Sonic' youth provide the Blue Oval's ergonomic experts with audio feedback
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Ford has come to recognise that in-car tones must move with the times. The company's engineers have turned to Generation Y for a clearer idea of what works and what doesn't when it comes to keeping the driver informed audibly.
Research work in the United States into the science of sound shows certain types of alerts work better in certain situations and that sound frequencies and rhythms play an important role in the driver responding appropriately.
According to the research, any in-car alerts and sounds must also appeal to drivers of different ages in the various Ford markets across the globe.
"Ford engineers spend a tremendous amount of time finding just the right sound for just the right situation to help customers react to potential dangers," said Paul Mascarenas, Ford Vice President of Engineering, Global Product Development.
"We also listen to our customers so they listen to the car when needed, we don't want them to be annoyed and tune out important warnings."
It seems the car manufacturer had fun with the research, getting into tasks like Foley sound design for a film. The company has workshopped a wide array of sounds such as a golf ball rattling into a cup, bird and insect noises and youthful club music like the "Youth Scratch" sound created in the likeness of a DJ scratching a vinyl record. Many of these experimental sounds do not make the final cut.
Some sounds that were considered but not adopted, such as the sound that mimicked the chirping of crickets, were too literal to be effective.
Other sounds that do well in consumer preference testing do not meet the standard for eliciting the proper driver response, such as the soft, electronic beat sound "Techno01", similar to club music around the world. "Techno01" did well in the subjective studies but was not audible enough to cut through the car's background sounds.
Others couldn't overcome a generational divide, such as the "Youth Scratch" sound so loved by Generation Y. Ford discovered that it appealed to younger drivers, but not to older drivers.
Finding the right universal sound that works for all drivers is a challenging objective and one that transcends geographic boundaries.
"Ford has an extensive process for developing sounds just as a conductor brings together different instruments to make a single sound," said Alex Petniunas, technical expert for Sound Quality.
"But the goal of our sounds is not to entertain you; it's to help make sure you respond quickly to the driving environment that can change instantly."
Because sensory perception and preferences vary around the globe, Ford also tests some sounds in different regions to develop uniform cues that work in specific consumer markets.
For example, 24 sound options were tested for a new global turn signal chime for Europe, North America, South America and Asia.
"There are both creative and technical elements in fine-tuning our sounds to get them exactly right," said Petniunas. "A key objective is identifying the kinds of warnings drivers will find both more effective and easier to understand so that safety features are used correctly and more frequently."
A team of Ford engineers spend their days dreaming up sounds and subjecting them to a battery of tests to determine which warnings help drivers best react to possible dangers and work in harmony with other sounds in the vehicle.
In developing its safety sound cues, Ford relies on principles of music theory, mathematical analysis and psychoacoustics (the study of sound perception) to research properties such as pleasantness, loudness and sharpness.
As a musical composer might select from different types of sound to cast a specific mood, Ford sound technicians choose from a palette of psychoacoustic parameters to create the ideal acoustical and vibrational environment.
Ford included the following automotive systems into the acoustic design research:
BLIS (Blind Spot Information System): with cross-traffic alert: Identifies when a vehicle enters the defined blind spot zone and illuminates an indicator light on the corresponding exterior rear view mirror, providing a warning that a vehicle is approaching. An audible alert is sounded as well.
Collision warning with brake support: This technology is designed to help drivers avoid rear-end collisions. Using long-range radar hidden in the front of the vehicle, collision warning detects moving vehicles ahead and alerts the driver of a collision risk with an alarm and warning light.
MyKey: Allows parents to limit vehicle's top speed and radio volume to encourage teens to drive safer and improve fuel efficiency. The audio controls are important to maintaining a volume level that ensures drivers can hear outside warnings, such as emergency response vehicles and traffic hazard signals. It also encourages seat belt use, provides earlier low-fuel warnings and can be programmed to sound chimes at 72km/h (45mph), 88.5 km/h (55 mph) or 105 km/h (65 mph).
Belt-Minder: Seat belt reminder technology for the front occupants takes over after the initial seat belt reminder stops chiming. If the occupants remain unbuckled, the system chimes and flashes a warning lamp periodically for five minutes, or until the driver buckles up, whichever comes first.
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site...
Thứ Ba, 27 tháng 3, 2012
Last HRT 05 Brock V8 for sale
It was the last V8 Supercar prepared by HRT to wear the famous number 05 -- and it's now up for grabs
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One of Australia's most iconic V8 Supercars is on sale. Factory-prepped by HRT for Peter Brock's final drive at Bathurst, the VY Commodore is in original condition and still wear's Brock's famous number '05'.
A genuine collector's item, the 05 VY Commodore was the first car built by HRT (Holden Racing Team) under the 'project blueprint' program and was first campaigned in mid-2003 by Todd Kelly for round seven at Queensland Raceway. Kelly, partnered by Mark Skaife, also entered the car at Bathurst that year.
Kelly remained in the car throughout the rest of the 2003 season and for much of the following year, until the endurance races at Sandown and Bathurst. For those two events the car was crewed by Brock and well-known BTCC driver (and 5th Gear presenter), Jason Plato.
"The car is in original condition, it's been freshened up with a new paint job, but this is the genuine item and comes with the original log book," said current owner Al D'Alberto.
"It's the last 05 HRT Commodore, there hasn't been one since."
The car went on to be raced in the 2005 V8 Supercar Championship Series by Rick Kelly, before being steered in 2006 by Tony D'Alberto in the Fujitsu Series.
"The car looks fantastic and no doubt holds plenty of memories and stories for HRT and Peter Brock fans," said D'Alberto.
Brock died in 2006 during a tarmac rally in Western Australia. To this day, he is yet to be overtaken for the number of wins 'at the mountain'.
To find out more about the car and obtain relevant details to its sale, genuine enquirers are invited to contact Al D'Alberto at ald@bellmont.com.au.
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site...
discount new cars » Get the best price on a new Holden
One of Australia's most iconic V8 Supercars is on sale. Factory-prepped by HRT for Peter Brock's final drive at Bathurst, the VY Commodore is in original condition and still wear's Brock's famous number '05'.
A genuine collector's item, the 05 VY Commodore was the first car built by HRT (Holden Racing Team) under the 'project blueprint' program and was first campaigned in mid-2003 by Todd Kelly for round seven at Queensland Raceway. Kelly, partnered by Mark Skaife, also entered the car at Bathurst that year.
Kelly remained in the car throughout the rest of the 2003 season and for much of the following year, until the endurance races at Sandown and Bathurst. For those two events the car was crewed by Brock and well-known BTCC driver (and 5th Gear presenter), Jason Plato.
"The car is in original condition, it's been freshened up with a new paint job, but this is the genuine item and comes with the original log book," said current owner Al D'Alberto.
"It's the last 05 HRT Commodore, there hasn't been one since."
The car went on to be raced in the 2005 V8 Supercar Championship Series by Rick Kelly, before being steered in 2006 by Tony D'Alberto in the Fujitsu Series.
"The car looks fantastic and no doubt holds plenty of memories and stories for HRT and Peter Brock fans," said D'Alberto.
Brock died in 2006 during a tarmac rally in Western Australia. To this day, he is yet to be overtaken for the number of wins 'at the mountain'.
To find out more about the car and obtain relevant details to its sale, genuine enquirers are invited to contact Al D'Alberto at ald@bellmont.com.au.
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site...
Carsales' brand new car competition
Win $5000 cash towards your new-car purchase
The Carsales Network is offering new-car buyers a chance to score big during the next three months. Buy a new car through a participating dealer and you'll go into the draw for a $5000 cash prize.
The competition runs from November 4 to February 5, 2011, and is open to anyone making an enquiry through the Carsales Network and following through with a sale at the dealership.
So if you want to cover the cost of driving your car out of the showroom and then some, here's your chance. Competition terms and conditions can be read at: www.carsales.com.au/brandnewcarcomp.
The Carsales Network is offering new-car buyers a chance to score big during the next three months. Buy a new car through a participating dealer and you'll go into the draw for a $5000 cash prize.
The competition runs from November 4 to February 5, 2011, and is open to anyone making an enquiry through the Carsales Network and following through with a sale at the dealership.
So if you want to cover the cost of driving your car out of the showroom and then some, here's your chance. Competition terms and conditions can be read at: www.carsales.com.au/brandnewcarcomp.
Thứ Hai, 26 tháng 3, 2012
Porsche unleashes Cayman R
Stuttgart sports car games specialist conjures up a ripped and stripped Cayman that all but matches the entry-level 911
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Porsche is currently in the midst of a model derivative frenzy. At the recent Paris motor show it gave us the 911 GTS and Speedster, and it's now busted out the hardcore Cayman R at the Los Angeles motor show.
Rumours that such a model was in the works have been circulating for some time, but most had speculated it would wear 'Club Sport' badges -- a moniker previously used on the likes of the 928 and 968.
The Cayman R is a stripper in the true sense of the word as Porsche has ditched the air-con and stereo, and fitted lightweight 19in alloy wheels (as featured on the Boxster Spyder), carbonfibre sports bucket seats and lighter interior door panels (a la 911 GT3 RS) to pare 55kg from its kerb weight.
Porsche's boffins have also tweaked the Cayman S's 3.4-litre flat-six to eke out an additional 8kW for a total of 243kW. However, peak torque remains unchanged at 370Nm.
The extra oomph and reduced weight of the Cayman R enables it to sprint to 100km/h in 5.0sec with the six-speed manual gearbox (two-tenths quicker than the S), while top speed is up to 282km/h -- five-kays quicker than the stocker.
Choosing the PDK (dual-clutch sequential) version further sharpens performance, and it knocks off the 0-100km/h split in a 911-threatening 4.7sec.
The car's dynamic abilities are boosted by a standard limited-slip differential and sports suspension that drops the car 20mm closer to the deck. The car's fuel tank has shrunk slightly to 54 litres.
Meanwhile, the aero/visual-enhancing 'Cayman Aerokit' brings a fixed rear spoiler in a contrasting colour, black-framed halogen headlights, contrasting side mirrors and Porsche side stripe decals. Also exclusive to the R will be the Peridot metallic paint adorning the LA show car.
The Cayman R launches internationally in early-2011, and we should receive it shortly after, priced around $10k higher than the Cayman S.
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site...
discount new cars » Get the best price on a new Porsche
Porsche is currently in the midst of a model derivative frenzy. At the recent Paris motor show it gave us the 911 GTS and Speedster, and it's now busted out the hardcore Cayman R at the Los Angeles motor show.
Rumours that such a model was in the works have been circulating for some time, but most had speculated it would wear 'Club Sport' badges -- a moniker previously used on the likes of the 928 and 968.
The Cayman R is a stripper in the true sense of the word as Porsche has ditched the air-con and stereo, and fitted lightweight 19in alloy wheels (as featured on the Boxster Spyder), carbonfibre sports bucket seats and lighter interior door panels (a la 911 GT3 RS) to pare 55kg from its kerb weight.
Porsche's boffins have also tweaked the Cayman S's 3.4-litre flat-six to eke out an additional 8kW for a total of 243kW. However, peak torque remains unchanged at 370Nm.
The extra oomph and reduced weight of the Cayman R enables it to sprint to 100km/h in 5.0sec with the six-speed manual gearbox (two-tenths quicker than the S), while top speed is up to 282km/h -- five-kays quicker than the stocker.
Choosing the PDK (dual-clutch sequential) version further sharpens performance, and it knocks off the 0-100km/h split in a 911-threatening 4.7sec.
The car's dynamic abilities are boosted by a standard limited-slip differential and sports suspension that drops the car 20mm closer to the deck. The car's fuel tank has shrunk slightly to 54 litres.
Meanwhile, the aero/visual-enhancing 'Cayman Aerokit' brings a fixed rear spoiler in a contrasting colour, black-framed halogen headlights, contrasting side mirrors and Porsche side stripe decals. Also exclusive to the R will be the Peridot metallic paint adorning the LA show car.
The Cayman R launches internationally in early-2011, and we should receive it shortly after, priced around $10k higher than the Cayman S.
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site...
Subaru Impreza design study breaks cover
Unveiled at the LA Auto Show, the latest concept car from Subaru previews the next generation Impreza's overall style and new technologies
discount new cars » Get the best price on a new Subaru The covers have come off the Subaru Impreza Design Concept at the 2010 LA Auto Show. As we anticipated in our earlier report, the concept is a four-door prototype providing a sneak peak of how the next generation Impreza will take shape.
Subaru says the new Impreza concept was "Designed to show a possible direction for future Impreza models," and hinted at a number of new technologies that will feature in the new next gen Impreza range.
On top of the tight, muscular, and somewhat angular styling, which the car maker calls a "simple and clean" style, the Subaru Impreza Design Concept boasts a new driver assistance safety system, dubbed EyeSight.
Like similar systems available in high-end prestige cars, EyeSight makes use of a stereo camera to monitor traffic in front of the vehicle, and though details are sparse it's expected the "collision avoidance technology" will apply brakes and/or turn the steering wheel to help avoid a crash.
The concept car also makes use of side rearview cameras instead of traditional wing mirrors.
The interior of the concept car has also been given the futuristic treatment, with touch pad technology making its debut on a Subaru. "Touch panels are used on the sporty D-shaped steering wheel too, allowing intuitive access to applications," reads the Subaru press statement.
Power for the Impreza concept comes from "a next generation horizontally opposed Boxer engine, with improved environmental performance". Direct-injection technology is most likely for Subaru's new boxer engines, and in this instance the concept is hooked up to a Lineartronic continuously variable transmission, or CVT, which may suggest the Japanese car maker is looking at replacing all automatic gearboxes with CVTs.
Subaru Australia Managing Director, Nick Senior, said: "We're very excited by the new style direction hinted at in this concept.
"At the same time FHI has underscored its future commitment to Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive plus new generation Boxer engines and transmissions.
"Combined with the fantastic style and quality of the cabin too, we’re looking forward to seeing some of these themes become reality," added Senior.
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site.
discount new cars » Get the best price on a new Subaru The covers have come off the Subaru Impreza Design Concept at the 2010 LA Auto Show. As we anticipated in our earlier report, the concept is a four-door prototype providing a sneak peak of how the next generation Impreza will take shape.
Subaru says the new Impreza concept was "Designed to show a possible direction for future Impreza models," and hinted at a number of new technologies that will feature in the new next gen Impreza range.
On top of the tight, muscular, and somewhat angular styling, which the car maker calls a "simple and clean" style, the Subaru Impreza Design Concept boasts a new driver assistance safety system, dubbed EyeSight.
Like similar systems available in high-end prestige cars, EyeSight makes use of a stereo camera to monitor traffic in front of the vehicle, and though details are sparse it's expected the "collision avoidance technology" will apply brakes and/or turn the steering wheel to help avoid a crash.
The concept car also makes use of side rearview cameras instead of traditional wing mirrors.
The interior of the concept car has also been given the futuristic treatment, with touch pad technology making its debut on a Subaru. "Touch panels are used on the sporty D-shaped steering wheel too, allowing intuitive access to applications," reads the Subaru press statement.
Power for the Impreza concept comes from "a next generation horizontally opposed Boxer engine, with improved environmental performance". Direct-injection technology is most likely for Subaru's new boxer engines, and in this instance the concept is hooked up to a Lineartronic continuously variable transmission, or CVT, which may suggest the Japanese car maker is looking at replacing all automatic gearboxes with CVTs.
Subaru Australia Managing Director, Nick Senior, said: "We're very excited by the new style direction hinted at in this concept.
"At the same time FHI has underscored its future commitment to Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive plus new generation Boxer engines and transmissions.
"Combined with the fantastic style and quality of the cabin too, we’re looking forward to seeing some of these themes become reality," added Senior.
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site.
Kia Optima Hybrid revealed in LA
High-tech green sedan takes a bow ahead of its release to the US market in 2011
discount new cars » Get the best price on a new Kia
Kia has revealed a hybrid variant of its new Optima sedan at this year's Los Angeles Auto Show. The unveiling presented the company with an opportunity to showcase its newly developed full-parallel hybrid system.
Kia claims the system delivers a class-leading fuel economy figure of 5.8L/100km on the combined cycle, a 40.7 per cent improvement over the conventionally-powered variant. At the same time, Optima Hybrid achieves petrol sedan-like performance with the 0-100km/h sprint managed in just 9.2 seconds and a top speed of 195km/h.
Kia says the impressive figures are the result of its "ingenious, simple and cost-effective" parallel hybrid system. A 2.4-litre four-cylinder (154kW/265Nm) petrol engine is mated to a small (30kW/205Nm) Interior Permanent Magnet synchronous electric motor driving the front wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission.
In lieu of a traditional torque converter, Kia has employed an electric motor, high-efficiency oil pump and laminated-type wet clutch that allows the petrol engine to be de-coupled from the powertrain so as to allow full electric operation.
Described by Kia engineers as a Transmission-Mounted-Electric-Drive (TMED), the electric motor sits within the car's extended transmission casing (between the petrol engine and the automatic gearbox) and is the world's first oil-cooled system. The system's configuration also does away with the high-capacity electric motor and generator found in many hybrid systems, saving both weight and cost.
The electric motor switches into hybrid operation and serves as both a secondary engine (during full acceleration and hill-climbing) and a generator to recharge the battery pack as necessary. Whenever the car comes to a stop for more than a few seconds, the engine automatically shuts off to completely eliminate emissions. Optima Hybrid can effectively operate in all-electric mode from rest to 100km/h, producing zero emissions.
"The new Optima Hybrid features a unique architecture and is packed with innovative technologies that demonstrate Kia's on-going commitment to investing in R&D, and to developing environmentally friendly vehicles for the future," explained Vice-Chairman of Kia Motors Corporation, Mr Hyoung-Keun Lee.
"Although these new technologies presented our engineers with a series of complex challenges to overcome, the resulting Optima Hybrid delivers a fully automatic, seamless and enjoyable drive, together with real-world benefits for our customers."
Powering Kia's electric motor is a boot-mounted lithium polymer battery pack developed in partnership with LG Chem. The pack provides an optimum balance between power delivery, energy density and thermal stability, and compared with nickel-metal hydride batteries is 10 per cent more efficient, weighs as much as 30 per cent less and occupies up to 40 per cent less volume. Kia says the 43.6kg battery pack will not require replacement during the vehicle's lifespan which is at least 10 years and 250,000 kilometres.
The complete hybrid system is controlled by the Optima's Hybrid Control Unit (HCU) which integrates the function of engine, transmission, battery pack and voltage converter. The HCU also gives Optima Hybrid a fail-safe back-up capability and "limp-home" mode. All the HCU's functions are displayed on the car's instrument panel.
Further improving the car's petrol engine efficiency, Kia has modified its 2.4-litre Theta II engine to operate on an Atkinson cycle, raising the compression ratio by 20 per cent and reducing fuel consumption by up to 10 per cent. Although altering the engine in such a way does reduce its torque, this is more than compensated for by input from the electric motor.
The all-new Kia Optima Hybrid will go on sale in the US early next year but is not yet slated for Australian release, Kia's local representatives saying it's under consideration.
"It is certainly something we are considering closely as we move forward with Kia's increasing exposure to alternate fuel technology," said Kia Motors Australia Chief Operating Officer, Tony Barlow.
"This is the sort of well-considered and developed technology that is now a cornerstone of Kia's expanding model range."
The petrol-powered Kia Optima will go on sale in Australia from January.
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at the carsales mobile site
discount new cars » Get the best price on a new Kia
Kia has revealed a hybrid variant of its new Optima sedan at this year's Los Angeles Auto Show. The unveiling presented the company with an opportunity to showcase its newly developed full-parallel hybrid system.
Kia claims the system delivers a class-leading fuel economy figure of 5.8L/100km on the combined cycle, a 40.7 per cent improvement over the conventionally-powered variant. At the same time, Optima Hybrid achieves petrol sedan-like performance with the 0-100km/h sprint managed in just 9.2 seconds and a top speed of 195km/h.
Kia says the impressive figures are the result of its "ingenious, simple and cost-effective" parallel hybrid system. A 2.4-litre four-cylinder (154kW/265Nm) petrol engine is mated to a small (30kW/205Nm) Interior Permanent Magnet synchronous electric motor driving the front wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission.
In lieu of a traditional torque converter, Kia has employed an electric motor, high-efficiency oil pump and laminated-type wet clutch that allows the petrol engine to be de-coupled from the powertrain so as to allow full electric operation.
Described by Kia engineers as a Transmission-Mounted-Electric-Drive (TMED), the electric motor sits within the car's extended transmission casing (between the petrol engine and the automatic gearbox) and is the world's first oil-cooled system. The system's configuration also does away with the high-capacity electric motor and generator found in many hybrid systems, saving both weight and cost.
The electric motor switches into hybrid operation and serves as both a secondary engine (during full acceleration and hill-climbing) and a generator to recharge the battery pack as necessary. Whenever the car comes to a stop for more than a few seconds, the engine automatically shuts off to completely eliminate emissions. Optima Hybrid can effectively operate in all-electric mode from rest to 100km/h, producing zero emissions.
"The new Optima Hybrid features a unique architecture and is packed with innovative technologies that demonstrate Kia's on-going commitment to investing in R&D, and to developing environmentally friendly vehicles for the future," explained Vice-Chairman of Kia Motors Corporation, Mr Hyoung-Keun Lee.
"Although these new technologies presented our engineers with a series of complex challenges to overcome, the resulting Optima Hybrid delivers a fully automatic, seamless and enjoyable drive, together with real-world benefits for our customers."
Powering Kia's electric motor is a boot-mounted lithium polymer battery pack developed in partnership with LG Chem. The pack provides an optimum balance between power delivery, energy density and thermal stability, and compared with nickel-metal hydride batteries is 10 per cent more efficient, weighs as much as 30 per cent less and occupies up to 40 per cent less volume. Kia says the 43.6kg battery pack will not require replacement during the vehicle's lifespan which is at least 10 years and 250,000 kilometres.
The complete hybrid system is controlled by the Optima's Hybrid Control Unit (HCU) which integrates the function of engine, transmission, battery pack and voltage converter. The HCU also gives Optima Hybrid a fail-safe back-up capability and "limp-home" mode. All the HCU's functions are displayed on the car's instrument panel.
Further improving the car's petrol engine efficiency, Kia has modified its 2.4-litre Theta II engine to operate on an Atkinson cycle, raising the compression ratio by 20 per cent and reducing fuel consumption by up to 10 per cent. Although altering the engine in such a way does reduce its torque, this is more than compensated for by input from the electric motor.
The all-new Kia Optima Hybrid will go on sale in the US early next year but is not yet slated for Australian release, Kia's local representatives saying it's under consideration.
"It is certainly something we are considering closely as we move forward with Kia's increasing exposure to alternate fuel technology," said Kia Motors Australia Chief Operating Officer, Tony Barlow.
"This is the sort of well-considered and developed technology that is now a cornerstone of Kia's expanding model range."
The petrol-powered Kia Optima will go on sale in Australia from January.
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at the carsales mobile site
Thứ Bảy, 24 tháng 3, 2012
More Indian Suzukis Down Under
Home market demand may be the factor that decides whether more Indian-built Suzukis come Down Under
discount new cars » Get the best price on a new Suzuki
The strength of the burgeoning Indian new car games market could be a key factor that decides whether more Maruti-built Suzukis come Down Under. With the Indian home market set to finish the 2010 calendar year at close to double the growth rate initially estimated by Maruti-Suzuki in 2009 (around 30 per cent YOY) demand for production capacity is at a premium.
Maruti-Suzuki builds Alto for Australia and over 110 other markets worldwide. Its production portfolio includes Swift and SX4 as well a version of the Euro-focussed Splash. In 2012 it will add a new compact MPV to its production lines (see separate story).
But local demand for all of the established models and the expected take up of the new MPV and other updated models is so strong the company may put off plans to increase its export variants.
Last year Maruti-Suzuki exported around 147,000 cars. This year of that number is expected to increase only marginally to around 150,000. This is less than15 per cent of total projected 2010 production of over 1.0m cars.
By 2015 Maruti-Suzuki expects to build around 1.75m cars per annum. This figure is not, however, expected to match the growth in demand for its products as the Indian market is projected to soar to close to 5.0m vehicles.
Suzuki Australia chief Tak Hayasaki told the Carsales Network that the factors behind the decisions from where to source various new and existing models were complex. He stated that assuming sourcing from Maruti-Suzuki was a given because of lower production costs was "too simplistic".
"Alto is only built in India so that decision is simple, but where future models may come from, that is a harder decision," Hayasaki explained.
"Though there may be some production cost advantages, the cost of freight from India is higher and the time taken and flexibility [of shipping timetables] is also a consideration. And Indian domestic demand may also be problematic for export growth."
Hayasaki said that though Maruti-Suzuki could produce a version of Splash suitable for developed markets like Australia, demand from the Indian market may sway the decision.
This sentiment was backed up by Maruti-Suzuki international region sales and marketing exec, Rajesh Singh.
"We may be told [by Suzuki head office] to concentrate on our domestic market rather than work to increase exports. In the case of Ritz [the Indian market name for Splash], it might be that another plant would benefit from the volume [Australia might generate]. The demand from Europe is down so Magyar [Hungary] could be tasked to build them," Singh said.
Suzuki will commission a new production facility in Thailand in 2012. The Australian-Thai free trade agreement could complicate the issue of sourcing further, Hayasaki says.
"It might even come down to exchange rate. That could be the deciding factor," he said.
In the meantime local Suzuki boss Hayasaki says that his brand will increase Alto sales in 2011. He believes that annual sales of around 6000 units can rise to closer to five figures next year.
"There is strong activity in the [sub-light] segment from a growing number of manufacturers. We believe this [activity] is good for Alto. Suzuki is still a brand that people are getting to know in Australia."
And suggests Hayasaki, Indian-sourced vehicles could get a further boost from an unexpected sector -- Aussie farmers.
Following in the wheel tracks of their Kiwi equivalents, local farmers could soon be driving Sierra-based Maruti-Suzuki Gypsys on the land. Though not able to be complied for onroad use, the lightweight and capable turbodiesel four-wheel drives could be sold Down Under to take on side-by-side heavy duty ATVs from manufacturers like John Deere and Polaris.
Hayasaki says the company is currently exploring options to add the vehicle in both ute and wagon versions as a non-ADR 'industrial' model. Suzuki New Zealand has already imported a small number of the vehicles, he stated.
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at the carsales mobile site.
discount new cars » Get the best price on a new Suzuki
The strength of the burgeoning Indian new car games market could be a key factor that decides whether more Maruti-built Suzukis come Down Under. With the Indian home market set to finish the 2010 calendar year at close to double the growth rate initially estimated by Maruti-Suzuki in 2009 (around 30 per cent YOY) demand for production capacity is at a premium.
Maruti-Suzuki builds Alto for Australia and over 110 other markets worldwide. Its production portfolio includes Swift and SX4 as well a version of the Euro-focussed Splash. In 2012 it will add a new compact MPV to its production lines (see separate story).
But local demand for all of the established models and the expected take up of the new MPV and other updated models is so strong the company may put off plans to increase its export variants.
Last year Maruti-Suzuki exported around 147,000 cars. This year of that number is expected to increase only marginally to around 150,000. This is less than15 per cent of total projected 2010 production of over 1.0m cars.
By 2015 Maruti-Suzuki expects to build around 1.75m cars per annum. This figure is not, however, expected to match the growth in demand for its products as the Indian market is projected to soar to close to 5.0m vehicles.
Suzuki Australia chief Tak Hayasaki told the Carsales Network that the factors behind the decisions from where to source various new and existing models were complex. He stated that assuming sourcing from Maruti-Suzuki was a given because of lower production costs was "too simplistic".
"Alto is only built in India so that decision is simple, but where future models may come from, that is a harder decision," Hayasaki explained.
"Though there may be some production cost advantages, the cost of freight from India is higher and the time taken and flexibility [of shipping timetables] is also a consideration. And Indian domestic demand may also be problematic for export growth."
Hayasaki said that though Maruti-Suzuki could produce a version of Splash suitable for developed markets like Australia, demand from the Indian market may sway the decision.
This sentiment was backed up by Maruti-Suzuki international region sales and marketing exec, Rajesh Singh.
"We may be told [by Suzuki head office] to concentrate on our domestic market rather than work to increase exports. In the case of Ritz [the Indian market name for Splash], it might be that another plant would benefit from the volume [Australia might generate]. The demand from Europe is down so Magyar [Hungary] could be tasked to build them," Singh said.
Suzuki will commission a new production facility in Thailand in 2012. The Australian-Thai free trade agreement could complicate the issue of sourcing further, Hayasaki says.
"It might even come down to exchange rate. That could be the deciding factor," he said.
In the meantime local Suzuki boss Hayasaki says that his brand will increase Alto sales in 2011. He believes that annual sales of around 6000 units can rise to closer to five figures next year.
"There is strong activity in the [sub-light] segment from a growing number of manufacturers. We believe this [activity] is good for Alto. Suzuki is still a brand that people are getting to know in Australia."
And suggests Hayasaki, Indian-sourced vehicles could get a further boost from an unexpected sector -- Aussie farmers.
Following in the wheel tracks of their Kiwi equivalents, local farmers could soon be driving Sierra-based Maruti-Suzuki Gypsys on the land. Though not able to be complied for onroad use, the lightweight and capable turbodiesel four-wheel drives could be sold Down Under to take on side-by-side heavy duty ATVs from manufacturers like John Deere and Polaris.
Hayasaki says the company is currently exploring options to add the vehicle in both ute and wagon versions as a non-ADR 'industrial' model. Suzuki New Zealand has already imported a small number of the vehicles, he stated.
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at the carsales mobile site.
New X3, same price
BMW announces local pricing for its all-new mid-size SUV
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Ahead of its local launch in March, BMW Australia has today announced local pricing for its all-new X3 medium SUV.
With a starting price identical to the outgoing model, BMW has ensured the new X3 remains a strong value proposition for family buyers, despite substantial technology, design and performance improvements.
Available with diesel and petrol power, the all-new second generation X3 starts at $62,200 for the entry-level X3 xDrive20d, the list price equally that of its predecessor.
The X3 xDrive20d is powered by a 135kW/380Nm four-cylinder turbodiesel engine boasting fuel economy returns of 5.6L/100km and CO2 emissions of just 147g/km. Despite these frugal statistics, the base model X3 offers impressive acceleration figures, managing the 0-100km/h sprint in just 8.5 seconds.
Joining the turbodiesel offering, a six-cylinder petrol-powered model is also available from launch, the X3 xDrive28i priced from $71,900.
Introducing a 3.0-litre six-cylinder petrol engine to the range, the X3 xDrive28i develops an output of 190kW/310Nm for a 0-100km/h time of 6.9 seconds. The combined fuel consumption tally is 9.0L/100km while CO2 emissions are 210g/km.
A third, more powerful diesel option will be available mid-year, the $74,990 X3 xDrive30d. Despite offering $10,000 of additional value, the top-spec diesel model is actually $2500 cheaper than the outgoing model.
Featuring a 3.0-litre six-cylinder turbodiesel engine, the flagship X3 equals its petrol-powered sibling with 190kW but offers a brawny 560Nm of torque. The X3 XDrive30d also outperforms its petrol counterpart, hitting 100km/h in just 6.2 seconds. Fuel consumption remains impressive at 6.0L/100km.
Among a generous standard equipment list, all new X3 models feature a rear view camera with high resolution 6.5-inch colour monitor, USB audio interface, Bluetooth connectivity, keyless start and new eight-speed automatic transmission.
Servotronic electric power steering makes parking easy while also saving fuel, and for added practicality, the rear seat can be split 40:20:40 as required. BMW says the new X3's load space is the largest in its class at 550-litres. With all seats flipped down, this area expands to a capacious 1600-litres.
The braked towing capacity of the new BMW X3 is 2000kg.
X3 xDrive28i models gain 18-inch alloy wheels and electric seat adjustment (with memory function), whilst the X3 xDrive30d adds an X-Line styling package and automatic tailgate operation.
Optional packages include a 'Performance Control' system for improved agility when cornering and 'Dynamic Damper Control' for improved ride quality over varying road surfaces.
Additionally, 'Variable Sports Steering' reduces the degree of steering wheel movement required to further enhance response and agility.
As part of BMW's EfficientDynamics programme, automatic stop-start, brake energy generation and the aforementioned electronic power steering help trim fuel consumption to achieve best-in-class results.
A comprehensive array of BMW ConnectedDrive technologies complement X3's versatility with internet access available for the first time. The system operates through compatible mobile phones and is transferred to the vehicle's iDrive system via Bluetooth.
"The new BMW X3 combines performance, elegance and practicality all in equal measure making it an especially relevant vehicle for the Australian market,” said BMW Group Australia Acting Managing Director, Peter Buchauer. "In essence, it is the ultimate all-rounder.”
More information on the new BMW X3 can be found at our launch review by clicking on this link.
BMW X3 Australian pricing:
X3 xDrive20d $62,200
X3 xDrive28i $71,900
X3 xDrive30d $74,900
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at the carsales mobile site
prestige new cars » Get the best price on a new BMW
Ahead of its local launch in March, BMW Australia has today announced local pricing for its all-new X3 medium SUV.
With a starting price identical to the outgoing model, BMW has ensured the new X3 remains a strong value proposition for family buyers, despite substantial technology, design and performance improvements.
Available with diesel and petrol power, the all-new second generation X3 starts at $62,200 for the entry-level X3 xDrive20d, the list price equally that of its predecessor.
The X3 xDrive20d is powered by a 135kW/380Nm four-cylinder turbodiesel engine boasting fuel economy returns of 5.6L/100km and CO2 emissions of just 147g/km. Despite these frugal statistics, the base model X3 offers impressive acceleration figures, managing the 0-100km/h sprint in just 8.5 seconds.
Joining the turbodiesel offering, a six-cylinder petrol-powered model is also available from launch, the X3 xDrive28i priced from $71,900.
Introducing a 3.0-litre six-cylinder petrol engine to the range, the X3 xDrive28i develops an output of 190kW/310Nm for a 0-100km/h time of 6.9 seconds. The combined fuel consumption tally is 9.0L/100km while CO2 emissions are 210g/km.
A third, more powerful diesel option will be available mid-year, the $74,990 X3 xDrive30d. Despite offering $10,000 of additional value, the top-spec diesel model is actually $2500 cheaper than the outgoing model.
Featuring a 3.0-litre six-cylinder turbodiesel engine, the flagship X3 equals its petrol-powered sibling with 190kW but offers a brawny 560Nm of torque. The X3 XDrive30d also outperforms its petrol counterpart, hitting 100km/h in just 6.2 seconds. Fuel consumption remains impressive at 6.0L/100km.
Among a generous standard equipment list, all new X3 models feature a rear view camera with high resolution 6.5-inch colour monitor, USB audio interface, Bluetooth connectivity, keyless start and new eight-speed automatic transmission.
Servotronic electric power steering makes parking easy while also saving fuel, and for added practicality, the rear seat can be split 40:20:40 as required. BMW says the new X3's load space is the largest in its class at 550-litres. With all seats flipped down, this area expands to a capacious 1600-litres.
The braked towing capacity of the new BMW X3 is 2000kg.
X3 xDrive28i models gain 18-inch alloy wheels and electric seat adjustment (with memory function), whilst the X3 xDrive30d adds an X-Line styling package and automatic tailgate operation.
Optional packages include a 'Performance Control' system for improved agility when cornering and 'Dynamic Damper Control' for improved ride quality over varying road surfaces.
Additionally, 'Variable Sports Steering' reduces the degree of steering wheel movement required to further enhance response and agility.
As part of BMW's EfficientDynamics programme, automatic stop-start, brake energy generation and the aforementioned electronic power steering help trim fuel consumption to achieve best-in-class results.
A comprehensive array of BMW ConnectedDrive technologies complement X3's versatility with internet access available for the first time. The system operates through compatible mobile phones and is transferred to the vehicle's iDrive system via Bluetooth.
"The new BMW X3 combines performance, elegance and practicality all in equal measure making it an especially relevant vehicle for the Australian market,” said BMW Group Australia Acting Managing Director, Peter Buchauer. "In essence, it is the ultimate all-rounder.”
More information on the new BMW X3 can be found at our launch review by clicking on this link.
BMW X3 Australian pricing:
X3 xDrive20d $62,200
X3 xDrive28i $71,900
X3 xDrive30d $74,900
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at the carsales mobile site
MPV to be first all-Indian Suzuki
Maruti-Suzuki's first clean-sheet car is a seven-seater... And it could come to Oz
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The first Suzuki designed, styled and engineered in India could be on international roads, including Australia within three years.
Displayed in concept form at the 2010 Delhi autoshow last January, the R3 is a three-row, five-door MPV that will go on sale in India in early 2012. To be available in both petrol and turbodiesel versions, it is expected to quickly become one of Maruti-Suzuki's top-selling domestic models.
Maruti currently builds a range of Suzuki-designed and engineered products at its two plants near Delhi. This year the company will build more than one million cars including all Australian market Altos. It dominates the Indian domestic marketplace with nearly 50 per cent share.
The R3 will be Maruti's first ground-up car. Though engineered primarily for India and other developing markets (both left and right-hand drive), Maruti sources say the vehicle could be upgraded to suit developed markets such as Australia and Europe "within a year or so" of its on sale date in India.
Re-engineering would need to include the incorporation of full safety equipment and driver aids such as curtain airbags and stability control. The initial tranche of development on the car is largely completed without the necessary work to comply the car for high-spec markets.
Maruti will not market the car under the R3 badge. The company's sales and marketing execs say, however, that the official name has yet to be decided.
The vehicle will be powered by the choice of a four-cylinder 1.2-litre variant of the K Series petrol triple that currently powers the Alto. The most popular version in India, however, will use the same 55kW/190Nm 1.3-litre DDiS turbodiesel engine that dominates Swift sales volume in Maruti's home market.
Both engines will be matched to a manual transmission for domestic consumption.
"Engineering the car from scratch for the full world market would add to our cost in the Indian version," Maruti international and export marketing executive Rajesh Singh told the Carsales Network.
The vehicle is not yet on the radar for Suzuki Australia, said local boss, Tak Hayasaki.
"The Peoplemover segment has been a flat market in Australia but there could be some possibility for us [to add the R3]. I really haven't even considered the car for our market yet. But we don't normally say 'no thank you' to new product if we think we can sell the car."
Hayasaki stated that after price the first consideration would be the availability of the car in the correct specification (ie: automatic transmission) and with an appropriate engine package. Currently Maruti-Suzuki does not produce automatic transmissions in India. Like systems such as airbags and stability control modules, the technology is imported.
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at the carsales mobile site
discount new cars » Get the best price on a new Suzuki
The first Suzuki designed, styled and engineered in India could be on international roads, including Australia within three years.
Displayed in concept form at the 2010 Delhi autoshow last January, the R3 is a three-row, five-door MPV that will go on sale in India in early 2012. To be available in both petrol and turbodiesel versions, it is expected to quickly become one of Maruti-Suzuki's top-selling domestic models.
Maruti currently builds a range of Suzuki-designed and engineered products at its two plants near Delhi. This year the company will build more than one million cars including all Australian market Altos. It dominates the Indian domestic marketplace with nearly 50 per cent share.
The R3 will be Maruti's first ground-up car. Though engineered primarily for India and other developing markets (both left and right-hand drive), Maruti sources say the vehicle could be upgraded to suit developed markets such as Australia and Europe "within a year or so" of its on sale date in India.
Re-engineering would need to include the incorporation of full safety equipment and driver aids such as curtain airbags and stability control. The initial tranche of development on the car is largely completed without the necessary work to comply the car for high-spec markets.
Maruti will not market the car under the R3 badge. The company's sales and marketing execs say, however, that the official name has yet to be decided.
The vehicle will be powered by the choice of a four-cylinder 1.2-litre variant of the K Series petrol triple that currently powers the Alto. The most popular version in India, however, will use the same 55kW/190Nm 1.3-litre DDiS turbodiesel engine that dominates Swift sales volume in Maruti's home market.
Both engines will be matched to a manual transmission for domestic consumption.
"Engineering the car from scratch for the full world market would add to our cost in the Indian version," Maruti international and export marketing executive Rajesh Singh told the Carsales Network.
The vehicle is not yet on the radar for Suzuki Australia, said local boss, Tak Hayasaki.
"The Peoplemover segment has been a flat market in Australia but there could be some possibility for us [to add the R3]. I really haven't even considered the car for our market yet. But we don't normally say 'no thank you' to new product if we think we can sell the car."
Hayasaki stated that after price the first consideration would be the availability of the car in the correct specification (ie: automatic transmission) and with an appropriate engine package. Currently Maruti-Suzuki does not produce automatic transmissions in India. Like systems such as airbags and stability control modules, the technology is imported.
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at the carsales mobile site
Mercedes-Benz B-Class gains V8 firepower
Mischievous Merc trainees create the ultimate one-off B-Class dubbed B55
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We all know the Mercedes-Benz B-Class as a relatively tame, frugal hatchback, but a dramatic transformation by a group of Merc trainees has yielded this radical one-off -- a V8-powered, rear-wheel-drive road rocket that, at least on paper, all but matches a C63 AMG.
The wholesale makeover was car games ried out by 12 second- and third-year trainees specialising in production mechanics and 'automotive mechatronics'. Their brief was to carry out the conversion in such a way that the B55 would still be suited to day-to-day driving and not look dramatically different from the stocker.
The 'victim' was a B200 CDI that been delegated to the training workshop for learning purposes. The powerplant it was to receive was Merc's recently superseded 5.5-litre V8, which cranks out 285kW and 530Nm.
The V8 thumper and its original engine mounts were transplanted along with a seven-speed automatic transmission and engine control unit -- but reprogramming the latter for its new application apparently provided major headaches.
The exhaust system -- a twin-pipe system that protrudes from just below the centre of the rear bumper -- is a combination of various replacement parts, and it allegedly emits a beefy burble far removed from the weedy note of the ejected diesel motor.
More mixing-and-matching was required in the drivetrain as the rear axle comes from an older W210 series E-Class and is housed within a custom-made subframe. Elegantly concealed within the sandwich floor, the propshaft of the E-class fit into the B-Class with no further modifications.
The team also struck gold in the replacement parts catalogue for the braking system, this time in the C32 AMG listing. Perforated and internally ventilated discs (345mm at the front and 300mm at the rear) were slotted in, boosting stopping power to offset the V8's grunt.
The brutal B rides on five-spoke 18-inch AMG sports wheels shod with 235/40 ZR 18 rubber at the front and 255/35 ZR 18 at the rear, providing a much larger footprint than the skinny hoops worn by the donor B200 CDI. The coil-over suspension was provided by K&W.
Other mods include a leather/Alcantara-trimmed interior and custom white paint job with dark-painted radiator louvres and smoked headlamp lenses.
With a kerb weight of 1620kg (around 180kg more than the donor car), its makers estimate the B55 should be able to knock off the 0-100km/h dash in well under six seconds.
prestige new cars » Get the best price on a new Mercedes-Benz
We all know the Mercedes-Benz B-Class as a relatively tame, frugal hatchback, but a dramatic transformation by a group of Merc trainees has yielded this radical one-off -- a V8-powered, rear-wheel-drive road rocket that, at least on paper, all but matches a C63 AMG.
The wholesale makeover was car games ried out by 12 second- and third-year trainees specialising in production mechanics and 'automotive mechatronics'. Their brief was to carry out the conversion in such a way that the B55 would still be suited to day-to-day driving and not look dramatically different from the stocker.
The 'victim' was a B200 CDI that been delegated to the training workshop for learning purposes. The powerplant it was to receive was Merc's recently superseded 5.5-litre V8, which cranks out 285kW and 530Nm.
The V8 thumper and its original engine mounts were transplanted along with a seven-speed automatic transmission and engine control unit -- but reprogramming the latter for its new application apparently provided major headaches.
The exhaust system -- a twin-pipe system that protrudes from just below the centre of the rear bumper -- is a combination of various replacement parts, and it allegedly emits a beefy burble far removed from the weedy note of the ejected diesel motor.
More mixing-and-matching was required in the drivetrain as the rear axle comes from an older W210 series E-Class and is housed within a custom-made subframe. Elegantly concealed within the sandwich floor, the propshaft of the E-class fit into the B-Class with no further modifications.
The team also struck gold in the replacement parts catalogue for the braking system, this time in the C32 AMG listing. Perforated and internally ventilated discs (345mm at the front and 300mm at the rear) were slotted in, boosting stopping power to offset the V8's grunt.
The brutal B rides on five-spoke 18-inch AMG sports wheels shod with 235/40 ZR 18 rubber at the front and 255/35 ZR 18 at the rear, providing a much larger footprint than the skinny hoops worn by the donor B200 CDI. The coil-over suspension was provided by K&W.
Other mods include a leather/Alcantara-trimmed interior and custom white paint job with dark-painted radiator louvres and smoked headlamp lenses.
With a kerb weight of 1620kg (around 180kg more than the donor car), its makers estimate the B55 should be able to knock off the 0-100km/h dash in well under six seconds.
Diesel Territory busted
We've got the good oil on Ford's new Territory, this time sans cammo
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Only weeks after Ford's computer generated image hit the net an eagle-eyed Carsales Network reader has spotted Ford's new diesel-powered Territory out in the open.
Parked in a shopping centre car park in Inverloch, the revised 2011 Ford Territory is seen without camouflage showing a kinetic influenced front end housing, you guessed it, an intercooler for the Blue Oval's new turbodiesel powerplant.
According to our sleuthy snapper, the SUV is a Territory TS AWD Diesel and appears to be all but ready to hit the road. The tailgate badging had black tape over what is assumed to be the diesel badge which was adhered beneath the 'Territory' lettering.
Due in showrooms within the first half of this year, the remodelled Territory sports a new bonnet, front guards, bumper, headlamps and taillamps. Otherwise the body is mostly unchanged.
Inside too, changes are said to mimic the interior found in FG series Falcons though unfortunately for our snapper, the dash and console were covered.
But the big change comes under the bonnet. The Territory finally lands a much-needed turbodiesel engine, bringing with it fuel economy gains the likes of which Ford's 4.0-litre six-cylinder petrol could not hope to achieve.
The engine is a JLR-sourced 2.7-litre V6 as-fitted to the Land Rover Discovery 4. In that car, the unit produces 140kW and 440Nm; figures certain to ensure ample performance (the Disco managing the 0-100km/h jaunt in 12.7 seconds).
In Discovery the six-cylinder turbodiesel utilises a 24-valve arrangement with high-pressure common-rail fuel supply, direct injection and variable nozzle turbocharger with intercooler. At this point there is no word on just how much of this technology Ford has altered.
Fuel economy figures are estimated to run somewhere in the vicinity of 10.0L/100km combined with highway mileage dropping to mid 8s.
Pricing and full specifications will be announced closer to the launch.
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at the carsales mobile site
discount new cars » Get the best price on a new Ford
Only weeks after Ford's computer generated image hit the net an eagle-eyed Carsales Network reader has spotted Ford's new diesel-powered Territory out in the open.
Parked in a shopping centre car park in Inverloch, the revised 2011 Ford Territory is seen without camouflage showing a kinetic influenced front end housing, you guessed it, an intercooler for the Blue Oval's new turbodiesel powerplant.
According to our sleuthy snapper, the SUV is a Territory TS AWD Diesel and appears to be all but ready to hit the road. The tailgate badging had black tape over what is assumed to be the diesel badge which was adhered beneath the 'Territory' lettering.
Due in showrooms within the first half of this year, the remodelled Territory sports a new bonnet, front guards, bumper, headlamps and taillamps. Otherwise the body is mostly unchanged.
Inside too, changes are said to mimic the interior found in FG series Falcons though unfortunately for our snapper, the dash and console were covered.
But the big change comes under the bonnet. The Territory finally lands a much-needed turbodiesel engine, bringing with it fuel economy gains the likes of which Ford's 4.0-litre six-cylinder petrol could not hope to achieve.
The engine is a JLR-sourced 2.7-litre V6 as-fitted to the Land Rover Discovery 4. In that car, the unit produces 140kW and 440Nm; figures certain to ensure ample performance (the Disco managing the 0-100km/h jaunt in 12.7 seconds).
In Discovery the six-cylinder turbodiesel utilises a 24-valve arrangement with high-pressure common-rail fuel supply, direct injection and variable nozzle turbocharger with intercooler. At this point there is no word on just how much of this technology Ford has altered.
Fuel economy figures are estimated to run somewhere in the vicinity of 10.0L/100km combined with highway mileage dropping to mid 8s.
Pricing and full specifications will be announced closer to the launch.
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at the carsales mobile site
Volvo plots XC30 baby SUV
Compact crossover a key part of new company boss Stefan Jacoby's product proliferation plans
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Volvo is developing an entry-level XC30 crossover to slot into its line-up below the XC90 and XC60 (pictured), according to UK's Autocar magazine.
The new model addition is reportedly part of a product diversification plan laid out by recently installed company boss Stefan Jacoby, and it will be pitched primarily at the European market.
Autocar suggests the new model may also be built in China, as Volvo is now under the ownership of Geely.
The British publication reports the XC30 will launch in 2013, taking the fight to the likes of the BMW X1 and Audi Q3. Autocar also lists among its potential rivals a new baby off-roader being developed by Mercedes-Benz (which may be badged GLC).
There will be economies of scale at work, as the junior Volvo SUV will be based on an all-wheel-drive version of the P1 platform that underpins the current C30 hatchback.
The XC30 will target a more youthful audience than its existing demographic and company execs are reportedly hopeful it will replicate the profitability of the XC60, Volvo's number one seller both globally and in Australia.
The vehicle's styling is tipped to be "in the mould of the XC60, but with added visual dynamism and a class-leading interior". It will measure a compact 4350mm in length, meaning it will be around 280mm shorter than the XC60.
According to Autocar, there will be a standard-wheelbase model for the Euro market, but it may be supplemented by a stretched version for China and potentially the US. Volkswagen does likewise with the Tiguan, which is lengthened for the Chinese market.
At face value, the addition of another crossover model makes a lot of sense for Volvo. Of the 4332 vehicles it shifted in Australia until the end of November last year, 2910 sales were accounted for by the XC60, XC70 and XC90.
Given the burgeoning volumes generated by the compact SUV segment (101,480 Australian sales until the end of November last year), the XC30 will provide a much-needed boost for Volvo.
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at the carsales mobile site
discount new cars » Get the best price on a new Volvo
Volvo is developing an entry-level XC30 crossover to slot into its line-up below the XC90 and XC60 (pictured), according to UK's Autocar magazine.
The new model addition is reportedly part of a product diversification plan laid out by recently installed company boss Stefan Jacoby, and it will be pitched primarily at the European market.
Autocar suggests the new model may also be built in China, as Volvo is now under the ownership of Geely.
The British publication reports the XC30 will launch in 2013, taking the fight to the likes of the BMW X1 and Audi Q3. Autocar also lists among its potential rivals a new baby off-roader being developed by Mercedes-Benz (which may be badged GLC).
There will be economies of scale at work, as the junior Volvo SUV will be based on an all-wheel-drive version of the P1 platform that underpins the current C30 hatchback.
The XC30 will target a more youthful audience than its existing demographic and company execs are reportedly hopeful it will replicate the profitability of the XC60, Volvo's number one seller both globally and in Australia.
The vehicle's styling is tipped to be "in the mould of the XC60, but with added visual dynamism and a class-leading interior". It will measure a compact 4350mm in length, meaning it will be around 280mm shorter than the XC60.
According to Autocar, there will be a standard-wheelbase model for the Euro market, but it may be supplemented by a stretched version for China and potentially the US. Volkswagen does likewise with the Tiguan, which is lengthened for the Chinese market.
At face value, the addition of another crossover model makes a lot of sense for Volvo. Of the 4332 vehicles it shifted in Australia until the end of November last year, 2910 sales were accounted for by the XC60, XC70 and XC90.
Given the burgeoning volumes generated by the compact SUV segment (101,480 Australian sales until the end of November last year), the XC30 will provide a much-needed boost for Volvo.
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at the carsales mobile site
Thứ Sáu, 23 tháng 3, 2012
Ford Focus Electric unveiled
Focus sharpens on LEAF, i-MiEV as Ford's new all-electric model brings quicker charge times and improved range to EV market
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Ford has today unveiled its new all-electric Focus. Following our news article last week, we can reveal that the new variant utilises a 23kWh liquid cooled lithium-ion battery pack to achieve a range of up to 160 kilometres. The battery pack was developed in conjunction with LG Chem and uses heated and cooled liquid to extend battery life. According to Ford, thermal management of lithium-ion batteries is critical to the long term success of EVs, and helps improve charge times.
Differentiating itself from most comers to the electric market, Focus Electric boasts a 3-4 hour recharge time when connected to a 240v domestic outlet. That time is some 2-4 hours better than current market offerings.
Focus Electric is charged via a fender-mounted port surrounded by an illuminated light ring. Lit in quadrants, the ring acknowledges a proper charging connection and when flashing represents charging is in progress. A solid lit ring signifies charge completion. If something is awry, the entire ring flashes intermittently.
Achieving a top speed of 135km/h Focus Electric features a version of Ford's MyTouch system with an interface especially designed for the electric vehicle. Among other functions, the interface includes a screen that displays an increasing number of butterflies as the car games is driven more efficiently, much like the 'tree' display on Nissan's LEAF.
Further, the vehicle's control system can also be accessed remotely via the owner's smart phone through a system Ford calls MyFord Mobile. The application allows owners to set charging times to make the most of off-peak power rates and remotely unlock the doors, to name a few.
The Ford Focus Electric will be available in the US from November this year with pricing and full specifications to be announced closer to that time. Local availability is yet to be confirmed.
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at the carsales mobile site
discount new cars » Get the best price on a new Ford
Ford has today unveiled its new all-electric Focus. Following our news article last week, we can reveal that the new variant utilises a 23kWh liquid cooled lithium-ion battery pack to achieve a range of up to 160 kilometres. The battery pack was developed in conjunction with LG Chem and uses heated and cooled liquid to extend battery life. According to Ford, thermal management of lithium-ion batteries is critical to the long term success of EVs, and helps improve charge times.
Differentiating itself from most comers to the electric market, Focus Electric boasts a 3-4 hour recharge time when connected to a 240v domestic outlet. That time is some 2-4 hours better than current market offerings.
Focus Electric is charged via a fender-mounted port surrounded by an illuminated light ring. Lit in quadrants, the ring acknowledges a proper charging connection and when flashing represents charging is in progress. A solid lit ring signifies charge completion. If something is awry, the entire ring flashes intermittently.
Achieving a top speed of 135km/h Focus Electric features a version of Ford's MyTouch system with an interface especially designed for the electric vehicle. Among other functions, the interface includes a screen that displays an increasing number of butterflies as the car games is driven more efficiently, much like the 'tree' display on Nissan's LEAF.
Further, the vehicle's control system can also be accessed remotely via the owner's smart phone through a system Ford calls MyFord Mobile. The application allows owners to set charging times to make the most of off-peak power rates and remotely unlock the doors, to name a few.
The Ford Focus Electric will be available in the US from November this year with pricing and full specifications to be announced closer to that time. Local availability is yet to be confirmed.
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at the carsales mobile site
Leaked images: Mercedes C-Class coupe
Merc's stylish new coupe caught with its pants down... or is it all part of a calculated ploy?
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The public unveiling of Mercedes-Benz's new C-Class coupe is still two months away (it's due to debut at March's Geneva motor show), but these images of the suave two-door have found their way -- apparently prematurely -- onto the internet.
The coupe will take its bows at Geneva alongside the updated C-Class sedan and wagon, which we first showed you in prototype form last March.
Effectively the replacement for the defunct CLK that was discontinued almost 12 months ago, the C-Class coupe will slot in below the existing E-Class coupe.
With the imminent arrival of the C-Class coupe the end of the road is nigh for the CLC, which is now distinctly long in the tooth.
The brochure images of the new C-Class coupe reveal an elegantly proportioned package with a fastback-esque roofline. Although it borrows much of its design language from its sedan sibling, the coupe has a far more wedge-like stance
Our preliminary impression is that the two-door C-Class is a more attractive proposition than the E-Class coupe and, at face value, it should give the Audi A5 and BMW 3 Series coupe a few headaches.
As per the updated C-Class sedan range, its cabin features a new instrument binnacle as used in the larger E-class, and there's also a redesigned steering wheel, updated switchgear and better quality trim than in the outgoing C.
There are no specs or tech details available as yet, but the C-Class coupe is likely to feature identical powertrains to the sedan range, including a new 3.5-litre V6 direct-injection petrol unit with 225kW and 370Nm. A seven-speed automatic transmission will be standard across the line-up.
More exciting still is the prospect of a C63 AMG variant, which would square up against the BMW M3 and Audi RS5. Also an eventual possibility is a hardcore Black Series variant.
The list of available features in the C-Class coupe is likely to include Attention Assist, radar-controlled Distronic Plus cruise control and automatic Pre-Safe brakes.
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The public unveiling of Mercedes-Benz's new C-Class coupe is still two months away (it's due to debut at March's Geneva motor show), but these images of the suave two-door have found their way -- apparently prematurely -- onto the internet.
The coupe will take its bows at Geneva alongside the updated C-Class sedan and wagon, which we first showed you in prototype form last March.
Effectively the replacement for the defunct CLK that was discontinued almost 12 months ago, the C-Class coupe will slot in below the existing E-Class coupe.
With the imminent arrival of the C-Class coupe the end of the road is nigh for the CLC, which is now distinctly long in the tooth.
The brochure images of the new C-Class coupe reveal an elegantly proportioned package with a fastback-esque roofline. Although it borrows much of its design language from its sedan sibling, the coupe has a far more wedge-like stance
Our preliminary impression is that the two-door C-Class is a more attractive proposition than the E-Class coupe and, at face value, it should give the Audi A5 and BMW 3 Series coupe a few headaches.
As per the updated C-Class sedan range, its cabin features a new instrument binnacle as used in the larger E-class, and there's also a redesigned steering wheel, updated switchgear and better quality trim than in the outgoing C.
There are no specs or tech details available as yet, but the C-Class coupe is likely to feature identical powertrains to the sedan range, including a new 3.5-litre V6 direct-injection petrol unit with 225kW and 370Nm. A seven-speed automatic transmission will be standard across the line-up.
More exciting still is the prospect of a C63 AMG variant, which would square up against the BMW M3 and Audi RS5. Also an eventual possibility is a hardcore Black Series variant.
The list of available features in the C-Class coupe is likely to include Attention Assist, radar-controlled Distronic Plus cruise control and automatic Pre-Safe brakes.
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site...
Fastest ever Ferrari lands in Oz
Ferrari 599 GTO brings the ultimate in performance and exclusivity Down Under
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The fastest ever road car yet produced by Italy's legendary supercar company has arrived in Australia. The Ferrari 599 GTO lands this month in extremely limited numbers with just ten vehicles allocated to the Australian and New Zealand markets.
"The Ferrari 599 GTO represents the pinnacle of Ferrari road cars in every area," says Ferrari Australia's General Manager, Kevin Wall.
"The bald performance figures, amazing although they are, do not do justice to the remarkable breadth of abilities that it offers. These range from being able to provide a true racing car driving experience on the track, through being the ultimate road going ultra supercar to having the comfort and luggage space that quite simply would not be expected in a car of this performance level.
"In short, only Ferrari could provide a car with the breadth and depth of ability with which the 599 GTO has been endowed, using Formula One technology and design that has then been honed to perfection in the unique FXX programme. The 599 GTO is the new definition of the ultimate road car and the ten Australian owners are able to look for to a truly unique driving experience at every level."
Recalling many design cues from the 599XX, the 599 GTO is capable of sprinting from rest to 100km/h in just 3.35 seconds. The exclusive machine having also earned the illustrious honour of lapping Ferrari's famed Fiorano test track faster than any other road going Ferrari in history, an impressive 1'24". Top speed is claimed to be in excess of 335km/h.
An innovative and thoroughly communicative chassis is said to push the car's electronic controls to the very limit. The driver-car interface sees Ferrari's Virtual Race Engineer (VRE) system provide instantaneous information on the vehicle's performance.
Additionally, the 599 GTO boasts new aerodynamic innovations, such as the wheel doughnuts which increase aerodynamic efficiency as well as improve brake cooling, and a different tyre set-up with wider front tyres for greater roadholding.
Braking comes compliments of Ferrari's latest, second-generation carbon-ceramic brakes, which are lighter and offer better performance.
The driver-car interface is also new with the adoption of the Virtual Race Engineer (VRE), which provides the driver with instantaneous information on performance.
Nearing a seven figure price tag the Ferrari 599 GTO would seem to be out of the reach of most. But even at this end of the fiduciary spectrum, Ferrari Australia tells us all ten are accounted for.
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at the carsales mobile site
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The fastest ever road car yet produced by Italy's legendary supercar company has arrived in Australia. The Ferrari 599 GTO lands this month in extremely limited numbers with just ten vehicles allocated to the Australian and New Zealand markets.
"The Ferrari 599 GTO represents the pinnacle of Ferrari road cars in every area," says Ferrari Australia's General Manager, Kevin Wall.
"The bald performance figures, amazing although they are, do not do justice to the remarkable breadth of abilities that it offers. These range from being able to provide a true racing car driving experience on the track, through being the ultimate road going ultra supercar to having the comfort and luggage space that quite simply would not be expected in a car of this performance level.
"In short, only Ferrari could provide a car with the breadth and depth of ability with which the 599 GTO has been endowed, using Formula One technology and design that has then been honed to perfection in the unique FXX programme. The 599 GTO is the new definition of the ultimate road car and the ten Australian owners are able to look for to a truly unique driving experience at every level."
Recalling many design cues from the 599XX, the 599 GTO is capable of sprinting from rest to 100km/h in just 3.35 seconds. The exclusive machine having also earned the illustrious honour of lapping Ferrari's famed Fiorano test track faster than any other road going Ferrari in history, an impressive 1'24". Top speed is claimed to be in excess of 335km/h.
An innovative and thoroughly communicative chassis is said to push the car's electronic controls to the very limit. The driver-car interface sees Ferrari's Virtual Race Engineer (VRE) system provide instantaneous information on the vehicle's performance.
Additionally, the 599 GTO boasts new aerodynamic innovations, such as the wheel doughnuts which increase aerodynamic efficiency as well as improve brake cooling, and a different tyre set-up with wider front tyres for greater roadholding.
Braking comes compliments of Ferrari's latest, second-generation carbon-ceramic brakes, which are lighter and offer better performance.
The driver-car interface is also new with the adoption of the Virtual Race Engineer (VRE), which provides the driver with instantaneous information on performance.
Nearing a seven figure price tag the Ferrari 599 GTO would seem to be out of the reach of most. But even at this end of the fiduciary spectrum, Ferrari Australia tells us all ten are accounted for.
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at the carsales mobile site
Thứ Năm, 22 tháng 3, 2012
VFACTS for January: Queensland floods dampen new-car demand
Sales slackened slightly last month, as Queenslanders turned their attention to disaster recovery
New-car sales fell back by 1.7 per cent last month, in the aftermath of massive floods in South East Queensland.
Compared with the figure for the same month last year, sales of 73,584 in January represented a 1280 shortfall. Yet the peak body for the industry, the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries, has greeted the result with enthusiasm.
FCAI Chief Executive Andrew McKellar described the January result as "robust" and "a good start to 2011".
"It is encouraging to see that private buyers remained confident throughout January with sales to those customers up 13.6 per cent while business purchases declined," he said.
There was no hiding the fact that Queenslanders had a lot on the plate last month. If not for the nearly 2000-unit shortfall in the northern state, January would have been a stronger month nationally than the same month a year earlier. According to the FCAI sales in Queensland were 12.8 per cent lower.
"Obviously new vehicle sales in Queensland have taken a hit as people concentrate on the flood recovery effort," McKellar said.
"We can expect sales in Queensland to be slower in the short-term but will pick up in the months ahead as people begin to look for replacement vehicles."
Times may have been bleak in Queensland last month, but they would have been breaking out the champers at Toyota's head office. For the third consecutive month Corolla snared top spot in the country -- outselling Holden's 15-year champion, the Commodore. For the full year of 2010, Commodore finished 4324 units (45,956) ahead of Corolla (41,632). Last month the small Toyota posted a winning margin of 1400 units, selling 4045 cars versus 2645 of the Commodore.
A margin like that would hand Corolla sales leadership for the full year around July or August, assuming the Commodore doesn't bounce back.
"We supported Corolla strongly with advertising and marketing offers, just as our competitors did with their leading cars," Toyota Australia's senior executive director sales and marketing, David Buttner, was quoted as saying.
"Consumers have responded in such large numbers because Corolla is the right package for Australians of all ages -- stylish, affordable, fuel-efficient and reliable."
It's an indication that Toyota is set for another strong year in 2011, just like the last one... and the one before that... and...
Of the 73,584 vehicles sold in January, 43,539 were passenger cars, 17,032 were SUVs and 11,720 were light commercial vehicles. Passenger cars were just 41 units down on January 2010 and SUVs were actually up 132 units -- although not a single SUV of any kind sold better than four digits. The Prado came closest, selling 988 for the month. But the real damage to the whole market was done in light commercial vehicles: down 1089 sales for the month. Heavy commercials also dropped over 300 units for the month, contributing to the 1280-unit slump.
The top ten car companies as of the end of January are: Toyota (14,817), Holden (8385), Mazda (7200), Ford (6413), Hyundai (6410), Nissan (4876), Mitsubishi (4537), Subaru (3531), Volkswagen (2408) and Honda (2227). Holden, Ford and Honda all dropped back against their January 2010 performances. In Ford's case, not only was it overtaken by Mazda for the month, it sold just three cars more than Hyundai. Honda is in danger of dropping out of the top ten, with Suzuki a little over a hundred units behind for the month -- and Suzuki is not a brand that holds the door open for others. January is a little early in the year to be prognosticating though, with fleet buyers and sales people still holidaying.
The top ten-selling cars for the month were: Toyota Corolla (4045), Mazda3 (3605), Holden Commodore (2645), Toyota Hilux (2491), Hyundai Getz (2167), Holden Cruze (2060), Nissan Navara (1804), Toyota Yaris (1793), Subaru Impreza (1765), Hyundai i30 (1675). Ford's Falcon -- usually a top five contender -- didn't appear among the top ten at all in January, selling just 1157 for the month, fewer than half the number it sold in January 2010. If the Falcon had sold the same numbers as it did this time last year, Ford wouldn't have fallen out of third place among the top ten car companies.
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site...
New-car sales fell back by 1.7 per cent last month, in the aftermath of massive floods in South East Queensland.
Compared with the figure for the same month last year, sales of 73,584 in January represented a 1280 shortfall. Yet the peak body for the industry, the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries, has greeted the result with enthusiasm.
FCAI Chief Executive Andrew McKellar described the January result as "robust" and "a good start to 2011".
"It is encouraging to see that private buyers remained confident throughout January with sales to those customers up 13.6 per cent while business purchases declined," he said.
There was no hiding the fact that Queenslanders had a lot on the plate last month. If not for the nearly 2000-unit shortfall in the northern state, January would have been a stronger month nationally than the same month a year earlier. According to the FCAI sales in Queensland were 12.8 per cent lower.
"Obviously new vehicle sales in Queensland have taken a hit as people concentrate on the flood recovery effort," McKellar said.
"We can expect sales in Queensland to be slower in the short-term but will pick up in the months ahead as people begin to look for replacement vehicles."
Times may have been bleak in Queensland last month, but they would have been breaking out the champers at Toyota's head office. For the third consecutive month Corolla snared top spot in the country -- outselling Holden's 15-year champion, the Commodore. For the full year of 2010, Commodore finished 4324 units (45,956) ahead of Corolla (41,632). Last month the small Toyota posted a winning margin of 1400 units, selling 4045 cars versus 2645 of the Commodore.
A margin like that would hand Corolla sales leadership for the full year around July or August, assuming the Commodore doesn't bounce back.
"We supported Corolla strongly with advertising and marketing offers, just as our competitors did with their leading cars," Toyota Australia's senior executive director sales and marketing, David Buttner, was quoted as saying.
"Consumers have responded in such large numbers because Corolla is the right package for Australians of all ages -- stylish, affordable, fuel-efficient and reliable."
It's an indication that Toyota is set for another strong year in 2011, just like the last one... and the one before that... and...
Of the 73,584 vehicles sold in January, 43,539 were passenger cars, 17,032 were SUVs and 11,720 were light commercial vehicles. Passenger cars were just 41 units down on January 2010 and SUVs were actually up 132 units -- although not a single SUV of any kind sold better than four digits. The Prado came closest, selling 988 for the month. But the real damage to the whole market was done in light commercial vehicles: down 1089 sales for the month. Heavy commercials also dropped over 300 units for the month, contributing to the 1280-unit slump.
The top ten car companies as of the end of January are: Toyota (14,817), Holden (8385), Mazda (7200), Ford (6413), Hyundai (6410), Nissan (4876), Mitsubishi (4537), Subaru (3531), Volkswagen (2408) and Honda (2227). Holden, Ford and Honda all dropped back against their January 2010 performances. In Ford's case, not only was it overtaken by Mazda for the month, it sold just three cars more than Hyundai. Honda is in danger of dropping out of the top ten, with Suzuki a little over a hundred units behind for the month -- and Suzuki is not a brand that holds the door open for others. January is a little early in the year to be prognosticating though, with fleet buyers and sales people still holidaying.
The top ten-selling cars for the month were: Toyota Corolla (4045), Mazda3 (3605), Holden Commodore (2645), Toyota Hilux (2491), Hyundai Getz (2167), Holden Cruze (2060), Nissan Navara (1804), Toyota Yaris (1793), Subaru Impreza (1765), Hyundai i30 (1675). Ford's Falcon -- usually a top five contender -- didn't appear among the top ten at all in January, selling just 1157 for the month, fewer than half the number it sold in January 2010. If the Falcon had sold the same numbers as it did this time last year, Ford wouldn't have fallen out of third place among the top ten car companies.
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Porsche back in black, again
Boxster S Porsche's second model to get Black treatment in as many weeks
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Hot on the heels of the release of the Porsche 911 Black Edition comes news from Stuttgart that the drop top Boxster S will receive similar treatment.
Adding more style and substance at no additional cost, the Black Edition adds 7kW/10Nm to Boxster S' 3.4-litre engine output, taking the total to 235kW/370Nm. These figures see the open-top model shave one-tenth of a second off its 0-100km/h sprint for a new time of 5.2 seconds with the standard six-speed manual gearbox, or 5.1 seconds when optioned with Porsche's seven-speed PDK transmission.
Equipment levels are also bolstered with 19-inch black Boxster Spyder alloys, smooth leather finish with Sport Design steering wheel, Bi-Xenon headlamps with dynamic cornering function and auto-dimming mirrors.
Stylistically, Boxster S Black Edition adds an array of all-black design touches including black paintwork and features finished in black, including hood, air intakes, tailpipes, roll-over bars, instrument panel, and gear selector surround.
The special edition is designated by a boot lid-mounted badge, "Black Edition" lettering on the stainless steel sill panels, emobossed insignia on the fabric roof and a badge on the glovebox lid.
Limited to 987 examples (the convertible Porsche's model designation), deliveries of the Porsche Boxster S Black Edition will commence in April.
2011 Porsche Boxster S Black Edition pricing:
- Boxster S Black Edition $132,400 (manual)
- Boxster S Black Edition $137,700 (PDK)
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Hot on the heels of the release of the Porsche 911 Black Edition comes news from Stuttgart that the drop top Boxster S will receive similar treatment.
Adding more style and substance at no additional cost, the Black Edition adds 7kW/10Nm to Boxster S' 3.4-litre engine output, taking the total to 235kW/370Nm. These figures see the open-top model shave one-tenth of a second off its 0-100km/h sprint for a new time of 5.2 seconds with the standard six-speed manual gearbox, or 5.1 seconds when optioned with Porsche's seven-speed PDK transmission.
Equipment levels are also bolstered with 19-inch black Boxster Spyder alloys, smooth leather finish with Sport Design steering wheel, Bi-Xenon headlamps with dynamic cornering function and auto-dimming mirrors.
Stylistically, Boxster S Black Edition adds an array of all-black design touches including black paintwork and features finished in black, including hood, air intakes, tailpipes, roll-over bars, instrument panel, and gear selector surround.
The special edition is designated by a boot lid-mounted badge, "Black Edition" lettering on the stainless steel sill panels, emobossed insignia on the fabric roof and a badge on the glovebox lid.
Limited to 987 examples (the convertible Porsche's model designation), deliveries of the Porsche Boxster S Black Edition will commence in April.
2011 Porsche Boxster S Black Edition pricing:
- Boxster S Black Edition $132,400 (manual)
- Boxster S Black Edition $137,700 (PDK)
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at the carsales mobile site
Thứ Bảy, 17 tháng 3, 2012
B-Class bends in a new direction
Big changes in store for the next generation Mercedes B-Class as it approaches its European launch in the second half of the year
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When Mercedes-Benz introduces its next-generation B-Class in Europe some time later this year it will be an animal quite different to the current model.
With a lower profile allowed by the scrapping of the safety-oriented sandwich floor structure, the new B-Class is said to be targeted at a younger demographic.
The Carparazzi spy photos of the next B-class undergoing winter testing show it will present a sleeker shape consistent with its aspirations to be a Volkswagen Golf competitor.
Rumour has it the B-Class will spawn a number of variants including a sedan and a small SUV. A roadster version is also a possibility, indicating a much bigger role for the front-drive model in the lower-rung Benz lineup.
While the spy photos of the hatchback variant show what appears to be a noticeably lower-set B-Class, the second-rung Benz still has a mini MPV look about it with its high bonnet and slightly vertical orientation.
The spy shots show a car games with minimal attempts at disguise, although Benz has slapped a bit of cladding on the rear end to disguise the shape of the tail lights, rear window and bumper.
The Golf-like C-Pillar only looks that way: In reality it will contain side glass tapering down to give a slightly arched look consistent with larger Benz models. The final product should therefore have less of a slab-sided look. And are those kicked-up crease lines in the rear doors indicative of the real thing?
The bold Benz grille slats could be the real McCoy, or just a quick patch up, but at least they clearly reveal the car’s identity.
Interestingly, Carparazzi says the new front-drive Mercedes will mostly use Renault engines in 1.2, 1.4 and 1.8-litre petrol-fired capacities as well as a 1.6-litre diesel.
The next B-Class is also expected to bring stop/start technology on both manual and auto versions.
Top of the range variants will use a Benz 2.2-litre diesel, says Carparazzi, while other eco-friendly models will follow – including plug-in hybrid (E-Cell Plus), all-electric (E-Cell) and fuel cell (F-Cell) versions.
Transmissions will be either a manual or a dual-clutch automated manual, both with six speeds. The CVT transmission is reportedly due for the chop.
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at the carsales mobile site
prestige new cars » Get the best price on a new Mercedes-Benz
When Mercedes-Benz introduces its next-generation B-Class in Europe some time later this year it will be an animal quite different to the current model.
With a lower profile allowed by the scrapping of the safety-oriented sandwich floor structure, the new B-Class is said to be targeted at a younger demographic.
The Carparazzi spy photos of the next B-class undergoing winter testing show it will present a sleeker shape consistent with its aspirations to be a Volkswagen Golf competitor.
Rumour has it the B-Class will spawn a number of variants including a sedan and a small SUV. A roadster version is also a possibility, indicating a much bigger role for the front-drive model in the lower-rung Benz lineup.
While the spy photos of the hatchback variant show what appears to be a noticeably lower-set B-Class, the second-rung Benz still has a mini MPV look about it with its high bonnet and slightly vertical orientation.
The spy shots show a car games with minimal attempts at disguise, although Benz has slapped a bit of cladding on the rear end to disguise the shape of the tail lights, rear window and bumper.
The Golf-like C-Pillar only looks that way: In reality it will contain side glass tapering down to give a slightly arched look consistent with larger Benz models. The final product should therefore have less of a slab-sided look. And are those kicked-up crease lines in the rear doors indicative of the real thing?
The bold Benz grille slats could be the real McCoy, or just a quick patch up, but at least they clearly reveal the car’s identity.
Interestingly, Carparazzi says the new front-drive Mercedes will mostly use Renault engines in 1.2, 1.4 and 1.8-litre petrol-fired capacities as well as a 1.6-litre diesel.
The next B-Class is also expected to bring stop/start technology on both manual and auto versions.
Top of the range variants will use a Benz 2.2-litre diesel, says Carparazzi, while other eco-friendly models will follow – including plug-in hybrid (E-Cell Plus), all-electric (E-Cell) and fuel cell (F-Cell) versions.
Transmissions will be either a manual or a dual-clutch automated manual, both with six speeds. The CVT transmission is reportedly due for the chop.
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at the carsales mobile site
Benz entry limo beats LCT
Upgraded Mercedes-Benz S-Class range introduces efficient new model that escapes luxury car tax
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An update for the Mercedes-Benz S-Class range adds standard equipment and a introduces a new diesel variant boasting a combined-cycle consumption figure of 7L/100km.
The extra-efficient S 350 -- now badged 'BlueTEC', rather than CDI -- replaces the outgoing version which used 7.7L. The improvement means the entry model S-Class is exempt from the luxury car tax (LCT), which allows a dispensation for luxury vehicles priced over $58K and using 7 litres or less fuel per 100km.
During this week's launch of the updated S-Class range, Mercedes-Benz Australia managing director Horst van Sanden said: "It's fantastic for us to have a vehicle of this size, which matches equivalently-efficient cars.
"It's become a badge of honour for us [luxury car makers] to meet the highest standards of efficiency."
M-B Australia executives admit 'traditional' buyers of the S-Class have not made a connection between diesel and luxury motoring as part of the ownership experience, however he anticipates models like the S 350 BlueTec will encourage a turnaround in buyers' perceptions of diesel luxury cars.
Evidence is a shift in buyer preference for the E-Class which has recently topped 50 per cent of diesel versus petrol purchases.
Mercedes-Benz offers a hybrid version of the S-Class -- the S 400 -- and a 'smaller' entry level diesel model (S 250 CDI) in European markets.
At this stage there is no promise for either models' arrival in Australia due to right-hand-drive only production, however van Sanden said his company "would like to see them here".
Meanwhile Australians are offered the 3.0-litre six-cylinder diesel S 350 BlueTec model, starting at $213,428 (includes GST and LCT if applicable), as the most efficient S-Class. The S 350's engine now produces 190kW/620Nm; up from 173kW/540Nm.
We managed 8.2L/100km over a route including rural and highway miles. Power is on tap and the ample torque moves the S-Class' two-tonne bulk with ease -- brilliant for overtaking duties and polishing off hills.
The S 350 is also impressive in the acceleration stakes and only at idle does it sound like a diesel, having a throaty growl in its upper reaches. The standard-fit seven-speed automatic is responsive if left to its own devices, or the paddle-shift can be used for instantaneous results. The S-Class also has 'switchable' engine/transmission characteristics: our 8.2L result was after most time in 'Sport' mode.
The 2011 update includes blind spot and lane assistance to the standard-fit list rangewide. The lane assistance is unobtrusive and the blind spot system offers visual and audio warning.
Stepping up to the BlueEFFICIENCY petrol version costs $220,650 and includes bigger (19 versus 18-inch) alloys. The petrol 350's combined consumption rating is significantly higher than the BlueTec's at 9L/100km, however M-B Australia claims the model is the most economical petrol-powered luxury car in its segment. Output has been increased for the new year updates; up from 200kW to 225kW, and 350Nm to 370Nm.
At the top end of the scale is the S63, now packing AMG's 5.5-litre biturbo V8. Despite the smaller -- by 747cc -- displacement to the esteemed 6.2-litre V8, the biturbo whips the naturally aspirated version with 400kW and 800Nm.
The 5.5 is also more efficient than the previous V8, using 10.6L/100km. Start/stop is included as standard.
The biturbo V8 is mated to a new seven-speed transmission with wet start-up clutch (a la SL63 and E 63). AMG attributes the engine's efficiency in part to its new Speedshift transmission.
The new engine does not replace the naturally aspirated 6.2-litre V8 used in the '63' models; rather, it adds another option to AMG's engine lineup, which also includes the biturbo V12 available in the S-Class range. See pricing below.
Visit the Carsales Network again for our drive review of the new S 350 BlueTEC and S 63 AMG.
2011 S-Class pricing (MLP inc LCT (where applicable) and GST)
S 350 BlueTEC $213,428
S 350 BlueEFFICIENCY $220,650
S 350 L BlueEFFICIENCY $238,976
S 500 BlueEFFICIENCY $296,975
S 500 L BlueEFFICIENCY $315,300
S 63 AMG $392,900
S 600 L $412,000
S 65 AMG L $499,200
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An update for the Mercedes-Benz S-Class range adds standard equipment and a introduces a new diesel variant boasting a combined-cycle consumption figure of 7L/100km.
The extra-efficient S 350 -- now badged 'BlueTEC', rather than CDI -- replaces the outgoing version which used 7.7L. The improvement means the entry model S-Class is exempt from the luxury car tax (LCT), which allows a dispensation for luxury vehicles priced over $58K and using 7 litres or less fuel per 100km.
During this week's launch of the updated S-Class range, Mercedes-Benz Australia managing director Horst van Sanden said: "It's fantastic for us to have a vehicle of this size, which matches equivalently-efficient cars.
"It's become a badge of honour for us [luxury car makers] to meet the highest standards of efficiency."
M-B Australia executives admit 'traditional' buyers of the S-Class have not made a connection between diesel and luxury motoring as part of the ownership experience, however he anticipates models like the S 350 BlueTec will encourage a turnaround in buyers' perceptions of diesel luxury cars.
Evidence is a shift in buyer preference for the E-Class which has recently topped 50 per cent of diesel versus petrol purchases.
Mercedes-Benz offers a hybrid version of the S-Class -- the S 400 -- and a 'smaller' entry level diesel model (S 250 CDI) in European markets.
At this stage there is no promise for either models' arrival in Australia due to right-hand-drive only production, however van Sanden said his company "would like to see them here".
Meanwhile Australians are offered the 3.0-litre six-cylinder diesel S 350 BlueTec model, starting at $213,428 (includes GST and LCT if applicable), as the most efficient S-Class. The S 350's engine now produces 190kW/620Nm; up from 173kW/540Nm.
We managed 8.2L/100km over a route including rural and highway miles. Power is on tap and the ample torque moves the S-Class' two-tonne bulk with ease -- brilliant for overtaking duties and polishing off hills.
The S 350 is also impressive in the acceleration stakes and only at idle does it sound like a diesel, having a throaty growl in its upper reaches. The standard-fit seven-speed automatic is responsive if left to its own devices, or the paddle-shift can be used for instantaneous results. The S-Class also has 'switchable' engine/transmission characteristics: our 8.2L result was after most time in 'Sport' mode.
The 2011 update includes blind spot and lane assistance to the standard-fit list rangewide. The lane assistance is unobtrusive and the blind spot system offers visual and audio warning.
Stepping up to the BlueEFFICIENCY petrol version costs $220,650 and includes bigger (19 versus 18-inch) alloys. The petrol 350's combined consumption rating is significantly higher than the BlueTec's at 9L/100km, however M-B Australia claims the model is the most economical petrol-powered luxury car in its segment. Output has been increased for the new year updates; up from 200kW to 225kW, and 350Nm to 370Nm.
At the top end of the scale is the S63, now packing AMG's 5.5-litre biturbo V8. Despite the smaller -- by 747cc -- displacement to the esteemed 6.2-litre V8, the biturbo whips the naturally aspirated version with 400kW and 800Nm.
The 5.5 is also more efficient than the previous V8, using 10.6L/100km. Start/stop is included as standard.
The biturbo V8 is mated to a new seven-speed transmission with wet start-up clutch (a la SL63 and E 63). AMG attributes the engine's efficiency in part to its new Speedshift transmission.
The new engine does not replace the naturally aspirated 6.2-litre V8 used in the '63' models; rather, it adds another option to AMG's engine lineup, which also includes the biturbo V12 available in the S-Class range. See pricing below.
Visit the Carsales Network again for our drive review of the new S 350 BlueTEC and S 63 AMG.
2011 S-Class pricing (MLP inc LCT (where applicable) and GST)
S 350 BlueTEC $213,428
S 350 BlueEFFICIENCY $220,650
S 350 L BlueEFFICIENCY $238,976
S 500 BlueEFFICIENCY $296,975
S 500 L BlueEFFICIENCY $315,300
S 63 AMG $392,900
S 600 L $412,000
S 65 AMG L $499,200
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site...
Northway Honda opens in Bundoora
New Dealership established to service Melbourne's Honda clientele in the north east
Honda has welcomed a new dealership into the fold. Northway Honda has been located on Plenty Road, in the rapidly growing suburb of Bundoora to provide full dealer servicing, parts and sales to Honda owners and buyers in the outer north east.
Costing $11 million and requiring two years to complete, the facility is built around an innovative design concept integrating the showroom and workshop, with a lift to raise cars from the ground floor to the 'half-moon' display area on the first floor.
"The design was off the page, delivering a roofline which emulates the spoiler of a car, the interior with a glass ceiling fifty metres wide and a hydraulic lift for cars displayed on the second level of the building," explained Martin Luby, General Manager of the dealership.
"That's nothing compared to the ingenious floor plan incorporating two stories of display space, an eleven bay service centre, spare parts centre and pre-owned cars all located around a central hub lounge -- now that's easy!"
Build to accommodate environmental concerns, the 7700-square metre facility boasts a 70,000-litre water tank, oil recycling and double-glazed glass to reduce energy consumption. Up to 60 new and 50 used cars will be housed on the premises at any one time and service customers can watch TV on plasma screens in the VIP lounge while waiting for their cars. In addition, Northway offers customers free Wi-Fi for their personal needs.
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site...
Honda has welcomed a new dealership into the fold. Northway Honda has been located on Plenty Road, in the rapidly growing suburb of Bundoora to provide full dealer servicing, parts and sales to Honda owners and buyers in the outer north east.
Costing $11 million and requiring two years to complete, the facility is built around an innovative design concept integrating the showroom and workshop, with a lift to raise cars from the ground floor to the 'half-moon' display area on the first floor.
"The design was off the page, delivering a roofline which emulates the spoiler of a car, the interior with a glass ceiling fifty metres wide and a hydraulic lift for cars displayed on the second level of the building," explained Martin Luby, General Manager of the dealership.
"That's nothing compared to the ingenious floor plan incorporating two stories of display space, an eleven bay service centre, spare parts centre and pre-owned cars all located around a central hub lounge -- now that's easy!"
Build to accommodate environmental concerns, the 7700-square metre facility boasts a 70,000-litre water tank, oil recycling and double-glazed glass to reduce energy consumption. Up to 60 new and 50 used cars will be housed on the premises at any one time and service customers can watch TV on plasma screens in the VIP lounge while waiting for their cars. In addition, Northway offers customers free Wi-Fi for their personal needs.
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site...
Thứ Sáu, 16 tháng 3, 2012
Lambo's next big event: LP700-4 Aventador
We get the inside edge on Lamborghini's latest revolution, the LP700-4 Aventador
prestige new cars » Get the best price on a new Lamborghini
Geneva International Motor Show
The Murcielago's welded alloy tube-frame chassis was an old-school life-support system for its monstrous, but dated, 6.5-litre V12. For all its brutal charm, much of its technology was rooted in the past. What Lamborghini needed, its president claimed, was a two-generation leap.
And, technically at least, that's what his engineering team have delivered with the Aventador LP700-4. Clad in a typically aggressive bodyshell, it's based around a breakthrough car games bon-fibre chassis, clings to the road with pushrod suspension, changes gear through a radical seven-speed gearbox and punches it all forward with a brand-spanking new V12 engine.
With 700 horsepower (522kW) and 690Nm of torque, the new motor is seriously oversquare, 6.5-litres, lighter than the old engine, revs hard to 8250rpm and is strong enough to throw the Aventador to 100km/h in just 2.9 seconds. Top speed, Lamborghini officially claims, is 350km/h, though engineers admit to seeing more than that in testing...
While Lamborghini has released details of the Aventador's driveline before, it has been reserved on the supercar's other details. We can now finally reveal that it combines three different carbon-fibre technologies to make its chassis.
It's perhaps the technical breakthrough with the widest-reaching future, given that Audi is keen to poach some of Lambo's carbon prowess, because it gives the Aventador a passenger cell weighing just 147.5kg, but with a torsional stiffness of 35,000Nm per degree -- more than double the Murcielago's number.
This torsional stiffness, coupled with race-inspired pushrod suspension setup and double, forged aluminum wishbones all round, give the Aventador the handling accuracy it needs to cope with the frightening speeds the engine can produce.
Aluminium subframes are bolted to it at both ends to give Lamborghini somewhere to attach the engine, gearbox and suspension parts. But even then, the body-in-white is only 229.5kg.
Somehow, though, by the time Lamborghini added everything else, the Aventador ended up at 1575kg -- or 10 more than the old Murcielago SV and only 90kg lighter than the Murcielago LP650-4. It's better than being heavier, but it's a far cry from the 200kg weight saving that was being talked about only half a year ago.
While Lamborghini is staying mute on the subject, our information is that it switched to plastic panels (even though they give them a fancier, technical name) for cost reasons, and they are considerably heavier than the Murcielago's carbon ones. Still, with a 47.5:52.5 front-to-rear weight distribution in the LP700-4, an Aventador SV is already an enticing prospect...
Lamborghini has built a new, 5400 square metre carbon production facility at Sant'Agata to build and bring together the three different carbon-fibre production methods that come together on the Aventador -- two of which have never been seen anywhere else before.
The first is RTM Lambo; an RTM (Resin Transfer Moulding) system developed by Lamborghini and the University of Washington, of which most of the tub is made. There are a lot of technical and production benefits to it, including high levels of automation, no hand lamination, no autoclave, lighter, carbon-fibre moulds rather than steel or aluminium ones, a 2.5 bar resin injection pressure (as opposed to the traditional 6) and far lower curing temperatures.
Lambo then uses epoxy foam shapes to build spaces inside the tub which also double as harmonic dampers. Then there's another carbon breakthrough, called Braiding, which weaves carbon strands into tubular shapes ideal for adding strength in the A-pillar and down in the sill. They are also easy to replace in collisions.
Lamborghini also uses the traditional, labour-intensive prepreg system for all the surfaces people see and touch, because it gives a better look and is easier to paint. It combines all three carbon systems and cures them together and still manages production tolerances of just 0.1mm.
Attached to this at both ends are pushrod suspension systems, which remotely relay the wheel forces to spring, and Ohlins damper units mounted directly to the chassis. Up front, this forged aluminum pushrod attaches to a unit directly in front of the windscreen, while the rear units sit almost horizontally and attach just behind the engine.
Lamborghini claims this is a far more accurate way to design suspension architecture and has been derived directly from motor racing: Formula One and Indycars all run either push or pull rod suspensions.
The new suspension layout allows for larger braking units: the Aventador uses massive 400mm x 38mm carbon-ceramic rotors clamped hard by six-piston monobloc calipers at the front. The brake diameter at the rear is still 380mm x 38mm, and uses a smaller four-piston caliper.
There are custom-designed Pirelli PZeros all round, too, with seemingly tiny 255/35 R19s up front (steered by a new electro-mechanical steering system) and monstrous 335/30 R20s at the back.
While the Aventador promises to be a more integrated car than its predecessor -- which was little more than a delivery system for its engine -- the LP700-4 discussions will be centred on its all-new motor.
A clean-sheet engine is a rare thing these days, and it's even more rare when you're talking about 500-800 cars a year.
Yet a clean sheet is exactly what Volkswagen Group boss, Dr Martin Winterkorn, gave Lamborghini's engineers, and they ran with it.
At 6498.5cc, it's roughly the same size as the old Murcielago engine, but that's where the resemblance ends. Its crankshaft is different, its cylinder heads are different, its bore and stroke is different and its bore centres are different. The only thing it retains is a 60-degree vee angle.
There's plenty of power, because that's Lamborghini's way. Four throttle bodies help it to 700 horses at 8250rpm and 690Nm of torque at 5500, yet it's a monstrous big thing and needs a big hole in the engine bay to carry it.
It's an enormously oversquare device (at 95mm x 76.4mm) mainly, as Technical Director Maurizio Reggiani admitted, to reduce piston speeds at its 8250rpm power peak to just 21 metres/second.
Still dry sumped, the engine has a silicon-alloy crankcase with seven bearings and a bedplate with eight integrated scavenge pumps to extract any last drop of unwanted oil.
The crank itself is a far lighter (24.6kg) and stiffer unit, forged and nitride hardened, and spins beneath a pair of 32-valve cylinder heads (21kg each) that contain variable valve timing and lift technology, plus in-cylinder ionization to precisely control each spark and prevent any pre-ignition. Lamborghini insisted on this last piece of technology because, at 11.8:1, its compression ratio is high, enough to warrant more precision in case of poor fuel.
At 235kg, it's 18kg lighter than the old engine, its sump sits 60mm lower in the chassis and it's even got the rear diff housing cast into the back end of the block. That still doesn't mean it's small, though, at 784mm long, 665mm high and 848mm wide, even with the three-to-one exhaust manifolds in place.
If Lamborghini has one issue to spin with the weight of its carbon supercar, there's another with the fuel-delivery system.
It claims a 20 per cent reduction in fuel consumption and emissions (taking it down to, ahem, just 398 grams of CO2/km on the combined cycle), yet all isn't quite what it appears. There's no direct fuel injection, even though the Gallardo uses it, so the Aventador has a multi-point system and the engine contributes only about a quarter of the fuel-economy improvement.
But this engine -- an unforgiving refinement of existing road and race principles -- wasn't developed in isolation. While once Lamborghini's engine development stood alone, it's now part of a powertrain department, so it was developed in concert with the new electronic architecture, the new Haldex IV centre diff, the diffs, the driveshafts and, last but definitely not least, the gearbox.
The old six-speeder was past its time and, in keeping with the "two generations" ethos, Lamborghini and Graziano developed the most radical, audacious gearbox in production today.
The seven-speed unit is called an ISR (Independent Shifting Rods) gearbox, and boasts the fastest gearshift in the production car world today. At 0.05 seconds in its Corsa mode, it can change gear faster than the Ferrari Scuderia or 599 GTO.
It's a two-shaft gearbox (again, designed from a clean sheet of paper) and it's been derived from ideas used in racing gearboxes developed by Australian, Peter Hollinger. It breaks up the traditional gear pairings so that, as one gear is disengaging, the next one can be engaged by a different shifting rod simultaneously.
What's more, an all-new computer system capable of half a billion calculations a second can control the movement of each of the shifting rods independently and minutely, so it can give an ultra-smooth shift when you're cruising and a fast, aggressive shift when you're attacking.
All of its hydraulic lines are cast directly into the alloy casing, so there are no external lines. Even more innovative is that all seven gears (plus reverse) use carbon-fibre synchromesh cones.
The whole unit is 120kg, which is 1kg lighter than the old gearbox, but with an extra gear, and there's far less rotational inertia, too.
"It's a completely new electrical system," Reggiani confirmed. "We don't have one for the engine, one for the box, one for the AWD. There's just one system and it's based on a master ECU and a slave ECU.
"There's more than half a billion operations per second -- that's how much information per second goes to the ECU -- and the engine ECU is normally the master, except in launches when the gearbox ECU is the master."
The same electrical system controls the centre differential, which usually sends 70 per cent of the drive to the rear end, but can switch that instantly to 100 per cent (or zero) if required. It could, theoretically, send 100 per cent drive to the front, but the front diff is too small to handle that much torque...
Covering all of this is a bodyshell built for both speed and drama. Unlike the Murcielago, when the Aventador needs more air at higher speed it doesn't create more drag by opening a set of batwings. Instead, the Aventador uses active aerodynamics to open movable ducts in the side flanks for the oil cooler, while the higher side openings are purely to feed air into the engine.
There's a flat undertray to help the downforce at high speed and the rear wing also moves automatically. Reggiani insists it has negative lift at all speeds. It has three settings, dropping down to five degrees at very high speed and lifting to 11 degrees to help handling.
Inside, the Reventon's dalliance with TFT (thin-film transistor) instrument-cluster screens has paid dividends, because the Aventador has three of them in the dash alone (plus another for the MMI screen, mounted high on the centre of the dash.
This has allowed Lamborghini to provide all manner of information and options, including switching the speedo to a lower priority on the Corsa (track driving) mode so the driver can have a more prominent tacho.
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at the carsales mobile site
prestige new cars » Get the best price on a new Lamborghini
Geneva International Motor Show
The Murcielago's welded alloy tube-frame chassis was an old-school life-support system for its monstrous, but dated, 6.5-litre V12. For all its brutal charm, much of its technology was rooted in the past. What Lamborghini needed, its president claimed, was a two-generation leap.
And, technically at least, that's what his engineering team have delivered with the Aventador LP700-4. Clad in a typically aggressive bodyshell, it's based around a breakthrough car games bon-fibre chassis, clings to the road with pushrod suspension, changes gear through a radical seven-speed gearbox and punches it all forward with a brand-spanking new V12 engine.
With 700 horsepower (522kW) and 690Nm of torque, the new motor is seriously oversquare, 6.5-litres, lighter than the old engine, revs hard to 8250rpm and is strong enough to throw the Aventador to 100km/h in just 2.9 seconds. Top speed, Lamborghini officially claims, is 350km/h, though engineers admit to seeing more than that in testing...
While Lamborghini has released details of the Aventador's driveline before, it has been reserved on the supercar's other details. We can now finally reveal that it combines three different carbon-fibre technologies to make its chassis.
It's perhaps the technical breakthrough with the widest-reaching future, given that Audi is keen to poach some of Lambo's carbon prowess, because it gives the Aventador a passenger cell weighing just 147.5kg, but with a torsional stiffness of 35,000Nm per degree -- more than double the Murcielago's number.
This torsional stiffness, coupled with race-inspired pushrod suspension setup and double, forged aluminum wishbones all round, give the Aventador the handling accuracy it needs to cope with the frightening speeds the engine can produce.
Aluminium subframes are bolted to it at both ends to give Lamborghini somewhere to attach the engine, gearbox and suspension parts. But even then, the body-in-white is only 229.5kg.
Somehow, though, by the time Lamborghini added everything else, the Aventador ended up at 1575kg -- or 10 more than the old Murcielago SV and only 90kg lighter than the Murcielago LP650-4. It's better than being heavier, but it's a far cry from the 200kg weight saving that was being talked about only half a year ago.
While Lamborghini is staying mute on the subject, our information is that it switched to plastic panels (even though they give them a fancier, technical name) for cost reasons, and they are considerably heavier than the Murcielago's carbon ones. Still, with a 47.5:52.5 front-to-rear weight distribution in the LP700-4, an Aventador SV is already an enticing prospect...
Lamborghini has built a new, 5400 square metre carbon production facility at Sant'Agata to build and bring together the three different carbon-fibre production methods that come together on the Aventador -- two of which have never been seen anywhere else before.
The first is RTM Lambo; an RTM (Resin Transfer Moulding) system developed by Lamborghini and the University of Washington, of which most of the tub is made. There are a lot of technical and production benefits to it, including high levels of automation, no hand lamination, no autoclave, lighter, carbon-fibre moulds rather than steel or aluminium ones, a 2.5 bar resin injection pressure (as opposed to the traditional 6) and far lower curing temperatures.
Lambo then uses epoxy foam shapes to build spaces inside the tub which also double as harmonic dampers. Then there's another carbon breakthrough, called Braiding, which weaves carbon strands into tubular shapes ideal for adding strength in the A-pillar and down in the sill. They are also easy to replace in collisions.
Lamborghini also uses the traditional, labour-intensive prepreg system for all the surfaces people see and touch, because it gives a better look and is easier to paint. It combines all three carbon systems and cures them together and still manages production tolerances of just 0.1mm.
Attached to this at both ends are pushrod suspension systems, which remotely relay the wheel forces to spring, and Ohlins damper units mounted directly to the chassis. Up front, this forged aluminum pushrod attaches to a unit directly in front of the windscreen, while the rear units sit almost horizontally and attach just behind the engine.
Lamborghini claims this is a far more accurate way to design suspension architecture and has been derived directly from motor racing: Formula One and Indycars all run either push or pull rod suspensions.
The new suspension layout allows for larger braking units: the Aventador uses massive 400mm x 38mm carbon-ceramic rotors clamped hard by six-piston monobloc calipers at the front. The brake diameter at the rear is still 380mm x 38mm, and uses a smaller four-piston caliper.
There are custom-designed Pirelli PZeros all round, too, with seemingly tiny 255/35 R19s up front (steered by a new electro-mechanical steering system) and monstrous 335/30 R20s at the back.
While the Aventador promises to be a more integrated car than its predecessor -- which was little more than a delivery system for its engine -- the LP700-4 discussions will be centred on its all-new motor.
A clean-sheet engine is a rare thing these days, and it's even more rare when you're talking about 500-800 cars a year.
Yet a clean sheet is exactly what Volkswagen Group boss, Dr Martin Winterkorn, gave Lamborghini's engineers, and they ran with it.
At 6498.5cc, it's roughly the same size as the old Murcielago engine, but that's where the resemblance ends. Its crankshaft is different, its cylinder heads are different, its bore and stroke is different and its bore centres are different. The only thing it retains is a 60-degree vee angle.
There's plenty of power, because that's Lamborghini's way. Four throttle bodies help it to 700 horses at 8250rpm and 690Nm of torque at 5500, yet it's a monstrous big thing and needs a big hole in the engine bay to carry it.
It's an enormously oversquare device (at 95mm x 76.4mm) mainly, as Technical Director Maurizio Reggiani admitted, to reduce piston speeds at its 8250rpm power peak to just 21 metres/second.
Still dry sumped, the engine has a silicon-alloy crankcase with seven bearings and a bedplate with eight integrated scavenge pumps to extract any last drop of unwanted oil.
The crank itself is a far lighter (24.6kg) and stiffer unit, forged and nitride hardened, and spins beneath a pair of 32-valve cylinder heads (21kg each) that contain variable valve timing and lift technology, plus in-cylinder ionization to precisely control each spark and prevent any pre-ignition. Lamborghini insisted on this last piece of technology because, at 11.8:1, its compression ratio is high, enough to warrant more precision in case of poor fuel.
At 235kg, it's 18kg lighter than the old engine, its sump sits 60mm lower in the chassis and it's even got the rear diff housing cast into the back end of the block. That still doesn't mean it's small, though, at 784mm long, 665mm high and 848mm wide, even with the three-to-one exhaust manifolds in place.
If Lamborghini has one issue to spin with the weight of its carbon supercar, there's another with the fuel-delivery system.
It claims a 20 per cent reduction in fuel consumption and emissions (taking it down to, ahem, just 398 grams of CO2/km on the combined cycle), yet all isn't quite what it appears. There's no direct fuel injection, even though the Gallardo uses it, so the Aventador has a multi-point system and the engine contributes only about a quarter of the fuel-economy improvement.
But this engine -- an unforgiving refinement of existing road and race principles -- wasn't developed in isolation. While once Lamborghini's engine development stood alone, it's now part of a powertrain department, so it was developed in concert with the new electronic architecture, the new Haldex IV centre diff, the diffs, the driveshafts and, last but definitely not least, the gearbox.
The old six-speeder was past its time and, in keeping with the "two generations" ethos, Lamborghini and Graziano developed the most radical, audacious gearbox in production today.
The seven-speed unit is called an ISR (Independent Shifting Rods) gearbox, and boasts the fastest gearshift in the production car world today. At 0.05 seconds in its Corsa mode, it can change gear faster than the Ferrari Scuderia or 599 GTO.
It's a two-shaft gearbox (again, designed from a clean sheet of paper) and it's been derived from ideas used in racing gearboxes developed by Australian, Peter Hollinger. It breaks up the traditional gear pairings so that, as one gear is disengaging, the next one can be engaged by a different shifting rod simultaneously.
What's more, an all-new computer system capable of half a billion calculations a second can control the movement of each of the shifting rods independently and minutely, so it can give an ultra-smooth shift when you're cruising and a fast, aggressive shift when you're attacking.
All of its hydraulic lines are cast directly into the alloy casing, so there are no external lines. Even more innovative is that all seven gears (plus reverse) use carbon-fibre synchromesh cones.
The whole unit is 120kg, which is 1kg lighter than the old gearbox, but with an extra gear, and there's far less rotational inertia, too.
"It's a completely new electrical system," Reggiani confirmed. "We don't have one for the engine, one for the box, one for the AWD. There's just one system and it's based on a master ECU and a slave ECU.
"There's more than half a billion operations per second -- that's how much information per second goes to the ECU -- and the engine ECU is normally the master, except in launches when the gearbox ECU is the master."
The same electrical system controls the centre differential, which usually sends 70 per cent of the drive to the rear end, but can switch that instantly to 100 per cent (or zero) if required. It could, theoretically, send 100 per cent drive to the front, but the front diff is too small to handle that much torque...
Covering all of this is a bodyshell built for both speed and drama. Unlike the Murcielago, when the Aventador needs more air at higher speed it doesn't create more drag by opening a set of batwings. Instead, the Aventador uses active aerodynamics to open movable ducts in the side flanks for the oil cooler, while the higher side openings are purely to feed air into the engine.
There's a flat undertray to help the downforce at high speed and the rear wing also moves automatically. Reggiani insists it has negative lift at all speeds. It has three settings, dropping down to five degrees at very high speed and lifting to 11 degrees to help handling.
Inside, the Reventon's dalliance with TFT (thin-film transistor) instrument-cluster screens has paid dividends, because the Aventador has three of them in the dash alone (plus another for the MMI screen, mounted high on the centre of the dash.
This has allowed Lamborghini to provide all manner of information and options, including switching the speedo to a lower priority on the Corsa (track driving) mode so the driver can have a more prominent tacho.
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at the carsales mobile site
Apple's iPad comes to the car
New city car uses an iPad to open doors, control cabin functions
Geneva International Motor Show
There's now another reason to be annoyed at overjoyed Apple iPad owners – pretty soon they'll be able to control the basic functions of a car with their personal compact computer screen.
With an iPad they'll be able to open their car's door by touching the screen on approach – and then click the iPad into the dash where it acts as the touch screen for the vehicle's cabin controls.
There's only one catch: the car isn't on sale yet. The Tata Pixel was one of the concept-car stars at the Geneva motor show overnight.
It's the latest tiny car made by Indian car making giant Tata designed to take-on the world.
The Tata Pixel has seating for four and Lamborghini-like 'scissor' doors that swing up so it's easy to get in and out of tight spots.
It also has an ingenius rear wheel axle design that enables the Pixel to do a complete U-turn within the space of its own shadow.
It's a concept car only for now, which means it is at least three years away from showrooms – but Tata is serious about bringing the Pixel or a car very much like it into production.
It is based on the same underpinnings as the Tata Nano – the world's cheapest car – but has been designed with European regulations (and taste) in mind.
It's powered by a rear-mounted 1.0-litre diesel engine that meets the latest emissions standards, the company says.
When asked if the Tata Pixel would come to Australia, Tata automotive boss Karl-Peter Forster told the Carsales Network: "Well, it will be made in right-hand drive, but are you sure Australia is a city-car market?"
Given that Tata already has Jaguar and Land Rover offices in Australia, the infrastructure would be in place to introduce the car locally "if it was deemed the right thing to do", he said.
"We would have to look at it," he said. "Of course, we can sell it in Australia and we have the support there already, but it's yet to be decided if this car is suitable for Australia. It is still only a concept so it's at least a few years away yet."
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at the carsales mobile site
Geneva International Motor Show
There's now another reason to be annoyed at overjoyed Apple iPad owners – pretty soon they'll be able to control the basic functions of a car with their personal compact computer screen.
With an iPad they'll be able to open their car's door by touching the screen on approach – and then click the iPad into the dash where it acts as the touch screen for the vehicle's cabin controls.
There's only one catch: the car isn't on sale yet. The Tata Pixel was one of the concept-car stars at the Geneva motor show overnight.
It's the latest tiny car made by Indian car making giant Tata designed to take-on the world.
The Tata Pixel has seating for four and Lamborghini-like 'scissor' doors that swing up so it's easy to get in and out of tight spots.
It also has an ingenius rear wheel axle design that enables the Pixel to do a complete U-turn within the space of its own shadow.
It's a concept car only for now, which means it is at least three years away from showrooms – but Tata is serious about bringing the Pixel or a car very much like it into production.
It is based on the same underpinnings as the Tata Nano – the world's cheapest car – but has been designed with European regulations (and taste) in mind.
It's powered by a rear-mounted 1.0-litre diesel engine that meets the latest emissions standards, the company says.
When asked if the Tata Pixel would come to Australia, Tata automotive boss Karl-Peter Forster told the Carsales Network: "Well, it will be made in right-hand drive, but are you sure Australia is a city-car market?"
Given that Tata already has Jaguar and Land Rover offices in Australia, the infrastructure would be in place to introduce the car locally "if it was deemed the right thing to do", he said.
"We would have to look at it," he said. "Of course, we can sell it in Australia and we have the support there already, but it's yet to be decided if this car is suitable for Australia. It is still only a concept so it's at least a few years away yet."
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at the carsales mobile site
GM US to use Holden's iQ
Buick Lacrosse prowling Australian streets for the past year may have implications for Australian electronics developers
discount new cars » Get the best price on a new Holden
A current-model Buick Lacrosse that has been circulating around the streets of Melbourne for more than a year has invited plenty of speculation -- including a proposition that the front-drive American car could form the basis for a future Holden Commodore.
The rationale was that Holden might consider adopting Lacrosse architecture (dubbed Epsilon II and also used in the Australia-bound Opel Insignia) for its volume production models such as Commodore, while continuing with new-generation Zeta rear-drive platforms for its long-wheelbase luxury models. Buick's use of a front-drive version of the current Holden V6 engine was seen as an indicator of the Epsilon platform's suitability.
But the speculation takes on less significance with Holden's recent confirmation that the Buick is actually in Australia under the care of its electrical engineering department. Extending the fact of its presence as a pointer to a front-drive Commodore thus sounds a bit fanciful.
However, there may be implications for Siemens VDO, the Continental-owned company that specialises in technologies including electronic stability control and sensor systems. Siemens VDO was the main developer of Holden's new iQ system introduced in the Series II Commodore -- a multi-function system that embraces a multitude of in-car technologies including infotainment and telematics.
Siemens VDO has a strong association with the Australian car industry as the developer and manufacturer of dash electronics for car-makers including not just Holden, but also Ford, Toyota and, once upon a time, Mitsubishi.
With Siemens VDO's proven expertise in the area, it would not be surprising that GM would take an interest in transferring the technology to selected models in its North American lineup.
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at the carsales mobile site
discount new cars » Get the best price on a new Holden
A current-model Buick Lacrosse that has been circulating around the streets of Melbourne for more than a year has invited plenty of speculation -- including a proposition that the front-drive American car could form the basis for a future Holden Commodore.
The rationale was that Holden might consider adopting Lacrosse architecture (dubbed Epsilon II and also used in the Australia-bound Opel Insignia) for its volume production models such as Commodore, while continuing with new-generation Zeta rear-drive platforms for its long-wheelbase luxury models. Buick's use of a front-drive version of the current Holden V6 engine was seen as an indicator of the Epsilon platform's suitability.
But the speculation takes on less significance with Holden's recent confirmation that the Buick is actually in Australia under the care of its electrical engineering department. Extending the fact of its presence as a pointer to a front-drive Commodore thus sounds a bit fanciful.
However, there may be implications for Siemens VDO, the Continental-owned company that specialises in technologies including electronic stability control and sensor systems. Siemens VDO was the main developer of Holden's new iQ system introduced in the Series II Commodore -- a multi-function system that embraces a multitude of in-car technologies including infotainment and telematics.
Siemens VDO has a strong association with the Australian car industry as the developer and manufacturer of dash electronics for car-makers including not just Holden, but also Ford, Toyota and, once upon a time, Mitsubishi.
With Siemens VDO's proven expertise in the area, it would not be surprising that GM would take an interest in transferring the technology to selected models in its North American lineup.
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at the carsales mobile site
Fuel-efficient Territory delayed by GFC
Ford's vehicle line director for Territory names diesel development project a "fall-out program"
discount new cars » Get the best price on a new Ford
It's been a long-standing lament among Ford fans: where's the diesel Territory?
Holden literally doubled sales of its Captiva overnight, from the introduction of the diesel model in 2007, and R-Series diesel variants of Kia's Sorento and Hyundai's Santa Fe have attracted wide praise from the press and buyers.
But Ford has had no answer to these fast-selling rivals, and in the context of upward spiralling fuel prices prior to the global financial crisis, sales of the company's Territory SUV began to decline. Diesel engines are a way for Aussie buyers to enjoy the packaging flexibility that car games such as the Territory offer, without paying a penalty at the pump. Vehicle line director at Ford Australia for the Falcon and Territory, Russell Christophers, freely admits that diesel sales within SUV segments are growing rapidly.
"The primary reason for Territory's [market] share decline has been the increase in demand for diesel. Diesel in the segment now accounts for about 40 per cent of sales. My call is that by the end of the year, diesel demand will be around 50 per cent."
Ford was reportedly working on a diesel powerplant for the Territory long ago, but it's only now, with the imminent launch of the new SZ model that the mid-sized SUV will offer buyers that alternative to the inline six. Asked why it has taken Ford so long to bring the diesel Territory to market, Christophers responded that it fell victim to the changing global economic situation two years ago.
"We just didn't have enough engineering capacity..." said Christophers, who described the Territory upgrade as a "fall-out program", put aside as the Global Financial Crisis began to bite -- not only here but all around the world.
Now however, the diesel Territory is finally upon us. Promising combined-cycle fuel consumption of 8.2L/100km (the rear-wheel drive variants) or fuel consumption ranging from 8.8L/100km (AWD TX and TS) or 9.0L/100km for the AWD Titanium variant, the diesel is a 2.7-litre common-rail turbodiesel V6. According to Ford, the rear-wheel drive Territory diesel manages a range of up to 1154km, based on its 75-litre tank capacity.
Peak power of 140kW is delivered at 4000rpm and the engine cranks up at maximum torque between 1900 and 2500rpm.
Developed by Ford at the company's technical centre in Dagenham (in the UK) as part of a joint project with PSA Peugeot Citroen, the diesel V6 is powering a Ford-branded vehicle for the very first time in the Territory application. Unlike the same engine fitted to earlier models of Jaguar, the Territory's diesel features a single turbocharger with variable vane geometry.
"The package drives the [choice of the] single turbo and also the performance characteristics were ideally suited for what we were doing on Territory," explained David Mitchell, Ford Australia's Powertrain Development Manager. Between the need for fuel economy and the ability or otherwise to cram a potentially bulky V6 with a twin-turbo induction system into a vehicle originally designed for in-line engines alone, the single turbo powerplant turned out to be the only real choice.
One of the packaging constraints for the engine was the need to integrate the front differential with the sump of the engine, Ford's NVH team finding a way to turn a minus into a plus by isolating the engine and the differential from the vehicle's body.
Tested for hot-weather durability in central Australia, the diesel Territory was also subjected to cold-weather testing in North America, including prolonged stays in a 'cold box' reduced to -10 degrees.
Although the fuel economy for the diesel V6 is commendable in a vehicle weighing around two tonnes, the engine comes with 'run-dry protection', to ensure that if fuel is running low, the engine will eventually cut out before the high-pressure Continental piezo injectors are bled dry, potentially causing damage.
The diesel is mated to an American-built Ford 6R80 six-speed automatic transmission, which was jointly developed by Ford and ZF. Mitchell explained to the Carsales Network that the Territory's development team settled on the 6R80 rather than the ZF transmission already calibrated for the petrol Territory for reasons of cost efficiency.
"The ZF had a natural follow-on from the six-cylinder's previous transmission; when we went to do the diesel, I guess the options were there taking the Ford diesel engine and a matched Ford transmission and packaging that together for the new application. So it came about from putting together those off-the-shelf opportunities..."
For the Territory, the 6R80 transmission, which also used in Mustang and F-Series, has a longer bell housing to allow for the shorter length of the V6 diesel engine -- in contrast with the in-line petrol six.
In rear-wheel drive form, the Territory diesel drives through a 3.23:1 differential ratio, but the all-wheel drive model, with its active transfer case, uses a 3.46:1 ratio. The higher ratio diff (3.23:1) is also shared with the petrol Territory, which is only available in rear-wheel drive variants.
Changes to the petrol six are relatively few, although a new intake manifold, a fast-burn cylinder head and earlier spark timing have contributed a 1.5 per cent improvement in fuel efficiency and the engine's power and torque are raised slightly.
In combined-cycle ADR81/02 testing, the petrol Territory rates 10.6L/100km -- down from 12.0L/100km for the SY II (seven-seat) model. Over the course of the Territory's life, fuel consumption has dropped steadily from 13.1 for the SX model with four-speed BTR transmission to 12.2 for the SY model, then 11.6 for the five-seater SY II and now 10.6L/100km for the SZ model with ZF six-speed. Total fuel consumption improvement since 2004, based on these figures, is 19.1 per cent.
Peak power (182kW in 2004) is up 7.1 per cent and torque (380Nm in 2004) has improved 2.9 per cent. The new output figures for the revised petrol six in the SZ model are 195kW and 391Nm, running 91 RON fuel.
The fuel efficiency of both petrol and diesel Territory models is also assisted by the introduction of EPAS, Electric Power Assisted Steering. Ford's Vehicle Dynamics Manager, Alex de Vlugt, claims that the new steering system (replacing the hydraulic system in previous models), delivers a number of benefits, a couple of which are quite sophisticated.
"It's no longer necessary to have a very direct trade-off between steering weight and feedback," de Vlugt explained.
The system, which varies assistance in accordance with road-speed, will be light enough in parking manoeuvres and communicative enough at speed. In addition, EPAS compensates for a mis-aligned front end -- for those in the habit of clouting kerbs. It learns from the driver's own steering input to adjust for alignment or the camber of the road, to use another example. This feature is named Drift/pull compensation and, along with 'Active Nibble Compensation', which counteracts vibration from tyres that are out of balance, eliminates some of the irritating aspects of driving.
EPAS is one of a number of changes to steering and suspension for the SZ Territory. The Dynamics team has tuned the suspension for reduced body roll (through heavier anti-roll bars and springs) and revised the front geometry for increased linear-range understeer at higher speeds. This effectively takes out 'nervousness' in the steering.
For the purposes of active safety, Ford engineers have specified Bosch's 9.0 stability control system, which allows the adoption of Roll-Over Mitigation in the Territory. The system is complemented by new brake pad materials that improve pedal feel and a self-adjusting park brake.
They all play their part in making the new Territory "great to drive", in de Vlugt's words.
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site...
discount new cars » Get the best price on a new Ford
It's been a long-standing lament among Ford fans: where's the diesel Territory?
Holden literally doubled sales of its Captiva overnight, from the introduction of the diesel model in 2007, and R-Series diesel variants of Kia's Sorento and Hyundai's Santa Fe have attracted wide praise from the press and buyers.
But Ford has had no answer to these fast-selling rivals, and in the context of upward spiralling fuel prices prior to the global financial crisis, sales of the company's Territory SUV began to decline. Diesel engines are a way for Aussie buyers to enjoy the packaging flexibility that car games such as the Territory offer, without paying a penalty at the pump. Vehicle line director at Ford Australia for the Falcon and Territory, Russell Christophers, freely admits that diesel sales within SUV segments are growing rapidly.
"The primary reason for Territory's [market] share decline has been the increase in demand for diesel. Diesel in the segment now accounts for about 40 per cent of sales. My call is that by the end of the year, diesel demand will be around 50 per cent."
Ford was reportedly working on a diesel powerplant for the Territory long ago, but it's only now, with the imminent launch of the new SZ model that the mid-sized SUV will offer buyers that alternative to the inline six. Asked why it has taken Ford so long to bring the diesel Territory to market, Christophers responded that it fell victim to the changing global economic situation two years ago.
"We just didn't have enough engineering capacity..." said Christophers, who described the Territory upgrade as a "fall-out program", put aside as the Global Financial Crisis began to bite -- not only here but all around the world.
Now however, the diesel Territory is finally upon us. Promising combined-cycle fuel consumption of 8.2L/100km (the rear-wheel drive variants) or fuel consumption ranging from 8.8L/100km (AWD TX and TS) or 9.0L/100km for the AWD Titanium variant, the diesel is a 2.7-litre common-rail turbodiesel V6. According to Ford, the rear-wheel drive Territory diesel manages a range of up to 1154km, based on its 75-litre tank capacity.
Peak power of 140kW is delivered at 4000rpm and the engine cranks up at maximum torque between 1900 and 2500rpm.
Developed by Ford at the company's technical centre in Dagenham (in the UK) as part of a joint project with PSA Peugeot Citroen, the diesel V6 is powering a Ford-branded vehicle for the very first time in the Territory application. Unlike the same engine fitted to earlier models of Jaguar, the Territory's diesel features a single turbocharger with variable vane geometry.
"The package drives the [choice of the] single turbo and also the performance characteristics were ideally suited for what we were doing on Territory," explained David Mitchell, Ford Australia's Powertrain Development Manager. Between the need for fuel economy and the ability or otherwise to cram a potentially bulky V6 with a twin-turbo induction system into a vehicle originally designed for in-line engines alone, the single turbo powerplant turned out to be the only real choice.
One of the packaging constraints for the engine was the need to integrate the front differential with the sump of the engine, Ford's NVH team finding a way to turn a minus into a plus by isolating the engine and the differential from the vehicle's body.
Tested for hot-weather durability in central Australia, the diesel Territory was also subjected to cold-weather testing in North America, including prolonged stays in a 'cold box' reduced to -10 degrees.
Although the fuel economy for the diesel V6 is commendable in a vehicle weighing around two tonnes, the engine comes with 'run-dry protection', to ensure that if fuel is running low, the engine will eventually cut out before the high-pressure Continental piezo injectors are bled dry, potentially causing damage.
The diesel is mated to an American-built Ford 6R80 six-speed automatic transmission, which was jointly developed by Ford and ZF. Mitchell explained to the Carsales Network that the Territory's development team settled on the 6R80 rather than the ZF transmission already calibrated for the petrol Territory for reasons of cost efficiency.
"The ZF had a natural follow-on from the six-cylinder's previous transmission; when we went to do the diesel, I guess the options were there taking the Ford diesel engine and a matched Ford transmission and packaging that together for the new application. So it came about from putting together those off-the-shelf opportunities..."
For the Territory, the 6R80 transmission, which also used in Mustang and F-Series, has a longer bell housing to allow for the shorter length of the V6 diesel engine -- in contrast with the in-line petrol six.
In rear-wheel drive form, the Territory diesel drives through a 3.23:1 differential ratio, but the all-wheel drive model, with its active transfer case, uses a 3.46:1 ratio. The higher ratio diff (3.23:1) is also shared with the petrol Territory, which is only available in rear-wheel drive variants.
Changes to the petrol six are relatively few, although a new intake manifold, a fast-burn cylinder head and earlier spark timing have contributed a 1.5 per cent improvement in fuel efficiency and the engine's power and torque are raised slightly.
In combined-cycle ADR81/02 testing, the petrol Territory rates 10.6L/100km -- down from 12.0L/100km for the SY II (seven-seat) model. Over the course of the Territory's life, fuel consumption has dropped steadily from 13.1 for the SX model with four-speed BTR transmission to 12.2 for the SY model, then 11.6 for the five-seater SY II and now 10.6L/100km for the SZ model with ZF six-speed. Total fuel consumption improvement since 2004, based on these figures, is 19.1 per cent.
Peak power (182kW in 2004) is up 7.1 per cent and torque (380Nm in 2004) has improved 2.9 per cent. The new output figures for the revised petrol six in the SZ model are 195kW and 391Nm, running 91 RON fuel.
The fuel efficiency of both petrol and diesel Territory models is also assisted by the introduction of EPAS, Electric Power Assisted Steering. Ford's Vehicle Dynamics Manager, Alex de Vlugt, claims that the new steering system (replacing the hydraulic system in previous models), delivers a number of benefits, a couple of which are quite sophisticated.
"It's no longer necessary to have a very direct trade-off between steering weight and feedback," de Vlugt explained.
The system, which varies assistance in accordance with road-speed, will be light enough in parking manoeuvres and communicative enough at speed. In addition, EPAS compensates for a mis-aligned front end -- for those in the habit of clouting kerbs. It learns from the driver's own steering input to adjust for alignment or the camber of the road, to use another example. This feature is named Drift/pull compensation and, along with 'Active Nibble Compensation', which counteracts vibration from tyres that are out of balance, eliminates some of the irritating aspects of driving.
EPAS is one of a number of changes to steering and suspension for the SZ Territory. The Dynamics team has tuned the suspension for reduced body roll (through heavier anti-roll bars and springs) and revised the front geometry for increased linear-range understeer at higher speeds. This effectively takes out 'nervousness' in the steering.
For the purposes of active safety, Ford engineers have specified Bosch's 9.0 stability control system, which allows the adoption of Roll-Over Mitigation in the Territory. The system is complemented by new brake pad materials that improve pedal feel and a self-adjusting park brake.
They all play their part in making the new Territory "great to drive", in de Vlugt's words.
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site...
CN CONFIDENTIAL: The case of the dueling '1's
BMW's entry-level hatches suffer identity crisis; structural rigidity a matter of material concern for Lambo and Audi; plus Malaysian journos like 'our' Optima
Whether it's from the www, the latest motor show or the back doors of a carmaker near you, Carsales Network Confidential features the good oil other sources either won't publish, don't care about or don't know. Heard an automotive rumour or new model tip? Then let us know - editor@carpoint.com.au
Front-drive 1 Series?
BMW will break with tradition by simultaneously selling two completely different cars -- and calling them both 1 Series -- as early as 2013.
Sources inside the Bavarian company have confirmed the company will sell both front- and rear-drive 1 Series-branded cars within two to three years.
The two unique 1 Series versions will have overlapping model cycles, with the rear-drive versions due for a new, 3-Series-based architecture later this year, while the front-drive versions will use BMW's all-new UKL platform.
Yet, bizarrely, BMW's product planners see no option but to market both of its otherwise-separate models as 1 Series cars.
The potentially confusing scenario will be clarified somewhat by giving the rear-drive 1 Series cars more horsepower, while the front-drivers will be aimed more at fleet customers, sources suggested. Our informants also tell us that the new, front-driving '1' will offer an extra 10cm of length in the cabin, compared with the rear-drive models.
And if a front-wheel drive 1 Series sounds a lot like, well... a MINI, we'll place good money on the new car being a little more commodious and a long way removed from the MINI in character.
Next Lamborghini Gallardo
Its all-new big brother might boast a thumping V12 engine and a carbonfibre chassis, but don't expect the next Gallardo to follow suit when it arrives in 2013.
While Lamborghini has pushed its parent company, Audi, to let it stretch its carbon-manufacturing abilities down to the smaller, higher-volume Gallardo, Audi's Quattro GmbH division is pushing back even harder to keep the cheaper all-aluminium space-frame chassis for the R8.
With senior Audi sources insisting the architecture of the cars will be twinned into the foreseeable future, Lamborghini and Quattro can't both win and, sources inside Quattro insist, the next R8 won't be a carbon-based life form.
That means the Gallardo won't be, either, even though that will leave the sub-Aventador carbonfibre supercar market to McLaren.
'Aussie' Optima for the Malays
Malaysian journalists are lobbying Kia in their home country for Kia's Optima to be sold there with the same suspension tune as the Aussie-spec cars.
The Malaysians were here for the launch of the Optima on Australian turf and were plainly pretty impressed with the car.
We can't help feeling that typical Malaysian drivers may not be as enamoured of the Australian suspension tune as their journalists are. And in a world where the customer is always right, it's our guess that no matter how much the journos push for the locally-developed ride/handling dynamics, those who stump up the money for the cushy ride and lifeless steering will win out.
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site...
Whether it's from the www, the latest motor show or the back doors of a carmaker near you, Carsales Network Confidential features the good oil other sources either won't publish, don't care about or don't know. Heard an automotive rumour or new model tip? Then let us know - editor@carpoint.com.au
Front-drive 1 Series?
BMW will break with tradition by simultaneously selling two completely different cars -- and calling them both 1 Series -- as early as 2013.
Sources inside the Bavarian company have confirmed the company will sell both front- and rear-drive 1 Series-branded cars within two to three years.
The two unique 1 Series versions will have overlapping model cycles, with the rear-drive versions due for a new, 3-Series-based architecture later this year, while the front-drive versions will use BMW's all-new UKL platform.
Yet, bizarrely, BMW's product planners see no option but to market both of its otherwise-separate models as 1 Series cars.
The potentially confusing scenario will be clarified somewhat by giving the rear-drive 1 Series cars more horsepower, while the front-drivers will be aimed more at fleet customers, sources suggested. Our informants also tell us that the new, front-driving '1' will offer an extra 10cm of length in the cabin, compared with the rear-drive models.
And if a front-wheel drive 1 Series sounds a lot like, well... a MINI, we'll place good money on the new car being a little more commodious and a long way removed from the MINI in character.
Next Lamborghini Gallardo
Its all-new big brother might boast a thumping V12 engine and a carbonfibre chassis, but don't expect the next Gallardo to follow suit when it arrives in 2013.
While Lamborghini has pushed its parent company, Audi, to let it stretch its carbon-manufacturing abilities down to the smaller, higher-volume Gallardo, Audi's Quattro GmbH division is pushing back even harder to keep the cheaper all-aluminium space-frame chassis for the R8.
With senior Audi sources insisting the architecture of the cars will be twinned into the foreseeable future, Lamborghini and Quattro can't both win and, sources inside Quattro insist, the next R8 won't be a carbon-based life form.
That means the Gallardo won't be, either, even though that will leave the sub-Aventador carbonfibre supercar market to McLaren.
'Aussie' Optima for the Malays
Malaysian journalists are lobbying Kia in their home country for Kia's Optima to be sold there with the same suspension tune as the Aussie-spec cars.
The Malaysians were here for the launch of the Optima on Australian turf and were plainly pretty impressed with the car.
We can't help feeling that typical Malaysian drivers may not be as enamoured of the Australian suspension tune as their journalists are. And in a world where the customer is always right, it's our guess that no matter how much the journos push for the locally-developed ride/handling dynamics, those who stump up the money for the cushy ride and lifeless steering will win out.
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site...
Singer Design creates the ultimate classic 911
Think the modern Porsche 911 has become a little too sanitised? Here's the solution
Porsche has steadily evolved the 911 to the extent that some purists lament the passing of the air-cooled engine and classic upright shape that first saw the light of day in the 1960s.
Said individuals can now rejoice because California-based Singer Design has conjured up this sublime creation, which packages modern technology and refinement within the bodyshells of pre-1994 Porches.
The engines are based on the 3.6-litre air-cooled flat-six units from the 1990 964 series, and are balanced and blueprinted before being equipped with individual throttle bodies and a Motec ECU.
Power ranges from 225kW to 317kW (depending on the level of tune specified), channelled to the rear wheels via a five-speed Getrag G50 transmission from the 964 series cars or a six-speed Getrag G50 transmission from the 993 series. A limited-slip differential is optional.
Singer quotes a 0-60mph (0-96km/h) split of 3.9sec and top whack of 275km/h for the flagship model, which puts it more or less on par with the current 911 GT3.
The suspension features uprated Bilstein adjustable dampers and coil-over springs, while all bushings, connectors and front and rear sway bars are replaced by state-of-the-art units. Stopping power is also boosted via four-piston Brembo anchors.
The whole lot rides on newly developed forged aluminum three‐piece wheels (9x17-inch at the front and 11x17 at the rear) in the style of the iconic Fuchs wheels designed in the 1960s.
The bodywork makes extensive use of carbonfibre, as the bonnet, front and rear guards and front and rear bumpers are crafted from the lightweight substance. There's also an optional integrated roll cage upholstered in padded leather.
The front spoiler is a fixed, flexible urethane unit while the rear spoiler is an active, speed-sensitive unit that rises into position at 100km/h and recalls the classic 'ducktail' from the 1973 Carrera RS.
The spoilers have black detailing like the Turbo Carreras of the 1970s and '80s, while the rear spoiler boasts a 1960s-inspired delicate chrome plated grille under which a tinted acrylic screen allows views of the engine.
Inside, the old-meets-new theme continues, with classic elements such as the RSR steering wheel, Heuer chronograph clock and leather-weave seats recapturing the essence of yesteryear's 911.
Singer Design plans to produce the delectable 911 in limited numbers, with pricing in the US around the $200,000 mark. Form an orderly queue...
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site...
Porsche has steadily evolved the 911 to the extent that some purists lament the passing of the air-cooled engine and classic upright shape that first saw the light of day in the 1960s.
Said individuals can now rejoice because California-based Singer Design has conjured up this sublime creation, which packages modern technology and refinement within the bodyshells of pre-1994 Porches.
The engines are based on the 3.6-litre air-cooled flat-six units from the 1990 964 series, and are balanced and blueprinted before being equipped with individual throttle bodies and a Motec ECU.
Power ranges from 225kW to 317kW (depending on the level of tune specified), channelled to the rear wheels via a five-speed Getrag G50 transmission from the 964 series cars or a six-speed Getrag G50 transmission from the 993 series. A limited-slip differential is optional.
Singer quotes a 0-60mph (0-96km/h) split of 3.9sec and top whack of 275km/h for the flagship model, which puts it more or less on par with the current 911 GT3.
The suspension features uprated Bilstein adjustable dampers and coil-over springs, while all bushings, connectors and front and rear sway bars are replaced by state-of-the-art units. Stopping power is also boosted via four-piston Brembo anchors.
The whole lot rides on newly developed forged aluminum three‐piece wheels (9x17-inch at the front and 11x17 at the rear) in the style of the iconic Fuchs wheels designed in the 1960s.
The bodywork makes extensive use of carbonfibre, as the bonnet, front and rear guards and front and rear bumpers are crafted from the lightweight substance. There's also an optional integrated roll cage upholstered in padded leather.
The front spoiler is a fixed, flexible urethane unit while the rear spoiler is an active, speed-sensitive unit that rises into position at 100km/h and recalls the classic 'ducktail' from the 1973 Carrera RS.
The spoilers have black detailing like the Turbo Carreras of the 1970s and '80s, while the rear spoiler boasts a 1960s-inspired delicate chrome plated grille under which a tinted acrylic screen allows views of the engine.
Inside, the old-meets-new theme continues, with classic elements such as the RSR steering wheel, Heuer chronograph clock and leather-weave seats recapturing the essence of yesteryear's 911.
Singer Design plans to produce the delectable 911 in limited numbers, with pricing in the US around the $200,000 mark. Form an orderly queue...
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site...
Thứ Ba, 13 tháng 3, 2012
SHANGHAI AUTO SHOW: China to eclipse 20 million new-vehicle sales
Growth has slowed, but world's biggest car market still setting records
The juggernaut that is the Chinese motor industry is predicted to set yet another record and pass 20 million new-vehicle sales this year -- even though growth has slowed.
After 10 phenomenal years -- from 2.5 million sales in 2001 to 18.3 million sales in 2010, an increase of more than 600 per cent -- new-car figures are up by only 8 per cent in the first three months of this year.
But the boss of General Motors in China, ex-pat Australian Kevin Wale, believes the country will be the first in the world to eclipse 20 million sales in one calendar year.
"It's still growing at about 8 per cent, which under any circumstances most people would think would be terrific," Wale told the Cars games ales Network at Auto Shanghai earlier this week.
If the Chinese market continues its current rate of growth, an 8 per cent increase would deliver an annual tally of 19.7 million, just shy of the 20 million mark.
But Wale's counterpart at Korean car maker Hyundai, Jae-man Noh, believes growth will lift to 15 per cent this year, in line with the Chinese Government's forecast -- and that the 30 million sales barrier will be broken by 2020.
"Mr Noh agrees with those forecasts," his interpreter said during a roundtable interview at Auto Shanghai yesterday. "In line with these forecasts [Hyundai] plans to increase its supply."
Hyundai broke ground on a new factory site last December; its third factory in Beijing, due to be completed by mid 2012, will give Hyundai alone an annual production capacity of 1 million vehicles -- equivalent to the entire Australian new-car market shared by 46 brands.
Wale said the Chinese market was so strong that growth would likely remain at "10 to 15 per cent for the next few years".
"There's still very strong underlying demand for the vehicles, good economic growth, a desire to increase consumption, increasing urbanization, low vehicle ownership, the fundamentals are there," he said. "Unless you get a major external shock I think it will continue to grow."
He said the recent reduction in government support for rural buyers and vehicles with small engines "had a pretty significant impact" on sales, but there was still plenty of demand.
"There are still people who want cars," Wale said. "I'm confident the market is still going to be pretty solid.
"The rest of the world tries to predict the future with pinpoint accuracy but we just don't bother. Whether growth is going to be ... 6 or 15 percent, it doesn't matter. Underneath, demand is solid."
When asked if General Motors regretted not investing more in China earlier, he said: "Whenever you're trailing a galloping, out-of-control horse you're always behind."
He said even if companies had over-invested by building new factories and networks they wouldn't be exposed for long.
"There's so much demand out there," he said. "If you get ahead of the game you'll have excess capacity for a couple of years, that's it. It's not like the market is declining, economic growth is still going to be solid.
You're not investing only for the future, you're actually ... getting good return on your money."
He said the Cruze sedan was a good example. "We do about 170,000 units a year. You're getting relatively quick returns on your investment. You're not ... having to wait for 10 years to have the market turn up.
"I think if you had it all over again you'd probably double down. You're thinking 'I should have gone harder'. You couldn't, but that's what you would've been saying."
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site...
The juggernaut that is the Chinese motor industry is predicted to set yet another record and pass 20 million new-vehicle sales this year -- even though growth has slowed.
After 10 phenomenal years -- from 2.5 million sales in 2001 to 18.3 million sales in 2010, an increase of more than 600 per cent -- new-car figures are up by only 8 per cent in the first three months of this year.
But the boss of General Motors in China, ex-pat Australian Kevin Wale, believes the country will be the first in the world to eclipse 20 million sales in one calendar year.
"It's still growing at about 8 per cent, which under any circumstances most people would think would be terrific," Wale told the Cars games ales Network at Auto Shanghai earlier this week.
If the Chinese market continues its current rate of growth, an 8 per cent increase would deliver an annual tally of 19.7 million, just shy of the 20 million mark.
But Wale's counterpart at Korean car maker Hyundai, Jae-man Noh, believes growth will lift to 15 per cent this year, in line with the Chinese Government's forecast -- and that the 30 million sales barrier will be broken by 2020.
"Mr Noh agrees with those forecasts," his interpreter said during a roundtable interview at Auto Shanghai yesterday. "In line with these forecasts [Hyundai] plans to increase its supply."
Hyundai broke ground on a new factory site last December; its third factory in Beijing, due to be completed by mid 2012, will give Hyundai alone an annual production capacity of 1 million vehicles -- equivalent to the entire Australian new-car market shared by 46 brands.
Wale said the Chinese market was so strong that growth would likely remain at "10 to 15 per cent for the next few years".
"There's still very strong underlying demand for the vehicles, good economic growth, a desire to increase consumption, increasing urbanization, low vehicle ownership, the fundamentals are there," he said. "Unless you get a major external shock I think it will continue to grow."
He said the recent reduction in government support for rural buyers and vehicles with small engines "had a pretty significant impact" on sales, but there was still plenty of demand.
"There are still people who want cars," Wale said. "I'm confident the market is still going to be pretty solid.
"The rest of the world tries to predict the future with pinpoint accuracy but we just don't bother. Whether growth is going to be ... 6 or 15 percent, it doesn't matter. Underneath, demand is solid."
When asked if General Motors regretted not investing more in China earlier, he said: "Whenever you're trailing a galloping, out-of-control horse you're always behind."
He said even if companies had over-invested by building new factories and networks they wouldn't be exposed for long.
"There's so much demand out there," he said. "If you get ahead of the game you'll have excess capacity for a couple of years, that's it. It's not like the market is declining, economic growth is still going to be solid.
You're not investing only for the future, you're actually ... getting good return on your money."
He said the Cruze sedan was a good example. "We do about 170,000 units a year. You're getting relatively quick returns on your investment. You're not ... having to wait for 10 years to have the market turn up.
"I think if you had it all over again you'd probably double down. You're thinking 'I should have gone harder'. You couldn't, but that's what you would've been saying."
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site...
SHANGHAI AUTO SHOW: China's 'magic' car, powered by a mobility scooter
Two for the price of one: Geely combines electric three-wheeler with a hatchback
Chinese car maker Geely has invented an ingenious vehicle that allows the frail, the disabled or the plain lazy to ride a mobility scooter into the back of it -- then use the same scooter to help power the car.
It's called the McCar and although it has nothing to do with a fast-food burger chain, it does make drive-thru seem like a physical activity by comparison.
The McCar, unveiled at Auto Shanghai yesterday, is about the same size as a Fiat 500 but has a rear hatch with a ramp that enables the driver to ride the three-wheel scooter into position.
Once locked into place, the electric car can access any reserve energy left in the scooter -- or the scooter can be charged by any excess energy in the car.
In a case of 'you scratch my back, and I'll scratch yours', both vehicles can restore energy to their respective battery packs whenever the McCar is driven downhill or under brakes.
Top speed of the fully-electric car is 85km/h and it has a driving range of 150km. Top speed of the scooter is 30km/h, with a range of 30km.
Geely claims the car can be recharged in 20 minutes and the scooter in five minutes when a fast charger is used.
There is also a plug-in hybrid version -- that provides 50km of petrol-free driving before the petrol-engine cuts in. It has a driving range of 600km.
While it's all fine in theory, it is only a concept vehicle for now and not planned for production. There's also no hint on what it might cost.
But given the world's aging population, and China's ambition to be a world leader in electric cars, such a vehicle could hit the road within the next few years.
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site...
Chinese car maker Geely has invented an ingenious vehicle that allows the frail, the disabled or the plain lazy to ride a mobility scooter into the back of it -- then use the same scooter to help power the car.
It's called the McCar and although it has nothing to do with a fast-food burger chain, it does make drive-thru seem like a physical activity by comparison.
The McCar, unveiled at Auto Shanghai yesterday, is about the same size as a Fiat 500 but has a rear hatch with a ramp that enables the driver to ride the three-wheel scooter into position.
Once locked into place, the electric car can access any reserve energy left in the scooter -- or the scooter can be charged by any excess energy in the car.
In a case of 'you scratch my back, and I'll scratch yours', both vehicles can restore energy to their respective battery packs whenever the McCar is driven downhill or under brakes.
Top speed of the fully-electric car is 85km/h and it has a driving range of 150km. Top speed of the scooter is 30km/h, with a range of 30km.
Geely claims the car can be recharged in 20 minutes and the scooter in five minutes when a fast charger is used.
There is also a plug-in hybrid version -- that provides 50km of petrol-free driving before the petrol-engine cuts in. It has a driving range of 600km.
While it's all fine in theory, it is only a concept vehicle for now and not planned for production. There's also no hint on what it might cost.
But given the world's aging population, and China's ambition to be a world leader in electric cars, such a vehicle could hit the road within the next few years.
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site...
SHANGHAI AUTO SHOW: Holden Caprice struggling in China as Buick Park Avenue
Next generation model may not join the Chinese line-up
discount new cars » Get the best price on a new Holden
The next generation of the Holden Caprice may not be exported to China after sales of the current model have slowed dramatically there.
Holden exports the Caprice in body parts and 'kit' form and the car is assembled in China and sold as a Buick Park Avenue.
But the boss of General Motors in China, ex-pat Australian Kevin Wale, says he is unsure if the next model would follow in the current car's tyre tracks.
"It struggles because it's a large car with a large displacement engine. It's been around a while, it's not the newest kid on the block. It's doing a few sales but not huge business," Wale told the Carsales Network at Auto Shanghai yesterday.
Last year GM China sold 3500 Buick Park Avenues but sales have more than halved this year, selling at a rate of 100 vehicles per month.
In Australia, Caprice sales are up by 9.5 per cent in the first three months of this year. But this does not take into account the lack of Statesman sales, since Holden dropped that nameplate late last year.
When Statesman and Caprice sales are combined, Holden's luxury long wheelbase model is down by 18 per cent year-to-date.
It is another reason the North American export deal for the Caprice police cruiser is so important to Holden.
In the meantime, GM China is not committing to repeat the Holden Caprice as a Buick Park Avenue.
When asked if GM China would do the same again, Wale said: "Don't know. It depends on the engines. You really need a lower displacement turbo engine to get into the marketplace … and that's not a natural fit for that size car. We'll look at it ... but it's an unusual [combination]."
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site...
discount new cars » Get the best price on a new Holden
The next generation of the Holden Caprice may not be exported to China after sales of the current model have slowed dramatically there.
Holden exports the Caprice in body parts and 'kit' form and the car is assembled in China and sold as a Buick Park Avenue.
But the boss of General Motors in China, ex-pat Australian Kevin Wale, says he is unsure if the next model would follow in the current car's tyre tracks.
"It struggles because it's a large car with a large displacement engine. It's been around a while, it's not the newest kid on the block. It's doing a few sales but not huge business," Wale told the Carsales Network at Auto Shanghai yesterday.
Last year GM China sold 3500 Buick Park Avenues but sales have more than halved this year, selling at a rate of 100 vehicles per month.
In Australia, Caprice sales are up by 9.5 per cent in the first three months of this year. But this does not take into account the lack of Statesman sales, since Holden dropped that nameplate late last year.
When Statesman and Caprice sales are combined, Holden's luxury long wheelbase model is down by 18 per cent year-to-date.
It is another reason the North American export deal for the Caprice police cruiser is so important to Holden.
In the meantime, GM China is not committing to repeat the Holden Caprice as a Buick Park Avenue.
When asked if GM China would do the same again, Wale said: "Don't know. It depends on the engines. You really need a lower displacement turbo engine to get into the marketplace … and that's not a natural fit for that size car. We'll look at it ... but it's an unusual [combination]."
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site...
Thứ Hai, 12 tháng 3, 2012
SPY PICS: First look at Ford's Escape replacement
The next compact SUV from Ford will go global and will replace the Escape here - but when?
discount new cars » Get the best price on a new Ford
Ford's plans to streamline its compact SUV models in concert with the One Ford strategy are beginning to coalesce. About four months ago the company unveiled its Vertrek concept vehicle at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, but there was some confusion as to whether this vehicle would replace the European Kuga as well as the Escape sold here.
It's now clear that a new production model SUV based on the Vertrek will succeed both Ford's Escape and Kuga models. Our master spy photographers at Car games parazzi have snapped pics of pre-production cars undergoing testing and, according to Carparazzi, the C250, as it is codenamed, will be marketed as the Ford Escape when it goes on sale globally, either at the end of this year or during the first quarter of next year.
In style, the new SUV will follow the general looks of the Vertrek, but Carparazzi advises that the new vehicle won't be far removed in size from the current Escape.
Boxy camouflage at the rear conceals the shallow rake of the D pillars and tailgate for the new vehicle. Tail lights are an angular design, according to Carparazzi. Apparently too, the frontal styling incorporates cues from both the Vertrek and the US market Ford Edge.
The bonnet seems quite high and lends the car a VW Tiguan air. In addition to meeting aerodynamic targets, the frontal styling is undoubtedly aimed at improving on the Kuga's already admirable three-star pedestrian rating -- as determined by Euro NCAP. New pedestrian safety regs in Europe are scheduled for implementation in 2013 and the C250 will be developed with those in mind.
This particular vehicle is believed to be a high-spec 'Sport' or 'Titanium' variant and was riding on alloy wheels wrapped in 235/50 R18 Continental ProContact tyres. Carparazzi has also spotted other pre-production vehicles getting around on steel wheels with lesser tyres.
It's anticipated that the new vehicle, which is based on the C1 platform that also underpins the third-gen Focus, will launch globally from very late this year or during the first quarter of 2012.
Rumours that have reached Carparazzi's ears suggest that the new SUV will do away with V6 engines and rely instead on a 2.5-litre four, with an EcoBoost alternative for high-end models. At this stage it's unknown whether the forced-induction and direct-injection engine chosen for this application will displace 2.0 litres or 1.6. In line with Ford's commitment to hybrid-drive technology, there will be a petrol/electric model available not long after the vehicle is launched.
There's little word as yet concerning how the new SUV will be handled when it arrives in Australia. It will replace a car that has been on sale for a long time and is well overdue for replacement, but precisely when the new model will arrive here remains uncertain. The Carsales Network contacted Ford Australia's Product Communications Manager for SUVs and LCVs, Peter Fadeyev for further comment. In response, he said that the name for the new SUV was "yet to be determined" and "timing of its arrival in Australia is currently unknown".
"The usual process of developing the production car is well under way, but we're some way off from knowing when the car will be launched in Australia."
"Obviously the North American and European markets will be keen to secure that model first."
-- with Carparazzi
discount new cars » Get the best price on a new Ford
Ford's plans to streamline its compact SUV models in concert with the One Ford strategy are beginning to coalesce. About four months ago the company unveiled its Vertrek concept vehicle at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, but there was some confusion as to whether this vehicle would replace the European Kuga as well as the Escape sold here.
It's now clear that a new production model SUV based on the Vertrek will succeed both Ford's Escape and Kuga models. Our master spy photographers at Car games parazzi have snapped pics of pre-production cars undergoing testing and, according to Carparazzi, the C250, as it is codenamed, will be marketed as the Ford Escape when it goes on sale globally, either at the end of this year or during the first quarter of next year.
In style, the new SUV will follow the general looks of the Vertrek, but Carparazzi advises that the new vehicle won't be far removed in size from the current Escape.
Boxy camouflage at the rear conceals the shallow rake of the D pillars and tailgate for the new vehicle. Tail lights are an angular design, according to Carparazzi. Apparently too, the frontal styling incorporates cues from both the Vertrek and the US market Ford Edge.
The bonnet seems quite high and lends the car a VW Tiguan air. In addition to meeting aerodynamic targets, the frontal styling is undoubtedly aimed at improving on the Kuga's already admirable three-star pedestrian rating -- as determined by Euro NCAP. New pedestrian safety regs in Europe are scheduled for implementation in 2013 and the C250 will be developed with those in mind.
This particular vehicle is believed to be a high-spec 'Sport' or 'Titanium' variant and was riding on alloy wheels wrapped in 235/50 R18 Continental ProContact tyres. Carparazzi has also spotted other pre-production vehicles getting around on steel wheels with lesser tyres.
It's anticipated that the new vehicle, which is based on the C1 platform that also underpins the third-gen Focus, will launch globally from very late this year or during the first quarter of 2012.
Rumours that have reached Carparazzi's ears suggest that the new SUV will do away with V6 engines and rely instead on a 2.5-litre four, with an EcoBoost alternative for high-end models. At this stage it's unknown whether the forced-induction and direct-injection engine chosen for this application will displace 2.0 litres or 1.6. In line with Ford's commitment to hybrid-drive technology, there will be a petrol/electric model available not long after the vehicle is launched.
There's little word as yet concerning how the new SUV will be handled when it arrives in Australia. It will replace a car that has been on sale for a long time and is well overdue for replacement, but precisely when the new model will arrive here remains uncertain. The Carsales Network contacted Ford Australia's Product Communications Manager for SUVs and LCVs, Peter Fadeyev for further comment. In response, he said that the name for the new SUV was "yet to be determined" and "timing of its arrival in Australia is currently unknown".
"The usual process of developing the production car is well under way, but we're some way off from knowing when the car will be launched in Australia."
"Obviously the North American and European markets will be keen to secure that model first."
-- with Carparazzi
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