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Yacht-Inspired Mercedes-Maybach EQS Is No Wilting Flower

Ghaith Madadha
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Yacht-Inspired Mercedes-Maybach EQS Is No Wilting Flower

– Press Release –

Premiere of the Concept Mercedes-Maybach EQS – a look forward at the first fully electric Maybach series model

Mercedes-Maybach is expanding its product portfolio with a luxurious all-electric SUV based on the modular architecture for luxury- and executive-class electric vehicles

06 September 2021, Dubai, UAE – With the Concept EQS, Mercedes-Maybach is providing a clear preview of the first fully electric series-production model for the tradition-steeped luxury brand. The SUV concept vehicle is based on the modular architecture for luxury- and executive-class electric vehicles from Mercedes-Benz and takes the exclusivity of Maybach into a locally emission-free future. The near-production one-off shows identifying features that are characteristic of Maybach – such as the elaborate two-tone paint finish – but with its innovative drive technology, also takes a step towards a significantly more progressive way of presenting the brand. In the interior, the rear becomes a comfortable place to work or rest thanks to Executive seats and the Chauffeur Package. Added to this are exclusive details such as the new door panels, the armrests of which are designed like high-quality sideboards. There are also trim elements in white piano lacquer and materials in deep-sea blue, which create a feel-good atmosphere on board as if on an elegant yacht.

The Mercedes-Maybach brand has always stood for state-of-the-art technology, handcrafted precision and exclusivity. It is considered a pioneer in defining luxury, style and status. Mercedes-Maybach is a legend that is constantly reinventing itself. In 1921, Wilhelm and Karl Maybach began building cars with the goal of creating “the very best of the very best”. It is this claim that has been defining the unique aura of Mercedes‑Maybach for 100 years now.

Maybach customers are looking for something special, and the aim here is to exceed their expectations with the highest standards of exclusivity and individuality, elegant design and consummate craftsmanship as well as state-of-the-art technology. Because customers in the core markets of China, Russia, South Korea, the U.S. and Germany are becoming younger on average, the definition of luxury is also changing.

“Many of our Mercedes-Maybach customers are digitally connected to a high degree and place the highest demands on our digital solutions. They also expect the brand of their choice to stand up for sustainable values and take responsibility for the environment. The Concept Mercedes-Maybach EQS fulfils all these points and embodies sophisticated luxury in a more progressive way: the all-electric powertrain not only makes consistently sustainable mobility possible, but also enables a new level of calm and relaxation for passengers,” said Britta Seeger, Member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Mercedes-Benz AG, responsible for Marketing & Sales.

“The Concept Mercedes-Maybach EQS represents the transformation of the tradition-rich luxury brand into a more progressive, all-electric future. Like every Maybach, it stands for Sophisticated Luxury in all its facets. The near-production concept car represents proof that state-of-the-art electric drive technology and pioneering infotainment with MBUX Hyperscreen combine perfectly with hallmark Maybach craftsmanship and an exquisite interior. This passionate combination of meticulously perfected details creates a unique automotive luxury experience. With the future all-electric SUV series model, we’re extending our leadership aspirations in the high-end segment to the area of electric mobility, too,” says Philipp Schiemer, Head of Top End Vehicle Group at Mercedes-Benz AG and Chairman of the Board of Management of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.

Progressive luxury in brand-characteristic design

The concept car is instantly recognisable as a member of the Mercedes-Maybach and Mercedes-EQ families and provides a preview of the first all-electric SUV in the luxury segment. Based on a purely electric vehicle architecture, the design consistently follows the concept of “purpose design”. A dynamic silhouette extends the entire length of the vehicle, starting with a low front end, flowing tautly over the sloping A-pillar and roof contour and incorporating the airflow break-away edge of the rear spoiler. The transition to a new technological era is recognisable at first glance.

Continuous transitions, without breaks and edges, characterise the seamless design. The expressive surface modelling and muscular shoulders are further characteristic features. And numerous chrome applications set brand-characteristic accents. The pronounced wheel wells with cladding in high-gloss black emphasise power and emotionality.

Gorden Wagener, Chief Design Officer Daimler Group: “With the Concept Mercedes-Maybach EQS, we’re transforming the brand into an electric future after 100 years. The futuristic design consists of an emotional integration of surfaces and shapes. The front, with its progressive Maybach grille, follows the principle of integration and gives the brand a completely new appearance. In conjunction with the new-style aerodynamic SUV proportions, we’re completely redefining the luxury SUV of the future.”

Chrome-plated Maybach pinstripes at the front and rear

The upright black panel front also flows seamlessly into the wraparound bonnet and headlights. The LED light units showcase the lighting with individual diamond blocks framed with a fine-knit mesh of the Maybach emblem. The filigree, vertical Maybach pinstripes in an elegant, three-dimensional effect are chrome-plated and characterise the cooler with its new, innovative Black Panel technology. Elegantly chrome-plated, filigree louvres are also found on the air intake in the bumper. This eye-catching design element is taken up again below the licence plate holder in the bumper at the rear. The classic Maybach lettering on the front bonnet, the upright Mercedes star and the longitudinal chrome-plated trim strip in the centre of the bonnet are a tribute to tradition.

Exclusive two-tone finish and subtly positioned brand emblems

Another key distinguishing feature is the brand’s signature two-tone paint finish in obsidian black metallic and zircon red metallic with a fine pinstripe in chrome as a visual dividing line. Generous chrome surfaces not only extend over the air intakes and diffuser at the front and rear, but also frame the side windows with a dynamically flowing chrome surround in a 3D design. The B-pillars are also chrome plated and have been exclusively finished with a subtle brand emblem pattern. The Maybach “M” can also be found on the D-pillar.

The aerodynamically optimised side running boards bear a customised inlay with the Maybach emblem. Generously dimensioned 24-inch light-alloy wheels in the Maybach “bowl” design – with five short spokes and a flat centre section – as well as Maybach lettering, emphasise the exclusive appearance of the all-electric SUV.

At the rear, the sparkling highlight is provided by the rear lights with their continuous helix light strip. The animation here runs from the outside in. The chrome roof spoiler acts as a sporty, aerodynamic trim element.

Another exclusive equipment option is provided by the automatic comfort doors front and rear. When the user approaches the vehicle, the door handles first extend. As the driver approaches further, the driver’s door opens automatically. Via MBUX, the driver also has the option of opening the rear doors remotely.

Virtual interior as an emotional and stylish statement

The interior of the Concept Mercedes-Maybach EQS is just as emotional and stylish a statement as the exterior – realised completely virtually. The lounge character promises luxurious travel at the highest level. The front seats show parallels to the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class. The First-Class rear suite with two generous individual seats – also inspired by the S-Class – as well as the High-End Rear Seat Entertainment System guarantee the highest level of comfort on board. And because the SUV concept allows for more seat height, the calf rest could be made even larger. It lets the passenger’s feet float above the “faux fur” floor covering.

Floating centre console in the rear and plenty of freedom of movement

The centre console appears to float like a continuous ribbon from the cockpit to the rear seats, creating a particularly light and elegant impression of space with plenty of freedom of movement. In combination with many indirect and direct ambient lighting features, the impression of space and interior components appear visually lighter and also seem to float. The standard vase insert invites you to bring seasonally appropriate floral decorations and thus nature into the interior of the Maybach. Underneath, a large storage area offers plenty of space for utensils or for individual equipment options such as folding tables, a box of champagne goblets or a refrigerated compartment.

Newly designed door panels with floating armrests and controls with the appearance of elegant sideboards emphasise the simultaneously luxurious and modern character of the interior. The concept for colours and materials has been inspired by the world of fashion. Perfect craftsmanship, high-quality materials and extraordinary details show a new level of exclusivity. The colour combination of white and a deep, dark blue creates a spacious and technically sophisticated environment. A special highlight is the trim element in a white chrome look. Its rosé gold-coloured pilaster strips follow the shape perfectly. Additional rosé gold-coloured accents create an ideal contrast and contribute significantly to the luxurious feel of the interior.

Another unexpected contrast is brought to the interior by a fashion-inspired, progressive textile of the highest quality. It is used generously around the rear-seat area, while flashes of it also appear in further details in the interior. A progressive graphic printed on leather in the roof liner area demonstrates the perfect fusion of a traditional luxury material with modern technology.

MBUX Hyperscreen with Maybach-specific display styles

Another special eye-catcher in the interior is the MBUX Hyperscreen with Maybach-specific display styles and content. This large, curved screen unit extends almost from A-pillar to A-pillar. Three screens sit under a glass cover and appear to merge into one. The 12.3-inch OLED display for the front passenger gives them their own display and control area. There, the entertainment functions are only available while the car is being driven in accordance with the country-specific legal regulations. If the interior camera detects that the driver is looking at the passenger display, this is automatically dimmed when certain content is showing.

With adaptive software thanks to artificial intelligence, MBUX adapts completely to its user. It makes personalised suggestions for numerous infotainment, comfort and vehicle functions. With the zero layer, the most important applications are always offered on the top level within the field of vision, according to situation and context. Searching through submenus is no longer necessary.

In the high-resolution display of the infotainment system, there is an EQ tile in the main menu that serves as a central access point to the specific displays and settings. These include the charging current, departure time, energy flow and consumption histogram. In addition, the navigation and driving programs can also be operated via the media display. EV-specific navigation services and functions are also offered in conjunction with Mercedes me connect. These include, for example, the display of charging stations, the electric range and optimised route planning, taking into account the charging status, the weather and the traffic situation.

In addition, round air vents in high-gloss chrome, galvanised trim elements and the multifunction steering wheel from the VISION EQS with flattened top and bottom sections emphasise the high-quality and sophisticated look. The ambient lighting system, which can be adjusted in many ways, also creates a stylish atmosphere.

Modular architecture also serves as basis for another electric SUV

The Concept Mercedes-Maybach EQS is based on the modular architecture for luxury- and executive-class electric vehicles from Mercedes-Benz. A further all-electric model is also set to appear on this basis, the EQS SUV, which will go into series production in 2022, even before the Maybach. Here, too, the electric powertrain ensures exceptionally smooth and quiet running and provides for a new level of calm and relaxation in the interior. According to WLTP, ranges of around 600 kilometres are planned for the Mercedes EQS SUV architecture.

Volkswagen ID. Life Concept: The €20,000, 21st Century People’s Car!?

Ghaith Madadha
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Volkswagen ID. Life Concept: The €20,000, 21st Century People’s Car!?

– Press Release –

A look ahead to entry-level electric mobility: world premiere of the ID. LIFE 

  • At the International Motor Show IAA MOBILITY 2021 in Munich, Volkswagen presents a compact crossover concept car
  • The ID. LIFE embodies sustainability, digital technology, timeless design and an innovative interior
  • The concept car is consistently focused on users and their needs and provides a glimpse of what urban mobility will look like in the future
  • Volkswagen is speeding up the transformation to electric mobility with the ACCELERATE strategy: ID. family to be expanded with a new model in the small car segment from 2025 onwards

06 September 2021, Munich / Wolfsburg, Germany – Volkswagen is once again speeding up the transformation to electric mobility with its ACCELERATE strategy, making sustainable mobility accessible to even more people by 2025, a whole two years earlier than originally planned, Volkswagen will launch an ID. family model for the small car segment. It will cost approximately 20,000 euros. The ID. LIFE concept car, which was presented at the International Motor Show IAA MOBILITY 2021 in Munich, gives an impression of how a vehicle of this type would look.

The vision of a fully electric small car for the urban environment is centred around people and communal experiences. The concept car combines sustainability and digitalisation with extremely flexible usage: the ID. LIFE can become a mini cinema or a gaming centre, for instance, or simply be used for relaxing in the open air.

“The ID. LIFE is our vision of next-generation fully electric urban mobility. The concept car provides a preview of an ID. model in the small car segment that we will be launching in 2025, priced at around 20,000 euros. This means we are making electric mobility accessible to even more people”, says Ralf Brandstätter, CEO of the Volkswagen brand. “In creating the ID. LIFE, we have consistently focused on the needs of younger customers. We believe that, even more so than today, the car of the future will be about lifestyle and personal expression. The customer of tomorrow won’t simply want to get from A to B; they will be much more interested in the experiences that a car can offer. The ID. LIFE is our answer to this.”

Pared-down design. The design of the ID. LIFE is strikingly clear, pared-down and high-quality. Decorative elements and add-on parts are dispensed with, as is any complex mix of materials. The horizontal division between the body, glass surfaces and roof also contributes to the car’s purist appearance. An individualised and removable roof made of air chamber textile lends an open-air feeling in the ID. LIFE, while also reducing the vehicle weight.

Electric motor drives the front wheels. The ID. LIFE is based on a smaller variant of Volkswagen’s modular electric drive matrix (MEB) that has been developed specifically for the small car segment. This is the first time a vehicle based on the MEB has front-wheel drive. With its 172 kW (234 PS) electric motor, the ID. LIFE accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 6.9 seconds, while its 57 kWh high-voltage battery enables a range of some 400 kilometres (WLTP).

“The ID. LIFE proves once again how uniquely flexible the MEB is. The platform is suitable for vehicles of all types, from small cars to vans,” says Thomas Ulbrich, member of the Volkswagen Brand Board of Management for Development. “It’s the most scalable electrical architecture in the industry. We’re just beginning to tap into the potential of MEB. Performance, charging capacity and range will continue to improve with each new model and software update.”

Natural and recycled materials. The sustainable character of the ID. LIFE is reflected particularly in the choice of materials and paint finishes. In the clear coat for the bodywork, wood chips are used as a natural colouring agent along with a bio-based hardener. The air chamber textile for the roof and front cover is made from 100% recycled PET bottles. In the interior, wood in the dashboard and rear seat surrounds is combined with ArtVelours Eco for the seat surfaces and door trims. Bio-oil, natural rubber and rice husks are just some of the materials that serve as a basis for the tyres on the ID. LIFE.

Multifunctional interior. The ID. LIFE is a reliable companion for digital experiences of various kinds. For example, it can be converted into a cinema or gaming lounge in no time at all. The vehicle comes with a video game console and projector, as well as a projection screen that extends from the dash panel when required. Other devices can be connected as needed to the 230-volt / 16-amp power supply in the interior. The seating design, too, is extremely flexible, in keeping with the idea of the car as a companion for all situations and lifestyles. For instance, the front seat bench can be completely folded down, as can the rear seat bench. This enables a range of different possibilities, from cinema seating, to a bed measuring around two metres in length, to a cargo version that maximises luggage volume.

Innovative digital operating concept. Cameras and a display replace both the exterior and interior mirrors. Essential driving functions are controlled via a touch panel on the hexagonal, open-topped steering wheel, and a smartphone can be integrated in the operating system. Personal devices – whether smartphones or tablets – can be used to operate the navigation system, for instance. Music, films and games stored on the device can be used seamlessly in the ID. LIFE, with visuals displayed on the projection screen.

ACCELERATE strategy is speeding up the transformation process. The expansion of the ID. family into the small car segment at prices starting from 20,000 euros is another key step towards fully electrified mobility. By 2030, Volkswagen aims to increase the share of all-electric models in total vehicle sales in Europe to at least 70 per cent and in North America and China to at least 50 per cent.

Audi Grandsphere Concept: Ingolstadt’s Sexiest “Experience Device” Yet

Ghaith Madadha
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0
Audi Grandsphere Concept: Ingolstadt’s Sexiest “Experience Device” Yet

– Press Release –

First class toward the future

  • Audi grandsphere concept – luxury sedan with an electric drive system
  • New interior concept: free space in the front row
  • Automated driving creates an innovative experience sphere

05 September, 2021, Ingolstadt, Germany – The private jet for the road – At the IAA 2021, Audi is presenting the Audi grandsphere concept study. Like a first class flight, the 5.35 m (17.6 ft.) long grandsphere sedan combines the luxury of private travel in the greatest of comfort with a comprehensive onboard experience offering. Level 4 automated driving makes new dimensions of freedom possible: in this mode, the interior turns into a spacious sphere of experience without a steering wheel, pedals, or displays. And the front seats become a first class lounge with maximum space, freer views, and access to all the functions of a holistic digital ecosystem that the Audi grandsphere is integrated into.

As the second of three “sphere” concept cars from the brand with the four rings, the Audi grandsphere has a special place. That is because the technologies and design features assembled in it will turn up again within a few years in future Audi series. The Audi grandsphere concept illustrates the brand’s claim that it is becoming the trendsetter at the top of the automotive industry for technological transformation and completely new, holistic mobility offerings.

The electrically driven roadster Audi skysphere concept debuted in August 2021 – it was a spectacular vision of an automatically driving GT that transforms into a self-driving sports car with a variable wheelbase. These two concept cars – as well as the Audi urbansphere, which will appear as the third part of the trio in 2022 – are linked by their overall concept, which is derived from their ability to drive automatically at level 4. Audi is working with CARIAD, the Volkswagen Group’s software think tank, toward introducing that technology in the second half of the decade.

Level 4: not only does it change the interior space of the traditional driver-oriented cockpit and passenger seats into a spacious lounge as soon as the steering wheel and pedals are reduced. At the same time, it opens up new levels of freedom for all the passengers. That is because the Audi grandsphere not only frees the driver from the tasks of driving whenever possible, but at the same time also offers everyone onboard a wide range of options to use that freedom for individually variable experiences: communication or relaxation, work or withdrawal into a private sphere as desired. The Audi grandsphere concept transforms from being strictly an automobile in an “experience device.“

Thanks to Audi’s own services and the ability to integrate digital services, the possibilities are nearly endless. These can be used to access a variety of service options related to the current trip – such as designing a spectacular scenic route, as well as restaurant or hotel options. The vehicle also takes care of everyday tasks that go beyond the ride itself. For example, the autonomous Audi grandsphere concept picks up its passengers with information about their current destination and independently handles parking and charging.

Customized infotainment options are also available, such as seamless integration of onboard streaming from music and video providers that have been used previously. In an additional step, Audi will keep personalized and exclusive options available in the future – concerts, cultural events, or even sporting events that customers are invited to.

The Audi grandsphere concept illustrates the brand’s claim that it defines the progressive luxury of the future: for Audi, that includes the option of new high-class experiences, enabled by digitalization, as well as a holistic approach to sustainability with the goal of carbon neutrality in the near future along the entire value chain.

First class for the future times three

Audi skysphere, Audi grandsphere, and Audi urbansphere are the three concept cars that the brand with the four rings is using to showcase its vision of progressive luxury. In the process, Audi is creating a vehicle experience that goes far beyond the purpose of merely spending time in a car to get from point A to point B, and even far beyond the driving experience itself.

These concept cars feature a new design that ultimately reimagines the interior, the passenger compartment, as the center of the vehicle and no longer subordinates the passenger experience to the requirements of the technology. This is reflected in the variable layout of the interior, the disappearance of the controls, and the sheer expanse of the cabin, in addition to linking them to new service offerings.

The design process – from the inside out

Even the “sphere” in the name sends a signal: the heart of the Audi skysphere, grandsphere, and urbansphere concept vehicles is always the interior. The drive system and the handling are no longer at the top of the design specifications in this new generation of cars. Instead, the starting point is the interior, the occupants’ living and experience sphere while traveling. Their needs and desires shape the space, the architecture, and the functions. With that reassessment, the design process itself changes. At the beginning of all discussions, the focus is directed toward the interior and its design. Only after that do we design the package, exterior lines, and proportions that shape the car into a total work of art, along with the technological premises.

Space, form, function – the interior

The doors of the Audi grandsphere concept are reversed so front and back touch; there is no B-pillar. The whole world of the interior opens up to passengers as soon as they climb in. But even before that, the Audi grandsphere has identified its passengers with a pathway identification – an innovative feature – that opens the doors and welcomes them with individually staged displays and ambient light. The driver and passenger positions are automatically detected and an array of personal comfort features – such as the climate control settings and the seats – are adjusted for the individual seats. At the same time, the infotainment system accesses the passengers’ most recently used services and seamlessly resumes them inside the car. For instance, a video that a passenger was streaming on a tablet is automatically played back over the display surface in the Audi grandsphere.

On the driver’s side, on the other hand, the projection surface automatically picks up on displaying the news the occupant was reading before getting in.

In the interior, the lines on the decorative surfaces and functional elements are emphatically horizontal. The open, broad interior supports the impression of a unique space and the lack of a steering wheel, pedals, or conventional dashboard create a feeling of openness and breadth.

The large glass surfaces, expansive windshield, and transparent ceiling also emphasize that feeling. The same goes for the particular geometry of the side windows: their upper half is distinctively angled – the widest part is just slightly above eye level. It is a trick that Audi demonstrated for the first time in 2017 with its futuristic AI:CON concept car and which is now moving toward series production.

The change in the comfort zone is radical: if the boss’ seat is in the back in a conventional sedan, first class has now shifted forward into the front row. That is because it is no longer necessarily subordinated, first and foremost, to the driving function and the controls. In level 4 driving, the steering wheel and pedals disappear and the front area of the cabin becomes actual free space in all its breadth, with a perfect view through the large front and side windows, as well as maximum possibilities for movement.

The interior appears particularly wide when the two individual front seats are pushed all the way back. The Audi grandsphere is a 2+2-seater. An upholstered, two-person bench with an armrest that goes around the side is integrated as a seating option in the back, while both front seats are designed for first class comfort and space.

The seating surfaces and backs of the two seats with integrated belts are visually separate. The side bolsters of the seat backs are discreetly bent, thereby ensuring support while driving through curves. The possible seat positions are optimized for every use: in the upright position, the Audi grandsphere can be perfectly ergonomically controlled – as desired and outside level 4 zones. With the back tilted 40 degrees, passengers can relax and use the infotainment system. Finally, if the back is folded out to 60 degrees, it achieves a perfect resting position. The headrest can be bent 15 degrees forward. Outlets for air that is filtered and temperature controlled – even scented, as desired – as well as speakers that are inaudible to other passengers and allow for a private aural zone are all integrated into this area.

Between the front seats – normally concealed under metallic trim – there is a compact, onboard cooler with two glasses and a designed, elegant bottle for soft drinks. This is another sign of the Audi grandsphere concept’s first class claim.

No fittings, no screens: displays and operation

One surprise when looking around in the Audi grandsphere’s natural-colored, reduced-design interior: neither batteries of dial instruments nor black screens for virtual display concepts are visible before activating the driving functions – the oft-cited digital detox at its finest.

Instead, there are clearly articulated and sedate areas with materials of the highest quality. Wood and wool, synthetic textile fabrics and metal are visible and pleasant to touch as wall cladding, seat covering, and carpeting. Many of these materials, like the hornbeam veneers, come from sustainable cultivation or are made from recycled raw materials. There is no leather in the Audi grandsphere – even this is in keeping with a progressive understanding of luxury, which is always inseparable from sustainability.

Another surprise whenever the vehicle comes to life at the touch of a fingertip: there are displays – but they take the form of projections on the wooden surfaces under the windshield. Depending on the driving status – whether manual with a steering wheel or level 4 – they are either distributed across the entire width of the interior or segmented for the driver and front seat passenger. All the information that is necessary while traveling is there in high resolution and precisely readable.

Alternatively, the projection surfaces can also be used – in automated driving mode – as CinemaScope screens for infotainment content or even as screens for video conferences. In addition, a sensor bar is integrated under the projection surfaces for quick switching between content – for instance, for music or navigation. It shows all the functions and applications that are active in the car. Icons flash for the different menus.

One particular, extremely innovative control element is located near the door cut-out on the interior cladding: the MMI touchless response. If the driver is sitting in the active position behind the steering wheel, far toward the front in the interior, he or she can use that control to haptically select various function menus via a rotary ring and buttons and click through the different levels. A simple, intuitive operation.

If, on the other hand, the driver reclines the seat far to the back during level 4 driving, he or she does not have to do without these comfort items. That is because, at that point, a combination of eye tracking and gesture control are used. A sensor directed at the eye detects the line of sight when the control unit is to be engaged. And the passenger only needs to make analogous hand motions – without leaning over – that are similar to haptic operation and can use the system just as well that way – without touching a thing.

Whether it is eye tracking, gesture or voice control, handwritten input, or touch, the same thing applies to all operation modes: the Audi grandsphere concept adjusts to the individual user and learns his or her preferences and frequently used menus – and on that basis it can not only sensibly complete rudimentary commands, but also give personal proposals directly to the user.

Control panels are even integrated into the armrests on the doors. That way, the car always offers passengers invisible touch surfaces using an optic indicator to show its position. At the same time, there are VR glasses in the armrests on the left and right doors that can be used in conjunction with infotainment options – for instance for the holoride system.

Dynamic monolith – the exterior design

At 5.35 m (17.6 ft.) long, 2 m (6.6 ft.) wide, and 1.39 m (4.6 ft.) high, the Audi grandsphere concept’s measurements reveal this sedan as an unambiguous example of the luxury class automobile. The 3.19 m (10.5 ft.) wheelbase indicates top value, which even overshadows the long version of the current Audi A8. But even more striking than what these figures suggest is the visual impression that it makes upon seeing it for the first time. That is because the Audi grandsphere looks nothing like a traditional sedan, but rather more like a tightly drawn four-door GT with a line the comes straight from the wind tunnel. And it does that while doing without any decor or superfluous flourishes.

In the process, the Audi grandsphere consistently implements the specific conditions of the electric drive system right in the front end – a short overhang, a flat hood, and the windshield that projects far forward as the foremost limit of the large interior. Nonetheless, unlike many electric cars, it does not look futuristic at all, but rather emphasizes traditional beauty ideals. The top edge of the hood is drawn far into the side of the chassis in a horizontal line, suggesting a long engine compartment – all characteristics of a GT. In the rear, that line continues at the same height across the rear wheel well, encompassing the whole cabin and emphasizing its size.

A second horizontal line emanates from the bottom edge of the hood and runs under the side windows and likewise around the entire cabin. This subdivides the door surfaces into horizontally oriented shoulders and the convex verticals below them above the rocker panel. The wheel wells have a soft, yet distinctive shape – typical Audi. The slender rear behind the massive C-pillar is a quote from traditional streamlining. And the dynamically sloping arc of the roofline reveals the grandsphere as part of the Audi Sportback tradition. All lines and all surfaces seem to organically correlate, combining to form one monolithic body.

At 23 inches, the wheels of the Audi grandsphere concept quote an icon from the 1990s – the Audi Avus. At the same time, the six double spokes signal light construction and stability, recalling functional motorsport wheels and the Bauhaus tradition in brand design.

Visible technology – light

In the front end, there is an innovative interpretation of the Singleframe that defines Audi’s look: it is shaped like a flat hexagon. The interior surfaces, behind a transparent covering, are indirectly lit from above while driving – a distinctive, extremely three-dimensionally structured visual effect.

The headlight units on the upper side of the Singleframe look narrow, like focused eyes. The lighting units reference the four rings brand logo: they enlarge and isolate the intersection of two rings into a pupil – a new, unmistakable digital light signature. This means that the size of the light areas can be adjusted according to their function as daytime running lights or as dynamically staged blinkers – depending on the traffic situation – and thereby issue an obvious signal in the interest of safety. The same graphic is also in the rear lighting units – another significant characteristic of the Audi light design.

Drive system and charging

The technology platform of the Audi grandsphere – what is known as the Premium Platform Electric, or PPE – was conceived exclusively for battery-powered electric drive systems and therefore it takes full advantage of that technology. The key element of PPE is a battery module between the axles that holds around 120 kWh of energy in the grandsphere concept. A flat battery layout is possible because Audi uses the entire vehicle base between the axes.

Together with the large wheels, this produces basic proportions that are perfect not only from a design perspective. The core benefits include a long interior and therefore legroom in both rows of seats. Additionally, the absence of a gearbox cover and a cardan tunnel increases spatial comfort in electric cars.

Nonetheless, the Audi grandsphere does not forego the quattro drive system, which is essential to the brand. That is because the concept car has separate electric motors mounted on the front and rear axles that use electronic coordination to deliver all-wheel drive on demand and execute a perfect balance between driving dynamics and energy efficiency. The Audi grandsphere concept’s two electric motors are capable of delivering a total output of 530 kW and a torque of 960 Newton meters.

Fast charging, high range

The heart of the drive system is the 800 volt charging technology. Like the Audi e-tron GT before it, this technology ensures that the battery can be charged with up to 270 kW in a very short time at fast-charging stations.

This strategy makes charging times that approach a refueling stop for a car with a conventional engine possible. Just ten minutes are enough to charge the battery to a level sufficient to power the car more than 300 kilometers (186 miles). In less than 25 minutes, you can charge the 120 kWh battery from 5 to 80 percent.

Together with a range of more than 750 kilometers (466 miles) – depending on the selected drive system and power output – the Audi grandsphere concept is unconditionally suitable for long distances. Furthermore, its range and charging speed keep pace with those of combustion engines, making it the perfect universal car for everyday needs.

In terms of dynamic qualities, the Audi grandsphere concept – as is typical for an electric car – truly outshines its rivals with combustion engines. Thanks to the high torque that is available from the first revolution, acceleration from 0-100 km/h (62 mph) takes just over four seconds; maximum speed is limited in the interest of increased range.

Air suspension and active suspension for maximum comfort

The front wheels are connected via a five-link axle, specially optimized for electric vehicles. In the rear, there is a multi-link axle that, like the front, is made of aluminum. Despite the long wheelbase, the steerable rear wheels provide excellent maneuverability. The luxurious Audi grandsphere concept touring sedan utilizes Audi air suspension – a single chamber system with adaptive dampers. Quite well suited for dynamic driving when necessary it guarantees gentle comfort without noticeable vehicle body movements, under normal conditions.

The reason: the Audi grandsphere concept has active suspension. The high-tech system can separately pull up or push down on each wheel separately in milliseconds via electromechanical actuators. That makes it possible to actively control the state of the chassis in every driving situation and therefore significantly reduce pitching and plunging when accelerating or braking. Thanks to the front camera, which recognizes unevenness, the adjustments happen predictively. The navigation system’s topographical data are also used to integrate curve radii, gradients, and inclines into the system’s projection.

Aston Martin Vantage Enlists For Dubai Police Duties

Ghaith Madadha
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0
Aston Martin Vantage Enlists For Dubai Police Duties

– Press Release –

ASTON MARTIN VANTAGE JOINS DUBAI POLICE FLEET

  • Bold and distinctive Vantage at heart of Aston Martin sports car range now joins Dubai Police force
  • Features ‘77’ number plate: the number 7 a nod to the UAE’s seven Emirates and world’s most known secret agent
  • Powered by 4.0-litre, 510PS/685Nm twin-turbo V8 mated to eight-speed ZF transmission; maximum speed 314 km/hr, 0-100 km/hr in 3.5 seconds

04 September 2021, Dubai, UAE – The Aston Martin Vantage has officially joined the internationally acclaimed Dubai Police fleet, dressed in full livery complete with flashing lights. The agile, performance-driven Vantage will be seen on Dubai’s roads alongside an enviable collection of sports and supercars used to service the police force and drive public engagement.

Aston Martin has been present in the UAE for more than 50 years, and now this collaborative effort between its MENA team and Dubai Police only stands to strengthen its presence alongside its flagship dealerships in Dubai and the capital, home to the marque’s full range of celebrated sports cars and new SUV.

The Dubai Police Vantage features a custom ‘77’ number plate, the number 7 a nod to the UAE’s seven Emirates as well as the British marque’s long-standing association with the world’s most famous secret agent, James Bond – just in time for the release of the highly anticipated No Time to Die movie next month.

“It is an honour to have an Aston Martin join Dubai Police’s fleet of supercars and the Vantage is the perfect model to make such a statement; purity at its finest, a hint of aggression and engineering that pushes it to upwards of 300 km/hr. We are grateful to the team at Dubai Police, and especially HE Lieutenant General Abdullah Khalifa Al Marri, Commander-in-Chief, for bringing this partnership to life,” said Ramzi Atat, Head of Marketing and Communications MENA, Aston Martin.

The heartbeat of Aston Martin’s purest models and an evocative name for a magnificent bloodline of thoroughbred sports cars, Vantage demands a bold and distinctive design language. One of  the luxury British marque’s most famous model designations, its name proudly sits on more than a third of all the sports cars ever made by the brand and its family forms a crucial part of the ever-evolving Aston Martin story.

The historic Vantage, which recently celebrated its 70th anniversary, has become synonymous with cutting-edge styling, pace and power. Designed for aerodynamic excellence as well as obvious kerb appeal, the current model features a 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine with a peak power output of 503BHP and a torque peak of 505lb-ft, mated to a rear-mounted 8-speed automatic gearbox manufactured by ZF.

This endows the Vantage with an impressive acceleration of 0-100 km/hr time of 3.5 seconds, and supports a top speed of 314 km/hr, delivering raw athleticism and an enticing performance feel.

The Dubai Police Vantage will soon make its event debut, being showcased alongside other models in the force’s fleet at the highly anticipated EXPO 2020 in October 2021.

Lada Niva Bronto Is Back And Better Than Ever

Ghaith Madadha
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Lada Niva Bronto Is Back And Better Than Ever

– Press Release –

Start of sales of the renewed Niva Bronto

03 September 2021, Tolyatti, Russian Federation – AVTOVAZ announces start of sales of the updated Niva Bronto. The SUV, created on the basis of the 3-door Niva Legend, has become even more comfortable and expressive, retaining its main advantages – uncompromising character and unsurpassed cross-country ability. The price for a LADA SUV starts from 917,900 rubles.

Off-road is his element. The Bronto easily copes with any road obstacles thanks to the unique all-wheel drive system. Its construction difference lies in the presence of self-locking screw differentials in the front and rear axles, as well as the main pair with an increased gear ratio of 4.1, which provide a more efficient transmission of torque from the transfer case to the wheels. In addition, the Niva Bronto has an improved body geometry (ground clearance 240 mm), a reinforced rear axle, modified shock absorbers with increased strokes in the front and rear suspension.

The updated Niva Bronto is offered in two versions – Luxe and Prestige. The Luxe package includes metal bumpers, comfortable rails, wheel arch extensions and powerful wheels that emphasize the masculine character of the model. The 15” alloy wheels come in combination with special tires with an active ground tread and an external diameter of 29 inches. In the Prestige version, the exterior is complemented by an original radiator grille and massive plastic bumpers, threshold protection, plastic wheel arch linings and fog lights.

The interior of the Niva Bronto received a number of stylistic and technical improvements already known for the Niva Legend model: an updated dashboard with a climate system, more comfortable heated seats, an Era-GLONASS system, an improved noise and vibration isolation package.

Additional certified equipment is available for both modifications, for example, the installation of a light panel on the roof, a special Camouflage paint, as well as a Comfort package with an audio system, a central lock and an alarm system.

Morgan 3-Wheeler Trades V-Twin For 3-Pots

Ghaith Madadha
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Morgan 3-Wheeler Trades V-Twin For 3-Pots

– Press Release –

MORGAN CONFIRMS ALL-NEW THREE-WHEELED MODEL

  • The vehicle in the accompanying photographs is confirmed as the replacement for the Morgan 3 Wheeler undergoing testing
  • The new model will be defined by its all-new design, significant engineering enhancements, and a spirit of adventure
  • New design language inspired by the early jet age ensures that the new model will be instantly recognisable from its predecessors
  • The all-new model will be powered by an internal combustion engine at launch, specifically an inline three-cylinder naturally aspirated engine from Ford
  • The use of a Ford engine continues Morgan’s long-established application of Ford engines. In fact, the company has used Ford engines in both three and four-wheeled models since 1933

01 September 2021, Malvern, UK – The Morgan Motor Company has confirmed it is working on an all-new three-wheeled vehicle to replace the outgoing Morgan 3 Wheeler. An early glimpse of the model shows a heavily disguised engineering prototype undergoing durability testing.

Having previously stated “The Morgan 3 Wheeler will return”, this announcement of a new model officially marks the beginning of the next chapter in the story of Morgan’s three-wheeled vehicles.

Whilst a name is not confirmed for the new three-wheeled model, it will be defined by an all-new design, adventurous character, and significant engineering advancements. In particular, the vehicle will take inspiration from the many owners of the outgoing model that have embraced adventure travel and touring, and whose incredible journeys have reached all corners of the globe.

Whilst many details on the new model are yet to be announced, the use of an internal combustion engine can be confirmed. Specifically, a naturally aspirated inline three-cylinder Ford engine, which continues the company’s long-standing use of Ford powerplants.  Its testing and durability programme marks the most extensive validation of any Morgan ever developed.

Orders for the previous Morgan 3 Wheeler – which started production in 2011 – closed at the beginning of 2021, with production of these vehicles taking place throughout the year. This includes the final 33 P101 cars, which saw a number of cosmetic enhancements to celebrate the end of the model’s highly successful ten-year production run.

Morgan’s three wheelers date back to the founding of the company in 1909, when its founder, HFS Morgan, built a three-wheeled vehicle to transport him around the Malvern Hills. It immediately proved popular and spawned many variants over the coming decades. In fact, it wasn’t until nearly thirty years into the firm’s history that it would start producing four-wheeled cars.

Steve Morris, Chairman and CEO of Morgan Motor Company, said: “We are thrilled to confirm plans for an all-new three-wheeled Morgan, a model that continues an incredible story dating back to 1909. The outgoing 3 Wheeler was adored by customers and enthusiasts alike, and will inspire this next generation. The upcoming model is an all-new ground-up design and the first whole vehicle programme to be completed under the stewardship of Investindustrial. Morgan’s team of engineers and designers have considered everything that the company has learnt from the decade of building and selling the previous model. We look forward to sharing more about this exciting new vehicle in due course.”

MG T60 2.8L 4×4 Double Cab: Taking On The Truck World

Ghaith Madadha
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MG T60 2.8L 4×4 Double Cab: Taking On The Truck World

Introduced in Middle East markets starting from last year, the MG T60 is the ‘British born’ Chinese automaker’s gambit into the popular light pick-up truck segment. Competitively priced, capable and branded under the increasingly popular MG brand for regional markets, the T60 is based on a tried and tested platform, sold under the Maxus brand by parent company SAIC in many other markets. Extensively driven on and off Jordanian roads, the range-topping T60 2.8L 4×4 Double Cab version proved as adept a dual-use truck as most established brands.

Among the better looking trucks in its segment, the MG T60’s manages to be both assertively imposing but without being overstated or overly complicated in its fascia design. Big, but seemingly squinting, browed and inwardly tilted headlights sit above sculpted faux lower side vents and flank a wide chrome-ringed grille with a honeycomb mesh pattern and big, seemingly floating octagonal MG emblem. Meanwhile, its bonnet height is set so that it lends an imposing presence, but not so high that it obstructs front visibility unduly, as some competitors.

An attractive truck with sculpted bumper and side panels, the T60 also features aggressive squared wheel-arches, broad, confident stance and largely well-proportioned profile. Under its clamshell bonnet, the range-topping Middle East spec T60 is meanwhile powered by a confident 2.8-litre common-rail turbo-diesel four-cylinder engine. Among the more powerful light pick-ups offered locally, the T60 modestly out-muscles much of its in-segment mid-range competition, with 148BHP at 3,400rpm and mighty 266lb/ft peak torque throughout a comparatively wide 1,600-2500rpm band, and is estimated as carrying its approximate 2-tonne mass through 0-100km/h in roughly 12-seconds.

Based on an Italian MV Motori design, the T60’s engine delivers confident on the move performance. Like any turbo-diesel, it operates best in its torque-rich mid-range sweet spot, where it overtakes and climbs inclines with authoritative ease. From idling, the T60’s turbo lag is shorter than many competitors, as the turbo spools up, but can largely be negated by taking advantage of deft clutch control to feed in power progressively through an intuitive biting point. Similarly, the T60 spins more eagerly to its low 3,750rpm rev limit than many similar turbo-diesels.

Driving the rear wheels on tarmac through a 6-speed manual gearbox, the T60 is a fun and engaging drive. Its Hyundai-sourced gearbox features well-spaced ratios and is easy enough to use, but is slightly notchy when assertively downshifting from third to second. Meanwhile, reverse gear is indicated by an audio chime, given that one does not need to lift or compress the gear lever to engage it. Thoroughly capable over most dirt roads, dusty trails and even loose surface inclines in rear-drive, engaging the T60’s four-wheel-drive significantly improves traction in such conditions.

Built on rugged ladder frame chassis with a live rear axle, the T60 is a bona fide work truck. Designed for carrying and towing effectively, the T60’s leaf spring suspension works better with a payload pushing down for a smoother ride and more traction. That said, the T60 can be slightly bouncy over semi-paved roads and rutted trails or big on-road bumps, but is smoother, more settled and forgiving than many in its class. A comfortable long distance cruiser on highways, the T60 was stable at speed, while diesel clatter was expectedly present but less intrusive than many rivals.

Settled on highway and built to shrug off lumps and bumps durably, the T60 could perhaps do with slightly firmer springs for dismounting bigger speed bumps, but nevertheless proved to be a more rewarding, capable and better handling vehicle than expected in its class. With near ideal weighting, double wishbone suspension and well-weighted hydraulic steering, it turns in tidily, and corners well with good body lean control and balance for its high riding segment. Meanwhile, four wheel disc brakes are a step up from many competitors’ rear drums.

Confidently carving through brisk sprawling switchbacks with poise and control, the T60 can be intuitively placed on the road. However, where it stood out in terms of handling was how it felt buttoned down and refined powering out of tighter and quicker corners, owing to its limited slip rear differential, which distributes power as necessary to maintain traction and grip, while avoiding much of the axle hop often typical of live axle leaf spring rear set-ups. More so, the limited slip differential serves it well with off-road traction.

A capable off-roader, the T60 meanwhile features low gear ratio four-wheel-drive, which can be engaged for the most demanding low traction, steep incline, and low speed, high power situations. The T60 meanwhile also features high 215mm ground clearance and generous off-road angles, in addition to wide tread 245/70R16 tyres with tall side walls for added off-road ability, absorption, comfort and durability. Unstated, the T60’s payload and towing capacities are expected to be comparable to competitors, as is its generously sized cargo bed.

Spacious for front and rear passengers, especially without a sunroof, the T60’s cabin is neither bare bones nor overly indulgent, but instead features a good level of useful equipment including a 4-speaker stereo with USB port, front and rear A/C, remote central locking, ABS, electronic stability control, Isofix child seat anchors, dual front airbags, and crucially, reverse parking sensors given a pick-up truck’s restricted rear visibility. With pleasant but hard wearing materials and leatherette upholstery, the T60’s manually adjustable driving position is meanwhile reasonably well adjustable, comfortable and supportive, with decent over bonnet visibility.

Specifications: MG T60 2.8L 4×4 Double Cab

  • Engine: 2.8-litre, common-rail turbo-diesel, in-line 4-cylinders
  • Bore x stroke: 94 x 100mm
  • Compression ratio: 17:1
  • Valve-train: 16-valve, DOHC
  • Gearbox: 6-speed manual
  • Driveline: Four-wheel-drive, low gear transfer case, limited slip rear differential
  • Power, BHP (PS) [kW]: 148 (150) [110] @3,400rpm
  • Specific power: 53.3BHP/litre
  • Power-to-weight: 71.8BHP/tonne
  • Torque, lb/ft (Nm): 266 (360) @1,600-2,500rpm
  • Specific torque: 129.7Nm/litre
  • Torque-to-weight: 174.7Nm/tonne
  • Maximum engine speed: 3,750rpm
  • 0-100km/h: approximately 12-seconds (estimate)
  • Fuel capacity: 75-litres
  • Length: 5,365mm
  • Width: 1,900mm
  • Height: 1,809mm
  • Wheelbase: 3,155mm
  • Track: 1,580mm
  • Ground clearance: 215mm
  • Load floor length: 1,485mm
  • Load floor width, max: 1,510mm
  • Load floor depth: 530mm
  • Kerb weight: 2,060kg (estimate)
  • Suspension, F/R: Double wishbones, coilovers / leaf springs, live axle
  • Steering: Hydraulic-assisted rack & pinion
  • Brakes, F/R: Ventilated discs / discs
  • Tyres: 245/70R16
  • Price, on-the-road: JD19,900 (including third party insurance and 3-year / 120,000km warranty)

Chevrolet COPO Camaro’s Big Block Comeback

Ghaith Madadha
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Chevrolet COPO Camaro’s Big Block Comeback

– Press Release –

Chevrolet COPO Camaro Brings Back the Big Block for 2022

COPO Camaro returns to the drag strip and its roots with a 572-cubic-inch Big Block V-8

30 July 2021, Detroit, Michigan, USA – The COPO Camaro returns to the drag strip for 2022 with a newly available 572-cubic-inch engine. The Big Block V-8 channels the spirit of the original 1969 COPO Camaro, a purpose-built drag racer created by dealers using the Central Office Production Order system to equip cars with Chevrolet’s largest V-8.

The COPO 572 uses a cast-iron block with four-bolt main caps, aluminum heads, a forged steel crankshaft, forged steel connecting rods and forged aluminum pistons. Pricing for the COPO Camaro with the 572 starts from $105,500 (excluding tax, title, license, and dealer fees).

The 2022 COPO Camaro is also available with LSX-based Small Block engines – a supercharged 350-cubic-inch V-8 rated by the NHRA at 580 horsepower and a naturally aspirated 427-cubic-inch V-8 with an NHRA-rated 470 hp. All 2022 COPO Camaros use an ATI Racing Products TH400 three-speed automatic transmission.

Engineered for drag racers, the COPO Camaro is sold as a Chevrolet Performance part and cannot be registered for street use. It competes in NHRA Stock and Super Stock eliminators and comes standard with a carbon fiber hood and wheelie bars. Buyers can customize their cars with options such as a trunk-mounted weight box and parachute.

Owning a COPO Camaro places drag racers in rare company – Chevrolet has built fewer than 700 examples since the program restarted in 2012. In past years, interested customers have entered a lottery to win an allotment for one of 69 cars. Chevrolet will not limit production for 2022, and orders will be filled on a first come, first served basis. Buyers may also participate in a private tour of the COPO Build Facility in Oxford, Michigan, where each car is custom made.

2022 Chevrolet COPO Camaro rendering

Long-Awaited, Nissan Z Makes Its Debut

Ghaith Madadha
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Long-Awaited, Nissan Z Makes Its Debut

– Press Release –

2023 Nissan Z: One letter says it all. Again.

18 August 2021, Dubai, UAE – Introducing the 2023 Nissan Z. Developed by a passionate team of designers and engineers, the all-new Z represents an approachable sports car for the modern age – with an unmatched 50-plus year heritage and global fan base.

“Z is the pure expression of thrill. It is Nissan’s passion wrapped up on four wheels,” said Ashwani Gupta, representative executive officer and chief operating officer, Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. “The new Z retains its authenticity as a pure sports car to keep you connected to the road while bringing in the latest modern technologies to make sure the car can help keep you connected to your life.”

The all-new, seventh-generation 2023 Z, which drops its numerical prefix in the U.S. for the first time, is scheduled to go on sale at Nissan dealers nationwide in spring 2022.

The new Z: An exhilarating, dynamic performer

The original 240Z was built to bring the joy and excitement of sports car ownership to as many people as possible – a car built for enthusiasts, by enthusiasts. That spirit and heritage continues today with the launch of the latest reincarnation of Z.

The 2023 Z’s 3.0-liter V6 twin turbo engine adds a significant bump in power output over the previous generation 370Z. The engine is rated at 400 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and 475 Nm of torque starting from 1,600 to 5,600 rpm. With an increase of 68 horsepower and a 30 percent increase in torque, the engine is designed to deliver a sharp, yet smooth response to the driver’s input, along with an estimated 15 percent improvement in 0 to 100 kph acceleration.

“Simply put, our goal is to make this the best Z yet, period. With each generation, we raise the bar, pushing the limits of Z and continuing to tap into the human instinct for that next thrilling journey,” said Hiroshi Tamura, chief product specialist of the new Z. “More than just powerful and agile, the 2023 Z is designed to be one with the driver for all kinds of on-road adventures.”

To achieve the marked increase in horsepower and torque, and to deliver sharp response, small-diameter turbochargers were adopted, as well as a turbo speed sensor to ensure the capabilities of the turbos are fully utilized (max spooling speed). The twin turbos balance power output and response time, while the use of an electronic variable valve timing (e-VVT) intake valve system ensures optimum response, adjusting the intake valve timing on-the-fly to achieve excellent response and fuel efficiency in a variety of driving scenes.

One of the defining traits of Z has always been its bond between the car and the driver – a physical and visceral connection, nonmatter the road ahead. That human-machine bond dominates the new Z, especially in the presence of the standard, 6-speed manual transmission.

The 6-speed close-ratio manual transmission includes an EXEDY high-performance clutch. As a physical touch point between driver and Z, the shifter glides to the next gear, almost instinctively, with minimal effort.

In a first for a rear-wheel drive Nissan vehicle, Z Performance models equipped with a manual transmission include an advanced launch assist control system that helps deliver smooth acceleration from a stopped position. All automatic transmission-equipped models feature the launch control system. Manual transmission-equipped models also feature a carbon-fiber composite drive shaft, with SynchroRev Match added to 6MT Performance models.

An advanced, quick-response 9-speed automatic transmission is also available. The new 9-speed automatic offers a direct and quick response feeling and quick acceleration, thanks to its wide gear ratio spread and standard launch control system. Its satisfying engagement keeps the thrill of Z power and performance in sync with the driver. Aluminum paddle shifters are standard on all 9AT-equipped models, with unique paddle shifters, the same design as found on GT-R, on Performance models.

The engineering team tuned the chassis, cooling, suspension and steering to ensure the driver always feels connected with the car. Getting behind the wheel, the Z feels new and modern, yet still familiar.

When it comes to delivering predictable, responsive handling, the engineering team took a multi-prong approach, especially for high-speed driving and cornering. Enhanced body rigidity, an electronic power steering with rack assist and a strong mechanical feel, and wider front tires (on both Sport and Performance grades) help increase maximum cornering G up to 13 percent.

Both front and rear dampers use a new monotube shock absorber design with a larger diameter than the outgoing 370Z, resulting in an approximately 20 percent reduction in dampening force to help minimize impact shock over uneven surfaces, enhance road-following performance and improve handling stability. The front double-wishbone aluminum suspension features new geometry, including increased caster angle, improving straight line stability. A two-point front strut tower brace is standard. The rear independent multi-link aluminum suspension has also been reconfigured with new settings.

Two drive modes are offered on automatic transmission models, standard and sport. Standard mode is best suited for commuting and long highway drives for a pleasant drive. Sport mode unlocks the Z’s performance potential, offering faster acceleration control, a sports-mode steering algorithm, active sound enhancement and sports-mode vehicle dynamic control setting best matched to take on a spirited run through a winding road. All Z Performance grade models (automatic and manual) utilize a mechanical clutch-type limited-slip differential.

Responsive braking is provided by 4-wheel ventilated disc brakes. Larger sport brakes with red-painted calipers are standard on Performance grade models. The Z Sport grade rides on dark-painted 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels with Yokohama ADVAN Sport high performance tires, while Z Performance grades features 19-inch RAYS super lightweight forged aluminum-alloy mounted with Bridgestone Potenza S007 high performance tires.

2023 Z design – past meets future

The 2023 Z boasts a fresh, sleek exterior design with an appearance that communicates respect to its lineage. Its long hood and short deck are fundamentally Z, with a fresh look that is “love at first sight.” The design theme for the exterior and interior of the new Z was “tradition with modern technology.”

“Inspired by the voices of thousands of Z owners and Z lovers and ignited by internal conversations around the six generations of Z that have come before, we found ourselves gravitating towards the sketches that touched the high points of certain decades while remaining true to our vision of the future,” said Alfonso Albaisa, global head of design at Nissan. “Ultimately, we created a Z that travels between the decades while being completely modern.”

For the exterior, the new Z takes on a traditional rear-wheel-drive sports car design, with a long hood, lower rear stance and a silhouette that pays homage to the first-generation Z. The designers utilized the latest technologies to streamline the design, and incorporated LED lighting to give dimension without unnecessary elements. The LED headlights have two half-circles that take their inspiration from the Japan market-only 240ZG of the 1970s, which fit naturally with the new Z’s identity.

The link to the original Z is most striking when viewing the 2023 Z from the side. The roofline flows from the nose to the squared-off rear to create a distinctive first-generation Z profile, whose rear edge was slightly lower than the front fender height giving the Z its unique posture.

The signature transition from the rear quarter glass to the low-slung position of the rear tail adds to the effect. Door handles are a flush-mounted design and the rear hatch design is ultra-thin, yet with increased rigidity over the previous 370Z design. In the rear, the blister fenders smoothly direct flow air past the horizontal rear panel. The rear combination lamps incorporate modern technology into the design reminiscent of the Z32 (1990-1996) 300ZX, including new 3D signature LED taillights.

The Z Performance grade features a rear spoiler that creates positive pressure where the rear hatch and spoiler meet, mitigating rear lift. The front spoiler takes advantage of knowledge gained through Nissan GT-R development to utilize negative pressure zones.

The new 2023 Z is available in three monotone exterior colors – Black Diamond Metallic, Gun Metallic and Rosewood Metallic. The new Z is also offered with a two-tone exterior, including six colors combined with a Super Black roof: Brilliant Silver, Boulder Gray, new Seiran Blue, new Ikazuchi Yellow, Passion Red TriCoat and Everest White Pearl TriCoat.

Z interior: modern tech with a vintage touch

Designed to fit the driver and passenger like a glove, the 2023 Z cabin seamlessly blends modern technology with vintage Z touches. The center stack takes inspiration from other generations before it, with three analog pod gauges on the instrument panel, 8.0-inch touchscreen audio display in the center and climate control switches near the shifter.

The interior design team also sought advice from professional motorsports legends, such as Nissan Super GT500 driver Tsugio Matsuda, to give the Z an ideal sports car cabin for all driving scenes. This can be seen in the instrumentation, with all vital information found in the 12.3-inch customizable digital meter display and arranged to help the driver grasp it at a glance, such as the redline shift point at the 12 o’clock position.

The 12.3-inch TFT meter display is all-new with three display modes to suit driver preference. “Normal” mode offers a sporty feel with the center area for navigation, audio and vehicle information. “Enhanced” mode pushes the tachometer and speedometer to the edges of the display, giving more space in the center for a larger navigation map and information to be displayed. “Sport” mode prioritizes the tachometer in the center with shift-up light at the top for shift information in the driver’s field of view. The Sport mode also allows for a boost gauge or G meter to be displayed.

The new Z’s center stack uses a three-zone approach, placing three analog pod gauges on the instrument panel (boost, turbo speed, volt) within the driver’s eyesight. Both the manual and automatic shift levers are new, each of them custom-engineered for optimized grip and comfort.

The new, deep-dish steering wheel offers the driver quick access controls without losing its vintage aesthetic.

The design of the seats utilizes know-how from the GT-R’s development to enhance both hold and fit. An expanded use of suede on the seatback suppresses initial lateral shake on the body, creating more comfortable drives, as well as reducing body movement when the vehicle is aggressively cornering.

The 2023 Z Sport grade offers black woven cloth seats with an 8-way manual driver’s seat and 4-way manual passenger seat. The Z Performance grade adds leather-appointed seating surfaces, 4-way power driver’s seat with manual lifter, lumbar and thigh support, 4-way power passenger seat and heated seats.

A full range of convenience features are offered as standard equipment, including Nissan Intelligent Key with Push Button Start, Intelligent Cruise Control, Automatic Temperature Control, auto-dimming rearview mirror, RearView Monitor, two 12-volt power points, two USB points (Type-A and Type-C), and front and rear sonar sensors. The 8.0-inch display audio touchscreen with six speakers includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth Hands-free Phone System, and Streaming Audio via Bluetooth.

The Z Performance grade includes a 9.0-inch touchscreen. Also included is an 8-speaker Bose Audio system with Active Noise Cancellation and Active Sound Enhancement.

Three interior color environments are available – Black, Red and Blue. The special Z Proto Spec edition features yellow accents throughout the cabin, including stitching on the instrument panel. The seats feature layered seat material to create depth and a gradation effect.

Two models, one limited edition

The 2023 Nissan Z will be offered in Sport and Performance grades, each with a choice of a 6-speed manual or new 9-speed automatic transmission.

All models include a range of standard driver assistance and safety technologies, including Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, Blind Spot Warning, Lane Departure Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, High Beam Assist and Intelligent Forward Collision Warning.

In addition to the wide range of standard comfort, convenience and connectivity features on the Sport grade, the Performance grade adds the 8-speaker Bose Audio System, 9.0-inch touchscreen with navigation, mechanical Limited Slip Differential, 19-inch RAYS super lightweight forged aluminum-alloy mounted with Bridgestone Potenza S007 high performance tires, Nissan Sport Brakes, heated side mirrors, aluminum sport pedals, dual exhaust with Performance grade muffler and heated, leather-appointed power seats.

One special edition is available, celebrating the distinctive Z Proto introduced in 2020 – called the Proto Spec. Limited to just 240 units in the U.S., the Proto Spec model includes yellow-colored brake calipers with Z logo, bronze-colored 19-inch RAYS aluminum-alloy wheels, exclusive shift lever knob (6MT only), exclusive Proto Spec leather-appointed seats with yellow accents, exclusive Proto Spec suede + cloth door trim with yellow stitching and special Proto Spec interior stitching.

“The Z is more than a sports car you drive, it is an extension of the driver that moves and responds to the driver’s intentions,” added Gupta. “Whether on an unexplored winding road or your daily commute, the Z brings a smile and awakens the senses.”

BMW 2-Series Coupe Takes A Step In The Right Direction

Ghaith Madadha
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BMW 2-Series Coupe Takes A Step In The Right Direction

– Press Release –

The all-new BMW 2 Series Coupé.

01 August 2021, Munich, Germany – BMW is opening a new chapter in its tradition of super-sporty compact models. In the process it will set a new benchmark for driving pleasure – a brand speciality – at the premium end of this vehicle class. The new BMW 2 Series Coupé embodies sporting prowess in a particularly concentrated form, with a vehicle concept focused squarely on dynamic excellence, an athletic design, powerful engines and sophisticated chassis technology. Its standalone appearance, a six-cylinder in-line petrol engine at the sharp end of the line-up, rear-wheel drive and chassis components carried over from the BMW 4 Series put clear water between the new BMW 2 Series Coupé and the compact BMW 1 Series, while also laying the foundations for performance attributes beyond the reach of any segment rival. The new BMW 2 Series Coupé therefore follows in the tyre tracks of the legendary BMW 02, which 55 years ago lit the fuse for the brand’s recent history of compact and irresistibly sporty two-door models.

As well as noticeable gains in dynamic ability, the new BMW 2 Series Coupé also offers a premium cabin ambience of even greater class, and cutting-edge innovations in the areas of operation and connectivity. The advances made over the predecessor model are also reflected in a much wider range of driver assistance systems. The new BMW 2 Series Coupé will celebrate its world premiere at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in England on 8 July 2021. The compact four-seater will be built at the BMW Group’s San Luis Potosí plant in Mexico. A performance model from BMW M GmbH will top the range at market launch in early 2022. The new BMW M240i xDrive Coupé (fuel consumption combined: 8.8 – 8.1 l/100 km [32.1 – 34.9 mpg imp] in the WLTP cycle; CO2 emissions combined: 200 – 185 g/km in the WLTP cycle) uses its 275 kW/374 hp six-cylinder in-line engine and intelligent all-wheel drive to generate a driving experience of rare emotional richness. Customers can also choose from variants with a four-cylinder petrol or diesel engine, both of which channel their power to the road through the rear wheels.

A vehicle concept with its sights set on sporting prowess. 

The fresh, youthful and extrovert aura of the new BMW 2 Series Coupé is complemented by thoroughly engineered and perfectly balanced driving attributes. Its vehicle concept is geared squarely to offering agile and precisely controllable handling in highly dynamic situations. Compact dimensions, intelligent lightweight design for the body and chassis, an up to 12 per cent increase in static torsional rigidity compared to the predecessor model, almost perfect 50 : 50 weight distribution and optimised aerodynamics create an ideal blueprint for a vehicle character majoring in sporting excellence. The agility, steering precision and cornering dynamics of the new BMW 2 Series Coupé represent a significant step forward from the predecessor model. At the same time, optimised ride comfort and acoustics enhance the car’s abilities both in everyday driving and over long-distance journeys.

Distinctive proportions, athletic forms. 

The exterior dimensions of the new compact sports car provide the ideal starting point for excellent driving dynamics. A vehicle length of 4,537 millimetres and width of 1,838 millimetres represent increases over the measurements for the predecessor model of 105 and 64 millimetres respectively. However, the new car stands 28 millimetres lower, with a vehicle height of 1,390 millimetres. Other factors in the powerful and athletic appearance of the new BMW 2 Series Coupé are its wheelbase, which is now 51 millimetres longer at 2,741 millimetres, and the wide tracks. Track widths of 1,575 millimetres (an increase of 54 millimetres) at the front axle and 1,587 millimetres (an increase of 31 millimetres) at the rear axle (BMW M240i xDrive Coupé: +63 millimetres at the front, +35 millimetres at the rear) are ideal for excellent cornering dynamics.

Powerful proportions set within the classical three-box design of bonnet, passenger compartment and boot embody the dynamic potential of the new 2 Series Coupé. Athletically sculpted surfaces and dynamic lines following the brand’s new design language represent an expression of pure driving pleasure. And exclusive design features underscore the unmistakable vehicle character.

Eye-catching front end: headlights and BMW kidney grille with exclusive design. 

Three-dimensional surfaces, triangular forms and diagonal lines shape the striking front end of the new BMW 2 Series Coupé. Prominently flared wheel arches and a muscular power dome at the centre of the bonnet give a clear indication of the 2 Series Coupé’s dynamic driving characteristics. The BMW kidney grille is horizontal in design and features vertically arranged air flaps at its heart in place of the classical bars. These open electrically when the engine behind the scenes has an increased need for cooling air.

The standard-fitted full-LED headlights are positioned in the outer reaches of the front end and, inspired by the legendary BMW 02 models, have a single unit, circular design. Adaptive LED Headlights with BMW Selective Beam non-dazzling high beam assistant can be specified as an option. These are also available in optional M lights Shadow Line specification with darkened inlays.

Side view with crisp lines; powerful rear. 

A long bonnet, short overhangs and a set-back passenger compartment – whose rear section rests on powerfully flared wheel arches – headline the side view of the new BMW 2 Series Coupé. Large glazed surfaces, a roofline that swoops down dynamically, and the short boot lid culminating in a pronounced spoiler lip are other identifying features of the compact sports model. Crisp lines give the surfaces a defined athletic edge.

Horizontally pronounced surfaces give the powerful rear end its structure. The stylishly darkened rear lights – positioned at the outer extremes of the rear end – have compact contours. Their surfaces are formed by light clusters with three-dimensional sculpting. This provides a particularly classy showcase for the LED technology used in all the light functions.

Bespoke design features for M Sport cars and the BMW M240i xDrive Coupé enhance the feeling of dynamism. And customers can also order model-specific M Performance Parts from the Genuine BMW Accessory range.

Sporting flair and refined premium ambience for the interior.

The driver-focused cockpit design and modern control panel on the centre console accentuate the sporting aura inside the new BMW 2 Series Coupé. The standard fitment of sport seats and a Sport leather steering wheel also feeds into the engaging nature of the driving experience. The taper in the rear section of the roofline, the high centre console and the smoothly blending surface treatment of the instrument panel and door panels create a cocooning feel around the driver and front passenger. And the individual-seat character of the two rear seats allows passengers in the rear to enjoy a sense of sporty driving pleasure as well.

High-quality materials and precise workmanship create a premium ambience above and beyond that of the predecessor model. Dynamic lines bring structure to the door panels and rear trim sections. Interior trim strips in the new Dark Graphite matt variant come as standard. A new design feature comes in the form of trapezoidal accent surfaces above the armrests in the doors. If the optional ambient lighting is specified, their perforated surfaces are stylishly backlit.

The new BMW 2 Series Coupé comes as standard with cloth/Sensatec upholstery. The BMW M240i xDrive Coupé and cars in M Sport specification have Alcantara/Sensatec trim alongside other specific design features such as an M leather steering wheel and cushioned knee pads on the centre console. Options include surfaces in Sensatec perforated and Vernasca leather. Electrically adjustable sport seats (including a memory function on the driver’s side), M Sport seats with integral head restraints, seat heating and steering wheel heating can also be found on the options list.

Standard specification also includes acoustic glazing for the windscreen and three-zone automatic climate control, while ambient lighting and a Harman Kardon surround sound system are among the items on the options list. The likewise optional glass slide/tilt sunroof has a transparent surface that is nearly 20 per cent larger overall than on the outgoing model.

The new BMW 2 Series Coupé’s boot offers load capacity of 390 litres. The height of the loading edge has been reduced by 35 millimetres compared to the predecessor model. And additional versatility is provided by the standard 40 : 20 : 40 split/folding rear seat backrest. A removable trailer tow hitch is also available as an option, with a permissible trailer load of 1,600 kilograms.

Advanced chassis engineering with technology transfer from the BMW 4 Series. 

Exceptionally sophisticated chassis components originally designed for the BMW 4 Series models and adapted specially for the new BMW 2 Series Coupé ensure supreme driveability. The two-joint spring strut front axle and five-link rear axle were designed to minimise weight and optimise rigidity. Standard-fitted lift-related dampers enhance both the sporting ability of the new car and its ride comfort. Depending on the spring travel, these provide extra damping to control body movement when driving over large bumps and inhibit excessive dive. The system reacts to minor imperfections in the road surface, meanwhile, with low damping forces that produce high levels of comfort.

Available as an option, M Sport suspension brings firmer responses for the lift-related dampers and springs and also includes variable sport steering. It provides the basis for the model-specific chassis of the new BMW M240i xDrive Coupé. The flagship 2 Series Coupé variant also comes as standard with an M Sport braking system and an M Sport differential at the rear. In addition, adaptive M suspension with electronically controlled dampers is also included in the selection of optional equipment.

The new BMW 2 Series Coupé is fitted as standard with 17-inch lightalloy wheels. 18-inch M light-alloy wheels with mixed-size tyres are part of M Sport specification. The new BMW M240i xDrive Coupé leaves the factory on 19-inch M light-alloy wheels as standard, and these are likewise fitted with mixed-size tyres. High-performance tyres can also be ordered as an option. The M Performance Parts range includes lightalloy wheel variants in sizes up to 20 inches.

Unparalleled driving pleasure, powered by four and six cylinders.

With a six-cylinder in-line engine crowning its engine line-up, the new BMW 2 Series Coupé will unleash a power source with no comparable rival in its class. The performance characteristics, thirst for revs and smoothness of the 3.0-litre engine in the new BMW M240i xDrive Coupé reinforces its claim to unsurpassed sporting prowess in the premium compact segment. With maximum output of 275 kW/374 hp, it develops 25 kW/34 hp more than the engine in its predecessor. Peak torque is 500 Nm (369 lb-ft) and the new BMW M240i xDrive Coupé accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.3 seconds.

The BMW 220i Coupé (fuel consumption combined: 6.8 – 6.3 litres per 100 kilometres [41.5 – 44.8 mpg imp] in the WLTP cycle; CO2 emissions combined: 155 – 144 grams per kilometre in the WLTP cycle) is powered by a new four-cylinder petrol engine in which an exhaust manifold integrated into the cylinder head further reduces emissions. With maximum output of 135 kW/184 hp and peak torque of 300 Nm (221 lbft), the new BMW 220i Coupé sprints from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 7.5 seconds. A 180 kW/245 hp version of the new four-cylinder petrol engine will be fitted in the BMW 230i Coupé that is set to join the line-up in summer 2022 (model not yet on sale, fuel consumption and CO2 figures not yet available).

Two-stage turbocharging and 48V mild-hybrid technology give the fourcylinder diesel engine in the new BMW 220d Coupé (fuel consumption combined: 5.1 – 4.7 l/100 km [55.4 – 60.1 mpg imp] in the WLTP cycle; CO2 emissions combined: 132 – 122 g/km in the WLTP cycle) a clear advantage over its predecessor in terms of punch and efficiency. The 2.0-litre unit develops maximum output of 140 kW/190 hp and peak torque of 400 Nm (295 lb-ft). The new BMW 220d Coupé sprints from rest to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 6.9 seconds.

All the engines team up as standard with an eight-speed Steptronic transmission. The optional eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission (standard in the BMW M240i xDrive Coupé) boasts even sharper gearshifts. As well as paddles on the steering wheel, it also features Launch Control – which allows the driver to power off the line with optimised traction – and the Sprint function, which can be used to execute quick bursts of speed and overtaking manoeuvres extremely dynamically. The eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission is part of the M Sport package Pro. This option is available for cars with M Sport specification and also brings 19-inch M light-alloy wheels, M Sport brakes, a front spoiler lip and an M rear spoiler.

Significantly broader selection of driver assistance systems. 

The new BMW 2 Series Coupé enhances safety and comfort with a significantly expanded selection of driver assistance systems compared with the predecessor model. Standard equipment includes front-collision warning, Speed Limit Info, Lane Departure Warning and Cruise Control with brake function.

Among the systems available as options are the Driving Assistant with Lane Change Warning, Rear Collision Prevention and rear crossing traffic warning, Active Cruise Control with Stop&Go function (including manual Speed Limit Assist), Park Distance Control, the Reversing Assistant, the Reversing Assist Camera, Surround View and Remote 3D View. New for the BMW 2 Series Coupé are the BMW Head-Up Display – which projects driving-related information onto the windscreen – and the BMW Drive Recorder.

Advanced connectivity and new digital services. 

Both driver and passengers will benefit from the extended possibilities enabled by the inclusion of BMW Operating System 7 in the new BMW 2 Series Coupé as standard. Drivers can take their pick of control interface for the situation at hand: control display touchscreen, proven BMW Controller, multifunction buttons on the steering wheel or voice control. The new BMW 2 Series Coupé also gives customers onboard access to a range of advanced digital services, including the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant, BMW Digital Key, Connected Music and Remote Software Upgrades.

The standard-fitted BMW Live Cockpit comprises the iDrive operating system with 8.8-inch control display and a 5.1-inch colour display in the instrument cluster. The optional BMW Live Cockpit Professional features a fully digital screen grouping. It includes a high-resolution instrument cluster behind the steering wheel with a screen diagonal of 12.3 inches and a 10.25-inch control display.

The optional BMW Live Cockpit Plus and BMW Live Cockpit Professional include BMW Maps. This cloud-based navigation system offers extremely fast and precise calculation of routes and arrival times, realtime traffic data updates at short intervals and the ability to enter any word when searching for destinations. The optional smartphone integration enables the use of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto via the car’s operating system. The Remote Software Upgrades function allows improved vehicle functions and additional digital services to be imported into the car over the air.

Bowler Defender Challenge Hits The Rally Stages

Ghaith Madadha
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Bowler Defender Challenge Hits The Rally Stages

– Press Release –

DEFENDER GOES RALLYING: BOWLER TRANSFORMS
REBORN ICON FOR 2022 CHALLENGE SERIES

  • New Bowler Defender: Competition-prepared Land Rover Defender 90 showcases the very best of Bowler’s motorsport expertise
  • Bowler conversion: Rally revisions include performance upgrades to suspension, modified underbody, fitment of roll cage and unique Bowler wheels
  • Perfect starting point: Builds on Land Rover Defender’s unstoppable capability, robust durability and natural balance
  • Bowler Defender Challenge: New rally competition series announced for 2022, exclusively featuring the all-new Bowler Defender
  • 2022 Challenge: Seven UK-based rounds will feature in the single-series competition with the full support of Bowler

28 July, 2021,  Dubai, United Arab Emirates – Bowler Motors, the off-road performance specialist, has revealed the Land Rover Defender rally car that will compete in its own championship in 2022.

The Bowler Defender Challenge is based on the Land Rover Defender 90 with a 300PS Ingenium 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine. Bowler uses its long experience of competition to transform it into a rally car with a full roll cage, modified underbody, raised suspension, rally-spec 18-inch wheels and column-mounted paddle shifters.

Since going on sale in 2020 the Land Rover Defender has won acclaim from customers and media for its unstoppable capability, engaging drive and overall robustness. The more compact shorter wheelbase Defender 90 proved the perfect starting point for the Bowler conversion.

The rally Defenders are built for their own competition – the Bowler Defender Challenge series – on seven events around the UK in 2022.

Michael van der Sande, Managing Director, Jaguar Land Rover Special Vehicle Operations, said:

“The development of the new Bowler Defender Challenge rally car perfectly illustrates the mutual benefits of Bowler joining Jaguar Land Rover Special Vehicle Operations. Our technical support married to Bowler’s legendary rally expertise has turned the extraordinarily capable Defender into a purposeful competition machine. The Bowler Defender Challenge will prove the Defender’s durability through some of the toughest conditions, while providing an exciting and accessible entry point into all-terrain motorsport for a new generation of Bowler and Land Rover customers.”

Bowler Defender Challenge: the car

Each Bowler Defender Challenge is completely stripped back to install a full FIA-standard roll cage. The front and rear subframes are modified and given additional bracing for a new bespoke performance suspension set-up. Designed in collaboration with Fox, it increases the ride height by 25mm. This purposeful stance is enhanced by new Bowler rally-spec 18-inch wheels.

Bowler’s engineers have provided a suite of electronic components, from fire protection and electrical cut-offs to additional lighting and vehicle control systems – all fully integrated into the existing electrical architecture. Competition race seats are installed and the gear selector is repositioned for the optimal racing position. Bowler-developed column-mounted paddle shifts complete the transition.

During the conversion Bowler subtly modify and stiffen the already extraordinarily rigid Defender bodyshell to cope with the extreme conditions of off-road competition.

The standard doors are trimmed to remove the sill covering section, which allows the fitment of full-length, side-to-side underbody protection panels. A modified front end increases airflow to the cooling system and houses additional race-level lighting, while a new roof spoiler houses additional rear lighting.

Bowler Defender Challenge: the competition

The 2022 Challenge will run over seven UK-based rounds, with dates and locations to be announced later in the year. There are 12 entries available for the one-make series, with each team competing in identical Bowler-prepared Defenders. The series is open to veteran competitors and those with no competition experience.

For those with limited experience or none, Bowler can offer training and support to gain the necessary licence before moving directly to the series. The Challenge has been an ideal platform on which to gain motorsport know-how before joining other Bowlers and competing in rally-raid events across the globe.

For 2022 and beyond, the Challenge will continue to focus on delivering a fun environment that fosters the development of driving and competition skills yet retains the involving, engaging feel of a real motorsport family.

The competition calendar covers the UK and each Bowler Defender Challenge-equipped team will face a true mix of rally conditions. For each round there will be a full Bowler support team, with dedicated service areas. A hospitality area will help drivers and teams make the most of downtime and attend briefings throughout the events. The Challenge will enjoy full coverage through national and Bowler media channels.

Bowler’s own Bowler Defender Challenge car will make its public debut at the Iceland Hill Rally 400km stage rally on 6-8 August.

Calum Mckechnie, Bowler General Manager, said:

“The previous Defender Challenge powered by Bowler Motorsport was an incredible success. So we are delighted to announce the new Bowler Defender Challenge, launch the series and provide this amazing opportunity to experience Bowler in its natural environment. Using the team’s unique skills, knowledge and experience, developed over years of challenge and rally raid competition, has resulted in a formidable competition vehicle that will be exciting and rewarding to drive.”

Packages for the 2022 Challenge will start at £99,500 which includes a Bowler-prepared Defender Challenge car, entry into the 2022 series, which starts in March, and event support. Further options include training, series logistics and vehicle support. A range of accessories developed as part of this programme will be available later in the year.

Updated Nissan Kicks Arrives In Mideast Markets

Ghaith Madadha
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Updated Nissan Kicks Arrives In Mideast Markets

– Press Releasre –

Nissan takes self-expression to the next level with the regional launch of the New 2021 Nissan KICKS

  • Highly customizable crossover features energetic new exterior styling and color options, refined interior, and enhanced connectivity
  • New 2021 edition set to sustain KICKS’ success in the region, following an 11% year-on-year increase within its segment market share
  • Crossover SUV gets a technology boost with Nissan Intelligent Mobility upgrades to provide enhanced safety and peace of mind

25  July 2021, DUBAI, UAE – Nissan has announced the launch of the 2021 Nissan KICKS in the Middle East, refreshed with style and technology upgrades designed to meet the growing needs of urban customers in the region. Placing a large focus on enhancing connectivity, innovation and personalization, the 2021 Nissan KICKS allows drivers to further express their personal style as they cut through the city with precise handling and available advanced driver assist features.

Since its introduction to the region in 2017 as the entry model to Nissan’s lineup of crossovers and SUVs, KICKS has attracted young, enthusiastic drivers to the brand. It quickly established a reputation for offering an impressive array of class-leading features with equally attractive value – even securing 11% year-on-year market share increase in the SUV-B segment during fiscal year 2020 (April 2020 – March 2021).

Maintaining that momentum, the 2021 Nissan KICKS has been refreshed with updates to provide even more features, technology, customized style and value that buyers seek in a compact crossover. The exterior sees an aesthetic upgrade with the integration of Nissan’s Double V-motion grille, new front and rear bumpers and an array of bold new colors, including new two-tone combinations. The updated interior features a new center console, new seating and trim materials, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility and BOSE headrest speakers.

The 2021 Nissan KICKS also includes a number of Nissan Intelligent Mobility (NIM) technology upgrades such as Intelligent Around View Monitor, as well as Forward Collision Warning, Automatic Emergency Braking, Blind Spot Warning and Rear Cross Traffic Alert. All of these class-leading features are complemented by upgraded chassis control to provide superior ride comfort and control.

Thierry Sabbagh, Managing Director, Nissan Middle East said: “The Nissan KICKS has always had a finger on the pulse of the young urban commuter, combining style and technology with a value for money that has made it a fast favorite in the region. The 2021 Nissan KICKS dials up both connectivity and customization while infusing it with the latest Nissan Intelligent Mobility technology – making this an even more formidable model within the SUV-B segment.”

“The popularity of KICKS is reflective of the increasing customer demand for crossover SUVs, as they seek space and versatility akin to SUVs, with the size and practicality of a sedan. These expectations, coupled with growing desire amongst younger drivers to always stay connected, have helped us create a refreshed 2021 Nissan KICKS – and we are excited to see our customers across the region take this nimble model out on the streets,” he continued.

New exterior design makes a bold first impression

While maintaining KICKS’ compact urban crossover dimensions – with its large interior space and nimble, city-sized exterior for easy maneuverability – the extensive exterior changes immediately set KICKS apart from the competition. The redesigned 2021 Nissan KICKS is available in three well-equipped trims – KICKS S, KICKS SV and KICKS SL.

Starting with a bold front end, the new KIKCS features a more aggressive bumper that blends with the new “Double V- motion” grille, giving the SUV a more powerful SUV look. New LED headlights offer a high-tech, modern and premium effect, which is even further enhanced on the SL grade’s super-thin LED multi-reflector design. Meanwhile, both SV and SL grades include standard LED fog lights.

A stylish rear end begins with a new bumper and back door finisher and LED combination light that stretches from side to side, adding a strong horizontal line that emphasizes KICKS’ wide rear structure. Like in front, the redesigned rear bumper imparts a sense of more “lifted” volume and a premium feel.

The 2021 KICKS continues with its floating roof with a wrap-around visor look to the windscreen and side glass. The wide C-pillar appears hidden, with a black finish that blends into the tailgate glass and still allows excellent outward visibility for all.

Standard exterior features include Intelligent Auto Headlights with adjustable sensitivity and timing, along with rear wiper and available roof rails, heated outside mirrors with integrated turn signals and rear roof spoiler.

Color is a hallmark of the Nissan KICKS, and it continues to be available in a range of vibrant hues. For 2021, the energetic, premium palette includes three new colors: Electric Blue Metallic, Scarlet Ember Tintcoat (premium color) and Boulder Gray Pearl. Also available are Gun Metallic, Super Black, Aspen White TriCoat (premium color), Power White and Brilliant Silver.

Five two-tone paint combinations are also available, including three new options – Super Black Roof/Scarlet Ember Tintcoat, Super Black Roof/Electric Blue Metallic and Super Black Roof/Boulder Gray Pearl. Also offered are Super Black/Aspen White TriCoat and Super Black/Monarch Orange Metallic.

Smart, stylish redesigned interior

The 2021 KICKS interior also has a new stylish and premium feel, highlighted by the SL grades’ new seat color and door trim design and full center console with an armrest.

The versatile interior offers a sporting flavor – provided by a D-shaped steering wheel, comfortable 6-way driver’s seat, 4-way adjustable front passenger seat and 60/40-split fold-down rear seat.

As in previous years, the 2021 KICKS provides ample passenger space throughout the cabin, including best-in-class front seat legroom.

For peace of mind, standard on all KICKS is Nissan Safety Shield 360, which includes Automatic Emergency Braking, Lane Departure Warning, radar-based Blind Spot Warning, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert. Among the other on-board technologies, KICKS features an available Intelligent Around View Monitor, which provides a virtual composite 360-degree bird’s-eye view of the KICKS’ exterior.

For the ultimate audio experience, the KICKS SL Premium Package includes the class- exclusive Bose Speakers, which uses eight speakers and proprietary Bose signal processing to provide what Bose calls “360 degrees of immersive sound.” Key to its dynamic sound is a pair of lightweight 2.5-inch Bose UltraNearfield™ neodymium speakers located inside the KICKS’ driver’s seat head restraint.

A Bose PersonalSpace Control feature is built into the infotainment system’s audio settings, providing adjustable listening options from front-focused sound to a wider, more enveloping experience. The system also includes a digital amplifier with six channels of custom equalization and digital system processing.

To always keep drivers connected, the 2021 Nissan KICKS now offers standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on SV & SL grades.

A crossover for the adventurous

Every 2021 KICKS comes with a standard 1.6-liter DOHC 16-valve 4-cylinder engine with Continuous Variable Valve Timing Control System. The engine is rated at 118 horsepower and 155 Newton Meters of torque, and is paired with a smooth, Xtronic transmission powering the front wheels.

KICKS offers a standard Traction Control System, Vehicle Dynamic Control and Hill Start Assist, front disc/rear drum Anti-lock Braking System (S grade) and electric power steering. KICKS SV and SL grades add new rear disc brakes.

New for 2021 as standard on SL grade, is an electronic parking brake with auto hold, which can ease driver workload in certain situations. KICKS also includes an Integrated Dynamic-Control Module, featuring Active Engine Brake, Intelligent Trace Control and Intelligent Ride Control, to help provide a higher level of driving enjoyment.

Nimble handling is provided by a front independent strut, stabilizer bar suspension matched with rear suspension featuring twist beam and twin-tube shock absorbers. KICKS S grade comes with 16-inch Alloy wheels mounted with 205/60R16 all-season tires. KICKS SV and SL grades are equipped with 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels with 205/55R17 all-season tires.

KICKS is also equipped with a total of 10 airbags. Intelligent Driver Alertness and Rear Door Alert are standard on SL grade.

The 2021 Nissan KICKS is available at dealerships across the Middle East[1], with prices starting from AED 61,900, inclusive of VAT. Prices vary per market.

[1] Middle East markets under Nissan Middle East cover UAE, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, Oman, Lebanon, and Jordan.

 

Aston Martin Valhalla Marks A Pivotal Moment

Ghaith Madadha
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0
Aston Martin Valhalla Marks A Pivotal Moment

– Press Release –

VALHALLA: SENSATIONAL HYBRID SUPERCAR DEFINES THE MASTERY OF DRIVING

  • Valhalla concept evolved into a truly driver focused, production reality supercar
  • Intense performance combined with pinpoint dynamics for unprecedented driver involvement and driving experience
  • New 950PS Hybrid powertrain mates bespoke 750PS twin turbo V8 ICE with twin E-Motors
  • All-new 8-speed Dual Clutch Transmission equipped with e-reverse and e-diff
  • Active aerodynamics produce 600kg of downforce for a sub-6:30 Nürburgring lap time target

15 July 2021, Gaydon, Warwickshire, UK – Aston Martin’s transformational journey takes a huge step forwards with the Valhalla concept car brought to production reality as an extraordinary, truly driver-focused mid-engined hybrid supercar.

Led by Aston Martin’s CEO, Tobias Moers, Valhalla is the latest and most significant product of the brand’s Project Horizon strategy to-date; a car which will broaden the model portfolio to reflect Aston Martin’s presence in Formula One, set best-in-class standards for performance, dynamics and driving pleasure, and drive the transition from internal combustion to hybrid to full electric powertrains.

Aston Martin’s Executive Chairman, Lawrence Stroll said: “Aston Martin’s first series production mid-engined supercar, Valhalla is a truly transformational moment for this ultra-luxury brand. The launch of Valhalla demonstrates Aston Martin’s commitment to building a range of exceptional mid-engined driver focused cars, a crucial next stage in the expansion of our product line-up. It also seemed fitting to unveil this stunning track biased supercar at the home of motorsport and the home of the Aston Martin Cognizant Formula One Team and marks Aston Martin’s return to the British Grand Prix for the first time in over 60 years, a true milestone.”

Built with chassis, aerodynamic and electronics expertise forged in Formula One, and a cutting-edge hybrid powertrain technology at its heart, Valhalla is a formidable technological showcase. Yet far from engineering the driver out of the loop, Valhalla’s sole focus is immersing them in a new kind of supercar driving experience. One which brings unprecedented excitement, enjoyment, and driver engagement to the top of the supercar sector.

With pinpoint handling, prodigious levels of downforce and a breathtaking blend of instant battery-electric torque and the intensity of a scintillating V8 engine, Valhalla’s fusion of raw emotion and hybrid efficiency reflects a new era. One defined by a shift in attitudes and expectations that demands contemporary supercars are not just sensational to look at and thrilling to drive, but that they truly reflect the technology employed in the highest level of motorsport. As such Valhalla is at the forefront; an authentic, next generation Aston Martin road racer, designed around the driver, for the driver and built to be enjoyed.

Valhalla heralds a new definition of Aston Martin. With a mid-engined 950bhp gasoline/battery electric powertrain, new carbon fibre structure and aerodynamics shaped by the pioneering philosophy first seen in the revolutionary Aston Martin Valkyrie, Valhalla will bring the perfect balance of hypercar performance and advanced powertrain, driving dynamics and uniquely sophisticated design materials to truly redefine the supercar sector.

For a true engineer like Moers, Valhalla marks the moment where Aston Martin delivers on earlier promises, he says: “Preserving the essence of an exceptional concept car is vital when meeting the challenge of bringing it into production. With Valhalla not only have we stayed true to our commitment to build a world-beating supercar, but we have exceeded our original aims. The result is a pure driving machine – one which exists right at the cutting edge of performance and technology yet allows the driver to feel the emotion and thrill of complete connection and control.”

At the beating heart of Valhalla is its all-new PHEV powertrain, which features three motors; foremost of these is a rear-mid-mounted 4.0 litre twin-turbo bespoke V8 engine. The most advanced, responsive and highest performing V8 engine ever fitted to an Aston Martin, it features a flat-plane crankshaft for increased responsiveness. Revving to 7200rpm and developing 750PS, it sends drive exclusively to the rear axle. Exhaling through a lightweight exhaust system with active flaps for an adjustable and authentic Aston Martin sound character it also features top-exit tailpipes to maximise visual and aural drama.

Supplementing this new V8 engine is a 150kW/400V battery hybrid system utilising a pair of E-Motors; one mounted on the front axle and the other on the rear axle. The electric system contributes a further 204PS for a headline combined power output of 950PS. When driven in EV mode battery power is directed exclusively to the front axle. In other driving modes battery power is split between front and rear axles, the percentage sent to each axle constantly varies according to driving demands. In certain situations, 100% of battery power can be sent to the rear axle, supplementing the full force of the ICE V8 for maximum performance.

Completing the powertrain is an all-new 8-speed DCT transmission. Exclusively designed and built for Aston Martin, this new paddle-shift gearbox has been developed specifically for the hybrid era. Featuring e-reverse (which utilises the PHEV’s electric motors and thereby saves weight by negating the need for a conventional reverse gear) the transmission also features an Electronic Limited-Slip Differential (E-Diff) on the rear axle for maximum traction and handling agility.

Electrical power is also used to enhance low speed control and response as well as provide reversing capability. And, thanks to the instantaneous torque from the E-Motors, the hybrid system augments the V8 engine to deliver sensational standing start acceleration and in-gear response. Outright performance is further aided by the E-Motor and V8 ICE being able to run different gears in the DCT simultaneously, which enables a maximum torque delivery of 1000Nm.

Running in EV-only mode, Valhalla will be capable of a maximum 80mph / 130km/h and has a zero-emission range of 15km. Predicted CO2 (WLTP) is less than 200g/km. Unleashing all 950PS the Valhalla will reach a top speed of 217mph / 330km/h and will complete the sprint from 0-62mph in just 2.5 seconds. In terms of outright track capability, a stunning 6:30 Nürburgring Nordschleife lap time is being targeted.

Ralph Illenberger, Head of Powertrain Engineering said: “Valhalla is our first opportunity to really show what we are capable of in a true production sense.  We have created our own bespoke air-to-air charge-cooled, flat-plane crank V8 engine and have combined it with a powerful hybrid system. And, of course, we also have our own bespoke Dual Clutch Transmission – a first for Aston Martin and an essential component both for Valhalla and future Aston Martin models. The result is a truly world-class powertrain for an efficient, ultra-performing supercar.”

In terms of its structure, Valhalla is built around a new a carbon fibre tub for maximum stiffness with minimum weight penalty. Featuring Formula One style push rod front suspension complete with inboard mounted springs and dampers reducing unsprung mass and provides a brilliant packaging solution. Together with the rear-end’s multilink design, Valhalla uses Multimatic Variable Spring rate and Adaptive Spool Valve (ASV) Damper units providing adjustable ride frequency for exceptional performance on road and track. In addition to stiffer suspension, Track mode sees ride height dramatically reduced in order to maximise downforce. At the other end of the speed scale, a front axle lift system raises the nose for improved approach angle on awkward inclines.

The carbon tub’s inherent rigidity means suspension loadings can be controlled with absolute precision and every minute input to the electric power-assisted steering faithfully translated into an immediate and intuitive direction change. High performance Carbon Ceramic Matrix brakes (complete with brake-by-wire technology) guarantee exceptional stopping power, and bespoke Michelin tyres (20in front, 21in rear) developed specifically for Valhalla provide a final and all-important layer of excellence. This intimate, uncorrupted connection between driver and car sits at the core of the Valhalla experience, with advanced materials and electronics serving only to enhance the driver’s enjoyment, confidence and sense of complete control.

With a target dry weight of less than 1550kg Valhalla will have an unrivalled power-to-weight ratio compared to its class rivals. Weight of a different kind – that generated by aerodynamic downforce – also plays its part in Valhalla’s unmatched dynamic capabilities. Benefitting from a flow-down of the Aston Martin Valkyrie hypercar’s Formula One inspired aerodynamic philosophy, Valhalla employs a combination of active aerodynamic surfaces – specifically the front surfaces and rear wing – and masterful management of underbody airflow through dramatic venturi tunnels. At 150mph Valhalla’s meticulously sculpted aerodynamic surfaces generate an impressive 600kg of downforce, enough for mighty high-speed cornering ability and unshakable stability.

The pursuit of downforce demands uncompromising functionality, but expertly working the airflow beneath the car has left Aston Martin’s design team with a clean upper body surface with which they have created a memorable mid-engined shape that is original yet unmistakably Aston Martin. Uncorrupted by the need for aggressive wings that jut into the airstream, Valhalla’s predominantly carbon fibre body blends function and beauty in a manner that befits a new generation of mid-engined supercar. Spectacular forward-hinged dihedral doors bring drama to the beginning and end of every journey, while cut-outs in the roof ease ingress and egress. A distinctive roof scoop feeds air directly into the V8 engine’s intakes, with additional side and rear intakes and vents integrated smoothly into the overall body design.

Valhalla, the luxury brands first series production mid-engined supercar will be available in both left-hand and right-hand drive, expanding its appeal across international markets. Cockpit room has been increased compared to the Aston Martin Valkyrie, though many Formula One inspired hallmarks remain, such as a pared back cockpit design with clear, simple ergonomics unashamedly focussed around the driver. An innovative new Aston Martin HMI system features a central touchscreen display and incorporates Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Adjustable pedals and steering column enable the seat bases to be fixed to the chassis structure. The footwells are also raised for a low hip-to-heel seating position redolent of a Formula One car.

For Aston Martin’s Chief Creative Officer, Marek Reichman, Valhalla is an opportunity for the Aston Martin design team to express extreme performance with fresh form and proportion, and to capture the brand’s bold future-forward approach: “When we created the Valhalla concept we were keen to emphasise the design legacy of the Aston Martin Valkyrie and that intent remains unchanged, but the execution has evolved considerably in order to reach production of this all-new car. Though the legacy of Valkyrie is clear, Valhalla is now a more mature, fully resolved piece of design. One which combines the pure aerodynamic function you would expect from a marque competing in Formula One together with the beautiful form, striking proportions and exemplary detailing for which Aston Martin is renowned.”

Full LED Matrix headlights with adaptive functionality and high-beam assist deliver excellent forward vision in the dark, and Dual Zone Air Conditioning provides high level of occupant comfort.  In order to comply with the latest regulatory requirements, Valhalla also incorporates the latest Advanced Driver Assistance Systems. These include Auto Emergency Braking, Forward Collision Warning, Active Cruise Control, Blind Spot Monitoring and Rear View Parking Camera (with Surround View option).

Dynamic development of the Valhalla will be the task of Aston Martin’s award-winning dynamics team and complemented with an enviable pool of talent which also includes Aston Martin Cognizant Formula One Team drivers Sebastian Vettel, Lance Stroll and Nico Hulkenburg. They will give their invaluable perspective to the project and bring added authenticity to a car which boasts such a clear connection to Aston Martin’s Grand Prix machines.

Valhalla is a new generation Aston Martin, it defines a new driver and driving experience – ‘the Mastery of Driving’, a true ultra-luxury, exclusive, British supercar.

Hyundai Elantra N Enters The Junior Sport Saloon Segment

Ghaith Madadha
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Hyundai Elantra N Enters The Junior Sport Saloon Segment

– Press Release –

Hyundai Motor’s Elantra N Debuts, Delivers Highest Level of N Performance Yet

  • Hot sedan brings the best of both worlds, ‘high-performance’ and ‘practicality’
  • 2.0L turbo flat power engine and 8-speed wet DCT delivers 280 horsepower (ps), 40 kgf·m of torque for a top speed of 250 km/h, 0-100 km/h in 5.3 seconds
  • Advanced infotainment system with N-only UX provides a new concept circuit driving experience
  • Dynamic driving capability is complemented by functional design that includes side skirt, wing-type spoiler, diffuser, etc., for enhanced aerodynamic performance
  • Elantra N with numerous enhancements is the best option for driving enthusiasts

14 July 14 2021, Seoul, Korea – Hyundai Motor Company’s high-performance N brand today unveiled its Elantra N (sold as Avante N in Korea) in a digital world premiere. The hot sedan completes the N brand lineup of ‘everyday sports cars.’

Elantra N is a high-performance variant of the All New Elantra, released in April 2020. It adds strong, dynamic driving capability and aggressive design elements on top of the sporty standard model.

In a video released today, Hyundai Motor’s N brand provides details of over 40 N elements applied to Elantra N through a story about a boy falling in love with cars, and visually reveals the excellence of this everyday sports car, which has been tuned precisely to enhance driving performance.

At the end of the video, N brand teases that it will participate in another endurance race with a car that combines a hydrogen fuel cell and an electric battery.

“Pairing hydrogen and battery power could open up very interesting future options for Hyundai in motorsports and beyond,” said Thomas Schemera, Executive Vice President and Head of Customer Experience Division at Hyundai Motor Company. “Hydrogen can be used as a range extender or a power booster. We have the technology available and I am quite confident that we will make this happen.”

First high-performance N sedan takes driving enthusiasts from street to circuit

Elantra N is powered by a 2.0-liter turbo flat power engine with a 52-mm turbine wheel, which is 5 mm larger in diameter than before, and a 12.5-mm2 turbine passage with an area increased by 2.5 mm2. These enhancements, along with the optimization of the shape and material of the cylinder lock, improve both the performance and durability of the engine. As a result, the flat power technology maintains the maximum output from about 5,500 rpm for brisk acceleration.

Elantra N’s flat power engine is mated with an 8-speed wet dual clutch transmission (DCT), delivering maximum output of 280 horsepower (ps) and maximum torque of 40 kgf·m. With N Grin Shift (NGS), the boost pressure increases, temporarily enhancing output up to 290 ps. As a result, Elantra N achieves a top speed of 250 km/h and runs 0-100 km/h in just 5.3 seconds.

Elantra N’s spirited performance is further supported by N Corner Carving Differential (e-LSD, electronic Limited Slip Differential), Variable Exhaust Valve System and Launch Control—all of which are specialized, high-performance features that are applied as standard. For DCT models, N Grin Shift (NGS), N Power Shift (NPS) and N Track Sense Shift (NTS) are provided as standard features to maximize driving pleasure.

To shine in the corners, Elantra N provides robust braking performance. The 360-mm brake discs are equipped with high-friction material pads to ensure best-in-class braking performance for high-performance vehicles. Furthermore, a cooling hole is applied to the dust cover along with a brake air guide structure to improve cooling efficiency and the area is also optimized to vent heat from braking friction. Attention has been paid to every detail so that consistent braking force can be maintained even in harsh driving conditions.

In Elantra N, there are features implemented for the first time in an N model that also stand out.

For the first time ever in a Hyundai, Elantra N applies an integrated drive axle (IDA), inspired by technology used in WRC rally cars. By integrating drive shaft, wheel hub and bearing, weight reduction of 1.7 kg enables a ‘lighter and stronger’ car. This is also beneficial in terms of withstanding extreme lateral g-force.

By integrating the intake duct and air cleaner in the intake compartment, Elantra N’s engine response is sharpened while the intake system’s weight is reduced, and suction pressure reduced by about 10 percent or more. The shape of the powertrain mount is optimized to improve integration of movement between the powertrain and the body while driving and increase handling responsiveness.

In addition, Hyundai Motor applied for the first time a dual compound insulator to the front suspension. This, together with the dual compound trailing arm bush achieves optimal performance in ride and handling as well as noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) by separating front/rear and left/right characteristics.

Elantra N applies four-point strut rings and rear stiff bars to strengthen body rigidity. Torque feedback R-MDPS is applied to provide a consistent steering feel even when the external environment changes, such as temperature.

These high-performance technologies developed through N have been applied to general mass-produced vehicles and are expected to lead to improvement in the overall performance of the product lineup in the future.

Elantra N adds a special feature for driving pleasure. N Sound Equalizer (NSE) is a virtual engine sound that not only provides driving sounds that represent Hyundai Motorsports, such as TCR race car sounds, but also has an equalizer function that allows the driver to adjust details for each range (whine, throat, bass), with consideration for personal preference. This allows the driver to hear a more realistic and dynamic engine sound while driving.

In addition, the variable exhaust valve system, which delivers N’s distinctive ‘popcorn’ and ‘bang’ sounds, now uses a linear control method to reduce the booming sound during idling while maintaining the distinctive N exhaust note for the driver’s enjoyment.

Lastly, Elantra N is the first N vehicle to use 245-size Michelin PS4S tires on 19-inch wheels in support of dynamic driving performance.

High-performance N-only infotainment system provides new circuit driving experience

Elantra N’s advanced infotainment system is equipped with a graphic interface dedicated to N, so driving enthusiasts can intuitively enjoy the car’s dynamic performance.

Information needed for high-performance circuit driving, such as oil and coolant temperatures, torque and turbo pressure, which are difficult to check in most cars, is displayed in numbers on the cluster so that the driver can feel more engaged with Elantra N’s performance.

In addition, the lap timer, a high-performance dedicated infotainment function, measures the time it takes to drive a lap on the racetrack and the ‘N Track Map’ records the driver’s location and movement on the circuit in real time. This allows the driver to record their performance without the need for additional specialized equipment and helps them analyze and improve on their performance.

In Korea, Hyundai Motor also is releasing the ‘Hyundai N’ app for high-performance N customers. The app allows users who join the Bluelink (connected car service) to conveniently browse the high-performance infotainment functions of the Elantra N on personal smartphones and tablets. By providing analysis functions based on G-Force, RPM, torque output and lap time, it helps drivers to improve their driving skills in an easy, fun way.

Hyundai Motor plans to expand the function of the Hyundai N app so that it can be used not only by customers who purchase Elantra N with Bluelink, but also by customers who have an existing N vehicle.

In addition, it is expected that more customers with high-performance N models will be able to enjoy racetrack driving as if it were a game by applying a ranking system for each circuit in Korea that allows comparison of an N customer’s records with those of others.

Strong, dynamic driving sensibility harmonizes with sporty character

Building on the already sporty styling of the All New Elantra, Elantra N adds many performance-enhancing parts that further maximize its dynamic driving capability and aggressive appearance.

Elantra N’s front fascia takes inspiration from the battle-ready appearance of a driver’s race helmet, and the lip spoiler that runs low across the lower part of the bumper conveys a low-slung stance with performance intent.

The N-exclusive red strip at the bottom of the front bumper continues along Elantra N’s side skirts, giving the hot sedan a racetrack-ready look.

The prominent, N-only wing-type spoiler, along with rear diffuser, help control airflow to support optimal aerodynamic performance, further highlighting Elantra N’s high-performance capability and adding to its aggressive styling.

In addition, an inverted triangle type N-only reflector and dual single muffler tip, reminiscent of a Formula One car, neatly finish Elantra N’s high-performance image.

The N-specific interior neatly conveys the N family look with the application of N-branded elements, including the steering wheel, shifter, seats, door scuff panels and metal pedals, etc.

On the steering wheel with paddle shifters, the NGS button (DCT only) that raises horsepower by 10 ps for up to 20 seconds and two N buttons that set the desired drive mode are arranged to suit the driver’s preference. Driving modes can be customized and matched to each button in various combinations to maximize Elantra N’s fun driving spirit.

The N seat has reinforced bolsters, so that even if strong lateral acceleration occurs during sharp cornering, it firmly supports the upper and lower body to maintain a stable driving posture at all times. In addition, an optional N bucket seat with N emblem lighting has a position that is lower by 10 mm compared to the basic specification, designed for customers who pursue high-performance drivability.

The N light bucket seat reduces the seat back thickness by 50 mm compared to the base model, further highlighting best-in-class rear seat roominess and practicality.

“Hyundai Motor’s high-performance N brand constantly aims to provide customers with a range of exciting choices for increased driving pleasure,” said Till Wartenberg, Vice President and Head of N Brand Management & Motorsport sub-dvision at Hyundai Motor Company. “Elantra N is the purest expression of our mission to date.”

Elantra N Specifications

Specifications Elantra N
Full Length
(mm)		 4,675
Full Width
(mm)		 1,825
Full Height
(mm)		 1,415
Wheelbase
(mm)		 2,720
Engine Form 2.0T-GDI
Displacement
(cc)		 1,998
Maximum Output
(ps)		 280
Maximum Torque
(kgf·m)		 40.0

Improved points on Elantra N

Category Code Description
Brake AG

Air Guide

 The air guide, originated from motorsports, improves braking performance by allowing air to flow directly towards the brake to cool off the heat generated from braking.
DCH

Dust Cover cooling Hole

 Even the smallest detail has been modified to improve braking performance. The size of dust cover has been minimized and holes have been added to cool the braking disk from the guided airflow.
LBD

Larger Brake Disc

 Increased disc size of 360mm enhances heat endurance capacity and braking performance. With a wider tire, ELANTRA N’s braking performance places at the top of its class. With ELANTRA N, you can go on track from day 1.
HBP

High friction Brake Pad

 High friction coefficient material brake pads reduces fade and maximize bite when breaking at high speed. This shortens breaking distance, which is the shortest among its competitors.
PF

Pre-Fill

 Pre-fill braking logic increases braking responsiveness by filling the brake hydraulic pressure in advance when sudden braking is expected.
CO

Creep Off

 Drivers can select between ‘Creep On’ and ‘Creep Off’. When set to ‘Creep Off’, no additionary braking is required when the car is stationary on the grid which allows faster acceleration.
LB

Left foot Braking

 Left foot braking allows simultaneous brake and excel pedal control. It improves vehicle yaw control. It is activated under the condition of 1. sport + or N mode, 2. ESC off and 3. gear knob on manual, which cancels brake override.
P/T FP

Flat Power

 Flat power prolongs power at high RPM range especially in high speed acceleration. Greater engine response, improved torque and engine power extend maximum power duration, delivering a more powerful driving experience.
NPS

N Power Shift

 As a DCT exclusive feature, NPS enhances acceleration performance by maximizing engine torque during upshift and reduces 0-62mph/0-100kph time by 0.2s. NPS provides a ‘push feel’ during upshift as though shifting the sequential gear of a race car.
NTS

N Track Sense Shift

 Automatically selects optimal gear shift and shift timing when track driving is sensed. This enables drivers to avoid busy gear shifting, like a professional driver.
SPD

Shift Pattern Differentiation

 Shift Pattern differs mode by mode. Among 8 gears, N mode mostly uses 1~6 with shifting at higher RPM, while Normal mode uses all 8 gears. Uphill, downhill, tip-off and cornering specified shift logic prevents uneccesary gear shifting to provide optimal power delivery.
NGS

N Grin Shift

 NGS provides extra 10 horsepower for 20 seconds, boosting to 290 horsepower by temporarily utilizing turbocharger over-boost and maximizing transmission response. Reduced interval time of 40 seconds allows you to push NGS at every lap.
LC

Launch Control

 Launch Control allows driver to enjoy maximum acceleration from standstill with ease by optimizing engine torque and clutch engagement control. Drivers can easily repeat best standstill acceleration. Launch Control reduces 0-62mph/0-100kpm time by 0.3sec.
TO

Turbine Optimization

 Engine performance has been enhanced by increasing the size of turbine wheel from 47mm to 52mm, and expanding the scroll area from 10.0㎟ to 12.5㎟. The durability of the cylinder block has been enhanced by cross drilled treatment to optimize turbine responsiveness.
ETM

Engine TM Mount

 Engine and transmission mount with larger stopper and optimized shape firmly holds on to the powertrain, improving steer responsiveness. Thus, minimizing roll and yaw behavior for optimal performance driving.
REV
Rev Match		 Automatically matches speed of engine and optimizes gear shift. When downshifting, automatic heel-and-toe reduces physical burden of manual shifting and allows faster corner exits.
Chassis /

Body

 TSC

Torque Steer Control

 Torque steer control prevents excessive abnormal rotation of steering wheel caused by disparities in torque between left and right sides of the drive wheel at rapid acceleration. This improves overall driveline alignment.
SSM

Steering Solid Mounting

 R-MDPS system and sub-frame are affixed solidly, improving direct steering feedback. Fast steer and counter-steer are also improved based on this mounting structure.
4BE

4 points underbody Enhancement

 4 points of underbody enhancement strengthen body rigidity and improve ride & handling: 1) Sub-frame front reinforced structure 2) V.Stay 3) Center Tunnel Stay 4) Rear Tunnel Brace.
RSB

Rear Stiff Bar

 H-shape multijointed rear stiff bar increases body rigidity by 29% compared to the base model. Not only does this improve ride & handling, the red color adds to the overall sporty look.
4SR

4 points Strut Ring

 Originated from racing cars, the strut ring has been reinforced with an additional connection point. 4-point strut ring connects the suspension and body tightly, improving ride & handling precision.
IDA

Integrated Drive Axle

 Inspired by WRC rally cars, the drive shaft, wheel hub and bearing have been developed into one integrated drive axle. This is beneficial in terms of withstanding extreme lateral g-force, weight reduction of 1.7kg and noise reduction.
DCB

Dual Compound Bush

 2 types of compound bushes are applied for ride comfort and firm handling, respectively in the vertical and horizontal direction. This is one of the keys factors that make ELANTRA N an ambidextrous performance car.
TFM

Torque Feedback R-MDPS

 Improves steering consistency and precision in any driving condition through the robust torque feedback logic, providing a more precise steering experience when carving corners.
ECS

Electronic Controlled Suspension

 A different range of damping force based on speed, driver input, road condition and driving modes provides better ride and handling performance. This 2nd generation ECS allows the widest range of suspension setting ever, from extreme track situation to going on a family roadtrip.
ELSD

Electronic Limited Slip Differential

 Actively distributes torque between the inner and outer wheels when cornering. This enhances dynamic performance, allows faster corner exits and minimizes understeer by optimizing wheel slip and weight transfer.
NES

N Electronic Stability Control

 N Electronic Stability Control maximizes thrill and fun in corners by providing a ‘rear end sliding’ feeling.
AK

Aluminum Knuckle

 Aluminum knuckle reduces the weight of unsprung mass, providing a more agile ride & handling.
GB

G-Bush

(Lower control arm bush)

 Lower control arm bushes are strengthened to its limit for sharper and precise handling. The most optimal tire and G-bush combination is offered by taking advantage of the extra comfort margin of a wider tire.
DA

Duct-style airguard

 For maximum cooling on the radiator surface, airflow is guided by duct-style airguard. This maximizes speed, improves aerodynamic, fuel-efficiency, and cooling ability in extreme conditions.
Sound RRC

Rear Resonance Control

 Rear Resonance Control provides maximum comfort in the back seat by reducing road booming noise.
UBS

Upshift Bang Sound

 The Upshift Bang Sound is created by controlling fuel flow of the single cylinder and fully opening the variable exhaust valve. This recreates the emotional sound of motorsports.
NSE

N Sound Equalizer

 N Sound Equalizer amplifies dynamic driving sound in harmony with the famous N exhaust sound through interior speakers. Drivers can select between sporty, high performance and TCR mode and even customize three different tones and levels.
LVE

Linear Variable Exhaust Valve System

 The N exhaust sound has been restructured and refined by adding linear variable valve setting from 0 to 100. When you are idling in normal mode, creep booming will be minimized. While on N mode, fully opened valve generates exhaust sound that suits your N mood.
Design /

Aerodynamics

 3BS

3 Bridged Spoiler wing

 Wing type spoiler improves aerodynamics for maximum speed and faster corner exits.
UBO

Under Body Optimization

 A wider coverage of undercover enhances underbody air flow. This reinforcement in aerodynamics help improve high speed driving balance.
LW

Low & Wide design

 Semi glossy black pearl mask, front lip spoiler, rear diffuser and wider tire maximize ELANTRA N’s low and wide stance.
LSP

Lowest Seat Position

 With N light bucket seat and 10mm lowered seating position, a deeper connection between the driver and vehicle is formed. The overall center of gravity is also lowered.
RSR

Rear Seat Roominess

 Carrying over the excellence of the base model, ELANTRA N boasts the most spacious rear seat roominess among its competitors. The N light sports bucket seat reduces 50mm of seatback thickness compared to the base model, securing an additional rear seat roominess.
Tire WT

Wider Tire

 The ELANTRA N is the first N model to be offered Michelin Pilot Sport 4S 245/35ZR 19-inch tires. These high performance tires are offered as standard, providing superior grip in every phase of cornering.
Intake /

 Infotainment

 LDI

Lightweight Direct Intake

 The air intake system has been restructured for better airflow into the engine, reducing the air pressure by 10.6%. This also reduces overall weight by 895g.
NI

New Infotainment system

 Enhances readability and visibility of various driving information. It also helps track the driver’s current location on track and automatically records lap time in real time.
HNA

Hyundai N App

 The Hyundai N App saves and analyzes every aspect of driving data from speed, lap time to g-force and more. It also allows drivers to compare driving performance with others, providing the opportunity to learn and grow as an Nthusiast. (Currently available only in S.Korea)

Lotus Emira: Petrol-Powered Princess’s Bittersweet Goodwood Debut

Ghaith Madadha
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Lotus Emira: Petrol-Powered Princess’s Bittersweet Goodwood Debut

Set to be a princess among sports cars as the Arabic translation of its name suggests, the Emira is pitched as a near supercar sports car that takes design inspiration from the limited production Lotus Evija EV hypercar, with its taut skin, sleek lines, athletic stance and voluptuous curves. In effect, the Emira is Lotus’ replacement for the aging but sublimely rewarding and capable Evora, albeit one that ditches its predecessor’s uniquely practical mid-engine 2+2 seating configuration.

Making its public ‘dynamic debut’ at this year’s Goodwood Festival of Speed and set to go on sale by next spring, the Emira remains a comparative lightweight at just 1,405kg for the entry-level model, and retains its predecessor’s mid-engine, rear-drive layout, and thankfully with no mention of any electrification according to Lotus’ press release.

Instead, the Emira’s drive-line options at launch will include a more powerful version of the existing Lotus-tuned and supercharged Toyota-sourced 3.5-litre V6 engine, along with a downsized Mercedes-AMG sourced 2-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder engine. Developing 400BHP and 360BHP respectively, the Emira ‘s performance is meanwhile quoted at 4.5-seconds through 0-100km/h and with a top speed of 290km/h. Gearbox options meanwhile include automatic, double-clutch and best of all, a true three-pedal manual for purists.

Impressively swift, the lusty Emira is meanwhile expected to deliver the same dynamic prowess and intimately intuitive and connected driving experience that Lotus is so famed for. With that in mind, the Emira uses hydraulic steering assistance, rather than now more fashionable electric assistance. Its aerodynamic package is meanwhile passive rather than active, but is honed to provide balance and plenty of high speed and cornering downforce

Old school in character, the Emira is however a much more technologically advance car than the Evora, and features an extensive driver-assistance and safety suite, along with modern infotainment, instrumentation, conveniences and cabin treatment.

– Press Release –

Lotus Emira: the most accomplished Lotus ever made

  • All-new mid-engined sports car perfectly embodies ongoing transformation of iconic British sports car manufacturer
  • Striking design, delivering exotic supercar appeal in sports car segment
  • Inspiration from Lotus Evija hypercar clear in fluid surfaces and crisp feature lines
  • Developed on Lotus’ recently announced Sports Car Architecture
  • Two petrol engines available, including new-to-Lotus 2.0-litre turbocharged ‘i4’ from technical partner AMG
  • Much-loved and characterful 3.5-litre supercharged V6 from Exige and Evora to feature as ‘First Edition’ range-topper
  • Manual, automatic and Dual Clutch Transmission to maximise global appeal
  • Power output from 360 to 400 hp at launch
  • 0-62mph (0-100km/h) in less than 4.5 seconds
  • Top speed of up to 180mph (290km/h)
  • Target weight of 1,405kg in its lightest form
  • Prices will start from under £60,000 (under €72,000)

06 July 2021, Hethel, UK – The Emira is an all-new mid-engined premium sports car that perfectly embodies the ongoing transformation of the Lotus business and brand. It features all the hallmarks that the automotive world has come to expect from a Lotus – striking design, thrilling dynamic performance delivering best-in-class ride and handling, outstanding aerodynamics and an unrivalled experience ‘For The Drivers’.

Building on the legacy of the Elise, Exige and Evora, the Emira represents a quantum leap forward for Lotus. Those instantly recognisable brand signatures and core values have been combined with a paradigm shift in levels of practicality, comfort, functionality and technology.

Matt Windle, Managing Director, Lotus Cars commented: “The Emira is a game-changer for Lotus. It stands as a beacon of everything we have achieved to date in the transformation of the business, the embodiment of our progress. It is a highly significant milestone on our path to becoming a truly global performance car brand.”

The Emira has been developed on a new lightweight bonded aluminium chassis, technology pioneered by Lotus and which remains an intrinsic part of the company’s sports car DNA. That innovative vehicle architecture is wrapped with a bold and sculpted design using cues clearly developed from the Evija. Key dimensions of the Emira are length 4,412mm; width 1,895mm; height 1,225mm; and wheelbase 2,575mm.

First customer cars will start to be delivered around the world from next spring. Powering the Emira will be a choice of two petrol engines, both globally respected for their performance characteristics. At launch, the first cars will be available as limited-production ‘First Edition’ models powered by the much-loved and Lotus-honed 3.5-litre V6 which cut its sports car teeth powering the Exige and Evora.

From summer 2022, the first new Lotus sports car engine for more than a decade makes its debut, with the Emira powered by AMG. The new-to-Lotus AMG unit is a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder ‘i4’ from the performance division of Mercedes-Benz.

Working with Lotus for the first time, AMG has come on board as technical partner on the Emira programme, with some fundamental changes made to the in-line four-cylinder set-up for its Lotus debut. Transverse-mounted and delivering rear-wheel drive, the unit has been modified with a new air intake system and new exhaust to suit the character of the Emira. The second engine is more familiar, the 3.5-litre supercharged Toyota V6 that is so loved by drivers of the Exige and Evora. Cars will be available with a manual, automatic and Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT).

Across the Emira range, power output will between 360 and 400bhp at launch, with 0-62mph (0-100km/h) acceleration in less than 4.5 seconds and top speeds of up to 180mph (290km/h). Maximum torque will be 430Nm and CO2 emissions will start below 180g/km. The car has a target weight of 1,405kg in its lightest form, and prices will start at less than £60,000 (less than €72,000).

Manufacturing will take place at Lotus’ famous home in Hethel, Norfolk, following more than £100million of new investment in the company’s UK facilities. The highly skilled operations teams will be supported by new processes and technologies to enhance production efficiency, volume capability and overall quality.

Matt Windle added: “The Lotus Emira is the most accomplished Lotus road car ever to roll through the Hethel factory gates. Beautifully proportioned with a stunning design inspired by the Evija all-electric hypercar, it’s the perfect package. The Emira is a junior supercar with all the thrills and head-turning characteristics found in the greatest Lotus cars, but at the same time is an everyday sports car that’s high on comfort and functionality, packed with the latest technology demanded by the discerning driver.”

Lotus retailers around the world are now taking deposits for the Emira. The Emira will make its public dynamic debut this coming weekend at the Goodwood Festival of Speed (8-11 July).

Lotus Emira in detail

The Emira is the first all-new Lotus sports car to be delivered under Vision80, the strategic plan which is guiding the transformation of Lotus as it moves towards its 80th anniversary in 2028. It is a truly global model, engineered to sell in all major markets around the world. Acting as a catalyst to further enhance brand awareness globally, it’s spearheading the repositioning and expansion of the Lotus retail network ahead of the arrival of a family of new vehicles.

Pronounced ‘Eh-meer-ah’, the word features in numerous ancient languages and often translates as ‘commander’ or ‘leader’. It’s highly appropriate as this is the exciting new sports car leading Lotus’ last hurrah with internal combustion engines, before fully embracing electrification and a new era for the brand later in the decade.

Exterior design: delivering exotic supercar appeal in the sports car segment

The Emira is the first Lotus sports car to carry the new design language first showcased on the award-winning Evija hypercar. It’s a contemporary look with sculpted surfaces and technical detailing, delivering exotic supercar appeal in the sports car segment. A new and more premium approach for Lotus in terms of forms and materials, it is also a leap forward in fit and finish.

Led by Russell Carr, Design Director, Lotus, the creative team has succeeded in designing something beautiful, timeless, memorable, modern and that looks like a Lotus. Its optimised proportions and athletic shrink-wrapped body visually describe Lotus’ legendary agile driving characteristics.

Russell commented: “The Emira captures the visual drama of an exotic supercar, with great proportions, wide footprint and a cabin that sits low down between muscular haunches. Add in that it’s practical enough to be useable every day, of the highest quality and accessibly priced, and it’s undoubtedly a compelling and seductive alternative to the existing sports car competition. The Emira is re-introducing our brand to a new global audience while still offering all the thrills to engage the most ardent driving enthusiast.”

The influence of the Lotus Evija is plain to see through the fluid surfaces and crisp feature lines. The lineage is even more obvious on the prominent leading edge of the bonnet, shrink-wrapped cabin that’s tapered to the rear, sculpted doors and vents cut into the muscular rear haunches. The unique-in-class exit vents, integrated into the bonnet to guide airflow over the car and optimise aerodynamics, are also derived from the Evija.

Vertical all-LED headlamps are standard across the range, with a wing-inspired twin blade design also familiar from the Lotus hypercar. The bonnet houses the current iteration of the iconic Lotus roundel, its first appearance on a new Lotus sports car and slightly larger than on previous models.

Looking at the Emira in profile, the sculpted section cut into the door leads air flow towards the intake ahead of the rear wheel. This serves a dual purpose, providing air for the engine but also to cool it. The Emira name badge is visible from the side, integrated into the C-pillar. All wheels are 20-inches in diameter; as standard they will be fitted with a Goodyear Eagle F1 Supersport tyre, while a Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 is a cost option available in conjunction with the Lotus Drivers Pack. Both tyres have been specially developed for the Emira by their manufacturer.

At the rear, the Lotus wordmark dominates the integrated bumper, above a body coloured panel that’s clearly inspired by the rear of the Evija. At each end is an exit vent for air from the wheel arch. Each corner has a flat C-shaped LED light cluster linked by a slimline high-level brake light. Below is a black section housing twin exhaust pipes either side of the number plate and with an air diffuser underneath to aid downforce.

Efficient aerodynamics has been at the heart of the Lotus brand since the company was founded in 1948. It is a philosophy inextricably linked to delivering outstanding performance whether a car is on the road or race track. Simplicity is at the core of the Emira – there are no active aerodynamics as clever engineering means they’re not needed. It is the only model in its class to create passive downforce that’s precisely balanced between the front and rear axles at all speeds, perfectly tuned to the weight distribution and suspension geometry of the car. It means as downforce increases with speed, generating exceptional grip through corners, the handling characteristics remain constant, precise and predictable.

Richard Hill, Chief Aerodynamicist, Lotus Cars, commented: “At Lotus, development of any new sports car is never focused solely on either aerodynamics or vehicle dynamics. It’s about creating that unique harmony of natural forces that is ‘Lotus dynamics’ – a sprinkling of magic dust that creates a thrilling driving experience that’s unrivalled in the automotive world. The Emira has that magic and more.”

Chassis and powertrain: advanced new platform mated to high-performance engines

The Emira is built on the recently announced new Lotus Sports Car Architecture. It uses the same pioneering Lotus bonded extruded aluminium chassis technology which debuted on the Elise. However, for the Emira, every dimension is different to any previous Lotus chassis and it is fabricated in an all-new facility – Lotus Advanced Structures – in Norwich, just a few miles from Hethel.

The car has two defined chassis and suspension settings. Tour is tuned for everyday road use, delivering the optimum blend of Lotus dynamic performance and handling with a more comfortable ride. Sports is available with the optional Lotus Drivers Pack and provides a slightly stiffer suspension set-up for enhanced dynamic capability and feel. Hydraulic steering provides excellent feedback for the driver.

Two petrol engines are available, a Lotus-engineered 2.0-litre four-cylinder unit from technical partner AMG, and the much-loved and characterful 3.5-litre V6 from the Exige and Evora. Each is calibrated by Lotus to provide a unique and distinctive character for maximum driver engagement.

Gavan Kershaw, Director of Vehicle Attributes, Lotus, commented: “The 2.0-litre is the world’s most powerful production in-line four-cylinder unit mated to AMG’s acclaimed DCT with paddleshifts and driving modes. It’s high-performance, hugely efficient thanks to cutting-edge technology, and delivers low emissions and linear performance. On top of all that, it’s been tuned in-house by the hugely experienced Hethel engineers to deliver that distinctive Lotus experience.”

He added: “The Emira has a wider track than any recent Lotus road car, enhancing stability, delivering exceptional road-holding and the sensation of a very low centre of gravity. It is a true Lotus sports car that builds on the legacy of the Elise, Exige and Evora.”

Interior design: a huge step-change for Lotus

Lotus car interiors have always been famed for putting the driver at the very centre of the experience, with pure ergonomic design and instruments carefully placed for the most intuitive use. The Emira follows these principles to the letter to create a modern cockpit environment with the essential controls to hand and minimum distraction.

What’s new about this next-generation Lotus sports car is immediately obvious – the huge step-change across all aspects of the cabin, from the contemporary design and quality of materials to the increase in storage space, exceptional fit and finish, attention to detail and abundant advanced technology now integrated.

The wraparound nature of the dashboard as it blends into the door trim creates a cossetted feeling that makes the driver feel at one with the car. The raised gear shifter only enhances that emotion. There are a high number of soft-trimmed surfaces, showcasing premium British craftsmanship that conveys ultimate sportiness. They blend perfectly with modern technical finishes to create a premium experience for the driver – ‘technology with soul’ – and there are details added in tribute to the heritage and sporting success of Lotus. Examples include the positioning of the gearstick on manual cars, which echoes that of the iconic Esprit, and the semi-exposed gear linkage visible at the base of the centre console on V6 manual cars, as on the Elise and Exige. Adding to the sense of theatre is the protective red cover over the start/stop button.

The two seats have been designed to combine exceptional lateral support for high-speed cornering with total comfort for long distance journeys. There is four-way electric adjustment on the standard seat, with the option to upgrade to a premium sports seat with 12-way electric adjustment for both the driver and passenger. All seats are unique to the Emira. The dramatic supercar-like low stance of the car has been achieved while matching best-in-class ingress/egress and headroom.

Also unique to the Emira is the flat-bottomed sports steering wheel with metallic spoke detail and integrated controls. The interior features ambient and wraparound lighting as well as map lights.

Features available on the Emira include keyless go, cruise control, rain-sensing wipers, electric folding door mirrors, rear parking sensors (with front sensors as an option), auto-dimming rear view mirror, curtain airbags, launch control (as part of optional Lotus Drivers Pack), and a stolen vehicle tracker.

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) available on the Emira include adaptive cruise control, anti-collision system, fatigue alert, road sign information, vehicle speed limiter, lane departure warning, rear cross traffic alert, lane change assist.

An everyday sports car that sets new standards for practicality, comfort and functionality

Richard Moore, Executive Director, Engineering, Lotus, commented: “Lotus customers around the world have rightly come to expect outstanding dynamic performance from our sports cars, and they will undoubtedly get that with the Emira. Like every great Lotus it has that element of theatre, for example, the visible gearshift mechanism on manual cars and the exposed throttle actuator in the V6 engine bay.”

He added: “What will surprise and delight sports car customers the world over is the level of practicality, functionality and comfort which sets new standards for Lotus.”

From the very first discussions Lotus wanted the Emira to be an ‘every day’ sports car, delivering a usability and practicality to support that with levels of comfort and desirability for total comfort over long-distance cruising. To that end, it sets new standards for Lotus and is better than ever for the tallest and shortest drivers. There is more space between the occupants as well.

The glass area has been designed to provide good all-round visibility for daily use. Acknowledging that some owners will drive their Emira in a spirited way, and even on a circuit, the view forward – particularly of the haunches – supports highly accurate placement of the car through corners.

Access to the car’s infotainment system is via a 10.25-inch centrally mounted touch-screen, with an additional 12.3-inch TFT driver’s display behind the steering wheel. All content is exclusive to Lotus has been designed and developed by an in-house team. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are integrated as standard.

Also exclusive to Lotus is the availability of a 10-channel premium sound system from highly respected British brand KEF. This is the company’s first ever automotive partnership and features its signature Uni-Q™️ technology, a unique configuration which dispenses with separated tweeter and mid-range, instead combining both into an acoustically idealised single unit. Finished with a distinctive bespoke speaker fret design, Uni-Q covers the entire mid and high-frequency sound spectrum from a single point in space, delivering a more coherent, hyper-realistic sound experience.

Storage is vital in sports car and the Emira’s cabin has been exceptionally well thought out. It has twin central cup holders with a phone storage slot between them, and door bins that can accommodate a 500ml bottle. Practicality also comes from the glovebox, trinket tray ahead of the gearstick, armrest between the seats with USB and 12v ports, plus a console net for bottles or documents.

Luggage or other large items can be stored behind the two seats (208 litres) or in the boot to the rear of the engine. This space (151 litres) will take a standard-sized flight case or a set of golf clubs.

Lotus Emira range technical specification

Price range Starting at less than £60,000 (less than €72,000)
Dimensions Length 4,412mm; width 1,895mm (mirrors folded); height 1,225mm; wheelbase 2,575mm
Petrol engines 2.0-litre in-line four-cylinder / 3.5-litre V6
Transmissions Manual, automatic and DCT
Power output 360-400hp
Maximum torque 430Nm
Acceleration

(0-62mph / 0-100km/h)

 Less than 4.5 seconds
Top speed Up to 180mph (290km/h)
CO2 emissions Start below 180g/km
EU DIN kerb weight 1,405kg in its lightest form
Connectivity and infotainment 10.25-inch touch-screen; integrated navigation*; Apple CarPlay / Android Auto; KEF Uni-Q premium audio system

* not available in all markets
Key technology and features Keyless-go; cruise control; rain-sensing wipers; electric folding door mirrors; powered seats; all-LES exterior lights; adaptive cruise control; anti-collision system; fatigue alert; road sign information; vehicle speed limiter; lane departure warning; rear cross traffic alert; lane change assist.

 

Ultimate Conclusion: Lamborghini Aventador LP780-4 Ultimae

Ghaith Madadha
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Ultimate Conclusion: Lamborghini Aventador LP780-4 Ultimae

– Press Release –

The Lamborghini Aventador LP 780-4 Ultimae

It takes time to become timeless

  • The essence of the V12 aspirated Aventador in a final incarnation: Ultimae
  • To be produced in a numbered series of 350 units in coupé and 250 roadster editions
  • Uprated, longitudinally-mounted V12 engine sends 780 CV at 8,500 rpm to permanent four-wheel drive, as designated by its traditional ‘LP 780-4’ moniker
  • Acceleration of 0-100 km/h in 2.8 seconds, 0-200 km/h in 8,7 and a top speed of 355 km/h (coupé)
  • The best of Aventador SVJ performance combined with the driving dynamics of the Aventador S and the definitive Aventador design
  • A world-wide virtual premier and making its physical debut at the UK’s Goodwood Festival of Speed 8-11 July

07 July 2021, Sant’Agata, Bolognese, Italy – Automobili Lamborghini announces the Aventador LP 780-4 Ultimae: a celebration of the iconic V12 super sports car and combustion engine in a final production model, concentrating the purest features of all Aventador editions into a perfect finale. The Aventador LP 780-4 harnesses the performance of the SVJ and intensifies the sophisticated elegance of the Aventador S, converging design and dynamism into a decisive collector’s piece in both coupé and roadster forms.

“The Aventador LP 780-4 denotes the final, purest, timeless naturally-aspirated production V12 Lamborghini,” says Stephan Winkelmann, President and CEO of Automobili Lamborghini. “It delivers the essential twelve-cylinder experience in terms of inimitable design, engineering solutions and the most emotive driving experience, and is the definitive Aventador concluding an extraordinary era. It is the last of its kind: it delivers the maximum power and conclusive performance expected from Lamborghini’s current V12 engine, combined with our inimitable flagship’s design DNA. The Aventador was destined to become a classic from launch, and the Aventador LP 780-4 is the most beautiful expression of timeless design and technical solutions in a final edition: Ultimae.”

After more than a year where events worldwide were cancelled due to the pandemic, the Aventador LP 780-4 Ultimae coupe and roadster will be displayed at the UK’s 2021 Goodwood Festival of Speed in front of automotive enthusiasts and owners.

Power and performance

The Aventador LP 780-4 Ultimae’s elegant lines belie the performance of this final edition. The twelve-cylinder, 6.5-liter ‘Longitudinale Posteriore’ (LP) engine delivers 780 CV: 40 CV more than the Aventador S and 10 CV over the SVJ to its permanent four-wheel drive. The LP 780-4 Ultimae celebrates the visceral character, power and performance of the Lamborghini’s Aventador’s ten-year evolution, including the know-how of the Nürburgring-Nordschleife record SVJ powertrain set in July 2018; the super sports technical advances and luxury of the S mode; and the purity of the original Aventador concept. It is the grand finale of the traditional V12 combustion engine, and the ultimate Aventador in every sense.

The Aventador LP 780-4’s unique, extremely rigid and lightweight carbon fiber monocoque, and extensive use of carbon fiber throughout the body, contributes to its dry weight of just 1,550 kg. The coupé version, weighing 25 kg less than the Aventador S, delivers the same weight-to-power ratio as the SVJ at 1.98 kg/CV accelerating from 0-100 km/h in 2.8 seconds and a top speed of 355 km/h, with 720 Nm of torque at maximum 6750 rpm, and optimized VVT (Variable Valve Timing) and VIS (Variable Intake System) for an optimised torque curve. Its CCB braking system delivers 100 km/h to standstill in just 30 m.

Lateral control is optimized through four-wheel steering, introduced on the Aventador S, ensuring agility at low and medium speeds and enhanced stability at high speed. Lamborghini Dynamic Steering (LDS) on the front axle is calibrated for responsive feedback with sharp turn-in while adapted to integrate with the active rear-wheel steering on the rear axle: separate actuators respond in five milliseconds to drivers’ steering movements, allowing a real-time adjustment to steering angles enhancing cornering properties.

The LP 780-4 Ultimae’s design adopts a specific front bumper concept for increased aero load on the front, with longitudinal performance similar to the SVJ. The ESC is calibrated for fast, precise traction control and vehicle dynamics, recognizing and adapting to differences in grip, including on low-grip surfaces such as snow and ice. The permanent four-wheel drive, due to the rear-wheel steering, is calibrated to allow more torque to the rear axle so that when powering off, less torque is shifted to the front axle to allow sporty but safe over-steer behavior. The systems are managed by Lamborghini Dinamica Veicolo Attiva (LDVA) that processes precise, real-time information on body motion via sensors, thus defining the best response of all active systems to deliver the best vehicle dynamics in every condition.

Delivering the state of the art aerodynamic performance, the front splitter and open ‘mouth’ of the LP 780-4 directs additional airflow to optimize aerodynamic efficiency, engine and radiator cooling. The front bumper’s airducts and side cooling inlet reduce aerodynamic interference from the front tires and optimize wake flow to the rear radiator, with the Ultimae’s lightweight rear bumper completing the dynamic exterior and celebrating the SVJ’s track-oriented heritage.

The active aero system’s rear wing moves into three positions – closed, ‘maximum performance’ and ‘maximum handling’ – dependent on speed and the drive mode selected, optimizing the car’s overall balance and working with vortex generators created in the front and rear of the chassis’ underside to maximize air flow and assist with brake cooling. Transmission is via Lamborghini’s lightweight Independent Shifting Rod (ISR) 7-speed shifting system, providing robotized gearshifts in up to 50 milliseconds.

The Aventador LP 780-4 Ultimae’s drive modes allow the pilot to select not only STRADA, SPORT and CORSA dynamic options, but in EGO mode choose their own parameters for optimum set-up of the Lamborghini active suspension (LMS), traction controls (engine, gearbox and four-wheel drive) as well as steering.

A final production masterpiece – Ultimae

The Aventador LP 780-4 Ultimae celebrates the Lamborghini Aventador’s complex yet elegant lines and surfaces: the culmination of Lamborghini’s aspirated-V12 design legacy. Paying homage to the benchmark performance of the SVJ and the ageless super sports elegance of the S model, it takes the best components of both to create a perfect balance between performance and dynamism with an enduring sophistication.

A new palette of options for exterior and interior is created for owners of the 350 coupés and 250 roadsters numbered editions of the Ultimae, offering a refined yet dynamic, elegant yet distinctive representation of the last Aventador. Its silhouette, clean and unfettered, is as recognizable and timeless an outline as other V12 Lamborghini classics such as Countach, Diablo and Murciélago. The new collection of tone-on-tone colors are elegant while recalling the Aventador’s powerful original design cues taken from the world of aeronautics. Offered as standard are 18 colors, with an unprecedented range of options and more than 300 colors available through Lamborghini Ad Personam, allowing owners to create their own, unique piece of Lamborghini V12 motoring history.

The Aventador LP 780-4 Ultimae coupé is launched in a two-tone, grey-on-grey configuration, with lines and details such as the front splitter’s outline and ‘teeth’ picked out in matt red Rosso Mimir, with the accent line continuing along the car with matching accents on the rear fins of the visible carbon fiber rear diffuser: elite performance and design purity in perfect harmony. On the Aventador LP 780-4 Ultimae Roadster, the roof is also offered in visible carbon fiber.

The matt Grigio Acheso and Grigio Teca external colors’ elegant yet sporty two-tone is echoed in the interior: black leather and Alcantara base materials feature stitching and trim in a complementary grey to the exterior, with ‘Y’ seat inserts in black Alcantara. An optional laser cut ‘Y’ repeat motif with contrast backing color on seats and dashboard, distinguishes the Ultimae model: a dynamic, stylistic feature offered for the first time. The LP 780-4’s comfort seat is taken from the Aventador S, with the ‘Ultimae’ name embroidered into the seat bolster, while the A-pillar driver dashboard area carries the 001 of 350/250 reference to the limited edition.

The client can play with the ‘S’ line highlights in seat, door and dash trims with three standard colors, (silver, bronze and white), a further five foptional colors and, of course, the almost infinite spectrum of options through Lamborghini Ad Personam. A standard carbon fiber package CFK highlights exterior and interior features, and the exterior is available in a matt finish to match the exterior colors with low gloss.

Silver Dianthus 20” and 21” forged alloys come as standard together with further 20” and 21” options in Dianthus, Leiron and Nireo in bronze, black and titanium, fitted with Pirelli PZero Corsa tires. The exterior features the extension of the color accent livery in three colors: white, silver and bronze matching the accent on the front bumpers and the rear diffuser fins. Silver calipers as standard are joined by a range of further optional caliper colors that are echoed in the wheel monolock.

The Aventador LP 780-4 Ultimae Roadster is launched in Blu Tawaret and Blu Nethuns with the roof panels in high gloss black carbon fiber.

The driver and passenger environment is just as refined: the customizable TFT digital dashboard displays driver modes as well as controlling in-car connectivity. Apple CarPlay manages voice activated communications and entertainment, with the Lamborghini telemetry system available as an option for those wanting to celebrate the last Aventador on track.

From launch, the Aventador LP 780-4 Ultimae will be available in both coupe and roadster configurations in the Lamborghini network with the exception of the markets: Mainland China, South Korea, Vietnam, Brazil and Chile.

Jeep Gladiator Sand Runner Designed As Mideast Desert Stormer

Ghaith Madadha
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Jeep Gladiator Sand Runner Designed As Mideast Desert Stormer

Improving on the already impressively off-road capable and Jeep Wrangler-based Gladiator pick-up, the Sand Runner gains a suspension lift, wider track, silver skidplate and reinforced frame, axles and steering knuckles. To cope with the hard knocks of high speed desert driving, the Sand Runner also gets unique Fox dampers with internal bypass, external fluid reservoir and jounce bumpers to improve comfort, handling and fade and bottoming out resistance for more demanding desert runs.

– Press Release –

Jeep Gladiator Sand Runner — the Ultimate High-performance Off-road Midsize Pickup Built to Conquer the Desert

  • Jeep Gladiator Sand Runner offers the ultimate off-road capability and performance in grueling desert and sand environments of the Middle East
  • Industry-exclusive FOX hydraulic jounce bumpers and 64-mm (2.5-inch) internal bypass shocks with external reservoirs bolster Gladiator Sand Runner’s high-speed dune-bashing credentials
  • All-new Jeep Gladiator Sand Runner is the first Jeep vehicle to earn the Desert Rated badge

07 July 2021, Dubai, UAE – Jeep presents the Gladiator Sand Runner, the ultimate in high-speed off-road capability and performance in desert environments. Courtesy of the brand’s renowned 4×4 system and significant suspension upgrades, which underwent extensive testing over harsh sand and desert terrain for vehicle durability and protection, the Jeep Gladiator Sand Runner is the first Jeep in the Middle East to wear the ‘Desert Rated’ badge.

Jeep Gladiator Sand Runner models feature new, specially-tuned FOX 64-mm (2.5-inch) internal bypass shocks with external reservoirs, industry-exclusive FOX front hydraulic jounce bumpers, a reinforced frame, a 25-mm (1-inch) front suspension lift with a silver front skid plate, stronger axles with cast-iron steering knuckles, aggressive front seats with integrated upper bolsters and standard 33-inch tires. All of these standard features enable the Gladiator Sand Runner to become the Jeep brand’s first Desert Rated vehicle.

“Already the world’s most off-road capable midsize pickup, we have now applied Jeep’s exceptionally high standards for off-road performance to the extreme desert conditions of the Middle East with the Gladiator Sand Runner,” said Marco Melani, Managing Director for American Brands at Stellantis Middle East. “Developed and tested in some of the world’s most harsh and rugged regions, the Jeep Gladiator Sand Runner was built in the desert, for the desert, delivering a new level of capability with the ability to master challenging rock and sand terrains with ease.”

Legendary Jeep 4×4 capability

The starting point for the Sand Runner’s new level of capability is the Gladiator’s proven Command-Trac 4×4 system, which features a two-speed transfer case with a 2.72:1 low-range gear ratio and heavy-duty third-generation Dana 44 front and rear axles with a 4.10:1 rear axle ratio and electronic-locking rear differential as standard. The Jeep Command-Trac 4×4 system is used to provide higher 4LO (low range) operating speeds for climbing sand dunes and other challenging desert events.

A best-in-class approach angle of 44.7 degrees, breakover angle of 20.9 degrees, departure angle of 25.5 degrees and a best-in-class ground clearance of 295mm (11.6 inches) further enhance the Gladiator Sand Runner’s off-road credentials.

More durable suspension and high-performance shocks

To earn the Desert Rated badge, Jeep engineers equipped the Gladiator Sand Runner with specially-tuned high-performance FOX 64-mm (2.5-inch) internal bypass shocks to maximize handling, comfort and bottom-out resistance on high-speed sand runs. The FOX shocks contain internal passages that allow fluid to bypass the piston through regulated ports as it moves through the suspension travel. The result is a predictable ride over normal off-road driving conditions, with the ability to ramp up damping force in extreme use.

Front and rear external shock reservoirs keep shock fluid cool, preventing shock fade during long runs through the hot desert at high speed. The same kind of military-grade suspension fluid used in off-road racing shocks maintains performance at extreme temperatures.

Industry-first FOX front hydraulic jounce bumpers, which combine race-proven technology with new, cutting-edge features, add additional damping force as the suspension reaches maximum compression to soften impacts and prevent bottoming out in harsh off-road situations.

A 13-mm (1/2-inch) increase in the Sand Runner’s track provides additional stability and allows for the packaging of the larger shocks. Jeep engineers also reinforced both the frame and axle to handle rough desert terrains at high speed.

These engineering enhancements to the Gladiator Sand Runner’s suspension provide ride control and confidence on any high-speed sand or desert terrain, while an Off-Road Plus button allows drivers to take the Gladiator to the next level of tractive capabilities. With the push of the button the driver triggers adjustments to the throttle, transmission shift points and traction control for peak performance on higher speed passes on sand terrain, as well as during low-speed soft sand and rock crawling conditions. In addition, for the first time on a Jeep, the Off-Road Plus drive mode on the Gladiator Sand Runner enables drivers to lock their rear axle at high speeds while in high range, “4H”.

Proven powertrain

The Jeep Gladiator Sand Runner’s 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine delivers 285 horsepower and 260 lb.-ft. of torque and features engine stop-start (ESS) technology as standard equipment. It is engineered to provide a broad torque band with a focus on low-end torque, an essential trait needed for extreme off-roading. An eight-speed automatic transmission is standard with the 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6.

The 2021 Jeep Gladiator benefits from the popular V-6 engine’s low-range torque, which is needed when out on the dunes or during demanding conditions, such as hauling cargo. With the standard eight-speed automatic transmission, the Gladiator Sand Runner boasts an impressive crawl ratio of 52.6:1– making cresting a dune or scaling any obstacle on the trail easy.

Sand Runner inside and out

Inside the cabin, the Gladiator Sand Runner features more aggressive front seats with integrated upper bolsters to hold occupants comfortably in place during high-speed off-road driving. The upgraded seats are available in leather or cloth with orange accent stitching and embroidered Sand Runner logos.

Featuring a 25-mm (1-inch) front suspension lift that results in a more prominent appearance, the Gladiator Sand Runner is adorned with a unique hood decal on its performance hood that features a center scoop. Distinguishing Sand Runner elements include exterior badges, orange tow hooks and unique 17 x 7.5-inch wheels and the optional Jeep Performance Parts heavy duty side steps.

Jeep Desert Rated

The all-new Desert Rated badge is the first of its kind for Jeep and is a natural extension of the brand’s legendary Trail Rated designation. Desert Rated vehicles represent the ultimate in high-speed, off-road capability and performance in grueling desert and sand environments.

Every Gladiator Sand Runner vehicle has been developed to succeed in a series of strenuous tests in five categories which grant it the Desert Rated badge: Ride Control and Stability, Traction, Ground Clearance, Maneuverability and Desert Prowess.

Ride control and stability

With innovative desert-tuned suspension, the Gladiator Sand Runner tackles sandy terrain without compromising ride control or comfort.

Traction

With controlled torque delivery and management, the Gladiator Sand Runner conquers unpredictable surfaces such as sand, rocks and loose dust with complete confidence.

Ground clearance

Due to the 1” lift in the front, the amplitude is maximized with an optimized suspension allowing the Gladiator Sand Runner to overcome dunes, “fly” over uneven or bumpy terrain and overcome any other difficulties that the desert may throw up.

Maneuverability

Agile and responsive handling allows the Gladiator Sand Runner to become an extension of the driver when speeding through the desert and overcoming extreme angles.

Desert Prowess

It has been tested and verified to withstand the extreme heat, coarse sand, loose gravel, and invasive dust that often accompany harsh desert environments.

Bentley Flying Spur Hybrid Tiptoes Towards Electrification

Ghaith Madadha
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0
Bentley Flying Spur Hybrid Tiptoes Towards Electrification

– Press Release –

THE WORLD’S BEST LUXURY SEDAN MADE GREENER: INTRODUCING THE NEW FLYING SPUR HYBRID

  • Bentley’s Hybrid range expands with the addition of the Flying Spur
  • Next step in Beyond100 strategy to achieve an end-to-end carbon neutral organisation and journey towards electrification
  • New powertrain delivers the renowned luxury and performance of a Flying Spur, without compromise
  • Combined power of 536 bhp (544 PS) and 750 NM (553 lb.ft) provided by a 2.9-litre V6 petrol engine and advanced electric motor
  • Total driving range of over 700 km
  • Subtle exterior badging and additional hybrid information presented via the heads-up display, infotainment screen and instrument cluster

06 July 2021, Dubai, UAE – Bentley Motors is today announcing details of the company’s latest luxury model on its journey to electrification. The introduction of the new Flying Spur Hybrid builds on the success of the third generation Flying Spur, using a highly innovative third powertrain to deliver the most environmentally friendly Bentley to date. The introduction of the Flying Spur Hybrid establishes a family of Bentley hybrids for the first time, emphasising Bentley’s commitment to its Beyond100 strategy to become an end-to-end carbon neutral organisation and the world’s leading sustainable luxury mobility company.

The latest addition to Bentley’s new hybrid range demonstrates that hybridisation does not compromise luxury or performance. With an unperceivable blend between the internal combustion engine and electric motor, refined serenity is on offer regardless of driving mode or style.

The new powertrain combines a 2.9-litre V6 petrol engine with an advanced electric motor, delivering a total of 536 bhp (544 PS) and 750 Nm (553 lb.ft) of torque. The new Flying Spur becomes the most efficient Bentley ever, capable of covering over 700 km when fully fuelled.

With high power reserves, superior torque and quick throttle response, the latest hybrid model gives little away to the Flying Spur V8 in acceleration, passing 60 mph from a standstill in 4.1 seconds.

Inside the cabin, the automatic Start-Stop switch has been replaced with a control for the three E Modes – EV Drive, Hybrid Mode and Hold Mode, enabling the driver to manage the battery usage during a journey. EV Drive mode is engaged as soon as the car is switched on, and maximises the electric driving experience.

Environmentally-Focused Powertrain

The combination of a highly efficient engine and advanced E-Motor delivers the same flexibility and practicality associated with the W12 and V8 powertrains on offer today, achieving a responsive, engaging and supremely refined experience.

The new 2.9-litre V6 engine achieves 410 bhp (416 PS) and 550 NM (406 lb.ft) of torque up to 5650 rpm. The engine delivers over 150 bhp per litre, even higher than the Flying Spur V8.

The advanced electronic motor is located between the transmission and the engine and provides up to 134 bhp (136 PS) and 400 Nm (295 lb.ft) of torque.

The E-motor is powered by a 14.1 kWh lithium-ion battery and can be charged to 100 per cent in as little as two and a half hours. The power electronics convert the energy stored from the high voltage battery to supply the E-Motor or supplement the existing 12v vehicle electrical infrastructure.

The combined powertrain propels the Flying Spur Hybrid from 0-60 mph in 4.1 seconds and on to a top speed of 177 mph. Reduced CO2 values and lower fuel consumption are pending certification and will deliver the most environmentally focused powertrain of the range.

Subtle Integration of Technology

The interior of the Flying Spur Hybrid is a striking combination of the very latest integrated technology, beautiful materials and design prowess, now combined with the features required for a plug-in hybrid vehicle.

A dedicated button allows control over the three E Modes – EV Drive, Hybrid Mode and Hold Mode. These give the driver the freedom to choose to either manually or automatically manage battery usage during a journey.

The EV DRIVE mode maximises the electric diving experience and is optimal for in-city driving. Hybrid mode maximises vehicle efficiency and thus is best suited for longer journeys. Finally, Hold Mode balances engine and electric power to hold high voltage battery charge for later use conserving electric energy.

In addition to the standard equipment supplied, customers can also choose a Bentley branded wallbox available as a no cost option, providing an attractive solution housing the charge unit and storing the charge cables neatly.

A Distinct Model in the Flying Spur Range

The Flying Spur Hybrid has seven Bentley paint colours to choose from as standard. The Blackline Specification offers a contemporary alternative to exterior brightware including a black version of the optional illuminated electrically deployed Flying B radiator mascot, and for a more contemporary exterior aesthetic.

A ‘Hybrid’ badge mounted on the lower front fender, quad oval tailpipes at the rear of the vehicle and a covered universal charging point on the left-hand rear fender denote the new model.

The interior of the Flying Spur Hybrid showcases Bentley’s expertise in creating a modern cabin of unrivalled luxury and innovation. Stylish and unique, the interior features supremely comfortable seats in five hide colours, with Bentley’s ‘Wing’ theme across the lower console and fascia. All Flying Spurs are manufactured at Bentley’s home in Crewe – the world’s first carbon neutral factory for luxury car production. Customer orders can be taken from summer onwards, and first customer deliveries are due before the end of 2021.

Aston Martin Valkyrie Set For Goodwood ‘Dynamic Debut’

Ghaith Madadha
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0
Aston Martin Valkyrie Set For Goodwood ‘Dynamic Debut’

– Press Release –

Aston Martin Valkyrie hypercar set to steal the show at Goodwood Festival of Speed 2021

  • Goodwood Festival of Speed dynamic debut of the highly anticipated Aston Martin Valkyrie hypercar
  • V12 Speedster and Vantage F1 Edition to also make Goodwood debut from the Supercar Paddock
  • Return to Formula One marked with celebratory ‘Aston Martin Moment’
  • Aston Martin Cognizant Formula One Team driver Lance Stroll will drive AMR21 F1 car on Saturday

05 July 2021, Gaydon, United Kingdom:  Following the cancellation of last year’s show, Aston Martin are looking forward to exciting the crowds this week at Goodwood Festival of Speed 2021, with an array of showstopping activities.  With a long-standing history at Goodwood, the ultra-luxury British manufacturer is pulling out all the stops to ensure fans and customers alike are excited and thrilled at what is set to be one of the biggest public events in the UK since early 2020.

The highly anticipated Aston Martin Valkyrie is due to make its Goodwood Festival of Speed debut at the show. The crowd will be delighted to see – and hear – Valkyrie take on the famous Hillclimb past Goodwood House in the ‘Supercar’ batch.  Accelerating from 0-60mph in under 2.5 seconds and powered by an almighty, naturally aspirated 6.5-litre V12 engine producing 1160bhp, Valkyrie – which will be driven by Aston Martin Cognizant Formula One Team driver Lance Stroll on Saturday – is surely set to be the star of the show.

The all new Vantage F1 Edition will also be seen sprinting up the 1.16-mile course.  Based on the Vantage, Official Safety Car of Formula 1, with increased power and enhanced performance and dressed in the new Satin Aston Martin Racing Green, the Vantage F1 Edition will certainly command attention both on the hill and in the Supercar Paddock.  The V12 Speedster, one of only 88, will too be present in the latest DBR1 Designer Specification, which pays homage to the legendary Le Mans winning car.  The Supercar Paddock will also host DB11 and DBS Volante while the First Glance paddock hosts Aston Martin’s highly commended SUV; DBX which will be driven up the hill by Aston Martin’s Chief Engineer, Matt Becker.

Drivers also include Aston Martin CEO Tobias Moers, EVP and Chief Creative Officer, Marek Reichman and three-time Le Mans winner Darren Turner who will all make Hillclimb appearances over the weekend.

As a celebration to mark the brands long-anticipated return to Formula One with the Aston Martin Cognizant Formula One team, and only a week ahead of the British Grand Prix at Silverstone, an ‘Aston Martin Moment’ will take place on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.  Led by Valkyrie, the Vantage Official Safety Car of Formula 1, DBX Official Medical Car of Formula 1 and Vantage F1 Edition will make their way up the famous Hillclimb along with the brands historic racing heroes, DBR1 and LM7.

LM7 was one of 3 Aston Martin factory ‘Team Cars’ built for the 1931 season, making its debut at the Brooklands JCC Double Twelve, followed by Le Mans – and has raced almost continuously since it was built, including in the annual Mille Miglia.  Next year will mark a century since Aston Martin made its grand prix debut (in France 1922), but the brand has enjoyed sustained success in sportscar racing throughout its 108-year history, including overall victory in the 1959 24 Hours of Le Mans with the famous DBR1, driven by Carroll Shelby and Roy Salvadori.

On Saturday, the precession will be joined by the Aston Martin Cognizant Formula One Team’s race car, AMR21 which will be driven by none-other than Aston Martin Cognizant Formula One Team driver himself, Lance Stroll.  Taking center-stage at 10:45, AMR21 will be the only 2021 F1 car to appear at the Goodwood Festival of Speed this year.

Goodwood Festival of Speed runs from Thursday 8th to Sunday 11th July 2021 and is broadcast on ITV and Sky over the weekend.

Abarth 695 Esseesse ‘Collectors’ Edition’ Introduces Variable Assist Spoiler

Ghaith Madadha
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0
Abarth 695 Esseesse ‘Collectors’ Edition’ Introduces Variable Assist Spoiler

– Press Release –

New Abarth 695 Esseesse: top performance, acceleration and handling for the Scorpion brand’s new “Collectors’ Edition”

  • Produced in just 1390 units, the new Abarth “Collectors’ Edition” sets the new benchmark: improved acceleration and handling makes it the fastest in the line-up.
  • Two colors are available: 695 units in “Scorpion Black” and 695 in “Campovolo Grey”.
  • A unique design with iconic details that recall the brand’s past and present.
  • Inspired by the 1964 model of the same name, the new 695 Esseesse is the perfect synthesis between exclusivity and sportiness: a new aluminum bonnet, which lightens the car and changes the weight distribution, and the “Spoiler ad Assetto Variabile” to improve aerodynamics.

05 July 2021, Dubai, UAE – The Scorpio brand returns to make the hearts of the Abarthisti fandom flutter with a new “Collectors’ Edition”: the Abarth 695 Esseesse, a name that has its roots in the brand’s history, referring directly to its early days when the 1960s tuning kits made a fortune for Carlo Abarth, establishing him as the inventor of tuning for mass production cars.

Produced in a limited edition of only 1390 models, divided into 695 “Scorpion Black” and another 695 in “Campovolo Grey”, the Abarth 695 Esseesse is the new collectible edition dedicated to those seeking exclusivity, top performance and a racing soul.

In its creation, the team of Abarth engineers and designers drew inspiration from the 1964 model, the “Cinquino” tuned up as a 695 Esseesse with its displacement raised to 690 cc and 38 hp so it could achieve 140 km/h, designed for everyday use and as a sporty city car, but aimed at those who were seeking the best performance on everyday roads, and produced in only 1,000 units. In addition, the “mean little Scorpion” stood out for its distinctive badges with the monogram “SS” in capital letters on the bonnet and “esseesse”, all in lower case on the dashboard. And it was immediately a success for fans of Italian sportiness.

In the design of the new Abarth 695 Esseesse, the goal was to improve performance further in terms of acceleration and handling. The research therefore drove at a reduction in weight, a different balance and attention to the aerodynamics. As well as marking out the new 695 Esseesse from an aesthetic point of view, the new doubly hunched aluminum bonnet reduces the weight by 25% compared to a normal bonnet, and combined with the adoption of the Akrapovič exhaust and other targeted interventions, has reduced the car’s overall weight by 10 kg compared to an Abarth 595 Competizione. This distinctive feature is joined in the rear by the “Spoiler ad Assetto Variabile”. As well as marking out its style, all these elements have improved performance, for example: on the quarter-mile (400 m), the 695 Esseesse manages to reach the finish line 1/10th of a second faster than the Competizione version.

Top performance and iconic details between past and present

Available in hatchback version only, the new Abarth 695 Esseesse immediately impresses with a new aluminum bonnet and rear spoiler that recall the world of racing and the Scorpion brand’s legendary history of racing. At full tilt (60°) and a speed of 200 km/h, the “Spoiler ad Assetto Variabile” – adjustable from 0 to 60° – provides for an increase in aerodynamic load to up to 42 kg, resulting in improved stability on bends and greater responsiveness in mixed sections. Combined with the aluminum bonnet, all this translates into a lower weight, improved performance on bends and an improvement in acceleration performance. In sum, the new Abarth 695 Esseesse “Collector’s Edition” is the fastest in the line-up.

The aesthetic features of the exterior continue with a series of elements inspired by the past and present, making the 695 Esseesse decidedly exclusive, such as the white details on the front and rear DAM, mirror caps and side stickers. Also white are the 17-inch rims with red hub caps, red Brembo calipers, 695 logo on the side and 695 Esseesse badge on the rear. Worthy of note are the two titanium Akrapovič tailpipes, capable of imparting pure emotions in sound both on the road and on the track, for unique driving fun and pleasure.

Exclusivity of the interior

A little gem of materials and craftsmanship. The new Abarth 695 Esseesse also shows its exclusive side in its interior: the seats include the wording “one of 695” on the headrest. This is a great innovation, the new 695 Esseesse Collectors’ Edition including numbered seats for the first time. In fact, each of the car’s two body colors matches a Sabelt seat with stitching in the same hue as the bodywork. Worthy of note are the red seat belt and the white rear shell. The customization also continues on the Alcantara dashboard fascia, where the laser-cut wording “695 Esseesse” stands out in the lower right corner. And to emphasize the racing soul, not to be missed are the elements in carbon fiber, such as the gear lever, pedals and steering wheel inserts.

Engines and tech specs

The new 695 Esseesse is equipped with the powerful 1.4 T-jet engine, delivering 180 hp of output and 250 Nm of torque at 3,000 rpm, offering a top speed of 225 km/h (with the spoiler adjusted to 0°) and acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.7 seconds. It runs 400 meters from a stationary start in 15.1 seconds, for a perfect synthesis between engine performance and aerodynamics. The same air of sportiness also pervades the Koni FSD shock absorbers on both axles and the powerful braking system with 4-piston red Brembo calipers in the front and 305/240 mm self-ventilated discs in the rear.

The transmission is manual, but an Abarth robotized sequential transmission with shift paddles is available on request.

Finally, on the technology and connectivity front, the Abarth 695 Esseesse is equipped with the Uconnect infotainment system with satnav, 7” touchscreen with built-in Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility and DAB digital radio.

Abarth performance

Having witnessed growth of almost 50% in market share in 2020 compared to 2019, Abarth recorded a great start to 2021 in its first 4 months, continuing the upward trend in market share in Europe, partly down to the launch of the new Abarth 595 line-up for 2021, with the refreshed 595 Turismo and 595 Competizione.

A communications campaign in celebration

To celebrate the new 695 Esseesse Collectors’ Edition, the second act of the communications campaign was made by the creative agency Independent Ideas. It completes the journey embarked on by the Abarth 595 Turismo and 595 Competizione, proposing a surreal scenario consisting of out-of-this-world characters and locations.

The new Abarth 695 Esseesse thus represents the entry point to a “super” exclusive world, characterized by a distinctive, even higher-performance style, dedicated to those who seek extraordinary emotions on a daily basis.

Mercedes EQT Concept Is An Up-Market Electric Take On The Family Mini-Van

Ghaith Madadha
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0
Mercedes EQT Concept Is An Up-Market Electric Take On The Family Mini-Van

– Press Release –

Premiere of the Concept EQT – forerunner of a new premium quality in the small van segment

Mercedes-Benz Vans expands its product portfolio for families and fans of sports and other recreational activities

20 June 2021, Dubai, UAE – With the Concept EQT Mercedes-Benz Vans is giving a tangible impression of the first premium vehicle in the small van segment for families and private customers keen on leisure activities: the T-Class and its fully-electric variant. The near-series-production concept vehicle combines ample and versatile space for up to seven occupants and a generous luggage compartment with a Mercedes-typical design and approach to high-class appeal, comfort, functionality, connectivity and safety. Mercedes-Benz Vans is thus translating the V-Class’s recipe for success into a compact format, bringing a new premium quality into the small van segment. The Concept EQT underscores the unique combination of premium comfort and uncompromising functionality with electric driving pleasure with an electric longboard which is perfectly integrated into the load compartment.

“We are expanding our portfolio in the small van segment with the forthcoming T-Class. It will appeal to families and all those private customers, whatever their age, who enjoy leisure activities and need a lot of space and maximum variability without forgoing comfort and style. The T-Class provides them with an attractive introduction into the world of Mercedes-Benz. And as the Concept EQT shows: We are consistently implementing our claim to leadership in electromobility and will also be offering a fully electric model in this segment in the future,” says Marcus Breitschwerdt, Head of Mercedes-Benz Vans.

Brand-typical design with a high degree of value appeal

The Concept EQT is immediately recognisable as a member of the Mercedes-EQ family. Its design is distinguished by balanced proportions and a sensual surface design. Muscular shoulders and striking wheel wells underline the vehicle’s power and emotive appeal. The characteristic black panel front with LED front headlights flows seamlessly from the bonnet and gleams with a star pattern. The different-sized stars with a 3D effect are featured throughout the vehicle from the front and the 21-inch light-alloy wheels with a high-sheen finish to the panoramic roof and the electric longboard in the rear. There is also a light strip which connects the LED headlamps with the LED rear lamps. This in combination with the vehicle’s paintwork in high-gloss black creates a fascinating contrast, resulting in aesthetics of a particularly high quality.

“The Concept EQT is a new, holistic van with the Design DNA of “Sensual Purity”, says Gorden Wagener, Chief Design Officer Daimler Group. “Sensuous shapes, elegant trims and sustainable materials show that this van clearly belongs to our Mercedes-EQ family.”

The interior of the Concept EQT is as much an emotional and stylish statement as its exterior – characterised by an elegant contrast of black and white. The seats are upholstered in white nappa leather; the plaited leather applications on the seat centre panel comprise recycled leather. The instrument panel in a sensual design is particularly eye-catching. The upper section is shaped like a wing profile with the appearance of a seashore pebble and fuses dynamically with the instrument cluster. A practical semi-closed stowage compartment is located above the instrument cluster for easy access to important utensils or documents. In addition, round air vents in high-gloss black, galvanised trim elements and the multifunction steering wheel with Touch Control buttons underline the high quality, modern appearance. The ambient lighting on the centre console, doors and in the foot well creates a stylish atmosphere.

Intuitive, self-teaching MBUX infotainment system

With the MBUX infotainment system (Mercedes-Benz User Experience), Mercedes-Benz is bringing the innovative operating and display concept to the small van segment. The system can be conveniently operated using the free-standing central display with touch function, the touch control buttons on the steering wheel and, optionally, the “Hey Mercedes” voice assistant. Its ability to learn thanks to artificial intelligence is unique. For example MBUX can anticipate what the driver would like to do next with the help of predictive functions. For instance, if someone regularly calls a certain person on Fridays on the way home, the system will suggest their telephone number on the display on this day of the week. Other highlights from MBUX in conjunction with Mercedes me connect include live traffic information and over-the-air updates.

In the high-resolution infotainment system media display, the EQ tile in the main menu serves as a central point of access to the specific displays and settings. These include the charging current, departure time, energy flow and consumption histogram. The media display can also be used to operate the navigation as well as the driving modes. In conjunction with Mercedes me connect, EV-specific navigation services and functions are also offered, such as the display of charging stations, the electric range and optimized route planning taking into account the charge level, weather or the traffic situation.

Maximum variability and functionality with style

The Concept EQT (length/width/height: 4,945/1,863/1,826 millimetres) features sliding doors on both sides with a particularly large opening so that both full-sized individual seats in the third row can be reached without difficulty. Three child seats can be fitted next to each other in the second row of seats. A panoramic roof with a starscape lasered into it floods the interior with light. The vehicle’s elegant bottle design which tapers from the front to the rear makes the vehicle appear longer. The steeply sloping rear with a comfortable, vertical tailgate and window provides for a particularly spacious load compartment. If more space is required, the third-row seats can be folded or removed completely, leaving sufficient space for a pram, a transport box for dogs and other leisure equipment.

The concept vehicle illustrates this spaciousness and high level of variability for families and outdoor fans with a lot of luggage or sports equipment with a rather surprising feature – an electric longboard integrated into the load compartment. It is stored in a double-floor compartment beneath a plexiglass lid fitted in an aluminium frame and flush with the load compartment floor. The electric longboard is also made of aluminium and features a star pattern, giving it a particularly stylish look.

“The Concept EQT gives an outlook on how space and maximum variability can also be combined with stylish comfort in the small van segment. Our future T-Class is a true multi-talent and with it we will attract new customer groups and grow sustainably,” says Marcus Breitschwerdt.

Market entry for the products mentioned above in the Middle East is to be confirmed.

Nissan Altima ProPilot Makes Advanced Assistance Accessible And Affordable

Ghaith Madadha
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0
Nissan Altima ProPilot Makes Advanced Assistance Accessible And Affordable

– Press Release –

Nissan records Middle East market share growth in FY20, eying further growth this year with new product launches

  • A 10% market share increase recorded in the Gulf, propelled by sales of regional favorite Nissan Patrol
  • Nissan’s ProPILOT technology makes its regional debut, offered on the 2021 Nissan Altima, boosting Nissan Intelligent Mobility (NIM) features
  • The brand is set to launch three new models in the region this year, in addition to celebrating the 70th anniversary of the iconic Nissan Patrol

15 June 2021, Dubai, United Arab Emirates – Nissan today shared an update on the brand’s business performance in the region over the past year, which saw it secure a year-on-year market share increase of 10% in the Gulf in Fiscal Year 2020 (April 2020 – March 2021) – fueled by the strong sales of key SUV and Sedan models, especially the legendary Nissan Patrol.

The announcement was made at a press event, held this morning in Dubai, hosting media representatives in person and virtually from the UAE and the region. Nissan also announced the arrival of its advanced ProPILOT technology to the Gulf, which makes its regional debut within the 2021 Nissan Altima. This new upgrade maintains the mid-sized sedan’s ability to bring together sleek design, driving enjoyment and intelligent mobility technologies.

Nissan’s regional market share growth has been a result of the brand’s innovative efforts to launch new products in unprecedented conditions, as well as its commitment to maintain high-quality customer satisfaction and service with a focus on enhancing its digital offering. This is expected to continue through 2021 with three new model launches for the region, the brand’s presence at Expo 2020 Dubai as its Official Automotive Partner, and celebrations for the Patrol’s 70th Anniversary.

Thierry Sabbagh, Managing Director, Nissan Middle East said: “Despite the challenges as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, we are proud of our efforts to stay agile and build resilience in the past year, and remain committed to our mission of driving innovation that enriches people’s lives. Our achievements in 2020 are in line with the Nissan NEXT global transformation plan to rationalize, prioritize and focus on our strengths, while building a sustainable foundation for long-term growth – allowing us to increase our market share in the region.”

“ProPILOT is another example of how our innovative mobility experiences are making their way to our customers, and we are excited to introduce this to the region within the 2021 Nissan Altima. While 2021 will see us continue to evolve our business and how we engage with customers, we look forward to our ongoing collaboration with trusted partners in the region, to ensure both operational excellence and customer satisfaction across the Middle East,” Sabbagh continued.

Fiscal Year 2020 performance

Nissan’s vehicle line-up in the region continued to enjoy customer demand in the fiscal year 2020 (FY20), spearheaded by key models from the SUV and Sedan segments respectively. Dominating the SUV-F segment in the region, the Patrol generated a market share growth of 15.4% when compared to FY19, retaining its position as a major contributor to Patrol sales globally, as well as to Nissan’s overall sales in the region. The youthful yet functional Nissan KICKS continued to drive sales in the SUV-B segment with a 11% year-on-year increase in market share.

Meanwhile, Nissan Maxima and Altima were the highest-selling Sedan models for Nissan in in FY20, increasing their annual market share by 33% and 8% within the Sedan-E and Sedan-D segments respectively.

Nissan’s FY20 activity in the region began with the launch of the all-new Nissan Sunny with dramatic new design, spacious interior, new technology and safety features. The all-new Nissan X-Terra 2021 was launched virtually in November, bolstering Nissan’s extensive SUV offering and addressing customer demands in the SUV-D segment. The year concluded with the highly-anticipated global launch of the 2021 Nissan Patrol NISMO.

FY20 also saw Nissan dial up its digital services in the region with a range of online features and solutions under a Shop@Home tab – including virtual showrooms, home test drives and maintenance, online buying facilitated by a finance calculator, pre-loan assessment and warranty options, as well as a Web-based Augmented Reality (AR) experience on mobiles and tablets.

A look at 2021

Starting strong with the launch of the 2021 Nissan Patrol NISMO, this year is set to be an important year for Nissan in the region. The brand eyes further growth with three new models set to be launched in 2021, alongside Nissan Intelligent Mobility (NIM) innovations such as ProPILOT technology being introduced in the region.

Entering its third year of production, the 2021 Nissan Altima’s SL grade will premiere the ProPILOT technology in the region, which will be available as a standard feature, adding to a comprehensive list of NIM features such as Intelligent Rear Emergency braking, Nissan Safety Shield 360 technologies, and the choice of two advanced engines to bring excitement to the segment.

Furthermore, Nissan is gearing up to bring the future of mobility to local and international visitors at Expo 2020 Dubai later this year. As the event’s Official Automotive Partner, Nissan will draw on its expertise in sustainable transportation and smart-city solutions – while also unveiling the Nissan Ariya, its next-generation Electric crossover, for its Middle East debut.

Preparations are also under way to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the iconic Nissan Patrol throughout the year.

Nissan Intelligent Mobility: ProPILOT leads the way

When it comes to enhancing driving enjoyment, the 2021 Nissan Altima once again stands alone with Nissan’s advanced ProPILOT technology. ProPILOT eases driver workload by reducing the amount of driver acceleration, steering and braking input under certain driving conditions, such as single-lane highway driving.

ProPILOT utilizes a forward-facing camera, forward-facing radar, sensors and an electronic control module to help the driver stay in the center of the driving lane and to maintain vehicle speed (set by the driver) or help maintain a gap to the preceding vehicle if the vehicle speed drops below the driver-set speed. Combining Nissan’s Intelligent Cruise Control and Steering Assist technologies[1], ProPILOT also can slow the vehicle to a complete stop and hold the vehicle during traffic jam conditions[2].

Another key Nissan Intelligent Mobility technology is Safety Shield 360, which helps provide front, side and rear safety monitoring and intervention technologies. Safety Shield 360 includes Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, Rear Automatic Braking (RAB), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), radar-based Blind Spot Warning (BSW), Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) and High Beam Assist (HBA).

All 2021 Nissan Altima models, including configurations for both the advanced 2.5-liter DOHC inline 4-cylinder direct injection engine and VC-Turbo engine, come equipped with a standard Xtronic transmission. It also features the athletic stance and proportions that made it lower, wider and more dynamic than previous generation – including the V-motion grille with dark chrome finish as well as 16-inch, 17-inch and 19-inch wheel and tire size combinations. The premium interior continues to prioritize comfort, connectivity and convenience with a 7.0-inch Advanced Drive Assist Display, Zero Gravity seat design, remote engine start and available 8-way driver’s seat with memory.

In addition to standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, it comes equipped with an 8-inch multi-touch color display, Bluetooth Hands-free Phone System, Streaming Audio via Bluetooth, Hands-Free Text Messaging Assistant, and Siri Eyes Free voice recognition.

The 2021 Altima ProPILOT is available from April 2021 at a starting price of AED 94,900 (including VAT) for the 2.5L S grade. Prices will vary from market to market.

[1] Intelligent Cruise Control uses limited braking and is not a collision avoidance or warning system. Driver should monitor traffic conditions and brake as needed to prevent collisions.

[2] ProPILOT cannot prevent collisions. It is the driver’s responsibility to be in control of the vehicle at all times. System operates only when lane markings are detected. Does not function in all weather, traffic and road conditions. System has limited control capability and the driver may need to steer, brake or accelerate at any time to maintain safety.

Bio-Fuel Powered Bentley Continental GT3 Prepares For Pikes Peak

Ghaith Madadha
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0
Bio-Fuel Powered Bentley Continental GT3 Prepares For Pikes Peak

– Press Release –

RENEWABLE FUEL TO POWER CONTINENTAL GT3 TO THE CLOUDS – BENTLEY’S 2021 PIKES PEAK RACER UNVEILED

  • Bentley launches new sustainability initiative with return to Pikes Peak
  • “Continental GT3 Pikes Peak” to run on renewable fuel
  • Modified race car to be the most dynamic Bentley ever built
  • Bentley bids for triple crown of Pikes Peak records
  • Targeting Time Attack 1 record, to add to Production SUV and Production Car records attained in 2018 and 2019
  • Former King of the Mountain Rhys Millen returns to drive for Bentley
  • Car developed in conjunction with GT3 customer team Fastr
  • Pikes Peak International Hill Climb to take place on 27 June 2021

15 June 2021, Middle East – Bentley launched a major new sustainability initiative, with the announcement of a renewable fuels research and development programme spearheaded by the most extreme road-car-based Bentley in its 101 year history. The Continental GT3 Pikes Peak, designed and built to compete for the Time Attack 1 record at this year’s Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, will be the first competition Bentley to run on renewable fuel, ahead of a goal to offer sustainable fuels to Bentley’s customers around the world.

The modified Continental GT3 racer, based on Bentley’s race- and championship-winning car, will power its way through the 12.42-mile course running on a biofuel-based gasoline. Various blends of fuels are currently being tested and evaluated, with possible Greenhouse Gas (GHG) reductions of up to 85% over standard fossil fuel.

Bentley’s ambitious and transformational Beyond100 programme will see the brand become the world’s leading sustainable luxury mobility company, with the entire Bentley model range offered with Hybrid variants by 2023 ahead of Bentley being BEV-only by 2030. The adoption of renewable fuel for this project signals the start of a long-term ambition for Bentley.The strategy is set to maximise the pace of Bentley’s progress towards outright carbon neutrality, as part of its Beyond100 journey.

Combustion-engine Bentleys will still be produced for the next nine years – and Bentley’s new project aims to make those cars as sustainable as possible through the use of innovative fuel technologies. Bentley’s Member of the Board for Engineering, Dr Matthias Rabe, said: “We are delighted to be returning to Pikes Peak for a third time – now powered by renewable fuel, as the launch project for another new element of our Beyond100 programme. Our powertrain engineers are already researching both biofuels and e-fuels for use by our customers alongside our electrification programme – with intermediate steps of adopting renewable fuels at the factory in Crewe and for our company fleet. In the meantime, the Continental GT3 Pikes Peak will show that renewable fuels can allow motorsport to continue in a responsible way, and hopefully it will capture the third and final record in our triple crown.”

To break the record, the car will have to complete the nearly 5,000 ft climb, which includes 156 corners, at an average speed of more than 78 mph to cross the finish line in less than nine minutes and 36 seconds. Bentley has once again turned to three-time Pikes Peak champion and former “King of the Mountain’ Rhys Millen (NZ) – who holds Bentley’s two existing Pikes Peak records – the Production SUV record attained in 2018 with a Bentayga W12, and the outright Production Car record scored in 2019 with a Continental GT.

The Most Extreme Road-Car-Based Bentley in History

With the start line at 9,300 ft, the course climbs to 14,100 ft,. this environment means that the Continental GT3 Pikes Peak features modifications both to its aerodynamics package and its engine, turning it into the most extreme iteration of a Continental GT – or indeed any Bentley road car – ever.

The engine is Bentley’s proven racing power unit, developed from the 4.0-litre turbo V8 fitted to the Continental GT V8.  For the Continental GT3 Pikes Peak, engine modifications together with the use of carefully selected biofuel will ensure the engine develops significant horsepower despite the rarefied conditions it will operate in. Further modifications include cooling air scoops in place of the rear windows, and the obligatory stopwatch mounted to the roll cage next to the steering wheel, to allow Rhys Millen to keep track of his sector times up the mountain.

Audi A3 And Sporty S3 Arrive In Middle East Markets

Ghaith Madadha
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0
Audi A3 And Sporty S3 Arrive In Middle East Markets

– Press Release –

Future Proof: Audi Middle East introduces the all-new Audi A3 Sedan, S3 Sedan, and S3 Sportback

  • The new futuristic generation of the successful A3 family is now being introduced in the UAE– with more style and presence than ever before
  • A new addition regionally, the all-new Audi S3 Sportback makes its debut, expanding the premium compact class offering for the luxury manufacturer
  • Future Proof: The A3 Sedan is available in 3 distinctive lines providing a wide array of choices: basic, advanced and S-line options are available with a 1.4 TFSI engine and 150 hp, while the S-line is also available with a 2.0 TFSI engine and 190 hp
  • Fast Forward: For those who love adventure, the S3 Sedan and Sportback come with a powerful 2.0 TFSI engine and an exhilarating 290 hp

13 June 2021, Dubai, UAE – Audi Middle East introduces the all-new Audi A3 Sedan, S3 Sedan, and for the first time ever is bringing the powerful S3 Sportback into the region – a brand new entry into the hot hatch segment.

Since Audi advanced and elevated the premium compact segment with the A3 in 1996, the line-up of models has continued to expand and improve with the newest generation of the much-loved A3 family promising to be the best one yet.

Carsten Bender, Managing Director at Audi Middle East commented, “We are very excited to upgrade the A3 family offering regionally by introducing the all-new A3 Sedan, S3 Sedan and finally, the S3 Sportback across the markets. The Audi A3 family has come leaps and bounds above previous generations. This best-in-class model coupled with our industry leading warranty, service and maintenance package offering across the region, make us confident that the A3 will be as loved by customers as it is by us.”

Beneath the progressive design of the Audi A3, S3 and S3 Sportback, lie many innovations handed down from their larger siblings such as the latest version of the Audi MMI infotainment system with integrated Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. These features together with numerous driver assistance systems and upgraded design elements ensure that the comfort and safety of the driver always come first.

The A3 Sedan – Sporty, Digitalized, Progressive

Distinctive: design and lighting

The new A3 Sedan features compact proportions and a sporty design. The wide Singleframe and large air inlets at the front end accentuate their dynamic character. The shoulder of the body extends in a smooth line from the headlights to the rear lights. The area below is curved inward. This is a new element of Audi’s design that puts a stronger emphasis on the wheel arches. The digital daytime running lights of the Matrix LED headlights are a further innovation and are available as an option. They consist of a pixel array made up of LED segments in a three by five arrangement that create special light signatures and make the new A3 immediately recognizable.

Digitalized: controls and displays

The cockpit of the new A3 Sedan is wholly focused on the driver. It uses familiar elements from the brand’s larger models and is equipped with a 10.1-inch touch display as a standard feature, which is integrated in the center of the instrument panel. It recognizes letters entered by hand, provides haptic and acoustic feedback, and can be controlled using natural language.

The optional Audi virtual cockpit provides additional functions such as the large display of the navigation map. The optional plus version measures 12.3 inches and enables three different views, including graphics with a sporty look.

Digital, easy to understand, and intuitive: The new A3 Sedan features a newly developed control and display concept with a flat menu structure and symbols that are familiar from smartphones. Audi has replaced the rotary pushbutton on the center tunnel with a large MMI touch display that provides acoustic and haptic feedback. It has a 10.1-inch diagonal, is configured as an MMI radio plus as standard, and is used to control the infotainment system as well as a number of comfort functions. The driver receives acoustic feedback when selecting a function. The system also allows the driver to enter text in handwriting: It recognizes individual letters, cursive writing, whole words, and letters written on top of each other. The MMI search provides a list of suggestions even after just a few characters are entered.

Intensified: the infotainment

The MMI operating concept is powered by the new third-generation modular infotainment platform. Its computing power is ten times higher than that of its predecessor.

Individual settings can be stored in up to six user profiles – from climate control and the seat position to frequently selected navigation destinations as well as frequently used media.

Well versed: the driver assistance systems

Equipped with the optional Audi pre sense front, the collision avoidance assist, and the lane departure warning, the new A3 sedan helps prevent accidents with other road users and offers a high level of safety.

The New Audi S3 Sedan & Sportback: More Sportiness, More Power, More Driving Pleasure

Characteristic design and lighting

The new S3 models display their dynamic character from the very first glance. The front is dominated by the Singleframe with its large rhombus-patterned grille and impressive air inlets, while the housings of the exterior mirrors have a gleaming aluminum look. The shoulder of the body extends in a strong line from the headlights to the rear lights. The areas below are curved inward – a new element of Audi’s design that places a stronger emphasis on the wheel arches.

Powerful drive

With 290 hp and 400 Nm of torque, the new S3 models accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.9 seconds and in conjunction with the lightning fast seven-speed S tronic gearbox towards an electronically governed top speed of 250 km/h. The driver can use the standard series Audi drive select system to make the sound of the powerful four-cylinder turbo engine even crisper.

Sporty interior & generous space

The strikingly sporty design of the new S3 models continues on the inside – with the new, compact shifter for the seven-speed S tronic and decorative aluminum or carbon inlays whose design evokes the shape of the headlights. The cockpit is focused on the driver. The distinctive air vents form a single unit with the instrument cover, underlining the sporty character.

In the middle of the instrument panel, a 10.1-inch MMI touch display with MMI Navigation Plus come as standard in the S3. It recognizes letters entered by hand and provides acoustic feedback. As an additional operating level, the infotainment can also be voice-controlled using natural language as standard.

Compared with their predecessors, the new S3 models have grown in size: The Sportback and the Sedan are three centimetres and four centimetres longer respectively. The luggage compartment has a capacity of 325 litres, and is expandable up to 1,145 litres with the Sportback when the seat bench is down.

A new generation of infotainment

The MMI operating concept of the new S3 models is powered by the third-generation modular infotainment platform (MIB 3). For lovers of high-quality audio, the standard Bang & Olufsen premium sound system with 3D sound delivers a particularly spatial soundscape.

Helpful driver assist systems

The driver assist systems in the new S3 models also demonstrate Audi’s technical expertise. Audi pre sense front, swerve assist with turn assist, and lane departure warning all have the potential to prevent accidents and are included as optional features.

Further assist systems, such as lane change and exit warnings as well as the cross-traffic and park assist systems, are available optionally as well. The Adaptive cruise control maintains the speed and distance to the vehicle in front and the efficiency assist supports an economic driving style.

Bentley Mulliner Bacalar

Ghaith Madadha
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Bentley Mulliner Bacalar

– Press Release –

FIRST CUSTOMER BACALAR W12 ENGINE COMPLETES TESTING

  • First W12 engine destined for Bacalar completes production testing at Bentley’s centre of excellence for W12 engines
  • Bentley’s W12 is the most advanced 12-cylinder engine in history
  • Producing 659 PS (650 bhp) and 900 Nm (667 lb.ft) of torque
  • W12 engine development has increased power by up to 27 per cent, torque by 38 per cent and reduced emissions by 28 per cent since 2003
  • Each engine passes through three specific test regimes before fitting to a vehicle
  • More than 100,000 W12 engines have been handbuilt at Crewe since 2002, producing more than six million horsepower

1 June 2021, Middle East – Producing 659 PS (650 bhp) and 900 Nm (667 lb.ft) of torque, the engine for the first customer Bentley Mulliner Bacalar has now completed assembly and production testing at Bentley’s centre of excellence for W12 engines.

The Bacalar spearheads a return to coachbuilding by Bentley Mulliner and features an enhanced version of Bentley’s peerless 6.0-litre, W12 TSI engine, the most advanced 12-cylinder engine in the world.

Since the first introduction of the twin-turbocharger W12 in 2003, the refinement of the engine has seen an increase of up to 27 per cent in power, 38 per cent in torque and a reduction of 28 per cent in emissions.

Each W12 engine is hand-built over 6.5 hours by a team of 45 craftspeople before undertaking a highly sophisticated test regime of over an hour via three specialist diagnostic machines during the engines assemble.

Quality Guaranteed Through Testing

The three tests that the Bacalar engine has already been put through are part of Bentley’s exceptional quality control processes.

The first test is for leakage and can be undertaken after the engine has been assembled to the point that fuel, water and oil systems can be closed – a production stage known as a “short engine”.

The leakage test is conducted by pressurising each of the systems, for fuel, oil and water individually. The different cavities are pressurised to values between 0.2 – 5.0 bar respectively and then measured whilst the pressure decays over time. The reduction in pressure versus time represents the quality of the sealing of the engine assembly.

The second and most advanced test is Cold Test. The engine is loaded on to a testbed plate and connections are made to the engine loom and all engine systems, whilst a large electric motor couples to the engine via the crankshaft.

“Motoring” the engine via the crankshaft allows the test bed to collect data from a suite of sensors. The facility measures 600 individual properties and characteristics of the engine during a 15-minute cycle. The Cold Test can confirm the engine timing is accurate and therefore achieving the best possible combustion cycle.

When the engine arrives for hot testing, a UV dye is added to the engine to help identify any leaks. The engine is cranked to build oil pressure before the ignition system is energised and then left to idle whilst the engine test technician listens for any refinement issues and checks for leaks with a UV lamp.

Engine Technology Advancements

Bentley’s legendary 6.0-litre twin-turbocharged W12, created in 2002, has evolved into the latest iteration of W12 engine used across today’s current model range. The unique W-configuration means that the engine is 24 per cent shorter than an equivalent V12, benefitting packaging and maximising usable cabin space.

The latest generation of W12 was launched in the Bentayga in 2016. A thoroughly reworked engine included a crankcase 30 per cent stronger than its predecessor, while the cylinder surfaces were coated to reduce friction and improve corrosion resistance. A low-alloy steel coating is applied to the bores using an Atmospheric Plasma Spray (APS) process.

Improvements were also made to the cooling system, with the engine featuring three separate coolant circuits. The first is designed to bring the cylinder heads up to optimum operating temperature as quickly as possible for best engine performance and low emissions. The second cools the engine block and oil system, while the third handles the thermal load of the turbochargers. Bentley’s Variable Displacement system also shuts down half of its engine under defined conditions.

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