2013 Ferrari F12 berlinetta

Ferrari F12berlinetta

The on-line unveiling of the Ferrari F12berlinetta ushers in a new generation of Ferrari 12-cylinders in the form of a car that delivers unprecedented performance from an exceptional new engine, combined with innovative design that redefines classic themes along with extreme aerodynamics.

Revealed to the world for the first time on Ferrari.com in preparation for its official debut at the 2012 Geneva International Motor Show, the Ferrari F12berlinetta, finished in an attractive new Rosso Berlinetta three-layer colour, represents the very cutting-edge of mid-front-engined sports cars.

This is, in fact, the most powerful and high-performance Ferrari road car ever launched thanks to the incredibly efficient engine - in terms of mechanical, combustion and fluid-dynamics efficiency - which, together with advanced vehicle architecture, aerodynamics, components and electronic controls, guarantee unsurpassed driving involvement whatever the road or track.

Ferrari's traditional transaxle layout has been revolutionised to match the more extreme performance of the car. The wheelbase has been shortened and the engine, dashboard and seats have been lowered in the chassis, while the new layout of the rear suspension and gearbox enabled Ferrari's engineers to make the rear volume of the car smaller. The overall result is a very compact car with a lower centre of gravity that is further back in the chassis, and a level of aerodynamic efficiency that sets new standards.

Scaglietti, renowned for its expertise in aluminium materials and construction, designed an all-new spaceframe chassis and bodyshell using 12 different kinds of alloys, some of which have been used here for the first time in the automotive sector, and employing new assembly and joining techniques. This has resulted in a 20 per cent increase in structural rigidity while reducing weight to just 1525 kg (70 kg less than the previous V12 coupé) with an ideal distribution between the axles (54 per cent over the rear).

The Ferrari F12berlinetta's 6262cc 65° V12 engine delivers unprecedented performance and revs for a naturally-aspirated 12-cylinder. Its maximum power output is 740 CV which translates to a specific output of 118 CV/l. Torque reaches a peak of 690 Nm, 80 per cent of which is already available at just 2,500 rpm, and which provides an unrelenting surge of acceleration all the way to the 8,700 rpm limit. The engine is mated to the F1 dual-clutch transmission, which has closer gear ratios developed specifically for this car's performance. The Ferrari F12berlinetta boasts a weight-to-power ratio of just 2.1 kg/CV.

Fuel consumption has been reduced by 30%, with CO2 emissions of just 350 g/km - figures which put the Ferrari F12berlinetta at the top of the high-performance league. These results have been obtained by extensive research and development which focused on efficiencies of the whole vehicle: engine, aerodynamics, tyres and weights.

Similarly excellent results have been obtained with the car's aerodynamic development, thanks to the integration of the design process with extensive computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations and lengthy testing in the wind tunnel. Downforce has been boosted by 76 per cent (123 kg at 200 km/h) while drag has been significantly reduced (the Cd is just 0.299). These results come courtesy of two new solutions. The first of these is the Aero Bridge which uses the bonnet to generate downforce by channelling air away from the upper part of the car to its flanks where it interacts with the wake from the wheel wells to decrease drag. The second is Active Brake Cooling, a system that opens guide vanes to the brake cooling ducts only at high operating temperatures, again reducing drag.

The Ferrari F12berlinetta's impressive technical specifications are completed by Ferrari's latest generation carbon-ceramic brakes (CCM3) and the evolution of the magnetorheological suspension control system (SCM-E). As is now traditional with all Ferraris, its control systems (E-Diff, ESP Premium, F1-Trac, and high-performance ABS) are all fully integrated.

The result is that the new Prancing Horse 12-cylinder accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 3.1 seconds and from 0 to 200 km/h in 8.5 seconds. It also completes a lap of the Fiorano circuit in 1'23", faster than any other Ferrari road car. Benchmark performance and maximum driving involvement are guaranteed by immediate turn-in, with smaller steering wheel angles, and increased cornering speed. Stopping distances have also been drastically reduced.

The design of the Ferrari F12berlinetta is a result of the collaboration between the Ferrari Styling Centre and Pininfarina and is a perfect balance of uncompromising aerodynamics with harmonious proportions interpreting the typical elements of Ferrari's front-engined V12 cars in an original and innovative way. A coupé with sleek, aggressive lines whose compact exterior dimensions conceal exceptional in-car space and comfort. The all-new Frau leather interior highlights the balance of advanced technology and sophisticated, handcrafted detailing. In the middle of the light and lean dashboard, there are new carbon fibre and aluminium air vents clearly inspired by the aeronautic field.

The cabin has been optimised to ensure maximum usability of the interior space with additional luggage capacity behind the seats, which can also be easily reached thanks to the large aperture offered by the tail-gate. With the cockpit designed around the driver, typical of all Ferraris, the Human Machine Interface approach is emphasised, grouping all the major commands within immediate reach to guarantee maximum ergonomics for the most involving driving experience.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

    Engine
        Type: 65-degree V12
        Total displacement: 6262 cc
        Maximum power output: 740 CV at 8500 rpm
        Maximum torque: 690 Nm at 6000 rpm
    Dimensions and weight
        Length: 4618 mm
        Width: 1942 mm
        Height: 1273 mm
        Dry weight: 1525 kg
        Weight distribution: 46% front, 54% rear
        Weight-power ratio: 2.1 kg/CV
    Performance
        Maximum speed: >340 km/h
        0-100 km/h: 3.1 s
    Fuel consumption and emissions (ECE + EUDC combined cycle)
        Consumption: 15l/100 km
        CO2: 350 g/km

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2013 FERRARI 458 Spider

The new Ferrari 458 Spider joins the 458 Italia, widening the range of Ferrari's mid-rear engined V8s and offering the same uncompromising technological solutions, handling and performance in a refined open-top configuration. It is equipped with a Ferrari patented, fully retractable hard top, a world first for a sports car with this lay-out.

The 458 Spider is powered by Ferrari's naturally-aspirated, direct-injection 4.5 litre V8 which was nominated as the 2011 International Engine of the Year for its engineering excellence in terms of driveability, performance, economy and refinement. The power is transferred to the road by Ferrari's class-leading dual-clutch F1 paddle-shift transmission through the sophisticated E-Diff, itself integrated with the F1-Trac traction control and high-performance ABS for maximum handling dynamics.

Certain features, such as its accelerator pedal mapping and the damping of the multilink suspension, have been calibrated to guarantee maximum sportiness and absolute driving pleasure with the top down, in line with Maranello's exclusive spider tradition. Even the engine soundtrack has been honed to ensure that the car's occupants are completely captivated by the drop-top driving experience.

Entirely in aluminium, the hard-top solution adopted for the Ferrari 458 Spider offers a number of advantages over the traditional folding soft-top, including a reduction of 25 kg in weight and a deployment time of just 14 seconds. Fully integrated into the styling of the car, the hard-top was engineered to fit neatly ahead of the engine bay without compromising aerodynamics or the performance of the car. The small space needed to house the roof enables the designers to include a generous rear bench for luggage behind the seats.

The rear of the car is characterised by innovative forms with the buttresses designed to optimise the flow of air to the engine intakes and the clutch and gearbox oil radiators. For maximum comfort whilst driving top down the Ferrari 458 Spider features a generously-sized adjustable electric wind stop. The design was perfected to slow and diffuse the air in the cockpit, enabling normal conversation to be held even at speeds over 200 km/h.

New technical solutions adopted for the chassis guarantee identical levels of structural rigidity with the roof up or down. The result is a car that is truly exciting to drive, blending extreme performance with the responsiveness that has always characterised Ferrari's open-top berlinettas. 

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2009 EDAG Light Car Concept

For the body concept of the EDAG Light Car Open Source, EDAG has broken new ground, and for the first time ever in automotive engineering, used ASA.TEC's innovative basalt fibre, a lightweight, stable and - above all - 100% recyclable material. Propulsion is taken care of by intelligent, electric drive systems in the wheels, which not only feature a high degree of efficiency to get the power of the lithium-ion batteries onto the road, but will also provide considerably greater creative scope for the vehicle package. In addition, with its innovative light concept, the EDAG Light Car Open Source will be one of the first vehicles to utilise (O)LED technology as an individually adaptable design and communication element.

As a design engineering company, the EDAG Group would like to apply its experience to contributing to the development of new vehicle concepts and processes. Rising energy prices, the CO2 discussion and the increase in demands for reasonably priced cars are all pressing questions which now, more than ever, call for innovative concepts. Since 1999, EDAG has, with its concept cars, been producing pragmatic ideas for the evolution of the automobile. Motivated by the current discussions about the cars of tomorrow and future direction of the automotive industry, EDAG has risked taking a visionary and courageous look towards the future. With the Light Car Open Source, EDAG gives possible answers to the question of how new materials, new body concepts and alternative drive systems can be implemented in the future, while conserving resources and keeping costs down for the manufacturer and customer alike.

The body: an individually adaptable desktop
With its innovative light concept and minimalised lighting technology, the EDAG Light Car Open Source is one of the first vehicles to use (O)LED technology as a variable design and communication element.

Not until it is started up does the EDAG Light Car Open Source, with a body that looks as though it is made of glass, come to life and reveal its true looks. In the glass panes, (O)LED lamps mark out the outlines of the headlights and rear lights on the "Light Car - Open Source". The driver can design the outlines of the lights to his individual taste to give the car a unique appearance, something he is already used to doing, from setting up his PC desktop. The driver also has a free hand when it comes to arranging his "workplace" in the cockpit. Whether he wants the tachometer in the middle or the climate control gauge on the right-hand side, the driver can individually configure his cockpit as far as size, position and style of the instruments is concerned.

"We have transferred today's multimedia and lighting technology standards to the car, and in future want to offer the customer scope for free configuration, as the entire surface of the vehicle functions like the monitor of a multimedia installation, and can be used intelligently and individually," explains Johannes Barckmann, Head of the EDAG Design Studio.

With the aid of state-of-the-art (O)LED technology, EDAG uses the transparent tailgate as a projection screen, making car-to-car communication visible and usable to all motorists. For instance, the braking force can be communicated to the next vehicle by means of an illuminated scale on the back of the car. Other information, such as a distance reading or if there is the tail end of a traffic jam ahead, can be clearly displayed on the back of the car, even if the vehicle behind does not have a car-to-car communication system of its own. Further, the driver of the car behind can see the information straight away, without needing to take his eyes off the road!

Innovative basalt fibre as material - rolling chassis as platform
With the choice of materials for EDAG Light Car Open Source, the emphasis is also on innovative solutions. Apart from the glass surfaces or alternatively Makrolon, the material of the future, the structure of the vehicle is predominantly of an innovative, industrially standardised basalt fibre (ASA.TEC fibre). This 100% recyclable and almost infinitely available raw material is not just lighter and less costly than aluminium or carbon, but also has practically the same strength properties as conventional materials. This new quality of basalt fibre, which is to be utilised in the construction of rotors for large-scale wind power plants in the future, can now be put to systematic use in the automotive industry. This type of basalt fibre therefore has the potential for becoming a main structural element and thus being used as a future lightweight material in cars for the high volume market.

The body concept of the EDAG Light Car Open Source is based on a rolling chassis - a genuine, universal platform to which the modules for various bodies can be added. This enables vehicle derivatives to be developed more quickly and at lower cost.

One hundred percent monovalent!
The drive concept of the light car is based on an all-electric, monovalent drive system with a range of up to 150 kilometres, making it eminently suitable for everyday use. The matter of propulsion is taken care of by intelligent, electric drive systems in the wheels, which not only feature a high degree of efficiency to get the power of the lithium-ion batteries in the rolling chassis onto the road, but will also provide considerably greater creative scope for the vehicle package. This is made possible by a system integrated in the wheels, which consolidates a number of functions: steering, brakes, drive and suspension.

The light car's exterior dimensions - 4 metres long and 1.70 metres wide - put it in the compact car size range, and as both engine and gearbox have been eliminated, the wheelbase - 2.90 metres - has been brought up to luxury class level, with enough space to seat five passengers in comfort.

Open source
The new lightweight material, standardised basalt fibre, an electric drive system, rolling chassis and - last but not least - the innovative lighting concept offer great potential for a new vehicle concept. Many of the technologies shown today are still in the early stages of their development. For this reason, EDAG regards this as an open source project, and approaches other companies with which it can then work on the development of the EDAG Light Car. The company has made a deliberate decision to address itself to a wide circle, thus enabling new notions to be absorbed in the car of the future. Computer and software developers are to apply their new technologies in exactly the same way as ASA.TEC basalt fibre, (O)LED technology or electric drive specialists do.

With EDAG's expertise in vehicle and production plant development, and the integration of system suppliers in complex complete development projects, the Fulda company will be playing the leading role in the development of the open source project. The company's all-round understanding of product and production will help EDAG to develop pragmatic solutions, particularly regarding savings potential when it comes to product costs.

With Light Car Open Source, the EDAG Group intends not only to substantiate its claims to being an innovative engineering partner to the automotive industry, but also to stimulate the discussion of ways and means of satisfying future consumer demands - ecological and economical - on the next generation of cars.

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2013 Ford Taurus SHO

Ford Taurus SHO

The new Ford Taurus SHO is the sportiest Taurus yet to wear the coveted performance badge. With its unique blend of the award-winning, fuel-efficient EcoBoost™ engine, enhanced driving dynamics and performance-inspired design, the new Ford Taurus SHO shows it means business. An unprecedented combination of horsepower, technology and fuel economy takes this acclaimed sporting sedan to a whole new level.

"The Taurus SHO has always followed the original formula of stealthy sleeper, and the new model is no exception," said Gordon Platto, chief designer. "We wanted to keep the subtle, understated, yet sporty elegance, but at the same time we knew it was time to even more fully differentiate the Super High Output model from other Taurus series models."

Inspired by SHO buyers and club enthusiasts, the design team knew just what to do.

"Listening to SHO buyers and enthusiasts encouraged us to strengthen the design and the driving quality for the new 2013 model," said Platto. "For us, this was a clear indication that SHO customers have passionate feelings about aesthetics and design as well as performance."

Distinctive design, signature technology

For the new Ford Taurus SHO, subtle differentiation from the other members of the Taurus family starts up front, with a performance-inspired grille in black mesh - unique to the SHO - flanked by series-specific high-intensity discharge headlamps. Behind the front wheel openings, a fender-mounted scallop contains a subtle SHO badge.

Unique 19-inch premium painted wheels wearing standard P255/45VR-19 all-season tires fill out the openings, giving Ford Taurus SHO a muscular, athletic look. Buyers can choose 20-inch machined and painted wheels.

SHO-specific sideview mirrors - also in contrasting black - are heated, have memory functionality and contain downward-facing puddle lamps; the driver's side features auto-dimming. In the rear, Ford Taurus SHO features a unique decklid-mounted spoiler.

Inside, the new Ford Taurus SHO communicates its sporty characteristics with a perforated leather-wrapped steering wheel, leather-trimmed sport seats with embroidered SHO graphics, unique woven aluminum trim and adjustable aluminum pedals with memory.

Signature Ford technology is also a key attribute of the new Ford Taurus SHO, with the addition of standard MyFord Touch™ powered by SYNC® driver connect technology and the replacement of several traditional knobs and controls with clear, colorful LCD screens and five-way buttons. These screens can be personalized to display information relevant to each individual driver using voice command, a simple button click or touch-screen tap.

MyFord Touch is powered by the latest generation of Ford's award-winning SYNC, including sophisticated voice control for vehicle functions, connected Bluetooth® devices, MP3 players and a wide variety of external media.

Enhanced powertrain, refined dynamics

The new Taurus SHO drivetrain continues to use the award-winning and fuel-efficient 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6, delivering 365 horsepower and 350 lb.-ft. of torque, mated to a six-speed high-capacity 6F55 SelectShift Automatic™ transmission.

Steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters enable the Ford Taurus SHO to match revs for smooth, quick, manually selected downshifts. For the new model, these have been reconfigured for more intuitive operation, with one paddle for upshifts and the other for making smooth, matched-rev downshifts.

SHO dynamics have been enhanced with larger brakes, torque vectoring control - using slight braking to provide the effect of a limited-slip differential - and unique sport-tuned suspension.

Specially calibrated electric power-assisted steering (EPAS) has been further optimized for enthusiast-pleasing road feel and direct, communicative response. In addition to helping Ford Taurus SHO deliver up to 25 mpg highway, EPAS enables the car to park itself with active park assist.

Taurus SHO brake system upgrades include a larger master cylinder, revised booster tuning for improved pedal feel, larger front rotors with 19 percent more thermal mass and 67 percent more swept area to help brakes run cooler. Now vented, the rear disc brakes offer 53 percent more thermal mass.

As with the previous edition, all Ford Taurus SHO models come standard with an advanced torque-sensing all-wheel-drive system to help deliver optimum traction in all weather conditions and to enable the vehicle to efficiently deliver ample torque through all four driven wheels when driving in a sporty, enthusiastic manner.

Loyalist input brings new customers

Direct, unfiltered feedback from the Ford Taurus SHO enthusiast community and input from buyers of this reinvented icon reinforced the idea that evolving the SHO was a very good thing indeed.

"The SHO enthusiast clubs and dedicated online forums were supportive resources for us," said Amy Marentic, group marketing manager. "In the interim, our relationship with the enthusiast community has continued to evolve, inspiring us to deliver an even better SHO with the next generation."

Ford Taurus SHO builds on a platform of customer satisfaction.

"Initial Quality Study data from J.D. Power and Associates showed that the 2010 Taurus SHO gained phenomenal acceptance, as 92 percent of customers were satisfied with their vehicles," said Marentic. "In addition, Taurus SHO delivered new customers to the Ford showroom at an incredible rate. Roughly half of 2010 SHO customers had not previously considered nor shopped Ford. We frequently see high-end sedans - 3-Series and 5-Series BMWs and Acura TLs - as trade-ins."

Ford Taurus SHO is drawing new shoppers to the Ford showroom, based on its unmatched combination of 365 twin-turbocharged EcoBoost horsepower, torque-sensing all-wheel drive, available technologies and up to 25 EPA-rated mpg on the highway.

SHO Performance Package

For discriminating automotive performance enthusiasts demanding the ultimate in uncompromised dynamics and response, the 2013 Taurus SHO offers a new Performance Package that is engineered to deliver greater handling responsiveness, power and durability under more sporting driving conditions.

The SHO Performance Package includes:

• Package-specific sport-tuned suspension with unique dampers and springs
• Performance brake pads and unique track-tuned calipers
• Recalibrated EPAS
• Electronic Stability Control track mode with true off
• 3.16 to 1 final drive ratio for enhanced off-the-line acceleration
• Enhanced extreme-duty cooling system
• 20-inch machined and painted wheels
• 245/YR20 performance summer-compound tires

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2013 Fiat Viaggio

Fiat Viaggio

The all-new premium class Fiat Viaggio sedan's debut is without a doubt one of the eye-catchers at the 2012 Beijing International Auto Show. The Fiat Viaggio symbolises an ideal journey between Italy and China, and its Chinese name Fei Xiang reinforces the message, evoking the experience of a flying dream towards the discovery of a new lifestyle totally befitting the brand positioning La Vita è Bella (life is beautiful) which embodies the Italian philosophy of living life to the fullest with passion and style.

Design

Inspired by Italian design, the new Fiat Viaggio teams modern-day fashion elements with a note of lasting classics that add to the passionate Italian legend. Designed by Fiat Group's Style Centre in Turin, the Fiat Viaggio has a timeless, clean-surfaced expressive exterior design that blends fluid and curvaceous forms with strong proportions. A contemporary Fiat "face" ensures unmistakable brand identity. Rear tail lamps with refined LED lights deliver an image of superior quality.

The Fiat Viaggio is tastefully designed inside and out with discernible Italian style. Fiat designed the Viaggio to be a world compact sedan unlike any others in its segment. Equipped with the overall dimensions which are "lower, wider, and longer" inherited from the architecture and platform upon which it is based, the Fiat Viaggio affords a dynamic appeal tuned to bring class-leading ride and handling.

An extended C-pillar enables a sleek silhouette. The abundance of elegant chrome details (from the entry trim level) gives the Fiat Viaggio a highly sophisticated look.

The on-board experience is characterised by a "driver centric" interior design: a unique "floating island bezel" which combines the cluster and centre stack and helps distinguish the interior from others. No films, faux woods, or imitation metals: the dashboard boasts a clean, appliqué-free execution (featuring high-quality soft-touch surfacing with tactile grains in an elegant and warm dual tone (black/beige) cabin. Premium quality materials result in premium tactility. A balanced presence of chrome details and silver-plated elements add brightness and a touch of sophistication to the elegant dashboard. On top trim levels, the presence of the 8.4 inches touchscreen radio navigation unit adds to the sophisticated environment a top high-tech feature unique to the segment.

Cutting-edge technology

Measuring 4,679 mm in length, 1,850 mm in overall width and with a 2,708 mm wheelbase, the Fiat Viaggio is the new C-segment benchmark. With this car, Fiat brings the very best of its technological know-how, design and refinement to the biggest selling segment in China.

The new four-dour, five-seater Fiat Viaggio sedan is based on the CUSW (Compact US Wide) architecture. It is the most advanced within the Fiat Group, and it is also the basis of the new Dodge Dart, presented at the Detroit Motor Show in January 2012. The CUSW architecture is, in turn, derived from the Compact architecture originally developed for the best-selling Alfa Romeo Giulietta, a framework that enables the Italians and the Americans to share technologies and components and most of all best practices for engineering and design capabilities.

Based on this platform, the Fiat Viaggio is tuned to bring class-leading ride and handling with uncompromised comfort for all its occupants. With excellent driving dynamics, exceptional safety performance, outstanding trim levels and finishes, Fiat is ready to spoil the most demanding Chinese customers with a unique blend of power, fuel efficiency, sophistication, technology and vehicle dynamics.

The Fiat Viaggio will be the only car in its segment to offer exclusively sophisticated Turbo engines (1.4L T-Jet 120 HP and 150 HP) on the Chinese market, securing performances that anybody would expect from bigger displacement engines without compromising on fuel economy and maintenance costs. Teamed with the T-Jet Turbo engine is Fiat's latest generation 6 speed dual dry clutch transmission, and alternatively the well-tested 5-gear manual transmission.


Target

The Fiat Viaggio is positioned in the most competitive mid-class segment in China's automotive market, targeting potential consumers with a passion for life. Enthusiastic, responsible, daring to dream and persistent: they are young and styling, having grown up in the cities and set to become the backbone of Chinese society.

World Class Manufacturing

As the first Fiat-Chrysler joint project, the Fiat Viaggio will be produced in the new GAC Fiat production plant in Changsha, in the Hunan province.

The new production plants implements the World Class Manufacturing standards, a way of working that all Fiat and Chrysler plants world-wide have embraced in order to achieve zero accidents, zero defects, zero stocks and zero breakdowns.

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2013 Dodge SRT Viper GTS-R

Dodge SRT Viper GTS-R

The street legal 2013 SRT Viper unveiled to the world at the 2012 New York International Auto Show isn't the only high-performance snake making a triumphant return in 2012.

The purpose-built, non-street legal and competition-ready SRT Viper GTS-R also was revealed as part of the Chrysler Group's announcement that a factory-backed SRT Viper Racing team will return to the American Le Mans Series (ALMS) in 2012.

"Racing has been a significant part of the illustrious history of Viper not only with wins on the track, but also in the continued development of the street cars - and our new 2013 SRT Viper models are proof of those lessons learned," said Ralph Gilles, President and CEO - Street and Racing Technology Brand and Motorsports, Chrysler Group LLC. "Now with our new team and the launch of the GTS-R, we're excited and proud to begin writing more chapters in the racing history of the Viper later this summer."

SRT Motorsports has partnered with Riley Technologies, based in Mooresville, N.C., on the design-and-build process of the new SRT Viper GTS-R.

Two identical SRT Viper GTS-Rs will compete in the production-based GT class in the series. Four drivers currently are signed to drive including Dominik Farnbacher, from Ansbach, Germany; Marc Goossens from Geel, Belgium; Ryan Hunter-Reay from Dallas and Kuno Wittmer from Montreal. Additional driver and team announcements will be forthcoming.

Both Viper GTS-Rs will race on the proven Michelin GT tires extending the successful technical partnership.

Scott Atherton, President and CEO of the American Le Mans Series, hails the SRT Viper's return to the Series as one of 2012's top announcements.

"I don't think it's possible to overstate the significance of the SRT Viper returning to the top level of professional sports car racing," Atherton said. "The Chrysler Group has a long, storied and very successful history of competing with the American Le Mans Series. The fact that they're coming back concurrently with the introduction of the new production car and doing it simultaneously, we would be hard-pressed to come up with a better-case scenario. What a great way for SRT Viper to come back to racing."

All ALMS teams compete in the prestigious MICHELIN GREEN X Challenge. Entering its fourth season, the program objectively ranks the competing cars in terms of their environmental footprint, their energy efficiency and speed on the racetrack. A separate, season-long award is given by the U.S. Department of Energy, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and SAE International, acknowledging the vehicle manufacturer and its technology contribution to improving efficiency and reducing environmental impacts of racing. The scoring system for the program was developed by series officials and the U.S. Department of Energy, and it is based on a combination of on-track performance and energy consumption. The LMP and GT teams that win MICHELIN GREEN X Challenge championship will earn an entry to the 2013 24 Hours of Le Mans.

"We often say it's clean, fast and efficient," Bob Larsen, president of Obotech and a contractor for the U.S. Department of Energy, said. "There's a lot of science that goes into the actual scoring, a very thorough and technically rigorous way to factor in the environmental footprint. We look at each car's average speed and the distance that they travel and we adjust their amount of fuel that they would have had to burn in order to go as fast and as far as the leader, and that gives us an equitable basis for comparing the performance of the vehicles."

Viper racing heritage

The Viper has enjoyed a successful racing heritage that began in 1996 with the first Dodge Viper racing entry, the original GTS-R, which earned five international GT championships and the 1997-1999 FIA GT championships. It also posted an amazing overall win at the Rolex 24 Hours of Daytona in 2000 - the first for a production-based American car.

Viper finished one-two at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in GTS class in three consecutive years - 1998-2000 - and also captured GTS class, and driver's championships in the American Le Mans Series in 1999 along with the Series class, manufacturer's and driver's championships in 2000.

The Dodge Viper Competition Coupe, introduced in 2003, delivered the next chapter of that history with its coupe-shaped carbon/Kevlar body and a track-ready chassis, based on the Dodge Viper SRT10. The Viper Competition Coupe continued the on-track prowess by capturing the 2004 SCCA Speed World Challenge GT title, championships in Formula D Drifting series in 2004 and 2006 and the British GT Championship in 2007 and 2008.

In 2010, the Dodge Viper Cup Series was founded using the limited-edition Dodge Viper ACR-X spec series cars. In 2012, now in its third year, the series has been renamed the SRT Viper Cup Series.

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2013 Dacia Lodgy

 

Dacia Lodgy

Once again, Dacia is flouting convention by offering genuine five- and seven-seater variants of the new Dacia Lodgy from just €9,900, a revolutionary price for a car of this type.

SPACIOUS AND PRACTICAL

Lodgy is stamped with Dacia's trademark DNA: unbeatable value for money, reliability and practicality. Measuring 4.5 metres in length and 1.75 in width, Dacia Lodgy's contours and proportions above all reflect its size and strength. With the grille moulded around the Dacia logo and sharp lines that highlight the sculptured wheel arches, Lodgy provides a preview of Dacia's new corporate look. Optimal use of Lodgy's generous external dimensions has created a roomy interior, with the result that each of its seven seats can accommodate a passenger in total comfort. The third row features class-leading space in terms of knee and head room (144 and 866mm respectively), which is more than enough to seat two adults comfortably. The two rearmost seats are equipped with Isofix fittings, so that child seats and booster cushions can be attached safely and securely. Lodgy's modular interior is particularly versatile. In seven-seat configuration, the third-row bench seat can be removed completely or else folded up against the front seat backs, depending on the requirements of the moment.

The size of Dacia Lodgy's spacious boot will not come as a surprise to those who are familiar the Dacia brand. Indeed, it one of the biggest in its segment, with capacity ranging from 2,617dm3 in two-seat configuration, to 827dm3 as a five-seater and 207dm3 when all seven seats are installed. Lodgy also features 30 litres of storage space in the cabin, in the form of various pockets and cubbies. Of particular note are the new, three-litre area on top of the dashboard and, in the back, a drinks holder and large storage pocket.

A DACIA FOR THE TODAY'S GENERATION

Dacia Lodgy heralds the arrival of a new generation of Dacia vehicles, a range that will benefit from attractively designed interiors and modern equipment. Great care has been taken to express the cars' inherent strengths, with sophisticated materials featuring ever more widely as you move up the range (notably chrome detailing), high quality fit-and-finish and ergonomically placed controls. In line with Dacia's philosophy, standard features are added in a straightforward, comprehensible manner as you move up the range. As always, the specification is carefully tailored to stick as closely as possible to what customers really want.

Innovative, practical technology

Dacia Lodgy features a brand-new multimedia system: MEDIA NAV. Competitively priced in the brand's tradition, at an unbeatable €430, MEDIA NAV incorporates a radio, auxiliary sockets (for MP3 players, etc), Bluetooth connectivity and satellite navigation via a seven-inch (18cm) touch-sensitive display. The main menu permits simple access to six essential functions: radio, media, telephone, route map, satellite navigation and settings. Thanks to Bluetooth® technology, drivers can make hands-free telephone calls and synchronise their contacts book and previous call registry. It is also possible to audio-stream remote music players through the car's own speaker system. Furthermore, there is the option of connecting an iPod or smartphone through USB or jack sockets located on the dash panel. They can be operated via either the touch-sensitive display or the steering wheel-mounted controls, while track titles are displayed on the MEDIA NAV screen.

The intuitive navigation system has both 2D and 3D (Birdview) graphics. A dedicated website enables drivers to access information updates and upload them via the USB port.

In keeping with the spirit of the Dacia brand, which makes a point of providing customers with equipment they really need, a second multimedia option is available: Dacia-Plug&Radio.

This system features a new radio with large screen, an MP3-compatible CD player, Bluetooth® technology, dash-mounted USB and jack sockets and steering wheel-mounted fingertip remote controls.

Dacia Lodgy incorporates another feature that is new to the Dacia range - a speed limiter, available on higher trim specifications. This device permits drivers to programme a maximum speed they do not want to exceed, enabling journeys to be completed in stress-free safety.

And while on the subject of giving customers a range of technology suited to their needs, some versions of Lodgy are fitted with rear parking sensors - a practical touch on large vehicles of this type.

A REVISED ENGINE RANGE

Dacia Lodgy is available with a selection of petrol and diesel engines that will suit the needs of customers in all the countries where the model is marketed. There are two petrol engines: the 1.6 MPI and the new, turbocharged TCe 115 with direct fuel injection. The TCe 115 represents the Renault Group's very best petrol engine technology, including the turbocharged, direct-injection combination first introduced with the Mégane and Scénic Collection 2012 line-ups. With its 1.2-litre capacity, but the kind of performance more usually associated with a 1.6, the TCe 115 combines an impressive driving experience with excellent fuel economy and low CO2 emissions. There are also two diesels, both based on the 1.5 dCi block that has received worldwide acclaim for its reliability and performance. The dCi 90 and dCi 110 powerplants qualify for the Dacia eco² signature - a symbol of low fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.

Widely acknowledged by customers and the media, reliability is a core element of Dacia Lodgy's DNA. Like other members of the Dacia family, the newcomer benefits from technology that is well proven on other Renault Group vehicles. During pre-launch endurance tests, the equivalent of 1.9 million kilometres was covered in extremely demanding climates and conditions: the result is a car with a comprehensive range of features and peerless reliability.

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2010 Daewoo Matiz Creative

Daewoo Matiz Creative

GM Daewoo Auto & Technology (GM Daewoo) launched its all-new global mini-car, the GM Daewoo Matiz Creative. The new mini will go on sale on September 1st, 2009.

"The GM Daewoo Matiz Creative is an all-new mini-car developed at GM Daewoo, the global vehicle development center for GM's mini and small cars," said Michael Grimaldi, President and CEO of GM Daewoo. "With its best-in-segment design, performance and safety, the new mini is destined to become an industry benchmark and a winner among consumers in Korea and around the world."

Based on GM's global mini-vehicle architecture, it took 27 months to develop the GM Daewoo Matiz Creative. KRW 295 billion has been invested in the vehicle's development. Following its launch in Korea, the global mini will be sold in over 150 markets around the world including those in Europe, Asia and North America.

Aimed at meeting the highest quality and performance standards in the most sophisticated markets, the global vehicle was put through over 1 million kilometers of intensive durability tests, extreme weather tests, and crash tests both at home and abroad.

With roof-rail curtain air bags and high-strength and ultra-high-strength steel over a majority of its body, the GM Daewoo Matiz Creative ensures segment-leading occupant protection.

With a revolutionary design, advanced technology, segment-leading features and benchmark safety, the GM Daewoo Matiz Creative offers much more than a mini.

Segment-Leading Size and a Dynamic Exterior

The GM Daewoo Matiz Creative is a car that is ideal for those with an urban lifestyle. With the styling of a sporty hatchback, it showcases the new direction of GM Daewoo design and a new trend in the design of mini-cars.

"Our clear goal from the very beginning was to create a revolution in size and design despite the restrictions of the mini segment," said Taewan Kim, Vice President of GM Daewoo Design. "We wanted to make a statement with an innovative design that would go far beyond a typical mini-vehicle and set new standards for the segment. This is not your average-looking mini-car."

The GM Daewoo Matiz Creative's roomy proportions and dynamic styling are courtesy of its segment-leading length of 3,595 mm, height of 1,520 mm, wheelbase of 2,375 mm, and width of 1,595 mm combined with its "body-in/wheels-out" stance. Dramatically sized headlamps that literally stretch from the front fascia to the back of the hood, with clear polycarbonate lenses and chrome-coated bezels, resemble diamonds, adding an upscale appearance and glamour.

A window line that is slanted dynamically upward, an arching roofline and sharp sidelines bring a sporty yet edgy look, a rarity in the segment. Secret vertical rear door handles located in the C-pillar are another unusual feature. They give the GM Daewoo Matiz Creative a unique, sporty three-door coupe appearance without sacrificing five-door utility.

A first-in-segment offering of an integrated rear spoiler as standard equipment essentially extends the rear roofline, for enhanced aerodynamic performance and provides a stable stance in high-speed driving as well as increased fuel efficiency. Round taillamps with clear polycarbonate lenses add to the GM Daewoo Matiz Creative's strong rear impression.

A chrome-coated radiator grille and fog lamps, outside mirrors with two-tone color, and a refined-looking roof rack are other design cues that transport the GM Daewoo Matiz Creative's styling beyond that of a mini.

GM Daewoo Matiz Creative buyers have a larger palette of exterior colors from which to choose. They may select one of the three sophisticated colors of silver, white or black or go for one of the more traditional mini colors of red, blue, green, brown, orange or ice blue.

Unique Interior Defined By Fun, Fashion and Functionality

The design revolution continues inside the GM Daewoo Matiz Creative. While pursuing a harmonious theme with the dynamic exterior, the interior is more about functionality.

With its wider track and longer wheelbase, the GM Daewoo Matiz Creative provides best-in-segment front legroom, rear legroom, front headroom and rear hiproom, resulting in generous space and comfortable accommodation for five adults.

The flowing interior weaves together the instrument panel, front seats and door trims, creating an environment that is harmonious, uninterrupted and inviting to the senses. An exterior-color-matched instrument panel and door trim appliqués offered in red, blue or silver enhance the unified design of the interior and exterior.

The most striking design element in the interior is a motorcycle-inspired dynamic meter cluster. The first-in-segment steering column-mounted instrument cluster combines analog and digital systems, contributing fun and unique styling as well as enhanced visibility and convenience. A trip computer in the dynamic meter cluster is another first-in-segment feature.

Adding to the refined look is an integrated center stack design that eliminates the traditional "picture framing" layout and results in a contemporary, stylish relationship. LED-lit ice blue illumination adds to the urban, edgy styling.

Pattern-printed semi-bucket seats provide a stable feeling when cornering. With high-quality materials and exceptional craftsmanship, they also enhance the luxurious interior atmosphere.

The GM Daewoo Matiz Creative provides upgraded functionality with features such as headrests that can be vertically adjusted up to 65 mm, carbon film-heated seats and various storage places.


New 1,000-cc DOHC Engine Delivers Power and Fuel Economy

Newly developed for the next-generation global mini at GM Daewoo, the S-TEC II engine - a 4-cylinder, 16-valve DOHC engine with a displacement of 1,000 cc - delivers great performance and fuel economy.

The S-TEC II engine includes a series of advanced features that enhance performance. The first-in-segment application of the PDA (Port De-Activation) system ensures high exhaust gas recirculation, resulting in combustion stability at low speeds and optimal performance at high speeds together with improved fuel efficiency. In addition, the PDA system contributes to a reduction in emissions, making the GM Daewoo Matiz Creative a truly eco-friendly vehicle that meets the stringent KULEV (Korea Ultra-Low Emission Vehicle) standard.

Another first-in-segment application is an automatic temperature controller inside the engine, which helps improve fuel efficiency by reducing unnecessary heat loss. A dome-type long-skirt cylinder block narrows the space between intake valves while the application of four resonators reduces engine noise.

Mated with the efficient S-TEC-II engine is a 4-speed automatic transmission tuned to GM's global standards that provides enhanced shifts for an outstanding ride.

Solid Structure and Advanced Chassis Ensure Pleasurable Ride and Handling

The ride and handling of the GM Daewoo Matiz Creative also set it apart from any other vehicle in its segment. Adopting the body-frame integral (BFI) system, the upper body structure and frame are engineered as a single unit, resulting in better feel of the road along with a heightened sense of firmness and stability, and enhanced connectivity between the driver and vehicle.

A McPherson strut front suspension combined with a four-point mounted long engine cradle and a width power reduction spring enhances the solidity of the entire chassis, for improved crash safety and driving performance. A rear compound crank torsion beam incorporates a tubular V-beam for more effective tuning and dynamic performance.

A first-in-segment triple acoustic absorbent structure and special underbody structure prevent noise inflow from outside, for optimal quietness. Wind noise is minimized through the GM Daewoo Matiz Creative's aerodynamic body line and detailed door sealing structure.


Benchmark Safety: Class-Transcending Use of High-Strength Steel

A host of structural enhancements combined with a full offering of active and passive safety systems makes the GM Daewoo Matiz Creative a segment leader in its class.

Its body is the stiffest in the mini segment; 66.5 percent of its body is constructed of high-strength steel or over 16 percent is comprised of ultra-high-strength steel. This ensures the highest level of protection in the segment. The solid structure will play a key role in securing expected four-star ratings in NCAP crash tests in Korea, Europe, and the U.S.

In addition, ultra-high-strength steel applied to the side structure minimizes the chance of the structure deforming in the event of a crash. High-strength steel is also used in the rear body structure to protect passengers as well as the fuel tank, minimizing the possibility of fuel leakage during a collision.

The four-point mounted long engine cradle protects passengers in the event of a head-on collision by optimally dispersing crash loads. The steering column features an extended impact protection zone to enhance protection of the driver's torso.

The use of H-spider type ultra-high-strength steel bars in the underbody prevents severe deformation caused by a side crash. The tailor-welded blanking method used in the B-pillar ensures maximum protection of passengers' upper bodies. High-strength steel in the rear and first-in-segment rear crash boxes minimize the impact of whiplash.

The roof is especially stiff, for maximum rollover protection. The GM Daewoo Matiz Creative has been developed to withstand up to four times its weight - which goes far beyond industry regulations. As a result, GM Daewoo expects the Matiz Creative to receive the highest ratings in IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) crash testing in the U.S.

GM Daewoo engineers also factored in pedestrian safety. Ample space between the engine and hood reduces the chance of a secondary collision, meeting European safety regulations for the protection of pedestrians.

The first-in-segment application of front-end crash boxes for greater passenger protection adds an economical factor as customers will need to change only the crash boxes instead of repairing the entire vehicle in the case of a low-speed crash. As a result, the vehicle is expected to receive a good grade in the RCAR (Research Council for Automobile Repairs) test for determining customer insurance fees.

Besides driver, front passenger and side air bags, the GM Daewoo Matiz Creative also offers first-in-segment curtain air bags mounted on the roof rails to protect both front and back seat occupants. A 4-channel/4-sensor EBD-ABS system reduces braking distance and helps prevent skidding and rollover. Other safety highlights include seatbelt pre-tensioners, shock-sensitive door locks and rear parking assist sensors with a broad range.

Premium Convenience Features Go "Beyond Mini"

The GM Daewoo Matiz Creative features an array of premium comfort and convenience amenities that one would expect in more expensive vehicles, including:

Heated windshield wipers
Roof rack
Heated automatic outside mirror
Speed-sensitive automatic door locks
Tilt steering and a driver's seat armrest
A particle filter for a pleasant dust-free interior
6:4 folding seats
A wireless remote start key
Various storage places
A tire sealant compressor kit

The GM Daewoo Matiz Creative comes in three trim levels: Pop, Jazz, and Groove. It is priced from KRW 9.06 million for the entry-level Pop, from 9.44 million for the Jazz and from KRW 10.09 million for the Groove. (All prices include a 4-speed automatic transmission.) A manual transmission will be available starting early next year, giving consumers in Korea and overseas markets another option.

Technical Specifications

Length: 3,595 mm
Height: 1,520 mm
Width: 1,595 mm
Wheelbase: 2,375 mm
Tread
Front: 1,410 mm
Rear: 1,417 mm
Engine
Valve Train: DOHC
Displacement: 995 cc
Max. Power: 70 PS at 6,400 rpm
Max. Torque: 9.4 kg.m at 4,800 rpm
Fuel Efficiency: 17 km / l
Curb Weight: 910 kg

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