DMC Lamborghini Aventador LP900
Aston Martin Vanquish Volante (2014)
Aston Martin unveiled the Vanquish Volante - a stunning new luxury sports car that brings the thrill of open top motoring to the super GT class.
Alongside its coupe sibling, launched to worldwide acclaim in the autumn of 2012, the Aston Martin Vanquish Volante sits at the pinnacle of the luxury British car maker's sports car line-up.
Benefitting from all of the technical, engineering and design advances present in the Vanquish coupe, the new Volante enhances the driving experience still further through the option of exciting convertible driving.
Instantly becoming one of the most beautiful cars in its class, Aston Martin Vanquish Volante crucially retains the coupe's dynamic character and sporting capability. It boasts the same new AM11 6.0-litre V12 engine as the coupe and the same blistering performance figures, meaning the 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) sprint is despatched in just 4.1 seconds (estimated) while the top speed stands at 183 mph (294 km/h).
Aston Martin Vanquish Volante is the first fully carbon fibre-skinned Volante in the brand's 100-year history, while also being the stiffest Volante body structure yet created by the engineering team at Aston Martin's global HQ in Gaydon, Warwickshire, England. The new car's triple-skin lightweight fabric roof takes just 14 seconds to fold.
Announcing the arrival of the Vanquish Volante Aston Martin CEO Dr Ulrich Bez said: "This car is what luxury super GT driving is all about. Great performance, fantastic style and exhilarating Volante motoring in one superb package.
"Aston Martin is celebrating 100 years of excellence in 2013, and the arrival of this new sports car - our ultimate Volante - underlines that our mission to make the next 100 years even more successful is starting perfectly."
The design of Aston Martin Vanquish Volante represents the latest take on Aston Martin's iconic visual language. Styling cues such as the elegant waist, elongated side strakes and LED rear light blades are derived from the One-77 supercar while the folding fabric roof sits beneath a tonneau and decklid that have been aerodynamically tuned for optimum performance.
The windscreen, meanwhile, is now full height - a first for Aston Martin - which means that the glass runs up to meet the fabric roof, thereby achieving a particularly clean transition.
The Aston Martin Vanquish Volante's 'suit' of carbon fibre panels cloaks a cabin that is both sophisticated and comfortable. The 2+2 cabin is elegantly attired in authentic and luxurious materials: full grain Luxmil leather with optional quilting, metal controls and satin chrome trim underscore the car's well-appointed nature.
Each body panel on the car is constructed from carbon fibre not just because of its high strength-to-weight ratio, but also for its flexibility of form. This not only reduces mass but means that fewer individual body panels are required - reducing joints and contributing to a more coherent and svelte shape.
As practical as it is well-dressed, the Aston Martin Vanquish Volante boasts a boot that's fully 50% larger than that of the previous DBS Volante. It measures 279 litres - roof up or down - and makes the new Aston Martin the perfect choice for continent-crossing grand tours as well as daily drives.
Perhaps one of the most striking interior design elements is the centre stack with refinements providing a more elegant form that is also more intuitive and accessible for both driver and front seat passenger.
A direct descendent of the One-77 centre stack, the Vanquish and Vanquish Volante's set-up retains familiar elements such as the ECU engine start button and glass gear selection buttons while featuring a new infotainment system and a significantly more user-friendly design.
The facia trim now stretches down the whole centre stack and is manufactured from a single piece of material giving a uniform finish.
The user interface boasts a simple, ergonomically efficient layout as well as technological updates that make it the brand's most advanced in-car system available today.
Capacitive glass buttons with illumination and haptic feedback feature in the rest of the centre stack's switchgear. Haptic feedback is more commonly found in touch-screen mobile phones and Aston Martin became among the first significant luxury car manufacturers in the world to use the technology in a series production model when it debuted on Vanquish coupe in 2012.
Aston Martin Design Director Marek Reichman explained: "Vanquish Volante is a sports car, of course, but more even than that it is the ultimate Volante. A car which follows a long line of elegant Aston Martin convertibles, this super GT is sculpted to convey sophistication as much as raw power.
"The aerodynamically shaped tonneau, the proportions of the folding fabric roof, the luxurious nature of the cabin - these elements have been pored over by the Design team, working with our Engineering colleagues, to ensure we deliver the aesthetic appeal for which Aston Martin is renowned around the world."
Under its curvaceous carbon fibre bonnet the Aston Martin Vanquish Volante comprises the latest generation AM11 naturally aspirated 6.0-litre V12 petrol engine which drives the rear wheels via a Touchtronic 2 six-speed automatic gearbox.
The V12's power peak of 573 PS (565 bhp) arrives at 6,750 rpm while the torque peak of 620 Nm (457 lb ft) is available at 5,500 rpm. These numbers translate into performance that matches the Vanquish coupe's and ensures the new car supports its Super GT billing.
The dynamics have been tuned precisely, with new springs and damper settings calibrated to deliver the same crisp handling yet compliant ride as the coupe.
Strenuous efforts have been made to limit the new car's weight; contributing to its impressive performance, agile handling and compelling power-to-weight ratio. The combination of controlled weight, near-perfect 51:49 weight distribution, a powerful V12 engine and a performance-honed six-speed transmission unite to make the Aston Martin Vanquish Volante as rewarding on the move as it is beautiful standing still.
Like its coupe counterpart, the Aston Martin Vanquish Volante uses the latest generation of Aston Martin's class-leading VH (Vertical Horizontal) architecture, a lightweight bonded aluminium structure that provides outstanding strength and rigidity. In this iteration, the Vanquish now includes the addition of significant semi-structural carbon fibre components, as well as the use of bonding derived directly from the latest aerospace technologies.
As well as being light, strong and flexible in its application, the gen4 VH architecture is also extremely rigid. The new Vanquish Volante is, in fact, 14% torsionally stiffer than the DBS Volante which preceded it, making it highly resistant to flex and allowing for responsive and predictable handling.
This rigid structure also provides an ideal foundation from which the suspension can control the vehicle effectively, further highlighting the importance of the body structure and the effect it has on the dynamic performance of the car.
Aston Martin's engineering teams have worked particularly hard to minimise the weight outside the wheelbase of the new car to reduce yaw inertia. As a result, carbon fibre has been used extensively in the rear structure and the weight of the aluminium front structure has been limited.
To take full advantage of its precise and rigid architecture, the Aston Martin Vanquish Volante employs a battery of sophisticated technologies including Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) and Positive Torque Control (PTC).
Aston Martin's Adaptive Damping System (ADS) allows the driver to switch between three distinct damping modes: Normal, Sport and Track, delivering instant adjustment of the car's ride and handling characteristics.
The ADS automatically alters the suspension settings to ensure the driver has high levels of control at all times, with the ability to respond quickly to different driving conditions. The different damping modes available help significantly broaden the Aston Martin Vanquish Volante's character, adapting its set-up to suit the driver's mood and requirements. Thus it can be a cruising GT car in Normal mode with the capacity to morph into an assertive sports car in Sport and Track modes.
The damper settings are determined by an electronic control unit which takes sensor readings from the car's systems including throttle position, brake position, steering wheel rotation and vehicle speed. This data establishes the prevailing driving conditions and the demands the driver is making on the car.
Steering, too, is crisp, precise and communicative. The rack's quick 15:1 ratio - 2.6 turns lock-to-lock - is allied to speed sensitive power assistance that's tuned to deliver optimum assistance.
The car's braking system features third generation Brembo Carbon Ceramic Matrix (CCM) parts to deliver shorter stopping distances with resistance to fade in even the most demanding driving conditions. CCM brakes are also lighter than a conventional system, reducing the weight of the car overall and, in particular, the unsprung weight and rotational masses, further enhancing the performance of the suspension.
The front brakes use 398 mm x 36 mm CCM discs with larger front pads and six-piston callipers from the One-77, while the rear brakes use 360 mm x 32 mm CCM discs with four-piston callipers.
Aston Martin CEO Dr Ulrich Bez added: "Vanquish Volante, like the Vanquish coupe before it, uses the very latest technologies employed in the very best ways to create a sports car which is easy to control, and to enjoy dynamic performance at the finest level.
"This is not simply a great-looking car - this is a great car engineered and crafted for the connoisseur by people dedicated to delivering exceptional sports cars with clearly defined characters."
Priced from £199,995 RRP in the UK; €264,995 RRP in Germany; $297,995 MSRP in the United States and $323,974 RRP in Dubai, first deliveries of the new sports car are expected to begin in the UK and Continental Europe late in 2013.
source : Aston Martin Press
2013 Tesla Model S
Tesla Model S is the first premium sedan designed from the ground up to take full advantage of electric vehicle architecture. A revolutionary powertrain sits under the floorboard of Tesla Model S, creating an ultra-low center of gravity. Paired with an aluminum body engineered for superior handling, Tesla has created a vehicle that will raise the bar for vehicle handling and efficiency while meeting the highest standards for safety.
With the most energy-dense battery pack in the industry and best-in-class aerodynamics, Model S has the longest range of any production electric car in the world. Model S comes with three battery options to fit the unique needs of different drivers. The 85 kWh Model S has received a US fuel economy rating of 89 MPGe and an EPA rated range of 265 miles.
Without an internal combustion engine or transmission tunnel, the interior of Tesla Model S has more cargo space than any other sedan in its class and includes a second trunk under the hood. Tesla Model S seats five adults and two children in optional rear-facing child seats. The Performance Model S accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in as little as 4.4 seconds. The interior features a 17" in-dash touchscreen with internet capabilities, allowing for streaming radio, web browsing and navigation.
Equipped with Tesla's advanced electric powertrain, Tesla Model S provides instant torque and smooth acceleration from 0-97 km/h in 4.4 seconds. The aluminum body is engineered for superior handling, safety and efficiency. With the most energy dense battery pack in the industry, and best-in-class aerodynamics, Tesla Model S has the longest range of any electric car in the world, up to 480 km on a single charge.
Tesla Motors delivered Model S, the world's first premium electric sedan, to its first customers at an invitation-only event at the Tesla Factory in Fremont, California on June 22, 2012. Deliveries of Tesla Model S in Europe and Asia will begin in early and mid-2013, respectively.
Pricing
The base price of the Tesla Model S in the US is $49,900 after available federal tax credits of $7,500. Model S customers may also qualify for state tax credits, rebates, sales tax exemptions, free parking, commuter-lane passes and other perks.
source : Tesla Press
2012 McLaren MP4-C12 Art Style by Hamann
| Grass-green Porsches, neon yellow Lamborghinis and even luminous red Ferraris will soon fade away into the background on most streets, as the latest creation from Hamann Motorsport steals the show. With the "memoR", Hamann - the specialists for unique super sports cars - presents an exquisitely colourful McLaren MP4-12C with typical Hamann bodywork. With the stage set like this, the refined two-seater will transform ugly streets into palatial catwalks, clothing its passengers in magnificent haute couture. Naturally, this opulent explosion of colour also conceals an aerodynamics package second to none. The standard version of the McLaren doesn't hold back with its visual charms either, presenting itself as a dynamic mid-engine sports car. Hamann takes up the existing lines of the car's carbon chassis and supplements its body elements with stylistic borrowings from the 1995 winner at LeMans, the McLaren F1, comprehensively transforming the front end, with new carbon mudguards, air outlets and expressive front apron replacing the original components. The LED daytime running lights and carbon front spoiler integrated into the front of the car are particular highlights here. The newly developed attachments for the side aprons and doors form a visual and aerodynamic link between the vehicle's axles. Larger air inlets on the flanks of the car, as well as a carbon bonnet underscore the car's powerful design. Roof scoop, rear wings and the rear apron with recesses for the three tailpipes of the exhaust system round off the imposing appearance of the "memoR". During the complex modification process, the engineers paid special attention to ensuring the car's light weight. To achieve this, Hamann makes ample use of the extremely light - yet ultra-strong - material of carbon, which, because of its positive properties, can be found in abundance in the basic model too. To perfect the car's overall appearance, Hamann has fitted "Unique Forged formula" forged rims. These one-piece, ultra-light aluminium wheels with centerlock-look come in size 9.5 x 21 with size 255/30 ZR 21 tyres at the front and size 12.5 x 21 with 355/25 ZR 21 tyres at the rear axle. But that's not all - the car's interior too is upgraded to become a desirable, unique automotive specimen. Whether you opt for elegant or sporty, carbon or wood, leather or Alcantara - Hamann has just the right thing for your interior tastes. Hamann's own upholsterers can, on request, design whatever the customer fancies: from personalised foot mats to a full leather interior, all made with precision craftsmanship. Individually designed and integrated into the "memoR" by the best master craftsmen. The conversion of a standard McLaren MP4-12C into this piece of art starts at 95.000 Euro plus tax. |
source : McLaren Press
Dodge Avenger Blacktop Edition
2013 Dodge Avenger Blacktop Edition
November 4, 2012. America's most affordable and powerful mid-size sedan, the Dodge Avenger, gets a menacing new look and a distinct set of new features with the Blacktop package, which also offers incredible value with a U.S. MSRP of just $595.
Available in Black, Redline Red 2, Bright White, Tungsten Metallic and Billet Silver Metallic, the 2013 Dodge Avenger Blacktop is based on the 2013 Dodge Avenger SXT model and adds standard 18-inch Gloss Black aluminum wheels with Gloss Black center caps, Gloss Black front grille, dark-tinted headlamp bezels and a body-color rear spoiler.
Additional standard features on the Avenger with the Blacktop package include: a six-speed automatic transmission with Auto Stick that delivers up to 31 mpg, automatic headlamps, projector fog lamps, eight-way power driver seat, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, six speakers, automatic temperature control, body-color heated exterior mirrors, SiriusXM Radio, Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC), four-wheel disc anti-lock (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), six airbags and much more.
For an added dose of luxury with the customized black appearance, Avenger Blacktop offers a premium leather interior with heated front seats for only $400 MSRP, making Avenger the most affordable mid-size car with leather in the United States.
Available optional equipment includes: the 3.6-liter variable-valve timing Pentastar V-6 engine, which produces a best-in-class 283 horsepower and 260 lb.-ft. of torque while providing impressive V-6 highway fuel economy of 29 miles per gallon (mpg), power sunroof, premium audio system and 6.5-inch touch screen with Navigation.
The 2013 Dodge Avenger offers great value with loads of standard features that customers appreciate and a starting U.S. MSRP of only $18,995. The Dodge Avenger was named an Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) "Top Safety Pick" in 2012, the fourth consecutive year the Avenger has been named a "Top Safety Pick."
source : Dodge Press
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