BMW 7-Series by Tuningwerk Spy Shot

BMW 7-Series by Tuningwerk Spy Shot : Tuningwerk German tuner has a package for the BMW 7 Series L (long wheelbase edition) that dials output up to 720 PS (530 kW / 710 hp).

The 720 HP version BMW 7 Series will sprint from 0 to 100 Km/h in just 3.5 seconds and will be able to reach a top speed of 350 Km/h, while the 530 HP variant dismisses the 0 to 100 acceleration tim in 4.2 seconds and can hit a maximum speed of 310 Km/h.

The 120 kg diet was attained by the use of carbon as well as other factors including lightweight carbon-ceramic brakes and a new sport car  exhaust system. Total curb weight with half a tank of fuel is 2,030 kg (4466 lbs).

Pricing starts from €169,800 for the GT Edition and from €198,000 for the RS Edition.




Press Release

WHEN COMFORT AND PERFORMANCE GO HAND IN HAND
BMW NR 7s Long Version with 720 HP

There is no doubt that 7 Series is the BMW absolute and unconditional leader, even when it comes in the Long Version. Needless to say, when the Bavarian-based TUNINGWERK company from Puchheim in Munich area tries its hand at this supercar, we can most definitely say it is a very special event.

Engine power - that is, in two power amplifier stages - is a top priority for this well-established blue-and-white bannered "tuning smithery". We are talking here first and foremost about greater power augmentation. After a little revitalization at TUNINGWERK the 7 Series is going by the NR 7s nickname and features almost breathtaking power specifications. Quite obviously, that this upgrade was aimed at building up horsepower. It produces 720 BHP with the maximum torque of 1,090 Nm. The flat-out is reached at 350 km/hr as well as the really "smooth" acceleration from 0 to 100 km/hr in just 3.5 seconds with the weight of roughly 2 tons seem very convincing.

Equipped with a 5- or 6-gear sport automatic transmission, the unique CarbonCeramic brake system featuring 396 mm ceramic brake disks for the front axle and only slightly smaller ones for the back axle saves about 70 kg revolving mass in a streamlined teamwork with wheel disks and tyres. TUNINGWERK shook off another 50 kg (totalof 120 kg) without compromising the absolutely fully equipped Fonds Entertainment System! The weight reduction was achieved by means of the lightweight design sports exhaust system, as well as CarbonHybrid car front and body sills. With the gas tank only half full the Long Version F02 weighs 2,030 kg and will cost its proud owner 198,000 euros.

The "small-scale" power augmentation will also make sense bringing forward such advantages as 530 HP with maximum torque of 740 Nm, maximum speed of 310 km/h and acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.2 seconds. The vehicle costs 169,800 euros with a 6-gear sport automatic transmission (also available with all-wheel drive) and a HighPerformance steel brake system.

You'll be drooling when you browse through technical highlights of NR 7s. As Oscar Wilde said, I am always satisfied with the best.

2012 Golf R U.S. prices

Volkswagen has releases the Golf R pricing for U.S. market. The three-door Golf R comes with a sticker price of $33,990 and a solid set of equipment including 18-inch wheels. The Sunroof and Navigation models start at $35,490 for the three-door hatch and $36,090 for the five-door.

2012 Golf R is powered by 2.0 liter TSI engine which develops 256 hp (191 kW). If compare to the euro-spec 266 hp (199kW) version the U.S.-spec version has slightly less output. In terms of efficiency, the U.S.-spec version offers an EPA estimated fuel economy of 18 mpg city and 23 mpg highway.

Other key stats: 18-inch by 7.5-inch alloy wheels wear 225/40 all-season tires in standard trim; all four wheels are driven through a 4Motion system with a Haldex center differential; suspension is strut-type up front and multi-link in the rear; and three-channel ABS handles stopping through 13.6-inch front and 12.2-inch rear vented disc brakes. Only a six-speed manual transmission is offered; no automatic posers need apply.




Press Release

VOLKSWAGEN ANNOUNCES PRICING FOR THE NEW GOLF R: $33,990 FOR THE TWO-DOOR MODEL

With 256 horsepower, the Golf R is the most powerful VW sports performance vehicle ever sold in the U.S.-and Volkswagen's new performance icon is now available in two- and four-doors

* • Well-equipped two-door model starts at $33,990
* • Sunroof and Navigation models have MSRPs of $35,490 (two-door) and $36,090 (four-door)
* • Most powerful Golf production engine to be sold in the U.S.
* • Six-speed manual transmission and all-wheel drive standard
* • Predicted fuel economy of 19 mpg city, 27 mpg highway
* • Bi-Xenon headlights and LED DRLs standard on all models
* • On-sale early 2012 as a 2012 model, in both two- and four-door versions

Herndon, VA - Intelligent downsizing. That's what the new Golf R represents. The heir to the 2004 and 2008 Golf R32 models, the new R manages to have more power, more performance, and consume less gasoline than its illustrious iconic performance forebears. And it offers all this for just $33,990, plus destination, for the two-door Golf R model.

Whereas the R32 models used 3.2-liter VR6 engines, the new Golf R is fitted with a high-output version of the award-winning turbocharged 2.0-liter TSI® engine. This engine makes 256 horsepower, six more than the VR6 fitted into the 2008 R32. As well as offering more power and performance, the Golf R is also more economical, with manufacturer estimated fuel economy of 19 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway compared with EPA estimated mileage of 18 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway for the prior model.

Like the previous R32 models, the Golf R is equipped with Volkswagen's 4Motion® all-wheel-drive system: the latest generation of this system can divert up to 100 percent of the torque to the rear wheels, if needed. All Golf R models sold in the U.S will be equipped with a close-ratio six-speed manual transmission. For the first time, the Golf R will be available in two- and four-door guises as well as in two trim levels: well-equipped Golf R and luxurious Golf R with Sunroof and Navigation.

Exterior

The Golf R is a refined vehicle that's marked by clean, minimalist lines that are mixed with sharp, intricate detailing. The style is sleek and contemporary, yet timeless and elegant.

The changes made for the Golf R are subtle yet striking, in keeping with the car's mission of providing sophisticated and understated performance. Up front, there's a new bumper that incorporates LED daytime running lights and three large black air intakes that help cool the engine. The radiator grille is finished in gloss black and features an "R" logo that sets the front of the car apart from the rest of the Golf range. Unique Bi-Xenon headlamps that are framed in black also have the Adaptive Front-lighting System (AFS), whereby the lights turn with the steering wheel, up to a maximum of 15 degrees, to provide better visibility around bends.

The car's streamlined profile continues toward the rear, with a pair of subtly flared side skirts running along the lower edge of the body. The new 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels expose gloss-black-painted brake calipers that incorporate the "R" logo; the exterior mirrors also have a gloss-black finish.

There's further differentiation at the back of the R, where a new rear bumper was needed to accommodate the central twin pipes for the exhaust system, similar to the tailpipes fitted on the original 2004 R32. The bumper also features a gloss-black diffuser. The back end is highlighted by a slightly larger tail spoiler than that of the GTI and a subtle "R" badge. The R is available in five colors: Rising Blue, Candy White, Carbon Steel Gray, Black, and Tornado Red.

Interior

Just like the exterior, the interior has been enhanced to make it even more purposeful and demonstrate its role at the apex of the Golf range.

On opening the door, the driver and passenger will note aluminum "R" kickplates on the sills, before sliding into deep bucket seats. These are adorned with an "R" logo on the head restraint and are upholstered in supple leather.

The squared-off steering wheel is also swathed in leather, with gloss-black-finished spokes that carry through from the exterior design. Other R-specific features include: blue pointers for the instruments; the shifter knob with an "R" motif; aluminum trim for the dashboard and doors; and aluminum pedals.

The Golf R comes extremely well equipped, even in base form. Fully automatic dual-zone climate control is standard, along with a multifunction steering wheel, Premium VIII audio with eight speakers, aux-in, a Media Device Interface with iPod® connectivity, and Bluetooth®. The Golf R with Sunroof and Navigation adds the RNS 315 touchscreen navigation system; a 300-watt Dynaudio® sound system; a sunroof; and Keyless Entry with push-button start.

Just like the rest of the Golf range, the R is practical and versatile. The high-lifting tailgate provides easy ingress and egress to a load area that offers 15.3 cubic feet of space. And with the folding rear seat back split 60/40-and featuring a pass-through-there's real flexibility for load carrying.

Engine and Transmission

The Golf R is fitted with the most powerful Golf production engine ever seen in the U.S. The car uses an updated version of the EA113 2.0-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine, rather than the EA888 engine used in the current GTI. Like the EA888, the EA113 uses direct fuel injection and double overhead camshafts with variable intake timing. Because the Golf R develops more power and torque than the GTI-256 horsepower and 243 lb-ft compared with 200 hp and 207 lb-ft-a number of changes have been made. The cylinder block is reinforced, stronger connecting rods are fitted, and a BorgWarner K04 turbocharger is used, boosting at up to 17 psi. With manufacturer estimated fuel economy ratings of 19 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway, this is the most fuel-efficient Golf R model ever sold in the U.S.

The Golf R is offered with a slick shifting, close-ratio six-speed manual transmission that features a magnesium selector housing and cable operation with very short lever movements. The latest-generation 4Motion all-wheel drive is also standard on the Golf R. This system uses a Haldex® clutch pack that continuously varies the amount of torque sent to the rear wheels, depending on whether slippage is detected at the front. In normal driving, the Golf R acts like a front-wheel-drive machine, which has benefits for fuel economy. However, if needed, up to 100 percent of the torque can be directed to the rear wheels for traction on more challenging surfaces.

Suspension

The Golf R has unique calibration for its suspension, even compared with the GTI. At the front, it uses a damper-strut layout with lower control arms and a stiff, tubular anti-roll bar that combine to help keep the front tires planted during hard cornering, reducing body roll and heightening steering feedback.

At the back, there's a compact multilink independent layout that features coil springs, telescopic dampers, and an anti-roll bar. The four-link layout features three lateral control arms-the spring mounting, the track rod and upper control arm, and a trailing link at each wheel. Suspension assemblies are attached by way of a rear-axle subframe and, as at the front, rubber and metal mountings that are soft in torsion but stiff radially are used to help ensure the anti-roll bar responds immediately and suppresses body roll effectively.

The spring and damper units are located separately on each side of the car at the rear, with the coil spring bearing directly on the trailing link and the damper attached to the wheel hub assembly. This enables the suspension geometry on the compression stroke to generate a toe steering effect that maintains neutral behavior, or some slight understeer, in all driving and load-carrying situations. It also helps ensure excellent driving stability on rough, uneven road surfaces. Stylish 18-inch-diameter aluminum-alloy wheels are shod with 225/40 all-season performance tires.

Steering and Brakes

The Golf R uses a third-generation electro-mechanical power steering system that is able to vary the feel of the steering to suit the speed and driving situation. It is firm and direct when driving at highway speeds, requiring less effort at parking speeds. Other advantages of the system include its mild self-centering action, and its ability to help compensate for driving hazards like crosswinds and steep road cambers. In the Golf R, the steering ratio is quicker than the GTI's for an even sportier on-road feel.

The brakes were modified to cope with the Golf R's higher level of performance as compared to the GTI. Golf R gets vented 13.6-inch-diameter front and 12.2-inch rear discs, up from the GTI's 12.3-inch-diameter vented front and 10.7-inch solid rear discs. Naturally, anti-lock brakes (ABS) are standard, along with electronic brake pressure distribution (EBS) and hydraulic brake assist (HBA). The latest version of HBA is able to discern whether the braking is "normal" or an emergency according to the speed with which the pedal is depressed. In the event of an emergency, HBA helps increase the brake pressure and activates the ABS.

Safety and Security

The 2012 Golf R comes with an array of standard safety features. For driving security, enhancements include Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Anti-Slip Regulation (ASR), and an Electronic Differential Lock (EDL). A hill holder function automatically applies the parking brake when the vehicle comes to rest and the brake is depressed in traffic, preventing the car from rolling backwards or forwards. The brake is released once the driver presses the accelerator pedal. This is especially useful in slow traffic on long inclines.

Should the car be involved in a crash, the occupants are protected by driver and passenger front and front side thorax airbags together with Side Curtain Protection® head airbags for front and rear passengers. Volkswagen's advanced Intelligent Crash Response System shuts off the fuel pump, unlocks the doors, and even switches on the hazard lights if the car is involved in certain types of collisions.

Like all 2012 Volkswagen models, the Golf R is covered under the no-charge Carefree Maintenance Program. All scheduled maintenance is covered for the length of the New Vehicle Limited Warranty-three years or 36,000 miles, whichever occurs first.

Model Line-up

The base Golf R is a sophisticated and luxurious performance car, with a high level of standard equipment.

Golf R

Starting at $33,990, the two-door Golf R comes equipped with Bi-Xenon headlights; dual-zone Climatronic® air conditioning; cruise control; leather-trimmed multifunction steering wheel; power windows with auto up/down function; leather seating surfaces; 60/40-split folding rear seat with pass through; aluminum pedals; a leather shifter knob and brake lever; and Bluetooth® technology. The eight-speaker sound system has an in-dash six-CD changer, AM/FM/SiriusXM^TM Satellite Radio, and auxiliary input jack along with an iPod® adapter.

Golf R with Sunroof and Navigation

Starting at $35,490 for the two-door model, this adds: a power tilt-and-slide sunroof; Keyless Entry with push-button start; the RNS 315 touchscreen navigation system; and the eight-channel 300-watt Dynaudio® premium sound system.

About Volkswagen of America, Inc.

Founded in 1955, Volkswagen of America, Inc. is headquartered in Herndon, Virginia. It is a subsidiary of Volkswagen AG, headquartered in Wolfsburg, Germany. Volkswagen's operations in the United States include research and development, parts and vehicle processing, parts distribution centers, sales, marketing and service offices, financial service centers, and its state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Volkswagen is one of the world's largest producers of passenger cars and Europe's largest automaker. Volkswagen sells the Beetle, Eos, Golf, GTI, Jetta, Jetta SportWagen, Passat, CC, Tiguan, Touareg and Routan vehicles through approximately 600 independent U.S. dealers. All 2012 Volkswagen models come standard-equipped with Electronic Stability Control. This is important because the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has called ESC the most effective new vehicle safety technology since the safety belt. Visit Volkswagen of America online at www.vw.com or media.vw.com to learn more.

Notes:

This press release and images of the Golf R are available at media.vw.com.

"TSI", "VW", "Volkswagen", "4MOTION", "Climatronic", all model names and the Volkswagen logo are registered trademarks of Volkswagen AG. "Carefree Maintenance" is a registered trademark of Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. "Bluetooth" is a registered trademark of Bluetooth SIG, Inc. "Dynaudio" is a registered trademark of DYNAUDIO International GmbH. "iPod" is a registered trademark of Apple, Inc. "SiriusXM" and "SiriusXM Satellite Radio" are trademarks of SiriusXM Radio, Inc. "Haldex" is a registered trademark of Haldex Traction Systems, Sweden.

Features and technical data apply to models offered in the USA. They may differ in other countries.

Where stated, fuel economy values (mpg) are EPA estimates. All other fuel economy values are forecast manufacturer values for the USA; those EPA estimates were not available at time of release.

MSRPs exclude taxes, title, transportation, options and dealer charges.

The Intelligent Crash Response System (ICRS) will only activate in a collision where the airbags deploy or safety belt pretensioners activate. Not all collisions cause airbags to deploy or safety belt pretensioners to activate.

2012 MINI Cooper London Edition【Video】

England long jump champion and London 2012 hopeful J.J. Jegede today succeeded in his attempt to jump over the roofs of three cars at the launch of the MINI London 2012 Edition Models.

Built to celebrate the 2012 Olympic Games, the London Edition is available in three colors (Chilli Red, White Silver and Lightning Blue) and features a Union Jack hood stripe, a white roof (with the 2012 Olympic logo) and exclusive 17-inch alloy wheels.

Inside, the car gets even London-ier with a full London skyline etched on the dashboard. The black 'lounge leather' seats feature white piping and red and blue stitching. The patriotic seats are completed with London 2012 logo and Union Jack-piped headrests. The hand brake, gear stick gaiter and floor mats also get colored stitching.

Prices start at £17,800 for the MINI Cooper and rise to £20,860 for the MINI Cooper SD. The order book is now open with deliveries planned for March 2012.






Press Release

MINI LONDON 2012 EDITION HITS THE STARTING BLOCKS

MINI, official partner of Team GB and ParalympicsGB, has unveiled its new London 2012 special, limited edition models to celebrate the monumental London 2012 Olympic Games.

There will be just 2,012 of these special edition models built, which are available in Cooper, Cooper D, Cooper S and Cooper SD trims and come in the Union Jack themed colours; Chilli Red, White Silver or Lightning Blue. All models boast white mirror caps and a white roof featuring the iconic London 2012 Olympic graphic.

The exterior also features a distinctive Union Jack single sport stripe which runs over the bonnet, roof and rear tailgate of the car. The side scuttles also bear the London 2012 Olympic graphic. To finish off the dynamic look, the MINI London 2012 edition features unique grey 17-inch conical spoke alloy wheels - unavailable on any other MINI model.

Inside, the most striking feature is the London skyline, beautifully etched across the width of the piano-black dashboard. Silhouetting some of London's most iconic landmarks, including Tower Bridge, Battersea Power Station and the London Eye, the dashboard also displays the words "London 1 of 2012".

The London 2012 inspiration continues with red and blue stitching twined with white piping on both the front and rear Black ‘Lounge Leather' upholstery. The headrests complement the theme with Union Jack piping and a London 2012 logo is stitched on the inner edge of both front seats. Coloured stitching also features on the hand brake, gear stick gaiter and floor mats which also have piping.

All London 2012 special edition models come packed with a bundle of extra options like Lounge Leather sports seats, DAB radio, air conditioning, cruise control and chrome interior touches. MINIMALISM technology* also comes as standard; helping to make the 99g/km CO2 emitting Cooper D models exempt from London Congestion Charging.

As well as fuel sipping mpg figures and low CO2 emissions - MINI is one of the top five low CO2 car manufacturers** - drivers can enjoy the brand's trademark go-kart handling and charismatic personality in a truly patriotic driving experience.

To bag one of these must-have street accessories of 2012, the new MINI London 2012 Edition pre-sale list opens at today, with the new models hitting UK roads from March 2012. On the Road Prices for the MINI London 2012 Editions models are:

MINI Cooper Hatch £17,800
MINI Cooper D Hatch £19,080
MINI Cooper S Hatch £20,125
MINI Cooper SD Hatch £20,860

Kicherer Mercedes ML63 AMG Carbon

Kicherer unveiled their new tuning program for the Mercedes-Benz ML63 AMG.

The German aftermarket developer used the Carbon Series designation. The car is covered in carbon fiber foil and has been given smoked taillights and dark tinted windows. The unit features 23-inch alloy rims, which have a five-spoke design.

The tuner has also played on the tech field,gifting the 6.2-liter V8 with an ECU remap and a stainless steel sport exhaust system.

Kicherer also fits an aero body kit, then covers the exterior in matte foil.

Inside, the cabin is elegantly appointed with carbon-leather, Alcantara upholstery.




Press Release

KICHERER ML63 "Carbon Series"

In addition to the black carbon foil, KICHERER gifts the ML63 AMG with a performance increase to 540 HP (397 kW), with a new maximum torque at a full 640 Nm. In addition to exciting acceleration values, this power also provides for a maximum speed far in excess of 250 km/h.

Additionally, a specially developed stainless steel sports exhaust system and a KICHERER PowerConverter were installed. With a carbon edition exterior package, the ML63 appears uni-coloured: All cover elements have been refined in the most exclusive foil currently available.

Gigantic 23 inch wheels rotate in the wheel cases of the luxurious sports SUV; combined with the electronic chassis adjustment, they achieve a much more sportive alignment, transferring the 540 HP power perfectly to the asphalt surface as well. For the passenger space, KICHERER offers a fine interior set in carbon-leather and alcantara.

2012 Porsche 911 officially launched at Frankfurt

Porsche has unveiled the 2012 911 (991) at the Frankfurt Motor Show.

Arguably the biggest bit of news regarding the 2012 911 is its seven-speed manual transmission, available with both the 3.4-liter and 3.8-liter flat-six engines. That, combined with start/stop technology means the new 911 will be more efficient than ever, though its impressive output numbers (300 horsepower for the 3.4-liter mill, 400 hp for the 3.8) mean it'll still be an excellent enthusiast machine out on the road. Porsche claims 0-60 times of 4.4 seconds for the base Carrera and 4.1 seconds for the Carrera S.










Press Release

World premiere at the 2011 IAA Frankfurt Motor Show
The new Porsche 911 Carrera: Tradition meets modernity


Stuttgart. At 48, the Porsche 911 Carrera is younger than ever: The completely redesigned generation of the sports car icon is stepping into the limelight with its flat, stretched silhouette, exciting contours and precisely designed details, yet from the very first glance it remains unmistakably a 911. True to the 911 tradition, the distinctive Porsche design language with its tendons and muscles exudes power and elegance.

The 100 millimetre (~ 3.9 inches) longer wheelbase and reduced height combined with the up to 20-inch wheels underpin the athletic appearance. At the same time, the typical sports car compact exterior dimensions were retained. Seen from the front, the eye is drawn to the 911's trademark wide-arched wings. They emphasise the wider front track, so that the new 911 Carrera models sit even more solidly on the road. The remodelled exterior mirrors are accommodated on the upper edge of the door and not as before on the mirror triangle. Not only is this aerodynamically advantageous, it also emphasises the new design line and visual impression of width.

The all-new, lightweight body is an intelligent aluminium-steel construction. It is responsible for a significant proportion of the weight reduction of up to 45 kilograms. Combined with significantly greater rigidity. Aerodynamic optimisation - including a wider, variably extending rear spoiler - enabled the new 911 Carrera's lift to be reduced yet further while retaining a very good Cd value.

To complement the modern exterior design, the Porsche designers created an interior, the architecture of which takes its cue from the Porsche Carrera GT. The driver is now even more closely integrated with the cockpit thanks to the centre console rising up to the front with the high-mounted shift lever or gear selector located especially close to the steering wheel in typical motorsport fashion. Classic Porsche elements are also to be found inside, as they are on the outside: the instrument cluster with five round instruments - one of them a high resolution multifunction screen, the central rev counter and the ignition lock to the left of the steering wheel.

Setting the standard in its class, as it has for generations, the new 911 Carrera and Carrera S raise the performance and efficiency bar yet another notch. All versions get by with significantly less than ten litres of fuel per 100 kilometres (28 mpg imp.). Fuel consumption and emissions are up to 16 per cent lower compared with its predecessor. Among other things, this is achieved by systems and functions such as auto start/stop, thermal management, electrical system recuperation, the world's first seven-speed manual transmission and - in conjunction with the Porsche-Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK) - sailing as it is called. The new electro-mechanical power steering offers not only Porsche's typical precision and feedback but also helps to increase efficiency and reduce fuel-consumption.

For example, the 911 Carrera with the new 350 hp (~ 257 kW) 3.4-litre boxer engine and optional PDK consumes a mere 8.2 litres per 100 kilometres (~ 34 mpg imp.) based on the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC) - 1.6 l/100 km (~ 6 mpg imp.) less than its predecessor. Also, at 194 g/km CO2, it is the first Porsche sports car to make it below the 200 g/km mark. With the 911 Carrera S as well, with its 3.8-litre boxer engine and what is now 400 hp (~ 294 kW), fuel consumption when paired with the optional PDK is reduced by 14 per cent or 1.5 l/100 km (~ 5 mpg imp.) to 8.7 l/100 km (~ 32 mpg imp.) despite 15 hp (~ 11 kW) more power. That equates to CO2 emissions of 205 g/km.

At the same time there are performance improvements in both models. The 911 Carrera S with PDK manages to accelerate from nought to 100 km/h (~ 62 mph) in 4.3 seconds. Pressing the Sport Plus button on the optional Sport Chrono package cuts that to 4.1 seconds. The 911 Carrera with PDK needs only 4.6 seconds (Sport Plus 4.4 seconds) to sprint from a standing start to 100 km/h (~ 62 mph).

The new 911 doesn't just offer better longitudinal dynamics, however, but top performance at an unprecedented level in terms of transverse dynamics as well. In addition to the longer wheelbase, the greater agility, precision and driving stability are based, among other things, on the wider front track, the new rear axle and new electro-mechanical power steering. Depending on the model, there are other standard or optional active control systems available as well that further enhance the driving dynamics. That is especially true for the Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC) active roll stabilisation system, available for the first time on the 911 Carrera S. For example, the system reduces lateral inclination when cornering, the tyres always being in the optimal position relative to the road surface and able to transmit higher lateral forces. Maximum cornering speeds are increased; even faster lap times on racing circuits are possible.

It has therefore been possible in the new model to extend yet further the span of apparently contradictory attributes such as performance and efficiency, sportiness and everyday practicality that has always typified the Porsche 911. That makes the 911 Carrera more of a 911 than ever. The new Porsche 911 Carrera celebrates its world premiere at the 2011 IAA Frankfurt Motor Show. The launch of the new 911 models gets under way on 3 December 2011, the new cars can be orderd from September 1st. Prices in Germany are 88,038 euro for the 911 Carrera and 102,436 euro for the 911 Carrera S, including 19 per cent VAT and market-specific equipment.

2011 Frankfurt: Audi Urban Concept【Video】

Audi has officially unveiled the Urban concept. This car is intended to show what the future of small and very fuel-efficient cars for city dwellers might look like.

The lithium-ion battery – weighing in at 90kg and counting for almost 20 per cent of the Urban Concept’s total weight – lives behind the seats and takes about an hour to charge for a range of 45 miles. It takes 16.9 seconds to get to 62mph.

The Audi Urban Concepts weight 480 kilograms (1,058.22 lb) thanks to the lightweight chassis design and the numerous CFRP components, and measure 3,219 millimeters (126.73 in) in length, 1,678 millimeters (66.06 in) width, and just 1,189 millimeters (46.81 in) height.

The 21-inch wheels are free-standing, their surrounding protective arches feature blinking strips of LED lights.

The aircraft-inspired cabin is minimalistic, but features a floating dashboard, aluminum pedals and a hexagonal steering wheel. Occupants sit side by side, but the passenger seat is moved back 30cm (11.81 in) to "provide sufficient shoulder and elbow room."







Press Release

The Audi urban concept

Audi is breaking new ground: The Audi urban concept technology study is a 1+1 vehicle for urban and metropolitan areas. The electric powered show car has four wheels, but does not fit into any current automobile category. Weighing just 480 kilograms (1,058.22 lb), the Audi urban concept combines elements of a racecar, a roadster, a fun car and a city car into a radical new concept. It has the potential to become the trendsetter for a new form of mobility.

Concept
"How much car is necessary to deliver driving pleasure and urban mobility in an entirely new way?" This question was the starting point for the Audi urban concept. A model of a sailplane was in the studio during the development process as an example of lightweight construction, efficiency and reduction - of the principle of "less is more."

The result is a vehicle that cannot be pigeonholed, a vehicle that redefines the term "driving pleasure" and is completely unencumbered by the baggage of conventional concepts. The Audi urban concept concentrates on the pure essence of driving and conveys freedom at the premium level. At the same time, it offers the comfort and safety of a closed automobile, making it far superior to any motor scooter. With its sleek body and free-standing wheels, the technology study is progressive and highly dramatic while at the same time extremely sporty, yet surprisingly comfortable.

The cabin of the Audi urban concept offers slightly offset seating for two. The roof slides back for entry. This innovative solution makes the Audi urban concept even more fun to drive because the canopy can remain open in good weather. It also allows the cabin to be aired out very quickly. The fit and finish of the show car is characterized by the obligatory Audi perfection. The car's technology is reflective of the brand's wide-ranging competence, particularly in ultra-lightweight construction.

The brand with the four rings has created an entirely new class of vehicle with the Audi urban concept, and that on the premium level. It also marks the new entry point to Audi's future range of electric vehicles, which is crowned by the R8 e-tron high-performance sports car. The Audi urban concept quite literally makes it easy to get into electric mobility.

The technology study is targeted toward people who are interested in technology and are enthusiastic about new approaches to mobility, independent of their age and status. In particular, it addresses an urban public whose lifestyle both reflects the car's modern concept and the driving pleasure associated with it and is a good fit for a possible innovative leasing system.

Exterior design
The Audi urban concept features an all-new design that still has certain historical roots in the Auto Union racecars of the 1930s. They were well ahead of their time conceptually: they were extremely lightweight and their engines were mounted in the rear. Their large, open wheels also stood out from the chassis - another parallel with the modern show car.

Painted in Electric White, pearl effect, today's technology study - 3,219 millimeters (126.73 in) long, 1,678 millimeters (66.06 in) wide, but just 1,189 millimeters (46.81 in) high - has a body on which all the lines are surging forward. The greenhouse is extremely flat. The roofline drops down like a wedge while the side window rises upward. The typical Audi tornado line gives the urban concept a strong shoulder.

An upright, forward-leaning blade in front of the rear wheel accentuates the side view. The Speed Red contour gives the appearance of a roll bar and evokes the Audi R8 high-performance sports car. The flanks of the body flare outward toward the bottom to enlarge the floor. This serves two purposes: It generates downforce at higher speeds and it can be used to charge the battery via induction - a particularly convenient method.

The characteristic Audi single-frame grill, which sports the four rings, appears as a closed surface on the Audi urban concept. It tilts forward to provide access to the charging socket. The narrow LED headlights project three-dimensionally from the body.

The turn signals are LED strips running along the fenders. These closely encircle the free-standing wheels, and the front fenders turn with the wheels when steering. The three-dimensional rear lights with the tail light and brake light are integrated into the vehicle body and wrap around the top of the rear window. At the back of the car is a small luggage compartment that pulls out like a drawer.

The front segment of the greenhouse is movable - another innovative idea that is unique to the Audi urban concept. Mounted on rails, it can be slid back by hand over the fixed rear segment.

It is up to the driver to decide whether to close the canopy or leave it open. The technology study is a roadster-on-demand that has neither roll-down windows nor a heavy air conditioner. When closed, the canopy provides protection against rain and cool air. Audi has also developed a second body variant as an alternative to the urban concept: a Spyder with a flat window strip wrapping around the cockpit and doors that open upward at an angle.

Interior
Entry to the Audi urban concept is via the slide-back canopy. The driver and passenger step over the edge of the vehicle as if they were stepping into the bathtub - there are no doors. This does not require any great flexibility; a handle on the windshield frame and special cutouts on the seating surfaces facilitate entry.

The show car offers room for two. The driver and passenger sit next to one another, with the right seat offset by 30 centimeters (11.81 in) to the rear to provide sufficient shoulder and elbow room. The seats are fixed, integral components of the monocoque, which provides for significant weight savings. They are covered with foam seating surfaces custom-fabricated to the measurements of the customer, just like in a racecar. The seat belts run through cutouts in the seat backs.

Sitting in the Audi urban concept is somewhat like sitting in an airplane cockpit. The seating position is very sporty. The driver can precisely adjust the positions of the aluminum pedals and the steering column. Both components are telescoping. The pedals can be moved a total of 22 centimeters (8.66 in), while the steering column can be moved 14 centimeters (5.51 in) for easier entry and additional 6 centimeters (2.36 in) for a custom driving position.

The steering column is exposed - a thick, elegantly designed section, open in the center and mounted virtually horizontally. At the far end of the steering column is a display for the most important information. The small, hexagonal steering wheel includes buttons and roller switches for controlling various systems, including selecting the Audi drive select modes for the electric drive system.

The entire interior of the technology study is subjugated to the strict dictates of ultra-lightweight construction. Running below the windshield across the entire cabin is a wing-shaped section that is also open in the middle. This new style of dashboard includes satellite controls for the heater and two large air vents.

Rather than carpeting, an innovative mat covers parts of the floor. This is made from a technical textile originally developed for athletic shoes that is water repellant and very durable. The seats are covered with cloth, with the edges of the foam pads framed in kangaroo leather. Aluminum applications accentuate the dashboard.

Technology
The Audi urban concept is also without peer with respect to the technical concept. The outer skin of the show car is made of carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP); the occupant cell is a mix of CFRP monocoque and an aluminum structure. This ultra-lightweight construction is the foundation for the technology study's extremely low curb weight of just 480 kilograms (1,058.22 lb).

The sophisticated chassis underscores the distinctively sporty personality of the Audi urban concept. Wishbones made from a combination of aluminum and CFRP locate the free-standing, 21-inch wheels.

Manufactured using cladding technology, the wheels are very light and feature a variant of the blade design from the Audi e-tron models. The tire sizes are as unusual as the car as a whole - 125/60 up front and 145/50 in the rear.

The Audi urban concept uses pushrod technology borrowed from motorsports. As in a racecar, the struts mounted in the interior of the monocoque are nearly horizontal. Four disc brakes provide the stopping power. The turning circle measures less than nine meters (29.53 ft) - ideal for a city car. Thanks to the vehicle's low weight, the rack-and-pinion steering does not require any power assistance. Crumple zones in the front and rear plus two airbags provide for a high degree of passive safety. An innovative assistance system helps the driver to avoid collisions with pedestrians.

The battery is mounted transversely behind the seats. The lithium-ion battery, which weighs around 90 kilograms (198.42 lb), stores 7.1 kWh of usable energy. The study's two electric motors together produce 15 kW (20 hp) of continuous power and 47 Nm (34.67 lb-ft) of torque. The motors are mounted between the rear wheels, which they drive via a single-speed transmission.

The Audi urban concept accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 16.9 seconds. It reaches 60 km/h (37.28 mph) in around six seconds. The show car steps off from traffic lights smartly thanks to the torque of the electric motors, which is fully available from standstill. Top speed is governed at 100 km/h (62.14 mph).

The action radius in the European driving cycle is 73 km (45.36 miles). The battery recharges completely in about 20 minutes with 400 volt three-phase current, and in approximately one hour with 230 volt household current.

Audi Wireless Charging
Audi is hard at work on the future of charging technology as an alternative to the charging at a power outlet. Audi Wireless Charging (AWC) refers to contactless induction charging. The infrastructure side, comprising a coil and an inverter (AC/AC converter), is placed on the normal parking spot of the Audi urban concept and connected to the power grid. The 3.6 kW primary coil set into the plate generates a high-frequency alternating field.

The charging process begins automatically when the urban concept drives onto the plate. The alternating magnetic field of the infrastructure side induces an alternating current across the air gap in the secondary coil, which is integrated into the vehicle. This current is rectified and fed into the vehicle's electrical system, where it charges the battery or powers consumers such as the heater. The alternating field is only generated if the vehicle is standing over the plate and thus poses no danger to people or animals.

Charging stops automatically when the battery is fully charged. The driver can interrupt charging at any time. The efficiency of AWC is comparable to that of other charging technologies. It is not affected by rain, snow or ice. The new technology makes charging electric vehicles easy and extremely convenient. A later version of the technology will be able to be integrated into the transportation infrastructure as a retrofit for parking garages or residential streets, for example.