www.exorian.com

RM20.00 sahaja untuk 10 e-book serta peluang untung lebih 100%

2011-12-10T15:40:00.000+08:00

Saya ingin menjual semua e-book di bawah pada harga hanya RM20.00 sahaja.

Anda juga berpeluang menambah pendapatan dengan cara klik di SINI

Double Race Wins For PROTON In MSS

2011-10-03T19:56:00.000+08:00

Syafiq Ali and Faidzil Alang race to double race wins in the Malaysian touring car championship at Sepang International Circuit.

Occupying the top two positions on the grid, the PROTON R3 racing team dominated to lead the 10 lap race from start to finish.

Pole-sitter Syafiq set a blistering pace in the PROTON Gen2 with team mate Faidzil in close pursuit in the Satria Neo R3. Finishing third in race 1 and 2 was Siah Wy Pyng in another PROTON Satria Neo R3.

Syafiq and Alang also had a day to remember as they both dominated qualifying and finals in the MTC, ensuring a 1-2 front row as they both posted 24:34:990 and 24:39:300 respectively for the final rounds.

"The results are a testament not only to the competitiveness of the Gen2 and Satria Neo on the circuit but underlines PROTON's commitment to be better," said Datuk Abdul Razak Dawood, the Head of PROTON Motorsports.

"PROTON has had the distinction of enjoying numerous success in rallying and circuit racing and it is indeed encouraging to see this tradition carrying on today."

The latest Garmin map for Malaysia & Singapore dated 3rd Oct 2011

2011-10-03T19:50:00.000+08:00

The latest Garmin map for Malaysia & Singapore dated 3rd Oct 2011 is now available for downloading. Click HERE to download.

Peugeot 4008 crossover going to Geneva

2011-10-02T07:03:00.000+08:00

After the French manufacturer announced a few months ago that the 4008 will be officially unveiled at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show, Peugeot finally decided to put some light into the situation and said that the crossover will be presented to the public at the next year Geneva Auto Show.

With the same body that makes us think at the Mitsubishi ASX, the 4008 is rumored to have the Open & Go system, touch-screen navigation, glass panoramic roof and some new 18 inch alloy wheels, but the most interesting fact is that this is more appealing compared to the 3008 or the 5008 so the French may be on to something.

No official details about the new 4008’s powertrains have emerged yet but the crossover should be powered by either the French 1.6 liter HDi diesel, mated to a five-speed manual transmission, or the Japanese 2.0 petrol, both of them being most likely fitted with the stop / start system.

Even if the new 4008 will be available in 2WD, 4WD or Lock, most customers will definitely chose the front-wheel drive.

The Peugeot 4008 will be officially presented at the 2012 Geneva Auto Show and the crossover is expected to go on sale worldwide from the second quarter of next year.-inautonews.com

2012 Citroen C4 Aircross SUV unveiled

2011-10-02T07:01:00.000+08:00

Autumn is just a boring transition to winter when rear-wheel drive comes in pretty handy on snow and ice, but that’s not Citroen’s opinion who has just unveiled a new crossover / SUV based on the C4 and named, obviously, C4 and Aircross.

The French want to catch the top of the wave and Citroen’s C4 Aircross unveil comes right after its sister brand Peugeot has presented new details about its4008 crossover, based on the Mitsubishi ASX, which will make its official debut at the Geneva Auto Show next year.

Citroen says that its new C4 Aircross will be powered by two diesels which are coming in some different trims, like the 1.6 liter HDi with its 110 and 150 horsepower (270 Nm / 199 lb-ft), and a 1.8 liter unit delivering 148 horsepower and 300 Nm of torque (221 lb-ft), both mated to the standard six-speed manual transmission. Petrol lovers can chose from the 1.6i which is delivering 114 horsepower and 152 Nm of torque (112 lb-ft), mated to the five-speed manual transmission, or the 2.0i with its 150 horsepower, the last of them being sold only in markets outside Europe.

According to the French automaker, the new C4 Aircross, which will be available in both 2WD and 4WD, is expected to go on sale in the first half of 2012 so a possible Geneva Auto Show presence could be in the books. Citroen didn’t announce the prices for its new crossover / SUV or if the vehicle can be pre-ordered.-inautonews.com

Star Wars volkswagen passat auction

2011-10-02T06:57:00.000+08:00

During the 2011 Comic Con, artist Ken Lashley decked out a white Volkswagen Passat in Star Wars theme.

There is some art from each episode of the Star Wars saga on all sides of the car. The car is a 2012 Volkswagen Passat TDI that runs on clean diesel. Last weekend it was showcased at the OC international auto show.

It will be auctioned for charity today for Stand up to Cancer by Ebay Motors. Bidding is at almost $29,000 at this very second. Listing here. All 100% of the sale will go to this charity that gives research grants to scientists that are working on ways to fight cancer.-examiner.com

Honda give the Honda new logo and slight makeover for new China brand

2011-10-02T06:54:00.000+08:00

When GM started its own sub brand with Baojun Honda decided ‘We too, can do that‘ and of course it went at its own plans. But with Honda having two partners in China that are both focused on passenger car production, where as GM has one focused on passenger cars withSAIC and another focused on commercial vehicles with FAW. Honda’s partners at Dongfeng-Honda and Guangzhou-Honda both had plans for their own Honda based sub brands and by recycling Honda’s older platforms for customers that were not as aesthetically minded it seemed like a win-win situation for the joint venture partner and the customer, the partners would get access to IPR and the customer gets a world class car, albeit slightly more ‘mature’ for a Chinese price, Honda China could already hear the tills ringing.

Honda’s first sub brand came from their Guangzhou Honda joint venture, the Everus brand was launched at theGuangzhou Auto Show in December 2010, the Chinese media were waiting with baited breath as to what the first Everuswould look like – instead they got the old generation Honda City with a new epilepsy inducing badge glued to the front end. The Everus S1 (aka the old City) has been on sale for a couple of months now, of course it does not yet have an independent dealership network and is sold through the Guangzhou Honda network and has accumulated sales of 13,459 units to date and sold just under 1500 units in August alone, clearly early days but there is some traction there at least.

The second sub brand will come from Dongfeng-Honda and is expected to be called Si Ming (思铭) in Chinese, or CIIMO in English – make sense? It does in Chinese, where the first character makes thoughts and Ming meaning an inscribed motto. The badge of course looks very similar to Dongfeng’s own badge with a few different strokes in there for good measure to mix things up, but the first car will be even more familiar; it’s the old Honda Civic with a minor face lift to keep it relevant. The new Honda Civic launched in China earlier this month at the Chengdu Auto Show and seems to be roughly on par with what was launched in the US last month, the hatchback version that was sold in Europe only until now is thought to in the works for China in mid to late 2012.

According to Chinese media reports the new old Civic will continue to use the old Civic’s 1.8L engine and 5 speed manual and automatic gearbox, pricing is hard to gauge in these early days but it could be somewhere in the 100,000 to 140,000rmb range.-chinacartimes.com

PROTON Can Clinch 2011 APRC Title in Rally Hokkaido

2011-09-30T21:13:00.001+08:00

All eyes will be on PROTON at this weekend’s Rally Hokkaido as driver Chris Atkinson prepares for what could be his toughest event yet this season, and one that could equally propel him to winning his first and this year’s Asia Pacific Rally Championship (APRC) Driver’s title.

The Australian has been a dominating force in the Satria Neo S2000 in his debut season on the APRC circuit, winning three out of four rounds, and another victory in Japan will most certainly see him being crowned the 2011 APRC champion with the final round the China Rally to be contested in November.

The outcome of the championship could also be decided depending on how his nearest rivals finish this weekend. Currently second overall in the driver’s championship and within striking distance is PROTON team mate Alister McRae who with 86 points is just 23 points adrift of Atkinson. In third and fourth places respectively are Indian driver Gaurav Gill at 63 points and Indonesian Rifat Sungkar with 47 points who could still mathematically clinch the title.

“This week’s going to be no different. It is possible for us to win the championship here, but I’m honestly not thinking about that at all. We’re completely focused on the event itself,” said Atkinson who has already clinched the 2011 FIA Pacific Cup Driver’s title with two victories from the three rounds contested this year (Australia, New Caledonia and New Zealand). His last major title was winning the Asia Pacific Super 1600 Championship in 2003 and 2004.

“The car has been really strong in the APRC this season. The priority for us this week is to get both cars to the finish to make sure PROTON scores the maximum points in the FIA APRC manufacturers’ championship. The entire PROTON team is committed to be better and we have done just that in every rally.”

With plenty at stake, PROTON will face a field dominated by Mitsubishis and Subarus in a rally in which the long special stages is more than likely to give the turbocharged cars a distinct advantage over the normally-aspirated Satria Neo S2000 cars.

“We found last year that this is a pretty tough event for the Super 2000 cars, with a lot of very long straights. The team has made some changes to the gear ratios this time around, so we will have a higher top speed. At the same time, we’re always going to struggle to match the higher speed of the conventional Group N cars with their turbochargers. But that’s not going to stop us trying,” said PROTON team mate McRae.

“I enjoyed this event last year and led it for a while. We’re targeting a win in Japan this time round, but as well as the local drivers, I think our biggest rival could be the Australian guy in the other yellow car! Atkinson has had a very good year and he’s going to be tough for us to beat. But, if we want the championship, that’s what we’re going to have to do.”

PROTON currently leads the APRC Manufacturer’s title with 132 points, with Mitsubishi a close second with 119 points and Subaru a distant third place with 39 points. PROTON also currently leads the APRC Teams Trophy with 185 points. McRae meanwhile, is second and still in contention of winning the FIA Asia Cup Driver’s title and is just seven points behind Gill.

With Japan and China to be contested, PROTON however, has already sealed the FIA 2WD Manufacturer’s title with 145 points, with Renault in second place with 39 points. Japanese driver Akira Bamba in the Group N 1600cc Satria Neo has also built an unassailable lead to clinch the FIA APRC Junior Cup Driver’s title. Malaysian driver and multiple APRC winner Karamjit Singh meanwhile, is leading the FIA APRC Rally Cup Driver’s 2WD title with 115 points in the second Group N Satria Neo 1600cc.

Rally Hokkaido will take place in Obihiro and run over 19 gravel special stages with a competitive distance of 222.89km. Day 1 opens on Friday with a 1.2km super special stage for spectators before continuing on Saturday with another 10 special stages. The third and final day will be run over eight special stages.

ARK Performance, Hyundai Join Forces on Veloster SEMA Show Car

2011-09-30T21:11:00.001+08:00

Hyundai has teamed up with ARK Performance to build a rally-inspired Veloster for the 2011 SEMA Show in Las Vegas. The car will join other modified Velosters (and Genesis Coupes) on display in Hyundai’s booth Tuesday, November 1 through Friday, November 4. The car will feature a modified engine and suspension along with custom interior pieces and body work.

“The Hyundai Veloster is an ideal car for enthusiasts with its distinctive design and dynamic architecture,” said Ted Lee, owner, ARK Performance Inc, in a press release. “At SEMA, our ARK Performance Veloster will bridge the realm between an affordable sports car and an extreme motor sports vehicle. From the first Tiburon, to the Genesis Coupe, and now with the Veloster, ARK Performance continues to uphold the torch as the pioneer of aftermarket performance manufacturingfor Hyundai.”

ARK Performance plans to breathe on the Veloster’s 1.6 liter four banger with a twin-scroll turbocharger that blows through a custom intercooler on its way to the intake valves. Exhaust gasses are spent through a custom turbo manifold and dual exhaust system. The engine is expected to make 210 horsepower – a 34 percent improvement over the stock engine.

The suspension is set to a receive a coilover setup, new control arms, front and rear sway bars, and a front strut bars. A big brake kit with six-piston calipers will peek from behind Yokohama Advan RZ Gunmetal wheels shod with Nitto NT05 tires.

A custom rally-style roll-cage will be fitted to the interior that will be upgraded with Alcantara trim seemingly everywhere, and an aftermarket audio system complete with new speakers, subwoofers and amplifiers.

New exterior lighting, front and rear bumpers, side skirts and a rear spoiler will also make their way onto the Veloster. Wide-body fenders – front and rear – will house the new wheel and tire package. The exterior will be finished off in a custom bright green and flat grey paint scheme.-motortrend.com

Morgan and Zytek team up to build high performance EV

2011-09-30T21:07:00.000+08:00

The Morgan Aero SuperSports is a pretty impressive automobile, even in its standard form. It has a lightweight aluminum body, a hardwood and leather cockpit and a top speed of 170 mph (273 km/h). It also has a 4.8 liter BMW V8 engine, although in a project currently being undertaken by the British automaker and Zytek Automotive, that power plant will be replaced with a 70kW electric motor. The result will be known as the Electric Morgan +E. Although only two of them will be made, the company says that if the experience proves favorable, "further developments" could result.

The 70kW (94 bhp) 300Nm motor will be derived from a model already made by Zytek, that is currently being supplied to some American EV manufacturers. It will be mounted in the transmission tunnel, where it will require connections for cooling water, high voltage electrics and low voltage electrics. Power will be supplied by a lithium-ion battery pack, which will be integrated into the cars' aluminum chassis.

Anyone who likens driving electric cars to driving golf carts will be glad to know that the +E shall retain the SuperSports' manual transmission. "Keeping the motor in its sweet spot will help it use energy more efficiently, which will increase the vehicle's range," stated Zytek engineering program manager Neil Cheeseman. "It also allows us to provide lower gearing for rapid acceleration from pull-away and higher gearing for top speed."

Not only that, but it should also make driving the cars a lot more fun.

The Morgan/Zytek collaborative project has received funding from the CENEX-run Niche Vehicle Network CR&D Programme, which promotes the application of new technology for making low-carbon vehicles more marketable. Morgan previously received funding from the group for development of the new version of its iconicThree Wheeler.

Work on the two +E's began in July, and should be completed by January. Morgan is also working on a fuel cell-powered prototype automobile, known as the Lifecar.-gizmag.com

Citroën's ultra practical Nemo Multispace

2011-09-30T21:04:00.000+08:00

Like my dog, the Citroën Nemo Multispace MPV is ugly – but in a very cute way. – and it’s an equally faithful servant.

It’s the outsize front bumper that makes it look odd but spotlights the obvious priority that was given to practicality and durability when this car was on the drawing board.

Those inventive French engineers have come up with a perfectly configured benefits package. Compact exterior dimensions that enable it to turn on the proverbial penny clothe an interior that light an airy, and spacious too – allowing five adults and their luggage to travel in comfort.

It’s an ideal vehicle for today’s crowded city roads but it’s no slouch out on the highway either. Despite its upright stance, it handles well on twisty country roads, the boot has a low floor for ease of loading and when you get there it’s easy to park the thing.

Competitively priced from just £12,345 on the road, the new Nemo Multispace is powered by an advanced, super-clean and ultra-economical Euro 5 HDi 75 diesel engine. With this high-tec powerplant, the Nemo Multispace’s carbon emissions drop to just 113g/km. An efficient, self-regenerating diesel particulate filtration system brings further environmental gains.

As an additional environmental boost the Nemo Multispace benefits from advanced, emissions reducing and fuel saving stop and start technology. The benefits of this include fuel consumption gains when driving in heavy traffic as well as silence and lack of vibration when the engine is stopped.

A high seating area and large glass areas provide brilliant visibility which, combined with the Nemo Multispace’s compact dimensions, make for that easy manoeuvrability. Big front doors and tailgate, plus wide rear sliding doors, make accessibility to the roomy interior easy young and old alike.

The level of standard Nemo Multispace safety equipment has been raised and now includes an electronic stability program, as well as ABS with EBD, driver and front passenger airbags and front lateral airbags.

Both outer rear seats have Isofix child seat mountings, while other safety features include height adjustable front seat belts with pre-tensioners and force limiters. And, to ensure that the Nemo Multispace is secure, all models have a transponder immobiliser and high frequency remote control central locking.

The price might be low, but the Nemo Multispace also comes as standard with front electric windows, electrically adjustable and heated door mirrors, a handy rechargeable torch in the boot and RDS stereo radio/MP3 compatible CD player with four speakers.

This latest Nemo Multispace boasts a smart new dashboard and instrumentation display – and to ensure optimum driver comfort, the steering wheel adjusts for height and reach. The driver’s seat is also height adjustable and is equipped with lumbar adjustment and an armrest. A multi-function on-board trip computer enables the driver to keep track of the Nemo Multispace’s exceptional fuel economy and a host of other journey-related functions.

The 98 mph top speed is adequate for the motorway while there’s plenty of through the gears oomph to enable the Nemo to keep pace with the traffic flow.-.belfasttelegraph.co.uk

Carmakers Unveil New Types of Hybrids

2011-09-30T20:57:00.000+08:00

Hybrid cars normally combine conventio

nal engines with battery-powered electric motors. But many carmakers are developing alternative types of hybrids—some of which were on display this month at the Frankfurt Motor Show in Germany.

Hybrid systems recover kinetic energy—from the engine or from the vehicle itself—and use it to boost the efficiency of the engine. A typical hybrid car does this by charging up a battery.

Scuderi, based in West Springfield, Massachusetts, has altered the way the internal combustion engine operates to convert kinetic energy into the potential energy of high-pressure air. It splits the four parts of the internal combustion cycle across two cylinders synchronized on the same crankshaft. One cylinder handles the air intake and compression part of the cycle, pumping compressed air via a crossover passage into the second cylinder. The crossover contains the fuel-injection system, and combustion and exhaust are handled in the second cylinder.

When the vehicle does not need power—when traveling downhill, braking, or decelerating—the second cylinder is disabled and the first cylinder's air is diverted into a high-pressure air-storage tank. This air can be used to help run the engine, boosting its efficiency.

Recently, Scuderi has combined this system with a "Miller-cycle" turbocharger, which picks up energy off the exhaust and uses it to compress air into the intake cylinder. This allows the compression side to be shrunk down and reduces the amount of work done through the crankshaft. "The engine is producing much higher output at higher efficiency, we're producing less emissions, and our torque level is very high," said Scuderi group president Sal Scuderi at the Frankfurt show. "Our gasoline engine will rival the torque of any diesel engine on the market, but it does that while maintaining low pressure inside the cylinders, which reduces wear and tear."

Scuderi has now released results of a computer simulation of its engine against a European economy-class engine of comparable power. The air hybrid achieved a fuel economy figure of 65 miles per gallon, compared with 52 miles per gallon for the conventional engine. It also emitted 85 grams per kilometer of carbon dioxide, compared with 104 grams per kilometer for the conventional engine.

Across the Atlantic, a team that formerly worked for the Renault Formula 1 team has adapted its motorsport-developed flywheel system for use with conventional vehicles. The team has formed a company, Flybrid Systems, to commercialize the technology, and has teamed up with Jaguar Land Rover to trial the Flybrid technology that was originally developed as the kinetic energy recovery system (KERS) used in Formula 1 racing to provide a boost during racing. But while most KERS systems work by using a flywheel to charge an onboard battery or supercapacitor, Flybrid uses a gearbox system to transfer kinetic energy directly to and from the wheels.

Flybrid cars transfer energy via either a continuously variable transmission or a less complex three-gear system, which allows 15 different gear ratios on a standard five-gear model. "There are always efficiency losses when you convert energy," explains Flybrid's technical director, Doug Cross. "This system eliminates those losses, making it far more efficient."

The flywheel weighs five kilograms and is made from carbon fiber wrapped around a steel core. Because it is so light, it has to spin fast—at 60,000 rpm—which means that its rim is traveling at supersonic speeds. As a result, it has to operate in a vacuum, and Flybrid has developed special seals so that the wheel can be fully enclosed inside a safety container in case of a crash. At top speed, the flywheel can store 540 kilojoules of energy, which is sufficient to accelerate an average-sized automobile from a standing start to 48 kilometers per hour.

"One way you can use this technology is to boost the car during a cruise," Cross said. "We have a system installed on a Jaguar saloon, and that has shown that during a cruise, you can actually switch the engine off for 65 percent of the journey. With a V6 diesel engine, it cuts fuel use by 26 percent, but gives you the power of a V8 petrol engine."-.technologyreview.com

Wackiest Doors at the Show - 2011 Frankfurt Auto Show

2011-09-29T21:07:00.000+08:00

You can’t help noticing one trend common to many of the concept cars on display at this year’s Frankfurt Auto Show. And if you’re not careful, this same trend could end up bopping you on the chin, or thumping your forehead. Car doors that swing, slide, and glide open are all the rage here in Frankfurt. Having a concept car with a wacky set of doors is suddenly a fashion statement more popular than Justin Bieber’s bangs. These are our top picks for the coolest and strangest doors spotted during the show.

Ford Evos Concept

Photos >>

For a car that looks eerily similar to a 2013 Ford Taurus up front, the Evos Concept gets all kinds of crazy from its windshield back. The four doors open scissor-style, and take most of the roof and all of the rear fenders with them. When open and seen in profile, the Evos looks as raw and exposed as a race car stripped of its bodywork. A bright red leather seat for the driver is a sporty touch.

Mercedes Benz F 125! Concept

Photos >>

When is a sedan a coupe, or a coupe a sedan? When it’s the Mercedes-Benz F 125! This concept only has two doors, massive gullwing-style ones that are similar to those of the SLS AMG sports car. In this application, though, they take up the acreage of four traditional doors. Using a hydrogen fuel cell and plug-in hybrid technology, the F 125! has room for four passengers. It also hints at the shape of upcoming Mercedes-Benz sedans.

Volkswagen Nils

Photos >>

A mechanical twin to the Audi Urban Concept, the electric-powered VW Nils has room for only one aboard—although it does come with a small luggage compartment behind the cockpit. Five inches shorter than a Porsche 911, the Nils relies on some pretty trick gullwing doors. The doors themselves are mostly transparent, and offer excellent visibility when behind the wheel.

Peugeot HX1 Concept

Photos >>

Only the French could design a set of doors that look effortlessly cool, and somewhat aloof. The diesel hybrid-powered Peugeot HX1 Concept has room for six and the proportions of a station wagon. But at only 54 inches tall, it’s shorter in height than many sports cars. The four doors swing up and over the HX1 body, the ones in front positioning themselves over the A-pillar and part of the windshield. The rears swing backward, though the leading (bottom) edge looks perilously close to where a rear occupant would position his cranium while getting in or out of the car.

Citroën Tubik Concept

Doors don’t get bigger, or weirder, than the ones on the 9-passenger Citroën Tubik Concept. Even the sills go lower, to create a step, once the mammoth doors swing open. Citroen says the Tubik was designed for executives, except the cabin looks like it belongs to some garish Tokyo nightclub. A glowing purple grille only adds to this impression.

BMW i8 Concept

Photos >>

The doors to the BMW i8 are perfectly blended into the heavily sculpted sides of this all-wheel-drive plug-in hybrid coupe. Except for a center beam where an armrest and grab-handle is located, the doors are almost entirely clear. They arc upward, creating a generous amount of space for sliding into the front seats. Rear occupants still have to squeeze, due to high sills and a tapering of the side opening.

Audi Urban Concept

Photos >>

This open-wheel EV doesn’t look like it even needs doors, thanks to a snug cockpit and a formula car design. They’re small, but the Urban Concept does have a set of scissor-style doors that swing upward, taking the fixed side glass and side mirrors along with them. Squeezing into the cabin still looks to be a challenge, due mostly to tall side sills.-roadandtrack.com

2013 Hyundai Genesis Coupe Revealed !!

2011-09-29T21:03:00.000+08:00

The decision Hyundai in launching Genesis Coupe is a very brave step. South Korean automobile manufacturers are challenging the Mustang, by relying on Genesis.

Hyundai is now preparing Genesis Coupe facelift model. Golden generation of the Genesis Coupe will be arranged to present to enliven the sports car market in 2013.

As reported by autoevolution, Hyundai showed attractive appearance of Genesis Coupe in Hyundai-Blog.com This car is planned to debut the Detroit Auto Show 2012.

Speaking from the technology side, the car is expected to be using a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine with four cylinders, with receiving additional 3.8-liter direct injected from the V6 engine unit to produce 333 hp. However, reportedly, Hyundai Genesis can also be pinned with a 5.0-liter V8 engine, with power of 429 hp. -cheapracingcar.com

Peugeot Jumps on the Tiny-e-Car Bandwagon

2011-09-28T21:23:00.000+08:00

Tiny short-range electric cars with room for one or two were not uncommon at the IAA 2011 – VW brought the Nils, Audi had the Urban Concept, and Opel showed the Rak e. Peugeot missed the auto show, but has announced its own tiny electric car anyway – the Velv.

Velv is short for “Véhicule électrique léger de ville,” which the dictionary tells me is something like “city light electric vehicle.” Weighing only 1,433 lbs, the prototype is designed to have a range of about 60 miles and a top speed of 65 mph. So far, these numbers seem to be on paper only.

Space for three passengers is the Velv’s way of standing out. The seats are arranged in a sort of triangle, with the driver’s seat front and center. The passengers are to the rear. All three seats are accessible by gull-wing glass windows (above), and standard doors (below).

The gull-wing “doors” are powered by the 20kW electric engine (produced by Valeo), which draws its power from a lithium ion battery pack with a capacity of 8.5 kWh (produced by Johnson Controls). However, whether production of the Velv will maintain the same components as the prototype is still in question.

Rounding out the Velv’s striking and not particularly Peugeot-like appearance are the twin tires and narrow brake lights in the rear, below the small storage space nestled behind the passenger seats.-cleantechnica.com

Honda announces next generation motorcycle engines with outstanding fuel economy and useability

2011-09-28T21:18:00.000+08:00

In a raft of announcements, Honda has developed a highly fuel-efficient, very torquey 700cc twin cylinder engine with a second-generation Dual Clutch Transmission which it will show in three different motorcycle designs at the EICMA 2011 International Motorcycle Exhibition in November in Milan, Italy.

The motor will also be paired with a manual six-speed transmission in at least one of those bikes and as it delivers better than 3.7 l/100km and and its motor is designed for on-road usability, it is almost certainly the first bike designed for western markets to take advantage of the world's coming gas crisis.

Also on display will be Honda's new 125 engine which will be used in its 125cc scooters around the world starting next year and contains an idle-stop system and delivers 25% better fuel economy than current generation scooter engines. Both the 700cc and 125cc engines contain considerable technological wizardry to achieve their goals.

Let's look at the 700 twin motor first. The new engine is a 700cc, liquid-cooled twin with its cylinders angled well (62º) forward. The biggest advantage delivered by the motor will be at the gas pump thanks to its 3.7 l/100km efficiency - that's 27 km/litre, 63.5 mpg (U.S.) and 76.35 mpg imperial. That makes for very cheap running costs.

The motor will be shown in three different designs at the EICMA 2011 International Motorcycle Exhibition in November in Milan, Italy. Only one of those designs has been released at this stage - a 700cc super-commuter with Dual Clutch Transmission and the same maxi-scooter styling Honda has long flirted with in its concept machinery.

The DCT is the second-generation of the transmission first developed for Honda's big V-twin, and the emphasis of the DCT's design has been compact and light.

At least one of the bikes to be seen at EICMA using the new 700 parallel twin motor will have a six-speed manual transmission.

For motorcyclists, the 700-twin engine will be an interesting new alternative as the engine reportedly delivers powerful torque in the low- to mid-speed range, something that makes riding a joy around town, and something that is much rarer than it should be with modern motorcycles. Over the last forty years, motorcycle magazines have concentrated on horsepower and lap times, which are largely immaterial for machines not at the sporting edge.

Honda is beginning to bring more relevant values and emphasis back to motorcycling.

Now we're working from a lot of Japanese documentation in delivering this report, but the gist of the information seems to be that Honda has used a host of technologies to give the engine a "delightful pulsating feel". We suspect from the press material we have seen that this is more than just the delightful rorty rumble of a crank with a 270 degree throw (a faux v-twin), but some characteristic that makes it feel particularly satisfying to ride.

The engine is also described in the press releases as having a "pleasant throbbing feel" and that the overall package has reduced vibration. It seems that we're going to need to wait to see what they've actually achieved in terms of engine character, but one hopes it is good, because they've gone to a lot of trouble to achieve it.

The properties of the engine have been achieved by the combination of half a dozen technologies, beginning with Honda's PGM-FI electronic fuel injection system, a 270 degree offset crankshaft, and a uni-axial primary balancer.

The engine uses branch intake ports inside the cylinder head so there is only one intake channel for both cylinders. It is designed to create deliberate interference between the intake processes of the two cylinders, and the rest of the engine is designed to use this to give it the above-mentioned engine character which sounds like it might be something special. Apart from varying the combustion timing in each cylinder, there are also changes to the valve timing between the two in-line cylinders. In deciding this was necessary, Honda then used one camshaft deliver two timing routines for the intake valve.

Through these measures, "subtle combustion changes can be generated" to give the engine the aforementioned "delightful, pulsating feel". So it would appear that Honda is purposefully building "character" into its new 700, just as BMW and Husqvarna have done with the Rotax 800 parallel twin, and is evident on all motorcycles usually related to the architecture of the motor - just as Harley and Ducati have found in different ways with the V-twin design.

Interestingly, Honda chose the announcement to include a couple of old patent drawings from a quarter century ago, showing its interest in 270 degree crank throws is not new.

There's a degree of irony in this announcement as Honda's 1968 CB750 was the first "superbike" and its four cylinder motor had an order of magnitude less vibration than the bikes it came to market against - the Norton Commando 750, Suzuki T500 two-stroke, Triumph Bonneville 650 and Yamaha 650 parallel twins, BMW R75/5 flat twin, Harley Ironhead 900 v-twin, the three-cylinder two-stroke Kawasaki H1 500 and Suzuki GT750 and three-cylinder four-strokes from Triumph Trident and BSA Rocket 3. All were consigned to obsolescence by the CB750 and so began the escalation between the four Japanese manufacturers that gave us the untouchable but rather bland Universal Japanese Motorcycle - four cylinders, in-line and not much different to your friends UJMs, regardless of the badge.

Now, Honda is leading the charge to use next-generation engine design and control software to build proprietary character into its motorcycles, not to mention relevant performance in the real world - there is a whole generation of people out there who have ridden motorcycles and an even bigger one which hasn't. As fuel prices inevitably rise over the next few years, Honda will have the perfect motorcycle for those people, and the Integra 700 superscooter looks to have all the commuter bases covered.

Its design offers the best protection against the elements, the most carrying capacity, remarkable performance and better fuel economy than anything that would come close to it in a straight line.

Indeed, given that the engine sizes aren't that much different, let's compare the Integra scooter and Honda's 1968 king-of-the-road, the CB750. The 1969 CB750 developed 68 bhp (51 kW) @ 8,500 rpm, 44 ftlb (60 Nm) torque @ 7,000 rpm, weighed 491 lb (223 kg) (wet). Though no figures have yet been released on the performance of the engine or the weight of the Integra, my guess is that the scooter will have a similar weight to the former "world's fastest" road bike, and though it will probably have less horsepower, it will run a quarter mile in a comparable time because of its strong acceleration.

If they make it fun to ride by giving it a pleasant throbbing feeling, it's a winner already.

Now for the 125 engine.

It seems like a return to old values to be talking about enhanced durability, quietness, and fuel economy, but Honda has gone all-out to build the next 125 world motor with those primary qualities.

The engine boasts fuel injection, a range of low friction technologies and an advanced idle stop system to enable fuel economy that is "approximately 25% better than that of conventional engines for scooters with the same displacement."

Any global engine needs to be very good, and a measure of the effort behind the motor is that Honda has exceeded the current PGM-FI 125 in all the important aspects - cost-to-run, fuel economy and low emissions.

To achieve the engine's excellent fuel efficiency, Honda incorporated a broad spectrum of new ideas to minimize frictional losses in the motor.

First up is the use of an offset cylinder which reduces friction caused by the contact between the sliding piston and the cylinder wall. The weight of the piston was reduced through computer analysis and a sleeve with minute spines on the outer surface of the cylinder sleeve has reduced oil consumption and improved cooling.

Low-friction technologies are everywhere - the first adoption of a shell-type needle bearing for the rocker arm shaft to reduce friction, smaller and lighter rollers together with an optimized cam profile and valve spring load. The bearings for each of the three axes in the transmission unit have been reevaluated according to the load they receive, then modified or replaced to minimize the rolling resistance inside the bearings.

Just how much energy can be saved by reducing the frictional losses of the engine? According to Honda, the new engine has 20% less frictional losses compared to the current engine when running at 50km/h. It should be noted that we have already waxed lyrical about the current engine, so it's clear that enormous analysis and critical thinking has been employed in the new design.

A highl;y efficient radiator core has been employed on the new 125, approximately 50% more efficient than the current engine, enabling a smaller and lighter cooling fan on the back of the radiator, which in turn has reduced frictional loss by approximately 30% in this area.

Oil sloshing around inside the engine is another area that has come into focus. Transmission oil capacity was reduced 25% in order to lower the oil agitation losses. A wide-ratio continuously variable transmission with V-belt (V-Matic) utilizes a drive belt made of newly developed high-elasticity rubber. Both excellent fuel efficiency and quietness are achieved through the efficient transmission of driving force by optimizing the lateral pressure applied to the belt, along with the durability of the belt.-gizmag.com

KU:RIN sets speed record for compressed air cars

2011-09-28T21:15:00.000+08:00

Although battery-powered cars may no longer be considered quirky and weird, automobiles propelled by compressed air are still perhaps thoughts of as a little ... fringy. The MDI Air Car looked promising, although development of the vehicle seems to have been at least temporarily suspended. Toyota Industries Corporation, however, recently brought some attention to the technology. On September 9th, its one-off KU:RIN set a new speed record for compressed air cars, at 129.2 km/h (80.3 mph).

The KU:RIN was designed and built by the Toyota group company before setting the record at the Japan Automobile Research Institute (JARI) test facility in Shirosato, Japan.

Toyota Industries Corporation is reportedly the world's largest supplier of automotive air conditioner compressors, and the designers used that technology in their little dragster - they essentially reversed one of their compressors, so instead of using mechanical energy to compress air, it generated mechanical energy through the expansion of compressed air.

While it may have gone fast, however, KU:RIN's range is only 3.2 kilometers (2 miles) - definitely not a car that we'll likely be seeing in showrooms any time soon. It may, however, be showing up in the Guinness Book of Records, as its recent feat has been submitted for inclusion.

"Ku" and "rin," incidentally, are Japanese for "air" and "wheel."-gizmag.com

After Volkswagen Up!, it's the Skoda Citigo

2011-09-28T21:13:00.000+08:00

The VW Up! made big news at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show but that's not all. Now details have emerged of the Skoda Citigo city car that will launch in the Czech Republic late in 2011 and in Europe next summer. Skoda has plans of an aggressive product launch schedule and will introduce a vehicle every six months. The CitiGo is a Skoda variant of the new new VW Up!. The new small car is powered by a 1.0 liter three-cylinder petrol engine.

Based on a front wheel drive platform, the car has ample cabin space for four. CitiGo dimensions are 3560mm long, 1650mm wide and 1480mm high, though Skoda puts the wheelbase measurement at 2420mm for increased cabin space for four occupants on long road trips. The Skoda CitiGo has a boot volume of 251 liters which increases to 951 liters when the rear seats are folded, which would be great for two people on a vacation.

The 3 door variant has an 'Easy Entry' system when accessing rear seats. It's a little old school wherein the front passenger seat folds forward so the rear seats are easy to access. The interior isn't likely to deviate too much from VW Up! styling. Initially the Skoda Citigo will have a manual transmission and a five speed auto transmission variant would be launched later. What is now being discussed is whether or not the Skoda Citigo will see a launch in the Indian car market that has been more than responsive to small cars, hatchbacks, and premium compact cars.-rushlane.com

Mystery Car 105: A Chinese minivan of many names

2011-09-28T21:10:00.000+08:00

Chevrolets are Chevys. Ford Model Ts are Tin Lizzies. And this odd minivan from China? It's the Hafei Minyi, or it's the M408, or its the J6391. However you look at it, Mystery Car 105 on Drive On's Forum definitely suffers in the naming department.

For the record, the caption on this week's Mystery Car as snapped at the 2008 Beijing auto show lists the minivan in question as the J6391. Because of the multiple names, we can't say reader Redbulloh was wrong for calling it the Minyi (and we're surely indebted to him for setting up the Mystery Car file in the Forum this week.) We like that 4popoid found the M408 and the same photo from a different angle. But it wasADK who tracked down the actual caption.

Besides minivans, Hafei makes the sedan that has become the basis for the Coda electric car, which is going on sale in California. Coda's U.S. CEO considers it the first Chinese car. The body is made in a China at one company, the battery pack at another and it is assembled in the U.S., where it was engineered. Even with that, we don't expect Hafai will exactly become a household name, like Chevy or Tin Lizzy.-ontent.usatoday.com

Volkswagen Phaeton: The Next Generation – Info and Specs

2011-09-27T20:14:00.000+08:00

Even though it was announced to be at the Frankfurt Motor Show this year, the preview of the next generation Phaeton, it didn’t make it. Many other models were present from Volkswagen Group, but the this particular concept, which is supposed to enter production in 2015, misteriously never appeared.

We can do nothing else but suppose that the concept will be unveiled at some another international auto show, and until then, listen to rumours, which so far say that the car be will be downsized to fit between the Audi A6 and A8, so it will no longer compete with the latter, and that it could receive one or more new and less traditional body styles in addition to the current four-door sedan shape.

Regarding the engine of this very much controversed concept, there aren’t many informations to feed with. All we know is that smaller engines could also be introduced in the new generation luxury vehicle.

We will keep you posted as soon as we find out new information about the new Volkswagen Phaeton. In the meantime, check the photos.-speedlux.com

Delphi Automotive Introduces Wireless Charging System at 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show

2011-09-27T20:11:00.000+08:00

Delphi Automotive and WiTricity presented the Wireless Charging System during the recently concluded Frankfurt Motor Show. This system was incorporated into a handful of demo vehicles on display at Frankfurt. Representatives from Delphi noted that the Wireless Charging System was created to remedy common problems with EV charging units. These issues range from the inconvenience of wired charging for drivers in a hurry to safety concerns when the weather turns bad. The Wireless Charging System advances inductive charging technology to increase charging distance, enhance charge speed and improve safety measures.

MIT Professor Marin Soljacic led the design team created by Delphi and WiTricity. Dr. Soljacic was tasked with creating a mid-range charging system that could work even if the vehicle was several feet from the charger. The Wireless Charging System team focused on a non-radiating form of charging using a magnetic field for battery recharging. Most firms dealing with wireless charging have relied on radiating technology that requires close proximity between the vehicle and charge point. The result of the Delphi/WiTricity collaboration is an innovative charger that uses a powerful magnetic coupling to create a sufficient field for recharging.

The Wireless Charging System is designed for home garages as well as dedicated parking spots for corporate employees. Delphi notes that the system can recharge a battery pack at a 3.3.kW rate, which is competitive with the typical plug-in charger. Dr. Soljicac and his engineering team ensured that the magnetic fields created by this system are safe for passengers and pets alike. The system’s lightweight design and remote charging capability creates the opportunity to install systems out of sight. Delphi and WiTricity discussed the potential to bury the Wireless Charging System into walls and floors as a means of preventing structural damage. Users would also avoid charging fluctuations due to precipitation and temperature with the Wireless Charging System.

The convenience of the Wireless Charging System is likely restricted to a small niche of EV drivers for the foreseeable future. Delphi and WiTricity recognize that plug-in vehicles and charging stations represent the current trend in EV infrastructure. The Wireless Charging System could be augmented with portable plug-in units currently developed by Delphi. The Portable Electric Vehicle Charge from Delphi could be reconfigured to turn wireless charging into plug-in charging away from home. Wireless charging might not take the world by storm in the near future but this technology could become commonplace if EVs begin to tip the balance in the transportation industry.-hybridmile.com

Is The 2012 Dodge Hornet The Anti-Caliber?

2011-09-27T20:09:00.000+08:00

If you’re a fan of the now-discontinued Dodge Caliber, be prepared to be offended. Perhaps the best example of what happens when accountants design cars, the Dodge Caliber gets my vote for the worst domestic car of the past decade. It was, in fact, the only rental car I ever returned before driving off the lot, and even the SRT guys apologized for the Caliber SRT4, saying essentially, “we did the best we could with what we had to work with.”

Those days at Dodge are gone, and there’s good news on the horizon for Mopar fans with a passion for compacts: the upcoming Dodge Hornet may be good enough to make us forget all about the Caliber. Based on the Alfa Romeo Giulietta (which won’t be coming stateside until 2014), the 2012 Dodge Hornet will come in sedan and 5 door body styles, with engines ranging from frugal to fun. Want 40 mpg from your commuter car? Opt for the Hornet with the 1.4-liter four cylinder, good for 168 horsepower. Want a bit more grunt? Opt for the SRT4 version, which should come packing Alfa Romeo’s 1.8-liter four, good for 232 horsepower.

Left Lane News says to expect both manual and dual-clutch automatic transmissions, and an interior the borrows heavily from the Alfa Romeo and Fiat parts bin. The Hornet’s handling should be “European inspired,” and we’re guessing that the Hornet SRT4 will be able to throw down against any other FWD offering with confidence.

Expect to see the 2012 Dodge Hornet introduced at the Los Angeles Auto Show in November.-automotiveaddicts.com

1,088 hp Concept_One Electric Supercar at Frankfurt Motor Show

2011-09-24T18:54:00.000+08:00

New Anti-theft Devices for Automobiles Helps to Cut Down on Car Theft

2011-09-24T18:51:00.000+08:00

This year there has been a significant decrease in auto theft with around 7.2% less Americans reporting having been targeted by car thieves, compared with the year 2010. These figures were reported by the FBI’s yearly report of uniformed crime.

The Ford Motor Corporation has developed an anti-theft device for vehicles, which is suspected to have been the primary cause of the drop in stolen vehicles. Ford commented that it remains aware that thieves are always looking for new ways to break in or steal cars and it is prepared to provide consumers with the latest technology as well as safety tips on how to prevent property theft.

The anti-theft devices in combination with safety tips and precautions can have a huge affect on how easy it is for a thief to break in and steal a vehicle. Auto thieves however, are known for being persistent and innovative and car theft continues to be a big problem in cities and even in suburban areas.

Ford Motor Corporation is determined to make is as difficult as possible for thieves and has been steadily developing new technology and improving old technology, in order to keep its customers safe from the threat of vehicle theft.

Naturally, no anti-theft device can be 100% full-proof, but the hard it is for a thief to break in, the less chance he/she will have of making off with a vehicle successfully. Ford is improving and developing security features which are meant to deter thieves from trying to break into the car.

Some of the new technology which has been developed by Ford includes, keyless doors, which means they are operated only by the push of a button, which would make it more difficult for a thief to force entry. It also provides more protection for the driver, who can then get into the car more quickly, without have to fumble with keys. Keys can also be kept safe from theft as the driver does not need to take out the key in order to open the door.

Another technology is an entry-passive start. This allows the driver to lock and unlock the engine when turning it off or starting it. Intrusion sensing systems are able to sense when windows are smashed and sets off an alarm and have been helpful against break-ins. The company has also developed a panic alarm which will allow the driver to call attention to the vehicle in case there is a thief. Another alarm system can be used to detect unauthorized entry through areas such as the hood, truck or doors.

Windows and other surfaces are also fitted with registration numbers and engravings which will mean that the thief will not want to steal the car because it will be difficult to resell without completely redoing all surfaces and windows in order to use a false identification number for the stolen vehicle.

Wheel locks have also been shown to be highly effective in preventing thieves from getting away with the stolen vehicle. Vehicle tracking systems are also popular as a way to protect vehicles. -auto-types.com

1.44 milion US dollar Golden Dartz Kombat Unveiled at the 2011 Chengdu Auto Show: Live Video, Specs and Details

2011-09-24T18:46:00.000+08:00

Perhaps some of you have never heard of Dartz. Based in the old Russo-Balt factory in Riga, Dartz is a Latvian manufacturer of armored vehicles who has recently achieved notoriety for their line of luxury armored SUVs, including the T-98 Kombat and the Prombron, the latter of which was originally available upholstered in leather made from the foreskin of whale penises.

Well, one of their most recent achievements, the Dartz Kombat debuted last week at the 2011 Chengdu Auto Show in China, the manufacturer also setting the price tag on their unique armored vehicle. Such an impressive car come, as expected with an impressive price: 9.18 milion yuan or 1.44 milion US dollar, at current exchange rates.

For this amount of money you’ll get a bullet proof car, with 7cm full body armored truck. Because of this heavy armor, the Dartz Kombat weighs over three tons, being powered by a 8.0 liter eight-cylinder engine with 456hp, good for a 240km/h top speed, according to Dartz.

Below you can watch the video shooted at the stand at the show, displaying a lovely lady, the gold plated Bellperre mobile phone and a bottle of Wodka, RussoBaltique Vodka to be precise. Why is this vodka so specia? It isn’t. Is just nothing more than 1,7 liter of Vodka inside a 7,8 kilograms Golden bottle. The drink is best served with RussoBaltique Caviar by Mottra, according to Dartz.-speedlux.com

MV-1 van is designed specifically for wheelchair users

2011-09-24T18:43:00.000+08:00

The AM General auto assembly plant in Mishawaka, Indiana is where they used to build Hummer H2s. Now, its workers are making something a little less ... controversial. It's a van called the MV-1, MV standing for "Mobility Vehicle," and it's designed specifically for wheelchair-using passengers. Its designers claim that it is better suited to the handicapped than converted conventional vans, and the first factory-built model rolled off the assembly line yesterday.

A product of Miami's Vehicle Production Group, the MV-1 has a large 56 x 36-inch (142 x 91 cm) side door, and a 1,200 pound (544 kg)-capacity deployable ramp that stows under the floor when not in use. It can accommodate two wheelchair-using passengers, or one wheelchair and five additional traditionally-seated occupants, if the optional jump seat is used. Floor tracks are used to secure wheelchairs and scooters. The non-handicapped driver sits behind the wheel in a regular-style seat - perhaps future versions could allow wheelchair users to also drive, using something like RUVID's hand control device?

The vehicle is based around a body-on-frame configuration, and is powered by a Ford 4.6L 2V EFI V8 engine with an electronic four-speed automatic transmission. For the energy and/or environmentally-conscious, however, a factory-installed Compressed Natural Gas fuel system is also available. Vans with the CNG system should have a driving range of approximately 290 miles (466.7 km).

More specs and other information can be found on the MV-1 website, where vehicles can also be ordered. The base SE model is priced at US$39,950, for American customers only.

The following video illustrates how the van accommodates wheelchair-using passengers.-gizmag.com

2012 Honda CR-V concept revealed

2011-09-24T18:41:00.000+08:00

The 2012 Honda CR-V Concept has made its public debut at the Orange County International Auto Show in Anaheim, California not in Frankfurt where all the attention currently is.

The all-new, fourth-generation CR-V is set to go on sale in the United States by the end of the year and will debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show in November.

“The 2012 CR-V Concept strongly hints at the more dynamic and refined look of the upcoming model,” said John Mendel, executive vice president of sales for American Honda. “As the best-selling SUV in each of the past four years, the 2012 CR-V promises to build on its highly successful formula with even more style, innovative features and higher fuel economy.”

Compared to the current-generation CR-V, the concept model takes on a more aggressive stance with deeper sculpting of the body lines and a bolder front fascia. The front bumper’s smooth-flowing lines are highlighted by a horizontal three-bar grille and deeply set multi-reflector headlights. The lower front bumper wraps smartly upward to convey SUV capability with a generous approach angle, while the lower front bumper design now integrates more smoothly with the fascia for improved aerodynamics.-globalmotors.net

Fiat Project L-Zero MPV to Be Produced in Serbia in 2012

2011-09-24T18:25:00.000+08:00

Back in February, we brought you news of the Fiat B-Segment vehicle called Project L-Zero. Futher light has apparently been shed on the project, as numerous sources indicate the vehicle will be an MPV based on the their B-segment platform platform.

Automotive News reports that full production will start in Serbia starting May or June of Next year. The vehicle is likely to be based on a platform shared by the 500 and Panda and could become a successor for the Fiat Idea and Lancia Musa models.

The car is intended primarily for the European market, according to Antonio Cesare Ferrara, head of Fiat Automobili Srbija, Fiat's joint venture with the Serbian government.

"In a later stage it may also be offered in the United States, but primarily Europe," Ferrara told reporters on Wednesday at the FAS plant in Kragujevac, Serbia.

Production figures are unknown, but the facility has enough capacity to produce a quarter of a million cars per year.
The L-Zero is expected to be a five-seater in basic form, but a seven-seater will also be made.

Fiat's investment in the production facility will reportedly reach 850 million euros ($1.16 billion) by the end of the year, including the cost of cleaning up and rebuilding the decrepit Zastava facilities, and importing "state-of-the art production equipment" from Germany, Italy and Japan.

We should see the first prototypes and test vehicles popping up in spyshots by the end of the year.-autoevolution.com

Ford E-Bike Concept From Frankfurt Motor Show Not Far-Fetched

2011-09-21T21:10:00.000+08:00

Lost in the shuffle of concept-mania at this year’s Frankfurt Motor Show is the newly unveiled Ford E-Bike Concept. It’s not hard to see why Ford’s Eos Concept got all the attention – after all, it is an auto show – but the modern, minimalist electric-bike design is a gawk-worthy entrant itself.

The E-Bike Concept features a cross-gender design, and a 53-mile range from an electric motor in the front-wheel hub and an integrated lithium-ion battery within the frame. That range is aided by Ford’s F1-inspired “KERS” system, in which magnetostriction sensors convert magnetic energy into kinetic energy. The sensors read the front wheel’s revolutions and relay this information to the control unit, where it activates or deactivates the electric motor, providing a seamless integration of leg and electric motor power.

Ford says the E-Bike is just a concept and that it has no plans for production, but there is a niche market and precedent for an optional bike trim level. Volkswagen offered the Jetta Trek in the late 1990s, and Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Audi, and even Maserati, have all recently offered bicycle trims.

The Ford E-Bike could be a great option for the Edge Hybrid, forthcoming Focus Electric, and the Transit Connect Electric—a utility van in which many of its drivers perform short-distance deliveries.

“The E-Bike market is growing very, very rapidly, with some 30 million units sold globally last year,” said Axel Wilke, director, vehicle personalization, Ford Customer Service Division Europe. “We see E-Bikes as an important element of urban electric mobility. More and more people are using E‑Bikes for short distance commuting and they are becoming comfortable with the concept of electric mobility.”--blogs.automotive.com

Rowan Atkinson on McLaren F1 crash

2011-09-20T21:13:00.000+08:00

Rowan Atkinson has unveiled a one-off Rolls-Royce Phantom - complete with secret laser weapon - which features in his latest spy spoof film, Johnny English Reborn.

At the Frankfurt Motor Show he spoke publicly for the first time about the crash that wrecked his own 370km/h McLaren F1 supercar, which can accelerate from 0-100 in 3.2 seconds.

“I can’t blame the car. It was wet,” he said.

Asked if the car was back on the road, the 56-year-old actor, who is also an accomplished amateur racing driver, laughed and said firmly: “No.”

The repair bill will be huge.

“I haven’t had the estimate,” he said. “But I have had the estimate for the estimate.”

The Mr Bean star injured his shoulder when his Woking-built three-seater - which he’s driven for 60,000km - hit a tree at Haddon, near Peterborough, last month. The car caught fire, but he was able to walk away.

Rolls-Royce is owned by German giant BMW, but its cars are still assembled in Britain. Former BMW boss, Dr Bernd Pischetsrieder, wrote off a McLaren F1 in 1995 when he was head of the company. In the film, English drives a specially adapted Phantom he calls “Royce”. It has the personalised registration number “JE 1” and features a giant (and real) one-off, nine-litre, 16-valve engine, which he demonstrated to visitors.

But the on-screen secret weapon is a Spirit of Ecstasy bonnet mascot with metal-cutting lasers mounted in its eyes. In one scene, the beams cut out an exact silhouette of the Phantom on a metal door, before the car drives through it.

Atkinson has owned two £300 000 (R3.5 million) Rolls-Royce Phantoms - a four-door and a two-door coupé - and is awaiting delivery of a third.

The actor has a collection of five cars including a 1964 Ford Falcon, an Eighties Aston Martin V8 Zagato, an Audi A8 and a more thrifty Honda Civic hybrid.

Does he have anything else on his shopping list? My spies spotted him on the Ferrari stand admiring the topless 458 Spyder.

Rolls-Royce used the show to announce a £10million expansion plan at its factory at Goodwood, which is set for a year of record sales.

It is set to exceed 3000 sales this year following a 171 per cent increase to 2711 in 2010.

The boom is accelerating as a result of the new £200 000 (R2.4 milllion) Ghost - the “baby” Roller - which is outselling the bigger £300 0000 (R3.5 million) Phantom at a rate of four to one.

Chief executive Torsten Muller-Otvos said: “We continue to see increased demand from customers all over the world.”

The Rolls-Royce factory is in the grounds of the Earl of March’s estate at Goodwood, West Sussex, which this weekend will host the popular Revival motoring extravaganza.

Rowan Atkinson will be there as usual, but won’t be driving due to his injury.

This year’s Revival will celebrate the 50th anniversary of the iconic E-Type Jaguar, whose two-seater 21st-century successor, the C-X16, stole the show at Frankfurt, where it was unveiled this week.

Dressing up in period costumes to reflect the eras of cars on show - from the Forties to the Sixties - is all part of the fun and truly transports you back in time. - Daily Mail

Tap-to-pay Google Wallet launched

2011-09-20T21:12:00.000+08:00

Smartphones are in the process of replacing cameras, phonebooks, land lines and maps ... and wallets are next. First announced in May but just launched today, the Google Wallet free app allows its users to store electronic versions of their credit cards on their smartphone, and pay for items simply by tapping their phone on a near field communication (NFC) reader at a store's front counter.

A number of retailers, along with one financial institution and one carrier are on board, and so far Google Wallet is compatible with the Citi Master Card along with Google Prepaid Cards, that can be "loaded" using any existing credit card. Currently it only works with Google's Nexus S 4G phone, on the Sprint network. Needless to say, the number of cards, devices and networks is expected to grow soon.

It can be put to use at merchants that display a MasterCard PayPass symbol at their till. Users simply enter their PIN on their phone, tap the device on the merchant's NFC reader, and the payment is electronically made. At some retailers, electronic coupons and loyalty points will also be passed along. Participating businesses can be found using the MasterCard PayPass Locator for Android app.

Special Google Offers will also be made available to users, and will automatically sync with their Wallet.

Down the road, Google would also like to see the Wallet containing things such as gift cards, tickets, boarding passes, and even electronic house keys. Google Walletcan be downloaded now, free of charge.-gizmag.com

Mansory Siracusa Unveiled at 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show: Live Video, Photos and Specs

2011-09-18T20:03:00.000+08:00

If you’re a tuning company, the 64th edition ofInternational Auto Show in Frankfurt seems a good place for a worldwide debut. Well, one of the companies who believe this is the luxury tuner Mansory who was present at theFrankfurt Motor Show presenting its latest creation, the Siracusa, based on the Ferrari 458 Italia.

This project wasn’t received very well in some people opinion being considered a blasphemy. Still, in many eyes looks better than the original supercar. However, we let you decide if it’s better or not.

Thanks to its ECU remap, sport air filter and sport exhaust, the Mansory Siracusa is now delivering a total output of 582 BHP and 560 Nm of torque (413 lb-ft). With this massive power, this car is able to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.2 seconds, whith a 330 km/h top speed.

Pretty impressive, isn’t it? That’s not all, of course. In order to make it more stable, the tuner fitted new sport shock absorbers and lowering springs by 20 mm. As for the wheels, the supercar is riding on 20 and 21 inch rims, wrapped in Michelin PS2 tires, with 245/35R20 for the front and 305/30R21 for the rear.

The interior of the Siracusa now has top materials including leather, carbon fiber, along with a new redesigned center console, a sport steering wheel with a full-sized airbag, decorative stitching and aluminum pedals.

So far, the tuning company Mansory didn’t announce a price for its Siracusa, but as soon as we find something new, we’ll let you know.

Exora facelift and new C-segment sedan revealed

2011-09-16T16:07:00.000+08:00

PROTON has announced that it will be coming out with a facelift of the Exora and also a premium version of the MPV.

Proton's managing director, Datuk Sri Syed Zainal Abidin Syed Mohamed Tahir said Malaysians can expect this facelifted Exora in two months time.

The facelifted Exora is also expected to feature Proton's latest update on its 1.6L engine, the turbocharged Campro.

From the slide, changes were made to the headlights (black-out treatment), new front grille and bumper and a complete bodykit.

The B, C and D pillars too are blacked out.

Spyshots and our own encounters with the Exora Turbo show that the left of the two side slots on the front bumper houses the intercooler for the turbo unit.

Our sources inform us that the turbo is tuned more for fuel economy and a little boost in torque.

Zainal also informed the press that the Exora Prime will be introduced.

"This is a premium version of the Exora and will only seat six," he said.

Also on the slides are illustrations of its new P3-21A sedan which Proton announced to be their global car.

The car will fight in the B/C sedan segment and is benchmarked against the best in the class.

Focus has been given to ensure the new car offers class leading figures in performance, fuel consumption, ride and handling, cabin space and luggage space.

The car is slated to be launched in March 2012 and it will also be equipped with Traction Control, developed by Bosch.-cbt.com.my

Frankfurt Motor Show: Volkswagen Polo R

2011-09-16T16:03:00.000+08:00

We may never get a roadgoing version, but Volkswagen would like us to see what some of its rally heroes will be using to kick up muck around the world: the Polo R WRC.

A production version might pack a 1.6 litre turbo engine, as this one does, but we don't imagine it would roll off the lot with the same Golf R-swatting 220kW of power and 350Nm of torque.

A four-wheel-drive system will propel the 1200kg Polo R charge through the mud, gravel and ice of the demanding circuits on the WRC calendar. There are no details however of the particular system deployed below or whether it's related to the Haldex technology used in the roadgoing Golf R.

The Polo R's 1.6 litre engine is also perfect for new WRC rules that come into effect this year, prescribing engines with direct injection, turbocharging and a maximum displacement of 1600cc.

The rally-bred Polo R gets the usual race-car treatment, including a stripped-out interior, protective cage, a wider track and the flared panels to go with it.

"The new Technical Regulations of the World Rally Championship are an ideal fit for Volkswagen's philosophy with respect to the development of production vehicles," said Dr Ulrich Hackenberg, Member of the Management Board of the Volkswagen Brand, Development Division.
"The timing of the WRC debut is optimal for Volkswagen. The big task of engineering a vehicle that is competitive and capable of winning at a large number of challenges holds great appeal for us."

If a roadgoing Polo R is produced, it will likely draw more from the upcoming Audi S1 than from its purpose-built rally counterpart.

Officially, plans for a roadgoing race-inspired Polo R remain unconfirmed, and pricing the model without cannibalising sales of the company's other performance models will be key.

Now that Ford looks ready to unleash a Polo GTI rival in the form of the new Fiesta ST (still a concept for now), it may be time for Volkswagen to up the ante.-themotorreport.com.au

Frankfurt: 2012 Formula Ford revealed

2011-09-16T15:59:00.000+08:00

Who said that the Frankfurt Motor Show was only for production cars and the most extreme vehicles presented would be the ones “made” by world known tuners, and besides the DTMs unveiled by Audi and Mercedes and Dacia’s 800 horsepower Pikes Peak Duster, Ford’s turn came up to reveal its new 2012 Formula racing car.

“Ford’s global kinetic design philosophy is also echoed in the new-generation car, giving fans of the championship a style they can easily recognize. Car manufacturers will still be able to add that crucial individual touch to their cars though, with only the requirement to keep specific parts developed for aerodynamic equivalence mandated in the regulations”, as it is written in an official Ford statement.

The automaker says that its 2012 Formula Ford is powered by a production-based 1.6 liter Ford EcoBosst direct injection, turbocharged engine, which will be delivering 163 horsepower and 220 Nm of torque, connected to a six-speed sequential transmission with mechanical shift mechanism, sending power to the rear wheels.

After presenting its new Formula racing car for the year 2012, Ford stopped releasing any extra details, but not before saying that besides the traditional blue and white paint, the car has a tubular steel chassis, side intrusion panels and carbon fiber front and rear crash structures, making it eligible to compete in a variety of international events.-inautonews.com