Rinspeed BamBoo Concept, 2011

 

 

 

 

•  Rinspeed BamBoo Concept, 2011

The car irritates. Could be that it's the ingenious crafted creations of world-renowned New York pop artist James Rizzi. In any case, Frank M. Rinderknecht's latest work Rinspeed BamBoo Concept lets the sun rise over the over-engineered metal creatures at the Geneva Motor Show, whose single purpose is to never touch anything other than black asphalt. Yes, this is a taste of summer. A taste of beach and sand, of the lightness and lightheartedness of southern latitudes. It is a reminiscence of the Seventies, of the south of France, of St. Tropez. Its colors range from salmon to lobster and yellow, shimmering in the sunlight, staged perfectly by color- and adhesive-repair-specialist ("StickerFix") AkzoNobel. And one would expect to find Brigitte Bardot behind the wheel with playboy Gunther Sachs at her side heading towards Tahiti beach. But at the same time this car points to the future with clever innovations such as a communication display in place of a radiator grille and an inflatable roof that also serves as a beach blanket. Yes, this sun & fun car will blow the roof off!

Anyone who might think that this is simple retro design underestimates the boss of the Swiss concept powerhouse. He reinterprets the automotive references of days gone by and evolves them into the future. He plays with man's yearning to get back to the roots, often paired with the desire to be in harmony with creation. That makes electric drive, also for the onboard foldable two wheeler for the last "mile", a must. More than just about anyone the Rinspeed boss knows how to play on strong emotions and dreams beyond the macho horsepower affectation. This is the fundamental reason why Rinderknecht is considered an automotive visionary by many.

The latest creation from Rinderknecht - jointly developed and built by Swiss engineering firms 4erC and Esoro - resembles a grown-up golf cart at first glance. But one that offers a firework of innovation and design. This successful combination is most evident in the canopy-like inflatable roof developed by Swiss company Tecnotex. It is covered with water-resistant „Skai Neptun Caleri" with nano coating supplied by the Hornschuch Company. It protects the interior against possible morning dew. Nothing but air lends the two-piece waterproof design its rigidity. While the outside of the roof is decorated by a giant Rizzi beach scene, the inside is refined by visionary spinning mill Schoeller from Bregenz with thread made from genuine bamboo. No doubt, anyone going to the beach with this mattress will easily outshine any folding convertible roof, no matter how elegant and will instantly be in conversation with their beach chair neighbors.

In any case, Rinspeed Bamboo is the fitting sun & fun car for the extroverted communicator. Personal messages for the people in the vicinity of the car are displayed on the innovative "Identiface." This screen-based section, developed by Daimler subsidiary MBtech in Stuttgart, replaces the radiator grille, which is mostly redundant on an electric vehicle anyways. Thanks to its Internet connectivity "Identiface" can display the occupants' Facebook pages, news from around the world, the manufacturer's logo or an offer for a ride from A to B. Engineering service provider Helveting with support from Zurich Versicherung custom-developed the "BamBoo-Community" platform. This platform also offers additional practical features centered on social networking, sustainability and optimal driving behavior. In combination with the famous color-changing "Rizzi bird" on the rollover bar (green = I am single; blue = I am in party mood; orange = I need a break) it creates an entirely new automotive form of communication beyond deafening noise attacks. "Rizzi bird" instead of flipping the bird.

Simple but highly refined is the interior of the Rinspeed BamBoo. It's all in a name: The sides of the Bordeaux-red bench are decorated with the "BamBoo" logo and the "Rizzi bird," artfully woven with bamboo thread by Zurich weaver Weisbrod. The center seating surfaces are decorated with Rizzi drawings, and are made from breathable high performance synthetik „Laif" material. And both rear seats are inflatable and stored in two aluminum cases on the open cargo bed. You guessed it - they too can be taken to the beach.

The puristic dashboard is in the shape of a giant breadbox - and the fine cover made from braided plastics supplied by polymer manufacturer Ticona - opens in breadbox fashion to reveal the control elements and the futuristic VDO display. The far right of the glove box houses a seven-inch HTC tablet PC "Flyer" with docking station. In keeping with the times the tablet PC and the occupants' smartphones guarantee that the Rinspeed BamBoo and its passengers are always connected everywhere. The elongated "bread bin" is flanked by Harman JBL GreenEdge speakers in an avant-garde design. The world's leading provider of premium sound and infotainment systems is focusing on connectivity with its scalable entertainment system and the "Aha Radio" application. And in the center thrones the vent of the electric high-voltage heater from German supplier Eberspächer catem. By the way the Rinspeed BamBoo is started with an army knife. Typically Swiss.

With all this nicely packaged lifestyle the underlying technical specifications of the Rinspeed BamBoo are easily overlooked: The four four-seater features an electric motor from the German Fräger Group (German e-Cars) with 54 kW of power. This high-torque motor "made in Germany" accelerates the 1,090-kilogram vehicle to a top speed of 120 km/h. Lightweight construction does its part: The steel chassis with horizontal shock absorbers carries a sturdy composite body combined with the use of polymer plastic materials. Henkel supplies the structural foams as well as sealants and adhesives. The entire thing sits on 17" AEZ three-spoke billet aluminum wheels with painted inserts and eco-friendly Goodyear "Efficient Grip" energy-saving tires in 17". And the operating range? The battery's capacity is enough for 105 kilometers - plenty for a fun car for short-distance traffic between hotel, beach and restaurant visits in the evenings. Speaking of range: Rinderknecht has also partnered with energy giant RWE, whose "intelligent" charging station demonstrates how an innovative infrastructure specialist tackles the issue of e-mobility. The advanced charger communicates with the car across all borders.

And what effect will Rinspeed BamBoo have in Geneva? "BamBoo" push the reset button in the head of the observer, clearing the mind for a new way of automotive thinking. It exhibits simple, crisp lines; nothing is redundant - aesthetics in their purest form. Close your eyes and you'll find yourself cruising through pine forests and lavender fields in your mind. The little car was made for the beautiful beaches and vacation spots of this planet, making the "BamBoo" sort of a world car. No wonder that bustling Frank M. Rinderknecht wants to seize this chance as figurehead of Swiss watch manufacturer C.F. Bucherer and thinks aloud about a series production. Rinderknecht say this: "Yes, there have been constructive talks for some time with a number of potential manufacturers." To be on the safe side, the Düsseldorf consulting firm A.T. Kearney already has manufacturing and company concepts for a series production in the drawer.

KTM X-Bow R, 2011

 

  

• KTM X-Bow R, 2011

The KTM X-Bow R has been completely revised and even if the new developments of the KTM X-Bow R are not obvious at first glance from its outward appearance, a lot of things have been changed around the carbon monocoque. The engineers did not restrict themselves to improvements to the engine. In fact there have been improvements in all other relevant components to ensure that an optimal performance can be achieved. And that is because the customers had clearly expressed their wishes that the super sports car that many of them want to take to the racing circuit weekend after weekend, should be even more extreme, even faster and even more powerful.

And what the customer wants is what KTM delivers. In 2011 the product range of the super sports car with the carbon monocoque includes the KTM X-Bow R, the most powerful version yet developed. The "R" is the result of concentrated further development of this spectacular lightweight sports car. In the rear of the "R" is a 300 hp 2.0 Liter TFSI engine from Audi with a maximum torque of 400 Nm and this ensures an unbelievable driving experience both on and off the racing circuit, because naturally the KTM X-Bow R is homologated for use on the road.

At the German premium carmaker Audi, KTM chose one of the most efficient and powerful engines with a 2.0 litre displacement. This is all about an engine block that was used by the Ingolstadt-based company for a long time in the S3 model and which generated up to 265 hp. there. It was later also used in the TT-S with 272 hp. For use in the KTM X-Bow R, the reinforced block has a bigger turbo, an altered fuel injection system and the engine electronics have been additionally updated by Bosch Engineering Group (BEG). This means that the performance not only increases to 300 hp but also the torque: to be exact 400 Nm are set free at 3,300 revs and results in a very smooth torque curve which provides impressive drive in all situations.

The was how the KTM X-Bow evolved into the 'R' but it was far from complete. For the engineers, the additional power meant that the entire periphery - from the engine mounting to the suspension had to be reviewed. And that is why, in addition to the engine, very many other parts of the vehicle were either changed or completely newly constructed.

The stay of the torque support arm has been completely changed
60 hp more - a good 25 percent - caused far more extreme forces that meet and must be absorbed on the engine mounting points on the aluminium rear frame. It was the aim of the development not simply to meet the additional burden but to strengthen the rear beyond that of the 240 hp model. The solution was to reposition the torque support arm. Up to date this had been attached to the rear frame, now it sits directly on the carbon monocoque. With this, the torsional stiffness is significantly increased, especially when accelerating out of corners and the KTM X-Bow R handles even better on the road as its "little brothers" the X-Bow Street and Clubsport.

The entire drive train unit has been lowered by 19 millimeters
By relocating the torque arm and its connection, the developers then faced another demand. The entire engine unit should be lowered to lower also the center of gravity. The initial target could be even exceeded thanks to clever construction so that the drive unit now sits lower in the rear frame by a massive 19 mm. The main effect: the vehicle's already impressively low center of gravity has been moved even further down towards the road surface so that the central center of gravity of the vehicle is lower by 15 mm. As a direct consequence even higher cornering speeds and greater lateral acceleration of more than 1.5 g is possible and the handling of the KTM X-Bow R is significantly improved.

The suspension has been significantly revised
25 percent more power, higher cornering speeds, greater G-loads. All this has resulted in a significant additional burden on the chassis, which in combination with the tires represents the final link in a long chain for achieving optimal contact with the road. The push rod suspension on the front axle, which comes directly from the Formula racing sport, but also the suspension on the rear axle has been revised. The first step was trying to reduce the friction on the wishbones of the X-Bow. For this purpose special Teflon washers have been used to reduce the friction and play, which at the same time improving the precision and the response of the suspension In addition to this the engineers devoted time to the springs and shock absorbers: stiffer springs in the front and rear suspension and new damping characteristics meant that the KTM X-Bow R is characterized by an additional increase in the handling, even more extremely exact and delicate than up to this stage of the development.

The price of the KTM X-Bow R is € 58,795 (excluding national taxes and import duties).

The standard equipment (extract)

•     Carbon fiber racing monocoque with crash box in visible carbon fiber
•     Audi 2.0 TFSI engine with direct fuel injection and 220 kW (300 hp)
•     Mechanical limited slip differential
•     Smooth surface racing underbody with a rear diffuser in aluminium composite
•     Individually adjustable pedals
•     Adjustable and removable multi functional steering wheel
•     Sports suspension, adjustable in rebound and compression damping
•     Keyless go system
•     Painted rims
•     4-point safety belt
•     Special paint work in "R" design

Italdesign Tex Concept, 2011

 

 

 

•  Italdesign Tex Concept, 2011

4 real seats, front wheel drive and a gently aggressive line, the Tex fits into a long tradition of Volkswagen brand sports cars.

Compact, very low (1355 mm in height) and 1750 mm wide, the Tex at first glance looks like a sports car with great grip on the road, stressed by the large 19" wheels at the ends and generous wheel arches.

Its set-up is that of a classic two-door coupé whose clearly sporty personality is emphasised by an aggressive front and its rear flaunting two spoilers.

The side view is marked by lines that sculpt the doors next to the air exit of the front wheels and its waistline that rises up toward the tail.

The front is distinguished by a slender grille that encloses the light clusters in an unprecedented trapezoidal shape and three air intakes in the bumper/spoiler zone, necessary for cooling the brake discs and 1.4-litre turbo engine. The VW badge sits in the centre of the grille and is optically underscored by the V-shaped groove of the bonnet. Windscreen and roof are a single piece of glass that becomes dark electronically.

The large rear window dominates the rear and accommodates two spoilers, with the windscreen wiper housed in one at the bottom. Like the Go! previously, the light clusters are under the windscreen and are invisible when the panel is off. Access to the luggage compartment is permitted by raising just the rear window and, once it is open, the light indicators are repeated by the two supplementary tail lights located in the lower part of the bumper, at the sides of the rear air intake that also contains the rear fog lights.

THE INTERIOR
As in the Go!, the Tex's interiors have also been designed to offer the occupants maximum space and maximum ergonomics. The passenger compartment is definitely geared to the driver. All of the instruments are positioned in a functional manner and wrap around the driver so as to leave the passenger an incredible sensation of space. The large dashboard containing the controls and driving information grows smaller as it approaches the door panels so as to make getting in and out of the passenger compartment easier.

"We designed the interiors so that the first sensation would be that of entering a sports car," continued Fabrizio Giugiaro. "The driver has to be able to find himself, and this is why we chose finish details and elements that refer back to the classic idea of the sports car. We have adopted the large gear knob and leather interiors, with the speedometer and rev counter situated in the classic position behind the steering wheel and with 'analogue' graphics, precisely for that reason".

If the outfitting is classic in style, the contents are instead full of the maximum technology available today. All of the controls and indicators are housed in LCD screens, as is the infotainment console put on a touchscreen in the centre of the dashboard, set in a transparent structure that lays bare the structure.

The dashboard is separated from the central tunnel, an unusual solution for a car, but wraps around the driver with a graphic and colour continuity.

The two rear seats are independent and can be folded down.

STRONG HEART, GENTLE SOUL
The Tex is fitted out with the hybrid plug-in system called Twïn Drive conceived and developed by Volkswagen.

The Twïn Drive couples a 1.4-litre turbo internal combustion engine with a battery-powered 85 kW peak electrical system capable of developing 400 Nm when used combined together.

It has front-wheel drive with a 7-gear Direct Shift gearbox with gearshifting on the steering wheel.
Its performance is that of a pure sports car. The Tex is able to reach 100 km/h from a standstill in about 6 seconds, and reach a top speed of 220 km/h.

However, in this case sportiness and eco-friendliness are not worlds apart. The Tex is able to cover approximately 35 km in the totally electric mode, mostly enough for getting around during the day.

Gumpert Tornante by Touring, 2011

 

 

• Gumpert Tornante by Touring, 2011

Touring Superleggera and Gumpert have chosen the 2011 Geneva Motor Show stage for the world premiere of the Gumpert Tornante. Touring Superleggera provided the design and body engineering while Gumpert will take care of manufacturing and sales of the next model, complementing the Gumpert range as of 2012. The Tornante is showcased at the stage of 1:1 static style model in the best Italian tradition.

Fast Tourer
Gumpert have gained a reputation for their impressive street legal racing cars. They addressed Touring Superleggera with a call for elegance, more passengers and luggage space, improved comfort, access and ventilation, and noise reduction. However, the fundamentals of performance and dynamic properties had to be respected without compromise.

At Touring, designers and body engineers started then a process of creative elimination to define the true essentials of all the parameters involved, limiting unnecessary weight and volume. The result is still a thoroughbred, just a few grades more civilized, with some extra skills for an enjoyable voyage. It is called a Fast Tourer. However, let there be no misunderstanding about its intentions.
 

The project development
When selecting the partner for the new model's body design, Gumpert recognised that elegance is part of the genetic code of Touring Superleggera's creations. Even more remarkably, the paradigm of elegance was applied by Touring to the race cars too. This distinctive approach was at the basis of many masterpieces, like the 1940 Mille Miglia winner BMW 328 Berlinetta, the Ferrari 166 and 340 and the inspiring Alfa Romeo 8C2900. They all were redoubtable race machines with singular grace.

In turn, Touring was intrigued by the challenge from the young, vital and ambitious sports car manufacturer, known for uncompromised orientation to efficiency, high quality engineering and the constant quest for better performance. In the development work, the teams from the two companies discovered soon that they share the same respect for efficiency and essentiality. This facilitated the subsequent stages of engineering and feasibility study, and the merger of body and chassis required only minor adjustments from both sides.

Architecture
The space frame chassis is a derivative of the apollo and features the same central engine layout. However, the requirements of accessibility and inner space have dictated a number of important changes to the rolling chassis:
    the lateral member of the chassis is lowered by 80 mm in the door area
    the A pillar and the windshield are rotated vertically by 2.5°
    the B pillar is moved backwards with 100 mm allowing for 1120 mm wide gull-wing doors
    the H point is displaced by 210 mm in height and 46 mm in length
    the overall height is now 1215 mm

Thanks to the thorough frame engineering, the outstanding combination of lightness and torsional stiffness of the original chassis is preserved. The engineers target 100 kg and slightly lower than 40.000 Nm/degree, but the passenger compartment volume is now increased by 25% and the luggage compartment capacity is brought to 200 l.

Other modifications aim at enhanced ride comfort and driveability:
    the floor height is increased by 20 mm
    the shell seats are fully adjustable, heated, with 4-point belts
    the paddle shifters are standard feature
    sound and heat insulation material is fitted on the floor and between the cabin and the engine compartment
    glasses are double layer for better heat and noise insulation
    the ventilation system capacity is improved

A crash box in the front section, adapted from Formula-1 technology, absorbs the impact energy in case of a crash, improving the passive safety. Featuring composite body panels over the light chrome-molybdenum steel space frame with carbon fibre monocoque, the construction principle mirrors the original method patented by Touring in 1936, and authorizes the symmetrical Superleggera badges on the bonnet.

Design
Unlike other Touring creations, the Gumpert Tornante is not rooted into a specific model of the Italian designer's heritage. Aesthetically, the project started from a white sheet of paper, allowing the designer's full and free focus on the challenging package of the rolling chassis and its hard points. The new model should not only offer ample performance and superb dynamic properties and aerodynamics, but also adequate levels of comfort, interior space and ergonomics. The spirit of a true dream car, but with sufficient practical features to become a safe and useable sports car in today's traffic.

The Touring accent of the Gumpert Tornante originates from specific proportions and the balance of muscular elegance and introvert power, rather than formal language. The bodywork preserves its movement even when the car stands still, and when on the move, it expresses unique, elegant fluidness.

The prominent grille within the balanced front wings characterizes the Tornante's front area. The air intakes are pronounced, reflecting the care given to the air intake surface and the overall airflow.

The well-defined waistline reflects the functional separation between the greenhouse and the lower body. The top is a light area offering extended space for driver and passenger, overall visibility and sportive but comfortable 'life on board'. The muscular, though elegant shoulders announce the stunning performance of the power unit. Both the Gumpert Tornante's doors and the boot lid open with gull-wing movement, providing easy access to the interior, the mechanics and the luggage compartment.

From the rear, the low quarter panels outline the powerful curve of the roof. Below the waistline, the very visible air diffuser evokes the research of the maximal downforce.

The overall design breaths superior potential and performance in an elegant and slightly understated way, faithful to the Touring tradition.

Power Unit
The Gumpert Tornante has the genes of the Gumpert apollo and inherits its impressive V8 biturbo engine. Weighing only 196 kg, the engine plays a major role in ensuring the ideal weight and the fascinating driving dynamics of the Tornante. An angle of 90° between the two cylinder banks is a sign of a classic 8-cylinder engine.

Starting from the pure block from Audi, the engine is a complete in-house development. Thus, the manufacturing process contains among others all the moving parts, air and fuel management, turbo chargers, charge air-duct and dry sump lubrication. In the basic version this engine delivers 700 HP. In comparison to the apollo, the configuration will be optimized for the Fast Touring mission. This means more comfort and more suitability for daily use.

Alongside the V8 power unit, an alternative powered Gumpert Tornante is also planned for 2012.

Driveline
The fully synchronised, automatic six-speed transmission guarantees efficient utilization of the remarkable energy at the back wheels. The arrangement of the gears in a longitudinal direction in the path of travel ensures a very low centre of gravity and optimum weight distribution.

Extremely short gearshifts up to 40 milliseconds (torque-to-torque) are provided by the precise TT40e transmission of the apollo, where "e" stands for electronic gear system. Gear changes are faster thanks to rocker switches on the steering wheel. The Formula 1-type technology promises the ultimate in comfort along with best driving performance.

Suspension
The apollo derived built-in suspension ideally complements the body's sophisticated aerodynamics. The Tornante owes the finely tuned sensitivity of the suspension system and the optimised exertion of power to its double transverse control arm pushrod configuration at front and rear.

The double wishbones ensure that the tires maintain optimum contact to the road surface, independently of the bound rate of suspension system. As the suspension elements are linked to the main frame, the system ensures a responsive reaction and precise handling.

Chassis
Made of top-quality and highly stable chrome-molybdenum-steel with an integrated safety cell, the round tube frame is the base and symbolic backbone of the Gumpert Tornante. Providing additional space and comfort for its passengers compared to the apollo, the Tornante will be as safe as its racetrack-dedicated brother is. The Gumpert Tornante succeeds in combining low weight and rigidity with finest driving dynamics and comfortable Fast Touring.

TECHNICAL DATA
2-seater sports car with a mid-engine arrangement, chrome-molybdenum steel chassis with an integrated safety cell, doors and the boot lid open with gull-wings, carbon body, 100 l stainless steel tank behind the passenger cell with integrated catch tank, long and pushrod-operated double transverse control arm suspension with fully adjustable dampers (front and rear) and anti roll bar in front, ground clearance adjustable between 60 and 140 mm, two circuit ABS brake system with six piston callipers, inside ventilated discs (378 x 32 mm) at front and rear

Dimensions
    Length: 4,475 mm
    Width: 1,971 mm
    Height: 1,215 mm
    Wheel base: 2,700 mm

Track
    front: 1,648 mm
    back: 1,600 mm

Boot volume: ca. 200 l

Weight
    Kerb weight (depending on equipment components): 1,300-1,400 kg

Engine
V8 cylinder biturbo engine with 90° cylinder angle, closed-deck light metal crankcase, light metal cylinder heads with five valves per cylinder, four overhead camshafts, variable time of ignition (Vario Cam direct) on the intake, hydraulic valve clearance compensation, dry sump lubrication, double-flow exhaust system with 3-way catalytic converter, four Lambda probes for gas mixture and diagnostics, on-board diagnostic system, two Intercoolers, electronic ignition with a rested ignition distribution (eight ignition coils), sequential multipoint fuel injection, electronic accelerator system (drive-by-wire)

    Cylinder: 8
    Type: 90°-V
    Valves per cylinder: 5
    Cubic capacity: 4,163 cc
    Stroke: 93 mm
    Bore: 84,5 mm
    Nominal output: 515 kW / 700 HP @ 6,500 rpm
    Max. torque: 900 Nm / 663.7 lb ft @ 4,000 rpm
    Maximum: 7,400 rpm
    Litre performance: 123.7 kw per liter / 168.1 HP per liter
    Compression: 9.3
    Recommended fuel type: 98 ROZ / 88 MOZ
    Emission standard: Euro 5

Gearbox
automatic six-speed gear box TT40e with synchronization and oil cooling, operated with paddle shift controls, twin plate clutch configuration (diameter 240 mm), Torsen differential lock

Wheels
    Tires: Michelin Pilot Super Sport
        front: 265/35 ZR19
        back: 345/30 ZR20
    Wheel dimension
        front: 10 J
        back: 13 J

Wheel rim type: aluminium cast or forged wheels with centre lock

PERFORMANCE FIGURES
Top speed: >300 km/h (estimated)

Alfa Romeo TZ3 Stradale, 2011

 

 

 

 

 

• Alfa Romeo TZ3 Stradale, 2011

The Alfa Romeo TZ3 Stradale by Zagato is based on the Viper ACR mechanical chassis with a carbon fibre body. "Bellezza necessaria" is the inspiration of this car which matches for the first time an USA power train and can represent the first American Alfa Romeo.

Zagato's gentlemen-driver heritage, TZ3 Corsa has been commissioned by the Alfa Romeo Zagato collector Martin Kapp. The first Alfa Romeo TZ3 Stradale has been delivered to the US Alfa Romeo and Zagato collector (and Saratoga Automobile Museum's board member) Eric King. The TZ3 Stradale n°2 and n°3 will be delivered in Japan and Europe.

Both TZ3 Corsa and TZ3 Stradale boast a typical Kamm-tail (K-tail) layout. The solution became famous in Italy with the "Coda Tronca" bodies which were tested by Zagato in the beginning of the 60s. They reached their apex on the Alfa Romeo TZ and TZ2. Kamm Effect is part of the functional design approach that aims to the aerodynamic efficiency. According to this, the CX can be lowered by keeping compact volumes at the same time. The reduction of the wind resistance is assured with the Kamm Tail design, without any need of a very stretched "drop" shape of the tail.

Eterniti Hemera Concept, 2011

 

 

 

• Eterniti Hemera Concept, 2011

Eterniti Motors, a new luxury carmaker, makes its public debut at the 2011 Frankfurt IAA, the world's largest automotive motor show, and is previewing a prototype of its first product, the Eterniti Hemera.

Brand Launch and Hemera Preview

When launched in 2012 the Eterniti Hemera will become the world's first Super-SUV, providing new levels of luxury, exclusivity and performance in an SUV to create a new niche. The body of the car shown at Frankfurt closely reflects the final production version, although that will have bespoke Eterniti LED headlamps and lenses. All panels are new and made of carbon composite. The interior, which will be almost 100% unique to Eterniti, is in the final stages of prototype testing and will be revealed later in the year.

Eterniti is backed by a group of international investors and is an independent, boutique British marque, uniquely based in London, where it is establishing a hub with not only a showroom but an atelier and a build facility where bespoke vehicles can be created and hand-built on-site to any specification required. The facilities will be completed later this year, followed by further Eterniti-owned showrooms from 2012 in key overseas markets.

The business aims to help satisfy a growing demand for additional luxury and personalised specifications among wealthy car buyers, particularly in major cities, global wealth centres and emerging markets ranging from London to the Asia-Pacific region.

The company's debut vehicle will be a first step towards becoming a fully-fledged carmaker but will fully reflect the bespoke luxury objective. The Eterniti Hemera will be the first product in a space which Bentley, Maserati and Aston Martin, with the Lagonda brand, have identified for future product. It will be based on the most dynamic version of VW Group's latest-generation large SUV platform, the best in the industry. At Eterniti it will undergo a complete chassis-up rebuild, including a new, re-packaged interior, and the light-weight carbon-composite re-skin. It will also have additional engine performance, with the 4.8-litre twin-turbo V8 engine producing over 620bhp for a top speed in excess of 180mph.

The Eterniti Hemera will feature a limousine-like rear cabin, including twin electrically-reclining rear seats with heating and cooling, twin iPads with wireless keyboards, and a drinks chiller. This satisfies a specific - and currently unmet - need, particularly in Asian markets, for a car suitable for being chauffeured in as well as driving. Unlike a conventional limousine, an SUV's relatively compact footprint and wheelbase allow it to offer excellent handling and driver appeal, and the ride height and ruggedness are suitable for poor road surfaces which can make limousines and conventional high-performance cars impractical.

Production start early in 2012, with deliveries by the summer. Prices have yet to be confirmed, but will be around £150,000 for the standard vehicle. Buyers will receive a full, three-year warranty. Warranty and servicing work will be carried out on-site in London, with collect-and-return and supplemented by a 'flying doctor' service. Customers will have access to finance and insurance depending on the market.

People
Although Eterniti is basing its business case around meeting market needs, its people have a passion for cars. The team has extensive experience in retailing some of the most prestigious British and European luxury and high-performance car brands, including Aston Martin, Porsche, Bentley and Ferrari, in markets from the UK to Asia-Pacific. It has further experience in motor sport.

The engineering team is led by Alastair Macqueen, who was responsible for the development of the Jaguar XJ220 supercar to production and has won the Le Mans 24-Hour race three times, with both Jaguar and Bentley. Eterniti also has its own F1 driver, Johnny Herbert, like Macqueen victorious at Le Mans but in addition a winner of three Grands Prix during a ten-year Formula 1 career, including one for the British Stewart team. Johnny will have an active involvement in developing Eterniti vehicles as well as serving as an ambassador for the brand. Alastair and Johnny have a long association, having both graduated from the Eddie Jordan stable and then competed together at Bentley. The trim operation is headed by one of the luxury car industry's leading interior trim specialists, who has worked closely with marques including Bentley.

Future
Eterniti has a long-term plan. It will be opening an Asia-Pacific hub in Hong Kong in 2012, and showrooms in Tokyo and Taipei are scheduled to open by the end of the year. Representation in China will be established from 2013. The product plan includes a second Hemera derivative for 2012. Plans for another SUV and a high-performance car which could form the basis of a racing programme are currently being developed.

Saab PhoeniX Concept, 2011

 

 

 

 

Saab PhoeniX Concept, 2011

Sleek, innovative and exceptionally efficient: the Saab PhoeniX Concept car showcases design features and technologies which will shape the next generation of cars from Saab.

Based on an new architecture which will empower the next Saab 9-3 model, the Saab PhoeniX Concept introduces 'aeromotional' design: a visual evocation of the aerodynamic design principles and passion for innovation that inspired the creators of Saab's first car, the iconic Ursaab.
The Saab PhoeniX Concept embraces teardrop, 'liquid metal' forms and a dramatic jet canopy-inspired glasshouse that gives fresh expression to Saab's signature 'wraparound' and translucent ice-block design themes.

The clean, muscular shape enables an exceptionally low drag co-efficient of just 0.25 and also explores the potential for airflow management through the use of distinctive, side-mounted 'winglets'.
Butterfly opening doors give easy access to a 2+2 cabin that blends simplicity with technology. It has a minimalist, 'stripped out' feel, including a new expression of Saab's driver-focused layout and a world debut for Saab's innovative IQon infotainment and communications system. In true Saab tradition, there is also a surprisingly versatile cargo deck.

Under its rippling bodywork, the Saab PhoeniX deploys an innovative driveline, with an electrically-driven rear axle mated to a sophisticated 200 hp, 1.6-liter gasoline turbo engine. The result is an intelligent, hybrid all-wheel-drive capability that enhances driving pleasure while reducing fuel consumption. Combined cycle fuel economy and CO2 emissions are projected to be just 5.0 l/100 km and 119 g/km.

Aeromotional design
The Saab PhoeniX Concept's 'aeromotional' design theme is inspired by Saab's aviation roots and draws expression from Ursaab, the prototype designed by aircraft engineers that spawned Saab's first generation of cars.

The entire form of the Saab PhoeniX Concept is seemingly molded by the wind. Tightly-wrapped by a liquid-like skin, the teardrop cabin resembles a dark ice block and appears to erupt from the center of the muscular bodywork. Two prominent ripples flow along the hood into the disguised windshield pillars, as if barely able to contain a powerful structure underneath.

At the rear, the dark screen also bursts through the outer skin of the rear deck, The tapering form hints at the teardrop rear styling of Ursaab, while the 'sawn off', kamm tail echoes a form from Saab's first coupé, the Sonett.

The low, frontal styling features a stretched interpretation of Saab's signature three-port grille. A body-colored central wing is now dominant and, in keeping with the car's minimalist design, LED headlamps are almost invisibly located at its tips. The new grille and hood forms are among the styling themes likely to be seen in future Saab production cars.

Butterfly-opening doors provide enhanced access to the low-slung cabin. There are no visible door handles or mirrors to disrupt airflow, and small cameras on slim stalks provide rearward vision.
Roof-mounted 'winglets' enable Saab PhoeniX Concept to cleave the air as efficiently as possible. They channel airflow from the side of the car and direct it across the rear deck, reducing lift forces for greater stability without increasing drag.

Minimalist interior
In true Scandinavian tradition, the 2+2 cabin adopts a clean, minimalist look. It has the 'stripped out' feel of a competition car, with shell-like seats and metalized interior sections that mimic the exposed network of a rollover cage.

Fresh expression is given to Saab's traditional, driver-focused instrument layout. A circular pod in front of the driver, shaped like the afterburner of a jet engine, presents data in tandem with the head-up display.
Angled at 45º to the driver, a separate module accommodates Saab's advanced IQon infotainment and communications system. For good ergonomics, the 8-inch touch-screen is as close to the driver's finger tips as the steering wheel.

Saab IQon (see separate release for full details) is a ground-breaking car communications platform using Google's AndroidTM operating system. Based on pioneering 'open innovation' with third-party service providers and applications developers, it comprises an embedded computer platform which seamlessly connects to the internet when the car's ignition is switched on. The touch-screen provides access to audio and entertainment streaming, online navigation, on-board music storage and smartphone-like downloading of applications.

Red illumination for all instrument and ambient cabin lighting brings warmth and emotion to the cabin. This includes the floor, where LED light tubes are exposed by perforations in the black carpeting. It is all part of the new 'aeromotional' design strategy, incorporating 'fire and ice' effects.
The Saab PhoeniX Concept's curvaceous rear deck disguises a deep-opening tailgate. It gives access to a flat cargo deck, including fold-flat rear seatbacks and a cargo track for adaptable load carrying.

Efficient propulsion
Under its sculpted hood and beneath its cargo deck, the Saab PhoeniX Concept advances Saab's rightsizing powertrain strategy. Its propulsion system combines a highly efficient, 1.6-liter turbo engine with innovative, electric rear wheel drive technology.

The compact, all-aluminum gasoline engine packs 200 hp (147 kW) and includes variable valve timing and lift control, as well as start/stop functionality, minimal parasitic losses and a fuel cut-off function. A stainless steel tank is fitted, which is lighter and less expensive than a conventional plastic design,

The engine is supported by Saab's innovative eXWD system. It comprises a rear drive unit housing a 25 kW (34 hp) electric motor/generator powered by a small battery pack. Regenerative braking is used to sustain the battery's charge.

Now under development for the next generation of Saab cars, this hybrid propulsion system enables the benefits of all-wheel-drive while also reducing fuel consumption. Using a six-speed manual transmission, projected combined cycle fuel economy and CO2 emissions are just 5.0 l/100 km and 119 g/km.

The driver can select one of three eXWD operating modes. The default Eco mode delivers optimal fuel and CO2 efficiency with power assistance to reduce load on the gasoline engine at low speeds; Sport mode includes maximum power assistance with torque vectoring across the rear axle for greater chassis control; and Traction mode enables optimal grip at take-off and in slippery conditions.

Inside and out, the Saab PhoeniX Concept showcases new design directions and technologies that will be part of forthcoming Saab products.