2008 Mini Cooper John Cooper Works Confirmed Review

Production of the new MINI began in 2001 in Oxford and soon after, the Cooper Car Company in East Preston launched a wide range of John Cooper Works tuning kits and accessories for MINI. This gave MINI owners, obsessed with personalisation and performance, an even greater opportunity to create their perfect MINI. John Cooper’s achievements in world motor sport laid the foundations for the John Cooper Works brand. Now in 2008, fans of MINI and the John Cooper Works brand have something new to lust after: the new MINI John Cooper Works, hot off the production line at MINI Plant Oxford.

The MINI John Cooper Works will go on sale in the UK from 22 July 2008, priced at £20,995 on the road. First deliveries of the Clubman edition will not take place until early in 2009, when a bespoke aerodynamic kit will have been developed for that model, giving it an even more dynamic presence on UK roads. Pricing for the MINI John Cooper Works Clubman will be confirmed nearer the time.

Both Hatch and Clubman derivatives will be assembled at MINI’s Plant Oxford site. The John Cooper Works models will seamlessly integrate into the production schedule alongside other Hatch, Clubman and Convertible MINIs. Sixty per cent of MINI suppliers are UK-based and with body panels from MINI’s Plant Swindon and engines from Plant Hams Hall, the MINI Production Triangle is a thriving asset to UK manufacturing.

Fastest ever production MINI* is the torque of the town…and track
A strengthened, larger version of the award-winning twin-scroll turbocharger, partly responsible for the grin on the face of every MINI Cooper S owner, is the heart and lungs of the new MINI John Cooper Works. Developing 211hp and an impressive 260 Nm of torque, turbo boost can be extended even further to 280Nm on deployment of the car’s Overboost system. This gives the MINI John Cooper Works the highest peak torque figure ever of any open production MINI. Because full boost is available between 1,850 and 5,600rpm, the car is an outstanding performer on road or track.

A race car for the road…with a conscience
The engine, transmission and braking system of the MINI John Cooper Works Hatch and Clubman models is adapted from the MINI CHALLENGE race car. Little wonder then that a 0-62mph time of 6.5 seconds is the result of extensive performance tuning. All this and a potential 40 miles per gallon. Have your cake and eat it!

The difference is in the differential
To ensure power is transferred to the wheels with minimal fuss and maximum dynamic performance, every MINI John Cooper Works car is supplied with Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) as standard. ABS, Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD), Cornering Brake Control (CBC), Electronic Differential Lock Control (EDLC), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) and Hill Assist complete the line-up of chassis management technologies fitted to the John Cooper Works cars.

Strength of appearance
Making the MINI John Cooper Works stand out from a standard MINI Cooper S is a range of specific styling and performance features. An aerodynamic kit, bespoke 17” alloy wheels, John Cooper Works badges, large disc brakes with upgraded bright red performance calipers and large twin tailpipes denote this car has something special under the metal. A full range of John Cooper Works styling accessories is available from all MINI dealers or online at www.mini.co.uk

MINI John Cooper Works highlights
• On sale in the UK from 22 July 2008 priced at £20,995 for the Hatch model
• Engine modifications produce 211 hp and give the MINI John Cooper Works a 0-62 mph time of 6.5 seconds
• 132 hp per litre
• 40.9 mpg
• Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) as standard
• Engine, brakes, suspension and transmission tuning adapted from the MINI CHALLENGE race car

2006 MINI Cooper S with John Cooper Works GP Kit official 0-62mph time was also 6.5 seconds. UK sales of this car were limited to 454 units.

2008 Maserati GranTurismo S First Drive Review

A stellar array of supercars kicked off the 2008 Goodwood Festival of Speed on Friday with manufacturers showcasing the very latest – and fastest – performance icons. Maserati lovers and fellow spectators were treated to the first UK glimpses of the trident marque’s two latest additions: the Quattroporte S and the GranTurismo S.

The Quattroporte S, the latest incarnation of Maserati’s iconic flagship saloon, drew admiring glances thanks to its scintillating performance on the track and its inimitable style in the paddock. The Quattroporte S has a dual soul as a luxury saloon with sports-car performance and is fully responsive in all driving conditions whilst cosseting the driver in its luxurious and distinctive ‘Made in Italy’ interior. It’s equipped with a 4.7 litre V8 delivering a maximum power output of 430 CV at 7,000 rpm, accelerates from 0 to 62 mph in 5.4 seconds and has a maximum speed of 174 mph.

The GranTurismo S flew up the hill with supermodel Jodie Kidd behind the wheel on Saturday while celebrity chef and car collector, James Martin, took to the track on Sunday. The GranTurismo S is the ultimate expression of the Trident’s sportiness. Its 440 hp V8 4.7 litre engine, electro-actuated gearbox with fast MC Shift, transaxle layout, sporty exhaust and dual-cast brakes make the GranTurismo S a true ambassador for Maserati’s sporting flair, with acceleration from 0 to 62 mph in 4.9 seconds and a maximum speed of 183 mph, the highest ever reached by a standard production Maserati.

Official prices for Maserati’s latest models, which will reach the UK showrooms in September were also announced. The new Maserati Quattroporte will be on sale at £79,000 and the Quattroporte S at £85,000. Prices for the GranTurismo S will start at £89,900.

2008 Honda’s New Roadster Unveil Review

Honda will unveil a low-emission, lightweight sports study model at the British International Motor Show later this month. The striking two-seat roadster aims to couple sleek looks with exciting driving dynamics and more efficient engine technology, to give lower exhaust emissions.

The Honda OSM (for Open Study Model), was designed by Honda’s R&D facility in Offenbach, Germany. It’s the latest example of the young talent being developed within Honda’s design studios in Europe – following the Honda Small Hybrid Sports Concept (Geneva 2007) and the Accord Tourer Concept (Frankfurt 2007).

At present, there are no plans for this design study model to enter production, although Honda will gather feedback from customers at the show to guide any future developments.

Sitting on sporty six-spoke alloy wheels, the OSM has a slippery, aerodynamic exterior to minimise drag. A wide, sloping rear end incorporates a narrow rear light strip, which wraps around the rump of the car. At the front, a gaping front grille sits between angular headlights that stretch from nose of the bonnet to the top of the wheel arches.

The car will be revealed during the Honda press conference on Tuesday, 22 July at 10.30am, on the Honda stand in the North Hall.

Stand stars
Joining the OSM on the Honda stand will be the FCX Clarity – Honda’s hydrogen fuel cell production car – making its UK show debut. Last month, the first customer car rolled off the line in Japan, and deliveries take place during July. The zero-emission cars are being introduced first in California, before a launch in Japan later this year.

The CR-Z – Honda’s lightweight hybrid sportscar – can be seen for the first time in the UK at this year’s show. The low emission coupe has been confirmed for production and forms an important part of Honda’s commitment to hybrid technology.

These two models are accompanied by the full current range of Honda cars – including an Accord suspended upside down from the ceiling to reflect the recent skydiving advertising campaign for the D-sector challenger.

The Power of Dreamscape
Honda has also taken over the Live Action Arena at ExCel, renaming it ‘Dreamscape’ for the duration of the British Motor Show. This arena will house performances that tell the unique story of Honda, using cars, motorcycles, dancers and even robots!

Helping Honda celebrate its 60th birthday, a cast of actors, drivers and riders will showcase over 40 different products from Honda’s history. ASIMO, Honda’s advanced humanoid robot, will also show off its latest skills, including a new ability to run.

To compliment the high-energy show, urban free-runners will burst onto the scene with an energetic re-enactment in the spirit of the latest TV advert. The arena comprises of a 50 square metre tarmac area with a stage at one end and tiered seating for 2,500 people, plus three projection screen, a super-sound system and live music.

Each Dreamscape performance will last 20 minutes followed by 10 minutes viewing time, where visitors can get close to the stars of the show. There will be at least four shows per day – plus an exclusive premiere on press day (22 July) at 15.00.

Show times (Public days)

11.00
13.00
15.00
17.00

Greener Driving Pavilion
Honda’s environment stand, made from bamboo and other natural materials, provides the ideal surroundings for another public showing of Honda’s clean-living Civic Hybrid, which emits just 109g/km of CO2.

The stand itself will tell the story of Honda’s history of developing cleaner technology for all its products; from 4-stroke marine engines and more efficient generators, to hydrogen fuel cell cars that produce zero emissions.

Visitors to the Honda section of the show will receive an audio guide via headphones, which will provide detailed information on the different areas of the stand.

Freefall with Honda
Showgoers will also be able to experience Honda’s latest TV advert – Jump – in a vertical skydive simulator which will be located between the main hall and the Dreamscape arena on the east side of ExCel.

Honda’s cleaner cars – a brief history

1972 The CVCC engine is developed for the Civic – a low-emission petrol engine that meets strict US regulations

1993 Honda wins prestigious World Solar Challenge with the solar-powered Type Dream car

1996 Honda EV Plus electric vehicle – capable of carrying four adults nearly 140miles on a single charge – is presented to the public

1997 We unveil the Civic GX, which runs on natural gas and is available to buy in America. It becomes the world’s cleanest car

1999 Honda launches the Insight – a petrol-electric hybrid car capable of 83mpg on the combined cycle, with emissions of just 80g/km of CO2

2003 Civic IMA hybrid saloon is launched, with CO2 emissions of 116g/km

2006 New Civic Hybrid goes on sale, with fuel economy of 61.4mpg (combined) and emissions of 109g/km

2007 A lightweight hybrid sportscar, named CR-Z Concept, is revealed at the Tokyo Motor Show, and a version is confirmed for production

2008 Honda unveils OSM study model at the British International Motor Show.
The hydrogen fuel cell-powered Honda FCX Clarity rolls off the production line in Japan, and leasing of these zero emission vehicles starts in the US

2009 A much more affordable hybrid car from Honda is due to go on sale in the UK in the Spring – making cleaner motoring technology available to more people

2008 Suzuki Showcases @ UK Motor Show Review

Suzuki’s vibrant Way of Life! philosophy is represented by one of the UK’s youngest model ranges at the British International Motor Show. More than that, there are two exciting design concepts making their UK debut, plus exhibits from Suzuki’s Swift Sport Cup one-make rally series, its market-leading motorcycle range and its impressive all-terrain vehicle and marine engine line-ups.

On four wheels or two, on the road, off the road and on the water, Suzuki is at the forefront of creating vehicles and engines that deliver excitement, style and performance, while fully pushing its green credentials by addressing the need for lower emissions and greater fuel efficiency.

Suzuki; now in its 99th year, is exhibiting at the show for the first time with the Kizashi concept taking centre stage; a powerful design study that provides a platform for its entry into the European D-segment in 2010. Bold and dynamic, it is a pure expression of the excitement Suzuki is bringing to its new generation of cars.

The Kizashi Concept marks the beginning of the third phase of Suzuki’s global strategy, themed on ‘Status’. It follows on from phase one, ‘Sports’, as expressed by Swift, and phase two, ‘Family’, launched by the new Splash.

Concept Kizashi was first unveiled at Frankfurt in 2007, initiating a design theme that has since been interpreted in two further concept vehicles – Kizashi 2 and Kizashi 3 – presented at the Tokyo and New York motor shows. Kizashi is a Japanese word meaning ‘prelude’ or ‘foretaste’, and so fittingly expresses the concept’s pivotal position as a standard-bearer for Suzuki’s progress into a new market.

More modest in scale, but no less eye-catching, the A-STAR concept is Suzuki’s vision for a new city car that is big on character with clean, efficient performance. Styling cues illustrate both Japanese and Indian cultural elements. The A-STAR concept has been produced by Suzuki’s wholly owned subsidiary in the sub-continent.

The complete current Suzuki model range will also be on view, featuring the recently launched Splash, Swift, Swift Sport, SX4 and Grand Vitara – all new within the past three years – plus the redoubtable, high-value Jimny compact 4×4.

Suzuki’s Swift Sport Cup, a one-make championship designed to promote new rallying talent, will also be represented, together with the best of Suzuki’s motorcycle, ATV and marine outboard engine ranges.

The world of motorcycles will be represented by the all-conquering GSX-R1000 sports bike; the RM-Z450, the world’s first production fuel-injected motocross machine; and the ultimate cruiser, the Intruder M1800R.

More sporting excellence can be witnessed in the limited edition LT-Z400 QuadSport Relentless Special and the mighty DF300 marine outboard engine, which boasts the highest power-to-weight ratio in its class.

2008 Lotus Eco Elise Eco Warrior Review

Lotus unveils the Eco Elise technology demonstrator at the British Motor Show, capitalising on great strides forward in green technology. The Eco Elise project promotes a different perspective on “green”, one which does not revolve solely around tailpipe CO2. This holistic approach is in keeping with the progressive Lotus culture, driving Lotus to become the world’s green automotive consultancy.

Sustainable materials, hemp, eco wool and sisal have been developed for body panels and trim and, combined with hi-tech water based paint solutions, showcase new affordable green technologies. The green credentials of the technology on show in the Eco Elise have been analysed throughout the lifecycle of the car.

A green gear change display has been integrated into the dashboard to promote greener driving as well as a weight reduction programme, illustrating the holistic approach taken. The energy expended to manufacture the car has been evaluated, working to the 3R’s – Reduce, Re-use and Recycle.

Mike Kimberley, CEO of Group Lotus plc commented “This Eco Elise is a great example of the advanced and affordable green technologies Lotus is developing. We are at the cutting edge of environmental technology and are determined to push forward with our green agenda. The Lotus brand values of lightweight, fuel efficient, and high performance are more relevant today than they ever have been. We are keen to ensure that Lotus as a company and its products offer an ethical, green option that appeals to our customers”.

In keeping with the “performance through light weight” philosophy, the Eco Elise weighs 32 kg (70.5 lbs) less than the standard Elise S, which means that the efficient Elise S engine in the Eco Elise will give higher fuel economy figures and even better performance.

Dramatic improvements to the culture and operations at Lotus has rewarded the company with staggering reductions in energy (Electricity 14%, Gas 30%) and water (11%) consumed across the Hethel headquarters in 2007, compared to 2006. These advances have coincided with improvements in recycling, with 57% of waste product now being recycled.

The new green materials sourced for this car have been carefully studied to ensure that each technology used reduces the environmental impact of the vehicle. The life of the components has been analysed; during the production stage, in-use and at the end of the vehicle’s life. The technology used aims to offer lower emissions of both solvents and CO2 in the lifecycle of the vehicle, with reductions in energy consumed during manufacture.

The Eco Elise will be displayed in the Greener Driving Pavilion at the British International Motor Show from 23rd July until 3rd August. The project displays affordable green technology that is intended to be feasible and production viable in the near term future.

The Lotus Eco Elise in more detail
The project focuses on developments in:
Sustainable materials
Cleaner manufacturing processes
Renewable energy generation
Reducing carbon miles
Efficient driving techniques
Weight reduction

The renewable materials have been incorporated into the project, with hemp, eco wool and sisal providing natural, biodegradable engineering materials. Cleaner manufacturing processes have been sought, utilising the latest water based paint technology. Using this paint system saves energy and reduces emissions of solvents from the paint shop. Solar panels have been set into the hemp hard top to help power the electrical systems and give a means of renewable energy generation.

With the use of locally farmed hemp, the carbon miles to produce the Eco Elise are reduced, in keeping with the holistic approach to this vehicle. The Eco Elise puts an emphasis on efficient driving techniques by using an “economy” gear change display to improve fuel efficiency and promote greener driving. The car has undergone a weight reduction programme to add a little extra lightness, assisting in more economical, greener driving.

Sustainable materials
Sustainable hemp technical fabrics have been used as the primary constituent in the high quality “A” class composite body panels and spoiler. The renewable hemp has exceptional material properties that make for a very strong fibre. Historically hemp has been used in the manufacture of rope, illustrating the great strength of the material.

The hemp fibres have also been used in the manufacture of the lightweight Lotus designed seats. An additional benefit of using hemp is that it is a natural resource that requires relatively low energy to manufacture and absorbs CO2 whilst growing as a plant through natural photosynthesis. This hemp material is used with a polyester resin to form a hybrid composite, however it is hoped that a fully recyclable composite resin will be viable in the short-term future.

The Eco Elise seats are upholstered in a durable yet, biodegradable woollen fabric that has been given the EU Flower certificate to exemplify its environmental credentials. This new material is ethically produced and does not use any dyes or harmful processing. In fact the colour is created from the selection of sheep breeds used to produce the wool for the yarn, which increases the natural feel of the wool and reduces the processing of the cloth.

Sisal is a renewable crop that, like hemp, is used for its strong material properties. Sisal has been used for the carpets in the Eco Elise, as it is a tough, abrasion resistant material. The use of these materials illustrates the capability at Lotus of utilising new, advanced materials and the flexibility of the manufacturing facilities.

Cleaner manufacturing processes
Whilst improving the green credentials of the Lotus production facilities, the Lotus Paint Facility, in partnership with Du Pont has developed a totally water-based paint system. This paint solution includes primer, colour coat and lacquer, and it is the first time that it has been possible to hand spray a water based “A” class production paint finish.

In using this progressive water based technology, Lotus is able to achieve impressive savings in energy consumption due to the low cure temperature this paint requires. An additional benefit of this paint system is the reduction in emissions of solvents, all of which contribute to substantial cost savings for Lotus. This is a result of the unique collaboration with Du Pont in pushing forward low-volume paint spraying technology. This technology is anticipated to be available in production cars in the near future.

Renewable energy generation
The hemp hard top on the Eco Elise has two flexible solar panels neatly embedded in the roof, contributing power to the electrical systems and saving energy that would be drained from the engine.

The solar panels have been integrated into the hard top to illustrate the feasibility of applying this technology. This application shows the installation of solar panels into a composite “A” class panel with a double curvature. Using this technology on a greater number of panels would make it possible to provide more power, especially on a larger vehicle.

Reduction in carbon miles
The hemp fibres have been farmed in East Anglia, thus reducing the carbon miles incurred in the production of this Elise. Lotus Manufacturing has component manufacturing facilities and a paint facility at its headquarters in Hethel, Norfolk, with another manufacturing site a short distance away in Norwich. The company operates a carefully managed logistics system operating between sites to improve efficiency, reduce costs and carbon miles. This is a Kanban driven barcode system that has been adopted by key suppliers. The process also uses packaging that is recycled many times over to eliminate waste.

Efficient driving techniques
Lotus cars have red shift lights to help drivers extract the maximum performance from the engine. However for the Eco Elise, Lotus designed software has been developed to assist drivers in maximising the fuel efficiency of the engine. A green gear shift display has been integrated into the instrument panel to ensure that gears are changed at the optimum point to reduce emissions and save fuel.

Weight reduction
“Performance through light weight” is so synonymous with Lotus. The reduction in mass improves the handling and braking performance and also reduces the effort required to accelerate the car. The weight reduction philosophy has even extended to the audio system with an exceptionally lightweight stereo and speaker system from Alpine saving 1.5 kg (3.3 lbs). The system uses MP3/ iPod technology in a sleek modern design.

The Eco Elise uses special lightweight wheels that reduce the unsprung mass and contribute a weight saving of approximately 15.8 kg (34.8 lbs) over the already super light Elise wheels. The weight saving programme for the Eco Elise has resulted in a total saving of around 32 kg (70.5 lbs) over the feather light Elise S, which reduces the fuel required to drive the car.

2008 Ferrari Adds Diversity to Goodwood Festival of Speed Review

Ferrari will be present at the Goodwood Festival of Speed once again this year with a diverse array of exotic and beautiful cars on display, including the UK debut of the performance class-leading 430 Scuderia in Fiorano Ferrari livery and a truly unique 612 Scaglietti which recently completed a 13,000 km journey around India on the Ferrari Magic India Discovery Drive which took place from March to May earlier this year. Together with a stunningly capable 599 GTB Fiorano, these cars will be located in The Sunday Times Supercar Paddock and will be the main attractions of The Sunday Times Supercar Run which takes place twice each day, in the early morning and around mid-day.

The 430 Scuderia is Ferrari’s latest high-performance mid-engined V8 car, with an incredible 510hp from a naturally-aspirated 4.3 litre engine, and several weight-saving initiatives which reduce the weight of the car by 100kg over the F430 Coupe. The 430 Scuderia is the first Ferrari to combine the dynamic advantages of the Electronic Differential of the F430 Coupe with the F1-Trac traction control system which made its debut on the 599 GTB Fiorano in 2006. The car also features several aerodynamic innovations, such as the patented “base bleed” which was developed by the FXX team and makes a significant contribution to the car’s overall dynamic and aerodynamic capabilities.

This particular 430 Scuderia will be appearing in dynamic Fiorano Ferrari livery and is one of five 430 Scuderia cars which Ferrari GB makes available for Ferrari customers in the UK through the exclusive Fiorano Ferrari membership to drive at some of the best and most challenging Formula One circuits in the UK and around Europe. Fiorano Ferrari members also benefit from several other exclusive opportunities, such as VIP Ferrari hospitality at the Goodwood Festival of Speed and membership is open to any Ferrari owners in the UK. For more information about Fiorano Ferrari, please visit www.fioranoferrari.com

Following it in the Supercar Run is a very special 612 Scaglietti in a unique livery which it wore on a recent tour of India, covering over 13,000 km over 72 days on a journey which saw more than 50 journalists from all over the world participate in another of Ferrari’s grand adventures of grand trans-continental travel. The car received only a few minor modifications from standard to cope with the often rough terrain as it travelled around the Indian sub-continent: a ride height increased by 4mm and aluminium underbody protection. This 612 Scaglietti also features a new stratified electrochromic panoramic roof which lends the interior an unparalleled sense of space and airiness, with three levels of glass tint that can be selected to suit varying levels of sunlight.

Ferrari’s third icon of the Supercar Run is the acclaimed 599 GTB Fiorano – voted EVO’s “Car of the Year” and the only GT car granted a 5-star status by Autocar, in addition to a host of other similar awards from the international media. The 599 GTB Fiorano has a development of the iconic Enzo’s 6.0 litre V12 engine, and generates an earth-spinning 620hp which propels the car to 60mph in only 3.7 seconds, while still retaining the comfort and exclusivity of this flagship performance two seater that carries on the tradition started with the similarly iconic 550 Maranello and 575M.

Also making a star appearance at this year’s Festival of Speed is the Scuderia Ferrari Marlboro F1 team, with F1 test driver Marc Gene thrilling crowds with demonstration runs in the F2007 car which Kimi Raikkonen and Felipe Massa drove to win the F1 Constructors and Drivers Championship last year. With both titles in 2007, Ferrari extended its record tally of Championships to an incredible 15 Constructors’ titles and 15 Drivers’ titles, strengthening the Prancing Horse’s continued position as the most successful F1 team of all time.

2008 Tesla Adds Ex-Chrysler VP to Team Review

Mike Donoughe, a veteran auto industry executive, has joined Tesla Motors as Executive Vice President, Vehicle Engineering and Manufacturing. In this role, Mike will be responsible for manufacturing, supply chain, quality and operations for the company. In addition, Mike will oversee both the Roadster Program and the ‘Model S’ program, a 4 door, 5 passenger electric sports sedan.

Donoughe, 49, was previously Vice President of ‘Project D’ at Chrysler, where he led the redesign of their global mid-size vehicle portfolio. Mike spent 24 years at Chrysler, where he led various product creation efforts, including the Stow N Go minivans, Jeep Wrangler and Dodge Ram programs. Mike also spent 3 years with Mercedes Benz in Stuttgart as Director of passenger car development, M and R Class, and is recognized as one of the top engineers in the auto industry.

“Mike is a very valuable addition to our leadership team. His track record, expertise and leadership will help Tesla as we prepare for significant growth.” said Tesla CEO Ze’ev Drori. “Mike’s immediate priorities are to ensure that production of the Tesla Roadster runs smoothly and efficiently and to drive the continued development of our next car, the ‘Model S’ a 4 door, 5 passenger sports sedan.”

“I joined the Tesla team because I am enthusiastic about Tesla’s objective to integrate their disruptive EV technology into mainstream automobiles,” said Mike Donoughe, “Tesla is creating vehicles that appeal to customers looking for environmentally sound & energy efficient solutions without compromising on functionality and performance. I look forward to contributing to these efforts as a part of the Tesla team.”

Mike has been married for over 26 years to Shelley and has 3 grown children – David (24), Kaitlin (22), and Kelly (21). Mike will be based at Tesla’s headquarters in San Carlos, CA.

2008 Smart fortwo Micro Hybrid Drive Review

From October 2008 the standard equipment of the 45 kW/61 bhp and 52 kW/71 bhp petrol-engined smart fortwo models will include micro hybrid drive (mhd) technology with a user-friendly automatic start-stop system. This reduces the NEDC consumption of the two naturally aspirated engines by an average of 8 percent. In city traffic fuel savings of almost 20 percent are even possible. Furthermore, from the autumn of 2008 the smart fortwo cdi will be equipped with a closed diesel particulate filter that almost completely eradicates particulate emissions. The equipment of the innovative two-seater is being upgraded by an instrument cluster with a new design featuring enhanced indicating instruments and new door net pockets among other things. Two new colours “grey metallic” and “rally red” are a fresh new highlight, as are the optional new sporty six-spoke alloy wheels.

smart is resolutely continuing its philosophy and making the smart fortwo even more environmentally friendly and attractive: further reduced consumption, even more uncomplicated driving pleasure and upgraded equipment will characterise the comfortable two-seater in future.

45 kW and 52 kW petrol engines with micro hybrid drive (mhd) as standard
The smart micro hybrid drive (mhd) automatic start-stop function has proven itself since 2007, although to date it has only been available for the 52kW/71 bhp model. To reduce the fuel costs for the smart fortwo, the two petrol models with 45 kW/61 bhp and 52 kW/71 bhp engines are now being fitted with the start-stop automatic function as standard**. This reduces the consumption of both versions in the combined cycle by around eight percent (to 4.3* litres, NEDC). CO2 emissions are reduced to 103* grams per kilometre. In urban traffic with frequent stop-and-go situations savings of almost 20 percent are even possible. 7 out of 10 customers in Europewho opt for a petrol engine will now drive with this environmentally-friendly technology.

smart has realised the idea behind the automatic start-stop system in a particularly clever way: the control electronics shut down the engine as soon as the driver brakes and the vehicle’s speed falls below 8 km/h – for example when approaching traffic lights.

The engine starts again in the fraction of a second as soon as the driver releases the brake pedal. In this way the fuel consumption is reduced even further. The smart fortwo’s automated manual transmission is perfectly tuned to the automatic start-stop system. The driver only needs to accelerate and brake – no clutchwork or gear changing is ever needed. This fully automatic function of the smart fortwo with mhd technology makes it easy to save fuel and emissions.

Closed diesel particulate filter for the CO2 champion smart fortwo cdi
smart is also improving the environmental footprint of the diesel model in model year 2009 with a new closed diesel particulate filter instead of the open version that was previously used. The new system reduces the particulate mass in the exhaust gas to a minimum and, thanks to intelligent engine control, it is virtually maintenance-free with a long filter service life. With combined consumption of 3.4 litres per 100 kilometres (NEDC), the smart fortwo cdi with a 33kW/45 bhp engine continues to be the world’s production car with the lowest consumption and, with emissions of 88g/km, it is still the CO2 champion. In future it will also hold a top position in terms of particulate emissions.

Fresh colours and new sporty alloy wheels
smart is also freshening up its palette with striking new colours. The elegantly pleasing “grey metallic” and the sporty intensive “rally red” are new in the portfolio. This means that customers still have a choice of six colours, which enable a total of twelve colour combinations in conjunction with the two colours for the tridion safety cell.

New sporty six-spoke alloy wheels in titanium silver measuring 175/55 R 15 at the front and 195/50 R 15 at the rear are optionally available. The new alloy wheels are also available in a chrome look as an accessory product.

Interior features new highlights
To match the new “rally red” paintwork the colour “design red” has now been updated and harmonised for the upholstery and fabric elements in the interior of the passion line. A redesigned instrument cluster with an enhanced LCD display will be an eye-catching feature on the instrument panel in future.

The fuel gauge is now positioned centrally at the bottom and is supplemented by a permanently displayed digital clock and exterior temperature indicator. Further new equipment details include net pockets in the doors on the driver and passenger side which offer greater storage space.

2009 BMW 3 Series In Detail Review

It is the epitome of sporty flair in its segment and for years it has maintained the leading position as the mostly widely sold premium vehicle in the world. Now the BMW 3 Series sets out to extend its lead even further. Specific design modifications, a further refined interior design, the new generation of the optional operating concept BMW iDrive, new services provided by BMW ConnectedDrive, a revised range of engines and innovations in the areas of drive technology, safety and comfort make both the new BMW 3 Series Saloon and the new BMW 3 Series Touring more attractive than ever before.

With rear-wheel drive, harmonious axle load distribution, outstanding steering precision and highly sophisticated chassis technology, the BMW 3 Series sets unsurpassed standards for driving dynamics in its segment. More than ever before, this unique driving pleasure can now be combined with an awareness of economy and minimised pollutant emissions. Thanks to BMW EfficientDynamics the new BMW 3 Series achieves significantly lower fuel consumption and exhaust emission levels with each of the ten engine variations available than those of the relevant competitors in the premium segment.

The new features in the powertrain field include the further optimised electronically controlled all-wheel drive system BMW xDrive. This intelligent all-wheel drive system which variably distributes the drive force between front and rear wheels to enhance driving dynamics as well as ride stability and traction can now be combined with five engine types. The new BMW 320d xDrive is available as a Saloon and Touring model.

Another new feature for both body versions: the BMW 318d – by far the most efficient vehicle of its category with an average fuel consumption of just 4.7 litres per 100 kilometres – is now also available with a 6-speed automatic transmission.

Parallel to the market launch of the new BMW 3 Series Saloon and the new BMW 3 Series Touring, a new 7-speed sports automatic transmission with double clutch will be presented for the Coupé and the Convertible of the series. This allows further improved acceleration figures in the models BMW 335i Coupé and BMW 335i Convertible, and combines this added dynamic performance – as compared to the standard 6-speed manual transmission – with the comfort features of an automatic transmission.

The 7-speed sports automatic transmission with double clutch shifts without interrupting traction.

2009 Bentley Continental Flying Spur Speed Unveiled Review

The 2009 Bentley Continental Flying Spur and Continental Flying Spur Speed will make their official international motor show debuts at ExCel (London) later this month.

“We are delighted that the next chapter of the Flying Spur success story will begin in our home market and at the British International Motor Show, notably as our British customers have played a key part in making this Bentley the most sought-after 12-cylinder luxury saloon in the world,” comments Stuart McCullough, Member of the Board for Sales and Marketing.

With its combination of exhilarating performance, luxury, craftsmanship and four-door practicality the 12-cylinder Continental Flying Spur has been at the forefront of Bentley’s revitalisation since its launch in 2005 and the range is now refined and expanded with two highly distinctive models.

The instantly recognisable style of the Flying Spur undergoes a subtle evolution with changes to the front and rear design. The new, more upright grille and bolder lower air intake accentuate the distinctive Bentley profile, while a new rear bumper delivers a sleeker and more aggressive appearance.

The 552bhp Continental Flying Spur offers enhanced levels of comfort and choice. A comprehensive range of noise-absorbent measures including acoustic glazing ensure that cabin refinement, already a hallmark of the Continental Flying Spur, is best in class.

Bentley’s famous commitment to the highest quality of craftsmanship and customer personalisation is highlighted with an enhanced choice of beautifully crafted marquetry and chrome inlays. In addition, seat piping, a traditional Bentley feature, has also been introduced with two new hide colours.

Joining the Continental Flying Spur in London is the 600bhp Flying Spur Speed which unleashes the potent performance and intense levels of driver engagement of its highly acclaimed stablemate, the Continental GT Speed.

Inspired by Bentley’s legendary ‘Speed’ models that first appeared in 1923, the Flying Spur Speed offers a range of headline performance figures including a 0-60mph sprint time of 4.5 seconds and a top speed of 200mph.

The Flying Spur Speed is distinguished by unique design cues which underline its performance credentials, including dark-tinted radiator and air intake grilles, wider rifled exhaust tail pipes and unique 20-inch multi-spoke alloys.

Both Continental Flying Spur models can now be specified with Bentley Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC). The ACC uses a long-range radar sensor, mounted in the lower front grille, to monitor the road ahead for other vehicles. When a slower moving vehicle is detected, the system automatically adjusts braking and acceleration to maintain a ‘time gap’, as selected by the driver.

The ‘time gap’ also controls the vehicle dynamic response. The larger the time gap the more relaxed the acceleration and braking, allowing the driver to tune the ACC system to suit their preferred driving style or to the prevailing traffic conditions.

Bentley Motors will also highlight its unique partnership with the renowned British hi-fi manufacturer, Naim. Designed exclusively for Bentley and available as a further option for both the Continental Flying Spur and Flying Spur Speed, the Naim system features an 1100 Watt amplifier (the most powerful in a production car) and 15 custom-built speakers. A next-generation Digital Signal Processor further enhances the listening experience. The Naim system will also be available on all Bentley models from August 2008 onward