GMC Denali XT Concept

GMC Denali XT Concept

It offers a 50-percent increase in combined fuel economy over comparable small pickup trucks when running on gasoline, and it incorporates a new, muscular form in a performance-styled, hybrid sport-utility truck (SUT).

The engine is matched with GM's unique two-mode hybrid propulsion system, giving the powerful SUT exceptional fuel economy and uncompromising capability - including all-electric drive at low speeds. It is a powertrain combination that makes the Denali XT perfectly suited to a variety of active lifestyle activities, such as hauling skis and snowboards to the mountain or towing a sport jet boat to the lake.

The Denali XT is lighter than conventional body-on-frame trucks, with great ride-and-handling characteristics. This design enhances fuel economy while giving the vehicle a sporty driving experience. True to its GMC Professional Grade heritage, the Denali XT is filled with technologies and features that maximize its flexibility, including a cargo space-enhancing Midgate and height-adjustable suspension.

Dramatic design statement
A muscular form and wide, firmly planted stance give the Denali XT a confidently capable road presence. Minimal overhangs, large wheels, sleek headlamps and a low roof profile deliver an aggressive, performance-oriented appearance.

The Inside,
The Denali XT blends mechanical functionality with leather-trimmed comfort.
Billet-metal surrounds, controls and instruments convey the cold precision of an aircraft cockpit. This is balanced by the warmth of bespoke saddle-leather trimmed seats and other contact surfaces.

The Denali XT seats four. The high-cowl vehicle architecture enables higher seating positions, allowing the couple distance between front and rear occupants to be reduced without compromising knee room. This packaging efficiency creates generous interior and cargo bed dimensions within a more compact package.


Truck capability
With stiffness that is greater than most conventional, body-on-frame trucks, the Denali XT's unibody structure supports a very capable truck platform. It also serves as the mounting point for a four-wheel independent suspension that gives the vehicle its performance feel on the road. The multilink front suspension features a forward-mounted steering rack and dual lower links with ball joints at the outer ends, providing sharp responses to driver input. At the rear, a four-link suspension design uses coil-over shocks and a decoupled stabilizer bar to enhance cornering control, reduce body roll and optimize longitudinal compliance. In short, it's a truck that hauls more than cargo on twisting roads.

The rear cargo area is wide, deep and flat, with no suspension or wheelhouse protrusions; the cargo floor measures 55 inches long (1,397 mm) by 47.5 inches wide (1,206 mm). It all adds up to the space to haul a wide variety of lifestyle accessories.

The easy-to-operate Midgate can be lowered to extend the cargo-carrying capacity inside the vehicle. The rear seats fold flat to provide a longer floor for carrying items such as skis, surfboards or wood from the home improvement store. A fixed rear window allowed engineers to retain the vehicle's structure, reducing mass and complexity.

The Denali XT has an estimated payload capacity of 1,100 pounds (499 kg) and a towing capacity of an estimated 3,500 pounds (1,587 kg). This capability is delivered through unique vehicle and powertrain integration, where the multiple modes of GM's two-mode hybrid system provide towing capability.

New 4.9L SIDI V-8 and two-mode hybrid system
The GM's rear-wheel-drive two-mode hybrid transmission is paired with a smaller-displacement version of the small-block engine. The new V-8 4.9L E85-capable engine powers the Denali XT with an estimated 326 horsepower (243 kW).
It uses direct-injection technology to produce the power of a larger engine, but consumes less fuel and produces lower emissions.

The functionality of GM's Active Fuel Management system has been expanded through the use of hybrid technologies, enhancing the cylinder-deactivating feature to further improve fuel efficiency.

The Denali XT's two-mode hybrid system is partnered with the 4.9L engine and uses an electrically variable transmission to enhance fuel efficiency in city and highway driving. In city driving, all-electric propulsion is used at low speeds; on the highway, fixed-gear operation enables efficient performance even when towing a trailer.


The specific characteristics of the Denali XT allowed the synergistic evolution of GM's small-block V-8 and two-mode hybrid beyond the recently introduced in GM two-mode hybrid products, such as the GMC Yukon Hybrid and Sierra Hybrid. During this optimization process, additional powertrain technologies have been integrated, including Active Thermal Management, which transfers thermal energy from one driveline component to another to improve efficiency; and a high-efficiency axle configuration, which fundamentally reduces the losses normally associated with conventional axle configurations.

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Fisker Karma S Concept

Fisker Karma S Concept

The Karma S is an extension of the Fisker Automotive product range of eco-conscious automobiles and sets the tone for our future.

The 4-seat, plug-in hybrid hardtop convertible furthers the company's belief that driving style and performance need not be compromised for environmental friendliness.

The open-air Fisker Karma S concept shares its aluminum spaceframe architecture and clean Q-DRIVE® powertrain with the Fisker Karma sedan.


Designed and engineered by Quantum Technologies exclusively for Fisker Automotive, Q-DRIVE® provides 50 emission-free miles on a single charge to its lithium-ion battery pack, and up to 403hp from two electric motors.
The power retractable hard top, a first for Fisker, glides neatly into the trunk and a unique design language sets the Fisker Karma S concept apart.

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Fiat 500 Barbie Concept

Fiat 500 Barbie Concept

The Fiat 500 makes headlines once more, as befits an authentic Made in Italy icon.

It's a fashionista car but quite tongue-in-cheek and with lots of charm: just like Barbie herself.
The gleaming paintwork resembles varnish and definitely makes for a shock effect, achieved with deep lacquered colour using ultra fine aluminium plunged in deep, up-to-the-minute pink. The seating is upholstered in strikingly soft fabrics: silver laminated Alcantara is not only trendy but plush to the touch and its glimmer bounces as far as the roof panel.
There are mats enhanced with natural silk yarn and sleek viscose, not to mention lip glosses in brilliant colours stored in the glove compartment, plus a LED-decked vanity mirror to ensure perfect application.
The car has more features than a crown has jewels! Crystals sparkle on interior bezels, hubcaps, outer window mouldings and antenna and even outline the doll's famed silhouette on the pillars. Lastly, this Fiat 500 the Barbie show car also has its own glossy cover, featuring the distinctive Sixties version of the Fiat 500 and a Barbie autograph.

Roberto Giolito, creator of the Fiat 500, had this to say about the Mattel-Fiat partnership scheme: "All-American Ms Barbie already has a number of 'transport solutions' available, like thundering GTs and motor homes with endless accessories.
So if she's spotted a 500 and wants one as a gift for this landmark birthday, it's a signal typical of modern times that there's a renewed need for dreaming the simple things in life, which give so much, allow us to lighten up, thrill who's born beautiful or just feels beautiful, but doesn't have to prove anything.

The Barbie already has everything. Sleek Barbie is a looker, smart enough to listen to everyone, a universal ambassador opting for a car that never divides but frees everyone from having to declare their social status.

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Ferrari California

Ferrari California

The Ferrari California is an exceptionally innovative car whose philosophy takes its inspiration from the spirit and emotions of one of the great Ferraris of the past, the 1957 250 California, a superbly elegant open top car designed for the track, which has, over the years, come to symbolise not only superior sportiness and performance but also exclusivity, craftsmanship and faultless sophistication.

This new car joins Ferrari's 8-cylinder range which is made up mostly of very high performance models.

With Ferrari tradition, this model positively brims with innovative features. In addition to its retractable hard top and the aforementioned original 2+ concept, the new Prancing Horse car also offers: a new direct injection V8 engine, a 7-speed gearbox with steering wheel-mounted F1-style paddles coupled with a new dual clutch, a new suspension system (double wishbones at the front and multilink at the rear), the new evolved F1-Trac traction control system and Brembo brakes with CCM (carbon ceramic material) discs as standard (this latter feature is shared by the other models in the current range).

Styling
The California's sleek aerodynamic styling is, like the rest of the current Ferrari models, the result of our longstanding collaboration with Pininfarina and offers a host of signature Ferrari styling cues. Viewed from the side, the aerodynamic sweep of the bonnet beautifully contrasts with the compact tail volume and the pulled-back cabin. Seen head-on, the car clearly takes it much of its inspiration from the prestigious Prancing Horse car from which it takes its name: the grille and slender air intake at the centre of the bonnet most notably harking back to the 250 GT California. At the rear, the sides and the muscular tail section are both familiar too.
As at the front, the single round LED taillights are inset directly along the edge of the boot. The California's vertically stacked twin tailpipes are an original flourish as is the boot which sweeps right down to the bumpers to improve functionality. Of course, the interior also reflects the same level of design sophistication, exuding a sense of refined luxury, comfort and bespoke quality. Situated between the front seats, the new aluminium-trimmed centre console is another distinctive touch that goes beyond the merely aesthetic, beautifully combining functionality and design.
Aerodynamics
The Ferrari California's aerodynamics were, of course, developed in tandem with its styling. This allowed Ferrari to keep the Cx (drag coefficient) right down with respect to the downforce required for optimal vehicle dynamics. In the coupé configuration, the Ferrari California has a Cx value of 0.32. A desire to achieve perfect balance between vertical load and drag influenced the shape of the rear diffuser and the spoiler incorporated into the front bumper. Drag has been cut to 10% lower than on the other Ferrari models which not only makes the Ferrari California a more aerodynamically efficient car but also reduces fuel consumption. Last but not least, the air intake on the bonnet ensures highly efficient cooling of the engine compartment.

The new 8-cylinder engine
This is the first V8 in the history of Ferrari road-cars to be mid-front mounted. Built entirely from aluminium, it retains the typical Ferrari architecture with a 90° angle between the two cylinder banks and a 180° angle between the cranks.
The engine has a total displacement of 4,300 cc and a maximum power output of 460 hp/338 kW at 7,750 rpm. With a specific power of 107 hp/litre, its maximum torque is 485 Nm (49 kgm) at 5,000 rpm, 75% of which is available at just 2,250 rpm. The Ferrari California takes less than 4 seconds to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h and delivers a blistering 310 km/h top speed.

The Gearbox and transmission
The Ferrari California sports a new dual clutch gearbox (7-speed + reverse) with the now traditional steering wheel-mounted F1-style paddles. This is an innovative system that guarantees a superb combination of performance and ride comfort. With the dual clutch, one clutch is used for even-numbered gears and the other for odd-numbered ones, and allows the pre-selection of the next gear required.The gears are changed by overlapping the opening and closing stage of both clutches, resulting in gearshifting times that are close to zero and with no "torque interrupt".

The Chassis and suspensions
The Ferrari California's chassis and bodyshell are both made entirely from aluminium. Thanks to the use of different aluminium technologies (extrusions and shell casts), the car's exceptional versatility, onboard comfort and driveability has not added to chassis weight or to the dimensions of the structural sections - something that simply would not be the case had traditional steel architecture and technologies been used. Furthermore, static rigidity (torsional and flexional) has been improved with respect to average figures for a Spider to ensure exceptional handling in any kind of road conditions and to guarantee GT-standard comfort both with the top up and down.

Retractable Hard Top
It is made from aluminium panels and has a cast aluminium weight-bearing structure which has reduced its overall weight and the moving masses involved. The entire opening/closing cycle is completed in just 14 seconds and thanks to the original stowage system, the California's boot space remains extremely generous regardless of whether it is up or down.

The GT Manettino and F1-Trac
The manettino has now become one of the classic features of our entire range as has its position on the steering wheel which is clearly derived from our Formula 1 experience. The manettino integrates the gearbox, stability and traction control systems (CST and F1-Trac) and the SCM suspension system.

The settings are as follows:
* COMFORT: maximum safety in all conditions, particularly ideal for low grip situations (wet or slippery road surface). Best everyday driving setting.
* SPORT: maximum performance and stability in perfect grip situations. Recommended for sporty, high performance driving.
* CST-OFF: this setting gives the driver complete freedom and control of the car. There is no electronic intervention whatsoever apart from ABS.

The Ferrari California also sports the F1-Trac traction control system which can very accurately read grip, assuring the very best can be made of the car's potential at any time.

The F1-Trac system guarantees:
* Maximum grip coming out of corners
* Stability in all driving conditions
* Superb driveability and handling in extreme situations
* Consistent performance
* Exceptional ride comfort.

Safety equipment
The Ferrari California boasts an ejectable roll-bar to ensure that its occupants are protected should the car overturn. The system is installed behind the backrests of the rear seats and is hidden by the trim of the same. Ejection time is under 190ms. The onboard safety equipment is completed by front retractable airbags (driver and passenger sides), side retractable air bags in door panels, bi-xenon headlights and LED rear lights. New generation adaptive headlights, known as AFS (Advanced Frontlighting System), are also available on request, and offer improved visibility on the road. The headlamp beam angles are automatically adjusted in line with steering, angle, speed and lateral acceleration, offering a wider area of illumination when cornering.

Interior and standard equipment
Particular attention has been lavished on the design and in-car comfort standard of the California's cabin. The new Ferrari is available in a choice of two configurations:
1. Two-seater plus rear bench equipped to take two roller suitcases or two golf bags.
2. 2+ configuration that sees the rear bench sporting two seats, Isofix attachment points, and two seat belts.

In both version, the rear backrest folds down to allow the stowage of longer items such as golf bags or skis. The boot capacity is also impressively generous: 340 litres with the top up and 240 with the top down.
A new electrically adjustable, magnesium-framed seat was also designed for the Ferrari California. Another new feature is the instrument panel with analogue instruments (tachometer and rev counter) and four-screen TFT Multidisplay. The Ferrari California also boasts a new infotainment system with 6.5'' touchscreen, Sat Nav, USB connection, Bluetooth, hard disc, voice commands and IPOD connector.
Samples of the various materials and virtual configuration tools will also be available to clients at every Ferrari showroom to help them make their choices too. They may also request outof- range colours and content to really ensure their Ferrari California is absolutely unique.

FERRARI CALIFORNIA TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
* DIMENSIONS AND WEIGHTS
o Length: 4563 mm
o Width: 1902 mm
o Height: 1308 mm
o Wheelbase: 2670 mm
o Front track: 1630 mm
o Rear track: 1605 mm
o Dry weight: 1630 kg
o Kerb weight: 1735 kg
o Weight distribution: 47% Front - 53% Rear
o Fuel tank capacity: 78 l
o Boot capacity: 340 l, 240 l (with roof retracted)
* TYRES
o Front: 245/40 ZR19"
o Rear: 285/40 ZR19"
o Front (optional): 245/35 ZR20"
o Rear (optional): 285/35 ZR20""
* CARBON-CERAMIC BRAKES
o Front: 390 x 34 mm
o Rear: 360 x 32 mm
* ELECTRONIC CONTROL SYSTEMS
o CST with F1-TRAC Stability and Traction Control System
o TPTMS Tyre Pressure and Temperature Monitoring System
* ENGINE
o 90° V8 Direct Injection
o Bore and stroke: 94 x 77.37 cc
o Overall displacement: 4297 cc
o Compression ratio: 12.2:1
o Maximum power output: 338 kW (460 CV) @ 7750 rpm
o Maximum torque: 485 Nm (49 kgm) @ 5000 rpm
* PERFORMANCE
o Maximum speed: 310 km/h
o 0-100 km/h: under 4.0 sec
o 0-400 m: 12.2 sec
o 0-1.000 m: 22.1 sec
* GEARBOX
o F1, dual-clutch, 7-speed plus reverse
o Manual 6-speed + REV
* SUSPENSION
o Front: Double wishbone
o Rear: Multilink
* FUEL CONSUMPTION
o ECE Combined: 13.1 l/100 km
* CO2 EMISSIONS
o ECE Combined: 305.6 g/km

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Hamann Ferrari F430 Black Miracle

Hamann Ferrari F430 Black Miracle

The Black Miracle! HAMANN Ferrari F430 in outstanding Design

The Ferrari F430 already is a brilliant, eye-catching vehicle. The "look" as well as engineering technology presents many similarities to motor sports racing. In the latter instance, most vehicles here feature a catchy paint finish in "warrior look".

An individual entrance thanks to Black Miracle design
The HAMANN's "Black Miracle" designed black car body via a foil suggests the appearance of a primary base coat versus a ready-finished lacquered vehicle. It leaves an impression as if the entire car body is covered in velvet. Here as well, comes an idea directly from motor sports racing scene where motor covers are often finished in black matt to aide drivers with glare reduction. The "Black Miracle" design by HAMANN acts similar to a black hole absorbing all light. For the "light at the end of the tunnel" HAMANN provides additional parts following customer preferences in brilliant red, orange or yellow finish. The contrast between black matt and each "luminizing" addition is unquestionably mesmerizing especially for countless admirers at Ferrari meetings. Such an individualized F430 entrance has never been seen before!

The noted HAMANN aerodynamic kit for the Ferrari F430 in dazzling colours grasps many elements directly out of motor sports. Front impressions of the F430 "Black Miracle" through HAMANN's front spoiler provide a distinct racing sports face and minimize front axle buoyancy. The wide rocker panel wings give a lowering impression. Further reminiscence of sports racing awakens at the rear end through the HAMANN diffuser and a powerful rear wing which provides more downthrust on the rear axle. HAMANN air dams for the downforce generating Venturi Tunnel boosts the effect.

Additionally included in the "Black Miracle" design are finished aerodynamic parts in red, orange or yellow as well as coloured side mirrors and brake callipers, tinted rear lights, a coloured engine cover framing, dark tinted windows (including front window), bi-coloured leather furnishings (any choice of colour combinations), HAMANN logos within the head rests as well as the wheels finished in the colour of the aerodynamic components and with completely covered black matt rim flange.

The finest detail through wing doors
The absolute show stopper effect with the eye-catching "Black Miracle" colour in combination to the car body is achieved with the addition of HAMANN constructed wing doors. This process is completed without compromise as HAMANN offers a completely full car body integration through guaranteed technology minus that look of actually being built-in. In other words, this vehicle looks as if it just rolled directly off the assembly line.

Performance jump
Through new motronic programming including a new rear silencer plus a sporty high-performance header and sport steel catalyst, the F430 in HAMANN "Black Miracle" style has a performance increase of 36kW /50 HP which is naturally a plus for vehicle performance.
Even more driving pleasure is promised with a specially designed set of suspension springs. Through the HAMANN springs, not only does the F430 lurk lower to the ground, it also moves noticeably with more agility.


The F430 "Black Miracle" comes equipped from HAMANN with a 3-pieced, forged light weight wheel "Edition Race" in 20-inch. Available for the front axle in size 8,5 x 20 (tires 235/30-20) and for the rear axle in size 12,75 x 20 (tires 325/25-20).

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EDAG LUV Concept

EDAG LUV Concept

Maritime flair for the road: The Concept Car "EDAG LUV"

The design concept of the "LUV" is based on an luxury-class SUV and incorporates a maritime look from bow to stern: oiled teakwood on the hood, as the flooring on the interior, and on the elegant cargo area conveys a maritime flair. But the "EDAG LUV" is a real eye-catcher in other respects as well: the cargo area, behind the two rows of seats with plenty of room for 5 passengers, has been outfitted with teakwood and distinctly resembles a quarterdeck - in keeping with the maritime look of the concept car.

The Module Concept of the "EDAG LUV" - An Economical Approach to Vehicle Derivatives

But the maritime design of the "EDAG LUV" is just the covering for a modular concept which makes it possible to turn vehicles into derivatives or niche vehicles at reasonable expenditures of time and money. In coming up with their shell concept, the EDAG team of engineers, headed by project manager Andreas Funk, set themselves the goal of using the greatest possible number of carry-over parts.
The wheelhouses were also used without any modifications, as were the parts for the rear-end finish, which includes integration of the standard power-lift system from the sedan.

The "EDAG LUV" - A New Vehicle Segment

"LUV", the name of the concept car, is not only a term used by sailors (it is German for "luff", the windward side of a vessel), but also defines a new vehicle segment - the luxury utility vehicle. "In taking the maritime world as a leitmotif for the design of the 'EDAG LUV', we deliberately selected a niche theme. We wanted to demonstrate in exemplary fashion that it is possible to create a distinctive vehicle class and not only to give a vehicle a new look. And to do that with as little technical effort as possible," is how Johannes Barckmann explains the intentions behind the design concept. So the cargo area of the "EDAG LUV" is elegantly tied in with the passenger cell by the harmonious lines of the body design. The utility vehicle character so often evident in pick-up models is no longer discernible in the "EDAG LUV". On the contrary, the "EDAG LUV" radiates elegance and autonomy and cannot be classified by any of the vehicle segments existing today.

Innovation in the Interior - The PC Takes Its Place in the Vehicle
The "EDAG LUV" has innovative solutions on the inside as well. The EDAG development team has integrated two UMPCs (UltraMobile PCs) into the headrests, bringing the PC world into the vehicle. The user can use a specially developed mechanism to insert the fully operational PCs easily into the headrests. Passengers in the rear seat can use their Office applications such as PowerPoint, Excel, and Word in the vehicle, plus WLAN and UMTS provide them with Internet access, enabling them to download and answer their e-mails during the trip. Furthermore, integrated Webcams even make it possible to hold Net meetings during the trip. Users can also access their music or DVD collection from the car. The trick: The UMPCs are connected to the vehicle's audio system so that the MP3 files or videos stored on the computer can also be used in the vehicle.

EDAG is currently pursuing two solution approaches:

1. A second integration stage will tie the UMPCs into the vehicle architecture for luxury-class vehicles. The advantage: the driver can use operating elements - e.g., on the steering wheel - to access directly the functions or data of the UMPC.

2. The EDAG developers are planning the UMPC as an after-market product for compact and midsize cars. The aim here is to develop concepts for various models produced by car-makers so that the devices can be integrated ergonomically and geometrically into the interior without a jarring visual effect. What makes this especially enticing is the possibility of utilizing the UMPC as an on-board computer and high-quality display device by connecting it to the vehicle architecture, providing yet another service, as well as making the complete functionality of a PC available in the car. With this as a goal, EDAG is working closely with the Intel Corporation on the development of solutions for the electrical and electronic connection as well as on the integration of "nomadic devices" in the vehicle interior.

Innovative Development Competence by EDAG
EDAG will be presenting the "EDAG LUV" in Geneva as proof of its competence, underscoring the capabilities of the world's largest independent development partner to develop economically sound innovative vehicle concepts optimized for production. The project has been realized in only three months, from definition of the concept and design process to the development to the ready-to-roll prototypes, and is on the verge of being realized as a Premium Edition.


BRABUS is one of the partners in this project. The tuner from Bottrop contributed not only the 462 hp / 340 kW high-performance BRABUS 6.1 displacement engine for the EDAG LUV that allows this all-wheel-drive vehicle to accelerate to 100 km/h in a little more than six seconds for a speed of 250 km/h.

BRABUS also provides the classy 10Jx22 monoblock S wheels fitted with 295/35 ZR 22 YOKOHAMA tires, the air suspension module as well as the high-performance brake system from its product line-up. The 12-piston aluminum fixed calipers and ventilated, perforated 380 x 36 millimeter front brake disks and the 6-piston fixed calipers and 355 x 28 mm rear brake disks reach a braking performance typically achieved only by genuine sports cars.

Exclusive all-leather appointments and attractive interior accessories are an additional BRABUS specialty. The BRABUS saddlery combined the finest white leather with black seams and cords for a superior interior finish of the EDAG LUV that leaves nothing to be desired.

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Dodge Caliber

Dodge Caliber

Dodge Caliber is a five-door C-segment hatchback that combines a sporty coupe-like profile with the strength, stance and functionality of an SUV. It features an all-new refined interior and Common-rail Diesel (CRD) engine to satisfy the needs of discerning international customers.

This all-new Euro V capable engine is paired to a six-speed manual transmission and produces 120 kW (163 hp DIN) and 320 Nm (236 lb.-ft.), delivering 16 percent more power, 3 percent more torque and 25 percent more towing capability (1500 kg) compared with the previous diesel engine. Forged steel connecting rods, aluminum head and pistons, and fourth-generation direct-injection system provide durability, weight reduction and performance. Passenger refinement also improves as dual balance shafts and sound-deadening materials reduce the diesel engine's vibration and harshness by 25 percent compared with the previous Dodge Caliber CRD.

Two World Engine offerings (2.0- and 2.4-liter) deliver power and refinement thanks to dual Variable-valve Timing (VVT) and an intake manifold design with flow control valves. Combined, these features produce more power, better fuel economy and a smoother, quieter operation than engines without them. The 2.0-liter World Engine replaces the 1.8-liter engine, delivering 4 percent more power (115 kW /156 hp DIN) and 13 percent more torque (190 Nm / 140 lb.-ft.). For even greater performance, the 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine delivers 125 kW (170 hp DIN) and 220 Nm (162 lb.-ft.) of torque.

The new Dodge Caliber debuts at the 2009 International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt, featuring an all-new refined interior with a more harmonious design aesthetic executed with premium materials and craftsmanship. An all-new designed instrument panel features a more integrated look and includes additional cubby space, center storage bin and larger climate controls. Bright satin silver accents add contrast to Dodge Caliber's interior design, while chromed accents brighten heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) vents, shift bezel, door handles and cluster rings. New door-trim panels and center console with armrest split-lid feature padded soft-touch materials for improved passenger comfort.


"The Dodge Caliber is not your typical C-segment car. When we launched the Dodge Caliber only a few years ago, its bold style made a clear statement on the European roads, allowing owners to be active, stand out and do more," said Mike Accavitti, President and Chief Executive Officer - Dodge Brand, Chrysler Group LLC. "Now paired with an all-new turbo-diesel engine that offers better fuel consumption and performance and an improved interior full of value and customer-friendly features, the Dodge Caliber continues to offer our European clients unique Dodge attitude combined with one of the best value proposition in the segment."

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Chrysler ecoVoyager Concept

Chrysler ecoVoyager Concept

The Chrysler's concept for 2008 - the ecoVoyager - marries an elegant American design with fuel cell Range-extended Electric Vehicle technology.

Featuring crisscrossing forms defined by hard lines with fluid intersections, the style vocabulary of the ecoVoyager embodies Chrysler's harmonisation of functional technology with beautifully-styled exteriors and interiors.
The Chrysler ecoVoyager concept was developed for customers wanting a travel experience on par with a private jet, but without a lot of fancy gadgetry. These customers seek three critical attributes: elegance, simplicity and serenity.

The Chrysler ecoVoyager Concept Technology
The all-new Chrysler ecoVoyager's wheels are driven by an electric motor, with power primarily supplied by a lithium-ion battery pack capable of satisfying a consumer's typical daily commute of less than 40 miles.
The electric motor develops 200 kilowatts (268 horsepower), enabling acceleration from 0 to 60 mph in less than eight seconds. A regenerative braking system captures energy that would normally be lost and returns it to the battery, making the Chrysler ecoVoyager concept a very efficient and spacious vehicle.

Chrysler ecoVoyager Concept Exterior
Expressive details of the Chrysler ecoVoyager concept include panoramic roof glass bisected by a centre spine, tight body overhangs and a dramatic boat-tail back end. The sinuous shapes of the window graphics, headlamps, tail lamps and grille openings are inspired by Chrysler's storied winged badge.
The curving trapezoidal shape of the ecoVoyager's grille is echoed by the clear lens-covered shadow box that houses the rear license plate. The sloping backlight features a similar shape, emphasizing the repeating harmony of the ecoVoyager's design elements.

Chrysler ecoVoyager Concept Interior
By placing the front wheels of the Chrysler ecoVoyager concept farther forward than usual, designers were able to create greater interior roominess and increased legroom, especially in the rear seats.
In the ecoVoyager's spacious interior, the size, design and location of all controls have been rethought to provide its four pampered passengers the luxury of having every feature within effortless reach.
The ecoVoyager's windshield defroster and cabin air-conditioning outlets in the instrument panels and doors, for example, are invisible beneath a recessed perforated mesh. This avoids visually-disruptive array sliding vanes and protruding knobs. Even the colour of the interior -- soft Dove Gray with warm cherry wood accents — is designed to promote a relaxed ambiance.
The Chrysler ecoVoyager's unconventional instrument panel features a broad, leather-covered angled surface, slightly V-shaped in plan view and fronted by a full-width display screen set just below the windshield. The left and right outer ends of this non-glare screen contain the side-view mirror image, while a third camera image in front of the driver serves as the rear-view mirror.

The ecoVoyager's four individual chairs are contoured for personalised comfort. The seat framing is exposed, with under-seat storage drawers. Front seats have individual cantilevered, adjustable armrests containing the window controls and heat/massage switches, while individual rear-seat armrests fold into the cabin back panel. With the ability to store six 20-ounce bottles, the floor console dividing the rear seats accommodates hot or cold beverages.
A recessed area in the headliner between the two longitudinal skylights contains the "Direct Sound" function. With this feature, the musical entertainment choice of each individual occupant can be directed to him or her without the use of headphones, and without disturbing others in the car.
Sleek, refined, efficient and superbly comfortable, the Chrysler ecoVoyager concept vehicle offers a new experience in stress-free travel.

Chrysler ecoVoyager Concept Specifications

Vehicle Type: Range-extended Electric Vehicle (40-mile all-electric range with hydrogen fuel cell range extender), Two-row seating, four-passenger

Weight and Dimensions
* Weight/GVWR: 2750 lbs./3500 lbs.
* Length: 191.2 inches/4856mm
* Width at H-point: 75.4 inches/1915mm
* Height: 63.0 inches/1600mm
* Wheelbase: 116.0 inches/2946mm
* Couple 1-2: 45.4 inches/1154mm
* Front overhang: 34.0 inches/864mm
* Rear overhang: 41.2 inhces/1046mm
* Track front/rear: 65.6 inches/1666mm
* Approach angle: 15.0 degrees
* Departure angle: 20.9 degrees
* Turn circle: 40 feet/12.2m
* Maximum width: 75.4 inches/1915mm

Powertrain and Suspension
* Layout : Front wheel drive
* Motor: Single electric
* Power: 200 kW (268 hp)
* Regenerative braking
* Battery: 16 kWh Li-ion battery pack
* Range extender: Hydrogen fuel cell, PEM 45kW, 700bar (10,000psi) high pressure tanks
* Suspension
o Front - MacPherson Strut
o Rear - MacPherson Strut

Wheels and Tyres
* Tyre size front/rear: P235/45R22x8 30.3 inches/770mm
* Tyre manufacturer: Goodyear

Colour Scheme
* Exterior: Polar Ice Blue
* Interior: Dove Gray

Key Performance Attributes
* 0-60 mph: 8.8 seconds
* Standing ¼ mile: 12.9 seconds
* Top speed: 115 mph
* All-electric range: 40 miles
* Total range: 300 miles

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Chrysler Pronto Cruizer

Chrysler Pronto Cruizer Concept

The Chrysler Pronto Cruizer was a concept car created by the DaimlerChrysler brand, Chrysler. The Pronto Cruizer was first introduced at the 1999 Geneva Auto Show. The Pronto Cruizer is one of the most famous concept cars of all time since it was not only the foundation of the famous Chrysler PT Cruiser, but was also recreated by toy car maker Maisto.

The Pronto Cruizer had a 1.6 L I4 engine with a five-speed manual transmission borrowed from the second generation Dodge Neon. The design was also derived from the Neon, but with elements borrowed from another DaimlerChrysler concept car, the Plymouth Pronto. The Pronto Cruizer had a grille and fenders that rivaled the one used on the unique Plymouth Prowler. A roll-back fabric top was used on the Pronto Cruizer as well.


The scale model reproductions
The Pronto Cruizer was recreated as a scale model by Maisto after its rise of popularity. It was reproduced first as a 1:18 scale model with the basic Aztec Yellow paint job. Later, another scale model of the Pronto Cruizer was released by Maisto, this time having a theme from Marvel's Incredible Hulk.

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Caparo T1

The Caparo T1 to present next generation supercar.

The Caparo T1 - possibly the world's quickest 2-seater road and track car with a performance equal to an A1 GP racecar - will join a showcase of exotic vehicles in a special 'SuperCar Paddock' feature area at the British International Motor Show.

Commenting on Caparo's intention to commoditise advanced composite materials for high volume vehicle manufacture while maintaining a strong UK component manufacturing base Macgowan added: "Not only does this show real technical prowess and solid commitment but it's also a rational business decision given the UK hosts more volume car makers than any other country in Europe. In addition, the Caparo T1 provides further evidence of the UK working hard to deliver more sustainable motoring by using its advanced motorsport and aerospace technology to help car makers develop new models fit for the 21st century."

"The Caparo T1 is a showcase of our design, development and manufacturing capabilities and it is a demonstration of our technical ability to design a whole car," said Caparo Vehicle Products chief executive Richard Butler. "It may seem paradoxical given its astonishing performance, but the Caparo T1 also has the serious purpose of helping car makers apply racecar technology to everyday vehicles thereby making them lighter and more fuel efficient and hence less harmful to the environment."

The Caparo generated £725m of income last year and has put its considerable financial muscle behind the high profile Caparo T1 project to help spearhead its ambition to become a leading Tier 1 supplier particularly in advanced composite materials, which will help carmakers reduce vehicle mass and in turn fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.

The ultra lightweight Caparo T1 has been developed using aerospace and high formula racing technology. The car's efficient and compact 2.4-litre V8 engine develops almost 500bhp in a vehicle weighing less than 500kg. The result is a significant technical breakthrough; being the world's first ever road and track car to produce 1,000bhp-per-tonne which defines an entirely new breed of exotic - and far from ordinary - supercar that is lighter than a Caterham but with twice the power-to-weight ratio of a Bugatti Veyron. In turn, this endows the car with an extraordinary 0-100-0mph time of 8.5 seconds, which is directly comparable to an A1 GP race car.

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Cadillac Converj Concept

Cadillac Converj Concept

The Cadillac Converj Concept General Motors unveiled a further glimpse at the potential of electric propulsion, this time in the form of luxury transportation. The Cadillac Converj was developed as a well-appointed grand touring coupe with a bold design and a host of interactive technology.

The four-passenger Cadillac Converj concept is intended to show how GM's revolutionary electric propulsion technology - called Voltec - can power a luxury coupe with a typically Cadillac "no compromises" design. The technology enables up to 40 miles of gas- and emissions-free electric driving with extended-range capability of hundreds of miles.

Voltec - innovative propulsion technology
The Cadillac Converj's Voltec electric propulsion system is made up of a 16-kWh, T-shaped battery, an electric drive unit, and a four-cylinder engine-generator. It uses electricity as its primary source to drive the car.

When the battery's energy is low, the Cadillac Converj seamlessly switches to extended-range mode. During this secondary level of operation, electricity needed to power the vehicle is created on-board by a flex-fuel-powered engine that operates much like a home generator to create electricity. The engine-generator ensures a constant supply of power for hundreds of miles until the car is refueled or plugged in to recharge the battery. This extended-range mode eliminates the range anxiety that comes with driving pure electric vehicles that offer no backup power when the battery charge is low.

Pure Cadillac design :
There's no mistaking the Converj for anything but a Cadillac, according to Lutz. "An aggressive, forward-leaning profile hints at a new, progressive theme and proportion in Cadillac's design evolution," he says. "The new proportion showcases a uniquely shaped, modern vision of a personal luxury 2+2."
The overall shape is reinforced by a prominent, sweeping body line with large, 21-inch (front) and 22-inch (rear) wheels pushed to the edges of the body. The Cadillac Converj exterior is painted a dark silver tri-coat that GM designers dubbed "Reaction."

An all-glass roof incorporates solar panels that help offset power drain from the vehicle's accessories.
Additionally, several aerodynamic and design efficiencies were incorporated to enhance the driving range, including:
* A full under-vehicle cover (belly pan)
* Minimal grille openings that reduce drag at the front of the vehicle
* Low-profile rearview cameras replace conventional outside mirrors to reduce drag
* Wheels are shaped to push air outward for smoother body side airflow
The Cadillac Converj also incorporates vertical headlamp and taillamp elements, with light pipe technology.

The Luxury meets technology inside
The Cadillac Converj's interior has advanced features and luxurious appointments blending efficiency and environmental consciousness. The 2+2 configuration is trimmed in contrasting Winter White synthetic suede - including the top of the instrument panel - and Midnight Black leather, with polished aluminum and wood grain accents. Renewable materials are used throughout such as wool-blend carpeting, a headliner made from silk, suede made from post-industrial content and more.

A technologically advanced driver center increases efficiency and reduces the draw on the battery. Features include:
* New, organic light-emitting diode technology used on reconfigurable instrument cluster
* Touch-screen navigation, climate, center-stack controls and audio systems
* Adjustable, overhead white ambient lighting
* Unique "power on" sequence featuring blue-lit console graphics
* Screen displays for features including regenerative braking, battery charge level and power output
* No inside rearview or outside mirrors; cameras provide surrounding images on a screen placed high on the instrument panel for a full, panoramic view
* Push-button ignition and power-folding front seats

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Bentley GTZ Zagato Concept

Bentley GTZ Zagato Concept

The Zagato Atelier takes great pleasure in introducing the Bentley GTZ, the latest in a long line of collaborations with the very best British car manufacturers over the Milanese Atelier 's 89.

Following on from the recent presentations of the Ferrari 575GTZ in 2006 and the Maserati GS Zagato at the Villa D'Este in 2007, the Bentley GTZ is a neo-classic Zagato interpretation of the style of a British GT.


The project was conceived during a discussion between Dr. Ing. Franz Josef Paefgen, CEO of Bentley Motors Limited and Dr. Andrea Zagato, President of Zagato at the Pebble Beach Concours D'Elegance in 2006. At a 'Tribute to Zagato' presentation, Zagato showed a selection of 50' 60's models, near by the recent berlinettas presented during the last 3 years. Dr. Paefgen was struck by the beauty of those cars and reminded of the historical significance of the art of the Carrozzeria (coachbuilders) which was both being maintained and carried forward by Zagato.

Starting from the styling cues of the last neo classical coupes, which became milestones of Zagato design in the new millennium, the challenge was to apply the same design language to a completely different proportion of vehicle: the Bentley Continental GT Speed.

With many technical restrictions and carry-over parts in order to maintain the basic functions of this extremely sophisticated vehicle, the Zagato design team managed to give a distinctive and attractive character to the Zagato coupe.


Pronounced fender lines, double-bubble roof, round tail with all new rear combination lamp are harmoniously integrated in to an imposing body adding a more aggressive and sharp feeling without losing the absolute solidity which is part of the great charm of the original coupe. The same time the hand painted pin-stripe coordinated with the interior colour adds a refined and exclusive elegance to the extrovert body lines helps to make the look of this car appropriate to be special limited-production model born between two great automotive cultures: Bentley and Zagato.

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Renault Megane Coupe Concept

Renault Megane Coupe Concept

The Renault has chosen the Geneva Motor Show to take the wraps off its Mégane Coupé Concept show car which foreshadows a compact production coupe to be released at a later date. Like New Laguna, it points to an evolution towards more fluid, sportier styling from Renault. Renault Mégane Coupé Concept targets drivers who are not only drawn by the notion of driving pleasure but who also seek to express their personality through their vehicle. Mégane Coupé Concept symbolizes Renault's vision of what a genuine compact sports coupe should deliver, namely character and dynamism, two traits epitomized by the show car's unprecedented door-opening kinematics.

Distinctive looks that exude personality and dynamism
The Renault Mégane Coupé Concept provides a foretaste of the forthcoming Mégane Coupe. "This show car emphatically showcases the evolution at Renault Design. Its squatter proportions and powerful, energetic styling talk directly to the driver's senses; they say 'driving pleasure'. The spectacular, unprecedented door-opening kinematics add that little touch of magic which contributes to the dream factor associated with the automobile," explains Renault's Patrick Le Quément, Senior Vice President, Corporate Design. Of a total length of 4.51 metres, Renault Mégane Coupé Concept features a modern, dynamic silhouette with taut lines that seem to suggest perpetual movement, while its alert, expressive front-end looks point at once to a truly dynamic personality.
The juxtaposition of headlamp modules with aluminium-finish air-intakes also conveys an impression of fluidity and movement. The two rows of main and dipped beam lights sit on a crystal-like striated strip which fills the sidelight and daytime running light functions.
The headlamps use high-performance light-emitting diodes which are both long-lasting and extremely efficient. The foglamps also employ LED technology and blend harmoniously with the dynamic, front-end styling.

The boot, which pulls open and then lifts to minimize vertical travel, echoes the kinematics of the doors which are divided into two sections. The panelled door itself is topped by a separate glazed area and, as they open, the two parts deploy gracefully and elegantly in an independent movement redolent of dragonfly wings. A carbon arm at the rear of the doors connects them to the body structure and the system ensures particularly easy access for passengers.
In addition to its practical aspect, this technological feature reveals a cabin that blends effortlessly with the elegance and energy expressed by the exterior.

The cabin: a compelling extension of the exterior's dynamic voluptuousness
The interior is redolent of the world of contemporary furniture. The independent, asymmetric front seats, which rise up from the sills, seem to float in midair. Their wafer-like forms express an airy lightness, while their enveloping design is a pledge of comfort and holds the occupants firmly in place. The aperture revealed by the open doors carries over to the front seat shells and the upper part of the two rear seats.

The futuristic, ethereal dashboard features expressive, flowing lines and can be divided into two distinct sections: the red lacquered main structure and black nubuck inserts which can hold small items. This embedded zone houses the sophisticated instrumentation which takes its inspiration from aviator-style watches, including a speedometer which displays the speed in analogue form on the periphery and in digital form in the centre, plus an analogue rev-counter. Both feature black metallic backgrounds with white graphics and red backlighting.

The choice of colours and materials is another means by which the exterior and interior have been harmonized to highlight Renault Mégane Coupé Concept's volumes and magic.
The iridescent Dragon Grey body-colour goes well with the dragonfly-like door-opening mechanism and the paintwork's rainbow finish gives a fresh vision of the car every time the light changes: even at a standstill, it appears to be in movement. Meanwhile, the interior's contrasting colour-scheme underpins the dynamic exterior thanks to the blend of fire red lacquer (dashboard, upper part of the centre console, front seatbacks, etc.) and softer black leather or nubuck for the door panels, seat cushions and centre console). The door panels themselves incorporate supple, slide-locking stowage, while the floor is protected by a black, modern, graphic mesh.

The cabin equipment is modern and intuitive
The different controls have been inspired by the Renault-pioneered Touch Design approach and are both simple and practical. The central multimedia control is coupled with a display divided into three zones. The central part displays all journey-related information (navigation, radio, music, video, Bluetooth telephone), while the screens either side show the images relayed by cameras incorporated in the exterior mirrors. Renault Mégane Coupé Concept is locked and unlocked using a Samsung F700 mobile phone which serves as a hands-free card and connects to the centre console. Both rear passengers benefit from a portable Samsung P2 audio/video multimedia player with touch screen which they can use to swap files using the mp3/video Bluetooth controls.
The four-zone climate control system allows each passenger to select the temperature they prefer using controls housed either side of the dashboard in the case of the front passengers or on the front seatbacks for rear occupants.

A show car dedicated to passion and driving pleasure
Renault Mégane Coupé Concept's generous bumper, wide, low grille and alveolar air-intake point to the presence of a high-performance powerplant under the bonnet.
Indeed, Renault Mégane Coupé Concept is powered by a 200hp (147kW) 2.0 Turbo petrol engine which delivers torque of 280Nm at 2,600rpm and peak power of 200hp at 5,800rpm to ensure punch and flexibility at all engine speeds for everyday motoring pleasure. Mated to a manual six-speed gearbox, the 2-litre turbocharged unit drives Renault Mégane Coupé Concept from a standstill to 100kph in just 7.2 seconds, yet it returns economical fuel consumption of just 6.5 litres/100km (154g of CO2/km).

Renault Mégane Coupé Concept is a compact, stylish, dynamic coupe which delivers undeniable driving pleasure, while its sporty calling is also expressed by its modern, elegant cabin. This show car, which builds on the trend established by Laguna Coupé Concept, sees Renault take its will to dial genuine passion into its cars yet another step forward.

Dimensions
* Length (mm) 4,514
* Width (mm) 1,908
* Height (mm) 1,371
* Height with doors open (mm) 2,085
* Wheelbase (mm) 2,749
* Front track (mm) 1,658
* Rear track (mm) 1,648
* Front overhang (mm) 950
* Rear overhang (mm) 815
* Unladen weight (kg) 1,310
* Boot volume (litres) 290
Technical data
* Engine 2.0 T petrol (200hp)
* Power (hp) 200hp (147kW)
* Maximum torque (Nm) 280Nm at 2,600rpm
* Acceleration from standstill to 100kph (s) 7.2
* Standard cycle CO2 emissions / fuel consumption 154g/km / 6.5 litres/100km
* Gearbox Six-speed manual gearbox
* with 'stop and start' system
* Transmission Front-wheel drive
* Tyres 245/35 ZR21
* Wheels 21-inch

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