car xpress october 2011

1

BMW’s extraordinary roadsterThe future is now

New Audi Q3Versatile and urbane

McLaren’s MP4-12C GT3Ready to race

Volume 7 . Issue 66 . October 2011

The Corvette Stingray Concept: ‘Transformers’ ‘Sideswipe’

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When it comes to 4x4 luxury, there are few that compare to the new Nissan Patrol. Command attention on any road with its supreme performance from an unmatched 400hp engine. Savor every mile of effortless acceleration while the thoughtfully crafted interior wraps itself around you. Step inside and witness the decadent result of perfected history.

REWARD EVERY SENSEWITH LUXURY.

• Saudi Arabia: Alhamrani United Co., Jeddah, Tel: 02-6696690, Alhamrani Trading & Import Co., Riyadh, Tel: 01-4747777, Al-Jabr Trading Company, Damam, Tel: 03-8324300 • Dubai & Northern Emirates: Arabian Automobiles, Tel: 04-2952222 • Abu Dhabi & Al Ain: Al Masaood Automobiles, Tel: 02-6811118 • Kuwait: Abdulmohsen Abdulaziz Al Babtain Co.,

Tel: 4737977 • Oman: Suhail Bahwan Automobiles, Tel: 24560111 • Qatar: Saleh Alhamad Almana Co., Tel: 4283333 • Bahrain: Y.K. Almoayyed & Sons BSC(C), Tel: 736060 • Lebanon: Rasamny Younis Motor Co. S.A.L., Beirut, Tel: 01-273333

11

When it comes to 4x4 luxury, there are few that compare to the new Nissan Patrol. Command attention on any road with its supreme performance from an unmatched 400hp engine. Savor every mile of effortless acceleration while the thoughtfully crafted interior wraps itself around you. Step inside and witness the decadent result of perfected history.

REWARD EVERY SENSEWITH LUXURY.

• Saudi Arabia: Alhamrani United Co., Jeddah, Tel: 02-6696690, Alhamrani Trading & Import Co., Riyadh, Tel: 01-4747777, Al-Jabr Trading Company, Damam, Tel: 03-8324300 • Dubai & Northern Emirates: Arabian Automobiles, Tel: 04-2952222 • Abu Dhabi & Al Ain: Al Masaood Automobiles, Tel: 02-6811118 • Kuwait: Abdulmohsen Abdulaziz Al Babtain Co.,

Tel: 4737977 • Oman: Suhail Bahwan Automobiles, Tel: 24560111 • Qatar: Saleh Alhamad Almana Co., Tel: 4283333 • Bahrain: Y.K. Almoayyed & Sons BSC(C), Tel: 736060 • Lebanon: Rasamny Younis Motor Co. S.A.L., Beirut, Tel: 01-273333

2

Balloon adventures DPS copy.indd 1 11/3/09 5:49:29 PM

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Balloon adventures DPS copy.indd 1 11/3/09 5:49:29 PM

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Publisher Kalimat Group International FZ - LLC

Car Xpress Head Office Office G4, Building No.1, Phase One, P.O. Box 502408 Dubai Media City, UAE Tel: +971 4 391 0410/1/2/3 Fax: +971 4 391 6619

e-mail [email protected]

Founder Hekmat el Zein

Managing Director Shatha Sharaffdeen

Editor Jojo Dass

Assistant Editor Ayman Mjahed

Creative Designer Najeeb Hamza

Contributors Matt Carroll Alistair Weaver

Marketing Account Manager Shaza el Zein

Photographer Maher Rashed

Car Xpress Lebanon Office Riad el solh 11072070 P.O.Box 11-1197 Beirut, Lebanon Tel: +961 3 208 528 Fax: +961 1 924 440

Car Xpress Disclaimer

The material used in this publication is intended for informational purposes only. A sincere effort has been made to report details accurately, however, as specifications and models vary over time and upgrades are constantly appearing on the market, readers are advised to seek specialist assistance before acting on information offered in this publication.

All text and layout remains the copyright of Kalimat Group International FZ LLC, unless stated otherwise. Car Xpress is fully independent, and its views are not those of any company mentioned herein.

No part of this magazine may be reproduced without the written permission of the publisher.

All rights reserved.

© 2010-2011 Kalimat Group International

recycle kindly recycle when you are finsihed with it

Motormouth

Jojo Dass Editor

In this edition, we throw the lights on Chevrolet, which has delivered a futuristic vision of technology and design with the 50th anniversary Corvette Stingray Concept.

This head-turning, jaw-dropping rolling walk of art, which pushed everyone’s sanity to the edge at the 2009 Chicago Auto Show, where it debuted, starred as “Sideswipe” in Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen.

But what is perhaps most inspiring is that through the years since 1969, the Stingray became more and more sophisticated and civilized; yet in maturing, it didn’t forget that its main purpose in life was to be exhilarating, both in how it looked and how it drove.

Indeed! The Corvette Stingray Concept represented both the iconic legacy and an exciting future for Corvette.

The Stingray Concept also starred for the first time in the Middle East at the 10th Dubai International Motor Show in December 2009, and would most probably be dazzling the big boys craving new toys in this year’s DIMS.

* * * *Still at it, BMW has just upped the ante with its Vision ConnectedDrive Concept, a two-

passenger roadster seeking to push new boundaries in the realm of automotive technology.

The topless concept borrows much of its design from the Vision EfficientDynamics concept that’s on the road to production, but this show car focuses on three areas; comfort, safety and infotainment.

* * * *We totally agree—the new versatile and urbane Audi Q3, with its coupe-like styling, is a one-

of-a-kind among SUVs and symbolizes its sporty identity. The Audi Q3, which will be available in the Middle East from the first half of 2012, debuted commercially this year. The five-door coupe crossover was designed as more of a lifestyle-sports car.

convenience safetyinfotainment

JOY CREATES THE FUTURE.

BMW VISION CONNECTED DRIVE CONCEPT CAR.

Some great innovations were born in garages. Some just park there. Back in history, when the first automobiles were produced, the pioneering sensation was the car itself. Today, fascination is created by a car that doesn’t just drive, but one that enriches your day-to-day life with informative and entertaining innovations, ultimate safety technology and superior comfort. BMW is presenting a new chapter in intelligent engineering: the BMW Vision ConnectedDrive Concept Car. With all the dynamic innovations it is good to know you can access it right from the driver’s seat. Welcome a new era of motoring where your car connects you to the world.

BMWVisionConnectedDriveConcept Car

www.bmw-me.comSheer

Driving Pleasure

175_AG_ConnectedDrive_02_CarXpress_23x27.5cm.indd 1 4/28/11 4:21 PM

6

The 2012 Chevrolet Camaro

ZL1’s supercharged 6.2L engine is

SAE-rated at 580 horsepower and

754 Nm of torque – making it the

most powerful production Camaro

ever. The ZL1’s outstanding power is

complemented by advanced pow-

ertrain and chassis technologies,

including exclusive Performance

Traction Management and third-

generation Magnetic Ride Control.

“The Camaro ZL1 delivers

supercar performance and tech-

nology in the sports-car segment,”

said Al Oppenheiser, Camaro chief

engineer. “For sheer power, the ZL1

delivers more horsepower than a

Ferrari 458, more torque than an

Aston Martin DB9 V12, and a bet-

ter power-to-weight ratio than a

Porsche 911 Carrera GTS.

“The Camaro ZL1 also features

exclusive chassis and traction

technologies,” Oppenheiser said,

“to offer the best of all worlds –

including balanced handling for the

track, acceleration for a drag strip,

and the comfort of a daily driver.”

The 2012 Camaro ZL1’s sur-

passes the advertised power of

the legendary 1969 Camaro ZL1’s

427 cubic-inch big block by more

than 150 horsepower– while meet-

ing modern emissions require-

ments. “The torque is going to make

the ZL1 a car you won’t want to get

out of,” said John Rydzewski, assis-

tant chief engineer for small block

engines. “Not only will the ZL1 have

more power and torque than the

competition, we’re making it avail-

able with an optional automatic

transmission, to appeal to a wider

group of sports car enthusiasts.”

The all-aluminum LSA su-

percharged V-8 is part of GM’s

legendary small-block engine family.

For a solid foundation, the engine’s

lower end uses six-bolt main bear-

ing caps that clamp and lock in the

forged steel crankshaft to the

deep-skirt block. Its 1.9L Roots-

style blower uses an efficient

four-lob rotor set and compact

intercooler to deliver boosted air

into the high-flow cylinder heads.

news

Camaro ZL1 delivers 580 hp and exclusive technologies

Porsche Centre Abu Dhabi, a division of Ali & Sons Co. L.L.C., started 2011 on a high-note, delivering double-digit results during the first quarter with sales increasing by 15% compared to last year’s figures.

Wissam Khalil, Porsche Centre Abu Dhabi brand manager, said the figures are “proof of the strong position that Porsche Centre Abu Dhabi holds

in the region, extending the family of proud Porsche owners to 7,000 members, with a forecast of more to come.

“Achieving a 15% increase in sales for the first three months of 2011 is significant in the UAE’s highly competitive market, and is testament to the performance, technical finesse and allure that the brand represents.”

The remarkable figures in the first quarter of 2011 are the result of rigorous marketing and promotional initiatives. The launch of the new Cayenne, that embodies the Porsche’s sport-driving DNA combined with the luxury and performance of an SUV, contributed an impressive 65% to total sales. Other high performing models responsible for the strong numbers this year; Panamera made a 20% contribution, followed by a 15% input from the sales of popular sports models including the Porsche 911, Cayman and Boxster. The Al Ain showroom also contributed a strong 20% towards overall sales.

Emirates Motor Company (EMC), flagship company of Al Fahim Group, is the first Mercedes-Benz general distributor in the region to launch a five-year extended warranty on all Mercedes-Benz vehicles and Road Side Assistance Program as an additional standard feature on all new Mercedes-Benz vehicles purchased in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain, effective June 1, 2011 at no extra cost.

Kamal Rafih, EMC general manager said the move is part of the company’s commitment toward building a strong customer relationship. “We take it seriously and sincerely aim to exceed their expectations at all levels,” he said.

He said the company conducted a survey of its customers and reviewed feedback. “We returned with practical solutions that give them great savings and total peace of mind.”

Besides the new Extended Warranty Program, EMC launched the new ISP PLUS Coverage on the S and GL classes where all scheduled service work and related labor are covered for five years or 105,000 km (whichever comes first). In addition to the standard Mercedes-Benz ISP coverage, EMC will also cover brake pads, discs replacement and wiper blades replacement.

In April, the company launched the Integrated Service Package Plus (ISP+) on its most popular model, the S Class, and the spectacular SUV, the GL-Class (7-seater).

Mercedes-BenzAnother reason to love them more

Porsche Centre Abu Dhabi gets high 1Q sales

An Audi unlike any otherAudi has entered a new vehicle class with

the new Audi A1 which recently arrived in Dubai and the northern Emirates. The compact A1 condenses all of the virtues of the brand with the four rings – a progressive design, uncompromising quality and groundbreaking efficiency – within a space of less than four meters.

Audi celebrated the launch of the next big Audi with the Audi AreA1 from April 28th to May 4th this year at The Burj Steps between Burj Khalifa and The Dubai Mall, in front of The Dubai Fountain.

K. Rajaram, CEO of Al Nabooda Automo-biles, said, “The A1 is a modern city car espe-cially for the young generation. We thought it’s only fitting that the next big Audi is celebrated in style at Dubai’s tallest landmark, Burj Khalifa. We would like to thank Emaar for the opportunity and wish all visitors lots of fun with our new Audi A1.”

Its highly modern design integrates the A1 into the Audi family. The large single-frame grille, the distinctive roof arch and coupe-like C-pillars are among its defining style ele-ments. The interior of the A1 is surprisingly

spacious, bright and airy. The attention lav-ished on numerous details underscores the premium character of the A1 while innovative materials and modern colors emphasize the youthful character of the A1. Whether colored air vents, LED interior lights or seat covers in expressive colors – customization is the key. There are even a variety of paint finishes from which to choose for the roof arch.

The Audi A1 starts from only AED 89,900. In the Middle East it comes with especially developed super hot country settings, 4 years / 60.000 km service and 3 years warranty.

Plans are afoot to produce 20 road legal versions at over US$500K each.

The concept phase of the new MP4-12C GT3 race car began in the McLaren simulator in 2010. Like McLaren Formula 1 cars and the 12C road car, on which the 12C GT3 was based, the simulator has played a vital role in defining the GT3’s engineering requirements and technical specification. More recently, the 12C GT3 tested at FIA* certified circuits and produced race ready performance.

Following a test programme at Circuito de Navarra in Spain, Mark Vinnels, McLaren GT Pro-gramme Director said: “We defined the power, weight and downforce targets of the 12C GT3 using the simulator, and the set-up selected for the simulated GT3 car felt near-identical to the cars we tested for the first time in Navarra. The McLaren simulator is just one example of how we are preparing to deliver a GT3 car that is the most drive-able, reliable, and efficient car on the grid.”

The new MP4-12C GT3 underwent a rigorous development and testing programme over the 2011 race season before 20 cars were delivered to privateer teams for racing in 2012.

The GT3 version of the McLaren MP4-12C is powered by the 3.8-liter V8 twin turbo M838T engine (limited to 7500rpm), which is mated to a six-speed sequential transmission, with steering wheel mounted paddle shifters

The McLaren MP4-12C GT3 comes equipped with an LSD with a range of ramps and adjust-able pre-load, a hydraulically operated Sintered clutch, a wet sump and Driveshafts with tripod joints.

BeginningsFifteen years since a McLaren F1 GTR fa-

mously won the gruelling Le Mans 24 Hours race on its debut, McLaren has begun development work to turn the new MP4-12C into a limited volume of GT3 racing cars that will be available in time for 2012 GT3 championships.

With its revolutionary, carbon fibre MonoCell, the 12C is proving to be a natural platform on which to develop a race-winning car.

McLaren is making its way back into the GT sports car racing scene with a limited number

McLaren’sMP4-12C GT3

PERFORMANCE CAR

Ready to race

news

news 08

PERFORMANCE CAR 14 McLaren’s MP4-12C GT3

exotic CAR 20 BMW Vision ConnectedDrive

luxury car 28 Rolls-Royce celebrates centenary

CONCEPT CAR 32 The Corvette Stingray turns 50

SUV 40 New Audi Q3

www.car-xpress.com

contents

Rolls-Roycecelebrates centenary

luxury car

exotic car

BMW Vision ConnectedDrive Extraordinary roadster

The design and technology of this spectacular car are aimed at making the vehicle an integral part of a networked world.

TheCorvette Stingrayturns 50

CONCEPT CAR

SUV

New Audi Q3 Versatile and urbane

6 C a r X p r e s s

8

The 2012 Chevrolet Camaro

ZL1’s supercharged 6.2L engine is

SAE-rated at 580 horsepower and

754 Nm of torque – making it the

most powerful production Camaro

ever. The ZL1’s outstanding power is

complemented by advanced pow-

ertrain and chassis technologies,

including exclusive Performance

Traction Management and third-

generation Magnetic Ride Control.

“The Camaro ZL1 delivers

supercar performance and tech-

nology in the sports-car segment,”

said Al Oppenheiser, Camaro chief

engineer. “For sheer power, the ZL1

delivers more horsepower than a

Ferrari 458, more torque than an

Aston Martin DB9 V12, and a bet-

ter power-to-weight ratio than a

Porsche 911 Carrera GTS.

“The Camaro ZL1 also features

exclusive chassis and traction

technologies,” Oppenheiser said,

“to offer the best of all worlds –

including balanced handling for the

track, acceleration for a drag strip,

and the comfort of a daily driver.”

The 2012 Camaro ZL1’s sur-

passes the advertised power of

the legendary 1969 Camaro ZL1’s

427 cubic-inch big block by more

than 150 horsepower– while meet-

ing modern emissions require-

ments. “The torque is going to make

the ZL1 a car you won’t want to get

out of,” said John Rydzewski, assis-

tant chief engineer for small block

engines. “Not only will the ZL1 have

more power and torque than the

competition, we’re making it avail-

able with an optional automatic

transmission, to appeal to a wider

group of sports car enthusiasts.”

The all-aluminum LSA su-

percharged V-8 is part of GM’s

legendary small-block engine family.

For a solid foundation, the engine’s

lower end uses six-bolt main bear-

ing caps that clamp and lock in the

forged steel crankshaft to the

deep-skirt block. Its 1.9L Roots-

style blower uses an efficient

four-lob rotor set and compact

intercooler to deliver boosted air

into the high-flow cylinder heads.

news

Camaro ZL1 delivers 580 hp and exclusive technologies

8 C a r X p r e s s

10

Re-incarnated 1932 Rolls Royce at Pebble BeachTwelve years of restoration work and she finally has her glory back

A unique 1932 Rolls-Royce 20/25 drophead coupé, painstakingly restored by Fiennes Restoration, is set to awe classic car lovers at a very exclusive show at Pebble Beach, CA. on Aug. 21, 2011 following a series of appearances that started at Villa d’Este Concorso d’Eleganza in Cernobbio, Italy, May 20 – 22, 2011 where it had its international debut.

Its presence in the Masters Class category at the RREC Concours and Rally in Rockingham Castle, UK on June 18 – 19, 2011 preceded its official UK launch at Salon Privé in Syon House, June 22 – 24, 2011.

Fiennes’s flawless restoration work on the Rolls-Royce 20/25 was done over a period of 12 years.

The Rolls-Royce 20/25 has a fascinating history and truly international background, with a UK chassis, Swiss coachwork, ownership by the King of Afghanistan’s brother, an “unwelcome bath” in Lake Geneva in 1939, being used as a run-around in Rome during Mussolini’s dictatorship, a stint

in Austria, a sojourn in England and final discovery in the USA, forlorn and forgotten, after 35 years of silent absence.

Brought back to the UK and to Fiennes Restoration, the car has been the subject

of complete restoration and returned to its former glory. “I had all but given up on my search,” said Richard Raynsford, whose relentless quest to find this very car, which at one stage belonged to his family, finally

came to an end by random chance when he spotted a photo of it, reduced to barn-find condition and in the States.

Will Fiennes, Fiennes Restoration managing director, and Richard Raynsford, the Rolls-Royce’s owner, took the car to Villa d’Este’s renowned Concorso d’Eleganza, where the 20/25 competed for the coveted “Coppa d’Oro Villa d’Este.”

Back in the UK, the car had its first official outing of 2011 at the flagship RREC event (Rockingham Castle), the world’s largest gathering of more than 1,000 Rolls-Royces and Bentley cars, before its official launch at exclusive luxury modern and classic supercar event, Salon Privé, participating in its Concours d’Elégance, “A Hundred Years of the Spirit of Ecstasy” category.

Pebble Beach Concours d’Elégance in August completes the Rolls-Royce 20/25’s world tour. Fiennes Restoration Ltd. is the oldest, UK-based specialist in the restoration, conservation and maintenance of pre-war Bentleys and Rolls-Royces.

The car was used as a run-around in Rome during Mussolini’s dictatorship, had a stint in Austria, a sojourn in England and final discovery in the USA, forlorn and forgotten, after 35 years of silent absence.

1 0 C a r X p r e s s

Burjuman Centre level 2 Dubai Outlet Mall Ground FloorTel: +971-4-35 25551, E-mail: [email protected]

12

Porsche Centre Abu Dhabi, a division of Ali & Sons Co. L.L.C., started 2011 on a high-note, delivering double-digit results during the first quarter with sales increasing by 15% compared to last year’s figures.

Wissam Khalil, Porsche Centre Abu Dhabi brand manager, said the figures are “proof of the strong position that Porsche Centre Abu Dhabi holds

in the region, extending the family of proud Porsche owners to 7,000 members, with a forecast of more to come.

“Achieving a 15% increase in sales for the first three months of 2011 is significant in the UAE’s highly competitive market, and is testament to the performance, technical finesse and allure that the brand represents.”

The remarkable figures in the first quarter of 2011 are the result of rigorous marketing and promotional initiatives. The launch of the new Cayenne, that embodies the Porsche’s sport-driving DNA combined with the luxury and performance of an SUV, contributed an impressive 65% to total sales. Other high performing models responsible for the strong numbers this year; Panamera made a 20% contribution, followed by a 15% input from the sales of popular sports models including the Porsche 911, Cayman and Boxster. The Al Ain showroom also contributed a strong 20% towards overall sales.

Emirates Motor Company (EMC), flagship company of Al Fahim Group, is the first Mercedes-Benz general distributor in the region to launch a five-year extended warranty on all Mercedes-Benz vehicles and Road Side Assistance Program as an additional standard feature on all new Mercedes-Benz vehicles purchased in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain, effective June 1, 2011 at no extra cost.

Kamal Rafih, EMC general manager said the move is part of the company’s commitment toward building a strong customer relationship. “We take it seriously and sincerely aim to exceed their expectations at all levels,” he said.

He said the company conducted a survey of its customers and reviewed feedback. “We returned with practical solutions that give them great savings and total peace of mind.”

Besides the new Extended Warranty Program, EMC launched the new ISP PLUS Coverage on the S and GL classes where all scheduled service work and related labor are covered for five years or 105,000 km (whichever comes first). In addition to the standard Mercedes-Benz ISP coverage, EMC will also cover brake pads, discs replacement and wiper blades replacement.

In April, the company launched the Integrated Service Package Plus (ISP+) on its most popular model, the S Class, and the spectacular SUV, the GL-Class (7-seater).

Mercedes-BenzAnother reason to love them more

Porsche Centre Abu Dhabi gets high 1Q sales

An Audi unlike any otherAudi has entered a new vehicle class with

the new Audi A1 which recently arrived in Dubai and the northern Emirates. The compact A1 condenses all of the virtues of the brand with the four rings – a progressive design, uncompromising quality and groundbreaking efficiency – within a space of less than four meters.

Audi celebrated the launch of the next big Audi with the Audi AreA1 from April 28th to May 4th this year at The Burj Steps between Burj Khalifa and The Dubai Mall, in front of The Dubai Fountain.

K. Rajaram, CEO of Al Nabooda Automo-biles, said, “The A1 is a modern city car espe-cially for the young generation. We thought it’s only fitting that the next big Audi is celebrated in style at Dubai’s tallest landmark, Burj Khalifa. We would like to thank Emaar for the opportunity and wish all visitors lots of fun with our new Audi A1.”

Its highly modern design integrates the A1 into the Audi family. The large single-frame grille, the distinctive roof arch and coupe-like C-pillars are among its defining style ele-ments. The interior of the A1 is surprisingly

spacious, bright and airy. The attention lav-ished on numerous details underscores the premium character of the A1 while innovative materials and modern colors emphasize the youthful character of the A1. Whether colored air vents, LED interior lights or seat covers in expressive colors – customization is the key. There are even a variety of paint finishes from which to choose for the roof arch.

The Audi A1 starts from only AED 89,900. In the Middle East it comes with especially developed super hot country settings, 4 years / 60.000 km service and 3 years warranty.


14

McLaren’sMP4-12C GT3

PERFORMANCE CAR

Ready to race


15

Plans are afoot to produce 20 road legal versions at over US$500K each.

The concept phase of the new MP4-12C GT3 race car began in the McLaren simulator in 2010. Like McLaren Formula 1 cars and the 12C road car, on which the 12C GT3 was based, the simulator has played a vital role in defining the GT3’s engineering requirements and technical specification. More recently, the 12C GT3 tested at FIA* certified circuits and produced race ready performance.

Following a test programme at Circuito de Navarra in Spain, Mark Vinnels, McLaren GT Pro-gramme Director said: “We defined the power, weight and downforce targets of the 12C GT3 using the simulator, and the set-up selected for the simulated GT3 car felt near-identical to the cars we tested for the first time in Navarra. The McLaren simulator is just one example of how we are preparing to deliver a GT3 car that is the most drive-able, reliable, and efficient car on the grid.”

The new MP4-12C GT3 underwent a rigorous development and testing programme over the 2011 race season before 20 cars were delivered to privateer teams for racing in 2012.

The GT3 version of the McLaren MP4-12C is powered by the 3.8-liter V8 twin turbo M838T engine (limited to 7500rpm), which is mated to a six-speed sequential transmission, with steering wheel mounted paddle shifters

The McLaren MP4-12C GT3 comes equipped with an LSD with a range of ramps and adjust-able pre-load, a hydraulically operated Sintered clutch, a wet sump and Driveshafts with tripod joints.

BeginningsFifteen years since a McLaren F1 GTR fa-

mously won the gruelling Le Mans 24 Hours race on its debut, McLaren has begun development work to turn the new MP4-12C into a limited volume of GT3 racing cars that will be available in time for 2012 GT3 championships.

With its revolutionary, carbon fibre MonoCell, the 12C is proving to be a natural platform on which to develop a race-winning car.

McLaren is making its way back into the GT sports car racing scene with a limited number

C a r X p r e s s 1 5

16

of GT3 racing cars based on the MP4-12C sports car. These models were designed and developed by McLaren and CRS Racing, and should make their first racing debut in the 2012 European FIA GT3 Series.

The 12C’s architecture and design was always aimed at high-performance and ease of maintenance - two key criteria for poten-tial customers. Combine that with the vast amount of racing experience in the com-pany’s automotive team, and CRS Racing’s specialist development experience, and the 12C GT3 should be an exciting proposition for the top teams planning to race in GT3 from 2012.

McLaren is confident that the MP4-12C’s revolutionary lightweight one-piece moulded carbon chassis, high levels of downforce and aerodynamic performance, and focus on form and function make it an obvious choice to bring back racing success to the McLaren name.

The last win McLaren had was in the McLaren F1 GTR when it won the Lemans Series 15 years ago. The MP4-12C GT3 will be the first McLaren car built for FIA GT series racing since the McLaren F1 GTR finished production in 1997.

Road legalManaging Director Antony Sheriff has

revealed that the company has plans to offer a road legal version of the GT3. It will be lim-ited to about 20 units and will be put on sale at a price higher than $500K.

A roadgoing McLaren is in the works, but the car will not get various models like Por-sche did with the 911, he said.

On May 16, 2011, McLaren has announced prices for the 20 MP4-12C GT3 units that will be offered for private teams for the 2012 racing season. The model will be offered for £310,000 excluding taxes (or about $495,000 at the current exchange rates).


17


18


19


20

exotic car

BMW Vision ConnectedDrive Extraordinary roadster


21The design and technology of this spectacular car are aimed at making the vehicle an integral part of a networked world.


22

BMW has pulled the wraps off of its latest concept vehicle, which is in part a research tool for the automaker as it looks towards the future of mobile networking. The BMW Vision ConnectedDrive Concept is a two-passenger roadster seeking to push new boundaries in the realm of automotive technology.

The topless concept borrows much of its design from the Vision EfficientDynamics concept that’s on the road to production, but this showcar focuses on three areas; comfort, safety and infotainment. Each category provides feedback and data to the driver by means of a light display spread throughout the vehicle.

Augmented realityIn the cabin, the driver will be able to

monitor a multitude of information thanks to a three-dimensional head-up display. The HUD incorporates augmented reality to display point-of-interest icons and road in-formation into the driver’s field of vision. The display is fully customizable, and the driver can fine-tune the amount of information and how it’s displayed in front of him or her. Interestingly enough, BMW has provided no information about what powers this concept – either in reality or merely conceptually.

The BMW Vision ConnectedDrive Concept is the automaker’s view of where automo-tive information technology is heading. By providing the driver with as much or as little information as he or she desires, the driver is able to make a closer connection with the vehicle. It may be merely a study at this point, but it’s a glimpse at a future where the driver is still in control... and that’s something we can stand behind.

A multitude of unique new developments in the fields of drive systems and intelligent networking of the driver, the vehicle and the environment was presented by BMW to the public at the Geneva Motor Show, March 3 – 13, 2011; all of these contributing to a steady, continuous increase in both vehicle efficiency and driving pleasure.

The leading position in the automobile world occupied by BMW in the development of innovative driver assistance systems and mobility services was furthered strength-ened at the 2011 Motor Show by the world premiere of an extraordinary concept vehi-cle: The BMW Vision ConnectedDrive study demonstrates current and future methods of mobile networking in a particularly fo-cused way. The design and technology of this spectacular roadster are aimed at making the vehicle an integral part of a networked


23


24

world. Comfort, safety and the infotainment experience in the vehicle can be precisely optimised by the innovative functionality, individually tailored to suit the requirements of both the driver and passenger. New tech-nologies and design concepts are employed to add even more facets to the unmistakable BMW driving pleasure.

DistinctiveBMW presents new aspects of its dis-

tinctive driving pleasure to the motoring public with the development of concepts for electromobility. In the framework of BMW EfficientDynamics, the purely electric drive has adopted a key role on the road to CO2-free mobility. For the first time, elec-

tromobility styled by BMW is on the verge of becoming available to everyone for day-to-day use.

BMW has also extended its lead in the field of conventionally-powered production vehicles, with the introduction of efficiency-raising technologies. At the 2011 Geneva Mo-tor Show, the BMW 320d EfficientDynamics Touring Edition was presented to the public for the first time. Its four-cylinder diesel engine develops a maximum output of 120 kW/163 bhp and yet consumes only an aver-age of 4.3 litres per 100 kilometres in the EU test cycle (CO2: 114 g/km). In the mid-range premium segment, the BMW 320d Efficient-Dynamics Touring Edition, together with the similarly configured sedan, provide by far the

best combination of driving pleasure and economy.

Furthermore, the Geneva Motor Show was also the setting for the world premiere of the new BMW X1 xDrive28i and thus for a new generation of 2.0-litre petrol engines. For the first time in a four-cylinder engine, the drive unit is fitted with BMW TwinPower Turbo Technology with a turbocharging system based upon the Twin Scroll principle together with High Precision Injection and the VALVETRONIC fully-variable valve control system. The result convincingly meets the objectives of BMW EfficientDynamics - more driving pleasure at significantly lower con-sumption and CO2 emissions.


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Rolls-Roycecelebrates centenary

luxury car


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Rolls-Royce Motor Cars is celebrating the centenary of the Spirit of Ecstasy in 2011 with an exclusive collection of bespoke Phantom models. Called the Spirit of Ecstasy Centenary Collection, one hundred cars will be delivered to customers bearing a suite of features inspired by the legendary flying lady, complemented by a range of exclusive exterior colours, wood veneers and leather

options. The Spirit of Ecstasy is the name of the

hood ornament on Rolls-Royce cars. It is in the form of a woman leaning forwards with her arms outstretched behind and above her. Billowing cloth runs from her arms to her back, resembling wings.

“These beautiful models follow the fin-est traditions of Rolls-Royce in their luxury, craftsmanship and attention to detail,” said Torsten Müller-Ötvös, CEO Rolls-Royce Mo-tor Cars. “They encapsulate the essence of the Spirit of Ecstasy legend, presenting own-ers with a range of exclusive bespoke options available only in this centenary year.”

Details

Collection cars start with the famous icon herself. Cast in silver, each Spirit of Ecstasy will feature a base complete with black-gold plated bezel bearing the com-memorative inscription Spirit of Ecstasy Centenary – 2011 , a legend repeated on the cover plate when the mascot is lowered. The design is finished with a set of six hallmarks, two of which have been designed specifically for Rolls-Royce.

A new badge has been developed to authenticate the Collection and establish its place in Rolls-Royce history. Located beneath the Spirit of Ecstasy, on the trunk lid as well as on front side panels, the badge reverses conventional design, with white enamel RR detail set on a black chrome background.

A trademark Rolls-Royce twin coachline is accentuated on Collection cars, thanks to a delicate hand-painted Spirit of Ecstasy insignia, the detail of which has been taken from an original line-drawing by Charles Robinson Sykes, the mascot’s creator. A fur-ther tribute comes in the glove box lid, which carries an original Sykes quotation embossed into the colour-matched leather lining: “A graceful little goddess, the Spirit of Ecstasy, who has selected road travel as her supreme delight and alighted on the prow of a Rolls-Royce motor car to revel in the freshness of the air and the musical sound of her flutter-ing draperies.” – Charles Sykes, 1911

Inside the cars, fine detailing abounds. Collection cars come with an analogue clock fitted in the fascia panel, the outer bezel of which is crafted from Britannia Silver, incor-porating the unique set of six hallmarks. The

Only 100 cars will be delivered to customers bearing a suite of features inspired by the legendary flying lady


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backlit face presents an inner ring of silver incorporating the centenary inscription.

Instrument dials complement the clock design, carrying further fine detailing. Satin spun metal dials, centered with polished RR monograms are further enriched with polished chaplets and black numerals. All are meticulously hand-crafted, examples of the attention to detail for which all Rolls-Royce hand-built models are renowned.

Further affirmation of the Collection’s place in history comes from the lid of the centre console. This reveals a discreet, solid Britannia Silver commemorative plaque en-graved with the inscription Spirit of Ecstasy - One of One Hundred.

Four exterior colour options are offered, all exclusive to Spirit of Ecstasy Centenary Collection cars. These start with Rhap-sody Black, a black metallic incorporating a delicate gold sparkle and Maiden Blue a deep blue metallic highlighted with a silver sparkle. Ethereal White Pearl comes with a special pearlescent finish while Wildflower completes the bespoke paint offering, presenting a rich blend of red and brown colour with a fine sparkle.

Each exterior colour can be ordered with a selection of sumptuous leather and interior contrast schemes while hand crafted band-ing of Britannia Silver will be delicately inset into the customer’s chosen veneer.

Owners will also receive a desk ornament

with their cars, a polished steel Spirit of Ec-stasy mounted on a piano black base. These will be presented with individual certificates of authenticity signed by Rolls-Royce Motor Cars CEO Torsten Müller-Ötvös.

HistoryThe Spirit of Ecstasy, also called “Emily”,

“Silver Lady” or “Flying Lady”, was designed by Charles Robinson Sykes and carries with it a story about a secret passion between John Walter Edward Douglas-Scott-Montagu, (second Lord Montagu of Beaulieu after 1905, a pioneer of the automobile movement, and editor of The Car Illustrated magazine from 1902) and his secret love and the model for the emblem, Eleanor Velasco Thornton.

Eleanor was John Walter’s secretary, and their love was to remain hidden, limited to their circle of friends, for more than a decade. The reason for the secrecy was Eleanor’s impoverished social and economic status, which was an obstacle to their love. John-Walter, succumbing to family pressures, married Lady Cecil Victoria Constance, but the secret love affair continued.

Eleanor died on Dec. 30, 1915, going down with the SS Persia, when the ship was torpedoed off Crete by a German submarine, whilst she accompanied Lord Montagu on his journey to India, four years after she had been immortalized by her bereaved lover.


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CONCEPT CAR


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TheCorvette Stingrayturns 50


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Over the past 100 years, Chevrolet has been responsible for some of the most sig-nificant and groundbreaking designs in auto-motive history. From its utilitarian yet stylish pick-up trucks to the cutting edge looks of each generation of Corvette, via cars like the BelAir which helped define the era they appeared in. The bowtie logo has adorned some of the most iconic shapes of motoring. Even some of Chevrolet’s designers, such as Harley Earl and Bill Mitchell, have gone on to become as legendary as some of the cars they penned.

The very first Chevrolet – the Classic Six of 1912 – was highly regarded for its elegance and sophistication and, a century later, the brand continues to turn heads, with cars like the Volt and Camaro, among others, celebrated for their innovation and appearance.

StingrayIn 1963, another Chevrolet star was born.

1963 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray“What an amazing car,” says Ed Welburn,

global vice president of design at General Motors. Stingray took the Corvette range to new heights. Based on a show car penned by GM design chief Bill Mitchell, the angular and svelte Stingray was more sophisticated and civilized than previous Corvettes, yet in ma-turing, it didn’t forget that its main purpose in life was to be exhilarating, both in how it looked and how it drove.

Distinctive features of the car – which continued to be built out of fiberglass – were the electrically-operated pop-up headlamps and, on the coupe, a split rear window that would go on to become its main motif.

“I’ve lectured on this car many times,” says Welburn. “Everything was new; in fact it was so new, they had to give it a new name, Stingray. Every Corvette since then has been influenced by it, even the current models.

In maturing, it didn’t forget that its main purpose in life was to be exhilarating.


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Stingray turns 50 The Corvette Stingray turns 50 The Corvette Stingray turns 50 The Corvette Stingray turns 50 The Corvette Stingray turns 50 The Corvette Stingray turns 50 The Corvette Stingray turns 50 The Corvette Stingray turns 50 The Corvette Stingray turns 50 The Corvette Stingray turns 50 The Corvette Stingray turns 50 The Corvette Stingray turns 50 The Corvette Stingray turns 50 The Corvette Stingray turns 50 The Corvette Stingray turns 50 The Corvette Stingray turns 50 The Corvette Stingray turns 50 The Corvette Stingray turns 50 The Corvette Stingray turns 50 The Corvette Stingray turns 50 The Corvette Stingray turns 50 The Corvette


The dual cockpit interior is still part of the Corvette and the Chevrolet interior design today.”

Futuristic

In 2009, Chevrolet delivered a futuris-tic vision of technology and design with the 50th anniversary Corvette Stingray Concept. A version of the model was first shown at the 2009 Chicago Auto Show and starred as “Sideswipe” in Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen. The Corvette Stingray Concept represented both the iconic legacy and an exciting future for Corvette.

The Corvette Stingray Concept was developed as an internal design challenge to combine classic Corvette cues with surpris-ingly high-tech features, modern materials, and a striking new appearance. The car is well-appointed with a clamshell hood, scis-sor-style doors, ergonomic seats, rear-view camera with night vision enhancement, and a high performance hybrid drive. Interactive touch controls allow the driver to customize the power and efficiency of his or her ride and share it with friends via the in-car cam-era system and advanced telemetrics.

Set to dazzle all who behold it, the Sting-ray takes the form of a sleek, vision concept dreamed up by the Corvette designers at GM. The design is influenced by the original Stingray race car, introduced in 1959, but also draws on Corvette heritage cues from other generations. It brings them together in a futuristic shape that seems to be equal parts racecar and space ship.

The Stingray Concept also starred for the first time in the Middle East at the 10th Dubai International Motor Show, which run from Dec. 16th to the 20th, 2009.


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SUV


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New Audi Q3 Versatile and urbane


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A few days ahead of its world premiere at the recent Shanghai Auto Show, German pre-mium car manufacturer Audi revealed the new Audi Q3 compact SUV. Audi’s latest addition to its model range sets standards in all aspects of engineering and design.

The Audi Q3 is designed as a versatile companion for everyday life with an urbane character. Its coupe-like styling is a one-of-a-kind among SUVs and symbolizes its sporty identity. Thanks to systematic lightweight de-sign, the basic version of the Audi Q3 weighs less than 1,500 kilograms. Its low drag coeffi-cient of just 0.32 also enhances fuel efficiency considerably.

The interior of Audi’s latest model is very roomy; its ergonomics and its workmanship with many possibilities for customization are exemplary. The luggage compartment offers 460 to 1,365 liters of capacity – ideal for sports and leisure. To supplement the extensive standard settings Audi will offer

numerous options straight from the luxury class, including the adaptive light technology, an enhanced parking assistant and an entire set of infotainment components.

The Audi Q3 will be available in the Middle East from the first half of 2012.

DebutThe Audi Q3 is an automobile by Audi AG of

Germany that debuted commercially this year. The five-door coupe crossover was designed as more of a lifestyle-sports car, rather than for the family-offroad market its larger Q5 & Q7 siblings aimed for.

The car combines a transverse engine layout with flexible steering and suspension offers. The Q3 will borrow many Golf Mk5, or possibly Golf Mk6, components, such as a Direct-Shift Gearbox (DSG) dual clutch trans-mission and a 147 kW (197 hp) 2.0 FSI turbo engine featured in the current Golf GTI. The car should also feature a 171 kW (229 hp) 3.0

turbo-diesel V6 & a 210 kW (282 hp) 3.6 FSI V6 for the flagship, the Q3S.

While the car should be available in both front-wheel drive (FWD), and quattro “on-demand” four-wheel drive variants, there will be no height-adjustable suspension, lockable differentials or low-range gearing. Instead, the car will feature larger wheels and a sports suspension.

The car has been approved due to the declining sales large SUVs are currently expe-riencing, and the public’s healthier appetite for smaller crossovers. The company is targeting niche markets to reach its ambitious sales targets, and the Q3 is part of these plans. The production name will undergo change from “Q3” to another name as an agreement with carmaker Infiniti stipulates. Various Audi con-cept cars have debuted with the name “Cross Coupe” and this name is a possibility for the production Q3.


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Its coupe-like styling is a one-of-a-kind among SUVs and symbolizes its sporty identity.


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car xpress october 2011

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