CARS GLOBALMAG February 2014

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digital monthly magazine

DAYTONA 24 H

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16 February 2014

! !! s le b u o d G A M L A B CARS GLO

. .. g in m o c is G A M L A B RACE GLO and from March , G A M L A B O L G S R A C will join ! g in c a r t u o b a ll a u o y g tellin Save the date and ! s e u s is h rc a M r u o s don’t mis

& RACE GM ! e n o in s e in z a g a m o Tw

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CONTENTS

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16

February 2014

6

46

26 6 26

FRONT PAGE DAKAR: sand, sweat & tears

AUTONEWS Autonews Detroit Autonews February

: VIDEO

62

46

FOCUS

62

MISS OF THE MONTH

Jaguar F – TYPE Coupé

Volvo Concept XC Coupé

: VIDEO

digital monthly magazine

90

108 74

100 74

RACING

88

AUTOSPORT MIX

90

GREEN SIDE

Daytona 24 Hours

Skoda: prepare for the future

2014 Fiat 500e

104

100

CLASSIC

104

GLOBAL NEWS

Renault Espace

A touch of class Ferrari telemetry

CGM

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FRONT PAGE

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Dakar 2014

SAND, SWEAT & TEARS Probably the hardest Dakar edition since the raid moved to South America. The following are, in our opinion, some of the best shots of 2014 Dakar, frames of a great adventure

NASSER AL-ATTIYAH / LUCAS CRUZ (Mini) Photo: FREDERIC LE FLOCH / DPPI

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DAKAR 2014

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STEPHANE PETERHANSEL / JEAN PAUL COTTRET (Mini) Photo: FREDERIC LE FLOCH / DPPI

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DAKAR 2014

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GERARD DE ROOY / TOM COLSOUL / DAREK RODEWALD (Iveco) Photo: DPPI Media

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DAKAR 2014

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CARLOS SAINZ / TIMO GOTTSCHALK (SMG Buggy) Photo: DPPI Media

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DAKAR 2014

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ROBBY GORDON - KELLON WALCH (HST Gordini) Photo: ERIC VARGIOLU / DPPI

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DAKAR 2014

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ORLANDO TERRANOVA /PAULO FIUZA (Mini) Photo: DPPI

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DAKAR 2014

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GINEAL DE VILLIERS / DIRK VON ZITZEWITZ (Toyota) Photo: FREDERIC LE FLOCH / DPPI

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DAKAR 2014

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KRZYSZTOF HOLOWCZYC / KONSTANTIN ZHILTSOV (Mini) Photo: DPPI Media

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DAKAR 2014

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NANI ROMA - MICHEL PERIN (Mini)

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DAKAR 2014

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the TOP 10 Pos N° Grp Pilotes

Riders

Time

Diff. Leader

1 304 ROMA NANI (ESP)/PÉRIN MICHEL (FRA)

MINI ALL4 RACING

50h44m58s

-

2 300 PETERHANSEL STÉPHANE (FRA)/COTTRET JEAN PAUL (FRA)

MINI ALL4 RACING

50h50m36s

+05m38s

3 301 AL-ATTIYAH NASSER (QAT)/CRUZ LUCAS (ESP)

MINI ALL4RACING

51h41m50s

+56m52s

4 302 DE VILLIERS GINIEL (ZAF)/VON ZITZEWITZ DIRK (DEU)

TOYOTA HILUX

52h04m05s +01h19m07s

5 307 TERRANOVA ORLANDO (ARG)/FIUZA PAULO (PRT)

MINI ALL4 RACING

52h12m42s +01h27m44s

6 309 HOLOWCZYC KRZYSZTOF (POL)/ZHILTSOV KONSTANTIN (RUS)

MINI ALL4 RACING

54h40m40s +03h55m42s

7 328 DABROWSKI MAREK (POL)/CZACHOR JACEK (POL)

TOYOTA HILUX

56h19m23s +05h34m25s

8 315 LAVIEILLE CHRISTIAN (FRA)/GARCIN JEAN-PIERRE (FRA)

HAVAL H8

56h20m48s +05h35m50s

9 332 KACZMARSKI MARTIN (POL)/PALMEIRO FILIPE (PRT)

MINI ALL4 RACING

57h43m10s +06h58m12s

10 314 VASILYEV VLADIMIR (RUS)/YEVTYEKHOV VITALIY (UKR)

MINI ALL4 RACING

57h44m32s +06h59m34s

Stage 11 - ORLANDO TERRANOVA /PAULO FIUZA (Mini) Photo: ERIC VARGIOLU / DPPI

CGM

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AUTO NEWS February

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AUDI Allroad shooting brake

The

two-door car is a crossover and so it is not limited to paved roads.

Its high level of functionality makes it ideal for recreational sports. Its hybrid drive, which is as powerful as it is efficient, makes a new form of quattro drive possible – the e-tron quattro.

With a wheelbase of 2.51 meters (8.23 ft), the show car − painted in Ice Blue − is 4.20 meters (13.78 ft) long, 1.85 meters (6.07 ft) wide and 1.41 meters (4.63 ft) tall.

The Audi allroad shooting brake represents

the first time that Audi has combined the allroad and e-tron form languages. The plug-in hybrid drive delivers impressive key performance data with 300 kW (408 hp) of system power and a system torque of 650 Nm (479.42 lb-ft). The 2.0 TFSI in the Audi allroad shooting brake outputs 215 kW (292 hp) of power and generates 380 Nm (280.27 lb-ft) of torque. The 2.0 TFSI operates together with a disc-shaped electric motor via a decoupling clutch; the electric motor outputs 40 kW of power and 270 Nm (199.14 lb-ft) of torque. It is integrated in the six-speed e-S tronic. A second electric motor, which is separate from this drive unit, is mounted to the rear axle. It supplies propulsive power at low and moderate vehicle speeds with its maximum power of 85 kW and 270 Nm (199.14 lb-ft) of torque.

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AUTO NEWS February

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ACURA TLX Prototype

Acura

unveiled the 2015 TLX Prototype showcasing the design and performance direction for the all-new 2015 TLX performance-luxury sedan launching mid-year.

The 2015 TLX’s advanced new powertrains will deliver highly responsive, refined and efficient power delivery. An all-new 2.4-liter 16-valve inline 4-cylinder engine employs

direct-injection and Acura’s i-VTEC valvetrain, and is significantly lighter than previous Acura engines of similar configuration and displacement. The new engine is mated to an all-new 8-speed dual clutch transmission (DCT) with torque converter.

For even greater power and performance, there is a 3.5-liter SOHC V-6. The 3.5-liter V-6 is mated to a new 9-speed automatic transmission with closely spaced gear ratios and a wide overall ratio range to further extend engine performance and fuel efficiency.

Two-wheel-drive models with either the 2.4or 3.5-liter powerplant will utilize the next generation of Acura Precision All-Wheel Steer technology with independent left and right rear wheel toe control.

The TLX SH-AWD, available exclusively with the 3.5-liter V6 engine and 9-speed transmission, employs a new generation of Acura’s signature Super-Handling All Wheel Drive technology that is 25 percent lighter and incorporates new torque-vectoring control logic.

BMW M3 Sedan M4 Coupé

BMW

M is beginning the year with the world premiere of the new BMW M3 Sedan and the new BMW M4 Coupé.

Compared with their predecessors, these models deliver superior performance with a newly developed high-revving, straight six-cylinder engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology delivering 317 kW/431 hp.

The suspension and drivetrain of each M automobile are precision tuned to harmonize with the performance characteristics of the engine. Optimized weight also enhances the overall performance characteristics of these vehicles. Lighter weight is achieved with a one-piece driveshaft made of carbon-fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP), which reduces the rotating mass for better gas pedal response.

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AUTO NEWS February

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CHEVROLET Corvette Z06

Chevrolet

introduced the most track-capable Corvette in the brand’s history – the 2015 Corvette Z06. It stretches the performance envelope for Corvette with unprecedented levels of aerodynamic downforce, at least 625 horsepower from an all-new supercharged engine, and an all-new, high-performance

eight-speed automatic transmission – all building on the advanced driver technologies introduced on the Corvette Stingray.

It is the first to offer a supercharged engine, an automatic transmission and, thanks to a stronger aluminum frame, a removable roof panel. The new, supercharged 6.2L engine is expected to deliver at least 625 horsepower (466 kW), and can be matched with either a seven-speed manual or an all-new, high-performance eight-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters for manual control.

The aluminum frame carries over from the

Corvette Stingray and will be used essentially unchanged for the Corvette Racing C7.R. A track-focused Z07 Performance Package adds unique components for true aerodynamic downforce, Michelin Pilot Super Sport Cup tires for enhanced grip, and Brembo carbon ceramic-matrix brake rotors that improve braking performance and contribute to greater handling through reduced unsprung weight. Although development testing is ongoing, the Z07 package has already recorded some of the fastest lap times ever for a Corvette, surpassing even the ZR1.

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AUTO NEWS February

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CADILLAC ATS Coupe

Cadillac

’s first-ever compact luxury Coupe goes on sale mid-year, offering drivers the choice of rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, and the power from a 2.0L turbocharged fourcylinder or a 3.6L six-cylinder. In all combinations, ATS Coupe takes advantage of its lightweight and strong structure to deliver high performance driving and efficiency, with a segment-leading power-to-weight ratio.

The 2.0L Turbo engine is upgraded from the current ATS sport sedan to deliver nearly 14

percent more torque, taking it to 295 lb-ft (400 Nm). Greater torque means greater pulling power, for a greater feeling of responsiveness at low speeds, and helps the ATS Coupe achieve an estimated 0-60 mph time of 5.6 seconds.

The engine lineup includes a standard 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder and available 3.6L V-6. The 2.0L Turbo is rated at 272 horsepower (203 kW) and 295 lb-ft of torque (400 Nm).

The 3.6L V-6 is rated at 321 horsepower (239 kW) and 275 lb-ft of torque (373 Nm).

CHRYSLER 200

The

2015 Chrysler 200 debuts the exterior design featuring the new “face” of the Chrysler brand. With the choice of two engines, an innovative all-wheel-drive system, available sport mode and paddle shifters for an engaged driving experience, and estimated highway fuel economy of 35

miles per gallon (mpg), the all-new Chrysler 200 makes a real statement.

The grille and headlamps are integrated for the first time and the updated Chrysler badge has an emphasis on the wing, which is more defined. The signature light pipe or available full-LED daytime running lamps (DRL), LED fog lamps and standard LED taillamps give the all-new Chrysler 200 a distinctive, recognizable look. A segment-first standard nine-speed automatic transmission and world-class engines, including the 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine with 295 horsepower, power the new Chrysler 200.

The new Tigershark 2.4-liter MultiAir2 fourcylinder engine produces 184 horsepower, 173 lb.-ft. of torque and delivers excellent estimated fuel economy of 35 mpg highway.

The 2015 Chrysler 200 is available in four different models in the United States and will arrive in dealer showrooms in the second quarter of 2014. The starting U.S. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price is $21,700 (excluding $995 destination).

FORD F-150

In

designing the backbone of the F-150, Ford engineers improved the truck’s signature fully boxed ladder frame. Highstrength, military-grade, aluminum alloys – already used in aerospace, commercial transportation, energy and many other rugged industries – are used throughout the F-150 body for the first time, improving resistance and also saving weight. Overall, up to 700 pounds of weight have been saved, helping the F-150 tow more, haul more, accelerate quicker and stop shorter, and contributing to efficiency.

A range of four engines provides more power to meet almost any customer need.

A new 2.7-liter EcoBoost with standard Auto Start-Stop and a 3.5-liter V6 engine with twin independent variable camshaft timing join the proven 3.5-liter EcoBoost and 5.0-liter TiVCT V8.

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AUTO NEWS February

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GMC Canyon

HYUNDAI Genesis

GMC

expects Canyon to be the most powerful and efficient truck in the segment, allowing owners to haul and tow more while being efficient. A 2.5L I-4 is standard, and a 3.6L V-6 is available.

The 2.5L four is estimated at 193 horsepower (146 kW) and 184 lb-ft of torque (253 Nm), with approximately 90 percent of the peak torque available from 2,000 rpm to 6,200 rpm. The 3.6L engine is estimated at 302 horsepower (224 kW) and 270 lb-ft of torque (366 Nm). SAE certification of the power ratings is pending.

AutoTrac automatic four-wheel drive is also a segment-first feature, which employs an electronically controlled transfer case that allows the driver to shift from 2WD to 4WD. The driver can select four modes, 2WD, Auto, 4WD HI, or 4WD Lo. By selecting ‘Auto’ mode, the transfer case will operate in 2WD and will automatically apply traction to the front wheels (4WD) when the vehicle senses wheel slippage.

The

2015 Hyundai Genesis receives a redesigned platform to accommodate its new available HTRAC AWD system, using no shared components with its previous generation. The platform employs even more advanced high-strength steel, now over 50 percent of total platform composition.

The 2015 Hyundai Genesis is offered with a choice of rear-wheel-drive or new HTRAC AllWheel-Drive (AWD) configurations. The heart of the Genesis 5.0 is the 5.0-liter Tau V8 engine producing 420 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 383 lb. ft. of torque at 5,000 rpm.

The Genesis 3.8-liter direct-injected Lambda engine has also been further optimized to deliver a flatter overall torque curve at low rpm for enhanced driveability. The Genesis 3.8-liter Lambda engine utilizes direct-injection and produces 311 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 293 lb.-ft. of torque at 5,000 rpm.

All 3.8-liter engines are coupled to the same eight-speed automatic transmission design as the Genesis 5.0.

INFINITI Q-50 Eau Rouge Infiniti Q50 Eau Rouge is a concept car that expresses Infiniti’s design vision of a high-performance Q50 premium sports sedan. The Q50 Eau Rouge embodies the arresting design features of the Q50 premium sports sedan - infused with the enticing spirit of Formula One. It was born out of competition at the very pinnacle of motorsport, mirroring components from the successful RB9 race car.

The

Further underlining the sporty character of the design study, the interior was designed to offer command and comfort. Further precision control is afforded by a high-grip sports steering wheel and Formula Onestyle paddle-shifters.

Red-infused carbon fiber detailing to the doors and center console complement the exterior style, and dark-chrome again replaces silver-chrome in the red cockpit.

LEXUS RC F

Lexus

revealed its most powerful V8 engine in the all-new 2015 RC F performance coupe at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. The F performance model, based on the RC coupe, gets its powerful roar from more than 450 horsepower and more than 383 lb.ft. torque.

RC F makes use of a Torque Vectoring Differential (TVD) to ensure handling and performance. The power transfers through a newly calibrated eight-speed Sports Direct Shift (SPDS) transmission with paddle shifters.

The RC F has an all-new 5.0-liter 32-valve V8 engine that will provide increased maximum power at higher engine rpm than previously possible.

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AUTO NEWS February

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KIA GT4 Stinger

Kia’

s eye-catching design language moves in a bold new direction with the introduction of the GT4 Stinger.

Beneath the low wedge of the GT4 Stinger’s hood resides a tuned version of Kia’s proven 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline direct injected (T-GDI) four-cylinder engine putting out an impressive 315 horsepower.

That power is put to the ground via a close-ratio six-speed manual transmission driving the rear wheels, which are wrap-

ped in 275/35R-20 Pirelli P-Zero performance tires. Staggered 235/35R-20 Pirelli P-Zeros nestle beneath the front fenders, ensuring loads of corner-carving grip. Custom 20-inch aluminum center-lock wheels feature carbon fiber inserts for strength and weight reduction. Tucked inside the massive wheels are Brembo Gran Turismo two-piece 15-inch cross-drilled rotors and four-piston calipers with plenty of stopping power.

MERCEDES-BENZ C-Class S-Class Coupe

The

C-Class has grown to take account of people’s increasing average height. With a 3 inch increase in the wheelbase (112 inches) compared with the previous model, the vehicle is 3.7 inches longer (184 inches) and 1.6 inches wider (71 inches). The additional space benefits first and foremost the rear passengers, who now travel in even greater comfort. The new C-Class also increases its trunk capacity to 17 cubic feet. Smooth automatic gear shifting is provided by the 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic

transmission, which has undergone further development.

With the Concept S-Class Coupe Mercedes provides a clear vision of the next model generation. With its gorgeous appearance and self-assured style it embodies the design philosophy of sensual clarity. The technology: intelligent assistance systems and a seeing suspension. The Concept S-Class Coupe is powered by a V8 Biturbo engine. This engine produces 449Â hp from a displacement of 4,663 cc. The peak torque is 516 lb-ft.

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AUTO NEWS February

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NISSAN Sport Sedan Concept Sentra NISMO Concept

The

Sport Sedan Concept, a design study with a particular emphasis on next-generation design and sporty style, was created to embody the essence of a true sports sedan – that rare execution of 4-door sedan with the aura of a real sports car. It previews a future production vehicle intended for owners with a passion for cutting-edge design and driving dynamics. The front-wheel drive Sport Sedan Concept is powered by a 300-plus horsepower 3.5-liter V6 engine backed by a sport-tuned Xtronic CVT and features an innovative suspension layout with performance dampers.

The Sentra NISMO Concept injects increased performance and design tuner elements into the mix. Among the Sentra NISMO Concept’s many departures from a production 2014 Sentra are its race-inspired exterior with enhanced aerodynamic performance, NISMOtuned suspension, steering and transmission and engaging motorsports-style cockpit.

And under the hood, the concept adapts a 1.8-liter direct injection turbocharged engine producing more than 240 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque, mated to a 6-speed manual transmission.

PORSCHE 911 Targa

At

the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Porsche introduced two new models to the 911 range: the 911 Targa 4 and 911 Targa 4S. These models are the first to combine the classic Targa concept with cutting edge, innovative roof technology.

Just like the legendary original 911 Targa of 1965, the new models feature the distinctive Targa roof bar, a movable front roof section, and a wraparound rear window. But unlike the classic 911 Targa, the roof segment can be opened and closed at the push of a button. The fully automatic roof system stows the Targa top behind the rear seats.

Both 911 Targa models exclusively come in AWD version, featuring the wider rear track and body, and the same Porsche Traction Management (PTM), found in all 911 all-wheel-drive models

The 911 Targa 4 is powered by a horizontally opposed 3.4-liter 6-cylinder engine with 350 hp. Equipped with the optional Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) and Sport Chrono package, the 911 Targa 4 accelerates from zero to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds and is capable of a top track speed of 174 mph (175 mph with the manual transmission). The 911 Targa 4S delivers 400 hp from its 3.8-liter horizontally opposed 6-cylinder engine, and accelerates from zero to 60 mph in 4.2 seconds when equipped with optional PDK and Sport Chrono package.

The 911 Targa 4S is capable of reaching a top track speed of 183 mph when equipped with a manual transmission and 182 mph with PDK. The 911 Targa 4 will cost around $101,000 while the 911 Targa 4S model will have a price of $116,000. Deliveries in the U.S. are scheduled to begin this summer.

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AUTO NEWS February

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SUBARU WRX STI

Powered

by the legendary 305-horsepower 2.5-liter turbocharged BOXER engine, the 2015 WRX STI debuts a new four-door wide-body design, built on a stiffer chassis for greater handling agility and precision.

New for the 2015 WRX STI, Active Torque Vectoring joins an arsenal of the model’s proven handling technologies that includes Multi-Mode Driver Controlled Center Differential (DCCD) Symmetrical AllWheel Drive, Multi-Mode Vehicle Dynamics Control, and a Brembo® Performance Bra-

ke System with Super Sport ABS. The 2015 WRX STI carries its bold personality inside, where new Alcantara seating surfaces accented by red and black leather bolsters and red stitching set the tone for the upgraded and roomier cabin.

It

TOYOTA FT-1 Concept

seems the virtual world continues to delight us with experiences not yet available in the real world. Beginning January 14, the stunning Toyota FT-1 concept will be available as a downloadable vehicle for PlayStation®3’s Gran Turismo 6. Race fans and the gaming community can experience FT-1 exclusively in GT6, where the FT-1 was created digitally to realistically demonstrate what a production FT-1 could achieve.

This exciting concept is a spiritual pacecar for Toyota’s future design direction. Penned by enthusiast designers at Toyota’s Calty Design Research facility in Newport Beach, California, the vibrant concept represents Toyota’s vision of the ultimate high-performance sports car. Its name is derived from Future Toyota (FT), and the number “1” as in ultimate.

VOLKSWAGEN Beetle Dune concept Passat BlueMotion Concept

The

Dune concept shows the potential for a new production version of the sportiest Beetle ever. The body was raised by two inches and the designers bolted a pair of skis to the roof to show the vehicle’s go-anywhere intentions. Its name, raised ground clearance, and all-terrain look hark back to the VW Bugs that conquered beaches and dunes in times past.

The Dune follows the production R-Line Beetle in its running gear. The 210-horsepower turbocharged TSI engine, together with a sixspeed DSG dual-clutch automatic transmission, will handle the trip to whatever destination you choose. And just like the R-Line, the Dune puts its power to the ground via the front wheels and a strut-type front and multilink rear suspension, with the XDS electronic differential lock providing further traction.

The Passat BlueMotion Concept is based on the current Passat that was developed specifically for North America. The BlueMotion label defines the version that has the best efficiency in the model lineup. In this case, the Passat BlueMotion Concept has a manufacturer estimated highway fuel economy of 42 mpg, best in class among non-hybrid, gasoline-engined mid-size sedans.

The Passat BlueMotion Concept features an all-new version of the Volkswagen 1.4-liter EA211 TSI engine with direct injection and turbocharging. On top, this Passat also offers Active Cylinder Management (ACT) technology, previously seen on the European Volkswagen Polo and Golf models. ACT deactivates the valvetrain on cylinders two and three for situations when the driver only applies light throttle pressure to maintain specific city speeds.

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y r a u r b e F AUTONEWS

SMART FORTWO EDITION CITYBEAM The latest smart fortwo special model that celebrates its premiere at the Brussels Motor Show on 10 January 2014 has been christened “edition citybeam”. The smart citybeam is an individual model from smart with a distinctive character at attractive prices. The most striking exterior features are the bodypanels, which are available in light blue, silver metal-

lic or matt anthracite depending on the market and customer preferences, the silver tridion safety cell and the 3-double-spoke alloy wheels with wide tyres (175/55 R 15 at the front and 195/50 R 15 at the rear) in a dynamic design.

The vehicle also boasts titaniumcoloured headlamps, LED daytime driving lights and the edition logo in the mirror triangles.

CES s Las Vega

Audi presented a fascinating technology concept car at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas. The Audi Sport quattro laserlight concept is reminiscent of the classic Sport quattro of 1983 while pointing towards the future – with the latest of the brand’s technologies in plug-in hybrid drives, user control and display interfaces and lighting technology.

In the dual headlights, a typical quattro feature, Audi is demonstrating the future of lighting technology by combining matrix LED and laser light technolo-

gies. Two low-profile trapezoidal elements are visible within the headlights – the outer one generates the low beam light using matrix LEDs and an aperture mask, while the inner element produces laser light for high-beam functionality. The powerful laser diodes are significantly smaller than LED diodes; they are only a few microns in diameter. Illuminating the road for a distance of nearly 500 meters (1,640 ft), the laser high-beam light has approximately twice the lighting range and three times the luminosity of LED high beam lights.

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AUTO NEWS February

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N HOUSShTO Auto ow New special-edition ‘Altitude’ models of the 2014 Cherokee, Grand Cherokee and Wrangler were introduced at the Houston Auto Show.

Featuring unique “blacked-out” exteriors with a distinct and aggressive flair, the vehicles arrive in Jeep showrooms in spring. Based on the Latitude model, the 2014 Jeep Cherokee Altitude is available in 4x2 or 4x4 configurations powered by either the 2.4-liter MultiAir 2 Tigershark I-4 engine with up to 31 mpg, or the 3.2-liter Pentastar V-6 engine, which delivers bestin-class 271 horsepower and towing capabilities of 4,500 lbs. Both engines are mated to the mid-size SUV segment-exclusive nine-speed automatic transmission. The limitededition 2014 Jeep Cherokee Altitude is available in four exterior colors: Brilliant Black Crystal Metallic Clear Coat, Bright White Clear Coat, Billet Silver Metallic Clear Coat and Granite Crystal Metallic Clear Coat. The 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee Altitude is based on the Laredo model and is available as a 4x2 or 4x4. The stan-

JEEP “ALTITUDE” MODELS dard 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine produces 290 horsepower and 260 lb.-ft. of torque, and is mated to an all-new eight-speed automatic transmission, delivering up to 25 miles per gallon highway. The 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee Altitude is available in Billet Silver, Bright White, Brilliant Black Metallic Coat, Deep Cherry, Granite Crystal and Maximum Steel. The U.S. MSRP for the 2014 Grand Cherokee is $35,290 for 4x2 models and $37,290 for 4x4 (plus $995 destination). Based on the Sahara model, the 2014 Jeep Wrangler Altitude is available in two-door and Unlimited four-door models. It is powered by a 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine producing 285 horsepower and 260 lb.-ft. of torque. The engine is mated to a standard six-speed manual or available five-speed automatic transmission. The 2014 Jeep Wrangler Altitude is available in Amp’d, Black, Granite Crystal and Hydro Blue. U.S. MSRP is $31,595 for Wrangler two-door models and $35,395 for Wrangler Unlimited models (plus $995 destination).

SEAT Leon CUPRA and ST 4Drive With up to 206 kW / 280 PS, the new CUPRA is not only the clear top model in the very successful Leon family, it is also the brand’s most powerful series-production car and the fastest. Against this, the new Leon CUPRA is pretty efficient. The average fuel consumption for both power variants is just 6.4 litres with DSG and 6.6 litres with the manual gearbox. This equates to CO2 figures of just 149 and 154 grams. And, compared with its predecessor, it means a reduction in emissions of 41 grams.

TATA NANO TWIST

Tata Motors announced the launch of the new Nano Twist, a new addition to the Nano range.

The new Electric Power Assisted Steering (EPAS) system compri-

CUPRA will be offered as a five-door and as the Leon SC CUPRA Sport CoupĂŠ with three doors.

The SEAT Leon ST 4Drive with allwheel drive comes to market with two TDI engines generating 77 kW / 105 PS and 110 kW / 150 PS. Besides powerful performance, these engines also demonstrate exceptional efficiency: the average fuel consumption is 4.5 and 4.8 litres per 100 kilometres. Market introduction will start with the 77 kW / 105 PS version in April 2014 and with the 110 kW / 150 PS version in summer. ses of a steering column-mounted brushless motor and an ECU (Electronic Control Unit), which helps the driver steer the Nano Twist with ease, regardless of the road conditions.

The Nano Twist is powered by a 624cc, multi-point fuel injected, water cooled, naturally aspirated, 2 cylinder gasoline engine with 2 valves per cylinder, mated to a 4-speed manual transmission. The engine produces 38PS power, 51 Nm torque. The Nano continues to remain as the most fuel efficient petrol car, as the Nano range offers a fuel efficiency of 25.4 kmpl, as certified by the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI).

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Jaguar F-TYPE R Coupé

e u r At

DRIVER’S CAR

It’s the most dynamically capable, performance-focused sports car that Jaguar has ever produced. Available in three versions (F-TYPE R, F-TYPE S and the F-TYPE) this coupé embodies the uncompromised design vision of the stunning Jaguar C-X16 concept sports coupé that debuted at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show

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JAGUAR F-TYPE R COUPÉ

The

(

F-TYPE Coupé visual message is defined by three key ‘heartlines’, that visual message beginning with the formidable grille. It is from the twin ‘shark gill’ openings that sit either side of the grille that the essential first heartline – which mirrors the design of the F-TYPE Convertible – flows and begins to take shape. Running up through the headlamp, and accentuated by the LED ‘J blade’ daylight running lamps, the line then arcs up over the front wheelarch before dropping elegantly as it runs through the door, washing out into the muscular rear haunch.

The Coupé’s second heartline, also shared with the Convertible, begins at the rear edge of the door, swelling outwards and upwards to create a visually strong wheelarch, emphasising the car’s rear-wheel drive layout, before dropping vertically through the tail lamp. The third heartline forms the Coupé’s dramatic, cabin-rearward, sweeping roof profile. Providing an unbroken silhouette, it highlights the visual drama of the tapered cabin nestled between the powerful rear haunches. The distinctive side window graphic, finished as standard in bright aluminium, accentuates both the compactness of the car and the roof profile.

“The F-TYPE Coupé provides its driver with a unique sports car experience. It combines seductive design with cutting-edge technology and performance which is truly breathtaking.

Engaging, precise, intuitive and alive – it is the definitive sports Coupé.” Phil Popham, Group Marketing Director, Jaguar Land Rover

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JAGUAR F-TYPE R COUPÉ

Jaguar’s

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expertise in aluminium vehicle architecture has been essential in enabling both the F-TYPE Coupé’s uncompromised design aesthetic, while delivering the fundamental dynamic attributes – essential to any sports car – of low mass and an extremely rigid body. Measuring 33,000 Nm/degree, the FTYPE Coupé is the most torsionally rigid production car Jaguar has ever built.

A fundamental requirement for excellent dynamic attributes, delivering that rigidity figure required some innovative engineering solutions in order to maximise strength without impacting on the design vision. Due to the lack of B-pillars, Jaguar’s engineers were presented with the challenge of keeping the design’s sleek, pillarless, low roofline – combined with the need to create the optimum amount of interior space – while still achieving

the necessary rigidity and strength targets.

The solution was a high-strength, hydro-formed aluminium alloy beam which runs from the front of the A-pillar through to the back of the D-pillar, through the door opening line and back to the rear quarter window.

The F-TYPE Coupé is available with either aluminium or panoramic glass roof panels that are bonded into the main roof structure – torsional rigidity is identical regardless of which roof is fitted. The F-TYPE Coupé’s dramatic body sides are single-piece aluminium pressings. These exceptionally deep-draw aluminium pressings have totally eliminated the requirement for joints in the panel surface. The body side panel is fabricated from high-strength and formable AC600 aluminium, which has also been used for structural reinforcement – both engineering firsts for Jaguar.

In order to achieve the required aesthetic at the rear of the car, the F-TYPE Coupé features a hidden rear spoiler that sits within the tapered shut-line of the tailgate, and rises at speed in order to balance front and rear lift.

The spoiler automatically rises at 70mph and lowers when the speed drops below 50mph, reducing lift by up to 120kg.

The width of the tail is emphasised by the slim, full-LED lamps that wrap all the way around the wings almost to the trailing edge of the rear wheelarches. These lamps feature hidden-until-lit technology, appearing solid until one of their functions is activated. The FTYPE Coupé also features a ‘ribbon of light’ LED high-mounted stop light, which is hidden at the top of the beautifully engineered tailgate. The tailgate, available with powered open/close functionality, is made from composite materials, the boot-volume itself being up to 407-litres.

“With F-TYPE Coupé, the Jaguar engineering team has exceeded our considerable target of building a car that delivers even more driver reward than the acclaimed F-TYPE Convertible. Engineering an exceptionally rigid allaluminium Coupé body structure was the key to achieving this, as it’s the fundamental basis for enhanced dynamic attributes. The result is that the F-TYPE Coupé is the most dynamically capable and involving Jaguar we’ve ever built.” Ian Hoban, Vehicle Line Director, Jaguar

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JAGUAR F-TYPE R COUPÉ

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“Creating a sports Coupé is the purest of design tasks, and also the most challenging; get it right and aesthetically the result will be as dynamic as the car should be rewarding to drive. In F-TYPE Coupé, I believe we’ve got it right. The purity of the C-X16 concept has been retained without compromise; the F-TYPE Coupé’s long bonnet, low roofline and tapering cabin inspire me every time I see it.” Ian Callum, Director of Design, Jaguar

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JAGUAR F-TYPE R COUPÉ

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F-TYPE R COUPÉ The F-TYPE R Coupé represents the pinnacle of the F-TYPE range. Powered by Jaguar’s 5.0-litre supercharged petrol V8 all-aluminium engine in 550PS and 680Nm form, the F-TYPE R Coupé achieves headline figures of 0-60mph in 4.0-seconds with an electronically limited top speed of 186mph, 50-75mph taking a mere 2.4-seconds. CO2 emissions are 259g/km.

The R Coupé’s supercharged engine delivers not only exhilarating performance but also tremendous efficiency thanks to the technologies incorporated into it, including sprayguided direct injection (SGDI) and dual independent variable cam timing (DIVCT). The high-pressure die-cast lightweight aluminium block is stiffened with cast-iron liners and cross-bolted main bearing caps, providing refinement to match its power. The four-valve cylinder heads are constructed from highgrade, bespoke aluminium, between them sitting the Roots-type twin vortex supercharger fed by two intercoolers, which feature their own water-cooling circuit to reduce the temperature of the pressurised air, thereby optimising power and efficiency.

The F-TYPE R Coupé is fitted with Jaguar’s Adaptive Dynamics system that actively controls vertical body movement, roll and pitch rates. The system continuously monitors driver inputs and the attitude of the car on the road, adjusting damper rates accordingly up to 500 times a second to optimise stability. For the F-TYPE R, the Adaptive Dynamics controlling software has a bespoke tune, working in tandem with revised spring rates all-round to deliver consistent, progressive and exploitable handling.

Spring rates are increased by 4.3% at the

front and 3.7% at the rear (compared to FTYPE V8 S Convertible).

Engaging Dynamic mode delivers an even more focused driving experience thanks to enhanced body control through firmer damping rates, increased steering weighting, faster gear changes and sharper throttle response. In the F-TYPE R Coupé, Dynamic mode is configurable as standard via the central 8in touchscreen, allowing the driver to select and save settings according to their preference. In addition to the fundamental suspension tune changes, the F-TYPE R Coupé features a new second-generation Electronic Active Differential which, for the first time on a Jaguar, works in conjunction with Torque Vectoring by braking. Together, the two systems ensure agility at all speeds and exploitable on-the-limit handling.

The F-TYPE R Coupé’s Electronic Active Differential (EAD) builds on the progressive handling advantages of a mechanical limited-slip differential by intelligently controlling the amount of driveline torque fed to each wheel. The EAD utilises an electric motor which operates a multiplate clutch; by rapidly and continuously analysing a range of electronic inputs it is able to immediately vary torque transfer to each driven wheel to maximise traction in any condition.

Working in parallel with the Torque Vectoring by braking system, the controller is capable of reacting to the ECU’s torque request – ranging from open to full locking torque – in under 200 milliseconds.

Torque Vectoring by braking – a standard feature on F-TYPE R Coupé – applies finely metered braking torque individually to the inner wheels as necessary, helping to turn the car into corners more precisely.

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JAGUAR F-TYPE R COUPÉ

Using

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the F-TYPE R Coupé’s array of electronic sensors, the Torque Vectoring system determines when corner entry speed may induce understeer. It then calculates the level of brake force needed to correct the car’s direction and, via the ABS system, applies that precise braking force to individual inner wheels as necessary.

The F-TYPE R’s EAD and Torque Vectoring by braking systems – which work together with the car’s Dynamic Stability Control system – complement each other to optimise traction, cornering ability and, most importantly, to maximise steering feel and agility.

Torque Vectoring by braking works to finetune trajectory around a corner, and as the car is pushed further to its limits, there is a natural, seamless transition to EAD. The F-TYPE R Coupé uses Jaguar’s Super Performance braking system as standard. This system features 380mm front and 376mm rear discs – with red or black painted calipers. Brake cooling is optimised via under-body channelling of air, the air-flow being derived through the use of Computational Fluid Dynamics analysis.

The R Coupé is also available with optional Carbon Ceramic Matrix (CCM) brakes which offer consistent performance and excellent fade resistance even during extreme performance driving conditions, while retaining the precise pedal feel of the standard system and extending disc life in everyday driving use. CCM brakes are now also optional on F-TYPE S and V8 S Convertible models.

The F-TYPE’s eight-speed ‘Quickshift’ transmission has been recalibrated to make the best use of the F-TYPE R Coupé’s 550PS engine. Its eight, closely-stacked, sporting

ratios help to fully exploit the engine’s rev range and ensure that it remains within its optimal power band with every gearchange. Manual control is available to the driver at any time, using either the steering wheelmounted paddles or the central SportShift selector.

The F-TYPE R Coupé’s switchable Active Sports Exhaust system – with its signature quad, outboard-mounted tailpipes – takes the aural excitement delivered by the 550PS engine to new levels. It offers an authentic, rich sound, developing to a howling crescendo as the upper limits of the rev range are reached. The system uses electronically controlled bypass valves in the rear section of the exhaust which are mapped to open according to a range of parameters, effectively altering the exhaust gas routing into a free-flowing straight-through arrangement to both reduce back pressure and enhance sound quality. Selecting Dynamic mode also opens the bypass valves, an optional override button enabling further driver control of the system.

The F-TYPE R Coupé’s aerodynamic bodywork – gloss black front vanes beneath the shark gills and flat side sill extensions – aid its stability at the very high speeds of which it is capable. As standard the R Coupé’s window finishes are highlighted in bright anodised aluminium along the frames of the side glass, with the grille surround and side air vents in bright chrome, while the optional Black Pack adds gloss black window finishers, gloss black side power air vents and a gloss black grille surround. The front splitter, side power vents, door mirrors casings, bonnet power vents and engine cover are also available in carbon fibre.

Aluminium forms a significant part of Jaguar’s commitment to sustainability with up to half the content of the body coming from recycled metal.

In addition, the F-TYPE Coupé’s structure is exclusively riveted and bonded – this manufacturing process emits up to 80% less CO2 compared to that from welding a comparable steel structure. Jaguar is also rolling out its closed-loop aluminium recycling system to its suppliers, ensuring all offcuts of metal from the manufacturing process are reused.

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JAGUAR F-TYPE R COUPÉ

( 20in ‘Gyrodyne’ wheels in silver finish are standard on the F-TYPE R Coupé, while a dark grey and diamond-turned version is optional. As on any F-TYPE specified with 20in wheels, the F-TYPE R Coupé is available with optional ultra-high performance tyres which, with a unique tread pattern, offer additional steering precision, and increased levels of grip for the enthusiast driver.

INTERIOR Like all models in the F-TYPE range, the R Coupé’s driver-focused cabin clearly conveys the car’s pedigree and sporting prowess, through a combination of taut, technical styling, involving interfaces and premium materials and textures.

The F-TYPE R Coupé’s Performance seats have inflatable side-bolstering and prominent wings for support during high-speed cornering. The seats are finished in premium leather, with the ‘R’ logo embossed on the headrest. A pure ‘Jet’ interior colourway is offered with three options of contrast stitching – Ivory, Red or Firesand – on the instrument panels, door casings, grab-handle highlight and cubby box. There are a further three sporting options on the Jet seats – Ivory, Camel or Red duo-tones, each with similarlymatched contrast stitching.

The F-TYPE R Coupé’s premium trim also includes leather on the instrument panel and binnacle, armrests, door inserts and the centre console. Leather or Suedecloth headlinings are optional. The driver-focused cockpit conveys its sporting intentions with a small-diameter, flat-bottomed steering wheel wrapped in Jet leather with the R logo. A round wheel is a no-cost option.

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JAGUAR F-TYPE R COUPÉ

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F-TYPE COUPÉ AND S COUPÉ The Jaguar F-TYPE Coupé is also available in two V6-supercharged powered petrol variants, both driving the rear wheels through eight-speed Quickshift transmissions; the FTYPE Coupé and the F-TYPE S Coupé. Featuring the same rigid yet lightweight Coupé bodyshell as the F-TYPE R, and combined with a finely tuned focus on ride, handling and performance, both the F-TYPE Coupé and F-TYPE S Coupé are true driver’s cars.

The F-TYPE Coupé is powered by Jaguar’s 3.0-litre V6 supercharged petrol engine in 340PS/450Nm tune, and is capable of 0-60mph in 5.1-seconds with an electronically limited top speed of 161 mph. Standard features include Dynamic Mode, sports exhaust – both V6 models use twin, centrally-mounted tailpipes – sports suspension and Jaguar’s Performance Braking system

(354/325mm discs front/rear) with silver calipers. The F-TYPE Coupé is fitted as standard with 18in Vela wheels, partial leather/Suedecloth sports seats and a leather steering wheel with black paddles.

The F-TYPE S Coupé, powered by Jaguar’s 3.0-litre V6 supercharged petrol engine in 380PS/460Nm tune is capable of 0-60mph in 4.8-seconds on its way to an electronically limited top speed of 171 mph. It features Dynamic Mode, Dynamic Launch, Active Sports exhaust, sports suspension with Adaptive Dynamics, Jaguar’s High Performance Braking system (380/325mm discs front/rear) with black calipers and a mechanical limited-slip differential. Both Jaguar’s Super Performance and CCM braking systems are optional. The F-TYPE S Coupé is fitted as standard with 19in Propeller wheels, partial leather/Suedecloth sports seats and a leather steering wheel with Ignis paddles.

All F-TYPE models – Coupé and Convertible – are equipped with Jaguar’s Intelligent Stop/ Start system which, when conditions allow, automatically shuts down the engine when the car comes to a halt and the driver’s foot is on the brake pedal. When the brake is released, the system can restart the engine in less time than it takes for the driver’s foot to move from the brake to the accelerator. The system offers fuel economy and emissions benefits of up to 5 per cent.

The F-TYPE Coupé model range is available with three audio systems, two of which come from globally recognised British experts Meridian. These offer either 10 or 12 loudspeakers with outputs of 380W and 770W respectively. The Meridian systems benefit from the company’s huge experience in digital signal processing to create audio reproduction that is second to none.

JAGUAR F-TYPE R COUPÉ TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Engine Capacity (cc) Cylinders Valves per cylinder Compression ratio Bore/stroke (mm) Bore/stroke (inches) Transmission PERFORMANCE 0-60mph (sec) 0-100km/h (sec) 50-75mph (sec) 80-120km/h (sec) Top speed - electronically limited (mph) Top speed - electronically limited (km/h) Power (PS@rpm) Power (kW@rpm) Torque (lb ft@rpm) Torque (Nm@rpm) Torque to weight ratio (Nm/tonne) Combined economy (EU mpg) Combined economy (l/100km) CO2 emissions (g/km) DIMENSIONS Length (mm) Length (inches) Width excl. mirrors (mm) Width excl. mirrors (inches) Height (mm) Height (inches) Wheelbase (mm) Wheelbase (inches) Front track (mm) Front track (inches) Rear track (mm) Rear track (inches) Fuel tank capacity (litres) Fuel tank capacity (gallons) Weight from (kg)

F-TYPE COUPÉ F-TYPE S COUPÉ F-TYPE R COUPÉ 2995 2995 5000 6 6 8 4 4 4 10.5:1 10.5:1 9.5:1 84.5/89.0 84.5/89.0 92.5/93.0 3.33/3.50 3.33/3.50 3.64/3.66 Eight-speed ‘Quickshift’ Eight-speed ‘Quickshift’ Eight-speed ‘Quickshift’

5.1 5.3 3.3 3.3 161 260 340@6500 250@6500 332@3500-5000 450@3500-5000 285 32.1 8.8 205

4.8 4.9 3.1 3.1 171 275 380@6500 280@6500 339@3500-5000 460@3500-5000 289 31.0 9.1 213

4.0 4.2 2.4 2.4 186 300 550@6500 404.5@6500 501.5@3500 680@3500 412 25.5 11.1 259

4470 176 1923 75.7 1309 51.5 2622 103.2 1597 62.8 1649 64.9 72 15.8 1577

4470 176 1923 75.7 1309 51.5 2622 103.2 1597 62.8 1649 64.9 72 15.8 1594

4470 176 1923 75.7 1321 52.0 2622 103.2 1586 62.4 1628 64.1 72 15.8 1650

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MISS OF THE MONTH

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The Volvo Concept XC Coupé

SOPHISTICATED

CAPABILITY

The new Volvo Concept XC CoupĂŠ.

Inspired by the design of modern sports equipment it is a sophisticated and capable car for people with an active lifestyle.

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THE VOLVO CONCEPT XC COUPÉ

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“Concept XC

Coupé shows how clever engineering makes it possible for us to reinforce our world-leading safety without compromising design, size or weight.

Thanks to the extensive use of high-strength boron steel and structures with new, ingenious decoupling, we can make SPA cars more compact and safer at the same time” says Thomas Ingenlath, Volvo Senior Vice President Design The two-door, four-seater Volvo Concept XC Coupé has a strong connection with its sibling, the Volvo Concept Coupé. However, the larger 21-inch wheels, the more accentuated wheel-arches and the taller roofline all contribute to a more robust impression and a fuller, capable look.

The extended distance between the dashboard and the front axle is still a very powerful visual element. The capable stance is emphasised by details such as the new bonnet and a beltline that spans an elegant bow along the length of the car.

High-tech sport gear The connection with modern, high-tech sports gear is highly present in the concept car. Among the sources of inspiration for the design team is the Swedish company POC, which develops high-tech protective gear for gravity sports athletes.

“Several orange details and exterior graphics in combination with bold use of matte rubber mouldings, which cover the rear end of the car, add to the highly functional expression of the design” says Thomas Ingenlath.

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THE VOLVO CONCEPT XC COUPÉ

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BUILDING ON A PROUD XC HERITAGE Volvo Cars paved the way for a completely new segment by introducing the V70 Cross Country in 1997. The range has been continuously developed and extended since then. Presently, it spans from the Volvo V40 Cross Country, via the XC60 and XC70, to the XC90.

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THE VOLVO CONCEPT XC COUPÉ

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To strike the right balance between aesthetics and functionality, the design team has also given traditional SUV elements, such as side mouldings and skid plates, a modern interpretation. They are more integrated into the sleek design, flush with the surrounding body areas.

T-shaped DRL lights Just like Volvo Concept Coupé, the face of the Volvo Concept XC Coupé is characterised by a new topography on the bonnet and the ‘floating’ grille, flanked by headlights featuring new T-shaped DRL light guides. The rear light signature is also a distinctive element in the new design direction of Volvo Cars.

“We add emotional value to the Volvo brand with the calm, confident beauty that is the hallmark of Scandinavian design” says Thomas Ingenlath.

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THE VOLVO CONCEPT XC COUPÉ

“With the Volvo Concept XC Coupé, we take this unique blend of capable ruggedness and expressive elegance up to a new, sportier attitude - says Thomas Ingenlath Senior Vice President Design - the Volvo Concept XC Coupé is another demonstration of what our new architecture is capable of. It brings us a bit closer to the all-new XC90.

But it goes without saying that a three-row, sevenseater will have a larger and fuller look than this four-seater. Volvo Concept XC Coupé is more of a Cross Country version of a sleek sports wagon.”

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THE VOLVO CONCEPT XC COUPÉ

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The Concept XC Coupe was awarded the title “Best Concept Car” at the 2014 EyesON Design Awards at the 2014 Detroit Motor Show, while Volvo’s latest concept vehicle also won the award for “Best use of Color, Graphics and Materials”.

CGM

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RACING

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24 HOURS INTO

A NEW ERA

by Niccolò Gargiulo

The 2014 Rolex 24 at Daytona marked the start of the new United SportsCar Championship, product of the merger between Grand-Am and the American Le Mans Series, and possibly the beginning of a new golden age in sports car racing.

Photo: Rolex / Stephan Cooper

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DAYTONA 24 HOURS

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The

24 hours classic, raced on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean, was certainly a good piece of advertisement for the new championship: 67 cars on the grid and over 200 drivers competing in four different classes ‌ and it was up to the last lap! The No. 5 Action Express Racing Corvette DP driven

by Joao Barbosa, Christian Fittipaldi and Sebastien Bourdais prevailed by just 1.4 seconds over the No. 10 Wayne Tayolr Racing Corvette of Max Angelelli, Wayne, Ricky and Jordan Taylor.

The battle for the GTD trophy was even more exciting when the No. 555 Ferrari 458 Italia driven by Alessandro Pier Guidi (together with Scott Tucker, Jeff Segal, Townsend Bell and Bill Sweedle) was confronted in the infield of the last lap by the No. 45 Audi R8 LMS of Markus Winkelhock (with teammates Spencer Pumpelly and Tim Pappas). First place in the GTD class was first awarded to the Audi customer team after stewards inflicted a time penalty to Pier Guidi, who apparently forced the Audi off the track while trying to defend the lead. It was just later in the evening that, after further review, IMSA officials decided to overturn their decision, rewarding what was a masterful defensive move by the Italian Ferrari driver, and proclaiming the Level 5 Motosrport team winner of the GTD class.

Traffic Since the first moments of the 52nd running of the Daytona 24 Hours it was clear that traffic was going to be one of the main issues during the race. Right on the first lap several Prototype Challenge cars bumped into slower GT cars in the infield while a little later on,

Barbosa, Fittipaldi, Bourdais (Corvette DP) Photo: Rolex / Stephan Cooper

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DAYTONA 24 HOURS

Tandy, Lietz, Pilet (Porsche 911 RSR-GTLM)

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Snow, Heylen, Seefried (Porsche 911 GT America-GTD) Photo: Rolex / Stephan Cooper

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DAYTONA 24 HOURS

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spins and off track excursions were almost a constant scene at the “bus stop” chicane.

After the big crash between the Ferrari 458 Italia and the Bob Stallings Racing Corvette DP, that sent both drivers Matteo Malucelli and Memo Gidley to the hospital (Memo Gidley took the worse of it and had to undergo surgery on his left leg and arm, a very long recovery period is expected), the problem of slower GT cars was considered a real concern for the entire field.

Drivers visiting the media center all agreed on the difficulties of driving around slower cars and unexperienced drivers. The SRT factory drivers Dominik Farnbacher and Marc Goosens were the first to report the issue, while later on Sunday morning Tony Kanaan (driver of the No. 02 Chip Ganassi Racing Riley DP) expressed his concerns: “It is dangerous” said Kanaan. “Gentleman drivers many times don’t know where to go.

They want to help but they end up moving in the wrong spot and you risk an accident.”

The Chp Ganassi driver continued: “Do we need them? I would like to see 100% professionals on the track, but 100% it won’t happen”.

A new Golden Age The Florida classic race that kicks off the motorsport season in North America has always been considered one of the most important races in the world. This year the Rolex 24 at Daytona made history one more time as it opened the new United SportsCar Championship in great fashion.

In a time when racing drivers tend to be specialists in their specific form of racing, the Daytona 24 still brings together drivers from so many different types of racing.

Gurney, Fogarty, Gidley, Law (Corvette DP) Photo: Rolex / Stephan Cooper

W. Taylor, Angelelli, R. Taylor, J. Taylor (Corvette DP) Pruett, Rojas, McMurray, Karam (Riley DP) Photo: Rolex / Tom O’Neal

Dixon, Kanaan, Franchitti, Larson (Riley DP) Photo: Rolex / Stephan Cooper

B. Frisselle, B. Frisselle, Martin (Corvette DP) Engelhart, Ineichen, Bachler, Willsey (Porsche 911 GT America) Photo: Rolex / Tom O’Neal

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DAYTONA 24 HOURS

( Balzan, Westphal, Vilander, Case (Ferrari 458 Italia)

Photo: Rolex / Stephan Cooper

Sweedler, Bell, Segal, Pier Guidi (Ferrari 458 Italia)

Canache, Spencer, Pumpelly, Winkelhock (Audi R8 LMS-GTD)

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DAYTONA 24 HOURS

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For

example, an impressive number of 30 drivers entered this year’s 24 hours that have started at least one Indy car race, five of them have won the Indycar title (Sebastien Bourdais, Scott Sharp, Scott Dixon, Tony Kanaan and Ryan Hunter-Reay), and they all agree on one thing: the new United SportsCar Championship is a blessing for sports car racing and can really trigger a new golden age in motor sport.

“It’s fun to be racing all together in such unique tracks!” told us Sebastien Bourdais.

On the same note Ryan Hunter-Reay felt thrilled about the new championship in anticipation of his full commitment with SRT: “I think it’s great! In this series we have all the great teams, all the great drivers in one place and it feels like it has a lot of momentum going.”

While some fans would criticize what appeared to be a sort of NASCAR-isation of the race becoming a “show” (in reference to the full course caution decided with just minutes left, that led to the tight finish under the checkered flag), most of the fans fully appreciate the four classes of racecars that will battle for the title on North America’s most famous tracks.

David Hobbs (former British Formula 1 and endurance racing driver as well as this year’s Rolex 24 at Daytona Grand Marshall) would sum up the thoughts of many: “I cannot see any down side to this new USCC series. US racing couldn’t be worse than before, when GRAND-AM and American Le Mans Series were separated”.

Farnbacher, Goossens, Hunter-Reay (SRT Viper GTS-R) Photo: Rolex / Stephan Cooper

Bennett, Gue, Braun, Wilkins (ORECA FLM09-PC) Photo: Rolex / Stephan Cooper

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DAYTONA 24 HOURS

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DAYTONA 24 HOURS

Podium Finishes DP 1. Barbosa/Fittipaldi/Bourdais

(Corvette DP)

ActionExpress Racing 2. Taylor/Taylor/Taylor/Angelelli

(Corvette DP)

Wayne Taylor Racing 3. Frisselle/Frisselle/Martin/Giroix

(Corvette DP)

Action Express Racing PC 1. Bennett/Braun/Gue/Wilkins

(Oreca FLM09)

CORE autosport 2. Potolicchio/Marsal/Kimber-Smith

(Oreca FLM09)

8Star Motorsport 3. Ostella/Matos/Drissi/Casagrande/Campos

(Oreca FLM09)

Performance Tech Motorsports GTLM 1. Tandy/Lietz/Pilet

(Porsche 991 RSR)

Porsche North America 2. Auberlen/Priaulx/Hand/Martin

(BMW Z4 GTE)

BMW Team RLL 3. Farnbacher/Goossens/Hunter-Reay

(SRT Viper GTS-R)

SRT Motorsport GTD 1.

2.

3.

Bell/Sweedler/Segal/Tucker/Pier Guidi (Ferrari 458 Italia) Level 5 Canache/Pumpelly/Pappas/Winkelhock (Audi R8 LMS) Flying Lizard Motorsport Snow/Heylen/Seefried (Porsche 991 GT America) Snow Racing

Barbosa, Fittipaldi, Bourdais, Frisselle (Corvette DP) Photo: Rolex / Tom O’Neal

CGM

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AUTOSPORT MIX

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PREPARE FOR THE FUTURE

Prepare for the future: this task is the main focus of the 2014 rally season for ŠKODA. A very special challenge awaits works drivers Esapekka Lappi/Janne Ferm (FIN/FIN) and the other duo Sepp Wiegand/Frank Christian (D/D) at their first competitive outing of the year in the European Rally Championship.

At the heart of matters at ŠKODA Motorsport this year, however, will be the development of the new Fabia R5.

In the ERC, the two ŠKODA pairings of Esapekka Lappi/Janne Ferm and Sepp Wiegand/Frank Christian expect tougher opposition from other manufacturers’ new R 5 cars.

The two ŠKODA crews will start at selected

rounds of the European Championship. And the successful Fabia Super 2000 will proudly sport a cool new livery in 2014.

Sepp Wiegand, who is supported by ŠKODA AUTO Deutschland is also seen as a talented driver with a big future ahead of him. He finished fourth on his ERC debut for the ŠKODA works team at the Barum Rally in the Czech Republic – ŠKODA’s home race. Wiegand is now looking forward to the new challenge. “This is a new championship for us, and the majority of the routes are unfamiliar to us.

That doesn’t matter though: we will put out foot down right from the word go.”

“The development of the new car for the R 5

category will take priority this year: that is our motorsport future - said ŠKODA Motorsport Director Michal Hrabánek - However, we will be in action at the races again this year, and with our tried and tested model that has proven so successful – the Fabia Super 2000.”

It was with this rally car that Jan Kopecký and Pavel Dresler (CZ/CZ) won the European Championship title for ŠKODA last year.

The successful duo will line up in the AsiaPacific Rally Championship in 2014.

The new R 5 rally car is currently being developed in Mladá Boleslav as the successor to the extremely successful Fabia Super 2000 and is equipped with a 1.6-litre turbo engine,

in accordance with FIA regulations. “Entering the R 5 class is a logical step for ŠKODA. At this point in time, we are assuming that the new car will be homologated by mid-2015” said Hrabánek.

CGM

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GREEN SIDE

New 2014 Fiat 500e

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UNSURPASSED FRUGALITY

Born for the USA market, the New 2014 Fiat 500e recharges the electric vehicle segment with “state-of-the-art� innovation, combined with Italian style and performance

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NEW 2014 FIAT 500E

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Designed

to be a Fiat 500 first and foremost, this no-compromise electric vehicle (EV) builds on the Cinquecento’s successful small-car formula, while adding a liquid heated/cooled battery-electric powertrain that produces 111 horsepower (83 kW) and recharges in less than 4 hours with its 6.6 kW on-board charging module (OBCM) connected to a Level 2 energy source (220 volts).

When put to through its paces, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) rated the aerodynamically styled Fiat 500e with a 108 Highway MPGe rating and class-leading 87 miles of combined city and highway driving range. And thanks to this Cinquecento’s regenerative braking system, drivers will typically exceed 100 miles of driving range in the city – all without any tailpipe emissions.

Drives like a Fiat 500 that happens to be electric Making sure the new 2014 Fiat 500e delivers world-class EV handling and braking performance, engineers designed a unique chassis and suspension for the EV powertrain, while further solidifying the engaging European driving dynamics the FIAT brand and Cinquecento are known for.

Unique in the EV segment is the Fiat 500e’s innovative “blended braking” system. The 2014 Fiat 500e is designed to feel like a regular gasoline-powered Cinquecento, while still immediately regenerating. In most cases, the Fiat 500e uses 100% of its regenerative braking capability all the way down to 8 mph to maximize the vehicle’s efficiency, while enabling longer-life of the brakes.

The system also provides a more consistent and confident brake-pedal feel.

A unique lower-body structure design provides packaging and protection for the 2014 Fiat 500e’s battery, while delivering a 10 percent improvement in bending stiffness. In addition, the design change from internal combustion to battery-electric enabled the Fiat 500e to reproportion its weight for a 57/43 (compared to Fiat 500’s 64/36) front-to-rear weight distribution to improve handling performance. The result is a Cinquecento with a tighter and stiffer feel, and an added sense of confidence and control during higher speed maneuvers.

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NEW 2014 FIAT 500E

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NEW 2014 FIAT 500E

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Efficient and simple retro-futuristic styling The 2014 Fiat 500e pushes its iconic Italian design forward with its wind-tunnel-sculpted shape and retro-futuristic dot-matrix styled cues for a cutting-edge look. To achieve a 13 percent improvement in aerodynamics (0.311 coefficient of drag compared to the Fiat 500 Lounge’s 0.359), the Fiat 500e features eight exterior enhancements developed via more than 140 hours of wind tunnel testing and refinement. The result, a purposeful design that enables this Cinquecento to achieve an additional five miles of range on the highway.

Inside, Fiat 500e fuses retro-futuristic design with unique EV technology elements for an environment comprised of simplicity with innovation. Its unique 7-inch thin-film transistor (TFT) instrument cluster displays full-color picture graphics to illustrate vehicle functions, charge levels and trip summary. In addition, an EV-specific TomTom Navigation unit enables the driver to view the vehicle’s charge schedule, range, and power-flow gauges, and can even locate nearby charging stations with real-time availability. Below its instrument panel bezel, the Fiat 500e also includes a uniquely designed electronic shifter with easy-to-use push-button transmission mode selection. For added style, the interior environment is available in Nero (black) or exclusive Steam (white) both highlighted by Arancio Electrico (Electric Orange) to bring even more design character to this Cinquecento.

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NEW 2014 FIAT 500E

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FIAT Access provides real-time vehicle information Keeping passengers of the Fiat 500e connected to vehicle information is the FIAT Access smartphone app (compatible with iPhone and Android) with three years of connected services included that enables real-time vehicle status, manages charging, tracks the driver’s energy use, locates the vehicle and nearby charging stations, plans and sends routes to the vehicle and provides text-message and email alerts.

Note that this electrified Cinquecento also includes 13 product-specific improvements aiding in the vehicle’s reduction in interior cabin noise while driving.

FIAT ePass provides an ownership experience with added flexibility For those times when a 500e customer needs to drive beyond the vehicle’s range or needs the carrying capability of a larger vehicle, the 2014 Fiat 500e provides an alternative transportation plan called the Fiat 500e Pass program. The FIAT brand and Enterprise Holdings, owner and operator of the Enterprise Rent-A-Car, Alamo Rent-A-Car, and National Car Rental brands, partnered on the Fiat 500e Pass program, which provides purcha-

sers and lessees of a new 500e up to 12 days of alternate transportation each year for the first three years after the date of purchase.

The Fiat 500e Pass program is offered by FIAT exclusively in the U.S. to 500e customers as a standard feature. Through the program 500e customers will have access to vehicles such as the gas-powered Fiat 500, the coming Fiat 500L, the all-new Dodge Dart or the Chrysler 200 mid-size sedan. In addition, customers will have the flexibility to upgrade to a larger vehicle such as a minivan or a pickup truck subject to terms of the program.

The program will be valid at any Enterprise, Alamo or National car rental location throughout the U.S. When purchasers of a new 500e enroll in the Fiat 500e Pass program, Enterprise will provide them with an account number. For the first three years after purchase, each unique customer account will be allocated enough credits on the anniversary of their purchase date to provide 12 days of alternate transportation. The Fiat 500e Passes include unlimited mileage on eligible vehicles. The 500e owner only has to choose an eligible vehicle and the expense of the vehicle including applicable taxes will be covered subject to the terms and conditions of the program.

NEW 2014 FIAT 500E TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS BODY/CHASSIS

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Layout

Front-wheel drive (FWD)

Construction

Unitized steel body

Battery

12 volt, 500 CCA, maintenance free

SUSPENSION ELECTRIC MOTOR

Front

MacPherson suspension, coil spring

Availability

Standard - 500e

with twin-tube struts and stabilizer bar

Type and Description

Permanent magnetic electric traction

Rear

Rear twist-beam axle with coil springs

with electric-parking pawl

and twin-tube shock absorbers

Power

111 bhp (83 kW)

Torque

147 lb.-ft. (200 N•m)

STEERING

Max. Speed (estimated)

85 mph (137 kph)

Type

Rack and pinion with electric

EPA estimated miles-per-gallon equivalent (MPGe) Fuel Economy Label

power steering (EPS) column

City

122 MPGe (195 KPGe)

Overall Ratio

16.3:1

Highway

108 MPGe (173 KPGe)

Turning Diameter (curb-to-curb)

31.3 feet (9.54 m)

Combined

116 MPGe (186 KPGe)

Steering Turns (lock-to-lock)

3.0

EPA estimated Driving Range City, typical

More than 100 miles (160 km)

BRAKES

Combined, Label

87 miles (139 km)

Availability

Standard on 500e

Zero Emissions Vehicle (ZEV)

Front

Rotor size and type

11.0 x 0.87 (284 x 22) vented

Emissions

Caliper size and type

2.13 (54) single-piston with aluminum housing

BATTERY SYSTEM: 24 KWH LIQUID-COOLED/HEATED

Swept area

218 sq. in (1410 sq. cm)

LITHIUM-ION BATTERY

Rear

Rotor size and type

9.4 x 0.4 (251 x 11) solid

Availability

Standard — 500e

Caliper size and type

1.50 (38) single-piston with aluminum housing

Type and Description

24 kilowatt-hours (kWh) capacity with

Swept area

162 sq. in (1048 sq. cm)

97 lithium-ion cells, 364 volts

Thermal Management System

4 mode: thermal equalization,

DIMENSIONS AND CAPACITIES(D)

passive cooling, active cooling

Wheelbase

90.6 (2,300)

and active heating

Track, Front

55.4 (1,407)

On-board Charging Module (OBCM)

6.6-kW with AC to DC transformation

Track, Rear

55.0 (1,397)

with Level 1 or Level 2 charging

Overall Length

142.4 (3,617)

Estimated Charge Time

Level 1 (120V): less than 24 hours

Overall Width

64.1 (1,627)

Level 2 (240V): less than 4 hours

Overall Height

60.1 (1,527)

Power Inverter Module

DC-to-AC and DC-to-DC

Ground Clearance

4.5 (115)

Connector

SAE J1772

Drag Coefficient (Cd)

0.311

Curb Weight, lb. (kg)

2,980 (1,355)

VEHICLE COOLING MODULE

Weight Distribution, percent Front/Rear 57 / 43

Availability

Standard — 500e

Type and Description

Brazed-aluminum radiators, aluminum

condenser and cooling fan

(d) All dimensions measured at curb weight with standard tires.

WHEELS Availability

Standard on 500e

TRANSMISSION: SINGLE-SPEED AUTOMATIC

Type and material

Cast-aluminum, five-hole design,

Availability

Standard on 500e

painted Argento (silver)

Gear

Ratios

with Nero (black) accented inserts

Reverse

9.59:1

Size

15 x 5.5 (front) and 15 x 6.5 (rear)

Final-drive Ratio

9.59:1

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CLASSIC

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Renault Espace

INSPIRED BY TGV

30 years ago the Renault Espace revolutionized family motoring. This strange vessel – an open living room on wheels – was initially viewed with amazement but went on over the years to firmly establish itself.

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RENAULT ESPACE

In

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the early 1980’s, Renault was experiencing difficulties, mainly as a result of its ageing range. Market share in Europe had fallen from 15% to 11% and the brand was finding it difficult to come up with new ideas. At the same time, the competition was bringing out one new model after the next. This backdrop set the scene for the launch of Espace in June 1984.

It was a major risk for Renault but the result proved to be well worth it.

Matra was the 1st to come up with the idea of an MPV but vehicle manufacturers scoffed at the project. When Peugeot turned it down, Renault stepped in and decided to bring this avant-garde vehicle to market.

Bernard Hanon, President and CEO of Renault, nevertheless asked for the interior to be redesigned and made more modular. In April 1984, Espace was presented to an enthusiastic press. Sales started tentatively but after several months, demand soared skywards.

The

styling of Espace was inspired by France’s TGV high-speed train. With its revolutionary interior layout, it deserved its name. Expanding the approach initiated by hatchback design, it let users turn the interior into one easily reconfigured area.

The cabin could welcome up to 7 passengers with 2 or 3 rows of independent seats.

And it was fully modular. In just a minute or two, the rear area could be turned from a mini-living room with pivoting seats into a vast load area. The exceptionally large glazed surface turned the cabin of Espace into a living area.

Espace has never sacrificed performance to comfort. Motorists underline its high safety standards, as well as its roadholding, power and braking. Often imitated the conquest of Espace was clearly one huge step for the automotive industry.

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GLOBAL NEWS

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A TOUCH OF CLASS Royal College of Art and Alcraft Motor Company Project winners announced

Bespoke

restyling and engineering business Alcraft Motor Company has announced the winners of a design competition featuring students from the world-renowned Royal College of Art (RCA) Vehicle Design programme. The competition marked the culmination of a joint project exploring British design values and personalised vehicle design.

Students were challenged to develop a personalised design package for Range Rover products. The resulting designs took their in-

fluences from the UK’s design icons as well as heritage, and ranged from legendary cars such as the E-Type Jaguar, through to stately home architecture and country sports, and fashion icons such as the Burberry coat.

Jed Sheehan, who describes his style as: “a nod to the past and a big hello to the future”, received a special award for his treatment of the flagship Range Rover model, which has been translated into a design study by Alcraft.

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A TOUCH OF CLASS

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Sheehan’s

proposal featured clever detailing, including the use of teak on the sills, integrated into a bold but simple design with unfussy lines. In addition the young design student conceived a new design for the Evoque to sit alongside the larger model.

“I’m very happy to be receiving an award for my work on the Alcraft project because I’m a big fan of British brands and British design - said Jed - customisation for me is a must.

It’s about owning something special and allows you a mode of expression. With a little input from a customer it’s possible create something which can be cherished.”

The panel of judges from Alcraft Motor Company and the RCA also awarded commendations to two other students, Minwoo Hwang and Pierre Andlauer. Minwoo drew his inspiration from the craftsmanship and detailing seen in products as diverse as highly engineered bicycle equipment and crisply tailored suits, resulting in a clean, technical look. Pierre focused on the materials associated with country pursuits, applying leather to the vehicle exteriors, and also integrating a spare wheel into the bodywork in the style of the classic Land Rover Defender rear mounting point.

Matthew Humphries, design consultant to Alcraft Motor Company and also vehicle design tutor at the Royal College of Art, said: “Jed’s clarity of vision and passion for British design heritage in particular shone through. His work nicely combined traditional British design and cutting-edge luxury tastes, and also showed a great understanding of how to create something understated and refined but with impact.”

Humphries was formerly head of design at the Morgan Motor Company, where he was responsible for the Aeromax, Life Car, Plus 8, Eva GT, Aero Supersports, Aero Coupe and the classic Morgan three-wheeler.

Alcraft Motor Company has been founded with a unique commitment to reinterpret vehicles using British design values. The company will enhance products from brands with British heritage, focusing initially on Range Rover, Land Rover, Jaguar and Aston Martin.

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GLOBAL NEWS

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FERRARI

telemetry takes you to the limit

The

Ferrari Formula 1 experience has yielded a new tool invaluable to improving driving skills and helping owners fully experience that emotions that only a Ferrari can deliver, be it on the track or the road.

Ferrari Telemetry is a real-time telemetry system now available for Maranello’s F12berlinetta, 458 Speciale and LaFerrari sports cars, and allows the driver monitor your car’s position and analyse its performance, by recording all driving sessions and displaying the main data on the instrument binnacle. In a nutshell, this new piece of kit provides exactly the same technical support as Fernando Alonso and Kimi Räikkönen get during test sessions on the track and in the actual grands prix themselves.

Thanks to the huge amount of data available and a special Ferrari Telemetry App, the Ferrari owners can now compare their car’s performance over a whole series of different laps or even the same road route driven several times. The App can also be combined with a high resolution camera kit to provide simultaneous video recordings of your route and driving technique too.

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! !! s le b u o d G A M L A B CARS GLO

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CARS GLOBALMAG

automotive digital/magazine published by DoppiovĂš 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

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PIC OF THE MONTH

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Sebastien Ogier and Julien Ingrassia winners of the 2014 Montecarlo Rally with the Volkswagen Polo WRC