Hyundai Motor Company, South Korea’s largest automaker, began taking pre-launch orders for its Elantra LPI Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV), its first hybrid vehicle for commercial sale.

Hyundai will accept pre-launch orders until July 7, a day before it officially introduces the car in the South Korean domestic market. The car, which is the world’s first hybrid electric vehicle to be powered by a Liquefied Petroleum Injected (LPI) engine, was first unveiled at the 2009 Seoul Motor Show in April. To be sold under the Avante badge in Korea, the LPI HEV will ensure eco-friendliness as well as economical operating costs and differentiated design.

Powered by an LPI ‘Gamma’ engine displacing 1.6 litres, a 15 kW (105 Nm) electric motor and a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), the Elantra LPI HEV emits just 99 g / km of CO2 and 90 percent fewer emissions than an equivalent standard 1.6 litre petrol powered Elantra to qualify as a Super Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (SULEV). Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), often referred to as auto gas, is a low carbon emitting hydrocarbon fuel which burns more cleanly than petrol or Diesel.

In addition, the Elantra LPI Hybrid is a mild–type hybrid+, with a fuel economy rating of 5.6 litres / 100 km (or gasoline equivalent of 4.5 litres / 100 km). This represents a 47 percent improvement over a conventional 1.6 litre Elantra with automatic transmission. It’s even cheaper to operate as the average price of LPG in Korea is 50% less than that of gasoline.

Elantra LPI Hybrid is also the world’s first hybrid vehicle to adopt advanced Lithium Ion Polymer rechargeable batteries that have higher energy density, lower manufacturing costs, are more robust to physical damage and can also take more charge–discharge cycles before storage capacity begins to degrade than Lithium Ion Batteries. The technology and all key components in the Elantra LPI HEV have been developed by Hyundai and its local partners including the motor, battery and low DC/DC converter.

Norris Designs Evo coming up to Knickerbrook during Time Attack practice - Modified Live, Oulton
Image via: Flickr

Rewind forty-five years when he introduced the original Ford Mustang at the 1964 New York World’s Fair, auto icon Lee Iacocca has announced a new version of the infamous muscle car – the Iacocca Silver 45th Anniversary Edition Ford Mustang. Featuring a unique Mustang fastback look, only 45 of the “2009½” special edition cars will be built, each finished in a unique “Iacocca” chosen silver hue.

Two years in the making, the limited edition Mustang is a collaborative effort by Iacocca, designer Michael Leone, and coachbuilder Gaffoglio Family Metalcrafters. The project you see is in fact the first of a new customization program called I Legacy. A partnership with Galpin Ford located in California, the cars are being offered for public sale.

The car is mostly hand-built and features a number of unique elements such as the sunken headlights, slanted grill and low stance. Based around the 09 Mustang platform, the car is available with either a normally-aspirated 4.6L V8 rated at 320hp along with an optional supercharged model that delivers 400hp. A five-speed manual transmission is fitted as standard on both cars.

A Ford Racing Suspension Package adds firmer spring rates and re-valved shock absorbers. 14in Ford Racing Braking Package is optional. The wheels measure in at 20in and crafted from forged aluminum.

On the inside, the car comes with an Iacocca signature dash plaque and serial number, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and aluminum door sill plates.

Expect to see the special edition models arrive in late July at the Southern Californian Galpin Ford dealership.

For contact and availability details be sure to visit: www.ilegacy.com.

OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE:
Forty-five years after he introduced the original Ford Mustang, launched at a dramatic press conference at the 1964 New York World’s Fair, auto industry visionary Lee Iacocca today announced a new version of the famous muscle car – the Iacocca Silver 45th Anniversary Edition Ford Mustang – a breathtaking vehicle that utilizes the latest in Ford performance technology with a style and panache that screams, Mustang fastback. Only 45 “2009½” Iacocca Silver Edition Mustangs – all painted a special “Iacocca” chosen silver hue – will be built.

Nearly two years in the making, the Iacocca Silver Edition Mustang is a collaborative effort by Iacocca, designer Michael Leone, and Gaffoglio Family Metalcrafters, the world-class coachbuilding and Design Company in Fountain Valley, Calif. The new business venture is called I Legacy, and it will be in concert with Galpin Ford, the exclusive Ford dealership to offer these Iacocca Silver 45th Anniversary Edition Ford Mustangs to the public.

In a word, the new Iacocca Silver Edition Mustang is stunning. The lines flow organically from front to rear. The hand-crafted piece of rolling art, with its innovations and impact of the fastback design is truly exceptional in every way. With its sunken headlights, slanted grill and low stance, the car gives you “street attitude.”

“Once in a while a car comes along that changes everything, and that was the original Mustang,” said Iacocca.

The Silver Edition Mustang perpetuates the Iacocca mystique.

The car begins life on a 2009 Mustang platform, which is then uniquely modified and coachbuilt. While the exterior fastback design of the Iacocca Silver Mustang is compelling, the mechanical underpinnings are true American muscle. Two power plant options will be offered, a normally-aspirated 4.6-liter Ford V8 rated at 320 horsepower and an optional supercharged version that delivers a head-snapping 400 horsepower. Both engines are covered by a factory Ford warranty. Drivers will harness the power through a quick-shifting 5-speed manual transmission.

The car’s suspension has been upgraded to keep pace with the power delivery. A Ford Racing Handling Package adds firmer springs and re-valved shock absorbers. A 14-inch Ford Racing Braking Package is optional. All suspension components will be covered under a factory Ford warranty, as well.

Inside the Iacocca Silver Mustang, the interior is resplendent with luxurious touches that highlight the car’s special heritage, including Iacocca Diamond Design leather seats with embroidery stitching, an Iacocca signature dash plaque with serial number, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with “I” badge, and Iacocca-badged aluminum door sill plates.

The cars will initially be revealed and then available at a reception in late July, at Southern California’s Galpin Ford dealership, the world’s largest volume Ford dealer for 19 years, as well as an innovator in the promotion and retail of specialty automobiles. The price is yet to be announced.

The “Father of the Mustang” returns to the legend that started it all.

For more photos, videos and/or information about the Iacocca Silver 45th Anniversary Edition Mustang and I Legacy, please log onto www.ilegacy.com.

For sales inquiries please call Galpin Ford’s Iacocca Mustang specialist, Brandon Boeckmann at 1-800-829-0744.

Iacocca Silver Edition Mustang – Specifications

Engines
• 4.6-liter V8 with 320 HP (Ford Racing Cold Air - under WARRANTY)
• 4.6-liter V8 with 400HP Supercharger Optional (Ford Racing Supercharger - under WARRANTY)

Drivetrain
• 5-speed stick shift transmission (there might be automatics)

Suspension
• Ford Racing Handling Package (Ford Racing Package - under WARRANTY)
• 14-inch’ Brakes Optional (Ford Racing Package - under WARRANTY)

Wheels & Tires
• Iacocca Design 20″ Chrome wheels with “I” Design center cap
• 20”x 9 ½ ” (F), 20″x 9 ½ ” (R)
• Goodyear Eagle RSA 245 X 45 X R20

Interior
• Iacocca Diamond Design Leather Seats with Embroidery Stitching
• Iacocca Signature Dash Plaque with Serial Number
• Iacocca Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel with “I” badge
• Iacocca Aluminum Door Still Plates
• One-Touch Up/Down power Windows
• Two Power Outlets
• Variable-Speed Windshield Wipers
• Rear Window Defroster
• Air-Conditioning

Exterior
• Iacocca DESIGN FASTBACK
• Iacocca Design Hood Emblem
• Iacocca Design Trunk Cap “I” Emblem
• Iacocca Design Trunk Lettering

Finally, after years of speculation - The Stig has been unveiled live on Top Gear!
Press play and find out who the man behind the mask is…

Asked by Jeremy Clarkson to take off his helmet, revealing F1’s now 40-year-old seven time world champion Michael Schumacher. Clarkson jokingly asked the famous German what his name was before he became famous as The Stig, but Schumacher answered: “You have to have some secrets”.

The true identity of The Stig was leaked by the press earlier this year as 33-year-old Ben Collins. Speculation was not confirmed by the BBC and it remains rumoured that the character is actually played by multiple drivers. A spokesman for the TV network did confirm that Schumacher was The Stig for the Ferrari segment, but that otherwise the truth would remain “a mystery”.

Since Chrysler has officially inked a strategic alliance with Fiat, the new lineup is starting to come into focus. We were already understand that vehicles like the Fiat 500 and Panda were headed our way, but new reports seems to outline all the new vehicles Chrysler-Fiat has planned.

The Fiat’s C-EVO platform is set to see extensive use in the U.S., underpinning the next generations of the Dodge Journey and Caliber, Chrysler Sebring and Jeep Liberty. The C-EVO platform is planned to be used as the basis for an Alfa Romeo-badged SUV. A second Alfa SUV, called the GTX, will be see components from the Jeep Grand Cherokee’s WL platform in July 2011. The GTX will be built at the Grand Cherokee’s Jefferson North plant but will be sold globally. Alfa is targeting 30,000 annual sales for the GTX.

Finally the Dodge Hornet will see the light of day in 2011, being built on Fiat’s 199 platform. Chrysler’s hang-up with Fiat will cancel previous plans to build the Hornet on a Nissan-based platform. The Alfa Romeo MiTo will join the Hornet on Fiat’s 199 platform and will also be built at Chrysler’s Belvidere Assembly Plant in 2011.

Expect to see the Fiat 500 and Jeep Panda tol be built at Chrysler’s Toluca, Mexico plant and should be in dealerships by Jul 2011.

Michael Schumacher covered around 20 laps of Fiorano today at the wheel of the 599 GTB equipped with the Handling GT Evoluzione package that was recently introduced at the Geneva Show.

The seven-times World F1 Champion took to the track to try out the improved handling offered by the new set-up which emphasises the performance of this, Ferrari’s most powerful berlinetta.

The Handling GT Evoluzione package includes a lower, stiffer ride, a new tyre compound offering even better levels of grip, modified magnetorheological damper settings that improve body control and an even more sporty exhaust sound. The HGTE package also includes a number of styling touches that distinguish it from the standard production car, including a more aggressive front grille, specific 20″ rims and abundant use of carbon-fibre trim in the cockpit.

Schumacher took the 599 GTB HGTE to its very limits at the Fiorano track during one of the factory’s Pilota Ferrari driving courses. These are organised exclusively for Ferrari owners and four levels of courses are available - Basic, Advanced, Evolution and Challenge, along with a special On Ice course and a dedicated one for those wishing to race in the traditional one-make racing series, the Ferrari Challenge. The courses have been run in Italy for over 15 years and, more recently, courses have also been set up in the USA, China and, from 2009, in Japan.

With its Pilota Ferrari driving courses, Ferrari offers owners a comprehensive range of expert tuition designed to progressively instruct drivers in the art of performance driving, enabling them to appreciate even more the handling characteristics of their cars, and help them use their full potential in absolute safety, both on the track and on the road.

The 2010 Ford Mustang, now in dealer showrooms, builds on a proud, unbroken 45-year heritage of Fast, Fun and Affordable with an all-new exterior design, available cutting-edge technology and performance enhancements pioneered on Ford’s extensive racing and special programs.

One hallmark of Mustang’s enduring popularity is the opportunity to customize this American icon. Enthusiasts who have personalized and customized Mustangs range from legends, such as Carroll Shelby, to professional drivers to hobbyists who enjoy a weekend at the track.

For those customers interested in more-aggressive performance, an optional factory-installed Track Pack is available this summer for 2010 Ford Mustang GT coupes with manual transmission. Ford Racing’s FR3 Handling Package also is available for those enthusiasts who want even more aggressive suspension tuning and can be installed in their garage or at a Ford dealer. Car and Driver magazine recently declared a 2010 Mustang equipped with a Track Pack the winner in a comparison test against the new Chevrolet Camaro and Dodge Challenger, calling the body control of the Mustang with the Track Pack “astounding.”

For decades, the Mustang has been the preeminent car in many forms of racing compiling victories and championships on road courses all over the world. In just the last few years Ford Racing’s Mustang FR500C captured the European GT4 drivers championship (2007, 2008) and the Grand-AM KONI Challenge championship (2005, 2008).

“At Ford, we always apply what we learn at the track to the street,” said Fritz Wilke, Mustang Performance/Enthusiast Manager. “The Track Pack and Ford Racing FR3 Handling Pack continue that heritage and give our performance customers great ways to have an even sportier experience in the 2010 Mustang GT coupe.”

Packaged aimed at performance enthusiasts

Both the 2010 V-6 and GT models feature improved handling, but Team Mustang wanted to create a distinctive option package aimed at performance enthusiasts. Starting with the 2010 GT manual coupe, the engineering team was able to create a package that hits the sweet spot.

The first ingredient was to add a high-performance summer tire, and the 19-inch Pirelli P Zero P255/40ZR-19 proved to be an inspired choice for improved grip. Ford’s engineering team then went to work on the underpinnings of the 2010 Mustang GT coupe, using Ford’s proven technology from the Shelby GT500 program.

The front and rear stabilizer bars from the 2009 Shelby GT500 complement the Pirelli tires and help balance the Track Pack 2010 Mustang GT coupe front to rear. The struts and shocks were retuned for the increased capability of the new tire and stabilizer bar changes. The engineering team also spent significant time at the track to ensure the Track Pack was rewarding on the track and offered a balance of spirited driving and track prowess.

The roll gradient (how much the car rolls while steering) was reduced nearly 13 percent compared with the base 2010 Mustang GT. Damping was increased by 23 percent in the front and 8 percent in the rear in the low- to mid-speed compared to the 2010 Mustang GT.

“By reducing the roll gradient, the car stays flatter in turns,” said Tom Barnes, Vehicle Engineering Manager, 2010 Mustang. “And when the car is flatter, the driver is more in command and more confident in what the car’s doing.

“Great handling comes from great control. A driver’s control of the vehicle is facilitated by information. This Track Pack communicates to the driver through the tires and suspension so well that is it easy to drive very quickly. It rewards smooth driving, while offering great capacity to cover driver error.”

Looking at all areas for improvement

In addition to the hardware changes and extensive tuning, the Ford team also took a more holistic approach to improving the Track Pack Mustang.

“Handling is not just chassis,” Barnes said. “Vehicle dynamics – how the Mustang responds under acceleration and braking – is important as well.”

The solution from the powertrain part of the equation was to use a 3.73 limited-slip axle with carbon-fiber clutch plates.

“The 3.73 axle allows for a more-responsive Mustang, especially at mid-range speeds,” Barnes said. “The carbon-fiber plates allow a very robust architecture in terms of temperature and repeated hard driving on the track.”

Performance® Friction brake pads, which better resist brake fade, are used front and rear. Both the anti-lock braking system (ABS) and AdvanceTrac were retuned to complement the advanced capabilities of the new tires and brakes. AdvanceTrac is standard on the 2010 GT coupe and can be operated in any of three modes: On, Off or Sport.

“The Track Pack covers all the bases,” Barnes said. “The new tires give the Mustang more grip, we have a more-responsive acceleration, better brake linings that are more consistent over time and the car is tied down better because of the changes to the bars and the shock tuning.”

“Track Pack has the grip, the handling and it has the ‘go.’ And it absolutely can be used as a daily driver. Track Pack offers the best of both worlds – great performance on the track or if you’re cruising down the road.”

Ford Racing’s FR3 Handling Pack features components proven out on the racetrack. Included in the pack are dampers, lowering springs, sway bars and a strut tower brace.

“The FR3 Handling Pack is derived from our extensive experience with the Ford Mustang FR500C competing in the Grand-Am KONI Challenge and FIA GT4,” said Andy Slankard, Engineering Supervisor, Ford Racing.

Enhancements from the FR3 Handling Pack include:

* Ride height lowered by more than 1 inch
* Increased spring rate by about 75 pounds to improve turn in and mid-corner performance
* Front and rear sway bars stiffened to eliminate roll
* Re-tuned dampers, increasing the compression and rebound

The Track Pack retails for $1,495 while the FR3 Handling Pack retails for $1,335.

Idle Wiesmann GT MF5 outfitted with Hamman Race Design wheels in Monaco. Stunning!

General Motors has been in talks with prospective buyers for Swedish manufacturer Saab since the beginning of the year. Sweden’s Koenigsegg, maker of some of the world’s fastest and most expensive sports cars, has struck a deal to buy loss-making Saab Automobile from General Motors.

In one of the most unlikely pairings in automotive history, the tiny sports car firm of 45 employees is expected to take over a company that employs around 3,400. GM Europe said on its website the deal, set to close by the end of the third quarter, includes an expected $600 million of financing from the European Investment Bank, which would be guaranteed by the Swedish government.

‘This is yet another significant step in the reinvention of GM and its European operations,’ said GM Europe president, Carl-Peter Forster. ‘Saab is a highly respected automotive brand with great potential. Closing this deal represents the best chance for Saab to emerge a stronger company.’

GM originally bought a 50% stake in Saab in 1989, completing the acquisition in 2000. You can learn more about Koenigsegg as we take you through a factory tour.

Official Press Release
General Motors and Koenigsegg Group AB Reach Tentative Agreement on Saab

General Motors Corp. and Koenigsegg Group AB, a consortium led by Koenigsegg Automotive AB, today confirmed the details of a memorandum of understanding for the purchase of Saab Automobile AB that secures Saab’s future.

The sale, expected to close by the end of the third quarter of this year, includes an expected $600 million funding commitment from the European Investment Bank (EIB) guaranteed by the Swedish government. Additional support is to be provided by GM and Koenigsegg Group AB to fund Saab’s operations and product program investments. This includes plans to launch several new products that are in the final stages of development. Saab had filed for reorganization under Swedish Law on Feb. 20, 2009. This tentative agreement is a key milestone for Saab to successfully emerge from its reorganization process.

“This is yet another significant step in the reinvention of GM and its European operations,” said GM Europe President, Carl-Peter Forster. “Saab is a highly respected automotive brand with great potential. Closing this deal represents the best chance for Saab to emerge a stronger company. Koenigsegg Group’s unique combination of innovation, entrepreneurial spirit and financial strength, combined with Koenigsegg’s proven ability to create world-class Swedish performance cars in a highly efficient manner, made it the right choice for Saab as well as for General Motors.”

As part of the proposed transaction, GM will continue to provide Saab with architecture and powertrain technology during a defined time period. Additionally, Saab plans to produce its next generation 9-5 models in the Saab production facility in Trollhättan, Sweden.

“The proposed agreement will enable us to maximize the brand’s potential through an exciting new product line-up with a distinctly Swedish character. Today’s announcement is great news for Saab’s current and future customers, dealers, suppliers and employees around the globe, said Jan Åke Jonsson, Managing Director of Saab Automobile AB.

The sale will be subject to customary closing conditions, including receipt of applicable regulatory, governmental and court approvals. Other terms and conditions specific to the sale are not being disclosed at this time. Deutsche Bank acted as financial advisor to General Motors Corporation.

General Motors Corp., one of the world’s largest automakers, was founded in 1908, and today manufactures cars and trucks in 34 countries. With its global headquarters in Detroit, GM employs 235,000 people in every major region of the world, and sells and services vehicles in some 140 countries. In 2008, GM sold 8.35 million cars and trucks globally under the following brands: Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, GMC, GM Daewoo, Holden, Hummer, Opel, Pontiac, Saab, Saturn, Vauxhall and Wuling. GM’s largest national market is the U.S., followed by China, Brazil, the United Kingdom, Canada, Russia and Germany. In Europe, GM sells its vehicles in over 40 markets. It operates 10 vehicle-production and assembly facilities in seven countries and employs about 50,000 people. More information on GM can be found at http://media.gmeurope.com and http://www.gmeurope.com. GM Europe executives blog at http://drivingconversations.com.To support informed discussion and fact-based reporting, GM and Opel & Vauxhall have launched a new website at http://gmeuropefactsandfiction.com.

Its no secret that Porsche’s financials have hit a bit of a “rough patch”, which is why the company would welcome any additional sources of income. The introduction of a new entry-level roadster positioned below the current Boxster model and built along the lines of the Porsche 914 of 1960s and 70s. Wolfgang Dürheimer, research and development chief at Porsche, has denied claims the company was working on such a car, German media is today reporting that it is still a possibility.

Volkswagen has developed a mid-engined platform for its Bluesport roadster concept/production version, that may be the platform we could see if a new roadster was to be produced. Porsche production manager Michael Macht said the car could be as priced as low as €33,000 to €35,000. He also explained that this would not fit in with the company’s current market position but it could if a fifth model line was added.

Although this is still purely in the realm of speculation, and optimistic at that; the move to create a new roadster does make sense for Porsche AG. Will we see an updated “poor-mans Porsche”?