An Electric Future? Not yet.

According to the December issue of "Automobile Magazine," the Frankfurt Motor Show, held in Frankfurt, Germany declared that electricity has won the three way battle for the future of the automobile. Hydrogen and hybrids have lost.

I'm not so sure.

Automobile points to the concepts shown at Frankfurt. Most of them were electrics from Audi, Mercedes-Benz, Peugeot, Renault and Mitsubishi. Taken together, these companies represent the entire spectrum of cars from compacts to luxury.

Audi, in particular, completely embraced electricity with its e-tron concept.

Its got 308hp coming through the four electric motors that drive each wheel. In theory, it'll do 0-60 in 4.8 seconds.

That's the beauty of the electric motor, it lays down all of it's torque (the spinning force of an engine) instantly. There's no buildup, or revving, like in an internal combustion engine. So power isn't a problem when it comes to electric cars.

No, the greatest hurdle is the charging. That's what will hobble these cars.

Some people think that charging up large amounts of electrical vehicles will overload, and wipe out, the US power grid. Some studies have proven this to be false. But that debate is a moot point. The real problem, the real weak spot, is that the vehicles have to be charged in the first place.

For example, the e-tron. It would take 8 hours to charge it with a 220 volt outlet. With a 440 volt outlet the time gets cut to around 2 1/2 hours. Either way it's all too damn long.

The original purpose of the automobile was to create a form of freedom. Drivers could go anywhere after cranking an engine and hitting the throttle. All a car asks for is maintenance and gasoline.

There's no waiting. No eight hour charges and no plug ins.

That is why the electric car won't be the dominant form of transportation. At least not with the technology we have now. People won't buy a vehicle that requires them to map out their days, commutes and trips around charging times. It's inconvenient.

If the last ten years of technology have taught us anything it's that we won't tolerate anything inconvenient.

Electric cars will be popular in large cities or other places where destinations are fairly close, and charging times aren't as influential. Also, someone will surely create a quick charge system that will significantly lower charging times. However, that will probably reduce the life of the batteries, which are the most expensive parts of an electric car.

That is why hydrogen should get more attention. It's almost a renewable resource and, when used, produces only water. There's no charging. It's like gasoline and involves a filling station, which is much more familiar to consumers.

Hydrogens's critics point out that there is no national distribution system. But they've forgotten something. Gas stations didn't magically appear all over the US when the Ford Model T came out. It took time.

That is why the future of the automobile will be a bastardized one: change takes time. Gasoline, diesel, electric, hybrid and maybe even hydrogen cars will roam our streets all at the same time.

Someone saying that one power source has won is very shortsighted, and foolish.

Ford Mustang V6 2011

Throughout the world, the benefits of listening to Ford vans are known to offer uncompromising driving experience in a major civil aviation. This growing tradition, the new 2011 Ford Mustang V6 Performance Package will offer a factory-installed option that combines a powerful high-tech and a stiff suspension in a package that will appeal to fans to follow the day and sports car enthusiasts themselves.

Powered by the same 305 hp all-aluminum V6 Ti-VCT as the new 2011 Ford Mustang, the Performance Group leverages the new light engine, high-speed nature of providing agile performance car as comfortable on a road or a trip.

The new package delivers faster, more fun and accessible, which combines all-new 2011 Ford Mustang GT V6 prowess," said Dave Pericak, Mustang chief engineer of the plate. "This is a true sports car for the new generation and a smart choice for the environment-conscious enthusiast. It 'a perfect blend of power, performance and value.

2011 Mustang Performance Package upgrades include:

* A 3.31 rear axle ratio for quicker off-the-line acceleration
* Ford Mustang GT coupe front and rear stabilizer bars
* Ford Mustang GT front struts and rear shocks/springs
* Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 rear lower control arm
* Unique 19-inch wheels
* Pirelli performance tires for improved grip
* Ford Mustang GT front and rear brake calipers with Performance Friction pads
* A strut tower brace for increased body rigidity
* Unique electronic stability control calibration with Sport mode for performance driving
* Unique badging

Brabus B63 S 2010

The fast-rpm 6.3-liter V8 becomes even stronger with the kit Brabus B63 S performance. The conversion consists of two sport air filters, free movement of metal catalysts and newly programmed engine electronics. The development kit bumps power output of 525 hp engine standard (517 hp) / 386 kW to 30 hp (30 bhp) / 22 kW. At the same time develops a maximum torque 630-650 Nm (464-479 lb-ft) at 5400 rpm. Brabus recommends Aral fully synthetic motor oil high performance

Minimize the lift is essential in a fast car like that. The BRABUS designers went into the wind tunnel to develop components that are as stunning aerodynamic improvements that are effective. These components are made from carbon fiber coated clear. The apron in front of the production of the sedan and wagon can be improved with a spoiler lip. The aerodynamics of the rear of the sedan can still be improved, with a diffuser and a rear spoiler.

Even more powerful and unique accessories for the latest top-of-the-line Mercedes-Benz E-Class model, the E63 AMG By Brabus B63 S engine tuning, the power of both sedan and wagon to jump 555 hp (547 hp) / 408 kW and skip their maximum speed to 320 km / h (200 mph). Brabus also offers exclusive accessories like sporty yet elegant aerodynamic enhancement components, tailored tire / wheel combinations up to 20 inches in diameter and custom interior options.

To transfer more power to the road with a record as possible, Brabus offers a limited-slip differential with a locking rate of 40 per cent for the E63 AMG.

Mini Cooper Convertible

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The Next Mini, Now with 50 Percent Less Practicality

The degree of practicality is what often defines how cool a car is.

Impractical cars, like a Ferrari, are considered cool because they have ridiculously powerful engines that suck gas down faster than a black hole, stylish bumpers that can't get over a standard speedbump and prices that will buy at least four standard houses.

This inherent lack of usability, and high price, ensures that the most expensive cars will be driven rarely, which means it's an important event when people see one in person. Hence, the car is cool.

A Toyota Camry, on the other hand is very practical. It will seat at least four people, its trunk will carry everything from groceries to mom's potted plants and the price is something people can afford. Thus, it is seen everywhere and doesn't garner the same amount of attention.

So what does this have to do with the next Mini? Well, take a look.

Behold, the Mini Coupe Concept. This is what happens when Germans get creative and start playing with the roofs on hatchbacks.

For comparison to the original model:

All that glass and metal disappeared in the Coupe. It saved somewhere between 175 and 200lbs.

But there's still a trunk. It's not nearly as large as the standard model's hatchback, but at around eight cubic feet it's enough to carry a couple of boxes.

When they trimmed the roof they also threw out the backseats. By getting rid of the rear seats, ones that only children could sit in for a short period of time, Mini has increased the coolness factor of this car.

Now, that is a rather typical thing to say about a car, that it's cool. But when it comes to cars, and most products, image is everything. While Mini is still associated with sporty, fun to drive hatchbacks, it doesn't turn heads and garner a double-take any more.

When they first came out, people took notice of the hatchback because it was a fresh design. Now, they're seen everywhere and the redesign a couple of years ago didn't change enough to keep it fresh. So something new is needed.

By introducing some impracticality, and drastically changing the profile of the car, Mini created something new and interesting. It's something that will turn heads when it starts rolling down the streets, which will revive interest in the brand.

Combine those looks with a very nice interior and you've got a desirable compact car.


By wrapping the well equipped interior with a fresh package, and a decent sized trunk, Mini has found the intersection where useful and impractical meet at what should be a reasonable price.

When this is built, and it's going to reach showrooms eventually, let's hope that BMW doesn't change a thing.

Kia Cadenza 2011

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The traditional three-box sedan form was retained, but has been transformed into a fluid and, with a CD aerodynamic only 0.29. The innovative treatment of light is a constant theme of the design. At the front of the second generation of LED lamps are used to define the width of the vehicle and the shape of the headlights. On the reverse combination light clusters feature LED lights and this position, together with the dual exhausts integrated into the bumper, underscore the sporty look of the new Kia Cadence. As an option, a full-length three parts of the panoramic glass roof is available.

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Kia new platform for front-wheel drive 'type N' makes its first appearance on Cadenza Kia Kia and other models are used in the future. The lighter (and stronger) body, along with all new suspension systems, has helped Kia Cadence to weight loss to achieve up to 130 kg over the previous Opirus - even if the new model has many additional features.

(Click Image to Enlarge)

As part of efforts to increase the sale of Kia in the segment of large sedans, the new Kia Cadence with a total of three petrol engines will be produced - with different engines available around the world, the best solution with local requirements. Power outputs range from 165 hp to 290 hp and all models will be equipped with front wheel drive and the Kia brand new six speed automatic transmission.

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The production of the sedan will start at Cadence new Kia plant Hwasung this month for the domestic market and in January 2010 for export markets. Export sales to the market (Central and South America, the Caribbean, Asia (excluding China), Pacific, Middle East and Africa, excluding North America and Europe), will begin in March 2010 and in China, June 2010.

Mini Cooper S Cabrio

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2010 9ff Speed9 Specification

2010 9ff Speed9 Technical Data and Specification

This is 9ff Speed9 bi-turbo engine generations 650 horsepower and delivers 890 nm torque at just 2850 rpm. This is achieved by the 9ff F650 VTG turbochargers, 100 cell sports catalytic converter as well as the 9ff stainless steel exhaust manifolds. Other measures like the 9ff sports air filter, the 9ff ECU upgrade and the 9ff sports exhaust system.

The demanding chassis, consisting of adjustable stabilizers on the front and rear axles, double springs, and four aluminum spring plates, support ambitious driving. One can also count on the 9ff brake system consisting of 380 mm compound brake discs in combination with 6-piston calipers and 9ff brake pads.

The 9ff Speed9 is available as a complete vehicle as well as a rebuilding order on the basis of a Porsche 997 Turbo.2010 9ff Speed9 Specifications

Tuner 9ff

Engine Location Mid

Drive Type Rear Wheel



Engine

Engine Configuration O

Cylinders 6

Aspiration/Induction Twin-turbocharged

Displacement 3.60 L | 219.7 cu in. | 3600.9 cc.

Valves 24 valves.

4 valves per cylinder.

Valvetrain DOHC

Horsepower 650.00 BHP (478.4 KW)

Torque 890.00 NM (656.2 Ft-Lbs)

HP / Liter 180.6 BHP / Liter

Fuel Feed Fuel Injected

Block Aluminum

Head Aluminum



Standard Transmission

Gears 6

Transmission Semi-Automatic

Clutch Twin Clutch

Porsche PDK

Mini Coupe Concept

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Lexus LFA 2011

The new Lexus LFA is an important moment in both the history and development of the Lexus supercar. A real piece of "clean" design, Lexus LFA was created by a small team of passionate and dedicated engineers whose deployment has been to push the limits of materials technology and engineering at every stage to make a car do not like others to have carried the Lexus badge.


CONSTRUCTION OF CARBON FIBER

Keep the weight of the car to an absolute minimum has been one of the elements that define the development of disadvantaged regions Lexus, which has led to the decision to switch from aluminum to build the car to the most advanced carbon-reinforced fiber plastic (CFRP) for chassis and bodywork.

In addition, Lexus has decided CFRP structure should be built at home, rather than by a third party vendor. Thus, it has a wealth of Toyota Motor Corporation to build the technology to expand the scope of their technical capacity, developing new carbon-fiber chassis and a laser system for monitoring the integrity of the material


The Lexus LFA will be assembled by hand in the Motomachi plant in Toyota City. Only 500 units will be constructed at a maximum rate of 20 per month To ensure the best quality construction and attention to detail. Each V10 engine will be assembled by a technician only, and will bring his signature, as evidenced by the state to measure each Lexus LFA.

The launch price in Britain for the Lexus LFA is € 368,000 (approx £ 336,000). Owners can choose from a wide range of options to customize their cars, including 30 different paints. Some items of standard equipment can also be removed, as the audio system, to Reduce the weight of the car.

Source: autonews.com

Mini One Clubman

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It's a Mini-Vette

Behold, what you get when you Xerox a Corvette and hit the 70 percent button: the Opel GT (1968-1973).

It's a wee German car from Opel, another company that GM keeps in its wallet like an extra credit card. Thankfully GM decided to keep Opel around instead of axing it in their bankruptcy massacre and sell off.

Anyway, back to the car. It really is like a small Corvette. It's got the classic long hood, short trunk that's long been the definitive look for a sports car.

The headlights don't pop up, they roll over. Inside the car is a lever that the driver has to crank to turn the lights over. It would be pretty annoying, but at least it's simple.

You'd never see anything like that in a modern German car. Instead, they use a voice activated button that pops up under the brake pedal and the driver has to press it three times (with their pinky toe) while reciting the refrain of "Ode to Joy" backwards.

The GT, then, is pretty much the antithesis of the German car industry as we know it today.

For proof, just look at the name: GT. It's not GX45882726il. Just two letters. It's enough.

The car is so basic that it doesn't even have a trunk lid. Seriously.

Luggage, or what little you can fit in it, has to get shoved in behind the seats. Which is fine because, really, how much cargo can you fit in a car this small?

To give you an idea of just how tiny this thing is, I've heard stories of these things driving under semi-truck trailers without any problems. Or decapitations. It's a tiny grand tourer (GT) that two people are meant to use for a short weekend getaway.

That's what's refreshing about the GT, it knows what it is and it doesn't compromise. It doesn't try to offer luxury appointments, which would add weight.

Instead, the designers just used some molded black plastic and extended the doors into the car's roof. It reflects the GT's slightly sporting intentions.


The interior has a single purpose: hold the passengers while the car moves. However, like many other interiors I've featured, it doesn't feel claustrophobic. The windshield and door windows are huge in comparison to the rest of the car. It's airy. (But the bud vase is someone's stupid idea of an add on. No self respecting car in the world should have a bud vase.)

Oh, and the lever that seems to be sticking through the steering wheel? It's the lever that the driver cranks to turn on the headlights.

All the power comes from this small four-cylinder engine.

Under that ribbed, chromed valve cover are either 67 or 75 miniature horsepowers, depending on the size of the engine.

Honestly, it's not a lot. But when the car weighs as much as an empty Rubbermaid container, you don't need a lot of power.

That's what the GT comes down to: doing a lot with a little and doing it as simply as possible. After all, when you're having fun, does it matter how complicated your car is?

I think not.

Hyundai Santa Fe 2010

Draft Review of Hyundai Santa Fe concentrate on fine details. At the front grille, two black bars, is replaced by the release of chromium cut three bars, while the revised light clusters sit on a new bumper which also houses the fog lamps carved more in new a black frame. The earnings of a rear bumper, new curves perfectly into the most distinctive clusters of light, while the trapezoidal exhaust pipes and new designs of alloy wheel improve the position of the car and the presence road.

The Hyundai Santa Fe retains its MPV rivals exceptional practical, versatile option with seven more seats available for a weight of 750 pounds on the two small models of style and Premium. In both versions, 969 liters with a large load space in five seat configuration - double that of some of its rivals - the rise of a van type 2247, all seats folded. There is an increase of 34 liters over the previous model. Seven versions of the seat is also equipped with a self-leveling rear suspension set up glass and rear privacy glass as standard, while five versions of the seat for a sub-storage area floor.

Significant improvements in the economy and emissions are pulled back management costs of the Hyundai Santa Fe and maintenance intervals have been doubled to 20,000 miles, helping to reduce maintenance costs. Drivers of cars the company to consider P11Ds find the best prices and levels of CO2 reduce their contributions even further, with the Hyundai Santa Fe from 29% to 26% tax rate - savings of hundreds of Car drivers in the company tax year. In fact, the Hyundai Santa Fe is not only more efficient to tax evasion than other 4x4 rivals, but may also be a real alternative to minivans and station wagon.

These impressive figures are helped by a series of developments of intelligent engineering, including the prestigious six-speed manual transmission and automatic systems management alternative that is released when it is not necessary to save fuel . Drivers who seek to maximize the benefits of efficiency are aided by the Eco Drive Indicator "on the automatic version to monitor fuel efficiency, while the manual versions have a very good indication of the change point speed integrated display board computer.