Some West Michigan scrap yards find Cash for Clunkers program to be a pain in the wrecks

GRAND RAPIDS -- Gas-guzzling rust buckets are nothing new for West Michigan's scrap yards but, in just a week, Cash for Clunkers drove the junk car specialists into situations they never before imagined.

"I never saw anything like this," said Mike Ostrander, an account executive with Louis Padnos Iron & Metal Co., the region's biggest metal recycler. "There are a lot of good, working trucks coming in -- even an older Mercedes."

But they all have one thing in common -- they are gas guzzlers, gulping at least a gallon of petrol for every 18 miles

New car dealers show to start Thursday in downtown Kalamazoo

Eight local car dealers will begin displaying new vehicles in downtown Kalamazoo Thursday morning.

The annual New Car Show, sponsored by the Kalamazoo New Car Dealer Association and the Kalamazoo Gazette, runs Thursday through Saturday at the Arcadia Creek Festival Place.

The event is free and open to the public and will feature more than 100 new cars, trucks, vans and sport utility vehicles, the association said in a press release.

"This year will feature a great selection of current nameplates and some models that are completely new to the market," said Charlie Jeffrey, general manager of Harold Zeigler's Kalamazoo dealership and president of the association. "So whether its fuel economy, family, luxury, SUV, crossover or maybe that sports car you always wanted we will have it for you."

Show hours are 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday and Friday; 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday.

Jaguar XE: Jag's 911 Fighter

Jaguar is working on a new sports car that will be positioned under the XK, and aimed squarely at Porsche's 911. To be called XE, the car will likely make its debut at the 2011 Geneva Show, on the 50th anniversary of the iconic Jaguar E-Type, its spiritual successor

The XE will be based on the Jaguar range's flexible architecture, which accommodates the XK, XF and the all-new XJ which debuts this September at the Frankfurt auto show, and is designed to be a larger, more formal version of the XF, but more lowslung than the current, conservative XJ. Rumors of a smaller, more focused Jaguar sports car have been around for decades. Ford, which never truly understood Jaguar, cancelled work on one called the F-Type about 10 years ago (the illustration pictured is of the stillborn car), deciding to focus the company's resources instead on the development of diesel engines and the X-Type wagon.

But Ratan Tata, whose company now owns Jaguar, is supporting the development of the XE. "I don't believe we can afford to emerge from the recession as we are," he told British magazine Autocar recently. "We need to emerge with something shiny and new, which is why we are re-prioritizing the roadster right now." Tata has a much more personal connection with Jaguar than most of the Ford bosses previously responsible for the company's direction: his father once owned an XK120.

With the '10 XKR stickered at $102,000 including destination, there's room for the XE to tackle the Porsche 911 in the $80k-plus range. That means it'll also be up against the Aston Martin V8 Vantage, a challenge Jaguar might not have been allowed to make before Ford Motor Company sold Aston and then Jaguar/Land Rover. Design chief Ian Callum is emphasizing subtle heritage cues over out-and-out retro styling, so there'll be none of the F-Type concept from the early '00s. Besides being too old, the hoodline of that homage to the E-Type could not meet European pedestrian collision standards.

The new 5.0-liter AJ-V8 Gen III engines -- 385hp in naturally aspirated form, and 510hp with a supercharger -- will give the smaller, lighter XE plenty of punch, with a low 4.0sec 0-60mph time feasible from the XER version. European buyers may also be offered the XE with the punchy 272hp version of the new 3.0-liter V-6 diesel that will soon debut in the XF sedan. With a reported 442lb-ft of torque available (just 19lb-ft less than the supercharged V-8) this engine could still deliver sub-six second 0-60mph performance with 35mpg gas mileage.

Honda Insight Hybrid

Honda has released some information and pictures of the concept car that will become the 2010 Honda Insight hybrid. The Honda Insight hybrid concept car will debut at the 2008 Paris auto show in October. Going on sale next spring in the U.S., the production Insight hybrid will be a 5-door, 5-passenger hatchback whose design will probably not stray much from the images you see here.

Honda says that the new Insight hybrid will be smaller than a Honda Civic, which means that it should be a half-size smaller than the Toyota Prius hybrid as well. Word on the street is putting the 2010 Honda Insight hybrid fuel economy as high as 60 miles per gallon.

GM's Pontiac Solstice, Chevrolet Nomad and Saturn Curve Concepts

GM's new Kappa platform yields rear-drive production and concept cars
By Todd Lassa
Photography by the manufacturer

We've seen the future, and a lot of it is rear-drive. But who would've expected rear drive to find its way back into small cars? That trend is being encouraged by GM's chief product dude Bob Lutz and his desire to get a four-cylinder, classic two-seat sports car into the Pontiac lineup. Enter the Solstice, the 2002 concept that becomes a real 2006 model in autumn 2005. For $20,000, you'll get the base Solstice engine, a 170-horsepower, 170-pound-feet, 2.4-liter Ecotec I-4 (a 2.2-liter turbo or supercharged four will be available later for around $25K). The production Solstice's weight is significant, at "under 2900 pounds." Bob's baby uses Opel Corsa seat frames, Fiat HVAC controls, GMC Envoy backup lamps, and Grand Prix foglamps, but draws considerable inspiration from several Alfa Romeo roadsters of decades gone by. We think it looks terrific.
The Solstice employs GM's new Kappa architecture and innovative manufacturing techniques. The platform has hydroformed full-length frame rails with a boxed center tunnel enclosing the driveshaft. So it's a backbone frame like the Corvette's, which means none of the chassis flex associated with unibodies decapitated to make convertibles. This layout also allows for great design and production flexibility. Demonstrating this notion are two "aspirational" compact concepts, the Chevrolet Nomad and the Saturn Curve.
Leapfrogging the Mini, which has a three-door Clubman wagon on its way, the Nomad was penned at GM's United Kingdom studio. It recalls cues from the 1954 Motorama Nomad show car, including its 1953-1955 Corvette nose, forward-leaning B-pillar, and chrome-ribbed tailgate. The backlight rolls down into the tailgate, which folds flat, with a slide-out load floor and folding rear seatbacks. The nouveau Nomad also speaks to the Kappa's flexibility: Wheelbase is 107 inches versus 95.1 for the Solstice.
As good as the Nomad looks, some consider the Saturn Curve less successful, continuing the marque's tradition of generic styling coupled with the brand's new Seat-style nose. Designed at GM's Swedish studio, the 2+2 concept has a flattop roof over a canopy of glass. Its blown 2.2-liter Ecotec four is rated at 230 horses. GM says it doesn't need to build Kappa variants to make the Solstice economically viable. But why not spread the wealth of this new chassis architecture? As small-car engineering chief Jim Queen puts it, "it's unlikely GM wouldn't make further use" of it in the Vauxhall Lightning (MT, "News," August 2003)--or in something like the Nomad or Curve.
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Most expensive car: 2010 Porsche 911 GT3 435 HP Price

At last there was announced the pricing of 2010 Porsche 911 GT3. The base price is $112,200, excluding taxes and destination charges. Porsche’s latest GT3 435 HP is following suit with the rest of the 997 line by getting a few updates. The most important is an extra 20 hp, care of a displacement bump of 0.2 liters to 3.8 liters and 435 hp total. This allows the GT3 to sprint from 0-60 mph in 4.0 seconds and reach a top speed of 194 mph.

Further enhancing performance is the fact that Porsche’s VarioCam system is now employed on the exhaust camshafts, not just the intake ones. Compared to the current GT3, the new model features an additional 200cc in displacement which helps to create the extra 20 hp. Perhaps it’s a good thing the GT3 continues to offer Porsche’s active suspension system (PASM), allowing the driver to select between a softer mode for casual driving and a stiffer setting for track days.Tags: most expensive car, luxury goods

Most expensive car: Hurry up to buy $2 Million Pagani Zonda Cinque

Don’t know where to spend some “spare” millions? Guys from ES Elite Style GmbH, Germany can help you to solve this problem. I’m talking about the most expensive car - Pagani Zonda Cinque that can be yours for a mere €1.6M ($2 million). Pagani Zonda Cinque basically is a Zonda R, but is road legal. It has a limited edition of only 5 units, so hurry up!

For $2million you’ll receive the most expensive car with 678 horses (499kW) AMG V12 engine with a maximum torque of 575 lb-ft. and 780Nm jammed inside a two-seater super car. Performance: 0 - 100km/h in 3.4 seconds, 0 - 200km/h in 9.6 seconds and the carbon ceramic brakes will stop it on its tracks from 0 - 100km/h in 2.1 seconds. In entity the Zonda F Cinque will run do 0 - 100km/h and hit standstill just as a Lotus Europa S hits 96km/h from standstill.Tags: most expensive car, luxury goods

Infiniti G37 Convertible

Being a convertibles always gives a car a leg a leg-up on sexy. As does horsepower. The 2009 Infiniti G37 Convertible that made its debut at the 2008 L.A. auto show offers both forms of sex appeal, and completes the cycle by looking like lust top up or down. You want more sex? The 2009 Infiniti G37 Convertible is a retractable hardtop convertible -- as safe as a coupe and just as comfy in the dead of winter as it is in the rejoicing of summer. And nothing beats having that 325-horsepower V-6 purring in your ear. The anticipation that started at the L.A. auto show ends this spring at your Infiniti dealer.

Mazdaspeed 3

Few hot hatches are as quick to put smiles on our faces as the Mazdaspeed 3. The current version of the nimble little five-door has been named to our 10Best list twice, won all three comparison tests in which it took part, and inspired the latest in our long line of bad-ass haulers. With the arrival of the second-generation ‘Speed 3, Mazda has made the smile standard equipment, plastering it across the car’s front end. We’ll just have to learn to love it.
Being the most muscular of the Mazda 3 lineup, the Mazdaspeed thankfully gets the butchest styling. A large air intake that feeds the intercooler adorns the hood, managing to take some attention away from the smirky lower grille opening. The grin is also painted gloss black in this application, which we think is a visual improvement over the gray plastic on the standard hatch and sedan. You can’t have a hot hatch without the hatch, and the Mazdaspeed 3 will once again be available only as a five-door. The tail, seen in photos of the Mazda 3 MPS (the name used by the Mazdaspeed 3 outside the U.S.) sports black trim evoking a venturi tunnel and looks significantly more business-like than the standard 3's.
Aside from the happy new styling, Mazda hasn’t made many changes to its fast-five-door formula, and that’s alright by us. The new guy will continue to use the same direct-injected, turbocharged 2.3-liter engine, which in its current state of tune sends 264 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque to the front wheels. (Sorry, all-wheel drive is still not in the cards.)

2010 Lotus Evora

It's a well-known scientific fact that there's two kinds of sexy. The playful, kittenish teasing kind, and the kind that comes up and grabs you from behind, buckles your knees, pins your face to the marble floor, covers you in 30-weight motor oil, and dares you to try and escape. For anyone who can't take that last sentence seriously, there's the 2010 Lotus Evora from the 2008 L.A. auto show. Poised sinfully on the Lotus stand at the L.A. auto show, the silver Lotus Evora exuded an indescribable sexiness that kept interrupting their busy day and forcing them to stop, look, and lust. What could be sexier than this 2,976-lb. body being propelled by a 276-horsepower 3.5-liter V-6? Nothing, not even motor oil.

Exige S260

The Exige S260 adds lightness and power to push the performance envelope even further.

Colin Chapman, the founder of Lotus is attributed as saying “adding power makes you faster on the straights; adding lightness makes you faster everywhere” and this statement is more relevant today than it ever has been. The new 2009 Lotus Exige S260 does both! Through the extensive use of carbon fiber panels to replace the front lower splitter, front access panels at the base of the windshield, roof, rear engine cover, side air intake ducts and rear wing, the Exige S260 crosses the scales approximately 50 pounds lighter than the S 240 yet it also has an additional 17 horsepower on tap to propel it through whatever street scene or track experience you wish to throw at it.

The improved power-to-weight ratio enables the S260 to rocket through 0 – 60 mph in just 4.0 blurred seconds and Lotus’ renowned world-leading chassis dynamics keep the S260 poised through whatever curves you carve it through. The new Lotus Exige S260 is an instrument of pure driving bliss.

Exige S240

With unrivaled handling, the new Exige S 240 sprints to 60 MPH in a blistering 4.1 seconds and sails past 100 MPH in just 10 seconds – while also delivering excellent fuel economy of 26 mpg highway.

The roof integrated air inlet scoop directs more air to the intercooler and enhanced front brakes increase braking performance. Other improvements, including variable traction and launch control, allow the Exige S 240 to cater to the individual driving style of its owner.

The Exige S 240 is an ultimate sports car that fits like a racing glove.

Elise SC

The 2009 Elise SC's pure handling and extraordinary performance is like driving a street-legal race car. This multi-award-winning roadster has been given a serious power boost with a specially designed M45 Eaton rotor pack non-intercooled supercharger. The resulting performance is an astonishing 0-60 in 4.4 seconds and 0-100 in 10.7 seconds.

In keeping with its role as a supremely fast road car - rather than an extreme track machine - the Elise's throttle response is very progressive yet very direct, creating a measured and refined driving experience. And the fuel economy is an impressive 26 MPG highway.

The 2009 Elise SC is engineering proof that progress is unstoppable.

Elise

The 2009 Lotus Elise continues the tradition of refined motoring with a sublime sports car that handles and performs like a race car. The Elise has numerous improvements installed as standard equipment including a new Lotus Tire Pressure Monitoring System that provides instant warning if there is a puncture or if pressures fall below safe levels.

Other upgrades include a stylish new instrument display with a high-definition LCD message panel, clutter-reducing "hidden until lit" warning and shift lights and customizable display options. An alarm/immobilizer system is also incorporated with central locking functions into a new integrated ignition key design.

· Touring Pack - $1,600 USD | $2,000 CDN

Thermal and Sound Insulated Soft Top, Full Leather Seat and Door Trim, Upgraded Stereo System with iPod® Connector, Stowage Net, additional Sound Insulation and Full Carpet Set. Leather colors include Black*, Red, Biscuit and Magnolia.

*Only in Black if Sport Pack is also selected.

· Sport Pack - $2,600 USD | $3,250 CDN

Lightweight Forged Silver Alloy Wheels (6J x 16 front 195/50 R16, 7.5J x 17 rear 225/45 R17) with Yokohama AD07 Advan LTS Tires and Lotus Sport Tuned Suspension. Twin Oil Coolers. Traction Control. ProBax™ Sport seats in cloth (unless combined with Touring Pack). Removes approximately 20 lbs. from curb weight.

· Hardtop - $1,475 USD | $1,184 CDN

Insulated, Removable Hardtop in body color (in addition to Soft Top).

· Limited Slip Differential - $1,790 USD | $2,240 CDN

Torque-Sensing Limited Slip Differential designed to distribute power more evenly between the rear tires to allow more aggressive acceleration out of low speed corners. Requires Lotus Traction Control.

· Lotus Traction Control - $495 USD | $620 CDN

Modulates power through Engine Control Unit to reduce rear wheel spin. Includes a Console-Mounted Switch to disable system. Cuts fuel delivery to individual cylinders when spin is detected.

· Starshield - $995 USD | Not Available in CDN

Clear Protection Film applied to nose of car, rocker panels, exterior mirrors and lower rear panels. Port installed.

· Metallic Paint - $590 USD | $740 CDN

Arctic Silver, Canyon Red, Persian Blue, Liquid Blue, Starlight Black, Solar Yellow and Storm Titanium.

· Lifestyle Paint - $1,200 USD | $1,500 CDN

Aspen White, Chrome Orange, Graphite Gray, Isotope Green, Laser Blue and Phantom Black.

· Limited Paint - $3,300 USD | $4,125 CDN

Candy Red, Ice White and Burnt Orange.

BMW 325i headlight

An ordinary headlight is a sealed beam structure kind, which the reflector, filament and lens are fused together into an airtight unit. This can be easily removed and installed because of prongs that fit within a wiring socket. The most popular kind of headlight that is being used is the halogen kind since it gives off very-well lighting. Both can be switched among two configurations: high beams and low beams. The high beam radiate extra light at a higher position and allowing the driver to have a longer and wider range of visibility, but the disadvantage with this is the potential to blind the approaching drivers.

The BMW 325i headlight is generally recognized as a very fundamental part of your vehicle. This is located at the front of your auto with the purpose of illuminating the way ahead of you. It is commonly used at night but it also aids in harsh weather conditions such as a rainy, snowy, and foggy condition. This has reflectors and special lenses for an excellent illumination. The lenses are high-resistant to heat and from durable resources that are surely tough in any type of weather condition.
Keep your lighting system clean for its effective job. If it fails, check the bulb or the wirings to fix the trouble. However, it is sometimes inevitable that road stones chuck or take off towards the headlight may break it and affect its performance. Whenever you need a replacement BMW 325i headlight that will match your worth BMW vehicle, you can check online auto parts store for more convenience.

Mitsubishi ECLIPS

Athletic Performance
The aggressively sculpted style of the Eclipse Coupe is pedestal worthy. But from the moment you slip behind the wheel, the powerful rush of the engine combined with the ultra-smooth precision handling, leaves no doubt this muscular vehicle is best exercised on pavement.
Indulge Your Inner Adventurer
Whether you hit the highway or cruise the city, the Eclipse delivers the power you crave for your next adventure. Choose between two strong engines: the spirited GS 2.4-litre 4-cylinder engine or the explosive power of the GT’s 3.8-litre V6 engine. Thanks to its rigid frame and low mount multi-link rear suspension, the Eclipse delivers thrilling handling that keeps the rubber on the road.
Get into Gear
Kick it into high gear with a six-speed manual transmission. Switch it up to the ultra-smooth five-speed Sportronic® automatic when you hit your stride. The choice is yours. One thing’s for sure, the high-tech TCL traction control system has got your back. Modulating between the throttle and brakes, the TCL delivers more sure-footed acceleration on the highway, windy mountain roads or unpaved country back roads.

Honda Civic - What the Auto Press Says

The 2009 Honda Civic ranks 2 out of 35 Affordable Small Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 65 published reviews and test drives of the Honda Civic, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The Civic is one of the most reliable, visually appealing and solidly performing vehicles of the affordable small car class.
The small-car symbol for solid performance and outstanding value, the 2009 Honda Civic also wins praise for its outstanding safety features and high-class cabin appointments, plus a sleek body style that belies its entry-level pricing. Although there are several compacts that offer more comfort or more utility, few cars have captured the media attention as the Civic has for all-around excellence. The Civic is also respected among reviewers and drivers for its fuel efficiency. As recent automotive excesses (we're looking at you, Hummer) fade away, the Honda Civic is poised to become the automotive symbol for leaner, more responsible times. In fact, it's one of the top-ten best-selling vehicles of 2008.
If you're a Civic convert, chances are you aren't shopping around. Still, there are some great options in this class. Honda's Fit is more compact but its configurable rear seats afford more cargo options than the Civic's 60/40 split rear seats. The Honda Civic Hybrid is another great choice among small cars. Although it's more expensive than the gas-engine model, reviewers praise the hybrid's value over time. Check out the best Honda deals this month to get into a Honda compact for a great price.
The current generation Civic was named Car of the Year when it debuted in 2006 by Motor Trend and by a jury of automotive journalists at the 2006 North American International Auto Show. It was also a Consumer Reports Top Pick for 2007 (Hyundai Elantra snagged the prize in 2008.), and the 2009 Honda Civic is a Consumer Guide Best Pick. This model year Honda has slightly modified the Civic's front end, and added such standard features as Vehicle Stability Assist or 60/40 split folding rear seats for the EX and EX-L trims. But as Motor Trend says, "The biggest news coming to your local Honda showroom will be in the form of two all-new variants, the DX-VP and LX-S. While neither car includes any dramatic changes from the rest of the lineup, both cars offer a unique combination of standard features designed to give buyers more choice."

The updated 2009 Civic Coupe adds a big dose of attitude.

New In Front, New In Back

A bolder front grille makes a statement with its honeycomb pattern. And check out the restyled front bumper and new clear-lensed turn signals.

How Low Can You Go

The Civic Coupe’s long, low roofline gives it a dramatic, unique look. And it also enhances aerodynamics.

Styled to Move You

The new 16-inch wheels (EX/EX-L) are designed to fill the wheel well with minimal gap for a street-ready stance.

It goes as good as it looks.

Energize Your Drive

Put your foot down and work the responsive 140-hp, 1.8-liter, 16-valve, SOHC i-VTEC® engine. The best part is that all that fun doesn’t come at the expense of great fuel economy.*

Point and Scoot

You get a sporty, road-hugging ride, thanks to the Coupe’s sophisticated suspension. And you can choose between a smooth-shifting 5-speed automatic or 5-speed manual transmission.

Just Stop It

Powerful braking is achieved with front disc and rear drum brakes on DX and LX vehicles, while the EX/EX-L sports discs all around.

* 25 mpg city/36 mpg highway with automatic transmission. Based on 2009 EPA mileage estimates, reflecting new EPA fuel economy methods beginning with 2008 models. Use for comparison purposes only. Do not compare to models before 2008. Your actual mileage will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle.

The 2009 Accord Coupe is a high-performance machine that loves driving every bit as much as you do.

Drive an eye-catching Accord Coupe, and you’ll just have to get used to the extra attention.

Sculpted

With stylish lines and available 18-inch wheels, the Accord Coupe will attract more than a passing glance.

Inspiring

Eagle eyes inspired the shape of the new projector-beam headlights.

Detailed

Brilliantly finished exhaust, chrome door handles (V-6) jewel-like brakelights and an exquisite attention to fit and finish are proof that the Accord has left no stone unturned.

Driving an Accord, you’ll never forget that it’s a high-performance vehicle. But it’s so quick and agile, you might not always remember that it’s cleaner running and fuel-efficient,* too.

Options Abound

Accord Coupe offers three engines: a 2.4-liter i-VTEC® 4-cylinder, putting out 190 hp; and two versions of a 271-hp, 3.5-liter V-6 i-VTEC (automatic models) and the 6-speed manual transmission.

Ingenious

i-VTEC engines, which come standard in all Accord Coupes (except V-6 6MT), add more power and efficiency at all engine speeds. And the V-6 features the latest generation of Honda’s Variable Cylinder Management™ (VCM®) technology, which activates the engine’s cylinders as needed, providing both brisk acceleration and fuel savings.

Agile

Honda power meets razor-sharp handling, thanks to a low center of gravity and a multi-link rear suspension.

Transmissions

In the 4-cylinder models, choose a quick-shifting 5-speed manual transmission or an available 5-speed automatic. In the Accord EX-L V-6 Coupe, go with the standard 5-speed automatic or opt for the close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission.

*Based on 2009 EPA mileage estimates, reflecting new EPA fuel economy methods beginning with 2008 models. Use for comparison purposes only. Do not compare to models before 2008. Your actual mileage will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle.

Accord

The Accord has been styled to attract more than just a passing glance. Its sharp lines and powerful stance excites the senses from any angle.

Artful

Look close. The Accord’s form is a study in modern design. And available 17" wheels will surely impress.

Outside In

Wide-opening doors invite you to step inside. And the one-touch power moonroof couldn't be any easier.

Anything but Ordinary

No stone has been left unturned. That’s because the details make all the difference. Take a look at the Accord’s brilliantly finished exhaust and chrome door handles (V-6). Exquisite attention to fit and finish set the Accord apart from the average sedan.

Powerful, yes, but every bit as environmentally conscious and fuel-efficient. And did we mention fun?

Decisions

The LX 4-door features a 2.4-liter i-VTEC® 4-cylinder with 177 hp. Plus, there’s a 190-hp EX version. And a 271-hp 3.5-liter V-6.

Legendary Performance

Accord models have always roared ahead of the curve. That's because they utilize i-VTEC® for abundant power and efficiency at all engine speeds. The V-6 features the latest generation of Honda's Variable Cylinder Management™ (VCM®) technology, which activates the engine’s cylinders as needed, providing both brisk acceleration and fuel savings.

Transmissions

Choose a quick-shifting 5-speed manual transmission. Or opt for the available 5-speed automatic that features our Grade Logic Control system, which helps put an end to gear-hunting when climbing uphill or driving back down.

Shell and Ferrari

Shell's expertise in fuel and oil development has helped Scuderia Ferrari to 12 FIA Formula One Drivers' titles and 10 Constructors' titles. The developments and learnings are taken directly from the race track and transferred directly to products for every customer's car.

The Ferrari F1 Car Unveiled

The F2008 is the fifty fourth single-seater built by Ferrari specifically to take part in the Formula 1 World Championship.

The design, codenamed internally as the 659, represents the Scuderia's interpretation of the regulations in force in 2008. A major new element of these is the introduction of a new electronic system to be used by all teams, known as SECU (Standard Electronic Control Unit) and produced by MES (McLaren Electronic Systems.) It consists of a single control unit and a software system, the development of which ends as the season begins. Other areas affected by rule changes are: gearbox, which must be used for four consecutive events; safety, with the introduction of higher side protection around the driver's helmet; materials, with a limit to the type of composites that can be used. As a result of these rules, there has been an increase in the weight of the car. All aerodynamic surfaces have been completely revised, however the current version will be replaced by a completely different configuration in time for the first race. In fact, an intensive and all encompassing development program is planned to run throughout the season. The monococque has been further cut away under the driver's legs and the side pods and engine cover are more tapered. The suspension system has been reworked and developed around the new aerodynamics.

The wheelbase and weight distribution have been adapted to meet the challenge of the new regulations and on the basis of lessons learned last year in terms of the performance of the Bridgestone tires. Changes to the technical and sporting regulations in terms of electronics, alongside the introduction of the SECU, have led to the removal of a host of a driver aids, such as traction control and engine breaking and the electronically assosted starting system, and also mean that management of the differential, engine and gearchange are much simpler. The gearbox casing is produced in carbon, while the transmission continues to be mounted longitudinally. For the second consecutive year the gearchange is fitted with a quick shift system, adapted to the SECU software and further speeded up. In dealing with the reliability aspect of the new regulations, Shell has played a key role in defining the lubricants for the gearbox. The braking system has been updated with new calipers and innovative concepts regarding cooling.

The 056 engine is mounted longitudinally and continues as a load bearing element. Its basic structure remains unchanged compared to the unit homologated at the start of last season, while its auxiliary systems, air and fuel intakes have been further developed. The technical regulations also call for the use of fuel corresponding to European Union norms, with a content of components derived from biological sources equal to 5.75%. As usual, during the design and development stages of the entire car, Ferrari's technical partners played an important role. Apart from previously mentioned significant input from Shell, also worthy of note is the contribution of the Fiat Research Centre, especially in providing simulation systems and Brembo for its work in developing the braking system. As is now traditional, a great deal of attention was paid to the performance and optimizing of the materials used at the design stage and through quality control, striving to maximize performance levels while attaining the highest possible safety standards.

Vodafone McLaren Mercedes Launched

Vodafone McLaren Mercedes presented the MP4-23, the team's 2008 Formula 1 car, at the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart.

Dr. Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Daimler Board, and Ron Dennis, Chairman and CEO of the McLaren Group, welcomed all the guests to the official presentation, with Lewis Hamilton, who celebrated his 23rd birthday at the event, and Heikki Kovalainen joined on stage by Pedro de la Rosa and fellow test driver Gary Paffett to unveil the MP4-23. The car was completed just before the event and left the McLaren Technology Centre in the UK at around 18:00 GMT on Sunday and was driven in a Mercedes-Benz Actros to the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart-Untertürkheim, having covered approximately 1000 kms, arriving around 10:00 this morning.

Upon arrival in Stuttgart, the car was transported to the 53,000 sqm Mercedes-Benz Museum, one of the world's largest and most renowned car museums. About 700 Mercedes-Benz employees from the nearby manufacturing plant Stuttgart-Untertürkheim had the opportunity to attend today's event at the end of their early shift alongside the more than 400 media and other guests. The Mercedes-Benz employees had the opportunity to enter a draw of which the lucky winners were able to meet and spend some time with Lewis and Heikki.

Following the event, the car was transported to the Circuito de Jerez in Southern Spain, where Heikki and Pedro started the test program with two MP4-23 chassis at a private test. The team remained at the circuit for five track days, excluding the weekend.

The 2009 Season Preview: Part Three - A Year for Dark Horses?

Toyota believe they are on the brink of achieving a maiden win; Toro Rosso have already done it; Red Bull’s is arguably the most radical car on the grid; Williams’ flywheel KERS could prove a secret weapon; a McLaren partnership should boost Force India; and Brawn GP’s pace has already got the likes of Ferrari worried. The dramatic rule changes for the 2009 season mean midfield teams really could upset the order at the head of the grid. We consider their chances…

Australian Grand Prix preview quotes

After months of preparation and testing, it’s almost time for the 10 teams and 20 drivers that make up the 2009 FIA Formula One World Championship to finally put their cards on the table and show just what they can do. For the teams it will be their first real chance to see if they can really challenge for the title, while for the drivers the joy of racing again will be just as potent. The Formula One fraternity look ahead to this weekend’s season opener in Melbourne…

New BMW Z4 Captures the Art of Driving - Literally

For many the art of driving would normally involve a physics lesson, the reaction times of Michael Schumacher and a lot of practice. For Robin Rhode, the South African urban artist, the art of driving has meant becoming the first person to use a high performance premium sports car as a paintbrush.
For his piece “Expressions of Joy” Rhode used the new BMW Z4 Roadster, the latest sports model to be revealed by the world’s leading premium automotive manufacturer, to paint a massive 100 by 200-foot canvas. To the naked eye the swirls of bold splattered tyre marks look spontaneous, but in reality Rhode and his team painstakingly created the artwork in a Los Angeles studio, where they were joined by director Jake Scott (son of Ridley Scott) to shoot the latest TV ad campaign for the launch of the new Z4 Roadster.
The brief was to present the next generation of the BMW Z4 in a totally unusual location, in a manner that blended innovation and artistic vision. “This work is an expression of painting in action – my hope is to communicate the power and thrill inherent in the creation of art. For me, the use of an unconventional paintbrush like a high performance car is a great way to investigate the relationship between emotion, technology and industrial creativity,” said Rhode.
“Expressions of Joy” also pays homage to another BMW artist. "One source of inspiration was the seminal work of Gerhard Richter´s series of paintings 'Red, Yellow, Blue' made in 1973 for the company headquarters in Munich, Germany," Rhode explained.
The art work is the main theme for the marketing campaign supporting the launch of the new BMW Z4 Roadster, which engages a full range of channels including print and television advertising, guerilla marketing, point of sale packs, window stickers, flags, event invitations and even lifestyle merchandising. The highly unique concept is sure to help the new BMW Z4 to stand out from the crowd.

BMW is of course no stranger to the fine arts scene. For the past 32 years it has commissioned many of the world’s foremost artists to transform its production models to collection pieces for its BMW Art Car Series. But instead of being the canvas, this is the first time a BMW car has become the paintbrush.
James Crichton, Director of Sales and Marketing, BMW Group Middle East said: “This piece of art is a modern interpretation of the sheer driving pleasure that a BMW Z4 delivers. Characteristic design features on this model such as the low-slung front end, long wheelbase and gill intakes, combined with its fantastic performance on the road, means that the Z4 driving experience can be truly compared to an expression of joy. We believe the Z4 will outperform its predecessor model in the Middle East and look forward to its arrival.”
The new BMW Z4 was recently unveiled at the 2009 Detroit Motor Show and will arrive in the Middle East in April 2009. It has met with rave reviews across the globe with many critics hailing it as a work of art as well as a triumph of engineering. Featuring a new 6-cylinder engine, double-clutch gearbox and BMW M suspension with two damper settings, the new Z4 delivers a sportier yet harmoniously tuned driving experience. In fact it was the Roadster’s combination of innovation and elegant design that served as the rationale for Rhode’s masterpiece.

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BMW M6 Convertible

Wheels

Tyre dimensions front	255/40 ZR19
Tyre dimensions rear	285/35 ZR19
Wheel dimensions front	8.5 J x 19 ET 12 light alloy
Wheel dimensions rear	9.5 J x 19 ET 28 light alloy

Engine

Cylinders/valves	10/4
Capacity in ccm	4,999
Stroke/bore in mm	75.2/92.0
Max. output in kW at 1/min	373 (507)/7,750
Max. torque in Nm at 1/min	520/6,100

Weight in kg

Unladen weight EU	2,005
Maximum permissible weight	2,380
Permitted load	450
Permitted axle load front/rear	1,120/1,290

Performance

Drag (cw)	0.34
Top speed (km/h)	250
Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h (in s)	4.8
Acceleration 0 - 1,000 m (in s)	22.9
Acceleration 80 - 120 km/h in 4th/5th gear (in s)	4.7/-

Fuel consumption

Urban (l/100 km)	22.0
Extra-urban (l/100 km)	10.6
Composite (l/100 km)	14.7
CO2 emissions (g/km)	352
Tank capacity in I (approx.)	70

Further information about the official fuel consumption and the official specific CO2 emissions for new passenger automobiles can be obtained from "The Passenger Car (Fuel Consumption and CO2 Emissions Information) Regulations", which are available free of charge at all sales outlets and at DAT Deutsche Automobil Treuhand GmbH, Hellmuth-Hirth-Str. 1, 73760 Ostfildern, Germany.