Land Rover Concept Photo Leaked Ahead of Detroit Show

Further to the official release of a teaser photo at September's Frankfurt Show, this is the first new shot of a Land Rover concept car previewing the firm's upcoming production model coupe SUV, set to tackle the emerging coupe crossover SUV market. The official lone photo comes courtesy of reader 'Jay', with the car set to debut at Detroit in January.
Confirming earlier reports by magazines, the car will get just two doors, bucking the recent trend for high-track four-door coupes. Seating four in a panoramic sunroof-lit light but coseted interior, the concept car favours a streamlined, dynamic style with a sloped roofline over cargo space and versatility in all but off-road capability.
The production version of the new concept car is speculated to hit the market in 2011 to join forthcoming coupe SUV models due from BMW, Audi and VW.

Suzuki A-Star Concept - Next Global Car

Built in India

Today Suzuki has announced plans for a new production hub in India and along with expansion plans Suzuki also presents the new A-Star Concept, destined to become Suzuki's new compact global car.

The A-Star will be shown to the public at the Ninth New Delhi Auto Show in January, but we can bring you some sketches of the compact car. The car will be produced in India and exported to Europe and beyond and will be Euro 5 compliant, which leads us to believe this may just be the new Suzuki Alto which is scheduled for a Geneva debut in March.

India is an important market for Suzuki, outselling Japan in the first half of 2007, and the Murati Suzuki partnership (Indian government and Suzuki) will be capable of producing 1 million units by 2010/2011.

Ford Mustang Giugiaro Concept

The 2005 Ford Mustang captured the hearts and minds of millions of fans and future owners when the all-new model debuted. But the proportions and design of Ford’s first purpose-built muscle car in 30-plus years caught the eyes and sparked the imaginations of a pair of the world’s leading coachbuilders in Italy as well.

“When we saw the new Mustang, we knew two things: It was the best we’d seen since the original, and we had to get our hands on one,” said Fabrizio Giugiaro, styling director of Italdesign – Giugiaro S.P.A. “We still believe it’s important to show the automotive world pure exercises in style that interpret key models reflecting the history and image of important brands.”

So in early 2005, Giugiaro pitched J Mays, Ford Motor Company’s group vice president, Design and chief creative officer, on his idea to do an Italian job on the beloved Mustang. The result: Mustang by Giugiaro – a one-of-a-kind concept powered by Ford Racing technologies, marking the Italian coachbuilder’s first reveal at the inaugural November Los Angeles Auto Show.

“It seemed only fitting,” said Mays. “This design study reinforces the global appeal of Mustang, yet it’s right at home in L.A. – America’s most enthusiastic performance and muscle car market. Plus, design icon Giorgetto Giugairo’s offer to work his magic on Mustang alongside his son underscores the timelessness allure of Ford’s most iconic car.”

Design aficionados will remember that the senior Giugiaro – who last year celebrated his 50 th anniversary in the business by designing a custom-made Ferrari, the GG50 – created the 1965 Bertone Mustang. The car, which was unmistakably Italian in its interpretation, became the first European-styled car to make its international debut in America following the end of World War II.

The senior Giugiaro’s portfolio includes concept and production designs for nearly every automaker in the world – from Fiat, Alfa Romeo and Volkswagen to Mazda, Lotus and Bugatti. Since joining ItalDesign, the family firm, in 1990, Fabrizio Giugiaro has helped deliver key global designs as well, but American automotive icons have long captured his attention. He designed the Chevrolet Corvette Moray, unveiled in early 2003, and was eager to expand the collection of Giugiaro-interpreted American metal.

Fabrizio Giugiaro led the 2-D design process on the Mustang by Giugiaro concept, allowing him to deliver a complete exterior model from the family’s Turin, Italy, studios in just four months. Visually, the Mustang by Giugiaro appears more compact than the production car, thanks to a reduction of the rear overhang and a signature Giugiaro “trick” of tapering the angles on the car to the limit of its mechanical outlines.

Still, the Italian version of America’s most popular muscle car hasn’t lost any of its swagger. The vibrant orange concept is wider than the production version. The Giugiaros added 30 millimeters to the front, gradually expanding the width by a full 80 millimeters toward the rear, which is typical in Italian design.

With its longer hood and the trunk barely visible, the car looks more of a fastback in side view. But details throughout reinforce the freedom and rebellion synonymous with Mustang. Fabrizio Giugiaro’s favorites include:

The interior – featuring a dramatic instrument panel that sweeps the width of the car; circular gauges that project from behind the steering wheel; dark brown horsehide-covered headrests with horse logo accents; and seat cushions and backrests elaborately upholstered in dark brown mottled horse hides.

The single curved glass panel that bridges the windshield and rear window, serving as the concept’s roof. Produced by Solutia of Detroit, the panel is made from a special type of crystal that filters out 100 percent of UVA rays while providing unfettered vista views. Its dramatic doors, which are hinged at the base of the upright A-pillar and open vertically at the touch of a button. Bespoke taillights, which are three separate elements as found on the 1964 Mustang – but reinterpreted into a more dramatic arrow shape that links to the louver panels that replace the rear side windows.

The visible curl that sweeps into the crest of the concept’s carbon fiber fenders, hinting at tail fins that defined American cars of the ‘50s. The sporting-but-elegant unique 20-inch rims, fitted with 275/40 tires on the front and larger 315/35 tires on the rear.

As its wheels and tires suggest, the Mustang by Giugiaro is more than just a tribute to Mustang design. It also is an exclamation of the car’s heritage of performance. The concept features a powertrain and chassis enhanced in conjunction with Ford Racing – which is responsible for Ford Motor Company motorsports development and operations.

Ford Racing’s efforts include the development and sale of a race-prepared version of the Mustang, called the FR500C, for the Grand-Am KONI Challenge Series. In its first season alone, the FR500C scored five wins in the 2005 GS Class, including the manufacturers’ championship, in which Mustang bested other production-based sports cars, including the BMW M3 and Porsche 911.

This Mustang, a turn-key race car sold to privateers, provided the inspiration for the Mustang by Giugiaro concept’s performance and handling attributes.

Ford Racing improved on the already-robust 300 horsepower all-aluminum 4.6-liter 3-valve V-8 engine in the production Mustang GT by adding an intercooled twin-screw supercharger for the new concept. Additional improvements include fuel injectors from the Ford GT and a unique engine calibration. Engine air intake is increased with a larger 95 mm mass air meter and a conical air filter. Exhaust performance is enhanced with new Ford Racing mufflers and an X-pipe.

The powertrain upgrades deliver an estimated 500 horsepower, complete with a boost level of 11 psi from the Ford Racing supercharger. A high-efficiency Ford Racing aluminum radiator provides increased cooling capability to accompany the extra 200 horsepower provided under hood.

Under the car, the FR500C-inspired chassis tuning is accomplished with a tailored Ford Racing Handling Pack. This package, available through Ford Racing for the Mustang GT, adds new Dynamic-tuned dampers, lowering springs and anti-sway bars. The changes give the car a lower stance while sharpening handling response. The car rides approximately 1.5 inches lower than the production Mustang GT.

“The Mustang by Giugiaro drives as good as it looks,” said Fabrizio Giugiaro. “After taking it to the limits on streets outside of Turin, I can honestly say this car was well worth the 30,000 hours of blood, sweat and tears that we invested to create a modern performance classic.”

Honda Pilot Prototype at 2008 NAIAS

Alongside CR-Z and FCX Concepts

Honda will be bringing a pilot version of their next-generation Pilot to Detroit for the 2008 North American International Auto Show. And we have a sketch to prove it. Alongside the Pilot Prototype we will be able to feast our eyes on the CR-Z and FCX Concepts.

The next generation Honda Pilot will emphasize authentic SUV styling, clever interior packaging, advanced safety features, improved fuel efficiency and convenience. The Pilot prototype will be displaying some of these design cues.

Honda CR-Z Concept

Honda FCX Clarity

Ford Mustang Facelift Spied

Convertible spied

Ford is readying a facelift for its Mustang range which is set for a 2009 or 2010 unveiling while Dodge is getting ready (and building tension) to launch their own 'classic' new muscle car.

The facelift comes mid-cycle for the pony muscle car, and judging from the amount of camouflage the facelift will consist of an entirely new front and rear fascia, including new grille, headlamps and taillights. But despite early hopes, it now seems unlikely that Ford has had much inspiration from the Giugiaro Mustang.

The interior will be touched up as well, but the spyphotographer who accidentally ran into this prototype while making a U-turn was unable to capture proof of this on (digital) film.

Audi R8 Ignition Sculpture: More Details

Audi will be participating in Design Miami/ 2006 - the global forum for collecting, exhibiting, discussing and creating design, as its exclusive automotive sponsor. As such Audi will present the “R8 Ignition” installation, showingcasing Audi’s new R8 sports car.

From 7th to 10th December the most influential designers, gallery owners, dealers and collectors will meet in the Miami Design District assess the latest trends in the world of design. Miami has long been one of the world’s leading trendsetting metropolises and Design Miami/ 2006 has become one of the groundbreaking gatherings of top designers.

Audi has long been recognized as a trendsetter in automotive design. The R8, the brand’s first mid-engined model, is a prime example, illustrating the sports car design of the next generation with its fascinating contrast between calm and flowing surfaces and elegance and technology.

Audi goes one step further at “Design Miami/ 2006” with the “R8 Ignition” installation. “Our new sports car will become part of the design and art scene by way of an installation that expresses the ultimate sportiness of the model in a sophisticated, artistic way”, says Walter de’Silva, Head of Design for the Audi brand group.

“Being progressive means innovation competence both in terms of technology and in pioneering design. Audi utilizes these competences to great effect and communicates them effectively, even among design and art connoisseurs”, comments Ralph Weyler, Board Member for Marketing and Sales at AUDI AG.

The moment when power is created

Located in the atrium of the Moore Building, Audi will showcase its progressive approach in Miami: with the “R8 Ignition” installation, incorporated in the timber-frame construction of the historical warehouse, the new Audi R8 metamorphoses from a perfectly formed design object to an artistic unicum.

The ignition, the “big bang” of dynamism, the moment when power is created and transformed into motion – this is the theme of the approximately ten-meter-high installation. It symbolizes the dynamism of the R8, recently presented at the Paris Motor Show: teardrop-shaped arrows aimed at the silver sports car shoot across the room, expressing motion and speed and convey some of the potency of the sports car.

The R8 is the focal point and dynamic cell of this special, 64-square-metre installation. Thanks to its size – and most importantly the height of the exhibition hall – there are new perspectives and angles for the visitor from every vantage point. An unusual perspective is provided by the view of the R8 from the third floor. The heart of the sports car is then visible through the glass bonnet, a high-speed eight-cylinder engine with an output of 420 hp.

“We have created an unmistakable structure around the new super sports car from Audi, which will ensure that all visitors are captivated by the R8”, says Bernhard Neumann, Head of International Exhibitions at AUDI AG, impressed by the sculpture which was conceived in conjunction with Mutabor brand experience design and the Schmidhuber & Partner firm of architects. Berlin video-jockeys BAUHOUSE developed a special sound collage for the sound elements of the exhibit.

Ambra Medda, Director and Co-Founder, said: “Design Miami/ 2006 is proud to have Audi come on board as its exclusive automotive sponsor. Audi, as a company, has always been dedicated to the exploration and use of good design, which is in keeping with the principles and spirit of Design Miami/. We are thrilled to be working with Audi and to have ‘R8 Ignition’ in Design Miami/ 2006.”

Miami – the trendsetting metropolis

In recent years Miami has become one of the magnets for the international arts scene and design culture. An entire city district in the north of downtown, only ten minutes away from South Beach, is now known as the Design District. And rightly so, for in just a decade or so the previously gloomy area has blossomed into a colorful trendsetter in the world of design. Today over 100 galleries and showrooms attract artists and designers, and of course customers interested in art and design, from all over the world.

Since 2002, the arts scene in Florida’s trendsetting metropolis has been enhanced by “Art Basel Miami Beach”. Initially a spin-off from the renowned Swiss art fair, the “ABMB” has emerged to be on a par with the original in Basel in terms of significance and appeal: in early December more than 200 galleries will present 1500 artists at numerous exhibitions and parties.

Meanwhile the creators and enthusiasts of innovative design have also discovered Miami as a leading centre for fairs and exhibitions: the sister event to the “ABMB”, entitled simply “Design Miami/ 2006”, will be held from 7th to 10th December. This shows that the international scene regards Miami as one of the most important forums for fresh ideas from the realms of interior design, lifestyle, furnishings and product design. In terms of artistic relevance the unconventional exhibition offshoot has overtaken the original fair, “Art Basel Miami Beach” in only its second year.

Audi as part of the design scene

Audi will be the first automotive manufacturer to be an exhibitor in Miami, where the “R8 Ignition” installation will be presented, with the new Audi R8 sports car as its core theme. “We are appearing at Design Miami/ 2006 with an extraordinary exhibit within this incredible context as an element of the international design scene”, says Bernhard Neumann, Head of International Exhibitions at AUDI AG, explaining the significance of this event.

Unlike most companies that function solely as financial partners at events of this kind, the brand with the four rings is itself providing creative input. At this year’s “Design Annual” in Frankfurt, Audi was the only automotive brand present as an exhibitor. Here too, Audi caused a sensation with its unusual concept: The exhibition stand formed a giant loft for the new Audi TT Coupé. “The TT in particular, as a design icon and technological highlight, belongs as much in a design show as it does in a motor show”, says Bernhard Neumann.

This progressive idea will be continued by the Ingolstadt car company at “Design Miami/ 2006” in a highly impressive way: “The brief was: an exceptional car at an exceptional event. The solution was an equally exceptional installation that unites automobile and event through its form”. This was the ambitious project goal as defined by Neumann.

About Design Miami

Design Miami/ is a global forum for collecting, exhibiting, discussing and creating design. With week-long annual shows presented in conjunction with the Art Basel fairs in Miami, Florida and Basel, Switzerland, Design Miami/ brings together the world's most influential dealers, designers, collectors, curators and critics to celebrate and explore the ever-shifting boundaries of design.

Mercedes C-Class Estate by Lorinser

305 hp T model

Mercedes' T model stationwagon is as old as Lorinser. Thirty years along the line Lorinser fine tunes the latest T model, the new C-Class Estate.

Lorinser distinguishes their version from the original with its rear apron with horizontal honeycomb grill, flanked by two specially designed muffler pipes which give the T model an unexpected contour. Down the side you find Lorinser's wide fenders with large air inlets (which wrap 19 inch Lorinser RS8 wheels in turbine design) and straight-line side skirts while in front the Winnenden tuning company installed a new honeycomb sport grille.

Lorinser also lowered the car with a new suspension kit while engine upgrades are available for most diesel and Otto engiens.

model	power	torque
C 200	135 kW / 184 hp > 160 kW / 218 hp	250 Nm > 295 Nm
C 350	200 kW / 272 hp > 224 kW / 305 hp	350 Nm > 380 Nm
C 200 CDI	110 kW / 136 hp > 115 kW / 156 hp	270 Nm > 360 Nm
C 220 CDI	125 kW / 170 hp > 140 kW / 191 hp	400 Nm > 480 Nm
C 320 CDI	165 kW / 224 hp > 192 kW / 261 hp	510 Nm > 580 Nm

Press Release

In 1977, the official birth year of Sportservice Lorinser, Mercedes first presented a station wagon named T and, thereby, introduced the first true luxury vehicle in this segment. Who knew that, in 2007, Lorinser would transform this practical body shape into an athletic and muscular powerhouse: the brand new, Lorinser-tuned T model of the C-Class.

This vehicle, which has a distinctly brawnier rear than its predecessor, distinguishes itself by the tuning company’s rear apron with horizontal honeycomb grill. Thanks to its three-dimensional shape and cleverly selected contour edges, this upgraded C-Class model can boast unexpectedly dynamic lines. Moreover, the two rear muffler pipes with their sophisticated design and flush fit provide the C-Class with an acoustic arsenal that is second to none. Similarly distinctive design elements from Lorinser’s current Haute Couture of vehicle bodies are the wide fenders with their large air inlets, which guide hot exhaust air away from the brakes and bear a striking resemblance to the flared nostrils of a race horse. However, the first thing the driver in front of you will notice is the striking front apron which the Winnenden tuning company fitted with a honeycomb sport grill.

Thanks to the Lorinser suspension lowering kit, this beefier T model will edge its way into the rear-view mirror of the driver in front – just above the asphalt. How quickly it approaches is determined by the question if the customer installed a Lorinser performance enhancement, which is available for most Diesel and Otto engines.

An upgrade is available for the C 200 Kompressor model which boosts the vehicle’s performance from 135 kW/184 hp to 160 kW/218 hp. This extra power increases the torque from 250 Nm to 295 Nm. This added power is achieved by installing a modified engine control unit along with altered belt pulleys, drive belts and a different air filter.

The C 350 with its six-cylinder V engine can also be optimised. This model also features modified camshafts. The performance is increased from 200 kW/272 hp to 224 kW/305 hp, while the torque jumps from 350 Nm to astounding 380 Nm.

The Lorinser Diesel Modules widen the range of options for self-igniting engines even further. These modules give the C 200 CDI a power treatment raising the performance of the vehicle from 110 kW/136 hp to 115 kW/156 hp, which translates into a torque boost from 270 Nm to 360 Nm. With the aid of the Lorinser Diesel Modules the C 220 CDI’s standard performance is enhanced from 125 kW/170 hp to 140 kW/191 hp and a whopping 480 Nm of torque (standard: 400 Nm). The top of this line of upgraded Diesel vehicles is the C 320 CDI, which features a standard performance of 165 kW/224 hp and a maximum torque of 510 Nm. Lorinser’s engineers managed to elicit 192 kW/261 hp and 580 Nm from this top-notch engine.

The capabilities of this power pack are underlined visually by straight-line side skirts that give the vehicle a high-tech appearance and elegantly emphasise the straightforward, yet well-proportioned contours of the T model’s body. The central and distinctive design elements of this model are its five gill-like air inlets. The side skirts visually connect the wheel arches which are dominated by single-part, 8.5x19 inch Lorinser RS8 rims in turbine design. Of course, Sportservice Lorinser also carries a wide range of other attractively designed rims, for the product range of the Winnenden tuning company is just as versatile as the C-Class model T.

Mazda Furai Concept and RX-8 Facelift at NAIAS

World Debut at 2008 North American International Auto Show

Yesterday some spy photos of the Mazda RX-8 Facelift caused some stirs, many major internet car sites claimed this was the next generation RX-8 (RX-9?). But we knew better (just to make up for a recent cock-up on our end) and today confirmation came that it was indeed the 2009 facelifted RX-8, set for a Detroit debut and on sale later in the year.

The bigger story for Detroit will be the Mazda Furai Concept (translates as 'Sound of the Wind', the exhaust goes Whoo Whoo). The Furai takes Mazda's Nagare design language a step further again, this time into a concept car based on an American Le Mans Series race car. The Furai is built on the C65 chassis (used in ALMS two years ago) and uses the 450 hp three-rotor rotary engine.

Franz von Holzhausen, Mazda’s North American director of design said: “Furai purposely blurs boundaries that have traditionally distinguished street cars from track cars.” Sounds like the Caparo T1 beat them to the punch.

Press Release

Mazda Motor Corporation will showcase the world premieres of the Mazda Furai concept vehicle and the heavily revised new Mazda RX-8 sports car at the 2008 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS), to be held in Detroit from Sunday, January 13 through Sunday, January 27, 2008. On the heels of its show-stopping debut at the 2007 Tokyo Motor Show in October, the Mazda Taiki concept vehicle also will make its North American debut, the first time it has been shown outside Japan. Additionally, Mazda will have a special display of racecars on its stand during the press days, and the full lineup of production cars for consumers to sample on the public days.

All attending media are invited to the company's formal unveiling on the Mazda show stand, scheduled at 13:45 p.m. on Monday, January 14, 2008.

Mazda Furai –‘Sound of the wind’

Inspired by the fact that, on any given weekend, there are more Mazdas and Mazda-powered cars road-raced in the United States than any other brand, the Mazda Furai is the sort of car that could only come from a company that incorporates the “Soul of a Sports Car” into everything it builds, but with an eye toward the future and the environment through the use of cellulosic ethanol ?E100?produced by British Petroleum (BP).

Furai takes Mazda’s unique Nagare (Japanese for “flow”) design language a step further as it is translated into a concept car based on an American Le Mans Series (ALMS) racing car. The car utilizes the Courage C65 chassis the company campaigned in the ALMS series only two seasons ago, and the 450-hp three-rotor rotary engine that distinguishes it from anything else on the track.

Says Franz von Holzhausen, Mazda’s North American director of design, “Furai purposely blurs boundaries that have traditionally distinguished street cars from track cars. Historically, there has been a gap between single-purpose racecars and street-legal models — commonly called supercars — that emulate the real racers on the road. Furai bridges that gap like no car has ever done before.”

Mazda’s critically acclaimed Nagare design language describes the flow of water, air, people or things moving in one direction. Mazda Nagare is flow, with an insightful and spirited styling, which, in Mazda Furai, invokes a raw, unfettered desire to possess everything this car represents.

New Mazda RX-8

Sporting a freshened design, improved handling, acceleration, quality and features, the new Mazda RX-8 continues to be a “Sports Car like no other,” and shows that the rotary engine is still an important part of Mazda’s future.

Since its launch in 2003, the Mazda RX-8 has been hailed as a genuine sports car, but with a totally new, four-door, four-seat format that delivers sports car values, passenger comfort and driving pleasure. Powered by the world’s only mass-produced rotary engine, RX-8 is the spiritual successor to the 1967 Cosmo 110S, the world’s first twin-rotor production car. With almost two-million rotary engines sold, and the company’s legendary win at the 1991 24 Hours of Le Mans – the only Japanese brand to ever win the endurance racing classic – the rotary engine is the sole preserve of Mazda.

First U.S. Street Legal Koenigsegg Delivered

Las Vegas is a difficult place to make heads turn. What with the flashing lights, the gambling, and the lasciviousness, the average person's id explodes upon touchdown at McCarran Airport. It takes something really special to distract people in Sin City away from their base desires, which may be the reason why the only Koenigsegg dealership in America is based at the Caesars Palace in Las Vegas.

Touching down on American soil for the first time last year at the same place where the late Evel Knievel wiped out while trying to jump monolithic fountains on a motorcycle, a U.S. spec Koenigsegg CCX was received by Exotic Cars at Caesars over the weekend.
Employees at the dealership were so excited to finally get the CCX after over a year waiting, that they flocked to the showroom floor on Saturday just to take a look. "It is beautiful," said one employee, making the understatement of the year.
At $935,000, hopefully the new owner will have some more positive things to say about the car. The Swedish automaker's first American customer will pick up the supercar in the coming weeks.

More than 10 vehicles have been ordered. New customers will have to wait to own the CCX for about a year. With a top speed of 245 mph, the CCX goes 0-62 mph in 3.2 seconds, and hits 100 mph in 7.7 seconds.

Aston Martin Unveils V12 Vantage RS

Aston Martin has built a special-edition V12 Vantage RS Concept car capable of going 0-100 km/h in 4.0 seconds, the company announced yesterday. Unveiled at the opening of their design center in Gaydon, Aston CEO Ulrich Bez told onlookers the 600 horsepower concept car reaches 160 kmh in about 8.5 seconds. Peak horsepower is achieved at 6250rpm, while 509 ft-lb of torque (690Nm) comes at 5000rpm.

The past two days has brought us a great deal of news from Aston Martin. After opening their new design center, they forged a partnership with Danish luxe electronics maker Bang & Olufsen. Capping off the news was the announcement that the DBS will remain as James Bond's car of choice in next November's latest Bond film.

This new V12 Vantage RS concept has a power-to-weight ratio of 375 horsepower per ton, with all the power coming from their 6.0 liter V12 engine. Based on the V8 Vantage coupe, Bez told his audience that Aston plans to continue building models like the RS concept to appeal to the demands of their customers and fan base.

“With our dedicated production facilities, our own engine plant, our own unique vehicle architecture and now a dedicated design studio, we have the ideal framework to bring new models such as this to market and to further establish Aston Martin as the ultimate independent luxury sports car company,” Bez said.

Taking some cues from the DBS, a carbon fibre bonnet and trunk lid have helped bring the weight of this vehicle down below 1600 kg. The company has included an automatic, deployable spoiler to increase rear down force at high speeds. Incorporated into the front bumper are cooling ducts for the carbon ceramic brakes, as well as a carbon fibre splitter to help balance down force.

Aston Martin's latest advanced-stage concept also has "a dry sump lubrication system, tuned length exhaust manifolds, forged pistons and steel con-rods, revised lift and duration camshafts and modified cylinder heads," according to a press release.

No mention of top speed was made, but rumor has it could be over 200 mph.

We full well expect to see the public unveiling of the Aston Martin V12 Vantage RS on the 2008 auto show circuit, beginning this January in Detroit.

Press Release

Aston Martin Unveils New Performance Concept Car

At the official opening of Aston Martin’s first ever dedicated design centre in Gaydon, Warwickshire, on Tuesday 11 December, Dr Ulrich Bez, Chief Executive Officer, thrilled an audience of more than seven hundred VIP guests with a surprise unveiling of a stunning new 600bhp performance concept car; the V12 Vantage RS.
The V12 Vantage RS concept is based on Aston Martin’s critically acclaimed V8 Vantage coupe, but the company’s design and engineering team have fully exploited the design flexibility of their unique VH architecture and the motor sport development of their 6.0 litre V12 engine to create a dramatic and production feasible concept car focussed on extreme performance and dynamics.
In a speech to the assembled guests, Ulrich Bez said: “Over the last five years, we have established a reputation for presenting fully functional, feasible concept cars, and the V12 Vantage RS is no exception. We will listen with interest to feedback on this concept and, as ever, if there is sufficient demand then we will seriously consider a low volume production run in the near future with a price that will reflect the exclusivity of the car.
“With our dedicated production facilities, our own engine plant, our own unique vehicle architecture and now a dedicated design studio, we have the ideal framework to bring new models such as this to market and to further establish Aston Martin as the ultimate independent luxury sports car company.”

Although the 600bhp power output of the V12 Vantage RS concept will be the focus of attention, just as significant is the level of weight reduction achieved by Aston Martin’s engineering team. With a kerb weight of less than 1600kg, the RS concept underlines Aston Martin’s continued commitment to intelligent use of materials and weight reduction as a means of achieving improved efficiency and performance. In common with the recently launched DBS, the bonnet and trunk lid are moulded in carbon fibre and the concept also adopts motor sport-inspired carbon ceramic brake discs.
The subtly aggressive exterior appearance is driven by function. The dramatic bonnet louvres extract air from the fully ducted cooling pack and the trunk lid features a deployable spoiler that rises automatically at high speeds to increase rear down force. The front bumper features cooling ducts for the carbon ceramic brakes and a carbon fibre splitter to balance down force.
Director of Design, Marek Reichman, commented: “Much of Aston Martin’s recent success has come from the ability of our designers and engineers to work hand-in-hand to optimise form and function. Our new dedicated design centre will take this process to a new level and I am delighted that the V12 Vantage RS is the first car to stand on the turntable in the studio.”
The 600bhp 6.0 litre engine featured in the V12 Vantage RS concept has benefited directly from the race development of this acclaimed power unit. It features a dry sump lubrication system, tuned length exhaust manifolds, forged pistons and steel con-rods, revised lift and duration camshafts and modified cylinder heads. Peak power is achieved at 6250rpm and peak torque of 690Nm is at 5000rpm.
With a power-to-weight ratio of over 375bhp per ton, the V12 Vantage RS concept is the fastest accelerating road car ever built by the company, capable of reaching 62mph (100km/h) from rest in 4.0 seconds and 100mph (160km/h) in just 8.5 seconds.
The unveiling of the Aston Martin V12 Vantage RS concept concludes a remarkable year of new product announcements for the British manufacturer. In the last twelve months the company has launched two of the most eagerly anticipated sports cars of the year – the DBS and Vantage Roadster – and announced details of the DB9 LM and V8 Vantage N400 special editions which celebrate the company’s racing successes at Le Mans and the N?rburgring. All of these models now join the award-winning V8 Vantage, DB9 and DB9 Volante models in production at the company’s Gaydon headquarters.

Next Bond Car: Aston Martin DBS

Aston Martin has solidified a deal with MGM/Columbia pictures that will put the Aston Martin DBS in the hands of James Bond one more time. Under the working title "Bond 22," the DBS will make in appearance in its second Bond film in-a-row.

Although Bentley was the manufacturer of choice for Bond in the Ian Flemming novels, Aston Martin will be driven its sixth Bond movie when Bond 22 is released next November. Ford has had the most Bond on-screen time, with models appearing in nine of the 21 films in the series (not including the Mercury and Lincoln used in License to Kill).

Aside from the prestige brought to the brand by having the DBS in another Bond film, the brand recognition that comes with an appearance in one of the movies is invaluable. Casino Royale, released in November 2006, took in nearly $595 million in worldwide box office ticket revenue. This fact, not lost on Aston Martin CEO Ulrch Bez, is of paramount importance to the British automaker's long term marketing strategy.

"Aston Martin is proud of our long association with James Bond," Bez said. He continued to talk about the association he hopes Bond viewers will build between the secret agent and the luxury car brand, pointing out the road and track capabilities of Aston made cars.

Also worth mentioning is the ability of the DBS as a stunt car. Aston Martin has the dubious honor of being in the Guiness Book of World Records for "Most Cannon Rolls In A Car" after stuntman Adam Kirley rolled the DBS seven times in a single take for Casino.

"The DBS has its own unique character which equals that of James Bond. It is explosive power in a black tie."

Press Release

Bond drives DBS again
Gaydon, December 10th 2007: Aston Martin announced today that their new flagship model, the DBS, will once again be driven by James Bond (DANIEL CRAIG) in the next 007 film to be produced by Michael G Wilson and Barbara Broccoli for EON Productions, and directed by Marc Forster.
The Aston Martin DBS made its first public appearance in Casino Royale when it smashed its way into the Guinness World Record books for ‘The Most Cannon Rolls In A Car’. The record-breaking stunt saw stuntman Adam Kirley taking the helm of Bond’s famous Aston Martin. The stunt proved one of the most spectacular in movie history when he rolled the DBS an amazing seven times.
Aston Martin Chief Executive Officer, Dr Ulrich Bez, said: “Aston Martin is proud of our long association with James Bond. The DBS has its own unique character which equals that of James Bond. It is explosive power in a black tie. It is the perfect car for James Bond as it delivers the complete driving experience and bridges the gap between our road and track cars – the DB9 and DBR9. It is equally at home on a twisting mountain circuit as on the open road and we are all very excited at the prospect of seeing it on the big screen again.”
BOND 22 (working title) is scheduled for international theatrical release in November 2008.

Wald Mercedes-Benz CL-Class W216

With a public debut at SEMA in November, Wald International, Japan's main tuner of premium vehicles of both Japanese and European marques, has formally released information and mouth watering photos regarding the W216 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class, their newest tuning program. The program consists of a front spoiler, side steps, rear skirt, roof and trunk spoiler, sports fender ducts and exhaust system. Wald has also developed brake system with 6-piston calipers up front and 4-piston in the rear. With orders pouring in from all over the world, deliveries begin January 2008. However, some things are worth the wait. Check out the brain melting photos below.

For more information: Wald International

Hummer HX Concept for Detroit Debut

Designed by three of GM's newest designers, the Hummer HX Concept is an expression in design that reflects the new blood now onboard. The brief of the new team's first assignment was to provide a vision for the future of off-road vehicle design - the product of which, the HX, is a fun, nimble and innovative HUMMER Concept set to debut at Detroit in January.
Under the guidance of HUMMER's design studio director, the trio were given free reign on all but three key elements that define HUMMER proportions - wheelbase, approach and departure angles, and stance. Each was assigned to a graduate designer, with prime focus being to produce a design as iconic as it was fresh as well as a model able to meet consumer expectations of HUMMER off-road capability.
But while drawing on HUMMER's brand heritage, the designers - David Rojas, Min Young Kang and Robert Jablonski - agreed the new vehicle should evolve in a new way to be "contemporary, compact and definitely open air. It came out great," said Jablonski. "We drew inspiration from one another," said Kang, with Rojas adding: "You can see the inspiration from each of our designs in the final concept vehicle".
The HX is in final concept form a HUMMER, fitted with E-85 FlexFuel, that offers open-air driving with off-road spirit. Removable roof panels above the front seats and a removable rear roof assembly allow a modular design changing closed SUV to open SUT.

Press Release

Three Young Designers Shape Future of HUMMER through HX Concept

DETROIT – Scheduled for introduction at the 2008 North American International Auto Show, the HUMMER HX concept reflects the innovative minds of three new GM designers - David Rojas, Min Young Kang and Robert Jablonski - whose first assignment was to provide a vision for the future design of off-road vehicles.

Fresh out of the College for Creative Studies in Detroit, Mich., the designers’ first test in GM was to design a fun, nimble and innovative HUMMER concept.

“HUMMER appeals to young people globally and served as a perfect first assignment for our newest talent,” said Ed Welburn, vice president of global design and product planning. “Today’s graduates from top design schools are ready to hit the ground running. The HUMMER design challenge gave our newest designers an opportunity to sprint.”

The task presented numerous challenges to the new designers, from creating a vehicle for a brand known around the globe for its iconic design, to ensuring the model would live up to the market’s expectation of HUMMER off-road capability.

To help ensure designs were true to the HUMMER brand, these designers were given limited design direction by Carl Zipfel, an ex-professional motocross racer and director of the HUMMER design studio.

“Carl definitely set the tone,” said Rojas. “While he gave us creative liberty and challenged us to develop innovative ideas, he also defined three HUMMER proportions – wheelbase, approach and departure angles, and stance – and assigned one to each of us. It gave us a chance to collaborate, but also take our own direction.”

While sketching and sculpting together in the HUMMER studio, these recent graduates drew upon the creative energy of each other, further improving their individual designs, as well as that of the final concept.

“We drew inspiration from one another,” said Kang. “As you’re designing and sketching you try to absorb what the other designer is doing and try to make it better.”

David, Min Young and Robert’s collaboration inspired the HUMMER HX concept, which presents extraordinary efficiency without sacrificing the unique essence of the HUMMER brand, the world’s most capable off-road vehicles.

“While we took inspiration from the HUMMER heritage and DNA, we each wanted to evolve it in a new way,” said Jablonski. “We agreed it should be contemporary, compact and definitely open air. It came out great.”

After three months of sketching and sculpting theme work for the new HUMMER concept, each designer had the opportunity to present scale clay models to Bob Lutz, GM vice chairman and Ed Welburn, who chose which design would ultimately become the HX concept.

In its final concept form, the E-85 FlexFuel capable HUMMER HX embodies the off road spirit of HUMMER in a fully customizable package. The HX offers an open-air driving experience via a pair of removable roof panels above the driver and front passenger and a modular, removable rear roof assembly enabling a quick conversion from closed vehicle to open vehicle SUT. It also features a slant back assembly and removable doors and fender flairs.

“Working as a team, you realize it’s more than one person influencing the vehicle,” said Rojas. “You can see the inspiration from each of our designs in the final concept vehicle. We’re all proud to have the chance to see our sketches become reality.”

Ferrari 575 GTZ Concept by Zagato

Zagato Villa d'Este 2006

Yushiyuki Hayashi is a famous Japanese car collector, who owns numerous cars of great historical value, including several Ferraris such as the 166MM, the 250 Spider California, two Daytonas – a coupé and a spider – and the Enzo.

In the classic tradition of the keen purchaser of exclusive cars who stimulated the creativeness of Italian coachbuilders in the 1950s and 1960s, Yushiyuki Hayashi asked Zagato if it would be possible to create a body for his 575M, in the style of the famous 250GTZ berlinetta.

When Zagato received this request, it informed Ferrari of the project, which would be a good opportunity to celebrate the model’s anniversary, and then created a car that harked back to the 250 GTZ, built around the Ferrari 575.

Like its forebear, the 575 GTZ has an all-aluminium body, and, as a tribute to Ferrari and to two-seater Italian sports cars, it has joined the exclusive group of cars that are the fruit of the tradition of custom-built cars.

Like the 250 GTZ, it sports two-tone paintwork with styling cues and volumes that explicitly refer back to the 1950s, and sublimates the character of the many cars built by Zagato to clothe original engineering, with the pure style of traditional sports cars.

For Zagato, the project represented an opportunity to celebrate the 50^th anniversary of the Ferrari 250 GTZ of 1956, one of the most outstanding GT cars, which has already gone down in history.

The model, which was also commissioned by a gentleman driver and collector, in the best Zagato tradition, is a sublime synthesis of prestige and performance, elegance and sportiness, to the point that it can boast the highest value of any car in the luxury period sports car market. The 250 GTZ has won numerous competitions and concours d’élégance, and it represents a dream come true, because experts and fans consider it one of the most beautiful cars in the world.

The new 575 GTZ has the Ferrari prancing horse on its bonnet and the Z of Zagato on its side, an expression of eternal Italian excellence in its form and content. It is a winning combination, linking the most powerful, famous engineering in the world with the most refined, fascinating sporting style, both made strictly in Italy.

The concept of sporty elegance, functional design that does not merely follow the trend of the moment but strives for pure performance, and the ultra-light aluminium body are Zagato’s strengths which become a universally recognised value.

Just as in the 1956, the 250GTZ was showed at the most important concours d’elegance, 50 years later, the 575 GTZ will be presented in a world premier at Villa D’Este Concours D’Elegance, Cernobbio (Italy) April 22 ^th -24^th.