DiMora Natalia SLS 2

The world's most expensive production automobile.
Von Stach Products announced today that its "HeatFlexx" heated frameless windshield wiper will be standard equipment on the Natalia SLS 2 sport luxury sedan, the world's most expensive production automobile. The electrically-heated "HeatFlexx" windshield wiper quickly melts ice and snow. The frameless design of the all-season blade provides continuous even pressure to the windshield, reducing streaks while reducing wind lift at speeds up to 150 MPH. The wiper was introduced at the SEMA and AAPEX auto shows in Las Vegas and is considered by many to be one of the most novel inventions in the automotive industry this year.

"Ice and snow have been a problem for drivers since the inception of the automobile," says John Von Stach, inventor of the HeatFlexx wiper. "With our product, drivers will no longer struggle with poor visibility due to poorly functioning wiper blades. We are thrilled to have our wipers installed on the Natalia SLS 2 and to be a technology partner with DiMora Motorcar."

DiMora Motorcar Founder and CEO Alfred J. DiMora noted that the vehicle will feature many unique innovations which have never been seen in a production automobile. "The HeatFlexx windshield wiper is a unique and outstanding product. We are pleased to be the first OEM to include Heatflexx as standard equipment, with its controls integrated into our dashboard/steering wheel operation." Mr. DiMora stated the goal for the Natalia is to be the most distinctive luxury automobile in transportation history.

The founder, CEO, and driving force behind DiMora Motorcar is Alfred J. DiMora, who produced two of America's finest luxury automobiles, the Clenet (as owner) and the Sceptre (as co-founder). He and the Clenet were inducted into the Automotive Hall of Fame in 1986 for the Centennial Year of the Gas-powered Automobile. He also co-founded Star Bridge Systems, which developed the hypercomputers now used by NASA and other technology leaders. According to DiMora, "The goal for the Natalia is to be completely distinctive from bumper to bumper—the most powerful four-door sport luxury automobile in transportation history. The Natalia will set the standard for 21st Century automotive excellence." DiMora further states, "I have drawn on my 30 years of automotive and computer expertise to design this futuristic vehicle, one that is safe, efficient, luxurious, nimble, and powerful."

As part of the production of this unique automobile, DiMora Motorcar will employ a first-time-ever approach for the auto industry—the world will watch the design, build, and test of the Natalia. Anyone with Internet access will be able to view this remarkable educational material via video-streamed webcams transmitting from the company's facilities. The DMC website will afford people the opportunity to comment on Natalia's design as it progresses and to submit their automotive innovations. DiMora states, "Many of the best ideas are created by individuals in their garages." Among the many ways DMC will entertain the followers of the Natalia's creation, DiMora Motorcar is planning to award prizes to thousands of people in a worldwide treasure hunt that will culminate with one very lucky person winning the grand prize—a $2 million Natalia SLS 2.

About DiMora Motorcar

Based in Palm Springs, California, DiMora Motorcar crafts automobiles designed to exceed expectations for safety, performance, technology, ecology, beauty, comfort, and luxury. It reveals the design, production, and testing of these automobiles via the Internet so that people around the world can participate in and learn from the process. The results will demonstrate America's automotive design and engineering leadership.

2008 Mitsubishi Lancer

Mitsubishi recently revealed the 2008 Lancer sedan, which will be on display at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit in January. The new-generation Lancer models arrive in Mitsubishi dealerships in early 2007.

The 2008 Lancer is based on a new global platform that also forms the foundation of the new Mitsubishi Outlander SUV. It has a longer wheelbase and wider track, but slightly shorter overall length than the previous model. It weighs 3,109 lbs.

All Lancer models are powered by an all-new 2.0-liter 152 hp aluminum DOHC MIVEC 4-cylinder engine (143 hp PZEV in Calif.) teamed to a 5-speed manual transmission. The new Lancer is the first Mitsubishi in North America to offer an optional continuously variable transmission (CVT).

Hennessey Ford GT 700

Hennessey will upgrade almost any car, and his easy tweaks to the Ford GT up the power to 710 bhp and 690 Lb-Ft of torque.

The upgrade is limited to engine tuning which increases the boost from a stock 13 psi to 17. Included are high flow air filters, a new supercharger pulley, custom tuned engine management and a new stainless steel exhaust.

As a whole, this small package holds a quick punch and Hennessey says it's good for 0 - 60 mph: 2.9 seconds and a top speed of 230 mph.

The only way to indentify the GT700 is a small script on the rear decklid. Other than this, they look surprising stock both from the outside and under the hood.


Power:
710 HP @ 6,800 rpm
690 Lb-Ft Torque @ 4,200 rpm
Performance:
0 - 60 mph: 2.9 sec.
1/4 mile: 10.9 sec. @ 134 mph
Top Speed: 230 mph

GT700 Upgrade System Includes:
High Flow Air Filters
Stainless Exhaust Upgrade
Supercharger Pulley Upgrade
Increases Boost from 13 psi (stock) to 17 psi
Custom Tuned Software
Fuel/Spark Recalibration
Increases Rev Limit from 6400 rpm to 6600 rpm
Road & Dyno Testing
Professional Installation
GT700 & Hennessey Exterior Badges

Specifications:
engine All Aluminum, MOD V8 w/Dry Sump Lubrication
position Mid Longitudinal
aspiration Eaton Model 2300 screw-type
valvetrain DOHC, 4 Valves per Cyl w/Variable Inlet Geometry
fuel feed Sequential Multi-Port Electronic Fuel Injection (SEFI) with Dual
displacement 5409 cc / 330.1 cu in
bore 90.2 mm / 3.55 in
stroke 105.8 mm / 4.17 in
compression 8.4:1
power 529.5 kw / 710 bhp @ 6500 rpm
hp per litre 131.26 bhp per litre
bhp/weight 447.1 bhp per tonne
torque 935.51 nm / 690 ft lbs @ 4200 rpm
redline 6600
drive wheels RWD w/Helical LSD
body / frame Aluminum Panels over Aluminum Spaceframe
front brakes Brembo Cross-Drilled & Vented Discs w/Four-Piston Monoblock Calipers, ABS
f brake size 356 mm / 14.0 in
rear brakes Brembo Cross-Drilled & Vented Discs w/Four-Piston Monoblock Calipers, ABS
r brake size 335 mm / 13.2 in
front wheels F 45.7 x 22.9 cm / 18 x 9 in
rear wheels R 48.3 x 29.2 cm / 19.0 x 11.5 in
front tire size Goodyear Eagle F1 Supercar 235/45ZR18
rear tire size Goodyear Eagle F1 Supercar 315/40ZR19
steering Rack & pinion
f suspension Upper A Arm & Lower L Arm w/Springs, Monotube Aluminum Dampers, Tubular Anti-Roll Bar
r suspension Upper A Arm & Lower L Arm w/Springs, Monotube Aluminum Dampers, Tubular Anti-Roll Bar
weight 1588 kg / 3500 lbs
wheelbase 2710 mm / 106.7 in
front track 1599 mm / 63.0 in
rear track 1618 mm / 63.7 in
length 4643 mm / 182.8 in
width 1953 mm / 76.9 in
height 1125 mm / 44.3 in
transmission Ricardo Six-Speed
gear ratios 2.61:1, 1.71:1, 1.23:1, 0.94:1, 0.77:1, 0.63:1
final drive 3.36:1
top speed 370.1 kph / 230 mph
0 - 60 mph 2.9 seconds
0 - 1/4 mile 10.9 seconds

1937 Ford Sedan Dreamsicle OZE 37

Taylor Custom Street Rods in Hamilton, OH. is building this 1937 Sedan for Mike Soto. The product formula is set up for a production based vehicle that is offered through SRBD. Body is the new Sedan model OZE body - Custom Chassis and fabrication by Tim Taylor- To learn more about this car and the details on the Sedan turn keys Please visit Taylor Custom Street Rods online! This car was featured both in 2005 and 2006 at the SEMA show in Las Vegas.

TCSR built this 1937 OZE sedan for Mike Soto of Modesto, California. The car was designed by Joe Iacono of Iacono Design and paint colors were selected by Art Hensel. The team at TCSR started the project in mid August with hopes of introducing the car at the October SEMA show.

With plenty of long nights the team achieved their goal and brought the car to the SEMA show. The car was displayed at the main entrance to the show, near the Buckaroo Communications booth. The car was a big hit and received a great amount of attention. It will be on the cover of one of Buckaroo’s many publications, Street Rod Builder. The car also caught the attention of the ESPN’s Mother’s Car Show series. The car was filmed at the show and we expect to see the segment air in mid February. Also during the show, Blackie, a well known car enthusiast, was impressed with the car and invited us to bring it to his invitation only show in March of 2006. You can look for the car at shows throughout California.

Ford Shelby GT 150 by Unique Performance

Ford Shelby GT-150 by Unique Performance you see here. Except, dont expect to see one in your local Ford dealer showroom, at least not for right now. Basically, what you see is a POC (Proof Of Concept) vehicle, which we first photographed at the production facility of Unique Performance in Farmers Branch, Texas, and a week later snapped again at the 2007 Barrett-Jackson classic car auction in Scottsdale, Arizona. For the record, somebody paid $104,500 for this high performance Shelby truck. Thats a heap of cash, but also a heap of truck.

Before you start thinking anybody could add the cool stripes and spoilers, you should know the parts and pieces on this vehicle are one-off and unique to the GT-150. Functionally, this crew cab Shelby is a legal prototype. The project got going a few years ago when Doug Hasty, president of Unique Performance in Farmers Branch, Texas worked out a licensing agreement with Shelby Automobiles. Of course, Unique builds the Shelby G.T.500E Continuation Eleanor fastbacks under Shelby license, as well.

In the last few years, Unique has been getting into production of limited high performance vehicles. For the engineering and validation required to manufacture new cars and trucks, in 2005 they teamed with Tecstar, a top OEM supplier and manufacturer based in Troy, Michigan. The first vehicle to come out of that association was the 2006 Foose Stallion, a hot new Mustang available in Ford showrooms. The 07 will have a supercharger option.

A Shelby pickup would fill a niche in the F-150 lineup with the departure, in 2004, of the popular Ford Lightening. Hasty was eager to put such a truck on the road. Shelby wanted in the truck market, too. In 2004, at the SEMA show in Las Vegas, he had displayed a Shelby Expedition, another concept vehicle. Maybe production could wait, however, with the Expedition fast approaching achangeover in its design. The F-150 was longer lived.

Unique Performance Concepts hired Joe Iacono to design a Shelby truck. Hasty asked for a fresh approach, something race-inspired that tied into Shelbys legacy and what he is doing today. Iacono, a 29 year-old automotive artist and designer from Northern California, has been gaining a reputation of one of the most prolific designers in the industry. Iacono has designed and coordinated many traditional hot rods, aftermarket concepts, and niche market production vehicles. The Speed Channel along with BCII Productions recently chose Iacono to design nine (9) custom aftermarket vehicle concepts for the upcoming episodes of the new TV show called
Payback. Hasty calls Iacono an up and coming talent with a lot of creativity. Unique also worked with Joe on the HHR they did with General Motors for the hit television show Rides on The Learning Channel

Hasty said, A lot of dealers had given us the feedback, at the very least it needed to be an extended cab truck. So we went with an extended cab fleet side, to keep as much weight as we could down.Giving the truck a rear seat would increase the customer base. They even considered a four door in the lineup.

Hasty said, The four door was so much heavier we thought we would do the extended cab first, and get feedback from the consumer, and let the consumer tell us which direction to go.

From Joe's renderings, Unique Performance Concepts clayed up a full sized truck, then pulled molds for parts to create the Shelby GT-150. This work was done in Tecstars Wheel-To-Wheel facility in Troy, Michigan. Wheel-To-Wheel builds very high end, prototype vehicles from all of the top auto manufacturers in Detroit.

UPC built three prototypes. The first one was used for durability tests. The second truck was built mainly for development of interior components. The third GT-150 was the POC vehicle, seen here. Iacono mentions, Some inspirations for the vehicle concept stem from the modern Shelby Cobra and the modern Shelby Mustang. The grille was designed from the signature Shelby look of the big gaping intake. Unlike a car, trucks have a very bulky utility-like feature that we wanted to streamline to keep within our performance stance. The front clip is 4.5 inches lower than the production model vehicle. We also wanted to tighten up the tolerances throughout the vehicle including the rocker panels and rear cover. We have added 3.4 mills to the lower door and fender wells to also help define the performance stance.

When designing a vehicle that will be made on a small production run, you have many regulations to follow. Keeping to the rules, we wanted to push the envelope on developing a very modern line for a truck.

The hood, though not functional, features a twin scoop pattern painted blue and offset with racing stripes on the drivers side. This application was inspired by the early Shelby Cobra racecars of the 60s. The two-panel race stripe that covers the 1/4 panel was a way to keep the traditional race stripes that Shelby is known for without making the truck look tall. We wanted to shift the attention from a tall cab line, so we looked at a 1/4 panel stripe also called a rookie stripe. This made sense to the entire team, as it is an option you see used on many of the Vintage Shelby Cobra collectables.

As you move from front to rear, we wanted to create Fluidity or Gestalt with each body part. Keeping this in mind, the team was able to define part solutions that were not greater than the whole.

For now, the truck has been shelved and concept development slowed. Whether or not the truck moves forward is up in the air. Since the POC GT-150 had served its purpose, Unique decided to sell it at Barrett-Jackson and show the public what the truck is all about. This way, it would be kind of a gauge to get some feedback from the public.

Carzone Specials Ford Fiesta

Carzone Specials, latest from Belgium. Their Works could be seen many times and everything it was something new as it should be in the tuning industry. No mater if it’s an estate or sub-compact city car – it’s never the same. It’s simply the uniqueness. Also today’s hot product is no exception – a complete bodykit for a cute and cozy car – Ford Fiesta.

The trend is small car that can be very handy and useful in horrible traffic conditions. So Ford introduced its new compact model Fiesta, the car that is comfortable but also powerful with nice stylish design. It’s a dream of modest customers. There are six engines available (4 gasoline and 2 diesels) that are mounted depending up version, like the ST version for example. This version has the most powerful engine – 2.0 V4 Duratec producing 150 hp (110 kW) at 6000 rpm. Of course, the sporting elements such as plastics, sporting suspension, aluminum rims or sporting interior can’t miss there.

No reason to point out those guys from Carzone Specials was playing with the modification. They chosen the way of sporting design, but they didn’t forget about some necessary decency. Big plastics don’t mean everything.

The CS guys know this very well and they‘ve chosen very carefully. We’d like to introduce the Apex bodykit for tiny Ford Fiesta.

As other day, also today we need to say that we like this modification very much. The smoothness and lightness of selected parts to perfectly match with soft lines of this four wheel creation - that’s breathtaking.

Perfectly designed and made plastic parts match perfectly with the rest of the car.

The Apex bodykit includes a front bumper. The bumper is divided into two parts – upper part is smoothed and lower is full of openings.

The central and two side openings with skewed edges fit with mudguards and lines of the front part.

There are also two side decorative wings and all openings are covered with a black perforated sheet.

The bumper makes the car sportier, but someone doesn’t like it. But i think that Carzone Specials did a great job.

So we shouldn’t forget about the side sills and extensions that are very well designed. Simple shapes are absolutely satisfying.

Mitsubishi Outlander Supports Dakar 2008

Team Repsol Mitsubishi Ralliart in Dakar 2008 will have support from Mitsubishi in the form of a Mitsubishi Outlander. This model was confirmed as official support vehicle for the seventh successive winning Dakar team. Ralliart gets the Outlander with major safety improvements, however, the engine and transmission remains the same as the production model. The 2008 Dakar Outlander has also been modified with four racing bucket seats with full harness belts, a safety roll-cage, an additional fuel tank, under-body protection, dampers, navigational equipment, and a host of other features. The engine, running gear, and fundamental chassis architecture, however, remain identical to the standard production car. Carrying capacity is up to 1,691 litres. The exterior is finished in the full racing livery of the competition Pajero/Montero Evolutions. The production vehicle comes with AWC (All Wheel Control) technology, electronic 4x4 control system, developed by Mitsubishi. The system utilizes three modes to match the level of traction control to individual preferences and different road conditions. Mitsubishi has been developing 4x4 systems over the last 20 years.

Main Technical Specifications (Standard Outlander 2.2 Di-D)

Outlander is one of the symbols of the renewal of Mitsubishi Motors' line-up and was the brand's first car to be built on Mitsubishi's “Project Global” architecture, together with the new Lancer family (incl. Lancer Evolution X). It is also packed with Mitsubishi's legendary expertise in the realm of four-wheel drive technology and in the UK is powered by a choice of 2.2 Di-D 156PS (diesel), 2.0 Di-D 140PS (diesel), 2.4 MIVEC 170PS (petrol) engines.

Mitsubishi Outlander 2.2 Di-D

156 PS @ 4,000 rpm and 380 Nm @ 2,000 rpm

From 39.2 mpg, 7,2 L/100km (combined cycle)

From 191 g/km (combined cycle)

0-62 mph/0-100km/h in 9.9 seconds

124 mph/200 km/h maximum speed

AWC (All-Wheel-Control)

6-speed manual gearbox

Audi R8 Back in Racing

The name Audi R8 was born on the race track, so it was only a matter of time to see it back in an endurance race. Yes, in 24 hours, but not in Le Mans, where the R8 conquered between 2000-2005.

Now, in 2008, a specially prepared Audi R8 supercar will make an appearance in 24 Hours of Dubai. The Dutch tuning specialist Creventic BV is preparing the CR-8 for an assault on endurance sportscar racing. Nevertheless, there are not many changes on the supercar. Creventic CR-8 is powered by the standard 4.2 liter V8 engine with remapped engine management system giving ten horses more than the production car with 420 hp. Creventic removed the factory-installed low-gear restrictor, as well as a host of baubles and bolt-ons to the body to bring it up to race spec. 18-inch BBS competition rims wrapped in Toyo racing slicks are put in place, a 90-liter racing fuel tank installed and AST suspension components mounted at all four corners.

Creventic has put a race-spec sequential gearbox and also carbon fiber body panels, trying to get more speed. The diet of the Dutch specialist proves to make some 300 kg less to now 1350 kg chassis.

24 Hours of Dubai in 2007 was won by BMW Z4 M. The first pair of CR-8s will be shown next month at the Dubai Autodrome in the United Arab Emirates for a race-track shakedown and public unveiling with the first customer cars to be delivered shortly thereafter.

Volkswagen GTI W12 concept

Volkswagen revealed the GTI W12 concept — an ultra-high-performance version of its popular GTI hatchback. Featuring a 12-cylinder, 6.0 liter motor, the GTI W12 can hit 60 mph in just 3.7 seconds.

Delivering 650 horsepower and 553 pound feet of torque, this GTI uses the same powerplant found in the Bentley Continental, Audi A8, Volkswagen Phaeton, and Touareg. The engine is based on two narrow-angle VR6 engines joined at the crank.

The car features extensive body modifications for increased aerodynamics and rides on 19-inch wheels. Volkswagen says the GTI W12 can hit a top speed of 202 mph. "This GTI moved the wing inward," explains Klaus Bischoff. "The roof is part of an enormous diffuser, which provides sufficient down force on the rear axle. It is made of carbon fiber and forces air over and under the tail spoiler to obtain a perfect amount of pressure on the rear axle."

The purpose of this design study is not known, and production seems unlikely.

2007 Mini Rallye Monte Carlo Concept

Mini announced the 2007 Mini Rallye Monte Carlo Concept, also referred to simply as the 2007 Geneva Concept. Like the Mini Traveller concept, this vehicle hints at where the next-generation Mini Mk. II is headed, shrouded in an entertaining theme with various accessories. This time, the theme is the Rallye Automobile Monte Carlo (Monte Carlo Rally). The car is dressed up as a service car for a rally team at the race. The concept has the engine from the Mini Cooper S.

MAZDA CX-9 2008

MAZDA CX-9 2008

in Indonesia, Mazda just launched SUV CX-7 him, now in his origin country (Japan) has had the concept CX-9.
This was the second SUV generation 7 passengers in 2008.




According to the Mazda source, CX-9 used several components from Ford Edge and Mazda 6 sedans that used the machine V6 3,700 cc (273 dk) with the automatic transmission 6-speed.

skoda 2 review

here is a little review of skoda
Performance Performance rating
The Fabia offers a wide range of engines. Choices include 59bhp and 68bhp 1.2s, an 84bhp 1.4 and a 103bhp 1.6-litre petrol engines. All engines come with a five-speed manual gearbox as standard, but the 1.6 allows you to specify a semi-automatic gearbox. There are also two versions of Skoda's 1.4-litre turbodiesel, giving either 68bhp or 79bhp, while a 103bhp 1.9-litre engine tops the diesel range.
Ride & handling Ride & handling rating






The Fabia is big by supermini standards, but it's dinky enough to excel in the city, and light controls. The Fabia rides comfortably, too, doing a good job of smoothing out patchy surfaces. It does lean a little through corners, and it's hampered by a vague gearshift, though.
Refinement Refinement rating -
A little wind noise builds up around the windscreen pillars as speed increases, but road and suspension noise rarely break the calm in the cabin. It's a shame the same can't be said of the engines; all the three-cylinder engines are noisy, especially at low speeds, but the real villain is the 1.9-litre diesel, which is loud and gruff compared with modern diesel engines.

renault concept cars

From dreamlife… renault will

Veritable distillations of ideas, with new and breathtaking lines, concept cars are the substance of which dreams are made.
The dreams of the public that suddenly glimpses the future.
The dreams of designers who let their imagination and creativity reign free, creating new horizons of possibility and inventing the cars of the future.



the renault motto


… to the future renault will

A dream made real through the uncommon status of concept cars. Freed from industrial constraints necessary for the production of vehicles on the assembly line, these one-of-a-kind prototypes are at the very heart of the Group’s strategy.
They express Renault’s anticipation of and response to the evolution in lifestyles.
They provide the public with the opportunity to experience new forms of expression and to test reactions.
Concept cars are precious accelerators of innovation.

Citroen Nemo

The Bologna Motor Show is coming and how every year the news will be very many. Here we talk about the concept that Citroen will present at the Motor Show, Citroen Nemo. Exactly, Citroen decided to call a model with the name of the famous fish of Walt Disney.

The plea was developed in cooperation with Fiat and Peugeot already presented to Roas Transport Show in Amsterdam.Ecco press release:
Completely Nemo! Nemo Concept illustrates the surprising closeness between Citroën Nemo clown fish and his namesake. Like the fish, Nemo Concept can be seen as a "piccoletto" among their fellow human beings. However, its size will translate into an advantage, especially in the way traffic.

ferrari spider

what is different ferrari and spiderman.The Ferrari F430 is a high-performance sports car produced by the Italian automaker Ferrari to succeed the 360.


It debuted at the 2004 Paris Motor Show.[2] European left-hand drive sales began in November 2004, but right-hand drive sales did not start until Spring 2005, and the United States did not get the F430 until Summer 2005.

Beauty and intelligence in formula

Beauty and intelligence is back in the Paddock in the shape of the 10 extraordinary ladies

Beauty and intelligence is back in the Paddock in the shape of the 10 extraordinary ladies invited by Red Bull to every GP to compete in the Formula Una Ladies Award

news Ferrari building new simulator

i read a news that Ferrari is hard at work on a new formula one simulator, according to reports in the Spanish press. The sports daily Marca claims that Marc Gene is at the forefront of the high-tech equipment's development, and that his test at Jerez this week was almost exclusively centred on collecting information for the simulator.



McLaren's top secret state-of-the-art simulator is known as being currently the best among F1 teams, and it took much of the credit for Lewis Hamilton's sensational rookie season in 2007. Red Bull was believed to be building a similar unit and software for its own factory.

But Marca believes that Ferrari's new simulator will be superior to all others in F1, following more than 18 months of development led by Felipe Massa's former race engineer Gabriele Delli Colli.

Gene, Ferrari's secondary test driver, commented that the simulator is already operating at an advanced level. “I haven't tested like this for nearly a year and I should be a lot more rusty,” the Spaniard said at Jerez earlier this week, “but I am only a half or second or so away from Räikkönen. This is thanks to the simulator, which allows you to keep pace. It is a very big help,” he added.

2007 Nissan 350Z GT-S Concept

A small team of Nissan development engineers working in their spare time have transformed a 350Z into a highly tuned 'Saturday Special.' Called the GT-S, the supercharged super coupé is a performance-focused version of Nissan's acclaimed 'Z-'car' and is designed to appeal to enthusiastic 350Z owners who simply want more. Although boasting a power hike and a substantially modified chassis, the GT-S is far from being a stripped out racing car with a rock hard ride and a peaky power delivery. "The GT-S has been created as a real car not an ornament," says Communications Director Wayne Bruce. "We wanted to build a 'Club Special' that could still be used to commute to work during the week but would provide added thrills at the weekend: a weekday workhorse and a weekend warrior in one distinctive package.

The project's technical leader Steve Robbins — who during the week is a senior engineer in the new vehicle evaluation team at NTCE — gathered together half a dozen like-minded enthusiasts to work on the project.

Working after hours and at the weekend, the team members came from within NTCE and also from outside suppliers and was known internally as the S-Club Seven…

Most of the changes center on the car's engine and chassis. Using a supercharger installation from Swiss manufacturers Novidem, power has increased by more than 25 per cent from 300 hp to 382 hp, while torque rises from 353 Nm to a heady 425Nm.

Performance gains are expected to include a one second cut in the benchmark 0-60mph time (5.8 seconds for the standard 350Z) with 2.5 seconds slashed from the 0-100 mph time.

And it sounds better, too, thanks to an electronically controlled by-pass valve that enriches the exhaust note at a pre-determined engine speed.

NTCE engineers — the very men who tuned the original 350Z to suit European roads and our higher speeds — have undertaken the suspension changes. Working closely with specialists from Bilstein, the changes concentrate on optimising road performance, with improvements in both handling ability and ride comfort. Wider wheels and tyres complete the chassis alterations.

A wind tunnel developed body/aero kit from German firm Strosek not only gives the all-black GT-S a distinctive look, but also improves the 350Z's aerodynamic performance with increased front and rear downforce at speed. The package is completed by a NVH pack which makes the GT-S even more civilised than the standard 350Z.

Steve Robbins said: "We could have produced a balls-out racer with huge power outputs and very little suspension movement. But while this would have created a superb racer, it would have been virtually unusable on the road. Instead we approached the GT-S from an engineering stand-point with a view to creating a 350Z that provides more of everything… performance, handling, looks, comfort and excitement.

"We also looked at the possible marketing potential of such a project and have designed the improvements as individual 'packs' — an engine pack, a suspension pack, aero pack and so on — and kept a close eye on costs."

So will the GT-S ultimately become more than a weekend project by a group of mavericks? Nissan is saying nothing officially, though insiders point to its appearance at Goodwood as a sign the company is giving the GT-S concept serious consideration.

2007 Honda Civic Si Sedan concept

The Civic Si Sedan Concept provides strong hints of the styling and performance for a production Civic Si Sedan scheduled to go on sale this fall, marking the first time that "Si" performance has become available in the Civic Sedan. Similar to the recently introduced Civic Si Coupe, the production Civic Si Sedan will serve as another performance leader for the Civic line-up with a 197-horsepower, 16-valve, DOHC i-VTEC engine with an 8,000 rpm redline, mated to a close-ratio, 6-speed manual transmission. Helping to put all that power to the ground is a helical-type, limited slip differential for improved traction and cornering performance.
The Civic Si Sedan Concept features custom 18-inch cast aluminum alloy wheels, 225/40ZR18 high-performance tires, and 4-wheel disc brakes with large cross-drilled brake rotors and 4-piston Brembo calipers.
"The Civic Si Sedan Concept demonstrates how the high-performance attributes of the Civic Si Coupe can be directly applied to the functionality of a sedan," said John Mendel, senior vice president of American Honda.
A production vehicle based on the Civic Si Sedan Concept will go on sale this fall. The 2007 Civic Si Sedan will mark a further evolution of Civic Si's sixth generation alongside the Civic Si Coupe - and will be the first time a Civic Si is available in two body styles. The Civic Si first appeared in 1986 with subsequent Civic Si models appearing in 1989, 1992, 1999 and 2002.
The Civic Si Concept (coupe version) made its debut at the 2005 Chicago Auto Show, preceding the introduction of the all-new 2006 Civic Si, Civic Hybrid, Civic Sedan and Civic Coupe. The Civic Si Coupe and Civic Si Sedan will both complement the Civic lineup with features designed to appeal to true enthusiasts seeking a high level of performance and value.

2007 Honda Civic Type S 3-door hatchback

To give the Type S sharper steering response, improved ride and excellent cornering stability, the suspension has been specially-tuned, with revised spring and damper settings and a 20mm wider rear track. This broader stance, coupled with the deep front air intake and standard 17-inch alloy wheels, gives the Type S a particularly muscular, planted look.

Under the bonnet of the 3-door Civic sits either a rev-happy 1.8-litre i-VTEC petrol engine, or Honda's highly-rated 2.2-litre diesel unit. Both engines produce a significant 140 hp and can be combined with a 6-speed manual gearbox. The 1.8-litre i-VTEC is also available with Honda's automated-manual i-SHIFT transmission.

Inside, silver-stitched black alcantara seats and a leather trimmed steering wheel join aluminium pedals to set a very sporting tone.

The cabin itself is focused around Honda's unique Dual Link dashboard design — first featured on the 5-door Civic — which places key information in the upper part of the instrument panel. This means that important data can be viewed without compromising the driver's concentration on the road.

Although the coupe-like styling of the Type S might suggest compromised cabin space, the interior instead succeeds in providing a high degree of flexibility and passenger accommodation. The distance between the hip point of front and rear passengers (803mm) equates to that of higher segment cars.

The rear seats also incorporate Honda's familiar one-motion, dive-down feature that instantaneously creates a flat loading space. This helps create a massive 485 litres of loading space — the same as the Civic 5-door. A centrally-positioned fuel tank located beneath the front seats, rather than impinging on the luggage area, also plays a key role in achieving this packaging efficiency.

Two model grades will be offered. As well as 17-inch wheels and Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) as standard, Type S gets air conditioning, cool box, remote audio controls and curtain airbags. The Type S GT model adds a panoramic glass roof, dual zone air conditioning, cruise control, front foglights, retractable mirrors, and automatic wipers and headlamps.

The comprehensive passive safety features include double seatbelt pre-tensioners on both front seats as well as active headrests for protection against dangerous whiplash injury. Front and side SRS airbags for front seat passengers and ful-length curtain airbags are standard on all models. The instrument display also features an innovative seatbelt reminder for both front and rear seat passengers.

Honda anticipates a Euro NCAP result of 5 stars for front and side impact safety, 3 stars for pedestrian safety and 4 stars for child protection safety, making it one of the safest cars in its class.

The 3-door Type S will form the basis of the Civic Type R, which goes on sale in the UK in March 2007. The highly-anticipated Type R will offer greater sophistication without compromising the Type R philosophy of exhilarating performance through advanced engineering.

Aggressive styling, responsive steering, intuitive handling and greater in-cabin refinement will all be key characteristics. And although maximum engine power remains the same as the out-going Civic Type R, Honda's engineers have further developed the 200 hp 2.0-litre engine.

The Type R will also have a GT grade, which will offer extra equipment such as dual zone air conditioning and automatic rain and light sensors.

2007 Honda CR-V

Following some leaks, Honda has released official images of the 2007 CR-V crossover. The revamped model has a lower center of gravity (reduced by 35mm), wider stance (increased by 30mm) and a number of changes to steering and suspension geometry for improved handling. The all-wheel-drive ststem has also been improved with a revised "Real Time 4WD" that detects front wheel slip and promptly sends torque rearwards. As revealed in past spy shots and leaked photos, the CR-V gets a new windowline, which Honda hopes will give it a more car-like appearance. The spare wheel has been removed from the tailgate and is now found under the load compartment floor. The vehicle will be offered with radar-based Adaptive Cruise Control and a "Collision Mitigation Braking System" that will automatically brake if a collision is imminent. Active headlights are another high-tech feature added to the CR-V. Power comes from a 166 horsepower inline-four engine with 161 pound-feet of torque. A five-speed automatic transmission will be the only option in America. Base price is expected to be around $21,000. Contrary to rumors, the U.S. and European versions are identical.

Honda REMIX concept

The Honda REMIX small sport concept has its world debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show recently. The REMIX explores the shape and design of a two-seat sports car focused on performance and daily usability.

"Pure Honda to the core, the REMIX concept vehicle focuses on a simple, lightweight and fun-to-drive philosophy," said John Mendel, senior vice president of American Honda. "The concept balances sports car virtues with real-world practicality."

The REMIX Small Sport Concept is a product of the Honda R&D Americas, Inc., Advanced Design Studio in Southern California. Purely a design concept, the vehicle is fashioned around a front-wheel drive small car platform with a 4-cylinder engine and a 6-speed manual transmission. A sport suspension, along with aggressive tires and brakes, further supplement its performance side.

Scion Fuse Concept

Totyota unveiled the Scion Fuse sports coupe concept at the New York Auto Show. "The idea of the all-new Fuse Sports Coupe is a reflection of the boundless limits and creative envelope that embodies all the vital personalization components of a Scion product," said Mark Templin, Scion vice president. "Since the launch of Scion three years ago, designers have learned a great deal about what inspires and motivates Scion buyers through its unique vehicle lineup and instilled them into the Fuse."

The exterior of the Fuse was the conception of Calty designers Alex
Shen and Bob Mochizuki, who were determined to create a strong performance
statement. Inspiration came from the "HAKO" super GT racing cars of Japan,
commonly known as the JGTC series. From the side, the Fuse has a low,
aggressive stance with a race helmet-inspired wraparound window that
provides a panoramic view. The visor-like wraparound windshield is balanced
by a strong C-pillar, adding a sense of security and protection.

Calty interior designers Alan Schneider and Ichirou Mukai used the long
wheelbase and high beltline of the Fuse to help create the interior theme,
which revolves around providing the driver with an intense driving
environment and occupants an intimate atmosphere. The activation of a small
key-shaped sensor unhinges butterfly doors that open to reveal an interior
that merges technology, function and racing inspired elements in an
asymmetrical pentagon where the driver is positioned at the apex of the
surround.

The influence of the "racing tub" in the overall design is obvious. It
provides a unique contrast that highlights the floating technical elements
of the interior. A drive-by-wire steering interface combines influences
from race cars and video game controllers in one innovative driver module.
A media station that runs the length of the dash is the focal point of the
cabin. Passengers can watch movies, play video games, or do both, with dual
display 10.5-inch monitors.

The Fuse interior concept is referred to as "one plus stuff." The
design focuses on the driver by offering surprising versatility in the form
of three interior arrangements: video, driving and cargo configurations. In
its video mode, the front passenger seat folds flat and serves as a table,
or footrest. Occupants can utilize video screens or take advantage of
wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi) connectivity and instant message their friends.
In driving mode, the video screens turn off and a multi-informational
display is used for driver information.

Utility is maximized in a cargo mode where the front passenger seat and
rear seats fold down to form a flat surface. And, multi-functioning rear
cargo access allows stowage of larger items. The Fuse cabin seats four
comfortably, however when the car is parked, additional room is available
with a tailgate that converts to provide outdoor seating. A sweep of the
foot over an infrared sensor located on the lip of the rear bumper opens
the rear tailgate and sliding hatch, allowing the tailgate to drop down
into a curb-high bench. This surprising seating arrangement is paired with
rear foldout speakers for an unexpected social environment. Enhancing the
social scene is a detachable drink cooler with a retractable handle, which
is integrated into the rear center console.

Additional features include subtle accent lighting on the seats, doors
and overhead lining. Deeply contoured seats are upholstered with
soft-to-the-touch "Mythos" fabric that wraps around passengers for maximum
comfort. Finally, audio, video and HVAC systems are easily controlled by a
"vehicle system/communication interface" touch control board that is
similar in appearance to a telephone keypad.

2009 Toyota Matrix at SEMA

Toyota unveiled the all-new second-generation Matrix at a press conference today at the SEMA auto show. Toyota says the 2009 model will hit Toyota dealerships in February 2008. We've got a complete photo gallery of the production car, plus images of the special-edition SEMA model.

Matrix will be available in three grades – Standard, S and the XRS. And Matrix will offer the option of all-wheel drive (AWD) with the S grade. The 2009 Matrix offers the choice of two different engines, a five-speed manual transmission, and either four- or five-speed automatic transmissions.

A 16-valve, 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine will produce 132 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 128 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,400 rpm. The engine will feature Dual VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing with intelligence) on both the intake and exhaust camshafts that helps it achieve outstanding performance and economy. Estimated EPA fuel economy ratings are 26/32 city/highway mpg for manual transmission models and 25/31 for the automatic transmission model powered by a 1.8-liter engine.

For those who want a bit more horsepower and torque, the Matrix offers a 16-valve DOHC 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with VVT-i that will produce 158 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 162 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,000 rpm. Matrix models powered by the 2.4-liter engine with five-speed automatic transmission will have an estimated EPA fuel economy of 21/29 city/highway mpg.

The Matrix’s base wheel is a 16-inch steel unit with a six-spoke full wheel cover. A distinctive 17-inch five-spoke aluminum wheel will be available for the S grade, and an 18-inch aluminum alloy wheel with a twin five-spoke design will come standard on the XRS grade.

Dual-stage SRS airbags will be standard for the driver and front passenger. Front seat-mounted side airbags, two-row side curtain airbags and front active headrests are also standard.

Brake performance will be improved with standard front and rear disc brakes on all Matrix grades. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) with Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) are also standard. Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) with TRAC and off switch will be standard on XRS and available as an option on all other models.

More standard features

Base equipment on all Matrix models include power color-keyed outside rearview mirrors, power steering, tilt and telescopic steering wheel, daytime running lights, heavy duty rear window defogger, intermittent windshield wipers, 12-volt power outlet, four cupholders, auxiliary audio input jack, front center console box and an engine immobilizer.

The S grade adds standard power door locks and windows with one-touch down driver-side, 115-volt power outlet, cruise control, intermittent rear window wiper, fold-flat front passenger seat, remote keyless entry, AM/FM/CD with MP3 capability and six speakers, front and rear underbody spoilers and fog lamps.

In addition to these features, the XRS grade features standard P215/45 R18 tires on 18-inch alloy wheels, sport strut tower brace, VSC with TRAC and off switch, and a three-spoke leather-trimmed steering wheel with audio steering wheel controls.

XRS models come standard with a leather-trimmed steering wheel that also includes spoke-mounted audio controls and hands-free Bluetooth capability when equipped.

Options

In addition to the standard equipment, a list of optional comfort and utility features are available. Options will include an AM/FM/CD with six-speaker system with DVD navigation with XM NavTraffic capability, alloy wheels, power heated outside rearview mirror, intermittent rear window wiper, cruise control, power door locks, power windows, and remote keyless entry.

Mazda CX-7 Adrenaline

Mazda at the Specialty Equipment Market Association's (SEMA) annual show in Las Vegas unveiled CX-7 Adrenaline — a fully running prototype designed to showcase Mazda's "commitment to performance."

The SUV has been upgraded to give it sports car-like handling and performance. Mazda engineers converted the CX-7’s stock six-speed automatic transmission to a six-speed manual from the Mazda 6. Adrenaline pushes out more than 300 horsepower, thanks to a re-tuned engine with a modified intake system, header with a free-flow exhaust and more boost from the re-plumped turbo.

A wider, lower stance and a bolder face give the all-wheel-drive Adrenaline an aggressive stance. Unique design cues include new front and rear exterior styling, a clam shell front clip, wrap around rear spoiler and an innovative rear glass design. New fenders and doors give Adrenaline a three-inch wider overall stance. Wheel wells are filled out through the fitment of 22-inch EXE wheels with matching Yokohama tires.