Hybrid concept debuts in late April 2012 in Beijing, BMW Concept i8 Spyder: On the way to series

 BMW Concept i8 SpyderGreat strides it is for the i-series models from BMW in the direction of maturity. A good year is in the mind of i8 Concept at the auto show in Beijing in late April 2012, the BMW Concept i8 Spyder.

Slightly shortened
Compared to the previous coupe variant, the i8 Spyder Concept to a slightly shorter wheelbase of 2.65 meters, was also the overall length of 15 centimeters to 4.48 meters reduced. In addition, the Spyder is a pure two-seater, the Concept is still i8 was designed as a 2 +2- seater. Striking features are no longer transparent swing doors. They already give it a clear indication of future production model. Under the transparent glass cover of the rear area, there are two e-kickboards, a type of skateboard with handlebars and engine. Inside, the materials and color scheme has been revised. The switches were previously futuristic and have now also been highly suggestive of the production version.

Life and continue
BMW has retained the so-called LifeDrive architecture, which consists of independent functional units. This is the “Life-module” from the very light carbon fiber passenger cell, while the majority take components made of aluminum “drive” all the modules driving-related functions, including powertrain, chassis and safety structure. A total of i8 Concept Spyder brings a curb weight of 1,630 kilograms. The Spyder will be on show in Beijing without a roof. An eventual production model of an open i8 gets a two-piece targa top, but has not yet adopted.

Double Heart
On the BMW Concept Spyder i8 plug-in hybrid technology is under the dynamic envelope. While on the front axle is a 96 kW respectively 131 HP electric motor operates strong, with the rear axle of a three-cylinder turbo petrol 164 kW or 223 hp is driven. The system power is 260 kW, which are 354 hp. Maximum torque of 550 Newton meters is available. So shall the i8 Spyder Concept sprint in five seconds from zero to 100 km / h to 250 km / h, electronically limited. Despite this, BMW sports car values ​​on the average consumption of three liters per 100 kilometers.

Fast charging
The electric motor draws its energy from a lithium-ion battery that can be fully recharged at any household outlet in less than two hours. The battery sits in the so-called “energy keel” front and rear axle modules between to keep the center of gravity as low as possible. With full energy storage, the BMW Concept Spyder i8 cover up to 30 kilometers on electric power. It is stressed that the electric motor is not an auxiliary power unit, but an equivalent drive. If necessary, a a coupled to the internal combustion engine high-voltage generator also generates electricity that is stored in the hybrid battery. Alternatively, the front or rear wheels or all four wheels are driven simultaneously. An intelligent electronic control system ensures that every situation is selected in the optimal configuration.

Smart networked
Thus, the hybrid drive can operate at maximum efficiency, power electronics with intelligent navigation and traffic control systems is linked to. In this way information flow to the line profile, at any speed limits and inevitable traffic jams in the calculations of energy management to the operation of the hybrid strategy accordingly.

2013 Porsche Boxster: Part II, Enhanced, enhanced, impressive!

Porsche BoxsterIn the best tradition of Porsche, a first look at the new Boxster suggests she suffered only minor changes. However, simply listing all edits and changes would be the case of thousands of words. Indeed, each element has been revised and amended as necessary to make the vehicle more homogeneous and efficient as possible.

While the silhouette and mechanical components that appear to have been edited slightly, study a little more depth to the conclusion that it is much more important than it seems. In addition, the Boxster has a new platform. This is naturally more rigid, but also lengthened the wheelbase by 60 mm, which reduced the same time the door to FALSE because the car is always the same length. In this regard, you can see the first part of this article.

A silhouette successful
The first generation of the Boxster models and successor had borrowed heavily from the legendary Porsche 550 timeless silhouette which remains a classic in the history of the automobile. This time, we managed to keep the original lines of the Boxster, but by adding touches that make all the difference.

The designers have kept the same proportions, but gave more tone to the presentation side using larger wheels, which changes the whole perspective of the car. The front air intakes have been enlarged while the beams are now composed of two superimposed elements. This provision is inspired by legendary racing cars of the brand of the 60s. Note also that the air intake side was enlarged. But the most striking change is the presence of edges on the upper front and rear wings. This gives a more distinct look and typed. In addition, the rear wing to deploy automatic or manual has been repositioned, while the lights are integrated in this fin, thus accentuating the contemporary look of the car. The interior has also evolved, and this positively. The most striking feature is the new design of air vents. These are equipped with a front opening and another on the upper part of the dashboard. It’s original, modern-looking and effective. Naturally, it has retained the start button to the left of the steering wheel, as tradition dictates.

Motors, engines still
As before, this model comes in two versions: Boxster and Boxster S, each with a different engine. The regular version uses a 2.7 liter engine producing 265 horsepower. This is a gain of 10 horsepower over the previous version. These horses can carry the traditional 0-100 km / h in 5.5 seconds, slightly faster than the previous version. Accelerated performance and extra power does not have a negative effect on fuel consumption is reduced by 15%. These results are explained largely by a decrease in the weight of the car, mainly because of the use of aluminum for the body, which is lighter than 35 kg. Both models are also equipped with stop-start device that cuts the engine off and restarts it when accelerating.

The most powerful model, and naturally the most expensive, is the Boxster S. It has also a flat-six engine, but this time the engine is 3.4 liters. The power generated by this engine is 315 horsepower, a gain of five compared to the old version. Again, performance is slightly improved, since the manufacturer claims a time of 4.8 seconds for 0-100 km / h. The average consumption was reduced by 1.4 liters per 100 km, a saving of 15%. No matter the engine choice, the six-speed manual transmission is offered as standard equipment. Those who want the automatic PDK dual-clutch seven-speed can be ordered as an option. Its effectiveness is such that it provides better performance. Moreover, we must not ignore the manual transmission as its staging, the accuracy of the lever and the progressiveness of his clutch is almost unparalleled.

It dominates the road!
Under the model was introduced which took place on the French Riviera, I was able to drive the two versions. Certainly S is faster through the engine power, but in both cases, the car retains all its agility and its driving qualities which have always been appreciated since its arrival on the market. I am not fond of mountain route that continue to meander. However, this was an exceptional way to discover the qualities of the Porsche, both in terms of acceleration, braking than its behavior in turns. If the presence of an electric power steering worries you, rest assured, this is what is done among the best in support and precision. Significant progress has been made in this area.

No need to go into detail steering, this car will make you a unique experience to all points of view. Repeats are nerve, allowing overtaking safely. You have accelerated too quickly and a tight bend shows up in front of you? The brakes take care of everything. In all honesty, it is impossible to discover the limits of such a vehicle on a highway. We should get to a racetrack in the racing car to push its limits … and I am confident that my limits will be reached before that of the automobile! Under this test, we took the path of one of the most difficult stages of Mone Carlo Rally, and the Boxster has been up.

All in all, this Boxster retains its silhouette so typical, but the changes and improvements have enhanced: it consumes less, is lighter and his driver fills in terms of driving pleasure. And do not forget that the fabric roof is deployed even faster than before, while the baggage front and rear add to the practical side of this car.

Emergency car and safety car from Mercedes again Quick safety for Formula 1

Mercedes again Quick safety for Formula 1 Mercedes is not only contributing to the AMG-Petronas team in Formula 1 Also, the safety car and medical car coming from the nearby Affalterbach near Stuttgart, home of Mercedes-AMG Performance daughter.

Middle Series SLS AMG
The role of the safety car does the SLS AMG Gullwing. This is for his Formula 1 use almost unmodified. Listen to the car, however, is better than ever: A specifically designed for Formula 1 rides developed exhaust system should collaborate the audience. At the rear end of the roof sits aerodynamically matched signal conditioning of the Safety Car. It is held by a carbon construction, which has been shaped so that is at 120 km / h automatically extending rear wing continued to flow optimally. With the signaling system centrally mounted green LEDs, the safety car would point out that it is the Formula 1 field inquietudes. When the safety car has taken over the leadership of the field, the outer orange-colored LEDs are activated, the signal the drivers with a no overtaking. However, since the start of the 2012 season may lapped cars, after approval by the racing line to overtake the safety car to have a better chance at a restart.

Internal surveillance
The interior of the SLS AMG Safety Car is dominated by surveillance and communication. So there is a control unit for the signal system on the roof, a radio system, two monitors to monitor the driver’s field using the outside of the vehicle-mounted cameras and a second rear view mirror, also for the monitoring of the field. Moreover, the so-called Marshalling system on board. This show of LEDs that can be swiveled at the track just the yellow and green flags. An additional camera monitors the driver and passenger of the safety car. The strobe flashes for safety reasons propelled SLS AMG must be traveling fast, otherwise the tires to cool him following Formula 1 racing cars too fast and threaten the motors from overheating. The safety car is like the SLS AMG-series model, with 571 hp and accelerates the move in 3.8 seconds from zero to 100 km / h

Quick to the point: Medical Car
As a quick medical emergency vehicle in the Formula 1 season 2012 Mercedes C 63 AMG Estate is used. The combination is pursuing the field in the implementation and on the opening lap, especially since there the vehicles close together and thus the risk of accidents is increased. Also, the Medical Car has been driving her from his left in the production configuration, go Thanks to an optional AMG Performance Package with 487 hp, it accelerates in 4.5 seconds from zero to 100 km / h The emergency vehicle is equipped with a traffic signal system on the roof and strobe flashes in the headlights. Inside, there is next to the radio equipment and medical equipment for first aid course. Thus, in the trunk for example, find a ventilator and a defibrillator course.

U.S. company Gull wing America puts on the 904 new Return of a Porsche legend

Porsche legend For many fans, he is the finest Porsche of all time: The presented 1963 904, also known by the name Carrera GTS. The successful styling is by no lesser authority than 911 designers FA Porsche.

Almost priceless
A special feature of the 904 was its plastic body, which gave the 4.09 meter long car a curb weight of just 650 kilograms. Therefore, a maximum of 180 horsepower ranged in the racing version for up to 263 km / h. Success of the 904 greatest sporting victory at the Tara Florio in Sicily in 1964. Only 116 cars were built, one was priced at DM 29 700 For comparison, a Porsche 911 was about 8,000 marks cheaper. These days are called for an original 904 upscale six-figure sums.

Boxster with a nostalgic look
For desperate fans, there is now a glimmer of hope in the shape of the U.S. company Gull wing America (GWA). She has already made a name by Mercedes and Ferrari conversions in retro style. Now comes the 904 Carrera P/904, respectively, as he calls GWA. He uses the benefit of the original mid-engine layout, the platform of the recently detached Boxster generation with the internal code 987th More specifically, the Boxster S with 295 hp from 3.4 liters displacement and six-speed manual transmission.

More comfort
The body of the P/904 Carrera is made of carbon fiber composite material, added 18-inch wheels to round out the look. Unlike the original, from the 1960s is a wealth of extras on board comfort, here Greetings from the Boxster. In addition to an air conditioner integrated GWA additional LED lights, an iPod connection and a navigation system. Currently we are developing a prototype of the P/904 Carrera, is a date for start of production is not there yet. The reconstruction costs estimated at around 70,000 € GWA, the customer must bring a Boxster addition. A separate 904-replica with no connections to GWA, incidentally, in the Bavarian Heinz Kurek Puchheim on wheels: it produces per year, four copies of his GT6.

The new Porsche Boxster 2013 unveiled at Geneva

new Porsche BoxsterNot only is the 2013 Porsche Boxster has been reviewed, but it is also a new generation model. In fact, the automaker from Stuttgart was the unveiling at the Geneva Auto Show. The two-seat roadster gets a whole new body and chassis completely redesigned. The new generation of Boxster is lighter than the old, but still enjoys a longer wheelbase.

The car also has larger wheels and an electromechanical steering. According to company officials, the Boxster will be more efficient, and this, while showing an improved fuel consumption by 15%. There are always two models: the Boxster, powered by a 6-cylinder engine with 265 horsepower flat, and the Boxster S, which receives a 6-cylinder boxer 3.4-liter 315 horsepower.

Geneva 2012: Grumpier Apollo shows R and Apollo Enraged dream car from Turing

Geneva 2012connoisseurs know it: For the past few years to be built at Grumpier in Ellensburg, Turing exclusive super sports car. At the Geneva Motor Show (8th to 18th March 2012) the company has now shown that there is something even more extreme.

Uncompromising racing
a Gumpert Apollo is the world premiere of R, one designed exclusively for racing racing car with up to 860 hp. An increased demand, especially from Asia, has led to offer this pure racing car. The Apollo Gumpert R is to offer ambitious customers to participate in open-GT events. In order to elicit a 4.2-liter V8 to 860 hp, various modifications may be made. These include a higher boost pressure, ignition and valve timing adjustment, optimization of the intake air duct and a special exhaust system. Furthermore, the interior was stripped down. By dispensing with comfort components of the Apollo R weighs 1100 kilograms.

Rare trio
is the brother of the civilian R In a way the Apollo Enraged. The special edition is limited to three copies. A dry weight of 1,175 kilograms, which is allied with 780 hp. In addition to an embroidery of the seats in the flag design, digital LCD instrument panel, the most noticeable change is in the interior.

IED Turin presents at the Geneva Motor Show 2012 Cisitalia 202 E Exciting thesis

Cisitalia 202 Ewhether or Master Degree: Theses are all too often dull and boring. Not so at the “Institutor Europe Di Design,” in short IED in Turin. Here, the budding car designers make a complete vehicle to its wheels. The result of this work of eleven students from around the world, the Cisitalia 202 E at the Geneva Motor Show (8th to 18th March 2012).

Post-war pioneers
Cisitalia? Only designated car experts should know this name yet. Founded in 1943 by Piero Dusio, Cisitalia cars built through 1964. At the fame it brought two main types: First, the race car 360 of 1947 with 400-hp V12 engine and four-wheel, Porsche was involved in its development. The money received for them allowed Porsche to start their own construction of sports cars. Second, the 202, also from 1947. The little sports car weighed only 780 pounds, so a 55 hp four-cylinder strong enough for a maximum of 165 km / h. With 485 copies of the 202 was the most numerous and Cisitalia was Carlo Abarth as an inspiration for his first model.

Purist nice
that time of the Cisitalia 202 was particularly praised for his no-frills design. It was created with the participation of big names such as Battista “Pinin” Farina, Castagna and Vignale. Henry Ford II to the 202 once described as “the most beautiful Italian car, which he has ever seen”. Today, a 202-copy in the Museum of Modern Art, New York. It wants to continue the 202 E, the E stands for evolution. The two-seater coupe is 4.27 meters long and 1.24 meters flat. Front and rear should cite the historical model. A front-mounted V8 engine sends 450 horsepower to the rear wheels. IED students received the support of Pirelli and OZ Design.

Erelong shows lifting measures for the end of 2012 Caught: Opel Astra notchback

Opel Astra notchbackWhether VW Jetta or Mazda 3: The step-back in this country in the compact class, a limited fan base. Also, the Opel Astra was far otherwise, why was abandoned since the start of the current generation of 2009, this body variant.

Notchback for Europe
But at the end of 2012 approaching this problem, such as a recent Erelong shows. The Opel Astra notchback will help the brand in major markets, particularly in southern and eastern Europe, where traditional sedans are at a premium. Conceivable also are the customers, where a Insignia is too large. A costly new development is not necessary, because as a Buick Verano, the Astra sedan has been available in the U.S. in late 2011. The Buick is 4.67 meters long and swallows 430 liters of luggage.

A New Face
While the mutation of the tail to the Astra Verano is hardly changed. By contrast, the front end: This shows the Erl-King has a new face that the compact Opel receives from autumn 2012. The optics with flat headlights is already known from the Astra GTC. Starting in 2013, finally completed a convertible, the Astra model range.

Toyota GT86: market launch in autumn 2012 New Toyota athletes from less than 30,000 €

Toyota GT86At the Tokyo Motor Show in late 2011 it had its world premiere at the Geneva Motor Show 2012 (until 18 March), he is currently on his European debut and fall of 2012 he came to the dealers: We are talking about Toyota GT86. The sports car is to continue to have a starting price of € 29 990.

Much of this
Even the basic version of a comprehensive standard specification will be announced. Always there are xenon headlights, LED daytime running lights, fog lamps and 17-inch alloy wheels. Also on board a multimedia audio system, dual-zone automatic climate control, cruise control and keyless entry and start system, “Smart Key” is. For security to ensure ESP and seven airbags including a knee airbag for the driver. Optional for the GT86 including a Leader-/Alcantara-Assaulting with heated seats, a rear parking aid and a navigation system available. Who wants an even sportier look, you can order the so-called “aero package”. It includes modified aprons, side skirts and a rear wing.

200-hp boxer engine
Is powered by the 4.24 meters long 2 +2- seater over the rear wheels of a 200-hp four-cylinder boxer engine from Subaru. Subaru itself brings a technically almost identical sister model under the name GT. The GT86 is combined with a standard six-speed manual transmission, for 1550 € extra is a six-speed automatic transmission. The sporty interior ambience is dominated by sport seats with deep seating position, aluminum pedals and a small sports steering wheel. The boot holds 243 liters, the rear seat backs can be a flat load floor by moving. Can be ordered from the Toyota GT86 immediately to the dealers of the compact sports car comes from 15 September 2012. The sister model Subaru GT comes in the summer of 2012 on the market. At what price, is not yet known.

Lotus Exige S Roadster brings the Never before has an open sports the brand was so fast.

Lotus ExigeLotus , within the framework of the Geneva Motor Show 2012 (The public on March 8 to 18) is a particularly hot issue before. According to the British sports car brand is the Exige S Roadster namely the fastest open Lotus series of all time. In addition to the potent engine primarily to the low weight is crucial. Instead of a (heavy) hard top so a classic, pretty spartan cloth cap is used.

Strong, fast and easy
The 350-hp 3.5-liter V6 from the Evora S has no effort to accelerate the 1,100 kg unladen weight. Sun graduated from the Exige S Roadster accelerates from a standstill to 100 kph in exactly four seconds to 8.5 seconds showing on the speedometer is already 160 km / h. Then it goes merrily on, is only in 233 cases concluded. By then probably also the best hair spray where . give A launch control for race starts is also on board.