Rolls-Royce enters the 21st Century with 102EX Phantom Electric Vehicle

If there was ever a car that made sense as an EV (electric vehicle), it's the Rolls-Royce Phantom (especially now that London and other cities have banned gas-powered vehicles from their streets during the business day). What Rolls is showing at the Geneva Motor Show is the limo of the 21st Century, the R-R 102EX - Phantom Experimental Electric (EE). With help from parent company BMW, Rolls is looking at drivetrain alternatives as it looks towards the future. Rolls removes the Phantom's 6.75-liter V12 engine and replaces it with a lithium ion battery pack and two electric motors mounted on the rear sub-frame. Top speed is limited to 99 mph with the EE hitting 60 in 8.0 seconds (regular Phantom hits 60 in 5.7seconds). The Phantom EE can be charged at home (20 hours) or at re-charging stations (8 hours) and an induction charging system is being tested where the car is charged without being plugged in, say while parked. Good idea. The charging ports are where the fuel fillers used to be and include LEDs to reflect charging status (pic after the jump). Even the Spirit of Ecstacy hood sculpture is bathed in a blue glow. The interior leathers were treated with new vegetable tanning methods that create less waste and use no oil by-products. There is very little about the Phantom EE that isn't being reviewed to find new and better methods. Rolls is asking for input from owners and others at a special website: www.electricluxury.com. For more information, check out the press release after the jump. Oh yea and the "concept" is a really pretty color called Atlantic Chrome (20+ coats) made of a new highly reflective paint using ceramic nano particles.

Source: Rolls-Royce - Extensive press release after the jump.

New BMW Z4 package offers Design Pure Balance

I love sports cars, real ones, and the BMW Z4 is a favorite. For the Geneva Motor Show, BMW is introducing the Design Pure Balance package that adds Cohiba Brown leather with contrasting stitching, sports seats, FineLine Anthracite wood trim, black leather accents, and metallic paint finishes including the new Mineral White Metallic (shown, how cool is metallic white?). If you're like me and you love you some black paint, the DPB package is available with a few other colors. You can order your new Z4 with the new Design Pure Balance package this Summer.

Source: BMW - Brief press release after the jump,

VW is "Bulli" on the new Tranporter/Microbus Concept

I had one. A lot of folks did and I loved mine even though it seemed to go through clutch cables (my fault it turns out). Of course, I'm talking about the VW bus or Microbus as it was called in the US. In Europe it was known as the "Bulli" (no negative connotation intended) and VW's new interpretation of the idea shares the moniker. The new Bulli is a much smaller vehicle and debuts in Geneva as a front-wheel-drive (FWD) EV (as opposed to the rear-mounted gas engine of the original). The flat floor that is possible due to the electric drivetrain allows for a full bench front seat and lots of interior room in a vehicle with such a small footprint. While VW claims the design is not retro, it would be hard to confuse this car with anything else (heck, mine was red and white just like this new one). The design and fittings are purposely simplistic and the iPad mounted on the dash is a nice touch. Volkswagen rolls one of these concepts out every so often and threatens to produce it and I hope they do it with this one (in the release they talk about using a small gas or diesel engine also). This would certainly be the Microbus for the 21st Century.

Source: Volkswagen - Extensive press release and pics (2) after the jump.

Ford debuts new B-Max

Ford announced that the new C-Max people mover would be coming to the US in regular, Hybrid, and plug-in hybrid (Energi) forms and now the C-Max's littler brother, the B-Max, is debuting in Geneva. While the C-Max shares a platform with the new Focus, the B-Max is based on the new Fiesta. While the B-Max looks much larger, it is only a few inches longer than the Fiesta and a tad taller. The B-Max "concept" (this puppy's going into production) features Ford's new 1.0-liter EcoBoost three-cylinder engine that puts out power on par with larger inline-fours but with better economy using direct-injection and turbocharging.

The B-Max is a mini people mover that seats five with wide opening side doors that feature no "B" pillar for ease of entry/exit and loading. The rear seat is split 60/40 and folds flat as does the front passenger seat. The B-Max features an interior with black leather accents with contrasting bronze stitching and front seats with leather bolsters, combined with central panels trimmed with a black/brown high-performance fabric.The B-Max has all the goodies that Ford has been adding to their small cars that were previously only available in premium machines (like Sync, which is being introduced to Europe). Let's hope that Ford continues with their "global initiative" and brings the B-Max to the US. With gas prices soaring (it is reported that we may see $5/gallon this summer), small people movers like the B-Max make more sense than ever.

Source: Ford - Extensive press release and additional pics after the jump.

Bentley Supersports "Ice Speed Record" Convertible debuts

This car gives the phrase "go anywhere in style" new meaning. Bentley is debuting the new Supersports Convertible in Geneva in celebration of the new droptop's setting of a world "ice speed" record in Finland. Only 100 examples of the "Ice Speed Record" convertible will be produced featuring all-wheel-drive, the 631-hp FlexFuel W12 engine (mated to a beefed-up six-speed automatic), ceramic disc brakes, and all the luxury touches you'd expect from Bentley like a touchscreen infotainment system, a 30GB on-board hard drive, full leather with red piping, and much more. The dash features red carbon-fiber and the soft-top has a clear topping with twill inserts to give it a carbon-fiber look. The Ice Speed Record Convertible will hit 60 in 3.8 seconds and 100 in 9.8 seconds. Let's face it, if you've got the bucks, this is one fine luxo-cruiser that will beat most in the "stop-light grand prix." If you want one, ya better call your dealer now!

Source: Bentley - Press release, additional pics, and technical specs after the jump.

Th!nk shows new 2+2 in Switzerland

Th!nk has unveiled the City 2+2 in Geneva (shown above "winter equipped"). The first US-built Th!nk City EVs have been delivered to utilities and community offices in the Midwest and the 2+2 is the Th!nk model that is more consumer friendly allowing for more seating and space for daily driving. The Th!nk City 2+2 could make a great second or third car for many families (or only car for urban dwellers). Th!nk claims that operating the new EV would cost owners no more than two cents a mile (based on a 100 mile range on average), although cost will vary and could be free if you have solar panels on your home. I like the little vanlet (below) that has been converted into a coffee delivery vehicle. Cute.

Source: Th!nk - Press release after the jump.

Opel Zafira "Lounge on Wheels" makes Geneva debut

What you see here is the latest minivan/crossover thingy concept from GM division Opel, the Zafira "Lounge on Wheels." Why is this important for the US, you might ask? Well Ford has seen fit to bring its C-Max vehicles to the US, so a version of this vehicle may show up at a Chevy or Buick dealer in the future (let's hope the Zafira gets to keep Opel's headlight "wings" when it makes the trip - listening Buick?). The Zafira is attractive in a people mover kind of way and has a very nice interior that invokes some of the better interiors that GM has produced of late (I like the two-tone). The Flex7 seating should see production and the laptops mounted in the front seat backs add to the "corporate" feel. There is little here that couldn't be produced and the Zafira even in "base(r)" form would make a nice runabout. It looks "ready for prime-time" and few details would need to be changed for production. Heck, even the 20-inch wheels could be optional. GM promo video, pics, and the full press release are available after the jump for all the Zafira info.

Source: GM Europe - Press release, additional pics, and video after the jump.

Top Five Posts as of 2-27

While the post, Jeep celebrates 70th Anniversary with special editions continues to top the most read list, the 2012 ZL1 reveals Chevy performance Camaro-style (right) climbs to the number two spot.

Mazda Minagi to debut at the Geneva Motor Show came in at number three.

The post that dominated the most-read list for weeks dropped to number four, Jeep Black Ops Edition breaks cover.

Baby it's cold outside - Jeep Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited in the snow - with videos just for fun post finished off the list at number five. I guess it's a Jeep World after all (three of five).

Recent posts at uautoknow.net - Classic:

Chevrolet's Cruze compact (below) to get diesel power

Ford Fiesta becomes first subcompact to earn top safety ratings in the world's major markets

GM tries to sink Sync with MyLink

New Aston Martin Virage debuts

Ah the Grand Touring car. A Grand Tourer is a car that is fast, but not the fastest; handles the curves, but can handle pot-holed streets with out causing pain; and, most importantly, looks really, really, really good doing it. That is the new Aston Martin Virage and Virage Volante (Volante is Aston Martin speak for convertible). The Virage fits into the Aston line-up between the DB9 and the DBS using Aston's aluminum VH architecture. The V12 in the Virage makes 490 hp and puts the power to the road through a six-speed TouchTronic Automatic. Again, a Grand Tourer. The Virage has adjustable settings to sharpen shifts and steering response. The Virage has tremendous stopping power through the use of standard Carbon Ceramic Matrix (CCM) brakes, an option on most sports- and super-cars. The new front bumper design is simpler while incorporating front wings and LED lights along with the Bi-Xenon headlights. To put it simply, the Virage is stunning and very classy like all good Grand Tourers should be. Besides the Bridge of Weir leather, the Virage has a comprehensive standard features list including heated seats (Sports seats only), cruise control, satellite navigation, Bluetooth telephone preparation, and the powerful 700W Aston Martin Premium Audio System with Dolby® Pro Logic II® and full iPod® integration, and more. The new fully integrated Satellite Navigation system has been developed in conjunction with Garmin. If you can afford it (pricing will be announced at the Geneva Motor Show), you'll be hard pressed to find a more beautiful and capable Grand Tourer on the market today. Now if I could just win the lottery... The new Aston Martin Virage is currently available at your local Aston dealer (probably best to order exactly what you want - I would).

Source: Aston Martin - Press release and additional pics after the jump.

Saab celebrates its independence with special-edition 9-3 droptop

To celebrate the first anniversary of the Swedish carmaker's "independence" (from corporate ownership, ie: GM), Saab has released this special edition of the 9-3 Convertible. Based on the Aero Griffin 9-3 Convertible model, the special edition will include Amber Orange metallic paint; Five spoke, 18-inch alloy wheels with a satin chrome/black finish; orange trimmed beige sports leather seats; carbon-fiber look leather finish for the instrument panel, handbrake, gearshift molding and door handles; and a special instrument display, with turbo boost gauge. Only 366 9-3 Independence Special Edition convertibles will be built with either a 180 hp turbo diesel or a 220- turbo four mated to a six-speed manual or automatic. No official word on US importation, but don't expect to see many or any of these on this side of the pond.

Source: Saab - Press release after the jump.

2012 Infiniti M Hybrid pricing announced

In a previous post, I talked about the impressive EPA fuel economy numbers that the Infiniti M35 Hybrid achieved (27 mpg city/ 32 mpg/highway, 29 mpg combined). Now Infiniti has released the other numbers, aka cost. In mid March, the M35 Hybrid will grace dealer lots with a $53,700 (+ taxes, license, fees, options) sticker. That places the M35 Hybrid between the "base" M37 ($47,700 +) and the M56 AWD ($61,600 +) in Infiniti's pricing strategy. The M35 Hybrid is not a "stripper" either with standard features such as leather-appointed seats, 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, Active Noise Control, Infiniti Intelligent Key with Push Button Ignition, XM® Satellite Radio (XM® subscription required, sold separately), Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System and a power moonroof. Options include Blind Spot Warning (BSW), Blind Spot Intervention™ (BSI), Forest Air® system, Active Trace Control, Infiniti Hard Drive Navigation System, Bose® Studio Surround® premium audio system, Intelligent Cruise Control (Full-Speed Range), Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Lane Departure Prevention (LDP) systems. Fifty grand is a lot of money but you get 350 hp and 32 mpg on the highway wrapped in a sensuous automotive body. Black is still the best color though...

Source: Press release after the jump.

Summertime fun in the new VW Golf Cabriolet

What can I say, the Volkswagen Cabriolet is back (you can hear teen girls everywhere squealing). That is an unfair stereotypical statement especially since the new Golf Cabriolet has a more "manly" look and features all the equipment available in the regular Golf including the rear LED lights from the GTI. One new feature is the electro-hydraulically actuated, folding soft top that can be lowered in just 9.5 seconds. Standard safety features include an automatically deploying roll-over bar (which lets the new Cabriolet come to market without the permanently affixed "baskethandle" roll bar), front airbags, side head/thorax airbags, knee airbag for the driver, and ESP. Expect a similar engine line-up to what is now available in the Golf when the Cabriolet makes it to the US (don't know if that will include the diesel), but the top engine choice should be the 2.0-liter turbo four that makes 200 hp in the GTI with either a six-speed manual or VW's DSG dual-clutch automanual. No due date was given for VW's new arrival, but it is coming since the EOS (with its folding hardtop) will be moving up-market (read bigger).

Source: Volkswagen - Press release after the jump.

Jaguar's unleashes new XKR-S Update

If you like what you see in these pics, Jaguar has a cat for you, the XKR-S. Jaguar's most potent production car ever will hit 60 in 4.2 seconds and 100 in 8.6 seconds on the way to its 186 mph top speed. The XKR-S features an upgraded suspension, with adaptive control, and styling aero tweaks to separate the "S" from its more plebeian siblings. The XKR-S kicks of Jag's celebration of the 50th anniversary of the original E-Type or XKE as we know it. More to come...

Update: ...and here's the more. The full press release has been added along with a few new pics.

Source: Jaguar - Press releases (2), tech spec chart, and additional pics (3) after the jump.

Mini Rocketman takes to the Geneva stage

Mini's Rocketman Concept takes to the Geneva Motor Show with some new ideas and a few evolutions of Mini standards. The Rocketman is smaller than current production Minis and is closer in size to the original. The Rocketman uses lightweight materials to keep the poundage low for improved efficiency (94 mpg imp.) and lowered emissions. In fact, the carbon fiber construction materials can be seen inside and outside the car. The Rocketman seats 3+1 with three standard seats and one jump seat behind the driver that is for occasional use. The clear roof has bracing that calls to mind the UK's Union Jack and lighting further reinforces the effect. The side doors include the sills to allow for easy entry and exit and special hinges allow the doors to open even in tight city spaces (hinges are mounted on the outside of the spaceframe as on the original Mini). The tailgate includes a roof-hinged rear liftgate and a rear pull-out drawer. Lighting is by LEDs front and rear. Mini's concepts often see production, so it wouldn't be out of the realm of possibility to see the Rocketman, or something like it, out on the road. A smaller Mini makes sense and some of the concept's innovations may see production all over the Mini line-up. Check out the press release for more detailed information.

Source: Mini - Extensive press release and pics after the jump.

 

BMW creates new sub-brand

And no, BMW is not going to make submarines. It all started with the iMac, iPod, iPhone, and iPad - this naming convention using the lower case i to signify the latest and technologically advanced new products. And now BMW is the latest to use the "i" designation (logo shown right). The new BMW i-Series of vehicles covers those cars that don't fit in as a typical BMW. BMW's new MegaCity electric vehicle becomes the i3 and the plug-in hybrid supercar that is based on the Vision EfficientDynamics concept (pic after the jump) will become the i8 (although this supercar could definitely be a true BMW). The i-Series of vehicles will begin production and hit the market in 2013. Can't wait to see the i8. You? Check out the design animation and intro videos at the end of the press release after the jump. BMW is also using the "i" brand to invest in new technologies (such as NYC View) that create smartphone apps and other mobility services.

Source: BMW - Press release and videos (2) after the jump.

Dodge spreads the R/T around

Dodge has added five new R/T models to its vehicle line-up for 2011 in Charger, Challenger, Durango, Grand Caravan, and Journey form. They're not just slick trim packages either. Some models had R/T trim levels before like the Charger and Challenger. But what is interesting are the R/T models added to two of Dodge's more pedestrian models, the Grand Caravan and the Journey. Of course, the Durango, Charger, and Challenger R/Ts get Hemi V8s, spoilers, black grilles, sport seats, and handling suspensions as in the past. The new Grand Caravan and Journey R/Ts get a performance injection as well with Chrysler's new PentaStar V6 that puts out 283 hp, a lowered stance, styling tweaks, and suspension tunings that Chrysler folk say turn the Grand Caravan R/T into a "man van." Think of it, almost 300 horsepower in a minivan and small crossover. It boggles the mind doesn't it? The press release that follows the jump includes specific info and pics for each model (including pricing). Enjoy!

Source: Dodge - Very extensive press release and additional pics (12) after the jump.

Top five posts as of 2-20-11

This week's top five posts starts off with last week's numero uno, the Jeep celebrates 70th Anniversary with special editions post (70th Anniversary Wrangler Unlimited special edition pictured). The 70th Anniversary Jeep write-up took the #1 spot from the Jeep Black Ops Edition breaks cover post last week. The Jeep Black ops post had dominated the most page views log for weeks and is this weeks #2.

The rest of the top five are new to the list with the 2012 ZL1 reveals Chevy performance Camaro-style coming in at #3. The ZL1 Camaro is Chevy's answer to the Mustang GT500.

Number 4 is the Mazda Minagi to debut at the Geneva Motor Show post that shows Mazda's latest take on the crossover.

And rounding out the top five is the Honda shows new 2012 Civic at Detroit show in concept form post. What's interesting about this post is that I've posted the pics, info, and press release for the actual production 2012 Civic here. I guess Honda decided that they might as well release the pics of the actual car (below). The concepts are slicker, but the actual production cars are darn close.

Recent posts over at uautoknow.net - Classic:

GM tries to sink Sync with MyLink - GM's new infotainment system that will debut in the Chevy Volt and Equinox.

Lincoln shows new MKT Town Car for livery/limo service - with the old Town Car going out of production, Lincoln is providing a new way to travel in style.

Cadillac Shield to cover owners - Cadillac is offering full coverage (including routine maintenance) to match, or beat, other luxury car programs.

Rolls-Royce Spirit of Ecstacy celebrates 100 years - The sculpture that adorns the hood of every Rolls turns 100 this year and doesn't look it.

Is Hyundai's new i40 the rumored Sonata wagon?

Hyundai has released the first pics of their new i40 that will become the company's flagship in Europe. The front end of the i40 bears a striking resemblance to the new Elantra, but the company states that the i40 is a D-segment vehicle which in US-speak means mid-size, therefore Sonata (although the Elantra is considered mid-size by the EPA due to its large interior volume). The rear view is very Sonata-esque and the roofline is the latest expression of Hyundai's fluidic design language. It's a good-looking estate (European for stationwagon) and would (could?) make a nice addition to Hyundai's US line-up. Heck the i40 or Sonata Estate could get folks buying stationwagons again. If you like what you see, let Hyundai know. PS: I still think it's an Elantra or some kind of combination of the two, but what do I know?

Source: Hyundai - Brief press release after the jump.