Tuesday, November 15, 2011

Ford F-150 SVT Raptor

The Ford F-150 SVT Raptor is the first-ever high-speed off-road performance truck offered by any manufacturer and highlights 33 years of Ford truck sales leadership by emphasizing F-150's Built Ford Tough durability, innovation and engineering. Developed with the DNA of an off-road pre-runner, comprehensive modifications focused on chassis and suspension enhancements.

The Ford F-150 SVT Raptor is 7 inches wider than a base F-150 to make room for the additional suspension components that give Raptor its unparalleled off-road abilities. The wider stance also gives the truck an aggressive appearance. Internal triple-bypass shocks by FOX Racing Shox - the first on a production truck - provide position-sensitive damping and extra suspension travel for extreme off-roading and a smooth ride on the road.

Raptor also has unique cast-aluminum front control arms and SVT-tuned 35-inch BFGoodrich® All-Terrain TA/KO 315/70-17 tires. These components give Raptor 11.2 inches of front suspension travel and 12.1 inches of rear suspension travel on either SuperCab or the new SuperCrew.

The new available 145-inch-wheelbase SuperCrew offering with a 5.5-foot box adds to the extensive list of Ford F-150 SVT Raptor features. While contributing additional space and flexibility for the customer, the SuperCrew delivers performance as well.

Applying lessons learned from the Ford F-150 SVT Raptor SuperCab, engineers were able to tune the truck to handle off-road events with ease. The 12-inch-longer wheelbase on SuperCrew also delivers the benefit of a more comfortable ride, especially in rough off-road situations.

"We spent a lot of time getting the ride and suspension characteristics of the SuperCrew similar to that of the SuperCab, and we were successful in getting the same character and flavor out of the SuperCrew," said Jamal Hameedi, SVT chief nameplate engineer. "While the SuperCab and SuperCrew both have different strengths, each is worthy of the Raptor nameplate."

A larger 36-gallon fuel tank and increased towing capability - rated at 8,000 pounds - keep Ford F-150 SVT Raptor SuperCrew a mainstay in the desert environment, with capabilities as a chase or tow truck.

New standard technology features for 2011 include:
  •     Perimeter alarm
  •     Integrated spotter mirror
  •     Express up/down driver and passenger front windows
  •     110 V power inverter in the center console
  •     Head restraint for second-row middle seat
  •     Telescoping steering wheel



Sunday, November 13, 2011

Audi A5 Cabriolet

The Audi A5 Cabriolet is emotionally evocative. The four-seater with the fabric top combines a distinctly sporty character with the fascination of open-top driving, refined comfort and a great everyday utility. Five efficient engines, an agile suspension and a wide range of high-end options make the new Audi the most attractive convertible in the mid-sized segment.

Delivery will begin in the second quarter of 2009. Prices start at 37,300 euros for the entry-level 1.8 TFSI model with 118 kW (160 hp), which will follow somewhat later.

Crowning the new model series is the Audi S5 Cabriolet. The letter "S" traditionally stands for supreme sportiness - for dynamics, performance and power, but also for amazing efficiency. Powering the S5 Cabriolet is a newly developed, supercharged three-liter V6 that pumps out 245 kW (333 hp) for superior performance.

Like all Audi convertibles, the open-top Audi A5 also has a lightweight fabric top that endows it with a silhouette of dynamic elegance. The fully automatic top opens in just 15 seconds. Audi also offers an optional acoustic top with an intermediate layer of insulating foam that reduces wind noise almost to the sedan level.

When opened, the Audi A5 Cabriolet top folds down so effectively that very little trunk space is used up - leaving 320 liters (11.30 cubic ft) of unused storage volume, clearly the best value in its field of competitors. The soft top compartment lowers automatically when the top is opened. Equally useful is the fold-down rear seat backrest and the large pass-through between the luggage compartment and the interior, which increases the storage volume to a generous 750 liters (26.49 cubic ft).

Rounding out the comfortable character of the four-seater's interior are automatic seatbelt extenders for the front seats and the optionally available head-level heating. A special coating on the optional leather seats reduces solar heating. The Audi A5 Cabriolet seats four comfortably. The refined ambience combines with perfect ergonomics to convey an atmosphere of sporty elegance. Ultra-high-strength steels and selective reinforcements of the body ensure high rigidity and crash safety.

The Audi A5 Cabriolet is being launched with three gasoline engines and two diesel engines ranging between 132 kW (180 hp) and 195 kW (265 hp). All five power plants are fueled via direct fuel injection; four of them use turbocharging. Available powertrains include a six-speed manual, the continuously variable multitronic and the new, lightning-fast seven-speed S tronic. In addition to front-wheel drive, Audi also offers quattro permanent all-wheel drive for the higher-power engines. The innovative sport differential, which variably distributes power between the rear wheels, is optionally available for even greater dynamics and driving pleasure.






Friday, November 11, 2011

Ford F-150 Harley-Davidson

The 2011 Ford F-150 Harley-Davidson™ combines two rich traditions into an extraordinary package for customers who crave capability and long for the open road. With authentic styling, a new standard 6.2-liter V8 engine and plenty of technology upgrades, it's the most powerful and capable Ford F-150 Harley-Davidson yet.

The successful collaboration between these two icons of the open road has produced nine F-150 models, as well as six Super Duty F-250 and F-350 models, and in 2009, the first Harley-Davidson F-450 edition truck. The exterior of the 2011 Ford F-150 Harley-Davidson™ offers a bold front fascia and six-bar-shaped billet-style satin chrome grille and boasts "Harley-Davidson" satin chrome badging. The truck also has a lowered appearance because of a standard, fully integrated deployable running board.

Also standard are 22-inch Euroflange forged wheels with a polished center wheel cap and low-profile performance tires. The paint selection is classic Harley-Davidson - Tuxedo Black and Ingot Silver.

Ford tapped into a bit of its proud racing heritage to create the new 6.2-liter V8 gasoline engine, which uses big-bore architecture to produce impressive horsepower and torque. The new gasoline engine delivers 411 horsepower and 434 lb.-ft. of torque and provides improved maximum trailer towing capacity of 9,300 pounds.

"This engine has tons of torque and already has been proven in the field with both the F-150 SVT Raptor and Super Duty," said Mike Harrison, V8 engine program manager. "The exhaust for the Ford Harley-Davidson edition has been specially tuned to feature a throaty V8 rumble customers will love."




Benefits of the new 6.2-liter V8 gasoline engine include:
  • SOHC valvetrain with roller-rocker shafts: The single overhead camshaft (SOHC) per cylinder head design results in a stiff valvetrain that allows optimized camshaft lift profiles and results in great low-speed torque. The roller-rocker shafts allow valve angles to be splayed, resulting in optimized intake and exhaust port layout for better breathing.
  • Dual-equal variable cam timing: Intake and exhaust valve opening and closing events are phased at the same time to optimize fuel economy and performance throughout the engine speed range and throttle positions.
  • Two spark plugs per cylinder: Due to the large bore size, two spark plugs per cylinder are used to more efficiently burn the fuel-air mixture in the combustion chamber, enabling better fuel economy and increased engine torque. The twin plugs also help the engine maintain a smooth, stable idle.
  • Dual knock sensors: A knock sensor on each bank of cylinders of the V8 engine allows the spark timing of each cylinder to be individually optimized real-time, throughout the engine speed range. The engine learns the optimum timing via an adaptive algorithm.

Taking convenience to the next level

The 2011 Ford F-150 Harley-Davidson™ adds plenty of technology options to give customers what they are looking for. Key to helping customers take advantage of all the capability offered by the F-150 Harley-Davidson is a standard 4.2-inch LCD (liquid crystal display) productivity screen.

This screen offers menu options, giving the customer important information related to fuel economy and towing performance. The menu is navigated through a five-way button on the steering wheel and is positioned between the tachometer and speedometer.

Additionally, the 2011 Ford F-150 Harley-Davidson comes equipped with a standard voice-activated Navigation System that integrates several functions including voice-recognition destination entry, climate control and SIRIUS® Satellite Radio into one easy-to-use system, displaying them on an 8-inch touch screen.

For the customer who wants more control of transmission gear selection, SelectShift Automatic™ transmission functionality is available. A toggle switch located on the console shift lever engages the mode, where the transmission doesn't second-guess the driver, giving him or her total control over gear selection and performance feel.

Other standard features on the 2011 Ford F-150 Harley-Davidson™ include:
  • Power moonroof
  • Rear view camera
  • Second-row heated seats
  • Ambient lighting
  • Remote Start System

Customized Harley-Davidson appeal

The 2011 Ford F-150 Harley-Davidson interior is customized to appeal to the truck buyer who appreciates the attention to detail for which both Ford and Harley-Davidson are renowned.

Examples are the seats and console lid, which feature handmade cloisonné badges that are produced by the same company that makes badges for Harley-Davidson® motorcycles; the console has a limited-edition serialization plate, which is numbered individually.

"We take creation of the Ford Harley-Davidson trucks very seriously, but it's also something we have a lot of fun with along the way," said Design Manager Brad Richards. "We hope that comes through in each of the finished trucks.

Wednesday, November 9, 2011

Audi A6

In model year 2008, Audi offers significant changes for the A6 model line. In all of its forms, the latest generation of the Audi A6 combines superior driving dynamics and sophisticated technology with exceptional comfort and equipment.

For 2008, the Audi A6 models will receive the S line exterior treatment as standard equipment. This package includes a distinctive front grille with S line badge, S line front and rear bumpers and 18-inch five-arm quattro GmbH wheels with 245/40 R18 all-season tires. Audi A6 quattro models can be equipped with an optional twin seven-spoke 19-inch alloy wheels with summer performance tires. There also is a new optional chrome finish 18-inch alloy wheel with summer performance tires.

Another key addition to the A6 and S6 in 2008 is an optional Audi lane assist feature. A camera located in front of the mirror housing monitors the vehicle's path and alerts drivers if they wander from their lane unintentionally. This is done with a slight vibration in the steering wheel, similar to driving over rumble strips commonly found on freeway shoulders.

Powerful engines with up to 10 cylinders and 435 horsepower, advanced transmission technologies, and a choice between quattro permanent all-wheel drive or FrontTrak front wheel drive make Audi's current A6 and Audi S6 offerings unique in the segment. Such levels of technology have helped the Audi A6 line achieve the highest worldwide sales in its class.




Monday, November 7, 2011

BMW 1-Series M Coupe MotoGP Safety Car

At the curtain raiser on 19th March 2011, the BMW 1-Series M Coupe will for the first time be deployed as the official Safety Car for the MotoGP events - in advance of its market launch late in April. The BMW Safety Car is a one-off built by BMW M GmbH specifically for this race series. Only the 250 kW/340 hp straight-six M TwinPower Turbo engine and the entire drivetrain were taken over unchanged from the production model.

In the interests of weight optimisation, the BMW Safety Car comes with a carbon fibre-reinforced bonnet featuring additional large air vents, as well as polycarbonate side and rear windows. A special lightweight titanium race exhaust system not only saves weight but also delivers a captivating sound for the benefit of the spectators. Complementing the discreet spoiler lip on the boot lid there is now an adjustable rear wing to provide the requisite downforce. On the Safety Car the aerodynamically honed front apron with its precisely defined air ducting, including Air Curtains, features an additional splitter integrated on the underside of the apron.





The interior of the BMW Safety Car is a model of uncompromising purism. A rollover cage bolted behind the B-pillar, the absence of rear seats, two racing bucket seats with 6-point safety belts, an M steering wheel in alcantara and a fire extinguisher are all standard in the Safety Car.

The suspension technology of the BMW 1-Series M Coupe was specially adapted for the Safety Car. Its high-performance suspension system boasts an adjustable race track set-up that includes a sports-tuned chassis in which the dampers are independently adjustable for bump and rebound. The BMW Safety Car runs on 19-inch mixed tyres measuring 255/35 at the front and 285/30 at the rear. Vehicle height is variably selectable and the camber of the front and rear axle can be altered to suit the circuit topography. The braking system of the BMW 1-Series M Coupe, already designed for extremely high demands, is replaced in the Safety Car with a six-piston fixed-calliper racing brake system.

The deployment of the brand-new BMW 1-Series M Coupe Safety Car marks the continuation of BMW M GmbH's successful partnership - begun in 1999 - with Dorna Sports, the organisers of the MotoGP World Championship. With a fleet of eight vehicles, BMW is supporting the safe running of the motorcycle world championship in the current race season. As well as the official BMW 1-Series M Coupe Safety Car, this year sees two further reserve Safety Cars from BMW M GmbH present at the track: a BMW X6 M and a BMW M3. In addition, the organising team has been given a BMW X5 M for the Safety Officer and a BMW ActiveHybrid X6 for the stewards. On call this season as a Medical Car is a BMW 535i Touring. There will also be two Safety Bikes contributing to the safe running of race weekends: a BMW S 1000 RR and a BMW HP2 Sport. The ceremonial handover of the vehicles took place at BMW M in Garching-Hochbrück on 28th February 2011. It was on this occasion that Dr Kay Segler, Director of BMW M GmbH, and Carmelo Ezpeleta, CEO Dorna Sports, made an advance announcement that the successful partnership would be extended until 2016, before sealing the agreement in a signing ceremony.

Saturday, November 5, 2011

Lamborghini Gallardo Nera

The "Gallardo Nera", which is based on the Gallardo Coupé Model Year 07. This special edition model, limited to 185 units, is an impressive showcase for the extensive individualisation options offered by Lamborghini's personalisation service 'ad personam', which transforms each and every Lamborghini into a unique vehicle.

'ad personam' provides a wealth of options for enhancing the interior and body of the vehicle according to specific personal tastes. Other individualisation requirements can also be met, such as special colour paintwork. This allows the customer to create a unique sports car that reflects his personality and satisfies his own style down to the smallest detail.

The Lamborghini Gallardo Nera, which is available in Europe in the basic colour "Nero Serapis", while for USA in "Nero Noctis", features special paintwork in matt black on the side mirrors, rear spoiler, rear body panels, roof, selected front panels and on the door sills and rear apron. Additional details such as matt black rims in the "Callisto" design with the Lamborghini logo, brake callipers in silver, white side indicator lenses and darkened tail lights complement the martial look of the exterior.

The interior is styled in the colours "Nero Perseus" and "Bianco Polar" using the "bicolour sportive" equipment variant. A further "Branding Package" and the 'ad personam' equipment package provide additional distinctive touches. The additional leather package variant in "Bianco Polar" includes leather trims for the climate control operating panel, handbrake and gear lever console in addition to the inner door handles. The seats boast rhomboidal stitching in the "Q-citura" pattern, which can also be found on the Alcantara roof lining, door trims and the partition wall between the seats and the engine compartment. Instrument rings and decorative stitching on the steering wheel, plus white piping on the seats and mats, round off the modifications in the interior.



The Lamborghini Gallardo Nera includes, as standard, a navigation system, rear-view camera, on-board computer, alarm system, lifting system and a made-to-measure vehicle cover. Optional equipment for the model includes the e gear automatic transmission, an engine hood with transparent glass panels, a Bluetooth-compatible radio and carbon ceramic brakes.

Like the Lamborghini Gallardo Coupé MY07, the Lamborghini Gallardo Nera boasts the established V10-cylinder engine with a displacement of 4,961 cc and an output of 382 kW (520 hp). It sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in 4 seconds (0 to 62 mph in 4 seconds), and reaches a top speed of 315 km/h (196 mph). The drive train of the mid-engine sports car includes permanent all-wheel drive, based on Lamborghini's proven VT (viscous traction) system.

Thursday, November 3, 2011

BMW X1

With its agile, versatile and modern character, the BMW X1 guarantees a new driving experience in the premium compact segment. It expands and enhances the range of BMW X models by yet another innovative vehicle concept.

Through its body design the BMW X1 demonstrates self-confident elegance, a versatile and sporting character, as well as spontaneous agility. For the first time the features and characteristics of a BMW X model are carried over in modern style into a unique vehicle in the premium compact segment.

The interior of the BMW X1 is characterised by clear function and trendsetting, modern style. The driver orientation so typical of BMW is additionally accentuated by the forward-pushing lines within the cockpit area. Sophisticated materials and natural colours accentuate the youthful and dynamic flair of the vehicle.

The elevated seating position, a generous feeling of space, the wide range of storage options and the variable interior offer ideal conditions for enjoying the BMW X1 both in an urban environment and beyond, with agility, spontaneity and versatility of the highest calibre. Three full-sized seats at the rear offer generous space and freedom of movement. The rear-seat backrest is adjustable for angle and folds down in a 40/20/20 split. Luggage compartment capacity may be increased from 420 litres/14.7 cu ft to a maximum of 1,350 litres/47.3 cu ft. An electrically operated Panorama glass roof is available as an option.

Modern drivetrain technology gives the BMW X1 superior performance and supreme efficiency all in one. Depending on the model variant, the driver benefits from powerful, economical and low-emission gasoline and diesel engines, BMW's intelligent xDrive all-wheel-drive technology, as well as a wide range of BMW EfficientDynamics features including Brake Energy Regeneration, Auto Start Stop, and a gearshift point indicator. The BMW X1 sDrive18d with rear-wheel drive and average fuel consumption to the EU standard of 5.2 litres/100 kilometres (equal to 54.3 mpg imp) and a CO2 rating of 136 grams/ kilometre offers the highest standard of efficiency all round.





Technical Specifications

BMW X1 xDrive28i
  • Straight-six gasoline engine with composite magnesium/aluminium crankcase, VALVETRONIC and dual-VANOS
  • Capacity: 2,996 cc
  • Max output: 190 kW/258 hp at 6,600 rpm
  • Max torque: 310 Nm/228 lb-ft from 2,600-3,000 rpm
  • Acceleration 0-100 km/h: 6.8 s
  • Top speed: 205 km/h (127 mph) (230 km/h or 143 mph with optional high-speed set-up)
  • Average fuel consumption: 9.4 l / 100 km (equal to 30.0 mpg imp)
  • CO2 emissions: 219 g/km
  • Emission standard: EU5

BMW X1 xDrive23d
  • Four-cylinder diesel engine with all-aluminium crankcase, BMW TwinPower Turbo and common rail direct fuel injection
  • Capacity: 1,995 cc
  • Max output: 150 kW/204 hp at 4,400 rpm
  • Max torque: 400 Nm/295 lb-ft from 2,000-2,250 rpm
  • Acceleration 0-100 km/h: 7.3 s
  • Top speed: 205 km/h (127 mph) (223 km/h or 138 mph with optional high-speed set-up)
  • Average fuel consumption: 6.3 l / 100 km (equal to 44.8 mpg imp)
  • CO2 emissions: 167 g/km
  • Emission standard: EU5

BMW X1 xDrive20d
  • Four-cylinder diesel engine with all-aluminium crankcase, turbocharger with variable intake geometry and common-rail direct fuel injection
  • Capacity: 1,995 cc
  • Max output: 130 kW/177 hp at 4,000 rpm
  • Max torque: 350 Nm/258 lb-ft from 1,750-3,000 rpm
  • Acceleration 0-100 km/h: 8.4 s
  • Top speed: 205 km/h (127 mph) (213 km/h or 132 mph with optional high-speed set-up)
  • Average fuel consumption: 5.8 l / 100 km (equal to 51.4 mpg imp)
  • CO2 emissions: 153 g/km
  • Emission standard: EU5

BMW X1 sDrive20d
  • Four-cylinder diesel engine with all-aluminium crankcase, turbocharger with variable intake geometry and common-rail direct fuel injection
  • Capacity: 1,995 cc
  • Max output: 130 kW/177 hp at 4,000 rpm
  • Max torque: 350 Nm/258 lb-ft from 1,750-3,000 rpm
  • Acceleration 0-100 km/h: 8.1 s
  • Top speed: 205 km/h (127 mph) (218 km/h or 135 mph with optional high-speed set-up)
  • Average fuel consumption: 5.3 l / 100 km (equal to 53.3 mpg imp)
  • CO2 emissions: 139 g/km
  • Emission standard: EU5

BMW X1 xDrive18d
  • Four-cylinder diesel engine with all-aluminium crankcase, turbocharger with variable intake geometry and common-rail direct fuel injection
  • Capacity: 1,995 cc
  • Max output: 105 kW/143 hp at 4,000 rpm
  • Max torque: 320 Nm/236 lb-ft from 1,750-3,000 rpm
  • Acceleration 0-100 km/h: 10.1 s
  • Top speed: 195 km/h (121 mph)
  • Average fuel consumption: 5.7 l / 100 km (equal to 49.6 mpg imp)
  • CO2 emissions: 150 g/km
  • Emission standard: EU5
BMW X1 sDrive18d
  • Four-cylinder diesel engine with all-aluminium crankcase, turbocharger with variable intake geometry and common-rail direct fuel injection
  • Capacity: 1,995 cc
  • Max output: 105 kW/143 hp at 4,000 rpm
  • Max torque: 320 Nm/236 lb-ft from 1,750-3,000 rpm
  • Acceleration 0-100 km/h: 9.6 s
  • Top speed: 200 km/h (124 mph)
  • Average fuel consumption: 5.2 l / 100 km (equal to 54.3 mpg imp)
  • CO2 emissions: 136 g/km
  • Emission standard: EU5