digital monthly magazine
10
No. August 2013
Audi Auto Union race car of the future, by Peter Ten Klooster (The Netherlands)
BMW i3
SUZUKI SX4
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Read right away! Emission-free hydrogen powered vehicles will soon be operating in London. It is the intention that five Hyundai Motor ix35 Fuel Cell models – the first production fuel cell cars in the world – will be an integral part of the London Hydrogen Network Expansion project…
At first glance the Hyundai ix35 Fuel Cell looks just like every other car that rolls off the assembly line in Ulsan, Korea. There are a few subtle changes – the blue-tinged badging, the grille and the lack of an exhaust pipe for example – but essentially it looks identical to the petrol and diesel-powered examples… Read more at pag. 80
Summary 4 AUTO NEWS
Latest news - VIDEO
20 MISS (ES) OF THE MONTH Power to the imagination
28 FOCUS
Suzuki SX4 - VIDEO
38 THE GREEN SIDE BMW i3
52 CLASSIC
Volvo Duett Uniques Special Ones - preview
62 RACING
The magic Spa 24 Hours
74 ROMEO FERRARIS BULLETIN 78 AUTOSPORT MIX 80 GLOBAL NEWS
Hyundai Fuel Cell Cars to Arrive in London Global news mix
88 CORPORATE & FIGURES Like us on facebook: Cars Global Magazine
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
2014 RAM 1500 OFFERS NEW 3 LITER ENGINE ‌
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he 2014 Ram 1500 will offer a new, 3.0-liter EcoDiesel engine, mated with the TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission. This engine produces 240 horsepower and 420 lb.-ft. of torque. The 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine variable-valve timing (VVT) offers 305 horsepower, 269 lb.-ft. of torque. The Pentastar V-6 features 42 percent more horsepower, 13 percent more torque and at least 20 percent better fuel economy when compared to the previous 3.7-liter V-6 powertrain. The legendary 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 with fuel-saving cylinder shut-off and VVT provides 395 horsepower and 410 lb.-ft. of torque. The 2014 Ram 1500 retains its ruggedly handsome appearance, exterior design aesthetics and segment-leading technology. For 2014, the Ram 1500 offers 12 different colors, including two new shades: Blue Streak and Granite Crystal; available in a monotone and/or two-tone depending on the model.
This new truck will be built at the Warren Truck Assembly Plant in Warren, Michigan. Pricing starts at $24,200. The V-6 EcoDiesel with TorqueFlite 8-speed automatic transmission is priced $2,850 greater than a similarly equipped Ram 1500 with a 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 with Torqueflite 8 speed transmission.
THE FIRST DATSUN CAR
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… WHILE THE 2013 MODEL GETS THE “BLACK EXPRESS” FACELIFT
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he Ram Black Express takes a combination of style, performance, capability and value and transforms into the “baddest-looking” factory-built truck on the market. It is distinguished by its all-black exterior. Starting with 20inch black aluminum wheels, it also adds a black front fascia with fog lamps, black grille surround with black hex-link inserts, black rear bumper and black Ram’s head badges on the grille and tailgate. All bodyside badging has been removed. The Ram Black Express also features premium bifunctional halogen projector headlamps with black bezels, 15 amber LEDs for park/ turn/position lamp and three amber LEDs for the side marker. The taillamps also include black finishes and are comprised of 15 red LEDs with three red LEDs for the side markers. Ram Black Express pricing starts at $26,955.
atsun unveiled the first new Datsun car for the 21st century. The all-new Datsun GO will be on sale in India in early 2014. The Datsun GO is the realization of the commitment made by Nissan Motor Company in March 2012 to return the Datsun brand to the marketplace. The five-door, front-wheel drive hatchback will come with a 1.2-liter engine paired with a five-speed manual transmission that offers optimal response time and agility in congested traffic. With comparatively compact body dimensions (width – 1635mm; height – 1485mm; length– 3785mm), the car is spacious inside thanks to a wide stance and large wheelbase (2450mm), and offers ample headroom and an expanded front seating configuration. This all-new car has been built to meet the needs of recent rising group of optimistic customers in highgrowth markets who seek better value propositions. These are people who want transportation that supports their everyday needs, but that also fulfills their dreams and ambitions for a better tomorrow. The name of the new car is inspired by the first Datsun, the DAT-GO, launched almost a century ago in Japan. Back then the cars brought mobility to people who had never dreamed of car ownership before. The reignited Datsun brand and the Datsun GO will bring a similar combination of aspiration and trustworthiness. Datsun models will be individually developed for different markets, but the concept will follow a common inspiration. Datsun GO will be the first of several Datsun models that will be launched later in 2014 in Indonesia, Russia and South Africa. Datsun GO is expected to be “a category up” in its price range, attractively priced below INR 400,000.
MINI’S CAMPING SOLUTIONS
AUTO NEWS AUGUST
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hree different solutions each reflect different aspects of the rise in popularity of camping and festivals, creating a choice of premium homefrom-home options for the enthusiastic traveller. The MINI Clubvan Camper is arguably the world’s smallest luxury camper van, a MINI Clubvan which has been transformed into a versatile home on wheels. Behind the solid side windows there is a spacious sleeping berth for one person, plus a small, extendible kitchenette complete with propane stove and chest fridge. The Camper’s generous specification also includes an integrated hand-held shower, with a water tank housed underneath the load floor. The MINI Cowley compact tourer has been named after the historic factory - today known as Plant Oxford
- which is home to much of the current MINI range. The Cowley caravan is a luxurious overnight solution and all the mod cons are fitted, including two comfortable sleeping berths, a twin-burner gas stove and a water tank complete with pump and sink facility. A solar module charges the on-board battery and there’s a 230-volt connection to power the fridge, TV/DVD and audio equipment. The MINI Countryman ALL4 Camp features an innovative roof-top tent. The upper half of the tent is simply folded out of its storage box. They have been created as concept vehicles to showcase the depth of the MINI range, as well as the creativity and skill within the company’s design and engineering staff. There are no plans to offer them as production vehicles at this stage.
U.S. AIR FORCE SPECIAL EDITION FORD MUSTANG
AUTO NEWS AUGUST
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he engineering and design teams at Ford Motor Company have produced a unique U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds Edition 2014 Ford Mustang GT. This car was donated by Ford to be sold at the Gathering of Eagles charity event on during the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) AirVenture Oshkosh 2013 – the World’s Greatest Aviation Celebration. “The dedication and excellence displayed by the United States Air Force Thunderbirds are qualities we also celebrate at Ford,” said Edsel B. Ford II, a member of the Ford board of directors. “With this year’s beautiful U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds Edition Mustang, we’ve captured the recognizable symbols of their stature and paired it with the innovation our Ford design and engineering teams build into all of our products.” This unique U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds Ford Mustang GT celebrates and commemorates the 60th anniversary of the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, the fastest, multi-jet flight demonstration team in the world.
Thunderbirds fly the F-16 Falcon, known for its glossy red, white and blue paint scheme. The exterior showcases a custom brilliant white paint with red and blue accents, as well as markings and logos, tying it to the Thunderbirds’ F-16 Falcon aircraft. The interior is also fitted with details that recall what is really Thunderbird. Unique interior details of the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds Edition Ford Mustang GT include a modified navigation screen, instrument cluster and rear seatdelete. The car’s seats include embroidered Thunderbirds elements. Additional features include unique sill plates and puddle lamps that project the aircraft silhouette when the doors open.
NEW RENAULT CLIO CUP
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eplacing the model used competitively since 2006, the new Clio Cup has benefited from all the assets of the Clio Renaultsport 200 Turbo EDC, starting with its chassis. Reinforced by a welded roll cage, the monocoque chassis delivers increased safety and is stronger too. Enhanced by 17-inch rims, the design of the new Clio Cup is complemented by aerodynamics that make it handle even better on the track. Renault Sport Technologies’ engineers have put all their knowledge into the new 1.6-litre, direct-injection, turbo engine, which produces 220hp and a constant torque of 270Nm. It is hooked up to a six-speed, sequential gearbox that enables gear shifts to be made in just 100 milliseconds. Steering-wheel paddle shifts are available as an option, along with the classic gearstick.
The new Clio Cup mounts 320mm ventilated discs, gripped by powerful 4-piston callipers. The new Clio Cup can either be fitted with Michelin 20/61-17 for racing in the Eurocup or Dunlop 21/6217 tyres in national championships. Crafted by Renault Design, its 17-inch rims are supplied by Speedline.
THE SALEEN 351 MUSTANG GOES PUBLIC
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he Saleen 351 is now underway for production. “The amount of detail that we had to put in this vehicle is astounding”, said Steve Saleen. “I feel our team has struck the perfect balance of design, technology, and [of course] power.” Saleen has been taking pre-orders for the 351 since its debut, and shortly
after the unveiling of the prototype at the Knott’s Ford Show in Southern California is moving forward into production. Pounding out 700 hp and 655 ft-lb of torque on a supercharged 351 cubic inch V8, the Saleen 351 is rounded out by its distinct Saleen aerodynamics and Red Butterfly Center Ram Air Induction system.
SPORTY AND ELEGANT:
THE CITROËN DS3 CABRIO RACING
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itroën has chosen the Goodwood Festival of Speed to reveal its new concept car: Citroën DS3 Cabrio Racing. The new concept car combines the best of the Citroën DS3 Racing with all the sophistication of the DS3 Cabrio. The Citroën DS3 Cabrio Racing makes a spectacular first impression, with its extreme customisation and sporting appeal. Moondark mat textured grey paintwork is allied with gloss black 19” wheels, and Black Chrome inserts on the handles, boot trim and door mirrors. The concept is DS through and through, with bold identity statements such as the DS pattern, featured in gloss weave on the black canvas roof with its high-tech carbon-fibre look and engraved on the door mirror housings and the Carmin coloured brake callipers, wheel hubs, doors with the wide side strips, and parts of the lettering and badge. Citroën Racing know-how also takes centre stage, with special running gear, brakes and carbon kit. And the car maintains the performance of the Racing version, with a 1.6 litre engine developing 202 bhp.
FINAL JUSTICE LEAGUE-INSPIRED KIA UNVEILED
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AUTO NEWS AUGUST
Entertainment and Kia unveiled the JUSTICE LEAGUE-inspired Kia Sorento, the eighth and final custom vehicle built in partnership with Kia Motors America. The Sorento’s eye-catching design was penned by legendary comic book artist and DC Entertainment Co-Publisher Jim Lee, who completed the customization of the car before a live audience at the San Diego Comic-Con. The seven-seat Sorento marks the final chapter in a
10-month, eight-vehicle partnership between DC Entertainment and Kia based on the iconic characters that make up the JUSTICE LEAGUE – Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, Green Lantern, The Flash, Aquaman and Cyborg – each of which are featured on their own car designed by Lee. The final car captures the entire JUSTICE LEAGUE, as drawn by Jim Lee. “This project has been challenging and rewarding for me as an artist and Kia has been a terrific partner,” Lee said.
SUZUKI SWIFT SPORT NOW WITH FIVE DOORS
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he Swift Sport is the performance flagship of the Swift model range and offers higher levels of tuning, steering and braking performance than the standard Swift. For the 2013 model update, and in response to customer demand, Suzuki is introducing the five door model to provide further practicality and seating for five. The Swift Sport’s M16A engine offers power combined with low emissions. The engine has a variable intake system and an optimised intake VVT (Variable Valve Timing) for increased valve lift, maximum output is 100kW (136PS) and maximum torque is 160Nm at an engine speed of 4,400 rpm. The engine’s high output is combined with excellent fuel economy of 44.1mpg on the Combined EC Cycle with CO2 emissions of
THE MOST POWERFUL CATHERAM SEVEN
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aterham Cars launched the most extreme Seven at the Goodwood Festival of Speed. The British manufacturer re-invented its iconic model with the Seven 620R in the year it celebrates its 40 years. A newlyengineered, two-litre supercharged Ford Duratec engine boasts 310bhp, providing even more torque and propelling the Seven 620R from 0-60mph in under 2.8 seconds. Priced at £49,995 (almost 58,000 euros), such extreme
147g/km. The Sport is fitted with a six-speed manual transmission as standard and has a bespoke exhaust system with twin tailpipes, one on each side of the rear diffuser.
WOOD GOOD VAL FESTI ED E OF SP
performance pushing on to a top speed of 155mph, will put the 620R at the top of the current range, replacing the Superlight R500. While the launch edition of the Seven 620 features the sportier ‘R’ pack, a slightly less hardcore ‘S’ pack, which harnesses all the power of the original but offers a little more accessibility will be launched later this year. Orders are now being taken for the Caterham Seven 620R, with first deliveries expected later this year.
WOOD GOOD VAL FESTI ED E OF SP
JAGUAR CONCEPT CELEBRATES LE MANS
AUTO NEWS AUGUST
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he Jaguar Project 7 concept is based on the 2014 Jaguar F-TYPE, as explained by Ian Callum, Director of Design at Jaguar: “Project 7 is a singleseat sports car based on the F-TYPE, with the kind of racing-inspired form that designers dream about. It has one purpose: to be driven fast and enjoyed.” Project 7’s name acknowledges Jaguar’s winning of Le Mans seven times between 1951-1990, and its blue paintwork is reminiscent of the victorious Jaguar D-type cars of 1956/1957. The F-TYPE’s rigid all-aluminum architecture provides the perfect starting point, with power supplied by a 550hp supercharged 5-liter Jaguar V8 engine. This power is delivered to the rear wheels through an eightspeed ZF transmission with “Quickshift” technology, and an active electronically controlled limited slip dif-
ferential. Project 7 also features a free-flow exhaust system with a ceramic finish, 10mm lower ride height and a custom-calibrated spring/damper tune. Aerodynamic characteristics include a carbon-fiber front air splitter, side skirts, large rear diffuser and a fixed rear spoiler with a 14-degree angle of attack, giving Project 7 a low muscular stance. The side louvers and bonnet vents are also carbon-fiber, while the carbon-fiber and aluminum mirrors draw inspiration from those on Jaguar’s C-X16 sports car concept, which inspired the F-TYPE.
MCLAREN TRACK-ONLY 12C GT SPRINT
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he track-only McLaren 12C GT Sprint model signifies the continued development of the 12C model, and bridges the gap between the 12C and the allout racing 12C GT3 and 12C GT Can-Am Edition models. It has been designed and developed by McLaren GT, the race car building arm of the McLaren Group, and retains many of the unique systems from the 12C road car, on which it is based. It is built around the lightweight carbon fibre MonoCell chassis, with developments to systems such as ProActive Chassis Control, (PCC), Brake Steer and the McLaren Airbrake. Generating 625PS, the optimised 3.8-litre twin turbo engine includes a unique oil system, and cooling system which features a 12C GT3 developed central front radiator. The GT Sprint retains the 12C’s
WOOD GOOD VAL FESTI ED E OF SP
seven speed twin clutch gearbox. Lowered by 40 mm, the 12C GT Sprint is fitted with track-focused braking system with carbon ceramic (CCM) brake discs. Tyre changes are made easier through an on-board air jacking system and centre-locking 19-inch OZ wheels, shod with Pirelli racing slick tyres. Inside the cabin, the 12C GT Sprint is fitted with an FIA-approved rollcage and integrated fire extinguisher system. A fully adjustable HANS-approved, lightweight composite racing seat fitted with full six-point harness provides the optimum driving position. Further details will be announced in due course, but an initial batch of 20 cars will be delivered in 2013, available from McLaren retailers at a price point below 200,000 GBP (around 230,000 Euro).
A LEGENDARY NAME IS BACK!
A LEGENDARY N
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he Bluebird name is synonymous with cuttingedge technology and record-breaking, a tradition continued by Don Wales, grandson of Sir Malcolm Campbell and nephew of Donald Campbell. At the Sustainable MotoExpo (to be held in September in Beaulieu, Hampshire, UK), Wales will launch his Bluebird DC50 electric sports car – a limited edition of just 50 Bluebird electric sports cars built to commemorate
the 50th anniversary in 2014 of HYPERLINK “http:// en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Donald_Campbell” \t “_blank” Donald Campbell’s land and water speed records. With peak power of up to 360bhp and acceleration to match a Porsche, the Bluebird DC50 is a two-door coupe with electrically operated ‘scissor’ doors. It has a range of up to 200 miles, depending on specification, and will be available in one body colour only: Bluebird blue.
NAME IS BACK!
ZAGATO CELEBRATES ASTON MARTIN CENTENARY
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AUTO NEWS AUGUST
agato Marks Aston Martin Centenary With Two New Special Editions: the DB9 Spyder Zagato Centennial, conceived for the well known American car collector Peter Read and the DBS CoupĂŠ Zagato Centennial, delivered to a young and prestigious Japanese entrepreneur. The history began in 2001 when Dr. Ulrich Bez approved a design for the DB7 Zagato, which was inspired and financed by the Zagato team, comprising of An-
drea and Marella Zagato and Peter Read, a long time enthusiast and collector of Aston Martins. Due to the success of the DB7 Zagato (all 99 units were sold at the Paris Motor Show prior to production) and with the approval and collaboration of Aston Martin, the same team designed, developed and produced a one-off DB9 Spyder Zagato Centennial. This creation honours the heritage, power and elegance of Aston Martin’s Centenary.
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he Aston Martin DBS Coupé Zagato Centennial is an exotic cross of Aston Martin DNA with Italian flair and Milanese inspiration, sporting a ‘double bubble’ roof design, reminiscent of Zagato cars from the 1950s. Norihiko Harada, Zagato’s Chief Designer
explains: “Redesigning the DBS was a difficult job. The DBS is already one of the most beautiful modern sports cars around. Our challenge was to bring sporty styling together with a more Mediterranean luxury GT feel, all with typical Zagato quality.”
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MERCEDES S 63 AMG: LUXURY MEETS POWER
AUTO NEWS AUGUST
ercedes-AMG has launched the new S 63 AMG. The AMG 5.5-litre V8 biturbo engine – the most powerful member of the BlueDIRECT engine family, with an output of 430 kW (585 hp) and torque of 900 Nm – delivers effortlessly superior performance. Thanks to systematic lightweight construction based on the “AMG Lightweight Performance” philosophy, the S 63 AMG is up to 100 kilograms lighter than its predecessor. A combination of
an efficient drive system and reduced weight results in an NEDC combined fuel consumption of 10.1 to 10.3 litres per 100 kilometres (237 to 242 g/km CO2). The new S 63 AMG is also available with the performance-oriented AMG all-wheel-drive system 4MATIC as an option for the first time. The three transmission modes are available for the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission – “C” (Controlled Efficiency), “S” (Sport) and “M” (Manual).
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HOLDEN MALIBU ON SALE IN AUSTRALIA
he Holden Malibu went on sale this month in Australia. Holden’s engineering team has created a unique-for-Australia ride and handling set up that ensures the Malibu performs on Australia’s challenging roads. Holden Vehicle Dynamics Specialist Engineer, Michael Barber was part of the team that developed the local tune for the Holden Malibu: “The challenge with adapting a global car for the local market often begins with the tyres,” he said. “As a global vehicle, sold predominantly in left hand drive markets, Malibu was originally specified with left hand drive tyres. Using left hand drive tyres in a right hand drive market can lead to a vehicle that pulls excessively to the left.” In addition to tyre development, the engineering team was also able to create a new suspension set up with a unique damper tune to deliver a good balance in ride and handling that works well on Australian roads.
NEW SEAT LEON ST
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he new SEAT Leon ST combines the youthful, dynamic design and sporty characteristics of its siblings with exceptional utility. It has a capacity of 587 litres, rising to as much as 1470 litres with the rear seat backrests folded - meaning that even the big items of everyday life are best accommodated in the Leon ST. The design of the Leon ST continues the emotional SEAT design language. The extensive line-up of hi-tech options such the full-LED headlamps is expanded by ACC proximity radar and DCC variable damper adjustment. The optional Dynamic Pack including DCC and Progressive Steering enables a high degree of control under sporty driving conditions. The selection of petrol engines is wide and varied. The 1.2 TSI is available in two versions with 63 kW (86 PS) and 77 kW (105 PS). With start/stop and brake energy regeneration, the 77 kW engine consumes just 4.9 litres per 100 km (CO2: 114 g/km). The 1.4 TSI with 90 kW (122 PS) and the 1.4
TSI with 103 kW (140 PS) are likewise state-of-the-art power units with a fuel consumption of just 5.3 litres. At the top of the petrol line-up is the FR, with the 1.8 TSI delivering 132 kW (180 PS) and 250 Nm of torque. The broad TDI range for the new Leon ST extends from 66 kW (90 PS) to 135 kW (184 PS). The entry model is the 1.6 TDI with 66 kW (90 PS) and a respectable 230 Nm of torque. The 2.0 TDI with 110 kW (150 PS) and 320 Nm of torque provides powerful propulsion for the SEAT Leon ST. Yet, with the start/stop and regeneration system, it manages to make an average of just 4.1 litres of fuel per 100 km (CO2: 106 g/km). A sporty highlight is the 2.0 TDI with 135 kW (184 PS) and 380 Nm of torque, which features exclusively in the FR and boasts fuel consumption of a mere 4.3 litres per 100 km (CO2: 112 g/km).
MISS(ES) OF THE MONTH
POWER TO THE IMAGINATION! Not just dramatic markets data ‌ the automotive world is still able to let the imagination run wild. Many designers are proposing truly astonishing works and we focus here on what the creativity of young designers from the Emirates, United Kingdom, Germany, South Korea and Netherlands is able to offer us.
Audi Auto Union race car of the future, by Peter Ten Klooster (The Netherlands)
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group of young design students is going to make their dream come true, by showing their drawings at Salon Privé, an event established as the UK’s most prestigious Luxury Super Car Show. As a matter of fact the London event organizers and the Royal College of Art have recently released exclusive designs that will form part of an all-new feature for 2013, the ‘Concours of the Futur’ design exhibition. A new and exciting addition to Salon Privé 2013, Concours of the Future, sees a group of talented undergraduates from the RCA’s Vehicle Design programme tasked to revisit some historic Concours-winning cars and re-design these icons for the modern world, and beyond.
MISS(ES) OF THE MONTH - POWER TO THE IMAGINATION
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his fascinating new work will be revealed for the first time at Salon Privé (London) on 4th September, with judging of the 11 new designs taking place the following day, chaired by leading automotive designer and RCA visiting professor, Peter Stevens. Stevens will be supported on the Concours of the Future judging panel by Dale Harrow, Head of the RCA Vehicle Design programme; Giles Taylor, Director of Design, RollsRoyce Motor Cars Ltd; Peter Schreyer, Chief Design Officer, Hyundai and Kia Motors; and Peter Horbury, Vice President - Design, Geely. Peter Stevens said: “The RCA is very proud to be working with Salon Privé on this fascinating new project. Some of the results are astounding, and I’m delighted to be supporting the ‘Concours of the Future’ design exhibition with some of the most esteemed designers from around the world. Our young RCA designers are presenting their continuing fascination with the romance of the motorcar to their prospective future employers, and what an illustrious panel it is.” The overall winner will be invited to Milan for a behind-the-scenes tour and design master-class with Andrea Zagato at the Zagato Design Studio.
Lamborghini 350 GT of the future, by Hoe Young Hwang (South Korea)
Rolls-Royce Phantom of the future, by Nicholas Dunderdale (UK)
Bugatti Type 35 of the future, by Jannis Carius (Germany)
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ar away from London, Hussain Albagali is showing day by day what his imagination is able to produce.Hussain is a young designer from Dubai, UAE, and is actually the only UAE professional automotive designer. He loves cars and … all kind of automotive and transportation machines. He started drawing cars since he was 12 years old, and he worked in concept design and artwork on automotive for quite a lot of important clients. Of course his “style” is influenced by the “desert habitat” but not a long time ago Albagali has also produced some interesting “artworks cars” for BMW – Mini – Rolls Royce group in Abu Dhabi, that have met the favour of public and automotive managers, and also a study for a Lukoil Formula 1. Albagali is now working on several interesting projects (body kit tuning and artwork design for KIA and Dodge) to be presented at the Dubai Auto Show in October or November 2013.
MISS(ES) OF THE MONTH - POWER TO THE IMAGINATION
Albagali is so immanigating the future Dubai Police cars
An off road car study by Hussain Albagali
MISS(ES) OF THE MONTH - POWER TO THE IMAGINATION
Hussain Albagali artworks on Mini, Rolls Royce and BMW cars
Two Military vehicles from Hussain Albagali
FOCUS
SUZUKI’S NEW SX4
THE PERFECT FUSION
It has only been a few months since the new SX4 was unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show. The new SX4 seems to be more than just a crossover vehicle, it’s the perfect fusion of family-friendliness and safety, performance and emotion and delivers exceptional driving pleasure.
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uzuki created the new SX4 by uniting its compact-car know-how with technologies honed for sport utility vehicles. As a result of focussing on giving the new SX4 a distinctive crossover styling, class-leading space for passengers and luggage, next-generation 4WD performance and one of the lowest CO2 emissions in the segment, it achieves a remarkable combination of styling, utility, safety, performance and fuel economy.
Design The new SX4’s design embodies three key themes: emotion, quality and aerodynamics. Aerodynamics which improve fuel economy, a bold, characteristic crossover shape, dynamic lines and numerous sophisticated touches all combine to create a highly distinctive look. Design engineers pursued minimal drag from the beginning of the development process by conducting wind-tunnel tests on clay models and by using computer-aided engineering technologies. The new SX4’s superior aerodynamics benefit performance and fuel economy.
FOCUS - SUZUKI’S NEW SX4
Key features are as follows: -A minimal grille opening area reduces unnecessary air intake. -The front bumper corners, fog lamp bezels and wheels are shaped to smooth the airflow over the sides of the body. -The door mirrors have a low-drag design. -A smooth roof line from the windshield to the back of the body, contours that draw inward towards the rear of the body, and aerodynamically efficient contours on the rear, help to smooth the airflow over the body. -Airflow under the body is smoothed by newly adopted items (front strakes, an engine undercover, and floor covers), by the shape of the bottom surfaces of the bumper absorbers, and by the shape of the bottom surface of the muffler. Emotionally appealing features include modulated lines running along the sides from front bumper to rear combination lamps, plus a rounded bonnet which conveys a sense of strength and solidity. Quality features include chrome items at the front; LED daytime running lamps in the headlamps; boldly contoured shoulders along the side lines; and twopart rear combination lamps. Aerodynamics are expressed and achieved in every area of the design, such as the roof line which slopes downwards towards the rear, smooth contours across the side of the body, a modulated line running from front to rear, low-drag wheels and door mirrors. A range of 10 exterior colours includes two new options which highlight the new SX4’s urban credentials.
Comfort and convenience The instrument panel has soft, padded surfaces that contain layers of polyvinyl chloride and urethane and an integrated form that evokes dynamic motion. Its contours overlap the doors, giving a sense of width and energy. Items including the centre ornament, centre console, and door trim have high-quality silver decorations that form sporty accents against the cabin’s black keynote colour. Heightened functionality in the meter cluster helps the user concentrate on driving. A large speedometer and a large tachometer flank a multi-information display that shows the instantaneous fuel consumption, the outside temperature, the time and, in a 4WD vehicle, the driving mode. It also includes a rear-seatbelt warning and indications for ultrasonic parking sensors. The meters each have a peripheral silver ring for a look of quality. A spacious, airy cabin and a generously sized luggage area ensure convenience and comfort for the whole family during day-to-day commutes and extended weekend trips. 4,300mm overall length and a 2,600mm wheelbase allow plenty of cabin space; the distance between front and rear occupants is 814mm. The front seatbacks are shaped to give rear passengers plenty of knee clearance. Even long journeys are relaxing. And even with the rear seat in an upright position, the new SX4 is a class leader in terms of luggage capacity (430 litres). The rear seat and a luggage board can be repositioned to accommodate different kinds of luggage, making the new SX4 ideal for families. Intricate stitching on the seats gives them a look and feel of quality. The front seats each offer excellent hold and support; they hold occupants firmly in place even on tight curves. A height adjuster for the driver’s seat has a fore-aft range of 51mm and an up-down range of 59mm, so drivers with diverse physiques can each choose the optimal position. The rear seat offers a relaxing ride with ample knee clearance and retractable centre armrest. The rear seatback can be set at either of two angles. One angle promotes passenger relaxation and the other creates an additional 10 litres of space in the luggage area on top of its capacity of 430 litres.
The panoramic sunroof is a world first*, consisting of two sliding glass panels (one in front of the other). The sunroof extends over the front and rear seats, making the cabin more relaxing for all occupants. When the sunroof is closed, the glass panels have a combined length of 1,000mm. When the sunroof is open, the opening has a length of 560mm (one of the largest in this segment), giving occupants an invigorating open-roof experience.
FOCUS - SUZUKI’S NEW SX4
*Suzuki’s internal research as of February 2013
CLIP Yasushi Sasaki, chief engineer of the new SX4, explains: “Daily life – and with it, what is expected of a car – has become far more complex today than it was just a few years ago. Whether it is a family outing to the seaside, weekend shopping tour in the city or a quick sporting trip, tackling rough terrain and bumpy country roads or smoothly cruising down the motorway – the SX4 complements all the needs of the ‘Cross-Living Generation’ perfectly.”
Performance, engines and transmission The new SX4’s performance results from a combination of attributes: 4WD SUV capability, great handling – derived from the Swift –, pleasant straight-running stability thanks to a long wheelbase, low CO2 emissions and fuel consumption – fulfilling the global need for environmental compatibility. The engine options are 1.6-litre petrol and 1.6-litre diesel. The 1.6-litre engine has an updated design for torquey performance across the rev range. Weight savings in the engine and related parts help to realise superior fuel economy together with high output and torque. The newly adopted 1.6-litre diesel engine has a variable-geometry turbocharger (VGT). The VGT gives optimal forced induction by controlling the flow of exhaust gases in accordance with the engine speed, thereby helping to realise high torque, low fuel consumption and low emissions of particulate matter. The diesel engine is complemented by a sound-insulating engine cover, a soundinsulating windscreen, and a cowl top panel brace which suppress the vibration and noise that characterise diesel engines.
FOCUS - SUZUKI’S NEW SX4
Transmission systems designed for the new SX4 help to improve performance and fuel economy and ensure the type of easy, sporty gear shifting which makes driving so enjoyable. A five-speed manual transmission is available with the 1.6-litre petrol engine. Optimised gear ratios boost performance and fuel economy. Lower shift effort helps to realise a superior shift feel.
CLIP Suzuki will be building the new SX4 at the Magyar Suzuki plant in Hungary and the car will be on sale from this autumn onwards. Magyar Suzuki plays an important role as Suzuki’s European production centre. The launch of the new SX4 marks the start of an expansion programme in which Magyar Suzuki will extend its exports to more countries, increase its production volume, and establish itself as an important manufacturing base for Suzuki’s global strategy.
And heightened rigidity in the transmission case suppresses noise and vibration to make driving more relaxing. A six-speed manual transmission is mated to the 1.6-litre diesel engine. Heightened rigidity in the transmission case suppresses noise and vibration. Plus, lower shift effort and an optimised counterweight help to realise a light shift feel. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) available with the 1.6-litre petrol engine has an auxiliary transmission which extends the range of gear ratios for an outstanding combination of acceleration, hill-climbing performance and fuel economy. A newly adopted built-in oil cooler ensures superior cooling performance for highspeed driving. A straight shift gate provides ease of use. Plus, a seven-speed manual mode allows the driver to shift up and down using paddles without letting go of the steering wheel. New ALLGRIP 4WD technology ALLGRIP is Suzuki’s new-generation 4WD, created by evolving the company’s renowned 4WD technologies to provide driving enjoyment and peace of mind in diverse conditions while promoting economy and limiting the strain which 4WD cars place on the environment. The four-mode 4WD system in the new SX4 embodies ALLGRIP technology. The 4WD system has four driver-selectable modes – auto, sport, snow, and lock. Integrated control of the engine, transmission, ESP®*, etc., allows selection of an optimal mode to suit road and driving conditions. The driver selects the modes using a simple pushand-turn dial on the centre console. The AUTO mode prioritises fuel economy in typical driving conditions. The system uses 2WD by default. It switches to 4WD if it detects wheelspin. The SPORT mode is optimal for twisty roads. The system makes maximum use of 4WD in response to accelerator inputs. At low- and mid-range engine speeds, the system alters the accelerator/ torque characteristics to optimise engine response and cornering performance.
The SNOW mode is optimal for snowy, unpaved and other slippery surfaces. The system uses 4WD by default. It optimises 4WD control in accordance with the steering and accelerator inputs in order to enhance traction and stability on low-friction surfaces.The LOCK mode is designed for extricating the car from snow, mud or sand. The system distributes high torque to the rear wheels continually. Low-weight body, suspension and brakes A high-rigidity body is fundamental to handling, comfort, safety, NVH performance and every other aspect of a car’s behaviour. The new SX4’s body incorporates a large proportion of high-tensile steel for strength and lightness. Stiff mountings of the front struts and suspension frame provide greater handling stability. And greater rigidity in the rear of the body promotes NVH performance.
Suzuki models, such as the Swift, incorporate chassis technologies fine-tuned for European roads. Suzuki has improved these technologies further for the new SX4 to give drivers greater enjoyment and greater peace of mind. The front wheels have a MacPherson-strut suspension system. A lighter, more rigid suspension frame helps ensure superior handling stability. The results of numerous tests on European roads are reflected in a superb combination of handling stability and driving comfort. Plus, increased rigidity in the mountings for the front struts and for the lower arms enhances handling and suppresses noise and vibration. Ventilated disc brakes at the front and solid disc brakes at the rear ensure plenty of stopping power. Newly specified material for the pistons keeps down weight and improves the braking “feel”.
Safety The new SX4 gives both drivers and passengers peace of mind in everyday motoring by means of its superior stability and comprehensive active and passive safety facilities. It also incorporates a range of standard safety features which protect pedestrians. The body features Suzuki’s Total Effective Control Technology (TECT) concept for occupant-protecting impact absorption and low weight. Extensive use of high-tensile steel for key parts helps to keep the body light and enhances the vehicle’s crashworthiness substantially. The active safety equipment includes a speed limiter, which prevents the car from exceeding a driver-set speed, an ESP®, which promotes stability, and a TPMS, which helps the user keep the tyres correctly inflated. Passive safety equipment includes seven airbags, which offer protection in the event of frontal, lateral or rear impact, seatbelt pretensioners and force limiters, and a me-
chanism which limits backward movement of the brake pedal. In addition, bonnet shape and new structures for the cowl top, wipers and bumpers provide impact absorption which lessens the degree of harm if the car comes into contact with a pedestrian. *Note: ESP is a registered trademark of Daimler AG
SUZUKI’S NEW SX4 FUEL CONSUMPTION AND CO2 EMISSIONS 1.6 litre petrol Drive system Transmission EASS*
FOCUS - SUZUKI’S NEW SX4
2WD 2WD 2WD 4WD 4WD 4WD *Engine Auto Stop Start system
5MT 5MT CVT 5MT 5MT CVT
Fuel consumption combined (L/100km)
with without without with without without
CO2 emissions combined (g/km)
5.4 5.5 5.5 5.7 5.9 5.7
125 127 125 130 135 130
1.6 litre diesel Drive system Transmission EASS* 2WD 2WD 4WD 4WD *Engine Auto Stop Start system
6MT 6MT 6MT 6MT
Fuel consumption CO2 emissions combined (l/100km) combined (g/km)
with without with without
4.2 4.4 4.4 4.6
Particulate emissions (mg/km)
110 115 114 120
0.19 0.17 0.25 0.27
SUZUKI’S NEW SX4 TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS 1.6-LITRE PETROL Cylinders 4 Displacement (cc) 1586 Bore (mm) 78 Stroke (mm) 83 Camshaft layout DOHC Variable valve timing Intake Valves per cylinder 4 Camshaft drive system Silent chain Compression ratio 11.0 Max. output (kW/rpm) 88/6,000 Max. torque (Nm/rpm) 156/4,400 Drive system Transmission 2WD 5MT 2WD CVT 4WD 5MT 4WD CVT
Max. speed (km/h) 0-100km/h (secs) 180 11.0 170 12.4 175 12.0 165 13.5
1.6-LITRE DIESEL Cylinders 4 Displacement (cc) 1598 Bore (mm) 79.5 Stroke (mm) 80.5 Camshaft layout DOHC Valves per cylinder 4 Camshaft drive system Belt and cam-to-cam gears Compression ratio 16.5 Fuel injection Common rail Turbocharger VGT Emission control system CCDPF Max. output (kW/rpm) 88/3,750 Max. torque (Nm/rpm) 320/1,750 Drive system Transmission 2WD 6MT 4WD 6MT
Max. speed (km/h) 0-100km/h (secs) 180 12.0 175 13.0
KEY DIMENSIONS Overall length Overall width Overall height (with roof rails) Wheelbase Treads Luggage capacity (VDA) Tyre size
New SX4 4,300mm 1,765mm 1,580mm (16” wheels) 1,575mm (17” wheels) 2,600mm Front 1,535mm Rear 1,505mm 430 205/60R16 205/50R17
Current SX4 4,150mm 1,755mm 1,605mm 2,500mm Front 1,500mm Rear 1,495mm 270 205/60R16
THE GREEN SIDE
THE BMW i3 UNVEILED SIMULTANEOUSLY IN BEIJING, LONDON AND NEW YORK
BMW i3: ELECTRIC AND INTELLIGENT
The BMW i3 is a premium car designed from the ground up to be powered by an electric drive system. The result is hallmark BMW driving pleasure in undiluted form, delivered with zero emission. The electric motor, power electronics and high-voltage lithium-ion battery have been developed and manufactured independently by the BMW Group under its BMW eDrive programme. The BMW i3 is the first series-produced model to benefit from the results of the research and development work carried out by the BMW Group as part of project i and focusing on sustainable solutions for day-to-day mobility.
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he vehicle concept behind the BMW i3 was designed from the outset to incorporate an all-electric drive system. The engineers were able to focus entirely on shaping the character of the BMW i3 as a sporty and agile, yet also comfortable premium car for an urban environment. When it comes to the driving attributes of the i3, the engineers have achieved a perfect balance of vehicle weight, performance and range. This is particularly important since these three factors are so inextricably linked. The operating range of electric vehicles can be extended by increasing battery size, but that adds weight and therefore has a negative impact on performance. Similarly, a more powerful motor requires more energy, which again means heavier batteries or restricted range. A lightweight body, on the other hand, enhances performance and the weight saving can be “invested� in larger batteries which, in turn, boost the car’s range.
THE GREEN SIDE - BMW I3: ELECTRIC AND INTELLIGENT
CLIP The BMW i3 will be available to customers in Germany (base price Euro 34,950) in November 2013. BMW i3 products and services will be sold via a multichannel sales model, comprised of authorized BMW i partners, a Customer Interaction Center (CIC) as well as an online platform. All sales channels will be fully networked and customers will be able to personalize their entire purchasing process to suit their needs. Some markets will also introduce a mobile sales force, a sales team which will be available to customers outside the traditional showroom.
With a DIN kerb weight of 1,195 kilograms the car is lighter than most compact vehicles, yet offers significantly more space for up to four occupants. It also has the edge over conventionally powered models of a comparable size and output in the sprints from 0 to 100 km/h / 62 mph, which it completes in 7.2 seconds, and 0 to 60 km/h / 37 mph (3.7 seconds). Furthermore, extensive road tests conducted as part of project i proved that the car’s range of 130 to 160 kilometres (81 – 99 miles) in everyday conditions is adequate to comfortably meet the day-to-day mobility needs of the target customer group. Every step in the development of the series production model has been shaped by the demands of weight optimisation, from the concept underpinning the vehicle architecture and the development of individual components to the smallest details of the car’s design. The LifeDrive architecture developed specifically for BMW i models has created the perfect framework for purpose-built electrically powered car concepts. Here, the carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) construction of the passenger cell (Life module) plays a central role. Such extensive use of this lightweight and crash-safe high-tech material is unique in volume car production. The principle of lightweight design also governs the aluminium Drive module and the connection between the two elements. The body structure enables the use of a trailing edge element made by glass-fibre-reinforced plastic injection moulding. And that contributes a 30 per cent weight saving compared with a conventional sheet ste-
el solution. Weight-minimising construction also sets the tone for the chassis components of the BMW i3. For example, the forged aluminium suspension links weigh around 15 per cent less than in a conventional design, the hollow drive shaft is 18 per cent lighter than a conventional equivalent, and the standard 19-inch forged aluminium wheels of the BMW i3 are 36 per cent lower in weight than comparable steel rims of the same size. Using a magnesium supporting structure for the instrument panel saves weight on two fronts. Superior material attributes over conventional sheet steel allow these components to boast optimised geometry, which results in a weight reduction of some 20 per cent. In addition, the high composite rigidity of the magnesium supporting structure lends it a strengthening effect, which allows a reduction in components and lowers weight by a further 10 per cent. The door trim panels are made from renewable raw materials and tip the scales around 10 per cent lighter than conventional equivalents. And the rigorous application of the lightweight design strategy extends to screws and bolts made from aluminium.
Agility and driving pleasure The low and central position of the battery pack has a similarly positive effect on the car’s agility to the balanced 50 : 50 weight distribution enabled by the arrangement of all the components in the Drive module. The battery is encased in aluminium sections and is particularly well positioned from a crash safety perspective. The electric motor and transmission unit are located in direct proximity to the driven rear axle. The car’s rear-wheel drive allows the front axle to remain free of torque steer and fulfil its steering function to full effect. Its small turning circle of 9.86 metres and a steering set-up that demands just 2.5 turns from lock to lock enhance the agile handling of the BMW i3. The BMW i3 has MacPherson single-joint front suspension and a five-link rear axle mounted directly to the Drive module. This design assists the functional separation of wheel location and suspension, resulting in sporting driving characteristics defined by impressive longitudinal and lateral dynamics combined with superior suspension comfort. The rigorous adherence to lightweight design principles yields a reduction in unsprung masses to the benefit of ride comfort at all speeds.
THE GREEN SIDE - BMW I3: ELECTRIC AND INTELLIGENT
CLIP The Driving Assistant Plus that is optionally available for the BMW i3 comprises Collision Warning with brake priming function, which is activated at speeds up to 60 km/h (approx. 37 mph) and is able to respond to both moving and stationary vehicles ahead, as well as to pedestrians. It also comes with Active Cruise Control including Stop & Go function. In addition to visual and audible warnings, the system is furthermore capable of braking the vehicle by itself, if required, with up to maximum stopping power. The Parking Assistant can likewise be found on the list of optional extras and performs the steering manoeuvres at the same time as controlling accelerator, brake and gear selection, enabling fully automated parallel parking of the BMW i3.
THE GREEN SIDE - BMW I3: ELECTRIC AND INTELLIGENT
The BMW i3’s forged aluminium wheels also boast outstanding rigidity and extremely low weight at less than seven kilograms each. The dimensions of the standard tyres (155 / 70 R19) are specific to the BMW i3. Interventions by the BMW i3’s DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) driving stability system are only required in extreme situations, and body movements are minimal. The standard DSC system offers all the functions familiar from current BMW models, including the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Cornering Brake Control (CBC), Dynamic Brake Control (DBC), Brake Assist, Brake Standby, Start-Off Assistant, Fading Compensation and the Brake Drying function. The DTC (Dynamic Traction Control) mode, activated at the touch of a button, raises the intervention thresholds of the stability control system and allows a controlled degree of slip through the BMW i3’s driven wheels when pulling away on snow or loose sand or in particularly dynamic cornering.
CLIP The lithium-ion battery in the BMW i3 can be recharged from any standard domestic socket to give maximum flexibility since the charging lead for connecting to the mains supply is carried in the vehicle at all times. However, energy levels can be topped up very quickly and conveniently at one of the charging stations specially designed for electric vehicles. The BMW ConnectedDrive services help drivers to quickly pinpoint these charging points by displaying all available charging stations along the route or in the vicinity of the destination on the navigation map. The BMW ConnectedDrive server additionally provides up-to-theminute data indicating whether potential charging stations will actually have spaces available on arrival.
Electric motor sets new standards in power density The hybrid synchronous electric motor of the BMW i3 generates output of 125 kW/170 hp and puts maximum torque of 250 Newton metres (184 lb-ft) on tap from the moment the car pulls away. The BMW i3 dashes from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 7.2 seconds, having accelerated from rest to 60 km/h (37 mph) in just 3.7 seconds. Power is sent to the rear wheels through a single-speed transmission, allowing the BMW i3 to accelerate with an uninterrupted flow of power up to its top speed, which is limited to 150 km/h (93 mph) in the interests of efficiency. A specific arrangement and dimensions for the components used to generate drive produces a self-magnetising effect only otherwise induced by reluctance motors. This additional excitation causes the electromechanical field formed by the current supply to remain stable even at high revs. The maximum revs of the motor developed for the BMW i3 – known as a hybrid synchronous motor on account of its specific combination of properties – are 11,400 rpm.
CLIP The comprehensive 360° ELECTRIC package provides an especially reliable, convenient and flexible way of harnessing the benefits of electric mobility during everyday driving, with customers deciding for themselves which particular features they wish to use. The 360° ELECTRIC portfolio has four mainstays essentially covering the areas of home charging, public charging stations, safeguarding mobility, and integration into innovative mobility concepts to overcome range restrictions. These include the premium car-sharing service DriveNow, which has been available in Germany since 2011 and in San Francisco since September 2012. It was here that the ParkNow facility was also introduced as a world first, enabling parking spaces to be booked via a smartphone app. ParkNow and other services are offered to customers through BMW ConnectedDrive and made available for use in their navigation system.
THE GREEN SIDE - BMW I3: ELECTRIC AND INTELLIGENT
The motor’s average power consumption of around 0.13 kilowatt hours per kilometre (0.21 kilowatt hours per mile) in the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC) plays a key role in optimising the car’s range. Also helping to deliver the BMW i3’s engaging driving experience is the singlepedal control feature. Recuperation mode is activated the moment the driver takes his foot off the accelerator. The electric motor switches from
drive to generator mode, feeding power into the lithium-ion battery. At the same time, it generates a precisely controllable braking effect. This recuperation is speed-sensitive, which means the car “coasts” with maximum efficiency at high speeds and generates a strong braking effect at low speeds. The ability to accelerate and brake using just one pedal creates an unusually direct interaction between driver and car. Thinking ahe-
ad in city traffic can allow the driver to carry out 75 per cent of braking manoeuvres without applying the brake pedal. The brake lights illuminate if the amount of recuperation in progress produces the same braking effect as actually pressing the brake pedal. The conventional braking system only joins the action if the driver summons greater braking power by depressing the brake pedal.
CLIP The BMW Group debuted the series version of its innovative electric vehicle, the BMW i3, simultaneously in New York, London and Beijing. “Innovation drives change. The i3 is more than just a car. It’s a revolutionary step towards sustainable mobility. It is purpose-built around an electric power train to serve the needs of our megacity customers” said Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG, Norbert Reithofer, at the world premiere in New York on Monday July 29.
THE GREEN SIDE - BMW I3: ELECTRIC AND INTELLIGENT
Storage technology and energy management The high-voltage battery in the BMW i3 consists of eight modules (each with 12 individual cells), which together produce a rated voltage of 360 volts and generate approximately 22 kilowatt hours of energy. In order to maintain their output and storage capacity over time, the battery management system therefore controls both the charging and the discharging processes, as well as the operating temperature of the cells. When the vehicle is on the move all the cells are used equally to supply energy. However, it is also possible to replace individual modules in the event of a fault. The air conditioning coolant is used to provide extremely effective cooling of the high-voltage battery, and this fluid can also be warmed using a heat exchanger. All these characteristics enable the optimum operating temperature of around 20 degrees Celsius to be reached before a journey begins, even when the ambient temperature is low. This preconditioning ensures the battery operates to optimum effect in terms of power output, range and durability. The BMW Group has planned and developed this battery to last for the full life of the vehicle. The battery warranty is valid for eight years or 100,000 kilometres (62,000 miles). The battery pack is mounted flat in the Drive module and weighs approximately 230 kilograms. The battery casing and its model-specific attachment systems were developed to provide the high-voltage battery with extensive protection against environmental factors and in the event of a crash. The power electronics responsible for the interaction between the battery and electric motor are also developed by the BMW Group. The power electronics serve both as an inverter for the power supply from the battery to the electric motor and as a voltage transducer interacting between the high-voltage battery and the 12-volt onboard power system. Highly sophisticated software control ensures the best possible current flow during energy recuperation on the overrun. And the operation of battery charging systems is also integrated into the power electronics, which regulate charge outputs of between 3 kW and 50 kW, depending on the electricity source. In order to make topping up the car’s power supply as user-friendly as possible for the driver, the BMW i3 lays on an extremely flexible and efficient charging system. Customers can charge their car from a conventional domestic plug socket or have a BMW i Wallbox installed, which uses the maximum current strength available at the property to charge the battery in around six hours – even in its basic configuration. When the BMW i3 is plugged into a modern public fast-charging station (50 kW) it only takes about 30 minutes for the battery to reach 80 per cent capacity.
THE GREEN SIDE - BMW I3: ELECTRIC AND INTELLIGENT
If desired, the BMW i3 is also available with a range-extender engine, which maintains the charge of the lithium-ion battery at a constant level while on the move as soon as it dips below a certain value. Performing this role is a 650cc two-cylinder petrol engine developing 25 kW/34 hp, which is mounted immediately adjacent to the electric motor above the rear axle. Specifying the range extender has no effect on luggage capacity: the nine-litre fuel tank is located in the front section of the car. The combustion engine develops maximum output of 25 kW/34 hp and drives a generator to produce electricity. It is brought into play as required, responding optimally to match the load and running extremely efficiently. Driving in ECO PRO mode or ECO PRO+ mode can increase the range of the BMW i3, in each case by around 20 kilometres (12 miles). And if the range extender is specified, the BMW i3 will be able to travel more than 100 kilometres (over 60 miles) further before refuelling. Maximum range stands at approximately 300 kilometres (186 miles). BMW ConnectedDrive in the BMW i3 The BMW i3 offers a complete connectivity. Cutting-edge driver assistance systems coupled with mobility services from BMW ConnectedDrive that have been specially tailored for the all-electric drive technology serve to optimise safety, convenience and the usability of in-car infotainment products, as well as providing the ideal conditions for completing everyday journeys with zero emissions.
BMW ConnectedDrive is unique in the way it helps drivers to implement their mobility plans to combine sustainability and driving pleasure in perfect harmony. Navigation services that have been purposedeveloped with the demands of electric mobility in mind complement the proven products from the revised BMW ConnectedDrive portfolio. These include mobility services, such as the Concierge Services for information and the Intelligent Emergency Call function, along with an array of innovative driver assistance systems that make an effective contribution to enhancing the convenience and safety of urban mobility. Access to the BMW ConnectedDrive services is ensured by a SIM card that comes built into the vehicle as standard. Connectivity between driver and car is also taken into a whole new dimension in the BMW i3. The BMW ConnectedDrive Remote app for BMW i also makes the vehicle data used for mobility planning available on the customer’s smartphone. Alongside the pedestrian navigation function for finding the way from the parked car to the final destination and back again, BMW ConnectedDrive also boasts a unique intermodal route guidance feature that is capable of incorporating local public transport connections into mobility planning. The mobility planning information provided is made available on the customer’s smartphone as well as in the vehicle. This connectivity is provided by an application developed especially for BMW i for mobile phones with the iOS and Android operating systems. The app is an enhanced version of the remote services offered by BMW ConnectedDrive.
BMW i3 TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
CLASSIC
THE VOLVO DUETT TURNS 60 The 2013 marks the 60th anniversary of the Volvo Duett, Volvo’s first series-produced estate car and the starting point of the company’s proud estate car tradition… those who used the 445 on a daily basis soon discovered that the car was capable of carrying much more than it was officially allowed to do.
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n 1944, the round-backed compact PV444 was shown for the first time. It was the car that would transform Volvo from being a small-scale Swedish car manufacturer into a respected player on the international car market. It went into production in 1947, and at the same time it was becoming evident that not only passenger cars were in demand, but also small commercial vehicles for various requirements. Volvo had nothing to offer at the time, because the PV444 was of unitary construction and therefore not very suitable to build on. A commercial version of the PV had to be designed, using a light but strong separate chassis frame. Â
CLASSIC - THE VOLVO DUETT TURNS 60
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he production of this chassis started in the summer of 1949. It was similar to the PV444 in size and price, as well as in appearance because the front wings and bonnet came straight off the 444. The 445, however, was distinguished from the 444 by having a grille with five horizontal chrome bars instead of four. Payload was slightly above 500kg depending on body version. A pickup was lighter and could carry more weight than a heavier van as the car was anyway capable of carrying much more than it was officially allowed to do. The small 1.4 litre OHV four with its 40 hp had power enough to propel the car efficiently in urban traffic. Its low gearing provided very good acceleration but made the car noisy and thirsty at higher speeds on longer runs. The mechanics and all other equipment were all PV444 except for the rear axle which was sprung by two very stiff semielliptic leaf springs rather than the more comfortoriented coil-spring suspension of the 444.
The 445 was delivered in driveable chassis form without bodywork behind the driver’s seat. Instead, there were over 30 different coachbuilding companies in Sweden at the time, offering different bodywork on Volvo chassis. Most of these bodies were vans and pickups, although a handful were built with convertible bodies and some became estate cars. Most of these cars were very simple. For van, hearse and ambulance bodies, wooden frames with sheet steel panelling were used, like the cabs of the pickups. Very few all-steel bodies and cabs were fitted to the 445, mainly due to time and cost restrictions. The interiors of these vehicles were also practical and utilitarian rather than comfortable. The cosiness factor was low. It was up to the driver to create a snug and comfortable working place. And that was exactly what the 445 was for its users, a place of work.
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fter a few years of supplying the market with 445 chassis, Volvo realized that the tough and long-lasting little stalwarts were not being replaced with new ones, or scrapped at the rate Volvo had expected. They were simply too good. By the beginning of 1952, Volvo found itself with 1,500 unsold 445 delivery chassis parked outside the factory; cars that should have been sold a long time ago. This annoyed Volvo president Assar Gabrielsson. On top of that, more and more car manufacturers started to offer their own factory-made vans and estates, and the coachbuilding companies were facing very hard times. But the 445s had to be sold just the same, and why use an outside body supplier to make them attractive? “Build our own Volvo van!” was Gabrielsson’s order and thus was born the Volvo Duett, Volvo’s first van/estate model. Young engineer Erik Skoog and his small team went to work straight away. They designed a versatile body for the 445 chassis which was equally suitable for transporting either goods or people. He ordered the necessary tooling and less than 15 months later (on 4th July 1953)
delivered the first 445 Duett to its eager “customer”, Volvo president Assar Gabrielsson himself. With the Duett, Volvo was able to offer both commercial vans and slightly more luxurious versions for family use rather than strictly business use. At the same time, the Duett was intended to serve as two cars; one for work during the week and one for weekend leisure time, hence its name Duett, meaning two cars in one. Like its predecessor, the Duett could also be delivered as a bare chassis for alternative bodywork but such versions became more and more rare. The practical and roomy standard versions of the Duett (with or without rear side windows) could handle most small and midsize transport needs. It was the perfect choice for the small business. The Duett became a legend in its own lifetime and is today one of the most popular and sought-after Volvos by collectors and enthusiasts. It was a real workhorse, it could stand up to almost anything and seemed to last forever. And it had charm too. There are still Duetts in daily use, both by private owners and in the hands of small companies.
CLIP
CLASSIC - THE VOLVO DUETT TURNS 60
Most of the Duett development work was carried out at the Volvo pressing plant in Olofstrรถm. The bodies were manufactured there too. Final assembly was carried out in the Volvo Lundby plant in Gothenburg. The different versions were classified as Delivery chassis, Estate car, Van, Passenger estate car and 210 Duett. The total Duett production came to just over 97,000 units and with the separate chassis versions added, the total number was 101,492.
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he first Duetts were designated 445 (like their predecessors) with an added letter combination denoting the body type and trim level. It was not until 1960, when the car was thoroughly reworked (a one-piece windscreen and a four-speed gearbox were introduced) that the name was changed to 210. Two years later it also aquired the B18 engine. The Duett was the last Volvo car to be built on a separate frame and in spite of continuous technical improvements, it retained its 1940s look throughout its life.
During its last year of production (1969), Sweden introduced new crash test legislation and with a design dating back to the late 1940s, Volvo realized that the Duett would not pass these new crash tests. This prompted Volvo to end production and all but one example of the 1969 Duetts were exported. This, the very last Duett produced, carries chassis number 97299 and can be seen in the Volvo Museum. It is finished in dark blue with fawn vinyl interior.Â
CLASSIC
“UNIQUES SPECIAL ONES” FOR THE FIRST TIME IN RUSSIA
The international concours “uniques special ones” for the first time will take place in Saint Petersburg (Russia) from the 30th of August to the 1st of September. The Elagin Island will be hosting this prestigious international event: a rendez-vous for one-off and rare cars of yesterday and today. “uniques special ones” is organised by MAC Group in collaboration with Baltic Hotel.
St. Petersburg, Mikhailovsky-Castle St. Petersburg, Yelagin Palace
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he famous international concours was established in Florence three years ago. It brings together exclusive cars owned by famous people, famous sport teams’ cars, cars appearing in movies and also modern unique models. The founder of the “uniques special ones” project Sandro Binelli describes it as “not just a show, not just a competition, it’s a passion for the cultural heritage of the classic car industry”. This year, the International Car Concours will be held in Russia for the first time. To enter the “uniques special ones” international concours classic or modern cars must fall under at least one of the following categories: uniqueness, exclusivity, exceptionableness, unrepeatability and extraordinariness. These shall be one-off models, the remaining cars from extremely limited productions, prototypes, concept and show cars; also cars that gained fame through their participation in historical events, cars that belonged to famous owners, press cars; team cars; works cars; cars that have appeared in films or TV series; cars with the first or last chassis number and/or the earliest surviving or most recently built example remaining of a particular model. Last year (when the event was organized in Florence, Italy) vehicles and items exhibited reached a total value of over 150 million euros and this year the figure is expected to be higher.
Alfa Romeo 6C 2500 SS Coupé Pininfarina (1949) winner of the last year concours in Florence
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hroughout the event two panels of eminent Judges (a Technical Jury and a Style Jury) will have the difficult task of assigning the awards and the Best of Show of the concours. The event is a social gathering on an international level as opinion leaders will be present, along with prominent personalities in the world of Design, Automobiles, Culture and Communication. “uniques special ones” will bring top international collectors to St. Petersburg. “uniques was designed with the aim to be realised worldwide, within surroundings of great prestige able to recreate the atmosphere typical of the ‘uniques concept’. I am thus extremely proud to announce the first uniques special ones event abroad – states Sandro Binelli, Chairman of the MAC Group – Russia was strategically chosen to export our event to a market that has been standing out
CLASSIC - ALFA ROMEO
CLIP The Hermitage museum has already thought through an exclusive program specially for an event of such magnitude. It is no secret that there is a huge collection of Italian art at the museum. “This project is significant for the city, - said the official representative of M.B. Piotrowski, Torshina Lyudmila Evgenjevna, and the Hermitage made a lot of advances. We have concerned the event with great attention and interest and even developed a special exclusive program that will be offered only to the guests of «uniques special ones». After all, there was a car garage of Nikolay II at the Winter Palace”
for its increasing focus on luxury and exclusivity: it will be the first international car concours ever realised in St. Petersburg and targeted to the cosmopolitan audience distinctive of our project. We have never had a car or a collector from Russia before. I hope that this year we will see several Russian masterpieces. I was very surprised to find out that the car of Nikolay II is still kept in the Hermitage collection, as well as a garage which is located on the territory of the museum. ” Florence, the outstanding city that for the last three years has enchanted the participants of “uniques special ones”, will pass on the baton to the likewise striking St. Petersburg, as it has all the necessary ingredients: high art, lavish architecture, an extraordinary history and rich cultural traditions. The exhibition will take place on Yelagin Island. Luxury cars will be on display at the palace area of
the park. For other visitors the area will be partially closed. Because the price of cars starts from 5-7 million euros, only the chosen ones will be able to see them and touch them. A total of only three hundred tickets will go on sale, each costing 20,000 rubles. According to the Chairman of the Committee for Tourism of St. Petersburg, the project «uniques special ones» is very important for St. Petersburg. He believes that it will attract new high-level tourists who are interested in culture, architecture, events that are happening in the world. In his opinion, «uniques special ones» contributes to the development of a new round of tourism in St. Petersburg – the event tourism. The Director of the Kirov Central Park on Yelagin Island Pavel Andreevich Seleznev showed great interest to the event and confirmed that he will do everything possible so that it was implemented at a high level: “I would like to see this event becoming a regular event held at regular intervals on Yelagin Island. I really like the concept of the project and how it is intertwined with the history and uniqueness of the Yelagin Island”.
CLIP “unique special ones” has the patronage of: Saint-Petersburg Government – Committee on Tourism Development; Consulate General of Italy in St. Petersburg. The event also involves important institutions such as the State Hermitage Museum; the Russian Museum; Yelagin Park and the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum and the AllRussia Business Union. The particular emphasis on the feature that characterises the event, excellence, grows from the partnerships formed by the organisation. Gazprom – Neft and Sberbank are sponsoring 2013 “uniques special ones” as the organisation is also supported by Stefano Ricci, whose distinctive values are perfectly matched with those of the councours.
T
he list of participants is still being formed, but the arrival of 50-60 cars from all corners of the globe is planned. Last year, the exhibits have reached a total value of more than 150 million euros. This year, the lucky ones will be able to see and touch such cars as Ferrari 250, Alfa Romeo, Aston Martin and many others. In addition, the two-day car show will feature pieces of art created with the highest level of manual skills and collections of exclusive brand luxuries. Last year the fashion designer Stefano Ricci struck the audience with original diamond studs valued at one million euros. For two days, the jury will select the “Best of Show”. The jury will include a large number of famous people from around the world. Among them are Lorenzo Ramaciotti, the chief designer of the Italian company «Maserati», Ian Cameron, the chief designer of «Rolls-Royce», and Adolfo Orsi, a prominent figure in the automotive world. The winner will be awarded a luxurious cup, and his car will get the points increasing its value.
CLIP Attendance at the event is only open to participants and to those who succeeded in obtaining one of the 300 day access passes made available to the public each day of the event. For further information, please contact the organisers: Tel. +39 010 089 7006; email. info@uniquespecialones.com. Website: www.uniquespecialones.com
RACING by Niccolò Gargiulo
THE MAGIC SPA 24 HOURS Changing weather conditions, 66 GT race cars from nine different manufacturers, 70,000 spectators: the 65th running of the 24 Hours of Spa-Francorchamps on the famous Ardennes circuit had all the ingredients for a great GT race. After 24 eventful hours the Mercedes SLS of the HTP team took the victory thanks to drivers Bernd Schneider, Maximilian GĂśtz and Maximilian Buhk completing 564 laps, two more than the second overall Porsche 997 of Team Manthey and 6 more than the Audi R8 of the WRT Team.
p (Nissan GT-R Nismo GT3)
Ordonez/Mardenborough/Pyzera/Rei
Š Nissan-Racing
RACING - 24 HOURS SPA
Schneider/Buhk/GĂśtz (Mercedes SLS AMG GT3)
W
inning a 24 hours race is always a tough challenge. Avoiding mistakes and driving on a constant but fast pace are the secrets to succeed in an endurance race, and this was exactly the case of the winning Mercedes SLS. A banal mistake in fact condemned the Porsche 997 of Marc Lieb, Richard Lietz and Patrick Pilet to second place after it remained on the same lap as the leader for most of the race. Patrick Pilet overtook behind a safety car with just three hours remaining in the race resulting in a drive through penalty for the Porsche team. The final two hours meant a lot of problems for many teams: the Kessel Racing Ferrari 458 of Davide Rigon, Daniel Zampieri and Cesar Ramos were cruising third when the car had to be retired due to engine problems. Another heartbreak occurred to
the Vita4One Team when the number 26 BMW Z4 stuttered to a halt in the pit entrance after drivers Stefano Colombo, Greg Franchi, and Frank Kechele managed to gain fifth place. Audi’s challenge was down to one car from the Belgian Audi Club Team WRT squad, but the number 2 R8 LMS ultra of Andre Lotterer, Frank Stippler and Christopher Mies remained positive and finished third overall. Duncan Cameron, Matt Griffin, Alex Mortimer, and Toni Vilander took the Pro-Am class honours in the number 59 AF Corse Ferrari after an epic fight with the number 71 SMP Ferrari, while Jean-Luc Blanchemain, Jean-Luc Beaubelique, Patrice Goueslard and Fred Bouvy dominated the Gentlemen Trophy category with the SOFREV ASP Ferrari 458 Italia, winning the 2013 Trophy in the process.
RACING - 24 HOURS SPA
Lieb/Lietz/Pillet (Porsche 997 GT3 R)
Colombo/Franchi/Kechele (BMW Z4)
Lotterer/Mies/Stippler (Audi R8 LMS Ultra)
RACING - 24 HOURS SPA
Howard/Adam/Mc Kenzie/M端cke (Aston Martin Vantage GT3)
Cameron/Griffin/Mortimer/Vilander (Ferrari 458 Italia)
Blanchemain/Beaubelique/Goueslard/Bouvy (Ferrari 458 Italia)
RACING - 24 HOURS SPA
Hayek/Kox/Menten/Haane (Lamborghini LP560-4)
Bernd Schneider - Mercedes AMG SLS GT3 (Pro & Overall Winner): “I won here in 1989 and it was a great race for me and my only win in two years then. I didn’t know I would have to do a 24-hour qualifying, we were pushing the whole night and the last two hours I could be more gentle, but there was no relenting. The Porsche had a better fuel consumption and their stops were shorter, so we had to push harder to beat them. Without the drive through for these guys we would’ve had to battle to the finish line; I would’ve liked that though!” Marc Lieb - Porsche 997 GT3 R (2nd in Pro Class): “We gave everything we had, we were fighting very hard on track, the guys in the pits did an amazing job, we had the fastest pit stops and everything was going in the right direction, but we were lacking a bit of speed on track which made it very hard. At the end we had some small issues with our engine, we were running on five cylinders at the end, so we couldn’t fight anymore. We can be proud with P2; everyone did a fantastic job.”
RACING - 24 HOURS SPA
From left: Lotterer/Mies/Stippler (Audi R8 LMS Ultra); Schneider/Buhk/Gรถtz (Mercedes SLS AMG GT3); Lieb/Lietz/Pillet (Porsche 997 GT3 R)
RACE RESULTS
Nr. Cl.
Team
Drivers
1 84 PRO Schneider/Buhk/Götz HTP Motorsport (GER) 2 150 PRO Lieb/Lietz/Pillet Manthey Racing (DEU) 3 2 PRO Lotterer/Mies/Stippler Belgian Audi Club Team WRT (BEL) 4 6 PRO Primat/Jarvis/Haase Phoenix Racing (DEU) 5 59 PAM Cameron/Griffin/Mortimer/Vilander AF Corse (ITA) 6 71 PAM Salo/Ladygin/Shaitar/Mediani SMP Racing (RUS) 7 35 PAM Ordonez/Mardenborough/Pyzera/Reip Nissan GT Academy Team RJN(GBR) 8 18 PAM Hummel/Jans/Christodoulou/Jäger Black Falcon (DEU) 9 75 PRO Hennerici/Maassen/Soulet Prospeed Competition (BEL) 10 72 PAM Zlobin/Persiani/Ladygin/Babini SMP Racing (RUS) 11 83 PAM Clement/Pla/Armindo/Renauer SMG Challenge (FRA) 12 70 PAM Basov/Bobbi/Guidi/Skryabin SMP Racing (RUS) 13 33 PRO Bernhard/Bergmeister/Lapierre Pro GT by Almeras (FRA) 14 69 PRO Verdonck/Carroll/Bell Gulf Racing (GBR) 15 88 PRO Senna/Barff/Goodwin Von Ryan Racing (NZL) 16 20 GTR Blanchemain/Beaubelique/Goueslard/Bouvy SOFREV Auto Sport Promotion (FRA) 17 73 PAM Aleshin/Markozow/Frolov/Move SMP Racing (RUS) 18 52 GTR Brandela/Gorini/Lemeret/Prignaud Sport Garage (FRA) 19 111 GTR Paladino/Andreasi/Perez/Ciro Kessel Racing (CHE) 20 44 PRO Rigon/Ramos/Zampieri Kessel Racing (CHE) 21 98 PAM Klohs/Ragginger/Asch/Richter Fach Auto Tech (CHE) 22 26 PRO Colombo/Franchi/Kechele Vita4one Racing Team (DEU) 23 99 PAM Howard/Adam/Mc Kenzie/Mücke Beechdean AMR (GBR) 24 19 PAM Lebed/Afanasiev/Simonsen/Castellacci Black Falcon (DEU) 25 53 GTR Caccia/Demay/Duqueine/Marie Sport Garage (FRA) 26 58 GTR Kelders/Desbrueres/Rostan/Hirschi Delahaye Racing (BEL) 27 23 PRO Luhr/Kane/Dumbreck JRM (GBR) 28 34 PAM Giauque/Dermont/Perera/Trafford Pro GT by Almeras (FRA) 29 48 GTR Grandjean/Rosenblad/Rich/Harkema Prospeed Competition (BEL) 30 16 PRO Ide/Kumpen/Winkelhock Phoenix Racing (DEU)
Car
Laps
Mercedes SLS AMG GT3 Porsche 997 GT3 R Audi R8 LMS Ultra Audi R8 LMS Ultra Ferrari 458 Italia Ferrari 458 Italia Nissan GT-R Nismo GT3 Mercedes SLS AMG GT3 Porsche 997 GT3 R Ferrari 458 Italia Porsche 997 GT3 R Ferrari 458 Italia Porsche 997 GT3 R McLaren MP4-12C McLaren MP4-12C Ferrari 458 Italia Ferrari 458 Italia Ferrari 458 Italia Ferrari 458 Italia Ferrari 458 Italia Porsche 997 GT3 R BMW Z4 Aston Martin Vantage GT3 Mercedes SLS AMG GT3 Ferrari 458 Italia Porsche 997 GT3 R Nissan GT-R Nismo GT3 Porsche 997 GT3 R Porsche 997 GT3 Cup Audi R8 LMS Ultra
564 563 558 557 557 556 553 551 550 547 545 544 543 542 540 539 539 537 534 528 526 525 524 520 507 505 497 495 488 453
ROMEO FERRARIS BULLETIN
ADVERTORIAL
THE CINQUONE PROTAGONIST IN UK
The 2013 Silverstone Classic – the world’s biggest motor racing festival – eclipsed its record number of entries, producing some of the best historic racing ever seen in the process. Unlike other similar events, the gathering at Silverstone is characterized by an “Access All Areas” policy, allowing the spectator close to all the action, rock and classical music entertainment, aerobatic displays, shopping … but most of all classic cars.
D
uring the last week-end of July a total of 1113 entries showcasing incredible singleseater, sportscar and touring car machines, spanning nearly 90 years of glorious motorsport history, followed up Saturday’s wonderful action with another packed schedule of races on Sunday, watched by a record crowd close to 90,000 fans over the weekend. Among the guests of honor at the 2013 edition of the British event was also Romeo Ferraris, invited to exhibit three of its tuning beauties from the series based on the 500 Abarth, which name is “Cinquone”. After the great success in continental Europe, the Italian tuning brand has chosen three models for its UK debut: the Cinquone, the Cinquone Estremo and the Cinquone Racing, racing version characterized by a high efficiency aero package as well as a great aesthetic appeal. For the British public this was a real “premiere” and we could say that the presence of the Cinquone at Silverstone was possible after the insistence and pressure by some English fan clubs (in particular a strong partnership was built with Club Abarth UK and with TMC Motorsport). The British fans have reserved a super-warm welcome to the “specials” of the Milan Factory: two of the three Cinquone present have been quickly sold!
S
o the sun has set on another recordbreaking entertainment extravaganza, with 24 superb races, rocking and rolling concerts and heaps of family fun capping an excellent Silverstone Classic. Silverstone Classic Event Director Nick Wigley said: “It has gone fantastically well, it has just been phenomenal from my point of view. The Classic is getting bigger every year, we’ve hit some record numbers in 2013. We’ve had 1113 entries which is more than ever before, 1208 Porsche 911s on the circuit which is more cars than ever before, and there’s been a fantastic increase in ticket sales. I’ve just been up on the BMW eye to close out the day, and it’s incredible to see how this event has developed over the last four years.”
ADVERTORIAL
The Cinquone, the Cinquone Racing and the Cinquone Estremo achieved a big success at Silverstone Classic 2013
CLIP ANOTHER SUCCESS IN CHINA Summer means that the 2013 racing season reaches its crucial period and for the Romeo Ferraris Team there is no lack of satisfaction, after having undertaken technical, organizational and logistical efforts of great relevance. On one hand Thomas Biagi confirms his leadership in the International Superstars Series as Vitantonio Liuzzi his leading the Italian Championship general standing, on the other hand, very far away, the technical supremacy of the Mercedes AMG C63 “made in Romeo Ferraris� found further glory collecting its third win (out of four races so far) in the Pan Delta trophy, which is run on the Zhuhai circuit in southern China, near Macau. In the capable hands of Mario Ferraris, the pink Mercedes has impressed in the series round, gaining the upper hand after battling with competitors such as the expert Chinese drivers Sun Tit-Fan (Mitsubishi Evo) and Zhu Xiao-Dong (BMW M3). In front of more than 20.000 spectators Ferraris reaffirmed the superiority shown already in March, bringing the Mercedes AMG of the Milan-based tuning brand to become the reference point of the world that revolves around the Pan Delta series. The next race of the Pan Delta championship is scheduled, as always in Zhuhai, on September 22 and on that occasion the team could fill the starting grid with a second car raced by a local driver.
Via Lambro, 33 - 20090 Opera (MI) - Italy ph.: +39 02 57601636 +39 02 57603024 fax: +39 02 57605308 e-mail : info@romeoferraris.com
AUTOSPORT MIX
THOMAS BIAGI, NOT JUST A FAST DRIVER
N
ow leader of the 2013 Superstars International Series with one of the two AMG Mercedes entered by the Romeo Ferraris Team, Thomas Biagi is one of the very few professional drivers that is also manager of himself, voting 100% of his time, in and out the track, to his driver’s career. Born in Bologna on May 7th 1976, Biagi started his career with karting and became Italian Champion, then he quickly moved to F. Alfa Boxer, to Formula 3 (where he triumphed) and to the International F.3000, category in which he became European vice-Champion before gaining some precious experience behind the wheel of several F.1 cars. In 2003 Thomas left the open wheels racing to drive a Ferrari GT. Thanks to 6 victories, 5 in a row, Biagi and his teammate Maurizio Bobbi were crowned World Champions in the very competitive FIA GT1 category. In 2007 the same title was confirmed with the Maserati MC12. In the Sports Cars, on a Lola Judd, he won the debut race in Barcelona’s 1000km in 2009 and ended the season dominating the 6 Hours of Vallelunga. In 2010 Thomas Biagi left the FIA GT for the emerging Superstars Series championship with the prestigious BMW Team Italy. Thanks to 3 victories and 8 podium finishes he was crowned Italian and International Champion in his debut season. During the 2012 season Thomas Biagi took part with BMW to the Superstars
Series and in parallel to the Italian GT Championship. He concluded the Superstars championship in third place and won the Italian GT Championship in his debut year. But recently the activity of this fast Italian driver has also moved to a new super-interesting experience called Grid GP. Together with former Ferrari F.1 engineer Luigi Mazzola, Biagi founded a driving academy able to offer to young drivers a unique mix of driving training (with “a state of the art” driving simulator), physical fitness, leadership skills, and ability to sustain the stress. The alchemy is quite unique … On one side is the experience of Grid Gp personnel, on the other the topend technology of the simulator. This mix allows drivers to analyse and improve their driving style by working on the smallest details and in the most diverse track conditions. Personalized programmes can be devised to allow drivers to prepare upcoming racing seasons in the best possible way as well as single races thanks to the possibility of choosing circuits and cars from a wide data library and of testing them with different setups and weather conditions. Specific interventions are also possible to focus on particular conditions such as start, safety car deployment, mechanical failures and punctures. The Grid GP facilities are located closed to Bologna (Italy) and for further information please contact info@gridgp.it
Bluebird to partecipate in Formula E series At the Sustainable MotoExpo (to be held in September in Beaulieu, Hampshire, UK), Don Wales will launch the Bluebird GTL electric race car. The Bluebird name is synonymous of fast cars and record-breaking a tradition continued by Don Wales, grandson of recordmen Sir Malcolm Campbell and nephew of Donald Campbell. The Bluebird GTL is an electric racing car designed to the latest technical regulations for the forthcoming FIA Formula E series.
Bentley Continental GT3 is ready to roar on track
Bentley debuted its new Continental GT3 race car at the Goodwood Festival of Speed. The Continental GT3 is powered by a raceprepared and dry-sump version of Bentley’s powerful but efficient 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8, with many components carried over from the road-going engine. Developing up to 600 bhp in unrestricted race configuration via a motorsport engine management system, the V8 provides the GT3 with highly competitive power in a compact and lightweight package that’s perfect for racing. Power is transmitted to the rear wheels via a carbon fibre propshaft to an Xtrac sixspeed sequential gearbox with a limited slip differential, mounted as a transaxle for optimised weight distribution. Gear actuations are completed via a pneumatic shift system, controlled by paddles mounted to the steering wheel. Once homologation with the FIA has been completed, the GT3 will enter its first development races before starting full competition in the FIA Blancpain Series in 2014.
Great Wall H5 shines on the shores of Lake Ladoga Starting in 1997, Ladoga Trophy is one of Russia’s most famous off-road races and saw its 17th edition
this year. Stretching on 1,200 kilometers, the route which is generally in the Leningrad Region and the Republic of Karelia, starts and ends in St. Petersburg. The race involves 9 classes, including 3 tourism categories and 6 competition categories. A special stage of 120 kilometers is included. Due to tough roads and harsh weather, “Ladoga” has become a byword for courage, stamina, passion and extreme sports, attracting adventurers from around the world every year. 178 teams entered for this year’s race. Great Wall H5 is making its debut in the race (according to the competition rules changing) with its engine and transmission unchanged. The model finished the 8-day race with an outstanding performance without any fault and finished 9th and 13th in the dune and beach stages.
GLOBAL NEWS Asia / Europe
South Korea / United Kingdom
GLOBAL NEWS
Hyundai Fuel Cell Cars to Arrive in London
Emission-free hydrogen powered vehicles will soon be operating in London. It is the intention that five Hyundai Motor ix35 Fuel Cell models – the first production fuel cell cars in the world – will be an integral part of the London Hydrogen Network Expansion (LNHE) project.
H
yundai Motor, as a supplier to the LHNE project, will join the existing consortium of companies with expertise in hydrogen transport infrastructure and operation, working to establish the UK’s first hydrogen transport network covering London and south east England. The LHNE project, a governmentbacked initiative co-funded by the Technology Strategy Board, will put hydrogen-fuelled vehicles into daily business use and deliver the refuelling infrastructure to support their operation. These fuel cell vehicles will be leased to key public and private fleet users in the capital. They are among the first of 1,000 examples that Hyundai Motor has committed to produce between now and 2015 and are built on the same production line, in Ulsan, Korea, as the Tucson. The majority of those 1,000 cars will be available in Europe where the European Commission has established a number of schemes to promote the use of hydrogen as an energy carrier with zero carbon content. With various hydrogen projects concentrating
on establishing hydrogen infrastructure in Europe, the timing is right for hydrogen-powered vehicles to accelerate the project. World’s first mass produced Fuel Cell vehicle As the first car company in the world to assembly lineproduce fuel cell vehicles, Hyundai Motor has enabled not just the real start of Europe’s Hydrogen Roadmap but also accelerated London’s plans to become one of the major hydrogen capitals of the world. For Hyundai Motor, the philosophy behind the ix35 Fuel Cell project has been to produce a car that offers the same practicality, safety levels and driving experience as an ix35 driven by an internal combustion engine, but with zero tailpipe emissions. That means comparable performance – 100mph maximum, 0-62mph in 12.5 seconds and a range of almost 370 miles from each tank – but with no emissions: the only emission is water.
GLOBAL NEWS
Quick and easy refuelling Just as importantly, a Fuel Cell vehicle can be refilled in two to three minutes and, in use, an ix35 Fuel Cell demands no compromise from the driver. Although Hyundai Motor has been developing its Fuel Cell vehicles for more than 15 years, it is only now - with the start of a viable hydrogen refuelling network in place - that it can consider putting a fuel cell car into series production. So after a number of ‘false dawns’ for hydrogen-powered cars, this time the Fuel Cell vehicle has a genuine, clear and realistic future here in the UK. Much of this is down to the work of the London Hydrogen Partnership and that of other projects such as the London Hydrogen Network Expansion project which is led by Air Products. With these key partners working together, hydrogen mobility is about to become a reality. Two hydrogen fuel stations are already open in the Capital – one of which has public access – with a third to come as part of the London Hydrogen Network Expansion (LHNE) project. Ten-fold increase in Fuel Cell vehicles by 2015 A further three fuelling stations are planned by 2015, by which time it is expected that the number of fuel cell vehicles in London will have risen ten-fold from the initial five to at least 50 or more including passenger cars, buses and scooters. Kit Malthouse, London Deputy Mayor for Business and Enterprise and Chairman of the London Hydrogen Partnership, said: “The work of the London Hydrogen Partnership and other projects has really catapulted London towards the forefront of the move to a hydrogen future. Battery electric vehicles are a great technology but like the fax machine they are only temporary and there is a great deal of consumer resistance towards them for all manner of reasons, including range and the time it takes to recharge them. Even though we have around 1,300 charging points in the capital you cannot guarantee getting a space outside your house to charge overnight: London is just too densely populated. For me, hydrogen cracks all those problems and it also solves other issues along the way such as making best use of wind energy, for example. We also produce a huge amount of waste and we are looking at schemes that convert biomass into hydrogen. So as well as producing a clean fuel we would be reducing the amount of waste we put into landfill.” The London Hydrogen Partnership has initiated more than £50 million worth of hydrogen projects already. Its partners have been involved in the implementation of the two existing refuelling stations, the operation of five fuel cell London buses which joined the Transport for London fleet in 2011, with another three to join in 2013, as well as a fleet of hydrogen iconic London taxis, fuelled by hydrogen.
Discover the Hyundai ix35
GLOBAL NEWS
At first glance the Hyundai ix35 Fuel Cell looks just like every other car that rolls off the assembly line in Ulsan, Korea. There are a few subtle changes – the blue-tinged badging, the grille and the lack of an exhaust pipe for example – but essentially it looks identical to the petrol and diesel-powered examples built on the same line. And that is as it should be. The design philosophy behind the world’s first series production ix35 Fuel Cell vehicle is that it should look, drive and behave just like a conventional car, demanding no compromises from its driver. It should also offer similar performance and range of any other conventional petrol or diesel model. The one big difference, however, is that it produces no tailpipe emissions. The result of intensive development since 1998, the first production ix35 Fuel Cell rolled off the line at the end of February 2013. The white ix35 was the first of 17 examples destined for fleet customers in Copenhagen, Denmark and Skane, Sweden where local authorities have started an extensive hydrogen project. The car and its driveline was engineered at Hyundai’s fuel cell R&D centre in Mabuk, Korea. The concept has already logged more than 2 million miles of testing under real-world conditions in Europe, Korea and the US. The ix35 was chosen as the basis for Hyundai’s first Fuel Cell vehicle partly due to the appeal of the conventional car. In creating the Fuel Cell version, Hyundai’s engineers have ensured that the installation of the fuel cell stack, hydrogen tanks, batteries and other key control systems of the drivetrain have not impacted on the usability of the car. The fuel cell is located under the bonnet, alongside other components such as the high voltage junction box and the compact electric motor which drives the front wheels. The high voltage battery and inverter system are housed in a waterproof casing, underneath the vehicle and mid mounted for optimum weight distribution. The major components of the fuel cell itself are the negatively charged anode and a positively charged cathode, with a proton exchange membrane (or PEM) sandwiched between the two. Hydrogen is drawn into the fuel cell stack, where it passes over the anode. At this point, the electrons within the hydrogen molecules are passed along the anode, whilst the hydrogen molecules protons are passed through the proton exchange membrane. The electrons continue to flow along the anode, through an electrical circuit and then along the cathode. It is this flow of electrons that produce electrical charge to both the on-board battery and the motor. The electrons join again with the protons that passed through the PEM and react with air from the atmosphere, producing water vapour. The fuel cell stack is controlled by a support system known as BOP (Balance of Plant), which controls careful management of heat and material flow. The ix35 BOP comprises three main elements: a Thermal Management System (TMS), Air Processing System (APS) and Fuel Processing System (FPS).
Heat is generated during the fuel cell stack operation, which can affect its efficiency. In the ix35 Fuel Cell, the TMS maintains the temperature of the fuel cell stack at an optimal level and has a number of different elements, including a stack water pump with a three-way valve that directs cooling water to different locations depending on requirements. A fuel cell vehicle also requires a reliable supply of air (oxygen) for the electrochemical reaction within the fuel cell. The ix35 Fuel Cell APS consists of a near silent and quick response blower and shut off valve, which shuts down air flow when the vehicle is not in use whilst a high grade air filter blocks particulate matters and chemicals such as SO2 (sulphur dioxide) from entering the fuel cell. The FPS converts high pressure hydrogen from the hydrogen tank into lower pressure hydrogen for use in fuel cell stack and also recirculates residual hydrogen in the stack to be reused. Lithium-ion batteries are mounted low in the centre of the car for optimum weight distribution and to provide a low centre of gravity. The ix35 Fuel Cell also has a conventional 12v battery located in the boot, which is used for starting and for powering ancillary devices such as the navigation system. There are two inter-linked hydrogen gas tanks that are made from carbonfibre and aluminium to save weight without compromising strength. One is located under the luggage floor and the second, smaller, tank is ahead of the rear axle. Together they hold 5.6kg of hydrogen at 700 bar: enough for a range of 594 kilometres (369 miles). Fuel consumption figures can be difficult to translate into traditional km/l or mpg figures, however to do so requires the comparison of the energy content of hydrogen and petrol. With a range of 594km and a tank capacity of 5.6kg of hydrogen, it equates that 1kg of hydrogen will deliver 106km of range. Hydrogen has around the same energy content of 3.7 litres of petrol, therefore this would give a “traditional” figure of 28.6 km. Performance is similar to a conventional ix35, with the fuel cell’s output of 100kW (136hp) giving a top speed of 100mph whilst 0-62mph takes 12.5 seconds, with 300Nm, of torque being available from a standstill. And there are no tailpipe emissions. The Fuel Cell vehicle is heavier by 100 kg than the conventional ix35 and the hydrogen tank under the boot floor is larger than a petrol or diesel tank. This means a luggage capacity of about 436 litres. The ix35 Fuel Cell has several modes of operation: in Fuel Cell Mode the fuel cell stack generates electricity supplied from the on-board hydrogen tank, which then drives the electric motor directly. In Power Assist Mode, electricity from the fuel cell stack is augmented by power from the high voltage (25kW) battery for an extra boost. In Power Charge Mode a portion of electricity being produced by the fuel cell is supplied to the battery to keep it topped up for later use. Under deceleration and braking, Regenerative Braking Mode allows kinetic energy to be converted back into electricity by the motor and inverter and is stored in the battery.
Europe
S. America / Europe
Germany
Brazil / Italy
3 million Audi A3 17 years of enduring global appeal have just culminated in the production of the three-millionth Audi A3. Car number three million is a 2.0 TDI quattro version in five-door Sportback form, one of three body styles currently available in the all-new, third generation A3 range, which for the first time also includes a four-door saloon option. More variants are set to follow. In 2012, Audi produced a total of 152,993 A3 series cars at its plant in Ingolstadt, Germany. This total included A3 and A3 Sportback models, as well as S derivatives. The new Audi A3 Sportback, launched in 2013, has accounted for the highest proportion of this production volume: Each day, about 700 examples of this popular variant roll off the assembly line.
The new Mopar Sensor Alert Kit for the new Fiat Palio has just hit the Italian brand dealerships in Brazil. The kit, comprising an alarm, radio and parking sensor, protects the vehicle and makes it safer to maneuver. Integrated into the radio, the display signals the distance of obstacles as obtained via the parking sensor. The radio also feature a USB port in order to connect MP3, WMA and AAC playing devices.
United States
Racing Industry trade show coming up Thousands of race teams, racing entrepreneurs and other motorsports professionals have already registered for the 2013 Performance Racing Industry Trade Show in Indianapolis, December 12-14. For 25 years the PRI Trade Show has delivered more race-winning parts, more racing professionals, and more business solutions than any other motorsport professionals gathering, and in 2013, the annual epicenter of new racing technology returns to the racing capital of America: Indianapolis, Indiana.
Europe
Asia
The new Fiat 500 website
“Robocar Poli” to teach children traffic safety
Italy
GLOBAL NEWS
New Mopar sensor kit hits the market
North America
On the occasion of the sixth birthday of the Fiat 500, the new website dedicated to the entire 500 family was launched on 4 July. The family members are the 500, 500C, 500L and the brand-new 500L Trekking and 500L Living models. Designed for the iPad, but totally usable from a PC, www.fiat500.com is an automotive website all wrapped up in one page, entirely browsable using two joystick cursors that make the user’s experience enjoyable and fun.
South Korea
Hyundai Motor Company is taking its traffic safety campaign for children global, extending its hugely successful corporate social responsibility project to countries outside its home market. Banking on the popularity of the animation character Robocar Poli, which Hyundai Motor developed together with Korean companies ROI Visual and EBS, the automaker will initially launch the 24-week animation series in China this year through an agreement with state-run CCTV (China Central Television). This will be followed by similar launches in Russia, Brazil and India by 2014. “Traffic Safety Stories with Robocar Poli”, part of the company’s `Safe Move’ CSR activities, is aimed at providing traffic safety education to children in an easy-to-learn and engaging way. The animation and relevant online, offline programs have not only gained massive popularity, but also achieved its educational purposes effectively since its launch in 2010.
Asia
North America / Europe
Japan
United States / Italy
Subaru maker celebrates 60 years anniversary Fuji Heavy Industries (FHI), the maker of Subaru automobiles, celebrated the 60th anniversary of the company. The origins of FHI go back to the 1917 founding of the “Aircraft Research Laboratory” which was later incorporated as “Nakajima Aircraft Co. Ltd”. After World War II, Nakajima Aircraft was re-organized as “Fuji Sangyo Co. Ltd”. Fuji Sangyo was divided into 12 separate companies in 1950 and shortly thereafter, on July 15 of 1953, five of those companies merged to form “Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd.”. In 1958, FHI flew the first Japan-made “T-1” jet trainer test plane and released the “Subaru 360” mini car.
The human FIAT 500 Abarth FIAT Brand North America unveiled a one-of-a-kind print ad featuring more than a dozen female artists, models and contortionists to recreate the image of a FIAT 500 Abarth Cabrio. “We wanted to create a concept for ESPN The Magazine’s Body Issue that was as visually unique as the Fiat 500 Abarth Cabrio,” said Jason Stoicevich, Head of FIAT Brand North America. “The notion of the ‘Body Paint’ print ad conveying athletic grace in a magazine that specifically devotes itself to covering athletes around the world sparked a perfect union for the FIAT Brand.”
South America / Europe
Asia
Fiat 37 years in Brazil
The Infinity Q50 steer-by-wire
Fiat has celebrated 37 years of operation in Brazil. The plant in Betim, Minas Gerais, was inaugurated on July 9, 1976, three years after the signing of the Communion of Interests between Fiat and the State of Minas Gerais. Since its inauguration, the factory of Betim produced over 13 million cars and light commercial vehicles, of which over 5 million are flex fuel. Among the biggest hits produced in Betim is the Uno, with more than 3.9 million units, and the Palio, which surpasses 3 million vehicles. Fiat celebrated the date as a leader in the Brazilian market, driven by an investment plan announced for Chrysler Group Fiat in Brazil, which adds $ 15 billion between 2013 and 2016. The company’s priorities are the expansion of production capacity, the development of new products, technological innovation and processes in order to allow the company to continue its leading role by launching safe, comfortable and efficient cars.
The Infinity Q50 will first to feature steer-by-wire technology: Direct Adaptive Steering works by electronically transferring the driver’s input to the front wheels where a high-response actuator drives the steering rack. By eliminating the mechanical losses that can dull the responses in conventional systems, steering response is faster and vibration at the steering wheel is eliminated. All this is achieved with a level of feedback from the road that is central to every Infiniti’s performance feel. Steering is adjusted on a touch screen as part of the Infiniti Drive Mode Selector. Depending on the model, there are up to four preset modes plus a personal setting that allows the driver to mix and match effort and response to suit individual driving style and type of road. Direct Adaptive Steering and Active Lane Control will be standard on the Infiniti Q50 3.5 Hybrid and optional on the Q50 2.2d. Infiniti Q50 models without Direct Adaptive Steering are equipped with electro-hydraulic steering that offers drivers the ability to customize steering weight.
Brazil / Italy
Japan
CORPORATE & FIGURES Asia
Europe
Japan
Germany
Worldwide Prius sales top 3 million mark
Daimler announces positive second quarter results
Toyota Motor Corporation has announced that as of the end of June, worldwide cumulative sales of the Prius petrol-electric hybrid vehicle passed the 3 million mark. In 1997, Toyota launched the Prius, which was the world’s first massproduction hybrid passenger car. The second generation followed in 2003, and the third generation in 2009. From the first to third generation, Toyota greatly reduced the cost of the hybrid system by two-thirds and reduced CO2 emissions from 114 g/ km to 89 g/km (measured using the EU Combined Driving Cycle). In the fiscal year ending March 2014, Toyota expects to spend a consolidated JPY 890 billion on environmental technology development, as well as on strengthening new platform and major component development.
The earnings posted by Daimler AG for the second quarter of 2013 were significantly higher than in the second quarter of last year and than the market expected. Daimler’s Group EBIT for the period of April through June amounted to €5,242 million (Q2 2012: €2,268 million). Earnings for the second quarter were boosted by a gain totaling €3.2 billion related to the remeasurement and to the sale of the remaining EADS shares. As a result of that transaction, net profit amounted to €4,583 million (Q2 2012: €1,565 million). Earnings per share amounted to €2.65 (Q2 2012: €1.39); adjusted for the EADS effect, earnings per share were €1.25.
Europe CORPORATE & FIGURES
Spain / Germany
Opel to produce Mokka in Spain Production of the Opel/Vauxhall Mokka will begin in Europe. GM’s plant in Zaragoza (Spain) will start producing the small SUV in the second half of 2014. GM and Opel/Vauxhall leader-
Oceania / Asia Australia / India
Tata enters Australian market Tata Motors, India’s largest automotive player, announced its entry into Australia, under a new independent distributor, M/s Fusion Automotive Pty Ltd. Australia. The latter will have exclusively marketing and distribution of the Tata Motors brand in Australia. Through Fusion Automotive Tata Motors will introduce a range of light commercial vehicles, in both the 4x2, 4x4, single and crewcab variants, with Euro V Turbo diesel engines. Fusion Automotive plans to appoint dealers across Australia with the estimated size of the dealer network being at 13 by the end of the year. There are further plans that Fusion Automotive will be expanding the network across Victoria, New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia and Western Australia over the next 12 months to about 25 dealers. ship made this joint decision because of the high demand for the vehicle in Europe. At the same time, additional capacity for small SUVs will be created at the plant in Bupyeong (Korea) that has been the unique source of production so far. Opel CEO Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann said: “The decision for Zaragoza follows our company’s strategy of building vehicles
where we sell them. The enormous demand for the Mokka underlines the attractiveness of our vehicles, adds momentum to our product offensive and secures jobs in Europe. The decision will help address the underutilisation of available production capacity in Europe and therefore is good news for the entire organisation.”
Asia
Europe
Mazda begins construction of new transmission plant in Thailand
Aston Martin technical partnership with Mercedes-AMG
Thailand / Japan
Mazda held a ceremony at the construction site of its new transmission plant in Thailand’s Chonburi province. Mazda’s Vice Chairman of the Board, Seita Kanai commented at the ceremony, “SKYACTIV technology is gaining wide acclaim all around the world. Establishing our second transmission plant, here in Thailand will greatly enhance our SKYACTIV production system and ensure that we can meet future demand for our products. This will not only help ensure Mazda’s continued growth into the future, but also make a significant contribution to the development of the automotive industry in Thailand.”
United Kingdom / Germany
Aston Martin is announcing moves towards a technical partnership with Mercedes-AMG. A Letter of Intent to this end has been signed and both parties are working towards signing definitive agreements before the end of the year. The proposed deal will see Aston Martin access significant Mercedes-AMG and Mercedes-Benz Cars’ resources, allowing the development of bespoke V8 powertrains and the use of certain components of electric/electronic architecture. Daimler AG will own a stake of up to five per cent non-voting shares in Aston Martin depending on the progress of the agreement. The company will join the existing shareholders that include Investment DAR, Adeem Investment and Investindustrial.
Asia
Japan
Subaru 6 months record sales in US and Canada Subaru automobiles announced that January-June sales of 2013 hit all-time highs in the U.S. and Canada. Subaru also posted best-ever June sales in both markets. The U.S. sales for the first 6 months of 2013 hit a record high with 204,597 units (up 24.5%) exceeding the 2012 record of 164,304 units. The growth was led by the Subaru XV (Subaru XV Crosstrek in North America) with 25,090 units. The sales in Canada for 2013 January-June period hit an all-time high with 17,184 units (up 16.9%) breaking the 2012 record of 14,699 units. As with the U.S., the sales were led by the Subaru XV (2,752 units).
North America / Asia
Europe
Kia reaches one million U.S.built vehicles
Volvo China sales up 34 per cent
United States / South Korea
Kia Motors Manufacturing Georgia celebrated as the one millionth vehicle – a snow white pearl 2014 Sorento SXL – rolled off the assembly line at the West Point (GA) automobile manufacturing facility. Representing an initial investment of $1 billion, mass production of the Sorento CUV began at West Point on November 16, 2009. Together with on-site and local suppliers, the plant is responsible for the creation of more than 11,000 jobs in the region. A $100 million expansion completed in early-2012 increased annual capacity to 360,000 vehicles.
Sweden
Volvo reports global retail sales of 40,939 cars for the month of June. China grew by no less than 74 per cent to 5,798 cars - a new sales record - and by 34.3 per cent for the first six months. Also, the Volvo XC60 model had its best sales month ever with 10,961 sold cars. For the first half of 2013, global sales amounted to 209,118 cars, down 5.5 per cent versus last year. The United States became Volvo Cars’ number one market in June with 6,678 retail sold cars, where the Volvo S60 and XC60 models represented the majority of sales. Both France and Spain gained sales in June while Europe as a whole is still down versus 2012. Japan is a growth market for Volvo with a 16.3 per cent increase in June driven by demand for the V-line cars with the Volvo V40 being the most sold model. Japan is up 11.3 per cent for the first half of 2013.
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