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Chevy Camaro Convertible pace car
Chevrolet has revealed a new Camaro Convertible Pace Car for the 2011 Indianapolis 500 race.
It features a similar paint scheme to that of the 1969 Camaro Indianapolis 500 Pace car convertible. The exterior is Summit White with orange stripes and door graphics. The interior has orange leather and Indy 500 logo embossed headrests.
A total of fifty cars will be built and they are all 2SS models with a 400 hp (298 kW / 406 PS) 6.2-liter V8 engine and a six-speed automatic transmission. They come nicely equipped with Brembo brakes, HID headlights, and 20-inch polished aluminum wheels with high performance tires.
Press Release
Chevrolet Camaro SS Convertible to Pace Indianapolis 500
- New Camaro SS convertible in white with orange stripes and orange leather-trimmed interior evokes classic 1969 Camaro pace car model
- One of the 50 Festival Committee cars will be auctioned for charity at Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale auction on Jan. 22
- 2011 is the 100th anniversary of Chevrolet and the Indianapolis 500
The 2011 Camaro Convertible is the 22nd Chevrolet chosen to pace "The Greatest Spectacle In Racing®" and the seventh Camaro. Adding to the rich heritage is the fact that 2011 will mark the 100th anniversary of the first Indianapolis 500, as well as the centennial year of Chevrolet.
Chevrolet will donate full proceeds of the auction to the David Foster Foundation, a charity devoted to supporting families with children in need of life-saving organ transplants. David Foster, the 15-time Grammy-winning music producer and songwriter, founded the organization in his native Canada.
The pace car, along with the matching festival cars, features a Summit White exterior accented with orange stripes and door graphics. The interior is trimmed in orange leather, including front seat headrests embossed with the Indy 500 logo, along with white door panels and instrument panel trim. The instrument panel trim features extensions of the orange exterior stripes.
The color combination is similar to the design used on the 1969 Camaro Indy pace car - replicas of which have become among the most popular Camaros in the collector world.
"It's an honor for Chevrolet to pace the 100th anniversary of the Indianapolis 500, especially during this landmark year," said Chris Perry, vice president of Chevrolet marketing. "This is also a great opportunity for us to build on Camaro's strong momentum, while supporting an important charity."
The auction for the commemorative edition pace car takes place Saturday evening, Jan. 22, during SPEED's live coverage of the Barrett-Jackson event. The vehicle carries lot number 1284 and bids can be submitted at the auction in person or online by clicking this link for a 2011 absentee bidder registration packet:
"The Indianapolis Motor Speedway and the Chevrolet name have long been associated with one another beginning with Arthur, Louis and Gaston Chevrolet's participation as competitors in the Indianapolis 500," said Indianapolis Motor Speedway President and CEO Jeff Belskus. "It is fitting in this 100th year for both brands that we reinforce that relationship through this year's Camaro pace car, which resembles what many argue is the most famous pace car in IMS history, the 1969 Camaro. We are looking forward to seeing this car on track, pacing the greatest 33 drivers in the world on May 29."
Pace car details
Equipped with a 400-horsepower (298 kW) V-8 engine and six-speed automatic transmission, the actual pace car for the race requires no performance modifications to perform its duty in front of the racing field.
All 50 of the Festival Committees cars will be SS convertible models fitted with the 2SS equipment package, offering the following standard features:
- Four-wheel disc brakes with Brembo four-piston calipers and hydraulic assist
- StabiliTrak electronic stability control
- Competitive/sport mode that enhances on-track performance
- Performance Launch Control (with the manual transmission) that optimizes hard-acceleration launches for quicker, more consistent performance
- Twenty-inch polished aluminum wheels and performance tires
- Head-up instrument display
- Center console with auxiliary gauge package.
- Along with the 2SS equipment, the cars feature the RS package, which includes HID headlamps and unique tail lamps.
Convertible refinement
The Camaro Convertible delivers coupe-like driving dynamics, with the unmatched fun of open air driving. The Convertible model contains an enhanced structure designed to eliminate the traditional compromises of open cars, such as cowl or steering wheel shake. The goal is a convertible that drives like the coupe. All the powertrain and suspension elements of the existing Camaro Coupe carry over unchanged in the convertible. The top has a smooth, tailored fit, with acoustical foam in the headliner that helps deliver a quiet ride with the top up.
Four strategic reinforcements enhance the already-stiff body structure to eliminate common convertible maladies of cowl and steering wheel shake. They include:
- A tower-to-tower brace under the hood
- A transmission support reinforcement brace
- Underbody tunnel brace
- Front and rear underbody "V" braces.
The regular-production versions of the 2011 Camaro Convertible will begin arriving in Chevrolet dealerships in February, opening a new chapter in the Camaro's ongoing 21st century rebirth. Even before the introduction of a convertible model, Camaro ended 2010 as the sales leader in its class in the United States for the first time since 1985.
Chevrolet's pace car heritage
Louis Chevrolet, who founded the brand with William "Billy" Durant in 1911, was a racer, mechanic and pioneering engineer. He raced in the early years of the Indianapolis 500, which also started in 1911, and served a luminary of the event in the years after he retired his racing helmet. That included driving the official Indianapolis pace car, which was developed by Indy 500 founder Carl Fisher, who believed a rolling start was safer than a standing start. The first Indianapolis 500 featured a pace car driven by Fisher.
The first Chevrolet selected as the Indianapolis 500 pace car was the 1948 Fleetmaster Six. The brand would go on to lead the racing pack more than any other manufacturer. The list of Chevy pace cars includes:
1948 Fleetmaster Six
1955 Bel Air
1967 Camaro
1969 Camaro
1978 Corvette
1982 Camaro
1986 Corvette
1990 Beretta
1993 Camaro
1995 Corvette
1998 Corvette
1999 Monte Carlo
2002 Corvette
2003 SSR
2004 Corvette
2005 Corvette
2006 Corvette
2007 Corvette
2008 Corvette
2009 Camaro
2010 Camaro
2011 Camaro
2011 Aston Martin launches Cygnet special editions
Aston Martin has confirmed the full spec of its Cygnet and announced a pair of launch edition models to commemorate the start of production of the Toyota iQ-based city car at its Gaydon HQ.
Cygnet Launch Edition White, to give its full name is finished in ‘Snow White’ paint with a mix of silver mesh, chrome trim and alloy wheels. The cabin features satin chrome and Pearl white leather seats with alcantara inserts.
The Black model has ‘Magic Black’ metallic paint with a deep sea green effect, matt black bonnet vents and chrome trim. The seats are trimmed in black leather with a diamond pattern and other trim pieces are in dark chrome.
The exterior is reworked, with a distinctive Aston-style grille and lights; along with redesigned body panels - there's certainly no mistaking this car for a Toyota.
Inside, both the cars are equipped with Garmin Nuvi satnav systems; integrated stereo with 3.5mm jack input and steering-wheel mounted stereo controls. The Cygnet's not for everyone, but it's certainly the most luxurious compact car we've ever seen.
The two editions will be offered with either standard manual or optional CVT automated transmission and each will be produced for a strictly limited time. For the interior they will get a choice of unique materials and colors. Also both of them will be offered with a bespoke Bill Amberg five-piece luggage set that includes glove box bag, removable door pocket bag, holdall, garment bag and a collapsible tote bag.
Press Release
Aston Martin Cygnet Launch Editions; White and Black
• Aston Martin confirms launch details for new Cygnet city car
• Two special launch editions to commence production of city car at company's Gaydon headquarters in the UK
• An Aston Martin Tailor-Fit solution for the city offering luxury and individuality
Gaydon, 20 January 2011: Aston Martin announces the arrival of the ultimate city car, a Tailor-Fit solution for urban driving in the contemporary metropolis, with two strictly limited Cygnet launch editions.
To celebrate the commencement of production, the new Aston Martin Cygnet will be available in two special launch edition models, each exemplifying the highly bespoke nature of this unique car. The two Cygnet Launch Edition models; White and Black, are available with either standard manual or optional CVT automated transmission and each will be produced for a strictly limited time.
Cygnet is a bespoke luxury commuter car, designed to take you into the heart of the city, with ultra-compact packaging and low-emission engine technology. These efficiencies are paired with the manufacturing and craft skill that is closely associated with Aston Martin.
Craftsmanship and meticulous attention to detail characterise each Cygnet, and the extremely high levels of interior finish are exemplified by the choice of materials and colours on these two unique models.
Cygnet Launch Edition White brings together a serene exterior; finished in Snow White paint with a mix of silver mesh, chrome brightwork and White Diamond turned alloy wheels. The interior of the White edition features seats hand trimmed in Pearl white leather with perforated Alcantara inserts, complemented by satin chrome. On the exterior, Aston Martin's attention to detail is exemplified with the iconic wings badge appearing in matching white.
In contrast, Cygnet Launch Edition Black features Magic Black metallic paint with a specially developed deep sea green effect, offset by matt black louvers and chrome brightwork. Inside, the seats and dash are finished in pure black full grain leather, perforated in a specially-developed diamond pattern. Dark chrome accents adorn the cabin, while the wings badges are rendered in black throughout.
Both Cygnet Launch Editions also come with a bespoke Bill Amberg five-piece luggage set, especially designed for and tailored to Cygnet. Available in a contemporary combination of black leather with technical fabric, the set comprises glove box bag, removable door pocket bag, holdall, garment bag and a collapsible tote bag.
Cygnet Background
Cygnet has generated a huge level of interest amongst both existing Aston Martin owners and customers new to the brand. High tech, compact and built to the same exacting standards and levels as Aston Martin's acclaimed range of sports cars, Cygnet has already become the perfect addition to a V8 Vantage, DB9, Rapide, DBS or the forthcoming One-77 as the ultimate means of metropolitan transport.
Cygnet benefits from highly sophisticated active and passive safety technology to protect driver, passengers and pedestrians, with a range of breakthrough features rarely seen in small cars. Cygnet delivers everything the city driver needs, from essential equipment like ABS, nine airbags, stability control, electronic brake assist and retractable door mirrors to a luxurious interior specification, including keyless entry and start, heated seats, and satellite navigation, all packed into a car that is just three metres long.
Despite its compact but neatly-proportioned form, Cygnet is clearly recognisable as an
Aston Martin. The marque's characteristic design language, including signature details such as the metal grille, elongated side strake and inverted rear lights, establish a distinguished, solid form with strong road presence.
Cygnet is the eighth major production car Aston Martin has introduced at its state-of-the art Gaydon facility since 2004, and is assembled in a new dedicated facility by the same skilled local workforce of technicians and craftspeople that create Aston Martin's award-winning range of sports cars. Cygnet demonstrates Aston Martin's ongoing commitment to British manufacturing, supported by a strong local supplier network providing the finest materials and components. As a result, Cygnet's build quality matches its discrete styling, the richly detailed interior and exterior forming a visual and tactile delight.
The Aston Martin Cygnet is a car without compromise, as dedicated to urban functionalism as its sporting siblings are to driver involvement, dynamics and long-distance comfort. With space for up to four adults, Cygnet is light, compact, safe, efficient and highly manoeuvrable.
Launch Edition White and Launch Edition Black epitomise Cygnet's qualities; craft and skill in a luxurious but compact package, with heart, soul and personality Tailor-Fit for the modern city.
Cygnet production commences in April 2011 and is initially on sale now through
Aston Martin's European dealership network, with the company actively working on expanding market availability by 2012. Prices start from £30,995
Mazda Minagi Concept
Mazda is primed and ready to go to the Geneva Motor Show with their latest concept, called Minagi.
The new model will be one of the first Mazdas to use the brand’s newest design language, Kodo, which was previewed on the Shinari concept. This new language means “soul of motion,” and should not be confused with the alien from The Simpsons, Kodos. (For starters, Kodo is Japanese, while Kodos is from Rigel VII.) The sketches show a nice evolution of Mazda’s basic crossover silhouette, as well as the disappearance of the controversial smiley-face grille.
The Minagi is a showcase of Mazda’s Skyactiv technologies, the brand’s designation for its new engine, transmission and safety packages. Mazda will show some Skyactiv hardware in Geneva, including a direct-injection gasoline engine, a clean turbocharged diesel and two transmissions.
Despite being labeled as a concept, the company hinted the Minagi "is the forerunner to the launch of Mazda's upcoming next-generation products." This seems to imply we could be looking at Mazda's version of the Ford Vertrek concept, which will go into production, possibly as the CX-5, to the replace the current Escape and Kuga.
Press Release
Mazda MINAGI Concept to Showcase Mazda's All-new SKYACTIV Technologies and KODO Design at the Geneva Motor Show
HIROSHIMA, Japan-Mazda Motor Corporation will showcase the world premiere of its new MINAGI compact crossover SUV concept car during the press days of the 2011 Geneva motor show, which is being held from March 1-13, 2011. The Mazda MINAGI concept fully embraces Mazda's new SKYACTIV technologies and its new design theme, KODO - Soul of Motion. The exciting MINAGI concept is the forerunner to the launch of Mazda's upcoming next-generation products and symbolizes the evolution of the Mazda brand as it begins a new era.
The Mazda MINAGI is a compact crossover SUV concept that combines Mazda's SKYACTIV technologies - which represent the harmony between driving pleasure and outstanding environmental and safety performance - with emotional KODO design that communicates pent-up energy bursting with vitality as the vehicle nimbly navigates a sprawling urban cityscape. Fully introducing SKYACTIV technologies throughout, MINAGI is equipped with a SKYACTIV engine and SKYACTIV transmission fitted to a SKYACTIV-Body and chassis that merge comprehensive weight reduction with the assurance of ample safety features.
Mazda's stand at the Geneva show will also feature new SKYACTIV technology exhibits and the Mazda SHINARI design concept car, among a wide range of products.
Officially titled the 81e Salon International de l'Auto de Genève, the show's press days are March 1 and 2, and the public days are March 3-13, 2011. Mazda will hold a press conference on Tuesday, March 1.
2012 Tesla Model S 【Video】
Tesla has released a new video that shows the Model S in action.
The North American company has divided its vehicle testing stage into two phases, Alpha and Beta, and this next video shows the Tesla Model S, which as you can notice, features a slightly modified front fascia, during the Alpha phase which began in 2010.
The 2012 Model S is rear drive. The compact electric motor and transmission assembly — much smaller than a conventional internal combustion engine and gearbox — is mounted behind the rear axle line and under the trunk floor. More than 7,000 lithium ion battery cells are packaged in a reinforced structure that helps comprise the vehicle's floorpan. Cargo volume exceeds 30 cubic feet thanks to functional front and rear luggage areas.
As we have previously reported, the Model S is motivated by an electric motor that is powered by a 42 kWh lithium-ion battery. It enables the car to accelerate from 0-60 mph in 5.6 seconds, hit a top speed of 120 mph (193 km/h), and travel up to 300 miles (483 km) on a single charge.
Mitsubishi teases Concept Global Small ahead of Geneva debut
It all started with a teaser sketch in early December '10, but today, Mitsubishi released the first real life photo of its Concept Global Small vehicle. The design study previews an upcoming subcompact model that is planned for production in March of 2012 at the Japanese firm's new third factory in Thailand, which will have an initial capacity for around 150,000 units per year.
Read More
Press Release
Mitsubishi Motors Lineup at the 2011 Geneva International Motor Show
Tokyo, January 18, 2011 - Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) will give the global premiere of the MITSUBISHI Concept Global Small (show model), a concept car based on the features of "compact", "affordability", and "high fuel efficiency" at the 81st Geneva International Motor Show which runs from March 1 through March 13 at the Geneva Palexpo exhibition and conference complex (opening to the general public on March 3). MMC will display a total of 12 vehicles (6 during public days), including vehicles already on sale in Europe, in addition to the 100% electric i-MiEV, of which about 2,500 units have already been shipped to Europe within three months since its start of production and shipment in October 2010.
The MITSUBISHI Concept Global Small is the concept model of the compact passenger vehicle that is planned for production in March of 2012 at the MMC's new third factory in Thailand.
The features of the MITSUBISHI Concept Global Small include good maneuverability and easy operation, an inherent of a compact car, accomplished in to a highly efficient package that can comfortably seat five adults. In addition, the MITSUBISHI Concept Global Small achieves top-of-class fuel efficiency, with CO2 emissions in the mid-90g/km range due to:
- Usage of an idling stop mechanism
- A 1.0 - 1.2L class compact engine equipped with a regenerative braking system
- Weight trimming to the most complex parts
- Reduced running resistance in the engine, new-generation CVT, brakes, and tires
- A body shape that greatly reduces aerodynamic resistance.
Lexus at the 2011 Tokyo Auto Salon
Lexus hasn’t been spared from the tuning scene with some uniquely tuned cars on display at the 2011 Tokyo Auto Salon.
Even though its public launch is still a few months away, the new 2011 Lexus CT 200h was revealed in special F-Sport guise, with an array of sporting accessories including alloy wheels, a body kit by Modellista and Recaro sports seats.
The IS F CCS-R is a true racer and comes with carbon fiber body panels which include the bonnet, boot lid and front and rear spoilers. It is fitted with a new frameless constructed roll cage and polycarbonate windows. Carbon fiber is also used for the dash center console and door trims. The CCS-R has a 6-point safety harness and short-diameter steering wheel.
Press Release
TOYOTA STARS AT TOKYO AUTO SALON
The world's largest custom car show celebrated the sporting side of Lexus at the weekend with five tuned and modified cars on display at the Tokyo Auto Salon.
Even though its public launch is still a few months away, the new CT 200h was revealed in special F-Sport guise, with an array of sporting accessories including alloy wheels, a body kit by Modellista and Recaro sports seats.
It was joined by two new versions of the ultra-high performance IS F: the CCS-R (Circuit Club Sport Racer) and Club Performance Accessory.
The CCS-R is true to the tradition of lightweight track saloons, featuring carbon fibre body panels, including front and rear spoilers, bonnet and boot lid, and a new frameless construction roll cage and polycarbonate windows. Inside there's further extensive use of carbon fibre for the dashboard, centre console and door trims, while the racing details extend to a six-point safety harness and short-diameter steering wheel with paddle shifts. The car is performance-engineered, too, with racing suspension, brakes, cooling and exhaust, plus a mechanical limited-slip differential and forged alloys shod with slick tyres.
TRD (Toyota Racing Department) has created the IS F Club Performance Accessory, giving the most powerful member of the IS family an even bolder appearance with spoilers fore and aft, a rear diffuser and a carbon fibre hood. Again, more carbon fibre material is used in the cabin, along with sports seats finished in bright orange. Sports suspension and brakes, a titanium exhaust, magnesium wheels and a mechanical LSD complete the package.
Gazoo Racing presented its racing version of the Lexus LFA supercar, which enjoyed success at last year's Nürburgring 24 Hours race, and TOM's offered a new interpretation of the LS 460 limousine.
Fenice Gold And Diamonds Fiat 500C【Video】
A Chinese businessman, who wants to remain anonymous, commissioned the Italian coach Fenice Milano a Fiat Abarth 500 C, with various elements in gold and diamonds, inspired by the prototype ‘La Dolce Vita’, presented last October.
The model was commissioned from Italian design house Fenice Milano which has labelled it "La Dolce Vita Gold and Diamonds 200hp". Even the outside of the car features 24K gold particles in the golden pearlescent white paint and there's a gold thread finish to the hood too. But that's just the beginning.
This Fenice Fiat 500C uses 24K gold on everything, from the instrument panel, to the dashboard and other trim parts.
The interior of the Fenice Fiat 500 Convertible Abarth has been decked out with teak inserts, special leather and diamonds. The console is embellished with a gold framed instrument panel and teak and 24K gold inserts dashboard, whose profiles are hand-shaped by Fenice Milano’s artisans.
Press Release
€ 500,000 for a gold and diamonds 500C commissioned to Fenice Milan and Stuart Hughes
After the great interest achieved from the presentation on the market in September 2010, Fenice Milano (www.fenicemilano.com) receives a commission from a wealthy Chinese businessman to build a special version of its "little one", which adds exclusivity and determination to the retro charm of the initial project. The new, unique model was named "La Dolce Vita Gold and Diamonds 200hp". A name that, by itself, sais it all and briefly describes the extraordinary budget that justifies a price of almost €500,000.
Further improved in performance thanks to the recently established partnership with the famous car technician Romeo Ferraris (www.romeoferraris.com) - specialized in car engine modifications and road racing since 1959 - and enriched by the installation of new electronic devices such as the prestigious "Supreme gold and diamonds Ipad" produced by the English Atelier of Stuart Hughes (www.stuarthughes.com).
The starting point for this event is the 500C Abarth, fully mechanically revised, to reach the extraordinary level of 200Hp, and whose precious finishes result in a real jewel of style and Made in Italy workmanship.
Thanks to its compact size (355cm long, 165cm wide and 149cm in height), this little jewel is ideal to comfortably move in the city, without sacrificing the luxury and exclusivity guaranteed by several inserts of precious materials, such as 24K gold and quality woods such as teak, entirely handmade by Fenice Milano's artisans. Pleasure and excitement in driving are guaranteed, due to an increase of 68hp from the original, permitted by the new ECU and exclusive use of an increased turbine entirely developed by Romeo Ferraris' Factory, combined with pipes and fittings made from scratch, as well as the complete exhaust system with 200-cells catalytic converter designed to improve engine performance. To add security, the brake system has also been completely revised, in order to balance the increased power obtained. The front axle has in fact been provided with an improved kit by Brembo equipped with adjustable dampers able to tame the exuberance of 'La Dolce Vita' and making it both safe and fun.
Inside, the redesigned steering wheel has the outer ring made of the teak and the interior one made in leather with controls in 24K gold, even the original carpet floor was replaced with teak. The console is embellished with a gold framed instrument panel and teak and 24K gold inserts dashboard, whose profiles are handshaped by Fenice Milano's artisans.
The last major innovation provided in "La Dolce Vita Gold and Diamonds 200hp" is in fact the placing in central position of an Ipad Supreme Edition made in 24k gold and diamonds by English designer Stuart Hughes, specialized in developing technological applications in precious materials. Especially designed for those who want to make the most of innovation and exclusivity in the onboard control instruments, the space for the Ipad provides a complete interaction of the device with the car, which is fitted with a GPS navigation system, a last generation hi-fi that can handle MP3 and all Ipod features and also an internet connection run by wi-fi and a appropriate sim card.
The golden pearlescent white painting includes 24K gold particles. The electric hood is provided in technical natural colored fabric with gold thread finished. The redesigned seats are also sewn with the precious material, the interior elements are full grain leather and natural-colored Alcantara with handmade on sight stitching.
Curiositiy:
The future owner wants the delivery of its new "little treat" to be made in absolute concealment, in a jewelry shop owned by a friend, as depicted in the animation video.
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