2010 Opel Flextreme GT/E Concept with E-REV Drive System

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Think of the Opel Flextreme GT/E concept as a bigger Chevrolet Volt (or Opel Ampera if you're European). The idea behind this concept, which will debut at the Geneva Motor Show (March 4 - 14, 2010), is to show how the Volt's extended-range electric vehicle drivetrain can be used in a larger vehicle, in this case a mid-size five-door hatchback. And it will boost the company's credentials as a leader in green technologies, offering expressive design with efficient environmental performance - and engineered with German precision.

2010 Opel Flextreme GT/E Concept with E-REV Drive System

In Opel's strategy for achieving more independence from fossil fuels, electricity plays a key role. The 4.7-meter long Opel Flextreme GT/E Concept illustrates how extended-range electric vehicle (E-REV) technology can be plugged into large or mid-size vehicles, as well as compact cars such as the upcoming Opel Ampera. Opel calls this strategy e-mobility unlimited: adapting the highly efficient E-REV drive system - which removes the limitations of battery-only power - to vehicles across all market segments. To enjoy zero CO2 driving emissions Opel-style, the Flextreme GT/E concept shows that size doesn't matter.

2010 Opel Flextreme GT/E Concept with E-REV Drive System

The purposeful design also enables the Opel Flextreme GT/E Concept to achieve a projected drag co-efficient of just 0.22, which helps it reach a 200 km/h-plus top speed as well as conserve energy and extend its driving range. Stand-out visual features include a low and wide stance, wing-shaped lights front and rear, a distinctive nose and grille, floating C-pillars and muscular, sculptured bodywork.

2010 Opel Flextreme GT/E Concept with E-REV Drive System

The clean, frontal styling features a low hood line and an extended nose section, which is clasped by wing-shaped, signature LED headlamps. These are deeply carved into the front fenders and across the hood line. The new trapezoidal grille execution is slim but bold. The prominent wing-shaped chrome bar carries a large Opel emblem, which doubles as a socket for charging the Opel Flextreme GT/E Concept's battery pack. The upper section of the grille is used to admit cooling air, the lower portion being covered by a translucent panel. The absence of additional air intakes allows a low frontal area for aerodynamic efficiency and also enables the Opel Flextreme GT/E Concept to meet future pedestrian protection requirements.

2010 Opel Flextreme GT/E Concept with E-REV Drive System

In profile, the Opel Flextreme GT/E Concept is distinguished by innovative, stubbed C-pillars. This floating design allows the glasshouse to be extended rearwards under the arching roofline, emphasizing the flowing lines of the side body. The car's dynamic character is further underlined by a fresh expression of Opel's signature blade motif, now a swooping swage line from the base of the C-pillar into the lower front fender. The translucency of the fixed glass panel in the center of the roof is adaptive, allowing sunlight to warm the interior in the cold of winter, but darkening for coolness in summer. A duct at the rear edge of the roof is for additional cooling of the battery and electronic components.

2010 Opel Flextreme GT/E Concept with E-REV Drive System

Integral to the Opel Flextreme GT/E Concept's expressive looks is the efficiency of the design execution. The small frontal area, low roof height (1308 mm) and a flat, enclosed underbody all enable the car to cleave the air with a minimum of disturbance. The 21-inch alloy wheels are relatively narrow, to reduce wind resistance, and fitted with 195/45, low rolling resistance tires. Clear, flush-mounted trim inserts also minimize air turbulence.

2010 Opel Flextreme GT/E Concept with E-REV Drive System

The Opel Flextreme GT/E Concept also explores the potential for active shape shifting. At speeds above 50 km/h, a vertical panel extends along the body from the air extraction slot behind each rear wheel-arch. These 350 mm-long side spoilers guide high-speed airflow around the rear corners of the car, further reducing the amount of turbulence.

2010 Opel Flextreme GT/E Concept with E-REV Drive System

Mass reduction measures for the body include the use of lightweight, carbon composite outer panels, polycarbonate window glazing and aluminum alloy structural components. Compared to conventional materials, these offer a 40 percent weight saving which further contributes to reduced energy consumption and an increased driving range.

The efficient concept also includes GM's ground-breaking E-REV drive system, already developed for the Opel Ampera. The Opel Flextreme GT/E Concept shows the versatility of this technology by displaying it in a larger, mid-size vehicle format.

2010 Opel Flextreme GT/E Concept with E-REV Drive System

Despite its greater size and a maximum speed of more than 200 kilometers per hour, the Opel Flextreme GT/E Concept is projected to offer performance similar to that of the Ampera: a battery-powered driving range of up to 60 km - with zero CO2 tailpipe emissions - and a total range of more than 500 km. Average fuel consumption is estimated at 1.6 l/100 km, with CO2 emissions of less than 40 g/km. Unlike a hybrid vehicle, the wheels of the Opel Flextreme GT/E Concept are powered at all times by electricity. For typical journeys up to 60 km, energy is supplied by a T-shaped lithium-ion battery pack located under the floor and rear seat.

2010 Opel Flextreme GT/E Concept with E-REV Drive System

However, unlike a battery-only electric vehicle, the Opel Flextreme GT/E Concept eliminates any possibility of range anxiety through fear of being stranded without power. The small gasoline engine/generator is seamlessly engaged to provide electricity whenever the battery's supply becomes depleted. In this mode, the driving range is extended to more than 500 km, until the plug-in battery pack can be recharged or the car is refueled. The motor in the electric drive unit delivers a substantial 370 Nm of instant torque, giving lively performance and projected zero to 100 km/h acceleration in less than nine seconds.

2010 Opel Flextreme GT/E Concept with E-REV Drive System

The Flextreme GT/E concept is a further step in Opel's unfolding strategy for the electrification of the automobile, which includes a wide portfolio of products using battery, extended-range, hybrid and fuel cell technologies.

Post Title → 2010 Opel Flextreme GT/E Concept with E-REV Drive System

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Nissan Skyline

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2010 Audi A1

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Lancer Evo X

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Fiat 500 Abarth

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Bentley AERO ACE Sports Car Concept Next-Gen Speed VI

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The Bentley Aero Ace Speed VI is the brainchild of auto designer Gabriel Tam and has been inspired by the original Speed 6 driven to victory by the Bentley Boys of the ’20s at Le Mans. The next-generation Speed VI is an overtly sporting vehicle with the raw aggression of a pure blood racer, while retaining the refined elegance of past Bentleys.

Bentley AERO ACE Electric Sports Car Concept Next-Gen Speed VI

The design was inspired to signify the raw aggression of a sporting vehicle, while paying close attention to the aerodynamic properties of each element of the vehicle. The adjustable aerofoil / spoiler feature double wishbone suspension to maximize the efficiency.

Bentley AERO ACE Electric Sports Car Concept Next-Gen Speed VI

Close attention during the designing period to refine the aerodynamic properties of the vehicle has resulted in enhanced efficiency and increased speed. Additionally, a double wishbone suspension has been incorporated within the adjustable spoiler to further better its efficiency.

Bentley AERO ACE Electric Sports Car Concept Next-Gen Speed VI

The twin rear heat exhaust-ducts of this zero-emission concept car are fed by the air intake used to keep electric motors cool. Electric motors are located towards the rear of the vehicle, while the battery cells are located towards the front in an even arrangement to balance the weight. The electric motor cooling system features air intake and incorporates diffusers that help air flow to create down-force.

 

 

Bentley AERO ACE Electric Sports Car Concept Next-Gen Speed VI

The wheels are semi enclosed that improves aerodynamics, while the 1+1 seating arrangement offers focused driving experience. Also, the diffusers aid air flow in this vehicle creates the down-force, the battery pack is equally distributed and the vehicle has a 1+1 seating layout for finest weight distribution.

Bentley AERO ACE Electric Sports Car Concept Next-Gen Speed VI 

Post Title → Bentley AERO ACE Sports Car Concept Next-Gen Speed VI

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Cadillac XTS Platinum Concept (2010)

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Cadillac unveiled the Cadillac XTS Platinum Concept at the 2010 North American International Auto Show, suggesting a new paradigm for the luxury sedan of the future. The concept showcases Cadillac's emerging top-of-the-line Platinum series of models, emphasizing new expressions of luxury and technological features, including a plug-in hybrid propulsion system.

The Cadillac XTS Platinum Concept was designed from the inside out, re-imagining the luxury sedan as a personal headquarters, built for efficiency, luxury and connectivity. The concept introduces a new approach to in-car electronics that improves the form and function of the car's entertainment, navigation and information systems.

"The Cadillac XTS Platinum concept is the next expression of Cadillac's Art and Science execution philosophy, reflecting our drive to deliver the latest innovations in the most artful manner," said Bryan Nesbitt, Cadillac general manager. "We envisioned this concept as an automotive personal headquarters, using advanced technology to enable new levels of connectivity and luxury."

The Cadillac XTS Platinum Concept uses Cadillac's 3.6L V-6 Direct Injection gas engine, paired with a plug-in hybrid system. The plug-in technology enables the battery to fully charge from a standard electrical outlet, enabling pure electric propulsion in many driving situations, especially urban commutes in which fuel efficiency may double that of a conventional hybrid.

Traditional luxury sedans were defined by elegant interiors and Cadillac XTS Platinum Concept propels that formula into the future. It delivers new approaches to luxury within a design that combines fine craftsmanship with customer-driven innovation. Like the current Platinum Edition products, such as Escalade Platinum and the STS and DTS Platinum sedans, the interior is based on hand cut-and-sewn materials. The Cadillac XTS Platinum Concept injects more contemporary forms and themes into the interior design, including the use of Organic Light-Emitting Diode (O-LED) displays in place of traditional gauges and screens.

The concept previews a new integration philosophy guiding the development of future models with respect to in-car electronics. The intent is to progress Cadillac's intuitive in-car electronics systems, typified by the deployable touch-screen navigation system that has been highly acclaimed in the brand's CTS and SRX product lines. The Cadillac XTS Platinum Concept previews this strategy via the minimization of traditional buttons and switches. Designers blended the display screens into a flowing instrument panel. They call it a "dead front" design, because the panels appear black until the car is turned on and the screens illuminate. The instrument panel itself reflects the Cadillac XTS Platinum's other focus - uncompromising luxury and attention to detail on the interior.

"The Platinum distinction in Cadillac means the fullest extent of luxury and technology and we've tried to reach even further with this concept," said Clay Dean, Cadillac design director. "Just as the technology pushes the boundaries of what a Cadillac can offer, so do the details that make the Cadillac XTS Platinum Concept an uncompromising experience."

The interior takes inspiration from nature, specifically the intricate layers of petals that combine to form an orchid. Cadillac designers translated that into a layered and detailed interior. Light cream is the cabin's primary color and is contrasted with darker elements, such as the steering wheel and an overhead console motif that runs the length of interior's roof. The console is made of a richly finished wood and houses lighting features.

Premium leather seats include a new style of automotive suede, with a laser-etched pattern. The patterned material adorns the center sections of the seats and accents the door trim. Thoughtfully detailed stitching is used throughout the interior, including the seats, instrument panel and door panels. Passengers in the spacious rear compartment of the Cadillac XTS Platinum Concept also have access to the car's connectivity feature, along with a range of infotainment choices.

"We never lost sight of the fact that a large luxury sedan needs to be spacious and accommodating," said Dean. "Passengers will find generous headroom, legroom and knee space, along with the technology elements that make the drive more productive."

A new proportion
The Cadillac XTS Platinum Concept has a distinctive proportion that transcends the traditional aesthetic of luxury sedans and carries the brand's Art and Science design in a more progressive manner. The unique proportion supports the "inside out" design priority, while creating a sleek profile that complements the car's advanced technology elements and necessary aerodynamics.

"The Cadillac XTS Platinum Concept design artfully conveys its focus on functionality through technology," said Dean. "It is the antithesis of the conventional three-box sedan, suggesting the active evolution of Cadillac's design language."

A sweeping profile culminates in a short, high deck lid that meets the Cadillac XTS Platinum Concept's aerodynamic needs - including a rear spoiler mounted on the deck lid, incorporating the center high-mounted stop lamp. A high, sloping beltline gestures the vehicle forward, suggesting motion, while the fenders flare outward wrapping tightly around 20-inch wheels and tires. The wheel-to-body proportion was carefully tailored to visually communicate the car's all-wheel-drive chassis.

Like the interior, the exterior elements are precisely tailored and elegantly detailed. Brushed billet aluminum trim is used selectively and the 20-inch, 11-spoke wheels feature a brushed aluminum face accented with bright inserts within the spokes. The wheels are wrapped with special Bridgestone tires that were created specifically for the Cadillac XTS Platinum Concept.

Signature elements essential to Cadillac's Art and Science design language include vertical headlamp and taillamps, with integrated light pipes and richly detailed lighting components. The headlamps feature light-emitting diode technology for bright illumination that requires less energy, as well as Cadillac's Adaptive Forward Lighting technology, which turns the headlamps with the direction of the front wheels for greater visibility in turns.

Purposeful and efficient performance
The Cadillac XTS Platinum concept's plug-in hybrid electric propulsion system (PHEV) builds on the experience Cadillac has gained with the Escalade Hybrid and Escalade Platinum Hybrid flagship models. The plug-in capability boosts the car's electric-only driving capability, offering additional battery energy capacity and enabling it to recharge from a standard external electrical outlet. The key benefit of external plug-in recharging is that in many situations - such as overnight parking - the battery can fully recharge in roughly five hours while the car is not in use. The plug-in system operates at maximum efficiency when operating on power the battery has drawn from the electric grid. In some conditions, such as urban commutes, drivers can experience efficiency that doubles that of conventional hybrids.

At higher speeds or when conditions demand it, such as brisk acceleration, a combination of engine power and electric power or engine power only, propels the vehicle. The combination of the Direct Injection V-6 engine and the PHEV system featuring fully electric variable drive provides a spirited driving experience. The system provides an estimated 350 horsepower (260 kW) and 295 lb.-ft. of torque (400 Nm).

Magnetic Ride Control (MRC) enables the Cadillac XTS Platinum Concept to deliver superior road-holding performance while maintaining luxury car composure in "regular" driving conditions. It uses shocks controlled by advanced magneto-rheological technology, rather than mechanical valves, to greatly accelerate response time and precision.

MRC uses electronic sensors at all four wheels to literally "read the road" every millisecond, making constant adjustments to damping to create virtually instantaneous and extremely precise control of body motions.

An advanced, specially calibrated all-wheel-drive system ensures optimal traction in wet and slippery conditions, and helps deliver maximum traction while cornering. Four-wheel disc brakes, with four-channel ABS, StabiliTrak stability control and full-function traction control complete the drivetrain details.

"The Cadillac XTS Platinum Concept was designed to deliver an engaging driving experience without compromising the functional features, space and comfort customers seek in a luxury car," said Nesbitt. "It is a new vision of luxury that uses advanced technology to deliver functionality efficiently and rewardingly."

CADILLAC XTS PLATINUM CONCEPT SPECIFICATIONS
Vehicle type: luxury sedan concept
Wheelbase: 111.7" / 2837 mm
Length: 203.5" / 5170 mm
Width: 74.8" / 1900 mm
Height: 59.1" / 1500 mm
Track:
front: 62.6" / 1589 mm
rear: 62.8" / 1594 mm
Powertrain: plug-in hybrid system with 3.6L Direct Injection gas engine (with variable valve timing); lithium ion battery
Suspension: four-wheel independent with Magnetic Ride Control.
Brakes: four-wheel disc with electric park brake system
Wheels: 20"
Estimated power: 350 hp (260 kW) / 295 lb.-ft. (400 Nm)

Post Title → Cadillac XTS Platinum Concept (2010)

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Chevrolet CORVETTE Racing at Sebring 2010

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Back in August when General Motors introduced the all-new GT2 class Corvette C6.R, it ran downsized 6.0-liter version of the 7.0-liter V8 from the long-dominant GT1 car. At the launch, Corvette Racing program manager Doug Fehan told us the 6.0-liter was just an interim engine. With revised GT rules on tap for 2010, GM was already planning a brand-new engine for its race Vette.

Chevrolet CORVETTE Racing at Sebring 2010

Unlike the 6.0/7.0, which is a ground-up race engine that only shares basic architectural dimensions with the production small block, the 2010 C6.R's V8 is a new 5.5-liter unit that will indeed be derived from the production engine found in roadgoing Corvettes. In fact, the 5.5-liter race engine will be built at GM's Performance Build Center alongside ZR1 and Z06 V8s.

Chevrolet CORVETTE Racing at Sebring 2010

Fehan has confirmed that the 5.5 is running on the dyno and will make its race debut at the 12 Hours of Sebring in March. We don't have any additional details on the new engine yet, although we were told earlier that it is based on the next-generation production small-block, which we expect to see in the Corvette soon

Chevrolet CORVETTE Racing at Sebring 2010

Corvette Racing is preparing for the season-opening round of the 2010 American Le Mans Series, the Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring, to be held in Sebring, Fla., on March 20. Forty years ago, Sebring set the stage for some highly competitive racing among Cobras, Ferraris, and Corvettes. 

Chevrolet CORVETTE Racing at Sebring 2010

Difficult weather and trying mechanical situations added a challenging dimension to an exciting event. In light of recent C5-R successes and the impending start of yet another season of American Le Mans Series competition, a look back at the effort put forth by the privateer Corvette camp lends amazing perspective.

Chevrolet CORVETTE Racing at Sebring 2010

Corvette Racing will compete in the GT (formerly GT2) class against entries representing Porsche, Ferrari, BMW, Jaguar, and Ford. Corvette Racing drivers Johnny O'Connell, Jan Magnussen, and Antonio Garcia are testing the No. 3 Compuware Corvette C6.R. Oliver Gavin, Olivier Beretta, and Emmanuel Collard are testing the No. 4 Compuware Corvette C6.R.

[Source: Chevrolet]

Chevrolet CORVETTE Racing at Sebring 2010

Post Title → Chevrolet CORVETTE Racing at Sebring 2010

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The Luxury of Mini Van and SUV

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Mercedes Benz R-Class is a combination of the luxury saloon concepts, a sport station, MPV and SUV. It is MPV because it has six seats, SUV because it uses permanent 4 wheel drive, plus the DSR and off-road function that helps drivers handle the sharp rise. It also is Luxury Saloon because of the material used for the interior of R class and the comfort, the design took the specifications from the concept of a luxury sedan. R500 Series powered by V8 5000cc engine, while the R350 powered by V6 3500cc engine. R500 produces 306 hp at 5600 rpm, while the R350 produces 272 hp at 6000 rpm. The torque of R500 is 460 Nm at 2700 to 4750 rpm, while the R350 produces 350 Nm at 2400-5000 rpm. The R500 acceleration from 0-100km / hour is 7 seconds, while the R350 are able to accelerate from 0-100 km / hour in 8.4 seconds.

The maximum speed of the two series is not too significant, with the maximum speed of R500 is 245 km / hour and R350 is 230 km / hour. To accommodate the speed, R500 uses 18-inch rims (5 twin-spokes) while the R350 uses 17-inch rims (7 twin-spokes).

This car is equipped with an electronic lever 7g-tronic (automatic transmission lever which can reach seven speeds). Just like other series of Mercedes-Benz, lighting system of R-class also has auto adjust feature. The system will adjust the lighting that issued by the received light pressure. Mercedes Benz R-Class also has a rain sensor where the wiper will automatically turn on when rain and be adjusted to the rhythm and the amount of rainfall.

The air conditioning systems used by the R-Class is Thermotronic or multi-zone system that allows the temperature on left, right and rear can be set automatically or manually. This system works accordance with the solar sensor that can detect the direction and heat of the sunlight. For the headlights, Mercedes Benz R-Class uses Bi-Xenon light, the best of lighting system at present.

The Bi-Xenon light has three functions: Active Light System, when the speed is between 40-70 km / hour, and when the car will turn then the headlights will follow the path so that the lighting will achieve the maximum lighting. Likewise when the car is up or down, the headlights will adjust automatically. There's also the Cornering Light which functions to provide the further warning to the vehicles or people around the car if the car wants to spin (not the sign or the turning light). The other safety systems are ABS, ESP, BAS, and alarms to prevent from the theft. For the R500 series, there is another feature that is keyless-Go, a feature that allows the driver to start the engine without removing the key from the bag.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Derry_Dharmawan

Post Title → The Luxury of Mini Van and SUV

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