Monday, November 30, 2009
The CMT-380 Hybrid Concept Comes Complete With Jet Turbine
0 comments Posted by car manual and matic at 9:15 AM
Small companies are developing electric supercars with Ferrari-rivalling performance may possibly seem fairly common these days, and the most recent entrant into this niche market segment--Capstone Turbine--seems determined to follow in the footsteps of other fledgling electric car start-ups.Capstone Turbine is pushing traditional hybrid and electric vehicle barriers with the introduction of the CMT-380, a high-performance, hybrid supercar powered by lithium-polymer batteries and an ultra-low emission, range-extending microturbine engine.
Yes, you read it exactly. The CMT-380 features an ultra-clean as well as quiet jet engine under the hood of the borrowed Factory Five Racing GTM body.
Through this unique powertrain combination on board, the CMT-380 is claimed to be capable of traveling from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.9 seconds, reach a top speed of 150 mph and drive more than 500 miles on a single tank of fuel.
The microturbine engine develops about 40 hp (horsepower) and runs on diesel or biodiesel. The set-up features an electric generator as well as turbine components mounted on a single shaft that are supported by air bearings. So there are no liquids to lubricate or cool the microturbine.
It is so clean that it does not require any exhaust after treatment to meet stringent clean air requirements of the California Air Resources Board or EPA 2010.
While driving, the car can operate on 100% battery power in zero-emissions mode for a range of up to 80 miles. As soon as the batteries reach a pre-determined state of discharge, the microturbine quietly fires up and recharges the batteries on the fly to extend the driving range up to 500 miles similar to the set-up used by the upcoming Chevrolet Volt and most other range-extended plug-in hybrid vehicles.
Electronic Arts Chief Creative Director Richard Hilleman, who is the creator of popular video games, developed the concept for the high-performance hybrid-electric microturbine vehicle with support from Capstone Turbine, who is the world's leading clean technology manufacturer of microturbine energy systems.
The project is still in the concept phase and will be wholly on display at this week’s 2009 Los Angeles Auto Show.
The CMT-380 Hybrid Concept Comes Complete With Jet Turbine
0 comments Posted by car manual and matic at 9:15 AMSmall companies are developing electric supercars with Ferrari-rivalling performance may possibly seem fairly common these days, and the most recent entrant into this niche market segment--Capstone Turbine--seems determined to follow in the footsteps of other fledgling electric car start-ups.Capstone Turbine is pushing traditional hybrid and electric vehicle barriers with the introduction of the CMT-380, a high-performance, hybrid supercar powered by lithium-polymer batteries and an ultra-low emission, range-extending microturbine engine.
Yes, you read it exactly. The CMT-380 features an ultra-clean as well as quiet jet engine under the hood of the borrowed Factory Five Racing GTM body.
Through this unique powertrain combination on board, the CMT-380 is claimed to be capable of traveling from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.9 seconds, reach a top speed of 150 mph and drive more than 500 miles on a single tank of fuel.
The microturbine engine develops about 40 hp (horsepower) and runs on diesel or biodiesel. The set-up features an electric generator as well as turbine components mounted on a single shaft that are supported by air bearings. So there are no liquids to lubricate or cool the microturbine.
It is so clean that it does not require any exhaust after treatment to meet stringent clean air requirements of the California Air Resources Board or EPA 2010.
While driving, the car can operate on 100% battery power in zero-emissions mode for a range of up to 80 miles. As soon as the batteries reach a pre-determined state of discharge, the microturbine quietly fires up and recharges the batteries on the fly to extend the driving range up to 500 miles similar to the set-up used by the upcoming Chevrolet Volt and most other range-extended plug-in hybrid vehicles.
Electronic Arts Chief Creative Director Richard Hilleman, who is the creator of popular video games, developed the concept for the high-performance hybrid-electric microturbine vehicle with support from Capstone Turbine, who is the world's leading clean technology manufacturer of microturbine energy systems.
The project is still in the concept phase and will be wholly on display at this week’s 2009 Los Angeles Auto Show.
Today, fuel economy plays an equally important part. Chevrolet fired an opening salvo by installing a potent yet thrifty V-6 into its 2010 Camaro, but Ford's firing back with its tweaked 2011 Mustang.
Ford's entry-level Mustang no longer makes do with the antiquated 4.0-liter V-6 used since the 2005 model. Instead, it gleans a new variant of Ford's Duratec V-6, which also appears in the likes of the Fusion, Edge, and Taurus. For the Mustang, it's been bored out to displace 3.7 liters, but retains its aluminum construction and twin-independent variable cam timing with the 3.5-liter unit used in the Fusion Sport.
Friday, November 27, 2009
The German tuner XTR Carchip Tuning has unveiled this 2006 Porsche Cayman "987" S with a wide body kit and a couple of engine modifications. The body has a front spoiler with carbon splitter, carbon fibre mirrors, side skirts, rear side panels and detachable GRP fenders. The Pirelli tyres are wrapped around 3-piece 18-inch BBS RS wheels with central locking. The suspension was upgraded and a new Super Sprint "Magnum" exhaust system.The interior features a new carbon fibre dashboard, 6-point seatbelts for the Recaro GT3 seats, a safety roll cage, air conditioning and the original factory audio system.
The Power has been increased from 217kW (295hp) to 228kW (310hp) though some slight engine chip tuning. Though this is quite a modest gain, XTR has given assurances that come spring 2010 a prescription that includes twin turbos will lead to a push of about 625kW (850hp).Regarding the looks, the Cayman is intended for the street with some hobby track racing on the side.
The German tuner XTR Carchip Tuning has unveiled this 2006 Porsche Cayman "987" S with a wide body kit and a couple of engine modifications. The body has a front spoiler with carbon splitter, carbon fibre mirrors, side skirts, rear side panels and detachable GRP fenders. The Pirelli tyres are wrapped around 3-piece 18-inch BBS RS wheels with central locking. The suspension was upgraded and a new Super Sprint "Magnum" exhaust system.The interior features a new carbon fibre dashboard, 6-point seatbelts for the Recaro GT3 seats, a safety roll cage, air conditioning and the original factory audio system.
The Power has been increased from 217kW (295hp) to 228kW (310hp) though some slight engine chip tuning. Though this is quite a modest gain, XTR has given assurances that come spring 2010 a prescription that includes twin turbos will lead to a push of about 625kW (850hp).Regarding the looks, the Cayman is intended for the street with some hobby track racing on the side.
German tuners Kicherer, the second design team to release their plans for a Pan-Am version of the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG. Even though beaten to the punch by Gullwing America, Kicherer have added some touches to stand out.The engineers strived to keep much of the stock AMG's shape, in spite of their attempt to make an "even more sporty version." Seen on the car are a new front lip spoiler, larger front intakes, a roof-mounted air intake, and rear diffuser. Each of the new pieces was made from carbon fiber.
Also included is a stainless steel grille, which may also come in a gold tone. A stainless steel, quad-pipe exhaust was also mounted and the car sits on lightweight, three-part 20-inch wheels. Performance upgrades will also be available for the 6.3-liter V8-engined vehicle, but details were not provided.
German tuners Kicherer, the second design team to release their plans for a Pan-Am version of the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG. Even though beaten to the punch by Gullwing America, Kicherer have added some touches to stand out.The engineers strived to keep much of the stock AMG's shape, in spite of their attempt to make an "even more sporty version." Seen on the car are a new front lip spoiler, larger front intakes, a roof-mounted air intake, and rear diffuser. Each of the new pieces was made from carbon fiber.
Also included is a stainless steel grille, which may also come in a gold tone. A stainless steel, quad-pipe exhaust was also mounted and the car sits on lightweight, three-part 20-inch wheels. Performance upgrades will also be available for the 6.3-liter V8-engined vehicle, but details were not provided.
Thursday, November 26, 2009
The Lamborghini Gallardo LP 560-4 by ENCO Exclusive
0 comments Posted by car manual and matic at 1:13 PM
ENCO Exclusive has unveiled a new styling as well as performance package for the Lamborghini Gallardo LP 560-4.
The German-based tuner offers a range of carbon fiber exterior components such as a front bumper (€2990), a front splitter (€990), a boot cover (€3990), and aggressive side skir
ts (€3990). Other goodies comprise a carbon fiber laminate for the rear diffuser, mirrors and boot lid vents (€4000) as well as a matt black foil wrap (€3000).In the interior, ENCO offers faux carbon fiber trim for the steering wheel, central console, dashboard, handbrake along with a door handles (€5000).
If you find all this a tad vulgar, you may want to check out ENCO's performance package for the 5.2-liter V10. Though details are limited, it enables the engine to produce 620 hp and 575 Nm of torque (instead of 560 hp and 540 of torque).
The Lamborghini Gallardo LP 560-4 by ENCO Exclusive
0 comments Posted by car manual and matic at 1:13 PMENCO Exclusive has unveiled a new styling as well as performance package for the Lamborghini Gallardo LP 560-4.
The German-based tuner offers a range of carbon fiber exterior components such as a front bumper (€2990), a front splitter (€990), a boot cover (€3990), and aggressive side skir
ts (€3990). Other goodies comprise a carbon fiber laminate for the rear diffuser, mirrors and boot lid vents (€4000) as well as a matt black foil wrap (€3000).In the interior, ENCO offers faux carbon fiber trim for the steering wheel, central console, dashboard, handbrake along with a door handles (€5000).
If you find all this a tad vulgar, you may want to check out ENCO's performance package for the 5.2-liter V10. Though details are limited, it enables the engine to produce 620 hp and 575 Nm of torque (instead of 560 hp and 540 of torque).
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Thanksgiving Kitchen Maintenance: Perfect Stuffing Recipe
0 comments Posted by car manual and matic at 3:41 PMby Marjorie Steele, Cars for Keeps Social Media Manager
In lieu of today being Thanksgiving Eve, I thought we'd take a break from car-talk and dispense a little relevant kitchen advice for a change. Cooking and baking are hobbies of mine, and in my spare time I run a foodie/recipe blog over at Caramel Onion (www.caramelonionblog.com). Today I'll give you my traditional Thanksgiving turkey stuffing recipe - for those of you adventurous enough to stuff your own bird. If you don't feel up to stuffing your turkey, or if you are cooking a ham or vegetarian dish in place of fowl, this recipe can easily be cooked in a crock pot as well.
Makes stuffing for 1 20-25lb turkey, or one large crock pot.
Ingredients:
3 medium-sized loaves of bread, cubed and dried
(It's best if you use several different types of bread, preferably artisan. My favorite combination is crusty sour dough, chewy multigrain and honey whole wheat. The bread needs to be completely dry; if you're short on time, place cubed bread in a broad pan and dry in the oven at 150 degrees.)
3 cups chicken (or veggie) broth
1 Tblsp. salt
3 tsp. black pepper
1 head garlic, roasted or diced
1/4 cup sage, finely chopped
1/4 cup rosemary, finely chopped
1/4 cup thyme, finely chopped
2 cups portabello or baby bella mushrooms, fresh and sliced
1 package fresh cranberries (optional)
Giblets, finely chopped (optional)
Warm broth and dissolve black pepper and salt. Meanwhile, mix garlic, herbs, mushrooms, giblets and cranberries together, then toss in with dried bread crumbs in a large bow. Pour broth over all ingredients slowly, until bread is moist but NOT wet. Stuff the mixture into turkey (be careful not to pack too tightly) or place in a small turkey bag and cook in a crock pot on high 4 hours.
Don't forget about our 15% discount for customers who post positive reviews on our Merchant Circle listingor Superpages listing.
Happy Thanksgiving!
The 2010 Dodge Viper SRT10 Debuts Ahead of Los Angeles Show
0 comments Posted by car manual and matic at 10:25 AM
The Dodge Viper has always been a raw sports car with very little frivolities. The 2010 Dodge Viper SRT10 continues that tradition with negligible changes.For 2010, Dodge has made very little changes to its sports car. The same 600-hp, 8.4-liter V-10 engine that debuted in the 2008 model remains unaffected. This means the Viper’s incredible performance statistics continue the same as well; 0 to 60 mph in less than 4 seconds and a quarter mile time in the mid-11-second range. The similar 14-inch Brembo brakes make their way on the 2010 model, allowing the Viper to stop from 60 mph in less than 100 feet.
In fact, the 2009 Viper was so outrageous already; Dodge felt it only needed to improve two things, the interior as well as transmission. A new premium tan Nappa leather interior option has been added for 2010, providing the customer a choice other than a combination of black along with contrasting stitching. The transmission was also upgraded for 2010. By using a ZF Sachs twin-disc clutch moreover Dodge has lowered the clutch’s rotating inertia by 18 %, reduced pedal effort, and improved engagement feel.
In addition the Viper lineup with the introduction of the 2008 model was the Viper ACR, a hardcore track version of the outrageous sports car. Last year, the sports car was able to snag the Corvette ZR1’s Nürburgring record. This time, the Dodge crew took the 2010 Viper ACR back to Laguna Seca Raceway in California to recapture the production car lap record. With a time of 1:33.915, the team drove away with the mission accomplished.
The 2010 model year marks the previous year of production for the Viper in its current form. Dodge estimates production for the 2010 model year will be about 500 units. With Chrysler’s recent bankruptcy and change of ownership and it remains to be seen what will happen with the Viper as the production of the 2010 model ceases.
The 2010 Dodge Viper SRT10 Debuts Ahead of Los Angeles Show
0 comments Posted by car manual and matic at 10:25 AMThe Dodge Viper has always been a raw sports car with very little frivolities. The 2010 Dodge Viper SRT10 continues that tradition with negligible changes.For 2010, Dodge has made very little changes to its sports car. The same 600-hp, 8.4-liter V-10 engine that debuted in the 2008 model remains unaffected. This means the Viper’s incredible performance statistics continue the same as well; 0 to 60 mph in less than 4 seconds and a quarter mile time in the mid-11-second range. The similar 14-inch Brembo brakes make their way on the 2010 model, allowing the Viper to stop from 60 mph in less than 100 feet.
In fact, the 2009 Viper was so outrageous already; Dodge felt it only needed to improve two things, the interior as well as transmission. A new premium tan Nappa leather interior option has been added for 2010, providing the customer a choice other than a combination of black along with contrasting stitching. The transmission was also upgraded for 2010. By using a ZF Sachs twin-disc clutch moreover Dodge has lowered the clutch’s rotating inertia by 18 %, reduced pedal effort, and improved engagement feel.
In addition the Viper lineup with the introduction of the 2008 model was the Viper ACR, a hardcore track version of the outrageous sports car. Last year, the sports car was able to snag the Corvette ZR1’s Nürburgring record. This time, the Dodge crew took the 2010 Viper ACR back to Laguna Seca Raceway in California to recapture the production car lap record. With a time of 1:33.915, the team drove away with the mission accomplished.
The 2010 model year marks the previous year of production for the Viper in its current form. Dodge estimates production for the 2010 model year will be about 500 units. With Chrysler’s recent bankruptcy and change of ownership and it remains to be seen what will happen with the Viper as the production of the 2010 model ceases.
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
by Colette Cooley, Cars For Keeps Office Manager
Thanksgiving is over and most of us are out shopping today. Hello Christmas! We are gearing up to think Silver Bells, Caroling and Presents Under the Tree. And, More Cooking! (Oh, Joy!) Take a deep breath. You actually have some time to pamper yourself a little bit. You deserve it. Get your nails done. Change your hair color. Get a facelift. You should be getting flowers and applause for yesterday’s extravaganza. If that has not happened, at least grab an hour soaking in the tub, surrounded by candles, a little aroma therapy and a strong Martini. AAAHHHHH! Life is good.
Your Christmas gift list is floating through your head and coming together quite nicely. Is everyone accounted for? Hmmmm. What about your car? (I’ll bet you were wondering how I was going to get your car into this blog, didn’t you?) Are you going to be taking another trip for Christmas? It will probably need an oil change and brake inspection before the trip. How about snow tires? Are they good for another winter or do they look “iffy”? Are all the lights working properly? Are there any noises that should be investigated? Are all the windows and doors working properly? Even if you are staying close to home for Christmas, you will be making more than average trips to the Mall and possibly out-of-the-way trips to ‘Marvin’s Machine Mega-Mercantile’ to get that special hinky-dink tool that hubby has been wanting all year, or to ‘Auntie Aroma’s All-Together Apothecary Annex’ for that extremely expensive bottle of perfume for your precious teenager who will “just die” if she doesn’t smell like all the rest of her friends. So. Here is a hint that will make your life just a little less complicated. Call Cars For Keeps now to make that appointment for you and your car’s health and welfare. That way you won’t panic three days before Christmas because you forgot. You deserve peace on earth.
Spyker C8 Aileron a delight for all the senses
0 comments Posted by car manual and matic at 10:40 AM
Though not exactly a speed demon, the forthcoming 2011 Spyker C8 Aileron, is definitely poised to take its place as one of the most beautiful exotic cars ever produced. The company describes its buyers picking the Aileron as an ‘and’ car, rather than an ‘or’ car – meaning that they will have a Ferrari, Bentley, or Lamborghini AND the Aileron. While the others easily surpass the Aileron in performance, the Spyker is tops when it comes to design, beauty, craftsmanship, and exclusivity.
The latest Spyker model continues the airplane design motif, now with a focus on turbine jet engines, rather than the propeller queues on the smaller C8 Spyder and Laviolette coupe. It also continues its absolutely stunning interior, complete with diamond-tufted hides, aviation-style switchgear and exposed stainless steel shift linkage. It has 400 horsepower on tap from an Audi-sourced 4.2-liter V8 that drives the rear wheels through a ZF 6-speed automatic transmission.
I was able to drive a pre-production model thanks to Spyker of Tampa Bay and their Manager, Chris Warren. The ride and handling are definitely in the grand-touring category, which is exactly what Spyker is looking for. While my drive in the million-dollar prototype was only on city streets, the car seemed very responsive and absorbed bumps and pavement undulations with confidence. It’s not quite as responsive as a Ferrari 599 GTB, but more spry through the twisties than the much-heavier Bentley Continental GT.Pricing is likely $225k and up, and annual Aileron production could be in the 100 to 200 range, so the car will always have exclusivity. And the novelty of the stunning design will ensure it is the center of attention in any valet line. First deliveries are targeted for summer 2010, so call us now for help getting to the top of the list. (Photos © Tom LaPointe)
The 2010 Saleen 435S Mustang is another kind of automobile that is out in the market today. At present it is distributed by the company that goes by the name of Saleen Inc. It is based on the existing 2010 Ford Mustang. The 2010 Saleen 435S Mustang is a limited edition two-door coupe, modified car. It has a front engine, a 4600 cc displacement and is charged with 435 horsepower. With a 5-speed manual transmission, the 2010 Saleen 435S Mustang is a one of a kind vehicle. It weighs around 3401 lbs and is approximately 188.1 inches in length. This car is slightly lower than the Mustang GT because of its Saleen Racecraft suspension. The design provides precise handling and better traction.The 2010 Saleen 435S Mustang is designed to give a high-value performance automobile at a reasonable price. This car has a 4.6 liter, 3-valve SOHC V8 engine. The engine produces its horsepower (hp) and the 425 lb-ft torque. If you are a car enthusiast, you will certainly want one of these automobile. Having one of this will give you the pleasure that a race car driver on a real-world road would wish for.
The 2010 Saleen 435S Mustang is another kind of automobile that is out in the market today. At present it is distributed by the company that goes by the name of Saleen Inc. It is based on the existing 2010 Ford Mustang. The 2010 Saleen 435S Mustang is a limited edition two-door coupe, modified car. It has a front engine, a 4600 cc displacement and is charged with 435 horsepower. With a 5-speed manual transmission, the 2010 Saleen 435S Mustang is a one of a kind vehicle. It weighs around 3401 lbs and is approximately 188.1 inches in length. This car is slightly lower than the Mustang GT because of its Saleen Racecraft suspension. The design provides precise handling and better traction.The 2010 Saleen 435S Mustang is designed to give a high-value performance automobile at a reasonable price. This car has a 4.6 liter, 3-valve SOHC V8 engine. The engine produces its horsepower (hp) and the 425 lb-ft torque. If you are a car enthusiast, you will certainly want one of these automobile. Having one of this will give you the pleasure that a race car driver on a real-world road would wish for.
Monday, November 23, 2009
by Robert, Cars for Keeps Mechanic
Want to save some money by getting better gas mileage? Sounds great right? What about being able to do it all for free?
There are many things you can do to increase your fuel economy, with little or not out-of-pocket expense. It's true that tune-ups and routine maintenance are great for your vehicle. They insure that your "machine" is properly oiled and functioning to its originally designed specifications. However, as you know, spark plugs and oil changes are NOT free. So what else can you do?
1. Drive sensibly. Aggressive driving, (speeding, rapid acceleration and braking) wastes gas. It can lower your gas mileage by 33% at highway speeds and by 5% around town. Sensible driving is also safer for you and others, so you may save more than gas money. That means saving up to 13-18 cents per gallon!
2. Observe the posted speed limits. While each vehicle reaches its optimal fuel economy at a different speed (or range of speeds), gas mileage usually decreases rapidly at speeds above 60 mph. You can assume that each 5 mph you drive over 60 mph is like paying an additional $0.24 per gallon for gas. That equals 19-61 cents per gallon, enough to reconsider speeding.
3. Remove excess weight. Avoid keeping unnecessary items in your vehicle, especially heavy ones. An extra 100 pounds in your vehicle could reduce your MPG by up to 2 percent. The reduction is based on the percentage of extra weight relative to the vehicle's weight and affects smaller vehicles more than larger ones. So before leaving the house again, think: do you really need those dusty encyclopedias sitting in the trunk? This could add 3-5 cents per gallon.
4. Avoid excessive idling. Idling gets 0 miles per gallon, period. Cars with larger engines typically waste more gas at idle than cars with smaller engines. Turn the engine off if you will be waiting for more than 60 seconds, whether you're waiting for a friend, at a drive-thru bank or fast food restaurant. Idling your car for an average of 20 minutes per day could equal up to 50 hours of idling each year.
5. Use cruise control. Using cruise control on the highway helps you maintain a constant speed and, in most cases, will save gas.
6. Use overdrive gears. When you use overdrive gearing, your car's engine speed goes down. This saves gas and reduces engine wear.
7. Maintain proper tire pressure by checking them at least once a month. Tires that are low on air create more rolling resistance which in turn decreases fuel economy.
8. Tune-ups, oil changes, fluid flushes. Ok these are not free but you can improve fuel economy 5-30% by having your car properly tuned. Stop by Cars for Keeps and see what it will take to ensure an efficient automobile!
Until next time!
The 2010 PIECHA Mercedes-Benz C-Class Estate comes with a new aerodynamics package that includes a headlight mask set made of PU-RIM and the front spoiler lip which in addition is effortlessly mounted on the AMG styling front spoiler. Custom-fit daytime running light elements which are delivered ready to install and might be very easily exchanged for the original grille together with fog lamps have been integrated into the AMG styling front apron. For each and every 6-cylinder models Piecha also offers the likelihood to make a conversion to the original C63 AMG exhaust system.
To lend the grandiose 4-pipe look the necessary kick, Piecha has now also developed and installed a power converter for the C-Class. Exclusive Piecha dp2 Phantom wheels with a press-fitted stainless steel rim well polished to high gloss turn in the wheel housings and the 2010 Piecha Design Mercedes-Benz C-Class Estate wheel/tyre combination not only gives you a perfect grip conditions, but also an enhanced sporty look in the format 8.5 x 19 ET38 with 225/35 ZR19 in the front also 9.5 x 19 ET45 with 255/30 ZR19 Dunlop Sport Maxx in the back. The lower suspension setting of the chassis is taken over by custom-built sports performance springs which are optionally obtainable with a 20mm or 35mm lower suspension setting.
The 2010 PIECHA Mercedes-Benz C-Class Estate comes with a new aerodynamics package that includes a headlight mask set made of PU-RIM and the front spoiler lip which in addition is effortlessly mounted on the AMG styling front spoiler. Custom-fit daytime running light elements which are delivered ready to install and might be very easily exchanged for the original grille together with fog lamps have been integrated into the AMG styling front apron. For each and every 6-cylinder models Piecha also offers the likelihood to make a conversion to the original C63 AMG exhaust system.
To lend the grandiose 4-pipe look the necessary kick, Piecha has now also developed and installed a power converter for the C-Class. Exclusive Piecha dp2 Phantom wheels with a press-fitted stainless steel rim well polished to high gloss turn in the wheel housings and the 2010 Piecha Design Mercedes-Benz C-Class Estate wheel/tyre combination not only gives you a perfect grip conditions, but also an enhanced sporty look in the format 8.5 x 19 ET38 with 225/35 ZR19 in the front also 9.5 x 19 ET45 with 255/30 ZR19 Dunlop Sport Maxx in the back. The lower suspension setting of the chassis is taken over by custom-built sports performance springs which are optionally obtainable with a 20mm or 35mm lower suspension setting.
Friday, November 20, 2009
by Colette Cooley, Cars For Keeps Office Manager
AAAHH! The Holidays are approaching faster than the speed of light. While half of us are eagerly looking forward to next Wednesday night’s activities of baking pies, peeling 20 pounds of potatoes, and cleaning the house for the 27 people who will be arriving the next day, the other half of us are happily packing our overnight bags to be thrown into the car for that long, relaxing trip to Cousin Clem’s house and all that food.
The Car! OhMyGod! You suddenly remember that you have been postponing that visit to Cars For Keeps to find out what that squeal is about in the back of the car. Your thinking, are the brakes going out? Is the axle about to fall off the car? Is there a rabid raccoon caught in the driveshaft? And now that you are thinking about it, what is that click-click-clicking under the hood? Some squirrel’s nut stash? All the nuts and bolts are loose? Is the engine about to fall off? Suddenly, you are in ‘high anxiety’ mode.
It's O. K. Give Cars For Keeps a quick call to set a last-minute appointment. Have an oil change, an inspection for those pesky noises, a cup of coffee, a few laughs, and a little relaxation while the experts take care of everything for you. There is something empowering in knowing that your car is in good working condition. Just don't forget to fill that gas tank.
Have a joyous and safe Thanksgiving Day.
The Volvo tuner HEICO SPORTIV has unveiled the new tuning program for the latest 2010 Volvo C30 1.6D DRIVe Facelift. The reprogramming of the original engine control unit generates a highest power of 92 kW/125 bhp (for the 80 kW/109 bhp model) and maximum torque of 280 Nm (240 Nm). Thus, the Volvo C30 1.6D DRIVe does 0 to 100 kmph in just 9.2 seconds, thrashing its series-produced counterpart by 2.1 seconds! A maximum speed of 200 kmph is also possible, 10 kmph faster than the series version.
The HEICO SPORTIV Volvo C30 1.6D DRIVe features a remodel design elements at the front and rear. The HEICO SPORTIV front spoiler – which replaces the original lower base section of the bumper – consists of fiber-strengthened polyurethane and is fixed using the existing anchorage points. That similarity applies to the rear valence which mimics the front spoiler’s laterally arranged air vents and it also has a centrally placed diffuser element. The rear valence serves to hold the HEICO SPORTIV four pipe stainless steel exhaust system.
The Volvo C30 1.6D DRIVe is available from HEICO SPORTIV with a starting price tag of ca. EUR 29,900; the parts will naturally also be deliverable individually since spring 2010.The Volvo tuner HEICO SPORTIV has unveiled the new tuning program for the latest 2010 Volvo C30 1.6D DRIVe Facelift. The reprogramming of the original engine control unit generates a highest power of 92 kW/125 bhp (for the 80 kW/109 bhp model) and maximum torque of 280 Nm (240 Nm). Thus, the Volvo C30 1.6D DRIVe does 0 to 100 kmph in just 9.2 seconds, thrashing its series-produced counterpart by 2.1 seconds! A maximum speed of 200 kmph is also possible, 10 kmph faster than the series version.The HEICO SPORTIV Volvo C30 1.6D DRIVe features a remodel design elements at the front and rear. The HEICO SPORTIV front spoiler – which replaces the original lower base section of the bumper – consists of fiber-strengthened polyurethane and is fixed using the existing anchorage points. That similarity applies to the rear valence which mimics the front spoiler’s laterally arranged air vents and it also has a centrally placed diffuser element. The rear valence serves to hold the HEICO SPORTIV four pipe stainless steel exhaust system.The Volvo C30 1.6D DRIVe is available from HEICO SPORTIV with a starting price tag of ca. EUR 29,900; the parts will naturally also be deliverable individually since spring 2010.Thursday, November 19, 2009
The new Ford Fiesta S2000 rally sports car has been unveiled at a launch ceremony at M-Sport’s Cumbrian base in the UK. The latest Ford Fiesta S2000 rally car will be eligible to contend in national rally championships around the world as well as the IRC and S2000 World Cup, is due for homologation in Jan. 2010.
Enduring their close relationship with Ford, the team at M-Sport has worked in tandem with Ford’s Motorsport Technical Manager Mike Norton and the Ford tiny car design team that developed the acclaimed kinetic design of the Ford Fiesta road car, to develop a dynamic as well as aggressive looking rally car. 
The experience gained from developing the record breaking Focus RS WRC has been used by the M-Sport team to develop the Fiesta S2000 rally car though working within the new FIA Sporting Regulations which means that this car may be used by consumers at both national and international level.
The Fiesta S2000 has previously completed nearly 3,000 km of testing both in the UK and Europe and that extensive testing program will go on into the start of the next year in readiness for the car’s competitive debut.
The Fiesta S2000 is the newest in a long line of rally cars produced as a result of the successful partnership among M-Sport and Ford, starting with the Escort Cosworth in the 1990s and moving on to the record breaking Ford Focus RS WRC as well as Ford Fiesta ST.
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