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Jaeger-LeCoultre AMVOX2 Chronograph Racing Paris
The 2009 edition of Le Mans 24 Hours thrilled both motor sports enthusiasts and fine watchmaking devotees. Fifty years on from Aston Martin's victory in the 1959 Le Mans 24 Hours, the Aston Martin Racing team has exceeded all expectations by finishing an excellent fourth overall in this year's race, having been quickest of the petrol runners from start to finish. As part of the three-year partnership signed between the two exceptional brands this spring, Jaeger-LeCoultre celebrated Le Mans with two limited editions of the AMVOX2 Chronograph Racing model, which is still the only chronograph operating without push pieces thanks to its revolutionary patented vertical-trigger system. Following the success of the 2 AMVOX2 Chronograph Racing presented at Le Mans 2009, Jaeger-LeCoultre just launched a new limited edition of 24 pieces of its iconic chronograph, only available at Jaeger-LeCoultre boutique in Pairs, Place Vendôme . This exclusive edition features a black PVD-coated grade 5 titanium case with black and white dial, and black luminescent numerals. The dial decoration revealing the movement reproduces the characteristic gridwork motif of car radiator grills and is framed by a black flange. The movement bridges and plates are coated with ruthenium, while the chronograph levers in orange eloxed aluminium appear through an opening between 4 and 8 o'clock. Jaeger-LeCoultre boutique in Paris will receive the first pieces of this exclusive limited edition of 24 last week of November. (...)
ALFEX Black Light 5624
Alfex presents the first wristwatch in the world with a three-dimensional dial. The markings are made of transparent sapphire glass, and the hands travel under the markings. The name Black Light describes the properties that make reading the time by night a sensational experience, thanks to the markings with Superluminova. The name Black Light is an oxymoron, which, in rhetoric, means a formulation of two contrary concepts. This figure of speech is used only if the inner contradiction is intentional and serves to create an emphatic description of a multi-faceted content. The new design piece in the Alfex family is absolutely functional by day as well as by night. Its jet black dial spreads bright light, and its unique three-dimensional design allows the wearer to virtually immerse himself in the watch. The Black Light model is an absolute must for every design addict. All Black Line models bear the Swiss-Made label, are constructed of anti-allergenic stainless steel with an ETA movement of precious stones. In addition, the case has an anti-reflexive sapphire glass and is waterproof to 5 ATM. Black Line models are available in select stores in two versions: steel case with integrated black leather watchband, and case with black IP cover and integrated black leather watchband. (...)
Big Bang Ayrton Senna: Act Two In Tokyo
Whereas the first Big Bang was launched during the F1 Grand Prix in Sao Paulo in 2007, today Hublot and the Instituto Ayrton Senna unveiled another side of Ayrton's life not previously seen. The doors are open to an exhibition of photographs of Ayrton taken in his private and public life by a close friend, Japanese photographer Norio Koike. Now 50 years old, Koike met Ayrton Senna in 1988 and very quickly won his trust. A relationship of friendship and complicity enabled him to take photos of the champion at different times, often at just the right moment! Sincerity and genuine intimacy radiate from these pictures that, until today, had remained unpublished. After Ayrton Senna’s death, Norio Koike bequeathed these photos to the Instituto Ayrton Senna. Today we have the pleasure of paying tribute to his work and also support the important work of the institute that helps millions of children in Brazil. The Instituto Ayrton Senna, a non-profit organisation, was founded to honour Senna’s ideals: his dream was to bring more dignity and equity to his country. It is dedicated to the education of children, at school as well as in society, to enable them to develop their capacities to the full. Since its foundation 14 years ago by Viviane Senna, 9.4 million children have benefited from its programs in 25 Brazilian states. Over 85 million US dollars have been invested to enable it to pursue its educational objectives. The Big Bang Foudroyante Senna, a 500-piece numbered limited series, sports the colours of Brazil like the first edition: a yellow and green split-seconds hand, yellow minute markers, Brazilian flag on the case-side element, and Ayrton Senna’s signature in green on a matt black dial. Its split-seconds chronograph movement features a new complication, the Foudroyante, that enables the calculation of one-eighth of a second. The serial numbers on the back are engraved in yellow ink on black ceramic, and the logo “Instituto Ayrton Senna” appears as a transfer on the sapphire crystal. (...)
500 Fathoms Beneath the Sea
On the eve of the Baselworld 2009 watch show, Blancpain presents the “big sister” of its now famous Fifty Fathoms watch: the brand-new 500 Fathoms. More high-performance and high-tech than ever, the brand’s latest diver’s watch displays an uncompromisingly sporting design. Water resistant to 1000 metres, it is equipped with a helium decompression valve that is vital when diving in a closed environment. The ultra-virile 500 Fathoms is fitted with a 48 mm-diameter titanium case – an unusual size for Blancpain. Presented as the ultimate sports watch, the 500 Fathoms is making a striking entrance into the collection of Blancpain diver’s watches. Endowed with a new face, a new size and new performances, the 500 Fathoms is water-resistant to 1000 metres. It features a brushed titanium case measuring 48 mm in diameter, equipped with a crown guard. Placed inside the case at 10 o’clock, a self-winding decompression valve guarantees the security and the reliability of the watch, without requiring any handling on the part of the wearer. To enhance readability, Blancpain has designed large phosphorescent Arabic numerals that are hollowed into the sunray-brushed metal appliques. The luminescent coating on the hour-markers, bezel markings and hands, along with the red tip of the sweep seconds hand, ensure optimal readability in all circumstances. The luminescent base of the black dial reveals its fluorescence only in the dark, while the date appears in white against a black background at 4 o’clock. The unidirectional ratcheted bezel facilitates handling and avoids any involuntary extension of the dive time. Crafted in titanium and sapphire crystal, it features a gentle cambered relief that reduces the risk of impacts. The 500 Fathoms is powered by the self-winding Calibre 1315, specifically designed to equip sports watches. It incorporates a glucydur balance with micrometric regulating screws, which helps to prevent any jarring from disturbing the smooth running of the watch. Three series-coupled barrels guarantee constant energy and a five-day power reserve. The calendar system enables fast adjustment of the date at midnight in both directions. Another noteworthy feature of the 500 Fathoms is its sapphire crystal allowing one to admire its self-winding movement, as well as its engraved oscillating weight shaped like a boat propeller, without compromising either water resistance or safety. The new 500 Fathoms is equipped with a sturdy, sporty and watertight strap in rubber-lined black sail canvas. A brand-new triple-blade folding clasp secured with two pushers on either sides sets the finishing touch, while an additional rubber strap and the implement required to fit it complete the set which comes in an ultra-rugged presentation box designed to withstand extreme conditions. The performances and the reliability of the 500 Fathoms represent a major new technical accomplishment bearing the unmistakable signature of Blancpain, which is thereby eloquently reaffirming the expertise of its manufacture in the demanding world of diver’s watches. (...)
RADO Chronograph Platinum Matt
The all-ceramic True collection is an invitation to enter the world of Rado. It features a unique coating technique that reproduces the colour of platinum with an exceptional matt aspect. By absorbing light, its ceramic is enriched with deep grey-brown tones. The dial underlines the monochromatic aspect of the piece, displaying its split-second chronograph counters while two rows of hourmarkers, each with their own direct-drive hands, measure seconds and minutes. The contemporary True Chronograph Platinum Matt is generous in size and unpretentious in appearance. (...)
One Million $ Black Caviar
Hublot presents the quintessence of “invisible visibility” in a uniform range of black tones! The watchmaking brand and the setting workshop Bunter SA have together developed a World Première with a completely invisible setting, using only black diamonds. It’s a world's first and technological and artistic achievement. The dream of combining key Hublot concepts – invisible visibility, “all Black”, watchmaking tradition and state-of-the-art technology – has become a reality thanks to the creativity, the ingenuity, and a touch of the “crazy” that spurred on its designers to create such a masterpiece. The high level of micro-mechanic sophistication, combined with the dexterity of the human hand, has resulted in the One Million $ Black Caviar Bang. Its setting is very complex. The difficulty resides in the unusual lines of the Big Bang case – round but with sharp angles. The white gold, one-piece construction of the case does not reveal one grain of gold, and the diamonds, cut in mysterious ways, seem to hold together as if by magic. The only visible feature is the black and deep tones of the diamonds, shining in their harmonious alignment. This unique piece, which houses a Tourbillon, symbolizes the fusion between watchmaking and jewelery, between tradition and technology, and between glittering and invisibility. The vibration that emanates from it gives rise to an emotion tinged with fascination. As Jean-Claude Biver says: “When each element is crafted individually and in coherence with the one right next to it, this is invisible from the outside but creates a vibration of harmony which is visible and gives rise to emotion in those who perceive it”. Creating this exceptional watch demanded over 2000 hours of meticulous work, from design to final adjustment, without forgetting the research and development, programming of the machines, choice of tools, diamond cutting, optical checking of each part, and setting and casing. 544 VVS TW-IF quality baguette diamonds adorn the watch’s case, dial, crown and deployant clasp. (...)
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McLaren Automotive: the launch of the MP4-12C
Today at the McLaren Technology Centre (MTC), Ron Dennis (Chairman) and Antony Sheriff (Managing Director) confirmed McLaren Automotive’s plans for a range of highly efficient, high-performance sports cars. The first in the range, a lightweight, high-quality, mid-engined two-seat sports car called the MP4-12C, will be produced at the new £40 million McLaren Production Centre (MPC) that is set to become a showcase facility for the UK’s manufacturing and technology industries. Up to 300 new jobs will be generated directly as a result at McLaren, with many hundreds more indirectly through the construction programme, supply chain, and brand new global retail network. Up to 1,000 12Cs will be delivered in 2011 through a global network of dedicated McLaren retailers in all major markets in North America, Europe, Middle-East, South Africa, and Asia-Pacific. Over 500 retailers have applied for an initial 35 franchises in 19 countries that will be confirmed by summer 2010. McLaren Automotive’s customers and retail partners are set to benefit from the company’s focus on aftersales, quality, innovation and ‘clean-sheet’ business plans. And initial interest is very strong with 1,600 ‘expressions of interest to purchase’, 12 months before launch. McLaren’s ambition for its new automotive company is to compete head-to-head against the world’s best sports car brands with a range of two-seat cars, whilst introducing innovative technologies, business practices and customer experiences that will re-write the rule book for the automotive industry. McLaren is approaching its new road car business in the same focused, agile and passionate way that the company’s motorsport division has practiced throughout its 40 year history as the world’s most successful motor racing team. The 12C will be ‘pure’ McLaren. All parts, from the V8 twin-turbo race-derived engine to all switches and electronics, are designed by McLaren. Carbon lies at the core of the 12C, just as it has done in every race car or road car produced by McLaren in the last 30 years. The 12C features a revolutionary one-piece moulded carbon chassis - the MonoCell - that cascades technologies into a new market for this strong and lightweight material. The 12C will be the first car in the £125,000 to £175,000 market segment to feature a carbon chassis. Clothing the 12C are panels of aluminium and SMC that are 11 percent lighter than on any other car. A key driver in McLaren’s ability to use such lightweight engineering solutions is that the MonoCell delivers all of the car’s structural integrity: the body panels exist purely to channel air rapidly and efficiently for cooling, downforce, or aerodynamic purposes. The design of the car, honed by the McLaren engineers and designers under the guidance of Design Director, Frank Stephenson, therefore follows classic function over form principles. Every panel, surface and line is working to support air-flow. The results are new performance benchmarks in power, dynamics, efficiency, quality, safety and comfort that offer the perfect package for a full range of customer demands. It will be the most powerful car in its class with 600PS and 600Nm supporting a 0–200 km/h sprint of under 10 seconds. Vitally, it will also be the most fuel efficient car in its class by some margin, aiming to produce less than 300 g/km CO²: the 12C will produce each unit of power more efficiently than virtually every other car in the world featuring an internal combustion engine; petrol, diesel or hybrid. The 12C’s gestation has followed a Formula 1-inspired development programme. Beginning in McLaren’s own Formula 1 simulator, and with close integration of Formula 1 and McLaren Automotive engineers who are all based under one roof at the MTC, the 12C test team is set to break through the one million miles of testing in spring 2010. The 12C has been rigorously developed in every continent in which it will go on sale, and exposed to extremes such as minus 50°C in the Arctic, over 50°C and dust storms in the Bahrain summer, and numerous 24 hour sessions at test tracks and circuits such as the Nordschleife at the Nürburgring. But the ultimate examination took place in early March when the 2008 and 2009 Formula 1 world champions enjoyed a run-out in the 12C. Jenson Button and Lewis Hamilton enjoyed a series of high-speed sessions behind the wheel of McLaren’s latest XP-Beta test cars. They assessed many of the car’s performance set-ups and systems, which is set to fine-tune the 12C development team’s final series of testing programmes over the coming months. The first customer car enters McLaren’s existing Production Hall in late-2010, before production transfers to the new MPC in spring 2011, with quality systems developed that combine the best of both hand-built techniques and ‘lean’ production processes. Ron Dennis, Chairman of McLaren Automotive, said: “We have long held the dream of building a range of McLaren high-performance sports cars that take the raw elements of Formula 1 principles, processes and performance and forge them into a unique package; one that offers customer-focused requirements of quality, efficiency, comfort and reliability. “Today’s announcements confirm our intention to challenge convention at the highest levels of automotive design, from a new high-tech home that I am proud to say will deliver jobs, expertise and innovation in manufacturing and engineering.” Antony Sheriff, Managing Director of McLaren Automotive, said: “McLaren Automotive has a track record of delivering two iconic sports car projects that have produced the fastest, most innovative, and the most commercially successful ultimate performance sports cars in history. Now we turn the page to a new challenge: developing a high-performance car company, with a range of sports cars to match. “Our exciting new business combines a blank sheet of paper with the experience of programmes such as the McLaren F1 and our Formula 1 success. We can do things differently, better and more quickly. It’s an almost perfect scenario that will deliver quality, passion and great cars, as well as service to match.” Frank Stephenson, Design Director of McLaren Automotive, said: “Like most designers it’s a boyhood dream to work with high performance sports cars. They are the purest expression of speed and purpose and, with increased consumer demand in this market and environmental aims to the fore, offer designers the ultimate challenge. The 12C design was led by aerodynamics and engineering influenced by the pinnacle of car design – Formula 1 – and it’s a fascinating challenge to work within such inspirational philosophies. “It has been absolutely fundamental, and will remain so in future McLarens, that the design team and engineering teams work hand-in-hand: it makes for a better product and quicker, more effective development. Putting them together makes designers more pragmatic and engineers more creative and, as I have seen at McLaren, delivers great result,” Stephenson concluded. (...)
The new BMW 5 Series Touring
The new BMW 5 Series Touring is the perfect symbiosis of driving pleasure, efficiency, versatility and sporting elegance. The 4th generation of the Business Touring convinces through powerful design aesthetics, modern premium-level functionality and brand-typical driving dynamics combined with exemplary efficiency. Extensive comfort and safety features, which include numerous BMW exclusive driver assistance systems, substantiate the outstanding qualities of the new BMW 5 Series Touring as an upper midrange touring car. Design: Individual styling, sporting elegance. The design of the new BMW 5 Series Touring is characterised by a high level of individuality with regard to its proportions and surface design. Its uniqueness is reflected by dynamic and powerful looks. With its long bonnet, short overhangs, the longest wheelbase in its segment, the stretched silhouette and a steeply inclined roofline, the new BMW 5 Series Touring possesses an elegance unrivalled by its competitors. Versatility: Intelligent solutions for modern functionality. Thanks to a multi-functional interior and intelligent detail solutions, the new BMW 5 Series Touring is fully equipped to meet the most diverse demands. The luggage compartment has a capacity of 560 litres. If desired, an increase in capacity to a maximum of 1,670 litres is guaranteed by 40:20:40 split folding rear seats, which are unique in this segment. The backrest angle is variable by up to 11 degrees. The backrest can be folded down using two control levers inside the luggage compartment, the loading space cover of which is automatically lowered when the tailgate is closed. The separately opening rear window automatically swings upwards at the push of a button. The driving experience: Supreme dynamics and outstanding comfort. The most advanced drivetrain and suspension technologies ensure supreme sportiness and a higher level of motoring comfort. Optional Dynamic Driving Control enables drivers to set the suspension individually to their personal requirements. The new BMW 5 Series Touring features as standard pneumatic suspension on the rear axle, including automatic self-levelling. Adaptive Drive and Integral Active Steering are optionally available. The new BMW 5 Series Touring is making its debut with a choice of two straight-six petrol engines as well as a four-cylinder and a six-cylinder diesel. The BMW 520d Touring is powered by a 135 kW/184 bhp four-cylinder turbo diesel power unit featuring an aluminium crankcase and Common Rail direct injection. It is equipped with Auto Start Stop function as a standard feature, and with an average fuel consumption of 5.2 litres/100km (54.3 mpg) and a CO2 emission level of 137 g/km in an EU test cycle, it achieves the best efficiency in its segment. The straight-six engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo under the bonnet of the BMW 535i Touring, with High Precision Injection and VALVETRONIC, develops a power output of 225 kW/306 bhp. Maximum power output of the straight-six engine featured in the BMW 523i Touring in lean operation is 150 kW/204 bhp. The BMW 530d Touring features a straight six-cylinder diesel with a 180 kW/245 bhp output. Thanks to BMW BluePerformance technology it fulfils the EU6 emission standard. All versions of the new BMW 5 Series Touring fully comply with the EU5 requirement. BMW EfficientDynamics: BMW 5 Series increases the lead even further. All versions of the new BMW 5 Series Touring are optionally available with BMW’s eight-speed automatic transmission. Like the electro-mechanical power steering EPS utilised on all variants, it makes an additional contribution towards efficiency. Depending on the model, the standard BMW EfficientDynamics measures comprise brake energy regeneration, Auto Start Stop function (BMW 520d), gearshift point indicator, demand-dependant ancillary components and active air flap control. An intelligent lightweight construction is obtained through doors, bonnet, front side panels, drivetrain and suspension components made of aluminium. Innovative driver assistance systems by BMW ConnectedDrive. The spectrum of features offered by BMW ConnectedDrive comprises, inter alia, a Parking Assistant, Surround View, collision warning with brake activation in conjunction with Active Cruise Control, Lane Change Warning, Lane Departure Warning, Speed Limit Info, High-beam Assistant, BMW Night Vision with detection of persons as well as Head-up Display. Furthermore, innovative office functions can be utilised via Bluetooth. Joint development and production together with the BMW 7 Series. The BMW 5 Series Touring is based on a newly developed vehicle architecture also used for the BMW 7 Series luxury sedans. Joint production of the BMW 5 Series Touring, the BMW 5 Series Sedan, the BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo and the BMW 7 Series at the BMW Dingolfing Plant, combined with the extensive use of shared components, ensures highly efficient production incorporating maximum possible quality standards. (...)
Pagani Zonda Tricolore in Geneva
On the occasion of the celebration of the 50th Anniversary of the "Frecce Tricolori", Pagani Automobili created the Zonda Tricolore as a tribute to the National Aerobatic Team. In 2010 the aer obatic season of the Frecce Tricolori comes to its 50th anniversary, wich will be celebrated on 11th and 12th September at Rivolto Airport (info: www.aeronautica.difesa.it). The Frecce Tricolori (Italian, literally Tricolour Arrows), officially known as the 313th Aerobatic Training Squadron is the demonstration team of the Italian Air Force, based at Rivolto Air Force Base, in the north-eastern Italian region of Friuli Venezia-Giulia, province of Udine. They were formed in 1961 as an Air Force team, replacing previous teams that had been sponsor ed by various commands by the end of the 1920s. The team flies the Aermacchi MB-339-A/PAN, a two-seat aircraft capable of 898 km/h at sea level, with nine aircraft and a solo (the highest number of aircraft of any aerobatic team in the world). The Frecce Tricolori belong to the legacy of the entir e Italian community. (...)
Audi R8 5.2 quattro convertible Photo Gallery update
With the Gallardo and now the 458 Italia, the Audi R8 5.2 Quattro with its V10 engine is definitively a force to recon with, but one its amazing car drop the top down… We have in front of us a pure piece or art. (...)
Geneva Motor Show 2010 - The new Koenigsegg Agera
Koenigsegg is celebrating 15 year of outstanding performance by unleashing their latest creation - The Agera. Koenigsegg celebrate 15 years of making dream cars, by unleashing their latest jewel – the Koenigsegg Agera. A new supercar aimed to take the Koenigsegg experience to the next level, both on the road and the track. Agera, the Swedish verb “to act”, has been chosen as the name for Koenigsegg´s latest super creation, as it symbolizes the Koenigsegg philosophy well. Koenigsegg is always striving forward, seeking challenges beyond limitations. The new supercar Agera is an outcome of that creative process and its functions respond very well to the given name. When we believe in something, we do it. We act. the car also has to act, when commanded to unleash its performance, forcefully and fawlessly. The development of the Agera has been evolutionary, following the Koenigsegg tradition of continuous improvements, by honing and perfecting the end result, all based on previous experience and innovative mindsets. The focus when developing the Agera was to maximize, driving experience, cornering speed, braking and adaptability, says Christian von Koenigsegg. A testament to time The Koenigsegg Agera is a testament to time. The original shape and concept of the Koenigsegg CC, created 15 years ago, is still valid, fresh and highly competitive today. The Agera still stay true to the original philosophy, shape and size of the original CC. At the same time, it looks, feels and performs like something belonging to the future, with all new content. A Supercar is not better than the tires it use, as it is the only link between the road and the car. Therefore Koenigsegg has a deep and long term collaboration with Michelin, when it comes to tire development. The Agera program will take this collaboration to the next level and is expected to set new standards when it comes to overall performance -wet as well as dry handling. The Agera is as wide at the front as in the rear of the car. This gives very good balance in corners and minimizes body roll. The Agera also features the latest in braking technology, incorporating an adjustable ABS system, 392x36 and 380x34 ventilated and drilled ceramic discs, for unparalleled braking performance and zero fade regardless of track or road condition.Thanks to optimized breathing and Twin Turbo, power is now 910 hp, running on regular petrol. Torque is maximum 1100 nm and is reached at 5100 rpm. There is over 1000 nm of torque available from 2680 to 6100 rpm. The new traction control is the fastest reacting in the industry, with auto adapt functionality for different road conditions and driving styles as well as several manual settings. Koenigsegg has also developed a new type of interior illumination, which is a worlds first in the car industry - Ghost light. The illumination shines through the billet aluminium buttons and surfaces by way of invisible nanotubes, creating excellent visibility of the symbols, as well as a very clean and stylish appearance, framed by an all-new carbon fibre center console and tunnel assembly. Furthermore, the driver can easily select the information he wants displayed in front of him, on the all new multi-info cluster combined with the upgraded infotainment display, ranging from basic functionality, to G force meter, power meters, Sat-nav, music, lap-timer or compasses – to best suit the current driving conditions, be it highway cruising, touring country roads, city navigation or serious track driving. Furthermore the interior features the new Agera stitching and seams, which gives an beautiful fluidity to the interior. All in all the Agera is created to maintain Koenigsegg’s position as one of the most engaging and top performing cars on the road, on the track -on the planet. Still, maintaining the largest luggage space in the industry and the novel Koenigsegg doors and detachable/stow able hardtop, that really makes all Koenigsegg cars stand out. The Agera will be produced in parallel to the Award winning CCX and CCXR models. This gives Koenigsegg the ability to live up to our customers varying wishes and demands. The Agera is on display at the 80th Salon International de l’Auto in Geneva. The pre-production show car will be put through its phases for the coming six month prior to the production car launch of the Agera. Finally, Agera is also short for the Greek word Ageratos, which in ancient Greek means “ageless”. (...)
Ferrari Experimental HY-KERS Hybrid Vehicle
The HY-KERS vettura laboratorio (experimental vehicle) is an example of how Ferrari is approaching the development of hybrid technology without losing sight of the performance traits and driving involvement that have always exemplified its cars. This hybrid project is also aimed at ensuring that Ferrari will be in a position to comply with future CO2 emissions standards, particularly in terms of the urban cycle. City driving is traditionally where sports cars are most penalised as their engines are designed for maximum efficiency and performance at high revs, whereas the urban cycle involves low revs and low engine loads. Ferrari has employed its racing experience to adapt an advanced, lightweight hybrid drivetrain to the 599 GTB Fiorano with the aim of ensuring that vehicle dynamics are unaffected. This was achieved by the careful integration of all system components, positioning them below the centre of gravity and ensuring that interior and luggage space are entirely unaffected. Similarly the flat lithium-ion batteries are positioned below the floorpan. The result is a centre of gravity that is even lower than in the standard car. Ferrari has also applied its F1 technology to the design, engineering and construction of a new kind of electric motor which helps optimise the longitudinal and lateral dynamics of the car, enhancing traction and brake balance. The motor also features a unique cooling and lubrication system for maximum efficiency under all operating temperatures and loads. Weighing about 40 kg, the compact, tri-phase, high-voltage electric motor of the HYKERS is coupled to the rear of the dual-clutch 7-speed F1 transmission. It operates through one of the transmission’s two clutches and engages one of the two gearbox primary shafts. Thus power is coupled seamlessly and instantaneously between the electric motor and the V12. The electric motor produces more than 100 hp as Ferrari’s goal was to offset every kilogram increase in weight by a gain of at least one hp. Under braking the electric drive unit acts as a generator, using the kinetic energy from the negative torque generated to recharge the batteries. This phase is controlled by a dedicated electronics module which was developed applying experience gained in F1 and, as well as managing the power supply and recharging the batteries, the module also powers the engine’s ancillaries (power steering, power-assisted brakes, air conditioning, on-board systems) via a generator mounted on the V12 engine when running 100 per cent under electric drive. It also incorporates the hybrid system’s cooling pump. This experimental vehicle thus maintains the high-performance characteristics typical of all Ferraris while, at the same time, reducing CO2 emissions on the ECE + EUDC combined cycle by 35 per cent. (...)
2011 Bentley Mulsanne
“The new Mulsanne is a thoroughly modern flagship that captures the essence of the Bentley marque. It is elegant yet distinctly sporting in character, delivering effortless performance while within its sumptuous cabin, advanced technology sits discreetly with handcrafted luxury.” Bentley Motors Chairman and Chief Executive, Dr. Franz-Josef Paefgen While paying homage to past Bentley greats, the brief for the new Mulsanne’s design and engineering teams was to create a Bentley that represents the pinnacle of British luxury motoring. The new Mulsanne, designed and engineered at Crewe from the ground-up, reaffirms the marque’s intent to create a new flagship Bentley with refined performance, unparalleled levels of interior luxury and coach building skills to the fore. The return of the Mulsanne name underlines Bentley’s sporting heritage and passion for power and speed. Nothing reflects that prowess better than the legendary Le Mans 24 Hours race. Bentley has enjoyed success on six occasions at Le Mans, where its powerful and reliable race cars have thundered down the long straight into the famous Mulsanne corner, from which the new model takes its name. A pure expression of Bentley design. The design of the new Mulsanne is a unique fusion of sportiness, coachbuilt elegance and solidity. Echoing the Bentley S -Type of the 1950s, the Mulsanne features a bold frontal design dominated by the traditional Bentley matrix grille and highly prominent, classic round inner headlamps with chrome surrounds, flanked by two, smaller outboard lamp clusters, all featuring the latest in lighting technology. The iconic ‘Flying B’ retractable radiator mascot is available as an option. The long bonnet, short front overhang and long rear overhang help to convey a sense of power and movement, reinforced by muscular haunches and sharply sculptured lines which flow gracefully from the front wings to the rear. Uniquely designed 20-inch (and optional 21-inch) wheels reinforce the Mulsanne’s powerful, sporting stance. Design Director Dirk van Braeckel explains the inspiration behind the Mulsanne’s distinctive appearance: “The opportunity to design a new flagship Bentley is something afforded to very few designers. The team set out to create a sculpted form that blended classic Bentley heritage cues with modern lines.” The body is produced in a new manufacturing facility at Bentley’s headquarters in Crewe where traditional metalworking skills, developed over six decades, are still used extensively during the nine-week build process. It is the very opposite of volume-production car-building… but the very epitome of Bentley. The rear screen, for example is fully enveloped by the coachwork. This provides a flowing, flawless line to the rear of the car, complementing the exquisitely formed D-pillars – whose complex curves can only be created by skilled coach-builders. The complex form of the aluminium front wings, impossible to achieve with normal pressing techniques, is created using superforming, a technology usually reserved for the aerospace industry. This also makes the wings lighter, stiffer and provides superb surface definition. New construction techniques meant the designers could also incorporate details such as the ‘floating’ elliptical LED tail lights, which uniquely echo the shape of the exhaust tailpipes. To accentuate the beauty of the bodywork, the Mulsanne features ‘brightware’ exclusively in polished stainless steel, including sill treadplates and matrix grilles. Bentley is the only manufacturer in the world to do this. The door handles incorporate the traditional Bentley ‘knurling’ to their inboard surface for enhanced grip, reflecting the company’s typical attention to detail, while .the sporting character of the Mulsanne is reinforced by front wing vents and wide oval tailpipe finishers. Bentley customers have a world of infinite choice when commissioning their cars. There are over 100 paint colours in the range that include everything from unusual heritage colours, special satin and pearlescent finishes and duo-tone combinations. But the choice does not end there. Through the bespoke world of Bentley Mulliner, unique colours can exactly match a customer’s vision and taste. Sumptuous interior meets advanced technology The latest in-car technologies are discreetly placed within the Mulsanne’s sumptuous interior. A multimedia system with 60GB hard disc drives satellite navigation, audio/video, personal data, telephone and Bluetooth® connectivity. The upper dashboard houses an 8-inch multimedia screen, positioned unobtrusively behind an electrically operated veneered door, while below sits a stylish, leather-lined media player stowage drawer with connectors for iPod, USB, Mini USB and 3.5mm aux. A state-of-the-art 14-speaker audio system with Digital Signal Processing (DSP) and 6-CD autochanger is provided as standard while the Naim for Bentley premium audio system may be specified as an option. This forging of two British luxury brands provides customers with the world’s most powerful production in-car amplifier with 2200 Watts, eight dedicated DSP modes and 20 custom-made speakers, delivering an unparalleled sound quality. A personalised keyless entry system allows multiple pre-programmed configurations and automatically sets radio stations, phone book, seat (including ventilation and massage modes, both front and rear), steering column and seatbelt settings and even the electrically operated rear-seat blinds for side and rear windows. The keyless system operates with the chrome door handles which incorporate touch points to initiate communication with the key for verification and entry. The Mulsanne also features keyless start, having a stop/start button on the centre console. The Bentley interior design team has continued to develop and evolve the luxurious interiors for which their cars are renowned, based on a large-scale, research programme to identify the classic signature features that have defined Bentleys from the 1920s to the present day. Armed with this invaluable resource, the Mulsanne’s design team set itself highly challenging targets for key interior characteristics such as material design, smell, colour harmony and handcrafting. Similar targets were set for the operational refinement and robustness of all control mechanisms. The result is a hand-crafted interior that fully reflects traditional Bentley values, executed to the highest possible standards. As Head of Interior Design, Robin Page says: “Over 170 hours – almost half the entire build process – goes into crafting the interior of the new Mulsanne. At Crewe, Bentley’s way of working is the opposite of mass production – we start where others stop.” The use of wood and leather hides has increased significantly to create an even more refined and luxurious cabin. While classic design features such as bulls-eye air vents (now also fitted in the rear compartment), high-quality mirror-matched wood veneers, leather hides and hand-finished stainless steel are retained, they are mixed with new touches such as beautiful ‘glass’ switches. The entire cabin is encased within a ‘ring of wood’ waistrail with an unbroken panel of wood gracing the Mulsanne’s dashboard. Inverted dial needles within the instrument cluster are evocative of early Bentleys while the entire dashboard and console design is a subtle reminder of the Bentley wings motif. Customers may select from an extensive range of premium quality veneers, unbleached for a natural appearance, and two marquetry options: picture frame and contemporary crossbanding. True to the Bentley ethos, customers may also select from a virtually unlimited palette of leather hides, including 24 ‘standard’ colours, of which three are new for Bentley. This unrivalled choice of veneers, leather hides and paint colours ensures that the needs of all customers can be matched perfectly. Following detailed customer feedback, a traditional tanning process has been re-instated to match the rich, worn leather smell that is so evocative of vintage Bentleys. Only a very few hide suppliers worldwide have the capability to do this. The carpet of the Mulsanne is unique to Bentley, its increased fibre depth, density and feel enhancing cabin quality. It is available in a range of colours to complement each individual hide. Pure wool, deep pile Wilton-weave over mats can add a further touch of comfort and luxury. These exquisite materials are fashioned by craftsmen and women with up to 40 years’ experience. Each steering wheel, for example, can take 15 hours to hand-stitch while stainless steel brightware gleams so perfectly thanks to an intensive 10-hour finishing process. A wood veneer takes five weeks to turn from a rough root ball into a full set of mirror-matched, fine-polished leaves. (...)
TECHART Concept One – Design Study
Individuality and personality, passion and perfection are concepts that substantially stand for TECHART. Yet TECHART is also defined by innovation and richness of ideas, by identification and instinct. At the 80th Motor-Show in Geneva, TECHART proves this once again by presenting the world premiere of the Concept One individualization study. Thomas Behringer, general manager of TECHART Automobildesign GmbH, says: "Concept One provides an exclusive outlook on our second individualization level for the Porsche Panamera model range, which is noticeably different from the first subtle program. The study is defined by concepts such as strength, individuality and self-consciousness, and clearly reflects our customers’ requirements for uniqueness and sportiness. The Motor-Show in Geneva is precisely the perfect platform for presenting the design concept to the world’s public." Impressive exterior In OE quality and fully manufactured from high-quality PU-RIM, the carrara white exterior package convinces owing to its massive and white characteristics. The front apron with integrated air inlets self-consciously emphasizes the design of the sporty 4-seater and also provides an improved air flow of the charge air intercoolers as well as improved brake cooling. A highlight is the distinct, extravagantly designed bonnet with inwrought air outlets. Powerful fenders and side skirts ensure a seamless transition among the wide wheel arches. Trim strips and elegant trim frames in the windows show the individualization down to the smallest detail typical of TECHART. The rear apron with integrated air openings and matching diffuser, together with the height-adjustable rear spoiler, rounds off the distinct exterior design. The double flow, black tail pipe of the TECHART stainless steel sports exhaust system also provide sporty accents in the striking rear of the vehicle. 22-inch TECHART Formula III forged light alloy wheels in exclusive dull platinum gray with Continental Sport Contact 3 tires fit seamlessly into the Porsche Panamera color combination and underline its self-conscious appearance. A look under the bonnet also knows how to convince the study. The TECHART engine optic package with carbon fiber engine covering, TECHART logotype and flash red coating already makes the visitor to the trade fair stand feel the power of the Panamera Turbo – increased once again by TECHART with a power thrust of up to 150 hp. Convincing peak performances The overall design concept for the exterior with a 21-mm wider front axis and a 42-mm wider rear axis - on each side of the body - compared to the serial model is convincing owing to the TECHART-typical suitability for everyday use. The multifunctional TECHART daylight driving headlight system contributes essentially to the active safety of the driver by combining daylight headlights, parking lights and turn signal lights as an LED system unit in one common housing that seamlessly fits into the vehicle front design. The intensity of the lights adjusts automatically to the selected headlight circuit. Additionally, the headlight can also be dimmed for improving the effect of the turn signal lights, even while turning off. TECHART sets standards in the interior TECHART sets standards in the finishing of automobile interiors. As in the areas of technical revision, aerodynamic optimization and exterior design, the passion for perfection is here once again in the sports car that can make the individual ideas of the TECHART customers a reality. TECHART’s saddlery, well-known for valuable manufactured work, convinces in the study’s interior through its unique internal finishing. The TECHART full leather finish in the cocoa and white color combination, leather applications on trim parts in cerbero as well as manually processed cording in phosphor green masterly reflect the unique external appearance in the interior as well. White carpeting in the vehicle’s interior and trunk, the roof liner in alcantara and the white face with phosphor green digits complete the unusual individualization. TECHART’s top-class interior options For the first time in the Concept One Study, TECHART presents the 3-spoke PDK sports steering wheel with shift paddles. The driver can now shift one gear upwards with one hand and one gear downwards with the other one. In addition, the study also shows some exclusive extras: A 10.2-inch ceiling monitor with integrated DVD player, a rear center console and two high-quality folding tables built into the front seats will also help pass the time in the back seat of the Panamera – whether for entertainment or work – this is left to the customer’s personal imagination – as is almost everything at TECHART. (...)
Brabus E V12 Coupe, Geneva Motor Show 2010 World debut
Based on the new Mercedes E-Class coupes, BRABUS builds a luxurious 2+2-seater in small-series production. It is powered by a BRABUS SV12 R Biturbo 800 twelve-cylinder displacement engine that produces 800 hp (788 bhp) / 588 kW of power and a peak torque of 1,420 Nm (1,047 lb-ft). BRABUS, accepted by the German Federal Vehicle Registration Agency (Kraftfahrtbundesamt) as an automobile manufacturer, offers this high-performance automobile capable of reaching speeds in excess of 370 km/h (230 mph) starting at 478,000 Euros MSRP. Like the fourth-generation BRABUS E V12 sedan the new E V12 Coupe is powered by a BRABUS SV12 R Biturbo 800 displacement engine. Drawing upon decades of experience in developing and building high-performance vehicles the twelve-cylinder engine was fitted into the engine bay of the two-door E-Class. The basis for this engine is the twelve-cylinder twin-turbo engine from the latest Mercedes 600 models. Displacement of the engine is increased from 5.5 to 6.3 liters (336 to 384 cu. in.) with the help of a special crankshaft, larger cylinder bore and correspondingly larger pistons. Both three-valve cylinder heads are optimized for mixture flow, and fitted with sport camshafts. Underneath the custom-made hood with integrated carbon-fiber RAM airbox is space for a completely newly developed air intake system. This twin-turbo system was designed from the ground up for the new E V12 generation. It includes two custom high-performance headers with integrated turbochargers and four water-to-air intercoolers. The stainless-steel high-performance exhaust system with free-flow metal catalysts was also custom-tailored for the confined space under the E-Class Coupe. In addition, the BRABUS engine specialists have developed a precision engine management system that controls injection, ignition and driving dynamics systems. The result is an optimal combination of impressive power yield and eco-friendly emissions that meet strict EURO IV exhaust limits. The BRABUS SV12 R Biturbo 800 engine is lubricated with high-tech motor oil from technology partner ARAL. It produces a rated power output of 800 hp (788 bhp) / 588 kW at 5,500 rpm. The even more impressive peak torque of 1,420 Nm (1,047 lb-ft), available already at a low 2,100 rpm, is limited electronically to 1,100 Nm (811 lb-ft). Power is transferred to the rear wheels via a reinforced five-speed automatic transmission and a BRABUS high-performance limited-slip differential. The BRABUS E V12 comes standard with state-of-the-art driving stability programs that can be deactivated at the push of a button. Performance of the coupe is as exceptional as that of the four-door model: The BRABUS E V12 Coupe sprints from 0 ñ 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 3.7 seconds, to 200 km/h (124 mph) in 9.9 seconds, and reaches 300 km/h (186 mph) after a mere 23.9 seconds. For street-legal use the top speed of the Gran Tourismo is limited electronically to 350 km/h (217 mph). Without the limiter the two-door twelve-cylinder car is capable of speeds in excess of 370 km/h (230 mph). This extreme performance also places highest demands on the vehicleís aerodynamic properties. The BRABUS designers went into the wind tunnel to develop a body conversion kit made from high-strength yet especially lightweight carbon fiber. The kit combines sporty design and aerodynamic efficiency to perfection. The BRABUS front was designed to reduce lift on the front axle and to provide all radiators of the V12 with an optimal supply of cooling air. Air outlets in the sides route the air quickly away from the heat exchangers. Another important design feature was to provide the front brakes with cooling air. Integrated LED daytime running lights further increase active safety. A wider track means better directional stability at high speeds. Because of that BRABUS has developed special carbon-fiber sport fenders with integrated air vents for the front axle. Special carbon-fiber rear fenders add 60 millimeters (2.4 in.) to the width of the coupe on the rear axle. The BRABUS E V12 Coupe runs on especially wide wheels fitted with high-performance tires from Pirelli or YOKOHAMA. The 19-inch combination is perfect for the enormous top speed the car is capable of. The wheels are 9.5 inches and 10 inches wide and customers can choose from BRABUS Monoblock designs VI, E, Q and S. Tires in size 265/30 ZR 19 are mounted on the front axle. Size 285/30 ZR 19 tires on the rear axle provide optimal traction. Rocker panels with integrated illuminated BRABUS logo and LED entrance lights route the air stream along the sides with minimum turbulence. They also lend the two-door car a longer, sleeker appearance. The BRABUS rear apron with carbon-fiber diffuser features a centrally mounted reflector and custom-tailored cutouts on either side for the BRABUS quad sport exhaust system. The BRABUS rear spoiler is essential for well-balanced aerodynamics at high speed. To make the BRABUS E V12 Coupe not only a superior road warrior but upon request also an extremely sporty racer on the track the suspension was completely redesigned. The redesign includes special suspension components on front and rear axle that offer a wider range of individual suspension settings. These measures are complemented by a BRABUS coil-over suspension that features a multitude of selectable settings for bound and rebound. The shock absorbers on the front and rear axle feature ten selectable settings for bound and rebound. The ride height has an adjustment range of 35 millimeters (1.4 inches). Sport sway bars can further minimize body roll during fast cornering. The BRABUS high-performance brake system meets the toughest demands, on the road or on the track. The front axle features 12-piston aluminum fixed calipers and vented and grooved steel brake discs measuring 380 x 37 millimeters (15.0 x 1.5 inches). The rear axle stops on six-piston aluminum fixed calipers gripping discs measuring 360 x 28 millimeters (14.2 x 1.1 inches). The BRABUS high-performance brake system incorporates all functions of the standard Brake Assist system of the Mercedes E-Class. The interior combines sporty character with luxurious ambiance. An ergonomically shaped sport steering wheel is part of the equipment list of the BRABUS E V12 Coupe as are sport seats upholstered with the finest leather. The seats provide excellent seating comfort and lateral support. Genuine carbon-fiber trim on dashboard, center console and doors adds further sporty highlights. (...)
New Bentley Continental Supersports Convertible
The Continental Supersports Convertible further strengthens Bentley’s supercar range, following the introduction of the Continental Supersports Coupé in 2009. The new Supersports Convertible, with the same 630PS (621bhp/463kW) twin-turbocharged W12 engine, is the fastest, most potent drop top Bentley has ever built, offering the ultimate Bentley driving experience in the world’s most dramatic convertible. The inspiration for the ‘Supersports’ name is the 1925 Bentley Supersports, a race-bred version of the iconic Bentley 3-litre, that delivered 85bhp when more ordinary cars were equipped with a modest 15bhp. It was also the first production car to reach 100mph – extreme performance in its day. The new, muscular four-seat Supersports Convertible is unmistakably Bentley in its design and craftsmanship but its interior signifies a dramatic re-interpretation of Bentley luxury. Satin-finished carbon fibre, Alcantara™ and ‘Soft Grip’ leather create a unique ambience with a distinctly sporting and contemporary style. All models in the Continental model range, including the new Supersports Convertible are now capable of running on both petrol (gasoline) and E85 bioethanol or any combination of the two, reaffirming Bentley’s ongoing commitment to make all its cars bio-fuel compatible by 2012. Pioneered by the Supersports Coupe, this FlexFuel technology offers a reduction of up to 70 per cent in CO2 emissions on a ‘well-to-wheel’ basis, a measure of a fuel’s net contribution to the atmosphere, not just tailpipe emissions. To ensure seamless power delivery, the on-board fuel supply system detects the blending ratio of the fuel in the tank and ensures that power and torque remain constant regardless of the ratio of petrol to biofuel. Bentley Chairman and Chief Executive Dr Franz-Josef Paefgen welcomes the new addition to the Bentley range, as well as the standardisation of the FlexFuel W12 engine on all 2011 Continental models: (...)
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