Nissan GT-R Australian pricing

Prix de l'assiette et le niveau de détails pour le terrain de battre Nissan GT-R ont été annoncés avant de la voiture en avril 1 australien ventes lancement.

L'ordinaire de GT-R sera disponible à partir de $ 155800 (PPI) et disposent d'une fonctionnalité complète la liste qui comprend le cuir et le suède synthétique sièges avant chauffants, les pédales en aluminium, Multi-Function Meter, configurable et de transmission mis en place de traction à double zone de contrôle climatique, téléphone mobile Bluetooth connectivité, et de sept pouces, écran couleur.

De plus, la GT-R Premium, différenciées par la garniture intérieure et des roues et pneus, le prix sera de $ 159800 (PPI) et comprend Real-couche de couleur noir de 20 pouces finition alliages, chaussé de Bridgestone RE070R à hautes performances de roulage à plat pneumatiques, révisé siège en noir avec parements rouges assiette et une haute performance audio BOSE système.

Depuis le lancement de la GT-R sur le marché japonais en Décembre 2007, plus de 4800 exemples ont été vendus dans le monde entier avec les pré-commandes déjà en Australie, un montant total de 150 unités.

Les prix sont en vigueur le 1 er avril et exclure concessionnaire et les frais de livraison. Gun & Titane métallisé couleurs de peinture sont au prix de 1750 $ de plus, tandis que Super Silver peinture est une prime supplémentaire $ 3000.

Les clients qui ont pré-commande de leur GT-R 1 avril avant sa date de lancement (et dont les véhicules sont livrés avant le 30 Juin 2009) sont en mesure de garantir le véhicule à bas prix de $ 148,800 et $ 152,800, respectivement.

CarAdvice au Melbourne International Motor Show

L'ensemble de CarAdvice équipe sera à Melbourne International Motor Show à partir de 7 heures très tôt demain pour vous offrir la couverture la plus complète de l'événement possible.
Nous sommes là d'abord comme les voitures neuves sont dévoilés, comme l'intérieur de news (et de ragots) pauses, de vous mettre des photos personnelles et près de toutes les choses que vous voulez voir, ainsi que nos podcasts sur place et les discussions avec le fabricant représentants à travers le jour.
Melbourne International Motor Show ouvre ses portes au public demain soir à partir de 5pm au Melbourne Exhibition Centre.

Toyota HC-CV in the Melbourne Motor Show

In front of Australia began producing Toyota Camry Hybrid and to publish, Toyota created the HC-CV on display at the 2009 Melbourne International Motor Show. This concept car is basically the 2010 Camry Hybrid with a modification in the future, new alloy wheels and leather seats with the new wave such as graphic logos Hybrid Synergy Drive.

HC-CV The launch marks countdown countdown 12 hours before the launch of the first hybrid car made in Australia. President and CEO of Toyota Australia, Max Yasuda said HC-CV Toyota became the most important model in the expo.

Camry Hybrid uses the four-cylinder engine combined with the strength of electric motor. Combination of two sources of energy that generate power with a total of more conventional models, and at the same time the fuel efficiency is better.

Toyota is the only car manufacturer that produces four-cylinder engine in Australia. Toyota Australia has been producing the Camry in the country since 22 years ago. Camry is the best-selling car in Australia for 15 years and is the main export Toyota Australia.

Bentley Continental Supersports

Two years ago, Bentley league entry in cars with the most extravagant high CO2 emissions. Supermewah car manufacturer decided to deliver this car is more environmentally friendly. Result, the Bentley Continental Supersports on display at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show, next sunday.

Behind the engine hood engines are the most brave Bentley ever made, namely W12 621hp and 590lb-ft. Bentley and not lose something special, torsi giant can be rool low 1750rpm. The effect, quiet acceleration from 60mph to be achieved in 3.7detik. Ini territory supercar. This supercar territory. Very few cars in the world who have the ability under 4 seconds.

Coupe is 55 kg lighter from his brother in a sedan. This coupe also uses a number of lightweight material to chop weight, such as carbon fiber. The merit is another application where the switching gear Quickshift more quickly doubled.

E-Class convertible in Frankfurt

Daimler AG in choosing his own exhibition to launch the 2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class wagon and convertible, the 2009 Frankfurt Auto Show. Previous luxury car company based in Stuttgart launched this E-Class sedan at the 2009 Detroit Motor Show and the E-Class coupe is scheduled dirlis in the 2009 Geneva Motor Show next week. Estimated model wagon and convertible ocean shortly after entering the market was introduced on the public.

There have been no detailed information regarding the second model. Including what engine will be used. However, machine-estimated mesinya not far different from that used in the sedan and coupe. Currently engine E-Class stretch of four-cylinder 136hp engine that is used E200CDI up to 388hp from a V8 engine in the E500 coupe disappear.

Toyota small car segment borer India

Toyota Kirloskar Motor, India to set up small car that will be introduced late in 2010. This car was designed specifically for the Indian market, as expressed by the Managing Director Hiroshi Nakagawa.

"Small car is entirely new, designed specifically for the Indian market. Employment in the second factory in Bangalore as scheduled and take some of the additional production capacity will be used to produce a small car, "said Nakagawa. While attending the 18th International Engineering and Technology Fair (IETF).

Toyota Kirloskar currently has installed capacity of 60000-65000 units and the second factory will add 70,000 units. Mini car that can shape future Hatchback or sedan.

Throughout the year 2008, Toyota Kirloskar Motor sells 52,000 units successfully Innova and Corolla and optimistic this year could reach that level again. Small car in India is very popular. Who successfully master this segment, he will be the Indian market, one of the automotive market is growing at this time.

The record of the most Fast Sports Car in the World

The Cristiano Ronaldo sprint whipped the rate of a car super that had the maximal speed 407 km/the hour. Know his secret? Evidently Ronaldo put on Nike Mercurial Vapor IV shoes, said the news was written by Detikcom. Ck.. ck.. Along with this the Bugatti Veyron photograph was taken from Wikipedia.
Ngomongin the car super (super fast super expensive, red), the car that was overcome by Ronaldo was Bugatti Veyron that was produced by Volkswagen AG/Bugatti Automobiles SAS. Bugatti Veyron costing 14.7 billion rupiah this recorded the great record speed 408.47 km/the hour or 253.8 mph in October 2005.
Evidently had the other car that broke the Bugatti Veyron record, that is SSC Ultimate Aero TT, please saw his details here. The car super that recorded the record this September 13 2007, had the speed 411.76 km/the hour or 256.15 mph. Unbelievable.. kenceng really. The car super moreover yes following that will emerge. Nah if by this car I did not know whether Ronaldo could whip his speed.

Mercedes-Benz to donate to Victorian Bushfire Fund

Mercedes-Benz Australia/Pacific (MBAuP) has today announced it will be donating an initial sum of $107,000 to the Victorian Bushfire Fund.

A sum of $100,000 will be made by MBAuP immediately with the company’s board of seven directors each personally donating $1,000.

The President and CEO of MBAuP, Mr Wolfgang D Schrempp, said: “The MBAuP Board, as well as our employees and our dealer partners, are shocked by the severity of these fires and our thoughts and support are with the entire Victorian community as we all respond to these tragic events. We strongly encourage all Australian companies, automotive and otherwise, to join all Australians in supporting those in need during this important time.”

Activities are currently underway for the company’s 1000-strong staff to amass a collective team-based donation, supplementing the $107,000 already committed.

Should you be able to donate any money at all to the fund, please do so by clicking here. All donations over $2 are tax deductable.

Rare Bugatti sells for AUD$6.6 million

A rare Bugatti left behind in a UK garage has today sold at auction in Paris for almost AUD$6.6 million - more than double the price of the brand’s modern Veyron hypercar.

The incredible 1937 Type 57S Atalante belonged to the late Dr. Harold Carr, a car enthusiast and collector, and is one of only 17 ever made.

Despite its substantial price tag, the Type 57S may have been picked up for a bargain with initial price estimates at the time of discovery more than doubling the sum at auction.

Built as a special edition model of the standard Type 57, the Type 57S Atalante was lower and more powerful, although remarkably it was not the rarest.

An ever rarer variant of the Type 57 was built by Bugatti, a supercharged Type 57SC which developed up to 149kW of power - of which only two were ever made.

Dr. Carr had passed on the contents of his garage to his nieces and nephews in his will without revealing the treasures which lay inside.

Alongside the rare Bugatti is reported to have been an E-Type Jaguar and vintage Aston Martin.

Nissan to cut 20,000 jobs worldwide

Joining a growing list of manufacturers cutting costs and subsequently staff, Nissan has just announced it will cut 20,000 jobs worldwide, or about 8.5% of its global workforce.

The Japanese giant blames the sharp fall in sales and the glooming world economy as the reason. Nissan expects to lose about 265bn yen ($4.3bn) in the current financial year.

Once the saviour of Nissan and a national hero in Japan, chief executive Carlos Ghosn publicly stated the the firm’s “worst assumptions on the state of the global economy have been met or exceeded. The global auto industry is in turmoil. Nissan is no exception.”

The 20,000 jobs are expected to go between March 2009 and March 2010, this will leave Nissan with 215,000 staff from 235,000. There is no confirmation as to which plants will be affected, although as reported last month Nissan Australia has already cut 50 jobs. The company is also planing to cut working hours for ongoing staff.

The news comes amid an 18.6% sales decline for the brand during October-December last year. As a result, Nissan lost 83.2bn yen ($1.37 billion), compared with a 132.2bn ($2.17 billion) profit a year earlier.

Apart from the 20,000 workers set to lose their income, Nissan is expected to suffer a credibility dint in its home country.

So far this year the majority of car companies have taken steps in reducing staff and output as the doom-gloom sales decline becomes a reality.

Hyundai to unveil SUV concept in Geneva

Hyundai is set to unveil a new compact SUV concept at the Geneva motor show later this year, which has been styled at the company’s European Design headquarters in Rüsselsheim, Germany.

Codenamed the HED-6, this concept will give a clear indication of the direction which Hyundai will take with its next generation of SUVs.

According to Hyundai, the design team has combined a muscular design with everyday utility to create a car which will fit comfortably in an urban or off-road environment.

Allan Rushforth, Vice President at Hyundai Motor Europe said, “The HED-6 brings an entirely new look to Hyundai’s SUV line-up. It fuses a robust exterior with a fresh and elegant interior, making for an eye-catching package, while its latest-generation power train highlights Hyundai’s clean-technology expertise.”

The exterior look is emphasised by a hexagonal grille, angular style lines and back-swept front headlamps, with the bold look completed by 21-inch, mirror-polished alloy wheels and a specially developed ‘Ice Blue’ exterior paint.

The HED-6 also reportedly marks the introduction of LED day time running lights into the Hyundai range as a trademark feature of the new concept.

Powering the new concept is a 1.6-litre GDi turbocharged engine which develops a rather healthy 130kW.

Also making their world premiere at the Geneva motor show from Hyundai will be the new i30 blue and i20 three-door.

The “blue” label represents a new ultra-low emissions sub-brand from Hyundai which demonstrates the company’s commitment to lowering CO2 output and reducing costs for consumers.

The i30 blue will be the first mass production vehicle to wear the new label and will also debut Hyundai’s ISG (Idle Stop and Go) technology in a production model for the first time.

This technology has been demonstrated to reduce fuel consumption by seven per cent when applied to the 1.6-litre petrol engine, while achieving a lower CO2 rating of 142g/km, compared to 152g/km on the regular i30 1.6.

Ford Mustang (2010)

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Muscle goes modern for 2010 as the Ford Mustang - America's favorite muscle car for 45 years straight - hits the streets with a new exterior design; new world-class interior featuring well-crafted materials and updated technology; and a V8 with even more horsepower and an even throatier signature Ford Mustang exhaust sound.
Combine those elements with the new Mustang's improved handling characteristics, more standard safety and technology features and its already-strong safety and quality performance and reputation, and it's easy to see how the muscle car known around the world delivers on the promise of fast, fun and affordable performance for a whole new era.
"More than 9 million customers have made Ford Mustang one of the world's most beloved automotive and cultural icons," said Mark Fields, Ford's president of The Americas. "Making sure this modern legend lives up to their expectations has been a driving force for the team, which went to great lengths - gathering customer input everywhere from race tracks to Main Streets in cities throughout the U.S. - working to create the best Ford Mustang ever."
For 2010, the team delivered. "The new Ford Mustang marks new levels of both power and refinement," said Paul Randle, Mustang chief engineer. "We've designed and engineered this to be the next classic Mustang that everyone talks about for years and years."
In true Ford Mustang tradition, there is a "steed for every need." At launch, customers can choose from a V6 or V8 with their choice of coupe, convertible or innovative glass roof, plus several new options and features delivering the opportunity for customers to personalize their cleaner, meaner-looking Mustangs.
"The best Mustangs have always been the ones that connect young America with the spirit of the times - and the 2010 does exactly that," said J Mays, Ford's group vice president of Design. "The new Ford Mustang is close to the magnetic center of the original, fully loaded with the swagger you'd expect, but with modern refinement and attention to detail like you've never seen in a muscle car."
It starts with the more aggressive grille, punctuated with the first new Mustang emblem since the car's introduction in 1964. Both the V6 and GT have brand-new sculptured front-end designs unique to each model. The headlamps and turn indicators, now integrated into one unit, are modern interpretations inspired by the 1970 Ford Mustang. On the V6, the fog lamps are located on the lower fascia, while on the GT, the fog lamps are again located in the upper grille - but are smaller than the outgoing model, similar to the original lamps of the 1967-68 models that inspired them.
"We understand Mustang's heritage and iconic status it has in the world and as a symbol of Americana," said Peter Horbury, executive director of Design, The Americas. "We wanted to create a face that is more muscular but unquestionably, unequivocally Ford Mustang and carry that spirit through to the entire car."
The exterior sheet metal, except for the fast-back roofline, is all new for 2010. At the front, the new headlamps, lower fascias, fenders and grille are capped by a powerdome hood that adds to the muscular appearance while functionally allowing for enhanced air cooling of the engine.
Mustang's washer-fluid nozzles are tucked into the cowl, while the antenna has been moved to the rear, both of which create a cleaner appearance while also reducing wind noise.
Front rear fenders feature taut, sculptured wheel flares, like a tight skin stretched over the wheels. A classic spear character line on the doors leads to a modern indication of "hip" rear fenders. "It helps give the car aggressive, forward direction, like it's ready to jump," said Doug Gaffka, Ford Mustang chief designer.
The rear end design features aggressively angled rear corners, a sculptured decklid and prominent rear badge. A rear-view camera incorporated into the spoiler is available on some models.
A notable new tail lamp design features three LED bulbs firing sequentially from the inside for turn indication. The sequential bulbs were a distinct Ford Mustang feature in the '60s and comeback to the 2010 for the first time since then. Locating the reverse lamps vertically creates a modern version of the Ford classic three-lens taillamp.
The best of new, heritage
Cleverly combining modern technology with Ford Mustang heritage is a signature of the 2010 model, in terms of both design and engineering.
"All of the Bullitt elements are the base foundation of the GT," said Randle, noting engine and chassis improvements. "We also applied some improvements gained from Ford Mustang racing. We're learning constantly and always giving that to the customer on the base car."
The wheel-and-tire combinations are 1 inch bigger across the board, ranging from 17 to 19 inches, which helps improve handling and braking. The shocks have been retuned on all models as well.
"We adjusted the springs, stabilizer bars and shocks to better balance the ride, steering and handling for all models, which results in a more engaging driving experience," adds Mustang Vehicle Engineering manager Tom Barnes. "The 2010 Mustangs feel more controlled for steering and handling, yet retain a good ride balance."
The 2010 Ford Mustang 4.6-liter V8 benefits from innovations from the popular Ford Mustang Bullitt model. Power has increased to 315 horsepower.
"It runs on regular gasoline, but if you put in premium it has adaptive calibration that will give you even better mid-range torque," Barnes said, adding that Easy Fuel™, Ford's innovative capless fuel system, is standard on all models.
"It's an upgrade to the most-robust, most-accessorized engine in the marketplace today," Randle added. "No one has the reliability, no one has the upgraded options. This is a fantastic engine, proven on the race track, the drag strip and on the highway."
AdvanceTrac™ Electronic Stability Control (ESC) is now standard and complements Mustang's all-speed traction control and anti-lock braking system (ABS).
"It gives a driver a little more confidence that in any type of condition the car will maintain what they want it to do," Barnes said. "The 2010 Ford Mustang improves ride quality and maintains world-class steering and handling."
In addition to all of the design and driving dynamics improvements, the 2010 Ford Mustang is engineered to maintain its top government safety ratings. Standard safety equipment includes: dual stage front driver and passenger air bags; front seat-mounted side air bags; and, Ford's Personal Safety System.

Interior leads in design, materials, content and comfort
Like the exterior, the interior design is all new with world-class materials and execution.
The powerful new one-piece instrument panel design is crafted in seamless soft-touch TPO (Thermoplastic Olefin) skin fully encompassing available genuine aluminum-finish panels. Mustang's chromed-ringed gauges and dual-vane air register vents are precisely crafted and positioned.
"That's the difference between good enough and exceptional," said Gary Morales, Interior Design manager. "We wouldn't accept anything less than leadership design and world-class craftsmanship."
The instrument panel and console flow as one shape, another strong connection to Ford Mustang heritage. The seats and arm rests have softer materials with high-quality stitching.
The new center stack design adds the latest version of Ford SYNC™, with new features 911 Assist and Vehicle Health Report. Drivers also can customize their ambient and instrument lighting through the My Color™ system, which features 125 color options.
"The centerstack is quite progressive. The electronic finish panel containing the audio and climate control buttons and knobs are integrated into the finish panel," said Kim Zielinski, Mustang Instrument Panel engineer, 2010 Mustang. "I believe the customers will really like the new look."
In addition to the improvements in technology and comfort, drivers will notice a quieter ride. "It's much more vault-like," Barnes said. "But we maintained the signature Ford Mustang sound."
The upgraded instrument panel along with new sound deadeners added to select areas helped improve interior quietness, especially at high speeds or on rough roads. All the better to hear that famous Ford Mustang roar.
With a completely redone exterior that echoes the classic Mustang designs of the past, an interior featuring world-class materials, numerous technology upgrades and an improved driving experience, the 2010 Ford Mustang is poised to become the latest classic in the proud line of Ford's iconic American muscle car.
"The 2010 Mustang is drop-dead gorgeous," Randle said. "This car marks the best efforts of 45 years of passion and enthusiasm among the best designers, engineers and manufacturing experts in the business, and we can't wait for everyone to see it and start driving it."
The 2010 Ford Mustang will be built at the Auto Alliance International Plant in Flat Rock, Mich.
2010 FORD MUSTANG: MORE MUSCULAR, MODERN
More muscle. More motion. More Mustang. All of that comes standard on Ford's 2010 Mustang - which reflects a new design inside and out.
"Leaders lead, and that's what we continue to do with this American icon," said J Mays, group vice president of Design. "The 2010 is a Mustang true to its bloodline, with impeccable proportions, honest shapes and beautiful surface language. It executes the best of Ford Mustang in a dramatic and modern way."
The Ford Mustang design team, led by Chief Designer Doug Gaffka and Design Manager George Saridakis, referenced classic Mustang design cues and developed a thoroughly modern interpretation, giving more "muscle" to the iconic car. The result is a more athletic-looking Ford Mustang with continuous, flowing lines emanating from highly sculpted surfaces.

This Pony is One Sinewy Steed
Look no further than Mustang's signature pony badge for the essence of the 2010 design. The badge, which is larger and more chiseled, sits proudly in the upper grille.
"Everything we tried to do with this car's new exterior design is represented in the new pony," said Gaffka. "It tells the whole story. It's athletic, aggressive and modern."
From the V6 to the Shelby GT500, the goal was to make each model appear even more sculpted than its predecessor. The result is a lineup of iconic cars that maintain their identity in a contemporary way. Each classic design element - the grille shape, the "hockey stick,' the hop up into the rear haunch, the quarter-glass window, the three-bar tail lamp, the center-mounted gas cap - is modernized in a way that lends the new car even more presence and character.
The aggressive look is enhanced by larger grille openings flanked by slimmer headlamps, which now incorporate integrated turn indicators.
"Modern styling utilizes all of our technical know-how combined with state-of-the-art componentry," Saridakis said. "Throughout this Ford Mustang, we've introduced modern twists like integrated technology, LED tail lamps and HID head lamps, efficient packaging and better proportions."
The team further enhanced the agile design by stripping away unnecessary clutter. That included minimizing overhangs, eliminating the rear key-hole cylinder, chamfering the rear corner and simplifying the pedestal spoilers to a more compact design. The antenna, previously on the front fender, is now much shorter and relocated to the rear of the 2010 Ford Mustang. The result is a clean, sporty design that looks smart and efficient.
The front end on all models is lower and appears wider with strong wheel arches pushing up and out of the muscular fenders. Dynamic character lines emerging from above the grille sweep rearward into a more powerful, sculptural hood, further expressing Mustang's potency.
The addition of lower front splitters adds to the sporting appearance but are also functional aerodynamic elements improving Mustang's fuel economy, downforce and overall performance. An athletic, sinewy design is emphasized by distinctive character lines that grow out of the main body, "as if the sheetmetal has been shrink-wrapped like a skin suit around the muscles and skeleton of the car's understructure," Saridakis said.
Echoing Mustangs of the past, the main side-character lines - the wind splitter and iconic hockey stick - return with contemporary execution.
The 2010 Mustang's surface forms and linework, particularly the dropping fender line running into the belt-line kick-up and rear haunch, give the impression that the car squats down slightly in an aggressive stance that gives it the appearance of even more muscularity.
The team worked to develop a more optimized wrap-around rear-end look as well. The accelerated taper to the side surfaces, truncated into chamfered corners at the rear, enhance Mustang's compact appearance while the new two-piece rear fascia amplifies the car's width and stance by visually reducing the car's height.
Another inherited and distinctly identifiable Ford Mustang cue comes in the form of the tri-bar tail lamps. The three individual red chambers, each lit sequentially by a single Luxion LED, are separated by two clear vertical back-up elements, ensuring the tri-bar look is recognized in lit or unlit conditions. The sequential illumination of each chamber is a unique and important characteristic of the 2010 Mustang's identity.
"Front to back, the 2010 Ford Mustang is thoroughly modern in its interpretations of the classic Mustang look," Gaffka said. "The proportions are timeless and magnificent. It is the tightest, most premium race horse we've ever done. And it begs to be driven - hard."
2010 FORD MUSTANG DELIVERS MORE REFINED RIDE
Thanks to Ford's extensive racing and special program initiatives, customers can look forward to a nimbler, more-responsive Ford Mustang.
Extensive improvements to the next-generation Ford Mustang, readily apparent on the exterior design and interior content and material upgrades, will be felt in the ride and handling of the 2010 model. Taking a cue from the successful Mustang Bullitt and Ford Racing vehicles, many of those enhancements are carried through the full Ford Mustang lineup.
Standard on all models is a three-link rear suspension with a panhard bar.
AdvanceTrac®, new for 2010, traction control and anti-lock brakes also are standard. AdvanceTrac uses sensors to detect and measure yaw, or side-to-side skidding conditions, by monitoring the vehicle's speed, throttle position and steering wheel angle. When AdvanceTrac senses wheel slippage, it reduces engine torque and applies the brakes as needed.
AdvanceTrac can be run on or off with the V6. In the GT, AdvanceTrac, can be run in on, off or Sport mode, which allows drivers to push it more while still retaining control.
"We adjusted the springs, stabilizer bars and shocks to better balance the ride, steering and handling for all models, which results in a more engaging driving experience," said Vehicle Engineering Manager Tom Barnes. "The 2010 Mustangs feel more controlled for steering and handling, yet retain a good ride balance."
Tires are increased by an inch across the Ford Mustang line, with 17-inch tires standard on the V6 and 18-inch tires standard on the V8. A 19-inch Pirelli Summer tire is late available as an option for those seeking higher performance.
The proven chassis from the Bullitt series serves as the base for the GT. A tower-to-tower brace pioneered on the Bullitt lends additional torsional and lateral stiffness to the chassis to improve cornering for those selecting the 19-inch tire.
"You're getting the best-handling, best-balanced Mustang ever as the base GT," said Chief Nameplate Engineer Paul Randle.
Design and engineering teams spent a lot of time honing the aerodynamics of the 2010 Ford Mustang, ensuring that both the aerodynamic drag and lift balance were improved for better overall efficiency.
"We've reduced the drag coefficient, which measures the ability of the Mustang to slip through the air, by 4 percent in the V6 models and 7 percent in the GT models," said Product Design Engineer Steve Parks. "In addition, we reduced the front aerodynamic lift for the 2010 Mustang by 37 percent for V6 models and 23 percent for GT models, which significantly improves steering feedback and driver confidence at higher speeds."
As always, extensive option packages are available for the 2010 Ford Mustang.
Options include:GT Track Package I (manual only) Performance front brake pads3.73 axle ratioRecalibrated AdvanceTrac®GT Track Package II (manual only, late availability) Performance front/rear brake padsGT500 Sta-Bars and rear lower control armsRetuned struts and shocks19-inch Pirelli Summer tires3.73 axle ratio with carbon plates in the differentialRecalibrated AdvanceTrac®, traction control and anti-lock brakes

2009 Cadillac CTS Being Recalled for Airbag Related Problem

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued a recall of 12,662 MY2009 Cadillac CTS vehicles due to a software problem within the passenger-airbag sensing system. The electronic glitch may lead to the disablement of the front passenger air bag when it should be enabled or vice-versa. GM's dealers will reprogram 2009 CTS' passenger sensing system module free of charge with the recall expected to begin on or about November 18, 2008.

Source:Caarscoop

Lofton and Owens net Daytona front row

Californian Justin Lofton and Daytona Beach native Alli Owens were the top-two qualifiers in ARCA RE/MAX qualifying at the Daytona International Speedway on Friday afternoon. The ARCA season opens Saturday afternoon with the 46th running of the Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200. Lofton, 22, cruised around the 2.5-mile oval at a speed of 182.120 miles per hour and Owens was close behind at 181.510 mph. The fast qualifier drove the Lofton Cattle Toyota fielded by David Bean, and Owens was behind the wheel of the Electrifyingcareers.com Toyota owned by Eddie D'Hondt Racing. "The car felt really good," said Lofton. "Driving around here doesn't require too much other than a good handling car. My team has done an excellent job of setting up the car. We used exactly the same set up the team as Bryan Clauson did when he got the Nationwide (Series) pole in July, and it worked again. It was really easy to do, and I don't think we are going out in happy hour. We will leave the car in the impound area, and go relax, knowing we have done the first part of our job." Owens, 20, expressed delight with her rapid run. "We changed engines last night and didn't have any laps on the motor. Going out there and getting the outside pole for the first-time ever is awesome." Teenage sensation Joey Logano qualified third fastest in a Toyota followed by the Toyotas of 2008 Daytona winner Michael Annett and Brian Scott. Five-time Daytona victor Bobby Gerhart qualified his Chevrolet in the sixth spot. James Buescher, Will Kimmel, Craig Goess and Tom Hessert rounded out the top-10 qualifiers. Frank Kimmel, the nine-time ARCA champion, qualified a Ford 24th. The 46th annual ARCA event takes the green flag Saturday at 4:15 p.m. Eastern.

NASCAR circus rolls into Daytona Beach

The 2009 NASCAR season hasn't started yet, but the drivers and teams rolled into Daytona Beach this week to begin preparations for Saturday's Budweiser Shootout and for Sunday's Daytona 500 qualification runs. For the 51st year, the action will take place on the high banks at the Daytona International Speedway.

Prior to firing the engines, 49 drivers met with the media on Thursday and dozens of print, television and radio reporters gathered around to obtain their insights into the season ahead. Representing the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series, the Nationwide Series and the newly entitled Camping World Truck Series, the drivers were photographed in uniform -- many of whom were seen for the first time with their new team names and sponsor logos. Not unexpectedly, superstars Dale Earnhardt Jr., Jeff Gordon, Carl Edwards, Tony Stewart, Mark Martin and Jimmie Johnson grabbed the lion's share of the spotlight. Also, the presence of NASCAR chairman and CEO Brian France added importance to the day's activities.
In a NASCARMedia.com pre-season poll, the media predicted Edwards would succeed three-time champion Johnson for the coveted Sprint Cup crown. Edwards finished with 70 first-place votes compared to Johnson's 37. Kyle Busch, Gordon, Earnhardt Jr. and Greg Biffle rounded out the top-six. The outcome pleased Edwards but not Johnson. "It is not annoying and everyone is entitled to their opinion," Johnson said. "The odds are stacked against us winning it again, as no one has ever done it before. From my perspective, I truthfully think we do have a shot at a fourth championship and should be ranked No. 1. When you look at our stats and see what we have done over the last three years, I think it should lean that way. But the poll does make for good pre-season hype."
Edwards had been tabbed as the favorite previously and it didn't work out. "There's no pressure on me because of a poll," he said. "People picked me for 2006, but it didn't work out. Winning nine races and having a great year in 2008 was okay, but I would take a championship with no wins any time. My goal is to win the championship." In 2008, Edwards believes mishaps at Talladega and Charlotte derailed his championship effort, but he doesn't let it affect his outlook. "It is tough to win when Jimmie ran as well as he did. We did outperform their team in many races." Johnson projected the ban on testing will not impact Daytona activities but it may show be noticeable at the forthcoming California and Las Vegas events. "If testing is an equalizer, it will be obvious; if it separates us more, it will be obvious, too." About phenomenon Joey Logano's upcoming rookie season, Johnson compared the teenager to Denny Hamlin, who moved ahead without an abundance of experience. "Joey will have an opportunity to create his own destiny at Daytona. He has shown his smarts, and Joe Gibbs and company wouldn't be putting their faith in him unless they thought he could do it." By comparison, Johnson said he only had three or four plate races under his belt before competing in the Daytona 500, and Logano is in nearly the same situation.
Ryan Newman, the 2008 Daytona 500 winner, has joined Stewart-Haas Racing for the new season, but he's not in the Budweiser Shootout. He will watch the race from Stewart's pit box or the team's motor home.
Jeff Gordon, Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet. Photo by Eric Gilbert.
Elliott Sadler is in the Budweiser Shootout for the fourth time and hopes the race will help alleviate the tension that arose within his team due to his contractual problems. For a while, it looked like Sadler had been given his walking papers by the Gillett Evernham Motorsports team, but after extended negotiations, he returned to the team, now called Richard Petty Motorsports. "Everything is resolved, and it is all behind us," Sadler said. "Everything should be fine and there are a lot of new guys on the team, even a new pit crew. And there's a lot of motivation in Elliott Sadler." The Virginia native is thrilled to be racing under the Petty banner. "How many drivers have driven for the legendary Wood Brothers and the Petty teams? Richard's presence is an advantage to me and I want to feed off of him." A.J. Allmendinger will be with the Petty team for at least a few races, and Sadler believes the team will be stronger with the latter's presences. "I want A. J. to run well, and I want to help him with sponsorship. We will be stronger as a four-car team than we would be as a three-car team." The Budweiser Shootout field will hold its initial practice session on Friday at 4:15 p.m. EST followed by another practice in the evening. The 75-lap race will take the green flag on Saturday at 8:10 p.m. EST.

Source from : motorsport

Toro Rosso keeps Bourdais

After keeping the Frenchman in character-building suspense through most of the close season, Red Bull Racing announced Friday the four-time Champ Car title winner will return to Scuderia Toro Rosso's Formula One team. His second season in F1 finds Bourdais wanting to improve on four points scored, fourth spot in qualifying, and seventh place as highest finish earned. He started each of 18 races staged. Bourdais loses teammate Sebastian Vettel to the mother ship, Red Bull, whose lead driver Mark Webber returns to action next week in testing after breaking his right leg when he and his mountain bike crashed into an SUV during an extreme endurance contest in November.

Happily for Bourdais, he won't need to learn any new names; Swiss driver Sebastien Buemi will be his new Toro Rosso teammate. But the Frenchman will face the same old challenge of trying to keep up with a younger, faster teammate. Buemi showed his heels throughout off-season testing in Toro Rosso and Red Bull chassis. Loser in the musical seats game was veteran F1 racer Takuma Sato, whose team, Super Aguri, died under him after four races last season. "It has been a very long and difficult winter, but now the waiting is finally over and I am really excited about tackling my second season with Scuderia Toro Rosso," Bourdais said. "I would like to thank Red Bull and Dietrich Mateschitz for this opportunity to continue with a team that made so much progress last year. Now, I can focus on preparing for the coming season. It promises to be a very interesting one, thanks to all the rule changes, and I'm also looking forward to establishing a good relationship with my new teammate, Sebastien Buemi, to ensure both of us do the best possible job for the team and for Red Bull." Bourdais and Buemi must carry on with the great leap handed them by Vettel, who gave the team its first pole and first victory in Italy, a tremendous feat for the smallest team on the grid.
Keeping on the heat will be team principal Franz Tost. "We are pleased that Sebastien will be with us again for another season,". Tost said. "After one year with Toro Rosso, we expect him to profit from the experience he gained last season. He now knows the F1 environment, the race tracks, and the team. In addition, the slick tires, which make a comeback this year, should suit his driving style very well. Therefore, he will tackle the coming season with much more experience under his belt. This will be especially valuable given that our other driver, Sebastien Buemi, is an F1 rookie, who has come up through the ranks of the Red Bull Junior Driver program." No word on prospects for unemployed Jenson Button of the defunct Honda team. He turned 29 last month. Discuss this article in the Motorsport.com Forums channel: F1

Source from : motorsport

Audi R8 V12 TDI Concept (2008)

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Audi is presenting a revolution in the top class at the Detroit Auto Show 2008 - the first 12-cylinder diesel engine in a high-performance roadgoing sports car. The V12 TDI with a displacement of six liters powers a concept car based on the Audi R8. This unit generates a huge 500 hp and 1,000 Newtonmeters (737.56 lb-ft) of torque. Audi is writing a new chapter in diesel technology with this power unit. Equipped with the expertise that Audi has built up through its motor sport activities, the R8 V12 TDI in matt "Grace Silver" embodies superb road handling, pioneering technology and fascinating design.
The V12 TDI is closely related to the engine in the Audi R10, the two-time Le Mans winner - so it catapults the Audi R8 into supercar terrain concerning performance too. It sprints from zero to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in just 4.2 seconds and its top speed is well over 300 km/h (186.41 mph). The peak torque, reached at only 1,750 rpm, paves the way for effortless acceleration that is unrivaled even at this level.
The new V12 TDI belongs to Audi's family of V engines but has the ideal included angle for this engine type of 60 degrees between cylinder banks. Its highlights include the new chain drive layout that includes the two newly developed high-pressure pumps for the common rail injection system. Its sound is as thrilling as you'd expect in a sports car of this caliber. For all the subtle smoothness that typifies this design principle, the twelve-cylinder unit is full-bodied and equipped with energetic overtones that make no secret of its performance potential.

The Genes of the Winner
Thanks to their high performance and pulling power, all Audi TDI engines are ultra-dynamic sources of power. The brand has often enough demonstrated its sporty character in its production cars, especially the six- and eight-cylinder 3.0 TDI and 4.2 TDI. Audi has also been writing a new chapter in its success story on the racetrack since 2006. The diesel engine in the R10 sports prototype won its very first endurance race at Sebring, Florida, when it was pitted against an entire field of gasoline-engined challengers. But its most crucial victories were surely in 2006 and 2007 in the 24 Hours of Le Mans, when it simply outclassed the international elite.
The V12 TDI race engine in the R10 produces over 650 hp from a displacement of 5.5 liters, giving it the potential for a top speed as high as 330 km/h (205.05 mph) depending on the gear ratios. Its power and sturdiness immediately impressed both fans and experts, who were impressed by its restrained noise level. Unusual for a race engine, this powerful Audi diesel makes barely more than a whisper.
Long traditions of motor racing and production technology complement each other at Audi. The FSI engine of the R10's predecessor, the R8, captured five wins at Le Mans with a direct gasoline injection system. Audi is also looking to maximize the advantage by using the race-tested FSI principle in its production models. The latest examples of this are the V8 with high-revving concept in the RS 4 and the production version of the Audi R8.

The Drivetrain
The roadgoing version of the new V12 TDI is built at the Györ plant, in Hungary. And the R8 V12 TDI still has a massive 500 hp on tap. In developing the six-liter engine, it was a clear priority to integrate it into the current family of Audi V engines, of which many thousands of versions with 6, 8 and 10 cylinders have already been built - both gasoline and TDI.
Audi's engineers were in an ideal position to use their experience building the racing engine to develop the road version. Like the other power units in this range, the distance between cylinder bore axes on the V12 TDI is 90 mm (3.54 in.). Yet its included angle is 60 degrees, not 90 degrees. This means no free inertial forces or mass moments of inertia can occur with the V12. The results are refined in every respect.
The 83.0 mm (3.27 in.) bore and 91.4 mm (3.60 in.) stroke produce a total displacement of 5,934 cc - just like the 3.0 TDI. At only 684 mm (26.93 in.) long, this large diesel engine is very compact and just 166 mm (6.54 in.) longer than the V8 TDI. This compact length is key to accommodating the V12 in the midengined Audi R8.
The V12 TDI crankcase is made from gray cast iron with vermicular graphite - a high-tech material referred to as GJV-450 that is already used on the V6 and V8 TDI engines. GJV-450, made by a patented casting process, is about 40 percent more rigid and 100 percent more fatigue-resistant than gray cast iron. This enabled the developers to make its walls thinner, cutting its weight by around 15 percent compared with conventional gray cast iron.
The two cylinder heads are each made from three main elements. These are a base section made from a high-strength aluminum alloy incorporating the intake and exhaust ports, an oil-bearing upper section, and a reinforcing ladder frame supporting the two camshafts.
The valves are actuated by low-friction roller cam followers; the compression ratio is 16.0:1. Map-controlled swirl variation of the combustion air has been adopted from the V6 and V8 TDI engines. This produces permanently optimized swirl concerning both emissions and high performance.

Ultramodern Injection Technology
As is the case in the Audi V engines, the no-maintenance chain drive is mounted at the back of the engine, where it occupies little space. Its layout has changed on the new V12 TDI. The camshafts' sprocket engages in an intermediate gear via which two Simplex chains drive the camshafts. Two more chains drive the oil pump and the two high-pressure pumps actuate the common rail injection system.
The two new dual-piston high-pressure pumps form part of the common rail injection system supplied by specialty manufacturer Bosch. The two pumps build up a pressure of up to 2,000 bar in the rails. The piezo injectors with eight-hole nozzles have also been fundamentally revised.
The high pressure distributes the mixture optimally throughout the combustion chamber. The result is that the ignition process is faster, more homogeneous and more acoustically refined. The more efficient combustion process also increases power output, cuts consumption and reduces pollutant emissions.
The current generation of so-called inline injectors makes effective use of the piezo effect: piezo crystals expand in a fraction of a millisecond when an electrical voltage is applied. The number of injection processes per operating cycle can be varied across a wide range thanks to piezo technology - reaching as many as five fuel injection operations in the case of the V12 TDI.
As well as the main injection, pilot and post injections are possible. Pilot injections tone down the acoustic harshness of the combustion process. Retarded post injections are designed specifically to increase the temperature of the exhaust gas, promoting regeneration of the two standard particulate filters.
The two turbochargers are located on the outside of the engine's V, each of them supplying one bank of cylinders. Thanks to their variable turbine geometry, the full flow of exhaust gas always passes through the turbine, so the chargers respond slickly - even at low engine speeds - and operate very efficiently.
The two turbochargers, which generate up to 2.6 bar of boost pressure, play a crucial role in producing the huge torque of 1,000 Nm (737.56 lb-ft) that the V12 TDI maintains from 1,750 rpm to 3,000 rpm. In developing 368 kW (500 hp), the diesel achieves a specific output of 62.0 kW (84.3 hp) per liter displacement.
Two large intercoolers reduce the temperature of the compressed air. The V12 has a twin-pipe exhaust system with two particulate filters. The intake system is similar in structure with one air cleaner per cylinder bank, with an airflow meter behind it. Two control units, sharing the workload in a master/slave principle, manage events in the engine.
The Audi R8 V12 TDI concept already fulfills the Euro 6 emissions standard that is likely to take effect in 2014 and calls for sharply reduced nitrogen oxides. By also designing in ultra-precise fuel metering by the common rail system, Audi's engineers have made full use of current clean diesel technology.
The heart of the system is a special catalytic converter downstream of the oxidizing catalyst and the particulate filter. The second component in the system is an additional tank containing an aqueous urea solution. Small quantities of the solution, known as "AdBlue," are injected into the exhaust system. The hot exhaust gases break the solution down to form ammonia that splits the nitric oxides into nitrogen and water. The system remains effective for the entire service life of the vehicle.
The dynamic character of a sports car depends not just on its performance and torque; the transmission ratios have to be right too. In keeping with the character of a high-performance sports car with unbeatable torque potential, the transmission in the R8 V12 TDI has six manually operated gears.
The manual transmission is very compact in design. Together with the smalldiameter double-plate clutch, this means it can be installed low down. The manual transmission has very short shift travel and utterly precise guiding of the shifter into the open gear lever gate. It is made from polished aluminum, has an agreeable feel and exquisite sports car looks.
Such a high-performance Audi also has quattro permanent all-wheel drive. In the case of this mid-engine sports car, power is distributed variably between the front and rear wheels from a starting ratio of 40:60 to optimize the handling.

The Design
The R8 V12 TDI concept with matt "Grace Silver" bodywork looks even wider and more resolute than the core model. It shows its potential through its muscular proportions, accentuated wheel arches and even larger air apertures. The rhombuspattern cover on the air inlets and outlets is the hallmark of Audi's sporty top models and a familiar feature of the current RS generation.
Typical of the side view of the R8 is the sideblade. Much wider in the bottom third, it visually accentuates the engine's position as well as acting as an enlarged air deflector.
The continuous aluminum spoiler lip that connects the front and rear diffusers with side air baffles below the enlarged sills also pays tribute to this version's highly developed dynamic talents.
And yet the R8 is unmistakable for its powerful, elegant basic proportions. The selective but always precise use of lines is another typical Audi characteristic, as is the curved arc of the roof. One new aspect is the glass roof of the passenger compartment with two large transparent sections. These, together with the glazed engine compartment behind, create a radically new formal element. The unmistakable NACA duct in the middle of the roof is a functional detail that is normally reserved for racing cars. Its ingenious shape accelerates the air drawn in here for the two cylinder banks of the V12 TDI engine.
The V12 TDI is displayed as the beating heart of this sports car, like a work of art inside a large showcase. Its look, underscored by the air deflectors located beneath the restyled rear glass lid, differs clearly from its production counterpart. The engine can even be seen after dark, when white light-emitting diodes illuminate the engine compartment - as on the production R8 version. This "showroom" can additionally be fully lined in genuine carbon fiber, for a particularly exclusive The continuous line running from the front apron across the wheel arches and flanks to the tail end, then back down the other side, is one of the latest design hallmarks of the Audi brand. This "loop" naturally encompasses the air apertures, the headlights and the taillights.

Unmistakable Face by Day and Night
The passion expressed through the elaborate design of the lights is another typical Audi trait. Nor is anyone likely to overlook this Audi sports car from behind: the LED taillights have a three-dimensional look that can't be missed.
But the absolute highlight is the all-LED headlights of the study vehicle. With their lenses and reflectors, not only do these innovative light sources have a ground-breaking appearance, they also have an enormous functional advantage: LED light, with its color temperature of 6,000 Kelvin, resembles daylight much more closely than xenon or even halogen light. Better light means the driver will have much less fatigue when driving at night.

Audi R8 V10 5.2 FSI quattro (2010)

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Audi R8 V10 5.2 FSI quattro is the next variant of its top-of-the-line model. With the Audi R8, the brand has established itself at the forefront of high-end sports cars from the very start - and now comes the Audi 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 Audi R8 V10 takes pole position against the competition.
The Audi 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 Audi R8 GT3 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 V10 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 Audi 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 Audi R8 V10 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 Audi 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 Audi 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 Audi 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 Audi R8 V10 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 Audi R8 V10 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 Audi 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 Audi 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 Audi 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 Audi 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 Audi 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 V10 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 Audi R8 V10.
The Audi R8 V10 5.2 FSI quattro will be rolled out in Germany in the second quarter of 2009 at a basic price of EUR 142,400.

Mercedes-Benz SLR Stirling Moss (2009)

With the SLR Stirling Moss 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 Mercedes-Benz 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 during the 1950s.

The exclusive Mercedes-Benz 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 Mercedes-Benz 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 and the Targa Florio as well as the Tourist Trophy. It was driven by the stars of the time: Juan Manual 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 Mercedes-Benz 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.

Whilst the 300 SLR earned its spurs on racing circuits the world over, the new member of the SLR family is not designed for the racetrack. Although it sets new standards in terms of technology, performance and excitement - just like its forebears - it is aimed at individuals who have exquisite requirements and nurture very special dreams.
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 spartan, 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 Mercedes-Benz 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 SLR Stirling 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 Mercedes-Benz 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 Mercedes-Benz SLR Stirling Moss, its entire bodywork made of fine lightweight carbon fibre, represents a stand-alone design concept. Whilst the Mercedes-Benz designers were working on the body of the new SLR Stirling 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 SLR racing cars from the 1950s, whose design idiom still never fails to impress to this day.
The Mercedes-Benz 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 Mercedes-Benz 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 Mercedes-Benz 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 Mercedes-Benz 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 Mercedes-Benz SLR Stirling Moss is the kind of high-calibre speedster coveted by the sporting gentry and enthusiasts alike. At the same time it is a collector's item which 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.

Porsche 911 GT3 (2010)

The new Porsche 911 GT3 is the latest evolution of an iconic sports car. Embodying the essence of more than 23,000 Porsche racing victories, the 911 GT3 is the ultimate integration of driver and car and arrives in the UK this autumn.
In developing the second generation of the Type 997 911 GT3 into the most sporting and dynamic road-going 911 ever with a naturally-aspirated power unit, Porsche has applied a wide range of know-how gained in motor sport. Indeed, this is precisely why the new Porsche 911 GT3 is truly impressive not only on the road, but also on the race track.
The Porsche 911 GT3 offers an even higher standard above all in two key areas: performance and driving dynamics. The proven six-cylinder naturally aspirated power unit now develops a maximum output of 435 hp (320 kW), up 20 hp over its predecessor. This results first and foremost from an increase in engine capacity by 200 cc to 3.8-litres and from improved cylinder head gas flow: now not only the intake, but for the first time also the exhaust camshafts, are adjusted by VarioCam.
A further important point is that, through its upgraded power and performance, the flat six 'boxer' engine also offers a significant increase in torque at medium engine speeds, a benefit of particular significance in everyday motoring. Clearly, this also means a further improvement in performance; the new Porsche 911 GT3 accelerates from a standstill to 62 mph (100 km/h) in 4.1 seconds and reaches 99 mph (160 km/h) in 8.2 seconds. Top speed is 194 mph.
The second emphasis in developing the Porsche 911 GT3 to an even higher standard was to further improve the car's driving dynamics. For the first time, the Porsche 911 GT3 comes with a particularly sporting variant of Porsche Stability Management (PSM), offering the facility to deactivate both Stability Control (SC) and Traction Control (TC) in separate steps. And to give the driver unrestricted, individual control over the driving dynamics of his car, these functions are not reactivated automatically even under the most extreme driving conditions, but only at the touch of a button.
The new Porsche 911 GT3 offers increased grip and stability at high speeds, courtesy of specific modifications to the car's aerodynamics which have increased downforce front and rear to such an extent that the overall air pressure pushing down on the car is more than twice as great as on the former model. At the same time, the new 'Aerodynamics Package' gives the Porsche 911 GT3 a distinctive appearance which is further accentuated by new Bi-Xenon headlights, LED rear light clusters, and modified air intakes and outlets.
The Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) fitted to the 911 GT3 has enabled Porsche engineers to make the springs and anti-roll bars stiffer yet again, thus ensuring even more precise handling in the PASM 'sports' mode. However, the PASM ensures appropriate ride comfort suitable for everyday use when in the 'normal' PASM mode. The Porsche 911 GT3 rides on new, lighter wheels in a racing-inspired design - with a centre locking nut - fitted with ultra-high performance (UHP) tyres. Tyre pressure monitoring is fitted as standard.
With driving dynamics and performance increasing to an even higher level, following Porsche tradition the braking system has also been enhanced accordingly on the new 911 GT3. The brakes now feature larger friction discs and an aluminium cover to reduce un-sprung weight further still. Brake ventilation has been improved, which guarantees a higher level of consistent stopping power over long periods. As an option, the Porsche 911 GT3 comes as before with an exclusive version of the Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes (PCCB) made specifically for this model.
Making the car even more suitable for the race track, the new Porsche 911 GT3 will be available with the option of new and highly innovative Porsche Active Drivetrain Mount (PADM) engine mountings. These special engine mounts recognise a particularly sporting, race-like style of driving, making the normally 'elastic' engine mounts harder and particularly resistant. This retains all the motoring comfort of the GT3 in everyday traffic, while on the race track the effect of the mass forces coming from the engine is much reduced, particularly in fast bends and on winding tracks. Yet a further advantage is improved traction when accelerating from a standstill.
Another new feature is the optional lift system for the front axle which is able to increase the ground clearance of the car, at the touch of a button, for driving on bumpy surfaces or steep gradients - for example into an underground garage - by 30 millimetres (approx 1.2 inches).
The new Porsche 911 GT3 goes on sale in the United Kingdom and Ireland from autumn 2009, priced from £81,914. Further specifications and technical details will be confirmed nearer to launch.
Fitted to every 911 GT3 is a Porsche Vehicle Tracking System (VTS), a sophisticated vehicle security package approved to Thatcham Category 5 standard, and customers will also be able to explore the potential of their new car by participating in a complimentary course at the new Porsche Driving Experience Centre, Silverstone.