Green cars & Sport Cars

2012 Koenigsegg Sports Cars Agera R

2011-05-17T10:52:00.000-07:00

At the 2011 Geneva Motor Show Koenigsegg is presenting the brand new Koenigsegg Agera R - Quicker than lightning! The name Agera set the tone for the new project. Agera means "to take action" in Swedish. It is also short for the ancient Greek word Ageratos which means "ageless". These two are very suitable meanings, for the car building the future of Koenigsegg.

The 2012 Koenigsegg Agera is designed with the minimalistic "less is more" philosophy in mind. This philosophy means that the shape of the car has to be purely functional with no added features except those purely needed to meet regulation, added safety, ergonomics, practicality and aerodynamics. Koenigsegg believes that if this philosophy is followed, the car will also be beautiful as it is purely purposeful.

All in all the production version of the Koenigsegg Agera is created to take the Koenigsegg experience to the next level both on the road and the track, still maintaining the largest luggage space in the industry in combination with the unique Koenigsegg door system and detachable/stow-able hardtop. There are several differences between the pre-production car previously shown and the production versions. For example, the engine and gearbox configurations are different and some revolutionary interior, chassis and aerodynamic features adorn the production version of the Agera that has never been shown before.
The new car design 2012 Koenigsegg Sports Cars Agera R super speed racer car displayed in Geneva Motor Show 2011 is a very special customer, set to be delivered to its owner’s new Norwegian straight after the show closes. It is equipped with a special section with a Thule roof integrated carbon fiber ski-box containing two pairs of skis Koenigsegg.

At the 2011 Geneva Motor show, Koenigsegg presents the Koenigsegg winter package – the first lifestyle packages offered from Koenigsegg. The main element of this package is the exceptional Lightning Roof Box System. The Lightning Roof Box is developed together with the Swedish rack and roof box manufacturer Thule. The high performance lightweight box is made completely from carbon fibre and has been through several iterations of CFD simulation to ensure it is safe up to 300 km/h, making it the fastest roof box in the world.

The supercar 2012 Koenigsegg Sports Cars Agera R is built with a monocoque carbon to provide maximum rigidity and light weight; It is so structurally sound that does not require an annex roof, allowing the roof as a removable Panel which can be stored away. Koenigsegg hasn’t published performance numbers for R Agera yet, but from tires rated at 260 km/h and horse-like body structure and range as the poison Hennessey, its 0-60 mph time to be approximately 2.5 seconds and a top speed around 250 km/h on a double clutch 7.

2012 Koenigsegg Sports Cars Agera R is powered by 5.0L twin-turbo V8 making a neck snapping 1,115-hp and a maximum torque of 885 lb-ft on E85 fuel. Koenigsegg has its own engine lab, with simulation programs, rapid prototyping machines, engine and chassis dynamometers, and a 1.7 km test track adjacent the factory enabling Koenigsegg to take the cars to 0-320-0 km/h at any time. Furthermore, a 25 minute drive away from the Koenigsegg Factory there is Knutstorp Racetrack, which is described by many as a miniature Nordschleife.

The engine 2012 Koenigsegg Sports Cars Agera R are mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch gear case and we’re pretty aye that cuts the 0 to 62 miles per hour time belt down to something that’s very impressive. Here Koenigsegg can put the engine and car through serious testing and make sure they work in perfect harmony. This gives Koenigsegg unique possibilities to develop technologies normally exclusive to much larger companies.

These are extraordinary numbers considering the size and reliability of the engine without forsaking drivability or flexibility. This is truly downsizing, without drawbacks. These characteristics make it one of the most flexible and easy to use hypercar engines in the world.
The 2012 Koenigsegg Sports Cars Agera R is proportionate, compact and muscular. Its timeless, efficient and distinctive shape is truly a testament to time. The original shape and concept of the Koenigsegg CC, created 15 years ago, is still valid, fresh and highly competitive today. The Agera manage to stay true to the original philosophy, shape and size of the original CC. At the same time, it looks, feels and performs like something belonging to the future.

The price of the optional 'R' package, on top of a normal $1,400,000 Agera, is $211,000 at current exchange rates, but that looks like something of a bargain compared to the $270,000 Koenigsegg charges for creating a bare carbon car.

California Low Carbon Fuel Standard Could Effectively Ban Corn Ethanol

2011-04-16T09:30:00.001-07:00

By a 9-1 vote the California Air Resources Board has voted in support of the Low Carbon Fuel Standard. What's more, the standard includes a penalty for the carbon emissions caused by indirect land use changes associated with the production of biofuels. When the regulations take effect in 2011 this is what will be mandated:

The goal of all this is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from California's transportation fuels by 10% by 2020—a reduction of about 16 million tonnes.

Under the regulation, fuels used in California will have to meet an average declining carbon intensity, based on the entire supply chain of the fuel (including greenhouse gas emissions caused by deforestation and farmland conversion). The baseline is set at 96 grams of carbon for megajoule of energy, declining by 10% by 2020.

Land Use Change Emissions Push Corn Ethanol Past Baseline

It's the inclusion of a penalty for these indirect land use changes into the overall carbon intensity of a particular fuel that has caused controversy: Corn ethanol is already above the baseline at 97 grams of carbon per megajoule, due to a 30 gram penalty assessed for land use changes.

The biofuel industry in general is predictably displeased with the inclusion of the land-use change penalty. Ethanol producers in particular believe that the science behind the assessment of land-use change impacts was not thoroughly reviewed enough, and that other biofuels were not adequately scrutinized for similar land-use change emissions.

It was similar concerns regarding the science behind assessment of land-use change penalties that caused dissent on the Board. Dr John Telles said that he could not ignore the comments of 125 scientists who called the model used to assess indirect land-use change emissions "not good enough."

Prior to implementation of the standard, CARB staff will report back to the board on the indirect impacts of other fuels.

25 More Biofuel Refineries Needed + 3,000 Jobs Created

CARB touts the fact that in order to produce the 1.5 billion gallons of biofuels needed in the state, an additional 25 biofuel production facilities will be required, creating more than 3,000 new jobs, mostly in rural areas.

What is Ethanol?

2011-04-16T09:26:00.000-07:00

Ethanol (ethyl alcohol) is the same type of alcohol found in alcoholic beverages. As a fuel, ethanol can be used in more than 30 flex fuel vehicle models that have been designed to run on alcohol, gasoline, or any combination of the two fuels from the same tank. Most ethanol today is produced from corn or sugar cane, although this will change as cheaper cellulosic ethanol made from fast growing woody grasses and other biomass becomes a reality.

What are Hybrids?

2011-04-16T09:23:00.000-07:00

Hybrids combine two or more different propulsion systems, typically a gasoline engine and one or more electric drive motors. Most hybrids on the road today compliment their gas engines by charging a battery when breaking. Engines running on diesel or other alternative fuels can also be used in hybrids. A hybrid drive is fully scalable, which means the drive can be used to power everything from small commuter cars to large buses and even locomotives. Hybrids get more MPG or miles per gallon than most non-hybrids, and usually have very low tailpipe emissions.

Top 5 green saloons

2011-04-16T09:17:00.000-07:00

Saloon cars make an ideal solution for many people, from growing families to business executives. Many offer space and pace, but this need not be at the expense of eco-credentials. outlines the Top 5 Green Saloons currently available on the market:

Toyota Prius T3 Hybrid 1.8 VVT-i 5dr with 89g/km CO2 and 72.4mpg
combined.

Lexus CT200h with 94g/km CO2 and 68.9mpg combined.

Honda Insight 1.3 IMA SE 5dr CVT with a mere 101g/km of CO2 and 64.2mpg
on a combined cycle.

Audi A1 1.6 TDi with 105g/km CO2 and 70.6mpg combined.

Ford Focus 1.6 TDCi with 109g/km of CO2 and 67.3mpg combined.

Nissan LEAF reservations Begin April 20

2010-04-20T10:25:00.000-07:00

In response to strong consumer demand, Nissan North America, Inc. (NNA) will begin taking reservations for the Nissan LEAF zero-emission, all-electric vehicle on April 20. The reservation process is a first step in securing a place on the list to purchase or lease a Nissan LEAF. The Nissan LEAF begins rolling out to select markets in December, and will be widely available in 2011.

April 20 also marks the date for the debut of a new website on NissanUSA.com to support the launch of the Nissan LEAF. The website will continue to serve as a resource about the most up-to-date information for the Nissan LEAF, including upcoming special events.

In North America, Nissan’s operations include automotive design, engineering, consumer and corporate financing, sales and marketing, distribution and manufacturing. Nissan is dedicated to improving the environment under the Nissan Green Program 2010, whose key priorities are reducing CO2 emissions, cutting other emissions and increasing recycling. More information on the Nissan LEAF and zero emissions can be found at www.nissanusa.com.

MSRP excludes applicable tax, title and license fees. Dealer sets actual price. Prices and specs are subject to change without notice.

Toyota Industries develops solar charging station for PHVs, EVs

2010-01-14T16:24:00.000-08:00

Toyota Industries Corp developed a solar charging station for plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHVs) and electric vehicles (EVs).The municipal government of Toyota City in Aichi Prefecture, Japan, adopted it, planning to build 21 stations at 11 places such as the municipal office, its branch offices, train stations, etc. The city will start the operation of those charging stations with 20 units of the Prius Plug-in Hybrid in April 2010.The output of the solar panel is 1.9kW, and the capacity of the storage battery is 8.4kWh. The maximum output of the power converter is 3.2kW (AC202V) in grid-connected operation and 1.5kVA (AC101V) in self-sustained operation.The charging station has a solar photovoltaic system and a power storage system and is connected to the grid. The electricity generated from solar power is stored in the power storage system, and vehicles are charged with photovoltaic electricity and electricity from the storage system. When the stored electricity runs out, the grid electricity is used so that vehicles can be stably charged regardless of weather or time of day.On the other hand, when there is extra electricity stored in the power storage system, it is used for the facilities in the station or sold to a utility company. When a disaster occurs, the station can provide photovoltaic electricity and stored electricity to electrical equipment that uses AC100V power.

Toyota unveils FT-CH concept in Detroit

2010-01-14T16:22:00.000-08:00

Toyota today unveiled the FT-CH dedicated hybrid concept at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit. The FT-CH is a concept that meets Toyota’s strategy to offer a wider variety of full hybrid choices to its customers, in addition to the introduction of plug-in hybrids (PHVs) and battery electrics (EVs) in model year 2012, and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles (FCHVs) in 2015 in global markets.The CH stands for compact hybrid as in compact class and it’s a concept that can best be defined by comparing it with the mid-size class Prius. The FT-CH captures the spirit and functionality of a car that thrives in the inner-city environment; sized right to be nimble, responsive and maneuverable. The FT-CH was styled at Toyota’s European Design and Development (ED²) centre in Nice, France. Compared to Prius, it is 22 inches shorter in overall length, yet loses less than an inch in overall width. In spite of its compact external dimensions, FT-CH was designed for maximum passenger comfort and interior roominess, with an imaginative sense of style.ED² designers looked to capture the vivid, high-energy appeal of what has come to be called the 8-bit generation. Popularized in the early 80’s, 8-bit microprocessor technology dominated the budding home video game industry. Today, 8-bit is considered a specific retro-style that is embraced by such things as 8-bit genre music and 8-bit inspired art. The direct reference to the 8-bit generation is meant to be fun and innovative, colourful and stylish, with strong appeal to young buyers. Lighter in weight and even more fuel efficient than Prius, the concept specifically targets a lower price point than Prius, thus appealing to a younger, less-affluent buyer demographic. In the early 2010s, Toyota plans to sell a million hybrids per year globally, a majority of those in North America. To accomplish this, Toyota will launch eight all new hybrid models in the USA over the next few years*. These will not include next generation versions of current hybrids; instead, they will be all new dedicated hybrid vehicles, or all new hybrid versions of existing petrol engine models.Toyota also plans to introduce plug-in hybrids (PHVs) and battery electrics (EVs) to global markets in 2012, and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles (FCHVs) in 2015.
* Eight new hybrid models to be introduced into USA market

Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Concept

2009-12-11T10:44:00.000-08:00

50th Anniversary Corvette Stingray Concept Design and technology come together to celebrate Corvette’s past, present and future

DETROIT – Chevrolet delivers a futuristic vision of technology and design with the 50th Anniversary Corvette Stingray Concept. A version of the model was first shown at the 2009 Chicago Auto Show and stars as “Sideswipe” in Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen. The Corvette Stingray Concept represents both the iconic legacy and an exciting future for Corvette. The Corvette Stingray Concept was developed as an internal design challenge to combine classic Corvette cues with surprisingly high-tech features, modern materials, and a striking new appearance. The car is well-appointed with a clamshell hood, scissor-style doors, ergonomic seats, rear-view camera with night vision enhancement, and a high performance hybrid drive. Interactive touch controls allow the driver to customize the power and efficiency of his or her ride and share it with friends via the in-car camera system and advanced telemetrics.

Image of CR-Z catalog page shows Mugen accessories

2009-12-10T01:17:00.000-08:00

We've been contacted once again by Japanese TOV member 'hnsxr' and this time he has sent an image of the CR-Z catalog page containing an image of a CR-Z with Mugen styling enhancements.

The Audi R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro

2009-12-08T13:22:00.000-08:00

The Audi R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro – Breathtakingly dynamic open-top driving
- Audi high-performance sports car with lightweight cloth top
- Distinctive styling, carbon fiber body parts
- Mid-mounted V10 engine producing 386 kW (525 hp) and exceptional performance

- Exceptional performance and breathtaking dynamism coupled with the intense sensations of open-top driving: Audi presents the R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro. Its lightweight cloth top opens and closes fully automatically; several body parts are made of a carbon fiber composite material.

The V10 engine produces 386 kW (525 hp) and launches the open-top two-seater to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 4.1 seconds on its way to a top speed of 313 km/h (194.49 mph). Featuring technologies such as the Audi Space Frame (ASF), quattro permanent all-wheel drive, full-LED headlights and with an innovative seatbelt microphone available as an option, the R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro is the new top-of-the-range Audi.

The Audi R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro makes a powerful statement. The sculptured lines of the emotion-packed, high-performance sports car are a fascinating and unique interpretation of its dynamism. Unlike the Coupé, the Spyder does not have sideblades behind the doors. The side panels and the large cover over the storage compartment for the cloth top are made of a carbon fiber composite. Two arched cowls, which extend to the spoiler lip and include large, integrated air vents, give the rear of the open-top two-seater a powerful profile.

Like every open-top Audi, the R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro has a cloth top – an uncompromising solution for a high-performance sports car. The soft top’s approximate weight is a mere 30 kilograms (66.14 lb); it thus keeps the vehicle’s total weight and center of gravity low. The top takes up little space when open and is a harmonious design element when closed. It tapers off to two slim fins extending to the trailing edge of the car, emphasizing the elongated silhouette.

The electrohydraulic soft top opens and closes in 19 seconds, even while driving at speeds up to 50 km/h (31.07 mph). When opened, it folds like a Z into its storage compartment over the V10 engine. The compartment cover opens and closes automatically. The heated glass window, which is separate from the cloth top, is lowered into the bulkhead. It can be independently raised and lowered at the press of a switch, with the top up or down. An additional net-like wind deflector comes standard and can be latched into the bulkhead behind the seats in two easy steps.

The top, which comprises an outer skin of a leakproof textile fabric and the headliner, is fully compatible with high-speed driving. When driving at moderate speeds with the top up, interior noise levels in the R8 Spyder are barely higher than in the Coupé. The bulkhead includes integrated rollover protection in the form of two strong, spring-tensioned plates. Head/thorax side bags in the backrests protect the passengers in the event of a side impact. Full-size airbags stand at the ready in the event of a head-on collision. In a rear-end collision, the integral head restraint system reduces the risk of whiplash injuries.

In the version with manual transmission, the R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro weighs only 1,720 kilograms thanks primarily to its aluminum Audi Space Frame (ASF) body. Despite reinforcements in the area of the sills, the center tunnel, the rear wall, the floor pan and the A- and B-pillars, the body weighs only 216 kilograms (476.2 lb) – just 6 kilograms (13.23 lb) more than that of the R8 Coupé. The high stiffness of the ASF body, which includes an integrated engine frame of ultra-lightweight magnesium, provides the foundation for the car’s dynamic handling and superior safety.

Close attention to detail: the design

Numerous details demonstrate that the Audi designers put their hearts into the design of the R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro. The air inlets in the nose, which direct air across the three radiators, and the lip of the front skirt are painted high-gloss black. The struts in the broad, low, single-frame grille are finely coated with chrome. The standard full-LED headlights are technical works of art. Their reflectors resemble open mussel shells; the daytime running lights appear to be a homogeneous strip, but actually comprise 24 individual LEDs that form a curve at the lower edge of the headlight.

The full-LED headlights from Audi are unmatched by its international competitors. Light-emitting diodes are used for the low beams, the high beams, the daytime running lights and the turn signals. With a color temperature of 6,000 Kelvin, the LED light is very similar to daylight, making it easier on the eyes when driving at night. Additional strengths include excellent light distribution, long service life and extremely low energy consumption.

The side sills of the R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro are broad and angular. V10 badges on the flanks allude to the power of the engine. A dark surface between the rear lights emphasizes the car’s width. The chambers of the lights are colored dark red, with LEDs generating a three-dimensional light pattern. The exhaust system ends in two large, oval tailpipes, and the fully lined underbody ends in an upturned diffuser. The rear spoiler extends automatically at higher speeds.

Audi offers the R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro with a choice of three colors for the top. The body is available in eleven paint finishes, with metallic and pearl effect finishes standard. The windshield frame is coated with anodized aluminum.

Sporty luxury: the interior

The open-top two-seater from Audi features a generously spacious interior. The three-spoke leather multifunction sport steering wheel is flattened at the bottom as in a race car, and the low-mounted, electrically adjustable seats guide and support the body perfectly.

Quality of fit and finish is extraordinary and the controls are clear and logical. The standard driver information system includes a lap timer for recording lap times. The instruments and the gear lever knob feature red rings. The pedals, the footrests and the shift paddles of the optional R tronic are in aluminum look. Highlighting the list of standard equipment are a generous full-leather package featuring Fine Nappa leather, an excellent sound system from Bang & Olufsen, a deluxe automatic air conditioning system and heated seats. Six different interior colors are available.

Many additional fine features documents the top status of the Audi R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro. The leather for the seats are colored with pigments that reflect the infrared component of sunlight, which keeps the seats up to 20 degrees Celsius (68 degrees Fahrenheit) cooler.

Door sill strips coated with aluminum and adorned with black satin finish applications impart an air of luxurious sportiness. Three storage compartments are integrated into the rear bulkhead, one of which contains the optional CD changer or Audi music interface, if desired. There is a front compartment for 100 liters (3.53 cu ft) of luggage.

The latest version of the navigation system plus with MMI operating logic is also standard in the R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro. It features higher resolution and particularly fast route calculation. The system’s most visible new feature is the high-resolution, 6.5-inch display. The topographic view can be scrolled in any direction. The system can be combined optionally with a rearview camera that serves as a parking aid.

Audi offers custom extras, such as exclusive leather packages and special inlays. A worldwide first is the optional seatbelt microphone for the hands-free unit, which makes it possible to talk on the phone even with the top down on the highway. Three small, flat microphones are integrated into both seatbelts. At least one of them is ideally positioned relative to the speaker when the belt is on. There is a fourth microphone in the windshield frame.

Dazzling performance: the chassis

The Audi R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro has a 2.65-meter (8.69-ft) wheelbase and a 43:57 axle load distribution. Like in a race car, there are double triangular wishbones made of aluminum at all four wheels. The hydraulic rack-and-pinion power steering conveys highly precise road contact.

The chassis is tuned for good comfort, thanks in part to standard Audi magnetic ride technology. This uses magnetic fields in the shock absorbers to adjust their response to road conditions within milliseconds and adapt to the driver’s style. The driver can choose between two base characteristics. A sports suspension with conventional shock absorbers is available as an option.

The R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro rolls on 19-inch wheels of 10-spoke Y design. The front rims are shod with 235/35 tires, with 295/30 tires at the back. 305/30 tires are optionally available. The brakes offer impressive performance: The four discs are internally ventilated and perforated, with eight-piston calipers up front and four-piston calipers at the back. Optionally available from Audi are oversized carbon fiber-ceramic discs that are extremely lightweight, robust and long-lived. The ESP stabilization system has a Sport mode and can also be completely deactivated. The brake system includes an assist function that facilitates starting on gradients.

The Audi R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro is built by quattro GmbH at the Neckarsulm plant. The vehicle, including the ASF, is largely hand-built. The open-top two-seater will be launched in Germany in the first quarter of 2010. Its base price will be 156,400 euros.

US launch information for the R8 Spyder is not available.

Prius Plug-in Hybrid' Lease Discussions Begin in Japan

2009-12-08T13:15:00.000-08:00

TOYOTA MOTOR CORPORATION (TMC) announces that it has started discussions with potential users in Japan of the newly developed "Prius Plug-in Hybrid". Approximately 200 units will be leased through a leasing company to designated parties such as government ministries, local governments and energy companies that are actively promoting environmentally considerate vehicles.

The designated parties are principally participants in the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry's "EV & PHV Towns" program*, which aims to promote the widespread use of electric vehicles (EVs) and plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHVs).

Details of the leasing scheme for Japan will be determined through November, with delivery scheduled for mid-December onward. The vehicles will only be leased to parties already designated by TMC.

The Prius Plug-in Hybrid is based on the third-generation "Prius" and is equipped with a lithium-ion battery that can be charged using an external electric power source. The vehicle can be used as an EV for short distances, while for medium- and long-distance trips it functions as a conventional gasoline-electric hybrid, meaning use is not constrained by remaining battery power or availability of battery-charging infrastructure. Furthermore, PHVs, such as the Prius Plug-in Hybrid, are expected to achieve higher fuel efficiency than conventional hybrid vehicles, limit consumption of fossil fuels, and reduce CO2 emissions and atmospheric pollution.

TMC believes that, to meet the diversification of energy sources, PHVs are currently the most-suitable environmentally considerate vehicles for widespread use. TMC is therefore encouraging PHV market introduction and understanding toward widespread use by introducing a total of 500 units of the Prius Plug-in Hybrid globally - primarily to fleet customers. Approximately 150 units will go to the United States, and more than 150 units will go to Europe, to countries including France, the United Kingdom and Portugal.

TMC has positioned hybrid technologies as core environmentally considerate vehicle technologies and is using them in the development not only of plug-in hybrid vehicles but also electric vehicles and fuel-cell hybrid vehicles. TMC will continue its efforts in developing and putting into practical use these next-generation vehicles, which are hoped to contribute to reducing petroleum consumption, reducing CO2 emissions and responding to the diversification of energy sources.

* An intensive model program, through the collaboration of the national and local governments, regional businesses and auto manufacturers in Japan, for the introduction and promotion of electric vehicles and plug-in hybrid vehicles as well as for accelerating the setting up of charging infrastructures and the development of societal awareness and preparedness. Each participating local government is to submit by around the end of this financial year a master plan that reflects the progress of its action plan.

2009 Aston Martin DB9 Volante

2009-12-07T13:14:00.000-08:00

First Drive Review
More power and a revised transmission make driving Aston Martin’s stunning ragtop almost as pleasurable as gazing at it.

In Aston Martin’s lexicon, four-seat convertibles are known as Volantes, center stacks are called façades, and in the case of the DBS and the 2009 DB9, the key has become an Emotion Control Unit. That last term deserves a chuckle, because even for jaded automotive journalists, it takes more than a pocket-sized stainless-steel-and-glass transmitter to control the emotion elicited on rousing the 12 cylinders that live under the hood of a drop-dead gorgeous DB9 Volante.

Certainly, the DB9 could sell on looks alone, but when a car is this beautiful (and costs $200,000, give or take a shekel), performance expectations are high. And frankly, the DB9’s curb appeal hasn’t quite been matched by its performance up to this point. An automatic coupe we tested a few years ago took 4.8 seconds to reach 60 mph from a stop. That number is quick but not mind-blowingly so—just ask a Dodge Charger SRT8 or a Mercedes-Benz E550. It’s good, then, that Aston Martin blessed the ’09 DB9 with more horsepower, a quicker-shifting automatic, and minor chassis tweaks, all intended to help bring its thrill factor more into balance with its immutable beauty.

With more than 10,000 units sold thus far, the DB9 is already considered the most successful Aston Martin ever. And with this year’s extra helping of excitement, the DB9 finally has dynamics to match its looks. In the Car and Driver lexicon, we’d call it “pretty damn good.”

Toyota Prius named Japan Car of the Year

2009-12-07T13:08:00.001-08:00

The new Toyota Prius has clinched its first major award, voted Japan Car of the Year by a panel of distinguished motoring journalists and industry experts at the Tokyo motor show. The accolade is a formal acknowledgement of the advances Toyota has made with the third generation Prius, which delivers more power yet even better fuel efficiency and lower emissions from its full hybrid powertrain.

Prius’s advanced but eminently user-friendly technology is also winning the hearts and minds of its most important critics, drivers themselves. In Japan Prius has been the nation’s top selling new car for the past five months in a row – every month since the car first arrived in showrooms. And with more than 31,000 sales in September alone, new Prius last month accounted for almost 11 per cent of the entire new car market.

New Prius is also making a big impact with motorists here in the UK, with more than 4,000 customer orders received since its launch in August. In September its sales performance moved it up to become Toyota’s third best-seller, after Yaris and Auris.

Toyota Prius tuning by Tommy Kaira and ASI

2009-12-07T13:05:00.000-08:00

Eco-friendly cars are the talk of the town for the moment. Every manufacturer is either producing one or planning to. Toyota is an acknowledged leader in the field with its Prius hybrid as well as others. Few respected tuners have embraced the green thing so far, unless they are based in Japan where it almost seems the government has a decree forcing tuners to work on "green" cars as well.

How else do you explain the flurry of activity coming from enviro-friendly garages around the country? This Prius done by Tommi Kaira is but one of these. It features low front lips, big front air dams shaped like those of an Audi R8, thick rims, wide side skirts and a new rear bumper. The Prius logo is missing, as is the discretion normally linked to the car. Most striking though are the four tailpipes which do not in any way suggest "green". In fact they have the opposite effect on the eye.

Cars like the GT-R or the Impreza STI are well-suited for power and body upgrades. They are expected to pollute the eardrum along with the planet, and their fans love them for it. Prius and Honda Insight are quite different simply because of the statement they make.

There certainly is a future in eco-tuning (new word for you) but no one is quite sure what it looks like. That's perhaps why cars like this one could be discarded in current tuning circles. One such tuner is Ben Schaffer, owner of Bespoke Ventures. His company is a major American/international parts distributor and marketer for top Japanese tuning brands (KenStyle, Top Secret). Schaffer's view is that eco is good yes, but it has no place in the world of powerhouses like the R35 GT-R. Moderation is the key instead of jumping on the bandwagon. He reminds his fellow competitors/colleagues not to lose sight of their core business and enthusiasm which is sports cars.

Honda to display EV-N concept and near-production CR-Z Concept 2009 at Tokyo Motor Show

2009-12-07T13:02:00.000-08:00

Honda Motor Co., Ltd. has announced its lineup of production and concept-model automobiles, motorcycles, power products and other highlights for its display at the 41st Tokyo Motor Show 2009. Organized by the Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association, the event will take place at Makuhari Messe in Chiba, Japan, from October 24 to November 4.

Covering the largest floor area of any single brand at the show, Honda booth combines automobiles, motorcycles, power products and other highlights to present the distinctive world of Honda mobility. Driven by dreams and passion, and with the booth concept of "Creating the never before!" Honda strived to propose attractive products that please and amaze its customers.

Honda's automobile exhibit will present a variety of environmentally responsible approaches to mobility, including hybrid vehicles, a fuel cell electric vehicle and a battery electric vehicle. The display will also highlight models with innovative packaging and enhanced driving performance that communicate the enjoyment an automobile can provide.

With the motorcycle display, Honda proposes products which are filled with creativity and dreams and create new value to further broaden the potential of motorcycles. The motorcycles on display range from large-displacement sports bikes that offer new riding pleasure to compact commuter models powered by electricity.

Also on display are butane gas canister-powered power products, as well as a new personal mobility device which was developed based on the concept of "harmony with people."

The special display zone named "HELLO!" (Honda Electric mobility Loop) will feature a comprehensive display of electricity-based products, including products that supply electricity, vehicles that run on electricity and products with innovative electronic technologies.

Outline of the exhibition at the Honda booth

HELLO! Zone
The HELLO! (Honda Electric mobility Loop) Zone will provide a comprehensive display of Honda's electromotive technologies, including automobiles, motorcycles, power products, and more - everything from products that supply electricity to products that incorporate electronic technologies. By linking solar panels that supply electricity with battery electric vehicles that emit zero CO2 in use, Honda envisions the low-carbon society of the near future. In addition, each HELLO! vehicle features interactive communication technologies that showcase the fun ways in which mobility devices can interact with people and society. On display will be the FCX CLARITY, a fuel cell electric vehicle that runs on the electricity it produces from hydrogen; the EV-N battery electric vehicle; the EV-Cub electric motorcycle; the EV-MONPAL electric personal mobility device; the new U3-X, a one-wheel personal mobility device that uses balance control technology that was developed through the ASIMO bipedal humanoid robot; and LOOP, a portable communication tool that allows people and mobility devices to communicate with each other.

Automobile display
The automobile display will focus on hybrid vehicles, which Honda believes offer one of the most practical means of addressing environmental concerns at the present time. Joining the Insight, which has been very well received since its release in Japan in February 2009, will be the CR-Z Concept 2009, a hybrid with a new sense and feel, making its world premiere, and the SKYDECK, an innovative six-passenger, multi-purpose hybrid vehicle. Other models on display are the all-new STEP WGN and STEP WGN SPADA (both scheduled for introduction in Japan in October 2009), which feature innovative packaging to expand the joy of using automobiles, and the all-new CIVIC TYPE R EURO (scheduled for introduction in Japan in November 2009), which captures the joy of driving, discovered and refined on European roads.

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Text in Japanese

Hondaは、10月24日（土）より11月4日（水）まで千葉県・幕張メッセで開催される「第41回東京モーターショー2009」（主催：社団法人日本自動車工業会）に、コンセプトモデルを含む四輪車と二輪車および汎用製品等の展示物を出展する。

　今回は、出展各社のなかで単独ブランドとしては最大面積となるブースに、四輪車と二輪車、汎用製品等を合同で展示し、Hondaならではのモビリティの世界を創出する。ブースコンセプトは“ないものをつくれ。”とし、「夢」や「熱い想い」を原動力に、お客様の笑顔や驚きにつながるような魅力的な製品を提案することを目指した。四輪車では、ハイブリッド車を中心に、燃料電池電気自動車・電気自動車等の環境に対する様々なアプローチを紹介。また、革新的なパッケージングを持つモデルや、動力性能を磨きあげた走りのモデルも紹介し、クルマが持つ「使う楽しさ」「乗る楽しさ」を提案する。二輪車では、その持つ可能性をさらに広げていくための、独創性と夢があふれる新価値商品を提案。新たな操る楽しさを提案する大型スポーツモデルから、電動コミューターモデルまで、多彩なラインアップを紹介する。また、汎用のガスパワー製品や、人との調和をコンセプトにした新たなパーソナルモビリティも展示する。さらに、電気を供給する製品から電動化技術を用いた製品までを総合的に表現するためのゾーンを設け、“HELLO!（Honda Electric mobility Loop）”と名づけ、紹介する。

■展示概要
【HELLO!ゾーン】
　Hondaの持つ四輪車・二輪車・汎用製品・その他、電気を供給する製品から電動化技術を用いた製品までを総合的に表現するためのゾーンを設け、“HELLO!（Honda Electric mobility Loop）”と名づけ、紹介する。走行時におけるCO2の排出がゼロとなる電気自動車と、電気を供給する太陽電池をリンクさせ、近未来の低炭素社会を表現。また、各モデルに双方向のコミュニケーション機能を持たせることで、モビリティが人と社会と、より楽しくつながっていく姿を表現している。展示モデルは、水素を燃料として電気を発生させて走る燃料電池電気自動車「FCXクラリティ」と、電気自動車「EV-N」、電動二輪車「EV-Cub」、電動パーソナルモビリティ「EV-MONPAL」、自律二足歩行ロボット「ASIMO」のバランス制御技術を活かした一輪モビリティ「U3-X」で、これらを携帯端末機「LOOP」を用いて人とモビリティがコミュニケーションする世界をつくり出している。

【四輪車展示】
　四輪車は、Hondaが現在最も有効な環境対応の手段のひとつと考えているハイブリッド車をメインとして、今年2月の発売以来好評を頂いている「インサイト」をはじめ、ワールドプレミアとなる新感覚ハイブリッドモデル「CR-Z CONCEPT 2009」、6人乗りのマルチパーパス・ハイブリッドモデル「SKYDECK（スカイデッキ）」を展示。さらに、クルマを“使う喜び”を広げる革新的なパッケージング技術を備えた新型「ステップワゴン」「ステップワゴンスパーダ」（10月発売予定）や、“操る喜び”を欧州で磨きあげた新型「シビック TYPE R ユーロ」（11月発売予定）もそれぞれ展示し、クルマを使う楽しさ、クルマに乗る楽しさを提案する。

【二輪車展示】
　二輪車は、独自の可能性にチャレンジすることで、独創性と夢があふれる新価値商品を提案。ワールドプレミアとなる「CB1100」は、空冷4気筒エンジンにこだわり、歴代の“CB”が持つ普遍的な美しさや乗り味を追求。また、ジャパンプレミアとなるスポーツツアラー「VFR1200F」は先進の技術とスタイリングを追求するとともに、操る楽しさを提案している。なお「VFR1200F」では、二輪車として世界初^※のデュアルクラッチトランスミッションを搭載したモデルも展示する。さらに、環境対応の先進モデルとして、アイドリングストップ機構を搭載し、高い燃費性能を実現したグローバルスクーター「PCX」や、電動ならではのクリーン性能とタフネス性を両立したスクーター「EVE-neo（イーブ・ネオ）」等を展示する。
※ Honda調べ

【汎用・その他展示】
　汎用製品・その他の製品の展示としては、新開発のガスパワー発電機「エネポ」や発売以来好評を頂いているガスパワー耕うん機「ピアンタ」、また自律二足歩行ロボット「ASIMO」の協調制御技術を活かした歩行アシストシステムの「リズム歩行アシスト」「体重支持型歩行アシスト」を紹介する。