Congeniality Award? Renault launches new R29

Click on either image to view the new Renault R29 in high resolution

Wow. After seeing a few of this year's Formula One cars unveiled already, we really didn't think that the cars could get much uglier. We were wrong. Enter Renault with its latest R29, decked out in yellow and orange. And white. And red. And blue. Throw in some green and we'd be back at the Benetton team that preceded it.
Of course, it could hardly matter less what the car looks like, so long as it keeps the pace with its field-leading rivals. And in the last half of this past season, Renault showed that it could. But with all the new regulations in place, it's a whole new ballgame, and who's to know if the French team - returning to the grid with Fernando Alonso and Nelson Piquet, Jr. - will be able to ride back up the field to the championship-contending potential it demonstrated just a few years ago with back-to-back titles. We'll just have to wait and see.

Gallery: 2009 Renault R29 F1

Will Gordon Murray's microcar be named iStream?

Gordon Murray, the man primarily known for bringing us the McLaren F1 is current working on his 25th clean-sheet design, internally dubbed the T.25. While that's a perfectly acceptable codename for a project, it lacks the kind of catchy cache necessary when the city car hits dealers. So, it's with interest that we read about Murray's trademark requests for the names iStream, iFrame and iCentre in the automotive sector. It's purely speculation, but there's a good chance these monikers may be used on Murray's new microcar. GreenMotor thinks that the car will be called the iStream and that service centers could be iCentres. Sounds plausible enough to us, and we wonder if the innovative flat-packable chassis itself could be the iFrame. Regardless, we're a bit weary of all the iNamed products already on the market -- and Apple's proclivity towards trademark lawsuits -- but we'll happily overlook that fact if the machine turns out to be as innovative as it sounds.
[Source: GreenMotor]

McLaren Unveils 2009 MP4-24 F1 Car

Just a couple of day after Toyota announced their new F1 car, McLaren unveiled MP4-24, the little monster that will run the track for the 2009 F1 Championship. However, that’s not the only news we’ve heard? Apparently Ron Paul used the occasion to announce the pres that he’ll be stepping down as team principal starting March 1st, and that the new chief will be long time deputy Martin Whitmarsh. Now back to the new car features major aerodynamic changes that include a wider front wing and a more compact rear wing for better distribution, the addition of driver-adjustable front-wing flaps and a heavily revised diffuser. And did we mention that it will use the new KERS (Kinetic Enrgy Recovery System) device which harnesses the energy generated from the braking system and stores it in super-capacitor batteries for an additional 80 bhp. That definitely has to make it faster, don’t you think?

Just a couple of day after Toyota announced their new F1 car, McLaren unveiled MP4-24, the little monster that will run the track for the 2009 F1 Championship. However, that’s not the only news we’ve heard? Apparently Ron Paul used the occasion to announce the pres that he’ll be stepping down as team principal starting March 1st, and that the new chief will be long time deputy Martin Whitmarsh. Now back to the new car features major aerodynamic changes that include a wider front wing and a more compact rear wing for better distribution, the addition of driver-adjustable front-wing flaps and a heavily revised diffuser. And did we mention that it will use the new KERS (Kinetic Enrgy Recovery System) device which harnesses the energy generated from the braking system and stores it in super-capacitor batteries for an additional 80 bhp. That definitely has to make it faster, don’t you think?

2008 testing complete for Vodafone McLaren Mercedes

Image by Getty Images via DaylifeAfter three days testing in Portugal, Vodafone McLaren Mercedes can now enjoy a Christmas break before coming back reenergised in 2009.
Gary Paffett and Pedro de la Rosa completed the testing sessions at the brand new Autodromo Internacional do Algarve circuit and achieved strong results.
On day one, Paffett spent the bulk of the day clocking up extra miles on the new KERS–equipped 23K, adding useful miles to the vehicle’s electrical unit and front wing.
De la Rosa took over testing for the following two days, and set the fastest lap of all the sessions on day two of 1:30:080.
During this session he completed some aero testing and was soon in the swing after some initial problems with grip, caused by low-speed circuit configuration.
On the final day, the Vodafone McLaren Mercedes team’s last testing session of 2008, the focus was on developing a better understanding of the interim 2009 aerodynamic package.
De la Rosa finished the day believing that big steps had been made in understanding the system.

2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class unveiled via web leak

We’ve seen so many spy shots of the upcoming 2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class that these official images hardly move us. Yet here they are, three images leaked onto the web that reportedly reveal the final production form of the 2010 E-Class, which makes its official debut in January at the 2009 Detroit Auto Show at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show in March.

The new E-Class was previewed by the Mercedes-Benz ConceptFascination that debuted at this year’s Paris Motor Show, and we can see now that the front of the production car was heavily influenced by the concept. Gone are the round, quad headlamps, which have been replaced with new light fixtures that still number four but are more contemporary and clean. Strips of LEDs can also be had as fog lights in the outermost intakes of the lower front bumper, which must be a German thing as Audi and Porsche have placed the advanced lighting tech in similar areas on their cars. The soft lines of the current model have been chiseled into a crisper shape that shares creases with its big brother, the S-Class, and the new profile appears to be more forgiving of tall passengers in back. The unfortunate looking Galant-like rear end features large, rectangular tail-lights that cross over a rather voluminous-looking trunk.

Spy shots: 2010 Mercedes Benz E-Class Estate wagon

The next-generation Mercedes Benz E-class has again been spotted in testing but this time the prototype is for the Mercedes Benz E-class‘Estate’ wagon version. The images were taken near the carmaker’s headquarters in Germany and reveal the final shape of the car, with only the finer details being masked by the black camouflage material. These new renderings and spy shots, however, gives us a good indication as to how the final version will look.

We can clearly see the design of the grille and some details on the tail-lights. The next E-Class is expected to debut at next year’s Geneva Motor Show before going on sale later that same year as a 2010 model. The wagon ‘Estate’ variant, meanwhile, should be unveiled at the following Frankfurt Motor Show in September.

Mercedes E Class Coupe Caught Almost Undisguised

Caught by WCF reader "Nikolaus", these are the best shots yet of the new 2010 Mercedes E Class Coupe with nearly all its camouflage removed.

Pagani Zonda R (2009)

Pagani Zonda is never shy of a drive at the racetrack, a fact that was proven numerous times in the past with records for production vehicles at the Nurburgring Nordschleife. With the input of its avid track focused customers, the Pagani team has created the Pagani Zonda R using bespoke engineering solutions to meet the performance demands for a trackday version of the highly popular Pagani Zonda F.
The central monocoque is made of a Carbon-Titanium composite, increasing rigidity while reducing significantly the weight. Bolted directly to the chassis is the Mercedes AMG 6.0 litre race derived V12 engine, with 750 hp and 710 Nm of torque. A direct throttle actuation via mechanical cable ensures immediate throttle response.
The Xtrac Magnesium cased dog ring gearbox combined with tha Automac Engineering AMT system performs gearshifts in 20ms, triggered by the drivers input on the paddles behind the steering wheel. A 12-way Bosch Motorsport traction control and ABS system allows the driver to fully adjust the settings while driving the Pagani Zonda R.
At the pits, each driver will be able to find a suitable setup thanks to a fully adjustable suspension and wing configuration. The effectiveness of the rear is matched by a complex new front bonnet, a masterpiece realised with the help of models by Ennegi, as well as the closed underbody and rear diffusor. Aerodynamic setups rage from a high downforce setting of 1.500kg to a 350kmh top speed setting.
Aspa forged AvionAl suspension components as well as machined structural ErgAl parts holding the engine and gearbox have been designed to reduce the weight of the overall car, Poggipolini Titanium screws are used on the whole car. These measures lead to a dry weight of 1.070 kg.
The interior has been designed to offer a perfect environment for the driver. The controls are limited to the indispensable, but the quality finish reflects the usual demanding Pagani standards. The bespoke Toora seats are FIA homologated and comply to latest HANS standards, five-point safety belts and a CrMo roll-cage assure the occupants' safety.
The lucky owners of the Pagani Zonda R will experience a level of performance on the track, that is simply not possible on the road. A power-to-weight ratio of 701 hp-per-ton will catapult them from 0 to 60 mph in less than 2,7 seconds, the Brembo carbon ceramic brakes ensure the car comes to a standstill even quicker.
The Pagani Zonda R is built in a limited production run and sold at a price of 1.460.000 Euro plus taxes, a performance machine, a track toy, a collectors item, a masterpiece signed by Horacio Pagani.
Technical DataEngine Type: Mercedes-Benz AMG - M120 - 12 cylinder V 60°, 48 valves; displacement 5987 ccm, dry sumpMax. Power: 750 hp (551 kW) @ 7.500 rpmMax. Torque: 710Nm @ 5.700 rpmStroke: 80,20 mmBore: 89,00 mmTraction control: 12 Stage - Bosch Motorsport traction control systemIntake: Single throttle bodies, mechanically operatedExhaust system: Hydroformed Inconel, ceramic coatedTransmission: Longitudinal mid engine; rear wheel drive with self-locking differentialGearbox: XTRAC 672 bespoke magnesium casing gearbox, 6 speed sequential dog gearchange with Automac Engineering AMT systemCarbon-ceramic brakes: 4 ventilated Brembo disks, hydraulic power brake 12 Stage - Bosch Motorsport Race ABSDiscs Front: 380x34 mm 6 piston caliperRear 380x34 mm 4 piston caliperWheels: Forged alloy APP wheels; 19" front, 20" rearTyres: Pirelli P Zero Zonda R: ant. 255/35/19; post. 335/30/20Suspensions: 4 independent wheels with double A-arm; Forged Avional suspension arms; pull rod helical springs and Öhlins adjustable shock absorbersStructure: Central carbon-Titanium chassis, Engine is a stressed member; front and rear Cr Mo space frames; bodywork carbon fiber MD SystemDimensions Length: 4886 mmWidth: 2014 mmHeight: 1141 mmWheelbase: 2785 mmDry weight: 1070 kgSafety: Roll cage in Cr Mo steel; carbon fibre seats HANS compatible; five point harness0-100 km/h: 2,7 secTop speed: > 350 km/hWeight-to-Power ratio: 1,43 kg/hp

New Car - FAB Design SLR Desire

With the SLR “Desire“, FAB Design has once more demonstrated its competence in the field of high-end luxury car customisation.
From the FAB Design high-performance engine which generates an unbelievable performance of 750hp and a maximum torque of 1,080Nm to the perfectly designed FAB Design interior – nearly any relevant part of the Mercedes super sports car has been customised and brought to perfection with the highest level of technical expertise by the FAB Design specialists.

The FAB Design body which has been redesigned by the Swiss specialist for this very exquisite masterpiece is made of ultra sturdy but extremely light and precious carbon which is produced in an autoclave – as is the case in aerospace industry and in Formula 1 – and in accordance with highest quality standards. At several exposed spots, the material is even visible since it has been clear-varnished in order to set spectacular accents.
Apart from the front and rear fenders, it also comprises new and exclusive FAB Design side skirts with special recesses for the FAB Design high-performance sports exhaust system whose pipes come out on the vehicle’s sides as is the case with the standard SLR.
The completely redesigned motor sports front apron as well as the reshaped bonnet which is adapted to the style of the new front side and to the wider fenders are further exclusive FAB Design highlights.
Even though, compared to the standard SLR, the vehicle has gained considerably in width, once again, the FAB Design specialists have succeeded in creating an absolutely harmonious silhouette.
This is the reason why the FAB Design specialists had the idea of creating something very special for the vehicle’s rear end.
The rear panel, completely redesigned by FAB Design, frames a huge diffuser which reduces the lift force. At the same time, the optionally available FAB Design rear wing spoiler increases the downforce at the rear axle without affecting the functionality of the brake assist inside the rear lid.
The result is a considerable improvement of driving dynamics and, thus, also of the driving safety at high and peak speeds which the FAB Design “Desire” will reach in the twinkling of an eye thanks to its enormous engine performance. The FAB Design specialists have achieved a further significant improvement of driving characteristics by installing their special sports suspension and by equipping the vehicle with huge forged FAB Design 20“ wheels which are provided with special high-performance 265/30 ZR 20 and 325/25 ZR 20 tyres by technology partner Michelin.
In the fist place, the interior equipment impresses with the way it harmonises with the vehicle’s colour. The interior is completely composed of black FAB DESIGN leather. The specially developed red FAB Design croco-style leather sets additional stylish accents. The FAB Design interior emphasises the appearance of the “Desire” with race character and elegance.
In order to make sure that the FAB Design “Desire“ will not be taken for a toothless tiger, the FAB Design specialists have focussed all their expertise and experience on the super sports car’s powertrain.
Thanks to extensive modifications of the engine periphery and of the hard and software, the FAB Design high-performance powertrain now generates 750hp instead of the standard SLR‘s 626hp. The maximum torque has been increased from 780Nm to 1,080Nm.
The result of all those efforts: The FAB Design “Desire” reaches a regulated top speed of 310 km/h and passes the 100 km/h mark in 3.6 seconds.
This breathtaking demonstration of engine force is, of course, rounded off by the infernal sound of the FAB Design high-performance sports exhaust system‘s total number of six tailpipes.
With the SLR “Desire“, FAB Design has made another impressive statement of its special class in the field of high-end luxury car customisation.
Unfortunately, FAB Design has limited the number of vehicles strictly to 15, and, although it was shown in Geneva only, the whole production is already Sold out.
More Sports Car Photos

Lexus unveils F-Sport Performance Accessories for the IS C Convertible

Lexus already offers its F-Sport Performance Package line on the GS and IS and is now extending the offering to the IS C Convertible upgrades include forged alloy wheels, brake upgrades, suspension systems, air intake, exhaust systems and more.

All F-Performance Accessories are fully warranted for 12 months or for the balance of the new car warranty, whichever is greater.

You can visit the F-Sport Performance site for more info.

Lexus F-Sport Performance Accessories for IS C Convertible:

F-Sport 19″ Forged Alloy Wheels

This lightweight forged alloy wheel, exclusively designed in a dark graphite finish, includes a staggered fitment with 19″ X 8″ front wheels and 19″ X 9″ rear wheels. Recommended tire sizes are 225/35R19 in the front and 255/35R19 in the rear.

F-Sport Front Brake Upgrade

The Front Brake Upgrade provides a firmer pedal feel and improved fade resistance in repeated severe duty use. The Brake features six piston fixed calipers, and drilled cast iron 355mm diameter rotors with a patented internal fin design mounted on anodized aluminum hubs. Braided stainless steel brake lines and low-dust performance brake pads are included and the upgrade can be used with stock or F-Sport upgraded rear brakes.

F-Sport Rear Brake Upgrade

Similar in construction to the F-Sport Front Brake Upgrade, the rear brake upgrade uses four piston fixed calipers and drilled cast iron 345mm diameter rotors. Braided stainless steel brake lines and low-dust performance brake pads are also included. The Rear Brake Upgrade may only be used in conjunction with F-Sport Front Brake Upgrade.

F-Sport Continuous Carbon CeramicTM Brake Upgrade

A new generation of carbon fiber-reinforced ceramic material technology maximizes high-temperature durability and system cooling in this ultimate upgrade for the IS F. Ceramic rotors measure 380mm diameter front and 355mm diameter rear on anodized aluminum hats. They incorporate the same internal cooling vane concepts as the F-Sport cast iron rotors, while significantly reducing unsprung and rotating mass compared to the IS F stock brake system. Distinctively finished six-piston front and four-piston rear fixed calipers signify leading-edge technology and performance. Specially qualified performance brake pads and stainless steel brake lines are included.

F-Sport Exhaust System

This system features all stainless steel construction with fully polished mufflers and double-wall exhaust tips. In addition to an outstanding appearance, it delivers a powerful, sport-tuned exhaust sound.

F-Sport Lowering Spring Set

This feature lowers the vehicle approximately 1″ in the front and rear for a more aggressive appearance and a lower center of gravity. The spring set is engineered to deliver lowered ride height without bottoming out or creating a harsh ride. The feature can be used with either the stock or F-Sport shock absorber set.

F-Sport Sway Bar Set

This includes a set of larger diameter, replacement front and rear sway bars that offer reduced body roll and flatter cornering. Urethane mounting brushings are also included to replace the original rubber brushings.

F-Sport Bilstein Shock Absorber Set

Developed in cooperation with Bilstein and available exclusively through the F-Sport Performance Accessory program, this shock absorber set offers sport-tuned suspension dampening without sacrificing ride quality.

F-Sport Clutch

The F-Sport Clutch increases clamping force approximately 15% to handle higher torque capacity and provide improved feel.

F-Sport Quick Shifter

Engineered and machined from billet aluminum, the F-Sport Quick Shifter decreases shift throw by approximately 30% for positive shifting.

F-Sport Rear Chassis Member Brace

To improve chassis stiffness under aggressive driving conditions and provide a more responsive feel during cornering, the F-Sport Rear Chassis Member Brace joins key rear chassis and suspension mounting points through this tubular steel brace.

F-Sport Carbon Fiber Engine Cover

Constructed from real carbon fibers, this very light and durable engine cover provides a high-tech appearance under the hood. This is a direct replacement for the original cover and is only available for the IS 350.

F-Sport Air Intake

This low restriction intake and filter assembly is fully compatible with stock engine controls and is emission legal in all 50 states.

Lexus Genuine Accessory Ground Effects Kit

For a lower, more aggressive appearance, this color-keyed four-piece body kit includes front and rear valences and side skirts.

Lexus Genuine Accessory Rear Spoiler

This rear deck mounted, color-keyed lip-style spoiler provides the finishing touch for the sport-tuned enthusiast.

EMM Marussia from Russia Sends its Hybrid Love

Russia is going into the hybrid sportscar business with the first of its kind for the country, the sub-6 second EMM Marussia.

Student venture RORMaxx explores wind powered EV sportscar

We do not often think of wind as an alternative energy capable of powering a car. These two California-students are out to change our minds.

Volvo SC90 Concept: What a Volvo Porsche Panamera rival would look like

It seems like every luxury automakers is gearing up to compete in the ‘four-door-coupe’ segment. Mercedes-Benz already has the CLS, Porsche recently released images and details on the Panamera, Aston Martin is preparing the launch of the Rapide and Lamborghini is planning a production version of the Estoque.

What you see here are renderings designed by Nouphone J. Bansasine of what is known as the Volvo SC90 - a proposal for a futuristic premium Volvo four-door-coupe. Bansasine designed the SC90 during his internship at Volvo in the Summer of 2007 where Volvo asked him to work on a new premium product for the brand.

He said that the sportscar with 4-doors and 4-seats would become Volvo’s new flagship model driving the Swedish brand to a more emotional direction. Will Volvo ever put Banasine’s SC90 into production? We certainly hope so but we don’t see it happening anytime soon.

Volvo SC90 Concept:

P1-E electric sportscar planned by ex-McLaren designer

Click above to enlarge the JJAD P1-E

Remember the P1 project from ex-McLaren F1 designer Jim Dowle? Just about a year ago, JJAD, Dowle's design firm, announced plans to build an inexpensive sportscar that was supposed to be a Lotus Exige challenger. Why mess with something that's already so well established? Instead, Dowle has charted a new, greener course and will now use an electric drivetrain for his upcoming gullwing-doored sportscar, now named the P1-E.
Being green doesn't often come cheap, and adding a lithium-ion battery pack and dual electric motors powering all four wheels has raised the expected price to £55,000, or about $75,000 USD. That sum would theoretically undercut the Tesla Roadster, and Dowle is claiming a run to 60 mph in just 2.9 seconds with a range of 230 miles to boot. Working prototypes are scheduled for 2009, after which some additional funding will likely be necessary. Stay tuned.
[Source: JJAD]

Martini Racing back off the grid?

It must be hard for most companies to justify multi-million-dollar sponsorship deals in times like these, but when the chips are down, you'd figure alcohol companies would still be doing just fine, if not better. So it comes as a bit of a surprise that Martini, a name with a rich heritage in motorsport sponsorship, has pulled back out of racing again.
The vermouth label celebrated its fortieth year in motorsports just last year. Martini & Rossi first hit the track plastered on the Porsche 917 at Hockenheim, and ever since their iconic red and blue striped livery has appeared on Porsches, Lancias, Alfas, Lotuses and Fords in sportscar racing, touring cars, rallying, Formula One and speedboats. After several years off the scene, Martini returned in 2006 with a small logo on the nose of the Ferrari 248 F1, but when the new F60 was launched last week, their logo was conspicuously missing, replaced by that of Indian automaker Tata's financial division. Martini's sponsorship deal with Ferrari was only signed for three years, covering 2006, 2007 and 2008, reportedly worth $3 million per season. It is speculated, however, that Martini's trackside advertising may continue in the new season. We certainly hope so, if only for the sight of the famous Martini girls, but we may have to do with simply mixing ourselves a drink and maybe buying some Martini-Porsche gear. In the meantime you can read up on the history of Martini Racing at martiniracing.com.
[Source: F1-Live]

Home-built amphibious car is a dream come true

Sitting in a boat with some bear and catching fish sounds good, but sitting in your car with some bear and catching fish sounds better. A Chinese man spent 13 years and £100,000 to make his dream come true, and now he has an amphibious car that he can take out for fishing.

The amphibious car travels on the road like an ordinary sportscar, but once in water, thrusters and propellers in the car’s boot come into play. The car can be sealed via remote control to make it waterproof. Wang, the creator of the car is currently trying to sell off his design to automotive companies and refuses to divulge his “business secrets”.

Lotus delays new Esprit to go hybrid

By: Noah Joseph

Nimble as they are, Lotus fans have been looking forward to something with a bit more oomph than the Elise/Exige/Europa series, and the Evora just didn't cut it. With the start of the new year, we thought we had come that much closer to the launch of the highly anticipated new Esprit. But the British sportscar-maker has moved the goalposts back, with new reports indicating that the re-Esprit may debut in 2011 instead of next year as originally planned.
The reason for the delay, according to emerging reports, is that Lotus is working to integrate some sort of mild hybrid system into its reborn GT. The system could be borrowed, along with its core powerplant, from BMW. A Lotus chassis with German power and regenerative braking may just be worth the wait.

Forget Playing it Safe: Meet the Volvo SC90 Concept

Click above to view the Volvo SC90 concept in high resolution

The four-door coupe segment has been sweeping across the industry, blurring the line between sportscar and sedan with such tantalizing examples as the Aston Martin Rapide, Mercedes CLS, BMW CS concept... and heck, why not, even the Porsche Panamera (somebody probably likes it). Volvo may not be the kind of company that easily jumps on bandwagons, preferring to stick to station wagons instead, but what if the Swedish automaker that made its reputation on safety were to go head-to-head with these super-sedans? One answer could be the S60 Concept the company just unveiled in Detroit, but as much attention as that show car garnered, what you see here is an even more convincing take on the theme: meet the Volvo SC90 design study.
Conceived by Volvo designer Nouphone J. Bansasine while undertaking an internship at the company in the summer of 2007, the SC90 concept cuts a striking silhouette that only gets "more complex and fresh [on the] second read." Far more aggressive and sharply-styled than anything we've seen from Volvo before, our only beef with the SC90 is that it exists only on paper. With the company's future in jeopardy and car sales down around the world, now may not be the time to introduce a car like this... but then again, considering that the upper end of the market continues to grow, may now's the perfect time. We'll run with that one.

Naked carbon-fiber Lotus Elise roaming Hong Kong

Click above for full gallery of pics of this carbon-fiber Lotus Elise

A couple SEMAs ago, we stumbled across a carbon-fiber Lotus Exige that had our salivary glands working overtime. With Colin Chapman's ethos of "adding lightness" to his designs, it seemed like the perfect application of the super-strong lightweight material on an already featherweight Lotus sportscar. We've been hoping to see something similar on the road and it looks like we'll have to travel across the Pacific to check it out in person. Thanks to a tipster, we know now that there is at least one other CF-cloaked Lotus and it resides in Hong Kong with custodian Jimmy Wong.
TW Auto Limited, a Hong Kong Lotus and turbocharging specialist, built the car in about six months. As you'll see in the pics, carbon fiber coats the entire exterior of this 2002 Elise, along with almost every panel inside. Even if it only shaves about 80 pounds from the curb weight, it looks thoroughly sinister. We're digging the way it highlights the car's curves, particularly around the gas filler. Although the engine remains fairly stock, it does feature an upgraded air filter and intake, plus a Stage 2 Lotus Racing Exhaust. The car was also fitted with a KW Suspension and JP Racing Wheels. For more pictures, check out the gallery cribbed from Flickr.

Lotus delays new Esprit to go hybrid

Nimble as they are, Lotus fans have been looking forward to something with a bit more oomph than the Elise/Exige/Europa series, and the Evora just didn't cut it. With the start of the new year, we thought we had come that much closer to the launch of the highly anticipated new Esprit. But the British sportscar-maker has moved the goalposts back, with new reports indicating that the re-Esprit may debut in 2011 instead of next year as originally planned.
The reason for the delay, according to emerging reports, is that Lotus is working to integrate some sort of mild hybrid system into its reborn GT. The system could be borrowed, along with its core powerplant, from BMW. A Lotus chassis with German power and regenerative braking may just be worth the wait.

Training Wheels: Dallara rolls out Formulino racer

Click above to view a high-res gallery of the Dallara Formulino

Typically, race cars - especially formula single-seaters - are designed and built for a specific series. Nobody knows that better than Dallara. The Italian motorsports engineering firm designed and fabricates the chassis for GP2, the World Series by Renault, practically the entire Formula 3 grid and the Indy Racing League, to say nothing of its occasional dabbling in Formula 1, sportscar and Grand Am racing. But now they've decided to shake things up a bit by building the Formulino.
Italian for "little formula", the idea behind the Formulino project is to give aspiring racing drivers a point of entry into the world of formula racing with a straightforward and affordable Dallara racer, similar to the ones they'd be driving in the big leagues, only smaller. Three different levels of Formulino spec are available - Base, Plus and Pro - each with different suspension and aero packages. The chassis is a carbon monocoque, outfitted with a Hewland FTR gearbox capable of handling a range of engine options up to 260 horsepower. Prices start at 38,500 euros (about $51,600 USD) for the Base model (not far off from the Formula Vee car we drove) and range up to 65k euros ($87k) for the full-on Pro model, a chassis that already approaches F3 spec.

Alfa Romeo to launch Junior sportscar based on MiTo

Click above to view a high-res gallery of the Alfa Romeo MiTo and 8C side-by-side

While the Alfa MiTo was under development, speculation placed a number of different nameplates on the sport hatch. One of them was Junior, but new reports suggest that Alfa may in fact be preparing an additional model to carry the Junior name.
Although the MiTo was earmarked to hold down the lower end of the Alfa Romeo range with styling drawn from the 8C Competizione, in terms of body style, at least, the new Junior may in fact be closer to the halo supercar - more of a sports coupe than a sport hatch. The platform will allegedly be based on the MiTo's, sharing some of the same engine options while introducing a new hydraulic manual as well as a new dual-clutch gearbox to the range. Little else is known about the Junior, but expect similar styling to the MiTo with a lower roofline and sleeker profile.
Sister company Lancia may yet get its own version to revive the Fulvia name, and given parent company Fiat's new alliance with Chrysler, we'd hope the new small sportscar might make it over the Atlantic as part of Alfa Romeo's long-anticipated return to the North American market.

230 mph, 8-Wheeled Electric Car May be On Sale Soon

If the Tesla Roadster just isn't enough for you...not fast enough, not weird enough, and not expensive enough, then you should probably start looking out for Eliica's. Just two of these Japanese peculio-mobiles currently exist, but the Eliica team is looking to get corporate sponsorship to produce 200 of them.
And, if they get that sponsorship, you'll be able to pick one up for the low, low price of $255,000.
Now, I know what you're thinking...why eight wheels? Well, very simply, so it can go faster. Traditionally, more rolling resistance would be a bad thing, but not if each of the wheels has its own 60 KW electric motor.
The goal of the team building the car at Keio University is to beat the world EV speed record, currently set at 400 mph.

Massive $1 billion electric car charging grid planned for San Francisco Bay Area

We've mentioned Project Better Place before, the company that plans to create a network of charging stations and battery exchange locations for electric cars in Denmark, Israel and Australia. Backed by super-rich investors, now it's planning an ambitious expansion into the San Francisco Bay area. The idea is to build a $1 billion network of 250,000 charging ports like you see here, 200 battery-swap stations, and a driver service center.

The remarkable aspect of this grand scheme is that most of this infrastructure is targeted to be operational by 2012. The three big-city (San Francisco, Oakland and San Jose) Bay Area mayors are on board with the idea, especially since this high-tech goodness won't cost them a cent. They will offer incentives for companies to install the chargers, and offered to expedite building permits to speed things along.
Meanwhile, Better Place will sell Renault-Nissan cars as part of the plan, and car companies such as GM and Toyota are interested in the idea, too. Tesla says its upcoming Model S sedan will be compatible with the swappable batteries and charging stations, adding that its battery will charge in the time it takes to fill a car's tank with gas. Better Place's remarkable move shows that the electric car scenario could fall into place quicker than anyone thought.

Tesla Model S Uncovered Images - Sort Of

The guys at Autopia have a great imagination just as other gear-heads who post off-the-wall automotive stuff online. A new rendering of the Tesla S has taken it to a new level. They have rendered what the Tesla S may actually look like found in their post, “Behold the Tesla Model S“.

They basically took a combination of a few teaser images that have already been circulating over the internet on various automotive sites and automotive blogs. If you ask me, it looks pretty convincing and I am willing to bet the actual Tesla Model S to look very similar to the photoshop job below. Can we call it a photoshop job? Is that still the correct lingo?

As you know from the Tesla Roadster it is a full electric vehicle (EV) pretty much in sports car form and now the new Tesla Model S will be a sedan version of the same technology and components. Way to go Tesla!

Below are the images from Autopia revealing the Tesla Model S, or what they think the Tesla Model S will look like.

Tesla Roadster Sport, Expensive but Faster

Now if those 1,100 guys waiting in line for a Roadster are not mad enough and can wait a few more months, our advice is to save more money and wait for the new sports version. Dubbed Tesla Roadster Sport, the two-seater electric vehicle is now 15-percent more powerful thanks to a hand-wound stator that increases winding density and helps eliminate resistance. The car also sports better handling, a unique paint job with carbon accents and a set of ultra high performance tires. Doing naught to 100km/h in only 3.7 seconds - unlike the base model that takes 3.9seconds - the car is expected to be deliver starting from June and the price is expected to start from $128,500 in the US. [via Jalopnik]

Clarkson fires back over Top Gear/Tesla controversy

Extending the controversy between Tesla Motors and Top Gear even further, Jeremy Clarkson has offered his own opinion regarding the issues of the Roadster's battery capacity and brake failure while being run 'round the Top Gear test track. Remember that the BBC already admitted that neither of its test cars actually ran out of juice, suggesting that the scene was filmed to show what would happen if it actually had. Clarkson's comments don't quite jive with that assessment, though, as he says, "We never said once that the car had run out of power. The car had to be pushed into the warehouse because you are not allowed to drive cars into a building. We calculated that it would have run out of power after 53 miles but they can't argue with that because that is a fact."

Bob Lutz to appear on Letterman next Wednesday with the Chevy Volt

Bob Lutz will be making an appearance on The Late Show with David Letterman next Wednesday with the 2011 Chevrolet Volt.

Following Letterman’s interview with Tesla Motors CEO Elon Musk, where Letterman made fun of the Volt, Lutz vocalized his anger saying that GM “should do a better job of making sure that Dave and everyone else who is in position to comment on national TV about our products has the right information, whether they use that information or not.”

Lutz then went on to invite himself to the show to teach Letterman more about the Volt; well, here’s his chance.

We’re pretty sure Lutz, who has a very outspoken personally, will hold his ground during the interview.

Tesla raises prices on all-electric Roadster

Tesla has delivered 150 all-electric Roadsters to its first lucky customers and still has another 400 or so eagerly awaiting their chance to hop behind the wheel of the ground-breaking sports cars. Unfortunately for those waiting individuals, Tesla has decided to increase the price of its Roadster and even those who have already paid deposits of up to $50,000 will have to fork up the extra cash. Citing its own survival as the reason behind the decision, Tesla has bumped prices on all its Roadsters by at least $6,700.
Tesla Roadster

JJAD P1-E - UK's response to Tesla Roadster

For enthusiasts to get behind electric cars, they have to be quick, nimble and just all-around fun. Tesla has made the first step with the Lotus-based Roadster, and if Shelby Super Cars can deliver on its promises, the Ultimate Aero EV may be the first supercar to not make us miss the gas pump. But America shouldn't be the only one producing this kind of fun. Now, former McLaren designer Jim Dowle has created the U.K.-based JJAD to produce its own electric sports car called the P1-E. (...)

Porsche wants to buy Tesla Roadster

Porsche is not just known for performance cars, but also for a crack team of engineers (how else do you expect to get that kind of performance from six-cylinders?) So it's no surprise that Porsche is in line to pick up a Tesla Roadster. Inside Line got the scoop from a Tesla spokesperson, "A Porsche senior engineer actually came over a few weeks back, and he was seriously analyzing the car in every detail." Porsche is reportedly working on its own lithium-ion car, possibly to use on its (...)

Tesla 1.5 test drive

The Tesla Roadster is simple to drive, but very fast, with smoothly delivered torque.

(Credit: CBS Interactive)

Every automotive journalist who drives a Tesla comes away impressed with the car's power, and I can say the same after taking the car out on a quick drive near the company's Menlo Park, Calif., Tesla store (they don't call it a showroom or dealership).

In Performance mode, the car exhibits powerful and smooth torque, even at speed. I had this little open top roadster at 65 mph on the freeway, then mashed the accelerator (don't call it a gas pedal) and got another powerful push in the back that sent the car quickly up to 90. The Tesla's push is unique among sports cars though. Where a high-stepper such as the BMW M3 makes you feel a kick in the back with every gear shift, the Tesla delivers a strong, steady push when you put your foot down on the pedal.

The Tesla I drove featured "Powertrain 1.5," eliminating the two-speed gearbox from the previous model. Yes, Tesla patterns itself after tech companies, so the power train gets a version designation, although the cars themselves still go by a model year.

In this Tesla, as in other electric cars I've driven, the operation is dead simple: Move the shifter from Neutral to Drive, and you're moving forward. Push the accelerator if you want to go faster and hit the brakes if you want to stop. The only real difference, besides the fact that the Tesla goes a lot faster than other electric cars, is that taking your foot off the accelerator at speeds less than 40 mph makes the car slow down as if you were applying light pressure on the brakes. That is the regenerative power train in operation, using the car's momentum to generate electricity for the battery pack. The Tesla also has regenerative brakes, but you don't need to use them much, adding the side-benefit of very infrequent brake maintenance.

Veritas RS III to make world debut at the 2009 Salon Prive

Veritas has announced that they will hold the world-debut of their Veritas RS III at the upcoming 2009 Salon Prive at the London Hurlingham Club. The £250,000 ($381,388) car will be joined by no less than seven new models but will be one of the better attractions at the show.

The car pays tribute to the Veritas name - continuing the success story of the original BMW Veritas from the 1940s.

The 2,380 pound Veritas RS III is available with a choice of two different powertrain options. The first is a 4.0L V8 making 480-hp mated to a manual transmission which allows for a 0 to 62 mph time of 3.6 seconds with a top speed of 204 mph. The second option is a 5.0L V10 from the BMW M5/M6 making a total of 600-hp. 0 to 60 mph for that engine choice comes in 3.2 seconds with a top speed of 215 mph.

Nissan GT-R Spec-V release confirmed, possible unveiling at NISMO festival

Reports about the release and pricing of the Nissan GT-R Spec-V have been circulating for months and Nissan HQ has supposedly confirmed the rumors and targeted an on-sale date in Japan in late January or early February.
The GT-R Spec-V is expected to be packing another 100 hp through the use of a new exhaust, more boost and a retuned ECU. Carbon fiber will replace some of the body panels to reduce weight, while new wheels, upgraded brakes and suspension tweaks will round out the mods.
Rumors suggest that Nissan could release the Spec-V at the 12th annual NISMO Festival at Fuji Speedway in Japan later this month. Pricing could be up to 15,000,000 yen - 2,000,000 more than earlier predictions - or around $154,000, more than double the cost of a standard GT-R. If the Spec-V goes on sale in the U.S., expect pricing to be considerably lower.

Porsche Panamera Official Photos, Details [Porsche Panamera GT]

Photos of and details about the Porsche Panamera GT, the company's first modern effort at creating a four-door sedan, have officially leaked all over the web and it looks exactly how we expected it to look. From what we can gather from Google Translator and Auto Telegraaf, the Panamera will first hit the shores in Panamera S and Panamera Turbo trim, each fitted with a 4.8-liter V8 putting out 400 HP and 500 HP, respectively. Both will also get Porsche's PDK 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox.Though no diesel version is likely to see production, a 3.6-liter V6 option good for 300 HP and a V6-electric hybrid are in the works for sale at a later date. Given the sedan's unique look, the production numbers seem quite optimistic. UPDATE: Full press release after the jump!

Emboldened by their success with the Cayenne SUV, Porsche is planning to sell 20,000 Panameras globally each year, with approximately 20% of these as the top-of-the-line Panamera Turbos. These sedans are going to be quite large if, as the leaked information states, the vehicle is actually 16.3 feet long and 6.3 feet wide. By comparison, a new 5-series BMW is only 15.9 feet long.

PORSCHE PRESENTS FIRST PHOTOS OF THE PANAMERA GRAN TURISMO Worldwide Debut in Spring 2009 ATLANTA

November 24, 2008 —- Three-quarters of a year prior to market launch, Porsche has released the first official photos the new Panamera. Porsche's unique four-seater was conceived and designed as a four-door grand touring sports car, combining numerous talents in typical Porsche style: sporting driving dynamics, a spacious interior, and the supreme comfort of a Gran Turismo. Joining the 911, Boxster and Cayman sports cars as well as the Cayenne SUV, the Panamera is Porsche's fourth model series. The Panamera designers have succeeded in positioning it as a brand-new and truly different model while retaining the looks of a typical Porsche. Through its proportions, the Panamera stands out in its market segment: measuring 76 inches wide and 55.8 inches in height, it is wider and lower than comparable four-door models. The unmistakable GT silhouette is created by the car's overall length of 195.7 inches and short, sporting overhangs. In its styling and details, the Panamera follows the design philosophy refined over decades on the 911 and successfully implemented on the Boxster, Cayman and Cayenne. Pure Porsche DNA and comfort for four Through its design language, the Panamera establishes a new segment. The symbiosis of sports car DNA derived from the looks of a coupe, the unique interpretation of the classical saloon body and the benefits of a variable space concept give the new Porsche a truly unmistakable appearance. For instance, Panamera comes with strongly contoured air intakes instead of a conventional radiator grille. Striking wheel arches and the long and sleek engine compartment, with the distinctly contoured wings flanking the flat front lid, create the typical 911 "landscape" Porsche customers have appreciated for over 45 years. V-shaped seams along the hood and a rear window that tapers like an arrow to the rear also are characteristic of a sports car. Muscular shoulders over the rear wheels, the sweep of the coupe-like roofline and visible tailpipes again bear the thoroughbred Porsche DNA. An elegant roof arch extends over the generous interior. Thanks to the unique and sporting architecture of the interior, the car's occupants are able to experience a cockpit-like atmosphere from all four seats. All occupants enjoy supreme comfort in both the front seats and the two contoured rear seats. The luggage compartment easily takes all passengers' luggage; the Panamera's variable space concept with folding rear backrests enables driver and passengers to
adjust the luggage space to individual requirements. Finally, the coupe tailgate in the sporting rear end combines everyday usability with stylish elegance. Panamera built in Leipzig; powerful engines hail from Zuffenhausen Porsche has developed powerful and up-to-date engines for the Panamera, reflecting the qualities typical of the brand; the V-engines come with six and eight cylinders and output ranges from 300 to 500 horsepower. Some engines use turbocharging technology and Direct Fuel Injection, making them both fuel-efficient and very powerful. Power flows to the wheels through either a manual six- speed gearbox or Porsche's seven-speed PDK Doppelkupplungsgetriebe, or Double-Clutch Gearbox. In addition to rear-wheel drive, the top version of the Panamera comes with even more sophisticated all-wheel drive, available on other models as an option. Porsche also is preparing a fuel-efficient version of the Panamera with hybrid drive. Further details on engines, transmissions, performance, prices and equipment will be disclosed next spring. The Porsche Panamera will be built at Porsche's Leipzig plant, where a 237,000-square-foot production hall and a logistics center currently are under construction. While the Panamera engines are built at Porsche's main plant in Zuffenhausen, painted bodyshells will be supplied by Volkswagen's Hanover plant. The Leipzig plant will then assemble the Panamera for final delivery, with an annual sales target of about 20,000 units. Porsche is once again cooperating with German suppliers, with some 70 percent of the car's components being created in Germany. The Panamera will make its world debut in spring 2009 and the first models will be at U.S dealers in the fall of next year. Porsche Cars North America, Inc. (PCNA) is based in Atlanta, Ga., is the exclusive importer of Porsche sports cars and sport utility vehicles for the United States. It is a wholly owned, indirect subsidiary of Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG, PCNA employs approximately 250 people who provide Porsche vehicles, parts, service, marketing and training for its 202 dealers. The dealers, in turn, provide Porsche owners with best-in-class service. Throughout its 60-year history, Porsche has developed numerous technologies that have advanced vehicle performance, improved safety and spurred environmental innovations within the automotive industry. The company continues to celebrate its heritage by adding to its long list of motorsports victories dating back to its first 24 Hours of Le Mans class win in 1951. Today, with more than 28,000 victories, Porsche is recognized as the world's most successful marquee in sports car racing. PCNA, which imports the iconic 911 series, the Boxster and Cayman sports cars and the Cayenne sport utility vehicles for the United States, strives to maintain a standard of excellence, commitment and distinction synonymous with its brand. ###

[Supercars.net, Auto Telegraaf via CarScoop]

Steve McQueen’s $2.3M Ferrari 250 GT Lusso: What Can Brown Do For You?

So Brad Pitt is set to play Steve McQueen in a biopic? Here’s the car he’ll have to master: McQueen’s 1963 Lusso. Some say it’s the most beautiful Ferrari ever built.

But a Ferrari in chestnut brown?

As far as I recall, these were my first words when I heard the news that Steve McQueen’s first Ferrari, chassis number 4891GT, was set to go on the auction block. While far from being a rosso corsa purist and nurturer of a great soft spot for midnight blue 612 Scagliettis, brown sounded all wrong for a Ferrari. Think brown and what’s the first thing that comes to mind? A UPS truck, no great friend of high-strung V12’s.

Little did I know that two years later, I would be looking at McQueen’s Lusso beneath the namesake for its paintjob—a chestnut tree—and realize that in person, it’s shockingly beautiful.

Not that it hails from a particularly hideous age of car design. Modena in the early Sixties was a proper Golden Age. The Lusso was the last act in Ferrari’s first great play, the 250, a ten-year-old construction by the time they introduced the Lusso in 1962. Since the first prototype had been tested in 1952, 250’s won everything there was to be won in road racing, to transcend mere cars and become the sort of objects car geeks approach with a visible trembling of the knee.