MG Zero concept

The Zero was one of the surprises of the Beijing show, and represents the best example of the new 'Facet Flow' MG form language that the design teams in Shanghai and UK have been developing. In terms of exterior surfaces, this car appears close to production and SAIC expects the Zero to compete with the Ford Fiesta and Fiat's Grande Punto to attract entry-level younger customers. Program Manager Sam Sun explained the thinking behind the design: "There's a misunderstanding by many younger Chinese buyers about what a sporty car should be – there's real confusion with aftermarket customizing, which is not our aim."

The sporty feeling is taken further than the MG6, with a greater emphasis on the dominant lower grille, use of a lozenge pattern throughout, including grille, door handles, DI lamps and texture in the lower grille, and a roof featuring a see-through abstracted union flag motif. The Zero uses an all-new platform from SAIC, called EP, which crucially allows for fitment of larger wheels than is the norm in China, to ensure a more European stance to the car.

The best part of the Zero is undoubtedly the interior, which demonstrates a higher level of sophistication and new ideas compared to most concepts seen here today. A slim horizontal console connects to the driver's seat in a quasi-octagon motif, and a lower center console runs through into the rear seat. The lozenge theme is continued in the seats, which feature red MG logos that illuminate through the fabric. Further red highlights are created using LEDS in the door lining, steering wheel rim, plus ambient lighting used in the footwells. "We've decided to offer this high contrast black and white theme on one trim level for production too" explains Sam Sun. Overall, the interior reminds in some ways of a sportier version of the VW Up! but that's not to detract from the freshness of the design quality. SAIC expects production to start later this year, with sales in Europe targeted in their plans.

Ford Start concept

Ford's Start concept was one of the undeniable stars of Auto China this year. A diminutive five-seat premium car, roughly the size of a Mini, the concept surprised many with its minimalistic design and thoughtful details. Speaking with Freeman Thomas, Design Director at Ford's California-based Strategic Concept Group, CDN learned that the car was born out of an unconventional approach: it was actually modeled before being reversed into sketches.

The clean, timeless design was inspired by the nautilus shell as well as the rounded designs of the Alfa Romeo Zagato SZ and the Porsche 356 Speedster (owned by Thomas himself): "We wanted the car to be soft and endearing," Thomas said. "We love round shapes."

The resulting design is appealing, with a simple yet elegant surface and a friendly demeanor, but it is also a pragmatic and functional vehicle. Simple trim pieces, smooth door handles and a new interpretation of the front grille are joined by slender head- and taillamps with a lattice theme running through them, an element repeated in the C-pillar. Another key element in the brief was that the car had to be lightweight; this is where the idea for the small trunk – instead of the expected hatch – and the 'floating' B-pillar came from. "We needed the structure but we wanted it to float to make it visually lighter," shared Thomas

A strong shoulder that blends into the surrounding surface aft of the rear wheel is also an interesting element of the design, fading out like a brush stroke on the bodyside, as is the well-proportioned matte aluminum trim that connects and defines the windscreen, DLO and backlight.

The interior also presents interesting features worth mentioning, such as the IP that sits on top of the dash so it can be easily adapted for left- and right-hand drive applications, and the floating front seats that mimic the curve of those on the 356. The rear seat features an unbroken curvature, enabling rear passengers to sit in a lounge-like space, amplifying comfort levels.

(Beijing Motor Show 2010 - Highlights)

Jaguar C-X75 concept

The C-X75 is both celebration of Jaguar's 75-year history and design showcase for the company's hybrid turbine technology. It would be easy, with a brief so charged with historical reference (the last British turbine car, the Rover Turbine screamed onto the scene in the '63 while the XJ-13, considered the watershed in terms of Jaguar's design history, appeared in '66) to resort to a lazy retro pastiche. No such luck here.

The powertrain – a pair of turbines spinning at 80,000 rpm – allowed the design team to create a proportionally simple and elegant form full of volume and suppleness. Along with the similarly fully-surfaced Renault DeZir concept, it suggests we're moving away from an era of line-based exterior design and towards an aesthetic built on surface.

The French connection doesn't stop there; the long tail, flat deck lid and thin wrap-around tail lamps are reminiscent of the GTbyCitroen Concept from 2008. Indeed, on first acquaintance the C-X75 doesn't speak overtly of Jaguar, certainly not with the saccharine sweetness of yore, but nor does it eviscerate Jaguar heritage as comprehensively as the XJ. At last, heritage and the future have become happy bedfellows. The only weak element is the DRG, which has a pinched, somewhat derivative sports car look.

The interior is arguably more impressive. A spare material palette of chrome, aluminum, leather and textile combine with layered surfaces and fixed seat design to offer something unique; a delicate balance between luxury and sparseness.

The presence of vanes and air-ducting speaks of an attempt to build a language around the propulsion system. Other highlights include the unique HMI, the individual, blue-lit hexagonal speaker units inside the door and the roof-mounted starter console that reinforce the cocoon-like cockpit feel Jaguar's designers were so keen to create.

For a long time Jaguar has had the potential to deliver a convincing vision for its future, building on its storied history and the wealth of passion for the brand. So often it has flattered to deceive, but the C-X75 finally delivers on the promise and is a candidate for star of the show.

Lamborghini Sesto Elemento Concept

At the 2010 Paris Motor Show Lamborghini has unveiled its much-awaited concept car: the Sesto Elemento. Featuring a full carbon-fiber structure and body, the V10-powered technological demonstrator has a weight of 999 kg and sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in 2.5 seconds.

After six teasers and many rumors, Lamborghini has finally unveiled its new stunning concept car.

Its name is "Sesto Elemento", which is the Italian translation of "Sixth Element", and refers to the position of carbon in the periodic table.

The name underlines the importance role payed by carbon-fiber reinforced plastics (CFRP) technology: in the Sesto Elemento the carbon fiber is used for the front frame, body panels, crash boxes, major suspension components and rims.

The result is an extremely lightweight construction, with an overall curb weight of just 999 kg.

To further emphasize the use of this technology, the exterior is finished in a matt-shimmer clear coat, that lets the CFRP structure and its texture completely visible.

The Sesto Elemento is powered by a 5.2 liter V10 engine that deliver 570 hp - which means a power-to-weight ratio of only 1.75 kg/hp - coupled with a permanent all-wheel drive transmission.

It can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 2.5 seconds ad the top speed is over 300 km/h.

The concept is considered by the Italian carmaker as a technological demonstrator that will inspire and influence all the future model line-up.

Stephan Winkelmann, President and CEO of Automobili Lamborghini, has commented: "Systematic lightweight engineering is crucial for future super sports cars: for the most dynamic performance, as well as for low emissions.

"We will apply this technological advantage right across our model range. Every future Lamborghini will be touched by the spirit of the Sesto Elemento."

Exterior Design

Lamborghini Sesto Elemento Concept TeaserThe design of the Sesto Elemento Concept is an evolution of the brand's language and integrates the carbon-fiber as a visual element.

The body is finished in a matt-shimmer clear coat which includes fine crystals with a red shimmer and lets the that the CFRP structure visible throughout.

In order to optimize the construction, the body-shell exterior consists of just few integrated elements: the roof section, which is part of the monocoque, the two front and rear covers with integrated aerodynamic components and the doors,

The doors are made of only two components, the exterior skin and the interior cladding, permanently bonded together.

The front and rear main panels are manufactured in a single piece, called "cofango", a name created by combining the Italian word "cofano" (hood) with "parafango" (fender).

The large components are attached by using easily removable fasteners.

The "cofango" is also reminiscent of the 1966 Lamborghini Miura, which had a rear cover that could be opened in one single piece.

The surfaces have precisely-defined and sharp edges, created with functionality in mind. The main design theme is provided by the recurring triangular and polygonal elements: from the red openings in the hood to the sharply cut headlamp units, the side mirrors and the door handles.

The entire side profile is cut like a sharp wedge, with the power center of the car just in front of the rear axle. A distinctive sideline starts at the front wheel arch, rises along the door towards the rear and ends at the broad shoulders above the rear wheel.

The wide sills form a connection between the air outlets behind the front wheels and the large air inlets in front of the rear wheels. These house components such as the radiators for cooling the engine and transmission oil.

The rims have a five-spoke design and are made entirely from carbon fiber. They offer a clear view of the high-performance brakes with carbon-ceramic discs.

The Sesto Elemento's rear end features a short overhang, a generously dimensioned spoiler, matched by adiffuser and an additional air deflector in the center.

The tailpipes are made of Pyrosic (an advanced glass-ceramic matrix composite) and are directed upwards through the engine cover panel, which incorporates ten hexagonal openings and two air scoops behind the roof.

The tailpipes are made from Pyrosic, which is an advanced glass-ceramic matrix composite, able to reach and stand very high temperatures up to 900° celsius. Even the propeller shaft is made of CFRP.

Interior Design

Lamborghini Sesto Elemento Concept InteriorLike the exterior, the interior uses a minimalistic approach.

The seats do not have a conventional seat frame, but an internal structure obtained and defined directly from the Forged Composite tub, that on one side plays a functional role and on the other side is the base for the optimally formed seat cushions, upholstered in hi-tech fabric, which are affixed directly to the carbon-fiber monocoque.

The the steering wheel, which can be adjusted for height and reach, and by the pedals, which can be electrically adjusted longitudinally.

The dominant visual element is the CFRP material texture - on the floor and roof of the monocoque, on the doors and also on the cockpit and center console. Even the electronic control unit for the engine is mounted in plain sight.

The design is also characterized by the numerous triangular cut-outs aimed at maximizing the weight reduction.

The controls are presented in a highly concentrated format.

The center console includes only three piezoelectric buttons - one to start the engine, one to shift into reverse gear and another one for the lights.

Lamborghini and the CFRP Technology

Lamborghini Sesto Elemento Concept TeaserLamborghini has mastered the complete CFRP process across a range of technologies, from 3D design through simulation, validation, production and testing – all in a state-of-the-art industrial process that stands for the very highest quality standards.

The company drives the technology development in its two research centers the ACRC (Advanced Composite Research Center) and the ACSL (Advanced Composite Structures Laboratory) through collaborations with organizations such as Boeing, with the resulting technology secured under a host of patents.

(Source: Lamborghini)

Perform Bentley Continental GTC Speed

The new GTC models share a fresh frontal appearance. The radiator grille is more upright with a more pronounced square edge, accentuating the Bentley profile, and bolder lower air intake. The latest models are further distinguished by chrome headlamp bezels, the availability of two new exterior paints and a new colour hide.

The appeal of the GTC is further strengthened by the addition of the new 600bhp (610PS) Bentley Continental GTC Speed model. It is Bentley's most powerful convertible ever and inspired by Bentley's legendary 'Speed Models' from the 1920s.

The GTC's chassis and exceptionally rigid steel body have proved more than capable of coping with the power of the 552bhp (560PS) 6-litre W12 engine. For the new Bentley Continental GTC Speed, twin-turbocharged W12 now develops 600bhp (610PS) that delivers true 200 mph (322 km/h) performance, with the roof up, with exhilarating, effortless acceleration. Even with the roof down the Bentley Continental GTC Speed can reach 195 mph (312 km/h).

The Bentley Continental GTC Speed is visually distinguished by subtle design enhancements which emphasise its higher performance credentials. At the front, the radiator and lower air intake grilles feature a dark tinted matrix as standard. Larger diameter 9.5J x 20-inch, multi-spoke alloy wheels with Bentley-bespoke Pirelli PZero ultra-high performance (UHP) tyres, lowered and uprated suspension, wider twin-rifled exhaust tail pipes and a new boot-mounted lip spoiler that enhances high speed aerodynamics, reinforce the sporting character of the Speed model.

The GTC Speed's 600bhp (610PS) W12 engine develops 9 per cent more power than the standard GTC. However, it is the 15 per cent increase in torque that really distinguishes the Speed model, which now develops an impressive output of 750 Nm (553lb ft). This is achieved across virtually the complete rev range, from just 1700 to 5600 rev/min, delivering that characteristic Bentley wave of torque.
The 0-60 mph sprint is despatched in a mere 4.5 seconds (0-100km/h in 4.8 seconds) and 0-100 mph in 10.6 seconds (0-160 km/h in 10.5 seconds).

The enhanced powertrain delivers more power and torque
Both Continental GTC models are powered by Bentley's 6-litre, twin-turbocharged W12 engine which is produced exclusively at the company's Crewe engine plant. The Bentley W12 is the most compact 12-cylinder engine in production with 48 valves and 4 camshafts with continually variable valve timing. Power is transmitted via a ZF six-speed automatic transmission.

The Bentley Continental GTC Speed is powered by Bentley's W12 engine in its most powerful, 600 bhp (610PS) form. It develops 15 per cent more torque and 9 per cent more power than the 552bhp (560PS) standard Bentley Continental GTC.

The Engine efficiency improvements result from the use of lower friction, lighter-weight components and a new engine management system, while twin, low inertia turbochargers with minimal turbo lag contribute to the W12 engine's flat torque curve. In 600 bhp (610PS) form, the W12 develops a maximum torque of 750 Nm (553 lb ft) from 1700 rev/min all the way up to 5600 rev/min. The GTC Speed engine is visually differentiated by the 'crackle black' finish to the intake manifold.
This endows the Bentley Continental GTC Speed with a top speed of 200mph (322 km/h) with the roof-up and a 0-60mph sprint time of just 4.5 seconds (0-100 km/h in 4.8 secs). It also accelerates from 0-100 mph in just 10.6 seconds (0-160 km/h in 10.5 seconds).
The six-speed transmission can be left in two fully automatic modes (Drive and Sport) or used as a clutchless manual where the driver can change gears sequentially, via either the gearlever or paddles mounted behind the steering wheel.

The advanced continuous all-wheel drive system of both GTC models provides exceptional traction in all weathers. The drive is transferred between the front and rear axles via a highly sensitive centre Torsen differential. If the differential detects a deviation in torque demand between the two axles it automatically sends more power to the wheels with greater grip.

The 'Sport Traction' mode for the GTC moderates ESP intervention at low speeds, benefiting driver interaction and control, particularly on low traction surfaces. The 'Dynamic Mode' of the GTC Speed allows increased wheel slip at higher speeds compared to the standard chassis. This ensures that torque is reinstated more quickly, allowing the driver to exploit the full potential of the engine.

A luxury convertible with outstanding ride and handling
The Continental GTC's steel body has an exceptionally rigid torsional stiffness of around 30Hz that not only minimises 'scuttle shake' but provides a very stable platform for the aluminium-intensive suspension system, optimising its performance. Despite the boost in power and torque for the GTC Speed model, no changes to the body structure were required.
For the 552bhp (560PS) GTC, new low-friction dampers provide improved secondary ride (the response of the car to poor road surfaces) and even greater levels of comfort.

The Bentley Continental GTC Speed has a range of dynamic enhancements that deliver a more sporting, open-top Bentley driving experience. The retuned Continous Damping Control (CDC) system ensures that the body response matches the inputs from the new sports wheels and tyres, while improved body control reduces pitch and roll when cornering enthusiastically. In addition, stiffer rear axle bushes deliver better axle control and turn-in response.

The GTC Speed's suspension is lowered by 10 mm at the front and 15 mm at the rear for improved handling, while the retuned speed-sensitive steering system and solid-mounted front subframe, shared with the standard GTC, benefit steering response.
The wider 9.5J x 20-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels, unique to the GTC Speed, are fitted with bespoke 275/35 ZR20 Pirelli PZero ultra-high performance tyres that provide the car with superior grip as well as sharper steering response and feel.

To ensure optimum aerodynamic balance at speeds up to 200 mph (322 km/h) the new GTC Speed is fitted with a discreet spoiler on the trailing edge of the bootlid. This provides additional downforce and increases the top speed.
For both models, Bentley's carbon-ceramic brakes (CCB) are offered as a cost option. Larger diameter (420 mm front, 356 mm rear), lightweight discs and eight-piston callipers offer fade-resistant braking performance with minimal disc distortion under high thermal conditions. A 20kg weight saving reduces unsprung mass and benefits steering response and handling. This braking system may only be specified with 20-inch diameter wheels and are the largest and most powerful brakes ever fitted to a production car.

The standard-fit tyre-pressure monitoring system (TPMS) allows drivers to select tyre type and speed range parameters. As well as monitoring pressures, the system warns drivers if their speed is too high for the tyre pressures.
Subtle evolution of the GTC's distinctive style
Both the GTC and GTC Speed benefit from subtle revisions to their frontal appearance.
The matrix grille is now more vertical and has a more pronounced square edge that accentuates the distinctive Bentley profile. A new lower bumper design with a widened air intake reinforces the sporting stance of both GTC convertibles, complemented by new chrome headlamp bezels. The new design also provides a practical benefit by improving airflow to the more powerful Speed engine by 14 per cent.
The Bentley Continental GTC Speed has a unique set of design cues, notably a dark-tinted matrix grille to the upper and lower air intakes, a black lower bumper valance, wider, rifled exhaust tailpipes and 20-inch, silver-painted, multi-spoke alloy wheels. The wheels are available as an option with a special dark tint finish.
GTC and GTC Speed customers have a choice of 17 'standard' paint colours including two new colours (Aquamarine and Blue Crystal).

The luxurious hand-crafted cabin
The cabins of both GTC and GTC Speed are available with a choice of 6 natural, unbleached, laser-cut wood veneers and 17 premium grade leather hides, Aquamarine.

The GTC Speed's cabin is based on that of the Mulliner Driving Specification (a cost option on the standard GTC). It features diamond quilted hide seats with embroidered Bentley emblems, a knurled chrome and hide gearlever and a three-spoke multi-function steering wheel with brushed aluminium switch surround. These are complemented by drilled alloy foot-pedals and 'Speed' logos to the polished treadplates. The standard GTC also receives a new Bentley 'B' brake pedal.

New adaptive cruise control system
A sophisticated follow-to-stop, radar-based Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) system is now available on both GTC and GTC Speed. It uses a long-range radar sensor, mounted in the lower front grille, to monitor the road ahead for other vehicles. When a slower moving vehicle is detected, the system automatically adjusts the throttle or brakes to maintain a 'time gap', as selected by the driver.

New Luxury Bentley Continental GTC Speed

Concept Jaguar C-X75: First Live photos + video

Jean Pierre has given you all the info from this very nice surprise for Paris: The Jaguar C-X75. I can not help you publish some photos this afternoon (53 to be exact) further conducted on the stand of the British brand.

Purity, elegant lines, the Supercars still know us dream, like the Lamborghini Sesto Elemento are fabulous gear and tan bad if you can never ask our sitting up in, we like them because they represent the elite of the automobile.

Audi E-Tron Quattro Spyder: Live Paris 2010

We have supplied the technical information for the e-Tron Spyder and the Quattro before but here are some additional pictures from the Paris Motor Show in Paris.

I love the most muscular American Quattro which resurrects a legendary model. The wink of the flat back to the original version of 1980 is also very pleasant.

For younger and refresh the memories of others, here is a brief history of the quattro. The Quattro as its name suggests is the first large series sports coupe AWD permanent. The first generation receives a 5-cylinder 2.1L 10 valves (WR), equipped with a turbocharger and an air exchanger that increases the power to 200hp (170hp instead of the version without heat exchanger fitted to the 200 Turbo ).

The Audi quattro is easily recognized by its flared fenders and bumpers specific that differentiate the Audi Coupe GT which it derives. 0-100km / h is in 7.1 seconds for a top speed of 222km / h

2011 Saab 9-4X : first official pictures of the SUV

The Saab 9-4X was nearly a Arles. This SUV Swedish repeatedly delayed because of a troubled situation, finally makes its nest and turns through two photos ... informal. Because yes, it has not been formally presented.

It will be shown a preview before the exhibition in Los Angeles in early November. We discovered today some differences with the lean concept herald Saab 9-4X Biopower January 2008. Yes already.

They reside in the design of the rear bumper and the size of the lower air intakes. Otherwise copy it. The cabin is close to the Saab 9-5 sedan by the privileged attending a private presentation.

Lamborghini Sesto Elemento: the 1st live photos

After the first presentation of Jean Pierre, here are the pictures of the presentation of self in the great VW press conference held this evening.