Saturn signs contract with Fiat to sell 500 and Abarth in U.S.

DETROIT – With GM resources being shuffled to other brands in its portfolio, Saturn needed to find a new supplier of vehicles if it wanted to extend its shelf life beyond GM’s set 2013 expiration date.

Representatives from Saturn have signed a tentative agreement with Fiat to distribute Fiat and Abarth vehicles in the United States. Newly appointed GM CEO Fritz Henderson remarked, “We think this agreement is best for GM and best for Fiat. They need a dealer network and we needed someone else to provide cars for Saturn.”

Speaking of untapped demand, Henderson went on to say that he believed the Fiat 500 in particular would be a smash hit in the United States. “Smart has done very well for itself and exceeded expectations with its imported small car from Europe, and we think Saturn can do the same with the 500.”

On the sales failure of the Saturn Astra, Henderson said, “Internet focus groups have told us that the Astra failed because we did not offer the VXR or OPC variant. Hence this time around we have listened to them and plan to also offer Abarth vehicles in the United States.”

More details are expected to be announced by the end of the month.

Alfa Romeo White Edition unveiled

For the Japanese market, Alfa Romeo has launched a White Edition line that combines white paint, a red interior, and exclusive wheels for the following models: the 147 2.0 Twin Spark Selespeed, the GT 2.0 JTS Selespeed, Alfa Brera 3.2 JTS Q4 Q-Tronic and the Alfa Spider 2.2 JTS Selespeed.

Pricing for the new special edition model range starts at 3.5 million Yen for the 147 and tops out at 6.1 million Yen for the Brera.

White Edition Japanese website

Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG by Carlsson

The Carlsson CK63 based on the Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG was unveiled today. Here is the official press release from Carlsson:

With the C-Class top-of-the line model C 63 AMG, Mercedes-Benz has given an impressive statement in the medium class. Where else can you get an enormous larger than 6 liter V8 engine in a relatively small car? But as the power output is comparably low, the high-tech manufacturer Carlsson activates the hidden potential. With up to 565 hp, the Carlsson CK63 leaves its competitors behind its (stainless steel) end pipes. And equipped with new wheels and even more sporty aerodynamics,
the top-of-the line C-Class model refined by Carlsson also shows clear features of a top athlete.

Carlsson CK63 – that stands for performance and full torque. The performance kit for the motor type M156 increases the serial performance of the 6.3 liter V8 from 457 hp (336 kW) at 6,800 rpm up to 565 hp/415 kW. The torque significantly increases from 600 to 685 Nm and therefore the car only needs 3.8 seconds to accelerate from 0-100 km/h instead of the serial 4.5 seconds. Once more, the Carlsson engineers are able to prove their expertise gained in motor sports.

All kits include a special motor electronics adaptation, a maximum speed increase up to 300 km/h (electronically limited), a sport air filter and a noble three-part Carlsson motor cover made of real carbon as well as the obligatory Carlsson nameplate in chrome. Carlsson gently limits the never-ending thrust at 300 km/h for all models with an electronic device. The Carlsson sport rear muffler from the 565 hp strong CK63 S-Kit not only renders an enormous sound but also 15 extra hp (11 kW).

Coil-over kit and limited slip differential

The perfectly set-up Carlsson RS coil-over kit which has been co-developed by Ellen Lohr offers a step-less height adjustment and renders a driving dynamics which has never been experienced before. With the individually adjustable damping characteristics, the driver can regulate the setup according to his preference. With this new technical development by Carlsson, the driver does not have to make any compromise. He can enjoy the comfort of the roadworthy suspension system or race for top speeds on a racetrack. To ensure that the extra performance which has been imbued to the C-Class by Carlsson does not go up in smoke on the asphalt, Carlsson recommends fitting its torque-sensitive multi-plate
limited slip differential with mechanically variable lock-up (produced with lock-up values according to customer requirements). This increases the traction and driving stability, especially when accelerating in bends.

Powerful-dynamic Carlsson aerodynamics

The elaborate premium Carlsson aerodynamics consists of a front spoiler, the front spoiler lip RS and a Carlsson rear spoiler (with an imprinted Carlsson logo) which renders stability at higher speeds. All accessories are made of high-quality PUR or optionally real carbon. The styling kit does not only stand out for its perfect finishing, but also for its unique design. It emphasizes the Carlsson designers' claim to always develop something a bit nobler than its competitors.

High Tech forged wheels 1/16 Ultra Light

When developing the Carlsson light alloy wheels 1/16 UL, the engineers and designers most of all focused on a perfect weight optimization. All force effects on the wheel are led into the wheel spider by the regular distribution of spokes. This avoids an over-dimensioned wall thickness and leads to a low wheel weight. The latest forging technology leads to a weight reduction of 38% compared to ordinary wheels with a similar wheel load and dimension! Thanks to the metal compression, the induced forces are forwarded in a far more homogenous way than with a cast wheel. Therefore, the unsprung masses are held as low as possible at the wheel suspensions and that leads to a noticeable driving comfort improvement by the Carlsson forged wheels compared to customary light alloy wheels. The forged Carlsson wheel 1/16 Ultra Light is available in the sizes 8,5x19“ (FA+RA) and 10x19“ (only RA) for the Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG.

Finest craftsmanship dominates the interior

According to the customer requirements, Carlsson compiles various components to an individual comfort-mix, from a sport steering wheel to leather interiors or multi-media accessories. In the noble manufactory, also the Carlsson CK63 S is once again significantly individualized. This is how unique specimen are created with the best materials according to customers wishes.

More information about the exclusive refining program for Mercedes Benz automobiles can be obtained directly from Carlsson in Merzig, from the Carlsson distribution network or from any dealer.

Mazda Goes on a Diet

Through a variety of weight-reduction methods, Mazda has announced that its next generation of cars will shed up to 440 pounds each. In today's environment of escalating fuel costs, improving MPG has become a paramount concern for automakers. Lower vehicle curb weights means less mass to move which saves you money at the pump. And lower weight also offers improved performance dividends which is fitting for the "Zoom-Zoom" brand.

The diet consists of three weight-loss methods, focusing on lighter materials, new metal bonding techniques, and vehicle design emphasis on lower weight.

The biggest changes will be seen in new vehicles' underbody structures, where Mazda plans to transfer crash impacts through the floorpan instead of the body. Because the floorpan will require less strengthening to sustain impacts, this will allow Mazda to lighten the top-half of the body shell. Car stylists will also include less curves on the body, as straighter sides enable engineers to create a stronger frame with less metal.

In addition, Mazda has created a new 'micro-cell' plastic, with an aerated foam core. With this new plastic, Mazda reckons it can reduce the weight of all plastic parts in a car by 10%.

Mazda has also restated its commitment to Wankel engines as part of its weight saving strategy, although any such weight improvements will have to be carefully evaluated against increased fuel consumption.

Stay away from the cookies Mazda!

Mercedes-Benz ML-Class facelift

Added character and style for the exterior

The assured appearance of the M-Class is now marked by its dynamically flowing, yet at the same time crisp lines and a clear, powerful design idiom. Thanks to the new-look front-end as well as the modified rear, the new-generation M-Class looks more muscular yet brings a sense of aesthetic elegance to bear – in short, it has even more style.

The front end is dominated by a new-look, robust bumper as well as headlamps with a pronounced step in the lower edge. This step continues seamlessly down and around the radiator with its distinctive contours. The larger, lower-set radiator is another element brimming with character. Three wide, black louvres with large, rectangular air outlets and a gleaming chrome edge give structure to the radiator, making the new-generation M-Class appear even more dominant. Fog lamps set well to the outside and a new-look simulated underguard make the off-roader appear wider and even more dynamic.

The rear bumper with integrated reflectors has also been restyled, making the M‑Class appear even more poised and assured for anyone following behind.

The optional stainless steel underguard conceals the exhaust system with its twin tailpipes and also gives the car a wider stance on the road. The reversing lights also feature darkened indicator repeater lenses in a smoked-glass look. Roof rails are now also included as part of the standard-fit styling and practical features, along with the new powerful mirrors with their larger surface designed to provide better visibility.

Interior with high-grade appointment

The interior of the new-generation, state-of-the-art off-roader has been stylishly upgraded with high-quality materials. The door centre panel is now trimmed in ARTICO man-made leather. Two-tone leather appointments are also available as an option to give a hand-made impression. In the enhanced interior the eye is also drawn to the new, four-spoke leather multifunction steering wheel with its chrome trim, improved ease of operation and standard-fit shift paddles. The seats have a more attractive, sportier design and can be fitted with four-way lumbar support as an option.

The new-generation M-Class features a brand new telematics generation developed by Mercedes-Benz, offering a new dimension in user-friendliness, high performance and a host of useful new functions. Integrated features include a hands-free system based on Bluetooth technology, and an aux-in connection for mobile audio devices such as an iPod. On request there is also a new Media Interface, which can connect an external music device with the off-roader’s onboard electronics and control system, enabling music tracks to be shown in the instrument cluster and the colour display in the centre console, and conveniently accessed using the buttons on the multifunction steering wheel. At the same time, the audio device’s battery is also charged.

There is a choice of three units, all of them with a colour display, a twin tuner for improved radio reception, speed-sensitive volume control, a keypad for entering telephone numbers and radio frequencies and a Bluetooth interface which enables a mobile phone to be wirelessly linked to the hands-free system. Along with the new telematics generation, Mercedes-Benz also is now also offering enhanced LINGUATRONIC voice-operated control system as an optional extra in the M‑Class for the first time.

The occupants are also able to enjoy a surround-sound experience of concert hall quality with the latest generation of the optional Harman Kardon® Logic7® sound system, which delivers exceptionally crystal-clear listening pleasure thanks to its output of 610 watts and digital signal processor (DSP).

Rear-seat passengers also have the option of a new entertainment system with two large 8-inch screens, a centrally integrated DVD player, two sets of wireless headphones for greater freedom of movement as well as two remote controls.

Unrivalled safety features as standard

The Mercedes-Benz M-Class has always set the benchmark in terms of safety in the SUV segment. In future it will also come as standard with the anticipatory occupant protection system PRE-SAFE® and NECK-PRO head restraints.

Fuel consumption reduced by up to 0.4 litres per 100 kilometres

The M-Class is powered by powerful yet economical V6 and V8 petrol or diesel engines, which are now even more fuel-efficient. The 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive delivers outstanding performance both on and off-road. And the standard-fit 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission with optimised shift characteristics translates the power from the engines into refined dynamism.

Five units are available in the new-generation M-Class ranging from 140 to 285 kW (190 to 388 hp). The engineers’ meticulous attention to detail has reduced fuel consumption by up to 0.4 litres per 100 kilometres compared with the outgoing models. Moreover, the most powerful engine developing 375 kW/510 hp is available in the guise of the ML 63 AMG 4MATIC.

*Source: Daimler*

Prodrive's Active Toe Control

Motorsport and vehicle technology specialist, Prodrive, is developing a vehicle dynamics system that actively adjusts toe angle to improve vehicle handling.Known as Active Toe Control, it works on the rear axle of front wheel drive cars to optimise the toe angle, depending on the speed of the vehicle. This helps overcome the static toe compromise of either giving a vehicle agile handling at lower speeds or making it more stable and predictable at high speed. Advances in tyre technology and suspension, mean that the dynamic capability of modern cars is now so good, that it is rare for drivers to ever reach a vehicle’s limits.

“Typically most drivers stay well within 60-70 per cent of their car’s capabilities,” said Matt Taylor, Prodrive chief dynamics specialist. “This means vehicle manufacturers are increasingly focusing on making their cars feel more sporty in this region, without necessarily increasing their outright performance.”

Once the chassis and suspension designs have been completed on a new model, the final adjustment to refine the dynamic characteristics is typically to set the static toe angles. To give a vehicle additional low speed agility, the wheels usually have up to a degree of toe‑out at the rear axle, while to make a car more stable at higher speeds, for emergency manoeuvres like a lane change, then toe-in is preferred. This makes any fixed toe setting a compromise and one that has contributed to the increasing use of complex multi-link rear suspensions in mid-size hatchbacks; a design previously reserved for high end vehicles. Ford set the trend with the Focus and others have since followed suit. However, while they work extremely well, such rear axles are far more expensive than the traditional twist beams they replace.

“Vehicle manufacturers really want ways to reduce the production cost of their cars. Replacing simple twist beam axles with more expensive multi-link systems goes against the grain, but as they all strive for class leading handling, it is direction they are being forced to take,” said Taylor. “Active Toe Control, fitted to an existing twist beam axle, can give many of the dynamic benefits of a multi-link system, but at less than half the cost.”

Handling characteristics are increasingly becoming attributes of vehicle brands. A BMW drives differently to a Renault, which is different to a Ford and in different markets there are differing expectations on how a car should handle.

The German market tends to like the handling characteristics typical of a rear wheel drive car where the vehicle’s yaw rate and lateral acceleration build at the same time.

“You don’t get the feeling of the car rotating, rather that the car is being pushed sideways. People often describe this as if the rear wheels are following the front wheels, with the car turning around the rear axle,” said Taylor.

Cars with this tight lateral acceleration and yaw rate phasing tend to turn in well and it is a typical set up for competition cars.

Markets, like France, which have been dominated by front wheel drive cars, favour different characteristics. Here they are used to cars where the lateral acceleration lags behind the yaw rate gain, a common characteristic of twist beam suspensions where the suspension flexibility allows the rear wheels to move sideways before ‘pushing’ the rear of the car.

“This gives the driver the sensation that the car is momentarily turning on the spot around its centre of gravity, as the nose tucks in and the back kicks out, giving an agile feeling,” said Taylor. “Neither approach is right or wrong, it’s a matter of preference. With Active Toe Control you have the added benefit of refining the handling simply by changing the control algorithms on the production line or at the dealer, to give the characteristics favoured by whichever market the car is to be sold.”

Prodrive has identified a preferred mechanism design to adjust the toe angle and is looking for a hardware partner to take the project to a working prototype.

*Source: Prodrive*

2008 Lotus Exige GT3 revealed

It’s back and it looks better than ever. The Lotus Exige GT3 of Angelo Lazaris has been updated in readiness for an attack on the 2008 GT Championship this weekend at the Australian Formula 1 Grand Prix. Based on the European race car that competed in the FIA GT3 category, this is the world’s fastest Lotus, fitted with extreme aerodynamic aids and a highly developed 1.8-litre engine based on the same unit in the Exige S road car.

Lazaris competed in selected rounds of the 2006 GT Championship, and has updated the car from 2006 to 2007 specification, improving two key areas to make it more competitive. “We wanted to give it a freshen-up over the off season”, explained Lazaris, “so we used the opportunity to update to the 2007 spec and the performance improvements it offers. We’ve been doing some 20 hour days and the guys have put in a lot of effort just to get it to the F1 support race this weekend.”

Providing some assistance over the weekend will be Russel Gibbons from Lotus Sport UK. Russel was instrumental in the Lotus Exige GT3’s success in the 2006 British GT championship and will bring a vast amount of knowledge and experience to the new team. Russel will be providing assistance to team manager Arthur Magaitis and is also expected to help guide the team with car setup and track tuning.

Lotus Sport UK developed the car following its victory in the 2006 British GT3 Manufacturers Championship. Two major changes were necessary to keep the car competitive for the 2007 season: the reduction of high speed drag, and achieving more power than the 261kW at 7000rpm and 305Nm at 6000rpm from the 1.8-litre four-cylinder engine. Aerodynamic drag has a huge impact on speed. When a car is running at 320km/h, improving its drag coefficient by just 0.007Cd adds 1.6km/h to its speed.

The 2006 race car was based on a road-going Exige with widened wheel arches, but the 2007 body would start with a new design.

It was necessary to increase the frontal area to accommodate the wider track, however the aerodynamic effect was reduced by revising the front radiator inlet and outlet areas, and reducing the cross-sectional areas of both, along with extending the nose forward by approximately 3cm.

Major design changes are more evident on the rear, with the bodywork extending 8cm rearward, widening 10cm and losing almost 3cm in height at the rear deck. The body style also moved to a more conventional ‘fastback’ design. All the body parts were produced in lightweight ZPREG carbon fibre using an innovative mould-making process that features room temperature curing rather than an oven.

The GT3’s rear deck lid has the effect of a sheered-off tail, which reduces aerodynamic wake. Integral rear wheel arch vents have been incorporated into the rear clam.

Another significant change to the body was a result of a mechanical change. The roof scoop that fed cooling air to the engine’s intercooler on the 2006 model was eliminated for 2007, which allows for a cleaner, smoother airflow over the car and rear clamshell. This resulted from a change to a water-to-air intercooler, from the previous air-to-air.

Lotus Engineering’s work on the 1.8-litre VVTL-I four-cylinder Toyota 2ZZ-GE engine has been pushing the boundaries of just what is attainable from a production road car engine. It has evolved from 141kW, to 188kW as fitted to the road registerable (UK) Lotus 2-Eleven, now peaking at a massive 261kW, in 2007 GT3 specification - or an increase of 85 percent.

That’s an 89 percent increase over base specification, and a colossal 148kW per-litre. In comparison a Porsche 997 GT3 generates 83kW/litre and the Aston Martin DBRS9 achieves 62kW/litre in race trim. A Holden Commodore SS road car produces just 45kW/litre.

This will be the second season for aspiring driver Angelo Lazaris as he competes against the likes of Ferrari and Lamborghini. His 2007-spec Exige GT3 will make its debut in this weekend’s round three of the GT Championship, supporting the Australian Formula One Grand Prix.

*Source: Lotus*

Avis now offering Corvette rentals

$164.99 per day now gets you in the driver’s seat of a 2008 Chevrolet Corvette from Avis. The new 2008 model includes a 430hp LS3 6.2L V8 engine with keyless ignition and an engine starter button.

Both coupes and convertibles are available.

Unfortunately, Corvette rentals are only being offered in Arizona, California, Florida, and Las Vegas.

BMW 1-series by Hartge

Hartge has unveiled its new 1-series package, now available from Hartge retailers. Engine upgrades should be coming in the near future, but for now the Hartge package includes suspension, wheel, exterior, and interior upgrades.

The large allow wheels (available in sizes from 8.5×18″ to 9×19″ in a variety of staggered fitments), lower stance, and carbon fiber mirrors lend the 1-series a more aggressive look.

The interior is upgraded with aluminum pedals, a racing-inspired steering wheel, and a choice of leather or carbon fiber accents.

Jaguar XF by Galpin

From the biggest Jaguar dealer in the United States comes this atrocity.

The modifications include a two-tone paint scheme, 22" color-matched Forgiato wheels, blacked-out headlights, tinted glass, and a matching two-tone leather interior.