Spyker C8 Double 12, 2005

Spyker C8 Double 12, 2005

The Spyker C8 is a Dutch sports car series produced by Spyker Cars.

The C8 Spyder is the original base model with an Audi 4.2 liter V8 engine giving the car 400hp and a top speed of 300km/h. The C8 spyder T has a more powerful Audi 4.2 liter V8 twin turbo with 525hp giving it a top speed of 320km/h. The C8 Laviolette has the 400hp Audi engine but unlike the spyder models that come with either a soft or a hard top, the Laviolette has a glass canopy. The C8 Double 12R is a version made specifically for the 24 hours of Le Mans also using the Audi V8 engine with 480hp and the C8 Double 12S is the street version of this car which has the same glass canopy of the Laviolette and optionally has a 600hp engine instead of the 400hp engine from the C8 spyder, giving it a top speed between 300km/h and 345km/h depending on the engine. Both Double 12 versions have a modified C8 spyder frame with a longer wheelbase and a bigger fuel tank, 100 liters instead of 75. The GT2R is the latest racing model of the car and has 450hp and an open top with a metal rollcage. The Spyker C12 LaTurbie is the most recent road model and also has a long wheelbase but comes with a new 12 cylinder 6.0 litre Audi W12 engine producing 500hp. Despite the changed designation, C12 instead of C8, the car's appearance is still similar to that of the C8 models. C12 refers to the twelve cylinders, while the C8 has only eight.

Prices start from approximately €215000 for the Spyder model and go up to €290000 for the C12 LaTurbie model. The GT2R racing model has an estimated price of €325000.
The C8 Laviolette was featured in the opening sequence of the movie Basic Instinct 2.

Racing
The Spyker C8 Double 12R's first race was the 12 hours of Sebring in 2002, though an accident prevented the car from finishing. It also participates in the 24 hours of Le Mans and several other endurance races. Since 2005 it has also participated in FIA GT races with a Spyker C8 Spyder GT2R.

The Spyker C8 can also be driven in various racing games. In Gran Turismo 4, a Spyker C8 Laviolette can be driven. The Spyker C8 Double 12S is one of the supercars available to drive in the Xbox 360 race game Project Gotham Racing 3 and the Spyker C8 Spyder can be driven in the upcoming Test Drive Unlimited.

There are several variants of the C8:
* C8 Spyder
* C8 Spyder T
* C8 Laviolette
* C8 Double 12R
* C8 Double 12S
* GT2R
* C12 LaTurbie

SsangYong Kyron, 2005

SsangYong Kyron, 2005

The SsangYong Kyron is a compact 'soft-roader' SUV (although it is quite big for its class) built by SsangYong Motor Company. It has a 104 kW (139 hp)/310 N·m (229 ft·lbf) diesel engine, with Mercedes-Benz engine parts. Though the engine is a great one in its own right, it does power a car weighing almost two tonnes which makes performance lethargic at best. It is one of the few compact 4WDs to be able to actually go off road, though, with a separate chassis. Its looks was designed by MG's Ken Greely.

The robust XDi270 diesel engine is available on the Kyron increasing the performance to 121 kW (162 hp)/340 N·m (251 ft·lbf). Both the XDi200 and XDi270 uses the 3rd-generation Common Rail technology in 2007. The sophisticated direct injection system boosts power and fuel efficiency, which lowers pollution and saves on fuel. The new 3rd generation ECU is operating on 32-bit platform rather than the 16-bit found on the previous 2 generations of common rail technology.

SsangYong Rodius, 2004

SsangYong Rodius, 2004

The SsangYong Rodius is a large MPV/SUV by the Korean automaker SsangYong Motor Company. The car was designed by Ken Greenley, former head of the automotive design course at the Royal College of Art in London.

It is 7, 9, and 11 seat configurations.
The engines are the Mercedes-Benz licenced 3.2 L 6-cylinder petrol engine ( 162 kW (217 hp) & 309 N·m (228 ft·lbf) ) and the 2.7 L 5-cylinder common rail diesel engine ( 121 kW (162 hp) & 342 N·m (252 ft·lbf) ).

Subaru Impreza 5-Door, 2008

Subaru Impreza 5-Door, 2008

Fuji Heavy Industries Inc. (FHI), the maker of Subaru automobiles, announced the unveiling of its all new Subaru Impreza (U.S. specifications) at the New York International Auto Show, which will be held from April 6 through 15. (Press days : April 4 and 5) The third-generation Impreza will hit the market around the world starting this summer.

Developed around the product concept of new, more refined designs for comfort, the latest Impreza incorporates sophisticated styling and rich interior design, roominess and space, and outstanding comfort and utility, while offering a pleasant and safe ride enhanced by Subaru Symmetrical AWD (All-Wheel drive) with the Horizontally-Opposed engine.

Advanced core mechanism
The new Impreza showcases a redesigned chassis, body construction and drivetrain, as well as substantially improved overall performance, under the theme "Only Subaru can deliver such attractive performance and values."1 It also provides a pleasant ride with ease of handling and integrates performance with advanced safety and environmental considerations.

FHI recently set forth a new theme for Subaru cars that stipulates Subaru's goal: Subaru offers a comfortable, pleasant drive for the driver and passengers; provides peace of mind and reliability; and extends convenience, utility and functionality.

Chassis
The newly designed double-wishbone rear suspension effectively absorbs shocks from road surfaces, ensuring high levels of ride comfort and agile handling.
The lower center of gravity, enabled by the Boxer engine, has been enhanced by mounting the engine slightly lower in the chassis, thereby further improving stability.
Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC), available on a wider grade range of the Impreza lineup, increases active safety.

Body construction
Additional use of high tension steel and reinforced joints has greatly improved rigidity.
Streamlined body construction, while ensuring safety, makes weight reduction possible, which in turn improves fuel economy and maneuverability.

Engines and transmissions
The 2.5-liter Boxer engine features ideal power output characteristics under a practical range of driving speeds through improved mid- to low-end torque. The engine has also been modified to improve emissions and fuel efficiency.
The 2.5-liter SOHC normally aspirated engine adopts a new intake port and other design changes that make improved low-end torque and fuel efficiency possible. Improved emissions were realized by a new catalyst system that optimizes catalyst efficiency.
Incorporating a newly designed intake manifold, intercooler and turbocharger, the 2.5-liter DOHC turbocharged engine delivers improved mid to low-end torque and fuel efficiency.
Transmissions, both manual and automatic, were modified for faster, more responsive shifting and better maneuverability.

Safety
Advancing the Ring-Shaped Reinforcement Frame Body Structure with front and rear crumple zones, the new Impreza has realized high levels of safety and crash worthiness.
All models are equipped with dual SRS airbags, side SRS airbags, and curtain airbags.
A collapsible safety pedal is available on all models to reduce the risk to feet in accidents.

Refined styling and elegant interior design
The new Impreza combines sporty styling with ample interior space and integrates functionality with elegance.

Exterior design
Refined styling is highlighted by a perfectly proportioned body, well calculated panel curves that reflect light and shadow in harmony, and quality details.

Sweeping character lines on both sides express a sense of speed and individuality.
A sporty image is underscored by projecting front fenders and rear quarters.
Projector lamps, used in the headlights, give a dynamic three-dimensional appearance.

5-door model
A clean and elegant line flows continuously from the front grille, up the A-pillar, across the roof down to the rear gate.
An aerodynamic rear spoiler, standard on all models, heightens the car's sporty image.

4-door model
The rear overhang is 165 mm longer than on the 5-door model, which gives the car a more elegant sedan look.

Interior design
Spacious and open interior provides comfort and improves visibility.
Aluminum-look insets in the center panels and door trim add a sporty feel and airiness.
The navigation screen, as well as the vehicle information and audio displays are placed at the top of the dashboard for improved visibility and functionality.
High-grade, double-stitched seat fabrics provide a feeling of quality.

Packaging and utility
The new Impreza rides on a 95-mm-longer wheelbase than its predecessor, which enables expanded interior space.
The all-new double-wishbone rear suspension makes room for a wider and deeper luggage compartment, enhancing the utility of the car.
On the 5-door model, the rear seats feature a 60/40 split folding mechanism that allows various seating arrangements and increases cargo capacity. The wide and flat load floor can accommodate two Tour-size golf bags, or five carry-on bags.
The 4-door model provides a larger trunk that can accommodate three Tour-size golf bags. The rear seats feature standard 60/40 split backs, giving pass-through access to the trunk.
Larger door openings, which are enabled through new sash construction, afford improved ingress and egress, and the rear doors open 75 degrees to allow for better rear seat access.
The door panels house molded recesses that can hold 720-mL PET bottles.

Subaru Forester, 2008

Subaru Forester, 2008

The new Forester has realized ideal proportions that provide ample interior space and offer improved utility without substantially enlarging the body size.

Compared to the previous model, the new Forester is 110 mm taller (excluding the roof rail) and 45 mm wider, and its wheelbase has been expanded by 90 mm, increasing interior space and improving riding comfort. On the other hand, the overall distance between the ends of the right and left door mirrors has been shortened by 10 mm through mirror position and design changes. Also, the minimum turning radius was made shorter by 0.1 meter for zippy handling.
Off-road capability is further improved by optimization of approach and departure angles, coupled with a generous 225-mm ground clearance.

The double-wishbone rear suspension makes room for a deeper and wider luggage compartment. This enhances the utility of this car that already features cargo area tie-down hooks and a DC12V/120W power outlet, as well as a push button switch for folding down the rear seat backs.

Larger door openings, which are enabled through new sash construction, afford improved ingress and egress, and the rear doors open 75 degrees to allow for better rear seat access.

Through the enhancement of body rigidity, less road noise reaches the interior of the car. All door openings are sealed with double-layered weather stripping placed along the door trim for the optimal pressure to tightly seal the doors and ensure a quieter ride.

The multi-functional center console provides a spacious compartment that can accommodate an A4-size notebook PC and a purse of equivalent size. It also incorporates a removable tray that can be used to hold portable media players and cell phones. The console compartment has a sliding lid that is cushioned on top to serve as an armrest.
A retractable rear tray with a cup holder is installed between the rear seats, further elevating rear passenger comfort. (Available on the 2.0XS and 2.0XT)

Exterior design
Streamlined, yet sculpted styling evokes images of powerful, well defined muscles carved out of stone.

Sharply defined character lines running from the sides of headlights to the tail lights, combined with boxed front fenders and projected rear quarter panels, accentuate a more pronounced SUV profile.

The center of the redesigned front grill is metallic gray in color, making a sharp yet elegant contrast to its chrome-plated contours.

Headlamps are chrome-plated on the inside to project the light outward evenly. Rear lights are clustered and designed to highlight a luminous and translucent look in the rear styling.

17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels with distinctively sculptured spokes emphasize the vehicle's commanding presence and high quality. 16-inch aluminum-alloy wheels also feature sharp lines of spokes, expressing high quality and smartness.

Interior design
Decorative insets with a brushed aluminum-look flow from the center panel of the dashboard to the door trim, adding spaciousness and airiness in the interior and stressing sportiness in the cockpit. Rich and refined interior design is accentuated by the center panel, which combines wood and metal finishes, as well as by the door trim, embellished with metal-finish panels for window and door switches.

The vehicle information display, which constantly shows outside temperature, average mileage and time on the digital clock, as well as a navigation screen and audio display, are placed nearer the top of the dashboard for improved visibility and functionality.

The front seat cushions employ highly resilient urethane materials that effectively absorb vibration during a drive. In addition, newly developed seatback springs firmly support the driver's hips and back to maintain the optimal driving position.

Drivetrain
An expanded ground clearance further improves the off-road capability of the vehicle. The raising of the clearance does not alter the low center of gravity that is attained by mounting the engine low in the vehicle, thereby securing outstanding vehicle stability.

4-speed AT models are equipped with the Sportshift gear selection. By optimizing the final gear ratio and torque convertor characteristics, as well as through reducing friction among part assemblies, driving performance and fuel economy has been improved. The N Control System on AT models automatically shifts the transmission back to neutral from driving positions after the brake pedal is depressed for some time. Gear shift operation has also been enhanced by the redesigned shift lever positions and the use of roller bearings.

The SI-Dive (Subaru Intelligent Drive) system on the 2.0XT model offers three different modes of driving for the driver to enjoy: Intelligent; Sport; and Sport Sharp.

Gear ratios on MT models, from the second through the five-speed, as well as the final drive gear ratio, have been modified to improve driving performance and fuel economy. Reducing friction inside the transmission also contributes to better gear shift operation on MT models.

The Active Torque Split AWD system is mounted on AT models. MT models come with the center differential AWD system with viscous LSD (limited slip differential). Both AWD systems distribute optimal power to the wheels with the firm grip and traction, providing unrivalled vehicle stability.

The Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) is standards on all models. Fed by information gathered by sensors that monitor vehicle and road conditions, the VDC coordinates the engine, transmission, and brakes in order to recover the vehicle's position should unstable movements occur on a slippery road.

2.0-L DOHC engines on the 2.0X and 2.0XS
Fuel economy has been improved with the redesigned DOHC cylinder head, as well as through optimization of the compression ratio and reduction of the volume of the combustion chamber.

Low-end and mid-range torque is improved, while better fuel economy and lower gas emissions are achieved, primarily through design changes in the engine that generate a stronger tumble gas flow and raise gas intake efficiency.

The use of AVCS contributes to higher power output, while fuel economy is also achieved by improving combustion efficiency through the optimized timing of valve openings and closings.
A design change in the cooling water channel around the spark plug further prevents engine knocking and also helps improve low-end and mid-range torque output.

With the optimization of the diameter and length of the intake manifold, and the adoption of the equal length/constant pulsation independent exhaust system, the engine's intake and exhaust performance has been elevated.

2 catalytic convertors have been placed in tandem. The layout enables the convertors to quickly heat up, which facilitates catalytic activation during engine startup and improves on emission reduction efficiency.
The twin mufflers expand the muffler capacity, bringing noise levels down even lower and reducing exhaust back pressure.

2.0-L DOHC Turbo engine
A newly developed DOHC cylinder head is used in this engine. The intake port and the combustion chamber have been redesigned to reduce residual gasses, thus raising combustion efficiency.

By using a resin-based intake manifold, the inner walls of the manifold are smooth and less resistant to the intake flow. The weight is also reduced by 30% compared to the earlier manifold.
A design change in the cooling water channel around the spark plug further prevents engine knocking and also helps improve low-end and mid-range torque output.
The injector nozzle has been redesigned to atomize fuel and finely disperse it into the combustion chamber for improved combustion. This also helps reduce harmful substances in emissions.

Adopted is a secondary air system that forces air into the exhaust port to burn out any gasoline remaining in it. The system helps eliminate harmful substances when the powertrain is still cool, and it promotes early activation of catalytic converters.

The twin mufflers expand the muffler capacity, bringing noise levels down even lower and reducing exhaust back pressure.
Powered by regular gasoline, the 2.0-L naturally aspirated Boxer engine features better combustion efficiency, as well as eco-friendly performance and fuel economy, thanks to a newly designed DOHC cylinder head and the use of the active valve control system (AVCS).

Tesla Roadster, 2008

Tesla Roadster, 2008

Tesla Roadster Specifications
* Style: 2-seat, open-top, rear-drive roadster
* Drivetrain: Electric motor with 2-speed electrically-actuated-manual-shift transmission with integral differential
* Motor: 3-phase, 4-pole electric motor, 248hp peak (185kW), redline 13,000 rpm, regenerative "engine braking"
* Chassis: Bonded extruded aluminum with 4-wheel wishbone suspension
* Brakes: 4-wheel disc brakes with ABS
* 0-60 mph acceleration: under 4 seconds
* Top Speed: 125 mph
* Range : ~220 miles (based on EPA combined city/highway cycle)
* Battery Life: Useful battery, 100,000 miles
* Energy Storage System: Custom microprocessor-controlled lithium-ion battery pack
* Full Charge: ~3.5h

Suspension
* Front: independent; upper and lower wishbone; co-axial coil spring/telescopic damper unit; anti-roll bar
* Rear: independent; upper and lower wishbone; co-axial coil spring/telescopic damper

Wheels
* Type: Forged Light alloy
* front: 5.5J x 16
* rear: 7.5J x 17

Tires
* Type: Yokohama Neova AD07 LTS
* front: 175/55 R16
* rear: 225/45 R17

Tesla Roadster Dimensions (in. / mm)
* Overall length: 155.4 / 3946
* Overall width - incl. mirrors: 73.7 / 1873
* Overall height (at curb weight): 44.4 / 1127
* Wheelbase: 92.6 / 2352
* Track - front: 57.6 / 1464
* Track - rear: 59.0 / 1499
* Curb weight: ~2690 pounds
* Leg Room (in./mm): 42.0 / 1067
* Front Head Room (in./mm): 36.7 / 932
* Front Shoulder Room (in./mm): 26.0 / 660

Tesla Roadster Standard Interior features
* Heated sport seats with inflatable lumbar support
* Three-spoke leather-wrapped sport steering wheel
* Smooth leather seats and trim in black, dark gray, light gray, or beige
* Blaupunkt stereo sound system with single-disc CD player, iPod interface, and MP3 playback
* Cruise Control
* Homelink universal transmitter to operate compatible garage, gate, and home lighting/home security systems
* Power windows and locks
* Air conditioning
* Single retractable cup holder

Tesla Roadster Standard Exterior Features
* Double-insulated black soft top
* Proprietary halogen low- and high-beam headlamp assemblies
* LED tail lights
* Forged uni-directional seven-spoke wheels in silver finish: 16" front, 17" rear
* Locking wheel lugs
* Tire Inflator/sealant
* Cold weather ESS heater for cold weather charging to -20 degrees Celsius
* Home-based charging system with integral safety features for 3.5 hour full re-charge

Tesla Roadster Standard Safety and Security Features
* Four-sensor, four-channel Anti-lock Braking Systems (ABS)
* Traction control
* Tire pressure monitoring system
* Front and rear crumple zones
* Driver and passenger front airbags
* Rigid occupant safety cell
* Side impact door beams
* Seatbelt pretensioners
* Integrated headrests
* Vehicle theft-deterrent and engine immobilizer system
* PIN for security in operating the vehicle
* Valet mode to restrict speed, acceleration, and distance

Tesla Roadster Factory-installed options and accessories
* Premium leather seats available in nine colors with embroidered Tesla Motors logo
* Microfiber, non-leather seats in black
* Bluetooth cellular phone integration
* Satellite radio with 170 channels of digital sound
* Seven-speaker premium sound system tuned for Tesla Roadster cockpit
* Touch-screen navigation system with voice guidance
* Matching body-colored carbon fiber hardtop with full headliner
* Metallic and premium paint
* Tesla Motors custom floor mats
* Mobile charging system

Think city, 2008

Think city, 2008

TH!NK city demands very little of you. In fact, not much more than a mobile phone. Just a little overnight power top-up, and it's ready to go in the morning. It can travel up to 170 kilometer (106 miles) on a fully charged battery and all for a fraction of the cost of petrol or diesel. All in all, TH!NK city is a lot less hassle than other cars. You just get in and drive.

Making everyday life simpler
National and local authorities are increasingly making it cheaper and more convenient to drive electric cars. In London the TH!NK city is exempt from the congestion charge. In Italy access to certain city centers is restricted for internal combustion engines but open to electric vehicles. In Norway you can drive TH!NK city through toll booths free of charge and in the special public transport lanes the entire way to work. You don't have to pay car tax every year, either. The authorities will just love you after all, politicians want the same thing as you: to protect the environment. They make it easy for you to drive TH!NK city, because it has no emissions. Did we mention that in many places you don't have to pay for public parking? It's a whole new world. And much simpler. The road is a much friendlier place when you drive TH!NK city. Contact your local authorities and see what incentives they have to make your city cleaner.

Making running a car simpler
TH!NK city is a safe small car, offering driving features that are just perfect for you. Driving a silent car will give you a totally new everyday experience. And because electric motors don't have many moving parts that require servicing, you'll also enjoy the benefit of low operating and maintenance costs. Thanks to the car's unpainted plastic bodywork, the Think City can take the rough and tumble of city life without the usual visible dents and scratches.

Safety
A comprehensive, well-established safety concept makes TH!NK city a very safe car. Behind the wheel, you are protected and secure even if you are involved in a collision. The car is equipped with ABS brakes, airbags and three-point safety belts with pretensioners. The frame is designed to absorb energy and distribute it away from the passenger cell. Even the dashboard and knee padding have been developed to absorb impact. To further protect the driver and passengers, both doors have side impact bars and pusher blocks made of shockabsorbent materials. The ceiling, the front beam above the windscreen, and much of the interior are upholstered with shock absorbent foam.

Design
The combination of a smart choice of materials, clever details and a focus on clean lines and surfaces have made the TH!NK city a prize-winning Norwegian design. The powerful shoulder line and well-defined wheel arches give the car a stance that clearly highlights its superior road handling and excellent driving features. The side indicator lights prominently placed on the wheel arches add innovative looks to exemplary functionality. TH!NK city's body is made of recyclable ABS plastic, designed for city driving, ideal for anyone wanting to avoid visible scratches and irritating little dents.

The car's interior is designed to offer the driver a pleasant environment, where the emphasis is on providing a clear view of the traffic. The interior has a feeling of space, with instruments that are easy to read. Form, quite simply, follows function. For instance, you can sit in complete comfort with your seat in the perfect position to allow you to quickly get in and out of the car during your busy daily schedule. The glass rear hatch allows you to see right down to the bumper of the car behind you when reversing. This means you can now parallel park with accuracy and control.

Designed with the environment in mind
Engineers, developers, buyers and designers have focused on the same thing: clean recyclable materials, non-polluting production processes, and the best possible use of materials. All this gives you a clean car. For example, the dashboard can be completely recycled. The fabric, body, supports, air ducts, adhesives and fixings are designed using the same recyclable materials. We have also used materials that have already been recycled wherever we could. 16% of TH!NK city is actually made from recycled materials. The plastic bodywork and other plastic panels have not been painted. This has enabled us to protect the environment from pollutants and use less energy, while also making the panels easier to recycle. Even the batteries are returned to the supplier at the end of their useful life.

Drive three times as far on the same amount of energy
A conventional car with an internal combustion engine - either petrol or diesel - uses less than 30% of its energy in getting to its destination. The remainder is lost to friction and heat. In a TH!NK city, 90% of the energy is channeled directly into getting you to your destination. In other words, its energy efficiency is three times higher than that of a car with an internal combustion engine. So, you can drive three times further for the same amount of energy. That's an energy saving proposition worth thinking about.

Thinking globally
The most environmentally friendly electricity comes from renewable energy sources, such as hydro-electric power. If you don't have an agreement with a power supplier who can guarantee you clean power, you risk using energy from non-renewable sources. To compensate for this, Think will pay for carbon offset certificates for the portion of your electricity that generates CO2 emissions.

Acting locally
TH!NK city has zero tailpipe emissions. In fact, it doesn't have a tailpipe. No CO2 emissions. No NOx (nitrogen oxide) emissions. No particle emissions. This makes your local environment a cleaner place to live.

Specifications:
* Number of seats 2 (2 rear seats incl 3-point seat belts as an optional extra)
* Number of doors 3 including rear hatch
* Length 3120 mm
* Width 1604 mm
* Height 1548 mm
* Turning radius 4,5 m
* Net wehicle weight 1113 kg
* Total weight 1397 kg
* Load capacity 284 kg
* Top speed 100 km/h
* Acceleration 0-50 km/h 6.5 seconds
* Acceleration 0-80 km/h 16.0 seconds
* Gradient 30% from stationary
* 5% gradient 300 seconds at constant 90 km/h
* Range IEC 170 km (summer tires, heater off)
* Range FUDS 180 km (summer tires, heater off)
* Range EU UDC 203 km
* Typical charge time:
o 0-100% SOC (state of charge) approx. 10 hours, 230 VAC / 14A
o 0-80% SOC (state of charge) approx. 8 hours, 230 VAC / 14A

Standard Equipment
* 2 front airbags
* Disable key for passenger airbag
* ABS brakes
* Regenerative brakes
* Power steering
* 4 kW electric heater
* Electric windows and mirrors
* 2 loudspeakers and aerial
* Central locking
* Mindbox

Extra Eqipment
* Pre-heat timer
* Electrically heated windscreen
* Full length sunroof
* Radio CD
* Radio with MP3
* Radio CD with MP3, USB, Bluetooth
* Winter tyres
* Alloy wheels
* Steel wheels
* Roof rack
* 2+2 seats (including 3-point seat belts)