Buick Unveils Regal GS

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• • 21st-century successor to Buick’s Gran Sport heritage
  • Bold, sporty design with unique exterior details and an aggressive stance
  • High-output Ecotec 2.0L turbocharged engine and six-speed manual transmission
  • Adaptive all-wheel-drive system and electronic limited-slip rear differential
  • 0-60 in less than 6.0 seconds
  • Buick’s class-exclusive Interactive Drive Control System

DETROIT – With an estimated 255 turbocharged horsepower (190 kW), a six-speed manual transmission and an advanced, adaptive all-wheel-drive system, the Buick Regal GS show car is a high-tech, high-performance version of the brand’s newest sport sedan. It was introduced at the 2010 North American International Auto Show.

The mechanical elements were developed with the aim of delivering a driving experience that is sporting, confidence-inspiring and refined. It has a performance-oriented drivetrain, a lowered body and lower center of gravity. Exterior and interior cues include two additional vertical front air intakes; large, forged aluminum 20-inch wheels and performance tires; a racing-inspired sport steering wheel and metal pedals. Recaro high-performance front seats feature four-way lumbar support and cushion extensions.

“We designed the Regal GS to explore the appeal of a high-performance variant of the Regal,” said Craig Bierley, product marketing director for Buick. “Like the Regal, the Regal GS is based on the award-winning Opel Insignia, and we believe it will reinvigorate Buick’s storied Gran Sport legacy.”

The Regal GS exterior is distinguished by vertical air inlets in the front fascia, as well as unique rocker panels, an integrated rear spoiler, dual exhaust outlets, Olympic White paint and satin metallic accents.

“The idea behind the Regal GS was taking the production model in a more aggressive direction to appeal to performance enthusiasts,” said John Cafaro, Buick design director. “But along with its aggressive stance, there’s sophisticated style in the design that complements the driving experience.”

Inside, the Regal GS varies from the standard Regal by featuring a completely jet black interior, including the pillars and headliner, sport shifter for the six-speed manual transmission and a suede-covered, flat-bottom steering wheel reminiscent of those used in international racing series. The instrument panel glows ice blue when the driver engages the sport mode of the Interactive Drive Control System (IDCS).

Turbocharged AWD performance

Power for the Regal GS comes from a high-output 2.0L Ecotec turbocharged engine with direct-injection technology. It is based on the engine that will be offered on Regal CXL models later this summer, but the engine and turbocharger are tuned to deliver greater boost pressure in the GS. The output is estimated at 255 horsepower (190 kW) and 295 lb.-ft. of torque (400 Nm).

The engine is mated to a six-speed manual transmission that directs torque to an adaptive all-wheel-drive system calibrated for performance driving. An electronic, limited-slip rear differential helps ensure the engine’s power is distributed effectively during cornering.

The high-performance drivetrain is expected to enable the Regal GS to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in less than 6 seconds. That performance is complemented by a four-wheel-independent suspension, with a unique High Performance Strut (HiPerStrut) design in front. The HiPerStrut system helps reduce torque steer and maintain negative camber during cornering. This improves ultimate grip levels in dry and wet conditions, as well as improves the direct feel of the road, while isolating undesirable feedback. Behind the wheel the driver experiences reduced torque steer, improved grip and increased cornering power, along with crisper handling, steering precision and feedback.

The Regal GS features a high-performance Brembo brake system with 14 x 1.2-inch (355 x 32 mm) cross-drilled rotors; four-piston, high-strength aluminum calipers, and high-performance pads.

The Regal GS is also equipped with Interactive Drive Control System (IDCS) chassis technology (also offered on Regal CXL models with the 2.0L turbo engine). It delivers enhanced vehicle stability and greater driving safety, while also adapting the driving characteristics of the car to the driver’s preferences. The driver selects among three operating modes – normal, sport and GS – that change the suspension settings, throttle response and steering sensitivity through the variable-effort steering syst em.

About Buick

Buick is in the midst of a transformation that started with the Enclave luxury crossover and continues with the completely redesigned LaCrosse luxury sedan and Regal sport sedan. Buick is emerging as a modern, premium brand with vehicles characterized by sculpted designs, personal technologies, luxurious interiors and responsive performance. Future new sedans and crossovers are planned and will continue to expand Buick’s portfolio both in North America and China. More information can be found at www.buick.com.

BUICK REGAL GS SHOW CAR SPECIFICATIONS

Overview

Model:	Buick Regal GS show car
Body style / driveline:	four-door, 5-passenger, front engine, transaxle. All-wheel-drive midsize vehicle
Construction:	steel body-frame integral (unibody)

Engine/Transmission

	High-output 2.0L DOHC I-4 Turbo
Displacement (cu in / cc):	122 / 1998
Bore and stroke (in / mm):	3.39 x 3.39 / 86 x 86
Block material:	cast aluminum
Cylinder head material:	cast aluminum
Valvetrain:	overhead camshafts, four-valves per cylinder, continuous variable valve timing for intake and exhaust
Ignition system:	individual coil-on-plug
Fuel delivery:	direct injection with variable high-pressure rail and electronic throttle control
Compression ratio:	9.2:1
Horsepower (hp / kW):	255 / 190 (est.)
Torque (lb.-ft. / Nm):	295 / 400 (est.)
Transmission	6-speed manual

Chassis/Suspension

Front:	independent, HiPerStrut-type with dual-path mountings, specifically tuned coil springs, direct-acting stabilizer bar (hollow); hydraulic ride bushings; continuous damping control (Interactive Drive Control System)
Rear:	four-link independent rear; hollow stabilizer bar; continuous damping control
Traction control:	adaptive all-wheel drive; StabiliTrak electronic stability control
Steering type:	hydraulic, variable-effort rack-and-pinion power steering

Brakes

Type:	four-wheel disc w/ABS (w/ESC)
Brake rotor diameter (in / mm) caliper type (front and rear):	14 / 355, vented and cross drilled rotors; four-piston aluminum calipers

Wheels/Tires

Wheel size and type:	20-inch aluminum
Tires:	Bridgestone 245/35ZR20

Dimensions
Exterior

Wheelbase (in / mm) :	107.8 / 2738
Overall length (in / mm):	190.2 / 4831
Overall width (in / mm):	73.1 / 1811
Overall height (in / mm):	58.4 / 1483
Front track (in / mm):	62.4 / 1585
Rear track (in / mm):	62.5 / 1587

Interior

Seating capacity (front / rear):	2 / 3
Headroom (in / mm):	38.8 / 985 (front) 36.8 / 935 (rear)

Note: Information shown is current at time of publication.

Cadillac CTS-V Coupe – 2011

Art and Science: Cadillac Premieres 2011 CTS-V Coupe

Image credit: Cadillac

DETROIT, Jan. 5 /PRNewswire/ –

• New CTS Coupe design combines with V-Series performance
• 556-hp (415-kW) supercharged 6.2L V-8
• Six-speed manual or six-speed automatic with paddle shift control
• Magnetic Ride Control and Brembo brakes
• New Saffron interior trim accent color
• On sale in early summer

Cadillac today announced the 2011 CTS-V Coupe, which debuts at the 2010 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. It combines the new CTS Coupe’s dramatic design with the 556-horsepower (415-kW) supercharged V-8 engine from the CTS-V sedan. The result is a luxury sports coupe aimed at driving enthusiasts.

“The CTS-V Coupe marries our most potent and sophisticated technology with our most dramatic production design,” said Bryan Nesbitt, Cadillac general manager. “This combination of visual and technical attributes is designed to create a very compelling choice for luxury sports car consumers.”

The CTS-V Coupe begins production this summer. Its suite of technical and performance elements includes Magnetic Ride Control, racing-bred Brembo brakes and an available automatic transmission with paddle-shift control.

The V-Series Coupe includes a unique grille that doubles the car’s air intake volume, an important enabler for its high-performance capabilities. It is also visually identified by a raised center section of the hood that provides clearance for the supercharger, as well as specific front and rear fascias. Like the CTS Coupe, its exhaust is centered inside the rear fascia, but with unique twin outlets. The car rolls on 19-inch cast aluminum wheels, available in either painted or polished finishes, and Michelin Pilot Sport 2 performance tires.

The CTS-V Coupe’s rear track is nearly an inch wider than the CTS-V Sport Sedan, adding to the car’s aggressive stance and enabling an extra measure of handling capability. The current CTS-V Sport Sedan has quickly established itself among the world’s highest performing luxury sedans, becoming the first production four-door on street tires to break the legendary 8-minute barrier at Germany’s famed Nurburgring. The new V-Series Coupe’s sleeker shape and slightly lower mass ensure a similarly high level of performance.

Inside, the 2+2 cabin combines performance and luxury. A new Saffron interior trim color is offered, with contrasting microfiber seat inserts and stitching on the upper trim areas.

Form follows function

The CTS-V Coupe’s design is a clear visual statement of the technical precision and performance intent of the car.

The Coupe has the same wheelbase as the CTS-V Sport Sedan, but its overall height is about two inches (51 mm) lower and its overall length is two inches (51 mm) shorter. The two models share only the instrument panel, console, headlamps, front fenders and grille.

Key design features include:

• Classic hardtop styling, with no conventional B-pillar
• Touch-pad operation for the doors removes the need for conventional door handles
• Faster windshield angle (62.3 degrees) and a nearly horizontal backglass enable an aerodynamic profile
• Signature vertical lighting, highlighted with LED light pipes
• Signature center high-mounted stop lamp functions as a rear spoiler
• Aerodynamic roof-mounted antenna for OnStar and XM Satellite Radio

Supercharged powertrain

The CTS-V Coupe employs the LSA 6.2L supercharged V-8 engine also found on the CTS-V Sport Sedan. Rated at 556 horsepower (415 kW) and 551 lb.-ft. of torque (747 Nm), it is the most powerful engine offered in Cadillac’s history and propels the CTS-V Coupe from 0-60 mph in 3.9 seconds.

The LSA engine features an intercooled Eaton supercharger system, premium aluminum-alloy cylinder heads and numerous details designed to ensure it makes its power as quietly and smoothly as possible. The supercharger, for example, has a unique, four-lobe rotor design that enhances quietness while also optimizing the performance parameters of the engine.

A pair of six-speed transmissions is offered in the CTS-V Coupe: a Tremec TR6060 six-speed manual with a dual-disc clutch and a Hydra-Matic 6L90 six-speed automatic with paddle-shift control. Performance Algorithm Shifting is part of the 6L90′s programming and provides a performance-oriented shift pattern during sustained high-performance driving. As with many Cadillac models, the driver needs only to slide the shifter into the manual “gate” to put the transmission into that more aggressive mode.

The paddle shift control requires no shift lever movement. Steering wheel thumb controls allow immediate and quick tap up/tap down gear selection.

Magnetic Ride Control

The V-Series reaches elite levels of road-holding performance, but also maintains the poise of a luxury car in “regular” driving conditions. The technical enabler of that dual-mode driving character is Cadillac’s landmark Magnetic Ride Control. It is standard on the CTS-V Coupe and is the world’s fastest-reacting suspension technology. It uses shocks controlled by advanced magneto-rheological technology, rather than mechanical valves, to greatly accelerate response time and precision.

Electronic sensors at all four wheels literally “read the road” every millisecond, making constant adjustments to damping to create virtually instantaneous and extremely precise control of body motions. This is of particular benefit for a high-performance car because it helps keep the car very composed during hard cornering, acceleration, braking and other dynamic maneuvers.

The Magnetic Ride shocks also enable a broader range of damping control to optimize the ride and handling for all driving conditions. In the CTS-V Coupe, an extra measure of control is offered, with two selectable modes (Tour and Sport), enabling the driver to tailor the suspension for grand touring or more spirited performance driving.

Braking and tire systems

CTS-V includes sophisticated braking and tire systems, in partnership with two companies renowned for high-performance technology: Brembo and Michelin. Brembo brakes are at all four corners and include powerful, six-piston calipers in the front and four-piston calipers in the rear.

Slotted and vented rotors enable strong initial braking force while optimizing heat resistance and eliminating fade. The brake rotors from Brembo employ a “dual-cast” technology that combines cast iron and aluminum, resulting in excellent performance and weight reduction. CTS-V also includes an electric parking brake, enabling more legroom for the driver, key for high-performance driving.

Michelin partnered with Cadillac engineers to develop its acclaimed Pilot Sport PS2 summer tire for CTS-V and its exclusive 19-inch alloy wheels. The tires support high levels of grip in track conditions, while also affording good performance on the road.

Interior amenities

Recaro performance driving seats are optional in the CTS-V Coupe and provide excellent support for spirited driving. These 14-way adjustable performance seats include pneumatic bolster controls in the seat cushions and backrests.

The CTS-V Coupe also includes an exclusive new Saffron color option for the interior, providing a contrasting color accent carried on the seat inserts, as well as the stitching, which highlights the craftsmanship of the instrument panel, center console, door trim and seats.

The steering wheel, seat inserts and shifter are covered in microfiber, providing the luxurious character of suede without suede’s inherent drawbacks of difficult care and moisture sensitivity. These accents are standard, elegant to the touch and help support high-performance driving.

The car’s integrated center stack is trimmed in Obsidian black material that is also applied to the center console and door trim. Just like every CTS, the V-Series includes a hand-stitched instrument panel, door trim and center console. Leading-edge infotainment features extend to the V-Series. They include a 40-gigabyte hard drive, advanced navigation system with a deployable screen and Bose digital surround audio, as well as factory-installed Bluetooth phone integration, all standard features on the V-Series.

Nissan Skyline – EURO

Image credit: Nissan 

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UPDATED GT-R FOR EUROPE

In line with its philosophy of constant improvement to its high performance icon, Nissan has introduced a series of minor but key updates to the GT-R to maintain its position as the definitive accessible supercar.

Under the skin, by changing the front spring and damper rates, the ride comfort is improved, while handling becomes even more dynamic thanks to improved responsiveness and more accurate control of suspension movements.

At the rear, the stiffness of the suspension radius rod bushings has been increased, giving improved feel and responsiveness during cornering.

The logic controlling torque distribution between the front and rear axles when the GT-R is manoeuvring at low speeds just after start-up, when fluids are cold, has been altered to reduce rear-axle ‘binding’.  Furthermore, the logic in the gearbox has been changed to give a later downshift from 6th to 5th when being driven in automatic mode, but a more aggressive downshift pattern is adopted when changing down from 4th to 3rd, and from 3rd to 2nd gear.

To improve cooling around the rear of the car, two additional NACA cooling ducts have been added to the carbon fiber underfloor diffuser which will provide additional cooling to the exhaust and gearbox. Furthermore, a new, larger diameter pipe connecting the oil cooler will reduce gearbox temperatures.

Another small, but significant update has been to the front transmission mount, which has been stiffened, reducing vibration through the driveline under high-load conditions.

The balance of the electronic brake force distribution bias has been moved slightly rearwards, giving greater braking stability in dry conditions, while a change in design of the rear brake cross spring has reduced noise and a modified air deflector increases rear brake cooling.

Changes to the emissions system now ensure GT-R is Euro 5 compliant, without loss of output or performance, with CO₂ emissions having dropped by 3g to 295g/km.

Visually, front and rear bumpers now benefit from a double coat of clear paint, giving a deeper colour finish, while inside the speedometer and rev counter now sport gun metallic finish surrounds.

Finally, uprated insulation has been fitted to the rear seats, further improving cabin refinement.

Upgraded Navigation & Audio

Since September deliveries, the GT-R has been equipped with Nissan’s next generation combined audio and navigation system, offering improved ease-of-operation, new and updated features. Indeed, the GT-R is the first Nissan model to be equipped with the new system.

At its heart is a Hard Disk Drive (HDD) navigation system with 40GB of memory space.  This makes for faster operation and greater data storage capacity.

Among the many benefits are vastly extended mapping which now includes Turkey, Eastern Europe and Russia, as well as a new easy to follow 3D navigation guidance with improved graphics and a more realistic depiction of the road and landmarks ahead.

The resolution of the new 7 inch screen is up to four times better than the previous generation system.

Real time traffic information is supplied via RDS-TMC, but quicker operation allows the system to offer re-routing in a fraction of the time.

Users have access to Point Of Interest (POI) information supplied by Michelin, with comprehensive information on restaurants, services, museums and other tourist attractions in 20 major European cities.

And, like the GT-R’s existing display, the new generation system continues to use a touch-screen interface, maximising both ease of use and safety not only for the navigation, but also for other functions such as Bluetooth phone connectivity and entertainment. It is also possible to operate the system using voice recognition.

On-screen instructions can be displayed in eight different languages – English, French, German, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, Dutch and Russian – while voice recognition is supported in seven – English, French, German, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese and Dutch.

Another benefit of the HDD information and entertainment system is the incorporation of a 9.3GB Music Box library which can store music from up to 300 CDs. The download takes place automatically when a CD is inserted into the CD player, if selected.

But for those who want a wider music selection at their fingertips, the system also allows iPod/USB connection with full control via the screen and/or steering wheel switches. In addition, song, artist and album information is displayed on the screen.

Other audio devices can be played via the unit’s Bluetooth Audio Streaming function.

Since the start of European sales earlier this year, Nissan has delivered a total of over 1600 GT-Rs to customers, but the process of evolution continues, remaining on the cutting-edge of accessible performance.  The GT-R has also been acclaimed globally, winning over 50 awards and accolades since its global introduction nearly two years ago. These accolades include:

1. Top Gear Supercar of the Year (UK)
2. What Car? Performance Car of the Year (UK)
3. Motor Trend Car of the Year  (US)
4. Automobile magazine Automobile of the Year (South Africa)
5. International Car of the Year (US)
6. Consumers’ Choice Award: Car of the Year 2007-2008 (Japan)
7. King of Cars: Nippon Sport Newspaper (Japan)

2008 BMW M3 Coupe

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Image credits: BMW

Woodcliff Lake, NJ – October 1, 2007… BMW once again proves there is nothing inherently slow about evolution with the introduction of the 2008 M3 Coupe, fourth in the line of compact sport coupes which set the standard in minimizing any compromises between race-inspired performance and luxury and convenience. Sharing the high-revving 414-horsepower V8 and balanced chassis designed to be “faster than its engine,” the motorsports arm of the German automaker, BMW M GmbH, will offer next spring the most powerful, best performing series production M3 to the North American market.

Racing provided the reason for the original M3’s 1986 creation as the company had to produce road-going homologation versions of its 3 Series Coupe to enter the motorsports version in the German Touring Car Championship. Popularity, proven by strong sales demands, provided the impetus to continue developing the M3, making it both a better performer and more inviting road car as it evolved along with the underlying 3 Series, the company’s most popular, upon which it is based.

In 1988 North Americans received their first taste of the high-rpm, naturally aspirated 2.3-liter four-cylinder M3 Coupe’s 192-hp and thus was born a legend on this side of the Atlantic.  The next generation arrived in 1995 with a 3.0-liter (and later, 3.2-liter) 240-hp inline-six powerplant.  In 1997 the first M3 Sedan joined the family and the first M3 Convertible followed shortly thereafter.  The most-recent version, available from 2001-2006 as either a coupe or convertible, again was offered with six-cylinder power, this time providing 333 hp from its 3.2 liters. This vehicle was BMW’s first use of SMG (Sequential Manual Gearbox) for the U.S. market.

The all-new 2008 M3 Coupe and M3 Sedan, arriving in spring 2008, will feature the first V8 in a series-production BMW M3. It will also feature driver-adjustable settings for crucial dynamic controls encompassing engine response, steering, damping and stability (with an available steering-wheel-mounted “MDrive” button to store the preferences) and a sumptuous interior which can be optimized to the driver’s desires including the comprehensive entertainment/navigation system operated through BMW’s latest iDrive controller.

Lightweight, efficient V8 at the heart of the BMW M3
The move to eight cylinders in the fourth generation BMW M3 provides a powerplant offering the seemingly disparate characteristics of more power, increased efficiency and reduced weight when compared with the previous six-cylinder M3 engine.  Displacing 3,999 cubic centimeters (4.0 liters), the new light-alloy engine produces 414 hp at 8,300 rpm and 295 pounds-feet of torque at 3,900 rpm with 85 percent of the maximum torque available consistently through 6,500 rpm. This power output represents a 15-percent increase over the six-cylinder from the last generation M3 and it comes with an eight-percent fuel-economy improvement when compared to its predecessor.  Compression ratio is dialed in to 12.0:1 and redline is set at 8,400 rpm.

The V8-power unit within the engine compartment of the new BMW M3 Coupe boasts the company’s variable double-VANOS camshaft management.  Offering extremely fast and responsive valve timing, this technology reduces charge cycle losses and improves the output, torque and response of the engine, with a positive influence on fuel economy and emission management.

A separate throttle butterfly for each cylinder – eight in this instance – is a feature adapted from BMW M’s racing heritage and provides immediate reaction to the gas pedal at all times. Two stepper motors operate the four throttle butterflies on each row of cylinders, giving the engine a particularly sensitive response at low speeds together with an immediate reaction whenever the driver presses down the accelerator for extra power and performance.

A volume flow-controlled, pendulum-slide cell pump supplies the engine with lubricating oil, delivering the quantity required by the engine. Wet sump oil lubrication, optimized for dynamic performance, ensures consistent oil supply to the high-rpm engine at all times, particularly in extreme braking maneuvers. The system features two oil sumps—a small oil sump in front of the front axle subframe and a large oil sump behind it.

A new, comprehensive electronic management system coordinates all engine functions with optimum efficiency and maximizes operational integration with the clutch, gearbox, steering and brakes. In addition, the engine control unit performs a wide range of on-board diagnosis functions and masterminds the ancillary engine units.

A highlight of the engine management system is the use of ion-current technology to determine engine knock as well as misfire and poor combustion events within the cylinders. Contrary to conventional methods, this monitoring and control function is performed precisely where the phenomena occurs—within the combustion chambers. The spark plug in each cylinder senses and controls the risk of knocking, at the same time monitoring the correct ignition and recognizing any misfiring.  In other words, the spark plug acts as an actuator for the ignition and as a sensor monitoring the combustion process, and is therefore able to distinguish between a misfire and poor combustion. This dual function of the spark plugs facilitates the diagnostic procedures required in service and maintenance.

And the increased performance with better economy comes from the lightweight engine. At 445 pounds, it is seven percent or 33 pounds lighter than the previous model’s Inline-6.  Lightweight components do not stop with the alloy engine block.  The crankcase is made of a special aluminum-silicon alloy eliminating the need for cylinder liners. Despite the need to resist high combustion pressures and engine speeds—this is the “fastest” production engine ever produced by BMW as it can reach 8,400 rpm—the engineers managed to keep the compact and rigid crankshaft weight down to 44 pounds.

Manual transmission, twin-disc clutch and Variable M Differential Lock
Power from the BMW M3 Coupe’s V8 is transmitted to the rear wheels through a close-ratio six-speed manual gearbox.  The performance parameters of the M3 dictated heat management as a key design factor for both the transmission and clutch.  The transmission features integrated temperature-dependent oil cooling management, while internal ventilation maximizes heat dissipation for the twin-disc clutch.

The new final drive comes with a Variable M Differential Lock generating up to 100 percent locking action with fully variable action whenever required, ensuring optimum traction on all road surfaces. Responding to differences in speed between the right and left rear wheel, the Variable M Differential Lock also offers ideal support further enhancing the positive features and characteristics of rear-wheel drive.

Engineering a chassis which is “faster than the engine”
Providing sure-footed responsive handling for a high-performance, powerful and luxurious coupe, while keeping mass under control, presented numerous challenges for the BMW M3’s engineers. The result is a new, aluminum chassis developed specifically for this model. The design begins with placing components in such a way as to create a 50/50 front/rear weight balance.

Virtually all of the front-end components are aluminum, including the front struts, swivel bearings, central subframe and an additional thrust panel below the engine serving to maximize lateral stiffness of the entire front section.

From the rear axle subframe through the transverse arms and track arms, on to the wheel mounts re-configured in their kinematics and stiffness and even the mounting points for the longitudinal arms are now even lighter, all the way to the aluminum dampers. Virtually every detail on the five-arm rear axle made of aluminum is new for this model. These weight-reduction measures and materials help reduce weight by approximately 5.5 pounds when compared to the previous M3.

Both the front and rear axles feature hollow anti-roll bars optimized for their function and weight.  Incorporating two additional longitudinal reinforcement bars, axle kinematics are perfectly tailored to the overall character of the car.  The result, in terms of both stability and weight, conforms to the balanced performance concept of the BMW M3 Coupe.

Compound brake system
A suitably stout braking system for a car with this much performance was specifically developed for the new M3. Featuring large compound disc brakes and electronic anti-lock, stopping power for the new BMW M3 is strong, precise and consistent. The internally-vented, cross-drilled cast iron discs measure14.2 inches in diameter at the front and 13.8 inches in the rear.  They are connected to a floating aluminum hub by cast-in stainless-steel pins.  This configuration reduces the thermal loads on the discs, thus increasing their performance and service life.  An electrically-driven pump provides the system’s vacuum power.

Service – and safety – is enhanced thanks to an ongoing wear indicator which, through a dash display, allows the driver to monitor the condition of the brake linings. Brake service can thus be administered when necessary without guesswork.

Standard M-style light-alloy spoked wheels measure 18 x 8.5 inches with 245/40 low-profile tires at the front and 18 x 9.5 with 265/40 tires at the rear, can be supplemented by optional 19-inch versions in comparable widths and design.

Servotronic steering with two manually adjustable control maps

Rear-wheel drive keeps the rack-and-pinion steering of the BMW M3 Coupe free of drive forces. A further enhancement is hydraulic Servotronic power assistance controlling steering forces as a function of road speed. There is also a choice of two different control maps activated through normal and sport modes with a console-mounted button.

In Sport mode the BMW M3 provides direct and immediate response with a relatively high steering effort. In the Normal mode, power assistance is comfort-oriented and requires less steering effort.

Latest-generation of Dynamic Stability Control

The electronic Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) monitors driving conditions and intervenes through the application of brakes and reduced engine power to stabilize the BMW M3 and help avoid major over- or under-steer situations.

In addition to engine controls and the ABS, other systems integrated in the DSC are Automatic Stability Control (ASC), which prevents the wheels from spinning on surfaces with reduced traction; the Start-Off Assistant, which prevents the car from rolling back when setting off on a grade, as well as Cornering Brake Control (CBC), which prevents the car from spinning or swerving out of control when applying the brakes in a bend.

The latest version of DSC includes additional functions for even greater driving safety.  Whenever the driver is likely to apply the brakes in full within the next few seconds, the system builds up pressure in the hydraulic brake circuit and pre-loads the brake pads to ensure an immediate response.   The Dry Braking feature removes water film from the discs in wet conditions, thus reducing the chance of water interfering with the braking process.

Electronic Damper Control recognizing the driver’s style of motoring

The optional Electronic Damper Control (EDC) allows the driver to tailor the vehicle’s chassis dynamics to his or her preference through one of three modes: Sport, Normal and Comfort.

The response of all dynamic driving systems is carefully tailored to the power and performance of the new BMW M3, with electronic intervention of the various systems naturally taking the dynamics of the car into account. Indeed, the driver even has the option to individually configure specific parameters, thus adjusting the response of the car to his personal preferences.

One-off version of the 599 GTB Fiorano China

Old news but in case anyone missed it or the full size photos – Click each photo to download full size High-res photos.

Ferrari announces the creation of a unique one-off 599 GTB Fiorano China Limited Edition, signed by Chinese artist Lu Hao, which will be auctioned on the 3rd of November at a special Gala Auction Event hosted by Ferrari in Beijing. This exclusive car follows the announcement in September of a small series of specially-designed 599 GTB Fiorano China Limited Edition models which won wide acclaim.

The one-off incorporates a number of the features of the China Limited Edition cars, a very limited series of less than a dozen cars finished in two-tone Rosso Fuoco with silver roof and characterized by unique Chinese design elements.

This one-off model represents an even more exclusive version, thanks to a very special exterior finish which draws inspiration from Ge Kiln porcelain of the Song Dynasty. Lu Hao has blended traditional design elements with Ferrari’s innovative styling to create a truly unique vehicle using a ‘cracked’ glaze pattern which is elegantly coloured, with clearly defined cracks etched at different depths.

Only a few hundred pieces of Ge Kiln porcelain exist today, all of which are priceless treasures. The “cracked” glaze pattern has the lustre of jade and is often used to symbolize the qualities of a true gentleman. Porcelain is one of China’s most distinctive ancient arts which was brought to the West via the Silk Road thousands of years ago. Using Ge Kin porcelain as the inspiration for the one-off version is a perfect complement to Ferrari’s China Limited Edition Model.

As one of China’s most successful and influential contemporary artists, Lu Hao has exhibited his work in major museums and galleries around the world. For this project he drew inspiration from China’s rich cultural heritage, and as a Ferrari owner, he has a particularly intimate connection with the brand.

“The 599 China Limited Edition model is a true masterpiece, combining rich Chinese artistic heritage with Italian design in a most spectacular way,” says Marco Mattiacci, CEO of Ferrari Asia Pacific.

The proceeds generated from the sale of this car will be used on an educational sponsor programme aimed to help young Chinese students in the automotive engineering field. Details of this programme will be released during the auction.

This is just the latest example of charitable events organized by Ferrari in China since Ferrari Maserati Cars International Trading – Shanghai Co. Ltd was set up in 2004. Other fund-raising efforts have seen Ferrari donate over €500,000 to local charities.

Lu Hao and Ferrari CEO Amedeo Felisa discussing details of the project

November 3, 2009, Beijing – The unique Ferrari 599 China was won tonight by an anonymous client from Shanghai at the final price of about 1.2 million euro (including taxes). The auction was the climax of the Gala dinner organized by Ferrari at the Red Gate Gallery in Beijing. Lu Hao, the first Chinese artist to work with Ferrari, created this special model decorated with Song Dynasty Ge Kiln pottery patterns. The proceeds from this auction will fund outstanding students and young teachers of Tsinghua University’s Department of Automotive Engineering to study at Italy’s Politecnico di Milano University and internship at Ferrari’s headquarters.

The gala dinner was attended by Ferrari owners and collectors, joined by Ferrari Asia Pacific CEO Mr. Marco Mattiacci, contemporary artist Lu Hao, professors of China’s leading Tsinghua University Cen Zhangzhi and delegate of Politecnico di Milano University Bruno Pizzigoni. A few Ferrari objects, in particular a helmet and a model car signed by Michael Schumacher, who this morning personally unveiled the car to the international media, were also auctioned together with a racing overall worn by F1 driver, Giancarlo Fisichella. The innovative appearance of this unique model, blending classic Chinese elements with Ferrari distinctive features, aroused immediately great interest among the guests.

This follows the spirit of Ferrari founder, Enzo Ferrari, carried on by Chairman Luca di Montezemolo, in investing in young talents and research. Ferrari was involved before in goodwill activities with Chinese associations, dedicated to youth.