Renaultsport Releases new Formula 2.0 car

Faster, more modern, cheaper

The development phase for New Formula Renault 2.0 is drawing to a close with more than 6,000km driven over seventeen days of testing on nine European circuits. This new single seater, developed and manufactured by Renault Sport Technologies is faster, while being a reliable as ever and with basic running costs 10% lower than its predecessor.

The replacement for the world's best selling single-seater is truly ready for the track. New Formula Renault 2.0 has proved its reliability and its capability in a rigorous Research and Development programme. First impressions, New Formula Renault 2.0 is more competitive and its handling is closer to cars from higher formulas. As with its predecessor, New Formula Renault 2.0 is the ideal car for training the F1 drivers of tomorrow, such as Kimi Raïkkonen, Felipe Massa, Lewis Hamilton, Haikki Kovalainen, Robert Kubica, Romain Grosjean or Jaime Alguersuari, all of whom have passed through the ranks of Formula Renault 2.0.


The operating costs for New Formula Renault 2.0 are 10% lower than the current version. At 57,000€ (ex-VAT*), this car benefits from the most up-to-the-minute technical developments, including a seven-speed semi-automatic gearbox. A single set of ratios is selected for each season and the semi-automatic gearbox allow, among other things, to avoid overspeed. Even the design of the car has been optimized thanks to Renault Sport Technologies' competition experience, in order to reduce the number of parts , which allows significant economies of scale. Furthermore, assembly will take place at the Alpine plant with an optimized process. Each car will be inspected and prepared for racing prior to delivery.

New Formula Renault 2.0 has been conceived to be as economical as possible. With this in mind, significant work has gone into the development of the tyres. A set is now able to drive more than 200km. As a result the allocation of tyres goes from 33 sets to 29 in 2010. As for the brakes, the efficiency has been optimized in order to enhance their longevity. A set of disks now has a service-life of 1,500km and a set of pads, 600km. As a result the driving costs have fallen by 15% with the advent of the new version.



Finally, the costs for the engine, as fitted to Clio Renault Sport MkII, which develops 205bhp, are close to those of the current version, with a major service recommended every 5,500km.

Safety is also key to New Formula Renault 2.0. Thanks to in depth work and several safety tests, New Formula Renault 2.0 is the first single-seater to be homologated to FIA F3 2001 standards. Driver safety is significantly enhanced, making New Formula Renault 2.0 a benchmark.

New Formula Renault 2.0 remains true to its philosophy. This car, which takes to the track in 2010 for the Eurocup Formula Renault 2.0 and in all national championships, is aimed at young drivers who are just discovering the workings of a real race car. The handling of the new car will allow them to understand more easily than ever how it feels to drive a Formula Renault 3.5. The training programme, unique of its type, which Renault Sport Technologies has put in place, also reaches new heights with New Formula Renault 2.0.

*Price subject to entry in an official Renault Sport Championship.


FIRST UK TEST FOR NEW FORMULA RENAULT 2.0 RACE CAR

Northamptonshire's Rockingham Motor Speedway provided the setting for the first UK test of the new Formula Renault 2.0 race car.

Former Formula Renault UK Champion Duncan Tappy, who took a total of 10 victories during his 2007 winning season, was tasked with piloting the new 2.0-litre car which makes its competitive debut at the start of the 2010 Michelin Formula Renault UK Championship.

Tappy completed a handful of laps around the 1.94-mile International circuit before returning to the pits to pass on his feedback to watching teams and drivers.



The new car replaces the current Tatuus-built model and features a new chassis, seven-speed sequential gearbox, and a 2.0-litre, 16v normally-aspirated F4R832 engine. The car is currently being built at the Renaultsport factory in Dieppe, France, with the first deliveries expected before the end of the year.

Commenting after the test Tappy said: "I last tested the outgoing car in 2008 which meant I had something fresh to compare the new car too. My first impressions are that it is a much more together, more stable car which I believe drivers will find more enjoyable and ultimately more rewarding to drive.

"The car lends itself to more of an F3 driving style and at high speeds you can really feel the aerodynamics working. The paddle-shift gearbox is also very easy to use with smooth changes both up and down. Overall I have to say it's a better all-round package."
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Latest spy shots: 2011 BMW 6-Series

The design of the upcoming 6-Series will certainly be taking cues from the current 7-Series but also be inspired by the CS Concept. The wide grill and headlamps providing for a mean-eyed cat look fitting to the performance model's identity.


Spy photographer reports that there has been a dry spell in spotting the upcoming 6-Series in testing (since spring) because BMW insiders say there have been some hiccups in the brand's development of the performance coupe/convertible.


According to insiders it appears they've settled upon a rigid roof coupe plus a canvas-top convertible version as indicated with shots of this 6-Series with a canvas only roof as confirmed by our spy photographer who checked inside and knocked on it with his hand.


BMW had some trouble deciding whether the 6-Series would come only as a single model convertible with a folding hardtop, or as two models - a rigid roof coupe and a convertible with a soft top. That would explain why previous prototypes were spotted with an ill-fitting canvas top laid over a supposed folding hard top.
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More Details For 2010 Saleen S281

2010 SALEEN S281: DYNAMIC IN FORM AND FUNCTION.

Saleen Performance Vehicles today unveiled the first in its 2010 premiere line of high-performance cars, the 2010 Saleen S281. The introduction took place at the annual SEMA (Specialty Equipment Market Association) Show at the Las Vegas Convention Center. This is the second Saleen vehicle launched this year, following the 2010 435S introduced in August.

The S281, based on the 2010 Ford Mustang, displays a premium level of design consideration, both exterior and interior, with performance to match. It builds on the Saleen tradition of offering limited-edition, high-performance vehicles for enthusiasts who are looking for an exhilarating driving experience, with refined driveability for real-world road conditions.


"For more than 25 years the Saleen name has stood for excellence in design, engineering, and driving dynamics," said Mike Shields, CEO of Saleen Performance Vehicles. "The new S281 is an excellent example of what those words mean when we craft concepts into real cars. Our team has done a terrific job; I'm proud of them and proud to be offering this car to our customers."

The S281's exterior design features carefully crafted sculptural detailing, with lines and forms that flow naturally and suggest suppleness, power and agility. It features an understated yet imposing grille and front fascia, and a refined treatment of the familiar Saleen extended rear fascia and trunk lid with a simple, elegant, integrated wing.


"Our goal was to create the most visually enticing American sports car ever," said David Byron, design director at Saleen Performance Vehicles. "Ford provided the perfect launching pad with the 2010 Mustang, which allowed our team to create a car that's world class and authentically Saleen. We painstakingly toiled over every bend and break in the body and every stitch and fold in the interior."


The S281's 4.6-liter V8 engine is equipped with a Saleen Series VI.5 twin-screw supercharger and dual-stage intercooler. It produces 485 hp and 460 lb.-ft. of torque, sent to the rear wheels through a short-throw, five-speed manual transmission and a limited-slip differential with 3.73:1 final drive ratio.

The Saleen Racecraft suspension system is new, and includes specially tuned, single-rate front and rear springs; nitrogen-pressurized front struts and rear shocks with a wide range of damping adjustments; and a specially tuned front sway bar with performance pivot bushings.


The interior features new, leather sport seats with Ultra-Suede inserts, highlighted by chevron-like Ultra-Suede red tabs in the seatback bolsters, and unique treatments of the gauges, steering wheel, center console and shifter. There also are contrasting Saleen logos in the door panels, and Saleen logos in the door sill plates that illuminate when the door is opened.

Additional exterior highlights include unique, 20-inch, 7-spoke alloy wheels with Pirelli P-Zero Rosso high-performance tires, and Saleen S281 Supercharged fender badging.


About Saleen Performance Vehicles

Saleen Performance Vehicles is a manufacturer of limited-edition, high-performance cars and trucks, head-quartered in Troy, Michigan. Saleen vehicles embody sophistication in engineering, styling and performance, resulting in a dynamic driving experience that is both exhilarating and refined. Together with its sister companies, Control-Tec LLC, Power-Tec LLC and its subsidiary, Arrow Racing Engines, Saleen encompasses a broad range of capabilities and services in automotive design, development and manufacturing. For more information, please visit the Saleen Performance Vehicles website at www.saleen.com.
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PETTY'S GARAGE NOW TURNING OUT CUSTOM MACHINES

The change at 311 Branson Mill Road in Level Cross, N.C., a facility that has produced more race winners than any other shop in the history of NASCAR, is amazing. The employees of a newly-formed Petty's Garage are transplanting that legacy of success into a new endeavor producing performance automobiles there. The first car from the historic garage will be a custom 2009 Dodge Challenger to be sold for charity at the Barrett-Jackson Auction in January 2010.



"For 61 years, Petty Enterprises built, engineered and raced some of the most-historic cars in all of NASCAR right from this shop," said 'The King' Richard Petty. "You're talking about Plymouth Belvederes, Superbirds, Road Runners, Torino's and Dodge Chargers. When racecars went from being a purely production car to a car built from the ground up, or modified, solely for racing, many of them came out of Level Cross. We are proud of what we were able to accomplish here and it was important for us to keep this place going."





Over the years, Petty Enterprises garnered 268 wins in what is now the Sprint Cup Series, ten championships and nine Daytona 500 wins from this facility. Now, Petty's Garage will focus on the manufacturing of performance vehicles, including the "museum-quality" restoration of vintage race vehicles, custom cars and high performance street vehicles. The first complete car project is the build of a Dodge Challenger to be sold at the Barrett-Jackson collector car auction in January of 2010 by the Petty Family Foundation (PFF). The proceeds of the sale will benefit the PFF and the charities it supports.



Established in 1971 and headquartered in Scottsdale, Ariz., Barrett-Jackson specializes in providing products and services to collector car owners, astute collectors and automotive enthusiasts around the world. The company produces "The World's Greatest Collector Car Auctions™" in Scottsdale, Palm Beach, Fla., Las Vegas and Orange County, Calif. Barrett-Jackson also endorses a one-of-a-kind insurance offering for collector vehicles and other valued belongings.





"Richard Petty made a huge impact at our Scottsdale event earlier this year when he helped sell another MOPAR for charity," stated Steve Davis, president of Barrett-Jackson. "We're pleased that he chose one of our world class automotive lifestyle events to showcase the shop's talents and raise money for such a fantastic charity. It will be truly a historic event where someone will get to own a well-documented car built by the one and only, Richard Petty."





The 2009 Dodge Challenger was completely disassembled and placed on a rotisserie so it could be painted the trademark Petty Blue by BASF R ̶ M. Reassembly included a Late Model 426 Hemi by Arrington Engines with 585 hp, Pedders suspension upgrades, Brembo Gran Turismo brakes, a new Corsa Exhaust system with a Petty's Garage custom center exhaust exit and refinished all of the suspension to Petty Parts Blue by BASF R ̶ M. Body Modifications consisted of a Petty's Garage custom front fascia and rear bumper cover, Petty's Garage custom rocker panels, rear spoiler and Petty's Garage branded interior seats and door panels.





"This Challenger is special to me because I wanted to build something that I would drive on a daily basis," stated Petty. "I wanted the car to have a race car look, but be functional on the street and I think the guys really captured that. But most importantly it provides our foundation with the platform to help our Veterans, children with life threatening illness and our neighbors in need. Everyone at Petty's Garage is excited about getting this Challenger to Barrett-Jackson in January. I think it will do well when we get there. It definitely shows our capabilities and the auction will put us in front of the right people to show what we can do."

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Wheelsandmore Aston Martin DB9 Volante

Aston Martin DB9 Convertible is already a pleasure to the human eye but some people around the world are struggling to go beyond that. The engineers over at Wheelsandmore are surely the best example in this matter as they recently presented a set of new modifications for this particular model, improving both the look and the performance figures.


First up is a performance upgrade for the 6.0 liter V12 engine with 476 hp and 600 Nm (442 lb-ft) of torque that comes with the production version. Wheelsandmore boosts that by 60 hp while adding 68 Nm (50 lb-ft) of torque too. They've done so by tinkering with the ECU and adding a stainless-steel sport exhaust system with 200-cell sport catalysts and noise-volume valve control.


There's a whole new bodykit that makes the car even more aggressive - who thought that such a thing would be possible on the DB9 Convertible? The exterior package comprises side skirts, front and rear aprons, rear lid spoiler and a Kahn RS-V wheelset in 0 x 20-inch size and wrapped in Dunlop Sport Maxx tires 255/35/20 front and 285/30/20 rear.


The DB9 also gets a new body kit made of polyurethane along with side skirts, front and rear aprons and a rear lid spoiler.

Suspension-lowering is part of the package with the DB9 sitting 25 mm lower.


Aston Martin DB9 convertible, also known as Volante, is powered by the same 6.0-liter engine as the coupe flavor, with maximum output going to 470 bhp. Thanks to this engine, the car is capable of reaching a maximum speed of 300 km/h (that's around 186 mph), while sprinting from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.9 seconds.
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TECHART program for Porsche 997 - New performance kit for noticeably more power

Leonberg, November 2009 - With unmistakable styling, TECHART presented its tuning suite for the latest Porsche 911 Carrera 4S at the IAA International Motor Show. This customized Porsche combines perfect styling, sportiness and dynamism, and embodies yet again the basic principle of all TECHART products: OEM quality - Made in Germany. The new performance kit is now also available with immediate effect. The components include the "Racing" flap-controlled exhaust system as well as new engine electronics for a significant boost in power output, by up to 35 hp.

New TECHART performance kit
TECHART has developed a performance kit for the Porsche Carrera S as well as the 4S four-wheel drive version that you can hear and feel. The kit includes new ECU software as well as a new "Racing" flap-controlled exhaust system. The exhaust system includes two stainless steel racing headers as well as a sports catalytic converter, rear muffler with exhaust flap, an exhaust flap control unit and twin oval tailpipes in high-gloss or black chrome. Drivers can choose between a sporty sound close to that of a production vehicle or a powerful racing car sound. Altogether the new performance kit delivers a clearly noticeable increase in power output of 35 hp - in the upper engine speed range. There is also the option of a pure flap-controlled exhaust system, the "Sport" model, which does not offer any increase in power output but does deliver the same customized sound experience. This system is comprised of a rear muffler with exhaust flap, exhaust flap control unit and twin oval tailpipes in high-gloss or black chrome.


Aerodynamics and design
The TÜV-certified Aerokit I is the successful outcome of intensive development work in the wind tunnel. At the same time, the PUR-RIM components fitted increase the downforce on the axles and also improve the driving stability. The front spoiler I underscores the dynamism of the 911 Carrera 4S and, by optimizing the air flow, helps to ensure effective cooling of the braking system. At the same time, side skirts emphasize the powerful contours. Depending on requirements, a roof spoiler and three versions of rear wings permit precision aerodynamic tuning on the rear axle. By way of example, back pressure air vents have been integrated into the variable rear wing IV along with an additionally adjustable spoiler lip (gurney flap). The dynamic character is also emphasized by decorative trims for the exterior mirrors - made from carbon fiber painted in the requested color, decorative headlamp surrounds, a low swung rear diffuser plus the new sports exhaust systems.


TECHART suspension
Firm sporty handling is ensured by TECHART's VARIO coilover suspension in addition to a set of TECHART sports springs. The VARIO PLUS version is available for vehicles with PASM. Both systems feature coilover shock absorbers with an adjustable rebound and pressure stage plus special main and additional springs. TECHART Formula and Formula II alloy wheels, available as a five-spoke wheel in either a single-piece or composite design, underscore this sportiness. For the new 911 models, a light alloy forged wheel - the TECHART Formula III forged - is available in a twin-spoke design in a 19 and 20 inch format. By way of an option, the TECHART nose lift system is also available for negotiating curbsides and other ramps. At the touch of a button, it is possible to raise the automobile by up to 60 mm - even when driving at up to 60 km/h.


Individual in every detail - the interior
A plethora of different leather interiors, color-coordinated three-spoke airbag sports steering wheels, aluminum pedals and trim strips are just a few of the interior options available. Thanks to the TECHART craftsmanship, virtually no bounds are set when it comes to realizing a customized design. The silver-colored accentuating details are applied, for instance, to the dashboard and decorative door panels, to the trim around the infotainment system, in the center console, seat backrests and coat hooks.
via:worldcarfans

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Nissan announced NV200 Price

Nissan has announced the prices of its ground breaking new NV200, offering unbeatable CO2 emissions and load volume in its class from only £12,090*.

Recently awarded the title of Van of The Year 2010 by the Institute of Transport Management (ITM), the NV200 is available to van buyers with a vehicle to trade-in which is more than 8 years old for only £10,090, thanks to the Government’s Scrappage Scheme**.

However, don’t think for a second that tempting prices mean second-rate technology. All NV200 variants are powered by the same superbly economical 1.5-litre four-cylinder diesel engine. Returning combined fuel economy of 54mpg with best-in-class CO2 emissions of 137g/km, this Nissan’s running costs are just as thrifty as its list prices. That’s why the NV200 wears Nissan’s Pure Drive badge, which identifies it as being among the most efficient vehicles in the range.

In the UK, NV200 buyers will initially have the choice of two models. Even with its list price of only £12,090*, the entry-level E panel van comes equipped with everything from a CD audio system with MP3 aux jack to keyless entry. One step up the range to the £12,590* SE grade brings the benefit of electric front windows and a full steel bulkhead.

A Combi version complete with the option of seven seats will join the range later with prices announced closer to its launch in February.

Buyers who want to add even more to the NV200’s standard kit list can choose from some top value optional extras. The SE grade can be upgraded with air conditioning for £575, glazed rear doors for £150 and a safety pack which includes air con for only £1,000.

Nissan’s LCV sales and marketing director, Francis Bleasdale comments: “The NV200 is a brilliant addition to the Nissan range and with prices starting so low we have high hopes for it in the UK. Factor in the exceptional CO2 emissions and LCV customers will be hard pushed to make their money go further.”

*Price includes Road Fund Licence and £55 first registration fee. Price excludes VAT.
**Scrappage scheme terms and conditions apply. Savings are based on manufacturer’s recommended retail prices.

2010 Toyota 4Runner to run SCORE Baja 1000 race

Toyota 2010 Model Year 4Runner Slated for the SCORE Baja 1000
Baja 1000 4Runner: The Fifth Generation 2010 Toyota 4Runner to run in the "Stock mini" Class

TORRANCE, Calif. (Nov. 4, 2009) – Toyota will make history by entering its 2010 Model Year Fifth Generation 4Runner in the internationally renowned SCORE Baja 1000. With over 672 miles in length and a time limit of 31 hours, the Baja 1000 is one of the toughest desert races in the world.


Over 325 entries are expected from around the world to compete in the 42nd Tecate SCORE Baja 1000 – the last desert race of the season scheduled for November 20-21, in Ensenada, Mexico.

Toyota will test its newest 4Runner and showcase the SUV's capabilities and durability in the Mexican desert's treacherous terrain. "Historically, only half of the racers finish this incredible test of man and machine, but we're confident the Fifth Generation 4Runner will be a major contender in the stock mini class and can handle the grueling course", said Les Unger, Toyota's national motorsports manager.

One of the scheduled drivers will be the legendary Ivan "Ironman" Stewart – 22-time SCORE Baja race winner. Stewart has successfully conquered the toughest obstacles in off-road racing and was inducted into the Off-Road Motorsports Hall of Fame in 2006. "I'm thrilled to have been chosen to be one of the drivers to once again prove the toughness and durability of Toyota vehicles. I'm sure the Fifth Generation 4Runner will be tough enough to survive even my Iron foot", said Stewart. Co-driving the 4Runner will be the teams of Bob Ditner/Zach Zwillinger from the start line to Borrego Junction, Ken Ziesemer/Mark Sasaki throughout the San Felipe loop, Joe Nolan/Paul Williamsen from Borrego to Valle De La Trinidad, and Ivan Stewart/Bob Ditner from Valle De La Trinidad to the finish line. The 4Runner will run on General Tires and utilize the famous Baja Pits Organization throughout the course.

The 2009 Baja 1000 will be a single loop race – starting and finishing in Ensenada on the Pacific Ocean side of the magnificent peninsula and run through Mexican villages -- luring in tens of thousands of spectators.

The Fifth Generation 4Runner
The fifth generation 4Runner has an improved V6 engine with better fuel economy and 34 more horse-power than the previous V6. It also adds 17 inch wheels and two additional airbags-for a total of eight, providing buyers more than $1,700 worth of added content. However, the price of the popular four wheel drive V6 SR5 remains unchanged at $30,915. Vehicles will begin arriving at dealerships in late-November.

For Fifth Generation 4Runner specs visit: http://www.toyota.com/4runner/specs.html
Source:Toyota

CITROËN C-ZERO: THE NEW 100% ELECTRIC CITY CAR

Zero fuel consumption, zero CO2 emissions and zero engine noise: with the C-ZERO, CITROËN is broadening its compact vehicle range with a 100% electric offering.

The new city car is designed to make urban mobility easier - thanks to its compact dimensions, rapid charge and generous range for day-to-day car journeys. And all of this in a silence that makes occupants forget about the noise of the city. The C-ZERO combines technology and creativity to meet tomorrow's challenges today.

Having already produced more than 5,500 electric vehicles, CITROËN has the experience vital to being a front-runner in a market segment that is set to grow significantly in the coming years.

Due for launch in the last quarter of 2010, the C-ZERO is developed in collaboration with Mitsubishi Motors Corporation.

A NEW PRODUCT OFFERING CONSISTENT WITH CITROËN POLICY

Long committed to a policy of reducing fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, CITROËN - a leading manufacturer of low CO2 cars - is adding the C-ZERO to a range that already features a wealth of environmentally respectful products.

Current CITROËN achievements:

* New C3 and DS3 models emitting 99g/km of CO2 will be available from launch in 2010.
* More than 30% of CITROËN vehicles sold emit less than 120g/km of CO2.

Up-coming technologies:

* Widespread application of second-generation Stop & Start in 2010.
* Launch of a full-hybrid vehicle, the DS5, in 2011.

A 100% ELECTRIC VEHICLE

The CITROËN C-ZERO is a full-electric vehicle powered by a permanent magnet synchronous motor delivering 47kW or 64bhp EEC from 3,000 to 6,000rpm. Maximum torque of 180Nm is available from 0 to 2,000rpm. Power is transmitted to the rear axle via a single-speed reduction gear.

The motor is powered by a latest-generation 330-volt lithium-ion battery system comprising 88 50Ah cells (for onboard energy of 16kWh), mounted in the centre of the vehicle. Lithium-ion technology keeps battery weight down compared with conventional technology, while offering equivalent performance. It is also resistant to partial re-charges, which have no impact on battery longevity.

EASY TO CHARGE, EASY TO USE

Re-charging the C-ZERO's batteries could not be simpler. Owners plug the supply cord into a 220-volt socket. A complete charge takes six hours, while an 80% charge is possible in just 30 minutes using an external station with a single-phase current of 125A at 400V, for power of up to 50kW.

Using the car is equally simple. When the driver turns the ignition key, a beep confirms that the car is running. CITROËN C-ZERO drives like a regular car with an automatic gearbox. The traditional fuel gauge is replaced by a battery charge indicator.

PERFORMANCE & FEATURES FOR TODAY'S NEEDS

The CITROËN C-ZERO is perfectly adapted to the needs of all kinds of users - including public sector operators, local authorities, smaller businesses and company fleets - and also to those of private customers looking for a car with exceptionally low running costs.

With four real seats - thanks to a 2.55m wheelbase - and a 166 litre boot, the C-ZERO is impressively quiet to drive and boasts a plethora of comfort and safety equipment. Original-fit features include power steering, ABS, traction control, ESP, electric windows, six airbags and air conditioning.

A CITY CAR AT EASE ON THE OPEN ROAD

The C-ZERO's compact exterior dimensions - 3.48m long - and a 9m turning circle, make it a cinch to nip in and out of city traffic. And with a top speed of 130kph (80mph), acceleration from 0-100kph (0-62mph) in 15 seconds and 60-90kph (37-56mph) in 6 seconds, along with a range of around 130km (80miles), over a standard combined cycle, it is also fully at ease out on the open road.

From 10th November, via www.c-zero.citroen.com, prospective customers who are interested in being one of the first to own a CITROËN C-ZERO, will be able to request an exclusive test-drive prior to placing a pre-order.

Video: RENAULT REVIVES GORDINI

The little blue bombshells with two white stripes are back!
The famous "Gorde" was a symbol of French success that thrilled several generations of motorists who were thirsty for sporty sensations at the wheel of a fun car. The French blue, white stripes and radiator grill with its four round headlights all contributed to an eternal identity that is an important part of Renault's sporting heritage.
In a few months, new Gordini-labeled versions will supplement the Renault Sport range and strengthen Renault's offering in the compact sports segment.
The fashionable and sporty Gordini label still possesses its exclusive and sporting values. The Gordini versions, derived from sports models that are already renowned for their outstanding performance, will appeal to lovers of thrills at the wheel and a distinctive design.
Twingo Gordini RS will be unveiled on 25 November at L'Atelier Renault on the Champs Elysées in Paris as part of the "Christmas in Blue" exhibition. It will be launched next spring. Clio Gordini RS will be launched a few months later.


GORDINI: RENAULT'S SPORTING HERITAGE

Amédée Gordini, who developed almost 200,000 Renault vehicles over a 20-year period, achieved
some of the brand's greatest sporting achievements.
Born in 1899, just about one year after the launch of the very first Renault vehicle, Amédée Gordini
demonstrated his mechanical skills from a very young age. After working as a mechanic on single-
seaters, his R8 Gordinis finished 1st, 3rd, 4th and 5th in the 1964 Tour of Corsica rally. In 1966, the 1300 version heralded the birth of the Gordini Cup. The R8 Gordini delighted lovers of fun driving for a whole decade.
It even featured in French films alongside famous stars, including Romy Schneider, Alain Delon and Lino Ventura, and this small sports sedan was a big hit with the younger generation of drivers. The trend had been set. Gordini became a symbol of success for a whole generation and came to embody a state of mind. The spirit of a triumphant France that shared its successes with everyone.


GORDINI: THE FASHIONABLE AND SPORTY LABEL OF THE RENAULT SPORT RANGE

With its elegant finish and strong design codes, the Gordini label builds on the renowned expertise of Renault Sport, and offers a fresh interpretation of its values.
Renault naturally opted to build on the reputation of Renault Sport Technologies (RST) in order to
transform the Gordini legend into a reality. Renault's sports branch has prolonged the Gordini heritage
through its renowned expertise in motor sport and the development of its sports models.
RST is the world's leading organizer of motor sport events. Since 2005, almost 3 million fans have
attended World Series by Renault meetings, the Megane Trophy and Clio Cup races and special events for motor sport enthusiasts. RST is now a leading player in the motor sports sector.
Both in competition and series production, Renault's sports models, such as the Megane RS, Clio RS and Twingo RS, developed by RST, are acknowledged as figuring amongst the best-performing vehicles in their category.


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Report: GM to put electric Cadillac Converj into production

The Detroit News is reporting several sources have confirmed GM will build a production version of the Cadillac Converj Concept.

The decision to green-light the Converj marks the second major product reversal for GM in recent months. In August, the company killed plans for a new Buick compact crossover after it was panned by consumers, dealers and other groups.


As you may recall, when the Converj was unveiled at the North American International Auto Show, Bob Lutz hinted that a production version would remain faithful to the concept. This is good news, considering the Converj won praise for its sleek styling and advanced powertrain.


The concept won accolades at the 2009 North American International Auto Show in Detroit in January. The car is a couple of years away from reaching showrooms and a production date has not been set. The decision to build the Converj means GM can add to its electric vehicle lineup amid growing consumer demand, spread the technology's cost over more models and command a premium price.


Expected to be based on the Chevrolet Volt, the Converj will likely feature a 16-kWh lithium-ion battery which powers an electric motor that produces 120 kW (161 hp) and 273 lb-ft (370 Nm) of torque. Like the Volt, the Converj would be recharged by a 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine after the car travels past its 40 mile electric-only range (it can also be recharged via a 240V or 120V outlet). While nothing is official, there has been speculation that Cadillac will make some minor modifications to give the Converj a more performance-oriented setup than the Volt.


The Volt will allow commuters to travel up to 40 miles on electric power alone. The engine will kick in after the battery is drained by about 70 percent to sustain the remaining charge and keep the car running for several hundred miles.

The Converj concept featured solar panels on a glass roof, rear view cameras instead of exterior mirrors, 21-inch tires in the front and 22-inch in the rear.
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