After we presented many news from Geneva Motor Show about renowned automakers, I think it’s time that we turn our attention to sports car that will leave you with your mouth gaping. It’s the KO 7 Spider developed by Japanese designer Ken Okuyama, the same man that contributed to Ferrari’s Enzo and Maserati’s Quattroporte with this ideas. The KO 7 Spider will have a production of 99 models and it will be available for about $150,000 as of this year. For a better view of the sportscar, check out the gallery below.

Gallery: KO 7 Spider

For the Geneva Auto Show, Jaguar came with a special limited edition – it’s the XKR-S. They will manufacture only 200 products which will feature a 4.2-liter V8 supercharged engine that produces 420 HP, enough for boosting the Jaguar from 0 to 60 in 4.9 seconds.

The XKR-S Coupe is a lightweight sports car, but also with luxury ads: soft-grain leather, Bowers & Wilkins sound system, Charcoal Alston headliner and high-tech instruments.

Check out the gallery below and follow the full press release after the jump.

Gallery: Jaguar XKR-S Coupe

PRESS RELEASE:
JAGUAR XKR-S – THE ULTIMATE XK

The Jaguar XKR-S: a lightweight sports coupe that takes the Jaguar sports car experience to a new level. As the fastest production XK to date, it delivers a combination of high speed performance, dynamic excellence and crafted luxury that is unique to Jaguar.

At-a-Glance

• The new XKR-S coupe is the fastest production XK to date, providing the Jaguar enthusiast with an even more driver-focused high speed performance experience
• Limited to 200 cars – available only in Europe, in both right-hand and left-hand drive
• The XKR-S is capable of 0-60mph (0-100kph) in 4.9 (5.2) seconds and has a maximum speed, electronically limited, of 174mph (280kph) – making it the fastest Jaguar since the XJ220 supercar
• Revised suspension with bespoke springs, dampers, anti-roll bar and recalibrated Computer Active Technology Suspension (CATS) further improve the XKR’s outstanding ride and handling balance
• Exterior styling features revised front air-splitter and side sill-extensions, revised rear spoiler and rear bumper with unique diffuser panel and unique 20″ lightweight Vortex alloy wheels
• Ultimate Black metallic paint colour with contrasting finish to the grille, sills, side power vents and rear diffuser
• Alcon R Performance braking system with red monobloc six-piston callipers and 400mm brake discs at the front, 350mm at the rear
• Six-speed automatic transmission with Jaguar Sequential ShiftTM for ultra-quick manual gear shifts in milliseconds, using steering-wheel-mounted paddles
• Active Exhaust System ensures refinement at cruising speed but purposeful V8 roar under hard acceleration
• Strong, lightweight and exceptionally rigid all-aluminium body construction delivers excellent dynamic agility
• The luxury sports interior features full soft-grain leather with twin-needle contrast stitching, adjustable seat bolsters, Piano Black veneer, Charcoal Alston luxury headliner plus the XKR’s comprehensive standard specification
• Bowers & Wilkins surround sound system, with 525W Premium audio, featuring low distortion Kevlar mid-range speakers and aluminium dome speakers, designed and tuned specifically for XK
• In summary, the ultimate Jaguar XK and a perfect illustration of Jaguar’s philosophy of building beautiful, fast cars.

The XKR-S coupe is the fastest production XK to date. Powered by Jaguar’s acclaimed 4.2litre V8 supercharged engine, it has been developed for the true Jaguar enthusiast. It is faster and more agile than the XKR, taking the Jaguar sports car experience to a new level, whilst retaining the refined, dynamic excellence and crafted luxury that is unique to Jaguar.

Sharing the XKR’s highly advanced lightweight aluminium body architecture, the high performance of the XKR-S is made totally accessible by the enormous reserves of the
4.2-litre all aluminium four-cam supercharged V8′s 420bhp (SAE) and 560Nm of torque.

With recalibrated engine management, the XKR-S reaches an electronically limited top speed of 174mph (280kph) – 19mph (30kph) faster than the XKR. This additional performance is made accessible by improved aerodynamics (reduced drag and lift) and unique suspension set-up.

Sharing the XKR’s class-leading six-speed sequential automatic transmission, the
XKR-S has exceptional refinement and the option of ultra-fast manual shifts controlled by steering wheel-mounted paddle shifts – with shift times measured in milliseconds to make this one of the fastest shifting transmissions in the world.

To match its increased performance, the XKR-S adopts the most powerful brakes on any Jaguar production model, plus extensive changes to its suspension and steering to provide further enhanced ride and handling characteristics without compromising comfort.

The high performance braking system for the XKR-S was developed by Jaguar’s Special Vehicles team in partnership with British competition brake specialist Alcon, which supplies the stopping power for some of the fastest cars in the world, on both road and track. The brakes were perfected over thousands of miles of testing on some of Europe’s most demanding roads, and by Jaguar’s engineering team at the Nurburgring in Germany. The XKR-S Alcon R Performance braking system features 400mm diameter discs on the front and 350mm discs at the rear. Each disc is radially ventilated for maximum cooling and to resist fade even under the hardest use, and will perfectly match the XKR-S’s increased top speed. The friction surfaces of each disc carry a series of crescent-shaped grooves that help clear water from the discs during wet weather and help to keep the brake pads clean at all times. The Alcon R performance brake package uses lightweight monobloc six-piston callipers at the front and four-piston callipers at the rear – each calliper finished in a distinctive red and carrying the R logo.

The XKR-S coupe’s dynamic balance focuses on achieving an even more sporting character while retaining the XKR’s supple ride comfort. Its blend of control and refinement begins with the extremely stiff all-aluminium body structure, and a re-tuning of the XKR’s all-wishbone suspension. The XKR-S features new springs, new anti-roll bars and unique dampers. All the major suspension parameters are recalibrated, and the XKR-S uses Jaguar’s proven Computer Active Technology Suspension (CATS) with unique tuning. It also uses a faster ratio steering rack, for quicker reactions and optimum feel.

The limited edition coupé in Ultimate Black is identified by the unique XKR-S badge on the rear of the car. The exterior of the XKR-S has been subtly enhanced to make it recognisably different without being overstated. Another significant element in the revised handling package is that the ride height of the XKR-S has been reduced by 10mm compared with that of the XKR, and the XKR-S sits on unique, lightweight 20-inch Vortex forged alloy wheels with bespoke tyres. That naturally makes the XKR-S look lower and even more sporting, but it has a number of other distinguishing details. It features a new front aerodynamic splitter, side sill extensions, revised rear spoiler and rear diffuser panel, with contrasting finishes to details such as the front mesh grille, power vents, sills and rear diffuser panel.

The XKR-S has an Active Exhaust System, which is specifically tuned to ensure quiet, refined high-speed cruising while producing a much more hard-edged and sporting V8 sound under hard acceleration – not over loud, but full of performance character.

While the mechanical specification and the exterior revisions are driven largely by performance and dynamic enhancement, the interior changes reflect Jaguar’s vision of the XKR-S as an uncompromisingly luxurious sports car.

The full soft grain leather trim is finished in Charcoal with Ivory twin-needle contrast stitching, with leather wrapping the seats, instrument panel top, centre console, inner door panels and rear side panels. This is complemented by Piano Black veneer, Charcoal Alston luxury headlining, plus a revised instrument cluster – calibrated to accommodate the higher top speed – with XKR-S branding. The contrast-stitched leather trimmed steering wheel, alloy and leather gear selector with alloy surround, bright aluminium pedals, and XKR-S branded head-restraints, tread-plates and carpet mats further set the tone for this very special interior.

Taking Jaguar’s 525W Premium Audio system with Pro Logic II surround sound as a starting point, renowned premium British loudspeaker manufacturer Bowers & Wilkins has tuned a signature speaker system specifically for the cabin of the XKR-S. High output, low distortion Kevlar mid-range speakers and specially designed aluminium-dome tweeters deliver superb mid-range and extended high-frequency responses.

On sale in summer 2008 and limited to just 200 cars in European markets only, the XKR-S is an even more driver-focused sports grand tourer than the XKR.

JAGUAR XKR-S FEATURES

XKR-S FEATURES

• Available in Ultimate Black metallic paint colour with contrasting paint finish to the grille, sills, side power vents and rear splitter and diffuser
• Revised front splitter and side sill extensions
• Revised rear spoiler and rear bumper fitted with unique splitter and diffuser panel
• Vortex 20″ forged, 14 spoke lightweight alloy wheels with unique design and red Jaguar “Heritage” centre badge
• Alcon R Performance braking system with red callipers
• Bowers & Wilkins Premium Sound System
• Luxury Sport interior theme with Warm Charcoal full soft-grain leather and Ivory twin needle contrast stitching – 16 way electrically adjustable seating with adjustable bolsters
• Piano Black interior finish to facia and centre console
• Charcoal Alston headlining
• Alloy and leather gear lever with alloy selector gate surround
• Flint carpets with Flint carpet mats, edged in Charcoal leather with Ivory stitching
• XKR-S badging
• Unique XKR-S logo to the instrument cluster, tread-plate, front seat head-restraints and carpet mats

TRANSMISSION, SUSPENSION AND BRAKES

• 6-speed electronic automatic transmission with Jaguar Sequential ShiftTM
• Unique dampers and CATSTM (Computer Active Technology Suspension) tuning
• Trac DSC (Dynamic Stability Control)
• Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Emergency Brake Assist (EBA), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) – drive-away release
• New steering rack, springs and revised calibrations
• Reduced ride height (10mm)

EXTERIOR

• Intelligent Lighting System – automatic headlamps on with windscreen wipers
• Active Front Lighting (dynamic pivoting headlamps)
• Bi-Xenon headlamps with integrated cornering lamps, automatic levelling and headlamp washers
• Bonnet louvres
• Quad tailpipes with polished finish
• Front and Rear Park Assist
• Heated exterior mirrors with electric adjustment, power folding auto-dimming and memory function
• Heated windscreen with timer and rain sensing windscreen wipers
• Instant Mobility System (IMS) in lieu of space saver spare wheel

INTERIOR

• Memory function with 3 settings for driver’s and passenger’s seat, exterior mirrors and steering column
• Padded leather 3-spoke steering wheel
• Cruise control with active speed limiter
• Automatic air recirculation with 5 setting
• Automatic climate control with humidity control, air particle/odour filtration and dual zone temperature control for driver and front passenger
• Auto-dimming interior rear view mirror
• Electric windows with one-touch open/close and anti-trap
• Glove box with auxiliary power socket
• Interior mood lighting
• Jaguar Smart Key SystemTM with keyless start
• Keyless Entry
• Alloy pedals

SECURITY

• Remote control central locking with deadlocks and drive-away locking
• Intrusion and perimetric alarm with passive sounder and battery back-up
• Engine immobiliser

AUDIO AND COMMUNICATIONS

• Bowers and Wilkins Premium Sound with 525W Jaguar Premium surround sound
• Navigation system with DVD mapping and 7 inch Touch-screen
• Bluetooth® telephone connectivity
• 6-disc in-dash CD changer
• Windows Media® Audio (WMA) and MP3 disc compatibility
• iPod and USB connectivity

SAFETY

• Adaptive Restraint Technology System (ARTSTM)
• Airbags, front and side (driver and front passenger)
• Belt reminder system (front seats only)
• Front seat whiplash reduction system
• Pedestrian Contact Sensing – automatically deployable bonnet system
• ISOfix anchor points for rear child seat
• Front and rear seat belt pre-tensioners

A couple of weeks ago Mercedes announced the 2009 Mercedes SL63 AMG and we have said a few words about it. Today we just want to say that the German automaker brought it to Geneva Motor Show. OK, I guess I will have to say a bit more – the SL63 is powered by a 6.3-liter v8 engine specially designed by AMG which produces 538 HP and it feature the seven-speed MCT Transmission with AMG’s speedshift. If you see more, please check out the live shots from the gallery below.

Gallery: Mercedes SL63 AMG

We saw a lot of automakers at the Geneva Motor Show – one of them was BMW. As promised they brought a few new cars at the auto show. Today we present you the M3 Cabriolet which had a serious competition at the BMW stand, but if it were to make a classification for the good-looking cars, this convertible would definitely appear in Top-Ten. If you will check the gallery below, you will see about are we talking about.

Gallery: BMW M3 Cabriolet

The Geneva Motor Show is all about premieres and other remarkable cars. The 78th edition of the renowned auto show didn’t make an exception. Here is the “Bugatti Veyron Fbg par Hermes” and if you thought that the previous model of Veyron was exclusive, than you probably won’t be too surprised by the $2.3 million price tag for the new Bugatti.The 8-liter 16W-cylinder engine produces 1001 HP at 6,000 rpm and 1250 Nm between 2200 and 5500 rpm, enough the boost the car from 0 to 60 in 2.5 seconds. Check out the gallery below and you can read the press release after the jump.

Gallery: Bugatti Veyron Fbg par Hermes

Press Release

On the occasion of the 78th Geneva Motor Show (from 6 to 16 March 2008), Bugatti and Hermès co-present the fruit of their partnership: the “Bugatti Veyron Fbg par Hermès”, associating Bugatti’s technical performance with the expertise of Hermès and its craftsmen. In partner-ship with Hermès, designer Gabriele Pezzini has married the distinctive Hermès style to the legendary Bugatti Veyron 16.4, magnifying the car’s personality.

This remarkable car features an array of excep¬tional characteristics: the innovative alliance of a technologically advanced engine, deliver¬ing 1001 horsepower, with an understated yet uncompromising silhouette reflecting the high performance capacities of state-of-the-art engineering and design, and above all, the pleasure these inspire in every Bugatti owner.

The fascination exerted by this sports coupé, capable of reaching 407 km/h, is due in large part to its unique alliance of the very finest motor-racing technology with comfortable handling for everyday driving. The 16-cylinder “W” configuration engine is fed by four turbochargers and features 64 valves, generating 1001 horse¬power at 6000 rpm. The engine draws on its 8-litre displacement to deliver a maximum torque of 1250 Newton-metres between 2200 and 5500 rpm. With full-time all-wheel drive, the car’s phenomenal power produces breath-takingly dynamic handling, with acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in a mere 2.5 seconds. The Bugatti Veyron 16.4 benefits from aero-nautical and aerospace technologies, making it the fastest production car ever made. The car also features a braking system designed to deliver unprecedented powers of deceleration, establish¬ing a new industry benchmark. The carbon-fibre discs provide brake pressure of up to 180 bars, combined with eight-piston monobloc callipers and titanium pistons fitted with fine steel heads and ceramic heat protectors. Apply the brakes at speeds above 200 km/h, and the rear wing acts as an airbrake, positioning itself at an angle of 113 degrees in less than 0.4 seconds, augmenting the Bugatti Veyron’s already impressive stopping power. The airbrake increases negative lift at the rear of the car to 300 kg, enhancing the braking torque on the rear axle. At 400 km/h, emergency braking will bring the sports car to a complete halt in less than 10 seconds.

This, the world’s most fascinating car, has pushed back the limits of physical engineering to offer a completely new sensation for driver and passenger alike. But it has also adopted a radically different stance to that of other sports cars: its features and finish are sure to impress the most demanding clientele. Hermès and designer Gabriele Pezzini have lavished attention on the interior and exterior of this exceptional car, to create the new Bugatti Veyron 16.4: the “Bugatti Veyron Fbg par Hermès”

A harmonious design, inside and out

The official name of the highly exclusive Bugatti Veyron “Fbg par Hermès” refers to the historic Hermès headquarters on the Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré, in the heart of Paris’s eighth arrondissement: the “Fbg” appellation evokes the house’s “faubourg” address.

With the Bugatti Veyron Fbg par Hermès, the exacting standards of Émile Hermès and Ettore Bugatti come together for the first time, in a exceptional collaboration: the culmination of their extreme attention to aesthetic and techno¬logical quality and performance.

Gabriele Pezzini has reinterpreted Bugatti’s tradi¬tional two-tone carriage work, fostering a fluid, harmonious transition between the car’s exterior and interior design. The colour of the hood extends to the interior of the cockpit, and re-emerges behind, at the level of the rear wing.
As a tribute to the celebrated 1924 Bugatti Type 35, undoubtedly the most famous of all time, thanks to its many successes on the racetrack, the new Bugatti Veyron Fbg par Hermès features eight-spoked wheels in polished aluminium, central butterfly wheel locks branded with the letter H, and air vents around the rims repro¬ducing the characteristic appearance of Hermès saddle-stitching. The horseshoe radiator grille, and the lateral ventilation grilles flanking it, are made from lightweight alloys with a design of interlocking H’s evoking the Hermès “signature”.
A refined formal vocabulary

The inner surfaces of the Bugatti Veyron Fbg par Hermès have been designed and sheathed in bull calfskin by the Hermès workshops in Paris. The care and attention to detail observe an extremely refined, minimalist formal vocabulary, reflecting the tradition of the very first Bugattis and the fundamental design principles of the house of Hermès. The door handles echo the fluid forms of handles on Hermès travel bags and luggage. And the dashboard, traditionally finished in brushed aluminium, is here clad entirely in bull calfskin. Passengers aboard the Bugatti Veyron Fbg par Hermès will find a dashboard glove compartment designed to hold a selection of small travel accessories and a zipped Hermès wallet. Both seats are covered in two-toned bull calfskin, and the panel separating the cockpit from the central rear engine – traditionally made of carbon fibre – is covered in the same fine leather. The leather-lined trunk holds a specially-fitted “Toile H” and leather case, hand-made by craftsmen from the Hermès workshops.

This exceptional model – in toning colours of ebony and étoupe, or ebony and brick – is priced at 1.55 million euros (not including tax), available at the end of 2008.

Let’s take a moment of our time to take a look to a car which is not related and will not show up for the Geneva Motor Show. The reason why we present you this Mercedes-Benz is that the German automaker has developed a new hybrid system. The new S400 BlueHybrid will be powered by a 3.5-liter V6 petrol engine along with the 15kW electric engine.

The novelty consists of the fact that this hybrid will be the first to use lithium ion battery. Also the S400 BlueHybrid is the most economical sedan in NEDC (city and highway driving) by managing about 30 miles per gallon. This Hybrid Concept will be available as of 2009 with the ML450 two-mode hybrid system in the U.S. and Europe.

Source

The upcoming Geneva Motor Show, by the way it’s the 78th edition of the famous show, will be full of concept cars which is not so bad considering the fact that most of them are really cool. Another “concept-maker” called Webasto announced that they will show up with the LigHT Concept at Geneva and they will self-praise with the Light Hybrid Top (a roof concept) and with the Liquid Heat Generator (LHG) which is an auxiliary heating system.

The Geneva Motor Show will open for public as of 6th March and we will bring you more infos then and we will try to get our hands on a photo gallery, but until then follow the press release after the jump.

PRESS RELEASE

Webasto at the Geneva Motor Show 2008

Presentation of the Webasto LigHT (Light Hybrid Top) roof concept and the LHG (Liquid Heat Generator) auxiliary heating system are highlights of Webasto’s appearance at the show

Stockdorf/Munich – 12 February 2008 –

Webasto is exhibiting at the 78th Geneva Motor Show taking place 6 – 16 March 2008, new products from its two business groups Convertible, Roof & Body (CRB) and Global Comfort Solutions (GCS) will be presented under the motto “Moving Innovations” in Hall 5, Stand 5132. The CRB input is the new “Webasto LigHT Concept” – an innovative roof concept featuring a hybrid top with a new material mix – which will be shown on a roadster design study. The contribution from GCS is the Liquid Heat Generator (LHG), a newly developed auxiliary heating system which generates heat, which occurs through turbulence in the engine coolant, and is regulated by an intelligent hydraulic performance control.

In addition, three creative and dynamic 1:4-scale convertible roof models provide a glance into the automotive future; they are the result of a design study carried out by Webasto in cooperation with Munich University’s Faculty of Design. Under the motto “The roof of the future”, the potential designers had the opportunity to unleash their fantasy and develop studies beyond the classic convertible body styles. Furthermore, the company is also displaying the world’s largest polycarbonate roof, exclusively developed for the smart fortwo and to date fitted in 100,000 series vehicles.

On the public days at the show, Webasto will be offering end customers a wealth of information on its current range of after market products in the areas of parking heater systems and sliding roofs for passenger cars.

Finally we get something we want – Italdesign Giugiaro has released high-res pics of the Quaranta Concept just before Geneva Motor Show. We’ve been expecting this for a long time for the concept based on the 1968 Bizzarrini Manta Concept for its looks and on the Toyota Prius for its engine.

The Hybrid Synergy Drive completed with the 3.3-liter V6 engine produces 268 HP and 212 lb-ft of torque, enough to boost the Quaranta from 0 to 60 in just 4.05 seconds. Another design and tech cool characteristic is the solar power-generating roof. The design of the concept is simply astonishing and it will surely draw everybody’s attention at the upcoming auto show.

Check out the gallery below and follow the full press release after the jump.

Source

PRESS RELEASE

ITALDESIGN GIUGIARO QUARANTA CONCEPT POWERED BY TOYOTA HYBRID SYNERGY DRIVE

Uncompromising innovation in Giugiaro tradition

An “extreme”, clean-technology project embodying 40 years of styling research and engineering celebrated by Italdesign Giugiaro in Geneva

The “Quaranta” project is a concept car designed to celebrate Italdesign Giugiaro’s forty years of business in styling and technological research at the service of the automotive sector. The Quaranta, world-premiered at the 2008 Geneva International Motor Show, is a synthesis of Italdesign Giugiaro’s unmatched experience of automotive design: from city cars to super sports-cars, from MPVs to medium-engined saloons up to and including luxury flagships and environment-friendly SUV, not to mention light/heavy duty commercial vehicles, in complete cooperation with leading manufacturers all over the world.

The Quaranta is an “extreme” product, an environment-friendly, 4WD super sports-car which incorporates a series of innovative aspects: its styling, but also its drive technology, which combines a hybrid engine with solar energy, and its internal layout which, despite its mid-mounted rear engine, can accommodate three adults and a child, also providing a generous luggage compartment.

The idea which inspired the Quaranta project is that of the first single-volume concept car with central engine and drive. The original reference is to the 1968 Bizzarrini Manta which, at that time, represented a major breakthrough in styling, now adapted to state-of-the-art technology and enriched with Italdesign Giugiaro’s forty years experience of research.

The style of the future
Despite its flat, highly compact shape, the Quaranta features a single-volume shape characterized by a continuous body line stretching from its clipped nose to the tail that exploits the almost horizontal rake of the windscreen.

Access to the cabin is “step-in” via an upper door incorporating the side ones. At the touch of an electric on/off button, the door opens upward in a downwind direction, regulated by proximity sensors. The door is hinged to the hood pillar and is aligned with a second upper rear door, for access to the engine compartment and boot.

The roof houses the array of solar panels, necessary to power the electric battery, in the space between the two doors. Along with the other solar panels positioned on the front end, these create a central opaque strip, a distinctive signature of the model, thanks to the interplay of light with the bright paint of the bodywork. The solar panels can generate a power of up to 250 W, sufficient for the functioning of the cockpit conditioning system and for recharging the electric battery.

The styling of the Quaranta prototype is further enhanced by the attention dedicated to surface aerodynamics, designed to ensure maximum possible efficiency and penetration, also by using sharp edges on the rear. This can also be noted in the front end of the vehicle where the radiator grille has been eliminated and replaced by two side air inlets, positioned above the lighting clusters, which perform the delicate function of front stabilizers. The rear of the vehicle has also been conceived to improve overall aerodynamic performance: an attentively-molded spoiler, with a perfectly square-edged cut and a very technical design, has the scope of supporting the lower wing, modeled according to latest generation F1 styling, that makes up for the absence of the traditional upper stabilizer.

Styling research aimed at top aerodynamic performance is also reflected on the sides, characterized by extremely generous glazing stretching from the front fender to the tail and in which the air vents are housed, located after the doors but also along the sill, in which the water cooling ducts are inserted. The most innovative feature of the side profile is certainly the contour line, between the door-windows and the sill, which is “negative” in the shoulder section, a particular, absolutely innovative feature for super sports-cars.

Interiors: technology for safety and comfort
Inside, the most striking innovation can be found in the multi-control steering wheel which reflects an idea already incorporated in the 1980 Medusa, a prototype developed by Italdesign and on display at its stand in Geneva: all vehicle driving and control functions are concentrated on the spokes, where the stalks have been eliminated and replaced with keys. This guarantees easier control by the driver, in a central position which can be obtained due to the absence of the gearbox-transmission block tunnel. This is possible thanks to the electric four-wheel drive system which eliminates any obstacles on the floor pan, making it completely flat. The generously-scaled central space of the cockpit can accommodate two adults and a child, behind the driver. The dashboard has been conceived with a sporting, modern look, with clean-cut details matching the style of the exterior, and equipped with a vast array of instruments. These are organized on two levels: the screens of the side and rear TV cameras are positioned on the upper level, with particular attention to the left-hand view mirror, useful when overtaking; the lower level is dedicated to the management of the vehicle. The drive-panel also includes a visor for X-ray sensors for night driving. The dark-colored leather and alcantara upholstery reflects the most refined Italian taste.

The lighting clusters are extremely modern: the low-beam lights are based on led technology, while the full-beam are of the Bi-xenon type. The direction indicators, the tail and rear stop lights are of the full led type, inserted in a single box but differentiated according to color, assembled and adapted by hand at Italdesign Giugiaro.

Last but not least, the Quaranta features 9 ½ by 20″ alloy wheels, without hub caps for improved styling and aerodynamics, and four Vredestein tires as standard, which differ only in shoulder height: 275/35/R20 front and 275/40/R20 rear. The dimensions are certainly tight for a super sports-car but suitable for a 4WD car.

Mold-breaking mechanicals
The structure of the prototype is made up of the carbon monocoque frame onto which aluminum and special steel parts are assembled, while the windscreen and roof are made of stratified glass with UVA filter. The Quaranta is fit with electronic four-wheel drive, divided in a small electric motor on the fore-carriage and the thermal engine/electric engine system located in a central rear position. This particular structure, which has seen Toyota’s involvement in the electronic control management, has made it possible to develop the vehicle on a 2620-mm wheelbase, ideal for a mid-engined car.

The batteries which assist the electric motors are located between the engine compartment and the cockpit and are powered directly by the solar panels. The Quaranta features a double fuel-tank, integrated in the supporting frame, with a total capacity of 60 liters, giving a mileage of up to 1000 km.

Dynamic asset is variable in two ride height positions: sporting and raised. Maximum ground clearance is 230 mm, an absolute record which means that the super sports-car can take any type of terrain in its stride. The main technical aspect that distinguishes the mechanical design of the Quaranta is the weight balance and in particular the “weight centering”: all the mechanical weight of the vehicle is contained between the two axles, including the mufflers which are positioned in front of the rear wheels. Only the radiator and a large overhanging luggage compartment, able to accommodate two golf-bags, remain outside.

The front suspensions also represent a breakthrough: designed according to F1 cars, they are equipped with a central mono-shock echoing an idea already presented by Italdesign – Giugiaro on the 2004 Toyota Volta and on the 1997 Alfa Romeo Scighera. The linkage mechanism of the levers guarantees exceptional stability in any type of situation, simulating a “multilink” mechanism. The links have been designed and engineered entirely by ITALDESIGN GIUGUIARO: the “ovalized” down tubes are made of special steel and the uprights of Ergal.

The entire Quaranta project is an idea of Italdesign Giugiaro, constructed in accordance with the classical formula of the package of services furnished to automotive manufacturers.

Quaranta confirms the classic Italdesign – Giugiaro versatile service formula for car manufacturers. The competence and capability of designing a new car model considering style development, frame development, safety and ergonomics analyses and mechanics development, starting only from a given functioning engine.

The chassis, bodywork and layout of the Quaranta prototype have been designed by the Engineering Division of Italdesign Giugiaro, while the mechanicals and electronics have been developed in cooperation with Toyota. The vehicle was entirely built at the Moncalieri facilities.

The Italdesign Giugiaro construction process
The Italdesign Giugiaro construction and prototyping process, tried and tested during forty years of activity in the automotive sector but also extended to industrial design, preserves certain characteristics of technical specialization and production quality of unequalled value.

- Construction of a prototype involves various completely independent phases that can also be carried out with a modular approach. Starting from hand-made drawings, the next step is Styling Research and definitive development of the master models, using state-of-the-art CAD technologies. In parallel, the phases of technical design of the prototype

interior, or even of only some parts, can be integrated with style development, producing a unique technical result. This is the most complete, professional process that Italdesign can offer its clients. Following consolidation of the styling-engineering project, a full-scale mockup is built. The mock-up gives the possibility of physically evaluating modifications and integrations and represents the basis for the subsequent construction of the final prototype. Italdesign can also carry out various technical tests, including the model crash-test;

• The prototyping phase, a mainly hand-crafted process with the aid of forefront automated systems, includes preparation of the assembly jigs (so-called negatives), usually constructed by hand in the workshop, and hitting models milled according to the style master models, useful for beating the sheets of aluminum or stratified carbon;
• Work on the interior is necessary in order to prepare the seats, facial, door panels and all the other elements inserted in the cabin of the vehicle. Lined fiberglass-reinforced parts are always constructed at Italdesign, and also the upholstery, available in any type of material or shape required;
• The above phases are followed by construction of the mechanical and structural parts of the prototype, preparation of the tooling and uprights necessary for the construction phase and beating of the parts, assembly of the structure, of the interior and accessories and lastly painting. In the case of the Quaranta prototype, the door was designed and constructed entirely at Italdesign using a temporary piston tubular structure, subsequently reproduced and fastened to the chassis.

Cooperation between Toyota-Italdesign Giugiaro
Cooperation between Italdesign Giugiaro and Toyota Group started with the supply of the high performance hybrid engine fit on the Volta prototype, displayed for the first time at the 2004 Geneva Show.

For the Quaranta, Toyota furnished Italdesign Giugiaro with a derivative of the latest available hybrid system, Toyota Hybrid Synergy Drive technology. The innovative aspect of this engine lies in the ability of the electronic control system to regulate the power distributed by the electric motors to the wheels, making the clutch-gearbox-transmission block superfluous.

The Toyota Hybrid Synergy Drive system guarantees power, acceleration and top performance still keeping high mileage, reduced emissions and extremely silent operation. The compact battery makes it possible to store the energy produced in the braking or deceleration phase instead of dispersing this as heat.

The electric motor is complementary to the thermal engine but can also operate independently, activated by the electronic traction control unit where ideal conditions exist.

The Toyota Hybrid Synergy Drive system consists of a V6 3.3 liter gasoline engine and of two electric motors that operate in synergy, delivering a high power output, comparable to that of an 8-cylinder engine, but with fuel
consumption and emissions lower than those of a 4 cylinder engine. To improve efficiency and handling, the intelligent E-Four system automatically activates two- or four-wheel drive, taking advantage of the increased handling and stability of four-wheel drive in acceleration, cornering or braking, and the reduced consumption and acoustic comfort of rear wheel drive at normal cruising speed.

The Toyota Hybrid Synergy Drive system also includes the E-CVT Electronic-Continuously Variable Transmission, an automatic planetary gear transmission with ratios varying infinitely as speed changes.

The real innovation of the Quaranta prototype is reflected in the mid-ship positioning of a hybrid engine on a super sports-car that guarantees high performance with reduced consumption and low emissions.

Technical data

Length (mm): 4450
Height (mm): 1230
Height from ground (mm): 165 / 230
Wheelbase (mm): 2620
Front/Rear overhang (mm) :960 / 758 (1014 / 808)
Front/rear width (mm): 1980 / 1982
Front/rear track (mm): 1759 / 1697
Front tires: 275 / 35 / R20 Vredestein
Rear tires: 275 / 40 / R20 Vredestein
Rims: 9 ½ x 20″ OZ
Windscreen angle of incidence: 70°
Weight (kg): 1400
Drive: 4WD
Front suspensions: “Push-rod” type with overlapped triangular wishbones and central mono-shock-absorber
Rear suspensions: Push-rod” type with overlapped triangular wishbones and two shock-absorbers

Values and driving performance

Displacement (cm3): V6 3311
Max. power (kW/rpm): 155/5600
System total power (kW): 200
Max. torque (Nm/rpm): 288/4400
Top speed (km/h): 250 (limited)
0 – 100 km/h (sec.): 4.05
Consumption (l/100 km, combined cycle): 7,1
CO2 emissions (g/km, combined cycle): 180

After we presented you the XKR Portfolio, today we bring in front of you another Jaguar model for the Geneva Motor Show – the XJ Portfolio. The XJ features lightweight aluminum body, a supercharged V8 engine, Computer Active Technology Technology Suspension (CATS), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), 20-inch spoke Selena wheels and the interior is very luxurious but we will let you find out more in the press release below.The XJ Portfolio is availabe and it’s waiting its customers with multiple and various options which could please even to most fastidious person.

Follow the press release that I’ve been talking about and check out the gallery below.

PRESS RELEASE

JAGUAR XJ PORTFOLIO SPECIAL EDITION

Built in limited numbers to offer new levels of luxury, craftsmanship and exclusivity, the XJ Portfolio is characterized by premium quality materials and exquisite attention to detail.

• Portfolio is a name that defines a series of highly luxurious special edition vehicles from Jaguar. The 2009 MY XJ Portfolio – shown for the first time at the Geneva Motor Show in march 2008 – goes on sale in selected markets from Summer 2008

• Lightweight advanced aluminum construction and an acclaimed supercharged V8 engine offer driver-focused dynamic performance

• All XJ Portfolio models come with Computer Active Technology Suspension (CATS), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) and a self-leveling air suspension to ensure impeccable control and ride

• The unique exterior styling includes Celestial Black or Astral Gold paint colors, bespoke 20-inch Selena alloy wheels with red Jaguar ‘Heritage’ badge, milled aluminum side power vents, chrome mirror caps and Portfolio trunk lid signature badge

• Inside, the XJ Portfolio comprises a sumptuous blend of luxury and sporting cues with two exclusive interior trim options – Navy with Champagne piping and Navy carpets or Ivory with Navy piping and Navy carpets.

• Other Portfolio interior touches include a cabin trimmed in Rich Oak veneer with Portfolio motif on passenger airbag lid; Navy leather and alloy gearshift with alloy surround; luxury carpet mats with contrast leather edges and Jaguar ‘Leaper’ logo; embossed Jaguar ‘Leaper’ logo on headrests; stitched leather door casings; Alston luxury headliner; unique front treadplates with Portfolio script.

• Premium specification includes individually heated and cooled front seats; 7-inch Touch-screen, Jaguar premium sound system and dual-zone climate control systems; Bluetooth® connectivity for up to five separate telephones; JaguarVoiceTM, Adaptive Cruise Control and rear multimedia system with DVD player and twin display screens (depending on market).

Jaguar’s commitment to creating beautiful, fast cars continues with the introduction of the new XJ Portfolio – first revealed on the Super V8 Portfolio special edition in 2005.

Already renowned for its all-aluminum body construction, state-of-the-art technologies and outstanding craftsmanship and build quality, the new XJ Portfolio is now even more desirable thanks to its unique exterior and interior styling cues.

Luxury, elegance and dynamic performance are XJ signatures. The XJ Portfolio adds a host of bespoke design cues and styling features that set it apart. The exterior is painted in either Celestial Black or Astral Gold, with contrasting side power vents in milled aluminum. A distinctive profile is completed by new 20″ Selena alloy wheels featuring red Jaguar ‘Heritage’ center badges.

XJ Portfolio’s dynamic excellence is underpinned by XJ’s all-aluminum monocoque body construction and highly advanced chassis and suspension. Lightness with strength and exceptional rigidity provide a platform for remarkable agility and performance, as well as safety, improved fuel efficiency and lower emissions. Computer Active Technology Suspension (CATS), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) and a self-leveling air suspension ensure impeccable control and a ride that is involving yet composed and refined.

In the U.S., the 2009MY XJ Portfolio is available with Jaguar’s highly acclaimed 4.2-liter V8 supercharged (400bhp SAE) or the naturally aspirated V8 engine. In either derivative, the XJ Portfolio offers effortless performance and exceptional refinement.

XJ Portfolio’s individuality is further reflected in a luxurious interior characterized by premium quality materials and exquisite attention to detail. The hand-crafted Rich Oak veneer is new to XJ Portfolio, and there is the choice of two unique interior themes – Navy or Ivory. Each features contrast piping to the softgrain leather upholstery, special twin-stitched door casings and headrests embossed with the Jaguar ‘Leaper’ design. The alloy gear selector, with aluminum gearshift surround, is also trimmed with Navy leather, and there are ‘Portfolio’ branded treadplates and special leather-edged carpet mats.

And XJ Portfolio’s premium specification includes individually heated and cooled front seats; 7-inch Touch-screen operation of the satellite navigation, Jaguar premium sound and dual-zone climate control systems; Bluetooth® connectivity for up to five separate telephones; JaguarVoiceTM, Adaptive Cruise Control, and rear multimedia system with DVD player and twin display screens (depending on market).

The Jaguar XJ Portfolio is available to order now.

KTM announced its presence at the Geneva Motor Show by released some information of the X-Bow Dallara which had its debut last year also at Geneva. The X-Bow is a lightweight, carbon-fiber, two-seater that produces 300 HP, and is the first sports car of KTM.

The company has manufactured 100 products and all of them have been sold. Pretty impressive, huh? Check out the gallery below:

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