Dodge Durango, 2011

 

 

 

 

 

 

 Dodge Durango, 2011

Buckle in and hold tight. Dodge is jumping back into the sport utility (SUV) segment with the 2011 Dodge Durango, a three-row vehicle spacious enough to carry the entire crew and performance-tuned to thrill anyone who truly loves to drive. Durango  lead the Dodge brand's new product onslaught for 2011.

From its sleek exterior design to its modern, spacious interior, and intelligent, fuel-efficient and powerful powertrain options, the 2011 Dodge Durango is all-new from the inside out. And the changes are more than skin deep. The Durango's unibody structure is more than 25 percent stiffer than its predecessor. The end result is a vehicle with crossover versatility, SUV capability and performance in a different league than its competitive class.

Dodge Durango customers live busy lives. They need a vehicle that is spacious and flexible enough to haul three rows of passengers and their gear, but powerful and agile enough to keep it fun. Durango customers are looking for the perfect balance of functional versatility and luxury at an outstanding value. Dodge Durango is the only vehicle in the segment that will meet their needs.

RE-ENGINEERED FROM THE ASPHALT UP
The all-new 2011 Dodge Durango delivers excitement and refinement with world-class suspension and performance. It's a driver's SUV that delivers impressive on-road performance and capability with the flexibility of a three-row SUV.

Benchmarked against premium performance SUV's in the market, Dodge Durango delivers modernized refinement with electronics, suspension and structural characteristics that are usually found at much higher price points.

The unibody structure is built with a selection of high-strength and ultra-high-strength steels that improve driving dynamics by integrating the suspension with the body — reducing flex when compared with the previous body-on-frame design. In fact, 52 percent of the Dodge Durango's structure is made from these advanced steels. More than 5,500 welds and more than 4,100 mm of arc welding contribute to torsional stiffness levels greater than the Mercedes-Benz GL.

The all-new short/long arm front suspension and isolated multi-link rear suspension features isolated front and rear cradles for improved on-road handling and comfort.

The all-new Dodge Durango delivers on the pavement with aggressive shock and spring rates and large sway bars to handle body roll in hard turning maneuvers. Available electro-hydraulic performance steering, along with standard electronic stability control also contribute to maintain tire grip and vehicle stability.

A robust structure, impressive braking and unexpected stability contribute to the Dodge Durango's best-in-class trailer tow capability. On models equipped with the Pentastar V-6 engine, the Dodge Durango can tow up to 6,200 pounds—more than the V-6 and small V-8 that were available in the previous Durango. When coupled with the 5.7-liter HEMI® V-8 engine, the all-new Dodge Durango offers trailer-tow capability of up to 7,400 pounds—more weight than a 24-foot boat and trailer.

A drag coefficient of approximately 0.35 enables an aerodynamic improvement of more than 14 percent compared with its predecessor, contributing to quiet interior and improved fuel efficiency.

The inside of new Dodge Durango boasts 28 different seating configurations, with as much as 85 cubic feet of cargo and storage areas, leaving plenty of legroom for passengers and gear. With second- and third-row seats folded flat, the Durango can fit a 6-foot couch with room for a coffee table, or for do-it-yourselfers, enough 10-foot 2x4s to build a tree house. Creating versatile and usable cargo space is important to the segment.

Visibility over the third row was critical. Engineering and design worked together to develop a simple solution. When the third row is empty, a single motion actuator can drop the headrests with the push of a button to increase visibility.

Every path that leads to the interior is sealed in one or more ways and joints are made as tight as possible by using sealer between panels, which expands during the paint process. Laminated glass comes standard in all models. Dodge Durango features a double wall separating the engine compartment and the vehicle cabin to limit the amount of under-hood engine noise to occupants.

TWO POWERTRAIN SYSTEMS COMPLEMENT THE DRIVING SPIRIT
The all-new Dodge Durango is available with two powertrains that provide rear-wheel-drive performance and fuel efficiency. Engines available in the all-new 2011 Dodge Durango include the flex-fuel 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 and 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 - both engines feature variable valve timing (VVT). When equipped with the Pentastar V-6, the Dodge Durango can drive more than 500 miles on a tank of gas.

3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine
The 3.6-liter V-6 engine is an all-new design, featuring double-overhead camshafts (DOHC) and a high-pressure die-cast aluminum cylinder block in a 60 degree configuration. Contributing to best-in-class V-6 towing for Dodge Durango, the engine delivers 290 horsepower (216 kW) at 6,400 rpm and 260 lb.-ft. (353 N•m) of torque at 4,800 rpm, providing customers with more than 14 percent improvement in fuel economy, a 38 percent increase in horsepower and 11 percent increase in torque over the engine it replaces. The EPA fuel economy miles per gallon (mpg) (City/Hwy) are 16/23 for rear-wheel-drive models, 16/22 for all-wheel-drive models.

5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine
The all-new 2011 Dodge Durango is also available with the legendary 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine with fuel-saver mode. The 5.7-liter delivers 360 horsepower (268 kW) and 390 lb.-ft. of torque (520 N•m) at 4,250 rpm and also features VVT. The available V-8 delivers performance, best-in-class 7,400 lbs. of towing capability and fuel efficiency. The EPA fuel economy mpg (City/Hwy) is 14/20 for rear-wheel-drive models and 13/20 for all-wheel-drive models.

The 2011 Dodge Durango features two automatic transmissions and two available full-time all-wheel-drive systems (V-6 and V-8 versions). The drivelines provide smooth operation of the vehicle over a variety of road conditions. Where competitors have switched to car-based platforms, the HEMI-powered, all-wheel-drive Dodge Durango features a low-range transfer case for light off-road recreation and to ease maneuvers while towing, such as pulling a boat out of the water from a high degree launch or backing up with a trailer attached.

A PLANTED PROFILE AND AN UNFORGETTABLE INTERIOR
The all-new Dodge Durango carries the muscular body and confident personality customers expect from Dodge and surprises with all the utility and convenience designed to fulfill the needs of a three-row family or the active individual with plenty of recreational equipment.
In line with Charger, the side profile of the Dodge Durango features a powerful shape, accented by muscular fender arches and curves that flow back in through the doors, resembling the iconic shape of a "coke-bottle." The greenhouse of the car blends seamlessly into the body, completing the "double-diamond" shape. A body-color rear spoiler significantly reduces drag and adds visual drama to the side profile.

The Dodge Durango's all-new interior is a surprise owners always deserved but never expected. Created by the same interior design studio that designed the much-lauded interior in the Ram trucks and the all-new Jeep Grand Cherokee, the Durango's upscale interior materials and thoughtful design will make owners and their crews want to jump in, hunker down and thoroughly enjoy even the longest drive. Everywhere they touch, from the steering wheel all the way back to the soft third row armrest, Dodge Durango passengers will feel materials that are refined. Not only is it a pleasure to behold, it is extremely functional and gives owners a first-class experience, regardless of the trim level. Durango's interior is also extremely comfortable for all three rows of passengers, and there's a surprising amount of interior flexibility.

The all-new instrument panel features a beautifully crafted monotone or two-tone appearance with a dark upper and lighter lower color and premium soft-touch materials for all price classes. Panel construction also features tighter gaps when compared to its predecessor and almost 50 percent fewer intersections of parts for higher fit and finish levels, giving customers "I can't believe this is mine" looks.

MORE THAN 45 SAFETY AND SECURITY FEATURES AVAILABLE
The all-new 2011 Dodge Durango offers consumers 45 safety and security features, including standard electronic stability control (ESC) that delivers three security features to improve overall vehicle stability both on- and off-road: electronic roll mitigation (ERM) reacts and applies brakes during extreme situations, while available Hill-start Assist (HSA) works with standard Trailer-sway Control (TSC) to enhance off-road and towing capabilities.

Other safety and security features available on the 2011 Dodge Durango include Blind-spot Monitoring (BSM) and Rear Cross Path (RCP) detection, which aid drivers when they're changing lanes or in parking lot situations. In addition, Dodge Durango features standard seat-mounted air bags in the front row. A side curtain air bag extends protection to all three rows. Dodge Durango also includes standard front-row active head restraints.

QUALITY IS TESTED WITH A NEW PROCESS
Chrysler Group engineers put the 2011 Dodge Durango to the test, actually thousands of tests, to ensure its performance and reliability for the long haul.

Beginning with the all-new models developed for the 2011 model year, Chrysler Group has significantly increased the number of reliability testing miles. Engineers tested the new Dodge Durango for the equivalent of 6 million miles during its reliability and durability evaluation in the company's scientific labs, at the proving grounds and on public roads in various climates. This builds upon the 7.5 million testing miles of the Dodge Durango's platform mate, Jeep Grand Cherokee, for a total of 13.5 million miles for the company's redesigned SUV platform.

Chrysler Group has adopted new manufacturing quality processes from its global alliance partner Fiat as part of the World Class Manufacturing (WCM) initiative. To help consistently execute these standards, the Jefferson North Assembly Plant (JNAP) in Detroit, where the Dodge Durango is built, is the first Chrysler Group assembly plant to house a Metrology Center.

The Metrology Center is a new 20,000-square-foot space within the body shop dedicated to verifying the fit of each body component and how well it conforms to the design requirement.
Quality inspections do not end once Dodge Durango SUVs reach the end of the assembly line. During the initial launch, 60 to 100 newly-built vehicles are randomly selected and driven up to 60 miles in a final verification test to make sure the customer receives top notch quality.

HIGH-TECH FEATURES KEEP PASSENGERS ENTERTAINED AND SECURE
From families taking a long road trip and needing to keep the kids entertained, to sports enthusiasts who don't want to miss the game and teens who can't live without on-line gaming, the all-new 2011 Dodge Durango offers the latest high-tech features to keep driver's eyes on the road and passengers connected. Drivers can communicate, navigate and select entertainment options with advanced voice-recognition controls. Passengers can stay entertained with the latest available features, including, SIRIUS Satellite Radio, SIRIUS Backseat TV and Uconnect Web.

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Chevrolet Aveo Sedan, 2012

 

 

 

 

 

 Chevrolet Aveo Sedan, 2012

Prior to the launch of the highly successful Cruze, the Aveo was Chevrolet's best-selling car globally. An all-new Chevrolet Aveo goes on sale summer 2011 and it is designed to expand on the nameplate's success in the highly competitive small car market. It will be offered as a five-door hatch and as a sedan, each delivering excellent ride and handling characteristics and a sporty and sophisticated design, as well as roominess and fuel efficiency.

Equally at home on the daily commute to work or the weekend drive to the countryside, the new Aveo is a compelling choice for young and young-at-heart, style-conscious drivers - and it complements a range of exciting new Chevrolet designs that will be launched throughout 2011, Chevrolet's centennial year.
The latest edition of the Chevrolet Aveo is an all-new vehicle that includes a completely redesigned exterior and passenger cabin, a newly developed chassis and body structure, as well as an upgraded range of fuel-efficient, low-emission engines.

The Chevrolet Aveo has been engineered to make everyday driving in a small car a more dynamic and enjoyable experience, while delivering practical, hands-on solutions and value. In order to ensure responsive handling, engineers developed an all-new chassis for the Aveo that is among the most rigid in its segment.

Featuring a sporty exterior that speaks Chevrolet's global design language, the all-new Chevrolet Aveo appeals to the young and the young-at-heart. This holds true for both body styles, but especially for the five-door hatchback, with its aggressive, flowing body lines. Meanwhile, the all-new four-door version conveys a more mature, upscale feel. The notchback is aimed at young families in particular.

A road-gripping ride
The new Chevrolet Aveo's sporty driving experience is a key feature that contributes to the car's appeal. It consists of an exceptionally rigid body-frame-integral structure, with the upper body and the frame engineered as a single unit, ensuring a more mass-efficient and stiffer structure. Advanced steels used on the new Aveo have considerably greater tensile strength, which improves passenger safety.

A McPherson strut front suspension with coil springs and stabilizer bar, and a torsion beam axle-mount compound link-type rear suspension, deliver a tempered, stable ride. The vehicle's outstanding feedback to the driver is enhanced by electronic stability control (ESC) and a column-mounted electric power steering system (EPS), which is available on models equipped with the 1.2 liter gasoline or 1.3 liter turbo-diesel engines. This sophisticated support system includes a wear compensator to guarantee consistently precise steering as the vehicle ages.

Meanwhile, the Chevrolet Aveo's tight body-frame-integral structure is also key to the vehicle's advanced safety performance. In the event of an accident, the roof will be able to carry 4.2 times the car's weight. A carefully tuned set of sensors is wired to six airbags that are standard in Europe, along with a four-channel anti-lock braking system (ABS) with brake assist. In addition, the driver can activate cruise control with speed limiter function. Once the set maximum speed is reached, the system triggers an audible alarm.

The Chevrolet Aveo offers a quiet, relaxed driving experience. Refined noise control measures have, in some instances, resulted in a damping performance that is 10 to 40 percent greater than previously applied materials and techniques.

2 distinctive body styles
The new Chevrolet Aveo's external styling will bring a fresh breath of youth and sportiness to the segment. At the front end, the Aveo's large, dual-port grille with the centrally positioned bowtie immediately identify it as a Chevrolet.

A key signature element distinguishing the Chevrolet Aveo is its exposed, motorcycle-inspired headlamps, which are devoid of any lens cover. They are housed in dual tubes, with high-gloss black bezels and chrome rings. Pronounced wheel arch forms, the 114 mm offset between the roof-rails and short overhangs underscore the hatchback's planted, assertive posture.

As is the case in the Chevrolet Spark, the hatchback's rear door pull handles are positioned in the upper section of the door, creating a coupe-like appearance. The hatchback's taillamps have no lens cover and play harmoniously with the vehicle's front-end design. In contrast, the notchback's rear lamps are enveloped by a dual element lens, delivering a touch of chic to the sleek, aerodynamically refined sedan. The Chevrolet Aveo Sedan is 360 mm longer than the hatchback, which measures 4039 mm in length.

All wheels feature Chevrolet's five-spoke design and are available in the following sizes and styles: 15-inch steel and alloy, as well as 16-inch and 17-inch alloy.

Sporty sophistication inside
A high level of detail applied in the design of the Chevrolet Aveo's passenger cabin has resulted in a more upscale execution that is typically seen in higher-segment vehicles. On the same trim level, there is no difference in interior layout or styling between the hatchback and the sedan.

The Chevrolet Aveo's distinctive dual-cockpit has been derived from the Chevrolet Corvette - one of the world's most iconic sports cars. It incorporates another distinctive design element - a wraparound instrument panel that flows into the driver's and front passenger's door. To the left and the right, round HVAC outlets protrude from the instrument panel surface.

The instrument cluster further carries the motorcycle theme apparent on the exterior, incorporating a round speedometer and a digital LCD readout. Ice-blue ambient backlighting adds a stylish, contemporary feel to the cabin.

Smartly designed stowage features enhance Chevrolet Aveo's attention to detail. Along with two glove boxes, including one with an integrated USB outlet, various small compartments and door pockets, as well as three cupholders at the front, provide generous storage space for items of many sizes. All electronic devices installed in the upper glove-box can be operated through the steering-wheel controls or radio interfaces.

The notchback's trunk provides 502 liters of cargo volume, ranking it among the best in class; the equivalent of 653 liters can be stored in the hatchback's rear, when the rear seat is folded - more than enough for a weekend foray or the preceding drive to the mall.

Efficient and fuel-saving powertrains
Fuel efficiency and enjoyable driving that creates a small environmental footprint were the main criteria guiding the design of the Chevrolet Aveo's engine lineup. The 1.6 liter gasoline engine (115 hp) gives the Aveo strong acceleration characteristics and an immediate feeling of performance during low-speed driving.

The petrol engine range also includes two 1.2 liter versions rated at 70 hp and 86 hp, respectively, a 1.4 liter unit (100 hp) and a 1.6 liter engine (115 hp). From this autumn, the new Chevrolet Aveo will also be offered with a 1.3 liter turbo-diesel engine - the first in a small Chevrolet in Europe - featuring common-rail fuel injection, start/stop technology and a variable-geometry turbocharger.

The 1.2 liter, 1.4 liter and 1.6 liter four-cylinder gasoline engines feature dual-overhead camshafts and variable valve timing. Their a cast-iron cylinder block is based on a hollow frame structure. The 1.2 liter and 1.4 liter engines feature a cast-iron bedplate that provides a stiffer structure, resulting in quieter and smoother engine performance. The 1.6 liter engine has a toothed timing belt that has a change interval of every 10 years or 160,000 kilometers.

Fuel consumption on a combined cycle is 5.1 liters/100 km for the 86 hp version of the 1.2 liter engine and 6.6 liters/100 km in the case of the 1.6 liter engine coupled with a manual transmission. The 1.2 liter Ecotec gasoline engine will emit 119 g of CO2 per km.

The Aveo will be the first Chevrolet small car to sport a six-speed automatic transmission. One of its principal advantages is the positioning of the gear sets which have been placed on the same axis as the engine crankshaft centerline. Among the benefits resulting from this modification are a shorter powertrain, a lower hood line and increased interior space.

Ride & Handling
The Chevrolet Aveo delivers ride comfort and responsive handling traits that are designed to match the best in the segment. It is a car developed for global markets, but engineers tuned the Aveo specifically for the driving tastes of European customers, giving it a more athletic feel and balancing the vehicle for a broad range of driving conditions.

The Chevrolet Aveo's ride is tempered, stable and comfortable over virtually all road surfaces. It is fun to drive, while displaying vehicle dynamics usually associated with cars in higher price brackets. Moreover, various enhancements to its structural design and powertrain systems have resulted in a vehicle that is very quiet.

A tight chassis for confident road command
A wheelbase of 2525 mm, combined with wide, 1509 mm front and rear tracks, give the Chevrolet Aveo a firmly planted stance, which contribute to a balanced driving experience. The key enabler to its stability and confident road feel, however, is a very tight body-frame-integral (BFI) structure that ranks among the stiffest in the global small-car segment. Throughout the vehicle's structure, 10 percent more spot welds are used, while some of the steel selected to build the new Aveo exhibits tensile strengths of more than 1000 MPa or higher - twice as strong as the 340 to 550 MPa seen in the previous generation.

The chassis' main underbody rails run continuously from front to rear, providing great strength. A long, six-mount engine cradle contributes to lower noise levels, and smoother ride and handling dynamics. Specifically tuned engine mounts - including a hydraulic mount - are tailored to the engine's inherent torque axis, effectively disrupting the transmission of vibration and noise. This configuration also helps control the transfer of momentum, resulting in improved dynamic balance.

Complementing the strong body structure are suspension systems tuned for responsive ride and handling qualities. All models feature a McPherson strut front suspension with coil springs, stabilizer bar and side-load-compensated front strut modules. These are designed to reduce the sliding friction by the bending load on the strut inherent to most suspension geometries. Side load compensation, in turn, allows for the front wheels to be moved further outward, which is key to achieving improved stability.

The rear suspension incorporates a specifically adapted compound crank (torsion beam), with a double-wall, tubular V-shape beam profile with gas-charged shock absorbers. This design combines all the advantages of a conventional torsion beam axle - minimal space requirements - with low weight and consistent camber control. Thanks to the rear suspension's compact dimensions, the 46 liter fuel tank fits between the rear wheels, enabling a lower mounting position of the seats for greater overall vehicle balance.

Sophisticated noise abatement
A stiffer structure also facilitates insulation of the powertrain and suppression of road and wind noise. Due to a drag co-efficient of 0.30, the Chevrolet Aveo has an excellent wind noise rating of 40.5 decibels at highway speed. Special damping mats, which are tailored to each specific powertrain package, act as an abatement to high-frequency noise transfer. Other measures aimed at achieving a quiet, pleasant cabin comfort level include the use of thicker glass for the windshield and windows, and the application of composite nylon baffles in various structural intrusions and of formed resin or felt blanket on the underside of the hood.

Liquid-applied sound deadening (LASD), by means of melt-on patches, is strategically applied to the interior body structure, dampening smaller section interfaces that may resonate over time. When compared to more conventional, adhesively applied damping material, these patches fit almost perfectly into the areas they are applied to. As a result, LASD achieves 10 to 40 percent greater damping performance over adhesively applied materials.

Small turn radius and advanced driving aid systems
An array of electronic systems assist the driver in maneuvering the Chevrolet Aveo through everyday traffic and more challenging driving situations. Turning diameter measures a tight 10.1 meters curb-to-curb, and less than three turns lock-to-lock, which are amongst the best in segment. In 1.2 and 1.3 liter diesel-equipped cars, a column-mounted electric power steering system (EPS) is available, which saves fuel when compared with an engine-driven power steering pump. In order to ensure precise steering action over the system's life, a wear compensator continually adjusts its interaction with the steering gear. This GM-engineered proprietary technology is an uncommon refinement in the segment.

The standard electronic stability control (ESC) system may apply individual brakes selectively to counterbalance oversteer and understeer, helping the driver maintain control. It also ensures more precise, controlled performance of the anti-lock system as well as exceptional traction and yaw stability.

The Chevrolet Aveo is equipped with a four-channel anti-lock braking system (ABS) that uses data input from wheel-speed sensors to reduce stopping distances. The enhanced steering control during braking maneuvers coupled with the brake assist system (BAS) allows for more efficient emergency braking. An integrated electronic brake distribution (EBD) system proportions brake pressure.

Front disc and rear drum brakes are standard, along with low-compressibility brake-pads. The front brakes feature vented single 54 or 60 mm piston steel calipers, depending on the powertrain, while at the rear, 19 or 20.6 mm piston steel cylinders are used.

The Exterior Design
In line with its agile, athletic disposition, the all-new Aveo exhibits a purposeful, assertive appearance. From every angle, the redesigned Chevrolet Aveo Sedan and five-door models feature exterior forms that convey strength, stability and sportiness. A 114 mm offset between the roof rails and shoulder line, along with a track width of 1509 mm and pronounced wheel arches, ensure a confident, grounded posture. Progressive, raked body lines imply performance and suggest swift movement even when the car is stationary.

The five-door hatchback and four-door sedan versions share a number of design cues that immediately identify them as a Chevrolet. One of the most prominent exterior features is the large, dual-port grille. It consists of honeycomb grille inserts in matte-finish black and chrome surrounds in the upper ports of up-level LT and LTZ models. The iconic badge is center-positioned and sculpted into the cross bar separating the upper and lower grille ports. It is also located on the liftgate, carrying an acrylic-encased dimpled gold finish for a crisp, three-dimensional appearance.

The key design element distinguishing the new Chevrolet Aveo is its exposed, round headlamps. They are devoid of the traditional lens cover and were inspired by the lighting seen on motorcycles. Two dual tubes, with high-gloss black bezels and chrome rings, carry the quad-reflector lamps, bringing a sparkling look to the face of the vehicle. Lower outboard bezels finished in anthracite gray molded-in color and house fog lamps (top trim only).

The hood surface features a subtle centerline crease and crisp outboard scallops, running from the cowl to the forward hood line for a swept, aggressive appearance. A more forward-positioned cowl line and the Chevrolet Aveo's sharply inclined windshield result in a bold, aerodynamic expression.
All wheels feature Chevrolet's five-spoke design and are available in 15 inch steel, as well as 15, 16, and 17 inch alloy styles.

Chevrolet Aveo hatchback: coupe-like appearance with five-door functionality
While both the hatchback and the sedan speak a design language that appeals to the young and young-at-heart, their shapes differ in several important aspects. The five-door hatchback comes in a tight, two-box package, with aggressive diving feature lines and short front and rear overhangs. A sharply forward-swept shoulder line extends from the upper rear corner of the greenhouse to the front wheel arches. It runs in parallel to the lower body side scallop, accentuating the hatchback's forward-moving dynamic.

Other distinctive Chevrolet cue is the hatchback's rear door pull handles, which are almost invisible at the rear upper portion of the door behind the glass. Just as in the smaller Chevrolet Spark, the result is a three-door-like appearance with five-door functionality. The front-door handles are mold-in color black on base models and body-color-matched on LT and LTZ models. Beltline chrome moldings are also available on LTZ models.

The rear hatch glass is curved at the outboard edges to flow in unison with the vehicle's rear quarters - a level of sophistication usually found in more premium segments. A standard body-color matched spoiler for enhanced aerodynamic performance runs along the upper and side perimeter of the rear window.
Similar to the layout of the headlamps, the hatchback's taillamps are exposed and consist of dual element reflector lamps framed by high-gloss black bezels and chrome rings - a contrast that plays in harmony with the execution seen at the front of the vehicle.

An upscale, sleek presence for the Chevrolet Aveo Sedan
The Chevrolet Aveo sedan shares the hatchback's purposeful, swift look, but features a number of characteristics that contribute to a more upscale, mature appearance. It is longer and wider (4399 mm x 735 mm) than its predecessor, while its trunk has a cargo capacity of 502 liters - a 102 liter increase over the previous model.
A rearward-sweeping roofline, which leads to a slightly "shelved" upper rear quarter, delivers a visual suggestion of the sedan's wind-cutting sleekness. The rear window was extended toward the front of the vehicle, resulting in improved rear occupant headroom, aerodynamic refinement and greater overall visibility.

A slight spoiler lip is integrated into the upper rear trailing edge of the deck lid to further improve airflow. In contrast to the arrangement featured on the hatchback, the taillamps on the Chevrolet Aveo Sedan carry a dual-element lens. The red lens leads the eye to the white lens reverse lights. The result is a more upscale aesthetic expected of a sedan. The rear fascia carries a mold-in lower spoiler that contributes to the Chevrolet Aveo Sedan's already excellent aerodynamic shape.

Both the sedan and the hatchback sport a touchpad actuator on the liftgate, contributing to a smooth, refined opening action.

Precision work: minimized body panel gaps and weld joints
The exterior fit and finish on the new Chevrolet Aveo exemplify the attention to detail apparent throughout the vehicle. Door-to-door, door-to-fender, hood-to-fender, and lamp-to-fascia gaps, for example, are all 3.5 mm or less.

All surfaces are free of cladding or unnecessary applications, delivering a unembellished, pure appearance. Secondary surfaces, such as areas seen around door rings upon vehicle entry and exit, have been styled for a flush, finished appearance. This was achieved through welding techniques that ensure a cleaner surface in these areas as well as minimizing sealing between sheet joints and improving corrosion protection.

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Cadillac CTS Coupe, 2011

 Cadillac CTS Coupe, 2011

The Cadillac CTS Coupe is a new luxury sports coupe designed to become the centerpiece of the brand's revised lineup.
The Coupe joins the Cadillac CTS Sport Sedan, the 556-horsepower (415 kW) CTS-V and new CTS Sport Wagon as the foundation of Cadillac's lineup. A high-performance V-Series edition of the Coupe will also be released in 2010.

The Cadillac CTS Coupe's design carries over virtually unchanged from the concept car that was introduced at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit in 2008.

The Coupe is a classic 2+2 layout bolstered with advanced technology, such as a rear-view camera system and a performance-oriented suspension system coupled to rear-wheel or all-wheel drive.

Design
Cadillac CTS Coupe emerged as a proposal inside Cadillac's design studio, where designers have developed and evolved the brand's Art and Science design philosophy.
The coupe has the same wheelbase as the CTS, but an overall height that is approximately two inches (51 mm) lower and an overall length that is two inches (51 mm) shorter.

Although it draws from its sport sedan sister, the Cadillac CTS Coupe shares only the instrument panel, console, headlamps, front fenders and grille. Key design features :

• Classic hardtop styling, with no conventional B-pillar
• Touch-pad operation for the doors removes the need for conventional door handles, creating a technical, clean profile
• A windshield laid at a faster angle (62.3 degrees) and a long, nearly horizontal backglass area combine to create a sleek, aerodynamic look
• Sculpted lower front fascia with unique brake-cooling vents
•     * Diamond cut-style rear fascia with mesh lower grilles
• Center-outlet exhaust with twin dihedral-shaped tips that pass through the rear fascia
• Signature vertical lighting, highlighted with LED light pipes
• Rear spoiler integrated into the center high-mounted stop lamp
• Sculpted roof-mounted antenna for OnStar and XM Satellite Radio

At first glance, the shape of Cadillac CTS Coupe is refreshingly simple, yet amplified with intricately carved details. Distinctive and original Cadillac signature cues combine with hand-sculpted forms, artfully articulating the confidence of the chassis. For example, the rear fenders were purposefully developed by hand in Cadillac design studios to visually acknowledge the RWD powertrain. The gestured profile, coupled with Cadillac's vertical taillamps and pronounced rear centerline, aim to achieve the most visually confident coupe in the segment.

Performance
The Cadillac CTS Coupe extends Cadillac's emerging performance credentials. The Cadillac CTS Coupe's standard powertrain consists of a direct injected 3.6L V-6 and six-speed manual transmission. Direct injection technology delivers fuel more precisely to increase the efficiency of combustion, enabling more power while maintaining fuel economy and lowering emissions - including a 25-percent drop in cold-start hydrocarbon emissions.

The 3.6L DI engine is rated at 304 horsepower (227 kW) and offers EPA-estimated fuel economy of 27 mpg on the highway. It also runs on less expensive regular unleaded gasoline.

The powertrain's performance is channeled through a chassis that delivers sports car performance without punishment. The hardware includes an independent short/long arm ( SLA) front suspension system, with hydraulic control arm front bushings; and a multi-link rear suspension mounted on a fully isolated subframe. Also included are four-wheel disc performance brakes, premium steering and limited-slip differential.

Two suspension-tuning levels are available: a Performance Package with 18-inch wheels and all-season tires (available in both RWD and AWD,) and the Summer Tire Performance Package, with 19-inch tires and wheels and a higher level of road holding capability. StabiliTrak, the advanced electronic chassis control system, is standard.

The 304-horsepower (227 kW) 3.6L V-6 Direct Injection engine will be standard, equipped with a six-speed manual, featuring a revised clutch and dual-mass flywheel that offers better clutch pedal feel and improved engine isolation. A 6-speed automatic transmission with Driver Shift Control (and available steering wheel mounted shift buttons) is optional.

Technology
Cadillac CTS Coupe blends handcrafted luxury with a contemporary, driver-focused interior that supports the car's high-performance capabilities. The interior includes hand-sewn accents covering the door, center storage console and instrument panel trim. 14-Way adjustable Recaro sport seats, previously exclusively offered on Cadillac's V-Series model, will be offered on all Cadillac CTS Coupe models as an option.

The car offers a host of advanced technologies:

• Integrated iPod/MP3 capability
• 40-gig hard drive, including the ability to store music and pause-and-replay live radio
• Pop-up navigation system
• Adaptive forward lighting system
• Bluetooth connectivity
• Standard Keyless Access and Smart Remote Start
• Rear Camera system
• Bose 5.1 Cabin Surround audio system

As with other Cadillac models, the Cadillac CTS Coupe comes standard with OnStar with Turn-by-Turn Navigation, the first factory-installed, fully integrated GPS navigation system from OnStar.

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McLaren MP4-12C GT3, 2011

 

 

 

 

 

 McLaren MP4-12C GT3, 2011

The McLaren GT, a new race car manufacturer which brings together the expertise of McLaren Racing, McLaren Automotive and CRS Racing, unveiled the McLaren MP4-12C GT3 race car and plans for a 2011 development programme.

The new McLaren MP4-12C GT3  be the first McLaren car built for FIA GT series racing since the McLaren F1 GTR finished production in1997. The 12C GT3 is based on the new MP4-12C high-performance sports car and a team of engineers, designers and test drivers with vast experience in Formula 1 and GT racing has been assembled to undertake the process of adapting the carbon chassis-based 12C to racing specification.

Drivers and FIA approved races confirmed for 2011
McLaren GT aims to deliver the highest quality, most reliable and most driveable car on the GT3 grid when 20 cars are delivered to privateer teams for racing in Europe in 2012. The unique combination of McLaren and CRS Racing's technology and development methodology is matched by McLaren GT's appointment of experienced and successful racing drivers to develop the 12C GT3 at challenging races over the 2011 season.

McLaren GT plans to debut the new McLaren MP4-12C GT3 at this season's Blancpain Endurance Series race at Spain's Circuito de Navarra, followed by Magny-Cours in France and Silverstone in England. As part of the development programme for the 12C GT3, McLaren GT also expects to enter the Total 24 Hours of Spa endurance race.
CRS Racing Team Principal Andrew Kirkaldy will be joined by 2010 Vodafone McLaren Mercedes test driver Oliver Turvey and Portuguese racing driver Álvaro Parente in the McLaren GT driver line-up for the 2011 development programme.
McLaren fans eager to see McLaren's first GT racing car since the legendary McLaren F1 GTR can expect to see the new 12C GT3 driven up the famous Hill at Goodwood Festival of Speed from 01-03 July 2011.

McLaren MP4-12C GT3 development targets
McLaren GT comprises a team of designers, engineers and test drivers with vast experience in developing successful race and road cars. Marcus Waite, McLaren GT Chief Engineer, began his career working with the McLaren Formula 1 Simulation Group. A move onto the Formula 1 team where he was Senior Test Team Engineer for many years was then followed by his appointment to McLaren Automotive as Test Team Leader responsible for the new MP4-12C sports car. Combining practical experience of Formula 1 car development methodology and a deep understanding of the 12C road car's technical specification is invaluable to McLaren GT.

The McLaren MP4-12C: The essence of a race car
Racing experience and development tools have played a key part in readying the 12C GT3 for its 2011 race programme. But, before the racing car takes to the competitive grid, McLaren, in the form of McLaren Automotive set out to develop a high-performance sports car that set new standards for speed, handling, efficiency, braking and driveability: formed from an obsession for aerodynamic purity and lightweight engineering. Assets and goals that make the McLaren MP4-12C a perfect road car from which to develop a race-winning GT car.

Once plans were agreed to take the 12C racing, key members of McLaren Automotive's design and engineering teams were eager to support this natural step at McLaren.
Under the McLaren Orange skin, the 12C GT3 shares the same 75kg carbon 'MonoCell' chassis as the 12C road car. Since the modern McLaren was formed in 1981, the company has used only carbon fibre for the chassis construction of all its road and race cars: it was a natural choice for the heart of the MP4-12C. Lightweight construction and manufacturing innovation through Resin Transfer Moulding was a priority for the engineers and designers responsible for the 12C's chassis. The result is a road car that, at 1301kg, is the lightest in the 'core' sector of the high-performance sports car market.

CRS Racing to deliver on expectations of a new McLaren race car
The prevailing design concept of the new McLaren MP4-12C road car is 'designed around the driver', and this is just one example of McLaren's uncompromising commitment to offering a new driving experience in road and race cars. CRS Racing Team Principal Andrew Kirkaldy brings a decade of GT-level racing experience to McLaren GT and, as the team's project manager, Kirkaldy was able to specify the cockpit and other attributes of the 12C GT3 to ensure restrictions normally associated with GT3 race cars are removed from the McLaren.

Andrew Kirkaldy said: "CRS Racing is delighted to be working with McLaren. The expectations are high and rightly so. Together we share the passion for design, engineering innovation and racing success that will ensure the 12C GT3 is the most competitive in the series from 2012.

Specification and performance reflect McLaren expectations
Just as with the 12C road car, McLaren is working closely with specialist suppliers to deliver an innovative and lightweight car. The 3.8-litre McLaren V8 twin turbo 'M838T' engine supplied in the road car also features in the 12C GT3, but de-tuned to 500 PS (from 600 PS) in order to provide optimum power for this performance-balanced race car.

The new McLaren MP4-12C GT3 will feature a unique engine calibration, bespoke racing transmission developed in partnership with Ricardo (who also developed the engine with McLaren) and a suspension arrangement tuned specifically for racing.
McLaren GT has selected the TAG-400 Engine Control Unit for the new 12C GT3. The TAG-400 is a compact, self-contained engine management system and data logger for race engines designed and built by McLaren Electronic Systems. The procurement of components from suppliers used to working with partners in Formula 1 is another example of McLaren GT delivering on its objective to build a GT3 car of unrivalled quality and reliability.

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Loremo LS Concept, 2006

 

 

 

 

 Loremo LS Concept, 2006

Bavaria is well-known for its innovative car-makers and Loremo AG is the newest of this breed. The company was founded in 2000 by Gerhard Heilmaier, Stefan Ruetz and Uli Sommer and is planning to introduce a small series of the first 1,5 liter (157 mpg) 2 + 2 seater onto the roads. The Loremo is a lightweight vehicle whose development has taken a radical new direction: less is more and the most efficient use of energy is not to use it at all. From this motive new ideas sprang which gradually made it into the design. Even the name Loremo - Low Resistance Mobile - speaks of its streamlining and economy.

The Loremo's construction handbook would make an excellent diet recipe. Slim lines and no unnecessary ballast distinguishes the Loremo from all other cars. Its superior safety concept, excellent aerodynamic characteristics, revolutionary bodywork, the linear cell structure, and a radically new rear-axle keep it in form. It combines the economy of a compact car with the handling and feelings of a sports car. The Loremo LS - light and simple is a car which awakens emotions and yearns for sinuous roads.

Bodywork and chassis concept
The 95kg (209 lb) lightweight steel chassis - a patented linear cell structure - is one of Loremo's key elements. It performs well-above average in crash simulations and provides excellent handling characteristics with its low center of gravity and torsional stiffness. Longitudinal supports, extend at fender height along the length of the entire vehicle, increase stability and ensure that the linear cell structure remains practically undamaged in offset and side crash-tests. The centrally mounted cross-support, on which the roll bars are mounted, stiffens the longitudinal beams and houses the engine.

The non-load-bearing, self-supporting, thermoplastic body panels mould to the linear cell structure and help the Loremo to achieve its aerodynamic shape. This material has a number of advantages: it is light weight, weatherproof, scratch-resistant and it is economical. It substitutes the classical paint by a thin film, in the color of the car, during the manufacturing process. In this way the Loremo receives a high-quality, paint-like surface without environmental- damaging paints.

The intelligent, chassis air-guiding system is perfected with the help of lower tire fins and by the air stream optimized chassis design. The Loremo achieves its optimum driving characteristics with its minimized wind resistance and reduced buoyancy.

The Design
Not only is the energy efficiency reflected in the dynamic, elegant lines of the Loremo but also in its sporting nature. The distinctive, powerful front stretches softly into the extended rear. There is no B-pillar as the panorama roof has no load-bearing function and is simply bolted to the roll-bar. The nose close to the street does away with a monstrous radiator grill and instead an opening provides access to the aerodynamic underside. The LED headlamps give the vehicle both a distinctive look as well as exhibiting tomorrow's display technology.

Unusually the car is entered from the front for which the entire hood of the car including the windshield is tipped forwards, allowing for upright boarding to the interior. The opened front shows the trunk, which also provides additional 600 mm (24 in) of crumple zone. The vertically- opening tailgate provides the entry to the back seats.

The Interior
The Janusseater - two seats are in front of the pyramidal cross-support and two rear-facing behind it - is equipped with super-light ergonomic seats. The seats, embedded in the linear cell structure, create a feeling of sporty security and comfort. There is plenty of room for sporting equipment or for additional suitcases, if the rear-facing seats are not with passengers.

The spartan, sporty interior design does away with unnecessary fittings and its two-ply plastic construction doesn't need any additional finishing. High-quality interior furnishing in alcantara and high-tech fabrics provides spacious luxury and comfort.

If required the Loremo LS can be equipped with a simple air-conditioning system, an on-board PC with navigation system, an mp3 player, and a driver information system.

The Technology
Of particular note is the rear differential-link axle, specially-developed for the Loremo, which combines the advantages of longitudinal- and semi-trailing link axles. With maximum load, the axle is indifferent to toe and camber at full suspension compression. In curves, however, the wheel leans inwards to achieve better lateral traction. An optimal load distribution of 50:50 is achieved by placing the motor centrally and 105/70 R14 low-profile tires give good road holding and perfect straight-line driving.

The 20 PS (15 kw) two-cylinder turbo-diesel motor powers the 450 kg (204 lb) light Loremo LS to up to 160 km/h (100 mph). It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (63 mph) in 20 s and its aerodynamic form achieves a Cw value of 0.20. Fuel consumption: tiny 1.5 liters for 100 km (157 mpg)! Thus the Loremo can travel from Munich to Rome (over 800 miles) on only one 20 liter (5 gallon) tank of fuel.

At only 384 cm (151 in) long, 136 cm (62 in) wide, Loremo AG has developed a true small car. In driving fun the 110 cm (43 in) flat, economical sports car easily runs against the large competitors and all for a purchase price under 11.000.- €

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