Friday, July 2, 2010

RPMGO.com (former Auto Unleashed)

RPMGO.com (former Auto Unleashed)


BMW presents first Megacity EV sketch and photos

Posted: 02 Jul 2010 04:03 AM PDT

BMW presents first Megacity EV sketch and photos

BMW decided to showcase more info on its upcoming Megacity electric vehicle project.

As you already know, the compact city car will be powered by an electric drivetrain and use materials like carbon fiber reinforced plastics on its chassis and body parts, in order to become an attractive solution for urban environments around 2013.

Now, a fresh batch of details has been revealed by BMW. The Megacity EV will sport a rear-mounted electric motor, capable of outputting around 100 kW (134 HP). While it will boast plug-in capability, an extended-range version, that uses a small capacity internal combustion engine to charge up the batteries, isn’t out of the question.

You can preview the future design through the sketch above, but you can have a more realistic look at how the Megacity model will look like with the chassis photo below.

BMW presents first Megacity EV sketch and photos

The car, as we revealed above, will use a carbon fiber reinforced plastic architecture, called ‘LifeDrive’ by BMW. The company brags that it is as strong as steel and weighs half as much as aluminum.

Rest assured that more details will be made available as BMW continues its research on this new electric vehicle.

Source: Autocar

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BMW presents first Megacity EV sketch and photos

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Video: David Coulthard takes the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG E-Cell for a ride

Posted: 02 Jul 2010 02:19 AM PDT

Video: David Coulthard takes the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG E-Cell for a ride

Mercedes surprised a lot of people when it revealed a working prototype of an electric sportscar, based on the SLS AMG supercar.

The Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG E-Cell, with four electric motors capable of pushing out 526 HP and 649 lb-ft of torque, previews a future performance electric model, which might appear around 2013 in a production form.

Until then though, Mercedes invited former Formula 1 driver David Coulthard to take the SLS AMG E-Cell for a ride. His first impression? It’s silent but packs a great acceleration.

Hit the jump to see the full video of the SLS AMG E-Cell and David Coulthard.

Source: Autoblog

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Video: David Coulthard takes the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG E-Cell for a ride

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Audi reveals R8 Spyder with 4.2-liter V8 engine

Posted: 02 Jul 2010 01:59 AM PDT

Audi reveals R8 Spyder with 4.2-liter V8 engine

Audi made a lot of rich people with seaside homes extremely happy when it revealed the R8 Spyder V10 model (pictured above).

After a lot of rumors though, the Ingolstadt company has finally decided that poorer rich guys also deserve the R8 Spyder, and has revealed a V8 version, powered by the 4.2-liter engine, found in the original R8, and boasting the same folding cloth top as its V10 brother.

The less-powerful R8 Spyder will be able to provide adequate thrills, as the V8 engine is still capable of 430 HP, which are sent through either the R-Tronic semi-automatic gearbox or a six-speed manual, to all four wheels, thanks to the quattro system.

Among the differences between the V8 and V10 Spyder we can find conventional dampers as opposed to the magnetic ones, 18-inch wheels as opposed to 19-inch ones, but you will be able to order those V10 options for a price, of course. The same goes for the braking system, as a ceramic upgrade is optional.

The Audi R8 V8 Spyder will go on sale this fall in Europe, but nothing has been announced about US availability just yet.

Source: Audi

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Audi reveals R8 Spyder with 4.2-liter V8 engine

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Mercedes-Benz might be planning GLC crossover

Posted: 02 Jul 2010 01:15 AM PDT

Mercedes-Benz might be planning GLC crossover

A rather strange rumor appeared recently on the web, concerning Mercedes-Benz and its crossover plans.

It seems that besides the existing ML, GL, GLK (pictured above) and G Class models, all of which being quite popular all over the world, the German company is preparing a GLC model.

This is where things get interesting, as GLC stands for Geländecoupé. As such, some voices have claimed that this will be a direct rival for the BMW X6, a Sports Activity Coupe, while others say that it will attack the compact crossover segment, currently represented by the BMW X1.

We’re on the fence about the actual purpose of the GLC, but considering the impressive sales the X6 has achieved around the globe, we wouldn’t blame Mercedes for trying to get a piece of the pie.

Until then though, if you want a Mercedes-Benz SUV or crossover, you still have plenty to choose from.

Source: AutoZeitung via Autoblog

Post published on Rpmgo.com

Mercedes-Benz might be planning GLC crossover

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2011 BMW 5 Series M Sport package leaked once more

Posted: 02 Jul 2010 12:49 AM PDT

2011 BMW 5 Series M Sport package leaked once more

A few weeks ago, we were treated with a set of blurry brochure scans, depicting the M Sport package that will be available for the 2011 BMW 5 Series.

Now, thanks to the guys at 5Post.com, a batch of quality photos with the accessories package has been revealed.

As you can see above and below, the M Sport package for the 2011 BMW 5 Series does bring a few changes to the design of the new 5er. New lower air inlets, a restyled front bumper and new side skirts were added.

2011 BMW 5 Series M Sport package leaked once more

A subtle rear decklid spoiler also makes an appearance, completing the revised rear fascia, while an upgraded suspension setup makes the 2011 5 Series even more imposing. Customers can choose between two new wheel designs, measuring both 18 and 19-inches.

On the inside, the M Sport steering wheel is present, as is a set of unique seats. A few M badges also decorate the cabin.

Expect BMW to reveal the official details and pricing of the 2011 5 Series’ M Sport package in the following weeks.

Source: 5Post via Autoblog

Post published on Rpmgo.com

2011 BMW 5 Series M Sport package leaked once more

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Video: See a race on the Top Gear Test Track in Gran Turismo 5

Posted: 02 Jul 2010 12:20 AM PDT

Video: See a race on the Top Gear Test Track in Gran Turismo 5

Gran Turismo 5 has been a long time coming, but after the E3 conference, we now have a concrete release date: November 2.

At that time, we were also treated with one stunning trailer video, showcasing all the different types of races you can do, but also the tracks that you could visit. Even though the Nurburgring Nordschleife really impressed us, the images with the Top Gear Test Track really took the proverbial cake.

Now, we can actually check out a race on the Top Gear track, in Gran Turismo 5, thanks to a new video posted on the web.

While it may not be the same without a Clarkson voice over demanding more ‘POWERRRRR’ and name-checking the turns, the footage is quite impressive. Hit the jump to check it out for yourselves.

Source: Top Gear

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Video: See a race on the Top Gear Test Track in Gran Turismo 5

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Mercedes-Benz unleashes C63 AMG DR 520 limited edition

Posted: 02 Jul 2010 12:04 AM PDT

Mercedes-Benz unleashes C63 AMG DR 520 limited edition

The Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG is definitely one might impressive performance machine, available in both sedan and wagon form. With its 460 HP, you can be sure that not a lot of other cars will be a match for the Merc.

Still, there’s always room for improvement. That’s why Mercedes-Benz’s Specialist Products Division, stationed at the famous Brooklands circuit in the UK, decided to have a go at upgrading the C63 AMG.

The result is the Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG DR 520. Why the odd letters and numbers? Because this model is Dyno-Rated at a whopping 520 HP and 479 lb-ft of torque. This translates in a 0 to 62 time of 4.1 seconds for the sedan and 4.2 for the wagon.

Mercedes-Benz unleashes C63 AMG DR 520 limited edition

Both models will boast the AMG Performance Pack Plus, which includes a new brakes and internal engine components, and also matte black or matte white vinyl wraps. Rounding off the package is a set of badges and titanium-finish accessories.

Only 20 C63 AMG DR 520 models will be made sadly, all set to be sold in the UK. The sedan will start at £62,430 ($94,580) and £63,680 ($96,480) for the wagon.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

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Mercedes-Benz unleashes C63 AMG DR 520 limited edition

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Toyota recalling 237,000 models globally due to faulty engines

Posted: 01 Jul 2010 11:38 PM PDT

Toyota recalling 237,000 models globally due to faulty engines

Seeing as how the huge recalls from the beginning of the year are slowly being forgotten and that it has paid a $16.4 million fine in order to please the US authorities, you would think Toyota has a bright future ahead of it once more.

Well, you’re wrong, as the Japanese company has just announced a global recall, affecting 237,000 models. The cause of the recall comes from a batch of faulty engines, specifically the 3.5-liter V6 and the 4.6-liter V8, which contained bad valve springs, that can lead to engine stalling.

The models are affected include the Toyota Crown, Lexus LS460, Lexus LS600h, Lexus LS600hL, Lexus GS350, Lexus GS450h, Lexus GS460 and Lexus IS350.

Owners will be notified all around the world, and a fix will be implemented as soon as possible.

Source: Wall Street Journal via Autoblog

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Toyota recalling 237,000 models globally due to faulty engines

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Russia’s Status Design reveals tuned Ferrari F430 SU 35

Posted: 01 Jul 2010 11:20 PM PDT

Russia's Status Design reveals tuned Ferrari F430 SU 35

A lot of new Russian tuning companies are appearing lately, but Status Design is really taking things in a more interesting direction with its projects.

The newest one is this Ferrari F430 SU 35, which borrows some of its features and styling from the famous Sukhoi Su-35 jet fighter (pictured in the background), which saw service in the Russian Aircraft.

The tuning group fitted a lot of interesting accessories, from the restyled body kit to the impressive cabron fiber rear wing. A new set of wheels were added, in order to compliment the two-tone paint scheme, similar to the F430 Scuderia’s.

Still, it’s not all show and no go, as thanks to an ECU reflash, plus an upgaded exhaust system, the F430 SU 35 is now capable of 525 HP. If customers want something even more potent, Status Design can fit a Novitec Rosso supercharger, which bumps the power level to 700 HP.

Source: Status Design

Post published on Rpmgo.com

Russia’s Status Design reveals tuned Ferrari F430 SU 35

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2011 Alpina B5 revealed, previews future BMW M5

Posted: 01 Jul 2010 06:04 AM PDT

2011 Alpina B5 revealed, previews future BMW M5

Alpina has had a long and steady connection with BMW, modifying a lot of the cars made by the Bavarian manufacturer.

After showcasing the Alpina B7 for North America, the company has now revealed, at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, the Alpina B5 model, based on the 2011 BMW 5 Series.

The model, set to rival the next generation BMW M5, uses the same twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8 engine currently available on the X5 M and X6 M. The unit produces 500 HP and 516 lb-ft of torque in the B5, capable of taking it from 0 to 62 mph in 4.7 seconds and up to 191 mph.

That massive engine is combined with a ZF eight-speed automatic transmission. Even though it might not sound like it, the Alpina B5 is pretty economical, achieving 21.7 mpg (US) on the EU combined cycle and emitting around 252 g/km of CO2.

No pricing has been revealed, and as of yet, it will appear in fall in the UK. Until then, check out the photo gallery below with this performance machine.

Photo Gallery: 2011 Alpina B5

2011 Alpina B52011 Alpina B52011 Alpina B52011 Alpina B5

2011 Alpina B52011 Alpina B52011 Alpina B52011 Alpina B5

Source: Autocar

Post published on Rpmgo.com

2011 Alpina B5 revealed, previews future BMW M5

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