McLaren releases astonishing P1 performance figures

McLaren took the wraps off its upcoming P1 supercar nearly five months ago at the Paris Motor Show, but the automaker refused to release details about its interior, powerplant or performance – those juicy details would all have to wait.

Yet after a private showing in New York, followed by another exclusive event in Beverly Hills, McLaren began to slowly trickle out information about the P1's instrument cluster and passenger cabin, before finally disclosing its 903 horsepower hybrid powerplant earlier this month.

Finally, after much speculation, McLaren has revealed the last piece of the puzzle and announced its tested performance figures. The 100 km/h benchmark (62 mph) falls in "less than three seconds" while the 200 km/h barrier (124 mph) is shattered in "under seven seconds." Lastly, the rear-wheel drive P1 will hit 300 km/h (186 mph) in "no more than 17 seconds" (an impressive 11 seconds faster than its legendary McLaren F1). Those blistering numbers put the P1 among a very small and elite group, with members like Bugatti, Koenigsegg and Hennessey – the fastest road cars on the planet.

If you are wondering how much it costs to embarrass a Ferrari, McLaren also broke its pricing embargo today. Base price, in the United States, is a cool $1,150,000.

McLaren Automotive announces performance figures for the McLaren P1™

• Instant Power Assist System (IPAS) provides astonishing acceleration: 0 to 300 km/h (186 mph) in less than 17 seconds, more than 35% faster than the legendary McLaren F1
• Top speed electronically limited to 350 km/h (218 mph)
• The production number has been limited to 375 units
• Base price in the US is $1,150,000
• Fully equipped as standard for road and track use
•  Production model is almost unchanged from the original design study

McLaren Automotive has announced the final numbers, images and information relating to the McLaren P1™ ahead of a global reveal in just a few days at the 83rd International Geneva Motor Show.

The race-inspired Instant Power Assist System (IPAS) gives the McLaren P1™ astonishing performance. Zero to 100km/h (62 mph) will take less than 3 seconds, zero to 200 km/h (124 mph) in under 7 seconds, and zero to 300 km/h (186 mph) will be achieved in no more than 17 seconds. This is 11 seconds faster than the legendary McLaren F1 road car. Top speed is electronically limited to 350 km/h (218 mph).

The McLaren P1™ has translated to production form with very little changed from the prototype shown at the Paris Auto Show. In fact just one change-the addition of LTR ducts ahead of each of the front wheels to further aid cooling and optimise downforce.

McLaren has announced a global production number of just 375 units – a figure that will ensure the McLaren P1™ will remain a rarity.

McLaren has also announced that the car will have a base price of $1,150,000 in the US and have a specification that fully equips the car for both road and track use. The company prides itself on designing performance cars that their owners can use regularly so the McLaren P1™ comes standard with a comprehensive specification list. The options list is limited to only bespoke content that a customer might wish to add through McLaren Special Operations, and fitted luggage.

As already announced, the McLaren P1™ will have the combined force of two highly-efficient powerplants, offering the optimum mix of superb throttle response, day-to-day drivability and top speed. A mid-mounted 3.8-litre twin-turbo V8 petrol engine is substantially enhanced featuring, for example, larger turbochargers and a highly effective electric motor, to give a combined output of 916PS (903 bhp) and a maximum torque figure of 900Nm. This ensures instantaneous throttle response through the rev range, more akin to a naturally aspirated engine. Emissions of less than 200g/km on the EU combined cycle are reduced to zero in full electric drive mode, while the Formula 1-derived DRS and IPAS technologies offer an increase in straight-line speed and an instant boost of power.

The tires fitted to the McLaren P1™ are specially developed P Zero Corsas, which have been developed with McLaren's technology partner, Pirelli. The team at Pirelli has been involved throughout the entire development program, and this has seen the tire testing phase integrated into the schedule, as a key performance component. The final compound and construction has been developed and optimised during testing, and the end result is a tire that is finely tuned specifically to the performance and handling characteristics.

To rein in the power produced by the twin powerplants, the McLaren P1™ is designed to offer braking performance more associated with a GT3 or sports racing car. Developed by McLaren's Formula 1 partner Akebono, the system features a new type of carbon ceramic disc, which has previously seen service in space, but never before used on a road car. Stronger than conventional carbon ceramic, the material dissipates heat more effectively, giving the highly efficient braking system exceptional stopping and cooling capability. The system also boasts significantly reduced weight, and a bespoke ceramic layer coats both friction surfaces to give an attractive mirrored finish.

The car can also be driven solely in electric mode. In city driving, with an average speed of 30 mph, this could mean up to a 20km range. More than enough for an owner to enter, for example, a city center Zero Emissions Zone, have dinner and return home.

Articles Source : Autoblog

Audi builds 5-millionth vehicle with Quattro

Quattro, the trademark name Audi has put on its all-wheel-drive system engineered for passenger vehicles, recently celebrated its five-millionth installation. The driveline has been offered in more than 140 different vehicles since its introduction more than three decades ago.

The all-wheel-drive technology made its world debut at the 1980 International Geneva Motor Show, beneath the floorpan of the Quattro Coupé, a low-volume two-door. It didn't take consumers long to embrace Audi's innovative approach. While most four-wheel-drive systems at that time utilized heavy transfer cases or second cardan shafts, Quattro was virtually tension-free, light, compact and efficient. Most importantly, enthusiasts found it was especially suitable for sports cars.

Today, the automaker offers Quattro on its full line of passenger vehicles and it is unquestionably successful (the technology enjoyed a 43 percent take rate in 2012). On models with transverse-mounted engines (A3 and TT), Audi uses an electronically controlled multi-plate clutch with hydraulic actuator. Under normal conditions, the clutch sends power almost exclusively to the front wheels (if wheel slippage occurs, up to 100 percent of the torque may be sent to the rear). Vehicles with engines mounted longitudinally (A4, A5, Q5, etc...) use a self-locking center differential sending 40 percent of the engine torque to the front axle and 60 percent to the rear under normal conditions (it is able to send the majority of the power to the axle with better traction when needed). The highest-performing Quattro systems use torque vectoring to further improve cornering grip and speeds.

Articles Source : Autoblog

Abarth To Show Four New "Fuori Serie" Creations In Geneva

Fiat, like MINI, knows that that buyers of its 500 Abarth models want to personalize their rides. Unlike MINI, which specializes in primarily cosmetic changes, Abarth has launched a program that gives customers an even broader-scope upgrade and customization path.

Introduced at last September’s Paris Auto Show, Fiat’s “Fuori Serie” customization service for 500 Abarth models allows customers to consult with Abarth’s designers and engineers to create one-of-a-kind hot hatch. From unique trim through custom graphics and interior upgrades, Fuori Serie changes are limited primarily by the shopper’s budget.

To demonstrate the intent behind the program, Fiat showed a Fuori Serie Abarth 500 in Paris that was influenced by the Fiat Abarth 131 Mirafiori ‘Olio Fiat’ rally car from the 1970s. In addition to its blue-with-yellow graphics, the car received a custom suspension, Brembo brakes and engine upgrades to boost output to 180-horsepower.

At this year’s Geneva Motor Show, Abarth will again show off its Fuori Serie program with offerings in both the “New Heritage” collection, which pays tribute to the history of Abarth racing, and the “New Wave” collection, with a nod towards the latest design trends

Representing the New Heritage collection will be the Abarth 695 “Record,” based on the Abarth 750 Record Bertone, and the Abarth 695 “Scorpione,” based on the A112 and 124 Abarth.

The Fuori Serie New Wave models will be depicted by the Abarth 695 “Hype,” aimed at younger buyers who favor cutting-edge trends, while the Abarth 695 “Black Diamond” is targeted to buyers seeking a bit more refinement and style.

All Fuori Serie cars, however, begin with a turbocharged 1.4-liter engine tuned to produce 180 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque and bolted to a paddle-shifted automated manual transmission.

The front suspension is a MacPherson strut design, while the rear is a torsion beam setup with unique calibration and an anti-roll bar. Dampers are adjustable units from Koni, and front brakes are from Brembo.

There’s still no word on whether or not the Fuori Serie service will be offered in the United States, but our instincts say it isn’t likely. The 500 Abarth is selling well enough on its own, and we imagine the Fuori Serie customization would price the Abarth beyond a point American buyers are comfortable with. 

Articles Source : Motorauthority

Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Coupe Electric Drive Show

This is, arguably, the least practical of the current crop of high-end electric cars, but we don't really care.

Gullwings, SLS AMG looks, a hot electric blue exterior, and up to 155 miles of all-electric driving range? Sign us up. The SLS AMG Coupe Electric Drive is a winner.

Also, for once, we're not really bummed they put music over the sound the car driving--because it's nearly silent.

Of course, we'd rather have the snarling, awesome 6.2-liter V-8 in the 2013 SLS AMG GT, but we wouldn't kick this one out of bed for eating electrons.

Articles Source : Motorauthority

Next Dodge Viper ACR Could Land In 2014: Report

The last Dodge Viper ACR (for American Club Racing) rolled off the assembly line in 2010, boasting the same 600 horsepower and 560 pound-feet of torque from its V-10 engine as standard Viper models. Weight on ACR models was reduced by up to 90 pounds by gutting the interior, while the suspension and brakes were upgraded for track use.

The car’s functional aero package produced around 1,200 pounds of downforce at 150 miles per hour, and in September of 2011 a Viper ACR turned a lap time of 7:12.13 on Germany’s fabled Nürburgring circuit.

Depending upon your definition of a “production car,” that could make the 2010 Viper ACR the fastest production car around the ‘Ring, though the ultra-low volume Gumpert Apollo Sport, Radical SR8 and Radical SR8 LM have all pasted up quicker laps.

We’ve heard previous rumors that the new SRT Viper would be built in ACR form as well, but now Motor Trend says it has confirmation from a “high-level” source at Chrysler that the ACR is under development and scheduled for a 2014 release.

Word is that the car would come to market sooner, if tire-supplier Michelin would only sell its Pilot Sport Cup product to SRT. The Viper’s Pirelli tires don’t return the same level of performance, so SRT has requested that Pirelli develop a tire specifically for the Viper ACR, and that takes time.

As for why Michelin reportedly won’t sell its Pilot Sport Cup tires to SRT, the answer is simple: they’re delivered on the range-topping Corvette ZR1, and Michelin isn’t going to endanger its relationship with GM.

Like the previous Viper ACR, the new model isn’t expected to produce more horsepower (to the delight of aftermarket suppliers), but it will serve up track-ready brakes, an adjustable (but track-focused) suspension, functional aerodynamics and weight savings via the deletion of luxury items.

Developing tires is tricky business, so it’s hard to say when the new SRT Viper ACR will hit the market in 2014. The same can be said of price, which, we suppose, will be determined by how many trick parts the new Viper ACR uses.

Can the next Viper ACR best its father’s time around the ‘Ring, or will Chevrolet serve up even more performance in its next Corvette ZR1? Regardless of which car pastes up a faster time, the real winners will be those lucky enough to park these supercars in their garage.

Articles Source : Motorauthority

Hennessey Performance To Build A 1,000 Horsepower Corvette Stingray

The 2014 Corvette Stingray won’t begin shipping to dealerships until the third quarter of 2013, but those planning a purchase can already put together a holiday wish list, thanks to Hennessey Performance Engineering.

While the C7 Corvette Stingray will come to market with 450 horsepower and 450 pound-feet of torque, that’s just not enough thrust for some buyers. Yes, a new Z06 (with up to 600 horsepower) and a new ZR1 (which will target 700 hp) are in the works, but don’t expect either before sometime in 2014.

In the mean time, those with a hardcore need for speed can reach out to Hennessey, which promises to offer supercharger systems to bump the Stingray’s output to 700 horsepower, or twin-turbo systems that will deliver between 800 and 1,000 horsepower.

If the cost (in terms of both dollars and engine life) is more than you’re willing to spend, Hennessey will also offer up bolt-on upgrades that will yield a more modest increase in performance, like cold-air intakes, headers and catalyst-back exhaust systems.

If you’re happy with the as-delivered 450 ponies, Hennessey can still sell you wheel and tire packages, Brembo brake systems and suspension upgrades, to name but a few go-fast options from the company behind the Venom GT supercar.

We’re not sure how far along in the development process Hennessey is, since its website says the parts are planned, not in stock. While you may not be able to park an 800-horsepower, Hennessey-tuned Stingray in the garage a week after you get your C7, we’re sure Hennessey will beat the next ZR1 to market by a comfortable margin.

If you’ve got a 2014 Corvette Stingray on order and want to up its game, head on over to the Hennessey Performance Engineering website for contact information. 

Articles Source : Motorauthority

2014 McLaren P1

McLaren Automotive has released the final numbers, images and information relating to its phenomenal McLaren P1™ ahead of a global reveal at the 83rd International Geneva Motor Show.

2014 McLaren P1

2014 McLaren P1

2014 McLaren P1

2014 McLaren P1

2014 McLaren P1

The race-inspired Instant Power Assist System (IPAS) gives the McLaren P1™ astonishing performance. Zero to 100km/h will take less than 3 seconds, zero to 200 km/h under 7 seconds, and zero to 300 km/h will be achieved in no more than 17 seconds. Putting that into perspective, that's 5 seconds faster than the legendary McLaren F1 road car. Top speed is electronically limited to 350 km/h.

McLaren has been engaging with potential customers actively in the last few months to get their views on the McLaren P1™, about the car's styling. Their unanimous verdict on the styling was not to change the car presented last September in Paris. So unusually, the McLaren P1™ has translated to production form with very little change. In fact just one, the addition of LTR ducts ahead of each of the front wheels to further aid cooling and optimise downforce.

McLaren has closely monitored demand so as to maintain exclusivity, and announced a production number of just 375 units - a figure that will ensure the McLaren P1™ will remain a rarity and, if spotted on the road, an unforgettable sight.

McLaren has also announced that the car will cost from £866,000 on the road with a specification that fully equips the car for both road and track use. The company prides itself on designing performance cars that their owners can use regularly so the McLaren P1™ comes comprehensively equipped as standard with an array of colour and trim alternatives from which the customer will be able to choose as well as visible carbon fibre in the cabin. The options list is limited to only bespoke content that a customer might wish to add through McLaren Special Operations, and fitted luggage.

As already announced, the McLaren P1™ will have the combined force of two highly-efficient powerplants, offering the optimum mix of superb throttle response, day-to-day drivability and top speed. A mid-mounted 3.8-litre twin-turbo V8 petrol engine is substantially enhanced featuring, for example, larger turbochargers and a highly effective electric motor, to give a combined output of 916PS (903 bhp) and a maximum torque figure of 900Nm. This ensures instantaneous throttle response through the rev range, more akin to a naturally aspirated engine. Emissions of less than 200g/km on the combined cycle are reduced to zero in full electric drive mode, while the Formula 1-derived DRS and IPAS technologies offer an increase in straight-line speed and an instant boost of power.

The tyres fitted to the McLaren P1™ are specially developed P Zero Corsas, which have been developed with McLaren's technology partner, Pirelli. The team at Pirelli has been involved throughout the entire development programme, and this has seen the tyre testing phase integrated into the schedule, as a key performance component. The final compound and construction has been developed and optimised during testing, and the end result is a tyre that is finely tuned specifically to the performance and handling characteristics.

To rein in the power produced by the twin powerplants, the McLaren P1™ is designed to offer braking performance more associated with a GT3 or sports racing car. Developed by McLaren's Formula 1 partner Akebono, the system features a new type of carbon ceramic disc, which has previously seen service in space, but never before used on a road car. Stronger than conventional carbon ceramic, the material dissipates heat more effectively, giving the highly efficient braking system exceptional stopping and cooling capability. The system also boasts significantly reduced weight, and a bespoke ceramic layer coats both friction surfaces to give an attractive mirrored finish.

One surprising feature is that the car can also be driven solely in electric mode. In city driving, with an average speed of 30 mph, this could mean up to a 20km range. More than enough for an owner to enter, for example, a city centre Zero Emissions Zone, have dinner and return home.

Articles Source : Netcarshow