Chevrolet Volt

Body
Wheelbase 105.7 / 2685
Frame
Four-wheel disc brakes to maximize energy capture fully regenerative
Training
Electric power steering assistance system
Suspension (R) torsion axle torsion
Suspension (F) independent McPherson
Engine and transmission
PS (kW) at rpm: 111 / 150
Nm of torque (Nm) at rpm: 273 / 370
Exterior
Length 177 / 4404
Width 70.8 / 1798
Height 56.3 / 1430
Performance
Top Speed 100
2011 Chevrolet Volt Pictures
national launch of the Chevrolet Volt, with other major markets in California are beginning to follow
[Source: Volt Media Portal]

LOS ANGELES - Chevrolet announced today at Los Angeles International Auto Show, the Volt electric car with a capacity expansion is the end of next year in California - are appointed to other major markets at a later date - the largest market for new cars.

Chevrolet is partnering with utilities in California three and the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) through a scope, the true demonstration and research program for customers on the import of electric vehicles, before the electrification of vehicles and set up programs in vehicles to pave the way to consumers. General Motors leads the program with a grant administered by the United States dollar over $ 30 million American Recovery and Reinvestment Act Initiative funds for the electrification of transportation by S. U. Department of Energy.

"It 's natural that California is the leading marketplace for volts. It is not only the largest car market in California are known, state government and the adoption of advanced technologies," said Brent Dewar, vice president of GM's Chevrolet a global brand.

Volt will start production in late 2010. Prices were not announced. The market introduction in early times, including California, has a crucial role in the validation of the retail market for electric vehicles ready to play. GM and the major utilities in North America in all regional markets ahead of the retail market to prepare for deployment.

Three power companies in California to participate in the demonstration project, Pacific Gas and Electric, Southern California Edison and Sacramento Municipal Utility District. Close EPRI, a non-profit independent research in Palo Alto, California and seven other utilities in the project. EPRI utility members represent over 90 percent of electricity generated and delivered to the United States.

As part of the research program and demonstration, Chevrolet is planning more than 100 volts to provide participants in the fleet of two years of use. Chevrolet will use the OnStar telematics technology for vehicle performance and driver feedback that DOE will be presented and used to collect to improve the customer experience with new technology.

Because the Volt is easily anywhere for free, the program also includes the installation of more than 500 charging stations for the residential, commercial and public. The charging stations are used to better understand the installation, save the car and charge the guest experience.

The Chevrolet Volt is to produce for the ride to 40 miles on electric power without fuel or exhaust gas. If the battery voltage lithium-ion battery is low, the extension of a motor / generator seamlessly with the full range of driving over 300 miles before refueling or recharging the battery.

The Volt is its advanced electric drive system. With battery technology, the Volt personalization, feedback and interaction is at a new level.

The Volt is "counter efficiency" in the Digital Dashboard provides a real-time feedback the effectiveness of each pilot. The heating and cooling has three modes, efficiency and enable the Volt "Green Leaf" button allows access to an RSS feed of vehicles, loaded with energy and information. The driver can access the calendar collection in all vehicles or remotely, depending on time of day or cost. And people, including audio and visual signals to alert the driver when the car of a monitor is turned on, and when the load.

The Volt has a great reputation in and around Los Angeles in the days before the show is auto. It is characterized Los Angeles restaurants visited the West Lake Mall in Century City West Los Angeles and a meeting of the National School of Harvard-Westlake prep school was presented. Chevrolet Volt, a new song, designed to educate and entertain consumers at the auto show in the days open to the public.

Kia recalling Soul

2010 Kia Soul and 2011 Kia Sorento – Click on either image for high-res gallery
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has announced a recall on two Kia vehicles – the 2010 Soul and 2011 Sorento – to replace interior lighting wiring harnesses. These faulty units, supplied by JCI, can apparently cause an electrical short resulting in a fire. This recall affects 35,185 vehicles manufactured between September 7, 2009 and July 30, 2010.

In the Soul, the wiring harnesses in question are located in the front doors and control the funky accent illumination in the speakers. The Sorento has similar problems, but these wires power the lighting in both the front and rear door trim panels.

The full recall is expected to begin within the coming weeks and dealers will inspect and fix the faulty wiring harnesses free of charge. Hit the jump for the full information from NHTSA.

Review: 2010 Kia Soul

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Review: 2011 Kia Sorento

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Photos Copyright ©2010 John Neff and Drew Phillips / AOL

Show full PR text Vehicle Make / Model: KIA / SORENTO, KIA MOTOR / SOUL
Model Year(s): 2011, 2010
Manufacturer: HYUNDAI-KIA AMERICA TECHNICAL CENTER INC
Mfr's Report Date: AUG 31, 2010
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 10V388000
Component: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING
Potential Number of Units Affected: 35185

Summary

HYUNDAI-KIA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2010 SOUL AND MODEL YEAR 2011 SORENTO VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM SEPTEMBER 7, 2009 THROUGH JULY 30, 2010. A LIMITED NUMBER OF WIRING HARNESSES SUPPLIED BY JCI AND USED FOR THE LIGHTING IN THE KIA SOUL VEHICLE¿S ADVANCED LIGHTING SPEAKERS, LOCATED IN THE FRONT DOOR TRIM PANELS, AND THE KIA SORENTO VEHICLE¿S INTERIOR ACCENT ILLUMINATION, LOCATED IN THE FRONT AND REAR DOOR TRIM PANELS, MAY HAVE BEEN IMPROPERLY SOLDERED.

Consequence

WHEN THE LIGHTS ARE ILLUMINATED UNDER CERTAIN CONDITIONS, AN ELECTRICAL SHORT MAY OCCUR THAT CAN RESULT IN A FIRE.

Remedy

DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE WIRING HARNESSES FOR THE LIGHTS IN THE KIA SOUL VEHICLE'S ADVANCED LIGHTING SPEAKERS, AND THE WIRING HARNESS FOR THE KIA SORENTO VEHICLE'S INTERIOR ACCENT ILLUMINATION. THIS SERVICE WILL BE PERFORMED FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING SEPTEMBER 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT KIA CONSUMER ASSISTANCE CENTER AT 1-800-333-4542.

Notes

KIA'S SAFETY RECALL CAMPAIGN NUMBER IS SC083. OWNERS MAY ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S VEHICLE SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), OR GO TO HTTP://WWW.SAFERCAR.GOV .

BMW stretches design form with the Gran

Character lines that flow unbroken from front to back and a long, curved roofline are the hallmarks of BMW's Gran Coupe concept that the automaker unveiled at a private setting in Beijing but won't be putting on the floor of the Beijing motor show.

And even though the concept's name includes coupe, the car has four doors.

The Gran Coupe concept is long and low. It measures nearly 196 inches long--five inches longer than a 5-series sedan--and stands 55 inches tall, about four inches shorter than a 5-series. Even BMW's trademark twin-kidney grille design is stretched wide for this concept.

BMW didn't give us any info on what might be under the concept's hood. But based on the pictures, we don't see what could be standing in the way of this car reaching production.

Lexus IS-C F-Sport

Lexus IS-C F-Sport – Click above for high-res image gallery

Lexus is having a spring sale on several of the F-Sport accessory packages that offers for the IS and GS models. The packages include a $1,450 suspension lowering kit and a $4,495 kit that adds new wheels and tires to the package. For those who want to go all out, the top package runs $8,995 and adds in a brake upgrade with six-piston front calipers and cross-drilled 14-inch rotors. A set of four-pot calipers and 13.6-inch discs are provided for the rear corners.

The sale price on that top package is a savings of $1,479. All three packages are discounted from June 1 to July 31 and installation is included in the price. Want to know more? See all the details after the break.
Lexus F-Sport Accessories

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In addition to Ford Explorer-like Lincoln grille arrested in Los Angeles?

2011 Lincoln Grill Ford Explorer spy shot

Although these are not the clearest spy photos in September you will see this week. Regardless, are interesting when they show what looks like a next-gen-2011 Ford Explorer the familiar face of the current line up in Lincoln City will be perfected. Sure, it is not very surprising that indicates, for a luxury Lincoln, a product of Ford pedestrian - happens all the time - but why the Explorer?

Note that Lincoln has a bit 'of links to other Ford models namely, the MKX and MKT. Also, remember that the next Explorer will be the migration of a minor car-based cross-platform ... CUVs and ask how they can support the brand Lincoln.

So, just what we see is camo'd vehicle on the roads? It would be a new browser (or a rebound in ex-Explorer) based Aviator, but a mule put together by the parties, not the intention of the production, or something completely new? Beats us. Take a closer look at the pictures and evaluate for themselves. Thanks for the photos, George!

Unichip Upgrades Subaru Impreza 2.0 Turbo Diesel to 168HP

The diesel version of the European market Subaru Impreza has caught the tuning attention of Unichip, a firm that as its name implies, fiddles around with ECUs. The company claims that thanks to some subtle electronic tweaks to the 2.0-liter turbo diesel engine's fuelling and boost settings, output is raised by 18HP and torque by 33 lb-ft for a total of 168-horsepower and 291lb.ft of torque.

No performance or economy figures were released, but Unichip vaguely states that "drivers reported a 5-10% consumption improvement compared to standard".

In the UK, the Unichip U-Connect upgrade is priced at £465.30 including 17.5% VAT.

Chevrolet Beat for India Segment-Leading Size and a Dynamic Exterior

2010 Chevrolet Beat for India - Click above to enlarge

The question of whether or not General Motors will bring its diminutive Chevrolet Spark to the United States still doesn't have a definitive answer. Thanks to a GM of India press release, however, we now know that the little urban runabout will be coming to North America, although that geography obviously also includes Mexico and Canada.

In the past, GM spokespeople have suggested that it might be possible for the Spark (A.K.A. "Beat," or that unbearably irritating robot from Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen) to be imported Stateside and that the automaker had kept U.S. regulations in mind when designing the car. Regardless, with gas as cheap as it currently is and a new Aveo just around the corner, we're certainly not holding our breath for a U.S. launch any time soon, and we feel that seeing the Beat in Mexican and/or Canadian showrooms is more likely.

That said, feel free to hit the jump to read GM of India's press release on the introduction of the Beat, which made its production-ready debut earlier in the week in New Delhi.

[Source: General Motors]

Show full PR text

GM India Launches much awaited Chevrolet Beat

Sexy, Smart & Tough - New Global mini car to be key pillar of Chevrolet's growth strategy in India

New Delhi: GM India today launched the much awaited Chevrolet Beat, the next offering from the 300 series after the Cruze, at a ceremony presided over by its President & Managing Director, Mr. Karl Slym. Based on GM's global mini-vehicle architecture, the experts took 27 months to develop the Beat. Chevrolet Beat will be launched in over 150 markets around the world including those in Europe, other parts of Asia and North America in the coming days.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Slym said "with its best-in-segment design, performance and safety, the Beat is destined to become an industry benchmark and a winner among consumers in India. Aimed at meeting the highest quality and performance standards in the most sophisticated markets in a competitive environment, the global vehicle was put through over 1 million kilometers of intensive durability tests in extreme weather conditions and crash tests both in India and abroad. It has high-strength and ultra-high-strength steel over key areas of the body to ensure segment-leading occupant protection. And with a revolutionary design, advanced technology, unique features and benchmark safety, the Beat offers much more than an ordinary mini, Mr. Slym added.

The Beat comes in three trim levels of 1.2, 1.2LS and 1.2LT. In addition, an Option pack is available on the LT variant which consists of ABS, Alloy wheels, Dual Airbags and Seatbelts with Load limiters.

Sexy Beat:

Segment-Leading Size and a Dynamic Exterior

The Beat is a car that is ideal for those with a modern lifestyle. With the styling of a sporty hatchback, it showcases the new direction of Chevrolet design and a new trend in the design of mini-cars. The clear goal from the very beginning was to create a revolution in size and design despite the restrictions of the mini segment. The vehicle is destined to make a statement with an innovative design that would go far beyond a typical mini-vehicle and set new standards for the segment.

The Beat's roomy proportions and dynamic styling are courtesy of its segment-leading length of 3,595 mm, height of 1,520 mm, wheelbase of 2,375 mm, and width of 1,595 mm combined with its "body-in/wheels-out" stance. Dramatically sized headlamps that literally stretch from the front fascia to the back of the hood, with clear polycarbonate lenses and chrome-coated bezels, resemble diamonds, adding an upscale appearance and glamour.

A window line that is slanted dynamically upward, an arching roofline and sharp sidelines bring a sporty yet edgy look, a rarity in the segment. Secret vertical rear door handles located in the C-pillar are another unusual feature in this car. They give the Beat a unique, sporty three-door coupe appearance without sacrificing five-door utility.

A first-in-segment offering of an integrated rear spoiler as standard equipment essentially extends the rear roofline, for enhanced aerodynamic performance and provides a stable stance in high-speed driving as well as increased fuel efficiency. Round tail-lamps with clear polycarbonate lenses add to the Beat's strong rear impression.

A chrome-coated radiator grille and fog lamps, outside mirrors with two-tone color, and a refined-looking roof rail are other design cues that transport the Beat's styling beyond that of a conventional mini.

Beat buyers have a larger palette of exterior colours to choose from. They may select one of the seven colours - Olympic White, Linen Beige, Caviar Black, Misty Lake, Moroccan Blue, Green Cocktail and Super Red.

Unique Interior Defined By Fun, Fashion and Functionality

The design revolution continues inside the Beat. While pursuing a harmonious theme with the dynamic exterior, the interior is more about functionality. With its wider track and longer wheelbase, the Beat provides best-in-segment front legroom, rear legroom, front headroom and rear hip-room, resulting in generous space and comfortable accommodation for five adults.

The flowing interior weaves together the instrument panel, front seats and door trims, creating an environment that is harmonious, uninterrupted and inviting to the senses.

The most striking design element in the interior is a Steering Column mounted motorcycle-inspired dynamic meter cluster which is also a first-in-segment and combines analog and digital systems, contributing fun and unique styling as well as enhanced visibility and convenience. Adding to the refined look is an integrated center stack design that eliminates the traditional "picture framing" layout and results in a contemporary stylish relationship. LED-lit ice blue illumination which is a signature Chevrolet adds to the urban, edgy styling.

Pattern-printed semi-bucket seats provide a stable feeling when cornering. With high-quality materials and exceptional craftsmanship, they also enhance the luxurious interior atmosphere.

SMART Beat

Segment leading fuel efficiency with high power output engine

Newly developed for the next-generation global mini, the S-TEC II engine – a 4-cylinder, 16-valve 1199cc DOHC engine delivers a best in class mileage of 18.6 kmpl. The Beat is Smart because it does no compromise on performance as it delivers an excellent peak power of 80.5ps. The S-TEC II engine includes a series of advanced features that enhance performance. The first-in-segment application of the PDA (Port De-Activation) system ensures high exhaust gas recirculation, resulting in combustion stability at low speeds and optimal performance at high speeds together with improved fuel efficiency. In addition, the PDA system contributes to a reduction in emissions, making the Beat a truly eco-friendly vehicle.

Another first-in-segment application is an automatic temperature controller inside the engine, which helps improve fuel efficiency by reducing unnecessary heat loss. A dome-type long-skirt cylinder block narrows the space between intake valves while the application of four resonators reduces engine noise. Mated with the efficient S-TEC-II engine is a 5-speed manual transmission tuned to GM's global standards that provides enhanced shifts for an outstanding ride.

Segment first & Premium Features Go "Beyond Mini"

The Beat features an array of premium comfort and convenience amenities that one would expect in more expensive vehicles, including:

* l Automatic Climate Control
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* Integrated Center Stack Audio with USB and Aux-in Port
* Tilt steering
* Steering Column mounted LED back-lit speedometer & LCD digital tachometer
* 60:40 Split folding seats
* Tubeless Tyres
* Satin Silver Roof rails

TOUGH Beat

Solid Structure and Advanced Chassis Ensure Pleasurable Ride and Handling

The ride and handling of the Beat also set it apart from any other vehicle in its segment. Adopting the body-frame integral (BFI) system, the upper body structure and frame are engineered as a single unit, resulting in better feel of the road along with a heightened sense of firmness and stability, and enhanced connectivity between the driver and vehicle. A McPherson strut front suspension combined with a four-point mounted long engine cradle and a width power reduction spring enhances the solidity of the entire chassis, for improved crash safety and driving performance. A rear compound crank torsion beam incorporates a tubular V-beam for more effective tuning and dynamic performance.

A first-in-segment triple acoustic absorbent structure and special underbody structure prevent noise inflow from outside for optimal quietness. Wind noise is minimized through the Beat's aerodynamic body line and detailed door sealing structure.

Class-Transcending Use of High-Strength Steel

A host of structural enhancements combined with a full offering of active and passive safety systems make the Beat a segment leader in its class.

Its body is the stiffest and toughest in the mini segment; 66.5 percent of its body is constructed of high-strength steel and over 16 percent is made of ultra-high-strength steel. This ensures the highest level of protection in the segment. The solid structure played a key role in securing EuroNCAP rating in crash tests.

In addition, ultra-high-strength steel applied to the side structure minimizes the chance of the structure deforming in the event of a crash. High-strength steel is also used in the rear body structure to protect passengers as well as the fuel tank, minimizing the possibility of fuel leakage during a collision. The four-point mounted long engine cradle protects passengers in the event of a head-on collision by optimally dispersing crash loads. The collapsible steering column helps protect driver's chest in frontal collisions

The use of H-spider type ultra-high-strength steel bars in the underbody prevents severe deformation caused by a side crash. The tailor-welded blanking method used in the B-pillar ensures maximum protection of passengers' upper bodies. High-strength steel in the rear and rear crash boxes minimize the impact of whiplash.

The roof is especially stiff, for maximum rollover protection. The Beat has been developed to withstand up to four times its weight – which goes far beyond industry regulations. Safety features include driver and front passenger air bags a 4-channel/4-sensor EBD-ABS system and seatbelt with load limiter.

The Beat comes with a high localization content and the parts have been very competitively priced in line with Chevrolet's philosophy to provide low cost of ownership experience to the owners. It also comes with a segment best warranty of 3 years or 100,000 kms (whichever is earlier).

The Sang Bleu was supposed to be the last special edition Bugatti Veyron

Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Blanc Noir Edition – Click above for image gallery

You didn't really think it was over, did you? The Sang Bleu was supposed to be the last special edition Bugatti Veyron, but word (and pictures) on the street suggest otherwise. Exhibit Z: the Grand Sport Blanc Noir edition, which follows the trio of Dubai specials into the Veyron special sunset.

Apparently created for a high-end clothier, the Veyron Blanc Noir appears to be a one-off (like the Pegaso) rather than a limited-production run (like the Fbg par Hermes). Based on the targa-roofed Grand Sport, the Black Noir edition – spotted in California – is all done up, as the name suggests, in black and white: a matte white body with glossy black hood, wheels, spoiler, fuel filler cap and more. And of course, there's the requisite nameplate on the lower front corner of the door. Check it out in the gallery below for all the angles.

Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Blanc Noir Edition

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