The gap between racetrack and family has finally been filled. The 2013 Ford Taurus SHO with Performance Package is the ride of choice for anyone looking to burn rubber after work in the same car she uses to drive to parent-teacher conferences
Honda Motor Co., Ltd. today unveiled the new UNI-CUB personal mobility device, designed for harmony with people. Featuring a compact design and comfortable saddle, UNI-CUB offers the same freedom of movement in all directions that a person enjoys while walking.
Representing the evolution of the U3-X personal mobility device that Honda announced in 2009, UNI-CUB features Honda’s proprietary balance control technology and the world’s first omni-directional driving wheel system (Honda Omni Traction Drive System). These technologies allow the rider to control speed, move in any direction, turn and stop, all simply by shifting his or her weight. Since the rider can freely move forward, backward, side-to-side and diagonally, he or she can quickly and easily maneuver among other people.
Moreover, UNI-CUB’s compact saddle-style packaging makes it easy for the rider’s legs to reach the ground and maintains eye-level height with other pedestrians. This configuration promotes harmony between the rider and others, letting the rider travel freely and comfortably inside facilities and among moving people.
Starting in June 2012, Honda will jointly conduct demonstration testing of UNI-CUB with Japan’s National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation. In addition to testing the feasibility of using UNI-CUB indoors, this project will explore the practical applications of the device in a wide range of environments in Japan and other countries.
The balance control technology of UNI-CUB is part of the Honda Robotics family of technologies, which originates with Honda’s research into humanoid robots, including the world-famous ASIMO.
BMW today announced an enhanced performance version of the 1 Series Coupe and Convertible called the BMW 135is. The 2013 135is Coupe and Convertible focus the qualities that made the 135i such a success amongst driving enthusiasts – with more performance, enhanced sound and dynamic design details. Both the new 135is Coupe and Convertible are scheduled to arrive in BMW Center showrooms this fall with retail pricing set at $44,145 and $48,845 respectively (including $895 destination and handling).
Both models are equipped with BMW’s award winning TwinPower Turbo 3.0-liter inline-6 engine (N55) featuring Valvetronic throttle-less intake technology, direct injection and a single twin-scroll turbocharger. For the 135is, the engine has been tuned to increase peak horsepower to 320 hp (+20 hp increase) and 317 lb-ft of torque (+17 lb.ft) while maintaining the same emissions level and MPG ratings of the 135i. A Performance exhaust system complements the increased engine performance and provides a sporty exhaust tone. The engine cooling system has been upgraded to match the additional performance output by adding a larger, and more powerful radiator fan and an auxiliary radiator.
Both BMW 135is models will be offered with either a standard 6-Speed manual transmission or an optional 7-Speed Double Clutch Transmission.
The 135is is equipped with sport suspension incorporating an aluminum double-pivot front suspension and a five-link fully independent rear suspension in lightweight steel.
BMW’s Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) also includes a Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) function that provides electronic intervention to prevent loss of vehicle control, but at a higher threshold before activation. This allows the driver to experience more spirited driving on dry roads and offers more flexibility when driving in more challenging conditions such as in snow. If the driver desires, both DSC and DTC can be disabled entirely. In addition to its duties as a safety system, the DSC system on the 135is is programmed specifically to enhance performance-oriented driving. The differential in the 135is comes from a new generation of final drives optimized for running smoothness and fuel efficiency. Featuring double-helical ball bearings, the differential runs at an even lower operating temperature reached more quickly than before thanks to the reduction of fluid required in the differential. Electronic rear brake management is used to simulate a differential lock for stronger acceleration in turns and low-traction conditions.
Stuttgart. The Porsche 918 Spyder is on the road: Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG, Stuttgart, has taken the driving trials of the super sports car of the future a step further with completion of the initial prototypes. The 918 Spyder will go into production at the end of September 2013 as planned, with the first customers receiving their vehicles before 2013 is out. “What we are doing with the 918 Spyder is redefining driving fun, efficiency and performance,” said Wolfgang Hatz, Member of the Executive Board Research and Development of Porsche AG.
The prototypes, their camouflage harking back to historical Porsche 917 racing cars, signal the final touches to the 918 Spyder. The focus is on the interplay between the highly sophisticated individual drive components. The combination of combustion engine and two independent electric motors – one on the front axle and one in the drive line, acting on the rear wheels – poses completely new demands on the development of the operating strategies. “They are therefore a critical component in this vehicle into which we have put all of our expertise and capacity for innovation,” said Wolfgang Hatz. These operating strategies and the development of the software to go with them are one of Porsche’s core competences. Both of them have a major influence on the extreme driving fun to be had with the 918 Spyder and they make possible a unique combination of minimal fuel consumption and maximum performance. The initial results of the driving trials are in line with the high expectations placed on the 918 Spyder.
The super sports car is designed as a plug-in hybrid vehicle combining a high-performance combustion engine with cutting-edge electric motors for extraordinary performance: on the one hand, the dynamics of a racing machine boasting more than 770 hp, on the other hand, fuel consumption in the region of three litres per 100 kilometres. Moreover, Porsche is breaking yet more new ground with the technology demonstrator with spectacular solutions such as the full carbon fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) monocoque with unit carrier, fully adaptive aerodynamics, adaptive rear-axle steering and the upward-venting “top pipes” exhaust system. In the process, the 918 Spyder is offering a glimpse of what Porsche Intelligent Performance may be capable of in future.
Discerning sports compact drivers not only want their engines to sing, they want them to roar. Ford engineers made sure the new Focus ST does both, with the help of a new twist on an existing technology.
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While the sound tube concept has been used on Mustang in the past, the sound symposer used in Focus ST is unique because of its electronically controlled valve that opens and closes based on driver inputs – engine speed, accelerator pedal position and gear selection. In lower gears, the valve is mapped more aggressively, while in higher gears the effect is dialed back to enable quieter cruising. This isn’t possible with conventional, passive sound tubes. Part of the reason Ford made these changes is that on Focus ST, for the first time, the symposer is attached directly to the intake manifold (as opposed to between the manifold and air intake).
The sporty and elegant design of the new three-door model, along with additional engine choices, are distinguishing features that sharpen the unmistakable profile of the BMW 1 Series as the recognised standard of sheer driving pleasure in the premium compact car segment. Powerful petrol and diesel engines with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology, the latest chassis design and rear-wheel drive, which is unique for a vehicle in this class, guarantee a sporty driving experience which is reflected in the dynamic and lean appearance of the new three-door BMW 1 Series.
Summary
- Second body variant added to the new BMW 1 Series; Latest edition of the three-door version impressively underscores the compact model’s sporting characteristics; Sporty, elegant design and attractive supplements to the drive portfolio strengthen the BMW Series’ unsurpassed position within the segment characterised by the unique rear-wheel drive system and superior handling; Highlight in the model range: the BMW M135i.
- New three-door BMW 1 Series with powerful, brand-typical proportions; Unique appearance thanks to dynamically stretched side line; Wide doors with frameless windows; Side window graphics flowing seamlessly into the B pillar and strongly retracted side window graphics; powerfully contoured side panels with particularly distinctive accentuation of the rear wheel arches; Side sill line extending to the front, underscoring the dynamically stretched character of the vehicle’s silhouette.
- Precise individualisation thanks to BMW Sport Line, BMW Urban Line and M Sport Package; Harmoniously matching, exclusive design and equipment features as an alternative to the basic variant; BMW M135i with model-specific exterior and interior design directly attuned to the technical requirements.
- Interior features, sporty appearance and handling profit from increased body length (+85 millimetres), wheelbase (+30 millimetres), track width (front: + 51, rear +72 millimetres) and width (+17 millimetres) in comparison to the predecessor model, with vehicle height remaining the same; Choice of two or three seats respectively at the rear, 21 millimetres more legroom at the rear, luggage compartment increased by 30 litres to 360 litres; Storage capacity of up to 1 200 litres thanks to foldable rear seat back (40 : 20 : 40 split folding optional).
Widened choice of petrol and diesel engines featuring BMW TwinPower Turbo technology; BMW 114i as new entry-level version with 75 kW/102 hp; Also available at market launch:
- BMW 116i (100 kW/136 hp), BMW 125i (160 kW/218 hp),
- BMW 116d (85 kW/116 hp), BMW 118d (105 kW/143 hp) and the
- BMW 125d (160 kW/218 hp) and the BMW 116d EfficientDynamics Edition with 85 kW/116 hp, additional fuel efficiency measures and a CO2 emissions level of 99 g/km in the EU test cycle.
- First ever BMW M Performance automobile to feature a petrol engine: BMW M135i with a 3-litre, straight six-cylinder engine and 235 kW/320 hp as well as M-characteristic suspension components and aerodynamically optimised body features; Highest level of performance and the most outstanding efficiency within the competitive environment; Typical M-style coherence between drive, suspension technology and aerodynamic balance as well as model-specific interior design for unmistakeable driving pleasure in a compact model; BMW M135i also available as a five-door version.
Also available from November 2012:
- BMW 118i (125 kW/170 hp),
- BMW 120d (135 kW/184 hp) as well as intelligent four-wheel drive
- BMW xDrive featured for the first time in the BMW 1 Series on the models BMW M135i xDrive and BMW 120d xDrive; BMW xDrive simultaneously available also for the 5-door version of the
- BMW 1 Series.
- All engine variants come with optimised six-speed manual transmissions as standard; Unique option in the compact segment: eight-speed automatic transmission or eight-speed automatic sports transmission; Comprehensive use of BMW EfficientDynamics technology including Auto Start Stop function in conjunction with manual and automatic transmissions as well as ECO PRO mode, which can be activated in conjunction with the Driving Experience Control function offered as standard.
- Vehicle concept perfectly attuned to driving pleasure, with longitudinally mounted engines, rear-wheel drive, harmonious weight distribution and sophisticated suspension technology; Best agility in the segment combined with optimised riding comfort; Double-joint spring-strut front axle, five-link rear axle; Exceptionally precise electromechanical power steering free from drive train influences; Variable sports steering as an option; DSC Dynamic Stability Control including DTC and Active Differential Brake (ADB-Sport) on the rear axle as standard; Torsion-resistant body structure; Comprehensive safety features.
- Optimised premium interior ambience thanks to excellent material quality and craftsmanship; Interior with driver-oriented cockpit; Control display of the optional operating system iDrive fitted as a firmly integrated onboard monitor sporting an exclusive BMW flat screen design.
- Wide range of driver assistant systems and mobility services from BMW ConnectedDrive that are unique in the compact segment: High-Beam Assistant, Adaptive Headlights, Rear View Camera, Lane Departure Warning incl. Rear Collision Warning, Parking Assistant, Cruise Control with braking function, Speed Limit Info with No Passing Indicator, Internet access, enhanced integration of smartphones and music players, Real-Time Traffic Information and Apps for personalised web radio reception and for access to Facebook and Twitter.
The Chevrolet Trax, an all-new small sport utility vehicle, will join the Chevrolet global portfolio and make its debut at the Paris Motor Show in September.
With room for five passengers and class-leading cargo space, Trax will meet the needs of customers in more than 140 markets. Mexico will be the first market to launch the crossover in the fourth quarter of this year. Because of the strong position of the Equinox, there are no plans to introduce the Trax in the U.S. market.
“The Trax provides Chevrolet an entry into a growing small SUV segment and delivers the flexibility, great fuel economy and car-like handling that urban explorers around the world require,” said Mary Barra, GM senior vice president of Product Development. “After a record sales year in 2011 and a record first quarter, Chevrolet continues to meet customer needs by expanding its portfolio with strong new entries.”
Chevrolet has recently introduced a new Malibu mid-sized sedan, Colorado pickup, TrailBlazer mid-sized SUV and Cruze station wagon. When it joins its siblings in the showroom, Trax will possess the same pioneering spirit and expressive design that defines each new Chevrolet.
Trax exhibits its SUV toughness and capability in a small package through a muscular exterior design and wide athletic stance. While its contemporary form evolves the global Chevrolet design aesthetic, Trax’s interior and details will be executed to standards usually found in more expensive vehicles.
Founded in 1911 in Detroit, Chevrolet is now one of the world’s largest car brands, doing business in more than 140 countries and selling more than 4 million cars and trucks a year. Chevrolet provides customers with fuel-efficient vehicles that feature spirited performance, expressive design and high quality. More information on Chevrolet models can be found at www.chevrolet.com.
• Fastest MINI ever built; extensive use of motorsport technology
• Best lap of the Nürburgring-Nordschleife: 8 min. 23 sec.
• Preview at the 2012 MINI United Festival
• Production limited to 2,000 cars
The new MINI John Cooper Works GP, the British premium brand has come up with another car of exceptional talent designed to deliver extreme performance on both the race track and the road. The sportiest road-registered MINI ever made will go on sale later this year in a limited run of 2,000 cars.
The MINI John Cooper Works GP is currently completing a program of testing in preparation for series production, part of which has involved setting an impressive fastest lap of the Nürburgring’s Nordschleife circuit ever achieved in a MINI. The MINI John Cooper Works GP lapped the Grand Prix course in 8 min. 23 sec. In so doing, the new model has put clear asphalt between itself and numerous sports cars from loftier perches – and beat the lap time set by its predecessor, the MINI Cooper S with John Cooper Works GP Kit, by almost 19 seconds.
Underpinning the performance characteristics of the MINI John Cooper Works GP is exclusive powertrain, chassis and aerodynamics technology inspired directly by motorsport. Its twin-scroll turbo engine generates outstanding torque, displays remarkable elasticity and demonstrates a healthy appetite for revs. The specially developed, adjustable race suspension channels this superlative output into spectacular yet precisely controllable handling.
As well as being undeniably imposing visually, the design of the body also gives the MINI John Cooper Works GP ideal aerodynamic balance in extreme driving situations – a key element in delivering that handling flair. Large front and rear aprons, striking side skirts and a bespoke roof spoiler are complemented by a newly developed rear diffuser which optimizes airflow around the underbody. The interior of the MINI John Cooper Works GP also contributes to the car’s inspirational racing feeling; with the rear seats removed, it focuses unashamedly on the needs of the driver and co-driver.
Autodromo has released a Chronograph version of our best-selling Vallelunga watch. Powered by a robust Swiss Made Ronda Quartz 5020.B movement, the chronograph features a stopwatch, 30 minute counter, and big date calendar window.
Vallelunga is a beautifully minimalist watch inspired by racing tachometers used in many Italian
Prototype and Grand Prix racing cars of late 1960s and early 1970s.
Located 20 miles outside of Rome, Vallelunga is a challenging road circuit designed by Italian racing legend Piero Taruffi . It was the site of many thrilling races in the 1960s and 1970s, featuring all of the legendary Italian marques.
Available in Black over Black or White over Stainless.
MSRP – $550
Pronunciation: VA-LAY-LOON-GA
BMW today released the first images and information on the next generation BMW 3 Series Sports Wagon and announced that, as with the two previous generations, this model will be offered in the US. Unlike anything else on the market, the all-new 3 Series Sports Wagon will again offer the flexibility and utility one would expect from a premium wagon combined with the driving dynamics of the quintessential sport sedan, the BMW 3 Series. The new BMW 3 Series Sports Wagon will launch in Europe later this year and is set to arrive in US showrooms in Spring 2013. Powertrain details for the US as well as pricing, specifications and standard/optional equipment will be announced at a later date.
Like its Sedan sibling, the new 3 Series Sports Wagon is slightly larger than its predecessor, most notably its wider track (front + 37 mm/1.46 in., rear + 48 mm/1.85 in.). The car’s length (+ 97 mm/3.66 in.) and wheelbase (+ 50 mm/1.96 in.) also accentuate its sporting promise. Inside the new BMW 3 Series Sports Wagon, rear passengers will appreciate the noticeable increase in space made possible by the larger dimensions. These larger dimensions also pay dividends in utility with nearly ten percent more cargo volume both with the rear seats up and when folded.
The new 3 Series Sports Wagon will be the next model to offer BMW Lines as a way to tailor the car to individual tastes, just as with the Sedan, by choosing from a trio of trim and equipment variants – the Sport Line, Luxury Line and Modern Line. Each presents its own individual take on the character of the Sports wagon, with exclusive, high-quality trim and material combinations. For the enthusiast who wants to go beyond even the Sport Line, the M Sport Line will also be offered because it is, after all, a BMW 3 Series at its heart.
Having been honed on Lotus’ Hethel Test Track, the car has already found its first customers. McMahon Raceworks with Condor Motorsport has just placed an order for their Evora GTC, and will enter it in America’s Grand-Am road races, the Rolex Sports Car Series. The team led by David McMahon with Armando Trentini as lead driver and consultant, spent two days this week getting familiar with the machine on the ragged edge at Lotus Headquarters.
Meanwhile, Team Bullrun’s Evora GT4 will be converted to GTC-spec in June. Raced by British drivers Richard Adams, David Green and Martin Byford, Bullrun’s Evora has proved phenomenally competitive in the 2012 Britcar MSA Endurance Championship and currently leads the standings.
The engine and gearbox of the GT4 Enduro are carried over to the GTC, but the car has been on a diet. Carbon-fibre doors, roof and engine cover have replaced fiberglass panels, and Plexiglass replaces the windows in order to trim yet more weight off what is already a very light car. At 1,130-1,140kg, depending on customer specification, the GTC is 30kg lighter than the Enduro.
It’s not all take-away. Traction control and BOSCH racing Anti-Lock Brakes system have been added to optimize power delivery and braking control. With England being particularly damp for the past month, serious testing of the GTC has taken place in the wet where the car’s intelligent traction control and ABS have come to the fore. A definitive comparison test will be conducted shortly, but already it has proved to be faster than the previous evolution.
Volkswagen is expanding its range for the Polo to the special model CrossPolo “Urban Black”. The attractive design model can be ordered as single CrossPolo in elegant white.
In its segment result, the Polo, the German registration statistics with 6454 units and a market share of 14.6 percent already unchallenged. Now the new Cross Polo “Urban Black” will expand the successful pilot program of the compact and the “Car of the Year Award” awarded Volkswagen: The new CrossPolo “Urban Black” boasts a brilliant exterior paint in “Oryxweiß Permutteffekt”. This, in conjunction with the 17-inch alloy wheels type “Budapest” – available in painted black or white -. For a high quality impression There are also a black roof rails, tinted rear side windows and a dark rear window.
The vehicle interior is dominated by the black roof lining and pillar trim black too. Also features an attractive black and gray sport seats include a combination of cloth and Alcantara. Refined, the interior of the “Urban Cross Polo White” numerous “Silver One” painted in panels on the radio, climate control panel and air vents and a chrome trim on the steering wheel. Silver-gray stitching on the 3-spoke leather steering wheel, handbrake lever and the textile foot mats complete the elegant look of the new model.
For the drive of the Cross Polo “Urban Black” provide four petrol and three common rail TDI, which produce between 51 kW / 70 PS and 77 kW / 105 hp. Optional to have five-or six-speed manual transmission and the 7-speed DSG transmission. The new special model comes standard with air conditioning, cruise control and the radio-CD system RCD 210 shipped. The starting price is 18 975 € for the 1.2 liter petrol engine (51 kW / 70 hp) with five -speed manual transmission.
Carroll Shelby International, Inc., (OTC: CSBI.PK) announced that Carroll Hall Shelby, a man whose vision for performance transformed the automobile industry, has died at age 89. Mr. Shelby passed away at Baylor Hospital in Dallas. The cause of death was not disclosed.
Born on Jan. 11, 1923, Carroll Shelby was one of America’s greatest success stories. Championship-winning racecar driver, “flying sergeant” wartime pilot, philanthropist, entrepreneur, car manufacturer and racing team owner, he embodied the ingenuity, tenacity and grit to overcome any obstacle. He is perhaps the only person to have worked at a visible level with all three major American automobile manufacturers.
Carroll Shelby founded Carroll Shelby International, a publicly held corporation involved in many industries. His licensing arm has agreements with industry giants, such as Mattel, Sony, Ford Motor Company and Electronic Arts. His car company, Shelby American, has a thriving parts business as well as a line of muscle cars including the Shelby GT500 Super Snake, Shelby GT350 and Shelby GTS. The Las Vegas-based company also manufactures a limited number of the 1960s Shelby 289 “street,” 289 FIA, 427 S/C and Daytona Coupe Cobras.
Shelby considered his greatest achievement to be the establishment of the Carroll Shelby Foundation™. Created in 1992 while Shelby was waiting for a heart transplant, the charity is dedicated to providing medical assistance for those in need, including children, educational opportunities for young people through automotive and other training programs and benefitting the Carroll Shelby Automotive Foundation.
Shelby remained active in the management of each of his companies and the Foundation until his death, even though he endured both heart and kidney transplants in the last two decades of his life.
Audi is exhibiting concept vehicles for lifestyle, action and sport on the Wörthersee Tour. Three powerful versions provide new accents in the Q3 model family, and with its e-bike Wörthersee prototype Audi defines a technical bike concept that explores the limits of technical feasibility on the basis of Audi’s core competences “design”, “ultra”, “connect” and “e-tron”. This grand meeting of Audi, VW, Seat and Skoda fans is being held for the 31st time from May 16 to 19 in Reifnitz, on the Wörthersee in Carinthia, Austria.
A center of focus for Audi at this year’s Wörthersee Tour are the three Q3-based themed cars: the new Audi Q3 red track, the Audi Q3 jinlong yufeng or ‘Golden Dragon in the Wind’ and the Audi RS Q3 concept. All three add new but quite different aspects to the character of this compact SUV: leisure-oriented, sturdy, dynamic. They are powered by five-cylinder TFSI engines developing between 228 kW (310 hp) and 265 kW (360 hp).
The Audi Q3 red track will appeal to winter-sport enthusiasts. On its roof it carries two pairs of Audi skis made from carbon fiber-reinforced polymer. Stored in the load area are two hand lamps with radiant heating elements and a thermos flask, all supplied inductively with electric power. Heatable seat cushions are integrated into the reversible load-area mat.
This concept car has an Energy Red paint finish that has been given additional luster by golden pearl-effect particles. Add-on body elements are finished in matt grey quartz paint; some of these items will soon be appearing in the Audi accessories program. In the Singleframe radiator grille the aluminum struts are vertical and red panels partially blank off the air inlets. The high-gloss package accentuates the window areas. Two compact LED headlights are installed in the roof rack and back up the beams from the xenon headlights after dark. The tailpipes of the dual-branch exhaust system are integrated into the rear diffuser. Inside the headlights the zones in the lower part of the daytime running light strips are painted in the body color.
In the first endurance test of its kind in the UK by a car manufacturer, cheeky safari park baboons were let loose on Hyundai’s New Generation i30 hatchback.
The car has been specially-designed for families, with extra strong materials used to build the interior, easy wipe plastics, tough fittings and a special high quality steel used for the bodywork.
Baboons from Knowsley Safari Park were chosen for their well-known love of tearing park visitors’ cars apart.
And it was monkey business as usual when Hyundai parked its i30 family car in the baboon enclosure, as it was immediately besieged by dozens of the park’s primates. But 10 hours later the car emerged virtually unscathed.
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The monkeys simulated the punishment that the children of a typical family subject a car to.
Outside, the paintwork was smeared and scraped, but the hard-wearing paint protected the car from significant scratches and chips.
To give something back to monkeys for their help, Hyundai has donated £1,000 to one of Knowsley’s supported charities, the Primate Society of Great Britain, which dedicates its work to conservation and captive care of new and old world monkeys, gibbons and apes.
“For a baboon, to have a car to play with for a whole day is manna from heaven!” says David Ross, General Manager at Knowsley Safari Park. “I’ve seen thousands of cars pass through this enclosure, get mobbed by monkeys, and none have lasted the distance as well as this Hyundai. These baboons are incredibly inquisitive. If you put them on any car they will scour it for the weak points and find any faults. At one point there were 40 monkeys in the car, pushing it to its limits — that’s ten times the size of the average human family!”