digital monthly magazine
8
No. June 2013
WELCOME BEAUTY!
BMW Pininfarina Gran Lusso
VW Scirocco Million Fiat Linea
INDY 500
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Read right away! New Ford Fusion (so called in North America and known as Ford Mondeo in the other world markets) offers gasoline, hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains, each with expected top fuel economy, underscoring Ford’s commitment to give customers the power of choice.
It offers hybrid and plug-in hybrid alternatives, a pair of EcoBoost™ four-cylinder engines, a normally aspirated four-cylinder engine, an automatic start stop system to shut off the engine at stationary idle, front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive applications …… Read more at pag. 24
Summary NEWS 4 AUTO Latest news - VIDEO
18 FOCUS FIAT Linea GREEN SIDE 24 THE Ford Fusion Hybrid OF THE MONTH 32 MISS BMW Pininfarina Gran Lusso Coupé
40 CLASSIC The Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este 54 RACING Indianapolis 500 66 ROMEO FERRARIS BULLETIN 70 RACE MARKETING 72 GLOBAL NEWS 76 CORPORATE & FIGURES
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CARS GLOBALMAG automotive digital/magazine published by Doppiovù Press sas Lesmo (Italy) info@carsgm.com www.carsgm.com Monza (Italy) Court Registration nr. 17/2012 of the November 2nd 2012
Chief Editor Vittorio Gargiulo Editorial coordinator Niccolò Gargiulo Graphic design Diego Galbiati Powered by LabelA - Rotterdam (Netherlands) www.labela.nl All rights reserved. All materials present in this application including, but not limited to texts, photographs, illustrations, video clips and other materials are protected by copyrights and/or other intellectual property. The material and content provided in this application is for your personal, non-commercial use only, and you agree not to distribute, copy, extract or commercially exploit such material. You further agree not to reproduce, distribute, perform, display, modify, adapt, translate, prepare derivative works from this application.
AUTO NEWS
A creative month
After the tons of new cars presented during the early year’s auto shows and the many others launched on the market after their presentation, car manufacturers keep on surprising us with several interesting unveilings. Two words lead us into June and towards July: design and creativity. Many models received important restyling facelifts, brand new cars impress for their daring lines, but it is with this month’s concepts that designers deserve global attention.
CITROËN LAUNCHING THE NEW C4 PICASSO: THE TECHNOSPACE
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n expression of Citroën’s Créative Technologie, the “Technospace” ushers in a change of era with strong, expressive design visible in the dynamic lines and high-tech headlights with LED 3D effect rear lights inspired by the Marque’s latest concept cars. A loft-style interior with a bright, uncluttered ambience and materials that contribute to a leap in perceived quality. The new Citroën C4 Picasso delivers a first-class travelling experience with, in particular, an extending Relax seat for greater leg comfort.
Technologies make the trip even more comfortable. The car is equipped with the full touch driving interface and 12” high-definition panoramic screen, as well as other innovations for easy, relaxed driving, such as 360 Vision, Park Assist or active cruise control and active seatbelts. A true concentrate of technologies, the “Technospace” will be priced from Euro 23,050 for petrol models and Euro 24,250 for diesels and come in four trim levels: Attraction, Comfort, Intensive and Exclusive.
ASTON MARTIN CC100 SPEEDSTER CONCEPT
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AUTO NEWS JUNE
ston Martin is celebrating its centenary in world-class style with the debut of the exceptional CC100 Speedster Concept. The CC100 looks both to the past and the DBR1 – Aston Martin’s greatest sporting triumph on the track – and to the future with its teasing glimpses of potential future design direction. The 6.0-litre V12-powered concept car made its world debut by completing a lap of the famous Nordschleife at Germany’s ADAC Zurich 24 Hours of Nürburgring race. Designed and constructed in fewer than six months at Aston Martin’s global headquarters in Gaydon, under the leadership of Special Projects and Motorsport Director David King, the finished look of the two-seater CC100 is the work of Design Director Marek Reichman working alongside the brand’s Chief Exterior Designer Miles Nurnberger. Miles explained: “The brief was very simple, yet enormously testing: create something that reflects the 100 years of Aston Martin heritage and signals the future of the brand. The idea of an iconic speedster concept
that nods to the Le Mans − and Nürburgring – winning cars of 1959 soon came, and we have had complete freedom to shape this car.” Measuring almost four and a half metres nose to tail, and more than two metres wide (including mirrors) the Speedster Concept body is a classic example of the almost infinitely flexible nature of Aston Martin’s trademark Vertical Horizontal engineering philosophy. With a body and interior crafted from carbon fibre, tooled and provided by low volume specialists Multimatic, the CC100 utilises the latest generation AM11 naturally aspirated V12 gasoline engine mated to a six-speed hydraulically actuated automated sequential manual transmission. Controlled via steering columnmounted paddle shifts the lightweight ‘box delivers truly sporting changes perfectly suited to the Speedster’s track-focused nature. The drivetrain will power the CC100 from rest to 62 mph in a little over four seconds, while the top speed is limited to 180 mph.
... AND THE FASTEST ROAD-GOING CAR
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ston Martin’s new V12 Vantage S car replaces the outgoing V12 Vantage in markets around the world and, with the exception of the One-77 hypercar, arrives as the fastest road-going Aston Martin yet offered. Equipped with the new 573 PS Aston Martin AM28 6.0-litre V12 engine, the car is capable of reaching 205 mph. With 620 Nm available at 5,750 rpm – up from 570 Nm previously – the V12 Vantage S is not to be found wanting. Crucially, too, low rev torque – measured at just 1,000 rpm – leaps from 440 Nm to 510 Nm. This serves to both flatten and fatten the torque curve, thereby significantly improving driveability. Race car technology runs right through the DNA of the V12 Vantage S with, for instance, CNC machined combustion chambers and hollow cam shafts just two examples of track technology feeding through to the road. Another clear example is the new gearbox. The Sportshift™III AMT (automated manual transmission) is a major development of the automated manual gearbox that appears in the current V8 Vantage S. Designed and engineered to exploit the full sporting potential of the V12 engine, the new Sportshift™III hydraulically-actuated automated manual transmission provides motorsport-style paddle shift changes for optimum performance delivery and efficiency. The unit
is also appreciably lighter than the outgoing six-speed manual gearbox – saving 25 kg. The debut of three-stage adaptive damping – another ‘first’ for the Vantage family – allows the driver to more precisely tailor the car’s dynamic character. ‘Normal’, ‘Sport’ and ‘Track’ modes provide a broad swathe of dynamic performance that can be tuned to better suit the driver’s requirements. The system also governs the level of power steering assistance offered. The V12 Vantage S has been restyled to reflect is position as the flagship of the new Vantage range. Most noticeable, perhaps, is the car’s grille that does away with the famous aluminium vanes – replacing them with a new carbon fibre arrangement that also includes sporty black carbon fibre or titanium silver mesh. Created to maximise airflow to the V12 engine, the new grille is inspired by that of the remarkable new CC100 Speedster Concept.
THE NEW BMW X5 WILL HIT THE ROAD IN AUTUMN
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he all-new BMW X5 will offer a new model and a first for the original Sports Activity Vehicle, the X5 sDrive35i, which marks the first time that
an X5 model has been offered with rear-wheel drive. It, along with the X5 xDrive35i, will be powered by BMW’s multi-award winning 3.0-liter TwinPower Turbo inline-six. The V8-powered X5 xDrive50i will use BMW’s latest 4.4-liter TwinPower Turbo V8. It offers improvements in horsepower and torque, while at the same time improving efficiency. These models will arrive in showrooms in the fourth quarter of 2013. It ha salso been announced that a new BMW Advanced Diesel model will join the line-up a few months later. The 2nd-generation X5 xDrive35d features a new 3.0-liter TwinPower Turbo inline sixcylinder diesel engine. All models will be equipped with BMW’s latest 8-speed automatic transmission. Finally, the Dynamic Handling Package maximizes both comfort and dynamics. This option combines the components of Dynamic Damper Control, automatic rear self-leveling suspension, Dynamic Performance Control, and Active Roll Stabilization.
5 SERIES IMPROVEMENTS READY TO GO ON SALE IN THE US
AUTO NEWS JUNE
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recise modifications to the cars’ design, new engine variants and innovative additions to the range of available equipment as well as BMW ConnectedDrive technology all raise the appeal of the BMW 5 Series model family. Additional contour lines for the surround of the BMW kidney grille and newly structured lower air intakes reinforce the sporting appearance of the new BMW 5 Series Sedan and new BMW 5 Series Touring. The new BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo boasts a modified front apron exuding presence and solidity. Its redesigned rear end creates a longer and lower-to-theground impression. Xenon headlights are fitted as standard on all models, while Adaptive LED Headlights take their place on the options list for the first time alongside LED fog lamps. A revised rear section increases the boot capacity of the new BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo by 60 litres to 500 litres. New exterior paint colours, light-alloy wheels, upholstery colours and interior trim elements for all the BMW 5 Series models enhance their appeal and increase the scope for individualisation. The market launch of the new BMW 5 Series model family also heralds an expansion of its engine range. For instance, the BMW 518d has been added to the lineup as a new entry-level diesel variant. Its four-cylinder diesel with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology and 105 kW/143 hp can be ordered for both the new BMW 5
Series Sedan and the new BMW 5 Series Touring. Like the BMW 520d Sedan, the BMW 518d Sedan records impressive average fuel economy in the EU test cycle of 4.5 litres per 100 kilometres (62.8 mpg imp) and CO2 emissions of 119 grams per kilometre. And the model range now also includes the BMW 520d xDrive in both Sedan and Touring guises. This increases the number of models equipped with the intelligent allwheel-drive system to seven (in the case of the BMW 5 Series Touring) and eight (for the BMW 5 Series Sedan). Four engine variants of the new BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo can likewise be combined with xDrive. The top-of-the-line engine available for all members of the new BMW 5 Series model family is a new V8 unit with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology developing 330 kW/450 hp. The range of power plants available for the new BMW 5 Series Sedan and new BMW 5 Series Touring now comprises four petrol and six diesel units, and also encompasses two BMW M Performance Automobiles – the BMW M550d xDrive Sedan and BMW M550d xDrive Touring. Customers opting for the new BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo can choose from two petrol power plants and three diesels. The enhanced 2014 BMW 5 Series Sedan and 5 Series Gran Turismo will go on sale at Authorized BMW Centers in the US in August, 2013.
DODGE INTRODUCES NEW DART SPECIAL EDITION PACKAGES
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wo new 2013 Dodge Dart “Special Edition” packages and a new Rallye Appearance Group are available in Dodge dealerships across the United States. For a starting U.S. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price of just $18,590 (all prices exclude $895 destination), the Dodge Dart SXT Special Edition features all the standard equipment on the SXT model, adding a unique black crosshair grille, dark tinted projector headlamps, projector fog lamps, LED racetrack tail lamps, integrated dual exhaust, Uconnect Voice Command with Bluetooth, leather-wrapped steering wheel, cruise control, steering-wheel mounted audio controls and remote start. Along with the SXT Special Edition, Dodge Dart customers can also order the new SXT “Rallye Appearance Group,” which includes a unique black front fascia, Rallye badge and class-exclusive 17-inch Hyper Black aluminum wheels for a U.S. MSRP of just $395.
FIAT 500L FINALLY IN US DEALERSHIPS
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xpanding on the style, efficiency and driving enjoyment that has made the Fiat 500 an icon for nearly 57 years, the all-new 2014 Fiat 500L expands the Cinquecento’s appeal by offering 42 percent extra interior space with comfortable seating for five, engaging driving dynamics and a 160-horsepower 1.4-liter MultiAir Turbo engine with two fuel-saving, six-speed
The already well-equipped Dodge Dart Limited features a starting U.S. MSRP of just $19,995. For an additional U.S. MSRP of $1,810, the Dart “Limited Special Edition” package bundles the most popular premium features for a U.S. MSRP of $21,805. The 2013 Dodge Dart Limited (MSRP of $21,805) is packed with a slew of standard features, including the standard equipment of the SXT model plus many others, addind even more premium luxury features including: premium Nappa Leather seats, heated front seats, heated steering wheel, power sunroof, racetrack LED taillamps, Sirius/XM Satellite radio, Sirius/XM Travel Link, Uconnect 8.4-inch touch screen with Garmin navigation, dual-zone automatic temperature control, remote start and universal garage door opener.
transmissions. All this comfort and technology is wrapped in contemporary Italian design with a starting U.S. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price of $19,100. Designed for customers who want Italian style, versatility, efficiency and personalization options, the all-new 2014 Fiat 500L Pop includes a 1.4-liter MultiAir Turbo engine with six-speed manual transmission, premium Koni frequency selective damping (FSD) front struts and rear shock absorbers, bi-halogen headlamps with daytime running lamps and 16-inch chrome-accented wheel covers. In addition, the Fiat 500L Pop includes the innovative Uconnect 5.0 with its 5-inch touchscreen display. The other trims for the new 2014 Fiat 500L are the “Easy” and “Trekking”, the latter adding a more aggressive style and larger 17 x 7-inch aluminum wheels with wider 225/45R17 all-season tires. Fiat 500L Easy starts at U.S. MSRP of $20,195 while the Treking version has a starting U.S. MSRP of $21,195. The top trim level model is the “Lounge”, tailored for individuals who want their Fiat 500L to reflect their stylish lifestyle and need for premium appointments and convenience technologies. The 500L Lounge comes with innovative Euro Twin Clutch six-speed transmission, 16-inch aluminum wheels and fog lamps, starting at $24,195.
LAMBORGHINI Egoista (selfish)!
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AUTO NEWS JUNE
amborghini Egoista is Walter De Silva’s incredible vehicle, the Head of Design for the Volkswagen Group’s homage to celebrating the House of the Raging Bull’s half century. Indeed the Egoista, is a car forged from a passion for innovation and alternative solutions, the same passion which has always set the Lamborghini brand apart. “This is a car made for one person only, to allow them to
have fun and express their personality to the maximum. It is designed purely for hyper-sophisticated people who want only the most extreme and special things in the world. It represents hedonism taken to the extreme, it is a car without compromises, in a word: egoista (selfish),” De Silva explained. Powered by a 5.2-liter V10 engine supplying it with 600 horsepower, the Lamborghini Egoista is an intentionally extreme and unusual vehicle with absolutely unique characteristics, created by the Volkswagen Group design team – Alessandro Dambrosio responsible for the exterior and Stefan Sielaff for the interior, in particular. The exterior is characterized by two fundamental aspects: its architecture, and the materials used. The
design is determined by a highly muscular structure, in which empty and solid areas fit together with strength and vigor. The bodywork is dominated, on its sides, by the stylized profile of a bull preparing to charge, its horns lowered. The bull is driving towards the front wheels, conferring a futuristic dynamism and lines which are already, in themselves, highly aggressive. The upper part of the vehicle does not have aerodynamic appendages, but rather flaps integrated in the bodywork profile which act automatically depending on the driving conditions. Two rear flaps activate automatically at high speeds to increase stability, while a series of air intakes on the back of the engine hood provides the cooling air flow to the powerful V10 power plant.
The cockpit’s interior is extremely rational, its functionality taken to the extreme. There is a racing seat with a fourpoint seatbelt, each strip a different color, the airbags, and the bare minimum of instruments. The focal point of these is a head-up display, typical of jet fighters. To get out of the vehicle, the driver must remove the steering wheel and rest it on the dashboard, open the dome with an electronic command, stand up in their seat, sit down on a precise point of the left-hand bodywork, then swivel their legs 180 degrees from the inside of the cockpit to the outside of the vehicle. At this point they can set their feet down and stand up. Even in getting out of the vehicle, the Lamborghini Egoista requires a pilot more than a driver, a real top gun.
LOTUS EXIGE S: THE FASTEST EVER LOTUS CONVERTIBLE!
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his summer the critically acclaimed Lotus Exige S loses its roof and gains a new character. As capable as its coupé counterpart, the Exige S Roadster retains all the intent of a race-bred sports car but also possesses the poise of a sleek convertible. Powered by the same 3.5L V6 as the coupé variants and weighing in at 10kg less than the Exige S at 1166kg, none of the exhilarating performance of the phenomenal Exige range is compromised, yet the driver is only ‘two clicks and a roll’ away from cruising in
open-top style thanks to the lightweight, factory-fitted soft top. Achieving 0-60 mph from standing in 3.8 seconds, delivering 345 hp at 7000 rpm (350 PS) and 295 lb ft of torque at 4500 rpm, the Roadster matches the coupé’s mechanical performance Exige S Roadster is now available to order with the full list of options and extras as available on the Exige S coupé, with the extra interior option of quilted leather seats and door trim details. Basic price is around 60,000 euros.
The new MERCEDES-BENZ S-Class
AUTO NEWS JUNE
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ooking at the new Mercedes-Benz S-Class, the radiator grille is now larger, more upright and distinctly three-dimensional in design. With its long bonnet, the flowing, domed roof line and the gently slanting rear end, the new S-Class has classic saloon proportions. The size and space have been fashioned in such a way that the S-Class appears prestigious, and the powerful roof line is also in keeping with the car’s sporty coupé-style intentions. Mercedes-Benz is making a complete switch to LED technology – the new S-Class is the first vehicle in the world whose interior and exterior do without a single light bulb. In its first year the new S-Class line-up features two hybrid versions, a petrol model and a diesel variant: S 400 HYBRID, S 500, S 350 BlueTEC and S 300 BlueTEC HYBRID. All models boast up to 20 percent lower fuel consumption than the outgoing model series. All the engines already meet the requirements of the Euro-6 emissions standard. In addition to this, the S 400 HYBRID and S 350 BlueTEC meet the strict criteria of efficiency class A, while the S 300 Blue-
TEC HYBRID even has an A+ rating. The new S-Class is the world’s first car to be able to detect bumps on the road ahead. If ROAD SURFACE SCAN detects such unevenness by means of the stereo camera, MAGIC BODY CONTROL instantaneously sets up the suspension to deal with the new situation. This innovative suspension system is available as an option for the eight-cylinder models. Standard equipment for the new S-Class includes the continuously operating Adaptive Damping System ADS PLUS and an enhanced version of the full air suspension system AIRMATIC. With numerous world firsts such as the ENERGIZING massage function based on the hot-stone principle or active seat ventilation with reversing fans, Mercedes-Benz has raised seating and climatic comfort in the S-Class to a new level. The ENERGIZING massage function works with 14 separately actuated air cushions in the backrest, as well as an integrated warming function. There is a choice of six massage programmes, two of them using the warming function.
RENAULT LAUNCHES LIMITED EDITION MÉGANE
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enault launched the Mégane Renaultsport Red Bull Racing RB8. Exclusivity is virtually guaranteed by the fact that just 30 are destined to be sold. The exclusive Twilight Blue finish takes its inspiration directly from the race team’s famous colours, while Red Bull Racing graphics at the rear and on the sides are further tell-tale hallmarks of this limited edition car. In addition to its sporty credentials, it stands out as particularly elegant too, thanks to exterior Platinum Grey details (F1 blade, door handles, door mirror housing and rear lip spoiler) which contrast with the striking Twilight Blue paintwork. Inside, the new limited edition version comes with a number of exclusive features,
TWIZY SPORT F1
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t the Barcelona Auto Show Renault showcased its new Twizy Renault Sport F1 concept car for the first time. Twizy Renault Sport F1 sits on the wheels of a single-seater race car and is equipped with a front splitter, side-pods, a rear wing and a diffuser complete with an F1style rain light which forcefully express the concept car’s ties with motor racing’s premier category. In addition to its spectacular look, it delivers genuine high performance thanks to its Kinetic Energy Recovery System (KERS) which is identical to the solution used by Renault-powered Formula 1 race cars. The system instantly boosts power output six-fold to reach almost 100 horsepower and is capable of catapulting the car from standstill to 100 km/h as quickly as Renault’s highest-performing road car, Mégane R.S.
including Red Bull Racing branding on the numbered aluminium kickplates and carpet mats. The same logo appears on the headrests of the Recaro seats which are trimmed in a new leather/fabric upholstery. The limited edition version packs the same fundamental features as Mégane Renaultsport 265 Cup, including stiffer springs, dampers, anti-roll bar, limited slip differential, grooved discs with Brembo callipers and the potent two-litre-turbocharged 265hp engine with Stop&Start and trademark Renaultsport technologies. After the official launch the limited edition Mégane Renaultsport Red Bull Racing RB8 will be available until 30 September 2013.
TWIN’RUN
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he “5” on the doors refers to the R5 Turbo, the emblematic 1980s rally car. A host of details pay homage to this illustrious forerunner, including the design of the headlights and the generous haunches at the back. The four additional, extra-flat headlights with LED technology are a modern-day take on the light racks used in night rally specials. Twin’Run is fitted with the V4Y engine from the Renault-Nissan Alliance, which is used on the road for Laguna, Espace and Latitude, as well as in competition with the Mégane Trophy racer. Mounted longitudinally ahead of the rear axle centreline, the V6 3,498cc powerplant delivers 320hp at 6,800 rpm and torque of 380Nm at 4,850 rpm. The V6 is mated to a SADEV six-speed sequential gearbox with limited slip differential, enhancing Twin’Run stability and traction in curves.
ALL NEW TATA VISTA D90 PRESENTED IN NEPAL
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ata Motors has launched in Nepal, its premium hatchback, the all new Tata Vista D90, an advanced & dynamic car, delivering 90PS of power, offering first-in-class high-tech features. It is powered by a specially tuned Quadrajet diesel engine with Variable Geometry Turbocharger (VGT) technology. The D90’s engine uses the VGT technology, which optimises engine performance at all speeds, resulting in faster throttle response with 200NM Torque and fuel economy of 21.12 KMPL. The D90 engine is perfectly mated to a Euro-tech 2 gearbox, for smooth and comfortable gearshifts to ensure 0-100 KMPH in just 15.5 seconds and a top speed of 158 KMPH. Touchscreen Multimedia, with a multi-colour TFT interface and an in-built GPS system, combines the entertainment, navigation and communication needs. The touchscreen offers GPS navigation features like adjustable day & night mode, saved destination database, voice instruction guidance and optimal route mode. It comes with a multi-media DVD player and Blue5 technology (pair upto 5 mobile phones through
VAUXHALL UNVEILS NEW 576BHP VXR8
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ased on sister company HSV’s new GEN-F GTS, the VXR8 GTS is the most powerful production car ever to emerge from Australia. At the heart of the VXR8 GTS is a new supercharged LSA V8 delivering 576bhp and 545lb ft of torque, an increase of 150bhp and 140lb ft respectively over the outgoing, LS3-engined VXR8.
Bluetooth connectivity). Another technology aboard the D90 is the Advanced Driver Information System and Fuel Computer.A small digital screen provides an instant update on mileage, average fuel consumption, distance-to-empty, ambient temperature and a digital clock. The new Tata Vista D90 is available in five colours Ultra Violet (new), Porcelain White, Spice Red, Cavern Grey and Jet Silver. The Tata Vista D90 ZX PLUS (topend) is priced at NPR 26,95,000.
The VXR8 GTS is fitted with an all-new Brake Torque Vectoring technology. Brake Torque Vectoring helps reduce understeer by generating a ‘rotational moment’ in the rear axle while the car is under power. The Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system detects the understeer, applies braking to the inside rear wheel and transfers torque to the outside rear wheel, preventing the front end from washing wide. The VXR8 GTS also receives third-generation Magnetic Ride Control (MRC) with three independent settings: Touring, Sport and Track. Hardware and software improvements combine to deliver greater body control, sharper handling and a significantly more pliant ride quality, compared with the outgoing model. Wider tyres also offer drivers more grip. Continental 255/35 R20 (front) and 275/35 R20 (rear) were chosen as standard equipment, due to their exceptional performance in both wet and dry conditions. The VXR8 GTS’s braking capacity has been increased with the fitment of AP forged 6-piston calipers with two-piece discs front and rear. The new Vauxhall’s new VXR8 GTS can be ordered in the UK starting at £54,999 with first deliveries at the end of the year.
NEW JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE
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ew exterior and interior design features characterize each single trim level of the 2014 lineup in a unique way and include new bi-xenon headlamps with LED daytime running lights (DRLs), a new design for the wheels and new interior/exterior colour combinations. New, handcrafted interiors add to the quality of the Jeep flagship thanks to the use of premium materials such as Natura Plus leather and high-quality wood. The introduction of a new three-spoke steering wheel add to the exclusive character of the cabin. New contents are also offered in terms of infotainment, offering the new UConnect with 8.4-inch touchscreen and satellite navigation and the all-new for the brand 7� TFT customer configurable cluster display. Exclusive feature of both the top-of-the-range Summit model and the highperformance Grand Cherokee SRT model is a state-of-theart nineteen-speaker, 825-watt Harman Kardon surround sound audio system. The new 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee features a choice of 4x4 systems: Quadra-Trac II and Quadra-Drive II with rear Electronic Limited-slip Differential (ELSD) and the exclusive-to-SRT, Quadra-Trac active on-demand four-wheel-drive system, also featuring rear Electronic Limited Slip Differential (ELSD). The standard-on-Overland and Summit models Quadra-Lift air suspension system allows the ride height of the Grand Cherokee to change up to a maximum
ground clearance of 28 cm. Jeep Grand Cherokee is powered by the efficient 3.0-liter turbo, direct-injection V-6 Common-rail diesel engine fitted with Multijet II Technology and by three petrol engine options: the 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6, the legendary 5.7-liter V-8 and the powerful 6.4-liter HEMIÂŽ V-8 engine that powers the high-performance SRT model. All petrol engines available on the new 2014 Grand Cherokee meet Euro 6 emission standards. The new 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee is available in the Laredo, Limited, Overland and SRT trim levels and in the more exclusive Summit top of the range model. Exterior paints for the 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee include 11 color options. The commercial launch in the European market will start in the month of July.
VOLKSWAGEN SCIROCCO MILLION FOR GERMANY AND CHINA ONLY
AUTO NEWS JUNE
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olkswagen is celebrating the production of one million Scirocco models with a special edition: the Scirocco Million. The special model is on offer exclusively in Germany and China. The production of the special series started at the end of May. The Scirocco Million, painted exclusively in “Deep Black Metallic” can be recognised at first glance by its sporty accent strip (in the middle of the body), the exterior rear mirror caps painted in “Galvanic Grey” and its “Interlagos” 18-inch alloy wheels with 235/40 tyres that are also standard (China: “Spa” 17-inch wheels).
The other standard exterior customisation features include R-Line bumpers, R-Line side sills, smoked tail lights, “Million” stickers on the wings and rear windows that are 90% smoked (China: 65 per cent). The Scirocco Million can be ordered with three different petrol engines (TSI) and two diesel engines (TDI). The TSI have output ratings of 90 kW /122 PS, 118 kW /160 PS and 155 kW /210 PS; the TDIs develop 103 kW/140 PS and 130 kW /177 PS. With the exception of the 122 PS TSI, all engines can be combined with a dual clutch gearbox. The base price of the Scirocco Million will be 27,325 euros in Germany.
VOLKSWAGEN APPRENTICES PRESENT THEIR GTI CABRIO “AUSTRIA”
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utomotive mechatronics technicians, vehicle interior fitters, technical model makers and paint technicians collaborated intensively for a year, from early sketches to a world premiere in Kärnten, Austria. The four women and nine men from 17 to 23 years of age redesigned a standard Golf GTI Cabriolet to their optical and technical specifications. The 2.0 liter engine generates 333 PS / 245 kW. The apprentices realized their white-red colour concept with attention to detail on both the vehicle interior and exterior: they chose Oryx White motherof-pearl effect for the Cabriolet, with Flash Red stripes bordering the bonnet left and right, and on the vehicle’s sides. As a finishing touch, they christened their dream GTI Cabrio “Austria”.
GOLF GTI CONCEPT CLOSES THE GAP BETWEEN ROAD CARS AND RACING CARS
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he GTI meeting at Wörthersee was the stage for the world premiere of the “Design Vision GTI.” An unmatched 370 kW /503 PS Golf concept car. The design team has drawn the C pillars and side sills outward as autonomous body elements, thus creating space for substantially enlarged track widths and specially developed 20-inch wheels (with 235 tyres in the front, 275 tyres in the rear). With 4,253 mm, the “Design Vision GTI” is exactly 15 mm shorter than the production GTI. This explained primarily by the more compact rear apron. The new Golf GTI is not more than 1,442 mm high. This measurement has been once more reduced by 57 mm to 1,385 mm in the “Design Vision GTI.” Last but not least, the concept car is significantly broader: 1,870 mm instead of 1,799 mm. The track widths also fit the picture: For the Wörthersee GTI, it‘s 1,595 mm in the front and 1,579 mm in the rear; the production model, which is already quite self-assured, measures 1,538 (front) and 1,516 mm (rear). Volkswagen has more than doubled the power of the Golf GTI on board of the “Design Vision GTI,” with the 503 PS (at 6,500 rpm). So what‘s working under the bonnet in the front is not a series fourcylinder but a V6 engine. As with the 2.0- litre engine of the production GTI, however, the 3.0 litre engine of the concept car is a TSI – a direct injection petrol engine with turbocharger. In this case, two turbochargers are on board. Two three-way catalytic converters arranged close to the engine optimise emission behaviour. The
V6-TSI develops 500 Nm already in the lower engine speed range (as of 2,000 rpm) and a maximum torque of 560 Nm (between 4,000 rpm and 6,000 rpm). This force is distributed to the front and rear wheels via a dual clutch gearbox (DSG) and an all-wheel drive. After a mere 3.9 seconds, this car is already going 100 km/h fast. In order to slow down the GTI with corresponding power, going 300 km/h fast as mentioned above, Volkswagen uses ceramic brake discs all around. In the front, the brake callipers grip onto 380-mm discs; at the rear, the diameter is 356 mm. Inside the steering wheel is equipped with ergonomically optimised DSG gear shift paddles. And not only that: The driving mode switches are located (“Street,” “Sport” and “Track”) under the cross panels; the start button is on the right. The designers have integrated the switches and rugged turn knobs for climate control as well as the hazard light switch and the activation of the on-board camera in the upper section of the centre console. Avehicle main switch, a push-button for the fire extinguisher and the ESP deactivation are underneath, features that are typical for racing cars. The bottom part of the centre console is dominated by the DSG gear shift – it consists of a vertical handle with dynamic contours, as in racing.
FOCUS
FIAT LINEA
BRAZIALIAN QUEEN
With very elegant and harmonious lines, refined and comfortable interior, technological resources and driving pleasure, Fiat Linea is a Brazilian market top player since its launch
E
ssence 1.8 16V, with Manual or Dualogic transmission is the latest Linea version introduced by Fiat during 2012. Very well equipped, it has basic contents from the former version LX, like on board computer, power steering, dual air bag, air conditioner, fog lights, leather covered steering wheel, electric windows, locks and mirrors, plus the new basic items: ABS brakes, 15� light alloy wheel and instrument panel with Dot Matrix display, which leaves it even more complete, safe, modern and sophisticated.
B
FOCUS - FIAT LINEA
CLIP With the Sublime Special Series, Fiat nears further sophistication and elegance with its Grand Siena and Linea sedans. The project includes a classical and elegant approach without losing the modern and technological aspect of the versions. This Special Series strengthens the make´s presence in the luxury segment, which is still growing in the domestic market. The Sublime Special Series of Fiat Linea also comes from the Essence version (manual or Dualogic gearshift) and, in the same way as the Grand Siena, will only be available in White Kalahari color. Internally get banks lined in brown leather Sabbia, central armrest and outgoing air conditioning for the rear of the cabin. Externally, the Linea Sublime Special Series can be identified by the color and the initials of the Special Series, which are also on doorsteps, and by new light-alloy wheels with 17-inches diamond rim, painted in Grigio Netuno color. It will also receive as standard anti theft kit screws and rear parking sensors.
esides Essence the Manufacturer maintains the sales success version, Absolute 1.8 16V Dualogic, which now arrives with 17” light alloy wheel as basic feature and with no price transfer. This version, which is a sales success, has a list of well complete basic equipment. Among these items, digital air conditioner, leather upholstered seats, Blue&Me, parking sensor, leather covered steering wheel with radio and telephone control, air exhaust for rear seats, front central armrest with object holders, among others. To complete the car’s line, the version T-Jet Turbo 152 cv. It does not suffer alterations and continues with its excellent proposal of specific contents that personalize its sportiveness.
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ith the 2012 line, two new Kits have also arrived for the Essence version: Emotion 1 and Emotion 2. The first bears velvet upholstered seat, front central armrest with object holders, air exhaust for rear seat, front reading lights with spot, tinted windows and chromium-plated edge (all this for only R$ 500.00). Emotion 2 contains the aforementioned contents with the difference that the seat is partially leather upholstered.
CLIP Linea sales figures in Brasil year by year Year 2012 2011 2010 2009 2008
Sales in Brazil 8,287 12,268 12,100 14,714 2,930
F
iat Linea is a well equipped automobile, with technological contents like Blue&Me NAV, front side bags + window bags and automatic pilot plus twilight and rain sensors. The Brazilian owner of a Fiat Linea receives much more than a mere automobile. Besides the three-year contractual guarantee, the customer also gains a permanently open relationship and line of communication, with exclusive benefits from Clube L’Unico, which adds unique and differentiated sales and postsales services. As member of a special club, the Linea customer receives, even, exclusive invitations to shows and events. It also counts on a special Confiat version, valid during the guarantee’s three-year validity: a specialized professional will look for and bring along the vehicle (at the owner’s home or office) for the execution of maintenance and checkups.
FOCUS - FIAT LINEA
CLIP The biggest Fiat S.p.A company in Brazil, Fiat Automóveis represents about 30% of the Fiat Group Automobiles’ production in the world. Brazil is the company’s main market, and also the headquarters to the of the Group’s largest automobile plant. Installed in Betim IN 1976, Fiat Automóveis has capacity to produce 800,000 vehicles a yea, and its new investment plan will raise the capacity to 950,000 units a year until 2014.
FIAT LINEA TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS Engine Position Number of cylinders Total cylinder capacity Maximum power (ABNT/regime) Maximum torque (ABNT/regime) Number of valves per cylinder Fuel System Fuel Electronic injection Transmission Number of speeds Gear ratio Differential gear ratio Drive Clutch Type Brake System Service Front Rear Front Suspension Type Dampers Elastic element Rear Suspension Type Dampers Elastic element Steering Type Minimum turning radius Wheels and Tires Wheels Tires Vehicle Weight Kerb (Std A) Load capacity Maximum towable weight (unbraked towing) External Dimensions Length Width Height (empty) Distance between axles Front track Rear track Minimum height from the ground (empty) Baggage compartment Fuel tank Performance Maximum speed 0 to 100Km/h Consumption (Standard NBR 7024) Highway driving City driving Ignition Type
Linea Essence 1.8 16V E.TorQ
Linea Essence 1.8 16V E.TorQ Dualogic
Linea Essence 1.8 16V E.TorQ Dualogic
front / trasversal 4 in line 1.747 cc cv 130 (gasoline) / 132 (ethanol) at 5.250 rpm kfg.m 18,4 (gasoline) / 18,9 (ethanol) at 4.500 rpm 4 Gasoline/Ethanol Magneti Marelli
Gasoline/Ethanol Magneti Marelli, multiponto, seqüencial
Gasoline/Ethanol Magneti Marelli, multiponto, seqüencial
5 1ª 3,909 / 2ª - 2,238 / 3ª - 1,520 / 4ª - 1,156 / 5ª - 0,919 / Reverse 3,909 3,867 Front wheel drive Single disc clutch Hydraulic with ABS 284 mm ventilated discs 251 mm discs MacPherson with independent rods, stabilizer bar Hydraulic Coil spring Semi-independent rods Hydraulic Coil spring Hydraulic 10,9 m 6.0JX15 195/65 R15
6.0JX15 195/65 R15
6.5JX16 205/55 R16
1310 Kg 400 Kg 400 Kg
1315 Kg 400 Kg 400 Kg
1325 Kg 400 Kg 400 Kg
4.560 mm 1.730 mm 1.505 mm 2.603 mm 1.476 mm 1.482 mm
4.560 mm 1.730 mm 1.505 mm 2.603 mm 1.476 mm 1.482 mm
4.560 mm 1.730 mm 1.505 mm 2.603 mm 1.476 mm 1.482 mm
500 litros 60 litros
500 litros 60 litros
500 litros 60 litros
190 km/h (gasoline) / 192 km/h (ethanol) 10,3 s (gasoline) / 9,9 s (ethanol)
THE GREEN SIDE
2013 FORD FUSION HYBRID
DEVELOPED TO SATISFY
New Ford Fusion (so called in North America and known as Ford Mondeo in the other world markets) offers gasoline, hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains, each with expected top fuel economy, underscoring Ford’s commitment to give customers the power of choice. Featuring a sleek silhouette and fresh face, the all-new Fusion is the latest in a series of vehicles from Ford developed to satisfy customers everywhere who want leading fuel efficiency, helpful technologies and game-changing looks.
F
ord Fusion is sold in North America in S, SE and range-topping Titanium series and it aims to be the first sedan to offer gasoline, hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions. Fusion brings the broadest selection of fuelefficient powertrains in the midsize car segment. It offers hybrid and plug-in hybrid alternatives, a pair of EcoBoost™ four-cylinder engines, a normally aspirated four-cylinder engine, an automatic start stop system to shut off the engine at stationary idle, front-wheel drive and allwheel drive applications, and a choice between automatic and manually shifted six-speed transmissions.
THE GREEN SIDE - 2013 FORD FUSION HYBRID
The 1.6-liter EcoBoost is expected to deliver best-inclass four-cylinder non-hybrid fuel efficiency of 26 mpg in the city and 37 mpg on the highway as the 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine – paired with a paddle-shifted sixspeed SelectShift Automatic™ transmission, available 19-inch wheels and tires, and all-wheel drive with the ability to send additional torque to the rear – is the Fusion performance option.
Fusion Hybrid also features an all-new 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder gasoline engine, significantly downsized from the previous 2.5-liter unit while maintaining performance standards. Topping the fuel-efficiency ladder is the Fusion Energi plug-in hybrid, aiming to be the most fuel-efficient midsize car in the world.
CLIP
To be noted that the Fusion Hybrid continues to innovate and evolve with all-new lithium-ion batteries that save weight and generate more power than previous nickelmetal hydride batteries, while raising maximum speed under electric-only power from 47 mph to 62 mph. More than 95 percent of the energy normally lost through braking can be recovered and stored in the battery via the electric drive.
“This really is a driver’s car - said John Jraiche, program manager - Fusion is even more fun to drive with specially tuned electric power-assisted steering (EPAS), a MacPherson strut front suspension and an all-new premium-level multilink rear suspension – comparable to Audi and BMW configurations”. Fusion is actually produced at Ford’s Hermosillo, Mexico, manufacturing facility, soon adding production at AutoAlliance International Plant in Flat Rock, Mich.
The next-generation Fusion 1.6-liter is the first automatic-transmission Ford product offered with an automatic start stop system. It shuts off engine power smoothly when the car is stopped and seamlessly restarts as the driver releases the brake pedal, helping Fusion to reduce fuel consumption and emissions by approximately 3.5 percent.
Fusion looks out for you The all-new Fusion offers an unprecedented portfolio of driver assistance and convenience technologies based on sensors, cameras and radar that enable the car to see and respond. Fusion can help drivers maintain proper lane position, adjust vehicle speed to changing traffic conditions, identify suitable parking spaces and help park, even aiding drivers backing out of parking space where visibility is obstructed. Specific technologies include: s ,ANE +EEPING 3YSTEM 4HIS CLASS EXCLUSIVE TECHNOLOGY consists of three elements to help a driver maintain proper lane position. Using a small, forward-facing camera behind the inside rearview mirror, the system “looks� down the road, monitoring lane lines to determine that the car is on course. The system will alert a driver if drowsiness or erratic lane-keeping is detected. The second element warns a driver with a steering wheel vibration if the Fusion drifts too close to lane markings. Finally, lane keeping aid will actually apply pressure on the steering to help bring the car back into proper lane position. s !DAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL 5SING FORWARD LOOKING RAdar, this system “looks� down the road when activated, slowing the Fusion when slower traffic is detected ahead. Adaptive cruise control enables collision warning with brake support to help slow the car if the potential of a crash is detected.
THE GREEN SIDE - 2013 FORD FUSION HYBRID
s !CTIVE PARK ASSIST EMPLOYING SENSORS THIS TECHNOLOGY can identify a suitable parallel parking space, calculate the trajectory and steer the car to properly position it within the spot. All a driver need do is operate accelerator and brake pedals. s "LIND 3POT )NFORMATION 3YSTEM ",)3 WITH cross-traffic alert. Sensors in both Fusion rear quarter-panels are able to detect traffic in a driver’s blind spot, providing both audible and visual warnings if traffic – unseen by the driver – is detected. BLIS technology enables cross-traffic alert, warning the driver of oncoming traffic when backing out of a parking space with obstructed views, such as between two large vans.
The power of voice The all-new Fusion offers the latest iteration of Ford’s communications and entertainment system (SYNC), which enables voice-activated communication through a driver’s mobile phone and interaction with the car’s audio system. &USION ALSO OFFERS THE LATEST VERSION OF -Y&ORD 4OUCH
allowing a driver to interact with vehicle systems through voice control, a touch screen tap or a conventional button. Both SYNC and MyFord Touch – powered by SYNC – help reduce the potential for driver distraction through voice-controlled functionality, allowing drivers to keep hands on the wheel and eyes on the road.
CLIP Driven by strong sales of two of Ford’s newest vehicles, the Ford Fusion and Escape, Ford’s share of the “super segment,� comprised of subcompacts, compacts, midsize sedans and small utilities, stands at 13 percent through the first four months of 2013 – representing a gain of 2 share points compared to the same period last year. Combined, these four segments represent more than half of all new vehicle sales in the U.S.
Different, by design Fusion signals the next evolution in Ford global design language for midsize cars and smaller. The following elements provided direction for the design team behind the all-new Fusion: s 3ILHOUETTE INNOVATION &USION S SLEEK PROlLE SETS IT apart from the powertrain/cabin/trunk “three-box� designs synonymous with midsize sedans. s 0ERCEIVED EFlCIENCY &USION CHARACTER LINES SWEEPING to the rear and thin roof pillars suggest the car is nimble and light on its feet. s 4ECHNICAL GRAPHICS &USION S FUNCTIONAL DESIGN ELEMENTS such as headlamps, LED taillamps and polished exhaust tips communicate enhanced technological capability.
Inside, the new Fusion offers a sporty, driver-oriented environment with next-generation seating that brings expanded functionality. A higher center console supports the driver-centric theme and yields clever storage for items a driver wants to keep handy. Additional passenger space was designed-in by moving the instrument panel toward the windshield, contributing to the cabin’s airy, open environment. Thinner, lighter frames support the comfortable next-generation seats trimmed with fabric using recycled sustainable yarns.
Craftsmanship plus dynamics equals “feel” Fusion design delivers on the promise of high visual quality, with improved materials, elevated levels of craftsmanship and attention to detail. Interior surfaces are softer to the touch and interior and exterior gaps are minimized, while extra care has been taken to upholster or cover each edge and every surface a customer can touch. When the trunk lid is opened, for example, a spring-loaded cover automatically conceals the trunk latch hardware. Careful tuning by Ford’s vehicle handling and ride team has yielded a Fusion with a dynamic character that will please a well-seasoned enthusiast while increasing the confidence level of lessexperienced drivers. Fusion interior quiet reaches a new level with acoustic underbody shields and weight-saving sound-absorption material; both minimize road and powertrain noise while boosting aerodynamic efficiency to help save fuel. The all-new model adds content such as a full-perimeter hood seal to be among the midsize sedan segment leaders in giving drivers a quiet ride. Fusion Hybrid and Fusion Energi models also are equipped with active noise control. This feature uses the audio system to mitigate extraneous road noise while enhancing powertrain sounds. Strength and safety
THE GREEN SIDE - 2013 FORD FUSION HYBRID
Fusion is designed with customer safety in mind. Engineers increased its body strength by 10 percent, using more high-strength steels such as boron, and added
CLIP All-new Ford Fusion Hybrid Titanium adds premium amenities and technology to the most fuel-efficient midsize family sedan in America. Standard features include leather interior, premium Sony® audio system and MyFord Touch®. Customers can select a Fusion Titanium model with either a hybrid powertrain or the 2.0-liter EcoBoost® all-wheel-drive powertrain for the same base price of $32,995
dual first-row knee airbags and adaptive front airbags that vent and tether to conform to a specific occupant’s size, position and seatbelt usage. One of the most prominent examples is Fusion’s frontend architecture, as the same car must face simultaneous – and seemingly conflictive – standards across regions. The car’s front end is equipped to meet head-on and offset barrier standards for North America while still conforming to European standards for pedestrian protection – thanks to hours of computer modeling and 180 validating crash tests.
all pictures © Ford Motor Company
2013 FORD FUSION HYBRID TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS Four-door sedan BODY
Construction Final assembly location
Unitized steel body Hermosillo, Mexico
POWERTRAIN AND CHASSIS Type ENGINE Manufacturing location Configuration Valvetrain Bore x stroke Displacement Compression ratio Engine horsepower Engine torque Total system power Fuel injection Fuel capacity Oil capacity Exhaust
2.0-liter DOHC inline four-cylinder, Atkinson cycle Chihuahua, Mexico Aluminum block and head DOHC, four valves per cylinder, intake variable camshaft timing (iVCT) 87.55 mm x 83.1 mm 122 cu. in./1,999 cc 12.3:1 141 hp @ 6,000 rpm 129 lb.-ft. @ 4,000 rpm 188 hp Sequential multiport electronic 13.5 gallons 4.5 quarts with filter Single Chrome-Tipped with Catalytic Converter
ELECTRIC MOTOR /GENERATOR
Type Horsepower Torque
Permanent magnet AC synchronous motor 118 hp @ 6,000 rpm / 88kW @ 6,000 rpm 177 lb.-ft./240 Nm
TRANSMISSION
Type
HF35 eCVT hybrid powersplit transaxle
HIGH VOLTAGE BATTERY FUEL ECONOMY
Type
Lithium-ion
SUSPENSION
Front Front shocks Rear Rear shocks
MacPherson-strut suspension with stabilizer bar Gas pressurized ControLink rear suspension with stabilizer bar Gas pressurized
STEERING
Type Steering ratio Turning circle, curbto-curb
Electric power-assisted steering (EPAS), rack-and-pinion 14.8:1 37.5 ft.
BRAKES
Type Standard four-channel, four-wheel disc (ABS+ESC) (regenerative) Front brake rotor diameter, thickness 300mm x 20 mm Rear brake rotor diameter, thickness 302 mm x 11 mm
TRACTION CONTROL
4YPE
!DVANCE4RAC WITH 2OLL 3TABILITY #ONTROL 23#
WHEELS AND TIRES
SE
7.5 x 17-in. aluminum, 235/50R-17 BSW (low-rolling resistance)
DIMENSIONS (inches unless otherwise noted) INTERIOR EXTERIOR Seating capacity Wheelbase 112.2 First row headroom Length 191.8 First row legroom, maximum Width (excluding mirrors) 72.9 First row shoulder room Width (including mirrors) 83.5 First row hip roo m Height 58.2 Second row headroom Track, front/rear 62.3/62 Second row legroom Second row shoulder room Second row hip room
Five 39.2 44.3 57.8 55 37.8 38.3 56.9 54.4
WEIGHTS AND CAPACITES Base curb weight Total passenger volume (cu. ft.) Total luggage capacity (cu. ft.)
3,615 lbs. 102.8 12
MISS OF THE MONTH
BMW PININFARINA GRAN LUSSO COUPÉ
LUXURY AND ELEGANCE
With the BMW Pininfarina Gran Lusso Coupé, the two time-honoured companies unveiled the outcome of their first collaboration at the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este 2013. The BMW Pininfarina Gran Lusso Coupé is a one-off and represents the exclusive interpretation of a luxurious BMW Coupé as seen through the eyes of Pininfarina. The car exudes balance and harmony: BMW values such as technology, dynamics and precision are complemented by the skilled craftsmanship of Pininfarina to create a very special holistic experience.
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ith its broad, wheel-focused stance, the front of the BMW Pininfarina Gran Lusso Coupé radiates sheer presence and dynamics. The hallmark double-kidney grille and the road-focused headlights with their suggested twin circular look reveal at a glance the family bond with BMW. At the same time the distinctive Pininfarina elements have been interpreted with Italian finesse to lend the front end a special flair. The trademark BMW kidney grille forms the central element of the front-end design, and all surfaces and lines take their bearings from it. It symbolically points to the engine at the heart of the vehicle, its size reflecting the power of the V12 unit nestling behind it. The “kidneys” are angled towards the road, citing the typical BMW “shark nose” and lending the front end an even more dynamic look, particularly when seen from the side. Viewed up close it discloses highly accomplished detail work: the front part of the bipartite kidney grille is made of mattsheen aluminium, while behind it an identically shaped part in high-gloss black adds visual depth and makes for an exciting contrast of materials. Above the kidney grille the bonnet stretches across the front of the car, its subtle contours appearing to emanate from the BMW emblem and lending the bonnet a dynamic elegance. The eye-catchingly sporty front apron concludes the front end of the car as it dips towards the road. The flat, onepiece air intake accentuates the breadth of the front, an impression reinforced by chrome trim that adds a classy touch. The air intake is larger at the wheels and draws attention to the car’s wide, sporty track. Just above the road surface, discreet Pininfarina lettering points to the contributing partner from Italy, like a signature on a work of art.
MISS OF THE MONTH - BMW PININFARINA GRAN LUSSO COUPÉ
Elegant sculpture The car’s surfaces display the elaborate form language of BMW while being sculpted with a clarity that is hallmark Pininfarina. Within a powerfully present silhouette, convex taperings on the side add a dynamic elegance and give the body a tautly athletic shape. At the same time the reduced, precise contours stretch the vehicle and underline its exclusivity with a contemporary touch. The high shoulder line extends almost horizontally along the entire side of the car, imbuing the BMW Pininfarina Gran Lusso Coupé with stature and presence. Above it the long roof line flows elegantly into the rear to define the short tail end. Below the shoulder line, a striking countersweep to the roof line emanates from the Air Breather behind the front wheel. Ascending towards the rear, it lends the back section of the car a light and dynamic appearance.
The exclusively designed 21-inch wheels perfectly augment the sporty, elegant statement made by the BMW Pininfarina Gran Lusso Coupé. Five trios of graceful yet powerfully sculpted spokes display a strong visual depth through the application of matt-sheen aluminium, black and black chrome.
CLIP Pininfarina ranks as one of the most timehonoured names in automotive design. What began in the 1930s as a “carrozzeria� building one-offs and limited editions, alongside the visual refinement of high-end automotive technology, has today become one of Italy’s leading design companies. Its operating spectrum stretches far beyond automobiles to include product and industrial design. Through numerous collaborations with a wide range of carmakers, Pininfarina has established itself as a style-defining partner.
MISS OF THE MONTH - BMW PININFARINA GRAN LUSSO COUPÉ
CLIP
The rear view
As a global company, the BMW Group operates 28 production and assembly facilities in 13 countries and has a global sales network in more than 140 countries. The Group is one of the leading manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles in the world with its BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce brands. In 2012, the BMW Group sold about 1.85 million cars and more than 117,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax for the financial year 2012 was euro 7.82 billion on revenues amounting to euro 76.85 billion. At 31 December 2012, the BMW Group had a workforce of 105,876 employees. The BMW Group has been ranked industry leader in the Dow Jones Sustainability Indexes for the last eight years.
The elongated side profile leads to a slender and elegant tail end. Striking horizontal elements imbue the entire rear end with a very broad, flat impression. At the same time, the generous surface design of the rear lends it a powerful presence. Between the surfaces, precise contours and horizontal lines break up the rear aspect, resulting in a clever interplay of light and shadow that partitions the entire design and brings it alive. An eyecatching detail is the transition from the roof to the rear lid: two elaborately shaped struts extend the roof pillar towards the rear, ensuring an elegantly fluid transition of the roof line into the tail section. Extending from the sides, the tail lights embrace the rear end in a single sweeping gesture that brings the side and rear together visually. The tail lights reveal elaborately detailed workmanship and lend the BMW L-shape a slender, almost filigree interpretation. They are set – jewel-like – within high-grade trim in matt-sheen aluminium. A particular highlight is their open design, allowing air to flow through them.
The interior The interior of the BMW Pininfarina Gran Lusso Coupé takes up the accomplished fusion of modern elegance and authoritative dynamics. With a special colour concept, choice materials and geometrical details in the doors, centre console and dashboard binnacle, Pininfarina lends further emphasis to signature BMW elements such as the driver focus and layering principle, while accentuating the sporty character of the interior with a fine instinct for cutting-edge and elegant details alike. The front and rear seats from the Pininfarina drawing board embrace all occupants with sporty side supports while providing the highest levels of comfort. From the driver’s seat, a sideward glance will initially reveal the hallmark BMW driver focus: all driving-related functions and controls are slightly angled towards the driver to be within optimal ergonomic reach. The horizontal alignment of the surfaces and lines of the dashboard create an expansive sense of space. The doors take up the flow of lines and invest them with greater dynamics as they follow their course, while the door handles cite the incisive shape of the tail lights as well as the side-panel embellishments as they bring these styling cues into the interior. The rear of
the cabin likewise boasts spacious design, with legroom in the back seats of this Coupé almost on a par with that of a large luxury sedan. Extensive handcraftsmanship further enhances the interior ambience. Finest leather and kauri wood aged more than 48,000 years lend the cabin of the BMW Pininfarina Gran Lusso Coupé a special aura. The high-grade leather from the Foglizzo leather factory – in black and a light shade of Tobacco Brown – creates a warm, exclusive ambience. Metal highlights in black chrome set a technical counterpoint to the extensive application of natural materials.
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MISS OF THE MONTH - BMW PININFARINA GRAN LUSSO COUPÉ
All the wood elements in the cabin are sourced from a single piece of kauri wood selected by the Italian timber experts of Riva 1920 exclusively for the BMW Pininfarina Gran Lusso Coupé. Kauri wood has a unique grain and shifts in colour from gold to red to brown, depending on the incidence of light and angle of view. Simply polished and oiled, it exudes a particular warmth and naturalness in league with the exclusive leather surfaces of the interior. Native to New Zealand, kauri wood is among the rarest timbers in the world. Its special character derives from the fact that the toppled kauri trees have been preserved in swamps for millennia and can be processed like fresh timber after being retrieved from the fossil swampland.
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he roof liner of finest Italian virgin wool features the striking “Principe di Galles” pattern. This grey plaid strikes a bold contrast to the traditional materials used for the doors and dashboard. The brown leather seats also pick up on the pattern in their all-round piping. Allowing extra light into the interior is an oblong aperture in the roof liner which is additionally illuminated by white LEDs. In the footwell areas, a soft deep-pile carpet in dark grey adds to a subtle sense of wellbeing. Another interior detail are the freestanding Bpillars, whose elegant design when viewed from the outside creates a homogeneous glazed area and frameless doors that appear very light.
CLASSIC
Elegance… what else ?
Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este 2013 provides an enthralling experience for thousands of fans of historic cars. The backdrop and atmosphere of Lake Como, coupled with the exquisite line-up of vehicles and the enthusiasm of the spectators, ensure that the Days of Elegance in Cernobbio are without parallel.
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housands of visitors had once again travelled to the shores of Lake Como for this tradition-steeped event in the grounds of Villa d’Este and Villa Erba to delight in an ultra-exclusive line-up of historical cars and motorcycles. The jury and assembled galleries crowned the “Days of Elegance” by selecting the prize-winners from the numerous high-calibre examples of historical automotive art. The jury awarded the Trofeo BMW Group for “best of show” to the Bugatti 57SC Atlantic from 1938 as well as it won the Coppa d’Oro Villa d’Este prize decided by public referendum. The Concept Cars and Prototypes class was headed by the Alfa Romeo Disco Volante by Touring.
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he Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este 2013 brought together 50 cars and 35 motorcycles from widely varying eras in automotive history. In addition, six concept vehicles and prototypes went on show, each representing their own distinctive perspective on forwardthinking automotive design. This link between traditional and future-focused aesthetics in vehicle construction once again defined the character of the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este as a fascinating stage for historical highlights and visions of future mobility.
Mr. Ralph Lauren and his Bugatti 57SC Atlantic Coupé (1938)
CLASSIC - CONCORSO D’ELEGANZA VILLA D’ESTE 2013
Ferrari 250 GT Tour de France (1958)
Lagonda LG45 Rapide (1937)
Aston Martin DB4 GT (1961)
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he Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este was held for the first time in 1929 in Cernobbio, northern Italy. Since 1999 the event has taken place in the grounds of the Grand Hotel Villa d’Este and Villa Erba under the patronage of the BMW Group. This year the Concorso di Motociclette, launched successfully in 2011, adopted the “90 years of BMW Motorrad” anniversary as its focal point.
Alfa Romeo Disco Volante 2013 Touring
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CLASSIC - CONCORSO D’ELEGANZA VILLA D’ESTE 2013
Alfa Romeo Zagato Stradale TZ3 The version of this coupé on display at the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este 2013 is the last of a run of nine cars from the Carrozzeria Zagato design studio. The first example was presented in 2010 to mark “100 years of Alfa Romeo Racing”. The latest variant features a carbon body, an aerodynamically optimised rear modelled on the legendary 1930s designs of German engineer Wunibald Kamm, and a 10-cylinder engine (SRT Viper) with 8.4 litres displacement and output of around 600 hp.
Fiat 8 V (1953)
Jaguar XKSS (1956)
Maserati A6G54 (1955) Alfa Romeo 6C 1750 Gran Sport (1931)
CLASSIC - CONCORSO D’ELEGANZA VILLA D’ESTE 2013
Mercedes-Benz 500K (1936)
Mercedes-Benz 680S (1928)
Mercedes-Benz 540K (1938)
Rolls-Royce Wraith (1938)
CLASSIC - CONCORSO D’ELEGANZA VILLA D’ESTE 2013
Rolls-Royce Phantom II Continental (1933)
Bentley S1 Continental (1959)
Ferrari 250 GT SWB California (1961)
Ferrari 250 LM (1964)
Ferrari 250 GT SWB (1961)
CLASSIC - CONCORSO D’ELEGANZA VILLA D’ESTE 2013
Talbot-Lago T26 Grand Sport (1949)
Ferrari Dino 166 206P (1965)
ROLL OF HONOUR 2013 Trofeo BMW Group Best in Show by the Jury Bugatti, 57SC Atlantic, Coupé, Jean Bugatti, 1938, Ralph Lauren, USA Coppa d’Oro Villa d’Este Best of Show by Public Referendum at Villa d’Este Bugatti, 57SC Atlantic, Coupé, Jean Bugatti, 1938, Ralph Lauren, USA Trofeo BMW Group Italia By Public Referendum at Villa Erba Bugatti, 57SC Atlantic, Coupé, Jean Bugatti, 1938, Ralph Lauren, USA Trofeo BMW Group Ragazzi By Young People’s Referendum at Villa Erba (until the age of 16) Bugatti, 57SC Atlantic, Coupé, Jean Bugatti, 1938, Ralph Lauren, USA
Class G: Speed and Style Ferrari, 250 LM, Berlinetta, Pininfarina, 1964, Lionshead West Collection, USA Mention of Honour Ferrari, 250 GT Tour de France, Berlinetta, Scaglietti, 1958, Peter McCoy, USA Class H: Lamborghini Lamborghini, 350 GTS, Spider, Touring, 1965, Emanuel Reich, Austria Mention of Honour Lamborghini, 350 GTV, Coupé, Scaglione, 1963, Albert Spiess, Switzerland
Concorso d’Eleganza Design Award for Concept Cars & Prototypes By Public Referendum at Villa Erba Touring Superleggera, Alfa Romeo Disco Volante by Touring, Coupé, 2013, Melvin Goh, Italy
Class I: Racing improves the breed Ferrari, Dino 166P/206P, Spider, Ferrari, 1965, Andreas Mohringer, Austria Mention of Honour Ferrari, 250 GT Tour de France, Berlinetta, Scaglietti, 1956, Martin Gruss, USA
CLASS WINNERS AND MENTION OF HONOUR
SPECIAL TROPHIES
Class A: Kings Of The Road Mercedes-Benz, 680S, Torpedo Roadster, Saoutchik, 1928, Paul Andrews, USA Mention of Honour Rolls-Royce, Phantom II Continental, Sedanca (3-Position) Drophead Coupé, Gurney Nutting, 1933, Jay Moore, USA
Trofeo FIVA To the best preserved pre war-car Rolls-Royce, Phantom I, OpenTourer Boattail, Jarvis, 1928, Alexander Schaufler, Austria
Class B: Thoroughbreds Bugatti, 57SC Atlantic, Coupé, Jean Bugatti, 1938, Ralph Lauren, USA Mention of Honour Mercedes-Benz, 500K, Spezial Roadster, Mercedes-Benz Sindelfingen, 1936, Evert Louwman, Netherland
Trofeo ASI To the best preserved post war-car BMW, M1, Coupé, Giugiaro, 1980, Detlef Hübner, Germany Trofeo Automobile Club di Como To the car driven from farthest away Bentley, S1 Continental, Drophead Coupé, Park Ward, 1959, Dean Kronsbein Germany
Class C: Transitions Ferrari, 500 Superfast, Berlinetta, Pininfarina, 1964, Lucas Laureys, Belgium Mention of Honour Talbot-Lago, T26 Grand Sport, Cabriolet, Franay, 1949, Michael Kaufmann, Austria
SPECIAL PRIZES BY THE JURY
Class D: Aston Martin Aston Martin, DB4 SS, Saloon, Touring, 1962, Jean-Pierre Slavic, Switzerland Mention of Honour Aston Martin, DB4 GT, Coupé, Zagato, 1961, David Eyles, United Kingdom
Trofeo Rolls-Royce To the most elegant Rolls-Royce by the Jury Rolls-Royce, Phantom II Continental, Sedanca (3-Pos.) Drophead Coupé, Gurney Nutting, 1933, Jay Moore, USA
Class E: Prancing Horse Vs Trident Ferrari, 250 GT SWB, Berlinetta, Scaglietti, 1961, Destriero Collection, Montecarlo Mention of Honour Ferrari, 250 GT SWB California, Spider, Scaglietti, 1961, Claudio Caggiati, Italy Class F: California Dreamin’ Jaguar, XKSS, Spider, Jaguar, 1956, Peter Neumark, United Kingdom Mention of Honour Siata, 208S, Spider, Motto, 1954, James Utaski, USA
Trofeo BMW Group Classic For the most sensitive restoration by the Jury Talbot-Lago, T14 LS Coupé, Letourneur et Marchand, 1956, David Buchanan, USA
Trofeo Vranken Pommery To the best iconic car by the Jury Porsche, 356 A, Speedster, Reutter, 1957, Ni Peng Loh, China Trofeo Foglizzo The best interior design by the Jury Fiat, 8 V, Coupé, Rapi, 1953, Bruce Vanyo, USA Trofeo Roeckl For the best overall appearance of car, driver and passenger by the Jury MG, Magnette K3, Sports Roadster, MG, 1933, Peter Briggs, Australia Trofeo Auto & Design To the most exciting design by the Jury Bugatti, 57SC Atlantic, Coupé, Jean Bugatti, 1938, Ralph Lauren, USA
CLIP
CLASSIC - CONCORSO D’ELEGANZA VILLA D’ESTE 2013
Pininfarina Sergio Following its world premiere at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show, the Pininfarina Sergio sports car study was showcased on Lake Como. This open two-seater measuring 4.55 metres in length is a contemporary take on a two-seater Barchetta and at the same time a homage to Sergio Pininfarina, founder of the eponymous Italian coachbuilders, who died in 2012. The individual design of the concept car is principally defined by its rudimentary roof that extends from the rear to just over the seats, along with the absence of a windscreen and side windows. When opened, its doors swing diagonally upwards. The technology behind the Pininfarina Sergio hails from the Ferrari 458 Spider, with power provided by a V8 engine with a displacement of 4.5 litres and 570 hp.
RACING by Niccolò Gargiulo
THE GREATEST SPECTACLE IN RACING
In a race that featured an astonishing 68 racerecord lead changes among a race-record 14 drivers, the popular Brazilian Tony Kanaan earned the victory in the 97th Indianapolis 500 at the famed Indianapolis Motor Speedway. His average speed of 187.433 was the fastest Indianapolis 500.
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ony Kanaan realized a dream that began decades earlier that took him from Brazil to Europe to America. Kanaan cruised to the checkered flag under caution when three-time champion Dario Franchitti’s car made contract with the barrier on a lap 197 restart. He found himself in front after he and rookie Carlos Munoz overtook race leader Ryan Hunter-Reay entering turn 1 on the restart for a lap 194 on-track incident involving Graham Rahal. It was immediately clear that the 2013 Indy 500 was going to be a good one, and a fast one indeed! After Hildebrand’s crash on lap 4 the leading cars kept battling for first position till the end offering a spectacle that will be remebered in time and easily breaking the lead changes record (the lead changed 68 times, doubling the record of 34 set in 2012!).
Pictures courtesy of INDYCAR
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here were just 21 caution-flag-laps, the fewest in an Indianapolis 500 that went the full distance since caution-flag laps were recorded beginning in 1976, that helped Tony Kanaan set a new record winning speed at 187.433 mph, breaking the previous mark of 185.981 set by Arie Luyendyk in 1990. Kanaan has won the race for the first time in 12 career starts becoming the fourth Brazilian driver to win the Indianapolis 500. The other three are Helio Castroneves (2001, 2002, 2009), Emerson Fittipaldi (1989, 1993), and Gil de Ferran (2003).
Ryan Hunter-Reay and To
Marco Andretti
RACING -足 INDIANAPOLIS 500
Conor Daly and Takuma Sato
JR Hildebrand crashes on lap 4
ny Kanaan
Sebastian Saavedra, Simon Pagenaud and Simona De Silvestro
CLIP The Indianapolis Motor Speedway is a place full of history. The 2.5 mile oval racetrack has been used since its construction in 1909. The Indy 500, the “Greatest Spectacle in Racing”, was hosted in 1911 for the first time and since then never left motorsport fans disappointed. The track became famous as the “Brickyard” when the 3.2 million bricks where layed down to repave the racing surface in 1909. A one-yard strip of brick remains exposed at the start/ finish line, symbol of motor racing tradition for every fan.
RACING -足 INDIANAPOLIS 500
Ed Karpenter leads Carlos Munoz and Marco Andretti at the start of the race
Dario Franchitti
ROAD COURSE INDYCAR SETUP
James Hinchcliffe
RACING -足 INDIANAPOLIS 500
OVAL TRACK INDYCAR SETUP
Ana Beatriz
Tony Kanaan, Marco Andretti and Ryan Hunter-Reay
Helio Castroneves
Mario Andretti
RACING - INDIANAPOLIS 500
CLIP On the day before the 2013 Indy 500 a large crowd gathered in the streets of Indianapolis. The occasion was Legends Day, this year in honor of 1963 Indy 500 winner and motorsport legend, Parnelli Jones. The long day of celebrations began at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway where today’s Indycar drivers sat side by side with former Indy 500 participants for an autograph session. Among these legends were three time winner Bobby Unser (1968, 1975 and 1981), Arie Luyendyk (1990 and 1997 winner) and of course the 1963 Indy 500 winner and Parnelli Jones. The 2013 Legends Day Honoree also sat behind the wheel of his 1963 ‘Ol Calhoun (this was the nickname of the car with which he won the race) leading the field of several vintage racing cars for a few laps of the 2.5 mile racetrack. A colorful parade followed through the city center where a large number of people could wave and take pictures to their idols.
CLIP CARLOS MUNOZ: “I really wanted to fight for the win. Maybe I could win. Maybe not, but I really wanted to fight. I have nothing to be ashamed of. To be second and a rookie and the best of the team is a great job. At the beginning I was a little bit nervous with the pit stops, but in the end, the car was great, and it’s a good second place. Hopefully in the future, I will be able to drink milk.”
Dario Franchitti crashes
Conor Daly
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RACING - INDIANAPOLIS 500
TONY KANAAN: “I knew I had to get the lead on the (last) restart because it could be a yellow, which happened to me plenty of times here, and it did. How life is funny. The yellow was my best friend. People are saying he did it on purpose. Obviously not. I can see him mad out of the car. When he saw I was in the lead, he was shaking his head, like waving at me. It was special, very special.”
INDY 500 RACE RESULTS 1 - Tony Kanaan 2 - Carlos Munoz 3 - Ryan Hunter-Reay 4 - Marco Andretti 5 - Justin Wilson 6 - Helio Castroneves 7 - AJ Allmendinger 8 - Simon Pagenaud 9 - Charlie Kimball 10 - Ed Carpenter 11 - Oriol Servia 12 - Ryan Briscoe 13 - Takuma Sato 14 - Scott Dixon 15 - Ana Beatriz 16 - Tristan Vautier 17 - Simona de Silvestro 18 - Ernesto Viso 19 - Will Power 20 - James Jakes 21 - James Hinchcliffe 22 - Conor Daly 23 - Dario Franchitti 24 - Alex Tagliani 25 - Graham Rahal 26 - Katherine Legge 27 - Townsend Bell 28 - Josef Newgarden
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KV Andretti Andretti Andretti Coyne Penske Penske Schmidt Ganassi Carpenter Panther DRR Ganassi Foyt Ganassi Coyne Schmidt KV Andretti Penske Rahal Andretti Foyt Ganassi Herta Rahal Schmidt Panther Fisher
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ROMEO FERRARIS BULLETIN After a unique super-long racing career Romeo Ferraris’ company is today expression of the Italian excellence in engine and automotive technology
MORE THAN SIXTY YEARS ON TRACK
Italian driver Vitantonio Liuzzi leading the group during one of the Supertars 2013 races
ADVERTORIAL
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he Romeo Ferraris myth started in 1959 when its founder Romeo Ferraris, born in 1937, began to be known as Giancarlo Baghetti’s Lancia tuner. In 1962, Ferraris opened a factory in Milan and started tuning engines and cars designed for races and, at the same time, in 1966, approached the world of speedboats. Since then, 68 titles and more than a thousand awards have enriched his palmarès, including Italian, European, and World championships in many categories of the car and powerboat racing scenes.
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his long history spent on the racetracks of every Continent is far from the end and this year once more Romeo Ferraris team is protagonist of several international championships. With its AMG Mercedes C63 the squad from Milan is actually leading both the Superstars International Series and the Chinese Pan Delta Championship as it is in the same time moving the first steps in the single-seater world by participating to the ultra-professional F.3 European Championship with Dallara cars powered by Mercedes engines.
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he Gumball 3000, without a doubt the most extravagant automotive event of the year, took off from Copenhagen on May 19 to cross Europe (by touching Stockholm, Helsinki, St. Petersburg, Tallinn, Riga, Vilnius, Warsaw, Krakow, Vienna and Verona) and finished in Monaco where about 100 participants arrived just in time to watch the Formula 1 Grand Prix. The Gumball 3000 is in reality a long trip through Europe involving a colourful fleet of cars having two things in common: originality and exclusivity. As a matter of fact it should be enough to say that some participants presented themselves at the starting grid with the car from the latest Batman movie, while others took the start with a modified LMP2 prototype. And in this year’s edition, within this colourful caravan of supercars there is space for the latest and most extreme creature from Romeo Ferraris, a further evolution of its known Cinquone, named Gumball Version. This unique car was created on the initiative of Team Imago 86, who had long planned to participate in the Gumball 3000 with a truly unique vehicle. The enthusiasm of the team together with the effort of the Romeo Ferraris engineering led to a car which, driven by a 1,368 cc turbocharged engine, is capable of developing 300 horsepower. Another important innovation on the Cinquone
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n the Superstars Series the Romeo Ferraris team is playing a “front men” role since 2010 and during the last three seasons has dominated many events and collected a huge number of victories with drivers such Formula 1 champion Johnny Herbert, expert Max Pigoli and young female talent Michela Cerruti. This year the Romeo Ferraris team (officially supported by AMG Driving Academy) is dominating the first part of the season with its super-duo: former Formula 1 driver Vitantonio Liuzzi and former Superstars champion Thomas Biagi. They have been able to win three of the four races and they are approaching the middle of the season at the top of the provisional general standings.
Gumball Version is the introduction of a sequential gearbox with automatic cut-off. From the design point of view, the car can be distinguished from its sisters for the large rear spoiler and the air intake on the roof. To be highlighted in the end that the Cinquone Gumball Version is not destined to remain a one-piece sample but will shortly be regularly on sale.
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f the technological level of the Superstars AMG Mercedes managed by Romeo Ferraris is not a surprise anymore what is really interesting is that the team is dominating the Chinese Pan Delta championship as well. This series represents the state of the art of Touring & GT Cars races in the Far East: an average of 30.000 people attend each race event and around 50 cars in different touring classes are usually competing. Despite its pure national operation many top international sponsors are investing in the series and both television and media coverage are widely guaranteed. The show is well organized: each event presents car races, superbike races and drift shows: it is a kind of Chinese festival in the most rich and western part of the Nation enriched, in two of the four events, by the presence of Audi and Michelin with the Asia R8 Championship.
Michela Cerruti on the 2011 Monza podium after her first Superstars victory
ADVERTORIAL -足 ROMEO FERRARIS BULLETIN
Mario Ferraris car on the Zhuhai grid
British Johnny Herbert during one of the 2011 Superstars races with the Romeo Ferraris Mercedes
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omeo Ferraris is today the only European team with a permanent operative workshop in China and after the brilliant debut in the last 2012 Pan Delta race (where Michela Cerruti and Valentina Albanese finished 2nd in the Zhuhai 3 Hours Endurance race) the company has decided to enter the full series this year (held completely at the Zhuhai Circuit) with a Mercedes C63 AMG driven by Mario Ferraris.
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n Sunday March 17, in the 2013 debut, Mario Ferraris led the Mercedes AMG to victory in both race 1 and race 2 after a good fight with the Ferrari of Bayon Tong. Now a further intriguing challenge is set for Romeo Ferraris team: from the next Pan Delta event in June the team will enter a modified version of the Superstars Mercedes with the engine power increased up to 650 hp from the current 580 hp and some aerodynamics package modifications. With this new version the team is also looking to compete in the super-famous Macau GT Round in November.
PAN DELTA SERIES 2013 calendar s -ARCH :HUHAI #IRCUIT s *UNE n :HUHAI #IRCUIT s 3EPTEMBER n :HUHAI #IRCUIT s $ECEMBER :HUHAI #IRCUIT SUPERSTARS INTERNATIONAL SERIES 2013 calendar s !PRIL n -ONZA #IRCUIT )TALY s -AY n "RNO #IRCUIT #ZECH 2EPUBLIC s *UNE n 3LOVAKIARING 3LOVAKIA s *UNE n :OLDER #IRCUIT "ELGIUM s *ULY n 0ORTIMAO #IRCUIT 0ROTUGAL s 3EPTEMBER n $ONINGTON 0ARK 'REAT "RITAIN s 3EPTEMBER n )MOLA #IRCUIT )TALY s /CTOBER n 6ALLELUNGA #IRCUIT )TALY
Via Lambro, 33 - 20090 Opera (MI) - Italy ph.: +39 02 57601636 +39 02 57603024 fax: +39 02 57605308 e-mail : info@romeoferraris.com
AUTOSPORT MARKETING
Tag Heuer and Renault partner with FIA Formula E TAG Heuer has signed on as Official Timekeeper, Official Watch and Chronograph and Founding Partner of the FIA Formula E Championship. The agreement was signed at TAG Heuer’s headquarters in La Chauxde-Fonds, Switzerland by Jean-Christophe Babin, President and CEO of TAG Heuer (on the right), and Alejandro Agag, CEO of Formula E Holdings. “Teaming up with Formula E, the world’s top competition for electrically-powered racing cars represents the next logical step for TAG Heuer’s ongoing commitment to motorsports, as it draws on both our racing heritage and our commitment to sustainability,” said JeanChristophe Babin, President and CEO of TAG. The new FIA Formula E cars will have technical supply and assistance by Spark Racing Technology which has signed a partnership with Renault SAS, leader of Electric Vehicle and expert in motorsport. “Formula E is an exciting opportunity to demonstrate the excellence and the reliability of our EV solutions,” said Philippe Klein, Executive Vice President, Corporate Planning, Product Planning & Programs of Renault Group. “We believe that motorsport is an efficient manner to promote the efficiency of new technologies, and we’re eager to use that single-seater in FIA Formula E championship to show our technology is the best.” The new Formula E car - the Spark-Renault SRT_01E - is capable of reaching 0-100kph in less than three seconds. Leading Italian firm Dallara will produce the chassis while tyres will be supplied by the Championship’s Official Tyre Partner Michelin. 42 cars are currently under construction by Spark Racing Technology.
SMOKIE’S is the new main sponsor on Diabolik’s Jaguar
Smokie’s and Jaguar are now partners. The renowned Italian brand of electronic sigarettes will sponsor the Jaguar XF SV8 of Ferlito Motors Team during the 2013 Superstars World season. Smokie’s can be sure their brand will have much visibility as the Ferlito Motors’ Jaguar already stands out every racing weekend because of its driver: Diabolik. The famous comic thief takes the track himself with his eyes hidden under the helmet’s visor all the time … stealing the spotlight from all the other competitors!
Honda announces partnership with US Auto Club American Honda Motor announced a comprehensive motorsports partnership program with the United States Auto Club (USAC), including title sponsorship of several USAC racing series and a new role as Official Engine Supplier to the Ignite Midget Series. Implementation of these programs will begin this year, and will be fully in effect for the 2014 race season. Under terms of the multi-year agreement, Honda will become title sponsor for USAC’s National Midget, Ignite Midget (to be renamed Honda Midget) and .25 Midget racing series. Honda K24 “crate” engines, sold and distributed by USAC, will become the new spec engine for the Honda Midget Series.
Mitsubishi Motors to enter 2013 Pikes Peak
Hyundai i20 WRC makes positive shakedown run After an intensive few months of preparation at its new headquarters, Hyundai Motorsport has taken the i20 WRC out of the workshop and onto the road to start its testing program.
Mitsubishi Motors will compete in the 2013 edition of the world-famous Pikes Peak International Hill Climb (held from June 25 to June 30) with the MiEV Evolution II all-electric prototype. MMC’s team will consist of two of the new all-electric fourwheel drive (4WD) racecars. MMC will utilise the data and technical knowhow garnered through its participation in the event in its @earth TECHNOLOGY next-generation advanced technology R&D programme for eventual use in future production vehicles. One MiEV Evolution II will be driven by two-time Dakar Rally overall champion Hiroshi Masuoka, who piloted the i-MiEV Evolution to second place honours in the Electric Class last year and also act as Captain of the MMC team. The second MiEV Evolution II will be piloted by Greg Tracy, six-time Pikes Peak motorcycle champion.
Seat presented Leon Cup Racer Seat is stating its unequivocal commitment to motorsport and to its private customer teams. The new Leon Cup Racer already gives a very clear indication of what a Seat touring car racer might look like, prepared for a wide range of racing series worldwide. The 330 PS / 243 kW Leon Cup Racer forms the basis for the development work and test drives to be undertaken over the coming months.
The result was a successful shakedown for the latest specification of the Hyundai i20 WRC on a private testing ground near its Alzenau, Germany, headquarters. Hyundai Motorsport’s technical team completed the rollout while encountering no significant issues. Now, the test schedule ramps up to prepare for entry in the FIA World Rally Championship in 2014. “The car is on the road and I have to admit it was quite an emotional moment to see the latest specification of the i20 WRC in action for the first time,” said Michel Nandan, Team Principal. “We have an intensive testing schedule for the rest of 2013. It will take us to different venues across Europe, to evaluate the i20 WRC in different conditions and on different terrains, which reflect the variety of circumstances we will encounter in the World Rally Championship next year.”
GLOBAL NEWS N. America/Asia
United States / Japan
Honda rocks the summer’s biggest music festivals Honda returns to support the biggest music festivals of the summer with major sponsorships at three premier events: Sasquatch! (May 24-27) at the Gorge in George, WA, Governors Ball in New York City (June 7-9) and Austin City Limits Music Festival in Austin, TX, (Oct. 4-6; 11-13). As part of the festival support, Honda is offering the opportunity to win a 2013 Civic Sedan and VIP festival passes as well as the return of the popular Honda Photobooth.
Asia
pany, Hyundai plans to install about 40,000 solar photovoltaic modules on the rooftops of Asan’s press, welding, assembly and engine buildings by the end of this year. The 213,000 square meter area to be equipped with the modules accounts for as much as 68 percent of the total roof space, and the peak capacity of the combined modules reaches 10 MW. With such capacity, the completed plant will be capable of supplying up to 11.5 million KWh of electricity per year, or provide a stable supply of electricity for up to 3,200 households.
ler network. From facility upgrades to flagship store openings, the Audi dealer network in the U.S. will continue to expand and evolve.” Strategically located on 11th avenue, between West 56th and West 55th streets in Manhattan, the ultramodern dealership facility comprises two fully integrated buildings, spanning 265,000 square-feet. Beyond this project, the Volkswagen Group is committing $5 billion in North America over the next three years to further strengthen its portfolio and presence in the market.
Asia / Europe
UAE / United Kingdom
Jaguar Land Rover opens new testing center in Dubai
South Korea
GLOBAL NEWS
Hyundai to install South Korea’s largest rooftop photovoltaic power plant Hyundai Motor Company, announced that it will install the nation’s largest rooftop photovoltaic power plant at its manufacturing factory in Asan, Korea, to expand the use of renewable energy and take measures to help reduce global warming. Hyundai’s Asan plant will host the power plant, while Korea Electric Power Corporation will purchase the electricity produced by the solar modules and sell it to areas near the plant, including Asan city. Working with Korea Midland Power Co., a thermal power com-
N. America/Europe United States / Germany
Audi and Volkswagen announce opening of new Manhattan dealerships Audi and Volkswagen celebrated the opening of two new flagship dealerships in New York City. The $135 million financing is Audi and Volkswagen’s largest investment in a dealership real estate project, and is part of the company’s continued growth strategy and operations expansion in the United States. “As part of Audi’s U.S. growth strategy, the brand is making major investments in the quality of its dea-
Jaguar Land Rover has opened a new engineering test center in Dubai, UAE to conduct extreme hot weather vehicle research, development, and testing. With temperatures in the desert typically reaching 120 degrees Fahrenheit (48 degrees Celsius) in the summer months, Dubai is an ideal hot climate testing venue.The new 11,120 sq. ft. facility in the Al Barsha area of Dubai, UAE will offer a comprehensive range of capabilities, including high temperature durability, calibration, and testing. The engineering team at the new center, which replaces a smaller facility in Dubai, will also test
powertrains, chassis and heat and ventilation systems, as well as the off-road and sand driving capability of the Land Rover Terrain Response® system.
Europe Germany
100,000th Panamera leaves factory The Porsche plant in Leipzig, Germany, produced the 100,000th Panamera. “In over 120 countries, Panamera customers drive a Porsche that is ‘Made in Leipzig’ and sport this quality seal around the globe. The team and I are very proud of this,” said Siegfried Bülow, Chairman of the Board of Porsche Leipzig GmbH. Developed in the Swabian city of Weissach and manufactured in the Saxon metropolis of Leipzig, the Panamera also illustrates successful cooperation between business sites within the Porsche company. The milestone vehicle is a new Panamera S EHybrid in “rhodium-silver metallic”. This vehicle made its debut before a world audience at the Shanghai Auto Show at the end of April.
North America
automobiles, motorcycles, and memorabilia, generated more than $5.7 million in total sales with over 77 percent of all lots sold. Bringing together the collector car community to celebrate all things automotive, bidders hailed from seven countries around the world and 38 states across the U.S., with nearly one-third of participants representing new clientele. Following a spirited round of bidding, top sale honors at the Auburn Spring event went to an AACA National First Prize winning 1930 Packard 745 Dual Cowl Phaeton, beautifully presented in black with green leather interior and a black convertible top. Fitted with the desirable “Super 8” engine and benefitting from a well-preserved, first-rate restoration, the Packard achieved a strong $198,000 to applause from the crowd. A stunning 1931 Auburn 8-98 Boattail Speedster also attracted enthusiastic bidding, realizing $159,500, while a fully-equipped 1967 Shelby GT500 Fastback took third spot, garnering $121,000.
United States
Auctions America’s spring weekend attracts global interest Auctions America continued its 2013 season with its annual Auburn Spring collector car weekend at the historic Auburn Auction Park in Auburn, Indiana. The highly successful auction, which included
Europe Germany
Nissan announces biggest ever GT Academy Programme Nissan and Sony Computer Entertainment Europe have revealed that the innovative GT Academy com-
petition will return for a fifth season. GT Academy 2013 will be the biggest yet, with more countries than ever before participating and the online gaming element of the competition set to be run in July on a demo of the hotly-anticipated Gran Turismo®6 game exclusively on PlayStation®3. Since its inception in 2008, the virtual-to-reality competition has attracted over two million entries, with gamers and motor sport fans battling it out on Gran Turismo for the chance to become real Nissan racing drivers. Six former winners of the competition, which now runs in Europe, the USA, Germany, Russia, and the Middle East and South Africa, are now Nismo Athletes competing in top-level motor sport on behalf of Nissan. The format of GT Academy sees the fastest PlayStation® gamers from each country join winners from a number of live events to compete in their respective National Finals. The action will then make the transition from the virtual world to real Nissan sports cars when the winners of each National competition are invited to take part in the intense international final at Silverstone Circuit, now the established home of the GT Academy Race Camp. The winners of each of the GT Academy competitions will then be put through an incredibly intensive and thorough Driver Development Programme in order to qualify for the ultimate competition prize - a full season racing a Nissan GT-R GT3 Nismo in a top-level championship.
Europe / Asia
United Kingdom / Japan
Toyota Hilux at London City Airport London City Airport took delivery of three new Toyota Hilux Double Cabs to serve as airside support vehicles. The new pick-ups are replacements for three previous Hilux that have given service over the past few years. The Toyotas will be used for carrying out various airfield activities required in the day to day airside operations. To support some of the airport’s special requirements, the vehicles are fitted with extra lights, communication equipment and bird scaring equipment. The Hilux – two HL2 models and an Invincible – were supplied through the Business Centre at Hills Toyota Woodford, which will also be looking after their servicing requirements.
N. America/Europe
United States / Germany
GLOBAL NEWS
Andy Warhol’s 1979 Bmw M1 Art Car at Saratoga Museum Andy Warhol’s 1979 BMW M1 Art Car is the center piece of the exhibition “BMW – The Ultimate Driving Machine”, at the Saratoga Automobile Museum. The exhibition also features the BMW 3.0 CSL which won the Daytona 24 Hour race in 1976. The exhibition, which features a retrospective of BMW cars and
motorcycles, will run until November 3, 2013. The array of BMW automobiles will include road cars and race cars, both from the modern era, as well as pre-war. Andy Warhol set about work in an equally unabashed manner after being commissioned to transform a BMW M1 into an Art Car as he thought best. All of the other artists who had previously decorated BMW racing cars had done so by painting a draft version on a scaled-down model This was then transposed to the actual car by assistants under the artist’s supervision. Warhol, however, was the first to paint everything himself. By transferring his ideas to the car in this spontaneous and direct manner, he could clearly stamp his own character on it. The first and only time this rolling work of art took part in a race was at the Le Mans 24-hour Race in 1979. It was driven by Manfred Winkelhock from Germany and the Frenchmen Herve Poulain and Marcel Mignot. They finished sixth overall and second in their class.
Europe
Germany
Audi pilot project begins in Inglostadt Audi is extending its Audi connect services, thus further promoting networking between car, driver and infrastructure. The trial phase for “Audi connect wireless payment” is currently getting underway in Ingolstadt. The solution allows drivers to conveniently pay for parking from their car. Up to 13,000 cars will participate in
the test period. The aim is to integrate wireless payment as an Audi connect service in the car in the future, along the lines of the customerfriendly navigation service with Google Earth and Google Street View that is already available now.
During the trial phase, the parking facilities and the car communicate with each other via an RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) transmitter. For this purpose, a wireless transponder is mounted on the inside of the car windshield. The parking lot user must register for the service once via an online portal using the car’s transmitter number.
Asia / Europe
China / United Kingdom
Great Wall partners with UK’s City of Culture Great Wall’s Steed SE has been announced as the official Vehicle Partner to the UK’s City of Culture 2013, Derry~Londonderry. Under the agreement with Culture Company 2013, Great Wall has supplied two co-branded Steed SE pick-ups. The vehicles will be used to facilitate logistics for the many events planned to celebrate Derry~Londonderry’s UK City of Culture status, and as part of the agreement Great Wall will also provide additional vehicles
to help carry the load during peak times in the schedule. The Great Wall Steed SE is a 4x4 double-cab pick-up. With a load capacity of 1,050kg, a spacious cargo bay measuring 138cm x 146cm x 48cm (length, width, depth) and features including a body-coloured hard-top canopy, rear parking sensors and a cargo load-liner, the two five-seater Steed SE’s are perfectly suited for the challenging job. All Steeds feature Great Wall’s 2.0-litre 16-valve turbocharged diesel powerplant as well as a low-range gearbox and an ‘on-demand’ fourwheel-drive system that can be selected by the driver when the terrain becomes challenging.
Asia Japan
Nissan LEAF branches out as a taxi Cities across the world are going through a quiet revolution as taxi companies start to shift from conventional diesel-powered cabs to zero-emission - and near-silent Nissan LEAF taxis. Nissan’s electric vehicle (EV) is fast becoming the taxi drivers’ favourite too; attracted by lower running costs and fuelled by a desire to reduce airborne pollution in city centres. Two years after the EV went on sale in Europe, Nissan LEAF taxis are now operating in Holland, Switzerland, Germany, Portugal, Spain and the UK. And more are on the way! One of the strongest advocates of the Nissan LEAF as a taxi is Amsterdam-based Taxi-E
company. With a fleet of 13 Nissan LEAF’s, the firms’ drivers have covered over 700,000 kms - that’s further than the distance of the earth to the moon. The cars are quick-charged two or three times a day using 100 per cent green energy, meaning they’re always ready for passengers. Globally, Nissan LEAF-based taxis are also helping to cut pollution on the streets of New York, Rio de Janeiro and many cities in Japan.
They will be guided to their destination through the fastest available route avoiding accidents, incidents, road closures and other traffic causing delays. This traffic service is also extended to secondary roads. INRIX analyses data from a unique combination of sources including road sensor information, accident and incident information, weather, events and its own crowd-sourced network of millions of vehicles and devices to provide real-time traffic information.
Asia Japan
Lexus and INRIX launch parking and traffic service INRIX Park goes beyond static parking points of interest (POIs) to provide Lexus IS owners with the benefit of navigating directly to the least expensive available parking location closest to their destination. The service provides pricing and other information for more than 42,000 car parks across Europe in a service that’s continuously updated as more locations and car park details become available. Additionally, realtime information about the number of available parking spots is offered in a growing number of connected car parks in various European cities. Experts estimate up to 12% of all urban traffic is created by people looking for parking. In fact, a global survey of commuters in 20 international cities found that nearly six out of 10 drivers has abandoned their search for a parking space at least once and drivers often spend an average of nearly 20 minutes in pursuit of a coveted spot. Drivers of the new Lexus IS will also enjoy real-time traffic powered navigation in most European countries.
Europe Italy
The car that leads the bikes In its seventh year of active partnership it doesn’t sound awkward anymore to know that renowned car manufacturer Alfa Romeo is the main sponsor of the Superbike World Championship. This year, leading the bikes in during the 15 racing weekends is the Alfa Romeo Mito Limited Edition: the Quadrifoglio Verde SBK. Customers around the world can buy this car in Solid Black with an Alfa Red roof. Powered by the revolutionary and award winning 1.4 Turbo MultiAir 170 bhp Quadrifoglio Verde engine, the head-turning Alfa MiTo SBK Limited Edition features SBK decals, racing body kit including side skirts and rear lower spoiler, complemented by 18” alloy wheels and red Brembo brake callipers for added dynamism.
CORPORATE & FIGURES Europe
Belarus / United Kingdom
Bentley is coming to Belarus Bentley will expand its presence in the fast-growing Eastern Europe region later this year, with the opening of its first-ever dealership in Belarus. Located in the heart of the capital, Bentley Minsk will open in Summer 2013, and will offer sales and aftersales services to customers of the luxury British brand. Bentley Minsk will present the full range of exclusive Bentley cars – from the powerful and elegant Continental GT and GT Convertible V8 and W12 models, to the refined and dynamic Flying Spur and the Mulsanne luxury flagship.
Europe / Asia
CORPORATE & FIGURES
Czech Republic / South Korea
Hyundai produces one millionth car at Czech factory On 16 May 2013, a New Generation i30 became the one millionth car to be produced at Hyundai’s manufacturing facility in Nošovice, Czech Republic. Production started at the plant on 3 November 2008, with an original i30 model
being the first car to emerge from the line. Hyundai has invested Euro 1.2 billion in its Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Czech factory and 15,500 vehicles were made by the end of the following month. A second shift was added in September 2009 to meet rising demand for Hyundai’s ‘made for Europe’ models and, by 2010, annual production had reached 200,000 units. As consumer demand continued to increase, a third shift was introduced in 2011, and the facility made 300,000 cars during 2012. The Nošovice plant produces the Hyundai ix20 MPV, New ix35 compact SUV and New Generation i30. As well as being manufactured in Europe, each model has also been designed and developed for the European market at Hyundai’s European Technical Centre in Rüsselsheim, Germany. Australia recently became the 60th export destination for the Czechbuilt New Generation i30, joining countries in Eastern Europe, Africa, the Caribbean and Oceania. The Nošovice plant and the company’s plant in Turkey together produce 70% of the Hyundai vehicles sold in Europe.
Hyundai’s Turkey plant expansion almost completed Hyundai Motor Company has nearly completed the major expansion of its Turkey plant, Hyundai Assan Otomotiv Sanayi, which will double capacity to more than 200,000 units and feature production of the new i10. Construction continues at full
speed one year after the USD 609 million expansion announcement was made, and the press, body and trim shops will soon be completed. Production of the new i10 has been moved forward to the end of September for the European and Turkish markets. New sections have been added to the press and body shops to accommodate the production of the new i10, and the body shop now is fully automated with robots. The trim shop’s production line has been doubled, and a new test line has been established. Together with Hyundai Motor’s investment, new Korean suppliers have made investments in Turkey, bringing the total number of suppliers to more than 30. Suppliers are also hard at work preparing for the new i10 production. The investment is set to create about 775 new jobs at the plant and a total of more than 2,800 new jobs, including jobs at suppliers.
Asia India
Tata Motors Group April results The Tata Motors Group global wholesales in April 2013, including Jaguar Land Rover, were 81,241. Global wholesales of all commercial vehicles - Tata, Tata Daewoo and the Tata Hispano Carrocera range were 39,969. Global wholesales of all passenger vehicles in April 2013 were 41,272, while global wholesales of Tata passenger vehicles in April 2013 were 12,398.
North America United States
GM announces investment in Lansing Grand River Plant
General Motors announced a $44.5 million investment to build a Logistics Optimization Center at its Lansing Grand River Assembly plant, creating 200 new jobs. The investment will be used to build a 400,000-square-foot building adjacent to the plant to sequence and assemble parts to make manufacturing more flexible at the site. Lansing Grand River is home of the Cadillac ATS.
Europe Germany
BMW Group sets course for a successful future The BMW Group is paving the way for continued success in the future with a high level of expenditure on new technologies and models and investments in its production network. “In this way, we are preparing for the company’s next phase of growth and making the BMW Group more competitive for the future. Anyone who wishes to shape the mobility of tomorrow must make the necessary investments today,” said Chairman of the Board
of Management of BMW AG, Norbert Reithofer, at the Annual General Meeting. The BMW Group will continue to invest in existing and new locations: for example, in the new site planned in Brazil, which will produce up to 30,000 vehicles per year. The start of production is slated for 2014, with investments in Brazil of more than 200 million euros over the coming years. Last year the BMW Group production network comprised a total of 29 locations in 14 countries. Development costs for new technologies and vehicle concepts will also continue to rise in 2013, with eleven new BMW Group models scheduled for launch in 2013 alone. By the end of 2014, some 25 new models will have been added to the range, ten of them totally new models. With a view to global sales development, the company will continue its strategy of avoiding over-reliance on a single market or region: “We aim to maintain a good balance of sales between the three major regions of the world: Europe, the Americas and Asia,” emphasised Reithofer. Last year, the US accounted for 18.9% of total sales, China 17.7% and Germany 15.6%.
Europe Germany
Porsche 2013 first quarter results Porsche Automobil achieved a profit after tax of 601 million euro in the first quarter of 2013, mainly as a result of the profit from investments accounted for at equity. In the reporting period, this profit only contains the profit contribution of the Volkswagen group attributable to Porsche SE. In the first three months
of the fiscal year 2013, the financial result came to 10 million euro. The Porsche SE group’s net liquidity increased from 2.56 billion euro, as of 31 December 2012 to 2.9 billion euro as of 31 March 2013. This improvement is attributable to tax refunds. However, this figure does not yet include the net dividend of 386 million euro for the fiscal year 2012 paid out by Volkswagen AG in April 2013. The above net liquidity also does not yet take into account the dividend totaling 615 million euro which was approved at the annual general meeting of Porsche SE on 30 April 2013 and distributed to the company’s shareholders in May 2013.
Europe
United Kingdom
Strong April sales for Jaguar Land Rover Jaguar Land Rover sold 28,503 vehicles, its best ever April, an increase of 12% versus the same period last year. During the first four months of the year, Jaguar Land Rover sold 143,974 vehicles, up 16%. April sales were up for Jaguar Land Rover in every major region: with Asia Pacific up 37%, the UK up 32%, the China Region up 10%, North America up 6%, Europe up 2% and other overseas markets up 11% (including India which is up 6%). The same trend is reflected in the first four months of the year with sales up 21% in Asia Pacific, 20% in the UK, 18% in the China Region, 13% in North America, 8% in Europe and 22% in other overseas markets. In April, Jaguar sold 4,711 vehicles up 12%, with sales of the XF up 26% reflecting the impact of the V6 and 2.0l petrol engines and the
AWD and Sportbrake derivatives. Markets which delivered strong performances in the month included: Australia up 78%, Korea up 47%, UK up 34%, China Region up 25% and Middle East and North Africa (MENA) up 27%. Land Rover sold 23,792 vehicles in April up 12% with sales growth reflected in all major regions: Asia Pacific up 39%, UK up 31%, China Region up 8%, North American and Europe both up by 6% and other overseas markets up 12%. Markets worthy of note include Japan up 114%, Korea up 102%, Belgium up 54%, MENA up 55%, Germany up 20% and Brazil up 14%.
North America
United States
CORPORATE & FIGURES
Ford increases North America capacity to meet surging demand Ford Motor Company will add an additional 200,000 units of annual straight-time capacity this year. In addition, Ford will produce an extra 40,000 units by idling select plants for only one week during what has been the traditional twoweek summer shutdown. “To meet surging customer demand for our top-selling cars, utilities and trucks, we are continuing to run our North American facilities at full manned capacity, and we will add 200,000 units of annual straight-time capacity this year,”
said Jim Tetreault, vice president of North America Manufacturing. “Approximately 75 percent of our plants are running at a three-crew, three-shift or four-crew pattern in order to ensure we’re getting more of our products into dealerships.” The 200,000 annual straight-time capacity additions this year will come from Chicago Assembly Plant, Flat Rock Assembly Plant and Kansas City Assembly Plant, including increased production of some of Ford’s best-selling vehicles including Ford Explorer, Ford Fusion and Ford F-Series. The increased production at Kansas City Assembly Plant with the addition of a third crew, which Ford announced in early May, is included in the 200,000 increase. Additionally, 20 plants, including six assembly plants, will take a reduced summer shutdown this year. The assembly plants taking one week of shutdown are Chicago Assembly, Cuautitlán Assembly, Hermosillo Stamping and Assembly, Kentucky Truck, Michigan Assembly and Oakville Assembly.
Asia
Japan
Nissan Fiscal Year 2012 Nissan announced financial results for the twelve-month period ending March 31, 2013. Nissan faced a range of challenges during fiscal year 2012, yet fourth quarter profitability enabled the company to achieve its full-year net income target. Net revenues of JPY 9.63 trillion (USD 116.16 billion, EUR 90.17 billion); Operating profit of JPY 523.5 billion (USD 6.31 billion, EUR 4.90 billion); Ordinary profit of
JPY 529.3 billion (USD 6.38 billion, EUR 4.96 billion) and Net income of JPY 342.4 billion (USD 4.13 billion, EUR 3.21 billion). In FY2012, global sales reached a record-high of 4.914 million units, up 1.4% over FY2011. Ten new models were launched to global markets, including the new Altima in the United States; Sylphy in China; and the Note in Japan. Looking at sales performance in global markets, sales in the US were up 5.4% to 1.14 million units. Sales volume in China, declined 5.3% year-on-year to 1.18 million vehicles. Across Europe including Russia, sales were 660,000 units, falling 7.5%. In Japan, sales were down 1.3% to 647,000 units. Strong results were reported in other markets, including Thailand, Brazil, and the Middle East; sales totalled 959,000 units, up 16.3% over the prior year.
South America/Europe Mexico / Spain
SEAT: an example of internationalization SEAT opts for Mexico as key country for growth and internationalisation. The Spanish company has presented the new Leon, with which – in addition to the Ibiza – it hopes to consolidate itself among the 10 best-selling brands in Mexico, after growing 60% over the past two years. SEAT has started 2013 by growing at a rate of 8.5% in Mexico; in the first four months of the year it has already registered 7,360 vehicles, making it the ninth best-selling brand in the country. The Spanish brand has not stopped growing in Mexico since 2010, when it recorded a share of
1.7% in passenger cars retail sales. That year it sold 13,380 units, growing to 18,115 in 2011, and rising to 21,114 last year. SEAT has a network of about fifty dealerships in the country and which will grow over the next few months. The Spanish company exports 83% of its cars and is present in 77 countries, a fact that enabled it to grow worldwide by 11.5% between January and April compared with the same period last year. In April SEAT sold 30,058 vehicles, 20.5% more than in the same month in 2012. In Germany, the company’s main market, SEAT sales have grown by 30.6% so far this year, reaching a figure of 23,702 vehicles. In Spain the brand has delivered 22,356 vehicles (+10.7%), with another 14,784 (+9.0%) in the UK. The company has also seen strong growth outside Europe during the same period, with 7,822 vehicles (+137.6%) sold in Algeria, 2,126 (+111.1%) in Turkey and 1,217 (+310.5%) in Russia, where in 2012 SEAT reinforced its presence and initiated a new phase together with the Volkswagen Group importer.
Asia
South Korea
Ssangyong Motor receives KRW 80 billion paid-in capital for stock Ssangyong Motor CEO Lee Yoo il announced on May 23, 2013 that the full payment of 80 billion won for the new shares has been recei-
ved from its majority shareholder Mahindra & Mahindra Group and that the paid-in capital increase was successfully completed. Ssangyong Motor decided to make a third party allotment (Preferential Offer) to Mahindra on Feb. 14, 2013 to secure investment funds for new products. The most recent increase in the paid-in capital results from the issuance of some 14.545 million new shares (capital increase ratio of 11.9%). All of the new shares will be locked up for one year, and the expected listing date is scheduled for June 7, 2013. After this, Mahindra’s shareholding ratio in Ssangyong Motor will increase from 69.63% to 72.85%. As the paid-in capital increase got completed smoothly, Ssangyong Motor’s new product development such as the small CUV, which will be launched in 2015, will gain further momentum. Furthermore, the company’s debt ratio will decline and cash liquidity will improve, which will further strengthen the company’s financial soundness. Apart from the 80 billion won paidin capital, Mahindra agreed to roll over the corporate bond worth 95.4 billion won that was scheduled to mature in 2014, by another year. This is an additional source of fund for Ssangyong Motor. With this, the company expects more tangible results from synergy in various areas of sales, sourcing, etc. Mahindra invested 522.5 billion won in 2011 to acquire 70% of Ssangyong Motor Company, and since the acquisition, Ssangyong Motor Board of Directors has approved a total investment of approx. 500 billion won until now, which includes 295.8 billion won investment for small-sized new engine development and CUV development projects.
North America United States
Toledo Assembly Complex marks production of One-Millionth Jeep Wrangler JK The one-millionth Jeep Wrangler JK model rolled off the assembly line at Chrysler Group’s Toledo (Ohio) Assembly Complex. Chrysler executives, plant employees, UAW representatives and supplier partners gathered at the end of the line to mark the occasion. “Every Jeep Wrangler sold to customers around the world is born in Toledo, Ohio,” said Mauro Pino, Chrysler Group’s Vice President of Vehicle Assembly Operations. “Since this facility opened eight years ago, the Toledo workforce has built every one of those million vehicles with pride, passion and a focus on quality. We all look forward to building the next million.” Connected under one roof with the North Plant, where the all-new 2014 Jeep Cherokee will be built this year, the Toledo Assembly Complex’s Supplier Park began production of the Jeep Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited in 2006. Located on the same site as the former Stickney Plant, the complex includes body and chassis operations, produced in partnership with suppliers Kuka and Mobis, respectively.
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