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2009 TechArt Magnum based on Porsche Cayenne Turbo



Technology, quality and design form the cornerstones of over 20 years of history for the renowned car enhancement company TECHART Automobildesign from Leonberg-Höfingen. At the Geneva Auto-Salon 2009, TECHART is presenting the new generation of the Magnum, based on the Cayenne Turbo S, complete with increased performance and uncompromising comfort.

The performance package T2.2 increases the overall engine output to 680 hp (500 kW). The maximum torque increases to 900 Nm at 4.200 rpm. This produces some impressive results: from 0 to 100 in 4.2 seconds. From 0 to 200 in 14.5 seconds. The maximum speed of the vehicle is 308 km/h.



Made entirely from high quality PUR-RIM material of original equipment manufacturer quality. The TECHART Magnum front apron confidently and powerfully emphasises the lines of this sports vehicle. Magnum fenders and sill panels create a fluid transition between the broad wheel arches. The air inlets supply the radiator and front brakes with optimal fresh air. The TECHART Magnum rear apron comes with an integrated diffuser. The two double-flow exhaust pipes of the TECHART stainless steel sports exhaust add a sporty touch to the striking rear of the vehicle. For sporty street use, the TECHART Sport air suspension module lowers the car body by 30 mm. The dynamic appearance is rounded off by the tyres: TECHART Formula and Formula II alloy wheel rims in a classic design from 20 to 23 inches.





The multi-functional TECHART day driving light system gives the Magnum an unmistakeable external appearance. The LED system consists of a combination of day driving lighting, side lighting, parking lighting and indicator lights. The automatic adaptation of the light strength to the selected driving light setting and the dimming of the day driving light when the vehicle is turning to ensure that the indicator lights stand out are typical features of the system. The LED technology is also characterised by its increased life span and energy saving features.

TECHART meets the highest standards in comfort and individuality with the exclusive de Sede of Switzerland range of interiors.



The new de Sede Classic S line creates a sophisticated Magnum interior and stands for top quality TECHART made-to-order production. The de Sede name has been synonymous with elite seating, the finest quality leather and unique design for over 50 years. The air-conditioned seats are a new feature. The innovative TECHART system ensures that the seats and back rests have always a pleasant temperature. The revised seat design emphasises the sense of luxury sportiness.

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Mazda RX8 Hydrogen



Late last month, Mazda delivered the first of 30 European-spec RX-8 Hydrogen RE cars. At a ceremony in the Norwegian capital of Oslo this week, the vehicles were accepted by Norwegian crown prince Haakon at the opening of one of two new hydrogen fueling stations in Oslo. These stations are part of a new hydrogen fueling infrastructure that Norway is building out along the route between Oslo on the eastern coast and Stavanger on the western North Sea coast.

Also on hand for the event was Norwegian Minister of Transportation, Ms. Liv Signe Navarsete, who drove off in the new RX-8 after the crown prince fueled it up for the first time. Being a dual-fuel car, the Hydrogen RE is capable of running on either hydrogen or gasoline. Besides the switch from right to left hand drive, the European version of the RX-8 also gets a manual transmission in place of the automatic in the Japanese version. Mazda plans to deliver the remaining cars beginning this summer.

Norway's Crown Prince attends historic event to open two new hydrogen filling stations on the Oslo-Stavanger route.
Norway's Minister of Transportation drives new Mazda RX-8 Hydrogen RE vehicle.
More RX-8 Hydrogen RE facelift vehicles will be delivered for leasing in Norway beginning this summer.

Leverkusen, 11 May 2009. Another environmentally focused solution from Mazda – a Norwegian-specification RX-8 Hydrogen RE – was unveiled today at an historic event in Oslo. The vehicle was unveiled as part of a ceremony celebrating the opening of the latest HyNor hydrogen filling stations. With this opening, Norway's national hydrogen project has taken a major step towards creating an extended hydrogen infrastructure along the 580 km Oslo to Stavanger route.

On hand at the ceremony were the Norwegian Crown Prince and the Norwegian Minister of Transportation, Ms. Liv Signe Navarsete. After the Crown Prince refuelled the car, Ms Navarsete drove the Mazda rotary-engine sports coupe from Oslo to the Drammen station on zero-emission hydrogen. After delivery of this first facelifted version of the RX-8 Hydrogen RE, Mazda will provide more Norwegian-spec vehicles to the HyNor project under commercial lease contracts beginning this summer.

Mazda also leases this environmental, four-seat sports coupe in Japan, but for the HyNor project it has been developed to meet Norwegian and European specifications with left hand drive and a manual transmission. The product of 18 years of Mazda hydrogen fuel research and development, it uses a dual-fuel rotary engine that allows you to switch between using hydrogen or petrol in areas with no hydrogen infrastructure.

This latest unveiling is just one of Mazda's environmentally-friendly technologies to be introduced as part of its 'Sustainable Zoom-Zoom' strategy; and includes such innovative products as next-generation clean diesel engines, and a fuel-saving idle-stop system called i-STOP.
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2010 Aston Martin DBS Volante



Aston Martin DBS Volante makes its debut at the 2009 Geneva Auto Salon. Completing the Aston Martin DBS line-up, the new Volante will afford customers the combination of the DBS’s already-established benchmark sports car characteristics with all the thrills of open-air motoring.

Broadening the DBS’s character, the Aston Martin DBS Volante will appeal to drivers who wish to combine the excitement of driving a finely-tuned sports car with the invigorating feeling of being open to the elements. This juxtaposition of ultimate performance and openness stirs the senses on any drive whether an exhilarating jaunt on favoured roads or cruising on lengthy journeys. ‘Volante’, meaning ‘moving with light rapidity’, perfectly defines the performance potential and the dynamic characteristics of the Aston Martin DBS Volante.



Featuring a motorised retractable fabric roof, the DBS’s beautiful profile is preserved whether up or down. When the roof is closed, it provides a warm comfortable ambience and when open, it neatly disappears behind the new tonneau cover at the touch of a button.

Conceived as a Volante from the outset, Aston Martin engineers opted for a fabric hood to closely follow the silhouette of the DBS coupe and due to its lightweight properties, minimise overall weight gain. Fully retractable in only 14 seconds and at up to speeds of 30 mph (48 km/h), the roof will automatically stow under the newly sculpted tonneau, maintaining the Aston Martin DBS Volante’s perfect form – hood up or down.









Power is provided by Aston Martin’s hand-built all alloy 6.0-litre V12 engine producing 510 bhp (380 kW / 517 PS), and 570 Nm (420 lb ft) of torque with a top speed of 191 mph (307 km/h) and 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) time of 4.3 seconds. The nature of the V12, and in particular the torque available at all engine speeds, serves to provide effortless driving in all situations.

Aston Martin’s 16th convertible in 95 years, the Aston Martin DBS Volante draws on the marque’s extensive experience in designing iconic ‘Volantes’ and is a 2+2 featuring two occasional rear seats, ideal for young people or extra luggage. In standard specification, the DBS has a rear-mounted six-speed manual gearbox, while an automatic six-speed ‘Touchtronic’ option is also available. As with the coupe, the Volante is offered with carbon ceramic brakes as standard providing exceptional stopping power. Benefitting from materials derived from the motorsport and aerospace industries, the bonnet, front wings and boot lid are made from carbon fibre all helping to reduce weight.

The Aston Martin DBS Volante also comes with Bang & Olufsen’s renowned ‘BeoSound DBS’ in-car entertainment system, featuring 13 speakers as standard equipment. The BeoSound DBS has been expertly tuned by Bang & Olufsen’s Tonmeisters and Aston Martin’s acoustic engineers specifically for the Volante resulting in a system that senses when the roof has been retracted and adjusts the sound stage to compensate for extra wind noise, providing an unrivalled automotive audio experience.

Although the DBS was originally conceived as a two-seater sports GT, the potential for a Volante version was always in the minds of the design team. Holding a purposeful stance, the muscular shapes and forms of the DBS have been retained exuding confidence.

Aston Martin’s 16th convertible, learning taken from the engineering of previous soft-top cars has resulted in the Aston Martin DBS Volante possessing Aston Martin’s quietest and most refined roof system to date. When raised, the fabric roof is insulated with a layer of Thinsulate® material relieving cabin noise and protecting the inhabitants from the elements. The hydraulic pump has been cocooned in a noise and vibration enclosure reducing noise when raising and lowering the hood.

The newly choreographed hood has resulted in an opening time of only 14 seconds due to a new five-piston hydraulic pump. The roof effortlessly stows below the newly-sculpted tonneau cover which has been redesigned to enhance the muscular attributes of the Aston Martin DBS Volante. Housing the Roll-Over-Protection-System (ROPS) which deploys two roll bars in the event of the car rolling over, the rear humps lead your eye to the new carbon fibre deck lid which has been re-styled for the Aston Martin DBS Volante. Particular to the DBS, a line flows from the leading edge of the bonnet past the elegantly sloped windscreen flowing into the carbon fibre deck lid and to the rear boot ‘flip’.

As with the DBS Coupe, the bonnet, front wings and boot lid are formed from carbon fibre. Preventing the weave protruding the paint finish, Aston Martin employs a patented ’surface veil’ technology applying a 200 micron thick layer of epoxy glue to the carbon fibre, before the application of seven layers of paint producing a class A level of finish.

The interior of the DBS represents the epitome of Aston Martin’s commitment to using materials honestly, without disguise or embellishment. Lightweight materials are used throughout to save weight; door pulls are made from carbon fibre, for example, and the carpet has been woven with lighter fibres to save valuable kilograms.

The Volante features 2+2 seating as standard. The beautifully leather trimmed rear seats are ideal for younger persons or extra luggage making the Aston Martin DBS Volante a practical everyday sports car.

Delivered as standard with Bang & Olufsen’s BeoSound DBS audio system and seamlessly integrated into the Aston Martin DBS Volante’s bespoke interior, the system provides the driver and passengers with an unrivalled audio experience. Consisting of 13 individual speakers and Bang & Olufsen’s unique Digital Signal Processing system, the system transforms the Aston Martin DBS Volante into an acoustically sophisticated venue, capable of conveying subtle and striking musical dynamics from every source. The BeoSound DBS has been specifically revised for the Aston Martin DBS Volante and senses when the roof is up or retracted and adjusts the sound stage to compensate for wind noise and change in acoustics.

The Bang & Olufsen BeoSound DBS system has been developed exclusively for Aston Martin. The system is acoustically and physically matched to the Aston Martin DBS Volante, with a design that follows the inherent quality and material honesty of the Aston Martin interior. The loudspeaker grilles are finished with smoothly contoured aluminium so as to integrate seamlessly with the fluid lines and curves of the cabin. When the system is turned on, the twin acoustic lens speakers emerge silently and swiftly, adding a touch of theatre and technological panache that is the perfect complement to the Aston Martin DBS Volante.

As with the coupe, the Volante affords customers the prospect of specifying the optional 10-spoke 20″ forged aluminium lightweight wheel with diamond-turned surface – available in either silver or graphite finishes. With an overall unsprung mass reduction of 8 kg, the option aids enhanced handling, improved acceleration, and braking performance.

The need for high-performance stability, handling ability and low kerb weight defined the DBS’s form and construction. The Aston Martin DBS Volante is powered by the same 6.0-litre V12 engine at the heart of the DBS which was launched in 2007. Producing 510 bhp (517 PS / 380 kW), peak power is delivered at 6500 rpm and the 570 Nm (420 lb ft) of torque is delivered at 5750 rpm. Tractable at any time, the DBS possesses a ‘flat’ torque curve providing 85% of the torque from 1500 rpm.

The 3.71:1 (manual) and 3.46:1 (Touchtronic) final drive ratio assures that all the Aston Martin DBS Volante’s power is useable, while also enhancing in-gear acceleration.

Adding to the sonorous V12 enhances the aural soundtrack. Special by-pass valves in the exhaust allow a quieter exhaust note at low speeds; at 4000 rpm these open to reduce the pressure in the exhaust system, raising the power output as well as generating a rousing aural accompaniment.

The Aston Martin DBS Volante is available as standard with a rear-mounted 6-speed manual gearbox with gear ratios optimised to extract the very best from the 6.0-litre engine. Providing customers with even greater personalisation capabilities, a ‘Touchtronic’ 6- speed automatic featuring a torque converter is also available as an option.

Derived from the same ZF transaxle unit that was developed for the Aston Martin DB9, the system has been substantially re-engineered to accommodate the power and performance characteristics of the DBS.

System functionality is consistent with that on the DB9, with ‘Park’, ‘Reverse’, ‘Neutral’ and ‘Drive’ modes selected via facia mounted controls.

When in ‘Drive’ mode, pulling either of the leather-trimmed magnesium alloy paddles mounted on the steering column will activate Touchtronic mode, enabling the driver to control gear shifts via the paddles. Touchtronic mode is also accessible directly on engine start-up. Alternatively, the ‘Drive’ mode can be selected at any time by pressing the ‘D’ control on the centre console, engaging a fully automatic mode which will select the most appropriate gear for the speed and driving conditions automatically.

The system also includes a ‘Sport’ mode – activated by a button on the centre console – which engages a more aggressive gear shift strategy as gear changes feel sharper and more forceful, engine speed matching on downshifts is more aggressive and in full automatic mode, upshifts occur at higher speeds. The Sport setting also incorporates a more responsive throttle map to match the high-performance characteristics of the Aston Martin DBS Volante.

Contributing to the class-leading levels of rigidity, the VH-platform (Vertical – Horizontal) upon which all Aston Martins are founded, ensures a dynamically accomplished convertible translating into an exciting and communicative chassis. The VH architecture is a bonded aluminium structure that provides outstanding strength and rigidity. In comparison to its coupe sibling, the Volante retains 75% of the rigidity equating to 20kNm per degree. This has been achieved by rigidly mounting the rear sub frame and optimising the front and rear shear panels. Working together these components contribute to more than 20% of the total torsional rigidity.

Augmenting the Aston Martin DBS Volante’s supreme handling characteristics is the near perfect weight distribution – achieved by mounting the 6-speed gearbox at the rear placing 85% of the weight between the front and rear axle.

To take full advantage of its extremely precise and rigid platform, the DBS employs a sophisticated Adaptive Damping System (ADS) which is specifically tuned for the Aston Martin DBS Volante maximising ride comfort. It uses two separate valves to set the dampers to five different positions, allowing instant adjustment of the car’s ride and handling characteristics. The ADS automatically alters the suspension settings to ensure the driver has high levels of control at all times, with the ability to respond instantly to different driving conditions. The dampers can be ’softer’, with a corresponding improvement in ride quality, or ‘firm’, providing improved body control for more spirited driving.

The damper settings are determined by an electronic control unit which takes sensor readings from the car’s systems, including throttle position, brake position, steering wheel rotation and vehicle speed. This data establishes the prevailing driving conditions and the demands the driver is making on the car.

The Aston Martin DBS Volante’s Adaptive Damping System perfectly captures the car’s sporting character, ensuring that stiffer dampers are available for better handling and control when the car is being driven enthusiastically, without compromising ride comfort during ‘normal’ driving conditions. A designated ‘Track’ mode automatically sets all dampers to their firmest positions, making it ideal for circuit driving. The DBS Volante is fitted with Pirelli P-Zero tyres that have been developed especially for the car.

The Aston Martin DBS Volante also has a revised Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) system specifically tuned to the Volante to help maintain maximum traction in challenging driving conditions. In default operation, the DSC is automatically on. Select and press the button for two seconds and DSC ‘Track’ mode is engaged, raising the threshold at which the system intervenes to allow the experienced driver to explore the car’s limits. Hold the button for four seconds and DSC is disengaged entirely.

Carbon Ceramic Matrix (CCM) brakes are featured as standard. Providing shorter stopping distances with excellent resistance to fade in even the most demanding driving conditions, the CCM brakes are some 12.5 kg lighter than a conventional system. This results in reducing the overall weight of the car and, in particular, the unsprung weight and rotational masses, further enhancing the Aston Martin DBS Volante’s dynamics.
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2009 ASMA Design Perfectus Mercedes McLaren SLR 722





Making claims of perfection is a dangerous thing to do, especially in the exclusive and demanding world of supercar tuning. But there is one man who can actually make this claim of perfection, and even go as far as to name his incredible automotive creation Perfectus. And this Designer is Erturul ASMA and this is his amazing, all carbon fiber ASMA Mercedes McLaren SLR 722.

Carbon is the customizing material of choice for hardcore tuners alike, but until the unveiling of Perfectus, no-one had truly used this most beautiful and powerful material to its full and awe-inspiring effect. But, as these stunning pictures can only prove, Erturul ASMA has taken the McLaren to entirely new levels of automotive theatre. In fact, thanks to Perfectus, you can forget about the world of top-end tuning here on Earth, and now, and only now, think in terms of an awesome new age of carbon customization.

Wide arch at over 2-metres in total width, with over 10cms of super-phat and super-sculpted carbon over each of the one-off ASMA rims, rims that are also mind-blowing in their dimensions. How does 325-25-20 out the back and 255-30-20 up front grab you? Hard! And once this stunning carbon design grabs you, it will never let you go. The wide ‘n’ wild completely custom carbon fiber bodywork is simply unmatched and unbeatable, anywhere in the world. Sharp, extra-aggressive F1-inspired bodylines take this SLR to whole new levels of road-presence; this SLR is always in full attack mode, making 700hp to back-up the ASMA Design styling.

Only Erturul ASMA can make and prove his claims of perfection, but he must also apologize… apologize to all the owners of standard SLRs everywhere, for there can be only one Perfectus.
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2009 Chevrolet Corvette GT1 Championship Edition



The GT1 Championship Editions Celebrates Corvette C6.R Racing Success
  • American Le Mans Series GT1 Manufacturers Champions for 8 years
  • 5 time 24 Hours of Le Mans GT1 Champions
  • Over 70 victories in ALMS racing
  • 2009 24 Hours of Le Mans race will close out this successful era






Included in the package:
C6.R livery inspired graphics feature Corvette Racing ‘Jake’, Championships, and driver flags
ZR1 style body color full width spoiler and chrome wheels
Custom Leather Wrapped Ebony Interior with exclusive Yellow accent stitching
GT1 embroidery on the leather seats, instrument panel, and center console armrest

-Special Engine Cover with carbon pattern and yellow Corvette lettering
-Windshield banner – owner installed









Available in either Coupe 4LT ($65,310), Convertible 4LT ($71,815), and Z06 3LZ ($86,385)

- Available in 45U Velocity Yellow (with black headlamps) or 41U Black

  • Specific VIN sequence 300001 series for 45U Velocity Yellow representing the #3 C6.R
  • Specific VIN sequence 400001 series for 41U Black representing the #4 C6.R
  • Limited production to 100 per each color and body style combination and 600 total in Spring ‘09
  • Coupe and Convertible versions also include: Z51 Performance Package, NPP Performance Exhaust
  • Optional MX0 6-speed Paddle Shift Automatic on Coupe and Convertible
  • Optional C2L dual roof package on Coupe
  • Optional U3U Navigation System on all
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2009 Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 Polizia










A private ceremony was held at the Viminale Palace where Automobili Lamborghini S.p.A. donated a police version of the company’s newest super sports car, Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 Polizia, to the head of the Italian State Police, Prefect Antonio Manganelli.

The new Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 Polizia, which replaces the previous Lamborghini Gallardo Police Car in use by the Italian police force since 2004 has a 560 horsepower engine that can reach speeds of up to 203 mph. The car will begin service with the Lazio Highway Police Department in order to continue accident and crime prevention to sustain security on the Italian roads.

Its predecessor is proof of Lamborghini’s outstanding product quality. Since 2004, Rome’s police force has had the first-generation Lamborghini Gallardo in regular police service. The sports car has clocked nearly 87,000 miles of patrol duty on the motorways of central and southern Italy, as well as on emergency medical transport detail.

A second Gallardo, painted in blue and white police colors, has been in service around Bologna, Italy since 2005. Its odometer already shows more than 62,000 miles. Aside from regular servicing, neither of the super sports cars has required major repairs.

In addition to the clearly effective deterrent offered by the presence and visibility of a Lamborghini on the highway, the technological equipment on board these vehicles makes them highly effective in the control of hazardous behaviour on the roads (high speeds, driving in the emergency lane, dangerous over-taking); the automatic recognition of number plate tracking and real-time transmission of images to the control rooms.

The cabin of the super sports car is fitted with the latest advancements in police technology to immediately document the evidence of any transgression. The video system is positioned in the center of the cabin with a camera fitted next to the rear view mirror and a computer and recording equipment behind the seats. As soon as police officers discover a suspicious driver, they activate the “Proof Video Data System.” With the help of GPS data, the device can calculate the location, direction of movement and speed of the Lamborghini. This combined with the distance and time before intercept, accurately determines the speed of the vehicle being pursued.

Using radio data transmission, the video system in the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 Polizia transfers its images in real time to the relevant police station. There, the videos are stored and used for automatic number plate retrieval. This information can be used for immediate identification of stolen vehicles.

In addition to its high tech equipment, the Gallardo is also fitted with the “classic” array of police equipment, such as a gun holster, police radio equipment and the “Paletta,” the traditional hand-held stop sign used to advise motorists and traffic offenders to pull over. Officers can then use a removable screen to show offenders their misdeeds immediately, complete with an overlay of all the associated data.

The Lamborghini is used regularly for urgent medical transportation too. The luggage compartment in the front of the vehicle is equipped with a specialized refrigeration system for safe transportation of donor organs. For extreme emergencies, there is also a defibrillator used to restore a normal heart rhythm to patients by delivering an electrical shock to the heart to stop massive cardiac arrhythmia or ventricular fibrillation, and thus save lives.

The 30 police officers permitted to drive the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 Polizia receive special training in the use of the Gallardo’s medical equipment. Each person on the special operations team – which includes three women – has undertaken several days of driver training with Lamborghini, under the leadership of the Lamborghini test drivers. The basis of trouble-free everyday operation is the exceptional safety of the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 with its permanent all-wheel drive and its refined chassis, which maintains stability even at the highest speeds. Lamborghini’s extremely high standards for product quality and reliability ensure that the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 Polizia is always ready for duty.

Now the successor is ready – a new generation Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 with the very latest in special equipment. The Lamborghini wears its uniform with pride, painted in accordance with requirements in “blu Polizia” – whereby the white stripes and lettering follow the Gallardo’s dynamic design angles. Its main patrol beat will once again be central and southern Italy, primarily on the motorway between Salerno and Reggio Calabria.

The police beacon on the roof of the Gallardo had to be aerodynamically optimized being that the new police car reaches a considerably higher top speed than regular service vehicles. Despite the extremely flat construction of the signal lighting, blue LEDs are fitted round the base to ensure the visual signal cannot be missed. The roof-mounted lighting is supported by further blue LED signals on the front, sides and rear of the light’s aluminium shell. A total of four sirens integrated into the front and rear of the Gallardo generate unmistakable audible warning signals.
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2009 Chevrolet Cruze WTCC



With a new global car on the way for 2009, the World Touring Car Championship is the perfect platform for Chevrolet to put its latest model in the public eye.

This is the new Cruze WTCC car, which replaces the successful Lacetti as Chevrolet’s contender in the 2009 series. Powered by a 2.0-litre petrol engine, the WTCC Cruze has a hard act to follow, as the Lacetti won its final two outings for Chevrolet in Macau.








But Chevrolet’s drivers are confident that the new car will be a top performer in the series, which has gained global recognition as one of the most exciting tin-top series since its inception in 2005.

British driver Rob Huff (28) from Newmarket, Suffolk, who has been with Chevrolet since it debuted in World Touring Cars said: ‘The Cruze is a great car and feels fast straight out of the box. We are obviously still at the very early stages of development but already I can feel how much better it handles and what an advantage the car’s wider track will be in a race environment.’

Rob will once again be joined in 2009 by Swiss racer Alain Menu and Italian Nicola Larini. All three drivers also drove for Chevrolet in 2008.

The cars will be prepared for Chevrolet by RML Motorsport. The Wellingborough, Northants-based company has a history of motorsport involvement with Chevrolet’s parent company, General Motors, and has looked after Chevrolet’s WTCC involvement since 2005.

The Chevrolet Cruze, on which the 2009 WTCC car is based, will go on sale in the UK during the first half of next year, and will be sold in over 130 countries worldwide. It is one of Chevrolet’s most important new models ever, as it clearly illustrates a new level of styling and quality for the brand, both in Europe and in the USA.

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2009 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Sideswipe Concept



SIDESWIPE takes the form of a sleek, vision concept dreamed up by the Corvette designers at GM. The design is influenced by the original Stingray race car, introduced in 1959, but also draws on Corvette heritage cues from other generations. It brings them together in a futuristic shape that seems to be equal parts racecar and space ship.





“SIDESWIPE represents an exercise in exploration for the Corvette,” said Ed Welburn, vice president of GM Global Design. “By giving my creative team the freedom to design no-holds-barred vision concepts, it helps them push boundaries and look at projects from different perspectives.”





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2009 BMW M3 Race Version






Powered by a 485 bhp eight cylinder engine, this impressive race car has been designed to compete in the American Le Mans Series (ALMS) beginning in 2009. BMW M3 is based on the fourth generation of the BMW M3, the high-performance sports car produced by BMW M GmbH.

In the course of developing the race version of the BMW M3, BMW’s engineers were faced with an ambitious task: to improve upon the sportiness of an already sporting car. A better base would, though, be difficult to find. In standard form the vehicle delivers powerful dynamics and sporting aesthetics. Thanks to an eight cylinder engine producing 414 bhp, BMW’s customers are provided with a unique driving experience.

Those engine blocks, cast in BMW’s light alloy foundry in Landshut – the very source of BMW’s Formula One castings – selected for race duty need to withstand even more power: the BMW P65 race engine delivers 485 bhp.

In order to enable the BMW M3 to make full use of this performance on the race circuit, the experts in Munich have not concentrated solely on the engine, but have race-tuned the chassis as well. The race version of the BMW M3 is wider and significantly lighter than its production equivalent, enabling it to perfectly transmit the power of its V8 to the track. Widespread use of carbon-reinforced plastic (CRP) provides proof of substantial weight reduction. As with the production version, the race car’s roof is manufactured from this high-tech material.

The race version of the BMW M3 is clearly aimed at the top echelon of motorsport. As such, it is no surprise to discover that in the course of its development, begun in mid-2007, numerous Formula One techniques were applied. These include computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and wind tunnel analyses, both of which have ensured the best possible aerodynamic package for the BMW M3.

Intelligent control systems have been incorporated throughout the BMW M3. The POWER400 control unit actuates all the accessories fitted to the car, such as lights, wipers, etc., via two bus systems. Traditional relays and fuses are thus eliminated, ensuring considerable weight saving, improved reliability and ease of application. The functions of the BMW P65 engine are managed by an ECU 408 electronic control unit, developed in-house by BMW Motorsport. The software and applications, too, have been developed by the experts in Munich.

An intensive test program, during which the performance of the race car will be honed by BMW Motorsport, looms for the BMW M3 over the coming months. Development drivers will be BMW works drivers Andy Priaulx (GBR), Jörg Müller (GER) and Augusto Farfus (BRA), currently racing in the FIA World Touring Car Championship (WTCC). The aim is, after all, for the BMW M3 to be an immediate front-runner upon its comeback to the American Le Mans Series.
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2009 Saab 9-3X



The Saab 9-3X is available with a choice of two engines: the punchy 1.9TTiD diesel engine produces 180PS and 400Nm of torque, or the 2.0-litre petrol turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 210hp, with the additional benefit of Saab’s technically advanced Cross Wheel Drive system (XWD). This model costs from £25,995. Saab’s bold, dynamic design language is visible throughout the 9-3X, as well as a host of technology that provides more safety and improved dynamics for drivers including ESP and ABS, with cross wheel drive (XWD) available on the 2.0T engine.

All models also come with high levels of equipment, including leather & textile sport seats, heated front seats, cruise control, 9-speaker audio system with MP3 compatibility, sport leather steering wheel, dual-zone electronic climate control, car computer, matt chrome roofrails and 17” alloy wheels. Competitive pricing has never been more topical, and the good news for Saab customers is the much-awaited new 9-3X has stormed the crossover sector with an entry price of just £24,995 for the 1.9TTiD model.









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2009 Chrysler GEM Peapod



Clean and green transportation gets a new look and feel as Peapod introduces the next generation of clean, gas-free and emission-free, battery electric vehicles.

The vehicle’s innovative, groundbreaking design, with its striking podlike shape and sleek lines, reflects its environmentally friendly nature.



The user-friendly mood of the vehicle, named Peapod, is enhanced with the newly designed center console that will offer iPod integration, as well as handsfree operation of the customer’s iPhone. Other innovations include ergonomic, supportive, mesh seating, which enables air circulation for comfort and uses ecofriendly recycled and recyclable materials.



The Peapod is scheduled for production in 2009. The Peapod represents the first in a series of product launches that will redefine the future of electric vehicles.

Peapod zero-emission electric vehicles can be used in settings such as city centers, planned communities, military bases, college campuses, corporate and commercial centers, and city, state and national parks.

Peapod neighborhood electric vehicles have a top speed of 25 miles per hour, a range of up to 30 miles per charge (battery charge is extended through use of regenerative braking) and are street legal in more than 40 states. The vehicles can be recharged anytime, anywhere with a standard 110-volt outlet. Recharge time is approximately six to eight hours.

By replacing conventional vehicles, Peapod vehicles can reduce overall emissions of pollutants, particularly during short trips when conventional vehicles create the most tailpipe emissions.



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