Brabus Ultimate 112 based on smart fortwo 2008

(from Brabus Press Release) The exterior is custom-painted a flaming mother-of-pearl/orange color, the interior is upholstered in black BRABUS leather and Alcantara with orange seams, and it has lots of power under the hood: BRABUS (www.brabus.com) presents the limited-edition special model BRABUS ULTIMATE 112 at the Frankfurt International Auto Show IAA 2007. The ULTIMATE 112 is based on the smart fortwo and is a true city sports car. And as such it represents a unique combination of extravagant equipment, sporty performance and agile handling.

In addition to the custom paint the BRABUS ULTIMATE 112 sets itself further apart with a muscular body kit that includes a front spoiler, rocker panels and BRABUS WIDESTAR fender flares front and back.

The large wheel houses offer ample space for a tire/wheel combination that is highly unusual for a car of this size: The glossy black BRABUS Monoblock VI double-spoke wheels are mounted on the front axle in size 7Jx18 with size 205/35 R 18 high-performance tires. In the rear 8.5Jx18 wheels with size 235/30 R 18 tires provide plenty of grip to transfer the power of the engine to the road.

Specially calibrated to these ultra-low-profile tires and the wider track is the height-adjustable BRABUS coil-over suspension that combines direct, safe and sporty handling with great ride comfort.

With these modifications the ULTIMATE 112 offers the perfect platform for the powerful BRABUS three-cylinder turbo engine. As the exclusive special model’s name reveals, the engine produces 112 PS (110 hp) / 82.4* kW at 5,750 rpm. Even more important for everyday driving is the for this vehicle class exceptional peak torque of 150 Nm (111 lb-ft), available over a wide rev range from 2,800 to 4,200 rpm.

Shifting in the BRABUS ULTIMATE 112 is done either automatically or with steering-wheel paddles just like in Formula 1 racing. The paddles are mounted to an ergonomically shaped BRABUS sport steering wheel.

With sprint times from 0 – 60 km/h (0–37 mph) in 3.9 seconds and 0 – 100 km/h (0-62 mph) of 9.5 seconds and an electronically limited top speed of 170 km/h (106 mph) the convertible also sets the performance benchmarks in its class.

This performance is accompanied acoustically by the BRABUS stainless-steel sport exhaust and its dual tailpipes made from cast aluminum.

Exquisite highlights also abound in the interior of the ULTIMATE 112: The especially soft and breathable black BRABUS Mastik leather is stitched with orange seams.

The BRABUS interior concept includes embossed BRABUS emblems as well as instrument panel, instrument bezels, tach, speedometer, clock, turn-signal lever and door handles, all color-coordinated with the exterior. Stainless-steel foot pedals with anti-slip padding together with an aluminum shifter and emergency brake lever add touches of racing atmosphere.

A climate control system, radio and a navigation system are also part of the standard equipment of this open two-seater.

The BRABUS ULTIMATE 112 is being built in a limited-edition series of just 112 cars, each sporting a consecutively numbered placard in the interior. The BRABUS ULTIMATE 112 sells for 45,900 Euros MSRP.

© Source: seriouswheels
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2007 Pagani Zonda R

(from Pagani Automobili Press Release) While we certainly cannot say the Zonda F lacks performance figures, driving around the Nrburgring in 7:32 and achieving lateral G forces of almost 1.5 G, it is however a road car, easy to drive, intuitive and setting the benchmark for comfort, safety and lightweight. Paired with a quality finish and the attention to detail this made the Zonda F one of the most desirable supercars resulting in the 25 Coup models being sold out in record time.

This did not seem to fulfil the requirements of our most demanding customers, who adore the weekend drive on a racetrack.

The spark has been set by an Italo-American customer, enthusiast and already proud owner of 3 Zondas. He describes the project this way: The thought has been on my mind for quite some time, but I am not interested in racing.

The Zonda R is born with full liberty. The target: the ultimate performance at the racetrack without any implications of rules, except for safety, where no compromise is allowed.

In September 2006 the first drawings were ready, but it was crucial to have the support of Mercedes-AMG for a high revving engine with a power output of 750hp, dry sump, light and with a low centre of gravity. The basis was the self supporting engine of the mighty CLK GTR, which has dominated the GT championships.

Even at constant racing pace the engine would have to cover over 5.000 km before servicing. The challenge has been accepted without hesitation.

The Zonda R is a car designed from scratch, with only 10% of the Zonda F components to be carried over. The suspension forged in Avional, a new Pagani six speed transversal sequential gearbox, carbon fibre monocoque, aeronautical four pump fuel tank are only part of the equation.

The wheelbase has grown by 47mm, the overall length by 394 mm and the track is increased by 50mm. The bodywork and aerodynamics have been studied to offer maximum downforce. Even though built for the track, the project would not have received kick off, if the quality and finish of the car and its details was not up to the level of the Pagani road cars.

One of the first cars to be delivered however will be kept in a living room, designed by Pagani and built with the same materials as the Zonda F, beautifully textured carbon fibre, avional, titanium, inconel and other state of the art materials. Additionally it will feature a bespoke HiFi System that will allow the customer to listen to the sound of this car at Le Mans and the Nrburgring.

The Pagani customers who have ordered the Zonda R will be relieved of almost 1.2 million + taxes.

Technical Specifications for Zonda R

This Zonda is purpose made for track use, without restrictions of any competition rules or homologation, with the only exclusion of the passengers integrity, where no compromise is tolerated according to our philosophy and state-of-the-art safety measures are featured.

A new heart

The engine is built by the racing specialists at Mercedes AMG, where the championship winning DTM cars are born, as well as the CLK GTR, probably the most devastating and effective weapon ever to compete in the GT series. From its engine the Zonda R borrows the basic architecture including an ingenious dry sump allowing a low centre of gravity. This self-supporting engine with 750 hp at 8000 rpm and 710 Nm of torque carries a lightweight carbon fibre highperformance intake system, a racing multiple disc sintered clutch and Formula 1 style exhaust system, hydroformed in Inconel 625 and ceramic coated for optimal heat dissipation. The power unit combined with a 6 speed transversal manual sequential synchronised gearbox is designed to satisfy the most ambitious drivers.

The chassis

The central carbon chassis will incorporate a roll cage and a rubber racing fuel tank with 4 fuel pumps and quick refuel filler like on GT race cars. The wheelbase has been increased by 47mm to offer the best stability. The front and rear subframes are brand-new, built to accommodate a new suspension geometry, produced in avional. The magnesium forged rims with central wheel nut and a quick pneumatic lifting system allows fast and effortless changes of the slick tyres.

Bodywork and aerodynamics

The new bodywork has been honed to offer elevated downforce even in low speed corners. The longer front bonnet with flaps, closed underbody and the rear overhang with the adjustable rear wing and race derived diffusor translate into shattering aerodynamic efficiency and will let you experience cornering speeds beyond imagination. The car displays and logs information about the amount of dowforce that the car is generating at each moment. Combined with the adjustable wings you can easily find the best setup for each track.

Workstation

The interior is designed to accommodate the driver and passenger in bespoke seats, built to offer the best support, when the G-forces from the vehicle dynamics come into question. The Digitek instrumentation provides the essential information and a sophisticated telemetry allows through a variety of sensors to monitor every single component of the car.

© Source: seriouswheels
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Toyota IQ concept on Frankfurt show

Toyota has gone small at the Frankfurt show with this, the little IQ concept.

A tiny vision of a future Toyota urban car, the IQ is genuinely dinky: measuring just under three metres in length, it's 40cm shorter than the brilliant Mitsubshi i and 42cm shorter than Toyota's own Aygo.

But, despite such modest proportions, Toyota says the IQ will fit four passengers. Thanks to a swooping dash, the passenger seat has more space than the driver's, which means it can be set further forward to create a decent-sized space behind.

There's just about enough room behind the driver to squeeze one more, too - Toyota calls the IQ a 3+1, which is a new one to us.

You can make up your own mind on the IQ's styling - we reckon there's something a bit of Lord of the Rings Orc about the pointy little nose and wide mouth - which Toyota describes as 'on-the-edge'. Some people will doubtless love it.

Unlike the similarly sized VW Up! Concept also on show in Frankfurt, the IQ keeps its engine up front. Exactly what engine remains to be seen, but we'd expect something small - quite possibly the 1.0-litre, three-cylinder unit in the current Aygo and Yaris.

Then again, with the IQ unlikely to make it anywhere near to production for a good couple of years, there could be something really different under there. Can you turn hobbits into biofuel?

© Source: topgear
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Mini Cooper S John Cooper Works Tuning Kit 2008

MINI USA OFFERS JOHN COOPER WORKS TUNING KIT FOR NEW MINI COOPER S

Woodcliff Lake, NJ - August 30, 2007… MINI USA announces the availability of the John Cooper Works Tuning Kit for the all-new MINI Cooper S introduced this year. The new kit, designed specifically for the Cooper S with a manual transmission and its twin-scroll turbocharged engine, offers increased horsepower and torque over that of the standard model.

The tuning kit is just the latest addition to the successful line of MINI’s high performance John Cooper Works accessories which include suspension upgrades, performance wheels and tires, body kits as well as exterior and interior appearance accessories. A John Cooper Works Tuning kit calibrated for the MINI Cooper S with an Automatic transmission will be made available later in the year.

The John Cooper Works Tuning Kit boosts the output of the twin scroll turbocharged engine from 172 to 189 horsepower. Maximum torque is also boosted from 177 foot-pounds between 1,000 and 5,000 rpm to 185 foot-pounds between 1,750 and 5,000 rpm. With MINI’s overboost function, peak torque for the kit reaches a temporary level of 200 foot-pounds between 1,750 to 4,500 rpm.

Compared to the previous generation John Cooper Works Tuning Kit the new kit offers an improvement in performance at a significantly lower price while requiring fewer changes in components and labor time. Notable performance improvements are seen in the accelerations times:

2006 MINI Cooper S with JCW Kit 2007 MINI Cooper S with JCW Kit

0-60 MPH 6.5 seconds 6.5 seconds

50-75 MPH 4th gear 6.4 seconds 5.3 seconds

50-75 MPH 5th gear 6.7 Seconds 6.6 seconds

50-75 MPH 6th gear 8.9 seconds 7.6 seconds

The unique John Cooper Works kit is sold exclusively through MINI dealers and is covered under MINI’s comprehensive new car warranty. Key features of the new 2007 John Cooper Works kit include a redesigned high-flow air intake box with a performance air filter element, a low-restriction dual pipe sport exhaust with larger diameter chrome tips and special reprogramming of the electronic control unit to improve throttle response and overall performance. The kit is also tastefully distinguished by JCW badges on the exterior of the car as well as under the bonnet.

The air box that comes with the John Cooper Works Tuning Kit features a larger aperture to allow more fresh air to enter though a special low restriction filter element. In addition to dramatically increasing the airflow, the new air box creates a more powerful induction sound that compliments the impressive growl from the performance exhaust, also part of the kit.

The enhanced Electronic Control Unit (ECU) programming has been recalibrated to optimize power output and drivability, resulting in lively throttle response and increased acceleration in the mid-range torque band. The reprogramming optimizes the power output by managing all engine control functions including airflow, combustion, fuel delivery and spark advance.

The stainless steel Sport Exhaust System is a parallel-flow, low backpressure system with superb interior and exterior noise quality. The system adds a throatier, more powerful exhaust note, and has distinctive-looking twin chrome exhaust tips engraved with the John Cooper Works logos.

Visual cues for the kit are understated and will appeal to the MINI enthusiast. Unique chrome John Cooper Works badge adorns the front grill and rear deck lid. Under the bonnet the low restriction air box is also distinguished with a John Cooper Works logo.

The John Cooper Works kit is sold and professionally installed through all MINI dealers in the U.S. A MINI Cooper S equipped with the dealer-installed package is fully backed by MINI’s 4 year, 50,000-mile new car warranty. Owners of an existing MINI Cooper S may visit their local MINI dealer and have the kit installed at any time. The balance of the factory warranty will still remain in effect. The full 2007 John Cooper Works kit retails for $2,100.00 plus a recommended 2 hours of labor for installation.

The Cooper name is forever entwined with MINI, originating with the 1961 MINI Cooper, which was developed by John Cooper. Recognizing MINI’s inherent motorsport potential, Mr. Cooper’s team produced cars that took numerous race titles, and the MINI Cooper S became the stuff of legends with three Monte Carlo Rally wins between 1964 and 1967, driven by greats such as Paddy Hopkirk and Rauno Aaltonen.

© Source: seriouswheels
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2008 Mini Clubman

Additional Member of MINI Family Offers Flexibility, Fun and Performance

The wraps are now off the new MINI Clubman, an all-new addition to the MINI model range. With an anticipated international debut this fall, the MINI Clubman will go on sale in Europe this November in three model configurations: the MINI Cooper Clubman, the MINI Cooper D Clubman and the MINI Cooper S Clubman. In the US market the MINI Cooper Clubman and the MINI Cooper S Clubman will be available early next year. Although US pricing has yet to be announced, the MINI Clubman is expected to be positioned between the MINI hardtops and MINI convertibles.


The eagerly anticipated MINI Clubman will be like nothing else on the road and defies convention in its concept and style. With its hallmark design elements, the MINI Clubman is clearly a MINI from every angle. Yet it is the MINI Clubman's unique rear-end design and new proportions that distinguish it from other members of the MINI family.

The unique character of the MINI Clubman is obvious at first sight. The roofline of the car extends across all three pillars, merging smoothly into the rear section where the innovative, split-rear doors open. The rear doors are further highlighted with the C-pillars painted in a contrasting silver or black finish. Inside, the generous luggage compartment may be further extended in flexible configuration, offering very easy and convenient loading options thanks to the two rear doors.

In addition, the MINI Clubman incorporates a rather ingenious door configuration on the right side of the car. The "Clubdoor" swings open in the opposing direction relative to the main passenger door to dramatically increase the access to the rear seating area. Behind the front seats, the new MINI Clubman offers remarkable rear seating comfort and flexible use of space. Rear seat passengers now enjoy 3.15 inches more legroom compared to the MINI hardtop.
The MINI Clubman also stands out, retaining all the handling and performance characteristics that one expects in a MINI. With its design, functionality and performance characteristics, the MINI Clubman is the modern successor to the legendary classics Morris Mini Traveller, Austin Mini Countryman, and Mini Clubman Estate.

© Source: seriouswheels
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2008 Bugatti EB 16.4 Veyron "Pur Sang"

Bugatti EB 16.4. Veyron “Pur Sang” by Achim Anscheidt, Head of Bugatti Design

Visitors to the Atelier in Molsheim are always intrigued to see the Veyron’s high-tech components being meticulously assembled into an automotive work of art. Watching the car coming together, coupled with an admiration for the technical beauty of its structure, gave the designers the idea of finishing the car in its pure material configuration – meaning no colour coating. The result is the EB 16.4. Veyron “Pur Sang”, a two-tone study of pure materialness showing the car’s true essentials: carbon and aluminium.

The carbon monocoque holds the engine plus the passenger cell, while the polished aluminium panelling is enhanced by reflections in the sculpted bodywork. Interestingly, the rawness of the materials even more strongly highlights the dual character of this car: performance power coupled with cruising comfort, structure and body, dark and light.

A closer look at the details reveals the technical logic behind this stylistic appearance. The sophisticated monocoque contains all the core structural components, including the W16 engine, the passenger cell, the crash box and the linkages to the wheels. It is this purpose-driven fundament that is visible as the centre of the car in clear-coated carbon fibre.

Equally consistent is the use of the aluminium panelling. This lends shape and a unique body sculpture to the car, covering the wheels in a muscular and powerful expression by way of elaborately shaped fenders. Highly polished, these perfectly tensioned shapes strongly visualize the fascinating surface reflections that define every Veyron.

The balanced graphic appearance is also visible when looking down onto the car from above. These qualities take on a distinct appearance – almost like that found in a Mondrian painting. As its pur sang label suggests, this individualised customer car shares the same kind of DNA as that of classic cars from the Bugatti past: the “Atalante”, the Type 55, the Type 41 “Royal” all had an unmistakeable and characteristic graphic signature. It is this precise division of performance components and body panelling – in this form – that makes the EB 16.4. Veyron “Pur Sang” unique in the supercar world.

© Source: seriouswheels
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2007 Volkswagen up Concept

Volkswagen –International Motor Show, Frankfurt 2007 World Premiere of the up!

World premiere: Volkswagen up! concept car with rear engine. Multivariable: City specialist offers more space, more variability and more fun

Concept

The up! is a city specialist, a car for four persons and all languages, for the job, the university, the drive to the beach and the excursion outside the city gates. A small car that shows a lot of size, because it offers more space than any other car of similar length

(3.45 meters) and width (1.63 meters). Its engine – conceivable here are all facets of technology that can be sensibly applied – will run in the rear. And that changes everything: Space, mood and design.Walter de Silva, Chief Designer of the Volkswagen group, sums it up like this: “The up! is not a car whose form will become obsolete within a very brief period of time. It shines in its cleverness and yet is made with loving care. And so the up! is a clear and strong statement for future Volkswagen design.” Furthermore, the team of designers and engineers has envisioned the up! concept car as the first member of an entire model line; other facets are entirely conceivable.

Ralf-Gerhard Willner, Director of Concept Development, has final responsibility for the technical layout of the up! He and Walter de Silva had already achieved a new balance in the mutual interaction between form and function at Volkswagen before the start of the project. “Absolute harmony of the basic technological concept and the emotional aspects of the design”, note Willner and de Silva in unison, “can only be achieved in a hard clash of ideas between engineers and designers. That is the only way to produce icons.” That is precisely why the up! is not your run-of-the-mill, small, tightly packed car, but instead is a clever, innovative whole. Its form is pure. It just had to look like this, no other look would do. There is nothing superfluous, and its functionality – and so also its design – speak for themselves. Simultaneously – and this is typical of Volkswagen – uncompromisingly attention was given to refining every line and every surface until we had created a friendly and masterful car.

Exterior design

The fact that the engine of the up! runs in the rear has a decisive influence on its exterior design. That is because the up! has no classic radiator grille. It forges links to the Beetle. This fact alone gives it a great deal of independence. Dominant design characte-ristics are the headlamps that take an inward and diagonal line, between them the horizontally arranged air vents, the VW logo (as one of the few details kept in chrome), the tailgate that extends far forward and the smooth bumper with a circumferential black stripe as a detail of the “happy face” that is typical of Volkswagen.

In many areas, technology and design have melded into a vehicle architecture that is not only appealing, but is also very utilitarian. The rear end of the up! is a good example of this. The tailgate was produced using a transparent material. Under this gate developers also integrated the high layout of the taillights. Another feature that is technically and visually new is the location of the VW logo in the tailgate; it is also located behind glass and illuminates when the light is on. The rear bumper was designed to match the “happy face” in front.

The powerful appearance of the up!, despite all of its compactness, is emphasized by a very wide track width (1.42 meters) relative to vehicle width. The wheels are flush with the sporty outboard wheel arches and side skirts. The radial design of the wheels and surfaces extending right up to the edge of the rim make the 18-inch wheels appear significantly larger than they actually are.

The wheels that are arranged far outboard in the bumper areas reduce body overhangs to a minimum. All of these features are part of an unmistakable side profile with a very long roof arch as well as clear and large surfaces. Giving shape to its style here are the large doors and the lateral window surfaces, which incline sharply upward at the height of the rear wheel arch and thereby help to form the very independent C-pillar design.

Interior design

Mounting the engine in the rear opened up entirely new interior concepts. Relative to its exterior size, the space offering is exceptionally forward-thinking. The same is true of its variability: Except for the driver’s seat, all other seats can be folded and removed. Since they are designed as light shells, they can be quickly stowed in one of the cargo areas – besides the front trunk there is also one in the rear – to free up space. Afterwards, the entire passenger compartment length can be utilized as a storage area for especially bulky objects.

To achieve the high level of seating comfort that is usual at Volkswagen, besides their ergonomic design, in the case of the up! this level of comfort is also attained by a simple yet very effective trick: Similar to a self-inflating air mattress, air can be sucked out of the seat surfaces via a valve. This means that the seats can be adjusted 1:1 to the body anatomies of the occupants who have just taken a seat.

© Source: seriouswheels
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Nissan Altima Coupe 2008

all-new 2008 Altima Coupe, which is scheduled to go on sale in summer 2007, fills a desire among target customers for a more personal expression of style and individuality. Based on the next generation 2007 Altima sedan, the new Coupe’s exterior design is intended to stand out in a crowd of sedan-based two-door models with its sophisticated, perfectly proportioned styling. The Altima Coupe features a shorter wheelbase, overall length and height than the Altima Sedan.


The smaller size and lighter overall weight also contribute to the Coupe’s sportier driving feel – another desired attribute of the typically younger, more performance-oriented coupe buyers.

The Altima Coupe will be available with a choice of the award-winning VQ-series 3.5-liter V6 or powerful 2.5-liter inline 4-cylinder engines, each offered with either a 6-speed manual transmission or Nissan’s advanced Xtronic CVT™ (Continuously Variable Transmission).

Also offered is a long list of user-friendly technology features – including standard Intelligent Key with Push Button Ignition, available Bluetooth® Hands-Free Phone System, an advanced touch-screen navigation system with XM™ RealTime Traffic updates and RearView Monitor.

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Citroen C-Cactus Concept

CITROEN C-CACTUS: A NEW ECOLOGICAL AND ATTRACTIVE TAKE ON THE ESSENTIAL CAR

Citroen is unveiling C-Cactus at the 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show. This ingenious concept is a new take on vehicle design, centered on essential values. The Marque's ambitious aim is to market an ecological hatchback with cheerful, attractive styling, equipped with a hybrid HDi drivetrain and sold at the same price as an entry-level C4.

To square this complex equation, Citroen is exploring new forms of design. It has decided to abandon features that are not essential to comfort and to focus instead on technology, styling and equipment that are positive, ecological and valued by users.

C-CACTUS Essential, intelligent and ecologically aware

The economic and ingenious solutions adopted for C-Cactus keep production costs down and make it possible to fit a diesel hybrid drivetrain, all for the price of an entry-level C4. To achieve this result, C-Cactus places the emphasis on equipment that is essential to passenger comfort. At the same time, it explores new design processes in order to show that economy and ecology need not be synonymous with a rough ride.

C-CACTUS A modern car with appeal

Based on the bold but rational use of parts and materials, C-Cactus is an essential vehicle reflecting a new vision of the car focused on:

- a new balance of priorities, and a design that pursues the essential without sacrificing comfort,

- a design in which ecology and economy are synonymous not with dullness, but with expression and pleasure.

Through this attractive concept with its appealing offbeat styling, Citroen has developed a new take on the economical and ecological car. A vehicle at ease with its original and ingenious design. At the same time, this is a car that brings the occupants all the features essential for their comfort.

© Source: seriouswheels
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2007 JE Design Audi Q7 Wide Body Kit

500 wild compressor horses: Audi Q7 with wide body kit from JE DESIGN

True to the motto of "everything or nothing", the car styling specialist from Leingarten,Germany, customizes the Q7 to create an impressive car. In addition to the muscular wide body kit, which makes this Audi look even more powerful, JE DESIGN is also offering a performance enhancement, new rims and an electronically lowered suspension.

Brute supercharger power!

2.3 tons of unladen weight are not that easy to gloss over. With that much weight, every scrap of power and every Newton meter of torque counts. The basic specifications of the 4.2-litre Audi Q7 do indeed make quite an impressive read. After all, 257 kW / 350 bhp, 440 Nm at 3500 rpm, a top speed of 151 mph and 7.4 seconds for the sprint from 0 - 62 mph are not exactly chicken feed. But JE DESIGN turns the Q7 into real high-flyer, with no less than 500 supercharged horses (368 kW) rearing and bucking under the hood. 600 Nm of torque, available at 3,850 rpm, propel this heavyweight from a standstill to 62 mph in just 5.6 seconds. And it does not stop till it reaches an impressive 169 mph. The supercharger conversion includes a water-cooled intercooler, an exhaust system from the manifold, special forged pistons and modified engine management. JE DESIGN also takes care to ensure that the Q7 still complies with the emissions regulations. The conversion also includes TЬV certification.

Muscular styling kit

JE DESIGN lends the Audi Q7 greater width and an awesome-looking stance. The styling kit includes headlamp lens caps, which lend the car a more aggressive look. Fitting the impressive front spoiler helps to reduce lift. It can also lend the Q7 greater prestige when overtaking. Also, it is possible to equip this Audi SUV with a set of JE DESIGN twin headlamps, which look far better than the original headlamp design. JE DESIGN enhances the appearance of the rear end by equipping the Q7 with a new tailgate skirt attachment, which incorporates diamond-shaped openings on the right and left. In each of these openings belongs a JE DESIGN dual tailpipe from made permanently shiny, corrosion-resistant stainless steel.

The upper part of the rear end is also spectacular, which JE DESIGN adorns with a wing spoiler tail fin including a C-pillar trim. A feature that is sure to get heads turning. The same also applies to the JE DESIGN fender flare kit "WIDE BODY", for which matching door panels are also available. In front of the rear fenders, air inlets lend the car a sportier look, without appearing "plump". JE DESIGN is offering the muscular look as a complete body-styling kit which is cheaper than buying all single parts piece by piece.

Which rim?

Also when it comes to rims, JE DESIGN does not miss a thing. First off, the tuning specialist offers its complete set of wheels JE DESIGN "361" in the dimension 10 x 22 ET 20 (front) and ET 10 (rear) fitted with size 295 / 30 R 22 Y tires. The rims are also sold separately and are specially adapted to the wide body kit. Secondly, JE DESIGN offers a complete set of wheels AZEV "R-Wheel" in the dimension 10 x 22 ET 50 with size 295 / 30 R 22 Y tires. These rims are also sold separately . For rims with a wheel offset of 50, JE DESIGN recommends using its aluminum track extensions, which add an extra 60 mm width on the front axle and as much as 80 mm on the rear axle.

The fine figure of the JE DESIGN Q7 is rounded off by an electronically lowered suspension, which the car customizer from Leingarten offers for cars with air suspension and which finally helps the JE DESIGN Q7 to morph into a true racing SUV.

© Source: seriouswheels
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2008 Audi A8

Sporty luxury and exemplary efficiency

- New A8 2.8 FSI offers the lowest CO2 emissions in its class
- Consistent enhancements across the model series
- A new driving experience in one of the world's quietest cars

The Audi A8 not only offers the sportiest performance of any luxury-class saloon, it also stands out as a model of efficiency. A particularly outstanding example is the new A8 2.8 FSI: superlative performance and excellent comfort make it a joy to drive. But at the same time, with a standard fuel consumption of 8.3 l/100 km, its CO2 emissions of 199 g/km are the lowest in its class.

The new A8 model series features major advancements across the range, which includes the top models Audi A8 W12 and Audi S8, and offers a new driving feel whilst building on traditional strengths. An even more precise driving feel, even better ride and acoustic comfort, and subtle refinements to the exterior and interior serve to strengthen the special status of Audi's flagship model.

Unique character – consistently enhanced

To achieve this, many aspects have been refined in the unique blend of sportiness, elegance, supreme control and sophistication that forms the Audi A8 character. For instance, the more direct steering and re-engineered running gear have produced even more exact handling. Overall travelling comfort has also been enhanced by the modified adaptive air suspension and extensive improvements to noise insulation. These make the Audi A8 one of the world's quietest and most comfortable saloon cars.

The new assistance systems Audi lane assist and Audi side assist promise to make life easier for the driver and considerably enhance safety, especially on long journeys. Their tasks are to alert the driver if the car begins to drift out of its lane and to warn of vehicles in the adjacent lane.

Luxurious, sporty motoring with low fuel consumption

The 2.8 FSI impressively demonstrates how well the Audi A8 combines luxurious, sporty motoring with high efficiency and low fuel consumption. Its efficiency nevertheless comes with exciting performance, as the new high-tech V6 engine produces 154 kW / 210 bhp and delivers its maximum torque of 280 newton metres over the broad rev band of 3,000 to 5,000 rpm. With acceleration of 0 to 100 km/h in just 8.0 seconds and a maximum speed of 238 km/h, the Audi A8 2.8 FSI is an effortlessly powerful performer.

High-tech engine with lightweight design concept

Thanks to its state-of-the-art engine and an exceptionally low vehicle weight of only 1,690 kilograms, the A8 2.8 FSI has a standard fuel consumption of just 8.3 litres per 100 kilometres. That is equivalent to CO2 emissions of 199 grams per kilometre – the lowest value of any luxury-class car. Here the dual benefits of low vehicle weight – thanks to lightweight aluminium design based on Audi Space Frame technology – and low wind resistance make themselves felt, in both excellent performance and equally good fuel economy.

The new six-cylinder engine demonstrates "Vorsprung durch Technik" with FSI petrol direct injection and the innovative Audi valvelift system. This new technology adjusts the valve lift, varying it between two levels. The Audi valvelift system uses sliding cam units mounted on the intake camshaft, which are moved by an electronic control mechanism. Depending on the engine power demand, the valves are opened wide or less wide as determined by the position of the cam units.

The advantage: the required quantity of fresh charge can be very efficiently controlled via the valve opening. Most of the time, the throttle valve remains fully open, thus substantially reducing throttle loss. In combination with a series of additional measures to reduce friction on numerous components, the Audi valvelift system reduces fuel consumption by ten percent.

High power transmission comfort with athletic qualities

The new A8 2.8 FSI is equipped with front wheel drive and the multitronic continuously variable automatic transmission. The multitronic not only offers unmatched power transmission comfort with fully jolt-free acceleration, its tall overall gear ratios make for very fuel-efficient motoring. Nevertheless, the seven fixed ratios available in manual mode reveal its thoroughly athletic qualities.

In Germany the Audi A8 2.8 FSI with its extensive standard equipment costs from 61,900 euros incl. VAT.

Consistently enhanced

The A8 impressively embodies the progressiveness of the Audi brand: its extremely rigid lightweight body based on the Audi Space Frame principle, the powerful FSI and TDI engines, quattro permanent four-wheel drive and the highly acclaimed MMI operating system are a few of the elements that demonstrate Audi's impressive "Vorsprung durch Technik" in the luxury class.

The character of the Audi A8 is formed by a synthesis of dynamic and agile performance and exceptionally refined ride and acoustic comfort. While setting new standards with its agility and steering precision, the A8 displays handling with definite sports car qualities. Even long journeys are both relaxing and pleasurable.

To underscore the unique character of this luxury saloon, Audi has further enhanced the two major strengths of the A8. The rack-and-pinion steering with variable steering ratio and servotronic speed-dependent power assistance has been optimised and engineered for a more direct feel. The dampers, supports and tuning of the adaptive air suspension have been revised. As a result, the A8 shows an even more spontaneous response to steering input, tightly follows winding country roads and effortlessly maintains a smooth straight line at high speeds.

Air suspension with even more sensitive comfort

Gains in performance and handling are matched by those in ride comfort: the standard-specification adaptive air suspension is now even more sensitive in responding to fine bumps. The electronically controlled variable dampers are now fitted with new seals to reduce friction. These are combined with new valves that have optimised characteristic curves, and the entire hydraulics have also been retuned. The A8 absorbs expansion joint grooves with supple ease and without even the hint of a vibration. With the addition of an insulation package to reduce rolling noise and road noise, the luxury saloon from Audi offers outstanding comfort.

Exemplary soundproofing

Even the complete acoustics of the A8 have been optimised with the use of innovative materials – after all, Audi approaches noise insulation as a component of its intelligent lightweight construction. The result: without gaining weight, the Audi A8 achieves the lowest rolling, road and ambient noise levels in its class. Being one of the quietest cars in the world is an important element of the relaxing long-distance comfort that is a hallmark of the Audi A8.

Assistance systems bring comfort and safety

Drivers of the Audi A8 can rely on the support of the most up-to-date assistance systems. They serve to enhance comfort and combat driver fatigue on long journeys, thus making an important contribution to safety. The new Audi side assist in the A8 makes use of intelligent radar technology.

The system is especially designed for lane-changing manoeuvres and warns the driver of dangerous situations: whenever there is another vehicle in the critical zone, a yellow LED display in the exterior mirror housing lights up and remains on.

If the driver of the A8 activates the indicator to change lane even though the warning display is lit up, the LEDs become brighter and flash more quickly at shorter intervals. This signal is almost impossible to miss as the peripheral vision of the human eye is extremely sensitive to changes in contrast.

Audi lane assist warns the driver to prevent an unintentional departure from the lane. A small camera positioned above the interior mirror on the windscreen observes the road ahead of the car and a high-speed computer detects the lane marking lines. If the driver moves towards one of these lines without indicating, Audi lane assist makes the driver aware of this by a vibration in the steering wheel.

Still a step ahead in the luxury class

The clear and progressive design idiom of the Audi A8 stands out for its timeless quality. The exterior design has thus only been accentuated at carefully chosen points – from the modified single-frame grille and new exterior mirrors with integrated turn signals to the new wheel designs and LED tail lights with their innovative night design. To complete the range, the A8 is available in new paint finishes and with sophisticated aluminium trim inserts plus new interior colour schemes and inlays.

The Audi A8 thus resolutely continues its progress on the road to success. With sales of over 100,000 vehicles so far, the current model has already exceeded the total sales volume of its predecessor. And it is continuing to make gains year by year in a market segment that has remained flat overall. How come? Because the A8 steadily attracts customers from other brands with its clear character, while at the same time product loyalty and repurchase rates among A8 drivers are above average.

© Source: seriouswheels.com
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2007 Hamann Conqueror based on Range Rover Sport

For those who think a normal Range Rover Sport does not impress onlookers enough, HAMANN now offers his modified version „Conqueror". Equipped with a wide body styling kit, the Range certainly will receive astonished looks. But HAMANN not only provides the SUV an impressive aerodynamics kit. The German tuners for example also have a variety of power upgrades, interior accessories and wide body compatible 23 inch wheels to offer.

To ensure that the performance on tarmac with such a heavy vehicle as the Range Rover doesn't disappoint, HAMANN starts out by tuning the engine. Both with the 2.7 liter V6 Diesel and the 4.4 liter V8, the Laupheim-based tuning specialist optimizes the characteristic maps. By recalibrating the series ECU, the Diesel generates 165 kW/225 bhp at 4000 rpm, the torque being a solid 510 Nm even at 1900 rpm. Following the modification, the 4.4 liter naturally aspirated engine generates an impressive 238 kW/323 bhp at 5500 rpm and 450 Nm at 4000 rpm. Look out export customers - the HAMANN SPORTKIT for the series V8 supercharged engine turns the Range Rover Sport into a real racer! To achieve the power boost to 349 kW/475 bhp at 5740 rpm and the maximum torque of 610 Nm at 3500 rpm, a number of tuning measures are required. In addition to optimized characteristic maps, HAMANN modifies the supercharger ratio and installs a sports high-performance header, sports metal catalytic converters and a sports rear muffler.

The latter emphasizes the sound of the newly acquired power. HAMANN offers the 4-pipe sports rear muffler with round stainless steel tailpipes (diameter 90 mm each) also independently of the power boost for all V8 engine configurations. For the 4.4i V8, a sports high-performance header and sports metal catalytic converters are also available (both exclusively for export).

Breite „Conqueror"-Optik

Otherwise committed to the British sense of understatement, when equipped with its new aerodynamic body kit, the HAMANN Range Rover Sport speaks a different language. Because with the wide body styling kit the Range becomes the „Conqueror" of the street. For instance, HAMANN fits a far sportier front apron with two integrated high beams and a pair of fog lights. HAMANN adorns the sides with side sills and wheel arch extensions make the Range appear much more imposing than before. At the rear end, a rear apron provides the counter pole to the front spoiler. A roof spoiler allows the Range Rover Sport to run smoothly at higher speeds. To complete the picture, HAMANN fits air inlet trims from carbon fiber.

To ensure that this juggernaut also stops quicker, HAMANN equips a sports braking system on the front axle, thus making a significant contribution to the safety. The system itself consists of two slotted and inside-vented brake discs in the dimension 380x34mm, two HAMANN eight-piston fixed caliper brakes in red (other colors available subject to an extra charge) plus special brake pads and steel flex brake pipes.

Rims in 20 to 23 inch models

HAMANN is offering no fewer than five wheel designs. Since large cars only look good with large wheels, HAMANN offers both designs PG3 and ANNIVERSARY I in 22 inch versions. The Laupheim car customizer fits the PG3 wheel, a composite rim, in the ‘Silver' edition with a high-gloss varnished rim flange. The large 10.5x22 rim with a sporty five-spoke design is available from HAMANN also as a complete set of wheels fitted with tires in the dimension 295/30 ZR22 103W Hankook Ventus ST or 315/30 ZR22. The ANNIVERSARY I is a single-piece rim with a multi-spoke design which conveys a sense of lightness of foot. HAMANN supplies them in the ‘Silver' edition with an INOX stainless steel lip adorning the flange. It is possible to fit this rim with the same tire sizes as the PG3. A "Conqueror" of course only carries weight when fitted with biggest wheels. For a grand entrance HAMANN recommends its design EDITION RACE (see photos). This multi-pieced, forged light alloy metal wheel with black wheel spider, "Y" spoke design, Titan bolts and high polished rim flange HAMANN offers in size 11,0Jx23 with tires in the dimension 315/25R23.

For export, HAMANN also offers the ANNIVERSARY I rim as a 20 inch version, the ANNIVERSARY II as a 22 inch version and, as the highlight of the rim range for the Range Rover Sport, the ANNIVERSARY RACE rim in a chunky 23 inch design (10.5x23).

The stylish HAMANN rims harmonize beautifully with the electronically lowered suspension, which lowers the body of the Range Rover Sport by 40 mm at the front and by 30 mm at the rear, thus bringing the car closer to the road.

"Internal affairs"

Inside the car a motor racing touch is given by fitting an 8-piece carbon fiber interior set, which includes a decorative trim (4 piece) for the center console and door surrounds for the front and rear. The pedals are also adapted in keeping with the sporty look, with these being replaced by aluminum counterparts. A driver's footrest is also available in aluminum. And the exclusive set of HAMANN foot mats by no means marks the end of the interior tuning. Since, needless to say, HAMANN will customize any Range Rover Sport to suit each customer's individual requests. By way of example, lavish leather upholsteries in various colors are possible, as are extensive multimedia conversions featuring a DVD, TV or Playstation.

© Source: seriouswheels
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2007 AC Schnitzer BMW Z4 M Coupe Profile Concept

The concept PROFILE by AC Schnitzer based on the Z4 M Coup

Take the first ascent of the 8,848 metre high Mount Everest, the expeditions to the poles or the dive into the 11 km deep canyon of the Mariana Trench. There have always been individuals and extreme characters who have pushed our boundaries and discovered new terrain. An extreme region for automotive tuners, where only a few venture, has always been the BMW M-series cars, in particular the uncompromising Z4 M-Coup, a thoroughbred driving machine.

But the fact that the limits of this extraordinary car are far from reached is evident from the new concept vehicle by AC Schnitzer - the PROFILE - even at first glance. Classic engine tuning hauls the power of the high-revving six-cylinder in-line plant to a robust 350 HP. Not only is a special "active breathing" airbox used, but the engine control unit has been remapped. But power alone isnt enough to get the maximum from an athletic heart. So the modified rear axle ratio of 3.91:1 provides better sprint capacity, while the perfectly smooth transmission with the AC Schnitzer Short Shift ensures crisp changes by the driver.

And as you listen to the sonorous baritone note of the left/right sports exhaust system with the trapezoid tailpipes, you could be deceived into thinking that the driver is not changing gears, but playing some kind of a musical instrument. A feast for all the senses: Visually the stunning colour combination of white-orange casts its spell and perfectly enhances the exquisite contours of the AC Schnitzer bodykit. From the front skirt with its suggestive cup-wings via the widened wheelarches and flanks with the gill-like vents - as already used on the legendary BMW 507- the dynamic line is drawn over the bulging side skirts to the rear skirt with carbon diffuser.

The whole is crowned by a rear spoiler and a fascinatingly styled roof wing. The forged alloy Type V wheels from the standard AC Schnitzer collection are a work of art in themselves. Filigree design yet with an air of solidity, in size 9.0J x 20" at the front and 10.0J x 20" at the rear, these wheels are the perfect adornment combined with tyres size 235/30 ZR 20 front and 295/25 ZR 20 rear.

But traction alone isn't everything, and the dynamics are supported by the AC Schnitzer suspension with its racing heritage, set up in the Green Hell of the Nrburgring. An aluminium strut brace in "Racing style not only catches the eye but limits the torsion of the front body. Thanks to the AC Schnitzer racing seats, the driver always holds position. And the carbon interior trim and pedal set, with decor elements of aluminium, radiate pure racing flair. Could there be a better place to experience the limits of potential?

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Bentley Continental GT Speed 2008

New 600bhp Continental GT Speed extends the worldwide appeal of Bentleys iconic GT coupe 1 August, 2007 - The most powerful production Bentley ever and the first to top 200mph.

- Inspired by Bentleys legendary Speed models of the1920s.
- A harder-edged, more sporting Bentley driving experience.
- Builds on the success of Bentleys iconic Continental GT coupe.

The Continental GT Speed is the most powerful production Bentley ever and the first to top 200mph (322km/h). A potent addition to the companys highly successful Continental series, the GT Speed extends the appeal of the Continental GT coupe to driving enthusiasts who place a high value on outright performance and agile handling.

The exterior style of the new Continental GT and GT Speed models is defined by a wider, lower air intake and more upright radiator grille that also provide increased airflow to the more powerful GT Speed. Its 600bhp (610PS) W12 engine develops 15 percent more torque and nine percent more power than the standard Continental GT, while engine efficiency is optimised by the use of lower friction, lighter-weight components and a new engine management system. The resultant performance is exceptional, with a top speed of 202mph (326km/h), a zero to 60mph sprint time of just 4.3 seconds (0-100km/h in 4.5s) and effortless overtaking capability.

Complementing the Continental GT Speeds high performance is its unique chassis tune that delivers tauter handling and improved agility, with new, wider 9.5J 20-inch wheels and bespoke performance tyres as standard fitment. Fade-resistant carbon ceramic brakes are available as an option. Subtle design touches, including a dark-tinted front grille and larger sports tailpipes, reinforce the sporting character of the Continental GT Speed.

Inspiration for the GT Speed came from the legendary Speed models that first appeared in 1923. The standard Bentley 3-litre had already established Bentleys engineering superiority in terms of roadholding, handling and braking, but W.O. Bentley, the companys founder, recognised the market potential for a more potent version aimed at the enthusiast driver who demanded superior performance. His response, the 3-litre Speed Model, complete with twin SU carburettors and a higher compression ratio engine, became one of the most coveted of all Bentleys.

Both the GT Speed and the 552bhp (560PS) Continental GT benefit from internal efficiency improvements to deliver reduced fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. The Continental GT remains outstandingly quick its top speed is unchanged at 198mph (318km/h), with a 0-60mph sprint time of 4.6 seconds (0-100km/h in 4.8s).

The all-wheel drive Continental GT changed the face of the luxury coupe market and attracted a wider audience to the Bentley marque. It also represented the first step in Bentley's renaissance, positioning the company at the pinnacle of both technology and consumer aspiration. Since its launch, demand for a sportier version of the Continental GT was met by the successful introduction of the 2005 GT Mulliner Driving Specification and the limited edition GT Diamond Series in 2006, to celebrate 60 years of Bentley at Crewe. Now, with the launch of the Continental GT Speed, customers will enjoy even greater choice. Bentley Chairman and Chief Executive Dr Franz Josef-Paefgen welcomes the expansion of the Continental GT model offering:

The Continental GT is a highly successful, modern-day Bentley icon. The new GT Speed, with its harder-edged character and sportier driving experience, builds on this success.

© Source: seriouswheels
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