MCLAREN GENEVA-BOUND P1

McLaren has fully unveiled the production-spec P1 supercar ahead of its world debut at next month's Geneva Motor Show.

Outside, the P1's overall shape is reminiscent of the company's MP4-12C but its details are far more exotic. The P1 features a truncated front end with a highly-stylized front fascia melding into an aggressive front splitter.  Uniquely, the headlamps mimic McLaren's boomerang-shaped logo. In profile the P1 reminds us of the Pagani Zonda, with flowing character lines giving the car a look of motion even when it is standing still.  The back of the P1 looks race-ready with a high-mounted center exhaust and large diffuser.

Inside, the P1 features a glass roof and a windshield that is taller than it is wide, giving the car the feel of a fighter jet cockpit.  The P1's interior is also extremely driver focused, with all switchgear kept to a minimum.  However, despite that minimalist approach, the P1 still comes equipped with climate control, satellite navigation and a bespoke sound system.

Featherlight

In order to keep weight down, nearly every piece in the P1's interior is made from carbon fiber, including seat shells, door cards, headliner and center console.  McLaren was so obsessed with weight-savings that it removed the top layer of resin from the P1's interior carbon fiber, saving an additional 3.3 pounds.

To further shed weight, the P1 will come from the factory sans carpeting.  Carpet will be offered as an option, but even that will come with a special lightweight backing.

Each P1 will be custom fitted for both the driver and passenger, but owners will be able to make a few adjustments on their own.  The driver's seat of the P1 is typically fixed at 28 degrees from vertical, but can be moved to 32 degrees for track days when extra headroom is needed to accommodate a racing helmet.

As with the car's interior, the so-called mega-Mac will lean heavily on carbon fiber for most its body construction and will utilize a pushrod suspension like the system first seen on the Lamborghini Aventador. Hydraulic anti-roll control, adaptive dampers and an advanced traction control system will also be part of the car's handling package.

Under the hood

As previously reported, McLaren has scrapped plans for a new 5.0-liter V8 as the P12 is powered by the same twin-turbocharged 3.8-liter V8 used in the smaller MP4-12C. However, McLaren has pair that powerplant with a KERS energy storage system that will boost power to 903 horsepower and 660 lb-ft. of torque.

That kind of power means the reborn F1 will be able to accelerate from 0-60 mph in 2.8 seconds and from 0-100 mph in just 5.5 seconds. Amazingly, the car will be able to go from a standstill to 200 mph in 20 seconds.  McLaren says all-out speed wasn't a top priority for the P1, but we expect the car to arrive with an eye-popping top end.

"Our aim is not necessarily to be the fastest in absolute top speed but to be the quickest and most rewarding series production road car on a circuit," said McLaren Automotive Managing Director Antony Sheriff. "It is the true test of a supercar’s all round ability and a much more important technical statement. Our goal is to make the McLaren P1 the most exciting, most capable, most technologically advanced and most dynamically accomplished supercar ever made."

McLaren will cap production at 375 units, with prices reflecting that exclusivity.  In the United Kingdom, the P1 will start at £866,000, a figure which converts to roughly $1.3 million.

FACEBOOK

Fisker Karma

Vaporware no more! The Fisker Karma is finally, truly on-sale. The Karma is the first vehicle from the Fisker brand, arriving as a coupe-like four-door sedan boasting a range-extending gas engine and an electric motor in a configuration not unlike that found in the Chevrolet Volt.

Karma was officially awarded a 52 MPGe rating from the EPA, falling short of projections. When driving the vehicle beyond stored electricity levels, the Karma's 2.0-liter General Motors-sourced Ecotec engine (acting as a generator) returns just 20 miles per gallon. Should the Karma come with a full charge, however, expect to travel 32 miles without using a single drop of gas, according to the EPA.
Q-Drive is the heart of the Karma, a plug-in hybrid powertrain that uses a 20 kW/h lithium ion battery with Nanophosphate technology paired with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with direct injection and turbocharging, which powers a 175kW generator.

The net result is a very respectable 403 horsepower coupled with a jaw dropping 951 lb-ft of torque - available at zero rpms! This translates to a zero-to-60 time of 7.9 seconds and a 95 mile per hour top speed - in electric-only "Stealth Mode."

Not impressed? Don't worry, Sport Mode can be activated and the Ecotec kicks in to boost performance, recording a zero-to-60 sprint in 5.9 seconds and bumping the top speed to 125 mph. This unprecedented level of driver control enables conversation of either electricity or gasoline, depending on driver needs and preferences.

Recharging the battery can be done with either 110-, 220- or 240-volt plugs, taking as little as six hours to provide 32 miles of pure-electric range.

Other advanced technology employed by the Karma includes the world's largest spherically curved, monolithic solar panel integrated into its roof - an industry first and a standard feature on all Karma sedans. Fisker says the panel will allow for up to five additional electric-only miles of driving per week.

Inside, the Karma is filled with natural and recyclable materials that continue the thorough "eco" approach to the car's design. There are multiple trim levels that will determine the types of materials used, including the EcoChic trim level which uses an advanced sustainable animal-free approach that replaces leather with a high-grade textile and EcoPremium Suede trim. Certified Rescued Wood trim is sourced from Walnut Burl and Red Elm trees reclaimed from forest fires in the hills of southern California - providing both beauty and form in an environmentally conscious manner.

Information is displayed on one of several LCD screens, used both to replace traditional gauges and with a 10.2-inch Fisker Command Center, located in the center console. This command center controls climate, audio, navigation, telephone, as well as other various vehicle systems. Inputs into the center are met with instantaneous tactile feedback that enables drivers to confirm their commands without looking away from the road.

The Karma's styling is modestly tweaked from the concept car the automaker first showed the world, and the interior is considerably better finished. Every surface is covered in hides with a rubbery finish - good for cornering, bad for entry/exit. Fisker showed the Karma with two sets of golf clubs in the trunk, further illustrating its no-compromise intent.

The Karma features speakers — both inside and out — that simulate a sound "like something between a Formula One car and a jet plane." The feature is being implemented for pedestrian safety and added novelty.

Key Competitors
As the Karma is currently the only full-size plug-in luxury sedan on the market, it doesn't have any true rivals. However, environmentally-conscious buyers in search of a large premium sedan can also consider the BMW ActiveHybrid 7, Lexus LS 600h L and the Mercedes-Benz S400 Hybrid, though none are as green as the Karma

ALFA ROMEO GLORIA CONCEPT LEAKED

A batch of leaked low-resolution images has prematurely revealed the Alfa Romeo Gloria concept ahead of its scheduled debut at the 83rd annual Geneva Motor Show.  Finished in an eye-catching shade of dark red, the sedan is the work of 20 students from the European Design Institute (IED) of Turin.

When the project began, Alfa asked the students to design a four-door sedan that could be sold in North America and in Asia as well as in Europe.  The Gloria stretches 185 inches long, 75 inches wide and 51 inches high, dimensions that are roughly on par with those of the 166, Alfa's range-topping sedan from 1998 to 2007.

The leaked pictures reveal that the concept reveals that it borrows styling cues such as its rounded fenders and its triangular grille from current members of the Alfa lineup.  It is equipped with suicide rear doors and it sits on 20-inch alloy wheels that were designed by the students and built by OZ Racing.

The Gloria is not functional but Alfa says that either a V6 or a V8 engine can be mounted under its long hood.

Like most other student-designed show cars, the Gloria will likely remain at the concept stage.

2014 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Black Series

The German giant in auto industry Mercedes-Benz has revealed the 2014SLS AMG Black Series. The vehicle`s hallmarks are an improved performance and reduced weight.

The new member in the SLS AMG lineup boasts an extra 39 horsepower compared to the previous model. The power comes from a 6.2-liter V8 engine with 622 hp. The acceleration from O to 60 miles per hour is 3.5 seconds. The Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Black Series has a maximum speed is 196 mph. 

The car features an improved handling due to redesigned ceramic brakes with two-piece rotors, new adjustable coil over suspension, electronically controlled rear differential and a a wider track.

The aluminum elements have been replaced with carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP). Thanks to this change, the SLS AMG Black Series is 154 pounds lighter compared to the SLS AMG GT. 

The design of the Mercedes-Benz Gullwing Black Series has been inspired by The GT3 racecar. The new model has the same front chin spoiler, forged alloy wheels, rear diffuser, vented side skirts and rear fascia as the racer. 

The high-end styling is also applied to the interior of the Black Series. The cabin features a sport steering wheel with red 12 o'clock marking and exposed carbon fiber elements. 


Official information
The new 2014MY Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Black Series
Extreme performance for the road

MONTVALE, NJ – Mercedes-AMG presents the most extreme version of the celebrated SLS, the 2014MY SLS AMG Black Series. Inspired by the SLS AMG GT3 race car, the fifth Black Series model from Mercedes-AMG boasts a fascinating mix of breathtaking design, outstanding driving dynamics and uncompromising lightweight construction in line with the "AMG Lightweight Performance" strategy. With a curb weight of 3,417 pounds, the 2014MY SLS AMG Black Series achieves a power/weight ratio of 5.49 lb/hp. The AMG 6.3-liter V8 engine generates a power output of 622 hp at 7,400 rpm and accelerates the most dynamic SLS of all time to 60 mph in 3.5 seconds. The SLS AMG Black Series achieves a whole new level ofperformance with the coil-over AMG Adaptive Performance Suspension, AMG high-performance ceramic two-piece brake system and weight-optimized, forged AMG light-alloy wheels with new sport tires. Additional highlights include electronically-controlled AMG rear-axle differential lockand the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission featuring spectacular shift and response times. The available AMG Aerodynamics package delivers a further boost to the vehicle's handling and dynamics. The 2014MY SLS AMG Black Series goes on-sale in the U.S. in summer 2013.

Black Series is a name that resonates with automobile experts and enthusiasts worldwide. Following the SLK55 AMG Black Series from 2006 (European model), the 2008 CLK63 AMG Black Series, the 2009 SL65 AMG Black Series and the 2013 C63 AMG Black Series, the fifth in the lineup sees the Black Series enter a whole new dimension with the iconic SLS AMG.

"The new SLS AMG Black Series is a perfect study in the one hundred percent transfer of technology and engineering from motorsport to road. We have drawn inspiration from the worldwide success of the SLS AMG GT3 customersport racing car on both a conceptual and a technological level. Boasting numerous lightweight components and fascinating dynamics, our fifth Black Series model guarantees pure, unadulterated 'Driving Performance.' The SLS AMG Black Series is the ultimate choice for fast laps and a highly emotional driving experience," says Ola Källenius, Chairman of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.

"Fans of high-performance super sports cars will be fascinated by its high-tech package. The basis for passionate performance and supreme driving dynamics is provided by numerous new developments in the engine, transmission, suspension and aerodynamics – also giving top priority to our "AMG Lightweight Performance"strategy. Outstanding efforts in the field of lightweight design have resulted in a curb weight of 3,417 pounds," notes Tobias Moers, Head of Total Vehicle Development and Member of the Board of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.


AMG 6.3-liter V8 engine – synonymous with thrilling driving dynamics

The uprated AMG 6.3-liter V8 engine generating a power output of 622 hp and 468 lb-ft of torque is a synonym for thrilling driving dynamics, making the 2014MY SLS AMG Black Series the most powerful AMG high-performance automobile with a combustion engine. Only the SLS AMG Electric Drive with a maximum output of 740 hp has more power.

The 2014MY SLS AMG Black Series accelerates to 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds, and onward to a top speed of 196 mph. The additional 39 hp of power compared to the 583 hp delivered by the

SLS AMG GT is courtesy of the following enhancements:
-Increase in maximum engine speed from 7,200 to 8,000 rpm
-Fully revised high-speed valve train with modified camshafts, adapted cam geometry and optimized bucket tappets featuring a special coating that is typically used on race vehicles -Modification of the intake air ducting: de-throttling and adaptation tomatch the new maximum engine speed
-Adaptation of the engine mapping and increase in peak pressure

The engineers at Mercedes-AMG have further optimized the crank assembly in the interests of optimum stability under tough race track conditions. The measures include modified oil bores in the crankshaft, new crankshaft bearings, a new oil pump and high-strength screw fasteners for the connecting rods. The entire water and oil cooling system for the engine and transmission has been optimized further. The AMG V8 engine in the SLS AMG Black Series also has an additional specialized mounting system. A gas-filled strut braces the eight-cylinder engine against the body, effectively eliminating undesired load shifts during highly-dynamic race-track driving. The AMG 6.3-liter V8 engine is hand-built in the AMG factory in Affalterbach, in line with the philosophy "one man, one engine." This hand-made quality is confirmed by the black AMG engine badge bearing the signature of the engine builder, which is a hallmark of the Black Series models.


The key data at a glance:
SLS AMG Black Series
-Displacement: 6,208 cc
-Bore x stroke: 4.02 x 3.72 inches
-Compression ratio: 11.3 : 1
-Output: 622 hp at 7,400 rpm
-Max. torque: 468 lb-ft at 5,500 rpm
-Maximum engine speed: 8,000 rpm
-Engine weight (dry): 452 lbs
-Acceleration 0-60 mph: 3.5 s
-Top speed: 196 mph

The eight-cylinder naturally aspirated engine installed with a front mid-engine layout behind the front axle, and boasts racing car responses and an exceptional level of high-revving performance. The racetrack credentials of thepowerful AMG V8 engine are also apparent from its sound: the newly designed AMG sport exhaust system, produced for the first time in titanium, features distinctive center and rear mufflers, delivering a more powerful and even more striking engine sound. The switch from steel to titanium has spawned substantial weight savings: at just under 37.5 pounds, the new AMG sports exhaust system is around 28.7 pounds lighter than its predecessor. The new system features performance-enhancing, fan-type exhaust manifolds.


Systematic application of the AMG Lightweight Performance strategy

With a curb weight of 3,417 pounds, the 2014MY SLS AMG Black Series is not only 154 pounds lighter than the SLS AMG, but also attains the best power/weight ratio by far of all AMG Black Series vehicles to date. Even among super sports cars, the figure of 5.49 lb/hp is extremely competitive and made possible by consistent application of the "AMG Lightweight Performance" strategy. Numerous body elements, such as the hood, the rear panel behind the AMG sports bucket seats, the diagonal braces on the underbody and the torque tube between engine and transmission are made entirely from CFRP (carbon-fiber reinforced plastic). In contrast to its 58.6-pound counterpart with a sand-cast aluminum housing, the carbon-fiber torque tube weighs just 29.3 pounds. As before, a CFRP drive shaft weighing just 10.4 pounds handles power transmission between the engine and dual-clutch transmission (transaxle principle), which is flange-mounted on the rear axle. CFRP components also replace a number of parts of the aluminum spaceframe, while a lithium-ion battery takes on the role of the conventional starter battery, saving a further 17.6 pounds.


Dual-clutch transmission for even smoother performance

The AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission is installed 0.4 inches lower in order to give the vehicle a lower center of gravity and is braced against the body by gas-filled struts to avoid stress cycling. The dual-clutch transmission features four drive modes (C, S, S+ and M). "Sport plus" and "Manual" deliver even more aggressive performance than in the SLS AMG and SLS AMG GT models. In addition to an increase in shift speed, the transmission also has reduced response time to shift commands from the driver.

An even more thrilling feature is the automatic rev-matching function during downshifting: the throttle blips when shifting gears are more pronounced and more striking than ever due to the AMG titanium sports exhaust system. There is also a new temporary M mode. In C, S or S+ mode, this enables the driver to activate manual mode without taking a hand from the steering wheel, bypressing the "up" or "down" shift paddle once. In temporary M mode the driver experiences the dynamism and performance of gear-shifting in manual mode in all of the automatic driving programs, with automatic up and down-shifting as well. This allows the driver to devote his full attention to the vehicle's impressive performance.


New electronic AMG rear-axle differential lock

A new electronically controlled AMG rear-axle differential lock with a shorter rear axle ratio replaces the mechanical variant. Integrated into the compact transmission housing, this system operates with a variable locking effect under acceleration and deceleration. In addition, the electronics are now more responsive, enabling excellent traction for the rear wheels under all roadconditions. The electronic AMG rear-axle differential lock also benefits safety. By reducing the vehicle's yaw around its vertical axis, the system provides a stabilizing effect in slaloms or when changing lane at high speeds. The standard 3-stage ESP®system featuring the functions "ESP ON", "ESP SPORT Handling Mode" and "ESP OFF" is precision-tuned to the electronic AMG rear-axle differential lock. The same applies to the RACE START function, which works with the electronic differential lock to provide perfect traction when accelerating from a standing start.


AMG Adaptive Performance Suspension and sports tires

The chassis and suspension of the 2014 SLS AMG Black Series are also new. The basic layout with aluminum double wishbones at all four corners remains unchanged, but virtually every single component has been refined for significantly enhanced track performance.


The new developments in detail:

-AMG Adaptive Performance Suspension with tauter base setup and electronically controlled two-stage damping (Sport, Sport +) for individual adjustment to suit personal driving style
-Coil-over spring suspension allows for adjusting wheel loads to individual race track setups
-Elastokinematics 50 / 42% more rigid (front/rear axle) for greater stability in turns
-Track width increased by 0.8 / 0.9 inches (front/rear axle) for added grip
-New wheel mounts on front axle and new front stabilizer tuning for addedgrip, reduced body roll in fast cornering
-AMG 10-spoke forged alloy wheels, in very lightweight forged design for optimum strength, painted matte black with high-gloss finish, dimensions: 10x19 front; 12x20 rear. Weight saving: 8.8 pounds
-Newly developed Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 sports tires. Dimensions 275/35 R 19 front and 325/30 R 20 rear, for added grip and cornering at the limit
-AMG speed-sensitive steering with revised power steering characteristics for optimum steering precision and outstanding control


Standard AMG high-performance ceramic two-piece brake system

The brake system on the SLS AMG Black Series boasts excellent deceleration performance and outstanding stability. The standard AMG high-performance ceramic two-piece brake system measures 15.8 x 1.5 inches at the front and 14.2 x 1.3 inches at the rear, and feature increased hardness for enhanced thermal stability, combined with a weight reduction of around 40 percent over their steel/aluminum counterparts. As a result of the reduced unsprung weight, they optimize both comfort and grip, while the reduced rotating masseson the front axle deliver a more direct steering response. The weight savings is approximately 35.3 pounds compared to a conventional steel/aluminum brake system.


Design inspired by the SLS AMG GT3 race car

The design of the SLS AMG Black Series takes its cues from the SLS AMG GT3 race car. The SLS race car developed in accordance with FIA GT3 rules has quickly become established as a serious contender among the super sports car elite.

In the 2012 motorsport season the SLS AMG GT3 is competing in more than 15 series on four continents. The triple victory in the 24-hour Dubai race in January 2012, three driver and team titles in the FIA GT3 European Championship, the ADAC GT Masters and the FIA GT3 World Championship, along with numerous podium places at various short-distance, 4 and 6-hour races provide impressive documentation of the SLS AMG GT3's sporty performance. To date, the car has notched up 37 victories in the 2012 season (as of October 28, 2012).

Flared fenders with an added width of 0.5 inches (front) and 1.0 inch (rear) on each side create the necessary space for the 10.8-inch and 12.8-inch sports tires. Tinted headlamps and black surrounds for the rear lights give the SLS AMG Black Series a muscular and aggressive look. The vehicle's aerodynamic balance is optimized by front, rear and side skirts and a rear diffuser, all in a signature Black Series design. The package features extensive use of CFRP on the front splitter, side sills and rear skirt. The enlarged air intakes with carbon-fiber flics also ensure optimum airflow into the cooling modules at the front.

As on the SLS AMG GT3, the carbon-fiber hood features a central air outlet. Aside from effectively dissipating engine heat, this outlet also increases downforce at the front axle and improves the cd value. The wing-like cross-fin and the star recessed into the radiator grille are finished in high-gloss black to match the exterior mirrors and the fins on the hood. The carbon-fiber insert on the sides with air outlet and a black fin is also reminiscent of the GT3; this feature helps reduce the temperature in the engine compartment. The result is maximum stability, even in tough race track use.


Matte black AMG forged wheels in signature Black Series design

A striking feature along the sides is the attractive integration of the side skirts, which combine with the character line for a striking look. The carbon elements fitted along the bottom edges carry the line of the carbon-fiber front splitter through to the rear of the vehicle. AMG forged wheels in a signature Black Series 10-spoke design, painted in matte black with a high-gloss finish provideglimpses of the AMG ceramic high-performance two-piece brake system. Also available are AMG forged wheels in matte black with a polished flange.

The muscular look of the SLS AMG Black Series carries through to the rear. The wide fenders and the striking rear diffuser are the dominant features here. The diffuser extends beyond the profile of the rear skirt to produce additional downforce at the rear axle. This results in greater driving stability at high speeds. Visible air openings behind black grilles control the discharge of hot air around the AMG titanium sports exhaust system. The two sets of twin chrome tailpipes with a square cross-section are a visual indication of the super sports car's power – an impression reinforced by the exhaust note. The exclusive AMG logo with contrasting Black Series lettering in black adds a discreet yet striking touch at the top right of the trunk lid.


AMG Aerodynamics package with carbon-fiber components

The SLS AMG Black Series can be upgraded with the optional AMG Aerodynamics package. This package features an adjustable carbon-fiber rear wing in place of the standard wind deflector. The rear wing is braced by aluminum elements on a special insert on the trunk lid that provide even greater downforce on the rear axle – especially with the Gurney flap, named for its inventor Dan Gurney, a former racing driver, designer and team owner. This 0.3-inch spoiler lip fitted to the rear wing at an angle of 90 degrees delivers a further increase in downforce without significantly increasing drag. The rear wing is complemented by additional carbon-fiber flics on the front skirt, which further increase downforce at the front axle, as opposed to the more inward-lying standard carbon-fiber flics, which optimize airflow into the cooling modules.

The eye-catching AMG Solar Beam exterior paint is available exclusively on the SLS AMG Black Series. Six further exterior paint finishes from the SLS AMG range are available, including the matte finish designo magno alanite grey.


Functional, performance interior that exudes quality

The interior of the SLS AMG Black Series features high-quality materials with precision workmanship and exquisitely designed details. There is a choice oftwo color variants: black designo leather with black Alcantara® or black designo leather with black/red Alcantara®. With the two-tone variant, the door cente rpanels and the applications on the center console and above the glove box are finished in red. The AMG Performance steering wheel with flattened rim at the bottom is wrapped entirely in Alcantara® for excellent grip. The top section of the steering wheel features a red 12 o'clock marking. The metal bezel has a high-gloss black paint finish to match the high-gloss black surrounds of the airvents. An exclusive Black Series detail is the "3D seam" that runs horizontally along the dashboard - a fine Alcantara®strip in anthracite running across the entire width of the leather covering. Red contrasting stitching provides a striking finish to the 3D seam, underscoring the hand-crafted character.

The combination of designo leather and Alcantara® features throughout the interior – on the bottom section of the dashboard, on the door center panels and on the AMG sports seats with center sections upholstered in Alcantara®. Embossed AMG logos on the head restraints are further exclusive eye-catchers.

For additional weight savings, the customer may delete the COMAND multimedia system. This reduces the vehicle's weight by an additional 13 pounds and further enhances the uncompromising character of the SLS AMG Black Series. In place of the screen between the air vents, a carbon-fiber trim element enhances the authentic racing atmosphere. Vehicle occupants will alsofind carbon fiber covering the entire center console, which is home to the AMG DRIVE UNIT. Bold highlights come from the red seat belts and red contrasting stitching on the AMG sports bucket seats, the center console, the upper and lower section of the dashboard and the door paneling. The floor mats also feature red piping.


Bang & Olufsen BeoSound AMG high-end surround sound system

A highlight among the optional equipment is the Bang & Olufsen BeoSound AMG high-end surround sound system, developed by Mercedes-Benz and Mercedes-AMG together with renowned Danish audio specialist Bang & Olufsen. The Bang & Olufsen BeoSound AMG high-end surround soundsystem with Dolby Digital 5.1 delivers an exclusive music experience of the very highest order. This is made possible by a 1000-watt amplifier and 11 speakers in conjunction with precise distribution of the music signals by the sound processor according to the selected seat positions – driver, co-driver or central. The DSP digital sound processor also enables the user to switchbetween high-end studio sound ("Reference") and a surround sound option. Allfunctions are controlled via COMAND in a special Bang & Olufsen menu. The illuminated 50-watt lens tweeters on the dashboard are a particular highlight,while the 250-watt subwoofer is integrated into the rear shelf. High-quality speaker covers sporting the Bang & Olufsen logo indicate the high-end system's exclusive character.


Further stand-alone options are also available:

-AMG carbon fiber exterior mirror
-AMG carbon fiber engine cover
-AMG Interior Carbon Fiber Package

The U.S. market launch of the 2014MY SLS AMG Black Series is scheduled for summer 2013.


Quick Reference:
Performance/Availability:
-On-Sale: Summer 2013
-2014 SLS AMG Black Series: 622hp, 468 lb-ft (SLS AMG GT: 583hp, 479 lb-ft)
-Top Speed: 196 mph
-0-60 mph: 3.5 seconds


New Standard Feature Highlights:
-Modified engine components for more power, increased rev limit of 8,000 rpm
-Track increased 0.8" (front) / 0.9" (rear)
-AMG 10-spoke forged alloy wheels in matte black, 10 x 19 (front)/12 x 20 (rear)
-CFRP hood, torque tube, diagonal underbody braces
-Revised AMG speed-sensitive power steering
-AMG Adaptive Performance Suspension
-AMG high-performance two-piece ceramic brakes
-Matte black forged wheels
-Electronically-controlled AMG rear axle differential lock
-Modified AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission
-New engine brace with gas-filled strut
-Titanium exhaust system


New Optional Equipment Highlights:
-AMG carbon-fiber exterior mirror
-AMG carbon-fiber engine cover
-AMG Interior Carbon Fiber Package
-AMG Aerodynamics Package
-AMG forged matte black wheels with polished rims
-Bang & Olufsen BeoSound AMG high-end surround sound system
-COMAND multimedia system delete

World's first hand-woven Car

World's first hand-woven Car, Nigeria: Artisan Ojo Obaniyi, who has made this car is a 40 year old man. His workshop is in Ibadan in southwest Nigeria. Don't think this car doesn't use fuel. It works like any other car. Nigerians use this fiber to make mats, baskets and other useful products.

Mercedes McLaren SLR Stirling Moss by Office-K

Japan company Office-K has developed a special exterior redesign for the Mercedes McLaren SLR Stirling Moss. The German supercar, driven by the legendary Sir Stirling Moss  is now fitted with a new set of Forgiato Pinzette wheels. They measure 21 inches at the front and 22 inches at the rear.

The Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Stirling Moss offers grand-prix driving experience. It is powered by an 5.4-liter supercharged V-8 engine delivering 641 hp. The Mercedes McLaren SLR Stirling Moss accelerates from 0 to 62-mph in less than 3.5 seconds, and the maximum speed is a 217 mph.

The Stirling Moss edition features a carbon-fiber exterior. It is highlighted by the exceptional front fascia. Two large hood vents are fitted near the cowl along with a smaller vent in the front. A deep body crease begins behind the front wheel and extends to the back of the door. Smaller and sleeker taillights give the rear a high-end look. The McLaren SLR Stirling Moss is fitted with a retractable air brake that can be operated manually.

The interior is highlighted by carbon fiber, aluminum, and leather. A special plate carries the engraved signature of Stirling Moss.

There are only 75 SLR Stirling Moss produced. The project is part of the manufacturing contract between Mercedes and McLaren

CHEVROLET TEASES BRAZIL-BOUND PRISMA SEDAN

Chevrolet's Brazilian arm has released two dark teaser images that preview the upcoming Prisma sedan ahead of its debut next March.  

Closely related to the Onix hatchback that was introduced last October, the Prisma will slot in towards the bottom of the Chevrolet lineup and compete against well-established sedans like the Volkswagen Voyage and the Toyota Etios.

Precisely what the car will look is not currently known but Chevrolet claims that it will blend economy sedan and sports car styling cues.

"It's what we call a sports sedan," affirmed Carlos Barba, the design director for General Motors of South America.

Like the Onix, the Prisma will be offered with a 1.0-liter four-cylinder engine that is rated at 80 horsepower and a 1.4-liter four-banger that makes 106 ponies.  Both engines will send power to the front wheels via a five-speed manual transmission, but the bigger unit will be available with an optoinal six-speed automatic transmission.  As is the norm in Brazil, both engines will be able to burn either ethanol or gasoline.

The Prisma is scheduled to be fully unveiled on February 26th, 2013.  After landing in showrooms across Brazil, it will be sold in a variety of neighboring countries but it will not make its way to Europe or to the United States.

Chevrolet Camaro Series

Mazda Taiki Concept