Ferrari originally unveiled the 488 GTB in February last year ahead of the 2015 Geneva motor show.

Taking over from the 458 Italia, the 488 GTB became Ferrari’s first mid-engined turbocharged supercar since the famous F40.

In March this year the new berlinetta went on to win the Red Dot Best of the Best design award. Shaped by aerodynamicists at the Ferrari Styling Centre, the 488 GTB’s body generates 50 per cent more downforce than the 458 Italia.

In terms of performance, the 3.9-litre V8 turbo engine – recently named winner of the 2016 International Engine of the Year Award – delivers 660 bhp and 561 lb-ft of torque, which enables a 0-124 mph time of 8.3 seconds.

Source: Ferrari

Mercedes-Benz has unveiled the new AMG GT R at the Brooklands race track in Surrey.

As the third member of the AMG GT family, the new model will spearhead the AMG range when it officially launches in November.

Based on the Nürburgring 24-hour race-winning GT3, the car is powered by a 577 bhp twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 engine mated to a revised seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. Top speed is listed at 198 mph, while 0-62 mph takes a claimed 3.6 seconds.

Finished in “AMG green hell magno” – said to be a visual link to the “Green Hell”, the nickname for the “North Loop” of the Nurburgring – the car sits on 19″ wheels at the front and 20″ ones at the rear; the side walls at the rear have been widened by 57 mm to create space for the larger rims and tyres.

The designers also claim the wider design of the rear fascia with its large outer vent openings and vertical swaging improves the airflow at the back, as does the double diffuser.

There’s also a new active diffuser element concealed, almost invisibly, in the underbody in front of the engine. At a speed of 50 mph in Race mode, this carbon component, weighing about two kilograms, automatically moves downward by about 40 mm and changes the airflow. It is further claimed to reduce front-axle lift by around 40 kg at 155 mph.

Combined, all of the additional aerodynamic measures increase the car’s surface contact at top speed by 155 kg compared with the regular AMG GT.

The GT R also weighs in 15 kilograms lighter than the AMG GT S, despite incorporating more technical features such as the large, carbon-fibre rear aerofoil and the active rear-wheel steering; the latter being used for the first time on a Mercedes-AMG model.

Chassis modifications, meanwhile, include a reworked double wishbone suspension with the steering knuckles and hub carriers on the front and rear axle manufactured out of forged aluminium in order to reduce unsprung weight. In addition, the rear axle is fitted with a thicker tubular anti-roll bar.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

Poland’s first ever supercar – the extremely fast Arrinera Hussarya GT – has made its second UK appearance by spinning its tyres on the famous Goodwood Hillclimb tarmac at this year’s Festival of Speed.

Previously displayed at the Autosport International show in Birmingham back in January, the car is designed to compete in GT4 races in the UK and Europe. However, Arrinera says it will be followed in the fourth quarter of 2017 by a road-legal trackday version and later by a more exclusive, higher-end road-going model dubbed “Hussarya 33”.

While the race car has been developed with the help of Noble founder Lee Noble, the exterior carbon-fibre body has been shaped by Professor Janusz Piechna of Warsaw Technical University; the aerodynamics are said to have been further honed in the MIRA wind tunnel in the UK.

Built to FIA GT spec, the prototype car debuted at Goodwood is powered by a 6.2 litre V8 engine, developing between 420 and 650 bhp, and 310 to 597 lb-ft of torque depending on its state of tune. Torque is delivered to the rear wheels via a 6-speed sequential gearbox with paddle shift actuation and a limited-slip differential.

The suspension is a bespoke design using pushrods and Öhlins 4-way adjustable dampers, while braking is handled by a quartet of 380 mm discs with Alcon 6-pot monobloc calipers, aided by a racing Bosch ABS system.

Arrinera claims the future road-legal variant will deliver a top speed of 211 mph, and a 0-62 mph time of 3.2 seconds.

Source: Arrinera

Porsche has officially revealed the second-generation Panamera at a special event in Berlin.

Based on the company’s new MSB platform, the German carmaker says the refreshed model has been “redeveloped and redesigned down to the last detail”.

Externally, the four-door car has grown longer, wider and taller. The new Panamera measures 5,049 mm long, 1,937 mm wide and 1,423 mm tall. However, despite the car having grown taller by 5 mm, the car looks lower. The designers say this is primarily due to the reduced height above the rear of the passenger compartment, which has been cut by 20 mm.

The wheelbase has also been increased by 30 mm to 2,950 mm, which further lengthens the car’s proportions. The front wheels have been shifted further forward, reducing the front overhang and making what the designers assert is the key dimension – the distance between the A-pillar and the front axle – even larger.

The new side body – like the bonnet, boot, roof and wings – is made entirely of aluminium.

At the back, the most prominent features are the three-dimensional LED lights with integrated four-point brake lights. The rear lights are further interconnected by a narrow LED strip. Below the lights sits a diffuser into which dual stainless steel tailpipes are integrated on the left and right; the Panamera 4S and 4S Diesel can be recognised by their round tailpipes, while the Panamera Turbo has trapezoidal tailpipe trims.

On the car’s inside, there’s a completely new cabin design. In front of the driver, the hooded instrument cluster houses two 7-inch displays, while a 12.3-inch touchscreen – used to manage the Porsche Communication Management system – dominates the gearshift console.

In many areas, touch-sensitive surfaces have replaced traditional hard keys, which forms part of Porsche’s continued digitalisation process that started with the 918 Spyder. Even the louvres of the central air vent are electrically adjusted by touch-sensitive sliders, for example.

Practical aspects include a 40/20/40 split rear which, when folded, enables a maximum luggage capacity of 1,304 litres – that’s 50 litres more than the first-generation Panamera.

Underneath, in terms of power, all of the second generation model’s engines have been redesigned. Porsche engineers claim they have all been made more powerful, while improving fuel economy and reducing emissions.

Three new biturbo direct injection engines will be made available at market launch. All of them – and for the first time including the diesel – can be equipped with a permanent all-wheel drive system and a new eight-speed dual-clutch transmission.

A V8 petrol engine that delivers 542 bhp and 568 lb-ft of torque powers the Panamera Turbo and a V6 petrol engine with 434 bhp and 405 lb-ft of torque drives the Panamera 4S. Fitted with the optional Sport Chrono package, the V8 completes 0-62 mph in 3.6 seconds and reaches a top speed of 190 mph, while the V6 hits 62 mph from rest in 4.2 seconds and manages a top speed of 180 mph.

In the Panamera 4S Diesel, meanwhile, a V8 with 416 bhp generates a maximum torque of 626 lb-ft. With a 0-62 mph time of 4.3 seconds and a 177 mph top speed, Porsche claims the car is the world’s fastest production diesel. Fuel-wise, it returns a combined 42.2 mpg, with average CO2 emissions of 176 g/km.

UK deliveries of the new Panamera will start in November.

Source: Porsche

Hot on the heels of its public unveiling, is the news that reborn British marque, Bristol, will make its first full public debut with the all-new Bullet at the upcoming Salon Privé event on 1st to 3rd September.

The brand’s first car since the company was rescued from insolvency by new owners five years ago, the Bullet will be handmade in Chichester and limited to a number of only 70 – in celebration of Bristol’s 70th anniversary.

The speedster’s retro design is claimed to draw on the brand’s heritage, with the wings, front grill and bonnet all serving as visual clues to Bristol’s roots as an aeroplane manufacturer.

Much of the body and chassis of the new car is manufactured from carbon-fibre composites, while power comes from a 370-bhp V8 ‘Hercules’ engine that is claimed to deliver a 0-62 mph time of 3.8 seconds and a top speed of 155 mph.

The 4.8 litre power plant, named after the historic Bristol Hercules 14-cylinder radial aircraft engine, has been manufactured by BMW and finished by Bristol.

The tie-up with BMW also has an historical precedent; Bristol’s first car, the 400, was built by the Car Division of the Bristol Aeroplane Company in 1945 in collaboration with Frazer-Nash and BMW. Bristol Cars Ltd was founded later in 1947.

Frazer-Nash Research and Bristol Cars were once again reunited in 2011, when new owners rescued the auto-maker from administration and brought the two together in the same group of companies.

Julian Ramshaw, general manager of Bristol Cars, said: “The Bullet celebrates 70 years of design and innovation at Bristol Cars. This unique speedster sets the tone for the future of Bristol Cars – with a focus on luxury, performance and elegance it really is the ultimate driver’s car.”

Source: Bristol

An all-new British supercar dubbed the Keating Berus is set to be revealed in April 2017 at the Top Marques Monaco show.

Taking its name from the venomous snake Vipera Berus, the Berus will come in two versions: A V8-powered model that is claimed to have a top speed of over 230 mph and a 0-60 mph time of 2.4 seconds; and an electric version said to pack 402 bhp and 1,054 lb-ft of torque.

Working in partnership with the University of Bolton’s Centre for Advanced Performance Engineering (CAPE), Keating Supercars originally made their debut in July 2006 with the launch of the Keating TKR at the 2006 London Motorshow. CAPE is said to be one of the UK’s leading centre for the study of automotive performance engineering and motorsport technology and was the first in Britain to have an in-house and fully functioning international race team based on campus.

The TKR was built primarily for competition and track use. It was soon followed by the SKR, based on the TKR, but designed as a road car. In April 2011 the Keating ZKR – reaching 60 mph in 3.6 seconds and producing 650 bhp – was unveiled at the Monaco Top Marques show held at the Grimaldi Forum, Monaco.

Next came the Bolt, launching in 2013, and designed to out-perform supercar competition using lightweight materials to reduce the power to weight ratio, but aiming to increase the car’s performance figures to a top speed of 340 mph. However, the car never made it into production.

Keating Supercars CEO, Dr Anthony Keating, is an alumnus of the University of Bolton, studying both engineering and business with the University. He said: “The Berus’s namesake is reflected in its design; including the lights which resemble those of a snake and the front which appears to display the snake’s fangs. The car is engineered, designed and will be built in Bolton.”

Added Tony: “With the coming £13 million National Centre for Motorsport Engineering, designed to provide first-class facilities unrivaled in academia, Bolton will be the UK centre to study automotive engineering and motorsport technology.”

Artist’s impression of The National Centre for Motorsport Engineering

Source: CAPE

McLaren has released details of the new 570GT by MSO Concept ahead of its debut at this year’s Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance.

Based on the standard 570GT, the McLaren Special Operations (MSO) division – itself launched at Pebble Beach back in 2012 – has created the concept to preview a collection of design features that it says will soon be available to customers.

These include a prototype ‘Electro-Chromic Roof’ that adds an electro-chromic interlayer to the standard-fit glass roof. Using a touch-sensitive headlining, the roof can be adjusted through five defined points from almost clear to a dark tint.

Additional exterior treatments include full-length sill panels in gloss carbon-fibre that cover the entire length of the 570 GT’s sills.

Also new is a custom exhaust system manufactured from titanium that is 30% lighter than the standard stainless steel version. The heat shields are also finished in a golden titanium nitride tint, visible through the rear air ducts, which naturally change colour to a blue/purple as the system heats and cools through its cycle.

Internally, the MSO concept gets a tan-coloured interior with an integrated 12-speaker Bowers and Wilkins audio system. Much of the interior components, interior door inserts and tunnel sides are also finished in a gloss lacquer.

Underneath, the 570GT by MSO Concept is still powered by the standard model’s 562 bhp 3.8-litre twin turbo V8.

Source: McLaren

The Escala Concept debuts in California tonight, introducing the next evolution of Cadillac design and previewing the styling direction being developed for future production models. The car will be displayed this weekend at the annual Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance.

Escala — Spanish for “scale”— is a concept for a larger, more elite companion to the recently launched 2016 Cadillac CT6, the brand’s new range-topping saloon. Escala is also the third in a series of concepts Cadillac has debuted at Pebble Beach in recent years, following the Ciel convertible (2011) and Elmiraj coupe (2013).

The large 4-door model measures 210.5 inches in overall length, which is roughly 6 inches longer than the road-going CT6. Cadillac says the Escala’s face will begin appearing on production models soon. This includes a new expression of the brand’s vertical lighting, a brand signature since 1948.

Other details include a three-dimensional precision pattern in the grille design and 22-inch wheels with two layers of spokes.

“Escala is a concept with two clear objectives,” said Johan de Nysschen, president of Cadillac’s global operations. “First, Escala is a statement of intent for the next iteration of the Cadillac design language, and also technical concepts in development for future Cadillac models. Secondly, Escala builds Cadillac’s aspirational character, signaling the brand’s return to the pinnacle of premium.”

On the inside, an array of three curved OLED screens is a prominent feature in the front of the cabin. The thin, curved displays are layered in front of the driver, with the back sides wrapped in hand-stitched leather embossed with the Cadillac script. The array of screens consolidate the traditional “cluster” of driving gauges with the “centre stack” into one integrated unit.

The interior also includes new designs for connectivity and control, providing a prototype for the user experience in development for future production models. The system features a central control module that enables the driver to execute commands using voice and gesture control technology.

“Escala is an expressive symbol of reward and an exhilarating driving experience. On the interior, we pushed further. It’s about precision and ingenuity in craftsmanship, and the artistic integration of technology,” says Andrew Smith, executive director of Cadillac Global Design.

Under the hood, the Escala is powered by a new 4.2-litre twin-turbo V8 engine, a prototype of a new system in development for future Cadillac models.

Source: Cadillac

Mercedes-Benz is adding to its AMG GT family with two roadster variants of the recently unveiled AMG GT R coupe.

While the entry level AMG GT manages an output of 469 bhp, the more powerful of the two new open-top sports cars – the AMG GT C – has its 4.0-litre V8 engine ramped up to deliver 549 bhp, with maximum torque of 501 lb-ft available from 1900 to 5750 rpm.

Weighing 1660 kg, zero to 62 mph is claimed to take 3.7 seconds and top speed is listed at 196 mph.

As well as more output and torque, the GT C also gets a wider rear track and active rear axle steering. Double wishbones, meanwhile, guide the wheels, which get a staggered setup – 19-inch up front and 20-inch at the rear.

Structural changes include the bodyshell been reinforced further to take account of the car’s design as a roadster: side skirts with greater wall thicknesses and more chambers make the structure more rigid, for example.

The dashboard support is also braced against the windscreen surround by additional struts, and a strut tower brace between the soft top and the tank reinforces the rear axle. A cross-member behind the seats supports the fixed roll-over protection system.

Both roadsters are transformed from coupes to open-top cars in around eleven seconds, at speeds of up to 31 mph.

The GT C also comes equipped with a lithium-ion battery, and has more exclusive appointments on the inside such as a nappa leather interior, the AMG performance steering wheel and an additional transmission mode dubbed ‘Race’.

Both convertible versions will make their official global debuts later on this month at the Paris motor show.

Source: Mercedes-AMG

The upcoming Paris motor show will see the official unveiling of the new GTC4Lusso T, the first four-seater in Ferrari’s history to sport a turbo-charged V8 engine.

While the exterior styling remains unchanged to the V12 model revealed earlier in the year, the new GT variant has rear-wheel-only drive, lighter overall weight and increased weight bias towards the rear – a figure of 46:54 to be precise.

The 3.9-litre V8 turbo engine’s maximum power output is 602 bhp at 7,500 rpm while maximum torque of 560 lb-ft is available at between 3,000 and 5,250 rpm.

Ferrari engineers say the GTC4Lusso T’s dynamic control systems have also been specifically calibrated to boost responsiveness to commands. In particular, the four-wheel steering mechanism, which is integrated with Side Slip Control, is claimed to make for more rapid response to steering wheel inputs entering and exiting corners, owing to the rear wheels steering in the same direction as the front ones.

There’s also Variable Boost Management to get rid of turbo lag and variable torque curves between 3rd and 7th gear, leading to more longitudinal acceleration.

Source: Ferrari

Mercedes-AMG has revealed its third-generation E 63 – in the shape of the E 63 4MATIC+ and E 63 S 4MATIC+.

The latter’s 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine generates 604 bhp and 626 lb-ft of torque, thereby making it the most powerful engine ever installed in an E-Class. Zero to 62 mph is achieved in a claimed 3.4 seconds.

Both models are fitted with a specially tuned AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT (Multi Clutch Technology) nine-speed automatic transmission. Both versions will also come with AMG’s Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive system, which means torque distribution on the front and rear axles will be fully variable for the first time.

On the outside, AMG designers have tinkered with new E 63’s exterior styling, giving it a sportier look than the regular E-Class. Key changes include a new radiator grille and coupé-style inset bonnet. The front also grows 17 millimetres wider to accommodate the greater track width and the large 20-inch wheels.

“The new E 63 models represent the biggest step forward we’ve ever taken from one generation to the next,” says Mercedes-AMG boss, Tobias Moers.

The new car will make its global debut at next month’s Los Angeles motor show. In the UK, it will go on sale mid-January with the first cars expected to arrive from May 2017.

Source: Mercedes-AMG

Chevrolet has revealed the 2017 Camaro ZL1 has lapped the Nürburgring Nordschleife in a blistering 7:29.60. The new ZL1’s lap time is therefore 11.67 seconds quicker than the previous ZL1’s fast lap.

The only changes made to the ZL1 were the installation of data acquisition equipment, a roll hoop and Sparco racing seats with six-point harnesses. Otherwise, the car was production stock, including the 6.2-litre supercharged LT4 V8 making 650 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque.

The engine was also paired with the standard 10-speed automatic transmission, though the latter was set to Track mode to provide optimal gear selection without the need to manually select gears.

Chevrolet engineers say the car’s design features helped achieve the record lap time. Elements such as the lift-reducing front fascia with cooling ducts, full underbody shielding, ZL1-specific rear spoiler and diffuser, and 11 heat exchangers are all said to have played a crucial part.

“The 5th-Generation ZL1 is a testament to the advanced design and technology of the new ZL1,” said Al Oppenheiser, Camaro chief engineer. “From the improved aerodynamics, mass reduction and 650-horsepower LT4 to the Magnetic Ride Control, electronic limited-slip differential and Custom Launch Control, the ZL1 was designed to take on the world’s most challenging track”.

Source: Chevrolet

Ford has today revealed an all-new, track-ready turnkey Mustang racecar that’s ready to compete around the globe – the Mustang GT4.

Unveiled at the 2016 SEMA Show in Las Vegas, the car has been designed and engineered jointly by Ford Performance and Multimatic Motorsports to compete in sports car championship racing series globally. This includes the GT4 European Series, which visits Silverstone circuit for the UK leg.

The Mustang GT4 will put Ford head-to-head with competition from Porsche and Aston Martin among others – in a mirror of the popular FIA World Endurance Championship, where the Ford Chip Ganassi Racing Ford GT takes on the Aston Martin Vantage GTE, Porsche 911 RSR and Ferrari 488 GTE

The designers say it’s inspired by the Shelby GT350R-C that won the IMSA Continental Tire SportsCar Challenge championship just last month. Key aerodynamic enhancements include a rear wing, front splitter, hood venting, diveplanes and rear diffuser.

Under the hood, the racecar is equipped with the next generation, naturally aspirated 5.2-litre V8 racing engine specifically tuned for GT4 competition. The powerplant, which is mated to a six-speed Holinger paddle shift transmission, has been engineered and built by Ford Performance in partnership with Roush Yates Engines.

Additional powertrain details include a dry sump oiling system, ZF-developed twin-plate racing clutch and flywheel.

On the interior, the car gets a full FIA-compliant roll cage and race-oriented dash logger from MoTeC.

“The Mustang GT4 is equipped to compete and win on tracks around the globe, and we expect it to be as popular with racers as its production sibling is with consumers,” says David Pericak, global director of Ford Performance.

Source: Ford

A racing-inspired version of the Lexus LC 500, created by Gordon Ting/Beyond Marketing, has debuted at the 2016 SEMA Show.

Claimed to be the world’s first customised LC 500, the car features aerodynamic body work, upgraded suspension, brakes, wheels, tyres, and new interior design by Evasive Motorsports and an engine build carried out by Hard Media and D SPORT Magazine, turning the Lexus 5.0-litre V8 engine, which is also shared with RC F and GS F, into a 5.6-litre with 525 bhp.

The body was prepped by Signature Autobody for the yellow wrap, while aerodynamic upgrades include an Artisan Spirit Custom Lexus LC Kit, featuring custom fender flares, a front diffuser, side skirts, a rear diffuser and rear wing. KW Suspension featuring a hydraulic lift system with a height adjustable spring kit rounds out the performance enhancements.

The four corners of the vehicle feature 22″ HRE P101 wheels in satin charcoal with Pirelli P Zero Nero tyres, and are mated to Brembo brakes with a custom caliper colour. Carbon-fibre Sparco race seats accompany the Evasive Motorsports GT3 spec race interior and safety cage.

Source: Lexus

Cadillac has today revealed the all-new 2017 DPi-V.R race car. The US carmaker has also confirmed it will compete in the Prototype (P) class in the 2017 IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship series.

The new machine, which becomes the first prototype race car from Cadillac since 2002, will first be driven competitively at the 2017 IMSA season opener — the Rolex 24 At Daytona at the end of January — by teams from Wayne Taylor Racing and Action Express Racing; the latter having won the last three WeatherTech Championship Prototype titles.

“Cadillac is proud to return to the pinnacle of prototype racing in North America after a 14-year absence,” said Johan de Nysschen, president of Cadillac. “Cadillac’s V-Performance production models — the ATS-V and CTS-V — are transforming our brand’s product substance, earning a place among the world’s elite high performance marques. The Cadillac DPi-V.R further strengthens our V-Performance portfolio, placing Cadillac into the highest series of sports car racing in North America.”

Cadillac designers say the DPi-V.R has been shaped to perform on the track via extensive testing in the wind tunnel, as the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship series is currently the fastest and most technologically advanced sports car racing series in North America.

“The DPi-V.R race car was an exciting new canvas for the Cadillac design and sculpting team,” said Andrew Smith, executive director of Global Cadillac Design. “The studio embraced the opportunity to interpret the Cadillac form language, line work and graphic signature for this premier prototype racing application. Every detail of the final design was selected to support the car’s on-track performance and unmistakable Cadillac presence.”

Some of the design details giving the DPi-V.R car its distinctive Cadillac appearance and presence include the vertical lighting signature and a canopy graphic inspired by the Cadillac daylight opening. Even subtle cues such as the cooling vents and the air intake were designed in the studio, the latter in the trapezoidal shape of the Cadillac crest.

The vehicle is propelled by a race-prepared, normally aspirated 6.2 litre V8 engine that shares inherent architecture with the engines of the third-generation CTS-V and fifth-generation Escalade. The engine produces approximately 600 bhp when tuned for racing as defined by IMSA-mandated air restrictors, with a maximum allowable RPM of 7,600. The engine transfers power to the rear wheels through an X-TRAC paddle-shift transmission.

Cadillac says its design team has also collaborated with key partners including chassis builder Dallara, teams from Wayne Taylor Racing and Action Express Racing and ECR Engines to prepare the race car over the past year.

Source: Cadillac

The Ferrari World Finals event in Daytona this weekend saw the unveiling of the latest model to join the ranks of Ferrari’s international Challenge racing series.

The 488 Challenge is the sixth model to participate in the one-make series which, in 2017, marks its 25th anniversary.

The 488 Challenge is the first ever turbo-charged model to race and is the most powerful Challenge car ever, powered by the 3.9-litre V8 derived from the series production engine that took the overall 2016 International Engine of the Year Award.

As a result of revisions carried out to the car’s engine, aerodynamics and chassis, the 488 Challenge reaches new levels of performance, taking a second off the Fiorano lap time of the preceding 458 Challenge EVO for a new record of 1’15.5”.

Compared to the production 488 GTB V8, the Challenge’s powertrain features specific engine mapping, optimised for racing performance, and shorter gear ratios. The variable torque management has been modified to prompt the driver to shift up at the right moment during longitudinal acceleration. The F1 DCT transmission features a new racing shift strategy which enables the car to accelerate from a standstill to maximum revs in 4th gear in six seconds. Further improvements include a reduction in overall powertrain weight.

With regard to vehicle dynamics, Ferrari’s Slip Slip Control (SSC) software makes its first ever appearance on a Challenge car. The SSC is integrated in the vehicle electronic dynamic controls and is calibrated, along with the traction control and E-Diff3, to improve turn-in, cornering and acceleration out of corners.

To enable Challenge drivers to tailor the car’s handling to their particular driving style, the vehicle control functions, namely, traction and braking, are now governed independently owing to the adoption of three manettinos. One is dedicated just to braking, while the other two, set either side of the steering wheel, govern the traction control and electronic differential.

These two manettinos regulate the two phases of traction control, meaning they work independently on when and how the intervention activation occurs. The right-hand manettino (TC1) governs ‘when’, in other words the point of intervention under acceleration. The left-hand one (TC2) instead governs ‘how’, controlling the degree of intensity of torque reduction as it senses the rear wheels spin.

In such a race-oriented application, the combined action of the two regulations is said to provide better integration between the driver’s expectations and the vehicle’s response, especially when referred to the varying conditions met during racing. As a result the average acceleration out of a reference bend (Monza) is improved by 11.6%, owing to the better torque delivery controlled by the evolved traction control and differential.

Externally, the most noticeable design changes to the 488 Challenge compared to the production car regard the aerodynamics. To achieve the technical objective of increasing the car’s aero efficiency while respecting the design, the engineers say they worked closely with the Ferrari Styling Centre. The front radiator layout was reworked, inverting the rake so that they are now inclined towards the rear. This solution improves the air flow over the radiators in racing conditions whilst, at the same time, reducing drag. The new layout required new vents at the bottom of the bumper ahead of the wheels.

The front bumper itself has been completely redesigned with a more pronounced splitter and flicks to increase downforce and balance the rear load, for a 7% improvement in efficiency compared to the 458 Challenge EVO.

The front bonnet is all new with triple vents and integrated flaps to direct the hot airflow from the radiators rearwards. To increase stability at high speeds, the 488 Challenge features a bigger rear wing, with an air foil profile similar to that used on the 2016 FIA World Endurance Championship-winning 488 GTE, which alone increases efficiency by 9% compared to the 458 Challenge EVO.

The intakes on the rear flanks now take cooling air to the rear brakes, optimising downforce, while the engine air intakes are now positioned laterally under the rear spoiler, taking advantage of the high pressure generated in this area.

Source: Ferrari

Ferrari has revealed a new strictly limited series of bespoke cars, the J50, at a special event held at the National Art Center in Tokyo to mark the brand’s 50th anniversary in Japan.

Based on the 488 Spider, the J50 is a two-seater, mid-rear-engined roadster that marks a return to the targa body style that the designers claim is evocative of several Ferrari road cars of the 1970s and 1980s.

Created by Ferrari’s Special Projects department and designed by the Ferrari Styling Centre team in Maranello, the bodywork is all new and is indicative of a new design language that will be introduced on future Ferraris.

Sitting on bespoke 20-inch forged rims, the car’s flank is dominated by the converging interplay between two main guiding lines: the slanted top edge of the side window, continuous with the windscreen, and the raked black swage line which rises from the low-set nose until it vanishes in the air intake aft of the doors.

While the “helmet visor” effect, which spawns from the window graphic, is somewhat reminiscent of Ferrari’s open competition barchettas going as far back as the 1950s, the black dividing line is a new interpretation of a recurring Ferrari styling cue seen on famous models such as the GTO, F40 and F50. Circling around the front of the car below knee height, it is a key element which alters the perception of the beltline, setting it at a much lower height than usual.

The bonnet section is also lower than normal, and is inset with two carbon-fibre air channels that combine with slenderised LED headlights to create a diminutive and sharper looking front mass.

For aerodynamic purposes, the radiators have been positioned closer together, and the front bumper has been completely redesigned. The windscreen header rail has also been lowered to allow more airflow over the aero foil and thus over the rear spoiler.

The tail section, meanwhile, sees an interplay of graphic design themes and three-dimensional elements. For example, the engine is framed by a transparent polycarbonate cover which is shaped to provide a visual extension of the two separate roll hoops protecting the heads of driver and passenger, while a transverse aero foil projects as a bridge between the hoops.

At the very back of the car, there is the traditional Ferrari quad taillight design, albeit tucked beneath a raised, all-black wing profile. The rear diffuser also features an extractor shape, which is claimed to have been inspired by jet engine afterburners.

Underneath, the J50 is powered by a 680 hp version of the 3.9-litre V8 that won the overall International Engine of the Year Award this year. Just 10 examples of the car are set to be built.

Source: Ferrari

Lexus has revealed a new yacht concept that envisions how the brand might expand in the future into new areas of lifestyle and recreation.

Dubbed the “Lexus Sport Yacht”, the boat’s origins can be traced back a few years to the Toyota Marine Department’s preparations for a new range of premium Ponam yachts that are soon to be launched in Japan.

Toyota boss Akio Toyoda, having been invited to spend a few days driving the new craft, is said to have been impressed by the power of the turbodiesel engines and the handling and stability of the hull designs. Also serving as Lexus’ chief branding officer, he figured a luxury yacht might complement the brand’s product range.

A brief was therefore given to two separate teams at the Lexus Design Centre in Japan to create an open sport yacht for recreational day sailing, accommodating six to eight people, and powered by twin Lexus V8 engines. The concepts were then submitted for evaluation in the summer of 2015.

“This allowed us to explore how Lexus design language could be applied to a maritime idea,” says Yoshihiro Sawa, Lexus vice president. “For the Lexus Design Centre this project has been very exciting. The effort is valuable to us as it stirs our creative energies and pushes our imagination to design and lifestyle possibilities outside of the automotive realm we know so well.”

The selected proposal was refined throughout 2015, with Toyota’s Marine Department engineering the construction and on-board marine systems.

The Japanese manufacturer subsequently chose the Marquis-Carver Yacht Group, based in Wisconsin in the USA, to build the concept, based on its engineering and manufacturing capabilities and its skills in working with large, hand-laid, composite structures.

In terms of design, the yacht features an upper deck and outer hull that are bonded around an inner structure. Each piece is a single, massive structure made from hand-laid carbon-fibre.

Lexus says the CFRP construction saves almost a tonne compared to the weight of a similar yacht made from fibreglass. The underwater hull also has a stepped design to reduce drag and improve handling balance at high speeds.

Measuring 12.7 metres long, the boat is powered by twin 5.0-litre V8 petrol engines, based on the same unit featured in the RC F coupe, GS F sport saloon and the new LC 500 luxury coupe. Each engine produces more than 440 bhp, driving the yacht at speeds up to 43 knots, or 49 mph, through a pair of hydraulically controlled inboard/outboard stern drives. A bow-thruster with joystick control aids with docking.

The captain is able to monitor and control the boat’s on-board systems from a touchscreen panel. Screens show GPS navigation, digital charts, surface radar, underwater sonar, lighting and entertainment systems. The captain’s seat is power-adjustable with armrests that fold out to become jump seats on either side.

The standing-height forward passenger cabin, meanwhile, is finished in leather with wood and glass elements. Sofa seating for six, a table and air conditioning add to the detailing.

In the galley there is a two-burner stove, sink and under-counter refrigerator. The facilities in the head include a shower.

Designed and built primarily as a running proof-of-concept, Lexus says the yacht remains a bespoke, one-off project for now; there are currently no plans to put the boat into production.

Source: Lexus

Ford has officially revealed the 2018 Mustang, with the car getting a slightly more leaner, smoother look, complete with a new front and rear-end design.

Specific exterior styling revisions include a lower, remodelled hood and grille, upper and lower front grilles, and a new position for the hood vents. For the first time the entire Mustang line will also feature all-LED front lights.

At the back, the refreshed car gets revised LED taillamps, plus a new bumper, fascia and optional performance spoiler.

The designers say all of the changes have helped improve the car’s aerodynamic performance.

On the inside, the 2018 model makes available Ford’s first 12-inch all-digital LCD screen in the dashboard. The centre console also adds a new hand-stitched wrap with contrast stitching and padded knee bolsters while door handles, rings and bezels are finished in aluminium.

Additional details include restyled seating surfaces featuring new patterns and colours, as well as a new key fob design.

New tech features, meanwhile, include pre-collision assist with pedestrian detection, distance alert, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist.

Under the bonnet, there’s a 2.3-litre EcoBoost four-cylinder engine or a 5.0-litre V8 unit. The latter has been completely reworked and is now claimed to be more powerful as well as revving higher.

The manual transmission for both engine options has been upgraded for better torque. For the V8, it has been totally redesigned to include a twin-disc clutch and dual-mass flywheel to increase torque capability and deliver more efficient clutch modulation.

A new 10-speed automatic transmission, complete with steering wheel-mounted shift paddles, is also available with both engines. Compared to the previous six-speed, the new 10-speed transmission is claimed to deliver quicker shift times, better low-speed tip-in response and reduced friction losses.

Chassis changes include new shock absorbers for better ride control, a new cross-axis joint at the rear to increased lateral stiffness, and stabiliser bars for sharper response and handling.

The new Mustang is expected to go on sale in the UK at the start of 2018.

Source: Ford

Ford has taken the covers off the new Mustang convertible – less than a week after revealing the facelifted 2018 coupe version.

While the photos only show a “pre-production version”, the open-top carries the same styling tweaks as the newly-revealed coupe, namely, a new front and rear-end design.

However, although it appears to be every bit the same as the hardtop on the outside, Ford engineers have yet to disclose exactly what internal structural and chassis changes have been made to the convertible compared to the coupe – and how these might have impacted the car’s performance.

The convertible will certainly get the same engines as the coupe, which Ford says deliver better performance than ever before.

As revealed by the U.S. carmaker last Tuesday, both the 2.3-litre EcoBoost engine and 5.0-litre V8 have now been recalibrated specifically for the Mustang – and both can be matched to an all-new available 10-speed automatic transmission.

The new convertible will go on sale in North America this autumn.

Source: Ford