Thursday, February 25, 2010

Geneva Preview: Techart GTStreet R based on Porsche 911 Turbo


The TECHART GTStreet program has been recognised for years as a success formula with its sights firmly set on dynamics and incorporating racing engineering to create vehicles that stand for pure driving pleasure as well as full on-track capability. The latest example is the GTStreet R based on the 911 Turbo; it is now undergoing its world premiere. Its road performance statistic, 660hp and 860Nm, is highly impressive - developed by the TECHART engineers who are driven by the ambition of not submitting compromises. And just as uncompromising is the vehicle's suitability for everyday use, thanks to its day-driving light and integrated TECHART nose-lift system.


High-End Performance

The impressive performance is primarily down to the TECHART TA 097/T3.1 performance kit, which raises the power of the standard model from 500 to 660 hp. At 4,500rpm, this means that a maximum torque of 860Nm can be transmitted to the permanent four-wheel drive system. TECHART's sport clutch and modifications to the transmission ratio of the standard 6-speed gearbox results in the GTStreet R's sprint performance of 0 to 100km/h in 3.5 seconds. The permanent dynamic propulsion only reaches its limit at 345km/h.

The essential power driver of the vehicle design is the TECHART GTStreet R aerodynamic kit. The significantly lowered front apron with carbon splitter provides downthrust on the front axle and improved airflow to the brakes and intercooler. The adjustable rear spoiler with air inlets and rear apron with integrated carbon diffuser contribute to the high level of downthrust on the rear axle while ensuring an optimum drag coefficient. Handling in extreme conditions is significantly smoother as a result. The TECHART multifunctional day-driving light system, integrated in the front apron, has E approval and fulfils ECE R87 regulations. It is much more than just a sophisticated design feature – it also makes an all-round constant contribution to safety, both day and night. The LED system unit integrates the day-driving light, sidelights, parking lights and indicators in a single housing, and merges harmonically with the general design of the vehicle's front end. The output intensity of the light is automatically modified in line with the selected driving light circuit.


Maximum grip and everyday suitability

The TECHART Formula 5-spoke light alloy wheels in dimensions of 19" and 20" transfer the enormous level of available power securely to the tarmac. For optimum road holding, TECHART recommends fitting either Conti Sport Contact 3 or Michelin Pilot Sport Cup Plus tires. The TECHART VarioPlus threaded chassis design means that it is possible to adjust the chassis height by up to 25 millimetres, to suit the route conditions. The TECHART nose-lift system allows the driver to raise the vehicle by up to 60 millimetres at the front axle, at the touch of a button, to avoid unpleasant contact with kerb edges or steeply inclined upward road surfaces.


High end down to the last detail

Passion and love of detail – the exclusive TECHART character is also reflected in the interior of the sports car. TECHART's complete leather furnishings, including the door and side panels, emanate a unique feel, in combination with the delicately fashioned and custom-coloured decorative stitching on the centre console and bucket seats, and in other places too. Individual decorative components made of carbon fibre, the aluminium pedals, and the illuminated entrance sills serve to further enhance the uniquely athletic appearance of the interior. All in all, TECHART offers a virtually unlimited degree of freedom when it comes to customising the interior – with passion down to the last detail.


Keeping 680 hp tamed for two weeks

TECHART is displaying the GTStreet R based on the Porsche 911 Turbo in black and phantom grey at the Geneva Motor Show. Although the vehicle is forced to remain stationary during the two-week show, the incredible power of the 660bhp athlete is quite evident. The GTR front spoiler is seamlessly incorporated in the shape of the bumper, conveying its pure sporting character the moment you first look at it. The black leather interior is further proof that TECHART knows a few things about convincing design. The car's uncompromising athleticism is immediately visible from the high-grip, hand-stitched TECHART 3-spoke sport steering wheel, the sport pedals and TECHART gear lever, and further enhanced by the delicate, red stitching.

Another element which is GTStreet R through and through are the TECHART leather sport seats, which not only ensure an uncommonly high level of comfort and excellent side support, but are also fashioned from high-class materials. Such as the hand-made seat covering made of fine and durable leather and the backrests finished in the vehicle colour with the GTstreet R logo.


TECHART Concept One – Design Study Individualization Porsche Panamera

Individuality and personality, passion and perfection are concepts that substantially stand for TECHART. Yet TECHART is also defined by innovation and richness of ideas, by identification and instinct. At the 80th Motor-Show in Geneva, TECHART proves this once again by presenting the world premiere of the Concept One individualization study. Thomas Behringer, general manager of TECHART Automobildesign GmbH, says: "Concept One provides an exclusive outlook on our second individualization level for the Porsche Panamera model range, which is noticeably different from the first subtle program. The study is defined by concepts such as strength, individuality and self-consciousness, and clearly reflects our customers' requirements for uniqueness and sportiness. The Motor-Show in Geneva is precisely the perfect platform for presenting the design concept to the world's public."


Impressive exterior

In OE quality and fully manufactured from high-quality PU-RIM, the carrara white exterior package convinces owing to its massive and white characteristics. The front apron with integrated air inlets self-consciously emphasizes the design of the sporty 4-seater and also provides an improved air flow of the charge air intercoolers as well as improved brake cooling. A highlight is the distinct, extravagantly designed bonnet with inwrought air outlets. Powerful fenders and side skirts ensure a seamless transition among the wide wheel arches. Trim strips and elegant trim frames in the windows show the individualization down to the smallest detail typical of TECHART. The rear apron with integrated air openings and matching diffuser, together with the height-adjustable rear spoiler, rounds off the distinct exterior design. The double flow, black tail pipe of the TECHART stainless steel sports exhaust system also provide sporty accents in the striking rear of the vehicle. 22-inch TECHART Formula III forged light alloy wheels in exclusive dull platinum gray with Continental Sport Contact 3 tires fit seamlessly into the Porsche Panamera color combination and underline its self-conscious appearance.

A look under the bonnet also knows how to convince the study. The TECHART engine optic package with carbon fiber engine covering, TECHART logotype and flash red coating already makes the visitor to the trade fair stand feel the power of the Panamera Turbo – increased once again by TECHART with a power thrust of up to 150 hp.


Convincing peak performances

The overall design concept for the exterior with a 21-mm wider front axis and a 42-mm wider rear axis compared to the serial model is convincing owing to the TECHART-typical suitability for everyday use. The multifunctional TECHART daylight driving headlight system contributes essentially to the active safety of the driver by combining daylight headlights, parking lights and turn signal lights as an LED system unit in one common housing that seamlessly fits into the vehicle front design. The intensity of the lights adjusts automatically to the selected headlight circuit. Additionally, the headlight can also be dimmed for improving the effect of the turn signal lights, even while turning off.


TECHART sets standards in the interior

TECHART sets standards in the finishing of automobile interiors. As in the areas of technical revision, aerodynamic optimization and exterior design, the passion for perfection is here once again in the sports car that can make the individual ideas of the TECHART customers a reality. TECHART's saddlery, well-known for valuable manufactured work, convinces in the study's interior through its unique internal finishing. The TECHART full leather finish in the cocoa and white color combination, leather applications on trim parts in cerbero as well as manually processed decorative stitching in phosphor green masterly reflect the unique external appearance in the interior as well. White carpeting in the vehicle's interior and trunk, the roof liner in alcantara and the white face with phosphor green digits complete the unusual individualization.


TECHART's top-class interior options

For the first time in the Concept One Study, TECHART presents the 3-spoke PDK sports steering wheel with shift paddles. The driver can now shift one gear upwards with one hand and one gear downwards with the other one.

In addition, the study also shows some exclusive extras: A 10.2-inch ceiling monitor with integrated DVD player, a rear center console and two high-quality folding tables built into the front seats will also help pass the time in the back seat of the Panamera – whether for entertainment or work – this is left to the customer's personal imagination – as is almost everything at TECHART.
Source: Techart;More Photos

SHELBY GT500CR PROTOTYPE MAKES FIRST APPEARANCE IN VEGAS


Classic Recreations 1967 G.T.500CR makes first public appearance in Las Vegas the same weekend as the NASCAR Shelby American Race


Yukon, Okla. (Feb 25th, 2010) - Less than four months after custom coachbuilder Classic Recreations announced the Officially-Licensed 1967 Shelby G.T.500CR continuation car program at the 2009 SEMA Show in Las Vegas, the first prototype made its debut in the same city but with a very different setting.


Details of the reborn supercar have been a closely guarded secret, but on February 25th, 2010, the first GT500CR prototype was photographed near the Shelby American facility in Las Vegas, prior to an all-Shelby weekend where car owners and NASCAR fans gathered to celebrate the legendary mark during the NASCAR Shelby American GT350 stock car race.


The G.T.500CR is the first official 1967 Shelby Mustang continuation car ever built, and each hand-built vehicle features a 427 cubic inch (7.0L) engine, model specific bodywork, custom paint and hand-stitched upholstery.
Every has an official Shelby serial number, badges and will be included in the Shelby World Registry. The prototype that appeared in Las Vegas is the 545 horsepower Performance Model, featuring a fuel injected, naturally aspirated engine, modern coil-over suspension with rack-and-pinion steering and more.


About Classic Recreations

Classic Recreations founder Jason Engel, and his company's team of skilled technicians and craftsmen, have been modifying and custom fabricating high-performance vehicles for more than 10 years. Each built-to-order G.T.500CR takes approximately four months (nearly 2,500 man hours) of painstaking assembly. Find out more about how to get your own hand built vehicle at www.1967fastback.com.


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Official: Lexus CT 200h


The new Lexus CT 200h is the first full hybrid vehicle to be launched in the premium compact segment. Entering production in late 2010 and set for sale worldwide, the full hybrid model will provide a new gateway to the Lexus range and attract new, younger customers to the brand.

The CT 200h was designed and developed with the European market in mind. Lexus's first five-door compact car, its size, packaging, full hybrid technology and low emissions fully address the requirements of discerning, environment-conscious customers in a key market sector. At the same time, it does not compromise the quality, refinement and driving pleasure that are the hallmarks of every Lexus.

KEY POINTS
  • Lexus's first premium compact model
  • Lexus Hybrid Drive powertrain with 1.8-litre VVT-i petrol engine and powerful but compact electric motor
  • Full hybrid system with selectable EV mode for emissions-free electric running
  • Further selectable ECO, NORMAL and SPORT driving modes
  • ECVT intelligent electronic continuously variable transmission
  • Expected to deliver class-leading CO2 emissions
  • Significantly lower NOx emissions than equivalent diesel engines and almost no particulates
  • Long, 2,600mm wheelbase ensures excellent accommodation for everyone on board
  • Debut at Geneva motor show prior to worldwide sales launch in late 2010


Exterior and interior design

The production-ready CT 200h retains strong visual links to the LF-Ch concept Lexus unveiled at the 2009 Frankfurt motor show. Its styling marks a powerful evolution of Lexus's L-finesse design philosophy with a distinctive, sharp-edged look that sets it apart from its premium compact rivals.

The exterior is styled for maximum aerodynamic efficiency and minimum wind noise. The strong front grille, directly referencing the LF-Ch concept sits over a full-width bumper and air dam. The headlamp units, positioned higher than the grille (a signature feature of L-finesse design), incorporate LED daytime running lights.

In profile, the steeply raked windscreen, long, flowing roofline and Lexus slingshot window graphic combine to create an elegant and distinctive silhouette. The front and rear corners have been pulled in tight and the wings are styled to improve airflow down the sides of the vehicle.

At the rear, the trailing edge of the roof overhangs a wide, wraparound rear window to create a seamless, integrated spoiler. A pronounced step in the tailgate section flows from the shoulders of the rear wheelarches and is anchored by a tail lamp design that displays the L-shaped motif that Lexus first introduced on the current LS model.

The interior combines superior ergonomics with extensive use of metallic finishes and dark, soft-touch surfaces.

Lexus has retained the asymmetrical dashboard design seen in the LF-Ch show car. Based on the Future Lexus Interior concept, the dashboard is split into an upper Display Zone, with an eight-inch LCD multi-display screen; and a lower Operation Zone, with the shift lever and other controls such as Lexus's Remote Touch multi-function controller.

In keeping with the car's performance, the driving position is set low, with a highly supportive driver's seat. The instrument binnacle houses large, twin dials; in SPORT mode, the hybrid indicator in the binnacle functions as a tachometer and the ambient lighting turns from blue to red. The two-mode switch ring and a spotlight in the centre cluster also light up in red, changing the whole atmosphere of the cabin.

In spite of its compact, efficient design, the CT 200h offers a roomy interior. The 2,600mm wheelbase allows for front and rear passenger accommodation that is among the most spacious in the segment. Luggage capacity is 345 litres, increasing to 700 litres with the rear seats lowered.


Lexus Hybrid Drive

The Lexus Hybrid Drive system in the CT 200h combines a 1.8-litre VVT-i petrol engine with a powerful electric motor. Drivers have the choice of four selectable drive modes: ECO and NORMAL place the emphasis on efficiency and comfort, while SPORT focuses on dynamic performance.

Unlike mild hybrid systems used by other manufacturers, the CT 200h also has an EV (electric vehicle) mode that allows for ultra-quiet running on the electric motor alone, resulting in zero fuel consumption and CO2, NOx and particulate emissions. The car is capable of running in EV mode for up to 1.2 miles at speeds up to 28mph.


Chassis and suspension

The CT 200h is built on a new platform with a dedicated double wishbone and trailing arm rear suspension system. It has been developed specifically to combine the ride comfort expected of a Lexus with superior driving involvement and handling agility.

Several elements in the MacPherson strut design have been exclusively developed for the mode, including the coil springs and shock absorbers, and a new front anti-roll bar has been designed to deliver improved roll rigidity.

The double wishbone rear suspension is exclusive to the CT 200h and incorporates a lightweight trailing arm. The springs and shocks are positioned separately to minimise intrusion into the loadspace floor.
Source: Lexus;More Photos