BMW's North American division announced the availability of a new 'Competition Package' for the 2011 model year M3 Coupe and Sedan. The package promises to further improve the cars' handling dynamics by adding a 10mm lower suspension and 19-inch alloy wheels with greater offset for a wider track.
Combined with the reconfigured Electronic Damping Control and Dynamic Stability Control systems, the Bavarian automaker claims that the M3 with the Competition Package is "the best handling production M car ever built".
Question to BMW: does that mean the M3 Competition Package handles even better than the previous generation M3 CSL or the upcoming 450HP M3 GTS, both of which are considered production models?
While BMW did not publish any pictures of the M3 Coupe and Sedan with the Competition Package (the car pictured here is the Euro market M3 Coupe Edition special), the company said that the package is available on both models for $2,500.
The MSRP of the MY2011 M3 Sedan, Coupe, and Convertible remain unchanged at $56,275, $59,275, and $67,925, respectively, with all prices including a $875 destination and handling fee.
BMW's North American division announced the availability of a new 'Competition Package' for the 2011 model year M3 Coupe and Sedan. The package promises to further improve the cars' handling dynamics by adding a 10mm lower suspension and 19-inch alloy wheels with greater offset for a wider track.
Combined with the reconfigured Electronic Damping Control and Dynamic Stability Control systems, the Bavarian automaker claims that the M3 with the Competition Package is "the best handling production M car ever built".
Question to BMW: does that mean the M3 Competition Package handles even better than the previous generation M3 CSL or the upcoming 450HP M3 GTS, both of which are considered production models?
While BMW did not publish any pictures of the M3 Coupe and Sedan with the Competition Package (the car pictured here is the Euro market M3 Coupe Edition special), the company said that the package is available on both models for $2,500.
The MSRP of the MY2011 M3 Sedan, Coupe, and Convertible remain unchanged at $56,275, $59,275, and $67,925, respectively, with all prices including a $875 destination and handling fee.
Looks like 2010 will be a busy year for Wald International, the Japanese tuner known for its huge collection of aggressive body kits. Among other projects, Wald International is working on the development of exterior packages for five brand-new luxury sedan models, the 2011 BMW 7-Series, 2011 Infiniti M / Nissan Fuga (JDM), 2011 Jaguar XJ, Porsche Panamera and the new 'baby' Rolls Royce, the Ghost.
Despite the fact that the Japanese tuning firm has only released one teaser shot of each saloon, we can tell that the packages include new bumpers, spoilers, rocker panels, larger alloy wheels and suspension kits.
We'll bring you all the details on Wald International's new tuning proposals as soon the company launches the products.
Looks like 2010 will be a busy year for Wald International, the Japanese tuner known for its huge collection of aggressive body kits. Among other projects, Wald International is working on the development of exterior packages for five brand-new luxury sedan models, the 2011 BMW 7-Series, 2011 Infiniti M / Nissan Fuga (JDM), 2011 Jaguar XJ, Porsche Panamera and the new 'baby' Rolls Royce, the Ghost.
Despite the fact that the Japanese tuning firm has only released one teaser shot of each saloon, we can tell that the packages include new bumpers, spoilers, rocker panels, larger alloy wheels and suspension kits.
We'll bring you all the details on Wald International's new tuning proposals as soon the company launches the products.
[Update: Unfortunately, VW requested the removal of the photos of the student project, but you can still get a glimpse of the micro car study in the video above]
Over the years, we've featured a great number of studies from independent and amateur designers as well from students here on Carscoop. However, what you see pictured here isn't one of your common photoshop / renderings but a real life concept model that was created by a team of interns at Volkswagen Design Brazil.
The micro car was developed throughout 2009 and was displayed for the first time at a special event in Brazil this past December.
The goal was to create a Smart Fortwo-sized/like mini capable of accommodating two people plus some luggage in similar comfort to the VW Fox supermini.
The team came up with several proposals to power the 2.48 meter (97.6-in.) long car including VW's current 1.0-liter engine and various two-cylinder units (inline, V-shaped and boxer versions), all mounted at the rear, plus a plug-in version equipped with four in-wheel electric motors.
The vehicle's design is simple, but in a cool, 'Apple' sort of way, and is heavily influenced by the Volkswagen Up! concept series.
The main question we would like to pose here is whether or not a vehicle of this type and size could have a future in VW's range, especially after the presentation of the forthcoming 3+1 seater Up!. Have your say in the comment section below.
Volkswagen IN Concept: Product Description
Project developed by the interns of Volkswagen Design Brazil, winners of the "Talento Volkswagen 2008" contest. Aimed at developing the professional, creative and entrepreneur skills. Bringing fresh ideas to the company and a new mobility proposal.
We live in a time of changes in man-object relations. People wear not only with clothes, but with everything they consumes, seeing beyond the physical atmosphere of the products to absorb their values and concepts.
The proposal of Volkswagen IN is to align global trends for the development of the automotive industry, thinking of a car for nowadays that aims to minimize the traffic-jam of big cities, applying the concepts of sustainability and customization, creating a compact and versatile car, that fills most of the needs through creative solutions and especial materials.
Bringing the successful concept of the Volkswagen FOX called "Designed Around the Passenger", this project try to went a step forward, creating a 2.5 meters car for two people plus luggage, with the same comfort of the Volkswagen FOX, but with a clever use of each free space inside this, optimizing the relations between one person and the size which a car need to have to transport him.
This micro car takes advantages of the plug-in hybrid Technologies and in-wheels electric engines to provide even more inner space, and moreover this project contemplates the use of a small combustion engine fueled by ethanol, getting closer to the reality of small developing countries.
Innovating in an automotive product is not only to create an attractive shape, but also to rethink the solution for problems caused by this product. Acting effectively on solutions for the society, environment and mobility, considering individual desires of each customer, is the best way for a successful product.
Despite of the age or the needs of each user, this car is the answer for all those who increasingly are concerned with saving time and the environment.
[Update: Unfortunately, VW requested the removal of the photos of the student project, but you can still get a glimpse of the micro car study in the video above]
Over the years, we've featured a great number of studies from independent and amateur designers as well from students here on Carscoop. However, what you see pictured here isn't one of your common photoshop / renderings but a real life concept model that was created by a team of interns at Volkswagen Design Brazil.
The micro car was developed throughout 2009 and was displayed for the first time at a special event in Brazil this past December.
The goal was to create a Smart Fortwo-sized/like mini capable of accommodating two people plus some luggage in similar comfort to the VW Fox supermini.
The team came up with several proposals to power the 2.48 meter (97.6-in.) long car including VW's current 1.0-liter engine and various two-cylinder units (inline, V-shaped and boxer versions), all mounted at the rear, plus a plug-in version equipped with four in-wheel electric motors.
The vehicle's design is simple, but in a cool, 'Apple' sort of way, and is heavily influenced by the Volkswagen Up! concept series.
The main question we would like to pose here is whether or not a vehicle of this type and size could have a future in VW's range, especially after the presentation of the forthcoming 3+1 seater Up!. Have your say in the comment section below.
Volkswagen IN Concept: Product Description
Project developed by the interns of Volkswagen Design Brazil, winners of the "Talento Volkswagen 2008" contest. Aimed at developing the professional, creative and entrepreneur skills. Bringing fresh ideas to the company and a new mobility proposal.
We live in a time of changes in man-object relations. People wear not only with clothes, but with everything they consumes, seeing beyond the physical atmosphere of the products to absorb their values and concepts.
The proposal of Volkswagen IN is to align global trends for the development of the automotive industry, thinking of a car for nowadays that aims to minimize the traffic-jam of big cities, applying the concepts of sustainability and customization, creating a compact and versatile car, that fills most of the needs through creative solutions and especial materials.
Bringing the successful concept of the Volkswagen FOX called "Designed Around the Passenger", this project try to went a step forward, creating a 2.5 meters car for two people plus luggage, with the same comfort of the Volkswagen FOX, but with a clever use of each free space inside this, optimizing the relations between one person and the size which a car need to have to transport him.
This micro car takes advantages of the plug-in hybrid Technologies and in-wheels electric engines to provide even more inner space, and moreover this project contemplates the use of a small combustion engine fueled by ethanol, getting closer to the reality of small developing countries.
Innovating in an automotive product is not only to create an attractive shape, but also to rethink the solution for problems caused by this product. Acting effectively on solutions for the society, environment and mobility, considering individual desires of each customer, is the best way for a successful product.
Despite of the age or the needs of each user, this car is the answer for all those who increasingly are concerned with saving time and the environment.
It won't be long before we see the all-new Volvo S60 sedan in the flesh as the Swedish firm is planning to launch its Audi A4 and BMW 3-Series competitor at the 2010 Geneva Show in March, but just to keep us on our toes, the company has released an action video of the car on the road and the desert. It will be followed by two more promotional films by mid February. Read more »
It won't be long before we see the all-new Volvo S60 sedan in the flesh as the Swedish firm is planning to launch its Audi A4 and BMW 3-Series competitor at the 2010 Geneva Show in March, but just to keep us on our toes, the company has released an action video of the car on the road and the desert. It will be followed by two more promotional films by mid February. Read more »
You'd assume that a supercar like the Lamborghini Murcielago LP650-4 Roadster of which only 50 examples were ever built, is so special and rare that its owner would think more than twice before attempting even the slightest customization. Apparently that didn't apply to the Beverly Hills owner of the No2/50 Murcielago LP650-4 Roadster.
As soon as he took possession of the rare Italian supercar, the owner went ahead and transformed the Raging Bull model according to his taste.
All 50 Murcielago LP650-4 Roadsters were finished in a gray shade accented by orange styling touches, something that the owner didn't like. The supercar was stripped down to the metal and the complete interior was removed in order to apply a matte black paint job with gloss black highlights.
The roadster was also fitted with a set of custom made, 19-inch GFG three-piece forged alloy wheels with a glossy black outer lip, matte black center and orange highlights. The rims are shod in Pirelli P-Zero 245/30/19 front and 355/25/19 rear tires.
Other mods include a one-of-a-kind audio system with Focal Utopia KIT 7 component 3-way speakers that are powered by two Alpine PDX series amplifiers totaling over 1600 watts of power, and an Escort SRX radar detector with the main controller mounted on the center console.
The bespoke Lambo keeps the factory model's 6.5-liter V12 mid-mounted engine with 650HP intact.
You'd assume that a supercar like the Lamborghini Murcielago LP650-4 Roadster of which only 50 examples were ever built, is so special and rare that its owner would think more than twice before attempting even the slightest customization. Apparently that didn't apply to the Beverly Hills owner of the No2/50 Murcielago LP650-4 Roadster.
As soon as he took possession of the rare Italian supercar, the owner went ahead and transformed the Raging Bull model according to his taste.
All 50 Murcielago LP650-4 Roadsters were finished in a gray shade accented by orange styling touches, something that the owner didn't like. The supercar was stripped down to the metal and the complete interior was removed in order to apply a matte black paint job with gloss black highlights.
The roadster was also fitted with a set of custom made, 19-inch GFG three-piece forged alloy wheels with a glossy black outer lip, matte black center and orange highlights. The rims are shod in Pirelli P-Zero 245/30/19 front and 355/25/19 rear tires.
Other mods include a one-of-a-kind audio system with Focal Utopia KIT 7 component 3-way speakers that are powered by two Alpine PDX series amplifiers totaling over 1600 watts of power, and an Escort SRX radar detector with the main controller mounted on the center console.
The bespoke Lambo keeps the factory model's 6.5-liter V12 mid-mounted engine with 650HP intact.
In celebration of its own 80th anniversary and Alfa Romeo's 100th birthday, famous Italian design house Pininfarina announced that it will be unveiling a new roadster concept model at this year's Geneva Salon on March 2.
Pininfarina said in a statement that the two seater concept car will blend modern with vintage styling cues from classic Alfa Romeo Spiders of the past. Aside from the teaser sketch seen above, the Italian company did not release any other images or details on the roadster model.
In celebration of its own 80th anniversary and Alfa Romeo's 100th birthday, famous Italian design house Pininfarina announced that it will be unveiling a new roadster concept model at this year's Geneva Salon on March 2.
Pininfarina said in a statement that the two seater concept car will blend modern with vintage styling cues from classic Alfa Romeo Spiders of the past. Aside from the teaser sketch seen above, the Italian company did not release any other images or details on the roadster model.
We don't know if this dumpster's truck bed hydraulics were affected by a similar problem to Toyota's sticky accelerators or if the driver simply forgot to check the bed on his vehicle, but either way, the dump truck caused a huge mess in Turkey when it slammed into a pedestrian bridge over the highway.
The accident happened on Monday, January 25 and it was caught on tape by a surveillance camera.
Amazingly, even though there were three people on the bridge at the time of the impact, only one person - you can see him on the left side of the bridge- sustained injuries, fortunately, not life threatening. Hit the jump for the video.
We don't know if this dumpster's truck bed hydraulics were affected by a similar problem to Toyota's sticky accelerators or if the driver simply forgot to check the bed on his vehicle, but either way, the dump truck caused a huge mess in Turkey when it slammed into a pedestrian bridge over the highway.
The accident happened on Monday, January 25 and it was caught on tape by a surveillance camera.
Amazingly, even though there were three people on the bridge at the time of the impact, only one person - you can see him on the left side of the bridge- sustained injuries, fortunately, not life threatening. Hit the jump for the video.
Less than 24 hours after Toyota Motor Europe announced that it would be investigating potential accelerator pedal issues on its European models, the Japanese automaker released details on the affected vehicles. The recall involves a total of eight models. These are listed below:
-AYGO (Feb 2005 – Aug 2009) -iQ (Nov 2008 – Nov 2009) -Yaris (Nov 2005 – Sep 2009) -Auris (Oct 2006 – 5 Jan 2010) -Corolla (Oct 2006 – Dec 2009) -Verso (Feb 2009 – 5 Jan 2010) -Avensis (Nov 2008 – Dec 2009) -RAV4 (Nov 2005 – Nov 2009)
The company said that precise number of involved units is still under investigation, but may reach up to a total of 1.8 million vehicles in the Old Continent, adding that no Lexus or other Toyota models are affected by the recall to solve a potential accelerator pedal issue.
"Toyota's policy is to put its customers first, in all circumstances", said Tadashi Arashima, President and CEO of Toyota Motor Europe.
"We understand that the current situation is creating concerns, and we deeply regret it. We would also like to reassure customers: the potential accelerator pedal issue only occurs in very rare circumstances. The announced action is a preventive measure aimed to guarantee the highest safety standards to all customers."
According to Toyota, there is a chance that certain accelerator pedal mechanisms on the affected models may, in rare instances, mechanically stick in a partially depressed position or return slowly to the idle position
Toyota said that the issue is caused because the accelerator pedal mechanisms concerned may become worn.
The Japanese automaker added that only a limited number of incidents have been reported in Europe, and that the company is not aware of any accident resulting from this issue.
Earlier this week, Toyota suspended sales of eight vehicles in the U.S. due to the sticky accelerator problem while the firm also added another 1.1 million vehicles to last fall's recall of 4.3 million vehicles in the USA.
Less than 24 hours after Toyota Motor Europe announced that it would be investigating potential accelerator pedal issues on its European models, the Japanese automaker released details on the affected vehicles. The recall involves a total of eight models. These are listed below:
-AYGO (Feb 2005 – Aug 2009) -iQ (Nov 2008 – Nov 2009) -Yaris (Nov 2005 – Sep 2009) -Auris (Oct 2006 – 5 Jan 2010) -Corolla (Oct 2006 – Dec 2009) -Verso (Feb 2009 – 5 Jan 2010) -Avensis (Nov 2008 – Dec 2009) -RAV4 (Nov 2005 – Nov 2009)
The company said that precise number of involved units is still under investigation, but may reach up to a total of 1.8 million vehicles in the Old Continent, adding that no Lexus or other Toyota models are affected by the recall to solve a potential accelerator pedal issue.
"Toyota's policy is to put its customers first, in all circumstances", said Tadashi Arashima, President and CEO of Toyota Motor Europe.
"We understand that the current situation is creating concerns, and we deeply regret it. We would also like to reassure customers: the potential accelerator pedal issue only occurs in very rare circumstances. The announced action is a preventive measure aimed to guarantee the highest safety standards to all customers."
According to Toyota, there is a chance that certain accelerator pedal mechanisms on the affected models may, in rare instances, mechanically stick in a partially depressed position or return slowly to the idle position
Toyota said that the issue is caused because the accelerator pedal mechanisms concerned may become worn.
The Japanese automaker added that only a limited number of incidents have been reported in Europe, and that the company is not aware of any accident resulting from this issue.
Earlier this week, Toyota suspended sales of eight vehicles in the U.S. due to the sticky accelerator problem while the firm also added another 1.1 million vehicles to last fall's recall of 4.3 million vehicles in the USA.
