The Audi R8 is the brand’s sporty spearhead – on the road and on the race track. Its DNA is endowed with know-how earned from the many success stories at Audi Sport, particularly in endurance racing. “In 2016, we had the most successful year in the history of Audi Sport customer racing, our customer sport department,” said Stephan Winkelmann, CEO of Audi Sport GmbH. “With the R8 LMS we brought home 24 titles, scored 85 race victories and tallied up over 100 other podium finishes.”

And now the Audi Sport Edition is bringing more motorsport emotion to the production car realm with its expressive interplay of the colors silver, red and black, and exclusive interior equipment. In addition to floret silver, matt or gloss, the selection of paint finishes includes mythos black and ibis white. Regardless of what body color the customer chooses, the sideblades and exterior mirrors in brilliant red produce a striking contrast and are just one of the visual highlights. Accenting the sophisticated exterior are the front spoiler, Singleframe grille and diffuser insert, all in titanium black – yet another facet of the car’s distinctive character. At the rear, trapezoidal tailpipe trims in gloss black enhance the dynamic effect of the car’s design.

Audi Sport GmbH has equipped the special edition with 20-inch wheels of forged aluminum, with 245/30 front tires and 305/30 rear tires. The rims in an eye-catching 10-spoke Y design feature a gloss anthracite black paint finish and stand out with their silver edges. And there’s a very special touch: The rim flanges in a gloss turned finish are embellished by an Audi Sport logo. On the R8 V10 version, a high-gloss red finish lend the calipers of the powerful steel brakes a blazing look. And on the version with the plus engine variant, the ceramic brake discs are fitted with calipers in an anthracite-colored finish.

The interior welcomes driver and passenger with illuminated door sill trims. Their aluminum inlays bear the Audi Sport label complete with the red rhombus, and the model’s exclusiveness is indicated by the inscription “1/200”. The color palette of the interior harmonizes perfectly with the car’s exterior. The door trims and sport seats are in fine Nappa leather, with a color combination of black and express red. The seat backrests are embossed with the R8 emblem – an exclusive design element for the special edition model. Contrasting stitching in dark silver accents the steering wheel, door trims and seats.

The car’s sporty character is underscored by decorative inlays in a gloss carbon finish. The inlays are used at places including the surrounding frame of the Audi virtual cockpit, on the air vents and on the center console. The flat-bottomed, leather-covered performance steering wheel in three-spoke design is standard on the special edition model. It is emblazoned with an R8 emblem, and the black leather-covered rim of the wheel has an express red stripe at the 12 o’clock position, in keeping with the car’s motorsport heritage. The marker is a visual aid to help drivers keep the steering wheel centered when challenging their driving skills.

The famously powerful V10 mid-engine starts up by means of one satellite control button, and the driver uses a second button to adjust the settings of Audi drive select, the dynamic handling system. Two additional buttons and a rotary switch are used to control the exhaust flaps and the performance mode, which includes three more driving programs – dry, wet and snow. They adapt the handling even more precisely to the respective road conditions.

The Audi Sport Edition of the R8 Coupé will be built in a limited production run of 200 cars, and orders can be placed worldwide beginning in May 2017. In Germany prices of the model powered by the V10 variant with 397 kW (540 hp) start at EUR 181,900. And prices of the car with the V10 plus variant, which delivers 449 kW (610 hp) of power, start at EUR 205,800. Deliveries will begin in late summer of 2017.

“Super Series is the core of the McLaren business and personifies the blend of extreme performance, crafted luxury and unparalleled driver involvement that is the McLaren heartland. This is the first time we have replaced a product family and the new 720S is absolutely true to McLaren’s pioneering spirit in being a revolutionary leap forwards, both for our brand and the supercar segment.”
Mike Flewitt, Chief Executive Officer, McLaren Automotive

The unveiling of McLaren’s new supercar confirms both the 720S name and 720PS horsepower of the first model in the second-generation McLaren Super Series, details which have been teased online in recent months. The Surrey, England-based manufacturer of luxury, high-performance sports and supercars, has issued a series of six press releases since January, each accompanied by an image or film containing a numerical reference – and it can now be revealed that 1 x 2 x 3 x 4 x 5 x 6 equals 720…

The new 720S is lighter, faster and even more dynamically capable than its McLaren 650S predecessor, with unparalleled levels of interior space and sophistication and a breadth and depth of abilities that will engage and exhilarate the driver.  One glance at the 720S identifies it as a bold reinterpretation of McLaren’s design language; rooted in aerodynamic principles, the beautiful form has nothing superfluous about it: immediately and undeniably a McLaren, the new 720S is arguably the most distinctive and remarkable McLaren yet.

One of the key points in the design of the new Super Series is the absence of radiator intakes on the side of the car; this function is carried out instead by the unique ‘double-skin’ aerodynamic form of the dihedral doors, which channel air to the high-temperature radiators that cool the mid-mounted engine.

The new M480T engine powering the 720S continues the lineage of McLaren’s multiple-award-winning, twin-turbocharged V8 engine series. The 4.0-litre engine, which has 41 percent new part content compared to the 3.8-litre engine that continues to feature in the McLaren Sports Series, generates a maximum of 720PS and 770Nm of torque.

Performance is truly astonishing: standstill to 100km/h (62mph) takes less than 3 seconds and just 5 seconds later the car has passed the 200km/h (124mph) mark on its way to a maximum speed of 341km/h (212mph). Braking is equally impressive, the new 720S coming to a halt from 200km/h (124mph) in just 4.6 seconds, covering 117m. Additionally, the extreme efficiency of the engine also goes beyond mere velocity: the new McLaren 720S delivers 10.7 litres/km combined fuel economy and CO₂ emissions of just 249g/km in the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC).

McLaren’s expertise in carbon fibre structures – every road car built by the British manufacturer since the McLaren F1 in 1993 has had a carbon fibre chassis – underpins the construction of the new 720S; the architecture of the car is based around a new carbon fibre ‘tub’ and upper structure, the McLaren Monocage II. This technology delivers extreme strength and rigidity in a lightweight structure and is the ideal base for any supercar. A range of aluminium alloys are also used extensively in the chassis, as well as for some body panels.

A new generation of McLaren’s Proactive Chassis Control, new suspension and the established excellence of McLaren’s power-assisted, electro-hydraulic steering, all combine to deliver huge reserves of grip, balance and performance and an unmatched breadth of dynamic capabilities.

The hand-crafted luxury inherent in a McLaren, with the authenticity of fine leathers and machined aluminium, is complemented by the revolutionary new McLaren Driver Interface, which comprises a Folding Driver Display and Central Infotainment Screen. In combination with a cabin environment that establishes new standards in the supercar segment for visibility, space and comfort, these attributes give the new McLaren 720S an incredible degree of usability and validate its claim to be the most complete supercar on sale today.

Specializing in battery technology, research, innovation and design, Vanda Electrics is one of Singapore’s leading e-mobility companies. Its revolutionary strategy is to develop a range of global electric products that capitalize on the trend towards zero emission mobility and focus on three key segments: luxury, consumer and industrial.

With the launch of a fast-charging zero emission electric light commercial vehicle (http://vandaelectrics.com/pro-anttruck/) and electric mini scooter (http://motochimp.com) taking place later this year, the company has chosen the 2017 Geneva Motor Show to unveil its most exciting model yet, a high performance halo product that will sit in the luxury sector.

A project that has resided within the design team for many years, Dendrobium is finally being realised thanks to the rapid advancements in electrification technology, which allows headturning styling to be combined with high performance, compact e-powertrains.

Vanda Electrics has also engaged a small number of key partners to develop the Dendrobium concept car.

Technical partner is Williams Advanced Engineering, the technology and engineering services division of the Williams Group. The division specialises in a number of core areas that are highly relevant to Dendrobium, including aerodynamics, lightweight structures, vehicle integration and, of course, electrification. Williams Advanced Engineering has taken the project from the design stage to dynamic concept car.

Innovative, dramatic design
Designed by Vanda’s in-house team, Dendrobium’s remarkable shape incorporates an automatic roof and doors, which open in a synchronized manner, resembling a fully-opened dendrobium flower, a genus of orchids native to Singapore.

This unique feature is not just for show either – it also improves access to the cockpit, making ingress and egress easier than other hypercars. The tear drop shape that forms around the cockpit and ends in the tail – where the plug-in port is located, just behind a panel above the charging light, which shows the status of the car’s battery – is a design feature that has remained a key part of Dendrobium from the initial sketches.

Other highlights of Dendrobium’s exterior are the aerodynamic floor, rear double diffuser and front splitter. At the back, the rear light bar elegantly floats over the tail of the car, and throughout the design there is pure, motorsport-inspired functionality, such as the exposed double wishbone front and rear suspension. That motorsport theme is continued in the materials used. In order to meet its target weight of 1,750kg, Dendrobium features a composite monocoque chassis, carbonfibre body panels, carbon ceramic brake discs and lightweight alloy calipers inside 20-inch front and 21-inch rear alloy wheels, wrapped in Michelin high performance tyres.

Driver-focused interior
Carbonfibre is also used extensively in the interior, fitting with Dendrobium’s minimalist but functional design brief. Step inside and it is immediately obvious that the driver is the absolute centre of attention. He or she enjoys a bright red body-hugging sports seat – which contrasts dramatically with the predominately black interior. Both driver and passenger seats feature stitching and motifs inspired by muscle fibres.

The interior of the Dendrobium concept has been trimmed using leather from Scotland’s Bridge of Weir Leather Company, which sources the best hides from the best heritage breeds and has adopted the very latest technology. The result is the lowest carbon tannery and leather product in the world – the perfect material for a zero emission halo model.

Sitting in the driver’s eye line is a digital dashboard flanked by two rear-view displays, which take feeds from wing-mounted cameras. All of the dashboard buttons are hexagon-shaped: a recurring design theme throughout Dendrobium, replicated in the air vents, front grille and headlight bezels.

Hyper-mobility: target in excess of 200mph
Although strictly a concept car at this stage, performance targets for Dendrobium are a top speed in excess of 200mph and 0-60mph in 2.7 seconds. The project will feature the latest lithium-ion battery and electric powertrain technology calling on Vanda Electrics’ own expertise and, of course, that of technical partner Williams Advanced Engineering.

The Grove-based organization is an electrification world-leader; it is currently the sole battery supplier to Formula E and an electric motor and e-powertrain integration expert thanks to its pioneering F1-bred hybrid systems and its key role in the rapid development of the Jaguar C-X75 supercar.

Should Dendrobium go into production, a layout featuring two inboard-mounted electric motors per axle, with a single-speed gearbox and differential at the front and a multi-speed gearbox and differential at the rear, is envisaged. If Vanda Electrics receives enough positive interest at the Geneva Motor Show, the first model is expected to hit the road by 2020.

Larissa Tan, Vanda Electrics CEO said: “Dendrobium is the culmination of a dream. Our design team has had sketches of an electric hypercar on the drawing board since the mid-90s, but that vision was many years ahead of its time. As electric technology has advanced, we have been able to revisit this vision and now, as we launch our revolutionary global e-mobility strategy, the timing is finally right for us to take the wraps off a halo model.

“Dendrobium is our interpretation and expression of what pushes the boundaries in the development of an electric performance car. We have engaged some expert partners to help us achieve this such as Williams Advanced Engineering. With its skills in electrification, aerodynamics, lightweight structures, vehicle dynamics and integration – and even lowvolume build – we could not think of a more appropriate partner.

“We are looking forward to seeing the world’s reaction to Dendrobium. This electric hypercar may just be a concept for now, but we have every intention of putting it into production. It sits at the top of our range and the production version will be a fitting showcase for the best in design and e-technology.”

The name continues a fine tradition of Aston Martin ‘V’ cars. This began back in 1951 with Vantage, which was selected as a name to distinguish high performance variants of the then current model, the DB2. Boasting 125bhp versus 105bhp for the standard engine, the Vantage represented a significant increase in performance and desirability. The first time the Vantage badge appeared was on the side of the DB5.

It remained a name reserved for the most potent model derivatives until 2005, when the Vantage became a model line in its own right. Twelve years later the acclaimed family of V8 and V12-powered models has made the Vantage the most successful model in Aston Martin’s history.

Virage, Vanquish and the Aston Martin Vulcan – Aston Martin’s very own God of fire – are more recent ‘V’ cars to continue this lineage. Now, seven decades after the Vantage name started it all, the Aston Martin Valkyrie propels this uniquely distinctive and lyrical family of model names to another level.

For Aston Martin’s Chief Creative Officer, Marek Reichman, Valkyrie perfectly captures the drama of what is not only the ultimate Aston Martin, but the ultimate expression of hypercar design, engineering and performance: “Aston Martin model names have deep meaning. They need to inspire and excite. To tell a story and enrich a narrative that stretches back some 104-years. The Aston Martin Valkyrie is an incredibly special car that demands an equally remarkable name; an uncompromising car that leaves nothing in reserve. The connotations of power and honour, of being chosen by the Gods are so evocative, and so pertinent to a car that only a fortunate few will ever experience.”  

While its name is rooted in ancient mythology, the Aston Martin Valkyrie is a pure expression of modern technology. By bringing together Aston Martin, Red Bull Advanced Technologies, project partner AF Racing and some of the world’s leading technology partners, the Aston Martin Valkyrie promises otherworldly performance befitting of its name.

“As well as delivering the outstanding driver involvement and enjoyment for which the brand is renowned, McLaren’s new supercar will also excel in everyday driving,” explained McLaren Automotive Chief Test Driver, Chris Goodwin. “The extreme performance and dynamic prowess of the second-generation Super Series, honed by testing at the limits and beyond, provides the perfect foundation for it to be the most complete supercar across the full range of use.” McLaren has released a short film showing the car during dynamic testing, driven by Chris Goodwin.

The exceptional braking capabilities of the second-generation Super Series were perfected during the most rigorous development programme of dynamic technologies ever undertaken by McLaren Automotive. Lighter, stiffer brake calipers, carbon-ceramic discs as standard and optimised brake pedal feel and modulation at the limit are key elements in delivering the incredible stopping power, with tyre performance also critical.

Working in close co-operation with Pirelli, McLaren engineers developed a new, bespoke Pirelli P Zero Corsa tyre for the second-generation Super Series that supports a six per cent improvement in mechanical grip compared to the McLaren 650S. The Corsa tyre is one of a range of Pirelli tyres developed specifically for McLaren’s new supercar, all of which provide superb driver feedback as well as ensuring extreme levels of grip and braking performance.

Further details of the second-generation McLaren Super Series will be confirmed on March 7, when a full range of images will also be available.

Built to FIA GT specification, the 6-litre V8 Hussarya GT completed a successful year of testing throughout 2016 at the hands of Scottish racing legend Anthony Reid. The Arrinera Hussarya GT also became the first Polish supercar to take part in the Michelin Supercar Run at the annual Goodwood Festival of Speed in the September. The car will make its GT debut this year with both a factory team and customer cars planned.

The GT is powered by an LS7 V8 engine pushing out 500bhp and is mated to a six-speed Hewland sequential racing gearbox operated by paddle shifts. Its modular steel spaceframe chassis mirrors the structures of Hurricanes and Spitfires flown by Polish pilots during the allied air campaigns of World War II.  It also features bespoke pushrod suspension with Öhlins four-way adjustable dampers, Alcon brakes with 380mm discs and six-pot mono bloc calipers all round. Bosch racing ABS and traction control are standard equipment.

Created for gentleman drivers for ease of use, ease of maintenance and low running costs, the Hussarya GT inspires confidence in the driver, giving amateur drivers a shallower learning curve while simultaneously rewarding the skill of professional drivers. The car is also designed with two racing seats making the Hussarya ideal for instruction. Build slots are on sale for the car which is priced at US$229,000, with an obligatory spares package for an additional US$69,000.

Piotr R. Frankowski, Arrinera Racing’s CEO said: “We are very excited to have received the first orders for the Hussarya GT. This is a great start to 2017, following a busy year of development and track testing. There has been a lot of interest in this car since its launch, just one year ago.”

“The GT has true racing pedigree and offers competitive race performance with significantly lower running costs than its rivals on the GT grid. We are looking forward to its race debut in the near future.”

Technical specification

Engine:LS series V8,
Engine Power Output: Above 505hp
Transmission:6-speed Hewland LLS sequential with paddle shift
Brakes:Alcon brakes, with 380mm discs and 6-pot mono bloc calipers
Suspension:Bespoke pushrod system with Öhlins 4-way adjustable dampers
Aerodynamics:Honed in CFD analysis and real-world wind tunnel testing at MIRA
FIA Homologation:Built to FIA GT3 specification

It is expected to be the fastest ever road-legal car to lap the legendary Nürburgring Nordschleife, with a lap time anticipated to be nearly half a minute faster than the current production car record. The target that has been set is an astonishing six minutes and 30 seconds: within 20 seconds of the famous all-time Nordschleife record of six minutes and 11 seconds established by Stefan Bellof in 1983, and annihilating the present benchmark of six minutes and 57 seconds.

In this new, low-volume assembly facility at Multimatic in Markham, Ontario, Raj Nair, Ford executive vice president, global product development, and chief technical officer, marked today’s milestone by driving a Ford GT off the assembly line.

“When we kicked off 2016, we had two primary objectives for our Ford GT supercar – to excel at Le Mans, and to start deliveries before year-end,” says Nair. “We’ve achieved both.”

“For everyone involved in designing and developing this car, including all of our employees and suppliers, this is a moment to celebrate,” he adds. “The all-new Ford GT is a showcase of our strength in innovation and our commitment to delivering more for our customers – especially related to light-weight materials, aerodynamics and EcoBoost® engine technologies.”

Ford GT was unveiled at the North American International Auto Show in January 2015. Less than two years later, Ford Performance is now delivering the first cars to customers around the globe.

Additionally, the company unveiled its electric supercar, the NIO EP9, which has achieved a new lap record at the Nürburgring Nordschliefe. On October 12^th 2016, the EP9 lapped the 20.8km ‘Green Hell’ in 7m 05.12s, beating the previous EV lap record held, marking it out as the fastest electric car in the world. Additionally, on November 4^th, it smashed the EV record at Circuit Paul Ricard in France, recording a time of 1m 52.78s, eclipsing the previous record of 2m 40s.

With four high-performance inboard motors and four individual gearboxes,the EP9 delivers 1-MegaWatt of power, equivalent to 1,360PS. The EP9 accelerates from 0-200kph in 7.1 seconds and has a top speed of 313kph. With an interchangeable battery system, the EP9 is designed to be charged in 45 minutes and has a range of 427 kilometres.

The carbon cockpit and chassis embodies a new approach to performance vehicle design to handle the physical demands of a car with 3G cornering capabilities, with added structural solidity and aero efficiency. The EP9 is capable of achieving 24,000 Newtons of downforce at 240kph.

NextEV Founder and Chairman, William Li, said: “Today we launched our electric supercar that broke the record at the Nordschliefe. The NIO EP9 was born to push limits and is the first stage of automotive production for NIO. It is a statement of our vision and technical and manufacturing capabilities. It is a best-in-class product that showcases what is possible with electric vehicles. We believe that when the car ownership experience exceeds expectations, electric vehicles will become the natural choice for everyone, leading to a more sustainable tomorrow. And with that, our vision of a blue sky will come true.”

Bespoke hypercar SCG brand is best known for the SCG003C, a unique track car that took on the Nurburgring 24 Hours this year in addition to a number of other races in the VLN Series and DMV GTC, among others. The Italo-American brand is also developing a road car, the SCG003S, to be officially launched at the 2017 Geneva Motor Show.

Ideal Team Ventures Ltd, acquired former Gumpert Sportwagen Manufaktur GmbH in 2014 and has since restructured the company as Apollo Automobil Ltd and is reviving the brand as Apollo. The concept car ‘Arrow’ was unveiled during the 2016 Geneva Motor Show and received overwhelming worldwide coverage.

The first result of the collaboration is a radically redesigned body powered by a naturally-aspirated V12 track version, project name ‘Titan’, set to be unveiled in the Spring 2017 and will take part in the 2017 Goodwood Festival of Speed.

There will also be an Apollo Arrow ‘S’ – a road version powered by a twin-turbo V8.

Both models will utilise the chassis technology developed for the SCG003C which has proved its performance and reliability at the ultimate test bed of the Nurburgring but will be given the treatment of unmistakable Apollo style.

Italian manufacturer MAT – having engineered and built the SCG003C – is now working on the SCG003S and will develop the Apollo Arrow, providing its technical expertise in all areas of the creation of this beautiful hypercar.

The partnership will allow SCG and MAT to showcase their expertise and craftsmanship in bringing Apollo’s cars to life. SCG, MAT and Apollo all have the same passion and drive for excellence as they aim to create a unique Apollo GT car.

SCG’s founder Jim Glickenhaus commented: “I’m really excited to be working on this project with Apollo. The Arrow is a thing of beauty and we can definitely bring a lot of technical know how to the table from our successful experience of competing on the toughest races in motorsport.”

Apollo’s chairman Norman Choi added: “The SCG003C is a really impressive car and I’m looking forward to working with the team to develop our new Apollo Arrow and create something truly special.”

To commemorate these historic motorsport victories, Saleen has announced a new limited edition model, the Saleen S7 LM. Only 7 examples of this limited edition S7 will be produced and all will incorporate a unique livery, wheel, interior, and functional performance enhancements.

“True to our form, we are bringing back America’s only true supercar,” said Steve Saleen, President and CEO of Saleen Automotive, “We are celebrating our winning heritage and advancing the performance DNA that Saleen was built around.”

The Saleen S7 was initially unveiled in Monterey, Ca. Labeled as America’s Supercar, it is the most successful supercar model ever. The S7R race version has won at every major racetrack in the world, including Daytona, Sebring, Nurburgring, and the prestigious 24 Hours of LeMans. The street version has starred in several Hollywood blockbusters, including being driven by “God” in Bruce Almighty.

The new S7 LM supercar will be powered by a 7.0L twin-turbo engine rated at 1,000 horsepower and each one will be hand built at Saleen’s Corona, CA headquarters.

The additional production supports the decision by Ford Performance to race Ford GT in both IMSA and World Endurance Championship (WEC) series events for four years, extending through to the 2019 season.

“While we can’t build enough Ford GTs for everyone who has applied, we are going to produce additional vehicles in an effort to satisfy more of our most loyal Ford ambassadors,” says Dave Pericak, global director, Ford Performance. “We want to keep Ford GT exclusive, but at the same time we know how vital this customer is to our brand.”

Year three of production will support applicants who were placed on the waiting list; previously deferred applicants and those who missed the initial application window will be served by production year four. The application process for fourth-year production will reopen in early 2018. Those who already applied to own the car will only need to update their request.

“Ford GT has racing in its blood,” says Raj Nair, Ford executive vice president, product development, and chief technical officer. “The road car and race car will live on, side-by-side, for the next four years – providing ample opportunity to test and prove innovative new technologies both on and off the track.”

In Szczecin the Hussarya GT visited the cobblestone-paved terraces overlooking the Odra river, with their flowing corners and monumental buildings atop the hill providing an unusual venue for a race car photoshoot, then the car appeared at a park in Szczecin which boasts Poland’s largest population of plane trees. It looked positively awesome in the natural chiaroscuro environment. Then the Arrinera appeared in front of the Philharmonic in Szczecin, which in 2015 received the Mies van der Rohe prixe for the most beautiful building in Europe. Afterwards the car was transported to a secret location deep in Szczecin’s harbor, and later to the newly rebuilt bank of the river, remodeled for the Tall Ships Races.

In Wroclaw our car caused a considerable stir in the fabulous Old Town Square when we parked it in front of the 13th century town hall, and was constantly besieged by crowds of people, both Polish and foreign, anxious to take pictures of the sleek racer transplanted to the centre of the town which in 2016 is the European Culture Capital.

Finally, in Warsaw, the historical heritage evident in the Arrinera bloodline was emphasized by the photoshoot in Pilsudski Square, named after our political leader who was instrumental in bringing Poland back to the map of Europe in 1918. The square, which until World War II was dominated by the Saski Palace, is now a parade ground surrounding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, which is the only part of the original palace that has survived. The photoshoot ended with our car being driven around the square and around the imposing National Opera House which boasts the largest theater stage in Europe. The prototype returned to the UK for further testing and development.

Koenigsegg Automotive AB can confirm reports online that a Koenigsegg One:1 was involved in a crash during testing as part of Industry Pool at the Nurburgring on Monday, 18 July. The driver was taken to hospital as per standard procedures in such situations and was released the same afternoon.

Koenigsegg has participated in Industry Pool testing for a week in each of the last two months, working primarily on vehicle setups both for ongoing vehicle development and for an attempt at a Nurburgring lap record at some time in the future.

A Koenigsegg is an extreme performance car and must be tested accordingly. This is an inherently dangerous undertaking that must be conducted progressively and methodically, working point by point on all areas of our highly adjustable vehicles. Our primary concern is always driver safety and any testing is structured and conducted accordingly.

This incident is confirmation of just how difficult it is to drive at this level on the world’s ultimate proving ground. Obviously we are dismayed with this development but pleased that our safety systems worked as designed to protect our driver.

The product of a unique Innovation Partnership between the British luxury brand and eminent F1^TM team, this ambitious, uncompromising and wholly extraordinary collaboration combines the vision and skills of two world-leading brands to create a road car the like of which has never been seen before.

The three men charged with realising this shared vision are Adrian Newey, Red Bull Racing’s Chief Technical Officer and the world’s most successful F1^TM designer, Marek Reichman, Aston Martin EVP and Chief Creative Officer and David King, VP and Chief Special Operations Officer. Together they spearhead a formidable alliance. One that combines more than a hundred years of specialism – both with heritage, making some of the world’s most beautiful and charismatic GT cars, and with technological brilliance and relentless pursuit of speed and efficiency that has seen Red Bull Racing excel in the ferociously competitive world of Formula One.

Reichman and Newey are working closely on all aspects of the project, striving to ensure the AM-RB 001 is an unprecedented fusion of form and function: a car engineered to be entirely useable and enjoyable as a road car, but with the capability to perform like no road car before it on a race track. For those who crave an even more intensely focused driving experience, a track-only AM-RB 001 is also in development, the projected performance of which is in line with that of today’s LMP1 Le Mans sports prototypes.

Built around a lightweight carbon fibre structure, the AM-RB 001 boasts truly radical aerodynamics for unprecedented levels of downforce in a road-legal car. Thanks to the genius of Newey’s design much of this downforce is generated through underfloor aerodynamics, leaving Reichman free to craft a pure yet breathtaking dramatic form that elegantly expresses both the AM-RB 001’s cutting-edge dynamism and the unmistakable essence of Aston Martin.

Uncompromising in all respects, the AM-RB 001 is a bespoke machine from the tyres up. It will be built by David King and his team at Gaydon, in the purpose-built facility created for Aston Martin’s original hypercar, the One-77. More details of the AM-RB 001′s technical specification will be revealed in due course, but its heart is a new, mid-mounted, high-revving, naturally aspirated V12 engine with the potency to achieve a 1:1 power-to-weight ratio; 1 bhp per kilo of weight.

To cope with the extreme aerodynamic loadings at high speeds yet deliver the on-road usability and comfort levels that sit at the heart of the concept, the AM-RB 001’s suspension system will feature innovative technology and employ principles honed by Newey over his thirty year career. Likewise, the transmission is a clean-sheet design conceived by Newey and developed by Red Bull Advanced Technologies.

While boundary-pushing performance is clearly of paramount importance, so too is exceptional efficiency and packaging. Newey’s unrivalled knowledge has enabled the AM-RB 001 to be extremely light and compact, yet offer genuine comfort and space for driver and passenger and house a V12 engine.

Adrian Newey, Red Bull Racing’s Chief Technical Officer, says of the AM-RB 001 project: “I’ve long harboured the desire to design a road car. The formation of Red Bull Advanced Technologies brought me a step closer to realising that ambition, but I believed we should work with an automotive manufacturer. Aston Martin was at the top of my list. The synergy between Red Bull Racing and Aston Martin is clear. I knew Red Bull Racing had the ability to handle the pure performance aspects, but Aston Martin’s experience of making beautiful, fast and comfortable GT cars is of great benefit to the project. I’ve always been adamant that the AM-RB 001 should be a true road car that’s also capable of extreme performance on track, and this means it really has to be a car of two characters. That’s the secret we’re trying to put into this car – the technology that allows it to be docile and comfortable, but with immense outright capabilities.”

David King, Aston Martin’s VP and Chief Special Operations Officer, adds: “Working at Aston Martin means you get to be a part of some truly special projects, but the AM-RB 001 is a dream – a true once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Of course it’s a huge engineering challenge, too, but the game-changing objectives of this programme have a uniquely energising effect on everyone involved. We have world-class people and facilities at Gaydon. We’re all motivated to achieve great things and take Aston Martin to the absolute pinnacle of road car performance.”

Marek Reichman, Aston Martin’s Chief Creative Officer, says of the AM-RB 001: “Working so closely alongside Adrian and an organisation like Red Bull Racing is a fabulous experience. By definition the objectives we’ve set for the car ensures there has never been an Aston Martin – or any car, actually – quite like the AM-RB 001. The shared challenge has been finding that magical tipping point where we achieve the most efficient engineering solutions and the most beautiful styling solutions without any compromises. My personal challenge has been expressing the AM-RB 001’s extraordinary performance and the unique way in which it delivers that performance. Its style reflects its revolutionary nature, while possessing the form and beauty that makes it unmistakably an Aston Martin.”

Dr Andy Palmer, Aston Martin President and CEO, commented: “The AM-RB 001 is a truly remarkable project and something of which I’m extremely proud. To have Aston Martin working alongside Adrian Newey, Red Bull Racing and the invaluable assistance of project partner AF Racing AG is an extraordinary creative collaboration. One that unites the very best of road and race car thinking. As the project gathers pace its clear the end result will be a truly history-making hypercar that sets incredible new benchmarks for packaging, efficiency and performance and an achievement that elevates Aston Martin to the very highest level.” 

Christian Horner, Team Principal, Red Bull Racing said: “Red Bull Racing has always steered an innovative course in our ongoing development of a competitive Formula One car. The conception and modus operandi of Red Bull Technologies has been to apply our expertise to truly progressive projects and partnerships. Our relationship with Aston Martin and the realisation of the AM-RB 001 is pioneering and borne of our synergies and desire to break new ground. The AM-RB 001 is the inspirational product of this collaborative spirit.”

Continuing the on-going Innovation Partnership, the task of engineering the AM-RB 001 will be shared between Q by Aston Martin Advanced and Red Bull Advanced Technologies, with production taking place at Aston Martin’s Gaydon facility. Total volume will be between 99 and 150 road cars inclusive of all remaining prototypes and 25 track-only versions, with first deliveries commencing in 2018.

The “selection 24h”, being built in a limited production run of 24, is based on the Audi R8 Coupé V10 plus*. Its 5.2-liter V10 mid-engine develops 449 kW (610 hp) and accelerates the top model of the Audi R8 car line from 0 to 100 km/h (62.1 mph) in a mere 3.2 seconds, before advancing to a top speed of 330 km/h (205.1 mph). That makes the Audi R8 Coupé V10 plus both the fastest and most powerful production Audi of all time. A newly developed quattro drive distributes its power fully variably between both sets of wheels. The suspension, the aerodynamics configured to handle high downforces and the operating concept featuring the Audi virtual cockpit are all motorsport-inspired. That is because Audi developed the second generation of the R8 in parallel with the GT3 racing model R8 LMS. Close cooperation between race car engineers, motorsport specialists and developers has brought both models a significant boost in performance.

The dry weight of the Audi R8 Coupé V10 plus is 1,454 kilograms (3,205.5 lb); its body built using the multimaterial construction principle weighs a mere 200 kilograms (440.9 lb). The combination of aluminum and carbon fiber-reinforced polymers (CFRP) in the Audi Space Frame opens up entirely new dimensions with regard to weight, rigidity and crash behavior.

The technical package in the “selection 24h” special edition comprises dynamic steering, the adaptive damper control system Audi magnetic ride and Audi laser lighting. The tricolor paint finish consisting of Suzuka gray as the basic color, with mythos black and Misano red highlights, evokes the successful Audi R8 LMS.

The front spoiler, the exterior mirror housings, the engine compartment cover, the rear wing and the diffuser are made from gloss-finish carbon fiber. The same applies to the sideblades with matt-finish “R8 24h” logo. The tailpipes of the sport exhaust system feature black trims and the 20-inch forged aluminum wheels in 10-spoke Y design are painted gloss anthracite black. Inside, the limited-edition model offers full-leather upholstery and trim in the color rotor gray, with Alcantara headlining. The air vents and the extended inlays for the surround of the Audi virtual cockpit are made of gloss-finish CFRP. The latter also bear the matt-finish “R8 24h” logo. The illuminated door sill trims are also made of gloss-finish carbon. They display the serial numbers 1 to 24 for each of the limited-edition cars. As an exclusive feature of the limited edition, the entry lights on the doors project the Audi R8 logo onto the road surface. In future, every R8 customer will be able to personalize their car with a near-unlimited range of lettering and logos from the Audi exclusive offering.

The “selection 24h” special edition of the Audi R8 Coupé V10 plus is a homage to Audi’s remarkable achievements in endurance racing. In the Le Mans 24 Hours alone, the brand with the four rings has celebrated 13 overall wins in the past 15 years. The first five of these were clinched by the R8 sports prototype, which gave its name to the production sports model. The GT3 racing car Audi R8 LMS made its competition debut in 2009. It has since collected over 300 wins worldwide, including overall wins in 24-hour races on the Nürburgring, at Spa-Francorchamps and Zolder, and in Dubai. It also has a class victory in Daytona to its name. Last year, the new generation of the Audi R8 LMS made a dream debut and won its first 24-hour race on the Nürburgring at the very first attempt.

The Audi R8 “selection 24h” will be on view to the public for the first time at the AUDI AG presentation area in the paddock at the 24 Hours Nürburgring. Orders for the special model can be placed from May 10, 2016. It costs EUR 229,000 in Germany.

During 1998, only six examples of the original McLaren F1 were completed, and chassis #069 was the 60th model overall to be hand-built in Woking, England. It is presented in Carbon Black complimented by subtle detailing throughout, including a stealth finish to the 17-inch centre-locking magnesium wheels. The central driving seat is finished in black and contrasting red leather, with the dual passenger seats upholstered in Alcantara®.

McLaren F1 chassis #069 is UK registered with all UK taxes paid and offered for sale exclusively through McLaren Special Operations Heritage division with fitted luggage, complete Facom titanium lightweight tool kit and Facom tool box, all books and literature, including the correct numbered LM Edition of the ’Driving Ambition’ McLaren F1 book and limited edition McLaren F1 owner’s watch.

THE McLAREN F1 – A TRUE ICON

Designed by Gordon Murray and Peter Stevens, the McLaren F1 was developed and designed with a no compromise approach, world-beating Formula 1 expertise and technology, and the most driver-focused driving experience at its core. A true pioneering tour de force, the McLaren F1 was the first road car to feature a full carbon fibre chassis, and with a central driving position, engine bay lined with gold and famed McLaren obsession for technical excellence, is considered a true modern-day automotive icon. Powered by a bespoke naturally-aspirated mid-mounted 6.1-litre V12 engine producing 636PS (627bhp), it broke the record for fastest production roadcar with a top speed of 390.7km/h (242.8 mph) and, more than 20 years on, still holds the title of fastest naturally-aspirated production road car ever built.

McLAREN SPECIAL OPERATIONS

McLaren Special Operations grew out of the McLaren Customer Care programme, which dates back more than 20 years to the days of the McLaren F1 road car. The team looked after servicing and maintaining McLaren F1s for owners the world over. It also undertook personalisation when cars changed hands: new owners often wanted to put their own marks on their vehicles. Today, MSO continues to service, maintain and offer brokerage services for all examples of the McLaren F1.

Codenamed Project ‘AM-RB 001’, the new hypercar will represent the ultimate blend of cutting edge F1^TM technology with Aston Martin’s signature sports car design. The combined talents of Newey, widely noted as the most successful Formula One designer of all time, and Reichman, Aston Martin’s design chief since 2005, are set to produce the ultimate hypercar.

Combining the strongest elements of Red Bull Racing, Red Bull Advanced Technologies and Aston Martin, this new Innovation Partnership unites the world’s best aerodynamicists, composite experts and manufacturing masters. All the parties offer different elite capabilities and the combination of all of those skills, ensuring that Project ‘AM-RB 001’ promises to be an exciting prospect for customers and enthusiasts around the world.

Aston Martin CEO Dr Andy Palmer said: “Formula One offers the ultimate global stage to build wider awareness of the Aston Martin brand. However, this partnership will deliver even more than that when the hypercar that Aston Martin and Adrian Newey are in the process of developing hits the road.

“Between Q by Aston Martin Advanced, Red Bull Advanced Technologies and project partner AF Racing AG, we are going to create a car that will excite and stir the imaginations of the car designers of the future and a global audience of sports car enthusiasts.

“These are exciting times for Aston Martin and arriving hot on the heels of our DB11 launch earlier this month, this new partnership underlines that our brand really is racing again.”

Red Bull Racing Team Principal Christian Horner said of the new partnership: “This is a very exciting project for everyone at Red Bull Racing. Through this Innovation Partnership the iconic Aston Martin logo will return to grand prix racing for the first time since 1960, and Red Bull Advanced Technologies, led by Adrian, will be harnessing our Formula One DNA to produce the ultimate of all road cars. It’s an incredible project which also realises a dream and vision long held by Adrian to design a road car. We are very much looking forward to what I’m certain will be a successful partnership.”

As the designer of cars such as the Aston Martin DB11 – which was revealed earlier this month at the Geneva International Motor Show – the Aston Martin Vulcan and the One-77, Marek Reichman holds the key to the unmistakeable design language of the modern era of Aston Martins.

“We are in the process of developing a hypercar that combines the latest in aerodynamics from F1^TM and the stunning design language of an Aston Martin sports car,” said Reichman. “The opportunity to collaborate with Adrian (Newey) and Red Bull Advanced Technologies will be a fascinating experience for everyone involved. Unconstrained by F1^TM regulations, we have a unique chance to create a car in its most efficient form that will represent the ultimate fusion of art and technology.”

Having an illustrious Formula One career spanning nearly 30 years, and as the designer of ten World Championship winning Formula One cars, the partnership represents a new challenge for Red Bull Racing’s Adrian Newey.

“From the age of six I have had two goals in life – to be involved in the design of racing cars, and to be involved in the design of a super car.” Newey commented. “Whilst the former ambition went on to form my career to date, the latter has always bubbled away, resulting in countless sketches and doodles over the years.

“The opportunity to now develop and realise those ideas whilst working with Marek and his colleagues from Aston Martin is tremendously exciting.  It allows us to translate the technology we have developed in F1^TM into a new arena.”

The Aston Martin brand was borne out of the racing exploits of Lionel Martin – one of the founding partners of the British marque over 103 years ago – and the company made its international motor racing debut at the 1922 French Grand Prix. While motorsport has always remained integral to the brand’s DNA, the most famous moment in Aston Martin’s significant motorsport history is the 1959 outright win at the Le Mans 24 Hours for Roy Salvadori and Carroll Shelby in the Aston Martin DBR1. The modern Aston Martin Racing team, formed in 2005 has taken three class wins at Le Mans and will return to Circuit de la Sarthe again this June.

To celebrate the partnership between Aston Martin, Red Bull Racing and Red Bull Advanced Technologies, the RB12s will carry the iconic Aston Martin wings logo throughout the 2016 season, making their debut at this weekend’s Australian Grand Prix at Albert Park in Melbourne.

It has developed a Turbine-Recharging Electric Vehicle (TREV) system, an all-new patent-protected series hybrid powertrain technology comprising a turbine-generator. TREV combines extensive experience of aviation and electric vehicle technologies with several proprietary technical innovations to deliver unprecedented levels of efficiency and performance, and ultra-low environmental impact.

TREV is a range extender system that uses a micro-turbine to generate electricity that charges a battery pack. The battery powers the motors that drive the wheels. Newly developed battery management technologies enable superior charging efficiency. The high efficiency of the TREV range extender results in a requirement for fewer batteries, saving weight and space.

Techrules is showcasing its ground breaking technology at the 2016 Geneva International Motor Show in a plug-in hybrid range extender TREV concept that represents the first step towards production of China’s first supercar. A development prototype started testing last month (February 2016) at the world-famous Silverstone race circuit in the UK.

Producing peak power of 768 kW (1,030 bhp / 1,044 PS), initial projections indicate blistering performance (0 – 100 km/h in 2.5 seconds; 350 km/h restricted top speed) and a huge range (over 2,000 km). Under plug-in operation, it achieves fuel consumption of just 0.18 l/100 km (1,569 mpg).

Techrules plans to begin series production of TREV technology in a low volume supercar of its own design within a couple of years. It then plans to begin production of higher volume city cars a few years later.

William Jin, the founder and CEO of Techrules, said: “The TREV system is a perfect combination of micro turbine and electric vehicle technologies. It is highly efficient, produces very low emissions and provides an optimal charging solution for electric vehicles.  

“We believe it may redefine how the next generation of electric vehicles is powered.”

FURTHER DETAILS

Turbine-recharging electric vehicle (TREV): a revolutionary range extender technology for next generation EVs

TREV is an all-new proprietary, patent protected series hybrid powertrain system. It comprises a micro turbine generator that is inspired by technology commonly used in the global aviation industry and large-scale power generation industries. The turbine drives a generator which charges a battery. This in turn, provides electricity to drive the traction motors. Unlike many previously developed turbine powertrain systems, there is no direct electrical feed from the generator to the electric motors: the TREV system is purely a series hybrid range extender system.

Air drawn into the micro turbine is passed through a heat exchanger where heat from the exhaust air is transferred to the cold intake air after it has been compressed. Ignition of the compressed and heated fuel-air mixture generates enormous energy which is channelled to at very high speeds to turn the turbine vanes. As this hot exhaust gas is expelled, it passes through the heat exchanger to ensure the heat energy is recuperated and transferred to cold intake air.

Techrules Chief Technology Officer, Matthew Jin, explains: “In the conventional cars that dominated the 20th century, the combustion engine that converts a fuel’s chemical energy into a useful mechanical energy is also the driving engine that turns the wheels.

“Because turbines have always been a very inefficient way to convert chemical energy into useful wheel turning mechanical energy, only a few have tried to use a turbine in the powertrain system, and none have ever succeeded commercially.

“But, with electric vehicles, an electric motor is used to drive the wheels, which effectively frees the combustion engine to exclusively convert chemical energy into mechanical energy and finally into electric energy. This is a major breakthrough, making it possible for us to use the highly efficient turbine engine as a superb range extender on our vehicles.”

Micro turbines are significantly more efficient than piston engines in range extender applications, because significantly less energy is sacrificed in frictional losses, meaning more of the fuel’s chemical energy is harnessed.

The turbine shaft powers a generator that produces electricity to charge the battery cells. In Techrules’ TREV configuration, the turbine and the generator share the same shaft and rotate at the same speed: over 96,000 revolutions per minute.

The total weight of the TREV range extender system (micro-turbine, inverters, fuel pumps, air pumps, and generator, but excluding batteries and motors) is approximately 100 kg.

TREV system features proprietary innovative technologies for unprecedented levels of efficiency

The TREV system incorporates several new technologies that make it approximately 50 per cent more efficient thanrange extender systems using petrol engines, which dramatically increases the viability of its commercial series production.

The high rotational speeds that the shaft requires in order to draw in the required volume of air means that achieving low friction is paramount to the efficiency of the TREV system.

Techrules employs air bearing technology – a high pressure feed of compressed air – instead of a traditional oil lubricant film to separate the shaft from the bearing. This results in fewer frictional energy losses, since it eliminates parasitic losses of a mechanical bearing. The use of an air bearing system is not unique, but how Techrules uses the air bearing involves genuine world-first innovations.

Of particular note is that the air bearing is also supported by a magnetic field that allows for precise adjustment of the high speed shaft. Both bearing solutions work together to maintain exceptional stability. The magnetic bearing allowsa far greater clearance between the shaft and its wall lining, which delivers significant advantages for the long-term durability of the system.

This is an especially important consideration in automotive applications of turbine systems because – unlike in stable power generation conditions – the entire assembly must be able to be capable of withstanding volatile operating conditions that result from, for example, vertical shocks from uneven road surfaces and lateral forces in cornering. Techrules’ hybrid bearing system is also more economic to produce, because the built-in extra clearance space reduces the extreme tolerances usually required.

In addition, a new design of internal foil – an intrinsic component within an air bearing – is used for the bearing liner that supports the air pressure and flow. It is made of a new compound material that gives it superior durability. Of equal importance is that the new foil enables the mass production of the bearing liner at the required production tolerances to be achieved at a high volume scale at low cost.

Techrules has also introduced a new and innovative heat exchanger design that is more thermally efficient than conventional designs. A new material has been introduced in the hybrid heat exchanger which greatly increases the efficiency of heat recuperation from the exhaust gases.

The turbine – rotating at 96,000 revolutions per minute – produces 36 kW. Of this output, 30 kW powers the generator, with 6 kW directly powering auxiliary equipment such as the inverters. The 30 kW electrical output from the generator is used to charge the battery pack.

Smart battery management with new charge balancing strategy

The TREV system employs an innovative smart battery management system that optimises the efficiency of battery charging and power balancing between battery cells.

In a conventional lithium-ion battery management system, to avoid cells being damaged by overcharging, the cells – which each charge at a slightly different rate – must be balanced as they charge. This balancing is conventionally achieved by actively discharging the cells that are charging more quickly in order to enable the other cells to ‘catch up’. This process sees a proportion of energy wasted during the charging process and increases the time required to charge all cells fully.

To address the shortcomings with this standard industry practice, Techrules has introduced an innovative new charge balancing strategy. The smart battery balancing system harnesses the ‘excess’ voltage in cells that are charging more quickly, sharing their charge with slower-charging neighbouring cells to achieve the required balance. As a result, the entire pack charges more quickly, and there is no energy wasted in actively discharging the best-performing cells.

The TREV system uses readily available cylindrical 18650 Lithium-Manganese-Oxide battery cells. Techrules is focusing its capabilities on the efficiency of the battery management rather than the battery chemistry itself. Its insight and smart battery management system will be applicable to any future, higher capacity battery technology.

Unlike most EV development programmes, because the TREV system incorporates a series hybrid range extender, Techrules is prioritising power density – the capability of the batteries to deliver peak power – ahead of energy density – the capability of the batteries to hold maximum energy

TREV’s advanced smart battery management system optimises the efficiency of battery charging, reducing the time to charge batteries and reducing wasted energy.

Reduced whole-life environmental impact

TREV technology lowers the whole-life environmental impact of EVs by addressing or avoiding several major shortcomings of current technology.

TREV is capable of delivering an unprecedented range for a series hybrid supercar.

Projections, based on initial testing, indicate that the range of a future production supercar under battery power alone will be up to 150 km. Where charging points are unavailable TREV technology can recharge batteries anywhere, either while underway or when parked – eliminating range anxiety. It is envisioned that this parked recharging process could be completed unsupervised, overnight for example.

Maximum range – based on the battery configuration in the concept supercar presented at Geneva – is projected to be over 2,000 km from 80 litres of aviation kerosene (in urban driving conditions), or a fuel with equivalent calorific value.

Another fundamental challenge to the feasibility of mass adoption of EVs in several markets is the massive draw on the electricity grid that would be impossible to meet within the current grid capacity. If the Chinese market, for example, adopted plug-in EVs, the result would be a massive increase in pollution from coal-fired power stations. And many markets in the western world, too, are precariously close to the limit of the electricity generation capacities of their power generation infrastructures. These markets would not be able to sustain a widespread adoption of plug-in EVs.

With a common core architecture, the TREV system can be tailored to run on one of a variety of fuels. This means that the configuration of the TREV system can be matched to the fuel which is already prevalent in a specific market with a comprehensive supply and distribution infrastructure. As a result, adoption of the TREV system by the fuel supply industry, vehicle manufacturers and consumers requires no major investment in new networks – as with plug-in EVs or hydrogen fuel cells. The TREV system’s turbine has been tested in various guises, with alternative versions running natural gas, biogas, diesel, gasoline and aviation kerosene.

Since the significant uptake of EVs is dependent on the availability of charging point networks, which require major investments in new infrastructure, harnessing the existing fuel distribution infrastructures reduces the absolute reliance on these networks.

The TREV system delivers very high efficiency and very low emissions, and is a sealed-for-life powertrain solution which requires almost zero maintenance throughout the ownership cycle. The only service item is the air intake filter.

Concept is a vision of future production TREV supercar

Techrules is showcasing its TREV technology at the 2016 Geneva International Motor Show in a two-seater all-wheel drive concept supercar. The turbine generator is carried behind the passenger cabin and in front of the rear wheels, making the concept a ‘mid-engined’ electric vehicle.

It is presented in two designs, the AT96 and GT96. These designs – each offering an alternative configuration of the TREV system – are two variations of a vision of how turbine-recharging supercars might look when the technology enters production in China’s first supercar.

‘AT’ refers to ‘Aviation Turbine’, indicative that the turbine is configured to run on a liquid fuel such as aviation kerosene, diesel and gasoline. The AT96 is a vision of a track-focused version of the supercar and features management large rear wing, which provides both straight-line stability as well as downforce to aid high speed cornering.

The GT96 – for gas turbine – is designed to run on a gaseous fuel such as biogas and natural gas and is styled as a road-going hypercar.

The supercar also incorporates plug-in charging capability for markets where public or residential off-street parking charging networks – ideally powered by renewable energy sources – are in place.

A first supercar development prototype – based on the AT96 aviation turbine configuration – has been produced by Techrules’ specialist vehicle engineering partners in Italy and the UK. Initial testing began in February 2016 at the iconic Silverstone race circuit in the UK.

The range of the supercar concept on plug-in battery power alone is projected to be up to150 km, with a total range of over 2,000 km from 80 litres of aviation kerosene – or a fuel with the equivalent calorific value – with the TREV range extender deployed.

The combined peak output of the motors is 768 kW (1,030 bhp / 1,044 PS) and maximum torque at the wheels is projected to exceed 8,600 Nm (6,300 lb ft). With such power available with such brutal immediacy, the Techrules supercar concept boasts performance to rival today’s hypercars: 0 – 100 km/h in 2.5 seconds; top speed electronically restricted to 350 km/h.

Fuel consumption is projected to be just 0.18 l/100km. With a full charge provided solely by the TREV system, fuel consumption is expected to be approximately 4.8 l/100 km.

The kerb weight of the development vehicle is currently 1,380 kg. The target for the future production supercar is a sub-1,000 kg dry weight.

At the heart of the concept is a carbon-fibre monocoque to provide exceptional torsional rigidity and passenger safety. The body structure is also lightweight carbon fibre, including the dihedral doors.

The rear subframe carries the primary range extender components, including the micro turbine generator and direct ancillary systems, as well as the cooling systems for the electric traction motors and battery pack, and the rear motors and inverters.

Under the carbon-fibre body, a longitudinal T-shaped battery back runs down a central spine of the car – providing the same appearance in the passenger cabin as a transmission tunnel would in a front-engine, rear wheel drive car. The battery pack is liquid cooled to maintain an optimal operating temperature for the cells.

The battery pack comprises 2,376 individual 18650 cylindrical cells that use the ultra-safe Lithium-Manganese-Oxide chemistry (LiMn) chemistry with a capacity of 20 kWh usable and with a voltage of 720 V. Thanks to its smart battery management system, the battery pack can be charged by the turbine generator in approximately 40 minutes.

The supercar concept is driven by six electric traction motors, each weighing 13 kg and each one of which is coupled to its own dedicated inverter. Each front wheel is driven by a single motor, while each rear wheel is driven by a pair of motors.

The primary advantage of using two smaller motors instead of a single larger motor for each rear wheel is packaging efficiency and simpler mounting to the monocoque.

This six-motor layout with independent power feeding each wheel provides an ideal configuration for torque vectoring which is managed by an electronic control unit. Four-way torque vectoring guarantees maximum cornering stability at high speed and eliminates the requirement for complex and heavy mechanical differentials.

With such power and speed available from the accelerator pedal, so is there due consideration for high performance stopping power. Rapid retardation is achieved with 405 mm ventilated discs with six-piston calipers at the front, and 380 mm ventilated discs with four-piston calipers at the rear.

The current plan is for a TREV-powered supercar to be produced and sold in low volumes within the next few years. The low volumes will help Techrules perfect the production process of the TREV system and learn from its performance in real world conditions as it further develops the system for higher volume production.

Introducing TREV technology in its own supercar will also allow Techrules to demonstrate its credentials as an environmentally-friendly technology that can deliver exceptional dynamic performance. As it evolves quickly from an automotive research and development business into a car manufacturer, Techrules aims to lead a symbolic shift by the Chinese car industry towards world-class automotive quality and performance standards.

Following its launch with low volume supercars, Techrules’ will then develop its capabilities to realise its next ambition: the development of the technology for high volume applications including sub-compact and compact (B- and C-segment) cars, to be introduced to the market a few years later.

Techrules – a new company heralding a new dawn for the automobile

Techrules is a Beijing-based automotive research company focused on developing groundbreaking powertrain technology and fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly vehicles.

Its founders believe that future cars should be more efficient, more environmentally-friendly, and with better user experience than what is available on the market today. To achieve this, vehicles need to minimize whole-life well-to-wheel emissions that piston engine and plug-in EVs are failing to make significant progress with.

Techrules is a subsidiary of Txr-S, a research and development company which has other subsidiaries operating in the fields of new materials development, biogas production and aerospace.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

TECHRULES AT96 / GT96 CONCEPT SUPERCAR

Performance (all projections based on initial testing of concept supercar development vehicle)

Power output:                          768 kW (1,030 bhp / 1,044 PS)
Torque at the wheels:
Front:                                       2,880 Nm (2124 lb ft)
Rear:                                       5,760 Nm (4248 lb ft)
Total:                                       8,640 Nm (6372 lb ft)
Acceleration (0-100 km/h):     2.5 seconds
Max speed:                             350 km/h
Fuel consumption:                  0.18 l/100km

Transmission
Number of forward gears:      1

Battery pack
Voltage:                                   720V
Battery type:                           Lithium-Manganese-Oxide
Capacity:                                 20 kWh usable
Thermal management:           Liquid cooling

Battery and thermal management systems with several layers of redundant safety and protection systems.

Chassis
Construction:                           Carbon-fibre monocoque
Front suspension:                    Double wishbone
Rear suspension:                    Double wishbones
Wheel / tyre size front:            9.5Jx20 / 265/35 R20
Wheel / tyre size rear:             11Jx20 / 325/30 R20 

Dimensions
Length:                                    4,648 mm
Width:                                     2,034 mm
Height:                                     1,140 mm
Wheelbase:                             2,655 mm
Track front / rear                     1,740 mm / 1,653 mm
Dry weight                               1,380 kg

Brakes
Front:  Ventilated discs Ø 405 mm, 34 mm wide, with six-piston calipers
Rear:   Ventilated discs Ø 380 mm, 28 mm wide, with four-piston calipers

Steering
Rack and pinion electrically power assisted steering.

Safety systems
ABS
Torque vectoring with stability function
Safety disconnect systems
Multiple ECU architecture for monitoring of safety-relevant electronic systems

The GTC4Lusso’s name references several illustrious predecessors, not least the 330 GTC or its 2+2 sister model, the 330 GT, as well as the 250 GT Berlinetta Lusso, which married extreme performance with stylish design and sophisticated materials and craftsmanship.

The GTC4Lusso sports the latest evolution of the naturally-aspirated Ferrari GT V12 that melds incredible power with efficiency and provides a soundtrack which is thrilling in performance driving, yet discreet and harmonious in normal touring conditions.

As is the case with all Ferraris, the GTC4Lusso introduces a slew of technological innovations, notably the new Ferrari-patented 4RM-S which guarantees exceptional handling even on low-grip surfaces and superb stability and responsiveness in all conditions.

The GTC4Lusso’s aerodynamic development introduced new solutions, too, including a slotted diffuser and a rear spoiler integrated with the hatch, all focused on reducing drag and improving aerodynamic efficiency.

As a result, the GTC4Lusso exudes elegance and exclusivity, its unprecedented forms underscoring its most dynamic traits in an effortless marriage of sportiness and signature Grand Tourer traits.

The sophisticated and refined cabin is designed wholly around its occupants. Its Dual Cockpit concept, in fact, was crafted to enhance the shared driving experience for all passengers. Maximum attention was paid to improving in-car comfort, not least in the form of a new concept for the climate control and a new navigation and media system.

ENGINE

Intense research and development has boosted the 6,262 cc V12’s maximum power output to 690 cv, making the GTC4Lusso the most powerful car in its segment. Both its 2.6 kg/cv weight-to-power-ratio and its 13.5:1 compression ratio set new records for the category, too. Underlining the strong links between Ferrari’s GT engine division the racing world,  the V12 revs to a red line at a class-leading 8,250 rpm.

Maximum torque is 697 Nm at 5,750 rpm with 80% already available at just 1,750 rpm for superb responsiveness even at low revs. This makes the GTC4Lusso incredibly versatile: it is as equally at home in sports car mode as it is in more GT-type contexts, such as city centres or on long journeys.

In fact the performance figures are those of a true thoroughbred sports car, with a maximum speed of 335 km/h and acceleration from 0-100 km/h in just 3.4 seconds flat.

The new V12’s impressive performance figures are ensured by a series of leading-edge technical solutions, including newly-designed piston heads, the latest evolution of Ferrari’s anti-knock control software, multispark injection and overall weight reduction. As a result the GTC4Lusso also benefits from an improvement in specific emissions, producing just 0.51g CO2/km/cv compared to the FF’s 0.55g.

The adoption of 6-in-1 exhaust manifolds with equal length pipes and a new electronic by-pass valve, combined with the meticulous attention to perfecting engine harmonics at all engine speeds and in all kinds of throttle situations, have produced a unique, all-encompassing soundtrack that is engaging for occupants and driver alike. Providing a suitably sporting note during press-on driving, it recedes to a subtle yet potent purr in the city or on the motorway.

AERODYNAMICS

From the very earliest stages of its design, the aerodynamics research carried out on the GTC4Lusso went hand-in-glove with the development of its styling by Ferrari Design  and focused on the vital area of drag reduction. Thanks to in-depth CFD modelling and numerous wind tunnel sessions, an improvement of over 6% was made on the already-excellent drag coefficient figure achieved with the FF.

The engine’s additional power and the need to improve cooling of the radiating masses at the front of the car, whilst still reducing the drag caused by the air intakes, demanded a single, but larger grille. The air intakes are now centred towards the centre line of the car to make more efficient use of the high overall pressure values typical of this area. The side sections of the bumpers have thus been turned into one single smooth surface which improves the management of the flow in front of the wheels.

On the flanks there is now a three-louvre air vent that recalls that of the 330 GTC. Ducts behind the louvres lead to both the engine compartment and the front wheelarch thus reducing internal pressure which not only cuts drag but also boosts downforce.

The GTC4Lusso also has an innovative rear diffuser with a keel shape and vertical fences that channel the air flow towards the centre, reducing the width of the wake and, once again, cutting drag as well as accelerating extraction.

The combined action of the spoiler and diffuser moves the centre of the various pressures acting on the car towards the rear axle, increasing the grip of the steered rear wheels and thus the car’s overall drivability.

VEHICLE DYNAMICS

The FF first introduced the 4RM system integrated with the E-Diff, F1-Trac, SCM and ESC to guarantee superb traction and control in all weather conditions. The GTC4Lusso marks another major advance, by introducing new control and integration logics with the evolved 4RM system which includes the rear-wheel steering.

The improved 4RM EVO system has been integrated with the rear-wheel steering resulting in the new Ferrari-patented 4RM-S (four-wheel drive, four-wheel steering) system, which was developed around the fourth generation of the Side Slip Control (SSC4) and now also encompasses the E-Diff electronic differential and SCM-E suspension damping.

The 4RM EVO system is more precise than ever. Management of front torque in particular has been improved across the board, but specifically in terms of SS4-based Torque Vectoring which delivers and distributes torque to the front axle faster. The result is an improvement in the differentiation and precision of the torque delivery between the two wheels during cornering. At the heart of the system is the innovative use of the PTU, a Ferrari patent that delivers four-wheel drive but still, uniquely, maintains 53% of the car’s weight at the rear whilst weighing 50% less than conventional 4WD systems. Thanks to the PTU, in fact, 90% of the available torque can be delivered to the outside wheel without penalising the overall traction guaranteed by the front axle.

The rear-wheel steering system features an integrated dynamic response control model designed to make the car more nimble going into corners, thereby limiting the corrections the driver needs to make driving through and out of bends. It introduces the concept of thrust vectoring control for the first time which, via the rotation of the rear wheels, transfers excess longitudinal force to increase the lateral force generated by the tyres. This means the car reaches its limit more gradually and that there is also an improvement in the lateral acceleration that can be achieved which, in turn, delivers higher performance.

The Magnaride SCM-E damper control is also an integrated part of the 4RM-S to ensure the GTC4Lusso delivers not just superb grip and traction but also comfort on road surfaces of all types.

The SSC4 Side Slip Control System controls all the car’s components and vehicle dynamics controls. Through the information it receives from the onboard sensors and grip estimation, the SSC4 can intervene on all of the controls governed by the on-board systems thus adapt the car’s behaviour to suit differing dynamic behaviour and grip conditions.

The 4RM-S system means that drivers can fully exploit the GTC4Lusso’s extraordinary performance in all kinds of conditions. On snowy, wet or other low-grip surfaces, it delivers tremendous stability and a sensation of masterful control and security that translates into superior performance. On high-grip roads, on the other hand, the car is exceptionally nimble as well as more stable and precise with the result that it is faster into corners.

STYLING

EXTERIOR

Penned by Ferrari Design, the GTC4Lusso is a further refinement of the shooting brake coupé, reinterpreting the concept with an extremely streamlined, tapered shape that gives it an almost fastback-like silhouette.

Its sporty soul is underscored by the forms and styling of the rear where the curve of the roof has been lowered whilst retaining enough volume to guarantee exceptional space and comfort for all four occupants, as well as an ample luggage compartment.

Ferrari’s signature twin rear lights adorn the tail. These not only emphasise the car’s muscular shoulders and broaden it horizontally, but work visually with the tail pipes to lend a sense of imposing power to the rear.

Dynamically chiselled crease lines create a diapason theme along the car’s flanks, breaking up the optical mass, accentuating the muscular wheelarch and imparting a sculpted athleticism.

The front of the car is dominated by a large single grille that not only provides all the necessary cooling but also lends the car a sense of imposing power.

INTERIOR

Meticulous attention to design and carefully executed detailing has produced a cabin that is a flawless triumph of sporty luxury.

Another first for the GTC4Lusso is the new Dual Cockpit architecture designed to enhance the shared driving experience for both driver and passenger. It features both a Driver Cockpit and a Passenger Cockpit separated by a central divider on which are clustered all of the comfort-oriented controls common to both.

The Human-Machine Interface has also been further evolved for the GTC4Lusso: the entire Driver Cockpit has been redesigned, in fact, starting with the steering wheel which is now more compact thanks to new smaller airbag. Consequently, the instrument clusters behind the wheel are now more visible. The controls are also new and different in shape, function and positioning, with the aim of further improving ergonomics and ease of use.  The same applies to all the secondary driver commands which have been revised and clustered into more convenient functional areas.

Huge attention was also lavished on the front passenger area. The Passenger Cockpit was specifically designed to ensure all commands were within easy reach. It is also more comfortable thanks to softer armrests while larger, easy-access storage compartments are a practical addition. A dedicated LCD Touchscreen lends it a very modern élan.

Aside from acting as a divider between driver and passenger, the central tunnel also doubles as a bridge between front and rear passengers creating the same ambience as a luxurious, relaxing living space, a fact underscored by the large, comfortable wraparound seats.

Apart from its innovative architecture, the cabin’s most striking feature is the beautiful craftsmanship of its materials which have been painstakingly selected and combined to enrich the atmosphere on board.

On-board comfort

In-car acoustic comfort is significantly better than in the FF, thanks to improved insulation from exterior noise. Needless to say, however, this does not in the least impinge on the signature sound of the Ferrari V12 in the cabin.  The improved sound insulation offers greater isolation and also allows occupants enjoy the car’s audio system to the fullest, which in turn makes longer journeys more comfortable and relaxing.  This was attained by a 20% improvement in rigidity of the car’s chassis attachment points, upgrading of the climate control system, which is now 25% quieter, and improved filtering and damping of intrusive frequencies through the use of cutting-edge materials with targeted acoustic properties.

Another essential contributor to the GTC4Lusso’s in-car comfort is the significant improvement in the efficiency of the climate control system. A new ventilation concept was developed to improve the diffusion and uniformity of the air through the cabin.

To improve its sensitivity, the number of sensors that relay environmental information to the climate control system were almost doubled and a new RLFSoSe (Rain Light AntiFogging Solar Sensor) added. The climate control system’s maximum performance levels were another area of focus and it now delivers the desired temperature 25% faster.

infotainment

To underscore the GTC4Lusso’s Grand Touring prowess, Ferrari has also given it a new ultra-intuitive infotainment system that makes all of its features and content instantly accessible.

The system includes:

• A 10.25” full HD capacitive touchscreen for multi-touch use.
• New completely redesigned and simplified HMI – all functions can now be accessed both via the screen or physical controls – 2 rollers and 4 buttons.
• A new 1.5 Ghz Jacinto 6 CPU with 2GB of RAM: the processor is eight times more powerful than the previous system.
• Split View: different types of content can be viewed simultaneously.
• Sat-nav with 3D maps.
• In-cabin temperature can be set and front seat settings controlled
• Connectivity via Apple CarPlay.

Main optional equipment

Passenger Display

The GTC4Lusso features the latest evolution of the passenger display. The 8.8” colour full HD and Full Touch screen not only displays the car’s performance statistics and status as its predecessor did, but can also be used to interact with its onboard system. For instance, the passenger display can be used to select music to play even when sat-nav information is being displayed on the main central screen.

It is also possible to select a new Point of Interest (POI), such as a restaurant, and send it directly to the sat-nav even when the latter has already been set. The new POI will then automatically be added to the route. The display essentially turns the passenger into a co-driver.

Low-E roof

Low-E glass incorporates a technology that boosts in-car comfort whilst reducing heat exchange between exterior and interior. When outside temperatures are high, the specially-treated glass reflects solar rays away from the car, keeping the interior cool. However, when outside temperatures are lower, it reflects the heat inside the car inwards to cut heat loss to the outside, thereby keeping the cabin warmer.  This new panoramic roof means less use will be made of the air conditioning system and occupants also enjoy an “open-air” feeling when driving.

7 Years Maintenance

Ferrari’s unparalleled quality standards and increasing focus on client service underpin the extended seven-year maintenance programme offered with the GTC4Lusso. Available across the entire range, it covers all regular maintenance for the first seven years of the car’s life. This scheduled maintenance programme for Ferraris is an exclusive service that allows clients the certainty that their car is being kept at peak performance and safety over the years. This very special service is also available to owners of pre-owned Ferraris.

Regular maintenance (at intervals of either 20,000 km or once a year with no mileage restrictions), original spares and meticulous checks by staff trained directly at the Ferrari Training Centre in Maranello using the most modern diagnostic tools are just some of the advantages of the Genuine Maintenance Programme.

The service is available on all markets worldwide and from all Dealerships on the Official Dealership Network.

The Genuine Maintenance programme further extends the range of after-sales services offered by Ferrari to satisfy clients wishing to preserve the performance and excellence that are the signatures of all cars built in Maranello which itself has long been synonymous with leading-edge technology and sportiness.

Technical Specifications

* Engine power is expressed in kW, in accordance with the International System of Units (SI) and in CV for reasons of homogeneity. With 98 octane-rated petrol
**With optional equipment
*** Combined cycle with HELE system (ECE+EUDC)

Maintaining a spotlight on the development of the world best drivers’ cars, McLaren Automotive will continue to focus purely on the development of two-seater sports and supercars.  At the heart of the Business Plan is a commitment to its industry-leading 20-25 percent of turnover invested in Research and Development for future products and technology.  Over the six-year Business Plan period, this represents an investment of £1,000,000,000 and will lead to the launch of 15 all-new cars or derivatives.

The launch of the new 570GT at the Geneva Motor Show represents the culmination of new model introductions for 2016. McLaren also confirmed the addition of a Spider derivative within its Sports Series family in 2017. Following the positive reception of the 675LT Coupé and Spider models, which sold out in a matter of weeks, McLaren has also announced that ‘LT’ will become a track-focused sub-brand with further models in the future.

Subsequent to the global success of the petrol-electric hybrid-powered McLaren P1^TM, McLaren Automotive has confirmed that at least 50 percent of its cars will feature hybrid technology by the end of the Business Plan period. Research engineers at the McLaren Technology Centre in Woking, England, are also in the early prototype stages of the development of a fully-electric powertrain to evaluate its possible use in a future generation of an Ultimate Series car.

Mike Flewitt, Chief Executive Officer of McLaren Automotive commented: ‘Since its inception, McLaren Automotive has launched world-class products and this has been made possible by continuous investment in our future. The launch of our new six-year Business Plan, named Track22 because I believe that we are on track to a very exciting and successful future, scopes our future investments and development strategy up until 2022. This will see us launch 15 all-new cars or derivatives within our existing Sports Series, Super Series and Ultimate Series families. We will also develop an all-new engine architecture that will debut towards the end of the Business Plan period.

‘Our next hybrid vehicle will launch towards the latter part of our six year plan, and we will see at least 50 percent featuring hybrid technology by 2022. Hybridisation has obvious CO₂ and fuel consumption advantages but for us, it is all about delivering the performance and enjoyment of a McLaren. But we won’t stop there. Our engineers have even started work on a one-off prototype to evaluate the possible benefits of a fully-electric powertrain in an Ultimate Series car; such is the pace of development.

‘Above all, this Business Plan confirms that McLaren Automotive will remain proudly and fiercely independent by continuing to build the world’s finest two-seater sports and supercars, hand-crafted by our team in Woking, England.’

Now in its third year, the Awards are designed to highlight and advise on the best new cars on the market specifically for UK customers.

On selecting the 570S Coupé as the Best Performance Car of 2016, freelance journalist and UKCotY jury member Richard Bremner commented: ‘The 570S is McLaren’s best car yet – a sensational blend of all that you want from a supercar, including a drivetrain that’s not overpowered. Easier to live with than many of its rivals, too.’ Fellow juror Simon McBride added: ‘This may be a niche car when it comes to UK sales but that is not the point. The McLaren a masterpiece, it has serious road presence while its head-turning ability is undoubted. This is what makes Britain great – it is an engineering triumph.’

Guy Bird, regular contributor to CAR, CarDesignNews and Wallpaper* concluded: ‘McLaren has called the 570S: “the most important car in our short history”. We agree.’

Andy Palmer, Director of Sports Series at McLaren Automotive explained: ‘The launch of the Sports Series has been one of the biggest challenges for McLaren. It has opened up a new market segment for the brand, which is dominated by well-established and extremely strong rivals, but the 570S Coupé has proved to be up to the challenge. It was important that the 570S, and the Sports Series as a whole, lost none of the excitement or engagement that marks out a McLaren as a McLaren. This latest award is testament to the team behind the car, who have designed and developed a true British sports car.’ 

The 570S Coupé is powered by a 3.8-litre twin turbo V8 generating 570PS (562bhp) and 600Nm (443 lb ft) of torque. Acceleration from 0-100km/h (0-62mph) takes 3.2 seconds, 0-200km/h (0-124mph) in 9.5 seconds and on to a top speed of 328km/h (204mph). Weighing more than 140kg less than its nearest rival, at just 1,313kg (2,895lbs), thanks in part to the unique lightweight carbon fibre MonoCell II chassis, the 570S Coupé boasts a power-to-weight figure of 434PS, while benefitting from a luxuriously equipped interior tailored towards day-to-day usability and optimised access.

These characteristics place the 911 R firmly in the tradition of its historic namesake: a road-homologated racing car from 1967. Produced as part of a limited production series, the original 911 R was campaigned in iconic road races of the period, such as the Tour de France and Targa Florio, and also in world record runs.

Like its legendary predecessor, the new 911 R offers an unfiltered driving experience, delivered via systematic lightweight construction and a devotion to maximum performance: this special model has an overall weight of 1,370 kilograms and is thus the lightest version of the 911. With a high-revving six-cylinder naturally aspirated engine and manual sports transmission, Porsche is once again underlining its commitment to especially emotional high-performance sports cars. Developed in the Motorsport workshop, the 911 R extends the spectrum of high-performance naturally-aspirated engines alongside the motor sport-inspired, track-bred models 911 GT3 and 911 GT3 RS.

In the rear of the 911 R lies the charismatic flat-six ‘boxer’ engine with a displacement of four-litres, familiar from the 911 GT3 RS. The race-bred engine delivers 500 hp at 8,250 rpm and generates 460 Nm at 6,250 rpm.

From a standing start, 0-60 mph is possible in 3.7 seconds. In keeping with the pure character of the 911 R, it is available exclusively with a six-speed manual sports transmission. The short gearshift travel emphasises the interactive driving experience. The forward thrust of the 911 R continues to a potential top speed of 201 mph (323 km/h), and Combined NEDC fuel consumption is 21.2 mpg (13.3 l/100 km).

A thoroughbred driving machine: technology from the race track
The 911 R could almost have been made for twisting roads. Fitted as standard with specially-tuned rear-axle steering, direct turn-in and precise handling is guaranteed while maintaining high stability. In addition, the mechanical rear limited slip differential ensures maximum traction.

Ensuring the greatest possible deceleration are Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes (PCCB), also fitted as standard. The discs measure a generous 410 mm diameter on the front axle and 390 mm on the rear. Ultra High Performance Tyres of 245 mm width at the front and 305 mm width at the rear provide assured contact to the road. These are mounted on lightweight, forged aluminium wheels with centre-locking and matt-finish.

Motorsport development has adapted the control systems of the Porsche Stability Management (PSM) for the 911 R, tailoring the car for a focused and authentic driving experience. An optional single-mass flywheel for the engine is one example of this, resulting in a significant improvement in spontaneity and high-rev responsiveness of the engine. A double-declutch function – activated by pressing a button – for perfect gearshifts when changing down is also part of the repertoire of the 911 R.

For broad everyday versatility, a lift system can also be ordered: it raises ground clearance of the front axle by approximately 30 mm at the touch of a button.

With an overall weight of 1,370 kg, the 911 R undercuts the 911 GT3 RS by 50 kg. The bonnet and front wheel-arches are made of carbonfibre and the roof is magnesium, which reduces the centre of gravity. Rear windscreen and rear side windows are lightweight plastic. Additional weight-saving factors are the reduced sound insulation in the interior and the omission of a rear bench seat.

The optional air conditioning system and the audio system also hint at the intense slimming regime.

Wolf in sheep’s clothing: classic 911 look with GT motor racing technology
From the exterior, the 911 R gives a reserved impression. At first sight, the body resembles that of the Carrera. The nose and rear body will be familiar from the 911 GT3, and hint at the birthplace of the 911 R: namely the motorsport department in Flacht. In technical terms therefore, the 911 R has a lot to show under the skin: namely the drive technology from the 911 GT3 RS.

All the lightweight components of the body and the complete chassis originate from the 911 GT3. However, with a view to road use, the body does not have the fixed rear wing familiar with that model. Instead, a retractable rear spoiler shared with the Carrera models and a bespoke aerodynamic diffuser beneath the rear underbody provides the necessary downforce.

The front and rear apron come from the 911 GT3, with a re-designed spoiler lip installed on the front. The sports exhaust system consists of the lightweight construction material titanium.

Continuous coloured stripes in red or green over the entire mid-section of the vehicle provide a visual cue to the legendary predecessor. A further leitmotif is provided by the ‘Porsche’ script along each side of the vehicle.

The driver and front passenger sit in a carbon-fibre bucket seat, trimmed with bespoke fabric centre panels in Pepita tartan design, a nod to the first 911 in the 1960s. Fabric pull straps on each door are a familiar hint to the focused intent of all 911 models from the GT department.

Ahead of the driver sits an R-specific 360 mm diameter GT sport steering wheel, and a short shift gearlever – not to mention the obvious clutch pedal in the footwell – contribute to the specific interior ambience. And underlining the special nature of this limited production model, carbon trim strips in the interior with an embedded aluminum badge on the passenger’s side indicate the limited number of each 911 R.

Launch and prices
The new Porsche 911 R is available to order from today in Porsche Centres in the UK and Ireland, priced from £136,901. Limited to 991 units worldwide, first UK deliveries are scheduled for June.

The 911 R is arguably the ultimate road-focused 911 in the 53 year history of the model. It is certain to be appreciated by long-standing fans of the 911, and in particular those customers that have consistently owned, lived with and driven successive generations of this iconic sports car.

The Aston Martin Vulcan is the product of the luxury British carmaker’s extensive motorsport experience. There is no question that the track-only supercar demonstrates Aston Martin’s flair for design and now a select group of owners have had the opportunity to use the Aston Martin Vulcan for its intended purpose – as an exhilarating 820 bhp supercar, engineered exclusively for extreme performance on-track.

The customers in Abu Dhabi received tuition in the V12 Vantage S road car and the Vantage GT4 race car, before heading out onto the iconic Formula 1 circuit in their own Aston Martin Vulcan, powered by a potent 7.0-litre V12 engine. Passenger-side tuition was given on every lap and the customer’s skills were tested throughout the day and into the night so they could fully experience the car in different atmospheric conditions.

Aston Martin Director of Special Projects and Motorsport David King commented: “Aston Martin Vulcan is a very special car and that is why we have developed a unique ownership programme. This includes specialist training so customers can drive it in the way it was intended. It has been great to see the first customer’s reactions after unleashing their very own Aston Martin Vulcan on the Grand Prix circuit here in Abu Dhabi.”

Just 24 Aston Martin Vulcans will be built in total and all 24 customers will receive world-class tuition so they are able to make the most of their new supercar.

Aston Martin Racing works’ driver and high performance development driver Darren Turner said: “The priority for all of us on the team was to produce a car that provides immense enjoyment for the customers. Judging by the reactions we have seen this week that goal has been achieved and surpassed. 

The guys here this week have all been in the car as my passenger at recent events, but this was the first time they got to see and drive their very own Aston Martin Vulcan. It has been a pleasure to see how quickly they have all got up to speed and to hear their first impressions of the car. I predict many fun track days ahead for these guys!”

This incredible collection, just a selection of the limited production run of McLaren P1™ GTRs, is gathered inside the new McLaren P1™ GTR Workshop. Located in Woking, England, in close proximity to McLaren Special Operations (MSO) and our McLaren GT race team, the recently opened facility is solely dedicated to looking after these track-only McLaren models. Here, hand-picked technicians and engineers ready each car for bespoke events at world-class race circuits, to which McLaren also ships over 80 tonnes of support equipment, from telemetry systems to Pirelli tyres.

It’s all part of the McLaren P1™ GTR Driver Programme, an ownership experience as unique as driving the McLaren P1™ GTR. Customers don’t just own the fastest and most exciting McLaren this side of our Formula 1™ cars, but also experience the world of McLaren like few have enjoyed it before.

 From the moment a customer enters the McLaren P1™ GTR Driver Programme, they have access to our most advanced facilities and highly skilled personnel. Frank Stephenson, McLaren Design Director, can help a customer design their car’s livery if they wish (hence the variety on display); each customer is fitted for a unique carbon fibre seat, and measured for a tailor-made race suit and helmet. They spend time with their personal fitness trainer too, and together with their driver coach, undergo simulator sessions at the McLaren Technology Centre (MTC) in Woking to ensure they get the most from their car.

Each of these elements is geared towards preparing customers, both mentally and physically, for the driving events at world-class race circuits – the pinnacle of the bespoke Driver Programme. Supported by dedicated McLaren driver coaches, engineers and mechanics, is it the same experience that a professional racing driver would go through on a race weekend, as the team work closely with the drivers to hone their skills and push them to new levels.

The world’s most exclusive McLaren owner experience has already taken to the track for the first time, when seven examples of the McLaren P1™ GTR were let loose in October 2015 at the Circuit de Catalunya in Spain. ‘This event gave the drivers the first taste of what the McLaren P1™ GTR can really do,’ says McLaren Chief Test Driver Chris Goodwin. ‘It has got each and every one of them hooked for the rest of the calendar, and in 2016 more customers will join us. We’ll be visiting some of the most exciting and challenging circuits around the world, including the Circuit of the Americas in the USA, Silverstone here in the UK, Spa-Francorchamps in Belgium, and Yas Marina in Abu Dhabi. It’s going to be an amazing year.’

With the Mission E project, Porsche is continuing to back sustainable growth. In Stuttgart-Zuffenhausen alone more than 1,000 new jobs are being created. The company will be investing around 700 million euros in its main site there. Over the next few years, a new paint shop and a new assembly plant will be built. The existing engine factory is also being expanded for the production of electric motors. In addition, the existing body shop is being enlarged. On top of that come other areas in which the company will be investing in this context, such as in the Weissach development centre.

The Mission E concept car celebrated its premiere at the Frankfurt International Motor Show (IAA) in September. Visitors were gripped above all by its highly emotional design. Living up to the buzzword of ‘E-Performance’, the technological trailblazer combines outstanding driving performance with trendsetting day-to-day practicality. The four-door car with four individual seats has a system power output of over 600 hp (440 kW). The vehicle will thus achieve both acceleration of 0 to 100 km/h in under 3.5 seconds and a range of more than 500 kilometres. Charged via an 800-volt charger unit specially developed for the car, which is twice as powerful as today’s quick-charge systems, the lithium-ion batteries integrated within the vehicle floor have enough power again for 80 percent of the range after just 15 minutes. The vehicle can optionally be ‘refuelled’ wirelessly by induction via a coil set into the garage floor.

Dr. Wolfgang Porsche, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Porsche AG: “With Mission E, we are making a clear statement about the future of the brand. Even in a greatly changing motoring world, Porsche will maintain its front-row position with this fascinating sports car.”

Chairman of the Porsche Executive Board, Dr. Oliver Blume: “We are resolutely taking on the challenge of electric mobility. Even with solely battery-powered sports cars, Porsche is remaining true to its philosophy and offering our customers the sportiest and technologically most sophisticated model in this market segment.” Blume added that the E Mission project underlines the importance of Stuttgart-Zuffenhausen as a production site, of Baden-Württemberg as a centre of technology and of the whole German automotive industry.

Uwe Hück, Chairman of the Central Works Council and Deputy Chairman of the Porsche AG Supervisory Board: “A day to celebrate! Yes, we did it! We brought Mission E to Zuffenhausen and Weissach where the future has tradition. The workers’ side made the employer’s side an offer that they couldn’t refuse. This heralds the dawn of a new age in Zuffenhausen and Weissach. Digitalisation will be growing up with us. And Factory 4.0 will be a major challenge for the workforce, trade union and employer. We will be taking new approaches but not giving up on the social aspects. With today’s decision, Porsche is driving flat out with no speed restrictions into the automotive and industrial future.”

Mazda RX-VISION (Reference Exhibit)

An exquisitely proportioned front-engine, rear-wheel drive model, the RX-VISION represents a “vision” of the future that could only come from Mazda. And one that countless fans of the brand around the world hope will become a reality.

Rotary engines are unique in that they generate power through the rotational motion of triangular rotors (unlike the reciprocating pistons in conventional automotive engines). Overcoming numerous technical difficulties, Mazda succeeded in commercialising rotary power, first in the Mazda Cosmo Sport 110S in 1967 and then in several other models. The most successful of these was the Mazda RX-7, the most-sold rotary car ever with more than 800,000 produced between 1978 and 2002.

Continually striving to improve output, fuel economy and durability, Mazda was the only company to ever win the 24 Hours of Le Mans with a rotary-powered race car, a feat it managed in 1991 in the Mazda 787B.

Although not currently mass-producing any rotary models, Mazda never ceased its R&D activities. The carmaker chose the SKYACTIV-R label for the next-generation rotary engine to express its determination to continue delivering its customers convention-defying technology and an uncompromising SKYACTIV experience behind the wheel.

“I look forward to talking with you more about this vision we revealed here today at the Mazda stand,” said Mazda’s Representative Director, President and CEO Masamichi Kogai. “Mazda will continue to take on new challenges in an effort to build a special bond with our customers and become their one and only brand.” The Tokyo Motor Show opens to the public from 30 October to 8 November.”

The F12tdf is a concentration of technical innovations which involve all those areas central to Ferrari’s DNA: engine, aerodynamics and vehicle dynamics. As a result, in terms of acceleration, roadholding and agility, the new berlinetta is second to none.

The F12tdf’s performance is assured by the 780 cv, naturally-aspirated V12 derived directly from the F12berlinetta’s multi-award-winning engine. The car’s exhilarating dynamic behaviour, specifically its lateral acceleration in corners, is due to an 8% increase in the ratio of the front tyres compared to the rear ones. The car’s natural tendency to oversteer as a result of the change in tyre sizes is compensated for by the innovative rear-wheel steering system – known as the Virtual Short Wheelbase, which is integrated with the other vehicle dynamic control systems – that guarantees the steering wheel response times and turn-in of a competition car while increasing stability at high speed. Cornering speeds are also higher thanks to the significant increase in downforce – +87% – which has reached unprecedented levels for a front-engined V12 berlinetta.

A radical redesign of the bodywork, interior, engine, transmission and running gear, along with the abundant use of carbon-fibre inside and out, has slashed 110 kg off the car’s overall weight.

All of these factors combine to produce record performance figures: 0-100 km/h in 2.9 seconds and 0-200 km/h in 7.9 seconds in addition to a substantial boost in lateral acceleration. The F12tdf laps Fiorano in just 1’21”.

Outstanding stopping distances are guaranteed by the adoption of the new Extreme Design one-piece brake callipers already seen on the LaFerrari. This new-generation system means the car can brake from 100-0 km/h in just 30.5 m and from 200-0 in 121 m.

POWERTRAIN

The engine is the F12berlinetta’s 6262cc 65° V12 on which Ferrari engineers worked to boost maximum power output from 740 cv to 780 cv at 8,500 rpm, yielding a specific power output of 125 cv/l. The engine’s sporty response is assured by a maximum torque figure of 705 Nm (up from 690 Nm) at 6,750 rpm with 80% already available at 2,500 rpm, resulting in unparalleled, progressive pick-up all the way to the red-line at 8,900 rpm.

Numerous modifications have been developed for this engine, starting with the use of race-inspired mechanical tappets and variable-geometry intake trumpets used on Formula 1 cars which help boost volumetric efficiency at high revs.

The F12tdf is equipped with a specific version of the F1 DCT with 6% shorter gear ratios that delivers 30% faster upshifts and 40% faster downshifts.

VEHICLE DYNAMICS

Ferrari’s engineers sought to create an extremely agile and powerful car which could also be driven by less expert drivers. They drew on the wealth of experience built up in the XX programmes which are dedicated to developing extremely high performance cars driven by non-professional drivers.

Extraordinary chassis dynamics, in terms of maximum lateral acceleration and responsiveness, are in part achieved by the increase in the front tyre dimensions, which jump from 255 to 275, along with the front channel size – up from 9.5” to 10”. This modification guarantees higher lateral acceleration generated by the front axle but, alone, this would have caused oversteer on the limit, making the car more challenging for less expert drivers.

To enable even gentlemen drivers to make full use of the performance, Ferrari developed its new Virtual Short Wheelbase system. Debuting on the F12tdf, the rear axle is active, allowing the rear wheels to pivot around a vertical axis.

Using model-based control logic developed entirely in-house by Ferrari, the rear axle steering automatically adjusts the rear wheels, working out the optimal steering angle as a function of the steering wheel angle, speed of steering inputs and vehicle speed.

The Virtual Short Wheelbase improves the car’s responsiveness to make it feel more agile, with instantaneous turn-in that can be best appreciated on twisty roads and on more technically challenging tracks while, at the same time, improving stability at high speeds.

AERODYNAMICS

The F12tdf’s aerodynamic performance is nothing short of record-breaking – its aerodynamic efficiency figure is 1.6, almost double that of the F12berlinetta. Downforce is 230 kg at 200 km/h, which is an impressive 107 kg more.

Development affected every area of the car’s surface, producing striking elements that lend its forms a unique sleek power. At the front, a highly complex bumper contributes to downforce generation. It features a radically scooped lower section and incorporates a competition car-inspired splitter, dive planes, floor wings and louvres to boost the efficiency of both the sides and the underbody.

The Aerobridge on the car’s front flank has been redesigned to increase the energising effect of the air flow along the top of the sides, while at the rear, louvres on the wheelarch create a depression that extracts air from the inner wheelarch, thereby increasing the efficiency of a section of the underbody that is usually little used in generating downforce.

The rear spoiler is now 60mm longer and 30mm higher, while the rake of the rear screen has been made more vertical to extend the surface area over which the spoiler can generate downforce and to capitalise on its advantages more effectively. The concave curvature of the rear luggage hatch either side of the rear screen further enhances the solution.

Three pairs of GT-racing-derived strakes have been adopted on the aerodynamic underbody and are responsible for 30% of the increase in downforce compared to the F12berlinetta. The rear diffuser has been completely redesigned and now sports a system of three active flaps. It has been split into three channels and features curved fences and vertical splitters to boost the power of the vortexes and enhance the expansion of the flow in the horizontal plane. This radical aerodynamic design work essentially created a whole new car that also marks a major stylistic departure from the  F12berlinetta.

STYLING

Designed by the Ferrari Styling Centre, the new F12tdf has particularly imposing yet sensual forms, the product of Ferrari’s continuous commitment to melding sculptural beauty with functional demands.

All of the bodywork panels, from the chiselled nose to the tail, have been revised. Wider front and rear tracks also give the car an even more aggressive stance.

In terms of the formal design language, the objective was to create a sophisticated interaction between the sculptural surfaces of the F12berlinetta and a more graphic treatment of the various new aerodynamic features. The best testament to this intent is the evolution of the Aerobridge, the design of  which is further enhanced by the use of bare carbon-fibre. Developed in such a technical manner, this component combines with the other details in creating a coherent aesthetic approach to the whole car.

The car’s uncompromising sportiness is expressed with the same degree of purity in the deliberately Spartan cockpit. The wrap-around effect that embraces the driving position is intensified by the use of carbon-fibre housings for the instruments and satellite pods. The door panels have been pared back to a single carbon-fibre shell, while the glove compartment has disappeared to be replaced by simple knee padding. Alcantara rather the traditional leather was chosen for the cabin trim, technical fabric for the seats and patterned aluminium instead of mats for the floor, once again with the aim of saving every last ounce of weight.

The F12tdf’s specification is completed by lightweight alloys with five twinned spokes that are designed to have the narrowest section possible to reduce unsprung weight.

The arrival of the ‘65’ registration plate will trigger the traditional September sales spike as eager buyers of the great British brand’s luxury sports cars take delivery of their new models.

The Newport Pagnell business – among the busiest Aston Martin dealerships in the world since it opened its impressive new car showroom in 2012 – is gearing up for one of its most hectic months of the year as buyers from across the UK collect their new cars.

Leading the charge from the Buckinghamshire showroom this September is the arrival of one of the first new Vantage GT12 sports cars to be handed over to a UK customer.

With production strictly limited to just 100, the Vantage GT12 special edition draws on all of the brand’s learning from years of top level motorsport competition around the globe. It is equipped with a new iteration of the Aston Martin 6.0-litre V12 engine and is capable of generating up to 600 PS making it not only more powerful but also 100kg lighter than a standard V12 Vantage S.

Significantly restyled, as well as re-engineered, the motorsport-inspired road car is lower and wider than any of its Vantage siblings and boasts cutting edge motorsport-inspired features such as the extensive use of carbon fibre inside, as well as a track-focused aerodynamics pack which includes a prominent rear wing and pronounced front splitter.

Inspired by Aston Martin Racing’s successful campaigns, this new GT3-derived Vantage has been designed and engineered exclusively at Aston Martin’s Gaydon Headquarters in Warwickshire, England, to be the most overt expression of everything that defines Vantage: an inspirational sports model offering supreme driveability on the road, and uncompromising dynamic performance on track.

Commenting on the Vantage GT12, and the prospect of a particularly busy month of new car business, Aston Martin Works Commercial Director Paul Spires said: “September remains a hugely busy period for us, and with the added anticipation around deliveries of the brand’s most sought-after models such as the now sold-out Vantage GT12, we are set for a hectic but very positive few weeks.”  

Breitling and Bentley unveiled the Bentley Continental GT Speed Breitling Jet Team Series at the Seattle Boeing Seafair Airshow. Owners of these bespoke Mulliner vehicles were presented keys to their seven cars in front of the seven jets by the matching jet pilot, and also received the corresponding Chronomat 44 Breitling Jet Team Limited Edition numbered timepiece. After seeing their cars for the first time, guests experienced a once-in-a-lifetime passenger flight in formation with the Breitling Jet Team high above the Seattle skyline.

The Breitling Jet Team is the world’s largest professional civilian flight team performing in jets, comprised of seven L-39 C Albatros Jets that can reach speeds of up to 565 mph and fly within just a few feet of each other. Like their automotive counterpart, the Bentley Continental GT Speed, the team is widely recognized for their breathtaking displays, incredible speed, and flawless performance.

The vehicles were designed through Bentley’s exclusive Mulliner bespoke design program, complete with a special livery and interior materials designed to echo elements of the Breitling Jet Team aircraft. The vehicles are outfitted to satisfy the most discerning customers with a special exterior that includes a striking duo-tone split of Hallmark and Onyx with highlights of Breitling Yellow matching the jets. Each of the seven cars is individually numbered to signify its place in the limited production run, which matches the number of jets in the team’s fleet. In addition to the customized exterior, the interior has unique seats accented with the signature Breitling Yellow. The Continental GT Speed is Bentley’s fastest production vehicle ever, powered by a 6.0-liter twin-turbo W12 with 626 hp and a top speed of 206 mph. The Breitling Chronomat 44 Jet Team American Tour timepiece features the Breitling Jet Team logo on the dial, a sleek black steel case, Onyx black dial, and distinct yellow accents mirroring the colors of the Jet Team’s fleet. The caseback features the Breitling Jet Team American Tour logo with the limited edition numbering.

In 2002, Bentley caused a sensation by launching the Continental GT, the most powerful Bentley ever built. Breitling lent its personal touch to this epitome of luxury and performance by participating in the design of the technical instruments and creating the onboard clock. It was the very first time that Bentley had entrusted this task to a watchmaker. The Breitling for Bentley collection was born from the grand art of British car making and the fine Swiss watchmaking tradition. The partnership launched in 2003, the same year Bentley made its big comeback on the track of the Le Mans 24 Hours race by winning the two top spots right off the bat. More than 13 years later, this rich family of Breitling for Bentley chronographs has won over the planet through their unique blend of elegance and performance, power and style, sportiness and refinement.