Ferrari F12 Berlinetta

This good looking Ferrari is the replacement for the 599 GTB Fiorano. The F12 Ferrari is the most powerful road model in Ferrari's history. The engine is a 6.2-liter (6262cc) V12 that produces 730 bhp and 509 lb-ft of torque, connected to a dual-clutch transmission. The F12 in the right hands will accelerate from 0-62 MPH in 3.1 seconds, 0-124 mph in 8.5 seconds, which is mindblowingly fast. Top speed is 211 mph. Check out the full report here

Top Gear takes BMW 550d x drive for a spin

Check it outHERE

BMW M550 d X drive

This car is going to be beast. BMW explains the tri turbo diesel engine that powers it here.

Cadillac ATS-V ?

It seems like GM is working on some twin turbo V6's, could the Cadillac ATS-V be powered by one of these?

Cadillac XTS-V (not)

It appears that Cadillac will NOT be releasing a XTS-V at this point of time which is a shame.

Cadillac has the CTS-V available with 556hp and previously had the STS-V which is a fun car with 469hp.

The ATS which has just been released may get a V edition, but time will tell.

Lotus Renault F1 confirm Nick Heidfeld to stand in for Kubica

With Robert Kubica having a bad rally crash recently, the Lotus Renault F1 #1 driver has been temporarily replaced with 33 year old German Nick Heidfeld. Nick is a veteran of 172 F1 races and shares the title with Stefan Johansson of the most podium finishes without a win. Lets hope that Nick can get the win he deserves this year. We wish Robert Kubica a speedy recovery. Hopefully he will be back in the cockpit soon. But in the mean time. Go for it Nick.

Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

Chevrolet today released the 2012 Camaro ZL1 at the Chicago Auto show. This is exciting news. We are back in business when it comes to muscle car wars. It was expected that the supercharged Camaro would be called the Z28, but as you will see from excerpts of the Chevrolet press release below, the ZL1 is representative of a much rarer model.

The Zl1 will be powered by a supercharged V-8 engine producing an estimated 550 horsepower (410 kW) which in turn will make the Camaro ZL1 the fastest Camaro ever offered by Chevrolet. That is good news.

The ZL1 features technologically advanced and highly developed chassis and suspension systems that help it deliver balanced, track-ready handling and braking power to complement its high engine output. Rigorous development of the ZL1 is ongoing, and official estimates of the car's capabilities will be released later in 2011, as testing nears completion.

The ZL1 name is derived from the all-aluminum racing engine of the same name, which was developed in the late 1960s and installed into a handful of regular-production 1969 Camaros. Only 69 were built with the engine, but they've achieved mythical status among enthusiasts, as they represented the pinnacle in Camaro performance until now.

The 2012 ZL1 model is designed to be a major leap forward for the Camaro, bringing a new level of performance capability to the segment. The central goal of the car's development was creating something new, a Camaro intended to reach optimal lap times on top road-racing circuits and excellent driving dynamics on the street. To achieve that goal, engineers evolved many of the existing Camaro's systems, as well as incorporated new technologies such as electric power steering and Magnetic Ride Control, the world's fastest-reacting suspension system.

Major elements of the ZL1's design are a new front fascia and hood with air extractors, designed in tandem to create aerodynamic downforce to aid handling. The car's hood includes a signature center section constructed of carbon fiber and rendered in satin black finish. New rocker panels, wide tires, 20-inch wheels and exhaust tips portray the car's handling and power.

Supporting the dynamic track and street performance of the ZL1 is the LSA 6.2L supercharged engine (currently used in the world fastest sedan, the Cadillac CTS-V), which will produce an estimated 550 horsepower (410kW) and 550 lb.-ft. of torque (677 Nm), with specific features for the Camaro. Built on GM's legendary all-aluminum, small-block V-8 architecture, the LSA features an intercooled supercharger system, premium heat-resistant aluminum-alloy cylinder heads and other details designed to ensure its exceptional performance is delivered with smoothness and refinement. Components and design elements that contribute to the LSA's performance include:

-- Balanced, lightweight reciprocating assembly

-- High-strength hypereutectic pistons

-- Sixth-generation Eaton supercharger with four-lobe rotors

-- Piston oil squirters.

 

Camaro ZL1 is a complete high-performance car, not just a Camaro with more power. Key technical highlights include:

Transmission – The high-performance Tremec TR-6060 six-speed manual is matched with the LSA engine. It is the “MG9” version of the transmission, with a higher torque capacity. It is used with a dual-mass flywheel and twin-disc clutch for easy operation and shift smoothness. A new, shorter-throw shifter actuates the gear changes.

Exhaust – ZL1 is equipped with a dual-mode exhaust system, which alters the sound level and character in response to engine rpm. First used on the legendary Corvette, and specifically tuned for Camaro ZL1, the dual-mode exhaust will give the car a signature sound.

Drivetrain– It is revised with a stronger driveshaft and rear axle system, featuring a larger and stronger cast iron differential housing, stronger axles and heavy-duty limited-slip differential. This patent-pending system is designed to ensure that ZL1's tremendous power is delivered smoothly to the ground.

Suspension – The suspension features completely revised tuning and the inclusion of segment-exclusive Magnetic Ride Control. ZL1's Magnetic Ride system will include driver selectable modes (Tour and Sport) tailored for the preferred style of driving. It uses advanced magneto-rheological science to produce shock damping with the highest level of precision, enabling body control optimized for excellent performance in everyday driving as well as track situations. This technology appears on only a small roster of some of the world's finest performance cars. Other chassis elements are redesigned to support the car's high-performance limits. Rear stabilizer bars have drop links repositioned outboard of the control arms. This makes the bars more effective in controlling body roll in turns, with crisp response to driver commands.

Brakes and Steering – Camaro ZL1 features an advanced track-capable braking system, developed in conjunction with experts from Brembo. The large 14.6-inch (370 mm) two-piece front rotors have six-piston calipers; the 14.4-inch (365 mm) rear rotors have four-piston calipers. ZL1 marks the entry of a new electric power steering system to Camaro. It is being developed to ensure precise control and feedback to the driver, with greater variability of effort for high-performance driving.

Exterior – ZL1's signature from the front is the redesigned fascia and aluminum hood with a raised, carbon fiber insert. The fascia includes a front splitter and new vertical fog lamps. The fog lamp area includes air intakes designed for brake cooling. The hood features front-mounted air extractors that direct air precisely over the car. Visually, this center section, in satin black carbon fiber, communicates the car's high-performance intent as a visual contrast to the car's exterior color. Functionally, the air extractor is a key in connecting airflow closely to the bodywork, creating aerodynamic downforce. The carbon fiber center section reduces the mass of the hood. High-intensity discharge (HID) headlamps and fog lamps are standard. The rear of the car includes a diffuser and spoiler, also functional elements that enhance the car's aerodynamics.

Wheels and Tires – New-design, 20-inch forged aluminum wheels, which are lighter than the 20-inch wheels used on the Camaro SS, are used with new Goodyear Supercar F2 ties developed specifically for the ZL1.

Interior – ZL1 is tailored for high-performance driving. The front seats feature microfiber suede inserts. Other enhancements include a redesigned steering wheel, alloy pedals, Head-Up Display with unique performance readouts and the “four-pack” auxiliary gauge system featuring a boost readout.

Production details

All of the Camaro exterior colors will be offered with the ZL1, but black is the only interior color. The unique exterior features are complemented with a black center section on the hood. Inside, the Camaro ZL1 has heated leather seats with microfiber inserts and ZL1 logos embroidered on the front headrests. Microfiber suede is repeated as an accent on the instrument panel, adding a richer look to the interior. The ZL1 will include the same content as the current 2SS package and include the following new or unique features:

-- Six-way power driver and passenger seats

-- Unique instrument panel and door panel inserts; and ZL1-logo sill plates

-- Steering wheel audio controls with Bluetooth capability

-- Wireless PDIM and USB-port

-- Boston Acoustics premium audio system

-- Rear parking assist

-- Rear camera system (displayed in the inside rearview mirror).

Engineers have already driven Camaro ZL1 prototypes extensively at demanding road courses in the U.S. and Germany, with final testing being completed through the balance of 2011. 

I am looking forward to seeing the ZL1 in person. I hope Chevrolet prices the vehicle well and does not limit production to just 69.

Thank you Chevrolet.......

F1 Grand Prix manager ( fantasy) challenge to you!!!

I love F1. I have found that f1grandprixmanager.com is one of the best F1 fantasy leagues out there. It is not for that faint of heart and takes some time, no one that I have invited to join has beaten me yet and most quit half way through (or earlier). It would also really help you if you follow all of the grand prix throughout the year.  

So I challenge you to join and beat me. Last year I was #7 for everyone playing the game, this year I need to improve. My team name is "Good" be sure to leave a message on kiwicarlovers.blogspot.com telling us that you have joined and your team name. Good luck...

 

Cadillac CTS-V black diamond edition

Cadillac has just announced an addition to the CTS-V range, with a new version called the Black Diamond Edition. The Black Diamond edition comes with a special black paint finish that is embedded with aluminum flakes. Imagine the old hot rods with candy apple red flake paint, except it is black.

The paint scheme is intended to look like tiny diamonds are embedded in the Cadillac's surface. The engine remains at 556 HP, which may disappoint some, but you'll get black-graphite 19-inch wheels, black wood trim, yellow-painted brake calipers and Recaro leather seats with suede inserts

You can order the CTS-V black diamond edition in wagon, sedan and coupe as of next month. Price for this beast start at $69,190 with a six-speed manual and $70,490 for cars equipped with an automatic transmission. This increases the base by $4850 over the CTS-V base models. 

I'd like the sedan or the wagon. Not over the moon with the coupes styling and yellow interior option. You could always order the "standard" CTS-V and take it to D3 Cadillac or Hennessy and for the extra $4,850 you could most likely take the HP to over 600. Yee HAA.

Stefan Johansson (ex F1, ALMS, Indy etc ) watches

Racing car driver and talented artist Stefan Johansson is designing and selling luxury watches, for both ladies and men. These watches are sure to be desirable for the avid motor racing fan and watch collector.

I have seen some of his collection in person and from what I have seen, Stefan is making brilliant, good looking watches. You can order your new watch off his website here.

Here is a particularly good video of Stefan driving for Ferrari in F1 and doing it well.

McLaren MP4-12C begins production

The road car McLaren is soon to be selling, has began production at the McLaren Technology Centre (MTC) in Woking, England. Most of the new cars to roll off the line will be made across the road at the new production facility as of May 2011, but the time has come to start delivering.

 

 The MP4-12C features a twin-turbo 3.8-liter V8 with 447 kW (600 bhp / 608 PS) and 599 Nm (442 lb-ft) of torque connected to a seven-speed "Seamless Shift" double-clutch transmission. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (62mph) is less than 3.8 seconds, but not quite as quick at the mighty McLaren F1 which did it in 3.1 without turbos. Top speed expected to be higher than 300 km/h (186 mph).

Price in USA will be $229,000 +/- 

Is there a Toyota Prius oversupply ?

I think that there may be an over supply of Toyota Prius (s) in Southern California? I was doing my daily real estate search and mail pick up and counted no less than 10 Prius on my drive home. They remind me of the vehicle in Mr Bean the 3 wheeled Robin. They always seem to cut in front of you and slow down, or the drivers want to race. Don't get me wrong, it is good to be environmental and I thank the drivers, including friends of mine for making up for the lousy gas mileage I get in my vehicle, but please with all respect to Toyota, it is time to find something else to be the trendy car of the month, year, decade??? How about a Tesla :?

2011 Chevrolet Camaro Convertible Neiman Marcus edition

The 2011 Chevrolet Camaro Convertible Neiman Marcus edition has sold out in... 3 minutes. The 100 vehicles allocated to Neiman Marcus is going to be delivered first to their buyers before the general public. The 2SS model has a 6.2-liter V8 engine and the purchaser's choice of a 426-horsepower six-speed manual or 400-horsepower six-speed automatic transmission. The NM Edition Camaro convertibles feature an exclusive tri-coat exterior paint in Deep Bordeaux with ghosted stripes. The Pirellis ride on exclusive 21-inch five-spoke wheels with Brilliant Red detailing. The beautiful Bordeaux hued convertible top is highlighted with a silver painted windshield surround. Brembo® high-performance disc brakes, StabiliTrak electronic stability control system and 4.5-link independent rear suspension. Inside the vehicle is Amber leather with Brilliant Red accents on the center console, steering wheel, and shift knob.

The 2011 Chevrolet Camaro Convertible is the result of some hard work by the designers at Holden in Australia. Nice car, not sure about the price though???

Be careful when you overtake...

see more Funny

Cadillac STS V

The Cadillac STS V is bigger than the CTS V and more the size of a BMW 750i. This sleeper Cadillac has a 4.4 liter supercharged V8 putting out 469HP (350KW)and is capable of 0-60 in under 5 seconds stock standard. The STS V was produced from 2006-2010 and had a MSRP of $77,000 +/- when new.
Super comfortable to drive, comes with the mod cons like satellite radio, navigation, on-star, cd stacker in dash, Brembo brakes and a heavy duty rear end.
Around town I can tell you first hand that the car consumes about 8-9 mpg, but on the highway 20-22 mpg has been obtained.
Take the car to D3 Cadillac and you can potentially get 600+hp. Fun times.
I like mine in black, but also looks good in silver.

Would have been nice if the guy cleaned his car before filming...

2011 Ford Mustang or Chevrolet Camaro?

What would you chose?

Both would be v8, both would be manual.

McLaren MP4-12C tested by Jenson Button and Lewis Hamilton

This car is going to be a screamer!!!

f1grandprixmanager.com

It is the time of the year again when you should sign up for the supreme F1 game and try to beat me. My team name is "Good"

Good Luck

Schumacher signs for Mercedes GP for 2010

F1 legend and 7 time world champion Michael Schumacher has signed with Mercedes GP (Formally Brawn and Honda) fro a 3 year period. This means that Michael will once again be partnered with Ross Brawn who has been with him during his previous world championship years. Michaelwill be 41 years old when the season starts making him the oldest driver on the grid. 2010 is going to be a brilliant year in F1. Wonder if Ralph will get the same idea?

Kimi Raikkonen moves from F1 to WRC for 2010

Kimi Raikkonen previously a brilliant F1 driver at Ferrari (World Champion 2007), McLaren and Sauber will be moving away from Formula 1 and competing in the 2010 season of the WRC. Ferrari paid out his contract 1 year early to allow double World F1 Champion Fernando Alonso to take the seat opposite Massa for 10. Raikkonen will be racing under the Citroen Junior banner for the WRC championship team. Kimi will campaign in all but one of the 13 rounds next year, sitting out the New Zealand event which is a bit of a shame as I would have liked to see if Kimi can keep up with my old neighbor and NZ rally expert Patrick Malley.

2009 Cadillac CTS-V Hennessey V700 605 RWHP

This Cadillac has 605 Rear wheel Horse Power with it's modified supercharged V8 Corvette ZR-1 engine. It does 0-60 in McLaren F1 territory and can hit close to 200 Mph. It sounds fantastic. All cars should sound like this. Turn up the volume.

Rolls Royce Ghost 2010

The beautiful looking RR 4 officially got it's production name today. That would be the Rolls Royce Ghost. The vehicle will be powered by a 6.675 liter twin turbo V12 pumping out HP north of 500. This car will be smaller than it's big brother the Phantom and will probably be a lot more fun to drive. I'd expect that a few "drivers" may be delegated different jobs when the owner of the RR Ghost wants to drive it them self rather than being chauffeured.
Rolls Royce CEO Tom Purves announced the vehicles name at the Shanghai Motor Show. The new Ghost will be built at the Goodwood manufacturing facility on the south coast of England as a 2010 model towards the end of 2009.

2010 Jaguar XJ

The photo above ( Courtesy of Auto Express ) is that of the 2010 Jaguar XJ. The new XJ looks to have taken some styling cues from the handsome XF and is gunning for 7 Series and S Class business.
Rumor has it that the base engine will be 385 HP V8 with a 503 HP Supercharged V8 at the flagship model designed to give the S63 and the 760 a run for the money.
A diesel option is also likely.
I look forward to seeing the new model in the flesh and I wish Jaguar great success.

2010 BMW 760i / Li

BMW has outdone themselves with the new twin turbo V12 engine announced for the upcoming 760 series. BMW designed a new engine from the ground up to replace the previous normally aspirated 453 HP V12. The new twin turbo unit has considerably better fuel economy (about 4.5% better) has a lot more power ( 400kw / 544hp @ 5000 rpm ) and maximum torque is 750 Newton-Meters (553 lb-ft) at 1500 rpm.

This car has tire shredding power and can sprint from 0-62 mph in about 4.6 seconds. Best you keep your eyes peeled if you think you are fast in your M3. Also new to BMW is an 8 speed transmission a la M Benz.

It is entirely likely that the new engine will find its way into the Rolls Royce Phantom which is hovering around with the old engine, but time will tell.

It is nice to see BMW using turbo engines, getting fuel consumption and emissions down and bringing the power back.

2009 Corvette ZR1 according to Jay

This is a magnificent car.... Well done GM.

Hydrogen fueling pump in West Los Angeles

I was getting my haircut at my usual place, which led to taking my car to be cleaned at the usual place and interestingly enough there is a hydrogen fueling pump just across the road on Santa Monica Blvd at the shell station. Upon close inspection it looked to be all hooked up, but alas there were no Hydrogen Bmw 7 series or Honda Hydrogen cars lining up. While the service station my have made the investment and at this time not getting a return, it is a great sign of things to come.

Mini E (Electric)

As per a BMW press release on October 18th 2008. The BMW Group will be the world's first manufacturer of premium automobiles to deploy a fleet of some 500 all-electric vehicles for private use in daily traffic. The MINI E will be powered by a 150 kW (204 hp) electric motor fed by a high-performance rechargeable lithium-ion battery, transferring its power to the front wheels via a single-stage helical gearbox nearly without a sound and entirely free of emissions. Specially engineered for automobile use, the battery technology will have a range of more than 240 kilometers, or 150 miles. The MINI E will initially be made available to select private and corporate customers as part of a pilot project in the US states of California, New York and New Jersey. The possibility of offering the MINI E in Europe as well is currently being considered. The MINI E will give its world premiere at the Los Angeles Auto Show on November 19 and 20, 2008.

The MINI E's electric drive train produces a peak torque of 220 Newton meters, delivering seamless acceleration to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 8.5 seconds. Top speed is electronically limited to 152 km/h (95 mph). Featuring a suspension system tuned to match its weight distribution, the MINI E sports the brand's hallmark agility and outstanding handling.

By introducing the MINI E, the BMW Group is underscoring the resolve with which it works towards reducing energy consumption and emissions in road traffic. The BMW Group is drawing on its unique technological expertise in the field of drive systems to develop a vehicle concept enabling zero emissions without renouncing the joy of driving. Putting some 500 cars on the road under real daily traffic conditions will make it possible to gain widely applicable hands-on experience. Evaluating these findings will generate valuable know-how, which will be factored into the engineering of mass-produced vehicles.

The BMW Group aims to start series production of all-electric vehicles over the medium term as part of its Number ONE strategy. The development of innovative concepts for mobility in big-city conurbations within the scope of "project i" has a similar thrust, as its objective also includes making use of an all-electric power train.

The energy storage unit: cutting-edge lithium-ion technology engineered specifically for use in the MINI.

Based on the current MINI, the car will initially be available as a two-seater. The space taken up by back-seat passengers in the series model has been reserved for the lithium-ion battery. When in use in the zero-emissions MINI, the battery unit combines high output with ample storage capacity and a small footprint with power ratios that are unrivaled in this field of application so far. The lithium-ion storage unit will have a maximum capacity of 35 kilowatt hours (kWh) and transmit energy to the electric motor as direct current at a nominal 380 volts. The rechargeable battery is made up of 5,088 cells grouped into 48 modules. These modules are packaged into three battery elements that are compactly arranged inside the MINI E.

The energy storage unit's basic components are based on the technological principle that has proven itself in practice in power supplies for mobile phones and portable computers. The MINI E's lithium-ion battery can be plugged into all standard power outlets. Its charge time is strongly dependent on the voltage and amperage of the electricity flowing through the grid. In the USA, users can recharge a battery that has been completely drained within a very short period of time using a wallbox that will ship with every MINI E. The wallbox will be installed in the customer's garage, enable higher amperage, and thus provide for extremely short charging times. Wallboxes fully recharge batteries after a mere two-and-a-half hours.

Driven by electricity: reliably, affordably and free of emissions.

A full recharge draws a maximum of 28 kilowatt hours of electricity from the grid. Based on the car's range, a kilowatt hour translates into 5.4 miles. Besides the benefit of zero-emissions driving, the MINI E thus offers significant economic advantages over a vehicle powered by a conventional internal combustion engine as well.

The heavy-duty battery delivers its power to an electric motor, which transforms it into thrilling agility. Mounted transversely under the MINI E's bonnet, the drive train unleashes its full thrust from a dead standstill. This provides for the car's fascinating launch capability. The MINI E's intense driving experience is augmented by its dynamic deceleration potential, which is also directly coupled to the accelerator pedal. As soon as the driver releases the gas pedal, the electric motor acts as a generator. This results in braking force, and the power recovered from the kinetic energy is fed back to the battery. This interaction ensures extremely comfortable drives - especially at medium speed with constant, but marginal, variation. In city traffic, some 75 percent of all deceleration can be done without the brakes. Making substantial use of this energy recuperation feature extends the car's range by up to 20 percent.

Signature MINI agility in a new guise.

Weighing in at 1,465 kilograms (3.230 lbs), the MINI E has an even weight distribution. Minor modifications made to the suspension ensure safe handling at all times. The Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) system has been adapted to this model's specific wheel loads.

The MINI E's brake system comes with a newly developed electric underpressure pump. Its Electrical Power Assisted Steering (EPS) is the same as the one used in mass-produced MINIs. Both brake and steering assistance react to driving conditions and are thus extremely efficient. Even the air conditioning's electrical compressor only operates if desired or necessary.

Design: unmistakably MINI, undoubtedly new.

At first glance, the MINI E is obviously an iteration of the brand. But its design, which is the blueprint for the zero-emissions two-seater, has been complemented by a number of visual cues that point to its revolutionary drive concept. All of the units produced for the pilot project will have the same paintwork and bear a serial number on their front fenders.

The MINI E's coachwork sports an exclusive combination of metallic Dark Silver on all panels but the roof, which is clad in Pure Silver. What distinguishes the zero-emissions MINI is a specially designed logo in Interchange Yellow, depicting a stylized power plug in the shape of an "E" set against the silver backdrop. It has been applied to the roof, in smaller dimensions to the front and back, to the charger port lid, the dashboard trim, and - combined with the MINI logo - to the door jamb, in slightly modified form. The color of the roof edges, mirror housings, interior style cues and seat seams will match the logo's yellow tone as well.

Moreover, the central gauge and the battery level indicator behind the wheel of the MINI E, which replaces the MINI's rev counter, feature yellow lettering against a dark grey background. The battery level is displayed in percentage figures. The central gauge includes an LED display indicating power consumption in red and power recuperation in green.

MINI E customers will be part of a pioneering mission.

A 500-unit, limited-production MINI E series will be manufactured through the end of 2008. The project will thus attain an order of magnitude that clearly exceeds the size of currently comparable test series. Putting the MINI E on the road on a daily basis will be a pioneering feat to which both the drivers and engineers of the first zero-emissions MINI will contribute as a team.

MINI E customers will join forces with BMW Group experts to assist in the project's scientific evaluation. MINI E engineers accord high importance to staying in touch with the drivers on a regular basis, as this will help them analyze driver behavior besides vehicle characteristics in order to gain the most accurate and realistic picture of the demands placed on a vehicle with a purely electrical drive in the select usage areas.

Special charging station and full service for every MINI E.

The cars will change hands based on a one-year lease with an extension option. Monthly lease installments will cover any required technical service including all necessary maintenance and the replacement of wearing parts. At the end of the lease, all of the automobiles belonging to the project will be returned to the BMW Group's engineering fleet where they will be subjected to comparative tests.

The MINI E's lithium-ion battery can be charged using a wallbox provided to MINI customers. Only lockable garages or similar buildings will qualify as homebases and power stations for the MINI E.

Maintenance by qualified specialists.

The electric drive's high-voltage technology requires that maintenance work be done by qualified personnel using special tools that are not included in MINI service partners' standard toolboxes. In light of this, a service base will be set up on both coasts, staffed by service engineers that are specially trained to perform maintenance and repair work on the MINI E's electrical components. In the event of drive malfunction, these experts will provide professional support at the customer's local MINI dealer or the service base's specially equipped workshop. Technical inspections will take place after 3,000 miles (just under 5,000 kilometers) and at least after six months.

Production in Oxford and Munich.

The MINI E has already gone through the major phases of product development for mass-produced vehicles and passed numerous crash tests on the way. Aspects investigated besides passenger protection were the impact of collision forces on the lithium-ion battery and finding a non-hazardous location for it in the car. The MINI E's energy storage unit emerged completely unscathed from all of the crash tests mandated by US standards, which are especially high.

Production of the approximately 500 cars will take place at the company's Oxford and Munich sites and is scheduled for completion before the end of 2008. MINI's UK plant will be responsible for manufacturing the entire vehicle with the exception of the drive components and the lithium-ion battery, with the brand's series models rolling off its assembly lines concurrently. The units will then be transferred to a specially equipped manufacturing complex situated on BMW plant premises where the electric motor, battery units, performance electronics and transmission will be integrated.

To download photos and technical specifications for the MINI E, please visit the BMW Group PressClub at www.press.bmwgroup.com

Good on BMW for making this car. It will work well in places like NYC and Los Angeles. I may even get one myself.

HSV W427. The 500hp Australian BEAST.

Holden Special Vehicles (HSV) today announced the seven liter W427 program.

Tom Walkinshaw, who has been involved with making a few fast cars in the past, confirmed the price of the W427 will be $AUS150,000, plus on road costs. HSV will build up to 427 W427s, with vehicles being built to order. These will surely become collectors items up there with the SLR5000, VK Group A Brock, GTR XU-1 etc etc etc.

Each New Zealand and Australian HSV Dealer (64 in total) will be allocated one W427, as long as they have a firm retail order. Remaining W427s will be allocated to dealers based on 2007 sales figures.

Tom Walkinshaw has confirmed the final power output figure for the HSV W427. It will be 375kW (502.88HP) and 640NM of torque.

The Holden Special Vehicles W427 will go on sale in August. Looking forward to seeing what the 0-62MPH and 1/4 mile will be. I am guessing 4.3-4.5 to 62mph (100kph) and 13.0 for the 1/4.

The mighty Powertrain
- 7.0 Litre, LS7 Engine with HSV specific calibration
- Putting out 502.88 HP (375kw) @ 6500rpm & 640Nm @ 5000rpm
- Over radiator style cold air induction system – with high flow air filter.
- Dry sump lubrication system with 2 stage pump.
- Hand fabricated aluminium oil reservoir, with baffles for high G loading.
- Front mount, 13 row engine oil cooler
- Ceramic coated, high flow 4 into 1 extractors
- High flow catalytic converters and exhaust system (3” into 2 ¾”)
- Active bi-modal rear mufflers
- Exhaust back pressure management
- Improved noise quality
- High strength limited slip differential
- New high strength 6 speed manual gear box (TR6060)
- GMPT LS7 Clutch with new actuator and pedal assembly for high clamp loads

Save up your gas money.

2009 Cadillac CTS-V

It seems that the 2009 Cadillac CTS-V is going to be a tire smoking power house. Its 6.2-liter supercharged V8 is expected to produce 556 horsepower at 6,100rpm and 551 pound-feet of torque at 3,800rpm. Cadillac claims the CTS-V sedan will go from 0-to-60mph in just 3.9 seconds and through the quarter mile in 12 seconds flat. Now that my friends is FAST.

Top speed when equipped with the six-speed automatic transmission is limited to 175mph. Get the six-speed manual and you’re free to run all the way to 191mph. Autobahn type situation on our hands courtesy of Detroit.

Even with gas at about $5 per gallon, if it is as economical as it's cousin the Corvette ZO6 then this may well be the candidate for my next vehicle.

Saleen S5S Raptor

Famed US vehicle tuner and manufacturer has released a new concept called the Saleen S5S Raptor. The vehicle is powered by a hand built 5.0 V8 supercharged 650 hp engine. The car is likely to go into production within 2 years with a price of approx $185,000 This car is a good look and if it preforms as well as it looks it will certainly be a US built vehicle that will give Porsche, Ferrari and Lamborghini a good run for their money.

Unleash the beast.

BMW Gran Turismo

BMW has confirmed that the CS Concept is a design study outlining the company’s new flagship Gran Turismo model. The car will fit above the 7-Series when it hits markets in 2011, and will compete with other 4 dr coupes including the Porsche Panamera, Aston Martin Rapide,
Mercedes-Benz CLS etc

Gerhard Richter, a member of the management team of the BMW Motorsport, will be assigned project leader on the upcoming Gran Turismo, which means that this is going to be a fast beast.

Various reports say that engine choices will range from a V8 all the way up to a V12. A new report from a German magazine says that the BMW Gran Turismo will get a new V10 twin-turbo charged, direct fuel injection engine that is capable of producing up to 625-hp, which is just a little more than the Mercedes Benz S65 AMG. The report also says an entry level V8 twin-turbo will also be offered producing 450-hp.

What will BMW come up with next?

Grand Prix manager is back

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Kimi is 2007 F1 World Champion

Congratulations to Kimi Raikkonen from Ferrari who had luck on his side today when he came from behind to clinch the 2007 F1 World Drivers Championship. Well deserved, and it confirms it to me that Kimi is the best F1 driver out there. Lewis Hamilton let it slip by making a few silly mistakes, and Ferrari simply out preformed McLaren today. Alonso came in 3rd behind Massa.

So
Kimi is Champ with 110 points followed by
Lewis Hamilton with 109 point, then
Fernando Alonso with 109 points.What a great year in F1. Now we have to wait to March next year for the beginning of the 2008 Championship.

McLaren fined and wiped of constructor points for 2007.

Formula 1 team McLaren Mercedes has been stripped of all of their constructors points and fined $100 Million US less their loss of income from the FOM for 2007. This will allow drivers Lewis Hamilton and world Champ Fernando Alonso to continue and race for the drivers championship.

This is all because of the Stepneygate saga involving possibly using Ferrari information to modify the McLaren cars. This will be a blow for the team, but I guess they are lucky to not be totally banned. The fine was the largest in motor sport history.

McLaren will need to have their 2008 cars scrutinized by the FIA before the start of the race season next year to make sure no Ferrari type parts or intelligence has been used.
Ferrari are effectively now the 2007 Formula 1 constructor champions.

2008 Audi RS6 "610hp?"

It has recently been reported that leaked vehicle chassis codes for the new Audi RS6 had the output from its twin turbo V10 engine at 571hp, or 426kW, which certainly will give the M5 and M6 a run for their money. Recent information from a whistle blower at Audi, however, has put this figure in possible doubt. The supposed reliable source claims that the 571hp will only be the specified figure Audi will market the car with. True output will be upwards of 600hp, with 610hp (455kW) pegged as the most likely figure. BMW claim that the 335i has 300hp, when in fact it is much closer to 360hp. It is entirely likely that Audi is taking no chances with the new RS6 and even BMW’s excellent 500hp V10 motor will struggle to compete with this kind of power output.

If this is the case, then the 08 Audi RS6 will churn out more horse power than the BMW M6 and M5, the CL65 AMG +/-, The Ferrari F430 and the legendary Porsche Turbo.

I really love horse power wars. Bring it on Audi, bring it on.

BMW 135i Coupe

This is going to be one fact little car. It is the coupe version on the already on the road hatch back and it is powered by a 300hp (some say 360hp) twin turbo inline 6 cylinder engine producing 300 lb-ft of torque from as low as 1400 rpm. This little rocket will propell itself from 0-100 kph (62mph) in 5.3 seconds according to BMW and will speed on to a top electronically limited speed of 155 mph or 250kph. It even has BMW's traditional Hofmeister kink.

The car is bing produced as a 2008 model and is expected in showrooms early in the new year. It is certainly going to bring back some memories for the 2002 Turbo owners out there.

Another cool car from BMW.

Formula one season update

What a phenomenal F1 season it has been so far up to the British Grand Prix in Silverstone England today.

Newcomer and rookie Lewis Hamilton with McLaren has been on all of the podiums (9) so far this year and is leading the championship in points with 70. He has won races and is re writing the record book. Ron Dennis made a wise decision in putting him in a McLaren this year.

This is what it looks like in the 2007 drivers championship so far:

01	Lewis Hamilton	70
02	Fernando Alonso	58
03	Kimi Räikkönen	52
04	Felipe Massa	51
05	Nick Heidfeld	33
06	Robert Kubica	22

It is impressive to see that BMW is 3rd in the championship points. They have some more work to do to be challenging the podium, but surely and steadily they are doing it. I'd think that by the end of the year they will be nipping at the heals of Ferrari and McLaren.

The race in Silverstone today was great. Lewis Hamilton was on pole slightly edging out Kimi Raikkonen at Ferrari in qualifying. Felipe Massa was unable to keep his Ferrari running on the formation lap and was forced to start from LAST for the race finishing 5th behind Robert Kubica of Poland in the Sauber BMW who finished 4th.
Fernando Alonso looked like he was in with a shot for the win after the first pit stops, but the Ferrari crew and Kimi's spectacular driving knocked that on the head with Kimi winning, Fernando Alonso the current world champion of McLaren 2nd and England new super star Lewis Hamilton finishing the race in 3rd position.

I have to give it to Ferrari for this race. Kimi won and Felipe came 5th. I would expect that it would have been a Ferrari 1-2 if Felipe had of not had to have started from last place.

I still think Kimi is the best driver on the grid, so I am expecting the last half of the 2007 F1 season to be even better than the first. Will Lewis continue his podium streak? Will Kimi who has won the most races this year continue his pace? Will Fernando get upset by being overtaken by Lewis and switch teams next year? We will have to wait and see.

Bmw CS Concept

Rob Good: This vehicle is said to be based on the next generation 7 series, so you can imagine how long it will be. It is also very wide at over 79 inches. The new 7 is expected to have up to 700 HP and the CS concept is expected to have up to 600 rubber melting hp to propel the vehicle from 0-60 in the 4 second range.

I think the CS looks a little like the Dodge Charger in the front which is different. I am not to keen on the large holes in the rear bumper for the exhaust outlets though. Good to see BMW coming up with new vehicles.... Roll em out.

What do you think?

2008 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500KR

Rob Good: With the introduction of the 2008 Ford Shelby GT500KR model at the New York auto show, Ford and Shelby will have unveiled four Mustang variations in a little over one year. Bring it on I say.

The GT500KR will be easily the most powerful of a bunch that also includes the 500-horsepower GT500 and the 319-hp Shelby GT, as well as the limited-edition Shelby GT-H produced for use in Hertz rental fleets. Tried to reserve one for a trip I am taking to Hawaii in June, but they are already reserved for that time....

The GT500KR revives a name last used 40 years ago. It will be powered by a version of the standard GT500's supercharged 5.4-liter V8 that makes about 40 hp more. That would bring the total to 540 hp, although Ford is not yet ready to commit to that number officially. Lets make it 100 more HP to give the Viper a run for the money.

Whatever the specific increase turns out to be, it comes from the Ford Racing Power Upgrade Pack, which includes a cold-air intake and a louder low-restriction exhaust. The KR should also feel a bit faster thanks to recalibrated ignition timing and electronic throttle settings, which promise quicker throttle response which is just what is needed.

The engine will be bolted to the same Tremec six-speed manual transmission as used for the regular GT500, although the KR version gets a shift linkage with 25 percent shorter throws and a big, white ball on the shift lever. The KR also gets a boost in acceleration from a shorter, 3.73:1 final-drive ratio (in place of GT500's final-drive ratio of 3.31:1).

More aggressive dampers and springs along with stiffer anti-roll bars and a strut-tower brace, all unique to the KR, should help provide for entertaining handling and a pretty hard-core ride. The production version will come with 18-inch wheels and not the shiny 20-inchers of the show car pictured here. Although the smaller wheels likely will have "Shelby" engraved on the rim, just as these show-car wheels do.

The shape of the bulging hood is a deliberate retro touch, with two long, narrow air intakes up front, just like the original '68 model. It's a decidedly modern interpretation, though. It's constructed of carbon composite (Ford expects that you'll be able to see the weave texture through the paint on production versions), and has two stainless-steel hood latches, where pins would have gone on a '68 GT500KR.

Only 1,000 KRs will be built (with final fitting done at Shelby's facility in Las Vegas), so collectors will surely be lining up, as well as ponying up a considerable amount of money. The KR should list for about $50,000, although we'd be shocked if you could get one for less than $70,000. Unlike the '68 model, no convertible version will be available.

One could also choose to simply build a KR for oneself. All of the mechanical upgrade parts will be available from Ford Racing or Shelby at the same time as the genuine KRs go on sale. The only piece currently not planned to be sold separately is the carbon hood, but with some imagination someone resourceful could probably get their hands on one.

This car looks good and is going to be one fast Stang.... I love the modern muscle car wars that are going on at the moment.... I will admit that even though it is a Ford, I want one.

Mercedes Benz AMG CLK63 Black series

Rob Good: The new CLK 63 AMG Black Series which has been unvieled at the New York motor show is based on the Official F1™ Safety Car. This is the road version of the high performance AMG vehicle that has been the Formula One safety since 2006. The coupe, optimized for the racing circuit, is powered by an in house AMG 6.3-liter V8 with its performance boosted to 373 kW/507 hp and 630 Newton meters of torque. A plus handling is assured by the sophisticated AMG threaded suspension with 19-inch AMG forged wheels, new steering and the generously dimensioned AMG high-performance brake system with composite disks. When you look at it, the CLK 63 AMG Black Series clearly shows its close similarities the Official F1™ Safety Car: its imposing front apron with large cooling intakes, flared wheel arches, diffusor-type rear apron and carbon-fiber airflow breakaway edge, all demonstrate the car’s sporting pedigree.

The new CLK 63 AMG Black Series output has been upgraded by 19 kW/26 hp over the standard CLK63 to 373 kW/507 hp, and the Black Series accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 4.3 seconds which is 0.3 seconds faster than the standard model. The top speed (electronically limited) is 300 km/h. Fun fun.

Wonder if Mr Giltrap will be taking delivery of one?

Rolls Royce Phantom Convertible

Rob Good: The long-awaited Phantom Drophead Coupé has been released. This Rolls-Royce’s first such car since the Corniche of 2002 and was formally unveiled at the Detroit Motor Show.

It’s no surprise that the Drophead Coupé is a spectacular feat of engineering and design. Clearly a development of the current Phantom, the new two-door, four-seat convertible nevertheless uses 1300 newly-developed parts, including a number of features first seen on 100EX, the experimental model shown by Rolls-Royce in 2004. Immediately noticeable are the brushed steel bonnet and A-pillar, plus the teak decking for the rear hood cover.

Front opening coach doors have been homologated for the new car and add considerably to the ease of access to the rear seat, as well as to the overall aesthetics. Unique to Rolls-Royce, the doors dramatically transform the Phantom Drophead Coupé’s looks, giving a side profile reminiscent of classic sports cars of the 1960s. They are also important in aiding the overall stiffness of the body, as the rear hinged doors allow for an uninterrupted A-pillar.

Power is supplied by the same 6.75-litre naturally-aspirated V12 found in the current Phantom, giving a 0-60mph time of 5.7 seconds.

Production of the new car will start in the summer of 2007, hand-built alongside the Phantom at Rolls-Royce Motor Cars’ manufacturing plant at Goodwood.

The car is a beauty. I particularly like the color they choose in these photos. I am guessing that the new Rolls Royce will be close to $400,000 when they arrive. Beverly Hills, Palm Springs and Miami are tipped to be the best markets in the US for this car.....
Now all they need is a turbo charger or two and close to 600 HP. :-)

Fisker Artega GT

Rob Good: This is the new Artega GT Coupe which has been showcased at the Geneva Motor Show. It is equipped with a VW-derived 3.6L V6 and power will be about 300 hp. That isn't very much HP, but this Fisker isn't very big. It is 13 feet long and 6 feet wide, the Artega is about the same size as a Mazda MX-5 Miata and at less than four feet tall it is about the same height as a Lamborghini Gallardo. Top speed of the Artega GT Coupe is estimated at 165 mph which is up there.

Henrik Fisker helped design many of the current Aston Martins on the road today which makes every future vehicle he pens worth mentioning. The Fisker Tramonto and Latigo CS are great looking vehicles, but their basic shape and stance were borrowed from the Mercedes Benz SL and the BMW 6 series. The Artega GT Coupe is definitely a departure from what Fisker has done in the past, but it just isn't ground-breaking. Production is expected to reach 500 units per year and the price tag should be around $100,000.

Looking good...

www.f1grandprixmanager.com

Rob Good: If you are into F1 and want to try your hand as a F1 boss, then join up now. I have played this game for the last 3 years and it is a lot of fun.