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Geneva 2009: Quant Concept by Koenigsegg unveiled

March 6, 2009 at 12:04 pm By Harvinder Sidhu Filed Under 2009 Geneva Motor Show, Cars, Concept Cars, Hybrids and Alternative Fuel

Koenigsegg has arrived in Geneva with its Quant Concept vehicle which is a 4-seater solar powered electric super car. According Koenigsegg, if the Quant goes into production, it can be fully recharged in just 20 minutes, and with that it can deliver 500 kilometers in terms of driving range. The company also revealed that the batteries can be charged an unlimited number of times with no degradation. Further power can also be drawn from a thin film photovoltaic coating on the body and from the four-wheel brake regeneration.

This rear wheel drive, futuristic looking concept is said to be able to deliver 512HP at the touch of the accelerator with 715Nm of torque. Naught to 100 km/h is achieved in 5.2 seconds and it can do a top speed of 275 km/h. Other preliminary features include; 6 air bags, ABD, ESP, 3 zone climate control, LED front and rear lights, among others.

Koenigsegg has yet to release any other details regarding pricing as well as a potential production date. Meanwhile, continue reading to view an image gallery.
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Geneva 2009: The Infiniti Essence Concept

March 6, 2009 at 11:47 am By Harvinder Sidhu Filed Under 2009 Geneva Motor Show, Cars, Concept Cars, Hybrids and Alternative Fuel, Infiniti

Nissan has uncovered the Infiniti Essence Concept which also seem to like the Zagato Perana Z-One sports car. This sexy looking concept also has hints of the Maserati GranTurismo especially with its front fascia. But what differentiates the Essence concept from the first two vehicles mentioned above is that, apart from featuring a typical 434HP 3.7 litre V6 with twin turbos and direct injection, this sports car also features an electric drive system, hence, it is called a gas-electric hybrid sports car.

This also means that apart from the obvious improvement in fuel efficiency and a reduced emissions output, the Essence gets an extra 158HP from its electric motor which is also called a “3D Motor” that draws its energy from a lithium ion battery pack. Hence, total power output is rated at 592HP. Energy usage is fully optimized thanks to two separate clutches which “switch in” the motors when required. The reason behind the the 3D term is that its design was achieved by utilizing a 3D magnetic field analysis to optimize the layout of the electromagnetic coils and permanent magnets.

Safety wise, the concept comes fitted with Distance Control Assist (DCA), Lane Departure Prevention (LDP), Side Collision Prevention (SCP) and Back-up Collision Prevention (BCP) that make up the Safety Shield system. The driver-focused interior which is finished in a combination of leather, Alcantara and hand-painted wood features a flat-bottomed steering wheel and chronometer-style dials. In fact, the auto maker has collaborated with famous designer label Louis Vuitton to produce a set of high quality luggage made to fit the car’s boot area exactly. Continue reading to view an image gallery.
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Geneva 2009: Zagato Perana Z-One

March 6, 2009 at 11:37 am By Harvinder Sidhu Filed Under 2009 Geneva Motor Show, Cars

Zagato has officially launched the sexy-looking Perana Z-One at the Geneva Motor Show. The gorgeous exterior design with front design cues that remind you of the Maserati GranTurismo is complemented by an equally stunning Corvette-sourced all aluminium 6.2 litre V8 that is capable or producing 449HP and 583Nm of torque at 6,600 revs.

Developed by Zagato and Perana Performance Group from South Africa, only 999 units of the Z-One will be built annually in Europe to ensure exclusivity and to commemorate the 90 years of Zagato’s design. Expected to go on sale by June this year, the Z-One is also expected to put up a tough fight with its competitors thanks to its extremely competitive price point; slightly less than 50,000 Euros for the base model, which is excellent!

The 1195 kilograms sports car which measures 4406 mm in length, 1233 mm in height and 1924 mm in width features a 50/50 weight distribution, a 6 speed manual transmission as well as a ZF Limited Slip differential. The front/mid engined vehicle also comes with unequal length A-arms, Eibach springs, Bilstein shocks and anti-roll bars for the front and rear suspension systems. With Michelin PS2 tires, the Z-One is able to hit 100 km/h in slightly less than 4 seconds, while the 160 km/h mark can be achieved within 10 seconds. The auto maker did not reveal the top speed figure. Meanwhile continue reading to salivate over an image gallery.
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Geneva 2009: RHD Volt-based Vauxhall Ampera to be produced by 2012

March 6, 2009 at 11:29 am By Harvinder Sidhu Filed Under 2009 Geneva Motor Show, Cars, Chevrolet, Holden, Hybrids and Alternative Fuel, Opel, Vauxhall

General Motors has revealed Vauxhall’s interpretation of the Chevy Volt which will be offered in a right hand drive form, and that potential buyers can expect a production version by 2012. Based on the Chevy Volt and the Opel Ampera, this almost similar looking Vauxhall Ampera also features the Voltec electric propulsion system, meaning for journeys of up to 60 kilometers, it runs on electricity stored in the 16-kWh, lithium-ion battery pack and this is done by emitting zero emissions.

Once energy in the battery pack is depleted, electricity generated from an engine-generator extends the Ampera’s range to more than 500 km. Recharging can be performed via a 230 volt house hold power outlet. GM also revealed that its Australian subsidiary Holden, will offer its own version of the Volt/Ampera for the Australian market. Personally, the Ampera looks a little better than the more down to earth Volt. Continue reading to view an image gallery.
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New Tata PR1MA Concept designed by Pininfarina

March 6, 2009 at 4:08 am By Paul Tan Filed Under 2009 Geneva Motor Show, Cars, Concept Cars, India, International News, Tata

Tata Prima
Tata Prima

The Tata Prima is the first collaboration between Tata and Italian company Pininfarina and is based on the Tata Indigo platform stretched to a 2,700mm wheelbase. It kinda looks somewhat like a Nissan Sylphy actually, and you can see some latest design “trends” incorporated there although some can be considered overkill – it has TWO sets of daytime running lights – you get one strip on each side the bumper and another set integrated into the headlamps. I feel Tata should really reconsider a stronger corporate grille for its car. The front end that ended up on this one kinda makes it look like a smart forfour when viewed head-on. A prominent and good-looking corporate grille is really important. Hyundai has found a new one in their i-series of cars, albeit somewhat shamelessly ripped off from the pre-facelift current generation Honda Civic, while Kia has its new H-grille design penned by Peter Schreyer. Look after the jump for a gallery of the Tata PR1MA Concept.
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Geneva 2009: Audi presents the high performance TT RS Coupe & Cabriolet

March 5, 2009 at 2:06 pm By Harvinder Sidhu Filed Under 2009 Geneva Motor Show, Audi, Cars, Videos

As expected, the Audi TT RS Coupe and Cabriolet was launched in Geneva, and also as expected, both high performance versions of the beautiful Audi TT feature the 2.5 litre TFSI turbocharged 5-cylinder power plant with direct injection that is capable of 340HP and 450Nm of torque. Both all wheel drive models also offer excellent power to weight ratios thanks to the implementation of Audi’s Space Frame design. The Coupe weighs 1,450 kilograms which means it offers 4.3 kilograms per HP while the Cabriolet weighs 1,510 kilograms which translates into 4.4 kilograms per HP.

Thanks to those figures, plus the fact that the engine only weighs 183 kilograms, the Coupe hits the 100 km/h in 4.6 seconds while the Cabriolet does it in 4.7 seconds, and top speed figures for both models are rated at 250 km/h, although Audi revealed that buyers have the option to increase the top speed to 280 km/h. Both models also offer reasonable fuel consumption figures; 9.2 litres per 100 kilometers for the Coupe and 9.5 litres 100 kilometers for the Cabriolet. The power plant is coupled with a revised 6 speed manual transmission.

With 18-inch 5-spoke wheels, the exterior is treated to a number of face lifts that make the new TT worthy of the RS badge including large and squared air inlets with diamond-shaped inserts, a spoiler that tapers downward into a splitter, high-gloss black single frame grille with a frame in matt aluminum look and Xenon headlights with LED daytime running lights up front. With vigorous side sills and exterior-mirror casings in matt aluminum look on the side profile, the rear is finished with two large oval exhaust tailpipes which are encircled by a diffuser insert and a fixed rear wing, instead of fold able type with the more modest TT.

In the black interior, you will find your self surrounded by a leather multifunction sports steering wheel, Alcantara/leather combination with silver contrasting stitching and embossed TT RS logos in the front backrests, more badges and logos on the steering wheel, in the rev counter, and on the door sill trims, brushed aluminium inlays, floor mats with silver piping trim, as well as footrests and pedals in aluminum look.

Other features on the inside include a driver information system that displays boost pressure and oil temperature as well as lap timing, heated seats, an automatic climate-control system, a concert sound system and an electrohydraulic soft top and an electric wind deflector for the Cabriolet.

Other fitments that are standard with TT RS include an electronically controlled, hydraulic multi-plate clutch (If a situation calls for it, the clutch redirects a majority of the torque input from the front wheels to the rear wheels), tightly tuned springs and shock absorbers as well as high performance brakes (370 millimeters ventilated discs with a four piston brake caliper up front and 310 millimeters ventilated discs with a four-piston brake caliper at the back).

Potential buyers can also opt for Audi’s magnetic ride adaptive damping system that allows the driver to select one of two modes including Dynamic and Comfort for the shock absorbers by simply pushing the Sport button. The Sport button can also activate a flap installed in the left exhaust tailpipe that produces exhaust noise that is even more robust and intense while boosting engine responsiveness. An optional sport exhaust system is available with matt black tailpipe trims and sound flap. The same Sport mode button is also used to fully or partially deactivate the Electronic Stabilization Program (ESP).

Available in eight body colour options including colours with pearl effects such as Mugello Blue, Sepang Blue, and Suzuka Gray, potential owners can expect deliveries by summer. Continue reading to view an image gallery and a video of both bodytypes.
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Geneva 2009: The Alfa Romeo MiTo GTA Concept finally revealed

March 5, 2009 at 12:45 pm By Harvinder Sidhu Filed Under 2009 Geneva Motor Show, Alfa Romeo, Cars, Concept Cars

Italian auto maker Alfa Romeo has finally unveiled the MiTo GTA Concept at the Geneva Motor Show. On the outside, the aggressive-looking super mini is treated to large air intakes with mesh inserts, a front lower lip spoiler, a centrally mounted exhaust tail pipe, and a huge rear diffuser among others.

The MiTo GTA Concept receives power from a 240HP 1.8 litre cracking power plant which comes with direct injection and a dual variable valve timing system. Alfa Romeo has used carbon fiber in a number of places such as the roof, tailgate spoiler and mirror fairings to help improve power to weight ratio. The similar treatment, but with aluminium was utilized in the suspension and braking components, as well as in certain parts of the chassis.

Unfortunately, Alfa Romeo has yet to release more information regarding the MiTo GTA Concept, other than what we already know. Please click here to read our previous report on the Alfa Romeo MiTo GTA Concept as well as to view an gallery.

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Geneva 2009: Kia stages the No 3 Concept MPV

March 5, 2009 at 11:45 am By Harvinder Sidhu Filed Under 2009 Geneva Motor Show, Cars, Concept Cars, Hybrids and Alternative Fuel, Kia, Koreans

Korean-based auto maker Kia, which is lately releasing some pretty jaw-dropping designs thanks to the guidance of former Audi designer Peter Schreyer has unveiled its latest creation, the Kia No 3 Concept. This compact MPV concept which comfortably seats 5 is finished in Titanium Grey with contrasting gloss-white accents and measures 4045 mm long, 1760 mm wide and 1600 mm high, with a wheelbase that is 2615 mm long.

Key exterior features include 19-inch black/glossy chrome light alloy wheels wrapped with all-weather high-speed tires, a new grille design that is also evident on the equally handsome Kia Cerato Forte and extra-large panorama glass roof that extends directly out of the windscreen and stretches all the way to the rear spoiler.

On the inside, you will notice combination of brown, white and black on the seats and on the door panels, while the dashboard looks almost production ready with a centrally-mounted LCD screen. Unfortunately, Kia did not reveal any information regarding its engine and transmission options.

The auto maker has also made full use of the motor show by showcasing a total of 20 Kia’s including the Kia Soul, the upgraded 2009 Kia Sportage compact SUV, and the 2009 Kia Magentis sedan, fondly known as the Optima in Malaysia. Kia is also displaying the cee’d with ISG (Idle Stop & Go) technology that can improve fuel efficiency by 15%. Kia cee’d ISG cars are available with a choice of 1.4 litre and 1.6 litre petrol engines in each of the three cee’d family body styles including the five-door hatchback, five-door sporty wagon and three-door pro_cee’d.

There is also a Kia cee’d Hybrid prototype that uses an upgraded powertrain with Kia’s Gamma 1.6-litre gasoline engine, mated to a 15 kW, 105 Nm AC synchronized electric motor, a CVT transmission and an ISG system. The hybrid can accelerate to 100 km/h in 11.8 seconds and can reach a top speed of 185 km/h. The prototype is estimated to achieve a fuel consumption figure of 4.81 litres per 100 kilometers and an emissions output figure of 109 grams per kilometer. Continue reading to view an image gallery of the No 3 Concept.
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Geneva 2009: Bentley launches the Continental Supersports

March 5, 2009 at 11:08 am By Harvinder Sidhu Filed Under 2009 Geneva Motor Show, Bentley, Cars

British-based Bentley has launched the Continental Supersports at the motor show in Geneva, which is its fastest and most powerful vehicle yet, and to add more spice, the Supersports’ W12 power plant is able to consume petrol as well as biofuel or ethanol (E85).

Mated to a 6 speed automatic transmission with Quickshift that cuts shift times by as much as 50% and enables double downshifts, the engine is fitted with sensors that monitor the petrol/biofuel mixture ratio, which then supplies data to the ECU to ensure that peak performance is always maintained, which is rated at 621HP and a remarkable 800Nm of torque. Please click here to learn more about the Bentley Continental Supersports and to view an image gallery.

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Geneva 2009: Hyundai reveals the i20 3-door

March 5, 2009 at 10:48 am By Harvinder Sidhu Filed Under 2009 Geneva Motor Show, Cars, Hyundai, Koreans

Korean based auto maker Hyundai has revealed the much awaited i20 3-door super mini in Geneva. This 3 door super mini is offered with a choice of seven fuel efficient, Euro 4-compliant power plants in petrol and diesel forms including a 78HP 1.2 litre “Kappa” petrol engine that uses 5.2 litres of fuel per 100 kilometers on a combines cycle while releasing 124 grams of emissions per kilometer and a 75HP 1.4 litre diesel which consumes 4.4 litres per 100 kilometers, while producing 116 grams of emissions per kilometer.

Sharing its styling with its 5-door big brother, it comes available in three trim levels including Classic, Comfort and Style. Just like the 5-door variant, the i20 3-door comes with features such as climate control, multi-function steering wheel, keyless entry and electrically-operated windows and side mirrors.

The modern radio/CD system is MP3-compatible and has four powerful speakers. Standard safety fitments are made up by a total of 6 airbags, active head-restraints, latest-generation anti-lock brakes, Electronic Stability Control, and Electronic Brake Force Distribution. Continue reading to view two high-res images. We will update the image gallery as soon as we get more images.
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