Monday, November 8, 2010

LAMBORGHINI Murcielago LP670-4 Superveloce (2010)

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Lamborghini Murcielago LP670-4 Superveloce
 
Lamborghini Murcielago Gets New SuperVeloce Halo Supercar Model
Not so long ago, Lamborghini cars like the Mucielago, and their Ferrari counterparts, were just about the fastest things money could by. In the last couple of years, the rise of the boutique supercar has had an effect on the Italians. Lamborghini hits back with the 2010 Murcielago LP 670-4 SuperVeloce, the fastest and most pure sports car ever to roll out of the Italian car icon's factory.

Smoking lesser Lamborghini Murcielago cars in nearly every respect, the SuperVeloce benefits from a lightened and totally reworked Lamborghini V12 engine, now producing 670 horsepower at the crank and helping the SuperVeloce weigh in at 220 pounds less than the standard Murcielago cars.

Lamborghini Murcielago SuperVeloce driving dynamics set it apart.
More power and weight savings are nice for straight line speed and on spec sheets, but where Lamborghini has perhaps fallen behind nontraditional record holders like Nissan and Chevrolet has been in the handling department. The SuperVeloce seeks to change all that, combining front and rear variable limited slip differentials with an AWD system that is all about the track.

Sitting on a double wishbone suspension at all four corners with an innovative system utilizing a dual strut setup in the rear, the Murcielago SuperVeloce and its AWD system react to the road.

The weight distribution favors the rear ever so slightly, but with dual differentials able to send up to 35 percent of the power up front at a moment's notice, expect the SuperVeloce to be a very forgiving supercar without losing driving prowess.

Lamborghini Murcielago SuperVeloce body and aerodynamics - Weight savings everywhere.
In addition to the lighter Lamborghini V12 powerplant, the Murcielago SuperVeloce gets extensive weight savings in the body with nearly 75 pounds shed in chassis and body panels. Particularly striking is the engine cover.

Functional as it is beautiful, the carbon and plexiglass honeycomb cover for the mid-mounted V12 is open in each section at its rear end, allowing greater cooling potential for an engine that will undoubtedly see some significant time at limit.

LAMBORGHINI Murcielago LP650-4 Roadster (2010)

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Murcielago LP650-4 Roadster (2010)

Lamborghini Murcielago Gets 200mph+ Targa-Style Roadster With AWD
Lamborghini of late has been milking every dollar it can from the aging Murcielago with one special edition after another, counting on the supersports coupe and roadster to continue to sell to its clientele until the eventual introduction of an all-new top bull.

The latest in the line, in a limited run of 50 units that are sure to sell immediately, is the quickest and most dramatic modern-day factory Lambo to date, the 2010 Lamborghini Murcielago LP 650-4 Roadster.

The new 650-4 features the most powerful engine in a drop top Lamborghini to date, a version of the company's ubiquitous V12 massaged out to 6.5 liters and 650 horsepower. As the "-4" extension indicates, the Murcielago LP560-4 Roadster carries permanent all wheel drive which should help to keep it on the road in the hands of drivers whose wallets outweigh their skill.

AWD helps the heavier roadster version of the Murcielago make it to 100 km/h from a standstill in 3.4 seconds, all the way up to a top speed of 205 mph. For comparison purposes, the 2WD standard-trim Murcielago Roadster takes 3.8 seconds to reach 100 km/h.

All 2010 Murcielago LP 650-4 cars get identical exterior paint and trim, with flat gray main body color with orange and carbon accents. The V12 is housed amidships under a transparent cover so pedestrians and truck drivers can know what the driver is packing.

Contact Lamborghini for availability, but don't cross your fingers if you don't have serious clout in the car world. Once the limited run of 50 are gone, you'll just have to wait for the next special edition a couple months down the line.


LAMBORGHINI Reventon Roadster (2010)

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Lamborghini presents the ultimate driving machine among open-top two-seaters - the Lamborghini Reventón Roadster is a sports car of breathtaking fascination, menacing power and uncompromising performance. The 6.5 liter twelve-cylinder generates 493 kW (670 PS), catapulting the Roadster from 0 to 100 Km/h (0 to 62 mph) in 3.4 seconds and onwards to a top speed of 330 KM/h (205 mph). The open-top Lamborghini Reventón is not only one of the fastest, but also one of the most exclusive cars in the world - Lamborghini has limited the series.
The Lamborghini Reventón is not destined to remain a one-off. Less than 20 Lamborghini friends and collectors will be able to own this extraordinary car and, naturally, enjoy the incomparable pleasure of driving it.

Each Lamborghini Reventón Roadster will be sold for 1.1 Million Euro (without taxes). Deliveries will begin October 2009.

"The Lamborghini Reventón is the most extreme car in the history of the brand," comments Stephan Winkelmann, President and CEO of Automobili Lamborghini S.p.A. "The new Roadster adds an extra emotional component to our combined technological expertise - it unites superior performance with the sensual fascination of open-top driving." The Lamborghini Reventón Coupé was presented at the 2007 IAA in Frankfurt and was sold out immediately.

Open-top sports cars are a tradition at Lamborghini that stretches back over 40 years. In 1968, the company from Sant'Agata Bolognese built a Lamborghini Miura without a fixed roof as a one-off. The Lamborghini Diablo Roadster appeared in 1995 with its targa roof anchored to the engine cover.

All Lamborghinis are created with an avantgarde approach to design; a fast-moving technical sculpture. The Lamborghini Reventón Roadster is derived from the same creative thinking as the Coupé. Its designers found their inspiration in aviation - the aggressive wedge shape evokes images of fighter jets.

The powerful arrowhead form at the front, the mighty air intakes pulled way forward, the broad side skirts, the upwards opening scissor doors and the rear end with its menacing edges - the Roadster is clad in a design of maximum functionality and spectacular clarity. Details set stylish accents, such as headlamps featuring bi-xenon units with LEDs forming the daytime running lights and indicators. The rear lamps are also equipped with LEDs.

Like the Coupé, the Lamborghini Reventón Roadster measures 4700 mm (185 in.) long. It has a wheelbase of 2665 mm (105 in.) and is 2058 mm (81 in.) wide and 1132 mm (45 in.) high. The driver and passenger seating positions are low and sporty, separated by a substantial central tunnel.

Behind the two seats are two hidden pop-up bars that deploy upwards in just a few hundredths of a second in the event of an imminent rollover. A fixed, horizontal wing-shaped member behind the seats bears the third brake light. The design of the Lamborghini Reventón Roadster's long back is also quite distinct from that of the Coupé. The engine bonnet is virtually horizontal and a total of four windows made from glass provide a view of the mighty V12 in all its technical elegance.

Stiff bodyshell base
The base bodyshell of the Lamborghini Reventón is already so stiff that the Roadster requires only minimal reinforcement. It has a dry weight of only 1690 Kg (3,725 lbs.), just 25 Kg, (55 lbs.) more than the Coupé.

Like the Coupé, the cell of the Roadster is made from high-strength steel profile and carbon components joined with specialist adhesive and rivets. The bodyshell is made almost entirely from carbon fiber elements, with sheet steel used only for the outer door skins.

Exclusive grey paintwork
A unique paint finish completes the razor sharp design language of the Lamborghini Reventón Roadster. For this exclusive special edition, designers have created a new shade of matt grey called Reventón Grey. As for the Reventón Coupé, which is a slightly different shade of grey, this is a matt paint finish that, in the sunlight, displays an unexpected impression of depth thanks to its special metal particles.

The wheels of the Lamborghini Reventón Roadster also incorporate the interplay of matt and glossy elements. The five spokes of the rims each bear a Y-form, and on each spoke are mounted small crescent-shaped wings made from matte carbon. These provide not only an unusual visual impact, but also a turbine effect that further improves cooling of the mighty ceramic brake discs.

Aircraft-style displays
The interior of the Lamborghini Reventón Roadster conveys the same powerful design as the exterior. The cockpit is structured with technical clarity, the interfaces arranged for functionality. Like a modern aircraft, the open two-seater no longer has classic analogue instrumentation - instead, information is delivered via two transreflective and one transmissive liquid-crystal displays.

The driver can switch between two modes at the touch of a button - one digital view with illuminated bars and one level with classic round dials, albeit with changing color graphics. Centrally located at the top of the display is the G-force meter. It represents the intensity of the forces acting on the Lamborghini Reventón Roadster under acceleration, braking and heavy cornering; the same format used in Formula 1.

The instruments are mounted in a casing machined from solid aluminum which is housed in a carbon fiber dashboard. The interior displays uncompromisingly clean craftsmanship and features a host of carbon fiber applications - e.g. on the center tunnel - aluminum, Alcantara and leather. The central panels and the seat cushions are perforated, with precision stitching gracing their outer edges.

Lamborghini has equipped the Lamborghini Reventón Roadster with full options.

An icon of engine design
The twelve-cylinder engine that powers the Lamborghini Reventón Roadster is a Lamborghini icon - and the technical feature that defines the character of the car. It is one of the world's most powerful naturally-aspirated engines. With a compression ratio of 11 : 1 and a displacement of 6496 cc (396.41 in3,) it generates 670 PS (493 kW) at 8,000 rpm. Its maximum torque of 660 Nm (487 lb-ft) kicks in at 6,000 rpm.

The V12 engine is a masterpiece of Italian engineering. Two chains drive its four camshafts that, in turn, operate the 48 valves. Together with the three-phase adjustable intake manifold, the variable valve timing delivers a meaty torque build-up. Dry sump lubrication ensures that the hi-tech power unit has a constant supply of oil, even under heavy lateral acceleration. The absence of the oil sump means a low mounting position - benefitting the car's outstanding handling characteristics.

The V12 catapults the Lamborghini Reventón Roadster from 0 to 100 Km/h (0 to 62 mph) in 3.4 seconds and onwards to a top speed of 330 Km/h (205 mph). It reacts with the eagerness of a racing engine to input from the right foot, revving to 8,000 rpm and beyond, and performing a symphony that sends shudders along the spine. The deep booming bass, the powerful mid-range and the exultant horn section play music that, once heard, can never be forgotten.

All-wheel drive for maximum traction
In classic Lamborghini style, the aluminum engine is mounted longitudinally in front of the rear axle, with the transmission ahead of it beneath the center tunnel. This layout results in 58 percent of the overall weight being borne by the rear wheels - ideal for a powerful sports car.

This layout accommodates the Viscous Traction permanent all-wheel drive. Under normal conditions, it sends the vast majority of the driving force to the rear wheels. Should they begin to spin, the central viscous coupling sends up to 35 percent of the power via an additional shaft to the front axle. Limited-slip differentials are located there and at the rear axle with 25 and 45 percent lock respectively.

Lamborghini introduced the all-wheel drive principle with the Diablo. The reason back then was just as clear as it is today - four driven wheels grip far better than two, and the more powerful the engine, the greater the impact of this fundamental law of physics.

Also standard on the Lamborghini Reventón Roadster is the e.gear automated six-speed sequential manual transmission. The driver controls the gear shift, which is activated hydraulically via two steering wheel paddles. In addition to the "Normal" mode, the system offers a "Corsa" and a "low adherence" mode. The driver just has to keep his foot to the floor - the rest is handled by e.gear.

Running gear layout from motorsport
The Lamborghini Reventón Roadster keeps the extreme power of its engine in check with a running gear layout derived directly from motorsport. Each wheel boasts double wishbone suspension, with one spring strut on each side of the front axle and two each at the rear. The front end of the car can be raised by 40 mm (about 1.6 in.) to protect the underside of the vehicle over potholes or on steep entrances into underground garages.

The open two-seater runs on 18-inch wheels. The front tires measure 245/35, while the rears are 335/30. Dedicated air channels in the bodyshell cool the four wheel brakes. Carbon-fiber ceramic discs are standard - they have an extremely lightweight construction, operate with virtually no fade, are corrosion-free and achieve the highest service life. Each disc has a diameter of 380 mm (~15 in.) and is gripped by six-piston calipers.

As fast as the open two-seater may be, its road manners are impeccable. Its performance limits are extremely high, yet effortless to control. And, on exiting a bend, all four wheels stick tenaciously to the asphalt. The permanent all-wheel drive dovetails the car firmly with the road, delivering decisive benefits in traction and stability.

High-performance aerodynamics
A further distinctive characteristic of the Lamborghini Reventón Roadster is its calm directional stability even at extremely high speeds - a feature that also turns fast highway stretches into sheer joy. Alongside the bodyshell design and the smooth underbody, which culminates in a powerfully formed diffuser, the rear spoiler carries responsibility for downforce. It deploys from the rear edge at about 130 Km/h (80 mph) and adopts an even steeper angle as of about 220 Km/h (136 mph). The entire aerodynamic concept - around and through the car - is radically laid out for performance.

State-of the-art development techniques
Lamborghini used state-of-the-art, highly networked processes to bring the Lamborghini Reventón Roadster to life. The design, CAD work and model making that took place in the Centro Stile, which opened in 2004, were accompanied continuously by specialists and test engineers from the Research & Development Department.

The Design Department is directly linked to the neighbouring Ufficio Tecnico, ensuring rapid implementation of ideas. Lamborghini's capabilities also include the independent development of the complete electronic platform. This incorporates all control units - including those for the V12 and the innovative cockpit displays.

All units of the Lamborghini Reventón Roadster are being built on the Sant'Agata Bolognese production line, with perfect craftsmanship and to the highest levels of quality.

HUMMER H3T Alpha (2009)

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HUMMER H3T Alpha (2009)

Hummer is bringing its unmistakable style and unmatched capability to the truck market with the 2009 H3T. It is based on the architecture of the popular H3, but features a five-passenger crew cab and a separate five-foot-long (1.5 meters) bed.

The H3T is bigger than a midsize truck and smaller than a full-size truck, creating its own niche in the market. It also is infused with the attributes expected of a HUMMER, including exceptional off-road capability and a premium interior that is as functional as it is comfortable.

'With its unique size and HUMMER traits, the H3T is ideal for the customer who works hard and plays harder,' said Martin Walsh, HUMMER general manager. 'It offers the combination of truck versatility and HUMMER off-road prowess that delivers customers to the trail in style.'

In addition to its segment-defying size, the H3T also stands apart from other trucks with its signature HUMMER off-road capability. It is the only midsize truck to come standard with full-time four-wheel drive, 32-inch tires and functional skid shields. It also is the only midsize truck to offer front and rear locking differentials, as well as 33-inch tires. The V-8-powered H3T Alpha can tow up to 5,900 pounds (2,676 kg).

The H3T is offered in four trim levels, including five-cylinder models and the popular, V-8-powered H3T Alpha edition. Production is scheduled to begin in the third quarter of 2008 at GM's Shreveport, La., assembly plant, with vehicles arriving at HUMMER dealerships shortly thereafter. HUMMER will sell the H3T in North America, Europe and the Middle East.

Design
Like all HUMMER models, the H3T has a purposeful design. Its consistent and iconic styling cues include a wide, aggressive stance; a low roofline and high beltline; and large, off-road tires. The wide, seven-slot grille and round headlamps mounted in square housings are signature HUMMER design elements.

'Form following function is at the core of HUMMER's design philosophy, and the H3T's capability reflects that mantra,' said Carl Zipfel, HUMMER director of design and former motocross professional. 'It has a distinctive look that could be mistaken for nothing except a HUMMER – and it also has the functionality to get the driver to and from the trail in style.'

The crew cab body shares H3 styling and components from the B-pillar forward, while the rear section of the cab and the separate bed are unique to the H3T. The five-foot bed is similar in design and function to GM's recently redesigned full-size trucks, including an easily removable tailgate and provisions for a bed-rail accessory system. A full-size spare tire is mounted beneath the bed.

The bed is sized to carry a wide range of popular outdoor necessities, from hauling motocross bikes to Baja, a quad to camp, or backcountry gear to the trailhead. One of the industry's largest portfolios of accessories complements the H3T's bed, offering different cargo management options to suit all of those lifestyle interests.

HUMMER H3 Alpha (2008)

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HUMMER H3 Alpha (2008)

For 2008, HUMMER has addressed one of the sticking points many people have had with the smaller H3 model, namely, the lack of a V8 engine. While the 3.7L inline 5 has adequate power to shuttle the H3 around, the burble of a V8's exhaust note and the associated extra thrust would certainly have been more in keeping with the brand image created by the monster-sized H1 and solidified by the more-realistic H2.

With the return of the Alpha moniker last seen on the top-end H1, HUMMER fixed the H3's biggest problem. The Alpha, you see, has 5.3 liters of V8 power underhood. Read on after the jump.

The freshly-available small-block V8 dishes out 295 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque, a very healthy and welcome increase over the I5's 242 horses and 242 lb-ft of torque. The available V8 gives the small HUMMER a maximum towing capacity of 6,000 pounds.

Inside, the H3 Alpha's cabin remains essentially unchanged save for an "Alpha" badge on the steering wheel. it's well-appointed to begin with, as the H3 Luxury Package is part of the greater Alpha trim level. Roof-rail side-curtain airbags, an option on the '07 truck, are now standard equipment as well. Like its big-brother H2, the '08 H3 gets a silver-painted lower front bumper. The Alpha package can also be combined with the H3X to give the maximum-bling H3 the newfound V8 punch as well. With the availability of V8 power for the H3, HUMMER has now fleshed out its existing lineup and given potential buyers two distinct flavors of the entry-level HUMMER to choose from. This is good. Now, where's that long-rumored Wrangler competitor?

HUMMER H2 (2008)

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HUMMER H2 (2008)

The 2008 Hummer H2 gets a redesigned interior and more powerful engine. This premium large SUV is available as a 4-door wagon and a pickup-like SUT. Like the Chevrolet Avalanche, the SUT features a folding midgate between the cabin and cargo bed. Responding to criticism that the H2's interior trailed the competition in materials quality and overall design, Hummer updates its big SUV's passenger compartment for 2008. With the revised interior comes an available 2-passenger 3rd-row seat. Also new is a 393-hp 6.2-liter V8 that replaces a 325-hp 6.0-liter. A 6-speed automatic with steering wheel paddles for manual operation is the only transmission. Maximum towing capacity is 8000 lb, up from 6500 lb. H2s have all-wheel drive with low-range gearing for off-road use. Severe off-road equipment is available. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, and curtain side airbags. Also standard are OnStar assistance and leather upholstery with heated 1st- and 2nd-row seats. This evaluation is based on preview test drives.

HONDA HSV-010 GT (2010)

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Honda HSV-010 GT

Technical Specifications

* Dimensions
o Length: 4675 mm
o Width: 2000 mm
o Vehicle weight: 1100+ kg
* Engine
o Engine name: HR10EG
o Configuration: Liquid-cooled, naturally aspirated, longitudinal V8
o V angle: 90°
o Valve train: Gear-driven DOHC - 2 intake and 2 exhaust valves per cylinder
o Displacement: 3397 cm3
o Bore x stroke: 93.0 x 62.5 mm
o Maximum output: 500 PS (370 KW)
o Maximum torque: 392 Nm
o Throttle control system: Mechanical
o Fuel supply system: Programmed fuel injection system (Honda PGM-FI)
o Fuel: Lead-free premium gasoline
o Lubrication: Dry sump
* Powertrain
o Transmission mechanism: Constant mesh
o Transmission shifting method: Steering paddle shifter
o Steering system mechanism: Rack and pinion system with electric power steering (EPS)
* Tires
o front: 330/40R18
o rear: 330/45R17
* Brake type and mechanism: Hydraulic ventilated disc system
* Suspension system: Double wishbone
* Stabilizer: Torsion bar