Opel Ampera, 2012

 

 

 

 

 

 

•  Opel Ampera, 2012

The Opel Ampera also offered with right-hand drive in the United Kingdom by Opel's sister-brand, Vauxhall.

The five-door, four-seat Opel Ampera is influenced by Opel's award-winning design language of sculptural artistry meets German precision, incorporating several styling cues from the innovative Flextreme and GTC Concept show cars
The Opel Ampera's wheels are turned electrically at all times and speeds. For journeys up to 60 km (MVEG), it runs on electricity stored in the 16-kWh, lithium-ion battery, and emits zero CO2. When the battery's energy is depleted, electricity from an engine-generator extends the Ampera's range to more than 500 km.

The Opel Ampera can be plugged into any household 230v outlet for charging. GM Europe is analyzing the requirements of a recharging infrastructure for plug-in electric cars with energy companies, including Iberdrola of Spain.

Opel Ampera Gets Power and Refinement from Voltec Propulsion System
The revolutionary Opel Ampera will be the first emission-free, electrically driven automobile in Europe suitable for everyday driving. With its Voltec electric propulsion system providing lively acceleration and high levels of refinement, the five-door Opel Ampera seats four passengers in comfort, offers a useful trunk for their luggage, and features an extended range of more than 500 kilometers.

Electricity drives the Opel Ampera's wheels at all times and speeds. For trips up to 60 km (MVEG), power is supplied by the electricity stored in the cutting-edge, 16-kWh, lithium-ion battery.
While driving on electricity delivered by the battery, the Opel Ampera emits zero CO2. When the battery's energy is depleted, a gasoline/E85-fueled engine-generator seamlessly provides electricity to power the electric drive unit while simultaneously sustaining the charge of the battery. This mode of operation extends the range to 500 kilometers, until the battery can be charged by plugging the vehicle's on-board charge system into a standard household 230v outlet.

Opel Ampera gives driver confidence and peace of mind
Unlike a conventional battery-electric vehicle, the Opel Ampera eliminates "range anxiety," giving the confidence and peace of mind that the driver will not be stranded by a depleted battery.

The Opel Ampera's battery pack will be manufactured by GM at the first lithium-ion production facility to be operated by a major automaker in the United States. More than 220 lithium-ion cells in the T-shaped pack provide ample power. The nearly silent electric drive unit delivers 370 Nm of instant torque, the equivalent of 150 horsepower, zero to 100 km/h acceleration in around nine seconds, and a top speed of 161 km/h.

The Opel Ampera will be well-suited to the daily driving schedule of most European customers. For example, approximately 80 percent of German drivers travel less than 50 km daily.
Opel estimates that an electrically driven kilometer in the Opel Ampera will cost about one-fifth compared to a conventional gasoline vehicle, at current fuel prices.

Technical Specifications
    * Vehicle type: 5-door, front-wheel-drive hatchback
    * Category: Extended-Range Electric Vehicle (E-REV)
    * Chassis: independent McPherson struts front, compound crank twist axle rear, four-wheel disc brakes, full regenerative brakes       to maximize energy capture, electric power-assist steering
    * Seating capacity: four
    * Performance
          o Top speed: 161 km/h
          o EV range: 60 km (MVEG cycle)
          o Total range: >500 km
    * Dimensions
          o Wheelbase: 2685 mm
          o Length: 4404 mm
          o Width: 1798 mm
          o Height: 1430 mm
          o Cargo volume: 301 l
    * Battery system
          o Type: lithium-ion
          o Energy: 16 kWh
    * Electric drive unit
          o Power: 150 hp (111 kW)
          o Torque: 370 Nm
    * Exterior
          o Tire and wheel size: specially developed low rolling-resistance tires on 17-inch forged aluminum wheels

Read More

Maserati GranTurismo Sport, 2013

 

 

 

•  Maserati GranTurismo Sport, 2013

The powerful 4.7-litre V8 engine can now deliver a maximum power of 460 HP (338 kW) and a peak torque of 520 Nm, without penalising fuel consumption and emissions. These parameters, coupled with the electro actuated gearbox featuring MC Shift technology for faster gear changes (down to 100 ms), enable the Maserati GranTurismo Sport to reach an impressive top speed of 300 km/h, accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.7 seconds. The version with automatic transmission and MC Auto Shift management software (which is also used in the GranCabrio Sport and Quattroporte Sport GT S) also benefits from significantly enhanced performance, achieving a top speed of 298 km/h and acceleration of 0 to 100 km/h in 4.8 seconds.

With regards to the suspension, the new Maserati GranTurismo Sport is fitted with the Sport Skyhook system, an evolution of the continuous damping control system that makes the car even more reactive and fun to drive, whilst at the same time increasing passenger comfort. In SPORT mode the car is pin sharp in responding to the driver's input, while in normal mode it constantly adapts the damping to absorb the roughness of the surface for a smoother ride. All this equates to a superb handling capability that combines sports performance and comfort in all driving conditions.

The Maserati GranTurismo Sport is available with two different types of transmission: a ZF 6-speed automatic and a 6-speed electro actuated gearbox, with dry twin-plate clutch (not available in North America). The first enhances driving comfort without compromising on performance, while the second offers a more involving driving experience.

External restyling
The restyling of the bodywork has further enhanced its already sporty nature.

The front bumper has been redesigned to improve the air flow and the cooling of the front brakes, whilst at the same time to enhance the appearance of the nose of the car, thanks to a new styling element that unites the space between the new headlights and the traditional oval grille. The chromed trident with red accents takes pride of place at the centre of the grille: a detail reserved to the most powerful Maserati cars, in keeping with the tradition of the marque.

The front light cluster maintains its original profile, but it has been completely redesigned and improved thanks to the addition of DRL LED technology. The new LEDs give the headlights a further style boost as well as improving functionality and visibility, benefitting car safety.

Behind the impressive 20" Astro Design alloy wheels lies the equally impressive braking system of the new Maserati GranTurismo Sport, which employs Brembo dual-cast technology coupled with 6-piston brake calipers at the front and 4-piston brake calipers at the rear. The disc, in a slotted and perforated version, is made of two different materials, cast iron and aluminium, reducing weight by between 15% and 20% and delivering enhanced comfort, reduced corrosion and wear and superior component performance.

The caliper, meanwhile, represents a new feature for Maserati and Brembo in terms of colour, introducing a brand new oxidised blue which, thanks to its matt finish, enhances the car's ultra-sporty nature, emphasising once again the meticulous attention Maserati devotes to detail in order to ensure total customer satisfaction. This extends to even the tiniest design detail, fully embracing the "tailor made" principle.

The rear of the car has been made even sleeker than before thanks to restyled, darker light clusters that accentuate its dramatic look.

The new model introduces a brand new colour called "Blu Sofisticato" which shows off the car's lines to best advantage and frames the countless innovative stylistic features that characterise this new Maserati GranTurismo Sport.

Sporty interior
The interior of the Maserati GranTurismo Sport has been treated to a sporty makeover. Passengers can now relax in an interior where luxury, craftsmanship and attention to detail take on new forms.

Of particular importance are the new front and rear seats, which not only improve and update the look, but also provide a more ergonomic design; the seats offer better support as well as optimised comfort for driver and passengers on longer journeys. The distinctive new design of the rear shell of the front seats, in leather, also frees up more space for rear seat passengers (+20 mm).

Particular attention has been devoted to enhance the dynamic yet refined spirit of the Maserati GranTurismo Sport. New details in EcoChrome grey and the Poltrona Frau leather upholstery, feature alongside sporty elements such as the gearshift paddles on the steering wheel, inspired by the design of the Trofeo race car, and the aluminium pedals.

The steering wheel is also new and is now even more ergonomic and better suited to sports driving, thanks to a flatter rim and a grip with accentuated profile.

With these characteristics, the new Maserati GranTurismo Sport follows in the footsteps of one of the most successful cars in the entire history of Maserati. Since its launch at the Geneva Motor Show, back in 2007, around 15,000 Granturismo models have been delivered to customers all over the world.

In 2011 the GranTurismo range accounted for 44% of the total Maserati sales, with over 2700 cars delivered to clients all over the world. The United States was once again the number one market, not only in terms of overall product range sales, but also sales by model, with almost 900 GranTurismos sold in 2011, followed by China and Italy.

Read More

Brabus smart fortwo electric drive, 2012

 

 

• Brabus smart fortwo electric drive, 2012

For 10 years already smart Brabus has stood for dynamism and sportiness. Since 2002 the company founded by smart and the tuning specialist Brabus from Bottrop have brought top versions of the popular car brand to the market. At the 2012 Geneva Motor Show the Brabus version of the smart fortwo electric drive will show what these look like in the era of electric mobility. The dynamic character of the car is not only expressed in its appearance, but also in enhanced performance.

Dynamic and powerful acceleration: the smart Brabus electric drive
Zero local emissions but maximum driving fun: the smart Brabus electric drive proves that cutting-edge urban mobility can be combined with lively agility and a sporty look. The electric motor is based on the state-of-the-art drive technology of the new smart fortwo electric drive and has an output of 60 kW. The smart Brabus electric drive delivers maximum torque of 135 Nm, which means that it almost always wins when pulling away at the traffic lights. The new Brabus sports suspension makes a decisive contribution to driving fun by bringing the vehicle approximately ten millimetres closer to the asphalt. The sporty character is accompanied by a special Brabus sound to match, generated by a sound module. The smart Brabus electric drive comes with a Brabus sports steering wheel with steering wheel gearshift as a standard feature. Recuperation can be regulated with the help of the shift paddles.

The smart Brabus electric drive has a dynamic look that also signals environmental friendliness: the tridion safety cell and door mirror caps are painted in electric green whilst black dominates on all other body parts - even the front grille. Dark Brabus headlamps, Brabus "Monoblock VII" alloy wheels measuring 16" at the front and 17" at the rear, and Brabus Xclusive aerodynamic body styling parts (a front spoiler and a special rear apron insert with double reflectors) round off the sporty look.

In the interior accent trim parts and contrast components also come in electric green. Numerous Brabus Xclusive components, including the instrument panel and interior door trim in leather look, leather seats, stainless steel sports pedals with rubber nubs, Brabus hand-brake handle and Brabus dashboard instruments (cockpit clock and rev counter) lend the interior a dynamic and exclusive look.

Read More

Fisker Surf, 2013

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

•  Fisker Surf, 2013

In a design masterstroke, Fisker Automotive has created a completely original vehicle: the first electric luxury/sports automobile for an active and eco-friendly lifestyle. The Fisker Surf builds on the success of the ground-breaking Karma Electric Vehicle with extended range (EVer™) by adding additional, flexible load-carrying capability, along with a spirited new attitude all its own.

Fisker Surf combines performance, luxury, style, utility, and economy with an enduring concern for the sustainable use of resources and respect for our natural environment.

As a global company Fisker Automotive will offer the Surf in all its markets around the world for the 2013 model year. The Fisker Surf will create a new niche and open new customer markets for Fisker, by appealing to those looking for this unique blend of advanced technology, innovative design and environmental sensitivity, with added versatility. Europe, in particular, has demonstrated a historic fondness for sport-wagon design, and it is there where Fisker anticipates strong demand.

The Fisker Surf is the first vehicle of its kind and a radical departure from traditional vehicles offered by other manufacturers. It brings added energy to Fisker's focus on Uncompromised Responsible LuxuryTM and Pure Driving PassionTM.

Exterior Design
Very early in the development of the original Karma sedan, company CEO and Executive Design Director, Henrik Fisker decided a more versatile variant would be part of the model lineup. So when the time came for the evolution from Karma to Surf the path had already been defined for combining utility with bold and striking design.

In mid-2009, with the Karma's design settled, preliminary work began on the Surf. Using the Karma as a starting point, lines and angles around the rear quarters were extended for the new roof contour, side window shapes and liftgate.

The design result is perhaps the most elegant production sport-wagon ever made.
A five door vehicle has never looked this sporty with its voluptuous sculptured rear fenders and dynamic side profile. The rear end of the Fisker Surf flows elegantly around to the side of the car with an artfully incorporated roof spoiler adding to the drama of the rear end. The liftgate itself is quite a sophisticated piece, combining utility with an aerodynamic form styled for a distinctive flair. Even the high-mounted LED brake light is seamlessly integrated into the rear hatch and nearly invisible until it illuminates.

Stunning new wheels - still of 22 inch diameter as standard -- are an evolution of the Karma's Circuit BladeTM design, and quite intricate. They make use of a two-color paint scheme separated by machined areas. The bright orange Brembo® brake calipers, exclusive to the Fisker Surf, show boldly through the wheels.

At the front of the car, designers took the opportunity to create a sporty identity for the Fisker Surf with a new three-dimensional honeycomb pattern grille.

The unique solar roof panel that is a Fisker signature has been integrated into the Fisker Surf, with a few twists. The optional solar panel not only captures sunlight to power the car, it is actually see-through, with a dark-tint translucence that adds to the sense of openness inside the car, specifically in the rear seats. Standard is a tinted-glass panoramic roof panel that tilts open at the back for added ventilation.

Integrated roof rails allow for added cargo capacity and have been designed to suit the style of the car.

While the overall stance and dimensions of the Fisker Surf are unchanged from those of the Karma sedan, the new car appears longer and sleeker with its extended roofline and side glass.

The Surf is Fisker's vision of a crossover between a sport car and a station wagon and shows how Fisker is expanding its Karma platform rapidly with additional models that again create a new market niche.

Interior Design
A strong sense of luxury and style compliments the Fisker Surf's flexible capabilities, thanks to the beautifully integrated rework of the luggage and rear passenger areas. Once again, the Karma sedan provided an excellent foundation, with its handsomely crafted interior and thoughtful amenities. The Surf creates its own distinctive identity in the details of its beautiful, versatile cabin.

The cargo area accessed by the Fisker Surf's new liftgate is divided into three functional regions, starting with the trunk space at the rear, for large items such as golf bags and suitcases. Set off forward of that is a raised shelf designers refer to as "the podium," to handily accommodate smaller objects and give useful function to an area constrained by the presence of the electric powertrain's large invertors under the floor.

A third region of the cargo area is created by the individual folding rear seatbacks. Either or both can flip forward to accommodate additional or oversize luggage or gear.

The Surf's center console between the rear seats, under which the car's main battery is located, also incorporates an additional storage bin.

Fisker's design philosophy is evident throughout the Surf's new interior. In addition to integrating the company's signature diamond motifs, there was a clear determination to not settle for the ordinary. The divider panel between the trunk space and the podium is a richly crafted piece with cast aluminum, brushed plating and netting inspired by a high-end catamaran. Similarly, the innovative latch handles to release the rear seat backs are leather-trimmed and developed for their tactile feel. They mirror the fittings on fine designer luggage.

Passenger accommodations take advantage of the Fisker Surf's new roof contour. Headroom is increased significantly in back, thanks to both the higher roofline and the absence of headliner under the tinted glass or solar-electric roof panels. Larger side-window areas also allow improved outward visibility and add a sense of openness.

It's the perfect place to enjoy the active-sports lifestyle that the Surf both expresses and enables.

Technology and Performance
The Fisker Surf takes full advantage of the advanced, high-efficiency powertrain and the innovative space frame architecture of the Karma sedan it is based on. Mechanically, the cars are virtually identical.

As the first true electric vehicle with extended range (EVerTM), the Karma - and now the Surf - use an innovative series-hybrid drive system in which the car is powered only by electrical energy. The onboard gasoline engine drives only a generator. A pair of powerful electric traction motors drive the rear wheels, taking energy from a 20 kWh lithium-iron-phosphate battery pack carried inside the car's central tunnel. A 175kW generator supplies energy to the motors and the batteries. It is driven, only when needed, by the efficient 260 hp turbocharged and direct-fuel-injected gasoline engine.

So just like a diesel-electric locomotive, the Fisker Surf driver always enjoys the instantaneous torque and smooth response, while the internal combustion engine coupled to the electric motors provide increased energy for maximum performance and extended range.

Two driving modes, Sport and Stealth, are available to the driver at all times. In Sport mode, full power is available and the driver can command the unmatched 981 lb-ft (1,330 Nm) of torque to accelerate from 0-60 mph in just 5.9 seconds, and achieve an electronically limited top speed of 125 mph (201 kmh).

In the default Stealth mode, calibrated for efficiency, the Surf uses only battery power and accelerates from 0-60 in 7.9 seconds. Top speed is 95 mph (153 kmh). Under normal driving conditions, battery power alone will drive the Surf about 50 miles (80 km). After that the gasoline engine/generator and 9.5-gal (36 l) fuel tank provide another 250 miles of range for a total of 300 miles (483 km).

Using a standard 110-volt household supply, the Fisker Surf's battery will fully recharge in about 14 hours. The Fisker Surf can also utilize standard European 220-volt outlets, allowing this time to fall to about six hours.

The Fisker Surf and Karma share an innovative architecture that helps deliver sparkling performance while ensuring confident control and a quiet, comfortable ride. The rigid aluminum structure, long wheelbase, sophisticated independent suspension and standard 22-inch wheels form the basis of a lithe, supple and responsive road car. A low center of gravity and 47/53-percent weight distribution help impart a sporting feel.

The massive Brembo brakes work in conjunction with a fully blended regenerative system. During stops, energy that would otherwise be lost as heat is seamlessly recovered and fed back into the battery to help extend range and maximize efficiency.

Sustainability
Like everything Fisker Automotive does, the Fisker Surf has been conceived and developed with a consistent focus on sustainability. That means the car runs cleanly and efficiently, of course. But beyond that, its design and manufacture look to low- environmental-impact alternatives at every opportunity.

The Low-Carbon LeatherTM used in the EcoSportTM interior trim comes from Bridge of Weir, a unique low-emissions and energy self-sufficient tannery in Scotland. EcoStandardTM and EcoChicTM interiors use entirely animal-free materials. Wood for the interior highlights is reclaimed from sunken logs and fire-damaged trees, not cut from living forests. Recycled, reusable and low-impact materials are used for seat cushions, carpet backing, trim pieces and more.

By adamantly pursuing ways to raise efficiency and reduce environmental impact, Fisker Automotive is striving to be the automaker most dedicated to sustainability.

With the stunning new Surf, Fisker has an automobile that expresses the values of an active, environmentally responsible lifestyle better than anything else on the market today.

Read More

Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Coupe Black Series, 2012

 

 

 

 

•  Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Coupe Black Series, 2012

Spectacular design, technology transfer from the world of motorsport and driving dynamics at the highest level; the new Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Coupé Black Series embodies the new AMG brand claim, Driving Performance, like no other AMG model. The new high-performance vehicle is the most powerful C-Class of all time, boasting a maximum output of 380 kW (517 hp) and a maximum torque of 620 newton metres. The AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine impresses with its hefty torque, tremendous pulling power and responsiveness, and ensures high-calibre performance: the Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Coupé Black Series accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 4.2 seconds. Exclusive fun at the wheel comes courtesy of the adjustable AMG coil-over sports suspension, the AMG high-performance compound braking system and the functional standard equipment. The AMG Track Package is available as an option to enhance driving dynamics even further. It boasts sports tyres and active rear-axle transmission cooling, plus the AMG Aerodynamics package including flics, a functionally tuned front splitter and an adjustable carbon-fibre rear aerofoil.

Broad, low, brawny and ready to pounce from a standstill - the Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Coupé Black Series makes a mighty impression. It's clear right from the first time you set eyes on it that the C63 AMG Coupé Black Series is made for ambitious laps on a closed-off race track. In visual terms the new high-performance vehicle is reminiscent of the SLS AMG GT3 customer sports car and symbolises the transfer of technology from the sphere of motorsport, which has been part of the corporate philosophy of Mercedes-AMG GmbH for 44 years now.

With its new C63 AMG Coupé Black Series, AMG is presenting an exciting sports car for enthusiasts who are passionate about sports cars which are big on horsepower, and this marks the impressive continuation of the Black Series strategy, which began back in 2006. AMG, the performance brand of Mercedes-Benz Cars, is once again demonstrating its expertise when it comes to designing and developing emotionally appealing high-performance cars.

Arrow-shaped front section with large cooling air openings
It doesn't matter from which angle you're looking at it: the new Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Coupé Black Series displays its ties with motorsport from every perspective. The arrow-shaped front section with the central Mercedes star in the radiator grille is the visual synonym for its unfettered forwards thrust. The air intakes in the striking front apron ensure reliable air flow through the large cooling modules. Two openings in the aluminium bonnet support the expelling of engine heat, whilst the struts positioned at an angle in the front apron emphasise the vehicle's width. The black front splitter located at the lower end helps to balance the vehicle aerodynamically.

The expressive design continues in the side view: the newly developed front axle with a greater track width calls for new wings, which have been widened by 28 millimetres on each side. "6.3" logos give a nod to the sheer power of the large-displacement eight-cylinder high-speed naturally aspirated engine beneath the bonnet. Air outlets intimated behind the wheel cut-outs call to mind powerful racing cars. The onlooker discovers a black strip on the restyled AMG side skirts - a look which continues the idea of the front splitter. On each side the rear wings have also been widened by 42 millimetres, due to the greater track width of the rear axle. Air openings are hinted at in front of the rear wheels, forming a fitting conclusion.

AMG light-alloy wheels featuring light forging technology
255/35 R 19 and 285/30 R 19 - these are the impressive wheel formats for the Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Coupé Black Series at its market launch. The wheel/tyre combination is mounted on 9 x 19 (front) and 9.5 x 19 (rear) AMG light-alloy wheels, fills out the wings to stunning effect and plays a significant part in the dynamic appearance of this new AMG sports car.

Painted titanium grey, the high-sheen light-alloy wheels are produced using particularly light forging technology - as is the case on the SLS AMG. These forged wheels weigh a total of eleven kilograms less than comparable wheels with a conventional design. The lower weight results in reduced unsprung masses, which improves both the suspension's response and the steering precision.

Broad effect of the tail end with a diffuser insert
The tail end of the Black Series coupé is also a feast for the eyes: the new rear apron with its expressive black diffuser insert creates a broad effect. Just like on the SLS AMG GT3, it protrudes beyond the profile of the rear apron. The black grille on the upper end of the diffuser insert is an eye-catching feature, as is the AMG sports exhaust system: both of the chromed twin tailpipes integrated into the rear apron have an angular cross-section. The spoiler lip on the boot lid is painted in the vehicle colour and reduces lift at the rear axle, resulting in more driving stability at high speeds. The AMG logo with its discreet "Black Series" lettering is reserved exclusively for the Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Coupé Black Series.

Engine with high-tech components from the gull-wing model
A displacement of 6.3 litres, a maximum output of 380 kW (517 hp) and a torque of 620 newton metres from eight cylinders - one glance at the technical data and it's clear that the engineering behind the Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Coupé Black Series is every bit the equal of its sensational appearance. The high-torque M156 naturally aspirated engine was specially refined for the new two-door model, whose forged pistons, connecting rods and the crankshaft with a lightweight design, for example, all come courtesy of the SLS AMG. These measures are flanked by a new engine control unit. As the car's performance proves, the uprated V8 engine has an easy time of it in the coupé: the sprint from standing to 100 is over in 4.2 seconds.

Plenty of pulling power, an agile response and hefty torque - the qualities of the large-displacement AMG high-speed naturally aspirated engine arouse unadulterated passion in the driver. The jewel in the crown is the emotive, hallmark AMG eight-cylinder sound from the AMG sports exhaust system.

The optimised engine oil cooling ensures more performance even when the vehicle is put through its paces in harsh race-track conditions. With the aid of components from the SLS AMG, the AMG experts have managed to give the oil cooler a cooling surface which is 50 percent larger. The tried-and-trusted, innovative AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission takes care of power transmission. Four transmission modes, the double-declutching function and RACE START promise maximum motoring pleasure and a high degree of variability. In the "Sport plus" and "Manual" transmission modes the gear changes take a mere 100 milliseconds.

AMG coil-over sports suspension with an AMG rear axle differential lock
The AMG sports suspension is a sophisticated new development. It has been designed as a coil-over suspension, as is the norm in motorsport - and it represents a hallmark feature of a Black Series model. It offers numerous setting options, and allows the driver to create their own personal set-up. The track width of the axles has been widened by 40 (at the front) and 79 millimetres (at the rear) respectively. In conjunction with the modified torsion-bar stabilisers, the Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Black Series impresses with its pronounced driving dynamics, high grip and low roll angle. The AMG speed-sensitive sports steering facilitates superb vehicle control: the retuned map control for the power assistance ensures optimum steering precision.

The standard-specification AMG rear axle differential lock is responsible for reliable traction in particular for race-track applications. The 3-stage ESP® offers the ideal solution for all driving situations: via the ESP® button the driver can choose from the "ESP ON", "Sport Handling Mode" and "ESP OFF" stages. In view of the increased driving dynamics, not only has the anti-lock braking system been completely retuned; the AMG high-performance braking system has also been redeveloped: a larger braking system is now used, with discs featuring compound technology proven in motorsport at the front axle (format: 390 x 36 millimetres) and integral discs at the rear axle (360 x 26 mm). Red-painted six-piston fixed callipers at the front and four-piston fixed callipers at the rear reliably decelerate the perforated, fade-resistant brake discs, which are ventilated all round.

Interior with a functional motor-racing atmosphere
The captivating high-tech components and the spectacular exterior design both find their logical continuation in the interior of the Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Coupé Black Series, which is black with red highlight elements, displaying the functional atmosphere of a true racing vehicle, whilst at the same time positively glowing with high quality and lovingly crafted details. Two AMG sports bucket seats facilitate the best levels of lateral support and thus optimum vehicle control on the race track. The black DINAMICA microfibre upholstery on the centre panels of the seats and doors is a new type of synthetic fibre which is characterised by its high lightfastness. The omission of the rear bench seat underlines the vehicle's sporty character and reduces its weight. As an option the C63 AMG Coupé Black Series is also available as a four-seater including the AMG sports seats familiar from the Mercedes C63 AMG Coupé - and with single seats in the rear.

The AMG performance steering wheel in nappa leather/DINAMICA microfibre with a steering wheel rim featuring flattened top and bottom sections has aluminium shift paddles for manual gear changes. Red seat belts and red contrasting topstitching on the steering wheel, on the seats, door centre panels, armrests on the doors, the centre console and on the shift lever gaiter add some interesting highlights. An exclusive "Black Series" logo adorns the trim on the dashboard, which sports a high-gloss black piano-lacquer look. The dashboard with three autonomous round dials has a three-dimensional TFT colour display. On opening the vehicle door the driver is greeted by AMG lettering. Possible displays for the engine oil temperature, the ESP® mode or the gear selection are integrated into the AMG main menu. The rotary switch for the C, S, S+ and M transmission modes and RACE START is located on the centre console next to the selector lever with a DINAMICA microfibre cover.

The Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Coupé Black Series is proof positive that high driving dynamics and excellent active and passive safety need not necessarily be mutually exclusive: five airbags, belt tensioners and belt-force limiters for all seats are part of the standard specification, as are the anti-lock braking system ABS, the 3-stage ESP®, Headlamp Assist, the tyre pressure loss warning system and cruise control with SPEEDTRONIC variable speed limiter.

The standard specification:

•     AMG door sills in stainless steel, brushed, with AMG logo
•     AMG sports pedals in brushed stainless steel, with rubber studs
•     Audio 20 CD radio with double tuner, colour display, Bluetooth® interface, hands-free function, USB interface and eight loudspeakers
•     THERMATIC automatic climate control

AMG Track Package and AMG Aerodynamics package
AMG has two special packages to offer for enhancing driving dynamics even further: the AMG Track Package comprises 255/35 R 19 front and 285/30 R 19 rear sports tyres from Dunlop. They have been exclusively developed for the Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Coupé Black Series, and they tangibly and measurably increase grip. Active rear-axle transmission cooling improves performance in punishing race-track conditions. The radiator is located in the rear apron and the airflow passes through it effectively.

What are known as flics are part of the AMG Aerodynamics package. They are made of genuine carbon fibre and located on the front apron. Also included in the package are a functionally tuned front splitter made of genuine carbon fibre and a fixed carbon-fibre rear aerofoil with an adjustable blade. Both components not only increase the lift at the front and rear axle; they also optimise the vehicle's aerodynamic balance.

Other optional extras:

•     AMG Exterior Carbon-Fibre package (cross strut in front apron, exterior mirror housing, inserts on the side sill panel, diffuser insert and spoiler lip in genuine carbon fibre)
•     AMG light-alloy wheels featuring forging technology, painted in matt black with a high-sheen finish on the rim flange, with 255/35 R 19 and 285/30 R 19 tyres
•     AMG carbon-fibre trim
•     Fire extinguisher
•     Intelligent Light System ILS
•     KEYLESS-GO
•     Tinted side/rear windows

Four captivating Black Series models since 2006
Whilst its driving dynamics are totally suited to the race track, the new Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Coupé Black Series offers all the properties which characterise a true Mercedes-Benz: suitability for everyday use, durability, safety and quality.

The most powerful C-Class of all time is the fourth Black Series model to be launched since 2006. The first one was the SLK55 AMG Black Series. The AMG 5.5-litre V8 engine in the decidedly puristic two-seater enticed customers with its maximum output of 294 kW (400 hp) and a torque of 520 newton metres, and between July 2006 and April 2007 120 units were produced. The CLK63 AMG Black Series followed directly in its footsteps. The two-seater coupé was powered by an AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine with 373 kW (507 hp) and a torque of 630 newton metres. Between April 2007 and March 2008 700 vehicles were made.

The highlight up until now was the SL65 AMG Black Series, which was unveiled in July 2008: the high-performance coupé still captivates drivers today with its spectacular appearance, unique performance data, systematic lightweight construction and exclusivity of the highest calibre. The AMG 6.0 litre V12 biturbo engine with a maximum output of 493 kW (670 hp) and torque of 1000 newton metres made the SL65 AMG Black Series the most powerful AMG vehicle ever to enter series production. In total there were 350 units built from September 2008 to August 2009.

The Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Coupé Black Series is celebrating its world premiere during the Formula 1 race on the Nürburgring, the German Grand Prix (23-24 July 2011). The market launch will follow in January 2012, and its sales price is 115,430 euros (incl. 19% VAT).

Read More

Mazda MX-5 GT Concept, 2012

 

 

 

 

•   Mazda MX-5 GT Concept, 2012

Mazda debuted a road legal 205bhp Mazda MX-5 GT Concept at the 2012 Goodwood Festival of Speed. The Mazda MX-5 GT Concept was on display throughout the festival on Mazda's stand, as well as taking part in the hillclimb in the 'First Glance' category.

The Mazda MX-5 GT Concept has been inspired by Mazda's podium winning MX-5 GT race programme and its debut at Goodwood is to test customer reaction to a high performance version of the iconic sportscar. Built by race specialists Jota Sport, the Mazda MX-5 GT Concept produces 205bhp from a normally aspirated 2.0-litre Mazda petrol engine which is mated to the car's standard manual gearbox. Suspension has been uprated to improve handling and is adjustable for different track conditions, aerodynamic assistance comes from a carbon front splitter, a rear diffuser and boot spoiler. The exhaust note has been enhanced with a sports exhaust system with a central tailpipe. Recaro seats enhance the driver stability and the interior features a number of carbon enhancements that help reduce weight. For customers who want to acquire the car for track use, it comes equipped with road slicks and body-coloured roll hoops behind the seats.

Joining the Mazda MX-5 GT Concept on the stand was the Mazda Takeri sedan concept, a close indication of the design direction of the future Mazda6, along with the recently launched all-new Mazda CX-5 compact SUV, the first car to adopt Mazda's revolutionary SKYACTIV technology which improves fuel economy and reduces CO2 emissions without compromising driving enjoyment.

Mazda has also entered the World's fastest and most powerful MX-5 in the Goodwood hillclimb. Sponsored by SMH Fleet Solutions, Jota Aviation, Total Lubricants and Mazda Financial Services, the Jota Sport Mazda MX-5 GT4 is currently contesting the 2012 British GT Championship and took third in class at Brands Hatch this weekend. Competing against Lotus, Aston Martin, Ginetta and Ferrari racecars, the MX-5 GT boasts a top speed of 160mph and a 0-60 time of just three seconds, making this a very special MX-5.

Drivers for the Goodwood Festival of Speed are regular Mazda racers Mark Ticehurst and Owen Mildenhall and kart racer Jade Paveley, who at just 19 years-old, is one of the youngest drivers at the festival.

Read More