Thursday, September 30, 2010

Hyundai has announced plans to introduce a supercar-inspired Sonata Turbo at the SEMA Motor Show.
The exterior modifications use "influences from the Brabus Mercedes CLS Rocket sport coupe," said Hyundai in a statement. Details include 20-inch staggered three-piece wheels, matte pearl white paint and carbon-fiber components including grille, interior trim, side mirrors and rear diffuser. "To complete the design, fabricators will incorporate LED foglights into the bumper from the Porsche 911 Turbo," said Hyundai.
The interior will be inspired by the Ferrari F430. There will be a strategically placed stitched leather throughout and carbon fiber trim accents. Those strapped into the leather driver’s seat will take pleasure in performance upgrades including turbo and intake enhancements, and a quad tip dual exhaust.
Hoping to build some hype around the new 2011 Sonata 2.0-liter Turbo before it arrives in showrooms later this year, Hyundai has teamed up with RIDES and 0-60 magazines to trick out the 274-horsepower-strong saloon for the SEMA show, which will take place in Las Vegas this November.

Press Release
RIDES & 0-60 MAGAZINES ROLL TO SEMA IN PEARLY HYUNDAI SONATA TURBO
Supercar-Inspired Sonata Turbo to Make SEMA Debut in Hyundai Booth
FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif., 09/30/2010
To build excitement around the recently launched 2011 Sonata Turbo, Hyundai Motor America teamed up with RIDES and 0-60 magazines to trick out one of the first turbos off the assembly line of its Alabama plant for a debut at this year's SEMA show. Inspired by Ferrari, Mercedes and Porsche, the modified Sonata 2.0T will feature performance parts from leading aftermarket companies and custom fabrication work from RIDES' and 0-60's team of expert builders.
"The Sonata Turbo is an ideal platform for us to bridge the worlds of performance, aesthetics, luxury, technology and style," said Ben Harris, executive publisher, RIDES and 0-60 magazines. "The design we've chosen will accentuate the car's lines and style, using influences from exotic supercars."
The vehicle's exterior modifications will be modest and tasteful, using influences from the four-door Brabus Mercedes CLS Rocket sport coupe to broaden and draw attention to the vehicle's body lines from the factory. Key elements consist of 20-inch concave monobloc wheels, matte pearl white paint and a slew of carbon fiber components including the roof, grill, interior trim, side mirrors and rear diffuser. To complete the design, fabricators will incorporate custom LED fog lights into the bumper.
Inspiration for the sporty interior design came from the Ferrari F430, with strategically placed stitched leather throughout and carbon fiber trim accents. Those strapped into the leather driver's seat will take pleasure in performance upgrades including turbo and intake enhancements, and a quad tip dual exhaust.
The Sonata Turbo will be shown in the Hyundai Booth between November 2-5, 2010 (Booth #24387), among other vehicles from Hyundai Motor America. Outside of SEMA, the 2011 Sonata Turbo will be arriving in dealer showrooms later this year, with 274 hp and 269 lb-ft of torque.
RIDES MAGAZINE
RIDES is the premiere urban automotive enthusiast magazine and represents the worlds of "Street, Speed, Sound and Style." Bridging the worlds between enthusiast and consumer magazines, RIDES captures the essence of today's automotive lifestyle. From the hottest cars, trucks and customizations to celebrity cars, the ultimate in high-end performance, old school classics, new car reviews and the latest trends, if it represents the best in automotive, it's in RIDES. RIDES is published by Harris Publications, one of the country¹s largest special interest enthusiast publishers with over 70 different titles, including such young men's magazines as XXL, 0-60 and Antenna.
0-60 MAGAZINE
0-60 is a new generation of car magazine for today's performance enthusiasts who are looking for the latest in speed, power and fast cars. 0-60 fills the void between mainstream and enthusiast titles, connecting the reader with the latest in everything performance related. From the aftermarket to the OEMs, 0-60 looks at the cars, products, and go-fast bits that help create a bold, aggressive driving experience. 0-60 is published by Harris Publications, one of the country¹s largest special interest publishers with over 70 different titles, including such young men's magazines as XXL, RIDES
Wednesday, July 21, 2010

Hyundai unveiled the first official interior photo of the all-new 2011 Hyundai Elantra. The 2011 Hyundai Elantra interior design is based on the company's new Wind Craft concept that aims to create a dynamic and futuristic image, more appealing to the younger generation.
U.S. versions should be very similar and hopefully the big LCD screen and classy piano-black trim will also be available on local models. The new car should also get puddle lamps installed in the doors and there’s even the chance that heated leather seats may be an option.
Other things we can spot include aluminum pedals, a multifuction steering wheel, a tachometer that displays a 6700 rpm redline, and a speedo that goes up to 240 km/h (149 mph).
This new interior photo offers the first-ever look at the new sedan's cabin, and follows a concept illustration revealed earlier this month.
The 2011 Elantra is likely to debut with a 138bhp 1.6-litre engine mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. The new Elantra will compete with the likes of Honda’s Civic, Toyota’s Corolla and the Chevrolet Cruze to name a few.














Press Release
HYUNDAI UNVEILS AN INTERIOR SHOT OF ALL-NEW AVENTE
Hyundai Motor Company unveils an interior shot of its all-new Avante (badged as Elantra in markets outside Korea), codenamed MD, ahead of the car's official launch in the Korea domestic market in August. With Hyundai's new design concept called the ‘Wind Craft,' the new Avante's interior projects a dynamic and futuristic image that is aimed at the younger generation.
In particular, the silver garnish that starts from the crash pad and leads to the console features a windblown shape that exudes an overall refined and dynamic image. High-glossy black and metallic colors used in the cabinet add more futuristic and high-tech looks to the interior of the all-new Avante.
Thursday, June 24, 2010

Jaguar is to unveil the limited edition Jaguar XKR 75 at this year’s Goodwood Festival of Speed on July 2 in celebration of Jaguar’s 75th anniversary! Jaguar Cars Ltd.
Jaguar engineers increased the power and torque of the acclaimed 5.0-litre supercharged engine to 530PS and 655Nm respectively for the XKR 75, to deliver truly outstanding performance. While the limited edition model’s top speed is electronically limited to 174mph (280km/h), the XKR 75’s 0—60mph (100km/h) acceleration time is reduced from 4.6 to 4.4 seconds compared to the standard 510 PS XKR.
The Jaguar XKR 75 features revised suspension and handling for increased precision and agility in addition to the performance enhancements. To ensure the XKR 75 remains stable at high speeds, a revised aerodynamic body pack with a front splitter, side sills extensions, a rear diffuser and larger rear spoiler provide increased balance and a reduction in lift. The XKR’s computerised Active Differential Control also adjusts to reduce steering sensitivity at very high speeds, further improving stability and driver control.
In October, Jaguar will begin delivering cars to customers in the U.K., Germany, France, Italy, Belgium and the Netherlands.
Press Release
JAGUAR XKR 75 MAKES DEBUT AT GOODWOOD FESTIVAL OF SPEED
- XKR 75 to celebrate Jaguar's 75thanniversary
- Only 75 will be produced making it one of the most exclusive and exciting XKR's
- Higher performance than standard XKR - 0-60 seconds time of 4.4 seconds and a top speed of 174mph
- Power and torque increased to 530PS and 655Nm respectively
- Upgraded handling and suspension package for increased precision and agility
- Sports exhaust with improved acoustics to match performance
An exclusive XKR - the XKR 75 - will make its debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed on July 2.
Jaguar Land Rover's new CEO, Dr Ralf Speth, initiated the challenge to the Jaguar engineering team to construct an XKR to celebrate Jaguar's 75th anniversary, which would deliver a combination of enhanced performance, superb chassis and steering control and grip levels to inspire the driving enthusiast to explore the true potential of the XKR's capabilities.
Mike O'Driscoll, managing director, Jaguar Cars, said: "The XKR 75 will provide owners with exclusivity, excitement and a hint of Jaguar's great heritage. This is a fitting way to celebrate the sporting credentials of the XK marque in the 75th year of the Jaguar name," he continued.
Jaguar engineers increased the power and torque of the acclaimed 5.0-litre supercharged engine to 530PS and 655Nm respectively for the XKR 75, to deliver truly outstanding performance. While the limited edition model's top speed is electronically limited to 174mph (280km/h), the XKR 75's 0-60mph (100km/h) acceleration time is reduced from 4.6 to 4.4 seconds compared to the standard 510 PS XKR.
Using the rigid lightweight aluminium architecture of the XK as a solid foundation, theincreased power of the XKR 75 is matched by an agile, dynamic chassis that handles supremely, rides exceptionally well and stops with surefooted reassurance time after time.
The Jaguar XKR 75 features revised suspension and handling for increased precision and agility in addition to the performance enhancements. To ensure the XKR 75 remains stable at high speeds, a revised aerodynamic body pack with a front splitter, side sills extensions, a rear diffuser and larger rear spoiler provide increased balance and a reduction in lift.The XKR's computerised Active Differential Control also adjusts to reduce steering sensitivity at very high speeds, further improving stability and driver control.
And with an improved acoustics package for the semi-active sports exhaust, the XKR 75 produces a pulse-racing growl to match its performance.
The car's driver-focussed character, however, has not been achieved at the expense of the Jaguar traditional values of refinement and comfort.
"We conceived the XR 75 as a sports car with a duality of character that makes it perfectly suited to driving across Europe to the Nurburgring, completing some very fast laps, and then driving home again, added Mike Cross, Chief Engineer Vehicle Integrity.
The XKR 75 features a new Stratus Grey finish. Red brake callipers contrast the eye-catching 20-inch gloss Vortex forged lightweight alloys with a dark technical finish and diamond turn. Customers will have the option to apply a unique body graphic that runs from the front bumper to the rear haunches.
The XKR 75's interior completes the driver-focussed performance environment finished in Charcoal with ivory stitch, piano black finish to facia and centre console and a Jet suedecloth headlining.
THE XKR 75 AT A GLANCE
The unique features of the exclusive new XKR 75 include:
- Increased performance through detailed engine and transmission recalibration
- Power increased to 530PS (compared to 510 PS on XKR)
- Torque increased to 655Nm (compared to 625Nm on XKR)
- Upgraded torque converter to handle the increased torque
- Upgraded suspension systems for increased precision and agility
- Increased spring and damper rates (front springs 28 per cent stiffer, rear springs 32 per cent stiffer)
- New fully-machined aluminium front and revised rear suspension upright for increased camber stiffness (increased by 25 per cent)
- Re-tuned Adaptive Dynamics damper control software
- Reduced ride height (15mm front and 10mm rear)
- Aerodynamic body pack with body coloured finish to front splitter, side sills extensions and rear diffuser, and body coloured larger rear spoiler and rear trunk lid finisher
- Sports exhaust with improved performance and acoustics - system has new crossover pipe and larger exhaust outlets
- New Stratus Grey exterior paint with optional graphics pack
- Red brake callipers and 20" Vortex forged lightweight alloy wheels, diamond turned with dark grey finish
- XKR performance interior in Charcoal and Ivory stitch leather, with Jet suedecloth headlining and XKR 75 tread plate
- Active front lighting
- Final calibration was done in partnership with the RSR engineering team which has been collaborating with Jaguar on the 2010 motorsport programme.
Production of the XKR 75 will be limited to just 75 vehicles, which will be available to order from July 2010 in the UK priced from £85,500 OTR. Customer deliveries will commence during October.
Labels: European, Jaguar, Special Editions, Teasers
Saturday, April 3, 2010

Nissan also released today the first 2012 Nissan Quest teaser image and announced the new version will go on sale early in 2011.
Based on the Japanese-market El Grand van, the Quest will likely be powered by a 3.7-liter VQ V6 engine with up to 300 hp (224 kW / 304 PS) according to InsideLine. Front-wheel drive will be standard, but there are rumors all-wheel drive may be offered as an option.
This will be the first time the Quest isn't built in America, as production has switched to Nissan's Shatai plant in Japan where the fourth-generation El Grand is already being produced. Power will come from the same 3.7-liter VQ V6 that powers nearly every other Nissan, with output in the 300 horsepower range. Front-wheel drive will be standard, and we are hearing rumors of an all-wheel-drive option.
The redesigned Quest will go on sale in the United States early next year.
Press Release
The next-generation Nissan Quest presents a new paradigm in family mobility.
Along with top levels of quality and reliability, the all-new design is a fusion of sophistication, security and thoughtful utility for both families and empty-nesters alike.
The new Quest, which will be available in early 2011, is the perfect vehicle for buyers needing the size, safety, functionality and comfort that a minivan has to offer, without sacrificing style or driving pleasure.
Wednesday, February 17, 2010

The new electric concept vehicle of Valmet Automotive gets its world premiere at the Geneva Motor Show on March 2-14th. "Eva" represents the company's latest know-how in new ecological vehicle technologies.
The concept vehicle is a 2+2 seat electric city car with a range of up to 160 km per one charge. In engineering the vehicle, lightweight and safe body structures have been combined with innovative electric and recharging systems.
Fortum, a leading energy company focusing on the Nordic countries, Russia and the Baltic Rim area, brought to the project its extensive know-how in recharging systems. Thanks to the cooperation with Nokia, the car is equipped with a pioneering Human Machine Interface through mobile handset connectivity. The booth will also showcase a demo based on NAVTEQ's high-quality map data and content which enables green routing and driving functionality use cases.

Valmet Automotive is a forerunner in engineering and manufacturing electric vehicles. Already last year the company started the series production of one of the world's first urban electric vehicle, the THINK City, as well as the luxury Golf Car Garia. Valmet Automotive is also an engineering and manufacturing partner of the world's first premium plug-in hybrid electric vehicle Fisker Karma. The production of the Karma will start later this year.
The manufacturing of Porsche Boxster and Porsche Cayman represents Valmet Automotive's experience and recognized know-how in the production of premium vehicles.
In line with its new strategy, Valmet Automotive today offers to its automotive customers a large portfolio of services from product and process engineering up to series manufacturing and business services.
Photos:zercustoms
Labels: concept car, Electric Vehicle, European, Geneva Motor Show, Industry, Teasers
Saturday, February 13, 2010

KEY POINTS
* World-first appearance of the Lexus CT 200h
* First and only full hybrid model in the premium compact segment
* New gateway model to progressive luxury and the Lexus brand
Six months after revealing the LF-Ch concept, Lexus is set to unveil its new CT 200h model at the Geneva motor show.

Created for motorists who want to lower their emissions, but not their standards, the CT 200h will be the first full hybrid vehicle in the premium compact segment. It will offer new levels of refinement, sophistication and attention to detail, without compromising style or driving pleasure.

Equipped with second-generation Lexus Hybrid Drive technology, the CT 200h reinforces Lexus's hybrid power leadership in the premium market, joining the established RX 450h, GS 450h and LS 600h models to create an unprecedented range of full hybrid vehicles.

The critically acclaimed Lexus LFA supercar will also be on show at Geneva, just ahead of the initial order period for the model coming to a close.
Andy Pfeiffenberger, Vice President Lexus Europe, will host a press conference on Stand 4211 in Hall 4 at 4.45pm on 2 March.
More Photos
Labels: Geneva Motor Show, Hybrid, Japanese, Lexus, Teasers
Monday, February 1, 2010
Audi A1: The key is individuality
* The interior of the A1 offers an extraordinary range of creative options
* An intricate process: the new design of the air vents in the cockpit
Ingolstadt, February 1, 2010 - When a new car is introduced, everyone naturally wants to know what it looks like. The shape, the proportions, the color - especially when it comes to the exterior. But the interior also offers a lot of exciting details. With the Audi A1, the people who designed the interior concentrated on creating as many customizable elements as possible. One particularly distinctive example is the new design of the air vents in the control panel - which are constantly in the driver's field of vision.

"We imagined the control panel in the cockpit to be like an airplane wing with turbines," said Ivo van Hulten, interior designer of the new Audi A1, as he described the design process. "Naturally, we're building a car and not an airplane, but the first sketches of the air vents were created with this idea in our heads. And even at this early stage we were thinking about colors and materials. Our goal was to allow A1 drivers to be able to design the air vents according to their personal taste."

Detailed sketches are crucial, as the concept must be presented to the design team. Only then can the next steps begin. Based on the drawings and virtual data, precise models are made out of clay. These often show small details, but they can also represent entire components in the interior or even the car itself.

"We reconstructed the control panel from clay and then fitted an aluminum component in the shape of the air vent into the clay. By repositioning it and modifying the size, we were able to specify the precise position," van Hulten said. "The process is
highly complex, and the A1 includes many such details. We were only satisfied when everything was perfectly harmonized."

Along with the roof arch, which can be ordered in various colors, the interior of the A1 offers an especially wide range of elements whose color and material can be customized according to personal tastes.

More Photos