Tuesday, March 20, 2007

A real turn-on from Toyota: Yaris SR

The Toyota Yaris is many things, but exciting is not usually a word used to describe it. Until now.

Toyota Yaris SRToyota Yaris SR 2The Japanese firm reckons it has invigorated the Yaris with some serious stimulation in the form of a 131bhp 1.8-litre engine to create the SR.

This sporty flagship for the Yaris range does 0-62mph in 9.3 seconds and costs from £12,995. Included in the SR package are 17in alloy wheels, distinctive body add-ons, and vehicle stability and tractions controls.

The SR trim can also be ordered for the lesser 1.3 petrol and 1.4 diesel models, which now seem quite dull by comparison.

© Source: article on topgear
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2007 Bugatti Veyron

(from Bugatti Press Release) Over 60 Bugatti Veyron 16.4 delivered worldwide

2007 Bugatti Veyron2007 Bugatti Veyron 22007 Bugatti Veyron 32007 Bugatti Veyron 4Geneva 6th March 2007 _ by the end of February Bugatti Automobiles S.A.S. will have delivered 60 Bugatti Veyron 16.4 to date. As a result, the planned production volume has been exceeded.

After the start of production of the Bugatti Veyron in Alsatian Molsheim at the end of 2005 and the delivery of the first vehicle in March 2006, Bugatti Automobiles S.A.S. has reached the planned 50 units for the fi rst production year. This is interesting to note, because the Bugatti Veyron 16.4 is a completely new model and thus has not been able to rely on already existing components.

In December 2003, the responsibility for Bugatti Automobiles S.A.S. went to Dr. Thomas Bscher, the new president of the company. Dr. Wolfgang Schreiber was appointed as technical director and manager of Bugatti Engineering. The entire Bugatti project was then completely reassessed and a new schedule for the completion date of the super sports car was decided. The objectives established in this process have all been achieved since then.

Production of the Bugatti Veyron has been limited to a maximum of 300 units. The number of units for the fi rst production year has amounted to – as announced – 50 vehicles. Today, Bugatti is already able to increase the annual production volume and thus is able to reduce the customer waiting time.

Promising order entry

“In 2007 we are planning to increase the production of the Bugatti Veyron”, said Dr. Thomas Bscher at the International Geneva Motor Show, “because the order entry for the Veyron is getting close to a 140 and we wouldn’t want our customers to have to wait longer for their Bugatti.”

“It is not unexpected”, continued Dr Bscher, “that most of the orders come from the US; traditionally the most important market for luxury vehicles. 30% of the 140 contracts received up to now with a down payment of EUR 300,000, which is the condition for the production of the vehicle to start, come from the United States. This means that that is where – on a country basis – up to now most of the Bugatti Veyron have been delivered.

In Europe, the majority of the demand comes from England and Germany, which are the two most important markets for luxury cars outside the US. Naturally, the Bugatti Veyron super sports car has also created interest in the Middle Eastern countries and deliveries to Arab countries underline the pleasant sales trend of this unique vehicle.

A worldwide network of contract partners

Bugatti Automobiles S.A.S. highly values supporting the vehicles sold with a worldwide organisation of Bugatti bases. Within a year, a network of Bugatti sales and service partners has been developed – now covering 26 locations. Consistent with the sales figures, the USA is also top in this area with nine contact points. Five on the west coast, one in Florida and the traditional areas in the east with three partners sharing the responsibility. Also in Europe, the important luxury car markets such as Germany, England, France, Monaco, Benelux, Austria, Italy, Spain and Switzerland are already covered.

It goes without saying that the uniqueness of the Bugatti Veyron 16.4 has also not gone unnoticed in the so-called new markets. Thus, increasing demand can be seen in China and Russia. As Bugatti has set itself the goal of delivering only to areas where the company is also represented by competent contact partners, these enquiries will be treated with a certain level of caution until the development of the sales and service organisation.

Old and new in Geneva

Today, the Bugatti Veyron 16.4 already has its place in car history as an undisputed classic. It embodies every-thing that is technologically and technically possible in automobile construction on a level which is absolutely unreached and will remain so for some time.

But also the Veyron models itself on the heritage and the value of the brand. « Art – form – technique » the legacy of the company founder is as significant today as in 1931 when the Type 55 was created and one of these Type 55 models is shown at this year‘s International Geneva Motor Show on the Bugatti stand. Thus, the link between the “thoroughbred” of the 30s and the “pur sang” of the 21st century will be highlighted in an impressive way.

The Type 55 Roadster

In 1931, the Type 55 replaced the Type 43 super sport tour car with a Grand Prix motor. The Type 55 Bugatti now used the 2.3 litre Grand Prix motor with a compressor from the Type 51 and the very stiff chassis of the Type 47 designed for a 16 cylinder motor. Thus it brought together different ingredients to make one of the best Bugatti vehicles. The brakes and tyres of the Type 55 were identical to those of the Type 51. The draft of the lovely two-seater roadster body offered by the factory stemmed from Jean Bugatti. Apart from the roadster also the so-called “Faux Cabriolet” was offered by the factory, a coupй whose design also came from Jean. In total 38 chassis of the Type 55 were manufactured between 1931 and 1935, 13 of them had the famous roadster body shown here.

The acceleration of the Type 55 was amazing. From 0 to 100km/h in under 10 seconds. Whilst steering and road holding around bends convinced, many drivers wished for a gearbox like the Grand Prix one instead of the sluggish Type 49 gear box. In 1933, a test journalist wrote the following about the Type 55 in “Autocar”: “One doesn’t expect an engine of this type to run noiselessly. Whilst the exhaust noise of the car is noticeable but tolerable, there are a lot of mechanical noises that are caused by the gear box and the closely toothed wheels of the camshaft drive system. At high speed these individual noises turn into a wild, impressive howl. Road holding and handling are so excellent that one can zip around bends with the car. As it doesn’t swerve one feels completely safe. For a car of this type the suspension can be called comfortable…. Some experience has to be used on the gear box, the first and second gear slightly “hang” at high engine speed otherwise they can be changed quickly”.

More than any other Bugatti, the elegant Type 55 is a wolf in sheep‘s clothing.

An international car

The new Veyron is an impressive platform of top end automotive technology and – loyal to Bugatti’s heritage « nothing is too expensive, nothing is too beautiful » – only the best parts and materials in the trade are used in the production process. And the Veyron is a truly international car. One of the key- and most sophisticated parts, the 7 speed-sequential-DSG-double-clutch-gearbox, is made by motor sport specialists Ricardo in the UK, the unique 16 cylinder-8.0-litre-engine comes from the Volkswagen engine plant in Salzgitter in Germany.

The tyres – the first production tyres in the industry homologated for speeds above 400 km/h – are a joint development with Michelin. The carbon fibre mono coque is built by ATR in Italy, the front- and rear-structure in forged aluminium by Heggemann in Germany and the bespoke carbon-ceramic brakes by AP Racing in Great Britain. The paintwork is German, the leather Austrian, the windscreen is manufactured in Finland, and so it goes on.

50 years down the road, a car make once again

Today, nearly 50 years later to the day, the production of Bugatti automobiles in Molsheim is resuming, making Molsheim once again the hub of the Bugatti world. As a centre for reminiscence, this picturesque, small city near Strasbourg has never lost its signifi cance.

The area’s ‘Enthusiasts Bugatti Alsace’, together with their friends in the various Bugatti clubs throughout the entire world, are in large measure responsible for keeping the brand alive over the decades – even in the absence of the product itself. This is an experience, which various other prestigious automobile brands with melodious names have not shared.

It is in this fact that the strength of the Bugatti brand values is expressed most clearly. The admiration for ‘art on wheels’, the cool achievement of the aesthetic tenacity of Ettore Bugatti, who was a man who was fi rst and foremost an artist, not a technician. The grandeur of the victories in the glorious years of dirt-encrusted heroes on the racecourses of this world and, not least, the suitability of these racing cars for everyday driving – the latter is what made Bugatti cars accessible to a broader clientele. The prestige of inspired design and the exclusiveness of individual models that helped catapult certain Bugatti models into the astronomical price classes.
In 1956, the final attempts had failed, in the wake of the death of the company’s founder in 1947 – preceded in death in 1939 by his son Jean, with whom he collaborated – to keep the substantially weakened company alive. After 47 years’ production, in the course of which 7,950 Bugatti’s of models 13 through 251 had been manufactured, the gates to the Bugatti factory in Molsheim were forced to close.

© Source: article on seriouswheels.com
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Zap Releases Sketch of Attractive New 644-HP Electric Crossover SUV

SANTA ROSA, Calif. — Take that, Chevy Volt and Tesla roadster. The wild and crazy guys at Zap, the California electric-car maker, issued a sketch on Monday of their idea of the perfect flagship electric vehicle — one that is engineered by Lotus.

New 644-HP Electric Crossover SUV Compared to the toylike, quirky Zap Xebra, the sketch of the Zap-X looks like a most unusual combination of sporty and serious. It is being developed on the Lotus Aluminum Performance Crossover platform, or APX.

The electric-car maker describes the sketch as highlighting "the styling, performance and technology that Zap plans to incorporate into the Zap-X." The crossover will be equipped with in-hub electric motors that deliver 644 horsepower and a top speed of 155 mph, as well as all-wheel drive. Zap said by combining a lightweight aluminum chassis, a new efficient drive system and advanced battery management, the "goal" for the Zap-X is to be able to have a 350-mile range with a 10-minute recharging time.

"We believe that the Zap-X will become the most advanced, most practical and most appealing flagship electric vehicle to date and will revolutionize the industry, providing the driver with the enjoyment of a sports car and the practicality of an SUV," said Zap CEO Steve Schneider.

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Power hungry: Callaway C16

Callaway is to Corvette what AMG is to Mercedes: both reside at the very fast end of the spectrum.

For its latest Corvette project, Callaway has chosen the New York International Auto Show in April to take the wraps off its C16 convertible.

Callaway C16Not happy with the Z06 'Vette's 505bhp, Callaway has upped this to 560bhp to realise 0-60mph in 3.5 seconds and nudge top speed over the 200mph mark.

Still not satisfied with this? Then why not order the performance pack that further increases power to 616bhp.

Each Callaway C16 gets a gentle restyle to distinguish it from a standard Corvette, so look out for the different rear lights, upgraded interior trim and numbered plaque.

The Callaway conversion costs around £40,000 on top of the price of a Corvette base car and the performance pack adds a further £6,000 or so, which seems like good value to us.

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Saturn Announces Pricing on Aura Green Line Hybrid

DETROIT — Clearly spoiling for a fight with Japanese midsize hybrid sedans, Saturn announced on Monday that its new 2007 Aura Green Line Hybrid will carry a starting price of $22,695, including a $650 destination charge. That baseline price significantly undercuts the Honda Accord Hybrid and the Toyota Camry Hybrid. The Aura Green Line Hybrid is on sale now.

Saturn Aura Green Line HybridSaturn Aura Green Line Hybrid 2The base 2007 Camry Hybrid starts at $26,820, including a $620 destination charge, while the base 2007 Accord Hybrid starts at $31,685, including a $595 destination charge.

The EPA rates the Aura Green Line at 28 mpg in city driving and 35 mpg on the highway. It is equipped with an electric motor linked to a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine. The powertrain combination produces 164 horsepower and 159 pound-feet of torque.

The EPA rates the Accord Hybrid at an identical 28 mpg in city driving and 35 mpg on the highway. The hybrid powertrain in the Accord Hybrid includes a 3.0-liter V6 and produces 253 hp and 232 lb-ft of torque. The Camry Hybrid gets 40 mpg in city driving and 38 mpg on the highway, the EPA says. Its hybrid powertrain includes a 2.4-liter four-cylinder and produces 147 hp and 192 lb-ft of torque.

The Kansas City-built Aura won top honors at the 2007 North American Car of the Year competition.

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The wild Rover

We can only applaud Rob Gauntlett and James Hopper for their attempt to travel from the North Pole to the South Pole, relying solely on their own bodies for power.

roverWe have to applaud because any serious attempt at physical exertion, such as these two 19-year olds are undertaking, would result in the nearest Accident and Emergency ward being overwhelmed with wheezy TG staff.

Still, at least Rob and James won't have to carry everything themselves. Thanks to the Land Rover Defender in full G4 Challenge trim - complete with winch, extra under body protection and deep water breathing kit for the engine - they have at least got somewhere to store their variety of globe-trotting equipment and the kitchen sink.

The lads start their 180 Degree Pole to Pole Challenge today as they ski, cycle and sail their way from the top of the Earth to the bottom, covering a total of 22,000 miles in the process.

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Honda Will Build 2009 Civic at New Indiana Plant

GREENSBURG, Ind. — Honda broke ground on its $550 million assembly plant here on Monday and confirmed that it will build 2009-model Civics when it goes into operation in the fall of 2008.

2009 Civic2009 Civic 2Honda currently makes Civics at plants in East Liberty, Ohio, and Alliston, Ontario. It is increasing Civic output now by adding production at its second Alliston plant.

Honda said the Indiana plant will help it to boost total North American auto production capacity from 1.4 million units to more than 1.6 million units in 2008, employment in North America to more than 37,000 workers and capital investment in North America to more than $9 billion.

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"International" Hummer H3

MANCHESTER, U.K. — It's a watershed moment for one of the most iconic American brands. General Motors on Monday took the wraps off a prototype right-hand-drive Hummer H3, which signals the Detroit brand's commitment to making serious inroads into foreign markets.

Hummer H3Hummer H3 2The automaker said the right-hand-drive H3 will be built in South Africa and will be rolled out to right-hand-drive markets including South Africa, Australia and Japan starting this summer. Pricing for the right-hand-drive H3 will be announced later, GM said.

"We are determined to build on the brand's unique recognition in Europe and especially here in the U.K.," said GM Vice Chairman Bob Lutz at the opening of a new Hummer showroom here.

Hummer reported that its sales grew nearly 34 percent globally in 2006 with 82,000 vehicles delivered, compared with 61,000 in 2005.

The H3 is powered by a 3.7-liter inline-5 that makes 242 horsepower and 242 pound-feet of torque. It is linked to either a four-speed automatic transmission or a five-speed manual transmission.

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2007 Volkswagen New Beetle Convertible Triple White Special Edition:More photos

(from Volkswagen Press Release) SPECIAL EDITION NEW BEETLE CONVERTIBLE NOW AVAILABLE AT LOCAL DEALERS

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. Volkswagen of America, Inc. announced today that the limited edition Triple White New Beetle convertible is now available at dealers. Only 3,000 customers will have the opportunity to own this truly special edition.

2007 Volkswagen New Beetle Convertible Triple White Special Edition2007 Volkswagen New Beetle Convertible Triple White Special Edition 22007 Volkswagen New Beetle Convertible Triple White Special Edition 32007 Volkswagen New Beetle Convertible Triple White Special Edition 42007 Volkswagen New Beetle Convertible Triple White Special Edition 52007 Volkswagen New Beetle Convertible Triple White Special Edition 6The Triple White New Beetle convertible features a unique Campanella white exterior, a white interior, and white convertible roof boot. The Triple White New Beetle convertible takes its color palette from the original Super Beetle convertible of the late 70s. This modern day rendition includes 17-inch Oktopus alloy wheels, a three-spoke leather wrapped steering wheel, white leatherette seats and center armrest. Also included are black carpeting, floor mats and door panels along with Sirius Satellite Radio. Another distinctive feature of the Triple White New Beetle convertible is the special front seat headrests ingrained with the New Beetle convertible icon.

With the standard automatic transmission, the Triple White New Beetle convertible is priced at $25,990.

Founded in 1955, Volkswagen of America, Inc. is headquartered in Auburn Hills, Michigan. It is a subsidiary of Volkswagen AG, headquartered in Wolfsburg, Germany. Volkswagen is one of the worlds largest producers of passenger cars and Europes largest automaker. Volkswagen sells the Rabbit, New Beetle, New Beetle convertible, GTI, Jetta, GLI, Passat, Passat wagon, Eos, and Touareg through approximately 600 independent U.S. dealers. Visit Volkswagen of America online at vw.com

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Opel Reveals Details on Performance-Oriented Corsa OPC

RUSSELSHEIM, Germany — The latest member of Opel's OPC lineup is the new Corsa OPC, a valiant little performer that is equipped with a 192-horsepower turbocharged engine and Recaro seats. Opel brass said they will begin to roll out the new Corsa model throughout Europe this month and noted that "Growth markets like Russia will also play a role." There are no plans to bring the compact three-door to the U.S., however.

Opel Corsa OPCOpel Corsa OPC 2Opel Corsa OPC 3The Corsa OPC goes from zero to 62 mph in 7.2 seconds and has a top speed of 140 mph. Maximum torque is pegged at 170 pound-feet, and the four-cylinder engine is linked to a standard six-speed transmission.

Exterior design cues include a roof spoiler, front and rear aprons with gills, and a triangular tailpipe. Cabin touches include a flat-bottomed leather sport steering wheel, aluminum pedals and piano black trim. The sport seats are a new joint development by Opel and Recaro. The Corsa OPC also gets 17-inch alloy wheels and variable-progressive steering. The chassis has been lowered by 0.6 inch compared with that of the base Corsa.

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Monday, March 19, 2007

2007 Artega GT: one more review

(from Artega Press Release) The Artega® GT. Germany’s alternative to the sports car establishment.

2007 Artega GT2007 Artega GT 22007 Artega GT 3The new car brand Artega® is set to unveil a close-to-production prototype of its debut model.
Artega®’s aim is the development and production of small-series sports cars that break the mould. Artega® was the brainchild of engineers in the development department at paragon, the globally successful electronics supplier based in Delbruck, in the German state of North Rhine Westphalia.
The company’s mission statement commits it to providing a convincing and sustained demonstration
of both all-round automotive expertise and a passion for sporty cars.

Artega® and the Artega® GT represent a new beginning, with no brief to bring a historical brand back to life and no nostalgia agenda. The challenging, international setting of the Geneva Motor Show makes this a fitting venue for the first public unveiling of both brand and car.

The new Artega® GT combines the emotional appeal of a high-performance sports car with the
defining attributes of a sports tourer. The development of the car hinged on four priorities:

• A distinctive design language. Renowned designer Henrik Fisker has created proportions with
an unprecedented purity: broad, flat and compact. Given its restricted dimensions, an interior
brimming with efficiency comes as something of a surprise. There is room inside the car not just
for two adults, but also their luggage – and even a child seat can be integrated as an option.

• Agility, driving dynamics and safety. The key parameters in the development of the Artega® GT were lightweight construction and rigidity. A generously sized aluminium space frame teams up with a body made from carbon fibre-reinforced composite materials to ensure an impressive
power-to-weight ratio. High-quality components sourced from the Volkswagen Group and a
rear-engined arrangement make for top-class performance.The V6 powerplant with a direct-shift gearbox and a specially developed inverting stage was built into a compact module made from high-strength steel tubing. Active driving dynamics aids are an integral element of the GT, while exceptionally effective crash boxes protect the occupants in the event of an accident.

• Touring suitability. The development engineers attached great importance to creating an occupant- oriented package. A wide variety of stowage areas and two luggage compartments exceed the usual boundaries for a car with these dimensions. The key to this extraordinary spaciousness was the decision to mount the engine horizontally in the rear of the car.

• Controls. The expertise of the electronics specialists at paragon opened the door to a wide range of innovative control and driver information systems.With its groundbreaking new sensor switch panels and the unique dual-indicator speedometer/rev counter instrument, paragon’s all-new interior ambience represents a significant standout feature of the new Artega® GT.

By the end of 2007 a state-of-the-art production facility will be constructed in Delbrьck for the
Artega® GT and other potential models.The new location will bring together component manufacturing, final assembly and a brand and sales centre, allowing the brand to meet the broadest possible range of customer specifications.

The new Artega® GT is no show car. It documents the nascent brand’s intention to lay down a range of models which are designed for the long term and can secure it a place alongside the major manufacturers. The target group for these small-volume cars is a select band of enthusiasts who value ideas which step outside the norm and are therefore unlikely to be satisfied by large-series models.

Artega® aims to enrich the sports car world rather than providing extra competition.

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BMW Confirms X6 Name for New Crossover

MUNICH, Germany — Twelve months after BMW confirmed it was planning to introduce a coupe-inspired SUV to complement the hugely successful X5, the upcoming model has an official name: X6.

bmw x6In announcing the news to journalists at BMW's press conference in Munich this week, Chairman Norbert Reithofer also provided a major boost to BMW's burgeoning North American operations by confirming the X6 will be assembled alongside the mechanically identical X5 at the company's plant in Spartanburg, South Carolina.

The X6 production volume will be relatively small compared to the X5, say insiders, with initial estimates put at between 20,000 and 30,000 units annually.

Scheduled to make an appearance as a lightly veiled concept car next January at the North American International Auto Show, the X6 will ultimately go on sale across North America toward the end of 2008. Based on the second-generation X5's four-wheel-drive underpinnings, the new car is planned to receive its own unique four-door body, with a heavily sloping roof serving to differentiate it visually from its more upright sibling.

Engines are set to include carryover versions of BMW's inline six-cylinder and V8 gasoline units, with the likelihood of the German carmaker's excellent new twin-turbocharged inline six-cylinder diesel appearing as well.

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Hyundai Adds an Under-$25,000 Model to Azera Lineup

FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif. — In a bid to retain its image as one of the value leaders in the industry, Hyundai on Thursday rolled out a new bottom-of-the-line model for its Azera lineup. The Azera GLS carries a $24,895 sticker price, including a $660 destination charge, and features a 234-horsepower 3.3-liter DOHC V6. The Azera SE and Limited models are equipped with the 263-hp 3.8-liter DOHC V6.

Hyundai AzeraThe GLS is outfitted with a five-speed automatic transmission, like the SE and Limited models. It also gets standard electronic stability control with traction control, eight airbags, a six-speaker AM/FM/XM/CD audio system and power front seats. A power sunroof adds another $950 to the bottom line.

The Korean automaker has also boosted the price of the midrange Azera SE model by $800. The SE now comes with standard 17-inch wheels. The new price is $26,195, including a $660 shipping charge. The price of the top-of-the-line Azera Limited is unchanged at $27,995, including shipping.

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Lamborghini Diablo-Based Alar 777

BUENOS AIRES, Argentina — Jorge Antonio Fernandez Garcia is in the news again. The Argentinean sports-car lover who received special permission from Lamborghini in the 1990s to use the famous brand name will introduce a new model, the Alar 777, at a local show at the end of this month.

Lamborghini Diablo-Based Alar 777Garcia, who also uses the name Joan Ferci, introduced a highly modified Diablo in the late 1990s. Called the Coatl, it looked, er, special. Then came the Eros, and then silence.

For years Garcia/Ferci and Lamborghini Latinoamerica kept a low profile, but it seems they were still active.

Autoblog Argentina reports that the company will introduce its new Alar 777 at a Buenos Aires tuning show. It is yet again a modified Diablo, with outrageous styling and a V12 Lamborghini engine, tuned to 700 horsepower. Top speed is claimed to be 224 mph.

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Friday, March 16, 2007

Mini John Cooper Works R56

The new JCW kit will add 17 ps to power output of the Cooper S engine, for a total of 192 ps- Torque will go up 10 Nm, to 250 Nm, available from 1,750 to 5,000 rpm. The overboost function will make 270 Nm available for a short period, on demand, in the range from 1,750 to 4,500 rpm.

Mini John Cooper Works R56Mini John Cooper Works R56 2Mini John Cooper Works R56 3Mini John Cooper Works R56 4Mini John Cooper Works R56 5 Performance date have not yet been announced, but we know that the price of the kit, which can be installed on any R56 Cooper S, will be 1,689 € in Germany. Obviously, there'll be a whole range of optional accessories, from the sport chassis to sport seats, to alloy rims, aero-kit and perforated brake discs. Full details below the fold, where you can find the official press release and other images.

Get the Racing Feeling: John the Cooper Works Tuning kit for the new MINI Cooper S.

From mid-2007, what is already the most powerful version of the compact premium model will be given an additional power boost under its bonnet. With the John Cooper Works Tuning Kit for the MINI Cooper S, the output of the 1.6 litre twin scroll turbo engine is increased to an impressive 141 kW/192 bhp, with maximum torque up to 250 Newton metres in the engine speed range between 1,750 and 5,000 rpm. With the overboost function, the torque level can even be increased temporarily to 270 Nm for powerful acceleration in the engine speed range from 1,750 to 4,500 rpm.

And the MINI brand has even more John Cooper Works components on offer for fans of the new MINI Cooper S - enough to quicken the pulse and put motor racing passion into everyday driving. These include a sports chassis, perforated brake discs for the front axle of the MINI Cooper S and 18-inch light alloy wheels. These options can be ideally combined with numerous other features from the John Cooper Works accessory range which equally enhance the car’s sporting spirit: with the aerodynamics packages in body colour, the John Cooper Works sports seats, the John Cooper Works sports steering wheel and selected equipment components made of carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic. Not only is the dynamic potential of the new MINI Cooper S increased but also its charismatic sporty appeal.

Racing expertise for more fun in everyday driving.

The John Cooper Works Tuning Kit for the MINI Cooper S includes components whose development is derived directly from expertise gained from motor racing. This most powerful version of the new MINI thus carries on a tradition which dates back to the legendary racing success of MINI and John Cooper Works in the sixties. The John Cooper Works Tuning Kit for the MINI Cooper S consists of a sports exhaust system, a sports air filter and an electronic engine management system optimised for greater power efficiency. The resulting package fires the MINI Cooper S to new performance peaks and even greater driving fun.

Perfect look for a sports vehicle.

And the sporty look of the new MINI Cooper S can be further refined with the appropriate ingredients from the John Cooper Works collection. The sports suspension not only ensures even more agile handling but also lowers the suspension by 10 millimetres. In keeping with this, John Cooper Works provides an aerodynamic body kit in body colour - consisting of a front and rear apron and side sills - as well as several versions of 18-inch light allow wheels. The “Double Spoke” design has a particularly agile look and is new for 2007. The largest wheel authorised for the new MINI (dimensions 7J x 18) has low-section tyres sized 205/40/18 with runflat properties.

The perforated brake discs are also borrowed from classic racing technology. And finally, numerous equipment components in carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic give the MINI a new visual kick. The high-tech Formula 1 material is used for John Cooper Works trim panels for the front air inlet, exterior mirrors and tailgate handle - not made exclusively for the MINI Cooper S but also available for other model variations of the new MINI generation.

The new MINI: individuality is the key focus.

A John Cooper Works roof spoiler with carbon spoiler is also available for the new MINI. John Cooper Works leaves its mark in the interior of this racy little car, too: the John Cooper sports seat (ED: not available for the US market) provides an attractive appearance and optimised lateral holding for dynamic travel. And if you want to be absolutely sure of having a good grip on the new MINI at all times, you will opt for the John Cooper Works sports steering wheel. It is optionally available with a cover in leather or Alcantara - a stylish touch of individual flair!

Alternatively, the Original MINI accessory range offers a single-section roof spoiler which can be finished in body colour. Even greater individuality is provided by additional headlamps, illuminated entry sills with free choice of lettering and a wide range of roof decor variations. In addition to the popular motives “Union Jack” and “Chequered Flag” - which are also available for the mirror covers and door handle trim elements - the roof of the MINI can also be decorated with the MINI lettering or even the markings for a helicopter landing spot (”Heliport” motif).

The Original MINI accessory programme also offers MINI fans the opportunity to increase the comfort and functionality of their vehicle. The MINI interface for integration of Apple iPod models means you have just the music selection you want as you drive. MINI-specific roof and rear carrier systems enable the safe transport of bicycles, skis, snowboards or roof boxes. The especially useful options also include high-quality textile floor mats, a rear protective cover, a luggage compartment tub and folding sun blinds. No matter whether sporty or practical: thanks to the extraordinary variety of the individualisation options available, every MINI is one thing above all else: unique.

© Source: article on eurocarblog.com
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2007 Honda Racing F1 RA107

(from Honda Press Release) Honda Racing F1 Team launches pioneering environmental concept
The Honda Racing F1 Team today announced a major new initiative for the 2007 Formula 1 season. To help raise awareness of the environmental issues facing the planet, the RA107 F1 car will simply feature a huge image of earth, in place of the advertising and sponsor logos which have featured and dominated all other F1 cars for decades.

The car’s new look is a powerful call to action for fans, sponsors, customers and members of the public to join Honda’s commitment to help address the environmental issues facing the world.

2007 Honda Racing F1 RA1072007 Honda Racing F1 RA107 22007 Honda Racing F1 RA107 32007 Honda Racing F1 RA107 42007 Honda Racing F1 RA107 52007 Honda Racing F1 RA107 6Via the website www.myearthdream.com, anyone who wishes, will have the opportunity to have their name on the car, make a pledge to make a lifestyle change to improve the environment and make a donation to an environmental charity. Under the concept of “our car is your car”, each name will form a tiny individual pixel which will help build the image of planet earth on the car. Each name will be visible on the website when you make the pledge or under a microscope on the car.

Universal Music, the largest music company in the world, and Gatorade are the first global brands to partner the team in this exciting new concept. Existing partners have enthusiastically embraced the idea and all remain involved with the team for the 07 season. In addition, the team is delighted to announce that Fila, IBM, Instron, Oliver Sweeney, Perkin Elmer, Showa Denko, TUV and GF Agie Charmilles have joined the roster of team partners and suppliers.

The Honda Racing F1 Team will work closely with global environmental charities to develop Honda’s existing environmental ethos within the world’s most high profile motor-sport.

Nick Fry, Chief Executive Officer, Honda Racing F1 Team

“Climate change is probably the single biggest issue facing our planet and F1 is not immune from it. On the contrary we believe that F1 with its huge global profile and cutting edge technology can play an important role in not only highlighting the issues but also playing our part in developing solutions. In addition, the FIA recognises the opportunity for F1 to play an important role in developing technologies for the benefit of society long term. For example, by 2009, devices for energy recovery will be in place on the cars.

“So we at Honda F1 are proud to dedicate our car to the environmental challenge. We believe that solutions can stem directly from engineers working on our F1 program and are working harder than ever to achieve our dreams and win the World Championship while embracing and underscoring Honda’s environmental ethos.”

“First and foremost, we are a race team and F1 is very much a team sport. We achieve our racing objectives only by working together and parallels can be drawn with the way that we must all join together to address the environmental challenge. We hope that in raising awareness and highlighting the issues we will encourage members of the public to come together and help take on the challenge of climate change”.

Yasuhiro Wada, Chairman, Honda Racing F1 Team and General Manager, Honda Motor Company

Honda has a huge desire to challenge for this year’s 2007 F1 World Championship. We hope this year will be a successful and exciting season. Equally we intend to give something back in the form of our new environmental F1 concept, which we believe will bring something fresh and new to motor sport.”

“Honda constantly strives to be innovative in both its technology and its thinking and to sincerely respond to the demands of customers and society. Honda has always made great efforts to contribute to the preservation of the environment in its corporate activity. We hope this new initiative for Honda in F1 will help to further stimulate awareness and interest across the world for these important environmental issues.”

Honda and the Environment

The Honda Corporation has a rich heritage of pioneering environmental activity. Examples include:

1972 Honda launched CVCC (Compound Vortex Controlled Combustion), the world’s first auto engine to meet the USA Statutory Clean Air Act, a licence sold to most other auto makers to produce lower emissions

1976 Honda started a forestation programme by planting over 250,000 trees around its factories

1999 Honda launched its first hybrid car. The Insight was the first production hybrid car to be available in both the USA and Europe.

2006 Honda is the first automaker in the world to announce global CO2 reduction goals for its products and production activities.

2007 Honda Civic GX is recognised by the Environmental Protection Agency as the cleanest internal combustion vehicle on earth.

Team Ownership

The Honda Racing F1 Team is wholly owned by the Honda Motor Co. The RA107 is the product of a 10 month development programme that has drawn upon Honda’s engineering excellence in its facilities in both the UK and Japan. The Honda Racing F1 Team aims to build on the successful latter part of the 2006 season and is fully committed to realising its World Championship ambitions.

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Ultimate Aero Going After Bugatti EB Veyron 16.4's Speed Record

WEST RICHLAND, Wash. — Little-known U.S. supercar maker SSC is aiming to put its name in lights with a crack at the top speed record for road-legal production cars. The title is currently held by the Bugatti EB Veyron 16.4 at an independently verified 253 mph.

ultimate aero sideareo jetThe company behind the Ultimate Aero is planning to close down a 12-mile stretch of Nevada's Highway 93 on March 21 for the first run at the Veyron's record. SSC's weapon of choice is a specially prepared version of the Ultimate Aero prepared by MKM Racing. It is powered by a twin-turbocharged 6.3-liter V8 that can reportedly put out a staggering 1,183 horsepower along with 1,094 pound-feet of torque.

The low-slung two-seater has already been tested at NASA's wind tunnel in Langley, Virginia, where it is claimed to have shown the potential for a top speed of 273 mph. However, it remains to be seen whether it can achieve that figure on the road. Existing performance claims for the Ultimate Aero put its 0-60-mph time at 2.78 seconds and 0-100-mph time at just 11.66 seconds. Its standing-quarter-mile time is put at 9.90 seconds with a terminal speed of 144 mph.

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2007 Geneva Auto Show Wrap: beON Concept Aims To Fix "Unappealing" Image of Hybrids

GENEVA — The class assignment was intriguing: Start with the premise that hybrid vehicles have a "somewhat unappealing image" and come up with a vehicle that is more "emotional" than intellectual. The result is the beON hybrid, which made its debut at this month's Geneva auto show.

beon hybridbeon hybrid 2The beON is the brainchild of students at the Istituto Europeo di Design (IED) of Turin, Italy. They were directed by Luca Borgogno, a Pininfarina designer, and Carsten Astheimer, head of design at the Brunswick Boat Group. The beON is a two-seat off-road sports car with a sunroof. It is powered by a hybrid thermal-electric engine connected to a hydraulic transmission system located within each wheel hub. Its creators say this futuristic setup guarantees "excellent off-road performance" and also means traditional disc and caliper braking can be eliminated.

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Massa quickest in Melbourne practice

Felipe Massa continued his impressive winter form - and outpacing of team-mate Kimi Räikkonen - by setting the fastest time in second practice for the Australian Grand Prix.

ferrari felipe massajenson button hondaBut it's bad new for Button. The Brit was down in 14th, slower than both the Super Aguris. Oh dear.

Kimi's second-place time was four-tenths slower than Massa's 1:27.353 and rookie Lewis Hamilton will be chuffed with third position - just a tenth off Raikkonen and two-tenths quicker than double world champ team-mate Alonso.

The BMWs are looking fast, and both the Williams-Toyotas were quicker than the 'works' Toyotas.

Mucho head scratching will be going on for both the Honda and Toyota teams if they continue to be outpaced by the Super Aguris and the Williams.

Qualifying will be fascinating...

Nick Trott

Friday second practice times: Pos Driver Nat Team Time
1 Felipe Massa Bra Ferrari 1:27.353
2 Kimi Räikkonen Fin Ferrari 1:27.750
3 Lewis Hamilton Bri McLaren-Mercedes 1:27.829
4 Giancarlo Fisichella Ita Renault 1:27.941
5 Nick Heidfeld Ger BMW-Sauber 1:27.970
6 Alexander Wurz Aut Williams-Toyota 1:27.981
7 Fernando Alonso Esp McLaren-Mercedes 1:28.040
8 Nico Rosberg Ger Williams-Toyota 1:28.055
9 Robert Kubica Pol BMW-Sauber 1:28.281
10 David Coulthard Bri Red Bull-Renault 1:28.495
11 Anthony Davidson Bri Super Aguri-Honda 1:28.727
12 Jarno Trulli Ita Toyota 1:28.921
13 Takuma Sato Jpn Super Aguri-Honda 1:29.009
14 Jenson Button Bri Honda 1:29.066
15 Rubens Barrichello Bra Honda 1:29.542
16 Ralf Schumacher Ger Toyota 1:29.574
17 Mark Webber Aut Red Bull-Renault 1:29.801
18 Heikki Kovalainen Fin Renault 1:30.09
19 Scott Speed USA Toro Rosso-Ferrari 1:30.383
20 Christijan Albers Nld Spyker-Ferrari 1:31.108
21 Adrian Sutil Ger Spyker-Ferrari 1:31.175
22 Vitantonio Liuzzi Ita Toro Rosso-Ferrari 1:31

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Nissan Introduces "Extreme" Off-Road Test Track

TOKYO — Nissan said on Thursday that its new "extreme" off-road test track here will help the automaker develop new four-wheel-drive models and new off-road technologies.

Nissan Nissan The fifth of Nissan's test tracks includes a rocky section that mimics the extreme conditions found on mountain terrain, a desert road and a 30-degree-incline slope. Nissan said it will test such four-wheel-drive vehicles as the Safari and the X-Trail at the site. The Motegi test facility bolsters the work done at Nissan's Arizona test track, as well as three other test tracks located at Tochigi, Oppama and Rikubetsu on its home turf.

The Motegi site covers 5.7 acres and is said to be among the largest in Japan.

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Production Version of the Aston Martin Rapide

GAYDON, England — As the dust settles on the sale of Aston Martin to a consortium headed by British motor racing entrepreneur David Richards, now comes confirmation that the company has restarted development on a four-door sedan based on the Rapide. The svelte Rapide concept car was first revealed at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit in 2006.

Aston Martin RapideOriginally planned to join the British carmaker's lineup by 2010, the opulent four-seater's development was halted last August, when previous owner Ford confirmed it was opening tenders for the sale of Aston Martin as part of a companywide restructuring aimed at cutting debt.

But, in a move suggesting its new owners see solid sales potential in a high-priced four-door model, the company's chief executive, Ulrich Bez, has revealed that the Rapide has once again been placed on Aston Martin's future model schedule.

Bez says the Rapide will add a further 1,000-2,000 cars to Aston Martin's targeted annual total of 7,000.

The Aston Martin factory at Gaydon, England, will be altered to cope with the production of the new car, with expansions planned for the body and paint shops as well as changes to the assembly and trim lines.

No date has been given for the new car's introduction, although Bez has hinted it could still be launched by 2010.

The Rapide will be the second new model to be produced by Aston Martin under its new owners, following the DBS, due out later this year. Featured in the movie Casino Royale, the new coupe steps into the Aston Martin lineup as a replacement for the 6-year-old Vanquish.

Former rally driver Richards was successful in his bid for Aston Martin in a consortium that also includes John Sinders, an American banker, and the Kuwaiti-based investment groups Investment Dar and Adeem Investment. They paid $925 million for the 86-year-old carmaker, of which Ford retains a $77 million stake.

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