Sunday, August 31, 2008
Spy shots: RR4 wearing even less camouflage
The RR4 -- the Rolls-Royce that asks that you "don't call me 'baby'" -- is slowly undressing, striptease-like, before its final reveal at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show. Previous spy shots hinted at rear suicide doors, or coach doors as Rolls-Royce refers to them, and now it is official: the hinges on the rear door are on the rear of the door. The car has plenty of Phatom-esque cues, and although it doesn't look anything like the initial sketch, it looks like it could be a very attractive proposition when it shows up for the big dance. Still no word on engines, but we have no doubt its output will be something along the lines of prodigious.
[Source: Global Motors]
Labels:
2008,
2009,
news,
Rolls-Royce,
sports cars
Spyker to build lightweight race-derived C8 LM 85
Take your exotic sports car and put it in a room with its racing counterpart. Put on some R&B, dim the lights and wait nine months. It's a winning formula that has worked for some of the world's best automakers and resulted in such stunning performance vehicles as the Ferrari 430 Scuderia, Lamborghini Gallardo Superleggera, Aston Martin DBS and Porsche 911 GT3 RS, to name just a few. Now Spyker is getting ready to cue up the Barry White with the upcoming LM 85.
Named for the starting position of the Spyker C8 GTR2 racer at Le Mans, the LM 85 will be the latest race-derived, hardcore exotic sportscar. It will be based on the short-wheelbase C8 Laviolette, but lightened and tightened. Power could be as high as 450 horses, while the suspension is expected to be stiffened and weight removed to get a 0-100 km/h (0-60 mph) figure near 3.8 seconds and top speed bumping the 300 km/h (186 mph) mark. Only a highly symbolic 24 examples are expected to be built in an effort to bring the niche Dutch automaker back from the brink.
[Source: Auto Motor und Sport and Motor Authority]
Labels:
motorsports,
news,
sports cars,
Spyker
Tanner tests his Top Gear skills on the Lambo Reventon
One-third of American Top Gear, Tanner Foust, spent a day in the Lamborghini Reventon, and here's his verdict: "Thumbs up big girl!" The fractional bit of additional horsepower didn't mean much to him, but he did say the brakes were more capable, and, surprise, the car is quite wide and people like to stare at it. After six hours on Italy's B-roads, that basically sums up his impressions. Since he didn't have too much to say in print, we really do hope he's saving the zingers for the show...
[Source: AutoFiends]
Labels:
2008,
Lamborghini,
news,
sports cars
KYMCO KIWI 100
KYMCO KIWI 100, look the great style isn't it, with red painted. it is a beautiful Kymco
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Yamaha Mio Vino Retro style
Yamaha Mio vino Fino Retro style, yes i call it retro style, just like another retro classic, this mio is like Vespa or Piaggiot,i believe all of retro mania will love the style.which color do you lke
Blogged with the Flock Browser
Labels:
YamahaMio Vino Retro style
Modifikasi Mesin Yamaha Mio
we Now have new article about Modifikasi mesin Yamaha Mio, The reasources coming from my friends and he want to share with us,he we are.the name is mio spek harian with 2006 year
you can bore up 58,5 then
-klep 28/24
-karbu PWL 26
-noken as 280 deg. make the simple exhaust system with easy flow knalpot
-big pulley LHK
-gear ratio 14/40
-per CVT LHK 2000 rpm
-CDI BRT dual band
aftre modification the compression began 16:1
the we use bahan bakar pertamax plus mio
-busi autolite jupiter
-koil kawasaki AR 125 ori jpn
-velg nouvo 16"
top speed after modificationwe have jarak 600 m speednya mentok 140/jam
my friend also has new one . here are
spek motor gw :
blok : eon 58,5 keramik
klep : 28/24
pen stroke: naik 2 mm
stang piston : titanium LHK 3,5 mm
camshaft: LHK 330 R10
karbu : sp 28
pulley : kitaco
ratio : 14/41 di pelek 14
kampas kopling : pantekan america
per cvt : LHK 2000 rpm
roller : 10 rata
belt :standart
knalpot : Dbs
Cdi : Brt hyperband
kompresi : 18:1
bahan bakar :pertamax plus
you can bore up 58,5 then
-klep 28/24
-karbu PWL 26
-noken as 280 deg. make the simple exhaust system with easy flow knalpot
-big pulley LHK
-gear ratio 14/40
-per CVT LHK 2000 rpm
-CDI BRT dual band
aftre modification the compression began 16:1
the we use bahan bakar pertamax plus mio
-busi autolite jupiter
-koil kawasaki AR 125 ori jpn
-velg nouvo 16"
top speed after modificationwe have jarak 600 m speednya mentok 140/jam
my friend also has new one . here are
spek motor gw :
blok : eon 58,5 keramik
klep : 28/24
pen stroke: naik 2 mm
stang piston : titanium LHK 3,5 mm
camshaft: LHK 330 R10
karbu : sp 28
pulley : kitaco
ratio : 14/41 di pelek 14
kampas kopling : pantekan america
per cvt : LHK 2000 rpm
roller : 10 rata
belt :standart
knalpot : Dbs
Cdi : Brt hyperband
kompresi : 18:1
bahan bakar :pertamax plus
Blogged with the Flock Browser
Labels:
kompresi
Gambar Mio Modifikasi Kontes
Here we come with new picture of Yamaha Mio Modifikasi, The New Trend Of modication Is Trend ekor Kolibri on Mio Like the picture here. .So who is behind the Kolibri trend Mio ? yeach he is A man who wins Paddocks siswo winoto, he is the master of wins paddocks
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Labels:
GambarMio Modifikasi Kontes
Saturday, August 30, 2008
SEAT Ibiza Cupra unveiled
In Europe, budget-minded pistonheads have a treasure trove of hot hatches to choose from, and SEAT will be adding another model to the mix later this year.
The Ibiza Cupra will be officially unveiled in Paris, but Seat has dropped the first few images and a handful of specs ahead of its official unveiling in the City of Light this October. The Cupra is packing a twin-turbocharged, 1.4-liter TSI four underhood, sending 178 hp to the front wheels through a seven-speed DSG gearbox. Traction control and ESP are part of the package, along with a stiffer suspension, 17-inch wheels and bolstered buckets. The exterior benefits from a new fascia incorporating massive grilles and tiny fog lamps, side skirts and a new rear bumper.
Prices and performance stats haven't been released yet, but the Renaultsport Clio 197 competitor should be priced around £16,000 when it hits dealers in Europe in December.
Friday, August 29, 2008
Viper ACR and Corvette ZR1 battle on the 'Ring
A couple months back, the bone-stock Corvette ZR1 put supercars everywhere on notice when it took on the famed Nurburgring and ran a Nissan GT-R-beating 7:26. The track-ready, fire breathing Viper ACR bested the Corvette's amazing effort by posting an incredible 7:22 lap time. Despite a four second difference in total track time, blogger Andi Baritchi slapped both track videos together (after 30 seconds of annoying scrolling text) to verify that the Viper ACR came out on top. Hit the jump to view the two fastest American-made, street legal, 600+ hp beasts as they tangle in a 'Ring battle for the ages. The video proves what we already knew, but it's still fun to see how two very different, yet very similar vehicles, handle the twists and turns of the Nurburgring.
Labels:
Comparison,
Corvette ZR1,
Dodge,
videos
Mid-engine Audi R3 to replace TT
Over the past week, CAR has donned its prognostication cap and tapped it's "internal sources" in an attempt to foretell Audi's future product plans. A few of stories have ranged from inane to insane, but one post seems entirely plausible and has blinded us with excitement.
Audi's mid-engine R4 was pronounced stillborn this past year, but with Volkswagen bringing its own midship concept to the Los Angeles Auto Show this November, Audi might revive plans its own version to market in the next five years. The new R3 would effectively replace the TT, providing a better business case for VAG to produce a mid-engine platform and silencing critics that have constantly complained that the TT is merely a tarted up Golf.
If the Volkswagen version is well received and given the green light, expect it to debut in 2013, with Audi's variant following shortly thereafter. In an attempt to keep from directly competing with the Porsche Boxster, Audi will exclusively offer the R3 with four-cylinder engines, including a 180 hp, 1.8-liter TFSI, 220 hp, 2.0-liter and a 280 hp, 2.0-liter on the S-line model. Diesels are also being considered, ranging from a 125 hp, 1.6.-liter to a 204 hp, 2.0-liter.
[Source: CAR]
Labels:
2012,
Audi,
news,
sports cars
Toyota unveils new Avensis
Toyota will use the upcoming Paris Motor Show in October to unveil its redesigned flagship model for Europe, the Avensis. Think of it as the old country's version of the Avalon. Though we only have a rear 3/4 shot to go by, the new Avensis looks considerably more chunky than the current model, with a short deck lid, large rear tail-lights, a strong shoulder line and some interesting concave surfacing above the side sills. We don't know much else, other than that it will be offered with more powerful and cleaner engines when it goes on sale in Europe around January.
Toyota also announced that it will be bringing out the production version of its iQ city car and the Urban Cruiser for the Paris show. The Urban Cruiser is basically a ruggedized, soft-roading version of the Scion xD, while the iQ is based on the concept of the same name that debuted at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 2007.
2009 Honda Civic Coupe revealed in brochure
Just last week we revealed official images and specifications for the updated 2009 Honda Civic in sedan and hybrid body styles. Lest you coupe fans feel left out, we've finally found information on Honda's newish two-door in DX, LX, EX/EX-L and Si levels from a PDF brochure and the brand's U.S. website. As with the sedan, the front and rear of the Civic Coupe see the most change, though it'll take a trained eye to spot the differences out back. The front grille, though, looks more aggressive and sports a new honeycomb pattern, and the lower bumper has been redesigned with new air intakes. We likey. Also of note are the new clear turn signal lenses. On the inside, the available navigation system flips down to reveal a slot-loading CD player and inputs for digital audio cards, whatever those are. There's also a new USB music interface in the center console so you can just plug a flash drive full of tunes into the dash. A 140-hp, 1.8-Liter i-VTEC® engine powers the standard coupe and offers up to 36 highway mpg. Honda hasn't released any of this information through its media website, and the consumer website still isn't showing any 2009 Si models, so expect the big H to release more information on its '09 coupes in the coming weeks.
Nissan Shiraz Concept
Design student Miguel Ángel Iranzo Sánchez created the vehicle you see above, and he describes it as "a mix between a[n] SUV and a sportscar infused with Nissan brand DNA." For his efforts, which took an entire summer, he won a scholarship to get his Masters in Car Design in Valencia, and -- put on your Price is Right voice for this -- a brand new car! A Nissan Note, to be exact.
Billed as 100-percent all-terrain, ecological, sporty, and Nissan, we admit it's interesting. The doors are gullwing, and the interior is terrific concept car simplicity.
Labels:
2008,
Concept Cars,
news,
nissan
RENNtech's Pikes Peak-inspired hybrid GLK
Of all the trucks that have proliferated into the Mercedes-Benz line-up, the GLK isn't exactly the most aggressive. But according to the latest reports, Mercedes is lining up an array of aftermarket tuners at the SEMA show to infuse what appears to be more than a little testosterone into the compact sport-ute.
First up to bat is RENNtech, the Florida-based company responsible, among other things, for the bringing the McLaren SLR 722 to America and actually getting it to produce 722 horsepower. RENNtech has taken inspiration from the Pikes Peak challenge – one of the most iconic and power-craven hill-climb events in the world – to create this hardcore GLK. Little is known in the way of details, but the vehicle is said to feature RENNtech's first performance hybrid drivetrain.
Brabus, Blvd Customs and Legendary Motorcars are also said to be preparing modified GLKs for SEMA, although Mercedes has not yet confirmed its participation in the show.
Microsoft getting into the car WiFi biz
The Internet has been invading every aspect of our lives, but until recently most of us have gone without a connection to the World Wide Web inside our cars. That's changing with third party companies and OEMs beginning to offer 3G WiFi solutions for automobiles, and Microsoft says it's working on an even better idea. The Seattle-based software giant is working with the Universities of Massachusetts and Washington to develop a more reliable WiFi experience that enables the reception of multiple signals simultaneously to cut back on choppy service.
Microsoft's WiFi solution would leverage fledgling municipal wireless infrastructures to bring the Internet to your car. The Ballmer boys are betting that WiFi services will spread like wildfire in the future, and its new technology will be able to utilize multiple signals at the same time to make in-car Internet as smooth as what you get at home. On the surface, in-car Internet sounds ridiculous, but think of all the iPhone-like apps that could make your life easier. Weather, navigation, information, show times, and even gaming for your passengers would be a click away. You could even read Autoblog in the parking lot while your spouse goes shopping.
[Source: Kicking Tires]
The anniversary of harley davidson 105th
The anniversary of harley davidson 105th
The Schedule On the way :
Kick-off Party
Wednesday, August 27
Start the 105th Celebration with a rumble on Wednesday, August 27! Join us at Highland Ave. & 35th at 4PM for a powerful performance from American Idol singer Amanda Overmyer. At 5:15PM, check out classic rockers Foghat. Then at 6PM, it's the official Kick-Off Ceremony followed by a continued show from Foghat. Finally, at 7:30PM, young British rock band The Crave will wrap up the night and kick-start the 105th Anniversary celebration weekend.
Summerfest Grounds
Friday, August 29 - Saturday, August 30
Two-days of live music, antique and custom bike shows, skilled riding competitions, and 105th Anniversary merchandise along with food and beverages from several of Milwaukee’s local restaurants.
Check out the Music Schedule
Main Street at the Lakefront
Thursday, August 28 - Sunday, August 31
Gather with other enthusiastic riders starting on Thursday, August 28, through Saturday, August 30, at Main Street at the Lakefront. You'll find loads of great food, live music, fireworks, and more.
105th Anniversary Parade
Saturday, August 30
The 105th Parade will be lead by the Parade of MDA Heroes, and will also include the H.O.G.® Chapter Parade of Flags, Police Motor Officers, Dealers and Enthusiasts from across the world. The route is 4.5 miles long. Parade viewing begins at 9AM at 35th Street and Wisconsin Avenue continuing east on Wisconsin Avenue, south on Milwaukee Street and then east on Erie Street to the Summerfest Grounds.
H-D / Buell 2009 Motorcycle Demo Rides
Thursday, August 28 - Saturday, August 30, 9AM - 4PM, State Fair Park
Now is the time to experience everything the 2009 motorcycles have to offer. Get intimate with models you’ve had your eye on, and take them for a spin. Nothing beats the feeling you get from riding a brand new motorcycle.
H-D Facility Activities
Wednesday, August 27 - Saturday, August 30, Times may vary, Highland Ave. & 35th
Take a closer look at what H-D is made of. Learn all about how the motorcycles we build get a soul of their own. Walk the floors where history has been made and rules broken. Experience where it all goes down.
H-D Facilities Schedule
Street Parties
Wednesday, August 27 - Sunday, August 31
In true festival form, the 105th Anniversary Celebration will include a variety of entertaining street parties throughout Milwaukee. Each night the roads will be closed off as they come to life with live music and classic Harley revelry.
Learn More
Harley-Davidson Museum™
Thursday, August 28 - Sunday, August 31
Museum tickets are sold out during the 105th Anniversary but can be purchased for the days prior to and after the four day celebration. However, during the 105th Celebration, the Museum grounds will be open for all to enjoy the river walk, free local bands and great food. Get a tattoo and play some lawn games while you're at it. Be sure to check out the personalized "Living the Legend™" Rivets and create your own to mark your trip to the 105th.
Free Entertainment at the Museum Ground Stage:
8/28 Blacktop Kings 11AM - In Black & White 1PM -
Southbound 3:30PM - Alex Wilson 6PM
8/29 Punch & Pie 11AM – DB Bryant 1PM - Big Bob & Loco Mojo 3PM
8/30 Robert Allen Jr. Trio with Paul Martin 11AM -
Ronnie Nyles 1PM - Marcos D'Cruze 3:30PM
8/31 T-Man & The Young Guns 11AM - H2-OH 1PM -
Charles Walker Blues Band 3PM - Speakeasy 6PM
So come and visit and enjoy
The Schedule On the way :
Kick-off Party
Wednesday, August 27
Start the 105th Celebration with a rumble on Wednesday, August 27! Join us at Highland Ave. & 35th at 4PM for a powerful performance from American Idol singer Amanda Overmyer. At 5:15PM, check out classic rockers Foghat. Then at 6PM, it's the official Kick-Off Ceremony followed by a continued show from Foghat. Finally, at 7:30PM, young British rock band The Crave will wrap up the night and kick-start the 105th Anniversary celebration weekend.
Summerfest Grounds
Friday, August 29 - Saturday, August 30
Two-days of live music, antique and custom bike shows, skilled riding competitions, and 105th Anniversary merchandise along with food and beverages from several of Milwaukee’s local restaurants.
Check out the Music Schedule
Main Street at the Lakefront
Thursday, August 28 - Sunday, August 31
Gather with other enthusiastic riders starting on Thursday, August 28, through Saturday, August 30, at Main Street at the Lakefront. You'll find loads of great food, live music, fireworks, and more.
105th Anniversary Parade
Saturday, August 30
The 105th Parade will be lead by the Parade of MDA Heroes, and will also include the H.O.G.® Chapter Parade of Flags, Police Motor Officers, Dealers and Enthusiasts from across the world. The route is 4.5 miles long. Parade viewing begins at 9AM at 35th Street and Wisconsin Avenue continuing east on Wisconsin Avenue, south on Milwaukee Street and then east on Erie Street to the Summerfest Grounds.
H-D / Buell 2009 Motorcycle Demo Rides
Thursday, August 28 - Saturday, August 30, 9AM - 4PM, State Fair Park
Now is the time to experience everything the 2009 motorcycles have to offer. Get intimate with models you’ve had your eye on, and take them for a spin. Nothing beats the feeling you get from riding a brand new motorcycle.
H-D Facility Activities
Wednesday, August 27 - Saturday, August 30, Times may vary, Highland Ave. & 35th
Take a closer look at what H-D is made of. Learn all about how the motorcycles we build get a soul of their own. Walk the floors where history has been made and rules broken. Experience where it all goes down.
H-D Facilities Schedule
Street Parties
Wednesday, August 27 - Sunday, August 31
In true festival form, the 105th Anniversary Celebration will include a variety of entertaining street parties throughout Milwaukee. Each night the roads will be closed off as they come to life with live music and classic Harley revelry.
Learn More
Harley-Davidson Museum™
Thursday, August 28 - Sunday, August 31
Museum tickets are sold out during the 105th Anniversary but can be purchased for the days prior to and after the four day celebration. However, during the 105th Celebration, the Museum grounds will be open for all to enjoy the river walk, free local bands and great food. Get a tattoo and play some lawn games while you're at it. Be sure to check out the personalized "Living the Legend™" Rivets and create your own to mark your trip to the 105th.
Free Entertainment at the Museum Ground Stage:
8/28 Blacktop Kings 11AM - In Black & White 1PM -
Southbound 3:30PM - Alex Wilson 6PM
8/29 Punch & Pie 11AM – DB Bryant 1PM - Big Bob & Loco Mojo 3PM
8/30 Robert Allen Jr. Trio with Paul Martin 11AM -
Ronnie Nyles 1PM - Marcos D'Cruze 3:30PM
8/31 T-Man & The Young Guns 11AM - H2-OH 1PM -
Charles Walker Blues Band 3PM - Speakeasy 6PM
So come and visit and enjoy
Blogged with the Flock Browser
Thursday, August 28, 2008
Audi A7 four-door hard-top cabrio
The blokes at Car say they've got the scoop on the upcoming Audi A7, including a convertible version depicted in the rendering on the right. Power is rumored to start with six cylinders across the range, with a V10-powered S7 and a twin-turbo V10-motivated RS7. Expect a variety of transmissions to be on offer as well, including manuals, automatics and dual-clutch gearboxes with six or seven speeds, along with the availability of quattro all-wheel-drive.
Sources have suggested that, while Audi will be behind the game in bringing a four-door coupe in the Mercedes CLS mold to market in the first half of 2010, it's got another segment-busting trick up it's sleeve: a full four-door convertible. And according to Car's illustrators, the A7 cabrio will feature a full retractable hard-top. Many have toyed with the idea of a four-door convertible – most recently arch-rival Mercedes with the Ocean Drive concept from Detroit '07 – but Audi may be the ones to actually revive the long-lost segment. Parade detail, here we come.
[Source: Car]
Labels:
2008,
Audi,
news,
sports cars
Hyundai recalls 65,000 Elantras for fuel pump problem
Some 2008-model Hyundai Elantras are being recalled due to fuel pumps that could lose pressure and decreasing engine performance. In Elantras with the 2.0-liter Beta engine, gasoline with ethanol added creates a buildup of film on the pump's electrical contacts. This can cause the engine to hesitate during starting or while running. The recall is voluntary, and if you have one of the affected cars, don't hesitate to contact your dealer.
[Source: Freep]
Bugatti releases new palette for Veyron Hermes
The announcement actually came from Monterey but was quickly overshadowed, somewhat ironically, by the unveiling of the open-top Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport and the subsequent auction of its first example for $3.2 million. The unveiling of the new-tint Hermes Veyrons took place at the Quail motorsport gathering on Monterey Peninsula, where Bugatti revealed the four new color schemes available: "indigo blue and vermilion", "indigo blue and lime green", " black and garance red" and "Prussian blue and blue jean". We're not entirely sure what all these colors are, exactly, and given that Bugatti put them in quotation marks, we're not sure they're sure, either. They undoubtedly would have shown us pictures of all four, but given that these 1.5 million euro hyper-exotics are made to order and available only from the end of the year, we doubt examples of each color option have been made yet. Of course they all come decked out with the H-pattern grille, eight-spoke wheels, lavish calfskin interior and exclusive package of specially-made Hermes luggage.
Labels:
2008,
Bugatti,
news,
sports cars
Lexus planning IS cabrio, lightweight IS-F
The higher-ups at Toyota may have decided to axe the replacement for the Lexus SC convertible, but don't get too used to the idea of a world without a wind-in-your-hair Lexus. Word has it they've given the green light to a convertible version of the current IS sedan. Of course, lopping off the doors and roof of a four-door is hardly unheard of, as that's just what Audi did to make the A4 convertible, but while that 'vert is set to be replaced by the A5 cabrio, Lexus is going the opposite direction.
The IS cabrio is tipped to come in 250 and 350 varieties, with Lexus reasoning that there'd be no market for an IS-F convertible. But fret not, as the same reports suggest that a lightweight IS-F sedan is on its way, again going the opposite way of the Germans as BMW just canceled the M3 CSL program. Things are about to get a whole lot busier at the Lexus plants in Tahara and Kyūshū.
Labels:
Lexus,
news,
sports cars
Renault's Persian-market, Maxima-based Safrane
The Persian Gulf is fast becoming a demanding market for luxury automobiles. So demanding, in fact, that some automakers have begun creating special models just for consumption there. Just days ago we brought you news that Rolls-Royce, having already shipped a golden Drophead Coupe for one special customer, was launching a limited edition Phantom saloon called the Peony edition.
This, however, is not a special Rolls-Royce. We won't list all the ways in which it isn't a Roller, but will save your time and ours by listing instead what it shares in common. It's a luxury sedan, and it's made specially to be engulfed by the Gulf market. That's about it. The Safrane nameplate was previously used for Renault's lackluster flagship sedan, replaced by the reviled Vel Satis in 2000. So what is this exactly that has revived the name? A rebadged Samsung SM5, essentially. That vehicle is produced in an 80.1% Renault-owned joint venture in South Korea. If you're noticing some similarities with our own Nissan Maxima, you've got a keen eye, as it shares its platform with the last-gen Maxima as well as the Nissan Teana (itself available only in the Asian market).
Kimi Raikkonen
Kimi Raikkonen has dismissed suggestions he is suffering from flagging motivation, insisting he remains determined to fight back in the championship battle.
The world champion’s recent inconsistent form has provoked criticism from both the media and some paddock observers, while speculation persists that the 28-year-old is considering retirement at the end of his Ferrari contract in 2009.
Last Sunday’s European Grand Prix prompted further questions about the Finn’s performances after he was again comprehensively outperformed by team-mate Felipe Massa and knocked a mechanic over in the pit lane during his final fuel stop – before an engine failure compounded his misery.
But despite falling 13 points adrift of championship leader Lewis Hamilton in the drivers’ standings, Raikkonen is adamant he has both the necessary time and desire to remain in the title hunt.
“We knew we had to take a risk for Valencia and we did not finish the race,” he told his official website.
“It’s a shame, but it’s useless to grieve for that.
“One third of the season is still left and it’s enough to fight back.
“If somebody has doubts concerning my motivation, let them doubt.
“One thing I can say is that right now I am more motivated than ever.”
While keen to move on from his disappointing Valencia weekend, Raikkonen – who qualified with three laps more fuel than pole-sitter Massa – did concede he and the team probably got his strategy wrong given his poor recent qualifying form.
“The Friday practice was good – I had a good feeling in the car,” he said.
“But Saturday was a little bit cooler and we struggled again in qualifying.
“We should have been more aggressive.
“Obviously there has been a lot of talk about my qualifying problems.
“But in Hungary I just went wide on my last lap of Q3. Without that we would easily have been third. Then we got the fourth place and after that I knew the race would be very difficult again.”
He now hopes that next week’s Belgian Grand Prix at Spa-Francorchamps, a venue where he is chasing a fourth consecutive victory at, is the place to start his title fightback.
“I love that circuit, and obviously, I would love to race there for the whole year long,” he said.
“It’s the best of all the circuits and hopefully we finally get the car working the way I want it to work.
“We go to Spa to win again.”
The world champion’s recent inconsistent form has provoked criticism from both the media and some paddock observers, while speculation persists that the 28-year-old is considering retirement at the end of his Ferrari contract in 2009.
Last Sunday’s European Grand Prix prompted further questions about the Finn’s performances after he was again comprehensively outperformed by team-mate Felipe Massa and knocked a mechanic over in the pit lane during his final fuel stop – before an engine failure compounded his misery.
But despite falling 13 points adrift of championship leader Lewis Hamilton in the drivers’ standings, Raikkonen is adamant he has both the necessary time and desire to remain in the title hunt.
“We knew we had to take a risk for Valencia and we did not finish the race,” he told his official website.
“It’s a shame, but it’s useless to grieve for that.
“One third of the season is still left and it’s enough to fight back.
“If somebody has doubts concerning my motivation, let them doubt.
“One thing I can say is that right now I am more motivated than ever.”
While keen to move on from his disappointing Valencia weekend, Raikkonen – who qualified with three laps more fuel than pole-sitter Massa – did concede he and the team probably got his strategy wrong given his poor recent qualifying form.
“The Friday practice was good – I had a good feeling in the car,” he said.
“But Saturday was a little bit cooler and we struggled again in qualifying.
“We should have been more aggressive.
“Obviously there has been a lot of talk about my qualifying problems.
“But in Hungary I just went wide on my last lap of Q3. Without that we would easily have been third. Then we got the fourth place and after that I knew the race would be very difficult again.”
He now hopes that next week’s Belgian Grand Prix at Spa-Francorchamps, a venue where he is chasing a fourth consecutive victory at, is the place to start his title fightback.
“I love that circuit, and obviously, I would love to race there for the whole year long,” he said.
“It’s the best of all the circuits and hopefully we finally get the car working the way I want it to work.
“We go to Spa to win again.”
Blogged with the Flock Browser
Modern automotive
Modern automotive engineering is a branch of vehicle engineering, incorporating elements of mechanical, electrical, electronic, software and safety engineering as applied to the design, manufacture and operation of motorcycles, automobiles, buses and trucks and their respective engineering subsystems.
Contents
* 1 Fields
* 2 Product Engineering
* 3 Development Engineer
* 4 Manufacturing Engineering
* 5 Other automotive engineering roles
* 6 See also
* 7 References
Automotive engineers are involved in almost every aspect of designing cars and trucks, from the initial concepts right through to manufacturing them.
Broadly speaking automotive engineers are separated into three main streams: product engineering, development engineering and manufacturing engineering.
* Product engineer (also called design engineer), that would design components/systems (i.e brake engineer and battery engineer). This engineer designs and test a part, seeing that it meets all its requirements (i.e. the shock), performs as required, material meets desired durability and so on.
* Development engineer, that engineers the attributes of the automobile. This engineer may provide to the design engineer what spring rate he/she requires to provide the "ride" characteristics required for the automobile to perform as desired, etc.
* Manufacturing engineer, determines how to make it.
In Toyota, for example, manufacturing engineering is regarded as a more prestigious career path than designing and developing the cars.
Product Engineering
Some of the engineering attributes/disciplines that are of importance to the automotive engineer:
Safety Engineering: Safety Engineering is the assessment of various crash scenarios and their impact on the vehicle occupants. These are tested against very stringent governmental regulations. Some of these requirements include: Seat belt and air bag functionality. Front and side crash worthiness. Resistance to rollover. Assessments are done with various methods and tools: Computer crash simulation, crash test dummies, partial system sled and full vehicle crashes.
Fuel Economy/Emissions: Fuel economy is the measured fuel efficiency of the vehicle in miles per gallon or litres per 100 kilometres. Emissions testing the measurement of the vehicles emissions: hydrocarbons, nitrogen oxides (NOx), carbon monoxide (CO), carbon dioxide (CO2), and evaporative emissions.
Vehicle Dynamics: Vehicle dynamics is the vehicles response of the following attributes: ride, handling, steering, braking, and traction. Design of the chassis systems of suspension, steering, braking, structure (frame), wheels and tires, and traction control are highly leveraged by the Vehicle Dynamics engineer to deliver the Vehicle Dynamics qualities desired.
NVH Engineering (Noise, Vibration, and Harshness): NVH is the customer's impression both tactile (feel) and audible (hear) feedback from the vehicle. While sound can be interpreted as a rattle, squeal, or hoot, a tactile response can be seat vibration, or a buzz in the steering wheel. This feedback is generated by components either rubbing, vibrating or rotating. NVH response can be classified in various ways: powertrain NVH, road noise, wind noise, component noise, and squeak and rattle. Note, there are both good and bad NVH qualities. The NVH engineer works to either eliminate bad NVH, or change the “bad NVH” to good (i.e., exhaust tones).
Performance: Performance is the driver’s perception of the vehicle's power and pickup. This is influenced by vehicle acceleration, sound of the engine, accelerator pedal feel, and shift quality. Performance is perceived in various ways: wide-open-throttle (WOT) acceleration, 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) -launch performance, or highway passing power.
Shift Quality: Shift Quality is the driver’s perception of the vehicle to an automatic transmission banana event. This is influenced by the powertrain (engine, transmission), and the vehicle (driveline, suspension, etc). Shift feel is both a tactile (feel) and audible (hear) response of the vehicle. Shift Quality is experienced as various events: Transmission shifts are felt as an upshift at acceleration (1-2), or a downshift maneuver in passing (4-2). Shift engagements of the vehicle are also evaluated, as in Park to Reverse, etc.
Durability / Corrosion Engineering: Durability and Corrosion engineering is the evaluation testing of a vehicle for its useful life. This includes mileage accumulation, severe driving conditions, and corrosive salt baths.
Package / Ergonomics Engineering: Package Engineering is a discipline that designs/analyzes the occupant accommodations (seat roominess), ingress/egress to the vehicle, and the driver’s field of vision (gauges and windows). The Package Engineer is also responsible for other areas of the vehicle like the engine compartment, and the component to component placement. Ergonomics is the discipline that assesses the occupant's access to the steering wheel, pedals, and other driver/passenger controls.
Climate Control: Climate Control is the customer’s impression of the cabin environment and level of comfort related to the temperature and humidity. From the windshield defrosting, to the heating and cooling capacity, all vehicle seating positions are evaluated to a certain level of comfort.
Driveability: Driveability is the vehicle’s response to general driving conditions. Cold starts and stalls, rpm dips, idle response, launch hesitations and stumbles, and performance levels.
Cost: The cost of a vehicle program is typically split into the effect on the variable cost of the vehicle, and the up-front tooling and fixed costs associated with developing the vehicle. There are also costs associated with warranty reductions, and marketing.
Program timing: To some extent programs are timed with respect to the market, and also to the production schedules of the assembly plants. Any new part in the design must support the development and manufacturing schedule of the model.
Assembly Feasibility: It is easy to design a module that is hard to assemble, either resulting in damaged units, or poor tolerances. The skilled product development engineer works with the assembly/manufacturing engineers so that the resulting design is easy and cheap to make and assemble, as well as delivering appropriate functionality and appearance.
Development Engineer
A Development Engineer is a job function within Automotive Engineering, in which the development engineer has the responsibility for coordinating delivery of the engineering attributes of a complete automobile (bus, car, truck, van, SUV, etc.) as dictated by the automobile manufacturer, governmental regulations, and the customer who buys the product.
Much like the Systems Engineer, the Development Engineer is concerned with the interactions of all systems in the complete automobile. While there are multiple components and systems in an automobile that have to function as designed, they must also work in harmony with the complete automobile. As an example, the brake system's main function is to provide braking functionality to the automobile. Along with this, it must also provide an acceptable level of: pedal feel (spongy, stiff), brake system “noise” (squeal, shudder, etc), and interaction with the ABS (anti-lock braking system).
Another aspect of the development engineer's job is a trade-off process required to deliver all the automobile attributes at a certain acceptable level. An example of this is the trade-off between engine performance and fuel economy. While some customers are looking for maximum power from their engine, the automobile is still required to deliver an acceptable level of fuel economy. From the engine's perspective, these are opposing requirements. Engine performance is looking for maximum displacement (bigger, more power), while fuel economy is looking for a smaller displacement engine (ex: 1.4 L vs. 5.4 L). The engine size, though is not the only contributing factor to fuel economy and automobile performance. Other attributes include: automobile weight, aerodynamic drag, transmission gearing, emission control devices, and tires.
The Development Engineer is also responsible for organising automobile level testing, validation, and certification. Components and systems are designed and tested individually by the Product Engineer. The final evaluation though, has to be conducted at the automobile level to evaluate system to system interactions. As an example, the audio system (radio) needs to be evaluated at the automobile level. Interaction with other electronic components can cause interference. Heat dissipation of the system and ergonomic placement of the controls need to be evaluated. Sound quality in all seating positions needs to be provided at acceptable levels.
Manufacturing Engineering
Manufacturing Engineers at automotive companies are involved in a wide array of manufacturing activities. They plan and engineer the assembly of whole vehicles as well as the individual parts that go into the vehicles. Design and layout of equipment and people, machine rates and line rates, specification of automation equipment, and manufacturing safety procedures are all some of the jobs that Manufacturing Engineers do.
Assembly plants build vehicles from parts they receive...they rarely build parts themselves. Manufacturing engineers at assembly plants plan out the body shop, engine and transmission placement, and the trim and chassis area of the final assembly. Seats, radios, interior trim panels, pick-up bedliners and wheels are examples of parts that need to be manufactured for a vehicle and whose creation would be overseen by an Automotive Manufacturing Engineer. While body panels, usually stamped sheet metal, have typically remained within the OEM, the general trend for all other parts is for them to be bought from outside suppliers. Most vehicles have greater than 60% supplier content (The Toyota Product Development System, Morgan and Liker)
The automotive industry has its own culture that Automotive Manufacturing Engineers need to know to effectively operate. The Automotive Industry Action Group (AIAG), a consortium composed of hundreds of participating companies, have established rules and procedures that ensure parts meet strict quality levels. An Automotive Manufacturing Engineer typically works with statistics and process controls, validating that the process that produces parts will always produce those parts with quality. They also search for ways to continuously improve the process between product upgrades.
Other automotive engineering roles
There are also other automotive engineers:
* The aerodynamics engineers will often give guidance to the styling studio so that the shapes they design are aerodynamic, as well as attractive.
* Body engineers will also let the studio know if it is feasible to make the panels for their designs.
* Quality engineer, logistics/transportation engineer, environmental engineer, performance engineer, durability engineer, reliability engineer, etc...
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Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Ferrari Monza concept too complex for puny humans
It appears that after seeing a number of its finest works crashed by errant drivers, Ferrari should consider making something like this. It's called the Monza, and it's part car, part motorcycle, part flying wing, and all anime.
Independently designed by Iman Maghsoudi, the Monza, whose name recalls historic Ferraris of yore and the race track that hosts the Italian Grand Prix, can go 125 miles per hour. But because humans cannot muster "sufficient concentration" to keep it on the ground and upright, computers take over. They change the angles of the canards over the front wheels and make sure the Monza doesn't go airborne in violent gusts. This study in advanced aerodynamics appears to be the road-going equivalent of an F-16, which seems to be a rather complicated way to go speeds that aren't considered that fast anymore. But hey, it's a Ferrari, it's red, no one else has one, and if we got the chance we'd drive it, too.
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Chrysler may sell Dodge Viper rather than kill it
The Dodge Viper has been Chrysler's halo car since it was introduced back in 1992, but times are tough. Faced with the fact that it might not be able to continue making the brutish sports car, the Auburn Hills-based automaker is reportedly considering doing something that's never been done before by a domestic automaker (as for as we know): selling the Viper's future to a third party. Automotive News quotes Chrysler CEO Bob Nardelli saying, "We have been approached by third parties who are interested in exploring future possibilities for Viper." Nardelli claims that whatever happens, his company will work to make sure the best interests of Viper fanboys are served and that Chrysler would continue to offer "operational and financial" support for the car if a transaction takes place. We're honestly a little stunned that Chrysler would consider such a drastic action, though if it means the Viper won't be sacrificed at the altar of economic woes, we're all for it. On the other hand, how does one separate Dodge from the Viper? Can you imagine Ford selling the Mustang to ROUSH or GM selling the Corvette to Lingenfelter? Chrysler has not identified any of the Viper's suitors, so rather than a familiar tuning house, it could also be a conglomerate of investors or another automaker. Is a Viper sold by another brand still a Viper?
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McLaren P11 supercar goes back to the drawing board... in two months
The McLaren P11 will still be powered by a 6.2-liter Mercedes AMG unit, but nobody knows yet what the car that goes around the engine is going to look like. Frank Stephenson, recently of Fiat fame, has been given instructions to completely redesign the car when he starts at McLaren. However, he can't take up the position at McLaren until he finishes his "gardening leave," a mandatory vacation between sensitive jobs that aims to prevent employees from taking their inside knowledge with them.
McLaren says that the car won't look anything like the sketches that made the rounds last year. That's not such a bad thing -- while a good looking car, the sketches were uninspiring and a bit derivative. We expect that the man who has had a hand in everything from the BMW X5 and MINI to the Ferrari F430, Maserati Quattroporte and MC12 probably has a few good ideas left lying around. Unfortunately, the arrival of the P11 has been pushed back a year due to the redesign, to probably mid-to-late 2010.
[Source: Autocar]
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2010,
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BMW cancels development of E92 M3 CSL
There were around 1,400 examples of the BMW e46 M3 CSL built, and by all accounts they were exceptionally well received. However, according to Ludwig Willisch, the boss of the automaker's M division, the current e92 M3 won't get the same treatment. He – or perhaps the accountants – feel that "based on current numbers, there is most likely insufficient demand for the M3 CSL."
If a current scorching version of the e92 were to exist, it would have been bumped by anywhere from 36 to 56 horsepower, shed 200 pounds or more, worn some different tires and a set of bigger lungs. In light of the possible volume, though, which would be small, BMW – or again, its accountants – would rather focus on the X6 and X5 for now.
[Source: Car]
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2008,
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Audi develops R8 GT3 racer
The courtship between Audi and GT3-class racing teams has officially begun with the automaker's announcement that it has developed a GT3 version of the R8 sports car dubbed "R16" internally by its project overlords at Audi Sport . The rear-drive racer (GT3 regulations prohibit AWD) features a six-speed sequential gearbox, mostly production-spec suspension components, plus an updated front end and a large rear wing designed to keep it planted to the tarmac. No additional tech specs have been revealed at this time. Factory driver Frank Biela was at the wheel for the prototype's roll-out, and customer deliveries are expected to take place next fall. Look for the car to see wheel-to-wheel action against the likes of the Aston Martin DBRS9 and Jaguar XKR GT3 during the 2009 European racing season.
[Source: Audi]
PRESS RELEASE:
Audi develops race version of the R8
* Customer sport programme with the mid-engine sportscar
* First races planned for 2009 season
* Factory driver Frank Biela completes roll-out
Ingolstadt – For the first time, Audi Sport will offer a racing sports car specifically developed for customer use in the form of the powerful 500 hp plus GT3 version of the Audi R8 which will be available from autumn 2009. The logistics and factory space required for the AUDI AG customer programme will be created over the next few months in Ingolstadt, Neckarsulm and Györ.
"The R8 is the first production Audi bearing the name and genes of a successful racing sportscar and is therefore an excellent base from which to build up our first big customer sport programme," explains Head of Audi Motorsport Dr Wolfgang Ullrich. "Ever since the R8 was unveiled we've been inundated with enquiries about a race version. With the Audi R8 we will offer customers a racing sportscar equipped with high-calibre technology and the typical Audi qualities, but which is nevertheless easy to handle."
The Audi R8 conforms to the production-based GT3 regulations allowing the car to be fielded in numerous national and international race series.
Because the GT3 regulations prohibit the use of four-wheel drive the Audi R8 comes with the typical GT rear-wheel drive. The power is transmitted via a newly developed six-speed sequential sports gearbox. The suspension uses almost exclusively components from the production line. A comprehensive list of safety equipment guarantees the highest-level of passive safety. A modified front end and a large rear-wing generate the required downforce for the race track.
The Audi R8, which bears the project name "R16" within Audi Sport, was developed under the direction of Audi Sport. Mid August, the first prototype successfully completed a roll-out in the hands of Audi factory driver Frank Biela.
The first test races in various European racing series are scheduled for the 2009 season. Delivery to the customers is planned from the autumn of this coming year.
The customer cars are manufactured together by Audi Sport and the quattro GmbH, which is also responsible for production of the Audi R8 street version, and Audi Hungaria Motor Kft. (Györ).
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2009,
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Tuesday, August 26, 2008
Moscow Motor Show World Premiere
Video with commercial spots from autopress.tv with world premiere to Moscow Motor Show 2008: Mazda Kazamai, Mazda CX-9, Mitsubishi Pajero Sport SUV, Renault Symbol, Skoda Superb, new Citroen C4...
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videos
Ferrari to offer California with manual, HGTC handling pack
Some of the more hard-core tifosi have been whining that Ferrari has gone soft with the new California. It's pretty hard to justify that a car able to hit 60 mph in the three-second range is soft, but so be it. The nay-sayers point to the inclusion of a folding hard-top as a sign that Ferrari has grown more concerned with pleasing its poseur clientele than developing genuine performance vehicles. Never mind that the innovative rapid-deployment roof, according to Ferrari, actually weighs 5kg less than an equivalent soft-top and still only takes 14 seconds to raise or lower.
However, Maranello has not finished development of the California and intends to pacify those malcontents with some new features. For starters, Ferrari says that about 10% of its customers still demand a manual transmission, and so they will have one ready for the California by the time it actually goes on sale about half a year from now. Around the same time, Ferrari will also unveil a new HGTC handling package, like those offered for the 612 Scaglietti and the previous 575 M Maranello, to tighten up the California's suspension. A new set of lightweight wheels is also in the works, anticipated to shave some 10-12kg off of the unsprung weight. A 430 Scuderia it is not – that's why Ferrari makes both – but don't mistake the California for a lazy boulevard cruiser.
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2009,
Ferrari,
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Faster than an M5: First Cadillac CTS-V performance test published
It's been over 60 years since the Americans have so thoroughly trounced the Germans, but Inside Line has the numbers to prove it. The Edmunds news service had a chance to take the new Cadillac CTS-V (which we're driving in upstart New York as we speak) and its supercharged V8 for a spin around GM's Milford proving grounds and brought along its testing gear. The resulting bombardment ought to have the Germans thoroughly embarrassed and rebuilding for decades to come.
The CTS-V ran the quarter-mile in a scant 12.5 seconds, besting the 12.7 it takes for either the BMW M5 or the Mercedes E63 AMG. Getting back to a standstill was another hit to the Bimmer and the Benz, with the Caddy stopping from 60-0 mph in 109 feet – five feet less than it takes the M5 and six shorter than the AMG. And if you're thinking that brakes and power are easy to upgrade and that the Cadillac couldn't possibly best the Germans on the handling course, think again: the CTS-V ran the slalom at 71.1 mph, while the M5 and E63 ran it in 68.5 and 65 mph respectively.
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Cadillac,
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Fast and Furious 4 trailer debuts
Could it be? Could the fourth installment of The Fast and the Furious be... as good (we use that word loosely) as the first movie? Perhaps even good enough to make us forget the installments that followed, both of which tried to shoot poison darts through our eyes and into our brains? Too early to make predictions, but for now we can certainly enjoy the trailer, which is high on action and light on dialogue -- just like we like our action films. And unlike some other action trailers, the stunts will get your blood going but don't require you to believe that Jason Statham should be shooting laser beams out of his eyes. Follow the jump for the video and The Return of the Vin.
Fast & Furious
Fast & Furious
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videos
Mazda Kazamai concept officially unveiled
Mazda pulled out all the awkwardly executed stops for the reveal of the Kazamai concept, including four sets of dancers, guys in neon-pink shorts on roller skates and a 40-man Russian singing troop in Soviet-style dress. We couldn't make this stuff up if we tried, but what better way to kick off our coverage of the Moscow International Auto Salon.
Despite the strange theatrics, the Kazamai is one of our favorite Nagare-themed concepts since the Furai and Kabura. Then again, we're suckers for two-door crossovers. The Kazamai blends the "flow" theme we've seen on several other concepts with a more aerodynamic body and a slightly toned-down demeanor. Could this be a hint at the future of the CX-7? Don't count it out. We'll take it without the extra doors and packing the MS3's drivetrain – with all-wheel-drive.
Labels:
Concept Cars,
Mazda,
news
Monday, August 25, 2008
Mahindra delays launch in U.S. to late 2009
Truck shoppers hoping to grab a Mahindra pickup early next year are gonna have to wait a little longer. It seems the challenges of bringing an India-made vehicle to the U.S. are difficult, and the vehicles now won't go on sale in the U.S. before the fourth quarter of 2009.
Even though 324 dealers have signed up to sell the truck, few of them have actually built the needed facilities. That's not enough to keep Georgia-based Global Vehicles from going ahead with their plans to begin U.S. sales. But GV's CEO John Perez recenly spoke to Mahindra's global managing director Anand Mahindra who, according to Automotive News, said that no truck with his family's name on it was going to fail in the U.S. Mr. Mahindra plans to run a fleet of his company's vehicles over 3.2 million miles of U.S. roads before he'll be approve the trucks for sale here.
The plan is for the trucks to utilize a 4-cylinder diesel engine not yet approved by the EPA. But Perez says he has no fear their January application will have any trouble getting blessed.
While the trucks are getting some U.S. experience, Global Vehicles will continue to sign up new dealers, and hopes to have 450 by the end of 2009. The importer has a sales goal of 50,000 vehicles a year, though Mahindra says it could produce as many as 400,000 U.S.-bound trucks if demand is there. And if Mahindra's promise of 30 mpg holds true, there could be huge demand. If things go well, look for a diesel-powered Mahindra SUV to follow.
Coming to America: Street legal KTM X-Bow
Although KTM has been making motorcycles since 1934, it's new to the car business. Evidently, no one told them that if you're going to go back on something you said in the auto business, it's supposed to be really disappointing. Instead, KTM has announced its intention to bring the X-Bow track car to the United States and make it street-legal to boot, despite previously saying that the X-Bow would only be sold in Europe and Asia and that it would be confined to the track.
The announcement was made by KTM sales and marketing chief Hubert Trunkenpolz at the recent annual gathering of KTM bike dealers from across North America in Salt Lake City, Utah. Apparently the company has received some 600+ requests from American KTM dealers for the X-Bow to make the transatlantic trip. Trunkenpolz (now we just like saying Trunkenpolz) noted that they will need cooperation from Volkswagen/Audi, who supplies the running gear, and from local authorities, but that the company "will do whatever is possible to bring the car to the U.S. – that, I promise.
Labels:
2008,
Concept Cars,
news
2009 Honda City
Honda's latest City, which is primarily sold overseas in Asian countries, has been outed and things are looking pretty good for the little machine. We really dig the look of the new City, with its front-end clearly derived from newer Hondas like the FCX Clarity. Inside is a neat and tidy dash, instrument cluster and center stack that makes us long for the simple designs from a few years back. Tucked in behind the steering wheel are paddle shifters for the automatic transmission and under the stylishly creased hood is a 120-horse 1.5-liter four cylinder i-VTEC engine, which is also used by the Fit and Jazz models. Based on photos alone, Honda could certainly do worse than to offer this fuel-sipper on U.S. shores.
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