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Motor Authority - blog Tag: Paris Auto Show

  • Production BMW 7-series hybrid headed to Frankfurt Motor Show?

    Production BMW 7-series hybrid headed to Frankfurt Motor Show? April 30th, 2009 By Viknesh Vijayenthiran Viknesh Vijayenthiran, Author, April 30th, 2009 Viknesh Vijayenthiran 5 Comments

    Production BMW 7-series hybrid headed to Frankfurt Motor Show? Hybrid drive systems are finally making solid inroads into the upper strata of the luxury sedan segment, with BMW's 7-series hybrid set to join the Mercedes-Benz S400 and Lexus LS 600hL later this year. The new 7-series hybrid was previewed as a concept at last year's Paris Motor Show, and since then we have kept you up to date with the latest spy photos of the car, eventually catching it completely free of disguise. But now word of a final production reveal has emerged.

    Reports of the car's production debut at this year's Frankfurt Motor Show, sourced from the French L'Automobile, say that the car will be available for sale shortly... Hybrid drive systems are finally making solid inroads into the upper strata of the luxury sedan segment, with BMW's 7-series hybrid set to join the Mercedes-Benz S400 and Lexus LS 600hL later this year. The new 7-series hybrid was previewed as a concept at last year's Paris Motor Show, and since then we have kept you up to date with the latest spy photos of the car, eventually catching it completely free of disguise. But now word of a final production reveal has emerged. Reports of the car's production debut at this year's Frankfurt Motor Show, sourced from the French L'Automobile, say that the car will be available for sale shortly afterward, hitting its mark for a late 2009 retail debut. Previous reports had pegged the date as late 2009 or possibly early 2010. The 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show will run from September 17-27, but the car will likely be revealed during the press days of September 15-16. Mercedes released the first details for its S400 BlueHYBRID late last year, and confirmed the car for a mid-2009 launch date, putting it a half-step ahead of the 7-series, which will have to work hard to catch up, though their powertrains are quite different and could snatch different segments of the market. While Mercedes’ S400 BlueHYBRID features an electric drive system mated to a 3.5L V6 powerplant, BMW’s new Concept 7-Series ActiveHybrid is based around the 4.4L V8 750i model. The concept car features the standard 407hp (303kW) and 442lb-ft (600Nm) V8 powerplant mated to a 20hp (15kW) and 155lb-ft (210Nm) electric motor. Other standard hybrid features, such as regenerative braking, automatic stop-start and optimized aerodynamics, are also present on the 7-series ActiveHybrid concept, and are expected to show on the final car as well. Compared with the non-hybrid model, the new ActiveHybrid is said to improve fuel-economy by up to 15%. Mercedes, meanwhile, claims that its S400 BlueHYBRID runs 21% more efficiently than the standard S350. Both cars will feature lithium-ion battery systems, though Mercedes is planning to be the first carmaker in the world to market with such a system in a mass-produced vehicle. The new 7-series hybrid will feature BMW’s version of the modular two-mode hybrid system jointly developed with Daimler, Chrysler and General Motors. The system features a pair of electric motors located within the transmission and can provide electric only drive at low speeds or act as a performance booster at high load.BMW 7-series ActiveHybridSpy shots: BMW 7-series hybrid2009 BMW 7-series The latest in high performance car news. // By use of this code snippet, I agree to the Brightcove Publisher T and C // found at http://corp.brightcove.com/legal/terms_publisher.cfm. var config = new Array(); /* * feel free to edit these configurations * to modify the player experience */ config["videoId"] = null; //the default video loaded into the player config["videoRef"] = null; //the default video loaded into the player by ref id specified in console config["lineupId"] = null; //the default lineup loaded into the player config["playerTag"] = null; //player tag used for identifying this page in brightcove reporting config["autoStart"] = false; //tells the player to start playing video on load config["preloadBackColor"] = "#FFFFFF"; //background color while loading the player /* do not edit these config items */ config["playerId"] = 1801874903; config["width"] = 510; config["height"] = 550; createExperience(config, 8); Read More

  • Audi's new TT-RS will hit 100km/h in just 4.6s

    Audi's new TT-RS will hit 100km/h in just 4.6s March 3rd, 2009 ByJeremy Weber Jeremy Weber, Author, March 3rd, 2009 Jeremy Weber 8 Comments

    Audi's new TT-RS will hit 100km/h in just 4.6s Last year we saw Audi take the wraps off several variants of its sporty TT, with the unveiling of the TT-S, 2.0L TDI diesel-powered TT, and finally, the entry-level 1.8L TFSI model. However, there’s one more TT variant in the works and it could potentially be the fastest production TT ever. The new variant is the performance RS version of the TT, which has officially been revealed ahead of its world debut at the Geneva Motor Show next week.

    Simply called the TT-RS, the latest model sees the return of an Audi five-cylinder powerhouse as well as the introduction of a host of other features. The new 2.5L petrol engine delivers a stunning... Last year we saw Audi take the wraps off several variants of its sporty TT, with the unveiling of the TT-S, 2.0L TDI diesel-powered TT, and finally, the entry-level 1.8L TFSI model. However, there’s one more TT variant in the works and it could potentially be the fastest production TT ever. The new variant is the performance RS version of the TT, which has officially been revealed ahead of its world debut at the Geneva Motor Show next week. Simply called the TT-RS, the latest model sees the return of an Audi five-cylinder powerhouse as well as the introduction of a host of other features. The new 2.5L petrol engine delivers a stunning 340hp (250kW) and features both direct-injection and turbocharging technologies. This will see it accelerate from 0-100km/h in just 4.6s for the coupe and 4.7s for the roadster, and easily reach an electronically controlled top speed of 155mph. The top speed can be raised to 174mph if you pay Audi extra to remove the limiter. Audi’s turbo engines are renowned for their relatively flat torque curves, and this one is no different. It generates 450Nm from 1,600rpm to 5,300rpm and should deliver easily accessible performance. All models are fitted with a six-speed manual and ventilated disc brakes with black four-piston aluminium callipers and diameters of 370mm at the front and 310mm at the rear One RS trademark that has made it to the TT-RS is the addition of the sport button, which alters throttle response and also opens a flap in the left exhaust tailpipe to increase the rumble. The standard electronic stability software has been replaced with a more sporty version that is more forgiving to sideways action and can also be switched off completely for maximum fun. Other RS specifics include a quattro permanent AWD system, a sophisticated electronic chassis and suspension management system, a fixed rear wing as opposed to the adjustable spoiler found on more mundane TT models, 18in aluminum wheels, twin-exit oval exhaust pipes. If you really don’t like the fixed wing, Audi also gives you the option for a more discreet foldaway version. Both a new TT-RS Coupe and Roadster will be available at launch, with the first cars scheduled to hit showrooms in Europe by the middle of the year.2010 Audi TT-RS2010 Audi TT-RS Read More

  • Volvo adds four more cars to efficient DRIVe lineup in Geneva

    Volvo adds four more cars to efficient DRIVe lineup in Geneva February 24th, 2009 By Nelson Ireson Nelson Ireson, Author, February 24th, 2009 Nelson Ireson 1 Comment

    Volvo adds four more cars to efficient DRIVe lineup in Geneva Slashing the cost of ownership is a good strategy in today's car market, especially in Europe where emissions taxes are a large part of the yearly expense. Volvo's DRIVe line of cars, expanded with four more models today, is therefore not just smart in an environmental sense, but a business sense as well. The four new cars are the V70, S80, XC60 and XC70.

    The first three cars in the DRIVe line, the C30, S40, and V50, were all designed to register below 120g/km CO2, and in fact all slipped in at 107g/km or lower - all about the same as a typical Toyota Prius. The four new additions add two more tiers of efficiency, with 140g/km and 160g/km... Slashing the cost of ownership is a good strategy in today's car market, especially in Europe where emissions taxes are a large part of the yearly expense. Volvo's DRIVe line of cars, expanded with four more models today, is therefore not just smart in an environmental sense, but a business sense as well. The four new cars are the V70, S80, XC60 and XC70. The first three cars in the DRIVe line, the C30, S40, and V50, were all designed to register below 120g/km CO2, and in fact all slipped in at 107g/km or lower - all about the same as a typical Toyota Prius. The four new additions add two more tiers of efficiency, with 140g/km and 160g/km as their goals. This allows room for larger cars while still retaining a legitimately green (and cost-saving) image. The V70 and S80 both rate at 129g/km, while the XC60 and XC70 rate 159g/km, just squeaking in below their 160g/km target. To help get these low figures, the V70 and S80 get 1.6L diesels, while the XC60 and XC70 are offered with FWD powertrains. Those emissions figures translate into very respectable fuel economy as well: the V70 and S80 DRIVe models get 48mpg US (4.9L/100km) while the XC60 and XC70 rate 39.2mpg US (6.0L/100km). Like their DRIVe predecessors, the new models get these high figures through a combination of a wide range of technologies. Some of the trick and techniques include taller gear ratios, start-stop function (only on the C30, S40 and V50), regenerative battery charging, and improved aerodynamics. Mercedes and BMW have done similar things with their BlueEfficiency and EfficientDynamics lines, while GM offers its XFE line with many of the same modifications.Volvo DRIVe Concepts Read More

  • Facelifted Mazda MX-5 makes Japanese debut

    Facelifted Mazda MX-5 makes Japanese debut December 9th, 2008 ByKenneth Hall Kenneth Hall, Author, December 9th, 2008 Kenneth Hall 12 Comments

    Facelifted Mazda MX-5 makes Japanese debut Following a number of leaks of images and details, Mazda finally released official information for its facelifted MX-5 (Miata) range in October, when the car made its world debut at the Paris Motor Show. For the facelift, both the exterior and interior has been given a revamp, as has the car’s engine lineup, which now has a 500rpm higher rev limit. Today Mazda released the car, known in its home market as the Roadster, for sale in Japan, the first market to get the updated car.

    The 2010 model lineup can be distinguished by a new front-end design, revised side sills, and a new rear bumper. The character hump in the hood remains, as... Following a number of leaks of images and details, Mazda finally released official information for its facelifted MX-5 (Miata) range in October, when the car made its world debut at the Paris Motor Show. For the facelift, both the exterior and interior has been given a revamp, as has the car’s engine lineup, which now has a 500rpm higher rev limit. Today Mazda released the car, known in its home market as the Roadster, for sale in Japan, the first market to get the updated car. The 2010 model lineup can be distinguished by a new front-end design, revised side sills, and a new rear bumper. The character hump in the hood remains, as does the fender flares that give the barest of nods to the RX8’s design. A tweaked mesh grille is also more reminiscent of the Mazdaspeed3 (MPS) than previous designs, as is the new lower intake. Inside, the car's design is very much like the current model's with only minor stylistic updates such as the dark silver trim, new instrument panel, and new Recaro seats on select models. The car is also available with newly designed 16in and 17in aluminum wheels. The 16in wheels have five sets of twin spokes, while the 17in wheels have 10 twisted spokes. New exterior color options include Aluminum, Metropolitan Grey and Sunflower Yellow. Changes to the car’s powerplant range include the introduction of a forged crankshaft, fully floating pistons and newly designed valve springs. The rev limit for the 2.0L manual model now registers at 7,500rpm, with peak output of 160hp (118kW) 188Nm coming at 7,000rpm. The six-speed manual gearbox has also been upgraded with new carbon-coated synchronizer for improved shift-feel. A lower front roll center and retuned suspension make the car’s response to steering inputs more linear and enable the driver to precisely trace desired lines. A key refinement was made to the front suspension knuckles. The ball joints’ vertical pivot position was changed to reduce the height of the front roll center by 26mm. This decreased fluctuations in the vertical loading on the outer wheel during cornering maneuvres. The new range will go on sale in Europe in the first half of next year and is expected to arrive in North America shortly after for the 2010 model year.2010 Mazda MX-5 facelift Read More

  • GM reveals official interior shot of 2011 Chevrolet Volt

    GM reveals official interior shot of 2011 Chevrolet Volt November 14th, 2008 By Viknesh Vijayenthiran Viknesh Vijayenthiran, Author, November 14th, 2008 Viknesh Vijayenthiran 26 Comments

    GM reveals official interior shot of 2011 Chevrolet Volt General Motors revealed the production version of the 2011 Chevrolet Volt this September as the highlight of its centennial celebration, but until now no official photos of the interior have been released. Today the company revealed what the car will look like to its occupants, and though the vast majority of details have remained the same as earlier photos indicated, there have been some changes.

    The primary differences in the new official photo of the interior, when compared to the pre-production interior in the car shown at the official unveiling, and then a week later at the 2009 GM Collection Event in Dallas, TX, include a redesigned... General Motors revealed the production version of the 2011 Chevrolet Volt this September as the highlight of its centennial celebration, but until now no official photos of the interior have been released. Today the company revealed what the car will look like to its occupants, and though the vast majority of details have remained the same as earlier photos indicated, there have been some changes. The primary differences in the new official photo of the interior, when compared to the pre-production interior in the car shown at the official unveiling, and then a week later at the 2009 GM Collection Event in Dallas, TX, include a redesigned cupholder area, a new shape and trim for the gear selector, redesigned switch layouts on the center stack, and reshaped vents on either side of the nav screen/computer area. All of the iPod-like design quality and futuristic features appear to remain intact, but there is now much doubt over the future of GM and whether the company will even be around in late 2010 to produce the car. GM insists it will find a way through, however, and looking back just two months, there was a great deal of optimism wrapped up in the Volt. Speaking at the unveiling of the Volt in September, GM CEO Rick Wagoner said, "Revealing the production version of the Chevy Volt is a great way to open our second century. The Volt is symbolic of GM's strong commitment to the future ... just the kind of technology innovation that our industry needs to respond to today's and tomorrow's energy and environmental challenges." As the Volt is still in development, its specifications could easily change before its expected sales release in late 2010. Nevertheless, GM has revealed the spec sheet as it currently stands. The five-door four-seater will be capable of up to 100mph (160km/h) top speed and can cover 40mi (64km) of the EPA's city cycle on electric power alone, earning it the name Extended-Range Electric Vehicle in GM parlance. To get that range it uses a 16kWh lithium-ion battery pack in the form of a 'T', plus a 150hp (111kW) electric motor that delivers 273lb-ft (370Nm) of torque at all speeds. Charging the battery is accomplished by plugging it into either a 120v or 240v wall outlet. The more potent 240v outlet can charge the car in just three hours, while the more common 120v outlet will take eight hours to fully charge the system. At ten cents ($0.10) per kWh, GM figures that's 80 cents per day for 40mi of all-electric driving. That estimated cost of about two cents per mile compares favorably to 12 cents per mile using gasoline priced at $3.60 per gallon. The design of the production Volt has evolved from the original concept that was unveiled at the 2007 Detroit Auto Show. Gone is the wide hulking stance and chiseled looks of the concept, replaced by a much sleeker and more conventional sedan body. Underpinning the body is a combination of McPherson independent strut front suspension, a compound crank twist axle rear suspension, four-wheel disc brakes, full regenerative brakes to maximize energy capture, and electric power-assist steering. Because fuel-economy was one of the major constraints for designers, aerodynamics has played a key role in the car’s final look. The Volt's rounded and flush front fascia, tapered corners and grille are functional, enabling air to move easily around the car. In the rear, sharp edges and a carefully designed spoiler allow the air to flow off and away quickly. An aggressive rake on the windshield and back glass help reduce turbulence and drag. Its dimensions, however, aren't tiny. A 105.7in (2,685mm) wheelbase and 70.8in (1,798mm) width offer mid-size sedan cargo space of 10.6 cu. ft. (301L) while the 177in (4,404mm) overall length reflects the car's short overhangs and the relatively low 56.3in (1,430mm) overall height helps it squeeze through the air. This design was essential in meeting GM’s original goal of having an electric-only driving range of 40 miles. This means that Volt owners who drive less than 40 miles on a daily basis will have no need to ever purchase fuel again. That amounts to a savings of about 500 gallons of fuel for a commuter that stays within the Volt's 40mi electric-only range each day. At an average price of $3.60/gallon, that's a yearly savings of $1,800. Commuters with a 60mi (96km) radius could save up to 550 gallons, or $1,980 per year. The Volt is expected to be built at GM's Detroit-Hamtramck manufacturing facility, subject to officials successfully negotiating satisfactory government incentives. Production is scheduled to begin late 2010 for models in the United States. var so = new FlashObject ("http://natalie.feedroom.com/gm/natoneclip/Player.swf", "Player", "320", "240", "8", "#000000");so.addVariable("skin", "natoneclip");so.addVariable("site", "gm");so.addVariable("fr_story", "076dc918b73689c38165de9cca933699ce3ee3b9");so.addVariable("hostURL","document.location.href");so.addParam("menu", "false");so.addParam("quality","high");so.addParam("allowFullScreen","true");so.addParam("allowScriptAccess","always");so.write("flashcontent"); var so = new FlashObject ("http://natalie.feedroom.com/gm/natoneclip/Player.swf", "Player", "320", "240", "8", "#000000");so.addVariable("skin", "natoneclip");so.addVariable("site", "gm");so.addVariable("fr_story", "0b270d79f9a8ba3e6162d3a66c510408bfe131b6");so.addVariable("hostURL","document.location.href");so.addParam("menu", "false");so.addParam("quality","high");so.addParam("allowFullScreen","true");so.addParam("allowScriptAccess","always");so.write("flashcontent");2011 Chevrolet Volt Production model2011 Chevrolet Volt at GM 2009 Collection event Read More

  • Brabus Smart ForTwo confirmed for U.S.

    Brabus Smart ForTwo confirmed for U.S. October 23rd, 2008 ByAlex Kaufmann Alex Kaufmann, Author, October 23rd, 2008 Alex Kaufmann 7 Comments

    Brabus Smart ForTwo confirmed for U.S. The Smart ForTwo has proven to be a runaway success for Mercedes Benz in the United States, with the official distributor Penske Automotive Group forced to boost sales forecasts for the diminutive hatch earlier this year. The company now plans to capitalize on the soaring demand by expanding the lineup with a new Brabus-enhanced model.

    Brabus is a specialist when it comes to drawing more power from Mercedes Benz vehicles, laying claim to the title of manufacturing the world’s fastest saloon on several occasions with its V12-powered Bullit line of cars. However, when the Brabus Smart ForTwo goes on sale in the U.S. next February it... The Smart ForTwo has proven to be a runaway success for Mercedes Benz in the United States, with the official distributor Penske Automotive Group forced to boost sales forecasts for the diminutive hatch earlier this year. The company now plans to capitalize on the soaring demand by expanding the lineup with a new Brabus-enhanced model. Brabus is a specialist when it comes to drawing more power from Mercedes Benz vehicles, laying claim to the title of manufacturing the world’s fastest saloon on several occasions with its V12-powered Bullit line of cars. However, when the Brabus Smart ForTwo goes on sale in the U.S. next February it will only come equipped with a custom bodykit and alloy wheels. In other markets the Brabus Smart ForTwo comes with a 98hp (73kW) output and a 0-100km/h time of 9.9 seconds – 3 seconds faster than the standard model. For those U.S. customers who have already reserved a ForTwo, Smart will offer them the chance to upgrade to the Brabus model first. Only 1,500 models will make their way Stateside. The deal is available for customers who have not selected the specs for their cars, and will begin from Thursday October 23. The U.S. market will soon play a bigger role in the future of Smart, with the company planning to start official testing of an all-electric version locally at the start of next year. If the tests prove successful, Smart says the zero-emissions vehicle could enter production very quickly.Brabus Smart ForTwo 2008 Read More

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