Range Rover

Subaru Forester S-Edition concept is previewed at Sydney Motor Show, Australia and hint to debut early next year. The Subaru Forester S-Edition is powered by a 2.5 liter turbo engine that develops 193 kW and 347 Nm of torque. The Subaru Forester S-Edition is based on the XT model, but has 24 kW and 27 Nm more.

Setting it apart from the regular Forester variants, the S-Edition gets exclusive styling accents, including the 17-inch STI alloy wheels that once propped up the previous-generation Subaru Liberty 'tuned by STI'.

Inside, new to the kit list are drilled alloy pedals, new Alcantara seat trim bearing S-Edition logos as well as luminescent instruments with a centre design unique to the model.




Press Release

FORESTER BOOSTS PROFILE IN WORLDWIDE DEBUT

An exciting Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive Subaru Forester concept with some strong clues pointing to a new variant next year has been unveiled at the Australian International Motor Show in Sydney.

The Forester S-Edition concept, making its worldwide debut in Sydney, builds on the turbocharged following of the existing Forester XT.

Forester S-Edition's turbocharged 2.5 litre 193 Kilowatt engine is 24 kW more powerful than the XT and produces 347 Newtonmetres of torque, up 27 Nm.

Other significant additions include:

• Paddleshift five-speed automatic gearbox
• Revised sports suspension
• Variable Torque Distribution (VTD) All-Wheel Drive
• Exclusive styling accents
• STI 17-inch high lustre alloy wheels
• Alcantara seat trim with S-Edition logos
• Drilled alloy pedals
• Luminescent instruments with centre design unique to the model
• Forester S-Edition badging

Nick Senior, Managing Director, Subaru Australia, said: "We're delighted and honoured that Fuji Heavy Industries (FHI) have chosen Sydney for the worldwide unveil of this Forester concept.

"It points towards an exciting development in our Forester range early next year.

"Forester is firmly established as Australia's best selling compact sports utility vehicle, with the most recent addition to the range being the diesel variants that are proving a sales winner for our All-Wheel Drive brand.

"There's no denying Forester's appeal to Australians in both urban and rural environments, so we think this concept will only add to the huge interest," added Mr Senior.

Today's unveil follows FHI's recent announcement of its first all-new new engine in 21 years, which will debut on normally aspirated Foresters in Australia in early 2011.

The third-generation four cylinder horizontally opposed Boxer engine will launch as a 2.5 litre in Australia.

It features a longer stroke, compact combustion chamber and lighter moving parts.

Forester remains Australia's best-selling compact sports utility vehicle year-to-date, with recently launched diesel variants drawing even more customers to the multi-award-winning model.

Since going on the market in June, diesel variants have represented 29 per cent of Forester sales.

Along with every vehicle in the Subaru range, Forester has an independent five-star rating for occupant safety from the respected Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP) and is protected by DataDot security.

At the eightieth edition of the Geneva International Motor show (4-14 March 2010), Italdesign Giugiaro is introducing Emas, a family of low environmental impact cars that is set to revolutionise traditional segmentation in the car market.


The design, created with the Malaysian manufacturer PROTON is based on a plug-in hybrid drive system designed with Lotus Engineering and was developed with the aim of optimising the available on-board space and car access ergonomics.


"We have created a family of models in different configurations but all offering the passenger room of a medium-category car while maintaining the exterior dimensions of a compact mini. The architecture has been designed in such a way as to allow us to outfit an infinite number of variants without compromising the car's great comfort and extensive interior space" explained Giorgetto Giugiaro, Chairman of Italdesign Giugiaro.


With 25 years in the automotive sector PROTON has produced 15 car models to date that have sold more than 3 million units throughout the world and is now ready to expand its horizons with a range of revolutionary cars that meet international standards.

The name, Emas, meaning "gold" in Malay, is the acronym for Eco Mobility Advanced Solutions.

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* Ford S-MAX and Galaxy models get a fresh new look for 2010
* New models to debut at 2010 Brussels Motor Show
* S-MAX and Galaxy debut Ford's new high-efficiency EcoBoost 4-cylinder advanced turbocharged petrol direct injection engines
* 2.0-litre Duratorq TDCi diesel engine with Stage V emission rating and additional new 163PS version
* Ford PowerShift transmission enters range: standard with 2.0-litre EcoBoost, optional with 2.0-litre Duratorq TDCi
* Improved craftsmanship and enhanced technologies
* New Galaxy and S-MAX will be built alongside Mondeo at Ford's Genk plant in Belgium

COLOGNE, December 15, 2009 – Ford of Europe will unveil new versions of its top-selling S-MAX and Galaxy at the 2010 Brussels Show on January 13. With fresh designs, they feature new interior materials and features, a range of more efficient powertrains and a host of driver focused technologies aimed at improving safety and comfort.

The 2010 S-MAX and Galaxy models kick off an exciting year for new product introductions from Ford of Europe.

"We've given both models a fresh new look and more premium appeal, but it is beneath the skin that the major changes have been made," said John Fleming, Executive Vice President and Chairman & CEO, Ford of Europe. "S-MAX and Galaxy are the first European Ford models to benefit from our global EcoBoost family of direct-injection, turbocharged, petrol engines delivering more power and performance from a lower displacement powerplant, yet with impressive fuel economy and low CO2 emissions. And that is just the start of the 2010 S-MAX and Galaxy story."

These are the first cars to be available with Ford's all-new, high efficiency, 2.0-litre EcoBoost petrol engine. Producing 203PS it joins a significantly improved 2.0-litre Duratorq TDCi diesel, with 140PS, plus a new 163PS variant. Additionally, the Ford PowerShift double wet-clutch transmission system is available for the first time on Ford's large car range; it will be standard equipment with the EcoBoost petrol engine and optional with both Duratorq diesels.

A range of innovative new safety and convenience features debut on versions of the new S-MAX and Galaxy, including a Blind Spot Information System.



More Distinctive Outside
From launch in 2006 the S-MAX quickly established itself as a car without peers – a sporty, high quality and well-equipped crossover that provides the benefits of a people mover, but without sacrificing style or driving enjoyment.

The new model maintains this tradition and has been thoughtfully updated with significant detail changes to the exterior including a strongly sculptured bonnet and all-new front fascia, emphasised by a gloss black lower front trapezoidal grille. This gives S-MAX a distinctive presence on the road, and a new lower front bumper comes with distinctive LED daytime running lights on high series (Titanium and Titanium X Sport) models.

The rear of new S-MAX has been re-designed with a more dynamically profiled tailgate and new LED tail lights that extend deep into the rear side flanks. Boosting its premium appeal is a horizontal satin chrome bar which runs between the LED tail lights and is embossed with the S-MAX logo.

The new Galaxy also features a re-designed frontal section. A new, more sculptured, bonnet combines with new front fascia design – incorporating a bolder lower trapezoidal grille with inserts featuring subtle chrome bars – and new-look fog lights. Titanium and Titanium X models are differentiated further with chrome bars in the upper grille as well.

The roof incorporates new bolder integrated silver rails, while at the rear, distinctive new LED lights and a body-coloured lower fascia are standard equipment.



More Luxurious Inside
Carefully balanced new colour and material choices deliver a luxurious and dynamic feel. For both vehicles, the Ford FoldFlatSystem comes as standard for the second and third row of seats.

S-MAX high series models get a new multifunctional overhead console with generous stowage, sunglasses holder and child-watch mirror, and a new one-piece panorama roof equipped with power sun blinds. For the first time high series S-MAX models, and all models fitted with the panorama roof, get a new LED interior lighting system.

Loading through the rear tailgate is also made easier thanks to a new courtesy light, fitted into the inside panel on the liftgate, that illuminates when opened.



Power and Economy: EcoBoost SCTi, Duratorq TDCi and PowerShift
Ford's new S-MAX and Galaxy are the first vehicles to offer an all-new 2.0-litre Ford EcoBoost SCTi engine, which heralds a new era in Ford's petrol engine development. Featuring lightweight all-aluminium construction, the latest-generation high-pressure direct injection system, low-inertia turbocharging and twin independent variable cam timing, the 2.0-litre EcoBoost SCTi has an advanced combustion system which brings new levels of performance and fuel efficiency to petrol engines in this power range.

The 2.0-litre EcoBoost SCTi engine has a maximum output of 203PS at 5,500 rpm, combined with maximum torque of 300Nm, which is delivered across a broad 1,750-4,500 rpm range. With this new powertrain, the S-MAX achieves 0-62mph in 8.5 seconds (8.8 seconds for the Galaxy) and a top speed of 137mph (135mph for the Galaxy.)

Yet even with this responsive performance, fuel economy and CO2 emissions are significantly improved. Compared with the previous 161PS 2.3-litre automatic powertrain, CO2 is reduced by 19 per cent to 189g/km, even though the new 2.0-litre SCTi engine has over 25 per cent more power. This translates into a combined fuel economy of just 34.8mpg* and an extra urban figure of 44.1 mpg*.

At the same time, Ford's diesel offering for the new S-MAX and Galaxy has been significantly improved. The upgraded 2.0-litre Ford Duratorq TDCi engine family complies with Stage V emission regulations and is also available in three power levels – 115, 140 and 163PS – for the first time.

Engineered to deliver refined performance and low cost of ownership, these new Duratorq TDCi engines also deliver impressive combined fuel economy and CO2 performance. With a consumption of 49.5mpg* and an average CO2 emission of 152g/km, the new S-MAX and Galaxy, with six-speed manual transmission, prove that it is possible to combine driving fun and compelling performance with high efficiency.

The efficient and smooth-changing Ford PowerShift double wet-clutch transmission is a perfect match for both the new petrol direct injection and common rail diesel engines. It is standard with the new EcoBoost SCTi and available as an option with the 140 and 163PS versions of the 2.0-litre Duratorq TDCi.



New Features Further Enhance Safety and Comfort
From the outset the new S-MAX and Galaxy were designed and developed to offer customers a premium travelling experience and, to achieve this, an already compelling range of features in the previous models was updated and broadened for even greater safety and comfort.

Jörg Beyer, Ford of Europe's Vehicle Line Director for Large and Luxury Vehicles said: "The sheer number of Ford milestones we have delivered with the new S-MAX and Galaxy, in terms of vehicle design, powertrain technology and features, is big enough to make you think they are all-new vehicles. Our European Ford flagships deserve this treatment – and we are convinced that our customers will appreciate it."

The new S-MAX and Galaxy are Ford of Europe's first vehicles to feature the new Blind Spot Information System. This radar-based technology warns drivers of vehicles in their blind spot area. Also, the new Adjustable Speed Limiter Device (ASLD) is designed to help drivers set, and then not exceed, specific speed limits unintentionally – another first for Ford of Europe.

High series versions of the new S-MAX feature extensive applications of Light Emitting Diode technology, with LED daytime running lights as standard and LED illumination inside. All versions fitted with the panorama roof also benefit.

High series versions of both the S-MAX and Galaxy are also equipped with powerful courtesy lights located on the lower inside corners of the tailgate to illuminate the load area and all versions of both S-MAX and Galaxy come with LED tail lights as standard.

The comfort of passengers in both vehicles also motivated further refinements to the climate control system, which now features a new ventilated temperature and humidity sensor mounted in the steering column shroud for more sensitive control of the cabin air.

Additional trademark technologies already available on other Ford models are now being made available on S-MAX and Galaxy for the first time. These include the Ford Keyless System and the award-winning Ford EasyFuel capless refuelling system.



Sophisticated, Flexible Manufacturing
As with previous models, the new S-MAX and Galaxy share the same assembly line with the Mondeo at Ford of Europe's Genk manufacturing facility in Belgium.

A highly sophisticated, flexible and lean manufacturing process allows Ford to adjust the sequence and production quantity of different vehicles within its large and luxury car range, ensuring that it can respond very quickly to changes in customer demand.



Pioneering New Technology
"S-MAX and Galaxy were the first Ford vehicles to include elements of our 'kinetic design' styling theme," added John Fleming, "More importantly, they began to change the way that many people thought about the Ford brand.

"As they sit alongside Mondeo at the top of the Ford range in Europe, it is essential that we use these models again as pioneers for the introduction of new and innovative technologies that will characterise Ford's ambitious product launch calendar for 2010," said Mr Fleming.

Further details of the new Ford S-MAX and Galaxy models will be released closer to launch in early 2010.

*Note: Fuel economy figures quoted are based on the European Fuel Economy Directive EU 80/1268/EEC and will differ from fuel economy drive cycle results in other regions of the world



Source:Ford

Before the production version debuts at the Geneva Motor Show this March, Hennessey has released a few renderings, along with more shots from inside the shop and a basic spec sheet, including performance figures and few technical details. The rear-drive, two-seater should tip the scales at 2,395 pounds, with a twin-turbo V8 mounted amidships and dolling out 1,000 horsepower at 6,600 rpm and 950 pound-feet of torque at 4,800 rpm.


As reported previously, power will be sent through a six-speed manual gearbox with forward progressed scrubbed off by Brembo brakes sized 15 inches in front and 14 inches in the rear. And the performance stats are nothing short of unbelievable. 0-60 mph will be dispatched in 2.2 seconds. 0-100 mph in 4.9 seconds and the 200 mph mark will be had in 14.5 seconds before maxing out at a claimed 262 mph. Judging by the newly released pics, the Venom GT is nearly complete and we expect to see the production version before it's official unveiling in Switzerland.


After providing us an exclusive glimpse inside the Hennessey Performance workshop, the Texas-based tuner has let more details slip on the development of the Venom GT -- a Lotus Elise-based supercar packing Corvette ZR1 firepower.


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Castriota has since left StileBertone and moved back to New York to pursue other endeavors. In addition to tackling the fashion and industrial design world, he's working on a new line of footwear that's expected to be revealed sometime in 2010. While a new set of kicks would be the perfect compliment to the machined aluminum throttle on the angular, LS9-powered coupe, we wouldn't be surprised to see Castriota tackling another automotive project in the future given his penchant for both style and speed.




more detail. ...

The California-based design studio and upstart automaker created the GTX as an American answer to the ultra-exclusive sports cars hailing from Europe. Housed within the steel structure and carbon fiber body lies an 8.4-liter V10 putting 650 hp (at 6,100 rpm) to the rear wheels through a six-speed manual gearbox.


After speculation, spy shots and renderings, the 2010 Devon GTX finally made it's debut on the 18th hole of Pebble Beach, with the hope of ushering in a new era of American supercar dominance.


When the GTX goes on sale early next year, the coupe will be available in two flavors – a standard version and a more track-focused variant – each equipped with a fully independent suspension (a real-time damping and ride-height adjustment system will be available in late 2010), obscured by 18x10-inch (front) and 19x13-inch (rear) wheels (19s and 20s are an available upgrade), wrapped in Z-rated Michelin Pilot Sport 2 rubber. Six piston brakes clamp onto 380mm discs in front, while four piston calipers grapple with 355mm rotors in the rear.


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PRESS RELEASE

A MODERN CLASSIC IN THE MAKING:

ALL-NEW 2010 DEVON GTX BLENDS BREAKTHROUGH STYLING WITH TRACK-PROVEN PERFORMANCE TO CREATE AMERICA'S NEXT GREAT SUPERCAR

August 15, 2009 (Pebble Beach, CA) - Conceived by a visionary industrial artist, brought to life by some of the world's leading automotive engineers and designers, and proven on some of the most demanding race tracks in America, the all-new 2010 Devon GTX stands ready to stake claim as the next great American supercar.

The 2010 Devon GTX was introduced today on the famed judging stand at the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance. The limited edition supercar is the first product from Los Angeles-based industrial design house Devon Motorworks (devonmotorworks.com). It will go on sale in the first quarter of 2010.

"We are so proud to utilize the hallowed Concours stand as the venue to premiere the first offering from our studio," said Devon Motorworks founder and CEO Scott Devon. "Each year this event serves as a living homage to the great automobiles of our past, many of which served as our inspiration for the Devon GTX. By being mindful of classic design, and blending our own view of modern transportation, it's our sincere hope that we will earn a permanent spot in the landscape of automotive history."

The Devon GTX is – on one hand – a race-inspired performance car, offering a 650-horsepower engine and a complimentary transmission and induction/exhaust system that will make it the most powerful naturally aspirated production powertrain system on the market today. On the other hand, the vehicle's muscular shape represents a new expression of modern industrial design, blending both classic and futuristic cues to warn of the awesome power that exists within its shape.

"We set out to design a vehicle that was quintessentially American, both in its shape and in its performance," Devon said. "Standing still, the Devon GTX tells a story of power, handling and beauty. It's classical, yet futuristic design promises an incredible experience. Once under power, the GTX lives up to its promise every heart-pounding second you're behind the wheel."

The design was led by Devon and noted automotive designer Daniel Paulin. Their approach to the vehicle was to boldly blend power, tactility and aesthetics into one singular form.

The vehicle's aircraft-quality carbon fiber body sits atop large lattice-structure center-lock wheels. The interior design reflects the company's progressive design philosophy and features carbon-fiber-reinforced racing seats, dual-grained leather surfacing throughout the cockpit and tasteful chrome appointments.
Refinement, quality and uniqueness are conveyed in the car's "up and forward" articulating doors, distinctive body two-tone wheel surrounds, minimal front/rear overhangs, and dual center rear exit chrome exhaust ports.

Beneath the skin of the Devon GTX is an 8.4-liter (510 cubic inches) V-10 engine that produces 650 horsepower (484.7 kW) at 6100 rpm. The V-10 engine is mated with a track-proven six-speed manual transmission. .

While the Devon GTX has yet to hit an American road, it has made its mark on two of America's most demanding road courses. In validation testing earlier this year, the vehicle set production car lap records at both Willow Springs Raceway and Mazda Raceway at Laguna Seca.
"It was not a specific goal to set track records at that stage of validation, but the car outperformed even our aggressive goals," said Devon Motorworks validation and testing leader Justin Bell, a former 24 Hours of Le Mans champion. "We are looking forward to additional testing, where I'm certain the GTX will eclipse any time we've set to date."

Devon, Paulin and Bell are just part of an international team of performance and design veterans that make up the Devon Motorworks team.

Former Ford executive engineer Andy Benedict leads the product development team, while manufacturing and assembly is headed by Clive Hawkins, founder of ARIA Group. Aerodynamic testing is supervised by Dr. Joseph Katz of San Diego State University while marketing is led by automotive veteran Jerry Deeney. They are supported by a hand-picked team of experts that will design, engineer, manufacturer and present vehicles on a coach-built basis to a select and discerning customer base. "We have assembled an international team of highly qualified experts who have set out on an uncommon task. But with an American "can-do" attitude, our goal of creating an American supercar has been realized", said Devon.

Devon Motorworks will produce 36 cars per year at its manufacturing facility in southern California. On sale beginning in the first quarter of 2010, the cars will be sold for $500,000. An optional Racing Package will be available for $25,000. The vehicles will be sold and serviced directly through Devon Motorworks. Interested customers are encouraged to visit devonmotorworks.com/about/preorder to learn more about ordering the first Devon GTX.

"Each of our customers will have individual needs that we will cater to," Devon said. "Our philosophy is to blend their tastes with our exacting standards and in the spirit of bespoke craftsmanship, create a car that is both identifiably a Devon GTX yet singular to our customers' specifications. We want to make sure we have a direct relationship with our customers."

Devon Motorworks is an industrial design company based in southern California. All of its design products have a common purpose of providing sculptural power with recognizable beauty. Devon Motorworks' design language is classical, yet futuristic, with exquisite shapes in the modern mold. For more information, go to devonmotorworks.com.


NEW DEVON GTX BRINGS REFINED FURY TO THE ULTRA-PERFORMANCE CATEGORY

• 8.4L, 510 Cubic Inch V-10 Delivers 650 Horsepower
• Optimized Induction / Exhaust Systems

The all-new 2010 Devon GTX blends athletic strength with uncompromising refinement thanks to what is perhaps the most powerful naturally aspirated production car powertrain system in the industry.

The GTX is equipped with an 8.4-liter (510 cubic inches) V-10 engine that produces 650 horsepower (484.7 kW) at 6100 rpm. The V-10 engine is mated with a track-proven six-speed manual transmission.

The end result is a propulsion system that rivals – and in most cases surpasses – the most powerful offerings in the world. For example:

The Devon GTX holds the unofficial track record time of 1:26:00 at California's Willow Springs raceway, which was set during validation testing in the summer of 2009; and In July of 2009, the Devon development team took the GTX to Laguna Seca with the intention of setting a new track record, and did so with a time of 1:35.075.

8.4L V-10 Engine

The 8.4L naturally aspirated V-10 engine is a proven two-valves-per-cylinder ultra high-performance powerplant carrying state-of-the art components and refinements. These include:

• A deep-skirted aluminum engine block with boring to ensure the large displacement of 8.4 liters;
• Strengthened bulkheads and large-sized water jackets to ensure optimal cooling;
• Pressed-in iron cylinder liners and cross-bolted main bearing caps for strength and durability;
• The engine breathes through cylinder heads equipped with Computer Numerically Controlled (CNC)-shaped combustion chambers, larger valves and Variable Valve Timing (VVT). VVT electronically adjusts when the exhaust valves are open and closed according to engine speed and load, allowing the engine to "breathe" cleaner and more efficiently;
• The air-fuel mixture in the cylinders is ignited by platinum-tip spark plugs fired by new individual plug coils mounted on the cylinder-head covers;
• Within the cylinders, pistons are equipped with larger-diameter floating pins with bronze bushings for high-load capability. Forged powder-metal connecting rods are secured with aircraft-quality fasteners for increased fatigue strength; and,
• Engine lubrication is managed by a large oil pump and a swinging oil pickup adapted from competition engines, to improve oil pressure in high-rpm and hard-cornering conditions.

Induction and Exhaust System

The air induction box receives combustion air via snorkel tubes from the super coupe's low-mounted center air intake in the front portion of the vehicle. The induction box provides minimal inlet restriction at peak airflow – a key enabler the engine's exceptional power.

The dual exhaust system is initiated with lightweight 5-into-1 super-tuned long tube headers leading into 2.5-inch diameter pipes that help enable low back pressure and high flow. The system is made of stainless steel, which leads to chrome, 3.75-inch beveled (concave) tips exiting the rear center portion of the vehicle.

Reflecting the sensory craftsmanship that has gone into the GTX, the exhaust note has been specifically tuned to audibly convey the vehicle's capability and overall sophistication.

Six-Speed Manual Transmission

The transmission on the Devon GTX incorporates a host of applications to ensure effective transfer of the 8.4-liter engine's exceptional power and torque while delivering high-performance, fun-to-drive shifting characteristics.
The end result: is short, crisp shift throws; smooth gear synchronization, and overall improved shift feel with little or no vibration.

The transmission boasts wider gears for increased torque-handling capability; a six-gear synchronizer system for exceptional shift feel and reduced efforts; double-cone reverse gear synchronizer for eased "R" selection; strengthened housing for minimal "flex" and improved shifting; and a dual mass flywheel with twin-disc clutch.

Shifter Mounting

A single-point mounting system for the shifter assembly is attached directly to the body structure providing an extremely solid, stiff, and "tunable" unit. The shifter links directly to the transmission via a short rail.

The solid mounting and short linkage results in a package that can be optimally tuned for feel via isolation bushings in the shifter assembly – in turn, positive feel is achieved with little or no vibration.


TRACK-PROVEN CHASSIS SYSTEMS AND TECHNOLOGIES PROVE BEAUTY IS MORE THAN SKIN-DEEP ON THE 2010 DEVON GTX

The new Devon GTX supercar incorporates a series of high-performance chassis refinements tuned on some of the America's most renowned tracks, including Willow Springs Raceway and Laguna Seca.

As a result, the GTX is equipped with chassis dynamics applications and technologies that clearly define the new offering as a world-class, ultra-high-performance American supercar. These include:

• A track-tuned, competition-proven suspension system with specific bushings, springs and stabilizer bars;
• High-performance steering gear;
• Large 380-mm StopTech brakes -- including six-piston, aluminum calipers in the front – that enable world-class stopping distance and pure braking performance;
• Limited slip differential;
• Mass optimized 18/19-inch or 19/20-inch lattice structured forged center-lock wheels;
• Performance compound Michelin® Pilot® Sport Cup tires;
• Available (post launch) continuously variable damping suspension system offering two levels of active shock actuation – Tour and Performance. The system will be the first applied on a production vehicle developed by Active Shock Inc. – a noted military supplier of technologically advanced damping systems;
• Available (post launch), hydraulically driven adjustable ride height with two settings – Tour (street) or Performance (track). At start of production, ride height can be manually adjusted at the spring seats; and,
• An articulating front splitter (available post launch) that extends outward approximately 80-mm for enhanced downforce for optimal track performance.

Suspension System

The independent front and rear suspensions on the 2010 Devon GTX carry aluminum components for optimized un-sprung mass, ensuring agile handling and optimal tuning for boulevard and track performance. The following provides details on each:


Front:

• Cast-aluminum unequal-length upper and lower "A" arms;
• High rate coil springs;
• Gas-charged two-way adjustable competition monotube shock absorbers; and,
• A high-rate, direct-acting solid 27-mm diameter stabilizer bar.

Rear:

• Cast-aluminum unequal-length upper and lower "A" arms;
• Cast-aluminum toe-control links;
• High rate coil springs;
• Gas-charged two-way adjustable competition monotube shock absorbers ; and,
• A high-rate, solid 27-mm diameter stabilizer bar.

Limited Slip Differential

The rear-drive only GTX is equipped with a frame-mounted speed-sensing limited slip differential which mechanically manages wheel torque on all surfaces for improved vehicle performance during handling maneuvers.
The GTX is equipped with the manual six-speed transmission and carries a final drive ratio of 3.07.
Continuously Variable Damping System

A continuously variable damping system will be available on the GTX following the start of production. Enhancements in the technology's algorithms – combined with extensive track testing and validation – ensures the car is kept more controlled in all situations; on or off the track.
The system uses electronic control of damping forces in a continuously variable real-time damping system to provide exceptional responsiveness, greatly increased driver control and increased tire contact with the road, regardless of road surface.

Articulating Front Splitter & Ride Height Adjustment

In order to achieve optimal aerodynamics and ride/handling characteristics in all driving scenarios, the new offering from Devon Motorworks is equipped with an articulating splitter (available post vehicle launch) and hydraulically driven ride height adjustment (when equipped with optional continuous damping system-- also available following vehicle launch).

The articulating front splitter – an uncommon application in the worldwide automotive industry – travels approximately 80-mm forward to produce enhanced downforce for optimal track performance. It is hydraulically driven fore and aft.
Ride height adjustment – again, an uncommon application – operates similarly to the articulating splitter and drives the vehicles' rocker clearance via damper adjustment approximately 60-mm up or down.

When equipped with ride height adjustment, the Devon GTX is outfitted with dual-rate springs. In the extended ride height mode (Tour mode, or high setting), the springs are tuned to be softer for more jounce and rebound, ensuring a civilized ride.

In the lower setting (Performance mode, or low setting), the springs are competition-rate stiff, delivering enhanced driver feedback and governed pitch and roll characteristics.

Brakes

The brake system on the new Devon GTX is engineered to deliver world-class performance, appearance and durability without compromise. The technology has proven itself by winning professional sports car races and championships, yet also provides benefits that can be experienced and appreciated every day.

The brake system is designed to provide shorter stopping distances, better brake modulation, firmer pedal feel and less brake fade than other high-performance luxury cars, resulting in powerful, confidence-inspiring performance.

With six pistons in each front caliper and four in each rear, the brake system is custom-tailored to the uncompromising requirements of the GTX. The opposed-piston brake calipers are first forged, then weight-optimized by fully machining all exterior surfaces.

The two-piece rotor design reduces weight by one-third compared to a one-piece brake rotor of the same dimensions. The patented, directional AeroRotor vane design induces up to 80-percent more cooling airflow than the rotors used as original equipment on many high-performance luxury vehicles. This reduces maximum and average operating temperatures, improving pad and rotor life.
The brake pad material was specially selected to combine the good manners required of a true high-end luxury offering in daily driving with high performance driving. The standard brake pads provide low noise levels and much less dust than typical of many high-performance luxury vehicles. At the same time, they have the high temperature capability to withstand race track lapping with low susceptibility to accelerated wear or judder that may afflict other cars.

Steering

Steering feedback to the driver is performance tuned through a premium rack and pinion steering gear.

The steering system incorporates outstanding torsional stiffness with less operating friction. The result is steering precision of the highest order, with near-perfect linear response and smooth, predictable transitions.
Wheels and Tires

For sure-footed, enhanced handling, the Devon GTX is equipped with purpose designed and built Devon Motorworks forged aluminum alloy wheels with center lock configuration. Wheel sizes are 18- by 10-inches in the front; 19- by 13-inches in the rear. Larger wheels are optional and measure 19- by 10-inches in front; 20- by 13-inches in the rear.
The lattice structure wheels incorporate a geometric design which not only enable views to the large brakes (static or in motion), but enable weight optimization – a key to reducing un-sprung mass.
Electric Park Brake

The new Devon GTX is equipped with an electric park brake – simply touching a surface area in the center console actuates the system. As a result, the floor-mounted park brake (or hand brake) - and related mechanisms - is eliminated.


NEW DEVON GTX SUPERCAR DEFINED BY BLEND OF AESTHETICS, PROPORTIONS, TACTILITY & TECHNOLOGIES

• Sophisticated, Artfully Designed Carbon Fiber Exterior Makes Category-Transcending Statement
• Tactile Interior Melds Driver with Machine
• Advanced, Carbon Fiber Superstructure

From its carbon fiber superstructure, to its sweeping architectural surface, the all-new 2010 Devon GTX offers bold design, efficient tactility, and meaningful technologies that make a statement unlike any other supercar.

Constructed of aircraft-quality carbon fiber from stem to stern, the GTX instantly communicates its ultra-performance capability through aggressive, compact proportions and large (up to 20-inch) lattice-structure center-lock wheels. In all, the exterior design navigates between the past and science fiction, subtly blending muscle, curves, exquisite shapes and dynamic graphics to create a classical, yet futuristic, statement that's ready to stand the test of time.

Inside, carbon fiber-reinforced racing seats, dual-grained leather surfacing throughout, and tasteful chrome appointments communicate a Miesian, "less is more" design philosophy. A neo-retro gear lever – topped by a white gear knob – melds driver with machine.

The new Devon GTX is equipped with a host of sensory technologies worthy of its supercar status. These include:

• A single-piece carbon fiber superstructure, one of the most comprehensive applications of its kind in the global auto industry;
• Advanced, sensory touch switch applications on the exterior (door access) and interior (windows, engine start, electronic park brake);
• Specifically-tuned McIntosh audio system, a recognized high-end offering in the global automotive industry;
• Bi-functional, single element high-intensity discharge (HID) headlamps and LED tail lamps; and,
• A high-definition LCD cluster display that digitally presents primary vehicle information in an analog format.

Vehicle Structure

At the structural core, the GTX is built upon a framework that is as advanced as any in the global automotive industry.

Overlaying its steel structure is a glove-fit, single-piece molded superstructure made of carbon fiber. Construction of the superstructure requires a complex mold – essentially the size of the vehicle – in which all datum and attachment points are positioned within literally fractions of a millimeter.

Once the superstructure is in place, all body panel attachment points are inherently accurate for uncommonly consistent builds. The superstructure – due to the use of carbon fiber – is also extremely lightweight, strong and stiff, ensuring outstanding crash performance, noise / vibration tuning, and incredibly accurate chassis tuning.

Exterior

While overall shape of the new Devon GTX carries traditional "muscle car" dimensions with a long dash-to-axle and short front and rear offsets, it's executed in the context of sophistication and athletic grace.

Seemingly honed from a single billet, the GTX's flowing exterior skin is formed of carbon fiber, which enables precise molding – rather than traditional stamping – of exterior fenders, panels, and closures.

Large (18 / 19-inch or 19 / 20-inch combinations) 12-spoke aluminum forged monoblock lattice structured wheels lead the eye to large, ultra-performance calipers (carrying the Devon insignia) and rotors, leaving no doubt about the supercars's performance competency.

The wheels carry a machined or polished finish and painted inner-spoke surfacing leading to the Devon insignia defining the center hub. The GTX is also equipped with center-mounted locking hubs, a lug-free design more commonly seen on race cars.

A wheelbase of 98.8-inches – combined with a flush wheel-to-body relationship defined by distinctive, offset-flush, tone-shaded wheel surrounds – ensures well-grounded appeal and presence as well as an agile look with more muscular front fenders and rear haunches.

The front "face" of the vehicle is absent of a traditional grille, resulting in a clean, aero-sloped front section defined by a center-positioned billet that runs uninterrupted to the center of the hood. Ample air for combustion and brake cooling is achieved through large intakes positioned in the lower forward corners. The intakes carry large chrome trapezoid-shaped inlets (approximately 3-inches wide) that lead to channeling for optimal combustion air intake and engine cooling.

A fixed-glass center roof element distinguishes the Devon GTX from all others in its exclusive class. The glass element ensures overhead natural light is always a part of the interior environment.

Three-inch wide trapezoidal chrome dual exhaust tips match the intake inlets in the front, are side-by-side positioned, and pass through the center portion of the rear fascia, further communicating the ultra-performance capability of the new Devon offering.

Posted exterior rear-view mirrors have been aero-optimized – along with the rest of the exterior – by a dedicated team led by Dr. Joe Katz of San Diego State University (SDSU). The team's efforts led to the incorporation of a three-piece belly pan constructed of carbon fiber. In addition to providing enhanced under-car surface appeal and aerodynamics, the belly pan carries revolutionary "vortex generators" for improved downforce – a key enabler to the vehicle's exceptional agility and balance.

Interior

The interior of the new Devon GTX has been designed with the driving enthusiast top of mind – all features, surfaces and dimensions have been created to ensure a second-to-none performance experience.

A smaller diameter, thick-rimmed, leather-wrapped steering wheel ensures a performance grip and optimal feel. Carbon-fiber reinforced structured seats – carrying a racing shell design and integrated headrests – incorporate six-point racing harness seat belts (optional; five point standard) – are chrome trimmed, outfitted with stiff performance durometer seat and bolsters, and skinned with the softest real-leather hide available.

Dual-grain leather surfacing ensures a dynamically tactile environment. Seat and center console areas carry softer leather with smoother animal grain; the upper IP, pillars, headliner and door surfaces incorporate a coarser, three-dimensional tactility.

All audio, HVAC, and cluster instrumentation is communicated via digital analog graphics on high-definition displays. All instrumentation incorporates bluish fluorescent illumination.

The speedometer, tachometer, fuel, temperature and other mechanical related instrumentation is displayed in the cluster under a fixed hood. Audio and HVAC is displayed in the integrated centerstack.

The traditional neo-retro white ball-head stick-shift is constructed of stiff polished aluminum for optimal feel and connectivity; it is directly connected to the world-class transmission that engages beneath. The shift is surrounded by a piano black finish, which carries back-lit, surface-flush touch switches for windows, door locks, related chassis controls, and an electronically actuated parking brake system.

Sensory-Touch Switches

The actuation of almost all articulating elements on the GTX is enabled by the incorporation of sensory touch switchwork. Located on the doors, rear trunk, and interior center console, actuation is essentially the equivalent of lightly touching a pane of glass.

The touch-actuated switchwork enables the overall clean and uninterrupted surfacing found outside and within the GTX. A magnetic field surrounding each switch location immediately recognizes the light pressure being applied as human or other (e.g. a pet or briefcase).
Articulating Doors

The driver and passenger doors on the Devon GTX articulate up, then forward following light depression of a touch switch located on the relating exterior door panel. Once the touch switch is activated, the door is de-latched. From there, a light lift – or push / pull downward to close – is all that's needed, thanks to hydraulic assist.

McIntosh Audio System

• The McIntosh Audio System found on the new Devon GTX -- designed by Haas Entertainment in collaboration with McIntosh Laboratory – is specifically tuned to the physical characteristics of the vehicle and incorporates the following:
• McIntosh MX406 AM/FM/CD player located in the centerstack. Sporting an acrylic faceplate that has the classic look familiar to McIntosh lovers, the unit brings a new standard of performance to the vehicle audio arena. It incorporates a blue fluorescent information panel as well as brand-specific touches such as a rotary volume control and analogue bass and treble controls;
• The MPM4000 Power Output Meter allows occupants to monitor the actual power output of the McIntosh Power Amplifier from the centerstack of the car. The direct reading wattage meters are calibrated to read from 1/100th of a watt up to 200 watts all packaged in a single DIN chassis that mounts aesthetically above the MX406;
• MSS 630 speakers which consist of a pair of 6.5-inch midrange speakers (mounted in the doors) and a pair of tweeters (mounted on each side of the IP). In all, the speakers deliver exceptionally low distortion and smooth frequency response with a host of cutting-edge componentry;
• Single HERTZ high energy HL 70 3-inch midrange mounted in the center of the IP to bring the imaging and acoustic more forward in the car;
• 2.8-inch McIntosh subwoofers in the rear shelf of the car on each side of the amplifier; and,
• A McIntosh Mcc406m 6 channel amplifier, which will be mounted in the center of the rear shelf between the subwoofers.

We are amazed every time we see a new creation from the Blastolene Brothers, and this latest monster we spotted at last night's Jet Center party in Monterey made our jaws drop. Built by Randy Grubb, the same man responsible for designing and constructing Jay Leno's tank car, this rolling monster is comprised of a chopped Peterbilt model 351 cab and an 852ci two-stroke Detroit Diesel twin-supercharged V12 mated to an Allison 4-speed automatic transmission from a Greyhound bus.


The engine produces 500 horsepower and nearly 1000 lb-ft torque with a redline of just 2,800 rpm. Other features include a custom boat-tail gas tank, Baer brakes, stitched leather seats made by a saddle maker and a customized rear end from a semi truck. Overall, Grubb spent over 3,000 man hours and 15 months to build this one off creation and has lovingly given it the nickname "Piss'd Off Pete." Check out all the incredible details in the high-res gallery below.
More Photos

The web is all about immediacy, and by that token, you should have seen these Greenwich Concours d'Elegance photos right after the event happened. Your humble correspondent, however, was juggling the Concours with his own family vacation preparations, and couldn't deliver in a timely fashion. However, like Dick Nixon, I'm now tanned, rested and ready, so follow the jump for several themed photo galleries and the annual rundown on what you missed if you weren't able to make the stop in Greenwich,
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