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Mercedes-Benz G-Wagon LAPV 6.X Concept [Video]The new 2010 Mercedes-Benz G-Wagon LAPV 6.X Concept represents the latest in armored patrol vehicle technology and has made its debut at the recent EUROSATORY 2010 defense industry trade show.

2008 Saturn Astra

GM's preparations for bankruptcy means the company is looking to sell as many of its 'bad' assets as possible in order to raise capital and streamline operations. One of these is the Saturn brand, which the automaker confirmed would be sold by the end of the year and has already drawn several potential buyers.

One of those potential buyers is Roger Penske, the owner of the second-biggest U.S. dealer association Penske Automotive Group. Penske confirmed last month that he has an interest in the Saturn brand and recently his company hired ex-Chrysler president Tom LaSorda to advise on the bidding process.
more detail. ...


Few weeks ago we told you about the new world record that has been set by the Italian sports carmaker Ferrari for a car offered at an auction that earned 9 million Euros. The car sold was the 1957 Ferrari 250 Testarossa and the auction was held in Maranello, Italy.

"This year's Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance will be honouring the Bugatti marque and Gooding & Company is delighted to offer, without reserve, one of the most spectacular Bugattis ever built," said David Gooding, founder and president of Gooding & Company.

However, an extremely rare 1936 Bugatti Type 57C Coupe that is scheduled to be sold on auction at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance this year is expected to outdo the Testarossa. The reason for this anticipation is that this specific Bugatti model was particularly built for Ettore Bugatti, the founder of the brand, on the occasion of his birthday. The car was preserved through the Second World War and was personally owned by Ettore until 1947, the year of his demise. The Bugatti received a new powerplant and transmission in time. The model saw a few exchanges of ownership after it was sold in 1950 by the factory. The bodywork is totally original since it has never received any restoration work. The Gooding & Company auction firm will be taking care of the auction at the Pebble Beach event. Other models that will go on sale at the auction will include three of America’s significant past racing cars: the Denis ‘Denny’ Hulme 1967 AAR Gurney Eagl Indy Car, the Mario Andretti 1964 Dean Van Line Roaster Indy Car and the 1909 Stoddard-Dayton Model K Re-creation.

Other notable cars that will go on auction in Pebble Beach between 15 and 16 August are from the The Don Lyons Collection of historical American racing cars spanning 100 years. They include:

* The Denis "Denny" Hulme 1967 AAR Gurney Eagle Indy Car
* The Mario Andretti 1964 Dean Van Lines Roadster Indy Car, "The Lightweight Weight Roadster"
* The Jim Hurtubise 1966 Gerhard-Offy Indy Car
* 1909 Stoddard-Dayton Model K Re-creation
* The Mario Andretti 1985 Lola Indy Car, Andretti's famous "Spin and Win" Car
* The Lujie Lesovsky 1951 Blue Crown Spark Plug Special Indy Car

Note: The FoMoCo 1967 Super Mustang Top Fuel Dragster is not included in the picture

via:WorldCarFans 4wheelsnews


Renault has released more details on its new Megane Estate wagon, which made its world debut back in March at the Geneva Motor Show and is set to go on sale in Europe later this month. The new Estate distinguishes itself from the standard Megane hatch with its greater carrying capacity, extended wheelbase and longer rear overhang.

The Megane Estate features identical frontal styling to that of the hatchback version, however the side and rear have been modified to make the car's longer appearance look more in proportion. Trunk space measures in at 524L but fold down the rear seats and this expands by an additional 119L.

In terms of engines, the Estate comes with a full range of engine choices, including both petrol and diesel powerplants. The petrol engine line-up comprises five powertrains, including the new TCe 130 engine which is available from launch. Economy is the focus of this 1.4L unit, and Renault claims that it "boasts the torque of a 2L engine and the power of a 1.8, yet its CO2 emissions are less than those of a 1.6."


The Megane Estate can also be ordered with 100hp (75kW) and 110hp (82kW) 1.6L petrol engines that drive through manual gearboxes, while a 2.0L petrol engine mated to an automatic transmission is also available.

The diesels are available in a number of different guises - the 1.5 litre dCi engine comes in a choice of three power outputs, with or without a particulate filter (dCi 86, dCi 106 and dCi 110 FAP). All the diesel engines feature relatively low levels of carbon emissions (just 118g/km for the dCi 86 and 120g/km for the dCi 106) and should prove popular with those watching their carbon footprints.

The diesel engine range is topped by the 2.0 dCi which is available in a choice of power outputs, ranging from 140hp (104kW) to 160hp (120kW).

2010 Renault Megane Sport Tourer wagon


Source:motorauthority

Coda Automtoive electric vehicle sedan 2012

A California upstart plans to bring an all-electric sedan to market by the end of 2010. Coda Automotive will initially sell the 100 mile range car only in California, for a $45,000 pricetag.

Many details about the car were given, except for a few important ones: we have no idea what the vehicle's top speed and power ratings are. When piloting the car, the driver's job will be made easier with anti-lock brakes, and electronic stability control. Next-generation airbags will keep everybody safe, but without wasting money: the airbags only fire when an occupant is near them.

Coda Automtoive electric vehicle sedan 2012

Coda's sedan, which may simply be called the "Coda", comes with a lot of standard goodies as well. Coming standard is a sat-nav system, satellite radio, iPod dock, USB port, security system, Bluetooth, a driving efficency monitor, and power windows, locks, & side mirrors.

Also included standard are aluminum wheels, just about the only distinguishing feature on this somewhat bland car. With no grille, the smooth, front end seems to be missing a styling point we're so used to seeing. The boxy shape up front also makes us wonder if more effort should have been put into the aerodynamics, possibly increasing the range.

Coda Automtoive electric vehicle sedan 2012

Still, the driver will be able to take this car out at highway speeds, and should get an average of 100 miles before needing a recharge. A full recharge at 220v will take about six hours. Passengers appear to have enough space to ride comfortably. The manufacturer claims the four-door can seat five.

But just how much will this car actually save you in running costs? Coda estimates a cost of about $3 per 100 miles. Comparatively, a Toyota Corolla in California costs roughly $8.80 for the same distance. A sedan running at 20 mpg would cost around $13.2 for that distance, using the three-week average petrol price of $2.64/gallon in California.

Coda Automtoive electric vehicle sedan 2012

Coda also points out the lack of need for oil changes, while a reduction in moving parts translates to less wear and tear. However, with electric vehicles being so new, new "routine maintenances" could eventually take the place of what we are accustomed to.

Power comes from lithium-ion batteries produced through an existing agreement with China-based Lishen. These two companies have also agreed to expand their partnership to "design, manufacture and sell transportation and utility power storage battery systems," presumably to other automakers looking for an easier entry into the electric vehicle market.

Coda Automtoive electric vehicle sedan 2012

Lishen also makes lithium-ion batteries for Apple, Motorola, Samsung, and Vodafone.

The actual vehicle manufacturing will be carried out by the Chinese state-run company Hafei. Hafei produces 200,000 vehicles annually, and claims to have delivered over a million vehicles throughout its history. By outsourcing much of their operations, Coda hopes to avoid the pitfalls faced by the current American automakers.

Those interested in purchasing a Coda need to register at www.codaautomotive.com. Although potential customers have an initial $45,000 pricetag, they should qualify for roughtly $7,500 in tax credits and incentives to bring the total price down to $37,500.


Press Release

Coda Automotive Unveils Mainstream All-Electric Sedan

Announces Global JV with Lishen to Develop Automotive Grade Battery Systems

SANTA MONICA, Calif. -- Coda Automotive, formed and developed under the stewardship of entrepreneur Miles Rubin (known for his marketing and sales of low-speed, electric fleet vehicles under the Miles Electric Vehicles brand), today announced that it will be introducing an affordable, full performance all-electric sedan to the mainstream California market in 2010. Additionally, the company, which has an existing long-term sourcing contract with Tianjin Lishen Battery Joint-Stock Co., Ltd., (Lishen) for lithium-ion batteries used in the Coda, announced the establishment of a global joint venture with Lishen to design, manufacture and sell transportation and utility power storage battery systems.

As a new automotive company, Coda Automotive's focus will be on branding, designing and manufacturing fully safety compliant, all-electric cars capable of mainstream performance and highway use. Scheduled for delivery in the fall of 2010 in California, the four-door, five-passenger, fully-equipped mid-size Coda sedan will be available for $45,000 (mid-$30,000s after including a $7,500 Federal tax credit and additional state incentives). Powered by a 333V lithium-ion battery with a real-world range of 90 to 120 miles depending on individual driving habits, the Coda sedan travels far enough between charges to satisfy 94% of daily driving routines. The onboard charger plugs into any 110 or 220V standard outlet and completes a full charge in less than six hours at a 220V service. Charging the battery for a 40-mile commute can be completed in two hours.

"The Coda sedan is an all-electric vehicle for everyone," said Kevin Czinger, President and CEO, Coda Automotive. "It's a practical revolution for real drivers who need reliable transportation."

The battery system is the chief enabling technology for electric cars and Coda has established its strategic position in the development and commercialization of automotive grade battery systems through the joint venture with Lishen. Lishen is one of the world's largest manufacturers of lithium-ion cells and a key supplier to Apple, Motorola, Samsung and Vodafone, among others. The joint venture's manufacturing facility is located within Lishen's existing manufacturing complex in Tianjin, China, thus accelerating the company's ability to commercialize the battery system and bring an all-electric car to the mass market. Plans have been made to establish capacity in the U.S. in partnership with a U.S. battery company.

"The uncertainty of battery supply is an issue that plagues many electric vehicle manufacturers today," explains Czinger. "This long-term agreement has enabled us to design an integrated battery system with an existing world-class partner with mass manufacturing capacity. That enables us to rapidly industrialize Coda's power system for commercial volume production and to scale the business. Eventually, we expect to manufacture batteries in the U.S."

Coda's internal team, along with specialized U.S. and European engineering partners, oversee the manufacturing process to ensure that Coda vehicles are built to Western safety specifications and market expectations. This includes vehicle body design, safety engineering, the design and engineering of the battery pack, battery management system and power electronics, and additional engineering to integrate an electric vehicle drivetrain (comprised primarily of Tier 1 U.S.-based supplier components) into the chassis. The Coda sedan is engineered to be FMVSS complaint, and based on existing crash test results the company expects a four or five-Star NCAP crash rating.

Coda Automotive employs a creative, open and flexible variable cost/low capital expenditure business model. The company has a core team of engineers who work with a network of top-tier partners that provide engineering services and components. The company controls brand, design and IP while teaming with established large-scale manufacturers and assemblers to avoid the most capital intensive aspect of the car business. Coda's manufacturing partner, Hafei, is an established state-owned Chinese manufacturer of automobiles and airplanes and has delivered more than one-million vehicles and currently produces two-hundred thousand vehicles per year.

Featuring a fraction of the moving parts of a gas-powered vehicle, the Coda sedan is less susceptible to wear-and-tear and never requires an oil change. The company estimates that it will cost less than $3, on average, to drive 100 miles. A comparable gas-powered sedan that gets 20 mpg costs about $17 per 100 miles. Driving a Coda equates to over $2,000 in operation and maintenance savings per year at normal driving rates -- that's $20,000 in savings over a ten year period.

The Coda sedan is fully-equipped for comfort, convenience and safety. Factory-standard equipment includes a telematics package, navigation with turn-by-turn directions, a "green screen" that monitors driving efficiency, roadside assistance with an emergency button, a Bluetooth system with an embedded microphone, AM/FM/XM radio with Sirius satellite capability, iPod dock, MP3/USB connectivity, security system, aluminum wheels, and power windows, doors and mirrors. Safety equipment includes anti-lock brakes with electronic stability control and advanced airbags with an occupant detection system. The vehicle is backed by a three-year/36,000 mile warranty.

Coda Automotive employs a direct distribution model, and will sell the vehicle only in the state of California initially. Coda will also perform the vehicle's maintenance and service through an outsourced network comprised of brand name car service partners. Customers interested in purchasing a Coda can register their interest on the new Coda website at www.codaautomotive.com. The company will contact interested customers on a first come, first served basis later this year.

For more information, please visit www.codaautomotive.com.

About Coda Automotive: Headquartered in Santa Monica, Calif., Coda Automotive is a manufacturer and distributor of all-electric, highway capable vehicles. Launched in June 2009, the company brands, designs, markets and distributes electric vehicles utilizing a manufacturing partnership strategy which allows Coda Automotive to develop vehicles rapidly in a flexible manner -- avoiding the traditionally capital-intensive nature of the automobile business. Coda Automotive's first vehicle, the Coda sedan, will be delivered in the fall of 2010.
via:World Car Fans



Following the success of the previous edition, the organizers of the famous race have decided that the 2010 Dakar Rally will also be held in Argentina. The 2010 Dakar Rally will begin in Buenos Aires and will include stages that will take place in Argentina and Chile.

The 2010 Dakar Rally will be the 32nd one and will begin on Friday 1st of January and it's final stage will end in the capital on Sunday 17th January.

The 2010 Dakar Rally will be an important event with forty-nine countries which announced their participation, 3 million spectators and 2.2 billion TV viewers.
via:zercustoms


Normally we take some amusement in super car infernos, but this McLaren F1 fire in Santa Rosa, California makes us sick to our stomachs. A marvelous thoroughbred shouldn't die like this, never like this.

It happened yesterday, when the owner took it out after six months of storage and an onlooker alerted the owner to smoke coming from the engine bay. The fire spread quickly and consumed the carbon fiber body work and 6.0 liter BMW V12 with horrifying efficiency. The car was a total loss, valued at $2 million and insured for $3 million, but the financial implications are nothing compared to losing one of these rare gems.


Actually, this scenario is not unknown with McLaren F1, although this is an extreme case. We know of one McLaren F1, owned at the time by a UK Ferrari dealer, which was taken for a test drive by the prospective new owner. Exactly the same thing happened to him, and that car hadn’t been driven in anger for six months either. It seems that after a period of being idle the manifolds on the F1 are prone to overheating, and a dose of enthusiastic driving is enough to cause extreme overheating of the manifolds. Best case scenario is a lot of smoke and an expensive fix. Worst case scenario is Irv’s!

Irv told the fire crew that the car was worth $2 million, but was insured for $3 million. Something tells me his insurance company might take the lower figure in any settlement!
via jalopnik carsuk

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New 5008 comes with a host of options and will go on sale later in the fall of this year.
More Photos


Press Release

With the 5008, Peugeot has created a new interpretation of the compact people carrier. This new model combines all the manufacturer's key values but also builds further on the benefits expected by customers in this segment without any adverse effect on the vehicle's road holding. The 5008 also introduces a range of cutting edge technologies to further enhance comfort, convenience and driving safety. As a result, the 5008 aims to set new benchmarks in the market for compact people carriers.

Peugeot expands its market coverage in the M1 segment

The 5008, after the 3008 crossover, is Peugeot's second new product offering in the large M1 vehicle segment. This compact five to seven seater people carrier offers a number of significant benefits that will enhance and strengthen Peugeot's presence in the family car market. After the 308 SW and the recent 3008 crossover, the 5008, with a length of 4.53 m and a height of 1.64 m, is a natural extension to Peugeot's current offerings in the M1 segment.

An aerodynamic and elegantly styled people carrier

In terms of exterior style, the 5008 stands out with its balanced and particularly distinctive profile. Its aerodynamic styling (Cx of 0.29 and Scx of 0.77) is akin to that of the TGV high-speed train. It evokes fluidity and driveability of the very highest order.
The front of the car with its attractive profiled headlamps, steeply plunging bonnet which extends backwards towards the large front windscreen which is level with the front wheels, seems to be designed to penetrate through the air in the most efficient way.

The natural fluidity emanating from the 5008 is further enhanced by the chrome detailing decorating the front grille that gives the car an elegant and luxurious appeal. The design of the vehicle's sides both pure and smooth, create an impression of movement, while the high waist line inspires safety.

The large glazed surface area seems to encircle the entire car without any interruption, a feature due in particular to the specific design of the large rear quarter panel windows which blend into the rear tailgate glass. This provides a bright and pleasant passenger compartment ambience for the benefit of all the occupants, not least the rear passengers who also receive the full benefit of the extra light provided by the large panoramic glass roof.

The vehicle's profile reveals an elegant styling line which starts at the level of the rear door, becomes more accentuated on the wing and then passes around to the rear of the 5008. This feature adds a further touch of dynamism to the side profile and gives character to the design of the tailgate of the 5008.

The stylish design of the rear lights and their light-guide technology, give the car its visual signature. The impression created by the car's rear aspect is one of purity, robustness and status. The design of the tailgate hints at easy access to the boot, an essential quality for a family car.

This new style is based on an original interpretation of a compact people carrier, where a dynamic exterior styling combines harmoniously with a large interior capacity.

A luxurious interior designed for driving pleasure

The driver's seat of the 5008 is undeniably original and innovative in the world of the people carrier. The raised driving position typical of this segment gives the driver excellent visibility and a real feeling of safety.

The designers of the car have succeeded in enhancing the ergonomics of the driving position, thanks firstly to the quality of the seats, and secondly to the steep vertical angle of inclination of the steering wheel, identical to that of the 308 hatchback. The driving position therefore provides the driver with good control and comfort, while at the same time retaining a raised position
and the sense of dominating the road.

Equipped with a number of avant-garde technologies such as a head-up display, and featuring high-quality, luxurious materials, the design of the driver's seat supports the theme of innovative and driving pleasure present in every detail of the 5008.

Focused around the needs of the driver, the instrument panel is further extended by the design of the elegant centre console with its flowing design. The inclined front of the fascia panel is designed to be in harmony with that of the dynamic exterior profile, creating an impressive feeling of overall space.

The advanced ergonomics of the controls, all easily accessible, link the 5008 to the range of Peugeot's range of current passenger vehicles.

A bright and very spacious interior

The area of the wide front windscreen (1.70 m2) is increased even further by the large panoramic glass roof (1.69 m2), one of the largest in the Peugeot range. As a result, passengers benefit from a bright interior and an exceptional panoramic view of the outside. Adding the side windows, the rear quarter panel windows and the rear windscreen, the glazed surface area totals 5.77 m2.

Spacious is certainly no understatement when it comes to describing the interior of the 5008. For example, elbow width is 1476 mm at the front and 1520 mm in the second row, with its three individual seats of equal width. In the third row, where two adult passengers can be seated, this value is 1341 mm.

Leg room is just as generous, as is headroom, which means that tall passengers can be accommodated without difficulty.

For passengers wishing to optimise their seating position, the three seats in the second row are equipped with two seat back tilting positions and can slide individually over a length of 130 mm. With regards to modularity, this makes it possible to increase the capacity of the rear load area or provide slightly more space for the third row occupants.

Exemplary modularity

The modularity of the 5008 is of the highest order within its segment. The second row comprises three seats of equal width, which can be adjusted lengthwise and feature reclining seat backs for optimal comfort. They can also be folded individually into the passenger compartment floor to form a perfectly flat surface perfectly aligned with the rear loading sill. Bearing in mind that the front passenger seat can also be folded flat into a "shelf configuration", it is therefore possible to load long objects as far as the fascia panel. The effective load length in this configuration (all seats folded away and the front passenger seat folded flat in the shelf position) is 2.76 m.

The ‘cinema' positioning of the second row outer seats allows easy access to the occupants of the third row seats. In one easy movement, the seat cushion lifts and the seat back moves forward, freeing up the maximum space for those wishing to get into the car.

This advanced modularity is also in evidence in the third row, where the two full size seats fold individually into the rear floor.

The interior of the 5008 therefore offers multiple possibilities in terms of layout, enabling it to meet the needs of all occupants in real style.

A large boot volume

The boot of the 5008 is very practical and easy to use thanks to its rectangular shape. Depending on the position of the sliding rear seats, it offers a generous capacity, ranging from 758 litres to 823 litres (or 579 to 678 dm3 according to the VDA 210 standard) under the parcel shelf with the third row seats folded away. The boot of the 5008 offers one of the best load volumes in the segment.

This capacity increases to 1247 litres when the rear parcel shelf is removed and the vehicle is loaded to the roof and can further increase to 2506 litres with the second row seats folded away as well.

For families who are always in search of extra space, particularly when going off on holiday, the numerous storage spaces on both sides of the passenger compartment can easily accommodate the different requirements of its passengers. At the front, particularly large door pockets supplement the space provided by the glove box, the storage area under the steering wheel, and the ingenious design of the ‘ventilated' centre console with a capacity of 10.5 litres. Inside the latter it is possible to store all kinds of objects, in particular two half-litre bottles. Depending on the car's standard equipment levels, within the storage area an auxiliary connector (jack or USB), allows the connection and storage of a mobile music player well out of the sight of prying eyes.

At the rear, passengers can use the storage areas in the floor as well as the rear door pockets, all of which are very accessible.

Other storage spaces for sundry items are also available throughout the passenger compartment for the use of the driver and passengers, including those in the third row.

Finally, 60 litres of storage space is available in the five seat version under the rear load area carpet, confirmation that every space has been exploited to the full to offer superb practicality in day to day use.

Comfort in all seats

Its vast interior, roomy and modular, is also particularly comfortable.

All passengers will appreciate the comfort provided by all of the seats. For example, particular attention has been paid to the third row occupants of to ensure that they can enjoy a level of comfort, safety and space comparable to that of the other seats. For example, special storage spaces have been installed, while the large rear quarter panel windows can be equipped with retractable sun blinds (as in the second row). Occupants are also protected by the curtain air bag which extends rearwards as far as the third row. Finally, the vehicle's low exterior noise levels enable the occupants in the third row to converse easily with the front passengers without having to raise their voice.

Because their seats are not directly in line with those in the front the third row occupants also benefit from an unrestricted forward vision, further confirmation that these are real seats and not additional seats for occasional use only.

To make the journey as comfortable as possible, ventilation units, whose intensity can be adjusted by the second row passengers, provide air-conditioned air rearwards through air vents located in the side pillars. All seats therefore also benefit from a high level of thermal comfort.

The rear multimedia system

To make long journeys more enjoyable, the 5008 offers second row passengers a multimedia system which is perfectly integrated into the passenger compartment.

It consists of two 7'' colour screens located in the front seat head restraints, a connection console to connect different types of mobile audio/video equipment (video console, games consoles, DVD player, etc) and two Bluetooth wireless headsets. This wireless technology is particularly efficient in terms of sound quality. It transmits the audio signal regardless of the position of the headset. A third headset can be purchased as an accessory and used simultaneously.

It is also possible to connect two video sources simultaneously, making each screen independent in terms of the image being shown. Thus the rear passengers can choose to watch the same programme on both screens or enjoy two different activities. While one passenger plays a computer game for example, the other screen can show a cartoon, a film, video clips, etc.
In short, everything has been designed to offer maximum comfort and convenience in a roomy passenger compartment offering a superb level of modularity.

Avant-garde technologies for enhanced safety

The 5008 sets new standards in terms of safety and driving comfort with the introduction of new and innovative technologies into the compact people carrier segment.

• The Head-Up Display is a device borrowed from the cockpits of fighter aircraft! It provides essential driving information (speed, cruise control/speed limiter and distance alert) via a translucent panel which extends from the top of the instrument panel. The driver can then see this information as though it was being projected on to the windscreen, and therefore does not have to take his eyes from the road to stay informed. This equipment, innovative at this level of the market, offers real gains in terms of primary safety as well as driving convenience.

• The Distance Alert is a technology which helps the driver to comply with safe distance. A radar located behind the lower front bumper panel measures the time in seconds between the vehicle in front and then transmits this data to the head-up display. The alert system, which can be set between 0.9 s and 2.5 s by means of toggle switches located on the fascia panel, informs the driver if he is driving too close to the car in front. Since this equipment is non-intrusive, the driver remains in control of the
vehicle at all times. This system, once again, is not usually found on this level vehicle. It also efficiently complements the speed limiter and cruise control in terms of safety.

• Snow Motion is an intelligent traction control system. It adds a further function to a traditional traction control system, allowing the driver to move off and make effective progress on icy or snow-covered roads. This original management of the ASR is activated automatically and is naturally even more efficient when combined with snow tyres.

• A head / curtain air bag covering all three rows of seats is available on seven seat versions. Operating with a single generator, it is activated at the same time as the side air bags to optimise the safety of occupants. All rows are therefore effectively protected.

• ESP fitted as standard, six air bags, automatic electric parking brake with ‘hill assist' function, fasten seat belt warnings on all seats, tyre under-inflation detection, etc. The 5008 benefits from a comprehensive range of safety equipment designed to enhance comfort, convenience and driveability.

Exceptional dynamic road holding at no cost to comfort

The 5008 also aims to become a new benchmark in the compact people carrier segment in terms of driving enjoyment thanks to its exceptional road holding, worthy of the best Peugeot passenger cars, and its high-performance suspension.

Development of the 5008 suspension reflects all of Peugeot's know-how in this field. First of all, the exceptional body rigidity for this type of vehicle (0.69 mrad), not only enhances the car's exceptional road holding but also reduces vibrations.

Next, the front suspension, a pseudo McPherson type assembly with a drop link anti-roll bar derived from the 308, a benchmark in terms of driving dynamics.

The rear suspension with its rear torsion beam has been derived also from the Group's platform two vehicles, but is specially adapted for this type of vehicle.

The Peugeot engineers have worked hard to give the 5008 safe and efficient road holding comparable to that of a saloon car, whilst at the same time maintaining the high level of comfort and convenience expected by people carrier users.

In addition to the fine-tuning of the car's suspension, tyres with a low rolling resistance have also been specially developed in 16'' and 17'' versions, while 18'' tyres are available to devotees of more ‘sporty' driving. Large brakes (302 mm for the most powerful versions) guarantee highly efficient braking, while directional control, one of Peugeot's key values, is assured by an electro-hydraulic pump unit.

The results are exceptional and will be appreciated by all passengers, including those in the third row, who have been given the same consideration as the car's other occupants.

This blend of comfort and road holding is one of the key character traits of the 5008.

A comprehensive range of environmentally-friendly engines

At the time of its launch, the 5008 will be available with six latest-generation engines. They will combine perfectly with the dynamic styling of this new people carrier. Combining performance and fuel economy, these engines also offer reduced levels of CO2 emissions together with great driveability.

Two petrol engines will be available at the time of launch:

• 1.6 litre VTi 120 bhp BVM5 Euro 5 -7.3 litres/100 km and 169 g/km CO2 in the combined cycle*

• 1.6 litre VTi 156 bhp BVM5 Euro 5 -7.1 litres/100 km and 167 g/km CO2 in the combined cycle*

Four diesel engines will be available:

• 1.6 litre HDi FAP 110 bhp BVM6 - 5.4 litres/100 km and 143 g/km CO2 in the combined cycle*

• 1.6 litre HDi FAP 110 bhp BMP6 5.2 litres/100 km and 135 g/km CO2 in the combined cycle*

• 2.0 litre HDi FAP 150 bhp BVM6 Euro 5- 5.8 litres/100 km and 151 g/km CO2 in the combined cycle*

• 2.0 litre HDi FAP 163 bhp BVA6 Euro 5- 6.8 litres/100 km and 178 g/km CO2 in the combined cycle*

* pending approval.


Latest-generation equipment to assist the driver

To facilitate driving on a daily basis, the 5008 is also equipped with a range of useful technological equipment such as front and rear park assist and an innovative system which measures available parking space.

This function, controlled by two sensors located on the sides of the front bumper, provides a visual indication on the multifunction display of the possibility of parking in a free space and the level of difficulty of the manoeuvre to be carried out.

A high-tech multimedia offer

The 5008 incorporates the very latest innovations in Peugeot's telematics range, called WIP (World In Peugeot). WIP Sound constitutes the basic offer and provides an MP3 compatible mono CD radio with a jack type auxiliary connector located in the central storage console.

This system if required can be supplemented by a Bluetooth hands-free kit and a USB connection with the WIP Connect option.

Two satellite-navigation systems are available on the 5008:

• WIP Nav is the entry level system with its large 7'', 16/9 retractable colour display perfectly integrated in the fascia panel. The cartography, including 30 European countries, is stored on an SD card and can be displayed in ‘bird view' mode. This specification also offers a Bluetooth hands-free kit and an MP3 mono CD radio with auxiliary connector.

• WIP COM 3D, the top of the range offer, incorporates the very latest technologies in the field: a high-definition retractable 7'' 16/9 colour display, 3D European cartography stored on a 30 GB hard disc, location for SD memory card, DVD player, USB and audio/video auxiliary connector, jukebox function, Bluetooth hands-free kit, etc. A GSM module with SIM card slot provides access not only to telephone functions but also to the reassuring Peugeot Emergency Service which alerts the emergency
services in the event of an incident.

Lastly, for hi-fi enthusiasts, a JBL HiFi option is available. This comprises six speakers, a 240 W amplifier and a bass cabinet, all perfectly integrated in the passenger compartment.

5008, following the logic of Peugeot car names

The number 5 of the 5008 carries echoes of the manufacturer's past in the field of family vehicles, while the central double zero uses the designation specific to vehicles with a tall architecture and a raised driving position, extending the traditional Peugeot range. For its part, the 8 specifies the generation to which the new model belongs.

Official presentation at the Frankfurt Motor Show

The 5008 will receive its world premiere at this year's Frankfurt Motor Show and will be placed on the market during the autumn of 2009.




Electric drivetrain aside, the Tesla Roadster isn't the most practical sports car on the market. Like its Lotus counterpart, the Roadster is lacking space for both passengers and parcel, something Tesla CEO Elon Musk is all-too-happy to admit. But as you'd expect from the plucky upstart and its confident chief executive, Tesla has big plans to expand beyond the Roadster and Model S sedan, and it's got the Porsche 911 in its sights.


Although we've known for some time that Tesla plans to base future models on the Model S platform – ranging from a base model to a full-fledged GT – the automaker's been tight-lipped about the specifics of future sports cars. However, Musk let it slip during an interview that a 911 Turbo shares a space in his garage with a Roadster, and he loves its ability to schlep the kiddies to school in its diminutive back seats.



Inspired, Musk said that the next Tesla sports car would be a 2+2, boasting 10% more room for rear-seat passengers and 50% more trunk space than the 911, along with all-wheel drive. Additionally, the Model S' flat architecture means that styling won't be completely influenced by the drivetrain, allowing for "greater functionality with avant garde, aggressive" styling. Although this new coupe's future is largely dependent on the success of the Model S, if Tesla can keep the lights on and continue R&D, we might see the GT as early as 2012 or 2013.
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Enters Guinness World Records for largest playable environment in a console game



Thanks to brand new technology, Codemasters racing game ‘Fuel' has entered the Guinness World Records as the largest playable environment in a console game at 5,560 square miles (14,400km), featuring rivers, deserts, forests and mountains. Whatever you can see on screen, you can get there. Available to play and explore on 5th June 2009.
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McLaren is considering scrapping the 2009 season and turning its full attention and resources to next year.

"That is one of the possibilities, but we haven't yet arrived at that point," team boss Martin Whitmarsh said in an interview with Spain's El Pais.

"We are still going to all the races with the intention to win. Giving up is not our style," the Briton added.

However, defending champion Lewis Hamilton is already a massive 42 points behind drivers' title leader Jenson Button.

The Mercedes-powered team, meanwhile, acknowledges that the MP4-24 is not going to shine at aerodynamically-demanding circuits like the forthcoming Turkish venue.

"Perhaps for formula one it is not bad that Ferrari and McLaren are struggling, as it demonstrates that winning in this sport is very difficult," Whitmarsh said.

He applauds the success of the new Brawn GP entry, but points out that the team's car is based on former owner Honda's 2008 efforts comprising "four wind tunnels and hundreds of millions of euros".

Whitmarsh also pointed out the contribution of the 'double diffuser' controversy.
Source:GMM via World Car Fans


Over the last several years, and until General Motors' finances dictated that the Saturn brand had to be dispensed with entirely, it had become the North American outlet for Opel vehicles.


Aside from the Outlook, all of Saturn's current models are based on their Opel equivalents. The most recent speculation about Saturn's fate had the dealer network being taken over by Roger Penske with a future vehicle supply coming from Renault via its South Korean subsidiary.


With this weekend's agreement in principle that supplier Magna International would take over control Opel, those speculative plans could be about to change. Magna chairman Frank Stronach told the Globe and Mail he wants to see Opel vehicles built in Canada.


While Penske -- or any other Saturn suitor -- might have preferred to source future vehicles from Opel, getting them from Europe would prohibitively expensive with a weak dollar. However, if vehicles are sourced from a Canadian facility, it could become a viable prospect.


The problem is Magna doesn't have a car assembly plant in Canada, but several Canadian plants are either scheduled to close or are without future product commitments, so Magna could end up buying a factory like the Oshawa truck plant from GM or even Chrysler.
via:autoblog



Luxury tuning houses are no rare sight in the automotive world, especially in the UK where companies such as Project Kahn specialize in upgrading exotic models with both aerodynamic and mechanical modifications. Now, a new tuner by the name of Revere London is trying to get in on the luxury tuning action, and to prove that it can take on the already established houses it has just unveiled its first project - a heavily modified Range Rover Sport.

A number of modifications are available for the Range Rover Sport, including an aggressive new bodykit that gives the SUV some edge over the standard model. Up front, there is a custom Revere London front bumper that gives the appearance that the vehicle is sitting lower to the ground. There is also a new front grille, as well as color-coded side vents. At the rear, a custom bumper with tailpipe box replacements is also available.
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Remember the Bailey Blade coupe being created by Neal Bailey in his Texas garage? Not only is Neal still at it, but he tells us he'll have at least one, possibly three, prototypes ready for testing in October. That's a big change in status from the last time we checked in on Neal in November. Back then he was having serious funding problems but was keeping the dream alive by soliciting small investments from enthusiasts.


Seven months later, things are much sunnier for what's now known as BXR Motors. Neal has moved the project out of his garage to a much larger facility at MotorSport Ranch in Cresson, Texas; hired a consultant to help work out a business plan; and, most importantly, attracted a private investor, which has allowed Neal to focus on the car's development full-time.


Getting an investor has not changed development process of the Blade at all," Neal told us via email. "However, developing a business plan and strategy has greatly educated us in the world of business and venture capital investments. There is a great deal to learn as developing a business plan like this is almost as difficult as developing the car itself.


The business plan and marketing strategy has helped us to focus on making sure that we succeed. It forces you to take a deeper look into the project and apply real numbers to see if this dream will produce real profits. As for pressure from our investor, there has been little involvement. The investor has seen our plan and the engineering behind it and simply wants us to succeed.


Neal says with the investor's funding, he has confidence he'll have at least one -- hopefully three -- Blade prototypes ready by October for road testing. Neal has stayed true to the original design, applying just a few tweaks to update the look.


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The marque's faithful (read: the obscenely wealthy) have been waiting a long time for a convertible Bugatti.


The last time a roadster rolled out of Molsheim was in the company's heyday before WWII, and despite our teenage fantasies, no roofless EB110 ever materialized from the Romano Artioli era. But after over a half century's wait, Bugatti has officially returned to the world of open-air motoring.


The most exclusive of exclusive automakers came to Pebble Beach last year with the Veyron Grand Sport, and auctioned off the first example for a whopping $2.19 million.
Now the targa-topped Veyron is officially beginning its production run, with deliveries to commence in July.


If you're one of those who's been waiting for the opportunity, good economy or bad, you'd better act quickly: Bugatti is only making 150 examples of the world's fastest roadster, with the first 50 units going to existing Veyron owners.


Asking price, before the inevitable succession of special editions, is nearly $2 million, which ought to make your eyes water even more than the air kissing your face at 224 mph.
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