Range Rover

2014 Acura RLX will make its production debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show. Visually, the production RLX isn't all that different from the "concept" shown in April at the 2012 New York auto show. In fact, all that seems to have changed are the wheels and fascia. The once-controversial power plenum grille remains, but it is far more elegantly executed than the initial versions.

Dimensionally, the 2014 RLX is approximately the same length as the outgoing RL, but with a two-inch longer wheelbase and two-inch shorter front overhang. Both the track and vehicle width also increase by approximately two inches, which translate to more room inside. Rear-seat legroom is 38.8 inches and shoulder room is also said to be good.

The 2014 RLX uses a 310-horsepower, direct-injected V6 to power the front wheels through a six-speed automatic, and it will go on sale in the spring; the 370-hp RLX hybrid goes on sale later next year.

For the chassis, there are double wishbone front suspension, multi-link rear suspension, active dampers and electronic power steering with a variable gear ratio. Despite all this, total weight is a reasonable 3,933 pounds for the front-wheel-drive model.

On the outside, the 2014 Acura RLX is a midsize sedan. On the inside, it’s almost full-size. The rear seat is considerably more spacious than the cramped one on the RL. Acura says the RLX has up to three inches more rear leg room than the Audi A6, BMW 535i and Lexus GS350. That’s a significant advantage.



Press Release

Acura Debuts 2014 RLX Sedan at Los Angeles Auto Show
All-new flagship sedan showcases signature new Acura technologies; boasts class-leading fuel-efficiency, handling agility and rear-seat legroom

Acura took the wraps off its all-new 2014 RLX luxury-performance sedan – the most powerful, spacious, and technologically advanced Acura sedan, ever. In keeping with the Man-Machine Synergy direction of the Acura brand, the RLX utilizes an all-new direct-injection engine, lightweight body structure, and the first-ever application of Acura Precision All-Wheel Steer™ to deliver a new and dynamic driving experience unlike that of any other luxury performance sedans. The next-generation AcuraLink® cloud-based connected car system makes its debut on the new RLX, offering a broad range of convenience, entertainment and security features.

"The 2014 Acura RLX heralds the introduction of a number of new signature Acura technologies that provide the driver a feeling of connection to the product, to the road, and to the world from the very moment they enter the vehicle," said Jeff Conrad, vice president and general manager of Acura Sales. "The RLX embodies the Acura commitment to create vehicles with outstanding handling that truly respond to the will of the driver."

The 2014 Acura RLX is powered by an all-new 310-horsepower direct-injected SOHC 24-Valve i-VTEC® V-6 engine with Variable Cylinder Management, and is expected to earn best-in-class estimated EPA fuel economy ratings of 20/31/24 mpg1 (city/highway/combined). The new RLX delivers full-size interior space in a nimbler, mid-size luxury sedan package and boasts the best rear-seat legroom (38.8 inches), longest tandem seating distance (36.4 inches), and best front and rear shoulder room in the mid-luxury class.

Precision All-Wheel Steer™ (P-AWS) is the world's first technology to feature independent and continuous control of the left and right rear-wheel steering (toe) angles to achieve new levels of handling agility, high- and low-speed maneuverability, and confident handling control for a two-wheel-drive luxury sedan.

As previously announced, a version of RLX featuring Acura's new Sport Hybrid Super Handling All-Wheel Drive® (Sport Hybrid SH-AWD®) technology, producing 370 horsepower with expected fuel economy ratings of 30 city/30 highway/30 combined, will debut later in 2013.
The new RLX will confidently compete in the high-end luxury sedan market with an incredible array of leading-edge technologies – including the next-generation AcuraLink™ connectivity system with AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic™ featuring freeway traffic and all-new surface street conditions, the Lane Keeping Assist System and Forward Collision Warning safety systems, and new driver-assistive technologies such as Adaptive Cruise Control with Low-Speed Follow, Agile Handling Assist dynamic braking technology and Jewel Eye™ LED headlights.

The 2014 Acura RLX is slated to go on-sale at U.S. Acura dealers nationwide in the spring of 2013 and will be available in five grades – the well-equipped RLX, the RLX with Navigation, the feature-packed RLX with Technology package, the RLX with Krell Audio package, and the top-of-the-line RLX with Advance package. Pricing details will be announced closer to launch.

Exterior Design and Function
The RLX follows an "aero-fused" exterior design motif with its wide and athletic stance, sharp upswept bodylines, aerodynamic greenhouse, and distinctive new Jewel-Eye™ LED headlights offering improved down-the-road illumination. The RLX's sleek upper body and numerous other aerodynamic features result in aerodynamic efficiency to best-in-class levels.

Seven spoke 18x8J aluminum-alloy wheels and 245/45 R18 all-weather tires are standard, while Technology, Krell and Advance grades feature 19x8J wheels and 245/40 R19 tires. The RLX's alloy wheels also feature a noise-reducing design that lowers tire noise by 7 decibels across the audible frequency range.

Additional exterior features available on the RLX include an acoustic glass windshield and door glass, integrated power rear sunshade, front and rear parking sensors, heated and auto-dimming side mirrors, and rain-sensing windshield wipers.

Interior Design and Function
The RLX interior features premium, soft touch materials throughout, with the tasteful application of premium metal and wood-grain accents. A stitched leather instrument panel, center console and steering wheel, along with available Milano perforated leather seats, communicate a new level of craftsmanship and refined luxury appeal in Acura's top-of-the-line sedan.

Luxury form and function are smartly integrated in the RLX's new center console, featuring dual screens – an 8-inch Navigation screen and a 7-inch On-Demand Multi-Use Display™ touch screen – that provide easy and direct one-touch access to key functions, including audio, air conditioning, navigation and text-to-voice SMS text message function. The sliding, leather-trimmed armrest conceals a storage compartment with USB connectivity, 12-volt accessory power outlet and space to store a tablet device.

Additional interior comfort and convenience features include push-button start, power tilt and telescoping steering, power sunroof, tri-zone automatic climate control, and Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink®.

The standard 10-speaker ELS® audio system includes HD radio™, XM radio, Pandora® interface, USB connectivity, and an auxiliary jack. The RLX with Technology package is equipped with a 14-speaker Acura/ELS® Studio premium audio system. The Krell Audio and Advance grades receive an all-new Krell ultra-premium system that sets a new benchmark for high-fidelity sound in a luxury vehicle.

Chassis Technology
Whether on a serpentine mountain pass, congested city street, or cramped airport parking deck, and in all weather conditions, the RLX with Precision All-Wheel Steer™ (P-AWS™), is designed to deliver an unprecedented level of handling precision and control.

Working in concert with Vehicle Stability Assist® (VSA®) with Traction Control and Agile Handling Assist dynamic braking system, P-AWS™ provides enhanced vehicle stability, maneuverability, and control. The RLX's handling performance is further elevated by its new double-wishbone front and multi-link rear suspension system with Amplitude Reactive Dampers, and new high-output, belt-type electronic power steering.

All RLX models have 4-wheel disc brakes with high-friction pads and a 4-channel anti-lock braking system (ABS), along with new Hydraulic Brake Boost that improves brake pedal feel. New Electric Parking Brake with Automatic Brake Hold, and high-efficiency Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®) are additional firsts for Acura.

New Direct Injected VTEC® V-6 with VCM
The 2014 RLX is powered by an all-new 3.5-liter direct-injected SOHC i-VTEC® V-6 engine with Variable Cylinder Management. Rated at 310 horsepower and 272 lb.-ft. of torque, the engine delivers exceptional drivability, with more than 90-percent of its peak torque produced from 2000 rpm to 6600 rpm. Variable Cylinder Management™ with 3-cylinder and 6-cylinder operation works in concert with the VTEC valvetrain to deliver superb cruising efficiency. The engine is mounted to a lightweight and rigid aluminum front subframe using a vibration-canceling Active Control engine Mount (ACM) system.

The new engine is mated to a reengineered Sequential SportShift 6-speed automatic transmission with revised gearing, an intuitive selector and steering-wheel-mounted shift paddles. A driver-selectable Sport mode provides more aggressive shift points and more pronounced engine braking during deceleration, along with manual operation.

AcuraLink® Connectivity System
The RLX is equipped with the next-generation of the AcuraLink® connectivity system, delivering a bevy of new information, media, convenience, and security services via embedded two-way communications and web-enabled devices. AcuraLink® leverages the Aha™ by Harman cloud-based interface to provide users with thousands of customizable media and connectivity choices. Next-generation AcuraLink® also delivers an array of available security and convenience features, such as AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic™ featuring freeway traffic and all-new surface street traffic, airbag deployment notification, stolen vehicle tracking, remote locking and unlocking, security alarm notification and 24-hour personalized concierge services for restaurant reservations and more.

Advanced Safety, Visibility, and Driver Assistive Technology
The RLX offers a comprehensive list of leading-edge technologies, including Lane Departure Warning, Lane Keeping Assist system, Forward Collision Warning and Collision Mitigation Brake system safety technologies, Adaptive Cruise Control with Low Speed Follow driver assist system, and Blind Spot Information and Multi-Angle Rearview Camera with Dynamic Guidelines enhanced visibility systems.

Featuring Acura's next-generation Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ II (ACE™ II) body structure, the RLX is anticipated to earn top-level safety ratings, including a 5-star NCAP Overall Vehicle Score, and IIHS 'Top Safety Pick' rating as well as a GOOD rating in the new IIHS small overlap frontal crash test.

Additional details on key advances and technologies for the all-new 2014 RLX:
-Class leading interior space based on the RLX's longer wheelbase and efficient packaging. At 196.1 inches, the RLX is similar in length to the outgoing RL, but it has a two-inch longer wheelbase and is nearly two inches wider, placing the new RLX well above the norm in the mid-luxury class. The flagship RLX sedan has up to three inches more rear legroom than competing models, including the BMW 535i, Lexus GS350 and Audi A6.
-Extensive use of lightweight materials includes the application of high-strength steel to 55 percent of the body, and the intensive use of aluminum-for the front fenders, hood, steering hangar beam, front and rear bumper beams, front subframe, and front and rear door outer panels (mated to steel inner panels). The RLX weighs in at 3,933 pounds. Static bending and torsional body rigidity are up 52 percent and 46 percent, respectively.
-Jewel-Eye LED headlights (an Acura first) LED lamps enhance the RLX's modern and distinctive appearance while providing outstanding light distribution and improved down-the-road illumination.
-Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition™ offers a wide range of search options including local search functionality and AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic™ for both highways and surface streets.
-Agile Handling Assist (an Acura first) uses active braking to help the driver smoothly and easily trace the desired line through a curve with smaller steering inputs.
-Electric Parking Brake (an Acura first) provides one-touch parking brake activation.
-Automatic Brake Hold (an Acura first) maintains the vehicle's position when the driving or parking brake are released until the throttle is depressed.
-Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Low-Speed Follow (an Acura first), allows the RLX to independently maintain a set following distance in low-speed traffic situations, including stop and go traffic, and to initiate vehicle braking when necessary.
-Forward Collision Warning (FCW) uses a camera mounted in the upper portion of the windshield to detect vehicles ahead of the RLX and audibly and visually alert the driver when it determines a frontal collision with a detected vehicle is possible.
-Lane Departure Warning (LDW) uses the same windshield-mounted camera to detect lane markings on the road and alerts the driver if the vehicle is wandering from a detected lane.
-Front seatbelt e-pretensioners use electronic control to reduce belt tension under normal driving conditions, while also enabling automatic belt tensioning in hard cornering maneuvers or in the event of a collision.
-Multi-angle rearview camera with dynamic guidelines uses guidelines that reflect steering wheel inputs on the display to aid in backup maneuvers.
-Capless fueling (an Acura first) eliminates the fuel cap and improves ease of fueling.

2013 Jaguar F-Type Black Pack has been unveiled at the 2012 Los Angeles motor show, the big cat didn’t just introduce the 550 hp XFR-S, it also went down the customer personalization pathway, showcasing the personalization options for the new F-Type.

The exterior 'Black' pack is available with Firesand, Ultimate Black, Polaris White, Italian Racing Red, Rhodium Silver and Satellite Grey colors and, depending on the variant, adds a gloss black finish to items such as the front grille surround, the side power vents and the roll hoops.

The interior Black pack, meanwhile, adds a flat-bottomed steering wheel and gloss black trim to the vents, switches and instruments.

The Black pack can be had on either the 3.0-liter supercharged V6 model, or the 5.0-liter supercharged V8 version. Specific additional "Black" tweaks are available based on which derivative you select. Specifically, a gloss-black rear valence is a V6-only modification.



Press Release

LA AUTO SHOW: Global and North American Jaguar debuts

Two significant new Jaguars have made their debuts at the Los Angeles Auto Show.

The XFR-S saloon made its global debut at the Show. Unveiled by Adrian Hallmark, Global Brand Director, Jaguar Cars, the XFR-S is the fastest, most powerful and agile sports saloon Jaguar has ever built.

Developed by Jaguar Land Rover's specialist ETO division, the XFR-S features bespoke powertrain, chassis and body enhancements that enable it to push the performance boundaries. With 550PS from its 5.0-litre supercharged V8 engine driving through an eight-speed Quickshift transmission, the XFR-S is capable of reaching 60mph in just 4.4-seconds before going on to an electronically limited top speed of 186mph.

On unveiling the car Adrian Hallmark commented:"Sporting character is evident in all Jaguar saloons. In the XFR-S that character has been amplified, the result being a truly engaging car with a combination of technical innovation, assertive design and staggering performance that will satisfy the most demanding of drivers."

Making its North American debut at the show was the F-TYPE - Jaguar's all-new two-seater sports car. Seen for the first time with special-order Firesand paintwork and equipped with optional 'Design' and both exterior and interior 'black' packs, this individual F-TYPE - a V6 S model - demonstrates the range of personalisation options that are available for customers.

Ian Callum, Director of Design, Jaguar, commented:"For me, good automotive design should be about creating excitement, so being here in LA to witness the positive reaction to both the XFR-S and F-TYPE - two highly distinctive performance cars - is very satisfying."

Fiat has unveiled the 2013 500C Abarth ,which will debut in Los Angeles at the 2012 LA Motor Show.

The 500c Abarth comes with an aggressive body kit all around, an Abarth-specific exhaust system with chromed tips and lightweight 16-inch rims mounted on Pirelli tires.  Like the 500 that it is based on, the convertible is highly customizable and buyers can mix and match a wide selection of exterior and soft top colors.

Under the hood is the same 1.4-liter MultiAir turbocharged inline-four, good for 160 horsepower and up to 170 pound-feet of torque (assuming you pressed the Sport button on the dash – something you really, really ought to do). A five-speed manual transmission is the only 'box available. And don't you dare complain about that.

Inside the 500c Abarth you'll find one-piece sport seats with thick bolsters and openings for racing harnesses. There's a 160-mph speedometer along with a boost gauge featuring a shift light. Providing the music (if for some reason you get bored with the magical exhaust note) is a 368-watt sound system tuned by Beats by Dr. Dre.

Sales start in the first quarter of 2013 – prices will be announced later.



Press Release

New 2013 Fiat 500c Abarth: The Ultimate High-performance Italian Small Car Adds Open-air Driving Excitement

•  New Fiat 500 Cabrio (500c) Abarth combines turbocharged, track-capable performance with a clever open-top design for a high-performance four-passenger cabrio with the most interior space, rear-seat legroom and shoulder room among key competitors

•  Turbocharged and twin-intercooled 1.4-liter MultiAir Turbo engine provides the Fiat 500c Abarth with 160 horsepower and 170 lb.-ft. of torque, and is mated to a track-proven five-speed manual transmission

•  Abarth-tuned performance hardware delivers world-class ride and track-ready durability with a lowered ride height, beefier suspension, larger brakes and wider tires

•  Fiat 500c Abarth builds on the Abarth brand's tradition of exterior and interior design enhancements added only for performance gain

•  Fiat 500c Abarth includes a segment-exclusive full-day Abarth Driving Experience and arrives to FIAT Studios in the first-quarter of 2013

The Fiat 500 Abarth brought world-class performance and precision, purposeful and aggressive styling, high power-to-weight ratio and limited-production volume to North American driving enthusiasts in 2012. Adding even more excitement to Karl Abarth's line of "small but wicked" cars, the new 2013 Fiat 500 Cabrio (500c) Abarth harks back to his open-air track cars of the 1960s, while delivering the most visceral experience of any modern Cinquecento to date.

"The new Fiat 500c Abarth delivers the wicked attitude and track-proven capabilities of the hatchback model, now with the rush of open-air Italian performance," said Tim Kuniskis, Head of FIAT Brand for North America - Chrysler Group LLC. "And with the push of a button our new turbocharged cabrio can unleash that added sense of freedom, while offering one of the most respected soundtracks of all-time, the rasp from its signature Abarth-tuned dual exhausts."

Open-air freedom with an intelligent power cloth top and rigid structural design
With the Fiat 500 Abarth's high-performance DNA intact, the new 2013 Fiat 500c Abarth is engineered with the same track-proven attributes that have made the hatchback model a success on European and North American roadways and racetracks, but now brings even more fresh air and the unmistakable Abarth-tuned exhaust note into the cabin.

With just the push of a button, the Fiat 500c Abarth's power-operated cloth top retracts up to the rear spoiler during speeds up to a best-in-class 60 mph (a midway point can be chosen by pressing the button anytime in between). Press the roof button again, and the roof will neatly fold all the way open and tuck neatly behind the rear head restraints (up to 50 mph). The power operated cloth top is also intelligently designed.

For access to the Fiat 500c Abarth's trunk, premium "parallelogram" liftgate hinges conveniently position the liftgate out of the way, while the power-operated cloth top automatically retracts back to the rear-spoiler position to avoid any obstruction.

In addition to its cleverly designed multi-position power-retractable cloth top, the Fiat 500c Abarth's fully stamped body-side silhouette retains the iconic Cinquecento form while delivering added structural strength and 70 percent less header shake than key competitors. In addition, its longer windshield and minimized header design maximize rear-seated passengers' outward visibility, while minimizing cabin turbulence.

"Abarth treatment" and tradition continue to deliver extraordinary results
In the late 1950s, Karl Abarth believed that race cars with brilliant performance could be derived from small, lightweight, everyday driving cars - including the original Cinquecento (500). And his tradition of track-ready small cars continues today by utilizing the high-performance 2013 Fiat 500 Abarth as a base point for the new cloth-top Fiat 500c Abarth.

Staying faithful to the performance principles that made the Abarth name a success, the 2013 Fiat 500c Abarth continues the brand's motorsport traditions, including:

•  Everyday performance car: Track-ready capability, high horsepower-per-liter engine, combined with the quality, efficiency and refinement expected in a world-class small car
•  Competitive: Benchmark levels of performance, track-proven reliability and durability
•  Aggressive: Purposeful and functional performance design, Abarth-tuned powertrain control module (PCM) and performance-tuned exhaust with menacing sound
•  Attainable: State-of-the-art powertrain and chassis technology once limited to premium-priced performance cars
•  Racing heritage: More than 60 years of performance and competition tuning, including active international series races today

1.4-liter MultiAir Turbo engine with 117 horsepower per liter
Like the Fiat 500 Abarth, the new 2013 Fiat 500c Abarth features the track-proven 1.4-liter MultiAir Turbo engine for 160 horsepower, up to 170 ft.-lb. of torque and 0-to-60 mph performance in the low 7 second range.

Compared with the Fiat 500c's naturally aspirated 1.4-liter MultiAir engine, the boost to 160 horsepower on the Fiat 500c Abarth is largely due to its single turbocharger that operates off engine exhaust and utilizes energy that would normally be wasted through the tailpipe. The turbocharger spins up to 230,000 rpm to convert exhaust heat and pressure to a rotational force that drives a compressor. The compressor draws cool air and pumps it into the intake manifold at increased pressure (maximum 18 psi / 1.24 bar) that results in a greater amount of air in the cylinder and, hence, more power.

The 1.4-liter MultiAir Turbo's induction system includes two intercoolers located behind the driver- and passenger-side air inlets of the Abarth-styled front fascia. The intercoolers are designed to remove heat in the air charge that the turbocharger generates while compressing incoming air (higher air density for more power). Reducing heat provides a cooler, denser air charge that helps increase the potential for more power.

Other high-performance engine component upgrades include an Abarth-designed fresh-air intake system with high-flow air filter and smooth-flowing plumbing for maximum power. And to make sure the engine is operating with minimal exhaust gas restriction, an Abarth-designed concentric "double-tip" dual-exhaust system delivers a high-performance look with menacing Abarth-tuned sound.

Developed for high-output applications, the Fiat 500c Abarth is equipped with the track-proven C510 five-speed manual transmission. Proven on the European 500 Abarth models, this transmission features a 3.35 final-drive ratio for quick acceleration and faster top speed, while maintaining fuel efficiency.

Designed to handle the increased torque loads, the Fiat 500c Abarth's C510 transmission includes an intermediate shaft with equal-length half shafts to mitigate torque steer. Compared with the Fiat 500c, the 500c Abarth features 23 percent larger half shafts (28.1 mm diameter vs. 22.8 mm diameter in the Fiat 500c) for increased strength and to reduce torsional stress in the driveline during performance driving on the road or track. To handle the increased power and torque of the 1.4-liter MultiAir Turbo engine, larger constant velocity (CV) joints with 53 percent greater torsional strength (2,600 N•m vs. 1,700 N•m in the Fiat 500) deliver added durability and refinement.

Track-ready performance hardware
For more than fun under the sun, the new 2013 Fiat 500c Abarth is designed, engineered and tested to deliver the high-performance driving and enduring capabilities needed for track use.

Like the hatchback, the new 2013 Fiat 500c Abarth features an enhanced front- and rear-suspension design to deliver the precision handling, steering and refinement needed for high-performance driving. Compared to the Fiat 500c, the Fiat 500c Abarth features a unique MacPherson suspension design with 33 percent stiffer front spring rates and 0.6-inch (15 mm) lower ride height (compared to the Fiat 500c) for improved handling and minimal body roll. Abarth-designed cast-iron front lower control arms provide improved lateral stiffness, while an increase in negative camber to -1.5 degrees delivers improved grip and steering precision. In addition, dual-valve frequency selective damping (FSD) KONI twin-tube struts deliver road control and maximum grip, while actively filtering out high-frequency suspension inputs from uneven road surfaces to adjust for comfort and smoothness.

The beefier rear-suspension design of the Fiat 500c Abarth takes the Fiat 500c model's (already 300 percent stiffer than the European Fiat 500) twist-beam design further, with a torsionally rigid rear axle designed with strengthened coil-spring supports for greater durability. A 0.87-inch (22 mm) Abarth-specific solid rear stabilizer bar increases cornering grip. For improved handling, minimal body roll and ride-height control (when fully loaded), the new Fiat 500c Abarth features 12 percent stiffer rear springs with 0.6-inch (15 mm) lower ride.

For 10 percent quicker steering to enhance responsiveness, maneuverability and high-performance feel, the Fiat 500c Abarth features a 15.1:1 (up from the Fiat 500c's 16.3:1) steering-gear ratio. Compared to the Fiat 500c, the 500c Abarth features a uniquely tuned electronic power steering (EPS) calibration for increased steering response and feedback. In addition, the Fiat 500c Abarth features a road crown and cross wind compensation algorithm, which automatically compensates for temporary situations where there is a constant push of the car to one side or another, assisting the driver against driving during such conditions.

The Fiat 500c Abarth features a high-performance brake system with semi-metallic brake linings at all four corners, and larger 11.1-inch ventilated rotors for greater stopping power (up from 10.1-inch). Both front and rear brake calipers are lacquered in Rosso (red) paint for an athletic look. An Abarth-tuned electronic stability control system (ESC) features a three-mode calibration to maximize the Fiat 500c Abarth's handling capabilities on and off the track. When ESC is selected from "On" to "Partial Off" or "Full Off" on the instrument panel, the 500c Abarth's innovative torque transfer control (TTC) system maximizes throttle performance during on-throttle cornering.

Standard on the Fiat 500c Abarth are 16 x 6.5-inch cast-aluminum wheels with 195/45 R16 Pirelli Cinturato P7 tires that deliver all-season traction and low-noise characteristics. For even more performance, larger and wider 17 x 7-inch forged-aluminum wheels keep this Cinquecento lightweight at each corner and feature high-performance three-season Pirelli P-Zero Nero tires with a 205/40 R17 size for a wider stance and reduced profile for improved handling.

Exterior and interior design enhancements added only for performance gain
The aggressive styling of the Fiat 500c Abarth embodies the Abarth brand tradition in full - purposeful and intentional details all designed to improve the car's performance, while enhancing the clean and simple design language of the Cinquecento.

To improve aerodynamics and the necessary engine compartment space for the 1.4-liter MultiAir Turbo engine, the Fiat 500c Abarth's features a more pronounced front fascia. For additional air intake, the signature "Abarth" shield floats on a finned surface and a larger intake below consists of three inlets with broader openings than the Fiat 500c. For a more aggressive look, twin "nostrils" are precisely positioned on the front fascia to maximize airflow in and out of the two engine intercoolers (both intercoolers are visible through the "nostril" inlets).

Abarth-designed side skirts give the Fiat 500c Abarth an athletic profile, while 16-inch or optional 17-inch lightweight forged-aluminum wheels fill the flared wheel arches and provide ventilation for the performance brake system.

From the rear, an Abarth-designed cloth-top-mounted spoiler extends the roofline and improves the vehicle's aerodynamic behavior by creating additional downforce. Below, the two-piece Abarth-styled rear fascia accentuates the road-holding stance and optimizes airflow output with its rear diffuser. In addition large concentric "double-tip" exhausts provide an exclusive Abarth-tuned sound and look.

The interior design theme of the 2013 Fiat 500c Abarth is an artistic blend of clean lines and functional performance appointments. An Abarth-designed steering wheel features a thick rim, perforated leather and flat bottom to provide the look, feel and increased roominess desired during at-the-limit driving. A large concentric instrument cluster with 160-mph speedometer, tachometer and trip computer sits behind the steering wheel, and features a leather-wrapped cluster brow wrapped in Nero (black) leather with Rosso (red) accent stitching. To the left, an analog turbo-boost gauge with integrated LED shift light in the center that illuminates to an instant before redline to optimize gear changes. Below the instrument panel, Abarth-designed aluminum pedal covers feature Nero rubber trim for a decidedly racing look, while the Nero leather shift knob with Rosso accent stitching provides a precise feel of the shifter.

Unique Abarth-styled front performance seats feature a one-piece design with large side bolsters, a racing-harness pass through, accent stitching around the perimeter and integrated side-thorax air bags. To highlight that this cabrio has the most interior space, rear-seat legroom and shoulder room among key competitors – the rear passengers' upper seatbacks are raised and bolstered for added back support.

New Beats by Dr. Dre audio system adds to Fiat 500c Abarth's innovative technologies
New for 2013, the segment-exclusive-and first-time-ever-in-a-cabrio integration of Beats by Dr. Dre audio system offers passengers of the Fiat 500c Abarth a high-definition music experience the way the artist intended. The Beats Audio studio-quality sound system includes six premium speakers, an 8-inch dual-voice coil (DVC) subwoofer with trunk-mounted enclosure and eight-channel amplifier with Beats Audio digital sound processing (DSP) algorithm.

Abarth-tuned "Sport" mode
The Fiat 500c Abarth features a standard-equipped "Sport" mode calibration for more engaging driving. Should the driver select Sport mode on the instrument panel, the Abarth-tuned PCM unleashes the full power of the 1.4-liter MultiAir Turbo (torque increases from 150 ft.-lb. to 170 ft.-lb.) with linear throttle response and a more performance-weighted steering feel. When Sport mode is not engaged, the Cabrio returns to "Normal" mode and limits the torque in first and second gears to enhance fuel efficiency and minimize CO2 emissions.

Abarth shift light with turbo-boost gauge
An additional benefit of the Abarth-tuned PCM is the driver's shift light with turbo-boost gauge mounted left of the instrument cluster. Should the driver choose to switch to "Sport" mode, the Fiat 500c Abarth's LED-illuminated shift light flashes as the engine speed approaches the redline - giving the immediate feedback needed on the track or during high-performance driving.

BLUE&ME Handsfree Communication technology
BLUE&ME Handsfree Communication technology is an in-vehicle, voice-activated communication system that allows the Fiat 500c Abarth driver to operate a Bluetooth-compatible phone while keeping his or her hands on the wheel and eyes on the road. Using a series of voice commands, the driver can place phone calls and access the phone's address book. BLUE&ME Handsfree Communication technology supports most mobile phones with Bluetooth technology.

Innovative TomTom navigation
With the available TomTom navigation with BLUE&ME Handsfree Communication technology, the Fiat 500c Abarth integrates an innovative 4.3-inch (10.9 cm) TomTom portable navigation device that docks on top of the instrument panel. With its large touchscreen, simple map displays with available real-time traffic, weather and points of interest, TomTom Navigation with BLUE&ME Handsfree Communication technology is intuitive for the driver to use. And with its direct integration into the Fiat 500 Abarth's interior system, the driver is able to use steering-wheel-mounted controls to make operation even easier.

More than 35 safety and security features including Abarth-tuned electronic stability control (ESC)
State-of-the-art connectivity and more than 35 safety and security features keep passengers of the 2013 Fiat 500c Abarth connected, comfortable and secure.

The Fiat 500c Abarth features seven standard air bags, including driver and front-passenger advanced multistage air bags, driver's knee air bag, full-length side-curtain air bags and standard seat-mounted side pelvic-thorax air bags, all offering enhanced protection to all occupants in the event of a collision.

In addition, the Fiat 500c Abarth features a unique three-mode electronic stability control (ESC) system standard for improved braking performance in wet or panic conditions. The Abarth-tuned ESC system features a three-mode calibration including "ESC On" to "ESC Partial Off" and enthusiast-desired "ESC Full Off."

Abarth Driving Experience for new owners
Included with each 2013 Fiat 500c Abarth is the opportunity for new owners to attend a segment-exclusive driving experience at no additional charge. The Abarth Driving Experience is an entire day of full-throttle training, guided by professional instructors from the Richard Petty Driving Experience to ensure fun and top-level instruction in a safe and structured setting.

At the 2010 Detroit Motor Show GMC unveiled the GMC Granite. Less than a year later, at the LA Auto Show, GMC unveiled the Granite CPU.

While the initial design of the Granite was surprising, the new concept redefines the phrase Urban Utility Vehicle, which is what the small crossover was called at the time. It was conceived as a new type of vehicle, that could stretch people's ideas of what a GMC can be. In fact, if any of the two models of the Granite concept entered production, it would become the smallest GMC ever to be built, which is exactly the opposite of the image GMC had until recently.

Rather than a traditional flip-down liftgate, the CPU features two hinged doors that open on the sides and thanks to a slide-out bedliner, there’s plenty more cargo room than one might expect. Flipping out of the bed is a steel rack that can be used for everything from a makeshift surfboard or ladder holder, to a rack to hold up a bicycle. One of the designers on hand at the truck’s unveiling at GM’s North Hollywood Advanced Design Center even commented that it could be used to create a space to hold 8×4-foot sheets of plywood diagonally, with room for tools underneath.

If you need even more room to haul lumber or a surfboard, a "pack rack" roll bar pops up and out. Both useful and attractive, it's no surprise GM's kept it hidden for so long.

Toyota has releases the new Toyota RAV4 EV at the Los Angeles auto show. the Toyota RAV4 has the body of the RAV4 SUV with the powertrain supplied by Tesla. The exact specs of the Toyota RAV4 have not been revealed yet, but the manufacturer says it's currently testing it with a lithium metal oxide battery with an output rated in the mid-30kwh range. The company says about the Toyota RAV4 that its battery size, final output and price list haven not been decided yet. However, they do mention that the electric Toyota RAV4 will come on the market in 2012.

Exact shipping estimates and such haven’t been announced, but there’s clearly a bigger market for the EV this time than when the first generation hit the streets in 1997. Consumers are aware of the technology, gas is dramatically more expensive, and the nerd stigma was replaced by an eco-hip look. The infrastructure still isn’t where it needs to be for mass adaption but Toyota should have no problem moving more than the 1,484 that it did back in the ’90s.

The RAV4 EV features several distinct exterior styling changes, and aside from new EV badging and a custom “mutually exclusive” exterior paint shade, distinct items include a new front bumper, grille, fog lamps and head lamps. Inside, there’s custom seat trim, multimedia dash displays, push-button shifter and dashboard meters in terms of new items.

Toyota and Tesla are keeping extremely quiet on the exact specs of the car, but it's reasonable to expect the RAV4 EV will feature a version of the motor found in the Tesla Model S electric saloon. It should also feature one, or a choice of, the Model S' batteries, which provide either 160, 230 or 300 miles of driving range.




Press Release

TOYOTA DEBUTS 100-MILE RANGE, RAV4 EV DEMONSTRATION VEHICLE AT LOS ANGELES AUTO SHOW

Toyota/Tesla Collaboration To Build, Demonstrate And Evaluate 35 Vehicles: Fully Engineered Second-Generation RAV4 EV Slated For 2012 On-Sale Date

LOS ANGELES, November 17, 2010 -- Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc. (TMS) debuted today the second-generation Toyota RAV4 EV at a news conference at the Los Angeles Auto Show. A total of 35 vehicles will be built for a demonstration and evaluation program through 2011, aiming at market arrival of a fully-engineered vehicle in 2012. The fully-engineered vehicle will have a target range of 100 miles in actual road driving patterns, in a wide range of climates and conditions.

"When we decided to work together on the RAV4 EV, President Akio Toyoda wanted to adopt a new development model that incorporated Tesla's streamlined, quick-action approach," said Jim Lentz, president and chief operating officer, TMS. "The result was a hybrid – a new decision and approval process and a development style that our engineers refer to as "fast and flexible."

Led by the Toyota Motor Engineering and Manufacturing North America (TEMA) Technical Center in Michigan, the new development model helped reduce development time without compromising product quality. The team has accomplished this by approaching the project as they would a typical mid-cycle "major-minor" product change. Specifically, midway through a generation, the team began with a fully engineered current-generation RAV4, to which was added a major powertrain option, along with minor feature and cosmetic changes.

Tesla was responsible for building and supplying the battery, as well as other related parts, that met specific Toyota engineering specifications in performance, quality and durability. Toyota was responsible for development and manufacturing leadership and the seamless integration of the powertrain.

"From the beginning, the customer experience has been the focus," said Lentz. "In other words, how do we deliver an unconventional product to mainstream customers that is compelling and affordable and that offers an acceptable level of daily convenience."

A large part of the team's focus on the customer experience targeted driveability. In this case, the end goal is a vehicle with driveability characteristics as close to the conventional RAV4 as possible.

For example, the demonstration vehicle weighs approximately 220 pounds more than the current RAV4 V6 yet it will accelerate from zero to sixty nearly as quickly.

This added weight factor required significant retuning of major components and a prioritized focus on weight distribution. Not only were suspension and steering modified significantly, major components needed to be relocated to better balance the increased mass of the battery pack.

The demonstration vehicle Toyota is currently testing is powered by a lithium metal oxide battery with useable output rated in the mid-30 kwh range. However, many decisions regarding both the product, as well as the business model, have not been finalized. Battery size and final output ratings, as well as pricing and volume projections of the vehicle Toyota plans to bring to market in 2012, have not been decided.

As for a final assembly location, Toyota is considering many options and combinations. The basic vehicle will continue to be built at its Canadian production facility in Woodstock, Ontario. Tesla will build the battery and related parts and components at its new facility in Palo Alto, Calif. The method and installation location of the Tesla components into the vehicle is being discussed.

The RAV4 EV received several distinct exterior styling changes including a new front bumper, grille, fog lamps and head lamps. New EV badging and the custom "mutually exclusive" paint color, completed the transformation. The interior received custom seat trim, multimedia dash displays, push-button shifter and dashboard meters. The RAV4 platform brings a 73-cubic-foot cargo area with rear seats folded down – no cargo space was lost in the conversion to an electric powertrain.
In 1997, Toyota brought to market the first-generation RAV4 EV in response to the California zero emission vehicle (ZEV) mandate and was the first manufacturer to meet the mandate's Memo of Agreement on volume sales. Powered by a nickel-metal hydride battery pack, the vehicle had a range of between 80-110 miles on a single charge. From model year 1998 to model year 2003, only 1,484 vehicles were sold or leased in the U.S. 746 first-generation RAV4 EVs are still on the road (www.toyotarav4ev.com).

"Price and convenience proved to be critical success factors and they remain so today," said Lentz. "But much has changed in the last few years. Most importantly, the growing level of awareness that sustainable mobility will come at a cost that must be shared by the automakers, government and the consumer."

Toyota's approach to sustainable mobility focuses on the world's future reliance on mobility systems tailored to specific regions or markets, rather than individual models or technologies. It acknowledges that no one technology will be the "winner" and that a mobility system in Los Angeles will probably look very different from one in Dallas or New York or London or Shanghai.
Toyota's comprehensive technology strategy is a portfolio approach that includes a long-term commitment to hydrogen fuel cells, plug-in hybrids and battery electrics all driven by the further proliferation of conventional gas-electric hybrids, like Prius as its core technology.

Toyota has announced that coinciding with the arrival of the RAV4 EV in 2012 it will launch, in key global markets, the Prius PHV (plug-in hybrid) and a small EV commuter vehicle. It will also launch, in key global markets, its first commercialized hydrogen fuel cell vehicle in calendar year 2015, or sooner. Finally, by the end of 2012, Toyota will add seven all new (not next-generation) hybrid models to its portfolio.

TOYOTA RAV4 EV PERFORMANCE/SPECS

Exterior:

• Unique front and rear styling
• LED Foglamps
• 18" Alloy wheels
• Special pearl white paint with aqua base – "mutually exclusive"

Interior:

• Smart key system with push button start
• Combination synthetic leather and fabric seating surfaces
• Touch screen DVD Navigation system
• Cargo volume equal to 2010 RAV4

Mechanical:

• Powerful electric motor with Lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery pack
• Zero emission vehicle (ZEV)
• Class-leading driving range, acceleration, and top speed
• Real world driving range of approximately 100 miles