Tata Pixel, a cool city car concept

 

 

 

The Tata Pixel, with ‘Zero Turn’ drive and an innovative diamond-shaped door system, is a city car concept for Europe from Tata Motors.

The Tata Pixel also introduces “My Tata Connect” -- the first integrated human-machine interface (HMI) concept from Tata Motors for its new generation programmes.

 

 

Honda 'Personal-Neo Urban Transport' Concept Demonstrates Potential

For Ultra-compact City-focused Vehicle
Small car maximizes style and amenities

The Honda Personal-Neo Urban Transport (P-NUT) design study model demonstrates a futuristic concept for an ultra-compact and sophisticated city coupe, American Honda Motor Co., Inc., announced at the 2009 Los Angeles Auto Show.

Conceived around a small "footprint" for maximum convenience in tight urban settings, the packaging concept integrates a center driving position configuration and a rear powertrain layout. The exterior styling leverages crisp angles with dynamic flowing lines that originate from the front of the vehicle and span outward toward the rear. The end result is a sleek and aggressive exterior that also allows for a spacious and open interior with excellent visibility.

"A new generation is discovering the benefits of living in urban centers that provide convenient access to business, entertainment and social opportunities," said Dave Marek, director of advanced design for Honda R&D Americas, Inc. "The Personal-Neo Urban Transport concept explores the packaging and design potential for a vehicle conceived exclusively around the city lifestyle."

The exterior styling is intended to capture a future direction for premium sophistication while balancing the need for maximum interior space and an aerodynamic appearance. The interior layout, in conjunction with the rear powertrain design, contributes prominently to the exterior's overall shape.

The layout of the interior space, with its center driving position flanked by two rear seats, provides generous legroom for all occupants, roughly the equivalent of a mid-sized sedan in a vehicle that has an exterior footprint similar to a micro car. Interior functionality is increased by rear seating areas that fold up and out of the way to increase storage capacity. The windshield serves as a heads-up display for the navigation system and the back-up camera.

The modular rear engine bay, depicted on the exterior by blue composite material, is designed to accommodate a wide variety of potential propulsion technologies including a conventional small displacement internal combustion engine, a hybrid gasoline-electric powertrain, or a battery-electric powertrain.

"The objective of the exterior and interior designers was to explore the potential for a new type of small-segment-category vehicle that overcomes many of the objections for existing micro-car designs," said Marek. "While the Honda P-NUT concept introduces function-oriented concepts, it also shows that small cars don't have to compromise on style or amenities."

The Advanced Design Studio of Honda R&D Americas, Inc. in Los Angeles developed the P-NUT design study model. Honda R&D Americas began its operations in California in 1975 with local market research activities and has steadily grown its capabilities over the past 33 years to include all aspects of new vehicle research, design and development. Recent Honda-brand efforts include trend-setting products such as the Pilot, Ridgeline, Element, Civic Coupe and Civic Si Coupe.

Specifications
Size class: Ultra-compact
Layout: Rear-engine, rear-wheel-drive
Passengers: 3
Length: 3,400 mm
Width: 1,750 mm
Height: 1,439 mm
Powertrain: Internal-combustion engine, hybrid-electric or battery-electric

Lamborghini Murcielago LP 640 Roadster Car .Why to BUY

FRAME
Tubular frame made from high-strength steel alloy with carbon fibre structural parts

BODY
Carbon fibre steel.

SUSPENSIONS
Independent front and rear double wishbones, anti-roll bars; anti-dive and anti-squat; shock absorber system FSD self adjusting

BRAKES
Power vacuum assisted, H system with ABS + DRP, aluminum alloy calipers with 8 cylinders (front) and 4 cylinders (back)
Carbon Ceramic Brakes (optional)
Ø 380 x 36 mm and 6 piston brake callipers (front & rear)


Power-assisted rack and pinion

TYRES(front-rear) Pirelli Pzero 245/35 ZR 18 – 335/30 ZR 18

WHEELS(front-rear) Aluminium alloy, 8.5"x Ø 18"-13"x Ø18"

KERB-TO-KERB TURNING CIRCLE12.55 m

MIRRORS
External mirrors with electrical closing system and heating system, internal mirror with anti-blinding system


Electronically controlled
First step: 130km/h and closure 180km/h,
Second step: 220 km/h and returning to the first step under 180 km/h

AIR FLAPS
Opening:
1. Water temperature > 95 °C and speed < 180 km/h
2. 65 °C < Water temperature < 95 °C
3. external air temperature > 30 °C and speed < 180 km/h

Unique Yourself new 911 Classic Porsche Cayman (Distinctive. Resolute.Strong.Willed)

Design

The design of the Cayman models is befitting of their distinctive, sporty character.

Their performance potential is obvious at first sight, for these are true specimens of force and athleticism. Individual styling features help to define both vehicles so impressively.

A constant interaction of convex and concave curves. A certain style, like no other. Immediately, the front displays the kind of character that you expect to find in the Cayman models. The front end has been restyled with enlarged air intakes that hint at the performance within.

The contouring of the front apron gives the car an even more purposeful appearance. The front spoiler lip has been enlarged, further reducing lift at the front axle.

The front wings with their integrated headlights give the Cayman models a distinctively sporty look.

The headlights feature a brand new design. Both models are equipped as standard with halogen headlights, LED position lights and front fog lights integrated into the outer air intakes. Bi-Xenon headlights with dynamic cornering lights, including LED daytime running lights, are available on request.

Follow the car’s clean lines along the side towards the rear, past the newly styled and enlarged exterior mirrors, where the impressive design continues. The styling is emphasised by the distinctly pronounced curves of the front and rear wings and the shape of the doors.

Typically for a coupé, there is a gradual, flowing transition from the A-pillar to the rear. The sharper contour of the side skirts directs the air stream down to the side air intakes which are designed to facilitate considerable through-flow. The rear section of the side windows curves dynamically upwards. Extending beyond the side windows are two additional lines that direct attention towards the rear end. One of these lines continues to frame the large rear screen.

The second line continues its rearward path to the LED taillight module. The elegant, extendable rear wing further reduces lift at the rear axle.

Below, you cannot miss the visible hallmark of the characteristic Porsche sound: the stainless steel tailpipe – twin tailpipe on the Cayman S – integrated into the rear end.

The unmistakable styling of the Cayman models is complemented by the wheel design. The Cayman is fitted with 17-inch wheels as standard, the Cayman S with 18-inch wheels. A 19-inch option is available for both models.

The result of all of these measures? A unique appearance and refined aerodynamics with a low drag coefficient of only 0.29.

The Cayman models. Even more sophisticated, even more dynamic, and when it comes to style, they trust in only one direction: their own.

Concept

To accept no compromises, to make conscious decisions, to be governed by nothing other than one's own free will, and to have a clear point of view. A highly promising way to build a sportscar. For us, it's the only way.


It is from this philosophy that we developed the mid-mounted engine with a 3.4-litre capacity and direct fuel injection (DFI). The engine delivers a power output of 235 kW (320 hp) at 7,200 rpm, and a maximum torque of 370 Nm is achieved at 4,750 rpm. It has been possible to reduce fuel consumption by up to 15% and CO2 emissions by up to 16%, depending on the type of gearbox.


The Cayman S reaches 62 mph (100 km/h) in just 5.2 seconds. Top speed isn’t reached until 172 mph (277 km/h). Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) is available as an option. The fastest rate of acceleration of 4.9 seconds is achieved in conjunction with the optional Sport Chrono Package.


In addition to having a higher power output, the Cayman S also differs from the Cayman in its appearance. It has a front spoiler painted in the vehicle’s exterior colour, and a twin tailpipe in stainless steel. The sound? Distinctive. In keeping with the rest of the Cayman S.


But so much power also needs to be tamed. This is the task of the optimised brake system with four-piston aluminium monobloc fixed calipers in a striking red painted finish.


To deliver the increased power output to the road, the Cayman S is fitted with 18-inch Cayman S II wheels. Their design exudes pure dynamism – as befits the model's overall look.


In summary, the Cayman S is more than just a sportscar. It's a Porsche.

VarioCam Plus

VarioCam Plus combines variable valve timing with two-stage lift on the inlet side. This results in smoother running, better fuel economy and lower exhaust emissions. As well as greater top-end power and low-end torque.

This two-in-one engine concept seamlessly adapts in response to driver input. The result: instant acceleration and extremely smooth running.

The variation in intake timing is steplessly controlled by means of an electro-hydraulic rotary vane adjuster at the head of the corresponding camshaft.

To improve throttle response during the warm-up phase, VarioCam Plus selects high valve lifts with retarded valve timing. In the middle and low load ranges, low valve lifts with advanced timing reduce fuel consumption and exhaust emissions. High valve lifts generate high torque and maximum output.

Direct Fuel Injection

The engine of the Cayman S has direct fuel injection (DFI). With millisecond precision, fuel is injected at up to 120 bar directly into the combustion chamber by means of electromagnetically actuated injection valves.

The spray and cone angles have been optimised for torque, power output, fuel consumption and emissions by enabling a homogeneous distribution of the air/fuel mixture, and, therefore, effective combustion. Multiple fuel injections take place, depending on the driving style.

DFI improves the internal cooling of the combustion chamber by having the mixture prepared directly in the cylinder. This allows for a higher compression ratio (12.5:1) which helps to deliver more output along with enhanced engine efficiency.

It has therefore been possible to reduce fuel consumption by up to 15% and CO2 emissions by up to 16%, depending on the type of gearbox. Injection is regulated by the electronic engine management system. The exhaust gas cleaning system ensures that emissions remain well below even the strict limits of the EU5 emission standard, thus helping to protect the environment.

Cayman S exhaust system

The exhaust system – with twin tailpipes on the Cayman S – is made of stainless steel. Until it converges in the connecting tube, the exhaust gas is channelled through two separate tracts and, thanks to separate exhaust gas cleaning systems, the exhaust gas can flow more freely – for increased power and torque.


The stereo lambda control circuitry controls and monitors each cylinder bank separately. For each exhaust tract, four corresponding oxygen sensors regulate the composition of the exhaust gas and monitor the conversion of pollutants in the catalytic converters.


A sports exhaust system – for a more resonant sound – is available as an option for each of the Cayman models.

Manual Gearbox

Fitted as standard in each of the Cayman models is a six-speed manual gearbox. The shift throw is short and precise, the tuning is sporty – as befits the character of the Cayman models. The dual-mass flywheel minimises engine noise and the control cable mechanism prevents vibrations from being transmitted to the gear lever.

Bracking System

The acceleration of the Cayman models is impressive. Even more impressive, perhaps, is the vehicle’s maximum braking power, which comfortably tames the power of the engine.

Four-piston aluminium monobloc brake calipers are fitted front and rear. Offering excellent rigidity, they are compact and save on weight. Their superior responsiveness, for fast and sensitive braking, sets them apart. A brake booster provides assistance, reducing pedal effort whilst maintaining a powerful braking effect.

A special ventilation system, whereby the entire wheel brake is supplied with cooling air by openings in the front end and special channelling systems, increases the stability of the brakes during heavy use.

For the Cayman models, the braking system has been modified to cope with the increased engine power. Just like the Cayman S, the front axle of the Cayman features internally vented brake discs with a diameter of 318 mm. On both models, 299 mm brake discs are fitted to the rear axle. The brake pads have also been optimised for improved braking performance. The rear brake discs of the Cayman S are 4 mm thicker than those of the Cayman, which increases stability under load even further. To distinguish them visually, the brake calipers on the Cayman have a black anodised finish while those on the Cayman S are painted red.

For reduced weight, optimum braking in the wet and improved cooling, the brake discs on both models are cross-drilled.

For the Cayman S, the Porsche Ceramic Composite Brake (PCCB) is available as an option.

Anti Theft Protection

Both models are equipped with an immobiliser with in-key transponder. In addition, the Cayman S has an alarm system with contact-sensitive exterior protection as standard (optional for the Cayman). It is activated and deactivated by the remote control integrated in the ignition key, which is also used to lock and unlock the doors. Radar-based interior surveillance is available as an option for both models.

Vehicle Tracking System

In conjunction with the alarm system, this optional preparation enables future installation of a vehicle tracking system available from Porsche Tequipment. It makes it possible to locate a stolen vehicle across most of the countries of Europe. The package includes a special wiring loom and a higher-capacity battery. A tilt sensor for the alarm system is included.

CO2 EMMISSIONS

In an era of intensifying debate about global climate change and CO2 emissions, every automotive manufacturer is asking itself what it has to offer in terms of environmental protection. Our answer has long been the same: maximum efficiency.

Porsche has been reducing the CO2 emissions of its vehicles annually by an average of 1.7%. In relation to power output (g/km per hp), Porsche is already among those manufacturers achieving the lowest CO2 emissions. This has been achieved through the new efficient drive concept (DFI), lightweight construction, optimum aerodynamics and low rolling resistance.

This high level of environmental responsibility is clearly demonstrated by our approach to environmental management at the Porsche development centre in Weissach. Here, all technological developments are carried out with environmental protection in mind. The goal? Pure performance – but not at the expense of the environment. A goal achieved by the Cayman models.

Nissan Motor Co took the wraps off its much-awaited electric car today

Yokohama, Aug. 2 (Reuters): Nissan Motor Co took the wraps off its much-awaited electric car today, naming the hatchback Leaf and taking a step towards its goal of leading the industry in the zero-emissions field.

Japan’s No. 3 automaker and its French partner, Renault SA, have been the most aggressive proponents of pure electric vehicles in the auto industry, announcing plans to mass-market the clean but expensive cars globally in 2012.

Nissan will begin selling the first Leaf cars in the US and Japan in the latter half of next year, adding two more models soon after. It expects production to start with around 200,000 units a year.

Twinning the car’s unveiling with the inauguration of Nissan’s new global headquarters in Yokohama, south of Tokyo, CEO Carlos Ghosn drove up to the stage in a sky-blue Leaf prototype, carrying former Japanese Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi to greet a throng of journalists.

“We celebrate today the start of a new chapter of our company’s life,” Ghosn said.

With oil prices topping $60 even in a recession and environmental regulations tightening, Ghosn said he was optimistic about electric vehicles entering the mainstream, expecting them to represent one in 10 new cars globally by 2020.

“We are seeing electric cars not as a niche car but as a mass-market car,” he said. “The big problem is going to be (production) capacity.”

Ghosn described the Leaf as a “powerful car, like having a turbo” charger except with no delay in response since there is no gear shift.

Nissan did not announce pricing for the five-seater Leaf, but Ghosn said the price, without the expensive lithium-ion battery that Nissan is considering leasing, would be within the range of a comparable gasoline-engine car.

Nissan’s Leaf has a top speed of over 140kmph and a cruising range of at least 160km, a distance that covers the needs of 80 per cent of the world’s drivers, according to Nissan.