The Alfa Romeo MiTo GTA Concept, a high performance concept of the new Alfa Romeo MiTo. Designed using the experience gained with the Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione and 8C Spider, the Alfa Romeo MiTo GTA Concept shares with the exclusive "supercar" the philosophy based on achieving the greatest driving pleasure, resulting from exceptional agility produced by a power-to-weight ratio worthy of a racing car.
In line with the famous GTA (Gran Turismo Alleggerito) signature, (Alleggerito means reduced weight in Italian), the Alfa Romeo MiTo GTA Concept prioritises weight reduction, and the achievement of an optimum power-to-weight ratio.
Considerable work has gone into lowering the vehicle's centre of gravity; thus certain components such as the tailgate spoiler, roof and mirror fairings are in carbon-fibre; while aluminium is used extensively in the braking system, suspension, and some parts of the chassis.
Under the bonnet, an exciting new petrol engine, very much in keeping with the pre-requisites of downsizing, environmental awareness, and the offer of high power and efficiency in return for low weight and optimised packaging, powers the Alfa Romeo MiTo GTA Concept.
Designed by Fiat Powertrain Technologies and exploiting the vast experience gained in the production of Twin Spark and Alfa V6 road and race engines, the compact new petrol engine employs advanced technical solutions including direct injection, dual variable valve timing, state-of-the-art turbocharging and advanced electronic management systems to produce a remarkable 240bhp from just 1742cc.
Under-floor aerodynamics have been a particular concern, while the entire car has been lowered by some 20mm. Front suspension employs new geometry with aluminium leading arms, while the rear suspension has all-new bushings, and the comprehensively revised chassis boasts an 'active' suspension system, (advanced damper control), which counteracts the transfer of load under acceleration, stiffening the rear end and maximising traction. The Alfa Romeo MiTo GTA Concept's suspension also interacts with the braking system and steering to obtain the most efficient control of vehicle dynamics, while a 'Sky-Hook' function ensures an excellent level of passenger comfort under conditions of everyday use.
The Buick Business Concept, a new concept vehicle designed to showcase Buick's future vision of "business class on the road".
The multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) was developed in China by the Pan Asia Technical Automotive Center (PATAC), a design and engineering joint venture between General Motors and Shanghai Automotive Industry Corporation (SAIC), with global design input.
The Buick Business Concept Vehicle captures the essence of the Buick form language in a thoroughly elegant and expressive design, with its taut surfaces, double sweep spear belt line, strong front and rear identities and dynamic presence.
"The Buick Business Concept Vehicle has a grand presence and makes a strong statement when it pulls up to the front of any establishment," said Ed Welburn, GM Vice President of Global Design. "
Classic Influences in Modern Design
According to Cao Min, PATAC Concept Car Chief Designer, the design team set out to create a modern global design for Buick, yet include a subtle Chinese essence and influence. To achieve this balance, they sought to draw from their heritage outside the automotive industry - from classic shapes to arts and ancient relics.
The Buick Business Concept Vehicle's dynamic exterior surfaces and "yin and yang" interior tones are drawn from diverse inspirations including the 2008 Buick Riviera concept car, Chinese artifacts and modern electronic icons. The vehicle, inside and out, communicates an orderly elegance that transcends cultural boundaries and conveys the tranquility and power of Buick.
The Exterior Design - A Sense of Presence and Buick Essence
To establish their design direction, PATAC designers took the global Buick design vocabulary of sculpturally beautiful and dynamic forms established by the Riviera concept car and successfully extended it to a tall, one-box architecture.
The Buick Business Concept Vehicle develops the Buick form language further and incorporates elements of Chinese culture and artistic influences into the details. It takes the Buick design treatment to a new level of sophisticated boldness.
The famous Buick waterfall grille takes on a bolder treatment. Intricate detailing gives it an even more prominent look. The backlit Buick tri-shield logo leads into the distinctive mid-hood crease prevalent in classic Buicks and consistent across the new Buick line today.
The prominent LED headlamps show influences of popular Chinese liuli glass through three-dimensional transparent and multifaceted surfaces. Liuli is a Chinese crystal sculpture art form that incorporates cultural and modern references. It has become a popular symbol of modern Chinese prosperity.
The elongated, jewel-like headlamps are connected to the body shoulder line through a strong chrome accent that flows the length of the vehicle from the hood to the body sides, accentuating a strong double sweep spear design until it finally comes to rest wrapped around the taillights. This is the most distinctive design element of the Buick Business Concept Vehicle, as it offers a modern approach to the classic Buick double sweep spear. Familiar Buick portholes are gracefully integrated into the chrome strip extending from the headlamps.
This distinctive double sweep spear shape not only provides expressive dynamism to the vehicle profile, it is also functionally important. It defines the window line from the body sides and incorporates the rail guides for the power sliding doors. Additionally, it lowers the rear passenger sightline and adds significant shoulder room to the rear compartment.
"This vehicle was inspired by the grace and gesture of great Buicks. PATAC designers have cleverly incorporated other design cues from traditional Chinese art, such as applying a huiwen motif on the turn signals and fog lamps," Cao Min said.
The Zitan Purple exterior color was chosen to elicit the right level of attention and respect. The color is found in rare zitan wood used for sculptures and fine Chinese furniture. This deep burnt-purple color perfectly highlights the concept's grandeur.
The Power sliding doors with no B-pillar were selected for their ability to showcase an expansive view of the interior and ease of entrance and egress.
The Buick Business Concept Vehicle sits on 20-inch, 9-spoke forged aluminum wheels, with a polished mirror finish, and low-profile tires. The outside mirrors incorporate turn signals with the huiwen motif.
The Interior Design - Functionality and Soothing Serenity
Serenity and advanced functionality come to mind when entering the vehicle. The use of deep burgundy suede and subtle creams, representing earth and wood themes, are conveyed through high-quality leather bucket seats, plush vehicle carpet and a luxurious padded steering wheel. Completing the tranquil feel is a roof comprised of two full-length sunroofs that offer a celestial connection for occupants.
"Through deep burgundy suede carpet, high-quality leather interior decoration with liuli and soft, ice blue ambient lighting, we wanted to create a mobile VIP lounge for passengers," Cao Min said.
The Interior trim and features befitting Buick prestige abound such as a power central console with a deployable tablet for writing or to hold a laptop computer. The console can be moved up and down the two rows of rear seats. The second row of power captain's chairs slide on hidden rails and swivel 225 degrees, enabling them to be adjusted to an infinite combination of orientations. Traditional huiwen patterns are embroidered onto the seats and seat backs, bringing harmony to the entire design theme.
The three-dimensional instrument cluster reaches across the entire width of the front panel and features a multi-layer information display. The instrument cluster design reflects the liuli art influence but is utterly modern in design. It is complemented by a central console with touch pad controls on either side of a cylinder-shaped roller mouse. A large LED display crowns the central console. Once again, the huiwen motif shows up as details on the wings of the instrument panel.
The OnStar security telematics feature is easily accessible on the rearview mirror, with three prominently yet tastefully displayed call buttons.
"The design of the vehicle inherits Buick's vision for business class on the road, creating a sense that space means possibility," Cao Min said.
The Next-Generation GM Hybrid System
PATAC designed the Buick Business Concept Vehicle to accommodate the next-generation GM Hybrid System, which will be introduced in China in the near future.
The next-generation GM Hybrid System will build upon the successful belt-alternator-starter hybrid technology currently available in the Buick LaCrosse Eco-Hybrid. An advanced lithium-ion battery will help make the next-generation GM Hybrid System more powerful than the current system, improving fuel economy of vehicles with this system by up to 20 percent, depending on engine and vehicle application.
The next-generation GM Hybrid System helps optimize fuel efficiency and reduce emissions by:
* Turning the engine off at idle
* Offering brief electric-only propulsion
* Using a more powerful electric motor to enhance engine efficiency
* Extending fuel cutoff during deceleration
* Extending regenerative braking to recapture more energy
* Performing intelligent hybrid battery charging
The Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport combines the Corvette's LS3-based powertrain with unique, wide-body styling and a racing-bred suspension for a distinctive model that delivers a great balance of road and race track performance. It is offered in both coupe and convertible body styles, with either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission. The LS3 6.2L engine is rated at 430 horsepower (321 kW) and 424 lb.-ft. of torque (575 Nm) with the standard exhaust system. An optional two-mode exhaust system elevates the power ratings to 436 horses (325 kW) and 428 lb.-ft. (580 Nm).
The Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport replaces the Corvette's previous Z51 package and brings a greater degree of handling performance, with wider wheels and tires; revised shock, stabilizer bar and spring specifications; and specific gearing. The equipment enables cornering capability of 1.0 g, as well as a 0.2-second improvement in 0-60 acceleration vs. standard LS3-powered models.
Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport coupe models equipped with the manual transmission are uniquely outfitted for race track competition, too, with a dry-sump oiling system, differential cooler and a rear-mounted battery.
The complete list of content and special features for the Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport includes:
* Wider front and rear fenders - including specific front fenders with integrated Grand Sport badges
* Z06-style front splitter and tall rear spoiler
* Functional brake ducts and extra cooling
* Unique 18-inch front and 19-inch rear wheels; painted finish standard and chrome finish optional
* Large 275/35ZR18 tires in front and 325/30ZR19 tires in the rear
* Z06-size brakes, including 14-inch (355 mm) front rotors with six-piston calipers and 13.4-inch (340 mm) rear rotors with four-piston calipers
* Specific manual transmission gear ratios
* Specific rear axle ratio on automatic-equipped models
* With its special equipment, the Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport offers a unique blend of performance and amenities.
Its suspension package approaches that of the Chevrolet Corvette Z06, but includes a removable roof on coupes (Z06 has a fixed roof) and, of course, the availability of a convertible body style. Also, the paddle-shift six-speed automatic transmission is offered, while a manual transmission is the only choice with the Z06.
The Grand Sport history
The original Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport was a promising idea that led to the production of five special prototypes in 1963. The project was later shelved, following GM's agreement to stay out of manufacturer-backed motorsports.
The five prototypes were based on the styling of the 1963 Corvette and were hand-assembled under Duntov's watchful eye. But while they looked like production models, the prototypes were purpose-built race cars that shared little with their assembly-line cousins. Duntov also oversaw the Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport engine program that featured a special, 377-cubic-inch small-block V-8 with side-draft carburetors.
The Karma S is an extension of the Fisker Automotive product range of eco-conscious automobiles and sets the tone for our future.
The four-seat, plug-in hybrid hardtop convertible furthers the company's belief that driving style and performance need not be compromised for environmental friendliness.
The open-air Fisker Karma S concept shares its aluminum spaceframe architecture and clean Q-DRIVE® powertrain with the Fisker Karma sedan.
Designed and engineered by Quantum Technologies exclusively for Fisker Automotive, Q-DRIVE® provides 50 emission-free miles on a single charge to its lithium-ion battery pack, and up to 403hp from two electric motors.
The power retractable hard top, a first for Fisker, glides neatly into the trunk and a unique design language sets the Fisker Karma S concept apart.
The Ford's Special Vehicle Team used the gains made on the 40th anniversary edition Shelby GT500KR "King of the Road" Mustangs as the performance starting point and built from there. The design team, with a nod to the original Shelby Cobras from the 1960s, takes those design cues even further with nuanced improvements in both the coupe and convertible, each of which boasts a more-refined interior.
More horsepower, more refinement, more functionality
The combination of added horsepower, refinement and functionality makes the Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 a unique high-performance car. The Shelby GT500 delivers more horsepower and more torque than the outgoing model, thanks in part to advancements pioneered on the GT500KR.
The Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 is powered by a supercharged and intercooled 5.4-liter dual overhead cam V-8 engine expected to produce 540 horsepower and 510 foot-pounds of torque. The redline is 6,250 rpm. The car's aluminum power dome hood not only adds to the Shelby's appearance, it helps cool the engine through a hood extractor.
The Shelby's open-element air induction system features a conical air filter instead of a flat-panel closed system to reduce air restriction. This approach allows more air to be pumped through the engine, producing more power and increasing the engine's efficiency.
A cold-air intake feeds the coolest air possible directly into the air box, helping further increase horsepower.
The intake necessitated moving the Cobra snake badge to the other side of the grille to enable maximum airflow.
The twin-disc clutch on the six-speed manual transmission has been significantly upgraded, improving drivability and NVH. The discs on the Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 are larger - 250 mm in diameter compared with 215 mm in diameter on the outgoing model - and made of copper and fiberglass to make them more robust.
A unique component of the twin-disc system is the control of the intermediate disc. Rather than floating, it instead has six straps that control the engagement of the clutch, improving drivability.
The Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 improved straight-line acceleration, plus fuel savings when cruising on the highway in the top gears. Gears 1-4 remain the same, but fifth gear changes from .80 to .74 while sixth gear goes from .63 to .50, meaning that the Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 will turn lower engine RPMs in those gears and deliver improved fuel efficiency. The new final drive ratio, from 3.31 to 3.55, enables the improved acceleration in lower gears while complementing the revised fifth and sixth gear ratios.
The Shelby's distinct sounds will be apparent as always, though with new refinements, thanks to the work of the Noise, Vibration and Harshness (NVH) team. A patented resonator placed between the air filter and engine throttle body helps keep unwanted noise in check.
Driving dynamics also are improved, thanks to SVT's signature chassis tuning as well as new 19-inch Goodyear F1 Supercar tires and forged aluminum wheels on the Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 coupe and 18s on the convertible.
Spring and dampers have been optimized for better roll control, giving customers more confidence when braking, accelerating or turning. The new chassis tuning takes its philosophy from the KR program, with a greater emphasis placed on primary body control.
The team also stiffened the steering shaft.
The Goodyear F1 Supercar 19-inch tires have been upgraded, too. SVT members developed a "recipe" for the attributes and characteristics they wanted in the tire, which Goodyear's team of engineers, designers and manufacturers brought to life. The result is better grip, better handling and better NVH properties, leading to a better customer experience.
The wheels themselves complement the high-performance nature of the Shelby GT500. The 19-inch wheels are forged aluminum wheels milled on both sides. The extra machining process creates "blade" spokes with very thin, yet strong, cross-sections. The spokes have a specific curve from the rim to the hub, not only for strength, but also to accentuate the offset and width of the tires.
The Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 features AdvanceTrac, Ford's stability control system with several options for performance. The default "on" mode accommodates every-day driving, and a Sport mode delivers for those wanting to put the Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 through its paces on the track. The system also can be turned completely off, although the anti-lock brake system and other active safety systems remain in place. Standard safety equipment includes: dual stage front air bags, side-impact air bags and Ford's Personal Safety System.
Directing the air so it's used most efficiently was a painstaking process that ultimately will be rewarding to customers. The design of the front fascia and the car's "flush" hood helps focus air flow. The top grille focuses air into the radiator, with a rubber flap inside the engine compartment helping to seal the system. The lower grille helps cool the intercooler. SVT engineers also went as far to block off specific diamonds in the front of the Shelby GT500's distinctive grille to help maintain the correct cooling and aerodynamic balance.
What's inside counts with the Ford Mustang Shelby GT500
The base Mustang received a powerful new interior design. For the GT500, the interior design team members challenged themselves to raise the bar even higher to create the ultimate Shelby Mustang interior.
The genuine aluminum finish panels have a unique-to-GT500 three-dimensional dimpled texture pattern inspired by racing clutch plates, braided hoses and cross-drilled racing brake rotors. The pattern has been painstakingly tuned to compensate for the compound curvature of the instrument panels. In addition, the "GT500" logo has been discretely engraved into the aluminum in front of the passenger as a nod to classic Shelby Mustangs of the 1960s.
The unique aluminum finish panel is fully encapsulated by an exquisite soft seamless TPO (Thermoplastic Olefin) instrument panel with a shape that resonates with Mustang's powerful heritage. The center stack flows into the console and features a sub-flush shifter trim ring, flush cup holder door and lockable console stowage featuring the word "SHELBY" engraved in its Satin Liquid Chrome release button.
The Mustangs and Shelbys feature bright 360-degree rings surrounding the gauge cluster, uninterrupted by the steering column. These rings will come in chrome for the Mustang and a Satin Liquid Chrome finish for the GT500. This finish is featured throughout the interior. An intricate cobra is etched into the center of the aluminum steering wheel badge. The Shelby Cobra appears at startup on the navigation screen, and the familiar red "SVT" logo utilizes new ambient lighting to illuminate the door scuffplate.
Even the classic white shift knob - an icon of Shelby Mustang DNA from years past - received special attention. First, it had to be the traditional white. It also had to be specific to the Shelby. The answer was to combine the racing-stripes theme with the traditional "H" pattern found on shifters to create a one-of-a-kind knob. Like the exterior, the racing stripes wrap from end to end, encircling the knob.
Wide suite of standard features on the Ford Mustang Shelby GT500
The Shelby GT500 includes several Ford innovations and industry-exclusive standard features, including:
SYNC: The voice-activated hands-free in-car communication and entertainment system developed by Ford and Microsoft. The system fully integrates most Bluetooth-enabled mobile phones and digital media players, providing customers hands-free cell phone and music selection capabilities - plus new 911 Assist and Vehicle Health Report provided with no monthly fees.
911 Assist: When a phone is properly paired, turned on and connected to SYNC, the system is ready to assist in placing a call directly to a local 911 emergency operator in the event of an air bag-deploying accident. The key advantage of SYNC 911 Assist is speed, as calls are placed directly to local 911 operators.
Vehicle Health Report (VHR): SYNC gathers relevant information from the major vehicle control modules and packages diagnostic data into a usable format in a matter of minutes. That data packet is sent to Ford via an 800-number automatically dialed using the customer's paired and operable mobile phone.
With the new Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 Spyder, Lamborghini has created a driving experience like absolutely no other - fascinating design, breathtaking performance and extreme handling characteristics come together with all the sensual intensity and open-air pleasure that only a soft top super sports car can deliver.
An even more powerful engine, permanent all-wheel drive and an all-new chassis mean that the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 Spyder offers yet another significant increase in performance against its predecessor. With its innovative design, the new Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 Spyder takes the unique Lamborghini styling ethic to the next level; the Spyder displays this powerful and elegant design language with even greater distinctiveness, making it all the more unmistakable.
The Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 Spyder takes only 4.0 seconds to sprint from 0 to 62 mph (0 to 100 km/h), reaching 124 mph (0 to 200 km/h) in only 13.1 seconds and going on to a top speed of 201 mph (324 km/h). The new driveline, featuring the "Iniezione Diretta Stratificata" direct fuel injection system also makes for impressive efficiency. Despite the considerable increase in performance, fuel consumption and CO2 emissions have been reduced by a staggering 18 percent.
Engineers at the Ufficio Tecnico Lamborghini, Sant'Agata-based Technical Department, have also improved traction, handling and stability at high speeds. The redesigned four-wheel drive transmission, the new suspension, the improved stiffness of the Spyder bodyshell and the optimized aerodynamics all contribute to the overall improvements in the vehicle, as do the reduced weight and decreased friction throughout the components.
The Rear windscreen functions as wind deflector
When the soft top opens, the rear windscreen disengages first, sliding downwards to avoid obstructing the remainder of the process. Four cylinders slightly raise the rear-hinged engine cover, before the hood folds gracefully into a stowage compartment located in front of the engine bay. Finally, the large engine cover made from a lightweight carbon fiber composite closes once more and the rear windscreen returns to its original position to function as a wind deflector. A switch mounted on the dashboard will stow the rear windscreen if preferred - even when the top is closed.
Whether open or closed, the Gallardo Spyder's soft top is designed for unrestricted high speeds. In order to ensure maximum safety, Lamborghini engineers have integrated two spring-loaded rollover bars behind the seats. Controlled by a sensor, they deploy in only 250 milliseconds should a potential roll-over situation arise. The seat belt tensioners spring into action at the same time.
The intelligent lightweight design
Weight is undesirable in a sports car and lightweight design is good for dynamics. Aluminum is much lighter than steel - which is why the bodyshell of the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 Spyder has an aluminum structure that is more lightweight, yet stiffer. With its lighter engine, the two-seater boasts a dry weight of only 3417.2 Ibs (1,550 kg) - 44 pounds (20 kg) less than its predecessor.
The design of the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 Spyder utilizes the 'spaceframe construction method.' Cast aluminum nodes and extruded profiles form its frame, with integrated friction-locked and form-fitted aluminum panels creating the bodyshell.
Integrated pedestrian protection system
The bodyshell also incorporates the highest levels of passive safety. The Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 Spyder even fulfils European directives for pedestrian protection that are not yet mandatory. Furthermore, the geometry of the entire front end of the car has been optimized, with a special combination of materials behind the front bumper that serve to absorb impact forces.
The luxurious individuality
Despite its low exterior height, the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 Spyder welcomes its passengers with a spacious interior - even when the top is closed. The sports seats are upholstered in either fine leather or Alcantara® and provide firm hold and support. The seats are mounted low, as is typical for sports cars, and behind them is additional luggage space to complement the 110 liter capacity luggage compartment at the front of the vehicle.
The wide middle console is one of the elements that characterize the impression of sporty dynamism in the interior. It accommodates the standard Lamborghini audio and multimedia system, as well as the dual-zone climate control.
The highest quality workmanship
The Miura and the other models of the 60s were characterized by their excellent quality of workmanship, which was far beyond the general standards of the day. Lamborghini has built extensively on this tradition, and to this day delivers automobiles of the highest standards.
The Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 Spyder indulges with materials of the highest quality in both look and feel. Leather interior choices include a range of colors and stitching in matching or contrasting tones.
The Extreme power in every situation
The engine of the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 Spyder is a completely new development. All that remains is the number of cylinders, - that magical ten - which provides a perfect synthesis of high-revs, pulling power, athletic agility, compact dimensions and low weight that is unique within this performance class.
Perfect weight distribution, optimal dynamics
The engine in this new model is also located longitudinally behind the driver - hence the model denomination "Longitudinale Posteriore." The mid-engine concept is peerless in sports car design, creating the basis for the perfect weight distribution of the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 Spyder of 43 percent on the front axle and 57 percent on the rear. In combination with the permanent all-wheel drive transmission, it guarantees the Gallardo's superior handling stability in all situations.
Low mass for impressive high-revving
The cylinder bore surfaces of the new Lamborghini ten-cylinder are made of a hypereutectic aluminum alloy. The hard silicon crystals of the bore surfaces are chemically released following the honing process. The connecting rods are made from forged steel and the pistons from aluminum alloy. The systematic reduction of mass and internal friction contributes to the engine's impressive high-revving characteristics.
The engine is unusually wide for a V10, with a cylinder angle of 90 degrees. The advantage of this layout is the lower center of gravity. The dry sump lubrication serves the same purpose, as well as guaranteeing a reliable supply of oil even during extreme lateral acceleration on the race track.
Direct fuel injection makes for efficient combustion
The new V10 uses the direct fuel-injection system "Iniezione Diretta Stratificata" as an innovative way to optimize performance in all conditions, while achieving moderate fuel consumption. The fuel is injected directly into the combustion chamber from a common-rail system at pressures of up to 100 bar via laterally-position injectors. This ensures the perfect "tumble" of the homogeneous fuel/air mixture and forms the basis of highly efficient combustion.
Direct injection boosts the extremely efficient full-load performance of the V10, reduces its knock sensitivity, provides an internal cooling effect and thus facilitates a very high compression ratio of 12.5:1. The cylinder heads have been optimized to deliver a rapid charge cycle, while the variable valve control system on all four camshafts improves charge efficiency across the entire engine speed range.
All-wheel drive refinement
Such extreme power must be delivered to the road safely. The driver of a Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 Spyder can thus rely on the viscous traction permanent all-wheel drive system - the number 4 in the model name serves as a reminder of this. Lamborghini introduced this system as early as 1993, with the Diablo VT - and for good reason. Four driven wheels achieve more grip than two and permit earlier acceleration when exiting a curve.
Located in the driveline is a central viscous coupling, which requires no electronic control. In this Lamborghini-specific configuration, driving power is distributed between front and rear at a standard ratio of 30:70, adapting to variations in road conditions within a matter of milliseconds. A mechanical differential on the rear axle providing up to 45% limited slip, and an electronic differential lock at the front complete the all-wheel drive system.
The superior traction and handling
It is not only maximum traction that benefits from permanent all-wheel drive, but also the car's clearly superior handling. Ultimately, each wheel can only transfer a certain amount of power to the road. As the drive power is distributed to all four wheels via the viscous traction system, there is thus greater potential for directional control. These reserves in every situation are what distinguish a perfectly made sports car.
With all of that engine thrust, changing gears in the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 is also one of the most exciting aspects of this vehicle. It remains a matter of personal preference whether the driver uses the short gear stick to work manually through the precision motion of the six-speed gearbox, or whether he chooses to let his fingertips control the e.gear's paddle-shift system located behind the steering wheel - the option preferred by the majority of Lamborghini customers.
Shift times reduced by 40 percent
The automated e.gear transmission has been completely redesigned and improved in all aspects. The complete system is not only considerably lighter, but the time required to change gear in corsa mode has also been reduced by 40 per cent. The driver can change gear manually using the shift paddles mounted on the steering wheel - or he can leave it entirely up to the automatic mode, which ensures extremely refined dynamics.
If the driver changes gear manually using the steering wheel paddles, he can choose from three different drive programs. Alongside the standard program, the Gallardo also offers the sport mode with even shorter shift times, while the corsa program delivers optimum engine acceleration.
ESP is active in all drive programs, engaging later in the sport and corsa modes and reducing the impact of the traction control. The corsa mode also permits greater drift and enables the complete dynamic spectrum of the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 Spyder to be appreciated on the race track - while still leaving plenty of room for safety. The Lamborghini thrust mode facilitates maximum acceleration from a standstill. The throttle valve angle and clutch travel have been optimized specifically for this purpose.
Hi-tech components with Lamborghini expertise
The predecessor to the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 Spyder was already one of the world's best super sports cars in terms of handling, precision and driving stability. However, the latest model delivers an even more intense driving experience across the board. The new chassis improves the car's handling, its driving comfort and its directional stability at high speeds.
Intense road holding
The rack and pinion steering works with relatively little power assistance - giving the driver a direct and close connection with the road, and providing intense experience of the power and forces at play. The steering has its own cooling system for the power steering fluid.
Precise, breathtakingly fast, yet stable and free from surprises - the Gallardo's dynamics deliver a sensuous experience. At the limit, the tires (235/35 ZR 19 front and 295/30 ZR 19 rear) appear to bond with the road surface. The wheels are clad in Pirelli P-Zero series tires, specially developed for Lamborghini. They boast particularly low rolling resistance and thus contribute to reduced fuel consumption without any compromise in performance. At speeds of more than 75 mph (over 120 km/h), an automatically-deploying rear spoiler increases the down force on the rear axle.
Optional carbon fiber ceramic brake system
The new brake system comes with brutal stopping power. At the front, eight-cylinder Brembo calipers grip 14.37 in (365 mm) diameter discs, while four-cylinder calipers and 14 in (356 mm) discs take up the rear. The new disc ventilation also improves brake fade under extreme load conditions.
Highly stable carbon fiber ceramic discs are available as an option. At the front the CCB (Carbon Ceramic Brake) discs measure 15 in (380 mm) diameter and at the rear 14 in (356 mm).
Top-class individuality
Lamborghini has equipped the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 Spyder with an exceptionally sporty standard equipment package that includes the automatic top; driver, passenger and side air-bags; dual-zone climate control with sun regulator; stereo system with USB interface; sports seats with electrically adjustable back rests; leather upholstery and bi-xenon headlamps with LED daytime running lights.
A range of optional extras brings additional comfort and convenience - including a navigation system, a hands-free Bluetooth® mobile phone connection, anti-theft device and a rear view camera.
The unique Mercedes-Benz F-Cell Roadster project bridging various fields of profession, the trainees of Daimler AG at the Sindelfingen Mercedes-Benz plant have built a Roadster with fuel cell drive. For about a year, more than 150 trainees and dual education system students worked on the overall concept, development, assembly, and completion of the Mercedes-Benz F-Cell Roadster Concept. This project involved junior employees from the fields of automotive mechatronics, model-building, electronics, coating technology, manufacturing mechanics, product design, and interior appointments. The prime objective of the project was to integrate the topic of alternative drive systems into training with hands-on experience.
Tradition meets the future
The Mercedes-Benz F-Cell Roadster Concept uniquely combines state-of-the-art technologies with the history of vehicle construction. As an allusion to the Benz Patent Motor Car from 1886, the vehicle is fitted with large spoked wheels. Moreover, the Mercedes-Benz F-Cell Roadster incorporates stylistic elements from diverse eras of automotive history, such as the carbon-fiber bucket seats with hand-stitched leather covers and the distinctively styled fiberglass front section, based on the component from the Formula One racing bolides.
The Mercedes-Benz F-Cell Roadster Concept is controlled with drive-by-wire technology, and a joystick takes the place of a conventional steering wheel. The vehicle is powered by the emission-free fuel cell system located at the rear. With a power rating of 1.2 kW the Mercedes-Benz F-Cell Roadster reaches a top speed of 25 km/h and has an operating range of up to 350 km.
