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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.

Video: Fiat 500 Cabrio introduced at global sales milestone

发表者 ddgg 6/27/09

　
The announcement of the 500's international sales success came at the market introduction of its convertible version, the 500 C, which goes on sale next month in Italy, France and the UK, with more markets to follow. We've loaded a whole new crop of high-resolution images into the gallery below, and posted a video after the jump to satiate all your quaint Italian cabrio fantasies, so enjoy.


The model in question, it should come as no great surprise, is the 500, with 54% of sales currently take place outside its home market. The retro hatchback has been selling like hotcakes in every locale it's been introduced, and is slated to come Stateside within a couple of years.


With the rampant acquisition streak Fiat's embarked on, the Italian automaker has clearly emerged as a power-broker in the global automotive industry. The auto group has always been strongest in its home market, but with the ink on the Chrysler deal still wet and more mergers and acquisitions looming on the horizon, Fiat has reached a new milestone: for the first time in the company's history, it's sold more of one model outside of Italy than within.
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Arden MINI Equipe Limited Edition Revealed

发表者 ddgg

Arden MINI Equipe

German tuner of British cars, Arden, has created a new special edition MINI to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Equipe.

Arden MINI Equipe

Dubbed the MINI Equipe 2009, the special edition features a thoroughly revised exterior with 18-inch aluminum wheels, a chrome grille, and a stainless steel mesh insert for the rear bumper. Inside, the Equipe boasts a unique two-tone interior with hand-stitched leather on the dash board, seats, doors and steering wheel.

Arden MINI Equipe

Under the hood, Arden equips the Equipe with revised engine electronics, a new intercooler, and a stainless steel exhaust system with racing catalytic converters. These modest changes help to boost the engine's output by 40PS and 50Nm. Other performance upgrades include an Arden sport suspension and a high-performance braking system with six-piston calipers up front.

Arden MINI Equipe

Although pricing information wasn't released, production will be limited to 40 units.

Arden MINI Equipe
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Press Release

Arden goes MINI. As a tribute to the legendary victory of the Equipe Arden 1969 Arden created the 40th Anniversary MINI Equipe 2009 as a limited release for the lovers of high quality materials, technical innovations and racing tradition. 40 pieces signed by Jochen Arden will be manufactured in artisanal tradition of automobile passion. Each Arden MINI Equipe is unique, each piece a collector's item.

The dash board, seats and doors completely enclosed in leather combine sportiness and luxury. The new Arden 2-Tone Design extends over each interior element. Besides hand-stitched and newly revised casings the MINI offers also new approaches in terms of performance and exterior design. Handmade stainless steel and chrome grille adorn the front and rear of the smallest Arden. Extremely light 6.9 kilograms Arden Gram-light aluminum wheels in 8Jx18Zoll provide the necessary grip and reduce the vehicle weight by a few kilograms. The engine also received a manual work-over. The revised engine electronics, a new intercooler and a complete stainless steel exhaust system with racing catalytic converters give the MINI a performance gain of approximately 50nm and 40PS. A nice side effect is the robust sound which clearly says, I am more than a standard MINI.

To keep the performance on track, there is a special Arden sport suspension which lowers the vehicle's height and focus for about 30mm. High-performance 6-piston brakes at the front axle, guarantee for the necessary delay and remain stable and dosable even after a long, hard and resistant strain.

With the Arden Mini Equipe we offer a complete vehicle in the premium segment with luxury genes that in terms of exclusivity, comfort and sportiness leaves no wishes unfulfilled.

In order to fulfill your dreams, you can call our team for an individual consultation or a quote. Please, visit us in Krefeld and experience the Arden Mini Equipe feeling!

Arden - Automobile passion since 1972.

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Renault Releases World Series Special Edition Clio and Megane Models by UK

发表者 ddgg

Renault Clio and Megane World Series Special Edition with R27

Renault has announced two new special editions, according to a company press release. The Renault Clio World Series and Renault Megane World Series will be shown off for the first time at Silverstone over the July 4th weekend. The Megane special edition will be available as both a hatchback and coupe.

Renault Clio and Megane World Series Special Edition with R27

The Clio World Series by Renault is based on the Dynamique trim level adding a front spoiler, side skirts, a sports rear bumper plus WSR badging. It is available with two gasoline engines, a naturally aspirated 1.2-liter with 75HP and a 1.2-liter turbocharged four with 100HP, plus a 1.5-liter diesel producing 86HP, with prices starting from £12,170 on the road.

Renault Clio World Series Special Edition

Similar modifications are included on bothe Coupe models, with each also getting new 17-inch alloy wheels. The hatch also gets a six-speed manual, and "Coupé-style bumper inserts," leading to a combined total that is £1,190 less than the cost of the individual equipment. Customers choosing the Coupe will save £940.

Renault Megane Coupe World Series Special Edition

Priced from £16,595, the five-door Megane hatch version benefits from a front apron, Coupe-style bumper inserts, side skirts, a sports rear bumper, rear spoiler, WSR badging and 17-inch alloy wheels. Buyers can choose from the 1.6-liter petrol with 110HP or the 1.5-liter diesel making 106HP.
via:worldcarfans

Renault Clio World Series Special Edition



Press Release

RENAULT UNVEILS NEW WORLD SERIES SPECIAL EDITION CLIO AND MEGANE

* World Series by Renault special edition Clio, Mégane Hatch and Mégane Coupé feature sports body styling
* Dynamique-based special editions offer £1,650 worth of additional equipment for £500 extra
* Available to order from 1st July, in showrooms from 6th July

Renault raises the temperature this summer launching hot special edition versions of New Clio and New Mégane. Due to be unveiled at the World Series by Renault spectacular at Silverstone on the weekend of 4th and 5th July, the World Series by Renault special editions exude style and panache in an insurance-friendly package.

World Series by Renault will light up the 3.2-mile Silverstone Grand Prix circuit as Renault's free festival of motorsport is expected to draw a crowd of over 100,000 as fans flock to see a thrilling weekend of action-packed racing including the 500hp Formula Renault 3.5.

Based on the most popular Dynamique trim level in the Clio, Mégane Hatch and Coupé ranges, the three World Series versions add extra equipment with savings for the customer of up to £1,190.

Clio World Series by Renault builds on the sporty Dynamique level and adds an extended front spoiler, side skirts, a sports rear bumper plus WSR badging. Customers can choose from the 1.2 16V 75, the highly efficient TCe 100 or the frugal dCi 86 engines. Priced from £12,170 on the road, the customer will save £680 from the price of the equipment if ordered separately.

Mégane Hatch World Series by Renault is based on the popular Dynamique five-door and adds an extended front spoiler, Coupé-style bumper inserts, side skirts, a sports rear bumper, rear spoiler, WSR badging and 17" alloy wheels. Customers can choose from the 1.6 16V 110 or the dCi 106, both with a six-speed gearbox. Priced from £16,595 on the road, customers save £1,190 over the price of the equipment were it ordered separately.

The Mégane Coupé World Series by Renault adds to the rakish design of the standard car with an extended front spoiler, side skirts, sports rear bumper and 17" alloy wheels. Priced from £16,995, customers save £940 over the price of the items ordered separately.

Version

Engine

CO2 g/km

BIK

OTR Price
Clio World Series by Renault 1.2 16V 75

139

15%

£12,170

1.2 TCe 100

137

15%

£12,870

1.5 dCi 86

115

13%

£13,820

Version

Engine

CO2 g/km

BIK

OTR Price
Mégane Hatch World Series by Renault 1.6 VVT 110

162

20%

£16,595

1.5 dCi 106

120

13%

£18,095

Version

Engine

CO2 g/km

BIK

OTR Price
Mégane Coupé World Series by Renault 1.6 VVT 110

162

20%

£16,995

1.5 dCi 106

120

13%

£18,495

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Los Angeles Auto Show: Lincoln MKZ gets more luxurious Executive Appearance Package

发表者 ddgg 6/25/09


Rounding out Ford’s trio of updated midsize sedans at last year’s Los Angeles Auto Show was the new Lincoln MKZ, which like its Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan siblings received a new face, restyled interior, and more standard features for the 2010.


The features include Dark Charcoal or Cashmere colored trim, Bridge of Weir leather seats, unique door trim with stitching, a new center-console armrest insert, genuine Swirl Walnut wood used for the instrument panel accents and console, and finally floor mats with an embossed Lincoln star logo.


Ford has now added a new rage-topping trim level for the MKZ titled the Executive Appearance Package. The accessories package adds more traditional luxury appointments and expands the range of Lincoln MKZ option packages.


Power comes from the familiar 3.5L V6 Duratec engine, delivering 263hp (196kW) and 249lb-ft (337Nm) of torque. The engine uses a compact, lightweight dual-overhead cam valvetrain for peak power and smooth operation at high RPMs. It also incorporates intake variable cam timing to optimize valve timing for a smooth idle and a broader torque curve.


Executive Appearance Package is also available with new exterior colors, including Tuxedo Black, White Platinum, Brilliant Silver, Sterling Gray and Sangria Red. Customers also 17in machined aluminum or chrome wheels as standard, with larger 18in polished aluminum wheels available as an option.


Pricing should be revealed closer to the launch of the Executive Appearance Package in the late summer.
Source:motorauthority

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Mercedes AMG Driving Academy Returns with the 2011 Mercedes SLS AMG

发表者 ddgg

Mercedes SLS AMG Gullwing in white first spy photo

AMG enthusiasts lucky enough to live in the US and pocketed enough to afford track training fees upwards of US$2,200 can get their hands on the brand new SLS AMG for a few hours. The AMG Driving Academy is being launched Stateside over three tracks; Lime Rock Park (Lime Rock, CT) - September 9 - 15, Palm Beach International Raceway (West Palm Beach, FL) - September 22 - 27 and Laguna Seca Raceway (Monterey, CA) - November 7 - 8 and 17 - 20.

Mercedes SLS AMG Gullwing in white first spy photo

Cars to be used are the E63 AMG, the SL63 AMG, the C63 AMG, the SLK55 AMG and the CLK63 AMG Black Series. The main treat is of course the SLS AMG course which is conducted at Laguna Seca Raceway, includes an overnight stay at the InterContinental Hotel in Monterey and costs US$2,295.

Mercedes SLS AMG Gullwing in white first spy photo

There are two other programmes on offer. The AMG Driving Academy Stage I is a one-day course that teaches the fundamentals of performance driving and car control. Students will get a chance to test their skills later in the day. Expect to pay US$1,895 per person.

Mercedes SLS AMG Gullwing in white first spy photo

Lastly participants can go with the AMG Driving Academy Stage II two-day programme that gets quite technical and in-depth. Drivers will only be allowed to enrol if they have completed the first stage or something similar. It will cost US$3,495 per participant.

Mercedes SLS AMG Gullwing in white first spy photo

Founded in Affalterbach in 2007 the academy aims to stimulate customers' senses through the experience of driving their favourite AMGs around a controlled and safe environment under the guidance of professionals.
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Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Gullwing interior - hi res


Press Release

Mercedes AMG is offering driving enthusiasts a chance to fulfill their dreams of driving top performance vehicles and sharpening their racing skills with the U.S. launch of its AMG Driving Academy. The AMG Driving Academy is an advanced driver training program that allows enthusiasts, under the guidance of top professional instructors, to experience the excitement of motorsports and the track capabilities of Mercedes-AMG vehicles.

Originally founded by AMG in Affalterbach, Germany in 2007, the AMG Driving Academy arrives Stateside in September 2009 and offers an opportunity to get behind the wheel of several AMG models including the all new E63 AMG, SL63 AMG, C63 AMG, SLK55 AMG and the CLK63 AMG Black Series. The program features custom-designed excercises that showcase the dynamic driving capabilitlies of these AMG vehicles across three premier tracks:


Lime Rock Park (Lime Rock, CT) - September 9-15, 2009
Few tracks are as well known and loved. This classic 1.53-mile, 7-turn course, nestled in the Berkshire Mountains of northwest Connecticut continues to challenge some of the world's best drivers since 1957.


Palm Beach International Raceway (West Palm Beach, FL) - September 22-27, 2009
Boasting an 11-turn, 2.034-mile design, Palm Beach International Raceway road course features some of the fastest and most challenging corners and straightaway's offered by any track in North America.


Laguna Seca Raceway (Monterey, CA) - November 7-8 & 17-20, 2009
Located in one of North America's best destination locations -- the Monterey Peninsula, Laguna Seca features tremendous elevation changes, the famous Corkscrew complex, and 2.24 sinewy miles.


The AMG Driving Academy launches with two program levels:

• AMG Driving Academy Stage I: A one day program designed to teach the fundamentals of performance driving dynamics and car control maneuvers using customized exercises that emphasize the power and handling capabilities of AMG vehicles. Drivers will also test their skills on the track at high speeds and during performance course competition. The AMG Driving Academy Stage I program fee is $1,895.00 per participant

• AMG Driving Academy Stage I SLS: Drivers attending the AMG Driving Academy Stage One at Laguna Seca Raceway from November 17-20 will have the opportunity to be among the very first to drive the most technologically advanced AMG ever - the all-new 2011 SLS AMG. The AMG Driving Academy Stage 1 SLS program fee is $2,295.00 per participant which includes a one night stay at the InterContinental Hotel in Monterey.

• AMG Driving Academy Stage II: A two-day program that provides a deep level of technical driver training both on and off the track. As an advanced program, Stage 2 is offered to drivers who have completed Stage I or an equivalent course. The program offers significantly more track driving over Stage 1 to extract a driver's maximum potential in a performance driving setting. A unique feature of Stage II is the use of computer driver training and evaluation through advanced onboard diagnostics and in-car camera recordings of their laps. This program also includes a competitive performance course competition. The AMG Driving Academy Stage II program fee is $3,495.00 per participant.



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VW Bluesport,Cadillac Converj, Fisker Sunset win SEAMO Concept Car of the Year Awards

发表者 ddgg 6/24/09


The Cadillac Converj took the honors for 2009 Specialty Concept Vehicle of the Year, slotting into that category on the back of its Chevrolet-Volt-inspired extended-range electric powertrain.

2009 Volkswagen Bluesport roadster concept 3 of 45

The Volkswagen Bluesport Roadster Concept took home the overall 2009 Concept Car of the Year award for its efficient, fun and stylish packaging - plus a diesel drivetrain.

Fisker Karma plug-in hybrid convertible 2 of 6

Fisker's gorgeous Karma Sunset Concept won the 2009 Production Preview Vehicle of the Year for its near-ready design and flawless styling. "A company run by a designer should have beautiful cars, concepts and prototypes. Henrik Fisker's firm certainly does the Fisker Karma Sunset is just drop dead gorgeous," said SEAMO juror Michael Bettencourt.


Concept cars are not the lifeblood of the industry, but they often determine what that lifeblood will look like 5-10 years down the road. This year, the Cadillac Converj, Fisker Karma Sunset and Volkswagen Bluesport Roadster were each pegged as the best in their respective categories by the Southeast Automotive Media Organization (SEAMO).


The SEAMO North American Concept Vehicle of the Year Awards have been handed out for the past 8 years, recognizing the most innovative and attractive concept vehicles of the preceding year.
Source:motorauthority

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Ford previews blind man unleashing inner Mustang _ with Video

发表者 ddgg


Most of us take for granted the ability to enjoy driving cars. Whether it's with a clunker or a supercar, there is a wonderful freedom that comes with getting behind the wheel of an automobile. No one knows that more than Roger Keeney, a man from Athens, GA who lost his sight twenty years ago. As we reported earlier, Keeney caught Ford's attention with his application for the '10 Unleashed' program, and decided to fulfill his dream of driving a Mustang. Ford had the cameras rolling during the whole thing, and will be posting a series of videos on the 2010 Mustang web site. Both the trailer and chapter one have already been released, and we've embedded them after the jump.
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PRESS RELEASE:

DEARBORN, Mich., June 23, 2009 – With the warm Arizona wind pelting his forehead and his entire body vibrating from the mighty roar of the engine, Roger Keeney took a brand new 2010 Ford Mustang convertible on an amazing ride, doing donuts on the pavement and amassing speeds of up to 90 mph.

This would be a thrill for anybody but what makes this truly remarkable is that fact that Keeney has been blind for the past 20 years.

Sixty-two-year-old Keeney, who lives in Athens, Ga., won the chance to drive the new 2010 Mustang by participating in "The '10 Unleashed" promotion, which asked people to describe their ultimate Mustang dream experience in 250 words or less. A video diary chronicling his extraordinary ride will be featured starting today at www.the2010mustang.com.

"When I got the phone call from Ford saying that I had won, I thought someone was playing a joke on me," said Keeney, who lost his sight in a farming accident.

It was definitely not a joke, says Ford Car Communications Manager Patricia Piedrahita.

"Without a doubt, his essay caught our attention," she said. "His submission hinted that he may be blind, so we had to talk to him to learn more. Upon speaking to him we knew he would help us see the Mustang from a different point of view."
On May 7, 2009, Ford flew Keeney down to the expansive Ford Proving Grounds just outside of Phoenix, Ariz. With safety their number one concern, the Mustang team arranged for former professional racer Tommy Kendall to ride shotgun in the car.

"Tommy said, 'When you were a teenager, did you ever do donuts?' And I said, 'Yeah.' So I got it rolling a bit in first gear, cranked it hard to the left and revved it up and popped it and did three donuts before we stopped. When we stopped, we could hear the camera crew cheering from clear across the field. I was in awe of both the car and the experience, it was truly a dream come true."
"The most life-changing thing you can do for folks with disabilities is put them in a situation that everyone else has told them is impossible. The experience for me in the Mustang with Tommy Kendall next to me and driving that wonderful automobile was really great," Keeney added.

The rush and exhilaration of Keeney's dream come true is brought to life through the video chapters available for viewing at www.the2010mustang.com.

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2010 BMW 1-Series Coupe gets Two New Engines, 'M Sport' & 'Lifestyle' Special Editions

发表者 ddgg

BMW 1 Series

BMW has introduced a further two engines with an EU5 emission rating. The new 120i Coupé and 118d Coupé will begin selling this coming September. The 120i Coupé comes fitted with a 2.0-litre four-pot motor that generates 125kW (170hp) and 210Nm at 4,250rpm. It features high precision direct injection and helps the car accelerate from 0 - 100km/h in 7.8 seconds. Top speed is 224km/h. Average fuel consumption is 6.6 litres per 100km while the overall C02 emissions rating is 153g/km.
via:worldcarfans

BMW 1 Series Lifestyle Edition

Press Release

The BMW 1 Series in the 2010 Model Year: the Epitome of Efficiency and Driving Pleasure - Now with New Engine Variants and Attractive Edition Models.

Entering the 2010 model year, the BMW 1 Series as the guarantee for the broad-scale impact of BMW EfficientDynamics and as the epitome of Sheer Driving Pleasure in the compact segment is gaining even greater significance. Two additional, extra-economical low-emission engine variants are enhancing the model range of the BMW 1 Series Coupé as of September 2009: In the guise of the BMW 120i Coupé and the BMW 118d Coupé there will then be two further models with the EU5 emission rating.

Following the successful launch of the new entry-level three-door and five-door models, the BMW 116i and the BMW 116d, in spring 2009, the BMW 1 Series is once again proving its value as the pacemaker for efficient mobility combined with outstanding driving pleasure in the compact class. Other new models as of September 2009 are the Lifestyle and Sport Editions of the BMW 1 Series three- and five-door.

Still the only rear-wheel-drive model in the compact segment, the BMW 1 Series offers a unique blend of sporting driving pleasure and outstanding efficiency. Particularly the BMW 1 Series Coupé brings out this character so typical of the brand in truly convincing style, with two new entry-level versions of the two-door featuring a gasoline and a diesel engine coming into the market in September 2009: The new BMW 120i Coupé is powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder with BMW High Precision Injection (direct gasoline injection) developing 125 kW/170 hp at 6, 700 rpm and peak torque of 210 Newton-metres/155 lb-ft at 4, 250 rpm, accelerating the BMW 120i Coupé from zero to 100 km/h in 7.8 seconds and offering a top speed of 224 km/h or 149 mph. Average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle is 6.6 litres/ 100 kilometres, the CO2 emission rating is 153 grams per kilometre.

An award-winning four-cylinder diesel makes the new BMW 118d Coupé the most efficient car of its kind, the diesel engine with its aluminium crankcase, turbocharging and common-rail fuel injection helping the three-door BMW 118d win the World Green Car of the Year 2008 Award. Displacing 2.0 litres, this high-tech power unit develops 105 kW/143 hp at 4, 000 rpm and delivers maximum torque of 300 Newton-metres/221 lb-ft between 1, 750 and 2, 500 rpm.

This outstanding power unit offers an unbeatable combination of performance and fuel economy also in the Coupé, the BMW 118d Coupé accelerating from a standstill to 100 km/h in 9.0 seconds and reaching a top speed of 210 km/h or 130 mph. Offering average fuel consumption according to the EU standard of 4.5 litres/100 kilometres (equal to 62.8 mpg imp) and a CO2 emission rating of 119 grams per kilometre, this compact athlete clearly proves its outstanding talent in terms of both all-round economy and clean emissions.



BMW 1 Series

The BMW 1 Series - the pacemaker in reducing fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.

Both new variants of the BMW 1 Series Coupé come as standard with a wide range of BMW EfficientDynamics technologies such as Brake Energy Regeneration, an Auto Start Stop function, a gearshift point indicator and ancillary units with on-demand management and control. Both the BMW 120i Coupé and the BMW 118d Coupé naturally fulfil the EU5 emission standard, meaning that the BMW 1 Series alone now comes with 21 models complying with this requirement. A further important point is that five models in the BMW 1 Series already offer a CO2 emission rating of less than 120 grams per kilometre, with the BMW 116d standing out as the absolute leader in terms of fuel economy and emission management. The four-cylinder diesel engine featured in this particular version of the BMW 1 Series delivers maximum torque of 260 Newton-metres or 192 lb-ft and, in combination with BMW EfficientDynamics also featured as standard in this model, allows average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle of just 4.4 litres/100 kilometres (equal to 64.2 mpg imp) and a CO2 rating of 118 grams per kilometre.

The technologies developed by BMW - and naturally featured at no extra cost - to reduce both fuel consumption and emissions play a particularly significant role in the successful BMW 1 Series. Indeed, this makes BMW an important role model for the entire automotive industry, with BMW still selling more cars with high-efficiency technology each month than other car makers in the course of a whole year. At the same time the consistent expansion of the BMW 1 Series by the addition of particularly economical model variants including the new BMW 116i delivering maximum output of 90 kW/122 hp and peak torque increased to 185 Newton-metres or 136 lb-ft makes a significant contribution to the success achieved by BMW in recent times in reducing average fleet fuel consumption. Between 2006 and 2008 alone, the average fuel consumption of BMW's models in the German market was reduced by no less than 16 per cent, BMW therefore exceeding the rate of reduction of the next-best competitor in the premium segment more than twice.

BMW 1 Series Lifestyle Edition

Exclusive and full of character: the BMW 1 Series Lifestyle and Sport Editions.

Apart from outstanding efficiency and the Sheer Driving Pleasure so typical of the brand, innovative features and uncompromising premium quality help to give the BMW 1 Series a truly prominent position in its segment - and now the new Lifestyle und Sport Edition Models add further class and style to these characteristic features. The Edition Models excel in particular through particularly attractive, high-quality and carefully matched features and equipment, and are available on all engine variants of the three-door and five-door.

The Lifestyle Edition exudes stylish extravagance both on the exterior and in the interior of the BMW 1er, highlighted by body paintwork in exclusive Marrakesh Brown Metallic including additional components in body colour and chrome-plated tailpipes as well as exclusive light-alloy rims in five-spoke design. All models come with 17-inch wheels.

On the five-door the exterior is rounded off by the car's special finish on the window shaft covers and side window surrounds in Shadow Line, on the three-door in Chrome Line. Chrome entry trim proudly bearing the name "BMW Edition", a leather sports steering wheel with multifunction buttons, and roof lining in anthracite colour provide a particular touch of modern elegance within the interior.

The exclusivity of the Lifestyle Edition is highlighted to an even higher level of perfection by the interior colour scheme matched to the colour of the paintwork. Features include interior trim in high-gloss Marrakesh Brown as well as door panels and seat upholstery in Magma Brown. And as an alternative to Network cloth upholstery there is also the choice of Pearlpoint upholstery with Magma Brown cloth / leather.

The exterior and interior features are also carefully matched to one another on the Sport Edition Model, giving the BMW 1 Series particularly dynamic and powerful character. The Edition Models come as standard with the M Sports Package including the M Aerodynamics Package, a sports suspension set-up as well as 17-inch light-alloy wheels in dual-spoke design. The BMW 130i and BMW 123d feature 18-inch light-alloy wheels in Ferric Grey paintwork available as an option also on the other model variants. Exclusive Blackline rear lights, exterior features in body colour, Shadow Line on the window shaft covers and side window surrounds, foglamps and chrome-plated tailpipes on the exhaust round off the striking look of the exterior.

The sporting and exclusive flair of the interior is highlighted by chrome-plated entry trim bearing the name "BMW Edition", stainless-steel pedals, an M footrest, an M sports steering wheel, an M gearshift lever complete with its gaiter made of soft nappa leather, interior trim in Aluminium Glacier Silver and roof lining in anthracite colour. As yet a further highlight the BMW 1 Series Sport Edition comes with sports seats for the driver and front passenger in a combination of cloth and Sensatec featuring blue ornamental stitching around the seat bottoms and headrests. And to provide the final touch the footmats are adorned by blue piping.

Navigations system Business in the BMW 1 Series now featuring an integrated storage of navigation data and optimised display technology.

In conjunction with one of the navigation systems available as an option the BMW 1 Series proudly boasts the new generation of BMW iDrive electronic vehicle management. Entering the 2010 model year, the BMW 1 Series furthermore comes as an option with a new version of the Business navigation system, its new control concept allowing even easier and more precise control through iDrive featuring direct choice and favourite buttons.

The new Control Display with 800 x 480 pixel image resolution ensures detailed presentation of maps in two dimensions or in a perspective view, complete with integrated arrow graphics. Storage of navigation data installed within the car serves to provide even faster access to the system. And last but not least, the audio unit included within the new control system comes complete with a CD player.


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Toyota plans new hydrogen vehicle by 2015

发表者 ddgg 6/23/09


Toyota Motor, the world's top automaker, plans to roll out a fuel-cell car by 2015 in its push to stay ahead in the global race for green autos, vice president Masatami Takimoto said.

In 2007, Toyota drove one of its hydrogen fuel cell vehicles from Alaska to Vancouver, British Columbia. Earlier that same year, a Toyota FCHV drove from Tokyo to Osaka on one tank. The company is certainly in favor of at least researching the technology, and it has repeatedly said that it will start series production of a fuel cell vehicle in the middle of the next decade. At one point, Toyota hinted that 2014 might mark the big year, but that's looking unlikely now.


Toyota began limited sales of a fuel-cell hybrid vehicle in 2002 in the United States and Japan, using technology from its best-selling Prius hybrids.
Source: AFP via autoblog

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Curiously quick Concours closure creates consternation

发表者 ddgg


The recently opened Concours Supercars store at the Irvine Spectrum Center closed last week, said Kelly Rose Pion, spokeswoman for Concours Motorcar Company, an Anaheim-based business that owned the store.


The Orange County Register is reporting that the parent operation, Concours Supercars, has already shut the store's doors. Spokeswoman Kelly Rose Pion says the Irvine Spectrum location closed on June 17, about two months after it had opened because of "issues" with the company's main facility in Anaheim. Concours Supercars has had to "alter its business operations," according to Pion, and that meant closing the Irvine Concours Supercars store.


This was the first retail store for Concours. The shop spanned 6,000 square feet and was near Nordstrom and Target. It sold apparel and accessories from automotive brands, including Ferrari, Lamborghini, Porsche, Aston Martin, Shelby, Camaro and Corvette. Concours Supercars customers were also able to view showcased collector cars; purchase Techco performance parts; or test their skills on virtual pro car simulators.
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Video: Fiat 500C in Depth

发表者 ddgg


Fiat has released some new, but expected details about the Fiat 500C. The soft-top homage to the 50's classic was introduced at the Geneva Motor Show earlier this year.

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Press Release

Unveiled to the world for the first time at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show, the new Fiat 500C pays homage to the original 1957 Fiat 500 and its fabric roof, but also offers innovative solutions in terms of mechanical design, engines and comfort. All this in line with the most authentic Fiat tradition of giving people access to segment firsts in content and technology.

In Italy, the public will be able to take it for a test drive from July 4th, the birthday of the Fiat 500 and exactly two years after the launch of the model that really raised the bar in terms of comfort, safety, technology and features.

Using a typical open-source approach (i.e. continually evolving a successful product on the basis of input from its users), the Centro Stile Fiat design centre created the 500C by interacting with the many communities of Cinquecento enthusiasts - notably the 500 Wants You website - and reinforcing the position of the model as "a car for the people, by the people"..

Starting from the saloon version, the introduction of the soft top does not change the winning characteristics of the model such as its four comfortable seats and boot capacity, but it does add new functions that heighten enjoyment. These include easier access to the boot even when the soft top is fully open, thanks to a clever system of parallelogram hinges.

Another strong point of the original cabriolet version is its exceptional climate and acoustic comfort. Thorough aerodynamic research means that the turbulence experienced with the roof open has been reduced to a minimum, allowing full enjoyment of the fresh air and the company of fellow passengers.

The decision to re-interpret the original design in modern key, with an electric sliding roof but a stylistic design that retains the shape of the classic car makes the Fiat 500C less of a seasonal product and one that can be enjoyed the whole year round. In short, all these features make this new vehicle one of the most successful convertibles in the modern city-car segment.

A true object of design, the soft top of the Fiat 500C stands out for its elegant electrically controlled movements and its impressively finished and carefully selected technical features, from the glass rear window to the third brake light built into the soft top itself. Available in three colours (ivory, red and black), the clever soft top is matched with various paint finishes including three ad-hoc creations: a pearlescent Ragamuffin Red, a Tech House Grey so typical of sporty super cars, and Goth-Metal Blue (the latter available for the whole range).

The Fiat 500C has an exclusive feel to its interior, which is embellished with top quality and highly desirable fabrics, including Frau leather upholstery, and a long list of market-dependent standard and optional features: from automatic climate control to the innovative Interscope HiFi System, from the Blue&Me Map portable navigation unit to the smart wind-stop, and from the

Start&Stop system to the new collection of customisable options.

A free and emotive expression of the automobile, the Fiat 500C retains the same dimensions as the base model (355 cm long, 165 cm wide and 149 cm high) and shares all three of its power units: the 75 HP 1.3-litre MultiJet turbodiesel engine combined with a five-speed manual gearbox and the two 69 HP 1.2 litre and 100 HP 1.4 litre petrol engines, both available with manual or Dualogic robotised gearbox. Each engine offers different qualities, but all three are defined by generosity and a lively temperament, as well as high performance and sophisticated technology. Among their common qualities are great reliability and respect for the environment (all are Euro5-approved). To confirm Fiat Automobiles' commitment to environmental protection and sustainable mobility, the 500C includes the innovative “Start&Stop” system, which controls the temporary cutting out of the engine and its subsequent restarting. When the vehicle stops, putting the gear lever in neutral and releasing the clutch will switch off the engine; to restart, simply put the car back into gear.

With the commercial launch of its latest convertible, the Fiat 500 continues to be talked about and confirms its status as a real Italian style icon, able to win over the public and critics worldwide. The best evidence of its success are the 30 awards it has won across the globe, the 11 million internet users that have visited its website (viewing a total of 200 million pages) and the more than 360,000 orders so far received across the 59 markets in which it is being sold.

This is all the more impressive when you consider that more than half the sales have been recorded outside Italy (50% elsewhere in Europe and 8% in the rest of the world). In each country where it has been launched, the Fiat 500 has generated enormous interest: in Japan, for example, there have been more than 5,000 orders. It should also be highlighted that 80% of Fiat 500 clients select the most expensive features and 90% ask for the Blue& Me system.

In short, as an expression of Italy's finest automotive design, the 500 is not merely a super-compact city car, but a real platform upon which Fiat Automobiles is building a whole family of cars with advanced technology and high attention to detail. The new 500C represents another step forward in this direction.

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GM hits two million Buick sales in China

发表者 ddgg


It took General Motors eight years to sell one million Buicks in China, but the second million came in only three. Brisk auto sales in the land of the Great Wall are part of the reason for the increase, but the General has also stepped up its product lineup with new offerings, including the Regal, LaCrosse, and Park Avenue. Shanghai GM's two-millionth Buick was a red Regal, delivered to a customer in the southern city of Guangzhou.


While Buick has struggled as a brand here in the States, the marquee has enjoyed blockbuster success in China. Buick was a smash success in China in the 1930s, as provincial presidents and emperors chose the brand over more austere offerings from the likes of Rolls-Royce and Mercedes-Benz, and it appears some of that goodwill has been projected into modern times.


While those vehicles have brought some high-end class to GM Shanghai's Buick operation, they haven't come close to the success of the smaller Excelle. Shanghai GM has sold 900,000 copies of the Excelle sedan, hatch, and wagon since 2003, and sales are still going strong with 94,000 units moved in the first five months of 2009.
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Spy Photos: 2012 BMW Z2 Roadster

发表者 ddgg


A new, entry-level roadster based on the 1-series and powered by a range of economical four-cylinder engines may be brewing at BMW. The company's board of directors are expected to make a decision on the car by the end of the year, and if it's approved it could be in production in time for the 2012 model year.

Rumors of a so-called Z2 have been tumbling about the web for at least three years, but so far nothing has come of it. The latest reports indicate that the car is in the works and these new computer generated renderings provide a glimpse as to what it may look like.


That speculation would lead us to believe that a range of four-cylinders, including a 120hp (90kW) entry-level model and a 211hp (157kW) turbocharged unit could be on the table for the smallest of BMW's roadsters. A target price of about €25,000 - at least €5,000 cheaper than the existing Z4 - would put it at the more affordable end of the spectrum, but still far from inexpensive. The soft-top Roadster would be fairly light, however, and the thrifty four-cylinder engines would be efficient. This combination would make it an ideal competitor for cars like the Mazda MX-5 and Lotus Elise.


Performance from the punchy engines would likely be sporting, but not fast: estimates put 0-62mph (0-100km/h) times around 7 seconds, and top speed at about 150mph (240km/h). A high-performance variant with BMW’s 3.0L twin-turbocharged six is reportedly under consideration as is a hybrid model. Configuration would be as a two-seater with a 'weekender' luggage area, suitable for overnight getaways.

Whether the car is eventually built or not, it won't likely see sales in the U.S. in the near term, as even the 1-series Coupes on offer here are only available with the inline-six in naturally aspirated and twin-turbo form. Four-cylinder engines with turbochargers and direct injection could eventually see U.S. sale, but the first applications for them will likely be conservative 3-series sedans, not sports cars.
Source:motorauthority

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Porsche commemorates 75th anniversary of the order to build the Volkswagen

发表者 ddgg


To celebrate the anniversary, Porsche Museum is dedicating a Special Exhibition to be held from today through July 31, 2009. The exhibit will display photos of the original Volkswagen prototypes and the men, including Ferdinand Porsche, who helped to design and build them.


The history of the Volkswagen later known as the Beetle is too complex and storied for proper treatment here, but on June 22, 1934 the Association of the German Reich of the Automotive Industry gave the go-ahead for Porsche's corporate predecessor to build the Volkswagen.


It wasn't until after the war, in the summer of 1945, that the civilian Volkswagen began regular production. This civilian version was nicknamed the 'VW Käfer', or VW Beetle. The rest, as they say, is history.


Two cars will also be on display, including a rare pre-war prototype of the Volkswagen called the VW38, which was a personal vehicle of Porsche. And continuing today's diesel theme, the second display vehicle of note is a Beetle prototype fitted with a diesel engine from the early 1950s.


The past several months have seen a number of anniversaries, often centennial celebrations, but none have been for a vehicle that's seen 75 years of production. Today marks the 75th anniversary of the order to Porsche to build the iconic people's car.
Source:motorauthority

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