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Showing posts with label Geneva Motor Show. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Geneva Motor Show. Show all posts

Thursday, March 3, 2011

2011 Artega SE Concept


German sports car manufacturer Artega Motors has presented the electric powered Artega SE at the Geneva Motor Show, which is now in progress has become an important event for the automotive industry players such as Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, BMW, Lamborghini. Do not miss one of them a German automobile manufacturer, Artega.

Artega SE equipped with electric motors embedded in the rear axle. The electric motor can be issued a 280 kW power (380 bhp PS/275). With a weight that is not too heavy, Artega SE can move from point 0-100 km / h with a count time of 4.3 seconds.

Artega has maintained a 43:57 weight balance with the EV coupe, in spite of the 115kg weight penalty over the GT model thanks mainly to the battery packs. The Artega SE goes from 0-62mph in 4.3 seconds - half a second faster than its V6 stablemate - and top speed is quoted as ‘over 155mph’. 

The top speed is well over 250km / h. Electricity comes from a 37 kWh lithium-polymer battery with a rated voltage of 350 V. Artega IF band is 300 km (186 miles) on the European test cycle (NEDC – New European Driving Cycle), but the automaker says that a driving style more “comfortable” (read realistic) amounts to a range of 200 km (124 miles).

The car is expected to be introduced in the late summer of 2011, prior to the IAA in Frankfurt. If the reaction is as positive as expected, a concerted effort will be made immediately to prepare the car for mass production. It could be on the market by April 2012.


2011 Artega SE Concept 2011 Artega SE Concept 2011 Artega SE Concept 2011 Artega SE Concept 2011 Artega SE Concept 2011 Artega SE Concept 2011 Artega SE Concept 2011 Artega SE Concept


Press Release

Artega at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show


World premier of the electrically powered Artega SE

At the 81st Geneva Motor Show from 1-13 March 2011, Artega Automobil GmbH & Co. KG will introduce an electric version of its mid-engine sports car. "Our aim is to combine environmental responsibility with the passion for automobiles," said Artega chief executive Peter Müller.

With this forward-looking project, the company headquartered in Delbrück once again demonstrates the benefits and strengths of its manufacturing plant. Technical expertise and quick decision-making processes have enabled the company to implement a completely new drive concept in a very short period of time. Artega has also cooperated with the Fraunhofer Institute, one of the most competent development partners in the automotive sector. The research organization bought two Artega vehicles more than a year ago to test their feasibility as electrically powered cars.

The new electric model will be announced at a press conference at 1 p.m. on 1 March 2011 at the Artega stand in Hall 4, exhibit stand #4231. Peter Müller will report on the company's progress since its appearance at last year's Geneva Motor Show and will introduce the newly established company Artega Automobile Switzerland AG.

Following Mr. Muller's presentation, Dr. Wolfgang Ziebart will elucidate the technical features of the Artega SE. The initials stand for "Sport Electric." The initiator of the E-mobility project is convinced of the advantages of electrically powered sports cars. "Sports car drivers usually have a very dynamic driving style, with frequent acceleration and braking, which is very energy inefficient. But electric cars recuperate the energy lost through braking and return it to the battery. In addition, unlike combustion engine vehicles, electric vehicles convert the full extent of the engine torque immediately, which makes driving them a completely new, very dynamic experience."

The manufacturing plant in Delbrück will shortly make it possible for people to experience these advantages first-hand. The vehicle is expected to be introduced in the late summer of 2011, prior to the IAA in Frankfurt. If the reaction is as positive as expected, a concerted effort will be made immediately to prepare the car for mass production. It could be on the market by April 2012.

Artega®GT with serial carbon fibre hood, EU5 and individual configuration

A front hood made of carbon fiber reinforced plastic and EU5 are standard on the Artega®GT. The model shown at the company's Geneva exhibit also underscores the benefits of the in-house manufacturing concept, which offers the best potential for creating extraordinary, exclusive vehicles. For starters, there are no limits to the colors available. The Geneva Motor Show version, for example, is in Suzuka grey metallic with matching upholstery in two colors: the top of the instrument panel and the door trim moldings are upholstered in black leather, while the rest of the upholstery is red leather. Other sporty features include the air intakes and the hood with a visible carbon structure, which provide another clear indication of the uncompromising lightweight construction of the GT. The black wheels also underscore the sports car's high performance.

The Artega SE

High performance with zero emissions


Two electric motors on the rear axle with a total output of 280 kW (380 horsepower) give the car its powerful thrust. The two engines operate independently, with each driving one of the rear wheels. The Artega SE accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in just 4.3 seconds (4.8 seconds with a combustion engine). Unlike the combustion engine, the electric engines transmit their power linearly and immediately, with no delay. The maximum velocity is well over 250 km/h. The entire drive train weight just 150 kilograms. The degree of efficiency is extremely high, namely more than 90%.

State-of-the-art battery technology

A total of 16 tried-and-tested battery modules with lithium ion polymer cells are built into the Artega SE. Each of these modules contains 12 battery cells, and they operate for the most part autonomously. Twelve modules are located in the rear of the vehicle and four in the front. All of the batteries are water-cooled and produce a total of 37 kilowatt/hours and a nominal voltage of 350 V. The total weight of the battery system is 310 kg.

According to the New European Driving Cycle standard, the Artega SE has a range of 300 kilometers; under normal driving conditions it can comfortably achieve 200 km. The batteries can be recharged using conventional household electricity with the help of a plug in the rear of the vehicle. The recharging time can be considerably reduced when park-and-ride stations or special parking lots with recharging facilities are used. The depleted batteries can be fully recharged in just 90 minutes.

The Artega design promises optimal results with low added weight

The mid-engine concept and the rear-attached subframe for the drive unit are excellently suited for use with an electric motor. The axle distribution of 57% in the rear and 43% in the front is identical to that of the Artega®GT with a combustion engine. Its uncompromising lightweight construction gives it a total weight according to EU standards of just 1285 kilograms - a decisive advantage over its competition. The Artega SE weighs in at 1400 kg, just about 10% more than the GT version. That means the handling and braking performance will be comparable to those of the Artega®GT, which received outstanding reviews in the trade press. The entire vehicle with brakes and damping has the appropriate dimensions to accommodate the added power of 59 kW (80 horsepower) and resulting improved performance of the electric version.

Innovative recuperation settings

Using the toggle switches on the steering wheel, the driver can adjust the recuperation rate when he removes his foot from the accelerator. The settings are variable from about 75 kW to zero recuperation, a level referred to as "sailing." This allows the driver to modify the characteristics of the acceleration pedal to suit his own wishes or the respective driving conditions.

The instrument cluster has been redesigned with combined analog/digital displays for speed, range, battery level and energy flow.

Sufficient production capacity in Delbrück

With 4000 square meters of production space, the plant in Delbrück is easily capable of manufacturing a second version of the sports car. It is possible to make up to 500 vehicles per year without compromising the extremely high quality standards the company has set for itself.

There is a market for high-quality electric cars

The McKinsey consulting company has conducted extensive research into the market for electric cars and published the results in its quarterly report in February 2011. The report said the potential customer demand for all-electric and hybrid vehicles with electric engines is currently as high as 16% in major metropolitan areas such as New York, Paris and Shanghai. Moreover, interest in buying such vehicles was independent of the availability of charging stations - and also independent of state subsidies or incentives.

The target groups interested in electric cars can be categorized as public institutions, companies that want to make a contribution to the environment and the so-called "early adopters," customers found primarily in large urban areas who are generally willing to spend more for technological innovations. As a rule, this target group owns at least one additional car, so any limitations in the potential range of electric cars would play a subordinate role.

Thanks to careful calculation, Artega is able to offer the exclusive SE at the attractive price of 150,000 euros. This price lies between that of existing first-generation sports cars and the anticipated price of mass-produced electric sports cars that have been announced by the major manufacturers.

The vehicle is one of a kind

The Artega SE is sure to enhance social acceptance of the sports cars of tomorrow. After all, it is a fine example of German engineering and will be manufactured "by hand" to meet the customer's individual wishes - just like its counterpart with a combustion engine, the Artega GT. The new German sports car from Delbrück in North Rhine-Westphalia is a one-of-a-kind vehicle. The small-scale manufacturing process makes it possible to incorporate numerous new technologies. The Artega - whether with a combustion engine or an electric motor - is a genuine innovation and sets itself apart from other vehicles.


Overview of the Artega GT

Unmistakable design


The renowned designer Henrik Fisker, who created the BMW Z8 and the Aston Martin Vantage, among other models, has created an unmistakable design with the length of a compact car (4.015 meters) and the width of a luxury limousine (1.88 meters). It is both powerful and appealing.

Impressive performance with low consumption figures thanks to uncompromising lightweight construction
A combination of materials familiar from racing sports, namely an aluminum space frame, high-strength steel and alloys reinforced with carbon fiber, give the Artega®GT an unloaded weight of just 1285 kilograms in spite of the extensive standard equipment built into the vehicle. This makes the sports car one of the lightest in its class.

The V6 engine has a cubic capacity of 3597 cubic centimeters and produces 300 horsepower (220 kW), resulting in a performance ratio of 4.28 kilograms per HP. The low weight-to-performance ratio and the state-of-the-art drive train ensure extreme agility and impressive driving performance. The car accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.8 seconds. Its highest speed is 270 kilometers per h our.

The midship concept and direct steering optimize driving pleasure. Average consumption according to EURO 5 standards is just 9.2 liters per 100 kilometers.

The ultimate in exclusivity

Artega has built a factory that produces individual vehicles with great care. One of its trademarks is the high percentage of parts produced in-house, including the chassis, wheel suspension, engine periphery and the fueling and exhaust systems. Each individual vehicle is put together in traditional handwork to meet the specifications of the customer. Highly skilled workers assemble the technical components, the body and the interior.

The Artega will always remain an exclusive product. The factory in Delbrück will manufacture no more than 500 sports cars per year.

Wednesday, March 2, 2011

Chevrolet Cruze hatchback


The Chevrolet Cruze hatchback will get its production-ready debut at Geneva Motor Show. Dubbed Cruze HB5, the hatchback is identical to the Cruze sedan from the rear doors forward.

Offering customers an alternative body style of the award-winning Cruze Sedan, the 2012 Chevrolet Cruze Hatchback sports an attractive sweeping coupe roofline and short overhangs at both the front and rear. It exudes the same dynamic stance as the renowned Cruze sedan yet utilizes body-frame integral system to ensure pleasant driving experience and handling.

The compact segment in Europe represents a quarter of the total market and hatchbacks account for about 65% of the compact segment. The Cruze hatch uses the same structure as the sedan to remain true to the taut ride and handling characteristics preferred by European drivers. The main difference is a cargo capacity of 400 litres, which expands exponentially with the use of 60/40 split folding seats.

Expected to power the Cruze hatchback are the same power plants as in the sedan variant - a 113 PS (83 kW / 111 hp) 1.6-liter petrol, a 141 PS (104 kW / 139 hp) 1.8-liter petrol, and a 150 PS (110 kW / 148 hp) 2.0-liter diesel.


Chevrolet Cruze hatchbackChevrolet Cruze hatchbackChevrolet Cruze hatchbackChevrolet Cruze hatchbackChevrolet Cruze hatchbackChevrolet Cruze hatchbackChevrolet Cruze hatchbackChevrolet Cruze hatchbackChevrolet Cruze hatchbackChevrolet Cruze hatchbackChevrolet Cruze hatchbackChevrolet Cruze hatchback


Press Release

Geneva world premiere for Cruze hatchback


  • New model to build on global success of Chevrolet's favorite car
  • Cruze hatchback cements Chevrolet's mainstream credentials in Europe
  • One of seven new entries in centenary year

Zurich. Chevrolet's award-winning - and now World Touring Car Championship (WTCC)-winning - Cruze will further enhance its credentials this year when the new hatchback version goes on sale in spring. The full production model makes its world premiere at the 81st international Geneva Motor Show, March 3 - 11.

The timing of the new model couldn't be better for Chevrolet, with the manufacturer being crowned World Touring Car Champions in December for the first time. Chevrolet's racing success proves the dynamic potential and qualities of the Cruze, while the launch of a new 5-door hatchback model in addition to the sedan, is further evidence of Chevrolet's intention to bring value for money to the mainstream segments of the European market.

A show car version of Chevrolet's compact contender was shown at the Paris Motor Show last September, and was warmly received.

Sales of the Cruze last year surpassed the Aveo to become Chevrolet's top selling passenger car nameplate globally. Since its launch in the spring 2009, the Cruze sedan has been warmly welcomed by markets all over the world, greeted as a step change for the brand with customers attracted to its coupe style, build quality, 5-star NCAP rating and driving dynamics. It was also elected the AUTOBEST car of 2010 by a jury of leading auto writers in Central and Eastern Europe.

The introduction of the new Cruze hatchback is critical in Europe, as Wayne Brannon, president and managing director of Chevrolet Europe explains. "Hatchbacks play a critical role in many markets. The total compact segment in Europe represents over a quarter of the total market, with hatchbacks representing around 65% of that volume.

"The new Cruze hatchback cements that Chevrolet's claim for a place among the mainstream brands in Europe, and it's a vehicle that will bring new levels of value against some of the more established competition."

Hatchback design

With its attractive sweeping coupe roofline and short overhangs at both the front and rear, the new Cruze hatchback has the same dynamic 'stance' as the sedan and will be instantly recognizable.

It will benefit too from the same taut body 'feel' on the road, being built using the new body-frame integral system (BFI) which is complemented by the final tuning to chassis components. The BFI system results in high levels of stability and solidity. Indeed the Chevrolet Cruze is a car particularly well suited to European driver tastes, a fact borne out by sales across many of the markets and where in 2010, it exceeded forecasts.

Cargo capacity for the Cruze hatchback is close to 400 liters and it will feature 60/40 split rear seating.

The new Chevrolet Cruze 5-door hatchback will go on sale across Europe in mid 2011 with prices announced nearer the launch date.


Tuesday, March 1, 2011

2011 Geneva Motor Show: Ruf Rt 12R


The German tuning specialists RUF are ready with their new model called Rt 12 R – based on the latest Porsche 911. The car is exhibited in Geneva and will definitely catch the attention of the audience.

The RT 12 (for 12th generation of RUF-tuned 911 Turbos) has received a power boost for the R model, taking its output to 730hp and torque to 693lb ft. The car receives a prominent rear wing similar to the one fitted to the GT3 RSR race car, and also gets a carbon fibre bonnet and front bumper. Inside, a new grade of steel has been used for the integral roll cage saving 8kg and the interior is stripped of luxuries.

With an overall dry curb weight of 3,295 pounds, the Rt 12 R will hustle to 62 mph in under 4.0 seconds and go all the way to reach a top speed of more than 230 mph.

On the outside RUF details this racer with carbon components including a rear spoiler, bonnet and front mudguards. Also part of the outfitting are lightweight doors made of aluminum and side and rear windows out of plastic. Optional is the carbon roof.

The twin-turbo boxer engine with 3.8 liter engine provides 537 kW (730 hp) with maximum torque of 940 Nm. Power is transmitted via a six-speed manual transmission, four-wheel drive provides maximum driving dynamics. The weight-optimized R, with details of the racing, is ideal for racing. The suspension is adjustable.

The price of the RUF Rt 12 R is set at €279,000 or about US$386,400 at today’s exchange rates.


RUF Rt 12 RRUF Rt 12 RRUF Rt 12 RRUF Rt 12 R


Press Release

The Rt 12 family has grown.

RUF presented at the Geneva Motor Show 2011 (03 - 13 March), the brand new Rt 12 R. The twin-turbo boxer engine with 3.8 liter engine provides 537 kW (730 hp) with maximum torque of 940 Nm. Power is transmitted via a six-speed manual transmission, four-wheel drive provides maximum driving dynamics. The weight-optimized R, with details of the racing, is ideal for racing. The suspension is adjustable.

Technical data:

Coupé body
Carbon rear spoiler
Lightweight front mudguard with carbon
Carbon bonnet
Carbon-roof option
Lightweight aluminum doors with door panels
Rear and side windows made of plastic
Carbon bucket seats
In the headliner integrated roll cage with cross brace (IRC)
Ceramic brakes, front disc diameter 380 mm, rear 350 mm
Forged aluminum wheels with central locking, front 9J x 19, Rear 12J x 19
Michelin Pilot Sport Cup, front 245/35 ZR 19, rear 325/30 ZR 19

Six-cylinder bi-turbo boxer engine
Capacity 3.8 l
Power 537 kW (730 hp) at 7,000 rpm
Maximum torque 940 Nm at 3,500 rpm
Six-speed manual transmission
Four-wheel drive (rear wheel drive optional)
Maximum speed of 370 km / h
Kerb weight DIN 1495 kg

Price: 279.000,00 € (plus VAT)

Lotus Evora Enduro GT Concept


Lotus has unveiled the new Lotus Evora Enduro GT race car at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show in Switzerland. The Evora Enduro GT Concept is the base car for the new Lotus GT2/GTE car that will be racing in the Intercontinental Le Mans Cup this season and is an evolved version of the Lotus GT4 Endurance. Lotus Motorsport, under the supervision of lead designer Nicola Scimeca developed the new car.

The vehicle rides on 18 inch forged alloys wrapped in 24/64-18 - 27/65-18 tires front and rear, while providing the necessary stopping power is a performance brake system with 22 mm race pads, two piece aluminium belled discs and 6 piston callipers at the front and 4-piston calliper at the rear.

Powered by a mid-mounted 4-litre DOCH V6 VVT-i engine, naturally aspirated and tuned by Cosworth, the Lotus Evora Enduro GT Concept develops 440 bhp @ 7,000 rpm and 460 Nm of torque @ 5,500 rpm.

The rear wheels get their power from the engine through an XTRAC 426 six-speed sequential gearbox. An optional pneumatic paddle-shift system can be fitted. Handling comes down to a forged double wishbone layout, four-way adjustable Ohlins TTX36 dampers, coaxial coil springs, increased camber, and adjustable anti-roll bars. Mated with racing slicks, it should prove formidable, especially with its mid-engine layout.


Lotus Evora Enduro GT Concept Lotus Evora Enduro GT Concept Lotus Evora Enduro GT Concept Lotus Evora Enduro GT Concept


Press Release

Evora Enduro - GT Concept


The Evolving Evora

The Evora Enduro - GT concept car is an evolved version of the podium placing Evora GT4 Endurance. The Enduro has been developed by Lotus Motorsport under the expert eye of Lead Designer Nicola Scimeca.

The Enduro will be the base point from which the GT2/GTE homologated cars for FIA (Federation Internationale de l'Automobile) and ACO (l'Automobile Club de l'Ouest) endurance racing will be built.

Lotus Motorsport intend to contend the following endurance events this year:

  • 23 – 26 June 2011 Nürburgring ADAC 24 Hour Race (GER)
  • 28 – 31 July 2011 Spa 24 Hour Race (BEL)
  • 8 & 9 October 2011 Silverstone 24 Hour Race (GB)

The 24 hour races in Dubai and Daytona are on the list for 2012.

The Evora Enduro can be bought by private individuals and adapted for racing.