In what looks to be one of Mazda’s biggest domestic vehicle recalls, the Japanese car manufacture announced that 287,987 Demio and Verisa models produced between June 2002 and July 2006 are to be recalled due to defect clutch systems and coil springs in suspensions. According to Mazda spokeswoman Aya Takahashi, this is the firm’s largest domestic recall since data started being monitored in 1994. Mazda previous "record" was for 162,405 vehicles in March 2004. Additionally, apart from the 287,987 Demios & Verisas sold in Japan, another 25,559 Demios sold in overseas markets as Mazda2 were are also affected. From these 20,850 went to Australia, 1,166 to New Zealand, 1,147 to Singapore and 262 to Hong Kong. Via: detnews

Technorati: Mazda, Mazda+Demio, Mazda+Verisa, Carscoop, blogs, automotive, vehicles

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I’m sure most of you will have heard about Google Maps newest feature dubbed Street View. However, if you haven’t, concisely, the feature that is available for select cities allows you to view street-level panoramic photography as you browse around a map location –call it a virtual tour right behind your PC. It’s really cool and we’ve spent many hours mucking around with it –we still haven’t discovered any household nudity scenes though…

But seriously now, from what we learnt, to make Street View happen Google licensed data from companies like Immersive Media and others along with doing some work of their own. In the case of Immersive Media, the tech company uses a bunch of VW Beetles equipped with a roof mounted, high-definition camera. The camera head is one unified camera system made up of 11 lenses and sensors configured according to a dodecahedron. The 11 video streams build up maximum resolution using over 100 million pixels per second. Via: Motorpassion , Source: Immersivemedia

Technorati: Google, Google+Maps, Carscoop, blogs, automotive, vehicles

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A 52-year-old woman in Dusseldorf, Germany, stunned commuters at the Nordstrasse subway station when she drove her Volkswagen Beetle Cabriolet right into the entrance as she accidentally mistook it for an underground car park. In all her stupidity and recklessness, the 52-year-old was extremely lucky not to hurt anyone -at least not this time... Via: BBC

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Available for the first time in the X5, BMW’s M Package prime objective is to give the Bavarian luxury SUV a sportier look. If you’re accustomed to other BMW M Sport Pack’s like the one in the latest 3-Series for example, this one won’t quite live up to your expectations -at least in terms of exterior appearance.

See, basically, what BMW calls an M Sport Pack in the X5 is body colored moldings and smoked light-clusters combined with 19-inch or 20-inch rims. Of course you also get a pack of other goodies like M leather steering wheel & gear knob, aluminum accents and sport seats inside as well as a sport suspension set up, but what’s an M Sport Package if it looks like you took it over to Joey’s place and painted it? There’s no English press release for the time being but we’ll add it as soon as the Bavarian’s discover that we don’t all talk German. -Continued: Click “Read More…” below for a high-res gallery along with the price list

PRICE LIST IN GERMANY

• BMW X5 3.0si: €6.350 / $8.521
• BMW X5 3.0d: €6.350 / $8.521
• BMW X5 4.8i: €4.840 / $6.495

Technorati: BMW, BMW+X5, M+Sport, Carscoop, cars, autos, vehicles

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MINI has expanded its roof-decal options through the launch of a new tool on its web-site that allows you to put your own personal stamp on your MINI – by creating a customised roof. Until now, apart from the two-tone versions, if you wanted to add a little personal touch to your MINI you could only choose through a variety of pre-made decals. We visited MINI’s newly launched “Roof Designer” site and took a shot at it -a quick and completely unsuccessful try as you can see from the screen image (…).

Admittedly, it’s easy; you pick a version with/without a sunroof, choose the body and roof colour and then you’re taken to the drawing board. There, apart from choosing between a heap of graphics and backgrounds you can also write or draw something on your MINI’s roof. Once finished you can either order your customized MINI or add it to the community gallery. If our translation of the German only press release is correct, while everyone can design and upload their customized MINI on the community gallery, orders are available only in Italy for the time being. Germany will follow in June, Austria in the third quarter of the year, with further countries being added to the list at a latter date. Link: Mini site

Technorati: MINI, Cooper, Carscoop, cars, autos, vehicles

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Just as we thought Autodelta was going to chill out after the presentation of the 405Hp Alfa GT Super a couple of weeks ago, Alfa’s UK based partner announced that it’s updating the 147 GTA AM 3.7 Super with a more powerful version of the 3.7-litre supercharged V6. The car’s maximum power is up to 422 bhp at 7,000 rpm (from 400Hp ) and torque improved to 520 Nm.

Autodelta hasn’t given out any official performance figures yet, but just to get an idea, the current 400Hp 147 GTA AM Super has a top speed in excess of 180 mph (288 km/h) and 0-60 mph (0-97 km/h) time of 4.8 seconds. We’ll have more on Autodelta’s 147 GT AM Super after its official presentation at the Spa-Francorchamps Grand Prix circuit in Belgium this coming weekend (2-3 June). -Full Press release and high-res gallery after the jump

Via: Autoblog.it , Source: Autodelta

Autodelta to present 422 bhp 147 GTA AM 3.7 Super at SpaItalia this weekend

Autodelta is pleased to announce that it will be present with a comprehensive line up of its high-performance bespoke Alfa Romeo models at SpaItalia this coming weekend (2-3 June) at the famous Spa-Francorchamps Grand Prix circuit in Belgium. Attending this edition of SpaItalia is made even more special, this year Autodelta is celebrating its 20th anniversary as the leading engineering centre for developing the ultimate road-going Alfa Romeo high-performance cars.

Leading out the exclusive Autodelta model range at SpaItalia will be a first official showing for our most powerful interpretation of the Alfa 147 GTA theme yet: the 422 bhp Autodelta 147 GTA AM 3.7 Super. This new version further builds on the impressive upgrades we have already made to the Alfa V6 engine: capacity increased to 3,750cc, a remapped management system, and a Ferrari-derived throttle body, coupled to the fitting of a Rotrex C38-81 supercharger delivering 0.75 bar of boost; now all taken to a new even higher level - bringing the car’s maximum power up to 422 bhp at 7,000 rpm (standard Alfa 147 GTA power is 250bhp at 6,200 rpm) and torque improved to 520 Nm.

Autodelta created its first 3.7-litre supercharged Alfa 147 GTA conversion exactly two years ago, the car making its preview appearance on the inaugural ‘Autodelta European Tour’ of 2005. The arrival of this dramatic package, which initially had 400 bhp, created much attention and it was requested by a number of customers.

To perfect this package fully and develop a highly dynamic chassis capable of delivering all this performance and still offer optimum day-to-day driveability, our engineering team has embarked on an intensive development programme over the last six months that has also seen our test cars in track action conducting extensive R&D programmes of major race circuits including Donington Park, Silverstone and the Nürburgring. Additional work has been carried out on the Alfa V6 engine’s cylinder head, block and internals as we have perfected this package, while the upgraded suspension features new spring rates from the dedicated coilovers and revised suspension components, as well as new anti-roll bar, and wheel geometry, adjustments. Autodelta’s own in-house developed limited slip differential is an integral part. The bespoke package includes a new aerodynamic rear under wing.

We are now very pleased to introduce this full option, the Autodelta 147 GTA AM (‘Autodelta Maggiore’) 3.7 Super, as an official package available for immediate ordering. The car will be presented at SpaItalia this coming weekend and will be demonstrated on the famous 6.976-km Grand Prix circuit on both Saturday and Sunday by our test driver.

To complement the debut of the 422 bhp 3.7 litre version at the Spa circuit, which nestles in the glorious undulating hills of the Belgian Ardennes forest, we will present the 341 bhp Autodelta 147 GTA AM 3.2 Super. Also present at SpaItalia will be our most exciting new model introduction of the last year and a car that ushered in a new era at Autodelta, the 341 bhp Autodelta Brera J5 3.2 C. Previewed last summer in Monte Carlo and commercialised in February 2007 this high-performance bespoke car has created impressive worldwide demand already. Completing our current model range will be the 400bhp Autodelta 156 GTA AM 3.7 Super.

Jano Djelalian says: “SpaItalia is always an excellent event and we are especially looking forward to attending this year’s edition. We’re delighted to bring our full model range and in particular to present our most extreme project yet, the 422 bhp version of the Autodelta 147 GTA AM 3.7 Super. We always are keen to show our cars in the conditions they are designed for, so putting this car on track at Spa is the perfect official introduction.”

SpaItalia – now in its sixth edition – has quickly grown to become one of Europe’s leading Italian car extravaganzas. With the distinct ‘track’ element central to the two-day programme, the event showcases a glittering array of Italian machinery. It takes place on the evocative Spa-Francorchamps circuit. First opened in 1921, this is one of the world’s fastest and most demanding circuits, and a real test of driver ability. This year the ‘Featured Marque’ at SpaItalia is Maserati poignant as the Trident brand is celebrating the occasion of the fiftieth anniversary of Juan-Manuel Fangio’s F1 World Championship title claimed at the wheel of the legendary 250F. A highlight of the event will be the presence of Maria Teresa de Filippis the first woman to drive in an F1 Grand Prix and a lady who is synonymous with Maserati. The 2007 SpaItalia event is scheduled for Saturday and Sunday, June 2 & 3.

Technorati: Alfa+Romeo+147+GTA, Autodelta, Carscoop, cars, autos, vehicles

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Normally, the title should have been, "Audi takes control of former VW Brussels plant saving it from closure". However, since we have a never-ending love affair with the small print we concentrated on the part of Audi’s press release that confirms the production of the A1: “With the plant currently undergoing restructuring, the production volume of Audi Brussels will be around 84,000 vehicles this year. From the end of 2009, the Audi A1 will be built exclusively in Brussels.”

The A1 will succeed the ill-fated, aluminum A2, competing against rival MINI Cooper and the forthcoming Alfa Romeo Junior in the premium mini sector. To keep the development and construct costs low, the A1 will have a steel body using the VW Polo / Skoda Fabia / Seat Ibiza platform. While its quite early to say something about the engine-range, we suspect that Audi will equip the A1 with 1.4TSI (122 and 140Hp) and 1.8 TSFI (170Hp) petrol engines (the later probably with an S1 badge) along with a 2.0TDI available in 140 and 170Hp versions. What is that we hear you asking; RS1 with a 200Hp 2.0TFSI? Could be… -Press Release on Audi’s Brussels plant after the jump

Technorati: Audi, Audi+A1, cars, Carscoop, cars, autos, vehicles

Press Release: Brussels now part of the Audi family:

Audi takes over management responsibility at Brussels plant

Ceremony with Belgian Prime Minister Guy Verhofstadt

New production capacity for further growth

Start of Audi A3 production with 30,000 cars a year

Production of Audi A1 from end of 2009

Audi Brussels to become important hub within Group

The Audi success story continues: following today’s ceremony at Audi Brussels, the Audi family now has a new member. With a workforce of around 2,200, the Brussels plant is to be integrated into the Audi production network. “We are putting the plant into good and safe hands,” said Prof. Dr. Martin Winterkorn, Chairman of the Board of Management of Volkswagen AG and Chairman of the Supervisory Board of AUDI AG. For Audi, the new plant is one of the requirements for achieving its strategic goal of building 1.5 million cars a year by 2015. Moreover, the production “turntable” between Ingolstadt and Brussels will open up the possibility for further increasing flexibility between the two plants.

In the presence of the Belgian Prime Minister Guy Verhofstadt, the Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Volkswagen AG, Prof. Dr. Ferdinand K. Piëch, the Chairman of the Board of Management of Volkswagen AG, Prof. Dr. Martin Winterkorn, the Chairman of the Board of Management of AUDI AG, Rupert Stadler, together with the Supervisory Board and the management of AUDI BRUSSELS S.A./N.V., the starting signal was given for the production of the Audi A3 Sportback and the “Four Rings” of Audi were symbolically unveiled. Three Audi A3 models in the colours of the Belgian flag – black, yellow and red – were presented on stage. The event’s guests of honour and speakers included Dr. Horst Neumann, Board Member for Human Resources and Director of Personnel at Volkswagen AG, Michael Riffel, Secretary-General of the European and World Group Works Council of Volkswagen AG, other representatives of the Volkswagen and Audi Boards of Management, the Audi Works Council and representatives of Belgian trade unions and politicians, including Members of the European Parliament.

With the plant currently undergoing restructuring, the production volume of Audi Brussels will be around 84,000 vehicles this year. From the end of 2009, the Audi A1 will be built exclusively in Brussels. “We are delighted to be able to add to our capacity in the Group thanks to the Brussels plant and a motivated team. We want to develop Audi Brussels into a benchmark within the Volkswagen Group with regard to production processes and productivity,” explains Audi Chairman Rupert Stadler.

Today’s assumption of management responsibility for the Brussels plant will also see the introduction of the successful Audi Production System. Continuous improvement processes, for example, which will permanently increase the economic efficiency of the plant, can be set in motion. “The Brussels plant is on the way up again. We can rely on the workforce’s outstanding qualifications,” explained Dr. Werner Widuckel, Board Member for Human Resources at AUDI AG and Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Audi Brussels.

The framework conditions for a new collective agreement are laid down in a letter of intent, which was signed by the company management of AUDI AG and the Belgian trade unions on 12th March in Ingolstadt. Along with a 20 percent reduction in labour costs by 2009, these include a guarantee of jobs until 2010, flexible working hours on the basis of working time accounts, an income guarantee, a share in company profits, innovative work organisation, a more attractive workplace, through preventative health management for example, and training for the workforce. Widuckel: “The agreement is valid without any qualification, and will be implemented in every respect."

Negotiations for the collective agreement should be completed by the end of June. More than 76 percent of the workforce already voted in favour of the procedure in a referendum in March. “A clear verdict,” according to Alfons Dintner, spokesman of the Audi Brussels management. “The Brussels plant is determined to emerge from the restructuring process stronger and with a secure future ahead of it.” A further advantage is that Audi has already built the Audi A3 successfully at the Brussels plant between autumn 2004 and the end of 2005 and is therefore “best equipped for the new Audi era,” says Dintner.

Peter Mosch, Chairman of the General Works Council of AUDI AG, also sees the agreement as promising: “We are looking to the future in a positive frame of mind. The General Works Council and Audi’s employees are confident of rising to the forthcoming challenges. We know and have respect for our new colleagues in Brussels. Together, we now aim to continue to take Audi forward and achieve the targets we are striving for: growth and job security.”

The Brussels plant fits perfectly into Audi’s turntable concept. Producing volume models in two locations – such as the Audi A3 Sportback in Ingolstadt and Brussels – enables the company to respond flexibly to fluctuations in demand. This ensures a constant level of capacity utilisation at the plants and enables jobs to be protected in the long term. “Following complete restructuring, this production plant will have the potential to play a leading role in the car industry,” says Audi Board Member for Production, Frank Dreves.

In the 2006 financial year, Audi achieved record figures for production, vehicle sales, revenue and profit before tax. This trend continued in the first third of 2007. Worldwide vehicle sales rose by 9.4 percent to 332,900 units in the period January to April. Audi recently published a quarterly report on its revenue and profit for the first time. Compared with the same quarter of last year, the sales revenue of the Audi Group increased by 13.4 percent to EUR 8,679 (7,654) million. The operating result rose from EUR 350 to 401 million, an increase of 14.6 percent.

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Rotar powered engines isn’t the only abandoned by others technology that Mazda continues to invest in. The Japanese firm also believes in the Miller-cycle tech developing a brand-new, naturally aspirated MZR 1.3-liter Miller-cycle engine for the 2008 Demio (known as the Mazda2 in overseas markets) when it goes on sale in Japan in July 2007. According to Mazda, the Miller-cycle engine powered Demio will be combined the firm’s first continuously variable transmission (CVT), achieving an avg. fuel consumption figure of 4.3 liters/100 -54.7 mpg (US). That’s a 20% improvement over the 5.2 liters/100 km - 45.2 mpg rating of the current model. As you can see in the press release that follows, Mazda hasn’t given out any power or performance figures.

But what exactly is a Miller-cycle engine? First of all, the name for the Miller-cycle engine was invented by an American engineer, Ralph Miller who patented his version of the forced induction Otto-cycle petrol engine in the 1940s. A traditional Otto cycle petrol engine uses four "strokes", of which two can be considered "high power" – the compression stroke (high power consumption) and power stroke (high power production). In the Miller cycle, the intake valve is left open longer than it would be in an Otto cycle engine. In effect, the compression stroke is two discrete cycles: the initial portion when the intake valve is open and final portion when the intake valve is closed. -Continued: Click “Read More…” below

This two-stage intake stroke creates the so called "fifth" cycle that the Miller cycle introduces. As the piston initially moves upwards in what is traditionally the compression stroke, the charge is partially expelled back out the still-open intake valve. Typically this loss of charge air would result in a loss of power. However, in the Miller cycle, this is compensated for by the use of a supercharger. The supercharger typically will need to be of the positive displacement type due its ability to produce boost at relatively low engine speeds. Otherwise, low-rpm torque will suffer. That does raise a few questions on the Demio’s naturally aspirated 1.3-liter Miller-cycle engine doesn’t it? (Miller-cycle engine info via: Wikipedia)

Technorati: Mazda, Mazda+Demio, Mazda2, cars, Carscoop, cars, autos, vehicles

PRESS RELEASE: Mazda Develops New Naturally-Aspirated MZR 1.3L Miller-cycle Engine

- The new MZR 1.3L engine powers the all-new Mazda Demio to achieve a fuel economy of 23.0 km/L and qualify for Japan's Green Tax exemptions -

HIROSHIMA, Japan—Mazda Motor Corporation has developed a new, naturally aspirated MZR 1.3L Miller-cycle engine, which will power the all-new Demio (known as the all-new Mazda2 in overseas markets) when it goes on sale in Japan in July 2007. In combination with Mazda’s first continuously variable transmission (CVT), the engine will assist the new Demio to achieve a 10-15 mode fuel economy of 23.0 km/L, an improvement of approximately 20 percent over the 19.2 km/L rating of the current model.

Newly developed from the current MZR 1.3L DOHC aluminum engine, the naturally-aspirated MZR 1.3L Miller-cycle engine employs delayed closing of the intake valves in order to reduce pumping losses and improve thermal efficiency through a higher expansion ratio. Intake valve timing is optimized by the Sequential Valve Timing System to provide improved fuel efficiency over the current MZR 1.3L engine when cruising and accelerating. In conjunction with the CVT, which transfers torque at low speeds without power loss and eliminates gear-shift shock, the setup achieves excellent fuel efficiency as well as a smooth and exhilarating ride.

In addition to this new, highly efficient powertrain, the all-new Demio has been made approximately 100 kg lighter than its predecessor through weight reduction techniques, which have resulted in nimble handling and significantly improved fuel economy.

The Demio model with the naturally aspirated MZR 1.3L Miller-cycle engine combined with the CVT transmission achieves a fuel economy that is rated as 20 percent or better than the level specified by Japan’s 2010 fuel economy standards. Exhaust emissions are also at least 75 percent lower than 2005 standards, which conforms to Japan’s Super Ultra-Low Emissions Vehicle (SU-LEV) standard and qualifies the Demio for Green Tax exemptions.

Through its Sustainable Zoom-Zoom plan that was announced in March 2007, Mazda declared its intention to pursue the harmony felt between driving pleasure and environmental and safety features, and its quest for an advanced Zoom-Zoom world. This includes the ongoing desire to create captivating design, to provide our customers with continual driving pleasure and to develop improved safety and environmental technologies.

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Here’s an interesting proposition for the next generation Ford Focus; a coupe look for the 3door version. But wait, hasn’t Ford already done this? Well, maybe in the US with the redesigned 2008 US Focus, but not in Europe. US Focus similarities aside, we kinda dig Infomotori’s idea (but not the execution), for a coupe-like replacement for the third generation Focus 3d hatch. Although Infomotori suggests that the new Focus is due for a 2008 presentation, we doubt that Ford will change a model four years after its initial debut (2004 Paris Show). Keep in mind that the previous Focus stayed in production for 6 years, so a 2009/2010 date sounds more reasonable to us. Via: Infomotori

Technorati: Ford, Ford+Focus, Carscoop, blogs, automotive, vehicles

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Without doubt, one of the best TV ads we’ve seen. Amazing how ad agency DBB London, managed to create a car advert that stimulated our “driving emotions” without actually showing much of the VW Golf. The dark city scenery is combined with Richard Burton's ominous radio delivery of Dylan Thomas’s play, “Under Milk Wood” which perfectly accentuates directors Noam Murro's breathtaking VW Golf spot. Just makes you want to stay awake till “all the people of the lulled and dumbfound town are sleeping” and take your car for a ride, doesn’t it… Via: Autoblog.com

"And all the people of the lulled and dumbfound town are sleeping now.

Hush, the babies are sleeping, the farmers, the fishers, the tradesmen and pensioners, cobbler, schoolteacher, postman and publican, the undertaker and the fancy woman, drunkard, dressmaker, preacher, policeman, the webfoot cocklewomen and the tidy wives.

Young girls lie bedded soft or glide in their dreams, with rings and trousseaux, bridesmaided by glow-worms down the aisles of the organplaying wood.... You can hear the dew falling, and the hushed town breathing.

Only your eyes are unclosed to see the black and folded town fast, and slow, asleep..."

"Under Milk Wood", 1954 by Dylan Thomas

Technorati: VW, VW+Golf, Ad, Carscoop, blogs, automotive, vehicles

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Approximately five days (June 4, 2007) before Renault lifts the cover off its 2008 Laguna Sedan (5door) and Station Wagon and we discovered the first unmasked pictures of both versions. As expected, no surprises in terms of the Laguna’s exterior design, which isn’t much of a departure from the current version’s appearance. The only completely new thing we’re seeing here is the Laguna’s front end that’s inspired from the 2006 Paris Show Nepta Concept. Judging from these photos, we’d say Renault had better have some aces hidden under that lacklustre appearance if it seriously wants to lure customers away from rival models like the VW Passat and Ford Mondeo. For the interior pics along with the initial press release click here -Continued: Click "Read More.." for the 2008 Laguna Sedan image

Technorati: Renault+Laguna, Carscoop, blogs, automotive, vehicles

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Wow, check out that cool concept”. How many times have you said those words? Obviously as many times as, “how did the hell did they manage to …uck it up”, once you saw the production version. And from the looks of things, that’s going to be the case with the production version of Ford’s 2006 Paris Show study, the Iosis-X that’ll aim at rivals like the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V. Before you say that’s just a rendering from Autoexpress (left pic)), check out the camouflaged image of Ford’s upcoming compact crossover caught by Autozeitung (right pic). Compare the CGI with the actual spy pic and you’ll discover that Autoexpress folks did an impressively accurate job. Compare both with the Iosis-X concept and you’ll see a lost chance from Ford’s behalf. -Continued: Click "Read More..." below

Key phrase here is “retaining the Iosis-X’s design cues”. Remember that cause you’re definitely going be hearing a lot of it when the X-MAX or whatever its name’s is, goes on sale in 2008. Letdown aesthetics aside, the X-MAX (well call it X-MAX for the sake of the conversation) will be loosely based on the Ford Focus/ Volvo S40-V50/ Mazda3 platform and it will be most probably be offered in 2WD and 4WD versions. The latter will use Volvo’s simpler 4wheel-drive system rather than the complex 4WD system from the more expensive Freelander 2. While Autoexpress claims that it’ll be fitted with the same engine range as the current Focus, inside tipsters have told us it’ll feature a new array of motors that’ll also equip the facelifted Focus (premier in Frankfurt this September).

Pics Via: Autoexpress & Autozeitung

Technorati: Ford+X-MAX, Ford+Iosis-X, Ford, SUV, Carscoop, blogs, automotive, vehicles

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Long time, no see… Of course we’re referring to the absence of replicas from Carscoop the past few days but we guess the "Miata Z9" more than compensates. Found on eBay, this “one of a kind vehicle” as its seller describes it, is an 1994 Mazda MX-5 / Miata cross dressed (with a bit of imagination) as a BMW Z9 Convertible; a concept first seen at the 2000 Paris Show… and quickly forgotten by BMW fans.

Despite the bimmer engine cover, the Miata Z9 retains the factory 1.8-litre motor. Talking about fake parts, the Side exhausts are also just for looks. The seller’s original plan though was to connect the side exhausts but this has not been completed. The current asking price on eBay is $1.500. Since this is an unfinished project, if by chance, anyone of our readers acquires the “Bangled-up” Miata X9 car and completes it, please, please send us some pics! -Click "Read More…" for a detailed Image-gallery along with the vehicle's description

Technorati: Mazda, Mazda+MX-5, Miata, BMW, ebay, Replica, BMW+Z9, cars, Carscoop, cars, autos, vehicles

Vehicle Description

TITLE: Z9 Replica Kit Car Concept

This is a rare opportunity to get a one of a kind vehicle. Bid now before it’s gone!

You are looking at a one of a kind vehicle. This is a replica of a “2000 Convertible Concept Car” GERMAN inspired vehicle that never made it to production. This car gets compliments every time someone sees it.

Construction: The car is constructed out of fiberglass and aluminum, but mainly fiberglass. This unique car is built on a 1994 Mazda Miata Chassis with a CLEAR TITLE. The kit was purchased from ExoticRebodies in 2001.

Drive Train: The engine is the factory 1.8 Liter 16 valve Dual Over Head Cam. The engine runs good and uses Mobile 1 synthetic oil. There is a custom engine cover that is mounted on the motor. The 5 speed manual transmission shifts smoothly. This car has about 155,000 miles on the chassis and drive train. There is has a custom Engine cover mounted on the motor.

This vehicle comes with the 18" Konig rims. Functionality: This car has power windows Cold A/C All lights are working. The trunk works and opens wide. Both doors open. The hood opens wide for easy maintenance. 4 wheel disk brakes.

A lot of work was done to make sure that all the body lines were straight. Check out the door, hood and trunk gaps.

All pictures are recent and were taken a few days ago.

WORK THAT NEEDS TO BE DONE: Body work needs to be completed. (Some parts on the car are still rough.) The car needs a paint job. Convertible top needs to be repaired. Power windows need to be greased. (They work, but move a little slow). All emblems. Needs Side Mirrors. Door window moldings need replacement. Glove box handle needs to be replaced.

What you see in the pictures is what you get. We are not trying to scam anyone, this is a project car. We encourage you to come and take a look at this vehicle before bidding. This vehicle is located in Jacksonville, FLORIDA.

Via: ebay

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"Ford Motor Company is not in discussions with BMW or any other company regarding an interest in the Volvo Car Corporation. We have seen this kind of speculation for the past year, as Ford Motor Company has been assessing our operations and portfolio -- as any good business does and we will continue to do."

A Ford spokesman issued this denial statement following several media reports that BMW was in talks with FoMoCo aiming at a sale of Volvo. The rumors started out from an article posted on Autocar magazine a few weeks ago and climaxed last week with reports from Swedish newspaper Goteborgs Posten and the Financial Times.

Theoretically and according to Merrill Lynch analyst John Murphy, Ford could raise around $8 billion for Volvo which is FoMoCo’s strongest asset in the PAG Group after the sale of Aston Martin for $925 million back in March, 2007. Comparatively, Murphy estimated that a combined sale of both could bring back to Ford around $1.3 billion to $1.5 billion. So, is it a case of “where there’s smoke, there’s fire” or simply a case of creative imagination on the behalf of journos? Guess we wont find out... Via: Reuters

Technorati: Ford, BMW, Volvo, cars, Carscoop, cars, autos, vehicles

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Nop, there’s no larger twin-turbos or chip swaps here, just an exterior body-kit consisting of front/rear spoilers, side skirts, tailpipes and 19-inch rims in 245/30R20 and 295/25R20 tyres or 20-inch in 225/35R19 and 255/30R19 rubber. And oh yeah, that red “Turbo” logo on the bimmer’s butt. Jeez, the last time I saw one of those it must have been on a Zastava… That aside and while aesthetic criteria’s are somewhat subjective, to be honest, we can’t help but preferring BMW’s own individual (without the boot spoiler) or "M" styling packs for the 3-Series Convertible.

As for horsepower lovers, AC Schnitzer hasn’t forgotten you since the German tuner announced that it is currently developing a performance kit for the twin-turbo 3.0-liter straight six that packs 306 HP/225 kW. Via: Autoblog.it -Press Release and images after the jump

Technorati: BMW, BMW+335i+Convertible, BMW+3-Series, AC+Schnitzer, cars, Carscoop, cars, autos, vehicles

AC Schnitzer ACS3 3.5i Convertible

A Convertible provides the ultimate for the senses: Where can you experience driving more directly than in an open car, with the wind gently emphasising the acceleration, the acoustic muscle play of the engine teasing your ears, and a breathtaking silhouette reflected in every shop window. The new BMW 3-series Convertible, a complete car with folding hard top, stimulates the automotive pleasure centre without setting reason aside. When you've had one taste, you soon long for more - for example the ACS3 3.5i Convertible.

In designing the bodykit, the objective for AC Schnitzer was not to hide the body contours under excessive bulges, but to emphasise the natural characteristics of the vehicle in a structured way. So the front skirt, which simultaneously increases downforce, in its basic design follows the three-piece original but it is substantially softer, more facetted and more energetic. Like the AC Schnitzer side skirts which aesthetically highlight the side crease of the Convertible body and with their asymmetric lines, rising towards the back, emphasise the sporting abilities of the vehicle even when stopped. Its charm is enhanced with the clearly marked AC Schnitzer Racing rims type IV in silver, which at the front measure 9.0Jx20" and at the rear 10.0Jx20" (tyres 245/30R20 and 295/25R20). As an alternative, the dark Type IV BiColor wheels in 8.5Jx19" at the front and 9.5Jx19" at the rear give the BMW a hint of Badboy (tyres 225/35R19 and 255/30R19).

Although the classic rear view of the new 3-series Convertible is already eyecatching, the AC Schnitzer design language with its more strongly contoured rear skirt expresses extra sporting ambitions with no loss of credibility or coherence. The twin flow left/right tailpipes of the AC Schnitzer exhaust contribute to the neat overall impression not just visually but, with the gas pedal pressed, also acoustically with a unique crescendo. The twin sports rear silencer is enhanced by tailpipe trims in "Racing" design, which visually suggest a stylised horizontal figure eight, the mathematical symbol for "infinity".

A reference to the enormous power reserves of the vehicle, expressed above all in the superb BMW six cylinder twin turbo, a power plant which has been praised unanimously by the trade press, and which with its 306 HP/225 kW has caused worries for many competitors. The duel would be even more difficult for them with the AC Schnitzer performance kit which is currently in development. The 335d will also soon undergo a power make-over at Aachen. For the Convertible with the 3.0 litre diesel (standard 231 HP/170 kW) the tuners already offer a superb Power-Plus pack that increases the power to 265 HP/195 kW. Power reserves which the chassis can handle easily thanks to fine tuning by AC Schnitzer.

A special antiroll bar kit for the rear axle is already available, and the complete suspension with race technology is just completing its final test laps on the Nürburgring. A multipiece AC Schnitzer alloy strut brace divides asymmetric forces evenly over the entire front of the car and provides not only a purely functional aspect but a high level of unobtrusive aesthetics. An image which can naturally also be expected in the interior, where high quality decor and controls give the driver the visual and tactile impression of driving a true AC Schnitzer at every moment.

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Saying largest, don’t go thinking any outrageous numbers; in all, 43 NSX’s were brought together at last weekend’s JapFest show at Castle Combe in the UK. James Taylor, from the online-based NSX Club Britain, said: "This was our first ever stand at a large event and everyone was blown away by the sheer number of cars that turned up. Some people had traveled all the way down from Scotland and Northern Ireland to be there."

Honda’s UK arm contributed to the pack of NSXs with its own, rare version of the car; a G-plate NSX, registered in 1990, which is thought to be the second NSX ever brought to the UK. However, the specific car’s most important claim is that it was once driven by the one and only, Ayrton Senna on a visit to Honda UK. -Continued: Click “Read More…” below

FAQs

The NSX made its debut in 1990 as a genuine mid-engine sports car with an all-aluminium monocoque body – a world’s first for a production vehicle at the time. The NSX continued to evolve, with performance improvements including increased displacement, a 6-speed manual transmission, enhanced aerodynamic performance, and different tyre sizes, along with the addition of the NSX-T open-top model and the NSX-R sports model with further enhanced driving performance. One of the first true sports cars to adopt clean emissions measures, the NSX succeeded in combining exhilarating driving performance with superior environmental performance. As a result, the NSX achieved total worldwide sales of over 18,000 units during the 15 years it was in production.

The History of the NSX

• Feb. 1989 NS-X mid-engine sports car prototype introduced at the Chicago Auto Show
• Oct. 1989 NS-X exhibited at the Tokyo Motor Show
• Aug. 1990 Acura NSX went on sale in the US
• Sept. 1990 NSX went on sale in Japan
• 1991 “Owners’ Meetings”, designed to enhance driving skills, inaugurated
• Jan. 1992 Custom order interior and body colour plan introduced; its range later expanded.
• Nov. 1992 Pure sports model Type-R added to the line-up
• Feb. 1993 Minor model change (addition of passenger-side SRS airbags, other enhanced equipment)
• 1993 “Refresh Plan” introduced as premium service for maturing vehicles
• Feb. 1994 Minor model change (16/17-inch aluminium wheels, reinforced brake pads)
• Mar. 1995 Minor model change (Drive-By-Wire electronic control, F-Matic manual-feel automatic transmission, open-top Type-T added to line-up)
• Feb. 1997 Minor model change (3.2-litre manual transmission model, 6-speed manual transmission, introduction of Type-S)
• Sept. 1999 Minor model change (reduced exhaust emissions, enhanced equipment)
• Dec. 2001 Minor model change (exterior design changes, 17-inch tyres front and back)
• May 2002 New NSX Type-R model introduced
• Oct. 2003 Minor model change (Immobiliser, new body colours)
• Sept. 2005 Production of European model ends

Technorati: Honda, Honda+NS-X, cars, Carscoop, blogs, automotive, vehicles

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Lithium Technology Corporation (LTC), a global provider of large format rechargeable power solutions unveiled a retrofitted Toyota Prius, with plug-in capabilities that promises to deliver a whopping 125+ miles per gallon fuel efficiency, or to make that in liters, less than 1.9 l/100 km –vs 55 mpg or 4.3 l/100 km of the standard Prius (combined).

But how did LTC manage to achieve such an impressive figure? Concisely, LTC switched the Prius’ NiMH (Nickel metal hydride) batteries with a new type of lithium based batteries -lithium iron phosphate cells or LiFePO4 to be exact. Additionally, while the standard Prius’ relies on the petrol engine or the brakes to charge the batteries, LTC has added a charging system allowing charging by plugging into a standard outlet. And at what price? Well, your guess is as good as ours is since LTC avoided any money-talk. Via: AutoblogGreen -Full Press Release after the jump

Press Release: Breakthrough Technology Drives the World Forward

Lithium Technology Corporation Demonstrates Power Solutions Leadership

PLYMOUTH MEETING, Pa. (BUSINESS WIRE) Lithium Technology Corporation ("LTC") (OTC: LTHU) hosted yesterday an exposition of the Companys breadth of power solutions and unveiled a retrofitted Toyota Prius, with plug-in capabilities allowing for 125+ miles per gallon fuel efficiency, which is powered by the Company’s unique battery technology. The battery for the Prius utilizes LTC’s new product line of lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) cells, the largest cells of their kind in the world, which are considered to be the technology of choice for the American car manufacturers.

“We are delighted to demonstrate and deliver the technology that the automotive industry has been searching for today," commented Dr. Klaus Brandt, chief executive officer of LTC. “While others have estimated up to a year to deliver the technology, we are proud to show the world that we have the technology and are committed to making hybrid, plug-in hybrid and electric vehicles a reality for all consumers in the safest way.”

The 7 kWh battery comprised of 63 of LTC’s iron phosphate cells has achieved 125+ MPG. LTC’s large format technology allows for more reliable battery systems with a significantly lower number of cells. The battery management system (BMS) is more precise monitoring fewer cells, keeping them in balance for best performance and preventing damage to the battery due to over voltage, under voltage, over temperature and short circuit.

From our highways, to the depths of the ocean and up into space, LTC is powering the world in extraordinary ways. Key partners and customers joined in the event to demonstrate a range of vehicles from the automotive and military markets. Phoenix International representatives were on hand with one of the xBot Remote Operated Vehicles used on to explore the RMS TITANIC. The batteries powering the vehicles are amongst the safest lithium-ion batteries in the world for their energy density

“We are proud of our strategic partnerships which continue to afford us the opportunity to explore and develop new technologies and to break new ground,” remarks Brandt. “Through partners including Phoenix International, Penn State, Phostech and University of Delph, we have made great strides in the military and automotive markets.’

Covering the event were representatives from the Associated Press and the BBC, which later broadcasted parts of the event on their American and global networks. LTC will present at the Wall Street Analyst Forum this morning at 9am.

LTC, a global provider of large lithium-ion rechargeable power solutions has focused solely on the development and production of large format lithium-ion batteries for more than twenty years. The Company manufactures a range of cells with two different types of chemistries. Both chemistries coupled with the company’s innovative end-to-end manufacturing processes and proprietary design and assembly techniques, allow LTC to provide large high performance cells unmatched by any other product.

About Lithium Technology Corporation:

Lithium Technology Corporation (LTC) is a global provider of large format rechargeable power solutions for diverse applications, and offers the largest lithium-ion cells with the highest power of any standard commercial lithium ion cell produced in the western hemisphere. With more than 20 years of experience, LTC leverages its extensive expertise in high power and large battery assemblies to commercialize advanced lithium batteries as a new power source in the military and national security systems, transportation and stationary power markets.

LTC manufactures the GAIA product line of large, high power hermetically sealed rechargeable lithium-ion cells and batteries. The Company's product portfolio includes large cells and batteries from 10 times the capacity of a standard laptop computer battery to 100,000 times greater. LTC manufactures a variety of standard cells that are assembled into custom large batteries complete with electronics (battery management systems) and electronics to communicate with other components of the system for performance monitoring.

LTC headquarters are located in Plymouth Meeting, PA and R&D in Nordhausen, Germany. LTC sales for the U.S. and European markets are managed out of each of the offices. For more information about LTC,its technology and products, please visit http://www.lithiumtech.com

Technorati: Toyota+Prius, cars, Carscoop, blogs, automotive, vehicles

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Seems like its all about the DUI’s these days as now Lindsey Lohan, or favorite blond/brunette/red-head of Hollywood was caught red handed by paparazzi crashing her Mercedes and fleeing the scene, on foot! Sources say she might be off to the “big-house” to join her pal Paris for the same offense. Unfortunately their big contracts can’t get them out of this pickle. Can NBC please place a camera in these jail-cells. I have no doubt that these girls will find some way to get some cash out of this situation. -One more video after the jump

Via: Motorpasion , Source: spynbuy

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A couple of months after its Seoul Show debut, Hyundai introduced its all-new full size van to the members of the press on May 25th in Kyungju, South Korea. Available in commercial (cargo) and passenger versions (8seater) and offered either with a 100Hp 2.5-liter Common Rail Diesel or a 175Hp 2.4-liter Theta petrol engine, the H1-Van, also know as the Starex in the domestic market, will primarily target vans like the VW Transporter, Ford Transit and Mercedes Vito. Production of the diesel edition starts this August while the petrol version will be available after November 2007. -Press release and high-res image gallery after the jump

Technorati: Hyundai+H1, Starex, cars, Carscoop, blogs, automotive,

All-New Hyundai H-1 Van (pictures below)

With its sophisticated lines, the all-new H-1 (project codename TQ) improves on its predecessor in every measurable respect. More spacious, more comfortable and more convenient, the new H-1 reinvigorates Hyundai competitiveness in this hotly contested segment. The new H-1 comes in passenger van and commercial van versions. The people mover is available in a variety of seating layouts: eight, nine, 11 or 12 passenger while the commercial van comes in two, three, five and six seater versions for a a high degree of versatility.

Engines: For all markets outside of Korea and the EU, power for the new H-1 is provided by a 2.5-liter turbocharged intercooled engine (4D56). Euro-III emissions-compliant, the 4D56 delivers 100ps of horsepower and 23kg m of torque whilst delivering 9.4km per litre of fuel. It's mated to a five-speed manual gearbox or the optional four-speed automatic. For the EU and Korean markets, the new H-1 gets the A 2.5 CRDi, a Euro-IV compliant engine which with the assistance of a Variable Geometry Turbocharger delivers 170ps and 40kg m of torque.

The base gearbox is a five-speed manual but an automatic is available as an option, in either four- or five-speed versions, depending on local market requirements. For markets requiring gasoline propulsion, the 2.4-liter Theta engine is a new offering to the range. Delivering 170ps and 22.8kg m of torque, the Theta can propel the new H-1 to a maximum speed of 185km/h and has a fuel economy rating of 7.1km per litre. Key new exterior features include the addition of dual sliding side doors, twin swing rear doors (commercial van only), enlarged wheels and tires (205/70R15 -> 215/70R16), back-up warning system (passenger van only) and a sliding side window (wagon only).

New touches to the interior include the mounting of the transmission gear shift lever to the center fascia for obstructionless movement between the driver seat and front passenger seat and the addition of an overhead storage console. The new H-1 is also fitted with an electro-chromic rear view mirror and new roof-mounted air vents for improved cooling and heating throughout the cabin. The new H-1 gets 16-inch front disc brakes providing better braking power than the H-1's 15-inch discs. And for improved handling, it's fitted with a MacPherson strut front suspension. Production of the new H-1 diesel edition starts in August 2007 while the petrol version won't be available until after November 2007.

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With gas hitting record prices all over the world any wacko idea is welcome, but a car running on air? Yes and despite what you may think, the folks at MDI aren’t full of hot air. Developed by ex-F1 engineer, Guy Nègre for MDI a small, family-controlled company located at Carros, near Nice (Southern France), the Air Car uses compressed air to push its engine’s pistons emitting… 0 to sub-zero Celsius (30 F and under) air!

All it takes is €1.5 -$2.0 and around 2 to 3 minutes at a gas station to fill the car’s carbon-fibre tanks with 90 cubic meters of air compressed to 300 bars. Alternatively, you can plug the car into an electrical grid and use the built-in compressor to refill the tanks which takes approximately 4 hours. Of course, electricity=emissions, but hey, no one’s perfect. According to MDI, the Air Car can go up to 110km/h - 68 mph and has a range of 200-300km or 125-190 miles. MDI has developed four versions of the Air Car: Family, Van, Taxi & Pick-Up.

While there are no plans to import the Air Car to the US, India’s largest automaker, Tata Motors, signed an agreement with MDI in February to build the Air Car. Tata expects some 6.000 units to hit Indian streets in August of 2008. Apart from India, MDI has also signed deals to bring the Air Car to a dozen or so countries, including Germany, Israel and South Africa. We’re not endorsing the Air Car as a true alternative to petrol cars –who knows how many faults it may have, but in our opinion, the only viable way to drastically improve consumption and emissions, will be an array of solutions: diesels, hybrids (petrol/electric & diesel/electric), bio-fuels, air cars etc. All together, they may very well do the trick until some wacko scientist finds a way to power our vehicles with a super clean and efficient energy that’ll last for ever and ever. Sweet dreams… -Click “Read More…” below for a high-res image gallery and a Video

Via: Le blog auto , Source: MDI

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…especially when you have illegally parked on the sidewalk, right in front of glass wall and you’re in such a hurry to avoid being ticketed. According to our tipster, this video was taken from a security camera in Athens, Greece on the day of the UEFA Champions League Final between Milan and Liverpool, May 23. -thanks for sending the video CC!

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Following up on our weekend post concerning the Lexus IS Coupe-Cabrio, here’s another interesting proposition for a mid-sized, 2+2 convertible, this time based on the Infiniti G37 / Nissan Skyline Coupe. As with the IS Coupe-Cabrio CGI (Computer Generated Image), the G37 Convertible rendering was scanned from, an unknown this time, Japanese car magazine. Again, we have no confirmation –official or unofficial, that Nissan/Infiniti is actually preparing an open top version of its G35/Skyline Coupe, but we definitely find it interesting and we can’t think of a reason why Nissan shouldn’t go ahead and produce a model like this. Then again, our name doesn’t start with a C nor do the call us “le cost killer” behind our back. Pic via: skylinesaustralia

Technorati: Nissan+Skyline, Infiniti+G37, Convertible, cars, Carscoop, cars, autos, vehicles

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With summer well on its way in the northern hemisphere it was bound that we would see the 100th or so special/limited –call it what you want, version of the MX-5. For the moment, Mazda has announced that it’ll introduce a "mere" 875 MX-5 1.8i Icon’s and 375 MX-5 2.0i Icon’s in the UK. Special features include: climate control air-conditioning, Icon-branded black Medici leather seats, unique Icon-branded luxury interior mats, Icon badging and chrome style bar trims. The Icon will be available solely three exterior colours – Copper Red Mica, unique Marble White (solid) and Stormy Blue Mica. Full press release along with U.K. pricing and high-res pics after the jump

SPECIAL EDITION "MAZDA MX-5 ICON" ZOOMS INTO SUMMER

• Just 875 MX-5 1.8i Icon and 375 MX-5 2.0i Icon will be available in the UK
• Mazda MX-5 Icon, based on the MX-5 1.8i and 2.0i Option Pack models, offers up to £1,500 worth of additional features

Celebrating its status as ‘Britain’s favourite sports car brand’ – delivering one in every four sports cars sold in the UK this year – Mazda is introducing a new ‘Special Edition’ MX-5 soft-top model to its product line-up this summer, finished in a patriotic choice of red, white or blue paint.

The appropriately named ‘Mazda MX-5 Icon’ is the latest edition of the world’s best-selling roadster and is specially designed to appeal to British drivers looking to purchase their very first soft-top roadster this summer. A true sports car, the rear-wheel drive MX-5 delivers unrivalled handling, driving dynamics and wind-in-the-hair motoring.

Representing extremely competitive value for money, the Mazda MX-5 Icon is available in two versions – the ‘entry-level’ 1.8i Icon features a 126ps engine and a five-speed transmission and is priced at £16,825 on-the-road. Customers in search of higher performance can choose the 2.0i Icon powered by a 160ps engine mated to a six-speed transmission and costing £17,825.

Both Icon models offer fantastic value with up to £1,500 worth of additional extras. Special features of the Icon include climate control air-conditioning, Icon-branded black Medici leather seats and unique Icon-branded luxury interior mats.

Exterior features include Icon badging and chrome style bar trims and the cars can be ordered in one of three exterior colours – Copper Red Mica, unique Marble White (solid) and Stormy Blue Mica.

“Since the demise of the MG TF and Toyota MR2, there is no longer a defined ‘roadster’ segment within the non-premium sports car market,” commented Mazda UK's Managing Director Rob Lindley.

“ Today, a section of the public perceives competitors to the Mazda MX-5 to include other open-top cars like the Mini Convertible, Vauxhall Tigra and Peugeot 207CC – all non-sports car segment vehicles.

Now, the Mazda MX-5 Icon aims to attract those customers by offering an irresistible combination of a uniquely sporty rear‑wheel drive, wind-in-the-hair experience, high specification and excellent value. We are sure that this new model is an Icon by name and the MX-5 is certainly iconic by nature!” concluded Lindley.

As well as adding the special Icon features, generous standard equipment of the MX-5 ensures that buyers can enjoy: leather wrapped steering wheel, gear knob and handbrake, six-speaker audio system, electric windows, premium black cloth soft-top, 16-inch alloy wheels, twin chrome exhaust tail pipes and a Thatcham Category 1 alarm and immobiliser.

Icon owners will also enjoy a degree of exclusivity as production of this latest Mazda MX-5 model will be restricted. Just 875 examples of the MX-5 1.8i Icon and 375 units of the
MX-5 2.0i Icon will be available in the UK.

Despite all of the additional specification, both Mazda MX-5 Icon special editions remain in the same insurance groups as their standard counterparts – 11E (1.8i) and 13E (2.0i).

Technorati: Mazda, Mazda+MX-5, Miata, cars, Carscoop, cars, autos, vehicles

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On May 30th 1967, Mazda sold its first rotar-engine powered car and simultaneously, the world’s first dual-rotar, rotary engine vehicle, the Cosmo Sport. 40 years latter and while most manufactures have long abandoned the idea of developing the innovative but also problematic, rotar-engine, Mazda continues to believe in Felix Wankel's dream. Tomorrow, May 30, 2007, Mazda will celebrate the rotary engine 40th birthday by opening a dedicated website -we’ll have more details on that later on. For the time being, Mazda has released an exclusive blog widget that allows comments. Simply copy the code below (replace XXX with <), and paste it to your blog –be sure though that your service provider permits JavaScript. Here’s the piece of the code:

XXXscript src="http://www.mazda.com/mazdaspirit/rotary/blogparts/rotary.js" type="text/javascript"> XXX/script>

Don’t really care about widgets? Well, we thought about that, so in compensation we added 50 (yes it took as a while) high-res images of all the rotar-engine powered cars that Mazda has produced the past 40 years; from the luscious Cosmo Sport to the weird, Holden Kingswood based, Roadpacer and from the Parkway bus to the dual-fueled (gasoline & hydrogen) RX-8 Hydrogen RE. -Follow the jump for the high-res image-gallery

Technorati: Mazda, Rotary, widget, cars, Carscoop, cars, autos, vehicles

Cosmo Sport/Mazda 110S

Famillia Rotary/Mazda R100

Luce Rotary Coupe/Mazda R130 Coupe

Capella Rotary/Mazda RX-2

Savanna/Mazda RX-3

Luce Rotary/Mazda RX-4

Parkway Rotary 26

Roadpacer AP

Cosmo AP/Mazda RX-5

Savanna RX-7/Mazda RX-7(1st)

Savanna RX-7/Mazda RX-7(2nd)

Luce(4th)

Eunos Cosmo

Mazda RX-7(3rd)

RX-8

RX-8 Hydrogen RE

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This could be a double-scoop on Infomotori’s behalf: the upcoming C-Class Estate and the C63 AMG Estate but honestly, who cares about the first, it’s just another boring station wagon. However, when you combine a boring shape with V8 powerhouse and rear-wheel drive all of a suddenly it becomes mighty intriguing.

For the moment, all we know is that, like its sedan sibling, the C63 AMG Estate will be equipped with the same 6.2-litre V8 engine that’s fitted in the CLK 63 AMG, E63 AMG, CLS 63AMG etc. But how many ponies will come out of this version of the supercharged V8? Tough question. The current AMG wears a 5.4 V8 pumping out 367Hp which obviously isn’t enough to create a buzz if you consider that its two German rivals, the BMW M3 and the Audi RS4, both get 420Hp V8’s. On the other hand, the CLK 63 AMG’s V8 has an output of 481 while the E63 AMG, 514Hp. Our guess? More than 450 and below 500Hp. Pics via: Infomotori.co.uk

Technorati: Mercedes, Mercedes+C63+AMG, cars, Carscoop, cars, autos, vehicles

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Those where the days (for GM that is); Toyota was a horsefly on Harley Earl's humongous tail fins and Hyundai was nothing more than a weird Asian surname. It’s 1955 and Chevy introduces its revamped Bel-Air equipped with an all new "Turbo-Fire", 265 cubic inch V8, offered in three versions: 165Hp with a two-barrel carburettor, 185Hp with a four-barrel carburettor and 196Hp "power pack" version that had a high lift solid lifter cam, high compression heads, and dual exhaust. This nostalgic array of classic TV commercials showcase the 1955 Chevy models deemed as “the new motoramic Chevrolet”. Via: Motorpasion

Technorati: Chevrolet+Bel-Air, cars, Carscoop, blogs, automotive, vehicles

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While most tuners either try to maximize output or to upgrade –in their opinion, a car’s appearance, J.N.Hephaiss proposition concentrates on improving the Ferrari 360 Modena’s aerodynamics. With the exception of the exhaust/muffler system and the 19-inch O.Z. rims, J.N.Hephaiss’s kit for the 400Hp 360 Modena comprises a full set of spoilers: front lip, side skirt and rear-end diffuser, all of which are available in two materials: FRP and Carbon (dark colored spoilers). Follow the jump for the picture gallery along with the price-list. Via: Autoblog.it , Source: J.N.Hephaiss

Parts -Price

041701 Front Canard (Carbon) -US$ 2,400

041702 Front Canard (FRP) -US$ 1,680

041801 Side Straker (Carbon) -US$ 2,100

041802 Side Straker (FRP) -US$ 1,820

041201 Rear Under Diffuser (Carbon) -US$ 2,400

041202 Rear Under Diffuser (FRP) -US$ 1,900

042101 Ultimate Exhaust system (SUS) & Muffler Heatproof plate (Carbon) -US$ 7,800

042201 Muffler Heatproof plate (Carbon) -US$ 1,480

Wheels

OZ Racing / RAFFAELLO

Front 8.5J-19 (ET27 / PCD 108) Hand Polished - ask

Rear 11.0J-19 (ET34 / PCD 108) Hand Polished - ask

Technorati: Ferrari+360+Modena, Tuning, cars, Carscoop, blogs, automotive, vehicles

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Talking about car ownership costs in Australia in our previous post made me remember an article about car taxation in the EU that I had once recommended writing about in my 9 to 5 job but never did due to office stupidity and bureaucracy (…). Since Carscoop’s a blog and in “blog-world”, less is more, I won’t go into an anal sort of detailed analysis. Instead, I’ll just pinpoint some interesting facts and let the info-sheets after the jump speak for themselves. *Note these are the latest facts we found on ACEA (European Automobile Manufacturers Association) and Eurostat.

Taxes on ownership: While in most EU countries taxes on car ownership are based on engine capacity and horsepower, Denmark (probably the weirdest EU member when it comes to car duties) taxes fuel consumption and… weight! However, let’s say that there’s logic behind this combination, what about Hungary and Latvia that base ownership taxes solely on car weight? Estonia, France, Lithuania, Poland, Slovenia, Slovakia and the Czech Republic weirdly enough don’t charge any passenger vehicle ownership taxes.

Taxes on acquisition (2.0-litre vehicle): By far, Denmark is the EU champion here; those petrol-sucking officials will add a stunning 155% on the factory price of a 2.0-litre engine car! Second up is new EU member Malta that charges a heart breaking 93% while Portugal takes the third place with 77% VAT & registration taxes. The best place to buy (as a resident) a 2.0-litre car in the E.U. is Luxembourg as its government adds a mere 15% to the factory price.

Fiscal Income from Motor Vehicles: Heap of stuff here. France: 60.6 million people and 36 million cars, busses, trucks and vans - € 7.7 billion in toll taxes. Italy: 55.8 million people and 39 million vehicles- €1.1 billion… At least in insurance taxes both countries were on the same level (FR: €4.1 billion, ΙΤ: € 4.3 billion). Denmark on the other hand, received €3.3 billion for insurance taxes. But wait, isn’t Denmark significantly smaller than France or Italy? Yes it is: population 5.5 million, vehicles in use: 2 million! -Continued: Click “Read More…” below

E.U. POPULATION & VEHICLES IN USE

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WTF; a 500Hp+ Group B rally car in an indoor (!) go-kart track? And if you thought that’s insane, check out the cars parked inside the tire barriers, heck, there’s even a damn Lamborghini Countach in there! What a car though, and what a sound it makes indoors. Pure ecstasy. Via: Diariomotor

Technorati: Lancia+Delta+S4, Rally, kart, cars, Carscoop, blogs, automotive, vehicles

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An Australian survey concerning vehicle ownership cost? As strange as it may seem, not only do we like knowing that Lexus is Japanese and Land Rover is British (…), but we also find interesting totally useless stuff like how many bucks will an Aussie block pay to own his 6cylinder Commodore or Falcon. For the record, your average Mike will pay 233.40 & 229.13 AUD par week respectively that translates to €142.1 & 139.5 and $191.2 & 187.7 again, respectively.

The Royal Automobile Club of Victoria’s (RACV) conducted this particular survey and the calculations include the cost of financing the vehicle, depreciation (hence the high numbers we mentioned above), as well as operating costs including scheduled services, registration, insurance, fuel, tyres, etc. We don’t know why, but the Aussies only included Australian and Japanese carmakers along with a couple of Kia’s and Hyundai’s. Follow the jump (click "Read More...") to check out analytical ownership costs per vehicle category.

Key to the tables

Standing costs include those incurred on a periodical basis, such as depreciation in the value of the vehicle, interest on the loan, registration, driver’s license and RACV roadside assistance membership.

Running costs include those that result primarily from usage of the vehicle, such as fuel, tyre replacement, service and repairs.

Total Costs combine both Standing and Running costs. They are calculated as an average, based on costs incurred over the first five years of ownership and 15,000 km annual travel distance.

Via: RACV

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Finally, after countless of unmasked scoops shown here and there we have the first official pictures of the, still to be unveiled, Peugeot 207 SW. SUV bodykit apart, the production version is identical to the Outdoor concept we saw in Geneva back in March. We love the 207 hatch looks and Peugeot did its best to make us think likewise for the 4.150 mm long SW. We suspect that the French will officially unveil the compact SW at the upcoming Barcelona Show in early June, but for the time being follow the jump (click "Read More...") and see the rest of the image gallery.

Possible Engine Range:

• Petrol: 1.4 90Hp, 1.6 120Hp & 1.6T 150Hp (?)
• Diesel: 1.4HDI 75Hp, 1.6HDi 90Hp & 1.6HDi 110Hp

Technorati: Peugeot, Peugeot+207+SW, cars, Carscoop, blogs, automotive, vehicles

Pics via: feline207

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VW GTI meeting Wörthersee 2007; VW presents the sugarlicious Golf GTI W12 and the Golf GTI Pirelli while Audi kicked butts with the “poor-mans” speedster. You can imagine the joy and pride that the VW boyz felt. You can also imagine what happens when cheerful hoons are supplied with endless shiploads of beer and weenies… We’ve only got one question; what the hell is that guy at around 2.10 min from the beginning of the video trying to accomplish with the mini motorcycle?

Technorati: VW, Audi, Video, cars, Carscoop, blogs, automotive, vehicles

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Oh boy, another Japanese only press release to rely on. Well, according to the translation we made, along with a new (?) 1.2-litre engine available with a CVT gearbox the Swift received a handful of minor upgrades for the 2008 models. Aesthetic changes include the slightly redesigned front & rear bumpers, the new grille, the adoption of turning signals on the side mirrors and new rear light-clusters while interior changes concern the upgraded trim levels. Finally, Suzuki also slightly altered the gear ratios of the Swift Sport. Expect these mods to pass onto the European edition of the Swift later on the year. -Click “Read More…” for more Photos

Technorati: Suzuki+Swift, cars, Carscoop, blogs, automotive, vehicles

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All kinky and wet? Too bad, cause the Lexus IS CC you’re looking at above is nothing more and nothing less than a CGI (Computer Generated Image), scanned from Japanese car magazine, “Car-Top”, and based on pure speculations. Bummer. Before we start sinking in our chair in shame, we’ll happily accept your props for the worst possible way to start an article concerning a scoop. Still haven’t scrolled down to our next post or even worse… to another blog? Guess then we should give you a reason for the article’s existence. Ok, here goes; speculations or not, we believe that the IS CC would be the perfect addition in Lexus’ line-up. Not only sales-wise but also image-wise.

Look at Lexus’ current range: IS, GS, LS, ES, SC, RX, LX and the GX. SC apart, it’s all about family sedans and SUV’s. Now, check out the competition. With the exception of Cadillac, every serious luxury car manufacturer has a mid-sized, 4seater coupe or/and a cabriolet in their line-up: BMW 3-Series Coupe & CC, Audi A5 Coupe, Mercedes CLK Coupe & Cabriolet and Infiniti G35 Coupe. Heck, even Volvo has one, the C70.

Agreed; the upcoming IS-F can boost Lexus’ sporty image -potentially cause don’t forget what happened to Volvo’s "R" range. Why not have a back-up plan with a mid-size coupe-cabriolet? Not only will it appeal to a wider audience than the IS-F, but also it can seriously help Lexus in its European conquest. Even if you look at it from a marketing point, take out the mid-sized, 4seater coupes and soft-tops and here’s what’s left: 3-Series Convertible & C70. Moreover, from those two, only the bimmer is considered to be sporty. It’s a win-win situation if you ask us. Picture via: Nihon

Technorati: Lexus+IS, cars, Carscoop, blogs, automotive, vehicles

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A local TV advert for a Sleep Center in Odessa Texas attempts to show us what happens when you mix driving with lack of sleep. In all its sloppiness and stupidity, this commercial really cracked us up. Watch the van rollover and get ready to rollover your chair from laughing!

Technorati: Carscoop, Accident, TV, Ad, Commercial, Video, Cars, Autos, Vehicles

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Volkswagen announced a few changes in its Golf range replacing the existing Sport and GT trim levels with a single all-new model, the Golf GT Sport. As you can see in the picture, visual changes are restricted up front, and specifically to the pitch-black grille section along with the darkened headlights insert which help forge a visual link with the sporty Golf GTI and R32 variants.

The new GT Sport trim (3d & 5d) can be combined with the 1.4-litre TSI petrol and 2.0-litre TDI diesel engine, both available in 140 Hp and 170 Hp outputs. Equipment-wise, a leather-trimmed 3-spoke steering wheel, gearknob and handbrake are fitted along with front sports seats, automatic light sensing headlights and rain sensing windscreen wipers. This is in addition to the 17-inch multi-spoke alloys fitted with 225/45 R17 tires, climatic a/c, a CD stereo system with eight speakers and electric windows. Six airbags, ABS and Electronic Stabilisation Programme (ESP) round off the standard equipment list. Sales are expected to start in Europe later in the summer. -Click “Read More…” below to check out the pictures

Technorati: VW+Golf+GT+Sport, cars, Carscoop, blogs, automotive, vehicles

VW GOLF GT SPORT

VW GOLF GT

VW GOLF

VW GOLF GTI

VW GOLF R32

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Brand what? Listen to this; according to Anderson Analytics latest brand origin study that sampled 1,000 US College students at over 375 US universities during the fall 2006 semester, 33.7% of the participants believed that Lexus is an American firm while 55,7% said that Hyundai’s Japanese. Forty-nine percent thought Swedish carmaker Volvo to be German while 58.4% said Land Rover is an American company. Saab, Swedish? Yeah right. 40.4% mistakenly thought that it’s a German car manufacture!

"For the most part, this next generation of educated American consumers either have no clue where the brands they use come from or simply assume everything comes from the United States, Japan or Germany," said Tom H. C. Anderson, Managing Partner, Anderson Analytics.

According to Anderson, while students’ ignorance for brand origin may a bliss in some cases –eg. most believe that Motorola is Japanese (…), country of origin plays an important part in making luxury goods and automobiles more exclusive and exotic. And vice-versa, may we add as Hyundai proves. From the 246 people who said Hyundai’s was Korean, just 42% of them thought Korea makes good products while 85% of them said Japan makes good products. From the 589 students who wrongly believed Hyundai’s Japanese, 83% of them believe that Japan makes great products while only 38% think Korean products are good. Go figure… Via: Anderson Analytics

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This fella has serious issues to solve, and we mean really, really serious issues. Kitsch plastic add-ons aside, why the hell would you stick a reversed BMW kidney-grille on a first-gen Audi A3 hatch? Seriously now, why? Can’t even begin to start imagining what his next project will look like. -Thanks for the pic Mike!

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Coinciding with the Roland-Garros tennis tournament, Peugeot presented yet another special version of one its models bearing the name of the famous French Open. Based on the 207 CC 1.6 (120HP), the Roland-Garros is offered exclusively in a bright yellow colour reminiscent of a tennis ball (…). Colour aside, the 207 CC Roland-Garros features special badges and a longer standard equipment list. According the French carmaker, in all, 100.000 models have worn the Roland-Garros badge throughout Peugeot’s history. PS: What do you think about Peugeot’s slogan, “The car is a ball” ? -More pictures after the jump

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Either way, make your life easier and take a bus next time you visit the city. Or at least that’s what Belgian bus company De Lijn is saying in its playful campaign in an attempt to persuade people to use public transport instead of cars. De Lijn’s first campaign includes a bus with an MG parked on its rooftop suggesting that they’ll let people park their cars on one of their busses if they decide to use public transportation. The second advert has to do with a fake company called “Cardive” that takes on the task of parking your car in a canal. Apart from creating a fake site, De Lijn’s “Cardive” campaign has divers walking around in cities handing out free bus tickets and maps of the bus network. -Continued below

Via: Wikinews , Source: De Lijn

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One of VW’s most, if not the most, popular petrol engines in its European range, the 115Hp 1.6-liter FSI, is soon to be replaced by the company’s new 122Hp 1.4-litre TSI. Based on the 1.4-litre TSI that combines a supercharger and a turbocharger (available in 140Hp and 170Hp guises), the new unit uses just a turbocharger. The new engine is planned to be fitted to the Golf, Golf Plus, Golf Estate, Jetta and Passat models, replacing the current 1.6-litre FSI when production commences later this year.

The 122Hp 1.4 TSI will also be available with VW’s brand new 7-Speed DSG gearbox. The new seven-speed system – a world first and codenamed DQ200 –uses a pair of dry clutches in preference to the six-speed version’s twin wet clutches. According to VW, this increases efficiency and performance over the wet clutch six-speed system. Interestingly enough, for the first time, the DSG gearbox has been mounted transversely. Thanks to its compact proportions (369 mm in length and weighing just 79 kg / 174 lbs), it can be applied to models from the Polo right up to the Passat and, in its current form, it is capable of coping with power outputs of up to 170 PS and 184 lbs ft of torque. -Continued below

Both the 122Hp 1.4 TSI and the new 7-Speed DSG will also be available in the Seat Leon / Altea range, while Skoda will probably have to wait until next year to get the new powertrain option.

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These pictures were shot by an Audi fan in a parking lot somewhere in Spain and from the looks of it, we could be looking at the upcoming RS6. Just to set things straight, we have no official or unofficial confirmation that Audi’s readying a top-notch A6, only rumours and various spy pics like these. The differences we spotted between the current S6 and the RS6 pictured here include wider flares, 20’’ rims, twin oval exhaust pipes and the rear diffuser. We also have a couple of interior images that unveil a 330 km/h speedometer (S6: 290 km/h), a sportier, racing-style cut steering wheel and an automatic gearbox. As for what’s hiding under the hood, it's speculated that the RS6 will carry the same V10 engine as in the S6, but with a little help from turbochargers, output will surpass the 550 Hp mark. –15 more images after the jump

Via: Autoblog.it , Source: audisport-iberica

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Kia came out with an official release and more images of its updated Picanto mini that’ll premiere at the Barcelona Auto Show on June 7, 2007, In a nutshell, the 2008 Picanto received a new front end, different rear light clusters and an updated interior inspired from the Cee’d. There are no changes in the engine range. The Koreans believe that the facelift will help boost annual oversees sales in excess of 130,000 units over the next several years. -Press Release & Images after the jump

Upgraded 2007 Kia Picanto set for Barcelona Motor Show debut

• - Refreshed, restyled and longer – new 2007 Kia Picanto to debut on 7 June
• - Fresh colours, plus upgraded interior, audio equipment and power steering

(SEOUL) May 25, 2007 – Kia Motors Corporation has confirmed that the newly upgraded 2007 Kia Picanto will make its world premiere at the 34^th Salon Internacional del Automovil in Barcelona, Spain on 7 June. Kia’s design teams in Korea and Europe have revisited the company’s smallest car, preserved its ‘young, sporty and friendly’ spirit, and evolved the new 2007 Picanto – a car with more glamorous looks, an upgraded interior and higher quality audio equipment.

Attractively refreshed and restyled to be ‘more rounded and intimate’, the 2007 Picanto is 40 mm longer, with an overall length of 3535 mm, featuring an extended, rounded nose and deeper, larger rear bumper. All-new panels are used for the bonnet, front wings, front bumper and rear bumper. The front and rear light clusters are new and follow the ‘rounded’ theme.

A new wider radiator grille, with black mesh background and twin horizontal chromed bars supporting the central Kia badge, is part of the evolving design process that is defining a new ‘Face of Kia’. The standard roof spoiler now extends across the full width of the car, while the wheelbase is unchanged at 2370 mm. Customers will be offered a choice of five new exciting, contemporary colours in a range of nine exterior colours.

“With nearly 400,000 exports since its introduction in 2004, the Picanto has not only opened the door to a segment where we previously had no presence but it has become one of the Kia line-up’s global best sellers,” commented Yong-Hwan Kim, Senior Executive Vice President & COO of Kia Motors Corporation. “We are confident that with its fresh new looks and upgraded equipment the Picanto will continue to appeal to the world’s A-segment customers and reach annual overseas sales in excess of 130,000 units over the next several years.”

Technorati: Kia+Picanto, cars, Carscoop

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