Toyota Yaris Hybrid R Concept

Making its World Premiere at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show, the Toyota Yaris Hybrid-R concept car combines the advanced technology of the compact volume seller Toyota Yaris Hybrid with high-performance engineering inspired by Toyota's racing prototype, the TS030 Hybrid, which participated at Le Mans and in the World Endurance Championship.

The Toyota Yaris Hybrid-R features a more aggressive and emotional interpretation of the design language that characterises recent Toyota models. The Keen Look and Under Priority design philosophy is reinforced by the adoption of newly designed headlights, a wider front grille and black and blue details that contrast with the white body colour.

The specific bumper design incorporates two large air intakes and blue LED daytime running lights. The intakes greatly contribute to the front brake cooling, while the shape of the lower lip is designed to centrally channel underbody air flow.

At the rear, Yaris Hybrid specific LED lights maintain the link with the production car. An exclusive spoiler is mounted on the roof and the redesigned bumper incorporates a large diffuser, with an exhaust pipe framed by two air extractors.

Based on the Yaris 3-door, the Toyota Yaris Hybrid R concept hybrid powertrain configuration, employs a powerful and highly tuned 1.6l petrol engine combined with two powerful electric motors to provide an 'intelligent' electric four-wheel drive capability.

At the rear, each wheel is individually powered by a 60hp electric motor - the same as those used in the standard Yaris Hybrid. The hybrid powertrain system develops a total system output of 420 hp.The front wheels are driven by a 300hp 4-cylinder 1.6 turbo engine with direct injection specifically developed by Toyota Motorsport GmbH (TMG) according to the rules of the International Automobile Federation (FIA) for a Global Race Engine to be utilised in different motorsport disciplines.

The two electric motors work as electric generators during the braking phase, and supplement the petrol engine during the accelerating phases.

Just like in the TS030 Hybrid, the energy recovered during the braking phase is stored in a super capacitor. In the Toyota Yaris Hybrid-R it is located under the rear seat, where the Yaris Hybrid battery is usually positioned. Compared to the standard NiMh hybrid battery, the super capacitor has a higher power density and a fast power charge / discharge speed. It is perfectly suited to the requirements of sporty driving on track, which requires brief and immediate bursts of power.

A 3rd 60hp electric motor, located between the engine and the 6 gear sequential transmission, operates as a generator in two different cases: during deceleration to feed the super capacitor and during acceleration to directly power the rear electric motors.

The latter will only happen when the engine power and torque exceed the grip potential of the front wheels. The generator behaves like an advanced traction control system, redirecting the torque as electric energy to the rear wheels, to boost the acceleration and improve the handling rather than to simply limit the engine power.

2013 Kia Wonder Woman Sportage

 Kia Motors America (KMA) has teamed up with DC Entertainment and Super Street magazine to build a head-turning Kia Sportage inspired by Wonder Woman’s power, inspiration and sense of equality. Unveiled today in conjunction with the 2013 New York International Auto Show, this uniquely customized Sportage signals the continuation of a 10-month, eight vehicle partnership between Kia and DC Entertainment based on the iconic characters that make up the Justice League – Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, Green Lantern, The Flash, Aquaman and Cyborg. An eighth and final vehicle will be an amalgamation of all seven Super Heroes in one. Influenced by the artistry of comic book visionary, Jim Lee, the Justice League-inspired Kia vehicles serve as a force for good in the world by raising awareness for DC Entertainment’s “We Can Be Heroes” giving campaign, a relief effort to bring help and hope to people affected by the hunger crisis in the Horn of Africa (www.WeCanBeHeroes.org).

“As one of the most well-known Super Heroes in the world, Wonder Woman portrays an impressive balance of power, agility and confidence, all of which are inherent characteristics of the Kia Sportage crossover,” said Michael Sprague, executive vice president, marketing & communications, KMA. “Like the rest of the Justice League-inspired vehicles, this customized Sportage signifies a meaningful collaboration between cars and pop-culture. And for the first time, here in New York, all seven vehicles are standing together in one place to raise awareness for DC Entertainment’s very worthy ‘We Can Be Heroes’ giving campaign.”

The Wonder Woman-inspired Sportage features a sleek and stylish look thanks to an aero kit which grants a streamlined but powerful appearance. The red and blue exterior color scheme, accented with stars, was derived directly from Wonder Woman’s outfit, while the gold trim wrapped around the vehicle represents the heroine’s weapon of choice, "The Lasso of Truth." Up front, Wonder Woman’s eagle chest-plate emblem was creatively integrated into the production grille and is flanked by blue headlight beams, which reflect her piercing blue eyes. The Sportage’s windshield features a banner portraying Wonder Woman's tiara, and the chrome side panels on the vehicle are graphical interpretations of her invisible jet. Beneath, the 5-spoke wheel design was chosen to match the stars on the exterior of the vehicle.

Within, red upholstery and dash pieces combined with blue LED lighting were added to continue the Sportage’s exterior color scheme into the cabin. The custom seats were inspired by Wonder Woman's signature garb and embroidered with her logo, while the cargo area of the vehicle is adorned with stars and an eagle and features a see-through panel, which displays Wonder Woman's tiara, bracelets and glowing Lasso of Truth.

“It’s exciting to join Kia in revealing the final car to represent a member of the Justice League, Wonder Woman, at the New York Auto Show,” stated Jim Lee, co-publisher of DC Entertainment. “This joint effort to raise awareness for the ‘We Can Be Heroes’ giving campaign continues to be a huge draw for fans across the country, and I’m sure New Yorkers will agree that the new Wonder Woman-inspired Sportage is a ‘must see’ feature at the show.”

2013 Infiniti Q30 Concept

Infiniti has provided a first look at the Q30 Concept which will have its world premiere at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show as the next step in Infiniti's foray into new premium segments.

The Infiniti Q30 Concept signals the contemporary design vision for a compact Infiniti vehicle which will target a new generation of premium customers.

Infiniti Q30 Concept embodies Infiniti's vision to deliver head-turning design, innovative materials with precise fit and finish and passionate craftsmanship, while provoking a radical shift in the premium compact segment.

The shape of the Infiniti Q30 Concept deliberately challenges categorisation - not a coupe, not a hatch and not a crossover but a fusion of the three body styles. It is designed for younger customers seeking an alternative to traditional premium compact vehicles and open to convention-challenging approaches.

Infiniti is confident this merging of the dynamic design and sportiness of a coupe, the roominess of a hatch and the higher stance of a crossover will resonate with these customers.

The Infiniti Q30 Concept design language reflects the brand's vision to deliver new levels of design, materials, fit and finish, craftsmanship and performance. The Infiniti design team, led by Executive Design Director Alfonso Albaisa, has explored bolder, sensual sculpting and enhanced muscularity with the Q30 Concept as the brand's design language continues to evolve.

The Infiniti Q30 Concept signals the next step in an aggressive strategy to extend the Infiniti brand into new premium segments.
source : Infiniti press

2014 Toyota Sai

The Japanese car manufacturer Toyota has unveiled today the Sai facelift model in its home market. The restyled model has a more aggressive look thanks to the revised grille, new bumpers and LED headlights. On the back, we see a new air diffuser and full-length taillights. 

The exterior modification ends with some 16 inch aluminum wheels. The customers will be able to order the new 2014 Toyota Sai facelift in three new body colors: Red Mica Metallic, Grey Mica Metallic and Clear Stream Metallic.

Inside the cabin, there are new high quality materials and a slightly redesigned center console. According to the Japanese car maker, the customers can order a new 10 speaker SD Navigation system with a microSD card slot, Blu-ray compatibility and two USB inputs.

Under the hood, Toyota has mounted a 2.4 liter engine that can offer 150 horsepower and 187 Nm peek of torque that is assisted by an electric motor that can deliver 143 HP and 270 Nm. The combined maximum output is 190 horsepower and according to Toyota the fuel consumption is of just 4.4 liter per 100 kilometers. 

The new 2014 Toyota Sai facelift is available in Japan with a price tag starting of ¥3.210.000, or 24.655 Euros.

2013 Mitsubishi Outlander Special editions for athletes

The Japanese car maker Mitsubishi and the guys from H360 Group have teamed up and have developed a Summer and Winter editions for the Outlander and Outlander Sport. 

The 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander Winter Edition is featuring a white exterior with aluminum accents and 20 inch Niche Targa rims. Inside the cabin, the customers will get leather upholstery, yellow stitching and a gear shift knob that resembles with a ski pole grip. There is also a Volcom snowboard gear, a coffee maker in the trunk and two Thermos beneath the center console.

The 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander Summer Sport Edition comes with an orange exterior and graphite accents. The customers will also get two Trek mountain bikes on the roof rack and 20 inch Vossen CV3 rims.

 Inside the cabin, there is leather upholstery with orange contrast stitching and a bespoke cargo area with custom storage compartments for workout gear.

Volkswagen Beetle and Beetle Cabrio modified

The German tuner ABT Sportsline has unveiled its program for the Beetle Coupe and Beetle Cabrio. The tuner has developed an exterior package and a performance kit for the "bug".

Outside the care we see a more aggressive kit. It comes with a new spoiler, headlights covers, two pipes exhaust system, new springs suspensions and a 30 mm lower ride height. The customers will be able to order the car in three metallic paint colors: mystic anthracite, gunmetal and silver bullet. 

The Germans from ABT have taken care of the entire engine lineup. Let's start with the diesel ones. The 2.0 liter TDI that offers 140 HP now deliver 170 horsepower and 370 Nm peek of torque. The 1.6 liter TDI engine is coming now with 125 HP and 285 Nm of torque. 

For the petrol unit lovers, ABT also have some big surprises. The 1.2 liter TSI now can offer 140 HP and 220 Nm of toque, the 1.4 TSI unit can deliver 210 HP and 280 Nm peek of torque. Last, but not the least, the 2.0 liter TSI engine can now deliver 240 horsepower and 340 Nm peek of torque.

Audi S3, the first car ready to offer 4G connectivity

From tomorrow new lightning quick 4G/Long Term Evolution (LTE) Internet connectivity is set to significantly increase speeds on London’s information superhighway, and true to its Vorsprung durch Technik philosophy Audi is the first car manufacturer to offer a ready-to-order production model capable of capitalising on this advanced new Mobile Internet standard.

Appropriately, the fastest member of the five-door A3 Sportback family - the 300PS S3 -  is the first to integrate the high-speed connection.

LTE technology can be ordered for the Audi S3 Sportback now, and for all other variants of the A3 family from November, ready for the wider network roll-out of the technology across the UK during 2013. The integration of 4G/LTE marks a very important step in the evolution of the Audi connect system, which networks the car with the driver and the Internet, and in the future could also provide an interface with the infrastructure and with other vehicles.

4G/LTE considerably broadens the scope of what is possible with in-car ‘infotainment’. It enables the transfer of large amounts of data, such as music and films in HD quality, via the Internet. The LTE standard is also expected to provide a strong boost to the seamless use of media stored on a server on the Internet (data in the cloud).

 

To use LTE, MMI Navigation Plus with Audi connect is required – available as part of the Technology Package for the S3 Sportback - and a suitable SIM card with a data flat rate simply needs to be inserted into the appropriate slot in the glovebox. When passengers connect their mobile devices to the WLAN hotspot integrated into the car, they can surf the web independently of one another. For example, one passenger can participate in a video conference while another watches a video.

In the Audi S3 Sportback, 4G/LTE technology will accelerate the delivery of many of the services of Audi connect to the driver – from navigation with Google Earth and Google Street View to Audi music stream web radio and online traffic information. The latest incarnation of Audi connect in A3 and S3 models also offers social media access, a fuel station locator which incorporates distance and pricing information, and a local parking availability and pricing function. 

2013 Vauxhall VXR

A couple of days ago, Opel have unveiled the 2013 Insignia OPC facelift. Today, Vauxhall, their British division, have pulled the wraps off the 2013 Insignia VXR SuperSport. The restyled sedan will be officially unveiled next month at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show. 

The 2013 Vauxhall Insignia VXR SuperSport comes with restyled bumpers and redesigned headlights. Inside the cabin, the British model will feature a new dashboard, an updated infotainment system and restyled switchgear. 

Under the hood, the 2013 Vauxhall Insignia VXR SuperSport will feature a V8 turbo 2.8 liter unit that can deliver 325 horsepower and 435 Nm peek of torque. The engine resources are managed by a six speed manual gear box. In these conditions, the car can sprint from stand still to 60 mph in 5.9 seconds (6.1 seconds for Sports Tourer version) while the top speed is clocked at 170 mph.

 The 2013 Vauxhall Insignia VXR SuperSport is available to order at a price tag of 29.749 Pounds for the hatchback and 31.049 Pounds for the Sports Tourer.

2014 Ford F-150 Super Crew is available in the USA

Ford, America’s truck leader, adds the 2014 Ford F-150 STX SuperCrew and STX Sport Package to its lineup, offering entry-level and value-oriented truck customers capable, roomy and stylish new options.

The F-150 STX SuperCrew meets the needs of first-time and returning value-conscious pickup truck customers, especially those who need to transport a crew to a job site or take the family on a trip.

Positioned between the work-ready XL and popular XLT models, STX offers upgraded exterior and interior features beyond what’s usually available for entry-level crew cab pickups.

Ford F-150 STX comes standard with a 302-horsepower, 278-lb.-ft.-of-torque 3.7-liter V6 engine, delivering an EPA-estimated 17 mpg city and 23 mpg highway. Ford F-150 also offers the half-ton segment’s only available compressed natural gas prep package.

 

A 5.0-liter V8 rated at 360 horsepower and 380 lb.-ft. of torque is also available, enabling STX SuperCrew to tow up to 9,500 pounds when properly equipped.

For buyers looking for extra style and personalization, the new STX Sport Package, available in all cab configurations, strengthens vehicle appearance with custom-inspired details.

The 2014 Ford F-150 STX model lineup starts under $30,000. Manufacturer’s suggested retail price for STX SuperCrew starts at $33,145 for the 4x2 version with 3.7-liter V6 and $37,570 for the 4x4 with 5.0-liter V8. Current available discounts reduce the final price of the STX Sport Package, and F-150 Equipment Group 201A featuring the Trailer Tow Package, SYNC voice-activated controls and SiriusXM Satellite Radio, to $980. Destination charges are $1,095.

2014 Chevrolet Malibu prices in the usa

The 2014 Chevrolet Malibu arriving in dealerships this fall will be the first midsize sedan sold in the U.S. to offer fuel-saving stop/start technology standard on its 2.5L base model.

The Malibu has an EPA-estimated 25 city and 36 highway mpg – a 14 percent improvement in city fuel economy – at a starting price of $22,965, including an $825 destination charge but excluding tax, title, and license and dealer fees.

Stop/start technology helps customers conserve fuel by automatically shutting off the engine when the car comes to a stop, such as at stoplights. The engine automatically restarts when the driver takes his or her foot off the brake. During engine restarts, an auxiliary 12-volt battery powers electric accessories such as heating and air conditioning, power windows and radio.

Malibu’s stop/start system monitors – among other things – vehicle speed, climate control system operation and the force a driver applies to the brake pedal, to determine whether it is efficient to shut off the engine in certain driving conditions, such as stop-and-go driving.

 

In addition to stop/start technology, Chevrolet engineers incorporated valve-actuation technology known as Intake Valve Lift Control into Malibu’s 2.5L engine, which also contributes to improved fuel economy.

A new six-speed transmission makes its first appearance in the 2014 Malibu 2.5L. The 6T45 transmission includes improvements that reduce the energy required to pump transmission fluid, which enables additional fuel economy savings.

The new technologies on the 2.5L model enable the Malibu to deliver a higher combined fuel economy rating than the base engines of several midsize sedan competitors, including the Toyota Camry, Ford Fusion, Kia Optima, Hyundai Sonata and Chrysler 200.

Volvo arriving to Frankfurt

Inspired by contemporary, progressive Scandinavian lifestyle and design, as well as iconic elements from the past, the elegant new Volvo Concept Coupé is the first of a series of three concept cars that reveal the design possibilities created by the company’s new Scalable Product Architecture (SPA).

After more than a year of rising expectations, the first design by the new Senior Vice President of Design, Thomas Ingenlath, showcases how design builds emotion into the Volvo brand and points towards the next generation of Volvo models, starting with the forthcoming XC90 in 2014.

Developed in-house for Volvo Cars only, the Scalable Product Architecture liberates Volvo’s designers and engineers from the limitations of previous cross-brand platforms.

“The new Volvo Concept Coupé reveals how we could shape our cars from now on. Free from the superficial surface excitement of other car brands, we add emotional value to the Volvo brand with the calm, confident beauty that is the hallmark of Scandinavian design,” says Thomas Ingenlath.

 

A low bonnet, roof, and the five-spoke, 21-inch wheels also contribute to the impression of an elegant Gran Tourer oozing effortless power. The confident stance is emphasised by a beltline that spans an elegant bow along the whole car. The Concept Coupé also features elements that echo the design of the Volvo P1800 from the 1960s.

The blue-grey exterior is echoed on the inside of the Volvo Concept Coupé. Refined, handcrafted elements such as the leather instrument panel, inlays made of naturally aged wood and the dark blue woven carpets are blended with beautifully machined metal details.

The concept car also includes a totally new approach to Volvo Cars’ human-centric user experience. A large portrait touch-screen in the centre console interacts with an adaptive digital display and head-up display in front of the driver.

The Scalable Product Architecture is also being prepared for completely autonomous driving. The first features with autonomous steering to avoid accidents and make driving more comfortable will be introduced in 2014 – and Volvo Cars’ aim is to have cars with fully autonomous technology out on the roads before 2020.

The concept car features a two-litre high-performance Drive-E petrol engine with a supercharger and turbo. The petrol engine is teamed with an electric motor on the rear axle. This gives Volvo Concept Coupé a total output of around 400 hp and over 600 Nm of torque.

Ford Fiesta oddly

Bacon has been a cornerstone of cuisine since ancient Rome. In recent years the cured meat has transformed from a food to a lifestyle – inspiring everything from medical supplies to plush toys. Now, with International Bacon Day just around the corner, Ford is savoring the salty side dish with the introduction of what is believed to be the first bacon-wrapped car – a 2014 Ford Fiesta.

Ford is announcing the availability of custom bacon graphics that pork purists can have installed on their new Fiesta. The small car synonymous with fun and individuality is hitting dealerships around the country.

The pièce de résistance is the full “Bacon Wrap” – 10 giant strips of delicious bacon rolled around the entire Fiesta for a carb-free ride. Benton, known as the King of Bacon among venerable food writers and chefs, personally approved the design, and has deemed the bacon-wrapped Fiesta good enough to eat – and drive.

Other options from the bacon-wrap Fiesta menu include: Bacon Racing Strips, two pieces of bacon that go on the car’s hood and resemble classic dual racing stripes, Side of Bacon, two individual strips of bacon that wrap over rear wheel, popular among those on a diet.

The bacon graphics are just a few custom exterior vinyl graphics Fiesta buyers can have installed on their ride to express their personalities. The wraps are produced by Ford Custom Graphics, along with 3M Original Wraps, and are available at www.fordcustomgraphics.com.

 

Kia Niro Concept unveiled

Kia has confirmed that its new European concept, to be unveiled at the 65th Internationale Automobil-Ausstellung (IAA) in Frankfurt, will be called the Kia Niro.

The Kia Niro hints at a possible future B-segment contender ready to take on the urban environment with style and tenacity, and will preview an innovative new powertrain when it is revealed on 10 September.  The car was designed at Kia’s Frankfurt design studio – less than a kilometre away from the IAA – under the direction of Gregory Guillaume, Chief Designer Europe.

Accepting any challenge that the assured modern motorist may throw at it, Niro combines a mischievous character in a clearly robust and substantial yet stylish bodyshape featuring a mix of contrasting materials – including stainless steel elements – in compact, purposeful dimensions.

 

Born out of Kia’s determination to seek new compact-car options for the individualistic and demanding driver for whom size is an issue, Niro features intriguing elements not always associated with smaller cars and has been created in Europe with European tastes and expectations very much in mind.

Niro’s unveiling in Frankfurt will be used to gauge potential customer response for future showroom models.

Opel Adam Black Link and White Link to debut in Frankfurt

The Opel ADAM is not only the individualization champion, it is also the best connected small car on the market. This is again demonstrated by the new ADAM Black Link and ADAM White Link special models, which come with the IntelliLink infotainment system and Siri Eyes Free voice control fitted as standard. Both new models make their debut at the International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt on the Opel stand D09 in Hall 8 from September 12 – 22. Produced in a limited edition of 2,000 units, the ADAM Black Link and White Link variants reflect typical smartphone looks in black or white, with accents in brushed aluminum. They thus embody a perfect blend of ultra-modern infotainment and connectivity technology with clear, technically-inspired design.

ADAM drivers who have an iOS 6 – or later – compatible iPhone can comfortably and safely activate the Siri Eyes Free function via steering wheel controls and operate it with voice commands while keeping their hands on the wheel and their eyes on the road.

To activate Siri in Eyes Free mode, drivers connect their iPhone with IntelliLink via Bluetooth and then press the voice activation button on the steering wheel. Siri Eyes Free can be called up while other apps, such as BringGo Navigation, are running in the background. Music and navigation information is automatically muted during this time.

 

Thanks to Siri Eyes Free, even navigation with Apple Maps is child’s play. Places, addresses and destinations can be entered verbally, without the driver having to look at the IntelliLink screen. The map is shown on the iPhone display mounted in the Opel FlexDock. With the standard FlexDock smartphone set-up in the instrument panel in the ADAM Black Link and White Link, drivers have full access to Siri Eyes Free. In this way they can even ask how close they are to their destination. Another advantage of the Opel FlexDock is that it automatically re-charges the iPhone it’s holding so the battery doesn’t deplete.

The Opel IntelliLink infotainment system features a 7-inch color touchscreen and also includes the Tune-in app for global radio reception, the navigation app BringGo and Stitcher, an app for receiving internet radio podcasts from around the world. The infotainment system is also compatible with Android software-operated devices.

Inside the cabin, the seats, instruments and applications continue the exterior color scheme. In the ADAM Black Link, all occupants enjoy the comfort of OCIO Black Morrocana seat cushions. While the center console and instrument panel are also black, the door trims, glove box, leather gear knob and handbrake handle are in contrasting bright white and technically-inspired Sky Cool Grey. The counterpart to all this is the White Link version, with its own color scheme: the seats are radiant in OCIO White Morrocana, just like elements in the instrument panel and center console.

With innovative technologies, their own specific smartphone design and comprehensive standard equipment, the ADAM Black Link and ADAM White Link can both be ordered from the late fall.

Ford S-Max Concept unveiled ahead of Frankfurt

Ford Motor Company today revealed the new Ford S MAX Concept, a new sport activity vehicle that takes the style-without-compromise ethos of the popular current S-MAX to new levels with a sharper design, advanced technology, and premium craftsmanship.

The new S MAX Concept employs the latest Ford global design language with a high mounted grille, swept-back headlamps and a unique treatment of the vehicle's lower fascia that includes design elements that appear to float within the lower front aperture and above the spoiler.

The characteristic S-MAX profile has been honed with the front bonnet sweeping seamlessly into the sharply raked front screen, which in turn flows into the dynamic arc of the roof to create a unique glass roof graphic. This sleek silhouette surrounds a spacious and versatile interior that offers anything from four-to seven-seatconfigurations.

Toyota Supra fans celebrate 20th anniversary

A rare gathering of nearly 100 Supras met on Sunday to mark the mighty muscle car’s 20th anniversary in style. The Toyota Supra Owners Club hosted the birthday celebration, supported by Toyota GB, at the Heritage Motor Centre at Gaydon. The line-up ranged from cars in original UK specification to highly modified machines, including some of the finest examples in the country.

Supra’s UK history began in 1982 with the arrival of the Celica Supra, although a first generation Supra had already been sold elsewhere in the world. The third generation reached Britain’s shores in 1986, a thoroughbred super GT cruiser which Toyota developed to sit above the Celica range and compete towards the higher end of the sports car market.

The final model Supra, the Mk IV, was launched in the UK in 1993 to media acclaim as the fastest most powerful Supra ever. It delivered genuine supercar performance thanks to its twin-turbocharged 326bhp 3.0-litre six-cylinder engine and has lit up race tracks and drag strips ever since.

 

Supra owners have indulged in a considerable array of modifications to their vehicles with customisation kits and the option of tuning the 3JZE engine to more than 1,000bhp. This trend continues today with the Toyota GT86, for which a great range of personalisation options are available.

The club organized a Supra convoy to the museum and Toyota GB hosted a hog roast lunch. Owners were able to visit the museum’s historic vehicle collection and take home a batch of commemorative Toyota Supra cupcakes.

Mazda Hofu plant builds its 10 milionth car

Japan-Mazda Motor Corporation today announced that cumulative vehicle production at the Nishinoura district of Hofu Plant in Japan's Yamaguchi prefecture has reached ten million units. The milestone is achieved 30 years and eleven months after vehicle production commenced at Hofu Plant No. 1.

A ceremony was held at Hofu Plant No. 2 in celebration of the achievement. Attendees, including Masamichi Kogai, Mazda's Representative Director, President and CEO, and Nariaki Uchida, Executive Officer and General Manager of Hofu Plant, watched as the ten millionth vehicle, a Mazda6 (known as Atenza in Japan), came off the assembly line.

In his remarks at the ceremony, Masamichi Kogai said, "The production of ten million vehicles at Hofu Plant is a tremendous achievement, and we could not have done it without the support of our customers, our suppliers and other concerned parties, as well as that of the local community, the city of Hofu and Yamaguchi prefecture. On behalf of Mazda, allow me to express my deepest gratitude. We see this fantastic achievement not as a destination, but rather as a milestone on our road to further growth. Moving forward, we are committed to continue delivering fantastic products that delight our customers."

 Full-scale production at Hofu plant started at what is today known as Hofu Plant No. 1 in September 1982. Hofu Plant No. 2 began operating in February 1992 with a volume and model mix flexible production line for vehicle bodies and modular assembly systems in the mixed-model assembly line. The two plants combined currently have an annual production capacity of 482,100 units. Currently, Hofu Plant No. 1 produces the all-new Mazda3 (Axela in Japan) which will be launched globally starting from North America this autumn. Hofu Plant No. 2 makes the Mazda6, which is enjoying strong sales around the globe.

Tata Tuff Truck marks the launch of Tata Motors

Fusion Automotive the Australian distributor of Tata Motors has developed a unique and exclusively designed concept vehicle for the launch of the Tata Motors brand in Australia.

The uniquely designed concept vehicle, will be premiered at the National 4×4 & Outdoors Show and Fishing & Boating Expo, August 23-25 at the Melbourne Showgrounds, was designed and built in a joint venture between Fusion Automotive and Tata Motors, with the design team headed up by Walkinshaw Automotive Chief Designer Julian Quincey.

Based on the Tata Xenon, the concept vehicle has an exclusively designed body kit and accessories pack including the wheels, snorkel and sports bar with the roof, driving and spot lights proudly provided by Narva.

The design team highlighted the Xenon’s strong wheel arch design as a key feature, and focussed initially on increasing the wheel size and width to cater of larger off road tyres. The 20” wheels are uniquely designed and developed by the design team and machined from a solid billet of aluminium. They have a tough chiselled look purpose made for Xenon and give the vehicle such a strong stance.

With lighting a major feature in the work and play qualities of a 4x4 vehicle, the team designed a state of the art roof light bar that integrates the unique roof rack with a custom Narva LED Xenon lighting rig, for everyday driving; driving lamps and DRL’s were incorporated to make sure the car is both seen and has superb forward visibility at night.

The vehicle is a testament to the engineering ability of the Walkinshaw Automotive team, most of the larger parts were modelled to size on full sized clay model Xenon, however the roof rack and snorkel were 3D printed, whilst other parts like the grilles were CNC milled out of ABS.

The standard Tata Xenon which goes on sale in October 2013 will feature a Euro 5 emission compliant 2.2L turbo diesel engine, driver and front passenger airbags as well as in car features such as blue tooth and USB connectivity as standard.

Both the Tata Xenon “Tuff Truck” and the standard vehicle will be on display in the Automotive Pavilion at the National 4×4 & Outdoors Show and Fishing & Boating Expo and visitors to the Show will be able to experience the vehicle first hand with Test Rides available in the Action Arena.

Mercedes produced its 10 milionth C-Class

Since its market launch in 1982, Mercedes-Benz has supplied customers with over 10 million cars of the C-Class family. The brand has sold more than 2.3 million sedans, estates and coupes of the current model series alone since it was unveiled in 2007.

The C 220 CDI is the most popular engine and the BlueEFFICIENCY edition scores highly for being particularly environmentally friendly. The sedan and coupe models consume just 4.1 litres of diesel per 100 kilometres – equivalent to CO2 emissions of 109 grams per kilometre.

The C-Class model series are not only in demand throughout the world – from 2014 they will also be the only Mercedes-Benz vehicles to be produced on four continents, being made at plants in Bremen (Germany), East London (South Africa), Beijing (China) and Tuscaloosa (USA). The Mercedes-Benz plant Bremen is also the centre of excellence for the new C-Class generation and it controls the global ramp-up. Well over a million C-Class cars in the current model series alone have already rolled off the production line in Bremen.

Dr Joachim Schmidt, Executive Vice President, Sales and Marketing Mercedes-Benz Cars: “The Mercedes-Benz C-Class is a global success story. Sales of over 10 million C-Class cars speak for themselves. Launched as the ‘Baby Benz’, it is now one of the most popular cars in the premium segment. The innovative engineering and impressive efficiency of the C-Class have been inspiring our customers for more than 30 years.”

C-Class sedans sell extremely well in the US, South Africa and the BRIC countries, while there is particular demand for the estate among customers in Europe. The C-Class coupe tops the registration lists in virtually all markets, including those in the US, Germany and China. The C-Class is also one of the most popular models among business customers. The C-Class estate – which already accounts for nearly a milion sales – was voted 2011 company car of the year in Germany. Most business customers choose the Mercedes-Benz C 220 CDI Estate for its excellent fuel economy figures.

NIssan Patrol sets world record for pulling a heavy plane

The Nissan Patrol Challenge reached its grand finale today with a new Guinness World Record set by the unstoppable Hero of All Terrain. In the presence of His Excellency Dr. Ghanem Alhajiri, Chairman of Sharjah International Airport, Nissan Patrol became the holder of the "heaviest object pulled by any production vehicle" Guinness World Record and notched up another historic milestone for illustrious heritage. The event, held at Sharjah International Airport, United Arab Emirates, saw an unmodified production Nissan Patrol haul a 170.9 ton cargo plane, inclusive of weight of the plane, fuel and the cargo for over 50 meters, smashing the previous record by 15 tons.

The record attempt was supported by Sharjah International Airport and held under the patronage of His Excellency Sheikh Abdullah Bin Mohammed Al Thani, Chairman of Civil Aviation of Sharjah. In order to express its thanks for its invaluable support, Nissan shared this accolade with Sharjah International Airport.

'Nissan Patrol Challenge' was launched in 2012 and invited the region's people to share their great ideas of how they have dreamt of using this iconic vehicle online. Encouraging fans to design an innovative test for the Patrol and give themselves a chance of winning an once-in-a-lifetime trip to Japan and other great prizes.

 

The result of this successful competition resulted in today's Guinness World Record when Nissan Patrol comfortably dragged the Ilyushin Il-76 with a laden weight of 170.9 tons. In keeping with the indomitable Hero of All Terrain's reputation, the Ilyushin Il-76 is known as one of the world's toughest cargo planes, designed to be able to deliver cargo and take-off and land to some of the world's most extreme environments.

The Nissan Patrol has a rich heritage in the Middle East Region as one of the world's most iconic off-road vehicles and has been in constant series production since the 1950s.  The first Nissan Patrol in the Middle East arrived in Kuwait in 1956 and since then this ultimate expression of personal freedom has found numerous local fans. Nissan Patrol has built a reputation for being one of the most durable, reliable and capable off-road cars on the market. Many buyers of the patrol in the Middle East region are extremely loyal to the car. Indeed, lots of people consider the Nissan Patrol to be a member of the family and hand the car down through the generations when a new model is purchased.