Fun Rocking

2010 Mercedes-Benz S400 Hybrid

Along with reports that Mercedes-Benz is stepping up its U.S. diesel presence in a big way comes news that the company is also expanding its hybrid fleet. According to Automotive News, the Silver Arrow is looking to introduce hybridized versions of the company’s C-, E- and S-Class vehicles in just three years. The move is an effort to prepare for ever tightening fuel-economy legislation in both the U.S. and Europe. The report says that European buyers can expect to see the battery-operated C- and E-Class vehicles show up in Europe in 2013 and that a plug-in S-Class hybrid will debut shortly thereafter.

American buyers, meanwhile, will likely see the tech arrive in showrooms six months after their European cousins. According to Herbert Kohler, the company’s head of E-Drive and future mobility, Mercedes-Benz is currently spending half of its $5.6 billion research and development budget on investigating alternative powertrains.

Combined with a heavier diesel mix, the hybrids will go a long way toward upping the Mercedes-Benz corporate average fuel economy.

2012 Ferrari Four

Red may be the iconic color for Ferrari, but not all Ferraris look good in the company’s trademark scarlet shade. Especially the flagship four-seat GTs, like the outgoing 612 Scaglietti and the 456 GT that came before it. But just about every car looks best from the front 3/4 view. So it may have stricken some as a little odd that when Ferrari unveiled the new FF, it only released three initial shots: a front view, a rear view and the side profile… all in red.

Maranello, 25 January – From today the gallery on www.ferrari.com includes a new studio shot of the FF in an elegant Grigio Ferro Met. grey. Along with this studio shot are three images which document the strenuous development testing carried out on the four-wheel-drive system over the snow-bound roads of Sweden and Finland. These depict the prototype development mule clad in camouflage used during the long-term testing of the Ferrari-patented 4RM system.

Aston Martin V8 Vantage S

Aston Martin has found a way to turn up the heat on its V8 Vantage with a new S model. The coupe packs the same 4.7-liter V8 under the hood as its predecessors, though the mad scientists in Gaydon have managed to wrench a full 430 horsepower and 361 pound-feet of torque from the eight-pot. The engine is now bolted to a tweaked version of the company’s seven-speed SportShift II transmission with even shorter ratios than before and the combined effect should be more than enough to snap your neck in style.

The engineers also bolted in a quicker steering rack, huge rotors and six-piston calipers up front to ensure this machine can take whatever level of flogging you deem appropriate.

The design crew at AM specifically lifted cues from the even mightier V12 Vantage and the race-bred Vantage GT4. That means buyers can expect to find a carbon fiber splitter low on the front fascia and a pair of wildlife-swallowing inlets designed to feed those massive stoppers.

Volkswagen Formula XL1 Concept

Volkswagen has taken another step towards making the one-liter car a reality, and this 200 mile-per-gallon dream could be on the roads within the next few years.

The Formula XL1 Concept combines a two cylinder TDI engine, electric motor, lithium-ion battery pack and a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission to achieve an astonishing 0.9L/100 km – just over 260 mpg to us Yanks. The included plug-in system, along with the XL1’s low drag and extensive use of lightweight materials has the potential to make the concept the most efficient vehicle to ever grace public roads.

The XL1 is making its debut at the Qatar Motor Show this week, and while it might look familiar to previous iterations, this latest version is more production read than its predecessors.

Pagani Huayra

After taking a look at our high-res image gallery below, we were tempted to say the Pagani Huayra made its o-fish-ial web debut… but we won’t. Oh, wait.

In any case, Pagani’s newest supercar can now be seen in all its glory, and we generally approve of the overall styling, despite the fact it’s got something of a bottom-feeder fascia up front. Moving past that, we see a pretty serious set of gullwing doors and enough slats, flares and strakes to fill the sketchbook of a Boeing designer.

All those aero aids will surely come in handy when all the fury of the Mercedes-Benz AMG-built 6.0-liter twin-turbo V12 engine is unleashed on the hapless pair of rear tires – the Huayra is said to be capable of speeds up near 230 miles per hour.

Over 700 horsepower and about 740 pound-feet of torque will be sent to the ground through a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox. Couple that with a weight of just under 3,000 pounds – aided by copious amounts of carbon fiber – and you have the makings of a 21st century rear-wheel drive rocket ship.

Inside you’ll find all the luxury touches you’d expect, including a cockpit slathered in beautiful hides and exposed aluminum and carbon fiber. You’ll also bask in the glowing blue gauges and multi-function display that controls audio, navigation and communications gadgetry.

Lamborghini Gallardo LP 560-4 Bicolore

The more things change – or so the saying goes – the more they stay the same. So in a particular bit of history repeating, and as projected in our earlier report, Lamborghini has announced a new Bicolore edition Gallardo.

The two-tone supercar follows the similar path of the Gallardo SE from 2006 with a high-contrast paint scheme: black covering the roof section, pillars, front air intakes and front spoiler, with special titanium-finish multispoke Skorplus alloys. The rest of the body can be had in yellow, orange, silver, blue or white, while the interior carries the same theme with black leather and contrasting stitching to match the exterior color.

The Gallardo LP 560-4 Bicolore – with the 560-horsepower V10 and all-wheel drive – is exclusive to the European and Asia-Pacific markets, and is being unveiled at the Qatar Motor Show as we speak. Lamborghini hasn’t neglected the North American market, however, as the Bicolore treatment is being applied here to the LP 550-2 – the rear-wheel-drive, 550-hp drivetrain that was previously exclusive to the purist Balboni edition.

Lamborghini presents the Gallardo LP 560-4 Bicolore – An extreme look for a Special Edition supersports car

Just a month before the world debut at Geneva Motor Show of its V12 replacement for the Murciélago, Automobili Lamborghini is presenting at the 2011 Qatar Motor Show a highly exclusive and appealing vehicle making its world premiere: the Gallardo LP 560-4 Bicolore, a Special Edition supersports car which will be produced for the European and Asian-Pacific markets, while for the American market it will be only available in the version LP 550-2. As its name implies, this special series features an exclusive two-tone finish with matching interior, and offers a full range of standard equipment. A refined contrast between the black roof and the color of the rest of the body (available in a choice of five shades) further emphasizes the sharp, dynamic lines of the Gallardo LP 560-4, while simultaneously enhancing its sportiness and adding a touch of elegance to an extremely prestigious model in the field of automotive design.

The most successful super sports car in Lamborghini’s history captures the imagination with the brutal power of its 560 hp V10 engine, the absolute grip of its permanent all-wheel drive and the razor-sharp precision of its chassis. Every kilometer in the Lamborghini Gallardo is an intense experience of explosive dynamics and absolute control. Its breathtaking performance is indicated by the 3.7 seconds it takes to reach 100 km/h and its top speed of 325 km/h.

“With the Gallardo LP 560-4 Bicolore, Lamborghini demonstrates once again the extreme, uncompromising and unmistakably Italian nature of our brand. The super sports cars from Lamborghini combine volcanic energy with design that is as unique as it is stylish,” says Stephan Winkelmann, President and CEO of Automobili Lamborghini.

Unique design DNA
The success of Lamborghini’s unequalled design DNA lies in the beauty of highly-concentrated power and precise function. The Gallardo is the sheer essence of form with a purist approach, so the body shell is crisply sculpted and completely free from decoration. A timeless piece of design and an uncompromising driving machine – the Lamborghini Gallardo is both.

Even more extreme, thanks to a personalized appearance
With its new Bicolore model, Lamborghini is now setting a further design highlight in the ten-cylinder model series. The colored exterior finish matched with the black on the upper area of the body gives the Gallardo a new, more aggressive personality that looks even wider, even more extreme and innately adhered to the road.

From the window-line upwards (including pillars, roof, engine hood and rear spoiler), the vehicle is decorated in Noctis Black – a pastel black that contrasts perfectly with the lower area of the body, available in a choice of five colors: Giallo Midas, Arancio Borealis, Grigio Telesto, Bianco Monocerus and Blu Caelum.

The exterior appearance is enhanced by Skorpius aluminum-alloy rims with 15 thin spokes that are forged to minimize unsprung weight and are finished in titanium gray enamel. And, the air intakes and front spoiler have a high-gloss black finish, as does the upper section of the rear diffuser.

Top-quality and highly individual interior
The contrast between black and color is repeated in an understated, elegant manner in the interior of the Gallardo LP 560-4 Bicolore. The instrument panel, seats, door panels and other elements in the passenger compartment are upholstered in the finest “Nero Persus” leather, with a refined contrast provided by precise stitching that is colored to match the exterior paintwork: yellow, orange, blue and gray (also used on the Bianco Monocerus version).

The bezel of the e-gear transmission on the center console is in Nero Noctis, just like the upper area of the vehicle. Obviously, the interior is finished in the Lamborghini tradition using only the materials of the very highest quality, which are crafted with undisputed professionalism and fine Italian workmanship.

V10 like a work of art in a glass display
The complete range of standard equipment includes the fast e-gear automated transmission controlled by paddles on the steering column. A lifting system enables the front axle to be raised for safer travel onto ramps and over humps in the road, and the engine hood in tempered glass provides a stunning view of the heart of the vehicle: a 5.2 liter, 90° V-10 engine with stratified direct injection.

From a satellite navigation system to a rear-view camera, from a brake system with carbon-ceramic discs to heated power seats, a long list of optional equipment and accessories allows the vehicle to be adapted to the personal requirements of any client.

Unique success for a super sports car
Well over 10,000 Gallardos have left the production facility at company headquarters in Sant’Agata Bolognese – a unique success story in the world of super sports cars. The Bicolore Special Edition is particularly intended for the enthusiast who desires a supercar with an exclusive appearance and remarkable design. In any event, he or she will own a Lamborghini that is altogether distinguished by an extremely dynamic character, maximum driving excitement, yet an ability to be driven daily.

Individual characters in one model range
The Gallardo Bicolore completes Lamborghini’s ten-cylinder model range, which is enjoying enormous resonance worldwide with its broad spectrum of individual characters. While the Gallardo LP 560-4 is already a highly trained, extreme athlete, the Gallardo LP 570-4 Superleggera takes the notion of thoroughbred high performance even further. Thanks to its extensive experience in carbon-fiber lightweight engineering, Lamborghini succeeded in reducing its weight by a further 70 kilograms. At 2.35 kilograms per hp, the power-to-weight ratio of the Superleggera is the best in its class, with breathtaking performance guaranteed.

The Gallardo LP 560-4 Spyder, on the other hand, offers a very different kind of extreme driving pleasure – every trip with the roof down is a journey with a hurricane, yet with maximum protection. This can only be bettered – in true Lamborghini style – by the Gallardo LP 570-4 Spyder Performante. Its purist carbon-fiber lightweight engineering, according to Lamborghini’s tradition, adds an even sharper edge to the dynamics.

2011 Volvo S60

During the 2010 Los Angeles Auto Show keynote, Volvo CEO Stefan Jacoby discussed his plans to shift the Swedish automaker away from the rest of the premium segment. This doesn’t mean that the quality of materials or craftsmanship is going to suffer, but instead of creating products that are specifically engineered to compete with the likes of Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz, Volvo will be working to reaffirm its own unique Swedish brand identity.

The 2011 Volvo S60 points the way forward for the brand’s new groundwork. The ‘naughty’ new sedan is stylish, luxurious and has the guts of a true sporting sedan, but it just doesn’t come close to the sort of precision we find in an Audi A4 or BMW 3 Series. Fine, then, that the Volvo has plenty of other impressive qualities to give it a unique edge over the competition. Consider it a premium sport sedan for people who don’t want the stereotypical premium sport sedan.

We recently welcomed a Blazing Copper S60 to the Autoblog Garage to see if Volvo’s recipe for uniqueness has created a delicious dish of Swedish engineering.

Volvo’s quest to create something unmistakably Swedish begins with the S60’s exterior design. So many of the styling attributes found on the Volvo simply wouldn’t work on a traditional German sedan – things like the seven-spoke turbine-inspired 18-inch wheels, chunky headlamp design with LED fangs (Volvo’s new corporate face) and thin-topped eagle’s head taillamps. Even that Blazing Copper paint color (“fluorescent brown,” as a friend called it) would seem off on a BMW or Benz, and the end result is a luxury sedan that is sleek and stylish in its own unique way. And it’s even better in motion. If this Volvo passes you on the highway, you certainly won’t mistake it for anything hailing from Germany or Japan.

Similar things can be said about the S60’s interior, where a general theme of Swedish simplicity takes the Volvo in a different direction than most European sedans. There’s no funky all-seeing, all-knowing control system like Comand, MMI or iDrive on tap, just a single screen with a vertical row of buttons on the “waterfall” center stack. The gauge cluster is a breath of minimalist fresh air, too, with two small display screens for vital information housed within the large speedometer and tachometer. We certainly wouldn’t ask for more pushbuttons or information clusters, and the less-is-more approach to the S60’s design is refreshing.

As much as it makes us seem like hypocrites to praise the S60’s interior layout and then immediately point out its shortcomings, the fact of the matter is that all of this work to minimize switches and knobs has made the car’s technology somewhat difficult to use. Control settings for the audio and navigation functions take a moment to completely figure out, and while it’s not nearly as complicated as the many layers of iDrive or Comand, the Volvo’s interior design would lead you to believe that managing all of the tech functions would be a bit simpler. If we’re honest, we’d almost prefer a few more buttons if easier-to-use infotainment was the end result.

The overriding factor, though, is that the S60’s cabin is indeed a nice place to spend time, with supportive leather seats placed in an interior made of well-crafted materials. Every touchable surface feels exactly the way you want it to – there are no rough plastics or moments of, “well this could certainly be better.” The refinement found in the Volvo is simply soothing without appearing or feeling over-the-top. There are no big surprises inside the S60, and the end result is a cockpit that’s genuinely comfortable and pleasantly sedate.

A sedate interior may be well and fine for the S60, but we wish things were slightly more energetic under the hood. Our top-end T6 tester is powered by Volvo’s 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six, producing 300 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque, running to all four wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission. No manual option is available, and while we appreciate the addition of up-and-down gear selectors on the transmission stalk, a set of paddles would be welcomed for when we feel like swapping the cogs ourselves.

First-time S60 drivers will be quick to note the car’s power delivery isn’t as aggressive as, say, a BMW 335i or Mercedes-Benz C350, but if we look at the Volvo’s dynamics in a less sporting light, it’s a lovely package. The S60 isn’t extremely enthusiastic with its power delivery, mostly due to the fact that the six-speed autobox doesn’t like to hold gears all the way up to the 6,500 rpm redline, and when shifts are fired off, the transmission’s goal of smoothness means gears aren’t changed as quickly as you might like, even when using the +/- option on the shiftgate.

That sounds like a bad thing, but some people want a premium sport sedan to act less like a performance car and more like a proper luxury vehicle. In this regard, the Volvo is spot on with its more relaxed approache to performance, though don’t get us wrong, there’s still plenty of power and prowess to keep things interesting if pushed hard. Mid-range thrust is never lacking, with the highest amount of torque being delivered between 2,100 and 4,200 rpm, and off-the-line punch is perfectly adequate. Volvo claims that the S60 T6 AWD will sprint to 60 miles per hour in 5.8 seconds, meaning that if a snobby 3 Series driver pulls up at your side, the drag race will be pretty evenly matched. Stay easy on the throttle and you’ll have no problem hitting the EPA-estimated 26 miles per gallon on the highway. In fact, during our week of mostly enthusiastic driving, we averaged 22.4 mpg on a pretty even city/highway mix, which isn’t bad for a 3,900-pound vehicle with all-wheel drive.

Volvo’s splendid Haldex all-wheel-drive system keeps the car steady and stable through turns, even when you’re carrying a good dose of speed upon entry. And even though there’s a hefty front-end bias to the Haldex system, there’s neither noticeable understeer nor nose-heavy characteristics when dancing through the bends. Our test car’s 235/40-series Continental all-season rubber offered plenty of grip when needed, and while the S60 isn’t the best-handling sedan we’ve ever tested – an xDrive 3 Series will certainly teach the S60 a lesson in handling – we enjoyed the Volvo’s dynamics. It’s easy to drive smoothly, but still offers a dollop of fun when provoked.

Let’s be honest – premium sport sedan buyers who want the best option for driver engagement will always buy a BMW 335i or Audi A4. Volvo knows this, and that’s this approach to create something unique with the S60 really works. Instead of trying to be a Bimmer-beater, Volvo crafted an emminently handsome, luxurious sedan that offers plenty of driving enjoyment for the vast majority of sedan shoppers. People expect you to buy a 3 Series in this segment, but the Volvo’s more unique packaging works well for an automaker that’s trying to reinforce its one-of-a-kind image.

The price of entry for the S60 T6 AWD is $38,575, including $875 for destination and delivery, and with nearly all the optional trimmings, our test car rang in at a dear $47,675. That’s about what you’d pay for a similarly equipped 335i xDrive, and while the BMW is certainly the driver’s choice (in case we haven’t made that clear enough already), we actually prefer the S60’s interior refinement and unique style. If there are enough people in this world willing to sacrifice a bit of behind-the-wheel enthusiasm for a piece of slightly tangier pie (and we think there are), Volvo’s objective of creating something special with the S60 will be a recipe for success.

2010 Aston Martin V12 Vantage

The V12 Vantage RS concept is based on Aston Martin’s critically acclaimed V8 Vantage coupe, but the company’s design and engineering team have fully exploited the design flexibility of their unique VH architecture and the motor sport development of their 6.0 litre V12 engine to create a dramatic and production feasible concept car focussed on extreme performance and dynamics.

Although the 600bhp power output of the V12 Vantage RS concept will be the focus of attention, just as significant is the level of weight reduction achieved by Aston Martin’s engineering team. With a kerb weight of less than 1600kg, the RS concept underlines Aston Martin’s continued commitment to intelligent use of materials and weight reduction as a means of achieving improved efficiency and performance. In common with the recently launched DBS, the bonnet and trunk lid are moulded in carbon fibre and the concept also adopts motor sport-inspired carbon ceramic brake discs.

Aston Martin will present the most potent production sports car in the marque’s 95-year history at the Geneva motor show on 3 March. Based on the hugely successful V8 Vantage, the V12 Vantage will feature a 6.0-litre V12 engine producing 510 bhp (380 kW / 517 PS), and 570 Nm (420 lb ft) of torque with a top speed of 190 mph (305 km/h) and 0-62 mph (0-100 kp/h) time of 4.2 seconds.

The latest incarnation of the Vantage family has been designed to provide a unique character, appealing to different driver tastes and complementing the other models in the current Aston Martin line-up.

The original V12 Vantage concept was unveiled to guests at the opening of the Aston Martin Design Studio in December 2007. Continuing the marque’s impressive record of bringing concepts through to production, Aston Martin engineers have brought the V12 Vantage to market in an incredible 12 months.

Aston Martin Chief Executive Officer, Dr Ulrich Bez said: “This is the ultimate performance interpretation of the Vantage range, combining our most agile model with our most powerful engine. It represents the definitive driving package; providing spectacular performance to ensure a dynamically thrilling and everyday useable driving experience.

“The V12 Vantage has a unique character, one unlike our other cars. This will appeal to different people with different tastes, allowing more people to enjoy the Aston Martin experience.

“This also illustrates one of Aston Martin’s key strengths – the ability to act quickly and turn concepts and ideas into reality.”

Designed for the focused driver, every component of the V12 Vantage has been honed with pure driving enjoyment in mind. Benefitting from race-developed materials and components, and featuring lightweight carbon fibre; performance and agility have been tuned to perfection.

Visually enticing, the V12 Vantage expresses its performance potential through its purposeful stance created by enhanced aerodynamic and cooling aids optically widening the car, while retaining traditional understated Aston Martin design. Equally inviting, the cosseting interior permits the driver to extract maximum performance ability from the car while also enjoying customary levels of Aston Martin comfort on longer journeys. High levels of power and torque are available at all engine speeds making the V12 Vantage responsive and tractable in any driving situation.

The V12 Vantage will be built at Aston Martin’s global headquarters in Gaydon, Warwickshire joining the DBS, DB9 and V8 Vantage model lines which are built in the state-of-the-art production facility combining hi-tech manufacturing processes with traditional hand-craftsmanship. Production will be limited up to 1,000 examples over the life span of the car, making the V12 Vantage a truly exclusive driver’s car.

Deliveries of the V12 Vantage are expected to commence during quarter three 2009 with prices to be confirmed at the Geneva motor show.

2011 Aston Martin V8 Vantage N420 Roadster

2011 Aston Martin released the special-edition sportscar back in 2007 to commemorate the success of its Vantage N24 racer at the Nürburgring. It packed 400 horsepower, a series of suspension tweaks and some special cosmetic touches.

The 2011 N420’s sportscar powertrain is the standard Vantage affair, coming with the standard 420 horsepower V-8 engine. Successor to the special edition V8 Vantage N400 of 2007, the 2011 Aston Martin sportscar V8 Vantage N420 is based upon the standard 4.7-litre, 420bhp, 180mph V8 Vantage and is available as a Coupe or Roadster, and with a six-speed manual or optional Sportshift automated manual transmission.

The 2011 Vantage N420 sportscar draws inspiration from the company’s experiences at the Nürburgring 24-hour race. In the 2006 running of the annual Nürburgring endurance classic amongst a field of mostly motorsport homologated cars, Aston Martin entered a near-standard, road-registered V8 Vantage.

2011 Aston Martin sportscar used carbon fiber on various parts of the car to help drop the weight by 60 pounds, which while not a lot is still a step in the right direction. The suspension gets the Sports Package that upgrades the Vantage’s springs, shocks and anti-roll bars to give the car better road holding.

The 2011 N420 also features special 10-spoke alloy wheels finished in gloss black, black mesh grille inserts, a sport exhaust system, the Sports Pack suspension (which is merely optional on the regular Vantage) and a range of racing-inspired paint combinations. The N420 sportscar will be available as a coupe or a roadster with the choice of a manual or paddle-shift transmission.

The 2011 N420 sportscar will make its U.S. debut at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance in August. Orders may be placed starting this month, with deliveries to begin in the fourth quarter of 2010. Pricing starts at $133,350 for the coupe and $146,350 for the Roadster, less than $10K more than their non-N420 counterparts.

Images of the new Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class leaked on the internet

Being a loyal Mercedes-Benz fan, I was eagerly awaiting for the debut of the successor of the CLS-Class. My wait has been cut short by the recent images of the new Mercedes-Benz CLS Class which have been leaked on the internet. One look at the images of the four door coupe, and I was left mesmerized. As the pictures suggest, the new CLS has retained its predecessor’s unique profile, but is updated with design cues from the Shooting Break concept. The engines are expected to range from a new 3.5-liter direct-injection V6 all the way up to the 5.5-liter, twin-turbo V8 AMG model. Sure to be the ride of the future, this luxe coupe is truly a class apart.

Expect more updates on this beauty as and when Mercedes-Benz unveils this car officially.

1:10 scale Remote Control version of the Lamborghini Reventón unveiled

Most Lamborghini fans have to make do with small scale models of their favorite Lambo’s since they can’t afford the price of the full scale Lamborghini’s. If you are one such fan who has no qualms on settling for a miniature model of your favorite model, you had better pay attention to this. An officially licensed RC version of the Lamborghini Reventón has been unveiled. Built by De Agostini, the 1:10 model is an affordable option for those who couldn’t buy the $1.25 million Lamborghini Reventón. Boasting of a two-stroke 3cc petrol engine, a two-speed transmission, and permanent four-wheel drive, this remote controlled car is truly one of a kind. What is more, for optimum performance, the car has also been equipped with an independent suspension, hydraulic shocks, and disc brakes. Limited to 65 units only, this remote controlled car is definitely a must have for collectors.

The pricing information hasn’t been revealed yet, but we can assure you it’s going to be a lot cheaper than owning the full scale model.

2020 Lamborghini Minotauro concept: The envy of the future

Concept cars never cease to fascinate car enthusiasts. If you claim to be a Lambo fan than this latest concept creation is definitely for you. Andrei Avarvarii, a student at Milan’s Scuola Politecnica di Design, with assistance from Lamborghini’s design head Filippo Perini, designed this amazing electric 2020 Lamborghini Minotauro concept. A breathtaking beauty on wheels imagined for the year 2020, it mesmerizes you with both its looks and features. The concept creation would utilize four electric motors and split the power 30%/70% front to rear while a Li-Tec flat-cell battery out back and a KERS system in the front provide the power.

What is more, the absence of the powerful V-12 engine in this concept creation makes room for a third passenger. Keeping this in mind, the passenger’s door would be bigger in order to provide access to the back seat. But what are sure to appeal to every Lambo fan are the concept’s triangular intakes/exhausts that are not just visually pleasing but serve for battery cooling and act like the tubes of a subwoofer, channeling the sound of the electric motors, placed behind them.

A hi-tech creation, the owners would also be able to upload their own track ghosts to an online community. And if a real racetrack has been / is being covered, the GPS would record car placement / track time, allowing people worldwide to challenge an owner’s record.

Guess when it comes to concepts, sky is the limit for the designers.

Pininfarina X Concept Car is up for $1.35 million

After eBay, it’s now the turn of Jameslist to sell a version of the 1960s Italian concept car, the famed Pininfarina X, courtesy of the Aero Toy Store in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. The name for the car comes from it exceptional chassis configuration which spots an X shaped steering wheel pattern: one at the front, two in the middle, and one at back. Although it spots a standard43 hp 1100 cc Fiat engine, the exceptional aerodynamics helps the X hit high speeds with fairly less fuel. The concept will be sold at a staggering $1.35 million.

Bentley debuts the limited edition Continental Flying Star station wagon at Geneva Auto Show

Bentley fans visiting the Geneva Auto Show were in for a treat as the famous automaker unveiled yet another stunning beauty at this car expo. The Bentley beauty making her debut at this show was a two-door station wagon or “shooting brake” model christened, the Continental Flying Star. Built by Italian coachwork firm Touring Superleggera, this special edition creation is one breathtaking beauty. Based on either the Bentley Continental GTC with a 560 hp twin-turbo 6.0-liter W12 engine, or the GTC Speed with a 610 hp engine, only 20 examples will be built at a base price of about $800,000 each. Living up to its conferred titles “shooting brake” (for the ignorant few, this term originated with custom built two-door luxury estate cars altered for use by hunters and other sportsmen who require larger storage space), the car boasts of a spacious new compartment that features two foldable rear seats and a variable loading space.

A must have beauty for every Bentley enthusiast, this special edition creation is truly a class apart.

Iron man 2’s 2011 Audi R8 5.2 Spyder quattro V10 now on sale

After the 2011 Audi A8, the car giant is out with a new luxury car to grace your garage and this time it’s coming straight off the silver screen! The R8 Spyder 5.2 quattro V10 is all set to get out of the Iron Man 2 movie and hit US Showrooms. It comes with a 525-horsepower 5.2-liter V-10 engine that can go from zero to 60 mph in 4 seconds. The car can hit top speed of 195mph.The Spyder comes with an option of a choice of a six-speed manual or seven-speed R tronic gearbox.

A basic model would come to you around $161,000, picking the R tronic gearbox would up the bill to $170,000 plus taxes. But it’s worth your money as the interiors are crafted in a convertible style, the heat-resistant interiors ensure that the car is cooler by up to 68 degrees than normal.

YEE: Concept flying car for the future speedsters

Flying around the city in your very own flying car is no longer just a dream. With the advent of science and technology, a Jetsons-like world is now all set to become a reality. Reinforcing this faith is the latest concept creation from designers Zhu Wenxi, Lai Zexin, and Pan Jiazhi. The designers have dreamed up their version of a flying vehicle which they have dubbed the YEE. Made for white-collared men and ladies around the world who have the need to be relaxed at the same time as having excellent reliability and speed, the YEE will surely be the most favored mode of transport of the future. Small and compact, this vehicle will let you maneuver easily through the air traffic and reach your destination in a jiffy. The vehicle transforms into a flying air craft in just a few seconds (The front two wheels go sideways while the back two wheels turn outside).

A propeller in the back wheels allows for max usage of room. In ai9r the propellers function to aid the vehicle in its flying function while on land the propellers work as wheels. A truly amazing concept, this vehicle is sure to make you scream “YEE” in delight.

Images of revamped Terrafugia flying car released

The Terrafugia flying car was a dream machine for many, but its dorky design made quite a few stop short in their tracks. Realizing the qualms of the prospective buyers when it came to the flying machines design, the company got back to work on a cooler and recently released the first renderings of the much cooler looking production version. The images released at EAA AirVenture in Wisconsin show a vehicle with fully folded wings, headlights and the first glimpse at the simple, airbag-equipped interior. An improved design that is much better than its test run predecessor, the new cooler looking images of the Terrafugia are sure to add a number of names to the already long waiting list for this flying car.

To all those who said, “You can’t have your cake and eat it too”, it’s time to eat your hearts out. Thanks to Terrafugia, you can now park a flying car in your garage that looks just as cool as it sounds.

Limited edition scaled models of Ferrari memorabilia up for grabs

What can be an ideal gift for your car fanatic man? A 1:8 scale model of popular Ferrari cars of course! Up for grabs on the Ferrari shop online are some of the most sought after limited edition scaled models of famed Ferrari wheels and accessories, all crafted in carbon-fiber base. The models – along with a certificate of authenticity-include 99 models of the F10 winners driven by Alonso and Massa, 199 of the 599 GTO presented at the Beijing Motor Show and another 199 of the Spider 250 California.

Also on sale is a 1/4th scale version of Ferrari F10 Steering Wheel and the Nosecone/Front Wing.

MANSORY Vitesse Rose based on Bentley Continental GT Speed

Vitesse Rosé – the name says it all. On the one hand, Vitesse means velocity in French and therefore already the basic model of the Bentley Continental GT Speed is an epitome for swiftness. On the other hand, Rosé is the dominating colour of the luxury coupé which is only offered in a limited edition of three cars.

For already more than 20 years, the company MANSORY which is located in the village Brand in Bavaria stands for high-class tuning and is the top address when it comes to extravagant refinement of British luxury automobiles. The main focus are mainly visual modifications which enhance the dynamic character of the cars. The company owner, Kourosh Mansory already follows this trail with the newly designed Vitesse Rosé which now celebrates its world premiere at the Frankfurt Motor Show.

Extravagant eye-catcher in unsurpassable quality

The exclusive MANSORY aerodynamics package sets benchmarks in quality and appearance. On the one hand, the car body components made of PU-RIM perfectly integrate into the original design, but also render a significant dynamic style. Front- and rear apron in connection with the side skirts form a unit and do not only present a visual and colour-coordinated refinement. LED daylight running lights which are integrated in the front apron render additional passive safety and in combination with the carbon fibre bonnet they enhance the dynamic look of the two-door car. In addition, the component parts optimise the air duct over the car silhouette which renders positive effects on the handling. The necessary extra downforce can be attributed to the carbon rear lip which perfectly flows into the shape of the boot lid and prevents any troubles with the traction.

Top-class twelve-cylinder sound

The newly developed stainless steel exhaust system with two angular, overlapping chrome end pipes render a striking note to the tail and supply the twelve-cylinder with an earthy rumbling sound.

High-tech rims for best road holding

In order to draw level with the extra performance, MANSORY developed a light alloy wheel measuring 10.5 x 21 inches. By using weight-saving aluminium alloys and the therefore resulting reduction of the unsprung masses, not only the braking distance, but also the handling is significantly improved. In co-operation with Dunlop, high-performance wheels type Dunlop Sport Maxx GT measuring 285/30 ZR 21 were developed. Moreover, the newly designed control unit for air suspension which allows lowering the sports car?s centre of gravity in different levels, renders additional dynamic high-lights.

Premium and extensive interior programme

MANSORY achieves the perfect symbiosis between dynamic functionality and luxurious ambience. Premium materials are chosen for the interior and enhance the comfort. The leather is processed by expert hand and is extremely resilient and still extraordinarily soft. With its individual grain and the manually applied decorative stitching, everything around the newly designed airbag sports steering wheel renders an extravagant atmosphere. The pedals are made of aluminium and in combination with the carbon fibre applications the exclusive interior of the Vitesse Rosé comes to perfection.

MANSORY CYRUS based on Aston Martin DBS

Already for more than 20 years, the Bavarian company MANSORY has been developing and producing fascinating car modifications for demanding customers all over the world. The latest creation of the refinement manufactory is called MANSORY CYRUS and can optionally enhance Aston Martin DB9 or DBS automobiles. Perfect processing and elaborate technology are the hallmarks of this exclusively tuned car which is limited to only 15 pieces. A coilover suspension provides the best road holding and emphasises the striking rims in XXL. The refinement is perfected by an exclusive interior programme.

Haute Couture on wheels

Tailor-made processing and perfect surfaces confirm the superb quality of the MANSORY carbon outfit with the eye-catching gold-texture. The CYRUS aerodynamics components are made of extremely light „prepreg autoclav carbon“ and do not only include wing extensions for the front and back, but also side skirt attachments and linings. At the front axle, a newly designed front skirt with enlarged air inlets provides the optimal ventilation for the twelve-cylinder aggregate. The CYRUS front is visually enhanced with the newly designed carbon bonnet. With its two slotted “power domes” additional fresh air is directed to the front motor. Also at the tail, the refining engineers have invented something extraordinary in order to perfect the visual appearance of the Aston Martin. The newly designed rear skirt with the integrated diffuser emphasises the superior look and provides space for four stainless steel end pipes of the sonorous sport exhaust system.

Design wheels in XXL

The optimal road grip is provided by the 9×20 and 10,5×21 inch rims in combination with Dunlop Sport Maxx tyres measuring 255/30ZR20 at the front and 295/25ZR21 at the back. The design of the ultra-light forged wheel thereby unites sportiness and elegance and perfectly fills out the wheel houses. In addition, an optimally adjusted coilover suspension lowers the centre of gravity of this noble sports car and renders perfect road holding characteristics.

Luxurious atmosphere in the MANSORY super sports car

The CYRUS driver will take his seat in a elaborately refined interior which is nothing short of the exterior. The entire modification includes pedals and foot rests made of aluminium as well as exquisite door sills and head rests with embroidered CYRUS logos. MANSORY enhances the interior with a set of tailor-made carbon parts for the dash board and centre console. Generally, the noble interior is only lined with best quality materials. Decoration stitches by expert hand on the dash board and the seats render visual high-lights and perfect the significantly beautiful overall impression of the complete leather equipment. The ergonomically re-designed steering wheel with airbag lies especially well in the hand.