Acura RDX Prototype, 2006

 

•  Acura RDX Prototype, 2006

Combining sport utility with sports sedan handling and performance, RDX features an innovative 2.3-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine, Acura's exclusive Super Handling All-Wheel Drive(TM) (SH-AWD(TM)), and is designed to redefine the entry premium SUV segment. This near-production prototype provides an advance preview of the all-new RDX that will go on sale this summer.

The RDX features an all-new 2.3-liter i-VTEC(R) four-cylinder turbocharged engine that generates 240 horsepower and 260 lbs-ft of torque. This is the first application of forced induction technology in Acura history. The revolutionary i-VTEC Turbo technology uses a variable flow turbocharger, which is exclusive to the RDX, and provides dramatic performance benefits while maintaining excellent fuel efficiency. To complement the all-aluminum high-performance engine, the RDX utilizes Acura's steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters to manually operate the 5-speed sequential SportShift(TM) automatic transmission.

Acura's Super Handling-AWD system is tuned specifically for the new RDX platform. SH-AWD's sophisticated electronic controls automatically distribute torque fore and aft, as well as splitting the rear torque left to right. The result is dramatically enhanced handling, traction and stability during sporty driving as well as in inclement weather. A sophisticated chassis with fully independent front and rear suspension complement the SH-AWD. Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA(R)) combines with large disc brakes and ABS to enhance control.

The RDX is built on an all-new global light truck platform. Reflecting Acura's commitment to safety through innovation, the RDX is equipped with the Advanced Compatibility Engineering(TM) (ACE(TM)) body structure and additional state-of-the-art safety features. The ACE structure helps to disperse collision forces over a larger frontal area. The system also helps to provide enhanced protection for vehicle occupants while at the same time increasing compatibility with other vehicles in a frontal collision. Front, side and side curtain airbags, in addition to rollover sensors add an extra measure of safety.

The chiseled exterior styling combines with a generous greenhouse to provide excellent visibility for driving in city traffic or on twisty mountain roads. RDX employs a compact upper body with an aggressively raked belt line, sporty wheel flares and a substantial hood that flows down from the windshield to an aggressive Acura signature five-sided grill. Custom 19-inch alloy wheels give the RDX Prototype an aggressive stance. Dual exhaust tips, HID headlights, and a rear spoiler add to the sporty appearance of the vehicle.

The inside, the RDX combines richly appointed materials with a sporty, driver-oriented cockpit. The center console features an innovative storage system, which allows for hidden and lockable storage of a briefcase or laptop computer. The prototype's interior features an assortment of leading-edge technologies, such as the Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition(TM), AcuraLink(TM) satellite communication system with real time traffic and HandsFreeLink(TM) wireless telephone interface. A premium Acura/ELS(TM) DVD-Audio system is tuned to deliver rich surround sound to the cabin.

The RDX offers seating for five and a versatile rear cargo hatch allows for easy load-in and storage. The second row seats split and fold flat into the floor, providing ample cargo space for an active, on-the-go lifestyle.

Bentley GTZ Zagato Concept, 2008

 

 

 

 

 

•  Bentley GTZ Zagato Concept, 2008

The Zagato Atelier takes great pleasure in introducing the Bentley GTZ, the latest in a long line of collaborations with the very best British car manufacturers over the Milanese Atelier 's 89.

Following on from the recent presentations of the Ferrari 575GTZ in 2006 and the Maserati GS Zagato at the Villa D'Este in 2007, the Bentley GTZ is a neo-classic Zagato interpretation of the style of a British GT.

The project was conceived during a discussion between Dr. Ing. Franz Josef Paefgen, CEO of Bentley Motors Limited and Dr. Andrea Zagato, President of Zagato at the Pebble Beach Concours D'Elegance in 2006. At a 'Tribute to Zagato' presentation, Zagato showed a selection of 50' 60's models, near by the recent berlinettas presented during the last 3 years. Dr. Paefgen was struck by the beauty of those cars and reminded of the historical significance of the art of the Carrozzeria (coachbuilders) which was both being maintained and carried forward by Zagato.

Starting from the styling cues of the last neo classical coupes, which became milestones of Zagato design in the new millennium, the challenge was to apply the same design language to a completely different proportion of vehicle: the Bentley Continental GT Speed.

Even with many technical restrictions and carry-over parts in order to maintain the basic functions of this extremely sophisticated vehicle, the Zagato design team managed to give a distinctive and attractive character to the Zagato coupe.

Pronounced fender lines, double-bubble roof, round tail with all new rear combination lamp are harmoniously integrated in to an imposing body adding a more aggressive and sharp feeling without losing the absolute solidity which is part of the great charm of the original coupe. The same time the hand painted pin-stripe coordinated with the interior colour adds a refined and exclusive elegance to the extrovert body lines helps to make the look of this car appropriate to be special limited-production model born between two great automotive cultures: Bentley and Zagato.

Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Sang Bleu, 2009

 

•  Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Sang Bleu, 2009

Continuing its 100th anniversary celebrations Bugatti Automobiles S.A.S. has chosen the prestigious Pebble Beach weekend to present a further highlight to pay tribute to this legendary brand : The company proudly unveils the Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Sang Bleu - an exclusive, one-off Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport, honouring the marques precious heritage.

Innovation and Harmony
The Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Sang Bleu has ventured into new areas. Instead of applying two paint colours or paint and material to highlight the two tone design the Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Sang Bleu exclusively concentrates on materials - carbon fibre and aluminum - an innovative combination never realised before. This unique approach opens a new dimension of « Art - Forme - Technique », the company's core values.

The colour combination commissioned for the Pebble Beach car is blue carbon fibre with polished aluminum. The visual carbon fibre is tinted in royal blue to emphasize the refined volumes and surfaces of the Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport. The rear airscoops are tinted in the same nightblue - offering a dramatic view from above - and thus fluidly integrate into the overall design philosophy of this unique model.

The rims are inspired by the Grand Sport Roadster and are highlighted in a Midnight Blue and Diamond Cut two tone finish. The interior, specially and tastefully selcted for the Pebble Beach event, is trimmed in a newly developed Gaucho leather which blends with the intriguing and pure exterior materials creating an elegant and harmonious overall appearance.

Featured Marque
In the year of its 100th anniversary Bugatti has been selected to be one of the featured marques at the 2009 Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance. Ettore Bugatti started his business in the Alsacian town of Molsheim in 1909. The name of the company: „Ettore Bugatti Automobiles i. Els.". In 1956 the company ceased its activities. Exactly 50 years later, in March 2006, the first Bugatti Veyron built by Bugatti Automobiles S.A.S. was delivered - after the Volkswagen Group had aquired the rights of the Bugatti marque in 1998 and started the re-launch of this famous brand. To date over 250 of the planned Bugatti Veyrons are sold, 215 of them have been delivered to customers worldwide. In June 2009 Bugatti started production of the Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport, the open roadster. The sales results are encouraging over 20 Grand Sports have been sold, with first deliveries already started.

The Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Sang Bleu is the latest in a line of centenary Bugatti models which have won worldwide acclaim in 2009. This unique car stands - like the others - for the commitment of the Bugatti of today to carry the values and the philosophy of Ettore Bugatti, the founder of this unique marque, into a successful future.