SLOUGH, UK : February 8, 2010 - The 2010 Geneva International Motor Show will be the world debut of the European specification Honda CR-Z hybrid coupe. The European version features a 2+2 seating layout and an eight LED daytime running light accent under each of the headlamps.



CR-Z customers will be able to enjoy the first car to combine a hybrid system with a 6-speed manual gearbox. By combining an efficient 1.5-litre petrol engine with Honda's unique IMA parallel hybrid system, the CR-Z can offer lower emissions of all exhaust gasses, while offering an entertaining and engaging driving experience. The flexibility of the IMA parallel hybrid system means that it can be used with a manual gearbox, allowing drivers to exploit the broad spread of torque, while maintaining excellent fuel economy of just 5.0 l/100km.

To maximise driver choice and enhance the day to day drivability of the car, the CR-Z has been fitted with a 3-Mode Drive System. This unique feature allows the driver to choose between three driving modes, which alter the responses of the throttle, steering, idle stop timing, climate control and the level of assistance provided by the IMA system. In developing this new facility, Honda allows the driver to adapt the car's settings to enjoy their favourite road, maximise economy, or strike a balance between the two.

Sport buttons have become commonplace usually offering a sharper throttle response, but Honda's 3-Mode Drive System is different. The new system alters the behaviour of the hybrid drivetrain and the power steering assistance as well as the throttle mapping between the three modes.

When the CR-Z driver is away from the town or city and wanting to enjoy their drive more, they can put the car into SPORT mode. This sharpens the throttle response, changes the behaviour of the IMA hybrid system to provide more electric motor assistance, and increases the weight of the electric power steering.

Honda recognises that even the most enthusiastic driver may regularly experience heavy traffic, where maximising fuel economy is more desirable than the perfect line through a corner. In these situations ECON mode can be selected, which prioritises fuel economy in the operation of the drive by wire throttle, ECU, air conditioning and the hybrid system. For those times when spirited driving is not possible or desirable, the Eco Assist function, in conjunction with the ECON mode, allows the driver to enjoy beating their best economy score on the way to work, or in heavy traffic.

At all other times the car can be run in NORM mode, which provides a balance between performance, economy and emissions and suits most driving situations.

The ambient lighting of the speedometer is used in the same way as in the Insight to guide the driver in driving more economically and ecologically. In addition to the Eco Assist function, the CR-Z's meter lighting is linked to the 3-mode drive system. In NORM mode the speedometer is illuminated blue, with green illumination when the car is being driven in an economical manner. In ECON mode it is also blue (glowing green when driven economically) and it has a green eco flower lit alongside. When the speedometer is illuminated in a red ambient light, this indicates the CR-Z is in SPORT mode.

The CR-Z will go on sale across Europe in the middle of 2010 and prices will be announced at the Geneva motor show.


Honda CR-V

The new CR-V will appear at Geneva for the first time, with revised exterior and interior styling across the range. Diesel versions are fitted with the latest 150 PS i-DTEC engine, which is now available with an automatic gearbox. All grades of CR-V have benefitted from a suite of noise reduction measures and minor suspension revisions to further improve refinement.


Honda Range

Honda's Geneva motor show stand will also feature the FCX Clarity fuel cell electric vehicle plus the current range of Jazz, Insight, Civic, Civic Hybrid and Accord models.



[Source : HONDA]
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STUTTGART : February 8, 2010 - The engineers at Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG, Stuttgart, have developed a new top-of-the-range sports car for the customer who will only settle for the very best in terms of power, performance and driving dynamics: the 911 Turbo S. The heart of this most exclusive high-performance athlete is of course a six-cylinder boxer boosted by two exhaust gas turbochargers with variable turbine geometry, with an increase in power over the 911 Turbo by 30 to 530 bhp (390 kW). Maximum torque is a most impressive 700 Newton-metres (516 lb-ft). At the same time this new top model comes as standard with all high-tech components available only as options on the “regular” 911 Turbo.



Despite its significant increase in power and dynamic performance, the new 911 Turbo S, at 11.4 litres/100 kilometres (equal to 24.8 mpg imp), does not consume any more fuel than the Porsche 911 Turbo, making it by far the most efficient sports car in its performance class.

The 911 Turbo S comes exclusively with seven-speed Porsche-Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK) (Porsche’s Double-Clutch Gearbox) conveying drive power to Porsche Traction Management (PTM) all-wheel drive. Driving safety optimised to an even higher standard is ensured by Dynamic Engine Mounts and Porsche Torque Vectoring (PTV) including a mechanical differential lock on the rear axle. In conjunction with Launch Control on the Sport Chrono Package Turbo likewise featured as standard, 911 Turbo S accelerates from a standstill to 100 km/h in 3.3 seconds and reaches 200 km/h in 10.8 seconds

Top speed is 315 km/h or 195 mph. Extra-light and fading-resistant Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes (PCCB) provide the same outstanding performance in terms of stopping power and controlled application of the brakes.

The supreme level of standard equipment including Dynamic Bending Lights, 19-inch wheels in RS Spyder design with central locking, a three-spoke sports steering wheel with gearshift paddles, adaptive sports seats, cruise control, a CD/DVD changer and exclusive twin-tone leather upholstery in Black/Crema or Black/Titanium Blue additionally underlines the outstanding class and calibre of this first Turbo S in five years.

The new Porsche 911 Turbo S will be at the dealership as both a Coupé and Cabriolet as of May 2010. The German market price of the Turbo S Coupé is Euro 173,241 including 19 per cent value-added tax and local equipment in the market (the Euro base price is Euro 145,400). The Cabriolet retails in the German market at Euro 184.546, again including 19 per cent VAT and local equipment/specifications (base price Euro 154,900).



[Source : PORSCHE]
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Woodcliff Lake, NJ : February 6, 2010 - This spring, BMW will write the latest chapter in the story of the world's first Sports Activity Vehicle®, the BMW X5. Originally launched for the 2000 model year in late 1999, the BMW X5 permanently changed the automotive landscape. It proved that the driving dynamics, responsiveness, and linear control signature to every BMW could be compatible with utility, versatility, and other-roads capability. For 2011, the BMW X5 models are enhanced with new powertrains and updated design. The new BMW X5 will make its North American debut at the New York International Auto Show in April, and will go on sale at authorized BMW Centers shortly thereafter.


Innovative new design elements and powertrains are the result of over 4,000 new parts created by BMW designers and engineers for the 2011 BMW X5. Two of the X5's powertrains will be all-new for 2011, creating the new X5 xDrive50i and X5 xDrive35i, in addition to the familiar BMW Advanced Diesel X5 xDrive35d. All models receive a design update that enhances the brilliant focus and aesthetic appearance of the X5 brand.


Fresh Design. Well-Balanced Proportions.

The body design of the 2011 BMW X5 is characterized by well-balanced proportions that accentuate the vehicle's powerful presence and agility. A long wheelbase, short front and rear body overhangs, and large light-alloy wheels provide a visual balance between the front and rear of the vehicle. Square-shaped, carefully flared wheel arches hint at the X5's all-wheel drive traction and other-roads capability. The body lines sweep upwards from the front and rear wheels, communicating BMW's near-perfect 50-50 front-rear weight distribution which is so essential to the X5's legendary driving dynamic.

The sides of the X5 are elegantly stretched though the strong horizontal lines of each side. The surface of the hood flows seamlessly into the waiseline, while the prominent, gently inclined contour line at the door handle level extends from the front wheel arches to the rear of the vehicle. These character lines symbolize power, stability, and presence.

With its distinctively contoured hood, large BMW kidney grille and dual round headlights, the new BMW X5 boasts an expressive front end that symbolizes power and presence. The newest interpretation of the X5's look is led by the redesign of the front fascia and position of the standard foglamps. Due to an increase in the number of elements painted body color, the front end gives the impression of being lower. At the same time, the increased size of both the central and outer air intakes hint at the boosted engine output. The black trim at the bottom edge of the body is now considerably narrower. A matte-finished silver protection plate extends across the entire width of the central air intake, emphasizing the muscular features of the SAV, and accentuates the new X5's character.

The dual round Xenon Adaptive headlights and foglamps are now situated higher and closer to the kidney grille. The X5's new headlight fixtures emphasize high quality and sporting intentions. BMW's signature corona rings serve as position lights and daytime driving lights.

The newly conceived rear apron matches the graphic structure of the front end, while the intricately designed surrounds of the dual exhaust pipes are painted in body color to underline the X5's premium character. In the center, a matte-finished silver protection element emphasizes strength and durability suitable for other-roads use.
Above the rear bumper, the rear of the new X5 is divided by parallel horizontal lines. The result is an accentuation of the width, highlighting the vehicle's athletic capabilities. The L-shaped taillight fixtures, each with two LED light banks, create the BMW-signature nighttime appearance of the rear end.

A choice of new body colors provides further visual enhancements. The metallic colors Deep Sea Blue, Platinum Grey, and Sparkling Bronze are now available for the BMW X5. Inside, the available Nevada Leather can be chosen in stunning new Oyster or Cinnamon Brown colors in addition to the familiar Sand Beige, and Black, and matte Satin Silver interior trim strips are added if the owner does not select from the available Brushed Aluminum, Dark Bamboo, Light Poplar, or Burl Walnut wood trims.

X5 xDrive50i: BMW's Twin-Turbocharged V-8.

The new BMW X5 xDrive50i takes its place as the flagship of the X5 family, yielding 400 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 450 lb-ft of torque at 1,750 – 4,500 rpm from its twin-turbocharged 4.4 liter V-8 engine. Introduced in the BMW X6 in Spring of 2008, this all-aluminum V-8 features High Precision direct fuel injection, "reverse-flow" architecture for revolutionary responsiveness and packaging, and BMW' s VANOS variable valve timing technology. Together, these features create what may be the perfect balance between high fuel efficiency, low emissions, and the dominant, dynamic performance expected of a BMW V-8. The 0-60 mph sprint is accomplished in 5.3 seconds (preliminary). EPA fuel efficiency figures for the X5 xDrive50i will be available closer to the on sale date. The X5 xDrive50i starts at $59,275 including Destination & Handling.

As part of the V-8 engine's reverse-flow architecture, the twin turbochargers are situated in the valley of the engine's "V" and exhale separately into two catalytic converters which are located on top of the engine and exit aftward into the large stainless-steel exhaust system via downpipes on either side of the new 8-speed automatic transmission. The exhaust streams remain separated until they meet in the large muffler at the rear of the vehicle and exit through two large, trapezoidal exhaust tips.

X5 xDrive35i: BMW's Turbocharged Inline-6 with Valvetronic.

BMW's new X5 xDrive 35i receives a brand new inline-6 gasoline engine, internally dubbed "N55." The new engine features the same 3.0-liter displacement and 300 horsepower output of its predecessor (the "N54"), but features a single twin-scroll turbocharger in place of the previous twin, low-mass turbocharger units. Furthermore, the new inline-6 of the X5 xDrive35i is the first BMW inline-6 to combine BMW's revolutionary Valvetronic throttle-less intake technology, High Precision direct fuel injection, and turbocharging. The result of combining this new inline-6 with the new 8-speed automatic is an X5 with incredibly spontaneous responsiveness, exceptional power, and remarkable efficiency. The new X5 xDrive35i will perform the 0-60mph sprint in 6.4 seconds, coincidentally on the same pace as the outgoing V-8 powered X5 xDrive48i. EPA figures will be available closer to the on sale date.

For the 2011 model year, BMW has made the X5 xDrive35i available in two additional trim levels: "Premium" and "Sports Activity."

The essential X5 xDrive35i has an MSRP of $46,675 including Destination & Handling, and includes a popular profile of standard equipment often specified by X5 customers, including BMW's Xenon Adaptive headlights, Rain Sensor with automatic headlight control, HD Radio, automatic climate control, foglights, 18" light alloy wheels, cruise control, and anti-theft alarm system. A Convenience Package is optional and adds the large panoramic moonroof, auto-dimming mirrors, Dark Burl Walnut, Bamboo, or Light Poplar wood interior trim, BMW Ambiance Lighting, and BMW Assist with Bluetooth. Stand alone options include rear side window shades, Navigation system with Real Time Traffic Information and Voice Command, satellite radio with 1-year subscription, and an iPod / USB adapter interface.

The X5 xDrive35i Premium has an MSRP of $52,475 including Destination & Handling and includes a boosted profile of standard equipment, such as 19" light alloy wheels, roof rails and panoramic moonroof, power adjustable steering column, iPod / USB adapter interface, and privacy glass. Best of all, it includes standard Nevada Leather. In addition, buyers of the Premium model may choose up to four packages, including the Active Ventilated Seat Package, Convenience Package, Cold Weather Package, and Technology Package. Each package includes a raft of focused features that enhance comfort and convenience, allowing buyers to better customize the X5 to personal taste. Third Row seating, which enables the X5 to accommodate up to 7 passengers, also becomes available on this model.

The X5 xDrive35i Sport Activity has an MSRP of $54,975 including Destination & Handling and includes even more standard equipment than the Premium model, such as 20" light alloy wheels, sport seats, Shadowline exterior trim, and Anthracite headliner. In addition to the packages available on the Premium model, customers may add the popular M Sport Package to the X5 xDrive35i Sport Activity model. The M Sport Package includes 20" wheels with performance tires, the Adaptive Drive system, aluminum roof rails, M door sill plates, M driver footrest, M steering wheel, M aerodynamic enhancements, and increased top speed limiter (150 mph).

New 8-speed Automatic Transmission with Steptronic.

On both new gasoline models of the X5, sending the newfound power to the standard xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive system is BMW's new 8-speed automatic transmission with Steptronic control. The new 8-speed transmission is standard in the X5 xDrive50i and X5 xDrive35i, and raises the industry standard for compactness, efficiency, and gear selection. The new transmission weighs no more than its 6-speed predecessor, yet offers closer ratios in the lower gears for improved acceleration and two additional "tall" gears for relaxed, efficient cruising. BMW's 8-speed automatic was introduced on the 5 Series Gran Turismo and 760Li Sedan in the fall of 2009.

Using the console-mounted e-shifter, the X5 driver chooses from three shifting programs: Drive, Drive Sport, and Manual. In Manual mode, the driver selects from the eight forward gear ratios via the + / - action of the shifter (push forward to downshift; pull back to upshift). At any speed, Neutral is easily selected via a forward push of the selector from Drive and, when at a standstill, Park is selected by depressing the "P" button atop the shifter, or by pushing the Engine Start-Stop button (doing so will also stop the engine).

BMW's Brake Energy Regeneration system is also fitted to the gasoline X5 models. It incorporates a special deep-cycle Glass Mat battery with programmed alternator disengagement so that, most of the time, the vehicle's battery is only charged while the vehicle is coasting or braking. Over time, the Brake Energy Regeneration system can save 1-2% on fuel consumption. Brake Energy Regeneration is another feature in BMW's EfficientDynamics portfolio of small features and adjustments which have a cumulative effect on the efficiency-performance balance of each BMW vehicle.


X5 xDrive35d: Maintaining the Benchmark with BMW Advanced Diesel Technology.

The BMW Advanced Diesel X5 xDrive35d was introduced to the United States as a 2009 model, and despite increased competition remains the fastest, most fuel efficient diesel-powered vehicle in its class. The huge torque output of 425 lb-ft. at 1750-2250 rpm speaks for itself; X5 xDrive35d drivers will marvel at this engine's robust response at low to medium speeds. The peak power output of 265 hp also makes an impact, as does the resulting 0-60-mph time of 6.9 seconds. It returns EPA mileage estimates of 19 mpg city and 26 highway.


For the 2011 model, BMW has made no changes to the award-winning BMW Advanced Diesel powertrain, but rather has focused efforts to ensure the X5 xDrive35d benefits from the latest design updates to the X5 family. Despite the enhancements for the new model year, MSRP for this model remains $52,175 including Destination & Handling.

BMW Advanced Diesel with BluePerformance optimizes emission management by incorporating an oxidation catalyst placed close to the engine, a diesel particulate filter housed in the same unit, and an SCR catalyst with urea injection. Apart from filtering out even the smallest particles from the flow of exhaust gases, this combination ensures effective reduction of nitric oxides (NOX) by way of a chemical reaction within the exhaust system initiated by the injection of a small dose of urea referred to as Diesel Exhaust Fluid. Into the exhaust stream. The ammonia (NH3) generated in this process within the SCR catalyst subsequently converts the nitric oxides (NO and, respectively, NO2) in the exhaust gas into environmentally compatible nitrogen (N2) and water vapor (H2O).

BMW has developed a two-tank system for DEF ensuring convenient use of this new technology with all the benefits and ease required by the customer: The amount of DEF required in each case is drawn from the active tank comprising approximately 1.6 gallons by means of a dosage pump. And since the urea solution would freeze at a temperature of 12.2^o F (−11^oC), this active tank, as well as the dosage pipes are heated.


Driver Assistance Features, Options, and Accessories.

BMW has made the X5 Sports Activity Vehicle a hallmark for drivers who wish to personalize their ride. Therefore, an excellent selection of optional features has been available since the original X5 was launched in the 2000 model year. Active Cruise Control with Stop and Go becomes available for the first time on the X5 in the 2011 model year, as does Lane Departure Warning. Active Steering, running boards, Head-Up Display, 4-zone automatic climate control, rear seat entertainment system, side-view cameras, top-view camera, Nappa Leather seats, Nappa Leather-covered dashboard and center console, Comfort Access with keyless entry, and smartphone integration are just a few of the available options.





[Source : BMW]
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• Limited Super-GT of the small series manufacturer Carlsson
• Edition includes only 25 cars and therefore ensures maximum exclusiveness
• Carlsson combines top performance with drivability
• Carlsson develops entirely own design vocabulary

Carlsson who are approved as an automobile manufacturer by the Federal German Motor Transport Authority, for the first time presents an own developed automobile at this year’s Geneva Motor Show – the Carlsson C25. The concept of this Super-GT is based on the vision of combining maximum driving performance with an entirely new design and high exclusiveness. The result is a breathtaking and beautiful sports coupé with 753 hp in a limited edition of only 25 cars world-wide. Thereby, each automobile will be as individual as its future owner. “We exclusively make the cars to order and the delivery quantity for 2010 is already sold out”, says CEO, Dipl. Ing. (FH) Markus Schuster.



With 753 hp and 1150 Newton metres in 3.7 seconds from 0 to 100 km/h

The performance data of the six litre V12 Bi-Turbo is impressive. The high-performance aggregate with a motor management optimisation patented by Carlsson renders 753 hp (554 kW) and allows fast acceleration as well as smooth travels at lower speeds. Also responsible for the perfect performance evolvement is the elaborately developed stainless steel exhaust system with ends in four edgy pipes at the back. The power catapults the C25 with a torque of 1320 Newton metres at 3750 r.p.m. which is electronically limited to 1,150 Newton metres from 0 to 100 km/h in only 3.7 seconds and achieves a maximum speed of 352 km/h.


Perfect combination between top performance and maximum driveability

When developing the Carlsson C25, the engineers from Gut Wiesenhof have achieved creating a Super-GT for smooth everyday use despite its very high performance. “There are more than enough super sports car in this world which can only be safely driven on a race track”, says Markus Schuster. “Therefore, we deliberately wanted to develop a car which is highly exclusive on the one hand and can be used for the daily journey to office on the other hand. Therefore, a Super-GT which can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in only 3.7 seconds and still offers a very pleasant driving comfort. All security-relevant regulations such as pedestrian protection, crash behaviour, ESP, ABS, Airbag systems are identical to large series editions with most modern standards.”

This is also achieved by the intelligent lowering system C-Tronic^® SUSPENSION^® which automatically recognises the road characteristics and driving manners and constantly adjusts the suspension setting accordingly. This does not only result in a pleasant journey on long routes, but also guarantees that the nodding and rolling motions of the C25 are reduced to a minimum while driving fast curves. Therefore, the car reaches the perfect road holding characteristics in every situation and renders the feeling of absolute controllability.

Different than other automobiles from small series, the Carlsson C25 has not been solely made for its use at the racetrack. Nevertheless, the C25 achieves top results in acceleration and handling. Compared to the racing machines with MOT approval, the Carlsson C25 offers its driver smooth journeys on Alpine passes and also on city roads or not perfectly even surfaces.


Maximum exclusiveness is ensured by only one automobile per country

In addition to the extensive refinement, the Carlsson C25 offers the advantage that every Mercedes-Benz dealer can maintain the car. As the automobile is based on the latest Mercedes-Benz technology, it is not necessary to drive to a garage, which is specialised in the Carlsson C25. This gives the Carlsson C25 additional suitability for everyday use. Moreover, Carlsson will only deliver one automobile per country and therefore ensures absolute exclusiveness for its customers.

Carlsson creates a perfect symbiosis of design and function

The C25 emphasises this exquisite status with its self-reliant and unique design. The elongated vehicle front with the tapered lobe between the powerful shoulders craves ahead and the generously dimensioned air inlets in the typical Carlsson trapezoid form supply the engine with the necessary ventilation. The ultra-light and forged wheels 1/10 UL in the dimensions 9,5x20 and 12x20 inches have been especially designed for the C25 and are equipped with high performance tyres measuring 265/30 at the front and 325/25 at the rear live axle.

One wheel just weighs 11.2 kilograms and therefore is 40 percent lighter than custom light alloy wheels. Ventilation ducts in front and behind the wheel houses provide the Carlsson brake system with 405 millimetres large slotted race brake discs at the front and 380 millimetre race brake discs at the rear axle with cool air. With this, Carlsson achieves the perfect symbiosis between design and function. The elongated flat rear screen and the restrained tearing edge on the boot lit as well as the generously dimensioned double diffuser render the required downthrust and therefore the C25 does not need any extensible spoilers. In order to emphasise the uniqueness of the C25, Carlsson has also developed a new rear- and front lights design.

Carlsson interior optimised for the driver

The newly designed interior resembles the exterior as far as shape, colour and functionality are concerned. The characteristic trapezoid elements at the front and back are also found on the steering wheel. On the seats and the centre console the edged shape is used as well. The instruments clearly turn towards the driver, indicate the performance capability of the C25 and increase the ergonomics.

The generous use of real carbon, tanned buffalo leather and ultra-suede in special colours provides an evenly exclusive and user-friendly ambience. For driveability reasons, Carlsson deliberately refrains from race seats, race straps, rollover devices and extreme lowering.
With the C25, Carlsson confirms its reputation as being one of the most exclusive automobile manufacturers in the world. High technical competence, many years experience in automobile construction, an advanced sense for design and elegance and German art of engineering make the Carlsson C25 unique all over the world.

[Source : CARLSSON]
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WALD International, Japanese car tuning specialist has released the aero-kit for the facelift 2010 Lexus LS460.


WALD has presented the aero-kit at the 2010 Tokyo Auto Salon that featured with blacked front grille with chrome border, bumper with sportier lid, new side skirt, new roof and trunk lid spoiler rear diffuser and 21" Mahora or Portofina Multi pieces alloy wheels.

The aero-kit is also available at WALD dealers in Japan.



[Source : WALD International]
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ROVIO, Switzerland : February 5, 2010 - LAMPO² is an electric demonstration sports car conceived by Protoscar, a Swiss company which has been developing CleanCar projects for 23 years including consulting of OEMs, power utilities and governments. The LAMPO² boasts “quick-charging” capability (up to 100 km range extension in just 10 minutes charging time) and will be presented at the Geneva Motor Show (2nd March 2010) on the e'mobile stand Nr. 5141.



LAMPO² is an even more energy efficient successor to the LAMPO demonstration vehicle presented in 2009. Weight, aerodynamics and the efficiency of individual components of the BRUSA drive train have been further optimized in order to reach a world-class energy consumption of less than 100Wh/km-ton under real conditions.

LAMPO² is equipped with 4 different charging modes:

• standard single-phase with up to 3,3kW on board charger for typical overnight home-charge,
• “control-pilot” equipped and (EDF provided) PLC single-phase with 6,6kW on board charger typical for public charging,
• standard three-phase 9,9kW on board charger typical for charging at industrial plugs (fleet-owners) and
• an interface for DC fast charging (able to transmit a max. power of 80kW), where up to 100km of additional range can be charged within just 10 minutes, by an off-board system, so that the different solutions can be compared in terms of usability and efficiency by being demonstrated in real conditions.

LAMPO² will be shown together with different charging infrastructure solutions: a smart home charge device (developed with ALPIQ), the public charging station E-TOTEM and the quick-charging station (developed with ABB and Brusa).

LAMPO² impressively demonstrates that electric drive-trains are mature and perform sufficiently well to be a solution for all types of vehicles, not just city cars. This includes premium cars, the segment through which most new technologies have successfully been introduced into the market.

Together with the first LAMPO (which has already been driven over 10’000 km on race tracks and public roads across Europe), LAMPO² will be used for practical demonstrations and testing. Protoscar has repeatedly been encouraged to develop an advanced electric cabriolet for small-scale production and plans to use the LAMPO² to evaluate this possibility. The evaluation will include discussions with potential industrial and financial partners, and an assessment of the preferences and desires of potential clients.

In addition to BRUSA, which supplies the components of the whole drive train, the main partners and sponsors of the LAMPO² project are ALPIQ (the leading Swiss company in power generation and distribution, which is actively promoting the goal of 15% of electric vehicles in Switzerland by 2020), the German Fraunhofer Institute IAO (EV-specific features and MMI, as well as optimization of the ergonomics), ABB (DC fast-charging technology) and the Swiss Federal Office of Energy.

Technical details

LAMPO² has two electric motors (allowing it to operate as a four-wheel drive with variable torque between front and rear axle for optimal handling, safety and efficiency) with a total output of 300 kW (equivalent to 408 HP), 640 Nm (over 50% more than its predecessor!) and over 30 kWh of Lithium-Ion battery capacity. LAMPO² features real sports-car
performances: 5 seconds to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h, 200 km/h of max. speed and a range of over 200 km. More than enough energy for driving is produced by a remote solar
plant which is installed on the roof of a farm in Tuscany, allowing a real zero-emission drive on a “Well-to-Wheel” basis.





[Source : PROTOSCAR]
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SINDELFINGEN, Germany : February 05, 2010 - The smart fortwo cdi is maintaining its top position among the most environmentally friendly cars with a combustion engine. The smart fortwo cdi now emits just 86 g/km of CO₂ – less than all its competitors.


A high level of environmental friendliness is an innate characteristic of the successful smart fortwo cult car. The diesel model - the smart fortwo cdi - always underlined this claim with carbon dioxide emissions of just 88 grams per kilometre, the lowest figure worldwide for cars with a combustion engine. Now the smart fortwo is setting a new record with emissions of just 86 g/km or consumption of 3.3 litres of diesel per 100 kilometres in the manual “softip” mode which means that it keeps its title of CO₂ champion.

The smart engineers have been able to improve the smart fortwo cdi's fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions in the course of continuous further development. The measures included an improvement in the vehicle’s aerodynamics. A reduction in ride height by seven millimetres, for example, resulted in improved rolling resistance characteristics.

Marc Langenbrinck, Managing Director of the smart brand says: "We continue to work hard to make our smart models even more environmentally friendly. The smart fortwo cdi - the past and the present CO₂ champion - is proof of this. And the next level of sustainable drives is ready to go: the smart fortwo electric drive has already been proving itself in everyday use in London for three years. Series production of 1000 vehicles started in November 2009. From 2012 the dream of motoring with no local emissions will become a reality for everyone. Lots of people are talking about electric drive - but we already have it on the road. This confirms smart's role as a trendsetter - ten years ago as the first true city car and now among electric vehicles. With its fleet smart has an excellent position with regard to corporate average CO₂ emissions."

[Source : DAIMLER-smart]
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MILTON KEYNES, UK : February 5, 2010 - Just over 40 years ago a motoring icon was born. As the sixties moved into the 1970s, the Datsun 240Z was launched on the US market. American drivers instantly fell in love with the car and sales in that one market alone regularly topped 50,000 units annually. The Z legend had begun.



Now four decades, six generations and well over a million cars later, Nissan is introducing a special celebratory version of the newest two-seater to wear the famous Z badge – the 370Z.

The 370Z Black Edition marks the 40th anniversary in style. Available from April as a coupé only, and in a limited edition run of just 370 units in Europe, it comes in two distinctive metallic shades: black and quartz. Both paints use Nissan’s pioneering Scratch Shield technology, ’healing’ the finish in the case of stone chip damage.


Inside the 370Z Black edition there are:

• Unique red leather & suede appointed interior (seats & door trim) with embossed 40th Anniversary logo seats
• Smooth leather wrapped steering wheel with red stitching
• Red stitching on the centre cluster, centre console and knee pads
• Nissan’s Connect Premium state-of-the-art combined touch-screen satellite navigation and audio system with USB connectivity

The exterior of the 370Z Black can be identified thanks to:

• Dark grey 19” aluminium forged RAYS wheels
• Eye-catching red brake callipers
• 40th Anniversary emblem on the back door

Standard specification means it already has a bespoke BOSE premium audio system, 19-inch forged alloy wheels, Stop/Start button with Nissan’s Intelligent Key and a sporting six speed manual transmission with unique Synchro Rev Control technology. The electronically controlled rev matching system ensures perfect ‘heel and toe’ gear changes every time. A seven-speed automatic version with column-mounted paddle shifts is available as an option.

The Black Edition comes as standard with Nissan’s next generation combined audio and navigation system, offering improved ease-of-operation, new and updated features.

At its heart is a high performance Hard Disk Drive (HDD) navigation system that offers customer audio storage capacity of 9.3GB.

Among the many benefits are vastly extended mapping which now includes Turkey, Eastern Europe and Russia, as well as a new easy to follow 3D navigation guidance with improved graphics and a more realistic depiction of the road and landmarks ahead for many of Europe’s principle cities. The resolution of the new 7 inch screen is up to four times better than the previous generation system.

Real time traffic information is supplied via RDS-TMC, but quicker operation allows the system to offer re-routing in a fraction of the time.

The new generation system uses a touch-screen interface, maximising both ease of use and safety not only for the navigation, but also for other functions such as Bluetooth phone connectivity and entertainment. It is also possible to operate the system using voice recognition.

On-screen instructions can be displayed in eight different languages including English, French, German, Spanish and Italian - while voice recognition is supported in seven – English, French, German, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese and Dutch.

The new generation navigation system also allows USB connectivity for portable audio devices. Furthermore, DVDs can be played on the centrally mounted navigation screen (when the car is stationary), while external audio and video devices can be connected via the VTR connections that are found in the central storage box.

In terms of its mechanical specification, the Black Edition matches the standard 370Z. That means a 3.7-litre 24-valve twin cam V6 developing 328PS and a limited top speed of 155mph and a 0-62 mph time of 5.3 seconds (5.6 seconds for the automatic version). The 2010 model year update means the 370Z is now fully compliant with forthcoming Euro 5 emission legislation.

Exemplary levels of handling and grip are assured by the focused rear-wheel drive chassis which features fully independent suspension, powerful upgraded brakes and precise speed sensitive power steering.

Since its launch in June 2009, more than 1,050 examples of the 370Z have been sold across Europe, an exceptional achievement for a niche product in extremely challenging market conditions. The car’s largest market to date has been the UK, followed by France and Germany.

“The ‘story of Z’ is full of positives, with success not just in the sales charts all over the world but on racetracks and at award ceremonies, too. The 370Z Black Edition is a fitting tribute to a great car,” said Vincent Wijnen, Nissan’s European Vice President for Marketing.

Customers can order the 370Z Black Edition from all Nissan High Performance Centres and throughout the dealer network with deliveries starting in April.

Prices start from - £33,645 for the manual and £35,045 for the automatic transmission (prices include £750 showroom tax which comes into effect on 1 April 2010).



[Source : NISSAN]
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BOULOGNE BILLANCOURT CEDEX : February 5, 2010 - New Mégane Coupé-Cabriolet rounds off the renewal of the New Mégane family in style with introduction of the line-up's sixth body type. The newcomer's striking looks combine the elegance of a coupé with the promise of the thrills that go hand-in-hand with driving a cabriolet.



New Mégane Coupé-Cabriolet builds on the strengths that forged the success of its predecessor – including a large, folding glass roof and a raft of user-friendly equipment – yet it goes further still by offering customers:

• unruffled open-top motoring thanks to the forward position of the windscreen and a fixed glass wind deflector situated behind the rear head restraints,
• outstanding handling performance thanks to a stiffer chassis and a new electric power steering system,
• a broad choice of engines, including one which can be ordered with the all-new automatic EDC (Efficient Dual Clutch) transmission.
• careful attention to quality, including high-gloss black and satin-effect chrome exterior features.

New Mégane Coupé-Cabriolet is manufactured alongside Scénic and Grand Scénic at Renault's Douai plant in France. It consequently benefits from the experience gained since the beginning of the Mégane programme, including the assembly of the former-generation Mégane Coupé-Cabriolet.

New Mégane Coupé-Cabriolet is an open invitation to enjoy an alternative way to go motoring, and is an elegant illustration of Renault's new brand signature, 'Drive the Change'.

New Renault Mégane Coupé-Cabriolet goes on sale in the spring of 2010.


ARRESTING LOOKS FROM EVERY ANGLE

Renault Mégane Coupé-Cabriolet completes the renewal of the Mégane family in style with a car whose intrinsic appeal is sure to turn heads.

Its looks exude a distinguished elegance that is underpinned by the large glass roof which tells you that this is unmistakably a cabriolet, even in its coupé configuration. This high-gloss finish black glass roof contrasts with the satin-effect chrome windscreen frame, while the sweep of the waistline adds an unmistakably high-end feel that more than does justice to its cabriolet persona. The dark red taillights feature a linear lighting pattern and LED brake lights to provide a distinctive rear lighting signature.

The interior layout carries over the same prevailing elegance and refinement, thanks not only to the quality of the materials employed and to the high standard of finish, but also to the three choices of trim, which range from dark charcoal and light beige to the charcoal and red two-tone finish with leather seats.

Although the floating dashboard is identical to that of Renault Mégane Hatchback, the seats offer additional lateral support, while the 'butterfly wing' door trim panel is specific to Renault Mégane Coupé-Cabriolet and adds to the newcomer's inherent elegance.

CHIC AND PRACTICAL

Renault Mégane Coupé-Cabriolet's occupants benefit from the thrills of unruffled open-top motoring in all conditions.

The standard folding glass hard roof boasts a transparent glazed area of 0.47 sq. metres (a segment best) to ensure a brightly lit cabin and a sensation of space and freedom. It also guarantees outstanding acoustic and thermal comfort, as well as the reassurance of greater protection from vandalism. The fully-automatic, electro-hydraulic opening mechanism of the two-part roof enables the driver to lower the top in just 21 seconds at the press of a button.

With the top down, the driver and passengers alike enjoy a real sense of freedom. Entry and exit is made easier by the more forward position of the windscreen header-rail which has been advanced by 6cm compared with Renault Mégane II Coupé-Cabriolet.

To make sure that all occupants are able to benefit from the pleasure of riding al fresco without the drawbacks, Renault Mégane Coupé-Cabriolet is equipped with a fixed glass wind deflector (unique in the segment) positioned behind the back seat headrests. This arrangement enables four people to enjoy draft-free driving at speeds of up to 90kph and, when used in conjunction with the removable mesh deflector screen located behind the front seats, allows two occupants to travel free from buffeting whatever the speed.

New Renault Mégane Coupé-Cabriolet's length of 4,485mm ensures that the driver and the three passengers benefit from a standard of comfort expected of a family car.

The driver is treated to a carefully thought-through environment and conveniently positioned controls which carry over solutions previously employed for Renault Mégane Hatchback and Mégane Coupé:

• controls clustered either around the steering wheel or on the centre console,
• height- and fore/aft-adjustable driver's seat (through 70mm and 240mm respectively),
• position memory for front seats, after being tipped forward,
• reach and height-adjustable steering wheel (through 45mm and five degrees respectively).

In addition to Renault Mégane Coupé-Cabriolet's carefully-honed lines, special attention has gone into ensuring that it is a practical package, too, and that includes the boot:

• automatic closing for simple, secure locking,
• large capacity (417 litres with the roof up, and 211 litres with the roof down),
• easy to access, with a segment-best sill height (590mm from the ground) and aperture (258mm) with the roof down, enabling three cabin cases to be carried side by side.

A RAFT OF PRACTICAL, USER-FRIENDLY HIGH-TECH FEATURES

Like all the models that make up the Mégane family, Renault Mégane Coupé-Cabriolet is available with a long list of high-tech features, most of which are more readily associated with the next segment up:

• hands-free starting, and hands-free locking as the card-holder walks away from the car,
• electric parking brake,
• automatic dual-zone three-mode (soft-auto-fast) climate control,
• directional bi-Xenon headlamps,
• combined digital/analogue instrument display,
• new, colour-coded cruise control/speed limiter interface,
• 3D sound by Arkamys^® audio with Plug&Music connectivity (USB, mini-jack plug),
• Carminat TomTom^® navigation, the market's most competitively priced built-in sat-nav system,
• customized settings and activation/deactivation of certain functions (daytime running lights, volume of audible parking proximity warning).

A PERFECTLY SMOOTH RIDE

New Renault Mégane Coupé-Cabriolet delivers the same high standard of driving precision as Mégane Hatchback and Mégane Coupé to provide an enjoyable, responsive ride:

• The MacPherson-type front suspension is attached to a so-called 'horned' subframe, an arrangement that ensures a level of lateral rigidity that is three-times superior to that of the former-generation Megan Coupé-Cabriolet.
• The rear suspension's torsion beam features a lighter, closed-profile beam that delivers enhanced torsional stiffness.
• The new electric power steering system is more responsive and refined, and gives even more accurate feedback of information from the road.

The torsional rigidity of the bodyshell has been uprated by 80 per cent compared with Renault Mégane II Coupé-Cabriolet in order to match the increased stiffness of the suspension and for even greater handling precision, whether the roof is up or down.

New Renault Mégane Coupé-Cabriolet is available with a choice of seven efficient and eco-friendly petrol and diesel powertrain configurations.

Petrol engines:

• The 1.6 16V 110hp engine mated to a six-speed manual gearbox.
• The TCe 130 (Turbo Control efficiency) driving through a six-speed manual gearbox.
• The 2.0 16V 140hp engine available with the new continuously variable transmission (CVT) for even greater driving comfort thanks to smooth, step-less gearshifts.

The diesel engine range comprises the following Euro5-homologated powerplants:

• The dCi 110 DPF, mated either to the brand new six-speed EDC (Efficient Dual Clutch) dualclutch automatic transmission or to a manual six-speed gearbox.
• The dCi 130 DPF which drives through a six-speed manual gearbox.
• The dCi 160 DPF also with a six-speed manual gearbox.

EDC (Efficient Dual Clutch) dual-clutch automatic transmission

The six-speed EDC (Efficient Dual Clutch) dual-clutch automatic transmission fits perfectly with Renault's bid to combine ride comfort, driving pleasure and respect for the environment. Based on DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission) technology, it stands out as a genuine clean-break solution compared with conventional automatic transmissions thanks to:

• CO₂ emissions and fuel consumption comparable to those of a vehicle equipped with a manual gearbox,
• fast, smooth, automatic gearshifts,
• instant response to the driver's demands.

THE PLEASURE OF OPEN-TOP MOTORING IN TOTAL SAFETY

When it comes to safety, new Renault Mégane Coupé-Cabriolet reaps the benefits of the brand's extensive expertise in this field. Like all the models that make up the Mégane range, it has been engineered to boast exemplary passive and active safety performance.

An extensive range of equipment is available to help drivers anticipate risk situations:

• front seatbelt warning lights,
• tyre pressure monitoring system,
• directional bi-Xenon headlamps with cornering dipped beams,
• automatic headlamp activation,
• automatic windscreen wiper activation,
• cruise control with speed limiter.

New Renault Mégane Coupé-Cabriolet comes with a comprehensive range of driving aids, too:

• ABS with electronic brakeforce distribution,
• Emergency brake assist,
• ESC with understeer control.

New Renault Mégane Coupé-Cabriolet's chief passive safety features are:

• programmed structural deformation designed to protect the cabin - and therefore occupants - in the case of a rollover, thanks to reinforcement of the windscreen pillars, body sides, sills and floor,
• automatic pyrotechnic deployment of the rollover hoops should dedicated sensors detect that a rollover is imminent,
• seatbelt pretensioners and load limiters,
• adaptive frontal airbags,
• dual-volume head/thorax/pelvis lateral airbags,
• anti-submarining airbags incorporated in the front seat cushions,
• side impact sensors,
• anti-whiplash head restraints,
• Isofix child seat anchorage for rear seats.

[Source : RENAULT]
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• US$500-million investment by Ford in Chennai includes 40,000-square-metre state-of-the-art engine manufacturing facility. New plant to increase engine output substantially.
• Both diesel and petrol engines will be produced at Ford facility for domestic and export markets on new flexible manufacturing line.
• New 1.2L Duratec engine to be dedicated solely for Indian Figo; 1.4L Duratorq to be built alongside simultaneously.

CHENNAI, India : February 5, 2010 – With a capacity of 250,000 engines a year, Chennai stands poised to become a major hub for the export of both diesel and petrol engines in the next decade.



The new engine plant is more than 40,000 square metres and will quadruple production capacity of the engine manufacturing facility. Currently, a single production line produces approximately 60,000 diesel engines a year.

Part of Ford Motor Company's US$500-million investment at the Maraimalai Nagar site, the new engine plant is designed to meet the growing needs of the Indian vehicle market and is an advanced manufacturing centre that has been created with the world's best practices for engine manufacturing.
"This engine plant was created with a 'best of the best' approach," said Michael Boneham, president and managing director, Ford India. "We benchmarked against other competitive facilities globally, as well as the current volume manufacturers in India, for quality and production efficiency."

Initially, the plant will focus on the assembly of both the common rail 1.4L diesel engine and the new 1.2L petrol engine. Both engines, along with locally-sourced Ford IB5 transmissions, will be fitted in the new Ford Figo that will be produced at the plant starting in the first quarter of 2010.

The new 1.2L engine has been specifically designed for the Indian market with emphasis on fuel efficiency. The engine was engineered to run on 88 RON fuel, an important consideration for the Indian market and one that meets the Bharat IV emission standards, along with complying to the latest Euro 4 requirements for export markets.

The 1.2L engine is based on the family of Ford SIGMA engines and is one of ten types of engines the plant is capable of producing. Displacement for the SIGMA engines range up to 1.6L, available with five-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmissions. Among the first export markets to receive the SIGMA 1.4L and 1.6L engines are countries in the ASEAN region.

The 1.4L diesel engine that currently is produced at the facility will continue production at the plant with increasing volumes.

While the plant has been continually producing diesel engines, the new line is completely flexible and will have the ability to handle both diesel and petrol engines simultaneously, depending on market demand and production requirements.

Production of the engines begins with raw castings of the blocks, cylinder heads and crankshafts arriving from Indian and international suppliers for final machining at the facility. The machine shop encompasses more than 16,000 square metres and will include a fully-flexible, four-axis CNC machining centre for the cylinder head, block and crankshaft lines with a central coolant facility.

Crankshafts for both the diesel and petrol engines are machined with a fully-automated Gantry loading system. Both forged (diesel) and cast (petrol) engine crankshafts will be machined at the new facility.

Following final machining, the inspection process for major components will be measured through state-of-the-art Coordinated Measuring Machines. Quality checks for best-in-class metal purity also will be inspected at on-site labs prior to assembly operations.

The new engine assembly line stretches approximately 900 metres and nearly 37 percent is fully or semi-automated. Additionally, the new flexible line is set up to produce all engine variants including 1.2L, 1.4L and 1.6L in both petrol and diesel, with a continuous mixed flow that doesn't require the engines to be bundled or batch built.

Best practices, including automation in certain assembly operations, have been adopted from Ford's global operations throughout the facility. In critical areas, including piston and camshaft installation, operations are performed manually by highly-skilled technicians. Nearly 52 percent of the parts for the engines, including piston, rings and connecting rods, are kitted prior to installation to help facilitate ease of installation at the operator level. With the expansion, Ford India has created close to 700 new jobs in the engine plant.

Seventy-nine percent of the diesel engine parts and 60 percent of the petrol engine components are produced locally in India. Like the assembly operation for vehicles in Chennai, engine component manufacturers and suppliers are conveniently located nearby for better logistics.

While the Indian consumer will be able to choose either the 1.4L Duratorq TDCi diesel or 1.2L Duratec petrol engines for the Figo, both engines will be equipped with Ford's IB5 manual transmission for the Indian market. Export engines will be produced for either the manual or Ford's new six-speed automatic transmission.

To help reduce shipping weights, export engines will be shipped minus the transmission. Local assembly plants will complete final assembly by adding the transmission as required by market demand, demonstrating growing supplier capabilities.

As part of the plant's continual efforts at 100 percent quality, four engine dynamometers are located on-site at the Chennai facilities. Production engines are regularly audited from the assembly line and thoroughly tested on the dynamometers to ensure that quality, performance and durability standards are met. Production validation tests are conducted on all engine variations in these facilities to meet standards that are equivalent to 200,000 kilometres. On-road durability and endurance testing in dusty and rough road conditions, as well as high-idle city driving, also is evaluated.

Every assembled engine is subjected to a battery of highly sophisticated cold tests including pre-injection for fuel injectors, sensor connectivity, fuel rail leakage, oil pressure and camshaft positioning. To meet global quality standards, simulated Noise Vibration Harshness (NVH) testing is conducted.

Under normal operations, one engine per 500 is inspected. On new engines, including the 1.2L that will be standard equipment on the new Ford Figo, engineers have been testing at increased frequency, followed by a complete teardown to measure wear patterns and any irregularities in the new engines. Quality issues are addressed immediately with changes implemented prior to further production.

Quality levels at the engine plant are expected to reach even higher levels with the new global Class 8 ISO processes and practices put in place that ensure minimal dust and particulate levels are maintained throughout the plant.

The new 1.2L petrol engine will be produced initially in India for Figo and will be a worthy first addition to the family of SIGMA engines.

Export of the engines to additional markets within the Asia Pacific and Africa region is expected to begin in 2011.



[Source : FORD]
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DETROIT : February 4, 2010 - The Chevrolet Tahoe Police 2WD vehicle was found to have the lowest lifecycle cost in the law enforcement market by Vincentric, a company specializing in the area of automobile lifecycle analysis. Vincentric recently released their 2010 law enforcement vehicle market analysis that measured 20 mileage/lifecycle timeframes and the Tahoe Police 2WD enjoyed the lowest lifecycle cost in the majority of scenarios.



The lifecycle computation analysis evaluated seven factors: depreciation expense, fuel costs, finance costs, opportunity costs, maintenance costs, repair costs, and insurance costs. When these seven factors were analyzed for 2010 police models of the Chevrolet Tahoe 2WD, Chevrolet Impala, Ford Crown Victoria, and Dodge Charger, it was the Chevrolet Tahoe that came out on top due to its strong residual value.

In addition to the lowest lifecycle costs in the law enforcement market, the Chevy Tahoe offers extensive functionality. A wide range of applications valued by law enforcement agencies are available including HAZMAT, K9, medical, and tactical operations, with both police and special service packages.

“We are proud our vehicles performed so well in Vincentric’s lifecycle cost analysis,” commented Joyce Mattman, Product Director, Fleet and Commercial Operations. “The low lifecycle costs of the Tahoe and Impala police vehicles offer our customers great value in this economic climate.”

Lifecycle cost analysis allows government agencies to more effectively compare the cost to own and operate law enforcement vehicles. The data provided facilitates a better informed decision about which vehicles provide the combination of features essential to their operations versus the overall lifecycle costs.

’Our intent with any of our fleet lifecycle cost analyses is to provide guidance to all types of fleet buyers, including small businesses, large commercial fleets and police and other government organizations,” stated David Wurster, President of Vincentric. “By looking at as many different mileage/lifecycle timeframe scenarios as possible, we’re able to account for a wide variety of driving and ownership patterns and provide an independent, solid foundation for accurately evaluating the lifecycle costs of fleet vehicles.”

Across all scenarios in the study, the Chevrolet police vehicles’ costs were lower than those of the Ford Crown Victoria and Dodge Charger. Not only did the Chevrolet brand dominate the police market in this study, many General Motors vehicles have also won Vincentric’s Best Fleet Value in America™ awards throughout the years.



[Source : GM-Chevrolet]
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KEMPTEN : February 4, 2010 - For the car industry spring traditionally starts with the Geneva Motor Show. This is because nowhere sets the stage for extravagant vehicles better than in the halls near Lake Geneva. The public here is particularly interested, and the ambience exudes pure flair.


For this reason ABT Sportsline will be showing off its most important creations of 2010 in Switzerland – thereby heralding in the new model year. “I can say with pride that it is worth a visit, as we have put together extraordinary, innovative and classy cars,” states Hans-Jürgen Abt, the General Manager of the leading worldwide tuner of vehicles from the Volkswagen group.

This statement is no exaggeration, as the Bavarian company will be presenting special creations in Geneva, which perfectly exhibit their know-how regarding the latest technology and expressive design. Details about the new models will only be disclosed at the trade fair, but the sheer naming of the vehicles is enough to make the heart skip a beat: for example, ABT Sportsline will be the first tuner to present its version of the new Audi A8 at the Motor Show, the ABT AS8. Alongside the elegant-dynamic luxury limousine a real sports car dream also awaits visitors – the ABT R8 GTR.

Even when motionless this model athlete from Kempten shows how it goes about things on the road. This sporting spirit is also embodied by the new ABT Golf R. With this vehicle ABT is continuing the rich tradition of “Uber-Golfs” which started with the first GTI. Just in time for the start of spring, the German tuner is also showing off one more clear highlight: the ABT R8 Spyder stands for fresh-air experience with an edge, as this car is of course not just a "high-end roadster", but also a real super sports car. The four show highlights of ABT Sportsline are linked by their perfection in detail and their impressive, beautiful and dynamic design. The cars are being presented on the newest rim creation of ABT Sportsline, the ABT CR.

[Source : ABT Sportline]
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