2011 Holden VE II Commodore SSV images

2011 Holden VE II Commodore SSV

2011 Holden VE II Commodore SSV

Flex-Fuel EngineTechnology

In an Australian first, all Series II models powered by Holden's 3.0 Litre SIDI V6 and 6.0 Litre V8 engines will have flex-fuel capability, allowing them to run on bio-ethanol, E10, Unleaded, Premium or any combination in between.

Bio-ethanol is a cleaner-burning energy source comprising ethanol and petrol. Bio-ethanol significantly reduces CO2 emissions and enhances vehicle performance.

In Australia, bio-ethanol is currently produced from waste streams created by the industrial production of wheat and sugar. None of these resources would otherwise be used for food production.

To ensure availability of the fuel for Series II vehicles, Holden has entered an alliance with Australia's leading fuel retailer, Caltex which has committed to selling the fuel under the Bio EFlex brand name.

Caltex will have Bio E-Flex available in 31 service stations in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Adelaide and Canberra by the end of October, increasing to 100 metropolitan and regional locations in 2011.

Holden is also investigating the viability of establishing Australia's first second-generation ethanol plant, as part of a consortium including the Victorian Government, Caltex, Veolia, Mitsui and Coskata.

The plant could be capable of turning materials such as household rubbish and building waste into more than 200 million litres of ethanol a year.

Holden's leadership in alternative fuels in Australia is part of GM's global sustainability and energy diversity strategy. In the US, GM is the leading producer of flex-fuel vehicles with more than 3.5 million E85-capable GM cars on the road.

Although fuel consumption of bio-ethanol in Series II models will be higher because ethanol contains less energy than petrol, bio-ethanol's higher octane rating means better vehicle performance. As an illustration, Holden V8 Supercars made the successful switch to E85 in 2009.

For Series Holden engineers have introduced a number hardware changes to the company's 3.0-litre SIDI V6 and 6.0-litre Gen IV V8 engines to make them flex-fuel capable.

Firstly due to lubrication differences using bio-ethanol, base engine hardware has been changed to include hardened intake, exhaust and seat valves.

A new fuel pump unit made of different materials to work with bio-ethanol has also been installed along with a flex-fuel sensor to detect the alcohol level in the fuel line and provide information to the engine control unit (ECU).The detection takes place after every refill and also continuously during driving.

Aside from hardware changes, significant calibration work has also been undertaken to meet Holden's flex-fuel needs.

Styling

The multi-award-winning VE Commodore made a strong and dramatic design statement, characterised by its classic rear wheel drive proportions and an athletic stance emphasised by striking wheel arches.

For VE Series II, designers briefed to refresh the exterior have executed a series of subtle changes, including new front fascia, grille and headlamp treatments across the range.

Berlina specification and above feature new alloy wheels and the upper decklids of the sedan models are enhanced with integrated aero lip detailing.

On the interior, Holden has continued its trend of creating unique personalities for each model. Mainstream, prestige and sports models all receive new centre stack features, mouldings, decoration and illumination colours.

Interior design work has focused on high standards of perceived quality, and creating a more 'pilot oriented' cabin integrating new features and accessories.

Readily apparent is a higher-mounted, more prominent placement of the Holden-iQ system display screen, controls and air vents.

Interior and exterior design enhancements across the range include:

2011 Holden VE II Commodore SSV

2011 Holden VE II Commodore SSV

2011 Holden VE II Commodore SSV

2010 Lancia Stratos Concept pics

2010 Lancia Stratos Concept

2010 Lancia Stratos Concept

2010 Lancia Stratos Concept

The final rehearsal.

This test drive had been in planning for quite awhile: on November 18th the president of Ferrari, Luca di Montezemolo, and his chief test driver, Dario Benuzzi, took the New Stratos out on the Maranello-Fiorano circuit for the first time.

After a few swift laps, it was apparent that Luca di Montezemolo was extremely impressed by the vehicle's precision handling. Several enthusiastic exclamations of "bellissima!" and "congratulazioni!" were heard as he exited the car.

The sincerity of these compliments was further underscored when di Montezemolo made a phone call to his technical director, Roberto Fedeli, and requested his presence at the track so that he, too, could have a closer look at the New Stratos. Fedeli made a thorough inspection of the vehicle together with another technical adviser. When he'd finished, he was also full of praise - not just the perfect engineering, but the numerous details and painstaking workmanship had won over Ferrari's technical director.

In the meantime, Dario Benuzzi got behind the wheel and sped down the racing line, maneuvering the curbs and chicanes of the Ferrari circuit. He, too, was impressed by the New Stratos' razor sharp handling and extremely rigid body, and thanks to his 40 years' experience in sport and race car calibration, the Ferrari legend was also able to give some advice on how to eliminate a slight agitation of the rear axle that occurred when taking a curve at high speed. As a result, the rear wheels will get a bit more toe-in before the presentation at the Paul Ricard Circuit.

Now, in the afterglow of this extremely positive feedback from Ferrari's top ranks, the highly motivated New Stratos team begins their preparations for the presentation in Le Castellet.

The presentation.

Since the first blurry pictures of New Stratos appeared on the Internet in the summer of 2010, sports car enthusiasts and motorsport fans from around the world have been waiting impatiently for confirmation of whether the successor to the legendary Lancia Stratos really drives as impressively fast and with as much agility as appearances would suggest.

On November 29th and 30th, the time had come: Michael and Maximilian Stoschek invited a select group of journalists, designers, engineers, race and rally drivers to the premiere in Le Castellet, so they could at last experience the New Stratos live and in action. What's more, the attendees were able to do so not merely from the passenger-side racing seat, but from behind the small sports steering wheel with the Manettino switch. After a few racing-style introductory laps from WTCC driver Tiago Monteiro and Maximilian and Michael Stoschek, New Stratos novices were permitted to personally catapult the 540 hp car onto the racetrack via the 6-speed sequential gearbox.

Not surprisingly, no one passed up on this opportunity, least of all Bernard Darniche, French and European rally champion many times over, and - with 41 victories - the most successful Lancia Stratos driver of all time. He sped his legendary victory car's successor through the tight, twisty section of the Paul Ricard Circuit, just like in the old days. In an interview afterwards, Darniche left no doubt about his enthusiasm for the razor-sharp handling and seamless implementation of even the tiniest steering, brake and gas commands. Furthermore, the exceptionally high quality of workmanship for a one-off vehicle and the level of perfection to be found in every single detail, unanimously impressed the visiting press representatives.

During the dinner afterward, theory followed where practice left off: designers, suspension technicians, development engineers, project managers and, naturally, the initiators themselves, left no question about the New Stratos' development unanswered in their entertaining lectures and individual conversations. No questions, that is, except the one regarding the possibility of a limited run. However, if demand is sufficient, this question may soon have an answer as well.

The performance.

The New Stratos, like the racing version of its predecessor, has been extensively geared - down to every last detail - towards lightweight design and performance. Not surprisingly, the specification sheet was therefore extremely ambitious in this regard as well.

The low vehicle weight, the excellent balance and the precision chassis components made possible by the rigid body, were intended not only to provide an exhilarating driving experience, but to provide measurable results in the form of objective data.

As work on the New Stratos continued virtually without pause up until the presentation in Le Castellet, and weather conditions offered no opportunity for performance test runs, these will have be carried out at the next available opportunity.

We expect a power-to-weight ratio below 2.3 kg/hp with an acceleration time from 0-100 km/h of 3.3 seconds and from 0-200 km/h of 9.7 seconds. We expect top marks for braking performance and a benchmark position in the 18- and 36-meter slalom and similar handling tests.

After introducing the new rear axle ratio (crown wheel and pinion 9/45), the top speed will be reduced to 274 km/h, in order to achieve even better acceleration values.

2010 Lancia Stratos Concept

2010 Lancia Stratos Concept

2010 Citroën Survolt concept pics

2010 Citroën Survolt concept

2010 Citroën Survolt concept

2010 Citroën Survolt concept

2010 Citroën Survolt concept

Citroen Survolt Concept is the continuation of Citroen's exploration of distinctive and original electric vehicles, initiated with the Revolte concept car revealed at 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show. Citroen Survolt Concept turns received notions on their heads through its radically new vision in a consummate blend of high-fashion glamour and extravagance with motor-racing punch.

The desire to overcome one's limits, take things further, dare and create is written in Citroen's DNA. Breaking with convention, shaking up the rules, shifting borders and surprising continuously is the passionate quest and leitmotiv of a brand that over its 90-year history has never ceased to develop innovative objects ahead of their time. Citroen Survolt Concept is one of these. It takes the genetic material of Revolte and adds an extroverted sports dimension to the mix.

Like a luxury accessory that transcends an outfit, Survolt Concept is Citroen's answer to an automotive universe that all too often seems morose. Citroen Survolt Concept casts aside protocol and transgresses existing codes to initiate a new kind of stylish, sporty and elegant supermini. Bucking current trends and pointing to the future of sleek coupés, it unites elegance, glamour and sporting passion, sublimating this last quality with its electric drivetrain.

Innovative and sensual

With its compact dimensions - 3.85 m long, 1.87 m wide and 1.20 m high - Citroen Survolt Concept reappropriates sports car styling cues to form an all-new and revolutionary concept.

At the front, the distinctive vehicle badge reigns elegantly above the large oval-shaped grille, its centre home to the striking double chevron. The car's "look" - charming and profound at the same time - attracts and holds the viewer's gaze with a promise of transgressions suddenly made possible. Its slim, horizontal head lamps, inspired by high-performance sports coupés, exert a magnetic appeal, while an LED light signature adds a contemporary, high-tech touch.

Citroen Survolt Concept was made to gobble up the miles and glide over roads. Low-slung and sleek, it features strong contrasts between the voluptuous bonnet and generous, sculpted flanks, highlighted by emphatic wheel arches that promise performance and thrills.

Citroen Survolt Concept's air-slicing, flowing design is heavy on excitement and sensuality. It conveys agility, precision and vitality, barely containing a powerful, well-defined musculature under refined and luxurious wraps. The rear features the elegant light signature of Revolte together with a spoiler in an essential reference to motor sport.

Citroen Survolt Concept is innovative and powerful but also knows how to turn on the charm, revealing its finest assets to catwalk in motor sports arenas. It features two-tone paint, hues of fuchsia and charcoal grey, and plays with materials and volumes. The curves shift from satin-smooth to shiny, breaking definitively with the classic masculine codes of the sports world. Citroen Survolt Concept continues the work begun with Revolte by once again blending two universes with contrasting appearances. Citroen Survolt Concept eschews decorum to create its own styling language.

The inclusion of materials such as chrome and aluminium inevitably recall the spheres of luxury goods and motor sport. Citroen Survolt Concept is a perfect combination between high fashion and car racing, a unique alliance with the same philosophy and the same cues as Revolte, namely performance, cutting-edge technology and excellence.

2010 Citroën Survolt concept

2011 Renault Megane RS N4 photos

2011 Renault Megane RS N4
2011 Renault Megane RS N4 picture
2011 Renault Megane RS N4 wallpaper
2011 Renault Megane RS N4 photo
2011 Renault Megane RS N4 car
TECHNICAL SUPPORT: A TEAM THAT STANDS BY ITS CUSTOMERS

Renault Sport Technologies provides comprehensive technical support for its entire range of racing products. Every year, Renault Sport Technologies' operations engineers are present at dozens of rallies at both national and international level.

Ongoing support, including a hotline available since 2003, ensures that all customers remain in direct contact with Renault Sport Technologies' engineers, either by telephone or email. Available right from the moment the kit is received, this support service means that drivers and teams can benefit from Renault Sport Technologies' expertise and supervision while the car is being assembled. Feedback provided in this way also allows Renault Sport Technologies to gather, analyze and quickly relay any useful information to all of its customers.

An extranet site is also available, where technicians can download technical and sales documentation, technical bulletins, assembly instructions and setup sheets.

TECHNICAL DATA

* CHASSIS
o Type: Steel monocoque with welded roll cage
o Bodywork: Steel
* ENGINE
o Layout: Front transversally-mounted
o Type: Renault F4RT RS - 4 cylinders - 16 valve - 1,998cc
o Bore x stroke: 82.7 x 93 mm
o Fuel injection / ignition: Cosworth Electronics Management System
o Maximum power: 265hp from 4,000 rpm
o Maximum torque: 470 Nm @ 3,000 rpm
o Maximum revs: 6,700 rpm
* TRANSMISSION
o Type: Front-wheel drive
o Gearbox: 5-speed gearbox + reverse
o Layout: In H configuration
o Differential: ZF type, limited slip, self-locking differential
o Clutch: Hydraulically-controlled single disc
* AXLES AND SUSPENSION SYSTEMS
o Front: PerfoHub independent steering axis suspension, Öhlins double-piston shock absorbers, 3-way adjustable + hydraulic rebound
o Rear: Programmed deflection, torsion beam suspension with coil springs, Öhlins twin tube shock absorbers, 3-way adjustable + hydraulic rebound
o Discs: 355 mm ventilated discs (front) and 290 mm solid grooved discs (rear)
o Calipers: Four-piston one-piece (front) and double-piston one-piece (rear)
o Handbrake: Hydraulic
* WHEELS AND TYRES
o Rims: 8x18 one-piece aluminium wheels
o Tyres: BFGoodrich 225/40 R 18
* DIMENSIONS, WEIGHT AND CAPACITIES
o Length: 4,302mm
o Overall width: 1,848mm
o Height: 1,423mm
o Wheel base: 2,640mm
o Front tracks: 1,627mm
o Rear tracks: 1,600mm
o SCx: 0.75
o Fuel tank: 60 litres
o N4 Kit Price: 57,500 euros, £48,250

2010 Chevrolet Camaro images

2010 Chevrolet Camaro photo
2010 Chevrolet Camaro image
2010 Chevrolet Camaro
2010 Chevrolet Camaro car

new 2010 Chevrolet Camaro

The wait is over. After a seven-year hiatus, the new Chevrolet Camaro is now back in dealer showrooms.

Combining great looks, performance and advanced technology, the 2010 Camaro honors its heritage while delivering on customer expectations of a sports coupe for the 21st century.

"The new Camaro delivers a modern, advanced package of performance, comfort and technology," said Ed Peper, Chevrolet general manager and General Motors vice president. "It's a personal car for a generation of enthusiasts, both young and old, that honors the Chevrolet Camaro's heritage with a thoroughly contemporary design.

Built on the new global rear-wheel-drive passenger car platform, Chevrolet Camaro embodies GM's global vehicle development and design process. The original design concept was conceived in the United States, with engineering shared by both Australia and U.S. teams. Validation was conducted on roads throughout the world and assembly is handled by GM's award-winning plant in Oshawa, Ontario, Canada.

Design features

With a design that is very close to the original concept, the 2010 Chevrolet Camaro acknowledges its heritage from the first-generation Camaro, produced from 1967 through 1969. The two-door sports coupe features classic proportions over a 112.3-inch (2,852 mm) wheelbase. The overall length of the Chevrolet Camaro is 190.4 inches (4,836 mm); width and height are 75.5 inches (1,918 mm) and 54.2 inches (1,376 mm), respectively.

2010 Nissan Ellure Concept photos

2010 Nissan Ellure Concept pics
2010 Nissan Ellure Concept image
2010 Nissan Ellure Concept photo
As a longtime industry innovator in sedan design, notably the original Datsun 510 and numerous generations of Nissan Maximas, Altimas and Sentras, Nissan has always had an affinity for both the form and its buyers. So it should come as no surprise that in an environment where traditional sedan buyers have been migrating toward coupe and crossover SUV alternatives, along comes the engagingly seductive Nissan Ellure Concept, which makes its world debut at the 2010 Los Angeles Auto Show.

"While not intended as a preview of any upcoming production model, Ellure confirms Nissan's intention to be a strong player in the sedan segment for many years to come," explains Shiro Nakamura, senior vice president and chief creative officer, Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. (NML), who supervised the global design effort. "As an expression of our long-term vision for the next generation of great Nissan sedans, Ellure allows us to introduce a new sedan concept - one that honors the sedan's unmatched daytime functionality, yet has a more emotive, almost hidden ambience that comes to life after dark. It's an ideal fit for the needs of its projected owners, women in their '30s and '40s with a sense of sophistication and rebellion."

2010 Nissan Ellure Concept seats

2011 Buick GL8 pictures

2011 Buick GL8 image
2011 Buick GL8 photo
2011 Buick GL8 car
2011 Buick GL8 head light
2011 Buick GL8 interior

Had a model been especially popular or highly successful in races, Ettore Bugatti's customers often pushed the master to tease out of the engine a few horsepower more for their future car. Bugatti Automobiles S.A.S. had been in a similar situation when their existing customers asked the company to not only design their second model optically differently but to also create a version with a sportier and more extreme driving experience. The result is a car with a uniquely high performance of 1,200-hp (882 kW) offering experienced drivers a whole new dimension of excitement, with a maximum torque of 1,500 Newton metres and a limited top speed of 415 km/h (to protect the tyres) but, the technique of the Bugatti Veyron Super Sport is identical to the record car. The first five Bugatti Veyron Super Sports to come off the production line will constitute a special series of their own, with the same configuration as the landspeed record car.

The Bugatti Veyron Super Sport is a consequent of the further development of the classic exclusive 1,001-hp Bugatti Veyron 16.4, launched in 2005. This model offers a stunning set of specifications, such as the twin clutch gearbox with seven speeds, the extraordinarily precise driving performance in bends and excellent stability when braking and accelerating.

Continuous work in extreme performance ranges lead to constantly new conclusions, which enabled the engineers at Bugatti to develop the Veyron into a direction in which the driver can reach new dimensions. Every modification is designed to produce an even more powerful car for an agile ride. Four enlarged turbochargers and bigger intercoolers have been used to boost the power of the 16-cylinder engine, and the chassis has been extensively redesigned to maintain safety at extreme speed - thanks to slightly raised main-spring travel, stronger stabilisers, and new shock absorbers with a complex architecture originally developed for racing cars. This gives noticeably more precise control of the wheels and the car as a whole. With lateral acceleration of up to 1.4 G and improved interaction between the tyres and the intelligent all-wheel drive system, the Bugatti Veyron Super Sport offers perfect handling and even more powerful acceleration of 1,500 Newton metres on corner exits.

The body has been fine-tuned to improve aerodynamic efficiency and maintain perfect balance in every situation, while the new fibre structure of the all-carbon monocoque ensures maximum torsion rigidity and passive safety - at reduced weight. The skin is made entirely of carbon-fibre composites, and the new Bugatti Veyron Super Sport is available in 100 per-cent clearlacquered exposed carbon on request.

Saleen Car images

Saleen Car photo





Saleen S7 SilverMost of Saleen Inc. was bought by Michigan Group after the specialty car company’s recent fold up last November. A few months ago, the company’s future was all blurry with the dismissal and rehiring of its employees.

Saleen Inc.’s future is a little clearer today after the Michigan Group’s purchase. Late last year, Saleen’s performance street car program and supercharger was purchased by MJ Acquisitions. The deal included the aftermarket business in Los Angeles formerly owned by Hancock Park Associates.

Among the few of Hancock’s remaining properties include Saleen’s supercars: the S5 and S7 Raptor concept, and the Viper paint-shop operation.

For now, ASC, Saleen’s sister company, is also still under the management of Hancock. The terms of the sale with MJ Acquisitions were not disclosed to the public.

This year also saw the stepping down of Saleen President Chris Thedore from position. He is set to leave by the end of February, and is currently closing the sales of what’s left of Saleen, Inc.

A number of Saleen’s top executives already left the company last year. This downfall seems to have been initiated by the departure of Saleen’s founder in 2007.

2010 Nissan 370Z photos

2010 Nissan 370Z image
2010 Nissan 370Z pics
2010 Nissan 370Z car in red
2010 Nissan 370Z interior

2010 Nissan 370Z wallpaper

The more compact exterior dimensions and expanded use of lightweight materials help reduce weight, while at the same time the body structure has been extensively reinforced, improving rigidity.

Along with its new structure and stance, the Nissan 370Z has a taut new skin - one that looks completely new, yet completely Z. The exterior design incorporates intentional 240Z styling cues, a sleek aerodynamic shape, a "dynamic motion" feel with a dramatic cantilevered roof (with Nissan GT-R styling cues) and a "low visual gravity."

The 370Z's sleek silhouette is defined by its upswept quarter window design that is echoed by the dynamic upward curvature in the lower rocker panel and the sense of the taut sheet metal molding itself around the wheels and frame. Attention to detail and functionality is evident throughout the exterior design, including the addition of a turn indicator integrated into the Z logo mounted between the front wheel and door.

Nissan 370Z Interior: putting the driver at the heart of the action

The interior design of the new Nissan 370Z continues the Z tradition of enhancing driving pleasure, no matter what the road or traffic conditions offer. Additionally, particular attention has been paid to the quality of the material, as well as the fit and finish.

The traditional 2-seat layout is built around a deeply scooped instrument panel with a full-length centre console separating the driver and passenger's seat. In the rear is an open luggage area with enhanced storage and accessibility.

The information layer provides enhanced visibility with easy access to all key data. The gauges are once again attached to the steering column, so the driver doesn't have to choose between the perfect steering wheel position and visibility of the gauges.

Interior packaging is also enhanced from the previous generation, including the removal of the rear strut brace (replaced with less intrusive structural reinforcements) and by adding a new "shelf" area behind the seats, creating an ideal area for storing briefcases. A retractable cover is standard on the 370Z and locking glove compartment has been added.

Life on board has been improved thanks to the addition of an engine start and stop button, larger diameter dials and thanks to the use of premium-feel material on seats, armrest and door trims (depending on grade).

3.7-litre engine: the Z's heart and soul

As its new moniker suggests, the new Nissan 370Z is now powered by a 3.7-litre VQ37VHR engine with VVEL (Variable Valve Event and Lift). Along with its larger displacement, the new engine gives better power delivery all the way to the 7,000 rpm redline, improved low-end power and more high-end torque, creating an entirely new driving experience. Approximately 35 percent of the engine's parts are new, versus the previous design. Power is rated at 331PS, while torque is 366Nm. Engine output, figures for Europe are subject to homologation.

The new engine is backed by a choice of two new advanced transmissions, both designed to improve driver performance. The newly improved close-ratio 6-speed manual gearbox includes the world's first synchronized down/ up shift rev control system, which allows drivers of any skill level to experience perfectly smooth gear shifts every time. The "SynchroRev Control" function automatically adjusts engine speed when changing gear to the exact speed of the next gear position, essentially "blipping" the throttle to smooth out any down/up shifts.

"This exciting new Z represents the essence of the Nissan brand, just as the original 240Z did nearly 40 years before," said Loing. "It provides passionate performance at an excellent value - just what was needed then and just what sports car enthusiasts are looking for today."

2012 BMW 650i Convertible pics

2012 BMW 650i Convertible image
2012 BMW 650i Convertible photo
2012 BMW 650i Convertible picture
2012 BMW 650i Convertible

new 2012 BMW 650i Convertible car

BMW’s followup to the dramatic 6-Series won’t bring anything shocking to the table, but it should address concerns with the existing model and increase the large coupe’s competitiveness, according to a new report by Germany’s AutoBild.

While the current 6-Series ? introduced in 2004 ? is arguably one of BMW’s most aggressive and controversial designs, its successor won’t do anything to push the envelope further. Instead, it will serve to move the 6er further toward grand tourer territory.

Longer than today’s model, the 2011 6-Series will offer more legroom for rear passengers. At the same time, it will get a sportier cockpit with a more driver oriented console layout.

As signaled by BMW’s new CS concept, the automaker will be abandoning its awkward trunk design features on the 5-,6-, and 7-Series in favor of a more streamlined design.

Three engines options will give customers a choice between 306, 408, and 507 horsepower, the report claims. The 306 hp model will make use of BMW’s new twin-turbo inline-six found in the 335i. It’s unlikely the 635i will make it to U.S. shores, since Germany luxury makers generally don’t offer entry-level engines in premium cars in America.

The 650i’s successor will climb in output to 408 horsepower ? up from 360 horsepower in the current model, which itself was a significant jump from the 645i’s 325 horsepower. The M6 is expected to retain BMW’s 5.0-liter V10, with output of at least 507 horsepower.

The convertible version is expected to make use of a folding metal roof, like the new 3-Series convertible. Front overhang on both models will decrease by an inch and a half, despite increased pedestrian safety requirements. Wheelbase will grow three inches.

A previous Autobild report suggested BMW would also offer a four-door variant of the next-gen 6-Series codenamed F14, but it now appears rivaling the Mercedes CLS will be the job of the CS-based 8-Series.

[Illustration by CarAdvice and Autobild ]