Leak: 2011 Hyundai Sonata

New 2011 Hyundai Sonata YF made the rounds today on several Korean forums revealing more details on the mid-size sedan's styling. As predicted, Hyundai's Mazda6 and VW Passat challenger incorporates a more dramatic design language than the current model featuring a four-door-coupe-like roofline and a stubby rear-end.


Although it is most likely that these photos depict the U.S. and Asian market model, the European version that will potentially be named ix40, shouldn't differ much - we suspect that the only significant change will concern the replacement of the Klingon-like front grille with something more in the lines of the new Tucson / ix35's grille.

The single interior photo shows the 2011 Sonata's instrument panel that houses a pair of deeply set gauges separated by small color screen.


We'll have to wait for the official reveal to learn details about the engine range, but four-cylinder and V6 gasoline units are almost guaranteed while the European range will also include Hyundai's a choice of four-banger turbo diesels such as the 2.0-liter four-pot with 185 horsepower.


We expect to see the new Sonata making its world debut before the end of the year and to arrive in dealerships on both sides of the Atlantic sometime during the first half of 2010.
via:carscoop

Dunkel Industries creates ultimate off-road RV

As they sat looking over the horizon, they realized they had achieved their dream. The guys from Dunkel Industries had driven themselves to a remote spot where they could just relax and enjoy nature at its tranquil best. What made the journey extra special was that they had gotten there in their very own Dunkel Industries Luxury 4x4. Now, "Luxury 4X4" might have some of you thinking Land Rover or Porsche Cayenne. If that's what you're picturing, then all we can say is "Think bigger." Much bigger. Like, so-big-we-can't-get-it-into-the-frame bigger. The Dunkel version of a Luxury 4X4 starts with a Ford F-650 commercial chassis and winds up as the ultimate off-road recreational vehicle.


As their website puts it, Dunkel industries was built on the childhood dream of never having to stop because the trail was 'more than the RV could handle.' So they created a vehicle with "unlimited versatility" that utilizes a Fabco military-grade 4x4 system, capable of driving the luxurious "custom wood, leather and Fiberglass interior" to places no RV dares to go. And in case you want to bring some smaller toys along with you into the wilderness, the bed is big enough to haul a car. That bed also articulates to serve as a ramp to load dirtbikes or ATVs onto the roof. No trailer necessary and no 55-mph limitations for this beast.


Dunkel Industries Luxury 4X4 Build Sheet

• Custom Seats
• Custom Cabinets
• Center Dash with Navigation, Stereo, Bluetooth, DVD, CD, and Laptop
• Rear Bed/Seat
• Custom one touch entry Stairwell
• Tilt-Bed with ramps
• Truck Levelers
• Extra Water
• 3 Winches
• Tow Package with air hook-ups
• 3 windshield wipers
• Custom Rims and Tires
• Custom Grille
• Custom Bumpers with lights
• 2 Flat Screens 17" and 12"
• LED Lighting (above and under cabinets)
• Rear Closet with Drawer
• 2 Custom Pull Out Tables
• 2 Hideaway Boxes (each side of rear seat)
• 3200 Onan
• Inverter
• Kitchen Sink (folding)
• 2 Burner Stove
• Refridgerator
• Aluminum Bed deck with Tie downs
• Upper Deck (with More Storage)
• Rear Pental Hitch (pivot with spring)
• Front Tow Bar
• Drivers air ride seat
• Upper Cabinets (6 Total)
• Back-up Camera also available for left and right side
• Monitor for cameras
• Four house batteries
• 18,000 BTU A/C-Heater
• Air-Ride for chassis with seperate air ride for cab

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Oakley Design Panamera Turbo

British Porsche tuners Oakley Design is the third to show their vision on the Porsche Panamera Turbo. The Oakley Design Panamera Turbo features a number of wind tunnel developed aerodynamic parts and Dymag lightweight carbon fiber wheels. The engine outputs range from 580hp for a simple remap and modified exhaust to an expected insane 680hp for a fully modified Panamera Turbo.


The 680 hp comes by way of a fully modified engine. Partial mods with 580 hp is also achievable via the exhaust and a "simple remap" of the ECU. The titanium exhaust include quad tips, replacing the original system from Porsche. After getting carbon fiber upgrades, like a tweeked rear spoiler, new front splitter, and new 20" wheels, the company added a new front spoiler and new side sills resembling those found on the Oakley GT2. The roof has also been remodeled in carbon fiber, while still using the original Panamera sliding roof.


The strongest version of the Oakley Design Panamera Turbo that produces 680bhp will feature various other parts that are being developed with Oakley’s American distributer ‘Farnbacherloles’. The Oakley Design Panamera Turbo kit should be available from the 15th of September 2009.


Source: gtspirit

Frankfurt Motor Show: Opel Astra styling kit by Irmscher

IAA Frankfurt 2009: World premiere of the new Irmscher Opel Astra

The new Astra from Irmscher - exciting design and outstanding driving dynamics

On the occasion of the IAA in Frankfurt, the customisation specialist Irmscher for the first time presents the upgraded Astra. To accompany the nationwide sales start on 17th September, Irmscher offers a comprehensive sports programme for the trade. For this volume model from Opel Rüsselsheim, Irmscher has come up with a strikingly sporty design coupled with pure driving dynamics. The Irmscher accessories are characterised by unusually high quality and the seamless integration into the look and design of the new Opel Astra. The lrmscher exterior products harmonise perfectly with the proportions of the new Astra.

Outside

Balanced proportions and exciting design

The broad shoulders on the flanks, and gentle curves between clearly defined lines recall the design language of the Insignia. The balanced proportions of the new Astra imply dynamics at the very first glance. An attribute which Irmscher consistently underlines and develops further with its design ideas. Viewed from a distance, the eye is immediately caught by the harmoniously integrated front spoiler lip, the slim radiator grill panel with silver or carbon-look design rail and the track width of the Irmscher wheels with their Turbo Star design. The side view of the new Astra is skilfully enhanced by Irmscher with a side skirt which picks up the curved line of the side view. The sporting ambitions of the Irmscher Astra are also clearly apparent from the vehicle rear, where the agile and dynamic look are complemented by the striking roof spoiler, together with a diffuser insert and quad stainless steel exhaust silencer.

Inside

Selected materials and outstanding quality

In the interior of the vehicle, the driver and passengers want for nothing. The seats, door panels and central armrests are manufactured by Irmscher and finished in fine cowhide. The leather interior fittings have been carefully matched with the red bodywork. Irmscher provides additional interior refinement in the form of aluminium door-locking pins, sill panelling in stainless steel and aluminium pedals. All Irmscher accessories stand out for their excellent visual and tactile finishing quality and further enhance the already high-quality impression of the new Astra.

Equipment

Outstanding dynamics with high driving safety

For the new Astra, Irmscher has developed a new 18" wheel in the "Turbo Star" and "Turbo Star Exclusive" design. The new rim comes complete with the 225 cm tyre width. These will be followed shortly by 20" light metal wheels, also in the Turbo Star design. For the chassis, Irmscher offers a lowering of 30 mm. here the spring characteristics used ensure sportily agile driving pleasure, and in combination with the wide tyres provide greater track stability and even more driving safety. The exhaust silencer with its elliptical twin tailpipe not only emphasises the sporty rear view of the Irmscher Astra, but also creates the appropriate satisfying sound.

At a glance

The new Astra from Irmscher

Outside

• Front spoiler lip
• Radiator grill panel with design rail in stainless steel or carbon look
• Side skirts
• Roof spoiler
• Diffuser rear spoiler trim

Inside

• Complete leather interior including seats, door panels and central armrests, and matching foot mats
• Matt aluminium door-locking pins
• Stainless steel sill panelling
• Aluminium pedals

Equipment

• Light metal wheels in the Turbo Star design 8x18 ET 46 with 225/45x18 tyres
• 30 mm lowering of the chassis springs
• Left and right exhaust silencers with elliptical twin tailpipes

via:worldcarfans

The Abt R8 5.2 FSI -Ten cylinders. 600 HP

These figures make the hearts of sports car drivers beat faster: 600 HP (441 kW), acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.8 seconds, top speed of 322 km/h. The car to which these impressive performance figures belong is the ABT R8 5.2 FSI. Its V10 engine draws plenty of power from its large 5,204 cubic centimetre capacity – all the more if ABT POWER gives it an extra boost. 75 extra HP or 55 more kW provides a powerful trust at all speeds as well as increasing the torque.


The fact that the medium-engine super sports car becomes a winner on any track is not just due to its excellent performance characteristics, but also the perfectly coordinated bodywork package. It has been designed by the DTM crew of ABT Sportsline according to the latest motorsport knowledge, including the use of high-end carbon materials. The focus was above all on the optimum distribution of weight and a systematic light-weight construction.


“The 600 HP is not just intended to exist on paper, but also be available on the road”, says Christian Abt. At the same time the ABT R8 thereby looks extremely dynamic. The front spoiler, side sills and rear apron outline the bodywork and give it a more powerful presence even when at a standstill. They form one unit with the distinctive rear wing and the typical ABT 4-pipe exhaust system.


The super sports car is presented on BR-type 20-inch wheels which suit the classic design. The ABT R8 5.2 FSI is a design milestone and is of course very, very fast. This is because the 600 ABT horsepower contain, what the dynamic design of the car promises.

via:thaiautomaxx

eBay Find of the Day: 1968 Chevrolet Corvette SCCA racer recreation

Next up on the auction block is every Corvette-loving Walter Mitty's fantasy come true, a 1968 SCCA Corvette hardtop convertible race car. Okay, maybe that's not everyone's idea of the perfect Corvette, but for those of you old enough to remember the glory days of SCCA Trans-Am racing circa 1968, this car should hit all the right buttons.


What started life as a perfectly adequate, four-speed 327/350 optioned 'Vette, has been transformed into the very special race car tribute you see in our gallery. It's a street car that looks an awful lot like the Trans-Am racers of the late '60s and early '70s.


The good folks at 2nd Generation Automotive Restorations are the ones who turned it into what you see here today, minus this car's current fire-breathing factory race engine, a genuine Bowtie ZL-1. That's right, the current owner found one of the factory's limited edition Ram Jet ZL-1 engines (number 155 of only 200 made) nestled in a '55 Chevy show car.

The engine had just 36 miles on it and needed a better home. We'd say the result is pretty spectacularly awesome. This very car was featured in the August 2007 issue of Hemmings Muscle Machines and can be yours for a Buy-It-Now price of just $60,000 – it would probably cost nearly twice that much to replicate it today. If this sounds like the right car for you, you'd better act fast. Bidding ends today at 7 PM PDT.

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Video: BMW Vision EfficienctDynamics Concept unveiled

THE BMW VISION EFFICIENTDYNAMICS CONCEPT



The latest BMW Concept Car for the EfficientDynamics philosophy.



For decades, BMW has made the reduction of emissions and fuel consumption a key part of its product development strategy, just as enhancements to the dynamic ability of each BMW have been a lasting, sustained brand value. BMW's EfficientDynamics engineering philosophy - the pursuit of an enhanced, athletic driving experience while simultaneously lowering the consumption and emissions of each vehicle - resulted in the most dramatic drop in fleet consumption of any automaker from 1990 through 2005, according to an Environmental Defense study.



Now, the BMW Vision concept car clearly demonstrates that the EfficientDynamics objectives are fully compatible when applied to a sports car. Conceived as a 2+2-seater with plug-in full-hybrid technology, this unique car combines the performance of a BMW M vehicle with a standard of fuel efficiency and emission management that exceeds even the current levels achieved by the latest small cars. This outstanding result is made possible by the combination of BMW ActiveHybrid components with an extremely economical combustion engine, and outstanding aerodynamic qualities.



BMW Vision EfficientDynamics is the result of a "clean-sheet" development process to ensure that the correct achievements were made in the areas of efficiency, driving pleasure, technology, and emotional design. BMW Vision EfficientDynamics is the most comprehensive implementation of the EfficientDynamics philosophy seen so far. The powertrain provides a top speed limited electronically to 155 mph, with acceleration to 100 km/h in 4.8 seconds. Average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle is 3.76 liters/100 kilometers, equal to 62.6 mpg, and the CO2 emission rating is 99 grams per kilometer. CO2 emission management is even more outstanding when driving in the all-electric mode after charging the battery from a plug-in source: Taking all emissions in the generation of electricity into account, as prescribed by the EU formula, the car's emission rating is just 50 grams per kilometer.



Through this unique balance of driving pleasure and fuel efficiency, the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept car clearly demonstrates the potential of BMW ActiveHybrid technology, which makes its world debut at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show in the BMW ActiveHybrid X6 and BMW ActiveHybrid 7 production models.



The power and performance are made possible by combining a fuel-efficient 3-cylinder turbodiesel with one electric motor on each axle. The intelligent combination of these units, together with precisely controlled energy management, simultaneously enhances the dynamic performance and the efficiency of the car. Overall system output is 356 horsepower, and peak torque is 590 lb-ft. The special arrangement of the two motors and diesel engine allows all-wheel drive when driving in all-electric mode. The result is minimum power loss and a harmonious transmission of the power available under all conditions.



In its design, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics for the first time conveys the dynamic look of a BMW sports car to a hybrid vehicle. Developed with decades of experience in Motorsport, the body of this unique sports car is a result of intelligent lightweight technology and aerodynamic efficiency. In the design of the interior, the focus was likewise on both the fascinating driving experience and, in particular, on transparent, hands-on technology and maximum reduction of weight.



Turbodiesel engine with unprecedented specific output.

The combustion engine is a cutting-edge turbodiesel featured for the first time in the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept car. Displacing 1.5 liters on three cylinders, the engine consistently follows the downsizing principle of using a relatively small engine combined with a turbocharger to reduce fuel consumption.



Through its compact dimensions, the 3-cylinder fits conveniently in front of the rear axle like in an agile mid-engine sports car, despite the two seats at the rear. Fuel is injected by the latest generation of High Precision Direct Injection, and the turbocharger features variable intake geometry for maximum efficiency. Engine output is 163 hp with peak torque of 214 lb-ft.



The specific output of 109 hp per liter sets a new benchmark in diesel technology. The power delivered by the turbodiesel is conveyed to the rear axle by means of a double-clutch transmission (DCT). This advanced transmission technology, which already offers a particularly dynamic driving experience in BMW's M3 and Z4 Roadster, allows the driver to shift gears without the slightest interruption of power. BMW Vision EfficientDynamics features a newly-developed version of BMW's DCT with six speeds for maximum efficiency and flexibility.



Two electric motors for full-hybrid drive.

The combustion engine is supplemented by two electric motors. Consistently applying the BMW ActiveHybrid philosophy, development engineers followed the principle of "Best of Hybrid," choosing the optimum combination of a hybrid synchronous motor on the front axle and a full-hybrid system at the rear.



In this concept, the driver benefits from the efficiency of the electric motors over a far wider speed range than with a conventional hybrid car. The rear axle comes with a second-generation full-hybrid system corresponding to the technology in the BMW ActiveHybrid 7 production model. The compact electric motor positioned between the diesel engine and the DCT outputs a consistent 33 horsepower and is able to reach a peak of up to 51 hp. Maximum torque for the rear electric motor is 214 lb-ft, the power, either supporting the diesel engine or in all-electric motoring. When coasting or applying the brakes, the electric motor acts as a generator and feeds electric power to the lithium-polymer battery in the car. The electric energy developed in this way is therefore captured without any additional consumption of fuel through the principle of Brake Energy Regeneration. Energy wasted on the brakes of a conventional car is thus saved within the new power system for subsequent use in driving the car.



A second electric motor acts on the front axle. This engine, a hybrid synchronous motor, offers continuous output of 80 horsepower and peak torque of 162 lb-ft. Extra power of 112 horsepower is available for a period of up to 30 seconds, and, for a 10-second "burst," the electric motor is able to develop 139 horsepower. The power is transmitted through a 2-stage, single-speed reduction gearbox.



BMW Vision EfficientDynamics is able to run completely under electric power, with the power of the turbodiesel engine alone, or through an infinite combination of the three power sources. Depending on driving conditions, the two electric motors may be used both for accelerating and for regenerating energy when applying the brakes and while coasting. This principle ensures efficient energy management, with the charge status of the lithium-polymer battery constantly remaining within the optimum range. When accelerating, the electric motors help to boost the car for even greater performance, ensuring immediate response and a significant reduction in fuel consumption. For a short time, such as in passing maneuvers, the cumulative maximum output of all three engines increases to 356 hp, with maximum torque generated by the three engines reaching 590 lb-ft.



Lithium-polymer battery for electrical energy.

The energy cells featured in BMW Vision EfficientDynamics are housed in a chassis element running from front to rear through the middle of the car. The front unit is the lithium-polymer complex, an ongoing development of the lithium-ion battery. Overall, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics comes with a total of 98 lithium-polymer cells, each offering a capacity of 30 amp/hours and developing continuous output of 600 Amps at a voltage of 3.7 V. For a period of 30 seconds, each cell is even able to develop maximum output of 1,200 Amps.



Serial arrangement of the lithium-polymer cells serves to generate nominal voltage of 364 volts, the gross storage capacity of the battery is 10.8 kW/h. With an unusually high discharge capacity of 80 percent, the battery delivers 8.6 kW/h for driving the car. This superior performance comes on overall weight of the entire energy storage system of just 187 lb. A further advantage is that through their optimum dimensions tailored to the specific qualities and features of the car, the lithium-polymer cells, together with the operating strategy chosen with a concept of "forward looking" energy management, reduces the thermal load acting on the battery to such an extent that there is no need for active cooling.



Plug-in solution: convenient charging of the electric power system from a conventional power socket.

Brake Energy Regeneration captures electric power generated while driving without additional fuel consumption, which is subsequently used to supply power to the electric motors and on-board network. A further option is to connect the lithium-polymer cells to a conventional power socket for a simple and efficient charge process, using a plug-in connector in the front-right wing of the car. Connected to a standard EU power outlet (220 V, 16 Amps), the system requires a maximum of 2 ½ hours to fully charge the lithium-polymer cells. And wherever a power source with higher voltage and amperage (380 V, 32 Amps) is available, the charge time is an even shorter 44 minutes.



In addition to electrical energy storage, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics comes with a conventional fuel tank at the rear end of the central chassis tunnel, offering a capacity of 6.6 gallons. Running on diesel fuel alone, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics is able to cover a distance of approximately 400 miles with its combustion engine. Benefitting from an extra range of up to 31 miles in the all-electric mode, the car offers an overall range of approximately 431 miles. As a result, this unique concept car offers all the requirements for using energy with maximum efficiency and at the same time experiencing the dynamic performance typical of BMW without any restriction of everyday driving qualities.



Performance, fuel efficiency and emission management opening new dimensions in hybrid technology.

The power delivered by the two electric motors and single diesel 3-cylinder engine gives the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept a level of performance superior to anything provided so far by a hybrid vehicle. Acceleration from a standstill to 100 km/h, for example, comes in just 4.8 seconds and the car could exceed its electronically-limited 155 mph top speed.



At the same time fuel efficiency and emission management now reach a standard only achieved, if at all, by far less powerful small cars conceived for city traffic and short distances. Applying the criteria of the EU test cycle, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics offers average fuel consumption equal to 62.6 mpg. CO2 emissions, in turn, are 99 grams per kilometer. These consumption and emission figures are measured on a consistent internal power balance, meaning that the batteries and storage media for electrical energy maintain the same charge level throughout the entire test cycle (with the same level at the beginning and end) and are charged while driving only by the car's on-board systems.



As a plug-in hybrid, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics is able to cover the entire drive cycle for measuring fuel consumption also with its combustion engine completely switched off. Then, to subsequently charge the lithium-polymer cells to the same status as when setting off, all the driver has to do is connect the car to an external power grid. To determine the consumption of electric power, the only requirement is to compare the charge level of the battery before and after the test cycle. Applying this measurement process, the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept car consumes 17.5 kW/h per 100 kilometers, equal to a CO2 emission rating of just 50 grams per kilometer in the EU test cycle.



To determine the total volume of CO2 emissions when driving in the all-electric mode, new legal standards for measuring the level of fuel consumption are currently being prepared for hybrid and electric cars with a plug-in power supply. Applying this calculation method, the CO2 emission ratings generated by BMW Vision EfficientDynamics are reduced further to just one-third of the original figure of 99 grams per kilometer. Clearly, this significant reduction of emissions opens up a new dimension in BMW's EfficientDynamics development strategy in this unique concept car.



Aerodynamic qualities reflecting BMW's Motorsport experience.

BMW Vision EfficientDynamics also takes a new approach in its design and streamlining, the body and the interior clearly expressing the unique combination of supreme efficiency and the sporting performance of the brand. Following BMW's design language, this concept car visualizes both highly efficient aerodynamics and intelligent lightweight construction.



In its design, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics differs from the usual low-emission car concepts. The principle of "form follows function" is not just for the overall look of the car, but embraces each and every detail. Measuring 48.8" in height and boasting a sweeping, arch-like roofline, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics offers the slender silhouette of a classic Gran Turismo. With the combustion engine fitted in front of the rear axle, the designers have succeeded in giving the car a very low front end, with the flow of air being further smoothened by active louvers in front of the radiator, which close completely when the need for cooling air is low. This efficient function follows in the footsteps of the active air flap control already used as a feature of BMW EfficientDynamics in some of BMW's current production models. As a further highlight, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics guides air smoothly and exactly as required into the car through an active air intake at the front.



Numerous details in the design of the body are based on the know-how BMW has gained in Motorsport, a number of body elements serving as air deflectors and guide vanes. Designed as ducts, for example, the A-pillars serve to channel the flow of air in the same way as the rear lights with their wing profile. The floor of the car is fully covered from front to rear and from one side to the other, thus maintaining a smooth surface to avoid any air swirl liable to increase fuel consumption. Slender openings around the front air dam guide the air flowing specifically into two closed ducts leading inside the front air dam to the wheel arches where the air comes out again through a very slim aperture at high speed, flowing just next to the outer wheel flanks. This air jet rests on the front wheels like a curtain and is therefore referred to most appropriately as the "air curtain." It provides a highly stabilizing effect.



Overall vehicle concept for a drag coefficient of just 0.22.

To further optimize the aerodynamic qualities of the entire vehicle and keep rolling resistance to a minimum, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics comes with tires and wheels of quite unusual size on a sports car. The tires measure 195/55, while large 21-inch wheels provide a contact surface on the road otherwise offered only by a much wider tire. In combination with the sophisticated axle geometry, this ensures agile driving behavior.



The extra-large wheel covers extending over part of the tire flanks add to the unique, very different look of BMW Vision EfficientDynamics from the side. The blade profile integrated in the wheels serves furthermore to reduce the negative effect of the turning wheels on the overall aerodynamics of the car. In all, these features optimizing the aerodynamic qualities of the car give the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept car a very low drag factor (CX) of just 0.22.



Technological look as a strong impression of intelligent lightweight construction.

In both exterior and interior design, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics stands out clearly as a strong spearhead in technology. Many components of the vehicle are presented in full view expressing the "transparent" character of the car as a powerful visual feature of lightweight technology. The chassis and suspension of BMW Vision EfficientDynamics are made completely of aluminum; the roof and the outer skin on the doors are made almost completely of a special polycarbonate glass automatically darkening as a function of the light shining on the car.



Measuring 181.1" in length, 74.8" in width and 48.8" in height, this unique concept car offers ample space for up to four passengers and their luggage. Thanks to the consistent lightweight construction strategy applied on the car, curb weight is 3,076 lb, with the center of gravity remaining very low. In its power-to-weight ratio, the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept car is far superior to all other hybrid cars, achieving the same standard as extremely dynamic sports cars with a conventional combustion engine.



Carrying a maximum payload of 981 lb, this unique 2+2-seater is fully suited for everyday traffic. Luggage capacity of 5.3 cu ft, in turn, allows the driver and passengers to conveniently take along two golf bags. And to meet additional loading requirements the backrests of the two rear seats may be tilted down individually to provide extra storage space.



Emotional design through sculptural shapes and layering technology.

Reflecting the innovative drive concept of this unique car, the design of BMW Vision EfficientDynamics likewise takes a new approach in combining functional progress with a most powerful emotional impact.



This has been achieved through the close cooperation of BMW's Design and Technical Development Divisions starting at an early point and continuing consistently throughout the entire development process. The result is a brand-new vehicle architecture with the drive components as well as the body and interior elements perfectly coordinated and matched to one another with maximum flexibility and individual style.



A fully integrated design philosophy also provided new options in using harmonized design principles connecting the exterior and the interior and providing an interacting effect between the two areas.



Sculptural design language giving BMW Vision EfficientDynamics a fully harmonized, complete look ensures the proportions typical of a BMW sports car. The front, side, rear and roof areas, for example, flow smoothly into one another. Dynamically contoured surfaces and shapes, in turn, create highly attractive light and shade effects accentuating the light and sporting character of the car in an emotional manner.



Layering technology developed by the BMW Group Design Division acts as the fundamental guideline in designing the exterior and interior. Applied for the first time in exterior design, this technology layers one surface on top of the other, creating very smooth seams and joints to reduce the number of components and, accordingly, the weight of the car. As a result, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics meets the most demanding aerodynamic requirements without using any additional body elements, simply through the structure of the surfaces optimized for a smooth flow of air.



Interior: innovative lightweight construction and unprecedented orientation to the driver.

In the design of the interior, innovative layering technology provides an unprecedented symbiosis of function and stylish shapes intentionally reduced to a minimum, consistently implementing and visualizing the lightweight principle also inside the car.



Specific components such as the central air vent not only serving to enhance motoring comfort but also acting as part of the cockpit, perform several functions in one. This multi-functionality is then presented visibly within the car, the use of particularly sophisticated materials providing a highly attractive combination of innovation in technology and quality clear to the eye and the touch of the surface.



This interaction of lightweight construction and individual well-being also comes out clearly in the design of the controls and switches, with a leather band, for example, running round the aluminum gear selector lever on the center console. Materials combining lightweight technology and all the qualities required are also to be admired all round the cockpit of BMW Vision EfficientDynamics, giving the car an unusually generous feeling of space for a 2+2-seater. The body-contoured seats, for example, are made up of a kevlar shell, a backbone structure, and seat padding with personalized fillings. Clearly, this combination alone ensures comfort at a minimum weight. The driver's and front passenger's seats are connected firmly to the center console to form a joint interior "landscape", while the rear seats anchored on the floor would appear to be hovering in space. Natural materials and light colors on the seat upholstery and all interior linings underline the light, sophisticated and sustainability-oriented atmosphere within the passenger compartment.



The instrument panel is deliberately padded only where technical components have to be appropriately covered, thus making an important contribution to passenger safety in the event of a collision. The instrument cluster played a fundamental role right from the start in the design process, serving as the starting point for all surfaces within the interior and thus creating a particularly powerful rendition of that driver orientation typical of BMW.



Innovative light technology: providing clear signals to the outside and offering soothing ambient illumination inside in a unique symbiosis.

LED lights at both the front and rear end of BMW Vision EfficientDynamics provide an innovative combination of the symbols typical of the brand and clear design language oriented towards trendsetting technology. The distinctive look of the dual round headlights characteristic of a BMW is emphasized in particular by the use of LED technology. The rear lights are integrated also in their function into the design of the entire rear section, forming part of the rear air deflector and thus merging completely into the rear contour.



Extremely flat and compact, the rear lights are made up of innovative LED units forming a smooth and consistent red surface when not in use. Only when used do the respective light chambers take on the appropriate color such as yellow on the direction indicators. This innovative light technology also provides an intense symbiosis of the exterior and interior, again promoting and further refining the driving experience.



This is also why the ambient illumination of the interior comes with new features and qualities, the light sources within the passenger compartment being fed from the positioning lights at the side, the rear lights and the brake lights, thus changing the atmosphere created by the lights within the car as a function of driving conditions.



The optical impression conveyed by BMW Vision EfficientDynamics also results in other areas from the symbiosis of the exterior and interior, eliminating the conventional barriers between the two. The lines within the interior, for example, continue on to the innovative design of the engine compartment lid, while in its shape the third brake light positioned higher up on the car follows the structure of the glass roof and tapers to the outside where the roofline moves down gently to the rear.



Overhead doors for convenient access to all seats.

The doors on BMW Vision EfficientDynamics open up like bird's wings, turning on pivots in the front roof column at the level of the side direction indicators. Since the car has no B-pillars, the large door cutouts ensure convenient entry also to the rear seats. The pivots on the doors also provide the base for the exterior mirrors, thus forming an ideal combination of function and aesthetic design. The structure of the doors is also characterized by several layers of materials on top of one another and the optical and functional symbiosis of the interior and exterior this technology is able to offer. Made up of three layers, the overall structure comprises the outer glass surface, an interim load-bearing layer, and the interior cover with its particularly smooth shapes and fl owing forms clearly visible to the passengers, layering technology again, therefore, opening up new perspectives.



The large glass surfaces extending far down on the body also provide a strong optical impression of the low seating position close to the road. And at the same time a stable sidebar ensures the body stiffness and crash safety naturally required on every vehicle. Flowing to the inside at its central point, this safety element also serves as an armrest. This interplay of the three layers also helping to minimize the weight of the car continues on the trim bar running along the door and extending out of the armrest, finally flowing into the outer door opener on its path from inside to outside.



Clear focus on the essential: 3-dimensional Head-Up Display.

Layering technology is also used on the displays in the instrument cluster and in the Head-Up Display developed to an even higher standard on BMW's new concept car. The Display now creates a powerful impression of three dimensions, at the same time providing the option to present various signals more in the front or more in the background, depending on their relevance and current driving conditions.



The Head-Up Display projects information important to the driver on to the windscreen. Indeed, innovative presentation technology even allows the superimposed presentation of several views in three dimensions, keeping, the gauge graphics visible in the background while the latest information on route guidance or warning signals from BMW Night Vision, for example, are shown in the foreground.



The sequence in which such signals appear depends on the driving mode chosen by the driver, the display technology, again depending on the driver's personal preference, enhancing a particularly sporting, a more comfort oriented, or an efficiency-based style of motoring. Through its design alone, the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept car clearly shows that highly efficient individual mobility may by all means be presented in emotional style. BMW already offers models in all vehicle segments which, compared with the competition, ensure the lowest level of fuel consumption and emissions combined with superior power and performance.



And now BMW Vision EfficientDynamics confirms BMW's commitment to offer a perfect combination in future of unique driving pleasure and optimum qualities in the responsible use of natural resources.



In the design process the need for sustainable management is borne out most clearly by the GINA (Geometry and Functions in N-fold Augmentation) concept developed by the BMW Group. In this case maximum creative freedom sets the foundation for innovative solutions challenging the conventional and meeting the requirements of the future. This makes the GINA principle particularly well-suited for developing visions for the future reflecting both the wish for emotional style and individual character as well as the quest for sustainable management and efficiency. From the dimensions of its wheels through the design of the rear lights and all the way to the configuration of the cockpit, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics therefore boasts a number of details both outside and inside which, going far beyond conventional solutions, open up a new approach to maximum efficiency and that Dynamic ability typical of BMW.



Forward-looking energy management adjusting to individual requirements.

With the individual system components on board BMW Vision EfficientDynamics being networked with one another, conditions are perfect for implementing a forward-looking system of energy management using information gathered by the sensors of the driver assistance units fitted in the car. Data provided, for example, by the rain sensor or Active Cruise Control with its Stop & Go function as well as by the navigation system, and subsequently evaluated by the central control unit, offers an overview of current and upcoming driving conditions. Then, evaluating such data, the on-board computer is able to forecast driving conditions on the stretch of road immediately ahead, such calculations serving to prepare the car for upcoming requirements and make efficient use of the energy available through optimum operation of all systems.



Should the high-performance central computer establish, for example, that the driver is about to take the motorway, the power used for running the cooling system is reduced for a certain period in advance, on the assumption that the short increase in coolant temperature resulting from such an energy-saving measure will quickly be set off by the higher speed of the car on the motorway. Another example of such pre-conditioning is the regeneration of energy from the air conditioning, from Electronic Power Steering and the Brake Assistant.

Need For Speed Shift

Game Info :

Developer(s)	Electronic Arts
Publisher(s)	Electronic Arts
Platform(s)	PlayStation 3, PlayStation Portable, Microsoft Windows, Xbox 360, Mobile phone, iPhone OS
Release date(s)	EU September 17, 2009, UK September 18, 2009, NA September 22, 2009
Genre(s)	Sim racing
Mode(s)	Single-player, Multi-player
Rating(s)	ESRB: E, PEGI: 7+
Media	Blu-ray Disc, DVD, UMD, Digital distribution

Summary

Need for Speed: Shift is one of the next installments in the long-running racing video game franchise Need for Speed published by Electronic Arts. It was announced in January 2009 as part of a three-game announcement that includes Need for Speed: Nitro and Need for Speed: World Online.Shift is under development by Slightly Mad Studios�who, under their former name Blimey! Games helped develop GT Legends and GTR 2 together with SimBin Studios�with help of Michael Mann (EP at EA Black Box) and Patrick S�derlund (senior VP of EA Games and head of DICE). In the new franchising model for the series adopted by EA, Shift takes its place aiming at hardcore gamers and focusing on simulation racing and realistic drifting rather than the arcade racing of previous titles in the series. It focuses less on street racing and more on simulating the driver experience and is being described as a racing game built by racers for racers.

According to an interview from Shift's producer, Geever, the game has been in development for two years. He also mentioned that the game will feature a new "Driver experience". G-force will play an important role in the game, as it will affect both the player and the AI. The in-car view will also return, making its first appearance in a Need for Speed game since Porsche Unleashed. The in-car view will be highly detailed, and it will be possible to see the driver changing gears and moving his head to get a better view of the mirror. According to Geever, all of the screenshots are in-engine.The crashes will affect the players visuals. While crashing, there will be a temporary blur on screen. The sound aspect will have detailed car crash sound, as well as a sharp gasp of breath from the driver before a collision.

The car customization options will include cosmetics as well as performance mods and will be more in depth, affecting aspects such as alignment, aerodynamics, tires, brakes, differential, and gears.Nitrous will also be an option for tuning, but different from previous Need for Speed games as it will be simulated more realisticly.It will be also possible to customize both the interior and the exterior of the car. The game will also have both real-life tracks such as Brands Hatch and fictitious tracks.

Game Features

• Physics model of NFS: Shift is based on those of the �Ferrari Project�.


• Professional setting is more accurate to drive than in GTR2.



• Eero Piitulainen of Richard Burns Rally has developed a totally new tire-physics model which is mainly responsible for the new physics.


• The difference between the 3 physics-models is in assist levels, while the lowest setting will provide around 10% of more tire grip for beginners.


• Lots of effort has gone into handling development so the game can be driven with a controller.



• Professional setting will require a wheel in order to successfully manage throttle/braking and steering inputs.


• Shift will feature different car classes - from normal cars like the Golf GTI up to racing cars like the Aston Martin DBR9.


• All cars can be upgraded and tuned from the inside-out.



• Most tracks are licensed European and American circuits with few non-existing tracks.


• There will be few city-circuits.


• The cockpit is the most important visual feature of the game.



• Head-physics is the key difference point to other titles.

Cars

The game will feature 67 cars, ranging from classic cars to modern sport cars. Cars in the game include the Nissan Skyline 2000GT-R, the Mazda RX-7 and the McLaren F1. Electronic Arts announced on May 29 that the featured car for the cover of the game would be the 2009 BMW M3 GT2.

Soundtracks

The soundtrack of Shift will remain similar to that of EA's prior driving sim, Need for Speed: ProStreet, featuring a scored soundtrack rather than a general track list as is seen in previous titles such as Need for Speed: Most Wanted, and Need for Speed: Carbon

Minimum System Requirements

Operating System:	Windows XP Service Pack 3 or Vista Service Pack 1
Processor:	Intel Pentium 4 (or equivalent) CPU running at 3,2GHz or higher (3.4GHz for Windows Vista)
Memory:	1GB RAM (Vista 2GB) Recommended: 2GB RAM (Vista 3GB)
Graphic Card:	256 MB RAM with Pixel Shader 3 (PCI-Ex)
Sound Card:	DirectX 9.0 compatible sound card
DirectX:	DirectX 9.0c compliant card (DirectX 10.1 compliant if applicable)
Optical Drive:	8x DVD drive (DVD edition)
Hard Drive:	10 GB of free space
Online Multiplayer:	512MB Internet connection for online play
Input Methods:	PC: Keyboard, Mouse, or USB Steering Wheel/Gamepad, or Wii Remote & Nunchuck

Need For Speed Underground

Game Info :

Developer(s)	EA Black Box
Publisher(s)	EA Games
Engine	EAGL
Platform(s)	Windows, PlayStation 2, Xbox, GameCube, GBA
Release date(s)	November 17, 2003
Genre(s)	Racing
Mode(s)	Single-player, Multi-player
Rating(s)	ESRB: E, OFLC: G, PEGI: 3+
Media:	CD, DVD, GCN Game Disc, GBA Cartridge

Summary

Need for Speed: Underground (NFSU) is the tenth racing game in the Need for Speed video game series developed by EA Black Box and published by Electronic Arts in 2003.Need for Speed: Underground reboots completely the franchise, ignoring the previous games and is the first game in the series to offer a career mode featuring a storyline, and a garage mode that allowed players to fully customize their cars with a large variety of brand-name performance and visual upgrades. All races take place in a generic city at night, though the city bears some resemblance to New York, San Francisco and Los Angeles. Rather than exotic cars, Underground featured vehicles associated with the Import Scene. Underground was commercially successful, and inspired a sequel.

t is rumoured that the car manufacturers were very strict in how their vehicles were to be portrayed in this game, especially considering the "illegal street racing" reputation of the tuner culture. EA took some effort in making the races appear as sanctioned racing events, and included a public service announcement in the game's introduction. In addition, vehicles do not have damage models.

In the Car Customization menu, cars such as the pictured Nissan Skyline R34 GT-R can be altered with performance upgrades and visual upgrades, such as paint colors and body kits.Player�s have the ability to increase their car�s performance by applying performance upgrades to the car. The player can upgrade their car�s engine, drivetrain, suspension, tires, engine control unit (ECG) as well as add nitrous oxide, turbo chargers and reduce the car�s weight (in the form of �weight reduction packages�).Because NFS: Underground is street-racing and car tuner theme, the player also has the ability to visually customize their car as well.

Minimum System Requirements

Operating System:	Windows 98 or better
Processor:	700 MHz CPU
Memory:	128 MB RAM for 98/ME (256 MB RAM for 2000/XP)
Graphic Card:	# DirectX 9.0 compatible 32 MB AGP graphics card with one of these chipsets Radeon 7500; GeForce 2; Matrox Parhelia; SIS Xabre; Intel 865
Sound Card:	DirectX compatible sound card
DirectX:	DirectX 9.0 version for fast gaming
Optical Drive:	8x DVD drive (DVD edition) / CD drive (CD edition)
Hard Drive:	2 GB hard disk space
Online Multiplayer:	Internet connection for online play
Input Methods:	PC: Keyboard, Mouse, or USB Steering Wheel/Gamepad

Production of Toyota Corolla transferring from NUMMI to Ontario

As even mighty Toyota finds itself with excess production capacity in North America and elsewhere, the Japanese automaker has finally made the decision to shutter an assembly plant. The loss of the Pontiac Vibe means that it wasn't viable to keep the NUMMI factory in Fremont, CA operating on its own, but the rest of the products it builds are still in demand to varying degrees.


We've already heard that production of the mid-size Tacoma pickup truck would be consolidated with its big brother the Tundra in San Antonio TX. The other remaining product from NUMMI was the Corolla sedan. The volume that had been produced in California will reportedly now come out Toyota's Cambridge, Ontario factory where the compact car is already built. It's not known at this time if the move will result in any additional jobs at the Cambridge plant. Thanks for the tip, Dave!


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Need For Speed Most Wanted

Game Info :

Developer(s)	EA Black Box, EA Redwood Shores
Publisher(s)	Electronic Arts
Composer(s)	Paul Linford
Engine	EAGL 3
Platform(s)	Xbox 360, Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 2, Xbox, GameCube, PlayStation Portable, Game Boy Advance, Nintendo DS, Mobile phone
Release date(s)	November 11, 2005
Genre(s)	Racing
Mode(s)	Single-player, Multi-player
Rating(s)	BBFC: PG, ESRB: T, OFLC: G, PEGI: 3+
Media	CD, DVD, UMD, GameCube Game Disc, GBA Cartridge, NDS Game Card

Summary

Need for Speed: Most Wanted (NFS:MW) is a racing video game, developed by EA Black Box and first released by Electronic Arts in North America on November 11, 2005. It is part of the Need for Speed series of games. The game reintroduces police chases into a large body of the game's street racing-oriented game play, with certain (but not all) customization options from the Need for Speed: Underground series. The game is also succeeded by Need for Speed: Carbon, which serves as a sequel to Most Wanted.

Need for Speed: Most Wanted 'Black Edition', a collector's edition of Most Wanted, was released in celebration of the Need for Speed series' tenth anniversary and in conjunction with the release of Most Wanted. The Black Edition features additional races, bonus cars and other additional content. The Black Edition also comes with a special feature DVD that contains interviews and videos about the game. The Black Edition was released for Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 2 and Xbox in the United States and Australia; only the PlayStation 2 version of Black Edition was released additionally for Europe.

Most Wanted features pursuit evasion in the game for the first time since Need for Speed: Hot Pursuit 2. In Career mode, police pursuits may occur during a race or during free roaming through the city, depending on the frequency of the police units in the area and the offenses players have committed. The player can initiate a pursuit immediately from the game's Safe House or menu by choosing an unfinished Milestone or a Bounty challenge. Pursuits can also be initiated by selecting an appropriate Challenge in the Challenge Series mode. Traffic offenses committed by the player are known in game as Infractions. These include speeding, excessive speeding, reckless driving, damage to property, hit and run (the player hits traffic and continues moving), ramming a police unit, immobilizing a police unit, dodging roadblocks, dodging spikestrips, and others.

Game Features

• Tune/upgrade the performance of your ride to beat any class of car.


• Daytime, illicit street racing.



• Get noticed and get challenged to races.


• Win races and ditch the cops to move up the �black list�.


• Skill-based cop evasion and upgradeable evasion technology.



• Rap Sheet inspired game modes.


• Epic Hollywood-style police pursuits with up to 15 cop cars onscreen.


• Interactive environment that aides in losing the cops.



• Drive across and into any open terrain/buildings.

Minimum System Requirements

Operating System:	Windows 2000 or better
Processor:	Intel Pentium 4 (or equivalent) CPU running at 1.4 GHz or higher
Memory:	256 MB RAM
Graphic Card:	DirectX 9.0c compatible 32 MB video card with one of these chipsets Radeon 7500; Radeon Xpress 200; GeForce 2 MX; Intel 915; S3 GammaChrome S18 Pro
Sound Card:	DirectX 9.0 compatible sound card
DirectX:	DirectX 9.0 version for fast gaming or equivalent
Optical Drive:	8x DVD drive (DVD edition) / CD drive (CD edition)
Hard Drive:	3 GB hard disk space
Online Multiplayer:	Internet connection for online play
Input Methods:	Keyboard and mouse, Steering Wheel, Gamepad

Need For Speed Carbon

Game Info :

Developer(s)	EA Black Box, EA UK
Publisher(s)	Electronic Arts
Distributor(s)	EA Distribution
Platform(s)	Windows, Mac OS X, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, Wii, PlayStation 2, Xbox, GameCube, Game Boy Advance, Nintendo DS, PlayStation Portable, Mobile phone, Zeebo
Release date(s)	October 31, 2006
Genre(s)	Racing
Mode(s)	Single-player, Multi-player
Rating(s)	BBFC: PG, ESRB: E10+, OFLC: G, PEGI: 12+

Summary

The tenth installment in the Need for Speed series, Need for Speed Carbon delivers the next generation of adrenaline-filled street racing and will challenge players to face the ultimate test of driving skill on treacherous canyon roads.What starts in the city is settled in the canyons as Need for Speed Carbon immerses you into the world's most dangerous and adrenaline-filled form of street racing. You and your crew must race in an all-out war for the city, risking everything to take over your rivals' neighbourhoods one block at a time. As the police turn up the heat, the battle ultimately shifts to Carbon Canyon, where territories and reputations can be lost on every perilous curve. Need for Speed Carbon delivers the next generation of customization giving you the power to design and tweak your crews' cars in every way using the ground-breaking new AutoSculpt technology. Represent your car class, your crew, and your turf in Need for Speed Carbon, the next revolution in racing games.

Need for Speed: Carbon features 10 race types as follows: Sprint, Circuit, Drift, Checkpoint, Race Wars, Canyon Duel, Canyon Sprint, Canyon Drift, Canyon Checkpoint, Speedtrap, and Boss Race. Canyon Checkpoint is accessible only through the game's Challenge Series set. Boss Race is accessible only through the game's Career Mode. Most of Carbon's focus lies through various canyon races, which the game's theme is based on. Players have to race against other racers, drift through canyons, or even face off against an opponent in a one-on-one competition known as a "Canyon Duel", borrowed from Japanese Touge races.

As with Most Wanted, cops are everywhere in Carbon. Police chases can break out at any time, including when in Free Roam mode, when racing, or just after a race is completed. Some races do not have a chance of a police pursuit, such as Canyon races, and Checkpoint races. As with Need for Speed: Most Wanted, there are 5 conditions. Players have to be careful to avoid getting pursued by state or federal authorities. The Collector's Edition features three additional heat levels.Although the pursuit system is similar to Most Wanted, this feature has been reprogrammed in Carbon to ensure that police were not too dominant in arrest tactics in high pursuit levels. Some of the police tactics (such as the spike strips) while at the same time to make pursuits much harder to escape once a pursuit initiates.

Game Features

• Survive the Canyon - All-new Canyon Duel and Drift race modes are the ultimate test of skill and nerve, where one wrong turn could cost you more than the race.



• The City Is Yours for the Taking - Race for control of the city block-by-block by taking down rival crews on their turf, then defeat their crew leaders in life-or-death races in Carbon Canyon.


• Customize Your Dream Cars - The revolutionary new Autosculpt� car customization tool gives you the power to design and tweak your crew's cars in every way imaginable.


• Represent a Class - Affiliate with the Tuner, American Muscle, or Exotic car classes and prove once and for all who makes the best set of wheels. A new physics model makes each class handle and drive differently.



• Build Your Crew - Strategically choose your crew members and then use their skills on the road and in the garage to help you win races and customize your cars.

Minimum System Requirements

Operating System:	Windows XP with latest service pack
Processor:	Intel Pentium 4 (or equivalent) CPU running at 1.7 GHz or higher
Memory:	512 MB RAM RECOMMENDED: 1 GB RAM
Graphic Card:	DirectX 9.0c compatible 64MB video card with one of these chipsets: Radeon 8500; GeForce 4 Ti
Sound Card:	DirectX compatible sound card
DirectX:	DirectX 10.0 version for fast gaming or equivalent (10.1 for Windows Vista)
Optical Drive:	8x DVD drive (DVD edition) / CD drive (CD edition)
Hard Drive:	5.3GB hard disk drive space
Online Multiplayer:	512 kb/s Internet connection for online play, 2-8 Players
Input Methods:	PC: Keyboard, Mouse, or USB Steering Wheel/Gamepad, or Wii Remote & Nunchuck

Need For Speed ProStreet

Game Info :

Developer(s)	EA Black Box
Publisher(s)	EA, EA Mobile
Distributor(s)	EA Distribution
Engine	Havok, Heroic Driving Engine (PS3, 360, PC, PS2),Octane Engine (DS),Proprietary ( WII, iPhone)
Platform(s)	PlayStation 3, PlayStation 2, PlayStation Portable, Wii, Nintendo DS, Xbox 360, Microsoft Windows, Mobile
Release date(s)	NA November 14, 2007, EU November 23, 2007
Genre(s)	Racing
Mode(s)	Single-player, Multi-player
Rating(s)	ESRB: E10+, ESRB: E (DS/PSP), PEGI: 3+, OFLC: G

Summary

In the 11th installment of the Need for Speed series, EA shifts gears into a new direction, thrusting the player to compete head to head against the best street racers in a multitude of racing showdowns.Compete at the highest level of street racing with Need for Speed� ProStreet. It's no longer good enough to simply rule your local neighbourhood you need to dominate on a global stage. Build the ultimate battle machine, take it to multi-disciplinary showdowns and pit your skills and reputation against the world's best street racers. This is your chance to prove that you have what it takes to be crowned the next street king.

Need for Speed ProStreet is your ultimate taste of the chaos and unbridled adrenaline of street racing. Pushing yourself and your car to the edge can lead to mistakes and this time those mistakes have consequences. Think swirling fields of debris, shredded fiberglass and heinously twisted metal. Every dent, every scratch and every crumpled body panel is a battle scar, proof of your commitment and competitive mettle.

The advertisement of the game has recently come under critical fire for featuring topless models in certain ads. UK promotional material for the game featured in The Sun advertised the game with its Page Three Girls, Becky Rule and Amii Grove posing topless. Electronic Arts claims that the ads "slipped through the proper EA approval process." As a result, the ads have been removed.

Game Features

• Real, Adrenaline-Fueled Racing: Experience the raw power of steet racing with a brand new physics engine and feel the fire of competition with an intuitively refined AI engine that smartly delivers on real driving behaviours.



• Dominate Across All Racing Disciplines: Becoming the Street King isn't about winning one single event. You need to prove yourself in four distinct styles of racing. Unleash the power of the beast in a reinvented Drag mode. Master the art of control with Tandem drift, and experience the intensity and rivalry of elite competition with Grip Racing. Completely new to the game is Speed Challenge, an ultimate test of speed and control.



• Ride the Edge of Disaster: Street racing is violent and mistakes have consequences. Cars can be torn apart using truly advanced and comprehensive damage capturing technology. Witness cars colliding, metal denting, and debris billowing. To further amplify the realism, crash repercussions such as smoke, dirt spray and dust clouds can affect all racers on the track.



• Redefining Competitive Social Play: Packed with ingenious features that will amp the spirit of competition and create for the ultimate showdown between you and your friends. The rules have drastically changed making for a more intense and aggressive online arena.



• Performance Drives Results: Your machine doesn't have to look like much - as long as there are secrets underneath that hood. For the first time ever, see the impact of the "AutoSculpt�" technology on performance - all in real time. Sculpt your cars inside a wind tunnel and choose from hundreds of real-world, aftermarket parts to build your ultimate battle machine.



• Share your Tuning Capabilities with the World: Once you've designed it share it. The all new Blueprints feature allows you to upload your visual and performance customization settings online. Once downloaded, you'll be credited each time your design is used to dominates in a race.



• Photo Real Cars and Worlds: Boasts cars that exude power, menace and raw energy with their look and sound along with the most realistic smoke ever seen in a racing game. Authentic and relevant real world track locations and the best street drives from around the globe combine to create the most stunning racing environments ever.

Minimum System Requirements

Operating System:	Windows XP or Vista with latest service pack
Processor:	Intel Pentium 4 (or equivalent) CPU running at 2.8 GHz or higher (3.0 GHz for Windows Vista) or AMD processor at 2.8 GHz or higher RECOMMENDED: Intel Core 2 AMD processor or Pentium D at 3.2 GHz or higher
Memory:	512 MB RAM RECOMMENDED: 1 GB RAM
Graphic Card:	DirectX 9.0 with Shader 2.0 support compatible 128 MB graphics card with one of these chipsets GeForce FX 5950; Radeon 9500
Sound Card:	DirectX compatible sound card
DirectX:	DirectX 10.0 version for fast gaming or equivalent (10.1 for Windows Vista)
Optical Drive:	8X or faster DVD Drive
Hard Drive:	8.1 GB hard disk space
Online Multiplayer:	512 kb/s Internet connection for online play

The 2010 Model Year Lotus Exige Cup 260

Starting with the release of the Exige Cup 240 in '06, Lotus has built up quite the following for its track-focused but built-for-the-road model. For the 2010 variant called the Exige Cup 260, Lotus shaves off a few pounds by upping the carbon-fiber treatment.


Design-wise, the front end was restyled with a more angular air intake and a new aerodynamic splitter. By adding a carbon-fiber roof panel, rear tailgate, center tunnel, front splitter, side air ducts and rear spoiler, more than 25 pounds of weight was shaved - a hefty contribution to the close to 84 pounds total cut from last year's model.



Handling is improved with its 30 percent stiffer rear chassis, forged alloy wheels wrapped in Yokohama A048 rubber and two-way adjustable Ohlins dampers. Stopping power comes from huge 12.1-inch front and 11.1-inch rear cross-drilled and ventilated brake discs with AP Racing and Brembo calipers. Buyers can opt for a programmable launch control system that allows the driver to choose the number of RPMs they wish to use during a standing start.


Taking design cues from the Exige GT3 racecar, the 260 has a supercharged and intercooled four-cylinder Toyota engine that makes the sprint to 60 mph in just 4.1 seconds. It lays down 257 horsepower and 174 pound-feet of torque and comes standard with a lightweight flywheel, torque-sensing limited-slip diff, sports-type clutch plate and a smaller battery that further cuts weight.


he car retails for just under $75,000 in the U.K. and is street legal within the entire European Union and North America.
Source:blogs.edmunds