The New Lamborghini Gallardo Superleggera

Lamborghini News
The New Lamborghini Gallardo Superleggera
By source: Lamborghini Boston
Feb 26, 2007, 12:29

- The sportiest and most ‘purist’ Gallardo ever
- The new more powerful and lightweight series leader

Sant’Agata Bolognese, Italy - With the Gallardo Superleggera, Automobili Lamborghini presents an uncompromisingly high-performance sports car. Thanks to increased power (an additional 10 hp) and a 100 kg reduction in weight (USA 70 kg), the new range-leading Gallardo Superleggera is even more dynamic than the already very sporty Gallardo. The weight/power ratio of the Lamborghini Gallardo Superleggera is only 2.5 kg/hp, which puts it unquestionably at the top.
The Superleggera also has the fastest acceleration in its class. It needs only 3.8 seconds to go from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph); 0.2 seconds less than the basic model, and boasting speed and grit under other driving conditions.
The Lamborghini Gallardo Superleggera is an extremely high-performance car: it includes a standard robotized mechanical ‘e-gear’ gearbox that guarantees shifting without removing hands from the steering wheel. The new Gallardo Superleggera can be ordered through the dealer network starting March 2007: production volumes will be restricted to lower numbers than the standard Gallardo.



More power thanks to technological developments
The Lamborghini Gallardo Superleggera’s engine is the latest version of Lamborghini’s well-known 4,961 cm3 V10. Now 530 hp is reached in 8,000 min-1. The increase in power was made possible by the engine’s improved volumetric efficiency through reduced intake load losses and by exhaust backpressures, together with optimized electronic control. Naturally, emission levels observe the strict EURO 4 and LEV II standards.



Higher power thanks to lighter construction
Lamborghini engineers decreased the Lamborghini Gallardo’s already low weight when empty (1,430 kg) by another 100 kg using advanced materials and technologies. The engine hood is made of visible carbon fiber and transparent polycarbonate, a type of material that guarantees lightness and also shows off the magnificent V10. The rear diffuser and underbody covering, the rearview mirrors, door panels and the central tunnel’s covering are also made of carbon fiber. Further reductions in weight were achieved by replacing certain glass surfaces with transparent polycarbonate. For the interior, monocoque carbon fiber sports seats covered in Alcantara® were chosen to ensure restraint of the driver and passenger during the intense lateral accelerations that the Gallardo Superleggera is capable of achieving around curves.



Exclusive specification and options range
A comprehensive specification and extensive range of options will be available, with some exclusive to the Superleggera. The Lamborghini Gallardo Superleggera comes with robotized mechanical e-gear as standard; a sports package including shock absorbers; and special suede-covered steering wheel. The car is available in four colors: Midas Yellow, Borealis Orange, Telesto Gray and Noctis Black. Pirelli P Zero Corsa tires (standard) on new Scorpius forged rims accentuate the Lamborghini Gallardo Superleggera. A few of the options that can be requested include the multimedia system with navigator and CD-changer; a rear video camera to make parking easier (with optional rear wing only); a Carbon accessories kit for the interior; a fixed rear spoiler; a four-point seatbelt (not for USA); tubular rear frame or fitting points for later inclusion (not for USA, Japan or Middle East); and carbon-ceramic brakes.

Fisker To Introduce New GT Coupe at Geneva Show

Geneva bound! Henrik Fisker's Artega GT Coupe

Posted Feb 28th 2007 9:32AM by Chris Shunk
Filed under: Concept Cars, Convertibles, Coupes, Geneva Motor Show, Supercars

New models scheduled for Geneva are beginning to pile up and the Autobloggers headed to Europe are looking luckier and luckier by the day. We told you a few months back about an upcoming Fisker supercar, and it looks like the Artega GT Coupe is that vehicle. Equipped with a VW-derived 3.6L V6, power will come in at around 300 hp. Those are some pretty lousy numbers for a supercar, but this Fisker isn't very big. At 13 feet long and 6 feet wide, the Artega is about the same size as a Mazda MX-5 and at less than four feet tall it is about the same height as a Lamborghini Gallardo. Top speed of the Artega GT Coupe is estimated at 165 mph.

Henrik Fisker helped design many of the current Aston Martins on the road today which makes every future vehicle he pens worth mentioning. The Fisker Tramonto and Latigo CS were great-looking too, but their basic shape and stance were borrowed from the Mercedes Benz SL55 AMG and the BMW M6. The Artega GT Coupe is definitely a departure from what Fisker has done in the past, but it just isn't ground-breaking. No word yet if the Artega will share a platform like the Tramanto or Latigo but we think there's a good chance that's the case. Production will reach 500 units per year and the price tag should be around €75,000.

Lamborghini Gallardo Superleggera revealed!

Lamborghini Gallardo Superleggera revealed!

Posted Feb 26th 2007 11:42PM by Damon Lavrinc
Filed under: Supercars, Lamborghini

Click the image for five high res images

The cat, errr, bull is out of the bag, with both images and the press release about the Lamborghini Gallardo Superleggera circulating the web. The 'purist' Gallardo gets an extra 10 hp and 154 fewer pounds (in U.S. trim), allowing the Italian hyper car to sprint to 60 in 3.8 seconds, .2 seconds less than the standard Gallardo. The weight reduction comes from swapping out a number of components with carbon fiber bits, including the wing mirrors, door panels, engine cover and the central tunnel's covering. After the diet, the Superleggera tips the scales at just 3,152 pounds -- 5.5 pounds/hp.

Those of you financially solvent enough to put a down payment on the lightweight Lambo should read the press release after the jump, since you'll want all the details before orders are accepted next month.

Gallery: Lamborghini Gallardo Superleggera

PRESS RELEASE

Sant'Agata Bolognese, Italy - With the Gallardo Superleggera, Automobili Lamborghini presents an uncompromisingly high-performance sports car. Thanks to increased power (an additional 10 hp) and a 100 kg reduction in weight (USA 70 kg), the new range-leading Gallardo Superleggera is even more dynamic than the already very sporty Gallardo. The weight/power ratio of the Lamborghini Gallardo Superleggera is only 2.5 kg/hp, which puts it unquestionably at the top.

The Superleggera also has the fastest acceleration in its class. It needs only 3.8 seconds to go from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph); 0.2 seconds less than the basic model, and boasting speed and grit under other driving conditions.
The Lamborghini Gallardo Superleggera is an extremely high-performance car: it includes a standard robotized mechanical 'e-gear' gearbox that guarantees shifting without removing hands from the steering wheel. The new Gallardo Superleggera can be ordered through the dealer network starting March 2007: production volumes will be restricted to lower numbers than the standard Gallardo.

More power thanks to technological developments
The Lamborghini Gallardo Superleggera's engine is the latest version of Lamborghini's well-known 4,961 cm3 V10. Now 530 hp is reached in 8,000 min-1. The increase in power was made possible by the engine's improved volumetric efficiency through reduced intake load losses and by exhaust backpressures, together with optimized electronic control. Naturally, emission levels observe the strict EURO 4 and LEV II standards.

Higher power thanks to lighter construction
Lamborghini engineers decreased the Lamborghini Gallardo's already low weight when empty (1,430 kg) by another 100 kg using advanced materials and technologies. The engine hood is made of visible carbon fiber and transparent polycarbonate, a type of material that guarantees lightness and also shows off the magnificent V10. The rear diffuser and underbody covering, the rearview mirrors, door panels and the central tunnel's covering are also made of carbon fiber. Further reductions in weight were achieved by replacing certain glass surfaces with transparent polycarbonate. For the interior, monocoque carbon fiber sports seats covered in Alcantara® were chosen to ensure restraint of the driver and passenger during the intense lateral accelerations that the Gallardo Superleggera is capable of achieving around curves.

Exclusive specification and options range
A comprehensive specification and extensive range of options will be available, with some exclusive to the Superleggera. The Lamborghini Gallardo Superleggera comes with robotized mechanical e-gear as standard; a sports package including shock absorbers; and special suede-covered steering wheel. The car is available in four colors: Midas Yellow, Borealis Orange, Telesto Gray and Noctis Black. Pirelli P Zero Corsa tires (standard) on new Scorpius forged rims accentuate the Lamborghini Gallardo Superleggera. A few of the options that can be requested include the multimedia system with navigator and CD-changer; a rear video camera to make parking easier (with optional rear wing only); a Carbon accessories kit for the interior; a fixed rear spoiler; a four-point seatbelt (not for USA); tubular rear frame or fitting points for later inclusion (not for USA, Japan or Middle East); and carbon-ceramic brakes.

Tramontana Super Exotic

Geneva Motor Show: Tramontana supercar cometh

Posted Feb 27th 2007 8:59AM by Chris Shunk
Filed under: Concept Cars, Geneva Motor Show, Supercars

Some would say that the Tramontana supercar looks like a mating experiment between the Plymouth Prowler and the Batmobile. We'll call the looks "unique". Either way, this one-seater will be fast and it will be light. We dig the open wheel look, and the wood accents on the exterior are way sweeter than the Griswald's station wagon, but more than anything else, it's the power that gets our attention. A 12-cylinder twin-turbo engine is sweet in just about any application, but mated to a vehicle with room for one seat and carbon-fiber to reduce weight and you've got a freaking rocket on wheels. You even get to choose your output by switching between 542 and 710 hp.

Love the looks or hate them, the new supercar from Tramontana should be very interesting for whomever is looking out from behind the driver's wheel. The press release is available after the jump.

[Source: Tramontanagroup.com via Winding Road]

Gallery: Tramontana

a.d.TRAMONTANA, presents its production model in the 77th Geneva International Motorshow 2007
Tramontana: half formula 1, half fighter.

First it was the idea, then the model, later the prototype and now, finally, the final genesis has come: the first Tramontana is already ready for its international presentation. Journalists of the whole world are going to meet in the Geneva Motor Show to see, touch and hear for the first time the Tramontana, the only exclusive sports car of Spanish manufacture.

That's right. The Tramontana is already ready for its world debut next 8. March. A.d. TRAMONTANA, the Catalan company that has created it, after years of investigation and development presents the definitive version, and we are not in presence of just any vehicle: the Tramontana does not answer to the classic super-sports car, the best arguments of a formula 1 and a fighter have met together with an aesthetics inspired by the beauty of the
classic ones that marked a historical milestone.

The result? A car of a great technical precision, with a personalized design, 100 % handcrafted for a highly qualified team of professionals. Undoubtedly, a new kind of car for which still a name does not exist, since it
represents a new step in the evolution of its specie.

It is enough to observe the aesthetics to realize its exclusivity, where conjugate retro elements, material of last generation like carbon and magnesium with traditional elements like wood, white gold or leather, without forgetting its high number of customizations. But if
we concentrate on the details, the idea still acquires more force.

Among the definitive solutions of the Tramontana, we find a new electronic system, with full silver wiring and a central engine V12 Biturbo capable of offering a power of 550 CV and 720 CV selectable.

Regarding safety, it is the only sports car of the market that incorporates a carbonfibre monocoque inspired by the design of a formula 1 and made with the same criteria, guaranteeing a high protection to its passengers. A monocoque with 8 deformable zones calculated for the absorption of the impact energy.

On the other hand, this monocoque contributes a lightness and maximum rigidity to the whole, factor that together with its suspension system, only on its market of double wishbones with pushrod and a great length of arms, improves the dynamical aptitudes of the vehicle.

All this elaborated with materials of last generation of aerospace technology like the steel to the cromolibdenium, magnesium and duraluminium.

All this is only a sample of what turns the Tramontana into a special car, a tailored jewel in order that its future owner can feel the best sensations, both urban and sports. A.d.TRAMONTANA has wanted to wait to the Geneva Motorshow to present the new development of the Tramontana.

In this manner, the Swiss city will become the scene which is going to approach the world to this new star of the exclusive super sports cars.

Cadillac 16 Is Alive

The question comes down to:
Do you continue to squeeze more profit out of building cars that no one will buy (like the bean counters have been doing for years)?

Or...

Do you make cars that people want to buy and sell more to increase your profitability?

I hope that they do bring this car out just to go head to head with Maybach and Bentley. They need to do it better than they do... just like the Cadillac of old.

What do you think?

Brad
____________________________________________________

Lutz: Camaro could spawn big Caddy

Posted Feb 26th 2007 6:56AM by Chris Tutor
Filed under: Concept Cars, Cadillac

The Car Connection spoke to GM vice chairman Bob Lutz at the Chicago Auto Show who told them a bigger, badder Cadillac built on the new Camaro chassis could be in the works. Lutz said the reason Camaro's expected on-sale date was delayed was so that the platform could be better integrated with future products.

While Lutz never utters the name "Sixteen" in the conversation, we just have to wonder if the ultra luxury Caddy is what GM has in mind. We reported back in December that GM had absolutely no plans for the Cadillacs of Cadillacs, but maybe, just maybe, Lutz has changed the beancounters' minds and the company will, after all, make real the Sixteen concept.

Interview with Freeman Thomas director, North American Strategic Design, Ford

Listen to Freeman Thomas's overview of the Airstream hybrid (electric-hydrogen powered) minivan:

click here to see this video

Interview with the Head Designer at Audi Stefan Sielaff

Click here for the video link

Shutterbug took 'Vette for joyride

Shutterbug took 'Vette for joyride

Eric Morath / The Detroit News

A Romulus loading dock worker not only took spy photos of a top-secret Chevrolet Corvette -- he took the super high-performance sports car for a test drive, according to a police report.

The employee drove the prototype car, valued at $1 million, around a parking lot on Monday, and used a camera phone to take some 23 photos of the vehicle, the report states.

The report was obtained Friday by the gmsource.com automotive blog and posted to its Web site. Romulus police would not release the report to The Detroit News on Friday afternoon, saying it was part of an ongoing investigation.

The incident took place at the Central States Trucking Co.'s facility near Detroit Metropolitan Airport the day before the vehicle was shipped to Germany

Several photos showing the Corvette's exterior and engine began appearing Thursday on auto enthusiast Web sites. The police report specifically said the pictures were sent to fast-autos.net.

Pictures were removed from that site at Central States Trucking's request, but remained on other sites, such as www.jalopnik.com.

The car was identified as a prototype of the 2009 Corvette SS, a 600-plus horsepower supercar dubbed the "Blue Devil," after General Motors CEO Rick Wagoner's alma mater, Duke University.

The police report said the loading dock worker was fired and civil action may be pending. He had worked for Central States Trucking since June.

A source close to the situation, who asked not to be identified, said it is odd that such a highly sensitive vehicle was packed in such an unsecured fashion, to the point it could be driven, rather than completely crated.

Automakers have struggled in recent years to keep a lid on photos of cars in development as Web sites aimed at auto enthusiasts have proliferated.

GM spokesman Terry Rhadigan would not confirm that the photos that appeared online were of the Corvette prototype. He also said he didn't believe it was GM that called police about the illicit photos. He said GM is continuing to investigate how the photos were leaked.

"Clearly this is a security violation," he said. "But we're still in the midst of investigation. As far as any next step, we're not in position to talk about that."

A receptionist at Central State Trucking's Bensenville, Ill., headquarters said company officials would not discuss the situation.

Rhadigan said he didn't know how police came to value the car at $1 million and said not all concept cars are valued at that amount.

A production Corvette Z06 starts at $70,000.

The Internet has been abuzz in recent weeks with speculation about GM's rumored development of a 600-plus horsepower Corvette supercar.

Lambo Spiga CGI Concept Photos

You have all got to check out these concept renderings... this is a beautiful:

Click here

GM investigates how photos of secret, 600-hp Corvette got online

GM investigates how photos of secret, 600-hp Corvette got online

The Detroit News

General Motors Corp. is investigating how photos of a vehicle identified as a top-secret, super high-performance Chevrolet Corvette showed up on several Web sites Thursday.

Several photos of the Corvette that showed both its exterior and engine began appearing Thursday on auto enthusiast Web sites such as Autoblog.com, Jalopnik.com and thegmsource.com. It's unclear where the photos were first posted.

The car was identified as a prototype of the 2009 Corvette SS, a 600-plus horsepower supercar dubbed by some as the "Blue Devil," after GM CEO Rick Wagoner's alma mater, Duke University.

GM spokesman Terry Rhadigan confirmed the automaker is investigating a possible "breech of security" but would not confirm the vehicle in the photos was a Corvette supercar prototype. "We don't comment on future products," he said.

He said GM believes the photos were snapped in Romulus by an employee of a transport company that was in the process of shipping the vehicle.

Rhadigan said GM could not confirm numerous Web reports that the employee was arrested Thursday by Romulus police. A Romulus police spokesman declined to comment Thursday night.

"We acted on what was an alleged breech of security," Rhadigan said. "We are still piecing it all together."

The Internet has been abuzz in recent weeks with speculation about GM's rumored development of a 600-plus horsepower Corvette supercar. GM Vice Chairman Bob Lutz hinted in January that such a car was in the works, but it has not been officially announced.

Automakers have struggled in the recent years to keep a lid on photos of cars in development as Internet sites aimed at auto enthusiasts have proliferated.

"We do take it seriously," Rhadigan said. "We are a car company that has a lot of confidential future products in various stages of development. We rely on security to keep those products confidential."

GM is asking some Web sites to take the photos down, Rhadigan said.

Autoblog.com said on its site it removed the photos out of fear of incurring GM's wrath.

Mercedes Benz- Virtual Prototyping article from Autoweek

This is a very interesting article... click on links for the photos or just link straight to the Autoweek article.

Brad
_____________________________________________

A digital prototype of a C-Class is projected onto a wall in 3-D for aerodynamic analysis.
http://cwimg.sv.publicus.com/apps/pbcsi.dll/bilde?Site=CW&Date=20070223&Category=FREE&ArtNo=70216009&Ref=AR&Profile=1528&MaxW=800

Virtual C Voyage
Mercedes-Benz ups the ante in digital prototyping


By KEVIN A. WILSON

AutoWeek | Updated: 02/16/07, 2:03 pm et
Automotive engineers and designers have been using computers to develop new cars for more than 20 years now, but Mercedes-Benz has taken the game to a whole new level with the 2008 C-Class, building a complete digital prototype in what it claims is an industry first. No other automaker has contested the claim—in fact, quite a few have scheduled visits to Sindelfingen to see how it works.

Just how “complete” is the digital prototype? Complete enough that, with the assistance of a pair of simulators, engineers were able to evaluate ride and handling months before the construction of real cars.

By these means, said Luger Dragon, senior manager for vehicle dynamics in the passenger-car development department, the company was able to ensure that its first prototypes of the car were already far advanced before the on-road evaluation and development process began. Dragon emphasized, however, that the digital model does not replace real-world testing. In fact, the new C-Class has undergone an unprecedented 15 million miles of on-road evaluation and development, and yet it arrives on the market only seven years after the previous all-new C-Class. It thereby marks a return, ironically enough, to an emphasis on real-world development testing, which was central to the company’s reputation for quality in the pre-digital era.

In 1989, when Mercedes-Benz did its first significant computer simulations of a car to evaluate crash safety, performance and fuel economy, a digital model of the W124 E-Class (originally designed without computer modeling) contained 25,000 elements; its successor, the W210, had three times that many elements in 1994. At the time, Mercedes-Benz emphasized how digital modeling was allowing it to speed up its product cycle to better address market demands. Previously, Mercedes could deliver an all-new model only every 12 years or so on average. The W124 had a 10-year run, and the W201, the original 190 “baby Benz,” ran from 1982 to 1993.

To tune the car's handling, engineers created a digital road model by laser-scanning a real road.
The digital prototype used for the C-Class W204, the production car that makes its public debut at next month’s Geneva auto show, is orders of magnitude beyond those early efforts. It contains 1.9 million elements, just in the structural model—like that for the 1994 E-Class—used for crash evaluation. The entire digital prototype incorporates many more aspects of the vehicle than were even dreamed of in 1994. It holds more than 2130 gigabytes of data, incorporating everything from shock-absorber characteristics to engine internal components, from driveline cooling and cabin climate-control systems to an aerodynamic model that maps 30 million points on the car’s exterior.

To facilitate cooperation among designers, engineers and outside suppliers, the prototype can be viewed in 3-D form in specially equipped “PowerWall” rooms at the Mercedes-Benz engineering center in Sindelfingen. Wearing special glasses to view the 3-D model projected on the wall, workers can rotate and zoom the image to examine specific details. Although the entire digital prototype is never really loaded into computers at one time (that would take supercomputers, while the system used is a network of desktop workstations), the elements are interactive. So it is possible to model, say, the aerodynamic effects at high speed while evaluating the handling or the engine cooling system. The prototype is broken down into 10 major segments: ride and handling; noise, vibration and harshness; body durability; crash; suspension dynamics and durability; thermal verification for the entire vehicle, including engine and brake cooling; energy management; climate control; engine processes and powertrain, and airflow aerodynamics.

One example shown to journalists was a model of the climate-control system and its air ducts, complete with the airflow pattern inside the cabin and the temperature and air velocity at each point, adjusted for distance traveled from the duct and absorption by the interior components, including four human occupants. This model was used to tune differing characteristics for different markets. The car can be set up to operate in modes that suit the European preference for a uniform cabin temperature or, as more commonly desired by American customers, to direct a warmer airflow into the footwell in winter or a cold stream from the dashboard vents in summer.

The exterior aerodynamic model includes the underbody and even rotating wheels, making it the virtual equivalent of a rolling-road wind tunnel. Engineers credit the digital prototyping process for helping them achieve a 0.27 Cd, in part by shaping small extensions for the frame to prevent airflow from traveling up into the wheel wells at both the front and the rear. More impressively, the aero model also was used to fine-tune the airflow so that the rear window, exterior mirrors and taillight lenses are self-cleaning. Rather than depositing dirt on these vital areas, as many cars do, the airflow around these components actually works to clean them.


To evaluate ride and handling characteristics, real humans go for a virtual "comfort test drive."
To begin development of the ride and handling characteristics, engineers used a digital road-surface model. The example demonstrated was devised by driving a truck equipped with exacting 3-D laser measuring equipment over a challenging two-lane road through the Black Forest, a stretch commonly used for decades now by Mercedes-Benz development engineers when evaluating vehicles. Then the digital prototype was “driven” over this road using a ride simulator that induces motion with fast-reacting electric motors. Digital models of the predecessor C-Class and key competitors, using data acquired by driving on the road in those cars, also were loaded into this simulator for comparison purposes.

While we won’t drive the real car until after the Geneva show, we have “ridden” in the new model on the simulator. The value of real-world testing was demonstrated by back-to-back “trips” over the same stretch of digital road using both the original digital proto-type and data captured during a drive of the same road with a real car. The improvement was evident, and the ride quality was superior to that of two competitors (not identified but thought to be the Audi A4 and the BMW 3 Series). The original digital model that preceded the construction of the prototypes rode somewhat like a mid-market sedan—say, a Hyundai Sonata or a Ford Fusion—while the final version had the smoother, more controlled ride motions of the near-luxury class in which the C competes.

Handling and braking, including the interaction among electronic assistance devices, were similarly tested—long before a real-world prototype was built—in an advanced driving simulator capable of giving the test drivers full simulations of the g-forces. We didn’t get to test that system—instead, we’ll drive the production models next month.

VW Isn't Interested In Buying Chrysler...

Article Link

Associated Press
VW: We're Not Interested in Chrysler
By MATT MOORE 02.23.07, 8:06 AM ET

If DaimlerChrysler AG is seeking a buyer for its struggling Chrysler Group, its choices among its counterparts is shrinking - but it may be drawing interest from several private equity groups.

Other automakers have been ruling themselves out, the latest being Germany's Volkswagen AG, after the Renault-Nissan auto alliance and Hyundai Motor Co. said earlier they were not interested in the American side of the world's fifth-largest automaker.

Christine Ritz, a spokeswoman for Wolfsburg-based Volkswagen, said Friday that Europe's biggest automaker was not interested in acquiring the unit, if it is indeed put up for sale.

DaimlerChrysler AG, which said last week that all options were on the table for its U.S. division, is planning to offer detailed financial information about Chrysler only to selective buyers, The Wall Street Journal reported Friday.

The car maker and its investment bank, JPMorgan Chase & Co., are working together to explore a sale, the paper reported, citing only people familiar with the matter.

Meanwhile, at least four private-equity groups have had preliminary talks about buying Chrysler, according to a report in the Financial Times newspaper.

Apollo Management, the Blackstone Group, Carlyle Group and Cerberus Capital Management, along with several European private-equity groups, were contacted about a potential buyout before DaimlerChrysler announcement, the newspaper said, also citing people familiar with the matter.

DaimlerChrysler had no comment Friday. The company has kept mum since announcing last week that it had not ruled out any options for Chrysler - which, until a year ago, had kept the automaker profitable amid quality issues at the Mercedes Car Group.

But a failure to discern American consumers' changing tastes for more fuel-efficient models instead of light trucks led the German-American automaker to announce plans to eliminate 13,000 jobs in the U.S. and Canada, or about 16 percent of its work force, and shutter a plant in Delaware in a bid to shave costs.

Chairman Dieter Zetsche, who brought Chrysler back from the brink before taking over the entire company at the beginning of 2006, has said that all possibilities were open for the Auburn Hills, Michigan-based unit.

DaimlerChrysler's fourth-quarter earnings plunged 40 percent on weaker demand at the Chrysler unit, where sales fell 7 percent. Chrysler had an operating loss of euro1.12 billion ($1.47 billion) for the year, compared to a profit of euro1.53 billion in 2005.

Chrysler Group Chief Executive Tom LaSorda told the company's U.S. and Canadian dealers on Thursday that Chrysler will make it through the current tough times.

He said the company will continue to invest $5.7 billion (euro4.35 billion) to $6 billion (euro4.58 billion) per year on future products, rolling out 20 all-new vehicles during the next three years and 12 updated ones between now and 2009.

"Do these sound like the actions of a company uncertain about its future?" he asked. "Obviously not."

Shares of DaimlerChrysler were down more than half a percent to euro52.90 ($69.33) in Frankfurt trading while Volkswagen shares fell 0.1 percent to euro94.69 ($124.10).

Copyright 2006 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed

Stefan Chmara's Car Collection Open House

Go to this link and see what you missed out on last night....

I hope that you enjoy these photos.

Brad

Employee Fired For Taking Photos of the Corvette SS

Shipping company employee carted off to jail for Corvette SS pics

Posted Feb 22nd 2007 6:02PM by John Neff
Filed under: Sports/GTs, Etc., Supercars, Chevrolet, GM

We've just learned that EMO TRANS, the shipping company that was hired by General Motors to transport a Corvette SS mule to Germany for testing on the Nurburgring, has fired the employee who took pictures of the vehicle and posted them on the internet. In addition, the unnamed employee has been taken to jail, though we don't know what charges have been filed against him. For our part, we've removed the pics from Autoblog for fear of GM's wrath. The automaker has been reportedly approaching various sites all day requesting the images be removed, so rather than waiting for the phone to ring we've gone ahead and taken them down.

This clearly illustrates how seriously GM is taking the development of the Corvette SS, as well as how utterly embarrased and apologetic EMO TRANS must be for the actions of its employee. It's all fun and games on our side of the fence because we got to see some real, informative shots of this very special Vette, but it reminds us that there's a lot of money on the line. We're sure that GM didn't appreciate pics of this powerplant were available for every other automaker to peruse. Lesson learned, though harder for some than others.

More Info on the KTM Crossbow...

In Detail: KTM X-Bow 2.0T-Powered Super Lightweight Feb 20, 2007 source: KTM Automobiles

» KTM’s first automobile » Racing technology for the road » Light and safe carbon fibre monocoque » Spectacular design » Four-cylinder TFSI from Audi » Puristic, unfiltered driving experience » Supersport performance » Outstanding power-output values » Production of a 100-unit pilot series begins at the end of 2007 » A decision about producing a small series will be made until April 2007 Premiere at the Geneva Motor Show An aggressive design and sporty potential: the X-Bow is not merely a milestone in the KTM brand’s more than 50-year history, it’s also a new citation in the small, but elite segment of radical, lightweight sports cars. This exceptional position is the result of the concept: for their first car, KTM employs the finest materials, high-tech and the know-how of respected development partners such as Audi and Dallara. The result is a street-homologated sports car with racing technology, like an avantgarde, carbon fibre monocoque. Thanks to the basic version’s light weight and the 162 kW (220 hp) Audi TFSI engine, the performance values of the KTM X-Bow outstrip those of super-sport cars with more than twice the power: with a deadweight of approx. 700 kilos, the KTM X-Bow accelerates to 100 kph in just 3.9 seconds. But the X-Bow isn’t just a racing machine, even if it is going to accomplish spectacular performance feats on racing circuits. With its modern technologies and exceptional solutions, it’s much more oriented towards sporty drivers who seek a purist’s driving experience. By foregoing electronic assistants and today’s standard comfort features, the X-Bow offers an unfiltered adventure – aided by its standalone wheels in the style of monoposto racing cars, transparent technology and the car’s reduced concept, i.e. no roof, doors or windscreen. The sports car has only a 70-millimeter, transparent wind deflector. With all these unique features, driving the KTM X-Bow becomes an experience with an immediacy that otherwise can only be felt when riding a motorcycle. The Next Step into the Future For the Upper Austrian motorcycle manufacturer – Europe’s second largest – the decision to expand its line of business into the automobile market was of great strategic significance. It was made possible by the company’s extraordinarily dynamic growth over the past 15 years. Since 1992, KTM vehicle sales have risen an average of 21% each year, while the volume of sales even climbed to 25% each year. Today, KTM is the world’s leading brand in the offroad segment and in recent years has successively expanded its model portfolio into the street sector. “Moving into the automotive sector is the logical continuation of this strategy. With the X-Bow, KTM can now offer the classic KTM driving experience to all those who don’t have a motorcycle licence,” says Stefan Pierer, CEO of the listed KTM Power Sports AG, explaining this investment in the company’s future. Carbon Fibre Monocoque: Racing Know-How from Dallara Carbon fibre monocoques have been the Formula 1’s safety net for years. On the road, this technology was formerly reserved for the elitist, supersports cars in the highest price classes. KTM would now like to be the first to offer this solution in a much more affordable environment. KTM has thereby been able to call upon the expertise of its development partner, Dallara. These specialists from Varano (near Parma) in Northern Italy have long been acclaimed as carbon technology experts, from the conception to the production of components made of this light, yet rigid material. The monocoque developed for the KTM X-Bow is not only extremely robust it is also safe, thanks to an integrated crashbox. And yet it weighs only about 70 kilos and is therefore a crucial factor in the vehicle’s spectacular performance. The Engine: TFSI Technology from Audi KTM was able to gain Audi AG as its partner in developing the drive unit. The four-cylinder TFSI engine represents the X-Bow’s construction principles in an ingenious way: by featuring lightweight, high-performance and intelligent technologies. The engine’s outstanding attribute is its gasoline direct injection technology, FSI. In this case, it’s combined with an exhaust turbocharger plus an intercooler. Thanks to FSI, the engine can utilize fuel better than one with ordinary intake manifold injection and it even gets by on less fuel in the frequently used partial load range. The injection takes place at a pressure level between 30 and 110 bar, valves in the intake system direct the inflowing air into a cylindrical movement. A continuously variable intake camshaft ensures optimal cylinder charging at any speed. Two balancer shafts compensate the second order inertia forces and so guarantee superior, low-vibration operation. The KTM X-Bow’s long-stroking, four-valve engine delivers a powerful performance: 300 newton-metres of torque peaks at a level between 2200 and 4000 rpm. The peak performance of 162 kW (220 hp) is achieved at 5900 rpm. Even more powerful engine variations in the 300-horsepower range are planned at a later date. The drive unit package is complemented by a manual 6-gear transmission, which is also made by VW and can be equipped with a limited-slip differential if so desired. An optional DSG transmission will also be offered. The drive comes from the rear wheels. The Chassis: Direct and Competent The X-Bow’s driving dynamics profit not only from the car’s low centre of gravity but also from its superior chassis, which also draws on racing technology for its basic principles. Suspended on double triangular wishbone axles, the wheels feature suspension and damping elements by WP Suspension, with a pushrod arrangement up front. The Italian brake manufacturer Brembo can also be proud of its reputation for excellence. KTM is also expanding this partnership (which began in the motorcycle sector) into the automobile realm. The X-Bow’s powerful braking system consists of 305 mm discs at the front and 262 mm discs at the rear. The interaction of the vehicle’s light weight, ideal balance, low centre of gravity and a 17-/18-inch tyre mix results in spectacular braking performance: when the brakes are warm, the KTM X-Bow needs only 33.1 metres to decelerate from 100 kph to a standstill. The Aerodynamics: Exceptional Contact Pressure The primary development goal for the KTM X-Bow was not attaining extreme final velocities, but in optimising the driving dynamics. The sports car is thereby aided by an ingenious aerodynamics arrangement, the result of many hours in Dallara’s wind tunnel. The most vital element in this area is the underbody, which is equipped with a prominent diffusor at the rear. To make this diffusor work even more effectively, the linking points for the rear suspension were set as high as possible. This enables the KTM X-Bow to achieve a phenomenal downforce of about 200 kilograms at a speed of 200 km/h – about three times more than most other supersport cars. In combination with the high-performance chassis, this fantastic downforce makes extreme curve speeds possible. The transversal acceleration of 1.23 g that can thus be attained noticeably surpasses the usual values achieved by street homologated sports cars. The aerodynamic concept was a great challenge for the designer as well. It meant that sufficient air had to be channelled into the inlets located in the sides, behind the passengers. The radiator is also located at the rear of the vehicle, to avoid having to install longer, heavier cooling hoses. This mission was accomplished by using special air baffles, which are installed horizontally on the sides of the car so the passengers can also use them as boarding aids. Safety: Racing Technology The crucial component protecting the driver and the passenger is the solid, carbon fibre monocoque – safety technology straight from Formula 1. This structure is supplemented by a crashbox in the nose of the vehicle. The silencer, which is built into the rear of the car, was also designed to act as a crashbox; it absorbs the force of an impact to the rear of the vehicle. The driver and passenger are also protected by four-point safety belts, which were inspired by the racing world. If so desired, this unit can be equipped with a fifth securing point. The two roll bars are clearly visible. They not only appear to be solid, they are skilfully integrated into the monocoque’s structure. Design: Floating Elements Gerald Kiska’s design studio can take credit for the shape of the vehicle. Coming from Salzburg, he has worked closely with KTM for the past 15 years and is entrusted not only with the design of the motorcycles, but also with the appearance of the company itself. For the concept of the KTM brand’s first automobile, Kiska incorporated many characteristics that are more closely associated with motorcycles than cars. Every part fulfils a function, the technology remains transparent, the form is noticeably simple. The few, orange-coloured body panels are “floating elements”, like those of motorcycles, and suggest lightness and simplicity. The deliberate reduction in all things even includes the lights: simple headlamps, embedded indicators flush with the car’s contours and round lights at the rear forego superficial, showy effects. Instead, the carbon structure also takes on design duties, meaning that components which are frequently hidden in cars, such as the silencer, suddenly serve an aesthetic purpose in addition to their usual functions. The Equipment: Puristic and Functional As a result of its clear concept, the KTM X-Bow can do without a lot of elements that ordinarily add complexity and extra weight. So the narrow wind deflector makes an elaborate heating system and windscreen wipers unnecessary; doors are also not included in the design, due to the vehicle’s low profile and the extra-low side profile. You’ll also look for a standard instrument panel in vain. The driver can find all the information needed for driving on the hub of the steering wheel. The seats are further examples of the X-Bow’s intelligent and simple construction: the shells for the driver’s and passenger’s seats are already integrated into the carbon fibre construction of the monocoque. An overlay provides solid comfort. In order to provide the best ergonomics for drivers of various heights, the X-Bow has manually adjustable pedals. The KTM X-Bow doesn’t have a luggage compartment. But it does feature an innovative, mobile storage box for the car documents. The equipment required by law, such as the warning triangle, first aid kit and a tyre-fit system, are kept in storage compartments beside the passenger’s foot well. A cover is stowed in this same location; it protects the interior of the car when it’s parked. Two helmets can be fixed in the passenger’s legroom. Extras: for the Automobile and the Driver Supplementary equipment – like kits to increase the engine’s performance or an aerodynamics package – give the sporty potential of the KTM X-Bow an even greater boost. Another segment of the accessories programme aims in the opposite direction: together with Dainese, the renowned Italian specialist for motorcycle apparel, a new line of clothing and helmets is being developed especially for the KTM X-Bow. These intelligent components are designed to assume functions that are normally performed by the car: weather protection, climate control and – thanks to integrated technology – even infotainment functions such as sound and mobile telephony. The Next Steps: Premiere in Geneva, Building a Pilot Series of 100 Units A prototype of the KTM X-Bow will make its first public appearance at the Geneva Motor Show. This prototype is also the basis for a pilot series of 100 units, which will be produced in Dallara’s factory beginning at the end of 2007. The limited series is a result of the Italian company’s manufacturing capacity: four to five vehicles can be built per week, with a large share of the work being done by hand. Due to the special status of this pilot series, KTM has decided to equip all the vehicles of this initial production with a number of first-rate accoutrements, which will later be offered as extras. Included in the standard equipment for the first series are the limited-slip differential, lightweight metal rims with a central nut mounting, and a Formula One racing steering wheel that can be removed via a quick-release mechanism to simplify getting in and out of the car. The four body panels – lacquered orange on the prototypes – are made of carbon fibre in the pilot series (later they’ll be made of synthetic material), and the chassis’s damping elements are adjustable. And of course other individual equipment requests can also be fulfilled. Because of the greater extent of the equipment range, the projected basic price of 40,000 Euros (incl. VAT) is naturally higher for an exemplar of this pilot series. A definitive price will be announced after the Geneva Motor Show. After the publication of the first drawings, the interest in the pilot series prototypes was overwhelming. Every spot on the list of prospective buyers was already filled in January, while the waiting list has got considerably longer. The KTM X-Bow will be street homologated in accordance with European small series homologation regulations. But since the respective guidelines are defined differently throughout the EU, KTM currently anticipates standardising the X-Bow in the following countries: Germany, Finland, Greece, Great Britain, the Netherlands, Austria, Portugal and Switzerland. The Vision: Producing a Small Series Beginning in 2008 Depending upon the reactions to the vehicle presentation in Geneva, KTM is considering extending the pilot series of the X-Bow into small-series production. This small-series production would take place in Austria beginning in 2008 and entail an annual production of between 500 and 1000 vehicles. Parallel to this small-series production, an efficient distribution structure would also be established. The plan includes a network of around 15 to 20 partners throughout Europe, who not only have experience in motorsports, but also a connection to the Volkswagen enterprise. A decision will be made concerning the small-series production of the KTM X-Bow by the end of April 2007.

Corvette SS Spy Photos

Dude, that takes STONES: Pics of the Corvette SS / Blue Devil / Whatever...

Posted Feb 21st 2007 11:23PM by Dan Roth
Filed under: Spy Photos, Supercars, Chevrolet, GM

HOLY SCHNIKES!

Here are millions of dollars of development and thousands of hours of work laid bare for us to ogle. This Corvette caught by Fast-Autos.net forum member, Chikara83, definitely has some trick bits on it and apparently it's the real deal. There's a liquid/liquid intercooler perched atop the V8, and where the alternator used to be sits a supercharger. We can't tell what type of huffer it is, though -- positive displacement Roots-type or centrifugal.

The hood and front quarters are wearing camouflage to cover changes in those panels. The low-pressure area behind the front wheels makes the perfect location for extractors, which are likely fed by the high pressure area at the base of the windshield. Together they provide a good path through the engine bay for extra cooling air. That's a nice, tidy explanation for why the camo is where it is, too, so we're going with it. There's also a vent in the leading edge of the rear quarter panel, which we presume is for rear brake cooling. The burning question that everyone wants to know has finally been answered: the interior (of the mule, at least) is still kinda cheap. We are gonna be so embarassed if this is Winding Road messing with us again.

Many thanks to tipster Chris.

[Source: Fast-Autos.net]

Gallery: Sneak Pix of Corvette SS/Blue Devil

f the new limited production car that is estimated to have 650hp...

Pics from here:
http://jalopnik.com/photogallery/CorvetteSS/

and you can thank this poor guy getting fired over them:
http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/22/s...rvette-ss-pic/

Attached Images