2011 Fiat Strada Sporting

Fiat's Brazilian division recently released the new Strada Sporting, a special version of the popular pick-up customized with multiple sporty accessories that improve both the exterior and the interior of the car. Pickups are fairly popular in Brazil and Italian carmaker Fiat tries to take advantage of this fact by offering local buyers the possibility to choose a more aggressive version of the Strada, already a best-seller in the country.

The exterior design is all painting in the same color as the body, it is distinguished on the outside by the new aero kit, which comprises of a front spoiler, side skirts and wheel arch add-ons as well as the 16-inch alloy wheels dressed in 185/55 tires. Other styling cues include the smoked headlamps and the silver trim on the mirrors, front fog lights, roof bars and the rear bumper.

Inside, there's gloss black trim, a leather steering wheel (with red stitching) and rubber-studded aluminum pedals. For more flavor, options include a sunroof, Bluetooth connectivity, and a premium audio system.

While the Strada broadened Cab are powered along the Italian firm’s 1.8-liter 16v four-cylinder flex-fuel locomotive acquiring 130 horsepower and 18.4 lb.-ft. By torsion when keeping going gasoline and 132HP and 18.0 lb.-ft.

The truck will go on sale early next year with a base price of $46,270 BRL ($27,580 USD / €20,820).

via: carscoop

2011 Kia Pro_Cee’d

Kia recently released the first official images of the refreshed Pro_cee’d hatchback. To be unveiled at next year’s Geneva Motor Show in March.

A handful of images of the facelifted Kia Pro_Cee’d have managed to find their way to the internet via Kia World. The Kia Pro_Cee’d with communal H-shaped grille make an appearance on the model for the first time, and new, aggressive fog-light insets help give the vehicle a little more personality, too.

The three-door configuration will be also powered by a new 1.6-liter four-cylinder diesel engine, according to a report by kia-world.net, which develops a maximum of 128 horsepower and 255 Nm of torque.

New headlamps, a wider bumper accommodates larger air intakes , changes that will traverse the 5-door and SW models, in terms of the engines is expected to update the current engines that will meet Euro 5 emission standard. We enjoyed the first image as more data arrive.

But the aesthetics aren’t the only thing on that’s changed on the punctuation-laden Pro_Cee’d. Kia World also suggests that the Kia will now come with a slightly warmed-over diesel engine under its hood. The new lump is expected to churn out 128 horsepower and 188 pound-feet of torque from 1.6-liters of displacement.

via: autoblog

Land Rover Discovery 4 Armoured

Land Rover has revealed the Discovery 4 Armoured Vehicle, The model replaces the outgoing Discovery 3 model, offering the same great off-road capability and level of protection, but an updated specification to keep up with the times.

The new Discovery 4 model features a more powerful 5.0-liter LR-V8 direct-injection petrol engine mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. This combination produces a total of 375 HP that can get the SUV from 0-60mph in just 10.6 seconds.

The base car underwent endless engineering changes to safeguard best float as well as doing opening, in spite of a combined weight of a shield. Although a SUV weighs 3550 kg (7826 lbs) heavy duty 6-caliper front as well as 4-caliper back Alcon front brakes safeguard a vehicle stops as well as a standard chronicle. The wheels have been wrapped in run flat Goodyear Wrangler HP All Weather Tires, ensuring the quick-getaway even if the tires are punctured.

From the exterior it’s hard to spot the difference, mainly because there is no immediate difference; it all looks pretty much the same. Nonetheless, every bit of protection plating has been blended in with the car’s design and passes all European compliance standards.

The all-wheel drive Discovery 4 Armoured is also fitted with a Terrain Response System which has various settings that adapt to most types of surfaces such as mud, grass or rocks.
The Land Rover Discovery 4 Armoured comes with a 3-year, 80,000 km factory warranty on both the vehicle and the armour.




Press Release

Land Rover Introduces Powerful New Discovery 4 Armoured Vehicle

Gaydon, Warwickshire, December 17, 2010 - Land Rover is enhancing its range of factory-supported armoured vehicles with the launch of the powerful new Discovery 4 Armoured.

Replacing the successful Discovery 3 model, the Discovery 4 Armoured offers the same legendary all-terrain capability and state-of-the-art protection, but features an upgraded specification to deliver superior levels of performance, luxury and style.

Compared to the previous model, the Discovery 4 Armoured offers a more powerful 5.0-litre LR-V8 petrol engine, improved passive safety with an airbag restraint system for driver and front passenger, and a more luxurious interior with premium leather seats.

With discreet armouring and a generous 500kg payload, the new model provides highly versatile, safe and comfortable transportation for five people and their luggage.

Benefiting from Land Rover's extensive experience in the armoured vehicle market, the Discovery 4 Armoured is supplied with a full three-year, 80,000km factory warranty on the base vehicle and armour, along with comprehensive after-sales support from specialised technicians.

"The new Discovery 4 Armoured offers an outstanding breadth of capability, and enables occupants to travel across challenging terrains in confidence and safety," says John Graham, Commercial Manager Armoured Programs, Land Rover.

"Developed by Land Rover in partnership with global leaders in vehicle security, the Discovery 4 is the ideal choice for government agencies, security organisations and businesses whose employees are exposed to high-risk locations."

Fully certified armouring systems
Although virtually indistinguishable from the standard model, the Discovery 4 Armoured features ballistic steel armour and glazing which provides ballistic protection in accordance with European standards BS EN1522 level FB6 and BS EN 1063 level BR6 respectively.

Developed in partnership with the vehicle armouring specialists Centigon, it also provides blast protection against 15kg TNT (or equivalent) detonated in close proximity to the vehicle and under floor protection against two DM51 hand grenades. The protection offered was certified by QinetiQ®, a globally recognised independent blast and ballistic testing organisation.

"Rather than relying on testing the individual armour components, we have ensured that the entire vehicle is independently certified to B6 standards, so that we can be completely confident of its ballistic integrity," added John Graham.

Comprehensive engineering changes have been made to the base vehicle to ensure that it maintains optimum ride and handling on all surfaces, despite the additional mass of the armour.

The Discovery 4 chassis features independent air suspension, and modifications that include uprated air springs and retuned dampers, larger diameter anti-roll bars, and heavy duty Alcon disc brakes front and rear.

Land Rover engineers have also enhanced the passive Safety Systems in the new Discovery 4 Armoured, with driver's steering wheel and passenger fascia dual-stage airbag restraint systems.

Enhanced performance on all surfaces
Like the standard vehicle, the Discovery 4 Armoured comes equipped with advanced four-wheel-drive technologies to deliver outstanding all-terrain performance.

This includes full functionality of the latest generation Terrain Response System® - an armoured market class-leading feature, which enables the driver to configure the vehicle to negotiate a variety of surfaces, such as tarmac, ruts, grass, mud, snow or rocks, in the most effective way.

For enhanced performance, the Discovery 4 Armoured is equipped with the new 375PS
5.0-litre LR-V8 direct-injection petrol engine, replacing the 2.7-litre V6 turbo-diesel used in the previous model.

Teamed with a responsive six-speed automatic transmission, this refined and powerful new engine offers significantly faster acceleration, with 0-100km/h (62mph) achieved in just 10.6 seconds.

Comfortable and flexible interior
The interior of the Discovery 4 Armoured is both functional and extremely comfortable, providing a commanding elevated driving position and a flexible seating layout for up to five people. The practicality of the vehicle is significantly enhanced by the generous 500kg payload allowance.

Passengers will also appreciate the completely redesigned Discovery 4 cabin, which features a more stylish and sophisticated design with smooth and flowing surface treatments.

The quality of the interior materials has been significantly upgraded compared to the previous model, featuring premium leather upholstery on the seats and sumptuous real wood veneers.

Comprehensive support
Land Rover provides armoured vehicle customers with a comprehensive support programme, both before and after purchase.

A dedicated security consultant works closely with the customer during the sales process, to ensure their full requirements are met. Customers are able to select from an extensive choice of optional security features to provide the desired vehicle configuration.

Once the vehicle is in service, the customer has access to a full driver training programme. An armour specialist can provide optional services which include scheduled maintenance, support and vehicle familiarisation.

All Discovery 4 Armoured vehicles have a full three-year, 80,000km factory warranty.

# # #

EDITOR'S NOTES
1. More details on the Discovery 4 Armoured can be found at http://www.landrover.com/gl/en/lr/professional-vehicles/armoured-vehicles/discovery-4-armoured/

Land Rover Discovery 4 Armoured - Detailed Specifications

Base Vehicle Specification
5.0-litre LR-V8 direct-injection petrol engine
Maximum Power (EEC) 375 PS (276 kW)
Maximum Torque (EEC) 510 Nm (376 lb ft)
6-speed automatic transmission
Kerb weight 3550kg (excluding options)
4050kg GVW
Air conditioning
Land Rover Terrain Response® system
Off road capability (deep sand driving not recommended)
Modified suspension system to accommodate increased vehicle mass
378mm brake discs with upgraded Alcon aluminium brake callipers: 6-pot front, 4-pot rear
Tyre Pressure Monitoring System - where licensed

Armour Specification
European Standard BS EN 1522 FB6 and BS EN 1063 BR6 (high velocity assault rifle)
Side blast protection - 15kg device in close proximity to the vehicle
Under floor protection against 2 x DM 51 hand grenades
Heavy duty wheels and run flat tyres - Goodyear Wrangler HP All Weather Tyre

Optional Features

Essential Armour Option Pack
Driver opening window (100mm drop to allow document passing)
Auxiliary secondary battery supply
Anti-tamper exhaust
Intercom

Maintenance Option Pack
Heavy duty spare wheel and run flat tyre - Goodyear Wrangler HP All Weather Tyre
Heavy duty jack and tools

Independent Options
Covert blue lights and siren system (where legal)
Covert headlight flash (LED)
Under bonnet fire suppressant system
Heavy duty jack and tools
Tinted windows
Intercom
Auxiliary secondary battery supply
Anti-tamper exhaust
Driver's opening front window
Rear payload area glass anti-theft film protection

Specialist Service Option
Global After Sales Support is a tailor made package available on request

Driver Training Package
Armoured Vehicle Driver Training is a tailor made package available on request

Project Kahn Range Rover RS500

Project Kahn from the UK has revealed its latest development based on the diesel-powered Land Rover Range Rover. called RS500,

At the exterior, the tuners decided to pick a glossy black colour together with huge 22-inch alloy wheels. A body kit is also available including a new set of side sills, a new front bumper while in the rear a quad-pipe Cosworth exhaust system is available but also an air diffuser.

The performance upgrade meanwhile increases the output from the stock 313 hp and 700 Nm 4.4-liter V8 diesel engine to 500 hp.

For the interior the RS500 package gets black quilted leather with silver stitching. The sporty look is completed by aluminum decorations on the doorsills, center console, gear lever, air vents, and steering wheel.

Each RS500 is fitted with the Project Kahn Super Sound exhaust system and has a performance upgrade with Kahn Intelligent Power offering 500bhp on the diesel edition.




Press Release

World exclusive- A Kahn Design announces the launch of their brand new Range rover powered by Cosworth-The RS500- 4.4 litre diesel

The Range Rover Sport 4.4 litre diesel (RS500) takes vehicle refinement to the next level. With more focus on the owner, the conversion consists of an outstanding new ten piece body kit complete with a sports exhaust system. The aerodynamic styling package sees the introduction of a brand new bespoke front bumper with fog lamp surrounds in billet steel finish, rear bumper replacement with exhaust diffuser, side skirts, matt black side vents with double mesh, and rear quad stainless steel exhaust system by Cosworth. The kit has been developed by A Kahn -the designer himself and has undergone many hours of testing not only to ensure safety but also to guarantee that perfection is achieved with every car. The body kit has been certified (TUV) and approved by German automobile authorities.

The RS600 package includes a complete interior styling package which sees the introduction of the new bespoke quilted leather interior range to the front and rear seats, glove box and dash board. The steering wheel and gear shift benefit from contrast silver stitching applied against the black leather adding beautiful texture, distinct style and the ultimate comfort. The speedometer, rev counter and clock, feature a shock of electric blue whilst all the while complementing the original design. Everything about the Kahn RS500 exudes style, from the stainless steel door entry sills; side vents foot pedals even down to the smallest of touches such as the Kahn leather key ring.

Their machined billet steering wheel is also available for the Range Rover and the Discovery. Manufactured in Italy and built using the original Land Rover component guarantees an exact fit, fully operational controls and driver airbag functionality. The standard frame is enhanced with a motorsports inspired contoured form and grip and finished in the highest grade lightweight billet aluminum and leather.

Each RS500 is fitted with the Project Kahn Super Sound exhaust system which emits a unique sound emanating from the car as a deep rumble. If that's not enough the RS500 has undergone a performance upgrade, now benefiting from Kahn Intelligent Power offering an impressive 500 BHP on the diesel edition.

The RS500 truly captures Project Kahn's ideology of creating individuality which is enhanced by the inclusion of the Kahn 22" RSX Alloy Wheel and Tyre. The elegant and sculpted alloy wheel designs are created through skilled artistic innovation, state-of-the art manufacturing and advanced material technology. As the UK's leading automotive design house, A. Kahn Design recognises the importance of dynamic cutting edge designs whilst staying true to the original form. The elegant and sculpted alloy wheel designs are created through skilled artistic innovation, state-of-the art manufacturing and advanced material technology.

The full details of the vehicle is as follows:

RS - Aerodynamic Styling Package

• Front bumper replacement including fog lamp surrounds in billet finish
• Side skirts
• Rear bumper replacement including exhaust diffuser
• Cosworth - stainless steel exhaust system

RS - Interior Components

• Cosworth - machined aluminium foot pedals
• RS blue time clock
• Cosworth - stainless steel door entry sills
• Cosworth - leather key ring

Powered by Cosworth Performance Upgrades

• Engine upgrade RS500 powered by Cosworth
• 12 months or 15,000 miles engine warranty
• Cosworth numbered conversion plaque signed by Cosworth chief engineer - Bruce Wood
• Cosworth hand crafted enamel boot badge
• Cosworth branding
Cosworth Complete Conversion

Cosworth - Performance upgrade

• Cosworth - stainless steel exhaust system

RS - Interior Components (Perforated & Quilted)

• RS - Front & rear seats in black leather with silver/white stitching
• RS - Centre glove box

RS - Interior Trim Extras (Choice of Colours)

• RS- 4 door panel tops - quilted
• RS - 4 door armrest stitching - (choice of colours)
• RS- dashboard stitching - (choice of colours)

Russian hybrid car

One of Russia's richest men plans to produce his own hybrid cars, in the next few years. Mikhail Prokhorov says he wants to "break the stereotype that Russia can't produce good cars." The mining mogul — who also owns the New Jersey Nets basketball team — unveiled a prototype of the car in Moscow Monday.

Looking somewhat like large toy cars, the three prototypes shown—a two-door car, a minivan and a small cargo van—are touted as being the world’s first natural gas hybrid electric vehicles. The Yo’s drivetrain is a series hybrid design that operates with two small electric motors, a bank of capacitors and a small engine that can burn either gasoline or natural gas. The engine operates almost continuously, generating electricity that powers the motors directly or charges the capacitors that discharge energy for start-and-stop city driving.

The ë-mobile (pronounced "Yo-mobile") two-door vehicle, which sources all of its parts from Russia and former Soviet Union nations, will cost approximately $10,000 when it is released in 2012. That's ultra-cheap for a hybrid, even if Prokhorov's prototype is more akin to a Pinto than a Tesla Roadster--and it has a loud engine, to boot. The car also has a top speed of 81 miles an hour (again, no Tesla) and a fuel efficiency of 67 miles per gallon.

The new car is in line with President Dmitry Medvedev’s call on business to innovate and help the country economy wean itself of a reliance on hydrocarbons for energy and transport.




Press Release

ë-AUTO Presents ë-Mobile and ë-Philosophy.

Last month, we announced a new brand of automobile. The word "ë-mobile" has since found its place in the rich Russian lexicon.

As promised, we are today displaying three prototypes of three new classes:

ë - microvan
ë - cross coupe
ë - fourgon

We are also presenting the components and cutting-edge technology behind the ë-mobile design.

We believe they represent the best of Russia's intellectual potential.

As a holiday present to the people of Moscow and to visiting guests, ë-AUTO will open its doors for public viewing of the ë-mobile prototypes. From January 2-12 between the hours of 10:00 and 20.00, we will be happy to welcome anyone who wishes to see the prototypes, learn about the technical aspects and take pictures. Entrance is free. All are welcome!

ë-mikroven

Dimensions:
Length 3892 mm, width 1815 mm, height 1611 mm
Curb weight: 700 kg
Gross weight: 1000 kg
The wheel formula: 4x4 (4x2)
Maximum speed: 130 km / h
Acceleration from standstill to 100 km / h: 10 sec
Fuel consumption: 3.5 liters per 100 km

ë-cross-coupe

Dimensions:
Length 4065 width 1832 mm, height 1495 mm
Curb weight: 700 kg
Gross weight: 1000 kg
The wheel formula: 4x4 (4x2)
Maximum speed: 130 km / h
Acceleration from standstill to 100 km / h: 8 seconds
Fuel consumption: 3.5 liters per 100 km

ë-van

Dimensions:
Length 4200 width 1880 mm, height 1870 mm
Curb weight: 750 kg
Payload: 500 kg
Volume of cargo compartment: 4 m3
Gross weight: 1000 kg
The wheel formula: 4x4 (4x2)
Maximum speed: 130 km / h
Acceleration from standstill to 100 km / h: 15 sec
Fuel consumption: 4 l / 100 km