Car News

The Opel Zafira Tourer Concept makes its world premiere at the Geneva Motor Show (March 3 - 13). The vehicle offers a glimpse into the future generation Opel Zafira monocab trendsetter. The concept car combines maximum flexibility with a premium feel, resulting in an ideal blend of functionality and wellness. The Zafira Tourer Concept is a “lounge on wheels” with a light, airy and high-class quality interior that offers generous space for rear passengers. It brings Insignia values like ambition, quality and innovative technologies to the monocab segment while showcasing Opel’s design philosophy sculptural artistry meets German precision.



“We have transferred the idea of a relaxing lounge to a vehicle and created an automobile wellness oasis, a place to relax and enjoy. Passengers can retreat in the lounge. It is a comfortable, roomy space where you really want to be – regardless if it’s for a business trip or to relax for a long journey,” says Mark Adams, Vice President of Design at Opel. “The Opel Zafira Tourer Concept makes a statement with its sleek sporty look and premium feel”.



Flexibility trendsetter Zafira as luxurious wellness oasis

True to lounge feeling, the Zafira Tourer Concept interior is bathed in light thanks to a panorama windshield that seamlessly flows into a generous glass roof which extends to the rear of the car. A special touch is a second pane of high-tech composite material that is edge-lit by LEDs. Tiny metallic particles are embedded in the plastic to reflect the light and give off a cozy, warm light that can be varied in different shades of yellow. This reinforces the homey lounge ambiance and lends the interior a glowing character while achieving a harmonious balance with the outside world.



In the Zafira Tourer Concept, Opel engineers further developed the seven-seat Flex7 seating concept pioneered by the Zafira, making it more sophisticated than ever.



The third row can still be completely folded down flush with the floor in the innovative Zafira Tourer Concept. Fully automatically at the push of a button, the five-seat configuration can then be transformed into a roomy four-seat rear cabin with first-class feeling and lounge character. Thanks to a clever new folding mechanism, the back of the middle seat in the second row folds to offer comfortable armrests for the passengers in the outer seats. These then slide back and towards each other, creating maximum space for passengers’ arms and legs and thus ensuring optimal comfort. With extended footrests, perfect seating for relaxation is created – the ideal place to unwind.



The tiltable three-piece headrests are also electrically powered and add to the spacious first-class character of the Zafira Tourer Concept’s cabin. For safety reasons the headrests remain in vertical position for the driver when the car is in motion. In the lounge setting, with the exception of the driver headrest, they swivel 90 degrees to the horizontal position while the outer elements slightly curve forward – pure wellness for the passengers.



Clarity plays a big part in comfort and well-being in the first row, where a large touch-screen display dominates the center console. A covered storage compartment above that can hold a tablet PC like an iPad. The heating can be controlled over two turn knobs below the display, and air conditioning via touch-buttons.



Thanks to the flexible and pivot-mounted tablet PCs on the front seat backs, passengers in the second row can comfortably surf the internet or control multi-media applications.



Seats tailored in high-quality caramel leather with color-matched quilted seams and stitching, contrasted with Cocoa dark brown door trim, soft deep-pile carpet and a host of premium materials pleasant to touch, underline the monocab’s exclusivity.



Exterior design: Like an elegant high-speed train

The roomy, warm interior in dark brown and caramel color tones is encased by an elegant, sculptured and sophisticated exterior design in Frost Liquid Metal, a special metallic silver-grey.



The new distinctive front with wing shaped headlamps and twin trapezoid grille intakes creates a dynamic, sporty look.



The LED technology wing-shaped daytime running lights, bi-Xenon AFL and fog lamps are all contained behind a single plexiglass cover. The fog lamps, encased in a polished aluminium frame, shimmer in blue like a frosted acrylic block and contrast the warm atmosphere of the interior. These elements visually shorten the front overhang. The characteristic Opel center crease on the hood reaches from the grille to the windshield.



Like the Astra Sports Tourer, the Zafira’s belt line sweeps upwards in a hockey stick-like gesture and visually helps to propel the vehicle forward. The silhouette is reminiscent of a high-speed train. The sleek, aerodynamic body noticeably reduces wind noise to ensure quiet cruising even at high speeds.



The aerodynamically optimized exterior mirrors house the turn indicators that are encased like jewels in an elegant, polished aluminium body. These high-class trim details are echoed in the waist molding of the side glass as well as on the roof rails.



The dark tail lamps in the signature blade form with LED technology wrap around the body side and tailgate. The horizontal aluminium bar carrying the Opel logo stretches far into the light elements, giving the Opel Zafira Tourer Concept a broad, sporty look in the rear. The parallelogram-shaped dual exhaust pipes are integrated in another aluminium bar in the lower fascia, adding to its dynamic appearance.



Innovative designs and technologies enhance looks and comfort

The 20-inch twin-spoke alloy wheels in dark metallic grey matte lacquer emphasize both the monocab’s natural athleticism and its upper-class character. The polished high-gloss spokes contrast with diamond-cut aluminium surfaces that make them stand out against the dark background of the rims.



There is also a smart, exclusive detail hidden behind five slim covers integrated in the spokes. Opel engineers designed them as decorative and functional wheel-nut protectors. They can be unlocked easily and quickly and the covers open out in star-form to allow access to the bolts. The 245/40 R20 tires add an extra dash of sporty comfort.



The Zafira Tourer Concept is powered by a new version of the downsized, fuel-efficient 1.4 Turbo featuring Start/Stop technology that provides a smooth ride for all occupants.



The Zafira Tourer Concept also features innovative technologies that enhance comfort and safety such as the FlexRide fully adaptive damping system.

• Media and public praise revolutionary technology


• Already 1,000 reservations across Europe


• Opel lists total costs for owner


• Customers and brand ambassador Katie Melua look forward to start of sales


• Choice of drive modes for optimal energy management

The Ampera has already been chosen as the winner of numerous awards by media and the public. The revolutionary technical concept convinced the readers of Auto Zeitung, who awarded it the “Auto Trophy 2010” in the electric vehicle category. The Ampera was named runner up for the “Green Steering Wheel 2010”, a special category of the “Golden Steering Wheel”, by readers and the jury of Bild and Bild am Sonntag. And the respected jury of Auto Test magazine awarded it the “e-car award 2010” in the category “Innovation/Technical Concept of the Year”. The Ampera’s user-friendliness had already won the “Green Technology Award” from the British magazine What Car? and the “Innovation Trophy” from L’Automobile Magazine in France in 2009.



“Unlike a conventional electric vehicle, the Opel Ampera can be the only car you need to own,” says Alain Visser, Vice President of Sales, Marketing and Aftersales at Opel. “The Ampera delivers it all: revolutionary propulsion, progressive styling, excellent safety, high quality and user-friendly functions, all combined with superb driving dynamics.”



Innovative technology for total cost from 42,900 euros

In contrast to other manufacturers, Opel offers the Ampera for a uniform price of 42,900 euros (RRP incl. VAT) throughout Europe. Because trim levels will differ from market to market, prices in each country may vary. Opel’s pricing scheme eliminates confusion by listing the total cost of the car and battery.



The production version of the Opel Ampera does not deviate from the targets set during the development phase. With its unique electric propulsion system providing lively acceleration, high levels of refinement and all the benefits of an electrically-powered vehicle, the five-door Ampera seats four passengers and offers ample trunk space.



Its striking design remains very close to that of the early concept cars. The Ampera carries the DNA of Opel’s new design language – a prominent grille, bold Opel badge and daring boomerang headlamps. Every element of the Ampera was designed and analyzed for efficiency, making the Ampera one of the most aerodynamic and energy-efficient vehicles on the market. Inside, the Ampera is packed with the content fitting for a ground-breaking vehicle, from Bose speakers to touch-screen monitors.



ePioneers and Katie Melua eagerly await start of sales

The Ampera is already electrifying a group of ePioneers across Europe. Around 400 pioneers have joined the www.opel-ampera.com community as potential customers. They receive exclusive information and services, they will be the first to take the Ampera for a test drive and enjoy a host of other benefits.



While the ePioneers are waiting for sales of the Ampera to start, they are sharing their opinions about the future of the automobile. More and more drivers are convinced that the future of man’s mobility is with electric vehicles. Thomas A. from Ebersbach, Germany is sure that “e-mobility is coming. The Ampera concept can manage it, because most excuses have to do with range.” The engineer Hans-Ulrich H. from Lindau, Germany is convinced that “electricity from renewable energy sources will define the world tomorrow.” A Greenpeace supporter is of the opinion that the Ampera is the logical complement to green electricity and the final link in closing the “ecological circuit”. And Ralph G. from Matlock, UK says, “Even though the development of alternative fuels still has a long way to go, it looks like the Ampera is the first practical step in the right direction.”



A lot of people and ePioneers agree with Opel brand ambassador Katie Melua, who is travelling in an Ampera on her European tour starting in March: “I like the way environmental protection and sustainability are realized in the Ampera, and the way this green car embodies emotion and a zest for life,” said the British singer in London.



Suitable for every kind of journey

The revolutionary Opel Ampera will be the first emission-free, electrically driven car in Europe suitable for everyday driving. Unlike a conventional battery-electric vehicle, the Ampera eliminates range anxiety. It gives drivers the confidence and peace of mind that a depleted battery will not strand them.



The battery is recharged in about four hours at 230V by plugging the vehicle's on-board charge system into a standard household outlet. Because the battery can be recharged conveniently, without the need for special charging equipment, most Amperas are likely to be driven in battery mode all the time. Independent research shows that around 80 percent of Europeans drive less than 60 kilometers per day, so the Ampera easily meets their requirements. For the first 40 - 80 kilometers (depending on terrain, driving style, and temperature), power is supplied by the electricity stored in the 16-kWh, lithium-ion battery. While driving on electricity delivered by the battery, the Ampera moves free of gas and tailpipe-emissions. If a longer trip is required, the gasoline-fueled engine can seamlessly extend the total driving range to more than 500 kilometers on a full tank. This full-performance, range-extending technology makes the Ampera the first electric car with the everyday convenience of a conventional automobile.



Four Drive Modes from City to Sports for efficiency and driving fun

The extremely quiet 111 kW/150 hp electric motor delivers 370 Newton meters torque from a standstill. It accelerates the Ampera from zero to 100 km/h in around nine seconds and enables a maximum speed of 161 km/h.



Via a “Drive Mode” button in the center stack, the driver can choose Normal, Sport, Mountain or City modes. These modes optimize energy management according to the prevailing driving and road conditions.



The Normal mode is the default setting for the Ampera and is expected to be used most of the time to provide maximum efficiency. When the energy level of the battery drops below its state-of-charge operating window, the Ampera enters extended-range operation, during which the gasoline engine automatically runs to sustain the charge and enable extended-range travel. The battery’s state-of-charge is sustained by regenerative braking, allowing the gasoline generator to rest during long downhill stretches.



The Sport mode automatically reconfigures the accelerator pedal to provide a quicker response. While Sport mode doesn’t provide a higher power output, it does provide a more sensitive reaction to driver inputs.



The Mountain mode automatically adjusts the system to provide necessary power in mountainous environments, when the performance of conventional electric vehicles could be compromised. Mountain mode enables the range-extender to switch on, before the battery reaches its minimum state-of-charge. Drivers should select this mode after a full charge or 10 to 15 minutes before entering mountainous terrain to enable full vehicle capability up sustained grades.



The City mode adapts battery management to the demands of modern commuter travel. Selecting City mode engages the range-extender immediately, saving the energy currently stored in the battery. When City mode is switched off, the range-extender stops and the Ampera is then able to use the energy saved in the battery for pure electric driving, for example in urban areas or restricted zones.

At A Glance

1. The most powerful and fastest series production sports car Jaguar has ever built with a top speed of 300kph.

2. Heads the XK range with an expected on-the-road price of £97,000 when ordering opens in September.

3. The ultimate expression of Jaguar's sports car strategy; offering intelligent performance with everyday driveability.

4. Uprated supercharged AJ-V8 Gen III R direct-injection engine produces 550PS and 680Nm of torque.

5. Maximum speed raised to 186mph (300kph) with 0-60mph reached in just 4.2 seconds.

6. The only car in its class to emit less than 300g/km of CO2.

7. Active sports exhaust delivers an authentic, race-car inspired soundtrack.

8. Exploits the XK's strong, lightweight advanced aluminium body architecture to maximise performance, agility and economy.

9. Bespoke suspension changes front and rear for ultimate precision, control and driver appeal.

10. Unique styling changes incorporate Computational Fluid Dynamics calculations in order to reduce lift and maximise aerodynamic stability.

11. Revised interior features 16-way adjustable memory sports seats with carbon-fibre effect leather.

12. Reprogrammed Adaptive Dynamics allow the enthusiastic driver to explore the outer edges of the handling envelope.

13. Jaguar's performance flagship competes in the sub-exotic segment, new territory for the company.



Introduction



The XKR-S is not merely the quickest Jaguar ever but also the most agile, responsive and driver-focused. The pinnacle of the XK range builds on feedback gathered from the supercharged XKR and has been developed to extend the performance parameters of the car. This new harder-edged character allows the enthusiastic driver to explore the outer limits of the car's dynamics without losing the refinement and usability for which Jaguar is famous. The structural integrity of the lightweight aluminium platform allowed the suspension to be reworked with bespoke components for increased stiffness without a commensurate loss in either refinement or Jaguar's legendary ride comfort. A reworked aluminium front suspension knuckle and revised rear geometry are allied to stiffer springs and dampers, lightweight forged alloy wheels and recalibrated steering effort to minimise any response delays and produce a more connected and agile driving experience.



The performance of the XKR-S is reflected in both its interior and exterior styling, which feature exclusive new paint colours that reflect Jaguar's racing heritage. As with competition Jaguars of the past, the exterior of the XKR-S adheres to the principle of form following function. In addition to the styling changes and in order for it to achieve 300kph, the XKR-S was the subject of extensive Computational Fluid Dynamics development work. The resulting changes reduced front and rear lift by more than a quarter and optimised lateral aerodynamic stability.



The performance intent of the XKR-S is clear from the moment the driver enters the cabin thanks to new cosseting Performance seats with prominent shoulder wings for close support during hard cornering. The seats feature 16-way adjustment, memory and heating functions while a new three-spoke steering wheel provides the perfect interface between car and driver.



Styling



* Unique, new front-end design with twin nacelles, side intakes and carbon-fibre splitter.

* Extended side sills emphasising the 10mm lower ride height.

* New rear apron incorporating a carbon-fibre diffuser.

* Unique to the XKR-S is a rear wing with carbon-fibre centre section.



Ian Callum, Design Director, Jaguar Cars: "The styling of this car isn't about image, it's about true performance. Like other iconic Jaguars before it, the styling has been driven by geometry and aerodynamics for genuine design purity. The physics required to achieve 300kph have led the aesthetic; if you don't like the way it looks, you probably won't like the way it drives either."



The first Jaguar designed entirely under the aegis of Design Director Ian Callum, the XK has received awards worldwide for its elegant appearance. Now further styling changes keep the XKR-S at the forefront of modern sports car design. Slimmer, LED headlights, more compact main air intake and vertical side power vent all contribute to a more purposeful front-end appearance. At the rear of the car the famous Jaguar 'Leaper' now takes pride of place in the centre of the bootlid.



The XKR-S also required aerodynamic modifications to achieve its 300kph top speed in the unruffled manner expected of a Jaguar and has been designed solely with an eye for purity of line and singularity of purpose. As the XKR-S approaches its top speed, there is a requirement to channel air cleanly over, around and under the car in order to maintain stability and ensure balanced downforce front and rear. An overall reduction in lift of 26 per cent has been achieved.



The necessary revisions were made after extensive Computational Fluid Dynamics work, proven through wind tunnel testing and are unique to this flagship of the XK range. The most dramatic changes have been applied to the front of the car, radically altering its appearance and lending it a more assertive look. A new bumper design features near vertical feature lines running down from the edges of the oval air intake and supporting the new carbon-fibre splitter and lower spoiler. At the extreme edges of the front fenders, vertical slots channel air down the sides of the car and along the wider sills for increased high-speed directional stability.



In order to balance front and rear lift, the XKR-S features a separate rear wing, a first for the XK range. This addition, with its carbon-fibre centre section, works in concert with the similarly constructed Venturi structure underneath the rear bumper.



The assertive new appearance of the XKR-S is subtly highlighted by some carefully chosen details exclusive to this model. Exterior trim is finished in gloss black, complemented by 20-inch Vulcan lightweight forged alloys in a dark technical finish.



The XKR-S is available in a range of five paint colours, two of which evoke Jaguar's competition heritage: Italian Racing Red and French Racing Blue.



Like the lining of a bespoke suit, the finishing touch is provided by the brake calipers, available in either red or gunmetal and emblazoned with the 'Jaguar' name.



Performance/Powertrain



* Third generation of the award-winning AJ-V8 all-aluminium powerplant with twin-vortex Roots-type supercharger.

* Revising the fuelling map boosts power and torque to 550PS and 680Nm.

* Spray-guided direct injection delivers precisely measured quantities of fuel into the cylinder heads at 150bar.

* Variable timing system on all four camshafts features actuation rates of more than 150 degrees per second.



Russ Varney, Chief Programme Engineer, XK: "With the XKR-S we have exploited the inherent capabilities of the aluminium architecture to its fullest extent to create a track-capable performance derivative extending all car's attributes and delivering an irresistible 'smile of satisfaction' response from the driver."



Astonishing engines have always formed the strongly beating heart of Jaguar's road and race cars from the record-setting straight-six in the XK120 to the smooth V12 that made the XJ12 the fastest four-door in the world when it was launched.



The AJ-V8 joined this illustrious list from the moment the first one was fired into life but in the XKR-S it is presented in its most potent form to date. Now in its third generation and with the addition of supercharging, the all-aluminium quad-cam powerplant delivers not only extreme performance but also tremendous efficiency thanks to the technologies incorporated into it, including spray-guided direct injection (SGDI) and dual independent variable cam timing (DIVCT).



Fuel is delivered directly to the centre of the combustion chambers at a pressure of up to 150bar by the centrally-mounted six-hole spray-guided injection system in order to maximise fuel-air mixing and improve responsiveness, particularly at low speeds. It has also allowed an increase in compression ratio from 9.1:1 to 9.5:1 to improve fuel economy while multiple injections reduce the warm up phase to increase catalyst efficiency and reduce emissions.



Each of the four camshafts features a variable timing system which rather than being controlled by oil pressure, are activated by the positive and negative torques generated by the movement of the intake and outlet valves, allowing for a smaller, more efficient oil pump to be fitted, further reducing fuel consumption. The VCT units respond up to three times faster than previously with actuation rates of more than 150 degrees per second at every point in the speed range, making this the most responsive engine Jaguar has ever built, with no gaps in its power delivery.



Like the car itself, the AJ-V8 features aluminium architecture with the high pressure die-cast lightweight block augmented by cast iron liners and cross-bolted main bearing caps which contribute to refinement to match its power. The four-valve cylinder heads are now constructed from recycled aluminium to reduce the environmental impact of engine manufacture.



Nestling in the 'V' of the cylinders is the Roots-type twin vortex supercharger and its two intercoolers that help provide the XKR-S with such urgent motive power. This sixth-generation forced induction unit is 20 per cent more thermodynamically efficient than its predecessor, while the intercoolers feature their own water-cooling circuit to reduce the temperature of the pressurised air to optimise power and efficiency.



The surfeit of power produced by this system meant that it was a relatively simple matter to liberate an extra 40PS and 55Nm over the standard XKR. Remapping the engine's fuelling characteristics and increasing exhaust gas flow through the use of an active exhaust system has lifted total output of the 5.0-litre V8 is now 550PS and 680Nm, making it the most powerful Jaguar road engine ever made and allowing the XKR-S to hit 60mph in 4.2 seconds and breach the magical 300kph barrier with ease.



The Performance active exhaust system that helps provide such spirited performance also produces a thrilling motorsport-inspired soundtrack to aurally reward the enthusiastic driver.



Handling



* Incredibly light and rigid with a kerb weight of 1753kg and torsional stiffness of 28,400N per degree

* New aluminium front knuckle increases stiffness by 0.13 Deg/kN

* Front and rear spring rates increased by 28 per cent

* New 20" Vulcan wheels and Pirelli P-Zero tyres reduce unsprung mass by 4.8kg

* Rewritten stability control software optimises the system for enthusiastic driving

* Jaguar High Performance Braking System fitted as standard



Mike Cross, Chief Engineer, Vehicle Integrity: "This car encompasses everything a performance Jaguar should be; as capable, precise and thrilling on a wet Welsh B-road as it is at the Nürburgring. Every response delay has been minimised in order to give the car a more connected feel in the manner in which it steers, handles, stops and goes."



Jaguar pioneered the use of aluminium construction for series production cars, exploiting the metal's low mass and high tensile strength to maximise benefits in terms of performance, agility, fuel consumption and emissions.



The platform underpinning the XK range makes the car one of the lightest and most rigid in its class with a kerb weight of 1753kg and torsional stiffness of 28,400 Newtons per degree. This fundamental strength allowed Jaguar's Vehicle Integrity team, led by Mike Cross, to develop the dynamic attributes of the XKR-S to the full, without affecting refinement. Every Jaguar achieves an unrivalled mix of sporting appeal and luxurious comfort and the XKR-S is the most driver focused Jaguar ever made.



Taking the solid foundation of the aluminium architecture as a starting point, both front and rear suspension systems have been upgraded. The double wishbone front suspension has been comprehensively revised with a new aluminium steering knuckle that significantly increases camber and castor stiffness by 0.13 degrees per Kilonewton to transform the accuracy and weighting of the steering for greater levels of connection, feedback and precision. The Active Differential Control has been reprogrammed to reduce steering sensitivity at the very high speeds of which the car is capable, increasing stability and driver control.



Rear suspension geometry has been revised with rear wheel steer optimised for maximum agility while spring rates have been increased at both ends of the car by 28 per cent. Bespoke software for Jaguar's Adaptive Damping has been written for the XKR-S, ensuring both total body control and maximum traction and grip.



Wheel sizes have been increased with the unique lightweight forged Vulcan 20-inch alloys now having a width of nine inches at the front and 10.5-inches at the rear for greater precision and grip. The new wheels wear Pirelli P Zero tyres measuring 255/35 R20 at the front, 295/35 R20 at the rear. This combination has reduced overall unsprung mass by 4.8kg with a commensurate improvement in handling and dynamism.



The Dynamic Stability Control System has been reworked to maximise the benefit of these wider tyres. In Trac DSC mode this utilises specific traction, stability and eDiff settings to alter slip thresholds, differential torque distribution and intervention levels to allow the experienced driver to explore the outer edges of the performance and handling envelope.



The XKR-S is equipped as standard with Jaguar's High Performance Braking System. Lighter and more powerful, this features cast iron and part aluminium monobloc calipers for a combination of power, stability and feel. The brake discs – measuring 380mm at the front and 376mm at the rear – are internally ventilated to provide repeated, fade-free stopping power. In combination with pad surface increases of 44 per cent front and 31 per cent rear the system provides total security and confidence on both road and track. Stopping distance from 124mph has been improved by 2.7 per cent over the already impressive XKR.



The end result is a car that captures the essential duality that is a characteristic of every great Jaguar; capable of transporting the driver to the fabled Nürburgring in total comfort and hushed silence, and yet still able to deliver a sub-eight minute lap time and then return home with total ease.



Interior



The cabin of any Jaguar is always a uniquely special place in which to spend time and the XKR-S meets all expectations from the moment the driver enters to be greeted by the red Start button pulsing like a heartbeat. When pressed, the engine fires with an rich, deep reverberation and the Jaguar Drive Selector rises from the centre console as a point of first contact to begin the process of bonding man with machine.



The interior of the XKR-S has been subtly refreshed with a host of new trim materials including ebony soft-feel paint for the switches and gloss black finish to the centre console. The model will also be exclusively available with a Dark Linear Aluminium finish as an option to the wood veneers.



A new leather-wrapped, multi-function steering wheel has also been added, providing a beautiful, tactile interface between car and driver as do the bright, Jaguar-embossed, stainless steel pedals.



Exclusive to the XKR-S are the new Performance front seats with an integrated head restraints and increased lateral and squab support to hold driver and passenger securely and comfortably in place during the high speed cornering of which this car is capable. The 16-way adjustment of squab, cushion, lumbar and bolster elements is supplemented by memory and heating functions.



The sense of occasion offered when driving the XKR-S will be heightened by the new carbon leather accents covering the seats, featuring unique contrast micro-piping and stitching combinations in Reims Blue, Red and Ivory. Duotone combinations of Charcoal with Tan and Charcoal with Red are also available.

The Istituto Europeo di Design of Turin interprets a 100% Abarth future in the all-electric concept car designed by the students of the Master of Arts in Transportation Design - work experience and presents two winning thesis of the three-year Transportation Design course



Participating for the eighth year running at the Geneva International Motor Show, IED Turin unveils a world preview of the SCORP-ION: an environment-friendly concept car designed by the students of the Master of Arts in Transportation Design – work experience a.y. '09/10 and constructed in cooperation with Abarth. For the 81st edition of the Motor Show, IED has measured up the challenge of interpreting the true essence of the Abarth marque, distinguishing this from the Fiat brand with which it is often identified, through the vision of the young car designer.



How to express the pure unadulterated spirit of Abarth, renowned worldwide for compact, intelligent, record-breaking sports cars? IED Turin responded with SCORP-ION.



SCORP-ION (length 4010 mm - width 1905 mm - height 1192 mm - wheel base 2350 mm) embodies all of Abarth's specific characteristics in an unequalled combination of sportiness and reduced dimensions. However, the concept oversteps any current scheme of the production range and is projected towards the future of the marque, according to an extreme vision of Abarth's identity and character.



SCORP-ION has been conceived as an environment-friendly car: a green identity, 2-seater small size and full-electric. Positioning of the lithium battery, from which the car takes its name SCORP-ION (from the English ion) under the load compartment behind the seats promotes maximum rationalisation of space. The engine is de-located in the four wheels in order to exploit the interior to the full; the very low centre of gravity of the vehicle promotes maximum performance and efficient driving, the two-seater configuration endows the vehicle with a generously-scaled luggage compartment.



Overall, the concept recalls the lines of the scorpion – icon of the Abarth marque – and has been designed with particular attention to improving vehicle aerodynamics, also through complete covering of the real wheels.



"It's always exciting - declares César Mendoza, Director of IED Turin - and also a source of a particular apprehension to know that our school participates each year at the Geneva Motor Show without having a definitive vision, from the outset, of the project we will present; a vision that is gradually refined and takes shape once the concept has been completed by the students.



It is this silent confidence in our students and which exists among the school, lecturers and students that underlies the professional growth of each single designer. The concept premiered this year is already a source of great satisfaction as it has provided us with the opportunity to carry out research into a great Italian marque, its character, also considering the use of alternative sources of energy. This study has encouraged our students to conceive bold, innovative styling and volumetric solutions".



SCORP-ION is the offshoot of the work of seven students of the Master coordinated by Luca BORGOGNO, Senior Designer Pininfarina and Luigi GIAMPAOLO, Designer Maserati. The Master of Arts in Transportation Design – work experience is a highly qualified, two-year course intended to train competent automotive professionals able to approach the world of work through a constant rapport between companies and styling centres.



The concept car is, in fact, the result of a process comprising various phases of assessment that simulate a real working situation: starting from the seven design proposals, all the models have been reproduced in clay in 1:4 scale, subsequently selecting that which complied most effectively with the initial brief of the company. The entire class, working in groups, then worked on the project selected to complete all the internal and external details of the concept.



SCORP-ION stems from an idea of: Emre HUSMEN (Turkey)

The following persons worked on the project: Alexandre GOLOSKOK (Russia), Aydar NIGMATULLIN (Russia), Maksym SHKINDER (Ukraine), Karla Dennis SORIANO FARFAN (Mexico), Chrysanthos THERAPONTOS (Cyprus), Marcos VILLALON (Argentina)



SCORP-ION has been constructed with the cooperation of: Pirelli and OZ Racing

SCORP-ION was painted by: GR Painting



Alongside the life-size model, IED Turin presents, at the stand, BIO RENOVATIO and TOROK, concept cars in 1:4 scale, thesis projects of the students of the three-year course in Transportation Design – car design a.y. '09/10, constructed in cooperation with McLaren.



The project focussed on the realization of a hybrid mid-engined open-roof 4WD sports car with passenger cell, for two persons, constructed using the McLaren carbon fibre MonoCell. Adopting a conceptual approach, the students considered a potential vehicle to be launched on the market in 2020: a car able to combine supremacy on the tracks, driving emotions and McLaren's characteristics both on and off the road.



The students who took part in the project worked under the supervision of Fulvio FANTOLINO, Coordinator of the Three year post-diploma Course in Transportation Design – car design. BIO RENOVATIO is a project by: Salvatore CUTAIA, Vasily KURKOV and Jesus Adrian SOLIS GARCIA TOROK is a project by: Michel DI MARCO, Andrea INVERNIZZI and Shariq VIRANI



SCORP-ION, BIO RENOVATIO and TOROK were constructed by: CECOMP

IED Torino wishes to thank ABET Laminati for its cooperation.

Chevrolet's new Orlando family van starring in Paris



Function with attitude: striking crossover look combined with 7-seater versatility

Chevrolet brings great value entry to compact van segment.

World premiere at Paris Motor Show, start of sale in early 2011.

One of four Chevrolet world premieres in Paris Motor Show.



Based on the show car concept first seen at Paris in 2008, the Chevrolet Orlando is a true family car for the times, combining 7-seater practicality and interior flexibility with striking crossover style design.



Chevrolet's new compact MPV eschews the bland designs sometimes seen in the segment, and instead adopts a bolder look with its low roofline and crossover inspired silhouette, while retaining the distinctive and recognizable Chevrolet 'face' depicted by the split radiator grille and bow-tie badge.



The Orlando's low swept roof line is complemented by the muscular, protruding wheel-arches, housing 16, 17 or 18 inch wheels.



The new Orlando MPV has a key role to play in Chevrolet's continued product offensive in Europe, as Wayne Brannon, president and managing director for Chevrolet Europe explains. "The new Orlando MPV kicks off an ambitious seven-product launch program over the next 15 months.



"We're confident the Orlando not only brings great value for money to the MPV class but also something fresh - function with attitude if you like - and the opportunity for us to continue building our volume across Europe. I believe it will also bring more new customers to the Chevrolet brand."



While the exterior of the new Orlando is sure to draw plenty of attention, the interior too features the latest design cues from Chevrolet such as the Corvette inspired dual cockpit and ambient blue backlighting to the center console. However, it's the theatre style seating arrangement of the Orlando's three rows of seats, the generous load area and the numerous storage solutions that will also grab the attention of family motorists.



In spite of the sweeping roof-line, the designers have succeeded in raising the second and third row of seats, which means Orlando's occupants get an even better view both forwards and to the side. And with a wide variety of seating configurations possible, the Orlando can be quickly transformed into one of the most voluminous vans in the class when it comes to carrying loads.



Any hard working family car needs plenty of interior storage space for all the 'paraphernalia' that builds up. Like the Orlando concept car, the Orlando obliges with a range of compartments of different shapes and sizes situated in the center console, front and rear doors, rear cargo area and even the roof.



However, perhaps the most ingenious is a storage area hidden behind front fascia of the audio, and within easy reach of the both the driver and passenger. Seen originally on the Orlando concept car, the designers have been able to integrate a usefully large area which is revealed by flipping up the face of the audio, and large enough for such items as an MP3 player, sunglasses and wallets. Within the space itself, there is also a USB port – ideal for re-charging the MP3 or iPod when on the move.



The Orlando is based on Chevrolet's successful and award winning Cruze sedan, already proven to offer excellent ride and handling. Under the hood there will be a choice of three of Chevrolet's latest fuel efficient engines: one gasoline engine will be available, a 1.8 liter with power output of 141 hp and two diesel units, the latest version of Chevrolet's 2.0 liter engine with outputs of 131hp (low output) or 163 hp (high output).



Customers will also be able to choose from three trim levels with standard equipment on all cars including electronic stability control, six air-bags, air conditioning and power mirrors.



Full production of the Chevrolet Orlando starts in October with the car going on sale across Europe in early 2011.

The Swiss subsidiary from the Japanese producer Mazda is launching a limited edition of its sports activities convertible to celebrate the twentieth anniversary of winning the 24 Hours of Le Mans.



The Mazda MX-5 Sport is outfitted having a two litre engine producing160 hp, mated to a six-speed gearbox and a activity suspension. In addition, it has a commemorative logo particular to this product, and a numbered plaque as a reminder of its exclusive character. Only offered within the Swiss marketplace, it is called MX-5 55 Le Mans , with reference towards the racing prototype Mazda 787 B, winner at Le Mans in 1991 at the fingers of Johnny Herbert, Bertrand Gachot and Volkert Weidler.



Certified 19th in the 1991 race, they climbed into second place just immediately after the halfway point, behind the Sauber Mercedes of Jean-Louis Schlesser, Jochen Mass and Alain Ferte. The Mercedes had an unscheduled visit towards the pit lane at twelve:54 on Sunday, the victim of a leak of its cooling system that forced retirement. The Mazda 787 B then took the lead and Japanese tv packages were interrupted to broadcast he end reside! About the 23rd June 1991, Mazda created history as the very first, and up to now the only winning Japanese manufacturer in La Sarthe. What much more all-natural than to celebrate this anniversary together with the MX-5? The continually appealing sporty convertible that Mazda introduced in 1989, attained a report creation of 900,000 in February 2011.

If 530 PS, one of the world's most advanced four-wheel drive chassis, and supercar rarity value are not enough, Nissan has the answer: the Egoist, the ultimate expression of the famed Nissan GT-R, lovingly created for each owner using only the finest materials.



This exclusive version - specially created by 'father' of the Nissan GT-R, chief vehicle engineer Kazutoshi Mizuno - has a hand-crafted interior using only the best quality hides, a Bose sound system tailored to the owner's exact dimensions and other features that showcase ancient Japanese art forms.

Such is the care and attention to detail given to every aspect of the car that the hand-painted badge on the steering wheel, for example, takes several days to create.

It is little wonder, then, that the Nissan GT-R Egoist, which is built only to special order, is reassuringly expensive and, as a result, is aimed at a very select audience.



"Exclusivity is something the wealthy have come to expect. And while the standard GT-R will never be commonplace, the Egoist combines genuine rarity with the most exclusive materials," said Pierre Loing, Vice President Product Strategy and Planning, Nissan International SA.

"It is meticulously assembled by hand-picked craftsmen and thanks to the range of interior and exterior colour combinations available it is unlikely that two Nissan GT-R Egoist models will ever be exactly the same."



Nissan GT-R Egoist in detail

The Egoist has been developed from the 2011 version of the Nissan GT-R, which itself boasts a number of significant improvements to the engine, chassis and aerodynamics.

Revisions to the twin turbocharged 3.8-litre V6 give more power and torque - up from 485 to 530PS and 588 to 612Nm respectively - along with lower emissions and improved fuel consumption. Enhanced aerodynamics have increased downforce by 10 per cent while chassis and damper changes have sharpened the handling and smoothed the ride.