Showing posts with label Hennessey. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Hennessey. Show all posts

Friday, September 2, 2011

Audi S6 Avant

Athletic character, quiet understatement and richly appointed - Audi is remaking the Audi S6 and S6 Avant. Both models are sports cars for everyday use, offering uncompromising practicality. Their new engine, a four-liter, twin-turbo V8, combines ample power with low fuel consumption in keeping with the times.
Drive
The Audi S6 and S6 Avant use the 309 kW (420 hp) version of the new 4.0 TFSI. The twin-turbo V8 provides a constant 550 Nm (405.66 lb-ft) of torque from 1,400 to 5,300 rpm. It accelerates the S6 from 0 to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 4.8 seconds and the S6 Avant in 4.9 seconds. With both models, the electronically governed top speed of 250 km/h (155.34 mph) is just a formality.

The 4.0 TFSI brings Audi's downsizing strategy to the high-performance class. Compared to the engine in the previous model, the free-breathing, 5.2-liter V10, it offers even sportier performance while reducing fuel consumption by as much as 25 percent. Average fuel consumption is just 9.7 liters per 100 km (24.25 US mpg) in the Audi S6 and 9.8 liters (24.0 US mpg) in the Audi S6 Avant, well below that of the competition.
A number of technologies contribute to this top result, including the recuperation and start-stop systems as well as the new "cylinder on demand" cylinder management system. When the V8 deactivates four cylinders under part load, the Active Noise Cancellation system (ANC) is activated. Four microphones integrated into the headlining record the noise in the cabin, which is then analyzed by a computer. If the computer detects intrusive sound elements, it broadcasts an antiphase sound through the speakers of the sound system. This sound combines with the intrusive sound and largely cancels it out.

Tuesday, August 16, 2011

Mazda MX-5 Miata Special Edition

On the heels of its recent milestone announcement of 900,000 MX-5 Miatas being produced, Mazda North American Operations (MNAO) unveiled the 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata Special Edition, a limited-run model of only 750 units. The Special Edition continues the MX-5's history of being a dynamically-engineered, enthusiast-approved roadster whose price doesn't discriminate and whose luxuries are not stripped.
Special Edition-exclusive interior touches include gray door trim and heated leather seats with gray stitching, a black leather-wrapped parking brake and steering wheel with contrasting gray stitching, chrome treatments to the air vents and instrument cluster as well as aluminum pedals (6MT only). Special Edition models are only available in Sparkling Black Mica or Dolphin Gray Mica, two new MX-5 colors, and are packaged with 17-inch Bright Finish aluminum alloy wheels.



The MX-5 traditionally has appealed to higher income households as its purchase reason is not as the practical daily driver but as the additional "fun" car, such as for those long, winding road-hunting weekends. Originally available in three trim levels - Sport, Touring and Grand Touring - the Special Edition is based off of a fully-equipped Grand Touring model but is only available with the industry-leading, easy-to-use Power Retractable Hard Top (PRHT).
Popular in both warm and winter climates, PRHT models go from rain-deflector to sun-worshipper in 12 seconds - with trunk space to boot - and outsell soft tops 4:1 worldwide. In the United States, there also is no lack of interest for premium accessories as 70 percent of Grand Touring models sold are PRHT-equipped, of which 50 percent are optioned with the Premium Package. The Premium Package is standard on the Special Edition and includes a Bluetooth® hands-free phone system, SIRIUS® Satellite Radio with a six-month complimentary subscription, Xenon headlights, Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) with a Traction Control System (TCS), an anti-theft alarm and the Mazda Advanced Keyless Entry and Start System.
It is no secret that on any given weekend more Mazdas and Mazda-powered vehicles are road-raced than any other brand. Performance and tuning are dynamically engineered into every Mazda and the MX-5 Miata Special Edition retains its sports car soul but with a few niceties not meant for the bumper-to-bumper love taps of the track.
The Suspension Package, optional on Touring and Grand Touring models, is made standard with the Special Edition and includes Bilstein® shocks, a limited slip differential (LSD) and a sport-tuned suspension. Both the six-speed manual transmission with short-throw shifter and six-speed Sport automatic with steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters are available to enjoy the 167-horsepower, 140 lb-ft of torque 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine (158 horsepower with the 6AT). At only 2,593 pounds (2,619 pounds for the 6AT), the MX-5's nearly 50:50 weight distribution, combined with its track-proven suspension and responsive power, mean the rear-wheel drive sports car is a lightweight only in terms of size, not road prowess.
The 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata Special Edition starts at $30,925 for the manual transmission, and $31,525 when equipped with the six-speed Sport AT automatic.

Wednesday, August 10, 2011

Hyundai Blue2 Concept

At the 2011 Seoul Motor Show Hyundai Motor staged a world premiere of the Hyundai Blue2 concept car (codenamed HND-6), a mid-size FCEV which shows a blueprint for future sedans. The name 'Blue2' is a combination of Hyundai's sub eco-brand 'Blue Drive' and the number `2' from H2, the symbol for hydrogen gas.

Aiming at gaining early leadership of the FCEV market, Hyundai Blue2 concept is powered by a fuel cell electric system that delivers a stack power of 90kW (1.65kW/L) and fuel economy of 34.9km/l. The Blue2 is materialized in a sporty and luxurious style, a combination of futuristic, flowing designs and eco-friendly features. The Hyundai Blue2 concept is equipped with low-resistance tires and alloy wheels which are designed to improve aerodynamic performance, while the car's interior design encompasses a futuristic look by using eco-friendly new materials.
Hyundai's concept keywords for the exterior design are 'Intersected Flow,' featuring innovative and dynamic designs. The vehicle's condition is visible via unique and futuristic images on the exterior of the car through outside LED screen panels, which are located on both the front and rear of the car. Blue2 also features a welcome system which recognizes the driver, while an automatic opening door system enhances the driver's convenience. Conventional side mirrors are replaced by side cameras and a roof camera, offering a state-of-the-art driving environment.


The exterior designs flow inside the vehicle, with asymmetrically-designed dashboards and doors to optimize a driver's convenience and add emotional value. Wider seats enable people to get in and out of the vehicle more comfortably.
Hyundai combined the cluster and center fascia, applying an advanced Transparent Organic Light Emitting Diode (TOLED) monitor and ultra-light tempered glass, called Gorilla® Glass, providing more accurate and vivid graphic information. The infotainment system is operated by a Motion Sensor Moustick, a haptic wheel and motion sensor that respond to the driver's touch and hand movements, respectively, giving drivers a new experience.

Hyundai Blue2 concept aims to satisfy all the senses of future drivers, including the air they breathe: A cluster ionizer freshens the air inside the vehicle, while antibacterial genuine leather with leaf-shaped patterns, called 'eco-graphic perforation,' enhances an eco-friendly look and feel.

Sunday, July 31, 2011

BMW X3 xDrive35i

In this 2011 BMW car manufacturer officially launched a new variant was named BMW X3 xDrive35i with six-cylinder inline engine gasoline. This variant is included in the class of SUVs (sports utility vehicle). Meanwhile, another variant is the BMW X3 xDrive20d engined four cylinder in line diesel.
By all appearances, this second generation of the BMW X3 comes with urban-style body design elegant and the view that gagah.BMW X3 xDrive uses a capacity of 3000 cc engine that can generate power to 306 hp at 58.00 rpm and maximum torque of 400 Nm at engine speed between 1200 and 5000 rpm.
While the BMW X3 xDrive20d using turbo four-cylinder diesel engine in line with a capacity of 2,000 cc which is made of aluminum and equipped with common rail direct injection. This machine is capable of spraying power up to 184 hp at 4,000 rpm rotation and a maximum torque of 380 nm in 1750 and 2,750 rpm.

Fresh from the redesign of the exterior and a good stretch, 2011 BMW X3 xDrive35i looks more bold and offer more space for people and goods. Yet deep inside an off-camber switchback mountain, it is to convince you That it's just a tall sports sedan. And no longer hits the contents of your loose to PROVE it.
As before, the standard all-wheel drive ensures That the 2011 BMW X3 xDrive35i earnest climb up the forest road with the first chairlift or the trailhead with ease - even if the most Difficult labor involved only draw Some Sea-Doos or Transporting a distance from Some Banana Republic for road construction.
But the 2011 BMW X3 xDrive35i driving every day cans be annoying, slow throttle response interfere with low-speed character in city driving. The Acura RDX, Audi Q5, Infiniti EX35 and Mercedes-Benz GLK350 all offer a more direct connection to the drivetrain and performance, making it more intuitive.
Given an open road and heads began to roll, but the BMW X3 Gives an exhilarating rush head.

BMW i3 Concept

The BMW i3 Concept is an uncompromisingly sustainable vehicle designed for urban areas. Driven purely by electric power and purpose-built to meet the demands of sustainable and emission-free mobility, it embodies an intelligent form of urban transportation and commuting.
"This automotive concept uses a new architecture which showcases all of its new possibilities and potential. It is the world's first premium electric vehicle." - Andreas Feist, Head of vehicle project BMW i3.
The BMW i3 is a well-resolved all-round concept, with every detail conceived and optimised to fulfil its eventual purpose. Central to its design is the innovative LifeDrive architecture, the key to the BMW i3 Concept's appeal as a light, safe and spacious car. Innovative use of materials and intelligent lightweight design not only enable the i3 Concept to travel long distances on a single charge and provide superb safety in the event of a collision, they also help give the car its excellent driving dynamics. The secure arrangement of the battery in the Drive module gives the vehicle a very low centre of gravity and optimum weight distribution. The electric motor over the rear axle - which generates output of 125 kW/170 hp and impressive torque of 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) from a standstill - and a small turning circle combine to deliver pleasingly crisp driving characteristics and give the driver a very immediate experience of the BMW i3 Concept's lightweight design. The BMW i3 Concept accelerates from 0 to 60 km/h (37 mph) in under four seconds and from rest to 100 km/h (62 mph) in less than eight seconds. The extremely direct sensation at the wheel is expressed in outstanding agility at low speeds and during turning manoeuvres, and makes parking in tricky situations that much easier.


The Life module conjures up a feeling of space inside the car more generous than even the latest conversion vehicles can offer. Select materials lend the open and airy cabin a lounge-like character. The use of renewable raw materials is another defining characteristic of the interior, offering passengers a further means of "experiencing" the sustainability of the vehicle. Elements of the instrument panel and door panelling are visibly made from natural fibres, while the naturally tanned leather of the seats creates a lounge-style ambience. Together, these materials provide an appealing contrast to the clear, "floating" forms of the instrument panel and door elements, and lend the interior a strikingly modern feel. With the drive components located in the Drive module, there is no centre tunnel running through the passenger compartment. This allows the two front and two rear seats to be connected with each other by a continuous seat surface, which allows for ease of entry and exit via the front passenger side of the car and means you can park up close to walls, for example. With four seats, wide-opening opposing "coach" doors, boot capacity of around 200 litres and an additional functional compartment in the front, the BMW i3 Concept is neatly equipped for the demands of everyday use.
However, the electric motor developed by BMW and the optimised lightweight design of the LifeDrive architecture cannot take all the credit for imbuing the car with such efficiency and enabling it to travel such long distances on each charge. Indeed, the ability of the car to recoup energy while on the move and special range-extending functions, such as ECO PRO mode, also add miles to the clock. With ECO PRO mode activated, all the vehicle functions operate with maximum efficiency. For example, the accelerator mapping is tweaked to limit the output summoned when the driver flexes his right foot, and the climate control functions also use as little energy as possible. Added to which, sophisticated aerodynamics and slim, low rolling resistance wheels minimise resistance to the car's forward progress and maximise its range.
Innovative connectivity functions create a seamless connection between the BMW i3 Concept and its customers' lives outside the car. Remote functions accessible via a smartphone enable owners to find their vehicles, flag up nearby charging stations, allow battery charging and preconditioning at the touch of a button and supply information on the current status of the vehicle. Meanwhile, intelligent assistance systems ease the stress on drivers in monotonous city driving situations and allow them to arrive at their destination more safely and in a more relaxed state of mind.

BMW M5 2012

The silly game of the 2012 BMW M5 renderings continues, but this time, the photoshoped images turned out to be very good. Alpina325ci, member of the forum 5post, delivers some impressive images of what the next M5 might look like.
The new 2012 BMW M5 is rumored not to be only one of the most aggressive and the fastest M to date, but to also incorporate plenty of “green technology”, as part of BMW’s future plans and investments in the EfficientDynamics program. BMW plans to use several new technologies and a KERS system that will put the new M5 ahead of the current model, both in performance and fuel efficiency.
With the new model, BMW M Division estimates a 20%


Designed for Performance
The M5’s secret has always been to remain understated and discreet on the outside, but within lies the “beast”. The typical M5 and BMW M aerodynamic features are featured on the car. With the new 5er central grille being much larger, the central intake size has been diminished. Wheel arches are swollen to add some mass on the F10’s athletic body. A side air intake is placed underneath the character line which climaxes at the wheel arch. The side skirts are more sculptured allowing for good aerodynamics.
At the rear-end, the typical quad exhausts remain with a sculpted diffuser and central intake. A small bootlid spoiler allows the car to remain understated and restrained.

Power
The M5 will inherit a dual clutch transmission which will be unique to the M5, based upon the 7-Speed transmission currently found in the M3. 8-Speed unit will also be available and will be equipped with a stop-start control. The DCT will be operated with steering wheel mounted shifting paddles. The new M5, although not from the beginning, will also be available with optional Carbon Fiber brakes.
The 2012 BMW M5 is powered by an updated version of the engine found in the BMW X5 M and X6 M. The 4.4-liter V8 twin-scroll powerplant will peak at 578-horsepower and 530 lb-ft of torque.
The 0-62 mph dash should take about 4.4 seconds, even though we expect to see lower track times.
To keep the weight down, BMW will make extensive use of carbon-fiber and aluminum parts, starting with the a carbon-fiber roof. The car’s construction will be a hybrid of an aluminum spaceframe for the front section and a traditional steel monocoque for the passenger compartment and rear. Up front will be an independent suspension with MacPherson struts, with a multi-link layout for the rear.
The new M5 will make its debut early next year.

Tuesday, July 19, 2011

Mercedes A-Class E-CELL

Recently, Mercedes-Benz introduced the 2011 A-Class E-CELL Electric Car, first launched in 500 units, and will debut at the Paris Motor Show.
In power terms, 2011 A-Class E-CELL is equipped with a electric motor, the maximum output power of 71kw, the maximum torque of 290Nm, the 0-100km / h acceleration time of 14 seconds, top speed of 145km / h ( 90mph). The car uses two lithium-ion battery, it can travel 124 miles when fully charged, and 8 hours can be filled when using home electricity.

Configuration also includes the pre-start temperature control system, custom display, infotainment system, bi-xenon headlights and so on.

Chevrolet Camaro 45th Anniversary Edition

Chevrolet Camaro, America's most popular sports car, extends its momentum with enhancements for the 2012 model year. Highlights include an improved version of its standard 3.6L direct injection V-6 engine, a new FE4 performance suspension package for SS coupes and several interior and technology improvements, such as a revised instrument panel design, new steering wheel and rear camera system.
The enhancements arrive in time for Camaro's 45th birthday, which will be celebrated with the release of the Chevrolet Camaro 45th Anniversary Special Edition. Continuing the tradition of Camaro anniversary models, the 45th Anniversary Special Edition carries all the upgrades for 2012, with additional unique design elements, inside and out.


"The appeal of Camaro design and performance has powered it to the top of its segment," said Rick Scheidt, vice president of Chevrolet marketing. "For 2012, we're capitalizing on that momentum with enhancements to Camaro's performance and comfort."
Also coming in early 2012 is the high-performance Camaro ZL1, the most technologically advanced car ever developed in its segment.
Class-leading 3.6L V-6 engine
Camaro's new 3.6L direct injection V-6 - the LFX engine - goes into production in the summer of 2011. It delivers an SAE-certified 323 horsepower (241 kW) at 6,800 rpm - an increase of 11 horsepower (8 kW) over the 2011 engine, with no compromise in fuel economy.

Sunday, May 8, 2011

2011 Hennessey Venom GT

Hennessey Performance had proudly announced the delivery of the Venom GT supercar. The first production of the Venom is powered by a twin turbocharged Chevrolet LS-series aluminum V8 producing 1,200 hp and 1,135 lb-ft torque mated to a 6-speed Ricardo manual transaxle (the same as found in the Ford GT).

The Venom GT’s design and construction has been engineered as an all-new front and rear space frame. The suspension is cloaked in a new carbon fiber body, sporting an adjustable rear wing for exceptional high-speed stability. The car boasts a dry weight of just 2,548 lbs and a curb weight of 2,685 lbs with a full tank of fuel.
Production levels of the Venom GT range from the base 725 hp supercharged LS9 V8 unveiled in the original prototype car to 1,000 hp and 1,200 hp twin turbo V8 variants. Each Venom GT is built in Silverstone, England, with power plants sourced from HPE’s Texas headquarters. The Venom GT is available in both left and right-hand drive configuration.