Pagani Zonda C12-S Roadster

Pagani Zonda C12-S Roadster, 2003

The Pagani Zonda is a supercar made by Italian car maker Pagani. It debuted in 1999 and continues through the present, with production proceeding at roughly 25 cars per year. As of December, 2005, 60 Zondas had been built. It is a mid-engined 2-seat coupe and convertible. Construction is mainly of carbon fiber.

Some early Zonda engineering was done by Formula One champion, Juan Manuel Fangio. The car was originally to be named for him, the "Fangio F1", but the name was changed upon his death in 1995.

The Zonda is often compared to other supercars such as the Enzo Ferrari, the Koenigsegg CCR, the Lamborghini Murcielago and the Porsche Carrera GT.

1999 Zonda C12
The C12 debuted at the 1999 Geneva Motor Show. It was powered by a 6.0 L (5987 cc) Mercedes-Benz M120 V12 engine and could reach speeds of 185 mph (297 km/h). The engine produces 408 PS (300 kW/402 hp) at 5200 rpm and 421 ft·lbf (571 N·m) at 3800 rpm.

Just five of the original 6.0 L Zondas were built, though it was still available in 2002 when the C12 S debuted. One was used for crash testing, while another was a demonstrator and show car. The rest were delivered to customers over the next three years, priced at US$320,000.

The C12 could accelerate to 60 mph (97 km/h) in 4.2 seconds and hit 100 mph (161 km/h) in 8.2 seconds. Acceleration through the quarter mile was 12.1 seconds at 124 mph (200 km/h). Lateral acceleration on the skidpad was .93g, and the car could brake from 60 mph (97 km/h) in 110 ft (34 m).

1999 Zonda C12 S
The C12 S used a 7.0 L (7010 cc) AMG tuned version of the engine producing 550 PS (404 kW/543 hp). It can accelerate to 60 mph (97 km/h) in 3.7 s, to 100 mph in 9.5 s and complete the quarter mile in 11.9 s. Lateral acceleration on the skidpad is 0.98 g (9.6 m/s2). The car is 10 kg (22 lb) lighter than the normal Zonda C12. Top speed is 220 mph (354 km/h) for the coupe and 215 mph (346 km/h) for the roadster.

The C12 S features an elongated nose and flaps at the rear for improved aerodynamics. New light clusters and exhausts are also used. Fifteen 7.0 L C12 S cars were produced.

2002 Zonda C12 S 7.3
The 7.3 L (7291 cc) C12 S 7.3 of 2002 used one of the largest V12 engines ever made. The engine was designed and manufactued by Mercedes-Benz AMG. Traction control was added to handle the 555 PS (408 kW/547 hp) and 750 N·m (553 ft·lbf) that this engine produces. As of 2005, only five coupes out of an expected 100 have been produced.

A roadster version is also built, with production limited by the company to 40 examples. As of 2005, nine roadsters had been built. According to Road & Track magazine, three more C12 S 7.3 cars had been built as of June, 2005, but it is unclear whether they were roadsters or coupes. Motor Trend reported that 60 Zondas of all types had been built in their January 2006 issue.

2003 Zonda GR
Development of the Zonda GR started in December, 2002. At this stage the Zonda was nearly four years old, but had yet to be entered in major motorsports. Tom Weickardt, owner of American Viperacing, Toine Hezemans, owner of Carsport Holland, and Paul Kumpen, owner of GLPK, created a new company, Carsport Zonda, to build a racing version. They secured exclusive rights to develop, build and sell competition Zondas from Horacio Pagani, and the first GR was completed at Carsport's facility in Modena within months.

The Zonda GR is based on the Zonda C12 S. It was built on the same carbon fiber chassis, with tube frames in front and back. The bodywork was modified to include front and rear diffusers and louvers for improved aerodynamics. The car was 2 m (6.6 ft) wide, in accordance with the regulations of the FIA and ACO. The car's weight was reduced to 1100 kg (2425 lb), and a new suspension was designed. New wheels and brakes were also specified. The engine was equipped with an enlarged radiator, and the engine and gearbox also have new oil coolers.

The performance of the Zonda GR is well beyond that of the stock car. The car sprints from 0 to 60 mph (97 km/h) in 3.3 seconds and the engine produces around 600 PS (around 440 kW) at 5800 rpm and 580 ft·lbf (786 N·m) of torque at 4300 rpm with a redline increased to 7500 rpm. The added power and improved aerodynamics allow the car to hit 215 mph (346 km/h).

The Zonda C12 S Monza debuted at the 2004 Paris Motor Show as a track-day version of the Zonda for private use. Borrowing its appearance cues from the Zonda GR, the Monza included many features which could also be applied to other Zonda models. A dry sump engine tuned to more than 600 PS (more than 440 kW) was used, and the cooling was improved. Modified aerodynamics, including a different wing and front diffuser, allowed greater speed, as did optimized gearing. The car was lighter, with polycarbonate side windows, and an unmuffled exhaust is fitted. The revised interior includes different pedals, steering wheel, and seats, as well as a reinforced roll cage. Larger brakes and a stiffer suspension also improve performance. Finally, an external fire extinguisher is included for safety.

2005 Zonda F (C12 F)
The Zonda C12 F debuted at the 2005 Geneva Motor Show. It is the most extensive reengineering of the Pagani car yet, though it shares much with its predecessors including the 7.3 L V12. Power is increased to 602 PS (443 kW/594 hp) with a special clubsport model producing 650 PS (478 kW/641 hp). The company promises a 3.2 second sprint to 60 mph (97 km/h, a top speed over 350 km/h (218 mph) and it will be the queen in braking from 300 km/h to 0 (186 mph to 0). The Zonda F clubsport has a power to weight ratio of 521 bhp/ton (384 W/kg) . Compare, for example, the Enzo Ferrari which has a power to weight ratio of 483 bhp/ton (356 W/kg).

Production of the Zonda F will be limited to 25 cars, still not US compatible. The next model, due to be unveiled in 2008, will be fully EPA/DOT compatible.

The Zonda F, named after F1 pilot Juan Manuel Fangio, comes with an extra head light and different fog lights at the sides, new bodywork (revised front end, new rear spoiler, more aerodynamic vents all around) that improves the cars aerodynamics and different side mirrors. Further enhancements over the 'S' centre around optional carbon/ceramic brakes developed in conjuction with Brembo, magnesium wheels, inconel titanium exhaust system, hydroformed aluminium intake plenum and a redesigned 'Z preg' weave in the crash structure to improve rigidity and reduce weight.

Zonda Roadster F
The Zonda Roadster F debuted at the 2006 Geneva show. It is similar to the coupe, but with a removable carbon fibre roof and canvas side curtains weighing just 11 lb (5 kg). Production of the Roadster F is suggested at 25 units.

The Roadster F is able to maintain chassis rigidity without any gain in curb weight by eschewing conventional thinking by not strengthening the sills - a process which would have needed more than 35kg of reinforcement. Pagani instead uses racecar thinking, materials and construction techniques, strengthening the firewall structure of the chassis tub together with billet alloy braces that connect the points where the roof rails would have joined. The windscreen is also strengthened for safety reasons. These techniques enable the Roadster to have virtually the same weight as the coupe - 1230kg.

Lotus Ice Vehicle Concept

Lotus Ice Vehicle Concept, 2008

Lotus Ice Vehicle Concept, 2008

Jeep EV Concept

Jeep EV Concept, 2008

The Jeep EV development vehicle is a Range-extended Electric Vehicle that provides a glimpse into the future of a "Go Anywhere, Do Anything" vehicle with renowned Jeep Wrangler capability.

The Jeep EV combines Wrangler's unmatched off-road capability with the ultimate "Tread Lightly" mindset by providing nature ambassadors with the ability to roam the planet and take care of it at the same time.

The Jeep EV Range-extended Electric Vehicle uses an electric motor, an advanced lithium-ion battery system, and a small gasoline engine with an integrated electric generator to produce additional energy to power the electric-drive system when needed. The 200 kW (268 horsepower) electric motor generates 400 N•m (295 lb.-ft.) of torque. With approximately eight gallons of gasoline, the Jeep EV has a range of 400 miles, including 40 miles of zero fuel-consumption, zero-emissions, all-electric operation.

The instant high torque of the electric-drive motor and the ability to precisely control each wheel independently results in off-road capability ideally suited for the Jeep brand, without compromising on-road driving capability.

Jeep Cherokee

Jeep Cherokee, 2008

The new Cherokee will launch in the UK in May 2008 with a choice of manual or automatic transmission and one equipment level - Jeep Cherokee Limited.

Inside, the all-new Jeep Cherokee Limited will feature a Luxury Leather Package which includes supple leather-trimmed seats featuring French-seam stitching. The passenger grab handle, console-storage cover and front-door trim panels also receive the same leather treatment, complete with the French-seam stitching. The parking brake handle and transmission shifter receive exclusive leather treatment, brushed stainless-steel door-sill plates welcome passengers, and the floor carpet is augmented with premium floor mats all as standard.

Standard features now include automatic temperature control system, tilt steering column, luxury leather-wrapped steering wheel, power and heated fold-away mirrors, power windows with driver-side one-touch, fog lamps and 17-inch aluminium wheels.

Classic Jeep Design
The exterior design of the all-new Jeep Cherokee takes its cues directly from the Jeep brand's legendary 65-plus years of heritage. Familiar design characteristics, such as the clamshell bonnet, seven-slot grille, trapezoidal wheel openings and rugged stance provide the vehicle with its classic Jeep style.

Standard across the range is the signature seven-slot grille. A front-end module that spans across the vehicle houses the grille and headlamp system in a single unit. The structure is designed to meet pedestrian impact and other crash standards for all markets. Front lamp modules contain halogen headlamps and standard fog lamps. The front fascia is body colour on all vehicles.

Industry-Exclusive Sky Slider Full-Open Canvas Roof
The all-new Jeep Cherokee brings the open-air experience with the industry-exclusive Sky Slider full-length open canvas roof. The Sky Slider roof can be moved to several positions, including full forward, full rear or partially open to any position in-between with a convenient express one-touch switch.

The Sky Slider roof is made of a reinforced acrylic cloth, similar to a convertible top, which is weather-resistant and leak-proof. The top panel nests into a weather strip seal to help minimise wind noise. The roof utilises anti-pinch software that will prevent the roof from moving should it detect an object in its path. The Sky Slider roof is an optional feature.

Functional Interior Space with More Available Amenities
The interior of the all-new Jeep Cherokee delivers simple, functional styling and provides customers with ample storage and organisational space.

Standard 60/40 split fold-flat rear seats and a fold-flat front-passenger seat are perfect for loading and hauling. The rear seats also incorporate a recline feature for more adjustment for passengers. The front and rear seats feature wide inserts and heavy bolstering designed to cradle occupants for a secure feeling. The seats have tall, square shoulders, and the bottom cushion has been lengthened for better thigh support. Leather, heated seats are standard on the Limited model.

Audio and Navigation Systems
The Jeep Cherokee is available with a variety of audio systems, and will offer the innovative MyGIG Multimedia Infotainment System that features built-in navigation, audio, entertainment and communication systems as an optional extra.

The voice dialogue system recognizes more than 100,000 words. The navigation system features both 2-D and 3-D bird's-eye views of roads and multiple route calculation alternatives. Maps and guidance are displayed on a motorized, flip-down 6.5-inch thin-film-transistor (TFT) colour display. The TFT screen uses an active matrix for viewing from angles up to 180 degrees - perfect for the centre of an instrument panel.

Cargo and Utility
There are several storage and convenience features designed into Jeep Cherokee's spacious rear cargo area.
Both left and right trim panels have cargo tie-down loops for securing items to the load floor. The left trim panel houses a concealed compartment for jack storage and tools.

The load floor system has a reversible carpeted surface. Dual latches on either side release for access to a 10-centimetre deep waterproof storage bin beneath the lid - perfect for muddy boots.

Economical and Powerful 2.8L CRD
The Jeep Cherokee is also available with a new 2.8-litre DOHC 16-valve common-rail turbo diesel engine. With its Variable Geometry Turbocharger (VGT) and rapid throttle response, this engine enables the Cherokee to claim best-in-class torque of 460 Nm (339 lb.-ft.) at 2,000 rpm with the five-speed automatic transmission, and best-in-class towing capacity of up to 2,800 kilograms and a driving range of 450 miles. Maximum power is 130 kW (177 hp DIN) at 3,800 rpm.

The new 2.8-litre CRD engine also provides a weight savings of approximately 6 per cent, achieves increased cam belt life (durability now of 140,000 kilometres) and features Piezo fuel injectors and a 2000-bar fuel system to improve fuel-system speed and control.

A forged steel crankshaft now features eight counterweights compared to the prior crankshaft which had four. A structural oil pan assists in reducing noise, vibration and harshness on the new engine.

The VGT now has an electronically controlled actuator as opposed to a pneumatic actuator on the previous engine. This provides improved cold launch performance, and it also allows the turbocharger to spool up faster from idle, minimising turbo lag and providing good low-end and high-end torque.

All-new Full-time Four-wheel-drive System
The all-new Selec-Trac II full-time four-wheel-drive system is standard on all Jeep Cherokee models. The Selec-Trac II four-wheel-drive system is a full-time, active on-demand system that anticipates and prevents wheel slip before it occurs. It is ideal for a wide range of road settings, including dry pavement conditions not typically suited for conventional part-time four-wheel-drive systems.
Electric shifting between 2WD, 4WD Auto and 4WD Low is accomplished with a console-mounted switch. A pushpin button is used to shift to Neutral mode.

Jeep-engineered Hill Descent Control
The same Jeep-engineered Hill Descent Control system introduced on the new Jeep Grand Cherokee is now available on the all-new Cherokee (with an automatic gearbox only). The system was designed to mimic the downhill control and flexibility afforded by the ultra-low gearing found in a Jeep Wrangler Rubicon with its 4:1 ratio transfer case and six-speed manual transmission. This gearing provides for six speeds of controlled hill descent.

Operational in the 4WD Low position, Hill Descent Control provides downhill assistance at a controlled rate of speed with more precision and smoother operation than simply using the brakes. By means of electronic brake control, Hill Descent Control supplements the gear reduction and engine braking that a traditional mechanical low-range transfer case provides. Unlike most of its competitors, the new Jeep Cherokee with Hill Descent Control offers extremely smooth transitions between speeds and allows the driver to use the throttle and brakes without turning the system off, with a smooth and controlled return to the preset speed after the driver releases the throttle or brakes.

Hill Descent Control is standard on all Jeep Cherokee models with automatic transmissions.

Proton Impian

Proton Impian, 2006

From the initial design sketches, through prototyping and development to production of the Proton Impian, first passenger car to be created entirely in Malaysia, Proton engineers have set out to reward owners with a driving experience in the highly competitive D sector that is second to none.

That they have succeeded is due in no small measure to a unique combination of engineering excellence and design flair. Proton's pragmatic approach to worldwide market requirements blends the best of Malaysian creativity with European engineering precision and Japanese manufacturing skills.

To create a safe and soothing environment for driver and passengers, Proton engineers have been supported by a Malaysian-based project team established by EDAG, the German body engineering specialists, while the Proton Impian's ride comfort and pin sharp handling reflect the silky skills of Lotus suspension tuning experts previously paraded in Proton's acclaimed Satria GTi.

The result is a car with clean, crisp styling that provides occupants with impressive safety standards and drivers with full control, no matter what the conditions. The reinforced body structure is among the strongest in its class, giving greater torsional rigidity for less body roll, better road-holding and a solid, European feel to the driving experience.

Setting even higher quality standards, the Proton Impian is manufactured using the latest modular construction techniques in a new factory alongside Proton's main plant at Shah Alam near Kuala Lumpur. Modular integration allows each module to be stronger and more rigid, at the same time reducing weight.

A state of the art emissions laboratory at the centre is fully approved by the UK's Road Transport Department Vehicle Certification Authority, while sophisticated suspension compliance and measurement rigs coupled with training from Lotus specialists has given Proton engineers the ability to achieve world-class ride and handling standards.

Malaysia's primary national car manufacturer has come a long way since the first Mitsubishi-based car rolled off the production line in 1985 and the Proton Impian personifies a new ambition to produce products that are technically advanced, great value and satisfying to drive.

Inner Strength
Thicker steel has been used to reinforce the entire body structure of the new car for maximum rigidity and reduced deformation in collisions. This has also helped to minimise road vibrations and noise transmitted through the suspension mountings.

A recyclable plastic fuel tank module is 15 per cent lighter than in previous Proton models and is designed to withstand a 30 mph rear impact from another vehicle. Modular construction is also used for the doors, front suspension assembly, strut and shock absorber mountings and for brake mountings.

Longer, wider and taller than the Proton Wira, the Proton Impian is also crucially 100 mm longer in the wheelbase. This adds up to more leg, head and shoulder room for added comfort. Spacious accommodation for up to five adults is supported by a wide, easy to load 15.5 cubic feet luggage compartment, which houses a space saving spare wheel and storage tray.

Safe and sure footed

Coil-sprung MacPherson strut front suspension and coil-sprung multilink rear suspension are enhanced by stabiliser bars to create the right balance between precise handling responses transmitted through rack and pinion progressive power steering and ride comfort.

In tuning the spring rates and dampers to achieve this goal, Lotus Engineering conducted exhaustive development work on steering effort and response, linearity, straight-line handling, cornering, lane changing, body control, wheel control and smoothness of ride before the Proton Impian was brought to market. The result is a car that scores eight A's in every facet of ride and handling.

In benchmark tests against such established and acclaimed D sector models as the Audi A4, Honda Accord and Vauxhall Vectra, the Proton Impian established a clear lead in overall ride and handling. With just 2.8 turns from lock to lock, steering response from the alloy wheels shod with 195/55R 15 tyres is direct and positive.

The driver's control of vehicle dynamics is further enhanced by the fitting of traction control as standard equipment to UK-spec cars. Dependable braking over all road surfaces is assured by 10in diameter disc brakes all round, ventilated at the front, plus four-wheel electronic ABS.

Flexible performance
Lower fuel consumption, noise and vibration levels, plus improved flexibility and response are delivered by the latest version of the lightweight Mitsubishi 1.6 litre 4G18 S4 petrol engine fitted to the new model.A plastic intake manifold and redesigned pistons, fuel injectors and distributor have saved space and reduced weight, while a new cooling system, engine stay and cylinder block reinforcement contribute to quieter running.

The four cylinder engine's design features improved cooling and lubrication of the cylinder block. A metal head gasket and wider timing belt ensure even better reliability and consumables such as transmission and engine oil, filters and spark plugs boast extended service intervals.

The new engine delivers increased power and torque than previous 1.6 engines used by Proton for enhanced driveability and economy, while emissions comply with European Step III regulations. Drive is either through a five-speed manual gearbox or optional four-speed electronic automatic transmission.

Safety and comfort
Ergonomic layout of all controls coupled with use of high quality materials in harmonious shades have dictated the design of the new model's passenger compartment. Fascia and seat styling reflects the latest thinking on interior design, with all functions within easy reach and view to help the driver maintain concentration on the road at all times.

Speedometer, tachometer and ancillary gauges monitoring water temperature and fuel level are positioned alongside a warning light panel directly ahead of the driver. Face level fresh air vents are positioned either side of the instrument panel and the driver's view ahead is protected from instrument glare by a stylish curved hood. Below the vents in the strategically-angled centre console are push button controls for secondary functions and a built-in stereo system, which has been ergonomically designed and acoustically tuned by Clarion specially for the Proton Impian.

Controls for the sound system are high mounted in the driver's field of vision to avoid driver distraction and push button controls for volume and station search are incorporated in the 14in. three spoke height adjustable steering wheel, which also houses an electronic driver's airbag.

Easy to use controls for the standard air conditioning are also to be found in the centre console, which sweeps down to incorporate an ashtray, cigarette lighter, cubby hole, gear shift, handbrake, cup holders and centre armrest concealing a storage bin. Ahead of the front passenger is a fascia-mounted airbag above the large glove compartment and both front seat occupants gain addition impact protection from side airbags.

Body hugging, reclining front seats with adjustable head restraints have 240 mm of fore and aft adjustment, while the driver's seat has hand controls to adjust seat height and lumbar support. Velour upholstery and deep pile carpeting is standard fitment, while the 1.6X is trimmed with Connolly leather upholstery.

Rear seats incorporating vertically adjustable head restraints and a folding central armrest feature 60/40 split and a child seat restraint anchorage. Moulded interior door trim conceals six-piece impact protection that complies with EU side impact safety requirements and windows are electrically powered front and rear. Finger-tip safety-touch controls for all four windows plus child-proof security lock are conveniently located for the driver in the front door armrest, while grab handles above each door and sun visors flush-fold into the moulded headlining.

Proton GEN-2

Proton GEN-2, 2004

Following Proton Berhad's acquisition of a 100 per cent controlling interest in Group Lotus Plc, personnel from the British sports car manufacturer's engineering division have been closely involved in the development programme of GEN-2; both at the Lotus headquarters in Hethel and at Proton's £62 million vehicle design and development centre in Malaysia.

Proton GEN-2 has been styled to attract a wider customer base; the Lotus Design Studio has had a major influence on the design of the curvy muscular bodywork that looks simply sensational in a range of new colours. From the bee sting aerial to the dashboard instrument panel, reminiscent of the Lotus roundel, the GEN-2's sporting pedigree is undeniable.

The 1.6 litre CAMPRO engine, designed in collaboration with Lotus, delivers exceptional torque output. The double overhead-camshaft engine produces 110bhp.

Power is matched by agility, with handling developed by Lotus. The Proton GEN-2 has outstanding stability when cornering and changing lanes, making it an exciting, responsive drive while maximising passenger comfort.

Sleek, sporty lines continue throughout the interior. The design combines ergonomic comfort with classic minimalism, while exclusive touches from Blaupunkt have brought fingertip controls to life.

Optimal protection is provided by increased body rigidity and strategic crumple zones. Four-wheel ABS on the GSX model ensures stability and good braking performance, whilst the Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) system prevents wheel lock up as the driver makes avoidance manoeuvres whilst braking.

Vauxhall VXR8

Vauxhall VXR8, 2007

Motoring enthusiasts across Britain mourned the passing of the Monaro. The only Australian-built car to be sold in the UK offered raw and exciting performance thanks to its 6.0-litre V8 and rear-wheel drive set up.

But the thunder from down under hasn't stopped yet - in fact it's only going to get louder. Vauxhall has announced the arrival of a new Aussie musclecar - the VXR8 - and it's more powerful and exciting than even the legendary Monaro.

The dramatic-looking new saloon is powered by the same 6.0-litre V8 as the outgoing Monaro VXR, but revisions to the engine have made it even more efficient. It now develops a massive 420PS and 550Nm of torque, giving it enough grunt to sprint from 0-60mph in just 4.9 seconds. No other supercar offers this sort of power for anywhere near the VXR8's price.

Yet the VXR8, based on Australia's Holden HSV Clubsport R8, offers more in the way of practicality than the outgoing Monaro, with four doors and space for all the family.

Though practical, with a spacious boot, comfortable, long-legged cruising ability and luxuries such as climate control and leather trim, the VXR8 is certainly no softie. Driver aids such as the stability system and traction control can be turned off at the flick of a switch - perfect for drivers who want to hone their skills on a track day!

And VXR8 goes as well as it stops, too, with powerful 365mm front disc brakes that slow the car down from 60mph to a standstill faster than a Lamborghini Murcielago or BMW M5.

In response to customer demand, the VXR8 will also be the first VXR model to be offered with an automatic gearbox. In order to maintain the control which VXR buyers require, the optional £1,400 self-shifter has a manual override and a sport setting which ensure the performance isn't blunted - in fact the auto is only half a second slower to 60mph than the manual!

Satellite navigation and 20-inch wheels will be offered as options for those who want to make their VXR8 look more distinctive and help find their way to the best driving roads. Even with all the option boxes ticked however, the VXR8 is still around half the price of other cars with comparable performance.