Aston Martin Confirms V12 Vantage Special for North and South America

In response to what the famous British sports car maker describes as "unprecedented customer demand", Aston Martin has decided to bring its V12 Vantage special to North and South American markets.

Even though prices are to be confirmed in the coming weeks, the V12 Vantage is available to order now with deliveries to the Americas expected to commence during the fourth quarter of the year.

Along with the standard version of the V12 Vantage, Aston Martin will also offer the strictly limited Carbon Black special edition that features a bespoke Carbon Black metallic paint, unique alloy wheels and special trim options.

Originally launched in 2009 at the Geneva Motor Show, the V12 Vantage is based on the V8 Vantage model. It is powered by a 6.0-liter V12 engine producing 510 bhp (380 kW / 517 PS), and 420 lb ft (570 Nm) of torque that propels the British sports car to 62 mph (0-100 km/h) in 4.2 seconds and on to a top speed of 190mph or 305km/h.

BMW X5 Security Plus SAV Official Debut

A new level of comprehensive protection:The new BMW X5 Security Plus.BMW first high-volume manufacturer to offer a vehicle in the bullet resistance class 6.

(14.04.2009 Munich) BMW is extending its range of security vehicles by an additional model in a new protection class.

The BMW X5 Security Plus complies with the requirements of bullet resistance class 6 (APR 2006), bringing versatile mobility and comprehensive protection against criminal assault into line with each other.

It is the first vehicle produced by a high-volume manufacturer to offer a security concept aimed at lessening the danger of attacks using the world's most widely used handgun of the type AK 47.

The vehicle, which was developed on the basis of the successful BMW X5 Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV), offers room for up to four persons inside an exceptionally well-protected passenger cabin.

Moreover, its superior drive and suspension technology also allows the driver to cope effortlessly with demanding situations, both on the road and on rough terrain. With the BMW X5 Security Plus, BMW is defining a new benchmark in protection against crime on the road.
Bmw Car gallery

The security concept for the BMW X5 Security Plus focuses on its armoured passenger cabin. It guarantees excellent protection, including the use of high-performance steel moulded components and panels.

The body features sealed joints, which also provide protection in critical areas – e.g. between doors and frames as well as between side panels and pillars – thus preventing bullet or fragment penetration, as well as security glass conceived exclusively for this bullet resistance class. Furthermore, the windows resist attack using clubs, crowbars etc. and feature a polycarbonate coating that protects the interior from glass shatter.

BMW X5 Security Plus: Premiere for a new benchmark in security.

The BMW X5 Security Plus was tested in compliance with the BRV 1999 guideline for bullet-resistant vehicles and offers protection according to VPAM – APR 2006 in the bullet resistance class 6.

The professional protection concept for the new BMW X5 Security Plus is, inter alia, designed to combat criminal threats such as robbery, abduction or carjacking, however, additionally for employment in hot spots in which the AK 47 has become a typical firearm used by assailants.

The BMW X5 Security Plus offers comprehensive protection against these kind of attacks. Its security features were devised exclusively for this model and thoroughly tested within the framework of product development. The integration of the protective components was effected parallel to the series development of the BMW X5.

Effective protection as standard, perfectly tuned to the Sports Activity Vehicle.
Therefore, like all other BMW security vehicles, the BMW X5 Security Plus also offers comprehensive protection as standard. As opposed to retrofitted armour plating, BMW security vehicle assembly guarantees that all components are perfectly adapted to each specific model and, in addition, correspond the stringent BMW quality assurance guidelines.

Assembly of the BMW X5 Security Plus is effected parallel to the production vehicle at the Spartanburg plant in South Carolina/USA. The installation of protective features is performed in accordance with BMW processes at the Toluca plant (Mexico).

BMW's more than 30 years of experience in security vehicle construction is apparent both in the development and the production of the BMW X5 Security Plus.

The standard security features of the BMW X5 Security Plus include, in addition to the effective armour plating, distinctive technical attributes that provide assistance in dealing with hazardous situations. An intercom system facilitates communication with persons outside the vehicle, without having to open doors or windows. The hold-up alarm ensures that windows and doors lock automatically.

Furthermore, acoustic and visual alarm signals are emitted. The system's control elements are located behind a panel on the centre console. Optional features include a rear view camera which transmits its images to the control display of the iDrive operating system located on the dashboard, providing assistance during reversing.

The camera of the side view system integrated into the front bumper offers a detailed overview of what is going on in front of the vehicle. For example, when leaving a multi-storey car park or driving through narrow gateways, it is possible to identify cross traffic in good time.

Furthermore, the standard features of the BMW X5 Security Plus also include bi-xenon headlights with adaptive cornering light. These ensure optimum visibility thanks to a light beam that follows the course of the bend. In addition, this cornering light function ensures premature illumination of the road ahead when changing direction at road junctions or driveways.

Agile and safe on any terrain.
Over and above the outstanding level of security, the BMW X5 Security Plus also impresses with the highest degree of comfort, first-class handling and extremely sporty road performance.

Thanks to its generous interior, its powerful eight-cylinder engine and intelligent four-wheel drive BMW xDrive, it is adequately equipped both for everyday traffic as well as for situations requiring fast and flexible response.

The 4.8-litre V8 power unit of the BMW X5 Security Plus delivers an output of 261 kW/355 bhp and a maximum torque of 475 Nm achieved at an engine speed of 3,400 rpm. The BMW X5 Security Plus accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.2 seconds and top speed is electronically limited to 180 km/h.

Thanks to its intelligent four-wheel drive system xDrive, the BMW X5 Security Plus is not restricted to driving on tarmac alone, but can also cope confidently with problematic off-road terrain.

The cross-linking of the four-wheel drive with the stability control system DSC within the Integrated Chassis Management system (ICM) facilitates distribution of power that is optimally and precisely adapted to each driving situation. Taking into consideration the data supplied by the DSC sensors, iDrive transfers power at lightning speed to the wheels with the best traction.

The suspension featured by the BMW X5 Security Plus is perfectly adapted to the increased weight. For this purpose, specific suspension components such as springs and dampers have been employed and the software for suspension management has been adapted to the unique characteristics of a security vehicle.

In order to further enhance superiority in demanding situations, the BMW X5 Security Plus features as standard a high-performance brake system, speed-dependent Active Steering and the Adaptive Drive system, comprising active anti-roll control and variable damper adjustment.
In addition, the BMW X5 Security Plus boasts tyres with emergency running properties. This ensures that the tyres remain functional even after a total loss of pressure, e.g. after being shot at or after running over sharp or pointed objects. When the vehicle is partially loaded, they permit safe driving over a distance of around 150 kilometres at a speed of up to 80 km/h.

A further advantage of the protection concept available ex factory is the neutrally designed integration of all security components. Even to the practiced eye, security vehicles built by BMW can hardly be distinguished from corresponding production models.

This does justice to customer demands for discretion and also provides passengers with a higher level of security.

At the same time BMW offers its customers comprehensive global support. This ranges from discreet consulting and all-round service to the supply of spare parts. All security vehicles are designed to facilitate maintenance and repair at regular BMW garages. The service also includes a company-owned pool comprising security and high-security vehicles.
Moreover, BMW provides special security vehicle driver training. These courses, which BMW has conducted for more than 20 years now, are offered at various grades, depending on the participants' previous knowledge, and are held at several different locations worldwide.

These training courses are conducted by highly qualified experts. The contents range from comprehensive theoretical tuition and practical vehicle handling to instruction on tactical behaviour.

BMW 760i,760Li Debut at Shanghait Auto Show 2009

 

Two turbochargers, two more gears: The BMW 760i leads the V-12 game now, which is making world debut at the 2009 Shanghai Auto Show.

Each country makes its specific contribution to automotive greatness: Germany, for example, has the autobahn, where unlimited speed still rules. But with gasoline prices approaching the equivalent of $7.50 a gallon and more, it's no wonder that fuel-sipping technologies such as BMW's "efficient dynamics" are all the rage. This is where other markets, such as the U.S. or Asia, come in. They don't have much to offer in terms of high-speed, long-distance cruising, but thanks to status-conscious customers, ultra-powerful V-12 engines are in sufficient demand to warrant constant updates.
Huffing and Puffing

"We need a V-12 mainly for Asian and American customers," confirms a BMW engineer. And so, the Shanghai auto show will see BMW launch a new V-12 version of the new-for-2009 7-series. The 2010 760i and the long-wheelbase 760Li are powered by an all-aluminum, direct-injected 6.0-liter V-12, which, unlike its 439-hp predecessor, is force-fed by two turbochargers. The two compressors are placed in a conventional manner outside the cylinder banks, each feeding six cylinders. Output for the new engine is 536 hp at 5250 rpm, while 553 lb-ft of torque is available from as low as 1500 rpm.

BMW says the engine is an all-new design, but we can't help noticing that it retains the same displacement of its predecessor, which in turn is related to the 6.7-liter, naturally aspirated V-12 in the Rolls-Royce Phantom. A compression ratio of 10.0:1 is high for a turbocharged engine, but is manageable due to the cooling effect of injecting fuel directly into the combustion chambers. A 6.6-liter version of the new V-12 with up to 600 hp also is expected to make its way under the hood of the Phantom’s upcoming little brother, which will go on sale next year and was previewed by the 200EX concept at the Geneva auto show in March.

Transferring the power to the rear wheels is a ZF-sourced eight-speed automatic transmission. This gearbox, which also will be featured in the upcoming 2010 Audi A8, can skip through its ratios while engaging only one clutch mechanism, shortening shift times and allowing for multiple-gear downshifts. Additionally, it is configurable for hybrid-electric operation, which BMW will employ on several upcoming models, including the 7-series.

Movin’ the Metal

Twin-turbocharging catapults the biggest Bimmer into another league. Despite its considerable mass, 62 mph comes up in 4.6 seconds, BMW says, while fuel consumption is 18 mpg in the European cycle, which we believe is a tad unrealistic. The 760i also is ULEV II-rated in the U.S., but we are even more impressed by the flaps in the exhaust system, which BMW promises will let the normally silent V-12 sing when you apply sufficient pressure to the throttle.

We are also impressed by the fact that the model designation accurately reflects the vehicle’s engine displacement—something of a rarity in BMW's lineup, as well as Mercedes-Benz’s. Speaking of which, the new 760i should be a closer match for the Mercedes S600, which makes only 510 hp from its twin-turbocharged, 5.5-liter V-12 and in our hands has sprinted to 60 mph in 4.2 seconds. The top-level S65 AMG, however, remains in the lineup and is rated at 604 hp. Given BMW’s newfound openness to M-badged SUVs, though, a future M7 doesn’t seem like such a stretch.

Executive Status

The 760i comes with or offers every gadget currently available on lesser 7-series models, including standard electronic dampers, stability control, and front and rear air suspensions with a self-leveling function in the rear. Active steering and anti-roll bars are optional, as are safety nannies such as night vision, lane-departure warning, adaptive headlights, and active cruise control with stop-and-go capability.

While we don't have pricing yet, we expect the 760i will command a hefty premium over V-8 750i models, which start at $82,125. And to inform neighbors of your taste for luxury and power, the 760i’s somewhat obtrusive fender badge—common to all 7-series—bears a V-12 moniker, while chrome strips accent the quad exhaust pipes and the lower front bumper. The front kidney grilles also get larger chrome surrounds, with other unique touches including special 19-inch wheels, a nappa leather-lined instrument panel, and an Alcantara headliner.

It may not make much of an effort to save the world, but we can't wait to get the new 760 on an open stretch of autobahn and celebrate the result of all that multi-cultural input.

Hertz Buy Advantage Rent A Car For $33M

Hertz Global Holdings Inc. (HTZ) will buy Advantage Rent A Car for $33 million, after the rental-car company's bid won out over another offer for the company.

Advantage, suffering along with the rest of the sector from the weak economy and tight credit, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in December. The company, which posted 2008 revenue of $146 million, has 20 locations, down from 140 at its peak.

Hertz hasn't been immune from those issues, having swung to a big fourth-quarter loss on charges. Revenue also fell 16% to $1.78 billion in the quarter. Just this week, Standard & Poor's Ratings Services lowered Hertz's long-term corporate credit rating two notches deeper into junk.

The car-rental industry has suffered as everyone cuts back on travel. The weak economy and credit crunch also have made it harder for rental-car companies to find buyers for their used automobiles and to secure financing to buy new ones. The industry is lobbying Congress to allow car-rental companies to use Troubled Asset Relief Program funds to finance new auto purchases.

Still, Hertz gains a brand aimed at price-sensitive customers in U.S. leisure destinations, showing how the recession has made it easier for bigger, stronger players to pick up distressed competitors.

The bankruptcy court will hold a hearing Friday, with Hertz expecting a close next Wednesday.

Hertz shares were unchanged in after-hours trading. They ended the regular session up 7.4% at $4.22.

上海车展 新车 即将上市

上海车展梅赛德斯-AMG将率领多款新车出席车展，其中改款S65 AMG、C63 AMG、SL63 AMG首次以官方身份在中国市场亮相。

『SLK55 AMG』

● SLK55 AMG

SLK55 AMG，输出360马力，百公里加速4.9秒，最快时速可达250公里。它使用了AMG家族里唯一的一款5.5升V8自然吸气发动机，一旦引入，除了完成秉承“一人一机”

『SLK55 AMG』

哲学下AMG的现有四款发动机在国内的一次会师，更可以视为对刚刚引入的TT-S的一个有效制衡。SLK55 AMG的硬顶敞篷可以在22秒内完成一款硬顶轿跑车到一款敞篷跑车的无缝变身，而AIRSCARF（头枕部暖风系统）的设计更是SLK的首创，将敞篷车的舒适性提升到一个新的高度。『SL63 AMG』

● SL63 AMG
SL63 AMG，输出525马力，百公里加速4.6秒，最快时速可达250公里。虽然SL63 AMG一直没有引进，但我们对它并不陌生：它是世界上唯一能走在一级方式赛车前面的车，既2008赛季后，2009赛季SL63 AMG还将继续担任F1的安全车。4月17日-19号上海站结束之后，在紧接其后的20号车展上会不会来一个近距离接触也未尝可知，但非常有可能。

『C63 AMG』

● C63 AMG

C63 AMG上海车展后很快就会引入中国市场。一旦引入，输出457马力，百公里加速4.5秒，最快时速可达250公里的C63 AMG 将成为M3的有力竞争对手。

● 迈巴赫齐柏林亚洲首次亮相

梅赛德斯-奔驰旗下超豪华品牌迈巴赫推出的新款迈巴赫齐柏林车型，将隆重亮相上海车展，这是此款新车型在亚洲首次亮相。据悉，这款称雄超豪车市场的巅峰力作将在全球限量发售100台，而且很有可能成为上海车展上身价最高的超豪华轿车。

Hurokono gallery 迈巴赫配备了专门为新款迈巴赫齐柏林打造的Mercedes-AMG V12引擎，迈巴赫57齐柏林百公里加速时间仅为4.9秒；而迈巴赫62齐柏林的百公里加速时间仅为5.1秒，不愧是史上最强迈巴赫车型。



新款迈巴赫齐柏林处处可见对传统技术的突破，尤其是采用珍稀石材作为内饰配件的原材料，然而选取石材做内饰，在工艺上有很大难度。工程师和设计师必须采取非常规的方法，把坚硬的石材打造成薄如蝉翼“曲石”，还要通过严格的安全测试。此次采用的印度星河花岗岩呈深黑色，这种天然发亮的长石和周围隐约闪烁的三维水晶相映衬，装饰效果非常奇特。