Ford C-MAX Solar Energi Concept, 2014

 

 

Ford C-MAX Solar Energi Concept, 2014

The Ford Motor Company announced the Ford C-MAX Solar Energi Concept, a first-of-its-kind sun-powered vehicle with the potential to deliver the best of what a plug-in hybrid offers - without depending on the electric grid for fuel.

Instead of powering its battery from an electrical outlet, Ford C-MAX Solar Energi Concept harnesses the power of the sun by using a special concentrator that acts like a magnifying glass, directing intense rays to solar panels on the vehicle roof.

The result is a concept vehicle that takes a day's worth of sunlight to deliver the same performance as the conventional C-MAX Energi plug-in hybrid, which draws its power from the electric grid. Ford C-MAX Energi gets a combined best miles per gallon equivalent in its class, with EPA-estimated 108 MPGe city and 92 MPGe highway, for a combined 100 MPGe. By using renewable power, Ford C-MAX Solar Energi Concept is estimated to reduce the annual greenhouse gas emissions a typical owner would produce by four metric tons.

Ford C-MAX Solar Energi Concept, which will be shown at the 2014 International CES in Las Vegas, is a collaborative project of Ford, San Jose, Calif.-based SunPower Corp. and Atlanta-based Georgia Institute of Technology.

Strong electrified vehicle sales
The C-MAX Solar Energi Concept debuts as Ford caps a record year of electrified vehicle sales.
Ford expects to sell 85,000 hybrids, plug-in hybrids and all-electric vehicles for 2013 - the first full year its six new electrified vehicles were available in dealer showrooms.

C-MAX Energi is Ford's plug-in sales leader, with sales of more than 6,300 through November. Ford sold more plug-in vehicles in October and November than both Toyota and Tesla, and it outsold Toyota through the first 11 months of 2013. Plug-in hybrids continue to grow in sales as more customers discover the benefits of using electricity to extend their driving range.

C-MAX Hybrid over the last year has been a key driver in helping Ford sell more hybrids than any other automaker in the United States, second only to Toyota. C-MAX Hybrid continues to bring new customers to the Ford brand, with a conquest rate of 64 percent and drawing nearly half of its sales from import brands. Conquest rates are even higher in key hybrid growth markets like San Francisco, Los Angeles and Washington, D.C.

Breakthrough clean technology
SunPower, which has been Ford's solar technology partner since 2011, is providing high-efficiency solar cells for the roof of Ford C-MAX Solar Energi Concept. Because of the extended time it takes to absorb enough energy to fully charge the vehicle, Ford turned to Georgia Institute of Technology for a way to amplify the sunlight in order to make a solar-powered hybrid feasible for daily use.

Researchers developed an off-vehicle solar concentrator that uses a special Fresnel lens to direct sunlight to the solar cells while boosting the impact of the sunlight by a factor of eight. Fresnel is a compact lens originally developed for use in lighthouses. Similar in concept to a magnifying glass, the patent-pending system tracks the sun as it moves from east to west, drawing enough power from the sun through the concentrator each day to equal a four-hour battery charge (8 kilowatts).

With a full charge, Ford C-MAX Solar Energi Concept is estimated to have the same total range as a conventional C-MAX Energi of up to 620 miles, including up to 21 electric-only miles. Additionally, the vehicle still has a charge port, and can be charged by connecting to a charging station via cord and plug so that drivers retain the option to power up via the grid, if desired.

After Ford C-MAX Solar Energi Concept is shown at CES, Ford and Georgia Tech will begin testing the vehicle in numerous real-world scenarios. The outcome of those tests will help to determine if the concept is feasible as a production car.

Off-the-grid car
By tapping renewable solar energy with a rooftop solar panel system, C-MAX Solar Energi Concept is not dependent on the traditional electric grid for its battery power. Internal Ford data suggest the sun could power up to 75 percent of all trips made by an average driver in a solar hybrid vehicle. This could be especially important in places where the electric grid is underdeveloped, unreliable or expensive to use.

The vehicle also reinforces MyEnergi Lifestyle, a concept revealed by Ford and several partners at 2013 CES. MyEnergi Lifestyle uses math, science and computer modeling to help homeowners understand how they can take advantage of energy-efficient home appliances, solar power systems and plug-in hybrid vehicles to significantly reduce monthly expenses while also reducing their overall carbon footprint.

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Fiat 500 Cult, 2014

 

 

 Fiat 500 Cult, 2014

The Fiat 500 Cult is the new top-of-the-range version offering an exclusive level of style, technological content and performance to the most demanding and scrupulous customers of the iconic Fiat. In particular, available in saloon or cabrio configurations, the new and exclusive trim level represents the perfect synthesis of distinctive look and innovation which, once again, highlights the Fiat 500's 'trend-setting' spirit.

Fiat 500 Cult can come in one of the range's body colours, including the new Lattementa Green, all teamed with the elegant roof: one part fixed glass and the other glossy black paintwork. The end result is a refined colour combination that confirms, once more, that for the iconic Fiat colour is not merely a question of aesthetics, but an integral part of a product philosophy founded on character, style and maximum scope for personalisation. Additionally, the new Three-layer White will be available on the cabrio version.

The same style is found inside, where the new leather seats stand out - a choice of black leather (ivory or red inserts), tobacco leather or red leather (both with ivory inserts) - an attractive match with the dashboard painted the same colour as the body. The new upholstery was designed to offer the best possible ergonomics, guaranteeing comfort and character in a single solution.

The new 500 Cult is available with the 95 HP 1.3 MultiJet II turbodiesel, the 69 HP 1.2 and 85 HP 0.9 TwinAir Turbo petrol engines (both also available with Dualogic robotized gearbox) and the new 105 HP 0.9 TwinAir Turbo.

The Cult version of the Fiat 500 ensures high-value equipment, as demonstrated by some important content as standard: instrument panel with 7" TFT display, automatic climate control, rear parking sensors, fixed glass roof with sun blind, leather seats, leather steering wheel with Blue&MeTM controls and Dualdrive electric power steering.

Again as standard are the split (50/50) rear seat with height-adjustable head restraint, CD/MP3 radio and Blue&MeTM hands-free system with Bluetooth technology (voice recognition, steering wheel controls, digital audio file player with USB port).

The Fiat 500 Cult brooks no rivals in the field of safety either. This is demonstrated by ABS+ESD, driver and passenger airbag with dual stage system, side bags, window bags, knee bags, Isofix attachments, daytime running lights (DRL) and ESP system complete with ASR/MSR, HBA and Hill Holder.

Lastly, customers can count on an extensive collection of exclusive accessories created by Mopar®, the aftersales division responsible for Parts & Service and Customer Care activities in the EMEA region. These also include products designed especially for the new Fiat 500 Cult, such as the elegant 'chrome kit' for the exterior, comprising droplet-shaped bonnet trim, A-bar on the front bumper, door mirror covers and valve cover caps for the tyres. What's more, 'Mopar Vehicle Protection' is available for the 500 family as well. This exclusive service offer is designed to take care of the vehicle throughout its entire useful life, guaranteeing that all maintenance operations are carried out at authorised dealerships and workshops within Europe by highly qualified and specialised technicians, using original parts.

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Ferrari California T, 2015

 

 

 

 Ferrari California T, 2015

The Ferrari California T epitomises the sublime elegance, sportiness, versatility and exclusivity that have distinguished every California model since the 1950s.

It is a car brimming with innovation that will more than meet the expectations of discerning clients for whom fun behind the wheel is a priority, but who also demand a sumptuously comfortable Grand Tourer they can use every day.

The California T is a brilliant expression of Ferrari's sporty DNA, while its retractable hard top (RHT) and 2+ configuration, amongst other features, make it supremely versatile.

Like all Ferraris, the California T boasts cutting-edge technological solutions that make it absolutely unique, most notably the new turbocharged V8 engine. Turbo technology has an honourable place in Prancing Horse's engineering tradition, thanks to iconic models of the likes of the GTO of 1984 and the F40 of 1987. It is now also, of course, back at the heart of our latest F1 single-seater.

Maranello's engineers have managed to design a remarkable power unit that combines classic Ferrari engine qualities, such as razor-sharp responsiveness, blistering performance, superbly powerful acceleration at all speeds and an exhilarating soundtrack, with the advantages turbo technology, such as drastically reduced emissions and fuel consumption, a high specific power output and compact dimensions. A genuinely unprecedented achievement that sets a new benchmark for the industry.

The California T sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.6 seconds flat and from 0 to 200 km/h in 11.2 seconds. It is also more fuel efficient to the tune of approximately 15 per cent than the previous California despite punching out an extra 70 CV and 49 per cent more torque in 7th gear. Emissions have also been cut to 250 g/km on the combined cycle, the equivalent of a 20 per cent reduction in the CO2/horsepower ratio (0.44 gr/cv). As a consequence the car's range increases by 15 per cent.

All these results were achieved thanks to solutions adopted on the F1 single-seaters, including a low-inertia, flat-plane crankshaft combined with innovative twin-scroll turbines to minimise throttle response times. Certain of the manufacturing phases, mostly regarding castings, also make use of the same plant and production processes employed by the Scuderia.

Thanks to meticulous design and sophisticated production techniques adopted for essential components, such as the flat-plane crankshaft and the three-piece cast exhaust manifold and turbo housing, the California T's engine produces an enthrallingly powerful sound that becomes even more impressive as revs increase.

The new model also boasts true sports car dynamics, thanks to lower steering wheel activity and quicker steering courtesy of a new steering box and new suspension set-up. New springs and latest-generation Magnaride dampers (now more than 50 per cent faster), combined with body motion accelerometers, reduce roll and pitch to deliver more precise handling whilst still guaranteeing an incredibly comfortable ride.

The car's electronic systems are also the state-of-the-art in the sector with the latest evolution of the F1-Trac and the ESP 8.0 Premium, both of which help make the car even more responsive, underscoring its nimble sports car dynamics.

The combination of the California T's uncompromising architecture, dynamic controls and new engine guarantees consistent fun behind the wheel both in challenging and more relaxed driving conditions, in perfect Grand Tourer style.

Meticulous and in-depth design work has retained the dimensions of the previous model yet endowed the California T with a whole new personality. The car's proportions were penned by the Ferrari Styling Centre in collaboration with Pininfarina, and are very much in line with Ferrari's front-engined ethos.

The California T's cabin exudes a sense of warmth and craftsmanship, and was designed to be as ergonomic as possible, with luxurious semi-aniline leather trim. The space on-board is flexible too, and owners can make the most efficient use of its generous boot capacity even with the top down, thanks to the communication between the luggage compartment and rear seats.

The Human-Machine Interface encompasses the Ferrari steering wheel with integrated controls while the Turbo Performance Engineer (TPE) takes pride of place between the two air vents at the centre of dash. This is a sophisticated instrument with a touch-sensitive scroll surround and a digital display that provides indications on making the most efficient use of the new engine's performance. The California T also has a new infotainment system with a large, extremely intuitive 6.5" display and a choice of both button and touch-screen controls.

The Engine
Every Ferrari engine is the product of the incredible well of cutting-edge technological know-how that makes all Maranello's cars unlike any others.

Responsive commands, instant throttle response, exceptional performance combined with high revs, a torque curve that increases constantly across the rev range and an exhilarating signature soundtrack are all very much part of the spec of every Ferrari engine. However, the new V8 enhances these characteristics and combines them with the superb fuel efficiency, high specific power output and extreme compactness afforded by turbocharging.

In developing the new power unit, Ferrari's engineers approached the project with a new take on turbo technology that overcame traditional constraints, such as turbo lag, low maximum revs and a less than thrilling sound. In fact, they have not only retained but actually underscored these Ferrari characteristics in this new engine.

The resources Ferrari poured into the design and development of a V8 turbo that would set a new benchmark for the industry have produced a completely new power unit that is absolutely unique, thanks to a singular mix of in-house design expertise, the use of advanced design and simulation software, sophisticated production systems shared with the Scuderia racing team, and a development programme that ran for over four years.

The new direct-injection 3855 cc V8 turbo punches out a maximum of 560 CV, yielding a specific power output of 145 CV/l, the highest in its category, in addition to maximum torque of 755 Nm in 7th gear. Throttle response is razor sharp and the engine boasts an exceptionally broad power band that goes all the way up to 7500 rpm.

Numerous sophisticated technologies have been adopted to deliver these extraordinary performance figures, not least:

•     twin-scroll turbochargers that ensure more rapid spool up, with a design that optimizes the exhaust gas pulsation from the cylinders into the turbine, allowing equally-spaced pressure peaks for each turbine scroll, thus reducing turbo-lag;
•     compact turbines which thus have a lower moment of inertia to minimise response times;
•     the classic Ferrari flat-plane crankshaft which, even with the turbochargers, provides even firing between the two cylinder banks as well as lower rotating mass and inertia.
•     "high-tumble" intake manifolds to maximise combustion efficiency;
•     ion-sensing system with adaptive ignition and multi-spark functionality which optimise combustion both under high and partial loads across the engine's rev range;
•     lubrication system with a variable-displacement oil pump that supplies oil at either high pressure or low pressure, reducing the hydraulic power requirements by up to 30 per cent compared to a conventional pump;
•     cylinder heads with roller finger followers to reduce the power absorbed by the valvetrain by 10 per cent at low revs;
•     exhaust headers with equal-length pipes to optimise pulsations and equalise the exhaust sound.

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Dodge Challenger 100th Anniversary Edition, 2014

 

 

Dodge Challenger 100th Anniversary Edition, 2014

There is no vehicle more iconic than the head-turning Challenger, which serves as the perfect foundation to celebrate 100 years of Dodge style and performance. Based on the 2014 Dodge Challenger SXT Plus and R/T Plus models, the new 100th Anniversary Edition pays tribute to the brand's history in contemporary Dodge style.

Similar to the Charger, the Dodge Challenger 100th Anniversary Edition includes all-new 20 x 8-inch polished five-spoke aluminum wheels with Granite Crystal pockets and matching Granite Crystal grille surround with script "Challenger" badge. To provide contrast, Pitch Black, Bright White, Billet Silver, Granite Crystal, Ivory Tri-Coat, Phantom Black Tri-Coat, Header Orange and an exclusive High Octane Red pearl coat paint are available. For added detail, commemorative bar style "Dodge Est. 1914" front-fender badges and Dodge '100' wheel center caps mark this special edition.

The interior has all-new and exclusive Molten Red or Foundry Black heated Nappa leather sport seats featuring a custom 'cloud overprint.' Brass colored accent stitching and die-cast "Dodge Est. 1914" circular badges provide the 2014 Dodge Challenger 100th Anniversary Editions with an exclusive, high-end appearance that also draws inspiration from the machinist heritage of John and Horace Dodge. Adding contrast to armrests trimmed in matching Molten Red or Foundry Black premium leather are Liquid Graphite center console bezels, steering wheel accents and door handle pulls.

Interior appointments designed to commemorate the brand's centenary include die-cast "Dodge Est. 1914" circular badges on front seatbacks and an embroidered anniversary logo on premium floor mats. For a touch of style, new bright white gauge faces feature a surprising detail element as the "100" mph indication is marked appropriately in red. Adding even more detail is the Uconnect system's startup image, evoking the industrious nature of Detroit. Finishing out the interior is a seven speaker Boston Acoustics audio system with 368-watt amplifier, along with Mopar "Challenger" sill plates and bright pedals.

Performance and Challenger are synonymous. The Dodge Challenger 100th Anniversary Edition based on the 2014 Dodge Challenger SXT Plus model features a 305 horsepower 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine, delivering up to 27 mpg on the highway. Available with a six-speed manual or five-speed automatic, the Dodge Challenger 100th Anniversary Edition based on the 2014 Dodge Challenger R/T Plus offers up to 375 horsepower, 25 mpg highway and 0-60 mph under 6 seconds. Both V-6 and V-8 models include sport mode calibration, performance-tuned suspension and three-spoke flat-bottom performance steering-wheel.

Completing this special model are two unique key fobs, which include a 100th Anniversary Edition jeweled logo on the back side, a customized owner's kit and a special commemorative book celebrating the 100 years of Dodge heritage.

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Citroen C4 Picasso, 2014

 

 

 Citroen C4 Picasso, 2014

The new Citroen C4 Picasso is first and foremost a car of astonishing design. It takes advantage of the possibilities offered by the EMP2 platform to explore new forms of stylistic expression: reduced overhang (-70 mm at the front), a lower engine block and floor (between -40 mm and -50 mm for the engine, and -20 mm for the floor), and wider tracks (+82 mm at the front and +31 mm at the rear). The dynamic effect created is both forceful and intense.

The first action of designer Fréderic Soubirou was to create the side signature, a C shape in chrome that gives the side view of the new Citroen C4 Picasso its personality, while underlining the space available to passengers at front and rear. The side view with its sculpted panels conveys an impression of smooth power.

The front end marks a renewal in Citroen styling, with a more assertive engine compartment and a new look for the chevrons, reaching out to touch the spectacular high-tech lights. Slim LED daytime-running lights extend the line of the radiator grille, sitting just on top of the slender headlamps. Fog lamps add the finishing touch to this original light signature.

The rear LED lights, inspired by the Tubik, Survolt and Revolte concept cars, feature a profound, futuristic 3D effect. A new enveloping tailgate suggesting roominess and strength adds a dynamic touch to the rear view. When opened, the tailgate provides easy and generous boot access.

A loft-style interior
The new Citroen C4 Picasso features an uncluttered loft-style interior ambience. An impression reinforced by the panoramic windscreen, a standard feature, and the large glass roof that bathe the car in natural light. As in the previous-generation vehicle, the cabin features an exceptionally large glazed area (5.30 m2).

Travelling becomes a relaxing experience, with the exclusive Lounge Pack, comprising front massage seats, a "Relax" seat enabling the front passenger to stretch out his or her legs, and a Relax headrest on all seats for optimum neck support. The Citroen C4 Picasso applies business-class travel standards for all the passengers!

The loft-style design of the new Citroen C4 Picasso is also visible in the quality of the materials and the attention to detail. This vehicle is on a par with the best for perceived quality.

The dashboard, of asymmetric design, combines several colours and materials. The driver's side is primarily black, a colour with high-tech connotations, echoing the paler shade on the passenger side (Ardoise or Champagne depending on the colours selected) with a sparkle-effect finish. Satin-finish chrome and glossy black inserts enhance the overall effect. At the same time, particular attention was given to the door panels: the crossbar features an original pattern obtained by laser engraving. Sophistication and careful thought clearly went into every detail.

The seat design features a graphic effect that gives the two front seats the appearance of a one-piece bench. The new Citroen C4 Picasso is available with light-coloured Nappa leather inspired by the world of interior design, with the emphasis on elegance and comfort.

A full digital, full touch driving interface
The new Citroen C4 Picasso ships with a full digital driving interface that is both intuitive and attractive. The uncluttered dashboard is structured around two screens located in the central section: a 7" touchpad and a 12" panoramic HD screen.

The standard 7" touchpad, with its seven touch-sensitive buttons, controls all the in-car functions: dual-zone air conditioning, navigation, audio, telephone, driving aids, connected services, etc. All within a finger's reach!

The spectacular 12" panoramic HD screen displays essential driving information and can be configured by the driver at any time to show data for either the navigation system or driving aids. Drivers can even display a personal photo as a screen backdrop using an USB key. The car becomes a real home from home.

And to stay connected at all times, the new Citroen C4 Picasso provides access to Citroen Multicity Connect, a portal of connected applications, controlled from the 7" touchpad. Specially tailored for automotive use, the portal comprises a wide range of applications to make life easier for both the driver and passengers: the nearest service station, a hotel or restaurant, a weather update or information on high-risk traffic areas.

Easy, relaxed driving
Looking beyond useful everyday functions such as hands-free access and start-up, a motorised tailgate and reversing camera, the new Citroen C4 Picasso ships with a range of innovations for easy, relaxed driving, such as:

•     360 Vision, an exclusive feature on this segment. Using the four cameras placed around the car, the driver can select a bird's eye view, a rear view alone, or a panoramic front view, useful for getting out of a garage! This system provides a complete view of the car's immediate environment, an extended field of vision that makes for easier manoeuvres.
•     Park Assis: this function helps drivers looking for a parking space. It provides automatic assistance when manoeuvring into a space, whether parking in reverse or at an angle. All the driver has to do is to manage acceleration and braking. A valuable aid in the urban jungle!

Technologies serving safety
The new Citroen C4 Picasso is packed with technologies to anticipate events and to provide assistance as part of a safe and relaxed driving experience:

•     An active cruise control function: a radar sensor in the front bumper maintains a constant distance with the vehicle in front by detecting any slowdown in speed and warning the driver. The system acts on the accelerator and engine brake to reduce or increase speed within a limit of 25 kph. When the road is clear, the car automatically returns to the set speed.
•     The active driver and passenger front seatbelts are equipped with motors that pull the belt tight automatically in the event of danger for maximum protection. At the same time, in relation with the video LDWS, the belt vibrates to warn the driver if the car crosses a line.
•     An image processing function for the miniature camera built into the interior door mirror, to manage automatic high beam operation, i.e. automatically activating and deactivating high beam lights depending on lighting and traffic conditions. This function is also used by the new-generation more predictive lane departure warning system (video LDWS).
•     The ultrasonic blind spot monitoring system: an orange light in the angle of the door mirror warns drivers if a vehicle is present in their blind spot. Relying on four sensors in the front and rear bumpers, this system is active between 12 and 140 kph. It controls the area up to the exterior door mirror at the front, extending to around 5m behind the rear bumper and 3.5m on either side.
•     Citroen eTouch, a service comprising, among other functions, a localised emergency call and assistance system (depending on the country), two free 24/7 services relying on a built-in SIM card, which ensure that the vehicle can be located promptly and assistance sent out in the event of an incident or accident.

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