Amazing car photos

2012 Porsche 911 Carrera

2011-09-24T03:19:00.001-07:00

Setting the standard in its class, as it has for generations, the new 911 Carrera and 911 Carrera S raise the performance and efficiency bar yet another notch. All versions get by with significantly less than 10 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers (official U.S. EPA fuel mileage estimates are TBD) and fuel consumption and emissions are up to 16 percent lower in the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC) when compared with the predecessor. This is achieved through systems such as the Automatic

The 100 mm or 3.9 inch longer wheelbase and reduced overall height underpin the fresh, athletic yet elegant appearance. When viewed from the front, the eye is drawn to the 911′s trademark wide-arched fenders, emphasizing the wider front track. The side mirrors are now mounted on the upper edge of the door, which also helps highlight the new design line and gives the visual impression of width.
The new lightweight body is an aluminum-steel composite construction and contributes greatly to the 45 kg or about 100 lbs weight reduction when compared to the previous 911 body. When combined with the greater structural rigidity and optimized aerodynamics – including a wider, variably extending rear spoiler – the new 911 Carrera’s front and rear lift has been reduced to near zero while retaining the Cd value of 0.29.

To complement the modern exterior design, Porsche designers created an interior reminiscent of the Carrera GT. The driver is now even more closely integrated within the cockpit thanks to the rising center console and high-mounted shift lever or gear selector located close to the steering wheel. As with the exterior, classic Porsche elements abound inside. Present is the instrument cluster with five round gauges – one of them a high resolution multifunction screen, and of course the central tachometer and the ignition lock to the left of the steering wheel.

Start Stop function, engine and transmission thermal management, electrical system recuperation, the world’s first seven-speed manual transmission and – in conjunction with the Porsche Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK) – the ability to ‘sail’ or coast. The new electro-mechanical power steering offers not only Porsche’s typical precision and feedback but also helps increase efficiency and reduce fuel-consumption.
For example, the 911 Carrera with the new 350 hp, 3.4-liter boxer engine and optional PDK consumes 8.2 l/100 km based on the NEDC – 1.6 l/100 km less than its predecessor.
The 911 Carrera S with its 400 hp, 3.8-liter boxer engine – 15 hp more than before – achieves 8.7 l/100 km in the NEDC when paired with the optional PDK transmission. This represents a fuel consumption decrease of 14 percent or 1.5 l/100 km.
At the same time there are performance improvements in both models. The 911 Carrera S with PDK accelerates from 0 to 60 in 4.1 seconds. Using the Launch Control function of the optional Sport Chrono Package cuts that to 3.9 seconds. The 911 Carrera with PDK needs only 4.4 seconds to sprint from a standing start to 60 mph (4.2 seconds when using the optional Sport Chrono Package’s Launch Control function). Top-track speed for the 911 Carrera S and 911 Carrera is 188 mph and 179 mph, respectively.
The new 911 offers both better longitudinal dynamics and unprecedented top performance in terms of transverse dynamics. In addition to the longer wheelbase, the greater agility, precision and driving stability are based, among other things, on the wider front track, the new rear axle and new electro-mechanical power steering. Depending on the model, there are other standard or optional active control systems available that can help further enhance the overall driving dynamics. That is especially true for the Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC) active roll stabilization system, available for the first time on the 911 Carrera S. The system helps reduce lateral roll when cornering and helps keep the tires in the optimal position relative to the road surface.
The new 911 further extends the span of seemingly contradictory attributes such as performance and efficiency, sportiness and every day practicality that have always typified the Porsche 911. That makes the 911 Carrera more of a 911 than ever. The new Porsche 911 Carrera celebrates its world premiere at the 2011 IAA Frankfurt Motor Show in September.
The first new 911 models will arrive in U.S. dealerships beginning in February of 2012. The new 911 Carrera Coupe will have a base MSRP of $82,100, while the 911 Carrera S Coupe’s base MSRP will be $96,400 (excluding destination). Both models will include substantial additional equipment when compared to the previous models.

Ypsilon Diamond

2011-09-24T03:17:00.000-07:00

Lancia Ypsilon Diamond represents the ultimate in luxury, typified by prestigious interior materials and a refined body finish created by a unique paint treatment and finish. The Diamond is no mere exercise in styling but a genuine experiment by Lancia to identify luxury content for a possible production model.

The Diamond’s colour scheme features Lancia’s new “eco-chrome” finish, which achieves a chrome effect by means of a special paint rather than by conventional chrome plating. Tinged with a warm, “white gold” nuance, this unique new eco-chrome finish has been applied to various parts of the body, including the sun roof, mirror covers, grille, headlight surrounds, pillar and tailgate logos, door handles, bonnet, spoiler, exhaust terminal and alloy wheels. The rest of the body is finished in an elegant soft-touch effect colour called “Chiffon White”.

The team at the Lancia Style Centre has paid special attention to the Ypsilon Diamond’s refined colour scheme. After all, colour has never been simply a matter of aesthetics for the Ypsilon. On the contrary, it is an integral part of a product philosophy based on elegance, glamour, personality, play, creativity, style and the widest array of customisation options.
The Ypsilon Diamond’s fascinating and original exterior finish is backed up by an interior that achieves a perfect blend of elegance and refinement. The upholstery is characterised by Lancia’s trademark attention to detail and by the use of superior quality materials, from luxurious, bronze-black galuchat hide on the central sections of the seats and on the head rests with the Ypsilon logo, to glittering, soft, embossed nabuk hide on the seat sides, dashboard and door panels.

This two-tone theme extends to the rest of the interior too. The roof is covered in a light Alcantara fabric that matches the paint finish of the door pillars and sun visors, while the bottom section of the dashboard is finished in a contrasting dark shade. The steering wheel, instrument cowl, and handbrake and gear lever boots are in sumptuous black leather. The connotation of sartorial craftsmanship is reinforced by double stitching and embroidering in both contrasting and matching colours.

Finally, in perfect harmony with the outside of the car, the special eco-chrome finish reoccurs inside on the air vent surrounds, glove compartment handle, door handles, steering wheel spokes and gear lever surround. The gear lever is made even more exclusive by a crystal effect, methacrylate gear lever knob made to look like a gem stone, reminding occupants of the name of this Lancia show-car.

The Audi Urban Concept

2011-09-24T03:12:00.000-07:00

Audi is once again opening up new horizons: the Audi urban concept is a 1+1-seat, ultra-light car for congested urban spaces. The technical study being presented at the International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt does not fit under any of the conventional categories – the Audi urban concept combines elements of a racing car, a fun car and an urban car into one radical new concept. In addition to a Sportback model, Audi is also presenting a Spyder variant.

The Audi urban concept is not based on any previous model – its development is solely oriented on the strict principles of lightweight construction, efficiency and reduction. The result is a concept car with no unnecessary weight, and one that concentrates on the pure essence of sporty motion.

The Audi urban concept has a sleek body. The wheels are free-standing, their surrounding protective plates feature blinking strips of LED lights. The highly concentrated look of the technical study, with its forward-urging lines, is dynamic and emotional – it lends Audi’s design language a completely new impetus.

On board there is room for two people, their position slightly staggered and at a sporty, low level. All controls and materials are subject t
o the dictates of ultra-lightweight construction in order to ensure that the sensory experience they convey is unique and compelling. The driver can adjust the steering wheel and pedals to his own body measurements. Characteristic features of the Spyder include its low, continuous window area and its doors that open diagonally to the top.

The technology in the Audi urban concept reflects the full capabilities of the brand, especially when it comes to ultra-lightweight construction. The cockpit consists of carbon fiber-reinforced polymer, which integrates the undercarriage of both seats. The Audi urban concept rolls on wheels with a 21-inch diameter.

Two e-tron electric motors provide the propulsion – providing the ultra-light Audi urban concept with the ability to accelerate powerfully. A lithium-ion battery supplies the energy – ideal for extended city tours.

Audi A2

2011-09-21T09:03:00.000-07:00

With the electric-only powertrain of the A2 concept, Audi is offering another peek into the future of electric mobility at the 64th International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt. The technical study features a classic, premium-standard space concept that offers plenty of room for four people.

The Audi A2 concept is just 3.80 meters (12.47 ft) long, 1.69 meters (5.54 ft) wide and 1.49 meters (4.89 ft) high; even so, it makes an elegant, powerful and sporty impression on the street. Its clean appearance concentrates on the essentials; all details are subtle but shaped for visual impact. The dark glass roof of the white-painted show car switches to transparency with the push of a button.

With its headlights, Audi is presenting the next phase in LED technology, known as matrix beam. A package of LEDs and microreflectors generate a high-resolution and non-glaring high-beam light. Delicate daytime running light fibers frame the highly efficient LED low-beam light module. Intelligent tail lights adapt their illumination to the visibility conditions. The rear fog light, produced by laser diodes, is seen as a beam of light in fog and projects a red triangle onto the road as a warning.
Audi A2 gallery photos:

Land Rover Defender

2011-09-21T08:58:00.000-07:00

Two modern interpretations of the iconic Land Rover will make their debut at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show. Both concepts capture the adventurous, daring, and indomitable spirit of Land Rover. This spirit came to fruition in 1948 with the launch of the Land Rover Series 1, which swiftly earned a global reputation for capability and created the legend surrounding the Land Rover name.
Replacing an automotive icon is a tremendous challenge. These two concepts explore design possibilities that take the honest character and timeless simplicity of the Defender into the 21st Century.

Design
As the names of the DC100 and DC100 Sport concepts suggest, their inspiration stems from iconic Land Rover models, and are intended to generate discussion about the future of one of the most recognized automotive designs in the world.
The shape and stance of the DC100 concept captures the inherent simplicity and confidence of the original Land Rover. The DC100 design undeniably demonstrates that it has the capability to embark on journeys to places few other vehicles dare tread.
The DC100 Sport captures the adventurous, into-the-wild ethos typified by the early Defender models. With canvas roofs and fold-down windshields, these vehicles allowed a total connection with the exciting landscapes they traversed. Reinterpreted for a new generation of adventurers, DC100 Sport features a streamlined, cut-down windshield and side windows

Interior
Both concepts feature three across front seating for increased versatility. The middle seat lifts to reveal a secure stowage area, while the outboard passenger seat can be folded away to increase carrying capacity.
Both interiors feature rugged, durable and sustainable modern materials that offer comfort levels undreamt of by early Land Rover owners. Those chosen for the DC100 are the latest in high-tech, tough, fabrics that will survive a lifetime of the roughest treatment. In the DC100 Sport, the materials are more luxurious, featuring leather with a subtle Tribal Tech pattern, referencing a legacy of exploration.

Technology
The concepts are based on an advanced mixed-alloy platform, and represent the flexibility of design and use inherent in this very capable platform. An eight-speed transmission and a transfer case provide a wide spread of high and low ratios for on and off-road driving.
Also showcased is the next generation of Land Rover all-terrain technology. Building on the acclaimed Terrain Response® system, these systems work seamlessly together to reduce the workload on the driver by identifying potential hazards and advising safer routes to avoid them. An advanced telematics program unites the systems and allows vehicle to smartphone communication.
Design
Land Rover has a design integrity that stretches back more than 60 years. Reinventing and reinvigorating that design ethos is a challenge that has been met – in two very different ways. Each concept represents different points on the Land Rover spectrum.
Simplicity and Strength
The bodywork reflects the Land Rover practice of avoiding extraneous detailing by following the principle of form derived from function, leading to a purposeful simplicity of surface. The sharply defined shoulder line and near vertical panels of the concepts places all four corners within sight of the driver, to create a confidence-inspiring Command Driving position that is a Land Rover hallmark.
Compact dimensions, short overhangs, and 22-inch alloy wheels lend both all-terrain concepts a fittingly purposeful, foursquare stance. Further detailing – such as the triangular vent in the front fenders, hood edges set into the shoulder line, and a prominent handle set into the trailing edge of the doors – also reference Land Rover tradition.
Authentic Design
Few vehicles in this world inspire feelings of loyalty and affection as a Land Rover Defender. Crucial to that appeal is the front-end design. The DC100 Sport and DC100 represent the latest evolution of the Defender ‘face’ that has retained its timeless appeal for 60 years.
The key elements were a sense of openness and honesty. As a vehicle used in the most extreme conditions, a Land Rover must also exude rugged dependability. This is seen to greatest effect in DC100 with its signature twin round headlamps and purposeful grille. DC100 Sport represents a more assertive, performance-oriented interpretation with a steeply raked front end.
DC100
The radically different design treatments demonstrate the modularity and flexibility of the platform. The shape of DC100 is instantly recognizable. Like the original Land Rover and the Defender that followed it, it looks equally at home alongside an English village green as traversing an Icelandic lava field.
As a dependable all-terrain workhorse, DC100 firmly emphasizes the practical side of Land Rover. An upright windscreen provides excellent visibility on and off-road while an interchangeable rear cover allows for either maximum cargo capacity or transporting additional passengers. A winch, which is capable of supporting the weight of the vehicle, is neatly integrated into the front grille. Towing eyes have been built into each corner.
The roof is equipped with solar panels to supplement power for on-board systems, reducing the load on the engine and lowering emissions. The exterior is painted in soft metallic silver specifically intended to reflect the sun’s rays, keeping the interior cool in hot climates and reducing the demands on the climate-control system. Land Rover is also researching future paint technologies that would create both self-cleaning and self-healing bodywork.
DC100 Sport
With DC100 Sport, Land Rover has created a concept that occupies its own territory. It takes its cue from the early canvas-roofed Defender with a fold-down windshield that typifies the Land Rover spirit of adventure and exploration.
Reimagined as a performance concept for the 21st century, it features a wraparound aero screen and cut-down side windows for exhilarating open-air motoring. Flowing back from the seats is a twin-humped fastback roofline, which encloses a generous load bed that includes fittings designed to secure sports equipment and adventure gear.
The DC100 Sport is finished with a metallic amber paint that echoes the vibrant ochre hues found in Africa.
Interior
Functionality and usability are two key characteristics of Land Rover interiors – the position and logic of every control should be obvious the moment the driver enters. The form and function of the concepts are visually integrated in the interior layout. The door structure flows into the cabin and flows into an elegant beam running the width of the dash. The concepts recreate the three-across seating layout seen in the Defender.
Three Across Seating
This seating arrangement extends its versatility and creates a social setting within the vehicle. The passenger seat can be folded out of the way to increase carrying capacity. The middle seat conceals a large secure storage area. In front of the middle seat is a machined aluminum tray that contains induction charging technology to power electronic devices.
This innovative layout is particularly space-efficient, allowing for integrated storage areas both above and below the central beam, and for the gearlever to be mounted on the center console. This reduces the time the driver’s hand is away from the wheel while changing gears, increasing control during off-road or high-speed driving.
Multifunctional Removable Touch screen
Like early Land Rover models, the DC100 concepts have a centrally positioned instrument cluster mounted above the gearlever. Combining the informatics functions of an instrument panel with an intuitive touch screen interface, the unit is backed by powerful telematics technology that co-ordinates the groundbreaking technologies to be found in these concepts.
All of the concepts’ functions can be controlled via this interface, using a combination of swipe and press gestures on the touch screen. The steering wheel includes four shortcut keys that reconfigure the touch screen to control functions such as navigation, audio and climate.
The control unit is removable from the dashboard to extend its functionality. Finished in shock and water-resistant silicon and equipped with its own power source, camera, and satellite connectivity, this allows it to be used as a portable navigation tool with an internal hard drive that can record waypoints, HD video footage and stills images.
Sustainable Materials
The cabins of both concepts are finished with materials possessing rugged and durable qualities. All these have been chosen for their sustainability both in terms of composition and in terms of manufacture. For example, the seat foam is derived from castor oil, and semi-structural panels and sound insulating boards are made from flax and natural polymers.
Premium Performance
Taking its cue from technical sportswear, DC100 uses the latest generation of performance materials to create an interior of premium quality that is adaptable and hardwearing. The beam running the width of the cabin, door panels and seat bolsters are trimmed in Obsidian Grey and Carbon Black Ultrafabrics®, a technical cloth found on designer furniture and super yachts. Ultrafabrics® is not only antimicrobial, water-repellent, breathable and resistant to solar aging, it is also PVC-free, low in volatile organic compounds and lightweight.
Complementing this is SuperFabric®, an almost indestructible textile with a premium feel. Normally found in protective clothing for extreme environments – including spacesuits – DC100 uses it on the seat cushions and to line the footwells and rear load space.
Aluminum is also used extensively in the vehicles. Trim material – such as the drains in the fully washable rear load bed – are made of recycled metal.
Traditional Toughness
DC100 Sport achieves the same singularity of purpose with a mixture of modern and traditional materials. The seats are trimmed in the original protective material; leather, with a lightweight, breathable mesh insert in a bold “Tribal Tech” pattern. The leather is sourced from Bridge of Weir, a Scottish company with impeccable environmental credentials. The hide is covered with a 3D-textured mesh that alternately reveals and hides the Tribal Tech pattern.
The Tribal Tech pattern is repeated on the floor of DC100 Sport where floor mats are made of Ombrae™, a sculptural medium used in art installations and modern architecture. This dynamic 3D material changes its appearance through the use of light and shadow, depending on the viewing angle. The same design is also echoed in the hand-patterned Pirelli® tires.
Adaptable Interior
The concepts’ outward modularity is repeated in the interior where the door canisters can be configured with options ranging from portable barbecue sets to field first-aid kits.
The rear compartment features fully configurable load spaces. Down the center of each is an aluminum inductive power strip, which powers a removable compartment that can be chilled or heated– perfect for picnics on the beach or hot drinks on the slopes.
The inductive power strip can be used to charge a range of power tools on the move, with supplementary equipment carried in flanking containers. A further charging area to one side is used for charging a portable speaker system, from audio specialists Meridian, that wirelessly streams music from the vehicle to the speaker This feature can be also be used to charge communications equipment or laptops.
Technology and Capability
These two concepts showcase the next generation of technologies that will extend Land Rover’s reputation for legendary all-terrain prowess and 365 day-a-year usability.
21st Century Capabilities
As with any Land Rover, both DC100 designs have towing and load-carrying capabilities that exceed expectations but use two different and well-proven Land Rover suspension systems specifically tailored to their distinct performance parameters.
DC100 uses an air suspension system that allows ride height to be altered by up to 12.6 inches for extreme approach and departure angles, axle articulation and ground clearance. The performance suspension in the DC100 Sport uses the third-generation MagneRide™ adjustable suspension for sporting on-road handling with all-terrain capability.
Terrain Response
New off-road technologies will extend the capabilities of the Land Rover Terrain Response® system. These new technologies allow the system to automatically optimize the vehicle for any environment without driver selection. This system analyzes data from sensors that assess suspension travel, steering angle, wheel slip and braking and acceleration inputs. The vehicle will react continuously and unobtrusively by altering spring, damper, gearing and power delivery parameters.
The Terrain Response® on the DC100 concepts also features High-Definition cameras mounted on the front to analyze the ground ahead. This is then compared to images stored within a predictive neural network and allows the system to determine visually, for example, the difference between sand, grass, mud, gravel, snow and asphalt. The system will use this data to alter the off-road performance parameters.
Intelligent Terrain Mapping
Acting as an early-warning system is the state-of-the-art Terrain-i mapper that creates a virtual 3D visualization of the ground ahead, displayed on the central touch screen. Similar to systems used by fighter pilots, Terrain-i uses a headlamp-mounted scanner that runs complex algorithms to assess the route ahead and warn the driver of obstacles potentially too large to be safely negotiated.
Terrain-i will suggest alternatives, displaying a safer route on the screen. Cameras mounted on each corner also give the driver a 360-degree field of vision.
Terrain-i also plays a vital support role in crowded urban environments where the scanner system can identify pedestrians and obstacles. This can initially warn the driver and then attempt to stop the vehicle if action is not taken.
Wade Aid
Land Rover has developed a sonar-based system for assessing water depth that allows the driver to make informed decisions as to whether to proceed into flooded areas.
The system utilizes sensors mounted in the bumpers and side mirrors. These are able to measure depth and by working in conjunction with inclinometers recognize whether the level is increasing or decreasing. This information is displayed on the central touch screen.
The system will also automatically optimize the concept for water crossing by raising the ride height, closing body vents, selecting a lower gear to maintain engine revs and advising on the optimum speed for the depth of water, allowing a maximum wading depth of 29.5 inches.
Spiked Tires
Further allowing the concepts to adjust to changing conditions is a driver-deployable spiked tire system. This is operated by an electro-mechanical system mounted within the tire; activation of the technology permits air to inflate a secondary air chamber, filling pods moulded into the tread of the tire and which contain the spikes. The spikes rise just above the tread surface and fix into place for driving on packed snow and ice. When conditions have eased, the spikes can be retracted, obviating the need to carry two sets of tires or snow chains.
Telematics
Underpinning these systems is a telematics program that seamlessly integrates many vehicle functions and presents information to the driver in the clearest, most straightforward manner. The telematics systems allow communication between the vehicle and a smartphone or laptop, allowing the owner to check everything from the tire pressure to the cabin temperature and operate the climate control remotely.
In addition, the telematics system can store data from every one of the vehicle’s journeys and download them for comparison. For example, information from the Wade Aid system could chart changes in water depth, or data from the traction control could be used to assess the rate of terrain erosion.
The system also has full on-the-move connectivity via 3G and satellite and can deliver not just traffic alerts but also weather warnings for remoter areas.
Adventure Key
Land Rover prides itself on offering solutions to everyday as well as extraordinary situations. Having a key to carry can hamper athletic activities. Using RFID technology, the key can be embedded into impact or water resistant objects such as watches and wristbands. These allow the main key fob to be left in a slot in the glove box, which deactivates it and transfers its security functions to the rugged item containing the RFID chip. Once the vehicle is secured, only that specific RFID smart tag will allow access.
Future developments of the system will allow each family member their own smart tag, which would save their personal audio, climate, communication, and seating settings. This would also allow parents to restrict vehicle power and speed when their children use it. Third-generation smart tags could also include biometric data that could use facial recognition systems to increase security.
Park Assist
A Park Assist system can parallel park the vehicles with minimal inputs from the driver. Sensors scan the side of the road to select a suitably sized space. If the driver confirms the selection, the DC100 Sport can then reverse into the space, performing all the steering functions automatically while the driver retains control over the brakes and accelerator.
Drivetrain
Land Rover is actively researching the next generation of powertrains appropriate to the extreme uses and environmental challenges to which its vehicles are put. In association with research centers, suppliers, and universities, the company is looking at a wide range of options to reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.
Intelligent Engine Start/Stop
The two concepts are fitted with an eight-speed ZF® automatic transmission with Intelligent Start/Stop. Designed with future hybridization in mind, the gearbox utilizes a Twin Solenoid Starter system that offers considerable benefits over more conventional Start/Stop technologies such as the ability to restart the engine during its shutdown phase. The addition of a transfer case offers a wide spread of ratios, while steering wheel-mounted gear selection paddles afford manual gear control both on and off-road.
Powerful and Efficient Powertrains
Both concepts are powered by 2.0-liter four-cylinder engines. The go-anywhere DC100 is diesel-powered for maximum mud-bogging torque while the more performance-oriented DC100 Sport is gasoline-powered for a sportier drive. Both engines are capable of being configured as parallel or plug-in hybrids.
Torque Vectoring
A new electronic torque vectoring system maximizes the stability, traction and handling on any surface. As opposed to purely mechanical differentials, electronic torque vectoring can channel specific amounts of power to each individual wheel. For on-road driving, this allows a sportier and safer drive, with the torque vectoring acting to enhance vehicle performance and stability. During off-road driving, torque vectoring confers even greater benefits, being able to infinitely and instantaneously send torque to whichever combination of the four wheels has the most grip.
Driveline Disconnect
Driveline Disconnect can reduce frictional losses by disconnecting the rear axle unless conditions dictate that four-wheel drive is required. Unlike conventional switchable four-wheel drive, which reroutes engine power electronically, the Land Rover system physically decouples the rear propshaft from the center differential for greater efficiency benefits. The system can swiftly recouple and send drive to the rear wheels when it detects a loss of traction.

amazing art cars

2011-09-16T01:37:00.001-07:00

2011-09-15T01:54:00.000-07:00

batman car

2011-09-12T02:38:00.000-07:00

funny car parking

2011-09-11T07:38:00.000-07:00

2010 Rolls Royce Ghost

2011-09-10T07:42:00.001-07:00

drag bikes

2011-09-04T01:04:00.000-07:00

flying car

2011-09-01T06:38:00.000-07:00

Is it a car? Is it a plane? Actually, it’s both. The first flying car, equally at home in the sky or on the road, is scheduled to take to the air next month.
If it survives its first test flight, the Terrafugia Transition, which can transform itself from a two-seater car to a plane in 15 seconds, is expected to land in showrooms in about 18 months’ time.
Its manufacturer says it is easy to keep and run since it uses normal unleaded fuel and will fit in a garage.
Carl Dietrich, who runs the Massachusetts-based Terrafugia, said: “This is the first really integrated design where the wings fold up automatically and all the parts are in one vehicle.”
The Transition, developed by former NASA engineers, is powered by the same 100 bhp engine on the ground and in the air.
Terrafugia claims it will be able to fly up to 500 miles on a single tank of gas at a cruising speed of 115 mph. Up to now, however, it has only been tested on roads at up to 90 mph.
Click here to read more on this story from the Sunday Times of London.

drag cars

2011-08-29T08:06:00.000-07:00

Amazing shots of Classic Cars

2011-08-28T01:32:00.000-07:00

Vintage Cars

infiniti jx

2011-08-27T04:37:00.000-07:00

The Infiniti JX Concept, a preview of an innovative new 7-passenger/3-row luxury crossover that joins the Infiniti lineup in spring 2012, made its world debut last evening at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance.

Beyond its stunning exterior, the new Infiniti JX Concept is designed to excel in three areas where luxury crossover buyers put an emphasis – interior flexibility and roominess, safety, and innovative hospitality features.
In the interior, for example, the production Infiniti JX will offer what is expected to be class-leading roominess, along with a 2nd row seat design that tilts and slides forward providing exceptionally easy 3rd row access.

The Infiniti JX continues Infiniti’s tradition of developing world’s first technologies, offering the currently available Blind Spot Intervention and adding a new feature, Backup Collision Intervention. With this technology, when the transmission is in reverse, the JX will help the driver detect crossing objects behind the vehicle and, if necessary, the system will automatically engage the brakes to help avoid a collision.

The Infiniti JX will also offer technologies designed to make owners lives a bit easier and more efficient, such as a 14-speaker Bose® Studio Surround® sound system with Waveguide bass technology and an advanced Infiniti Connection Telematics system that can automatically synch the owner’s calendar and provide navigation guidance to appointments. It will also feature the Infiniti Personal Assistant, Infiniti’s new personal concierge service with 24-hour access to a live team of professional assistants. The Infiniti Personal Assistant benefit is now offered free-of-charge with every 2012 Infiniti vehicle purchase.

And, in keeping with Infiniti’s “Inspired Performance,” the Infiniti JX will offer a balance of driving exhilaration and fuel efficiency through a combination of a powerful V6 engine and all-wheel or front-wheel drive. The Infiniti JX will also be the first Infiniti to utilize a sport-tuned, but fuel-efficient continuously variable transmission. The CVT will mimic a step transmission when the Sport mode of the Infiniti drive selector is engaged. Additional information regarding the drivetrain and other systems will be provided at the debut of the production version of the all-new Infiniti JX at the Los Angeles Auto Show in November 2011.
In addition, in conjunction with the global reveal of the Infiniti JX, Infiniti is launching the JX Concept “Power of 7″ Challenge on Facebook. The challenge invites fans to submit inspiring creations relating to seven Infiniti JX categories: Epicurean, Art & Fashion, Film, Interior Design, Music, Athletics and Technology & Science. The community will vote on the submissions, and winners in each category will receive a cash prize and compete to win trip to 2011 Los Angeles Auto Show. More information, including official rules, is available at

Etios Effect: The 2011 Tata Manza gets a spruce up!

2011-08-14T21:08:00.000-07:00


2011 Tata Manza

The Toyota Etios sure has ruffled some feathers with it’s very strong showing with over 10,000 bookings in under a month of it’s launch. The Tata Manza was and is a terrific VFM option for folks wanting class leading comfort and cabin space. Add to that an above average build quality, that is most un-Tata like and throw in a couple of good engines, both in petrol and diesel courtesy Fiat, you have a car that is poised to be a good seller. That is what the Manza has been all along for Tata Motors, a good seller.

2011 Tata Manza

Now, as competition hots up with the Toyota Etios in the fray, Tata has decided to keep the buzz around the Manza going by giving the Manza a mid career spruce up. Now, the interiors see a dual tone Burgundy-Beige combination with newer fabric for the seats while soft touch plastics will make living in the Manza a pleasant affair as time rolls by. On the outside, keeping in line with Indians’ fetish for chrome some more chrome abounds on the bottom weather strip and the fog lamp linings. Alloy wheels and a host of other features like the 2 DIN music system with the Blue 5 bluetooth system, rear demister, drivers seat adjustable for height and lumbar support make it to the top the line Manza Elan variant.

2011 Tata Manza

Safety too is accorded top priority with ABS, airbags, multistage drive away auto locking, collapsible steering, energy absorbing steering wheel and door intrusion beam rounding off the impressive list of safety features. On the Manza Elan variant, you will be further pampered with “follow me home headlamps” which essentially is Tata speak for headlamps that stay on for one minute once you get out of the car so that you can make your way out of your parking area. Another thoughtful feature is the “delayed power window” system wherein a power window can be rolled up with one touch of the power window button even when the key is removed from the ignition console. The Manza Elan also gets an exclusive color called Tyrian wine.

2011 Tata Manza

So, features wise, the 2011 Tata Manza definitely feel premium and this obviously will be an important factor for folks who find the Toyota Etios Sedan and the Maruti Suzuki Dzire to be too under speced for their liking. The biggest thing that seals the deal for a 2011 Manza buyer will be the presence of the 90 Bhp Fiat Quadrajet diesel engine as this is one thing that the Etios currently misses out on, big time. The 2011 Tata Manza is priced very competitively at ex-showroom(Delhi) prices which start from INR 5.14 Lakhs and INR 5.96 Lakhs for the Safire petrol and Quadrajet diesel variants respectively. In a nutshell, that is pretty much everything important about the 2011 Tata Manza.

2011 Tata Manza

fast furious 5

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fast furious 2

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Wallpapers - Ford Mustang (2010)

2011-08-13T22:06:00.000-07:00

Wallpapers - Ford Mustang (2010)

fast furious 1

2011-08-13T22:05:00.000-07:00

1967 gto

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car wallpaper for pc

2011-08-09T08:20:00.000-07:00

world best cars

2011-08-05T08:51:00.000-07:00

Hummer cars

2011-07-26T03:42:00.000-07:00

Hummer was a brand of trucks and SUVs, first marketed in 1992 when AM General began selling a civilian version of the M998 Humvee. In 1998, General Motors (GM) purchased the brand name and marketed three vehicles: the original Hummer H1, based on the Humvee; and the H2 and H3 models that were based on smaller, civilian-market GM platforms.

By 2008, Hummer's viability in the economic downturn was being questioned, and it was placed under review by GM management. Rather than being transferred to Motors Liquidation Company as part of the GM bankruptcy in 2009, the brand was retained by GM, in order to investigate its sale.

In 2009, a Chinese manufacturer, Sichuan Tengzhong Heavy Industrial Machinery Company, announced that it would acquire Hummer, pending government approvals, but later withdrew its bid. On February 24, 2010, Reuters reported that the Chinese ministry of commerce had prevented the deal, although a ministry spokesperson denied rejecting the application, which had been stalled for eight months. At the end of February, General Motors announced it would begin dismantling the Hummer brand.

Although the automaker announced two days later that it had been approached with new offers, by April 2010, any sale became unlikely, as inventory was depleted and Hummer dealerships began shutting down. After filling a rental-car fleet order, the last Hummer H3 rolled off line at Shreveport on May 24, 2010.

Origin

The original Hummers were first designed and built by AM General Corporation, which was formerly AMC-Jeep's General Products division,[8] in its Mishawaka, Indiana, assembly plant. The vehicles were created under a contract for the United States armed forces. The first model, the Humvee, was built in a variety of military-based equipment and versions. The US$1.2 billion contract won by AM General in 1983 was to produce 55,000 Humvees by 1985, which was later increased to 15,000 additional units.

AM General had planned to sell a civilian version of the Humvee as far back as the late 1980s. Having the same structure and most mechanical components, the civilian Hummers were finished in automotive gloss paint, adding passenger car enhancements such as air conditioning, sound insulation, upgraded upholstery, stereo systems, wood trim, and convenience packages.[10] The civilian model began in part because of the persistence of Arnold Schwarzenegger, who saw an Army convoy while filming a movie.

In 1990, two matching white Humvees were driven from London to Beijing over the rough roads of central Soviet Union. The Hummers made the trip with ease, for they were built to drive on off-road terrain. The highlights of this journey were broadcast in the United States on ESPN. This publicity would pale in comparison to the attention that the Humvee received for its service in Gulf War Operation: Desert Storm, the following year. Also, a privately-owned Humvee was modified into the first Snow-Vee, including the addition of caterpillar tracks, a new rear compartment and a new engine. This vehicle was designed for use in and just below the Arctic Circle, and the Antarctic.

In 1992, AM General began selling a civilian version of the M998 Humvee vehicle to the public under the brand name "Hummer".

2011-07-25T02:22:00.000-07:00

Lamborghini (the manufacturer of extreme Italian super sports cars) and Blancpain (the world’s oldest luxury watchmaker) are uniting their phenomenal engineering skill and honoring the huge success of the Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo racing series with a very special super sports car: the new Lamborghini Gallardo LP 570-4 Blancpain Edition.

The super sports car from Sant’Agata Bolognese boasts a dry weight of no more than 1340 kilograms (2954 lb) – the lightest road-going model in Lamborghini’s range.

Blancpain has been producing innovative masterpieces of watch-making art in Switzerland’s Vallée de Joux since 1735. Each timepiece is assembled by one single watchmaker, reflecting the quality and individual attention with which Lamborghini builds its super sports cars for the road, and its 570 hp Super Trofeo race cars.

Both brands share an enormous passion for racing. Blancpain is not only intensely involved with the Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo, but is also official timekeeper for the FIA GT1 World Championship – where Lamborghini cars also compete against other prestigious marques. In July, Lamborghini secured its first win in the newly-formed championship at the iconic Spa-Francorchamps circuit in Belgium, where former Formula One driver Riccardo Zonta and Frank Kechele charged to a first-place finish.

In this special configuration, the Lamborghini Gallardo LP 570-4 Blancpain Edition shows the spirit of competition – the mighty rear spoiler for maximum stability and the engine cover for optimized ventilation were derived directly from the race car featured in the world’s fastest one-make series. The Edition is also equipped with Skorpius wheels with yellow-painted brake calipers and discs made, of course, from carbon-ceramic composite. One striking visual feature that fits perfectly with the matt black paintwork is the carbon-fiber used to make external components, such as the diffuser and mirror casings.

The interior of the Blancpain Edition further reinforces the extremely sporty character of the Gallardo without sacrificing the comfort of the driver and passenger. The entire interior is finished in black Alcantara with yellow accents and visible carbon-fiber. The Blancpain logo is placed on the exterior and also featured on the seats and cockpit in yellow stitching. Propulsion for the Gallardo LP 570-4 Blancpain Edition comes courtesy of the 570 hp V10 power unit from the series Superleggera production car – as is the case for the Super Trofeo race car. Superb traction from the all-wheel drive ensures perfect stability in every situation.

One key factor is the exterior and interior components made from carbon-fiber. Carbon-fiber is ideal for the manufacture of sports cars as its use allows for weight reduction and improved mechanical features. The car’s performance is thus enhanced thanks to a better power-to-weight ratio and reduced total mass, which means that CO2 emissions are also lower.

The V10 power unit with 5.2 liters (317.6 cu in) of displacement generates 419 kW (570 hp) in the Gallardo Blancpain Edition. This puts the power-to-weight ratio of the vehicle at only 2.35 kilograms (5.18 lb) per hp and guarantees breathtaking performance. This super sports car handles the dash from zero to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 3.4 seconds and flies past the 200 km/h (124 mph) mark only 6.8 seconds later, ultimately exceeding 320 km/h (199 mph).