Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano One-to-One, 2009

Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano One-to-One, 2009

 

The Ferrari stand at the 2008 Paris Auto Show will host the official unveiling of the new Ferrari California, the stunning coupé-cabriolet that has created such expectation amongst both those in the industry and the public at large.

But this is not the only piece of good news to come from the Prancing Horse at the Paris Show as they will also be announcing the extension of the One To One Personalisation Programme, debuted in March 2008 solely for the Ferrari 612 Scaglietti, to the Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano.

Thanks to the success it has enjoyed over the last few months, the service is beeing extended to the most powerful 12-cylinder in the current range. Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano One-to-One clients will now be able to visit the dedicated Atelier in Maranello to create their own truly bespoke car. Not only will they have a vast range of special content to choose from but they will also be assisted by specially trained Ferrari consultants.

As at the 2008 Geneva Auto Show, Ferrari recreated the Atelier for its stand at the Paris Show too. This is an area to which clients can come to work out every last detail of their Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano on the basis of their own personal needs and tastes.

Dedicated Ferrari staff will be on hand to work with clients at each step of the way. Naturally, all of the various personalisation options on offer will ensure that the intrinsic character of the car is unchanged and will not in any way impinge upon the car's active or passive safety systems.

Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano China, 2009

Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano China, 2009

 

 

Ferrari announces the creation of a unique one-off Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano China Limited Edition, signed by Chinese artist Lu Hao, which will be auctioned on the 3rd of November, 2009 at a special Gala Auction Event hosted by Ferrari in Beijing. This exclusive car follows the announcement in September of a small series of specially-designed Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano China Limited Edition models which won wide acclaim.

The one-off incorporates a number of the features of the China Limited Edition cars, a very limited series of less than a dozen cars finished in two-tone Rosso Fuoco with silver roof and characterized by unique Chinese design elements.

This one-off model represents an even more exclusive version, thanks to a very special exterior finish which draws inspiration from Ge Kiln porcelain of the Song Dynasty. Lu Hao has blended traditional design elements with Ferrari's innovative styling to create a truly unique vehicle using a 'cracked' glaze pattern which is elegantly coloured, with clearly defined cracks etched at different depths.

Only a few hundred pieces of Ge Kiln porcelain exist today, all of which are priceless treasures. The "cracked" glaze pattern has the lustre of jade and is often used to symbolize the qualities of a true gentleman. Porcelain is one of China's most distinctive ancient arts which was brought to the West via the Silk Road thousands of years ago. Using Ge Kin porcelain as the inspiration for the one-off version is a perfect complement to Ferrari's China Limited Edition Model.

As one of China's most successful and influential contemporary artists, Lu Hao has exhibited his work in major museums and galleries around the world. For this project he drew inspiration from China's rich cultural heritage, and as a Ferrari owner, he has a particularly intimate connection with the brand.

The proceeds generated from the sale of this car will be used on an educational sponsor programme aimed to help young Chinese students in the automotive engineering field. Details of this programme will be released during the auction.
This is just the latest example of charitable events organized by Ferrari in China since Ferrari Maserati Cars International Trading - Shanghai Co. Ltd was s

Pagani Zonda Cinque, 2009

Pagani Zonda Cinque, 2009

 

 

 

 

 A project born to satisfy the request of the Pagani dealer for Hong Kong "SPS", an incredibile car which will be produced only in 5 (five) limited pieces, already all sold and will be street legal. It will be the first Pagani car to be equipped with sequential gearbox manageable both with paddles behind the steering and with the traditional gear stick on central tunnel. Besides, it will be the first Zonda to use the new Pagani invention, the carbon-titanium, a special fiber purposely created for the Zonda Cinque, which will be eventually used on the new generation models. This monster has 678 hp, 780 Nm torque, forged monolock titanium wheels, bolts and nuts will fully be done in titanium and boast the Pagani logo.

The interiors are refined and at the same time reveal the sporting attitude of this car. Racing leather seats developed by Toora, 4-points seatbelts and molibden steel roll-bars with carbon fiber coating.
The Zonda Cinque total weight will be 20 Kg lighter then the F model, will have new Pirelli tyres, with special compounds for the car.

Suspensions and springs will be in ergal and titanium developed with the latest technology from Öhlins, in accordance with the Pagani specifications. Four different settings, 10 adjustments each, to separate high and low frequencies, both in compression and extention.

The body is equipped with a longer front spoiler, new designed rear wing, central air intake on monocock, extra air intakes for rear brakes. Flat bottom and new rear air extractors will improve the downforce up to 750 Kg at 300km.

Technical Specifications:
    * Mercedes Benz AMG engine, 678 hp,
    * ECU, Traction control , ABS by Bosch
    * Inconel/titanium exhaust system coated with ceramic
    * Suspensions in magnesium and titanium
    * Cima sequential gearbox (6 speed), robotized by Automac enginnering
    * APP monolitic wheels forged in aluminium and magnesium. Size: front 9x19 - rear 12,5x20
    * Pirelli PZero tyres. Size: front 255/35/19 rear 335/30/20
    * Toora Racing Seats in carbon fiber, with leather cover
    * Carbon Fiber steering wheel
    * Brembo brakes in carbo-ceramic self ventilated with hydraulic servo brake, Size: front 380x34 mm, monolitic 6 piston caliper; rear 380x34 mm, monolitic 4 piston caliper.
    * Dry weight 1210 Kg
    * Weight distribution in driving condition: 47% front, 53% rear
    * Acceleration: 0-100 Km in 3.4 sec., 0-200 in 9.6 sec.
    * Braking: 100-0 km in 2.1 sec., 200-0 km 4.3 sec.
    * Maximum side acceleration: 1,45 G (with road tyres, NO CUP)

The Zonda Cinque will be a piece of art able to speed over 350 Km/h. A special colour livery will distinguish this unique, exclusive, 1ML Euro + tax model. Only five pieces for five wealthy Pagani lovers.

Honda 3R-C Concept, 2009

Honda 3R-C Concept, 2009

 

 

The Honda 3R-C Concept, a revolutionary three wheeled battery electric vehicle concept, shows what a future minimal urban transport vehicle for one person might look like. The battery electric drivetrain is mounted low in the three wheeled chassis, therefore keeping the centre of gravity low and thus improving stability.

The Honda 3R-C Concept has a clear canopy that covers the driver's seat while it is parked and not in use. When 3R-C vehicle is in motion, the canopy becomes an enveloping wind-shield that provides the pilot, who sits low in the vehicle, with significant protection from the bodywork and doors.

The high sides of the safety shell seat give greater safety to the occupant, reducing the threat from side impacts and improving weather protection. In front of the driver is a lockable boot area, which gives significant secure storage for luggage or other items. The Honda 3R-C Concept's designers created a flexible cover that surrounds the upper torso to reduce exposure to bad weather and improving comfort.

The Honda 3R-C Concept study was created by European designers working at Honda's Research and Design facility in Milan.

Chevrolet Camaro SS Indy 500 Pace Car, 2009

Chevrolet Camaro SS Indy 500 Pace Car, 2009

 

 

The 2010 Chevy Camaro Indianapolis 500 pace car is a 21st century sports car that looks to the future with a nod to both the car's and the race's heritage. The first year for Camaro to pace the Indianapolis 500 was in 1967, the year the Camaro made its debut. Camaro has since paced the race in 1969, 1982, 1993 and 2009.

2010 pace car features an Inferno Orange Metallic paint scheme with White Diamond rally stripes that travel from the front to the rear over the top of the body, as well as extending to the instrument panel. The design is a modern interpretation of the original rally stripe that debuted on the 1969 Indianapolis 500 Pace Car.

The 2010 pace car is equipped with a stock 400 hp 6.2L V-8, an RS appearance package and leather interior with Inferno Orange interior accents. The pace car also features unique design cues that further enhance the Camaro's head-turning design. Features unique to the pace car:
    * 2010 Indianapolis 500 event logo painted on doors and embroidered on driver and passenger headrests
    * 2010 Indianapolis 500 event logo badges on front fenders
    * All-new front grille insert that Chevrolet plans to offer as a future Camaro accessory
    * Amber lens tail lamps
    * Complete safety strobe light system with custom interior light bar in the rear window (no rooftop light bar)
    * All-new GM Accessory floor mats with red and orange accent stitching

Aston Martin V8 Vantage, 2009

Aston Martin V8 Vantage, 2009

 

 

Aston Martin V8 Vantage - originally launched to widespread critical acclaim at the Geneva Motor Show in 2005 - is to receive significant technical enhancements, reaffirming the car's position as one of the world's most desirable and exhilarating sports cars.

While the universally distinctive and award-winning shape of the Aston Martin V8 Vantage is retained, the car benefits from a number of technical changes which include significantly up-rated engine performance from a new 4.7 litre power unit in both Coupe and Roadster variants. Other changes include revised dynamics to take full advantage of increased power and torque availability, improved Sportshift™ transmission software and a new sports suspension option.

The 4.7 litre V8 engine has a power output of 420bhp (an 11% increase on the previous 4.3 litre unit) and delivers peak torque of 470Nm (15% increase), providing the Aston Martin V8 Vantage with new reserves of mid-range performance, an improved 0-60mph time of 4.7 seconds and top speed of 180mph (288kph). Combined European fuel economy and CO2 emissions are also improved by 13% (Sportshift™).

Inside, the changes include a new centre console and revised switchgear and the introduction of an ECU replacing the previous V8 Vantage key. Externally, the acclaimed Aston Martin V8 Vantage design appearance is enhanced with a range of new standard and optional 19'' alloy wheels.

Engine
Improvements in performance have been achieved through a number of carefully developed changes to Aston Martin's acclaimed V8 engine.

The cylinder bore and stroke has been increased from 89mm to 91mm and 86mm to 91mm respectively, giving a total displacement of 4735cc.
The increase in cylinder bore is facilitated by a move to cylinder liners that are pressed into the pre-machined aluminium alloy block, allowing a thinner liner than was possible with the cast-in design of the 4.3 litre engine.

The new forged steel crankshaft provides the 91mm stroke and incorporates new holes in the counter weights for reduced rotating mass and improved inter-bay breathing. New forged steel con-rods and cast aluminium pistons complete the capacity-related changes.

Transmission
The Aston Martin V8 Vantage transmissions have also undergone changes to improve performance and to handle the increased levels of power and torque. Both the standard manual stick-shift gearbox and the optional Sportshift™ transmission benefit from a modified clutch and flywheel, reducing clutch pedal efforts and delivering a 0.5kg weight saving, reducing the rotating masses within the powertrain, and hence increasing engine responsiveness.

'Dual Throttle Map' software is also featured. When 'Comfort' mode is selected the engine reacts in a smoother more progressive manner to driver throttle inputs and in the default 'Sports' mode the throttle mapping is more aggressive, delivering a more dynamic and sporting feel.

Sportshift™ now also has the capability to take inputs from the steering wheel enabling the current gear to be held when the car is negotiating a corner and hill descent detection, allowing a low gear to be held, maximising the effects of engine braking.

Suspension
A series of improvements are introduced to the Aston Martin V8 Vantage chassis and suspension setup to deliver improved body control and low speed ride quality; enabling the driver to take full advantage of the increased performance potential.
A number of the improved components originally introduced on the Aston Martin V8 Vantage Roadster are now carried over to the Coupe, including revised upper damper mountings and bump stops. Additionally, the front spring rates are stiffened by 11% at the front and 5% at the rear.

Steering geometry is also modified to improve steering feel, while the front lower suspension arm compliance bushes are stiffened by 22% to provide enhanced steering response and handling.
The Aston Martin V8 Vantage also now benefits from Bilstein dampers as standard; these low-friction dampers provide improved levels of dynamic capabilities and further improve ride quality.

Design & Optional Equipment
Also introduced as an option for both Coupe and Roadster variants is a new Sports Pack which comprises forged lightweight alloy wheels aiding a lower unsprung mass, re-tuned Bilstein dampers with improved dynamic response, up-rated springs and a revised rear anti-roll bar (Coupe only). The Sports Pack is intended to offer greater agility, high speed body control and precision feel for the most enthusiastic of drivers.

Performance
    * Max speed: 180mph (290 km/h)
    * Acceleration: 0-60mph 4.7 seconds
    * 0-100km/h (62mph) 4.8 seconds
    * Max power: 313kW (420bhp) @ 7000 rpm
    * Max torque: 470 Nm (346 lb.ft) @ 5750 rpm

Aston Martin DB9 Volante, 2009

Aston Martin DB9 Volante, 2009

 

Aston Martin introduced a revised version of the company's critically acclaimed Aston Martin DB9 at the 2008 Geneva Motor Show, which includes significant enhancements to standard specification. These changes include a revised version of Aston Martin's 6.0 litre V12 engine to deliver improved power and torque. Peak power of 470bhp (350kW) - increased by 20bhp (30Nm) - is now reached at 6,000rpm, resulting in a power to weight ratio of 267bhp per tonne (199kW/tonne) - an increase of 11bhp per tonne over the existing Aston Martin DB9.

Peak torque of 600Nm is delivered at 5,000rpm, providing even more accessible power for the driver, as well a greater performance feel overall. Accordingly, top speed is now 190mph (306km/h) and the benchmark 0-60mph time improves by 0.3 seconds for the Touchtronic transmission - which benefits from a new valve box and integrated transmission controls to achieve quicker gear shifts - to 4.6 seconds and by 0.1 seconds to 4.6 seconds for the manual gearbox.

The latest Aston Martin DB9 also incorporates a series of chassis developments for both the Coupe and Aston Martin DB9 Volante derivates. Bilstein dampers are introduced in addition to revised upper suspension arms and retuned suspension bushes to deliver improved ride quality; aiding greater refinement in the Aston Martin DB9 Volante and an enhanced sporting feel in the Coupe. The Aston Martin DB9 Volante also benefits from revisions to the front shear panel which increases torsional rigidity by 10%, further improving refinement.

The Aston Martin DB9 manages to combine all facets of style, quality and usability of a traditional Aston Martin without relying on retrospective detail or design. Accordingly, styling changes to the revised Aston Martin DB9 are subtle, reflecting the car's timeless design and understated elegance.

Exterior styling changes include the introduction of a new standard 19'' 10-spoke alloy wheel, new door mirrors and a revised anodised aluminium five-bar grille. In the cabin changes include a new centre console constructed from die cast zinc with a painted iridium silver finish and the introduction of a new Emotion Control Unit (ECU) - first seen on the Aston Martin DBS in 2007. The ECU - constructed from glass, polished stainless steel and polycarbonate - replaces the key used previously for the Aston Martin DB9.

The innovative Aston Martin DB9 introduced an exciting new era for Aston Martin. The 2+2 sports car set new standards in its class due to its astonishing combination of technology, agility and design. The car marked the beginning of a new era for Aston Martin and became the first car to be hand-made at the company's state-of-the-art facility in Gaydon, Warwickshire.

Porsche 911 Targa 4, 2009

Porsche 911 Targa 4, 2009

 

The 911 Targas differ from both the Carrera Coupes and Cabriolets by dint of their stunning glass tops. The all-wheel drive Porsche 911 Targa 4 and Targa 4S are unique with roofs comprised entirely of two transparent panels. The glass extends from the windshield header back to the leading edge of the engine cover, from side frame to side frame.

More Power from Less Fuel
Both the Porsche 911 Targa 4 and 911 Targa 4S receive new engines which boast direct fuel injection, new two-piece crankcases and revised intake and exhaust systems along with Porsche VarioCam Plus intake-valve timing and lift system. By injecting the fuel directly into each cylinder's combustion chamber rather than the intake as is more common, combustion is cleaner and more complete. This technology reduces exhaust emissions and fuel consumption while simultaneously increasing engine potency.

The results are felt and appreciated immediately by the Porsche 911 Targa 4's driver. Thanks to a 6.2 percent increase in horsepower and a 5.3 percent gain torque over last year's model, the 3.6- liter engine goes from 325 to 345 hp and receives a gain in torque from 273 to 288 lb.-ft. A manual gearbox equipped 2009 911 Targa 4 can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph (96 km/h) in 5.0 seconds.

Two Clutches, No Clutch Pedal
To take full advantage of the newly designed engines, Porsche is offering drivers a transmission that delivers quicker acceleration than is possible with the standard manual gearbox while maximizing fuel efficiency. The new PDK (from the German Porsche- Doppelkupplungsgetriebe), or Porsche double-clutch, replaces the Tiptronic S as the optional gearbox in both the Porsche 911 Targa 4 and Targa 4S.

Porsche was the first automaker to successfully use this transmission technology back in the 1980s when the transmission was developed for the mighty Porsche 962 Group C race car. The Porsche 911 Targa 4 or Targa 4S driver can allow the seven-speed PDK to shift up and down automatically, or he may opt to manually shift via steering-wheel mounted paddles or the console-mounted lever, the same as with the Tiptronic S.

All-Weather Maximum Performance
In addition to their unique two-section glass roofs, the Porsche 911 Targa 4 and Targa 4S offer their drivers the added benefits of all-wheel drive. For 2009, these cars benefit from the same electronically controlled Porsche Traction Management (PTM) found under the awesome Porsche Turbo, as well as the new mchanical locking differential standard.

PTM replaces the previous models' viscous-coupling, mechanical all-wheel drive system and operates more quickly and seamlessly than its predecessor. PTM varies the torque split infinitesmely and absolutely between front and rear wheels as needed for optimum traction. However, since most purists feel-and Porsche's engineers staunchly believe-that rear-drive is critical for optimum sporty driving, PTM directs two thirds of the engine's torque to the rear wheels under normal driving conditions.

When the system determines it's needed, PTM diverts engine power and torque to the front axle in millisecond cycles. Particularly at very high speeds, all the driver feels is the car's significant stability.

Bigger, Grippier Brakes
Porsche engineers firmly believe that a car's deceleration ability must always out-perform its ability to accelerate. Commensurate with the gains in engine performance, the 2009 Porsche 911 Targa 4 and Targa 4S receive added braking capability. All four brake rotors on both cars are cross-drilled, inner vented and now 12.99 inches (330 mm) in diameter.

In addition, the monobloc, four-piston calipers are now the same as those used on the 911 Turbo. Critical refinements have been made to the airflow around the wheels to increase brake cooling all around as well.

Instantly Recognizable and Aerodynamic
With their full-glass canopy - from beltline to beltline, front cowl to rear engine cover - the Porsche 911 Targa 4 and Targa 4S look like nothing else on the road, Porsche or otherwise. But from the beltline down, the cars share a strong resemblance to the current Carrera 4 and Carrera 4S models.

Clearly, the most striking element of the 911 Targa is its 16.58 sq.-ft. glass roof. The roof is comprised of two separate segments: a sliding panel over the front seats and a hinged tailgate at the rear. The electrically operated front panel fully opens or closes in seven seconds. When open, the glass panel slides snugly beneath the tailgate, providing almost five square feet of open space above the passenger cabin.

The sliding roof comes standard with a new sun shade offering greater privacy and more effective thermal protection than before. When closed, the sun shade covers the entire area of the sliding roof panel, opening and closing electrically and independently of the roof itself.
The glass roof and tailgate are made of special tinted glass, which protects the occupants from ultraviolet radiation and excessive heat even in bright sunlight.

The rear section of the Targa top opens for access to the interior, particularly handy for getting to the storage area behind the rear seatbacks. The Porsche 911 Targa 4 and Targa 4S are the only models in the Porsche 911 range with a separately opening tailgate.

More Sophisticated and Comfortable
Beneath the glass top, the Porsche 911 Targa 4 and Targa 4S boast luxuriously appointed passenger cabins. Like all Porsches, the cars offer their occupants the protection of six airbags: dual frontal-impact airbags as well as two seat-mounted thorax-protecting side-impact airbags and two head-protecting side-impact curtain door-mounted airbags.

Interior refinements include a revamped center console highlighted by a new Porsche Communication Management system-PCM 3.0-and the availability of ventilated front seats.
The optional navigation module now has a 40 GB hard drive. Other available features with the newest PCM include XM satellite radio with XM NavTraffic capability, Bluetooth connectivity, an iPod port, a USB port and an auxiliary jack.

Interior comfort may be further enhanced thanks to optional seat ventilating fans, available in conjunction with heated seats. These circulate air through the seatback and cushion upholstery to expedite cooling, heating and/or drying the driver and passenger.

Porsche Boxster, 2009

Porsche Boxster, 2009

 

In 1948, the 356 was the first sports car to bear the Porsche name, and in July that year the lightweight mid-engined roadster achieved its first motorsport victory. In 1953, the Porsche 550 Spyder was launched. This agile, lightweight race car was powered by a high performance 'boxer' engine which took it to countless international victories.

Porsche presented the second generation of the mid-engined Porsche Boxster roadster at the 2008 Los Angeles Motor Show. The highlight of the new generation is the new flat-six 'boxer' engines, developed with new technical features from the ground up, providing not only more power, but also significantly greater fuel efficiency.

A further improvement of both fuel economy and performance is guaranteed by the Porsche Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK), the new double-clutch gearbox now available as an option on both the Porsche Boxster and Boxster S.

Displacing 2.9-litres, the engine of the Porsche Boxster develops 255 bhp (188 kW) in the Boxster, an increase of 10 horsepower over the prior 2.7-litre model.

The 3.4-litre power unit in the Porsche Boxster S now features Direct Fuel Injection, and delivers 310 bhp (228 kW), up by 15 bhp.

Direct Fuel Injection standard on 3.4-litre S engine
The driver benefits from a further advantage of direct injection every time they touch the throttle pedal: with fuel being injected fractions of a second prior to combustion, the engines respond more directly and spontaneously to even the slightest movement of the driver's right foot. This is not only the case when accelerating, but also when lifting off the throttle, for engine speed drops more quickly and smoothly since there is no residual fuel left in the intake manifold which might otherwise prolong the combustion process.

Design emphasises performance
The seamless blend of function and design has always been the Porsche philosophy. The result is a design consistency which is recognisable from every angle. A design which is both powerful and refined, and whose lines emphasise its sports performance.

The evolutionary styling of the next generation Porsche Boxster embodies these principles. The latest models are clearly distinguishable from outside through their newly-designed nose and tail. The new halogen headlights with their integrated direction indicators are reminiscent of the lights on the Carrera GT, while at the rear, new LED lights taper to the outside and are integrated elegantly in to the restyled bodywork.

PDK: shifting gears more quickly, reducing fuel consumption
The new Porsche Boxster models are available with the Porsche-Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK) carried over directly from motor sport, and replacing the former Tiptronic S torque converter automatic transmission. When equipped with PDK, the Porsche Boxster accelerates from 0-62mph (100 km/h) 0.1 seconds faster than with the manual six-speed gearbox.

Acceleration is particularly fast and dynamic with the optional Sports Chrono Package Plus featuring Launch Control; this offers maximum acceleration from a standing start and also a Race Track Gearshift Strategy for the fastest conceivable gear change as an exclusive highlight on the PDK models.

Porsche Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK) - in detail
The next generation Porsche Boxster and Boxster S are available for the first time with the new Porsche Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK), literally Porsche double-clutch gearbox. Offering no less than seven forward gears, the new gearbox combines the driving comfort of a torque converter-equipped automatic transmission with the dynamic manual gearshift functionality of a sequential racing gearbox. PDK also boasts an entirely automatic gearshift function, and replaces the Porsche Tiptronic S automatic transmission previously offered. Through its optimised and adaptive gearshift programmes, PDK further improves the acceleration of the Porsche Boxster models and reduces fuel consumption to an even lower level.

In principle, the PDK consists of a conventional manual gearbox and a hydraulic control system divided into two separate transmission units. Two wet clutches in radial arrangement, controlled hydraulically, and using oil for both cooling and lubrication, form the heart of the transmission. One clutch is for the first transmission unit with the uneven gear ratios (1,3,5,7) and reverse, and the other clutch is for the second transmission unit with the even gears (2,4,6). Via a number of pressure valves, the hydraulic control unit masterminds both the wet clutches and the shift cylinders activating the transmission ratio required.

The gearshift perceived by the driver comes not from the gears actually changing, but from the change of positive clutch engagement. In this case, the clutch on one transmission opens or disengages while the clutch on the other transmission closes or engages in a simultaneous process. The big advantage is an even faster gearshift than with a conventional manual gearbox or torque converter automatic transmission. The gears are already 'in mesh' when shifting and the power of the engine need not be interrupted in the process.