McLaren MP4-12C 2012

The McLaren MP4-12C 2012 is the first sub-£200,000 high performance sports car in the world to feature a one-piece carbon chassis. The MonoCell weighs just 75kgs (165lbs), and is a safety cell which, like the MP4/1, is unique in offering an unrivalled package of strength, light weight and the structural integrity and dimensional accuracy to form the bedrock to segment-beating performance.

McLaren MP4-12C 2012

JOHN WATSON DRIVES SILVERSTONE IN THE NEW McLAREN MP4-12C, THIRTY YEARS AFTER BRITISH GRAND PRIX WIN IN MP4/1

• Watson pilots new carbon-based MP4-12C prior to the 30th anniversary of McLaren introducing a carbon monocoque to Formula 1
• Strength, light weight and structural integrity are key features of carbon fibre chassis in both MP4/1 and MP4-12C

On 4 March 2011, John Watson, former McLaren Formula 1 driver and 1981 British Grand Prix winner in the MP4/1, was invited to Silverstone by McLaren Automotive to drive the new McLaren high-performance sports car, the MP4-12C. The 12C is the first in a new range of carbon-based road cars from McLaren and the first car to feature an innovative one-piece, hollow carbon chassis structure: the MonoCell. The MP4/1, also on display, was the first racing car, and first car of any kind, to feature a carbon chassis.

Watson was joined at Silverstone by former McLaren Technical Director John Barnard, McLaren Automotive Technical Director Dick Glover, and Claudio Santoni Function Group Manager for Body Structures at McLaren Automotive, as McLaren celebrated its role as a carbon pioneer in the automotive industry over the last 30 years.

Arguably the world’s greatest ever sports car, the McLaren F1, featured the world’s first carbon chassis in a road car. This was produced manually and took up to 3,000 hours to complete each unit. The bonded carbon chassis of the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren, the world’s most commercially successful carbon-based car, reduced that manufacturing time ten-fold. The new carbon manufacturing process developed by McLaren for the 12C will mean the MonoCell can be produced in a four hour cycle.

Pioneering this industrialisation process means McLaren Automotive is making carbon a reality to car enthusiasts seeking the ultimate in lightweight and safe chassis construction at a price point more affordable to a wider market.

The new MP4-12C is the first sub-£200,000 high performance sports car in the world to feature a one-piece carbon chassis. The MonoCell weighs just 75kgs (165lbs), and is a safety cell which, like the MP4/1, is unique in offering an unrivalled package of strength, light weight and the structural integrity and dimensional accuracy to form the bedrock to segment-beating performance.

The MonoCell’s composition and construction process were defined over a three year period as the first, and vital, step in McLaren Automotive’s launch as a fully-fledged sports car company.

Dick Glover, McLaren Automotive’s Technical Director, said: “It was a real privilege to see our past and present coming together over our first and latest carbon chassis. John Watson and John Barnard are great characters from our past, and for many of the current McLaren team to meet them today felt really special. They both highlighted the pioneering spirit that led to the development of MP4/1 and that passion to innovate remains intact at McLaren Automotive: the 12C’s MonoCell is living proof.”

Claudio Santoni, Function Group Manager for Body Structures at McLaren Automotive, said: “The MonoCell is extremely light, which helps reduce the 12C’s CO2 emissions to unprecedented levels for high-performance sports cars. It is also incredibly strong and predictable in form and behaviour, providing a great foundation to world-beating performance; acceleration, braking, changes of direction and vehicle stability are all significantly better than on any car with aluminium chassis that I have ever known. This is because, using a carbon composite means we can manufacture the MonoCell with aerospace industry levels of precision, which is fundamental to accurate dynamic suspension geometry control,” Santoni concluded.

On March 5, 1981 McLaren Racing introduced the carbon monocoque to Formula 1 in the McLaren MP4/1: it offered an unbeatable combination of strength and lightness.

It had an immediate dynamic impact, with John Watson winning the 1981 British Grand Prix at Silverstone. It also proved an effective safety cell, with Watson walking away from a dramatic high-speed crash at Monza later that season. Within a few years, every other Formula 1 team on the grid had followed suit, and McLaren’s place as carbon innovators was sealed.

John Watson said: “I’m very proud to have been a part of McLaren launching the first carbon fibre chassis in Formula 1. After that crash in Monza, I was back driving one of our Formula 1 test cars within four days at Donington. Despite the accident appearing horrific to those watching, I was clearly protected by a safety cell of the strength and rigidity the world of Formula 1 had never before seen. I’m sure that because of that innovative technology, I walked away unscathed.”

After making his track debut behind the wheel of the 592 bhp, 3.8-litre twin turbo V8 12C, Watson exclaimed: “The MP4-12C is mind-bogglingly quick! It is by far and away the fastest road car I’ve ever driven. Between 80-130 mph it really feels as fast as my old Formula 1 car. I only drive it in Normal mode, so I can’t begin to imagine what it is like in Sport or Track modes!”

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Piecha Design Mercedes-Benz SLK R172 Accurian RS 2011

PIECHA Design Mercedes Benz SLK Accurian RS

World premiere: New SLK "Piecha Accurian RS"


He is undoubtedly the absolute star of the new outdoor season. The new, third generation of the legendary SLK was long expected and is now available at Mercedes-Benz distributors, precisely to the beginning of the summer.


Obviously, it was a question of honour for the PIECHA Design specialists to develop as one of the first ones an entire styling and tuning programme for the new SLK R172. And thus, they present the "Accurian RS", a sporty, elegant interpretation of the Stuttgart-based roadster. Piecha gives the new, more defined front of the SLK an Accurian RS front spoiler lip with lateral grids. The lip can be combined with a cover, which turns the grid into a three-part piece and further emphasises the LED daytime running lights on the right and left side. For a quieter airflow around the lateral body of the new SLK, PIECHA Design installed a set of Accurian RS side skirt covers.


The covers are bonded easily and positively on the original side skirts.


Furthermore, the opposed installed grids provide for a more prominent design. For all R172 models, no matter whether with the side skirts, the AMG or also the Accurian RS sills, PIECHA Design offers per side four LED recessed spotlights each.


The rear end has a considerable sportier appearance thanks to the Accurian RS rear diffuser, which is available in a small and large version.


The diffusor, which runs up to the subfloor, not only provides for additional output at the rear axle, but also frames the QUADRO 4-tube mufflers in perfection. In both versions, the serial rear apron has to be slightly reworked. Moreover, a diffusor application is available for the AMG styling rear apron. The Accurian RS aerodynamic programme is completed by a classical rear spoiler lip, which has a simple adhesive fixation. Another world premiere are the PIECHA MP1 monobloc high-tech rims, which perfectly match the modern and sporty, elegant design language of the Accurian RS with its newly interpreted turbine design. In the front in 8.5x19 ET25 with 225/35 R19 and in the back in optional 9.5 or 10.5x19 with 255 or 275/30 R19, the MP1 monobloc wheel provides in connection with 25 mm lowering springs for a perfect wedge shape.


Finally, the Mercedes specialists from Rottweiler offer practical comfort top control, which allows for an opening and closing of the top via the serial key up to a speed of 60 km/h.




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BMW M5 Concept Car 2011

BMW Concept M5 had its world premiere at the Shanghai Auto Show 2011. The BMW concept M5 is a premium class business sedan with dynamic qualities of a high-performance sports car. Under the bonnet, a high-revving V8 engine with M TwinPower Turbo Technology generates the power output required for outstanding performance.



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Scion xB 2011

Scion Xb 2011 Car Pictures

Scion xB 2011 is available across US dealerships for $16,950, a slight increase of $150 over the model it is replacing. The 2011 xB will be available in seven exterior colors including the all-new Army Rock Metallic and Elusive Blue Metallic. Hypnotic Teal will no longer be offered in the xB color palette.




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Ford Vertrek Concept 2011

Ford unveiled its latest compact SUV concept, the Ford Vertrek Concept 2011, at the Detroit Auto Show 2011. The Vertrek Concept showcases Ford's evolving kinetic design philosphy through stance, flowing lines and implied muscularity and advanced technology and craftsmanship through exquisite detailing. The sleeker, sportier shape of Vertrek concept is immediately communicated through aggressive lower grille treatment, faster roofline and rising beltline with rear kickup.






Ford Vertrek Concept 2011

* Ford Vertrek compact sport utility vehicle (SUV) concept showcases key elements of the company’s evolving global kinetic design philosophy
* Kinetic design communicates a fun-to-drive experience through stance, flowing lines and implied muscularity and advanced technology and craftsmanship through exquisite detailing
* The sleeker, sportier shape of Vertrek concept is immediately communicated through aggressive lower grille treatment, faster roofline and rising beltline with rear kickup

DETROIT, Jan. 10, 2011 – Ford’s continually evolving global kinetic design philosophy is well-suited to the next generation of compact sport utility vehicles as envisioned by the Ford Vertrek concept unveiled today at the 2011 North American International Auto Show.

“The world is changing and consumers are looking for a new compact SUV,” said J Mays, group vice president, Design, and chief creative officer. “They work hard, play hard and desire a vehicle that reflects that outlook and stands out. We believe the Vertrek concept will fulfill what they’re looking for.”

The core goal of kinetic design is to create vehicles that imply motion even when standing still and convey Ford’s excellent driving dynamics.

“The building blocks of kinetic design – defining the stance and how the body is set over the wheels; strong and precisely executed surfacing; the dynamic, expressive lines and creating a sleeker aerodynamic profile – are all very much in line with what we believe customers want in future compact SUVs,” said Martin Smith, Ford executive design director.

The Vertrek concept takes its inspiration from the European Ford Kuga crossover, hailed as the design leader in its segment, and takes the promise of a future global compact SUV to the next level.

The new sleeker, sportier design intelligently integrates the capability requirements that customers demand in this segment with an interior cargo volume comparable to today’s Ford Escape.

“Overall, the Vertrek concept is a sleeker, sportier and smarter representation of what customers want in a compact SUV,” said Smith. “Additionally, the exquisite detailing, such as the execution of the headlamps, taillamps and wheels, evokes advanced technology and craftsmanship.”

The exterior color is Liquid Platinum, chosen to bring out the strong sculpturing of Vertrek while stressing the sophistication and premium execution of the vehicle’s personality.

Key exterior design attributes of the Ford Vertrek concept include:

* Lower trapezoidal grille: A key design cue, now divided into three sections as first seen with the new Ford Focus, immediately identifies Vertrek as the latest Ford
* Slimmer headlamp and taillamp treatment: Highlights the advanced technology, craftsmanship and detailing throughout the vehicle
* Hood: Muscular surfacing signals advanced powertrain solutions
* Faster roofline: Sleek look conveys improved aerodynamics and fuel efficiency
* Rising beltline: Conveys dynamic presence
* Wheel arches: Create solid, athletic stance
* Wheels: Combine bold sportiness with lightweight appeal
* Panoramic roof: Graphically linked to the rear glass by the dramatic rear spoiler

“Based on the reception of the Fiesta and all-new Focus models, customers are excited by our new global design strategy,” said Smith. “So it makes absolute sense to offer kinetic design in our next generation of compact utility vehicles as well.”

Sporty, sophisticated and roomy interior
The Vertrek concept interior is lightweight and spacious and conveys all the expressive flair evident in the exterior.

As the focal point of the interior, the instrument panel displays shapes and forms that are absolutely unique, and further demonstrates Ford’s kinetic design language. The wing-like profile spans the cockpit and visually extends through the side glass into the rear view camera. The center console swoops into the interior and develops into a central bridge flowing through the vehicle.

The theme of sophisticated craftsmanship is evident throughout the interior, including the instrument panel wrapped in Dusk Grey leather, contrasted and cooled by the satin-tinted platinum tones of the center console. The fluorescent detailing comes as a surprising highlight.

The execution of the four individual seats communicates sportiness and relaxation. The slim seats are clad in naturally tanned, velour leather and, says Smith, “have the robust quality of Bavarian lederhosen.” This is offset throughout the interior by the modernistic touch of neon red-orange fluorescent highlights – an intriguing combination of traditional and high-tech. The seats are of slim construction, showcased by the central spine support.

Replacing conventional carpet, Vertrek concept incorporates handcrafted woven-leather floor materials. Functional elements on the steering wheel, doors, cluster and instrument panel have a polished, premium finish that demonstrates craftsmanship normally seen on premium products.

“The Ford Vertrek concept brings new excitement to the global crossover and compact SUV arena and is our vision of how kinetic design can redefine this increasingly popular segment for Ford globally,” said Mays. “The very name Vertrek signals versatility and capability, typifying the personality of the revolution in this market.”
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Vauxhall VXR8 2011

Today Vauxhall released the official pictures of its all-new Vauxhall VXR8 2011. The new Vauxhall VXR8 looks more edgier and aggresive over the previous model and is more expensive too. It's almost £15,000 pricier than the previous-generation VXR8, putting it less than £3000 away from the Mercedes C63 AMG's crosshairs.




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Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Vaquero 2011

Kawasaki unveiled its latest-cruiser, the new 2011 Vulcan 1700 Vaquero: long, low, wide and packed with high-end custom touches. A 1700c liquid-cooled V-twin engine powers the Vaquero and the power is transmitted from the engine's six-speed transmission via a carbon fiber-reinforced drive belt to the rear wheel. Check out the wallpapers after the jump.





Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Vaquero 2011

Long, Low, Wide and Packed with High-End Custom Touches, the New Vaquero Is One Cool Cruiser

The dictionary defines vaquero as a Spanish-origin word meaning “cowboy” or “herdsman.” Well, if that cowboy happened to be independent, adventurous, undeniably-cool and sported handmade boots and a custom hat, he’d probably ride a 2011 Kawasaki Vulcan® 1700 Vaquero™.

Baggers are arguably the coolest cruisers these days, and it’s not a stretch to see why. The really good ones are low, long, ultra stylish and, with their chopped fairings and hard-case side bags, plenty functional.

The new Vaquero bagger is all that – and much more. Kawasaki engineers and designers didn’t just throw custom paint and a blacked-out motif on a Vulcan 1700 and call it done. They digested valuable owner and market research, and scrutinized every system – engine, chassis, features, bodywork and appearance – to ensure that the bike being developed squared nicely with what cruiser buyers wanted.

Custom, blacked-out details are your first clue to the new Vaquero’s mission, and there’s plenty to see. It all starts with the beautiful Ebony or Candy Fire Red paint on the abbreviated fairing, sculpted tank and curvaceous bodywork that looks as if it could be a mile deep. Luxurious chrome accents (engine guards, exhaust, mirrors, etc.) provide a beautiful counterpoint to the glossy paintwork, but it’s perhaps the multi-textured blacked-out engine and chassis treatment that best highlights the Vaquero’s radical aesthetic look. The engine, air-cleaner cover, wheels, fork assembly and tank cover all get the blackout treatment, which gives the bike a true custom look that’s beautiful and menacing at once. It’s definitely not a motorcycle you’ll easily forget.

Beneath all that beautiful bodywork, paint and chrome is a superbly engineered motorcycle, one that blends power, handling, durability and confidence-inspiring character in a massively functional package. It all starts with the Vaquero’s 1700cc liquid-cooled V-twin, which powers all four Vulcan 1700 models for 2011 – Voyager®, Classic, Nomad™ and Vaquero. A thoroughly proven design, this 52-degree Vee boasts the very latest in engine technology yet looks like a throwback to the past, a time when the V-twin was the engine to have powering your motorcycle. Features include an overhead cam design, high compression and a long-stroke dimensional design that results in the sort of effortless low- and mid-range thrust that’s so desirable and useful in a big-inch cruiser.

Vaquero’s throttle valve system works with the advanced electronic fuel injection to optimize engine response without detracting from its distinctive V-twin throb. The system utilizes an Accelerator Position Sensor (APS) and a Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) that feed data to the ECU, which adjusts the throttle plates to tailor intake airflow accordingly. The system offers a natural throttle feel, because the APS is activated by a throttle body pulley connected by cables to the throttle grip. Besides the obvious FI advantages such as improved fuel economy and automatic adjustment for altitude changes, the system also permits easy hands-off warm-up and idle speed control. Vaquero also features a water-cooled alternator that produces a staggering 46.8 amps of electrical output – plenty to power a selection of electronic accessories to enrich motorcycle travel.

The result of all this new-think engine tech is a massive quantity of usable torque spread out over a shockingly wide rpm range. With 108 foot-pounds of torque, a mere twist of the Vaquero’s throttle delivers arm-stretching acceleration for freeway passing or spirited riding, and the smooth wave of low-rpm grunt is always ready to please when you’re just boppin’ down the boulevard, checking out the scene and chillin’.

Speaking of just cruisin’ along; the Vaquero offers true touring-bike convenience in the form of its electronic cruise control system, conveniently operated from the right handlebar and usable at any speed between 30 and 85 mph in any of the top four gears. The cruise system can be disengaged in any of the following ways: usage of the brake lever, clutch lever, rear brake pedal, or manually turning the throttle grip past the “closed” position.

Additional touring acumen shines through the engine’s six-speed transmission with overdriven 5th and 6th gears, which contributes to a relaxed ride and excellent fuel economy at highway speeds. Power is routed to the rear wheel via a narrow carbon fiber-reinforced drive belt that has a 40 percent higher tensile strength than current Kevlar belts. And that chopped, custom-look fairing? Although lower than a traditional windshield or full fairing, it still cuts a decent-sized hole in oncoming atmosphere, giving the rider a useful still-air cocoon in which to enjoy the ride.

Lockable side-loading hard bags set the Vaquero apart from its Vulcan 1700 brethren. They’re beautifully integrated and spacious, and styled to highlight the bike’s long, low look. A scooped saddle offers a comfortable rider perch, while a minimalist passenger pad sits atop a wildly shaped rear fender that integrates equally stylish taillight and turn signal assemblies.

The frame holding all this hardware together is a single backbone, double cradle unit designed to be a slim and light as possible for an easy reach to the ground and optimal handling. Bolted to the steering head is a mammoth 45mm fork assembly offering 5.5 inches of wheel travel and a thoroughly compliant ride. Suspension in back consists of twin air-assisted shocks with spring preload and rebound damping adjustability working through a beefy steel swingarm. Nine-spoke cast aluminum flat-black wheels hold fat, 130/90 front and 170/70 radial tires that offer light handling characteristics, superb traction and long life. Braking hardware consists of dual 300mm front discs with twin-piston calipers and a 300mm rear disc with a two-piston caliper.

It all adds up to a truly top-of-the-line bagger that encompasses a perfect combination of traits: It’s functional in a wide range of environments, from inner-city cruisin’ to running down the open road. It’s got highly advanced technology. And it’s knee-shakingly beautiful, a bike that’ll put goosebumps on your arms and neck every time you open the garage door to take a peek. We’re sure any hombre would appreciate this one. Custom hat and all…
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