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Showing posts with label 2007. Show all posts
Showing posts with label 2007. Show all posts

2007 Buick Riviera Concept Coupe

(from General Motors Press Release) World premiere at Auto Shanghai 2007: Buick Riviera - Stunning Coupe Concept Unveiled in Shanghai.

2007 Buick Riviera Concept Coupe2007 Buick Riviera Concept Coupe 22007 Buick Riviera Concept Coupe 32007 Buick Riviera Concept Coupe 42007 Buick Riviera Concept Coupe 52007 Buick Riviera Concept Coupe 62007 Buick Riviera Concept Coupe 7* China-Designed Gullwing Coupe For China's Global Auto Show
* Preview To Buick's New International Design Language
* Buick Returns Riviera Nameplate After Eight Years
* "It's Not East, Not West ... It's Buick"

SHANGHAI - The Buick Riviera, a stunning concept car designed to showcase Buick's new global design direction, made its global debut today at Auto Shanghai 2007.

The gullwing Riviera concept coupe was developed with global design input by the Pan Asia Technical Automotive Center (PATAC) in China, a design and engineering joint venture between General Motors and Shanghai Automotive Industry Corporation (SAIC).

The Riviera was introduced today by Rick Wagoner, GM Chairman and CEO, and Hu Maoyuan, SAIC Chairman.

The Riviera has been engineered to accommodate a new hybrid system that will go into production at Shanghai GM, GM's flagship joint venture with SAIC, in 2008.

The fuel-efficient car, which will feature several technological and manufacturing advances, represents the latest achievement of GM and its partners in the promotion and development of alternative propulsion technologies in China.

According to Ed Welburn, vice president, GM Global Design, "Developing and launching the Riviera in China underscores the diversity, strength and depth of the GM global design network. It also reflects PATAC's growing role within the GM Design family and China's significance as the world's largest Buick market."

The Riviera also marks the return of a renowned Buick nameplate after an eight-year hiatus, having sold more than 1.1 million units in the United States between 1963 and 1999.

The Buick Riviera, with its tightly stretched carbon fiber body panels, combination of positive and negative curves, strong front and rear identities and gullwing doors, captures the essence of Buick classics, Welburn said, while presenting a thoroughly 21st century design.

"The Riviera concept certainly lived up to the nameplate's reputation," Welburn said.

"We developed the Riviera to communicate the global design vocabulary of the Buick brand and set the stage for General Motors' design, engineering and manufacturing centers to work together on the next generation of Buick mid-size luxury cars."

According to James Shyr, PATAC Design Director, the Riviera's enticing curves and 'earth and water' interior tones are drawn from diverse inspirations including classic Buicks, ancient Chinese artifacts and modern electronic icons. The car, inside and out, communicates universal beauty - a look that transcends cultural or national boundaries.

"Designing this car made us realize how small the world could be. It's not East. It's not West. It's not the United States or China. It's Buick," Shyr said.

© Source: article on seriouswheels
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2007 Audi Cross Coupe Quattro Study

(from Audi Press Release) The compact performance SUV Audi Cross Coupe quattro

2007 Audi Cross Coupe Quattro Study2007 Audi Cross Coupe Quattro Study 22007 Audi Cross Coupe Quattro Study 32007 Audi Cross Coupe Quattro Study 42007 Audi Cross Coupe Quattro Study 52007 Audi Cross Coupe Quattro Study 62007 Audi Cross Coupe Quattro Study 7At the Shanghai Motor Show (20 - 28 April 2007) Audi will present a study that defines a new segment in the field of crossover vehicles. The Audi Cross Coupe quattro combines the design and dynamism of a compact premium sports car with the spaciousness and versatility of a four-seat sport utility vehicle (SUV). Innovative technical solutions show new ways of achieving efficiency, driving pleasure and comfort in a manner that is typical of Audi. The Audi Cross Coupe quattro: a car whose visual appearance clearly tells you what it is capable of and whose engineering matches this standard – on all roads, under all conditions.

The silhouette is typical Audi; the design of the study, painted in Liquid Silver, is highly reminiscent of the sporty models produced by the Ingolstadt brand. The proportions and the large 20" wheels point clearly towards the offroad potential of the Cross Coupe quattro. A new element is the fabric folding roof, which, when it is open, gives optimum levels of headroom and fresh air. The hood is opened and closed electrically.

The transversely installed four-cylinder inline TDI engine with common-rail fuel injection and piezo injectors is a completely new development. With power output of 204 bhp and 400 Nm of torque, it gives the vehicle a sporty performance and a surprising degree of efficiency. On average the ultra-modern 2.0 TDI needs just 5.9 litres of diesel per 100 km. The diesel particulate filter and Bluetec system reduce soot and nitric oxide emissions effectively. Even today, the Audi Cross Coupe quattro satisfies the emissions standards of the future.

The quattro permanent four-wheel drive system is a matter of course on an Audi with offroad potential. A Haldex clutch ensures that traction is precisely distributed according to the situation. The sporty Audi S tronic dual-clutch gearbox executes gearshifts in a matter of milliseconds.

The running gear, featuring a McPherson-strut front axle and a four-link rear axle is perfect for sporty and agile handling that retains a high degree of stability and makes cornering distinctly fun. As an additional quality, the driving comfort of the running gear impresses on all types of road and in rough terrain, meeting even the standards expected of a vehicle in a higher class. Ceramic brake discs promise excellent, non-fading deceleration. 20" wheels give the Cross Coupe quattro the ground clearance required.

Numerous electronic systems support the driver. The Audi drive select system makes it possible to preselect three highly individual configurations for the engine, gearbox, steering and adaptive shock absorbers. The result: a car that can be enjoyed in three completely different ways.

Besides the standard "dynamic" drive select mode and the "sport" setting, the Audi Cross Coupe also has the "efficiency" driving program. Here, the engine map and the shift points are modified to support a particularly economical driving style. In addition, the system deactivates components that are particularly energy-hungry, for example the air-conditioning compressor.

Another innovation is the MMI control panel, which is operated by a touch pad. The monitor of the system employs, for the first time, dual-view technology. The system can produce different images for the driver and front-seat passenger. These images are only visible when viewed from a specific angle. This allows the driver to read data from the on-board computer while the front passenger watches a TV programme, listening to the sound through headphones.

The sound system with the prominent extending tweeters sets a new infotainment standard in the class. The ambient lighting with numerous light sources gives the interior a stylish ambience, even at night.

© Source: article on insideline
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2007 Twike

(from Twike)

Futuristic design, forward-looking technology.

Low energy consumption and high efficiency.

Piloting a TWIKE is the revolutionary driving experience.

TWIKE -tomorrow's mobility for today's people.

2007 Twike2007 Twike 2Intelligence on three wheels

The TWIKE captivates you with its innovative design and on the road performance. With a top speed of 55 miles per hour and a range of up to 90 miles, whether for work or play, open convertible top in the summer, or buttoned up warm and dry in the face of wind and rain and even snow, your trusty TWIKE takes you where you want to go.

Joystick steering: Simple intuitive, and fun!

With the joystick you have complete fingertip control of steering, acceleration, turn signals, and brakes, all in one hand. Cruise control provides for a relaxed and energy saving ride.

The design: sleek and elegant

The TWIKEs aerodynamic shape is as efficient flowing through the air as it is pleasing to the eye, and the soft convertible top adds to the fun of driving. Different models, options, and colors offer room for individual expression.

The TWIKE battery: powerful and enduring

With 336 volts and up to 17 amp hours of power, the battery provides for fast acceleration, hill climbing strength, and long range. High technology for eco-friendly locomotion.

The computer: Monitoring system for safety and information

The on-board computer passes the pilots commands on to the TWIKEs electronic brain. The digital display informs the pilot about battery charge, range, speed, and much more

The electric motor: Strong and Efficient

The high performance AC motor converts energy efficiently into motion, and the intelligent control system provides for slip-free braking and acceleration even on icy roads. And through the magic of regenerative braking, the motor can also convert motion back into energy, effectively refueling the battery whenvever the vehicle decelerates.

The hybrid drive: fitness through pedaling - a true sports car

The TWIKE ACTIVE combines an electric motor with a pedal drive, in a unique system that converts muscle power directly into motion, while allowing electric power to assist instantly and at any time. This new exo-bionic synergy between person and machine fulfills the desire for freedom and independence, while still allowing movement through space with efficiency and quickness. Time spent powering the TWIKE trains the muscles, boosts the circulation, and sharpens the mind.

Extreme efficiency: Responsibility for the Future

The unrivalled efficiency of about one kilowatt hour of electricity used per one hundred miles travelled means an ultra low energy cost of far less than one cent per mile. And driving a TWIKE becomes even more eco-friendly if the power to charge it comes from renewable resources. As a zero emissions electric vehicle, the TWIKE may be eligible for federal, state, and local tax credits and incentives in your area.

-The TWIKE Manufacturer, Germany, www.twike.com ,
-Director of North American Operations: Mike Patterson, www.twike.us

The TWIKE Battery

The TWIKE can be fitted with different battery types. The NiCd batteries offer an economical relationship between capacity, power, and weight. Facts like quick chargeability, high capacity at temperatures between -10 and 45C, and long lifespan are the advantages of this type.
The NiCd battery offers a maximum range of 90km and is the most robust and durable battery today. If you need a range of more than 100km per charge you have the option of using the new NiMH battery.
The TWIKE battery modules work on a high voltage level. 280 cells in series provide a net voltage of 336V. The reliability and endurance of the modules is achieved through an optimal control and monitoring system. The on-board computer uses five different charging phases to always ensure maximal battery capacity. Computer and battery management system communicate permanently and transmit the data to the digital display.

The range depends on several factors like speed, weight, road conditions, and weather. The range of the TWIKE ACTIVE also depends on your own fitness. By using your muscles you can extend the range by 5-20%. In extreme conditions the actual range can be higher or lower than the given values.

Technical data:

Type: Three wheeled vehicle, convertible, two seater
Registration: motorcycle. ZEV
Maximum speed: 55 mph Range per charge: Up to 90 miles, depending upon battery type
Charging: 120v or 240v
Economy: The electric equivalent of 250 to 500 miles per gallon
Drive Motor: 336V, 3kW, asynchronous motor
Weight: 520 pounds empty, 990 pounds maximum loaded
Dimensions: 9 long x 4 wide x 4 high
Luggage space: sixteen cubic feet
Construction: Aluminum alloy space frame with thermoplastic body
Price: between ~ 18,000 and ~30,000 , depending on range and exterior

© Source: article on seriouswheels
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2007 Porsche Cayenne S Transsyberia

(from Porsche Press Release) The Specialist for Long-Distance Rallies: the Cayenne S Transsyberia.

2007 Porsche Cayenne S Transsyberia2007 Porsche Cayenne S Transsyberia 22007 Porsche Cayenne S Transsyberia 32007 Porsche Cayenne S Transsyberia 42007 Porsche Cayenne S Transsyberia 5Porsche is adding yet another highlight to the Company's wide range of customer sports activities: the Porsche Cayenne S Transsyberia based on the new Porsche Cayenne S and serving as the perfect vehicle especially for long-distance rallies.

This ultra-sporting offroader is making its debut in the Transsyberia Rally taking contestants from Moscow all the way though Siberia to Ulaanbaatar in Mongolia from 2-17 August.

The Porsche Cayenne is well-known and admired for its outstanding onroad qualities in the SUV segment. Now the second generation, which is making its debut at Porsche Centers the world over at this very moment, moves up this benchmark to an even higher standard. The new power units with direct gasoline injection, for example, provide even more power and performance on less fuel, cutting fuel consumption by up to 15 per cent versus the for­mer models.

Another highlight is Porsche's new PDDC Dynamic Chassis Control featuring two active anti-­roll bars to almost completely eliminate body sway in bends.

Off the beaten track, the new Cayennes are naturally also on home ground, maximum axle articulation ensured by PDDC when driving offroad serving to further improve the already superior traction offered by the electronically controlled all-wheel drive.

Last year two private teams participated in the Transsyberia Rally for the first time with the Porsche Cayenne S, finishing first and second in their very first attempt. Attracted by the successful participation of these two cars, Porsche has obviously become aware of the event and, in response, now offers the dyed-in-the-wool Cayenne driver the option to enter motor­sport successfully with this outstanding model.

To ensure such superiority in motorsport, Porsche has enhanced the already very good off­road qualities of the Cayenne to an even higher standard, developing a special model sui­ted particularly for successful participation in long-distance rallies. Precisely this is why the new Cayenne S Transsyberia being built from the beginning in a small series of just 26 units comes, inter alia, with extra-rough special offroad tyres, a safety cage, a shorter final drive ratio, a transverse lock, a reinforced, even larger underfloor cover, as well as beefed-up track control arms on the front axle. At 385 bhp (283 kW), engine output of the eight-cylinder re­mains unchanged.

Now sporting, ambitious Porsche customers will be participating at the wheel of a Cayenne S Transsyberia in one of the last adventures in the world on four wheels – the Transsyberia Rally. From 2-17 August, they will be following the route of this very demanding orientation rally from Moscow all the way through Siberia to the finish line in Ulaanbaatar in Mongolia. In all, they will be covering almost 6,200 kilometres or 3,850 miles on public roads, gravel tracks and the toughest trial paths, even crossing rivers and taking special tests in the Gobi Desert. And while navigation is perhaps the biggest challenge on the long stages of the Rally, it is particularly the driver's personal skill and, of course, the qualities of the car that count in the special trials on tracks closed to the public.

© Source: article on seriouswheels
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2007 Porsche Cayman S

(from Porsche Press Release) ENHANCED PERFORMANCE: 2007 PORSCHE® CAYMAN™ S

Larger engine, bigger brakes and more boost dynamic capabilities

To take full advantage of its more rigid body structure and its expanded dynamic potential, the 2007 Porsche Cayman S is equipped with a large and powerful 3.4-liter, horizontally opposed six-cylinder engine. By unleashing this 295-horsepower engine in a lightweight but extremely stiff chassis built on nimble suspension, the 2007 Porsche Cayman S establishes a new benchmark in the two-seat sports coupe category.

New for 2007 is a revised an updated Tiptronic® S automatic transmission, a standard Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) and optional new 19-inch wheels with the same design as the 2007 911® Turbo.

The Cayman S sprints from a standing start to 60 miles per hour (96 km/h) in just 5.1 seconds, gets to 124 mph (200 km/h) in 18.6 seconds and can eclipse the quarter-mile sprint in 13.6 seconds and achieves a top speed on the test track of nearly 171 mph (275 km/h).

Indeed, during testing at Germany’s famed Nurburgring racing circuit, the Cayman S turned laps that rivaled even the acclaimed Porsche 911® Carrera®, the epitome of the modern sports car.

The 2007 Porsche Cayman S is the higher-performance version of Porsche’s Boxster-based sports coupe, and like all Porsche “S” models, the changes are not some mere cosmetic package but changes significant enough to warrant a separate model designation.

With its combination of a powerful drivetrain, exceptionally well-balanced dynamic dexterity and the quality of braking that characterizes every Porsche vehicle, the performance by the Cayman S on Germany’s most demanding closed circuit resulted in lap times that not only challenged the 911, but at the same time were considerably faster than its rivals in the two-seater coupe category.

But the 2007 Porsche Cayman S isn’t just fast and quick around the road course. Thanks to careful engineering to optimize weight and to a design that provides outstanding aerodynamics, this Porsche coupe established standards on the Nьrburgring’s famous Northern Circuit for efficiency by turning the fastest lap while using the least amount of fuel.

And yet the 2007 Porsche Cayman S is more than a high-performance sports car. It was designed to be comfortable with a particularly well-appointed passenger compartment designed for long-distance driving -- whether on two-lane mountain roads, wide-open stretches of Interstate highway or even the congestion of urban freeways.

While the Cayman S chassis and suspension are based on the Boxster’s, the coupe is slightly larger and gains rigidity from its fixed-roof architecture. This stiffer structure allows Porsche engineers to optimize the coupe’s suspension for exceptional dynamic capabilities. Compared to Porsche’s own outstanding roadster, the body of the Cayman S offers 100 percent more resistance to flex and its torsional stiffness nearly matches that of the heralded Porsche 911 Carrera.

The 2007 Porsche Cayman S features the latest generation of Porsche Stability Management (PSM), a unique vehicle control technology that comprises anti-lock braking, anti-slip (traction) control, engine drag control and automatic brake differential functions to intervene when necessary in driving situations that approach the limits of adhesion. In such instances, PSM can apply the brakes to individual wheels to help maintain the car’s stability.

However, unlike intrusive vehicle control systems available from other automakers, PSM is designed not to interfere with sporty performance but to enhance the experience for the enthusiast driver.
For drivers who want to experience the ultimate expression of vehicle dynamics, the 2007 Porsche Cayman S can be equipped with Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) and the Sports Chrono Package.

PASM, in effect, provides two suspension setups in a single vehicle – one for comfortable cruising and everyday driving and the other for track-day or autocross exercises.

The Sports Chrono Package does not only include a dash-mounted stopwatch gauge that records lap times on track days or in autocross events, but it enhances the vehicle’s performance in such an environment by allowing the driver to engage more aggressive electronic control maps for the Motronic engine management system, Porsche Stability Management (PSM), Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) and Tiptronic S transmission (on vehicles equipped with these options).
In Porsche’s testing at the Nurburgring, a Cayman S equipped with the Sports Chrono Package was some three seconds per lap faster around the test track.

To deal with such dynamic forces, the Cayman S uses the same braking system components as the 911 Carrera, and rides on standard 18-inch wheels and tires, with four 19-inch wheel designs as optional equipment.

To try to classify the Cayman S as merely the coupe version of the Boxster does disservice to both vehicles, each of which is unique with its own special characteristics. The 2007 Cayman S presents a new face for Porsche with a more pronounced lower lip and with the fog lamps mounted on bars that extend across the air intakes – with their unique vertical slats -- on either side of that lap. The hood sweeps up between the front fenders to a steeply raked windshield.

Overall, the 2007 Porsche Cayman S body is 172.1 inches (4372 mm) long, which makes it not quite half an inch longer than the Boxster and 3.5 inches (88.9 mm) shorter than the 911 Carrera. The Cayman S also is half-an-inch taller (at 51.4 inches or 1305 mm) than the Boxster, though the cars share their width (70.9 inches or 1801 mm) and their 95.1-incn (2415 mm) wheelbase dimensions.
The interior of the 2007 Porsche Cayman S combines luxury-class materials with the controls and seat bolstering required by the enthusiast driver and thus provides a fitting environment whether traveling across the country or around a racetrack.

Porsche Cars North America, Inc. (PCNA), based in Atlanta, Ga, and its subsidiary, Porsche Cars Canada, Ltd., are the exclusive importers of Porsche sports cars and Cayenne® sport utility vehicles for the United States and Canada. A wholly owned, indirect subsidiary of Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG, PCNA employs approximately 250 people who provide Porsche vehicles, parts, service, marketing and training for its 214 U.S. and Canadian dealers. They, in turn, provide Porsche owners with best-in-class service.

© Source: article on seriouswheels
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