LA Auto Show: 2011 Volkswagen EOS

VW has releases the first images and official details for the 2011 Volkswagen Eos facelift which will have its world debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show at the beginning of next month. Sales in Europe will begin in mid January 2011.

The 2011 Volkswagen Eos facelift comes with BlueMotion technology and a newly developed Start/Stop system that work together to reduce the vehicles fuel consumption and CO2 emissions level. For example, the 2011 Volkswagen Eos 2.0 TDI, that outputs 103 kW / 140 PS, offers now a 4.8 l/100 km fuel consumption, which is 0.7 l/100 km lower than the previous version.

On the styling front, the convertible features redesigned bumpers, modified headlights, a revised grille, and LED taillights. Inside, the cabin boasts a new multi-function display and optional 'Cool' leather seats which reflect sunlight and heat. Tech goodies include Light Assist (which automatically switches between high- and low beams), Park Assist, and Keyless Access.

The 2011 Eos has received multiple equipment additions, such as a multi-function color Premium display, Lights Assist, the second generation of the Park Assist, Keyless Access.
The vehicle’s engine range includes one diesel unit and three petrol units. The diesel is a 140 hp unit that can be mated to a six-speed manual or to a six-speed DSG automatic. The entry-level petrol unit is a 122 hp 1.4 TSI, which is followed by a 160 hp incarnation of the same engine and by a 210 hp 2.0 TSI engine (this is borrowed from the Golf GTI). All the petrol units come with a six-speed manual transmission, while the range-topper can be ordered with a six-speed DSG gearbox.

The interior has been revised to play up the center stack of controls. New materials are said to give the Eos a higher sense of quality. A new steering wheel has been specified, too.

Pricing for the 2011 Volkswagen Eos remains unchanged from the just-superseded version; $46,990 for the Eos 103TDI and $48,990 for the Eos 155TSI, excluding on-road costs.




Press Release

Volkswagen has unveiled the new face of the Eos convertible coupé ahead of its public debut at the Los Angeles Motor Show on 17 November.

The modifications bring the Eos in line with the latest iteration of Volkswagen’s design language as seen applied to the new Polo, Passat and Sharan. Horizontal lines dominate the front of the car with a prominent new grille complete with chrome highlights that create the impression that the Eos is wider and lower than the car it replaces. A set of new headlight units, similar in shape to those fitted to the Golf, features the option of integrated LED daytime running lights to lend the revised Eos an elegant new look.

A revised front bumper featuring new airdams and fog lights is joined by a reprofiled bonnet. At the back of the car a set of new tail lights, drawing on the look of those fitted to the new Passat, creates a distinctive new appearance.

As before, the Eos features an advanced five piece folding roof with an integrated tilt sliding glass sunroof. To go from a closed coupé to an open cabriolet – an operation that can now be undertaken remotely via the key fob if the car is specified with Keyless Entry – takes just 25 seconds while the boot capacity ranges from 205 litres when the roof is down up to 380 litres with the roof closed.

Inside, new trim finishes enhance the interior of the Eos which is both comfortable and extremely well equipped. Highlights include a leather multifunction steering wheel, air conditioning, a powerful eight-speaker CD stereo system and sports seats.

The new Eos will be available with a range of efficient petrol and diesel engines when deliveries commence in the UK early in 2011. These include a 1.4-litre TSI engine developing 122 PS, a 2.0-litre TSI unit producing 210 PS as well as a refined 2.0-litre TDI engine producing 140 PS. This unit, with BlueMotion Technology modifications including automatic Stop/Start and battery regeneration systems, can return a combined economy of 58.8 mpg.

Prices and specifications for the new Eos will be announced when ordering opens for the car in November.

2011 RSC Raptor GT

Manufactured in Germany, RSC’s newest supercar sports a front-mid-engine design and is rear-wheel drive. The RSC Raptor GT is powered by a 2.6-liter rotary engine that's available in four versions, with power outputs ranging from 500 hp, to 1,200 hp. The RSC Raptor GT S is the base model, equipped with Dry Sump, it develops 500 hp. The RSC Raptor GT RS has a water-to-air turbocharger system and develops 800 hp and the RSR has a twin-turbo and outputs a massive 1,200 hp.

The Raptor GT will be sold with different spec-variants called the GT S, RS, RSR and N-spec. Depending on which model, engine configurations vary and include a water-to-air inter-cooled turbo or a bi-turbo system. The engine is coupled to an 8-speed RSC R-Shift transmission with a hydraulic shift mechanism which makes gear changes in 25 to 35 milliseconds.

Inside, the RSC Raptor GT is also said to feature a pair of seven-inch digital displays coupled with a five-inch tachometer, gear indicator and shift lights, the entire package supposedly weighing in at a claimed 2,425 pounds. RSC also plans an all-wheel drive, mid-engine project with similar specs, which seems like a lot to bite off while they still appear to be chewing on this one.

Depending on the model, the body is of 80% glass fiber or carbon fiber and differs in details in the form and aerodynamics. The interior will get two 7" full-graphic-Diyplays, high-quality materials like carbon fiber, brushed aluminum and various types of leather.





Press Release

Rotary Super Cars Germany is a young company with the goal of offering symbiosis of high performance vehicles and active environment to create new benchmarks in the areas, power efficiency, value for money or the use of high-tech materials.

Since there is no vehicle that meets all these requirements, the construction of the RSC Raptor GT™ started in 2009. Systems such as the VAS (variable aerodynamic system) were developed and brought to small series production. This vehicle meets all requirements or exceed them. With enthusiasm and passion of our team involved in the development and production of the Raptor GT™. We guarantee the best workmanship and highest individuality. The selective use of proven components increases the active/passive safety while reducing production costs, which ultimately benefits every buyer.

With the Raptor GT™, we give our customers the opportunity to experience the unique combination of high end components and environmental protection on the roads and racetracks of the world. The Raptor GT™ doesn't follow the standard in many areas, he goes a very unique way with his drive and approach design. Each vehicle is handmade and unique, which corresponds exactly to the needs and wishes of the owner.

Drivetrain:
The RSC Raptor ™ GT S, RS, RSR and N-Spec does not have a conventional drive system as used in most of today's super sports cars. He has a self-developed and heavily modified, based on parts of the Mazda 13B MSP, high-performance engine with four rotors (4-Rotor rotary engine) and, depending on the model, a water-to-air intercooled turbo or biturbo system. This engine is the heart of the RSC Raptor GT™ and gives him his very special temperament. The power output of a rotary engine uniformly grows with increasing rpm. The high-performance engine in the RSC Raptor GT™ has the redline set depending on the selected driving mode, up to 7,500 rpm or 9000 rpm. The fuel E85 is used, which is produced from rapeseed. By using this fuel to reduce the emissions by about 90% is feasible.

The sequential 8-speed RSC R-SHIFT transmission in the RSC Raptor GT™ is controlled by a hydraulic shift system with shift times of 25-35 milliseconds. Furthermore, each RSC Raptor GT™ has a carbon-aluminum drive shaft, and an electronically controlled rear axle differential.

The powertrain is controlled by an engine management system, specifically developed from Bosch Engineering GmbH for the RSC Raptor GT™, including a complete electronic system consisting of ESP, ABS, EBD, VAS, R-TRAC (traction control), R-DIFF (electronic differential) and a Launch Control. The RSC Raptor GT™ RSR and N-Spec also has an active suspension. All electronic systems can be easily operated via the buttons on the steering wheel.

Body/Chassis:
Depending on the model the body of the RSC Raptor GT™ is of 80% glass fiber or carbon fiber and differs in details in the form and aerodynamics. Furthermore a wide range of special equipment is available. Starting with the rims, complete body equipment packages up to the painting - the customer has no limits.

The RSC Raptor GT™ also has the RSC VAS™ (Variable Aerodynamic System), a system that changes the aerodynamics and the aerodynamic properties of the RSC Raptor GT™ to generate more downforce at high speeds. This system include SBS (Speed Brake System).

Interior:
The RSC Raptor GT™ has two 7" full-graphic-Diyplays, where various telemetry data such as speed, mileage, temperatures, pressures, and the chosen vehicle settings and many other data, are available. These displays create exciting visual effects that show the high-tech genes of the RSC Raptor GT™. They are placed on the left and right of the large 5" tachometer with digital gear indicator and shift light. The driver is always looking at the relevant information and driving a RSC Raptor GT™ becomes a special experience.

The cockpit offers an unique combination of high-quality materials like carbon fiber, brushed aluminum and various types of leather. Many interior equipment packages are available. There also no limits for the customer.

Production levels of the RSC Raptor GT range from the base 500 hp 2.6L 4 rotor rotary to 800 hp turbo and 1.200 hp twin turbo variants. The cars are built in Germany. They are available in left- and right-hand drive configuration.

VelociRaptor:
The second car which is currently in the construction phase. The main facts: Mid-engine, AWD, 8-speed sequential RSC R-SHIFT transmission, RSC VAS, 90% carbon fiber, over 1.200 hp and a weight under 1.100 kg.
This car will set new benchmarks...

Rotary Super Cars Germany
(+49)1511 75 500 98

Paris Preview: Mini Scooter E Concept

BMW has releases the MINI Scooter E Concepts that will officially debut at the Paris Auto Show next week. Created to bring together a youth-oriented lifestyle element and sustainable mobility, the scooters take significant design cues from the MINI lineup of cars while using a lithium-ion battery pack to deliver guilt-free mobility.

Mini's moped is, predictably, an uncannily retro two-wheeler. The step-through design, front fender, and curved body all bear a striking resemblance to vintage Lambretta scooters. Appropriate, we suppose, given the Lambretta -- like the Mini itself -- was once tied to the British Mod scene in the 1960s. Minor cues, including the chrome trim on the leg shield, the round projector headlamp, spoiler-like grab handle, and twin taillights do help tie the Scooter E to its four-wheeled Mini siblings.

Design-wise, the Scooter E Concept takes many cues from the MINI paradigm. The large wheels, 11-inch rims, give the scooter a bulky look, while the headlight unit is also sizable and round and the Scooter E features upright taillights similar to the MINI Countryman.

Apart from the compact battery, a charging system and connecting cable are integrated snugly in the rear of the MINI Scooter E Concept. The charging cable has a plug which fits into any conventional domestic socket. This has the major advantage that topping up the energy reserve does not depend on a special charging station being available. Stop-offs for shopping or visiting a café can be used for hassle-free battery recharging.

The three concepts, styled by a small team in Munich, Germany, under the guise of BMW Group design boss Adrian von Hooydonk, will be used to gauge public reaction before Mini decides whether or not to press ahead with a premium-priced electric scooter.

Source: BMW




Press Release

Urban driving fun with zero emissions: The MINI Scooter E Concept.

Spontaneous, flexible, CO2-free mobility in the characteristic style of the brand - World-first transfer of that familiar MINI feeling to the two-wheel segment brings alternative drive technology to the attention of lifestyle-led target groups - Innovative vehicle concept marks its world premiere at the 2010 Paris Motor Show.

Munich/Paris. Hardly a year has gone by since the launch of the MINI E, and MINI is at it again, opening up fascinating prospects for urban mobility that reduce CO2 emissions without any compromises on spontaneity and independence. The MINI Scooter E Concept transfers the brand's hallmark driving fun to the two-wheel segment for the first time. Equally unique features are the link between the scooter's alternative drive concept and its unmistakable design, intelligent functionality and detailed personalisation options in true MINI style. The MINI Scooter E Concept is powered by an electric motor integrated in the rear wheel. The motor's lithium-ion battery can be recharged at any conventional power socket using an on-board charging cable. The concept study, which is being launched as a world premiere at the 2010 Paris Motor Show, meets the mobility aspirations of a target group that sets store by premium quality and advanced technology as well as placing sustainability on a par with individual style and an emotional driving experience. The MINI Scooter E Concept also highlights new ways of attracting in particular a young audience to the MINI brand.

Once again, this study by the MINI design team has furnished evidence of a special strength exhibited by the brand: the ability to identify new challenges for mobility in major urban areas at an early stage and to meet those needs with innovative vehicle concepts. 51 years ago, the world's first concept for a small car focused consistently on efficient use of space and driving fun to create the platform for the classic Mini. The design principles applied to the brand's forebear all those years ago define the segment for small cars and compacts to this day. As the world's first premium small car, the MINI has been an unparalleled success following the relaunch of the brand in 2001. More than 1.7 million vehicles have been sold worldwide, providing impressive testimony to the potential even in this segment for generating a desire to embrace a successful combination of driving fun, quality, striking design and individual style.

The design of the MINI Scooter E Concept also incorporates current changes in urban mobility requirements. Its heritage of more than 50 years has seen the MINI brand following the principle of promoting individual mobility with optimum use of space implemented on the smallest possible footprint. This principle is now being applied to the brand's first two-wheel vehicle, offering seats for up to two people within remarkably compact dimensions. The study also embodies the first two-wheel concept to combine a sustainable drive technology with design features geared to lifestyle.

Typical MINI design - a world first on two wheels.

The MINI Scooter E Concept, making its world debut in two individual design versions, opens up a whole host of options for enjoying the driving fun associated with MINI while at the same time being immediately recognisable as a true ambassador of the brand. This synthesis has been achieved by the systematic transfer of fundamental MINI design principles to the new vehicle concept and through an authentic reinterpretation of unique details. The design language and wealth of individual details embodied in the two-wheel study are based on the current production models of the MINI brand.

Clearly defined proportions and smoothly contoured lines lend the MINI Scooter E Concept an aesthetic appearance that evinces significant parallels to the brand's cars. The relationship between the size of the wheels and the vehicle as a whole play a significant role here. The 11-inch rims of the MINI Scooter E Concept give the study a powerful and robust appearance, emulating the profile of MINI cars. The alignment of the contours enhances this impression from the side by clearly defining the front and rear of the vehicle before sweeping up towards each other at virtually identical angles. The windshield of the MINI Scooter E Concept is angled in an upright position similar to that of the front windshield in MINI cars. The curvature designed into the sides also displays parallels with the transitions of a windshield in the MINI as it merges into the A-pillars.

Round headlights with independent contour, windshield with an aperture in MINI radiator grille style.

The front view of the MINI Scooter E Concept is dominated by a remarkably large, round headlight unit. Similar to the headlights of the MINI Countryman, the headlight contour diverges slightly from the original circular shape, and both designs are influenced by the geometry of the surrounding surfaces. The independent contour of the headlight unit in the MINI Countryman matches the brawny, curved wheel arches and the robust radiator grille, while on the MINI Scooter E Concept it takes its cue from the low-slung windshield. The headlight unit tapers upwards and features a chrome surround, creating a strong profile in characteristic MINI style. The circular shape of the main headlight interior is highlighted by an illuminated coloured ring.

Projecting indicators, meanwhile, invoke the front view of the classic Mini. The glass covers for the flasher lamps are enclosed in chrome fames and curve slightly outwards to resemble the historic profile.

A stylised aperture in the windshield configured below the headlight contributes to the front profile so typical of the brand, its shape mimicking the contour of the hexagonal radiator grille in MINI cars. This design element also has a chrome frame, while the impression of familiarity is further enhanced by the MINI brand logo above it. The windshield itself is framed by a wraparound plastic surround. Each of the two study versions also has individually matched paintwork for the windshield, wheel covers and fairing enclosing the frame. A contrasting colour is applied to the surface of each of the windshields, and the range of hues in the paintwork reflects the light and shade effects on the curved engine bonnet of a MINI four-wheeler.

Inimitably MINI: chrome elements, round mirrors and two upright tail lights.

Other chrome elements are evident on the hand grip at the back of the seat and on the footrest. The hand grip is shaped like the rear spoiler of the MINI Cooper S, while a continuous band of chrome positioned directly below the seat recalls the side sill on MINI cars.

The rear-view mirrors on the MINI Scooter E Concept likewise display familiar characteristics in their shape and their size in proportion to the vehicle. This applies to the round contour of the mirror surfaces, the eye-catching volume of the hemispherical casing, as well as the different mirror cap designs that permit additional individualisation options.

Another characteristic design feature is reinterpreted at the rear of the MINI Scooter E Concept: the two tail light units are mounted on the outside of the rear wheel fairing in an upright position. A transparent glass cover recalls the MINI Countryman and provides a view of the three-dimensional structure of the tail lights, brake lights and indicators. Each of the tail light units on the MINI Scooter E Concept is mounted in a chrome frame and the MINI logo is positioned between the tail lights.

One concept, two characters.

The exceptional potential of the new mobility concept is underscored by the parallel presentation of two design concepts. These two versions highlight the key features of the study - driving fun, sustainability, sportiness and lifestyle orientation - with an individual focus. The concepts have different functionalities in terms of the number of seats: the MINI Scooter E Concept is presented in a version developed to support driving fun for two people and in an emphatically sporty, thoroughbred version with a seat designed for the rider alone.

The colour design of the two-seater version of the MINI Scooter E Concept is based on the appearance of the MINI E, which highlights its emission-free drive concept in a particularly striking way. The livery designed in matt anthracite creates an attractive contrast with the seat finished in yellow, with the iridescent colour of the windshield around the headlight unit and the yellow mirror caps providing further accentuating features. The surface of the seat is made of tough fabric material, with a yellow strip bordering the lower part of the seat.

In each of the two versions of the MINI Scooter E Concept, this strip sweeps downwards from the front of the seat into the frame fairing and continues along the edge of the footrest towards the front, where it also runs around the windshield. This creates a visual boundary between the body of the scooter and the rider/passenger area including the foot space and cockpit.

The design of the second version of the MINI Scooter E Concept is steeped in the brand's heritage and British origins. Primarily designed for solo riders, this version represents the sportier version of the new vehicle concept. Its British Racing Green finish harks back to classic racing cars, with the sparkle of the paintwork lending a particularly distinguished, high-quality aura to this new interpretation. The seat is upholstered in dark brown leather and the surface has an artifically created "used look". Attractive contrasts to the dark-green body colour are provided by silver mirror caps and paintwork around the headlight unit in the windshield that flips between green and silver.

Progressive, stylish, uncomplicated operation.

The MINI Scooter E Concept is a rallying call for spontaneous riding enjoyment. This is fostered by intuitive operation and agile ride characteristics. Thoroughbred mobility in hallmark MINI style entails vehicle handling that is completely intuitive and needs no further explanation. That applies to the immediate activity of riding as well as charging the lithium-ion battery. The operating concept is also directed towards enabling straightforward and effortless use of the other functions designed to enhance driving fun.

This challenge is met by an innovative way of integrating mobile devices. The cockpit of the MINI Scooter E Concept comprises a Centre Speedo in the circular shape familiar from MINI, with a smartphone integrated in the middle. The wraparound speedometer is in the form of a tube filled with fluid, the content expanding in line with the speed rather like a thermometer. In the lower area of the Centre Speedo, a battery charge level display indicates the range currently available. The design of all the control elements for lights, direction indicators and other driving functions corresponds to the buttons on the multifunction steering wheel of MINI cars.

Smartphones as key, display and central control element.

The inside of the round instrument comprises a snap-in adapter for a smartphone, which operates simultaneously as the vehicle key, display and central control element. As soon as the rider docks his mobile phone and switches it on, the vehicle is ready to go. This configuration in the MINI Scooter E Concept yields new initiatives for integrating infotainment, communication and navigation functions in a two-wheeler. While the scooter is in motion, the smartphone can be used as a navigation system, music player or telephone as required. A wireless Bluetooth interface can be connected to a helmet from the MINI Collection. This is fitted with a microphone and headphones so that riders are able to use the telephone function or access their personal music collection while on the road.

The innovative operating concept creates a network between the rider, the vehicle and the environment which paves the way for numerous new interactive functions. Building on the MINI Connected services already available in current MINI production cars, specific features can be implemented by adding further smartphone applications. For example, the navigation function can be supplemented by a special map view in Google Maps which indicates the current position of other scooters from the brand in the immediate vicinity. This provides a feature similar to social networks on the internet where riders who are friends can be identified and invited to come together on a whim by simply pressing a button. A greeting function has also been developed for the MINI Scooter E Concept to further strengthen the community appeal and highlight the friendly and open-minded personality of this vehicle. An automated full-beam headlight function that operates when two vehicles meet strengthens this sense of community.

MINI Centre Rail in an innovative design and with specific accessories.

Alongside the intuitive control and interactive functions, the advanced functionality of the MINI Scooter E Concept also contributes to its intuitive and compelling operation. Two compartments on the inside of the windshield are available for stowing personal items. The study also incorporates an innovative aluminium design of the MINI Centre Rail first presented in the MINI Countryman. The mounting rail configured inside the windshield extends downwards into the foot space, and the unique clip-on mechanism offers a range of options for transporting items that are required during the journey or at the rider's destination. These items are stored so that they easily come to hand.

Dedicated Centre Rail specifications are offered for each version of the concept. The universal mounting system means that they can be switched between vehicles at any time or complemented by other products from the MINI Accessories range for the MINI Countryman. The accessories for the Centre Rail include tailor-made holders from the MINI Collection for the helmet as well as for umbrellas, sunglasses and thermos flasks. An additional closed compartment and an expanded rain guard to protect the rider's legs can also be easily connected to the Centre Rail. A music player, calendar, stopwatch and tea cups specially designed for the MINI Scooter E Concept can also be attached to the Centre Rail.

All you need is a power socket: maximum independence guaranteed by an integrated charging cable.

When riding the MINI Scooter E Concept, brief stops can be used to top up the on-board energy storage system. Consistent charging significantly increases independence and flexibility when using the electrically powered two-wheeler. The electric drive unit, concealed beneath a painted cover inside the rear wheel, is powered by electricity supplied from a lithium-ion battery. Apart from the compact battery, a charging system and connecting cable are integrated snugly in the rear of the MINI Scooter E Concept. The charging cable has a plug which fits into any conventional domestic socket. This has the major advantage that topping up the energy reserve does not depend on a special charging station being available. Stop-offs for shopping or visiting a café can be used for hassle-free battery recharging.

Plugs and cables are accommodated underneath a cover similar to the round tank flap in a MINI car. After opening the illuminated flap, the plug and charging cable can be pulled out to a length of up to five metres and connected to the power system. After the battery has been charged up, a button-operated spring mechanism ensures that the cable is retracted and coiled in a space-saving compartment.

MINI Scooter E Concept: innovative, sustainable, lifestyle-oriented - in other words, a true MINI.

Urban driving fun enters a new dimension with the MINI Scooter E Concept. This innovative mobility concept embodies a combination of sustainability and lifestyle unprecedented in the two-wheel segment. Both facets are showcased particularly convincingly by the MINI brand. A period spanning more than 50 years has seen this brand representing leading-edge vehicle concepts that encompass environmental and economic aspects while satisfying the desire for spontaneous driving fun and individual style. In its time, the classic Mini became the icon of a new kind of mouldbreaking mobility in modern urban environments. The MINI Scooter E Concept similarly delivers alternative solutions for the shifting requirements in today's urban traffic landscape. Its design in typical MINI style incorporates a pioneering operating concept and comprehensive options for creating a personalised vehicle, taking account of the sophisticated requirements of young, environmentally aware target groups who are open to new trends.

The MINI Scooter E Concept represents the first mobility concept in this vehicle segment to bring sustainability and lifestyle into harmony. The MINI Scooter E Concept represents a means of conveyance that is as classless as the classic Mini in its time. Easy operation and agile handling offer ideal conditions for giving young drivers a fascinating entry into the world of the MINI brand. At the same time, the concept will appeal to style-conscious and environmentally aware car drivers who are interested in an attractive adjunct or a longer-term alternative to their accustomed form of personal mobility.

The drive concept incorporated in the study also underpins the consistent development efforts of the BMW Group in its quest to achieve CO2-free mobility. The electric drive plays a key role in this endeavour and allows the MINI Scooter E Concept to deliver the driving fun associated with the brand in a new and highly contemporary package. The instantaneous pick-up of electric drive systems, plus the vehicle's low weight and compact dimensions, ensure maximum agility in typical traffic conditions on urban roads. These features and the simple operation of the charging system make the MINI Scooter E Concept a pioneering symbol of independent, flexible and spontaneous mobility.

Audi R8 GT New Photos and Pricing

Audi has released in depth information and photos for the new R8 GT. The output of its 5.2-liter V10 has been increased to 560hp; vehicle weight has been reduced by roughly 220.46 lb. The R8 GT accelerates from 0-62mph) in 3.6 seconds and reaches a top speed of 198.84mph.

The added performance is due in part to a 100 kilogram (220 lb) weight reduction. To cut the fat, engineers installed a thinner windshield, polycarbonate bulkheads, and fiber-glass reinforced plastic seats. All told, the R8 GT tips the scales at 1,525 kilograms (3,362 lb).

The design is influenced by the black painted front grille, by the extension of carbon front spoiler, by the LED lights for all lights, by the side carbon fiber air intakes and by the new side mirrors. Not missing the special GT logos, the pronounced carbon fiber rear spoiler, the exhausts embedded in the rear bumper, the taillights on a black background and the 19-inch alloy wheels. The supercar will be available in colors like Samoa Orange, Suzuka Gray, Ice Silver and Phantom Black with pearl effect.

Other Audi options include a full leather package, power-adjustable and heated seats, a multifunction steering wheel, an Alcantara rear shelf, a storage package, controls covered in leather with contrasting stitching, cruise control and a higher-capacity 90-liter fuel tank. A rotary lock for the four-point belt is also available.

Pricing starting at EUR193,000 in Germany and delivered starting next spring.

Source: Audi




Press Release

The Audi R8 GT

Now even more dynamic, lighter, more powerful and faster: Audi is launching a limited-production version of its R8 high-performance sports car - the R8 GT. The output of its 5.2-liter V10 has been increased to 412 kW (560 hp); vehicle weight has been reduced by roughly 100 kilograms (220.46 lb). The R8 GT accelerates from zero to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 3.6 seconds and reaches a top speed of 320 km/h (198.84 mph). The efficient direct-injection engine consumes only 13.9 liters of fuel per 100 km (16.92 US mpg) on average. The engineers have reduced the weight of the Audi R8 GT drastically once again compared to the R8 5.2 FSI quattro. With quattro permanent all-wheel drive (and without a driver), the Audi high-performance sports car tips the scales at just 1,525 kilograms (3,362 lb), for a power-to-weight ratio of only 2.72 kilograms (6 lb) per hp. In addition to the aluminum Audi Space Frame body, a number of new components made of carbon fiber composite play a decisive role in the car's low weight. The R8 GT is a driving machine with breathtaking lateral acceleration and lightning-fast, nearly instantaneous reactions. The 19-inch wheels keep the car planted firmly on the asphalt, and the carbon fiber ceramic brakes easily keep the power under control. The R8 GT gives a whole new meaning to the term "high-performance sports car."

Design and aerodynamics

The design of the Audi R8 GT is an expression of highly concentrated power and a technical sculpture. As always with Audi, it concentrates on the pure essence and remains free of unnecessary decorations. The dimensions allude to the contours of the vehicle's dynamics - 4.43 meters (14.53 ft) long, wheelbase of 2.65 meters (8.69 ft), and 1.93 meters (6.33 ft) wide, but only 1.24 meters (4.07 ft) tall.

The Audi designers have made numerous modifications to the exterior, many of which serve to lower the weight and further improve the aerodynamics.

The R8 GT produces even more downforce when driven fast than the production model - without any increase in the Cd value of 0.36 or frontal area of 1.99 m2 (21.42 sq ft).

The frame of the single-frame grille, its struts and the slats in the air intakes are matt titanium gray; the grille is painted matt black. The front splitter under the bumper has a double lip and is made of a carbon fiber composite (CFRP). Slender, elegantly curved flics at the corners of the nose increase the downforce on the front axle and are also made of CFRP.

One characteristic highlight of the Audi R8 GT are the standard LED headlights, which use light-emitting diodes for all functions. They produce bright, homogeneous light, have a long service life and low energy consumption. The headlights also give the new top model of the R8 line an unmistakable look, day or night. The reflectors are reminiscent of open mussel shells; the daytime running lights each comprise 24 LEDs and appear as a continuous band.

The side view of the R8 GT is dominated by the sideblades, which direct air to the engine. They, too, are made of matt carbon fiber composite. The same material is used for the housings of the side mirrors with the LED turn signals. The housings are mounted on an aluminum base with broken-out slats. Audi has developed an exclusive five twin-spoke Y design in a titanium-look finish for the 19-inch wheels. The front fenders bear R8 GT badges, and the sill extensions have been widened.

The modifications to the rear of the car are particularly noticeable. The fixed wing of matt carbon fiber composite is mounted to the body with two bars and saves 1.2 kilograms (2.65 lb) of weight compared to the production solution. The ventilation louvers on both sides of the long rear hatch have been redesigned, as has the CFRP bumper, which frames the large, round tailpipes and vents for the wheel wells.

The larger diffuser is also made of carbon fiber composite; the license plate bezel and the wide slats at the rear are finished in matt titanium gray. The tail lights, which like the front headlights are designed with LED technology, have dark housings with panes of clear glass. The R8 GT is available in four body colors: Samoa Orange, metallic; Ice Silver, metallic; and Phantom Black, pearl effect; Suzuka Gray, matt is available as an option.

Body

The car on which the Audi R8 GT is based - the R8 5.2 FSI quattro - adheres strictly to Audi's lightweight construction philosophy, weighing just 1,625 kilograms (3,583 lb) with the standard quattro drive but without the driver. In keeping with the classic ASF technology, its body is made of aluminum. Cast nodes and extruded sections form a very high-strength frame, to which the aluminum body panels are joined by means of positive and friction connections. Ultra lightweight magnesium is used as the material for the engine frame.

The space frame body, which is largely hand-built in a complex fabrication process at the production shop at the Neckarsulm site, weighs only 210 kilograms (463 lb). It is very crash-worthy, and lays the foundation for the uncompromisingly precise handling and high vibrational comfort of the Audi R8 GT.

In light of this background, the mandate to save another 100 kilograms (220 lb) of weight was a great challenge for the Audi engineers. They solved it in their own characteristic way - with high-tech expertise and an approach that incorporated every field of technology. In the end the scales came to rest at 1,525 kilograms (3,362 lb) without the driver.

The windshield of the R8 GT is made of thinner glass. The bulkhead between the passenger cell and the engine compartment is made of a strong, lightweight polycarbonate, as is the window in the rear hatch that allows the V10 engine to be seen in all its technical glory. These three modifications amount to a weight reduction of nine kilograms (19.84 lb). The Audi engineers used thinner sheet metal and additional cutouts to shave 2.6 kilograms (5.73 lb) from the aluminum hatch over the 100 liter (3.53 cu ft) luggage compartment at the front of the car.

The rear hatch of the high-performance sports car also had a lot to do with the weight reduction. It is a self-supporting structure made of carbon fiber-reinforced plastic - an advantage of 6.6 kilograms (14.55 lb). The rear bumper and the sideblades of this same material save an additional 5.2 and 1.5 kilograms (11.46 and 3.31 lb), respectively. With its minimal weight and extremely high strength, CFRP is the ideal material for a high-performance sports car, and Audi has broad-based experience in its use.