Bentley is preparing to build a 4x4 SUV, the new CEO Wolfgang Durheimer confirmed tonight. Speaking at a select dinner in Crewe, the Bentley boss said the luxury car maker would build a crossover SUV as a priority.
But in a revealing address, Durheimer also spelled out plans for diesel Bentleys, hybrid Bentleys and a return to the race track for Britain's famous luxury car marque.
Bentley SUV: project BY736
CAR understands the Bentley 4x4 already has a codename: BY736. It will be related to the modular architecture of the next-generation Audi Q7/VW Touareg/Porsche Cayenne - a lightweight matrix, which is designed to trim 200-400kg from the bulk of today's SUV.
Durheimer confirmed that future Bentleys would feature both diesel and hybrid technologies. We'd say the new Bentley 4x4 would be as good a place as any to start the new powertrain innovation.
Durheimer on Bentley's SUV
'I am a believer of SUVs in different markets,' said Durheimer, who was previously Porsche's R&D director who worked on the launch of the Cayenne. 'If Bentley were able to sell an SUV with the same level of craftsmanship as a Continental or Mulsanne, we could have an interesting success on our hands.
'I believe our version of the Cayenne could become our biggest selling vehicle... With an SUV, Porsche doubled in size.'
Durheimer is still working on the business case, but go-ahead is likely from Wolfsburg in 2011. He said from conception to launch would take around three years.
Although he refused to rule out a precise sales target with a big-selling SUV added to the range, he admitted the Volkswagen group wanted to push Bentley sales beyond its existing, pre-recession record of 10,000 a year. He even claimed that 30,000 Bentleys a year wouldn't devalue the brand.
What will the Bentley 4x4 look like?
Thanks to the aluminium spaceframe construction, Bentley's SUV can look quite different to its mainland European brethren. A five-door shooting brake is how insiders describe the 4x4 - a luxurious yet sporty four- or five-seater which features all available mod cons from air suspension to a complete set of driver assistance systems.
The Bentley crossover will be priced higher than the Cayenne or Range Rover. Project BY736 will be a coupe-like soft-roader will be much better at scoring street cred points than at making room for a third row of seats. Imagine our artist's impression with a dash more sporting style, and you're not far off.
The engineering story
Engineers at the VW group confirm the proposed Bentley 4x4 would be based around the MLB Evo matrix. The latest group architecture is so efficient, it would share around 60-75% of its parts with partner off-roaders by VW, Porsche and Audi.
Fixed points include the wheel diameter, the suspension geometry complete with steering assembly and brake system, the crash performance (front/rear/side) complete with airbags and seatbelts, the electronic platform and the drivetrains. Variables within a given bracket are wheelbase, height, length, width, track, overhangs and the exterior/interior design.
What will power Bentley's SUV crossover?
CAR understands a plug-in hybrid assembly will be available, mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. The 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 borrowed from the 2012 Conti GT looks like the logical base unit for BY736.
Diesel is a dead cert. Durheimer admitted the biofuel experiment by Bentley had been a mistake, although an interesting detour. No further E85 development will take place, the company instead investing in the group's diesel and hybrid tech.
Although a more highly tuned 375bhp edition of the 4.2-litre V8 TDI should offer plenty of go and grunt, an EU6-rated V12 TDI would be a more natural fit for Bentley, which is becoming the VW group's centre of excellence for 12-cylinder engines, Durheimer revealed. The uprated direct-injection twin-turbo W12 is also there for the taking, although it would have little appeal in Europe.
[Source : http://www.carmagazine.co.uk/Secret-new-cars/Search-Results/Spyshots/Bentley-SUV-2014---confirmed-by-CEO/]
The new ABT Q3 - Kempten commitment to maximum urban sportiness
|Thursday, August 11, 2011
“The Q3 is an extremely athletic yet very elegant vehicle. It combines the powerful aesthetics of a robust car with the shape of a cool coupe”, explains Hans-Jürgen Abt. For the CEO of ABT Sportsline, the world’s largest tuner of vehicles from the VW Group, the latest offspring of the SUV family represents an absolute highlight in the product range: “In its class the Q3 is something special. For our designers it provides the perfect working basis, as it is both classy and dynamic”, states Hans-Jürgen Abt. For example the Abts were able to further accentuate the unique tornado curves of the Q3 with side sills. In connection with the striking ABT front grill and the front spoiler the inherently compact car seems more powerful and to have more presence. The rear wing, rear apron and exhaust pipe covers ensure that from the rear of the SUV you can see that the car has a good figure.
After all the ABT Q3 does not just look sporty – it is sporty too: the engineers from Bavaria are currently working on the final tests of the individual ABT POWER performance packages. But it is already certain that the new car will provide an additional boost of maximum sportiness and extra driving enjoyment in practically all situations. As a result the most powerful version of the 2.0 TSI is expected to offer 250 HP or 184 kW (series standard: 211 HP/155 kW). The 170 HP version (125 kW) has been converted by ABT Sportsline into a sports engine with 210 HP (154 kW). For SUVs, a diesel engine is of course always a good, economical solution. As a result ABT POWER is also available for both performance levels of the economic 2.0 TDI: the series standard 140 HP (103 kW) is increased to 170 HP (125 kW), while the version with 177 HP (130 kW) as standard offers a high-torque 195 HP (143 kW) after the power treatment by ABT. The turbo diesel with two litre cubic capacity is the first choice if you want a little more, for example if the athletic ABT Q3 is also to be used as a workhorse.
Regardless of which engine is chosen, the customer always receives a vehicle which combines maximum driving fun with everyday usability and reliability. The fact that handling and optics do not have to suffer due to the car’s diversity is proved emphatically by the SUV of ABT. And the new Q3 in particular is a really attractive car, its design elements harmonise with the performance improvements – both have been developed as it were from the high demands of ABT customers. Consequently the extravagant light metal alloys from the CR and DR ranges suit the ABT Q3’s powerful-robust coupe shape perfectly. It goes without saying that the alloys are also available in combination with strong load-bearing high-performance tyres – in accordance with the commitment to maximum urban sportiness.
The new ABT Q3 – data and facts
ABT engine technology
[Source : ABT Sportline]
Regardless of which engine is chosen, the customer always receives a vehicle which combines maximum driving fun with everyday usability and reliability. The fact that handling and optics do not have to suffer due to the car’s diversity is proved emphatically by the SUV of ABT. And the new Q3 in particular is a really attractive car, its design elements harmonise with the performance improvements – both have been developed as it were from the high demands of ABT customers. Consequently the extravagant light metal alloys from the CR and DR ranges suit the ABT Q3’s powerful-robust coupe shape perfectly. It goes without saying that the alloys are also available in combination with strong load-bearing high-performance tyres – in accordance with the commitment to maximum urban sportiness.
The new ABT Q3 – data and facts
ABT engine technology
- Engine : 2.0 TDI, 1.968 ccm capacity
- Performance tuning : ABT POWER
- Performance : 170 HP/125 kW (standard: 140 HP/103 kW)
- Engine : 2.0 TDI, 1.968 ccm capacity
- Performance tuning : ABT POWER
- Performance : 195 HP/143 kW (standard: 177 HP/130 kW)
- Engine : 2.0 TSI, 1.984 ccm capacity
- Performance tuning : ABT POWER
- Performance : 210 HP/154 kW (standard: 170 HP/125 kW)
- Engine : 2.0 TSI, 1.984 ccm capacity
- Performance tuning : ABT POWER
- Performance : 250 HP/184 kW (standard: 211 HP/155 kW)
- ABT front grill
- ABT front skirt
- ABT door strip attachments
- ABT rear skirt set with exhaust inserts
- ABT rear wing
- ABT suspension springs
- ABT CR and DR designer light alloy wheels in 18 to 20 inch
- Available also as complete set of wheels with sports tyres
[Source : ABT Sportline]
Opel adds new engines and premium features to Insignia model year 2012
|Wednesday, August 10, 2011
- Best-in-class: New 1.4 turbo ecoFLEX thriftiest gasoline engine in mid-size class
- Powerful: New 2.0 turbo with 185 kW/250 hp delivers 400 Nm of torque
- Clever: Start/Stop system available for many engine variants
- Added value: Navigation system, front camera, high-class leather interior
New 1.4 turbo ecoFLEX thriftiest gasoline engine
The newly developed 1.4 turbo ecoFLEX gasoline engine is the product of uncompromising “downsizing”. In combination with six-speed manual transmission, Start/Stop technology, power steering, aerodynamic underbody paneling and size 225/50 R 17 low-rolling-resistance tires, it is the most economical gasoline engine in the entire mid-size class segment.
All together, these measures reduce the 1.4 turbo fuel consumption – compared with the previous 1.8-liter version, also with 103 kW/140 hp – by two liters in the sedan to 5.7 liters per 100 kilometers. CO2 emissions are reduced by 45 grams to 134 grams per kilometer – in both cases a reduction of more than 25 percent. At the same time, the torque delivered by the most economical gasoline engine in its class was increased by almost 15 percent to 200 Nm.
With this performance potential the Insignia 1.4 turbo ecoFLEX can accelerate from zero to 100 km/h in just 10.9 seconds, reaching a maximum speed of 205 km/h. Opel’s top model is available with this propulsion variant as a sedan or as a Sports Tourer and – with 5.9 liters per 100 km and 139 g/km CO2 – it also sets standards in the station wagon segment.
Refinements to the new powertrain also include the optimization of the transmission ratio, resulting in reduced consumption and improved agility. The electric power steering REPS (Rack Assist Electric Power Steering) featured for the first time in the Insignia provides additional comfort. Its steering characteristics can now be even more flexibly adapted to every driving situation. A significant advantage of the REPS system is the potential for fuel saving and thus a reduction in CO2 emissions. As it does not permanently rely on a running hydraulic servo pump, the electric power steering is only active when it is required.
New 2.0 turbo with 185 kW/250 hp delivers 400 Nm of torque
The two-liter turbo with direct injection in combination with the state-of-the-art 4x4 all-wheel drive goes into the new model year with 30 hp higher output. It is available with six-speed manual transmission or automatic transmission. The engine delivers 185 kW/250 hp and maximum torque of 400 Nm (previously 350 Nm). This powerful drivetrain with manual transmission can sprint from zero to 100 km/h in just 7.5 seconds. The top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h.
The 2-liter turbo unit is impressive proof that increased output and reduced fuel consumption can go hand in hand. Thanks to extensive measures like the Start/Stop system and low-rolling-resistance tires, Opel engineers were able to reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions to 8.4 l/100 km and 197 g/km respectively (previously: 8.9 l/100 km, 209 g/km CO2). With this increase in power and torque and the even more dynamic characteristics – with simultaneous reduction in fuel consumption – the Insignia 2.0 turbo 4x4 convinces with a top performance in the premium mid-size class segment.
Opel Start/Stop system with many engine variants
Not just the two units already mentioned benefit from the Opel Start/Stop system. The 162 kW/220 hp 2.0 turbo with front-wheel drive and six-speed manual transmission will soon be available with the intelligent fuel-saving technology – including aerodynamic underbody paneling and rolling-resistance-optimized tires.
This reduces fuel consumption by 0.5 to 7.6 liters per 100 kilometers. The Start/Stop system is in its element in city traffic, where up to one liter per 100 kilometers can be saved. The CO2 emissions in the combined cycle were reduced accordingly to 179 instead of the former 189 grams per kilometer.
New infotainment systems Navi 600 and Navi 900 "Europa”
The new infotainment systems Navi 600 and Navi 900 Europa are far superior to the CD or DVD-based predecessor versions in terms of the scope of features offered. All of the map material is stored on SD cards, and the maps can be adapted to suit individual customer needs. In addition to the default points of interest (POIs), further POIs can be downloaded and stored on the device. The driver can select single points and store these in the address book as individual POIs. Another practical feature: as well as the fastest and shortest routes, the navigation system also allows the selection of the most economical, i.e. lowest fuel consumption routes.
The Navi 900 Europa system also offers a voice recognition and log book function – the latter with the option of separating private and business trips. An additional POI announcement informs the driver of points of interest in the direct proximity by audible signal, text or popup. As of the equipment variant “Edition”, an especially high-quality Infinity sound system is also available.
Opel front camera with additional functions
The Opel Insignia also offers further optimizations in the model year 2012 in terms of safety. The new Opel front camera, used for traffic sign recognition and lane departure warning to date, now also has the Following Distance Indication which constantly measures the distance to the car ahead in seconds. It is activated automatically from a speed of 40 km/h and helps the driver to avoid rear-end collisions and possible fines for tailgating. The Forward Collision Alert provides a visual signal on the instrument cluster and an audible alarm to warn the driver of an imminent collision with the car ahead. Additionally, the optionally available front camera in conjunction with AFL+ serves as a High Beam Assist.
Premium equipment: Nappa leather “Indian Night”
The model year 2012 Insignia also offers enhanced comfort and additional elegance. It is available on request with premium Nappa leather finish “Indian Night” which is distinguished by a combination of high-quality black leather with contrasting stitching in an elegant Cognac tone. The exterior look is refined by the new dark metallic lacquer “Luxor”, which, depending on the light, has blue-violet color reflections. The sporty, elegant silhouette of the Opel Insignia will be rounded off in the coming months by a selection of new alloy wheels with striking rim designs.
Alain Visser, Vice President Sales, Marketing and Aftersales at Opel, on the market potential of the optimized Opel Insignia: “With its new product characteristics, particularly regarding fuel consumption and CO2 reductions, the Insignia will strengthen its outstanding position in its class – to the benefit of our customers.”
[Source : GM-OPEL]
Hyundai reveals first rendering of the all-new i30
|
- ‘Fluidic sculpture’ uses flowing lines to showcase a dynamic appearance
- All-new-generation of i30 designed and engineered in Europe
- New model set for world premiere at Frankfurt Motor Show next month
The all-new i30 was designed and engineered at the Hyundai Motor Europe Technical Centre in Rüsselsheim, Germany, and represents the next evolution of the unique form language, ‘fluidic sculpture’ – the company’s distinctive design DNA.
The ‘fluidic sculpture’ ethos utilises flowing lines inspired by nature and modern architecture to give a constant three-dimensional presence to Hyundai vehicles, and was introduced as the Hyundai ix-onic concept at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show. Since this debut, ‘fluidic sculpture’ has become the design language behind all new Hyundai models launched in Europe.
Thomas Bürkle, Chief Designer, Hyundai Motor Europe commented: “When designing the new i30, we used strong, fluid lines to sculpt a car which looks athletic while exuding a sense of constant motion, even when stationary. From the rendering, you can see how we managed to give the car a bold stance, transmitting a confident attitude through sporty characteristics and dynamic proportions. In this way, the car is very close to the recently unveiled i40, and we want people to recognise the Hyundai design DNA on those two models.”
The next-generation i30 is also recognisable thanks to Hyundai’s signature front face – the hexagonal shaped front grille.
“The hexagonal appearance is unique to Hyundai, with the jewel-like front headlamps which flank the grille adding a strong personality to the vehicle, as well as a sense of refinement and luxury,” Thomas Bürkle added.
Allan Rushforth, Senior Vice President and COO of Hyundai Motor Europe, commented, “We expect this next-generation i30 to play a significant role in developing our brand image in Europe and strengthen the vehicle’s position as our best-seller in Europe. Since 2007, the name ‘i30’ has become synonymous with ‘quality’, ‘reliability’ and ‘low emissions’ in Europe, and we hope that, amongst others, the term ‘emotional appeal and style’ will be added to the list with the introduction of this dynamic new model.
“Under our brand slogan ‘New Thinking. New Possibilities’, our European team of designers have sculpted a car which truly looks at home on European roads thanks to its bold and confident appearance. We are very excited about revealing the car for the first time in Frankfurt next month.”
[Source : HYUNDAI]
New Suzuki Swift Sport to make world debut at 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show
|
The new generation of the Suzuki Swift Sport will make its world debut at the 64th International Motor Show (IAA), which will be held in Frankfurt, Germany, from 13 to 25 September 2011*1).
New Swift Sport: an evolution of Swift series' sporty flagship
The new Swift Sport is a refined sports compact and the result of the first full model change since the launch of the original Swift Sport in 2006. It has a more aggressive and dignified exterior look thanks to a ground-hugging form that gives a sense of stability and tension and a big front grille that hints at the performance within. And its cabin combines essential sportiness with a high-quality look and feel, as well as, design features that heighten the excitement about the driving experience.
Higher power and lower fuel consumption are delivered by the 1.6-litre M16A engine, which Suzuki developed exclusively for the Swift Sport. The engine is mated to a specially developed six-speed manual transmission, resulting in performance that is both exciting and environmentally responsible. Plus, the new Swift Sport offers superior cornering stability and brisker, more responsive handling thanks to struts with internal rebound springs and an exclusive rear-suspension design.
High levels of safety are assured by features such as a light, stiff, impact-absorbing body; seven airbags (including curtain airbags and a driver's knee airbag); and ESP® (Electronic Stability Program).
Major specifications
*2)The data are provisional pending the results of homologation procedures.
[Source : SUZUKI]
New Swift Sport: an evolution of Swift series' sporty flagship
The new Swift Sport is a refined sports compact and the result of the first full model change since the launch of the original Swift Sport in 2006. It has a more aggressive and dignified exterior look thanks to a ground-hugging form that gives a sense of stability and tension and a big front grille that hints at the performance within. And its cabin combines essential sportiness with a high-quality look and feel, as well as, design features that heighten the excitement about the driving experience.
Higher power and lower fuel consumption are delivered by the 1.6-litre M16A engine, which Suzuki developed exclusively for the Swift Sport. The engine is mated to a specially developed six-speed manual transmission, resulting in performance that is both exciting and environmentally responsible. Plus, the new Swift Sport offers superior cornering stability and brisker, more responsive handling thanks to struts with internal rebound springs and an exclusive rear-suspension design.
High levels of safety are assured by features such as a light, stiff, impact-absorbing body; seven airbags (including curtain airbags and a driver's knee airbag); and ESP® (Electronic Stability Program).
Major specifications
- Overall length: 3,890mm
- Overall width: 1,695mm
- Overall height: 1,510mm
- Wheelbase: 2,430mm
- Treads Front: 1,470mm
- Treads Rear: 1,475mm
- Piston displacement: 1,586cm3)
- Maximum output: 100kw/6,900rpm*2)
- Maximum torque: 160N-m/4,400rpm*2)
*2)The data are provisional pending the results of homologation procedures.
[Source : SUZUKI]
All-New “SUBARU XV” to Make World Premiere at 64th Frankfurt Motor Show
|
TOKYO, August 10, 2011 - Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. (FHI), the maker of Subaru automobiles, today has announced that it will exhibit the all-new “SUBARU XV” (European specifications) as a world premiere at the 64th Frankfurt Motor Show in September 2011. The new model will be unveiled at the Subaru press conference, scheduled at 9.30am on September 13th.
Subaru XV Concept at 2011 Shanghai Motor Show
Under the brand statement "Confidence in Motion", Subaru brand always inspires confidence with customers through its commitment to "engineering excellence". With the core ideal of "engineering excellence", Subaru continues to provide customers with "Enjoyment and Peace of Mind" in all Subaru products.
Images : SUBARU XV Concept
[Source : SUBARU]
The Audi urban concept – a completely new kind of concept car
|- An innovative urban concept car with 1+1 seats
- Sleek cockpit made from CFRP, free-standing wheels with protective plates
- Elaborate suspension, compact electric drive system for sporty performance
The Audi urban concept is not based on any previous model – its development is solely oriented on the strict principles of lightweight construction, efficiency and reduction. The result is a concept car with no unnecessary weight, and one that concentrates on the pure essence of sporty motion.
The Audi urban concept has a sleek body. The wheels are free-standing, their surrounding protective plates feature blinking strips of LED lights. The highly concentrated look of the technical study, with its forward-urging lines, is dynamic and emotional – it lends Audi’s design language a completely new impetus.
On board there is room for two people, their position slightly staggered and at a sporty, low level. All controls and materials are subject to the dictates of ultra-lightweight construction in order to ensure they convey a completely unique, sensory allure. The driver can adjust the steering wheel and pedals to his own body measurements. Entry to the car is via the tailgate. The roof is designed to be maneuverable and slides to the rear to open.
The technology in the Audi urban concept reflects the full capabilities of the brand, especially when it comes to ultra-lightweight construction. The cockpit consists of carbon fiber-reinforced polymer, which integrates the undercarriage of both seats. The Audi urban concept rolls on wheels with a 21-inch diameter.
Two e-tron electric motors provide the propulsion – providing the ultra-light Audi urban concept with the ability to accelerate powerfully. A lithium-ion battery supplies the energy – ideal for extended city tours.
Images : Audi Urban Concept
[Source : AUDI]
Updated! : Renault Samsung Motors to roll out All-New SM7 in August
|Tuesday, August 9, 2011
- This August will see the brand introduce the latest-generation SM7. Developed over a period of 32 months, with R&D investments reaching some 400 billion South Korean won (€207 million), it stands out as a new benchmark in Korea's big saloon market, seven years after the launch of the original SM7.
- All-New SM7 carries over the same exacting quality standards and value for money of previous versions thanks to widespread use of state-of-the-art Renault-Nissan Alliance technology.
- The latest-generation SM7 features the elegant and sophisticated styling expected of such a prestigious saloon.
- Ultimate comfort is provided by the segment's most spacious interior and premium well-being features.
- All-New SM7 delivers maximized driving pleasure thanks to its 'Sport Mode' function and Paddle Shift gearshift technology – a segment first – plus enhanced handling and ride comfort.
Renault Samsung Motors unveiled All-New SM7 at a media road test in South Korea and the model will be available in showrooms from mid-August.
To underpin the in-depth changes it introduces, the second-generation SM7 will be known as All-New SM7 and was developed over a period of 32 months, with R&D investments amounting some 400 billion South Korean won (€270 million). Renault Samsung Motors’ flagship model delivers the same impeccable quality and value for money of former SM7 models and exceeds the demand of its E-segment customers thanks to the advanced Renault-Nissan Alliance technologies it packs.
All-New SM7 features the elegant and sophisticated styling expected of a prestige saloon, with a special focus on roomy cabin space and premium well-being features, plus an exceptionally silent ride and outstanding travelling comfort.
It boasts the roomiest interior in its segment with kneeroom for rear passengers up by more than 70mm over the previous SM7, plus plenty of headroom and shoulder room. Several premium well-being features have been introduced, too, including Aviation Headrests – another segment first – plus an optimized Air-Ventilation System which distinguishes it from other big Korean-made saloons. The ultimate motoring experience is ensured by the car's quiet ride and exceptional, segment-leading ride comfort. Meanwhile, features like the 'Sport Mode' function and Paddle Shift gearshifts are available for the first time in the segment to deliver even greater driving enjoyment. This overall package has been designed to position All-New SM7 as a truly high-end prestige saloon.
All-New SM7 is powered by the Nissan VQ engine which has been listed by the leading automotive industry research group Ward’s as one of the world's top 10 engines for 14 consecutive years. The performance and durability of the third-generation VQ engine has been achieved thanks to extensive work in areas such as friction and optimised engine management, as well as improved intake and exhaust systems, a more efficient catalytic converter and the use of iridium spark plugs, etc. The VQ powerplant drives through a new, six-speed automatic transmission with a manual shift function which includes a high-capacity torque converter for seamless gear changes and superior driving performance. All-New SM7 can be specified with one of two engines: the 3.5 VQ (six-speed automatic transmission with manual gearshift mode) or the 2.5 VQ (six-speed automatic transmission with manual selector mode). Both will be available with three equipment levels to cover the different needs and tastes of the model's customers.
The maximum power delivered by the VQ25 engine is 190hp, an increase of 15 percent over the previous SM7, while peak torque stands at 243Nm at 4,400rpm. This version of the engine has sought to optimise performance in the most practical and commonly-used rev ranges, while customers also benefit from energy control technology features like ESM (Energy Smart Management) for fuel consumption of just nine litres/100km.
In the case of the VQ35 engine, maximum power of 258hp (up more than 20% over the previous SM7) makes it the segment's most powerful powerplant. Peak torque of 330Nm is produced at 4,400rpm, allowing drivers to benefit from outstanding performance compared with rival models across the most practical and frequently-employed engine speed ranges. Fuel consumption is a low 10.4 litres/100km.
Prices for All-New SM7 range from 30 to 39 million Korean won (€19,724 to 25,641), while that of the previous SM7 ranged from 28.8 to 37.7 million Korean won (€18,935 to €24,786).
Thanks to its competitive price tag, which belies its enhanced performance characteristics, All-New SM7 is expected to have a radical effect on the big saloon car market.
Said Renault Samsung Motors CEO Jean-Marie Hurtiger: “All-New SM7 is Renault Samsung Motors’ new flagship and delivers everything customers expect of a big premium saloon, including refined, luxurious styling, exceptional quality, and outstanding comfort and driving pleasure thanks to the contribution of the Renault-Nissan Alliance's world class technological expertise. All-New SM7 will set new standards in Korea's big family saloon car market.”
At the time of the original SM7's launch in December 2004, the model established a new benchmark in Korea's big saloon car market thanks to its sophisticated styling, excellent handling, quiet ride and dynamic driving performance. In the customer surveys carried out by automobile market research specialists Marketing Insight, it topped the 'Marketability' classification for three consecutive years and the 'Quality Stress' classification among cars in all segments for two consecutive years.
[Source : RENAULT]
2011 DTM : Mattias Ekström wins at the Nürburgring
|Sunday, August 7, 2011
2011 DTM - Nurburgring winner : Mattias Ekström (SWE) #8 Audi Sport Team Abt Sportsline - 2009 Red Bull Audi A4 DTM
2011 DTM - Nurburgring winner : Mattias Ekström (SWE) #8 Audi Sport Team Abt Sportsline - 2009 Red Bull Audi A4 DTM
In an action-packed race, Timo Scheider showed a great recovery with his Audi A4 DTM, moving up four places to finish fourth. His fellow Audi driver Martin Tomczyk, Spengler’s main rival in the battle for the title, converted seventh place on the grid into fifth place at the finish. The best-placed driver of a 2008-spec car was rewarded with four points. In the drivers’ standings, Tomczyk is seven points down on Spengler. Scheider is ranked third with 29 points.
British driver Jamie Green had a poor start and dropped back from second to sixth place. That was also the position in which the Mercedes-Benz driver crossed the finish line. DTM rookie Edoardo Mortara (Audi) from Italy was classified seventh and thus scored championship points for the third time this season already.
The two ex-Formula 1 drivers Ralf Schumacher and David Coulthard (both Mercedes-Benz) caused discussion at the start of the race. After two subsequent collisions, Schumacher retired, Coulthard crossed the finish line in 17th place. The stewards gave both drivers a penalty, suspended for the next race. In case of a further infringement, the driver involved will be dropped three places on the starting grid for the following event.
A total of 86,500 spectators attended the DTM race weekend in the Eifel. The next stop for the 18 DTM drivers is at Brands Hatch (GB) from September 2nd till 4th.
Dr. Wolfgang Ullrich, head of motorsport Audi: “A very good weekend for Audi. Seven Audis in the top ten are excellent. Mattias is back. After more than one year, he has simply driven a perfect race. I have missed that a little but. Mike had already been under pressure from Bruno for a few laps. I already thought that he would make it for the two remaining laps. At those places where Bruno could have overtaken, the gap was always big enough. Too bad that it still went wrong, but up to that point, Rocky had been driving a very good race.”
Norbert Haug, head of motorsport Mercedes-Benz: “Today, Bruno can consider himself as the winner. He has extended his lead in the drivers’ standings and has shown a performance that is worthy of a champion. Yesterday, he had bad luck in qualifying when he had the worst weather in the final heat, the single-lap qualifying for the best four drivers. Great that he has still turned his fourth place on the grid into second place in the race. He stayed closely behind Rocky, has put him under pressure and thus forced him into a mistake.”
The race at a glance
Air temperature: 16.5 °C
Asphalt temperature: 25.4 °C
Spectators during the race weekend: 86.500
Start Ekström leads, Rockenfeller moves up into second place. Vietoris spins at the back of the field in the Mercedes Arena.
Lap 1 Ekström is leading from Rockenfeller, Spengler, Mortara, Scheider.
Lap 2 Schumacher pushes Coulthard, they both go wide in the Mercedes Arena. Schumacher is then pushed by Coulthard and spins coming out of the Merceds Arena, Schumacher gets out of the car and retires.
Lap 4 Coulthard's car is dented at the front following the battle with Schumacher - he gets a black and orange flag.
Lap 5 Coulthard comes into the pits to have the bonnet of his car replaced.
Lap 6 Coulthard under investigation.
Lap 7 Paffett attacks Molina for eighth place.
Lap 9 Albuquerque and Paffett side by side, Albuquerque and Van der Zande overtake the Brit, Paffett drops back to eleventh.
Lap 11 Albuquerque overtakes Molina and is now eighth, Paffett past Van der Zande for tenth.
Lap 12 Scheider past Mortara for fourth. Martin Tomczyk is the first to come in for his pit stop, Paffett, Molina, Van der Zande also into the pits.
Lap 13 Green, Mortara, Stoddart, Frey into the pits. Tomczyk has moved up two positions after his stop.
Lap 14 Scheider, Albuquerque, Engel into the pits.
Lap 15 Rockenfeller, Spengler, Vietoris, into the pits.
Lap 16 Ekström into the pits.
Lap 17 Ekström returns ahead of Rockenfeller, Spengler and Tomczyk. Jarvis has yet to make his first stop and is in first place.
Lap 18 Jarvis into the pits.
Lap 19 Order after the first pit stops: Ekström is leading from Rockenfeller, Spengler, Tomczyk, Scheider, Mortara, Green, Albuquerque, Molina, Paffett.
Lap 20 Scheider has overtaken Tomczyk and is now fourth.
Lap 23 Green is the first to come into the pits for the second stop.
Lap 24 Tomczyk, Jarvis into the pits. Coulthard comes in for his first mandatory stop.
Lap 25 Van der Zande into the pits.
Lap 26 Engel into the pits.
Lap 27 Molina, Vietoris into the pits.
Lap 28 Paffett, Stoddart, Frey into the pits.
Lap 30 Engel off the track at the Sprint-loop after a battle with Vietoris, Mortara into the pits.
Lap 31 Spengler, Scheider, Albuquerque into the pits.
Lap 32 Rockenfeller into the pits.
Lap 33 Ekström into the pits.
Lap 34 All drivers but Coulthard having made two stops, Ekström is leading from Rockenfeller, Spengler, Scheider, Tomczyk, Green, Mortara, Paffett, Albuquerque and Jarvis.
Lap 35 Coulthard into the pits.
Lap 39 Spengler attacks Rockenfeller for second.
Lap 41 Coulthard is pushing behind fourth-placed Scheider, although Coulthard is one lap down.
Lap 48 Rockenfeller locks up under braking for the first corner. He runs wide, Spengler goes past.
Lap 49 Final lap.
Finish Ekström wins from Spengler, Rockenfeller, Scheider, Tomczyk, Green and Mortara. Paffett, Albuquerque and Jarvis round out the top ten.
2011 DTM - Nurburgring : Race result
2011 DTM : Drivers' Championship
2011 DTM : Teams' Championship
Images : 2011 DTM - Nurburgring
[Source : DTM - Official]
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