We have already brought to you some clear spyshots of the next generation Audi A8 which will come with lots of innovative features. Now more details are known about the car plus its debut time which will be next spring in 2010 during  Geneva Motor Show.

The new Audi A8 will be about 10cm longer than the current model and that means it’ll set a new standard for the space inside the cabin.  To achieve this, the front axle had to move forward by 15cm which is also good for weight distribution. Of course rear passengers will benefit the most from this space increment.

As for styling, the new car will get only subtle changes specially at the front where the Audi grille is bigger than ever and the new headlights are equipped with daytime LED lights. The whole body is also more curvy and sleek than the current design.

And as for mechanics, 2010 Audi A8 has some new features to offer. The basic version will come with a front-wheel-drive system and a CVT gearbox connected to a six-cylinder 2.8 liter engine. The big A8 will also be available with a twin-turbocharged four-cylinder engine! And inevitably, a hybrid variant would come out later on. You still get the big V8 with the top of the range model, so don’t despair!

source: AMS

This new baby Roller formerly codenamed 200EX, was unveiled at 2009 Geneva Motor show as a concept. Now Rolls Royce puts the production version of it officially named ‘Ghost’ on display at the Concorso D’eleganza. It’s a scaled down version of the mighty Phantom ( it’s still 5.4 meters long!) and is powered by a 6.6 liter V12 engine developing 507 hp.

Don’t get it wrong though, it hasn’t become a sporty, it’s still a full blooded Roller. Check out the interior :

Audi has a habit of making a roadster version of every single model they launch! No wonder if they make a Q7 Cabrio! Anyway, the new TT-RS is no exception. The coupe version was revealed at the Geneva Motor show, and the top less model will debut at Leipzig Motor show in Germany next week.

Of course Audi had released all the technical data and pictures of the roadster before. It is powered by the same 5 cylinder turbocharged engine developing 340 hp, but is a bit ,understandably, slower than the coupe. It takes 4.7 seconds to reach 100 km/h and is electronically limited to 250 km/h. However with a bit of tweaking it can reach 280!

It’s got all the ingredients of the hardtop, more aggressive face, lower firmer suspension, bigger brakes, 18 inch rims, a wing and twin tailpipes, to mention a few. But it will be more expensive than the coupe which recently launched in Austria for a whopping 64,000 euros.

Audi also will bring the new Allroad Quattro and R8 V10 to the Leipzig show.

via : AMUS

The new baby Roller has been recently revealed at Geneva Motorshow and now comes some of the details about the production version of the car.

The 200 EX or RR4 or whatever they gonna call it, is supposed to be a nimbler more dynamic version of the Phantom. Actually in comparison to the Phantom you can call it sporty!

Probably the most important thing about RR4 is the brand new turbocharged V12 engine (which is from BMW). At 6.6 liter it generates more than 500 hp, that is 50 hp more than the old V12 in Phantom. It uses a ZF transmission like its bigger brother, but it has two more gears. It’s an eight-speed now! which sounds like too much.

With more power and gears and of course less weight, the baby Roller seems to be in a way different league of driving feel than the rest of its family, which is odd for Rolls Royce, isn’t it? What is the point of a sporty Roller?! And what’s the point of a Rolls Royce if it expects YOU to drive it often, and not your chauffeur?

The car will be launched in late 2009. It’s currently has gone on a world tour, a kind of marketing move in which it visits Singapore (3-4 April), Miami (19-20 May), LA (26-28 May), London (9-11 June) and Cannes (2-4 July).

You have probably heard of this only Iranian made car, the Samand, as it was on display at recently finished Geneva Motorshow. Now feast your eyes on the Golden Samand!

Ordered by a Russian Millionaire for whatever reason he’d thought of (collection maybe!), this Samand has undergone some very expensive cosmetic surgery and had its hood, doors and fenders covered in pure 24 carat gold! Also the floor is covered with very fine Iranian carpet and dashboard is garnished with Iranian handcraftsmanship. The car reportedly has cost its owner a million dollar! Well, I’d rather spend that on a Bugatti Veyron!

The golden Samand was supposed to remain a secret but its delivery truck, on its way to Russia, crashed in Tehran, and like that the cover was broken!

source: tabnak.ir

Dacia is going to put their first Crossover vehicle into production and that would be the Duster which you have seen at Geneva Motorshow. The Duster concept design is way too ambitious for a car maker like Dacia, so definitely the production version won’t look like this!

But its clever folding seats will remain as its main feature, and to be honest that is the only feature it’s got! The rest of it is just a boring economy car, with options of a 1.5 liter diesel (103hp) or two gasoline engines, 1.6 liter (105hp) and 2.0 liter (170hp). Also it is available with either two or four wheel drive.

Possibly, the production car will debut at 2010 Geneva show.

via Autocar

The Murcielago LP670 SV was the star of 2009 Geneva Motorshow, but Lamborghini also has been developing a secret roadster which is just as magnificent…

The limited edition LP650-4 had been revealed earlier by the internet but it’s now officially announced by the guys from Santa Agata. The roadster is 20 hp weaker then the SV but still 10 hp stronger than the LP640, if you are that sorta person who cares about numbers too much then here you are : 0-62mph in 3.4 seconds and top speed of 205mph!

To be brutley honest, it looks exactly the same as the 640 roadster, only new bespoke paintjob and trimming set it apart. The Grey color of body is combined with some orange parts which makes it fascinating and also in the cabin, the leather and alcantara upholstery beside the orange flappy gear shifters are in good harmony with the exterior.

2010 Lamborghini Murcielago LP650-4 Roadster will only be made in 50 units.

Press Release:

Lamborghini releases first images of the Murciélago LP 650-4 Roadster

Automobili Lamborghini has released the first photographs of a limited edition Murciélago LP 650-4 Roadster.

The Roadster version of the Murciélago will offer an uprated 6.5 litre V12 engine that produces 650 hp (478 kW) along with permanent four-wheel drive: hence the model’s LP 650-4 moniker. With 660 Nm of torque, top performance is at 0-100km/h (0-62mph) in 3.4 seconds. The top speed is around 330 Km/h (205mph).

The special edition model will be produced in a limited volume (50 units only), with a Grigio Telesto exterior that combines grey bodywork with a special bright orange Arancio LP 650-4 featured on the front spoiler and sills. The LP 650-4 logo applied to the car’s exterior is recognition of the car’s increased power. The car features orange brake calipers and a transparent V12-engine cover, which shows off the V12 engine behind the driver.

Interior features echo the car’s striking grey-and-orange exterior: besides the orange touches, there is an asymmetric dash design, with black Alcantara Nera on the driver’s side, including door panel and central tunnel, and black leather Nero Perseus on the passenger’s side.

The increased power of the Murciélago engine, from 640 to 650 hp, will be unique to the Murciélago LP 650-4 Roadster: it demonstrates even further the developments that Lamborghini is able to offer from a current engine, and creates the exclusive characteristic of the Murciélago LP 650-4 Roadster.

The Porsche tuning part of Rinspeed is fully back in business with Mansory money and this is their latest product after Chopster and Cayenne 955. The 997 tuning program has been unveiled at Geneva Motorshow and now Mansory released more details about it.

For now this is only a bodykit, mechanical upgrades only include a sport air filter and upgraded exhaust, but like always, it is an exclusive job by Mansory. Extensive use of carbon fiber inside and out not only gives better look but also help with weight reduction, and those flaps and ducts and wings are not there just to look good, they also make the car more aerodynamic efficient.

Interior trimming might look a bit odd, but for those who are familiar with Rinspeed this is not a surprise! They also give the car new 20 inch Mansory design wheels with Michelin Pilot Sport tyres (245/30 front and 325/25 at the rear).

Press Release

High-quality refining programme for the new Porsche 911 by MANSORY Switzerland
World premier at the 79th Geneva Auto Salon 2009
The company Mansory is situated in Bavaria and one of the top addresses for refining premium sports cars. Whether Bentley, Rolls-Royce, McLaren, Ferrari or Porsche – the refining specialist shows its technical talent for every automobile. The subsidiary company Mansory Switzerland AG, the in-house expert for Porsche cars, presents a comprehensive tuning programme for the model 911 from the recently revived Porsche Type 997 series at the Geneva Auto Salon 2009. This tuning programme mainly focuses on improvements concerning the aerodynamics, engine performance and handling of this sports car icon.
Modular spoiler pack allows various design possibilities
When developing the 911-programme, the Mansory engineers attached great importance to an individual design, but also aerodynamic efficiency. In order to save weight and guarantee highest quality standards, the body components are made of PU-RIM. Also, parts of the serial auto body are made of this resilient and inherently stable material. The core part of the body kit is a lift-reducing front mount in a sportive-dynamic look. In connection with the hood, the front apron offers various design possibilities. On the one hand, it forms the perfect symbiosis with the serial hood, as an especially designed inlay allows a seamless junction. And on the other hand, the apron can be combined with the Mansory carbon hood whose striking side beads demonstrate individuality and underline the sportive character of the modification. The rear apron is not less impressive: it accommodates the new fourpipe exhaust system and therefore renders a harmonic rear finish. The visual perfection of the aerodynamics pack is accomplished with the side skirts which also fulfil functional tasks. They significantly calm the air flow between both axles.
Sport air filter and amended exhaust system enhance the performance
The power engines also profit from the comprehensive changes of the 911 engine range. But here, the engineers do not perform any excessive open-heart surgery, but only replace existing parts by modified proprietary developments. A new sport air filter and a new exhaust system come into operation. Especially the exhaust system renders an optimised exhaust gas flow. This enable the 911 to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h even faster than the serial versions.
But the special highlight of the exhaust system is the integrated throttle system which – if desired – can also be operated by remote control and allows changing the sound scenery.
Light alloy rims and sport running gear in approved MANSORY quality The refining specialist developed a forged wheel with an exclusive design which was tailor-made for Porsche requirements. The one-piece wheel with five double spokes measures 8.5 x 20 inches at the front and 12 x 20 inches the back. Not only its sportive look, but also its excellent manufacture makes it so impressive. The reduction of unsprung masses by the exceptional and elaborate production technology does not only lead to a shorter braking distance, but also improves the acceleration and the handling of the car. For best possible grip, Mansory uses
Michelin Pilot Sport wheels sized 245/30 at the front and 325/25 at the rear. Moreover, the newly developed running gear which lowers the car´s centre of gravity by 30 millimetres also sets sportive accents.
Interior programme for exclusive tastes
The crowning finale to the Mansory Porsche refinement is the interior applications. Of course, only the most precious materials are used. The leather, e.g. for the seats and the dashboard, is extremely resilient, but still enormously soft. With its individual graining and the perfectly applied decorative stitching, the newly designed sport steering-wheel and its environment render an extravagant impression. In order to emphasise the dynamic character even more, Mansory customers can equip their interior with anti-skip aluminium pedals and real carbon components.

At Geneva Motorshow Maserati unveiled a softer version of the Gran Turismo S with a 6-speed ZF automatic gearbox.  The 440 hp GT-S is the perfect machine to cover long distances in comfort and style. Here’s the official promotional video of the car.

Beside the eRUF Greenster, the German tuner RUF brought the Dakara to 2009 Geneva Motorshow. Dakara is a Porsche Cayenne with the 911 face. We are trying very hard now to get the point of this car!!

For sure it’s not a cosmetic surgery because it looks even worse than the original Cayenne! Anyway, Dakara features a turbocharged V8 with 441 hp and 890 Nm of torque which is available at low rpms, that means it can do 0-100 in 4.8 seconds. It is also upgraded in chassis and suspension and brakes to cope with the performance. So it is not a desert bashing off roader to win the Dakar rally either, as its name may suggest! It’s more like a high-riding 911, If so, what’s the problem with the Cayenne?! it certainly looks better and will cost much less!

They might have done it as a technical showcase, but RUF does not need that! We all know what they are capable of. I’m sorry but this car makes no sense at all! They’ve just waste their (and our) time!

The new Rolls Royce 200EX, aka Baby Roller, has been unveiled at Geneva Motorshow and here comes the first official video of it. A scaled-down version of the Phantom which is built on BMW 7-series platform and is supposed to extend Rolls Royce market.

The car uses a 500 hp V12 and offers the same level of luxury and passion as the its dad but for a more affordable price. It is the first Roller which is meant to be driven than to be driven in!

This is the video of the Koenigsegg Quant Concept during its unveiling at Geneva Motorshow. Normally electric concept are really boring so we don’t waste time on them, but this one matters because if their words about the 512hp or 275kmh or the range or charging time turn out to be true, we are looking at a revolution here! It would crush the Tesla roadster and become the new symbol of the green supercars. Of course it won’t be anytime soon until a prototype comes out. Read more about the car HERE .

This is the first video of the latest edition of Maybach, the Zeppelin. Available in both 57 and 62 variants, the Zeppelin treatment takes the luxury to the next level! Also, it is powered by the refined V12 engine with 640 horsepower. See for yourself what you’ll get in this extensive 8 minute video.

Maybach Zeppelin live pictures from Geneva:

At 2009 Geneva Motorshow Ferrari presents two new variants of the 599 GTB Fiorano, one with the HGTE handling package and the other, this 599XX which is a stripped out hardcore track-ready car. The XX to 599 is what FXX was to Enzo.

These are track-only cars for a special group of customers who wants to enjoy a proper racing experience in style! And the car is prepared well for this purpose. The V12 engine in 599XX is re-tuned to develop 700 hp and it revs up to 9,000 rpm!

As mentioned earlier the car is stripped out so it is extremely light weight, and with this much power it’d be a bit of a handful for non-pro drivers. That’s why Ferrari provides organized events for the clients where they will be instructed by professional factory drivers. In some of the FXX events last year, Loca Di Montezemelo, president of Ferrari, himself appeared to cheer up their special customers!

The 599XX tours will start from 2010.

Press Release

Ferrari at Geneva with the HGTE package for the 599 GTB Fiorano and the world premiere of the 599XX

599XX

While based on the 599 GTB Fiorano with the same transaxle layout and engine type, this prototype is an extreme track car. Ferrari’s engineers have carried out extensive work on the engine’s combustion chambers and inlet and exhaust tracts. These modifications, combined with the fact that internal attrition has been reduced and the maximum revs have been boosted to 9,000 rpm, helped achieve the target power output of 700 hp at 9,000 rpm. Particular attention was also paid to cutting the weight of the engine unit components. This was achieved both by optimising forms – as in the new crankshaft – and adopting exclusive materials, as in the carbon-fibre used for the intake plenums. A new gearbox shift strategy cuts overall gearchange times to 60 ms.

The 599XX is characterised by an innovative electronic concept called the “High Performance Dynamic Concept” which has been designed to get the maximum performance from the car by managing the combination of the car’s mechanical limits with the potential of its electronic controls. The mechanical and electronic systems work together to get the maximum performance from the car under extreme high performance driving, for consistent lap times. The sporty handling has been improved thanks to the adoption of second generation SCM suspension system. Track usage is also made easier thanks to the new “virtual car engineer”, a screen in the car that provides a real-time indication of the vehicle’s efficiency.

The 599XX’s aerodynamics were honed in numerous wind tunnel test sessions with the result that the car now boasts 280 kg of downforce at 200 km/h (630 kg at 300 km/h). The front underside of the body is completely faired-in and the vents that channel hot air from the engine bay have been moved to the bonnet.

The “Actiflow” system increases downforce and/or cuts drag depending on the car’s trim cornering conditions, courtesy of the use of a porous material in the diffuser and two fans in the boot which channel the air flow from under the car out through two grilles next to the tail-lights. Winglets have been added to the rear buttresses to increase downforce. while synthetic jets have also been incorporated into the rear of the car to control and smooth the air flow and to reduce drag.
Ferrari’s engineers have also used F1-derived “doughnuts” which partly cover the brake discs and wheel rim. These have the dual function of improving both aerodynamics and brake cooling.

In terms of the bodywork, composites and carbon-fibre have been widely used and the engineers drew on their experience in working with aluminium to reach the weight target. The development of increasingly high-performance materials has also benefited the carbon-ceramic material braking system. The brake pads are now made from carbon-fibre which means that the calipers are smaller whilst guaranteeing the same efficiency. The new racing carbon ceramic braking system also delivers shorter braking distances and is generally more efficient due to the weight saving.

The 599XX comes with slick tyres (29/67 R19 Front and 31/71 R19 Rear) specifically developed to maximise stability in cornering and increase lateral acceleration. They are fitted to 19 x 11J wheel rims at the front and 19 x 12J at the rear.

Land Rover introduces a limited edition of the Range Rover at 2009  Geneva Motorshow along with an updated version of the LR2 Freelander. The “Westminster” Range is basically a Vouge with new 20-inch Diamond Turned wheels and some exterior tweaks.

The car features a number of unique paintjobs and also special trimming for the interior but uses a TDV8 diesel engine! They will only make 300 units of this and the Westminster badge on the tailgate is the only way to tell it from normal Range Rovers. It goes on sale from March and prices start from start from £62,995 (£63,995 for Marina Black paintjob)

The LR2 Freelander also gets a fresh update for the new year. All diesel models will get the start-stop system which betters fuel economy (42.2 mpg). A bunch of new features are now available for the LR2 such as remote locking, seven airbags, auxiliary audio jack, Roll Stability Control (RSC) and Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), changes in ‘GS’ and ‘XS’ trim levels add a hands-free Personal Telephone Integration (PTI) Bluetooth® system, Alpine In-Car Entertainment (ICE) and heated front seats.

Prices for the new LR2 starts from £21,295 up to £32,595 for the loaded version. Details on each model in the press release below…

Press Release

LAND ROVER DEBUTS LATEST RANGE AT THE 2009 GENEVA MOTOR SHOW

Land Rover is to show the new Range Rover ‘Westminster’ Limited Edition together with the 2010 model year Freelander 2 at the Geneva Motor Show, starting today.

300 Range Rover TDV8 ‘Westminster’ editions will go on sale at Land Rover dealerships in the UK from the end of March. The unique ‘Westminster’ features include 20″ Diamond Turned wheels, an exterior design pack, ‘Westminster’ tailgate badging, half wood steering wheel and stainless steel accents to the brake and accelerator pedals.

It is available in either Santorini Black or Stornoway Grey with Ivory/Jet or Jet/Jet interior colour ways from £62,995, or with a distinctive limited edition metallic paint colour called Marina Black from £63,995 on the road.

John Edwards, Land Rover UK managing director said: “The dramatic visual impact of the ‘Westminster’ coupled with the Range Rover’s supreme breadth of capability and acclaimed TDV8 diesel powertrain, makes this edition an exceptionally enticing proposition.”

Also on the Land Rover stand will be the revised 2010 model year Freelander 2, featuring the acclaimed intelligent stop/start system now standard on all diesel manual Freelander 2 TD4_e’s providing a combined cycle of 42.2mpg and 179g/km of CO2.

The 2010 Freelander 2 includes remote central locking, seven airbags, two ISOFIX points, power steering, heated and electrically adjustable door mirrors, air conditioning, auxiliary audio jack, Roll Stability Control (RSC) and Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) as standard.

The Freelander 2 10MY line-up also offers modified trim-levels to the ‘GS’ and ‘XS’ specifications including a hands-free Personal Telephone Integration (PTI) Bluetooth® system, Alpine In-Car Entertainment (ICE) and heated front seats. In addition there are two new exterior colours: Bali Blue, replacing Martinique Blue and Ipanema Sand, replacing Nazca Sand (available from June 2009) and a new interior colour of Storm grey.

The new pricing and standard features are now as follows:

TD4_e ‘S’	TD4_e ‘GS’	TD4_e ‘XS’	TD4_e ‘HSE’
16″ alloy wheels, single CD with six speakers, Intelligent stop/start, cloth seats, air conditioning, heated and electrically adjustable door mirrors, two ISOFIX points, auxiliary  audio jack, remote central locking, power steering, Roll Stability Control (RSC) and Dynamic Stability Control (DSC).	As ‘S’ plus: 17” 6-spoke alloy wheels, Alpine® ICE with eight speakers, Automatic Climate Control, remote ICE controls, loadspace cover, automatic headlamps, rain sensing windscreen wipers, cruise control, fog lamps and power wash, rear Park Distance Control (PDC), powerfold mirrors, Terrain Response®, Bluetooth® phone system.	As ‘GS’ plus: 17” 10-spoke alloy wheels, cloth/ leather seats with electric adjustment, front PDC, Satin Silver metallic finishers, heated front screen and washer jets, heated front seats, auto dimming rear view mirror, DVD touch screen navigation system.	As ‘XS’ plus: 18” alloy wheels, Premium Napoli leather electrically adjustable seats with memory pack, six CD Dolby™ Pro Logic Surround Sound ICE, DAB radio, Dark Laurel wood effect finishers, carpet mats and covered stowage, humidity sensing climate control, body coloured side sills, rear roof mounted spoiler, electric front sunroof with fixed rear panoramic roof, rear centre armrest with cup-holders.
£21,295 OTR	£24,525 OTR	£27,995 OTR	£32,595 OTR

Optional extras include automatic transmission for £1,380.85, Satellite Navigation System (on ‘GS’) for £1468.09, DAB radio (on ‘S’, ‘GS’ and ‘XS’) at £195.74 and an Alpine Dolby Prologic II 7.1 surround sound audio system, with radio and six-disc in-dash CD changer and 13 speakers (on ‘GS’ and ‘XS’) for £1022.77.

source: Worldcarfans

The revival of Aston Martin Lagonda, the car that was supposed to be an ultra luxury saloon based on the Mercedes S-class has turned out to be a big 4×4 based on Mercedes GL!  Aston shocked everyone by revealing their first monstrous SUV. What we have here is the biggest surprise of 2009 Geneva Motorshow.

It is quit a recipe though, a V12 4×4 SUV which seats only four people inside and is the Aston Martin’s ambassador as it will go on sale in more than 100 countries, expanding the company’s image. Built on Mercedes GL platform, the Lagonda should not have any problem in the technical side, however it features a controversial design, which is odd. Because Aston Martin design is always bang on, always as great as possible without compromise, but the Lagonda, not only is strange for an Aston, it redefines styling cues of the SUV segment! It is not bad really, but for sure it will put up some controversy.

Not much details yet as it’s unveiled only some hours ago, but we keep you posted…

Press Release

Lagonda: Revival of a Luxury Brand

Aston Martin is proud to announce the return of Lagonda, one of the oldest and most iconic names in luxury car manufacturing.

The revival of Lagonda fulfils a long-term vision and will bring performance luxury into new markets and territories around the world for Aston Martin Lagonda. Ultimately, Lagonda will be a strong presence in 100 global territories, vastly increasing the global brand reach of the company and extending to new customers.

Reflecting its remarkable history, the brand will return to Russia, enter emerging markets in the Middle East, South America, India and China, as well as responding to demand from the dynamic, innovation-focused consumers of Europe, North America and the Far East.

“The Lagonda is the luxury car of the future,” says Aston Martin Lagonda Chief Executive, Dr Ulrich Bez, “a combination of total usability, a new form and innovative new technology and materials.”

Lagonda is committed to innovative new propulsion technologies, new materials and elegant forms, creating a functional luxury for the near future. Critically, the brand will allow the exploration of alternative powertrain solutions including flexfuel, low emission diesel and hybrid systems. Lagonda will epitomise the intersection of craft, design and technology with Aston Martin’s established high performance expertise.

The intention is for Lagonda to enter the market place with a unique performance avant-garde luxury product, a vehicle that combines exceptional ability with unsurpassed elegance, inside and out. The LAGONDA CONCEPT is a powerful four-wheel drive, four-seater car that will satisfy the most discerning and demanding owner.

“An Aston Martin is an authentic, pure sports car,” says Dr Ulrich Bez, “but Lagonda is something else, a new brand that will reach into new markets. Lagonda will create a new kind of customer relationship, instilling the spirit of travel, adventure and style into a single, formidable package.

At this year’s Geneva Motorshow there are two new editions of the Bugatti Veyron on stage which neither of them are not premiers! Well it’s the first time they are making public appearance but both of them have been spotted before in UAE! The Mansory Linea Vincero has been seen many months ago in a dealership in Abu dhabi and the Bleu Centenaire was seen in Dubai as a one-off model under a different name with different rims.

Nevertheless, it’s always a joy to see the Veyron in different clothes. Specially the Vincero. A unique job by Mansory with 1109 hp and 1310 nm. You can read more about the car HERE.

The Bleu Centenaire is a model to mark the company’s 100th anniversary and features two-tone matte and gloss finish along with some unique touches to set it apart from normal Veyrons, such as polished anodized-aluminum rear view mirrors, mesh grille inserts, exclusive Centenaire wheels, and bright red brake-callipers.

The asking price for Mansory Vincero is so scary better not to be mentioned! but the Bleu Centenaire is yours for 1,35 Million Euro.

Mansory Bugatti Veyron Linea Vincero live pictures @ Geneva:

Bugatti Bleu Centenaire:

Vincero pictures via : Autogespot

The Swedish supercar maker Koenigsegg is really keen to make the ultimate green supercar and has shown this interest before by making 1000+ hp Ethanol powered CCXs. This time they have teamed up with a company called NLV Solar AG to make a powerful four seater electric car, sounds like an odd pairing!

Koenigsegg claims that their Quant concept with its ground braking FAES (Flow Accumulator Energy Storage) technology can produce 512 bhp and 715 Nm of torque, reach 275 kmh, gives a 500 km range and re-charges in only 20 minutes! And although it weighs 1780 kg, it accelerates to 100kmh in 5.2 seconds. It all sound too good to be true and you know as it’s the case with electric cars, big numbers never really worked in real world. But the Koenigsegg is one helluva company capable of doing anything! They are going to show a full-scale model at Geneva Motorshow and also they are preparing production prototypes! We have to wait until these prototypes come out and go under real world testing to see if it’s any good. More technical details follows after the pictures:

Swedish supercar marque Koenigsegg and NLV Solar AG, a pioneer in photovoltaics and accumulator technology, have joined forces to create the Koenigsegg Quant Concept. The brainchild of this marriage of power and energy is a four-seater solar electric car. A full-scale model is to be unveiled at the 2009 Geneva Salon, with the two companies currently working on running prototypes to scale up for series production.

Two companies, one vision

The project was born when NLV Solar AG commissioned the environmentally aware Swedish supercar manufacturer Koenigsegg to develop and design a “car of the future”, incorporating NLV Solar’s groundbreaking, proprietary technology in the felds of photovoltaics and accumulators.

In 2008, the two companies signed a co-operation agreement to create a test vehicle for a unique propulsion system which makes optimum use of the solar technologies developed by NLV Solar AG, allied with an innovative accumulator unit. The groundbreaking thin-flm solar-cell coating is being implemented in one of Koenigsegg’s signature avant-garde designs.

Groundbreaking technology

The advances in electric power generation and storage, combined with the aerodynamic, futuristic Koenigsegg design and engineering, will enable the NLV Quant to charge the FAES (Flow Accumulator Energy Storage) to full capacity in 20 minutes and give the vehicle a range of 500 kilometres. The additional power input from the invisible, thin-flm photovoltaic coating that covers the body of the car, further increases the range potential.

The revolutionary solar and FAES systems enable the design of a fully electrical vehicle, rather than relying on more commonplace hybrid solutions. This also simplifes the drive train layout and packaging, as only one propulsion system is needed.

Given the size of the The NLV Quant, it has an unusually low frontal surface of around 2 m2. This, combined with a drag coeffcient of around CD 0.27 and the effciency of the FAES, will enable the car to cover long distances between charges.

Style and substance

The ingenious Koenigsegg design provides a unique blend of supercar looks and the space of a traditional luxury sedan. The car will carry four large adults in comfort and also feature a spacious boot at the rear.

The gull-wing doors set the NLV Quant apart from any other four-seaters on the market. As well as being a stylish feature, they also make entry to the car more ergonomic, thanks to the lack of B-pillars. They provide easy access to both the front and rear passenger seats. The unique split side-lite feature allows all passenger to open and close the front and rear side windows separately, despite the fact that there is only one door per side.

Unique features as standard

The NLV Quant is rear-wheel drive, with four-wheel brake regeneration, ABS and ESP. It is powered by two electrical AC induction electric motors with variable frequency drive and in-line planetary step down drive, one for each rear wheel. The twin-motor design eliminates the need for bevel gears or a differential, further simplifying the lay-out and giving constant and controlled power proportioning to the rear wheels, in both drive and coast mode.

The projected curb weight of 1780 kg is very light considering that it is a battery-powered, four-seater, luxury performance car. This is partly due to the two-motor installation which weighs in at only 140 kg – a remarkable achievement considering the power output of 512 hp and maximum torque of 715 nm which allows the Koenigsegg Quant Concept to deliver 0-100 km/h in 5.2 seconds and hit a top speed of 275 km/h. Another reason for the car’s low weight is the utilisation of a carbon-fibre monotube backbone chassis, construction, which houses the FAES system safely inside the centreline of the car at the lowest possible position, bringing down the centre of gravity and central mass point. The FAES only weigh around 450 kg and contain no hazardous material or heavy metals.

Features

• Range of up to 500 km thanks to the new FAES technology, with rapid charging and unlimited charging cycles
• Thin-flm photovoltaic coating of car body
• Asynchronous motor technology
• Minimised running and manufacturing costs thanks to new technology
• Optimised safety
• Carbon chassis and Aluminium/carbon body.
• Unique/functional design, vehicle comfort and loading capacity

Preliminary Specs

• Power: 512 bhp
• Torque: 715 Nm
• 0-100 km/h: 5.2 seconds
• Top speed: 275 km/h
• Curb weight: 1780 kg
• Wheelbase 3102 mm
• Track
  • Front: 1730 mm
  • Rear: 1729 mm
• Wheels/Tires
  • Front: 245/35 – 22″
  • Rear: 265/35 – 22″
  • low friction tires by Michelin
• Width: 2016 mm incl rear-view mirrors
• Length: 4879 mm
• Height: 1335 mm
• Rear-wheel drive
• Four-wheel brake regeneration
• Minimum 6 smart airbags, ABS and ESP
• 3 infotainment panels(one in front, two for the rear)
• Adjustable rear seats
• 3 zone Climate Control system
• Large leg room in the rear
• LED front and rear lights
• Body covered in NLV photovoltaic thin flm solar coating
• NLV mobile redox Flow Accumulator Energy Storage system – FAES
• Space for 4 full grown individuals
• Price: TBD

The Latest edition of Lamborghini Murcielago is a SV model which in simple words means it is really fast! The car has been launched at Geneva Motorshow floor and here’s the details and live pictures for your joy. The 670 SV features a truly flamboyant body, which is about 100kg lighter than the LP640 and it also packs more power. The result is plain to see…

With the 6.5 liter V12 now developing 670 horsepower the car accelerates to 60mph from stand still in just 3.2 seconds, but speed varies with or without the huge rear wing. If you opt for it you’ll get more downforce and better handling but have to live with only 209mph, but if you choose the smaller wing you’ll be able to reach 212! That makes a difference!

As usual, the interior is trimmed with carbon fiber and alcantara which not only look cool but help to keep the weight low. It has saved around 34kg in the SV. The Murcielago LP670-4 Superveloce is set for limited production run of only 350 units, that means it is already a future classic.

Press Release

Lamborghini Murciélago LP 670-4 SuperVeloce – the new king of the bulls is even more powerful, lighter and faster

The Lamborghini Murciélago is one of the most extraordinary super sports cars of all time. Automobili Lamborghini has now expanded its model range with a new, exceptionally purist and even more extreme top model – the Murciélago LP 670-4 SuperVeloce is even more powerful, lighter and faster than the Murciélago LP 640. With the output of the 6.5 liter V12 increased to 670 hp and a weight reduction of 100 kg (220 lbs), the Murciélago LP 670-4 SuperVeloce boasts a power-to-weight ratio of 2.3 kg (5.1 lbs) per hp. This catapults it from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in a breathtaking 3.2 seconds and powers it on to a top speed of around 342 km/h (212 mph). Distinctive design refinements ensure that each of this 350-unit limited edition series conveys its full potential from the very first glance.

With its outstanding performance, razor-sharp precision and exceptional high-speed stability, the Lamborghini Murciélago LP 670-4 SuperVeloce is the ultimate performance car for advanced sports car drivers. The super sports car has been extensively redesigned with a new front and rear, an innovative engine bonnet and a choice of two aerodynamic set-ups featuring either a small or large rear spoiler. The interior in Alcantara and carbon fiber provides a purist and minimalist approach.

In order to achieve the substantial weight reduction of 100 kilograms (220 lbs), the Murciélago LP 670-4 SuperVeloce was extensively reworked and redeveloped in virtually every aspect – from chassis to engine and transmission, right through to the interior. The increase in engine output from 640 to 670 hp is the result of optimized valve timing and a reworked intake system. The significantly modified aerodynamics with substantially increased downforce brings considerable improvement to vehicle stability at very high speeds. With the small standard-fit rear spoiler, top speed stands at 342 km/h (212 mph), while the large “Aeropack Wing” and its added downforce gives a top speed of 337 km/h (209 mph).

“The new Murciélago LP 670-4 SuperVeloce is the systematic continuation of our brand philosophy. It is more extreme and uncompromising than virtually any other automobile,” says Stephan Winkelmann, President and CEO of Automobili Lamborghini. “As the new top model of the highly successful Murciélago range, the SuperVeloce displays not only outstanding driving dynamics, it is also further evidence of our company’s technological expertise. Customers can look forward to an utterly unparalleled driving experience.”

Design and aerodynamics

The Murciélago is an icon of the Lamborghini brand – a sports machine of menacing character and brutal power. Its unique design radiates a supreme form of highly concentrated sensuality. Wide, low, with its glass area pushed way forward and a long, taut back – the interplay between the soft contours of the basic form and razor sharp edges is the perfect expression of the Lamborghini design language. In the totality of its character, the Murciélago is without comparison on the sports car market.

Yet even a character like this can be further refined – the new Lamborghini Murciélago LP 670-4 SuperVeloce is the more extreme, even more purist pinnacle of the model range. This is clearly evident from the very first glimpse of its completely redesigned front end – pulled way forward and finished in matt black paint, the carbon fiber front spoiler is connected to the front end via two vertical elements. The large air intakes for the front brakes are more powerfully emphasized. The new front fenders feature additional air intakes for brake ventilation. The air vent for the oil cooler located in the driver-side sill area is painted matt black to match the sills.

The modifications are even more apparent around the mighty engine bay of the Murciélago LP 670-4 SuperVeloce. The twelve-cylinder engine is presented as an engineering masterpiece under a transparent engine bonnet that boasts a completely new architecture. Hexagonal polymer plates made from transparent polycarbonate are set on three levels within a carbon fiber framework. The layers are open towards the rear, playing a key role in the thermodynamics of the high-performance engine.

The impressive rear end of the SuperVeloce is dominated by a veritably noble, flat and extremely wide exhaust tailpipe and, on the underside, by a two-level diffuser system finished entirely in carbon fiber. The rear light clusters display their signals in that distinctive Y-shape that has been a fixed element of Lamborghini design since the Murciélago LP 640, Reventón and Gallardo LP 560-4. The panel between the lights is made from carbon fiber, while the large intake mesh below expands across the full width of the rear end. Made from thick-walled aluminum, the hexagonal pattern is laser-cut and a Teflon coating provides the necessary heat protection.

The aerodynamics of the Murciélago LP 670-4 SuperVeloce have been completely redeveloped. Alongside the enlarged front spoiler and the twin rear diffuser, the new fixed rear spoiler also plays an important role. Customers can choose between two versions, with the small rear spoiler providing improved downforce at high speeds. As an option, the Murciélago LP 670-4 SuperVeloce can be supplied with the “Aeropack Wing” – a large, fixed, carbon-fiber wing mounted on two carbon-fiber brackets. The new aerodynamic set-up provides a significant boost to directional stability at the very highest speeds. The top-speed downforce on the Murciélago LP 670-4 SuperVeloce with Aeropack is strongly increased.

Bodyshell and lightweight construction

With the construction of the Murciélago LP 670-4 SuperVeloce, Lamborghini proves its expertise in the manufacture of lightweight materials and in working with hi-tech carbon fiber. The structure of the super sports car is a composite construction of extremely stiff carbon components and a tubular steel frame – as in a race car. The transmission tunnel and the floor are made of carbon fiber, attached to the steel frame using rivets and high-strength adhesives. The roof and the exterior door panels are formed in sheet steel, while the remainder of the outer skin is made from carbon composite material.

For the Murciélago LP 670-4 SuperVeloce, engineers in Sant’Agata Bolognese recalculated the framework and selected a new, super high-strength sectional steel. This achieved two objectives – on the one hand, they increased the torsional stiffness of the chassis by 12 percent to provide improved handling precision and, on the other, they were able to reduce weight by 20 kg (44 lbs), making a significant contribution to the reduction of overall vehicle weight. And the systematic approach to lightweight design continues throughout the entire bodyshell. The front fenders, the rear side panels/fenders and the casing for the third brake light are made of a modified carbon-fiber material. Combined with the removal of the drive for the moveable spoiler, this brings a further weight reduction of 13 kg (28.6 lbs).

Added to the 33 kg (72.6 lbs) of weight reduction from the chassis and exterior, are 34 kg (74.8 lbs) from the interior, as well as over 33 kg (72.6 lbs) removed from the engine and drive train.

Power unit and transmission

The longitudinally mounted 6.5 liter V12 delivers the infernal power for an unparalleled driving experience. With 670 hp (493 kW), the engine in the Murciélago LP 670-4 SuperVeloce is 30 hp more powerful than in the Murciélago LP 640. The twelve-cylinder sends its mighty 660 Nm (487 lb-ft) of torque to the crankshaft at 6,500 rpm; maximum power is reached at 8,000 rpm, with an average piston speed of 23.7 meters per second – a figure almost comparable to race engines.

The V12 is eager to deliver its performance – it brings its menacing power with immediacy and precision to guarantee breathtaking performance – after only 3.2 seconds the SuperVeloce has already reached 100 km/h (62 mph).

The engine block and heads of the V12, positioned at the ideal cylinder angle of 60 degrees, are made from aluminum. The four chain-driven camshafts are variably controlled, while the intake manifold operates in three stages – both technologies add even greater thrust to the merciless pushing power. To increase the performance of the SuperVeloce, the intake system was modified, the valve train optimized and, most importantly, valve travel was increased.

The control electronics for the V12 were developed internally by Lamborghini – each cylinder bank has its own high-performance processor. If the engine needs more cooling air, intake funnels emerge from the rear pillars: when not in operation, they lie flush with the bodyshell. Dry sump lubrication enables the V12 to be mounted extremely low down, benefiting the handling dynamics: this also guarantees oil supply under extremely dynamic driving conditions. With 12 liters of lubricating oil in circulation, the oil cooler is located on the left side of the vehicle and cooled by air flowing through the aperture in the sill.

The weight reduction of more than 26 kg (57 lbs) in the engine area was derived primarily from the completely new exhaust system. The muffler has been redesigned and even the mighty tailpipe of the SuperVeloce manufactured from new materials is lighter than on the Murciélago LP 640. But most of all, the new exhaust system makes for an acoustic experience that is surely equal to the driving performance – from the heavy rumble of a stormy night, through the trumpeting of mighty elephants to the roar of a raging lion, the SuperVeloce performs the grand opera for 12 cylinders, 48 valves and 8,000 revs.

The SuperVeloce is equipped as standard with the sequential, automated manual transmission e.gear, which uses electro-hydraulics to shift gear extremely quickly and smoothly. A cockpit display informs the driver of the gear currently engaged. In addition a special “Corsa” mode and a “Low adherence” mode are available.

As a no-premium option, the SuperVeloce is available with a six-speed manual transmission. Its short metal shift stick runs in an open gate of classic Italian elegance. In both variants, the new lightweight clutch makes its own contribution to the weight loss program.

All-wheel drive and chassis

The Murciélago LP 670-4 SuperVeloce delivers its extreme power to the road with great reliability – assured by its permanent all-wheel drive. Before the rear wheels spin, the viscous coupling sends up to 35 percent of driving force via its additional shaft to the front wheels. The front and rear limited-slip differentials are set at 25 and 45 percent. With its four driven wheels and traction, the Murciélago delivers a decisive advantage over rear-wheel drive sports cars when it comes to accelerating out of a corner – and always with maximum stability. The rear axle bears 58 percent of its overall weight – a distribution ratio that is highly beneficial to traction.

Explosive dynamics, tenacious cornering and extreme speeds – the Murciélago LP 670-4 SuperVeloce is a super sports car packed with aggressive power, but by no means a mean-spirited car. Its steering requires very little power support, giving full control of the car to the driver. Those prepared to tackle the beast head on are quickly rewarded with intimate contact and trust – as speed increases, so the Murciélago reveals its strengths, thus exposing a character with no hidden surprises and behavior that can always be anticipated.

The Murciélago is fitted with double wishbone suspension all round. Spring struts – two on each of the rear wheels and one on each of the front – control the loads transferred from the road. The standard-fit lifting system enables the front end of the vehicle to be raised by 45 mm (1.8 inches) to avoid obstacles such as garage entryways. The SuperVeloce is equipped with exclusive “Ares” alloy-forged wheels, bearing the exclusive five twin-spoke design. The front wheels are clad in 245/35 ZR 18 rubber, while the rears sport 335/30 ZR 18. High-grip Pirelli P Zero Corsa tires come as standard.

Four brakes controlled by a hi-tech ABS system are capable of mighty stopping power when required. The Carbon Ceramic (CCB) brakes are fanned by cooling air flowing through enlarged channels in the bodyshell, while openings in the front fenders provide additional ventilation for the SuperVeloce. The ceramic discs are exceptionally lightweight, fade-free and capable of extremely high operational performance.

Interior and equipment

Even stepping into the Murciélago LP 670-4 SuperVeloce is an experience as individual as the vehicle itself. The upward-opening doors – a solution developed by Lamborghini in the early seventies for the Countach – are released via small latches, then swing wide open to reveal a panorama of the exclusive interior of the Murciélago LP 670-4 SuperVeloce. The dominating materials are Alcantara and carbon fiber, which make for an ambience that is as high-quality as it is sporty.

The sports bucket seats come as standard and provide exceptionally firm support around the hip and shoulder areas. The bucket seats are made from lightweight and highly robust carbon fiber and guarantee the driver perfect support, even in the most extreme driving situations. The Murciélago’s standard seats are also available on the SuperVeloce as an option free of charge.

Not only the seats are upholstered in black Alcantara micro-fiber; the cockpit and the roof lining are also finished in this high-quality, lightweight material. The Y-shaped perforations on the seats and roof lining bring additional finesse, with an inlaid backing material in the same color as the exterior paintwork. The Murciélago LP 670-4 SuperVeloce can be delivered with the paint finishes Giallo Orion, Arancio Atlas, Bianco Isis, Grigio Telesto and Nero Aldebaran, as well as Bianco Canopus (white matt) and Nero Nemesis (black matt) as an option.

Naturally, the interior also makes its contribution to weight reduction. The door panels are clad in carbon fiber, as is the wide center tunnel. The application of Alcantara instead of leather is another weight-saver, just like the selection of sports bucket seats and the omission of the radio-navigation system (if requested, this is available as an option). At the end of the day, the music in a Murciélago comes from the engine compartment. Overall, modifications to the interior contribute over 34 kg (75 lbs) to the SuperVeloce weight loss program.

But absolutely no corners have been cut when it comes to one characteristic that is a feature of all Lamborghini super sports cars – the exceptionally high quality of the workmanship. The craftsmen in Sant’Agata Bolognese are all masters of their respective trades; the three-year warranty bears testimony to absolute faith in product quality.

via: topcarblog

Unlike the first teaser these pictures of the Audi TT-RS are for real and they also reveal more of the car. The hottie TT will have a 5-cylinder engine which is turbocharged and promises well over 300hp. That means the 0-100 sprint takes under 5 seconds to complete but the top speed is limited to 250 km/h.

Aluminum has been used extensively to keep the weight low and with the sport suspension, larger brakes and the Quattro AWD system, The handling will be near perfect. Audi T-RS debut  has been confirmed for Geneva Motorshow but its launched is scheduled for the third quarter of 2009 as 2010 model.