Over the next year and a half, BMW will test a series of electric-powered MINI models in real life conditions, the company announced today. The MINIs will be built in the company’s
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Showing posts with label MINI. Show all posts
Showing posts with label MINI. Show all posts
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"We are currently examining with the Fiat Group possibilities for the joint use of components and systems in MINI and Alfa Romeo vehicles in order to achieve economies of scale and thus cost reductions within the framework of our Strategy Number ONE", said Friedrich Eichiner, member of the Board of Management of BMW AG responsible for Corporate and Brand Development. Sergio Marchionne, CEO of Fiat Group said: "The proposed co-operation with BMW is a significant cornerstone of our strategy of alliances. We are delighted to work with such an esteemed and respected partner in the automotive industry with the clear objective of improving the competitive position of both parties," Sergio Marchionne, CEO of Fiat Group and FGA, said in 
BMW Group and Fiat Group have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to explore the possibility of co-operation in the areas of architectures and components for their MINI and Alfa Romeo vehicles. As part of the deal, BMW will support Fiat in launching the Alfa Romeo brand in the North American market, or to put it simple, MINI
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This year’s Paris Show in October will host many concept cars that will be previewing production versions that are set to follow shortly after. One of the most anticipated concepts will be the MINI Crossman SUV/Crossoverthat will be introduced in pre-production form according to a report from Dutch webzine, Autotelegraaf.
Likely to be based on a modified version of the Clubman’s platform, the Crossman will feature raised suspension and tough body cladding along with a four-wheel-drive system. The production version of MINI’s new crossover that’s expected to be introduced sometime in 2010, will be built by Magna Steyr in
Via: Autotelegraaf
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To be frank, we can’t say that we were thrilled with the “lightly dressed” female models that took part in the photo session as all of them look like they skipped a few meals too many in order to take part in the event. As for “I don’t know if I’m a man or woman” Amanda Lepore that was included in the official images that BMW released, she’s one scary dude…
“Mama” BMW has released more images of its special edition MINI Clubman that was erotically re-designed by lingerie boffin “Agent Provocateur”. The relatively naughty pictures were shot at the Life Ball Aids charity event that took place in 
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This whole gas price thing is taking its toll on everyone – even Oscar Mayer who decided its time to put its famous Wienermobile into the dryer and base it on a MINI Cooper. These pictures were shot by our friend Michelle (you may remember her from the Nissan 280Z based Ferrari 250GTO replica) who captured the MINI Wienermobile on her way home in Gurnee
Oscar Mayer’s modern interpretation of the Wienermobile is a far cry from the 2000 hot-dog car that measured a fearsome 27 feet or 8.2 meters in length and was powered by GM’s 5.7-liter V8 Vortec engine. Wonder what’s next; a Smart Fortwo Wienermobile? -More images after the jump
Thanks for the pics Michelle!
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This one-off MINI Clubman was created by the naughty lingerie specialist “Agent Provocateur” and it made its debut today (May 17) at Europe’s largest AIDS charity event “Life Ball” which took place at
However, it’s the Clubman’s interior that “Agent Provocateur” put its kinky work into full action. Apart from the fully reclining rear seats and ankle cuffs for forensic investigations of the third type, the erotic Clubman also gets saddle stitched leather seat and bespoke compartments for various tools of the job –if you get our drift. And as “Agent Provocateur’s” founder Joseph Corre says, “This is an interior you really would want to get banged up in!” -Continued
If you agree with Corre, then you’ll be happy to know that this unique MINI Clubman will be put up for auction on eBay from June 5 -15, 2008, with all proceeds being donated to Life Ball.
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German tuning firm AC Schnitzer has got its hand on the not so mini, MINI Cooper S Clubman which has receiver a power upgrade boosting output from 170 to 226 Hp while torque is up to 285 Nm. The sport package also includes a sport spring kit and if you’re up to it, a height-adjustable racing suspension is also available.
Optionally, AC Schnitzer offers a limited slip differential (up to maximum 75 percent) that promises to apply power to the right wheel when cornering. Other goodies from AC Schnitzer include a front spoiler, a larger hood dome, twin sports rear silencer with chromed tailpipes and bicolour 17- or 18-inch wheels. –Pics after the jump
Via: Autoblog.it
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Inside, the Trigger’s dashboard gets a brushed aluminum trim and a three-spoke leather steering wheel. Despite what its name suggests, the Trigger is powered by MINI’s entry-level 95Hp 1.4-liter engine that propels it from zero to 100 km/h or 62 mph in 10.9 sec and on to a top speed of 185 km/h or 115 mph.
Adding to an already impressive list of special edition models, MINI has launched yet another version of its successful premium hatch. Available for the time being in 
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The Bavarian group said in a statement today that it sold it sold 14,574 cars in mainland
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There’s not a single doubt in anyone’s mind that Alfa Romeo’s Mi.To sport hatch (pics & details here, video here)is aimed directly towards the MINI. And while we’ll have to drive the Mi.To to see if Alfa’s engineers have magically transformed its Fiat Grande Punto underpinnings, few will disagree with us when we say that the Mi.To’s 8c Competizione-inspired styling is awe-inspiring. What we want to hear from you is your initial thoughts on Alfa’s newest proposition and whether you’d seriously consider buying it over the MINI Cooper. Have your say in the comment section below. (Pic: Carscoop)
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You can’t have a MINI and not own a set of the British carmaker’s matching bags. We mean, what will your friends say if you they saw you travelling with a no-name set of bags in your MINI’s… mini-trunk? We can imagine what our “manly” friends would have to say to us, but that’s beside the point. But anyway, in case you’re interested, MINI’s new range of stylish bags will be available for order in April, 2008. – One more pic after the jump
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Following the announcement on the most powerful factory versions of the Cooper S hatch and its Clubman sibling last week (pics and details), MINI released an official video contain driving and static footage. Both John Cooper Works (JCW) models are equipped with a supped up version of the 1.6 litre engine with Twin Scroll turbocharger that delivers 208 HP or 155 kW. The MINI John Cooper Works accelerates in 6.5 seconds from 0–100 km/h (62 mph) while the Clubman needs 0.3 sec more. –Video after the jump
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The customized MINI Pick-Up truck you see in the picture above will make a special appearance at Pioneer’s stand at the forthcoming Paris Tuning Show on February 29. It is equipped with a series of Pioneer products including a high-end navigation system. Unfortunately, we don’t have all the details in our hands, but from what we made from the French press release, Pioneer’s MINI Pick-Up features a wide-bodykit from MS-Design, a lowered suspension kit from Spax and 18-inch alloy wheels wrapped around 215/40 tires. –More pics after the jump
Via: Le Blog Auto - Thanks for the tip Simon!
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The wait for the John Cooper Work-tuned versions of the Cooper S and Cooper S Clubman is over as MINI has released pictures and details on both models. Set to make their public debut at the Geneva Show in early March, the JCW MINI Cooper S models are equipped with a modified version of the 1.6-liter twin-scroll turbocharged engine generating 208 HP (155 kw or 211 bhp) and a maximum torque figure of 260 Nm ( 192 lb-ft) available from 1,850 rpm to 5,600 rpm by means of overboost the torque can be increased to 280 Nm. (207 lb-ft US).
The MINI John Cooper Works takes 6.5 sec to accelerate from 0–100 km/h (62 mph) while the time required by the MINI John Cooper Works Clubman is 6.8 sec. Both have a maximum speed of 238 km/h or 148 mph.
Additional modifications include re-engineered brakes, suspension and strengthened gearing along with a series of exterior and interior styling products including the 17” light-alloy wheels in JCW Cross-Spoke CHALLENGE design. Sales will begin this summer with prices in
PRESS RELEASE:
IN THE NAME OF RACING: MINI JOHN COOPER WORKS AND MINI JOHN COOPER WORKS CLUBMAN
The heart beating under the bonnet of each of the two new extreme sports cars is that of a racer. The 1.6 litre 4-cylinder engine with Twin Scroll turbocharger and petrol direct injection delivers 155 kW/211 bhp (207 hp US) and develops its maximum torque of 260 Newton-metres (192 lb-ft US) between 1,850 and 5,600 rpm – by means of overboost the torque can actually be increased to 280 Nm. (207 lb-ft US). The power unit is based on the engine of the John Cooper Works CHALLENGE, which will see its premiere at the MINI CHALLENGE 2008. It accelerates the MINI John Cooper Works in 6.5 seconds from 0–100 km/h, the MINI John Cooper Works Clubman manages the spurt in just 0.3 seconds more.
It is not only the engines of the MINI John Cooper Works and the MINI John Cooper Works Clubman that provide genuine racing feeling. Both models are also fitted with extensive motor racing technology as standard: exclusive light alloy rims with especially light and extremely high-performance brakes, a new exhaust system and the modified 6-speed manual transmission, also created with close reference to the new racing car for the 2008 MINI CHALLENGE. Rarely before has motor racing expertise found its way so directly onto the road. The MINI John Cooper Works will be available in
Fascinating power due to motor racing expertise.
The MINI John Cooper Works and MINI John Cooper Works Clubman are driven by a true power package based on the current engine of the MINI Cooper S, extensively revised for the MINI John Cooper Works CHALLENGE racing vehicle and now back on the road with refreshed power. Even the basic design of the 1,598 cc 4-cylinder engine has details which are drawn from motor racing. The cylinder block and bearing housing are made of aluminium, the four valves per cylinder are controlled by two upper camshafts, friction-optimised cam followers and hydraulic valve clearance compensation elements. The outlet valves are filled with sodium so as to meet the increased cooling needs of a turbo engine. The camshafts of the 4-cylinder are composite. Instead of using the conventional die-cast procedure, the cam rings are made of high-strength steel and shrink-fitted to the actual shaft. The intake camshaft has a continuously variable phase adjustment function by means of which the valve control times can be adapted to the relevant performance requirements.
The engines for the MINI John Cooper Works and the MINI John Cooper Works Clubman are made at the BMW Group engine plant Hams Hall (Great Britain) where the engine units for all MINI model variations are manufactured. In the case of the top-of-the-range engine, there are a number of special modifications to the production process to do justice to the increased output and the resulting higher temperatures in the combustion chamber, thereby guaranteeing maximum reliability of the drive system. The engines are fitted with reinforced and specifically ground pistons as well as a cylinder head with optimised rigidity and modified gasketing. The intake valves and valve seat rings are also made of especially resilient material, and as compared to the engine of the MINI Cooper S there is a slight reduction of the compression.
More air, more power, more torque – the formula for increased driving pleasure.
The power increase as compared to the engine of the MINI Cooper S is mainly achieved by means of optimised air intake and outlet due to an adapted turbocharger. The air filter, air mass sensor, exhaust system and catalytic converter have been modified so as to achieve a power-enhancing dethrottling on the induction and exhaust side. This is also reflected in an engine sound which is peculiar to this model. Due to the adaptation of the exhaust system, a significant reduction of counterpressure is achieved.
The MINI John Cooper Works and MINI John Cooper Works Clubman fulfil the requirements for adherence to the particularly stringent threshold levels defined by the exhaust norms EU5 in Europe and ULEV II in the
The through-flow capacity of the clean air duct to the turbocharger has also been increased. The design of the Twin Scroll turbocharger enables an especially spontaneous power build-up. In the exhaust manifold and the turbocharger, the channels of two cylinders are separated in each case. The supercharger blades are set in optimum motion even at low engine speeds. A turbine was developed in very high-quality material especially for the MINI John Cooper Works and the MINI John Cooper Works Clubman, and the maximum boost pressure was increased from 0.9 to 1.3 bar overpressure.
The maximum torque of 260 Nm ( 192 lb-ft
Petrol direct injection: fuel is precisely measured and efficiently used.
With a specific output of 132 bhp per litre of capacity, the MINI John Cooper Works and MINI John Cooper Works Clubman advance into the realm of
the purebred sports car. What is more, both new models have the characteristic MINI quality of offering unique driving fun in combination with exemplary efficiency. The key function here is the fuel supply system. The turbo 4-cylinder is fitted with petrol direction injection according to the common rail principle. Injection valves positioned laterally in the cylinder head feed the fuel in precise doses under a pressure of 120 bar from the tank directly into the combustion chamber. This means that in every situation on the road, precise fuel supply is guaranteed which is adapted to the given load requirements.
The average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle is at an unusually low level for vehicles of this output category. The MINI John Cooper Works makes do with 6.9 litres per 100 kilometres, the MINI John Cooper Works Clubman requires 7.0 litres. The respective CO2 figures are 165 and 167 grams per kilometre.
Conceived for maximum driving fun: chassis, brakes, assistance systems.
The standard range of features of the MINI John Cooper Works and the MINI John Cooper Works Clubman not only includes a particularly high-performance engine but also a wide range of other components which ensure that this irrepressible power is put safely onto the road.
As is characteristic of MINI, the engine powers the front wheels. The MINI John Cooper Works and MINI John Cooper Works Clubman are fitted with a 6-speed manual transmission whose components have been adapted to the very high level of torque of this new top-level engine. In addition to the sophisticated chassis technology with McPherson struts at the front axle and the central control arm rear axle, which is itself unique in the small car segment, the electromechanical EPAS (Electrical Power Assisted Steering) is a further guarantee of reliable and precise handling. The electrical servomotor also contributes to efficiency in that it is only activated when steering support is required or desired by the driver.
The steering system EPAS allows various settings to be programmed. The basic set-up guarantees balanced steering support depending on road speed. With the sports button, which is positioned as standard next to the gearshift lever in the centre console in the MINI John Cooper Works and MINI John Cooper Works Clubman, it is possible to activate a perceptibly more dynamic characteristic curve with higher steering torque and increased steering precision. In keeping with this, pressing the sports button also changes the accelerator pedal to a much sportier characteristic setting.
The MINI John Cooper Works and MINI John Cooper Works Clubman are fitted with sporty suspension settings as standard. As an alternative, a sports chassis with harder damper characteristics and stronger stabilisers is available for the front and rear axle. For a more extreme racing orientation, there is also a John Cooper Works chassis available in the accessory range for the MINI John Cooper Works. It includes a lowering of the suspension by 10 millimetres, even harder damper characteristics and stabilisers with a diameter which is larger than those of the sports chassis.
The standard sports brake system guarantees short braking distances and is characterised by precise response and fine controllability. The fixed calliper disc brakes with aluminium callipers finished in red – inner vented on the front wheels and bearing the John Cooper Works emblem on the callipers – are large in their dimensions. The type and function of the brake system is based on those in the MINI CHALLENGE racing vehicle. The same applies to the exclusive 17-inch light alloy wheels in John Cooper Works Cross Spoke CHALLENGE design. Weighing less than 10 kilos, they are the lightest standard wheels within the competitive environment of the MINI John Cooper Works and MINI John Cooper Works Clubman. The high-speed tyres in 205/45 W 17 format have runflat properties, and both models are equipped with a tyre damage display function.
As standard and unique in front-wheel-drive vehicles: DSC with DTC.
In addition to sporty suspension settings and powerful brakes, the MINI John Cooper Works and MINI John Cooper Works Clubman also have sophisticated driving stability systems. Their standard equipment includes ABS, EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution), CBC (Cornering Brake Control) and DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) including hill-start assistance and DTC (Dynamic Traction Control).
By applying the brakes to individual wheels and reducing engine power, DSC applies a stabilising effect when required, intervening early on to prevent the vehicle from swerving at the front or rear wheels in especially dynamic driving situations or on slippery surfaces. The brake assistance function, likewise an element of DSC, detects emergency braking situations and ensures instant build-up of maximum brake pressure should the need arise.
DTC is a sub-function of DSC which is available here for the first time in a vehicle with front wheel drive. It enables the response threshold levels of driving stability regulation to be increased so as to allow controllable slip on the drive wheels. In this way, the models MINI John Cooper Works and MINI John Cooper Works Clubman can be controlled on snow-covered surfaces or loose sand with slightly spinning front wheels, or taken more intensively to the physical limits in highly dynamic driving situations. When the threshold range is reached, the stabilising intervention of DSC is also guaranteed in DTC mode. If necessary, DSC can be entirely deactivated.
What is more, in DSC-Off mode an electronically controlled lock function for the differential of the drive axle is activated. This system is also a standard feature and known as Electronic Differential Lock Control: it supports an ambitious, sporty driving style when accelerating out of bends and hairpins, for example. The electronically controlled lock function has the effect of applying specific, appropriate brake force to a spinning drive wheel on tight bends.
This enhances the forward propulsion of the vehicle without having a negative impact on self-steering response. The bend can thus be taken more smoothly but also more swiftly.
Interior: sports car ambience and a wide range of individualisation options.
In the interior, the standard fittings of the MINI John Cooper Works and the MINI John Cooper Works Clubman boast a strikingly impressive elegance which is both simple and sporty in style. A three-spoke steering wheel in leather is the point of connection between the driver and his sports machine, while the anthracite roof liner and the interior surfaces in a glossy Piano Black finish create a calm atmosphere which promotes concentration on the road. Another feature of the two top-of-the-range sports cars is a speedometer scale which goes up to 260 km/h.
In addition, MINI also offers a wide range of individualisation options for configuring the two new extreme sports cars. In terms of exterior paint finishes, interior design, seat upholstery types, interior colours and decor options as well as the comfort features, the full breadth of variety is available as for the other model variations. Additional comfort, versatility and sporty flair can be achieved with items from the extensive accessory range of MINI and of John Cooper Works.
Ten exterior paint finishes are available to choose from for the MINI John Cooper Works and the MINI John Cooper Works Clubman. Contrasting roof finishes and roof decor options provide a wide range of possible combinations. The basic fittings of the interior include seat covers in the fabric Chequered. Optional extras include leather upholsteries, sports seats with fabric/leather covers, sports leather seats and Recaro sports seats from the John Cooper Works accessory program. The decor strips of the interior can be selected in Fluid Silver as an alternative to Piano Black. The accessory program also includes an interior strip in Carbon.
The high-quality entertainment and navigation systems of the MINI equipment range are also available for the two top-of-the-range sports cars. The controls of the audio system – with CD player as standard – and the 6 ½ inch TFT colour display of the optional navigation system are situated in the central circular instrument. The standard AUX socket enables music saved on an MP3 player to be played through the audio system, for example. A special interface for full integration of an Apple iPod is also available as an accessory. For optimum and safe communication on the road there is an optional mobile phone preparation or integrated hands-free facility with Bluetooth interface and USB connection. An interface for integrated operation of the audio and telephone functions is also specially available for the Apple iPhone.
Performance at premium level: John Cooper Works accessories.
The highlights of the John Cooper Works accessory program include the aerodynamics package and sports chassis with springs finished in red for the MINI John Cooper Works, as well as perforated brake discs and rear spoilers for both model versions. Other items include a suspension cross-brace for the engine compartment, mirror caps in carbon finish and so-called side scuttles – direction indicator surrounds with a sporty grid structure. To match this there are also decor strips, handbrake handles and sports gearshift levers in carbon decor which provide an even sportier ambience. The gear shift indicator in the John Cooper Works accessory program also contributes to an intensive driving experience.
With the John Cooper Works Performance components, the character of the two new models is given even greater emphasis and visually highlighted, too. Premium-quality sporty flair characterises them as it does the two new models themselves, both of which bear the John Cooper Works logo.
The MINI John Cooper Works and MINI John Cooper Works Clubman
have to be able to meet both the extreme challenges of the race track as well as the extensive requirements of everyday traffic in terms of functionality, design, reliability and durability. Together, the brands MINI and John Cooper Works stand for a promise of quality which is uniquely powerful within the competitive environment of MINI.
MINI and John Cooper Works: shared roots in motor racing.The two top sports cars are sold through the MINI dealer network. Like all variations of the MINI and MINI Clubman, both models are manufactured at the MINI plant in
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MINI’s second generation Cabriolet model has been scooped by Car Online’s spy photographers practically undisguised. Then again, why would anyone go into the trouble trying to camouflage the new Cabriolet; unless you’re a fanatic or you're working for MINI, chances are that you’ll most probably take it for the current generation model.
However, just like the new hatch version, the Cabriolet is slightly longer than the current model and it features a revised interior. Also, the engine range will be completely overhauled as the 2009 MINI Cabriolet will be offered with the new BMW-PSA developed units instead of the Chrysler-sourced motors. The line-up will include a 95 HP 1.4, a 120HP 1.6, a 175 HP 1.6 and a 110 HP 1.6 Turbodiesel unit.
Via: Car Online
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Here we go again; the list with Chinese knockoffs has been enhanced with the addition of a MINI clone made by a carmaker called Lifan. The Lifan 3-Series (how ironic…) was introduced to the Chinese media today, and according to the translation we made from the clonemaker’s official site, the MINI(cat) will go on sale in China during the first half of the year.
Amusingly, Lifan decided to create a 5-door version of BMW Group’s MINI. Even though the Lifan 320 is somewhat disproportioned compared to the original MINI, it doesn’t take a rocket scientist to see the resemblances between the two cars. Check out other Chinese clones here: Cadillac, Smart, Fiat Panda, Scion & Toyota RAV-4 -More pictures of the Chinese MINI after the jump
Official Statement (translated from Chinese)
Tencent vehicle - Recently, the Lifan 320 Weijiao finally lifted the veil of mystery. We have seen through the picture, Lifan The compact cars and MINI very similar, will produce cars there will not be much change. No accident, the first half of this year, this compact cars will be met with consumers. Reportedly, which amounted to 2.6 m wheelbase cars.
Via: Le Blog Auto , Images via: Lefan
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BMW Group issued a press release today stating that the forthcoming MINI Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) will be built by Magna Steyr in Graz, Austria, which also makes the BMW X3 model. The Bavarian Groups’ decision to hand the contract to Magna Steyr is quite a blow to the German company Karmann who also wanted to build MINI’s crossover.
BMW execs support that the outsourcing production of the MINI SAV will enable the company to increase flexibility within its own production network allowing the lead plant for MINI production in
Frank-Peter Arndt, Head of Production and Member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, said: "By using Magna Steyr for production, we are able to give our own Production Network some breathing space to respond fully to market needs. This solution will also allow us to bring the MINI SAV to the market as quickly as possible."
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Joining the MINI Hatch and Convertible models, which have sold over one million models since 2001, the new MINI Clubman (details & pics here) has gone on sale in the
UK prices for the MINI Clubman are set at £14,235 ($30,200 or €20,500) for the 120Hp 1.6L Cooper, £15,400 ($32,500 or €22,100) for the 110Hp 1.6L diesel-powered Cooper D and £17,210 ($36,300 or €24,700) for the 175Hp turbocharged 1.6L Cooper S.
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Set to make its official debut at the 2008 Geneva Motor Show next spring, the MINI Clubman JCW (John Cooper Works) follows in the footsteps of its 3door sibling featuring cosmetic and performance upgrades. Though we’ve yet to see an official press release, it’s apparent that the JCW’s aero kit includes front and rear bumper fascias, chromed exhaust pipes, racing stripes, carbon fiber side mirrors and bonnet scoop, side skirts and new alloy wheels (probably 18-inch). -Continued after the jump