German luxury car-maker makes any model in its range available at hourly rental rates. Catch is, it's so far only possible in Munich.
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If you wish to dress to impress next time you visit the German city of Munich, then US$89.20 will get you a BMW 7 Series to do with as you will for a couple of hours.
The German company has just initiated a 12-month trial run of a programme called "BMW on Demand" that encompasses its complete range of cars -- from 1 Series to M and 7 Series -- and makes it possible to book a BMW at an hourly day rate for a maximum of four hours. After 6PM and before 9AM, bookings are limited to a maximum of two hours.
BMW sees the concept as having "major ramifications for the global automotive industry." It says research shows the average car is parked about 90 per cent of its life; "an underutilised capital investment."
Customers of the scheme "may choose a 7 Series BMW Saloon for an important meeting one day, a BMW 1 Series for some around town shopping the next, and a Z4 for a weekend trip, all in the same week."
BMW allows personal choice of model, colour and equipment, and bookings can be made online, by telephone, or in person.
The rates include insurance, cleaning and servicing and vary from daytime charges of US$44.60 an hour for top-shelf models to around half that for a base 1 Series. Night rates are higher.
The company is presently conducting the pilot run from its showcase dealership in Munich and, presuming a degree of success, expects to follow up with a second phase extending to "other locations" in the future.
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site...
Thứ Năm, 29 tháng 3, 2012
VW's car that steers itself
New Passat can keep on the straight and narrow without the driver's help
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Volkswagen has released a car that can steer by itself if the driver is distracted or affected by fatigue.
The new Passat medium size car, which went on sale in Europe this week before arriving in Australian showrooms early next year, has a "lane assistance" system that will keep the steering of the car on course if it senses you're about to drive off the road or out of your lane.
Other car makers have technology that sounds an alarm when the car starts to wander, but Volkswagen claims it's the first company to offer a system that also steers. We would make the counterclaim that Honda, in Europe, is actually the first to offer such a system -- and the Carsales Network sampled it earlier in the year, driving an Accord Tourer. Mercedes-Benz has also introduced a similar system, but that relies on dragging the car back into the lane by applying selective braking pressure on one wheel at the rear of the car.
"We know other car makers have a sound warning for lane assistance, but we believe our steering input is a world first," Ingo Meinke, the Volkswagen engineer responsible for developing the system, told the Carsales Network at the launch of the new Passat in Barcelona overnight.
"For the new Passat we made many refinements, including making the intervention very gentle so as to not surprise the driver."
A camera in the windscreen constantly scans the road ahead looking for lane markings. If the car wanders from the lane without the indicators being applied, it will intervene.
However, the technology is not fail-safe. It only works above 65km/h in ideal conditions. In a sample of the technology on a test drive, the system intervened on only one out of every four attempts to trigger the steering control.
The system can be adversely affected by shadows on the road, faint line markings and other traffic.
"For sure it is not perfect, it is an assistance system only," Meinke said. "We do not want to take control away from the driver, rather it is there in case of emergency and the chance we may prevent a collision."
The system takes control of the steering for up to 8 to 10 seconds until the driver regains control of the car.
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site...
discount new cars » Get the best price on a new Volkswagen
Volkswagen has released a car that can steer by itself if the driver is distracted or affected by fatigue.
The new Passat medium size car, which went on sale in Europe this week before arriving in Australian showrooms early next year, has a "lane assistance" system that will keep the steering of the car on course if it senses you're about to drive off the road or out of your lane.
Other car makers have technology that sounds an alarm when the car starts to wander, but Volkswagen claims it's the first company to offer a system that also steers. We would make the counterclaim that Honda, in Europe, is actually the first to offer such a system -- and the Carsales Network sampled it earlier in the year, driving an Accord Tourer. Mercedes-Benz has also introduced a similar system, but that relies on dragging the car back into the lane by applying selective braking pressure on one wheel at the rear of the car.
"We know other car makers have a sound warning for lane assistance, but we believe our steering input is a world first," Ingo Meinke, the Volkswagen engineer responsible for developing the system, told the Carsales Network at the launch of the new Passat in Barcelona overnight.
"For the new Passat we made many refinements, including making the intervention very gentle so as to not surprise the driver."
A camera in the windscreen constantly scans the road ahead looking for lane markings. If the car wanders from the lane without the indicators being applied, it will intervene.
However, the technology is not fail-safe. It only works above 65km/h in ideal conditions. In a sample of the technology on a test drive, the system intervened on only one out of every four attempts to trigger the steering control.
The system can be adversely affected by shadows on the road, faint line markings and other traffic.
"For sure it is not perfect, it is an assistance system only," Meinke said. "We do not want to take control away from the driver, rather it is there in case of emergency and the chance we may prevent a collision."
The system takes control of the steering for up to 8 to 10 seconds until the driver regains control of the car.
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site...
Fiat, Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep get Mopar treatment
Pentastar brand's Mopar division goes accessory crazy as the SEMA show looms ever closer
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Fiat and Chrysler are strengthening their ties, so it's perhaps fitting that the latter's Mopar (parts and servicing) arm has prepared an extreme Fiat 500 for the upcoming SEMA (Specialty Equipment Market Association) show.
The blinged-up Bambino will be among 35 vehicles wheeled out by Chrysler at the annual Las Vegas-based aftermarket extravaganza, which takes place on Nov 2-5. The timing fits in nicely, as the pint-sized 500 is due to go on sale in the US from the end of this year.
The SEMA concept car (which will no doubt rile the Abarth folks) features a number of unique parts created by the Mopar Underground team, including a front airdam/lip, lower sill, spoiler, rear valance and brake ducts.
Its stance is appreciably beefed up by a lowered ride height, 18-inch Alcoa wheels and flared wheel arches reminiscent of the Fiat 500 models that dominated race tracks in Europe back in the day.
The Dark Thunderbolt Gray paintwork is juxtaposed with a black roof, black bonnet and blacked-out headlamp and fascia graphics. A lower side sill, also in black, adorns the sides.
The interior is "driver-focused", with a red seat and red door insert on the driver's side, with piano-black accents on the instrument panel. The remainder of the interior is outfitted in a subdued black.
Mopar bolt-ons include a custom exhaust system that allegedly provides horsepower and torque gains and a strut tower brace that's claimed to reduce body flex and improve handling.
Also among Chrysler's SEMA showstoppers is the Dodge Challenger 392 (the blue coupe pictured in the accompanying gallery), complete with a 6.4-litre V8 producing 351kW and 637Nm torque. In addition, drag racing fans will be able to drool all over the new Challenger Drag Pak V10 (the black-and-white liveried car).
As the name suggests, the Drag Pak is equipped with all the hardware required for quarter-mile heroics, including a V10 purloined from the brutal Dodge Viper, a two-speed transmission, roll cage, fuel cell and unique gauge cluster.
Best of all, the Challengers are billed as actual production models, rather than flight-of-fancy concepts.
Only marginally less muscle-bound is the RedLine Dodge Charger. The RedLine Charger brings the 2011 version of the popular vehicle lower to the ground via sports suspension, and tucked under the aluminium bonnet is a 5.7-liter Hemi engine that cops headers, a free-flow exhaust system and cold-air intake for horsepower and torque gains.
There's also a Mopar strut tower brace, which in the company's words, "amps up the handling and driveability needed to corral the additional horsepower".
The RedLine Charger's power is said to match its stealthy silhouette, which is distinguished by a black roof, front lower and rear-end treatment and carbonfibre mirror caps.
Further bespoke touches include a carbonfibre lower air dam/splitter and rear spoiler, and blacked-out headlamps and tail lamps. It rides on 22-inch staggered-width Super Alloy wheels shod with massive Pirelli gumballs.
Recalling Dodge Charger's legendary heritage is a side scoop reminiscent of the scoop on the 1970 Dodge Charger R/T. The black side scoop is emblazoned with a red R/T logo, offering a nice tie-in to the RedLine Red paint that adorns the RedLine Charger.
It doesn't end there as the Mopar mob is using the SEMA exhibition to show off (among other vehicles) the Jeep Wrangler Sahara Mopar Edition, the Jeep Street Cherokee and the Jeep Grand Cherokee Off-Road Edition -- each of which is laden to the hilt with aftermarket goodies.
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site...
discount new cars » Get the best price on a new Chrysler
Fiat and Chrysler are strengthening their ties, so it's perhaps fitting that the latter's Mopar (parts and servicing) arm has prepared an extreme Fiat 500 for the upcoming SEMA (Specialty Equipment Market Association) show.
The blinged-up Bambino will be among 35 vehicles wheeled out by Chrysler at the annual Las Vegas-based aftermarket extravaganza, which takes place on Nov 2-5. The timing fits in nicely, as the pint-sized 500 is due to go on sale in the US from the end of this year.
The SEMA concept car (which will no doubt rile the Abarth folks) features a number of unique parts created by the Mopar Underground team, including a front airdam/lip, lower sill, spoiler, rear valance and brake ducts.
Its stance is appreciably beefed up by a lowered ride height, 18-inch Alcoa wheels and flared wheel arches reminiscent of the Fiat 500 models that dominated race tracks in Europe back in the day.
The Dark Thunderbolt Gray paintwork is juxtaposed with a black roof, black bonnet and blacked-out headlamp and fascia graphics. A lower side sill, also in black, adorns the sides.
The interior is "driver-focused", with a red seat and red door insert on the driver's side, with piano-black accents on the instrument panel. The remainder of the interior is outfitted in a subdued black.
Mopar bolt-ons include a custom exhaust system that allegedly provides horsepower and torque gains and a strut tower brace that's claimed to reduce body flex and improve handling.
Also among Chrysler's SEMA showstoppers is the Dodge Challenger 392 (the blue coupe pictured in the accompanying gallery), complete with a 6.4-litre V8 producing 351kW and 637Nm torque. In addition, drag racing fans will be able to drool all over the new Challenger Drag Pak V10 (the black-and-white liveried car).
As the name suggests, the Drag Pak is equipped with all the hardware required for quarter-mile heroics, including a V10 purloined from the brutal Dodge Viper, a two-speed transmission, roll cage, fuel cell and unique gauge cluster.
Best of all, the Challengers are billed as actual production models, rather than flight-of-fancy concepts.
Only marginally less muscle-bound is the RedLine Dodge Charger. The RedLine Charger brings the 2011 version of the popular vehicle lower to the ground via sports suspension, and tucked under the aluminium bonnet is a 5.7-liter Hemi engine that cops headers, a free-flow exhaust system and cold-air intake for horsepower and torque gains.
There's also a Mopar strut tower brace, which in the company's words, "amps up the handling and driveability needed to corral the additional horsepower".
The RedLine Charger's power is said to match its stealthy silhouette, which is distinguished by a black roof, front lower and rear-end treatment and carbonfibre mirror caps.
Further bespoke touches include a carbonfibre lower air dam/splitter and rear spoiler, and blacked-out headlamps and tail lamps. It rides on 22-inch staggered-width Super Alloy wheels shod with massive Pirelli gumballs.
Recalling Dodge Charger's legendary heritage is a side scoop reminiscent of the scoop on the 1970 Dodge Charger R/T. The black side scoop is emblazoned with a red R/T logo, offering a nice tie-in to the RedLine Red paint that adorns the RedLine Charger.
It doesn't end there as the Mopar mob is using the SEMA exhibition to show off (among other vehicles) the Jeep Wrangler Sahara Mopar Edition, the Jeep Street Cherokee and the Jeep Grand Cherokee Off-Road Edition -- each of which is laden to the hilt with aftermarket goodies.
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site...
Thứ Hai, 26 tháng 3, 2012
Porsche's Cajun cookin'
Stuttgart officially announces development of a new small SUV aimed at a younger demographic
prestige new cars » Get the best price on a new Porsche
Porsche AG today officially confirmed it is planning on bringing a new, smaller-than-Cayenne SUV to market.
Under the working title "Cajun" the little Porsche SUV will aim at a younger demographic and a lower entry price. Although the press release confirming it has given the green light to the new car games is sparse on details (the image hereabouts is a com-gen from our friends at Carparazzi), the company did say the sub-Cayenne SUV will have "typical Porsche features such as light weight, ease of handling and agility."
The exact size of the new Porsche SUV, and the powertrains to be employed, are wide open to speculation, but it would be reasonable to expect it will draw heavily from Audi-VW parts bins -- not to mention existing smaller SUVs within the Teutonic empire, including the Audi Q5 and VW Tiguan (remember the Porsche Cayenne was co-developed with the VW Touareg).
That said, the Q5, which essentially is built off the Audi A4, is a fair bit bigger -- and therefore a more likely prospect -- than the Golf-based VW Tiguan.
If that was indeed the scenario, clear driveline choices would include 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo petrol and turbodiesel engines, 3.0-litre turbodiesel V6 and 3.2-litre turbo petrol V6.
However given the distinct drivetrain separation between Porsche Cayenne and VW Touareg, it would be reasonable to expect Stuttgart to actively work on stamping its new SUV with a clearly individual identity.
Porsche family engines including the Porsche V8-derived V6 available in Panamera could ostensibly be factored in -- although the transverse installation requirements of an Audi Q5-based Porsche would obviously require a degree of re-engineering.
What could prove interesting is Porsche's decision on drive systems. Given that many SUV makers today are moving towards giving buyers a choice between all-wheel drive or two-wheel drive, it could well be that Porsche will do a BMW X1 and drag entry prices down to the point where they are more accessible than any previous product from Stuttgart.
Given that the base version of Porsche's Cayenne SUV starts at around $103,000 pre on-road costs and the top-level Audi Q5 is around $76,000, it would be easy to speculate that an entry-level Cajun could be tagged below $100,000.
Prospects for Australia are uncertain at this early stage, but the Cajun is touted as a world car and left and right-hand drive versions could be developed jointly for a world-wide launch in 2013. If that was the case, Australian introduction of what could be an extremely attractive model for the local Porsche operation could follow shortly after, maybe before the end of the same year.
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at the carsales mobile site.
prestige new cars » Get the best price on a new Porsche
Porsche AG today officially confirmed it is planning on bringing a new, smaller-than-Cayenne SUV to market.
Under the working title "Cajun" the little Porsche SUV will aim at a younger demographic and a lower entry price. Although the press release confirming it has given the green light to the new car games is sparse on details (the image hereabouts is a com-gen from our friends at Carparazzi), the company did say the sub-Cayenne SUV will have "typical Porsche features such as light weight, ease of handling and agility."
The exact size of the new Porsche SUV, and the powertrains to be employed, are wide open to speculation, but it would be reasonable to expect it will draw heavily from Audi-VW parts bins -- not to mention existing smaller SUVs within the Teutonic empire, including the Audi Q5 and VW Tiguan (remember the Porsche Cayenne was co-developed with the VW Touareg).
That said, the Q5, which essentially is built off the Audi A4, is a fair bit bigger -- and therefore a more likely prospect -- than the Golf-based VW Tiguan.
If that was indeed the scenario, clear driveline choices would include 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo petrol and turbodiesel engines, 3.0-litre turbodiesel V6 and 3.2-litre turbo petrol V6.
However given the distinct drivetrain separation between Porsche Cayenne and VW Touareg, it would be reasonable to expect Stuttgart to actively work on stamping its new SUV with a clearly individual identity.
Porsche family engines including the Porsche V8-derived V6 available in Panamera could ostensibly be factored in -- although the transverse installation requirements of an Audi Q5-based Porsche would obviously require a degree of re-engineering.
What could prove interesting is Porsche's decision on drive systems. Given that many SUV makers today are moving towards giving buyers a choice between all-wheel drive or two-wheel drive, it could well be that Porsche will do a BMW X1 and drag entry prices down to the point where they are more accessible than any previous product from Stuttgart.
Given that the base version of Porsche's Cayenne SUV starts at around $103,000 pre on-road costs and the top-level Audi Q5 is around $76,000, it would be easy to speculate that an entry-level Cajun could be tagged below $100,000.
Prospects for Australia are uncertain at this early stage, but the Cajun is touted as a world car and left and right-hand drive versions could be developed jointly for a world-wide launch in 2013. If that was the case, Australian introduction of what could be an extremely attractive model for the local Porsche operation could follow shortly after, maybe before the end of the same year.
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at the carsales mobile site.
Audi TT GT4 Concept
German luxury car maker accelerates its motorsports program by unveiling 'affordable' $160,000 ready-to-race coupe in China
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The Audi TT could become a weapon of choice for semi-professional racers if the new GT4 Concept is anything to go by. Unveiled at the 2010 DTM race in Shanghai, the GT4 Concept will be priced at around €120,000 (AU$163,000) and is good for 250 kilowatts of power.
Power is routed through an S-Tronic twin-clutch gearbox. The new model is pencilled in as a production model for 2012, designed to "extend Audi's new modular customer sport program from 2012 forward," according to the German car maker.
It's clear to see from the images that Ingolstadt's new TT is not your garden variety German prestige coupe -- a range of ventilation aids in and around the bonnet evidence of its improved cooling systems and the lowered ride height adding to its Playstation appeal.
Underneath the skin, the Audi TT GT4 Concept features a roll cage, along with a "safety-optimised fuel tank box" plus a diff lock and modified production suspension that comes with adjustable dampers to allow for minor chassis tuning.
Riding on 9.5 x 18-inch light alloy wheels, the Audi TT GT4 Concept was driven by five-time Le Mans winner Frank Biela around the street circuit in Shanghai. While the new GT4 Concept uses the front and rear aprons plus the rear wing from the production version Audi TT RS, it replaces the road-legal metal bonnet, boot lid and doors with carbon fibre reinforced plastic panels to reduce weight.
Like all good race cars the interior is completely stripped out and Recaro bucket seats replace the luxury leather pews of the street car.
Though €120,000 ($163,000) may sound expensive, it is comparatively affordable in the world of ready-to-race motor cars, and is an indication of Audi's intent to push its motorsports activities. At this stage the car is intended for European sales only.
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site.
prestige new cars » Get the best price on a new Audi
The Audi TT could become a weapon of choice for semi-professional racers if the new GT4 Concept is anything to go by. Unveiled at the 2010 DTM race in Shanghai, the GT4 Concept will be priced at around €120,000 (AU$163,000) and is good for 250 kilowatts of power.
Power is routed through an S-Tronic twin-clutch gearbox. The new model is pencilled in as a production model for 2012, designed to "extend Audi's new modular customer sport program from 2012 forward," according to the German car maker.
It's clear to see from the images that Ingolstadt's new TT is not your garden variety German prestige coupe -- a range of ventilation aids in and around the bonnet evidence of its improved cooling systems and the lowered ride height adding to its Playstation appeal.
Underneath the skin, the Audi TT GT4 Concept features a roll cage, along with a "safety-optimised fuel tank box" plus a diff lock and modified production suspension that comes with adjustable dampers to allow for minor chassis tuning.
Riding on 9.5 x 18-inch light alloy wheels, the Audi TT GT4 Concept was driven by five-time Le Mans winner Frank Biela around the street circuit in Shanghai. While the new GT4 Concept uses the front and rear aprons plus the rear wing from the production version Audi TT RS, it replaces the road-legal metal bonnet, boot lid and doors with carbon fibre reinforced plastic panels to reduce weight.
Like all good race cars the interior is completely stripped out and Recaro bucket seats replace the luxury leather pews of the street car.
Though €120,000 ($163,000) may sound expensive, it is comparatively affordable in the world of ready-to-race motor cars, and is an indication of Audi's intent to push its motorsports activities. At this stage the car is intended for European sales only.
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site.
Win a Nissan Patrol and CUB Camper Trailer
With a prize pool worth more than $115,000, this is a competition you don't want to miss
discount new cars » Get the best price on a new Nissan
Looking to get away on an outback adventure but don't have the equipment? Well, here's where we can help. Carsales.com.au, Pat Callinan's 4x4 Adventures and Nissan have joined forces to give away a huge adventure 4WD prize pool worth more than $115,000!
The major prize comprises a Nissan Patrol ST and a $25,000 CUB Supermatic Offroad Camper Trailer. But that's not all, in addition to the truck and trailer combo there's enough accessories to ensure you'll never be left wanting out in the bush.
The pack includes a Viking Kayak ($990), a pair of Oztrail camping gear swags ($798) a Yamaha generator ($2189) six Cooper ATR Tyres ($3000), an Exedy Clutch Safari Clutch ($2000), plus an ExplorOz Package including navigation, membership and apparel ($612). Then there's a Glind Shower ($499), a HEMA Navigator ($990) and a very handy ARB Gift Voucher worth $10,000.
But wait, there's more... Also included is a 4WD Storage Draw System ($1821), a Blue Dog Clothing Gift Voucher ($500), a Hi TV Gift Voucher ($1600), a Home Hardware gift Voucher ($1000), an ICom IC-440 Radio ($493), Lifesaver bottle and Jerry Can ($855), two sets of MAXTRAX ($690), Pat Callinans 4x4 Adventure box set DVD ($109), a Redarc BCDC and BMS ($2090), plus a SPOT Device ($279), a THULE Gift Voucher ($750), and a two-year subscription to 4x4 Australia Magazine ($159).
And if you're not lucky enough to grab the big one, there are also four runner-up prizes of two DVD box sets of Pat Callinan's 4x4 Advetnures.
To enter the "carsales & Pat Calillinan's 4x4 Adventures" competition go to the 4x4 giveaway page and simply enter your name and email address! Yep, it's that easy...
The competition is open only to Australian residents who are 18 year of age or older and entries close on March 31, 2011. Full details and terms and conditions are available on the site.
discount new cars » Get the best price on a new Nissan
Looking to get away on an outback adventure but don't have the equipment? Well, here's where we can help. Carsales.com.au, Pat Callinan's 4x4 Adventures and Nissan have joined forces to give away a huge adventure 4WD prize pool worth more than $115,000!
The major prize comprises a Nissan Patrol ST and a $25,000 CUB Supermatic Offroad Camper Trailer. But that's not all, in addition to the truck and trailer combo there's enough accessories to ensure you'll never be left wanting out in the bush.
The pack includes a Viking Kayak ($990), a pair of Oztrail camping gear swags ($798) a Yamaha generator ($2189) six Cooper ATR Tyres ($3000), an Exedy Clutch Safari Clutch ($2000), plus an ExplorOz Package including navigation, membership and apparel ($612). Then there's a Glind Shower ($499), a HEMA Navigator ($990) and a very handy ARB Gift Voucher worth $10,000.
But wait, there's more... Also included is a 4WD Storage Draw System ($1821), a Blue Dog Clothing Gift Voucher ($500), a Hi TV Gift Voucher ($1600), a Home Hardware gift Voucher ($1000), an ICom IC-440 Radio ($493), Lifesaver bottle and Jerry Can ($855), two sets of MAXTRAX ($690), Pat Callinans 4x4 Adventure box set DVD ($109), a Redarc BCDC and BMS ($2090), plus a SPOT Device ($279), a THULE Gift Voucher ($750), and a two-year subscription to 4x4 Australia Magazine ($159).
And if you're not lucky enough to grab the big one, there are also four runner-up prizes of two DVD box sets of Pat Callinan's 4x4 Advetnures.
To enter the "carsales & Pat Calillinan's 4x4 Adventures" competition go to the 4x4 giveaway page and simply enter your name and email address! Yep, it's that easy...
The competition is open only to Australian residents who are 18 year of age or older and entries close on March 31, 2011. Full details and terms and conditions are available on the site.
Skoda - once more, with Felicia
Does Skoda have a sedan version in store for its future Octavia lineup? And will it resurrect the Felicia nameplate?
discount new cars » Get the best price on a new Skoda
Will Skoda broaden its range over the next two years with the introduction of a five-door Octavia hatch into the range to sell alongside a resurrection of the dead-for-a-decade Felicia nameplate applied to a four-door sedan and a wagon?
Reports from far-flung Skoda markets suggest the Czech car-maker is beavering away at its next-generation Octavia, from whence will spring Felicia sedan and Octavia hatchback variants duplicating what Volkswagen does with Golf/Jetta. Then, also Golf style, there are stories circulating of a (Felicia) wagon as well.
The sedan and wagon seen in the Carparazzi renderings are touted to be a new-generation Octavia reborn as the Felicia with a European launch date, for the sedan, maybe as far out as 2013. The wagon is further away again, with the likely date tipped to be 2014.
Our renderings from Carparazzi show what the next generation small Skoda, in sedan and wagon form (both labelled Felicia), might look like. The Golf/Jetta connections are obvious -- the former (wagon) in the former and the latter in the latter. Renderings of a hatchback Octavia version are yet to appear.
If this scenario develops into reality, Skoda in Australia will be given a more workable range that should help improve its market penetration. Should the company successfully mirror Volkswagen, the hatch (Octavia) will be the volume seller, while the sedan (Felicia) would be seen as slightly upmarket.
All this is on top of the knowledge Skoda in Australia has the Polo-sized Fabia on its wish list as an entry level contender that would allow it access to a more youthful end of the market than it currently enjoys with the Octavia and Superb ranges.
Read the latest Cars games ales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at the carsales mobile site.
discount new cars » Get the best price on a new Skoda
Will Skoda broaden its range over the next two years with the introduction of a five-door Octavia hatch into the range to sell alongside a resurrection of the dead-for-a-decade Felicia nameplate applied to a four-door sedan and a wagon?
Reports from far-flung Skoda markets suggest the Czech car-maker is beavering away at its next-generation Octavia, from whence will spring Felicia sedan and Octavia hatchback variants duplicating what Volkswagen does with Golf/Jetta. Then, also Golf style, there are stories circulating of a (Felicia) wagon as well.
The sedan and wagon seen in the Carparazzi renderings are touted to be a new-generation Octavia reborn as the Felicia with a European launch date, for the sedan, maybe as far out as 2013. The wagon is further away again, with the likely date tipped to be 2014.
Our renderings from Carparazzi show what the next generation small Skoda, in sedan and wagon form (both labelled Felicia), might look like. The Golf/Jetta connections are obvious -- the former (wagon) in the former and the latter in the latter. Renderings of a hatchback Octavia version are yet to appear.
If this scenario develops into reality, Skoda in Australia will be given a more workable range that should help improve its market penetration. Should the company successfully mirror Volkswagen, the hatch (Octavia) will be the volume seller, while the sedan (Felicia) would be seen as slightly upmarket.
All this is on top of the knowledge Skoda in Australia has the Polo-sized Fabia on its wish list as an entry level contender that would allow it access to a more youthful end of the market than it currently enjoys with the Octavia and Superb ranges.
Read the latest Cars games ales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at the carsales mobile site.
Skoda - once more, with Felicia
Does Skoda have a sedan version in store for its future Octavia lineup? And will it resurrect the Felicia nameplate?
discount new cars » Get the best price on a new Skoda
Will Skoda broaden its range over the next two years with the introduction of a five-door Octavia hatch into the range to sell alongside a resurrection of the dead-for-a-decade Felicia nameplate applied to a four-door sedan and a wagon?
Reports from far-flung Skoda markets suggest the Czech car-maker is beavering away at its next-generation Octavia, from whence will spring Felicia sedan and Octavia hatchback variants duplicating what Volkswagen does with Golf/Jetta. Then, also Golf style, there are stories circulating of a (Felicia) wagon as well.
The sedan and wagon seen in the Carparazzi renderings are touted to be a new-generation Octavia reborn as the Felicia with a European launch date, for the sedan, maybe as far out as 2013. The wagon is further away again, with the likely date tipped to be 2014.
Our renderings from Carparazzi show what the next generation small Skoda, in sedan and wagon form (both labelled Felicia), might look like. The Golf/Jetta connections are obvious -- the former (wagon) in the former and the latter in the latter. Renderings of a hatchback Octavia version are yet to appear.
If this scenario develops into reality, Skoda in Australia will be given a more workable range that should help improve its market penetration. Should the company successfully mirror Volkswagen, the hatch (Octavia) will be the volume seller, while the sedan (Felicia) would be seen as slightly upmarket.
All this is on top of the knowledge Skoda in Australia has the Polo-sized Fabia on its wish list as an entry level contender that would allow it access to a more youthful end of the market than it currently enjoys with the Octavia and Superb ranges.
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at the carsales mobile site.
discount new cars » Get the best price on a new Skoda
Will Skoda broaden its range over the next two years with the introduction of a five-door Octavia hatch into the range to sell alongside a resurrection of the dead-for-a-decade Felicia nameplate applied to a four-door sedan and a wagon?
Reports from far-flung Skoda markets suggest the Czech car-maker is beavering away at its next-generation Octavia, from whence will spring Felicia sedan and Octavia hatchback variants duplicating what Volkswagen does with Golf/Jetta. Then, also Golf style, there are stories circulating of a (Felicia) wagon as well.
The sedan and wagon seen in the Carparazzi renderings are touted to be a new-generation Octavia reborn as the Felicia with a European launch date, for the sedan, maybe as far out as 2013. The wagon is further away again, with the likely date tipped to be 2014.
Our renderings from Carparazzi show what the next generation small Skoda, in sedan and wagon form (both labelled Felicia), might look like. The Golf/Jetta connections are obvious -- the former (wagon) in the former and the latter in the latter. Renderings of a hatchback Octavia version are yet to appear.
If this scenario develops into reality, Skoda in Australia will be given a more workable range that should help improve its market penetration. Should the company successfully mirror Volkswagen, the hatch (Octavia) will be the volume seller, while the sedan (Felicia) would be seen as slightly upmarket.
All this is on top of the knowledge Skoda in Australia has the Polo-sized Fabia on its wish list as an entry level contender that would allow it access to a more youthful end of the market than it currently enjoys with the Octavia and Superb ranges.
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Volvo to test self-driving cars
Swedish carmaker to test autonomous cars in 2011, with public use possible in just five years
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Cars that drive themselves could be just five years away according to Volvo's senior technical advisor at the Volvo Cars Safety Centre, Thomas Broberg.
During a recent presentation of the Volvo S60's pedestrian detection and braking system in Melbourne, Broberg confirmed that Volvo will begin trialling a new car 'following' system in 2011. The system would involve one lead car "driven by a professional" behind which several automated cars would follow closely, allowing the drivers of following cars to take their hands away from the wheel.
"Next year we will try this automated system on private roads and then public roads... We think this technology could be five to 10 years away," Broberg told the Carsales Network
The project is called Safe Road Trains for the Environment (SARTRE). The system uses automated 'follow' cars have the capacity to tag along much more closely behind other cars, trucks and the like. Volvo claims it could "improve traffic flow and journey times, offer greater comfort to drivers, reduce accidents, and improve fuel consumption and hence lower CO2 emissions."
Broberg said that drivers could "catch up news and emails during the daily drive to work," instead of stressing out in stop-start traffic conditions.
Broberg wouldn't be drawn on whether the new SARTRE systems would be safer than cars being driven individually by human drivers, but did concede that they would be more predictable than cars being driven by individual drivers.
"The next step will be when cars communicate with each other and with infrastructure. When will that happen? Probably sooner rather than later," he opined.
"This leap will be driven by customer need. In the future there will be a need to stay in communication and when you get that platform and that infrastructure in place, then you can add safety technology into that. And I don't think we can even imagine what we're able to do with that," concluded Broberg.
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Cars that drive themselves could be just five years away according to Volvo's senior technical advisor at the Volvo Cars Safety Centre, Thomas Broberg.
During a recent presentation of the Volvo S60's pedestrian detection and braking system in Melbourne, Broberg confirmed that Volvo will begin trialling a new car 'following' system in 2011. The system would involve one lead car "driven by a professional" behind which several automated cars would follow closely, allowing the drivers of following cars to take their hands away from the wheel.
"Next year we will try this automated system on private roads and then public roads... We think this technology could be five to 10 years away," Broberg told the Carsales Network
The project is called Safe Road Trains for the Environment (SARTRE). The system uses automated 'follow' cars have the capacity to tag along much more closely behind other cars, trucks and the like. Volvo claims it could "improve traffic flow and journey times, offer greater comfort to drivers, reduce accidents, and improve fuel consumption and hence lower CO2 emissions."
Broberg said that drivers could "catch up news and emails during the daily drive to work," instead of stressing out in stop-start traffic conditions.
Broberg wouldn't be drawn on whether the new SARTRE systems would be safer than cars being driven individually by human drivers, but did concede that they would be more predictable than cars being driven by individual drivers.
"The next step will be when cars communicate with each other and with infrastructure. When will that happen? Probably sooner rather than later," he opined.
"This leap will be driven by customer need. In the future there will be a need to stay in communication and when you get that platform and that infrastructure in place, then you can add safety technology into that. And I don't think we can even imagine what we're able to do with that," concluded Broberg.
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site.
Thứ Năm, 22 tháng 3, 2012
Maserati school of speed
The 'Master Maserati' driving school offers driving instruction from ex-Formula One and WRC drivers
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Ever wanted to speed around European racetracks at warp speed behind the wheel of an exotic Italian? Your chance could be nigh, as Maserati has announced its 2011 'Master Maserati' driving school programme.
The Maserato driving school courses are conducted at the Varano de Melegari race track which, fittingly, is in Italy near Parma. Maserati says that students will be taught "under the guidance of drivers drawn from Formula One, the World Rally Championship, Indy car games and European touring car championships".
Various cars are employed during the schooling, including the Maserati GranTurismo S, Quattroporte S and Sport GTS models -- and all cars are kitted out with telemetry and data acquisition systems so every single brake pedal press and steering wheel turn can be analysed after the event.
"With the addition of the Master Maserati MC Trofeo driving course, we are now able to offer the experience and training right across the full Maserati driving spectrum," says Glen Sealey, General Manager of Maserati Australia and New Zealand.
"Maserati now offer courses for owners who are new to Maserati ownership and wish to hone their driving skills so that they may fully enjoy the excitement and pleasure of supercar ownership. There are then three different courses aimed at developing and enhancing driving skills up to the highest level, the Master High Performance Course, for road cars."
Priced at 2150 Euros for the introductory course to 4400 Euros for the MC Trofeo course, interested parties can book through their nearest Maserati dealer, though it should be noted that the price does not include airfares.
Interestingly, the MC Trofeo course gives students the chance to drive racing cars, a first for Maserati. These race-prepped cars are based on the Maserati GranTurismo, as Sealey explains: "New for 2011, the Master MC Trofeo course is more than just an experience of what it's like to get behind the wheel of racing car. It includes lessons from experts in racing techniques and skills for drivers contemplating taking their love of performance driving to the level of full competition or for drivers who want a deeper understanding of what is happening when they are watching motorsport. Either way, the Maserati Master MC Trofeo course is a unique and unforgettable experience."
As well as race track experience, the Master Maserati courses also teach participants "...to learn more about the capabilities of the Maserati range and learn skills and techniques that are relevant to the day to day use of Maserati supercars..."
Drivers keen on driving Maserati race cars in Italy should contact their nearest dealer via the Maserati.com.au website.
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site.
prestige new cars » Get the best price on a new Maserati
Ever wanted to speed around European racetracks at warp speed behind the wheel of an exotic Italian? Your chance could be nigh, as Maserati has announced its 2011 'Master Maserati' driving school programme.
The Maserato driving school courses are conducted at the Varano de Melegari race track which, fittingly, is in Italy near Parma. Maserati says that students will be taught "under the guidance of drivers drawn from Formula One, the World Rally Championship, Indy car games and European touring car championships".
Various cars are employed during the schooling, including the Maserati GranTurismo S, Quattroporte S and Sport GTS models -- and all cars are kitted out with telemetry and data acquisition systems so every single brake pedal press and steering wheel turn can be analysed after the event.
"With the addition of the Master Maserati MC Trofeo driving course, we are now able to offer the experience and training right across the full Maserati driving spectrum," says Glen Sealey, General Manager of Maserati Australia and New Zealand.
"Maserati now offer courses for owners who are new to Maserati ownership and wish to hone their driving skills so that they may fully enjoy the excitement and pleasure of supercar ownership. There are then three different courses aimed at developing and enhancing driving skills up to the highest level, the Master High Performance Course, for road cars."
Priced at 2150 Euros for the introductory course to 4400 Euros for the MC Trofeo course, interested parties can book through their nearest Maserati dealer, though it should be noted that the price does not include airfares.
Interestingly, the MC Trofeo course gives students the chance to drive racing cars, a first for Maserati. These race-prepped cars are based on the Maserati GranTurismo, as Sealey explains: "New for 2011, the Master MC Trofeo course is more than just an experience of what it's like to get behind the wheel of racing car. It includes lessons from experts in racing techniques and skills for drivers contemplating taking their love of performance driving to the level of full competition or for drivers who want a deeper understanding of what is happening when they are watching motorsport. Either way, the Maserati Master MC Trofeo course is a unique and unforgettable experience."
As well as race track experience, the Master Maserati courses also teach participants "...to learn more about the capabilities of the Maserati range and learn skills and techniques that are relevant to the day to day use of Maserati supercars..."
Drivers keen on driving Maserati race cars in Italy should contact their nearest dealer via the Maserati.com.au website.
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site.
Citroen aims for repeat performance with DS3 WRC
Twin-chevron marque aims to remain at the pointy end of the WRC field as new regulations kick in
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The World Rally Championship has been a virtual Citroen benefit for the past several years, and the French manufacturer has designs on again steamrolling the opposition in the 2011 championship.
Pictured alongside is the brand-new DS3 WRC, which may well extend the marque’s stranglehold on the manufacturers' title in the hands of the peerless Sebastien Loeb and Daniel Elena, who will be gunning for their eighth successive drivers' title.
They'll be backed up by Sebastien Ogier and Julien Ingrassia, who have been promoted full-time to the works squad after an impressive run in 2010 that saw them notch up two victories.
Three more Citroen DS3 WRCs will be driven by privateers -- 2003 champ Petter Solberg, ex-F1 ace Kimi Raikkonen and Peter van Merksteijn.
Solberg and co-driver Chris Patterson will start all 13 rounds, Raikkonen and Kaj Lindstrom will do 10 rallies, while van Merksteijn and Eddy Chevaillier will start their season at the Portuguese Rally (March 24-27).
The DS3 WRC has illustrious wheeltracks to fill as the Xsara and C4 that preceded it racked up three manufacturers' world titles each. The first proof whether the newbie is dud or demon will be provided at the Swedish Rally (February 10-13).
Team boss Olivier Quesnel has made clear his goal of retaining the manufacturers' and drivers' titles in the WRC, which this year debuts new regulations, most notably in relation to the dimensions of the cars.
The DS3 WRC is more compact than the C4, which, according to Citroen, gives it "much more spectacular behaviour".
The revolution continues under the bonnet with the car powered by a 1.6-litre turbocharged direct-injection four-cylinder engine, designed in-house by Citroen Racing.
The engine is coupled to a four-wheel drive transmission with a manually controlled sequential gearbox and a constant power sharing system between the front and rear axles.
Although publicly unveiled at last September's Paris Motor Show, Citroen says the DS3 WRC has since undergone multiple test sessions to be ready for the nine-month season consisting of 13 rallies.
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site...
discount new cars » Get the best price on a new Citroen
The World Rally Championship has been a virtual Citroen benefit for the past several years, and the French manufacturer has designs on again steamrolling the opposition in the 2011 championship.
Pictured alongside is the brand-new DS3 WRC, which may well extend the marque’s stranglehold on the manufacturers' title in the hands of the peerless Sebastien Loeb and Daniel Elena, who will be gunning for their eighth successive drivers' title.
They'll be backed up by Sebastien Ogier and Julien Ingrassia, who have been promoted full-time to the works squad after an impressive run in 2010 that saw them notch up two victories.
Three more Citroen DS3 WRCs will be driven by privateers -- 2003 champ Petter Solberg, ex-F1 ace Kimi Raikkonen and Peter van Merksteijn.
Solberg and co-driver Chris Patterson will start all 13 rounds, Raikkonen and Kaj Lindstrom will do 10 rallies, while van Merksteijn and Eddy Chevaillier will start their season at the Portuguese Rally (March 24-27).
The DS3 WRC has illustrious wheeltracks to fill as the Xsara and C4 that preceded it racked up three manufacturers' world titles each. The first proof whether the newbie is dud or demon will be provided at the Swedish Rally (February 10-13).
Team boss Olivier Quesnel has made clear his goal of retaining the manufacturers' and drivers' titles in the WRC, which this year debuts new regulations, most notably in relation to the dimensions of the cars.
The DS3 WRC is more compact than the C4, which, according to Citroen, gives it "much more spectacular behaviour".
The revolution continues under the bonnet with the car powered by a 1.6-litre turbocharged direct-injection four-cylinder engine, designed in-house by Citroen Racing.
The engine is coupled to a four-wheel drive transmission with a manually controlled sequential gearbox and a constant power sharing system between the front and rear axles.
Although publicly unveiled at last September's Paris Motor Show, Citroen says the DS3 WRC has since undergone multiple test sessions to be ready for the nine-month season consisting of 13 rallies.
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site...
Volvo V60 Plug-In Hybrid promises 1.9l/100km
Swedish manufacturer will unveil its V60 plug-in Hybrid at Geneva next month
Volvo's V60 wagon Plug-in Hybrid will take pride of place on the company's stand at the Geneva motor show next month. Boasting an impressive green emissions rating and smell-of-an-oily-rag fuel consumption, the V60 plug-in is not your run-of-the-mill hybrid.
Based on the conventional V60, the hybrid's front wheels will be driven by a five-cylinder 2.4-litre D5 turbodiesel, which produces 160 kW and maximum torque of 440 Nm. At the rear axle supplementary drive is provided by Volvo's Electric Rear Axle Drive (ERAD) -- an electric motor producing 52kW, receiving its power from a 12kW lithium-ion battery pack. The car features a six-speed automatic transmission.
"In order to get true car enthusiasts to think green, you have to offer them the opportunity to drive with low carbon dioxide emissions without taking away the adrenaline rush that promotes genuine driving pleasure. The V60 Plug-in Hybrid has all the traditional properties of a genuine sports wagon. What we've done is to spice it up with spearhead technology," Volvo CEO, Stefan Jacoby was quoted as saying in a press release.
The "Sports Wagon" V60 Plug-in will be one of the first to hit the market based on this new breed of hybrid technology, planned for a 2012 release. According to Volvo, the V60 Plug-in Hybrid features the very best properties from three different car types in one, single sports wagon. This includes the option to drive for up to 50 kilometres on pure electricity.
According to Volvo, the car will also produce carbon-dioxide emissions below 50g/km and an average fuel consumption of just 1.9l/100km.
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site...
Volvo's V60 wagon Plug-in Hybrid will take pride of place on the company's stand at the Geneva motor show next month. Boasting an impressive green emissions rating and smell-of-an-oily-rag fuel consumption, the V60 plug-in is not your run-of-the-mill hybrid.
Based on the conventional V60, the hybrid's front wheels will be driven by a five-cylinder 2.4-litre D5 turbodiesel, which produces 160 kW and maximum torque of 440 Nm. At the rear axle supplementary drive is provided by Volvo's Electric Rear Axle Drive (ERAD) -- an electric motor producing 52kW, receiving its power from a 12kW lithium-ion battery pack. The car features a six-speed automatic transmission.
"In order to get true car enthusiasts to think green, you have to offer them the opportunity to drive with low carbon dioxide emissions without taking away the adrenaline rush that promotes genuine driving pleasure. The V60 Plug-in Hybrid has all the traditional properties of a genuine sports wagon. What we've done is to spice it up with spearhead technology," Volvo CEO, Stefan Jacoby was quoted as saying in a press release.
The "Sports Wagon" V60 Plug-in will be one of the first to hit the market based on this new breed of hybrid technology, planned for a 2012 release. According to Volvo, the V60 Plug-in Hybrid features the very best properties from three different car types in one, single sports wagon. This includes the option to drive for up to 50 kilometres on pure electricity.
According to Volvo, the car will also produce carbon-dioxide emissions below 50g/km and an average fuel consumption of just 1.9l/100km.
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site...
Thứ Sáu, 16 tháng 3, 2012
Toyota Oz officially waives recalls
Australia not affected by overseas Toyota and Lexus recall campaigns
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Toyota Motor Corporation has again advised its Australian customers that Toyota and Lexus vehicles sold in Australia are not affected by the latest round of safety recalls announced overseas.
The company has emphasised that the campaign only affects selected left-hand drive vehicles.
Those familiar to with the story will be remember Toyota's extensive 2010 campaign that saw some 1.7 million vehicles recalled as unintended acceleration issues were addressed. The latest campaign addresses floor carpet covers, plastic pads and all-weather floor mats specifically designed for LHD drive vehicles.
Toyota Australia and Lexus Australia have inspected its local vehicle range and confirmed that the conditions leading to the recall do not affect right hand drive vehicles (RHD) sold in Australia.
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Toyota Motor Corporation has again advised its Australian customers that Toyota and Lexus vehicles sold in Australia are not affected by the latest round of safety recalls announced overseas.
The company has emphasised that the campaign only affects selected left-hand drive vehicles.
Those familiar to with the story will be remember Toyota's extensive 2010 campaign that saw some 1.7 million vehicles recalled as unintended acceleration issues were addressed. The latest campaign addresses floor carpet covers, plastic pads and all-weather floor mats specifically designed for LHD drive vehicles.
Toyota Australia and Lexus Australia have inspected its local vehicle range and confirmed that the conditions leading to the recall do not affect right hand drive vehicles (RHD) sold in Australia.
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at the carsales mobile site
Koenigsegg Agera R supercar
Mean and green? Niche Swedish supercar company Koenigsegg has unleashed the Agera R machine, a vehicle capable of reaching 400km/h, yet runs on E85 biofuel
Geneva International Motor Show
The Geneva Autosalon has been the motor show of choice for exotic car launches for decades, and in 2011 we'll be seeing around half a dozen supercars uncovered in Switzerland, including this one from Koenigsegg, the Agera R.
The Swedish supercar company will no doubt steal some of the lime light from the Ferrari FF et al with its new twin turbo V8 machine, which is the next vehicle in the Agera range that was first seen in 2010, when it signalled a shift in the design language for the iconic brand.
Like all of the company's "hypercars" the Agera R was designed by Christian von Koenigsegg and the Agera name apparently means "to take action" in Swedish.
But perhaps the most interesting aspect of the new model, beyond the swoopy styling, are the wheels. The Vortex Generating Rim, or VGR wheels, features a unique spoke design that is purported to generate a turbine effect, in turn improving downforce. Shod with a brand-new Michelin compound which was developed especially for the Agera R, the tyres have the highest speed rating ever developed for a road car, designed to maintain integrity at up to 420km/h (260mph).
Though Koenigsegg has not revealed performance figures for the Agera R, it's expected to eclipse the Agera's top speed of 390km/h (245mph) and zero to 100km/h sprint time of 3.1 seconds, and has the potential to become one of the fastest vehicles of all-time.
The Swedish company issued a press statement that reads: "Although sharing the same values and philosophies as previous Koenigsegg models, the Agera takes the Koenigsegg experience to a completely new level."
Power has been boosted than to a larger capacity V8 engine, up from 4.7- to 5.0-litres, outputting stratospheric 820kW and 1200Nm - but those figures are only possible with E85 biofuel. Interestingly, the car will 'only' output 691kW/1100Nm when filled with 95 octane petroleum.
Nevertheless, the highly strung twin turbocharged V8 engine has a rev ceiling of 7250rpm and power is transferred to the ground via a seven-speed dual clutch AMT transmission.
With so much power and torque on tap, the Koenigsegg Agera R features a powerful electronic differential that "works in harmony with the new traction control system that is the fastest reacting in the industry" says the company. The traction control has an 'auto adapt' setting that can adjust traction levels instantly to suit conditions and driving styles.
The brakes also need to be very powerful to haul the car in from its potential top speed of 400km/h; massive 392x36mm front and 380x34mm rear ventilated and drilled ceramic rotors work in tandem with an an adjustable ABS system design for "Unparalleled braking performance and zero fade regardless of track or road condition."
According to the company, the new Agera R sets "...new benchmarks for Hypercars when it comes to control, handling, speed, comfort, practicality..." Yes, practicality. The company commissioned European roof rack specialist, Thule, to design a custom made carbon fibre roof-mounted ski box that can be (relatively) easily attached and detached from the supercar's roof. Imagine rocking up to Mount Buller or Thredbo in this vehicle?
Like some exotic vehicles, pricing is best described as: If you have to ask, you can't afford it.
Koenigsegg Agera R Specifications:
Engine: Aluminium/carbon fibre, dry sump, 32-valve, Twin Turbo, V8 engine developed in house
Torque: 1100 - 1200Nm - depending on version and fuel
Displacement: 5.035-litres. Bore: 90.7mm. Stroke: 95.25 mm. Compression ratio: 9.0:1. Max rpm: 7250
Power: 940-1115hp - depending on version and fuel
Transmission: 7-speed, dual clutch, single input shaft, AMT Transmission with E-diff.
Luggage space: 120 litres
Dry weight: 1330 kg
Curb weight 1418 kg (all fluids plus 50% fuel)
Maximum laden weight: 1600 kg(full tank, two passengers, full luggage)
Dimensions: Length: 4296 mm. Width: 1998 mm. Wheelbase: 2662 mm. Front Track: 1700 mm. Rear Track: 1650 mm. Front overhang: 885mm Rear overhang: 752mm Height: 1120 mm
Frontal Area: 1.873 m2 CD 0.30(no rear wing) - 0.33 (fixed normal Agera rear wing) - 0.33 to 0.37(adaptable wing)
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site.
Geneva International Motor Show
The Geneva Autosalon has been the motor show of choice for exotic car launches for decades, and in 2011 we'll be seeing around half a dozen supercars uncovered in Switzerland, including this one from Koenigsegg, the Agera R.
The Swedish supercar company will no doubt steal some of the lime light from the Ferrari FF et al with its new twin turbo V8 machine, which is the next vehicle in the Agera range that was first seen in 2010, when it signalled a shift in the design language for the iconic brand.
Like all of the company's "hypercars" the Agera R was designed by Christian von Koenigsegg and the Agera name apparently means "to take action" in Swedish.
But perhaps the most interesting aspect of the new model, beyond the swoopy styling, are the wheels. The Vortex Generating Rim, or VGR wheels, features a unique spoke design that is purported to generate a turbine effect, in turn improving downforce. Shod with a brand-new Michelin compound which was developed especially for the Agera R, the tyres have the highest speed rating ever developed for a road car, designed to maintain integrity at up to 420km/h (260mph).
Though Koenigsegg has not revealed performance figures for the Agera R, it's expected to eclipse the Agera's top speed of 390km/h (245mph) and zero to 100km/h sprint time of 3.1 seconds, and has the potential to become one of the fastest vehicles of all-time.
The Swedish company issued a press statement that reads: "Although sharing the same values and philosophies as previous Koenigsegg models, the Agera takes the Koenigsegg experience to a completely new level."
Power has been boosted than to a larger capacity V8 engine, up from 4.7- to 5.0-litres, outputting stratospheric 820kW and 1200Nm - but those figures are only possible with E85 biofuel. Interestingly, the car will 'only' output 691kW/1100Nm when filled with 95 octane petroleum.
Nevertheless, the highly strung twin turbocharged V8 engine has a rev ceiling of 7250rpm and power is transferred to the ground via a seven-speed dual clutch AMT transmission.
With so much power and torque on tap, the Koenigsegg Agera R features a powerful electronic differential that "works in harmony with the new traction control system that is the fastest reacting in the industry" says the company. The traction control has an 'auto adapt' setting that can adjust traction levels instantly to suit conditions and driving styles.
The brakes also need to be very powerful to haul the car in from its potential top speed of 400km/h; massive 392x36mm front and 380x34mm rear ventilated and drilled ceramic rotors work in tandem with an an adjustable ABS system design for "Unparalleled braking performance and zero fade regardless of track or road condition."
According to the company, the new Agera R sets "...new benchmarks for Hypercars when it comes to control, handling, speed, comfort, practicality..." Yes, practicality. The company commissioned European roof rack specialist, Thule, to design a custom made carbon fibre roof-mounted ski box that can be (relatively) easily attached and detached from the supercar's roof. Imagine rocking up to Mount Buller or Thredbo in this vehicle?
Like some exotic vehicles, pricing is best described as: If you have to ask, you can't afford it.
Koenigsegg Agera R Specifications:
Engine: Aluminium/carbon fibre, dry sump, 32-valve, Twin Turbo, V8 engine developed in house
Torque: 1100 - 1200Nm - depending on version and fuel
Displacement: 5.035-litres. Bore: 90.7mm. Stroke: 95.25 mm. Compression ratio: 9.0:1. Max rpm: 7250
Power: 940-1115hp - depending on version and fuel
Transmission: 7-speed, dual clutch, single input shaft, AMT Transmission with E-diff.
Luggage space: 120 litres
Dry weight: 1330 kg
Curb weight 1418 kg (all fluids plus 50% fuel)
Maximum laden weight: 1600 kg(full tank, two passengers, full luggage)
Dimensions: Length: 4296 mm. Width: 1998 mm. Wheelbase: 2662 mm. Front Track: 1700 mm. Rear Track: 1650 mm. Front overhang: 885mm Rear overhang: 752mm Height: 1120 mm
Frontal Area: 1.873 m2 CD 0.30(no rear wing) - 0.33 (fixed normal Agera rear wing) - 0.33 to 0.37(adaptable wing)
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site.
Citroen readies vehicular splendor
The Geneva motor show is traditionally known for its focus on aesthetics, and Citroen has planned a number of new cars for the event, including the DS4 Purple concept, a jewellers dream...
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Geneva International Motor Show
Citroen has announced a multitude of vehicles to be displayed at the 2011 Geneva motor show, including the world's most beautiful car, the DS4, special editions of the C3 and C6, a bedazzling concept car, plus equipment previews of its e-HDi micro-hybrid technology.
The public showing of the DS4 in Geneva is fitting for a car voted 'most beautiful car of the year' by some 60,000 people from 62 different countries, and is the second model in the Citroen's premium DS range after the DS3.
Citroen's DS4 will also get the concept car treatment, the French automaker prepping the DS4 Purple for display (first and second images), which is billed as "an object of desire and distinction that subtly reinterprets the jeweller’s craft." Beyond the fancy wheels and paintwork it's hard to see what else is new, but it is likely the interior will host the truly jaw-dropping changes. Stay tuned for more details on the DS4 Purple concept car direct from Geneva later this week.
Other Citroen vehicles on display at the 2011 Geneva Autosalon include a pair of concept cars, the C3 Red Block and C6 Noir et Blanc. This pair of vehicles are "reinventing codes and dazzling audiences with all-new and expressive approaches to colours and materials" according to Citroen, and hint at possible customisation options in the near future.
Two special edition models on show are the DS3 and C5 Serie Noire, which improve on the standard levels of equipment to deliver distinctive looks. However the local importer, Ateco Automotive, explained that these limited edition cars have not been confirmed for sale in Australia.
The DS3 Serie Noire comes with matte black exterior paint work, 17-inch diamond-tipped Bellone black alloy wheels, plus a re-upholstered interior featuring Lama leather and sat nav. The DS3 Serie Noire will be limited to just 750 units.
Citroen's C5 Serie Noire also gains matte black 'Perla Nera' paint, 19-inch matte grey alloy Hephaïs wheels, and Criollo integral leather upholstery covering seats, dashboard and centre console. The car also features hydractive suspension.
Technology showcases at the Citroen stand include the French car maker's micro-hybrid e-HDi system, which will be introduced on a number of different models in the range. For the Geneva show, the e-HDi system will be displayed in the Berlingo commercial vehicle.
On the green theme, Citroen also plans to present two electric vehicles, the C-ZERO and Berlingo First, while on the flipside the hard-charging Citroën DS3 WRC rally car will also be in attendance, adding a little machismo to the French car maker's stand as it eyes off its seventh Manufacturer's World Championship title.
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Geneva International Motor Show
Citroen has announced a multitude of vehicles to be displayed at the 2011 Geneva motor show, including the world's most beautiful car, the DS4, special editions of the C3 and C6, a bedazzling concept car, plus equipment previews of its e-HDi micro-hybrid technology.
The public showing of the DS4 in Geneva is fitting for a car voted 'most beautiful car of the year' by some 60,000 people from 62 different countries, and is the second model in the Citroen's premium DS range after the DS3.
Citroen's DS4 will also get the concept car treatment, the French automaker prepping the DS4 Purple for display (first and second images), which is billed as "an object of desire and distinction that subtly reinterprets the jeweller’s craft." Beyond the fancy wheels and paintwork it's hard to see what else is new, but it is likely the interior will host the truly jaw-dropping changes. Stay tuned for more details on the DS4 Purple concept car direct from Geneva later this week.
Other Citroen vehicles on display at the 2011 Geneva Autosalon include a pair of concept cars, the C3 Red Block and C6 Noir et Blanc. This pair of vehicles are "reinventing codes and dazzling audiences with all-new and expressive approaches to colours and materials" according to Citroen, and hint at possible customisation options in the near future.
Two special edition models on show are the DS3 and C5 Serie Noire, which improve on the standard levels of equipment to deliver distinctive looks. However the local importer, Ateco Automotive, explained that these limited edition cars have not been confirmed for sale in Australia.
The DS3 Serie Noire comes with matte black exterior paint work, 17-inch diamond-tipped Bellone black alloy wheels, plus a re-upholstered interior featuring Lama leather and sat nav. The DS3 Serie Noire will be limited to just 750 units.
Citroen's C5 Serie Noire also gains matte black 'Perla Nera' paint, 19-inch matte grey alloy Hephaïs wheels, and Criollo integral leather upholstery covering seats, dashboard and centre console. The car also features hydractive suspension.
Technology showcases at the Citroen stand include the French car maker's micro-hybrid e-HDi system, which will be introduced on a number of different models in the range. For the Geneva show, the e-HDi system will be displayed in the Berlingo commercial vehicle.
On the green theme, Citroen also plans to present two electric vehicles, the C-ZERO and Berlingo First, while on the flipside the hard-charging Citroën DS3 WRC rally car will also be in attendance, adding a little machismo to the French car maker's stand as it eyes off its seventh Manufacturer's World Championship title.
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Toyota Oz officially waives recalls
Australia not affected by overseas Toyota and Lexus recall campaigns
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Toyota Motor Corporation has again advised its Australian customers that Toyota and Lexus vehicles sold in Australia are not affected by the latest round of safety recalls announced overseas.
The company has emphasised that the campaign only affects selected left-hand drive vehicles.
Those familiar to with the story will be remember Toyota's extensive 2010 campaign that saw some 1.7 million vehicles recalled as unintended acceleration issues were addressed. The latest campaign addresses floor carpet covers, plastic pads and all-weather floor mats specifically designed for LHD drive vehicles.
Toyota Australia and Lexus Australia have inspected its local vehicle range and confirmed that the conditions leading to the recall do not affect right hand drive vehicles (RHD) sold in Australia.
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Toyota Motor Corporation has again advised its Australian customers that Toyota and Lexus vehicles sold in Australia are not affected by the latest round of safety recalls announced overseas.
The company has emphasised that the campaign only affects selected left-hand drive vehicles.
Those familiar to with the story will be remember Toyota's extensive 2010 campaign that saw some 1.7 million vehicles recalled as unintended acceleration issues were addressed. The latest campaign addresses floor carpet covers, plastic pads and all-weather floor mats specifically designed for LHD drive vehicles.
Toyota Australia and Lexus Australia have inspected its local vehicle range and confirmed that the conditions leading to the recall do not affect right hand drive vehicles (RHD) sold in Australia.
Read the latest Cars games ales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at the carsales mobile site
Koenigsegg Agera R supercar
Mean and green? Niche Swedish supercar company Koenigsegg has unleashed the Agera R machine, a vehicle capable of reaching 400km/h, yet runs on E85 biofuel
Geneva International Motor Show
The Geneva Autosalon has been the motor show of choice for exotic car launches for decades, and in 2011 we'll be seeing around half a dozen supercars uncovered in Switzerland, including this one from Koenigsegg, the Agera R.
The Swedish supercar company will no doubt steal some of the lime light from the Ferrari FF et al with its new twin turbo V8 machine, which is the next vehicle in the Agera range that was first seen in 2010, when it signalled a shift in the design language for the iconic brand.
Like all of the company's "hypercars" the Agera R was designed by Christian von Koenigsegg and the Agera name apparently means "to take action" in Swedish.
But perhaps the most interesting aspect of the new model, beyond the swoopy styling, are the wheels. The Vortex Generating Rim, or VGR wheels, features a unique spoke design that is purported to generate a turbine effect, in turn improving downforce. Shod with a brand-new Michelin compound which was developed especially for the Agera R, the tyres have the highest speed rating ever developed for a road car, designed to maintain integrity at up to 420km/h (260mph).
Though Koenigsegg has not revealed performance figures for the Agera R, it's expected to eclipse the Agera's top speed of 390km/h (245mph) and zero to 100km/h sprint time of 3.1 seconds, and has the potential to become one of the fastest vehicles of all-time.
The Swedish company issued a press statement that reads: "Although sharing the same values and philosophies as previous Koenigsegg models, the Agera takes the Koenigsegg experience to a completely new level."
Power has been boosted than to a larger capacity V8 engine, up from 4.7- to 5.0-litres, outputting stratospheric 820kW and 1200Nm - but those figures are only possible with E85 biofuel. Interestingly, the car will 'only' output 691kW/1100Nm when filled with 95 octane petroleum.
Nevertheless, the highly strung twin turbocharged V8 engine has a rev ceiling of 7250rpm and power is transferred to the ground via a seven-speed dual clutch AMT transmission.
With so much power and torque on tap, the Koenigsegg Agera R features a powerful electronic differential that "works in harmony with the new traction control system that is the fastest reacting in the industry" says the company. The traction control has an 'auto adapt' setting that can adjust traction levels instantly to suit conditions and driving styles.
The brakes also need to be very powerful to haul the car in from its potential top speed of 400km/h; massive 392x36mm front and 380x34mm rear ventilated and drilled ceramic rotors work in tandem with an an adjustable ABS system design for "Unparalleled braking performance and zero fade regardless of track or road condition."
According to the company, the new Agera R sets "...new benchmarks for Hypercars when it comes to control, handling, speed, comfort, practicality..." Yes, practicality. The company commissioned European roof rack specialist, Thule, to design a custom made carbon fibre roof-mounted ski box that can be (relatively) easily attached and detached from the supercar's roof. Imagine rocking up to Mount Buller or Thredbo in this vehicle?
Like some exotic vehicles, pricing is best described as: If you have to ask, you can't afford it.
Koenigsegg Agera R Specifications:
Engine: Aluminium/carbon fibre, dry sump, 32-valve, Twin Turbo, V8 engine developed in house
Torque: 1100 - 1200Nm - depending on version and fuel
Displacement: 5.035-litres. Bore: 90.7mm. Stroke: 95.25 mm. Compression ratio: 9.0:1. Max rpm: 7250
Power: 940-1115hp - depending on version and fuel
Transmission: 7-speed, dual clutch, single input shaft, AMT Transmission with E-diff.
Luggage space: 120 litres
Dry weight: 1330 kg
Curb weight 1418 kg (all fluids plus 50% fuel)
Maximum laden weight: 1600 kg(full tank, two passengers, full luggage)
Dimensions: Length: 4296 mm. Width: 1998 mm. Wheelbase: 2662 mm. Front Track: 1700 mm. Rear Track: 1650 mm. Front overhang: 885mm Rear overhang: 752mm Height: 1120 mm
Frontal Area: 1.873 m2 CD 0.30(no rear wing) - 0.33 (fixed normal Agera rear wing) - 0.33 to 0.37(adaptable wing)
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Geneva International Motor Show
The Geneva Autosalon has been the motor show of choice for exotic car launches for decades, and in 2011 we'll be seeing around half a dozen supercars uncovered in Switzerland, including this one from Koenigsegg, the Agera R.
The Swedish supercar company will no doubt steal some of the lime light from the Ferrari FF et al with its new twin turbo V8 machine, which is the next vehicle in the Agera range that was first seen in 2010, when it signalled a shift in the design language for the iconic brand.
Like all of the company's "hypercars" the Agera R was designed by Christian von Koenigsegg and the Agera name apparently means "to take action" in Swedish.
But perhaps the most interesting aspect of the new model, beyond the swoopy styling, are the wheels. The Vortex Generating Rim, or VGR wheels, features a unique spoke design that is purported to generate a turbine effect, in turn improving downforce. Shod with a brand-new Michelin compound which was developed especially for the Agera R, the tyres have the highest speed rating ever developed for a road car, designed to maintain integrity at up to 420km/h (260mph).
Though Koenigsegg has not revealed performance figures for the Agera R, it's expected to eclipse the Agera's top speed of 390km/h (245mph) and zero to 100km/h sprint time of 3.1 seconds, and has the potential to become one of the fastest vehicles of all-time.
The Swedish company issued a press statement that reads: "Although sharing the same values and philosophies as previous Koenigsegg models, the Agera takes the Koenigsegg experience to a completely new level."
Power has been boosted than to a larger capacity V8 engine, up from 4.7- to 5.0-litres, outputting stratospheric 820kW and 1200Nm - but those figures are only possible with E85 biofuel. Interestingly, the car will 'only' output 691kW/1100Nm when filled with 95 octane petroleum.
Nevertheless, the highly strung twin turbocharged V8 engine has a rev ceiling of 7250rpm and power is transferred to the ground via a seven-speed dual clutch AMT transmission.
With so much power and torque on tap, the Koenigsegg Agera R features a powerful electronic differential that "works in harmony with the new traction control system that is the fastest reacting in the industry" says the company. The traction control has an 'auto adapt' setting that can adjust traction levels instantly to suit conditions and driving styles.
The brakes also need to be very powerful to haul the car in from its potential top speed of 400km/h; massive 392x36mm front and 380x34mm rear ventilated and drilled ceramic rotors work in tandem with an an adjustable ABS system design for "Unparalleled braking performance and zero fade regardless of track or road condition."
According to the company, the new Agera R sets "...new benchmarks for Hypercars when it comes to control, handling, speed, comfort, practicality..." Yes, practicality. The company commissioned European roof rack specialist, Thule, to design a custom made carbon fibre roof-mounted ski box that can be (relatively) easily attached and detached from the supercar's roof. Imagine rocking up to Mount Buller or Thredbo in this vehicle?
Like some exotic vehicles, pricing is best described as: If you have to ask, you can't afford it.
Koenigsegg Agera R Specifications:
Engine: Aluminium/carbon fibre, dry sump, 32-valve, Twin Turbo, V8 engine developed in house
Torque: 1100 - 1200Nm - depending on version and fuel
Displacement: 5.035-litres. Bore: 90.7mm. Stroke: 95.25 mm. Compression ratio: 9.0:1. Max rpm: 7250
Power: 940-1115hp - depending on version and fuel
Transmission: 7-speed, dual clutch, single input shaft, AMT Transmission with E-diff.
Luggage space: 120 litres
Dry weight: 1330 kg
Curb weight 1418 kg (all fluids plus 50% fuel)
Maximum laden weight: 1600 kg(full tank, two passengers, full luggage)
Dimensions: Length: 4296 mm. Width: 1998 mm. Wheelbase: 2662 mm. Front Track: 1700 mm. Rear Track: 1650 mm. Front overhang: 885mm Rear overhang: 752mm Height: 1120 mm
Frontal Area: 1.873 m2 CD 0.30(no rear wing) - 0.33 (fixed normal Agera rear wing) - 0.33 to 0.37(adaptable wing)
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site.
Opel Zafira Tourer Concept
Expected to make its debut Down Under in 2013, the new people mover from Opel is aimed not at families but at prestige buyers, featuring a 'lounge on wheels' aesthetic
Geneva International Motor Show
Now that Opel has confirmed it will enter the Australian market in 2012, expect to see this new seven-seat people mover vehicle in 2013.
Though the Zafira Tourer Concept is just that, a concept, it is a preview of the next generation people mover that is expected to be unveiled in production form at the 2011 Frankfurt motor show in Germany.
However unlike many people movers, the new model appears to be promoted less as a family minivan and more as a lifestyle vehicle for the socially inclined.
If the features in the concept make their way into the production vehicle, we could be looking at a Mercedes-Benz R-Class rival rather than a Kia Carnival competitor.
The new styling of the Zafira Tourer Concept previews a fresh fascia for the people mover, complete with LED daytime running lights. The concept is being touted as a "lounge on wheels" thanks to its 2+3+2 layout, panoramic glass windscreen and roof, iPad integration, plus a luxurious high tech interior.
"We have transferred the idea of a relaxing lounge to a vehicle and created an automobile wellness oasis, a place to relax and enjoy," says Mark Adams, Vice President of Design at Opel.
"Passengers can retreat in the lounge - it is a comfortable, roomy space where you really want to be, regardless if it's for a business trip or to relax for a long journey,"
The glass roof boasts integrated ambient lighting, which can be lit in various colours to suit the mood of occupants, while the rearmost seats in the third row are amply proportioned, leather upholstered and boast electrically-adjustable headrests that can even swivel 90-degrees.
The trio of second row seats can be transformed to two at the touch of a button, with the central seat morphing into armrests. The idea behind the Opel Zafira Tourer Concept is that everything should be push-button operated to ensure effortless comfort and practicality.
The concept car is powered by a four-cylinder 1.4-litre petrol turbocharged engine and though specifications have not been released, it follows that outputs would be around the 100kW/200Nm mark. Opel could confirm that the Zafira Tourer Concept would be packed with stop-start engine technology to reduce overall carbon dioxide emissions.
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site.
Geneva International Motor Show
Now that Opel has confirmed it will enter the Australian market in 2012, expect to see this new seven-seat people mover vehicle in 2013.
Though the Zafira Tourer Concept is just that, a concept, it is a preview of the next generation people mover that is expected to be unveiled in production form at the 2011 Frankfurt motor show in Germany.
However unlike many people movers, the new model appears to be promoted less as a family minivan and more as a lifestyle vehicle for the socially inclined.
If the features in the concept make their way into the production vehicle, we could be looking at a Mercedes-Benz R-Class rival rather than a Kia Carnival competitor.
The new styling of the Zafira Tourer Concept previews a fresh fascia for the people mover, complete with LED daytime running lights. The concept is being touted as a "lounge on wheels" thanks to its 2+3+2 layout, panoramic glass windscreen and roof, iPad integration, plus a luxurious high tech interior.
"We have transferred the idea of a relaxing lounge to a vehicle and created an automobile wellness oasis, a place to relax and enjoy," says Mark Adams, Vice President of Design at Opel.
"Passengers can retreat in the lounge - it is a comfortable, roomy space where you really want to be, regardless if it's for a business trip or to relax for a long journey,"
The glass roof boasts integrated ambient lighting, which can be lit in various colours to suit the mood of occupants, while the rearmost seats in the third row are amply proportioned, leather upholstered and boast electrically-adjustable headrests that can even swivel 90-degrees.
The trio of second row seats can be transformed to two at the touch of a button, with the central seat morphing into armrests. The idea behind the Opel Zafira Tourer Concept is that everything should be push-button operated to ensure effortless comfort and practicality.
The concept car is powered by a four-cylinder 1.4-litre petrol turbocharged engine and though specifications have not been released, it follows that outputs would be around the 100kW/200Nm mark. Opel could confirm that the Zafira Tourer Concept would be packed with stop-start engine technology to reduce overall carbon dioxide emissions.
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site.
Thứ Năm, 15 tháng 3, 2012
New, lightweight Holden Commodore due in 2013
Aluminium panels and other weight-saving measures planned as Holden embarks on battle of the bulge
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The Holden Commodore is going on a crash diet -- the lion could soon become an alloy cat.
In an attempt to burn the kilos the car games maker is planning on using lightweight aluminium for key components such as the bonnet, boot and some underbody parts.
The Carsales Network understands that Holden has had to take the drastic measures to ensure the Commodore meets stringent internal fuel economy targets, and is well-placed for sharp rises in petrol prices.
Aluminium is more expensive than regular steel and is typically only used on luxury cars such as the Jaguar XJ and Audi A8 limousines. If the Commodore were to adopt the precious metal for body parts it would become the first Australian-made car to do so.
The Carsales Network understands that Holden has managed to slash between 50kg and 100kg from the Commodore’s 1800kg average weight. This may not sound like much, but on such a large vehicle, a weight loss of this magnitude is equivalent to winning The Biggest Loser.
Meanwhile, at the media preview drive of the new Holden Cruze small car yesterday, the company's chief designer Tony Stolfo let slip when we can expect a new Commodore, and gave a hint to at least one of its visual cues.
When describing a sharp vertical crease in the new Cruze’s rear bumper during a walkaround presentation, Stolfo said: "See that hard edge on the rear corner ... it gives you clues [to] Model Year 14 Commodore, and the distinct styling we’ll drive into that vehicle, and also the aero attributes we’re pushing into the vehicles."
Similar bumper creases are used on eco models such as the Toyota Prius and are designed to improve freeway fuel economy by separating air turbulence from the rear of the car.
Using history as a guide, "Model Year 14" likely means the next Commodore will be introduced some time in 2013. Until now, Holden had not indicated when a new Commodore would arrive in showrooms.
The VE Commodore, released in 2006, was originally due for replacement in 2012 following a five or six year model cycle. Instead, it released a mildly updated Series II model in 2010, with new front and rear bumpers and a touch screen display.
The Global Financial Crisis in late 2008 -- which forced General Motors North America into bankruptcy and almost saw the closure or sale of Holden -- delayed the development and introduction of a new Commodore.
But Holden must be close to finalising a new model. The global head of General Motors design, Ed Welburn, was in Australia last month to view the new Commodore and other models that Holden's highly regarded design team is working on for other General Motors divisions around the world. (More than two-thirds of Holden's design work is for foreign General Motors brands.)
What's not clear is whether the 2013 Commodore is an all-new model or a facelift of the current vehicle. In an interview with the Carsales Network, a guarded Holden boss Mike Devereux said: "I think Tony [Stolfo] and Ed [Welburn] have said all that we want to say about future Commodores.
"My preference is to not put things out there that begin to create speculation given how veraciously Australian consumers consume news about this particular vehicle. I'm not trying to be cute but I think Ed and Tony have said all we want to say about any Commodore development at this point in time, on the record, publicly."
When asked about the possibility of using aluminium in the new Commodore, Devereux said: "The industry has the capability of doing it."
When asked if Holden could do it, he said: "Of course. Anything is possible but there are cost tradeoffs and materials tradeoffs. We don't stamp anything like that today."
Devereux said the Commodore was in a perpetual fuel economy drive and there were "five or six" ways to cut consumption and mass: "Over time we will try to lightweight Commodore, even in its current form. We will do things to reduce fuel consumption every single year."
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The Holden Commodore is going on a crash diet -- the lion could soon become an alloy cat.
In an attempt to burn the kilos the car games maker is planning on using lightweight aluminium for key components such as the bonnet, boot and some underbody parts.
The Carsales Network understands that Holden has had to take the drastic measures to ensure the Commodore meets stringent internal fuel economy targets, and is well-placed for sharp rises in petrol prices.
Aluminium is more expensive than regular steel and is typically only used on luxury cars such as the Jaguar XJ and Audi A8 limousines. If the Commodore were to adopt the precious metal for body parts it would become the first Australian-made car to do so.
The Carsales Network understands that Holden has managed to slash between 50kg and 100kg from the Commodore’s 1800kg average weight. This may not sound like much, but on such a large vehicle, a weight loss of this magnitude is equivalent to winning The Biggest Loser.
Meanwhile, at the media preview drive of the new Holden Cruze small car yesterday, the company's chief designer Tony Stolfo let slip when we can expect a new Commodore, and gave a hint to at least one of its visual cues.
When describing a sharp vertical crease in the new Cruze’s rear bumper during a walkaround presentation, Stolfo said: "See that hard edge on the rear corner ... it gives you clues [to] Model Year 14 Commodore, and the distinct styling we’ll drive into that vehicle, and also the aero attributes we’re pushing into the vehicles."
Similar bumper creases are used on eco models such as the Toyota Prius and are designed to improve freeway fuel economy by separating air turbulence from the rear of the car.
Using history as a guide, "Model Year 14" likely means the next Commodore will be introduced some time in 2013. Until now, Holden had not indicated when a new Commodore would arrive in showrooms.
The VE Commodore, released in 2006, was originally due for replacement in 2012 following a five or six year model cycle. Instead, it released a mildly updated Series II model in 2010, with new front and rear bumpers and a touch screen display.
The Global Financial Crisis in late 2008 -- which forced General Motors North America into bankruptcy and almost saw the closure or sale of Holden -- delayed the development and introduction of a new Commodore.
But Holden must be close to finalising a new model. The global head of General Motors design, Ed Welburn, was in Australia last month to view the new Commodore and other models that Holden's highly regarded design team is working on for other General Motors divisions around the world. (More than two-thirds of Holden's design work is for foreign General Motors brands.)
What's not clear is whether the 2013 Commodore is an all-new model or a facelift of the current vehicle. In an interview with the Carsales Network, a guarded Holden boss Mike Devereux said: "I think Tony [Stolfo] and Ed [Welburn] have said all that we want to say about future Commodores.
"My preference is to not put things out there that begin to create speculation given how veraciously Australian consumers consume news about this particular vehicle. I'm not trying to be cute but I think Ed and Tony have said all we want to say about any Commodore development at this point in time, on the record, publicly."
When asked about the possibility of using aluminium in the new Commodore, Devereux said: "The industry has the capability of doing it."
When asked if Holden could do it, he said: "Of course. Anything is possible but there are cost tradeoffs and materials tradeoffs. We don't stamp anything like that today."
Devereux said the Commodore was in a perpetual fuel economy drive and there were "five or six" ways to cut consumption and mass: "Over time we will try to lightweight Commodore, even in its current form. We will do things to reduce fuel consumption every single year."
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site...
MOTORSPORT: $10m dispute in V8 Supercars
A blast from the past re-emerges, if only in correspondence, making a big demand on V8 Supercars over a failed credit card venture last decade
V8SE dismisses Gore claim as 'spurious'
A $10 million dispute has come to light in V8 Supercars just as the Australian season gets underway this weekend with Adelaide's Clipsal 500.
Controversial Gold Coast businessman and former V8 Supercar team owner Craig Gore has made a claim on V8 Supercars Australia for that amount over the failed Supercar credit card venture.
The claim is made by Supercar Supercard Pty Ltd in correspondence on the letterhead of financial group WPS -- the acronym for Wright Patton Shakespeare with which Gore became synonymous.
No writ has been issued, but the author of the letter, Mark Adamson, apparently a solicitor for WPS Law, wrote that he was "taking instructions to issue proceedings against V8 Supercars Australia Pty Ltd".
V8SE says it has responded to the letter and that it "rejects outright the vague and spurious claims made against it by Supercar Supercard Pty Ltd".
"An agreement once existed between V8 Supercars, V8 Supercar Supercard and WPS, however it was terminated in January 2007 following payment defaults under the agreement by Supercar Supercard," V8SA told the Carsales Network.
"Any suggestion that V8 Supercars has any liability to Supercar Supercard is baseless and without merit."
V8SA has so far declined our invitation to provide its written response to Adamson. This correspondent contacted WPS seeking to speak to Adamson but the receptionist could not find any record of him.
A message for another solicitor listed as a WPS Law principal has not been returned.
The claim is seen by some in the inner circle of V8 Supercars as an attempt by Gore to muddy the waters as the organisation negotiates the possible sale of a controlling interest in V8SE, which has been seen as likely to be finalised within the next few weeks.
Gore last year avoided a second bankruptcy (his first was in the 1990s), settling debts of almost $500 million by paying $3 million -- and then landing a position with a reported $2 million salary.
He was a colorful and outspoken figure in V8 Supercar racing for several years, and in American racing where he sponsored Australians Will Power and Marcos Ambrose. He was long seen as a close friend of V8SA chairman Tony Cochrane and WPS at one time supplied the V8 Supercar safety car in its livery. However, that deal faltered and Gore abruptly shut his V8 Supercar team just weeks before the 2008 season.
Gore's claim over the Supercard will be seen as opportunistic, especially after the comparatively paltry amount he paid to settle almost half a billion dollars of debt.
The Adamson/Supercar Supercard letter of March 7 said it was giving notice of "a claim for damages for breach of agreement".
"The company (Supercar Supercard) entered into an exclusive dealing agreement with Austalian Vee-Eight Supercar Company Pty Ltd (the previous name of V8 Supercars Australia Pty Ltd," the letter said.
"Pursuant to the terms of the agreement, the parties entered into an exclusive arrangement to co-brand a Visa or Mastercard affinity card with the intent of generating income and also raising the profile of each of the parties as well as the V8 Supercar Championship Series in general.
"The nub of the (Supercar Supercard) company's complaint is that the V8 Supercars Australia Pty Ltd failed to perform in terms of the agreement.
"As a consequence... the (Supercar Supercard) company suffered a substantial loss and damage -- by way of indication, the company estimates the loss and damage as an amount not less than $10,000,000."
Adamson wrote that "the director of the company" (Gore, although the letter does not contain his name) "is disappointed with the conduct of V8 Supercars Australia Pty Ltd".
"What weighs heavily in the mind of the director... is that the company suffered a massive loss of commercial opportunity -- particularly having regard to the fact that our client and its resources were tied up in the agreement thereby depriving our client of the opportunity to earn profits from other business opportunities that could have been undertaken by it," Adamson concluded.
The matter may well prove to be a mere pimple on the skin of the V8 Supercars organisation, although any potential buyer of a majority stake in V8SA is likely to want that clarified promptly before signing on the dotted line.
Rain on the radar for Clipsal 500
The latest Gore issue aside, V8 Supercar fans are relieved that the season is finally underway on home soil -- five weeks after the opening round in Abu Dhabi.
Adelaide's Clipsal 500 is now well established as the second biggest event in the championship after Bathurst, but there is a prospect of rain in the City of Churches this weekend.
It hasn't rained during a Clipsal race since Mark Skaife's memorable last-to-first victory in 2000. While the weather could toss up a surprise winner if rain eventuates Saturday or Sunday afternoon, the favourites must be the drivers in the main Holden teams -- reigning champion James Courtney and Garth Tander at Toll Holden Racing Team and dual champion and Clipsal specialist Jamie Whincup and Craig Lowndes.
Although Whincup and Courtney won the Abu Dhabi races, the Fords showed great pace in the Middle East.
Factory team Ford Performance Racing needs Mark Winterbottom and Will Davison to perform well now that the series is on home ground, while the Stone Brothers Falcons could be the year's big improver -- and a victory cannot be far away for Shane van Gisbergen.
Jason Richards, the popular Brad Jones Racing driver sidelined late last season by cancer, makes a welcome return this weekend -- although not in the "main game".
Richards is still battling his illness but will be racing a Ferrari in the GT category and a Greg Murphy Racing Commodore in the Fujistu development series.
Hoping to be return full-time to V8 Supercar competition by this year's endurance races, Richards says he sees this week's activity as "therapy". He's sure to have everyone's best wishes.
American racing getting into top gear
The racing year is starting to get into full stride. In America this weekend it's the Sebring 12-Hour sports car event in Florida, while NASCAR's Sprint Cup resumes after a week's break with its fourth round at the famed Bristol, Tennessee, short oval -- and the IndyCar series starts next week.
Aussie NASCAR racer Marcos Ambrose is looking to follow-up his strong fourth at Las Vergas for his new team Richard Petty Motorsports at Bristol.
The Sebring classic, the first round of the American Le Mans Series (ALMS), is likely to be a duel between sports car racing's heavyweights Audi and Peugeot, while the new Honda Performance Development car to be driven by David Brabham has shown promise in this week's testing.
Apart from racing again this year for Highcroft Racing in ALMS, Brabham will drive a Nissan GT-R in the European-based GT1 championship.
The four-car SUMO Power team includes two other ex-Formula One drivers, Brazilians Enrique Bernoldi and Riccardo Zonta, as well as Peter Dumbreck -- the Englishman who had a similar spectacular crash in a Mercedes-Benz to the two of Australian Mark Webber at Le Mans in the late 1990s.
Brabham's teammate will be Jamie Campbell Walter.
SUMO Power is being managed by Brit Nigel Stepney, who was run out of Ferrari and F1 in the infamous "Spygate" saga in 2007.
Rally officials seek WRC round every year
Australian rallying officials are lobbying hard for a World Championship Round next year.
Talks were held with Federation Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) president Jean Todt during his Australian visit this week.
NSW's Coffs Coast will host its first Rally Australia this September 8-11, but -- with the WRC calendar limited to 12 or 13 rounds a year these days -- it is hard to see Oz, unlike the "old days" in Western Australia, doing better than having a round every two years, alternating with New Zealand.
Next year's calendar should be finalised in early April if not by the end of March.
Red Bull splashing its money around
Some big pay rises have been awarded at Red Bull Racing following its first constructors' world championship.
World champion driver Sebastian Vettel, still only 23, is reportedly on about $24 million a year now -- probably twice as much, or more, than his Australian teammate Mark Webber.
Team principal Christian Horner says he and Webber will discuss his future mid-season.
Perhaps depending on Webber's performances in the early races of the season starting next weekend in Melbourne, another one-year extension of his contract could be agreed before mid-year.
Webber will drive a Red Bull F1 car over Melbourne's Bolte Bridge tomorrow (Saturday) morning, then on to Docklands.
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V8SE dismisses Gore claim as 'spurious'
A $10 million dispute has come to light in V8 Supercars just as the Australian season gets underway this weekend with Adelaide's Clipsal 500.
Controversial Gold Coast businessman and former V8 Supercar team owner Craig Gore has made a claim on V8 Supercars Australia for that amount over the failed Supercar credit card venture.
The claim is made by Supercar Supercard Pty Ltd in correspondence on the letterhead of financial group WPS -- the acronym for Wright Patton Shakespeare with which Gore became synonymous.
No writ has been issued, but the author of the letter, Mark Adamson, apparently a solicitor for WPS Law, wrote that he was "taking instructions to issue proceedings against V8 Supercars Australia Pty Ltd".
V8SE says it has responded to the letter and that it "rejects outright the vague and spurious claims made against it by Supercar Supercard Pty Ltd".
"An agreement once existed between V8 Supercars, V8 Supercar Supercard and WPS, however it was terminated in January 2007 following payment defaults under the agreement by Supercar Supercard," V8SA told the Carsales Network.
"Any suggestion that V8 Supercars has any liability to Supercar Supercard is baseless and without merit."
V8SA has so far declined our invitation to provide its written response to Adamson. This correspondent contacted WPS seeking to speak to Adamson but the receptionist could not find any record of him.
A message for another solicitor listed as a WPS Law principal has not been returned.
The claim is seen by some in the inner circle of V8 Supercars as an attempt by Gore to muddy the waters as the organisation negotiates the possible sale of a controlling interest in V8SE, which has been seen as likely to be finalised within the next few weeks.
Gore last year avoided a second bankruptcy (his first was in the 1990s), settling debts of almost $500 million by paying $3 million -- and then landing a position with a reported $2 million salary.
He was a colorful and outspoken figure in V8 Supercar racing for several years, and in American racing where he sponsored Australians Will Power and Marcos Ambrose. He was long seen as a close friend of V8SA chairman Tony Cochrane and WPS at one time supplied the V8 Supercar safety car in its livery. However, that deal faltered and Gore abruptly shut his V8 Supercar team just weeks before the 2008 season.
Gore's claim over the Supercard will be seen as opportunistic, especially after the comparatively paltry amount he paid to settle almost half a billion dollars of debt.
The Adamson/Supercar Supercard letter of March 7 said it was giving notice of "a claim for damages for breach of agreement".
"The company (Supercar Supercard) entered into an exclusive dealing agreement with Austalian Vee-Eight Supercar Company Pty Ltd (the previous name of V8 Supercars Australia Pty Ltd," the letter said.
"Pursuant to the terms of the agreement, the parties entered into an exclusive arrangement to co-brand a Visa or Mastercard affinity card with the intent of generating income and also raising the profile of each of the parties as well as the V8 Supercar Championship Series in general.
"The nub of the (Supercar Supercard) company's complaint is that the V8 Supercars Australia Pty Ltd failed to perform in terms of the agreement.
"As a consequence... the (Supercar Supercard) company suffered a substantial loss and damage -- by way of indication, the company estimates the loss and damage as an amount not less than $10,000,000."
Adamson wrote that "the director of the company" (Gore, although the letter does not contain his name) "is disappointed with the conduct of V8 Supercars Australia Pty Ltd".
"What weighs heavily in the mind of the director... is that the company suffered a massive loss of commercial opportunity -- particularly having regard to the fact that our client and its resources were tied up in the agreement thereby depriving our client of the opportunity to earn profits from other business opportunities that could have been undertaken by it," Adamson concluded.
The matter may well prove to be a mere pimple on the skin of the V8 Supercars organisation, although any potential buyer of a majority stake in V8SA is likely to want that clarified promptly before signing on the dotted line.
Rain on the radar for Clipsal 500
The latest Gore issue aside, V8 Supercar fans are relieved that the season is finally underway on home soil -- five weeks after the opening round in Abu Dhabi.
Adelaide's Clipsal 500 is now well established as the second biggest event in the championship after Bathurst, but there is a prospect of rain in the City of Churches this weekend.
It hasn't rained during a Clipsal race since Mark Skaife's memorable last-to-first victory in 2000. While the weather could toss up a surprise winner if rain eventuates Saturday or Sunday afternoon, the favourites must be the drivers in the main Holden teams -- reigning champion James Courtney and Garth Tander at Toll Holden Racing Team and dual champion and Clipsal specialist Jamie Whincup and Craig Lowndes.
Although Whincup and Courtney won the Abu Dhabi races, the Fords showed great pace in the Middle East.
Factory team Ford Performance Racing needs Mark Winterbottom and Will Davison to perform well now that the series is on home ground, while the Stone Brothers Falcons could be the year's big improver -- and a victory cannot be far away for Shane van Gisbergen.
Jason Richards, the popular Brad Jones Racing driver sidelined late last season by cancer, makes a welcome return this weekend -- although not in the "main game".
Richards is still battling his illness but will be racing a Ferrari in the GT category and a Greg Murphy Racing Commodore in the Fujistu development series.
Hoping to be return full-time to V8 Supercar competition by this year's endurance races, Richards says he sees this week's activity as "therapy". He's sure to have everyone's best wishes.
American racing getting into top gear
The racing year is starting to get into full stride. In America this weekend it's the Sebring 12-Hour sports car event in Florida, while NASCAR's Sprint Cup resumes after a week's break with its fourth round at the famed Bristol, Tennessee, short oval -- and the IndyCar series starts next week.
Aussie NASCAR racer Marcos Ambrose is looking to follow-up his strong fourth at Las Vergas for his new team Richard Petty Motorsports at Bristol.
The Sebring classic, the first round of the American Le Mans Series (ALMS), is likely to be a duel between sports car racing's heavyweights Audi and Peugeot, while the new Honda Performance Development car to be driven by David Brabham has shown promise in this week's testing.
Apart from racing again this year for Highcroft Racing in ALMS, Brabham will drive a Nissan GT-R in the European-based GT1 championship.
The four-car SUMO Power team includes two other ex-Formula One drivers, Brazilians Enrique Bernoldi and Riccardo Zonta, as well as Peter Dumbreck -- the Englishman who had a similar spectacular crash in a Mercedes-Benz to the two of Australian Mark Webber at Le Mans in the late 1990s.
Brabham's teammate will be Jamie Campbell Walter.
SUMO Power is being managed by Brit Nigel Stepney, who was run out of Ferrari and F1 in the infamous "Spygate" saga in 2007.
Rally officials seek WRC round every year
Australian rallying officials are lobbying hard for a World Championship Round next year.
Talks were held with Federation Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) president Jean Todt during his Australian visit this week.
NSW's Coffs Coast will host its first Rally Australia this September 8-11, but -- with the WRC calendar limited to 12 or 13 rounds a year these days -- it is hard to see Oz, unlike the "old days" in Western Australia, doing better than having a round every two years, alternating with New Zealand.
Next year's calendar should be finalised in early April if not by the end of March.
Red Bull splashing its money around
Some big pay rises have been awarded at Red Bull Racing following its first constructors' world championship.
World champion driver Sebastian Vettel, still only 23, is reportedly on about $24 million a year now -- probably twice as much, or more, than his Australian teammate Mark Webber.
Team principal Christian Horner says he and Webber will discuss his future mid-season.
Perhaps depending on Webber's performances in the early races of the season starting next weekend in Melbourne, another one-year extension of his contract could be agreed before mid-year.
Webber will drive a Red Bull F1 car over Melbourne's Bolte Bridge tomorrow (Saturday) morning, then on to Docklands.
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at the carsales mobile site
SPY PICS: BMW's 'i' to the future
The MegaCity EV concept will reach production, as the BMW i3
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BMW's new niche brand is developing apace. Dedicated to producing environmentally responsible cars -- and named 'i' -- it's already been outed by Carparazzi testing the i8 hybrid above the arctic circle, but now the master spy photographers have also caught the i3 electric vehicle during filming of a TV production.
The i3 will be the production version of the MegaCity concept, revealed to be in the pipeline two years ago. BMW expects to sell as many as 30,000 of the EV during its first full year on sale, in 2014, according to Carparazzi and the spy snappers have heard around the traps that BMW will ask buyers to stump up €40,000 for the i3. Both the i3 and the i8 will be properly unveiled near the end of 2013 and will be marketed under the brand's slogan: "Born Electric".
BMW will build both vehicles at its Leipzig plant and the prestige manufacturer already has a snappy catchphrase for the combination of aluminium chassis and carbonfibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) safety cell: "LifeDrive architecture".
-- with Carparazzi
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BMW's new niche brand is developing apace. Dedicated to producing environmentally responsible cars -- and named 'i' -- it's already been outed by Carparazzi testing the i8 hybrid above the arctic circle, but now the master spy photographers have also caught the i3 electric vehicle during filming of a TV production.
The i3 will be the production version of the MegaCity concept, revealed to be in the pipeline two years ago. BMW expects to sell as many as 30,000 of the EV during its first full year on sale, in 2014, according to Carparazzi and the spy snappers have heard around the traps that BMW will ask buyers to stump up €40,000 for the i3. Both the i3 and the i8 will be properly unveiled near the end of 2013 and will be marketed under the brand's slogan: "Born Electric".
BMW will build both vehicles at its Leipzig plant and the prestige manufacturer already has a snappy catchphrase for the combination of aluminium chassis and carbonfibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) safety cell: "LifeDrive architecture".
-- with Carparazzi
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site...
SX4 scores extra airbags
The entry-level variant now matches up with the rest of Suzuki's small car range, offering side-impact and curtain airbags as standard
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The last hold-out in Suzuki's SX4 model range has come to the party. Front side-impact and curtain airbags are now standard in the entry-level SX4 hatch.
Around this time last year the importer released an upgraded SX4 model range, with improved safety equipment, including standard stability control, traction control, Brake Assist, three-point seatbelts for all five positions -- and six airbags. However, the basic SX4 front-drive hatch was left off the invite list for the additional airbags. Suzuki has now redressed the imbalance.
"The SX4 has always been one of the best value choices in its class combining performance, efficiency and Suzuki's legendary reliability," said Suzuki Australia General Manager Tony Devers. "It set a new vision for small crossovers when it first launched in 2007 with its unique combination of style, space, high driving position, practicality and fuel economy.
"Plus the SX4 is not just made for the city -- it can handle the great outdoors too. The option of an intelligent All-Wheel Drive (i-AWD) system means the SX4 caters to all lifestyles.
"And now with the added safety of six airbags across the range -- at no extra expense to our customers -- the SX4 is also one of the safest for any adventure you throw at it. At just $20,490 plus on roads, the SX4 is compulsory driving for anyone considering a quality small car," said Devers.
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The last hold-out in Suzuki's SX4 model range has come to the party. Front side-impact and curtain airbags are now standard in the entry-level SX4 hatch.
Around this time last year the importer released an upgraded SX4 model range, with improved safety equipment, including standard stability control, traction control, Brake Assist, three-point seatbelts for all five positions -- and six airbags. However, the basic SX4 front-drive hatch was left off the invite list for the additional airbags. Suzuki has now redressed the imbalance.
"The SX4 has always been one of the best value choices in its class combining performance, efficiency and Suzuki's legendary reliability," said Suzuki Australia General Manager Tony Devers. "It set a new vision for small crossovers when it first launched in 2007 with its unique combination of style, space, high driving position, practicality and fuel economy.
"Plus the SX4 is not just made for the city -- it can handle the great outdoors too. The option of an intelligent All-Wheel Drive (i-AWD) system means the SX4 caters to all lifestyles.
"And now with the added safety of six airbags across the range -- at no extra expense to our customers -- the SX4 is also one of the safest for any adventure you throw at it. At just $20,490 plus on roads, the SX4 is compulsory driving for anyone considering a quality small car," said Devers.
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site...
Thứ Ba, 13 tháng 3, 2012
SHANGHAI AUTO SHOW: Half-price Fisker electric sedan coming to Australia
Next model – dubbed Project Nina – should be here in 2013
Australia will miss out on the new Fisker Karma -- the world's first full-production electric-powered luxury sedan -- but will be a destination for the company's next model.
Called Project Nina, it is a fully-electric BMW 5 Series-sized car built in both left- and right-hand drive.
Former BMW and Aston Martin designer Henrik Fisker, who set up his own company in North America almost a decade ago, told the Car games sales Network at Auto Shanghai yesterday:
"With a volume of 15,000 cars a year for the Karma, it just wasn't enough to afford the investment in right-hand-drive. Even the Corvette isn't made in right-hand-drive,” he said.
"But with our next car, Project Nina, we are going to do left- and right-hand drive right away, so hopefully that car will come to Australia in 2013."
He said Project Nina is expected to reach an annual production volume of 100,000, which would enable the price to be cut dramatically.
"We plan to sell the Nina for roughly half what we sell the Karma for," he said. "In the US the Karma starts at $100,000 and in Europe it starts at 100,000 Euros because of the taxes. We price it exactly the same as a Porsche Panamera hybrid -- and we want the Nina to be about half that."
In Australia, a Porsche Panamera hybrid costs $300,000 because of luxury car tax -- so Project Nina should cost about $150,000, although it may be less than this if it is given an LCT exemption because of its environmental credentials.
Fisker didn't say whether the Project Nina would have the same eco-friendly interior as the Karma.
The leather in the Karma flagship sedan is used from aged, free range cows (none killed specifically for their hides) and some imperfections are shown because they use as much of the hide as possible.
And the timber used comes from fallen trees (none were lopped specifically for the car, Fisker says). But the car can be ordered without any animal products for those who so desire.
"People buy luxury cars for mainly two reasons: they like luxury and they like recognition," he said. "But that recognition is fading away fast. Some people don't want to drive a fancy car in London because they're worried someone will throw an egg at them. But with this car [the Karma] people can go 'wow, that's the car that uses less fuel than the Prius'."
The Karma comes off the same production line as the Porsche Boxster, run by Valmet in Finland. It is due on sale in Europe and North America mid-year.
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site...
Australia will miss out on the new Fisker Karma -- the world's first full-production electric-powered luxury sedan -- but will be a destination for the company's next model.
Called Project Nina, it is a fully-electric BMW 5 Series-sized car built in both left- and right-hand drive.
Former BMW and Aston Martin designer Henrik Fisker, who set up his own company in North America almost a decade ago, told the Car games sales Network at Auto Shanghai yesterday:
"With a volume of 15,000 cars a year for the Karma, it just wasn't enough to afford the investment in right-hand-drive. Even the Corvette isn't made in right-hand-drive,” he said.
"But with our next car, Project Nina, we are going to do left- and right-hand drive right away, so hopefully that car will come to Australia in 2013."
He said Project Nina is expected to reach an annual production volume of 100,000, which would enable the price to be cut dramatically.
"We plan to sell the Nina for roughly half what we sell the Karma for," he said. "In the US the Karma starts at $100,000 and in Europe it starts at 100,000 Euros because of the taxes. We price it exactly the same as a Porsche Panamera hybrid -- and we want the Nina to be about half that."
In Australia, a Porsche Panamera hybrid costs $300,000 because of luxury car tax -- so Project Nina should cost about $150,000, although it may be less than this if it is given an LCT exemption because of its environmental credentials.
Fisker didn't say whether the Project Nina would have the same eco-friendly interior as the Karma.
The leather in the Karma flagship sedan is used from aged, free range cows (none killed specifically for their hides) and some imperfections are shown because they use as much of the hide as possible.
And the timber used comes from fallen trees (none were lopped specifically for the car, Fisker says). But the car can be ordered without any animal products for those who so desire.
"People buy luxury cars for mainly two reasons: they like luxury and they like recognition," he said. "But that recognition is fading away fast. Some people don't want to drive a fancy car in London because they're worried someone will throw an egg at them. But with this car [the Karma] people can go 'wow, that's the car that uses less fuel than the Prius'."
The Karma comes off the same production line as the Porsche Boxster, run by Valmet in Finland. It is due on sale in Europe and North America mid-year.
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site...
SHANGHAI AUTO SHOW: China's challenge for Australia
We need to smarten up if car-making is to survive locally
The Australian vehicle manufacturing industry needs to prepare for the rapid development of China as an automotive engineering powerhouse -- or risk losing work to foreign countries.
That's the message from the ex-pat Australian boss of General Motors in China, Kevin Wale, who has overseen the country's phenomenal growth in his six-year tenure there.
The former Holden executive who has had several senior overseas postings within the GM world says China is maturing rapidly as a centre of automotive expertise -- not only for manufacturing but for design, technology and engineering.
It was the latter skills that Australia was hoping to hold-on to if local car factories were ever forced to close.
General Motors has had a design studio in China for 15 years -- and already it's bigger than Holden's facility. Other car makers are establishing design and engineering centres in China as it has been the world's biggest car market for the past two years and doesn't look like being challenged anytime soon.
The China Automotive Engineering Research Institute (CAERI), a government subsidiary established in 2007, has the ability to test new vehicles for emissions and crash protection, employs 1400 staff including technicians, professors, senior engineers, and staff with a doctor's or a master's degree. CAERI's facility occupies an area of 130,800 square metres. More facilities such as these are being planned both by the Chinese government and car makers and suppliers.
"[China] will be a dominant player in the region, there's no question," Wale told the Carsales Network at Auto Shanghai yesterday.
"China is going to have enormous capacity to develop technical skills, engineering skills and design skills, so they're going to be a force in their own right.
"So Holden is going to have to continue to do what it does best, which is find a niche where it excels and make the most of it.
"[Australia] is not big enough to dominate any of the Asian countries. China is going to be bigger than Japan. Australia could never dominate Japan, so over a period of time, China is going to build up its capability in its industrial chain, including design, manufacturing, tooling, and suppliers.
"And Australia's role will be to continue to work out where it has a unique capability and exploit its knowledge, rear-wheel-drive, ride and handling, design, whatever it is that they choose."
Wale said Holden, with its Melbourne design and engineering centre and Adelaide car factory, was well placed and well regarded by General Motors -- but the company still had to fend for itself.
"Holden is well looked after by GM and is very well regarded and they'll continue to leverage its assets," Wale said. "But it's like a footballer, once they assume they're in the side for life, and they don't start playing for their position each week, life changes. It's a big world out there and they need to stay focused."
Wale said Holden had the skills to keep pace with the change in China but would not comment on the other two car makers in Australia -- Ford and Toyota -- as they are rival brands.
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site...
The Australian vehicle manufacturing industry needs to prepare for the rapid development of China as an automotive engineering powerhouse -- or risk losing work to foreign countries.
That's the message from the ex-pat Australian boss of General Motors in China, Kevin Wale, who has overseen the country's phenomenal growth in his six-year tenure there.
The former Holden executive who has had several senior overseas postings within the GM world says China is maturing rapidly as a centre of automotive expertise -- not only for manufacturing but for design, technology and engineering.
It was the latter skills that Australia was hoping to hold-on to if local car factories were ever forced to close.
General Motors has had a design studio in China for 15 years -- and already it's bigger than Holden's facility. Other car makers are establishing design and engineering centres in China as it has been the world's biggest car market for the past two years and doesn't look like being challenged anytime soon.
The China Automotive Engineering Research Institute (CAERI), a government subsidiary established in 2007, has the ability to test new vehicles for emissions and crash protection, employs 1400 staff including technicians, professors, senior engineers, and staff with a doctor's or a master's degree. CAERI's facility occupies an area of 130,800 square metres. More facilities such as these are being planned both by the Chinese government and car makers and suppliers.
"[China] will be a dominant player in the region, there's no question," Wale told the Carsales Network at Auto Shanghai yesterday.
"China is going to have enormous capacity to develop technical skills, engineering skills and design skills, so they're going to be a force in their own right.
"So Holden is going to have to continue to do what it does best, which is find a niche where it excels and make the most of it.
"[Australia] is not big enough to dominate any of the Asian countries. China is going to be bigger than Japan. Australia could never dominate Japan, so over a period of time, China is going to build up its capability in its industrial chain, including design, manufacturing, tooling, and suppliers.
"And Australia's role will be to continue to work out where it has a unique capability and exploit its knowledge, rear-wheel-drive, ride and handling, design, whatever it is that they choose."
Wale said Holden, with its Melbourne design and engineering centre and Adelaide car factory, was well placed and well regarded by General Motors -- but the company still had to fend for itself.
"Holden is well looked after by GM and is very well regarded and they'll continue to leverage its assets," Wale said. "But it's like a footballer, once they assume they're in the side for life, and they don't start playing for their position each week, life changes. It's a big world out there and they need to stay focused."
Wale said Holden had the skills to keep pace with the change in China but would not comment on the other two car makers in Australia -- Ford and Toyota -- as they are rival brands.
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site...
SHANGHAI AUTO SHOW: Audi plans a Prius – made with carbon-fibre and aluminium
Next generation A2 small car is going to be a hi-tech hybrid
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German car maker Audi is working on a Prius of its own -- a bespoke model designed to showcase the company's innovations including hybrid power and lightweight components such as carbon-fibre and aluminium.
As part of its plans to revive its A2 small car the company says it will put all its knowhow into one affordable vehicle -- mirroring the original A2 model (pictured) which was also ahead of its time, but failed to make a profit.
"One of the niches we are looking at is to fill the gap between the A1 and A3," the head of Audi vehicle concepts, Roman Schindlmaister, told the Carsales Network at Auto Shanghai yesterday. "It will be the successor to the A2 [but] it will take the idea of the A2 into the future.
"The original A2 was a really intelligent car but the next car is not only going to use the aluminium material, but the right material on the proper place. We will not only use one material on the whole car."
He then hinted to other special edition vehicles such as the new RS3 and the Quattro concept, which uses a mix of carbon-fibre and aluminium panels. And that the next A2 it would be a hybrid vehicle.
"This car will be an interesting car in terms of new drivetrains," he said. "At the moment ... the battery gives us some problems so we have to bring it in the right position in the car," indicating that it would be packaged low in the body for better handling.
"If you have a car with a higher body maybe it's not so sporty," he said. "But if you had a car that had a progressive way to distribute the weight, then this is better."
When asked if the model would be exclusively hybrid, he said: "We are thinking about this."
When asked if the new A2 was going to look like a two-box design shape like the original A2 (or a Prius) he said: "We are not ready with the styling."
The next generation A2 is at least two to three years away, insiders estimate.
Meanwhile, although Audi has released six E-Tron electric car concepts over the past two years, only one has been approved for full production -- the original Audi R8-based E-Tron.
Audi says prototypes are testing and the finished car will be on the road by the end of 2012. Final production numbers have not been released but would be closer to 500 in total -- rather than thousands.
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discount new cars » Get the best price on a new Audi
German car maker Audi is working on a Prius of its own -- a bespoke model designed to showcase the company's innovations including hybrid power and lightweight components such as carbon-fibre and aluminium.
As part of its plans to revive its A2 small car the company says it will put all its knowhow into one affordable vehicle -- mirroring the original A2 model (pictured) which was also ahead of its time, but failed to make a profit.
"One of the niches we are looking at is to fill the gap between the A1 and A3," the head of Audi vehicle concepts, Roman Schindlmaister, told the Carsales Network at Auto Shanghai yesterday. "It will be the successor to the A2 [but] it will take the idea of the A2 into the future.
"The original A2 was a really intelligent car but the next car is not only going to use the aluminium material, but the right material on the proper place. We will not only use one material on the whole car."
He then hinted to other special edition vehicles such as the new RS3 and the Quattro concept, which uses a mix of carbon-fibre and aluminium panels. And that the next A2 it would be a hybrid vehicle.
"This car will be an interesting car in terms of new drivetrains," he said. "At the moment ... the battery gives us some problems so we have to bring it in the right position in the car," indicating that it would be packaged low in the body for better handling.
"If you have a car with a higher body maybe it's not so sporty," he said. "But if you had a car that had a progressive way to distribute the weight, then this is better."
When asked if the model would be exclusively hybrid, he said: "We are thinking about this."
When asked if the new A2 was going to look like a two-box design shape like the original A2 (or a Prius) he said: "We are not ready with the styling."
The next generation A2 is at least two to three years away, insiders estimate.
Meanwhile, although Audi has released six E-Tron electric car concepts over the past two years, only one has been approved for full production -- the original Audi R8-based E-Tron.
Audi says prototypes are testing and the finished car will be on the road by the end of 2012. Final production numbers have not been released but would be closer to 500 in total -- rather than thousands.
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site...
Thứ Hai, 12 tháng 3, 2012
McLaren's new car assault
McLaren's MP4-12C, launched in Oz last week, is just the beginning... The company has big plans for its new $60 million UK production facility
McLaren’s MP4-12C marks the beginning of a new model lineup the company says will extend to seven or more new models over the next five or six years. The company is proving quick off the mark, too: hot on the heels of the 12C, its first own-branded road car since 1991’s F1, the company has announced a GT3 racing version.
The GT3 goes to market in the UK with a price tag of £310,000 ($475K) – nearly twice the £168,000 ($257K) of the standard version launched here this week – and a list of expressions exceeding the initial 20-unit production batch by a factor of five. The extra spend buys a vehicle that has about as much in common with the ‘vanilla’ 12C as a V8 Super car games has in common with a street Commodore. More about that shortly.
The company has confirmed 1700 orders for the road-going 12C worldwide, of which 20 hail from Australia. The 12C and the track-only GT3 spearhead what Ian Gorsuch, the company’s regional director for the Middle East, Africa and Asia Pacific, says might reach a seven-model lineup in the next few years. He describes the 12C as the ‘core’ model – the first to come to market using what he says will be the company’s signature configuration: two seats, mid-mounted engine in a carbon fibre tub with hydraulic suspension.
He’s coy about where it goes from here, save to say the 12C will spawn three models directly (of the which the GT3 is the first), while new models to come using the same chassis will lower the line-up’s floor and raise the ceiling. “In terms of its usability, this a very flexible chassis, so it’s economically viable for us, even as a very small company, to spread it across a wide tract of market sectors,” he told Carsales Network.
Eventually more road models will arrive, starting downmarket from the $500K-plus, Ferrari 458-hunting 12C and working up to something in the $1 million-plus league of the radical F1 of the 1990s. Gorsuch says the company hasn’t forgotten how it feels to own the title of maker of the world’s fastest, most technologically advanced road car. “We’ve had the halo for 20 years, so it shouldn’t come as a surprise that we’ll eventually want to reassert our position there.” He will not be drawn beyond that.
However, the company is making its intentions clear in deed if not in word. This northern spring (that’s around now), McLaren Automotive will open the doors to the all-new £40m McLaren Production Centre (MPC) nextdoor to its headquarters in Woking, about 40km south-west of London.
Designed by noted architect Norman Foster’s company, the facility will manage to put out about 1000 12Cs for the global market this year. But that’s while it’s still in the sorting-out out phase. The production figure is expected to ramp up to 4000 vehicles per annum over the next 5-6 years.
Gorsuch says the company remains cautious about making promises about lead times for the time being. “At this point we’re still working out what we can supply. We’re not going into China at the moment, or Russia, because we simply don’t have enough cars to satisfy those markets, so we’ll get there later.”
The order book is already full enough to have the facility working to capacity well into 2012. Deliveries will begin next month; Australian arrivals will begin in October or November.
GT3 cars will not come out of Woking but from partner CRS Racing’s facility in Leicestershire, under the auspices of a new specialty company called McLaren GT, formed with input from McLaren’s Racing and Automotive divisions and CRS. The car uses the 12C’s 75kg ‘MonoCell’ chassis, but with track-spec brake and suspension components. Racing series rules mean the GT3 forgoes the road car’s ProActive Chassis Control system in favour of regulation roll bars and race-spec dampers.
It uses the same 3.8-litre twin-turbo V8 but tuned to race specification, reducing output to 368kw from the road car’s 441kW. In place of the 12C’s seven-speed DCT is a Ricardo-supplied six-cog sequential unit which alone cuts 80kg off the car’s weight. The GT3 gets all-new electricals developed in-house, a new Bosch-made ABS. Its race series-compliant aerodynamics include a new front splitter, door blade, rear wing, diffuser and louvres in the front fenders.
After next year’s consignment, about 20 more GT3s will come on stream in 2013, and the same again in 2014. Asked about cars for other racing series and, McLaren and CRS told UK press in statements that they’re ‘open-minded and optimistic’ about the idea.
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site.
McLaren’s MP4-12C marks the beginning of a new model lineup the company says will extend to seven or more new models over the next five or six years. The company is proving quick off the mark, too: hot on the heels of the 12C, its first own-branded road car since 1991’s F1, the company has announced a GT3 racing version.
The GT3 goes to market in the UK with a price tag of £310,000 ($475K) – nearly twice the £168,000 ($257K) of the standard version launched here this week – and a list of expressions exceeding the initial 20-unit production batch by a factor of five. The extra spend buys a vehicle that has about as much in common with the ‘vanilla’ 12C as a V8 Super car games has in common with a street Commodore. More about that shortly.
The company has confirmed 1700 orders for the road-going 12C worldwide, of which 20 hail from Australia. The 12C and the track-only GT3 spearhead what Ian Gorsuch, the company’s regional director for the Middle East, Africa and Asia Pacific, says might reach a seven-model lineup in the next few years. He describes the 12C as the ‘core’ model – the first to come to market using what he says will be the company’s signature configuration: two seats, mid-mounted engine in a carbon fibre tub with hydraulic suspension.
He’s coy about where it goes from here, save to say the 12C will spawn three models directly (of the which the GT3 is the first), while new models to come using the same chassis will lower the line-up’s floor and raise the ceiling. “In terms of its usability, this a very flexible chassis, so it’s economically viable for us, even as a very small company, to spread it across a wide tract of market sectors,” he told Carsales Network.
Eventually more road models will arrive, starting downmarket from the $500K-plus, Ferrari 458-hunting 12C and working up to something in the $1 million-plus league of the radical F1 of the 1990s. Gorsuch says the company hasn’t forgotten how it feels to own the title of maker of the world’s fastest, most technologically advanced road car. “We’ve had the halo for 20 years, so it shouldn’t come as a surprise that we’ll eventually want to reassert our position there.” He will not be drawn beyond that.
However, the company is making its intentions clear in deed if not in word. This northern spring (that’s around now), McLaren Automotive will open the doors to the all-new £40m McLaren Production Centre (MPC) nextdoor to its headquarters in Woking, about 40km south-west of London.
Designed by noted architect Norman Foster’s company, the facility will manage to put out about 1000 12Cs for the global market this year. But that’s while it’s still in the sorting-out out phase. The production figure is expected to ramp up to 4000 vehicles per annum over the next 5-6 years.
Gorsuch says the company remains cautious about making promises about lead times for the time being. “At this point we’re still working out what we can supply. We’re not going into China at the moment, or Russia, because we simply don’t have enough cars to satisfy those markets, so we’ll get there later.”
The order book is already full enough to have the facility working to capacity well into 2012. Deliveries will begin next month; Australian arrivals will begin in October or November.
GT3 cars will not come out of Woking but from partner CRS Racing’s facility in Leicestershire, under the auspices of a new specialty company called McLaren GT, formed with input from McLaren’s Racing and Automotive divisions and CRS. The car uses the 12C’s 75kg ‘MonoCell’ chassis, but with track-spec brake and suspension components. Racing series rules mean the GT3 forgoes the road car’s ProActive Chassis Control system in favour of regulation roll bars and race-spec dampers.
It uses the same 3.8-litre twin-turbo V8 but tuned to race specification, reducing output to 368kw from the road car’s 441kW. In place of the 12C’s seven-speed DCT is a Ricardo-supplied six-cog sequential unit which alone cuts 80kg off the car’s weight. The GT3 gets all-new electricals developed in-house, a new Bosch-made ABS. Its race series-compliant aerodynamics include a new front splitter, door blade, rear wing, diffuser and louvres in the front fenders.
After next year’s consignment, about 20 more GT3s will come on stream in 2013, and the same again in 2014. Asked about cars for other racing series and, McLaren and CRS told UK press in statements that they’re ‘open-minded and optimistic’ about the idea.
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site.
Electric Dream: Just call me Julia
Jessica O'Brien, winner of the carsales.com.au 'Electric Dream' competition, updates us on what it's like living with Mitsubishi's plug-in i-MiEV city car
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(Insert Julia Gillard tone): In light of the Federal Budget, for my third blog I would like to shift gears to (P) politics. Like the great decision to boost Aussie funding for mental health, the iMiEV has boosted enviro-mental health (and it has also put my petrol budget back in surplus).
So I would like to introduce the political Mitsubishi i-MiEV:
• It is both electrically and politically charged.
• It is economical to run and topical in the running of the economy.
• It's running on electrons, a running argument in recently elections.
Maybe the car should be called Polly?
Needless to say, the i-MieV has a lot more to it than just a battery. This electric-socket-rocket represents a driving force in the political environment.
(Continue politically persuasive tone): So it is my promise to you, that if you elect to read my blog today I will dance lightly around some political emissions that the car releases into our atmosphere.
Phew! Political rhetoric is exhausting.
Yet, it is unavoidable when it comes to electric vehicles. This renewed concept has taken the prime position in current debates; parked right between global warming and fuel prices.
The media is bumper to bumper with arguments concerning electric 'fuel' vs. fossil fuel. Do we refuse to give up gas, ditch diesel and leave petrol to fossilize along with dinosaur skeletons and analogue televisions?
Do we render fuel redundant rather than drill our Libyan neighbors for more?
Are electric cars a fad that has returned as flippantly as faux fur?
This blogger doesn't think so.
It could be that these new innovative vehicles are a bolt of en-lightening in our political environment. However, only time and reviews (like this one) will truly reveal the environmental, political and economic response from the Australian public.
It is up to Australians to voice their opinions on what they think. I have tried to harness this notion from the word go, as an independent thinking woman (that you can still catch at home in a pile of irony).
I have certainly used this strength to break down some boundaries in my own front yard, in order to ensure that this vehicle for environmentalism remains a driving force on Victorian roads.
Seriously, on Wednesday morning, I literally kicked down my jammed fence in an effort to get to work on time.
Talk about progress.
Sincerely,
Senator Jess Brown... I mean O'Brien.
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site.
discount new cars » Get the best price on a new Mitsubishi
(Insert Julia Gillard tone): In light of the Federal Budget, for my third blog I would like to shift gears to (P) politics. Like the great decision to boost Aussie funding for mental health, the iMiEV has boosted enviro-mental health (and it has also put my petrol budget back in surplus).
So I would like to introduce the political Mitsubishi i-MiEV:
• It is both electrically and politically charged.
• It is economical to run and topical in the running of the economy.
• It's running on electrons, a running argument in recently elections.
Maybe the car should be called Polly?
Needless to say, the i-MieV has a lot more to it than just a battery. This electric-socket-rocket represents a driving force in the political environment.
(Continue politically persuasive tone): So it is my promise to you, that if you elect to read my blog today I will dance lightly around some political emissions that the car releases into our atmosphere.
Phew! Political rhetoric is exhausting.
Yet, it is unavoidable when it comes to electric vehicles. This renewed concept has taken the prime position in current debates; parked right between global warming and fuel prices.
The media is bumper to bumper with arguments concerning electric 'fuel' vs. fossil fuel. Do we refuse to give up gas, ditch diesel and leave petrol to fossilize along with dinosaur skeletons and analogue televisions?
Do we render fuel redundant rather than drill our Libyan neighbors for more?
Are electric cars a fad that has returned as flippantly as faux fur?
This blogger doesn't think so.
It could be that these new innovative vehicles are a bolt of en-lightening in our political environment. However, only time and reviews (like this one) will truly reveal the environmental, political and economic response from the Australian public.
It is up to Australians to voice their opinions on what they think. I have tried to harness this notion from the word go, as an independent thinking woman (that you can still catch at home in a pile of irony).
I have certainly used this strength to break down some boundaries in my own front yard, in order to ensure that this vehicle for environmentalism remains a driving force on Victorian roads.
Seriously, on Wednesday morning, I literally kicked down my jammed fence in an effort to get to work on time.
Talk about progress.
Sincerely,
Senator Jess Brown... I mean O'Brien.
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site.
Dartz Prombron' Nagel armoured sportback
So, you want a 250km/h sportscar, a vehicle with which to tow your yacht, and an armoured car to keep baddies at bay? You'll need one of these then...
For once we're a little lost for words. It's hard to know quite what to make of the Dartz Prombron' Nagel, a kooky Russian contraption that's billed as "an armoured sportback made for hauling yachts".
The oddball Nagel is the result of a collaborative effort between Russian/Latvian niche manufacturer RussoBaltique (purveyor of a range of completely OTT cars, SUVs and trailers) and Sweden's Gray Design, best known for turning out ultra-luxury yachts and cruisers.
The Dartz Prombron' Nagel is unique, to say the least, because not only is at armour-plated to ward off the threat of nefarious types, it's also said to be capable of hitting 250km/h and towing a five-tonne yacht up to 15 metres in length – although probably not both at the same time.
What makes this sort of velocity and pulling possible is a 1471kW (2000 horsepower) powerplant, although the company has thus far released no technical specifics about the latter.
Despite its hulking girth, its makers say the Nagel is "no heavyweight Ivan Drago, as the sporting spirit is experienced through the specially created 2000hp engine inside."
The sinister looking vehicle's moniker is a tribute to Andrey Nagel who, along with co-driver Vadim Mikhailoff, won the Monte Carlo Rally way back in 1911 in a C24/55 Monaco RussoBalt (RussoBalt being the company from which Dartz Prombron' was derived).
The Nagel's chiselled bodywork was penned by Eduard Gray of Gray Design, and it's said to be built on the Dartz Prombron' platform "using the world's safest KAPSULA technology to ensure the greatest peace of mind for its passengers".
The company also boasts: "Like all Dartz cars, the armour makes it heavy enough ensure a smooth ride when towing yachts up to five tonnes in weight and up to 15m in length".
We've got nothing further to add. We're still gobsmacked...
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site.
For once we're a little lost for words. It's hard to know quite what to make of the Dartz Prombron' Nagel, a kooky Russian contraption that's billed as "an armoured sportback made for hauling yachts".
The oddball Nagel is the result of a collaborative effort between Russian/Latvian niche manufacturer RussoBaltique (purveyor of a range of completely OTT cars, SUVs and trailers) and Sweden's Gray Design, best known for turning out ultra-luxury yachts and cruisers.
The Dartz Prombron' Nagel is unique, to say the least, because not only is at armour-plated to ward off the threat of nefarious types, it's also said to be capable of hitting 250km/h and towing a five-tonne yacht up to 15 metres in length – although probably not both at the same time.
What makes this sort of velocity and pulling possible is a 1471kW (2000 horsepower) powerplant, although the company has thus far released no technical specifics about the latter.
Despite its hulking girth, its makers say the Nagel is "no heavyweight Ivan Drago, as the sporting spirit is experienced through the specially created 2000hp engine inside."
The sinister looking vehicle's moniker is a tribute to Andrey Nagel who, along with co-driver Vadim Mikhailoff, won the Monte Carlo Rally way back in 1911 in a C24/55 Monaco RussoBalt (RussoBalt being the company from which Dartz Prombron' was derived).
The Nagel's chiselled bodywork was penned by Eduard Gray of Gray Design, and it's said to be built on the Dartz Prombron' platform "using the world's safest KAPSULA technology to ensure the greatest peace of mind for its passengers".
The company also boasts: "Like all Dartz cars, the armour makes it heavy enough ensure a smooth ride when towing yachts up to five tonnes in weight and up to 15m in length".
We've got nothing further to add. We're still gobsmacked...
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site.
Honda's financial year price drop
Honda Australia announces repositioned pricing across its passenger, MPV and SUV range
discount new cars » Get the best price on a new Honda
With the new financial year rapidly approaching, Honda Australia has announced a major overhaul of its model pricing, with savings in excess of $6200 on certain models.
Effective June 1, the adjustments are inclusive of Jazz, CR-V, Odyssey, Accord and Accord Euro.
The repositioning sees light-hatch Jazz reduced by between $1,400 and $2,000, the entry-level Jazz GLi manual now beginning at $14,990.
Honda's compact SUV, the CR-V has been reduced by as much as $3,400, the starting price now $28,090 for the Base model manual.
People mover Odyssey attracts the most important on-going reduction, the generously-equipped Odyssey Luxury reduced by a significant $3,570.
Family sedan models also receive generous price reductions with a limited number of model year 2010 Accord and 2011 Accord Euro models also up for grabs. Notably, the Accord V6 L automatic is reduced by almost $6300.
"This new pricing structure underlines Honda's commitment to our customers, to deliver vehicles of exceptional quality, reliability and high levels of safety that are excellent value for money and are fun to drive," said Honda Australia Senior Director, Lindsay Smalley.
Honda's revised pricing is detailed below. For more information visit www.honda.com.au/cars
Honda Jazz pricing:
Jazz GLi $14,990 (man.) / $16,990 (auto.)
Jazz VTi $17,790 (man.) / $19,790 (auto.)
Jazz VTi-S $20,990 (auto. only)
Honda CR-V pricing:
CR-V Base $28,090 (man.) / $30,390 (auto.)
CR-V Sport $33,090 (man.) / $35,390 (auto.)
CR-V Luxury $39,390 (auto. only)
Honda Odyssey pricing:
Odyssey Base $39,100 (auto. only)
Odyssey Luxury $45,920 (auto. only)
Honda Accord Euro pricing:
Accord Euro Base $29,340 (man.) / $31,640 (auto.)
Accord Euro Luxury $36,840 (man.) / $39,140 (auto.)
Accord Euro Luxury Navi $42,140 (auto. only)
Honda Accord pricing:
Accord VTi $28,199 (auto. only)
Accord VTi-L $34,507 (auto. only)
Accord V6 L $43,731 (auto.only)
* Price excludes on-road, dealer delivery and statutory charges
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at the carsales mobile site
discount new cars » Get the best price on a new Honda
With the new financial year rapidly approaching, Honda Australia has announced a major overhaul of its model pricing, with savings in excess of $6200 on certain models.
Effective June 1, the adjustments are inclusive of Jazz, CR-V, Odyssey, Accord and Accord Euro.
The repositioning sees light-hatch Jazz reduced by between $1,400 and $2,000, the entry-level Jazz GLi manual now beginning at $14,990.
Honda's compact SUV, the CR-V has been reduced by as much as $3,400, the starting price now $28,090 for the Base model manual.
People mover Odyssey attracts the most important on-going reduction, the generously-equipped Odyssey Luxury reduced by a significant $3,570.
Family sedan models also receive generous price reductions with a limited number of model year 2010 Accord and 2011 Accord Euro models also up for grabs. Notably, the Accord V6 L automatic is reduced by almost $6300.
"This new pricing structure underlines Honda's commitment to our customers, to deliver vehicles of exceptional quality, reliability and high levels of safety that are excellent value for money and are fun to drive," said Honda Australia Senior Director, Lindsay Smalley.
Honda's revised pricing is detailed below. For more information visit www.honda.com.au/cars
Honda Jazz pricing:
Jazz GLi $14,990 (man.) / $16,990 (auto.)
Jazz VTi $17,790 (man.) / $19,790 (auto.)
Jazz VTi-S $20,990 (auto. only)
Honda CR-V pricing:
CR-V Base $28,090 (man.) / $30,390 (auto.)
CR-V Sport $33,090 (man.) / $35,390 (auto.)
CR-V Luxury $39,390 (auto. only)
Honda Odyssey pricing:
Odyssey Base $39,100 (auto. only)
Odyssey Luxury $45,920 (auto. only)
Honda Accord Euro pricing:
Accord Euro Base $29,340 (man.) / $31,640 (auto.)
Accord Euro Luxury $36,840 (man.) / $39,140 (auto.)
Accord Euro Luxury Navi $42,140 (auto. only)
Honda Accord pricing:
Accord VTi $28,199 (auto. only)
Accord VTi-L $34,507 (auto. only)
Accord V6 L $43,731 (auto.only)
* Price excludes on-road, dealer delivery and statutory charges
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at the carsales mobile site
Audi targets MINI Cooper S
German prestige car maker Audi will actively target the MINI Cooper S with its A1 Sport model, and an Audi S1 could also be on the cards...
prestige new cars » Get the best price on a new Audi
The Audi A1 Sport is Ingolstadt's answer to the performance oriented MINI Cooper S, a vehicle that has ruled the prestige hot-hatch niche for several years.
Finding a growing number of fans, the MINI Cooper S could soon find its market share is under siege if Audi gets it way.
Propelled by a more powerful twincharged four-cylinder engine (using both turbo and supercharging to increase torque) than its main rival, the Audi A1 Sport will be actively targeting the MINI Cooper S buyers and owners, as Audi Australia's Product Manager, John Roberts explained.
"We've successfully established the A1 in the Australian market and we expect to [take sales from MINI]. In terms of conquests, yes, we will be eating into the MINI share with this new model."
And could the Audi A1 Sport also find favour with disgruntled VW Polo GTI buyers who have been told there's a six to 12 month waiting list for cars games? Both cars share the same engine and have similar performance measurements, but Roberts says it's unlikely potential Volkswagen buyers will jump ship.
"We would see the customer of the Polo GTI and Audi A1 Sport as quite different," explained Roberts.
"We believe that the A1 Sport is a sportier proposition. It has differences to the Polo GTI in terms of wider track and there's a lot of differences in terms of rigidity and more direct steering."
"From the interior it's quite different. The premium fit and finish and feel, and the range of options that you have ... so with the A1 Sport there's a lot of scope there. We have a well-equipped base model, then a lot of possibilities on top with more options, packages and customisations."
Could the Audi A1 Sport experience the same supply and demand pressures that have left Polo GTI customers unhappy in Australia? Roberts says there will be no supply shortfall: "We're well equipped with these models in terms of forecasting and production planning. I don't expect supply to be an issue."
And what about a MINI Cooper S JCW-rivalling Audi S1 model? The idea of an A1 with an all-wheel drive quattro drivetrain and a 160kW power output would certainly have appeal in Australia and Roberts didn't deny its potential.
"We can't confirm anything in terms of if an S1 would come to Australia, but I think there's room in the A1 range for development, in terms of other [sports] variants. We're always looking for the opportunity to expand the range."
Audi Australia's Product Manager left the door slightly ajar for the possibility of an RS1 model when asked about the Porsche 911-slaying Audi A1 Clubsport quattro concept, saying it is "Purely a concept car at this point in time, but it gives people an idea of what's possible with the A1."
Visit the Carsales Network again for details and pricing of the Australian specification Audi A1 Sport.
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site.
prestige new cars » Get the best price on a new Audi
The Audi A1 Sport is Ingolstadt's answer to the performance oriented MINI Cooper S, a vehicle that has ruled the prestige hot-hatch niche for several years.
Finding a growing number of fans, the MINI Cooper S could soon find its market share is under siege if Audi gets it way.
Propelled by a more powerful twincharged four-cylinder engine (using both turbo and supercharging to increase torque) than its main rival, the Audi A1 Sport will be actively targeting the MINI Cooper S buyers and owners, as Audi Australia's Product Manager, John Roberts explained.
"We've successfully established the A1 in the Australian market and we expect to [take sales from MINI]. In terms of conquests, yes, we will be eating into the MINI share with this new model."
And could the Audi A1 Sport also find favour with disgruntled VW Polo GTI buyers who have been told there's a six to 12 month waiting list for cars games? Both cars share the same engine and have similar performance measurements, but Roberts says it's unlikely potential Volkswagen buyers will jump ship.
"We would see the customer of the Polo GTI and Audi A1 Sport as quite different," explained Roberts.
"We believe that the A1 Sport is a sportier proposition. It has differences to the Polo GTI in terms of wider track and there's a lot of differences in terms of rigidity and more direct steering."
"From the interior it's quite different. The premium fit and finish and feel, and the range of options that you have ... so with the A1 Sport there's a lot of scope there. We have a well-equipped base model, then a lot of possibilities on top with more options, packages and customisations."
Could the Audi A1 Sport experience the same supply and demand pressures that have left Polo GTI customers unhappy in Australia? Roberts says there will be no supply shortfall: "We're well equipped with these models in terms of forecasting and production planning. I don't expect supply to be an issue."
And what about a MINI Cooper S JCW-rivalling Audi S1 model? The idea of an A1 with an all-wheel drive quattro drivetrain and a 160kW power output would certainly have appeal in Australia and Roberts didn't deny its potential.
"We can't confirm anything in terms of if an S1 would come to Australia, but I think there's room in the A1 range for development, in terms of other [sports] variants. We're always looking for the opportunity to expand the range."
Audi Australia's Product Manager left the door slightly ajar for the possibility of an RS1 model when asked about the Porsche 911-slaying Audi A1 Clubsport quattro concept, saying it is "Purely a concept car at this point in time, but it gives people an idea of what's possible with the A1."
Visit the Carsales Network again for details and pricing of the Australian specification Audi A1 Sport.
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site.
VFACTS for May: Battle for market supremacy
Just 71 vehicles separated Holden and Toyota during May, with the GM brand taking the spoils for the month
Toyota is beset by supply issues, following the natural disasters in Japan during March. Holden has just launched its Australian-built version of the Cruze small car. And as we reported yesterday, these two seemingly unrelated matters have handed Holden market leadership for the month of May, according to figures released by industry statistician, VFACTS.
The change of fortunes for Australia's two largest-selling companies may be short-lived. Toyota has gone on the front foot, issuing a press release quoting liberally from senior executive director sales and marketing, David Buttner.
In the release, Buttner apologised to Toyota customers for the stock shortages that have hampered Toyota's sales. He was also quoted saying that the May supply problems would be largely alleviated in June and the company will be back on track at normal logistical levels in July.
"In July we will receive almost the full quota of cars we ordered well before Japan's natural disasters occurred," Buttner said.
"For the rest of the year, our business will basically be back to normal, thanks to a faster-than-expected pick-up in production."
Production of Camry and Aurion at Toyota's Altona plant is anticipated to return to normal output before the middle of June and the Thai factory that builds the HiLux is already running at full capacity, with plant management arranging overtime to fill the backlog of orders for the light commercial vehicle. Toyota also expects Japanese production of its other locally-delivered models to reach 90 per cent of normal levels during June.
Buttner played down Holden's windfall for the month.
"We regard the respectful treatment of our customers and potential customers as a far more important measure of success than a single month's sales," he was quoted as saying.
Holden attributed its success largely to the market appeal of Commodore, Cruze and Captiva rather than Toyota's misfortunes, although its press release did refer obliquely to Toyota in noting "the difficult circumstances many of the competitors were facing". Between them, Commodore and Cruze provided Holden with the two best-selling cars in the market, for the month of May.
Captiva 7 topped the medium SUV segment with 1010 sales, Cruze was the most popular small car with 2914 sales and Commodore was not only the best-selling large car — with 3504 sales — it was the most popular new car across the whole market.
"After a slow start to the year and a challenging few months for the global and local car industry, May has been a positive result for Holden," John Elsworth was quoted as saying in Holden's press release.
"Public reaction to our new and improved Series II range of models is pleasing, and we’re seeing strong enquiry and sales across a number of Holden carlines," Holden's Executive Director of Sales, Marketing and Aftersales continued.
"It's an exciting time for Holden. Series II Cruze sales are gaining momentum each month and the punchy 1.4-litre iTi powertrain and the new SRi and SRi-V sports models have exceeded our expectations.
"The work we've done to make Commodore even more family-friendly with clever multimedia technology and improved fuel economy has paid off and it continues to do well for Holden."
"We've got a great product portfolio with the right mix to respond to customer requirements."
At 77,406 units, the total market for May, according to VFACTS, was down 13.2 per cent on the result for May of last year. Passenger vehicles, SUVs and light commercial vehicles all contributed to the drop, with passenger vehicles performing worst. Sales in the category for the month (42,582) decreased by 7868 vehicles (-15.6 per cent). SUVs (17,121) slumped by 14.7 per cent, but since the category accounts for a smaller share of the market than passenger vehicles, that amounted to a shortfall of 'just' 2944 sales during May. LCVs (15,240) suffered less than the other two categories in May, with its 6.4 per cent difference, year on year, amounting to 1043 fewer sales than in May 2010.
The Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries is still forecasting a one-million market for 2011, but that figure is based on seasonally adjusted calculations and may not hold true if the importers affected by the quake and tsunami in March can't get back on their feet soon enough.
The top ten selling car companies for the year to date were: Toyota (72,614), Holden (49,743), Ford (36,008), Mazda (35,170), Hyundai (34,444), Nissan (27,599), Mitsubishi (25,283), Subaru (15,642), Volkswagen (15,415) and Honda (12,191). Mazda, Hyundai, Mitsubishi and Volkswagen are ahead of their sales tally for the same period last year. The other car companies have fallen behind.
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Toyota is beset by supply issues, following the natural disasters in Japan during March. Holden has just launched its Australian-built version of the Cruze small car. And as we reported yesterday, these two seemingly unrelated matters have handed Holden market leadership for the month of May, according to figures released by industry statistician, VFACTS.
The change of fortunes for Australia's two largest-selling companies may be short-lived. Toyota has gone on the front foot, issuing a press release quoting liberally from senior executive director sales and marketing, David Buttner.
In the release, Buttner apologised to Toyota customers for the stock shortages that have hampered Toyota's sales. He was also quoted saying that the May supply problems would be largely alleviated in June and the company will be back on track at normal logistical levels in July.
"In July we will receive almost the full quota of cars we ordered well before Japan's natural disasters occurred," Buttner said.
"For the rest of the year, our business will basically be back to normal, thanks to a faster-than-expected pick-up in production."
Production of Camry and Aurion at Toyota's Altona plant is anticipated to return to normal output before the middle of June and the Thai factory that builds the HiLux is already running at full capacity, with plant management arranging overtime to fill the backlog of orders for the light commercial vehicle. Toyota also expects Japanese production of its other locally-delivered models to reach 90 per cent of normal levels during June.
Buttner played down Holden's windfall for the month.
"We regard the respectful treatment of our customers and potential customers as a far more important measure of success than a single month's sales," he was quoted as saying.
Holden attributed its success largely to the market appeal of Commodore, Cruze and Captiva rather than Toyota's misfortunes, although its press release did refer obliquely to Toyota in noting "the difficult circumstances many of the competitors were facing". Between them, Commodore and Cruze provided Holden with the two best-selling cars in the market, for the month of May.
Captiva 7 topped the medium SUV segment with 1010 sales, Cruze was the most popular small car with 2914 sales and Commodore was not only the best-selling large car — with 3504 sales — it was the most popular new car across the whole market.
"After a slow start to the year and a challenging few months for the global and local car industry, May has been a positive result for Holden," John Elsworth was quoted as saying in Holden's press release.
"Public reaction to our new and improved Series II range of models is pleasing, and we’re seeing strong enquiry and sales across a number of Holden carlines," Holden's Executive Director of Sales, Marketing and Aftersales continued.
"It's an exciting time for Holden. Series II Cruze sales are gaining momentum each month and the punchy 1.4-litre iTi powertrain and the new SRi and SRi-V sports models have exceeded our expectations.
"The work we've done to make Commodore even more family-friendly with clever multimedia technology and improved fuel economy has paid off and it continues to do well for Holden."
"We've got a great product portfolio with the right mix to respond to customer requirements."
At 77,406 units, the total market for May, according to VFACTS, was down 13.2 per cent on the result for May of last year. Passenger vehicles, SUVs and light commercial vehicles all contributed to the drop, with passenger vehicles performing worst. Sales in the category for the month (42,582) decreased by 7868 vehicles (-15.6 per cent). SUVs (17,121) slumped by 14.7 per cent, but since the category accounts for a smaller share of the market than passenger vehicles, that amounted to a shortfall of 'just' 2944 sales during May. LCVs (15,240) suffered less than the other two categories in May, with its 6.4 per cent difference, year on year, amounting to 1043 fewer sales than in May 2010.
The Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries is still forecasting a one-million market for 2011, but that figure is based on seasonally adjusted calculations and may not hold true if the importers affected by the quake and tsunami in March can't get back on their feet soon enough.
The top ten selling car companies for the year to date were: Toyota (72,614), Holden (49,743), Ford (36,008), Mazda (35,170), Hyundai (34,444), Nissan (27,599), Mitsubishi (25,283), Subaru (15,642), Volkswagen (15,415) and Honda (12,191). Mazda, Hyundai, Mitsubishi and Volkswagen are ahead of their sales tally for the same period last year. The other car companies have fallen behind.
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BMW's super-efficient concept car headed to Oz
Futuristic yet frugal, BMW's Concept Vision EfficientDynamics is confirmed for an Aussie debut at AIMS
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BMW is bringing the sleekly-styled design study, the Concept Vision EfficientDynamics, to Melbourne for the Australian International Motor Show (AIMS).
It's the only occasion the radical design will be seen in the country, according to BMW Australia, presumably because the company acknowledges that the concept car is the basis for a production version, the i8, which will be sold by BMW under its 'i' brand.
As we reported back in March, the production i8 will closely resemble the concept car, which made its global debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show two years ago. Two years is a relatively long time for a concept car to be on the promotional circuit, which could be another reason we won't be seeing the likes of it here again.
The four-seat concept will be the hero of BMW's stand in Melbourne and will introduce the general public here to the company's mix of ActiveHybrid technology and sporty packaging. Capable of knocking off the 0-100km/h sprint in 4.8 seconds, the Concept Vision EfficientDynamics is powered by a three-cylinder turbodiesel and two electric motors in a plug-in hybrid-drive configuration. One electric motor drives through the front wheels and the other sends its torque to the rear. Combined power from the two synchronous motors and the turbodiesel peaks at 241kW.
BMW claims a fuel consumption figure of 3.76L/100km and CO2 emissions of 99g/km for the concept — a result of combining the efficiency of the drivetrain system with light weight and the car's exceptionally slippery drag coefficient of 0.22Cd.
The electric motors draw their power from a lithium-polymer battery that can be recharged from a domestic electric supply, meaning production versions of the car should never need drive to the service station to fill the diesel tank if motoring is limited to round trips of no more than 50km. BMW estimates the time required to recharge the battery from an AC Mains outlet would be two and a half hours. Using the diesel engine to recharge the battery — and provide additional motive power — would extend the vehicle's range to 700km.
"Through the Australian International Motor Show in Melbourne, we have the rare opportunity to show a concept car to Australians that exhibits everything that BMW represent in terms of sustainable future mobility, and our dedication to improving efficiency, minimising emissions whilst never compromising the performance BMW is famous for," said BMW Australia Managing Director Phil Horton.
"This is a vehicle that proves sustainable motoring can still be an enthralling experience, and Australians will be able to enjoy this for themselves, when it goes into production in the form of the BMW i8.
"The Vision EfficientDynamics Concept is proof that maximising the efficiency and emissions of motor vehicles through BMW EfficientDynamics technologies does not have to mean under-performing cars, because creating the Ultimate Driving Machine will always sit at the heart of every car we produce."
AIMS opens at the Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre from 6pm on Friday 1 July and concludes Sunday 10 July.
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BMW is bringing the sleekly-styled design study, the Concept Vision EfficientDynamics, to Melbourne for the Australian International Motor Show (AIMS).
It's the only occasion the radical design will be seen in the country, according to BMW Australia, presumably because the company acknowledges that the concept car is the basis for a production version, the i8, which will be sold by BMW under its 'i' brand.
As we reported back in March, the production i8 will closely resemble the concept car, which made its global debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show two years ago. Two years is a relatively long time for a concept car to be on the promotional circuit, which could be another reason we won't be seeing the likes of it here again.
The four-seat concept will be the hero of BMW's stand in Melbourne and will introduce the general public here to the company's mix of ActiveHybrid technology and sporty packaging. Capable of knocking off the 0-100km/h sprint in 4.8 seconds, the Concept Vision EfficientDynamics is powered by a three-cylinder turbodiesel and two electric motors in a plug-in hybrid-drive configuration. One electric motor drives through the front wheels and the other sends its torque to the rear. Combined power from the two synchronous motors and the turbodiesel peaks at 241kW.
BMW claims a fuel consumption figure of 3.76L/100km and CO2 emissions of 99g/km for the concept — a result of combining the efficiency of the drivetrain system with light weight and the car's exceptionally slippery drag coefficient of 0.22Cd.
The electric motors draw their power from a lithium-polymer battery that can be recharged from a domestic electric supply, meaning production versions of the car should never need drive to the service station to fill the diesel tank if motoring is limited to round trips of no more than 50km. BMW estimates the time required to recharge the battery from an AC Mains outlet would be two and a half hours. Using the diesel engine to recharge the battery — and provide additional motive power — would extend the vehicle's range to 700km.
"Through the Australian International Motor Show in Melbourne, we have the rare opportunity to show a concept car to Australians that exhibits everything that BMW represent in terms of sustainable future mobility, and our dedication to improving efficiency, minimising emissions whilst never compromising the performance BMW is famous for," said BMW Australia Managing Director Phil Horton.
"This is a vehicle that proves sustainable motoring can still be an enthralling experience, and Australians will be able to enjoy this for themselves, when it goes into production in the form of the BMW i8.
"The Vision EfficientDynamics Concept is proof that maximising the efficiency and emissions of motor vehicles through BMW EfficientDynamics technologies does not have to mean under-performing cars, because creating the Ultimate Driving Machine will always sit at the heart of every car we produce."
AIMS opens at the Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre from 6pm on Friday 1 July and concludes Sunday 10 July.
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Super Fabia revealed at Wörthersee
Fabia RS 2000 design concept underscores Škoda's presence at this year's GTI-Treffen in Reifnitz
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The 30th annual GTI-Treffen gathering at Reifnitz by Lake Wörthersee has again attracted VW and Skoda fans from all over Europe, keen to partake in celebrations for the 35th anniversary of the Golf GTI and bear witness to the Volkswagen group's latest offerings.
Among that list is Škoda's latest pocket rocket, the Fabia RS 2000. A design concept prepared especially for the anniversary meeting, the car appeared alongside the rally version, Fabia Super 2000, sporty Fabia RS and Fabia Monte Carlo.
"These days, the GTI-Treffen is rightly hailed by fans of powerful engines and sporty customization as the Mecca of car tuning," said Škoda boss, Winfried Vahland.
"Anyone who comes to the event once never wants to miss another year of this fascinating get-together.
"The jubilee year of 2011 is a welcome opportunity for us to show off our sports models and make sure that everyone knows that Škoda really has something to offer here."
The Fabia RS 2000 draws many of its design cues from the Fabia Super 2000 rally car, the roadster said to possess dynamism and promote the joy of sporty driving.
There's no word yet as to whether the model will ever make production. But if the support shown at this year's event is anything to go by, we'd like to think such a move would be simply clever.
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discount new cars » Get the best price on a new Škoda
The 30th annual GTI-Treffen gathering at Reifnitz by Lake Wörthersee has again attracted VW and Skoda fans from all over Europe, keen to partake in celebrations for the 35th anniversary of the Golf GTI and bear witness to the Volkswagen group's latest offerings.
Among that list is Škoda's latest pocket rocket, the Fabia RS 2000. A design concept prepared especially for the anniversary meeting, the car appeared alongside the rally version, Fabia Super 2000, sporty Fabia RS and Fabia Monte Carlo.
"These days, the GTI-Treffen is rightly hailed by fans of powerful engines and sporty customization as the Mecca of car tuning," said Škoda boss, Winfried Vahland.
"Anyone who comes to the event once never wants to miss another year of this fascinating get-together.
"The jubilee year of 2011 is a welcome opportunity for us to show off our sports models and make sure that everyone knows that Škoda really has something to offer here."
The Fabia RS 2000 draws many of its design cues from the Fabia Super 2000 rally car, the roadster said to possess dynamism and promote the joy of sporty driving.
There's no word yet as to whether the model will ever make production. But if the support shown at this year's event is anything to go by, we'd like to think such a move would be simply clever.
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at the carsales mobile site
Chủ Nhật, 11 tháng 3, 2012
Hyundai Genesis coupe for Australia in 2015
The current version of the company flagship won't make it but the next one will
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The sleek Genesis coupe that has earned Hyundai much kudos in North America will not make it to Australia -- but the next generation model will.
Hyundai Australia has been asking for the flagship coupe ever since it went on sale in overseas markets in 2009.
But so far the sporty V6 has been built in left-hand drive only.
It is too late in the current model's (pictured) lifecycle to do a conversion to right-hand drive for Australia and other countries, but Hyundai now recognises the car games importance as an image leader.
Speaking at a roundtable conference at Hyundai headquarters in Seoul yesterday, company president and CEO Steve S Yang told Australian journalists: "The right-hand drive coupe will be available for Australia and other RHD countries," referring to the next generation model due in 2015.
However after Hyundai earlier initially hinted that the award-winning Genesis sedan would come to Australia, Mr Yang said: "At the moment we don't have any plans for the RHD Genesis sedan.
"We are trying our best to meet customers' needs all over the world but we have to think about profitability.
"We know there is a market for RHD sedan for Australia, and maybe Singapore, Hong Kong, South Africa, how many of the RHD do you think we can sell? Maybe we can sell 1000 to 2000 to Australia."
In the meantime, Hyundai will rely on the cute three-door Veloster as its image leader.
The Accent-based hatch with futuristic looks is due in Australian showrooms later this year, likely priced between $20,000 and $30,000.
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discount new cars » Get the best price on a new Hyundai
The sleek Genesis coupe that has earned Hyundai much kudos in North America will not make it to Australia -- but the next generation model will.
Hyundai Australia has been asking for the flagship coupe ever since it went on sale in overseas markets in 2009.
But so far the sporty V6 has been built in left-hand drive only.
It is too late in the current model's (pictured) lifecycle to do a conversion to right-hand drive for Australia and other countries, but Hyundai now recognises the car games importance as an image leader.
Speaking at a roundtable conference at Hyundai headquarters in Seoul yesterday, company president and CEO Steve S Yang told Australian journalists: "The right-hand drive coupe will be available for Australia and other RHD countries," referring to the next generation model due in 2015.
However after Hyundai earlier initially hinted that the award-winning Genesis sedan would come to Australia, Mr Yang said: "At the moment we don't have any plans for the RHD Genesis sedan.
"We are trying our best to meet customers' needs all over the world but we have to think about profitability.
"We know there is a market for RHD sedan for Australia, and maybe Singapore, Hong Kong, South Africa, how many of the RHD do you think we can sell? Maybe we can sell 1000 to 2000 to Australia."
In the meantime, Hyundai will rely on the cute three-door Veloster as its image leader.
The Accent-based hatch with futuristic looks is due in Australian showrooms later this year, likely priced between $20,000 and $30,000.
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at the carsales mobile site
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