Wednesday, February 28, 2007

Official: Renault to unveil production version of the Twingo plus an all new Concept car in Geneva

Now this is quite a surprise. Only a few months after the unveiling of the “supped up” Twingo concept at last year’s Paris Show, Renault up and announces that it will present the production version of the prototype along with an all new concept. Unfortunately, thats the only info they grace us with. Unless Renault is hiding a few asses under its sleeves and judging from the prototype, I suspect that the Twingo (sadly) wont be much of a surprise in terms of its design. -Continued: Click “Read More…” below to see the press release

PRESS RELEASE: RENAULT AT GENEVA MOTOR SHOW 2007

Renault will be unveiling a range of new models at this year’s Geneva Motor Show, including the eagerly-awaited production version of new Twingo, which is coming in right hand drive for the first time. It wouldn’t be Geneva without a Renault concept car, and this year is no different. However, no information on either of these cars will be available before the covers come off.

Sharing the limelight alongside Renault’s latest two creations will be several new additions, including the Clio Rip Curl, Clio Renaultsport 197 F1 Team R27, Scénic Conquest and Mégane Renaultsport dCi. Patrick Blain, Executive Vice President, Sales and Marketing, will be holding Renault’s Press conference on the stand at 11am CET on Tuesday 6th March.

Technorati: Renault+Twingo, Renault+Concept, Geneva+motor+Show, auto+news, car+news, automobile, cars, automotive, vehicles, Carscoop, blogs, 2007, pictures, images

Ascari A10 and KZ1R slot cars –These you can afford

Since we’ll have to dig real deep in our pockets for a real Ascari we’ll gladly settle for this 1:32 scale model for a fraction of the price. Banbury based supercar manufacturer has re-created the “slot car” so that race enthusiasts can enjoy the excitement in their own living room. The Ascari A10 and KZ1R GT3 race car models are compatible with the NINCO NDigital track system which races up to eight cars at a time. Available in over 25 countries at professional hobby stores, these babies will be the twinkle in every “future” Acsari owner’s eye. Posted by Dani

Technorati: Ascari, slot+cars, games, gadgets, auto+news, car+news, automobile, cars, automotive, vehicles, Carscoop, blogs, 2007, pictures, images

Official: John Cooper Works MINI Cooper S 192Hp to debut in Geneva

We just read at our pals over at Autoblog.com that MINI's getting ready to unveil the John Cooper Works version version so we decided to check it out and “voila”, here you have it: the 2008 JCW MINI Cooper S in its official glory. The JCW kit adds another 17Hp to the 175Hp 1.6-litre twin-scroll turbo engine thus pushing overall output to 192Hp while maximum torque is up by 10Nm (250Nm between 1.750 – 5.000 rmp vs 240 Nm between 1.600 – 5.000 rpm). When accelerating, torque is boosted briefly to 270 Nm (stock version: 260Nm).
BMW hasn’t announce any performance figures yet but they did come out with a base price for the JCW kit which can be fitted to any Cooper S version (along with a heap of other extras). In Germany it will cost
1689,80 EUR - 2.235 USD or 1.140 BP. We’ll have more on the JCW Cooper S later on. -Continued: Click “Read More…” below to see the 2nd image

Technorati: MINI+Cooper+S, John+Cooper+Works, Geneva+motor+Show, auto+news, car+news, automobile, cars, automotive, vehicles, Carscoop, blogs, 2007, pictures, images

Lotus 2-Eleven: 255Hp & 670kg Elise track version to debut at Geneva

For all you track-day wackos, Lotus will have a something special for you at this year’s Geneva Show which opens up in a few days: the 2-Eleven. As you’d expect from a company like Lotus, the Elise based, 2-Eleven takes on Colin Chapman's philosophy of 'Performance Through Lightweight”. Weighing in at just 670 kg (1,477 lbs, the 2-Eleven is powered by a supercharged version of the stock 4cylinder 1.8 VVTL-i Toyota engine that delivers 255Hp at 8.000 rpm and a torque figure of 242 Nm (179 lb/ft) at 7000 rpm. 0 to 100 km/h comes in 3.9 sec (0-60mph, 3.8 sec) while top speed is 250 km/h (155mph). -Continued: Click “Read More…” below to see a high-res image gallery & the press release

Production of the Lotus 2-Eleven is scheduled to start in April 2007 where it will be available in two versions - Road Going Version (UK Single Vehicle Approval) fitted with front and rear lights, exhaust catalyst, single plane rear wing etc. that will cost 41.095 BP and Track-Only Version with an enhanced aerodynamics package including high downforce single plane carbonfibre rear wing and a high downforce front splitter with a price tag of 39,995 BP. Outside the UK, the 2-Eleven will be only available as a track-only option costing 49,575 EUR (excluding tax). Pricing in Japan, South Africa and Lotus other international markets will be announced later on.





PRESS RELEASE: The Lotus 2-Eleven - Track Day Driving Just Got Serious

Exceptional Performance Coupled with High Levels Of Usability and Safety

Geneva, Switzerland (6th March 2007), Lotus Sport, the race car performance arm of Lotus Cars Ltd, today unveiled the new Lotus 2-Eleven. Launched at the 77th annual Geneva International Motor Show, the Lotus 2-Eleven is aimed at the true track day enthusiast, taking Colin Chapman's philosophy of 'Performance Through Lightweight' to its most extreme level yet.

Weighing in at just 670 kg (1,477 lbs) with 255 PS (252 bhp / 188kw) on tap courtesy of its supercharged and intercooled 1796 cc engine, the Lotus 2-Eleven boasts a power to weight ratio similar to that of a 1960's Formula One car. Designed with the most serious of track day enthusiasts in mind, the Lotus 2-Eleven offers race car levels of performance coupled with legendary Lotus Ride and Handling to deliver a truly outstanding track day car.

Said Mike Kimberley, Chief Executive Officer for Group Lotus plc:

"The Lotus 2-Eleven takes our core brand values to the extreme. It is the ultimate track day vehicle - not only phenomenally quick, but also very user-friendly. In short, the 2-Eleven delivers everything that the modern track day warrior and clubman racer demands, and more."

Production of the Lotus 2-Eleven is scheduled to commence in April 2007 at the award-winning and world-class Lotus manufacturing facility at Lotus Headquarters in Hethel, Norfolk, UK. The 2-Eleven build will be completed in dedicated Lotus Sport workshops and each vehicle will be given a Lotus Sport build plate.

The Lotus 2-Eleven is initially available in Launch Edition specification only, which boasts a dynamic and unique three-way Lotus Sport colour scheme complete with decal pack. The Launch Edition is available in two versions - Road Going Version (UK Single Vehicle Approval) fitted with front and rear lights, exhaust catalyst, single plane rear wing and other items to achieve compliance with UK road legal requirements and Track Only Version with an enhanced aerodynamics package including high downforce single plane carbon fibre rear wing, high downforce front splitter, brake lights and rear indicators and FIA approved driver's race seat.

The recommended selling price (incl UK VAT) of the Lotus 2-Eleven Launch Edition will be £39,995. In the UK, the SVA version (Single Vehicle Type Approval) which includes delivery, Pre Delivery Inspection, first service, number plates, first registration fee, valet, 12 months' Road Fund Licence, a full tank of fuel and SVA test costs an additional £1,100. The Lotus 2-Eleven is only available as a track-only option outside of the UK at EUR49,575 excluding local tax in mainland Europe. Pricing in Japan, South Africa and Lotus other international markets will be announced shortly.

THE LOTUS 2-ELEVEN IN MORE DETAIL

Engine

The supercharged and intercooled 1796 cc engine in the Lotus 2-Eleven has a maximum power output of 255 PS (252 bhp / 188 kw) at 8000 rpm and a torque figure of approximately 242 Nm (179 lb/ft) at 7000 rpm. This significant amount of extra power and torque now available together with the VVTL-i variable cam system ensures that there is a smooth and linear surge of power from low engine speeds all the way to the maximum 8000 rpm. The Roots-type Eaton M62 supercharger (with a sealed-for-life internal mechanism meaning that it does not require the use of the engine's oil) is run from the crankshaft and has an integral bypass valve for part load operation.

Four high capacity injectors and an up rated fuel pump add additional fuel under hard acceleration or high speed driving. An Accusump (engine oil accumulator unit) is included in the whole package as an oil reservoir back-up for extreme track use ensuring that, under those conditions, the engine oil pressure remains constant. Twin oil coolers complete the powertrain package.

Transmission

A sports-type clutch plate and heavy duty clutch cover transfer the engine power and torque to the lightweight aluminium C64 six-speed gearbox (with an aluminium casing) - with the same perfectly spaced ratios as the Exige S. An open type differential is fitted as standard. The Lotus switchable Traction Control System (LTCS) works through the engine, reducing power to maintain traction; it is active above 8 km/h (5 mph) and reacts much more quickly than many brake-based systems.

Chassis & Integral Safety Features

The Lotus 2-Eleven uses a unique high-sided variant of the Lotus Elise lightweight chassis structure featuring epoxy bonded aluminium alloy extrusions with modified Exige S based running gear. This strong and stiff package features a comprehensive safety system with a glass fibre reinforced composite front crash structure allied to a high sill chassis for side impact protection. Additional chassis safety features include an FIA compliant 6-point rollover structure with integral harness mounts and lightweight galvanized steel rear sub frame incorporating a further crushable structure.

Body

The Lotus 2-Eleven features all new ultra-lightweight (40 kg / 88lbs) composite bodywork featuring core-mat technology. All external panels are bolted on for ease of removal, maintenance and repair.

Wheels & Tyres

5-spoke lightweight forged black alloy wheels (front 7Jx16, rear 8J x 17) are shod with Lotus Sport specific Yokohama A048 R LTS tyres (front 195/50 R16, rear 225/45 R17), designed to maximise grip and achieve the exacting ride and handling targets set by Lotus.

Brakes

The brake system includes 288 mm cast iron cross drilled and ventilated discs, upgraded Pagid RS14 sports brake pads set into the brake calipers (aluminium alloy AP Racing 2-piston at the front and Brembo single sliding piston at the rear), high grade silicone brake fluid and stainless steel braided hoses. In addition, the proven Lotus track tuned servo-assisted four-channel ABS system enhances braking performance and minimises stopping distance without taking over from the skill of the driver.

Suspension

Fully independent suspension utilising unequal length wishbones; Öhlins 2-way adjustable dampers with coil over springs and Lotus Sport adjustable front anti-roll bar. A rear double shear track control arm brace is provided to cope with the expected kerb abuse during heavy track day driving, with unique steering arms and front upper wishbones to suit ultra-low ride height.

Performance

0-60 mph 3.8 secs (estimated)
0-100 km/h 3.9 secs (estimated)
0-100 mph (0-160 km/h) 9.1 secs (estimated)
Max Speed 155 mph (250 km/h)
Max Power 255 PS (252 bhp / 188 kw) at 8000 rpm
Max Torque 242 Nm (179 lb/ft) at 7000 rpm

Technorati: Lotus+2-Eleven, Track-day, Geneva+motor+Show, auto+news, car+news, automobile, cars, automotive, vehicles, Carscoop, blogs, 2007, pictures, images

Startech Jeep Compass – Power & visual upgrades

Brabus’s Chrsyler-Group tuning arm Startech, has presented a new customization program for Jeep’s compact SUV. In terms of performance, Startech offers the SD3 performance kit for the diesel model which elevates output from stock 140 hp / 103 kW to 180 hp / 132 kW. At the same time peak torque increases to 360 Nm between 1,750 and 2.500 rpm. As for visual upgrades, the Compass gets a new front fascia, rocker panels that serve as running boards, a sport exhaust system, 19 or 20’’ rims and lower ride height (by 30 mm). In the interior the Startech pack includes stainless-steel door sills, velour floor mats etc. -Continued: Click "Read More..." below to see more pictures & the press release




PRESS RELEASE: Exclusive STARTECH Accessories for the Jeep Compass

The Jeep Compass has arrived and in time for the market introduction of the new compact SUV. STARTECH already offers an exclusive customization program and powerful performance tuning for the turbodiesel model.

The STARTECH SD3 performance kit for the diesel model consists of an auxiliary module that modifies the engine electronics. With it maximum power output of grows from stock 140 hp / 103 kW to 180 hp / 132 kW. At the same time peak torque increases to 360 Nm between 1,750 and 2.500 rpm.

As an optimal complement to the STARTECH SD3 power kit there is the STARTECH sport exhausts system with a large oval chrome tailpipe on either side. The fully stainless-steel precise-fit exhaust is available for all engine variants of the Compass, and lends the Jeep a more thrilling exhaust note.

For customizing the exterior STARTECH offers a custom-tailored designer suit. In the front the Compass gets a new face with the STARTECH front fascia. Retaining the original mounting points means easy installation and optimal precise fit.

The sides of the five-door are refined by elegant STARTECH rocker panels that serve as running boards. The rear of the Jeep is modified with an element that attaches to the rear bumper. It features integrated cutouts for the STARTECH sport exhaust.

19- or 20-inch diameter instead of the 18-inch stock wheels' is the motto of the exclusive STARTECH tire/wheel combination for the Compass. The Monostar IV five-spoke wheels are silver polished and in dimension 8.5Jx19 with 255/40 R 19 tires or in size 9Jx20 with size 245/35 R 20 tires they fill out the wheel houses nicely.

STARTECH also offers progressive-rate springs that lower the ride height of the American SUV by some 30 millimeters. The lowered center of gravity gives the Jeep sportier and even safer handling characteristics.

STARTECH also adds exclusive and individual interior highlights. These include stainless-steel door sills with illuminated STARTECH logo, high-quality velour floor mats and the STARTECH Lifestyle interior upgrade package that gives the entire Compass cockpit a more elegant appearance.

Technorati: Jeep+Compass, Startech, Brabus, auto+news, car+news, automobile, cars, automotive, vehicles, autos, Carscoop, blogs, images, pictures, 2007

2008 Jaguar XJ saloon – Top cat receives its final facelift

About a year or so before Jag rolls off its all-new, non-retro looking XJ saloon, the Brits released a slightly facelifted version of the current model. Exterior-wise, the 2008 XK gets a refreshed front end which features a new, larger grille, redesigned front and rear bumpers, a subtle boot lip spoiler, new mirrors with integrated indicators and horizontal, wing mounted air vents reminiscent of the ones found in the XK. Subtle interior changes include new trim options and redesigned front seats that promise to add a few “mm’s” for the rear passenger knee space.

To be honest, all these cosmetic changes remind me of old movies starlets who don’t want to accept that they’re growing old so they keep on going to the plastic sergeant in an attempt to cover up the scares caused by time. The result however, scarcely justifies the efforts and money they’ve put into it and usually they just end up looking silly. -Continued: Click “Read More…” bellow for more pictures



Via: Autocar

Technorati: Jaguar+XJ, auto+news, car+news, automobile, cars, automotive, vehicles, autos, Carscoop, blogs, images, pictures, 2007

Tuesday, February 27, 2007

EuroNCAP: Bravo, Corolla & Legend achieve 5star occupant protection; CR-V & Outlander get 4stars


Fiat’s new Bravo along with Honda’s Legend and Toyota’s new 4door Corolla received a top 5 star crash rating in occupant safety according to the latest results from Euro NCAP. The other two models tested, the new Mitsubishi Outlander and the Honda CR-V managed a 4star rating in the same test. However, EuroNCAP noted in the fine print (see the pics) that the CR-V scored enough points for a 5star rating, it didn’t achieve the minimum number of points needed in fontal impact. -Continued: Click “Read More…” below


Technorati: EURONCAP, crash+tests, auto+news, car+news, automobile, cars, automotive, vehicles, Carscoop, blogs, 2007, pictures, images

Videos: Police vs Car & Police vs Motorcycle



During our “coffee-time break” we’ve made it a habit of skimming Youtube in search of weird, inmtresting or just plain stupid car or motorcycle related vids. Today we fell upon the above video that features a guy in a Toyota Celica who’s been cornered by the Police in the UK. We won’t spoil all the fun by telling you what happened but you’ll be surprised with his stamina. Talking about police chases, that reminded us of a video of a Volvo Police car chasing a motorcycle that we saw on our fellow bloggers at Motorpasion a couple of days ago. Although not so dramatic as the first vid, but after you see it you’ll agree that the cop was one lucky son of a gun…
-Continued: Click “Read More…” below to see the second video

Police vs Motorcycle -Via: Motorpasion


Technorati: Youtube, Video, Police, auto+news, car+news, automobile, cars, automotive, vehicles, Carscoop, blogs, 2007

Caterham celebrates Golden Jubilee with exclusive anniversary pack for the Seven

I haven’t had the luck to drive a Caterham, but from what I’ve read and been told by pals of mine who’ve taken a Seven for a spin, it’s a unique experience. As for the anniversary pack, not much to say as the “chosen” ones (since availability is limited to 50 units) will have the choice of two distinctive color schemes, a Platinum Silver Metallic paint with a Gold/Black anniversary twin-stripe and noseband, or the reversed scheme with Sapphire Black Metallic paint with Gold/Silver stripes. Caterham also throws in a signed copy of the book ‘The Magnificent 7’ and two VIP tickets for the celebrations at Caterham’s Golden Jubilee Race Weekend at Donington Park, 2-3 June 2007. The pack costs 1.957 BP (3.850 USD – 2.900 EUR). -Continued: Click “Read More…” below to see the official press release and more pics


PRESS RELEASE - CATERHAM CELEBRATES HALF A CENTURY WITH EXCLUSIVE ANNIVERSARY PACK

As part of its Golden Jubilee celebrations, the iconic Caterham Seven can now be purchased with an exclusive Anniversary options pack. Available only on Caterhams ordered during 2007 and limited to just 50 units, owners will have the choice of two distinctive color schemes, both featuring a striking gold motif.

The colour options are Platinum Silver Metallic paint with a Gold/Black anniversary twin-stripe and noseband, or the reversed scheme with Sapphire Black Metallic paint with Gold/Silver stripes. The limited edition Anniversary pack also includes gold ‘7’ grille, gold trimmed leather seats*, an individually numbered special edition certificate and dashboard plaque, plus bespoke gold wheel centres, 50th Anniversary decals and Union Jack badging.

In addition, buyers will receive a special signed copy of the newly updated book ‘The Magnificent 7’ by Chris Rees and two VIP tickets to join in the celebrations at Caterham’s Golden Jubilee Race Weekend at Donington Park, 2-3 June 2007.

In recognition of the 1957 launch of Colin Chapman’s original 7, the Anniversary Pack will cost just £1,957 including VAT. The Anniversary Pack is available to order now on the complete range of Caterham 7’s, including the new range of Ford Sigma engined cars. As well as adding the Anniversary Pack option to the range, every new car manufactured in 2007 will feature a special 50th Anniversary nosebadge and standard 12 months RAC cover.

Technorati: Caterham+Seven, auto+news, car+news, automobile, cars, automotive, vehicles, Carscoop, blogs, 2007, pictures, images

Tramontana – 710Hp Spanish supercar to make debut at the Geneva Show

Kinda sick of all those Gallardo’s, 911 Turbo's & F430’s? Want something that’ll undoubtedly draw attention upon you wherever you go? Well, if you think that the Ssangyong Rodius is a tad too extreme for your taste, Catalonian based Tramontana has something for you: a yet unnamed, F1 inspired supercar with a Biturbo V12 engine capable of delivering 542Hp to 710Hp (selectable).

Tramontana has already revealed several concept versions of the car here and there, but at this year's Geneva show, we're going to see the unique production version. And when we mean it’s unique, we mean it literally as in 2007 the Catalonians plan to produce just five units while in 2008 and 20909 they’re going to peak production at…12 units a year. Via: WindingRoad & Tramontana

Click “Read More…" below to see the official press release and a high-res image gallery




PRESS RELEASE: a.d.TRAMONTANA, presents its production model in the 77th Geneva International Motorshow 2007

Tramontana: half formula 1, half fighter.

First it was the idea, then the model, later the prototype and now, finally, the final genesis has come: the first Tramontana is already ready for its international presentation. Journalists of the whole world are going to meet in the Geneva Motor Show to see, touch and hear for the first time the Tramontana, the only exclusive sports car of Spanish manufacture.

That’s right. The Tramontana is already ready for its world debut next 8. March. A.d. TRAMONTANA, the Catalan company that has created it, after years of investigation and development presents the definitive version, and we are not in presence of just any vehicle: the Tramontana does not answer to the classic super-sports car, the best arguments of a formula 1 and a fighter have met together with an aesthetics inspired by the beauty of the
classic ones that marked a historical milestone.

The result? A car of a great technical precision, with a personalized design, 100 % handcrafted for a highly qualified team of professionals. Undoubtedly, a new kind of car for which still a name does not exist, since it represents a new step in the evolution of its specie.

It is enough to observe the aesthetics to realize its exclusivity, where conjugate retro elements, material of last generation like carbon and magnesium with traditional elements like wood, white gold or leather, without forgetting its high number of customizations. But if
we concentrate on the details, the idea still acquires more force.

Among the definitive solutions of the Tramontana, we find a new electronic system, with full silver wiring and a central engine V12 Biturbo capable of offering a power of 550 CV and 720 CV selectable.

Regarding safety, it is the only sports car of the market that incorporates a carbonfibre monocoque inspired by the design of a formula 1 and made with the same criteria, guaranteeing a high protection to its passengers. A monocoque with 8 deformable zones calculated for the absorption of the impact energy.

On the other hand, this monocoque contributes a lightness and maximum rigidity to the whole, factor that together with its suspension system, only on its market of double wishbones with pushrod and a great length of arms, improves the dynamical aptitudes of the vehicle.

All this elaborated with materials of last generation of aerospace technology like the steel to the cromolibdenium, magnesium and duraluminium.
All this is only a sample of what turns the Tramontana into a special car, a tailored jewel in order that its future owner can feel the best sensations, both urban and sports. A.d.TRAMONTANA has wanted to wait to the Geneva Motorshow to present the new development of the Tramontana.

In this manner, the Swiss city will become the scene which is going to approach the world to this new star of the exclusive super sports cars.

Technorati: Tramontana, Geneva+Motor+Show, auto+news, car+news, automobile, cars, automotive, vehicles, Carscoop, blogs, 2007, pictures, images

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