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New Mercedes-Benz S-Class Cabriolet Fully Revealed

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Mercedes-Benz has today fully unveiled the new S-Class Cabriolet ahead of its official debut at the Frankfurt motor show at the end of this month.

Dubbed by the German carmaker as “the most comfortable cabriolet in the world”, the new convertible is the sixth variant of the current S-Class family and the first open-top luxury four-seater from Mercedes-Benz since 1971.

Its closest relative is the S-Class Coupé, from which the Cabrio adopts around 60 per cent of its bodyshell components. A completely new feature is the rear floor, produced in aluminium for the first time.

According to Mercedes design boss Gorden Wagener, the new S-Class drop-top is “one of the most beautiful and exclusive S-Class cars of all time”.

Technical features when it comes to the interior cabin include an ‘enhanced’ automatic wind protection system called “AIRCAP”, an “AIRSCARF” neck-level heating system for open-top driving at low outside temperatures, heated seats and armrests, and a fully automatic climate control system made up of 12 sensors and 18 actuators.

Underneath, the standard car is powered by a 449 bhp twin-turbo 4.6-litre V8 that is allied to a 9-speed automatic transmission with semi-active air suspension featuring variable damping control.

Top of the range will be the AMG-powered S 63 4MATIC Cabriolet, an all-wheel drive model driven by a 5.5-litre V8 biturbo engine that delivers 577 bhp and peak torque of 664 lb-ft. Top speed is electronically limited to 155 mph, while acceleration from 0 to 62 mph takes 3.9 seconds.

The new S-Class Cabrio will go in sale in December ahead of its full market launch in the spring of 2016.

Source: Mercedes-Benz


Special Edition McLaren 650S Can-Am Celebrates 50 Years of Racing

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McLaren has created a limited production 650S to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Can-Am racing series.

Created by the company’s bespoke division, McLaren Special Operations (MSO), the Can-Am is based on the 650S Spider and incorporates a number of lightweight design elements.

Carbon-fibre is used for the bonnet, air-brake, front splitter, rear bumper centre, door blades and 650S Can-Am branded sill cover. A carbon-fibre retractable hard top also features for the first time.

Additional features said to have been inspired by the Can-Am racers include carbon-fibre louvered front wings and a new quad-exit, polished stainless steel exhaust system. The louvres are designed to reduce pressure over the front wheels and increase downforce, while the four circular tailpipes at the rear of the car are housed within a new visual carbon-fibre rear grille.

MSO has also created a custom set of forged alloy wheels inspired by those of the 1960s racers with a gloss-black finish on each of the five spokes and a diamond cut rim. Held in place by titanium bolts, the wheels are shod with Pirelli P Zero Corsa tyres. Carbon ceramic brakes with black painted callipers are also standard equipment.

Like the 650S Spider, the limited production model features a 3.8-litre twin turbo V8 which produces 641 bhp and 500 lb-ft of torque. Zero to 62 mph takes three seconds, while top speed is 204 mph.

The Can-Am series, or Canadian-American Challenge Cup, attracted the best drivers of the 1960s and 70s including Graham Hill, John Surtees, Jackie Stewart and, of course, Bruce McLaren.

The championship started in 1966, only a year after Bruce McLaren Motor Racing was established and in the series that followed, the young Kiwi became one of most successful names in the sport. McLaren won five consecutive championships between 1967 and 1971.

Source: McLaren

McLaren Reveals Exclusive 650S Spider ‘Al Sahara 79’

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McLaren has unveiled the 650S Spider Al Sahara 79 on the opening day of this year’s Dubai motor show.

The special edition model lines up alongside the 570S coupe and a customised example of the P1 as McLaren showcases the recently announced three model tiers – the Sports Series, Super Series and Ultimate Series – in the region together for the first time.

Developed by McLaren Special Operations – the division of the company responsible for customisation – the car is being made available only for Middle East customers.

“‘Al Sahara’ translates from the Arabic for desert, and the crisp pearlescent white gold paintwork has a subtle shimmer, inspired by the golden sands which form such a distinctive part of the Middle Eastern landscape. This unique paint finish is achieved through the addition of 24 carat gold particles. The precious metal, associated with opulence and luxury throughout the region has an atomic number of 79,” explain the designers.

Contrasting detailing on the exterior includes a retractable hard top and forged alloy wheels finished in gloss black. Carbon-fibre is used for the side intakes, front splitter and rear diffuser, while full-length carbon-fibre MSO-branded ‘side blades’ feature on the flanks. A fully custom-zoned interior features black and white leather seats with contrasting stitching, with the Al Sahara 79 paint scheme carried through to the steering wheel, centre console and door panels around the heating and ventilation controls. A dark golden finish has been applied to all switchgear and heating vents.

Power comes from the same mid-mounted 3.8-litre twin turbo V8 engine seen in the 650S coupe and 650S spider, producing 641 bhp at 7,250rpm and 500 lb-ft of torque. Performance and economy figures remain unchanged, with zero to 62 mph reached in 3.0 seconds, and a top speed of 204 mph, while achieving 24.2 mpg and CO2 emissions of 275 g/km.

McLaren says the Middle East currently boasts one of the highest levels of MSO customisation globally, with more than 25 per cent of all models bound for the region containing an element of bespoke content.

Source: McLaren

2016 McLaren 675 LT Spider Revealed

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McLaren has revealed the new 675LT Spider. Strictly limited to only 500 examples worldwide, it is only the second model to wear the LT badge. This latest edition comes less than a year since the first model in nearly 20 years resurrected the name, and is in response to “significant” customer demand according to McLaren.

Furthing adding to the Super Series range, the spider variant now becomes the fifth new model to be launched by the British brand in 2015, joining the P1 GTR, 570S Coupé and 540C Coupé, and the fixed-head 675LT Coupé.

Under the skin of the 675LT Spider sits the revised 3.8-litre twin turbo V8 powertrain from the coupé sibling. The power output and torque figures remain unchanged, with 666 bhp delivered at 7,100 rpm and 516 lb-ft of torque available between 5,000-6,500 rpm. McLaren says changes to the powertrain saw more than 50 per cent of the components replaced to deliver increased levels of power and torque. These include new, more efficient turbos, detail design changes to the cylinder heads and exhaust manifolds, new camshaft and lightweight connecting rods, and a faster-flowing fuel pump and delivery system.

Acceleration from 0-62 mph takes 2.9 seconds, and 124 mph is achieved in 8.1 seconds – giving away only 0.2 seconds to the more aerodynamically optimised and lighter coupé. Controlled torque delivery in first gear manages torque to 443 lb-ft. Top speed is listed at 203 mph.

In terms of fuel economy, the convertible returns 24.2 mpg on the EU combined cycle, while CO2 emissions remain at 275 g/km – the same as the coupé.

The 675LT Spider shares the suspension set up and geometry of the Coupé, with the front end sitting on new lightweight springs and a wider track – increased by 20 mm. Spring rates are claimed to be the most track-focused of the Super Series models, with stiffness increased 27 per cent at the front and 63 per cent at the rear, providing a more rearward balance and allowing for a 40 per cent increase in downforce over the 650S Spider.

As with the 675LT Coupé, most of the body is made of carbon-fibre. Lightweight components are also found throughout the powertrain and chassis, all contributing to a dry weight of 1,270 kg. This weight is a full 100 kg lighter than the 650S Spider.

McLaren claims no further strengthening – and associated weight increase – has been added to the body through the removal of the roof, and the 675LT Spider is 40 kg heavier than the Coupé. The three-piece retractable folding hardtop can be opened at speeds up to 19 mph.

Compared to the 675LT, the Spider variant gets a number of styling changes, including the extended front splitter flanked by front wing end plates, each of which is claimed to increase downforce. Carbon-fibre door sills run along the lower edge of the bodywork, flowing in to a smaller air intake ahead of the rear wheels. This sits below the more pronounced side intake, with both feeding air into the side radiators which are more prominent to offer increased cooling.

At the rear, the titanium crossover twin exhausts exit below the active ‘Longtail’ airbrake which is 50 per cent larger than other Super Series models. This is integrated in to the design of the rear wings and despite the larger size, carbon-fibre construction means weight is actually reduced. Exposed bodywork across the rear deck and below the rear wing aids engine cooling, while louvres in the flared rear bumper improve pressure levels.

As standard, the 675LT Spider is fitted with 10-spoke forged alloy wheels – 19-inch at the front, 20-inch at the rear – and P Zero Trofeo R tyres, developed for the 675LT models in collaboration with Pirelli. These are said to be the lightest wheel and tyre set ever offered by McLaren.

On the inside, the stripped-back cabin features Alcantara and bare carbon-fibre. A pair of lightweight carbon fibre-shelled racing seats, modelled on those fitted to the P1, save a combined 15 kg, and feature ‘675LT’ embossed leather. As seen in the P1 and 675LT, heating and ventilation controls are located within the portrait-orientated, centrally-mounted touchscreen, which also operates the four-speaker Meridian audio system, while air conditioning has been removed.

First deliveries of the new convertible will commence in summer 2016.

Source: McLaren

Last Ever McLaren P1 Rolls Off the Production Line

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The final chapter in the production of the McLaren P1 has now been written as the 375th and final example was completed, bringing the curtain down on what was arguably the most technologically advanced and dynamically accomplished British supercar ever made.

The model origianlly headlined the debut motor show appearance for McLaren at the 2012 Paris Motor Show as a design study for what would become the first model in the McLaren Ultimate Series.

Production commenced during the summer of 2013, with all cars sold prior to the first car being delivered, and the first car rolled off the production line during the 50th anniversary celebrations of McLaren in September 2013.

Following on from this, the Ultimate Series production line within the McLaren Production Centre (MPC) finished one car per day, with each individual model taking 17 days to complete on average.

The final production example of the P1 is finished in pearlescent orange, which echoes the shade of the 64th and final McLaren F1 roadcar, chassis #075, that went on to inspire “Volcano Orange”, available today across the McLaren range.

The car also features styling elements in raw carbon-fibre weave, with the finish only visible externally on the splitter, diffuser and the aerodynamic blades along the lower body, while the wheels are finished in silver.

Underneath, the powertrain comprises a 3.8-litre twin turbo V8 petrol engine with an electric motor that, together, produces 903 bhp at 7,300 rpm, and 664 lb-ft of torque. 0 to 62 mph takes 2.8 seconds, with 124 mph reached in 6.8 seconds and 186 mph achieved in 16.5 seconds – a full five seconds quicker than the famous McLaren F1. Top speed is limited to 217 mph.

With the completion of the final P1, the Ultimate Series continues in production with the limited-edition P1 GTR. Production of the track-only, 986 bhp model is due to complete early in 2016.

Source: McLaren

Jaguar Concept Cars from the ’60s and ’90s Brought Back to Life

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Two concept cars from Jaguar – originally built more than three decades apart – have been accurately recreated by classic car experts, who plan to offer exact reproductions for sale.

The first is the mid-engined XJ13, a possible Le Mans contender built in the 1960s, while the second recreates 1999’s XK180, originally crafted to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Jaguar XK120.

Both recreations will be unveiled at the 2016 London Classic Car Show in February of next year – the first time either will have been seen in public.

The original XJ13 was completed by Jaguar in 1966 and was powered by a prototype quad-cam 5.0-litre V12 engine. Just one car was completed and it claimed a UK speed record after racing driver David Hobbs lapped the banked MIRA test track at an average speed of more than 161 mph. Remarkably it held the record for 32 years.

It was later badly damaged in a high-speed crash, also at MIRA, but the rebuilt XJ13 – still owned by Jaguar – was rebodied and differs in a number of respects from the 1966 original.

Jaguar-XJ13-Jaguar-XK180-concept-cars-7 Jaguar XJ13 recreation with Neville Swales

Its swooping lines have been replicated before, but the version built by Building the Legend claims to be unique because the company’s driving force, Neville Swales, is keen on ensuring his recreation accurately reflects the original car… right down to the last rivet. It will be even be powered by one of the original six prototype quad cam V12 Jaguar engines.

“The project has been supported by surviving members of the original XJ13 Project Team and we have enjoyed the co-operation of Jaguar Heritage which has allowed us unfettered access to its archive,” said Swales.

As well as being on static display, the XJ13 will be driven along the Show’s Grand Avenue highway by one of the original test drivers. In the passenger seat will be Mike Kimberley – the original XJ13 project manager.

Swales will also be showing the first customer car, which will be powered by a later SOHC V12 engine.

When Eric Fintelman stumbled across the story of the Jaguar XK180, he liked the car so much he decided to build one for himself. He bought a replica glass fibre body which he put onto a classic Jaguar XJS chassis, but he quickly realised the car was not an accurate recreation.

“It looked wrong… and I discovered the measurements were taken from a 1:18 model and scaled up,” he said.

He then decided to make his own recreation from scratch. Given access to Jaguar’s two existing prototypes he took photographs and exact measurements and then teamed up with Dutch company JePe Specials to reproduce an aluminium-bodied XK180.

Like the original concept, the Jaguar XK180 reproduction by JePe Specials is based on XK8/XKR underpinnings and features a two-seat speedster body. The first recreation uses a XKR convertible chassis with a supercharged 4.0-litre V8 engine, though customers will be able to specify an XK8 chassis and any engine if they prefer.

Source: London Classic Car Show

LC 500 Coupe Heralds the Beginning of a New Performance Era for Lexus

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Lexus has unveiled a new flagship performance model called the LC 500 at this year’s Detroit motor show. Company bosses say the new model marks the beginning of a new phase for the brand.

The 2+2 coupe is effectively a production version of the LF-LC concept car that was revealed back in 2012 – also at the Detroit motor show. Created by the team at its Calty design studio in California, the concept went on to win the annual EyesOn Design Award for best concept car.

Riding on 20-inch wheels, the road-ready LC 500’s exterior takes visual influence from the LF-LC, incorporating design elements such as the “spindle” grille and “L”-shaped angular headlights. Inside, the cabin features Lexus’s digital dash display and an all-new, next-generation infotainment system.

Underneath, the new car is powered by the same 5-litre V8 engine as that used in the RC F and GS F, which generates 467 bhp at 7100 rpm and 389 lb-ft of torque at 4800 rpm. Lexus is claiming a 0 to 60 mph time of less than 4.5 seconds.

Drive is sent to the rear wheels via a 10-speed single-clutch automatic gearbox with shift times that Lexus engineers say rivals those of a dual-clutch transmission.

The LC 500 is also the first to use the brand’s all-new rear-wheel-drive platform that does not share with any current Lexus models. Called GA-L, the setup is part of the new corporate global architecture for “luxury vehicles” that uses high-strength steel and aluminium components to reduce weight and to increase torsional rigidity.

Lexus says the underpinnings of this new coupe will become the blueprint for the company’s future front-engine/rear-wheel-drive cars.

Source: Lexus

Nissan Designers Go ‘Extreme’ with New TITAN Warrior Concept

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Just one year after the production version of the all-new Nissan TITAN XD made its world debut at the Detroit motor show, the TITAN Warrior Concept was unveiled on the very same stage.

Created by Nissan Design America in La Jolla, California, the new concept truck aims to demonstrate how the Cummins 5.0-litre V8 turbo diesel engine-equipped TITAN XD can be adapted for off-road adventure use.

The design team imagined how their original TITAN design, said to have been inspired by warriors in ancient Greek mythology, might evolve to “extreme levels” of off-road duty.

While maintaining the TITAN XD Crew Cab’s standard wheelbase and length, the designers amplified the protective look of the production exterior.

Designating the new look as “modern armour” – with a somewhat stealthy, robotic quality – they continued the anatomical feel of the production TITAN, but added a more machine-like, sharper-edge appearance. Exterior features include aggressive-looking, carbon-fibre fenders, functional hood vents, carbon-fibre cabin and tailgate spoilers, and a large front skidplate, which interlocks into the front bumper.

Additional details include custom LED lights, front and rear, and integrated, roof-mounted LED off-road lights, while the matte-gunmetal paint called “Thunder” is meant to add to the vehicle’s “stealthy presence”.

Inside, the seats are covered in a carbon-coloured seat fabric trimmed with “Magma” orange accents. Interior surfaces utilise material, such as carbon-fibre, polished chrome finishes, leather with accented Magma orange stitching. Other interior details include auxiliary toggle switches that are integrated into the centre stack.

As an extreme adventure version of the new 2016 TITAN XD, the concept truck utilises the factory fully boxed ladder frame and Cummins 5.0L V8 turbo diesel engine and the standard heavy-duty 6-speed Aisin automatic transmission as its base. Where the TITAN Warrior Concept departs from its production counterpart is in the full custom suspension design.

In the front, the standard suspension has been replaced with custom upper and lower control arm with performance ball joints, along with racing-style internal bypass reservoir coil-over shocks with custom reservoir mounts and tie-rod extensions. In the rear, the modifications include custom internal bypass reservoir shocks with custom reservoir mounts. Adjusted-length prototype axles were installed, along with a custom sway bar, relocated sway bar brackets and rear lift blocks and U-bolts. Hydraulic pressurizsed bump stops were also added front and rear.

“Truck buyers have a seemingly insatiable appetite for more content and more unique offerings,” said Nissan’s North American boss, José Muñoz. “Even though our all-new 2016 TITAN XD just started arriving at Nissan dealers nationwide last month, we are already exploring new territory where TITAN might go in the future.”

Source: Nissan


MSO-Tuned McLaren P1 and 675LT Headed for Geneva

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McLaren will arrive at the Geneva motor show this year with its biggest ever stand, showcasing the largest range of models from the full three-tier model line-up.

Among the headlines, McLaren Special Operations (MSO) will pay a carbon-fibre tribute to the McLaren P1 which recently ceased production. MSO has also created a bespoke version of the 675LT Spider which makes its first public appearance at the show after reportedly selling out in weeks.

They will line up alongside the recently-confirmed 650S GT3 racing car and a still-to-be-announced addition to the Sports Series family.

The P1 by MSO, one of the 375 road legal versions produced, is presented with a full visual carbon fibre-body which has been hand-laid, with a bespoke “Lio Blue” tinted lacquer. The Geneva show marks the first time the full visual carbon-fibre body conversion has been displayed publicly after it was made available to P1 customers earlier this year. Other key upgrades completed by MSO include a gloss black finish to the wheels, a retrim of the interior with carbon black Alcantara and contrasting blue stitching, and a 24-carat gold exhaust heatshield in a homage to the McLaren F1.

The 675LT Spider, meanwhile, is limited to only 500 examples worldwide. The designers at MSO has developed a one-off example finished in “Ceramic Grey” with increased levels of carbon-fibre than the standard model. The satin carbon-fibre retractable hardtop and tonneau can be operated at speeds up to 25 mph and saves 1kg, while the front wings include carbon-fibre louvres. The ‘Longtail’ airbrake is finished in body colour on the upper surface with the lower plane shows the natural carbon-fibre weave, while the aerodynamic front bumper end plates, side skirts, side intakes and rear bumper are also finished in visual carbon.

On the inside, a pair of black Alcantara trimmed racing seats include contrasting yellow contrast stitch with the rotary controls on the dash finished in “Solis”, a unique colour to the 675LT Spider. The gold detailing is also visible through the exposed engine bay with a 24-carat gold heatshield around the titanium exhaust system.

Performance for the 675LT Spider by MSO remains unchanged, with the 3.8-litre twin turbo V8 engine generating 666 bhp and 516 lb-ft of torque. These figures accelerate the car from zero to 62 mph in 2.9 seconds, zero to 124 mph in 8.1 seconds and on to a top speed of 204 mph.

Source: McLaren

2016 McLaren 570GT Unveiled

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McLaren will showcase the largest selection of models to date at this year’s Geneva motor show with the full three tier model range on display, including the latest in the recently-launched Sports Series – the 570GT.

Joining the 570S Coupé and 540C Coupé as the third model in the range, McLaren claims the new 570GT variant is the most refined and road-biased of the lot.

While sharing the same front end and dihedral doors as the regular 570S, the 570GT’s exterior design gets a modified roof and rear end. The latter includes an extended fixed rear spoiler – 10 mm taller than that fitted to the Coupé models.

However, the main new development is the addition of 
a glass ‘Touring Deck’, which means a further 220 litres of space on the inside behind the seats. This additional space is accessed via the side opening glass hatch bringing the total storage space for the car to 370 litres. The front luggage area remains unchanged from the Coupé, providing 150 litres of stowage.

Under the skin, the 570GT has a custom dynamic setup that includes a reduction in spring rate stiffness of 15 per cent at the front and 10 per cent at the rear. Independent adaptive dampers can be dynamically adjusted through Normal, Sport and Track settings, and are coupled to front and rear anti-roll bars.

The electro-hydraulic steering system is retained from the Coupé models but with a reduced ratio – by two per cent – and has been specifically designed to smooth out driver inputs at high cruising speed.

In terms of power, the 570GT is fitted with the same 3.8-litre twin turbo V8 M838TE engine which debuted in the 570S Coupé. Power and torque remain at 562 bhp and 443 lb-ft, with power being delivered to the rear wheels via a seven-speed transmission.

Source: McLaren

Production-Ready Koenigsegg Regera Debuts in Geneva

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Koenigsegg has unveiled the production-spec Regera at the Geneva motor show. The car was first previewed at last year’s event, albeit in concept guise.

Since Geneva 2015, the Regera has evolved from a design study into a production reality, with the car put through an intense period of development, testing and homologation for worldwide sale.

The designers claim over 3,000 changes have been made to the original concept vehicle. The weight savings achieved have resulted in a final curb weight – complete with all water, oils and fuel – of 1590 kgs. Dry weight is listed at 1470 kgs.

Underneath the carbon-fibre body, the car is powered by a twin-turbo 5.0-litre V8 engine working in unison with a 4.5 kWh battery pack and three electric motors – one mounted on each rear wheel, and one mounted on the crank.

Total output is claimed to be 1,500 bhp and 1,475 lb-ft of torque, which is sent to the rear wheels minus a traditional gearbox. Instead, the Regera uses Koenigsegg’s new ‘Direct Drive’ system – a clutch-slip mechanism that uses the hydraulic coupling to convert torque at medium/high speeds during fast acceleration.

In all, Koenigsegg claims the Regera will reach 0-62 mph in 2.8 seconds, 0-124 mph in 6.6 seconds and 0-186 in 10.9 seconds. 0-249 mph is said to take 20 seconds.

Practical tech features, meanwhile, include a new function dubbed ‘Autoskin’ that allows the driver to open the doors and front and rear hoods remotely using a hydraulic system.

The wing mirrors now also fold automatically when the doors open to increase the practicality of the dihedral doors.

On the inside, the seats get heating and electrical adjustment with memory function. Other standard kit includes Apple CarPlay and Wi-Fi functionality.

First deliveries of the Regera are expected at the end of 2016.

Source: Koenigsegg

2017 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 Unveiled

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GM has today unveiled the new track-focused 2017 Camaro ZL1, claiming it will challenge the most advanced sports coupes in the world “in any measure” with “unprecedented levels of technology and straight-line acceleration”.

The designers say functionality defines the ZL1’s form, with the exterior claimed to have been shaped during more than 100 hours of wind-tunnel testing and on-track validation to improve aerodynamics and cooling for track use.

“The design supports the Camaro ZL1’s exceptional performance and does so with compelling style,” said John Mack, Camaro exterior design manager. “From every angle, the elements coalesce to give the car a purposeful, super aggressive attitude.”

The lower grille opening, for example, offers greater airflow compared to the Camaro SS, and the upper grille incorporates a new version of the “flow-tie” open bowtie insignia. There’s also a new hood, with a carbon-fibre insert and heat extractor that pulls hot air from the engine compartment. Additional changes include a larger front splitter, bespoke rockers, a wing-style rear spoiler and wider front fenders.

Inside, there are standard Recaro front seats, along with a sueded flat-bottom steering wheel and shift knob.

Acceleration for the ZL1 is delivered with a new supercharged 6.2-litre V8 engine rated at an estimated 640 bhp and 640 lb-ft of torque, and either a six-speed manual transmission with active rev matching or an all-new paddle-shift 10-speed automatic. This is the first Chevrolet application of the new quick-shift 10-speed, with unique calibrations and hardware developed exclusively for the ZL1. By the end of 2018, GM says it will introduce the new 10-speed automatic in eight vehicle models.

Handling capability starts with the lightweight, stiffer structure of the all-new sixth-Gen Camaro, married with Magnetic Ride suspension and an electronic limited-slip differential. Standard technologies include Driver Mode Selector, dual-mode exhaust and advanced connectivity features.

The ZL1 also has a stronger power-to-weight ratio than its predecessor, weighing 200 pounds less, while offering approximately 60 more horsepower and 80 more pound-feet of torque.

The car sits on custom 20-inch forged aluminium wheels wrapped with 285/30ZR20 front and 305/30ZR20 rear tyres with a compound and construction developed exclusively for the Camaro by Goodyear.

Sitting behind the wheels are Brembo brakes with six-piston monobloc front calipers – featuring the ZL1 logo – and massive, 15.35-inch two-piece front rotors.

The Camaro ZL1 goes on sale late this year.

Source: Chevrolet

Bell & Ross AeroGT Supercar Concept Revealed

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French watchmaker Bell & Ross has unveiled its new AeroGT concept car. With a design said to have been inspired by the world of aviation and grand tourers from the 1950s, the supercar is powered by a twin-turbo 4.2-litre V8 engine, which is claimed to reach 62 mph in under three seconds. Top speed is reckoned to be around 200 mph.

Company design boss Bruno Belamich says the concept car was originally conceived to inspire future watch designs. “Every year, in order to create new models, I need new sources of inspiration,” he explains. “The AeroGT concept car was the starting point for the creation of a new pair of watches inspired by the automotive world – the BR 03 AeroGT models.”

Created under the watch of Bruno, the project was deputised by fellow Bell & Ross designer Sebastien Gobert who also brought in a team of automotive designers that included Adrien Séné from ISD Rubika – one of France’s most elite design schools.

Styling-wise, the 4.7 metre-long car incorporates pointed forms with sharp angles and cutting overhangs that are reminiscent of stealth aeroplanes. When seen from above, the drop-shaped glass roof is meant to recall the glass cover of a jet cockpit.

The aviation theme continues with the two exhaust pipes that are deliberately styled to evoke turbojet engine exhausts, while the turbine-style rims imitate the vanes of supersonic aircraft engines. Another key element is the rear longitudinal aileron, which is reminiscent of an aircraft’s vertical stabiliser.

This is not the first time Bell & Ross has experimented with automotive design. Back in 2014 it revealed a similar design concept of the B-Rocket motorbike that was also inspired by aeronautics. The B-Rocket was built by British customer bike builder Shaw Harley-Davidson.

“Following the success of our B-Rocket motorbike in 2014, I wanted to go even further and design the Bell & Ross car. The aim was to produce a car that can ‘hold its own’, even amongst automotive professionals,” says Bruno.

Source: Bell & Ross

McLaren 570S Coupé Design Voted ‘Best of the Best’

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The McLaren 570S Coupé has received the highest accolade at the Red Dot Award: Product Design 2016, being named ‘Red Dot: Best of the Best’ for “design quality and groundbreaking design”.

This year’s award saw around 5,200 items entered, and the Red Dot jury, made up of a mix of designers, design professors and journalists were unanimous in awarding the first model in the McLaren Sports Series with the ‘Red Dot: Best of the Best’ title.

The final design is said to closely match the initial sketches first proposed by chief designer Rob Melville and the design team at McLaren from the outset of the project.

Commenting on the design, Melville explained: “The dynamic design of the 570S Coupé is rooted in its aerodynamic function and was optimised to provide innovative visual presence. This approach combines fluid surfaces and strong features to deliver a final aerodynamic shape designed to optimise air flow management in, out and around the vehicle. Weight is minimised through the layering of panels, designed to float above aerodynamic surfaces along with suspended elements, supporting the potency of this compact sports car.”

Robert-Melville-Chief-Designer-at-McLaren-Automotive-car-design-2

The 570S Coupé made its global debut at last year’s New York motor show. Underneath, it’s powered by a 3.8-litre twin turbo V8 engine delivering 562 bhp and a top speed of 204 mph.

Source: McLaren

Ford Reveals Updates for 2017 Shelby GT350 Mustang

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Ford is adding more standard features to the new Shelby GT350 Mustang, which will go on sale in the U.S. this June.

The designers say the new offerings are what customers have been asking for from what is claimed to be the most track-capable, race-ready Mustang ever built.

The standard track package will now include an aluminium tower-to-tower brace and a “high-downforce” decklid spoiler at the rear. Engine oil, transmission and differential coolers, and a MagneRide damping system, are also being made part of the standardised kit.

“Ford Performance is always listening to customer feedback,” said Dave Pericak, global director of Ford Performance. “At the end of last year we started offering a back seat option for Shelby GT350R due to customer demand. Now, we have adjusted the packages available to continue to provide more of what customers want.”

The 2017 Shelby GT350 also brings three new colours and the choice of either an electronics package with Ford’s SYNC 3 voice-activated navigation and nine-speaker audio system, or a ‘convenience package’ that, among other things, replaces manual Recaro seats with leather-trimmed power sport seats.

No details have yet been given regarding any changes to the Shelby GT350R’s high-revving flat-plane crankshaft 5.2-litre V8, which currently produces 526 horsepower and 429 lb-ft of torque – the most powerful naturally aspirated Ford production engine ever.

Source: Ford


McLaren 675 LT Spider – Picture Special

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The 675LT Spider was revealed at the end of 2015 as the latest chapter in the history of the famous ‘Longtail’ name, and was the fifth new model debuted during what became a defining year for McLaren.

Strictly limited to only 500 examples worldwide which sold out in just two weeks, it is only the second model to wear the LT badge. This latest model arrived less than a year since the first model in nearly 20 years resurrected the name, and was in response to significant customer demand, says McLaren.

Externally, the car’s styling is claimed to be an engineering-led design. At the front, the distinctive and aggressive ‘shark front’ is designed to channel air on to the bonnet above and in to the intakes below. A prominent carbon-fibre splitter, 80 per cent larger than the other Super Series models, which works the air harder, complements new Formula 1-style end plates to increase downforce levels over the front bodywork. These design features are claimed to aid turn-in and steering sharpness.

Turbulent air from the front wheel arches is then ‘cleaned’ as it flows towards the rear bodywork by carbon-fibre side skirts running the full length of the lower bodywork. A second, lower air intake is newly incorporated ahead of the leading edge of the rear wheel arch, below a more pronounced side intake behind the door, both of which feed clean cool air into the side-mounted radiators.

Under the skin sits the heavily-revised 3.8-litre twin turbo V8 powertrain from the Coupé sibling. The power output and torque figures remain unchanged, with 666 bhp delivered at 7,100 rpm and 516 lb-ft available between 5,000-6,500 rpm.

McLaren engineers say changes to the powertrain saw more than 50 per cent of the components replaced to improve power, torque and drivability. These include new, more efficient turbos, design changes to the cylinder heads and exhaust manifolds, new camshaft and lightweight connecting rods, and a faster-flowing fuel pump and delivery system.

Acceleration from 0-62 mph takes 2.9 seconds, and 124 mph is achieved in 8.1 seconds – giving away only 0.2 seconds to the more aerodynamically optimised and lighter Coupé.

Source: McLaren

Ford Mustang Becomes Best-Selling Sports Coupe Globally

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In its first year of global availability, Ford claims its new Mustang has become the world’s best-selling sports coupe.

According to a company study of the most recent registration data from U.S. marketing analyst IHS Automotive, Ford sold around 110,000 Mustang coupes globally in 2015 – topping all other sports coupe competitors.

That was achieved despite limited availability for most of the year in such key markets like China and the UK. Additionally, Ford sold around 30,000 Mustang convertibles, for total nameplate sales of 141,868 vehicles – making Mustang the best-selling two-door sports car in the world.

“U.S. consumers have enjoyed interesting foreign sports cars for decades, so it was time for the Americans to return the favour with the worldwide launch of the new Mustang,” says Erich Merkle, Ford sales analyst. “Global markets have responded in a huge way. Ford Mustang was the only sports coupe in the world with more than 100,000 units registered last year.”

Global data for 2015 suggests Mustang has room to grow overseas this year as many markets begin to take delivery of their full allotment. So far, Merkle notes, global customers are most interested in V8-equipped Mustangs.

“While much of the growth in Mustang demand in the United States has come from coastal markets – especially Southern California – and millennials opting for the 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine, buyers in other countries prefer the V8,” he says.

To date, more than 16,600 customers in Europe have ordered a Mustang, which went on sale here last summer. Shipments from Flat Rock Assembly Plant, the exclusive production home to Mustang, began in the latter half of 2015. Of the 13,000 sold last year, 4,700 are now in customer hands.

Several significant markets, including the UK, began selling Mustang in the fourth quarter. Total sales have so far topped 3,500 cars, with the first 1,000 pony cars delivered to customers in March.

In Germany, the Mustang was the best-selling sports coupe in March, according to data published by German Federal Motor Transport Authority, KBA. Despite relatively high petrol prices, the 5.0-litre V8 is the No. 1 engine choice in Germany. The country also has the highest international take-rate for the convertible model, with one in three sales.

Mustang was also the best-selling sports coupe last month in France, according to data from the Association Auxilliaire de l’Automobile. Ford sold 339 Mustangs in France in first-quarter 2016.

Ford says incremental sales in South Africa, Cyprus and Malta are helping boost Mustang volume.

In the last quarter of 2015, the Mustang was the best-selling sports coupe in China as exports made their way to dealerships in volume, according to IHS registration data. Buyers in China seem to favour EcoBoost versions.

In its first three months on sale in Australia, meanwhile, the Mustang ranks as the best-selling sports coupe. Ford says demand is so strong, the pony car was initially sold out through 2017, but an additional 2,000 Mustangs are slated to ship Down Under by the end of this year.

More than 90 per cent of buyers in Australia and New Zealand are opting for the V8 version.

In March, Mustang sales of 12,563 cars in the U.S. outperformed sales of 12,248 for the new Chevrolet Camaro and Dodge Challenger combined, according to published figures. Mustang was the best-selling sports coupe in the U.S. for all of 2015 and through the first quarter of 2016, according to industry-reported numbers.

In Canada, Mustang sales leadership is nothing new; it has outsold Camaro every year since 1985, according to data from the Canadian Vehicle Manufacturers Association.

And over in Mexico, the Mustang was the best-selling sports coupe last year, according to IHS registration data. Mustang sales were up 176 per cent in Mexico in 2015 versus 2014.

Source: Ford

TVR Teases Design of New Car

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TVR has revealed teaser images showing the styling of its all-new launch model that is expected to be road-ready in late 2017.

Company boss Les Edgar says the car’s styling includes F1 inspired elements, with the chassis and body having been designed by Gordon Murray. It will also be the first production car to be manufactured using Murray’s iStream assembly process. Underneath, the car will be powered by a Cosworth tuned V8 engine.

The reborn British brand says nearly 400 deposits have already been taken for the new car, which might even wear the famous Griffith badge.

Back in March, TVR announced that its new production facility will be located in the Ebbw Vale Enterprise Zone in South Wales. The Welsh Government is also expected to invest in the car maker.

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Source: TVR

Ferrari V8 Wins Engine of the Year Award

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Ferrari has scooped a record number of prizes at the International Engine of the Year Awards. Its 3.9-litre twin-turbo took no fewer than three categories along with the overall Engine of the Year Award.

The V8 currently powers the 488 GTB, 488 Spider and, with a slightly different displacement, the California T. In fact, the engine also won the Performance Engine and New Engine categories, as well as the 3-litre to 4-litre displacement category.

Performance-wise, the engine produces 661 bhp while emitting 260 g/km of CO2. It also delivers a claimed combined fuel efficiency figure of 24.8 mpg.

According to Graham Johnson, co-chairman of the International Engine of the Year Awards, “It’s a giant leap forward for turbocharged engines in terms of efficiency, performance and flexibility. It truly is the best engine in production today and will forever be remembered as one of the all-time greats.”

Ferrari’s naturally-aspirated 6.3-litre V12 engine that powers the F12berlinetta and F12tdf also received the Above 4-litre award.

Source: Ferrari

McLaren Reveals Limited Edition MSO Carbon Series LT

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McLaren Special Operations, the bespoke division of McLaren, has announced the creation of the MSO Carbon Series LT. Strictly limited to 25 units globally – all said to be already sold – and based on the 675LT Spider, the Carbon Series LT has been produced in response to requests from customers, says McLaren.

In total, the special edition features around 40 per cent additional carbon-fibre parts over the standard car. As with the 675LT Spider, the front bumper with larger splitter and end plates, front under body, side skirts, side intakes, lower side intakes, rear bodyside lower, rear fenders, rear deck, rear bumper, diffuser and ‘Longtail’ airbrake are all carbon-fibre but with a gloss finish revealing the inherent weave of the material.

The car is also fitted with a gloss finished carbon-fibre electrically retractable roof and tonneau, A-pillars, bonnet and rear deck, side blades, complete front and rear wings, and even fuel filler flap. The McLaren Track Telemetry pack, which includes three track cameras, is fitted as standard equipment. The front wings also feature GT3-inspired functional louvres.

Under the carbon-fibre skin sits a revised 3.8-litre twin turbo V8 powertrain from its Coupé sibling. The power output and torque figures remain unchanged, with 666 bhp delivered at 7,100 rpm and 516 lb-ft available between 5,000-6,500 rpm. However, changes to the engine saw more than 50 per cent of the components replaced; these include new turbos, design changes to the cylinder heads and exhaust manifolds, new camshaft and lightweight connecting rods, and a faster-flowing fuel pump and delivery system.

Acceleration from 0-62 mph takes a claimed 2.9 seconds, and 124 mph is achieved in 8.1 seconds – giving away only 0.2 seconds to the more aerodynamically optimised and lighter Coupé.

Production of the MSO Carbon Series LT will begin this autumn with first deliveries expected before the end of 2016.

Source: McLaren

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