Concept car Porsche 911 Turbo TechArt GTstreet Model 997

Design Interior Cockpit Porsche 911 Turbo TechArt

The cockpit of the TechArt GTstreet also differs distinctly from the stock 911 Turbo. Among the differences is an exclusive leather interior with color-contrasted stitching and sporty CarboBlack highlights. The coupe is further equipped with an ergonomically shaped TechArt sport steering wheel, aluminum foot pedals, foot rest and shifter, as well as with illuminated door sills sporting the TechArt logo.

Cool Porsche 911 Turbo TechArt in the Front

German TechArt studio will present in Geneva its latest tire-burner based on the current Porsche 911 Turbo 997 series super-coupe. While most tuners focus their efforts on eye-popping exterior enhancements, TechArt’s engineers have centered their attention

Porsche 911 Turbo TechArt with based on Design

With its 2001 TechArt GTstreet, based on the Porsche 911 Turbo of the 996 model series, TechArt created one of the fastest and most powerful street-legal sports cars of its time. The next evolutionary stage of this fascinating concept celebrates its world debut at the Geneva Motor Show 2007. The new TechArt GTstreet, based on the 911 Turbo of the latest 997 series, starts at $320,000. Like the predecessor the new GTstreet edition centers on a powerful engine. The 3.6-liter twin-turbo flat engine is modified by the TechArt engine specialists and now develops 630 bhp at 6,800 rpm, up from standard 480 bhp. Peak torque increases to 605 lb-ft at 4,500 rpm.

Porsche 911 Turbo TechArt on Back Body

The TechArt GTstreet rear fascia with integrated carbon-fiber diffuser contributes to the strong downforce generated on the rear axle. It also provides the perfect backdrop for the quad exhaust of the TechArt high-performance exhaust system. TechArt Automobildesign offers a number of versions of its popular Formula wheel in sizes 8.5Jx20 in front and 12Jx20 on the rear axle. GTstreet buyers can choose from several color combinations and between the one-piece Formula and the multi-piece Formula II designs. The Formula II wheel features an exchangeable wheel lip. For optimal tires TechArt chose ContiSportContact 3 high-performance tires in sizes 245/30 ZR20 and 325/25 ZR20. The large 20-inch wheels also provide the necessary space for the especially powerful and durable TechArt high-performance brake system. It features six-piston aluminum fixed calipers and 390-millimeter discs on the front axle. The rear axle is fitted with 365-millimeter discs and four-piston fixed calipers. The TechArt GTstreet comes with a TechArt VarioPlus coil-over suspension that is based on the electronically adjustable PASM damping system of the 911 Turbo. This chassis allows individual ride-height lowering by up to 25 millimeters and push-button selection of two different damper settings, “Normal” or “Sport.” However, the dampers are not limited to these presets. Sporty driving automatically results in firmer damper settings in both modes, thus combining excellent ride comfort during normal driving with agile and responsive handling during fast cornering.

Porsche 911 Turbo TechArt in Beside

The body kit for the TechArt GTstreet was created in the wind tunnel, and offers an optimal symbiosis of aerodynamic down force, minimized drag and striking design. The front fascia of the GTstreet with retractable carbon-fiber splitter produces down force on the front axle and provides radiator, oil coolers and brakes with more cooling air, thanks to its large, striking air inlets. The auxiliary headlamp units with daytime running lights and fog lamps improve active safety. They also give the car even more passing clout. The TechArt GTstreet fender flares on the front axle add 10 mm to the two-door’s width and give it an even more dynamic appearance. But that’s not all: The air outlets behind the front wheel houses optimize brake venting. The larger air ducts in the rear sidewalls provide engine and inter coolers with a larger supply of cooling air. For an optimal transition between front and rear fenders the TechArt designers have developed rocker panels that complement the new contours. TechArt mirror and headlamp moldings provide the finishing touches. The TechArt roof spoiler extends the roof line and optimizes airflow to the adjustable rear airfoil of the GTstreet.

Concept car Porsche 911 Turbo TechArt GTstreet Model 997

Design Interior Cockpit Porsche 911 Turbo TechArt

The cockpit of the TechArt GTstreet also differs distinctly from the stock 911 Turbo. Among the differences is an exclusive leather interior with color-contrasted stitching and sporty CarboBlack highlights. The coupe is further equipped with an ergonomically shaped TechArt sport steering wheel, aluminum foot pedals, foot rest and shifter, as well as with illuminated door sills sporting the TechArt logo.

Cool Porsche 911 Turbo TechArt in the Front

German TechArt studio will present in Geneva its latest tire-burner based on the current Porsche 911 Turbo 997 series super-coupe. While most tuners focus their efforts on eye-popping exterior enhancements, TechArt’s engineers have centered their attention

Porsche 911 Turbo TechArt with based on Design

With its 2001 TechArt GTstreet, based on the Porsche 911 Turbo of the 996 model series, TechArt created one of the fastest and most powerful street-legal sports cars of its time. The next evolutionary stage of this fascinating concept celebrates its world debut at the Geneva Motor Show 2007. The new TechArt GTstreet, based on the 911 Turbo of the latest 997 series, starts at $320,000. Like the predecessor the new GTstreet edition centers on a powerful engine. The 3.6-liter twin-turbo flat engine is modified by the TechArt engine specialists and now develops 630 bhp at 6,800 rpm, up from standard 480 bhp. Peak torque increases to 605 lb-ft at 4,500 rpm.

Porsche 911 Turbo TechArt on Back Body

The TechArt GTstreet rear fascia with integrated carbon-fiber diffuser contributes to the strong downforce generated on the rear axle. It also provides the perfect backdrop for the quad exhaust of the TechArt high-performance exhaust system. TechArt Automobildesign offers a number of versions of its popular Formula wheel in sizes 8.5Jx20 in front and 12Jx20 on the rear axle. GTstreet buyers can choose from several color combinations and between the one-piece Formula and the multi-piece Formula II designs. The Formula II wheel features an exchangeable wheel lip. For optimal tires TechArt chose ContiSportContact 3 high-performance tires in sizes 245/30 ZR20 and 325/25 ZR20. The large 20-inch wheels also provide the necessary space for the especially powerful and durable TechArt high-performance brake system. It features six-piston aluminum fixed calipers and 390-millimeter discs on the front axle. The rear axle is fitted with 365-millimeter discs and four-piston fixed calipers. The TechArt GTstreet comes with a TechArt VarioPlus coil-over suspension that is based on the electronically adjustable PASM damping system of the 911 Turbo. This chassis allows individual ride-height lowering by up to 25 millimeters and push-button selection of two different damper settings, “Normal” or “Sport.” However, the dampers are not limited to these presets. Sporty driving automatically results in firmer damper settings in both modes, thus combining excellent ride comfort during normal driving with agile and responsive handling during fast cornering.

Porsche 911 Turbo TechArt in Beside

The body kit for the TechArt GTstreet was created in the wind tunnel, and offers an optimal symbiosis of aerodynamic down force, minimized drag and striking design. The front fascia of the GTstreet with retractable carbon-fiber splitter produces down force on the front axle and provides radiator, oil coolers and brakes with more cooling air, thanks to its large, striking air inlets. The auxiliary headlamp units with daytime running lights and fog lamps improve active safety. They also give the car even more passing clout. The TechArt GTstreet fender flares on the front axle add 10 mm to the two-door’s width and give it an even more dynamic appearance. But that’s not all: The air outlets behind the front wheel houses optimize brake venting. The larger air ducts in the rear sidewalls provide engine and inter coolers with a larger supply of cooling air. For an optimal transition between front and rear fenders the TechArt designers have developed rocker panels that complement the new contours. TechArt mirror and headlamp moldings provide the finishing touches. The TechArt roof spoiler extends the roof line and optimizes airflow to the adjustable rear airfoil of the GTstreet.

New Fenix Supercar

After first announcing plans for a new sports car company last November, Lee Noble, the man behind the newly established Fenix Automotive, has released several teaser sketches of a brand new supercar project his company is working on.

Due for launch in the second half of the year, the Fenix Automotive supercar will be a two-seater mid-engined vehicle with up to 650-horsepower and cost upwards of £100,000 (approximately $162,504).


Lee Noble calls it 'a natural, but even more focused successor' to the M12. And it'll be quick: power comes from a choice of two GM-sourced V8s mounted amidships and driving the rear wheels through a Graziano transmission.

'The M12 was hugely successful, but we needed to move the game on in terms of design,' he says. 'The new car’s styling owes nothing to what I’ve done before and has quite literally been a ‘clean sheet’ exercise from the start. It’s edgy, with powerful lines, and aerodynamically will be in another league to any of my previous cars.'


Several different versions will be developed, with power ranging from 480-horsepower in the base model equipped with a GM-sourced LS3 V-8 and topping out at 650-horsepower for the supercharged LS9-equipped range-topper. The gearbox will be a Graziano six-speed manual unit, which incidentally is the same one used in the upcoming Noble M600.
Other details include a 2,645-pounds kerb weight and a 0-60 mph time of less than 3.5 seconds. Top speed will be in excess of 200 mph.
According to Noble, the car will feature a special feature that will make compliant on the road or the track. The first prototype is already in development and production should start in the middle of the year. Only 100 units are planned and no details have been released on whether it will be manufactured in left-hand drive.
via:motorauthority

KBB lists its "most researched" new cars and trucks in 2009

Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com Names Most-Researched New Vehicles for 2009, Brands With Greatest Share of Market Interest This Year

Chevy Equinox and Camaro, Ford Fusion, Lexus RX 350 Jump into 2009's Top 20 Most-Researched New Cars

IRVINE, Calif., Dec. 29 /PRNewswire/ -- Kelley Blue Book, the leading provider of new and used car information, today announces the most-researched new vehicles of 2009 on the company's top-rated Web site, www.kbb.com. In addition, Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com reveals the top five brands with the greatest share of market interest for 2009.

This year marks the fourth consecutive year that Kelley Blue Book saw increased visitation to its Web site, with nearly 180 million visits to kbb.com in 2009. Because kbb.com is one of the most-trafficked automotive research sites, visitation to specific vehicles has become a leading indicator of sales patterns for manufacturers.


Kbb.com's Top 20 Most-Researched New Vehicles of 2009

1. Honda Accord
2. Honda Civic
3. Toyota Camry
4. Honda CR-V
5. Toyota Corolla
6. Toyota RAV4
7. Toyota Highlander
8. Toyota Prius
9. Nissan Altima
10. Honda Pilot
11. Ford Escape
12. Chevrolet Camaro
13. Honda Odyssey
14. Ford Fusion
15. Mazda3
16. Ford Mustang
17. Volkswagen Jetta
18. Toyota Sienna
19. Lexus RX 350
20. Chevrolet Equinox


The Honda Civic, Honda Accord and Toyota Camry (in varying orders each year) have been the top three most-researched new-vehicles on kbb.com each year since 2004. However, many vehicles made noteworthy jumps into the top 20 most-researched new-vehicles for 2009 that were not on the list in 2008. Chevrolet's all-new redesigned Equinox and Camaro models both grace this year's list for the first time. Also new to this year's top 20 are the recently revamped Lexus RX 350 and the popular, fast-selling Ford Fusion.

The stabilization in gas prices for 2009 has indicated a trend away from smaller, more fuel-efficient vehicles over the past year, and thus some popular small cars that were among the most-researched in 2008 have fallen off the list for 2009. Subcompact cars like the Toyota Yaris and Honda Fit, along with the compact MINI Cooper, were among the most-researched new cars last year, but do not hold court among the most-researched models this year. In addition, Chevy's Malibu, redesigned for the 2008 model-year and featured on last year's 'most-researched' list, has seen some of its popularity fade over the past year, no longer listing among the top 20 most-researched new cars of 2009.

"The site traffic on Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com demonstrates what is on the minds of today's new-car shoppers, especially when examining the most-researched new-vehicles of 2009," said James Bell, executive market analyst for Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com. "Declined interest in smaller, more fuel-efficient vehicles and increased popularity in attractive, recently redesigned models is an accurate reflection of the marketplace in 2009. We also see that consumers are reacting well to new models and redesigns from domestic manufacturers like Chevy and Ford, which bodes well for their future sales numbers."


Top Five Brands with Greatest Share of Market Interest on Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com for 2009

1. Toyota
2. Honda
3. Ford
4. Chevrolet
5. Nissan

Toyota, Honda, Ford, Chevrolet and Nissan (respectively) are the top five brands with the highest share of market interest -- defined as the percent of new-car shopper activity for a particular brand -- on Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com for 2009. Of those brands, Ford saw the most growth throughout the course of the year, with its share rising steadily in the first half of the year and peaking during the summer months, benefitting as the only domestic manufacturer that did not require a bailout or undergo bankruptcy. Ford also benefitted from the "Cash-for-Clunkers" program during the summer of 2009, due to its aggressive promotion of the program.

About Kelley Blue Book (www.kbb.com)

Since 1926, Kelley Blue Book, The Trusted Resource®, has provided vehicle buyers and sellers with the new and used vehicle information they need to accomplish their goals with confidence. The company's top-rated Web site, www.kbb.com, provides the most up-to-date pricing and values, including the New Car Blue Book® Value, which reveals what people actually are paying for new cars. The company also reports vehicle pricing and values via products and services, including software products and the famous Blue Book® Official Guide. According to the C.A. Walker Research Solutions, Inc. - 2009 Spring Automotive Web Site Usefulness Study, kbb.com is the most useful automotive information Web site among new and used vehicle shoppers, and half of online vehicle shoppers visit kbb.com. Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com also is a W3 Gold Award winner, sanctioned by the International Academy of Visual Arts. Kbb.com is a leading provider of new car prices, car reviews and news, used car Blue Book Values, auto classifieds and car dealer locations. No other medium reaches more in-market vehicle shoppers than kbb.com.
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2010: FORMULA LE MANS ALONGSIDE THE BIG PLAYERS !

FORMULA LE MANS IS A GENUINE RACING NURSERY AND THE "FIRST STEP" TOWARDS ENDURANCE RACING. AS SUCH THE AUTOMOBILE CLUB DE L'OUEST HOLDS IT DEAR AND HAS GRANTED THE ENTRANCE TO THE "LE MANS SERIES" ENDURANCE RACES.

From the next racing season on, FORMULA LE MANS owners (ORECA FLM monotype prototype / 420 BHP GM engine) will have the grand opportunity to take part in LE MANS SERIES 1000 km races in Europe. The FLM are also announced in Northern America within the "ALMS" starting in 2010.


The 2009 model will undergo minor modifications with an "Endurance Kit" including an engine intake restrictor in order to position this "economic prototype" at some distance from the LMP2, but nevertheless in front of the GT2 pack.

The cars will participate in their own FLM Championship within the Le Mans Series races including a specific ranking, a separate podium ceremony and a dedicated FLM-ORECA motorhome at each meeting. Registrations to the 2010 FLM Championship are already open as the available seats are limited and due to the fact that regular LMS contestants have priority.


The organizers reckon with about a dozen contestants for the four European Le Mans Series races (PAUL RICARD-HTTT / SPA-FRANCORCHAMPS / SILVERSTONE / + 1 Le Mans Series race to be defined). There will be an additional meeting outside of the LMS framework during the 2010 season.
Teams can be composed of 2 to 3 drivers (with at least one gentleman driver). There will be DRIVERS', GENTLEMAN DRIVERS' and TEAM' Championships. Just like the 2009 FLM Champions Nico VERDONCK (Belgium) and Gavin CRONJE (South Africa), the 2010 Champions will be offered a test day in LMP1 – LMP2 within Team ORECA.

Lastly, the Le Mans 24 Hours are not included in the FLM racing calendar, hence the prototypes will not be entitled to qualify for the 24 Hours.


Pierre FILLON FLM President and ACO Vice President:

"The FLM is in line with ACO's intentions to develop a genuine endurance racing racing nursery! In 2010, the nursery will gear up with the launch of a Le Mans prototype drive academy with an ACO academy award on the one hand and on the other hand with the integration of the FLM into LMS races. As a consequence the learning conditions for all new drivers and teams are similar to those of the Le Mans 24 Hours in LMP1 or LMP2."


Hugues De CHAUNAC, FLM Manager and CEO of ORECA:

"Formula Le Mans' evolution towards the Le Mans Series occurred naturally. With the ACO, we are going to give fresh impetus to this racing category thanks to the latest measures. Formula Le Mans will take on a whole new dimension as a pre-stage to endurance racing, and on top of that it will benefit from the Le Mans Series' aura and media coverage. In addition to top-level performance and very reasonable running costs there will be the prestige and sports-related interest inherent in long-distance races like the 1000 km races."


Patrick PETER, Le Mans Endurance Organisation CEO, Le Mans Series co-organizer with the ACO:

"We are pleased to welcome the FLM within the Le Mans Series races. We hope that this racing nursery will highlight many young talents who will doubtlessly leave a trace in future glorious moments of endurance racing in Europe and throughout the world."
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New Ford Police Interceptor Coming To A Crime Scene Near You In 2011

The new car will replace the current Crown Vic with no interruption in supply when it hits the market in late 2011. The Crown Victoria retail vehicle has been off the street for public consumption for a while now, but the car is still being supplied as a fleet and police vehicle.
more detail. ...

Watkins Glen International plans opening weekend tribute to Mark Donohue

By now, racing fans should be aware that when David Donohue grabbed the checkered flag at the 2009 Rolex 24 Hours of Daytona his win came on the 40th anniversary of his father's 1969 victory.

The Daytona outcome won't be the last tribute to Mark Donohue in 2009, either. Watkins Glen International is planning a weekend of Donohue festivities for their season-opener in April. The event will be a celebration to compliment the official release of a new Mark Donohue biography, which is something that fans of the The Unfair Advantage will surely want to add to their reading lists. The book's author and Watkins Glen founder's son, Michael Argetsinger, will be on hand for autographs and conversation. The ultimate American racing history lesson will also take place as the track opens for tribute laps by many vintage race cars once piloted by Mark Donohue. If you happen to be in the upstate New York area, mark the calendars for April 25th and 26th. Thanks for the tip Jon!
more detail. ...

Confusion about petrol price

Cape Town - Although fuel prices fall by R1.34/litre for 95 octane and R1.3/litre for 93 octane on Wednesday, the increased transport levy in certain areas, as well as the shifting of certain regions to new price zones, could cause motorists some confusion.

The department of Minerals & Energy has made adjustments to the price zones into which the country is divided, and for which different transport levies are applicable.

The changes are required because the existing divisions and transport levy do not reflect the most recent forms of transport and costs, fuel company Engen announced.
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Lancia to cancel top-of-the-line Thesis this year?

You'd be forgiven for not knowing much about the Lancia Thesis. Or perhaps mistaking it for something like a SsangYong. The range-topping luxosedan from Fiat's quirky cousin was never sold in North America, and even in the European market has remained something of an anomaly.

We had a chance to ride in one on the way to the airport after driving the Alfa MiTo in Italy and were generally impressed, but with its homely, oddball styling and less-reputed badge, it never really stood a chance against class-leaders like the Mercedes E-Class, BMW 5 Series or Audi A6. Now, after less than seven years on the market, Fiat is reportedly set to pull the plug.


As it is, the Thesis is only made on demand, which has been relatively ( and understandably) low. Until the introduction of the Maserati Quattroporte in 2004, the Thesis was the largest and most luxurious sedan in the Fiat Group portfolio, but with dismal sales amidst difficult economic times, the Italian auto giant can no longer justify its continued production. Despite having no replacement in the pipeline, Fiat CEO Sergio Marchionne reportedly announced the model's discontinuation for this past year, but production is now tipped to drag out until the Spring. The Lancia Thesis may have its small cadre of fans, but by and large it's not likely to be especially missed as it rolls towards the sunset. To commemorate its passing, we've assembled the gallery below.
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2009 Goodwood Festival of Speed theme: 'True Grit - Epic Feats of Endurance'

The Earl of March has announced that the theme of the 2009 Goodwood Festival of Speed (FoS) will be "True Grit – Epic Feats of Endurance." Think monumental drive and determination from motor racing legends like Jackie Stewart, who won the 1968 German Grand Prix with a broken wrist.

That sort of thing. The Festival will take place July 3-5 and hopefully we'll be there to cover it for all of you. The 1.16-mile hillclimb is always a delight, with some of the most famous drivers in motorsports history driving the cars (and bikes) that made them household names.
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Car news : Roewe 550, 750 arrive in Chile as MGs

Remember the Roewe 550? Pretty nice-looking ride, especially for a Chinese car, considering some of the freakishly awful stuff that comes out of the country. SAIC apparently realizes that in terms of name recognition, MG > Roewe. Case in point: the introduction of the 550 and 750 sedans in Chile, where both cars are now being sold under the MG moniker by importer SK Bergé. The two four-doors will reportedly be joined by the TF roadster in November, but despite the traditionally British nameplate adorning their respective bonnets, all three are made in China. You know, like everything else. You can see a gallery of the brand's launch event in Santiago here.
Source:autoblog



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Avions Voisin new supercar concept

Just as Volkswagen Group’s veyro supercar revived the longstanding Bugatti label, Portuguese-based designer Ernesto Freitas from Luso Motors envisages his new Voisin concept injecting some life into France’s forgotten carmaker, Avions Voisin. At the moment his new Voisin Concept remains just a 3D simulated model but Freitas has plans to create a full scale model and hopes to display it at several international car shows.

Avions Voisin was a carmaker based in Paris, which built a number of luxury cars from 1919 up until 1939. During its prime Voisin was competing with the likes of Bugatti and Bentley but the label eventually experienced some financial strife and a number of its key engineers were lost to fellow French carmaker Renault.

Freitas’ latest design draws obvious inspiration from the Bugatti Veyron and has been designed to accommodate a V12 powerplant in its engine bay. The designer’s choice would be a V12 Audi diesel but for now it remains just a dream.

Via: Autoblog.nl

Chana Benni leads passenger car intro to SA

Chana, which has been in the South African market since June 2006, has revealed it will start importing passenger cars into the country from mid-March. Only commercial vehicles have been sold under the auspices of Chana. The first of these people carriers will be the 1.3-litre Benni with its front-wheel driven 63kW and 110Nm of torque.

Sold with two trim levels of Exclusive and Lux, the Benni is only available with a 5-speed manual gearbox. Lux will list as one of the South Africa’s cheapest new cars at R74,900/ €6,070. It comes with comfort creatures such as air conditioning, colour coded bumpers and side mirrors and integrated fog lamps among other things. Exclusive trim includes exciting additions like electric windows all around, a CD player, ABS and power steering, all of which are features aimed at pampering all the lucky Benni buyers.


Chana SA even has a rally car based on one of their commercial vehicles। Last year the company took some brave/ slow-headed media, depending on who you ask, on a 21,000km journey to Chongqing in China using among other vehicles, a Benni. Therefore durability is hardly in question.


Press Release

The new Chana Benni is the first passenger car to be introduced by Chana South Africa, distributor of the now, well known Chana Star range of commercial vehicles.
Benni was first introduced to the media when the tough little car trekked across often inhospitable terrain as part of Chana Trax, a 21 000 km road journey from Chongqing, China to South Africa. During this epic journey, Benni proved to be durable and reliable facing daunting rock strewn ‘roads’ and tarred highways alike, emerging without any mechanical failure and not even as much as a rattle. Temperature extremes of minus 8 degrees Celsius to plus 53 degrees Celsius and beyond did not phase the tough little Benni. For many journalists who joined the Chana Trax experience, Benni was the hero, having been expected to endure punishment more suited to hardy 4x4 vehicles.

Both the ‘Lux’ and ‘Exclusive’ variants of the Benni offer high levels of equipment as standard. The ‘Lux’ offers aircon, colour coded bumpers and side mirrors, integrated fog lamps, remote central locking and radio/MP3 interface, whilst the ‘Exclusive’ offers electric front and rear windows, integrated fog lamps, colour coded bumpers and side mirrors, driver airbag, ABS braking with EBD, power steering, radio/CD, alloy wheels, aircon, remote central locking and rear window wash/wiper with demister. The ‘Lux’ and ‘Exclusive’ Benni will retail at R74 900 and R84 900 respectively and are both powered by a 63 kW front-wheel-drive 1300cc fuel injected engine. The 1.3 liter engine produces 110Nm of torque at 3500 – 4500 rpm with maximum speed rated at 158 km/h. Initially, the Benni will only be available with a 5 speed manual transmission.

Styled in Italy, the Benni 5 door hatch back has a fresh, modern design that will appeal to a wide audience. The interior space is surprisingly generous for a car measuring in at a total of 3 525 mm in length and offers the driver and passengers enough room to feel comfortable. The high roof line (at 1550 mm) allows ample front and rear head room. Controls are user-friendly and are well within reach of the driver. The elliptical, silver-finished dash centre console is modern and houses the radio and aircon controls. The silver finish is echoed on the interior door closing handles, which integrates the electric window controls.
Benni will also sport the all-new Chana logo for passenger cars. Whilst the commercial vehicle logo remains unchanged, the new passenger logo featuring a spear-head design on a shield background will differentiate the passenger and commercial ranges. Both ranges will however be available from all Chana dealers.
Benni will be available through the countywide Chana network from mid-March 2008.

Source: Chana SA

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Tag Heuer Provides Night Vision Glasses

If these Tag Heuer sunglasses are good enough for 24 hour Le Mans races, Sebastien Bourdais and Indy 500 driver Sarah Fisher, they are pretty much good for anyone else. As you may very well be aware, 24 Hour Le Mans is all about endurance and consistency. It’s like the Comrades Marathon of motor racing.

Available to the general populace, these Night Vision eye glasses as they are appropriately named, offer a high-tech solution to the problem of light and changing colour perception. They offer “constant clear, sharp vision with a very high light transmission rate in order to contrast dark blue and green surroundings without changing color perception”. Nothing here says they’ll make you faster, so don’t buy them with those unrealistic expectations.

Made from titanium, Night Vision is sold with both Wide and Panorama options, and their special ophthalmic lenses are anti-reflective, offering 100% protection against UV-A and UV-B. Titanium is of course known to have the highest strength-to-weight ratio of any metal currently known to man. Therefore breakage and corrosion are virtually unknown terms to Night Vision.


Press Release

A revolution that can be appreciated on the track as well as on the road – TAG Heuer “Avant-Garde” Eyewear has developed innovative glasses exclusively for drivers. Aptly named “Night Vision,” these glasses correct the low-light short-sightedness that everyone endures from twilight to sunrise. “Night Vision” eyeglasses optimize precision and enhance perception of contrasts for more comfort while driving at night. Featuring “TAG Heuer Reflex-type” flexible temples, they are adjustable and fit comfortably under motorcycle and racing helmets.

Originally inspired by and developed for the internationally renowned 24 Hours of LeMans sports car endurance race, TAG Heuer Eyewear plans to market their purpose-made “Night Vision” eyeglasses via real racecar drivers. You’ll see them on Formula One racer Sebastien Bourdais and Indianapolis 500 driver Sarah Fisher. These innovative glasses will be available to the public in early 2008.

The titanium Night Vision frames are available in both Wide and Panorama, with anti-slip elastomere arms. Their pale yellow lenses offer constant clear, sharp vision with a very high light transmission rate in order to contrast dark blue and green surroundings without changing color perception. The special ophthalmic lenses offer an anti-reflective treatment, which reduces glare and offers more accurate sight. A driver’s essential: these glasses are designed to maximize performance from dusk to dawn.

TAG Heuer – maker of high-end sports watches and chronographs since 1860 – has been applying the same standards for design and quality found in their timepieces to the creation of exceptional eyewear since 2002. All TAG Heuer Eyewear lenses are shatter-resistant, ultra-light and provide 100% UV-A and UV-B protection.
Source: Tag Heuer

Final Roush P-51A to Be Auctioned for Charity

The extremely limited run of 151 Roush P-51A Mustangs sold out within 24 hours of its introduction, but you've got one last chance to pick up the most powerful ponycar that Roush has ever produced. Roush Performance plans to auction car number 151, the last of the 2008 production run, at the Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Event in West Palm Beach, Florida on Saturday, March 29. The auction will take place live on the SPEED Channel, and proceeds will go to the Salute to Education Scholarship charity.

In case you missed it the first time, the P-51A is a monster modified Mustang that takes its inspiration in part from the World War II P-51 fighter plane. Major modifications to the completely rebuilt 4.6 liter V8 include a forged eight-bolt crank, forged aluminum pistons that lower compression from 9:8 to 8:6, a custom upper and lower intake manifold, custom Roush fuel rail with high-flow fuel injectors, a dual electronic throttle body, and the latest ROUSHcharger supercharger with intercooler. It's all good for 510 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque, and all of that even comes with a 3 year/36,000 mile warranty, something many tuner cars don't boast.

The P-51A's paint scheme is inspired by the WWII fighter, with steel gray panels accented with the yellow and red colors used by the 357th Fighters Group, Eighth Air Force ETO (European Theater Operations), one of the most successful American aerial combat groups.



Press Release

ROUSH® Performance, in partnership with the Ford Motor Company, is going to put the very last production 2008 ROUSH P-51A™ Mustang under the gavel and spotlights of the Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Event at West Palm Beach, Fla. This car, number 151 in a limited production run of 151, will be sold on Saturday, March 29 with proceeds going to the Salute to Education Scholarship charity.
“Number 151 is a pretty significant car for ROUSH considering the total inventory of ROUSH P-51A Mustangs basically sold out within 24 hours when the dealer order banks were opened up,” said Joe Thompson, general manager of ROUSH Performance. “Whoever ends up with this car will truly acquire a part of ROUSH history.”
Jack Roush, the motorsports legend, NASCAR team owner, and aviation enthusiast who owns and flies his own World War II P-51 fighter planes, will be in attendance personally overseeing the bidding on the highest horsepower Mustang that ROUSH Performance has every built. He is flying in from the NASCAR Sprint Cup race at Matinsville (Va.) Speedway specifically for the auction.
Shown in the Barrett-Jackson catalog as lot number 667, the ROUSH P-51A is expected to be seen going under the gavel live during the SPEED Channel television broadcast that evening.
“It is for a very worthwhile cause that we are putting up this ROUSH P-51A Mustang,” said Jack Roush. “I am proud of the work that the ROUSH engineers put into the development, I am proud of the finished vehicle, and I am proud that we can help to support the Salute to Education with the proceeds from the auction.”
The ROUSH P-51A is easily the highest horsepower Mustang that the company has ever produced, and represents the first time that internal engine components have been upgraded by ROUSH technicians in their Livonia, Mich., facility. The stock Ford 4.6L, 3V engine sees a rebuild of several of the functional internal components, including a forged steel eight-bolt crankshaft, forged aluminum pistons with increased dish to lower the compression from 9:8 to 8:6, and forged steel H-Beam connecting rods. These upgraded parts were necessary for the stock Ford engine (which comes with 300 horsepower from the factory) to be able to withstand the additional power generated from the newest iteration of the legendary ROUSHcharger™ supercharger system.
Additional alterations include a custom aluminum upper and lower intake manifold for the high capacity air-to-water intercooler and ROUSHcharger. ROUSH installs a custom fuel rail and high-flow fuel injectors, a high-flow capacity fuel system, as well as a dual electronic throttle body. The new ROUSH P-51A engine has a rating of 510 horsepower and 510 lb.-ft. torque. As with all ROUSH vehicles, the P-51A has an industry-leading 3 year/36,000 mile warranty.
As an interesting side note, the yellow and red accent colors on the vehicle come from those used by the 357th Fighters Group, Eighth Air Force ETO (European Theater Operations) who were unofficially known as “The Yoxford Boys” after a village near their base. Its victory totals in air-to-air combat are the most of any P-51 group in the Eighth Air Force and third among all groups fighting in Europe. The 357th flew 313 combat missions between February 11, 1944 and April 25, 1945 and is officially credited by the US Air Force with having destroyed 595.5 German airplanes in the air and 106.5 on the ground. Pilots in this group included Captain Clarence E. “Bud” Anderson who flew a P-51 named “Old Crow.” One of Roush’s personal P-51 fighters is painted as a replica of this airplane.
The Salute to Education Scholarship is awarded to high school seniors who demonstrate community service, academic achievement, leadership and strong educational and career goals. Ford Motor Company, participating Ford and Lincoln Mercury dealers, and Ford Motor Credit fund the program
which has helped thousands of students realize their dream for a college or university education.
Participating Ford and Lincoln Mercury dealers and Ford Motor Company have distributed more than $11 million in scholarships and educational grants in communities in Texas, California and Florida.
“Ford and the South Florida Ford Dealers are excited to partner with ROUSH Performance on this auction to benefit the Ford Salute to Education Scholarship Program. The P-51A Mustang is a real show stopper and will generate huge excitement at Barrett-Jackson Palm Beach bringing substantial money to the scholarship fund,” explained Kevin Giacomini, regional sales manager of Ford, Lincoln Mercury Sales Operations Orlando Region.

Source: Roush

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Roush P-51A Mustang Debut at SEMA
Roush Increases P-51A* Production

Suzuki Kizashi 3 Concept Headed for New York

Suzuki plans to debut the latest in its Kizashi series of design concepts at the New York Auto Show in March. The Concept Kizashi 3 is an upscale sports sedan, and based on early sketches released by Suzuki, could be close to production. The Concept Kizashi 3 will be joined on the New York stand by the Concept Kizashi and Concept Kizashi 2. It will be the first North American appearance for the Kizashi concept series.

Inspired by the theme of a "dynamic athlete in motion," the Kizashi concepts hint at a new design language for Suzuki's automotive lineup. With the recent introduction of the Equator pickup truck, Suzuki has hinted strongly at plans to expand the lineup further with a flagship luxury sedan. Could the Concept Kizashi 3 be it? We'll find out in a couple of weeks.
Press Release

Brea, Calif., (March 6, 2008) – The New York International Auto Show welcomes American Suzuki Motor Corp. on Thursday, March 20, as the company debuts its sleek and athletic Concept Kizashi 3, the final addition to its acclaimed Kizashi concept series. The Concept Kizashi 3, which suggests both Suzuki’s future design direction and stated intent to offer a larger, more upscale sport sedan, will be joined in New York by the North American debuts of the Concept Kizashi and Concept Kizashi 2.

The Kizashi concept series was developed by Suzuki’s Advanced Design Group to reflect a dynamic athlete in motion, taking its design cues from a strong, honed physique while displaying the performance, strength and style befitting a flagship vehicle. The design theme began with the Concept Kizashi, which made its debut at the 2007 International Motor Show in Frankfurt, and the Concept Kizashi 2, unveiled at the 2007 Tokyo Motor Show last October, which further pushed Suzuki’s new design language. The Concept Kizashi 3 will represent the completion of the Kizashi concept series as well as providing a closer-to-production vision of a future Suzuki sport sedan offering. The complete Kizashi concept series will be revealed at the Suzuki press conference on Thursday, March 20, at 12:10 p.m. in booth 1215 at the Javits center.

Source: Suzuki

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GM Announces Plans For Next Generation Hybrids

While most of the attention at the General Motors exhibit in Geneva focused on the Saab 9-X’s design, the company also used the concept to showcase their next generation of hybrid technology.

Using more powerful lithium-ion batteries supplied by Hitachi, the next generation of GM hybrids will have up to a 20% increase in fuel economy compared to their gasoline powered counterparts. By building upon success of their current mild and two-mode hybrid lineup, the company will be able to make the new hybrids more affordable and expand their application globally. To optimize fuel economy the future hybrids will feature stop/start technology, temporary electric only propulsion, more powerful electric motors, extended fuel cutoff during deceleration, an improved regenerative braking system, and intelligent battery charging.

The company plans to begin rolling out their next generation hybrids in 2010 starting with the North American market, sales are expected to eventually surpass 100,000 units annually.
Press Release

Next-Generation GM Hybrid System Announced in Geneva

High-volume system will debut in North America in 2010, and then expand globally
Hitachi to supply new lithium-ion battery
Cost-effective technology to improve fuel economy by up to 20 percent

GENEVA - As another key element in its overall global strategy to improve fuel economy and reduce oil consumption and CO2 emissions, General Motors Chairman Rick Wagoner announced today that GM will introduce a second-generation version of the GM Hybrid System with a new, more powerful lithium-ion battery.

Hitachi Vehicle Energy Ltd., a subsidiary of Tokyo-based Hitachi Ltd., will supply an advanced lithium-ion battery, which will help make the next-generation GM Hybrid System nearly three times more powerful than the system it replaces. Overall fuel economy improvements for cars and trucks using the system are expected to be up to 20 percent, depending on engine and vehicle application.

"This new system is another important step in our broad-based strategy to reduce vehicle fuel consumption and emissions," Wagoner said at the 78th International Geneva Motor Show.

The next-generation GM Hybrid System will build upon the successful belt-alternator-starter hybrid technology currently available in the Saturn Vue, Saturn Aura and Chevrolet Malibu. By building on this proven technology, Wagoner said, GM will be able to make the GM Hybrid System more cost-effective and expand its application in GM's global vehicle portfolio.

"In order to have a real impact in reducing oil consumption, oil imports, and CO2 emissions, advanced technologies must be affordable enough to drive high-volume applications," he said. "We plan to roll out this next-generation hybrid technology globally, across our brands and regions, starting in 2010 in North America, and we expect that volumes will eventually exceed 100,000 units annually."

The next-generation GM Hybrid System will complement GM's widely acclaimed Two-Mode Hybrid system as part of the company's advanced powertrain portfolio. The Two-Mode Hybrid system debuted in 2007 in the Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon, and will be offered this year in the Cadillac Escalade full-size SUV and the Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra full-size pickups. The first front-wheel-drive application of the Two-Mode Hybrid system will debut in the 2009 Saturn Vue Green Line.

The increased power from the lithium-ion battery will allow the next-generation GM Hybrid System to be used in a wide range of global powertrains, including naturally aspirated engines, new high-efficiency turbocharged engines, bio-fuel engines and diesels.

This technology is showcased in the Saab 9-X BioPower Hybrid concept car, which debuted today at the Geneva Motor Show. The Saab concept is capable of 117 g CO2/km, or projected fuel consumption of just 4.9 l/100 km (48 mpg) when running on gasoline over the combined cycle.

The next-generation GM Hybrid System helps optimize fuel efficiency and reduce emissions by:

Turning the engine off at idle
Offering brief electric-only propulsion
Using a more powerful electric motor to enhance engine efficiency
Extending fuel cutoff during deceleration
Extending regenerative braking to recapture more energy
Performing intelligent hybrid battery charging
For additional energy savings, an advanced six-speed automatic transmission also may be used, depending on the vehicle application.

The current GM Hybrid System was introduced in 2006 on the Saturn Vue Green Line SUV, which remains the lowest-priced hybrid SUV in the U.S., starting at a $25,995 MSRP. Shanghai GM announced in January that the Buick LaCrosse Eco-Hybrid sedan will be the first application for the current GM Hybrid System in Asia-Pacific.

By the end of 2008, GM will offer eight hybrid models in North America and nine worldwide. GM will introduce 16 new hybrid vehicles over the next four years.

Source: GM

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Mazda ASV-4 Advanced Safety Vehicle On Public Road Trials

We won't have flying cars any time soon, but Mazda is working to take us closer to the science-fiction "roads of tomorrow" nonetheless as on-road trials of its unassuming ASV-4 safety car begin in and around Hiroshima. It may not look like much, but the ASV-4 is a highly advanced bundle of technology. The Advanced Safety Vehicle (ASV) project is developing vehicle-to-vehicle communication technology that will allow a car to be aware of other cars in low-visibility situations. With a car that's able to warn the driver of other vehicles he or she might not see, the ASV-4 can help eliminate two-vehicle collisions.

Mazda plans to start testing the ASV-4 on public roads in Hiroshima this year. Sensors along the road can "talk" to the ASV-4 and inform the car of potential danger ahead. Mazda's trial is intended to explore the real-world feasibility of road-to-vehicle and vehicle-to-vehicle communications.

Mazda has not announced any plans beyond the public-road testing, but it's not a long step from a radar-based pre-collision system similar to those found in many luxury cars to a vehicle that can take over in an emergency and swerve away from an unexpected vehicle। The day when our cars can take action to avoid one another even when the driver isn't paying attention may be closer than you think.


Press Release

Mazda to Begin Public Road Trials of the Mazda ASV-4 Advanced Safety Vehicle
HIROSHIMA, Japan—Mazda Motor Corporation will commence public road trials of its advanced safety vehicle, Mazda ASV-4, in the Hiroshima area on March 11, 2008. The trials are based on the Advanced Safety Vehicle (ASV) Promotion Plan that was introduced by Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transportation (MLIT) to promote the development, practical application and wider use of ASV technologies aimed at reducing the number of traffic accidents. During the ASV Project’s Phase Four trials, Mazda will forge ahead with development of a safe driving support system that employs vehicle-to-vehicle communications.

In collaboration with other ASV project members in the Hiroshima area*1, Mazda will collect and analyze data to promote development of a safe driving support system. The system deploys safety technologies which utilize vehicle-to-vehicle communications to alert drivers of oncoming vehicles at blind intersections or on twisting roads with limited visibility. By reducing driver oversight or error, the system aims to mitigate two vehicle collisions at blind intersections, rear-end collisions and accidents when a vehicle performs right turns. Mazda plans to begin testing the two vehicle blind collision avoidance system in fiscal year 2007. Road trials of the right-turn and rear-end collision avoidance systems are set to commence in fiscal 2008.

The ASV project has been promoting the spread of safe driving to reduce traffic accidents through advanced technologies for over fifteen years since its inception by the MLIT in 1991. Mazda’s test results from Phase One to Phase Three have already resulted in the successful development of various advanced safety technologies. These include: a rear vehicle monitoring system that detects vehicles approaching from behind at highway speeds; and Mazda’s Precrash Safety System, which uses milliwave radar to monitor for oncoming obstacles, then alerts the driver and automatically applies the brakes if necessary. The Mazda ASV-4, part of the project’s fourth phase (2006 to 2010), will participate in the effort to promote the spread of ASV technologies and develop and implement a telecommunications-based safe driving support system to help reduce traffic accidents.

In January 2008, Mazda began trials to validate a new Intelligent Transport System (ITS)*2 as part of a consortium of local government, academia and industry in the Hiroshima area. The ITS consists of safe driving support technologies that link sensors installed along roadways to vehicles (road-to-vehicle communications) in order to detect potentially dangerous situations that the driver cannot see. By conducting the ASV public road trials in the same area as the ITS experiments, Mazda intends to evaluate the compatibility of the road-to-vehicle and vehicle-to-vehicle communication systems.

Mazda is dedicated to leveraging these road trial results, and its own research and development initiatives, to establish ITS and ASV technologies that can assist in reducing the number of traffic accidents and decrease the environmental burden caused by road traffic. Going forward, Mazda will continue to develop and evolve safety technologies that are helping to promote a sustainable transport environment for the future.

*1 Mitsubishi Motors Japan and Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd.
*2 A new traffic system that uses advanced telecommunications technology to create an information network between people, vehicles and the road infrastructure in order to solve transportation problems such as road accidents, traffic jams and damage to the environment.

Source: Mazda