Have a great day...Ride Safe..Take Care..Keep Visiting HighThrottle!!
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
HT CHICK OF THE DAY [30-06-09]
Rossi’s 100 Grand Prix wins - He's Born to Win
Some facts and figures relating to Valentino Rossi’s remarkable 100 career wins, since his first victory in the 125cc class in Brno in 1996
.
Valentino Rossi’s flawless march to victory over the weekend at the Alice TT Assen made him just the second rider in history to reach 100 GP triumphs, with one of his idols Giacomo Agostini being the only other rider to have achieved such a feat courtesy of his incredible 122 wins.
In tribute to Rossi’s historic achievement, motogp.com today offers three videos tracking the Italian’s spectacular route to glory in the three World Championship categories over a 14 year period.
The first video, “Rossi’s Road to 100GP wins: The 125& 250cc years”, features footage of his very first race victory in the 125cc class at Brno in 1996 with Aprilia.
Also featured are his 12th career victory at Sentul in Indonesia at the end of 1997, which made him the first rider ever to achieve 11 125cc wins in one season, and victory number 26 in Rio in 1999, his ninth of that season, which gave him the points to become the youngest ever 250cc World Champion at that time.
In “Rossi’s Road to 100GP wins: The 500cc era”, fans can views clips of The Doctor’s first ever premier class success, at Donington in 2000. That victory, in just his ninth ever 500cc race and the 27th win of his career, made Rossi the first rider ever to complete the hat-trick of wins at the British circuit in all three categories.
The ‘500cc era’ video also recalls Rossi’s 2001 Suzuka triumph, which put him top of the premier class standings for the first time, and marked Honda’s 500th GP win across all three classes. The video concludes in Rio in 2001, where Rossi achieved his 39th career victory and his 11th win of that year, in the last ever 500cc race.
“Rossi’s Road to 100GP wins: The MotoGP Era”, meanwhile, gets underway with victory number 40 at Suzuka with Honda, in the first ever four-stroke MotoGP contest. Next up is win 49 at Rio in 2002, which gave Rossi his first ever ‘MotoGP’ title.
The last video continues with some additional famous victories from recent seasons. His 60th GP success was a particularly important one as Rossi scored a victory in his first race on a Yamaha (2004/Welkom, South Africa) to become the first rider to take back-to-back victories in the premier-class riding machines from two different manufacturers.
When Rossi equaled Mick Doohan’s record of 54 premier class wins, at Losail in Qatar in 2006, it was the 78th of his career in all classes. Le Mans 2008 brought Rossi level with Ángel Nieto on 90 wins, and the MotoGP Era video features that triumph along with win number 99 and a brilliant battle with team-mate Jorge Lorenzo, beating the Spaniard in his home race at Catalunya on the last corner.
With his victory at the Alice TT Assen Valentino Rossi became only the second rider ever to reach the milestone of 100 Grand Prix victories, as motogp.com documented in Monday’s video tributes to the Fiat Yamaha star.
Today we offer a selection of statistics relating to Rossi’s colourful and triumphant march to a century of GP successes, which along the way have brought him eight World titles across the three Grand Prix classes:
- The 100 victories have come from 217 Grand Prix starts – a win rate over his career of 46.1%.
Rossi has won on six different types of motorcycle: 125cc Aprilia (12 wins), 250cc Aprilia (14 wins), 500cc Honda (13 wins), 990cc Honda (20 wins), 990cc Yamaha (25 wins) and 800cc Yamaha (16 wins).
- His 41 wins riding for Yamaha is more than any other rider. The second most successful Yamaha rider is Phil Read with 39 victories.
- Rossi has won Grand Prix races at 27 different circuits. The circuits at which he has had most success are Mugello and Catalunya with nine wins at each.
- The most wins Rossi has had in a single season is 11, which he has achieved on four occasions: 1997 (125cc), 2001 (500cc), 2002 and 2005 in MotoGP.
- His 11 wins in 1997 is a record for most victories in a single season in the 125cc class.
- Rossi’s 74 race victories in the premier-class is more than any other rider in the 61-year history of Grand Prix racing.
- With his victory in Jerez this year Valentino Rossi became the first rider to achieve at least one Grand Prix victory for 14 successive seasons.
- The total length of his winning career from his first win in the 125cc race at the Czech GP in 1996 to his latest victory at Assen, is 12 years 313 days. Only four riders have had a longer winning career in Grand Prix racing: Loris Reggiani, Phil Read, Angel Nieto and Loris Capirossi.
Source: MotoGP
Citroen GT supercar concept into limited production
Citroen has decided to put the GT supercar concept into limited production, according to senior inside sources.
The project was believed to have been given the green light last week by the company’s product boss Vincent Besson.
However, only six Citroen GTs will be made, all with a price tag believed to be around £1.1 million pounds.
Designed by Takumi Yamamoto, the concept was originally built to tie in with the Gran Turismo 5 Playstation game.
However a senior Citroen source said that most of the concept’s features should make the final production version, including the carbon-fibre construction and eccentric interior details such as the copper trim.
One question mark remaining though is what motor the mid-engined GT will be powered by.
Besson has already admitted that it will either be a Ford or GM V8, with at least 500bhp, possibly allied to a paddle-shift manual 'box.
The engine source and final technical details are likely to be announced when the final production version is revealed at the Frankfurt motor show in September.
Source: AutoCar
Aston Martin "Cygnet" Concept
Toyota's revolutionary iQ platform is about to reset traditional thinking, with plans that the world's
smallest four-seater will serve as the basis for a new luxury commuter car to be exclusively built for and
sold to Aston Martin owners. Toyota Motor Europe (TME) today announced that the new "Cygnet" would
pair Aston Martin's trademark design flair with the Toyota iQ's highly compact and low-CO2 city driving
package. The commuter car will be tailored specifically to customer requirements at Aston Martin's
global headquarters in Gaydon, the United Kingdom.
'It's a great compliment that the Toyota iQ has been hand-picked by one of the world's most prestigious sports
car brands, a company with whom we also share a strong friendship. This collaboration represents a natural
pairing of strategies: a small yet spacious package, perfect for the city driver, finished off with Aston Martin's
iconic design language,' said Tadashi Arashima, CEO and President of TME. 'The Cygnet is a good choice for
the Aston Martin owner looking for that second or third car, which is luxurious and eco-conscious,' he added.
Although radically different in size and customer base, Aston Martin and Toyota are united in their corporate
philosophies of delivering superior quality, engineering excellence and innovative technology. The collaboration
is also fortunate to benefit from a strong relationship underlined by a passion for cars.
The Toyota iQ is considered a breakthrough in intelligent design. Less than three metres in length, its flexible
package can accommodate up to four people, providing owners with a new dimension of versatility. Featuring a
range of design innovations – such as its flat under-floor fuel tank and asymmetric dashboard – the iQ is
positioned as the "no compromise choice" with CO2 emissions starting as low as 99 g/km. It also offers
outstanding levels of passive and active safety equipment resulting in a Euro NCAP 5-star rating.
Despite tough market conditions for the automotive industry, the Toyota iQ has proved appealing to a wide
variety of city drivers with a taste for style, driving performance and low CO2. The Toyota iQ made its European
sales debut in January 2009. It continues to perform in line with expectation, with over 25,000 units sold to-date.
The planned collaboration with Aston Martin is a timely endorsement of the iQ's superior packaging. The
announcement marks a critical step in Toyota's longer-term planning to expand the 'iQ world' – that is, to bring
new versions of the Toyota iQ to market globally and expand the company's eco-friendly line-up.
Source: Aston Martin
2010 Honda Insight - The Insight is the most disappointing Honda Consumer Reports has tested in a long time
The new Honda Insight posted a lackluster "Good" overall road-test score in Consumer Reports' testing for the August issue. The Insight achieved an excellent 38 mpg overall in CR's tests but fell short in ride quality, handling, interior noise, acceleration, rear-seat, access and visibility.
"The Insight is the most disappointing Honda Consumer Reports has tested in a long time," said David Champion, senior director of CR's Auto Test Center. "The Insight is a noisy, stiff-riding car with clumsy handling that is nothing like the Fit on which it is based. Also, Electronic Stability Control is only available on the highline EX version."
In a ratings chart of small hatchbacks and wagons, the Insight was rated 21st out of 22 vehicles, with a road test score of 54 points. It was followed by the Dodge Caliber, which scored 49.
Two new wagons, spin-offs of popular sedans -- the Volkswagen Jetta Sportwagen and Hyundai Elantra Touring scored within a point of each other and received Very Good ratings, 80 and 79 respectively.
The Sportwagen, a new addition to the Jetta line, combines sound driving dynamics and more cargo and versatility than the sedan. It also imparts the feeling of a much more expensive vehicle. The Elantra Touring, also an extension to its line, is an affordable and practical vehicle with good fuel economy (26 mpg in CR's own fuel economy tests.)
Consumer Reports tested a total of six wagons and hatchbacks in the August issue including the improved Chevrolet HHR and the Pontiac Vibe (the virtual twin of the Toyota Matrix.) The Vibe will be discontinued this August given GM's decision to discontinue the Pontiac brand. Both the Vibe and the HHR received Very Good ratings. The test group also included the sporty Mazda3 hatchback, freshened with a new four-cylinder engine and new styling was also rated Very Good.
Prices ranged from $19,085 for the Pontiac to $24,730 for the Chevy HHR. All vehicles in the test proved to have average of better reliability in CR.
Consumer Reports also tested the Kia Soul. The Soul shares several of the same attributes of the small, boxy Scion xB, and was also rated Very Good. This is a new model so CR does not have any reliability data and cannot Recommend the Soul.
All vehicles in the test group are Recommended by Consumer Reports except for the Insight, which scored too low in CR's tests to be Recommended and the Soul, which does not have any reliability data yet. CR only Recommends vehicles that have performed well in its tests, have at least average predicted reliability based on CR's Annual Car Reliability Survey of its more than seven million print and web subscribers, and performed at least adequately if crash-tested or included in a government rollover test.
Full tests and ratings of the test group appear in the August issue of Consumer Reports, which goes on sale June 30. The reports are also available to subscribers of www.ConsumerReports.org.
The Honda Insight seats five and gets excellent fuel economy, but it's a noisy car with a stiff ride and clumsy handling. At its cornering limits, the Insight plows straight ahead early on in tight turns and the tail can slide out too quickly for stability control to completely prevent it. The Insight EX, ($21,790 Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price as tested), is powered by a 1.3-liter four-cylinder engine with a 13-hp electric motor combine for 98 hp that delivers 38 mpg overall. The continuously variable transmission performs smoothly. Unlike a full hybrid, the Insight requires the gas engine to turn whenever the car is moving. Braking is Very Good. Cargo space behind the rear seats is adequate.
The wagon version of the Volkswagen Jetta combines good driving dynamics and versatility with excellent fit and finish. The Jetta SE, ($24,324, MSRP as tested), is powered by a 170-hp, 2.5-liter, five-cylinder engine that delivers average performance but got only 23 mpg overall in CR's fuel economy tests. The six-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly and has a manual-override feature. Braking is Very Good. The cargo area is very spacious and you can fold down one or both sections of the rear seatbacks.
The Elantra Touring wagon is fairly roomy and versatile, with a nicely finished interior and lots of amenities for the money. The Touring's ride is noticeably stiffer than the sedan's ride, with some sharp impacts. The Elantra Touring wagon, ($19,475, MSRP as tested), is powered by a 138-hp, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers average performance and a respectable 26-mpg overall. The four-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly and responsively. Braking is Excellent. Folding down the 60/40 seatback makes for a fairly commodious load volume.
The Mazda3 has been one of CR's top-scoring small cars for several years, distinguished by agile handling and a good-quality interior that is laid out well. The Mazda3 had a firm, compliant ride that provided good isolation from everyday road bumps. The Mazda3 s Sport, ($20,700, MSRP as tested), is powered by a 167-hp, 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that feels smooth and refined and delivers 25 mpg overall in mixed driving. The five-speed automatic transmission shifts quickly and smoothly. Braking is Very Good. Cargo space is good behind the rear seats, and when the seatbacks are lowered the hatch encloses a good-sized cargo area.
The Pontiac Vibe is versatile, fuel-efficient, and reasonably priced. The Vibe's ride is compliant but not very steady and bumps create side-to-side rocking and even the highway ride can feel choppy. The Pontiac Vibe 1.8L, ($19,085, MSRP as tested), is powered by a 132-hp, 1.8-liter 4-cylinder engine that provides good performance and 24 mpg overall. The four-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly. Braking is Very Good. The rear is quite spacious. The cargo area is lined with hard plastic and small items slide around on it.
The Chevrolet HHR plays to 1950s design nostalgia but one drawback to its retro styling is the small and short windows, which inhibit the view out. Bumps are absorbed quite well, but the deep ruts and ridges come through as rubbery kicks. The Chevrolet HHR LT, ($24,730 MSRP), as tested is powered by a 172-hp, 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that provides good performance and 24 mpg overall. The four-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly. Braking is Very Good. The seatbacks fold down for generous cargo space.
With more than 7 million print and online subscribers, Consumer Reports is one of the most trusted sources for information and advice on consumer products and services. It conducts the most comprehensive auto-test program of any U.S. publication or Web site; the magazine's auto experts have decades of experience in driving, testing, and reporting on cars. To become a subscriber, consumers can call 1-800-234-1645. Information and articles from the magazine can be accessed online at www.ConsumerReports.org.
Honda CR-Z” – at the upcoming 2009 Tokyo Motor Show
The latest reports from the automobile industry are saying that Honda is gearing up to unveil its hunchbacked hybrid sports car – “Honda CR-Z” – at the upcoming 2009 Tokyo Motor Show in October.
Honda CR-Z, which is currently being designed and engineered in Europe, will be the successor of CRX. It will a next-generation lightweight sports car sporting a new-look grill, aggressive wedged stance, centrally mounted muffler, a rear glass hatch, and LED headlights.
According to the reports, the CR-Z is expected to be equipped with a compact four-cylinder engine smaller than 1.5L and mated to an electric motor. The CR-Z is expected to use a 1.8L engine, or it could be released in different engine variants. The CR-Z with a sub-2.0 litre petrol motor under the bonnet, driving the front wheels is also expected. The combined output for the CR-Z is expected to be around 140hp (105kW), with power sent to the front wheels.
Honda CR-Z CR-Z is expected to weigh around 1270kg. The CR-Z is expected to be released in late 2010 as a 2011 model.
Source: TopNews
Pontiacs – a 2010 HURST/Pontiac H.O. version of the G8 and a G6 convertible
Hurst Performance Vehicles, one of the most recognized and respected names in automobile history, announced that it has teamed up with newly appointed Hurst Director Emeritus and legendary performance visionary, "Doc" Watson, to build two new Special Edition Hurst/Pontiacs – a 2010 HURST/Pontiac H.O. version of the G8 and a G6 convertible. Hurst Performance President, Ron Flint, and Watson made the announcement together on Saturday at a special event held at the Sloan Museum in Flint, Michigan – the birthplace of GM.
Hurst Performance in Irvine, California, will hand-build only 52 examples of the 2010 HURST/Pontiac H.O. – a modern-day version of George Hurst's "Executive Hot Rod". These numbered cars will feature Hurst's iconic white/gold and black/gold colors along with forged alloy Hurst wheels, an exclusive Hurst shifter, supercharged engine, suspension mods and a specially trimmed interior.
Hurst will also commemorate Doc's famous Pace Cars and build ten HURST/Pontiac G6 convertibles to be used as parade and special event cars.
"Doc started all of this with George back in 1960 with Hurst Performance Research. His Hurst H.O. Pontiacs have stormed drag strips and main streets across the country for 50 years," said Hurst Chairman, Nate Shelton. "There could not be a better time to honor Doc and the legendary Pontiac marque."
Watson's contribution to the American performance landscape is unrivaled. During a 50-year career in the development, manufacturing and marketing of special vehicles, Watson brought to life more than 80 performance cars and racing vehicles, including the original Hurst Oldsmobile, the Hemi-Under-Glass and the 1972 Hurst/Pontiac SSJ. These new HURST/Pontiac's are yet another chapter in his illustrious career.
"If we combine the wisdom earned through the heritage of past Hurst vehicles with the vision of globally beneficial vehicles, we will not be living through the death of the Muscle Car," Watson explained. "Rather, we will see the birth of exciting, passion-filled performance vehicles – vehicles that will give new meaning to lean, mean, and environmentally clean machines. It's a 'new machine age,' and Hurst will be first once again."
Hurst Performance has once again partnered with the Woodhouse Automotive Family of Blair Nebraska as the exclusive Hurst Authorized Pontiac Dealer for sales and service of these exceptional vehicles.
Specifications, pricing and ordering information will be available August 1st on the Hurst website at www.hurst-performance.com.
S0urce: Hurst Press Release
TECHART at this year’s Tuner 2009 Grand Prix
Top times for TECHART at this year’s Tuner Grand Prix at the Hockenheimring race track. Behind the wheel of the TECHART GTstreet RS based on Porsche 911 GT2, racing driver Jörg Hardt left the competition with no chance and won the duel in the GT Turbo class. This meant that he was able to repeat last year’s victory. The sport auto Tuner Grand Prix is the world’s largest trial of strength in the tuning sector.
The TECHART-modified 911 GT2 won with an average lap time of 1:08.037 minutes over five laps driven around the small circuit of the Hockenheimring race track. This means that the team drove precisely 0.604 seconds faster than the team in second place, and went on to claim overall victory for all the classes entered. Thanks to modified VTG turbochargers, the engine generates 700 bhp / 515 kW at 7,000 rpm and puts down a maximum torque of 860 Nm onto the tarmac at 4,500 rpm. The car is capable of top speeds of up 350 km/h.
Besides the driving skills and high-performance engine, the decisive factor for this victory was above all the perfectly tuned suspension. In collaboration with the technology partners Bilstein and Michelin, the height-adjustable TECHART sports suspension was perfectly tuned to the circuit.
For the time trial, the TECHART team opted for high-performance Michelin Pilot Sport Cup tires on account of the summer temperatures. Running on the single-piece TECHART Formula GTS light alloy rims in the dimensions 8.5Jx20 at the front and 12Jx20 at the rear, the Michelin tires ensured outstanding grip. The winning driver, Jörg Hardt, who has been racing successfully in motor sports for years, was utterly impressed: “The car had been prepared extremely professionally for the event. The tires performed steady and kept a very high level during the whole competition”.
In addition to the victory in the GT Turbo class, Jörg Hardt and the TECHART team also performed exceptionally well in the Coupé / Cabriolet-turbo class. The TECHART GTstreet R Cabrio on the basis of the Porsche 911 Turbo Cabriolet took first place like last year. Achieving a time of 1:09.601, the car had a 3.186 second advantage over its competitors.
Jörg Hardt perfected the triumph by coming first in the SUV class. The TECHART Magnum, based on the Porsche Cayenne Turbo S, was entered into the race. Equipped with the 550 bhp of the production vehicle, an aerokit and sports air suspension module, TECHART achieved the winning time of 1:16.939 for the first time in the heavyweight class. The necessary grip was ensured by the Michelin Diamaris sport tires fitted on 22 inch TECHART Formula rims.
“With the victories also racked up this year, TECHART is underscoring its outstanding position in the automotive individualization sector”, says Marc Herdtle, Marketing Director at TECHART Automobildesign GmbH, in recognition of these achievements.
TECHNICAL DETAILS
TECHART GTstreet RS based on the Porsche 911 GT2
Car body and chassis
Front apron GT RS with carbon splitter
Side carbon flics
Aerodynamic bonnet
Headlight trims
Mirror trims
Sill panels GT
Carbon roof spoiler
Rear spoiler GT RS with winglets and carbon gurney
Rear apron GT RS with carbon diffuser, air outlet and carbon airwings
LED day driving lighting
TECHART Threaded chassis
TECHART Nose lift system
Wind tunnel values
10 kg downforce on front axle and back axle at 140 km/h
Engine/exhaust
Performance kit TA 097/T2.2, 515 KW / 700 hp at 7000 rpm and 860 Nm
Torque at 4500 rpm consists of:
TECHART Sports air filter
TECHART Engine optical package
TECHART Pressure sensors
TECHART Carbon sports suction pipes
TECHART High performance intercooler
TECHART Manifold set
TECHART Turbocharger
TECHART Engine electronics
TECHART Sports exhaust (valve system)
Wheel/ tyre combination
TECHART Formula III forged light alloy wheels, one-component, front 8.5Jx20 with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup tyres, back 12Jx20.
Source: Techart
2010 Jaguar XF Supercharged
Jaguar today announced the introduction of the 2010 Jaguar XF Supercharged, the fourth and newest member of its acclaimed XF lineup. The vehicle, a mid-year release, is powered by a 470 hp version of the 5.0-liter supercharged AJ-V8 Gen III engine that debuted at this year's Detroit Auto Show. The XF Supercharged will go on sale in October 2009, and will be priced starting at $68,000 MSRP.
"The Jaguar XF Supercharged will offer consumers a compelling luxury sedan choice with benchmark handling ability and truly memorable performance," says Mike O'Driscoll, Managing Director, Jaguar Cars. "This new luxury performance XF Supercharged sedan builds on the tremendous momentum Jaguar has achieved by introducing beautiful fast cars such as the XK sports car, the XF and the XKR and XFR models."
At-A-Glance Highlights:
* 5.0-liter Supercharged AJ-V8 Gen III engine with 470hp (a 12% increase over the 4.2-liter 2009MY supercharged XF) and 424 lb/ft of torque
* 0-60 mph time of 4.9 seconds
* Adaptive Dynamics (the latest in computer controlled continuously variable damping) and Active Differential Control (electronically controlled rear differential) are standard
* Upgraded ventilated disc brakes
* Interior features include: contrast color twin needle stitching on the instrument panel and door top rolls, Jaguar Suedecloth Premium headlining, Rich Oak veneer (unique to XF Supercharged only), 440W Bowers & Wilkins surround sound system, HD radio, and heated steering wheel
Exterior features include: unique 20" five triple-spoke Selena-style alloy wheels, "Supercharged" badging on rear trunk lid, quad polished exhaust tailpipes, and silver-gray painted brake calipers
Globally launched at Frankfurt Motor Show in 2007, the XF line has set new standards for the next generation of luxury sports cars. The XF Supercharged expands the already highly acclaimed model line that includes:
* 4.2-liter naturally aspirated XF (300 hp) with a $52,000 MSRP
* 5.0-liter naturally aspirated XF Premium (385 hp) with a $57,000 MSRP
* 5.0-liter supercharged XF Supercharged (470 hp) with a $68,000 MSRP
* 5.0-liter supercharged XFR (510 hp) with a $80,000 MSRP
Source: Jaguar PRESS RELEASE
New Restyled 207 Peugeot
* New Peugeot 207 Range to be launched in August
* Twelve different power-plants
* Revised exterior and interior styling
* New standard equipment
* Low CO 2 emissions
With three body shapes, hatchback, SW and CC, and twelve different power-plant options, the new 207 will further strengthen the 207's position as Europe 's top selling small car, a position it has held for the last two consecutive years, 2007 and 2008.
In the UK the 207 is also a big success with over 167,000 vehicles sold since its introduction in June 2006.
The 207 has a deserved reputation for great style, and in August it becomes even more visually appealing due to the introduction of a number of new styling features:
Exterior Styling Changes:
* A redesigned front which combines the car's natural dynamism with a softer visual look
* Increased use of exterior body colouring and chrome detailing
* Spectacular new rear lights which use panels of light emitting diodes (LEDs) on the hatchback and CC models
A more luxurious Passenger Compartment with:
* New trims and detailing which place the emphasis on perceived quality, comfort and dynamism
* New instrument panel designs with a more modern look and visual appeal
As well as a host of styling changes, the new 207 also benefits from the expertise of Peugeot's engineers to further reduce fuel consumption and emissions on each new model the marque introduces.
The new 207 benefits from:
* Particularly fuel efficient engines with reduced greenhouse gas emissions
* “Very low fuel consumption” optimised not only aerodynamically but also by operation of the engine itself and the rolling resistance of the vehicle, allowing CO 2 emissions to be reduced to 99 g/km
* The gradual introduction of engines meeting the Euro5 emission standard
* Introduction of a gear change indicator on manual gearbox models to encourage the driver to drive in a more environmentally efficient way.
The introduction of the new 207 will also see a range of new standard equipment fitted to the vehicles to enhance both the comfort of all users, the driving experience and the safety capabilities of the vehicle.
* Peugeot Connect USB with Bluetooth, in-car entertainment system
* One-touch direction indicator function for safe lane changes
* Remote controlled window closure, via the plip unit on hatchback and SW models.
* One-touch operation of the driver's electric window on the 207 CC
With these developments the 207 family of vehicles further affirms its distinctive appeal in each of its available body shapes:
The 207 hatchback, three or five doors: Elegant and user-friendly, dynamic and sporty, it offers a unique blend of comfort and driveability as well as remarkable versatility….
The 207 SW and SW Outdoor: An attractively styled vehicle, a bright interior and remarkable practicality: all major benefits with, for the Outdoor version, an added taste of adventure…
The 207 CC: Europe 's top selling cabriolet, offering attractive styling with the dynamism and safety that are the foundation of its appeal
Details of individual model pricing and specification will be communicated in separate releases next month.
Source: Peugeot
Sunday, June 28, 2009
Jeremy Clarkson rapped over 'tasteless' scout joke
He's done it again: Jeremy Clarkson
The Top Gear presenter, with co-star James May, offended both the Scout Association and the Catholic Church while reviewing the Skoda Scout car.
May, 46, said: "I suppose every summer it goes off to the country somewhere and is touched inappropriately." Clarkson, 49, added: "No, no, James, that's the Skoda Catholic Church."
Simon Carter, a spokesman for the Scout Association, said it had submitted a formal complaint to the BBC. He said the remarks were "tasteless," adding: "We have had dozens of calls and emails from
Scout members not happy at all. It's a shame they decided to have a dig at two organisations that do a lot of good in the community. And there is no real excuse because [Top Gear] is not live and is clearly scripted, so producers have heard it and given it the nod anyway."
Media watchdog Ofcom confirmed it had received complaints following the remarks made on Sunday night's show, watched by 7.5million viewers. But the BBC denied it had received a complaint from the Scout Association.
Source: thisislondon
The luxury automotive brand from Japan will also be giving visitors to the Festival a sneak preview of the new G37 Convertible which goes sale in UK
The Infiniti Essence concept car, shown for the first time four months ago in Geneva, will conclude its pan-European tour at the 2009 Goodwood Festival of Speed. But Essence isn't the only Infiniti to be making its UK debut. The luxury automotive brand from Japan will also be giving visitors to the Festival a sneak preview of the new G37 Convertible which goes on sale in the UK this September. Unlike Essence, unfortunately.
The Essence concept was created as a celebration of Infiniti and its 20 years history as a creator of performance cars. But equally it is an inspiring exploration into the brand's future ... one that includes launching in the UK. The dramatic design, technology and performance statement is a 600PS petrol/electric hybrid coupe with rear-wheel drive. It will be on display in Goodwood's FoS-TECH pavilion and also on the famous Goodwood Hillclimb where it will perform in public for the first time.
Joining Essence on the Hillclimb – and later in the Sunday Times Supercar paddock – will be the V6 powered G37 Convertible in right-hand drive form, the first example ever produced. The car's appearance at Goodwood will be particularly momentous for the two British Infiniti engineers who will drive it as they have worked on the Infiniti Europe project since it started. Offered in a choice of two comprehensively equipped models, both featuring a metal three-piece folding roof, the 320PS G37 Convertible has been designed without compromise to look as beautiful with the top up as it does down. Which is hopefully the position where it will stay for the entirety of the weekend... 
Source: Infinity2009 Zolfe Classic GTC4 - A Powertorque Engineering
Zolfe Orange, the latest all new British sports car, is making its production debut at Autosports 2009 on the Evo Magazine stand. Combining stunning good looks with lightweight design, the Zolfe is set to challenge more established competitors in this market sector. The front engined rear wheel drive car will provide vice free handling and astonishing performance. The fruits of a new collaboration between Midlands business entrepreneur and car enthusiast Nic Strong and former Caterham Technical Director, Jez Coates, the Zolfe will be available to purchase at the show.
Assembling the Dream Team
Zolfe’s key partners include Stadco, MTCe, Simpact, AP Racing, Avon Tyres, Powertorque Engineering and KN Engineering.
Stadco
Stadco are a tier one supplier to the high volume car industry with customers that include Land Rover, Jaguar, Aston Martin and Ford. Stadco have engineered and set-up North American production of the Ford GT, the recent re-incarnation of the multiple Le Man winning icon, the Ford GT40. The GT’s aluminium space frame is testimony to Stadco’s wide ranging capability in vehicle structure design.
Ergonomics
Zolfe has taken full advantage of Stadco’s extensive whole vehicle development experience to engineer several critical aspects of the Orange. The original design has been benchmarked against competitor vehicles including the Audi TT and Porsche Boxster, to ensure the production version can accommodate a 95 percentile male complete with racing helmet. The seating position ergonomics and relationships with steering wheel, gearstick etc. conforms to strict EEC standards and all legal requirements in terms of vision angles.
Source: Zolfe Press Release
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