New Porsche 911 turbo raises the bar

• Porsche celebrates 40 years of Turbo with new ‘Type 991’ generation 911 Turbo and Turbo S
• New all-wheel drive chassis with adaptive aerodynamics and active rear axle steering
• Flat-six twin-turbocharged 3.8-litre engine produces up to 560 hp
• On sale September 2013: Turbo priced from £118,349, and Turbo S from £140,852

In the forty years since the first prototype appeared, the place of the Porsche 911 Turbo at the technological summit and peak of dynamic performance has never been in doubt. Now, with the unveiling of the new ‘Type 991’ generation 911 Turbo and Turbo S, the car’s reputation as a technology showcase combining the virtues of a circuit race car with those of an everyday road car reaches new heights.

New all-wheel drive running gear with active rear axle steering, adaptive aerodynamics, full-LED headlights and up to 560 hp from the flat six-cylinder twin-turbocharged engine emphatically underline the character of the 911 Turbo and Turbo S models. Playing an equally crucial role is the entirely new, lightweight design chassis with a 100 mm longer wheelbase riding on larger diameter 20-inch wheels.

The Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC) active anti-roll system, which is offered for the first time on the 911 Turbo models, increases the dynamic performance potential even more. This system is standard equipment on the 911 Turbo S, together with the Sport Chrono Package Plus incorporating dynamic engine mounts, and Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes (PCCB). These are also each available on the 911 Turbo.

As a consequence, the 911 Turbo S shortens the benchmark lap time around the Nürburgring-Nordschleife to well under 7 min 30 sec – naturally on standard production tyres. The standard ‘sound symposer’ intensifies the driving experience further still; transmitting induction sounds of the turbo engine to the passenger compartment via a speaker diaphragm.

More power – and fuel economy improved by 16 per cent

The performance partners in the powertrain are the further advanced engines and the new Porsche Traction Management (PTM) all-wheel drive system. The turbocharged 3.8-litre flat-six engine with direct petrol injection produces 520 hp (383 kW) in the 911 Turbo, and 560 hp (412 kW) in the Turbo S.

Porsche continues to be the only car maker to offer twin turbochargers with variable turbine geometry on a petrol engine.

Power is transferred to the drivetrain via a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (PDK), which enables an auto start/stop function with engine shut-off that now activates earlier (when coasting to a halt) as well as the proven coasting function. Together with a new thermal management system for the turbo engine and the PDK transmission, fuel efficiency technologies have reduced NEDC fuel consumption by up to 16 per cent to 29.1 mpg; these figures apply to both models.

New all-wheel drive with electro-hydraulic control

For an even faster and more precise power distribution to the two axles, Porsche has developed a new all-wheel drive system (PTM) with an electronically controlled and activated multi-plate clutch. The system is equipped with a new water cooling function, so that it can direct even more drive torque to the front wheels if necessary. Simultaneously, the optimised interplay of the engine, transmission and all-wheel drive systems delivers even better sprint capabilities. The 911 Turbo -- with the optional Sport Chrono Package Plus -- accelerates from 0 to 62 mph in 3.2 seconds, which is one-tenth faster than the time of the prior model 911 Turbo S. Meanwhile, the new 911 Turbo S handles the standard sprint to 62 mph in just 3.1 seconds. The car’s top speed is 197 mph.

Rear axle steering sustainably improves handling

The introduction of rear axle steering to all 911 Turbo models improves both track driving and everyday performance of the two new sports cars immensely. Instead of conventional control arms, the system consists of two electro-mechanical actuators on the left and right of the rear axle. The steering angle of the rear wheels can be varied by up to 2.8 degrees, depending on vehicle speed. At speeds up to 31 mph (50 km/h), when the front wheels are turned the system steers the rear wheels in the opposite direction. This actually corresponds to a virtual shortening of the wheelbase by 250 mm, which gives the 911 Turbo unrivalled cornering agility. The system lets the car turn faster into the bend and offers more dynamic steering responses. Furthermore, this noticeably simplifies low speed manoeuvring and parking.

At speeds above 50 mph (80 km/h), the system steers the rear wheels parallel to the turned front wheels. This is equivalent to a virtual lengthening of the wheelbase by a significant 500 mm and gives the sports car tremendous stability, especially at high speeds. At the same time, the steering input by the driver leads to significantly faster build-up of lateral force at the rear axle, which initiates the change in direction more spontaneous and harmoniously.

Active aerodynamics improve efficiency and performance

Porsche has developed an active aerodynamic system on the new 911 Turbo models for the first time.

It consists of a sturdy, retractable three-stage front spoiler -- whose segments can be pneumatically extended -- and a deployable rear wing with three adjustable positions. This makes it possible to tune the aerodynamics of the 911 Turbo to fulfil driver wishes for either optimal efficiency (speed position) or ultimate dynamic performance.

In the performance position, all segments of the front spoiler are fully extended, and they generate considerable downforce on the front axle. Similarly, the rear wing is extended to its maximum height with the greatest angle of attack. This also generates more downforce on the rear axle. The extent to which this system improves dynamic performance is demonstrated by the fact that it can reduce lap times around the Nürburgring-Nordschleife by up to two seconds.

Widest body of all 911 models

As has become the tradition, the performance potential of the new 911 Turbo is plain to see but the new models express it more clearly than ever before. The characteristic, expansively wide rear body panels of the new generation 911 Turbo are 28 mm wider than those of the 911 Carrera 4 models – they feature a nearly level surface, about the width of a hand, between the base of the rear C-pillar and the outer edge of the car body.

Other differentiating characteristics include forged two-tone 20-inch diameter wheels – which on the 911 Turbo S have hub wheel locks. The Turbo S is also making its appearance with new full-LED headlights that feature four-point daytime running lights and dynamic, camera-based main beam control. This can be ordered as an option for the 911 Turbo.

New interior with high-end features

The interior was completely redesigned in both 911 Turbo models, building on the styling themes of the 911 Carrera family. The Turbo S offers an exclusive interior in a Black/Carrera Red colour combination and Sport Seats Plus with 18-way adjustment and position memory. In addition, the seat backrest shells are leather upholstered with double cap seams and various elements in Carbon Look. As with the prior model, a Bose Surround Sound audio system is standard; however, a higher output Burmester upgrade is also available as an option for the first time. A radar-controlled cruise control system, camera-based road sign recognition and speed limit recognition are other new options offered.

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The BMW Concept X4. The next chapter in the Sports Activity Coupe story

Every new BMW X model is a trailblazer. Indeed, the world premiere of the first BMW X model (the BMW X5) in 1999 saw the BMW Group call into be-ing the Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) segment – one in which BMW X models remain the market leaders. The BMW X3 and BMW X1 were likewise the first SAVs in their class and continue to set the pace among their rivals today. This development took on a new dimension in May 2008 with the introduction of the BMW X6 – the first Sports Activity Coupe (SAC). This still unique concept brought together the rugged looks of a BMW X model with the emotional aura and sporting character of a BMW Coupe for the first time. The enduring popularity of BMW’s first SAC is borne out by its consistently high sales figures. The short history of the BMW X range is already a successful one. Since the first BMW X model took to the stage, average sales across the BMW X line-up have progressed on a constant upward curve: one in four new BMW cars is now a BMW X model.

With the BMW Concept X4, the BMW Group offers a preview of the future of the BMW X family. It takes no more than a first glance to see how smoothly the qualities of a BMW X model can blend with the genes of a BMW Coupe. The new Sports Activity Coupe concept from BMW is poised to continue the success story of the BMW X6 in a new vehicle class. Eye-catching proportions, tight con-tours and numerous high-quality details produce an unrivalled product character brimming with emotional appeal, dynamism and the sturdiness you would expect from a BMW X model, while at the same time holding out the promise of out-standing performance and driving dynamics. All of this can be experienced when the BMW X4 production model rolls out of the factory for its market launch, scheduled for as early as 2014. The second Sporty Activity Coupe in the brand´s model range will be built at BMW Plant Spartanburg in the USA, the competence centre for BMW X models which also produces the BMW X5, BMW X6 and BMW X3.

The sporting character of the BMW Concept X4 is articulated by its dynamic line work as well as its proportions. With a body length of 4,648 mm, a width of 1,915 mm and a height of 1,622 mm, its exterior dimensions signal sporting elegance and powerful robustness. In addition t a long bonnet, short overhangs and set back passenger cell, its signature BMW features include a long wheel-base measuring 2,810 mm, while 21 inch light alloy wheels lend an added flourish to the athletic bearing of this Sports Activity Coupe.

A front end with an urban sporting presence.

The front-end styling of the BMW Concept X4 exudes hallmark BMW dynamics and the rugged purpose and presence of a BMW X model in equal measure. Classical BMW features such as the kidney grille and stylized twin circular head-lights give the front end a clear identity and ensure it shines out as a BMW the first time you set eyes on it. The BMW Concept X4 lavishes both these front-end design icons with meticulous detail and three-dimensional depth. The large kidney grille stretches out within a solid-looking surround. The high-gloss frame is open to the sides and at its lower extreme, lending it an almost “floating” appearance in the centre of the front end. The grille features prominently sculptured bars with ultra-stylish detailing. The hollowed out, high-gloss black bars have a milled lower third with a matt finishing, which lends the kidney structure extra visual depth. And the grille also comprises additional air apertures to ensure an increased supply of cooling air to the engine.

The kidney grille is flanked by dynamically contoured full-LED headlights. Inside the light units, a flowing, hexagonal interpretation of the familiar BMW twin circular appearance points to an unwavering focus on the road ahead. The horizontal continuation of the inner light elements creates a visual connection with the grille, accentuating once again the width of the front end.

This dynamic impression extends to the front apron. In keeping with BMW Coupe tradition, the side air intakes are larger than the inner units and make a visual feature of the increased cooling air requirement – while satisfying that need. Together with the car’s wide track and low centre of gravity, the in-takes represent a promise of exceptional performance capability. The side air intakes pick up on a stylistic theme from the kidney grille; their black horizontal bars are, like the grille’s, partly milled out but boast gleaming chrome edges. It all makes for an enticing contrast of materials, a fusion of high-end quality with the characteristic robustness of BMW X vehicles. This design theme concludes in the underride protection element, where three milled out, gleaming chrome elements present a high-quality take on the modern preference for minimalist solidity.

Side view with an extrovert edge.

The qualities of a BMW X model merge with the values of a BMW Coupe in the muscular silhouette of the BMW Concept X4. Its proportions present a persuasive case for the BMW Concept X4 as the most dynamic vehicle in its segment. In hallmark BMW style, a longer wheelbase, relatively long bonnet, short over-hangs and a set-back greenhouse lend the car an undeniable dynamism even when standing still. The striking interplay of surfaces creates a vibrant contrast of light and shadow that exudes a feeling of agility and power. Prominently rising lines mould the flanks into a wedge shape and give the car as a whole a forward-surging momentum.

The coupe-style roofline sweeps elegantly downwards and makes the car ap-pear longer. Below, the windows extend well to the rear, where they are bordered by a dynamic interpretation of BMW’s signature Hofmeister kink. The stretched and shallow band of glass creates a persuasively dynamic link between the greenhouse and vehicle body, the slim glass surface giving the body an impressively powerful appearance. At the same time the visual centre of gravity is lowered, underlining the sporting mission statement summed up by the car’s flanks.

The BMW Concept X4’s contours include a new interpretation of the familiar BMW swage line, a pair of dynamic lines defining the eye-catching impact of the side view. A concave area under each swage line lends the flanks an almost sculptural expression – at once robust and dynamic. The surface volumes and definition of the contours deepen as they extend towards the tail and imbue the rear end with added stature. Here, the powerfully flared wheel arches team up with the concave surface below the rear swage line to visualize the power rip-pling through the rear wheels. The radiant exterior paint shade Long Beach Blue is a perfect match for the elaborately structured volumes and contours, and brings particular depth to the expressive design language.

Fitting the BMW X template, the wheel arches of the BMW Concept X4 are large and almost square in design. This prominent emphasis on the wheels draws further attention to the car’s planted stance and long wheelbase, while at the same time providing a visual showcase for the xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive system. The pared-back, matt black protective cladding provides the final element of bodywork before the BMW Concept X4 meets the road.

Expressive 21-inch bi-colour light-alloy wheels round off the car’s appearance when viewed from the side. Intricate, high-gloss polished spokes provide visual allure, while behind them dark-coloured flame surfaces contribute an impressive feeling of depth.

Cutting-edge presence for the rear.

The rear of the BMW Concept X4 takes the sporting, width-accentuating elements of the front-end design and reproduces them with an emphatically horizontal flavor. The body’s lines and the slim LED tail lights positioned at the outer edges of the rear emphasize the muscular wheel arches and wide track. Be-low, horizontal lines split the rear visually into sections, while light surfaces re-duce the car’s visual height and underline its width.

The shallow rear window gives the vehicle body an even more powerful impression and its broad shoulders a show-stealing presence. Looking further down, the L-shaped rear lights of the BMW Concept X4 underscore its consummate stance on the road. A full-sized inner element in the tail lights, meanwhile, replicates the signature BMW “L” shape in three-dimensional form and with impressive depth.

The most striking element at the back of the car is the rear apron, which pro-vides a wide, full-length interpretation of the front apron’s large outer air intakes. The apron’s cut-out picks up the two exhaust tailpipes in a dynamic sweep be-fore diverting the gaze to the wheels. Body-colour elements reaching well down towards the road surface provide a high-quality border for the rear end and re-emphasize the road-focused proposition of the BMW Concept X4.

The underride protection acts as the body’s lowest edge. Matt black surfaces lower the car’s perceived height and accentuate the robust BMW X character of the rear. As at the front of the car, three milled elements in gleaming chrome add a sophisticated touch to the underride protection.

Source: BMW Press

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THE LAFERRARI UNVEILED AT GENEVA

An iconic name for a car that encompasses the very best of Prancing Horse passion, technology and exclusivity

The wraps are finally off the LaFerrari. The Prancing Horse’s eagerly-anticipated limited-series special, of which just 499 will be built, made its world debut today at the Geneva International Motor Show.

“We chose to call this model LaFerrari,” declared Ferrari’s President, Luca di Montezemolo, “because it is the maximum expression of what defines our company – excellence. Excellence in terms of technological innovation, performance, visionary styling and the sheer thrill of driving. Aimed at our collectors, this is a truly extraordinary car which encompasses advanced solutions that, in the future, will find their way onto the rest of the range, and it represents the benchmark for the entire automotive industry. LaFerrari is the finest expression of our company’s unique, unparalleled engineering and design know-how, including that acquired in Formula 1.

For Ferrari the development of a limited-series special like the LaFerrari represents an opportunity to experiment with all the technological solutions that will later filter down onto the production cars. Of particular significance in this context is the introduction of the hybrid system which, making full use of the Scuderia Ferrari’s F1 KERS know-how, has resulted in a solution that exalts Ferrari’s fundamental values – performance and driving thrills.

The hybrid technology used, known as HY-KERS, represents the perfect combination of maximum performance and lower emissions. LaFerrari in fact emits just 330 g/km of CO₂ but without resorting to electric-only drive which would not fit the mission of this model. The HY-KERS system is, however, designed so that in future applications a car can be driven using exclusively electric power for a few kilometres and, during development testing, a full-electric version of LaFerrari achieved just 220 g/km of CO₂ emissions on the combined cycle.

The LaFerrari is equipped with dynamic controls that are integrated for the first time ever on a Ferrari road car with active aerodynamics and the HY-KERS system. Thanks to Ferrari’s proprietary logic which govern all the systems, the car can achieve absolute levels of performance, aerodynamic efficiency and handling without any form of compromise in any area. A very advanced and uncompromising approach was also taken with the interior design which features an HMI inspired by F1 single-seaters.

Architecture

The LaFerrari’s architecture posed the first challenge for the Prancing Horse team at the planning stage of the design. The aim was to achieve ideal weight distribution (59% at the rear) and a compact wheelbase despite the extra bulk of the hybrid system. The result is that all of the masses are situated between the car’s two axles and as close as possible to thefloor to lower its centre of gravity (by 35 millimetres) and thereby guarantee dynamic handling and compact dimensions.

The layout of the cabin made a significant contribution in this regard. The seat is fixed and tailored to the driver while both the pedal box and steering wheel are adjustable. The driving position is similar to that of a single-seater and was designed after consultation with the Scuderia Ferrari drivers, Fernando Alonso and Felipe Massa, who played an active role throughout the entire development process.

The LaFerrari’s chassis features no less than four different types of carbon-fibre, all hand-laminated and autoclave-cured in the racing department using the same design and production methods as the Formula 1 car. This helped optimise the design: various functions were integrated (e.g. seats and battery compartment) into the chassis to improve torsional rigidity (+27%) and beam stiffness (+22%) whilst cutting weight. 

Powertrain

The LaFerrari is the first car in Ferrari history to be powered by the HY-KERS system. The ICE represents the pinnacle of engine development and research, with a 6262 cc V12 that punches out 800 CV and revs to a maximum of 9,250 rpm, a record for an engine of this displacement. It also features a very high 13.5:1 compression ratio and a high specific output equal to 128 CV per litre. The engine is coupled with a 120 Kw (163 CV) electric motor, giving it a combined power output of 963 CV.  

The high torque levels available at low revs from the electric motor allowed the engineers to optimise the internal combustion engine’s performance at higher revs, thus providing a constant supply of exceptional power throughout the rev range. Total torque generated is in excess of 900 Nm.

The hybrid system is composed of two electric motors developed in collaboration with Magneti Marelli – one powering the driven wheels and the second the ancillaries – and a battery pack attached to the floor of the chassis consisting of cells that are assembled in the Scuderia Ferrari department where the KERS for the F138 is also made. The Scuderia’s expertise allowed considerable savings in weight and size of the individual components and the batteries weigh just 60 kg while providing the highest energy density possible for this kind of application.

The batteries are charged in different ways: under braking (even hard braking with the ABS active) and every time the V12 produces more torque than required, such as in cornering. In the latter instance, rather than the being sent to the wheels, the excess torque is converted to energy and stored in the batteries.

The electric motor is coupled with the F1 dual-clutch gearbox to the benefit of optimal weight distribution, but also to boosting energy efficiency as torque is instantly available to the wheels and, vice versa, from the wheels to the electric motor in recharging.

Aerodynamics

Active aerodynamics play an essential role, as they allow a complete adjustability of the car’s configuration to attain LaFerrari’s exceptional performance.

The engineers’ aim was to deliver the highest degree of aerodynamic efficiency ever achieved with any road car, with a coefficient of nearly 3, thanks to technical solutions honed with CFD analysis and fine-tuned in the F1 Wind Tunnel.

To boost efficiency, the LaFerrari sports active aerodynamic devices front (diffusers and guide vane on the underbody) and rear (diffusers and rear spoiler) which generate downforce when needed without compromising the car’s overall drag coefficient. These devices deploy automatically on the basis of a number of different performance parameters which are monitored in real time by the car’s dynamic vehicle controls, thus guaranteeing the ideal configuration on the basis of the driving conditions.

Control systems

One further innovative aspect of the LaFerrari is the integration of its active aerodynamics and hybrid system with the other dynamic control systems aboard. This means the car responds intelligently to driver inputs, making for a seamless blend of unprecedented performance and unparalleled driving emotions. 

Proprietary Ferrari algorithms deliver optimal integration of the electric motor and V12 for instantaneous response.  In cornering, for instance, the HY-KERS keeps the V12’s revs high to guarantee better acceleration on exit.

The LaFerrari’s Brembo braking system is also integrated with the hybrid system, and incorporates several new features, including new lightweight callipers designed to guarantee correct cooling and carbon-ceramic material (CCM) discs featuring a new composition. 

The car’s extreme performance potential called for a different tyre set-up, with 265/30 R 19 Pirelli P-Zeros on the front and 345/30 R 20s on the rear.

All in all the car guarantees maximum driving thrills in every situation and performance levels are top level: 0-100 km/h in less than 3 seconds and 0-200 km/h in under 7 seconds, a lap time at Fiorano of under 1’20” – 5 seconds faster than the Enzo and over 3 seconds faster than the F12berlinetta. LaFerrari is thus the fastest road car in Maranello’s long history.

Styling

The Ferrari design team led by Flavio Manzoni developed the LaFerrari’s styling working in close synergy with the engineers to emphasise the exacting link between form and function. The result is an extreme, innovative design which retains close links to the marque’s tradition. This is most evident in its side profile: the car has a sharp, downward-sloping nose and a very low bonnet which emphasises its muscular wheelarches, a clear nod to the gloriously exuberant forms of late-1960s Ferrari sports prototypes.

The LaFerrari’s body has been given a sculptural treatment heavily influenced by its clearly F1-inspired aerodynamics and a tail section that exudes uncompromising sportiness.

Inside there’s a newly-designed steering wheel sporting all the major commands, and the gear-shift paddles are now longer and more ergonomic. The signature bridge on which the F1 gearbox functions are clustered has taken on a sleek, suspended wing-like shape.  The whole interior, in fact, has a fiercely track-inspired, pared-back allure.   

The Ferrari range

Aside from the new limited-series special, the Ferrari stand also features the complete range which is the most wide-ranging and critically acclaimed in its entire history.  The five models all share the same Ferrari DNA in terms of performance, driving pleasure and technology, yet each one has its own strongly unique identity, in line with the company’s philosophy of “different Ferraris for different Ferraristi”.  

Ferrari’s 12-cylinder GT sports car prowess is represented at Geneva by the FF, the very first four-seater and four-wheel drive in Prancing Horse history. It will be sporting a Grigio Ingrid livery with an elegant glass roof and Iroko interior. The FF is also now seamlessly integrated with Apple technologies, thanks to direct access to the infotainment system via SIRI voice commands and the adoption of two iPad Minis as the entertainment system of choice for the rear seat passengers.  

Blistering performance and sublime driving pleasure even at low speeds are assured behind the wheel of the multi-award-winning F12berlinetta, which is powered by a mid-front V12.  Unique handling characteristics, extreme aerodynamics and an innovative yet classic design are its signatures. The car on show at Geneva has a Grigio Silverstone livery and a Sella di Cavallo interior.

Moving on to the 8-cylinders, the California 30, in sophisticated Nero Stellato with a Crema interior, is a convertible GT that uncompromisingly marries sportiness and versatility. The California’s already-massive popularity with both press and public alike grew still further after its V8’s output was upped by 30 hp to 490 hp, and 30 kg was slashed off its overall weight.  

The blistering 458 Italia is a sublime, thoroughbred sports car. It and its drop-top sibling, the 458 Spider, are equipped with the same extraordinary mid-rear-mounted V8 engine which was named International Engine of the Year in both 2011 and 2012. These two models continue Ferrari’s glorious tradition with this particular layout. The coupé seen at Geneva sports an aggressive Bianco Avus livery and sleek black interior with carbon-fibre trim, while the Spider, which dominates the Tailor-Made extreme personalisation area, takes its inspiration from the legendary 1957 250 Testa Rossa that sold for a record 16 million dollars at auction at Pebble Beach in 2011. It has the same red and blue livery and a host of competition car details in its cabin, not least of which are suede-upholstered seats and Alutex trim.  

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

HY-KERS system

Total maximum power	963 CV
Total maximum torque	>900 Nm
V12 maximum power*	800 CV @9000 rpm
Maximum revs	9250 rpm
V12 maximum torque	700 Nm @6750 rpm
Electric motor output	120 Kw (163 CV)
CO2 emissions**	330 g/km

Performance

Maximum speed	over 350 km/h
0-100 km/h	<3 sec
0-200 km/h	<7 sec
0-300 km/h	15 sec

ICE

Type	65-deg. V12
Bore and stroke	94 x 752 mm
Total displacement	6262 cc
Compression ratio	13.5:1
Specific power	128 CV/l

Dimensions

Length	4702 mm
Width	1992 mm
Height	1116 mm
Wheelbase	2650 mm
Weight distribution	41% fr, 59% r
Gearbox
7-speed DCT

Suspension

Front	double wishbones
Rear	multi-link
Tyres (Pirelli P-Zero)
Front	265/30 - 19
Rear	345/30 - 20
Carbon ceramic brakes (Brembo)
Front	398 x 223 x 36 mm
Rear	380 x 253 x 34 mm

Electronic controls

ESC	stability control
High perf ABS/EBD	Performance anti blockage system/electronic brake balance
EF1-Trac	F1 electronic traction control integrated with the hybrid system
E-Diff 3	third generation electronic differential
SCM-E Frs	magnetorheological damping with twin solenoids (Al-Ni tube)
Aerodynamics	Active

* with dynamic ram effect
**Undergoing homologation

 Source: Ferrari News

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ROLLS-ROYCE WRAITH: Will be a fastback profile

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars confirms today that the new model Wraith will be with a fastback profile. The Wraith will be launched at the upcoming Geneva Motor show. The final teaser image illustrates the three lines that underscore the car’s striking profile.

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Giles Taylor, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Design Director explains:

“The purposeful fastback profile is Wraith’s defining element.

“Inherent in the graceful line that sweeps from the top of the screen to the very rear edge is the promise of fast, yet effortless touring. Yet, perhaps my favourite aspect is the expressive gesture that comes from the side window graphic, gliding through Wraith’s glamorous coach door.

“It works with a strong sense of linear purpose from the shoulder line, which has the promise of potential like the athlete in the starting blocks. In contrast, the line that cuts through the shoulder line is a little more artful and adds that certain air of effortlessness to Wraith’s dynamic statement.

“In my view the most successful designs always come down to three or four lines.”

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THE MERCEDES-BENZ A 45 AMG

Driving Performance for the new generation

The most powerful series production four-cylinder engine in the world

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NISSAN RESONANCE CONCEPT: EVOLVING THE CROSSOVER

• Signals the future direction of Nissan crossovers with smart, edgy design
• Elevates the crossover experience with engaging aerodynamic exterior
• Features a spacious and sophisticated interior, advanced hybrid powertrain
• Global concept was created by Nissan Design America, San Diego, California

With its boldly futuristic aerodynamic styling and fuel-efficient hybrid-electric powertrain, the Nissan Resonance concept proposes an all-new dynamic and edgy design that once again leads the trend for the crossover category. The global concept makes its world debut today at the 2013 North American International Auto Show.

"When the designers were first working on the Nissan Resonance, they were inspired by scientific advancements in technology and material innovations. They also were inspired by the aspirations of those people who embrace innovation. It was about serving those people a concept vehicle that is forward-looking and fuses style with an athletic ride," said Francois Bancon, Nissan Motor Co. division general manager, Product Strategy and Planning.

Resonance was created by Nissan Design America, San Diego, CA, under the direction of Shiro Nakamura, senior vice president and chief creative officer of Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.

An Energetic, Premium Exterior Design that Resonates

Light on its feet, the exterior design signals that Nissan Resonance is pushing the crossover segment forward.

 Nissan's designers worked to express an aerodynamic feel that was lightweight yet also protective. The front exterior design shows the V-Motion, which starts from the front grille, moves through the bonnet and resonates with the iconic boomerang shaped headlights. The body is strengthened by powerful surfaces and provocative lines and is accented by the flow through the car to the kick-up shape at the rear. These distinct details give the crossover a very advanced yet spacious impression.

The roof's unique "floating" design is created through the use of the thin, steeply raked A-pillars, a large full-length glass panel and flowing D-pillar design. The effect created gives the impression of a flowing structure carried by the large windows and overall spaciousness of the cabin.

The body colour, named Flare Orange, adds even more energy and warmth to the overall exterior design. Other exterior features include a tinted acrylic grille with Satin Chrome accents and 22-inch aluminum-alloy wheels. 

Inside, a Futuristic VIP Lounge

With the interior, the designers imagined what the future of first-class space travel might be: welcoming yet exclusive and high-tech yet premium. The resulting "VIP lounge," with its light, buttery leather and premium-stitched seats, exudes genuine sophistication. 

Thoughtfully considered details, including sequential welcome lighting, add warmth and drama upon entering the vehicle. The dramatic interior illumination highlights the natural wood pattern in the modern cabin.

An advanced instrument panel floats on a generous console, creating a forum where the driver can access all infotainment and communication features. Technology is graphically layered to give a holographic experience and visual depth is used to separate information in order of importance.

The open glass roof gives passengers a unique panoramic view of the world and floating elements like the roof lining add to the sense of space and airy lightness. The spacious interior atmosphere is enhanced by the sculpted door panels and elegant, deep shape of the center console.

"The Resonance interior reflects the enlightened modernity of today's crossover buyer, who values an amazing experience over traditional indulgence,” continued Francois Bancon. “The architecture of the cabin is open and structured. Like the exterior, it redefines and pushes the segment beyond convention."

Sustainably Dynamic Performance

Though Resonance is presented strictly as a design concept, its efficient hybrid electric drivetrain signals the desire by crossover drivers to be respectful of the environment without sacrificing driving pleasure. The all-wheel drive Resonance includes Nissan's proprietary "one-motor, two-clutch" system that combines a smaller displacement internal combustion petrol engine with an electric motor/lithium-ion battery and advanced management system.  Resonance also features Nissan's next-generation Xtronic CVT^® (Continuously Variable Transmission).

An Other-Worldly Concept for Real-World Customers

The bold Resonance follows Nissan's longstanding leadership in crossover design, demonstrated by such cutting-edge vehicles as Murano, Qashqai and Juke, while pushing the boundaries of design into another dimension.

"Resonance is meant to be provocative, energetic and engaging - even polarizing,” said Francois Bancon. “Its edgy yet sophisticated design, combined with an environmentally sensitive powertrain and intelligent utility provides a clear, exciting view into the future of crossover innovation.

"This design is not meant to appeal to traditional two-box SUV shoppers, but rather to those whose fashion and design choices make a statement. For Nissan, this concept makes our statement about the future of this segment."

NISSAN RESONANCE CONCEPT 

KEY DIMENSIONS AND SPECIFICATIONS

  

Concept:	Futuristic five-seater crossover
Drive Configuration:	Four-wheel drive Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV)
Engine/Motor:	2.5-litre DOHC internal combustion petrol engine, high-performance electric motor with advanced control technologies, one-motor/two-clutch hybrid technology
Transmission:	Next-generation Xtronic CVT® (Continuously Variable Transmission)
Battery:	Compact laminated lithium-ion battery, intelligent battery charging control
Wheels/Tyres:	Five-spoke 22-inch aluminum-alloy wheels / 265/40R22 tyres
Suspension:	Lightweight four-wheel independent suspension - independent strut front, multi-link rear
Braking:	Cooperative regenerative brakes
Wheelbase:	113.2 inches
Length:	190.6 inches
Width:	78.7 inches
Height:	68.1 inches
Exterior:	Futuristic crossover design previewing new Nissan crossover design language; V-Motion theme front design; boomerang-shaped headlights and taillights; sequential exterior lighting expressing PURE DRIVE experience; full dynamic flow airflow management for enhanced aerodynamics; spatial architecture with "floating" constructions for an open and protective feel; unique "floating roof" with large glass roof panel, unique D-pillar design; tinted acrylic grille with Satin Chrome accents; Flare Orange exterior colour
Interior Features:	Spacious "VIP Lounge" interior design; light, buttery leather seats; sequential welcome lighting; "floating" instrument panel design; graphically layered instrument panel screen designed to provide a holographic experience; Cloud-based telematics; sculpted door panels and centre console

Source: News Press

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