Tags: Industry

2013 BENTLEY GT SPEED: 202-MPH DROPTOP!

- Rabu, 02 Januari 2013 No Comments

Handcrafted luxury GT Speed is the world’s fastest four-seat convertible.

Bentley’s new open-top performance flagship - and the world’s fastest four-seat convertible - makes its international debut on January 14th at the North American International Auto Show, Detroit. The new GT Speed Convertible combines the sensory pleasures of top-down luxury touring with the shattering performance of a 616-horsepopwer twin-turbocharged 6.0-litre W12, while delivering a 15-percent improvement in fuel efficiency.

A close-ratio eight-speed transmission, uprated and lowered suspension and retuned steering account for the exhilarating acceleration and sharp, communicative handling without negatively impacting the ride and comfort of Bentley’s Continental convertible. Permanent all-wheel drive ensures optimum traction and power delivery whatever the road conditions.

The Continental GT Speed convertible shares its powertrain with its Bentley stable mate, the GT Speed coupé. The 616 horsepower twin-turbocharged, 48-valve, W12 engine powers the new convertible to 60 mph in 4.1 seconds and a top speed of 202 mph. It takes just 9.7 seconds to sprint from a standing start to 100 mph! Peak torque – an impressive 590 pound-feet – is reached at just 2000 rpm and maintains that level through to 5,000 rpm for effortless, refined performance at all times.

For more information about the 2013 GT Speed, check out

http://www.caranddriver.com/news/2013-bentley-continental-gt-speed-photos-and-info-news



For the latest from Bentley, please visit

http://www.bentleymotors.com/models/new_continental_gt_v8/

Tags: Industry

JAGUAR F-TYPE: DYNAMIC CHALLENGE!

- Sabtu, 15 Desember 2012 No Comments

Martin Brundle, Christian Danner and Justin Bell take F-TYPE prototypes to the max on road and track.


 Jaguar’s new F-TYPE has undergone its first dynamic challenge outside of Jaguar’s internal development program, following an invitation to three world-renowned drivers – Martin Brundle, Christian Danner and Justin Bell – to put both 380-horsepower V6 and 495-horsepower V8 prototypes to the test. In cold and challenging conditions at the UK’s Snetterton 300 circuit and on the surrounding Norfolk roads, the trio of international (UK, US & Germany) racing drivers and TV presenters experienced the F-TYPE’s outstanding performance.

“It’s been a fascinating day,” said Mike Cross, Jaguar’s Chief Engineer Vehicle Integrity, above with testers. “The entire F-TYPE development program has, from a vehicle development perspective, been focused on delivering a connected sports car driving experience. To witness three respected drivers take to the track and to hear their positive comments validate that our work has been successful.”

The camouflaged F-TYPE S and F-TYPE V8 S prototypes tested were fully representative of production specifications from a dynamic and powertrain perspective. The supercharged 380-horsepower F-TYPE S sprints from 0-60 mph in 4.8 seconds and has an electronically limited top speed of 171 mph. Also supercharged, the F-TYPE V8 S goes from 0-60 mph in 4.2 seconds and is electronically limited at186 mph. Both feature all-aluminum construction, Adaptive Dynamics suspension and an Active Exhaust system.



Check out this video, shot at the test session http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V74oAzBHcFw



For more information about the F-TYPE, please visit http://www.jaguarusa.com/models/f-type/overview/

Tags: Industry

MERCEDES-AMG SLS: BLACK & BAD!

- Jumat, 09 November 2012 No Comments

With apologies to Brian Johnson & AC/DC, the most powerful and extreme SLS yet is Back In Black!

Inspired by the SLS AMG GT3 racecar, the Mercedes-AMG Black Series 2014 SLS AMG boasts a fascinating mix of breathtaking design, outstanding driving dynamics and uncompromising lightweight construction. The fifth model in the Black Edition Series showcases AMG’s  “Lightweight Performance" strategy. With a curb weight of 3,417 pounds, the 2014 Black Series SLS AMG achieves a power/weight ratio of 5.49 pounds/horsepower. The AMG 6.3-liter V8 engine generates 622 horsepower at 7,400 rpm and 468 pound-feet of torque, propelling the most dynamic SLS ever to 60 mph in 3.5 seconds. Top speed is 196 mph!

The SLS AMG Black Series achieves a whole new level of performance with the coil-over AMG Adaptive Performance Suspension, AMG high-performance ceramic two-piece brake system and weight-optimized, forged AMG light-alloy wheels with new sport tires. Additional highlights include electronically controlled AMG rear-axle differential lock and the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission, featuring spectacular shift and response times. An available AMG Aerodynamics package delivers a further boost to the vehicle's handling and dynamics.

Every AMG 6.3-liter V8 engine is hand-built in the AMG factory in Affalterbach, in line with the philosophy, "one man, one engine." A black AMG engine badge bearing the signature of the engine builder, a hallmark of Black Series models, confirms its hand- built quality.

 The 663 horsepower Black Series SLS AMG boasts an additional 39 horsepower compared with 583 in the SLS AMG GT, due to the following enhancements:



• Increase in maximum engine speed from 7,200 to 8,000 rpm.



• Fully revised high-speed valve train with modified camshafts, adapted cam geometry and optimized bucket tappets featuring a special coating typically used on racecars.



• Modification of the intake air ducting: de-throttling and adaptation to match the new maximum engine speed.



• Adaptation of engine mapping and an increase in peak pressure.

The 2014 SLS AMG Black Series goes on-sale in the U.S. summer 2013. For more information about the latest luxury & performance vehicles from Mercedes-Benz, please visit http://www.mbusa.com/mercedes/index



For more photos & information about the Black series SLS AMG, check out CAR Magazine

http://www.carmagazine.co.uk/News/Search-Results/First-Official-Pictures/Mercedes-SLS-2012-first-pictures/

Tags: Industry

PORSCHE TWIN-TURBO CAYENNE: SUV SUPERCAR!

- Jumat, 12 Oktober 2012 No Comments

2013 Cayenne Turbo S packs a 550-horsepower punch and go-anywhere capability.

Porsche’s new Cayenne Turbo S SUV boasts 50 more horsepower than the Cayenne Turbo and employs advanced active chassis technologies. These technologies allow it to surpass the driving performance of many sports cars, while preserving the off-road capability, ride comfort and towing ability typical of the Cayenne.

In addition to an increase of 50 more horsepower than the Cayenne Turbo, the new Turbo S also benefits from increased engine torque, boosted from 516 to 553 pound-feet. The sprint from zero to 60 mph now takes just 4.3 seconds, and the Cayenne Turbo S accelerates to a top track speed of 175 mph.

Equipped for maximum dynamic performance, it incorporates chassis and drivetrain technologies that are optional on the Cayenne Turbo. More specifically, Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC), Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus (PTV Plus), and Power Steering Plus are now standard. Also standard is the air suspension with Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM), which is already standard on the Cayenne Turbo. PDCC allows for even flatter cornering, improving agility and ride comfort. PTV Plus adds torque vectoring at the rear wheels together with an electronically controlled rear differential lock, which improves traction and therefore offers more agility in a wide range of driving situations.



The exterior of the Cayenne Turbo S sports front air intakes and rear view mirror trim, painted in high-gloss black. The standard 21-inch 911 Turbo II wheels with colored Porsche badges are exclusively tailored for the Cayenne Turbo S with inside surfaces painted in high-gloss black.

Porsche designers created an exclusive two-tone leather interior package that is available in either Black/Carrera Red or Black/Luxor Beige combinations. They feature an exclusive combination of contrasting colors and pieces that are further accented by deviated stitching throughout. Front and rear seats feature the Porsche Crest embossed on the headrests while the roof is covered in Alcantara. The instrument panel, door, and center console trim showcase the standard Carbon Fiber interior package that further complements the exclusive interior.

For 2013, the new Cayenne Turbo S is also equipped with the Sport Chrono package as standard, which includes an analog and digital timer located at the center of the dashboard. The performance display informs the occupants about the total driving time, lap distance covered so far and individual lap times. It also shows latitudinal and longitudinal acceleration via the TFT display in the instrument cluster.



Scheduled to go on sale in the spring of 2013, the Cayenne Turbo S is priced from $146,000 not including a $975 destination charge. For more information about the latest vehicles from Porsche, please visit http://www.porsche.com/usa/

Tags: Industry

2013 JAGUAR F-TYPE: BEST IN (PARIS) SHOW!

- Sabtu, 06 Oktober 2012 No Comments

F-TYPE two-seat sports car debuts in Paris; wins Autoweek magazine’s prestigious Best In Show honors.

Built on a front-engine, lightweight aluminum architecture and rear-wheel drive, the F-TYPE is engineered to be a true high-performance sports car. It received the 2012 Autoweek Editors’ Choice Award for Best in Show at the Paris Motor Show last week. It goes on sale next summer.

“Sleek, sexy and powerful, the F-TYPE becomes a new halo for Jaguar,” Autoweek’s Digital Editor Andrew Stoy said. “Put the top down, fire up the engine - especially the supercharged 5.0-liter V8 - and all suddenly becomes right with the world. It's a car to covet for anyone with a love of sports cars.”

The new Jaguar F-TYPE represents a return to the company’s heart: a two-seat, convertible sports car focused on performance, agility and driver involvement. The F-TYPE is a continuation of a sporting bloodline that stretches back more than 75 years and encompasses some of the most beautiful, thrilling and desirable sports cars ever built. Joining the XK Convertible and Coupe models, the new F-TYPE provides Jaguar with a broader line of sports and GT models.

"The all-new Jaguar F-TYPE, our first new two-seat sports car in 50 years, is incredibly important as it returns Jaguar to the heart of the sports car market and creates a new emotional fulcrum for the entire brand,” said Andy Goss, President Jaguar Land Rover North America. “We appreciate Autoweek‘s recognition of the F-TYPE’s design and performance credentials and its significance for our company, and car enthusiasts everywhere.”

A front-engined, rear-wheel drive convertible, three F-TYPE models will be available, starting at $69,000. Powered respectively by 340 and 380 horsepower versions of Jaguar’s new 3.0-liter V6, above, supercharged engine and a new derivative of its supercharged 5.0-liter V8, each F-TYPE is engineered for pure dynamic driving reward and stunning performance.



Paris Motor Show photos by Marty Schorr



For information about Jaguar’s latest luxury performance vehicles, please visit http://www.jaguarusa.com/

Tags: Industry

MCLAREN P1 HYPERCAR: A NEW BENCHMARK?

- Jumat, 05 Oktober 2012 No Comments

If McLaren is successful with the P1, it will establish a new benchmark for world domination on racetracks and the road.

McLaren did it decades ago with the F1, establishing the marque as builder of the ultimate road machine, a supercar with no equals. Never legally exported to the United States, Federalized versions ended up in the hands of the usual suspects, wealthy collectors and those in search of top-of-the leader board bragging rights. I believe Ralph Lauren has two F1s!

While on vacation in Paris I attended the Paris Auto Show Press Preview and was mesmerized by the P1. The show car was 95 percent complete and McLaren was not talking about powertrain. While pricing is usually the last to be announced, it’s a safe bet that that it will sticker at over one million dollars. Considering that vintage F1s change hands now at over one million, the P1 may represent a good investment as well as the source of maximum bragging rights.

Photo by Marty Schorr.



For Joe Breeze’s story on the P1, please visit our friends at Classic Driver http://www.classicdriver.com/uk/magazine/3300.asp?id=16378




Tags: Industry

FORD POLICE INTERCEPTORS: TOP COP CARS!

- Senin, 24 September 2012 No Comments

Ford Police Interceptors proved victorious in Michigan State Police speed, acceleration and braking tests.

In testing at Grattan Raceway, Ford’s 3.5 V6 Police Interceptor outperformed the competition in 0-60 mph, 0-80 mph and 0-100 mph acceleration tests, as well as setting the fastest single lap and average lap times of the week. With EcoBoost V6 power and all-wheel-drive, the V6 Interceptor bested V8-engined competitors, posting the fastest single lap and best average lap times. These fast closing-in speeds are critical for first responders and law enforcement professionals. The 3.7-liter V6 all-wheel-drive sedan boasted the shortest stopping distance for all police vehicles tested!

“This year’s testing by the Michigan State Police once again proves Ford Police Interceptors are industry leaders, offering government agencies the desired combination of capability, technology and long-lasting value,” said Lisa Teed, Marketing manager for the Ford Police Interceptor program.

The Police Interceptor all-wheel-drive utility vehicle, above, posted top 0-60 mph and 0-80 mph acceleration times and also achieved the quickest lap times versus competing police utility vehicles. The Police Interceptor utility vehicle combines the performance of a sedan with a larger interior packaging for agencies that require increased cargo capacity.



Ford’s Police Interceptor engine strategy provides a V6 lineup that performs better than V8 engines of years past. The Police Interceptor sedan, below, is available with three powertrain options, allowing police to choose the engine that best meets their patrol requirements. The sedan is available with a standard 3.5-liter V6, the new 305 horsepower 3.7-liter V6 (also available in the utility model) and the high-performance 3.5-liter V6 EcoBoost – all paired with standard all-wheel-drive.

 A high-capacity six-speed automatic transmission is uniquely calibrated and adapts to “pursuit mode” when needed. All-wheel-drive is standard on both Interceptor sedan and utility vehicles to optimize handling and control, which is important to meet the needs of first responders.

 Ford Police Interceptor sedan and utility vehicles recently earned top safety ratings in National Highway Traffic Safety Administration New Car Assessment Program testing, which combines vehicle performance in frontal and side-impact crash tests and resistance to rollover. The Police Interceptor is engineered to pass 75-mph rear-end crash testing.



For more information about the latest from Ford, please visit

 http://www.ford.com/?searchid=35041264|1184031574|8702580397

Tags: Industry

JAGUAR & CITATION: MORE THAN ONE WAY TO FLY!

- Selasa, 18 September 2012 No Comments

Jaguar partners with the Citation Jet Pilots Association; shares the Jaguar high-performance driving experience with owner-pilots.

Jaguar has entered into a partnership with the Citation Jet Pilots, Owner-Pilot Association (CJP), an exclusive organization for owner-pilots of Citation jets. As the exclusive automotive partner and first non-aviation partner, Jaguar will support CJP events with drive opportunities and various initiatives.

“One of our goals at CJP is to engage our members with premier brands that have similar overall standards, along with entertaining experiential opportunities,” said Ed Turley, CJP President.

The annual CJP convention was held last week in Coeur d’Alene, ID and showcased programs and activities that educated and entertained Citation owner-pilots through networking and a series of speakers. David Pryor, Brand Vice President, Jaguar North America, is also a pilot and was one of the speakers. Approximately 100 Citation aircraft were on site, along with over three hundred members and guest attendees.



“Jaguar is excited to be the official vehicle partner for CJP,” said Pryor. “Working with an association accustomed to quality and technology-driven products makes this an ideal partnership. The high performance, speed and dynamic handling inherent both in jets and the current Jaguar model lineup, especially the 550-horsepower XKR-S, surely will resonate with the association’s membership.”

As part of the convention, Jaguar brought a custom driving experience to give members an opportunity to get behind the wheel of the company’s highest performance cars with professional drivers as personal coaches. Participants were encouraged to test the capabilities of the vehicle while learning about car control and safe performance driving, including handling, braking and acceleration, on a closed simulated driving course.



For more information about the latest Jaguar luxury-performance vehicles, please visit

 http://www.jaguarusa.com



To learn more about Citation jets, check out http://www.cessna.com/citation.html