Ferrari 599 GTB HY-KERS Concept, 2010

 

Ferrari 599 GTB HY-KERS Concept, 2010

Ferrari at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show gives the public its first glimpse of the HY-KERS vettura laboratorio which can reduce CO2 emissions by 35 per cent on the combined cycle (ECE + EUDC). The HY-KERS is based on the 599 GTB Fiorano but importantly, the technology may one day be fitted to all future Ferraris, 8- and 12-cylinders alike, regardless of their engine position. Thanks to ongoing research combined with experience gained in Formula 1, the new technology developed at Maranello actually accentuates the cars' sporty character and driving involvement.

One of the principle objectives of the project is ensuring that Ferrari will be in a position to comply with future CO2 emissions standards, particularly in terms of the urban cycle. City driving is traditionally where sports cars are most penalised as their engines are designed for maximum efficiency and performance at high revs, whereas the urban cycle involves low revs and low engine loads.

There are many original aspects to the new Ferrari hybrid transmission, starting with its architecture. Firstly, weight distribution has not been altered. This is thanks to positioning the batteries below the floorpan of the car, and the use of a compact electric motor coupled to the rear of the F1 dual-clutch gearbox. Not only does this layout not affect dynamic performance, it actually improves it, by lowering the centre of gravity. Cockpit room and luggage space are also unaffected.

Maranello's engineers also employed Ferrari's track experience in the design, engineering and manufacture of this innovative electric motor which produces over 100 hp. The algorithms and control logics controlling the torque, traction and braking distribution functions are directly derived from Formula 1.

The solution adopted for the HY-KERS represents just one of the possible technologies for the future, but in the meantime Ferrari continues to evolve its models and increase their overall efficiency. Thus research continues into reducing drag, improving rolling resistance of tyres and lowering weight as well as working on reducing engine friction to increase efficiency.

Ferrari's research into reducing energy consumption has not been focused merely on its cars but also extends to the various production methods employed throughout the Maranello factory where the entire manufacturing process is carried out, from the foundry to the final assembly. In the course of 2010, Ferrari will cut CO2 emissions by 30,000 tons (-40 per cent) and Particulate Matter (PM) levels by 65 per cent. This will be achieved thanks to the company's photovoltaic system and Italy's largest trigeneration plant (which produces electricity, hot and cold water), making Ferrari entirely self-sufficient from an energy point of view. This reduction also means that Ferrari will meet the Kyoto protocol objectives a full 10 years ahead of schedule and with double the figure imposed on Europe.

Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano HGTE, 2010

 

 

 

Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano HGTE, 2010

When it first debuted, the Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano set a new standard in terms of performance that remains a benchmark for new sports car development to this day. Now Ferrari is introducing the new Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano HGTE (Handling Gran Turismo Evoluzione) package for the model to further underscore its sportiness and handling.

The package includes a modified set-up with stiffer springs and rear anti-roll bar as well as new calibration settings for the magnetorheological shock absorbers when the manettino is at its sportier settings. The ride height has also been lowered which in turn lowers the car's centre of gravity. This combined with the new set-up helps improve body control. The package also includes specifically optimised tyres featuring a compound that offers even better grip.

The car's electronics have also evolved to ensure even more prompt response to driver commands. The F1 gearbox's shifts are now even faster in high-performance settings, while a new engine software strategy has improved accelerator response.

The exhaust silencer has also been modified with the result producing an even more marked and thrilling sound under hard usage whilst still delivering just the right comfort levels at cruising speed.

The 20" split-rim wheels are new with a special diamond-cut and matte silver finish. The rear diffuser is finished in matte black to underscore the car's new set-up and highlight the chromed tail pipes. The cabin is sportier too thanks to a sophisticated mix of full-grain leather, black Alcantara and carbon-fibre trim.

The new seats are trimmed in a new two-tone combination of leather with black Alcantara inserts, and the seat backs are trimmed entirely in carbon-fibre. Embroidered in contrasting stitching on the headrest are a Prancing Horse and the words "Handling GTE".

Chevrolet Corvette Z06 Carbon Limited Edition, 2011

 

Chevrolet Corvette Z06 Carbon Limited Edition, 2011

When the 2006 Corvette Z06 was introduced, it represented the closest connection to the Corvette race cars ever. The 2009 Corvette ZR1 closed the gap between racing and production even further. In 2010, Corvette continues its tradition of track-to-street technology transfer with the 2011 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 Carbon Limited Edition.

The Chevrolet Corvette Z06 Carbon Limited Edition is another example of the expanded Corvette line-up. Five years ago, customers had the choice of a Corvette coupe or convertible. With the addition of the Z06, Grand Sport coupe and convertible and ZR1, Corvette enthusiasts now have more choices than ever.

This limited edition Z06 will boast Brembo carbon ceramic brakes with specific dark gray metallic calipers. These powerful brakes were first introduced on the ZR1. Black 20-spoke 19-inch front/20-inch rear wheels complement the car's Michelin PS2 tires. Other mechanical features include Magnetic Selective Ride Control for the first time on the Z06 and enhanced cooling. The car also features a special carbon pattern engine cover.

The Chevrolet Corvette Z06 Carbon Limited Edition will be available in two colors: Inferno Orange and the all-new Supersonic Blue. Black headlamps and mirrors, a ZR1-style body color spoiler, body color door handles, carbon fiber raised hood, and black carbon fiber rockers and splitter enhance the Z06's dynamic design and reduce mass and aerodynamic lift. For track events, customers can also install the Euro-styled racing numbers that come with each car.

The Chevrolet Corvette Z06 Carbon Limited Edition's ebony leather and suede interior is complemented by blue or orange seat stitching to match the exterior color chosen. Other features include a unique steering wheel emblem, sill plate and logoed headrest. The suede used on the steering wheel, shifter, seat inserts, armrests and doors add to the luxury of this limited edition Z06.

An optional Z07 performance package that includes the mechanical upgrades introduced on the Chevrolet Corvette Z06 Carbon Limited Edition can be added to a regular 2011 Z06. This package also includes Competition Gray 20-spoke wheels and all the chassis and cooling upgrades.

The CFZ Z06 carbon fiber package includes black carbon fiber rockers, splitter and roof panel with the full-width body color spoiler. It can also be purchased with or without the Z07 package on regular Z06 models.

The 2011 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 Carbon Limited Edition, as well as the new Z07 and CFZ Z06 option packages will be available in late summer of 2010.

Chevrolet Caprice Police Patrol Vehicle, 2011

 

Chevrolet Caprice Police Patrol Vehicle, 2011

An all-new Chevrolet Caprice Police Patrol Vehicle (PPV) will join the ranks of law enforcement departments across North America in 2011. It's a modern, full-size, rear-drive sedan that will offer both V-8 and V-6 engines, as well as a host of specialized equipment and features.

Chevrolet made the announcement at the annual International Association of Chiefs of Police convention, in Denver, Colorado. The Chevrolet Caprice PPV will be available for ordering next year and will hit the streets in early 2011.

Unlike other police cars on the market, the Chevrolet Caprice PPV is not based on existing "civilian" passenger-car model sold in North America. It has been developed in key areas specifically for police duty, containing modern equipment and features:

    * Powerful 6.0L V-8 with fuel-saving Active Fuel Management technology and E85 capability delivers expected best-in-class 0-60 acceleration (sub six seconds) and top speed; a V-6 engine will also be offered, beginning in the 2012 model year
    * Optional front-seat-only side curtain air bags allows a full-width rear-seat barrier for greater officer safety
    * Two trunk-mounted batteries, with one of them dedicated to powering various police equipment
    * Designed for five-passenger seating, meaning the upper-center section of the dashboard can be used for equipment mounting without the concern of air bag deployment interference
    * Compatibility with in-dash touch-screen computer technology
    * Special front seats designed for the long-term comfort of officers whose car is their effective office, including space that accommodates the bulk of a typical equipment belt

Chevrolet Caprice Police Patrol Vehicle

The front seats are sculpted to "pocket" the equipment belt, which greatly increases the comfort for a great range of police officer sizes. The foam density of the seatback and cushion insert surfaces are designed to conform to the shape of an equipment belt's various items, too, allowing the officer's back to rest properly on the seatback surface.

Along with comfort, the materials used in the seats were also carefully selected. High-wear materials were chosen to stand up to long hours of everyday use, while breathability, long-term durability and ease of cleaning were also important criteria.

Engineers worked on several iterations of the seat, testing a couple of versions in the field to get real-world feedback from police officers, who used prototype seats in their cruisers for a month. Their input helped determine the final design.

Class-leading space
The Chevrolet Caprice PPV is based on GM's global rear-drive family of vehicles that also underpins the Chevy Camaro. It uses the longest wheelbase of the architecture - 118.5 inches (3,010 mm) - along with a four-wheel independent suspension that delivers responsive high-performance driving characteristics that are crucial in some police scenarios.

Chevrolet Caprice Police Patrol Vehicle's long wheelbase also contributes to exceptional spaciousness. Compared to the primary competition, its advantages include:

    * A larger interior volume - 112 cubic feet / 3,172 liters - than the Ford Crown Victoria, including nearly 4 inches (101 mm) more rear legroom
    * The barrier between the front seat and rear seat is positioned farther rearward, allowing for full front-seat travel and greater recline for officer comfort
    * At 18 cubic feet (535 liters) free space (beyond battery located in trunk), the Caprice's trunk volume is large enough to accommodate a full-size spare tire under a flat load surface in the trunk storage area.

The Chevrolet Caprice's 6.0-liter V-8 is rated at an estimated 355 horsepower (265 kW) with an estimated 384 lb-ft of torque. It is backed by a six-speed automatic transmission that is performance-calibrated for police duty. Additional, police car-specific powertrain and vehicle system features include:

    * High-output alternator
    * Engine oil, transmission and power steering coolers
    * Standard 18-inch steel wheels with bolt-on center caps
    * Large, four-wheel disc brakes with heavy-duty brake pads
    * Heavy-duty suspension components
    * Police-calibrated stability control system
    * Driver information center in the instrument cluster with selectable speed tracking feature.

A host of complementary features are also offered, including special equipment packages such as spotlights; lockouts for the power windows and locks; and an "undercover" street-appearance package (9C3).

To enable more room for interior equipment, the standard radio can be relocated to the trunk, allowing for an in-dash, touch-screen computer to be used.

Chevrolet Caprice on patrol: A brief history
Chevrolet's history with law enforcement is almost as old as the brand itself. Police departments have used Chevy sedans as police cars for decades, ordering them with basic equipment and powerful V-8 engines - including some special engines that weren't available in regular-production models, such as the 1959 Biscayne that was offered with up to 315 horsepower.

The full-size Chevrolets joined the force in 1976. All Chevrolet Caprice police cars - including the new, 2011 model - have carried the 9C1 order code. Here's a quick look back at Chevys on patrol:

    * 1959 - Chevy Biscayne police model capable of 135 mph with specially tuned, police-only version of the 348-cubic-inch V-8 engine
    * 1965 - The new "big-block" 396 engine is offered in Biscayne and Bel Air police cars, making them among the most powerful on patrol; a 427 V-8 was added in 1966
    * 1976 - The 9C1 order code is given for the first time to a full-size Chevy police car package. It carries the Impala name.
    * 1977 - The full-size Chevy is downsized. The 9C1 police package is retained, as is the Impala name.
    * 1986 - The Caprice name replaces Impala, as the car is updated for the mid- and late-1980s - including the option of a powerful, 5.7-liter small-block V-8.
    * 1991 - A new-generation Caprice is launched, with the 9C1 police car still on the beat.
    * 1994 - The 260-horsepower (194 Nm) LT1 V-8 engine is offered in the Caprice 9C1, making it one of the fastest full-size police cars ever offered.
    * 1996 - Caprice police car production ends, as GM's full-size, body-on-frame car architecture is discontinued.
    * 2011 - The Chevrolet Caprice Police Patrol Vehicle returns to active duty.