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Friday, February 26, 2010

Seat Altea Freetrack

The complete launch offer of the SEAT Altea and SEAT Altea XL 2009 range includes 35 different versions divided into two body styles, nine engine choices - five petrol and four Diesel, four gearboxes (5 and 6-speed manual, and 6 and 7-speed DSG), and three trim levels - Reference, Style and Sport. The offer is complete with a new entry-level version and the SEAT Altea Freetrack model, which is available with either two or four-wheel drive and the Sport trim level.

The new SEAT Altea 2009 range is available with a broad equipment list as standard. The entry-level version features the 85 hp 1.4 and 90 hp 1.9 TDI engines on the SEAT Altea and only the 90 hp 1.9 TDI on the SEAT Altea XL, with elements such as ABS and TCS, ESP with EBA, driver and passenger airbag, side airbags, head airbag, rear Isofix anchoring points, front power one-touch anti-trap windows, remote controlled central locking, tinted glass, 15 inch steel rims, 195/65 tyres, double headlights, anti-theft roof aerial, sliding rear seats, storage compartments on the sides of the front and rear seats, central console storage compartment, storage hooks on the boot sides and rear parcel shelf with storage compartments, among others.

As with the SEAT León, the SEAT Altea range continues with the Reference version, which builds on the entry-level version with trip computer, CD radio + MP3 + 6 speakers + Aux in, low tyre pressure warning, air conditioning, body colour door mirrors and handles, front active headrests (on the SEAT Altea XL) and rear door folding shades (also on the SEAT Altea XL).

Complete list of optional elements
The new SEAT Altea 2009 range features a long list of optional elements that significantly increase onboard comfort and safety.
The Lifestyle Plus package is available on the Reference trim level, which includes cornering foglights, 16 inch alloy rims, multi-function steering wheel and heated door mirrors.
As on the León, the Technology and Technology Plus packages are available on the Style and Sport versions. The Technology package includes rain sensing wipers, rear parking sensor, anti-dazzle rear-view mirror and two extra speakers; while the Technology Plus package includes dual xenon headlights + AFS, the SEAT Mediasystem navigation system, Bluetooth and front parking sensors with parking optics. This package is exclusively associated to the Technology package.

Seat Altea XL

Style builds on Reference with several more elements, such as cornering foglights, three-spoke leather multi-function steering wheel, leather gearknob, rear power windows, electric heated folding door mirrors, cruise control, Coming Home, chrome inside door handles, climate control, combined USB + Aux in connection, height adjustable driver and passenger seat with lumbar control, 16" 'Enea' alloy rims, 205/55 tyres and visible twin tailpipe on versions with 140 hp or higher engines.
The top of the new SEAT Altea 2009 range is finished in Sport trim, which builds on Style with dark glass, sport seats with specific upholstery, 17" 'Aroa' alloy rims, 225/45 tyres and sports suspension.

Complete list of optional elements
The new SEAT Altea 2009 range features a long list of optional elements that significantly increase onboard comfort and safety.
The Lifestyle Plus package is available on the Reference trim level, which includes cornering foglights, 16 inch alloy rims, multi-function steering wheel and heated door mirrors.

As on the León, the Technology and Technology Plus packages are available on the Style and Sport versions. The Technology package includes rain sensing wipers, rear parking sensor, anti-dazzle rear-view mirror and two extra speakers; while the Technology Plus package includes dual xenon headlights + AFS, the SEAT Mediasystem navigation system, Bluetooth and front parking sensors with parking optics. This package is exclusively associated to the Technology package.
The Style trim level is available with the Sport and Sport Plus packages, which include alloy rims (17 inch with the Sport package and 18 inch with the Sport Plus package), specific upholstery, sports suspension, sport seats and dark glass. The Sport Plus package is also available on the Sport trim level, but with 18 inch rims as standard equipment.

The new SEAT Altea XL 2009 is available with an exclusive Family package, which provides onboard comfort and entertainment with the addition of ceiling storage with a 7 inch TFT screen and RCA connectors, dark glass and the Technology package.
As for rims, optional 16 inch "Elio" alloy rims are available on the Reference trim level (as standard on the 125 hp 1.4 TSI engine); 17 inch "Agra" rims on Style and 18 inch "Draco" rims on Sport.

Seat Ibiza FR

The Seat Ibiza FR introduces several novelties compared with the previous model, which all combine to provide a more intense driving experience. First of all, the brand's new car is equipped with the efficient 150 hp twin charger 1.4 TSI engine. Thanks to its latest generation technology, this engine provides greater elasticity, brilliant performance and lower fuel consumption figures and emissions levels, and fully complies with EU-5 legislation on the subject.

The Seat Ibiza FR's powerful engine is mated to a seven-speed DSG gearbox with steering wheel shift paddles. As on the Seat Ibiza Cupra version, the gearbox has been developed with sportier software than on the 1.6 model of the Ibiza range.

The addition of the XDS system provides greater driving comfort and safety. This electronic system works together with ESP and functions as a self-blocking mechanism. It improves the car's performance when traction is lost by braking the wheel that loses grip.

The new design of the Seat Ibiza FR highlights its sporty looks on the inside as well as on the exterior, with new bumpers that lend a more aggressive appearance, featuring front honeycomb slats and a chrome surround on the central grille in combination with the Arrow Design concept. Other tell-tale exterior elements on the FR are silver coloured door mirrors, specific 17 inch rims or the twin tailpipe to one side.

The interior also conveys the car's racing nature with a specific instrument display that carries the FR logo, a new steering wheel with built-in DSG shift paddles and the seat design, whose upholstery also heavily contributes to its sporty looks.

As far as standard equipment goes, SEAT's new car is further equipped with ESP, TCS + EBA, ABS, Hill Hold Control, low tyre pressure warning, driver and passenger airbags, head-chest airbag, trip computer, cruise control, climate control, CD radio with MP3 + 6 speakers + Aux-in connection, sports suspension and cornering foglights, among other elements.

Seat Leon Cupra

With the arrival of the 2010 version of the Seat León Cupra, the range's most powerful and spectacular car now features even more impressive looks thanks to several elements introduced on the interior and the exterior, making it the perfect extension of the Seat León that is making phenomenal strides at the WTCC World Touring Car Championship.

The most obvious is the new silhouette, featuring sophisticated, innovative black honeycomb cooling vents at the front beneath the central grille. The front bumper houses two further black highlights, one at each side, with the word Cupra immediately visible on the left.

The rear features a prominent black moulding at the bottom of the bumper, a polished steel oval tailpipe and the characteristic model name in the centre of the hatch.
A side look at the Seat León Cupra reveals a lower ground clearance compared to the basic León version, making the car look and feel more like a racing unit. The spectacular 18 inch rims, eye-catching wheel arches and black encased door mirrors are all distinctive traits of the Seat model.

All the interior elements are black clad, replacing the usual light tones on other models. There is a leather steering wheel with aluminium colour inserts and the Cupra logo at the bottom and a matching gearknob. Further sporty details are the white faced instrument dials and aluminium pedals.

Special mention goes to the Seat Leon Cupra Seats, with their true racing bucket styling, featuring integrated headrests and the "Cupra" badge displayed on the backrests. These Seats offer tremendous side support when dealing with corners and driving comfort. An attractive new option is now available in black leather upholstery with white cross-stitching.

The same as on the previous version, the new Seat León Cupra 2009 is equipped with the powerful 240 hp 2.0 TSI engine, which provides brilliant performance and delivers exceptional fuel consumption figures. Top speed is clocked at 247 km/h, 0 to 100 km/h acceleration takes only 6.4 seconds, and it covers a standing kilometre in only 26.4 seconds. At the same time, average combined fuel consumption is listed at 8.3 litres for every 100 km.

The new Seat León Cupra features such standard equipment as the XDS system, ABS and TCS, ESP with EBA emergency braking, low tyre pressure warning, driver and passenger airbag, side airbag and head airbag, climate control, cornering foglights, trip computer, cruise control, sports suspension and CD radio + MP3 + 8 speakers + Aux-in, among others.

Smart Roadster Coupe

The Smart Roadster is a two-door microcar first introduced in 2003 by Smart GmbH.

History
At the 1998 Paris Motor Show, the two-seat, 2.5-metre Smart City Coupe (later named Smart Fortwo) was launched. This was the beginning of a new car brand and one of the more radical vehicle concepts to hit the European market since the bubble cars of the 1950s. It was also the beginning of a difficult period for Smart. The City Coupe had stability problems that were uncovered only immediately prior to launch. These forced a package of alterations to be made that were both expensive and compromised the car’s handling, ride and gear shift. Public concerns over the car's stability, combined with Smart’s elitist marketing and the sheer radicality of the car’s design.

The Design & Development
Under design director Jens Manske in autumn 1998, Smart's 14-strong design and engineering team began to sketch possible future Smart cars. They soon realised that the powertrain of the City Coupe was ideal for a small sports car, with a compact turbo engine driving the rear wheels via a sequential 6 speed gearbox.

Following Smart’s ‘reduce to the max’ philosophy and general innovative approach, a concept for a super compact, practical and pure sports car was generated. Two quarter-scale exterior and two quarter-scale interior models were made in February 1999 with Volker Leutz’s exterior and Christoph Machinek’s interior proposals selected for development into full-size development models. The design of the car had progressed considerably by the time Michael Mauer officially arrived from Mercedes Benz's Japan design center to take over Menske's position in May 1999. Mauer worked closely with the design team to quickly develop the roadster, with the intention now of producing a show car for the upcoming 1999 IAA motor show in Frankfurt.

The Roadster concept was well received at Frankfurt and helped to convince management that the car should be developed for production. At the same time a decision was made to develop Mauer’s idea for a coupe version as a concept car for Paris motor show a year later. As development of the coupe concept began, so the roadster show car was developed over the following year with both exterior and interior designs completed by November 2000 However, colour and trim design continued until a year later.

sBy early 2000 the Smart City Coupe had finally started to gain sales momentum, with its cabrio version making a significant addition to total Smart sales. In March Mauer left Smart for Saab, succeeded by Hartmut Sinkwitz in May. As the third design director of Smart during the Roadster's development, Sinkwitz had to bring the concept to production in a very short time. This task may have been made somewhat easier by the Roadster having been designed from the start to use existing powertrain and other City Coupe components. Given some of the advanced design features, it is a credit to the design team that so much of the concept car made it to production.

Concept Car
the ‘Roadster Coupe’ as shown at the 2000 Paris motor show was already on its way to production form. It shared the design of the Roadster from the doors forward, but had a glass targa roof and rear structure resembling a very small estate (station wagon) in the same way as the BMW Z3 coupe and the Saab 9X concept car developed under Mauer at Saab a few years later.

Production
The Smart Roadster and Roadster Coupé were introduced in 2003, based on a stretched platform of the Fortwo (full length is 3427 mm). The two variants are meant to be reminiscent of the British roadster of yore, such as the Triumph Spitfire or the MG B. Both the Roadster and Roadster Coupé are available with a removable Targa roof or an electrical Softtop. The Roadster is powered by 45 or 60 kW (61 or 82 PS) versions of the turbocharged 3-cylinder engine in the rear, which is engineered by Mercedes Benz. The Roadster Coupé has only the more powerful 82 PS engine. A steering wheel with Formula 1-style gearpaddles, to control the semi-automatic sequential transmission, is optional. With weight as low as 790 kg, it is meant to provide the emotion of driving a sports car at an affordable cost. Still, the Roadster's price is not very far from that of a Fiat Barchetta or Mazda MX-5.

Both the Roadster and Roadster Coupé are available in Brabus-tuned versions with power increased to 74 kW (101 PS). The Brabus versions have a different twin sports exhaust, lower suspension, polished six-spoke aluminum alloy Monoblock VI 17" wheels, front spoiler, side skirts and radiator grille. Exclusive Brabus interior includes leather trimmed dashboard, alloy-effect accent parts, instrument graphics, leather/aluminium gearknob, aluminium handbrake handle, aluminium pedals and Brabus labeled floor mats.

Rinspeed iChange Concept

The Swiss auto powerhouse Rinspeed presents the Rinspeed iChange Concept, the world's first car whose body adapts to the number of passengers on board. For Rinspeed boss Rinderknecht the vehicle is more than just a clever concept car. "The Rinspeed iChange Concept is a symbol for the fundamental changes the auto industry undergoes worldwide. And it is clear that only those companies will survive that have innovative answers for the demands of a new automotive era." The visionary Rinderknecht is convinced that the days of gas-guzzling behemoths are coming to an end: "The Rinspeed iChange Concept is a signal for the coming global changes to individual mobility. We need to be ready to meet these challenges with new ideas."

In seconds a streamlined one-seater sports car transforms into a comfortable car with ample room for three. The trick: At the push of a button the rear end of the teardrop-shaped car magically pops up. "We have designed and built an extremely flexible vehicle. In it we have brought the themes of versatility and continually changing energy demands to their logical conclusions." The result is a streamlined, lightweight zero-emission car with dramatically reduced energy consumption.

The basic idea behind the 'Rinspeed iChange Concept: The energy demand of a vehicle depends mostly on its weight, the type of engine it uses, and its aerodynamic properties. The engineering-services company Esoro that traditionally builds Rinspeed concept cars has built an extremely lightweight car weighing in at only 1050 kilograms. To power the car, the Swiss specialists chose an electric motor. The idea of the pop-up rear end was conceived to account for the sizeable effect aerodynamics play in fuel consumption.

While other cars always have to ferry around their puffed-up exteriors that can accommodate up to seven passengers even if they're just transporting a single soul, the Rinspeed iChange Concept features an adaptive body. The sole driver is conveyed in a teardrop-shaped car that offers optimal aerodynamic properties and thus minimized energy consumption. If more than one person need to be transported the expanding rear provides room for two passengers. As a result of the increased weight and no longer optimal aerodynamics the energy consumption increases - but only for the time passengers are actually on board.

The energy for the electric motor comes from lithium-ion batteries that are available in two different stack configurations for short- and long-distance driving. The electric motor of the Rinspeed iChange Concept produces 150kW, capable of propelling the car to a top speed of 220 km/h. The sprint from rest to 100 km/h takes just slightly over four seconds. This impressive performance is made possible with the help of a six-speed pre-selector gearbox from the Subaru WRX car. The central research department of Siemens AG (Corporate Technology, CT) supplied the integration technology for engine/generator, electronics and battery connection interface. Siemens has long been one of the world leaders for energy systems and eco technology with pioneering concepts for electric drive systems. Its products cover the entire electric value-added chain from generation to distribution to consumption. The gearbox and drivetrain are lubricated with eco-friendly lubricants from Motorex. Custom-made lightweight 17" and 18" forged wheels with aerodynamic shrouds are supplied by light-alloy wheel specialists AEZ. Pirelli P Zero tires in size 215/40-17 in front and size 245/40-18 in back provide optimal grip.

An initial walk-around reveals that the concept car has no doors. The entire electrically powered roof section of the car measuring just 1.03 meters in height tilts forward to allow passengers to board. Also gone are such mundane things as a key. Its role is filled by an Apple iPhone, which also controls the most important vehicle functions. The Rinspeed iChange Concept is drastically different than ordinary cars in every detail: At the heart of the concept car lies the groundbreaking next-generation Harman/Kardon infotainment system. The system uses an innovative Intel processor technology that guarantees minimized power consumption. The same is true for the Harman/Kardon high-efficiency audio system. This revolutionary technology meets highest demands on sound quality, weighs much less than ordinary systems and at the same time uses only a fraction of energy. This opens the door to a new dimension of energy efficiency. The route guidance of the navigation system is also especially eco-friendly: The system calculates the most energy-saving route and displays the directions in realistic 3D view. Eberspächer Group from Esslingen, Germany is one of the world leaders in car heaters. Specifically for the „iChange" project Eberspächer developed custom-tailored electric and fuel-burning heating systems. Both systems are geared toward the specific requirements and conditions of electric vehicles.

The pure wool used in the interior was further refined into high-tech wool by Schoeller using state-of-the-art processes. The wool is spun and died in accordance with the highest eco standards. It provides an extremely extravagant ambiance in the Rinspeed iChange Concept, looks stunning and is delicate to the touch. The competence partner Strähle + Hess transformed this natural product into a striking interior. Its surface character and materiality combine to create a symbiosis of shell, firmness and frothy air. Unconventional techniques create unusual surfaces. The seams of the seats are reversed and the removable seats cushions are adorned with the prototype's name. Xmobil provided further customization services. While textiles can be found in the Rinspeed iChange Concept in their original form in other areas, they are newly interpreted on seats and cargo floor using various refinement techniques such as braiding and gathering and a combination of both. Leather strips alternate with technical textiles. The seat cushions are interchangeable, braided felt alternates with technical textiles formed into three-dimensional shapes. This transfers the adaptive concept of the Rinspeed iChange Concept to the interior as well. The diamond-coated anti-slip floor is supplied by abrasives specialist KGS.

The Swiss Federal Ministry for Energy (Bundesamt für Energie) supports the „iChange" project as a groundbreaking research and development project. Solar panels on the top and sides of the roof provide electricity to the fan to keep temperatures in the Rinspeed iChange Concept comfortably low on hot summer days. The large Sharp solar panels also provide additional eco-friendly charging of the batteries.

With the Rinspeed iChange Concept Rinderknecht, a passionate C. F. Bucherer watch wearer, and his partners once more want to provide food for thought for the automotive industry. The Swiss car visionary: "If we want to maintain our individual mobility in the future we have to rethink the car in its entirety, without taboos. Most of all, we have to take its ecological aspects into consideration." And in the end everyone has to personally answer the same question: Am I ready and willing to change myself, do and can 'I change'?

Holden Volt

The Volt - Vehicle Details

The design of the Volt production car has evolved from an original concept that was unveiled at the 2007 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. General Motors created an energy efficient design for the production vehicle, resulting in one of the most aerodynamic cars in the company's history. Many of the design cues from the concept car have been carried over in the production Volt, including the closed front grille, athletic stance and rear design graphics. Inside, Volt will offer the space, comfort, convenience and safety features that customers expect in a four-passenger sedan.

Volt - Battery Details
GM will establish the first lithium-ion battery pack manufacturing facility operated by a major automaker in the United States to produce the Volt's battery pack system. It consists of lithium-ion cells that are grouped into modules, along with other key battery components. The plant will be located in Michigan, subject to negotiations with state and local government authorities. Facility preparation will begin in early 2009, with production tooling to be installed mid-year and output starting in 2010.

Dacia Duster Concept

The Dacia Duster Concept - Dacia's first concept crossover - is proud to be different. Seen from the driver's side, it is visibly a sporting coupé, yet passengers entering from the other side will see it as an MPV (Multi Purpose Vehicle) with a traditionally opening front door and rear-hinged rear door which suggest plush travelling refinement.

The Dacia Duster Concept's height of 1.49 metres, short front and rear overhangs (65cm and 80cm respectively), generous wheelbase (2.80m) and compact volumes (4.25m long, 1.64m wide) exude an overriding sense of robustness and sports appeal.

The front end features a broad bumper with two horizontal air-intake slits that suggest power. The grille features evident Dacia styling cues and is flanked by headlamps which wrap over the front wings to form a tapering line of light that stretches rearward towards the doors.
Viewed from the side, the clear-cut lines of the wheel arches and tall doors reinforce the impression that Dacia Duster Concept sits squarely on the road. The Anthracite Grey bodywork and extensive one-piece glazed sweep - made possible by the absence of a central pillar - highlights the styling of the sides which are unmistakably reminiscent of Dacia Duster Concept's graphic identity.

At the rear, the engraved Dacia logo further emphasizes the concept car's robust, dependable credentials.
Like Logan, Dacia Duster Concept is just 4.25 metres long, and its inherent agility ensures that it is perfectly at home in the urban jungle. Meanwhile, its 21-inch, five-spoke aluminium alloy wheels, exterior mirrors positioned on the window surround and trapezoidal aluminium exhaust tailpipes are telltale signs of its sporting pedigree.

Special care has gone into Dacia Duster Concept's aerodynamic efficiency (Cd: 0.30) and the fluid lines of the body sides enable air to flow freely along the vehicle's flanks before being jettisoned through the rear lights. The aerodynamic, wing-like forms of the roof-mounted direction indicators also channel airflow towards the rear. The sum of all this work has naturally been beneficial to fuel consumption, and Dacia Duster Concept stands out as a particularly environmentally-respectful crossover. Despite its performance potential, the particulate filterequipped 1.5 dCi 105hp engine (77kW) emits just 139g of CO2/km, equivalent to fuel consumption of 5.3 litres/100km.

A CROSSOVER WITH DACIA HALLMARKS
This futuristic crossover showcases the brand's core values - namely simplicity, robustness and authenticity - in a surprising form, yet Dacia's hallmark ingenuity and generosity are immediately apparent in the way designers have approached Dacia Duster Concept's cabin.
The concept car's two-tone chocolate and blue interior exudes a sense of well-being and conviviality. The fully glazed roof floods the cabin with light, while the enveloping forms of the staggered slim-line front seats provide first class comfort and support. The driver's seat is incorporated in a structure which extends all the way from the sill to the centre console, forming a sculptural, one-piece ensemble that echoes the exterior's sporty appeal.

The user-friendly dashboard features fluid, expressive lines while employing simple materials. The driver's side front airbag is housed in the lower part of the steeringwheel which has made it possible to position the screen centrally and free up appreciable stowage space on the dashboard. The latter's receding lines also provide record kneeroom of 280mm for the front passenger who benefits from an exceptionally comfortable seating position. The bellows-like form of the original two-tone dashboard incorporates a 20-litre glovebox, while the door inserts each include eight-litre stowage bins. Another bin has been cleverly concealed in the back of the rear right-hand seat. A simple push causes a box to slide forward from the boot which itself is in total keeping with the Dacia spirit, with the upright tailgate providing a carrying capacity of 470dm3 (VDA), a remarkable achievement for a vehicle of Dacia Duster Concept's compact overall dimensions.

Dacia Duster Concept is an adaptable, modular concept car. The four-seat 'daily driver' layout can be swiftly converted into a leisure configuration in a matter of seconds. The passenger seat slides underneath the driver's seat on rails concealed in the floor to leave just one front seat and consequently free up a total carrying volume of two cubic metres. Thanks to a recess in the floor and a strap located under the dashboard, this space can be used to carry a trials mountain bike.

Dimensions

* Length: 4,250 mm
* Width: 1,640 mm
* Height: 1,495 mm
* Overall width, doors open: 4,285 mm
* Wheelbase: 2,804 mm
* Front track: 1,637 mm
* Rear track: 1,640 mm
* Unladen weight: 1,300 kg
* Boot volume: 470 dm3 (VDA)

Technical data
* Engine type: dCi 105
* Maximum power: 105 hp (77 kW)
* Maximum torque: 240 Nm at 2,000rpm
* 0-100 km/h: 9.6 s
* CO2 emissions: 139g/km
* Combined cycle fuel consumption: equivalent to 5.3 litres/100km
* Transmission: Manual six-speed gearbox
* Tyres: 245/35 ZR21
* Wheels: 21-inch diameter wheels

Scion Hako Coupe Concept

The Scion's Hako Coupe Concept embodies a distinct global perspective on today's youth. This type of forward thinking complements the Scion philosophy of intently listening to our customers and being willing to take risks to help us see where our brand should be. We took the xB's iconic boxy shape and explored something more vivacious, yet just as emotionally appealing. This concept is the sporty version of a box."

Tokyo Design developed the Scion Hako Coupe with classic American coupes in mind. The car's geometric profile conveys a powerful stance in a compact and bold package. Its trapezoidal LED headlights lie parallel with a large and aggressive, rectangular upper grille. The lower rectangular grille anchors the front fascia and continues to communicate the Hako's aggressive attitude. Round fog lights, symmetrically placed high on the front bumper, have integrated turn signals.

The Hako's silhouette is accentuated by slim, race-car-inspired side mirrors that also feature integrated turn signals. Powerful, flared fenders add dimension and contrast to the concept's boxy shape and smooth surface planes. The Hako concept hugs the road with custom 18-inch deep dish five-spoke wheels and tires with a "Scion" custom tread.

The Scion Hako Coupe features a vertical windshield as the concept sits upright and ready to attack the road. A high linear beltline along with a blackened and chopped greenhouse seamlessly wrap around the rear to provide a mysterious profile. As an example of potential personalization, the concept is equipped with a flat, panorama roof that features a random, barcode-like pattern that can be seen on the exterior and from the interior.

The rear features LED taillights that echo the shape of the headlights. To complete the package, the rear bumper has an integrated fog and back up light on the left and exhaust on the right.

Inside, the Hako is accented with orange and metallic detailing that exudes a modern environment with entertainment possibilities. The front and rear seats are covered with urethane and rubber-like upholstery for easy cleaning. The contemporary front bucket seats flow to the floor and incorporate a geometric design on the seatback. The seats are separated by a center console that features a large storage crevice for storing magazines, cell phones, and other small items. Two cockpit-like rear seats also share a storage crevice.

The orange driver's seat has a gaming theme. Instrumentation and warning lights cascade from the art inspired instrument panel to the steering wheel. The shifter, located on the center console, resembles a large joystick. On the steering wheel is a simple button to start the engine and a track-ball type control for the Hako's entertainment system located on the passenger dash. The entertainment system consists of two video monitor screens mounted on the dash for radio, video, and music capabilities. Users can upload their videos and music through a Bluetooth® connection. The front passenger controls the system using a large rollerball mounted on the center of the dash. A black seat differentiates the front passenger area.

The video monitors located on each door and on each side of the rear seating area project distorted fish-eye images from orange filtered cameras mounted beneath the A-pillars. While the vehicle is parked the driver and passenger can edit the scenes captured by the cameras to show their friends where they have been and perhaps even post the clip online for others to see.

Saturday, February 6, 2010

Bugatti Galibier Concept

As the climax of its centenary celebration ceremonies, Bugatti Automobiles S.A.S. presented customers and opinion-makers with the Bugatti Galibier Concept, intended to be the most exclusive, elegant, and powerful four door automobile in the world last weekend in Molsheim. At the historic site where Ettore Bugatti once laid the cornerstone of his company, Bugatti's current president, Dr. Ing. Franz-Josef Paefgen emphasised that the Bugatti Galibier 16C is one of several concept studies with which the company is considering for the future of the Bugatti marque.

Technique: those are the brand values to which Ettore Bugatti and his son Jean oriented themselves in order to develop even more powerful engines and even more noble body designs for each new model, which were without equal in quality, handling, speed and elegance. In the process, they experimented again and again without compromise with new materials; thus was Bugatti one of the first manufacturers to use aluminium parts for bodies, engine blocks and wheels.

Technique are also the brand values to which the design and engineering team of Bugatti Automobiles S.A.S. oriented themselves in the development of the Bugatti Galibier. With this new four-door concept car, Bugatti assumes anew a leading role in the use of new material combinations. Thus the body is constructed of handmade carbon fibre parts coloured dark blue so that, when illuminated, the woven structure shimmers through strikingly. Carbon fibre not only possesses unusually great rigidity but is also especially light. The wings and doors are out of polished aluminium.

The Bugatti Galibier's design masters the challenge of uniting sportiness with the comfort and elegance of a modern four-door saloon. The basic architecture picks up on the torpedo-like character of the Type 35, which was already revived in the Bugatti Veyron, and reinterprets it. With the typical Bugatti radiator grille, big round LED headlights and the clamshell running the length of the vehicle which became synonymous with the brand identity under Jean Bugatti in the Type 57, this car transports the Bugatti genes into the modern world.

Beneath the bonnet, which folds back from both sides, there resides a 16-cylinder, 8-litre engine with twostage supercharging. What makes this engine special is that it was developed as a flex-fuel engine and can optional be run on ethanol. Four-wheel drive, specially developed ceramic brakes and a new suspension design enable the agile, always-sure handling of a saloon of this size.

The interior reflects the elemental design of the exterior. The dash panel has been reduced to the essential; two centrally located main instruments keep even the rear passengers constantly informed of the actual speed and previous performance. Parmigiani, the Swiss maker of fine watches, created the removable Reverso Tourbillon clock for the Bugatti Galibier, which may be worn on the wrist thanks to a cleverly designed leather strap.

Chevrolet Cruze WTCC

The all-new Chevrolet Cruze, which premiered at the Paris Motor Show, will continue Chevrolet's presence in the WTCC, in which the marque so far has won twelve world championship races.

To test of the new Chevrolet Cruze WTCC race car - which is the first to start Chevrolet's new design language in Europe - has already started and is on schedule, and will continue throughout the remainder of the current season and the coming winter.
Developed, built, run and driven by the same team and drivers, the Cruze will be all but guaranteed the same speed, reliability and success. The Chevrolet Cruze WTCC first competitive outing will be in Brazil at the opening round of the 2009 WTCC in Curitiba. I
n 2009, the WTCC will again visit twelve tracks, in South and Central-America, Africa, Europe and the Far-East.

Chevrolet Equinox

The Chevrolet Equinox is a compact crossover that blends distinctive design with outstanding efficiency. 2.4L direct injection engine helps the Chevrolet Equinox deliver expected best-in-segment estimated highway fuel economy of 30 mpg (EPA certification pending) - a 25-percent improvement over the previous model. Chevrolet expects nearly two-thirds of customers will choose the efficient, 2.4L engine.

Its exterior design inspiration from the Chevrolet Malibu sedan and Traverse crossover; and like those vehicles, the new Equinox complements its styling with attention to detail and unexpected features, according to Ed Peper, GM North America vice president, Chevrolet.

The vehicle highlights:
* New 2.4L Ecotec direct injected I-4 engine estimated at 182 horsepower (135 kW), which delivers an estimated 30 mpg highway, 21 mpg city (EPA certification pending)
* New 3.0L DOHC direct injected V-6 engine estimated at 255 horsepower (190 kW), which delivers an estimated 25 mpg highway, 18 mpg city (EPA certification pending)
* Driving range of more than 500 miles (800 km) with both engines, for less-frequent fill-ups
* Six standard air bags: dual frontal air bags; head curtain side air bags and pelvic/thorax seat-mounted side air bags
* Standard four-wheel disc brakes with StabiliTrak electronic stability control and traction control
* Standard OnStar and XM Satellite Radio
* "Smart" remote starting system that also activates the HVAC system and optional heated seats depending on the outside temperature

The design details :
Designed features Chevy's signature global face - the two-tier grille and prominent gold Bowtie insignia. Strong fender shapes, a distinctive premium roofline, wraparound headlamps and dual round taillamps are additional elements that define Equinox as a true Chevrolet, Peper said.

Design features:
* A multi-dimensional hood and wraparound rear side glass and a wheels-at-the-corners stance
* Improved aerodynamic performance through a number of carefully designed exterior features, including moving the base of the windshield forward approximately three inches (75 mm) for a sleeker profile

The Chevy Equinox's rocker panels are integrated into the doors to make it easier to get in and out of the vehicle. They narrow the area over which a passenger must step, offering protection for pant legs that could brush against dirty rockers. The select use of chrome trim and flush-fitting "exposed-edge" windshield and rear glass reinforce Equinox's build quality and reduce wind noise.

Dimensionally, the Chevrolet Equinox rides on the same 112.5-inch wheelbase (2,857 mm), but is about one inch (25 mm) shorter in length and an inch wider. It also has a wider front track that enhances the ride and handling.

The interior amenities, storage and flexibility
Inside, the Chevrolet Equinox features attention to detail - including a number of storage bins, such as an oversized glove box; a closed storage bin in the instrument panel above the center stack; and closed storage under the center armrest large enough for a laptop computer.

A "floating" center stack houses a multitude of ergonomic comfort and convenience controls. Contemporary, ice-blue ambient lighting - featured within and surrounding the center stack, encircling the center-console cupholders and within the door pull cups - accentuates the cabin. The front and rear seats, which include cloth and uplevel, perforated leather-trimmed offerings, were developed to help deliver best-in-class comfort.

The new Equinox retains its MultiFlex rear seat capability, which allows the seat to be moved fore or aft nearly eight inches (203 mm), for the best rear legroom in its class. With the 60/40-split-back rear seat moved all the way forward, the cargo area offers 31.4 cubic feet (889 liters) of storage.

The Chevy Equinox's cabin is notable for its quietness. Noise-absorbing elements are built into the chassis, engine compartment and interior.

Convenience, infotainment and connectivity
The variety of technologies are integrated in the Chevrolet Equinox, such as an available seven-inch touch-screen navigation system.
Additional features also include:
* Bluetooth hands-free phone connectivity
* USB audio connectivity
* DVD-based rear-seat entertainment system with two independent screens to enable DVD viewing on one and gaming on the other
* Internal memory/hard drive on uplevel radios for storing audio selections
* Power, programmable rear liftgate
* Rear-vision camera system, with display in the rearview mirror or in the navigation screen
* Range of premium-feature audio systems with up to eight speakers and 250 watts of output

Chassis and suspension
The Equinox is built on a body-integral structure with single-piece body side stampings and targeted applications of high-strength steel. Those elements form the foundation of a solid, quiet driving experience, according to Peper. The strong structure enabled engineers to tune the four-wheel-independent suspension system for greater control and driver feedback.

The Standard and features:
* Available all wheel drive
* Family of 17-, 18- and 19-inch alloy wheels
* Fuel-saving electric power steering system

The rack-mounted electric power steering system provides greater fuel efficiency of on 2.4L-equipped models that saves nearly 11 miles per tank of gas, or about 572 miles per year (assuming one fill-up per week). With the Equinox's estimated 30 mpg on the highway, the electric power steering system saves the equivalent of approximately one tank of gas each year.

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