Seems like every country has its own sports car today so when we discovered the Mastretta MTX it didn’t struck as a big surprise. Developed by Mastrettadesign, a company founded in Mexico City in 1987 that specializes in industrial design, the MTX sports coupe will be launched at the 2008 International Mexican Auto Show in December 2007 with sales (Mexican & International) starting in the first
Now this is more like it; Bumblebee standing up on his own two feet, Starscream mucking around in the air and a whole lot more. The final theatrical trailer of Michael Bay’s Transformer Movie is probably the best thing you’ll see until the film hits the big-screen on July 4th. Excited? We most certainly are. Via: Motorpassion Technorati: Transformers+Movie, Cinema, automobile, cars, automotive,
What a glorious day for all ya gearheads: Nanjing Automobile Corporation (NAC) announced that that first Chinese built MG’s have rolled off the production line!!! We hope you know what that means –seriously now, cause we’re kinda left speechless with all this excitement that the news brought us… Well, I supposed I should say a thing or two about NAC MG. The latter obtain the rights to build MG
A re-usable water bottle is part of the attire of any serious enviro. But its uses are limited and, frankly, they aren’t that cool. Which is why we’re pretty excited about this solar powered, water bottle lamp. Using a photovoltaic cell on the top of the cap and LEDs on the bottom, the LightCap becomes a lamp as well as a bottle. It seems pretty well thought out, even including a switch that turns on a low drain red LED allowing you to keep it on during the night. Also a light sensor on the cap turns the light off when it isn’t dark.
The bottle holds 32 oz of liquid goodness and the battery will last at least 300 cycles. Of course, it is a little pricier than most bottles at $24.95. The only element we question is their use of toxic Cadmium batteries. Metal hydrides are so cheap these days that that seems like an unfortunate oversight. Continue reading Solar Powered, Water Bottle Lamp
EcoGeek loves giant metaphors. In New York, an area called the Iron Triangle – it’s in Queens near Shea Stadium and is presently home to auto shops and a ton of pollution – may be in the sights of the old eco-rifle. New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg would like to see the area overhauled and turned into a “vibrant, mixed-use neighborhood” in the city’s largest ever green development project. Continue reading Lest Rust: More Green: NYC’s Iron Triangle
With temperatures on the rise we’re on the lookout for new technologies that can help us keep cool and save energy too. One new tech is the refrigerant known as “R-718”, or more commonly “Water Vapor”. Continue reading The Future of Refrigeration: R-718 (also known as water vapor)
Dynamic logo highlights flexibility of the new Porsche Arena
Stuttgart. After acquiring the name rights in October 2005, Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG, Stuttgart, has now presented the official logo of the new Porsche Arena: Oval, gradated dynamic lines are paired with classical design. The familiar red Porsche logo combined with an energetically depicted arena silhouette in metallic gray are particularly eye-catching. The word “Arena” written in the manner otherwise used exclusively on the rear end of the Zuffenhausen sports cars completes the striking yet discrete expression.
“The dynamic logo is also a symbol for the highly flexible concept of the new Porsche Arena,” summarizes Anton Hunger, Head of Porsche AG Press and Public Relations, on the advantages of the multipurpose hall. In addition to the Annual General Meeting of the car maker and the Porsche Tennis Grand Prix a great variety of sports and cultural events are possible due to the short change-over times. The Porsche Arena is to be opened on May 27, 2006.
Less Show, Same Go – Leather Interior, Power Moonroof – Only 800 Numbered Units Available
NEW YORK, April 13, 2006 – Subaru of America, Inc. today unveiled the 2007 Impreza WRX STI Limited model at the New York International Auto Show. The new edition of the road-conquering Impreza WRX STI packages greater comfort and refinement with subtler exterior styling, but does not sacrifice the performance of this street legend.
The WRX STI Limited will be available in the fall in a limited run of 800 numbered units, 400 in Satin White Pearl and 400 in Urban Gray Metallic.
The 2007 WRX STI Limited delivers all the power and performance of the standard model. This new limited-edition version adds a layer of refinement and design detail enhancements targeted at a new group of driving enthusiasts looking for supercar performance but with an understated demeanor. Designed by Subaru Tecnica International (STI), the high-performance and motorsports subsidiary of Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd., the WRX STI Limited is descended from the Subaru WRC Rally car.
“The WRX STI redefined the performance car category when it was introduced in 2004. We know some enthusiasts have resisted the temptation to buy one simply because they want more everyday driving comfort and refinement, along with less aggressive styling,†said Fred Adcock, executive vice president, Subaru of America. “Now, with the STI’s reputation for pure performance unquestioned, we recognized an opportunity to broaden the car’s appeal.â€
Less Show, Same Go
The 2007 WRX STI Limited stands apart from the standard model with an appearance that’s more low-key, and even stealthy. A new trunk-mounted lip spoiler replaces the standard model’s large dual-plane rear spoiler, and the black aluminum roof vane spoiler is deleted. A new, deep front lip spoiler further distinguishes the WRX STI Limited from the standard model.
New Enkei wheels with high-luster paint replace the BBS® wheels, keeping the same 17 x 8-in. size and 225/45 ZR17 Bridgestone Potenza RE070 directional performance tires. Behind the new wheels, black Brembo® brake calipers with white lettering have a more reserved appearance than the gold and red-painted calipers on the standard WRX STI.
All WRX STI Limited models feature distinctive black gloss B-pillar paint and high luster paint for the exterior mirrors, and this special edition model includes standard fog lights.
New Refined Interior Keeps the Focus on Performance
The interior of the 2007 Impreza WRX STI Limited balances the performance-directed design and attitude with a dose of refinement. Most notably, the WRX STI Limited replaces the perforated blue high-grip Alcantara® fabric seating surfaces with leather and new dark gray metallic bezels and interior trim.
For the first time in a WRX STI, the performance-design front seats are heated for all-season comfort. Also enhancing all-season driving pleasure, the 2007 WRX STI Limited features the first-ever power glass moonroof on this model. Beyond the changed interior appearance, additional features include new carpeting with improved sound insulation materials, an auto-dimming compass rear view mirror and an audio system input jack for an iPod or other digital music player. Finally, each car in this series gets a sequential number plate.
The standard automatic climate control system integrates cabin air filtration. SIRIUSâ„¢ Satellite radio availability enhances the versatility of the standard 120-watt AM/FM premium stereo, which includes a 6-disc in-dash CD changer and six speakers.
Rally Tested and Road Ready
All Impreza WRX STI models are powered by a turbocharged and intercooled 2.5-liter DOHC Boxer engine producing 293 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 290 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 4,400 rpm. The Subaru Active Valve Control System (AVCS) variable valve timing technology helps provide strong torque characteristics throughout the engine’s operating range. A manually operated water spray feature helps to bolster intercooler efficiency during spirited driving.
All WRX STI models are exclusively equipped with a 6-speed manual transmission that features carbon-plated double-cone synchronizers on 4th, 5th and 6th gears to help ensure durability.
Driver Controlled Center Differential (DCCD) All-Wheel Drive
From its launch, the WRX STI has been equipped with one of the most advanced and most performance-directed All-Wheel Drive systems on the market, regardless of vehicle segment. The Driver Control Center Differential (DCCD) Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system uses a planetary-type center differential to provide a 41:59 torque split, with automatic and manual differential modes.
Center differential lock-up is controlled by both a mechanical limited-slip type differential and an electronically controlled limited-slip differential. The mechanical limited-slip differential activates and operates initially in response to changes in engine torque, improving overall vehicle stability when accelerating or decelerating. In automatic mode, the electronic limited-slip differential controls the differential lock-up by evaluating the amount of lock-up in the mechanical limited-slip. The total amount of lock-up is based on the combination of both differentials. A steering sensor input improves torque transfer response by more accurately relaying the car’s cornering situation.
Set in automatic mode, the DCCD system can vary the torque distribution ratio as needed in response to vehicle acceleration, deceleration, steering angle, cornering force and wheel slippage.
In manual mode, DCCD allows the driver to select center differential lock-up to optimize All-Wheel Drive performance for varying driving conditions. The driver first selects manual mode with a console-mounted button and then turns a thumbwheel on the center console to select from among six levels of lock-up. Increasing the locking factor keeps more power at the front wheels (max. 50:50 torque split with 100 percent lock-up selected), which the driver might want in certain driving conditions or on particular road surfaces.
A helical-type limited-slip front differential and Torsen® limited-slip rear differential help to optimize power distribution side-to-side, helping to prevent the inside wheels from slipping during cornering.
Competition-Bred Chassis
A super-stiff Ring Frame Reinforced body structure with a hydroformed front subframe provides the foundation for the high-integrity Impreza platform. Compared to the standard WRX models, the WRX STI models are lowered by 0.4-inch to help lower the center of gravity.
The 4-wheel independent suspension inherits its inverted-strut technology from the Impreza WRC competition car. Aluminum front suspension lower control arms and aluminum rear suspension lateral links reduce unsprung vehicle weight. A quick-ratio steering system yields 2.6 turns lock-to-lock, and the steering rack uses a “cannon mount†for greater rigidity that improves on-center response.
The powerful Brembo Performance Brake System employs front discs measuring 12.7 inches in diameter and 1.2-inch thick and utilizing 4-piston, fixed-position calipers. The rear discs are 12.3 inches in diameter and 0.8-inch thick and use 2-piston, fixed-position calipers.
A combination of Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and the Super Sport Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) helps to reduce stopping distances and understeer compared to conventional ABS systems. EBD provides precise control of braking pressure between the front and rear wheels based on the vehicle load to improve stability and stopping distances. Super Sport ABS, using input from a lateral-g sensor, can control the braking forces at each rear wheel independently, optimizing the braking ability during hard cornering to help reduce understeer.
All Impreza, WRX and WRX STI models are equipped as standard with the Subaru Advanced Frontal Air bag system and front seat head/chest side impact air bags (SRS). The driver’s side air bag deploys according to the driver’s proximity to the steering wheel, as measured by a sensor on the seat track. In the passenger side front seat, a sensor module detects weight on the passenger seat – first determining if it’s occupied, and if so by a child or adult – to control air bag deployment.
Lexus will stage the world premiere of its all-new 2007 ES luxury sedan at a press conference during the Chicago Auto Show on Wednesday, February 8, 2006.
Arriving late this spring, the fifth-generation Lexus ES will set impressive new standards in design, styling, engineering, safety and performance.
The Lexus press conference is scheduled for 9:15 a.m. at the Lexus display area in McCormick Place convention center.
The Land Rover G4 Challenge is the ultimate adventure. Following the success of the very first Challenge in 2003, the adventure continues in 2006. The Land Rover G4 Challenge offers men and women from 18 nations the opportunity to match strategy, stamina and skill in an awesome 4×4 driving and multi-sport challenge. Working in bi-national teams, competitors are matched against each other across four consecutive stages spanning Southeast Asia and South America.
The Challenge will unfold in both urban and remote areas, with one competitor, representing one nation, emerging as the Challenge winner.
General Introduction
The 2007 Honda Fit is designed to take the subcompact market into new territory with its highly refined and ultra-adaptable functionality, sporty driving demeanor and high levels of standard safety equipment. Built on Honda’s legendary foundation for dependability, quality and reliability, the Fit is a premium entry vehicle that emphasizes style, technology and value.
Already an established and hugely popular vehicle in Japan and Europe (sold as the Honda Jazz), the latest version of the Fit debuting in the U.S. has a 1.5-liter VTEC(TM) engine, six standard airbags, an anti-lock braking system (ABS) and a unique multi-configuration 60/40 split Magic Seat(R) as standard features, while a 5-speed automatic transmission with steering-wheel mounted paddle shifters is available. All of the Fit’s features and equipment are designed to give drivers the ability to maximize driving fun, utility and safety.
2007 Honda Fit Highlights
5-door, subcompact hatchback
1.5-liter VTEC 4-cylinder engine
109 horsepower @ 5800 rpm
105 lb-ft. torque @ 4800 rpm
Standard 5-speed manual transmission and available 5-speed automatic transmission
Drive-by-Wire throttle control
Estimated EPA fuel economy of 33 mpg city / 38 mpg highway (manual transmission)
Standard dual front, front side and side curtain airbags
Standard anti-lock braking system (ABS)
Power windows, mirrors and door locks
AM/FM/CD audio system with four speakers (six speakers on Fit Sport)
Available Fit Sport with steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters and more
With a vast array of standard features, the Fit is a premium entry car – providing a versatile, multi-configurable small car that optimizes power, cargo room, handling and safety. The Fit is powered by a 1.5-liter VTEC gasoline engine generating 109 horsepower and 105 lb-ft. of torque. The engine is mated to a standard 5-speed manual transmission or the segment’s only 5-speed automatic transmission. The estimated 33 mpg city / 38 highway mileage (manual transmission) is among the best fuel economy ratings for conventional gasoline engines in 2006.
The Fit Sport adds steering wheel-mounted paddle shifter controls on models with the automatic transmission, while its underbody kit, rear roofline spoiler, fog lights and 15-inch aluminum-alloy wheels offer a sporty, aerodynamic look. Additional Fit Sport features include a security system with remote entry, premium 200-watt AM/FM/CD audio system and cruise control.
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