William Maley

William Maley Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com April 24, 2012 With the Lamborghini Urus making its debut at this week's Beijing Motor Show, a question has popped upped about another one of Lamborghini's concepts; what ever happened to the Estoque concept? The Estoque sedan concept was shown at the 2008 Paris Motor Show as a way to preview a new model line for the brand. Since then, nothing much has happened. Autoweek had the chance to sit down with CEO Stefan Winkelmann and asked him about the Estoque. "It [the Estoque] was placed on hold because of a number of reasons, including the lack of a suitable platform. We haven't given up on the idea of a sedan entirely, but we see more potential in a sport-utility vehicle encapsulating typical Lamborghini attributes." Source: Autoweek View full article

William Maley Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com April 24, 2012 Audi is extending their e-tron technology to a luxury sedan. At the Beijing Motor Show, Audi introduced the A6 L e-tron concept. Based on the A6 platform, the A6 L e-tron is on a longer wheelbase. Power comes from a 2.0L TFSI engine making 211 HP and is combined with a 95 HP electric motor that is powered by a liquid-cooled lithium-ion battery. The A6 L e-tron can operate in fully-electric, hybrid or gasoline mode as needed. Audi says the A6 L e-tron concept is technically an concept at the moment, but did admit that it could indicate what an A6 e-tron could look like. Press Release is on Page 2 Audi A6 L e-tron concept Audi is presenting its first luxury-class e-tron concept car – a technology study known as the Audi A6 L e-tron concept at Auto China 2012 in Beijing. The plug-in hybrid has a powerful drive system that enables a driving range of 80 km (49.71 miles) on pure electric power, and it was specifically designed to fulfill Chinese needs. The A6 L e-tron concept is an important step towards future electric mobility in China for Audi. With its first e-tron technology study in the luxury class, the company is showing what a locally produced New Energy Vehicle from Audi might look like. The basis for this study is the new A6 L, the most successful premium automobile and Audi's bestselling model in China. Audi produces this business sedan at the Changchun plant in a joint venture with FAW. The A6 L e-tron concept is precisely tailored to the requirements of Chinese customers. Plug-in hybrids that can travel long distances electrically – thereby enabling zero emissions driving in local areas – are ideal for use in rapidly growing megacities. Beyond its drive system, the A6 L e-tron concept has all of the qualities that customers value in Audi cars: prestige, comfort and sporty performance. Parallel hybrid system: intelligently combined TFSI and electric motor The technology study is a parallel hybrid. It brings together a 2.0 TFSI that outputs 155 kW (211 hp) and an electric motor with 70 kW (95 hp) peak power. The liquid-cooled lithium-ion battery is located in a collision-protected space at the rear of the vehicle. In electric mode, the Audi A6 L e-tron concept can travel up to 80 km (49.71 miles) at a constant speed of 60 km/h (37.28 mph). At any given moment, the hybrid control module chooses the best suited operating mode with the focus on driving range. This technology platform can be operated with only the internal combustion engine, only the electric drive, or in hybrid mode. In addition, it can recover energy during deceleration, or it can boost output power for strong acceleration by combining the two drives. The Audi A6 L e-tron concept delivers sporty performance. Setting a course for the future: Audi's e-tron strategy The rapid advance in urbanization and the associated need to reduce CO2 emissions are a key determining factor for new drive technologies. Audi views electric mobility as a key future technology and is working on highly efficient solutions that simultaneously offer the customer a typical Audi driving experience. Audi has already launched electrified drive systems in volume production with full hybrid models that have highly advanced lithium-ion technology. The Q5 hybrid quattro, A6 hybrid and A8 hybrid can drive up to three kilometers (1.86 miles) on electric power. In combined mode, which uses the internal combustion engine and electric motor, customers experience sporty driving performance and significantly better fuel economy. The next step is to implement drive systems in which electric driving is the primary focus. The term Audi e-tron refers to technologies ranging from PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) to range extenders and finally vehicles powered purely by electric batteries or fuel cells. In its first Audi e-tron concept car, Audi already showed how this future might look. And in the case of the R8 e-tron, this vision will be realized in a short production run later this year. Audi is using A1 e-tron and A3 e-tron test vehicles to acquire important customer feedback, which can be incorporated in later production cars. The first product will be the A3 e-tron in 2014. It will be followed by other New Energy Vehicles. In this way, e-tron will become established as a further attractive drive technology option alongside TDI and TFSI. Elegant: the styling The Audi A6 L e-tron concept is notable for its elegant styling. The sedan, which has a 3.01 meter (9.88 feet) wheelbase, is 5.02 meters (16.47 feet) long and 1.87 meters (6.14 feet) wide, but only 1.46 meters (4.79 feet) tall. Its long engine hood, its low, extended roof line and the sharp lines on its sides create an athletic overall look. Characteristic Audi LED headlights emphasize the car's determined expression. The car's exterior styling shows its differences from the production car. At the front, the single-frame grille with its slender cross-bars and the nearly covered air intakes attract the eye – both features are typical of all e-tron models. Powerful 21-inch wheels in e-tron design and the special rear diffuser highlight the car's progressive character. On the body, signatures identify the prototype's technology, while under the engine hood a styling capsule covers engine components. A ribbed contour at its center symbolizes the hybrid drive. Lightweight and strong with Audi ultra: the body The body of the A6 L e-tron concept is identical to that of the Audi A6 L. It is lightweight, rigid and safe to a maximum degree, due to application of the ultra lightweight principle. Consisting of approximately ten percent aluminum, it weighs about 15 percent less than a comparable all-steel design. Aluminum components in the load-bearing structure and exterior skin, as well as the high-tech steels used in the occupant cell, make the body significantly lighter. Each new future Audi model will be lighter in weight than the previous model. This makes the brand a frontrunner in reversing the upward weight spiral. In designing car bodies, developers will intelligently use new combinations of materials, including carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP). For Audi, ultra lightweight construction does not solely focus on one material, rather it seeks a flexible approach that utilizes a wide variety of materials – but with one goal: to attain the best performance with the least material usage at the best places. Furthermore, advanced materials and construction methods achieve an extremely low sound level in the interior of the Audi A6 L e-tron concept. Excellent vibration comfort is attained by fine-tuning components and by hydraulically damping axle and drive mounts. Comfortable and sporty: the chassis Audi's ultra lightweight construction competence is also found in the chassis, which combines a high level of comfort with sporty handling. The links are made of aluminum. The power steering, like the brake booster and the air conditioning compressor, utilizes an electromechanical drive. At the limits of performance in driving through curves, the electronic transverse differential lock – a function of electronic stabilization control (ESC) – stabilizes the Audi A6 L e-tron concept by making small interventions at the front wheel on the outside of the curve. Luxurious: interior and features As in the Audi A6 L before it, the interior of the technology platform continues the elegant styling of its exterior design. Its defining element is an arc under the windshield – the wrap-around – that surrounds the driver and front passenger. The front of the instrument panel is designed in the form of a flowing wave. All of the interior details illustrate the aesthetic standard with which Audi builds its vehicles. All materials have been carefully selected and meticulously worked into the design. The controls are intuitive. The powermeter replaces the tachometer; its pointer indicates total drive system power on a scale of zero to 100 percent. Colored segments indicate the current operating state of the A6 L e-tron concept; an auxiliary instrument visualizes the charge state of the lithium-ion battery. Meanwhile, the energy flow indicator tells the driver the current operating mode and which hybrid drive components are currently active. It can be called up from the driver information system or MMI monitor. The large screen shows a bar diagram of average fuel economy and indicates the amount of recovered energy over five-minute intervals. The Audi A6 L e-tron concept offers a lot of space at all seating positions. It integrates all of the model line's luxury-class features. The seats offer ventilation and massage functions, the Bose surround system delivers good sound, and the deluxe automatic air conditioning system with air ionizer ensures a pleasant climate in the car. Ambient lighting adds subtle highlights to the interior illumination. The driver assistance and safety systems also satisfy the highest standards. Audi active lane assist supports the driver in lane-keeping, while Audi side assist helps to change lanes. When it is dark, the night vision assistant highlights detected pedestrians even at a distance; the parking assistant helps in parking. The Audi pre sense system can reduce the severity of accidents and their consequences in many cases. The car's features also include MMI navigation plus. Many functions of the large hard-drive navigation system can be controlled by touchpad character input; the touch-sensitive pad, MMI touch, recognizes 29,000 Chinese characters. A team of engineers developed these functions at the Audi Infotainment Tech Center (ITC) in Beijing, where infotainment components from Germany are adapted to suit the wishes of Chinese customers. View full article

William Maley Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com April 23, 2012 Bentley brought along its polarizing EXP 9 F SUV concept to the Beijing Motor Show this week. Before you ask the answer is no, the EXP 9 F is still the same as we last saw it at Geneva. However, the automaker has revealed the powertrains that will be in the EXP 9 F. The engines being talked about are 4.0L twin-turbo V8 producing 500 HP and a twin-turbo W12 producing somewhere in the range of 600 HP. Both engines would likely mate to Bentley’s eight-speed automatic transmission and an all-wheel drive system. The third powertrain is a plug-in hybrid that would be based around a V6 engine. Bentley predicts an electric range of at least 19 Miles and a 0 to 62-mph time under five seconds for the plug-in variant. Bentley is currently saying that these powertrains are under consideration, but we wouldn't be surprised if they all are approved. Press Release is on Page 2 BENTLEY REVEALS POWERTRAIN DETAILS FOR EXP 9 F LUXURY SUV CONCEPT AT 2012 BEIJING INTERNATIONAL AUTOMOTIVE EXHIBITION EXP 9 F all-wheel drive luxury Sport Utility Vehicle concept makes debut in China as potential third Bentley model-line Bold reinterpretation of Bentley design cues in a spacious, versatile and high performance SUV A range of advanced powertrains under consideration include 500bhp, 4.0 litre V8 Twin turbo, a V6 plug-in hybrid, in addition to the flagship 6.0 litre W12 engine. An innovative fusion of contemporary, crafted luxury, advanced in-car technology, commanding driving position and all-terrain capability. (Beijing, 23 April 2012) Bentley is offering a vision of the future with a dramatic new Sport Utility Vehicle concept, EXP 9 F, at the 2012 Beijing International Automotive Exhibition. The Company’s designers and engineers have created a compelling new take on the Grand Touring Bentley – a vehicle that feels equally at home at an opera gala performance, on the sand dunes and the overtaking lane of the autobahn. Unmistakably a Bentley – yet a Bentley like none before it – the EXP 9 F could herald a third Bentley model-line alongside the bespoke Mulsanne and the high performance Continental GT, GTC and Flying Spur. Today a global luxury brand with a network of 160 dealers from Shanghai to Beverly Hills, Bentley has an increasingly diverse customer base spanning every continent. For many customers, a dramatically styled, Bentley all-wheel drive SUV which combines a spacious, versatile cabin and commanding driving position, with Bentley’s hallmark power, performance, advanced technology and hand crafted luxury, would be a natural choice both on and off-road. The new pinnacle-luxury Bentley would offer exhilarating performance, setting new benchmarks for the SUV sector. The EXP 9 F concept on display in Beijing is based around the Bentley 6.0 litre, twin-turbocharged W12 petrol engine, developing 600bhp and 800 Nm of torque coupled with an 8-speed close-ratio transmission. A range of other powertrain options are also under consideration. This includes Bentley’s recently launched 500bhp, 4.0 litre petrol V8 as well as a groundbreaking powertrain for the luxury SUV segment – a V6 plug-in hybrid. With a potential 30km range in full electric mode and CO2 emissions of 130g/km, the V6 hybrid would still be capable of a 0 to 100km/h sprint time of less than 5 seconds. “We are very excited by the potential of a high performance, ultra-luxury Bentley SUV. Since we first showed EXP 9 F at Geneva, the response has been overwhelming. Everyone seems to agree that an SUV is a natural fit for Bentley. An exciting range of drivetrain options including a hybrid V6 are under active consideration but one thing is for sure, any Bentley SUV would offer the thunderous performance for which the marque is renowned.” Wolfgang Dürheimer, Chairman and Chief Executive, Bentley Motors. BOLD, DYNAMIC, SPORTY DESIGN Key Bentley styling cues re-interpreted for EXP 9 F with innovative detailing Sculptured flowing surfaces emphasise power, muscularity and robustness From a designer’s perspective, EXP 9 F was a dream project, the chance to create a completely new type of Bentley. From the very beginning, the design team had a clear vision for the new Bentley SUV, as Dirk van Braeckel, Director of Design, explains: “EXP 9 F had to represent the absolute pinnacle of the sport utility sector, setting a new benchmark for this type of vehicle. The style had to reflect Bentley’s sporting character despite its radically different package and purpose together with sculptured, flowing surfaces in keeping with the Bentley tradition.” A new class of Bentley allowed the styling team to adopt a more progressive design approach. The exterior is a bold, dynamic statement, combining clean, muscular surfaces with signature character lines, while retaining the qualities of luxury and power – a pure Bentley. Key Bentley cues such as the matrix grille, round lamps and the strong power-line and haunch along each flank are reinterpreted for EXP 9 F. The ‘hewn from solid’ design language and innovative detailing, emphasise the robust character of this high-luxury SUV. The designers were inspired not only by the more functional nature of EXP 9 F but by the ‘visible engineering’ of the famous Blower Bentleys. For example, the day-time running lamp apertures also act as the charge cooler air intakes for the twin-turbo W12 engine, each with a dramatic, mesh-covered turbine fan design and ‘rifled’ inner surface finish. The turbine theme continues with the stunning 23-inch alloy wheels, the design of which complements the sculptured coachwork. The multiple spokes are reminiscent of the shape of turbine fan blades while the centrally mounted wheel nut is a visual reference both to Bentley’s Le Mans racers of the 1920s with centre-lock spinner and to the single nut found on the modern-day Speed 8’s high-tech racing alloys. At the rear, the swooping lines of the tailgate avoid utilitarian overtones in favour of a distinctly sporting profile, while the ultra-wide, two-part split tailgate offers a high level of versatility when grand touring. The bold design language of EXP 9 F is complemented by twin exhaust tailpipes with ‘rifled’ inner surfaces, their elliptical shapes echoing those of the rear light clusters. The rear lights are inspired by the forms and details of fighter jet engines, uniquely designed so that they glow from within, spreading their light outwards. INTERIOR – A FUSION OF INNOVATION, LUXURY AND UTILITY Light, airy, contemporary cabin design with exquisite British ‘sporting’ luxury craft detailing Contemporary use of touchscreen and tailored interface technologies Fresh interpretation of traditional handcrafted materials with highly durable surfaces High degree of practicality including versatile rear cabin layout and full-width, two-piece tailgate Bentley is renowned for its fusion of extremes – technology and craftsmanship, luxury and performance – and the interior of EXP 9 F expresses the resolution of apparent opposites in its use of materials, techniques and technology, as Dirk van Braeckel explains: “The challenge for the interior design team was to create a cabin which provides a blend of luxury and utility. The result is a light and airy environment with a commanding view of the road and a versatile layout which showcases Bentley’s craft and design language in an innovative and contemporary way.” Traditional handcrafted elements such as wood, leather and polished metals such as aluminium, bronze and gunmetal are used to create a sense of British luxury, yet the way they are used sets a fresh and contemporary interior ambience. Soft-touch leather contrasts with highly durable surfaces with the concept car design experimenting with the use of saddle leather for the seat backs, top roll and loadspace – while analogue bezels and dials are paired with TFT ‘virtual’ instrumentation. Even the luxurious silk wool floormats are reversible – with one side finished in durable, ribbed saddle leather for use when the driver and passengers are dressed for the great outdoors. The upright dashboard design features a full-width, one-piece wood veneer with a subtly negative surface and instruments with a configurable display. The fluid waist rail design shows pinnacle craftsmanship with chequered, lacquered and oiled finishes. Veneers are sculpted to reveal their solid wood construction. The highly distinctive, carved checkering design on the steering wheel rim, inspired by a shot-gun’s stock, also offers additional grip. Traditional Bentley ‘bulls eye’ vents have a ‘rifled’ gunmetal inner surface for a more contemporary and functional appearance. The centre console is a blend of functionality and supreme ergonomics with dynamic, architectural layers which help to create a central spine to the cabin. The frame of the console is also a structural component with integrated, sculpted grab handles. The high-gloss black touch-screen surround seamlessly blends into a lacquered veneered surface, emulating the decorative surfaces of a Stratocaster guitar. The flowing roof design with a panoramic glass panel is inspired by the roll cages of rally cars, expressing both strength and lightness. The innovative, four-zone electro-chromatic ‘sunroof’ allows individual passengers to select their preferred level of light screening Rear seat passengers can chose between business mode, with generous legroom complete with fold-down keyboard and full internet connectivity via an iPad or tablet or a more reclined position with powered footrest, drinks table and an infotainment screen for movies. A removable Touch Pad located on the centre console manages the rear cabin climate control system and entertainment functions. When the rear seats are not in use, they can be powered forward to create a larger loadspace for sports equipment or luggage. The EXP 9 F seating is 4+1, with a rear armrest sitting between the two electrically operated ‘Captain’s chairs’. Seats feature a diamond-quilted ‘shoulder line’ in soft-touch leather, echoing the traditional appearance of a British field sport jacket. A sliding drawer between the seats reveals a cooled compartment for champagne and glasses. Micro leather piping accentuates the lines of the dashboard, centre console and seats and is colour-matched to the coachwork. At the rear, the lower section of the two-piece tailgate may be used as a viewing bench or picnic table with the upper section providing a canopy to provide protection against the elements. Bespoke picnic hampers are stowed neatly to either side of the load space when not in use, but are located on rails for easy access. An awning extends over the tailgate to protect those seated there; two umbrellas fit into stowage compartments in the rear luggage area for when the rain clouds sweep in. These compartments are heated for rapid drying of wet umbrellas. COMMANDING DRIVING POSITION AND CONTROL ARCHITECTURE Inspired blend of traditional analogue and TFT touchscreen technology Bespoke interface engineering – tailored to the individual with driver-selectable instrumentation modes As befits a Bentley, the EXP 9 F design concept features a near-infinite choice of driver information and entertainment options. However the design and electrical engineering teams sought to avoid creating a cluttered or confusing driver and passenger environment, presenting only the information that each user needs, when they need it. As a result, EXP 9 F places key driver information such as 3D navigation in a central TFT panel directly in the driver’s line of sight, where it is flanked by two analogue reverse-read dials. Meanwhile, controls that are shared between driver and front seat passenger, such as cabin temperature, air vents and entertainment, are presented in the central touchscreen and console. The TFT screen deploys from the full-width metal trim to provide a fully integrated extension to the glass surface of the centre console. Three different driving modes – Comfort, Sport and Off-Road – are selectable according to the road environment and type of journey. Thus the driver information TFT panel would be able to switch between satellite navigation on the motorway to a ‘sump cam’ when negotiating a bumpy track. For sand-dune driving, the speedometer is automatically replaced by a compass while, for high altitude driving, the rev counter is replaced by an altimeter. EVALUATION, REFINEMENT AND FUTURE PLANNING When the first generation Continental GT was unveiled in 2003 it represented the renaissance of Bentley as a global luxury icon, subsequent launches such as Mulsanne, Continental Flying Spur saloon and the new Continental GT have seen the Bentley brand growing from strength to strength. EXP 9 F represents the chance to take Bentley values of design, craftsmanship and engineering excellence into what would be – literally – new terrain for the brand. Bentley’s experience with the all-wheel drive Continental range makes the concept of a Bentley SUV a natural progression for the company. Customer and public reaction will be analysed following the unveiling of EXP 9 F at Geneva 2012, with the aim of refining the concept further. Above all, Bentley will be listening carefully to the reaction of customers and potential customers throughout the world, prior to making any definitive commitment to production. “A Bentley Grand Tourer doesn’t necessarily have to be a coupé, a convertible or a saloon – it could equally well be an SUV. What’s important is that it should be true to Bentley’s brand values and in line with the desires and needs of our customers.” – Alasdair Stewart, Member of the Board, Sales and Marketing. View full article

Man, I seem to be on a roll today with grammar Its been fixed

I gave it a quick fix

William Maley Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com April 23, 2012 At the Geneva Motor Show in March, Mini showed off a cargo van concept based on their Clubman called the Clubvan. The Clubvan drops the back seats and windows, and in their place comes in a flat load floor, steel grill to separate cargo and the front seats, and other items you expect in a cargo van. Car & Driver has learned that the Clubvan will go into production and come to the U.S. later this year as a 2013 model. The production model will come with a stainless-steel grille separating the passenger and cargo area, an aluminum cargo rail in the rear hold, six tie-down hooks, a cloth-trimmed load floor with a matching roof liner, and an integrated power socket in the cargo area. Mini says the Clubvan will offer increased load capacity compared with the Clubman, but didn’t give out a number. As for engines, Mini isn’t saying if the Clubman’s 121 HP naturally aspirated four, or if the Clubman S’s 181 HP turbocharged engine will be available. Source: Car & Driver View full article

William Maley Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com April 23, 2012 Starting with the new 2013 Altima, Nissan will be launching five all-new products in the U.S. over the next 15 months. Product #3 is the all new Sentra which will be released later this year. Nissan released a teaser picture and video of the new Sentra today. What we can see on the picture and video is the new Sentra will share a lot in common with the new Altima. The front will get Nissan's new grill seen on the Altima and Versa, new fog lights, and LED-accented headlights. The back end sees a new more prominent deck lid and LED-accented taillights. Press Release is on Page 2 Nissan North America Product Blitz Continues With All-New Sentra Sedan Coming Later This Year On the heels of the Beijing Motor Show, at which Nissan Motor Company unveiled an all-new global sedan, Nissan North America (NNA) announced that this new model will be the basis for an all-new 2013 Nissan Sentra. In conjunction with the announcement, Nissan released teaser video clips and images of the North American market's uniquely styled 2013 Sentra SR. The all-new Sentra will be unveiled in the United States later this summer and go on sale in the fall. "Sentra is the third of five all-new core models we'll be introducing in a 15-month product onslaught," said Brian Carolin, senior vice president, Sales and Marketing, NNA. "The all-new Altima goes on sale this summer and will be followed closely by the all-new Pathfinder and Sentra. And when the next two new models launch in 2013, we will have refreshed 75 percent of our volume, rewarding our loyal owners and attracting new customers into Nissan showrooms." The all-new 2013 Sentra will be launched as the nameplate celebrates its 30th anniversary in the U.S., promising to bring a new level of refinement and innovation to the segment. Nissan will unveil the Sentra and release more details about it this summer View full article

William Maley Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com April 23, 2012 Jaguar is joining Audi, BMW, and other luxury automakers in offering smaller forced-induction engines. At the Beijing Motor Show today, Jaguar announced a new supercharged V6 and a turbocharged four-cylinder engine. The supercharged V6 is a 3.0L producing either 340 or 380 HP, depending on the configuration. The all-aluminum V6 is derived from Jaguar's 5.0L V8 and features quad cams, direct injection and a Roots-type twin vortex supercharger with a water-cooled intercooler. Jaguar says in their press release the 380 HP version will lie under the hood of a high-output variant of their new F-Type roadster when it next year. As for the turbocharged four-cylinder engine, that will be the 2.0L 240 HP engine from the Range Rover Evoque. Jaguar isn't saying what vehicles will get the 2.0L turbo at the moment. Press Release is on Page 2 JAGUAR ANNOUNCES FUTURE POWERTRAINS AT-A-GLANCE Jaguar will bring to market globally two new forced-induction engines; a Supercharged 3.0L V6, and a Turbocharged 2.0L in-line four cylinder These engines will be offered as choices on a number of Jaguar models in the future The Supercharged 3.0L V6 draws on key technology used in the Jaguar 5-liter V8. This engine will be available in two states of tune: 380hp and 340hp The Turbocharged 2.0L I-4 produces 240hp The 380hp version of the Supercharged 3.0L V6 will be exclusively offered as one of the powerplants in the forthcoming Jaguar F-TYPE roadster Both engines will deliver their power through eight-speed automatic transmissions The V6 will be available with Jaguar’s Intelligent Stop-Start system Introduction As Jaguar expands its product offerings in key global markets, it is introducing two additional engines; a new Supercharged 3.0-liter V6, and a Turbocharged 2.0-liter I4, which will be offered as choices on a number of models. The first announced utilization of the 380hp Supercharged 3.0L V6 will be the all-new Jaguar F-TYPE two seat roadster, coming in 2013. The Jaguar F-TYPE will focus uncompromisingly on delivering a rewarding drive experience Adrian Hallmark, Global Brand Director, Jaguar Cars, said, "Jaguar currently has its strongest range of products for several decades. Our continued growth is dependent on two things; activating the awareness of the brand, and expanding our range to enable us to access new customers in both existing and emerging markets. The introduction of these two additional forced-induction engines is integral to this ambitious plan." The new V6 engine has been developed by Jaguar from its existing 5-liter V8. This all aluminum alloy engine has received accolades from around the world in applications from luxury sedans to 186MPH convertibles. The V6 uses many key technologies from the V8 engine including direct injection, variable valve timing and aluminum construction. It will offer comparable levels of power and refinement to the naturally-aspirated version of the V8 engine, but with greater specific output and efficiency courtesy of supercharging. The Turbocharged 2.0-liter I4 engine uses a range of technologies for power generation that belies its size. It produces 240hp thanks to the use of three key innovations; low-inertia turbocharging, direct fuel-injection and variable timing of both the intake and exhaust camshafts. Ron Lee, Group Chief Engineer Powertrain, Jaguar Cars, said: "Both these new engines make intelligent use of forced-induction technology to produce high-specific output in an efficient way, while delivering the compelling combination of flexibility, refinement and driver reward that are integral attributes in all Jaguar engines." Both engines will be mated to a new eight-speed automatic gearbox which offers a broad spread of ratios for an optimally balanced combination of performance, economy, and driver control. The 3.0 V6 S/C will also be available with Jaguar's Intelligent Stop-Start system. Details: Supercharged 3.0-liter V6 This new engine finds it's bloodline from the current Jaguar V8 engine. The all-aluminum architecture of the V8 forms the basis of Jaguar’s new supercharged V6. The engine will be presented in two states of tune depending on its application; the 380hp version and a 340hp version. The new quad-cam V6 shares its all-aluminum construction with the V8, with the lightweight die-cast block supplemented with cross-bolted main bearing caps to increase rigidity and therefore refinement. The valves themselves are subject to control by a dual independent variable cam timing (DIVCT) system which is activated by the positive and negative torques generated by the movement of the intake and exhaust valves. This variable timing system features actuation rates of more than 150 degrees per second throughout the rev range, to optimize power, torque and economy at all engine speeds. This responsive and uninterrupted power delivery is made possible through the use of spray-guided direct injection (SGDI) which delivers precisely measured quantities of fuel directly into the center of the combustion chambers at pressures of up to 300 bar (2,176 PSI). The fuel is delivered several times during each combustion cycle, creating a more homogenous air-fuel mixture for cleaner and more efficient combustion. To maximize combustion efficiency, these spark plugs are precisely oriented both in relation to the injector and within the combustion chamber. The compression ratio is also raised from 9.5:1 in the supercharged V8 to 10.5:1 in the supercharged V6, further improving fuel economy and reducing emissions. Mounted in the ‘V’ of the engine is latest-generation Roots-type twin vortex supercharger, which is the key to achieving high-specific output and efficiency. A water-cooled intercooler reduces the temperature of the intake air to optimize power and efficiency. The supercharger boost control is electronically managed by new Bosch engine management software. The engine features a system of counter-rotating front and rear balancer weights which lend it the same smoothness and refinement characteristics as its larger V8 brother. The V6 powertrain will be completed by a Jaguar-tuned ZF eight-speed automatic transmission. This transmission's large spread of ratios allows the engine’s prodigious power to be fully exploited while optimizing economy and emissions. Efficiency is also boosted by an Intelligent Stop-Start system which improves fuel consumption by up to seven per cent in European Test Cycle.* Utilizing a twin solenoid starter, the system is able to restart the engine in less time than it takes for the driver’s foot to move from the brake to the accelerator. In engine stop-start 'change of mind' scenarios, it is able to reenergize the engine via rapidly reintroducing fuel into the cylinders. Details: Turbocharged 2.0-liter I4 The introduction of the Turbocharged I4 to the Jaguar range brings greatly improved efficiency* with competitive power outputs. This new engine will be used in a longitudinal configuration and mated to the new ZF eight-speed automatic transmission that will be used on the V6. Again, this transmission's large spread of ratios maximizes both performance and efficiency. Producing 240hp at 5,500 rpm, this engine offers a highly flexible powerband. With a weight of only 304 lbs (138kg), courtesy of compact dimensions and all-aluminum construction, it is the lightest engine ever fitted into a production Jaguar. This low mass improves dynamic agility while bringing further emissions and economy benefits. The engine uses of a low-inertia turbocharger that enables it to produce its high-specific power and torque outputs. The turbocharger is fed via a lightweight thin-walled exhaust manifold which offers a shorter engine warm-up period and faster catalyst light-off. Chain-driven cams operate with variable timing on both the intake and exhaust valves to maximize the broad spread of torque. The engine features specialized coatings on the piston rings and tappets in order to reduce unwanted internal friction. Efficiency and power gains are also realized using direct injection technology. Fuel is injected in precisely measured doses several times during each combustion cycle to ensure the most efficient possible burn with the maximum benefit in terms of power generation while maintaining the lowest possible fuel consumption and emissions. Significant steps have been taken to ensure expected levels of smoothness and sophistication refinement including twin balancer shafts, active engine mounts, an acoustic engine cover, and the use of additional sound insulation. TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS** 340hp Supercharged 3.0-liter V6 Engine type: V6, supercharged Capacity (cc): 2,995 Bore/stroke (mm): 84.5/89 Peak power (HP@rpm): 340@6,500 380hp Supercharged 3.0-liter V6 Engine type: V6, supercharged Capacity (cc): 2,995 Bore/stroke (mm): 84.5/89 Peak power (HP@rpm): 380@6,500 240hp Turbocharged 2.0-liter I4 Engine type: four-cylinder, in-line, turbocharged Capacity (cc): 1999 Bore/stroke (mm): 87.5/83.1 Peak power (HP@rpm): 240@5500 *All figures estimated. EPA estimated ratings pending. **Manufacturer's estimates. All figures correct at time of going to press. Figures will not be final at time of printing– they will be "target figures" subject to final confirmation. Editor's notes The 3.0 V6 S/C and 2.0 Turbocharged I4 will join Jaguar's existing 5.0 liter V8 engines Full emissions and fuel economy data will follow upon final testing and certification View full article

William Maley Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com April 23, 2012 Automakers are always in a overhauling cycle with their model lineup in varying stages. Porsche happens to be in the middle of its cycle. So far, the company has introduced the new Panamera and refreshed versions of the Cayenne, 911, and the Boxster. Automobile magazine has uncovered what the company has got planned up to 2016. First up are the vehicles we know about; coming in 2013 are the new Cayman, the smaller Macan, and the 918 Spyder. The 918 Spyder will come with equipped with a 4.6L aluminum V8 producing 550 hp and 515 lb-ft of torque, and will be paired with two electric motors for a combined total output of “at least 720 hp” and 550 lb-ft. The setup can provide 15 miles of range on the electric power alone. Also the setup can have the engine on or a combination of the two to drive the rear wheels. The front wheels get their own electric motor, which means the 918 will have on-demand all-wheel drive with torque vectoring. In addition the 918 Spyder, there will be a car that will sit underneath and provide competition to the Ferrari 458 Italia. Codenamed the 960, the vehicle will use a new mid-engine platform, that will also underpin future Lamborghini models. Power will come from a 4.0L flat-six with dual twin-scroll turbochargers producing somewhere in the range of 600 HP and 550 lb-ft of torque. Also coming in 2013 is a heavily refreshed Panamera which will also bring a long-wheelbase version and possibly a Panamera shooting brake and a four-seater Panamera cabriolet. There is also the rumor of a smaller Porsche sedan, codenamed Pajun (short for Panamera junior). The Pajun will inherit many components from the larger Panamera and will come with four doors with seating for four. The Pajun will arrive in 2016 and could spawn two or three different body styles. There is talk about a BMW X6 competitor that will be based on the next generation Cayenne that could arrive in 2016. Source: Automobile Magazine View full article

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William Maley Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com April 22, 2012 Ex-Saab CEO Victor Muller on-again, off-again affair with the sports car company he started, Spyker appears to be back on. During Muller’s tenure at Saab, Spyker was put up for sale to the highest bidder. A few companies were interested, but none bit, which has become a blessing in a disguise. Since Saab has bid adieu, Swedish Automotive has changed its name to back to Spyker. Now, Muller has some big plans in store. De Telegraaf is reporting Muller wants to see Spyker’s production reach 1,000 units annually. Last year, Spyker built only 12 of its C8 supercars. Muller also wants add models to Spyker’s lineup. One vehicle floated out was the 2006 D12 Peking-To-Paris Concept. However, for Muller’s plan to come to fruition, he’ll need some investors. De Telegraaf says Muller is in talks with investors and only needs around 25 million euros ($32 million) to get production back online. Investors are skeptical though, with Muller's failed attempts at both Formula One and Saab as examples. Source: De Telegraaf via Motor Authority View full article

William Maley Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com April 22, 2012 After a $1 billion dollar investment into Holden by the Australian government and General Motors, Holden is starting a new project to develop new vehicles for China. Holden announced a new design and engineering partnership with Shanghai General Motors and the Pan Asia Technical Automotive Center (PATAC – an engineering and design joint venture between GM and Shanghai Automotive Industry Corp) to help develop two new vehicles for the Chinese market. Work on the two vehicles will take place at Holden’s technical center in Port Melbourne. The vehicles will be based on existing GM global platforms. No more details were released about the vehicles. Source: Drive.com.au View full article

William Maley Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com April 20, 2012 Yesterday, we brought forth the name of the Lamborghini SUV, the Urus. Today, we bring you the pictures of the Urus. Leaked out before its official debut at the Beijing Motor Show, the Urus matches the renderings we've seen in the past, albeit with sleeker headlamps and a low-slung appearance. The Urus is expected to use the platform that will be used on next-generation Porsche Cayenne, Audi Q7 and upcoming Bentley SUV, but come in 200 lbs lighter. Power will come from a V10, most likely from the Gallardo. Source: Autoblog.nl View full article

I think that's safe to assume, especially with the RLX concept