Kia No3 Concept, 2009

 

 

Kia No3 Concept, 2009

The all-new, Kia No3 concept car.
The concept features a unique extended windscreen and panorama glass roof with a diagonal supporting bar, an automatic sun visor and the evolving 'face of Kia' which displays the front grille, head lamps and brand logo in a new constellation.

The 4045 mm long concept, which is finished in matt Titanium Grey with contrasting gloss-white accents, stands out from the crowd with its powerful proportions, dynamic lines, a modern, sophisticated interior and generous cabin space for flexible use. It delivers urban utility with a sporty touch.

The car brings all the features and strengths of a highly versatile multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) into the urban compact class, combining up-to-date mobility with individual style. Kia No3 excels in particular through its unique design language characterised by refreshing clarity and modern, youthful sportiness.

Compact sportiness combined with versatility and spaciousness creates a unique interaction and a truly innovative style in Kia No3. The new concept car establishes the image of the brand and Kia's new design philosophy that will extend beyond the segment of compact cars. The fresh 'face' of the brand is clearly characterised by the proportions of three crucial elements and the relationship between them — the new radiator grille, the extra-large headlights, and the brand logo placed precisely on the centre-line, create a new 'constellation' that will also be highlighted on Kia's future models.

Extremely short overhangs accentuate the compact exterior dimensions of the car, powerfully contoured bumpers and large wheel arches as well as extra-large diameter wheels, bring out the sporty character of Kia No3. The concept clearly boasts a dynamic wedge shape characterised in particular by the window graphics and the lines rising up to the rear. The rear light clusters are wrapped distinctly around the side panels.
Nineteen-inch light-alloy wheels running on all-weather high-speed tyres, provide a clear hint at the car's sporting performance. The wheel rims, painted black on the outside and finished in glossy chrome on the inside, exude a strong feeling of power.

Kia No3's long wheelbase (2615 mm) and short overhangs front and rear, together with generous height (1600 mm) and width (1760 mm), provide all the features and qualities typical of an MPV. Extra comfort and space, plus the economic use of the available space are ensured by the ergonomically ideal, slightly elevated seating position. The split rear seats are adjustable independently, with sliding and folding functions.

An extra-large panorama glass roof extends directly out of the windscreen and stretches all the way to the rear spoiler. The result is not only excellent all-round visibility, but also a truly generous feeling of interior space. A diagonally arranged roofbar barely breaks the elegant, seemingly uninterrupted flow of the tinted glass surface.
The highlights of the car's exterior design — modern style, individual character, sporty performance, and unparalleled diversity — also characterise the interior, taking up and repeating the contrast of high-gloss white and black surfaces. Kia No3 clearly demonstrates the highlights of Kia's future in interior design, with the focus on sophisticated materials, top-quality finish, stylish features, and the most advanced IT technology — all combined with a contemporary lifestyle feeling.

The Kia No3 is the forerunner of future production model which will combine compact B-segment exterior dimensions with the interior spaciousness and versatility that is more typical of a C-segment car. The concept's name 'Kia No3' is related to the production car's position (third in terms of size after Picanto and Rio) in the future Kia model line-up.

Iveco Massif, 2008

 

 

 Iveco Massif, 2008

The Iveco is one of the few makers worldwide to offer a full range of all-wheel-drive vehicles. With Iveco Massif, the new 4x4, the Italian company breaks into a completely new professional transport segment, harking back to the memory of a glorious ancestor that won Fiat Group a prominent place in the history of off-road vehicles: the Fiat Campagnola.

The Iveco Massif signals Iveco's first entry into the light off-road vehicle segment, and with two body styles. The spirit of the Massif follows in the tyre tracks of the Fiat Campagnola, the Italian Army standard-issue jeep designed in 1951 that became an icon in Italy in an age when the country still lacked a modern road infrastructure. The Campagnola was an important symbol for postwar Italy and the reconstruction of the 1950s, still fresh in the Italian collective memory. However the Campagnola meant even more than this: in the white livery of the Popemobile, it is inseparably associated with the appearances of John Paul II, a Pope who ushered in a new way of reaching out to the faithful. Still in white, but now bearing the UN insignia, the vehicle contributed to a large number of international peacekeeping missions in every continent of the world. From its ancestor, the Iveco Massif has taken the robust versatility and workmanlike appearance of a vehicle designed for demanding tasks, but without losing sight of operating economy.

A Serious Off Road Working Vehicle
The new Iveco Massif is a rugged 4 wheel drive vehicle for serious off-road applications. The vehicle is based on the structure that was used for the first sports off-road vehicles, before they were "urbanised" into sport utility vehicles, mainly for on-road use. It signals a return to the roots of 4x4 utility vehicles, removing the off-road/on-road compromise: this is, in short, a serious, professional, off-road workhorse and it intends to be seen as such. But seen with style, courtesy of Giugiaro.

The Iveco Massif is a genuine, go-anywhere off-road vehicle with high performance and able to tackle extreme off-road terrain with ease. It boasts a fully-laden gradeability of 100%, an approach angle of 50°, a departure angle of 30° and a ramp angle of 24°. Its fording capability in standard trim is 500 mm and its under-axle ground clearance is 200 mm with standard wheels and tyres. The four-wheel-drive can be disengaged to provide rear wheel drive for optimised on-road fuel economy.

Iveco Massif is  in a long wheelbase (2768 mm) version as a 5-door station wagon, pick-up truck and chassis cab, and in a short wheelbase (2452 mm) version as a 3-door station wagon. All versions are available in both right and left hand drive.

Iveco Massif is  in a wide range of variants and configurations, offering maximum productivity in every type of mission: 2 engines and 4 versions, with product configurations that can be changed according to the market and the customer. And naturally, to all this is added the maximum versatility in the pick-up and chassis cab configurations for specific transport missions.

Iveco - a full range of all-wheel-drive vehicles
Iveco Massif 4x4 competes in a small but very important niche market of 4x4 work vehicles. Iveco Massif is produced jointly with Spanish maker Santana: their original vehicle was completely revised by Iveco experts with support on a massive scale in terms of technologies and solutions derived from the Daily. Iveco Massif is actually the true heir to the Daily 4x4 floor plan, well-known for its performance in military and civilian situations in the form of the VM 90, used by the armed forces and civil defence corps of many countries. Iveco Massif shares its engageable all-wheel-drive architecture, with the transfer box flanged to the gearbox to lower the vehicle's profile as far as possible, making it perfectly adapted for long, rapid on-road transfers and demanding off-road missions at the destination. The end result of this extensive re-engineering is a vehicle that's ready to take on missions that would need an "off-road lorry". Iveco's expertise in the 4x4 market spreads right across the commercial vehicle range, from light to heavy - Daily, Eurocargo and Trakker - covering every type of mission and all working conditions. These all wheel drive vehicles are exceedingly rugged, and are ideal for taking personnel and equipment where they are most needed, often in emergency conditions. And the reliability of these vehicles is second to none, whether they are operating under extreme or normal conditions. Even driver comfort is not compromised by the stresses and strains deriving from off-road driving - not always the fun pastime it would seem.

Outstanding power train combination
Iveco Massif uses two highly successful FPT engines: the 3.0 HPI rated at 146Cv and 350Nm of torque and the 176CV HPT with 400 Nm of torque, coupled to the ZF 6S400 6-speed transmission. This outstanding power train combination is taken from the Daily product range and is well proven on all counts of reliability, performance and low fuel consumption. Coupled to the power train is the transfer box and, via the transmission shafts, also the front and rear drive axles. The transfer box provides a high-range drive ratio, approximately 1:1, and selection of all wheel drive. The low-range ratio provides all-wheel-drive only. An optionally available freewheel front hub control is available to prevent transmission wind-up when 4-wheel-drive is used on firm ground conditions. The parking brake is mounted on the rear axle output flange of the transfer box, resulting in a more powerful braking torque as it is multiplied by the drive axle ratio. This is an extremely important feature since it means that Iveco Massif can be held on the parking brake on all of the incredible gradients it is able to climb.

Maximum cab comfort
The cab interior is perfectly designed to give maximum comfort to the driver and passengers, even in the turbulent off-road driving conditions for which the Iveco Massif range is designed. Seat upholstery is in fabric or leather, but for heavy-duty missions a robust synthetic material is available. The rubber floor mats in the cab are easy to clean. The in-cab instrumentation meets the requirements of a serious off-road machine. The gear shift and transfer box controls are floor-mounted and within easy reach of the driver. Air conditioning is optionally available to further improve driver and passenger comfort.

Like the latest Trakker and Daily models, the Iveco Massif is designed to demonstrate Iveco's fundamental values towards excellence: Commitment, Reliability, Performance, Team Spirit and Power. Values that Iveco Massif shares with the New Zealand national rugby team, the All Blacks, who in their history have won more titles than any other team. To confirm this sharing of values, for its launch the Iveco Massif is being presented in black livery and tattoos to evoke the unmistakable spirit of the All Blacks.

The values of Iveco Massif
Iveco Massif was created from sharing the same values that made the All Blacks the most famous rugby team in the world, following in the tyre tracks of the new Stralis, Trakker and Daily 4x4 models.

In addition to the four Iveco values - Commitment, Reliability, Performance, and Team Spirit - Massif also inherits the Stralis's product value, Power, reaffirming one of the strong points that distinguish the excellence of Iveco's engineering solutions.

Power
For Iveco Massif, power means offering the latest generation 3-litre EGR engine with a rated power of 146 Cv and a maximum torque of 350 Nm. An efficient, reliable engine with optimized power and torque delivery over a wide range of engine speeds to ensure maximum power availability even in arduous conditions. Also available is the 176 CV version with Variable Geometry Turbocharger, developing 400 Nm of torque, recognised to be the best engine in its class.

Commitment
Iveco Massif Commitment is the sense of responsibility towards the customer's business but without forgetting the comfort and safety of the people who spend most of their time in the actual vehicle. The close family relationship between Iveco Massif and the other vehicles in the Iveco range is clearly evident: highly ergonomic cabins and enhanced driver comfort that is comparable to road vehicles. But Iveco Massif customers are also offered a unique design, because respecting the driver also means offering them an aesthetically pleasing vehicle.

Reliability
For Iveco Massif, Reliability means keeping promises: product reliability, durability and high safety standards in every situation. Reliability for Iveco Massif also means flexibility for body builder intervention supported by a wide range of transmission and transfer box PTOs, easily accessible electric connections for bodywork, and more besides.

Performance
For Iveco Massif, Performance is supporting the customer's business value. It means raising productivity and reducing running costs. Iveco Massif's assets are optimised bodybuilder intervention, servicing downtime, and consumption. Periodic maintenance time is minimised so that the vehicle spends as little time as possible in the workshop. And an always-present, vital consideration is fuel cost: Massif's Euro 4 engine returns excellent fuel consumption.

Team Spirit
Team Spirit means working alongside the customer for the entire lifetime of the vehicle: during product development, through the work of Iveco's specialist engineers and R&D centres that involve the customer right from the design stage; during the purchase, with the support of professional dealers and financing solutions to meet all company needs; during the vehicle operation, through a 24/7 call centre and an efficient and wide-reaching service network (more than 3,000 service points in over 100 countries).

IVECO MASSIF IN DETAIL
The Iveco Massif vehicle and the industry sector in which it competes is new to Iveco. Today Iveco offers customers in this important niche products and services that fill the entire range of their customers' needs. When commercial vehicles are required to go off road in the most arduous of conditions - both weather and terrain - it is never just to supply equipment: there are people in that vehicle, too. Iveco's all-wheel-drive products - Trakker, Eurocargo 4x4 and Daily 4x4 - handle this task perfectly. And Iveco Massif completes this range, being able to take the crew required to do the work, together with their tools.

Cab and chassis features
All Iveco Massif versions are mounted on a separate chassis with axles mounted on parabolic leaf springs. This is a no-compromise solution: a separate chassis ensures the high structural stresses incurred during serious off road applications are not carried into the body structure to the extent that body durability is compromised. The road springs assist axle location and body suspension without the need for extra drive- and braking-force reaction members or axle location links to the vehicle chassis.

Giugiaro style
Massif bears the Iveco family appearance with its radiator grille. Body styles are available in 3 and 5-door station wagons, a pick-up with integrated load carrying area, and a chassis cab only version for third party body mounting. The separate chassis provides for passenger/load compartment body mounting, and driven front and rear drive axle mounting connected to the remote transfer box.

The external body appearance reflects Giugiaro styling in a highly functional manner, reflecting the serious off road mission of Iveco Massif. Scuff resistant body parts around the wheel arches, lower door panels and around the rear light units recognise that the vehicle will obviously be used to travel on terrain that will deliver bumps and scrapes aplenty, as you would expect on a serious off-road mission. For customers who would wish to have the vehicle's capabilities less obvious, the plastic parts and roof are available in the same colour as the body Tinted windows to the rear of the driver's compartment and aluminium wheels are all available to complete the picture.

Interior enhancements such as cloth or leather seat covering materials are available, as is a leather-covered steering wheel rim. For missions where severe (pressure hose) cleaning of the cab interior is required, there are variants with highly-resistant rubber floor mats and vinyl seat covering.

Radio/CD player and satellite navigation systems are available to order. Seat availability is matched to body type; the chassis cab and pick-up versions are available only with the standard driver and single passenger seat, the 3-door station wagon has a 4-seat (2+2) layout with the simple 2 seating rows option and the 5-door station wagon has a 5-seat (2+3) layout with the simple 2 seating rows option or a 7-seat (2+3+2) option.

State of the art engines
At the heart of Iveco Massif is the FPT 3.0 litre HPI engine derived from the Daily range. This 4 cylinder, 16 valve turbocharged Diesel engine with high pressure common rail fuel injection system is very much state of the art, providing excellent fuel economy and performance. A maximum of 350 Nm of torque is available over an engine speed range of 1400 - 2800 revs/min. The maximum power of 146 Cv is provided at engine speeds from 3000 - 3500 revs/min. The engine is certified to the Euro 4 exhaust emissions requirements using exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) to control combustion-generated NOx and an oxidising catalyst to fully oxidise all exhaust gas components. Iveco Massif is also available with the 3.0 litre HPT engine, equipped with a variable geometry turbocharger with a rated power of 176 Cv at an engine speed of 3200 - 3500 rev/min and a maximum torque of 400 Nm at 1250 - 3000 rev/min; a power unit unique in its category.

Transmission and transfer Box
The ZF 6S400 overdrive 6-speed transmission is coupled to the remote-mounted Santana transfer box, providing either 4x2 or 4x4 traction. In high range the drive is to the rear wheels only, unless the specific selector is set to 4-wheel-drive. Selecting low range automatically engages 4-wheel-drive. The transfer box is not equipped with a differential facility and so, under 4-wheel-drive conditions, loss of adherence by either the front or rear wheels does not result in loss of traction. In addition an optional rear axle differential lock is available, as is an automatic front hub freewheel facility which reduces transmission wind-up when 4-wheel-drive is used on firm surfaces. The transmission in combination with the transfer box provides for 12 forward gear ratios and 2 reverse gear ratios.

Front and rear driven axles
Beam drive axles are used both front and rear and have a common final drive ratio of 3.909:1. The final drive gearing used on the front axle is helicoidal whereas that on the rear axle is a hypoid gear set in order to provide improved ground clearance for the centrally-mounted drive shaft.

Wheels and tyres
The standard version comes with 235/85R16 all-terrain tyres. Off-road tyres mounted on steel wheel rims are available as an option, as are aluminium wheel rims.

Suspension system
Parabolic leaf springs are used for the front and rear axles, performing the dual role of chassis suspension and drive axle location. This relatively simple suspension layout provides for better drive and braking torque reactions without the need for extra links and bracketry, a definite plus for the serious off-road vehicle. Double action hydraulic dampers are used for the front axle and double action gas dampers are used for the rear, and anti-roll stabiliser bars are fitted front and rear.

Maximum front and rear axle plated masses are 1072 kg and 2150 kg respectively; plated vehicle mass is 3050 kg.

Braking system
A double 'H' hydraulic circuit with vacuum servo-assistance is used to actuate ventilated disc brakes on the front axle and simple discs on the rear axle. The parking brake is a cable-actuated drum brake mounted on the transmission transfer box and therefore giving the advantage of the park brake torque with a multiplication factor equal to the drive axle ratio. Mechanical brake force distribution is used for all models when the vehicle is under 4-wheel-drive operation, and the optional Antilock Brake System (ABS) provides an electronic brake force distribution under 4x2 driving conditions. The ABS can be deactivated for certain off-road conditions.

Italdesign Emas3 Concept, 2010

 

Italdesign Emas3 Concept, 2010

The Emas3 is the City interpretation: the five-door configuration has been left unchanged while the architecture has undergone drastic changes to reduce the wheelbase by 550 mm to contain the total length within just 3 metres.
The doors used are the same as on the Country version, 1350 mm and allowing easy access, even to rear seat passengers.

The front-end emphasises the different outfit: unlike its big sister, the fog lights are trapezoid in shape and joined by a large rectangular air intake.
The tailgate, produced specifically for this version, is more upright in order to ensure plenty of passenger headroom and acceptable load capacity despite the compact exterior.
The passenger room drops to 3+1 Plus seats. The passenger seated behind the driver has less leg-room but there is still enough space even for an adult.

Depending on the number of batteries chosen to increase the range of this version, devised with solely plug-in electric traction, the passenger room could drop to three or two seats if necessary, with a large luggage compartment.

A glance at the interiors
The first aspect that strikes you, even before you discover the car interiors, is the door handle: an ergonomic design that incorporates a set of secondary controls that vary from place to place.

The driver can use the handle grip to control all four power windows, door locking and unlocking, the courtesy lights, side mirror adjustment and electrical lowering of the rear head restraint to improve visibility while reversing.

The front passenger can also adjust the hi-fi system as well as his or her own window. The rear passengers can also adjust their seats from the handle grip.
Two TFT panels dominate the dashboard. They are housed side by side in the centre of the dashboard, at a concave angle.
The right-hand monitor shows the speedometer and the main car operating indicators in addition to hybrid system energy flows.

The left-hand monitor shows secondary information such as screens for the hi-fi system, telephone and internet access browser plus personalised car set-up parameters.
A third display, located beneath the central console, is a touch screen that controls all the car's main and secondary functions. The right part of this TFT screen permanently displays the climate system temperature and air flows.

The lower part of the central console, housing the ignition button and gear selector, extends towards the tunnel and can be folded down. When parking in a tight spot, forcing the driver or front passenger to leave the car from the opposite side, this central element can be lowered and the seat moved back so that they can get out on the other side without hindrance.

The central console also houses two USB ports to connect digital music players and mobile phones, plus an SD card slot for satellite navigation maps.
The central part houses a dock specially designed for the Apple iPhone. This dock is interchangeable and can house other phone and smartphone models. It can recharge the phones and connect them automatically to the car without the need to use other coupling systems.

Powered by Lotus Engineering
The drive system is a series hybrid plug-in developed by Lotus Engineering, a Proton Group company. It includes a 3 cylinder 1.2 litre internal combustion engine developing 51 horsepower (38 kW) at 3500 rpm that can run on petrol, ethanol, or methanol.

The front transverse internal combustion engine is coupled to a generator and serves exclusively to recharge the 11.5 kWh capacity lithium ion batteries.
Drive is assured by an electric motor with continuous power of 45 kW and 75 kW peak power.
The high maximum torque, 240 Nm, does not require the use of a gearbox.
Acceleration 0-100 km/h takes place in 14 seconds, top speed is 170 km/h and battery range in the hybrid configuration is 50 km. Full recharging of the battery pack takes three hours using a traditional 240-volt outlet.

The performance and range of the City three door electric plug-in version are currently being assessed.

Isuzu Ascender, 2007

 

 

Isuzu Ascender, 2007

Intelli Choice named the 2006 Ascender 5-Passenger a "Top Winner" in its class for both lowest fuel cost and lowest operating cost, and a "Smart Choice" in eight other categories. Isuzu's flagship SUV returns for 2007, sized "just right" to offer plenty of room for five passengers, and with the multiple award-winning 4.2-liter inline six- cylinder engine under its hood. Changes:

• Tire Pressure Monitoring System added as standard equipment on all models
• Bering Blue Metallic replaces Adriatic Blue Metallic
• Storm Gray Metallic replaces Graphite Gray Metallic
• Six-spoke machined-finish alloy wheels replace painted wheels as standard equipment
• OnStar communication system discontinued as an available option
• 7-Passenger model discontinued
• Trim levels are unchanged. Both 2WD and 4WD models are available in base S trim and offer optional Preferred Equipment, LS, Leather and Luxury packages.

Prices are unchanged as well. The Ascender 2WD begins at a manufacturer's suggested retail price of $25,959, and the Ascender 4WD has a base M.S.R.P. of $27,959.

Hyundai Genesis Coupe Concept, 2007

 

Hyundai Genesis Coupe Concept, 2007

The concept car heralds the introduction of an all-new, rear-wheel drive 2+2 sports coupe. Following the introduction earlier this year of the Concept Genesis sedan, Concept Genesis Coupe signals Hyundai's second step in broadening its appeal to driving enthusiasts.

The Sonic Orange concept is complemented by a Ballistic Black carbon fiber hood, roof and ground effects for reduced weight. Strong hints of the production version are highlighted in its "Z" bodylines and powerful curves. When the production sports coupe arrives, it likely will be the most affordable 300+ horsepower car on the market, and the most dynamic performance car yet from Hyundai.

The powerful curves, surface detail and "Z" bodyside lines come straight from the same underlying inspiration that guided two earlier, well-received concepts: the HCD9 Talus and the HCD8 sports tourer. The undulating beltline borrowed from the Talus adds intrigue while enhancing outward visibility for both the driver and rear passengers. The HCD8 sports tourer's sensual body forms influenced the overall design theme while also providing direction for the concept's assertive headlight and taillight designs.

When viewed from a distance, the car is beautiful to look at. To complete the aggressive sports car look, the depth between the fenders and the greenhouse has been maximized.
Three large heat extractors sculpted into the hood are designed to cool just about any powerful engine. When the concept becomes reality, three large openings in the front fascia will allow for better engine breathing. The dual exhaust tips integrated into the rear fascia repeat the design theme of the front cooling ducts and are surrounded by a large carbon fiber air diffuser.

An arching roofline and tapering greenhouse highlight the exterior profile and emphasize the car's broad shoulders and wide stance. Concept Genesis Coupe rides on 20-inch polished aluminum deep-dish wheels with Hankook 255/35 ZR front tires and 275/35 ZR rear tires.

Hamann Imperator, 2009

 

 

Hamann Imperator, 2009

The Optimised aerodynamics in perfect quality
The Sportive elegance is the hallmark of the Hamann Imperator design: In order to meet the high expectations in its appearance and aerodynamics, the Hamann -designers completely reconstructed the front of the four-seater. Larger air inlets in connection with perfectly integrated daytime running lights give the Bentley an even more dynamic face.

The newly designed front optimises the air flow and therefore reduces the lifting forces at the front axle. Impressive extensions at the front and rear wings broaden the Hamann Imperator by 70 millimetres and are contribute significantly to the powerful overall impression of the Hamann modification. The Hamann side skirts were modelled in such a way that they calm the air flow at the sides and make the noble sports car look even lower and more elongated. In order to reduce the lifting forces at the rear axle, the Hamann technicians fitted an elegant spoiler on the original boot lid of the Bentley and combined it with a diffuser rear skirt for additional downthrust.

Impressive in terms of dimension and design - the new light alloy wheel ANNIVERSARY RACE "ANODIZED"
Matching the striking appearance of the Imperator, Hamann uses new rims of the type ANNIVERSARY RACE "ANODIZED" in the dimension 22 inches. The exceptionally light, multi-part forged wheel has a high-gloss polished rim flange and a black anodized rim star. The recommended wheel/tyre combination for the front is 10.5Jx22 inches with tyres measuring 265/35 R 22. At the rear, 11.0Jx22 inch rims are used with tyres measuring 305/30 R 22.

Perfected technology for superior performance enhancement With a powerful performance enhancement.

Noble or sportive
An interior highlight is the ergonomically newly designed 3-spoke sport steering wheel. Due to its new shape it lies much better in the hand and still offers all functions of the serial steering wheel. In the Hamann upholstery, the wheel is covered with most precious leather and enhanced with applications made of carbon fibre - this perfectly goes with the multi-part interior set made of same material. No matter if you are looking for black piano finish, leather or ultra-suede - we have everything that makes your heart beat faster. From the personalised floor mat set to a complete leather trim, everything is produced with artisan precision. Individually designed and fitted in the car by expert hand.

GMC Yukon Hybrid, 2008

 

GMC Yukon Hybrid, 2008

The 2008 GMC Yukon Hybrid, featuring the world's first two-mode hybrid propulsion system in an SUV, will offer consumers a 25-percent improvement in overall fuel economy when it arrives at dealerships toward the end of next year.

By utilizing innovative hybrid technology and Active Fuel Management cylinder deactivation technology, the Yukon Hybrid will deliver a spectacular combination of fuel efficiency and power, while maintaining the capabilities of a full-size SUV.

The GMC Yukon Hybrid is powered by an aluminum small-block Vortec V-8 engine that maintains important performance attributes of full-size trucks, such as towing at 6,000 pounds. To offset the added weight from the hybrid propulsion system, GM redesigned certain vehicle components to optimize aerodynamics. These design changes include a new hood, front and rear fascias and a sleek GMC grille.

While traditional full hybrid systems offer only one electric mode that is utilized during low-speed driving, GM is teaming up with Daimler Chrysler and BMW Group to co-develop the two-mode hybrid system, which is a patented fuel-saving technology with one mode for city driving and one mode for highway driving.

The first mode of the system is for low speed and light loads. In this mode, the hybrid system can operate with electric power only, engine power only and any combination of engine and electric power. When the first mode operates as electric only, fuel consumption is reduced in heavy stop-and-go traffic by shutting off the engine for extended periods of time and moving exclusively under electric power at low speeds.

The second mode is primarily used at highway speeds. In addition to electric assist, the second mode integrates sophisticated electronic controls, such as Active Fuel Management, cam phasing and late-intake valve closure, to allow even more efficient engine operation with electric motors less than half the size of a traditional "one-mode" hybrid system. Full eight-cylinder engine power is provided when conditions demand it, such as passing, towing or climbing a steep grade.

The two-mode system also leverages a four-speed automatic transmission and electronic controls in an integrated, powerful and compact system that can be used with gas and diesel engines, front- and rear-wheel-drive configurations and cars, trucks and SUVs.

Dacia Duster Concept, 2009

 

 

 

 

 

Dacia Duster Concept, 2009

The Dacia Duster Concept - Dacia's first concept crossover - is proud to be different. Seen from the driver's side, it is visibly a sporting coupé, yet passengers entering from the other side will see it as an MPV (Multi Purpose Vehicle) with a traditionally opening front door and rear-hinged rear door which suggest plush travelling refinement.
The Dacia Duster Concept's height of 1.49 metres, short front and rear overhangs (65cm and 80cm respectively), generous wheelbase (2.80m) and compact volumes (4.25m long, 1.64m wide) exude an overriding sense of robustness and sports appeal.

The front end features a broad bumper with two horizontal air-intake slits that suggest power. The grille features evident Dacia styling cues and is flanked by headlamps which wrap over the front wings to form a tapering line of light that stretches rearward towards the doors.
Viewed from the side, the clear-cut lines of the wheel arches and tall doors reinforce the impression that Dacia Duster Concept sits squarely on the road. The Anthracite Grey bodywork and extensive one-piece glazed sweep - made possible by the absence of a central pillar - highlights the styling of the sides which are unmistakably reminiscent of Dacia Duster Concept's graphic identity.

At the rear, the engraved Dacia logo further emphasizes the concept car's robust, dependable credentials.
Like Logan, Dacia Duster Concept is just 4.25 metres long, and its inherent agility ensures that it is perfectly at home in the urban jungle. Meanwhile, its 21-inch, five-spoke aluminium alloy wheels, exterior mirrors positioned on the window surround and trapezoidal aluminium exhaust tailpipes are telltale signs of its sporting pedigree.

Special care has gone into Dacia Duster Concept's aerodynamic efficiency (Cd: 0.30) and the fluid lines of the body sides enable air to flow freely along the vehicle's flanks before being jettisoned through the rear lights. The aerodynamic, wing-like forms of the roof-mounted direction indicators also channel airflow towards the rear. The sum of all this work has naturally been beneficial to fuel consumption, and Dacia Duster Concept stands out as a particularly environmentally-respectful crossover. Despite its performance potential, the particulate filterequipped 1.5 dCi 105hp engine (77kW) emits just 139g of CO2/km, equivalent to fuel consumption of 5.3 litres/100km.

A CROSSOVER WITH DACIA HALLMARKS
This futuristic crossover showcases the brand's core values - namely simplicity, robustness and authenticity - in a surprising form, yet Dacia's hallmark ingenuity and generosity are immediately apparent in the way designers have approached Dacia Duster Concept's cabin.
The concept car's two-tone chocolate and blue interior exudes a sense of well-being and conviviality. The fully glazed roof floods the cabin with light, while the enveloping forms of the staggered slim-line front seats provide first class comfort and support. The driver's seat is incorporated in a structure which extends all the way from the sill to the centre console, forming a sculptural, one-piece ensemble that echoes the exterior's sporty appeal.

The user-friendly dashboard features fluid, expressive lines while employing simple materials. The driver's side front airbag is housed in the lower part of the steeringwheel which has made it possible to position the screen centrally and free up appreciable stowage space on the dashboard. The latter's receding lines also provide record kneeroom of 280mm for the front passenger who benefits from an exceptionally comfortable seating position. 

The bellows-like form of the original two-tone dashboard incorporates a 20-litre glovebox, while the door inserts each include eight-litre stowage bins. Another bin has been cleverly concealed in the back of the rear right-hand seat. A simple push causes a box to slide forward from the boot which itself is in total keeping with the Dacia spirit, with the upright tailgate providing a carrying capacity of 470dm3 (VDA), a remarkable achievement for a vehicle of Dacia Duster Concept's compact overall dimensions.

The Dacia Duster Concept is an adaptable, modular concept car. The four-seat 'daily driver' layout can be swiftly converted into a leisure configuration in a matter of seconds. The passenger seat slides underneath the driver's seat on rails concealed in the floor to leave just one front seat and consequently free up a total carrying volume of two cubic metres. Thanks to a recess in the floor and a strap located under the dashboard, this space can be used to carry a trials mountain bike.

Dimensions

•     * Length: 4,250 mm
•     * Width: 1,640 mm
•     * Height: 1,495 mm
•     * Overall width, doors open: 4,285 mm
•     * Wheelbase: 2,804 mm
•     * Front track: 1,637 mm
•     * Rear track: 1,640 mm
•     * Unladen weight: 1,300 kg
•     * Boot volume: 470 dm3 (VDA)

Technical data

•     * Engine type: dCi 105
•     * Maximum power: 105 hp (77 kW)
•     * Maximum torque: 240 Nm at 2,000rpm
•     * 0-100 km/h: 9.6 s
•     * CO2 emissions: 139g/km
•     * Combined cycle fuel consumption: equivalent to 5.3 litres/100km
•     * Transmission: Manual six-speed gearbox
•     * Tyres: 245/35 ZR21
•     * Wheels: 21-inch diameter wheels

Caterham R500, 2009

 

 

 

Caterham R500, 2009

For those really serious about their driving, the famous supercar-slaying R500 moniker is back with the arrival of the all-new Caterham Seven Superlight R500.

The latest model from the British sportscar manufacturer takes the minimalist, lightweight Seven philosophy to a new level with more power, sharper handling and for those venturing on track the option of launch control and the Caterham Motorsport engineered sequential gearbox.

Weighing just 506kg and producing 263bhp, Caterham R500 is the most potent race-tuned production Seven yet.
The Series 3 chassis flagship model blasts out 520bhp-per-tonne and is capable of propelling itself from 0-60mph in 2.88 seconds, delivering a pure adrenalin fix for those committed enough to strap themselves into the Kevlar race seats.

The original Caterham R500 was legendary, with the old Rover K-series powered machine rewriting performance records for 0-60mph and 0-100-0mph times. This new variant has been equipped to supersede its predecessor by embracing the very latest in lightweight engineering techniques and technology.

Lurking under the lightened bonnet is the all-alloy 2.0 litre Ford Duratec engine. Fed by its roller barrel throttle bodies, the normally aspirated, four-cylinder mill is tuned by Caterham Powertrain (CPT) to unleash a monster; 263bhp with a heaving 177 lb-ft of torque transmitted to the rear wheels. The relentless acceleration is transmitted through each ratio by either the standard 6-speed gearbox or the optional Caterham Motorsport engineered sequential transmission.

To help reign in such extreme performance are race-developed Avon CR500 tyres and a suspension set-up that includes weight saving aero wishbones and fully adjustable dampers. Bringing things ferociously to a halt are four-piston calipers clamping on vented discs at the front and lightweight twin piston rear calipers.

Performance upgrades for the Caterham R500 aimed squarely at the track day market include a sequential transmission, launch control, a gulping Carbon Induction Airbox and Eibach Springs and dampers derived from the Caterham C400 race series.

The Caterham R500 isn't just about big performance statistics though; refinements and Seven firsts feature throughout and help distinguish it from its stablemates.
In true Colin Chapman spirit, engineers sought to add lightness to the chassis in order to improve the overall performance.

To shed a massive 9kg from the already featherlight chassis utilised by the R400, Caterham left no bolt unscrewed - more carbon and Kevlar feature than previously, thinner body panels have been utilised right through to aluminium rear light housings.

Discreet exterior styling tweaks carried over from the flagship CSR models offer both form and function - the carbon winglets increasing downforce and the cat's tongue grill aiding cooling and aerodynamics. A carbon leather boot cover and clear rear lights are also new.

Housed within the revised chassis is keyless ignition, a quick-release Momo steering wheel with integrated indicator switches and an innovative dashboard featuring flush fitted switchgear, ACES sequential gear change lights and a new Stack display with scrolling text. The carbon dash is also finished with a detailed engraved plaque to show each car's number.

On sale immediately, the factory built Superlight R500 starts at £36,995.