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Chevy Volt Pricing: How Does it Stack Up?

Mark Quint — Wed, 28 Jul 2010 16:49:44 +0000

After Chevy announced the Volt’s pricing yesterday, we decided to put the numbers in some context. Below are the purchase and lease prices for the Volt and its upcoming fuel-sipping challenger, the Nissan Leaf —though they are very different cars indeed. We’ve thrown in the standby yardstick, the Toyota Prius, for good measure. We’ll steer clear of the running-cost debate for now, rather than open a box even Pandora wouldn’t touch. Full MSRP Tax Credit Lease Terms Total Payments 2011 Chevrolet Volt $41,000 $7500 (Federal), some states offer additional credits $350/month, 36 months, $2500 down $15,100 2011 Nissan Leaf $32,780 $7500 (Federal), some states offer additional credits $349/month, 36 months, $1999 down $14,809 2010 Toyota Prius* $22,150–28,845 Sales and use tax exemption in Washington state $219/month, 36 months, $2299 down $10,183 *Pricing is promotional to clear 2010 inventory; 2011 prices aren’t yet available Being electric cars—mostly—the Volt and Leaf can plug into your 120-volt home outlet. There’s no extra equipment needed for that, though charging times will be longer than a New Yorker article. A faster charging system may be a necessity, especially for the Leaf, as Nissan reports that a 220-volt outlet’s juice will take 8 hours to charge the Leaf fully. Chevy, on the other hand, is claiming that power from a normal 120-volt socket will be sufficient to charge the Volt overnight. Considering that both the Leaf and the Volt are asking for money that, before the tax credit, could put you in a BMW instead, they’re fairly well equipped. The Nissan Leaf comes standard with “advanced” navigation, phone integration (and no doubt the requisite phone apps that will let drivers turn the air conditioning on from inside their house), Bluetooth, satellite radio, stability control, traction control, and six airbags. If you’re an airbag-oriented shopper, however, Chevy will tell you that the Volt has eight of then, as well as stability control, a touch-screen navigation system, a Bose stereo, and five years of so much OnStar there’s another press release for it. Both the Volt and the Leaf will come with generous warranties to ease concerns about long-term battery life. Chevy is going to offer 8 years/100,000 miles on the Volt’s battery, 3 years bumper-to-bumper, and 5 years on the Volt’s gas engine. Nissan just announced that it’s also offering 8 years/100,000 miles of warranty on the Leaf’s battery; the rest of the EV’s warranty hasn’t been announced yet. We are, of course, excited to test both the Volt and the Leaf fully, but in the meantime we’re glad that the slow drip of information on these cars has become more of a steady flow. Related posts: GM Claims Chevy Volt is On Track Despite Cost Hurdles GM Expects Chevy Volt to Achieve 230 mpg City Pricing Announced for 2011 Chevy Silverado HD, GMC Sierra HD

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Chevy Volt Pricing: How Does it Stack Up?

2011 Ford Explorer – Official Photos and Info

Mark Quint — Mon, 26 Jul 2010 03:24:19 +0000

The Explorer—arguably America’s preeminent body-on-frame SUV—is reborn as a unibody crossover. (And there’s a four-cylinder engine!) At the press preview of the 2011 Explorer, Ford executive Mark Fields said the plan was to reinvent the vehicle “for an SUV market that we still think is very vibrant.” As we’ve known for some time, that reinvention most notably involved abandoning the Explorer’s traditional body-on-frame roots in favor of unibody crossover underpinnings. As a result, one of America’s most recognizable SUV icons now is based on the Taurus’s front-wheel-drive D platform. So even while the name’s the same, the vehicle to which it’s attached is radically different. Keep Reading: 2011 Ford Explorer – Official Photos and Info Related posts: 2011 Ford Edge and Edge Sport – Official Photos and Info 2011 Ford Explorer – Spied 2011 Ford C-Max – Official Photos and Info

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2011 Ford Explorer – Official Photos and Info

Watch Land Rover Unveil the New Compact Range Rover on Thursday at 3:30 p.m.

Jake Holmes — Wed, 30 Jun 2010 17:47:28 +0000

The wait is almost over: Land Rover will unveil its all-new compact Range Rover tomorrow. The new model will be very similar to the Land Rover LRX concept , and there likely will be two-wheel-drive and diesel-hybrid versions in an effort to reduce fuel consumption. Stay tuned for full details. Watch below for a live stream of the press conference beginning Thursday, July 1, at 3:30 p.m. Eastern, and check back afterward for more information on the newest Land Rover model. Related posts: Land Rover Will Build Two-Wheel-Drive Version of Compact Range Rover, Hybrid Models Coming 2010 Land Rover Range Rover and Range Rover Supercharged – First Drive Review 2010 Land Rover Range Rover Sport HSE / Range Rover Sport Supercharged – First Drive Review

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Watch Land Rover Unveil the New Compact Range Rover on Thursday at 3:30 p.m.

Aston Martin V12 Vantage Launch Video

admin — Mon, 07 Jun 2010 16:54:34 +0000

We like a tease about just as much as the next guy. Aston Martin does it well with a new video of the V12 Vantage that was recently confirmed for North America at a price tag of $179,995 for the standard V12 Vantage and $194,995 for the murdered out Carbon Black model. The new Aston Martin V12 Vantage features a 510hp and 420 lb-ft of torque V12 that can propel the sexy beast from a standstill to 60mph in about 4.1 seconds and top out just over 190mph. Enjoy the video below! PRESS RELEASE Aston Martin Confirms V12 Vantage Pricing for the Americas Irvine, 3rd June 2010 — Aston Martin confirms pricing in the Americas for the eagerly awaited V12 Vantage, Aston Martin’s most exhilarating sports car. The V12 Vantage will start from $179,995, with the Carbon Black Special Edition priced at $194,995. Based on the hugely successful V8 Vantage, the V12 Vantage features a 6.0 litre V12 engine producing 510 bhp, and 420 lb ft (570 Nm) of torque with a top speed of 190 mph and a 0-60 mph time of 4.1 seconds. Offered with a six-speed manual transmission, the V12 Vantage is first and foremost a driver’s car, inviting and rewarding the driver’s full involvement. Aston Martin’s most powerful engine has been combined with its most agile model, complete with carbon ceramic brakes and revised suspension to create a truly potent and dynamic sports car. The Carbon Black Special Edition adds a typically understated flair to V12 Vantage. On the exterior, the car features a bespoke Carbon Black metallic paint with a subtle metallic twist to create a deep, rich patina; painstakingly created through a hand- painting process taking 50 man-hours. The iconic Aston Martin side strake has been fashioned from carbon fibre backed by a black mesh and complimented with gloss black, 10-spoke diamond-turned alloy wheels. A bright finished grill and front parking sensors (normally an option) complete the exterior detailing. Inside, owners are greeted by swathes of Obsidian Black leather highlighted with a contrast silver coarse stitch hand-stitched by Aston Martin craftspeople. Also featured are a Piano Black facia trim, center stack and center console, anodised black tread plates and unique sill plaques build on the carbon theme. The normally optional Aston Martin 700w Premium Audio System is delivered as standard. The V12 Vantage is hand-built at Aston Martin’s global headquarters in Gaydon, UK, joining the DBS, DB9 and V8 Vantage model lines which are also built in the state-of-the-art production facility combining hi-tech manufacturing processes with traditional hand-craftsmanship. The V12 Vantage is available to order now from the Aston Martin dealer network across the Americas. Customer deliveries will commence in quarter four 2010. [source: Aston Martin]

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Aston Martin V12 Vantage Launch Video

Cops Ticket Drivers For Ignoring Creepy Pedo-Bunny [Car Crime]

Car and Driver — Tue, 13 Apr 2010 20:00:00 +0000

Police in Glendale, California sent an officer dressed as a scary pedo-bunny into traffic and ticketed anyone not yielding to it/him. If we saw it/him on the road we’d hit the gas too. [ Glendale News Press via Traffic ] More »

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Cops Ticket Drivers For Ignoring Creepy Pedo-Bunny [Car Crime]

VIDEO: BMW "M1" Spied Hauling Heavy Ass At Nurburgring [Spy Photos]

Erin Riches — Tue, 13 Apr 2010 19:30:00 +0000

We’ve seen this exact BMW “M1″ and its disguised carbon roof and huge fenders before, but we haven’t seen it in motion on video. Bridge to Gantry spied it testing on the Nurburgring. Insert scalded pregnant cat metaphor here. More »

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VIDEO: BMW "M1" Spied Hauling Heavy Ass At Nurburgring [Spy Photos]

2011 Chevrolet Camaro V6 Gets 312 Horsepower

Jordan Brown — Fri, 09 Apr 2010 15:35:32 +0000

What will it be, the 2011 Camaro V6 RS with 312hp, 29mpg hwy and a price of around $23,000… or will it be the Camaro SS with 426hp, 24mpg hwy and a price of around $34,000? Decisions decisions! Chevrolet has upped the horsepower in the new 2011 Camaro V6 models from 304hp to 312hp. That may not be much on paper but to an automotive enthusiast that means a lot. It could even mean saving a considerable amount of money. Although you won’t be able to sport the SS badge on your Camaro, you still get the futuristic but yet classy styling that turns heads regardless of what is under the hood. The battles of American muscle never stop. Chevy has answered Ford’s bump in horsepower in the V6 Mustang by giving the V6 Camaro 312hp. This battle could last for years folks as it has in the past. So what is your choice? V6 or V8? Full Press release for the new 2011 Chevrolet Camaro V6 with 312hp below! [source: Chevrolet] Press Release Chevrolet supports Camaro’s consumer momentum with exciting updates for 2011 312 horsepower for V6, expanded availability of Synergy color and heads-up display new for 2011 The 2010 model year proved to be a very successful and exciting year for the segment-leading Chevrolet Camaro. For the 2011 model year, Chevrolet looks to expand the car’s popularity among consumers with the introduction of additional features. “We are pleased with Camaro’s success in the market during its first year of production,” said Jim Campbell, U.S. Vice President, Chevrolet Marketing. “The 2010 model year has been a banner year for us, and we plan to build on this momentum.” Horsepower increase for V6 engine The 2011 Camaro V-6 engine completed SAE certification testing and is now officially rated at 312 horsepower at 6500 rpm and 278 lb-ft of torque at 5100 rpm. This rating is eight horsepower higher than the previous year and also marks an increase in torque from the 2010 rating of 273 lb-ft. “The 304 horsepower in the 2010 Camaro was actually a conservative rating on our end,” said Tom Sutter, GM V-6 chief engineer. “But we knew already that this award-winning engine produced at least the amount of power we stated, but now we’ve gone the extra step in certifying the engine for this application and have verified an additional 8 horsepower.” The 3.6-liter V-6 with variable valve timing (VVT) and direct injection employs four independent cam phasers to change the timing of valve operation as operating conditions such as rpm and engine load vary. The result is linear delivery of torque, with near-peak levels over a broad rpm range, and high specific output (maximum horsepower per liter of displacement) supporting overall engine response and drivability. When combined, direct-injection and VVT enable an unmatched combination of power, efficiency and low-emissions in gasoline V-6 engines. SAE certification is a voluntary power and torque certification procedure developed by the SAE Engine Test Code committee. This procedure (J2723) ensures fair, accurate ratings for horsepower and torque by allowing manufacturers to certify their engines through third-party witness testing. Chevrolet was the vehicle brand to begin using the procedure. Synergy color to be made available across the lineup Earlier this year, Chevrolet introduced the Camaro Synergy Special Edition which is based off the concept displayed at the 2009 SEMA show in Las Vegas. The Synergy Special Edition is limited to a 1LT model, but the Synergy Green exterior color will be made available on all trim levels for a limited run during the 2011 model year. “When we looked at the overwhelmingly positive reaction we received from SEMA attendees and consumers on Synergy Green, making the color available across the board was pretty much a no-brainer,” said John Fitzpatrick, Camaro Marketing Manager. Customers will be able to order this color for a manufacturer suggested retail price of $325. Head-Up Display Already available on the Chevrolet Corvette, the 2011 Camaro will become the second Chevrolet vehicle to offer the popular Head-Up Display. Camaro’s Head-Up Display will include: Vehicle speed Tachometer Compass Outside air temperature Manual Paddle Shift Gear Indicator (if equipped) OnStar Turn-by-Turn Audio functions Phone information Selected gear Turn signal indicators High-beam indicator signal Vehicle messages “Head-Up Display has been a very frequent customer request” said Cheryl Pilcher, Camaro Product Manager. “People familiar with the HUD system simply love it. It truly enables drivers to keep their eyes on the road.” Production of the 2011 Chevrolet Camaro begins on June 7, 2010.

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2011 Chevrolet Camaro V6 Gets 312 Horsepower

Preview: 2012 McLaren MP4-12C

Mark Quint — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 14:40:05 +0000

If you are any type of car enthusiast then you remember the McLaren F1. When someone mentions “McLaren” you immediately reference it with the F1 (or the Mercedes McLaren SLR) as you associate that moniker with pure performance and one of the most sought after supercars in the world. Now McLaren wants to rekindle that same feeling introducing the McLaren MP4-12C which has been officially launched at the McLaren technology center in the UK during a press conference. The McLaren automotive team has a heavy-hitting history in the automotive performance racing world known as Formula One. They have won 25% of all of the F1 races ever taken place dating back to 1966. In direct competition with competitors such as Ferrari, Porsche and Lamborghini, McLaren came out of the holeshot with the first production road car with a carbon fiber chassis. Now the MP4-12C carries on that tradition with the heart of its soul starting with a 600hp and 443 pound-feet or torque Twin-Turbo Charged M838T V8 sitting low in the carbon chassis. Total mass of the MP4-12C is carefully calculated to 2,870 pounds on purpose by meticulously engineering every bit of the vehicle from the aluminum suspension parts to the hexagonal aluminum wiring harness conductors. No single cracks in the carbon structures during 40mph crash tests proves that no compromises were made when it comes to safety in the MP4-12C. Performance, that’s rather a given factor handed down from generations of McLaren engineers developing their own engine this time for the MP4-12C. Transmitting the power efficiently to the ground is a 7-speed Seamless Shift dual clutch gearbox (SSG) with a Pre-Cog (pre-conditioning gearbox function) allowing the driver to pull the shift pedals back lightly to prepare the box for the next shift. Aerodynamics were carefully tweeked to allow maximum down force planting the MP4-12C to the ground coupled with an advanced air-brake to assist the carbon ceramic braking system. Look for new highlights (check back here) and press information to be released after the press conference in the UK today.

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Preview: 2012 McLaren MP4-12C

On video: McLaren MP4-12C

Scott Mosher — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 11:27:00 +0000

Filed under: Supercars , Celebrities , Marketing/Advertising , Videos , UK , News It isn’t every car company that can call on two Formula One world champions to promote the launch of a new model, but with McLaren basing the success of the MP4-12C on the strength of their race heritage it was inevitable that its high profile, all-English driver pairing would be lending a little glamour to the supercar’s official unveiling. It goes without saying that Button and Hamilton adored their employer’s new road car (for a less biased opinion read Will Powell’s blog from the press conference) but at least the video gives us the opportunity to see and hear the MP4-12C in action. While plenty of question marks remain over the choices the British manufacturer has made in building their first road car since the peerless F1, no one doubts the quality of the MP4’s engineering or the technical prowess of the team behind it. If the note of that bespoke V8 engine is anything to go by the tame-by-comparison McLaren will be some car. Permalink | Email this | Comments

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On video: McLaren MP4-12C

2011 Lamborghini Gallardo 570-4 Superleggera Debuts in Geneva

admin — Wed, 03 Mar 2010 15:08:42 +0000

One common formula that most automotive enthusiasts look for in a performance car is light weight and lots of power. Combine the two and the rest should all fall into place in making the ultimate sports or super car. That is pretty much the same formula Lamborghini used with creating the new 2011 Gallardo 570-4 Superleggera. Weighing in at 3,153 lbs. (2,954 lbs dry weight) and powered by a 530 horsepower 5.2-liter V10 delivered through all 4-wheels, the Superleggera means business. The innovation and advanced technology put into the new Gallardo Superleggera does not stop with its engine. Light-weight carbon fiber bits, 19-inch forged aluminum wheels and an advanced all-wheel-drive system make it possible for the Superleggera to jump from 0 to 62mph in 3.4 seconds and reach a top speed of 202 mph. Check out the press release of the 2011 Lamborghini Gallardo 570-4 Superleggera. I assure you, this is much more than a glorified “go-faster’ Audi. [source: Lamborghini] Press Release Lamborghini Gallardo LP 570-4 Superleggera Even more dynamic, lighter, more powerful and stunning – the Lamborghini Gallardo LP 570-4 Superleggera is the new top model in the Gallardo line- up. Its evocative “superlight” badge refers to a driving machine of true sporting character and describes a high-performance and lean automotive athlete. The Superleggera makes its entrance to continue the success of its predecessor, launched in 2007, of which Lamborghini produced and sold no less than 618 in just one year. Compared with the already lean Gallardo LP 560-4, the weight of the Gallardo Superleggera has been trimmed by 70 kilograms (154 lb). The super sportscar from Sant’Agata Bolognese boasts a dry weight of no more than 1340 kilograms (2954 lb) – the lightest road-going model in Lamborghini’s range, and a new arrival in one of the most exclusive market niche segments. One key factor is the exterior and interior components made from carbon- fiber. Carbon-fiber is ideal for the manufacture of sportscars as its use allows for weight reduction and improved mechanical features. The car’s performance is thus enhanced thanks to a better weight-to-power ratio and reduced total mass, which means that CO2 emissions are also lower. Lamborghini has been at the forefront in this material’s application for many years, and now the brand is extending its leadership even further. The V10 power unit with 5.2 liters (317,6 cu in) of displacement generates 419 kW (570 CV*) in the Gallardo Superleggera. This puts the weight-to- power ratio of the new top model at only 2.35 kilograms (5.18 lb) per CV and guarantees breathtaking performance. The Gallardo LP 570-4 Superleggera handles the dash from zero to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 3.4 seconds and flies past the 200 km/h (124 mph) mark only 10.2 seconds later, ultimately reaching 325 km/h (202 mph). The engine with “Iniezione Diretta Stratificata” gasoline direct injection also boasts an impressive degree of efficiency. Its fuel consumption and CO2 emissions have been reduced by 20,5 percent compared to the previous model. The Gallardo Superleggera is an uncompromising driving machine. Its running gear, with its mighty braking system, has a dedicated and exceptionally precise set-up, while its 19-inch wheels, Pirelli P Zero Corsa, clad in Pirelli sports rubber, are extremely light. The Lamborghini Gallardo LP 570-4 Superleggera brings a whole new meaning to the term “super sportscar”. Design and aerodynamics The beauty of power The elegance of every Lamborghini rests on both its extreme power and precise functionality. The Gallardo LP 570-4 Superleggera’s bodyshell is sculptured and completely free from stylistic additions. Dimensions define the contours of a dynamic wedge – 4.39 meters (172,7 in) long, 1.90 meters (74,8 in) wide, but only 1.17 meters (45,9 in) high. Exterior modifications are all directed at increasing aerodynamic effects. Working closely with wind tunnel experts, the designers from Lamborghini’s Centro Stile remodeled the front bumper – three-dimensional, deeply recessed elements form trapezoidal frames for the large air intakes. Together with the V-shaped, sharply defined nose and the LED daytime running lights, the black elements give the front end a razor-sharp look, reminiscent of Lamborghini’s top model. The new design increases the supply of cooling air and improves the downforce on the front axle. The modifications to the fully-covered underbody, which include new sill elements and a redesigned diffuser incorporating four large tailpipes, help to achieve better aerodynamic results. The Gallardo Superleggera sports a small rear spoiler as standard. A big rear spoiler is available as an option. The bodyshell Intelligent lightweight engineering The model on which the Gallardo LP 570-4 Superleggera is based, the Gallardo LP 560-4, is already a prime example of Lamborghini’s lightweight engineering philosophy, with its dry weight of 1410 kilograms (3108.5 lb). Its bodyshell is made from aluminum, with moulded node elements and extruded parts forming an extremely stiff framework into which the aluminum panels are integrated. The spaceframe structure is impact-resistant and forms the basis for the super sportscar’s precise handling. Against this background, the task of reducing the weight by a further 70 kilograms (154 lb) presented a huge challenge to Lamborghini engineers – the target figure, a weight-to-power ratio of 2.35 kilograms (5.18 lb) per CV, sets a new best among the competition. Lamborghini engineers handled the task as they usually do – with hi-tech competence and aesthetic flair. The rear windshield and side windows are made from robust and resistant polycarbonate. The engine cover also includes a polycarbonate window, beneath which the V10 engine is displayed like a technical work of art. The long cover section runs from the roof to the rear of the vehicle and is made from carbon-fiber. Engineers also selected carbon-fiber for the rear spoiler, sills, diffuser, parts of the underbody paneling and the fine exterior mirror casings. With its minimal weight and extremely high rigidity, carbon-fiber is the ideal material for a super sportscar. As far back as the 1980s, Lamborghini was already gathering experience in this field with the Countach. Today, some parts of the Murciélago’s structure are made from carbon-fiber. In order to secure this leading position even further, the brand from Sant’Agata Bolognese established a center of excellence for carbon-fiber materials, where specialists are developing components, working with efficient manufacturing technologies. Lamborghini’s carbon-fiber strategy is further proven by its foundation of the “Automobili Lamborghini Advanced Composite Structures Laboratory” (ACSL) at the University of Washington in Seattle, USA. Lamborghini provides support to the facility and its long-term, co-operative research work in the fields of aeronautics and astronautics, together with the composite materials’ application within the automotive sector. Alongside the University of Washington, aircraft company Boeing is also among Lamborghini’s partners. The aircraft manufacturer commands enormous expertise in the field of composite materials. With the new Type 787 Dreamliner, Boeing has developed the world’s first commercial aircraft built entirely from carbon- fibre. Thanks to its superior characteristics, it consumes around 20 percent less fuel than a conventional aeroplane. The interior and the use of carbon-fiber Altogether, carbon-fiber components make up 40 (88 lb) of the 70 kilograms (154 lb) saved on the Gallardo Superleggera. In the interior, too, engineers aimed to reduce weight as much as possible. The center tunnel cover, the door panels and the surround of the e-gear automated manual transmission lever are made from carbon-fiber. The high-end material is also used for the sports seats’ shells. They make a significant contribution to the overall weight reduction. Just like the rest of the cockpit, the sports seats are clad in lightweight Alcantara instead of leather. At Lamborghini, weight reduction is in no way synonymous with sacrifice – the Gallardo LP 570-4 Superleggera is still equipped with air conditioning and electric powered windows as standard. Lamborghini has built on this strength – the interior is crafted with passionate attention to the tiniest detail; high quality materials indulge both visually and sensually. The interior, including roof and mats, retains the Lamborghini Gallardo’s black finish. As a contrasting color for elements such as seat trims and stitching, customers can choose among green, yellow, orange and two shades of gray. They match exterior paint finishes in Verde Ithaca, Giallo Midas, Arancio Borealis, Grigio Telesto, Nero Noctis and Bianco Monocerus. The engine 10.2 seconds from zero to 200 km/h In the Gallardo LP 570-4 Superleggera, LP stands for “longitudinale posteriore” and refers to the orientation of the V10 engine – which is mounted longitudinally behind the driver, just like every Lamborghini engine. The number 570 refers to the maximum power output in CV, which equates to 419 kW and is available at 8,000 rpm. Equally impressive is the pulling power – the torque curve peaks at 540 Nm (398,3 ft lbs) at 6,500 rpm. The increase of 7 kW (10 CV) is the result of the new dedicated engine management strategy. The V10 has a displacement of 5204 cm3 and achieves a specific output of 80.5 kW (109.6 CV) per liter. Special features on this long-stroke engine with an aluminum crankcase include dry sump lubrication and a cylinder angle of 90 degrees. Both solutions lower the center of gravity, thus improving the handling dynamics. To ensure an ideal combustion chamber fill, the engine has an adjustable intake manifold and continuous control of the chain-driven camshafts. The crankshaft is conceived as a dual-plane crank – the connecting rods of opposing pistons share one bearing. This configuration delivers alternating ignition intervals of 54 and 90 degrees; a unique sequence that is the reason for the compelling, racing car-like sound of the V10. As the revs rise, resounding bass notes are overlaid with razor sharp harmonics. The powerful V10, combined with the model’s weight reduction, gives the Gallardo Superleggera LP 570-4 breathtaking performance. The car accelerates zero to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) in just 3,4 seconds, 0 to 200 km/h (0-124 mph) in 10,2 seconds – then continues relentlessly to its top speed of 325 km/h (202 mph). The Gallardo Superleggera is also considerably more efficient – compared with its predecessor, its fuel consumption in the EU driving cycle is reduced by 3,5 liters per 100 kilometer (0,9 gal), or 20,5 percent, to 13,5 liters/100 km (16 mpg). This improvement is partly due to the “Iniezione Diretta Stratificata” gasoline direct injection, which injects fuel into the combustion chambers at pressures of up to 100 bar. The tumbling mix cools the combustion chambers, which enables a very high compression ratio of 12.5:1 which, in turn, increases efficiency. Power transmission Traction without compromise The Gallardo LP 570-4 Superleggera comes with the e-gear transmission operated via steering wheel paddles, as standard. The automated system with electronic management shifts through its six gears extremely smoothly and far more quickly than could be achieved by human reflexes. The e-gear control unit has three operating modes, two of which available in automatic. The “Thrust mode” delivers maximum off-the-line performance and is programmed to manage starting revs of around 5000 rpm with minimal wheel slip. Every single kilometer in the new Superleggera is utterly thrilling – not least because of the relentless traction in practically every situation. This is largely attributable to the four driven wheels, as indicated by the number 4 in the model name. The permanent all-wheel drive integrates a central viscous coupling and a 45 percent limited slip differential on the rear axle. In normal circumstances, the power delivered by the V10 is channeled with a ratio of 30:70 to the front and rear axles. The weight distribution of the superlight Gallardo is 43/57 percent front/rear. In 1993, the Diablo VT was the first Italian super sportscar with an all-wheel drive set-up, and Lamborghini has been steadily consolidating its leadership ever since. In fact, thanks to the car’s superior traction, Lamborghini drivers can accelerate earlier out of a bend than drivers of rear-wheel drive cars. The running gear Even firmer, even more precise The new Gallardo Superleggera is a highly-concentrated driving machine – it thrills with breathtaking cornering speeds and fast, immediate feedback. Its handling is always precise, stable and predictable. The running gear layout is derived directly from Lamborghini’s motorsport experience. The suspension is aluminum double wishbones. The precise rack and pinion steering keeps the driver very closely connected with the road. The shock absorbers are extremely firm, and the anti-roll bars and suspension mounts have been further reinforced: these features enable the running gear to reach its full dynamic potential. No other model in the Gallardo range is as close to a race car as this one. The development of the Superleggera was heavily influenced by experiences gained from the world’s fastest single-brand race series, the Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo. Another special feature of the Gallardo Superleggera is the wheels. The 19- inch units are aluminum forged and are therefore extremely lightweight – saving 13 kilograms (28.6 lb). The wheel bolts are made from titanium and are also incredibly light and rigid. The tires are 235/35 ZR19 at the front and 295/30 ZR19 at the rear and come from the Pirelli P Zero Corsa series. Developed specifically for the new top model in the Gallardo range, they are closely related to pure race rubber. Behind the huge wheels are brakes that serve to deliver uncompromising stopping power and are managed by the standard-fit ESP stability control system. The front wheels are served by aluminum eight-piston calipers, with four-piston units at the rear. The ventilated brake discs have a diameter of 365 and 356 millimeters (ø 14.37 x 1.34 in and 14.02 x 1.26 in) respectively. As an optional extra, Lamborghini can fit extremely fade- resistant and lightweight discs made from carbon-fiber ceramic with six pistons at the front. The front ceramic discs have a diameter of 380 millimeters (ø 15 x 1.5 in). Equipment Hi-tech for road and track Alongside its specialized carbon-fiber lightweight components, the Lamborghini Gallardo LP 570-4 Superleggera is delivered ex-works with an array of other high-end features. Highlights include the e-gear transmission – a manual gearbox is also available at no additional cost – the dedicated set-up, the Pirelli sports tires and the sports seats. Alcantara upholstery and a hand-stitched steering wheel also set the interior ambiance. The range of special equipment is particularly sporty. It includes carbon- fiber ceramic brake discs, four-point seat belts, fire extinguisher and a steel roll cage. Visual impact can be further increased by a rear spoiler and the engine bay for the engine compartment – both from carbon-fiber – as well as colored brake calipers. For the interior, Lamborghini offers special floor mats and leather steering wheels, a storage package and an alarm system. An additional carbon-fiber package includes center console and instrument panel trim, the parking brake handle, parts of the steering wheel and the door handles. A LED light package illuminates the engine compartment, the interior, and the entry area. Additional features of special equipment increase comfort, such as the multimedia navigation system, the lifting system which raises the front of the car to enable driving over obstacles, a remote control for opening garage doors and a rear view camera mounted beneath the rear spoiler. Customers who want to personalize their Gallardo LP 570-4 Superleggera, can use Lamborghini’s wide-ranging options of the “Ad Personam” individualization program.

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2011 Lamborghini Gallardo 570-4 Superleggera Debuts in Geneva