Dynamic world debut : McLaren MP4-12C GT3

2011 McLaren MP4-12C GT3

The first McLaren car built for racing outside of Formula 1 since the McLaren F1 GTR will make its public dynamic world debut at the 2011 Goodwood Festival of Speed, held from 30 June-03 July. The new GT3 car, based on McLaren’s MP4-12C high-performance road car, will appear in its revised form, honed during a recent intense period of development.


New components designed to optimise the car’s aerodynamic performance include a front radiator, which increases the maximum ambient temperature at which the car can run, along with a new gearbox cooler mounted on the rear Aerodeck. These features complete an aerodynamics package incorporating a new front splitter, door blade, rear wing, diffuser and louvres in the front fenders, all of which is produced entirely from carbon fibre by McLaren Racing, following design input from McLaren Automotive.

The 12C GT3 is being developed by the recently established McLaren GT. Led by McLaren Group CEO Martin Whitmarsh and CRS Racing Team Principal Andrew Kirkaldy, McLaren GT is spending the 2011 race season developing the 12C GT3 before delivering 20 cars to privateer teams for GT3 racing in Europe in 2012.

Like the 12C road car, the MP4-12C GT3 features a unique one-piece carbon fibre chassis, the ‘MonoCell’. McLaren introduced a carbon fibre monocoque to Formula 1 in 1981, and the 12C GT3 will feature several other Formula 1-derived technologies. The 12C GT3 will be supplied with the same steering wheel design used by Lewis Hamilton in his MP4-24 Formula 1 car. Formula 1 suppliers past and present including Akebono, Mobil 1, McLaren Electronic Systems, Ricardo and Michelin are working with McLaren GT to create a race car specification technologically superior to the GT3 competition in 2012.

Since the 12C GT3 was unveiled to the media and prospective team owners in May 2011, McLaren GT has tested its new car at a mixture of proving grounds and FIA approved circuits across Europe. This development phase is an opportunity for McLaren GT to optimise the technical specification and durability of the 12C GT3.

Andrew Kirkaldy from McLaren GT said: “The reaction to the 12C GT3 at the circuits we have visited has been phenomenal. I can’t wait to see how it goes down at Goodwood this weekend.

“CRS Racing was clearly excited to be confirmed as partner in this project as we were only too aware of McLaren’s short, but unbelievable GT history with the F1. But the anticipation amongst circuit owners and race teams to McLaren’s return to GT racing has still surprised us. I’m delighted that we have the opportunity to drive the 12C GT3 up the hill at Goodwood and raise the interest even further.”

Confirmed drivers of the GT3 car for the 2011 Goodwood Festival of Speed weekend are Andrew Kirkaldy, 2010 Vodafone McLaren Mercedes test driver Oliver Turvey, and McLaren Automotive Chief Test Driver Chris Goodwin.

McLaren MP4-12C GT3 Technical Specification

Width (mm)	1995mm
Height (mm)	1145mm
Wheelbase (mm)	2670mm
Fuel tank capacity	120 litres
Chassis/body	McLaren carbon fibre MonoCell with aluminum front and rear frames and bespoke carbon body panels
Aerodynamics	Front and rear diffuser, front splitter, dive planes and adjustable rear wing.
Transmission	6 speed sequential using actuation via steering wheel mounted paddles Limited slip differential with a range of ramps and adjustable pre-load. Wet sump Sintered clutch hydraulically operated Driveshafts with tripod joints
Engine type	V8 twin turbo McLaren M838T
Engine capacity	3.8L
Bore x Stroke	93 x 69.9
Max. Engine speed	Limited to 7500rpm
Cylinder block	Cast aluminium , 90 deg V angle, dry sump scavenge, Nikasil coated liners
Crankshaft	Forged steel flat plane
Pistons	Forged aluminium
Conrods	Forged steel
Cylinder head	Cast aluminium with plastic composite cam covers, inlet & exhaust variable cam timing
Valvetrain	32V with 40 deg variable cam timing on intake & exhaust. Low mass with sliding contact end pivoted pinger followers, single variable rate springs and hollow cast chilled iron camshafts
Intake system	Two water/air charge air coolers. Plastic composite plenum.
Exhaust system	Cast stainless steel exhaust manifold with compact MHI fixed geometry turbo chargers. 970 deg C turbine inlet temperature.
Fuel system	Returnless fuel rail with twin fuel tank mounted pumps and twin spray injectors
Engine management	MESL TAG400 ECU & CIU 100 Interfacing with Bosch ABS and Shiftec control units
Wiring harness	Modular installation: Engine, chassis, fuel cell
Lubrication	MOBIL1: engine and transmission
Cooling	Air/water heat exchangers for engine water and charge air cooling combined with water/oil heat exchangers for engine, transmission & PAS.
Front axle	SKF integrated axles with handed single wheel retaining nut
Rear axle	SKF integrated axles with handed single wheel retaining nut
Front suspension	Double wishbone adjustable for ride height camber and toe
Rear suspension	Double wishbone adjustable for ride height camber and toe
Dampers	Coil over Multimatic dampers with DSSV technology with independent bump and rebound adjustment
Front brake system	Akebono 6 piston monoblock caliper 378Ø x 36mm Iron ventilated disc
Rear brake system	Akebono 4 piston monoblock caliper 355Ø x 32mm iron ventilated disc
Steering	Electro-hydraulic PAS
Wheels	Forged Aluminium Front 12” x 18” Rear 13” x 18” MESL TPS system compatible
Cockpit electronics	Multifunction steering wheel with integrated driver display Central switch panel with systems display screen
Steering wheel	Derived from MP4-24 Formula 1 wheel retaining integrated driver display, paddle shift and switches

Images : 2011 McLaren MP4-12C GT3

[Source : McLAREN]

The BMW X3 by AC Schnitzer : Even more individual driving pleasure, unique and unmistakeable

2011 BMW X3 by AC Schnitzer

The new BMW X3, which has been available from dealers since autumn 2010, is uniquely versatile. Now BMW tuning specialist AC Schnitzer has developed an extensive range of
accessories to make the second generation SUV stand out even more.


Just the AC Schnitzer performance upgrade from 184 to 218 HP in the X3 xDrive20d ensures that the vehicle stands out from the crowd. And in the near future, the Aachen-based specialist will be offering a performance upgrade for the X3 xDrive30d too. With or without power upgrade, the engine bay styling with AC Schnitzer logo is available for all models.

Even at a standstill, the X3 by AC Schnitzer shows off its assets - and not only when the bonnet is open. For the 6-cylinder petrol models 2.8i and 3.5i, an AC Schnitzer sports exhaust made of stainless steel is currently in development. This improves response and provides that special sonorous sound. The chromed "Racing" tailpipe trim sets the finishing touch to the exhaust system. For purely visual enhancement, this tailpipe trim is also available as a stand-alone accessory for diesel variants.

Individualists want to fly high, and to ensure that the agile X3 by AC Schnitzer remains firmly planted on the ground, the Aachen engineers have come up with a suspension spring kit for the optimum combination of sports performance and driving comfort.

The aerodynamic kit for the new X3 includes a striking front spoiler, the rear roof spoiler and the AC Schnitzer protective film for the rear skirt.

The AC Schnitzer sports airbag steering wheel, currently in development, provides that sports car flair and safety in the interior. As well as the sports steering wheel, further unique "inner values" of the X3 by AC Schnitzer catch the eye. Sporting accents are set by the AC Schnitzer aluminium gear knobs in anodized silver/chrome or "Black Line“/chrome, or with digital gear display, and the "Black Line“ aluminium cover for the BMW-specific i-Drive system controller.

Further impressive design elements such as the AC Schnitzer aluminium pedal set, an illuminated leather gear knob, and the AC Schnitzer velours foot mats, make the fully fitted X3 totally unmistakeable.

Such a special appearance must include the right wheels and tyres. This was also the view of the Aachen-based tuning specialists, who have given the X3 with BiColor a choice of Type VIII forged racing rims in 22 inch, or Type VII racing rims in BiColor or silver in 22 inch. One-piece rims of Type VI (BiColor), Type VIII (BiColor) and Type IV (BiColor or Silver) are also available in sizes 18, 19 or 20 inch. Forged alloy wheels Type V in 20 inch are of course also part of the extensive range.

The AC Schnitzer range for the new BMW X3 leaves BMW fans with only the problem of choice, and thus extends the unique versatility of the vehicle with even more individual driving pleasure.

Images : The BMW X3 by AC Schnitzer

[Source : ACS]

Scion Announces Pricing for 2012 tC and tC Release Series 7.0 Models

2012 SCION 2012 tC Release Series 7.0

TORRANCE, Calif., June 30, 2011 -- Scion announced today that its first release series for the second generation tC sports coupe, the 2012 tC Release Series 7.0 (tC RS 7.0), will be available at dealer showrooms this summer. Scion is also pleased to announce that the 2012 tC sports coupe will come standard with a new Pioneer™ audio system that features Bluetooth^® hands-free, Bluetooth^® streaming audio and HD Radio™ technology.

2012 tC Release Series 7.0

The 2012 tC Release Series 7.0 comes exclusively in High Voltage yellow exterior paint with contrasting black side view mirrors and black 18-inch alloy wheels. The tC’s aggressive exterior are further stylized with a TRD body kit that includes front and rear lower valences and side skirts. The front bumper incorporates a honeycomb lower grille that is unique to this Release Series.

High Voltage yellow accents make their way into the tC’s interior with color-tuned black and yellow seat fabric, leather wrapped steering wheel with yellow stitching and an individually numbered badge. The tC RS 7.0 features Smart Key, a convenient keyless entry system that unlocks the doors with a touch of the door handle. The system also includes a red TRD push-button start allowing the car to be started with the push of a button. The use of the Smart Key system is a first for Scion.

Scion will only build 2,200 units of the tC RS 7.0. The limited edition model will carry a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of $20,905 and $21,905 when equipped with a manual and automatic transmission respectively. The MSRP does not include a delivery, processing and handling fee of $720.

The launch of the tC RS 7.0 will be launched with a new advertising campaign, starring a very lighthearted Zeus on his Mount Olympus throne, who describes himself as the God of Awesome -- and then creates the High Voltage tC using his legendary lightning bolt. With the help of a lovely Muse, Zeus has a great time driving the tC and highlighting its features. See the :30 spot at: http://www.scion.com/rstc/ or http://www.youtube.com/v/Sa1XbhJDN8k.

All-New Standard Pioneer™ Audio System for 2012

The new tC truly focuses on youth with its all-new standard AM/FM/CD/HD/USB 300-watt maximum output Pioneer™ audio system. New standard features for 2012 include Bluetooth^® connectivity that allows both hands-free phone connection and streaming audio capability as well as HD Radio™ technology Streaming audio allows compatible phone or personal media devices to pair with the audio system and listen to music through the vehicles sound system. The audio system also features an organic electroluminescent (OEL) screen with a personalized welcome screen, iPod^®/USB connectivity, Advanced Sound Retriever (ASR), and a subwoofer RCA output. The USB port and universal auxiliary (AUX) port are located on the center console that allows users to listen to their portable music collection through the tC’s eight Pioneer speakers.

Connectivity is achieved by simply plugging the portable music player, including iPod^® and iPhone^®, into the USB or AUX port. The head unit’s screen displays track number, track name and artist information from select USB units. The audio system provides outstanding sound quality through the car’s stereo system and constant power to select iPods^®. Music is controlled through the head unit and the steering wheel audio control buttons for radio, CD and certain USB devices. iPod^® users can also use an alphabetical speed search to find a specific artist or album.

The ASR function restores a wide, deep and rich quality to MP3/WMA/AAC sound. Through the subwoofer RCA output, tC owners can add an external amp to drive one or more subwoofers. For easy operation, the system’s multi selector allows for easy control of the head unit. Unique to the standard Pioneer audio system is the customizable welcome screen that also lets users to create a personal message of up to 16 characters.

Available Pioneer Premium Audio System

The optional 340-watt maximum output Pioneer™ Premium audio system has the same features as the standard Pioneer audio, but is enhanced with a 5.8-inch LCD touch-screen display, features iTunes^® tagging and Pandora^® internet radio connected through iPhone^® and six RCA outputs to add external amplifiers.

Both the standard and premium head units retain key Scion audio system features such as Scion Sound Processing^® (SSP) where listeners can choose from three pre-set equalizer settings, satellite radio compatibility and MP3 and WMA capability. In addition both units adjust the volume control based on driving speed.

The base MSRP for the 2012 tC equipped with a six-speed manual transmission is $18,575, and $19,575 when equipped with a six-speed automatic transmission.

The delivery, processing and handling (DPH) fee for all Scion models is $720 and is not included in the MSRP. DPH fee for vehicles distributed by Southeast Toyota (SET) and Gulf States Toyota (GST) may vary.

The tC will also come standard with Scion Service Boost, a complimentary plan covering normal factory-scheduled maintenance and 24-hour roadside assistance for two years or 25,000 miles, whichever comes first.

{source : TOYOTA-SCION]

BMW is back in Hollywood with Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol

BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept

MUNICH/LOS ANGELES : June 30, 2011 - Back in Hollywood. BMW is pleased to announce their participation in the upcoming Paramount Pictures release “Mission: Impossible - Ghost Protocol” as the film’s main automotive partner.

High performance with fewer emissions is the name of the game: One of the BMW vehicles provided for Tom Cruise´s next film is the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept car. It has been recognized as having the most sophisticated technology and the most striking design among the current concept electric supercars. In a few years the BMW i8, which was inspired by the BMW Vision Efficient Dynamics concept vehicle, will enter series production.

“We are thrilled to be involved again in another Hollywood Blockbuster,” said Ian Robertson, BMW AG Board Member for Sales and Marketing. “The BMW Group leads the way in developing future mobility with a focus on sustainability. One great example is the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept car which will be presented in the film. With its futuristic design and large glass surfaces, the car offers a fascinating perspective on the future of sheer driving pleasure – in combination with maximum efficiency. Also with BMW ConnectedDrive technology, it is the perfect car for Ethan Hunt to outsmart his pursuers through narrow streets and busy city traffic.”

Having provided vehicles for outstanding film projects, TV productions, etc. for more than 75 years, entertainment marketing is firmly established as an important building block for the BMW Group’s long-term image and product communications.

“Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol”, directed by Brad Bird, is scheduled for release mid of December 2011.

[Source : BMW]