Archive for detroit
Honda CR-Z Hybrid Detroit Motor Show 2010
Posted by: | CommentsHonda has revealed its new CR-Z, billed as the world’s first hybrid sports car, here at the Detroit motor show.
It’s powered by a modified version of the IMA system from the Insight, fitted with a larger 102bhp 1.5-litre petrol engine and a 20bhp electric motor in an effort to boost performance.
The Japanese firm says the funky looking CR-Z 2+2 revives the spirit of the early-90s CRX and brings dynamic, fun-to-drive qualities that have never been offered before on hybrid vehicles. It also offers excellent economy with a claimed combined fuel consumption of 56.4mpg and 117g/km CO2 emissions.
“The CR-Z is a sport hybrid coupe for people with a spirit of adventure and an elevated sense of responsibility toward the environment,” said John Mendel, VP of sales for American Honda.
Three settings allow the driver to prime the powertrain for sporty or economical driving, while a performance-bias chassis set-up and relatively light kerbweight of 1198kg should ensure the CR-Z is reasonably nimble.
A European version of the hybrid coupe with more conservative styling is due to make its debut at the Geneva motor show in March; it will have to be appealing because Honda sources say prices will start from a not insubstantial £18,000.
Detriot Auto Show, 12 January 2010
BMW Z4 sDrive35i – Detroit Motor Show 2010
Posted by: | CommentsThis is the new top of the range non-M version of the Z4, Unvailed Monday at the Detroit motor show, with 335bhp.
It’s called the sDrive35i and is fitted with a tuned version of BMW’s excellent straight six engine, featuring a new overboost function that temporarily raise torque to a whopping 369lb ft for spiritfull mid-range acceleration.
Fitted with a seven speed dual clutch gearbox, this Z4 deals with the 0-62mph dash in just 4.8 seconds and can go on to an electronically limited 155mph top speed approx 170mph unlimited.
The M Sport packages are fitted as standard, while lower bumpers and new 18-inch alloys mark it apart from the standard car. It’ll be loud too because BMW has adjusted the exhaust system to offer “powerful acoustic feedback.”
New Ford Focus 2011
Posted by: | CommentsDETROIT, Jan. 11, 2010 – The next-generation Ford Focus makes its worldwide debut providing customers with more affordable technologies and features than ever in this segment, as well as detailed craftsmanship, outstanding fuel economy and a new standard for driving quality.
Sleek, stylish and sporty, both the four-door sedan and five-door hatchback body styles of the next-generation Focus are previewed prior to their production start for Europe and North America late in 2010 and market launch early in 2011.
The new Focus will be nearly identical in all markets, with 80 percent parts commonality around the world.
“The new Ford Focus is a clear demonstration that our ONE Ford strategy is providing global consumers with great products that harness the best of Ford Motor Company,” said Alan Mulally, Ford’s president and CEO.
Simultaneous launch in Europe and North America
Production of the next-generation Ford Focus will begin simultaneously in Europe and North America in late 2010, with individual market launches starting early in 2011. Launches in Asia, Africa and South America will follow. Initial production will be concentrated at the Saarlouis (Germany), Michigan (United States) and Chongqing (China) Assembly Plants.
The new Focus will be one of up to 10 unique models to be built from Ford’s new C-car platform, which is expected to generate total sales in all regions of 2 million units annually by 2012. The first of these will be the new Ford C-MAX and Ford Grand C-MAX – unveiled at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show – for launch in Europe in the second half of 2010.
