Showing posts with label Lifestyle. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Lifestyle. Show all posts

Jeep Trail Edition Campers from Mopar


Jeep is introducing a new lineup of off-road utility and camping trailers to pair up with their ruggedly handsome lineup of Rubicon Wranglers.

Styled after the Wrangler Rubicon, the Trail Edition camper features 17-inch cast-aluminum wheels, taillights, fender flares, Jeep badging, and hood-tie downs. It also boasts lightweight tubular-aluminum construction, 32-inch BF Goodrich Mud Terrain tires, a torsion-bar / trailing-arm suspension, diamond-plated rocker guards, and 12 inches (305 mm) of ground clearance.

The trailers sleep four, with a queen size bed, and a couch a table that convert to twin-sized beds.  It includes a kitchen cabinet, 110 volts of power and what the catalog calls a “premium canvas enclosure,” which sure beats a regular canvas enclosure, because it’s premium.

The second one is the Jeep Extreme Trail Edition Camper for Extreme Off-roaders, a model priced at $11,995. It gets a heavy-duty frame, more ground clearance (15 inches), a full-underbody skid plate, and 35" BF Goodrich Mud Terrain tires. It will be available in Bright Silver Metallic, Black, Flame Red, Mango Tango Pearl, and Natural Green Metallic.


Jeep Trail Edition camper Jeep Trail Edition camper Jeep Trail Edition camper Jeep Trail Edition camper


Press Release

Jeep® and Mopar® Are First in Industry to Offer Off-road Camper Trailers

Go Anywhere, Sleep Anywhere in Jeep® Camper Trailers from Mopar®

  • Campers accommodate four adults and feature a queen-size bed, sofa with stowable table, built-in aluminum cabinet, 110-volt power supply and a premium canvas enclosure
  • Camper trailers feature innovative engineering, capability and are designed and tested for Jeep off-road capability
  • For casual campers, the Jeep Trail Edition camper is designed to endure trails with its lightweight all-aluminum construction, 32-inch BF Goodrich Mud Terrain tires, 12 inches of ground clearance, trailing-arm suspension, diamond-plated aluminum covering, and available 360-degree axis pintle hitch
  • For hard-core off-road enthusiasts, the Jeep Extreme Trail Edition camper ups the ante with a heavier frame, 35-inch BF Goodrich Mud Terrain tires, 15 inches of ground clearance, full-underbody skid plate, high-mounted fenders, and available 360-degree axis pintle hitch
  • The all-new Jeep Trail Edition camper (MSRP: $9,995) and Extreme Trail Edition camper (MSRP: $11,995) may be ordered as Mopar accessories at local Jeep dealerships

July 20, 2010 , Auburn Hills, Mich.
Jeep® and Mopar® are setting up camp for off-road enthusiasts. They will be the first in the industry to offer customers off-road camper trailers.

"The Jeep brand is widely known for providing its customers with a sense of freedom and adventure, with a mix of vehicles to take them wherever they want to go," said Mike Manley, President and Chief Executive Officer - Jeep Brand, Chrysler Group LLC. "Thanks to our friends at Mopar, the Jeep experience may now be taken to a new level. Families may hook up an off-road Jeep camper to their capable Jeep vehicle and enjoy an ultimate outdoor adventure that no other manufacturer can offer."

Designed to meet off-road capabilities of Jeep 4x4 vehicles, Jeep Trail and Extreme Trail campers incorporate Jeep Wrangler's rugged design cues, including Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 17-inch cast-aluminum wheels (with 5-lug by 5-inch bolt pattern to utilize most Jeep vehicles' spare tire), taillights, fender flares, rear bumper (Trail Edition camper only), badging and hood-tie downs. In August, both Jeep camper trailers may be ordered at local Jeep dealers through Mopar®, Chrysler Group LLC's service, parts and customer-care brand.

"At Mopar, we are always looking for opportunities to support and add value to our Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and Ram Truck brands, and this is a great example of how we can do that," said Pietro Gorlier, President and Chief Executive Officer - Mopar Service, Parts and Customer Care. "Our trailers are specifically designed and engineered to meet strict capability requirements of Jeep. Mopar will continue to offer features that enhance the customer's experience with our brands and our vehicles."

Jeep Trail Edition Camper for Casual Campers
The all-new Jeep Trail Edition camper is designed for the Jeep enthusiast looking to hit the trails with the family.

Unlike conventional recreational campers, the Jeep Trail Edition camper features an extensive use of lightweight tubular-aluminum construction (no wood or fiberboard materials) in order to mitigate the additional load on the Jeep tow vehicle and make operation a breeze.

The Jeep Trail Edition camper features Jeep Wrangler Rubicon's 32-inch BF Goodrich Mud Terrain tires, which provide excellent traction and 12 inches of ground clearance. Underneath, a unique torsion-bar and trailing-arm suspension provide confident maneuvering and on-trail articulation. For protection, heavy-duty diamond-plated aluminum is strategically used to handle abuse from the elements.

Unfold the rugged diamond-plated aluminum top (capable of supporting 450 lbs of gear), and the Jeep Trail Edition camper reveals spacious living quarters with 76 inches of headroom and space to sleep up to four people. A comfortable multi-use sofa folds out into a bed, while a queen-sized bed provides maximum comfort for two adults. A built-in cabinet provides space for camping gear, while all-aluminum construction delivers a clean look and contributes to the camper's lightweight design.

A stowable center table offers occupants a place for dining or a surface for board games, while a 110-volt power inverter provides additional cooking, heating, cooling and entertainment options. Enclosing the home-away-from-home are premium window screens and privacy shades.

Available accessories include Mopar's black aluminum Jeep Wrangler taillight guards (P/N: 82209330, MSRP: $143) for even more legendary Jeep styling. In addition, an available 10-foot by 10-foot exterior awning with screen enclosure (P/N: LLROOM06, MSRP: $650) expands the Jeep Trail Edition camper's covered space for additional all-weather enjoyment. Improving the standard 2-inch trailer-hitch ball is an available heavy-duty pintle hitch with a 360-degree rotating axis for maximum off-road maneuvering and on-trail articulation (P/N: LLHOOK02, MSRP: $735).

The all-new Jeep Trail Edition camper will be available as a Mopar accessory in August at local Jeep dealerships with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $9,995 (which includes destination).

Following are part-number details for Jeep Trail Edition camper accessory models:

  • Jeep Trail Edition camper in Bright Silver Metallic and Black (P/N: LLBASE01)
  • Jeep Trail Edition camper in Flame Red (P/N: LLBASE02)
  • Jeep Trail Edition camper in Mango Tango Pearl (P/N: LLBASE03)
  • Jeep Trail Edition camper in Natural Green Metallic (P/N: LLBASE04)

Following are dimensions for Jeep Trail Edition camper:

  • Weight: 850 lbs.
  • Height: 49.5 inches
  • Width: 88 inches
  • Ground clearance: 12 inches

Jeep Extreme Trail Edition Camper for Extreme Off-roaders
The all-new Jeep Extreme Trail Edition camper is designed to handle maximum off-road capability that hard-core off-road enthusiasts crave, with additional trail equipment to go anywhere and do anything.

Starting with the Jeep Trail Edition camper's off-road engineered suspension, the Jeep Extreme Trail Edition camper ups the ante with a heavy-duty frame, more ground clearance (15 inches) and a full-underbody skid plate. Larger 35-inch BF Goodrich Mud Terrain tires provide a beefier trail-ready aesthetic and sit below black diamond-plated aluminum fenders. These unique design fenders are mounted higher on the Jeep Extreme Trail Edition camper to accommodate up to 37-inch tires for maximum off-road capability. Improving the standard 2-inch trailer-hitch ball is an available heavy-duty pintle hitch with a 360-degree rotating axis for maximum off-road maneuvering and on-trail articulation (P/N: LLHOOK02, MSRP: $735).

The all-new Jeep Extreme Trail Edition camper will be available as a Mopar accessory in August at local Jeep dealerships with a MSRP of $11,995 (which includes destination).

Following are part-number details for Jeep Extreme Trail Edition camper accessory models:

  • Jeep Extreme Trail Edition camper in Bright Silver Metallic and Black (P/N: LLPREM01)
  • Jeep Extreme Trail Edition camper in Flame Red (P/N: LLPREM02)
  • Jeep Extreme Trail Edition camper in Mango Tango Pearl (P/N: LLPREM03)
  • Jeep Extreme Trail Edition camper in Natural Green Metallic (P/N: LLPREM04)

Following are dimensions for Jeep Extreme Trail edition camper:

  • Weight: 1,050 lbs.
  • Height: 52 inches
  • Width: 88 inches
  • Ground clearance: 15 inches

Mopar-First Features

In addition to being the first automotive manufacturer to offer customers off-road camper trailers, Mopar has introduced numerous other industry-first features including:

  • Vehicle-information apps: first to introduce the industry's first smartphone vehicle-information application, a new channel of communication with consumers
  • lectronic owner manuals: first to introduce traditional owner manuals in a DVD and brief user-guide format
  • FLO TV: first to offer live, mobile television
  • WiFi: first to offer customers the ability to make their vehicle a wireless hot spot
  • WiTECH: first to support vehicle diagnosis and software updates leveraging off-the-shelf personal computers and a dedicated wireless tool network

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2010 Citroen DS3 Yves Saint Laurent

[Citroen+DS3+Yves+Saint+Laurent+01.jpg]

The special-edition DS3 was created for a retrospective event honoring the fashion label and its departed founder, and was used to shuttle celebrities and VIPs around Paris.

Similar to the standard model of the DS, this special edition Citroen hatchback comes with a new red exterior color that’s combined with the black roof with that unmistakable Yves Saint Laurent logo.

The DS3 is a special vehicle for Citroen, as it marks the introduction of the DS range to the market. The new line-up will be formed by luxury incarnations of some of the carmaker’s existing models. The DS3, based on the C3, has already been launched and it will be followed by the DS4 and DS5.


Citroen DS3 Yves Saint Laurent Citroen DS3 Yves Saint Laurent Citroen DS3 Yves Saint Laurent

Source: Citroen


Press Release

CITROËN DS3 DRESSED IN YVES SAINT LAURENT

An essential fashion accessory, the Citroën DS3 slipped into its finest outfit to welcome guests to the opening of the Yves Saint Laurent retrospective.

By linking the first model in the DS line to the designer who revolutionised the way women dress, Citroën is reasserting its Créative Technologie universe. A high-fashion version of the DS3, decked out in the colours of the Yves Saint Laurent retrospective, transported fashion and film stars to the show at the Petit Palais in Paris on Wednesday 10 March.

Organised by the Pierre Bergé-Yves Saint Laurent Foundation, the exhibition includes more than 300 pieces. Presented in their historical and cultural context, they create a panoramic vision of the illustrious fashion designer's body of work, from his Dior debut in 1958 to retirement in 2002. The public also gets its first look at the entire series of legendary photographs of Yves Saint Laurent taken by Jean-Loup Sieff in 1971.

The Citroën DS3, a sensual and muscular compact hatch, is thus taking its first steps in the fashion world, blending its unique atmosphere of luxury and distinction with the elegance and anti-conformist aesthetic of Yves Saint Laurent.

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Ferrari World Abu Dhabi F430 GT Roller Coaster [ Video]

Ferrari-GT-Roller-Coaster


An exclusive image of the Ferrari World Abu Dhabi GT rollercoaster, one of two unique roller coasters featured at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi. The GT rollercoaster is a racing coaster, which will send two competing rollercoaster carriages sprinting along twisting parallel tracks on a race to the finish line. Each coaster car is a replica of a Ferrari F430 Spider. This is one of twenty rides and attractions featured at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi designed to bring to life the Ferrari story and to celebrate the passion, excellence, performance and technical innovation that Ferrari has established over the years and represents today.





Ferrari World is still under construction on the Yas Island in Abu Dhabi.  The first theme park named for the automaker is being built on over 135 acres of land in the emirate.  It is scheduled to open in the latter half of 2010.

via:carscoop

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Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Inspires New Cigarette Racing Boat



Two legendary performance brands - Mercedes AMG and Cigarette Racing - unveiled a custom Cigarette Racing boat and the SLS AMG, which inspired its design, at a special preview at the Miami International Boat Show on Thursday, February 11. Both the Cigarette Boat and SLS AMG are on display at the boat show until Monday, February 15, 2010.

While each brand's playground is as different as asphalt and water, both AMG and Cigarette use their racing expertise to develop high performance machines for passionate enthusiasts.

Available this May, the 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG was developed exclusively by Mercedes-AMG, the high performance and motorsports division of Mercedes-Benz. Featuring a lightweight aluminum spaceframe chassis, hand built 563-hp AMG V8 engine and signature "Gullwing" doors, the SLS AMG is sure to quicken the pulse of high-performance enthusiasts.

Founded upon mutual respect and product admiration, Mercedes-AMG and Cigarette Racing have developed a long-standing professional relationship, allowing Mercedes-AMG to provide manufacturing expertise and materials to enhance one of Cigarette Racing's top models, the 46' Rider.

The new Cigarette 46' Rider features hand-applied AMG ALUBEAM silver paintwork also available on the SLS AMG. This process, used exclusively by AMG, covers body surfaces like a metallic skin, targeting light reflections to further emphasize exterior character lines and design details. Showcasing the state of the art nanotechnology, this unique finish imbeds tiny pigments of color measuring just 30 to 50 nanometres. The ALUBEAM silver is contrasted with AMG Designo Mystic White metallic in a bold design echoing the Mercedes-AMG logo. Inside, the boat features marine-grade upholstery that resembles the two-tone AMG Designo porcelain and white Nappa leather offered on the SLS AMG.

While many of the influences of the SLS AMG can be seen in the exterior paint work and interior, the true benefits of the inspiration can be found below the surface. With more than 100 innovations on display, the all new 46' Rider serves as a technology showcase for Cigarette.

From the propulsion system to the rigging, a clean sheet approach was utilized to build the all new 46' Cigarette.

Powerd by a pair of revolutionary twin-turbocharged 552 ci, 1350 HP Mercury Racing engines, the 46' Cigarette is estimated to have a top speed in excess of 130 MPH.

More details on the Cigarette Racing "Inspired by AMG" 46' Rider can be found online at www.cigaretteracing.com/legendary

About Cigarette Racing

Since 1969, Cigarette Racing Team has left an everlasting mark on the worldwide luxury powerboating industry. Its logo and iconic shapes are recognized throughout the world as the definition of custom high performance powerboating. The brand is renowned for its custom approach to building high performance luxury powerboats in which every customer's personal touch can be seen. Cigarette's long history and dedication to quality are on display all around the world being driven by presidents and enthusiasts alike. From 38' to 50' Cigarette Racing defines the industry of High Performance powerboating. More information can be found on Cigarette Racing at www.cigaretteracing.com.

About Mercedes-Benz USA

Mercedes-Benz USA, headquartered in Montvale, New Jersey, is responsible for the sales, marketing and customer service for all Mercedes-Benz and Maybach products in the United States. For more than 40 years, MBUSA has taken pride in its commitment to the customer by providing superior quality luxury vehicles coupled with outstanding customer support. More information on MBUSA and its products can be found at www.mbusa.com and www.maybachusa.com.
Source: Mercedes

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Video: Lamborghini Ad Personam Programme Promo Revealed


Lamborghini has released a new video to support their "Ad Personam" program. The plan, which translates from Latin as "To the person," offers customers the opportunity to select from a variety of exclusive options.

Lamborghini Ad Personam Program

The options include an extensive variety of choice in exterior color, leather tone, and stitching hue. As the video points out, one thing that will not be changed is Sant'Agata, Bolognese, where each hand built Lamborghini is still assembled.

Lamborghini Ad Personam Program

Lamborghini makes Ad Personam available, for a fee, to those customers who need an extra level of exclusivity. Launched at NAIAS in 2008, the only limiting factor to the options is the customer's available cash.

Lamborghini Ad Personam Program

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Prince of Wales' Aston Martin DB6 Volante Pistons Melted into Cufflinks for Charity

Aston Martin DB6 cufflinks from the Prince of Wales - 1280


PRINCE'S ASTON TO RAISE VITAL FUNDS FOR TRUST

  • Exclusive cufflinks created from original aluminium engine pistons
  • All profits from sale to benefit youth charity, The Prince's Trust

His Royal Highness, The Prince of Wales' prized Aston Martin DB6 Volante is now helping raise funds for The Prince's Trust, thanks to a collaboration with specialist sculptor of provenance metals, TMB ArtMetal.

TMB has created 200 pairs of cufflinks, in two designs, formed from the car's original aluminium engine pistons, which are now available to buy, with all profits going to youth charity, The Prince's Trust.

Martina Milburn, chief executive of The Prince's Trust, said: "With these proceeds, we will be able to help more young people into jobs across the UK. Young people have been hit hardest in the recession, so it's now more important than ever to give them the skills and confidence they need to find work."

Aston Martin DB6 cufflinks from the Prince of Wales - 1017

The project also strikes a chord with The Prince of Wales' dedication to the environment. The six donor pistons became available when his DB6 was first converted to run on biofuel and their subsequent transformation into exclusive accessories is an unusual example of recycling components that would otherwise have been thrown away.
Christopher Bennett managing director of TMB and originator of the idea, said: "These cufflinks are quintessential conversation pieces, with each pair directly benefiting The Prince's Trust. When I heard about the possibility of creating such future heirlooms from The Prince's Aston, the project was irresistible!"
TMB's two, limited-edition cufflink designs have both been made into 100 pairs, each pair formed from aluminium piston and finished with 18ct gold. One edition is an exact, miniature sculpture of the DB6 Volante, whilst the other replicates the car's iconic wheel ‘spinners' - the quick-release fixing that secures its wheels.
Each is presented in a high-quality presentation case, accompanied by a certificate of authenticity.
The cufflinks are only available direct from TMB ArtMetal, priced £995.00.
Contact +44 (0) 208 810 9997 or info@tmbartmetal.com.
via:world car fans

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Previewing: Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Berlin in January 2010


Nick Knight, one of the 21st Century's most influential and innovative fashion photographers, provides a spectacular example of Mercedes-Benz's commitment to fashion in his presentation of the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG. With a completely open brief, Knight has collaborated with British fashion designer Gareth Pugh and German model Julia Stegner to combine design, fashion and technology in a uniquely powerful visual campaign.

Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG - 22.01.2010

Few vehicles can claim to represent the same level of innovative, visionary technology as the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG. And few contemporary photographers embody the fascinating interplay between fashion and technology better than Nick Knight - a pioneer in state-of-the-art image creation. Working together with Gareth Pugh, the futuristic designer celebrated throughout the fashion world, the design and look is in keeping with his motto, "Fashion as Performance".

Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG - 22.01.2010

The end result is a symbiosis between two cutting edge artists - Knight and Pugh - and the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG - all with a spectacular aesthetic. The images propose a highly-modern visual language. One that is always at the outer limits of possibilities and ahead of its time - the very attributes of the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG. Head of Design, Gorden Wagener and his team have referenced the original Mercedes-Benz sports car models with a strikingly new design vocabulary. In doing so, they have reinterpreted the car as a design classic for this new decade.

Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG - 22.01.2010

Anders Sundt Jensen, Vice President Brand Communications Mercedes-Benz Cars, underscores the significance of this symbiosis of design and style: "Having a vision and breathing life into it is an essential part of the Mercedes-Benz success story. Driven by a passion for design, technology and materials and an instinct for style and the spirit of the times, innovative designers develop their creations. And innovation is just as vital in fashion as it is in car design. Forward-looking design is always a combination of exceptional ideas, a personal signature and an unmistakable style - the key characteristics of Mercedes-Benz."

Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG - 22.01.2010

The motif as creative dialogue.

In developing their visual motif, Mercedes-Benz presents an exciting new direction for its international commitment to fashion. The content remains relevant to the brand and matches the theme at the highest creative level. From this dialogue, a fresh message emerges with each campaign. And the Mercedes-Benz commitment to fashion becomes a long-term framework involving artists, designers, photographers and new media into a contemporary international platform for creativity and innovation.

Mercedes SLS AMG Campaign by Nick Knight and Gareth Pugh, model Julia Stegner

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Nurburgring _ New Ferrari store

Ferrari Nurburgring Store 3.jpg

Ferrari announced today the opening of its latest store near the famous Nurburgring race track in Germany. The opening of the Ferrari Nurburgring Store in the presence of Ferrari drivers Felipe Massa and Kimi Raikkonen who raced in the Sunday Grand Prix.

Ferrari Nurburgring Store 2.jpg

The Ferrari Nurburgring Store has 240 square meters and was developed by Studio Iosa Ghini. It offers various Prancing Horse products and has a lounge with a business section.

The new Ferrari Nurburgring Store is part of a bigger project that aims to transform the track into an all-year round leisure and business center.
via:zercustoms

Ferrari Nurburgring Store 1.jpg



Press Release

THE NEW FERRARI STORE OPENS AT THE LEGENDARY NÜRBURGRING CIRCUIT

The first Ferrari Store in Germany was officially inaugurated today at a very special location: the Nürburgring, which nestles in the gentle Eifel hills and provides the fascinating venue for the German Grand Prix. The ribbon-cutting ceremony was performed by Ferrari drivers Felipe Massa and Kimi Räikkönen, who had already been out on the track in the run-up to Sunday's Grand Prix. This is also the first Ferrari Store to open at a circuit and comes as part of an ambitious expansion plan to turn the Nürburgring complex into an all-year round leisure and business centre. With this in mind, major new structures are being added, including the shopping centre housing the Ferrari Store, an events centre, a conference centre and hotels.

The 240 square metre Nürburgring Ferrari Store is spread over a single track-level floor. Developed entirely by the Studio Iosa Ghini, its concept sees it as much as a homage to the history and spirit of Ferrari's twin souls of racing and luxury as a straightforward store. Each area has thus been carefully designed as a special, one-off space in which shoppers can truly embrace the Ferrari experience. It will offer a wide selection of products from the Prancing Horse ranges for GT car clients and enthusiasts, and Ferrari tifosi. This latest Ferrari Store will also include an elegant lounge with a business section for meetings and a relaxation area directly overlooking the track itself.

The Nürburgring Ferrari Store joins the other prestige Prancing Horse retail locations around the world, including those in Milan, Rome and Venice (Italy), London (UK), Barcelona (Spain), San Francisco and Miami (USA), Macao (China) and Abu Dhabi (UAE). It was created and will be managed by the Zender Group, which operates in the automotive sector, and has owned the official Ferrari dealership at Mülheim-Kärlich since 1981. The Ferrari Store development programme includes plans to bring the number of openings to more than 40 over the next three years in Europe, America, and the Middle and Far East.


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Hertz announces Lotus Elise, Exige rentals available in Italy

Lotus Elise rental car by Hertz

You will now get another option if you are looking for a fast rental car in Italy. Hertz has inked a deal with Lotus to provide customers the opportunity to rent a Lotus Elise or Exige.

Unfortunately, it appears the press release may have been sent out a bit too soon. The vehicle does not appear on the Hertz "Fun Collection" web page, and our search for the vehicle in one of the Rome locations turned up empty.
via:worldcarfans

Lotus Elise rental car by Hertz



Press Release

Hire your dream - Lotus cars now available for rental with Hertz Italy

Lotus Cars Limited, the sportscar subsidiary of Group Lotus plc is delighted to announce a marketing co-operation agreement with the car hire company Hertz Italiana and to supply Lotus cars for its rental business in Italy.

Now driving enthusiasts, fans of the Lotus brand and those who want to drive cars from one of the finest sportscar marques in the world will be able to hire a Lotus Elise directly from Hertz Italiana S.p.A.

Lotus Elise SC sportscars will be available to hire from key Hertz centres throughout Italy from middle of July.

Mr. Michael J. Kimberley, Chief Executive Officer of Group Lotus plc, commented, "I am delighted that Lotus Cars has entered into this agreement with Hertz, giving us the opportunity to make our stunning world class sportscars available to the rental market. The iconic and multi award winning Lotus Elise and the stunning Lotus Exige are the perfect fun rental cars for those who desire exclusive and high performance motoring."

Mr. Andrea Manni, director of the official Lotus dealer, ‘Lotus Rome' said, "For many, to drive a Lotus is to fulfill a lifelong dream and now, thanks to Lotus and Hertz Italiana S.p.A. this dream can be realised for a longer period than just a quick test drive at a Lotus dealer. We expect some drivers who hire an Elise or Exige from Hertz Italiana S.p.A to visit a Lotus dealership afterwards, as once you have experienced the exciting and adrenaline fueled capabilities of a Lotus, there is no turning back!"

Ing. Giuseppe Caminiti, Fleet Director for Hertz Italiana said: "We launched the Hertz Fun Collection last year to give our customers the possibility to drive the cars they have always dreamt of driving. The Lotus Elise SC is one of these dream cars and by including it in the Hertz's Fun Collection our customers have an opportunity to drive a real sportscar. We are honoured to be able to work with Lotus and are delighted that Lotus has created personalised versions of the Elise SC especially for Hertz."

To book a Lotus Elise car hire from Hertz, drivers are invited to contact Hertz on www.hertz.it or by calling the Hertz call center on +39-199-11-22-11.



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Michael Jackson dead - leaves behind large car collection

Michael Jackson 1988 Lincoln Town Car limousine
Michael Jackson 1988 Lincoln Town Car limousine

 Jackson owned at least four limousines, including a 1999 Rolls Royce Silver Seraph that was unusually decorated, to say the least. Our friends at Jalopnik described it well, when they said, "The dark blue Seraph wears an interior which looks to have been pulled directly from the Palace of Versailles." Jackson was said to have designed the interior himself, which probably explains the generous use of 24-carat gold. The vehicle was said to have a 5.4-liter V12 aluminum engine that generated up to 322 horsepower.
Michael Jackson 1999 Rolls-Royce Silver Seraph Touring Limousine
Michael Jackson 1999 Rolls-Royce Silver Seraph Touring Limousine

Back in February it was announced that a collection of items belonging to Michael Jackson would be auctioned off, including his own fleet of vehicles. Although that auction was cancelled in mid-April, it gave us a chance see how the King of Pop lived while being chauffeured around California.

Michael Jackson 1999 Rolls-Royce Silver Seraph Limousine
Michael Jackson 1999 Rolls-Royce Silver Seraph Limousine

Now that MJ has passed on, we decided to take a look back at these vehicles. It is unknown what will happen to many of the Neverland Ranch possessions (Jackson did have a lot of debt), and surely some of these will wind up either on the auction block, or in a museum.

Michael Jackson's 1956 Cadillac Fleetwood Series 60 Special 4 Door sedan from Driving Miss Daisy
Michael Jackson's 1956 Cadillac Fleetwood Series 60 Special 4 Door sedan from Driving Miss Daisy

Jackson owned a 1990 RollS Royce Silver Spur II, trimmed in contrasting white leather and black fabric. Dark, tinted windows were adorned in white curtains, and a full-service bar that was used for god-knows-what. His white, 1988 Lincoln Town Car had a much more subdued interior that used gray leather and fabric. The fourth limo is the same 1954 Cadillac Fleetwood used during the filming of Driving Miss Daisy. Jackson's collection included a 1997 Neoplan Tour Bus with individual seats and booths, and a king's crown embroidered in the carpet. Possibly used on the HIStory World Tour, the bus featured a bathroom lined in porcelain, gold, and granite.

Michael Jackson 1988 GMC V Jimmy Half-Ton High Sierra Classic and 1993 Ford Econoline E150 van
Michael Jackson 1988 GMC V Jimmy Half-Ton High Sierra Classic and 1993 Ford Econoline E150 van

Jackson other vehicles included a 1993 Ford Econoline van with leather seats, individual tv screens, and an old-school video game console, a 1986 GMC High Sierra firetruck, a 1988 GMC Jimmy, and a replica of a 1909 Detamble Model B Roadster. Amongst the collection was an electrified horse-drawn carriage, and a 2001 Harley Davidson touring police bike.

Michael Jackson's Neverland Valley electrified horse-drawn carriage
Michael Jackson's Neverland Valley electrified horse-drawn carriage
Michael Jackson's custom Peter Pan golf cart
Michael Jackson's custom Peter Pan golf cart
Michael Jackson's black Dodge Viper mini-car with The Simpsons decorations
Michael Jackson's black Dodge Viper mini-car with The Simpsons decorations
Michael Jackson's 1909 Detamble Model B Roadster Replica
Michael Jackson's 1909 Detamble Model B Roadster Replica
Source:worldcarfans

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Chevy to launch limited edition Bumblebee Camaro

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Diehard Transformers fans take note: Chevrolet is reportedly planning to launch a limited edition Bumblebee Camaro to capitalize on the upcoming flick, Revenge of the Fallen.

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We're sure none of you saw that coming, right? The car, available with either V6 or V8 power, will be available for order June 1 and the first cars are scheduled to roll down the assembly line on the 24th of that month, which, not coincidentally, is the same day the movie is scheduled for released in the U.S.

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Unfortunately, we don't have any images of the new Bumblebee package to show off or pricing information, but rumor has it that the car will be painted up in the same Rally Yellow that's available on other Camaros – importantly, that's not the darker color that's featured in the movies – set off by black racing stripes, of course.

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To help set the Bumblebee edition apart from its siblings, GM will equip the car with Transformers badging on the wheel centers and sill plates along with an embroidered emblem on the console inside. Thanks for the tip, Jay!
via:autoblog
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And they're off! Gumballers head out of Los Angeles on first leg of rally


Entrants of the 11th running of the Gumball 3000 started their cross-country rally Friday afternoon, cheered on by hundreds of fans as the cars began their journey at the Santa Monica pier in Los Angeles. The rally will also stop in Las Vegas, Sante Fe, Dallas, Houston, New Orleans, and Orlando before finishing in Miami. Judging from the selection of vehicles, supercars were most definitely the rides of choice this year.

There were a pair of Bugatti Veyrons, a handful of Mercedes-Benz McLaren SLRs, a Jaguar XJ220, SSC Ultimate Aero, Audi R8, and dozens of your standard Ferraris, Lamborghinis, and Aston Martins. Of course, there were also a few non-standard rides, like this bio-diesel Land Rover, a metallic-green lowrider, and this bad boy. We were on hand to see the cars off as well, and brought back plenty of high-res photos that can be seen in the gallery below.
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The Life Ball MINI 2009 designed by *The Blonds* for Katy Perry



MINI is once again teaming up with Life Ball to raise awareness and funds to fight AIDS by raffling off a customized MINI Cooper Convertible.









Press Release



The Life Ball MINI 2009, designed by "The Blonds" for Katy Perry.



Prize draw for the first time at this year's Life Ball.



Munich/Vienna. When fashion and music come together at the Life Ball, the result will always be something fascinating and unique - the new Life Ball MINI created in Katy Perry style by American designer duo The Blonds.



MINI is supporting the Life Ball for the ninth year in succession in 2009. The 17th Life Ball - taking place on 16 May 2009 - marks the beginning of a four-year cycle, the elements water, earth, air and fire representing both metaphorically and in their artistic embodiment the fundamental symbols of life. Europe's biggest AIDS charity event offers MINI an outstanding platform on which to underline its socio-political commitment.



The Life Ball MINI will be offered in a prize draw for the first time in 2009.

Becoming the owner of the new Life Ball MINI has never been easier for all MINI, Life Ball and Katy Perry fans. A ticket costs 10 euros and can be purchased at all Life Ball events, from all BMW and MINI dealers in Austria, directly from the Life Ball, from the official distributor of Austria's "class lottery" Prokopp and, of course, over the Internet. Go to www.mini.at for detailed information on the various sources. All the proceeds from the draw will go to the Life Ball and projects fighting HIV/AIDS.



The "Life Ball MINI 2009 designed by The Blonds for Katy Perry".

MINI handed American creative double-act The Blonds the latest addition to the MINI family - a new MINI Convertible - to serve as the canvas for their inspiration. The brains behind The Blonds are Puerto Rican Phillipe and US designer David Blond. The Life Ball MINI 2009 is dedicated to their friend Katy Perry. The singer has been in the music business since 2001 and achieved her international breakthrough in May 2008 with the worldwide hit "I Kissed a Girl". Its success was then surpassed by the follow-up single "Hot N Cold". Katy will escort "her" MINI down the Blue Carpet at the Life Ball.



The Blonds specialise in stand-out couture oozing sex appeal and glamour. Their outfits are striking, richly decorated and complemented by knock-out accessories: sparkling, dazzling, dramatic. Stars such as Beyoncé, Alicia Keys, Rihanna, Shakira, Madonna, Britney Spears and Dita von Teese have all worn creations by The Blonds at big occasions.



And now The Blonds' signature style and Katy Perry's personal look have come together to produce a one-off piece of automotive couture: the Life Ball MINI 2009.



"MINI is a long-standing Life Ball Partner with an exceptionally fine understanding of how to incorporate creativity into the fulfilment of a partnership," said Life Ball organiser Gery Keszler. "Year after year, the Life Ball MINIs created by the designers of the Life Ball Fashion Shows provide stunning evidence of this. The Life Ball MINI 2009 will be a special edition reflecting a life in the limelight; after all, international pop star Katy Perry and New York's The Blonds - the designers of this year's Life Ball Fashion Show - are responsible for the Life Ball MINI. The signature features of the pop princess and the cutting-edge designers are sex appeal and maximum glamour, set off by striking, richly decorated, knock-out accessories. I wish the future owner lots of fun with the Life Ball MINI."



MINI. A history of success.

The MINI has been a magnet for public affection ever since its launch in September 2001. In April 2007 - just six years after the start of series production - the one-millionth MINI rolled off the assembly line at the Oxford plant in England. The design, charisma and agile handling of the MINI made it a highly desirable car from day one.



The new MINI Convertible lays on an even more intense experience of freedom on the road. With its beautifully evolved design and extended functionality, state-of-the-art chassis technology, even more powerful and yet more economical engines, and further optimised safety systems, the latest edition of the open-top four-seater builds soundly on proven strengths. Added to which, new and attractive colour options and equipment details lend an extra level of appeal. An unbeatable standard of materials and workmanship reinforces the stand-alone status of the MINI Convertible as the only open-top premium car in its segment.



It goes without saying that the new MINI Convertible comes with the latest fuel-saving systems and optimisations. This MINIMALISM strategy includes the Auto Start Stop Function, Brake Energy Regeneration and the Shift Point Display. All of these measures reduce fuel consumption and therefore CO2 emissions.



The social commitment of the BMW Group.



Worldwide measures to combat HIV/AIDS are one of the main elements of the corporate and social policy pursued by the BMW Group. The company's involvement in South Africa is particularly wide-ranging, covering a comprehensive workplace programme for employees and their families, plus a number of different projects in the local communities and further afield. The carmaker is also committed to fighting this pandemic in other affected countries, such as Thailand and China. Membership of the Global Business Coalition on HIV/AIDS (GBC) underlines its long-term commitment at its various locations.

via:World Car Fans







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New York Auto Show: Honda Element Concept Transforms SUV into Dog-friendly Hauler


New dog-friendly transportation concepts designed for the Honda Element add canine-specific enhancements to one of the most dog-friendly vehicles available, American Honda Motor Co., Inc., announced today at the New York International Auto Show.

Developed specifically for the Element, the Dog Friendly™ components demonstrate the potential for a dedicated pet restraint system designed to meet the needs of dog owners. A finalized version of the Dog Friendly Element is scheduled to debut this fall. Major components will likely include:

* a cushioned pet bed in the cargo area with an elevated platform;
* second row and cargo area pet restraint systems;
* an extendable cargo area load-in ramp;
* a 12V DC rear ventilation fan;
* second-row seat covers with a dog pattern design (matches the bed fabric);
* all-season rubber floor mats with a toy bone pattern;
* a spill-resistant water bowl; and
* Dog Friendly exterior emblems.

“In an interesting turn of events, cars are now chasing dogs,” said John Mendel, executive vice president of American Honda. “Factory integration of a cushioned pet bed, restraint systems and other components are intended to transform the Element into the ultimate dog car.”
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2008 Chanel Fiore Design Concept in Video


Luxury brand buyers are chosen not for their practicality and functionality, and above all, for style, beauty and prestige. Jin Young Jo offers nebezyzvestnomu brand Chanel get their own car, the name he received Fiole.


Execution of the project is quite decent - good sketches, good design, interesting video presentation, and shape of the body is easy to read. Company logo of Chanel guessed and front lines, and at the rear of the sidewall Fiole.


The student created the Chanel Fiole concept as part of a class project. Using the words "Fashion Art of Vehicle," and being assigned the brand label famous for everything from perfume & makeup to watches & jewelry, Jin developed what he felt was a matching concept. "Fiole is inspired by the peculiarity of Chanel," he said. To elaborate this "peculiarity" he used only deep blacks and reflective whites. In his video animation of the vehicle, it is hard to tell if the car is black, or white reflecting its dark surroundings. An aerodynamic form was also important to Jin for the purpose of this project. Hence, he designed the Fiole in such a way that it


Such a vehicle could stand at the head of all the products offered by Chanel, and buyers would be found. Why not.



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