Sedici 2009 FAIT

If everyday life is an adventure, why don’t you take up the challenge with Sedici? Compact and versatile, it takes you anywhere with front drive + AWD on demand. Comfortable and spacious, it has large seats accommodating up to 5 people. Safety is ensured by 6 airbags, three-point seatbelts with pretensioner, ABS with ESP supplied as standard.

DPF – Particulate filter You are free to travel any time, regardless of traffic restrictions. A standard feature with the 120 bhp 1.9 Multijet diesel, the DPF is a mechanical filter installed in the exhaust system to trap the contaminant particles contained in the exhaust gases and reduce harmful emissions.
AWD on demand With electronically controlled AWD on demand, it is up to you to decide where and when to shift from 4x2 to 4x4 by pressing a button. Till then, Sedici uses a front drive system, making for appreciable fuel savings, longer tyre life and low emissions.
ESP On request, Sedici can be equipped with the ESP (Electronic Stability Program). This system steps in the moment it senses that vehicle stability is at risk and helps the driver retain full control of the car in any road condition, on wet and dry surfaces, on straights and bends.

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Mercedes-Benz SL Avalange RS 2009

Mercedes-Benz SL Avalange RS 2009 by Piecha Design
Double headlights and one-lamella grill mark the front Complete aerodynamics kit for all R230 models Perfect fit guaranteed by assembly to original spots Four stainless steel pipes render powerful sound Light alloy wheels dp3 Avalange in 9.5x20 and 10.5x20 inches Piecha Design combines the best of two worlds. With the SL-Roadster (R230), the Mercedes specialist from Rottweil in Baden Württemberg, Germany brings the classic four-eyed face with the double headlights and the fresh design of the 2008 facelift together. Thereby, the Avalange RS with an own character originates. At the Tuning World Bodensee in Friedrichshafen, the new model celebrates its world premiere at the exhibition booth of Eurotuner’s Best (hall B3, stand 204). The core part of the new design is the entirely re-engineered front. Piecha Design places its one-lamella grill between the double headlights which is typical for the SL facelift since 2008. But the refiner places the grill significantly flatter. The automobile front with the enlarged Mercedes bonnet star gives the car a much more dynamic look. The entirely re-engineered front skirt (from 1,985 euros including VAT) with the integrated one-lamella grill and bonnet star insert is made of elastomer-modified fibre glass composite material in one piece. Compared to normal glass fibre reinforced plastic (GRP), this has three advantages: perfect fit, even higher stability and at the same time a lower weight. Fog lights with chrome rings and black, xenon-bright LED daytime running lights are already built into the front skirt and are included in the delivery. The aerodynamics kit can be optionally ordered for automobiles with or without parking assistant system PARKTRONIC. The determined design line by Piecha Design does not only show at the new front skirt, but also at the chromed bonnet fins (98 euros) and the SL-R side fins which are extended right to the doors (476 euros). This characteristic style is continued in a striking way with side skirts (1,100 euros) with a reverse air inlet pointing towards the rear. The winding design of the skirts sustainably affects the wedged shape of the side view and gives the Avalange RS additional dynamics. The rear skirt can be optionally ordered with or without PARKTRONIC (from 1,390 euros) and the continuously embedded grid which spreads over the entire width of the automobile, the design is further enhanced. Piecha design offers the separately inserted diffuser which is limited by the four pipe system of the sport rear muffler QUADRO (1,475 euros) as well as the additional middle front lip optionally in carbon fibre. Alternatively, QUADRO 4-pipe tail ends (398 euros) are also available for welding them to the serial mufflers. Piecha Design confirms its sense for design vocabulary with further details. A discreet rear spoiler lip (from 275 euros) on the boot lid, optionally also in carbon fibre, gives the overall appearance a harmonious finish. The Mercedes manufacturer completely refrains from so-called fender corners at the spoilers and therefore creates an aerodynamics kit of one piece. Except for the front skirt, all aerodynamics components also fit for the facelift of the Mercedes SL from 04/2008 including the AMG models SL 63 and SL 65 whose styling is especially enhanced by the Avalange RS look. The safety of the component parts perfectly matches the sporty shape. Each attached part has been checked in elaborate tests far beyond the 300 km/h mark. All aerodynamics parts are delivered with all inner attachments and are manufactured in such a way that they can be fitted to the original spots. This does not only reduce the assembly costs, but also allows selling the entire original parts.

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Bugatti - 100 Years 2009

Bugatti2009 - 100 Years at Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este

100 years of Bugatti at Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este Bugatti Automobiles Pays Homage with four special Veyron models to Ettore Bugatti's Masterpiece: The Type 35 Grand Prix Molsheim/Cernobbio on 26 April 2009 – In a further highlight on this year's agenda of centennial celebrations, Bugatti Automobiles S.A.S. presented four Bugatti Veyron specials at Villa d'Este Concorso d'Eleganza. These one off models are reminders of Bugatti's glorious motor-racing history which played a central role in popularising and ultimately establishing the myth which the brand continues to enjoy to this day. The Bugatti brand is almost inextricably linked to the Type 35. The Type 35 Grand Prix was by far the most successful racing model. The unmistakable radiator grille and eight-spoke aluminium wheels of the Type 35 have become defining features of the Bugatti automobile. In its day, the Grand Prix was also well ahead of its time in terms of engineering ingenuity. The front axle design of this vehicle, which, for reasons of weight minimisation, is hollow, is a true masterpiece of workmanship and was deemed nothing less than revolutionary. Its springs were passed through the axle to produce a high level of stability. The Grand Prix's brake drums were integrally fitted into its lightweight aluminium wheels. Unfastening the central wheel nut allowed the wheel to be easily removed within a matter of seconds and the brake to be exposed. This was a crucial advantage at the pit stop. 2000 wins in ten years The blue racers made their first appearance on the race track at the Grand Prix held by Automobil Club de France in Lyon in 1924. In the decade that followed, they remained practically unchallenged thanks to sophisticated manufacturing efforts, their lightweight design and easy handling. During that ten-year era, they won almost 2000 races – more than any other model ever has. Grand Prix races were highly fashionable events in those days, and Bugatti was not the only brand with considerable interest in substantiating the reputation of its products by winning races. In fact, in the 1920s, Europe was regularly host to a number of different races in different countries on a single weekend. The teams set up by different automobile manufacturers competed at popular race circuits such as Targa Florio, Le Mans, Monza and Spa as well as in Rome, Nice, Antibes and even a village in Alsace. The main reason Bugatti won such an enormous number of races – on the back of which successes the brand was also able to forge its image – was the fact that Bugatti sold not only its normal sports and touring cars to private buyers, but its racing cars too. Thus it was that its automobiles took part in such a large number of Grand Prix events. This bestowed upon Ettore Bugatti a double success. He was able on the one hand to sell his racing cars expensively to wealthy private buyers with a keen sporting ambition and, on the other, to capitalise on their successes on international racing circuits – without actually having to make a single investment in these "marketing activities". This stroke of genius by "Le Patron" not only brought him immortal fame, but a substantial fortune as well. A total of 350 legendary Type 35-series automobiles were ultimately built – in a wide variety of versions. Those that survived their racing days, accidents, World War II and all other risks over the years, have become coveted and highly priced collectors' items. Four Type 35 Grand Prix models – Four distinct personalities – Four Veyrons Tradition being what it is, the Bugatti Veyron Specials built to mark the 100th anniversary of the brand feature the racing colours of the respective countries: blue for France, red for Italy, green for England and white for Germany. Each of the four new Veyrons has a specific "predecessor" in the form of an original Grand Prix Bugatti on which it was modelled. These four historic race cars represent the generation of legendary Bugatti Grand Prix racers which were piloted by world-famous race-car drivers and which scored countless racing victories in the 1920s and '30s. Each of the four Veyron Specials is named after a Bugatti race-car driver of the 1920s and 30s. Jean-Pierre Wimille has given the blue Veyron its name, Achille Varzi the red one, Malcolm Campbell the green one and Hermann zu Leiningen the white Veyron. Jean-Pierre Wimille was one of the longest-serving drivers at Bugatti. He only joined the team in Molsheim in 1933, but subsequently remained loyal to the brand, ultimately driving home Bugatti's last-ever victory in 1947 at Bois de Boulogne in a 4.7-litre Monoposto Type 59/50 B. Wimille's many previous successes included winning the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1937 and 1939. Achille Varzi was a member of the official Bugatti team from 1931 to 1933. He had already achieved many successes since 1928 driving a private Type 35 C, then later went on to win the Monaco Grand Prix, an event on Berlin's Avus circuit and other races. As the setter of numerous world records for speed, the name Malcolm Campbell is firmly established in racing history. He also competed in countless "normal" races from 1911 and 1936, often piloting a Bugatti Type 39 A or Type 35, and he owned one of the legendary Type 57 S street sports cars. Prinz Hermann zu Leiningen's career driving Bugattis began in 1927 when he purchased a Type 40 chassis, for which he had a racing body built. He went on to win a number or races in a privately owned Type 37 A before eventually standing in the spotlight of the international racing scene in a 35 C for several years from 1930 onward. "We have put a lot of effort into translating colour and material, the defining characteristics of our historic role models, into the designs of the modern-day Veyrons," explains Alasdair Stewart, Director Sales & Marketing at Bugatti Automobiles S.A.S. "We have taken extreme care to match the original colours of the original race cars, exterior and interior" On Sunday, the four historic racing Type 35s and the four modern-day Centenaire EditionVeyrons will be exhibited alongside each other in the park of Villa Erba for the first and only time. Ahead of that presentation, Bugatti will on Saturday be prominently represented in the park of Villa d'Este by a special-display-class exhibition of models, which will serve to portray the 100-year history of the brand. Bugatti's participation in the classic Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este at Lake Como will be the second highlight event to mark the carmaker's centennial celebrations after it took part in the International Geneva Motor Show in early March. This latest event will be followed by the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance in California in mid-August and the main celebratory event on 12 September in Molsheim (Alsace), which has been the home of this unparalleled automobile brand for 100 years. Bugatti

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Smart fortwo ed 2009

2009 Smart fortwo ed

- Electric Drive Financial incentive scheme for electric and hybrid cars Following the announcement today of the financial incentive scheme for electric and hybrid cars we are pleased to be able to offer you press information and images of the smart ed (electric drive) and the following key facts: The smart ed was the top selling electric car in 2008 and continues to outsell the competition so far in 2009 The smart ed emits no carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, unburned hydro-carbons, particulate matter or any harmful substance – in fact it emits nothing at all The smart ed retains all the safety equipment you would find on a regular smart. So unlike electric quadricycles you will find ESP, ABS brakes two Airbags and seat belt pre tensioners on the ed. The ed also is exempt from London Congestion Charging & Vehicle Excise Duty Drivers of the smart ed can expect to achieve the equivalent of around 300 mpg The smart ed has no engine oil, oil filter, spark plugs or exhaust. In fact there are only a handful of moving parts in the driveline, resulting in very low service and maintenance costs. www.smart-press.co.uk Smart Stuttgart, Germany Status: not an ad Tags: 2009 Smart fortwo ed - Electric Drive, car, electric, micro car

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Exeo 2009 JE Design

2009 Seat Exeo by JE Design

JE DESIGN gives the Seat Exeo a jump-start: New limousine turns into a four-door sports car * Entire body kit gives the Exeo a dynamic appearance * End muffler with four stainless steel pipes renders the right sound * Sport spring set lowers the Seat by 35 millimetres * Light alloy wheels Multispoke in 7.5x18 and 8x19 inches As soon as it came on the market, the car has already been refined. For the first time, the Spanish VW subsidiary Seat presents a limousine for which JE DESIGN immediately offers a sport suit. With the entire body kit the middle class limousine turns into a sports car with four doors. The new sport radiator grill without the SEAT logo (199 euros including VAT) and the front spoiler (379 euros) give the Exeo a significantly grimmer face. The side skirts (399 euros) emphasise the dynamic wedge shape. The diffuser panel in carbon look (299 euros) gives the car a sporty rear section. This appearance is perfected with the sport end muffler and its four stainless steel pipes (899 euros) which also deliver the matching sound for this look. JE DESIGN offers the exhaust system for all Exeo engine types. The sporty metamorphosis would not be complete without lowering the Exeo. With an own developed sport spring set (219 euros), JE DESIGN pushes the Seat 35 millimetres closer to the tarmac and does not only optimise the appearance, but also the driving dynamics. JE DESIGN's own light alloy wheels Multispoke (from 269 euro) in the dimensions 7.5x18 (tyres: 225/40 R 18) or 8x19 inches (tyres 235/35 R 19) are delivered in either shadow-silver or graphite silver matt finish. With the Exeo programme, JE DESIGN once again confirms its competence as an internationally successful Seat refiner, even immediately after the new model has entered the market. For more information about the extensive JE DESIGN tuning programme, please do not hesitate to contact +49(0)7131/203 84-0 or visit the web site www.je-design.de JE Design Leingarten, Germany Status: not an ad Tags: 2009 Seat Exeo by JE Design, car, custom, sports car, sedan,

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Nissan Forms Zero-2009

2009 Nissan Forms Zero-Emission

Vehicle Partnership THE RENAULT-NISSAN ALLIANCE FORMS ZERO-EMISSION VEHICLE PARTNERSHIP IN SAN DIEGO SAN DIEGO, Calif. (March. 23, 2009) – The Renault-Nissan Alliance today announced that Nissan and San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E), the utility company operating in the San Diego, Calif., region, are forming a partnership to advance zero-emission mobility by promoting the development of an electric vehicle (EV) charging network. Nissan will introduce ZEVs in the United States in 2010 and will mass market ZEVs globally two years later. The announcement coincides with the first stop on a coast-to-coast tour of Nissan’s EV Prototype, a vehicle that’s powered by Nissan’s lithium-ion battery pack and zero-emission electric motor. While this vehicle does not represent the design of Nissan’s electric vehicle that will be sold in 2010, the EV Prototype is an indicator of what’s to come in zero-emission mobility. “Nissan through the Renault-Nissan Alliance has committed to being a global leader in zero-emission vehicles,” said Dominique Thormann, senior vice president, administration and finance, Nissan North America. “Nissan and SDG&E have a shared belief that the introduction and expansion of electric vehicles is one of the best solutions to reducing CO2 emissions. This partnership is an important step in making zero emissions a reality in San Diego.” As part of the agreement, Nissan will assist SDG&E in EV acquisition as well as work with SDG&E to develop plans to promote a charging infrastructure for EVs. Together, Nissan and SDG&E will form a working team with area agencies, institutions and companies to work towards the implementation and maintenance of a battery charging network and establish and support education activities designed to promote the use of EVs. “We are proud to be embarking on this clean transportation initiative with Nissan,” said Debra L. Reed, president and chief executive officer of SDG&E. “This collaborative effort is the first step in making San Diego ‘plug-in ready.’ We’re excited about creating new job opportunities for our region and furthering San Diego’s vision of being at the center of growth for clean technologies.” Lori Holt Pfieler, Mayor, City of Escondido and Chair, San Diego Association of Governments; Stephen Cushman, Chairman of the Board of the Port of San Diego; and SDG&E CEO Debra Reed joined Nissan representatives in announcing the partnership at a ceremony at the Port of San Diego. “SDG&E’s partnership with Nissan is another step toward making San Diego a national center for clean technology and green practices,” said San Diego Mayor Jerry Sanders. “The public and private sectors in this region are working hand-in-hand to promote innovation and adoption of environmentally friendly technologies.” The Renault-Nissan Alliance has begun ZEV initiatives in Israel, Denmark, Portugal, the Principality of Monaco, Kanagawa Prefecture and Yokohama city (Japan), and has formed partnerships with the French electric utility company EDF, the Swiss electric utility company Energie Ouest Suisse, the private-car hire service “greentomatocars” (UK) and with zero-emission transport system company “elektromotive” (UK). In the United States, the Alliance has agreed to ZEV partnerships in the State of Tennessee, the State of Oregon, Sonoma County, Calif., and Tucson, Ariz., to explore ways to promote zero-emission mobility and the development of an electric-vehicle infrastructure. Nissan North America In North America, Nissan's operations include automotive styling, engineering, consumer and corporate financing, sales and marketing, distribution and manufacturing. Nissan is dedicated to improving the environment under the Nissan Green Program 2010, whose key priorities are reducing CO2 emissions, cutting other emissions and increasing recycling. More information on Nissan in North America and the complete line of Nissan and Infiniti vehicles can be found online at www.NissanUSA.com and www.infinitiUSA.com. Renault-Nissan Alliance The Renault-Nissan Alliance, founded in 1999, sold 6,160,046 vehicles in 2007. The objective of the Alliance is to rank among the world’s top three vehicle manufacturers in terms of quality, technology and profitability. San Diego Gas & Electric San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E) is a regulated public utility that provides safe and reliable energy service to 3.4 million consumers through 1.4 million electric meters and more than 840,000 natural gas meters in San Diego and southern Orange counties. The utility’s area spans 4,100 square miles. Exceptional customer service is a priority of SDG&E as it seeks to enhance the region’s quality of life. SDG&E is a subsidiary of Sempra Energy (NYSE: SRE), a Fortune 500 energy services holding company based in San Diego. Nissan Tokyo, Japan Status: not an ad Tags: 2009 Nissan Forms Zero-Emission Vehicle Partnership, car, concept car, electric, station wagon, ARTICLE, crossover, VIDEO

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Chrysler Peapod 2009

2009 Chrysler Peapod -

Photo Update Chrysler Detroit, Michigan, U.S.A. Status: not an ad Tags: 2009 Chrysler Peapod - Photo Update, car, electric, micro car, ARTICLE

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Ferrari F430 Reborn 2009

2009 Ferrari F430 Reborn as 777hp Novitec TuLesto

NOVITEC TuLesto with 777 hp and a Top Speed of More than 350 km/h The World's Most Exclusive High-End Sports Car There are many fascinating automobiles money can buy but its spectacular design, its uncompromising high-performance concept and its limited edition of just eleven cars make the new NOVITEC TuLesto the most exclusive high-end sports car in the world. The mid-engine racer is 204 centimeters wide and weighs in at just 1,260 kilograms. It is built by German automobile manufacturer NOVITEC in Stetten in Bavaria. At the heart of the two-seater is a V8 engine with dual superchargers and a rated power output of 777 hp / 571.8 kW. Thanks to its carbon fiber and aluminum construction the coupe has an excellent power-to-weight ratio of just 1.62 kg/hp. The result is driving performance that only very few super sports cars can match: The sprint from rest to 100 km/h takes less than 3.4 seconds, and the NOVITEC TuLesto reaches 300 km/h after just 22.6 seconds. Top speed is more than 350 km/h. The new high-end sports car represents NOVITEC's first proprietary car and marks the company's 20th anniversary. "With the NOVITEC TuLesto we transform our collective know-how from two decades of automobile tuning into an uncompromising high-performance sports car for eleven of our long-time customers from around the world," says NOVITEC managing director Wolfgang Hagedorn. "The TuLesto offers an optimal symbiosis of exceptional driving dynamics and exciting yet aerodynamically efficient styling." Light-weight construction was one of the main goals from the very start of the project. The designers' materials of choice are normally found in racecars. The chassis and the integrated safety cell are made entirely from aluminum, making them extremely light while at the same time giving them extraordinary rigidity. The striking design of the sports car is the result of a cooperation between NOVITEC and the Italian design studio Luca Serafini Stile in Modena. The unmistakable shape of the TuLesto was created using state-of-the-art CAD and CFD technologies, further augmented by the use of the wind tunnel. The TuLesto is 462 centimeters long, 204 centimeters wide and has a height of 122 centimeters. The spectacular curves of the fenders, the front apron, the shape of the rear and the smooth underbody with integrated venturi tunnel and diffuser were calibrated in the wind tunnel to create an optimal aerodynamic balance. For perfect weight distribution the NOVITEC TuLesto was designed with a classic mid-engine layout. The 4.4-liter four-valve V8 engine with dual superchargers is installed directly behind the cockpit. The high-tech engine produces a maximum power output of 777 hp / 571.8 kW at 8,200 rpm and a peak torque of 727 Nm at 6,300 rpm. Motorsports was also the inspiration for the power transfer: The six gears of the semi-automatic gearbox with integrated anti-slip differential are shifted with carbon-fiber paddles behind the steering wheel. An adjustable traction control system with launch control for perfect starts guarantees maximum driving safety on the road and on the track. The NOVITEC engineers and technicians also used racing technology on the suspension: As in GT-series racing, the TuLesto features double-wishbone suspension front and rear, height-adjustable struts with various selectable damping rates, and adjustable sway bars. For easy negotiating of underground parking ramps or similar obstacles the TuLesto front can be raised four centimeters at the push of a button. The anti-lock braking system features ceramic composite discs and six-piston fixed calipers front and back for maximum stopping power and endurance. Another elementary contribution to the superior driving dynamics of the NOVITEC TuLesto comes from its ultra-light light-alloy wheels with diameters of 20 or 21 inches. These wheels were custom-developed for this coupe and are fitted with semi slicks up to 355 millimeters wide on the rear axle. The interior design has a decidedly sporty nature but also offers creature comforts such as a climate-control system and a high-end sound system. Lightweight carbon fiber plays a dominating role in the interior as well: It is used for dashboard, center console and door trim as well as for the bucket seats which will be custom-fitted in form, shape, size, color and upholstery to each of the eleven future owners. Novitec Rosso Stetten, Germany Status: not an ad Tags: 2009 Ferrari F430 Reborn as 777hp Novitec TuLesto, car, custom, sports car, coupe, ARTICLE, EDITORS PICK

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Polo 2009 Volkswagen

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2009 Volkswagen Polo Challenge Conquers Apple App Stores Worldwide

Volkswagen Polo Challenge conquers Apple App Stores worldwide More than 1.4 million downloads of interactive Polo racing game Wolfsburg, 08 April 2009 - The Volkswagen Polo has demonstrated a constant presence in the streets around the world for more than 30 years. The newest version of Volkswagen's best seller is now reaching the generation of "mobile gamers". The new Polo made its debut at the Geneva Motor Show on 3 March, 2009. Parallel to its debut, a Polo racing game for the iPhone and the iPod appeared in the Apple App Stores. In just two weeks, Volkswagen was in first place on the download charts in 39 countries with this new marketing method and was among the top ten of the US download charts. In this way, Volkswagen is betting not just on traditional advertisements in print, radio and television but also on interactivity through the iPhone and iPod. And with success: more than 1.4 million downloads from the Apple App Store within four weeks prove the wave of enthusiasm which the new Polo racing game, Volkswagen Polo Challenge has set off around the world. Volkswagen see in the success of the Polo game a confirmation for the new direction in viral marketing. The number of downloads, 1.4 million after just four weeks, far exceeds expectations. This indicates great potential for developing contact to new, young, technically minded target groups. Volkswagen Polo Challenge is an interactive racing game which takes place in brilliant 3D quality on eight highly detailed race tracks. Those who would like to test the new Polo in life can use the game to navigate to the nearest Volkswagen dealer. Volkswagen Wolfsburg, Germany Status: not an ad Tags: 2009 Volkswagen Polo Challenge Conquers Apple App Stores Worldwide, car, micro car, ARTICLE, fuel efficient

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Fiesta 2009 Ford

2009 Ford Fiesta Sales Continue to Soar

NEW FIESTA SALES APPROACH 170,000 AS FORD OF EUROPE CONTINUES TO GROW MARKET SHARENew Fiesta sales continue to soar Double-digit monthly market share a first since September 2001 First quarter share the highest since 1998 Market share increases in 16 out of 19 markets Retail share up in March Blue oval consolidates its position as Europe's number two best-selling brand COLOGNE, April 15, 2009 – Ford of Europe has sold over 108,000 new Fiestas this year, bringing to almost 170,000 the total purchased by customers since the car was introduced last autumn. In March alone the company sold 52,800 Fiestas – the highest retail sales month ever for the new car and making it once more the company's best-selling car across the main Euro 19 markets. Ford of Europe increased its market share in March in the Euro 19 markets to 10.0 per cent, up 0.2 percentage points versus the same month last year, consolidating its position as Europe's number two best-selling brand. This is the first time Ford of Europe's market share has been in double digits since September 2001 and it continues the company's upward trend. In total in March Ford of Europe sold 163,000 vehicles in the Euro 19 markets and increased market share in 16 out of its 19 main European markets, with only France, Spain and Switzerland showing declines. "It is very encouraging to see Fiesta doing so well and also our market share developing so positively, given the declining market we are continuing to face in Europe," said Ingvar Sviggum, vice-president marketing, sales and service, Ford of Europe. "With 56 per cent of our March sales generated by retail customers – up from 43 per cent in March 2008 – we have clear evidence of consumer confidence in our Ford product range," he added. March performance Top selling Ford models in the 19 main European markets were the new Fiesta (52,800), the Focus (32,300), and Transit (14,100). Britain was the company's best performing market in March and delivered 62,300 new vehicles, a reduction of 21,100 units versus the same month in 2008. This March performance led to a share of 17.9 per cent, up by 1.6 percentage points compared to the same month last year. Fiesta was Britain's best-selling car for the fifth consecutive month. In Germany, which had the largest passenger car industry volume since March 1999 driven by a very successful scrappage scheme, Ford sold 28,300 vehicles, up by 39.6 per cent or 8,000 units on March 2008. Ford market share in Germany last month was 7.2 per cent, an improvement of 0.7 percentage points over the same period last year. March was also Ford of Germany's best sales month for the Ka since 2002 and the best March for the Fiesta since 1998. In Italy, March sales rose by 21.7 per cent or 4,200 to 23,800 and a 10.1 per cent market share was up by 2.3 percentage points on March 2008. Ford remained Italy's leading import brand and the Fiesta was the best-selling imported car. In France, the C-MAX and S-MAX were the best-selling imported vehicles in their segments for the third successive month. For the first time since March 2007, Ford was the top-selling foreign brand in Russia, giving it an 8.4 per cent record March share, an increase of 1.8 percentage points on 2008. This was the company's highest share in any month in Russia since December 2006. Across all its 51 European markets, Ford sold 185,100 vehicles in March 2009, down 16.3 per cent or 36,000, when compared to the same month last year. Year-to-date performance In the first quarter of 2009 Ford of Europe sold across its Euro 19 markets 352,200 vehicles, down 69,200 or 16.4 percentage points versus 2008. Market share soared by half a percentage point to 9.4 per cent, the highest Q1 share since 1998. Ford of Britain sold 97,800 vehicles, a reduction of 25.6 per cent or 33,700 when compared to last year. The UK industry was down by 32 per cent during the same period. However, Ford's market share in Britain continued to rise and in this first quarter of the year increased by 1.5 percentage points to 18.2 per cent. Ford of Germany saw sales increase over the first three months of the year by 33.5 per cent. They sold 64,800 vehicles, an increase of 16,300 over the first quarter of 2008. Market share over the same period was 7.4 per cent, up 1.4 percentage points when compared to the same period in 2008. Ford Italy sold 58,400 vehicles over the first quarter 2009, down 3,900, while market share rose by 1.6 percentage points to 9.8 per cent. Fiesta rose from third to second place in the list of best-selling vehicles in Italy. Year-to-date market share in France increased by 0.3 percentage points to 5.6 per cent, with sales at 35,100, a reduction of 3,600 versus 2008. In Spain, the market remained one of the most depressed in Europe, with industry falling by 40 per cent and Ford sales totaling 19,800 (a reduction of 22,100). Market share there was at 8.7 per cent, down 1.6 percentage points. Despite this challenging market environment, the Ford Mondeo led its segment in Spain in the first quarter of 2009. In Russia, sales of 28,900 (although down by 12,500 versus the same period last year) enabled Ford's market share in the first three months of the year to rise by 1.4 percentage points to 7.5 per cent. Year-to-date, Ford of Europe sold 404,900 vehicles in its 51 markets, a reduction of 97,000 or down 19.3 percentage points on the first quarter of 2008. Ford Dearborn, Michigan, U.S.A. Status: not an ad Tags: 2009 Ford Fiesta Sales Continue to Soar, car, micro car, ARTICLE, fuel efficient

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Lotus Elise and Exige now Cleaner than Ever 2010

2010 Model Year Elise and Exige Now Cleaner than Ever For 2010 Model Year,

the Elise and Exige have substantially reduced CO2 emissions and improved fuel consumption The latest Elise and Exige models are the product of continuous improvement to give up to a 9% reduction in CO2 emissions and similar increases in fuel economy. On the combined cycle, the Elise S shows the greatest improvement in fuel efficiency offering an increase of 3.2 mpg (a decrease of 0.7 l/100km), from 34.0 mpg (8.3 l/100 km) to 37.2 mpg (7.6 l/100km). These figures are achieved by focussing on light weight technology and small, efficient engines to achieve sensational performance and class leading fuel economy. Model Combined CO2 0-60 mph 0-100 km/h (mpg) (l/100km) (g/km) (seconds) (seconds) Elise S 37.2 mpg 179 Co2 5.7 0-60 mph Elise R 34.4 mpg 196 CO2 5.1 0-60 mph Elise SC 33.2 mpg 199 CO2 4.3 0-60 mph Exige S 33.2 mpg 199 CO2 4.5 0-60 mph Elise S 26.6 Urban mpg 48.7 Extra Urban mpg Elise R 24.4 Urban mpg 45.6 Extra Urban mpg Elise SC 23.9 Urban mpg 44.1 Extra Urban mpg Exige S 23.7 Urban mpg 43.5 Extra Urban mpg The exceptional balance and precise handling of Lotus cars have always been the most engaging aspect of the driving experience and these class leading attributes are now complemented by greener performance. Mike Kimberley, CEO of Group Lotus plc, stated, “The Lotus philosophy of performance through light weight is even more relevant in today’s emission focused ecological world. This design philosophy has enabled Lotus to offer fantastic levels of performance, with Lotus cars being some of the greenest performance cars on the market”. Mike Kimberley continues, “We are at the cutting edge of green transport technology and we will continue to push the boundaries with our green research and environmental strategy. We are keen to ensure that Lotus as a company and its products offer an ethical, green option that appeals to our customers". Lotus’ cars fair well against other manufacturers of performance cars in terms of CO2 emissions against performance. The table below compares vehicles with similar performance and highlights their emissions of CO2. This table illustrates the efficient performance of the Elise SC. Lotus Elise SC 33.2 mpg 199 CO2 4.6 0-62 mph Porsche Boxster S 29.7 mpg 223 CO2 5.3 0-62mph Mercedes Benz SLK 55 AMG 23.5 mpg 288 CO2 4.9 0-62 mph Ferrari F430 Spider 18.6 mpg 345 CO2 4.1 0-62 mph Figures displayed above are from manufacturers’ websites as at 8/4/09 The exciting new 2010 model year Elise and Exige are on sale now at Lotus dealers. Elise S: 179 g/km CO2 7.6 l/100 km (37.2 mpg) Combined Cycle 10.6 l/100 km (26.6 mpg) Urban Cycle 5.8 l/100 km (48.7 mpg) Extra Urban Cycle Elise R: 196 g/km CO2 8.2 l/100 km (34.4 mpg) Combined Cycle 11.6 l/100 km (24.4 mpg) Urban Cycle 6.2 l/100 km (45.6 mpg) Extra Urban Cycle Elise SC: 199 g/km CO2 8.5 l/100 km (33.2 mpg) Combined Cycle 11.8 l/100 km (23.9 mpg) Urban Cycle 6.4 l/100 km (44.1 mpg) Extra Urban Cycle Exige S: 199 g/km CO2 8.5 l/100 km (33.2 mpg) Combined Cycle 11.9 l/100 km (23.7 mpg) Urban Cycle 6.5 litres/100 km (43.5 mpg) Extra Urban Cycle Lotus London, England, United Kingdom Status: not an ad Tags: 2010 Lotus Elise and Exige now Cleaner than Ever, car, roadster, sports car, coupe, targa, ARTICLE, EDITORS PICK, fuel efficient

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Kia Soulster Concept 2009

The 2009 Kia Soulster open-air concept debuted in Detroit this afternoon at a presentation that resembled a Beach Boys music video. With the Soulster, Kia is looking to bring back the two-door convertible SUV body style that it killed off when the first generation Sportage ceased to be in 2002.Like the Soul that it's based on, the Soulster attempts to project a hip and youthful attitude. Unlike the production model, however, the concept seats one less person and has two doors instead of four. Other differences include unique 19-inch wheels, shimmering "Soul'r yellow" paint and LED headlamps. Its windshield and windows are low for a sporty appearance, and the roll bar serves double duty as a protection device as well as a place for the tracks of the soft top.Despite its small size, Kia equipped Soulster to be a versatile hauler. Inside, the rear seats fold flat to fit objects both big and small. All seats are cantilevered to give a nifty floating appearance that also provides rear passengers with more leg room. Kia also gave Soulster storage compartments below the rear seats and under the cargo area to stow more gear.If the Soulster makes it to production, it will likely carry over the Soul's engine offerings. The base engine would be a 1.6-liter, four-cylinder engine producing 122 horsepower and mated to a five-speed manual transmission. The optional engine would be the 2.0-liter inline-four that makes 142 horsepower available with the manual or a four-speed auto.While the 2010 Kia Soul goes on sale this spring, the company refused to say if the Soulster is coming to a beach near you. Kia did say that if the concept gets the green light it would be priced "with young buyers' budgets in mind," which we interpret to mean somewhere below $20K.To read more about the 2009 Kia Soulster Concept, go to our 2009 Detroit auto show blogs coverage. All the latest blogs from the Editors of Automobile Magazine can be found HERE. We've got our whole staff wandering the floor at Cobo Hall bringing back live photos and more information about all the new debuts from Detroit.

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Vauxhall Insignia VXR 2009 Opel

2009 Vauxhall Insignia VXR - Nurburgring Proven

ÜBER INSIGNIA TAKES POWER FIGHT TO PREMIUM RIVALS Nürburgring-proven chassis with Adaptive 4x4 Turbocharged V6 engine with race-bred design features Unique-to-range front suspension for optimised grip and traction Luton – Packing 325 horsepower, a sophisticated four-wheel drive chassis and a sub-six second 0-60 time, Vauxhall’s new Insignia VXR (Opel Insignia OPC) is set to take the mid-size performance saloon market by storm when it goes on sale early this summer, with a level of dynamic prowess which aims to raise the bar in its class. Based on the successful 2009 European Car of the Year, and available in hatch, saloon and Sports Tourer body styles, the high-performance Insignia will be Vauxhall’s first VXR model to adopt 4x4 technology, using a bespoke chassis developed through an extensive test programme at the gruelling Nürburgring circuit in Germany. Highlights are a ‘HiPerStrut’ (High Performance Strut) front suspension system, Adaptive 4x4 with electronic Limited Slip Differential (eLSD) and a 10 millimetre reduction in ride height over the Insignia SRi. The HiPerStrut system is unique to the VXR and serves two primary functions: firstly, to reduce torque-steer, but also to maintain negative camber during cornering, thereby improving ultimate grip levels in wet or dry conditions. Complementing these features are standard 19-inch alloy wheels (20-inch lightweight forged alloys are a cost option) with bespoke tyres, revised bushing and damper settings on both axles, and Brembo brakes with colour-keyed callipers and vented/cross-drilled discs. ‘The Insignia VXR is not just about absolute power, but a combination of usable performance and chassis sophistication which is the match of premium rivals, such as Audi’s new S4,’ said Andy Gilson, Vauxhall’s Marketing Director. ‘In essence, it’s an ultra-fast performance saloon that will appeal to buyers who appreciate subtle yet distinctive styling, but who need to know that there’s real substance below the car’s metal.’ And substance the VXR has a-plenty. At the heart of the Insignia VXR is Vauxhall’s advanced 2.8-litre V6 Turbo ECOTEC engine, with its micro-alloy forged steel crank, classic 60-degree cylinder angle and die-cast alloy oil sump – all features found in many a race engine. Producing 325PS (65PS up on the Elite V6), the engine uses a single, twin-scroll turbocharger and variable valve control for quick throttle response, and accelerates from 0-60mph in 5.8 seconds, achieving an electronically limited top speed of 155mph. With a design inspired by the Vauxhall/Opel GTC, many of the Insignia VXR’s styling cues will be familiar to those who saw this groundbreaking concept at the 2007 Geneva Motor Show. A deeper bumper, incorporating bold, twin mesh grilles either side of the main grille, dominates the front of the car, and at the rear, hatch and saloon models gain a rear spoiler, while all VXRs have a bespoke bumper moulding incorporating dual matt chrome exhausts. This sporting theme continues in the Insignia VXR’s cabin. Recaro front seats, a new VXR steering wheel, VXR gearknob and unique mouldings are standard on all cars, along with different instrument graphics, VXR sill plates and a black headlining. All VXRs are available with a colour palette comprising Arden Blue, Power Red, Carbon Flash Black, Silver Lake, Olympic White and Technical Grey. Sitting at the top of the Insignia range, the new model will be an important addition to Vauxhall’s performance-bred VXR family, which already includes the Corsa VXR, Astra VXR and 431 horsepower VXR8. Since its launch in 2004, the VXR brand has been underpinned by the immensely successful VX Racing team, which currently holds all three British Touring Car Championship titles – Drivers’, Manufacturers’ and Team – for the 2008 season. Prices for the Vauxhall Insignia VXR will be announced soon. Opel Rüsselsheim, Germany Status: not an ad Tags: 2009 Vauxhall Insignia VXR - Nurburgring Proven, car, sports car

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