GM to sell Hummer to Chinese Co?

Edmunds.com speculates:

SHANGHAI, China — General Motors could sell its troubled
Hummer brand to a Chinese automaker, according to Fritz Henderson, president
and chief operating officer.

“If any Chinese companies are interested in buying Hummer, it will be certainly an option for us to look at. We need to be open to all ideas,” said Henderson, who was making his first trip to China since he took up his new post in March.

Henderson also emphasized that China will continue to be a major factor in GM’s bid to return to profitability. A continuing interest in the Chinese market, as well as other emerging markets such as Russia and Latin America, is a top priority for GM, which is struggling with slumping sales in North America, especially of big trucks and SUVs.

With gas prices in the U.S. now averaging more than $4 a gallon, customers have shunned GM’s full-size pickups and utility vehicles and shifted to fuel-efficient compact cars.

Over the past three years, GM has reported losses totaling more than $50 billion, and most auto industry analysts do not expect the automaker to return to profitability this year.

Who in China is most likely to take on Hummer? We know that Hummer and Changfeng have a potential deal on the table to supply chassis to Hummer, but does Changfeng have the cash on tap to buy up Hummer? Who else in China would be willing to buy into Hummer? We could add to the speculation, and say that US Government may not be willing for a Chinese company to engage in a NAC MG style ‘lift and shift’ operation to take technology and entire factories back to the PRC without some sort of guarantee for US workers. On the other hand, the low Dollar, and the high Yuan have seen an increase of direct Chinese investment in the USA.

GM to sell Hummer to Chinese Co?

Edmunds.com speculates:

SHANGHAI, China — General Motors could sell its troubled
Hummer brand to a Chinese automaker, according to Fritz Henderson, president
and chief operating officer.

“If any Chinese companies are interested in buying Hummer, it will be certainly an option for us to look at. We need to be open to all ideas,” said Henderson, who was making his first trip to China since he took up his new post in March.

Henderson also emphasized that China will continue to be a major factor in GM’s bid to return to profitability. A continuing interest in the Chinese market, as well as other emerging markets such as Russia and Latin America, is a top priority for GM, which is struggling with slumping sales in North America, especially of big trucks and SUVs.

With gas prices in the U.S. now averaging more than $4 a gallon, customers have shunned GM’s full-size pickups and utility vehicles and shifted to fuel-efficient compact cars.

Over the past three years, GM has reported losses totaling more than $50 billion, and most auto industry analysts do not expect the automaker to return to profitability this year.

Who in China is most likely to take on Hummer? We know that Hummer and Changfeng have a potential deal on the table to supply chassis to Hummer, but does Changfeng have the cash on tap to buy up Hummer? Who else in China would be willing to buy into Hummer? We could add to the speculation, and say that US Government may not be willing for a Chinese company to engage in a NAC MG style ‘lift and shift’ operation to take technology and entire factories back to the PRC without some sort of guarantee for US workers. On the other hand, the low Dollar, and the high Yuan have seen an increase of direct Chinese investment in the USA.

225mph Stealth supercar: BRABUS BULLIT BLACK ARROW

June 11, 2008 German auto-performance specialist Brabus has again pushed the envelope with its latest creation - the wickedly styled BULLIT BLACK ARROW.

Based on the body of the new MercedesBehind-the-Line-Mercedes C-Class sedan, the four-door, V12 Biturbo BLACK ARROW boasts some incredible performance specs: 730 hp, 1,320 Nm of torque, 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 3.9 seconds and 0 to 300 km/h (186 mph) in 24.5 seconds, with a top speed listed at more than 360 km/h (225 mph). This brings it within top speed range of its stablemate - and current world's fastest sedan titleholder - the Mercedes CLS based BRABUS ROCKET.

The C-Class engine bay has been extensively modified to accommodate the turbocharged V12 engine, a reworked Mercedes S 600 that's also derived from the BRABUS ROCKET. The engine's 6.3 liter displacement is achieved using a crankshaft with longer stroke, larger cylinder bore and special pistons and piston rods, with cylinder heads optimized for faster gas exchange and high-performance camshafts added. Special manifolds, larger turbochargers and larger intercoolers were also added along with a new stainless-steel high-performance exhaust system and new mapping for engine electronics and on-board diagnostics, all of which results in an engine that produces 730 hp (720 hp SAE net) / 537 kW at just 5,100 rpm with the peak torque of 1,320 Nm (974 lb-ft) limited electronically to 1,100 Nm (811 lb-ft).

The car's distinctive finish is marked by a special matte-black coating, new hood and aluminum wheel arch flares for front and rear axle which add six centimeters (2.4 inches) to the C-Class width and accommodate the wide matte-black BRABUS Monoblock S light-alloy wheels. Aesthetics, aerodynamic performance and cooling are further boosted by large air ducts in the autoclave-baked carbon fiberCarbon fiber front apron, with a three-piece spoiler and apron with integrated diffuser at the rear.

The BULLIT BLACK ARROW is in small-series production with the price starting at 348,000 Euros MSRP.

Visit BRABUS for further info or read on for more technical specifications:

BRABUS BULLIT BLACK ARROW:


Body:
4-door sedan based on Mercedes-Benz C-Class, W 204 series
Steel unibody widened with BRABUS fender flares by 60 mm (2.36 inches)
BRABUS BULLIT aerodynamic-enhancement kit with BULLIT front and rear bumper manufactured from carbon fiber baked in an autoclave. Rocker panels with integrated entrance lights, three-piece rear spoiler.


Measurements:
Length 4.590 mm 180.7 in.
Width 1.830 mm 72.0 in.
Height 1.402 mm 55.2 in.
Curb weight 1,850 kg 4,079 lbs.


Engine:
BRABUS SV 12 S Biturbo displacement engine based on Mercedes 600 V12-cylinder 3-valve light-alloy engine with twin turbochargers
Displacement 6,233 cm³ (380 cu. in.)
Compression ratio 9.0 : 1
Rated power 730 hp (720 hp SAE net) / 537 kW at 5,100 rpm
Peak torque 1,320 Nm (974 lb-ft) from 2,100 rpm (electronically limited to 1,100 Nm - 811 lb-ft)
Fuel: Super plus (98 octane)
Motor oilhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Motor_oil : ARAL


Drivetrain:
Rear-Wheel Drive
Reinforced five-speed automatic transmission
BRABUS locking rear differential with 40 percent locking rate


Suspension:
Independent suspension front and rear with height-adjustable BRABUS coil-over suspension
Front axle: Three-link, anti-dive geometry. Height-adjustable BRABUS struts with coil springs and gas-pressure shocks featuring ten settings each for bound and rebound; BRABUS sport sway bar
Rear axle: Five-link, anti-dive and anti-squat geometry. Height-adjustable BRABUS struts with coil springs and gas-pressure shocks featuring ten settings each for bound and rebound; BRABUS sport sway bar.


Wheels:
BRABUS Monoblock S light-alloy wheels with YOKOHAMA or Pirelli high-performance tires
Front: 9.5Jx19 H2 with 265/30 ZR 19
Rear: 10.0Jx19 H2 with 285/30 ZR 19


Brake System:
Dual-circuit brakes with Brake Assist and BRABUS high-performance brake system
Front: BRABUS 12-piston fixed aluminum calipers with vented and grooved 380 x 37 mm (15 x 1.46 in.) steel brake discs
Rear: BRABUS six-piston fixed aluminum calipers with vented and grooved 360 x 28 mm (14.2 x 1.1 in.) steel brake discs.


Performance:
0 - 100 km/h (62 mph): 3.9 sec
0 - 200 km/h (124 mph): 10.49 sec
0 - 300 km/h (186 mph): 24.5 sec
Top speed: more than 360 km/h (225 mph), 350 km/h (217 mph) electronically limited

225mph Stealth supercar: BRABUS BULLIT BLACK ARROW

June 11, 2008 German auto-performance specialist Brabus has again pushed the envelope with its latest creation - the wickedly styled BULLIT BLACK ARROW.

Based on the body of the new MercedesBehind-the-Line-Mercedes C-Class sedan, the four-door, V12 Biturbo BLACK ARROW boasts some incredible performance specs: 730 hp, 1,320 Nm of torque, 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 3.9 seconds and 0 to 300 km/h (186 mph) in 24.5 seconds, with a top speed listed at more than 360 km/h (225 mph). This brings it within top speed range of its stablemate - and current world's fastest sedan titleholder - the Mercedes CLS based BRABUS ROCKET.

The C-Class engine bay has been extensively modified to accommodate the turbocharged V12 engine, a reworked Mercedes S 600 that's also derived from the BRABUS ROCKET. The engine's 6.3 liter displacement is achieved using a crankshaft with longer stroke, larger cylinder bore and special pistons and piston rods, with cylinder heads optimized for faster gas exchange and high-performance camshafts added. Special manifolds, larger turbochargers and larger intercoolers were also added along with a new stainless-steel high-performance exhaust system and new mapping for engine electronics and on-board diagnostics, all of which results in an engine that produces 730 hp (720 hp SAE net) / 537 kW at just 5,100 rpm with the peak torque of 1,320 Nm (974 lb-ft) limited electronically to 1,100 Nm (811 lb-ft).

The car's distinctive finish is marked by a special matte-black coating, new hood and aluminum wheel arch flares for front and rear axle which add six centimeters (2.4 inches) to the C-Class width and accommodate the wide matte-black BRABUS Monoblock S light-alloy wheels. Aesthetics, aerodynamic performance and cooling are further boosted by large air ducts in the autoclave-baked carbon fiberCarbon fiber front apron, with a three-piece spoiler and apron with integrated diffuser at the rear.

The BULLIT BLACK ARROW is in small-series production with the price starting at 348,000 Euros MSRP.

Visit BRABUS for further info or read on for more technical specifications:

BRABUS BULLIT BLACK ARROW:


Body:
4-door sedan based on Mercedes-Benz C-Class, W 204 series
Steel unibody widened with BRABUS fender flares by 60 mm (2.36 inches)
BRABUS BULLIT aerodynamic-enhancement kit with BULLIT front and rear bumper manufactured from carbon fiber baked in an autoclave. Rocker panels with integrated entrance lights, three-piece rear spoiler.


Measurements:
Length 4.590 mm 180.7 in.
Width 1.830 mm 72.0 in.
Height 1.402 mm 55.2 in.
Curb weight 1,850 kg 4,079 lbs.


Engine:
BRABUS SV 12 S Biturbo displacement engine based on Mercedes 600 V12-cylinder 3-valve light-alloy engine with twin turbochargers
Displacement 6,233 cm³ (380 cu. in.)
Compression ratio 9.0 : 1
Rated power 730 hp (720 hp SAE net) / 537 kW at 5,100 rpm
Peak torque 1,320 Nm (974 lb-ft) from 2,100 rpm (electronically limited to 1,100 Nm - 811 lb-ft)
Fuel: Super plus (98 octane)
Motor oilhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Motor_oil : ARAL


Drivetrain:
Rear-Wheel Drive
Reinforced five-speed automatic transmission
BRABUS locking rear differential with 40 percent locking rate


Suspension:
Independent suspension front and rear with height-adjustable BRABUS coil-over suspension
Front axle: Three-link, anti-dive geometry. Height-adjustable BRABUS struts with coil springs and gas-pressure shocks featuring ten settings each for bound and rebound; BRABUS sport sway bar
Rear axle: Five-link, anti-dive and anti-squat geometry. Height-adjustable BRABUS struts with coil springs and gas-pressure shocks featuring ten settings each for bound and rebound; BRABUS sport sway bar.


Wheels:
BRABUS Monoblock S light-alloy wheels with YOKOHAMA or Pirelli high-performance tires
Front: 9.5Jx19 H2 with 265/30 ZR 19
Rear: 10.0Jx19 H2 with 285/30 ZR 19


Brake System:
Dual-circuit brakes with Brake Assist and BRABUS high-performance brake system
Front: BRABUS 12-piston fixed aluminum calipers with vented and grooved 380 x 37 mm (15 x 1.46 in.) steel brake discs
Rear: BRABUS six-piston fixed aluminum calipers with vented and grooved 360 x 28 mm (14.2 x 1.1 in.) steel brake discs.


Performance:
0 - 100 km/h (62 mph): 3.9 sec
0 - 200 km/h (124 mph): 10.49 sec
0 - 300 km/h (186 mph): 24.5 sec
Top speed: more than 360 km/h (225 mph), 350 km/h (217 mph) electronically limited

Audi Engine Strategy Through 2011 Leaked

Someone in the know over at Audiblog.nl has spilled forth a detailed list of all Audi brand engines for all models through the 2011 calender year — and the release dates for new models. In addition to the big engine news, the leakers claim that we'll be seeing the rumored Audi A7 model in June of 2010, as well as an S7 version following that fall, and a return to form for the next generation Audi S4. Look below for a detail look at what's coming up for Audi in the next three years.

Audi A1
Starting at the bottom of the grid, the Audi A1 will maintain the currently planned 1.4 TFSI, but will get an 86 HP 1.2-liter TFSI good for a little less power but will be quite a bit easier on European wallets.

Audi S4
It seems the B8 Audi S4 will be returning to its twin-turbo V6 roots, as early as this coming November. News of this respite from V8 shenanigans comes with virtually all positive notes, considering the engine is to displace 3.0 L but grunt out 330 HP, only 10 shy of the current iteration. Add in lighter weight and the same treatment for the Avant versions and everyone's happy.

Audi S5
In September 2010 the S5 will be dumping its current V8 mill for the same twin-turbo 3.0 L TFSI V6 in the S4. This will be a cut in power, but like we said about the S4, it's not giving up much and will lighten up that porky bottom line. What's perhaps more interesting is the introduction of an Audi RS5. It will retain the same 4.2-liter V8 in the current S5, but gets a whopping increase in power up to 450 HP. With such power on tap it's a good thing there will be a new 7-speed to keep it in check.

Audi S5 Sportback

The previously unknown S5 Sportback will be on sale as of September 2010 and will get the 3.0 L twin-turbo TFSI mated to a 6-speed manual, or a 7 speed auto. We're beginning to see a theme here with S-line engines, aren't you? Hopefully this new engine won't have many teething problems.

Audi A7 Sportback
Being called the Audi A7 "Sportback" leads us to believe this as-yet unseen and unheard of version of the A7 will have a certain wagony-goodness to it, but who knows. Perhaps it'll be a big old five door, swiping the hardware from the Skoda Superb. Anyway, we digress. The A7 Sportback gets a 2.8L FSI, a 3.0 L TFSI, and a bevy of oil burners. And now what's this? An S7 Sportback? Why yes, yes it is. And this one gets a 4.0 L TFSI with 395 HP! While that's no RS6 Avant, it's nothing to sneeze at.

Audi R8 Spyder

When we got the first images of that Audi R8 V10, we couldn't even speculate on a release date for the thing. Now we know the plan is for the hardtop version of the upgraded V10-powered R8 to roll out in June of 2009, and those wacky Germans are going to hack the top off and give you the R8 Spyder in March, 2010. The lesser 4.2 L V8 will follow a little later for the Spyder, just in case you were interested.

Audi Q7
While there's no earth shattering engine news on the Audi Q7 front, these docs report a facelift for the bulky-UV coming in August of next year. So, you know, if the looks are what keep you from taking the plunge, maybe wait a year and see if you like the changes.

There's an exhaustive breakdown of models, engines, and dates over at Audiblog, the original leakers. Good stuff fellas, now all the surprises are gone, thanks a lot (no, really). [via WCF]

Audi Engine Strategy Through 2011 Leaked

Someone in the know over at Audiblog.nl has spilled forth a detailed list of all Audi brand engines for all models through the 2011 calender year — and the release dates for new models. In addition to the big engine news, the leakers claim that we'll be seeing the rumored Audi A7 model in June of 2010, as well as an S7 version following that fall, and a return to form for the next generation Audi S4. Look below for a detail look at what's coming up for Audi in the next three years.

Audi A1
Starting at the bottom of the grid, the Audi A1 will maintain the currently planned 1.4 TFSI, but will get an 86 HP 1.2-liter TFSI good for a little less power but will be quite a bit easier on European wallets.

Audi S4
It seems the B8 Audi S4 will be returning to its twin-turbo V6 roots, as early as this coming November. News of this respite from V8 shenanigans comes with virtually all positive notes, considering the engine is to displace 3.0 L but grunt out 330 HP, only 10 shy of the current iteration. Add in lighter weight and the same treatment for the Avant versions and everyone's happy.

Audi S5
In September 2010 the S5 will be dumping its current V8 mill for the same twin-turbo 3.0 L TFSI V6 in the S4. This will be a cut in power, but like we said about the S4, it's not giving up much and will lighten up that porky bottom line. What's perhaps more interesting is the introduction of an Audi RS5. It will retain the same 4.2-liter V8 in the current S5, but gets a whopping increase in power up to 450 HP. With such power on tap it's a good thing there will be a new 7-speed to keep it in check.

Audi S5 Sportback

The previously unknown S5 Sportback will be on sale as of September 2010 and will get the 3.0 L twin-turbo TFSI mated to a 6-speed manual, or a 7 speed auto. We're beginning to see a theme here with S-line engines, aren't you? Hopefully this new engine won't have many teething problems.

Audi A7 Sportback
Being called the Audi A7 "Sportback" leads us to believe this as-yet unseen and unheard of version of the A7 will have a certain wagony-goodness to it, but who knows. Perhaps it'll be a big old five door, swiping the hardware from the Skoda Superb. Anyway, we digress. The A7 Sportback gets a 2.8L FSI, a 3.0 L TFSI, and a bevy of oil burners. And now what's this? An S7 Sportback? Why yes, yes it is. And this one gets a 4.0 L TFSI with 395 HP! While that's no RS6 Avant, it's nothing to sneeze at.

Audi R8 Spyder

When we got the first images of that Audi R8 V10, we couldn't even speculate on a release date for the thing. Now we know the plan is for the hardtop version of the upgraded V10-powered R8 to roll out in June of 2009, and those wacky Germans are going to hack the top off and give you the R8 Spyder in March, 2010. The lesser 4.2 L V8 will follow a little later for the Spyder, just in case you were interested.

Audi Q7
While there's no earth shattering engine news on the Audi Q7 front, these docs report a facelift for the bulky-UV coming in August of next year. So, you know, if the looks are what keep you from taking the plunge, maybe wait a year and see if you like the changes.

There's an exhaustive breakdown of models, engines, and dates over at Audiblog, the original leakers. Good stuff fellas, now all the surprises are gone, thanks a lot (no, really). [via WCF]

Volkswagen May Actually Produce Their One Liter Car

“The conceptual necessity for a small frontal area led to an unusually narrow and very flat body form being chosen. The body was developed in a wind tunnel, is 3.47 metres long, but just 1.25 metres wide and just over a metre in height, and is made completely of carbon fibre composites. To save weight, it is of course not painted. The carbon-fibre-reinforced outer skin is tensioned over a spaceframe that is not made of aluminium, but rather of magnesium, which is even lighter… Deformation elements at the front end and the spaceframe construction provide impact and roll-over protection comparable to that of a GT racing car.”

While generally eschewing cleaner engines unless they really, really had to reduce emissions, VW engineers certainly are recognized for their game-changing, efficient designs. When the Rocky Mountain Institute first developed the Hypercar concept, Volkswagen showed a two seat in tandem, streamlined microcar, dubbed the 1-liter car.
The name, Sam “Mister Motor Authority — You Vill Use Oil” Abuelsamid tells us, “came from the fuel consumption of 1 L/100km or 235 mpg.

While at the time [2002] no one seriously expected this to be put in
production. VW CEO Martin Winterkorn has now confirmed that a plastic and
magnesium super mini would indeed by built in limited numbers by 2010. The car
will be powered by a 300cc single cylinder engine yielding a top speed of 75
mph.

While the two seat (side-by-side), streamlined three-wheel vehicle looks to be quite fragile, it is designed to be safe as well as fuel efficient with an an inner crash box, crush-able / absorbing material and airbags to protect the driver and passenger. The company announced last week that they now are accepting orders.
Without an electric drive with advanced lithium batteries, this is no different than what was originally developed. It could compete on the basis of price with the Aptera, which also is very sleek and thus requires fewer mega Joules to go the same distance. Perhaps, VW dealers can hope that shoppers won’t look for a plug. Now the question is, can it get a Five Star safety rating, like its competition?

Volkswagen May Actually Produce Their One Liter Car

“The conceptual necessity for a small frontal area led to an unusually narrow and very flat body form being chosen. The body was developed in a wind tunnel, is 3.47 metres long, but just 1.25 metres wide and just over a metre in height, and is made completely of carbon fibre composites. To save weight, it is of course not painted. The carbon-fibre-reinforced outer skin is tensioned over a spaceframe that is not made of aluminium, but rather of magnesium, which is even lighter… Deformation elements at the front end and the spaceframe construction provide impact and roll-over protection comparable to that of a GT racing car.”

While generally eschewing cleaner engines unless they really, really had to reduce emissions, VW engineers certainly are recognized for their game-changing, efficient designs. When the Rocky Mountain Institute first developed the Hypercar concept, Volkswagen showed a two seat in tandem, streamlined microcar, dubbed the 1-liter car.
The name, Sam “Mister Motor Authority — You Vill Use Oil” Abuelsamid tells us, “came from the fuel consumption of 1 L/100km or 235 mpg.

While at the time [2002] no one seriously expected this to be put in
production. VW CEO Martin Winterkorn has now confirmed that a plastic and
magnesium super mini would indeed by built in limited numbers by 2010. The car
will be powered by a 300cc single cylinder engine yielding a top speed of 75
mph.

While the two seat (side-by-side), streamlined three-wheel vehicle looks to be quite fragile, it is designed to be safe as well as fuel efficient with an an inner crash box, crush-able / absorbing material and airbags to protect the driver and passenger. The company announced last week that they now are accepting orders.
Without an electric drive with advanced lithium batteries, this is no different than what was originally developed. It could compete on the basis of price with the Aptera, which also is very sleek and thus requires fewer mega Joules to go the same distance. Perhaps, VW dealers can hope that shoppers won’t look for a plug. Now the question is, can it get a Five Star safety rating, like its competition?

4WD Quark Peugeot’s Futuristic Quad Prototype

Let’s take a look at peugeot’s futuristic prototype two-seater. This 4WD Quark has removable interactive interface, innovative PDA concept, still serves the same purpose as ignition key which combine with instrument panel. 4WD Quark is also protected with small transparent and waterproof cover. Enough said, this 4WD Quark prototype has competed successfully at Michelin Bibendum challenge.The vehicle create its own class in four wheeler, which actually similar with 4WD machines that are selling so well in America at present, yet created low-emission inner-urban fuel-cell vehicle. To drive each of four 17″ diameter wheels, this 4WD Quark is using electric motor which connected to the chassis by means of triangular wishbones.




The fuel cell supplements electrical energy supplied by a Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH) battery consisting of 40 individual cells, each with a voltage of 7.2 volts. The battery can therefore provide a nominal overall voltage of 288 Volts. In parallel, PSA Peugeot Citro’n have also developed new solutions to simplify the fuel cell and reduce its size to help integration into more compact vehicles.The fuel cell of Quark is no longer water-cooled, but air-cooled, this could avoid the need for bulky water-cooling system and this means we can also avoid freezing point because of ambient temperature that could cause damage to water-cooled cell. So you don’t have to put 4WD Quark in garage in any weather conditions.




Source: Tuvie

4WD Quark Peugeot’s Futuristic Quad Prototype

Let’s take a look at peugeot’s futuristic prototype two-seater. This 4WD Quark has removable interactive interface, innovative PDA concept, still serves the same purpose as ignition key which combine with instrument panel. 4WD Quark is also protected with small transparent and waterproof cover. Enough said, this 4WD Quark prototype has competed successfully at Michelin Bibendum challenge.The vehicle create its own class in four wheeler, which actually similar with 4WD machines that are selling so well in America at present, yet created low-emission inner-urban fuel-cell vehicle. To drive each of four 17″ diameter wheels, this 4WD Quark is using electric motor which connected to the chassis by means of triangular wishbones.




The fuel cell supplements electrical energy supplied by a Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH) battery consisting of 40 individual cells, each with a voltage of 7.2 volts. The battery can therefore provide a nominal overall voltage of 288 Volts. In parallel, PSA Peugeot Citro’n have also developed new solutions to simplify the fuel cell and reduce its size to help integration into more compact vehicles.The fuel cell of Quark is no longer water-cooled, but air-cooled, this could avoid the need for bulky water-cooling system and this means we can also avoid freezing point because of ambient temperature that could cause damage to water-cooled cell. So you don’t have to put 4WD Quark in garage in any weather conditions.




Source: Tuvie

Futuristic Car Solid is a Safety Compact Vehicle

Nowadays the emphasis is being given to private vehicles for maneuvering in and around the city. Also with this increase in vehicles, the parking spaces are getting cramped up by the day. It is but obvious to have an amicable solution for the same. In comes Solid – the vehicle. Designed by Nikita Gutsalenko, currently pursuing fifth year in Product Design and Transport Design at the Ural State Academy of Architecture and Arts, Russia

The Solid vehicle does have the standard protection means, like safety-belts and airbags. It also has two special elements installed in front and in the back of the car. These elements provide additional maneuverability by turning around. They also are very strong in if a crash occurs as they take the damage on itself and thus saving the booth.

The deformation of the Booth is prevented by a frame ring. In the interior, a display is installed thus creating a panoramic view. The Airbags installed in wheel of the car will operate at the side. With an approach sensor it turns on the auto brake system. The car creates the sensation of reliability as its Image is associated with specialized machines, all we can say is welcome to the future.

Designer : Nikita Gutsalenko

Futuristic Car Solid is a Safety Compact Vehicle

Nowadays the emphasis is being given to private vehicles for maneuvering in and around the city. Also with this increase in vehicles, the parking spaces are getting cramped up by the day. It is but obvious to have an amicable solution for the same. In comes Solid – the vehicle. Designed by Nikita Gutsalenko, currently pursuing fifth year in Product Design and Transport Design at the Ural State Academy of Architecture and Arts, Russia

The Solid vehicle does have the standard protection means, like safety-belts and airbags. It also has two special elements installed in front and in the back of the car. These elements provide additional maneuverability by turning around. They also are very strong in if a crash occurs as they take the damage on itself and thus saving the booth.

The deformation of the Booth is prevented by a frame ring. In the interior, a display is installed thus creating a panoramic view. The Airbags installed in wheel of the car will operate at the side. With an approach sensor it turns on the auto brake system. The car creates the sensation of reliability as its Image is associated with specialized machines, all we can say is welcome to the future.

Designer : Nikita Gutsalenko

800 hp Phoenix GT/Uirapuru super car

The Uirapuru, also known as the Brasinca 4200 GT, is a 60s sports car that has a very interesting history. Created in 1964 by Rigoberto Soler, the car was produced in only 76 units, which makes it a very rare car. Also, rumors say that its design inspired the famous Jensen Interceptor. Its name, Uirapuru, comes from a very rare Amazonian bird whose song is considered to be one of the most beautiful in the world.

Now, after more than 40 years, looks like some one wants to bring the Uirapuru back. And that someone is André Soler (no blood connection to Rigoberto Soler, the creator of the original Uirapuru), who partnered with GT Racers and tries to create a new, modern super car. However, like every small producer, the main problems are the financial one. Though some negotiations were taken with some Arab investors, they couldn’t agree on the terms of the cooperation so now the car’s development is pretty slow, not even reaching the prototype stage.

When it will be produced, the prototype will be 3,93 m long, 1,90 m wide and 1,17 m high, with a wheelbase of 2,73 m and it will be powered by a Judd GV5 Sports Racing V8 engine, that generates over 600 hp when running until 7,800 rpm and more that 800 hp when running at up to 10,000 rpm. Besides that, the creators are also thinking of creating the Uirapuru with a GM 3.6 liter V6 Alloytec engine.

Overall, a very interesting concept and we’ll keep you update once we get more info on the Uirapuru. Meanwhile, check out more renderings of the car after the jump.

800 hp Phoenix GT/Uirapuru super car

The Uirapuru, also known as the Brasinca 4200 GT, is a 60s sports car that has a very interesting history. Created in 1964 by Rigoberto Soler, the car was produced in only 76 units, which makes it a very rare car. Also, rumors say that its design inspired the famous Jensen Interceptor. Its name, Uirapuru, comes from a very rare Amazonian bird whose song is considered to be one of the most beautiful in the world.

Now, after more than 40 years, looks like some one wants to bring the Uirapuru back. And that someone is André Soler (no blood connection to Rigoberto Soler, the creator of the original Uirapuru), who partnered with GT Racers and tries to create a new, modern super car. However, like every small producer, the main problems are the financial one. Though some negotiations were taken with some Arab investors, they couldn’t agree on the terms of the cooperation so now the car’s development is pretty slow, not even reaching the prototype stage.

When it will be produced, the prototype will be 3,93 m long, 1,90 m wide and 1,17 m high, with a wheelbase of 2,73 m and it will be powered by a Judd GV5 Sports Racing V8 engine, that generates over 600 hp when running until 7,800 rpm and more that 800 hp when running at up to 10,000 rpm. Besides that, the creators are also thinking of creating the Uirapuru with a GM 3.6 liter V6 Alloytec engine.

Overall, a very interesting concept and we’ll keep you update once we get more info on the Uirapuru. Meanwhile, check out more renderings of the car after the jump.

Toyota Prius sales top 1 million units worldwide

Toyota has managed to rack up one million sales of its petrol-electric hybrid since the car first went on sale in Japan back in December 1997. At the end of April, Toyota said it had sold 1,028,000 Prius models with 100,000 finding a home in anti-hybrid Europe. Only last year Toyota’s combined hybrid sales (including its Lexus models) reached the million vehicle mark, so it just goes to show how much the Prius dominates the carmaker’s hybrid tally.

Toyota is well poised to take advantage of increasing demand for hybrid models caused by rising world oil prices and the concern for global warming. Honda remains a distant second in the sales race and the Prius is still one of the most recognized hybrid brands in the world.

Last year, Toyota sold about 429,400 hybrids globally, up 37% from 2006, however this accounted for less than 5% of its total vehicle sales, reports Automotive News. The carmaker is dedicated to eventually offering a 100% hybrid line-up, boasting that hybrids will be the standard drivetrain by 2020.

Engineers are now working on the next-generation Prius model due for launch late next year and more advanced plug-in hybrid vehicles for launch at the end of the decade. Toyota is currently embroiled in a race with GM to be the first on the market with a plug-in hybrid and is also working on developing cheaper hybrid systems with the hope to roll it out across more models.

Toyota Prius sales top 1 million units worldwide

Toyota has managed to rack up one million sales of its petrol-electric hybrid since the car first went on sale in Japan back in December 1997. At the end of April, Toyota said it had sold 1,028,000 Prius models with 100,000 finding a home in anti-hybrid Europe. Only last year Toyota’s combined hybrid sales (including its Lexus models) reached the million vehicle mark, so it just goes to show how much the Prius dominates the carmaker’s hybrid tally.

Toyota is well poised to take advantage of increasing demand for hybrid models caused by rising world oil prices and the concern for global warming. Honda remains a distant second in the sales race and the Prius is still one of the most recognized hybrid brands in the world.

Last year, Toyota sold about 429,400 hybrids globally, up 37% from 2006, however this accounted for less than 5% of its total vehicle sales, reports Automotive News. The carmaker is dedicated to eventually offering a 100% hybrid line-up, boasting that hybrids will be the standard drivetrain by 2020.

Engineers are now working on the next-generation Prius model due for launch late next year and more advanced plug-in hybrid vehicles for launch at the end of the decade. Toyota is currently embroiled in a race with GM to be the first on the market with a plug-in hybrid and is also working on developing cheaper hybrid systems with the hope to roll it out across more models.

BMW looks at exhaust-gas and solar energy for efficiency gains

As manufacturers seek ways to create more efficient cars without compromising power or driveability, eyes are increasingly turning to new technologies and ideas. BMW is looking to electricity generated by exhaust gas heat and solar power to take the electrical load off the engine and thereby improve efficiency and reduce emissions.

In fact, BMW has found that re-purposing the otherwise wasted exhaust heat to power a thermoelectric generator generating up to 1kW could be used to reduce real-world fuel consumption by as much as 5%. The benefit comes from storing the electricity and using it to pre-heat the engine or power the air-conditioning systems. The illustration below shows the approximate location of the proposed system.

Honda’s similar work on the Rankine Cycle, which uses exhaust gas to heat water, creating steam that spins a turbine to generate electricity, has found as much as 32kW can be generated by the method, though the weight penalty for the device reduces fuel efficiency benefits to 3.8% at a 100km/h (62mph) cruise in a 2.0L direct-injection petrol four-cylinder.

BMW is also working on employing solar panels in the sun/moon roof sections of some of its cars. Prototypes have achieved 200W output levels, enough to improve efficiency by about 1%. Expanding solar panel coverage to the entire roof surface could generate up to 1kW, the same output as the exhaust-powered thermoelectric generator, and could benefit efficiency by the same amount, around 5%.

Other future technologies BMW is working on include regenerative braking, stop-start operation, variable frontal aerodynamics, electric power steering and a satellite-aided traffic management system that helps improve efficiency by anticipating when acceleration or braking will be necessary, and smoothing out the transitions between the two, resulting in better fuel economy. In Germany alone, BMW estimates that up to 12 billion liters (3.17 billion gallons) of fuel are wasted annually in traffic jams and other road hindrances.

The individual technologies are part of the overarching EfficientDynamics campaign to create more environmentally-aware cars while maintaining the driving dynamics that have made BMW famous.




Source: http://www.motorauthority.com/

BMW looks at exhaust-gas and solar energy for efficiency gains

As manufacturers seek ways to create more efficient cars without compromising power or driveability, eyes are increasingly turning to new technologies and ideas. BMW is looking to electricity generated by exhaust gas heat and solar power to take the electrical load off the engine and thereby improve efficiency and reduce emissions.

In fact, BMW has found that re-purposing the otherwise wasted exhaust heat to power a thermoelectric generator generating up to 1kW could be used to reduce real-world fuel consumption by as much as 5%. The benefit comes from storing the electricity and using it to pre-heat the engine or power the air-conditioning systems. The illustration below shows the approximate location of the proposed system.

Honda’s similar work on the Rankine Cycle, which uses exhaust gas to heat water, creating steam that spins a turbine to generate electricity, has found as much as 32kW can be generated by the method, though the weight penalty for the device reduces fuel efficiency benefits to 3.8% at a 100km/h (62mph) cruise in a 2.0L direct-injection petrol four-cylinder.

BMW is also working on employing solar panels in the sun/moon roof sections of some of its cars. Prototypes have achieved 200W output levels, enough to improve efficiency by about 1%. Expanding solar panel coverage to the entire roof surface could generate up to 1kW, the same output as the exhaust-powered thermoelectric generator, and could benefit efficiency by the same amount, around 5%.

Other future technologies BMW is working on include regenerative braking, stop-start operation, variable frontal aerodynamics, electric power steering and a satellite-aided traffic management system that helps improve efficiency by anticipating when acceleration or braking will be necessary, and smoothing out the transitions between the two, resulting in better fuel economy. In Germany alone, BMW estimates that up to 12 billion liters (3.17 billion gallons) of fuel are wasted annually in traffic jams and other road hindrances.

The individual technologies are part of the overarching EfficientDynamics campaign to create more environmentally-aware cars while maintaining the driving dynamics that have made BMW famous.




Source: http://www.motorauthority.com/