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TOURBILLON “VERTALIS”
Louis Moinet est fier de présenter ce qui est déjà, selon de nombreux experts, l’un des plus beaux tourbillons de son siècle. Unique et différent, VERTALIS propose un concept esthétique novateur, en mariant technologie et habillage de façon moderne et originale. La différence se nomme verticalité : VERTALIS intensifie la magie du tourbillon en reliant sa cage au barillet à l’aide d’une barrette verticale étirée et anglée à la main. Pour ajouter au fascinant spectacle des mouvements de la cage du tourbillon, VERTALIS propose une version ajourée du barillet. Le couvercle de celui-ci effectue une rotation moyenne en 6 heures, et permet un contrôle visuel de la réserve de marche, en fonction de l’armage du ressort de barillet. Louis Moinet affiche sa volonté de relier l’esthétique à la technique, notamment à travers la barrette verticale qui met en évidence la technologie de la montre, tout en se prolongeant sur le boîtier. Cette forme originale et moderne de marier l’affichage, la technologie et l’habillage est directement inspirée du monde historique de Louis Moinet, et plus spécialement de certains de ses dessins figurant dans le Traité d’Horlogerie de 1848. Série limitée de douze pièces Réalisé en série limitée de douze pièces, le mouvement tourbillon exclusif de VERTALIS est à remontage manuel, et bat à 21,600 alternances par heure. Grande particularité technique, le mécanisme de remontage est apparent côté fond de boîte, et particulièrement spectaculaire. En effet, le ressort « pieuvre » y remplit trois fonctions, celle de ressort de tirette, de ressort de bascule et de ressort de cliquet. VERTALIS est présenté dans un nouveau boîtier d’exception, composé de 50 éléments différents. Il met en évidence le mariage des deux ors : or rose 5N très chaleureux, et or blanc qui souligne et poursuit l’effet géométrique de la barrette verticale. Le cadran présente les « Côtes du Jura » ® sur un fond noir rehaussé d’index or rose. Le boîtier est également équipé du protège-couronne Louis Moinet, qui intègre le tube de manière à pouvoir être remplacé aisément au besoin (patent pending). (...)
Brunopasso PD-1 Espresso Machine
Avec un style qui reprend le design des petites sportives italiennes des années 60, la Brunopasso PD-1, dessinée par le japonais Tadahito Ishibashi, à de quoi plaire à tout les amateurs d'automobile...et d'espresso! (...)
Girard-Perregaux, Rolls Royce, Pininfarina
En collaboration avec Pininfarina, Girard-Perregaux a associé l’excellence d’un garde-temps à une automobile hors du commun : elle a personnalisé l’une de ses montres à complication, la Vintage 1945 Tourbillon sous Pont d’Or, pour l’intégrer dans une Roll’s Royce unique : Hyperion, présentée au Pebble Beach Concours. Amovible, cette montre peut non seulement s’adapter sur le tableau de bord du véhicule, mais également orner le poignet de son propriétaire. Un système sophistiqué de vis sur ressorts permet ensuite de l’extraire de son bracelet en cuir pour la fixer sur le tableau de bord. Elle s’installe sur un support reprenant la forme de la cage du Tourbillon, qui est aussi la signature de la marque Girard-Perregaux. Son boîtier d’or blanc, aux lignes pures inspirées par un modèle datant de 1945, abrite un Tourbillon sous Pont d’Or. Elle s’adapte parfaitement à Hyperion, jusqu’aux couleurs de son cadran assorties à la carrosserie. (...)
Jaeger LeCoultre AMVOX2 DBS Transponder
Le sésame horloger de la DBS par Jaeger-LeCoultre et Aston Martin. AMVOX2 DBS Transponder, la montre chronographe qui active et désactive le système de verrouillage de la voiture DBS. Jaeger-LeCoutre et Aston Martin ont élevé leur partenariat à un niveau d’excellence jamais atteint en réalisant l’AMVOX2 DBS Transpondeur. Fruit de plusieurs années de recherches aux frontières entre l'horlogerie contemporaine et la haute technologie, l'AMVOX2 DBS Transponder, est conçue et éditée par Jaeger-LeCoultre exclusivement à l'intention des propriétaires d'une somptueuse Aston Martin DBS. En or rose 18 carats, la montre intègre un microsystème émetteur qui permet de verrouiller et déverrouiller la serrure de la voiture DBS, tout en conservant les fonctionnalités du désormais célèbre mécanisme à déclenchement vertical, le chronographe sans poussoir. Au moment d’approcher la voiture, il suffit de presser sur la position OPEN de la glace de la montre (entre 8 et 9 heures) pour activer le système d’ouverture des portières alors que le même geste sur la position CLOSE entre 3 et 4 heures procèdent à leur fermeture. La miniaturisation du module de transpondeur, logé sur le fond de la montre, sa connectique et l’antenne d’émission, métallisée dans la glace saphir, ont été complètement repensés dans une démarche horlogère, qui allie inventivité technique et intégration subtile et élégante au design. Nul doute que cette invention servira de source d'inspiration pour de nouvelles initiatives entre expertise horlogère et performance automobile. (...)
Bang & Olufsen s'associe à Mercedes-AMG
Bang & Olufsen, le célèbre fabricant danois d'équipements audio et vidéo haut de gamme, et Mercedes-AMG, la division Performances du constructeur allemand Mercedes-Benz Cars, ont conclu un accord en vue du développement d'un système audio unique. « Notre partenariat avec Mercedes-AMG est extrêmement important pour nous », déclare Karl Kristian Hvidt Nielsen, Bang & Olufsen President & CEO. « Mercedes-AMG est synonyme de hautes performances et d'exclusivité. Il en va de même pour les systèmes audio automobile de Bang & Olufsen. Ensemble, nous pourrons donc répondre aux attentes des clients de Mercedes-AMG en matière d'équipements audio », affirme Volker Mornhinweg, président du conseil d'administration de Mercedes-AMG. « Cet accord signifie que Bang & Olufsen pourra désormais mettre à profit l'expertise et les processus que nous avons développés afin de satisfaire aux exigences de l'industrie automobile », souligne Karl Kristian Hvidt Nielsen. « Bien évidemment, Mercedes-AMG constitue également un partenaire intéressant pour Bang & Olufsen, car les voitures de cette marque sont vendues dans le monde entier. » L’accord conclu avec Mercedes-AMG n'affecte pas les prévisions de Bang & Olufsen pour l’exercice financier en cours. Les systèmes sonores Bang & Olufsen embarqués ont acquis en peu de temps une réputation exceptionnelle. C’est ainsi qu’au début de cette année, le très estimé magazine allemand « auto motor und sport » a attribué à l’entreprise le premier prix de son palmarès « Best Brand 2008 » (d’après une enquête effectuée auprès de son lectorat) pour la catégorie « hi-fi automobile ». (...)
Ferrari et Panerai dévoilent leur nouvelle collection de montre au London Show
Conçues, réalisées et distribuées par Officine Panerai, voici la nouvelle collection portant le traditionnel écusson de Ferrari qui a fait ses grands débuts lors du British International Motor Show. La nouvelle gamme de montres se divise en deux collections: la Scuderia Collection et la Granturismo Collection. Dans un boîtier de 45 mm de diamètre aux lignes aérodynamiques, apposé du célèbre logo au Cheval cabré de Ferrari à 12h, le style confère un caractère très sportif. Le cadran d'une couleur noire, donnant une impression de haute technologie, est accompagné de petits détails graphiques aux couleurs Jaunes et blanches rappelant toujours les couleurs de l'écusson de la marque Italienne. La montre présente aussi un masque en Titane, entourant les compteurs de chronographes, évoquant ainsi un tableau de bord. Quatre nouveaux modèles ont été ajoutés à la collection 2008: Ferrari 10 Days GMT £8,900 (Scuderia Collection) Ferrari 8 Days Chrono Monopulsante GMT Classic £10,400 (Granturismo collection) Ferrari 1/8th Second £10,400 (Special Edition) Ferrari Chronograph £28,300 (Special Edition) Les montres seront dévoilées lors du British International Morot Show se déroulant du Mardi 22 Juillet au Dimanche 3 Août. (...)
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Reiter Engineering Murcielago R-GT
Peu connu de la plupart d'entre nous, Reiter Engineering l’est plutôt du côté des fans de GT1 et GT3. La société allemande est surtout reconnue pour préparer les voitures de sports (compétitions), mais cette fois, elle a utilisé son savoir-faire pour une Murcielago R-GT afin de nous sortir une version homologuée pour la route. Avec des modifications effectuées de part et d’autres du véhicule, comme des spoilers avant et arrière en fibre de carbone, la Murcielago R-GT embarque d’élégantes jantes OZ Racing, ainsi que des freins et suspensions améliorées. Si techniquement parlant, Reiter Engineering n'a rien fait pour améliorer la puissance du véhicule, le tuner allemand a tout de même modifié la ligne d'échappement qui se trouve désormais en hauteur. (...)
Bonne année 2009!
Chers lecteurs, 2008 est enfin terminée, et il faut avouer que nous sommes plutôt heureux que cette douleureuse année prenne fin... Comme beaucoup de personnes parmi vous, nous avons bien souffert, surtout en ce qui concerne ce monde automobile qui nous est cher, et nous espérons vraiment que cette année 2009 sera bien meilleure, notamment avec de nouvelles voitures plus excitantes les unes que les autres. Cependant, que ce soit pour NihonCar.com ou ManualGear.com, nous avons eu la chance de tester quelques voitures fort sympathiques: de la Mugen RR à la GT-R, en passant par l'Aston Martin DBS et Gallardo LP560-4 Et due à une forte demande de votre part, nous avons decidé d'ouvrir un petit store en ligne où vous pouvez commander quelques unes de nos photos et vous les faire imprimer en grand format afin de pouvoir décorer votre chambre. Ces images sont disponibles en différentes tailles: de la carte postale au poster 24x36'' (60 x 90cm), avec différentes options. Voici le lien vous permettant d'accéder à notre gallerie photos: http://Manualgear.smugmug.com Et nous oublions le plus importants: Nous vous souhaitons nos meilleurs voeux pour l'année 2009, une excellente santé, et que celle ci soit riche en nouvelle voiture! Merci encore à vous tous! HIC Publication (...)
Nouvelle Quattroporte Sport GT S fera ses débuts au NAIAS 2009
La nouvelle Maserati Quattroporte Sport GT S va certainement redéfinir le marché des berlines sportives de luxes. Conçu et développée comme un "véritable engin de luxe et de confort de conduite", la Quattroporte Sport GT S est l'expression ultime du terme « sportivité ». Les changements techniques apportés à cette GTS concernent 4 parties majeures : - Le moteur V8 de 4.7-Litres avec une puissance augmentée à 323kW ; - Le système de gestion des rapports de vitesses. - Les suspensions avant et arrières, plus rigides et plus basses. - Les échappements sports. Vous trouverez de plus amples informations dans le communiqué de presse ci dessous: The new Maserati Quattroporte Sport GT S sets yet another milestone in terms of sportiness in the high performance luxury sedan segment of the automotive market . Conceived and developed as "a real driving machine in the guise of a luxury sedan ", the Quattroporte Sport GT S is the ultimate expression of Maserati's sportiness in the Quattroporte range. The technical changes to the new Quattroporte Sport GT S in respect to the Quattroporte S concern four areas: - the mapping of the V8 4.7 litre engine, with power increased to 323kW; - the gearshift management software, with new features designed to increase driving enjoyment; - the front and rear suspension system featuring single-rate dampers, stiffer springs and lower ride height; - the sports exhaust controlled by pneumatic valves for a deep, throaty and captivating sound. The sportier and more aggressive look is evident also in virtue of the interior's and exterior's stylistic choices: - the new black grille with concave vertical fins featuring the Trident logo with red accents, typical of the sportier versions of Maserati models; - the new headlights, in metallic titanium finish; - the side and rear "shadow line", which includes black finishing around the doors, body-colored door handles and black twin oval exhaust pipes, - the new M-design seats with perforated Alcantara® and leather upholstery; - the standard trim in Titantex, a "titanium colored" composite material. (...)
Quand Edo Competition fait appel à Christian Audigier…
En collaboration avec Christian Audigier, un designer de renommé internationale, Edo Competition nous lâche sa dernière création qu’est la LP 710. Disponible en version très limitée, à savoir 5 unités (amplement suffisant ?), ce nouveau monstre, basé sur une Lamborghini Murciélago LP 640, gagne notamment 70ch, et profite de quelques modifications aérodynamiques ainsi qu’esthétiques. D’ailleurs, les cinq futurs (chanceux ou pas…) propriétaires auront droit à leur propre design, histoire de posséder une voiture unique. Niveau performance, nous aurons une voiture agressive offrant une vitesse de pointe de 360km/h (224mph), avec un chrono de 0 à 100km/h en 3,2secondes… Voici le communiqué de presse officiel: In cooperation with internationally acclaimed designer Christian Audigier, edo competition has pulled out all the stops to create the fastest Lamborghini ever made. The limited edition edo LP 710, of which only five will be produced, is a vehicle engineered to the highest standards, combined with Christian Audigier’s unusual themes and unparalleled sense of color. For those wishing to follow in the footsteps of international celebrities, there’s no way around Christian Audigier. With his luxury clothing label he is setting new standards in the fashion world, exemplified by the sparkling skull and pirate themes adorning his designer pieces. However, Christian Audigier’s creativity is not limited to fashion; it also translates to the world of automotive design, as evidenced by this latest cooperative effort. Thanks to his inexhaustible imaginativeness, the matte black outer skin of the edo LP 710 has been completely restyled. However, it doesn’t end there! The redesigned interior is an impressive sight as well. Carrying the creative theme inside, the seats, door panels and center console have been upgraded using his exquisite designs. Carrying out the elaborate airbrush work to bring Christian Audigier’s ideas to life is none other than Marcus Pfeil, of Pfeildesign in Austria. It’s only fitting that the work being carried out on these unique vehicles is done exclusively by an artist with a worldwide reputation in the custom painting scene. All five Haute-Couture Lamborghinis are custom made for each customer. The themes typical of Audigier's design underline the edo LP 710’s proud pedigree. Every wish of the client can be accommodated during production. Customers have the opportunity to personalize their vehicles by choosing from a wide range of themes, lending an individual touch to Christian Audigier’s work. Thus it is ensured that prospective owners do not just get the world’s fastest Lamborghini, but also a completely unique design. In addition, each vehicle will be personally signed by the US-based star designer! The base car, a Lamborghini Murciélago LP 640, is completely disassembled. The modifications to the engine, aerodynamics, wheels, tires, exhaust system and interior are made to measure at edo competition within a three month time frame. Along with the purchase of the vehicle, the customer gets the opportunity to drive his Lamborghini LP 710 at the limit, either at the high speed oval in Papenburg, Germany or at Nardo, Italy. Upon request, our test driver and pro racer Patrick Simon will coach the proud owner at the race track. Undoubtedly a memorable experience at speeds of over 360 km/h (224 mph)! (...)
McLaren SLR Stirling Moss, Un rêve qui devient réalité?
Nos collègues d’Autoblog.com nous ont trouvé une petite information très intéressante concernant la dernière petite merveille de Mercedes-Benz, la McLaren SLR Stirling Moss. Notre nouvelle Mercedes devrait être officiellement présentée lors du prochain NAIA (Salon automobile de Détroit), et sera apparemment disponible en un nombre très limité, à savoir 75 unités. La McLaren SLR Stirling Moss embarque sous le capot, un juteux moteur V8 5.5-Litres (650hp), ce qui lui permet de réaliser un joli 0 à 100 km / h en 3.5sec, le tout avec une vitesse maximale de 350 km / h. Il nous faudra cependant attendre le prochain Salon de NAIA pour obtenir plus d’information concernant ce nouveau monstre. Mercedes-Benz and McLaren are adding the crowning glory to the model family of their highly successful SLR super sports car with a new, uncompromisingly spectacular car. There is neither a roof nor a windscreen to separate the driver and passenger from the outside world; they enjoy unadulterated high-speed excitement with all the attributes of a speedster. The new SLR Stirling Moss is also characterised by the most sophisticated technology and a breathtaking design which reinterprets the SLR legend. With 478 kW/650 hp the SLR Stirling Moss accelerates its V8 supercharged engine from standstill to 100 km/h in less than 3.5 seconds, and has a top speed of 350 km/h - no other series-production car is at the same time so open and so fast. This extreme concept makes the new high-performance sports car a legitimate bearer of the name of the British motor racing legend and Mille Miglia record-holder Stirling Moss, who drove the legendary Mercedes-Benz SLR racing cars from victory to victory in 1955. The exclusive SLR Stirling Moss rounds off the current SLR family and is limited to 75 units. It is priced at 750,000 euros. The SLR Roadster will cease to be manufactured at the end of May 2009 as planned, and production of the SLR Stirling Moss will commence in June 2009. Three letters are all it takes to make car fans’ hearts beat faster: SLR. In the 1950s the Mercedes-Benz SLR 300 celebrated victory after victory. It won the Mille Miglia, the Eifel race, the Targa Florio as well as the Tourist Trophy. It was driven by the stars of the time: Juan Manuel Fangio and Karl Kling - and, first and foremost, by the British racing driver Stirling Moss. At ten hours, seven minutes and 48 seconds he still holds the Mille Miglia record. This is why the modern-day version of the legendary SLR carries the additional words “Stirling Moss” in its name. As the new SLR Stirling Moss unites the character of the current SLR models with the fascination of the SLR of 1955. The core values of both the historical and the present-day SLR models include an exciting new design, innovative technology, high-class materials displaying perfect craftsmanship, and, above all: a unique driving experience for all the senses. Highly puristic concept without a roof or a windscreen Remaining totally true to the specifications of the 300 SLR, the new Silver Arrow’s equipment is extremely sophisticated and yet at the same time decidedly puristic, doing without both a roof and side windows. There are just two wind deflectors a couple of centimetres in height to protect the driver and passenger from the airflow. Two air scoops integrated into the bodywork serve as roll-over bars. With this extreme concept the new SLR Stirling Moss is visually very different from all the other vehicles which belong to the elite sports car class. Just like the legendary racing vehicles of yesteryear, the SLRStirling Moss dazzles with its superlative performance. Accelerating from zero to 100 km/h in less than 3.5 seconds and with a top speed of 350 km/h this puristic high-performance sports car denotes completely new dimensions in open-top driving. And not just because of the impressive performance figures; every time drivers take to the wheel of the SLR Stirling Moss their senses are addressed with a previously unheard of intensity, conveying a driving experience in its purest and most sensual form. This automotive thoroughbred thus facilitates the kind of open-air feeling that is utterly unique for a road-going vehicle. Exciting design reminiscent of the SLR racing cars The SLR Stirling Moss, its entire bodywork made of lightweight carbon fibre, represents a stand-alone design concept. Whilst the Mercedes-Benz designers were working on the body of the new SLRStirling Moss, they were fully aware every single moment that they were creating a vehicle with a top speed of 350 km/h. At the same time this supreme athlete is highly reminiscent of the SLRracing cars from the 1950s, whose design idiom still never fails to impress to this day. The SLR Stirling Moss sports an exciting, pronounced arrow-shaped form and is characterised by an elongated bonnet and a compact, muscular rear. As there is no windscreen, the exterior and interior flow smoothly into one. The bonnet also stretches from its striking tip right down into the interior, giving the vehicle body a distinctly sleek air. Even when standing still, the sports car radiates such dynamism that the observer immediately falls under its spell. Further eye-catching features include two air scoops behind the driver and passenger. They carry additional roll-over bars, also uniting the traditional and the modern. The wings are powerfully contoured. Black-painted ventilation “gills” sitting facet-like on the sides and on the bonnet also cite the legend. A thrilling interplay of light and shadow ensues through the expressive lines, underlining the dynamic overall impression. Exactly as they were on the shining historical example, the side skirts on the new SLR Stirling Moss are also very high. This prompted the designers’ decision in favour of folding swing-wing doors which open forwards. The vehicle can be closed by two tonneau covers which are carried in the boot. When both tonneau covers and the doors are closed the SLR Stirling Moss resembles a sculpture. In keeping with the puristic exterior of the vehicle, the interior is also reduced to the bare essentials. Surfaces penetrating each other in the instrument panel and doors make for an exciting atmosphere and resonate perfectionism. A mixture of high-class authentic materials such as carbon fibre, aluminium and fine-quality leather sets the style here. An aluminium plate carries the engraved signature of Stirling Moss and covers the area around the shift lever. Innovative technology and polished aerodynamic concept Developers working on the Stirling Moss were able to fall back on a wealth of experience gathered when producing the SLR Coupé and Roadster, in particular where the technical base was concerned, with its extravagant carbon-fibre design, high-performance suspension and throaty V8 engine. The common denominator uniting the Stirling Moss with the other members of the SLR family is the aerodynamic concept with a closed underbody and a diffuser in the rear bumper for maximum possible downforce at the rear axle - with one difference: the diffuser here is considerably larger than that on the coupé and roadster. Thanks to the high-precision work carried out in the wind tunnel, the SLR Stirling Moss always generates sufficient downforce for extremely safe handling. But the driver can also manually operate the Airbrake in order to increase the contact pressure further, during particularly sporty driving, for example. The Airbrake is also raised during powerful braking at speeds above 120 km/h, so as to stabilise the vehicle even more in such situations, thus facilitating maximum possible deceleration. Limited to 75 units - the SLR models’ crowning glory The new SLR Stirling Moss is the kind of high-calibre speedster coveted by the enthusiasts alike. At the same time it marks the pinnacle of an era and, for the foreseeable future, at least, the final curtain for the SLR. In May 2009 production of the SLR models will cease; only a total of 75 units of the Stirling Moss will be manufactured between June and December 2009, bearing chassis numbers from 1 to 75. Not only does this exclusive vehicle represent the conclusion of the current SLR family; it also serves as a very special thank you to the most loyal of SLR customers, for they are the only ones able to acquire a Stirling Moss. (...)
Zenvo ST1, un impressionnant concept Danois de 1104hp
Cela fait quelques temps maintenant que nous n’avons plus été « bluffés » par un Concept de Supercar. Eh bien en voici un qui nous vient tout droit d’un petit studio perdu en plein milieu de l’Europe. Zenvo Automotive : Derrière ce joli nom encore très peu connu, se cache en fait une petite société Danoise très talentueuse et qui a donné naissance à la ST1, un mélange vraiment surprenant d’art et de technologie automobile. Affichant des lignes plutôt agressives et angulaires, la ST1 embarque sous son capot, un étonnant moteur 7.0-Litres V8 Turbocharged et Supercharged développant un incroyable 1104hp. Non seulement ces caractéristiques sont impressionnantes, mais Zenvo Automotive affirme également que son monstre réalise le 0 à 100 km/h en 3.2 secondes seulement avec une vitesse limitée électroniquement à 375 km / h. (...)
La nouvelle BMW Z4 va faire ses débuts sur le sol Américain lors du NAIAS 2009
« Plus de puissance, plus efficace, et plus de confort », voilà ce que pourrait être le nouveau leitmotiv de BMW pour ses nouvelles Z4. Globalement, cette nouvelle version reprend les bases de la précédente génération, mais avec un design plus puissant, plus agressif, plus dynamique. On obtient au final, une très belle voiture, voire luxueuse. La nouveauté qui nous saute aux yeux concerne ce toit rétractable en dur. La capote est mise aux oubliettes, pour nous offrir cette fois un toit en aluminium et qui saura faire disparaître les 3 parties qui le composes en une vingtaine se secondes. Sous le capot, nous aurons le choix entre trois différents moteurs essences : - Le Z4 sDrive 23i : développe 204hp pour un couple de 250Nm. Niveau performances, il est annoncé un 0 à 100km/h en 6.6 secondes (Boîte manuelle) et 7.3 secondes (Boîte automatique) -Le Z4 sDrive 30i : Moteur 3-Litres développant 258Hp pour un couple de 310Nm. Il vous faudra environ 5.8 secondes en boîte manuelle pour réaliser le 0 à 100km/h et 6.1 secondes en boîte automatique. - Le Z4 sDrive 35i : Modèle haut de gamme, équipé d’un moteur 3-Litres biturbo à injection directe, développe une puissance de 306hp pour 400Nm. Nous avons droit, ici, à un chrono de 5.2 secondes pour le 0 à 100km/h. BMW a limité cette version à 250 km/h et propose une version équipé d’une boîte à double embrayage sept rapports. Vous trouverez plus d’informations dans le communiqué de presse ci-dessous : Woodcliff Lake, NJ – December 13, 6:00PM EST 2008... Poised to lead its market segment once again, the 2009 BMW Z4 Roadster will make its North American debuts at the 2009 North American International Auto Show on January 11. Return of a Classic The classic roadster is back – more powerful and more stylish than ever before. It is the BMW Z4, the only car in its segment combining classic roadster proportions with a seating position moved close to the rear axle, rear-wheel drive, with a retractable hardtop. The new BMW Z4 offers all the driving pleasure of a BMW Roadster with particularly refined and stylish flair. Driving with the roof down, this two-seater offers a refreshingly intense experience of the sunshine and the wind rushing by – and driving with the hardtop closed it provides all the comfort of a sporting coupe in the premium segment. So through this diversity and wide range of qualities, the new BMW Z4 is the re-birth of the roadster. The design of the new Z4 comes out through classic details interpreted in new, up-to-date style. This outstanding two-seater offers a unique combination of elegance, agility, and supreme comfort. The aluminum shells of the two-piece lightweight hardtop come to rest in the roof compartment, saving maximum space in the process. Even with the roof closed, the new Z4 retains the proportions typical of a genuine roadster. To ensure driving pleasure, the new BMW Z4 is offered with two inline-6 engine displacing 3.0 liters: 300 hp in the BMW Z4 sDrive35i and 255 hp in the BMW Z4 sDrive30i ensure truly outstanding acceleration and response at all times. Comprehensive use of BMW’s EfficientDynamics technologies serves to provide an unparalleled balance of driving pleasure and fuel efficiency. While both models are available with a manual six-speed gearbox, the Z4 sDrive35i is available also with a dual-clutch sport automatic transmission featuring seven gears. The six-speed sport automatic is available on the Z4 sDrive30i. Both sport automatic transmissions feature steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters. Featuring Dynamic Drive Control as standard, the BMW Z4 enables the driver to choose between three drivetrain and suspension settings at the touch of a button. Design: the modern look of a classic roadster. The new BMW Z4 takes on the classic look of the roadster in modern, flowing lines. The car’s proportions are borne out by the long and low-slung engine compartment lid, short overhangs, the long wheelbase and large wheels as well as the low seating position near the rear axle. The front view features a large, upright BMW kidney grille, wide air intake and the dual round headlights, typical of the BMW brand. All surfaces and lines, including the character lines on the hood, strive towards an imaginary target point on the road ahead. The side view is dominated by the dynamic flow of the car’s shoulder line connecting the front and rear wheel arches and accentuating the stretched, athletic look of the Roadster. The horizontal orientation of the car’s lines and surfaces at the rear, in turn, emphasizes the sheer width of the new BMW Z4. Further characteristics are the extra-large hood extending far over the wheel arches, the black A-pillars, the gills at the side with their integrated LED direction indicators, as well as the slender rear fixtures with three-dimensional LED-fed rows of light. Stylish, sophisticated, and typical of a genuine roadster: the interior. For harmonious unison of the exterior and interior so important in an open-air car, the shoulder line is reflected by the door panels with their unique configuration and flow from front to rear. The contoured surface to the left and right of the steering wheel incorporates the controls for the lights and air conditioning. These elements are available trimmed in Satin Silver matte, Brushed Aluminum, and Ash Grain Wood, the respective color and trim variant also being used on the center console and door handle. The standard seats with integrated headrests on the BMW Z4 sDrive35i feature high-quality Kansas leather in a choice of three colors. A fourth choice, Ivory White Nappa leather, is also available as part of the Exclusive Ivory White Leather Package, which includes sport seats and Anthracite wood trim. An Extended Leather option (Z4 sDrive35i only) adds leather on the upper section of the instrument panel, the doorsills, the sun visors in Black leather as well as the leather-finish door closing handles in upholstery color on the passenger’s side. The entire range of paintwork colors available on the new BMW Z4 is made up of no less than nine color tones including Orion Silver metallic exclusive to the new Roadster. Cycling in 20 seconds: the retractable hardtop. The new BMW Z4 is the first BMW roadster to protect its occupants from wind and weather with a fully retractable hardtop. This two-piece lightweight aluminum shell opens and closes at the touch of a button within 20 seconds. The compact packaging of the folding roof enables the Z4 Roadster to retain the characteristic, slender proportions of its predecessor. This innovative roof system offers outstanding acoustic and aerodynamic qualities and sets a new standard in the Z4’s segment. Large windows and the high-quality roof lining give the hardtop a light look. Driver and passenger enjoy a bright ambience, generous space, and optimum visibility. Compared with the former model, the side windows are 40% larger, the see-through area in the rear window 52% larger, and all-round visibility increased14% over the previous generation. The glass rear window in the hardtop is equipped with an electric defroster and the four side windows of the new BMW Z4 may be lowered individually. The higher roofline and larger door openings allow easier and more convenient access with the roof closed. The retractable roof may be operated either by a switch in the center console or by remote control key fob when equipped with optional Comfort Access. Comfort Access also allows convenient loading and unloading of the luggage compartment with the roof open. To provide access to the luggage compartment in this case, the open hardtop is moved to an interim position facilitating the removal of large objects. Flexible storage with optional through-loading. The roof compartment and the luggage compartment are separated from one another by a moveable partition, which may be folded up to increase luggage space if the roof will remain closed. The moveable partition in the new BMW Z4 is unique in the premium roadster segment, and offers enough luggage space with the hardtop open for a medium-sized hard-shell suitcase. Using the optional through-loading system to the passenger compartment, the Z4 is able to accommodate a 46-inch full-size golf bag. When the roof is closed the luggage compartment easily accommodates up to four crates of large bottles or – when using the through-loading system – two 46-inch golf bags. Various other storage compartments are designed into the interior. The new Z4 offers storage trays in the center console, a 10-liter glove box, hinged compartments in the doors, and additional space behind the seats. Included with the Cold Weather Package is a storage package that provides an even wider range of storage and loading functions, with fastening nets on the rear panels of the seats and in the passenger’s footwell, lashing belts in the luggage compartment, as well as a storage box in the bulkhead leading to the luggage compartment. Optional through-loading system together with a transport bag ensures even greater versatility, allowing the user to load slender items such as golf bags or two pairs of skis measuring up to 67" in length. A successful concept with a great tradition: inline-6 engines in the BMW Roadster. Elegant roadster lines, the BMW kidney grille, and a inline-6 engine form a combination that, in 1934, made the BMW 315/1 an unprecedented success both on the road and in motorsport. That combination has been retained to this day in the BMW Z4. The new Z4 is therefore being launched exclusively with inline-6 engines, a choice of two engines providing both power and performance. These unique engines exhibit refinement and fast-revving response typical of a BMW six-cylinder, offering an unparalleled balance of performance and fuel efficiency in the premium roadster segment thanks to the BMW EfficientDynamics engineering strategy. The individual versions of the new BMW Z4 come with on-demand management and control of the car’s accessory drives, a variable oil pump, intelligent lightweight technology, and optimized aerodynamics. BMW Z4 sDrive35i: performance with efficiency thanks to Twin Turbo and High Precision Injection. The most dynamic version of the new Z4 comes with the world’s first inline-6 engine to feature twin turbochargers, High Precision Injection, and an all-aluminum crankcase. The use of two turbochargers (each supplying three cylinders) ensures responsiveness never seen before on a turbocharged engine. The engine achieves peak torque of 300 lb-ft without the slightest delay, and maintains this high level of torque throughout a broad rev range from 1,400–5,000 rpm. Maximum output of 300 hp comes at 5,800 rpm, and the BMW Z4 sDrive35i accelerates to 60 mph in just 5.1 seconds (optional seven-speed double clutch sport automatic transmission in 5.0 seconds). The acceleration continues all the way to an electronically-limited 130 mph (150 mph when equipped with the optional Sport Package). High Precision Injection is a key element in the Z4’s efficient performance. Injecting fuel directly into the combustion chamber offers a cooling effect allowing a higher compression ratio and optimized combustion efficiency. This second generation of direct gasoline injection developed by BMW ensures significant benefits in fuel efficiency without restricting the dynamic qualities of the engine. The 6-cylinder normally aspirated engine: powerful and light thanks to magnesium. Offering spontaneous power and performance, excellent motoring refinement and outstanding efficiency, the 6-cylinder naturally-aspirated engine in the BMW Z4 sDrive30i again offers the very best in its segment. Weighing just 355 lb thanks to its composite magnesium/aluminum crankcase, cylinder head cover made of a special synthetic material and lightweight camshafts with aluminum VANOS control unit, is exceptionally light. While BMW’s VALVETRONIC engine management controls valve stroke on the intake valves, double-VANOS varies the angle of the intake and outlet valves in an infinite process. This allows particularly efficient use of fuel, providing a “beefy” torque curve and giving the engine instant response. The engine in the BMW Z4 sDrive30i develops maximum output of 255 hp from 3.0 liters capacity at an engine speed of 6,600 rpm. Maximum torque of 220 lb-ft, in turn, comes at just 2,600 rpm. With this kind of power, the BMW Z4 sDrive30i accelerates from a standstill to 60 mph in 5.6 seconds (with optional sport automatic in 6.0 seconds). Top speed is electronically limited to 130 mph (150 mph when equipped with the optional Sport Package). 6-speed transmission with short gearshift travel featured as standard. All variants of the new BMW Z4 come as standard with a 6-speed manual gearbox. Developed specifically for BMW’s new Roadster, the various transmission options are particularly sporting in their character. Indeed, this is borne out in particular by extremely short gearshift travel much shorter than on all other current BMW models with a manual gearshift. Optional: 7-speed sport automatic with double clutch and 6-speed sport automatic with paddle shifters. As an option, the BMW Z4 sDrive35i is available with BMW’s newly developed double-clutch sport automatic gearbox. Based on the M DCT transmission introduced in the BMW M3, this 7-speed gearbox ensures faster acceleration and extra performance in comparison with the 6-speed manual gearbox, while providing the comfort features of a BMW automatic transmission. The 7-speed double-clutch sport automatic shifts gears without the slightest interruption of power. The BMW Z4 sDrive35i with its seven-speed sport automatic accelerates to 60mph in just 5.0 seconds, while fuel consumption is expected to outperform the fuel economy on the same model with a manual gearbox. Sport automatic gives the driver the choice of either automatic (Program D) or manual gear selection. If desired, the driver may shift gears manually by means of paddles on the steering wheel. The 6-speed sport automatic transmission available on the BMW Z4 sDrive30i promotes not only driving comfort, but also the sporty performance of a BMW Roadster. Indeed, the characteristics of the car are attributable to the direct connection linking the transmission to the engine, based on modern torque converter technology with an integrated torsion damper, avoiding unnecessary slip and therefore helping to eliminate any loss of power and performance. Even the slightest movement of the gas pedal, therefore, is converted spontaneously into a quick response with gearshift times reduced to a minimum. The sport automatic transmission offers the driver the opportunity to shift gears manually when desired. Apart from selecting gears via the selector lever on the center console, the driver also has the option to use the gearshift paddles on the steering wheel. Sophisticated suspension technology, high-performance lightweight brakes. Rear-wheel drive, near perfect weight distribution, the long wheelbase and the low center of gravity on the roadster create ideal conditions for supreme agility. Featuring traditional spring-struts, a “double-jointed” front suspension made largely of aluminum, and a constant-geometry rear axle, the new Z4 comes with proven suspension concepts in a configuration perfectly tailored to the characteristics of the car. Electric power steering plays a role also in the BMW Z4, enhancing the precision and comfort of steering maneuvers and reducing fuel consumption, since the electric motor for steering power assistance is activated only when required or desired by the driver. The new Z4 comes with new high-performance brakes, featuring low weight and low brake pad wear. At the same time the BMW Z4 is the first car in its segment to feature an electrical parking brake activated and released by a button on the center console. Both versions of the new BMW Z4 come as standard on 17-inch light-alloy rims and with runflat tires as well as a Tire Pressure Monitor. BMW’s standard Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) serves not only to activate the ABS brakes and ensure stability on slippery surfaces by activating the brakes or reducing engine power, but also comprises other functions such as Brake Drying and Brake Standby as well as a Start-Off Assistant. Acting in a similar way to a mechanical limited slip differential, DSC electronic rear brake management is used to simulate a limited slip differential for stronger acceleration in turns. Activating Dynamic Traction Control at the touch of a button, the driver is able to raise the response thresholds for intervention by the DSC, thus enjoying the option, for example, to set off on loose snow with the drive wheels slightly spinning. And when desired, the driver is also able to deactivate DSC altogether (ABS remains active). Adaptive M Suspension featuring Electronic Damping Control (EDC). The agility of the BMW Roadster may be further enhanced by ordering the optional Sport Package featuring Adaptive M Suspension with Electronic Damping Control. A central control unit varies the “compression” and “rebound” stages on the four twin-sleeve gas pressure dampers to provide optimum response at all times. The response time is so fast that a signal coming from a front wheel crossing a hole in the road reaches and re-adjusts the rear dampers even before the rear wheels reach the same uneven road surface. Comfort and sportiness in one: Dynamic Drive Control. Dynamic Drive Control allows the driver of the new Z4 to choose the drive characteristics of the car. In addition to changing damper forces on the Adaptive M Suspension, DDC also conditions the responses of the gas pedal, the power steering, and the response thresholds of Dynamic Stability Control. And if the car is fitted with either sport automatic transmission, the adaptive gearshift logarithms are adjusted. The driver operates Dynamic Drive Control via a button on the center console next to the gear selector. By pressing the button, s/he is able to choose from the NORMAL, SPORT and SPORT+ modes, thus activating a pre-configured, perfectly balanced set-up. The SPORT mode, for example, offers more-direct steering behavior and a more-direct response to the gas pedal. The SPORT+ mode, in turn, serves additionally to activate the Dynamic Traction Control mode of DSC, intentionally allowing slight wheelspin and thus enabling the driver to take a bend in a controlled drift. Extra space, more safety. The new BMW Z4 is slightly larger outside than its predecessor, at the same time offering significantly more comfort in terms of space and a lot more loading space: BMW’s new Roadster is 5.8” longer, 0.4” wider, and 0.3” lower. Wheelbase has grown 0.1” to measure 98.3". Apart from all-round visibility, the interior offers greater headroom (+0.20"), extra shoulder room (+0.79") and more elbow freedom (+1.69"). The door opening, increased in size by 1.02", allows even more convenient access with the roof closed. The extremely stiff bodyshell, lightweight construction and near 50/50 weight distribution enhance both the safety and agility of the new BMW Z4. High load-resistant subframes, optimum use of crush zones, the extremely stiff passenger cell and highly efficient restraint systems ensure outstanding accident safety. Frontal and head/thorax airbags, belt latch tensioners and belt force limiters are activated by the sensor-controlled electronic safety system as a function of the type and severity of a collision. The head/thorax airbags are integrated on the outside of the seat backrests and inflate over a large surface in the event of a collision from the side. Making its premiere in the BMW Roadster: the latest generation of iDrive. The new Z4 is the first BMW Roadster to feature the iDrive control system as part of its optional navigation system. In the new Z4 the iDrive serves to activate all entertainment, information, navigation and telecommunication functions. The system itself is made up of a Controller on the center console and a folding, high-resolution Control Display on the instrument panel, allowing the driver to intuitively and safely mastermind all available functions. Pressing the direct selection buttons on the newly configured Controller, the user is able to spontaneously change to the CD, radio, telephone and navigation functions. The range of direct selection buttons has now been rounded off by the three MENU, BACK and OPTION command buttons, and programmable favorite buttons in the instrument panel allow the user to save and directly select radio stations, telephone numbers and navigation destinations, and other menu items available directly through iDrive. Measuring 8.8 inches in size, the high-resolution Control Display with its resolution of 1,280 x 480 pixels offers excellent clarity in presenting graphics or pages from the internet. A picture of the Controller shown in the Control Display gives the driver greater and clearer orientation in choosing the next step in the operating process. Using the navigation system is even easier thanks to iDrive. Full-screen map presentation, for example, offers an incomparably detailed overview of the region in which the driver is currently traveling. As an alternative the Control Display also offers an assistance window presenting further highlights and maps independent of the main map. With navigation data saved on an 80 GB hard disc installed in the car, access times are faster than before. And at the same time the hard disc may also be used as a 15 GB music archive. Roadster-specific climate comfort and leather with Sun Reflective Technology. The new BMW Z4 is equipped as standard with air conditioning and seven blower stages. Optional automatic climate control allows separate temperature selection on the driver’s and passenger’s side, individual, automatic temperature control in five stages of intensity, and manual adjustment of air stratification. With the roof open, automatic climate control includes convertible mode. Like BMW’s Convertibles, the leather in the new Roadster incorporates Sun Reflective Technology. A special, highly innovative type of leather on the seats, interior panels, and steering wheel that significantly reduces the heat effect of bright sunshine: Treatment of the leather in Sun Reflective Technology serves to integrate special color pigments into the material to reflect infrared radiation in the sunlight. Top-end audio and communication systems. The audio systems available in the new BMW Z4 set standards in the segment in every respect. The CD player fitted as regular series equipment also serves to play music files in the MP3 format. The available premium hi-fi system comes with up to 14 loudspeakers and two additional subwoofers for an intense and precise experience in sound, with amplifier output of up to 650 watts. A standard AUX-In port is provided, allowing the integration of various external MP3 player. A 6-disc CD/DVD changer in the glove compartment is also available. A Bluetooth interface is available in conjunction with optional BMW Assist to offer greater safety and convenience for making telephone calls while driving. To fully integrate the latest smartphones in the car, the new BMW Z4 is also available with a smart phone integration option. New production plant: BMW Roadster coming from Regensburg. The new BMW Z4 is built at BMW Plant Regensburg alongside the 3 Series and the BMW 1 Series. This is because BMW Plant Spartanburg, where the former model was built, is concentrating from now on entirely on the production of BMW’s X models. BMW Ultimate ServiceTM: Providing owners with incredible value and peace of mind The 2009 BMW Z4 Roadster will feature BMW Ultimate ServiceTM, a suite of services that includes the BMW Maintenance Program (formerly called Full Maintenance), Roadside Assistance and the New Vehicle Limited Warranty. BMW AssistTM with TeleService is part of the optional Premium Package or can be ordered separately as a stand-alone option. BMW Ultimate ServiceTM includes: The BMW Maintenance Program is the only no-cost maintenance program in the industry that covers wear and tear items like brake pads and rotors for four years or 50,000 miles, whichever comes first. BMW owners pay nothing for all scheduled inspections, oil changes, brake pads, wiper blade inserts and other wear-and-tear items. BMW Roadside Assistance is one of the industry’s most comprehensive plans available. Not only is it no-charge for the first four years, but there is no mileage limit. BMW drivers enjoy the assurance of on-the-road help 24 hours a day, seven days a week, anywhere in the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico. This includes everything from flat tire changes, emergency gasoline and lock-out assistance, to towing, alternative transportation and even trip-interruption benefits. This service also includes valuable trip routing advice. BMW New Vehicle Limited Warranty: All 2009 BMW passenger vehicles are covered by BMW’s excellent Limited Warranty, which includes: • New-vehicle warranty – four-year/50,000-mile coverage of the vehicle. • Rust-perforation warranty – 12-year/unlimited-mileage coverage. BMW AssistTM provides the driver with services that enhance on-the-road security and convenience, for added peace of mind. The BMW Assist and Bluetooth® System is included in the Premium Package or available as a stand-alone option. BMW includes the Safety Plan for 4 years at no additional cost. BMW is the only manufacturer that offers this duration of service as other manufacturers only include the first year of service. The BMW Assist Safety Plan is a subscription based service that is subject to certain limitations. The in-vehicle equipment for BMW Assist includes GPS technology and hands-free communication functions to deliver emergency and other services, accessed via buttons in the overhead or center console. The BMW Assist system transmits the location and vehicle information to the BMW Assist Response Center. A response specialist speaks with the vehicle occupants to coordinate dispatch, notify emergency contacts on file, and link BMW Roadside Assistance or emergency services as needed and/or requested. A severe accident automatically activates the Automatic Collision Notification function. The BMW Assist Safety Plan also includes Door Unlock and Stolen Vehicle Recovery services, which can save the owner time and money. New to BMW Assist is MyInfo, which allows users to send business listings and street addresses with associated phone numbers from the internet, directly to their BMW. TeleService automatically notifies the BMW center when a vehicle will need service. A service advisor then proactively calls the customer to set up a convenient appointment and have the needed parts ready. BMW Assist subscribers can also enroll in the BMW Assist Convenience Plan (available at an additional cost of $199 per year) to avail themselves of many BMW Assist concierge services, from finding the lowest fuel price or the best French restaurant in the area to information on flight arrival gates or times, as well as receive directions, and traffic and weather information. On 2007 and later models, a selected destination and its phone number can be sent directly to the BMW Navigation system (if so equipped) and the customer’s Bluetooth linked mobile phone, after a push of the Concierge menu option. New for 2009 is BMW Search, which allows those vehicles equipped with both the BMW Navigation and BMW Assist system to gain online access to the Google Maps database inside the vehicle to quickly find a desired business with just a key word. The Convenience Plan also includes Critical Calling, a service that can connect the driver to a requested party via a response specialist in case their mobile phone is not in the vehicle or its battery is discharged. Lastly, the BMW Assist system includes Bluetooth hands-free phone connectivity with phonebook access and speech recognition for dialing by name or number via the steering wheel controls. Use of this feature requires a customer-provided compatible Bluetooth mobile phone. To learn more about BMW Assist, please visit www.bmwassist.com. Performance with a conscience: BMW strives to produce its motor vehicles and other products with the utmost attention to environmental compatibility and protection. Integrated into the design and development of BMW automobiles are such criteria as resource efficiency and emission control in production; environmentally responsible selection of materials; recyclability during production and within the vehicle; elimination of CFCs and hazardous materials in production; and continuing research into environmentally friendly automotive power sources. Tangible results of these efforts include the recycling of bumper cladding into other vehicle components; water-based paint color coats and powder clear coats; near-future availability of hydrogen-powered models; and various design and engineering elements that help make BMWs easier to dismantle at the end of their service life. (...)
The Audi R8 5.2 FSI quattro: des performances à couper le souffle
Dévoilée lors du salon de l’Auto de Détroit, la nouvelle Audi R8 V10 est enfin un rêve devenu réalité! Alors que certains se plaignaient de la R8 et de son V8 un peu trop timide, ce nouveau moteur V10 5.2-Litres, une version route de la R8 LMS, devrait probablement en surprendre plus d’un. Légèrement moins puissante que sa sœur aînée, la LP560-4 Gallardo, notre R8 V10 et ses 525hp devrait atteindre une vitesse maximale de 316 km/h et a simplement besoin de 3.9s pour réaliser le 0 à 100 km/h. Et n'hésitez pas à consulter notre Test Drive de la R8 V8, ici, juste après le clic Voici le communiqué de presse Officiel: The Audi R8 5.2 FSI quattro: breathtaking performance * The new 5.2-liter, ten-cylinder engine puts out 525 hp * Sprint to 100 km/h in 3.9 seconds, top speed 316 km/h * High-performance sports car with striking design Ingolstadt – Audi is launching the next variant of its top-of-the-line model. With the R8, the brand has established itself at the forefront of high-end sports cars from the very start – and now comes the R8 V10. Its 5.2-liter, ten-cylinder engine churns out 386 kW (525 hp) and 530 Nm (390.91 lb-ft) of torque, which makes for breathtaking performance. With superior Audi technologies such as quattro all-wheel drive, the lightweight aluminum body, the innovative all-LED headlights, and its striking design, the R8 V10 takes pole position against the competition. The R8 V10 is the result of cumulative know-how from Audi's string of Le Mans victories. Its naturally aspirated engine combines racing technology such as dry sump lubrication with FSI gasoline direct injection. The ten-cylinder design is the perfect synthesis for impressive top performance, mighty pulling power, and low weight. Starting in 2009, this engine will also prove its potential on the world's racetracks – in the new R8 racing car Audi is developing for customer teams in conformance with the GT3 rules. The V10 engine in the production sports car will be almost identical in construction to the one in the racing version. Its displacement is 5,204 cc, at 6,500 rpm it delivers 530 Nm (390.91 lb-ft) of torque, at 8,000 rpm its power tops out at 386 kW (525 hp). The specific power output is 100.9 hp per liter of displacement – and each hp has to propel only 3.09 kilograms (6.91 lb) of weight, because the Audi R8 V10 in the version with the six-speed manual gearshift weighs only 1,620 kilograms (3571 lb). The engine accounts for 258 of these kilograms (569 lb) – that's only 31 kilos (68 lb) more than the V8. The Audi R8 5.2 FSI quattro rockets from zero to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 3.9 seconds. In the version with the sequentially shifting R tronic it reaches 200 km/h (124.27 mph) in another 8.1 seconds. Even then its propulsive power hardly lessens: it's sufficient to reach a top speed of 316 km/h (196.35 mph). The immense force, the spontaneity and the thrust of the acceleration, plus the sound of the engine – all these impressions coalesce into a breathtaking sports car experience. The V10 plays a concert with growling bass tones and powerful high notes, which grows into a grandiose fortissimo as the engine revs up. This sonorous acceleration doesn't reach its limit until 8,700 rpm. The 5.2-liter powerplant uses direct injection according to the FSI principle developed by Audi. A common rail system injects the fuel into the combustion chambers with up to 120 bar of pressure. Direct injection reduces the susceptibility to knocking and provides a certain amount of cooling through the evaporation of the fuel, which in turn supports a high compression ratio of 12.5:1. This in turn contributes to superior performance and improves fuel economy. The R8 V10 with R tronic gets by on an average of 13.7 liters per 100 km (17.17 US mpg). For maximum dynamics: low center of gravity engine The technical refinements of the long-stroke ten-cylinder engine include dry sump lubrication, which allows the engine to be mounted low within the chassis. The wide cylinder angle of 90 degrees also makes for a low center of gravity. The crankcase is a high-strength aluminum-alloy casting produced in a complex process. The connecting rods are made of forged steel, the pistons of aluminum. The four camshafts are chain-driven and each is adjustable through 42 degrees. This provides great latitude in controlling the valve timing. In combination with the straight, flow-optimized ducts of the intake manifold, this improves the charge throughout the entire speed range. The R8 5.2 FSI quattro has a six-speed transmission. A precise and smooth-shifting manual transmission comes as standard equipment. The sequential R tronic is available as an option. The high-tech gearshift conveys an authentic racing feel – with the rocker switches at the steering wheel and the short shifting times of usually less than one-tenth of a second. When the driver actuates the Launch Control program by pressing a button, the R8 V10 takes off in a vehement quick-start with electronically controlled tire slip – both with the R tronic and with the manual transmission. A contributing factor to the wide lead in traction and driving safety of the Audi R8 V10 over the competition is quattro all-wheel drive – it's the superior technology especially for a high-performance sports car. Four powered wheels get more grip than two. They enable the driver to step on the gas sooner when coming out of a curve. It's not only the traction that benefits, but also the transverse dynamics and the stability. 44 to 56 percent – the ideal axle load distribution The Audi R8 chassis offers both dynamic performance and astonishing levels of comfort on long distances. This high-performance sports car from Audi eagerly responds to any steering action with instant ease, achieves lateral acceleration of up to 1.2 g, and handles any situation with superb driving safety. Its mid-engine design provides an ideal axle load distribution of 44 to 56 percent. The wheel suspensions on dual aluminum wishbones front and rear – a classic racing technology – are optimized for neutral self-steering characteristics. Even more than in the eight-cylinder R8, this setup is designed for maximum performance. 19-inch wheels equipped with tire pressure monitoring display are standard equipment. Their 10-spoke Y design is exclusive to the R8 V10. Tire sizes are 235/35 front and 295/30 rear. The car features a high-end damper technology as standard: Audi magnetic ride adapts the characteristics of the suspension in milliseconds to the nature of the road surface and to the driving style. Suspended in the oil of the shock absorbers are tiny magnetic particles which, when a voltage is applied, rearrange themselves so as to slow down the flow of oil through the valves. In the R8 V10, deceleration is provided by an extremely muscular braking system – eight brake pistons at the front and four at the rear grasp the brake disks, which are ventilated and perforated to ensure unimpeded heat transfer. The brake disks on the front axle have a diameter of 380 millimeters (15 in); the rear discs span 356 millimeters (14 in). The R8 5.2 FSI quattro is optionally available with a ceramic brake system whose disks are made of a composite material containing high-strength carbon fibers and abrasion-resistant silicon carbide. These are especially light: their combined weight is nine kilograms (19.84 lb) less than the weight of equivalent steel disks. The ceramic brakes can easily cope with the harsher requirements of racing, won't corrode, and have a typical service life of 300,000 kilometers (186,400 miles). Their calipers are painted charcoal gray and emblazoned with the inscription "Audi ceramic". Typically Audi: Sharp lines and an elegantly curved roof The wide, full shape of the R8 5.2 FSI quattro seems to hug the road. The brawny proportions and prominent wheel wells underscore its potential. The high-precision styling of the lines and the elegant curve of the roof are typical Audi features. A continuous contour optically connects the front, the wheel wells, the sides and the rear. Located well forward, the cab visually expresses the mid-engine design. The vertical air scoops (sideblades) on the sides are also indicative of the engine location. The massive aluminum gas cap is mounted flush within the right sideblade. The design of the Audi R8 has already impressed experts, as evidenced by the double victory in the "World Car of the Year Awards 2008". In the ten-cylinder model, the styling has been sharpened up even more. The front air inlets, which feed air to the coolers, and the lip of the front apron are painted in high-gloss black. The number of cross-braces has been reduced from four to two. The vanes of the single-frame grille have a striking chrome finish. A very distinctive highlight of the R8 V10 are the all-LED headlights as standard equipment. Audi is the world's first automaker to use LEDs for the high beam, low beam, daytime running lights, and turn signals. Each headlight integrates 54 of these high-tech light sources. With a color temperature of 6,000 Kelvin the LED light closely resembles daylight, which is less tiring to the eyes in night driving. Further advantages of the LEDs include brilliant illumination, low energy consumption, and a virtually unlimited service life. Special details also distinguish the body of the R8 V10. Its sideblades are more accentuated than in the eight-cylinder version. The side sills are more striking and wider; the exhaust grilles at the rear windows have a matt aluminum look. Through the large rear window, the ten-cylinder engine is clearly visible in its consummate technical beauty. When in motion, this Audi high-performance sports car creates a downforce that keeps it in firm contact with the road – thanks to a rear spoiler which deploys automatically at 100 km/h and the fully enclosed underbody, which terminates in a sharply upward-curved diffuser. The dominant color at the rear end is high-gloss black, including the settings of the LED tail lights. The air outlets at the rear end also have only two cross-braces, and the exhaust system terminates in two large oval tailpipes. Audi sets the example – in body weight and rigidity The body of a sports car must be especially lightweight and rigid. Audi meets these requirements with the technology of the Audi Space Frame (ASF) and its high-tech aluminum construction. The body-in-white of the R8 V10, which includes an engine frame made of ultra-light magnesium, weighs only 210 kilograms (463 lb), and the quality of its lightweight design – the relation of weight to torsional rigidity – is the best in the sports car segment. The body is composed of profile extrusions, sheet aluminum and very complex gusset castings, all held together by 99 meters (325 ft) of welding seams, 782 rivets, and 308 special screws. The interior of the R8 V10 provides a unique racing ambience at the luxury level. Its dominant element is the so-called monoposto – a wide arc that contains the steering wheel and the cockpit. As always in an Audi, the workmanship is of the highest quality. The surfaces of the dashboard and doors are lined with fine materials and adorned with precisely stitched decorative seams. Many customizing solutions are available: Audi supplies leather in a wide range of colors, packages with a carbon and piano-lacquer finish, or a made-to-measure luggage set. quattro GmbH, which has developed and is producing the R8 V10, also provides solutions for unconventional requirements. The great everyday utility of the Audi R8 V10 is based in part on its spacious interior made possible by the long wheelbase of 2.65 meters (8.69 ft). Drivers and passengers of any size will always find a perfect sitting position. Visibility too is surprisingly good. Slender hinge pillars optimize the obliquely forward field of view. Another advantage for convenient everyday use is the luggage space: 100 liters (3.53 cu ft) fit under the front hood, another 90 liters (3.18 cu ft) can be stowed behind the seats. There is also room for two golf bags. The Audi R8 5.2 FSI quattro combines its colossal performance with a generous complement of standard equipment. Highlights include heatable seat covers made of Fine Nappa leather, a driver information system, the navigation system plus and the Bang & Olufsen sound system along with deluxe automatic air conditioning and an alarm system. The instruments and the gearshift knob are decorated with red rings; the footrests and the rocker switches of the R tronic have an aluminum finish. The list of options includes other highly attractive features – such as the Audi parking system advanced with its integrated rearview camera or numerous Audi exclusive customization options. Various leather packages provide a luxurious touch, while the bucket seats from the Audi exclusive program bring a highly concentrated racing atmosphere into the R8 V10. The Audi R8 5.2 FSI quattro will be rolled out in Germany in the second quarter of 2009 at a basic price of EUR 142,400. (...)
Mise à jour de la Jaguar XJ
Jaguar a annoncé avoir revu sa ligne de XJ, offrant ainsi au consommateur un véhicule équipé de plus de fonctions, sans pour autant en augmenter le coût. - XJ Executive 2.7-Litres Diesel : Cette version est maintenant équipé d’une navigation par satellite, d’une assistance Parking à l’avant et l’arrière, de phares Bi-Xenon avec essui-glaces, ou encore une calandre redessinée. Prix : 44,599£ (51 300€) - XJ Sovereign 2.7-Litres Diesel : Nouvelle Jantes 20’’ Takoba, ainsi que siège en cuir réglable électriquement en 16/16 (Chauffage et climatisation intégrés). Prix : 50,472£ (58 150€) Ces deux versions embarquent également le DAB (Digital Audio Broadcasting), un système Audio Premium avec chargeur 6 CD, le Jaguar Voice, sièges arrières chauffés,et une peinture métallique. La XJ Super V8 4.2-Litres embarque sous le capot le même moteur 4.2-Litres qui se trouvait dans la précédente XJR. Plus d’informations dans le communiqué de presse ci-dessous : Jaguar has revised the line-up of the award-winning XJ, offering customers even better value-for-money with a host of additional features now offered at no extra cost. UK Managing Director, Geoff Cousins, said: "The latest Jaguar XJ already benefits from stronger exterior styling for a more assertive and sporting appearance, significant improvements to the interior, and the latest intuitive in-car technology. "Recent improvements to the interior include an all-new seat design for improved comfort and support and heated front seats standard across the range while air-cooling is now standard on Sovereign models. The XJ also gained an increase in rear leg and foot room thanks to redesigned front seat backs, allowing easier access to the back seats. "Within the large premium sector, the updated XJ range offers even more outstanding value-for-money for the luxury customer who seeks refinement and dynamic performance combined with a competitive fuel economy. With two highly acclaimed engines to choose from, the XJ is undoubtedly a smart choice for buyers in today's market." For the second year running, the XJ 2.7-litre diesel was named Britain's Greenest Luxury Car in the Environmental Transport Association's 2008 Car Buyers Guide. The award recognises Jaguar's commitment to delivering CO2 and fuel consumption advantages to customers, with the development of industry-leading diesel engines and application of advanced lightweight aluminium vehicle architectures. Renowned for its all-aluminium body construction, the updated XJ line-up offers a choice of two engines for customers – the XJ diesel which offers drivers of luxury saloons the option to choose a car with combined fuel economy of 35.0mpg* and CO2 emissions of only 209g/km** – an improved figure for 2009, or the mighty 4.2-litre supercharged V8 petrol which has been named 'Super V8'. XJ Executive 2.7-litre Diesel – The Executive is priced at £44,599 and now includes satellite navigation as standard as well as front and rear parking aids, Bi-xenon headlamps with headlamp washers, bright mesh lower grille and side vents and Jaguar tread plates. XJ Sovereign 2.7-litre Diesel – The Sovereign is priced at £50,472 and features 20" Takoba wheels as standard along with 16/16 soft grain leather heated and cooled seats with embossed front headrests and a leatherette instrument panel and grab handles, plus Jaguar tread plates and front and rear lambs wool rug set. The Sovereign adds to the Executive specification with DAB (Digital Audio Broadcasting), metallic paint, power fold mirrors, heated rear seats, premium sound system with six CD changer and Jaguar Voice. The Sport Premium specification is no longer available in the XJ. XJ Super V8 4.2-litre Petrol – The Super V8 is priced at £57,760 and features the critically acclaimed 4.2-litre supercharged engine previously found in the XJR and boasts a luxurious interior with chrome side vents and Rich Oak veneer as standard. Other standard features offered with the Super V8 option include Jaguar's high performance braking system with black painted callipers and a Super V8 badge. (...)
Programme de "Customization" MC Sport Line pour la GranTurismo S de Maserati
Ferrari possédait déjà le sien, ce n’était donc plus qu’une question de temps pour que Maserati, la « petite sœur » du cheval cabré, ait également droit à son programme. Voici donc le programme de "customization" MC Sport Line de Maserati qui vient tout juste d'être présentée lors du salon de l’auto Italien, à Bologne. Utilisé pour son modèle phare, la Granturismo S, Maserati a décidé de « pimper » son coupé sport, et d’apporter tout le soin nécessaire à ce joli monstre, notamment avec plusieurs parties en fibre de carbone (Pare-chocs avant, aileron arrière, bas de caisse, poignées de porte ...). Notre MC Sport est également équipé de jantes 20’’ en finition noir-brillant, et l’intérieur a également reçu plusieurs petites modifications. MASERATI AT THE BOLOGNA MOTOR SHOW UNDER THE FLAG OF ITS SPORTY DNA The MC Sport Line customisation programme focuses on Maserati's racing heritage fresh from its latest international triumph in the FIA GT championship with the Bertolini-Bartels duo in Argentina, the land of Juan Manuel Fangio. Maserati has developed a special series of new options named "MC Sport Line", which make their worldwide debut at the Bologna Motor Show, with new content that adds to Maserati's already extensive range of personalisation options. The "MC Sport Line" is designed to enhance the sporty DNA of Maseratis for those customers who like to express their passion for racing through dynamic styling and a choice of technical solutions that increase driving fun without compromise. The name "MC Sport Line" sums up the on-track experience gained by the Maserati Corse department, whose contribution to the design of the functional components has been invaluable. The world of motor racing also inspired Maserati's designers when it came to styling, hence the extensive use of carbon fibre, exceptionally popular among racing enthusiasts thanks to its direct links to racing. The GranTurismo S, the ultimate expression of Maserati's performance, was the model chosen to first present the "MC Sport Line" catalogue to the public, which will be extended to the GranTurismo range and then will ultimately encompass the entire Maserati line-up during the course of 2009. From early 2009, GranTurismo S customers will not only be able to enhance the sporty look of their vehicle's exterior and interior - but different technical solutions will also be available. Aerodynamics can be modified thanks to the addition of front and rear carbon-fibre spoilers, which benefit from track tests conducted on the GranTurismo MC Concept; the new aerodynamics not only optimise the vertical load but give the car a very distinctive appearance, as do the side skirts with the central panel finished in matt black, adding a dynamic edge to the side view. The sporty look of the exterior can be completed with carbon fibre mirror housings and door handles. The same dark shade is reflected in the glossy black 20" wheel rims that perfectly match the dark line of the exterior. The carbon fibre door sill bearing the words "MC Sport Line", tells you that you are entering a different environment, in which carbon fibre characterises the door panels, dashboard and central tunnel. The steering wheel rim is also made from carbon fibre, as are the paddle shifts for the electro-actuated transmission and the body of the instrument panel, dashboard and door panels, featuring carbon moulding. Looking at the central tunnel, carbon fibre dominates the entire section, acting as a backdrop to enhance the brilliance of the chrome. The "MC" pedal block complete with kickplate to the left is machined from solid aluminium. Under the "skin", the suspension has been stiffened thanks to new, stiffer springs, shock absorbers and anti-roll bars; the new suspension set-up is synchronised with a specific Maserati Stability Programme software, allowing the driver more freedom. The car is now 10 mm lower than the GranTurismo S, resulting in on-road performance that is absolutely uncompromising in terms of handling and driving enjoyment. All the features listed are available either as part of the customisation package, following the indications of Maserati designers; or individually, to cater for the personal tastes of each customer. (...)
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