Blog Top Car: December 2010

Idries Noah’s T2 Concept: E55 AMG Performance without the Guilt

Graphic artist and automotive aficionado Idries Noah wows us yet again with the T2 Concept: an eco-friendly hybrid electric supercar. The South African designer, whose previous creations include the Audi R8-rivalling BMW M Sports Coupe and Dodge Viper-esque Project Fireblade, envisions the T2 Concept as, the “world’s fastest environmentally-friendly car”.
Kudos must be given to Noah for creating something that doesn’t look like a mere hodgepodge of other supercars like so many other artists’ work. I especially like the mix of sharp corners and harsh curves that make up the design.
Powered by a 3.5-litre V6 engine mated to two electric motors for a theoretical total output of 469 hp (350 kw), Noah estimates that the T2 Concept is good for a (imagined?) 0 to 60 mph (0 to 96 km/h) time of 4 seconds. This is roughly the same as a W211 Mercedes-Benz E55 AMG.
And yes, I realize how silly it is to be talking power and performance figures for a car that is, in actual fact, non-existent. But just look at it and tell me you wouldn’t like one of these things in your garage in five to ten years.
You can check out more of Idries Noah’s work at his website and check out the T2 Concept in our gallery below.

By Tristan Hankins
Source: IDI3D

New Hyundai i40: VW Passat and Ford Mondeo Rival Teased Ahead of Geneva Debut

These are the first teaser renderings of Hyundai's new competitor in the European market D-segment, the i40 that will take on the likes of the VW Passat, Ford Mondeo, Renault Laguna and Toyota Avensis from next year. It is based on a modified version of the North American Sonata's platform and aside from the estate model seen here, it will also be offered in a four-door sedan version, which will enter the market later towards the end of 2011.

Designed and developed by Hyundai’s German R&D centre in Russelsheim with European buyers in mind, the station wagon's exterior styling is heavily influenced by the South Korean automaker's Genus Concept model from 2006 (scroll down for photos).
Hyundai's mid-sizer will be available in Europe with the same range of petrol and diesel engines as its sister model, the new [EU-spec] Kia Optima.
At launch, the palette of engines will include a 2.0-liter four-cylinder petrol with direct injection and an output of 170-horsepower, and two variants of the firm's 1.7-liter turbo-diesel with 115 HP and 136 HP. The South Korean firm will further enhance the i40's engine range with a more powerful diesel unit starting from 2012.
The new i40 in estate form will make its world premiere at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show in March and go on sale across Europe before summer of the same year.

Source: Hyundai , Via: Hyundai-blog

New Honda Civic Concept to be Unwrapped at Detroit Show, Previews Production Model

What you see pictured above is an official rendering of the Honda Civic Concept, which will be revealed in the flesh at the upcoming 2011 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in January 2011. According to the Japanese automaker, the concept is more of a pre-production study that will preview the actual, ninth-generation 2012 Civic, which will go on-sale in North America in spring next year.
The illustration depicts a coupe model with possible styling influences from the European market Civic hatchback (front) and the North American Accord Coupe (profile). Honda did not release any specific details on the car, but we suspect that we'll learn more within the next couple of weeks, so stay tuned.

Saab Announces 9-5 Specification Upgrades for the UK Market

Saab UK has announced some specification upgrades for its new 9-5 saloon series and more specifically, the Vector SE models. To sweeten the deal for buyers, the Swedish automaker has equipped the Vector SE with full leather upholstery, instead of a leather and textile mix, and larger 18-inch Carve wheels, which replace the 17-inch Blade alloys, without increasing the price.
The Swedish maker also offers a revised chassis for the 160 hp 2.0-liter diesel variant equipped with a manual transmission. According to Saab, the new setup, combined with the bigger wheels, improves handling compared to the previous sport chassis.
Jonathan Nash, Saab GB Managing Director, commented: “These improvements are the result of feedback from the UK automotive media. The improved driving characteristics address issues related to ride comfort on UK roads. The fact that the engineering team have managed to make the changes without affecting the impressive CO₂ emissions of just 139g/km for the manual 2.0-litre TiD 160PS car show that the small independent Saab engineering team can respond very quickly to market requirements”.

By Csaba Daradics

2011 Ford Territory: Redesigned Australian Crossover Teased

Ford Motor Corp.'s Australian division has released a teaser illustration of its new-look 2011 Territory, some six months ahead of the crossover's market launch. The current Territory is based on the underpinnings of the local market Falcon sedan and was first introduced in Australia in 2004 having received some subtle updates throughout its production life.

It is believed that the 2011 Territory will continue to make use of current model's platform adding fresh styling inside and out, plus a number of technology highlights, including the introduction of turbo-diesel power.
"The Ford Territory set a new benchmark when it was first released and it is set to achieve this again – and more," said Bob Graziano, President and CEO of Ford Australia. "This is an exceptional SUV. It wears an exciting new look and will boast an extensive list of technical highlights. The Ford Australia team is taking the Territory to an all-new level of performance, refinement and quality, and customers will definitely experience these advancements when they drive it."
Although Ford did not get into any details on the powertrain options in the press release, the company had previously announced that the updated Territory would benefit from the introduction of the Ford and Peugeot-Citroen PSA co-developed 2.7-liter V6 turbo diesel engine.
There's also a strong possibility that Ford may add its 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder EcoBoost engine to the range, as the new powerplant has already been confirmed for the Australian market Falcon.
The company also noted that in the next 18-months, approximately 85 percent of the entire Ford Australia new-model catalog will either be replaced or updated. New models planned for Australia include the latest iteration of the Focus and the Aussie-designed Ranger pickup truck, which was recently revealed at the Sydney Motor Show.

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BMW 1-Series M Coupe Allegedly Laps the Nürburgring in 8:12" Making it Faster than E46 M3

The BMW 1-Series M Coupe is pretty fast on paper. Reaching the 60 mph (96 km/h) mark in just 4.7 seconds is no small feat, but nowadays, it seems that performance cars need to have a respectable “Ring” time under there belt to command respect. Now, a forum member of the 1Addicts fan site who calls himself "SteveD" claims that the Ring time for the 335-horsepower strong M model is 8 minutes and 12 seconds.
If true (and according to the Nürburgring lap times list posted on Wikipedia), this means the entry-level M model is 10 seconds faster than the E46 M3, on par with the E86 Z4 M Coupe, but 7 seconds slower than the E92 M3 .
Of course, just because something is posted on a forum, doesn’t necessarily make it true. However, it seems that “SteveD” is none other than Steve Davies, a UK journalist who writes for Skiddmark. When asked where did he received the info, "SteveD" wrote “directly from BMW when we filmed the car”.
And indeed, Skiddmark does feature a piece about the 1-Series M Coupe and it contains the information posted on 1addicts. Still, we’re going to take this one with a grain of salt until we have the official confirmation.
You can see how the 1 Series M Coupe's alleged 'Ring lap time compares with other models from BMW and other makers in the list below.

By Csaba Daradics

Nurburgring Lap Times as Posted on Wikipedia:
• E46 M3 CSL - 7:50
• E90/E92 M3 - 8:05
• E63 M6 - 8:09
• 1 series M coupe - 8:12
• Z4 M-Coupe - 8:12
• E60 M5 - 8:13
• Alpina B3 Biturbo - 8:14
• Z4 M-Roadster - 8:15
• Alpina Roadster S (Z4) - 8:15
• E46 M3 - 8:22
• 335i E92 Coupe - 8:26
Other Models Compared:
• 911 Carrera S PDK (997.5) - 7:50
• Audi R8 4.2 - 8:04
• Cayman S - 8:04 (by Walter Röhrl)
• Audi RS4 - 8:09
• Audi TT-RS - 8:09
• BMW 1 series M coupe - 8:12
• Aston Martin V8 Vantage - 8:13
• Mercedes C63 AMG PP - 8:13
• Corvette C6 - 8:15
• Cayman S - 8:16 (Sport Auto)
• Porsche Boxter S (987.5) - 8:18
• Lexus IS-F - 8:18
• 2010 VW Golf R - 8:23
• Audi S5 (2007) - 8:26
• Audi TT-S (2008) - 8:29

Source: Skiddmark , Via: 1Addicts

German Take on English Tradition: Volkswagen's All-Electric London Taxi Concept

Over the decades, the London Taxi has become a British icon, just like the double-decker bus or the red telephone booth. However, this might change in the future, as stricter emissions regulations could threaten the aging diesel cabs. Volkswagen’s EV Taxi Concept, which is based on the forthcoming Up! supermini, could offer a solution to this problem, should it ever make it into production.

Motivated by a 115 hp (86 kW) electric motor that draws energy from a set of lithium-ion batteries, the Taxi Concept can reach a top speed of 74 mph (121 km/h) and has driving range of 186 miles (300 km). According to the German automaker, an 80 per cent charge of the batteries takes approximately one hour to complete.
It’s clear that, performance-wise, the EV is more than suited for taxi duty, but Volkswagen didn’t stop there. Designing a body with minimal overhangs, the automaker was able to create a roomy cabin, albeit for only two passengers at the back along with their luggage. Still, that’s pretty impressive if we take into consideration that the concept measures just 3.7 meters (146 inches) in length.
The cabin has a simple, clutter-free design with the most important functions, such as fare information, climate control and entertainment, controlled through a touchscreen display mounted next to the driver. A second display provides information for the passengers.
The Taxi Concept doesn’t fulfill current London taxi regulations, but it does offer an insight into future possibilities, which, in our opinion, are worth considering.

By Csaba Daradics

Korean Designer Mixes Science and Nature in a Saab Sports Sedan Concept for 2025

Earlier this year, Swedish automaker Saab was saved from the scrapheap by Spyker and a loan from the European Investment Bank. In spite of this, nothing much has changed. The stylish new 9-5 has gone on sale overseas, with the 9-4X crossover following in Q2 2011. And the aging 9-3 trundles on, blissfully unaware that anything has happened.

Korean design student Youngho Jong is looking towards Saab’s future with his 2025 Advanced Warning System Vehicle concept: a rakish, four-door saloon with coupe-like styling. And no headroom, by the looks of it, but that’s a forgivable oversight. More interesting to us, however, is how he used his knowledge of nature and human psychology to come up with a vehicle that isn’t just smart, it’s downright sinister.
Jong’s goal was to design a vehicle that would warn other drivers of impending danger. With his research showing that 50% of vehicles accidents are caused by carelessness, excessive speed and tailgating, Jong wanted to create a car that would warn other drivers to back off and drive with care.
If you are following the 2025 concept too closely, for instance, slits open up in its rear panels revealing amber hazard lights. Patches of the car’s skin also darken, warning you that you are too close. The same amber slips are found on the front and sides of the vehicle. Jong took his inspiration from nature’s Fire Salamander, which uses its bright, menacing colours to ward off potential predators.
Jong also incorporate sharp edges and the colours red and yellow to further emphasises the possible danger. He also mentions that the vehicle’s skin is constructed of a soft, impact absorbing material that reduces pedestrian injuries and vehicle damage in collisions.
All in all, it’s a very clever, if far-fetched solution to a very real problem we face in the world today. The technology isn’t quite there yet, but it’s not too hard to believe that cars twenty years hence will use a system like this. As for the design, I leave the final verdict up to you, the readers.

By Tristan Hankins

Sources: Umea Institute & Cardesign

Gemballa Returns with Tornado Tuning Package for the New Porsche Cayenne

German tuning specialist Gemballa has announced a comprehensive package of goodies for the Porsche Cayenne called Tornado. This is the company’s first creation since former CEO and founder Uwe Gemballa was found dead in South Africa, after allegedly being involved in a money laundering scheme with a wanted Czech felon.

Starting with the bodykit, most tuners apply carbon fiber body panels by bonding them to modified factory steel pieces. However, this method doesn’t lighten the car and according to current Gemballa CEO, Andreas Schwarz, it’s not the way these materials should be used. “Carbon-fibre is a high strength, low weight structural material that needs to be used honestly, and not just for decoration”, Mr. Schwarz said.
Consequently, Gemballa went on and replaced most of the steel panels as well as many plastic parts on the Cayenne with carbon fiber equivalents. As a result, the company claims it has shaved a total of 70 kg or 154 lbs over the standard car, while retaining all security-related features, like side impact protection bars.
The Tornado boasts a modified front bumper with enormous air intakes that channel air to the brakes and are flanked by vertical LED daytime running lights. The wheel arches have been significantly widened, increasing overall width to 2.05 meters (81 inches). Many of the lightweight panels were left exposed, creating a sharp contrast with the white paintjob. At the back we can find rounded tail-lights, complementing the design of the four exhaust tips.
Huge 22-inch alloy wheels shod in 205/35 front and 335/30 rear tires, round up the exterior updates.
Gemballa doesn’t go into details when it comes to interior modifications, simply stating that these are still in development and will be “characterized by both elegance and functionality”.
As far as power is concerned, Gemballa is working on a Stage Two engine conversion for the Tornado, which will increase peak output to 700 hp and 1,000 Nm (738 lb-ft) of torque, through turbocharging. Upgraded Brembo brakes accompany the power boost.
The Tornado will have a limited production run of only 30 units. Full specs and pricing should follow soon.

By Csaba Daradics

Lamborghini Super million products

With a new concept called Sesto Elemento launch, Lamborghini is known to shine in the big show and performance eclipsed other car brands.

After much speculation, the images on the same drip irritation to the extreme fans, Lamborghini has unveiled the secret of their latest concept the Sesto Elemento. The car emerged at the pre-exhibition event this year's Paris Motor Show, the Volkswagen Group's booth.

Elemento Sesto concept is built on the size of the Gallardo, with ultra-light weight due to structural bodywork is made from lightweight carbon fiber materials advanced. Vehicle weight display with very nice numbers, 999 kg, equipped with V10 engine with a capacity of 570 horsepower. This is also available on the engine model Gallardo Superleggera.

He Stepahn Winkelmann, president and CEO of Automobili Lamborghini, said: "Lamborghini Sesto evident Elemento future of the super sports cars - ultra light weight, clever combination between high speed and exciting driving feel . We have read all the efforts and achievements in their technical design tricks to create excellent Elemento Sesto. "

Stepahn said Winkelmann, Lamborghini's ability to conquer the carbon fiber materials have contributed significantly to the success of this concept, in addition to the help of renowned experts in lightweight Audi AG. He said technical lightweight system is a core of any future super sports car which, to be just for high speed, reduces emissions. The future of Lamborghini car will be inspired by the form this Elemento Sesto.

BMW X1 Concept

As a founder of the segment SAV (Sports Activity Vehicle), BMW presented in Paris in 2008 a new world in the segment of premium compact cars a Concept Car BMW X range, the BMW X1 Concept.

BMW X1 Concept

The extraordinary potential offered by new vehicle category BMW dreaming now allows "small", almost confirming the lines of BMW X1 to come. Built on the platform of the 1 Series, and it follows the forms of Coupу, the X1 wants to retrace the path that led to the success of BMW X6, and offering the typical combination of driving pleasure and high functionality. For the first time these features were transferred to a car in the segment of premium compact cars.

BMW X1 Concept

In presenting this new BMW X1 Concept, the House of Monaco meets the requirements of a modern target that is suited to a car to drive every day to an active lifestyle and a fun driving ever again, like all other BMW models in the range "X".

BMW X1 Concept

The success story of the models of the BMW X range has again provided the inspiration for the development of innovative vehicle concepts. The BMW BMW X1 Concept exudes the charm of mobility agile, versatile and safe even on the dirt, made in a new automotive category.

BMW X1 Concept

The design of the Concept car is clearly the merits of the model. The BMW X1 Concept is a symbol of agility and versatility both in terms of driving characteristics and universality of use.

BMW X1 Concept

The style of a model range of BMW X was combined with the slender and elegant proportions. The BMW X1 Concept comes with its own well designed within the family of BMW models in the range X. The front incisor form that accentuates the width indicates the robust and athletic coach. An element of protection in contrasting color emphasizes the width of the carriageway.

BMW X1 Concept

With the aesthetic cog in a central position, the short distance between the front axle and the steering wheel and slightly squared shape of the wheel, the BMW X1 Concept reveals its affinity with other BMW models in the range X.

BMW X1 Concept

Characteristic tail lights with rear L powered LED unit by emitting a light uniform. The slightly slanted rear window gives the BMW X1 Concept sports an inspiration, with the horizontal lines that highlight its width.

BMW X1 Concept

The overall success of the market and the high appeal of the models of the BMW X range is not only the result of precise and target-oriented concept car, but also of the characteristics typical of the BMW brand in the automotive category. The charm of a range of BMW X is always associated with a premium quality that does not descend to compromise.

BMW X1 Concept

The relationship between driving performance and fuel consumption models of the BMW X range reach values which would normally leave behind the comparable models of competition.

BMW X1 Concept

The Concept Car suggests what could be the characteristics of a model of the BMW X range in the segment of premium compact cars. Its design indicates the belonging to the family of BMW X range At the same time, the stylistic emphasize the formal language typical of all BMW. The study describes the goal of offering in the segment of premium compact cars, the highest level of driving fun and efficiency, versatility and functionality, as well as safety, comfort and quality. All these attributes were considered in the BMW X1 Concept in order to provide for the production of a series of car within a year.

BMW X1 Concept

Each model of the BMW X range locked in design and driving characteristics of the unmistakable DNA of its automotive category, offering an interpretation of individual typical of the brand and the concept car, so as to ensure a real transfer of brand values and characteristics of a model of the BMW X range in all market segments. This criterion is also satisfied by the BMW X1 Concept.

BMW X1 Concept

Despite the smaller body compared to the models BMW X6, BMW X5 and BMW X3, the study identified is applicable in any context as a model range of BMW X. At the same time, the final design has provided the stylistic accents typical of a BMW that take into account the special needs of the segment of premium compact cars and which transmit impulses in the perception of new cars in this class.

BMW X1 Concept

With a length of 4457 mm external study measuring 108 millimeters less than the BMW X3. The passage of the BMW X1 Concept is 2760 mm.

BMW X1 Concept

Thanks to its proportions and the pattern configuration of four doors and large rear hatch, the study offers a generous feeling of spaciousness. The purity of the forms leave guess a feature adapted to drive every day.

BMW X1 Concept

The BMW X1 Concept combines these qualities with characteristic elegance Sofi ette rifle that the status of a car premium. These features transform the BMW X1 Concept into a trendsetter for a modern urban mobility and progressive.

BMW X1 Concept

The typical style of the mark accentuate the unique charm of the car. The double-kidney BMW mounted vertically, double headlights cut up, the big wheel and slightly squared, the black ribbon that wraps around the lower section of the body, in the strong rib failure, as well as the horizontal lines of the tail indicate clearly identified as the Concept Car BMW model range X.

BMW X1 Concept

The front end of BMW X1 Concept expresses the strength of a model of the BMW X range into a new interpretation.

BMW X1 Concept

The cut applied to dry the top section of typical dual round headlamps gives the BMW Concept Car at a glance particularly intense and focused. This effect is accentuated by a horizontal cover painted in black along the top edge of the headlights.

BMW X1 Concept

Another innovative Stilema is the frame of three-dimensional headlights. This element of design used in the BMW X1 Concept, which is also reflected in the rear and the graphics side of the crystals, draws attention to the highly technical nature of the units and the lighting design in glass. The fog lights have been mounted, as in models of the BMW X range, at both ends above the air intake.

BMW X1 Concept

Moreover, the robust character of BMW X1 Concept is highlighted by a security device. This indicates that the fitness to drive on dirt is embellished elegant silver paint. The front section of the component serves as both protections from the lower edge of the air..

BMW X1 Concept

In view of the profi recognize both the unmistakable proportions of the BMW X1 Concept that the new interpretation of the style of a model ranges of BMW X. The silhouette of the five-door compact is unusually slender, so as to spread the impression of sportiness and agility. Also, the hatchback of the BMW X1 Conceptfollows the shape of a coupe.

BMW X1 Concept

Equally characteristic is the cog in a central position also aesthetically indicates that in all models of the BMW X range balanced interaction between the front wheels and rear wheels in the transmission of power.

BMW X1 Concept

The BMW X1 Concept this interaction is also underlined by a strip mounted along the bottom edge of the plastic coating which extends along the entire side put spar varnished silver.

BMW X1 Concept

Like the front module, the tail of the BMW X1 Concept is equipped with a protection painted silver. The rear section of the broad protection element creates also a chromatic contrast that accentuates the width of the car.

BMW X1 Concept

In the configuration pattern of rear lights have been combined, the typical BMW design and innovative technology. The lighting units have an L shape also clearly recognizable in the design at night. In addition, the design is dominated by night-an innovative technique. The light is very intense and homogeneous and provides power consumption much lower than that of traditional light bulbs.

BMW X1 Concept

Even the paint of the bodywork of the BMW X1 Concept enhances the innovative, modern and at the same time elegant. The new Meridiangold metallic tint emphasizes the personality and dynamics of young Concept Car.

McLaren MP4-12C

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