Ferrari LaFerrari, 2014

 

 

 

 Ferrari LaFerrari, 2014

The hybrid technology used, known as HY-KERS, represents the perfect combination of maximum performance and lower emissions. LaFerrari in fact emits just 330 g/km of CO2 but without resorting to electric-only drive which would not fit the mission of this model. The HY-KERS system is, however, designed so that in future applications a car can be driven using exclusively electric power for a few kilometres and, during development testing, a full-electric version of LaFerrari achieved just 220 g/km of C02 emissions on the combined cycle.

The LaFerrari is equipped with dynamic controls that are integrated for the first time ever on a Ferrari road car with active aerodynamics and the HY-KERS system. Thanks to Ferrari's proprietary logic which govern all the systems, the car can achieve absolute levels of performance, aerodynamic efficiency and handling without any form of compromise in any area. A very advanced and uncompromising approach was also taken with the interior design which features an HMI inspired by F1 single-seaters.

The Architecture
The LaFerrari's architecture posed the first challenge for the Prancing Horse team at the planning stage of the design. The aim was to achieve ideal weight distribution (59% at the rear) and a compact wheelbase despite the extra bulk of the hybrid system. The result is that all of the masses are situated between the car's two axles and as close as possible to the floor to lower its centre of gravity (by 35 millimetres) and thereby guarantee dynamic handling and compact dimensions.

The layout of the cabin made a significant contribution in this regard. The seat is fixed and tailored to the driver while both the pedal box and steering wheel are adjustable. The driving position is similar to that of a single-seater and was designed after consultation with the Scuderia Ferrari drivers, Fernando Alonso and Felipe Massa, who played an active role throughout the entire development process.

The LaFerrari's chassis features no less than four different types of carbon-fibre, all hand-laminated and autoclave-cured in the racing department using the same design and production methods as the Formula 1 car. This helped optimise the design: various functions were integrated (e.g. seats and battery compartment) into the chassis to improve torsional rigidity (+27%) and beam stiffness (+22%) whilst cutting weight.

Powertrain
The LaFerrari is the first car in Ferrari history to be powered by the HY-KERS system. The ICE represents the pinnacle of engine development and research, with a 6262 cc V12 that punches out 800 CV and revs to a maximum of 9,250 rpm, a record for an engine of this displacement. It also features a very high 13.5:1 compression ratio and a high specific output equal to 128 CV per litre. The engine is coupled with a 120 Kw (163 CV) electric motor, giving it a combined power output of 963 CV.

The batteries are charged in different ways: under braking (even hard braking with the ABS active) and every time the V12 produces more torque than required, such as in cornering. In the latter instance, rather than the being sent to the wheels, the excess torque is converted to energy and stored in the batteries.

The electric motor is coupled with the F1 dual-clutch gearbox to the benefit of optimal weight distribution, but also to boosting energy efficiency as torque is instantly available to the wheels and, vice versa, from the wheels to the electric motor in recharging.

Aerodynamics
Active aerodynamics play an essential role, as they allow a complete adjustability of the car's configuration to attain LaFerrari's exceptional performance.

The engineers' aim was to deliver the highest degree of aerodynamic efficiency ever achieved with any road car, with a coefficient of nearly 3, thanks to technical solutions honed with CFD analysis and fine-tuned in the F1 Wind Tunnel.

Control systems
One further innovative aspect of the LaFerrari is the integration of its active aerodynamics and hybrid system with the other dynamic control systems aboard. This means the car responds intelligently to driver inputs, making for a seamless blend of unprecedented performance and unparalleled driving emotions.

The LaFerrari's Brembo braking system is also integrated with the hybrid system, and incorporates several new features, including new lightweight callipers designed to guarantee correct cooling and carbon-ceramic material (CCM) discs featuring a new composition.

The car's extreme performance potential called for a different tyre set-up, with 265/30 R 19 Pirelli P-Zeros on the front and 345/30 R 20s on the rear.

All in all the car guarantees maximum driving thrills in every situation and performance levels are top level: 0-100 km/h in less than 3 seconds and 0-200 km/h in under 7 seconds, a lap time at Fiorano of under 1'20" - 5 seconds faster than the Enzo and over 3 seconds faster than the F12berlinetta. LaFerrari is thus the fastest road car in Maranello's long history.

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Dodge Ram 1500, 2014

 

 Dodge Ram 1500, 2014

The 2014 Ram 1500 new, 3.0-liter Eco Diesel engine, mated with the Torque Flite eight-speed automatic transmission. The engine delivers an outstanding combination of best-in-class fuel efficiency, unsurpassed torque and impressive capability.

Pricing for the Ram 1500 starts at $24,200, plus $1,095 destination. The exclusive V-6 Eco Diesel with Torque Flite 8-speed automatic transmission is priced $2,850 greater than a similarly equipped Ram 1500 with a 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 with Torqueflite 8 speed transmission.

New on the 2014 Ram 1500 is a front park assist system and host of efficiency, comfort and emissions-friendly refinements including a variable displacement compressor; pulse-width modulated blower; humidity sensor; and the latest technology in air conditioning refrigerant.

The Ram 1500 delivers best-in-class fuel economy with a truckload of pioneering, fuel-saving systems including: eight-speed automatic transmission, stop-start system, thermal management system, pulse-width modulation and active aerodynamics, including grille shutters and air suspension.

Powertrain
The 2014 Ram 1500 continues the brand's quest of re-defining the half-ton full-size pickup class with the introduction of an exclusive small displacement turbo diesel engine that delivers a best-in-class combination of torque and fuel efficiency.

Aptly branded Eco Diesel, the new 3.0-liter power plant is a turbocharged 60-degree, dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) 24-valve V-6 that produces 240 horsepower and 420 lb.-ft. of torque ¬is noticeably more efficient than all V-6 gasoline engines in the half-ton category.

Like the 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 and 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 gasoline engines already offered on the Ram 1500, the new Eco Diesel V-6 mated to the TorqueFlite 8, the only eight-speed automatic transmission offered in the half-ton class.

The new Eco Diesel - developed and manufactured by VM Motor (a Chrysler supplier since 1992) - is one of the most advanced diesel engines in the marketplace. Equipped with a diesel oxidation catalyst, diesel particulate filter, and selective catalytic reduction, it will be emissions-compliant in all 50 states.

The new Ram 1500 also is equipped with a capless fuel filler system for re-filling convenience.

The 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine (Ward's 10 Best Engines Award three years in a row) with variable-valve timing (VVT) offers 305 horsepower, 269 lb.-ft. of torque and best-in-class fuel economy for V-6 engine trucks. The Pentastar V-6 features 42 percent more horsepower, 13 percent more torque and at least 20 percent better fuel economy when compared to the previous 3.7-liter V-6 powertrain. The legendary 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 with fuel-saving cylinder shut-off and VVT provides 395 horsepower and 410 lb.-ft. of torque.

The class-exclusive eight-speed automatic transmission (TorqueFlite 8), standard equipment with 3.0-liter V-6 EcoDiesel and 3.6-liter V-6 Pentastar, doubles the amount of gears compared to the previously available four-speed automatic transmission, which improves drivability and enhances fuel efficiency. The eight-speed also is available with the 5.7-liter HEMI V-8.

When the 2014 Ram 1500 full-size pickup arrives in retail outlets the fourth quarter of calendar year 2013, it will establish what is unmistakably the most advanced and efficient powertrain portfolio in the light-duty category, as evidenced by:

• Exclusive offering of a small-displacement turbo diesel engine (Eco Diesel V-6)
• Exclusive offering of an eight-speed automatic transmission (8HP45 with Pentastar V-6, 8HP70 with HEMI V-8 and Eco Diesel V-6)
• Unsurpassed torque
• Best-in-Class V-6 gasoline engine fuel efficiency (Pentastar V-6)
• Best-in-Class combination of power and fuel efficiency in a V-8 engine (HEMI V-8 mated with eight-speed transmission)
• Only manufacturer in light-duty class to offer diesel, gasoline, and flex-fuel (E85 capable 3.6-liter V-6) engines

Engineering

Beginning in model year 2014, the Ram 1500 will offer a front park assist system, a first time offering on a full-size Ram pickup truck.

The system uses four sensors located on the front bumper. The bezel-less, integrated sensors sequentially send out ultrasonic waves when the vehicle is driven in forward at low speeds. The system can detect objects as far away as 47.2 inches.

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Dacia Logan MCV, 2014

 

 

Dacia Logan MCV, 2014

Robust, attractive design
New Dacia Logan MCV features the new Dacia design identity, with its emphasis on strength and robustness.
New Logan MCV boasts an attractive design as well as offering class-leading loading capacity (boot measuring 573 litres with the rear seats up and 1518 litres with them folded) and generous dimensions (4.49 metres long, 430 mm more than New Sandero), with the ability to carry items up to 2.7 m long. So, a Max capacity vehicle (MCV), true to its name, with flexible and spacious interior, all at city car prices.

From the outside, New Dacia Logan MCV has an energetic look, with design features, including roof rails, that evoke strength and vigour. The black mask above the rear lamp units highlights the impression of spaciousness and robustness.

Spacious, functional, rational interior
If New Dacia Logan MCV looks rugged and robust from the outside, this impression carries through to the interior, which boasts a high degree of perceived quality. The Dacia design team paid special attention to ensure the interior of New Logan MCV fulfils customer expectations on usability. The driving position is comfortable, with fully adjustable driver's seat and steering wheel (on some versions). And the layout obeys sound ergonomic principles, with all controls readily accessible on the steering wheel or in the immediate vicinity.

The interior arrangement is clever, offering no less than 16 litres of handy, accessible stowage features, such as front and rear door bins, cubbies and a storage tray on top of the dashboard. The luggage compartment cover (on some versions) has a rigid upper section with additional interior stowage capability. The easy-to-use 2/3-1/3 split/folding rear bench, standard on all versions, makes for maximum versatility.

More features, same price
Ever true to the Dacia promise of offering more for less, New Logan MCV brings in all the new functional, easy-to-use and 100% useful equipment introduced on Lodgy, Dokker, New Logan and New Sandero.

Media Nav (available on selected versions) is a fully-integrated multimedia system with a large 7" touchscreen running a highly intuitive homepage menu for trouble-free navigation across the system's many useful functions, which include Bluetooth® technology and satnav with 2D and 3D (Birdview) display. Personal devices can be easily connected to a dashboard USB or jack connector.

•     DaciaPlug&Radio, (available on selected versions) a straightforward and highly efficient multimedia solution, with a dashboard-mounted screen showing three lines of information. Dacia Plug&Radio comprises radio, MP3-compatible CD player, Bluetooth technology and dashboard-mounted USB and jack connectors.
•     Cruise control with speed limiter (on some versions), with steering-wheel control for both functions, and speed setting.
•     Rear parking sensors (on selected versions), with sensors in the rear bumper to warn the driver when nearing an obstacle.
•     Power steering, standard on all versions, for enhanced comfort and driving pleasure.

New engines, for an even better economy/performance ratio
Just like New Logan and New Sandero, New Logan MCV comes with a choice of two petrol engines: 1.2 16v 75, versatile and economical, both in terms of initial purchase price and running costs; and the brand new TCe 90, a three-cylinder turbocharged petrol unit that epitomizes the Renault group's powertrain excellence. The TCe 90 is a featherweight marvel, weighing 15 kg less than a conventional engine of equivalent power. It offers crisp, supple acceleration to combine motoring pleasure with enviable fuel economy (56.5mpg) and low CO2 emissions (116 g/km).

By combining low fuel consumption with record loading volume of 573 litres, New Logan MCV gives the very best ratio between fuel economy and load capacity, making it the very best proposition for budget-conscious customers who need great load carrying capabilities.

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Citroen Cactus Concept, 2013

 

 

 

 Citroen Cactus Concept, 2013

The Citroen Cactus is more than a concept car; it is a manifest of the future models in the C line. Citroen is shifting the paradigm with the new concept car, shedding the superfluous and bringing well-being firmly into the limelight. Citroen Cactus is a desirable, user-friendly car that forges an unprecedented harmony between distinctive yet pragmatic design, comfort for all occupants, and easy-to-use technology.

Genesis
The origins of Citroen Cactus date back to the reveal of the C-Cactus concept car at the 2007 Frankfurt show. C-Cactus was a radical automotive approach that posed a number of key questions: What do motorists expect from cars in today's world? And which equipment and features really count? The fascinating exercise pushed engineers and designers to make sweeping changes and set problems differently in order to explore new solutions. The pragmatic approach eschewed the superfluous to concentrate on what makes motorists feel good. The end result, Citroen Cactus, is a manifest that previews forthcoming models in the C line.

Pure and functional styling
The styling of Citroen Cactus marries the aesthetic to the practical, with designers having sought to find the right volumes and extend efficiency to the smallest details. The idea was to keep only the essential, and optimise that essence to obtain a form of natural perfection. The approach allowed the designers to break free from classic automotive cues and explore ingenious solutions to bring customers real equipment and features.

The body styling of Citroen Cactus seems original and obvious, both at the same time, lingering easily in the memory like that of all great cars that have marked their time. The styling is easy to identify, with:

• Pure and smooth surfaces in pearlescent white
• Flowing, aggression-free shapes
• Floating quarterlight and roof
• Contrasting design components, each one with a function (protection with Lama grey Airbumps and textured black wheel arches; transport with lacquered black roof arches; cabin light with the large panoramic roof).

One component stands out immediately through its originality: the Airbump.
Located on the sides and the bumpers of the car, the design component expresses a new approach that gives style a function. The Airbump strengthens the styling of Citroen Cactus, heightening its personality with its originality and personalisation possibilities. The supple skin of the Airbump features a soft treatment that resists scratches and includes air capsules that dampen impact.

Citroen Cactus has optimal proportions for extra efficiency and driving comfort:

•     The dimensions of a compact hatchback (4.21 m long and 1.75 m wide)
•     An ideal balance between one-third glazed area and two-thirds wing surface
•     High ground clearance (21 cm) but with an optimised height of just 1.53 m
•     Reduced overhang, with the wheels set firmly in the corners

The styling of Citroen Cactus evokes technology and perceived quality and is entirely free of aggression.

The front end, previewing the visual identity of future models in the C line, is characterised by:

•     Smooth surfaces showcasing the chevrons
•     Flowing forms with a seamless progression from bonnet to wing
•     A high-tech light signature with LED daytime running lights and lamps built in to the Airbumps

The styling at the back respects the same principle with 3D-effect LED lights built in to the wide Airbump protecting the boot.

The singular and radical design of Citroen Cactus also promises a warm, ergonomic and comfortable interior. The absence of side windows, rear window and B pillars beckons onlookers to discover the cabin inside, which has been entirely reworked in terms of architecture as well as in the design of colours and materials.

Ingenious design
The first objective with Citroen Cactus was to free up space inside for the driver and passengers, bringing them more ease and user-friendliness and, hence, more comfort.

The slender, floating dashboard fully frees up the floor below and on its upper part offers the front passenger a capacious and easy-access storage space. The dashboard design was made possible by using a 100% digital interface and by optimising the organisation of the driver's station, in particular by:

• Replacing the instrument cluster with a 7-inch screen
• Switching control buttons for an 8-inch touchscreen connected to all vehicle functions (air conditioning, audio, satnav, connected services and driver aids)
• Installing the passenger airbag on the ceiling
• Replacing the traditional gearstick with push-button controls on the lower part of the dashboard and steering-wheel paddles

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Chevrolet Camaro SS, 2014

 

 Chevrolet Camaro SS, 2014

The 2014 Camaro models feature a revised exterior design that integrates high-performance aerodynamics for more efficient cooling and stability at high speeds. The new Chevy Camaro Z/28 also features a full aerodynamics package that creates downforce at speed, which helps make it the most track-capable offering in Camaro's history.

The first Camaro Z/28 was introduced in 1967, created to compete in the Sports Car Club of America's Trans-Am 2 class. It featured a smaller, lighter, 302-cubic-inch V-8 for improved weight balance, as well as quick-ratio steering and a heavy-duty suspension for track use. In keeping with its road-racing focus, the 1967 Camaro Z/28 was not available with an automatic transmission or air conditioning.

While the new Camaro Z/28 is not intended to compete in a specific race series, it is solely focused on track capability. In initial testing, the Camaro Z/28 is three seconds faster per lap than the Camaro ZL1. That extra speed comes from three areas:

• Increased grip: The Z/28 is capable of 1.05 g in cornering acceleration, due to comprehensive chassis revisions
• Increased stopping power: the Z/28 features Brembo carbon-ceramic brakes capable of 1.5 g in deceleration, and consistent brake feel, lap after lap
• Reduced curb weight: The naturally aspirated Z/28 weighs 300 pounds less than the supercharged Camaro ZL1, with changes ranging from lightweight wheels to thinner rear-window glass

Like the original, the 2014 Chevrolet Camaro Z/28 is offered only with a manual transmission. In a nod to modern convenience, air-conditioning is available, but only as an option.

"We set out to make the fastest road-racing Camaro possible that was still street-legal," said Al Oppenheiser, Camaro chief engineer. "While the Camaro ZL1 offers exceptional performance on the street, the drag strip, and the track, the Z/28 is entirely focused on the track performance. The Z/28 will be too track-focused for most drivers, but offers road-racers one of the most capable track cars ever offered from an automaker."

The new 2014 Camaro line will arrive at Chevrolet dealers later in 2013. The Camaro Z/28 is expected to be appearing at track events across the United States in spring 2014.

High-performance aerodynamics highlight changes for 2014 Camaro
Compared to the previous model, the design represents a strong visual change front and rear, resulting in a wider, lower, more contemporary appearance. The front fascia features a wider lower opening, and a narrower upper opening that also updates the appearance of the iconic "halo ring" HID headlamps on the Camaro RS package. The functional hood vent on the Camaro SS helps reduce heat and aerodynamic lift. Moving to the rear, the sculptural decklid, horizontal lamps and diffuser complete the powerful statement.

On the interior, the Camaro Z/28 features trim in a distinctive, matte-metallic finish named Octane, the ZL1 flat-bottomed steering wheel, and standard Recaro seats with microfiber suede inserts. The new seats (also available on the coupe versions of the SS and ZL1 models), feature aggressive bolsters for high-performance driving, as well as seat cutouts inspired by the five-point harnesses found on racing seats. To save weight, both front seats incorporate manual adjustment.

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Caterham Seven 620R, 2014

 

 Caterham Seven 620R, 2014

As the lightweight sportscar manufacturer celebrates 40 years of developing and building the Seven, Caterham is re-inventing the already enviable parameters of its iconic model, with the Seven 620R setting a new benchmark in outrageous performance.
A newly-engineered, two-litre supercharged Ford Duratec engine pumps out 310bhp, providing even more of a kick in the back for the driver and propelling the Seven 620R from 0-60mph in under 2.8 seconds.

The priced at £49,995 (incl VAT) fully built, such extreme performance, pushing on to a top speed of 155mph,  put the 620R at the top of the current range, replacing the legendary Superlight R500.
The 620R is diametrically opposed to the new ultra-efficient, affordable entry-level Seven that sit at the opposite end of the range when Caterham unveils it in Autumn this year.

Like all Sevens, the 620R adheres to Caterham's brand mantra of delivering 'accessible fun' and the traditional Caterham minimalistic, lightweight approach to the engineering of the car is ever-present.

The car features a unique gunmetal chassis, an air-flow optimised nose cone and a race-developed cooling package. De Dion rear suspension and wide track front suspension units are complemented by high-performance dampers all round, while the car sits on lightweight, 13" alloy wheels fitted with track-inspired Avon ZZR tyres.

In the cockpit, there are more noticeable improvements, with features including performance-focused instrumentation and ergonomic switchgear.
Carbon fibre interior panels and dash plus carbon fibre race seats and a Q/R race steering wheel complete the sports feel to the interior.

Specification
    Suspension
        Front: Adjustable double wishbone with roll bar
        Rear: De Dion axle located by lower A-frame and Watts linkage
    Brakes: Twin circuit split front/rear with low level warning system. Discs front and rear
    Steering: Rack and pinion, 1.93 turns lock to lock

    Wheels and Tyres
        Front: 6J x 13" AVON ZZR
        Rear: 8J x 13" AVON ZZR

    Engine: 2.0-litre Ford Duratec (supercharged)
    Max Power: 311 bhp @ 7,700rpm
    Max Torque: 219 lbs ft @ 7,350rpm
    0-60mph: 2.79 seconds
    Top Speed: 155mph

Standard equipment

•     6-speed sequential transmission with flat-shift
•     Limited slip differential
•     Unique gunmetal chassis
•     Carbon-fibre wings
•     Air flow optimized nose cone
•     Race developed cooling package
•     De-Dion rear suspension with high performance dampers
•     Wide track front suspension with high performance dampers
•     Ventilated front discs and quad piston calipers
•     Carbon-fibre interior panels and dash
•     Carbon-fibre race seats
•     Lightweight 13" alloy wheels with Avon ZZR tyres; 185/55R13 front and 215/55R13 rear
•     4 point race harness
•     Q/R Race steering wheel
•     High performance focused instrumentation and ergonomic switchgear
•     Toggle switch ignition
•     Immobiliser
•     Sequential shift lights
•     Carbon aero screen
•     Black pack

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Cadillac ELR, 2014

 

 

 

 Cadillac ELR, 2014

Cadillac unveiled the 2014 ELR at the 2013 North American International Auto Show. The sleek luxury coupe features the first application of Extended Range Electric Vehicle technology by a full-line luxury automotive brand.

"ELR is an unprecedented combination of luxury, advanced engineering and progressive design in a coupe that is both sporty and environmentally friendly," said Bob Ferguson, Cadillac global vice president. "This is a pivotal moment in Cadillac's history, as we continue our product-driven expansion."

The Cadillac ELR delivers on the promise of the Converj Concept on which it is based. The exterior establishes a new, progressive proportion for the brand while the interior introduces a new design theme that will define future Cadillac models, emphasizing modern elegance, technology and precisely crafted details.

Cadillac ELR's confident and responsive EREV driving technology is enhanced with exclusive Regen on Demand and selectable drive modes that enhance driving and make the most of efficiency. Regen on Demand allows the driver to temporarily regenerate energy from the ELR's momentum into electricity that can be stored in the battery pack for later use. It is engaged via steering-wheel paddles adapted from traditional performance cars.

The industry-leading, proven EREV technology is uniquely tuned for Cadillac in the ELR. Most daily commutes will require zero gasoline with zero emissions. Longer trips are free from electric-vehicle range anxiety because EREV technology enables the same long-distance freedom as a conventional car.

Additional vehicle highlights:

• Enhanced AT-PZEV emissions meet California's criteria for single-occupancy access to high occupancy vehicle lanes
• Light-emitting diode (LED) headlamps, daytime running lamps and taillamps, as well as signature front and rear lighting elements
• Twenty-inch wheels paired with tires designed to balance responsive handling and a comfortable ride with efficiency
• Interior design featuring cut-and-sew accented leather incorporating sueded microfiber, chrome, wood and available carbon fiber finishes throughout
• Cadillac CUE with Navigation is standard. CUE is Cadillac's breakthrough system for connectivity and control, using Natural Voice Recognition, capacitive touch and hand gestures used on smart phones and tablets
• Programmable charging schedules and downloadable energy efficiency reports available online and through smartphone notification charging alerts
• Cadillac's advanced active safety features, including Safety Alert Seat, Forward Collision Alert and Lane Departure Warning, along with available Side Blind Zone Alert with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert and full-speed-range adaptive cruise control
• Advanced chassis and suspension systems, including HiPer Strut front suspension, compound-crank with Watts link rear suspension and Continuous Damping Control, which adjusts damping every two milliseconds for optimal ride and handling in all conditions
• Standard premium Bose 10-channel audio system with active noise cancellation.

Cadillac ELR production begins in the United States in late 2013 with sales starting in early 2014 in North America and expanding to global markets including China and Europe.

Design
The Cadillac ELR has an aggressive, forward-leaning profile that introduces a new, progressive theme and proportion in Cadillac's design evolution. It carries over almost unchanged from the 2009 Converj concept that inspired it. The overall shape is reinforced by a prominent, sweeping body line accented by 20-inch wheels pushed to the edges of the body.

Inside the Cadillac ELR's classic 2+2 layout is driver focused, emphasizing modern luxury, connectivity and precisely crafted details. The leather-trimmed interior blends authentic chrome and wood accents - and available carbon fiber trim - as well as a sueded microfiber headliner and steering wheel covered in leather and sueded microfiber. Additional features:

• Eight-inch configurable instrument and driver information displays, offering four configurations ranging from elegantly simple to technologically enhanced information
• Auto-glide/power-assisted covered storage/cup holder in the center console
• Fold-down rear seat backs accommodate longer items, including multiple sets of golf clubs
• LED-powered accent lighting in the instrument panel and doors
• Available Opus semi-aniline leather seating.

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Buick La Crosse, 2014

 

 

 Buick La Crosse, 2014

The Buick La Crosse represents an evolution of the landmark luxury sedan that established the brand's modern sedan lineup with design leadership and technological innovation.

The full-size Buick La Crosse offers new interior and exterior design cues, advanced safety technologies and enhanced in-vehicle connectivity. New front and rear styling, featuring available signature wing-shape LED daytime running lamps and LED wraparound tail lamps, complements its sculpted exterior design. The interior is more contemporary, with new seats, enhanced materials, redesigned central instrument panel and console - and an all-new, available Ultra Luxury Interior Package. The cabin also incorporates Buick's next-generation Intelli Link infotainment system, with intuitive controls and natural voice recognition.

New radar- and camera-based safety features help surround the new La Crosse with protection. They include Lane Change Alert, Side Blind Zone Alert, Lane Departure Warning, Forward Collision Alert, Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Automatic Collision Preparation. GM's patented Safety Alert Seat works with many of these features, providing seat vibration pulses indicating the direction of a potential crash threat.

Full Speed Adaptive Cruise Control is also offered. It senses traffic in front of the Buick La Crosse to adjust vehicle speed, including bringing the vehicle to a complete stop and accelerating again.

Globally, Buick LaCrosse sales have exceeded 500,000 since its 2009 introduction and U.S. sales topped 57,000 in 2012, making it more popular than many other full-size luxury sedans, including Lexus ES, Acura TL and Lincoln MKZ.

The suggested retail price is $34,060, including a $925 destination charge.

Buick La Crosse is available in a four trim levels, including La Crosse (1SB), Leather (1SL), Premium I (1SP) and Premium II (1SR). Standard equipment on all trims:

• Eight air bags, including rear-seat thorax air bags
• Stabili Trak electronic stability control with full-function traction control
• Four-wheel anti-lock brakes with Intelligent Brake Assist
• OnStar (complimentary six months of Directions and Connections service)
• Premium audio system with AM/FM/SiriusXM Radio/XM Travel Link (with three months of service), Bluetooth, USB port, CD player, auxiliary input jack, steering wheel-mounted controls, Buick Intelli Link eight-inch color touch-screen radio
• Leather-wrapped steering wheel
• Dual-zone automatic climate control
• Remote keyless entry
• Power windows with driver and front passenger express up/down
• Heated and power outside rear view mirrors
• Electric parking brake
• High-resolution driver information center
• Auto-dimming inside rearview mirror
• Eight-way power seat in addition to four-way power driver lumbar
• Remote start
• Universal Home Remote.

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Bugatti Veyron Jean Bugatti, 2013

 

 

 Bugatti Veyron Jean Bugatti, 2013

The French luxury car manufacturer intends the Bugatti Grand Sport Vitesse "Jean Bugatti" to be a celebration of the oldest son of company founder Ettore Bugatti and his most famous creation, the Type 57SC Atlantic. Like all other five models in the Legend series, the "Jean Bugatti" is limited to three vehicles. It costs 2.28 million euros (plus tax and other charges).

With its "Jean Bugatti" Legend model, Bugatti pays homage to a prominent figure in 20th century automotive history. Gianoberto Carlo Rembrandt Ettore Bugatti, known as Jean, was the eldest son of Ettore Bugatti and the most gifted of his four children. From the late 1920s onwards, Jean used his own structural and design ideas to exert more and more influence over the development of the company located in Molsheim, Alsace. In 1936, he took over as head of the company at the age of 27. By the time of his tragic accidental death in 1939, Jean had secured his place in automotive history thanks to his pioneering engine and chassis designs and concepts for vehicle bodies.

One of the most extraordinary designs created by Jean Bugatti has to be the Type 57SC Atlantic, one of the most exclusive and exceptional sport coupés ever built and ranking among the most expensive vintage cars in the world. The Legend vehicle to be unveiled in Frankfurt is a call back to La Voiture Noire ('The Black Car'), an Atlantic model which was driven by Jean Bugatti himself and has been lost since the Second World War.

The technology in the Bugatti Legend Edition "Jean Bugatti" is based on the Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport Vitesse, whose 8-litre W16 engine generates an enormous 1,200 PS and an unparalleled 1,500 Nm torque at 3,000 to 5,000 rpm, and which can go from 0 to 100 km/h in 2.6 seconds.

Design
For the first time ever, the Bugatti horseshoe sparkles in precious platinum.

In developing the Jean Bugatti Legend Edition, the designers at Bugatti aimed to follow the concept of its historic predecessor, the Type 57SC Atlantic La Voiture Noire, as closely as possible.

Exterior
The body of the Jean Bugatti Vitesse Legend Edition is constructed entirely from jet black, clear-coated carbon fibre, making it the embodiment of elegance and the apex of technical engineering. The use of platinum lends an air of extravagance to the vehicle, with the famous Bugatti horseshoe on the front grille and the EB logo on the rear taking on a resplendent appearance. Bugatti is using this precious material for the very first time on the exterior of one of its modern models.

The Interior
The designers also took care to adhere to the motif of the historic La Voiture Noire as much as possible for the interior of the Vitesse Jean Bugatti Legend Edition. As such, it has been fully fitted out in leather. The Vitesse will also feature the same beige and brown tones that were present in the Type 57SC Atlantic. The seats, instrument panel, steering wheel, dash panel, centre console, door trim panels and windscreen crossmember are all rendered in chocolate brown.

As in the original vehicle, the chocolate brown is contrasted against the leather upholstery in a light beige silk colour across the extended centre console. This upholstery is continued in the footwell, the outer door trim panels and the handle recesses. The colour of the decorative stitching in the vehicle has been selected to complement the leather used.

The intricate, particularly eye-catching embroidery on the doors and the cover of the rear storage compartment once again harks back to the vehicle's legendary predecessor, given that the side silhouette of the Type 57SC was embroidered onto the chocolate brown doors using contrasting beige silk thread. From a bird's eye view, the Atlantic's silhouette is immortalised using brown thread for decorative stitching on the rear beige-coloured storage compartment.

The results of this passion for detail and the desire to use the finest materials throughout the engineering process can be observed in the interior's steering wheel as well - as for the exterior of the vehicle, the EB logo has been styled in gleaming platinum. Also staying true to the original Type 57SC is the selector lever, which is rendered in valuable rosewood.

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