Cobra GT500

Subaru vs. deer.

Rally Car Crushes Deer - Watch more free videos

Via The Auto Prophet

Update: Yep, a hoax. I should have tried Google, as suggested. Here it is from the MSP directly.

I got this email forwarded to me, one of those friend-of-a-friend chains that goes through a hundred people and winds up in your inbox. I don’t know if it is reliable, so take it for what it is worth. If anyone can comment on the truthfulness of this chain mail, please comment.

Subject: Heads Up in Michigan.

Heads Up, In February, Michigan will launch a 30-day speeding ticket
frenzy.

The state estimates that 9 million dollars will be generated in
speeding tickets. 1 million will go to pay state troopers overtime.

There will be 50 state troopers on duty 24/7 patrolling the
following highways AND MORE!

I-75 North and South
I-94 From Ann Arbor to Port Huron
Entire length of I-96 & I-696
I-275 North and South
M-10 Lodge Fwy

Now, 5 mph above the limit can justify a ticket, and every state
trooper is supposed to pull a car over and write a ticket every 10
minutes. They have issued 30 brand new unmarked Crown Victoria
cruisers and they are bringing all their part timers on full time.

* Wear your seat belt,
* have nothing hanging from the rear view mirror,
* do the speed limit - use cruise control if you have it,
* no cracks in your windshield,
* and use your turn signals!

Via The Auto Prophet

This news item caught my eye in my daily auto news scan: Ford Apologizes For Ad Campaign.
What could it be? Another dead cat? Too gay? Not gay enough?

The ad in question used the phrase “Drive it like you stole it“, displayed on a bumper sticker stuck to an Escape. You would think the problem was that it encourages aggressive driving (of an SUV no less, shocking!) but apparently what got the Canadians hung up was also its glorification of car theft. From CBC Canada:

“You look at that and you think, ‘what were they thinking?’” said John Douglas, Manitoba Public Insurance Inc. vice president of public relations and corporate affairs. “Auto theft is a high-profile public issue in Winnipeg and in every major city across Canada. We’ve all had issues with vehicle thieves driving recklessly and endangering people.”

Apparently, our manly lumberjack northern neighbors are rather sensitive. The Winnipeg Free Press online poll shows that the majority of online responders are in fact offended:

Poll Results

Did you find Ford’s ‘Drive it like you stole it’ ad offensive?

Yes	56%
No	44%

Total Votes: 1666

I think the Canadians are being a bit too sensitive on this one. But someone at Ford marketing should be smacked with a wild salmon, because the whole premise is stupid. You don’t drive an Escape “like you stole it”, you put on flannel and hiking boots and you go run over some endangered fauna on the way to your lumberjack camp and hunting lodge. The car you might aspire to drive fast is the Mustang GT.

Via The Auto Prophet

World Debut Of All-New Venza At 2008 North American International Auto Show

January 14, 2008 – Detroit, MI - Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., unveiled the all-new 2009 Venza crossover sedan at a press conference here today at the 2008 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS). Venza will raise the crossover vehicle to new levels by combining a unique blend of sedan refinement and sport utility vehicle (SUV) functionality.

2009 Toyota Venza

“The all-new Venza was developed as a vehicle that combines the styling, comfort and fun-to-drive performance elements of a five-passenger sedan with the surprising utility of an SUV,” said Bob Carter, Toyota Division group vice president and general manager. “This winning combination will be ideal for active ‘boomers’ and young couples with small families.”

All aspects of Venza’s engineering and design were targeted specifically for the North American market where it will be sold exclusively. Venza was primarily engineered at Toyota Technical Center in Ann Arbor, Mich., and designed at Toyota’s Calty design studios in Newport Beach, Calif. and Ann Arbor, Mich. Venza will be assembled at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Kentucky (TMMK), in Georgetown, Ky.

The development focus of the Venza design team was to create a new crossover vehicle that shifted away from the more traditional SUV styling themes that tend to dominate the segment. Calty designers leaned more heavily on a sleek sedan concept with a wide stance that featured a sporty exterior and premium comfort interior but would also be equipped with important SUV attributes such as cargo space, towing capability and all-wheel-drive performance.

The exterior design of the four-door Venza begins with an imposing front end featuring a distinctive grille, headlights and fog lamps for an aggressive, yet classy appearance. The front conforms to a sleek and aerodynamic shape with short overhangs, crisp character lines and a roofline and ground clearance that are lower than a typical crossover. From behind, Venza’s refined appearance is complete with an angled rear hatch, rear spoiler and wide wraparound tail lights that interconnect with the hatch door.

On the inside, Calty designers and TTC engineers made comfort, refinement and utility a priority for the five-passenger Venza. A lower rocker design will allow occupants to more easily step in and out of the vehicle than a typical sedan. Venza will also feature a higher ride height and hip points that will help provide significantly better driver visibility than most sedans and easier ingress and egress than most SUVs.

Venza will feature a spacious interior providing ample room for all five passengers and abundant SUV-like cargo space behind the second row of seats. The rear hatch provides a low cargo height that allows for easy loading and unloading of luggage and outdoor gear. Easy-to-use levers, one on each side of the rear cargo area, allow the 60/40 split rear seats to fold flat, providing additional storage space for extra long items such as surf boards, skis, camping gear and gardening equipment. For added passenger comfort, the rear seats recline up to 14 degrees.

A creative interior design complemented with an array of comfort and convenience features provides Venza with a refined look and feel that is commonly reserved for a luxury sedan. The flow of the instrumentation panel (IP) creates a unique 60/60 design that gives both driver and front passenger the look and feeling that 60 percent of the IP is accessible from their seating position.

An extra long center console extends from the IP and slopes down to a center compartment with a unique sliding console cover. Sliding open the compartment lid reveals a large storage well deep enough to hold a large purse. The compartment is also illuminated and equipped with an auxiliary audio jack and 12-volt power point. The upper portion of the center console houses the gear-shift lever for easy and comfortable driver access. Climate control functions are centrally located on the upper center console, providing easy accessibility for both driver and passenger. The center console also contains an iPod/MP3 storage compartment with wire management and illuminated dual cupholders.

All Venza models will be equipped with an array of standard features including auto dual zone air conditioning, AM/FM six-disc CD, tilt/telescopic steering wheel with audio controls, remote keyless entry, electrochromic rearview mirror with compass, a multi-information display, cruise control, optitron gauges, rear wiper, privacy glass, and much more. On V6 models Venza will come standard with dual exhaust tips and will be the first Toyota model to ride on standard 20-inch alloy wheels. Four-cylinder models will come standard with 19-inch alloy wheels.

Chrome accents throughout give Venza a refined look and feel. Models equipped with an optional leather-trimmed interior will feature wood-grain-type trim and seats stitched with dark piping that is tastefully coordinated with Venza’s standard linear grain dashboard and steering wheel. An array of storage space will be available throughout the vehicle to accommodate passenger belongings. A large storage compartment with an additional 12-volt power point located on the passenger side of the front center console will be sizeable enough to contain maps and magazines.

A panoramic roof will be offered as an option and will be a first for the Toyota vehicle lineup. The roof will feature separate glass panels over the front and rear seats. The front glass panel will have a power tilt/slide function.

Venza will also offer an Automatic High Beam headlight system, another Toyota first. When high beam headlights are in use sensors in the Automatic High Beam system will detect oncoming traffic and automatically switch the headlights to low-beam. When the Automatic High Beam sensors no longer detect oncoming traffic the system will switch the headlights back to high-beam mode.

Additional optional equipment will include a navigation system equipped with a JBL audio system, integrated satellite radio capability and Bluetooth® technology; a premium JBL audio system with AM/FM six-disc CD changer, satellite radio capability and Bluetooth®, rear seat entertainment system, a Smart Key System, back-up camera and a power rear door.

The sleek and sporty styling, refined interior and outstanding utility features are complemented with fun-to-drive performance attributes expected by owners with active lifestyles. Aggressive handling typically found in a performance coupe is well-balanced by the on-road comfort of an upscale sedan.

Venza will be available in front- and all-wheel-drive configurations. It will provide drivers and passengers the best of both worlds by delivering the quiet comfortable ride expected from a full-size sedan along with the peace-of-mind that comes with all-wheel-drive.

Power will be generated by an available 3.5-liter V6 that will produce 268 horsepower at 6,200 rpm and 246 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,700 rpm with a towing capability of 3,500 pounds. Standard power will come from an all-new 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine that will deliver capable performance and provide excellent fuel efficiency and low emissions. Both engines will be mated with a six-speed sequential-shift electronically-controlled automatic transmission.

Venza will be equipped with a comprehensive list of standard safety features. It will provide a total of seven airbags, including a driver’s knee airbag, front seat-mounted side airbags, and side curtain airbags for both rows of seats. Venza will also be the first sedan with Toyota’s STAR safety system, featuring anti-lock brakes, traction control, electronic brake-force distribution, brake assist, and vehicle stability control. Venza will also feature active head rests as standard equipment.

“Venza will establish an exciting new crossover niche that will combine the finest attributes of Toyota’s diverse vehicle lineup,” said Carter. “It will cater to buyers who are looking for the value and reliability of a Camry, the comfort and upscale refinement of an Avalon, and the utility and functionality of a Highlander SUV in one very stylish and sporty package.”

“When it goes on sale in late 2008, the Venza crossover sedan will represent Toyota’s latest commitment to driving change in the marketplace.”

2009 VENZA PRELIMINARY SPECIFICATIONS

POWERTRAIN
2.7-liter four-cylinder engine
Horsepower: TBD
Torque: TBD
Six-speed sequential shift automatic transmission

3.5-liter V6
Horsepower: 268 @ 6,200
Torque: 246 lb.-ft. @ 4,700 rpm
Six-speed sequential shift automatic transmission
Drive System: Front- and All-Wheel-Drive

DIMENSIONS (inches)
Overall Length: 189.0
Overall Width: 75.0
Overall Height: 63.4
Wheelbase: 109.3
Ground clearance: 8.1
Wheels: 19-inch alloy wheels (four-cylinder only)
20-inch alloy wheels (standard on V6 and available on four-cylinder)

Tire Size: 20-inch: 245/50R20
19-inch: 245/55R19

Towing Capacity: 3,500 lbs. (V6 model)

Seating Capacity: 5

Via 5nizza

Expected to be First Commercially Available, OEM-produced Plug-in Hybrid

2008-01-14, DETROIT - Saturn announced today at the North American International Auto Show that production may begin as soon as 2010 on a plug-in hybrid electric version of the Saturn Vue Green Line, expected to be the first regular production plug-in hybrid electric vehicle. Depending on a consumer’s drive cycle, the Vue plug-in hybrid will be the most fuel-efficient vehicle offered by a major automaker.

Saturn Vue Green Line Plug-in Hybrid

This Vue Green Line will use a modified version of GM’s two-mode hybrid system and plug-in technology, a lithium-ion battery pack, highly efficient electronics and powerful electric motors to achieve significant increases in fuel economy. When the lithium-ion batteries are fully charged, the Vue plug-in hybrid will potentially double the fuel efficiency of any current SUV. After electric-only propulsion depletes the lithium-ion energy storage system to a specified level, the battery is replenished by utilizing the two-mode hybrid system’s electric motors and regenerative brake systems.

“We announced late in 2006 that a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle was a top priority, and the fact that we’re now announcing production timing to bring the industry’s first plug-in to market, while tackling many technology hurdles along the way, demonstrates our commitment to diversifying from petroleum and reducing emissions,” said Saturn General Manager Jill Lajdziak.

In early testing, the Vue Green Line plug-in hybrid is capable of electric-only propulsion for more than 10 miles at low speeds. At higher speeds or when conditions demand it, such as brisk acceleration, a combination of engine and electric power or engine power-only drives the vehicle.

The vehicle’s lithium-ion batteries can be fully recharged in four to five hours by simply connecting the vehicle to any standard 110V household electrical outlet. The connection port on the vehicle will be integrated into the front fender. By recharging rather than refueling, the Vue Green Line plug-in hybrid reduces petroleum consumption.

A plug-in hybrid-electric vehicle differs from a non-plug-in hybrid-electric vehicle by offering extended electric-only propulsion, additional battery capacity and the ability to be recharged from an external electrical outlet.

The two-mode hybrid system to be introduced on the 2009 Saturn Vue Green Line 2 Mode will be altered for use with plug-in technology. In addition to plug-in capabilities and the modified two-mode hybrid system, the Saturn Vue Green Line hybrid SUV’s powertrain will feature two interior permanent magnet motors within the two-mode transmission and GM’s 3.6L V-6 VVT gasoline engine with direct injection. The lithium-ion energy storage system will be replenished by utilizing the two-mode hybrid system’s electric motors and regenerative braking systems.

The Saturn Vue Green Line plug-in maintains two driving modes - one for city driving, the other for highway driving - and four fixed mechanical gears to maximize efficiency while maintaining performance. In addition, special controls will be utilized to enable higher speeds during electric-only propulsion and maintain electric-only propulsion for longer periods of time.

Via 5nizza

Seamless advanced technology meets stunning, emotional design; Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle Technology taken to new level

Detroit, Jan 14, 2008 - Three passionate designs combine with three advanced propulsion systems. The result: high-tech, innovative vehicles with alternative fuel choices … and exciting design and brand character.

Chrysler LLC’s mission to be more environmentally responsible is significantly changing how we envision vehicles in our future portfolio.

Jeep Renegade Concept

As the entire automotive industry has basically the same technology pool from which to draw, our design challenge remains similar to what it has always been: How do we distinguish Chrysler’s future designs from the rest of the pack? Even in this environment, we must create emotional designs, and must offer vehicles that people will really want to own and drive.

Dodge ZEO Concept

So we have challenged ourselves to unleash our design passion – in combination with these future technologies and linked to the Chrysler, Jeep® and Dodge brands for our 2008 concept vehicles.

Each of the technologies must be transparent to our customers and provide an exceptional driving experience. In addition, each technology must be optimally packaged in the vehicle to ensure uncompromised comfort and function.

Chrysler ecoVoyager Concept

The Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge concept vehicles for 2008 take advantage of the unique packaging and design opportunities realized by these advanced powertrain systems.

The all-new Chrysler ecoVoyager concept, Jeep Renegade concept and Dodge ZEO concept take advantage of the best of new technologies and couple them with the room, comfort, speed and style customers will not sacrifice – allowing potential customers to still feel good about their personal impact on the environment even when simply having fun.

In designing each of the three concepts for the 2008 North American International Auto Show, Chrysler designers studied various emerging and growing customer groups to overlay their needs and expectations with Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge brand values to develop the best overall fit. The result is an all-new passionate design concept for each of our three brands.

Via 5nizza

More Powerful, Redesigned 2009 Nissan Murano Priced $1,500 Less Than 2007 Models

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (Jan. 15, 2007) - Nissan North America, Inc. today announced pricing on the all-new, totally redesigned 2009 Nissan Murano crossover with a starting Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) $1,500 lower on all models versus the previous generation. The 2009 Nissan Murano goes on sale this week at Nissan dealers nationwide.

2009 Nissan Murano

The original Nissan Murano set new standards for style and sportiness when it was first introduced, becoming, in essence, a “class of one.” The all-new, second generation 2009 Nissan Murano elevates that unique position with new exterior and interior designs, enhanced technology and a premium driving feel resulting from a new, advanced platform and continued refinement of Murano’s standard 265-horsepower V6 engine (an increase of 25 horsepower over the previous generation) and advanced, second-generation Xtronic CVT™.

“When Murano was introduced in 2003, there were only eight vehicles in the middle crossover segment. Since then, the segment has grown to become the fifth largest in the industry with more than 20 models competing in this segment,” said Al Castignetti, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division, Nissan North America, Inc. “We’re pricing the all-new Murano to take advantage of the growing interest in the segment, adding standout value to its standout design, features, quality and safety.”

The 2009 Murano is offered in five models Murano S FWD, Murano S AWD, Murano SL FWD, Murano SL AWD and a new Murano LE AWD model (the previous generation Murano included a Murano SE AWD model).

The 2009 Murano S FWD starts at an MSRP of $26,330 and comes fully equipped with intelligent Xtronic CVT™, dual zone air conditioning, power front windows with one-touch auto up/down with auto reverse feature, push button ignition, 60/40 split fold-flat rear seat, auxiliary audio input jack, 18-inch wheels and much more. The Murano S AWD has a starting MSRP of $27,930 and includes the extensive standard features on the FWD, along with Nissan’s intuitive All-Wheel Drive system.

The Murano SL FWD, starting at $27,880 offers all the features on Murano S, plus rear privacy glass, front fog lights, steering wheel audio switches, leather wrapped steering wheel, 8-way power driver seat and 60/40 split fold-flat rear seatback with power return. The Murano SL AWD, starting at $29,480 adds intuitive AWD.

The new Murano LE AWD, starting at $35,910, offers new luxury and technology features such as 20-inch alloy wheels, bi-functional xenon headlights, Bose® audio system with 11 speakers, XM® Satellite Radio, Interface System for iPod®, 7-inch color display, Intelligent Key, Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System, driver position memory (seat, mirrors, and steering wheel), leather-appointed seats, heated front and rear seats, power tilt and telescoping steering wheel, interior wood trim, power liftgate, RearView Monitor and many others.

Complete 2009 Nissan Murano pricing is available on the attached sheets.

About the 2009 Murano
The most striking visual element of the 2009 Murano is its new body, which imparts a “modern art” feel while still maintaining its distinctive “Murano-ness.” The front end features a bold grille and wide front headlights, while Murano’s new hood sweeps into the bodyline, with powerful wheel arches and available 20-inch wheels providing an aggressive stance. Murano’s redesigned rear end features a unique rear glass shape for maximum visibility, rear air deflector, large rear LED taillights and dual exhaust outlets with chrome finishers.

A new Murano option for 2009 is an available dual panel power sliding glass moonroof and 2nd row skylight. Three new exterior colors are also offered: Deep Sapphire, Tinted Bronze and Saharan Stone.

Inside, the 2009 Murano lives up to its “mobile suite” design theme with new levels of warmth and luxury. New front seats and a new steering wheel design provide increased passenger comfort, and warmth is provided by a new “Welcome Lighting” ambient lighting system, a new instrument panel design, available wood and aluminum accents and a 60/40 fold-flat rear seat with available power return. Other available features include a new foldaway cargo organizer, heated front and rear seats, power liftgate, rain-sensing front wipers and RearView Monitor.

All 2009 Muranos feature a VQ-series 3.5-liter DOHC V6 rated at 265 horsepower and 248 lb-ft of torque and an advanced Xtronic CVT™ with Adaptive Shift Control (ASC) that provides a sporty and smooth driving experience. 2009 Muranos are available in front-wheel drive or with an advanced all-wheel drive system, and all Muranos come standard with Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) with a Traction Control System (TCS) for all-weather confidence.

The 2009 Murano is built on a new “D” platform, first introduced on the 2007 Altima, which provides a solid foundation and new, lighter suspension components with increased stiffness. New dual flow path shock absorbers provide sure footing on all surfaces, while a new twin-orifice speed-sensitive power steering system delivers the proper levels of assistance in around-town and high-speed driving.

Push button start is standard, along with iPod® connectivity (LE only). Available technology features include Intelligent Key, Bose® premium 11-speaker audio system, an advanced touch screen navigation system with 9.3GB Music Box hard drive, a new power-operated 9-inch roof-mounted screen (up from the previous generation’s 6.4-inch screen) for Murano’s DVD Mobile Entertainment System and Voice Recognition for audio, Bluetooth® and navigation system.

In North America, Nissan operations include automotive styling, engineering, consumer and corporate financing, sales and marketing, distribution and manufacturing.

Via 5nizza

Saturn Flextreme with Integrated Segway PTs Unveiled at 2008 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS)

DETROIT, Jan. 14, 2008 — Today at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) Segway Inc. and General Motors (GM) are showcasing a comprehensive solution for eco-friendly mobility - the Saturn Flextreme concept car with integrated Segway(R) Personal Transporters (PTs).

Saturn Flextreme with Integrated Segway PTs: DETROIT - Two Segway(R) Personal Transporters are shown with General Motors’ Saturn Flextreme concept. The concept is on display at the 2008 North American International Show (NAIAS). (PRNewsFoto/Segway Inc./Axel Weirdemann)

The Saturn Flextreme is built on GM’s global E-Flex electric drive architecture that was first debuted by the Opel brand at the 2007 Frankfurt Auto Show last October. The Flextreme design is the first functional automotive concept that integrates an onboard storage and charging system for two Segway PTs.

“Segway is committed to developing safe, clean, innovative products that are redefining transportation for consumers and businesses,” said Jim Norrod, Segway’s chief executive officer. “The Flextreme concept with integrated Segway PTs is a great example of the evolution of transportation.”

The two Segway PTs housed in the concept’s FlexLoad(R) cargo space operate on the same balancing technology used in the well-known personal transporters available today. Using Segway Smart Motion(TM) — a unique combination of sensors, propulsion and intelligence — the Segway PT balances in place and moves in response to the way the rider moves his or her body forward, backward, left or right.

Special adjustments have been made to the Segway PT prototypes for easy loading and unloading into the Flex-Load cargo space. The tire diameter and track width were optimized to fit inside the vehicle and the prototypes have a unique exterior design to match the look and feel of the Flextreme, making them a cohesive part of this integrated transportation solution. Most notably, these Segway PT units have retractable handlebars that allow for more compact storage. Built into the Flex-Load cargo area are ramps used to load and unload the Segway PTs. The Segway PT units attach to a docking station inside the cargo space where they recharge while the Flextreme batteries charge.

“Saturn has a legacy of environmental responsibility, so products like this Flextreme concept with its integrated Segway PTs showcase our continued pursuit of consumer-focused, green technologies,” said Jill Lajdziak, Saturn’s General Manager.

“The Segway and GM teams worked closely to integrate the Segway PT into the Flextreme’s functionality and innovative design,” said Doug Field, Segway’s chief technology officer. “It was a collaboration that resulted in one package with both short and long-distance transportation solutions.”

Like the Flextreme, the Segway PT is electrically powered and does not produce emissions during operation. Powered by two lithium-ion batteries, the Segway PT typically takes eight to ten hours to charge at a 110/220 volt outlet and consumes about one kilowatt hour of energy while recharging(1).

Considering a rider can travel up to 24 miles on one battery charge the Segway PT consumes .0.052 kilowatt hours per mile on average. The production of 52 watt-hours of electricity creates 0.081 lbs. of carbon dioxide - that is 70 to 80 percent less than the emissions created by other individual transportation devices such as gas-powered scooters or motorcycles, respectively(2). Moreover, the Segway PT is four to five times more energy efficient than a motorcycle or scooter.

The Saturn Flextreme concept with Segway PT prototypes will be on display at the NAIAS Jan. 14 - 27, 2008 at the Cobo Hall Convention Center in Detroit.

Via 5nizza

Audi’s R8-based concept car delivers 500PS and 1,000 Nm thanks to V12 TDI power

Jan 14, 2008 — After ripping up the Le Mans racing rulebook with the diesel-powered R10 TDI, Audi is exploring the possibility of breaking yet another mould with a road-going R8-based TDI super-car. The R8 V12 TDI Concept makes its debut at this month’s North American International Auto Show in Detroit, replacing the production sports car’s mid-mounted petrol FSI V8 with a 12-cylinder TDI endowed with an incredible 1,000Nm of torque.

2008 Audi R8

Highlights:
• Design study based on acclaimed R8 road car adopts 6.0-litre, 12-cylinder TDI engine first seen in Q7 V12 TDI
• Debuted on Press Day at the North American International Auto Show on January 13
• 6.0-litre bi-turbo TDI engine develops 500PS and 1,000Nm of torque from 1,750rpm to 3,000rpm. 0-62mph in 4.2 seconds, top speed in excess of 186mph
• Already complies with proposed EU6 emission limits expected to apply from 2014, thanks to highly efficient common rail system with piezo injectors, twin particulate filters and new ultra low emission system
• Includes Audi magnetic ride adaptive damping and specially developed version of Audi drive select system with ‘Sport’ and ‘Race’ settings
• Satellite navigation system incorporates race circuit information and centrifugal force / boost pressure data when in ‘Race’ mode

First seen in the forthcoming Q7 V12 TDI SUV, the 6.0 litre twin-turbo V12 engine with 500PS is similar in basic concept to the R10 TDI’s 5.5 litre race engine. It delivers its colossal 1,000Nm output from just 1,750rpm, guaranteeing the effortless delivery of a 4.2 second, 0-62mph acceleration time and a top speed in excess of 186mph.

Despite these astonishing statistics, this remarkable engine shows restraint when it comes to environmental impact. Its fundamental efficiency, achieved through an advanced common rail fuel injection system enhanced by piezo injectors, is complemented by twin particulate filters and a new, innovative ultra-low emission system that ensures compliance with the EU6 emission limits expected to apply from 2014.

The heart of the system is a special catalytic converter downstream of the oxidising catalyst and particulate filter. The second component is an additional tank containing an aqueous urea solution. Small quantities of the solution, known as “AdBlue,” are injected into the exhaust system. The hot exhaust gases break the solution down to form ammonia that splits the nitric oxides into inert nitrogen and water. The system remains effective for the entire service life of the vehicle.

The R8’s classic mid-engine configuration, combined with the advanced Audi Space Frame® (ASF) lightweight aluminium panelling attached to an aluminium frame, provides the best operating conditions for the futuristic chassis, which also contains a high proportion of aluminium components.

Audi magnetic ride.
The V12 TDI Concept is equipped with the advanced Audi magnetic ride adaptive damping system, which uses magnetorheological fluid containing minute magnetic particles that can be affected by an electromagnetic field. By applying a voltage to the system’s electromagnets, the viscosity of the fluid is changed by these magnetic particles. This increas resistance to damper movement to correct pitch and roll when necessary, and reduce resistance at times when ride comfort is of greater importance. The system constantly monitors road conditions and driving style and reacts accordingly.

A specially tailored version of Audi drive select, the adaptive dynamics system introduced recently in the new A4 Saloon, also helps to personalise the driving experience. Offering ‘Dynamic’, ‘Sport’ and ‘Race’ settings, it enables further fine-tuning of the magnetic ride dampers and the parameters of the engine and transmission. With ‘Race’ setting selected on a circuit, the interior instrument lighting changes from white to red and the onboard satellite navigation system displays navigation information relating to the specific circuit being driven, along with a lap timer. Supplementary information, including centrifugal force and boost pressure, can also be accessed in this mode.

quattro® four-wheel-drive reassurance.
Whether on road or circuit, the R8 is effectively moderated by high-performance carbon fibre-reinforced ceramic brakes, and by the legendary quattro® permanent four-wheel-drive system. This apportions power to front and rear axles in constantly varying degrees dictated by road conditions and prevents the less desirable handling traits often exhibited by powerful mid-engine, rear-drive sports cars.

Additional downforce is provided by a specially developed, larger version of the production car’s automatically extending rear spoiler, combined with a fully clad diffuser under-body and special measures such as diffuser apertures in the rear bumper. Efficient air channelling accentuates the R8’s widely acclaimed handling capabilities and, to cool the potent V12 engine, air is captured effectively by racing-derived NACA ducts in the new, passenger-side glass roof.

The engine itself is also displayed in all its glory beneath a clear glass cover, through which special air deflectors can be seen. At only 684 mm, the surprisingly compact 12-cylinder is only 166 mm longer than the V8 TDI. With the help of the 2.65 metre wheelbase, the feeling of space which sets the R8 apart from its rivals is hardly compromised.

All LED lighting technology.
Inside, the V12 TDI Concept is distinguishable by its additional aluminium and carbon fibre elements, and by its moulded, racing-style sports seats. On the outside, it is marked out by enlarged inlet and outlet ducts at the front, side and rear, LED lights, the modified rear spoiler and exclusive alloy wheels.

Via 5nizza

The Mercedes-Benz C-Class has emerged the winner of Germany’s largest vote for the most popular car by a wide margin. Accordingly the motoring organisation ADAC has presented its sought-after “Yellow Angel 2008″ award to this Stuttgart-made public favourite.

2008 Mercedes-Benz C-Class 4MATIC Sedan

The “Yellow Angel” awards, which the ADAC presents annually for outstanding performance, are named after the nickname given to the ADAC’s friendly breakdown service personnel and are among Europe’s most sought-after motoring awards. Consumers find them a valuable decision-making guide, as criteria such as price/performance ratio, practicality, economy, safety and environmental compatibility also play a part in the selection process.

The vote was between 36 vehicles which newly entered the market in 2007. Around 340,000 people cast their votes and awarded first place to the Mercedes-Benz C-Class by a wide margin over the runner-up. Europe’s largest motoring association – it has around 16 million members – rewarded this clear-cut result with the “Yellow Angel 2008″ award for Germany’s favourite car.

The C-Class has set new standards in its segment since its market launch at the end of March 2007. In addition to an appealing design and hallmark Mercedes refinement, it also offers the latest technical advances. These include, for example, the AGILITY CONTROL package with situation-responsive shock absorber control, the Intelligent Light System with five different lighting functions and the anticipatory occupant protection system PRE-SAFE®.

Germany’s favourite car is also very much a bestseller. With 261,500 examples sold in 2007, unit sales of the saloon increased by 57 percent.

The C-Class has already collected several awards for its exceptional status in the mid-range segment. The readers of AUTO BILD voted it the most attractive saloon, the motoring magazine “auto, motor und sport” declared it the most appealing medium-sized car and 350,000 participants in Europe’s largest internet survey voted it Europe’s favourite car with the 2007 “Carolina” Internet Auto Award.

Via 5nizza