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Jaguar has developed a furturistic lasar powered display at the inaugural London Design Biennale.

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  • Jaguar reveals ‘Utopia by Design’ installation for London’s first Design Biennale
  • Design team has curated their own installation for the exhibition using laser light technology to depict Jaguar’s past, present and future
  • UK luxury car manufacturer is headline partner of the exhibition
  • Exhibition to take place at Somerset House, London, 7th – 27th September
Jaguar’s designers have applied their talents to a futuristic installation at a major international exhibition in London.
The team, led by Jaguar Director of Design Ian Callum, revealed their laser-powered display at the inaugural London Design Biennale, a three-week event at Somerset House. Artists and designers from more than 30 countries are taking part, all working on the theme ‘Utopia by Design’. 

Jaguar is the headline partner of the exhibition. The brand is presenting a futuristic vehicle silhouette, with laser displays to tell the compelling story of its past, present and future. Visitors will look at the brand’s rich design history, seeing Jaguar push the boundaries of automotive design with motorsport glory at Le Mans and legendary designs such as the E-Type.
They will then see today’s cars, with a laser-powered light show to present the innovative, lightweight designs of modern Jaguars.
After that comes the ‘gallery of the future’, which traces a path through a rapidly changing world that poses challenges for automotive design, taking in autonomous technology and issues of health and wellbeing.
The installation culminates with a laser sculpture showing Callum’s innovative take on what a vehicle of a utopian future could look like.
Ian Callum, Director of Design at Jaguar, said: “We are really excited to reveal our installation for the London Design Biennale and show visitors at Somerset House what a utopian future looks like to us at Jaguar.
“As well as presenting our own installation, we have the opportunity to learn from other artists around the world and see what they have to offer, which is both interesting and invaluable. The final element that will be revealed as part of the installation illustrates our vision for a future which provides a sense of spirit, movement and optimism.”
Launching at Somerset House today, the London Design Biennale will present newly commissioned works in contemporary design, design-led innovation, creativity and research. Some of the world’s most exciting and ambitious designers, innovators and cultural bodies will gather at the exhibition to explore the role of design in our collective futures.
Dr Christopher Turner, Director of The London Design Biennale, said: “It is great to have Jaguar on board led by Ian Callum, one of the most prolific car designers responsible for the iconic brand associated with world-leading innovation and creativity.”
The exhibition is open to the general public from 7th September at Somerset House.

The world's first flat pack truck is now all ready for launch for countries that require transportation in challenging terrain.

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  • The first vehicle to be designed specifically to provide all-terrain mobility for the developing world
  • Revolutionary OX™ flat-pack truck aims to help communities to undertake a range of crucial daily tasks
  • Envisioned by entrepreneur and philanthropist Sir Torquil Norman; designed by renowned automotive engineer Professor Gordon Murray
The world’s first ‘flat-pack’ truck – the Global Vehicle Trust OX – has been revealed in London, designed to provide low-cost all-terrain mobility for remote parts of Africa and the developing world.
Across Africa and other developing world, there is intense need for improved transport, for both everyday living as well as emergencies. 

The OX has been designed specifically to tackle a host of transport challenges, and to undertake crucial daily tasks, such as collect drinking water and transporting grain, fertilizer or building materials. It is unlike any other vehicle and has no direct competitor – whether from a concept, performance or pricing point of view.
The OX originated from the vision of one man – Sir Torquil Norman. Five years ago, he founded the Global Vehicle Trust (GVT), to pursue his ambition to help people in the developing world by providing cost-effective mobility. The GVT subsequently briefed renowned automotive designer Professor Gordon Murray on a unique humanitarian programme to create a revolutionary lightweight truck.
The brief for the vehicle called for high ground clearance, excellent approach and departure angles, large wheel movement, a multi-purpose layout and a three-person cab. Gordon Murray’s design for the OX is nothing short of revolutionary, and the flat-pack format fundamentally changes the way a vehicle can be bought and transported, providing specific advantages to lead times and overall unit cost.
The OX has been designed to offer superb all-terrain ability, but it also has a huge and adaptable load carrying capability. The packaging is a key triumph of the OX project: the overall vehicle length is far shorter than a large SUV, and yet it can carry a payload of 1900kg (approximately twice the capacity of most current pick-ups) with a load volume of 7.0 m3. Based on EU size guidelines, it can seat up to 13 people or carry eight 44-gallon drums or three Euro-pallets.
Therefore, the OX not only addresses the problems with the roads; it also addresses the specific need to transport large volumes of goods and people at low cost.
The OX’s cabin provides spacious accommodation for three people, and the driver is seated centrally. This layout has specific advantages for the world’s developing countries, some of which have right-hand traffic, while others drive on the left of the road.
All-terrain ability is crucial for the developing world, and the OX has been engineered to perform as well as, or better than, a four-wheel drive vehicle across a range of surfaces, while offering durable mobility with two driven wheels.
The OX’s revolutionary nature extends beyond the vehicle design because, uniquely, it is capable of being flat-packed within itself, enabling it to be transported more efficiently around the world. It takes three people less than six hours to create the flat pack in the UK prior to shipping, and six of these flat packs can be shipped within a 40ft high-cube container. Assembly labour is transferred to the importing country, where local professional companies will be employed to assemble and maintain the finished vehicles. Three skilled people can put an OX together in approximately 12 hours.
Beyond its revolutionary packaging design and two-wheel-drive all-terrain ability, the OX is full of design innovations. For example, the tailgate does not merely contain the load in the back; it detaches completely from the OX and can be rotated lengthways to double as a loading ramp. The rear bench seat bases also have a dual purpose. The long ‘egg crate’ frames can be removed from the vehicle and used as ‘sand ladders’ under the wheels to help the OX traverse challenging soft ground.
Sir Torquil Norman said: “My inspiration for the OX goes back to seeing the ‘Africar’ project of the 1980s. This project shares some of the aims of that vehicle, but its execution is radically different. OX was just a dream six years ago, but it is now a realistic prospect for production with working prototypes that have completed a comprehensive testing programme.”
Professor Gordon Murray said: “The OX design and prototyping programme is undoubtedly one of the most interesting and challenging I have undertaken during my 45 years of car design, including my years in F1.
“The added challenge of a flat-packed vehicle design over the already tough targets for cost, durability and weight saving made for a fascinating and stimulating journey from concept to prototype.
“The most satisfying elements of the project for me are that the OX will make such a difference to so many people and that it has no competitor in any part of the world. It has been a privilege to work alongside Torquil to make his vision a reality.”
Driving the next stage of development
The global launch of the OX aims to highlight the need for investment and support in order to progress the project to completion. The Global Vehicle Trust believes that the OX project will attract a wide range of interest from potential backers.
Sir Torquil Norman said: “Feedback we have had so far from contacts in Africa and with aid agencies has been very positive. OX is about making a difference now, being part of something ground-breaking and unique. Most of all it presents a real opportunity to make a fundamental and lasting difference to people’s lives.
“Our priority now is to raise the funding to complete the testing and take the project to fruition. We believe that the OX has huge potential for charities, aid organisations and development programmes. My dream is to one day see an OX in every village in Africa.”
Technical specifications – XP3 prototype
Dimensions (mm)
Exterior(mm)
Overall length4,229
Overall width2,070
Overall height2,302
Wheelbase2,560
Track1,795
Weights (kg)
Dry weight1600 kg
Payload capacity1900 kg
Suspension and damping
FrontOXGlide™ leading arms, telescopic dampers and coil springs
RearOXGlide™ trailing arms, telescopic dampers and coil springs
Engine
2.2-litre 16v Diesel
Type4 valves per cylinder
Capacity (cc)2198
Bore x stroke (mm)86.0 x 94.6
Compression ratio17.5:1
Power100 PS at 3,500 rpm
Torque310 Nm at 2,100 rpm
Transmission
Manual, All Synchromesh5 speed + reverse
Steering
TypeRack and pinion
Turning circle11.7m


Brakes

Front300 mm ventilated disc
Rear280 mm solid disc
Wheels and tyres
Wheel sizeTyres - FrontTyres - Rear
x 16-inch205/80 R16205/80 R16
Capacities (litres)
Luggage3,430 (to sides) / 7,000 (maximum)
Fuel tank80

USA RECALL #1 - Mazda recalls various Mazda6 models for possible corrosion on the airbags.

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On August 10, 2016, Mazda Motor Corporation filed a safety defect report with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to address a concern with certain 2009-2010 Mazda6 vehicles.
On the affected Mazda6 vehicles, due to insufficient protective coating on the air bag control unit power supply, moisture could enter the unit and cause corrosion, causing the unit to malfunction and turning on the air bag warning light.

Continued driving in this condition could potentially cause the air bags to not deploy in a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Approximately 41,000 vehicles are affected in the U.S.
There are no reports of accidents or injuries.
Mazda North American Operations is headquartered in Irvine, Calif., and oversees the sales, marketing, parts and customer service support of Mazda vehicles in the United States and Mexico through more than 700 dealers. Operations in Mexico are managed by Mazda Motor de Mexico in Mexico City.

Volvo Cars and Autoliv Inc, the worldwide leader in automotive safety, have signed a letter of intent to set up a new jointly owned company.

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Volvo Cars, the global premium car maker, and Autoliv Inc (NYSE: ALV and SSE: ALIVsdb), the worldwide leader in automotive safety systems, have signed a letter of intent to set up a new jointly owned company to develop next-generation autonomous driving software.
The planned new company will have its headquarters in Gothenburg, Sweden, and an initial workforce taken from both companies of around 200, increasing to more than 600 in the medium term. The company is expected to start operations in the beginning of 2017.

The joint venture will create a new entrant in the growing global market for autonomous driving software systems. It marks the first time a leading premium car maker has joined forces with a tier-one supplier to develop new ADAS and AD technologies.
The new company, which has yet to be named, will develop advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) and autonomous drive (AD) systems for use in Volvo cars and for sale exclusively by Autoliv to all car makers globally, with revenues shared by both companies.
The joint venture will bring together two global leaders in automotive safety, underlining the contribution ADAS and AD can make to road safety, and speeding up the development and introduction of fully autonomous cars.
Volvo Cars has an established reputation for making some of the world’s safest cars, having invented the three-point safety belt and having consistently developed and introduced world-leading active and passive safety systems. It has a medium-term vision that no one will be killed or seriously injured in a new Volvo by 2020.
Autoliv is the world’s leading supplier of safety systems to car makers worldwide, and has led the way in the development and introduction of active and passive safety technologies to the world’s car makers for more than 60 years.
Håkan Samuelsson, president and chief executive of Volvo Cars, said: “By combining our know-how and resources, we will create a world leader in AD software development. This means we can introduce this exciting technology to our customers faster.”
Jan Carlson, chairman, chief executive and president of Autoliv, said: “There are no two companies that can claim to have done more for automotive safety worldwide than Autoliv and Volvo. This new company is a recognition of the fact that autonomous driving is the next step to transform road safety.”
Both Autoliv and Volvo Cars will licence and transfer the intellectual property for their ADAS systems to the joint venture. From this base, the company will develop new ADAS technologies and AD systems. It expects to have its first ADAS products available for sale by 2019, with AD technologies available by 2021.
Autoliv will be the exclusive supplier and distribution channel for all the new company’s products towards third parties, except Volvo Cars, which will source directly from the new company. Its management will comprise of representatives from Autoliv and Volvo Cars.
Dennis Nobelius, managing director of Volvo Switzerland and formerly vice president vehicle line 90 at Volvo Cars, will be the chief executive of the new joint venture.

America's luxury brand, Cadillac, continues to grow with new models and better technology

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  • SALES SURGE MORE THAN 20 PERCENT FOR THE SECOND CONSECUTIVE MONTH
Cadillac sold 28,228 new vehicles globally in August, an increase of 23.7 percent. August marked the second consecutive month in which Cadillac global growth exceeded 20 percent, driven by the new XT5 crossover.
In August, Cadillac’s U.S. sales rose 3.9 percent, while sales in China soared 93.4 percent. Year to date, Cadillac global sales are up 4.5 percent.

The new XT5 sold 8,523 units in August, the most since its launch this past spring. Sales of Cadillac’s sporty ATS sedan and coupe models grew 18.4 percent globally. The XTS sedan registered a 52.9 percent increase.
In the U.S., the brand experienced volume growth while continuing to earn a premium position in the marketplace. Cadillac average transaction prices topped $53,000 per unit (according to J.D. Power Information Network), the highest among full-line luxury brands.
“We are seeing consistent progress on our mission to grow global volume while simultaneously building brand prestige,” said Cadillac President Johan de Nysschen. “Product substance is the foundation of our disciplined approach to global expansion.”
Cadillac sales in key regions appear in the table below. 
GLOBAL SALES BY PRODUCT LINE

Aug-16
Aug-15
% Change
YTD-16
YTD-15
% Change
ATS
6,046
5,107
18.4
36,987
37,808
(2.2)
CTS
1,722
1,990
(13.5)
12,715
14,974
(15.1)
ELR
6
46
(87)
528
728
(27.5)
XTS
4,831
3,159
52.9
33,179
30,828
7.6
CT6
1,870
0
NEW
6,695
0
NEW
SRX
1,704
9,051
(81.2)
36,678
63,746
(42.5)
XT5
8,523
0
NEW
19,51128,013
0
NEW
Escalade
3,526
3,457
2
27,393
26,311
4.1
Other
0
1
 -
0
15
-
Total
28,228
22,811
23.7
182,188
174,410
4.5
SALES BY COUNTRY

Aug-16
Aug-15
 % Change
YTD-16
YTD-15
% Change
United States
16,346
15.738
3.9
103,918
110,791
(6.2)
China*
9,914
5,126
93.4
64,489
49,186
31.1
Canada
1,160
1,240
(6.5)
7,487
7,760
(3.5)
Middle East
295
315
(6.3)
2,668
3,454
(22.8)
Mexico
157
117
34.2
1,127
1,111
1.4
EU** & Russia
138
113
22.1
1281
959
33.6
South Korea
147
90
63.3
601
488
23.2
ROW
71
72
(1.4)
617
661
(6.7)
Total
28,228
22,811
23.7
182,188
174,410
4.5

One of Land Rover’s best-known customers completes unique remote test of New Discovery.

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  • One of Land Rover’s best-known customers completes unique remote test of New Discovery
  • World-renowned British adventurer Bear Grylls experiences Land Rover’s world-first seat folding technology
  • Intelligent Seat Fold system allows owners to reconfigure their vehicle seating remotely with a smartphone from anywhere in the world – even in mid-air
  • Unique test sees Bear change the seating layout during a 125mph skydiving descent; 
  • Seven full-size seats accommodate Bear and 6 fellow skydivers in comfort
  • New Discovery world premiere: 28 September 2016 ahead of Paris Motor Show

Land Rover has reached new heights in its new vehicle technology testing.
World-renowned British adventurer and well-known Land Rover owner Bear Grylls took to the skies to put the New Discovery’s Intelligent Seat Fold technology to the ultimate test. 
The system allows Discovery owners to configure their vehicle seating through the InControl Remote app on their smartphone from anywhere in the world - even in mid-air.


Having jumped from a plane with six members of the Royal Navy Parachute Display Team and freefalling at 125mph, Bear was able to change the vehicle’s seating layout at the touch of a button on his smartphone before he had to deploy his parachute.
Once on the ground all the skydivers were able to jump into a camouflaged prototype of the New Discovery, which comfortably seats seven full-sized adults.
The world-first Intelligent Seat Fold technology allows the two rear rows of seats to be fully reconfigured in as little as 14 seconds via the InControl Remote app downloaded on any iOS or Androidoperating system.
Bear Grylls said: “Land Rover is proving why the New Discovery is the ultimate family SUV. The fact that they have created this world-first Intelligent Seat Fold technology is impressive in itself and for the remote function to work while we are freefalling from a plane is pretty cool!
“I’m not sure many people will be using it in such a manner but the technology to operate the car remotely in this way will undoubtedly be a real winner for busy families who want to be prepared.”
Alex Heslop, Land Rover’s Chief Engineer for Discovery, said: “This unique feature sets the New Discovery apart from any other vehicle. The fact that owners can change the seating while doing things like queuing with their shopping is a true milestone in convenience delivered through technological innovation.”
The Intelligent Seat Fold technology can be activated in four different ways, including the remote function tried and tested by Bear Grylls. Closer to the ground, switches within the luggage area and on the C-pillar allow the seats to be moved or folded while standing beside the vehicle. Row two and three seats can also be raised and lowered using the main touchscreen display on the dashboard.
Land Rover’s InControl Remote app allows customers using both iOS and Android smartphones to connect with New Discovery from anywhere in the world, making it possible to perform a variety of functions. From confirming all the windows are closed or checking the fuel level to setting the air conditioning or monitoring its location, the advanced technology brings new levels of customer convenience and connectivity to the premium SUV market.

Peugeot is pushing ahead with growth plans in Chin and Asia, the new 4008 SUV is the start of 1 Million units per year by 2018.

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  • A plant opened as part of the Push to Pass strategy for profitable growth, which will see 20 new launches in China and Southeast Asia by 2021
  • A plant dedicated to the production of SUVs, a fast-growing segment in China
  • Capacity to build 300,000 vehicles a year, in line with the target of selling one million vehicles in China and Southeast Asia in 2018
  • The Peugeot 4008 will be the first vehicle produced
As part of the implementation of the Push to Pass plan and to support the China & Southeast Asia region's goal of selling one million vehicles in 2018, DPCA today inaugurated its fourth assembly plant in Chengdu, China.
The ceremony was attended by Carlos Tavares, Chairman of the Managing Board of the PSA Group; Zhu Yanfeng, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Dongfeng Motor Corporation; Denis Martin, the PSA Group's Executive Vice-President, China and ASEAN; Liu Weidong, Chief Operating Officer of Dongfeng Motor Corporation; Su Weibin, General Manager of DPCA; Jean Christophe Marchal, Executive Vice-President of DPCA and representatives of Sichuan province and the municipality of Chengdu.


The fourth DPCA plant will manufacture vehicles for the Dongfeng Peugeot, Dongfeng Citroën and Dongfeng Fengshen brands on the PSA Group's EMP2 platform, primarily in the SUV segment. Production will begin with the new Peugeot 4008 SUV, which is scheduled for launch in November 2016. Following a gain of 53% in 2015, the SUV segment continued to expand rapidly in first-half 2016, with 44% growth. It currently accounts for 38.8% of the Chinese market. As a whole, the Chinese auto market offers great potential. Car ownership stands at 75 vehicles per 1,000 inhabitants, and the country recently overtook the United States to become home to the world's largest middle class, which represented 110 million people at end-2015. This figure is forecast to double to 220 million by 2022.
Leveraging the best practices of PSA and Dongfeng Motor (DFM), DPCA built the plant in two years according to the highest industry standards. The world-class facility uses a flexible manufacturing system that enables close cooperation with suppliers, while adhering to the most stringent environmental principles.
In addition to the CAPSA plant in Shenzen, which manufactures DS models, DPCA's production base now comprises four assembly plants: three in Wuhan, in Hubei province, and one in Chengdu, in Sichuan province. With this new facility and DPCA's latest 5A+ medium-term plan unveiled on 11 May, the PSA Group and DFM have demonstrated their commitment to strengthening their strategic partnership in order to satisfy the needs of the Chinese market. The two partners are pursuing three clear-cut objectives for improving the joint venture's financial performance:
  • Significantly increasing customer satisfaction with products and services to become one of the top three in the industry by 2018 and No. 1 by 2020
  • Generating revenue in excess of RMB 100 billion by 2020
  • Achieving profitable, sustainable growth underpinned by productivity gains of 30% by 2020
During the ceremony, Carlos Tavares said: "This new plant will help us to expand our vehicle range in the fast-growing SUV segment and meet the needs of our Chinese customers. It represents an important step in implementing our Push to Pass plan and achieving our objective to launch 20 new models in China by 2021 and sell over one million vehicles in the region by 2018."

An all new bespoke car designed, engineered and built in the UK for children aged 5-10.

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The world’s first electric car specially developed for five to 10 year olds is officially unveiled today – with the name Firefly.
Designed, engineered and manufactured in the UK, Firefly is the brainchild of Young Driver Motor Cars Limited, a division of Young Driver, the UK’s largest provider of pre-17 driving lessons. While Young Driver already offers lessons for youngsters aged 10 – 17 it became clear that there was currently nothing suitable for those aged under 10 to drive. 
When searches revealed there were only ‘toys’ available, typically for under fives, Young Driver recruited a team of UK automotive experts with the mission to design and manufacture a properly engineered small electric car. 

The first two-seater Firefly cars were revealed in pre-production prototype form in April at the Gadget Show Live, when over 1,000 youngsters put the four prototypes through their paces. Since then, the company has continued to develop, test and refine Firefly, working with leading designers and tier one UK automotive suppliers to create the finished product which handles and drives like a full-sized car.
The Firefly technical spec includes hydraulic disc brakes, rack and pinion steering, independent suspension, an electronic tablet based dashboard and an eye catching body styled by veteran car designer, Chris Johnson. Chris has over 30 years’ experience in automotive design working for manufacturers including Rover, Jaguar, Ford and Volvo.
Firefly is powered by a state of the art electric drive train featuring twin electric motors enabling a top speed restricted to 10mph. The car can, however, be set to a Junior or Experienced mode. 
An innovative (patent pending) and optional safety system uses sensors to detect obstacles in time to bring the car to a halt when it is operating in the Junior mode, which also limits speed to 5mph. 
Working in forward or reverse modes, this is supplemented by a remote control switch which enables adults to stop the car from up to 120 metres away in case of an emergency. 
The automatic sensors and 5mph speed limit are deactivated in the Experienced mode, but the remote control is still operational.
The driver’s seat can be adjusted, allowing most youngsters aged from five to 10 to reach the pedals. An adult of up to 6ft can also drive, or be a passenger within the vehicle.
Firefly’s features include:
  • Independent suspension
  • Top speed of 10 mph
  • Adjustable driver’s seat
  • Fixed passenger seat
  • Hydraulic disc brakes, accelerator and forward/reverse control
  • Indicators and side repeaters
  • LED headlights and tail lights
  • Twin electric motors with up to 9-hour continual operation capability
  • Twin 12v batteries with 240v charger
  • Tablet based instruments including speedometer, clock and power reserve indicator
  • Lockable Junior and Experienced mode options with Junior mode restricted to speed of 5mph
  • Unique and patented safety system that brings the car to a halt before collision (in reverse or forward drive) whilst in Junior mode
  • The ability to stop the car by remote control from 120 metres
  • CE certification in progress
  • Range of options and accessories including bespoke paint colours and combinations, individual badging and instruments, upholstered leather seats and steering wheel, wireless tyre pressure indicators and in-car audio
  • GRP or carbon fibre body
The creation of Firefly means that Young Driver can now offer lessons specifically developed for this younger age group. Lessons in the Firefly will be available through Young Driver at selected venues in the UK in Autumn. The price of a 20 minute lesson (inclusive of a 5 minute briefing period) will be £19.95.
Whilst the product was initially developed for use by Young Driver, it will also be available for purchase worldwide by members of the general public from 2017 with a price tag in the region of £5,750 + VAT.
Kim Stanton, who heads up Young Driver, said: “We are delighted to be officially launching Young Driver Motor Car’s first electric car aimed at five to 10 year olds - Firefly. It has taken over a year to come together and involved the hard work of many talented and experienced people from the UK’s vibrant and successful automotive industry. 
We were surprised that nothing existed for this age range other than plastic toys, and it felt like we had to take up the challenge and run with it! Firefly is something very special, it’s a real car in its own right, designed, engineered and manufactured in the Midlands, Great Britain – home of the car industry. 
We know that youngsters will enjoy driving it and that through this they will learn about road safety, finding out about the basics of driving and gaining a better understanding of how it feels to be behind the wheel. 
That can only be of benefit when it comes to them being pedestrians, cyclists and future motorists out there on the roads.”

Peugeot to officially unveil the All-New Peugeot 5008 SUV at the 2016 Paris Motor Show.

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  • All-new PEUGEOT 5008 SUV combines many product attributes in one very capable vehicle
  • Arriving in the UK in Spring 2017 it aims to be a serious contender in the SUV C Segment
  • Features the new digital PEUGEOT i-Cockpit, low CO2 engines, extensive features and options
The all-new PEUGEOT 5008 breaks new ground as a large seven-seater SUV in the C segment. As a new contender in this growing consumer market, it boasts many strengths. The all-new PEUGEOT 5008 SUV includes the latest digital version of the outstanding PEUGEOT i-Cockpit®, Efficient Modular Platform 2 (EMP2), and a plethora of high-tech features that enhance comfort and safety. 
Behind the elegant, dynamic design lies a superbly practical vehicle. With seven seats, the new PEUGEOT 5008 is the first SUV to offer modularity on a par with that of the best people-carriers. 
A range of powerful, efficient engines and designs - including sporty GT Line and GT versions - is available for the all-new PEUGEOT 5008 SUV, to be unveiled at the next 2016 Paris Motor Show in September before its launch in Spring 2017.
The all-new PEUGEOT i-Cockpit® elevates the passenger compartment.


Inside, the driver’s environment is unique with the newest version of the innovative, almost futuristic -PEUGEOT i-Cockpit®, which offers vehicle occupants a novel driving experience that both surprises and delights. With its compact steering wheel, a large 8” touchscreen dashboard and a spectacular 12.3” high-resolution digital head-up display, the new PEUGEOT i-Cockpit® impresses drivers with its superior graphics and  elegant animations.

Spacious interior and with more functions

The 2.84m wheelbase of the new 5008 SUV makes it the most liveable of C-segment SUVs. The overall length of the vehicle (4.64m) remains compact as the new PEUGEOT 5008 SUV - though 19cm longer than the all-new PEUGEOT 3008 SUV and 11cm longer than the original 5008 - is still one of the most conservatively proportioned and its extra length makes it roomier for passengers.

The vehicle’s optimisedarchitecture is only part of the package on offer. The new PEUGEOT 5008 is more than just an SUV. It stands out in the market with an innovative configuration:
  • Three matching, separate, folding seats in the second row, adjustable in length and inclination
  • Two removable, separate, folding seats in the third row.
  • The biggest boot capacity with 780 dm3 VDA 210 (1060 litres)
The all-new PEUGEOT 5008 SUV can also have foldable front passenger seat (to carry especially long loads up to 3.20m) and a practical hands-free motorised tailgate.
An SUV with an imposing exterior

One look will recognise that the all-new PEUGEOT 5008 is a real SUV. All the hallmarks are there: long, horizontal bonnet; vertical face; and raised body line. The inspired design conveys power and respect. Its height remains the same (1.64m with roof bars – standard on all models).

This gives it a long and dynamic profile. At the front, the wide grille with chrome fins is exclusive, while the rear design features the gloss black strip and the signature LED ‘claw effect’ rear lights that set the latest breed of PEUGEOT SUVs apart.
Driving and travelling pleasure that rivals the best touring vehicles
The all-new 5008 SUV, the 308 and the all-new 3008 SUV all feature the Efficient Modular Platform 2 (EMP2) and the very latest Euro 6.1 powertrains. Whether the choice is petrol or diesel, all versions stand out above their competitors with engines of the same power class. CO2 emissions are as low as 117g/km for petrol and only 108g/km for diesel (UK specification vehicles).

This new PEUGEOT is an invitation to travel-in luxury, not least because it has excellent sound insulation and a number of features for the comfort of all on board: body-hugging front seats feature an optional multipoint massage system, FOCAL® Premium Hi-Fi system, large panoramic opening glass roof etc. It proposes also the best in permanent connectivity with the Mirror Screen function and 3D connected navigation system (with TomTom® Traffic).
Cutting-edge Advanced Driver Assistance Systems make driving even safer with an arsenal of safety features: Advanced Grip Control - including new exclusive Hill Assist Descent Control (HADC), Automatic Emergency Braking System (AEBS), Distance Alert, Active Lane Keeping Assistance (LKA), Driver attention warning, Smart Beam Assistance, Speed sign recognition and speed suggestion, Adaptive cruise control with stop feature (automatic gearbox), Active blind spot monitoring, Park Assist and Visio Park (360° vision)
The all-new PEUGEOT 5008 SUV is also providing innovative mobility solutions for today’s world by giving the opportunity to integrate in its boot the e-Kick, a very smart electrically assisted folding scooter, or the e-Bike eF01, a new electrically assisted portable bicycle. e-Kick and e-Bike both have a mobile charging dockstation.
A superior range of vehicles made in France
The all-new PEUGEOT 5008 SUV range includes four trim levels – two mainstream versions (Active, Allure) plus GT Line and GT versions. Manufactured in Rennes, France, the all-new PEUGEOT 5008 SUV is unveiled at the 2016 Paris Motor Show and on sale in the UK from Spring 2017.

A look at the SEAT 600 and the SEAT Ibiza to compare how car safety has changed in 60 years

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60 years of evolution
  • A look at the SEAT 600 and the SEAT Ibiza to compare how car safety has changed in 60 years
  • New brake systems, more elements of passive safety and chassis development are the most significant breakthroughs of recent decades 
  • The next step is to get cars to anticipate future events and try to prevent them
A lot can happen in 60 years, and when it comes to safety that’s a long time for cars to evolve. In terms of safety, and several other topics, cars today bear little resemblance to those of yesteryear. To illustrate this we can compare a 1963 SEAT 600 D to the SEAT Ibiza FR with the following results:
- Airbags and headrests. “The SEAT 600 wasn’t equipped with headrests,” recalls Javier Luzón, head of Passive Safety at SEAT. This feature makes a significant contribution to preventing whiplash when the car is involved in a low speed collision from the rear. In addition, whereas some SEAT Ibizas have up to six airbags, the SEAT 600 had none, because that technology did not become widespread until the 90s.

- Seat belt. It was developed in the 60s. But in the beginning it was “an inextensible strap that users had to adjust to their body,” explains Luzón. The difference today is that this element of passive safety adapts itself to the user’s body and not the other way round. This provides more safety in the event of a collision, as the current seat belt system fits snugly on the body and retains the passenger instantly.
- Brakes. The brake system on both models is also completely different. The SEAT 600 was equipped with drum brakes “with much lower braking power than what can be achieved today,” says Luzón. By contrast, current cars “have large diameter disc brakes,” tyres are also much wider, “giving them more contact surface with the road for safer traction,” and the cars feature ABS, a system that prevents cars from skidding out of control when braking.


- Chassis. A car’s chassis is another fundamental component when it comes to safety, and its evolution over the past several decades can clearly be seen. One major difference is the greater width of the structures, such as the doors, which nowadays “have added safety features that give better protection than before in the event of a collision.”

All in all, today’s cars offer the highest level of passenger safety. “The next step we will soon see involves cars with the ability to anticipate future events and react accordingly,” concludes Javier Luzón. This will be the beginning of a new era with technology that was unheard of at the time of the legendary 600.

Global vote sees The Classic & Sports Car Show’s ‘A Century of Supercars’ poll narrowed down to 11 finalists

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  • Global vote sees The Classic & Sports Car Show’s ‘A Century of Supercars’ poll narrowed down to 11 finalists
  • Icons such as the Ferrari F40, Bugatti Veyron, Lamborghini Miura and McLaren F1 are in the running, and all 11 will be on display at Alexandra Palace from 28th – 30thOctober
  • Next stage is a second public vote, with the winner, the ‘greatest supercar ever’, announced at this year’s show
  • To vote for the ultimate supercar and buy tickets, head to http://www.classicandsportscarshow.com
The shortlist for The Classic & Sports Car Show’s ‘A Century of Supercars’ global poll has been confirmed, with 33 of the world’s fastest and most pioneering speed machines whittled down to 11 thanks to over 17,000 votes by members of the public.
Supercar enthusiasts have been flocking online since June to vote for their favourite cars from 11 different eras, ranging from pre-1914 models all the way to modern machines built after 2010.
 
And now the public must decide which of the 11 cars will be crowned the greatest supercar ever at The Classic & Sports Car Show, held at Alexandra Palace from 28th-30th October.
Some truly iconic names make up the shortlist, including the Ferrari F40, McLaren F1 and Alfa Romeo 8C. Here are the contenders looking to be crowned at Alexandra Palace:
Up to 1914
Mercedes 1908 GP

1914-1929 
Bentley 41/2-litre Blower

1930s
Alfa Romeo 8C

1940s
Jaguar XK120

1950s
Mercedes 300SL ‘Gullwing’

1960s
Lamborghini Miura

1970s
Lamborghini Countach

1980s
Ferrari F40

1990s
McLaren F1

2000s
Bugatti Veyron

2010s
McLaren P1

All finalists came through era-related category battles to make the shortlist, with voters choosing between three different models from every given generation.
The Bentley 41/2-litre Blower emerged from a particularly gruelling tussle with the Bugatti Type 43 and Mercedes-Benz SSK, taking 50 per cent of the votes in the 1914-1929 category. The McLaren F1 had no such trouble in its 1990s showdown with the Jaguar XJ220 and Bugatti EB110, though, with 80 per cent of voters putting it through.
Voting for the overall winner takes place throughout September ahead of the event, where all finalists will be on show in all their glory. The greatest supercar of all time will then be revealed in a spectacular multi-million-pound display.
To vote, visit www.classicandsportscarshow.com/supercars and pick the car you think deserves the crown. Everyone who votes will be entered into a draw to win a pair of places on the VIP show tour.


James Elliott, Classic & Sports Car Group Editor: “Over 17,000 votes were cast for the cars in our shortlist, and it’s safe to say the public did a good job – the 11 finalists are truly spectacular. Indeed, there’s a strong case for each and every one of them to take home the ‘Century of Supercars’ title, but there can only be one winner.



“Our‘Century of Supercars’ feature is sure to be a crowd-pleaser for visitors of all ages, and I can’t wait to see which of these impressive supercars comes out on top.”

The Classic & Sports Car Show in 2016 will feature more than 300 of the world’s most prestigious classic cars from world-famous collectors and world-renowned classic car retailers. The event will also feature an auction from Coys, live restoration by a team of specialists from Classic Motor Cars (CMC) of a unique Jaguar XK120 by Pininfarina and a Live Interview Stage in partnership with Goodwood Road & Racing.

The new generation Hyundai i30, tested on the Nurburgring, driven by you.

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 01 Introduction: A Car for Everyone: The New Generation Hyundai i30
  • The New Generation i30 is the DNA car for Hyundai Motor
  • Coherent and timeless design with a perfect fit for everyone’s needs: sporty, practical, elegant
  • Designed, developed, tested and manufactured in Europe to offer customers highest value
  • The most active safety features compared to any other Hyundai vehicle
  • The first Hyundai worldwide to feature the 1.4 T-GDI with 140 PS
  • State-of-the-art connectivity and infotainment features that today’s customers expect
The New Generation Hyundai i30 is the DNA car for Hyundai Motor representing the core of the Hyundai brand in Europe. Hyundai Motor sets a new milestone and shifts customer perception of Hyundai as a brand that is European at heart. 
Available in early 2017, the New Generation i30 is Hyundai Motor’s answer to changing contemporary values and customer attitudes on technology driven solutions, individuality in style and flexibility.
“We have listened closely to customer needs in redefining our offer to create a car for everyone. 
It’s the new people’s car: Accessible, appealing in design and great to drive,” comments Jochen Sengpiehl, Vice President Marketing at Hyundai Motor Europe. “With up-to-date infotainment and connectivity features we offer everything today’s digital natives and modern customers expect.”

The New Generation i30 is a smart choice for those seeking an appealing design, high build quality, an efficient and dynamic ride and a state-of-the-art safety package. The new i30 comes with more active safety features than any other Hyundai vehicle and its long-term reliability is guaranteed by the unique and industry-leading 5-year unlimited mileage warranty.
“To create a car for everyone, we focused on a wide range of different people,” explains Peter Schreyer, President and Chief Design Officer of Hyundai Motor Group, “So the design is an evolution of Hyundai Motor’s design language with natural flowing lines, refined surfaces and a sculpted body to create a timeless appearance.”
A comfortable and dynamic driving experience with a large choice of efficient and dynamic powertrains, the New Generation i30 supports very agile and responsive handling and is the first Hyundai car to feature the new turbo-charged petrol engine, the 1.4 T-GDI with 140 PS.
A Family of Cars
The New Generation i30 is more than just one model. It will become a family of unique products united by a timeless and balanced design perfectly harmonised and coherent for every body type. The New Generation i30 family will feature the first high performance model under Hyundai Motor’s N brand which will go into production in 2017.
The European Success Story: Hyundai Motor’s DNA Car for Europe
Hyundai Motor is still a young brand in Europe. About 25 years ago, in the 1990s the company entered the European market with affordable and practical cars that customers mainly bought for their price. Those days are over. Adapting to customer demands quickly, leading to fast sales growth, Hyundai Motor now aims to become the number one Asian car brand in Europe.
This strategy began when Hyundai Motor built up its European operations in order to fully adapt its business to the European market by opening production facilities in Turkey in 1997 and the Czech Republic in 2008. 
These two factories alone have a total production capacity of more than 500,000 cars per year. They fulfil the highest quality standards to meet European customers’ expectations, enabling Hyundai Motor to deliver an industry-leading peace of mind package: a 5-year unlimited mileage warranty.
Further evidence of Hyundai Motor’s commitment to the European market and the company’s focus on European customers in terms of style, technology and driving performance is the European R&D and Design Centre. 
It began in 1995 with two people tuning cars and giving feedback on the preferences of European customers to the global headquarters in Korea. In 2003, a new centre for design and engineering was opened in Rüsselsheim which strengthened operations and now employs more than 300 employees.
Ten years later, in 2013, Hyundai Motor took the next step in opening the largest testing centre on the Nürburgring to fully assess the quality, durability and performance of Hyundai vehicles. 
Accelerated and outstanding durability testing with the new 1.4 T-GDI alone over a distance of 10,000 km at 95% of limit on the Nürburgring corresponded to 150,000 kilometres on public roads in regular usage. Since its opening, Hyundai Motor has tested 40 cars over 20,000 laps on the Nordschleife, resulting in 416,000 kilometres and equalling 6.25 million kilometres of customer usage.
The stronger focus on European preferences has paid off. Design is the number one buying reason for the second-generation i30 (about 400,000 cars sold in Europe up to now) and is consistently the top reason why European customers choose to buy Hyundai.

Today, Hyundai Motor sells cars in 31 European countries through 2,500 outlets. 90% of the vehicles Hyundai Motor sells in Europe are models designed, engineered, tested and manufactured in Europe to meet the needs of European customers.

Coherent and Timeless Design
The New Generation i30 further evolves Hyundai’s design language with natural flowing lines, refined surfaces and a sculpted body to create a timeless and confident appearance. Hyundai Motor is introducing a new design element: the Cascading Grille, which will become the new family identity for Hyundai models in the future. The New Generation i30 features a balanced and coherent design emphasised through the horizontal character line on the exterior combined with the horizontal layout in the interior.
Exterior Design
The front of the new Generation i30 is confident and expressive, creating a recognisable presence on the road. The new Cascading Grille has a powerful downward tapering gesture inspired by the momentous flow of poured molten steel. 
The grille features chrome-plated dots for a sophisticated appearance enhancing the satin chrome surrounding of the standard version. In combination with the three-projector full LED (low and high beam) headlamps and the LED vertical daytime running lights with indicator function, the New Generation i30 has a strong visual presence. 
To further enhance this projector-type front, fog lamps are integrated into the air curtains.
With its harmonious proportions, short front and rear overhangs, a long bonnet with a moved back A pillar, the car has a dynamic and compact stance on the road. 
The New Generation i30 features a sophisticated sleek character line that flows very naturally from the headlamp along the almost horizontal belt line to connect with LED rear lamps and further wraps around the rear for a timeless and dynamic appearance. 
The slightly sloping roofline and the black rear spoiler make the New Generation i30 look even more dynamic and compact. The sleek design is also reflected in the aerodynamics of the New Generation i30 with a Coefficient of Drag of only 0.30. 
Aerodynamics are enhanced through several measures including an Active Air Flap in front to optimise cooling and and improve aerodynamics.
Its strong rear end design with a sculpted and 3-dimensional appearance featuring a signature light graphic incorporating the high-positioned reflectors and fog lamps sets the car apart on the road. The New Generation Hyundai i30 is available with 17-inch two tone 10-spoke alloy wheels, 16-inch two-tone 10-spoke alloy wheels or 15-inch steel and alloy wheels.
It will be available in twelve exterior colours consisting of three pearl choices: Stargazing Blue, Micron Gray, Phantom Black; and seven metallic choices: Demitasse Brown, Intense Copper, Moon Rock, Fiery Red, Platinum Sliver, Ara Blue and White Sand plus two solid choices: Engine Red and Polar White. (Subject to market specification)
Interior Design
The interior is clear and intuitive with a horizontal layout that conveys an impression of elegance and a feeling of roominess. 
The floating screen of the optional eight-inch navigation touch screen on the dashboard integrates all navigation, media and connectivity features and allows drivers to stay always tuned to the traffic ahead thanks to its ergonomic position. 
The new multifunction three-spoke steering wheel allows easy and intuitive operation of all functions through an ergonomically positioned operation controls and can be heated for enhanced comfort. 
The climate and temperature control is positioned conveniently in the centre console and can be easily operated through the dials without distracting the driver.
The New Generation i30 offers plenty of space for passengers and luggage alike and does not compromise on interior roominess for its sporty exterior design. The i30 makes driving comfortable for all passengers with segment-leading roominess. 
The feeling of space is enhanced by the optional panoramic glass sunroof which allows to tilt or to slide open. While driving the armrest can slides forward for the most comfortable position and may also be opened to access additional storage possibilities underneath. 
To enable customers to carry everything they need, the New Generation i30 offers generous luggage capacity of up to 395 litres (VDA 211) with a practical two-stage luggage board and a ski hatch in the rear centre seat.
For the interior, customers can choose from three colour options: Oceanids black with two different cloth seat options or black leather seats, a two tone combination of Slate Grey and Oceanids black with cloth or leather seats featuring diamond pattern or the two tone combination of elegant Indigo Blue and Oceanids Black with leather seats.
The driver’s seat comes with a memory seat function with two programmable seat positions.
02.         Driving Performance
Choice of Powertrains
The New Generation i30 is powered by a range of small-displacement turbo charged petrol and diesel engines delivering a dynamic and efficient driving experience. 
There are three petrol engines and one diesel engine. Customers can choose between the new 1.4 T-GDI turbocharged four cylinder engine – a Hyundai first - with 140 PS, the 1.0 T-GDI turbocharged three cylinder engine with 120 PS or the 1.4 MPI four cylinder with 100 PS and one diesel engine: the 1.6-litre turbocharged four-cylinder diesel engine, available with three power outputs: 95, 110 and 133 PS. CO2 emissions starting from as low as 89g CO2/km (target values). 
Mated to the engines is either the six-speed manual transmission (6MT) or Hyundai’s efficient and direct-responding seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (7DCT).
New 1.4 T-GDI – Light, Frugal and Fun to Drive
The 1,353 cc four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine is significantly lighter than its predecessor, the Gamma 1.4-litre engine. The unit’s base weight has been reduced by 14 kg and it also boasts greater efficiency and power, delivering 140 PS and 242 Nm of torque.
The new engine incorporates a high-pressure single-scroll turbocharger integrated in the exhaust manifold to improve operational efficiency. The relocated and re-engineered turbo means throttle response time and low-end torque have improved. The new design injects fuel directly inside the cylinder, improving combustion rates for better power and fuel efficiency.
The new, turbocharged 1.4-litre T-GDI petrol engine is offered with the 6MT or the 7DCT, which gives a choice of fully automatic operation or manual gear changes.
The 1.0 T-GDI – Three-Cylinder Dynamism
The 1.0 T-GDI engine, developed by the Namyang Technical Centre in Korea in collaboration with the European Technical Centre in Germany, with 120 PS and 170 Nm provides a perfect combination of dynamism and efficiency.
A turbocharger with an electronically-controlled waste-gate actuator improves fuel efficiency by lowering pumping losses as well as improving throttle response and low-end torque. The unit features a six-hole GDI injector, pressured to a higher-than-average 200 bar, securing a clean combustion and improving fuel economy and emissions.
To keep the engine unit as small as possible, the exhaust manifold is integrated in the cylinder head and can therefore be cooled efficiently using the cylinder head water-cooling system. These efforts result in faster warm-up of the catalyst and ultimately in improved real-world fuel consumption and emissions.
The 1.0 T-GDI is offered with the 6MT.
1.6-litre Turbo Diesel: One Engine, Three Outputs
For customers looking for a diesel engine, the New Generation Hyundai i30 is offered with a 1.6-litre turbocharged four-cylinder turbo engine with three outputs: the ‘standard power’ version with 95 PS, the ‘mid power’ version with 110 PS and the ‘high power’ version with 133 PS, delivering a maximum torque of 275 Nm. Both the mid power and high power version can be selected with the 6MT or 7DCT.
The Seven-Speed Dual-Clutch Transmission
Hyundai Motor introduced its first seven-speed double-clutch transmission in 2015, combining the benefits of automated and manual transmissions. The 7DCT provides an improvement in fuel consumption and CO2emissions of up to 20% compared to a conventional six-gear automated transmission, while acceleration performance could be increased by up to 10%.
The 7DCT consists of two dry clutches and an actuator for each clutch. Engine power is transferred independently into the odd and even gear train to always be ready to shift into the next gear without any torque interruption. For optimised responsiveness the electric motor-driven actuator is applied, while external dampers improve the noise, vibration and harshness during driving
Ride and Handling
The New Generation i30 has been developed and tested in Europe performing accelerated durability tests and dynamic testing on the most demanding race track in the world, the famous Nürburgring Nordschleife, as well as undergoing rigorous public-road testing throughout Europe from the coldest winter testing conditions in Sweden to trailer testing in the Alps and hot weather testing in the south of Spain to ensure that the high expectations of European customers are met.
The development engineers have defined the characteristics of the New Generation i30; precise, natural and connected steering; agile, responsive and predictable handling; a dynamic ride without compromising comfort with good body control. Compared to its predecessor the steering is 10% more direct and the vehicle response is 15 milliseconds faster.
The new chassis of the New Generation i30 has been completely reworked to provide a dynamic and compliant driving experience with high levels of ride comfort. Contributing to this is the standard multi-link rear suspension for all versions with a dual lower arm and the performance-oriented shock absorbers.
Braking performance is optimised by an increased brake diameter size to 288 mm in the front allowing the driver to apply a stronger braking force especially in hot wheel conditions.
Strong and Lightweight Body: 53% Advanced High-Strength Steel
Hyundai Motor is the only car manufacturer to make its own steel for the production of its vehicles globally with great benefits for the New Generation i30 featuring a strong and light body that enhances the dynamic performance and increases passenger safety.
The quantity of Advanced High Strength Steel has almost doubled to 53% while at the same time reducing the weight of the body-in-white by 28 kg and increasing rigidity by 22% in comparison to its predecessor. In production, the structural adhesives length has been increased to 112 m, improving stiffness while reducing weight.
03.         Connected and Caring
Smart connectivity features that most customers require make the New Generation i30 a smart, rewarding choice. Customers can choose between the standard premium audio system with a five-inch capacitive LCD touch screen with integrated dynamic rear-view camera, Bluetooth connectivity and My Music functionality or the optional new generation navigation system with an eight-inch capacitive touch screen. 
For drivers who want to connect their smartphones with the eight-inch navigation system the New Generation i30 provides both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Both systems enable users to connect their devices to deliver and control music, telephone or navigation functions on-screen. Seamless connectivity allows drivers and passengers to stay connected while remaining focused on the road. To ensure that occupants’ phones are always charged, the New Generation i30 also offers a wireless inductive charging pad (Qi standard) for mobile phones and a USB port located in the closed centre console.
The new navigation system comes with a seven-year free subscription to TomTom LIVE services. TomTom LIVE offers updated information in real time: weather, traffic, speed cameras and online searches for points of interest. The navigation system features 3D maps and is capable to display photos if you connect an USB stick.
Highest Active Safety
The New Generation i30 features the latest active safety features to comply with the highest European safety standards: Autonomous Emergency Braking with Front Collision Warning System, Smart Cruise Control, Blind Spot Detection, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Keeping Assist System, Speed Limit Information Function and High Beam Assist. New to the Hyundai line-up is the Driver Attention Alert giving the New Generation i30 all available active safety features available for Hyundai Motor vehicles and making it the car with the most advanced safety package.
Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB)
The i30 is also fitted with AEB including Front Collision Warning System (FCWS), an advanced active safety feature that alerts drivers to emergency situations, braking autonomously if required. Using front radar and camera sensors, AEB operates in three stages. Initially warning the driver visually and acoustically, it controls the brake according to the collision danger stage, and applies maximum braking force right before the moment of collision. When a vehicle or pedestrian is sensed in front of the car, the system is activated, operating at speeds of 10 km/h or above and minimises damage when a collision is unavoidable.
Driver Attention Alert (DAA)
First in a Hyundai Motor vehicle is the Driver Attention Alert, a driver protection feature which helps monitor driving patterns in order to detect reckless or fatigued driving and prevent potential accidents. The system analyses various vehicle signals such as steering angle, steering torque, vehicle’s position in the lane and driving time. In addition, the driver can adjust a user-selectable setting for the system’s sensitivity. If the system detects inattentive driving patterns an audible sound and message on the instrument display panel will alert the driver.
Smart Cruise Control (SCC)
Using front radar sensors, SCC allows a constant speed and distance to be maintained from the vehicle ahead without depressing the accelerator or brake pedals; it is automatically cancelled when speed drops to 10 km/h or below.
Blind Spot Detector (BSD)
Also using radar technology, the Blind Spot Detector (BSD) with Lane Change Assist monitors the rear corners and, if another vehicle is detected, a visual alert appears on the exterior mirrors. If the driver then activates the indicators an audible signal is emitted. This also applies for a lane change situation when another vehicle is detected.
Rear-Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA)
Using the BSD sensors the RCTA system reduces the risk of collision with approaching traffic when reversing out of narrow areas with low visibility. Using a radar to scan a 180-degree area behind the vehicle for approaching cross-traffic, RCTA alerts the driver visually and acoustically
Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS)
The LKAS alerts the driver in unsafe movements at over 60 km/h by sensing the car’s position. The LDWS sounds an alarm before the car moves over white, grey and blue lines as well as Bott’s dots on the road, while the LKAS warns the driver acoustically and visually before inducing corrective steering to guide the driver back to a safe position.
Speed Limit Information Function (SLIF)
The SLIF uses the front camera and information from the navigation system to identify road speed signs and display the speed limit in real time. The information is displayed both in the navigation system display as well as in the TFT cluster.
High Beam Assist (HBA)
When switched to automatic mode, HBA detects both oncoming vehicles and vehicles in the same lane ahead at night and changes to low-beam as appropriate, reducing blinding effects on other drivers. Whenever there are no vehicles detected, the system automatically re-activates the high beams, maximising the driver’s range of vision.
Highest Passive Safety
Featuring 53% Advanced High Strength Steel, the New Generation 30 benefits from increased rigidity by 22% and a high impact energy absorption and minimised distortion to protect passengers in the event of a collision.
Thanks to an improved hot stamping method, the side outer reinforcement of the New Generation i30 is manufactured as one single component. Previously, there were five combined components. The completely new technology reduces weight by 4.1 kg and increases rigidity and impact energy absorption.
Around the interior of the New Generation i30, a total of seven airbags are installed, including a knee airbag for the driver. Beside the six standard airbags (2 front airbags, two side airbags to curtain airbags from first to second row protecting both driver and passengers), the knee airbag is an additional safety feature for the driver in the event of a front collision. 
04.         Technical Specifications
All technical specifications and emission values are preliminary target values and subject to homologation.
[NOTE - Specification may vary by market / region]
Body & Chassis
Five-door, five-seater hatchback. Choice of one transversely mounted diesel and three gasoline engines driving the front wheels via a six-speed manual or seven-speed automatic transmission – depending on model and market.
Gasoline engines
1.4 MPi100 PS
TypeKAPPA 1.4 MPI, 16-valve, DOHC D-CVVT
Capacity1368 cc
Bore x stroke71.6 x 84.0 mm
Compression ratio10.5
Power100 PS (73.3 kW) @ 6000 rpm
Torque134 Nm @ 4000 rpm

1.0 T-GDi 120 PS
TypeKAPPA 1.0 T-GDI, 12-valve, DOHC D-CVVT
Capacity998 cc
Bore x stroke71.0 x 84.0 mm
Compression ratio10.0
Power120 PS (88.3 kW) @ 6000 rpm
Torque171.1 Nm @ 1.500 ~ 4.000 rpm

1.4 T-GDi 140 PS
TypeKAPPA 1.4 T-GDI, 16-valve, DOHC D-CVVT
Capacity1353 cc
Bore x stroke71.6 x 84.0 mm
Compression ratio10.0
Power140 PS (103 kW) @ 6000 rpm
Torque242 Nm @ 1500 rpm
Diesel engines
1.6-litre 95 PS
TypeU 1.6 (LOW), 16-valve, DOHC
Capacity1582 cc
Bore x stroke77.2 x 84.5 mm
Compression ratio16,0
Power95 PS (70 kW) @ 4000 rpm
Torque280 Nm @1500~2000 rpm

1.6-litre 110 PS
TypeU 1.6 (MID), 16-valve, DOHC
Capacity1582 cc
Bore x stroke77.2 x 84.5 mm
Compression ratio16,0
Power110 PS (81 kW) @ 4000 rpm (6MT)
Torque280 Nm @ 1500~2500 rpm (6MT)

1.6-litre 136 PS
TypeU 1.6 (HIGH), 16-valve, DOHC
Capacity1582 cc
Bore x stroke77.2 x 84.5 mm
Compression ratio16,0
Power136 PS (100 kW) @ 4000 rpm (7DCT)
Torque280 Nm @ 1500~3000 rpm (136ps 6MT)
300 Nm @ 1750~2500 (7DCT)
Transmissions
Gasoline engines - speeds
Engine1.4 MPi (100)1.0 T-GDi (120)1.4 T-GDi (140)
Manual666
DCT--7
Diesel engines - speeds
Engine1.6 CRDi (95)1.6 CRDi (110)1.6 CRDi (136)
Manual666
DCT-77
Gear ratios
Gasoline
1.4
(100)
6MT
1.0 (120)1.4 (140)
6MT6MT Eco6MT Basic6MT Eco7DCT
1st3.7693.6153.6153.6153.6153.929
2nd2.0451.9551.9551.9621.9622.318
3rd1.3701.2861.2861.2571.2572.043
4th1.0360.9710.9710.9510.9511.070
5th0.8930.7740.7740.7780.7780.822
6th0.7740.6390.6390.6330.6330.884
7th-----0.721
Rev.3.7003.7003.7003.5833.5835.304
Final drive4.4004.2674.0594.1883.9414.294(1245)
3.174(367R)

Diesel
1.6 (95)
6MT
1.6 (110)1.6 (136)
6MT6MT Eco7DCT6MT7DCT
1st3.7693.6363.7693.7863.6363.786
2nd2.0401.9622.0402.2611.9622.261
3rd1.1891.1891.1891.9571.1891.957
4th0.8440.8440.8041.0230.8441.023
5th0.7020.7020.6600.7780.7020.778
6th0.5960.5960.5490.8370.5960.837
7th---0.681-0.681
Rev.3.5833.5833.5835.0743.5835.074
Final drive3.2503.4713.2504.176(1245)
3.087(367R)
3.7064.176(1245)
3.087(367R)
Suspension
FrontMcPherson Strut
RearMulti-Link
Steering
TypeMDPS (Motor driven Power Steering)
Steering Gear ratio13.4
Turning radius5.3 metres
Steering wheel turns lock-to-lock2.57
Brakes
FrontDisc Type, 15" : STD /16" : OPT
RearDisc Type, 14" : STD (HAND PARKING) /15" : OPT (EPB)
Master CylinderΦ23.8
Booster Size11" (LHD GSL)
10" (LHD DSL, RHD GSL, RHD DSL)"
Wheels and tyres
Wheel type                              Tyres
6,0J x 15 inch steel / alloy195 / 65 R15
6,5J x 16 inch alloy205 / 55 R16
7,0J x 17 inch alloy225 / 45 R17
Dimensions (mm)
Exterior
Overall length4.340
Overall width1.795
Overall height1455 (1450 Eco)
Wheelbase2.650
Front overhang905
Rear overhang785
Ground clearance140 (135 Eco)
Interior
FrontRear
Head room994977
Leg room1.073883
Shoulder room14271406
Capacities (litres)
Fuel tank50
LuggageMinimum 395
Maximum 1301
Weights* (kg) 
GasolineDiesel
1.4 MPi (100)
6MT
1.0 T-GDi (120)
6MT
1.4 T-GDi (140)1.6 CRDi (95)1.6 CRDi
(110)
1.6 CRDi
(136)
6MT7DCT6MT6MT7DCT6MT7DCT
Curb weight1.169 – 1.3161.194 – 1.3421.204 – 1.3521.240 – 1.3881.263 – 1.4111.263 – 1.4111.293 - 1.4411.263 – 1.4111.293 - 1.441
Gross vehicle weight1.7601.8001.8201.8501.8601.8601.9001.8601.900
Performance & Fuel Consumption*
Gasoline (manual/automatic)
Engine1,4 MPI (100)
(6MT)
1,0 T-GDI (120)
(6MT / 6MT Eco)
1,4  T-GDI (140
(6MT / 6MT Eco / 7DCT)
Maximum speed (km/h)183190 / 187210 / 208 / 205
0-100 km/h (seconds)12.711.1 / 11.38.9 / 9.1 / 9.2
CO2 combined (g/km)15’’:126
16’’-17’’: 130
15’’:112 / 103
16’’-17’’: 117 / 108
15’’: 119 / 109 / 121
16’’-17’’: 123 / 114 / 125
Diesel (manual/automatic)
EngineU2 1.6 (95)
(6MT)
U2 1.6 (110)
(6MT / 6MT Eco / 7DCT)
U2 1,6 (136)
(6MT / 7DCT)
Maximum speed (km/h)186190 / 188 / 190200 / 200
0-100 km/h (seconds)12.211.0 / 10.7 /11.210.2 / 10.6
CO2 combined (g/km)15’’: 95
16’’-17’’: 98
15’’: 96 / 89 / 105
16’’-17’’: 99/95 / 109
15’’: 99 / 105
16’’-17’’: 102 / 109
*Official combined cycle test –All values are tentative and not homologated yet, hence subject to changes

Mercedes-Benz Vans launches future initiative adVANceto expand its growth strategy and develop new business models

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New strategic future initiative adVANce and Vision Van
  • Mercedes-Benz Vans launches future initiative adVANceto expand its growth strategy and develop new business models
  • Investments of approximately 500 million euros over the next five years for digitalisation, automation and robotics in vans as well as innovative mobility solutions
  • New organisational unit within the start-up scene in Stuttgart, Berlin and Silicon Valley – approximately 200 employees already work on numerous projects
  • Close cooperation with start-ups, including first strategic investments – among others in Matternet
  • All-electric "Vision Van" van study with a range of up to 270 km, fully automated cargo space and integrated drones
Today the globally successful van manufacturer Mercedes-Benz Vans, has unveiled its strategic future initiative adVANce for the transport industry. 
This sees the division systematically taking up its customers' changing requirements. The transformation of the industry is the result of various economic and social trends, among them urbanisation, the growth in e-commerce, the intelligent networking of a wide range of technologies in the Internet of Things (IoT), and the proliferation of platform-based business models.
Mercedes-Benz Vans is systematically making use of present-day and future technological opportunities presented by digitalisation, automation and robotics.

The business division is developing from a mere vehicle manufacturer into a provider of system solutions and will offer integrated and intelligent systems in addition to its basic vehicles in the future. 
These solutions can make the transportation of goods and passengers even more efficient and open up new business opportunities and economic benefits for customers.
"In the first six months of this year, we brought in the best results yet for Mercedes-Benz Vans. This provides us with an excellent foundation to position our vans division systematically for the future," said Volker Mornhinweg, Head of Mercedes-Benz Vans, at today's Van Innovation Campus in Stuttgart.

"To live up to the dramatic changes in our sector, we adapt our 'Mercedes-Benz Vans goes global' strategy and expand it beyond the product and untapped international markets. We are focusing our attention beyond the vehicle on the entire value chain and business environment of our customers. 
We provide transport solutions for the digital age and evolve the van into an intelligent, interconnected data centre on wheels. 
In order to do this, we are investing around half a billion euros over the next five years, and we created a separate organisational unit. So far, this approach is unique within the van sector."
Identifying the customer requirements of tomorrow
With the adVANce initiative, Mercedes-Benz Vans is systematically adapting to new, rapidly changing customer requirements. Examples include the burgeoning business in food and everyday necessities ordered online. 
Here, demand for same-day delivery or delivery within an hour is increasing rapidly. At the same time, more and more people are living in cities – by 2030 urban areas will be home to more than two thirds of the world's population. 
It is clear that the rising transportation requirements will need to be met even faster and more efficiently in future and, above all, in an environmentally friendly way.
All-electric "Vision Van" van study for innovative delivery on the last mile
Mercedes-Benz Vans is presenting a fascinating, integrated solution for new customer requirements with the "Vision Van" van study, which was presented today and evolved as part of the adVANce initiative. 
This all-electric vehicle combines various innovative solutions for last-mile delivery in urban and suburban environments. It is the first van worldwide to fully digitally connect all people and processes involved, from the distribution centre to the consignee
Furthermore, it is the first van ever to feature a fully automated cargo space and integrated delivery drones. For example, if a parcel service provider stops his vehicle in a residential area, it will be possible to deliver multiple packages to nearby consignees autonomously by air – even if they are not at home – in addition to manual delivery. 
This makes the deliverer’s job easier, reduces the delivery time and offers end customers new opportunities such as same-day delivery at an agreed time. Mercedes-Benz Vans envisages deployment of the Vision Van boosting efficiency by up to 50 percent on the last mile. 
The vehicle is equipped with a 75 kW electric drive and – depending on the intended application – has a range of 80 km to approximately 270 km. With the Vision Van, deliveries are emission-free.
"With the Vision Van from Mercedes-Benz Vans we provide an idea of future generations of vans: the intelligent automation technology connects the entire process, from loading and transportation by road through to delivery to the consignee. 
This makes it easier for the deliverer to do business and rapidly reduces the delivery time for end customers," adds Volker Mornhinweg.
"Equipped with an electric drive system, the Vision Van not only operates locally emission-free, it also moves almost silently. This means that it can be operated in cities even during times when there are traffic restrictions or for late-night deliveries in residential areas. This gives our customers the possibility of offering new services to their customers."
Focusing on three key fields of innovation: adVANce
As part of the strategic future initiative, Mercedes-Benz Vans will be focusing on three fields of innovation: thefirst involves incorporating the van into the Internet of Things
For this purpose, Mercedes-Benz Vans is integrating smart technologies into the van, which increase its efficiency and make it a central component of the digital value chain. The focus here is on relevant applications and connectivity solutions (digital@vans). 
One example is developing a telematics unit for vans which collects and processes data concerning the status of the delivery tour, the present location and the load, and sends this information to the distribution manager. 
In this way it is possible to monitor and manage last-minute changes within the fleet efficiently from a central point.
Another application concentrates on the efficient part and tool management for service vehicles, for example tradespersons' mobile workshops. 
In future new holistic system solutions will enable parts to be ordered in a fully automated way by means of an intelligent inventory management within the vehicle, as well as for the relevant parts to be placed overnight directly into the van. 
Intermediate steps such as inventory evaluation, ordering parts manually and the tradesperson having to equip the vehicle are no longer necessary.
The second focal point is on innovative hardware-based solutions for the transportation industry(solutions@vans). 
Here Mercedes-Benz Vans is working on automated cargo space systems for delivery vehicles for parcel services, for example. Until now, deliverers need to rearrange their packages (on average around 180 per load) ten times while making deliveries within a residential area and schedule approximately three to four minutes per stop. 
New, interconnected cargo space systems make loading and unloading much faster, thereby increasing process efficiency. One-shot loading (loading the vehicle with all pre-picked parcels in one go) cuts loading times considerably and reduces the amount of vehicle downtime at distribution centres. 
When the deliverer is unloading, the system will show him the exact load configuration and make the right package available at the right time for delivery depending on the delivery destination. 
The team at Mercedes-Benz Vans also has the integration of autonomous delivery systems such as drones or self-driving robots in mind.
The third field of interestfor the Stuttgart-based van manufacturer in conjunction with various cooperation partners is new mobility concepts for the on-demand transportation of goods and people(mobility@vans). 
In future these intelligent mobility concepts could supplement public transit by making fast, efficient and individual transport of passengers possible during peak and off-peak hours via ridesharing concepts. In the future, the intelligent networking of technologies can also make the transportation of goods more efficient and considerably improve transport on the last mile. 
In this pioneering field Mercedes-Benz Vans is also working on innovative leasing, rental and sharing models, which are completely tailored to the needs of van customers.
New organisational unit within the start-up scene
In order to fully exploit the numerous opportunities of evolving the van and vehicle-related business systems, Mercedes-Benz Vans has created a new organisational unit called Future Transportation Systems
The project teams are based within the start-up scene in Stuttgart, Berlin and Silicon Valley. In total around 200 employees are working on these topics. They work closely with customers and partners from business, technology, logistics, research and the public sector. 
The objective of working with young companies is to combine the knowledge of the vehicle sector accumulated over decades with new perspectives, agile working methods and innovative ideas.
Strategic investments in innovative start-ups
In order to make new approaches market-ready, Mercedes-Benz Vans is investing in several innovative start-ups in the areas of automation, robotics and mobility services in a first step. One of the companies that Mercedes-Benz Vans has a stake in is Matternet, a US-based developer of autonomous drone logistics systems. 
Together with Matternet, Mercedes-Benz Vans worked on the Vision Van show car, the first integrated delivery system that automates last-mile delivery. 
The new system, which combines van and drone logistics, is a more efficient, faster and a more economical way for people to receive goods on-demand.
Mercedes-Benz Vans achieves most successful first half year ever with records in unit sales, revenue, EBIT and return on sales
In the first half of 2016, Mercedes-Benz Vans achieved the best figures in its history. Unit sales increased by 21 percent to approximately 176 200 vehicles (prior-year: approximately 145 400 units). The entire product portfolio contributed to this increase in unit sales. 

Revenue was up 19 percent to 6256 million euros, another best-ever level (prior-year: 5244 million euros). EBIT and return on sales climbed by 56 percent and 30 percent to 702 million euros and 11.2 percent reaching a new record level (prior-year: 449 million euros and 8.6 percent). Mercedes-Benz Vans anticipates further significant growth in unit sales for the 2016 financial year as a whole. 

The business division is also expecting a significantly higher EBIT from ongoing business in 2016 compared to 2015 as well as a significantly higher return on sales.

The Mercedes-Benz Vans division
Mercedes-Benz Vans is a global full-line supplier of vans and related services. Alongside the large-size Sprinter van and the mid-size Vito van (known in the US as Metris), the division's worldwide product portfolio includes the Mercedes-Benz Citan urban delivery van. 
Mercedes-Benz Vans is also represented in the private segment with the V-Class MPV and the Marco Polo and Marco Polo ACTIVITY travel vans. 
The division has a total of nine production locations: in Germany, Spain, the USA, Argentina, China (joint venture with Fujian Benz Automotive Co., Ltd), France (strategic alliance with Renault-Nissan) and Russia (partnerships with GAZ and YaMZ). 
To date, the main markets have been in Western Europe, accounting for a total of 65 percent of unit sales in 2015.

Audi is utilising the 2016 Paris Motor Show to officially unveil the new A5 and range topping S5 V6 quattro.

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Elegance and cutting edge intelligence of the coupé combine with five-door practicality and space in accommodating new Sportback variant
  • Sharp new look, greater efficiency and an even more spacious interior
  • Latest Audi technology including virtual cockpit, Audi Smartphone Interface and Audi connect
  • Advanced assistance systems including traffic jam assist and active lane assist available
  • Power increase of up to 17 per cent and fuel consumption down by as much as 22 per cent
  • Intelligent multi-material body is the lightest in its class
  • Forward-thinking quattro with ultra technology available for all four-cylinder TFSI and TDI engines
  • Flagship Audi S5 Sportback features V6 TFSI with 354PS and 500Nm and is 85kg lighter than its predecessor 
  • A5 Sportback range expected to open for UK order in mid-October
Blending elegant and emotive coupé design with impressive family car functionality and comfort has long been the forté of the sleek Audi A5 Sportback. 
Seven years and more than 340,000 units later, the 2016 Paris Motor Show will play host to the world premiere of the all-new second generation model, which further refines the ‘best of both worlds’ concept with even more tightly wrought lines, a completely new platform, the very latest engine, transmission and quattro drive developments and a host of contemporary driver assistance and infotainment systems.
Sharing the stage at Paris will be the flagship Audi S5 Sportback, which draws upon a new V6 turbocharged TFSI powerplant to deliver a hefty 354PS and 500Nm of torque from 1,370 to 4,500 rpm. From rest, it will blast past 62mph in only 4.7 seconds and can reach a limited top speed of 155mph.

Audi designers have brought together dramatic shapes and taut surfaces to update the new A5 Sportback, creating a familiar yet completely contemporary silhouette for the five-door coupé design that retains the original’s unmistakable road presence.  
The stretched wheelbase, short overhangs and long, wraparound bonnet featuring a power dome emphasise the dynamism of the five-door coupé silhouette. The three-dimensional Singleframe grille is significantly flatter and wider than on the previous model.

The wave-pattern shoulder line is a key contributor to the A5 Sportback’s elegant stance. It is even more strongly accentuated than on the previous model and traces all three dimensions, creating an interplay of light and shadow. 
The pronounced bulges over the wheel arches underscore the quattro DNA. The rear end exhibits horizontal, equally highly precise styling. The stretched luggage compartment lid terminates with a characteristic spoiler edge.
The appearance of the new S5 Sportback follows the form of Audi S models and is subtle yet appropriately brawny. The bumper, air inlets and side sills feature distinctive contours. 
Many of the S-specific styling additions are painted in graduated tones of matt grey. Aluminium inlays accentuate the design inside, while the exterior mirror housings shine in an aluminium look. 
The rear bumper integrates a black honeycomb grille, aluminium diffuser trim and the signature four tailpipes. A spoiler lip in body colour adorns the separating edge of the luggage compartment lid.
Interior
The new Audi A5 and S5 Sportback have grown significantly inside. The interior length has gained 17mm, the shoulder room for driver and front passenger up to 11mm and the rear knee room 24mm. The sophisticated materials and colour schemes and outstanding build integrity in the interior are typical of Audi. 
The horizontal architecture of the instrument panel creates a sense of spaciousness. The optional ambient lighting with 30 colours to choose from always evokes a fitting interior mood.
With 480 litres of luggage capacity, the A5 Sportback rates among the best in its class. Audi also offers the option of sensor control for opening and closing the standard-fit electric luggage compartment lid.
The rear seat back splits 40:20:40 as standard. The load-area width measures exactly one metre. The rectangular-shaped layout of the 480-litre luggage compartment makes it outstanding in terms of practical use. With the rear seats folded down, it can even accommodate 1,300 litres.
Display and controls
Thanks to the all-new operating and display concept, including free-text search, the driver can control all functions effortlessly and intuitively. 
As an alternative to the standard-fit analogue instrument dials, the Audi virtual cockpit with its various display options brings the driver added convenience. The large, high-resolution TFT monitor (12.3 inches) presents richly detailed graphics.
The optional head-up display projects all relevant information onto the windscreen as easily comprehensible symbols and digits, thus enabling the driver to keep their eyes on the road.
Infotainment and Audi connect
Audi’s flagship infotainment version is MMI navigation plus with MMI touch. It includes such features as 10 GB of flash storage, a DVD drive, Audi connect services free of charge for three years, up to five free navigation updates and an 8.3-inch monitor with a resolution of 1,024 x 480 pixels. 
Audi MMI navigation plus works in close cooperation with many of the assistance and safety systems.
The Audi smartphone interface integrates iOS and Android phones in an environment specially developed for them in the MMI. 
The Audi phone box connects smartphones to the on-board antenna to provide superior reception quality. It also charges the smartphone inductively, without any wires, using the Qi standard. 
The Bang & Olufsen Sound System with innovative 3D sound opens up the spatial dimension of height and gives the driver the sense of sitting in a concert hall. Its amplifier supplies 755 watts of power to 19 loudspeakers.
Driver assistance systems
The driver assistance systems cover a wide range of functions in the new Audi A5 Sportback. An intelligent combination of different technologies enhances safety, comfort and efficiency. Meanwhile Audi is also taking the next step toward piloted driving.
Playing a central role here is the adaptive cruise control (ACC) Stop&Go system including traffic jam assist. It relieves drivers in slow-moving traffic up to a driving speed of 40mph by assuming the tasks of braking and accelerating the car, and it also temporarily takes charge of steering it on better roads.
The predictive efficiency assistant, which evaluates GPS information from the car’s immediate surroundings, helps to save fuel by giving specific driving advice – a unique feature in this segment.
Collision avoidance assist intervenes if the car needs to drive around an obstacle to avoid an accident. Based on data from the front camera, ACC and radar sensors, it computes a recommended driving line within a fraction of a second.
The lineup is rounded out by other assistance systems such as turn assist, park assist, cross traffic assist rear, exit warning, camera-based traffic sign recognition, Audi active lane assist and Audi side assist.
Suspension
The wide track and comparatively long wheelbase provide excellent foundations for composed, agile handling in the new A5 Sportback. The track width is 1,587mm at the front and 1,568mm at the rear. The wheelbase measures 2,824mm.
The front axle features redesigned five-link suspension, while a five-link construction replaces the trapezoidal-link rear suspension used previously. Specially tuned S sport suspension is fitted to the Audi S5 Sportback.
The adaptive dampers available as an option are integrated into the standard Audi drive select dynamic handling system. They make for a driving experience that is both dynamic and comfortable. 
The new electromechanical power steering provides better road feedback and steering precision. Also available as an option is dynamic steering, which varies its gear ratio depending on the speed and steering angle.
As standard, the A5 Sportback is fitted with 17-inch forged lightweight wheels, with a wide range of options available up to 19 inches in size. All tyres have been optimised for rolling resistance, which reduces CO2emissions by an average of 2.8 grams per km.
Engines and drivetrain
Customers can choose between two TFSI and three TDI engine versions for the new Audi A5 Sportback. They produce between 190PS and 286PS of power. Compared with the previous model, Audi has reduced their fuel consumption by as much as 22 percent while increasing power output by up to 17 percent.
The top version of the 2.0 TFSI produces 252PS. 370 Nm (272.9 lb-ft) of torque is available between 1,600 and 4,500 rpm. It sprints from 0 to 62mph in six seconds on its way to an electronically limited top speed of 155mph. Up to 47.8mpg combined is achievable, which corresponds to 136 grams of CO2 per kilometre.
The second version of the 2.0 TFSI has an output of 190PS and 320 Nm (236.0 lb-ft) of torque available from 1,450 to 4,200 rpm. The power unit is responsive, flexible and thoroughly economical. 
These characteristics are the result of a new strategy: the continued development by Audi of successful engine downsizing into rightsizing. The trailblazing efficiency of the 2.0 TFSI with 190PS is the result of an innovative combustion principle. 
The comparatively high displacement is no handicap here – in fact, it is essential. Customers of the new Audi A5 Sportback enjoy the advantages of a small-displacement engine when driving at moderate speeds, without having to compromise when it comes to faster driving.  
The four-cylinder TDI in the new Audi A5 Sportback develops 190PS and peak torque of 400 Nm (295.0 lb-ft)between 1,750 and 3,000 rpm. With quattro all-wheel drive and the seven-speed S tronic, 62mph from rest takes 7.4 seconds.
Top speed is 146mph. In combination with the seven-speed S tronic and front-wheel drive, the 2.0 TDI returns 67.3mpg combined according to the NEDC standard, a CO2 equivalent of 109 grams per km.
High and low-pressure exhaust gas recirculation and sophisticated exhaust gas treatment including an SCR system (SCR: selective catalytic reduction) work in favour of low emissions.
Audi also offers the 2.0 TDI in an ultra version which is distinguishable externally by way of a rear-mounted badge. The ultra badge denotes the most efficient versions of a model line. 
Modifications to the transmission ratio, optimised streamlining of the body and suspension as well as the use of low-rolling-resistance tyres help to further reduce consumption, enabling up to 68.9mpg combined (108 grams of CO2 per kilometre) in the NEDC cycle, which sets the benchmark in the competitive field.
The two six-cylinder TDI power units offer a blend of power, refinement and impressive efficiency. The first variant of the 3.0 TDI produces 218PS and torque of 400 Nm (295.0 lb-ft), available between 1,250 and 3,750 rpm. 
In the NEDC cycle, this engine is capable of a combined 61.4mpg, corresponding to CO2 emissions of 119 grams per km.
The new top TDI increases power output to 286PS and offers 620 Nm (457.3 lb-ft) of torque between 1,500 and 3,000 rpm. It features optimised combustion chamber filling, charge cycles and thermal management. 
The result is increased performance coupled with a further reduction in fuel consumption. Close-coupled catalytic converters treat the exhaust gas effectively.
The top diesel version contains a newly developed turbocharger that is 20 percent lighter, with variable turbine geometry (VTG) and a maximum boost pressure of 3.3 bar. The developers put a lot of work into optimising the gas flow, with the result that the engine responds highly spontaneously to the accelerator.
Six-speed manual transmission, seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission or eight-speed tiptronic – there is tailor-made drivetrain technology available for every engine version. Front-wheel drive is standard, with quattro all-wheel drive available as an option in two versions. It is standard for the 3.0 TDI with 286PS.
A V6 turbo engine with a hefty 354PS and 500Nm (368.8 lb-ft)of torque from 1,370 to 4,500 rpm powers the latest Audi S5 Sportback from 0 to 62mph in 4.7 seconds, and on up to an electronically governed top speed of 155mph. 
It naturally features quattro as standard, with wheel selective torque control as well as an eight-speed tiptronic transmission that can freewheel for further efficiency gains between 34 and 99mph when the driver eases off the accelerator pedal.
quattro with ultra technology
The new quattro with ultra technology is available for the TFSI and TDI four-cylinder engines with manual transmission. The efficiency-optimised all-wheel drive system does not perceptible differ from permanent systems in terms of traction and driving dynamics. 
This is all thanks to the combination of the newly developed all-wheel drive components with a sophisticated operating strategy and a torque split perfectly matched to the car. 
The all-wheel drive system’s intelligent control works predictively, always looking ahead by means of a comprehensive array of sensors and the continuous analysis of the driving dynamics, road condition and driver behaviour data collected.
During operation at low loads without the risk of wheel slip, the new quattro drive exploits all the advantages of front-wheel drive. But the all-wheel drive system is always ready when needed. 
This system significantly reduces the potential difference in fuel consumption between front-wheel drive and permanent all-wheel drive systems.
Sport differential
As an option for the S5 Sportback, Audi complements quattro all-wheel drive with another dynamic technology component – the sport differential. It uses two superposition gears to distribute torque between the rear wheels. 
The latest generation of the differential is roughly one kilogram lighter. During fast driving, the sport differential literally pushes the car into the curve, nipping understeer in the bud. When turning into or accelerating in a curve, most of the torque is directed to the outside wheel.
Body and equipment
The body of the new Audi A5 Sportback is the lightest in the segment. An intelligent mix of materials makes it 15 kilograms lighter than that of its predecessor. The overall weight of the new generation has fallen by as much as 85 kilograms to just 1,470 kilograms, excluding the driver.
Audi offers the model with an upgraded list of standard equipment that includes a wide range of extra functions. 
These include xenon headlights with LED daytime running lights and LED rear lights, Audi MMI radio plus with a 7-inch colour display, Bluetooth, a three-spoke leather multifunction steering wheel (including shift paddles in models with automatic transmission), front centre armrest, folding rear seat back with 40:20:40 split, and LED interior lighting. 
Also standard are the Audi drive select dynamic handling system, the Audi pre sense city and multicollision brake assist safety systems, and the variable speed limiter.

Bentley's Luxury barge, the Flying Spur W12S has increased power to take it over 200mph for the first time.

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  • Increased power, torque and responsiveness
  • First four-door Bentley with top speed above 200 mph (325 km/h)
  • Outputs increase to 635 PS (626 bhp) and 820 Nm (605 lb. ft.); 0-100 km/h in just 4.5 seconds (0-60 mph in 4.2 seconds)
  • Dark, sporting exterior aesthetic; unique interior styling features
  • Revised suspension offers improved body control and handling without sacrificing comfort
Bentley Motors is today announcing the introduction of a new flagship to the Flying Spur range, blending luxury, style and power: the Flying Spur W12 S.
The new model is the first four-door Bentley to have a top speed in excess of 200 mph, and offers a more sporting experience for owners looking for increased power, torque and responsiveness.
The Flying Spur W12 S features a number of dark styling cues which hint at its new and improved dynamic capabilities. A suite of blackware detailing – including Beluga gloss radiator grille and light surrounds – a rear diffuser and optional carbon fibre veneer gives the new model a dramatic and purposeful appearance to match its enhanced performance.

Wolfgang Dürheimer, chairman and chief executive of Bentley Motors, said: “The Flying Spur W12 S is the ultimate luxury performance sedan. It combines sharper dynamics and an increase in power from our renowned W12 engine with a more assertive exterior and interior design for customers looking for a Flying Spur with extra attitude.”
200 MPH+ Performance – The Fastest Flying Spur Yet
The Flying Spur W12 S features enhanced power and torque outputs from the mighty 6.0-litre, twin-turbo W12 engine. Through precise calibration and tuning, engine power is increased from 625 PS to 635 PS (626 bhp) and torque from 800 Nm to 820 Nm (605 lb. ft.) for a more dynamic drive. Full torque is available from just 2,000 rpm, making for a totally effortless driving experience. 
This increase in power means that the Flying Spur W12 S achieves a top speed of 325 km/h (202 mph) – the first four-door Bentley to exceed the 200 mph performance barrier. The initial sprint to 100 km/h is dispatched in 4.5 seconds (0-60 mph in 4.2 seconds).
In modern Bentley tradition, power is delivered to the road via an all-wheel-drive system with a 40:60 rear-biased torque split for a sure-footed, engaging drive in all road and weather conditions.
Complementing these power upgrades, a new responsive suspension tune for the Flying Spur W12 S improves handling and provides even more traction, while optional carbon ceramic brakes are available with red or black painted calipers.
The new flagship Flying Spur has specific damper and stability control calibrations for a more involving, agile drive. Yet, due to its clever suspension set-up, which retains the refined ride for which the Flying Spur W12 is renowned, the S derivative remains a luxury sedan for those who wish to be chauffeured, as well as those who choose to drive.
Striking Design Signals Performance Intent
Bentley’s design team has created an athletic character that combines traditional Bentley styling cues with a sporting stance. Sharp feature lines complement muscular rear haunches, while LED daytime running lights, subtle blackware elements and a choice of stylish alloy wheels afford the Flying Spur a modern, contemporary feel.
From new gloss-black detailing on the bodywork, to the unique leather stitching, the new exterior and interior styling reflects the more assertive, darker character of the Flying Spur W12 S.
There is full exterior gloss blackware for the radiator and window surrounds, lights, rear bumper, door handle inserts and headlight washer caps. A new W12 S badge on the D-pillar features a black ‘S’, while the sporting front-bumper design, Beluga gloss rear diffuser and door mirrors, and gloss-black front radiator matrix are adopted from the new Flying Spur V8 S.
The front and rear lamps receive a dark tint while a new, lower bumper insert suggests a more assertive driving manner.
The wheels offered on the Flying Spur W12 S are 21” 7-spoke with a new gloss-black finish, or a new optional 21” Sports 5-spoke directional wheel finished in either gloss black or a dark tint.
Inside, the Flying Spur W12 S boasts styling cues designed to enhance its sporting luxury aesthetic, with the exquisite handcrafted interior offering a wider palette of colours, a new fascia finish and unique stitching.
New standard interior features include a unique black engine-spin finish to the fascia and waistrails (a satin carbon-fibre finish is an option); a W12 S headrest emblem in contrast or blind stitching; W12 S treadplates for the front and rear; a three-spoke Sport Plus steering wheel and knurled gearshift paddles, which are only available as options on other models.
A new colour split unique to the Flying Spur W12 S model is created using a single-tone interior with accents in one of 17 hide colours, and unique contrast stitching to the diamond quilting, the Sport Plus steering wheel and the interior.
Flying Spur – Technology on Demand
The Flying Spur comes complete with a suite of onboard technology to make it an ideal place for work or relaxation on the move.
An innovative Touch Screen Remote, deployed from the veneered rear centre console at the touch of a button, allows control of the car’s climate and infotainment systems from the comfort of the rear seat. The Flying Spur also features a WiFi hotspot for connectivity on demand while travelling.
Customer deliveries of the new Flying Spur W12 S will commence at the end of the year.

Citroen takes over the Westfield Stratford City Link Bridge to make it one of the biggest adverts in the UK.

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Citroën has taken over the Westfield Stratford City link bridge from 3 September to 1 October to create one of the brand’s largest public installations in the UK to date. The second only brand to take over the bridge since the London 2012 Olympics, Citroën will display artwork created by Havas London, emphasising the brand’s rich heritage and visions of the future. 
On 3 September, Citroën took over the Westfield Stratford City link bridge for one month and unveiled one of the largest display installations to celebrate a partnership with Westfield Stratford City.

Designed by Havas London, and covering the entire length of the pedestrian bridge which links Stratford rail station to Westfield Stratford City shopping centre, the installation highlights Citroën’smost important historic moments and popular models.
Citroën is a brand recognised for its creativity and advanced technologies. The artwork, which took 4 nights to install and is 120 metres long and 4.4metres high, had to be carefully constructed to take into account the bridge dimensions, curves and numerous panel sizes, making it a particularly challenging task. 
Four teams worked from the middle out, so that both sides were covered simultaneously.
Covering the inside walls of the structure, the artwork takes the viewer through a journey of the French marque. Starting  with the manufacturer’s founder André Citroën, passers-by will continue to learn about groundbreaking Citroën moments such as writing the marque’s name with 30m high letters on the side of the Eiffel Tower, using 250,000 light bulbs and 600 kilometres of cable. 
The biggest advert at the time, set the pace for the brand’s bold attitude that is still part of its DNA today.
Showcasing the marque’s innovative roots, the bridge display uncovers archive images of the 1948 Type H, the first mass-produced front-wheel drive van, and the 2CV, the first front wheel drive small car in the world.
Creating cars that make people feel good has always been Citroën’s goal. Moving on from the historic images, the bridge artwork takes the viewer to present times, showing the brand’s new models such as New C3, and features dedicated to ultimate comfort and personalisation. 
The Airbump® technology, Citroën Advanced Comfort®, reversing camera and key-less entry, bi-tone body colour combinations and PureTech Petrol engines (International Engine of the Year in 2015 and 2016) are just some of the Citroën hallmarks presented.
“This is a fantastic opportunity for Citroën to use the bridge space to tell the Citroën story in an innovative, bold and spirited way. With an ‘Opportunity To See’ reach of over 665,000 visitors per week, this is a valuable advertising platform for Citroën”, Chris Cheetham, Marketing Director of Citroën UK.
“Westfield is very proud to partner with global brand Citroën in the first of what will be a series of events, installations and UK-first customer experiences”, Paul Buttigieg, Director of Shopping Centre Management Westfield Europe.
The takeover of the bridge marks Citroën’s 15-month partnership with the Westfield Stratford City shopping mall.

University of Kent expands its 100 per cent electric Renault Kangoo Van Z.E fleet to 15 with six new Panel Vans

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  • University of Kent expands its 100 per cent electric Renault Kangoo Van Z.E fleet to 15 with six new Panel Vans
  • Environmentally-compatible vehicles used on campus for staff mobility and maintenance duties
  • Innovative LCV contributing to the university meeting the targets of its Carbon Trust Strategy
  • Order continues University of Kent’s partnership with Europe’s EV and LCV market leader
  • Renault Kangoo Van Z.E comes with four-year/100,000-mile warranty
One of the UK’s leading academic institutions is using the 100 per cent electric Renault Kangoo Van Z.E to help educate its students on the importance of sustainability and the benefits of electric vehicles.
The University of Kent is employing the versatile LCV to transport its maintenance teams, furniture and recycling around the 300-acre grounds of its Canterbury campus. 
The highly visible use of the Renault Kangoo Van Z.E, coupled with a striking livery proclaiming the 100 per cent electric power, perfectly illustrates to students the advancements in electric vehicle technology and the university’s commitment to the environment.

In the latest development in its drive to meet the targets of its Carbon Trust Strategy, where it aims to lower its carbon emissions by 23 per cent by 2020, the University of Kent has added six further Renault Kangoo Van Z.E Panel Van versions to its fleet, taking itsnumber of Renault Kangoo Van Z.Es to 15.
The university, which has recently celebrated its 50th anniversary, has been a long-term partner of Renault and supporter of the Kangoo Van Z.E. Its fleet also includes examples of the award-winning Renault Trafic and larger Renault Master, the University of Kent originally choosing Renault based on their value, emissions and locality of aftersales facilities.
The University of Kent’s latest Renault Kangoo Van Z.Es replace equivalent diesel Renault Kangoo Vans, after the learning centre chose to opt for Z.E variants when its conventionally-powered Kangoo Vans were due for change. 
All the vans feature the generously-equipped Business specification, which as standard includes DAB radio with Bluetooth and USB connectivity, remote central locking, multi-function computer, ABS with EBD (Electronic Brake force Distribution), full steel bulkhead and alarm. 
The University of Kent enhanced their vehicles with the addition of factory-fitted ply lining, the popular option involving no extra fixings to be drilled and providing protection from the variety of loads that the vans will carry in their day-to-day roles at the university.
At 625 kg, the Kangoo Z.E Panel Van has nearly the same 650 kg payload of diesel versions, while offering ultra-low running costs from only two pence per mile and being exempt from the Road Fund Licence – and Congestion Charge in central London.
The University of Kent’s latest batch of Renault Kangoo Van Z.Es have all been supplied by Motorline Renault, Maidstone, which has a long-running relationship with the university and assists in the management of its fleet. 
As a Renault Pro+ specialist, the dealership is able to cater for the varied and often complex requirements of business customers. 
As well as the specialised, business-focused expertise of Motorline Renault, the University of Kent also benefits from the Renault Business Quality Commitment – the manufacturer’s 13-point plan that guarantees customers will receive a class-leading service. 
Designed to keep customers moving no matter what and deliver hassle-free business motoring, the plan covers everything from an impressive warranty and transparent pricing to the availability of courtesy vehicles and a dedicated customer hotline.
Like all Renault LCVs, the Renault Kangoo Van Z.E comes complete with the reassurance of the manufacturer’s impressive 4-year/100,000-mile warranty and four years’ roadside assistance package.
Gary Law, Finance Manager, University of Kent, said: “We were interested in the Kangoo Van Z.E as soon as it became available and it’s proved to be very suitable for our onsite requirements, while at the same time making a significant contribution to lowering our carbon footprint and perfectly conveying our drive to be a leader in promoting responsible vehicle use.
“Our onsite vehicles only cover around 2,500 miles a year, but it’s all stop-start driving and the Kangoo Van Z.E’s ease-of-use makes it ideal for nipping around the campus. 
On some occasions the vans are only used to transport a man with a tool bag, but the payload gives us the option of carrying bulky and heavy items, so it’s a great all-rounder for us.”
Matthew Brealey, Fleet Manager, University of Kent, added: “Our Renault Kangoo Van Z.Es are driven by a whole host of users and the feedback we have received has been very positive. 
The simplicity and ease of use is a major plus point and we’ve seen people who were sceptical about EVs, and who would previously only ever consider a vehicle with a normal combustion engine, converted to electric vehicles after experiencing the Kangoo Van Z.E.
“With the very high amount of people on campus, the only thought was that they might actually be too quiet in operation, but the well-considered specification of the Kangoo Van Z.E means that this has not been an issue, as the Z.E. voice pedestrian warning system is standard.”
Nick Tame, Sales Director, Groupe Renault UK, said: “We are delighted that the Renault Kangoo Van Z.E is not only proving to be suitable for the University of Kent on a practical level, but is also excelling in demonstrating the university’s commitment to the environment and driving home the many virtues of electric vehicles to its staff and students.”
Ben Fletcher, Electric Vehicle Product Manager, Groupe Renault UK, added: “With no gears and instant pulling power, the Renault Kangoo Van Z.E offers a very pleasurable drive and one that is especially suited to the stop-start usage by the University of Kent. 
The university is just the kind of environmentally-conscious customer that the Renault Kangoo Van Z.E is aimed at, addressing users’ wishes to preserve their immediate and wider surroundings, while also providing a high level of flexibility and being uncompromised in its payload.”
Europe’s best-selling all-electric LCV and offering zero emissions in use, the Renault Kangoo Van Z.E is available in standard and longer ‘Maxi’ wheelbases. After the Government’s Plug-in Van Grant is applied, the Renault Kangoo Z.E costs from £13,146.48 ex. VAT.
For the UK market, the Renault Z.E offering also comprises of the innovative, two-seater Twizy urban vehicle, Twizy Cargo that has a load area of 180 litres and a useful 75 kg payload, and the multiple award-winning ZOE five-door supermini hatchback – a three-time winner of What Car? ‘Best electric car on sale for under £20,000’. 
In 2015, Renault was the European market leader for electric cars, with ZOE, and also Europe’s electric van leader with Kangoo Van Z.E., and sold a total of 23,086 electric vehicles (including Twizy). ZOE is the second best-selling electric car in the UK representing one in five EVs sold. Renault has sold over 94,000 electric vehicles across the world to date.
Renault van sales in the UK grew by over 20 per cent to 13,435 vehicles in the first half of 2016, significantly outpacing the van market that grew by 2.5 per cent, according to official figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders. LCV market share for the first half of 2016 stood at 7 per cent – up 1 percentage point on the same period in 2015.
Renault’s growth in the van market builds upon a record year for LCV sales in the UK last year, with sales up 40 per cent on 2014 to 25,458 units, and also the manufacturer being the best-selling LCV brand in Europe for the 18th consecutive year.

Caterham launches a factory built model that comes straight out of the 1960's, it's pure history on four wheels.

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Caterham Cars has built a variant of its iconic Seven that was seemingly planned in the mid-1960s but never launched – the Caterham Seven Sprint.
As though dug up in a time capsule, the retro detailing of the Caterham Seven Sprint will delight Seven purists and provides the perfect scene-setter to the brand’s ‘60 Years of the Seven’ anniversary, which will be celebrated next year.
The Sprint, priced from £27,995, will finally be available to order from September 9, when the car will be launched at the Goodwood Revival, a fittingly retro setting for a car with one wheel firmly planted in the ‘60s.

Powered by the same 80hp, three-cylinder Suzuki engine installed in Caterham’s entry-level Seven 160 model, the Sprint features a host of nostalgia-soaked features, including a choice of six paint colours that were original British manufacturer colours available in 1966/67.
Caterham Cars CEO, Graham Macdonald, said: “We have always prided ourselves on continually developing the Seven during the 44 years we have been custodian of the model.”

“But we never wished to dismiss our heritage either and I know there are plenty of Seven purists and aficionados out there who will really appreciate the level of detail we’ve gone to with the Sprint to resurrect the spirit of those early cars.”
“It’s a car that has been built today, with all the benefits that modern engineering brings with it, but the essence of the swinging ‘60s and is the perfect precursor to our 60th-anniversary celebration in 2017.”
The launch of the Sprint heralds the start of Caterham’s ‘60 years of the Seven’ celebrations, which will culminate with a spectacular Caterham festival at Donington Park next summer. To reflect the anniversary further, only 60 Sprints will be destined for the UK and European markets.
The Sprint chassis is powder-coated grey, making it period-accurate for a Series 2 Lotus 7, while the suspension and rollover bar are also reminiscent of Colin Chapman’s original.
With flared front wings, polished exhaust silencer and uniquely retro-styled, individual rear lights, the Sprint harks back to the early days of the Seven and the choice of paint colours completes the exterior effect.
Wheels will be painted cream and finished with polished hubcaps, while the main bodywork, emblazoned with retro Caterham branding and Sprint logo, is available in original British colours, named by Caterham to reflect their heritage – Cream, Mellow Yellow, Regency Red, Camberwick Green, British Racing Green and Misty Blue.
Inside the cockpit, the sepia-toned impression continues, with a wooden-rimmed sports steering wheel and dashboard in wood effect, complete with a classic oOOo instrument layout. The tacho even features red and yellow sectors, in true ‘60s style.
Meanwhile, the interior panels and Muirhead Scottish seat upholstery is hand-stitched in the period style and finished in striking scarlet red.
The interior and luggage space are fully carpeted, as befits a ‘60s connoisseur and there are very few concessions to modern life, the main one being the three-pot Suzuki engine, which generates performance good enough to be considered beyond mundane but perfectly capable of a more leisurely application.
The Caterham Seven Sprint will be available as a factory-built car only.

BMW tops the nation’s fastest sellers in August with its compact 1 Series Hatchback, SUV's dominate though.

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  • BMW tops the nation’s fastest sellers in August with its compact 1 Series Hatchback
  • Toyota AYGO city car ranks second with its fourth appearance in the top ten in 2016
  • But it’s Crossovers that prove the big hit with buyers with five in the UK’s top ten
The BMW 1 Series was the fastest set of wheels off the UK’s forecourts in August.
The 2012 premium hatchback proved a big hit with buyers and in this petrol automatic guise took just an average of 19 days to sell.
Taking second spot is a regular visitor to the UK’s fastest selling cars, the Toyota AYGO. The 2014 model with petrol engine and automatic gearbox took 21 days to find a buyer and this is the fourth time this year the compact city car has made an appearance in the UK’s top ten quickest selling cars.

Meanwhile the Fiat 500L, the larger five-door version of the popular urban runaround, pops up for the second time in the nation’s rapid sellers to rank third. The diesel automatic version took 21 days from forecourt to buyer – the same time as the Toyota AYGO.
It’s Crossovers, however, that dominated the sales charts in August taking five of the top ten spots nationally and were the quickest sellers in seven of the UK’s regions.
Nissan’s Qashqai continues to prove popular as a used buy and makes frequent appearances in the UK’s and regional’s monthly fastest sellers. It’s the rarer seven-seat model, the Qashqai+2, that ranks as the fifth fastest selling car in the UK and takes first place in Yorkshire. The standard five-seat model found was changing hands quickest in the South West and ranked ninth nationally.
The SMMT new car registration data for August echoes the UK top ten fastest selling used cars as the Nissan Qashqai is the tenth most popular new car. What’s more, the new car registrations ranked the Ford Kuga as the ninth best-selling model in the UK. It’s a 2015 Kuga with petrol engine and manual gearbox that ranks as the tenth fastest seller in the country taking 25 days from landing at the showroom to finding a buyer.
Karolina Edwards-Smajda, Retailer and Consumer Products Director said: “Crossovers continue to be highly sought after by buyers as our fastest selling car data and the SMMT’s new car registration figures confirm. But as the UK’s top three fastest selling cars prove it’s not always easy to tell what type of car will always prove popular with consumers. Retailers who place data at the heart of their business will be able to glean insights as to what cars are desirable in their area and where to price them to the market to attract buyers, and these insights can supplement a retailer’s own expertise and knowledge.”
Karolina Edwards-Smajda continues: “With consumers all looking for something different it is difficult to tell which vehicles are particularly in demand in a given location at a given time. Employing data and a scientific approach means you will always know what cars to put on your forecourt and how to price them to attract buyers and sell cars quickly. A faster speed of sale means more profit per car and more sales overall, leading to more sales and more profit in a year.”
Rank*DescriptionAverage Days to SellAverage Price PositionAverage Retail Price
12012 BMW 1 Series Hatchback Petrol Automatic19100.10%£12,999
22014 Toyota AYGO Hatchback Petrol Semi-Automatic2198.17%£6,713
32013 Fiat 500L Hatchback Diesel Automatic2198.75%£8,024
42013 Seat Altea XL MPV Diesel Automatic2297.65%£8,094
52013 Nissan Qashqai+2 Hatchback Petrol Automatic2399.12%£14,243
62009 Mazda Mazda6 Hatchback Diesel Manual2492.87%£4,133
72013 Volkswagen Tiguan SUV Diesel Automatic2599.87%£15,920
82014 Volkswagen Tiguan SUV Diesel Automatic2599.70%£18,459
92014 Nissan Qashqai Hatchback Diesel Automatic2598.98%£17,513
102015 Ford Kuga SUV Petrol Manual2599.44%£17,201
Users of i-Control took an average time to sell of 28 days versus a market average of 63 days in August. This means those dealerships using our data insights tool now outperform the market by over 55%.
i-Control tracks live market movements, recommends what stock to buy, where to find it, how much to pay for it, and how much to sell it for taking into account regional differences in desirability – and is proven to improve stock turn, as we’ve seen, by nearly 60%.
Using a combination of daily guide prices from over 4,500 dealer websites, the 500,000+ ads on autotrader.co.ukand price data from all major auctions, fleet & lease companies and manufacturers, i-Control provides accurate valuations ensuring retailers’ stock is competitively priced from day one.
*Please note that ranking for fastest selling is based on days to sell and the vehicle count with those cars enjoying the fewest days to sell and the highest vehicle count being ranked highest.
Regional Fastest Sellers
RegionMake/ModelDays to sell
East of England2015 Land Rover Range Rover Sport SUV Diesel Automatic26
East Midlands2015 Nissan Juke Hatchback Diesel Manual22
London2012 Ford Galaxy MPV Diesel Automatic10
North East2015 Nissan Note Hatchback Petrol Manual22
North West2015 Mercedes-Benz A Class Hatchback Diesel Automatic21
Northern Ireland2013 Volkswagen Golf Hatchback Diesel Manual32
Scotland2015 Hyundai ix35 Estate Diesel Manual14
South2013 BMW 3 Series Estate Diesel Automatic25
South East2013 Volkswagen Tiguan SUV Diesel Automatic23
South West2014 Nissan Qashqai Hatchback Diesel Manual30
Wales2015 Hyundai i30 Hatchback Diesel Manual27
West Midlands2015 Hyundai ix35 Estate Diesel Manual23
Yorkshire2013 Nissan Qashqai+2 Hatchback Diesel Manual20

Peugeot adds it's more powerful & cleaner BlueHDi engine range to the Boxer commercial Vehicle range of vans.

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  • Latest BlueHDi 2.0-litre engine range will now power the Peugeot Boxer
  • The new version of the 2.0-litre engine provides increases of power and torque over previous unit
  • It is also more economical with lower CO2 output and meets the more stringent Euro6 regulations
PEUGEOT is completing the roll-out of its range of Euro 6 engines with the large van segment. The PEUGEOT Boxer will now be available with a new range of 2.0-litre BlueHDi Diesel engines, designed and produced by the PSA Group. 
BlueHDi technology has been tried and tested in PEUGEOT saloons and SUVs since 2013, treating up to 90% of NOx and 99.9% of even the finest particulates. 
Not only is it considered the most effective technology on the market for treating emissions; it has the added advantage of optimising fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. 

At the same time, PEUGEOT has extended the Boxer’s range of new, modern and efficient features, to make life easier for professionals and motorhome customers.
Lower fuel consumption; higher performance
The new range of PEUGEOT Boxer 2.0-litre BlueHDi engines offers three power levels:
  • 110hp and 300Nm, an increase of 50Nm compared to the previous engine
  • 130hp and 340Nm, an increase of 20Nm compared to the previous engine
  • 160hp and 350Nm, an increase of 10hp compared to the previous engine
The engines are paired with a 6-speed manual gearbox and Stop & Start technology is available across all of the versions.
The BlueHDi engines fitted to the latest PEUGEOT Boxer means it now has:
  • record consumption levels for the large van segment, starting from 47.0mpg, with 154g/km of CO2, a reduction of 30g/km CO2 for the 130hp mid-range version
  • The same payload and maximum speed as previous Euro 5 versions
  • Acceleration and in-gear acceleration improved by up to 4.0 seconds for 0-62 mph and 8.0 seconds for 50 to 80mph for the 110hp version, respectively.
The BlueHDi technology incorporates SCR (Selective Catalytic Reduction) upstream of the additivate cleansing DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter). The engine options therefore meet the Euro6 standard with what is considered the most effective pollution control technology on the market.
The 15-litre AdBlue tank provides a range of approximately 6,200 miles. It’s easy to fill up with AdBlue, due to the external filler flap which is located above the fuel filler and is also compatible with existing heavy goods vehicle AdBlue pumps at service stations.
The PEUGEOT Boxer offers competitive whole life costs, due mainly to its best-in-class fuel consumption and maintenance costs which rank amongst the lowest in the segment.
Design focused on quality and strength
The New PEUGEOT Boxer that was introduced in 2014 was the first step in the brand’s ongoing process of improving its large vans. With design constantly focused on robustness and quality that stands up to use, they are now being fitted with new Euro6 BlueHDi engines which have been designed and produced entirely by the PSA Group.
The new engines have been made at the Tremery plant in France, which has allowed them to benefit from the proven expertise of a plant that has already made more than 12 million engines. They are based on the latest generation of 2.0-litre DW Diesel engines from the PSA Group, incorporating the Euro 6 BlueHDi technology that has already sold in excess of 1 million units.
The 2.0-litre BlueHDi has been proving its worth since the end of 2013, particularly in the PEUGEOT 508 and 308. The 2.0-litre BlueHDi versions for the PEUGEOT Boxer have been subjected to over 10,000 hours of validation on test benches and 1.3 million specific driving tests representing different types of heavy commercial vehicle use.
These include:
  • Specific tests to boost the endurance and durability of the turbo and the exhaust manifold;
  • Tests with a 50% greater load than for private vehicles;
  • Tests in climatic chambers at -30°C and 6,000 extra cycles of thermal shocks compared to private vehicles, equivalent to 15 years of heavy use;
  • Specific ground clearance and endurance tests of the exhaust pipe, with post-treatment spraying with water and mud.
New modern, effective equipment
The connectivity of the PEUGEOT Boxer has been enhanced, making it even easier for professionals to make their vehicles an extension of their offices: a holder for a digital tablet or smartphone, a USB connection and a 12V socket on the instrument panel to power them are now available as standard for the Professional version.
To make life easier at the wheel, the central glove compartment has now been replaced with a double cup-holder, a storage compartment and a compartment for a smartphone with a USB and auxiliary connection, as a standard or optional feature, depending on the level of finish.
For motorhome customers, the PEUGEOT Boxer features a shut-off function to preserve the battery life when the vehicle is parked for long periods, as well as new ‘captain chair’ seats, which are even more comfortable.
Finally, the PEUGEOT Boxer now comes with a new ESP system which is specific to back-to-back cabs with an AL-KO chassis. Its calibrations suit a wide range of wheelbases, creating additional options for converting the PEUGEOT Boxer. These applications are available for motorhome or professional variants, up to the heavy versions with 2 or 3 axles.
Range summary
  • Two body styles: Panel and Window van
  • Panel and Window van can be specified in four lengths (L1, L2, L3 and L4) and three heights for the Panel van and two in the Window van
  • The range basic price (not including VAT) starts from £20,970, with Professional models from £21,970 and Window vans from £23,070.
  • Standard Panel van: Loadspace between 8m3 and 17m3, Payload between 1115kg and 1900kg
  • All models now feature: Bluetooth® with USB input, full steel buckhead, ESP, deadlocks
  • Professional Panel van features add: Air Conditioning, alarm, cruise control and speed limiter, rear parking aid, touchscreen with integrated navigation
PEUGEOT anniversaries in 2016
  • 120 years since PEUGEOT Automobiles business was established and produced its own engines
  • 115 years since the first PEUGEOT Bebé was launched – it became a ‘style leader’
  • 100 years since PEUGEOT won the Indianapolis Grand Prix for the second time (wins 1913/1916/1919)
  • 80 years since the launch of the 402 (produced as a Limousine, Coupé, Cabriolet and Coach)
  • 75 years since the VLV - the first production electric car
  • 60 years since the launch of the 403 Cabriolet – made famous as the car of ‘Columbo’ on TV
  • 50 years since the launch of the 204 Coupé, Cabriolet and Fourgonnette (van)
  • 40 years since the 504 won the Morocco Rally and the 504 V6 Coupé won the Bandama Rally
  • 35 years since PEUGEOT Sport was formed, combining all the skills in one Competitions Department
  • 30 years since the 205 T16 won the World Rally Championship for the second time (wins in 1985/1986)
  • 25 years since the launch of the compact 106
  • 20 years of the Partner (commercial van and passenger vehicle) – one of the UK’s best-selling LCVs
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