Nissan Esflow Concept

It may be a concept, but the Nissan ESFLOW electric sports car proves it's possible to remain environmentally sympathetic without having to give up the joy of driving.
It looks like a sports car, handles like a sports car and performs like one too. But Nissan ESFLOW Concept is different to every other sports car yet built: it's electric. Using technology pioneered in the award-winning Nissan LEAF, the EV concept shows that driving can still be as much fun tomorrow as it is today.
Nissan has a reputation for creating some of the most exhilarating sports cars on the market. Nissan has also developed the world's first practical Zero Emission family car, the Nissan LEAF.

Now Nissan has put that expertise together. It has captured the excitement of a sports car and the environmental benefits of an electric vehicle and blended them into one dramatic two-seater concept: ESFLOW.
Nissan ESFLOW Concept has been created from the ground up as a pure electric vehicle, to give an idea how a Zero Emission sports car of the future might look. Living ecologically has often been seen as an act of austerity - to save one's environmental conscience sacrifices must be made. ESFLOW is here to address that misconception.
Owning an ecologically sound car does not have to come at the expense of driving enjoyment. The briefest glance at the Nissan ESFLOW Concept is enough to tell you what kind of car it is: a long bonnet leading into a steeply raked, wrap around windscreen, the compact cabin placing the occupants bang on the car's centre of gravity, hunched arches over ultra-low profile tyres wrapped around six spoke wheels. ESFLOW is unmistakably a sports car, and those in the know will recognize its heritage - hints of classic and contemporary Nissan sports cars abound.
Vitally, ESFLOW is not an existing ICE (internal combustion engine) powered vehicle that has been adapted to run on electricity, but a sports car that's been designed from the outset as a Zero Emission vehicle. This means that Nissan's forward thinking designers have had free rein to place the power train and batteries in the optimum positions to benefit the car's handling and performance and enhancing the thrill of driving.
The Car
The Nissan ESFLOW Concept is based on existing technology, implemented in innovative ways. An attractive, head turning composite body covers an aluminium chassis, incorporating its own roll cage. The powertrain unit, which employs the same technologies installed in the Nissan LEAF, is tuned to offer a sporty driving experience.
The Powertrain
Nissan ESFLOW Concept is rear-wheel drive and it runs on two motors. The car's graceful proportions allow the twin electric motors to be placed above the axis of the rear wheels, in a mid-ship position,. These motors independently control the left and right wheels, and so the torque is optimized to ensure outstanding vehicle stability and control as well as efficient power regeneration. The motors produce enough torque in an instant for it to reach a 100kph in under 5 seconds.
Power for the motors comes from the same laminated lithium-ion battery packs used in the Nissan LEAF, but in ESFLOW the packs are located along the axis of the front and rear wheels. This centralizes the mass of the car, and thus its rotation point, close to the driver's hips. These cleverly positioned batteries enable the car to travel over 240km on one charge.
The Chassis

An aluminium chassis has been built around the drive train, taking full advantage of the opportunities that Zero Emission electric propulsion provides. Power cells are incorporated in such a way that they benefit ESFLOW's strength and poise, not detract from them. Indeed, unlike a conventional fuel tank, batteries do not get lighter as they provide energy, so the car's weight distribution remains constant throughout a drive.
The high waistline afforded by the Nissan ESFLOW Concept's classic sports car proportions allows strong, yet unobtrusive roll bars incorporated in to the structure behind the seats to safely take the entire load of the car in the event of a roll over, negating the need for obtrusive, thick, reinforced A-pillars and the blind spots they inevitably create.
This almost unobstructed view ahead will not be unfamiliar to fighter pilots, and just as such pilots speak of "strapping their planes on to their backs", we hope ESFLOW owners will also feel the car to be an extension of their bodies, reacting to their slightest whims. The driver must be at the centre of the sports car both physically and metaphorically.
The Body
The Nissan ESFLOW Concept is undoubtedly an attractive car. Crisp, clean lines not only convey the purity of its sporting potential, but suggest the clarity of electric power. The colour scheme chosen for the concept car is inspired by glaciers - highly reflective solidified liquid with blue tints in its shadows. Like its ZEV concept forebears and contemporary stable mate the ESFLOW's headlights and Nissan emblem are tinted cool blue. The six spoke wheels contain blue carbon inserts while the same material adorns the side sill, roof mounted lip spoiler and lower rear bumper.
Blue LEDs accentuate the futuristic lights slashed into the bodywork both front and rear. Where the Nissan LEAF's protrusive headlights are used to guide airflow around the door mirrors, this is not needed on Nissan ESFLOW Concept as the mirrors have been replaced with minute rear view cameras at the base of its A-pillars. The ESFLOW's front lights do protect a secret of their own however: flip out charging points built in to the air ducts beneath.
The Interior
Ecological minimalism need not come at the expense of luxury. The cabin of the Nissan ESFLOW Concept is clean and open and weight saving has been a priority throughout its design, but it is still a comfortable and pleasant place to sit. By far the heaviest components in modern cars' interiors are the steel framed, thickly upholstered and increasingly motorized seats. In ESFLOW the seats are sculpted into the rear bulkhead of the car, negating the need for a heavy frame. This of course means that they are immobile, but this is of no consequence as the fly-by-wire steering and pedals adjust electrically to the best spot to suit each individual driver's size and preferred driving position.
The seats themselves are upholstered in gold leather and perforated gold suede while the doors are trimmed in dark blue leather and suede. The blue and gold motif, the colour of sparks, is continued across the dashboard, which is also adorned with silver carbon trim, and features four multifunction illuminated LCD displays.
The Driver
Daniel, an ESFLOW owner, works in tech, but lives for the weekend. On Friday night after work, he gets behind the wheels of his ESFLOW which instantly links with his pocket PDA and determines the fastest route to his girlfriend's home. Finding street side parking is a synch as the Nissan ESFLOW Concept's compact dimensions allow it to slip in to the narrowest of spaces. On Saturday he drives to a popular club to exhibit his DJ skills and his friends are impressed by his cool EV sports car.
On Sunday he drives through the mountains for leisure. ESFLOW's superb weight distribution and unobstructed view ahead enables him to effortlessly nail every apex, every time. His descent from the mountains is more relaxed and he allows the ESFLOW to overrun on the long sweeping curves, turning the potential energy he and the car gained climbing up the gradients back in to electrical energy he can use once he hits the roads around Barcelona.
As his ESFLOW sips energy in its garage Daniel prepares himself for the week ahead, batteries fully recharged.

Nissan 370Z

Nissan 370Z has been given a series of subtle but significant changes designed to underline the car's status as one of the most exciting pure bred sports cars on the market and to cement its place as a dynamic leader.
The principal changes are to the chassis of both the Coupé and Roadster versions, to enhance ride comfort and high-speed handling. A new tyre pressure monitoring system enhances safety still further while a rear view camera integrated into the Nissan Premium Connect satellite navigation system makes reversing easier and safer, too.

Other changes include improved isolation of road noise on the Coupé, while automatic versions of both Coupé and Roadster now have a revised 'Snow' setting for enhanced grip when setting off on ice and snow.
"The changes to the 370Z are part of Nissan's programme of continual development to all its products. Perhaps most significantly, the fine tuning of the chassis has been developed in Europe for Europe," said Simon Thomas, Senior Vice President Sales & Marketing, Nissan in Europe.
"The Model Year 2011 370Z takes one of the most popular sports cars on the market and make it even more fun to drive."
Model Year 2011 Nissan 370Z in detail
Average speeds in Europe are higher than anywhere else in the world. At the same time, we have some of the most demanding roads on the planet... and some of the poorest road surfaces.
It's a combination of problems relished by chassis engineers from Nissan Technical Centre Europe (NTCE). Fine tuning the Nissan 370Z chassis - double wishbones at the front and a multi-link rear - to suit European tastes has centred on the dampers which have been retuned to enhance ride comfort and high speed handling.
The changes provide significantly improved vertical wheel control resulting in a flatter ride on all surfaces and improved comfort on motorway/autobahn surfaces. In addition, high-speed stability is enhanced with better body control while road noise is better isolated thanks to changes to underbody insulation.
The advanced seven-speed automatic option now has a snow mode. When is use, the car sets off in second gear rather than first to avoid loss of traction. The system also regulates engine revs at low speeds to prevent wheel spin on ice or snow.

Additions to equipment levels include the arrival of a rear-view parking camera as part of the Nissan Premium Connect satellite navigation option and the standard fitment of a tyre pressure monitoring system. The latter is integrated into the dashboard computer display and operates a warning light should tyre pressures fall.
In all other respects, both the Nissan 370Z Coupé and Nissan 370Z Roadster are just as exciting and stylish as the cars launched two years ago.
Styling
Following a lead that can be traced all the way back to the 240Z of 40 years ago, 370Z's styling is that of a classic sports car layout featuring a long bonnet, compact cabin, short overhangs and a truncated rear.
Nissan 370Z measures 4245mm from bumper to bumper and sits on a 2550mm wheelbase, exactly 100mm shorter than its predecessor's. At 1315mm tall, it's lower by 10mm while it is wider by 30mm at 1845mm. To ensure the lower roofline doesn't impinge on interior headroom, the seating position has also been lowered, resulting in a lower centre of gravity.
At the same time, the torsional rigidity of the body has increased by up to 30 per cent compared to the 350Z, notably at the front where a bracing bar has been mounted on top of the suspension turrets. Extensive use of aluminium - it's now used for the doors and rear hatch as well as the bonnet - plus other weight saving measures have seen more than 32kg trimmed from the car's all-up mass, despite the addition of extra safety, environmental and luxury equipment.
Engine and transmission
At the heart of the Nissan 370Z is its exceptional 3.7-litre V6 engine. A development of the unit that powered the 350Z, the all-alloy 24-valve twin cam not only develops more power and torque but is also more response, more refined and more fuel efficient.
The addition of VVEL (Variable Valve Event and Lift) technology helps deliver electrifying performance, the engine developing 328 PS and an impressive 366Nm of torque. It is coupled to a short throw six-speed sports manual gearbox or a seven-speed automatic.
When in S-Mode, the manual transmission features Nissan's Synchro Rev Control to ensures perfect rev matching when the driver is changing gear, delivering perfect 'heel and toe' changes every time.
Sensors on the clutch and on the gear lever itself monitor driver actions to blip the throttle on down shifts and maintain constant engine revs when changing up. As the sensors detect clutch pedal movement, the SRC system is primed, coming into operation when the gear lever is moved. By matching this information to vehicle speed, SRC knows whether the driver is slowing for a corner or changing up through the 'box.
Downshift Rev Matching is a feature on the automatic gearbox, too, which also has Adaptive Shift Control which learns a driving style and adjust shift patterns accordingly.
Wheels, tyres, steering and brakes
Grip is provided by purpose designed Yokohama Advan sport tyres, in different sizes front and rear. The front tyres are 225/50 R18, with wider 245/45 R18 at the rear. Available as optional equipped are larger RAYs lightweight forged alloy wheels shod with 245/40 R19 and 275/35 R19 Bridgestone Potenza tyres.
A viscous limited slip differential is standard along with Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) with combines electronically operated traction and stability systems to reduce engine torque and/or apply individual wheel braking if needed. For track day use, VDC can be deactivated via a dashboard switch.
The rack and pinion steering system has also been revised to provide more communicative feedback and better response around the dead ahead position. Now with electric speed sensitive assistance, the steering delivers greater agility around town and enhanced stability at motorway speeds.
Large ventilated discs can be found front and rear - 355mm (14.0 inch) at the front and 350mm (13.8 inch) behind - framed by four piston aluminium callipers at the front and twin piston callipers behind. The dark silver coloured callipers are inscribed with the Nissan name.
A full complement of electronic safety aids includes the latest generation ABS with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA).
Equipment
Generous standard equipment levels can be found on 370Zs and includes an engine Start button with Nissan's Intelligent Key, 18-inch cast alloy wheels, sports brakes and a viscous limited slip differential. Seats are electrically adjustable and audio/phone controls are mounted on the steering wheel while Bluetooth connectivity is a standard.
The GT Pack versions add heated and ventilated leather/suede seats, a premium BOSE sound system, cruise control and 19-inch forged alloy wheels. The GT Pack also incorporates Synchro Rev Control technology on the manual version along with Uphill Start Support to ease hill starts.
Among the principal options are Nissan's advanced hard drive-based Connect Premium satellite navigation and music storage system. The 40GB hard drive can store much wider map coverage of Europe at the same time as offering 10GB storage for music files downloaded from personal CD collections. The system incorporates a high-resolution dashboard screen, DVD functionality and iPod USB connectivity and now includes a reversing camera. Also optionally available is Nissan's pioneering Scratch Shield paint, which 'heals' minor scratches to keep the bodywork looking like new.
Nissan 370Z Roadster
By starting design of the Nissan 370Z Roadster at the same time as work began on the Coupé, Nissan designers have been able to ensure the soft-top version has a sophisticated silhouette with better, more natural, integration of the hood into the overall design.
The distinctive result echoes the 'Z character' with a blend of sweeping curves and aggressively short overhangs while the shape of the roof itself flows more naturally into the rear of the car when the roof is in place.
When lowered, it tucks away under a body-coloured hard tonneau cover which also helps to reduce wind turbulence at speed, allowing occupants of the 'double cockpit' to enjoy fully the sounds and sensations of open air performance motoring.
Other design cues already seen on the Coupe have transferred to the Nissan 370Z Roadster. They include the distinctive boomerang LED rear and arrowhead front lights, while familiar 'Z' features such as the vertical door handles, twin tail pipes and 'Z' badges in the side repeaters are also present.
Inside, the driver-focused cabin also boasts many features now synonymous with the Z, such as an engine Push Start button, floor hinged throttle pedal, centrally placed tachometer and three separate hooded dials - now including an oil temperature gauge - sitting centrally on the top of the dashboard and angled towards the driver.
The Nissan 370Z Roadster's roof is fully automatic with no requirement to latch it manually into place. The roof can be lowered at walking speeds and can also be operated from outside the car, by pressing and holding the door-locking button for three seconds. It takes just 20 seconds for the roof to be raised and locked into place or lowered out of sight beneath its tonneau.
The fabric hood has been given a smooth inner lining covering the frame and reducing noise levels, while the system uses a new hydraulic pump that's silent in operation in place of the electric motor used previously.
"At launch, both the Coupé and Roadster were highly acclaimed for their combination of excitement and style. The subtle suspension changes developed specially to meet European demands and tastes - not to mention the enhanced equipment levels - make the 2011 Nissan 370Z more desirable than ever," said Thomas.

Ford Fusion

The 2010 Ford Fusion is set to shake up the cut-throat mid-size sedan segment when it goes on sale early next year, bringing an all-new hybrid that will deliver the best fuel economy of any sedan in America, unsurpassed 4-cylinder gasoline fuel economy, more power, class-exclusive technologies including a blind spot detection and warning system and Ford SYNC, more total passenger and luggage capacity than the Toyota Camry, plus proven quality and reliability that has been recognized by the top consumer groups and magazines.

"With the new Ford Fusion, we are offering consumers more choice, even better fuel economy and the leading quality and reliability that they have come to expect," said Derrick Kuzak, Ford's group vice president of Global Product Development. "But that isn't all - we weren't satisfied with just matching the competition in the segment, we wanted to give consumers even more by delivering engaging driving dynamics and technologies that make the in-car experience more comfortable and connected."
Designed to stand out
Ford's attention to detail with the freshened Ford Fusion begins with a new design that gives the car a look that is both sportier and more upscale as well as improved aerodynamics. The car's newly designed front end, including a powerfully domed hood, and new headlamps, grille and larger fog-lamp area further enhance the sporty nature of the 2010 Ford Fusion. Aerodynamic enhancements and new underbody shields further boost Fusion's fuel economy.

Bentley Continental Flying Spur Series 51

Series 51 represents Bentley design at its most vibrant. It allows customers of both Continental Flying Spur and Flying Spur Speed to order 'off the peg' from an innovative and exclusive range of recommended combinations created by Bentley's colour and trim designers at the company's headquarters in Crewe, England, as Dirk van Braeckel, Bentley's director of design comments:
"The Series 51 design concept is inspired by the spirit of the inaugural Bentley styling department in Crewe established by the gifted John Blatchley, who shaped the original and iconic 1950s Bentley Continentals. Today, it provides for a virtually bespoke ordering service due to the thousands of configurations available through Bentley's expansive colour and trim catalogue."

First offered on the Continental GT and GTC in 2009, Bentley's colour and trim team has now created no fewer than14 unique Series 51 designs for the Continental Flying Spur and Flying Spur Speed, enabling customers to tailor their cars to their individual tastes as Melinda June-Jenkins, manager of colour and trim, explains:
"Each Series 51 Flying Spur is instantly recognisable - most notably in the cabin area - where the colour and trim team has created a wide selection of three-tone interiors demonstrating the full potential of the company's vast colour palette."
For Series 51 designs, the Bentley styling team operates on a 'rule of three' principle to create complex but harmonising colour schemes of depth and beauty, inspired by a customer's simple choice of three contrasting colours. With luxurious wood veneers and leather hides as the main canvas, the colour and trim specialists begin with a main interior colour (typically a darker shade) and then select a second insert colour to provide an eye-catching contrast. A critical skill is identifying the third 'accent' colour for the stitching and piping.
The selection of wood veneers or aluminium panels for the dashboard either complements the overall look or provides even greater contrast if the customer so desires.

Bentley has reserved the limited-edition Sapelli Pomelle veneer (which provides a rare, naturally occurring quilted effect in the wood) for the Series 51 Flying Spur and a range of further options, including Bentley's leather trimmed child seat and scatter cushions for the rear seats, may also be specified to further complement the exclusive design.
Whilst the 14 options for the Series 51 Flying Spur provide customers with the opportunity to select some of Bentley's most eye-catching design work, the colour and trim team is also more than happy to create even more bespoke designs, knowing they have only shown a fraction of the possibilities, as Melinda-June Jenkins explains:
"One of the most exciting aspects of the Series 51 designs is the feedback from Bentley customers and their desire to explore further what we can offer. Series 51 provides just a starting point and now we are creating designs which make an even stronger and more personal statement."
Striking range of Series 51 duo-tone paint options
The same imaginative use of colour is extended to the coachwork of all Series 51 Continental Flying Spurs. A range of striking John Blatchley-inspired duo-tone paint options, with one accent colour sweeping from the bonnet, over the roof and onto the bootlid, may be specified.
The paint range encompasses cool and crisp hues through to rich and fiery shades and everything in between with the Bentley colour and trim team recommending one of the three selected interior colours to complement and highlight the relationship between inside and out.
Bentley has also created a unique Series 51 graphite-finished nine-spoke, 19-inch sports alloy wheel, while twin Series 51 wing badges, positioned behind the front wheel arches, complete the bespoke look.
As a further sporting touch, all the latest Continental Flying Spurs, including Series 51 models, may now be specified with distinctive blue brake callipers and front wing vents styled by Bentley's head of exterior design, Raul Pires. These sleek vents, positioned to the rear of the front wheel arches, are set into a uniquely tooled wing panel and feature a black or chrome mesh finish.
Advanced and intuitive touchscreen infotainment technology
All 2012 model year Bentley Continental Flying Spur and Supersports coupe and convertible models are now equipped with a new, highly-advanced touchscreen infotainment system that provides rich map imagery and a 30GB on-board hard drive.
An 8-inch screen displays the car's audio system, telephone, ride and comfort settings as well as the very latest navigation system, which uses both an in-car hard-disc drive and a DVD player to access route data. It also utilises dynamic navigation to avoid heavy traffic spots, locates destinations using geo-tagged photos from an SD memory card and is Google Maps-compatible for most markets.
The infotainment system, with 7-digit postcode entry, combines touchscreen controls and classic Bentley knurled rotary switches to offer instant usability and crystal-clear feedback. The graphic interface of the screen was specified by Bentley's interior design team to ensure its visuals are wholly in keeping with the classic, handcrafted interior. The 'knurled' switches on the screen for example, are 'virtual' echoes of the knurled texture of the jewel-like rotary switches below.
The latest Continental Flying Spur and Supersports models also benefit from telephone and music player connectivity, digital television (where available) and DVD movie playback. Music can be played and controlled directly from an iPod as well as from a six-disc CD changer, SD card reader or directly from the car's hard-disc drive, which can store up to 15GB of music.
The new infotainment system is complemented by a new driver information panel (DIP) located in the main instrument cluster. The new wide-screen DIP employs TFT technology and enhanced graphics provide the driver with clear and easily accessible information about a wide range of car systems. These include the setting of head lamp 'coming home' controls, door locking and mirror functions while providing significantly improved control of such features as phone pairing and bluetooth media connectivity.
The new 2012 model year Continental Flying Spur, Flying Spur Speed and their Series 51 design options, together with the 2012 Supersports coupe and convertible models go on sale from March 2011.

Ferrari 599 SA Aperta

Ferrari is delighted to announce the presentation of the Ferrari 599 SA Aperta at the 2010 Paris International Motor Show. This is a special series model of which a strictly limited number of just 80 will be built. All have already been sold. Ferrari chose to build 80 SA Apertas in celebration of Pininfarina's 80th anniversary. The SA nomenclature also pays homage to both Sergio and Andrea Pininfarina whose company and work have been linked to the most successful road-going cars ever built at Maranello.
The Ferrari 599 SA Aperta is a true roadster which allows its occupants to enjoy the superlative emotions afforded by our signature front-engined V12 architecture in a completely open-top setting. In fact, it has just a light soft top designed to be resorted to only if the weather gets particularly bad. A low-slung windscreen and the fact that it crouches lower to the ground than our other models lend the SA Aperta an exceptionally aerodynamic sleekness. Its profile arches back from the A-post to two aerodynamic fins beautifully integrating the two roll-bars which themselves cleverly mimic the outline of the seats.

The chassis has been redesigned to deliver a standard of stiffness comparable to that of a closed berlinetta and there is a negligible weight difference also, thanks to work done on the chassis structure.
Thanks to the 670 CV engine beneath its bonnet, the SA Aperta beautifully embodies the sporty spirit of the Ferrari 599, incorporating Ferrari's most advanced technology to deliver absolutely benchmark performance and superb driving pleasure. Its interior too is stylishly sporty with particularly sophisticated materials, trim and colours used throughout. The virtually endless combinations available guarantee that each and every SA Aperta is absolutely unique.

Volvo Universe

At the 2011 Shanghai Auto Show, Volvo Car Corporation presents a Scandinavian Design masterpiece for customers with exquisite tastes. The 2011 Volvo Universe Concept is a large, luxurious sedan with a new human-centric design that praises the beautiful lines of classic Volvo models.
“The Volvo Universe Concept offers the world a sneak preview of what people can expect from our next top-of-the-line sedan,” says Stefan Jacoby, President and CEO of Volvo Car Corporation.

Volvo Car Corporation stands with its long-term strategy which is to be a successful, truly global company with products designed based on customers’ needs and lifestyle. “Scandinavian Design is about understanding and caring about people. Volvo Car Corporation aims to be the brand that best interprets what buyers of modern luxury cars want. The Volvo Universe Concept has been designed to spark a subconscious desire and a feeling of eternal beauty. It moves towards the future with its coupe-like roofline and contemporary, solid rear, but it also echoes Volvo’s proud heritage by borrowing design cues from classic models of the past.”

“Just like fine luxury goods, this design feels handcrafted and durable enough to stand the test of time,” says Peter Horbury, Vice President Design at Volvo Car Corporation.

Alfa Romeo Giulietta 2011

Land Rover Range Rover Black

"The Land Rover Range Rover Autobiography Black represents the very best Range Rover has to offer and is a fitting tribute to a vehicle which has consistently set the highest standards for all-terrain performance, luxury and design for the last 40 years." Phil Popham, Land Rover Managing Director
The ultimate incarnation of the Range Rover, the Land Rover Range Rover Autobiography Black 40th Anniversary Limited Edition, is quite simply the last word in bespoke vehicles.

With a unique finish in Barolo Black, the exterior also features 20-inch alloy wheels, Diamond Turned, a unique front grille with Titan grille mesh, a bright chrome grille 'U' edge and black grille surround. Side vents have a new mesh set off by bright chrome bars and a black vent surround. There are body coloured door handles and of course, the tailgate badge, 'Autobiography Black'.
Inside, there's a choice of the standard colourway in Jet, or two colourways unique to the Land Rover Range Rover Autobiography Black - Jet and Ivory, or Jet and Pimento. The Autobiography Black logo is discretely repeated throughout the interior where it is embossed on the rear seat armrest and appears on the four unique, Grand Black door veneers. Front door sill tread plates are illuminated with the words 'Range Rover' and there's a half wood Grand Black steering wheel. Petrol models also offer gearknob veneers.
"At the top of the Range, the new Land Rover Range Rover Autobiography Black 40th Anniversary Limited Edition offers customers the option of complete exclusivity with unique colourway combinations as well as striking interior and exterior design features. Around 700 will be made, emphasising the exclusivity of this limited edition." Design Director, Gerry McGovern
No detail has been overlooked in ensuring this is the most special Range Rover in the marque's 40 year history. Even the key fob and driver's handbook carry the Autobiography Black logo.

Kawasaki ZX-6R

Kawasaki signaled to launch a super sport “2010 Ninja ZX6R” in Indonesia.
On the launching event of Kawasaki Edge, Kawasaki has introduced the middleweight sport bike that the first time was introduced in 1995.
Ninja ZX6R 2010 would be equipped with engine capacity 599 cc,16 valves, 6 strokes , max speed 200 km/hours on max torque 65.68 Nm 10.000 rpm.

The price prediction of New Ninja ZX6R 2010 would be about 220-230 million rupiah.

Land Rover Freelander 2

The 2011 Land Rover Freelander 2 model range, on sale in the UK from the end of September 2010, benefits from a new 2.2-litre diesel engine available with either 150PS or 190PS outputs, a new look exterior plus interior alterations including new instrument dials and a new Premium Pack option.
Land Rover's new turbo diesel engine is available in the 4WD TD4 150PS model featuring a manual transmission and intelligent Stop/Start technology as standard (an automatic gearbox without Stop/Start is available as a cost option), or the new SD4 model delivering 190PS (available in automatic transmission only).

This new engine is quieter, more efficient and both derivatives have 20Nm more torque than the outgoing engine. This means the 2011 Freelander 2 offers improved engine response and more mid-range strength for towing. CO2 emissions have been significantly reduced to 165g/km and 185g/km respectively with corresponding fuel economy benefits.
However, despite reductions in consumption and emissions, there has been no compromise in performance. The flagship 190PS Land Rover Freelander SD4 accelerates from rest to 60mph in 8.7 seconds with an increased top speed of 118mph. The Land Rover Freelander 150PS TD4 manual and automatic versions match the performance of their predecessors.
As well as being upgraded from EU4 to EU5, both versions have a new variable geometry turbocharger and have been extensively re-calibrated to deliver new levels of power, meet emissions regulations and reduce CO2 emissions. They are fitted with a catalysed diesel particulate filter as standard and are now compatible with 10 per cent biodiesel rather than 5 per cent.

As an addition to the Land Rover Freelander 2 range, Land Rover will also offer customers a 2WD derivative, available in the UK from January 2011. This will be called the Land Rover Freelander 2 eD4 and it will be the most efficient Land Rover ever produced, with fuel consumption of 47.2mpg combined, and CO2 emissions of just 158g/km.
"The new Land Rover Freelander 2 eD4 moves Land Rover into the hugely popular and fiercely contested two wheel-drive SUV market," said Land Rover managing director Phil Popham. "The European market for two-wheel drive SUVs represents 23 percent of the segment and we intend to compete strongly here.
"A 2WD option is just one way in which we are developing our vehicles' efficiency whilst adding to the Land Rover range and expanding our appeal to a broader group of customers. We will continue to make the 'world's finest all-terrain vehicles' for those customers who require 4WD but will also now offer an alternative."
This groundbreaking Land Rover Freelander 2 eD4 is powered by the new 2.2-litre turbo diesel engine, delivering 150PS. It is only available with a six-speed manual transmission featuring Stop/Start technology as standard.
The exterior of the latest Land Rover Freelander 2 gets a new look for 2011. Marked out by a new front bumper assembly incorporating new front fog lap bezels, a new front grille finish, improved headlights and tail lamps, new full width tailgate appliqué and new 18- or 19-inch alloy wheel styles. There are three new colour schemes for 2011 Kosrae Green, Baltic Blue and Fuji White.
Inside the cabin, Land Rover's design team have revised the instrument dials, and there are four new seat styles with the option of a Premium Pack that includes Windsor Leather upholstery, an 8/6 way electric seat, plus premium carpet mats and covered centre stowage.

Land Rover Discovery 4 Armoured

Why do people buy SUVs? Some do it for the cargo and passenger capacities. Some buy 'em because they like to sit high. But some buy sport-utes because, even though the most off-road action they'll ever see is a muddy parking lot, they want to know they can handle anything that comes along. But what if rough terrain or heavy snowfall isn't your biggest concern? What if you're more worried about being attacked by armed assailants? Well then... you're either living in a pretty nasty neighborhood, you're pretty damn important or you're just plain paranoid. In any event, this is the vehicle you'll need: the new Land Rover Discovery 4 Armoured.

Developed with the security consultants at Centigon, the secure LR4 can withstand machine gun fire, 33 pounds of dynamite or even a couple of hand grenades tossed underneath. Unfortunately the added steel plating necessary to withstand such a barrage adds considerable heft to an already hefty vehicle, pushing the curb weight up to over 7,800 pounds.

Land Rover Defender X-Tech

Land Rover launches the new 2011 Land Rover Defender X-Tech Limited Edition at the 2011 Brussels Motorshow.
The Land Rover Defender X-Tech offers raw and edgy style, with the class-leading all-terrain capability you would expect of this motoring icon.

The exterior is available in Zermatt Silver, enhanced by a contrasting Santorini Black finish to the roof and wheel arches. And, for the first time, this Defender is fitted with unique gloss black 16 inch Saw Tooth alloy wheels, to create a sense of raw utilitarianism.
The interior is available in Ebony and the seats offer the addition of leather side bolsters, for a more refined finish.
The Land Rover Defender X-Tech is available in the 90 Hard Top Commercial derivative, with the full range of accessories also available to enhance capability and individuality.
Powered by the 2.4 litre common-rail diesel engine, this Defender boasts fuel efficiency and performance with 360Nm torque for effortless towing and enhanced on-road performance.
The Land Rover Defender X-Tech Limited Edition will go on sale from March 2011 starting at £24,995

Nissan Murano

Nissan North America, Inc. (NNA) released information and photography of the new, refined 2011 Nissan Murano, which is set to go on sale at Nissan dealers nationwide in mid-October 2010. The second generation Nissan Murano, introduced in 2009, now offers a refreshed grille and bumper design, new taillights, a new 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheel design and a number of interior and content refinements - all intended to keep Nissan Murano's visually distinctive styling fresh and exciting.

Also for 2011, two new models have been added to the lineup, SV FWD and SV AWD, for a total of eight models, providing Nissan Murano buyers with the widest range ever of equipment and features to match their exact needs and budgets. Other changes include the addition of one new exterior color, Graphite Blue, and a new wood grain hue on Murano LE models.
"With its contemporary exterior design, 'mobile suite' interior, advanced technology and refined, premium driving feel, Nissan Murano stands out as a modern crossover SUV like no other," said Al Castignetti, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division, Nissan North America, Inc. "With the enhancements for 2011, there are even more reasons for consumers to put Nissan Murano on the top of their shopping lists."
All 2011 Muranos feature a standard VQ-series 3.5-liter DOHC V6 rated at 260 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque on regular unleaded gasoline, and an advanced Xtronic CVT™ that provides a sporty and smooth driving experience. Nissan Murano is available in front-wheel drive or with an Intuitive All-Wheel Drive system, and all Muranos come with Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) and Traction Control System (TCS) standard. Murano is built on Nissan's proven "D" platform, which provides a solid foundation and lightweight suspension components, dual flow path shock absorbers and a twin-orifice speed-sensitive power steering system.
The most striking visual element of the 2011 Murano is once again its dramatic body, which imparts a "modern art" feel while still maintaining its distinctive "Murano-ness." The front end features a bold grille with new, revised design and wide front headlights, a wide hood that sweeps into the bodylines, powerful wheel arches and an aggressive stance with available 20-inch wheels. Nissan Murano's rear end features a unique rear glass shape, integrated rear roof spoiler, large redesigned rear LED taillights and dual exhaust outlets with chrome finishers.
Nissan Murano is also offered with an available dual panel power sliding glass moonroof with 2nd row skylight, adding to its open, airy interior feeling. Inside, Nissan Murano offers high levels of warmth and luxury - with available wood and aluminum accents, a 60/40 fold-flat rear seat with power return, heated front and rear seats, power liftgate and RearView Monitor.
Interior enhancements for 2011 include a new white meter color, new center stack colors and added equipment to various trim levels - driver's seat with power lumbar support (SV), RearView Monitor (SV), 7.0-inch color monitor (SV), auto dimming rearview mirror with compass and HomeLink® Universal Transceiver (SL) and heated steering wheel (SL). New audio and entertainment features range from the addition of standard iPod® connectivity and Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System to SV models to a Bose® audio system with nine speakers plus dual subwoofers for SL models. Other available technology includes an advanced touch screen Nissan Navigation System with 9.3GB Music Box™ hard drive.
The 2011 Nissan Murano is offered in eight well-equipped models: S FWD, S AWD, SV FWD, SV AWD, SL FWD, SL AWD, LE FWD and LE AWD.

Fiat Uno

The new Fiat Uno, a model bold on concepts and lines, comes to redefine the segment of compact cars. It is simply unique. One. Unique. Singular. Individual. This is how the dictionary defines the word "Uno". And this is how the new car from Fiat Automobile is.

The new Fiat Uno comes with all attributes that will make it a new success story. In addition to the new concept and bold lines, it enables an unprecedented level of customization in the Brazilian market. A new icon in the segment. With countless options from the factory and the dealer, the client can customize the car at his/her taste, with optional items and accessories, turning the new Uno into an extension of his/her own individuality.
However, behind the innovative look there is also a well-defined machine. It marks the premiere of two new engines - Fire 1.0 Evo and Fire 1.4 Evo, both Flex fuel - that incorporate modern technologies to ensure great performance with fuel saving and low level of emissions.

To formulate the concept of the new model and achieve its surprising shapes, the designers from the Fiat Style Center for Latin America and from the Fiat Style Center in Italy did not try to guess what the consumer wanted. On the contrary - first they talked to the client and only then they started creating the car. Open communication was adopted throughout the development, until the product clinics with the actual-size internal and external style models. This way, there was no room for error.

Volvo V60

The Volvo V60 makes its entry onto the car market with its sights firmly set on giving the all-new S60 sedan model a tough match over the title of "The Most Dynamic Volvo Model Ever".
"Many of the customers who had an advance look at the new V60 during the development process feel that its attitude is at least as sporty as that of the all-new S60," says Volvo Cars Design Director Peter Horbury.
No less than 90 percent of the annual Volvo V60 production of 50,000 cars will find European buyers.

"The typical sports wagon customer is an S60 buyer who would like some extra space and flexibility, but without the slightest compromise on sporty design and exciting driving properties," says Volvo Cars President and CEO Stephen Odell, and adds:
"The competition is razor-sharp and the customers in this segment know exactly what they want. That is why we have further boosted the interior's sense of exclusive quality and packed the car with safety- and comfort-related technical innovations. The result is a truly unique sports wagon, in total harmony with its sporty attitude."
Coupe rather than estate car
The pronounced wedge shape and the slim coupe-like roof line of the new Volvo V60 are accompanied by the shoulder profile along the car's sides, creating a gentle yet powerful double wave from the headlamps at the front to the tail lamps at the rear.

"From the design viewpoint the focus was on making the car as close to a coupe as possible, while retaining that handy extra space at the rear. Our sports wagon does not aim to compete with the traditional estate car. For the customer who wants a lot of load space, there is our V70 or XC70," says Örjan Sterner, head of exterior design for the new Volvo V60. He adds: "The dip in the middle of the double wave visually pushes the car down. This enhances the stance and makes the car look sleeker and lower. The sculpted bonnet and the short overhangs front and rear also emphasise the sports car feel."

Aston Martin Virage

Aston Martin introduces the new Aston Martin Virage - supremely elegant and powerful, yet juxtaposed as an understated sports car. The marque can now provide customers with a class-leading range, all with different characters, yet with the same unique Aston Martin soul and luxury.

Beautiful, dynamic and prestigious, the Aston Martin Virage combines outright sports car performance with luxury, comfort and refinement. The front mid-mounted V12 engine's torque delivery provides outstanding performance, coupled with the car's inherent agility and pe
rfect weight distribution delivering the ideal balance between outright sports car performance and trademark sporting luxury exemplified by modern Aston Martins.
Aston Martin CEO, Dr Ulrich Bez said: "100 years of automotive history has demonstrated that evolution delivers the best solutions in time. So it is with Virage; it is the next level of evolution in our VH architecture strategy and it does everything with the perfection that you would expect today. It is the perfect balance of opposites."

The Aston Martin Virage sits between the enduringly elegant DB9 and overtly sporting DBS, providing customers with a car that remains luxurious and understated but delivers increased performance and crucially performance that is always accessible for effortless driving.
Aston Martin's revered hand-built 6.0 litre V12 engine produces 490 bhp (365 kW/497 PS) and 570 nM (420 lb. Ft) of torque and through its carbon fibre prop shaft, is mated to a six-speed Touchtronic II automatic transmission mounted on the transaxle contributing to perfect 50:50 weight balance.
The Aston Martin Virage's dynamics have been tuned to deliver an engaging yet more refined driving experience, where the driver can extract the maximum performance from the car with greater ease. A newly developed Adaptive Damping System (ADS) intelligently 'reads' the road to provide optimum road holding, adapting to different conditions. The system now selects up to five different stiffness settings within normal mode, and a further five stiffer settings within sport mode.
Aiding driver control, a 'Sport' button on the facia allows the driver to select a sharper throttle response and faster gear changes while also holding the gears without automatically shifting up at the revolution limiter.
Aston Martin Virage will be delivered with Carbon Ceramic Matrix (CCM) brakes as standard - bucking the trend in this market - offering progressive and tremendous stopping power. Powerful, resistant to fade and much lighter than conventional cast-iron discs, the CCM braking system means that not only is the overall vehicle weight reduced, but the weight saving at each wheel means that a better balance between ride comfort and handling can be struck. Lower rotational mass also provides improved acceleration.
Aston Martin Virage capitalises on the technology from the DBS and unites it with the comfort and refinement found in the DB9 and Rapide. Aston Martin's own bonded aluminium 'VH' architecture that forms the backbone of the marque's sports cars, takes inspiration from the aerospace industry where weight reduction is the ultimate goal. Strong yet light, the inherent properties of modular aluminium lend themselves perfectly to an extremely rigid and versatile platform which allows the production of a Aston Martin Virage coupe and Volante.
The Aston Martin Virage sits low and wide asserting the power which lies beneath; single bi-xenon headlamps follow the lines of the car's flanks to give a more crisp and modern look from the front. A new aluminium metal front grille, inspired by the One-77, features five horizontal vanes which are chamfered creating an aerofoil profile. The new front bumper is pure and relieves the car of any visual complexities, contributing to the overall simplicity of design. The front wings distinguish the Aston Martin Virage from its stable mates housing a new modern interpretation of the Aston Martin iconic side strake housing six LEDs elegantly forming the side repeater. Aston Martin Virage's side sills carry the simplicity of the front bumper through to the rear diffuser which houses a body-coloured blade accentuating the width of the car.
As drivers and passengers open the signature swan wing doors, they are greeted by the aroma of seven hides of the finest Bridge of Weir leather expertly hand stitched by craftsmen. Inspiration has been taken from luxury leather goods to produce a pinstripe welt which flows down either side of the facia and along the seat and door, drawing your eye through the car. Each Aston Martin Virage will have 70 man hours of expert craftsmanship lavished on the interior alone to create the famous sophisticated Aston Martin interior. In all, over 200 man hours will be spent handcrafting the Virage at Aston Martin's global headquarters in Gaydon, Warwickshire, England as it becomes the tenth major production car to be built there in the space of less than eight years.
Simplicity runs throughout the car with the new fully integrated Satellite Navigation system that has been developed in conjunction with Garmin. The new system simplifies operation through the existing four-way joystick mounted on the facia. A new 6.5 inch high resolution display uses the latest graphics and maps to visually and aurally guide the driver to their destination.
Standard equipment includes heated seats (Sports seats only), cruise control, satellite navigation, Bluetooth telephone preparation and the powerful 700W Aston Martin Premium Audio System with Dolby® Pro Logic II® and full iPod® integration.
Performance
Sitting at the heart of any Aston Martin sports car is an evocative engine and no more so in the new Virage which adopts the famous hand-built 6.0 litre V12 which is assembled in Aston Martin's bespoke engine plant in Köln, Germany. Aston Martin technicians spend in excess of 20 hours building and testing every engine before sending it to Gaydon where it is mounted as far back in the Aston Martin Virage as possible to contribute to its perfect 50:50 weight balance.
The Aston Martin Virage engine produces 490 bhp (365 kW/497 PS) and 570 nM (420 lb. Ft) of torque and is identified from other V12s in the family with a black plenum. The plenum houses a new 'five pillar design' increasing the rigidity of the manifold delivering an improved sound quality. The V12 has been designed to deliver over 85% of Virage's peak torque at only 1,500 rpm providing for instant and crucially, real-world useable traction.
Aston Martin Product Development Director, Ian Minards explains: "The new Virage represents another landmark Aston Martin in the sporting GT class, combining luxury with performance. Our Engineering team has sought to balance the elements of contemporary design, strong performance credentials and driving fluidity. We have focused on the major building blocks of automotive performance and control, as well as the intricate details of operation, comfort and craftsmanship."
The Touchtronic II transmission features as standard, and contributes to Aston Martin Virage's refined power delivery making gear changes tangible yet effortless. Engineered in conjunction with ZF, the six-speed automatic has optimally placed ratios to remain quiet on motorway stretches and deliver an engaging response when driving spiritedly. Controlled through finely polished glass switches depicting P, R, N, D on the facia, the driver can engage automatic mode, and the intelligent control system will decide precisely the right time to change gear in order to achieve the smoothest ratio move and the optimum fuel economy.
In addition, the driver has the option of pulling either of the magnesium leather clad paddles to engage manual mode. Mounted on the steering column so that the driver can always easily locate either up or down, the manual mode gives the driver complete control.
Virage features a Sport button on the facia which when depressed will create a heightened driving experience through faster gear changes and the system will override the automatic change-up so the driver is able to hold the gear on the revolution limiter.
Control
The new Aston Martin Virage features a new Adaptive Damping System (ADS) which has been tuned to suit the particular character of Aston Martin's latest sporting GT. Each damper has five individual computer controlled stiffness settings. This allows the Virage to 'read' the road via strategically placed sensors around the car, constantly adjusting the ride at each corner. Using yaw, accelerometer, steering wheel, throttle and brake (ABS) sensors, the intelligent system can take into account the demands the driver is making of the car at any given time. The Adaptive Damping Electronic Control Unit (ECU) uses these measurements to determine the most appropriate damper settings required at any given time, becoming stiffer for better handling and control during dynamic driving, and becoming softer for greater ride comfort during 'normal' driving conditions.
Increasing driver control further, the glass ADS button on the facia allows the driver to override the system to push the dampers into a firmer range of settings. As the button is depressed, for the initial five seconds, all damper settings are set to their firmest providing the driver a tangible difference. After five seconds the system reverts to the optimum setting within the firmer range resulting in a more focussed but comfortable driving experience.
Virage is delivered to customers with Carbon Ceramic Matrix (CCM) brakes as standard - bucking the trend in this market. Critically acclaimed to provide the ultimate in progressive stopping power, the CCM discs take advantage of six piston callipers at the front and four at the rear. Giving the driver tangible control when braking, they are much more resistant to fade than conventional cast iron discs and at 12.5 kg lighter than a conventional system they contribute to a lower unsprung mass aiding ride comfort and handling.
The Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) system has been specifically tuned for the Aston Martin Virage. A three-stage DSC system allows the driver to tailor the level of electronic intervention according to the type of driving. In default mode, the system is set to 'on' which will limit any tyre slip in difficult conditions, and provide the maximum amount of security possible without being intrusive. Holding the DSC button for four seconds will engage 'Track Mode' which delays the electronic intervention further, creating a safe yet purer experience. Depressing the button for a further five seconds will disengage the system completely.
Using knowledge learned from the V8 Vantage Roadster and DBS Volante, the new Virage Volante features a solidly-mounted rear subframe as well as front and rear shear panels which deliver high levels of rigidity. This means that the Virage Volante retains its sporting dynamic characteristics, uncompromised by the open roof. For the first time on an Aston Martin the Virage coupe also uses a shear panel at the rear of the car, again to enhance strength and rigidity.
The fully integrated Aston Martin standard satellite navigation system has been completely revised for the Aston Martin Virage benefiting from a new system developed in conjunction with Garmin which is operated using the existing joystick and facia buttons. Features include clearer graphics, improved pictorial junction views and safety camera data. The new system maintains its integrated look, out of view beneath the real wood facia, rising seamlessly from the centre console at the touch of a button. Control through the aluminium four-way joystick prevents unattractive finger marks on the screen which impede clear vision.
Design, Refinement and Comfort
The new Virage was designed at Aston Martin's dedicated design studio at its global headquarters in Gaydon, Warwickshire, England. As an independent company, Aston Martin can take an initial sketch, through to a full size clay model, then to a prototype and ultimately into production all on one site. It allows the marque to be agile and reactive customer trends and demands.
Virage will be built in the same production facility as the DBS and DB9 and will be Aston Martin's tenth major new model to go into production at the UK site since Gaydon was opened.
Marek Reichman, Design Director at Aston Martin said: "The new Virage moves Aston Martin's design language evolution into a new contemporary phase. We have sculpted a new face which sharpens and refines the Aston Martin Virage whilst still being instantly recognisable as a pure Aston Martin sports car. The whole car looks as if it was precision machined from a single billet of aluminium emphasising the attention to detail and exquisite surface language. At Aston Martin we pride ourselves on beautifully honed surfaces created by skilled craftsmen."
Reichman continues: "The Virage will always delight, from picking up the glass and polished aluminium ECU key, walking up and admiring its stunning form, and tacitly appreciating the treatment of all the other senses through the finish of the materials. It makes every journey an event.
"The Virage doesn't wear its identity on its sleeve, it doesn't shout 'look at me', rather calmly hints at its potential, through pure lines and a low elegant stance."
New single lens bi-xenon lights lie beneath a new front headlamp which houses a side light 'bar' dissipating LED light giving the Virage an individual yet subtle visual on the road.
New 20" wheels add to the sense of proportion with a five spoke twin-prong design as standard and a 10-spoke forged diamond turned wheel as an option. Customers are also afforded the option of coordinating their brake callipers with their exterior paint colour with black, grey, red and yellow now being offered.
The Aston Martin engineering team sought to create a sports car that offers customers the highest levels of refinement yet combined with the increased power and control desired by customers. To this ends extra sound insulation has been applied to the front and rear bulkheads to create a relaxed ambiance when cruising. The Aston Martin Virage Volante features an extra layer of Thinsulate material in the fabric hood making the Volante feel like a coupe when the hood is up. Each Virage features seven hides of the finest leather sourced from Scandinavia with each interior taking in excess of 70 man hours to hand craft. It is this attention to detail which creates one of the finest and opulent moving interiors in existence today. As the driver or passenger opens the swan wing doors - which open up and out at 12 degrees to prevent any scrapes on nearby kerbs - they are greeted to pinstriped leather seams which are hand stitched by one seamstress just to be sure of a consistency throughout the car. The 10-way adjustable sports seats are sculpted to provide maximum support and comfort while the two-stage heated seats instantly shake the chill on a frosty morning. The option of an alternative lightweight seat arrangement is available with the 2+0 layout on the coupe.
Contributing to the feeling of luxury, finely polished glass buttons adorn the facia inviting the driver to select their desired setup or control. Aston Martin's design team have stayed true to the ethos of using material honestly where facias are real hand finished and polished woods, dials are milled aluminium, and leathers retain their patina and aroma years into their life.
In coupe form, Aston Martin Virage is available as a 2+2 or a 2+0 as an option, the latter providing a rear parcel shelf ideal for soft bags, while also reducing weight.

Chevrolet Miray Concept

GM Korea introduced the Chevrolet Miray Concept at the 2011 Seoul Motor Show. The roadster celebrates Chevrolet's 100-year heritage of designing stunning vehicles in the brand's newest market.

According to GM Korea President and CEO Mike Arcamone, "'Miray' is Korean for 'future.' As GM rolls out Chevrolet across Korea, the Miray concept offers an exploration of future possibilities for the brand. It strengthens the bond between car and driver, creating a fresh look at what sports cars of the future might be."
The Chevrolet Miray Concept was developed at the GM Advanced Design Studio in Seoul. Combining cutting-edge hybrid powertrain technology and advanced styling, it balances iconic Chevrolet design cues with a future design vision as Chevrolet celebrates its centenn
ial in 2011.
Classic Exterior
The Miray pays tribute to Chevrolet's sports car heritage. It is small and open like the 1963 Monza SS, and light and purposeful like the 1962 Corvair Super Spyder. Its expressive, aerodynamic fuselage is reminiscent of modern jet fighters.
Made of carbon fiber and CFRP (carbon fiber-reinforced plastic), the wedged body side is divided by an angled character line, with ambient lighting underneath. This accent creates a sweeping line of light when the car is in motion, bringing a warm glow to the sculptured body. Le Mans racer-style scissor doors open up and out of the way for dramatic access to the interior.
The powerful front end offers a reinterpretation of the Chevrolet face. The Chevrolet Miray Concept's dual port grille is flanked by LED headlamps with new signature daytime running lamps. The front and rear fenders evoke Chevrolet Corvettes of the past and express the concept's sports car spirit. At the corners, carbon-fiber spoilers help control down force and airflow.

Distinctive retractable flaps provide additional airflow control while providing access to the charge port on one side and the fuel filler on the other. The charge port also features an external battery charge indicator. Each rear fender contains individual cargo space for the storage of small items. Under the ducktail surface, the taillamps provide a new interpretation of Chevrolet's twin element identity.
The Chevrolet Miray Concept features aluminum-carbon fiber composite 20-inch wheels in front and 21-inch wheels in the rear. The strong turbine theme evokes movement, even when the Miray is stationary.
The heavily tapered top view enhances the Miray's purposeful image. From above, the cabin has a unique diamond shape.
Sporty Interior
The interior of the Miray echoes Chevrolet's racing heritage. As with the exterior, it takes inspiration from jet fighters. The Chevrolet Miray Concept contains a melange of brushed aluminum, natural leather, white fabric and liquid metal surfaces, for an overall effect of sculptural velocity.
The interior compartment is surrounded by a carbon fiber shell, which gives it a lightweight yet rigid structure. Its flowing, yet slightly tensioned, twin cockpit tightly wraps around the driver and passenger. The cockpit is driver focused, drawing inspiration from the iconic Chevrolet sports car. However, the passenger is also fully engaged in the driving experience.
Asymmetric seats flow from the door, forming a symmetric interior that gives the driver a feeling of being fully connected with the car. Ambient lighting, which starts from the upper instrument panel and flows into the seat back area, adds a sense of luxury. Seat cushions and headrests are connected by the lightweight carbon fiber shell and mounted on a single aluminum rail. The headrest area follows the exterior form, integrating with an air scarf for open-air driving.
Designers took a unique approach to displaying information, using back projection on the instrument panel. Information in front of the driver has been prioritized into three zones. Immediately in front is vehicle performance. It is flanked on the left by range and on the right by navigation and mileage figures. This eliminates unnecessary visual clutter, allowing the driver to focus on the thrill of driving.
The center touch screen flows down to an aluminum support, which evokes a fighter jet's nose with the landing gear down. The exterior surface waterfalls down into the interior to meet the reinforced console, connecting the front and rear of the car.
The centrally located start button is also inspired by a jet aircraft. When the button is pressed, the column-mounted retractable meter cluster rises like a jet fighter canopy and "Interactive Projection" appears on the white surface.
Retractable rearview cameras, which replace traditional rearview mirrors, extend from the side glass electrically. In city driving, the forward-facing camera operates in conjunction with GPS to overlay navigation information with real-time video.
Fuel-Efficient, High-Performance Propulsion System
The Chevrolet Miray Concept features a concept "mid-electric" propulsion system, located primarily behind and beneath the driver, that maximizes performance and fuel efficiency.
"Many of the components in the Miray's propulsion system are a logical extension of GM's current technology portfolio," said Uwe Grebe, executive director for GM Powertrain Advanced Engineering. "The concept shows the potential for reconfiguring, rescaling and extending today's propulsion technologies."
The Chevrolet Miray Concept is propelled by two front-mounted 15-kW electric motors for quick acceleration and zero emissions in urban driving. The motors are powered by a 1.6-kWh lithium-ion battery that is charged through regenerative braking energy. The Miray has the capability of being switched from front-wheel drive to rear-wheel drive.
For performance driving, the Chevrolet Miray Concept's 1.5-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine combines with the electric motors, providing spirited torque control to both the left and right wheels as needed. The high-tech engine, mounted behind the cockpit, drives the rear wheels while seamlessly integrating electrification technology that defines a new standard in the compact roadster segment.
A dual-clutch transmission (DCT) enables a reduction in the powertrain's size by eliminating the torque converter. Shifts are quick and firm. The shift pattern has been tuned for improved top speed in performance mode. A start-stop system works in conjunction with the DCT.

"The propulsion concept fits perfectly with the rest of the vehicle, delivering big performance in a small footprint, on the road and in the environment," said Arcamone. "By combining GM propulsion technology and visionary design, the Chevrolet Miray Concept points to the future of Chevrolets around the globe - expressive, youthful and entertaining."

Chevrolet Aveo 2011

2011 Chevrolet Aveo 5-door will make its world premiere It’s sporty hot-hatch lookstriking design elements of the new Chevrolet Aveo include the aggressive looking front with its exposed twin-headlamps and dual port grille, compact taut body panels with a rising shoulder line and short rear overhangs, the ‘hidden’ rear door handles which now feature in the c-pillar and a ‘body in, wheels out’ profile.

The new Chevrolet Aveo is give a spacious interior and cargo volume that is among
best in class. The interior design perhaps holds even more surprises than the outside, in particular the motorcycle-inspired instrument binnacle which features an analogue tachometer combined with a digital speedo and warning lights.

Chevrolet Aveo customers will appreciate the quality materials used in the interior as well as multiple storage spaces in the center stack and the modern audio system with USB, aux-in and Bluetooth functionality.
The new Aveo’s chassis use electronic power steering (EPS), Electronic stability control (ESC) and ABS brakes will be standard.

The petrol engine range includes two 1.2 liter versions (at 70 hp and at 86hp), a 1.4 liter unit (100 hp) and a 1.6 liter (115hp). For the first time, Chevrolet Aveo will be offered with two versions of a 1.3 liter diesel engine (at 75 hp and at 95 hp) featuring Start/Stop technology.

Chevrolet’s first 6-speed automatic transmission on a small car will feature on the Chevrolet Aveo 1.4 and 1.6 as an option in most markets; manual transmissions are of 5 or 6 speed depending on engine choice.

Pedrosa Absent in Catalunya?

Le Mans - Dani Pedrosa threatened to return aside from the circuit. Accident at Le Mans on Sunday (15/05/2011), making it potentially even absent in his hometown series, MotoGP Catalunya, Spain, three weeks.

Pedrosa recovering from left shoulder injury, now have to back injury. This time, his right shoulder was injured after the motorcycle bounced back after nudging ben Marco Simoncelli when both are fighting for second place at Le Mans.

As quoted in The Independent, Tuesday (05/17/2011), this injury suddenly make the existence of Pedrosa in MotoGP this season, threatened a mess. Spaniard is reportedly going to miss the fifth MotoGP series in front of the public in Barcelona, 5 June.

More than that, the Spaniard even rumored going to back up the table surgery to heal a broken bone in his shoulder. If this happens, then, Pedrosa was endangered absent in more than one series.

"Within the next few days, we will decide whether he should undergo surgery to restore bone fracture in his shoulder or let the bone heal itself without intervention (surgery)," said one staff Repsol Honda team.

As a result of this accident, Pedrosa also must be willing to position in the standings, slipped. Drivers who won the series in Estoril, Portugal this position must be willing to go down to number three with 61 points, or five points behind team-mate Casey Stoner and 17 points adrift of league leaders while Jorge Lorenzo.