FERRARI EU DEALERS HOST SUCCESSFUL APPRENTICE OPEN DAYS

Ferrari Dealers welcomed around 400 attendees from local schools to learn about Ferrari Apprenticeships during National Apprenticeship Week 2020

London, Monday 10 February 2020 - Ferrari is delighted to announce that the Official Ferrari Dealer Network welcomed around 400 attendees to an Open Day at their Aftersales facilities to showcase Apprenticeship opportunities with the Prancing Horse. Each Ferrari Dealer hosted students from selected local schools in their area to visit the service centers and learn about Ferrari technology and potential job opportunities in their local dealership.

After receiving an overview of the Ferrari North Europe Apprenticeship Scheme, students were taken on a tour of the facilities, where they were able to interact with recent and current apprentices, as well as Service Technicians and Aftersales Managers to ask questions and really get an idea of what it means to work as an apprentice on the Ferrari scheme.

The Ferrari North Europe Apprentice program is ideal for those who have achieved at least 5 GCSEs and are interested in working at an Official Ferrari Dealer in one of the following Apprenticeship roles:

• Service Technician – 3-year apprenticeship

• Service Advisor – 2-year apprenticeship

• Parts Advisor – 2-year apprenticeship

Each of these roles includes full-time employment at an official Ferrari dealership, with on-the-job training carried out under the watchful eye of Ferrari Master Technicians. Ferrari North Europe also provides additional classroom, theory and practical training at the company’s Training Centre in Berkshire.

Subject to the satisfactory completion of the training program, Apprentices are offered full-time roles with their local Ferrari dealership. In fact, the Ferrari North Europe Apprenticeship program has become the de facto route into the brand, with many employees starting out as an Apprentice subsequently moving into other roles in the business, such as Workshop Manager, Service Manager, or even Sales Executive.

Candidates wishing to apply for the September 2020 intake should contact their local Ferrari dealer for further details. Candidates can also check for the latest vacancies and register their interest via: www.ferrariapprenticeship.co.uk.

THE PANIGALE V4 BECOMES SUPERLEGGERA: THE DREAM BIKE IS NOW A REALITY, AND IT’S A DUCATI

• The Superleggera V4 is the most powerful and technologically advanced production Ducati ever built and will be produced as a limited edition of just 500 individually numbered motorcycles

• The only street-legal motorcycle in the world with a carbon fiber chassis, swingarm, and wheels

• Biplane wings and extreme aerodynamics

• A power/weight ratio of 1.54 hp/kg in racing kit configuration, a record value for a street-legal bike

• Deliveries start in June 2020 at the rate of 5 bikes per day

• Purchasers of the Superleggera V4 will also be offered a track test on the factory Panigale V4 R competing in the Superbike World Championship and, for the first time ever, a unique opportunity to test the Desmosedici GP20

Borgo Panigale (Bologna, Italy), 6 February 2020 – With the Superleggera V4, Ducati fulfills the dream of pushing back the limits of engineering, attention to detail and motorcycle design, with a project that represents the Bolognese company’s greatest masterpiece in terms of engineering, performance, and design.

After an exclusive preview for its most passionate and loyal clients, Ducati now officially unveils its new Superleggera V4, the most powerful and technologically advanced motorcycle ever made by the Borgo Panigale manufacturer, produced in a limited edition of just 500 individually numbered bikes.

The Superleggera V4 is the world's only street-legal motorcycle with the entire load-bearing structure of the chassis (frame, subframe, swingarm, and wheels) made from composite material, achieving a 6.7 kg reduction in weight thanks to these components.
To ensure the highest quality and safety standards, these components are 100% tested using the most sophisticated techniques borrowed from the aerospace industry, such as thermography, ultrasound inspections, and tomography.
The chassis dimensions have been modified for optimized track use by increasing the length of the swingarm.
The overall result is unparalleled deceleration power, faster leaning down into corners and sharper lines riding out of bends.

The level of performance achieved is extremely high: Alessandro Valia, an official Ducati tester, took the bike, fitted with the racing kit and slick tires, around the Mugello circuit in 1:52:45, less than two seconds from the lap time of the Panigale V4 R SBK, winner of the 2019 Italian Motorspeed Championship (CIV) with Michele Pirro.

Many components are made of carbon fiber, molded into advanced aerodynamic shapes. These include the fairing, which ensures a level of aerodynamic efficiency that matches and exceeds that of current MotoGP bikes. Thanks to the 'biplane' aerofoils inspired by the 2016 Ducati MotoGP, with the highest performance in this field, it can guarantee a downforce of 50 kg at 270 kph, 20 kg more than that created by the aerofoils on the Panigale V4 MY20 and V4 R. This downforce improves acceleration, by countering the tendency to wheel-up, and increases braking stability.

The carbon fiber fairings also sport an eye-catching Desmosedici GP19-inspired livery that juxtaposes the red of the GP19 with a naked carbon that emphasizes shapes, materials and technical details.
Beneath the carbon skin lies the Desmosedici Stradale R engine, lighter and more powerful than ever. The 998 cm3  90° V4 that powers the Superleggera V4 weighs, in fact, 2.8 kg less than the 1,103 cm3 V4. Thanks to a type-approved Akrapovič exhaust, it delivers no less than 224 CV in road-legal configuration (EU homologation figures). That figure rises to 234 CV when fitted with the titanium Akrapovič exhaust for track use, which is included in the Racing Kit supplied with the bike.
The racing nature of the engine is enhanced by the use of the dry clutch and the individual manual adjustment of the Desmodromic timing system.

Only on the Superleggera V4, a special engine calibration for the racing exhaust gives riders access to a “RaceGP” display. Intended exclusively for track use, and designed with valuable input from Andrea Dovizioso, it is a direct offshoot of the instrument panel on the Desmosedici GP20.

Thanks to extensive use of carbon fiber, titanium and magnesium components and others machined from solid aluminum, the Superleggera V4 has a dry weight of just 159 kg (16 kg less than the Panigale V4), resulting in a power-to-weight ratio of 1.41 hp/kg: a record-breaking figure for a road-legal sports bike. Mounting the supplied Racing kit and switching the bike to its track configuration boosts power to 234 hp, dropping the weight to 152.2 kg and raising the power-to-weight ratio to 1.54 hp/kg.

The electronic controls have also been developed to enhance the racing nature of this motorcycle. Their operational parameters are associated by default with three reprogrammed Riding Modes (named Race A, Race B, and Sport ). There are also - for the very first time - five additional Riding Modes that can be personalized with the rider's preferred settings. Riders can monitor lap times via the upgraded Lap Timer, which can record finish line and split times coordinates for five favorite circuits. These can be recalled at the start of each track day without having to repeat the set-up procedure. The default system settings feature the finish line/split time details of Laguna Seca, Mugello, Jerez, Sepang, and Losail.

This is topped by a latest-generation electronics package including EVO 2 strategies for the DTC and DQS up/down.

Other standard items include a lighter Öhlins suspension system, with a pressurized fork and lighter machined aluminum fork bottoms, a titanium shock absorber spring and GP-derived valves that improve the damping of road bumps during the initial compression stage.

The braking system is the best in the Brembo production range, with an MCS caliper featuring a remotely adjusted lever gap and Stylema® R calipers, exclusive to the Superleggera V4, to provide greater front-brake stroke consistency in long track runs.

Meticulous attention to detail is also obvious in the radiator cap machined from solid aluminum and the dedicated ignition key with an aluminum insert showing the bike number.

The exclusiveness of the materials and technical solutions is reflected in the limited number of bikes: just 500, all individually numbered and provided with a certificate of authenticity. The bike ID number (XXX/500), which matches the VIN, is displayed on the frame, fork yoke, and ignition key.

The start of deliveries is planned for June 2020 in Europe and, given the extreme complexity of the production of so many components, the rate is limited to only 5 bikes/day. However, all the bikes will be produced within 2020.

Superleggera customers only have the chance to purchase an exclusive Superleggera V4 premium leather suit with integrated air-bag and a carbon fiber helmet, both emblazoned with the bike's colors and graphics. Produced by Dainese, the leathers combine lightness and strength with the safety of the D-air® system. Likewise, the meticulously crafted Arai helmet - which features aeronautical-grade carbon fiber - offers unsurpassed protection and comfort.

The package that Ducati has prepared for enthusiasts who purchase a Superleggera V4 also includes access to the "SBK Experience", allowing owners to ride the Panigale V4 R, which competes in the SBK World Championship, on a test track at Mugello. Even more amazingly, 30 Superleggera V4 owners will have an exclusive opportunity to enjoy the “MotoGP Experience” and live the dream of every racing enthusiast. For the very first time, they will be able to ride a circuit on the Desmosedici GP20 used by Dovizioso and Petrucci, with the close support of the Ducati Corse technicians.

These special events and opportunities are as unique as this new Ducati model. The Superleggera V4 is extreme, designed and developed to achieve maximum on-track performance and ensure all the reliability and rider-friendliness of a road-legal sportbike.

With the Superleggera V4, Ducati pushes back the limits even further. The technical expertise and knowledge developed and continuously evolved in MotoGP are made available to enthusiasts of engineering and performance on two wheels.

First 2020 SSC TUATARA Delivered in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

With the production of customer Tuatara hypercars well underway at SSC North America headquarters in Richland, Washington, the public has its first chance to witness the product of over a decade of design, engineering, and development as Larry Caplin and his organization, CF Charities, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania reveals his 2020 SSC Tuatara, the first of one hundred exclusive units to be produced, on February 7th, 2020 at the Philadelphia Auto Show.

The SSC Tuatara is a hypercar that alters reality on several automotive design and engineering fronts. The Tuatara project, code-named "Exceed", began in 2009, when SSC North America Founder and CEO Jerod Shelby began to look to the future for a successor to the company's record-breaking SSC Ultimate Aero, which held the Guinness World Record for Fastest Production Car in the World from 2007 to 2010. From there, he assembled a collaboration of industry-leading individuals and firms to enhance the SSC engineering team.

"The team had to reflect the achievements that we set out to accomplish, which is why we gathered the best in the industry to push the vision of the Tuatara forward. The team has not only achieved that original vision, but has surpassed it by an incredible margin." - Jerod Shelby, CEO / Lead Designer

The body and aerodynamics of the Tuatara were designed in collaboration with world-renowned automotive designer Jason Castriota. Penning the design of legacy brand automobiles such as Maserati and Ferrari, his insight into timeless and striking forms would help move the SSC brand forward with a hypercar design that would endure the test of time. Likewise, the science of aerodynamics and thermal efficiency had to not only blend seamlessly into the artful exterior but be pushed to new limits, ensuring an unparalleled coefficient of drag.

"The resulting aerodynamics package sets the Tuatara apart from our competitors. Not only does the car boast a class leading 0.279 drag coefficient, but also maintains an identical aero balance from 100 mph to well over 300 mph, resulting in an incredibly stable and predictable car that instills absolute confidence in the driver." - Jason Castriota

Beneath the carbon fiber skin of the Tuatara is a robust carbon fiber monocoque, engineered with safety, durability, performance, and aesthetics in mind. The monocoque brings all of the critical sub-assemblies together into an aggregated form, as well as contours to the shape of the ergonomic cockpit surrounding the driver and passenger. Composed entirely of carbon fiber, the lightweight frame provides uncompromising safety thanks to its systematic crash structures and durable design. The beautiful carbon fiber composition was not left to be unnoticed, as exposed areas of the monocoque are visible, both subtly and notably across the car. For over a century, Washington State has been a global leader in aerospace innovation. SSC North America tapped into this extraordinary potential by collaborating with aerospace design firms and suppliers based in Washington that could provide carbon fiber components that meet the strict aerospace standards. Further collaboration between the SSC engineering team and Nevada based Customs Factory bolstered the design, engineering, and development of the lightweight Tuatara skeleton, an all-carbon work of art leading the hypercar industry for safety and performance.

Jerod and his team at SSC North America are founded on the pursuit of extreme performance. As such, the vision of the Tuatara embodied creating a hypercar with unprecedented power, speed, and versatility. Furthermore, the powerplant had to be as unique as the Tuatara itself and the driving experience it affords. SSC North America engineers started from the ground up, designing a bespoke engine in collaboration with Tom Nelson of Nelson Racing Engines. From a groundbreaking intake system to a unique flat-plane crank configuration, to a form so exceptional it is designated as a work of automotive art, the SSC Twin Turbo V8 revolutionizes the potential of hypercar powerplants. Producing 1,350 horsepower with 91 octane or a massive 1,750 horsepower with E85, the SSC V8 pairs with a CIMA 7 speed transmission, integrated with a state-of-the-art Automatic AMT system, providing sub-100 millisecond shifting capabilities in Track Mode.

After two decades of achieving top tier performance, one of the most underestimated goals and achievements of SSC North America is the diversity of drivability that SSC hypercars deliver. The aggressive capabilities of the Tuatara may be apparent through the astonishing aerodynamics and power it boasts, but the vision of the car was to achieve the rare ability for the car to transform its capabilities at the touch of a button. Integrated into the Tuatara are advanced automated systems, granting the driver the ability to completely alter the suspension, ride height, handling, acceleration, shifting, and overall drivability. Sport Mode, the default configuration, sets the car at 4.0" front and 4.5" rear ride height, as well as a transmission configuration to allow for docile shifting for ease of operation and city street environments. Track Mode lowers the ride height to 2.74" front and 3.25" rear, adjusts the geometry of the suspension for extreme track-level handling, substantially increased shift responsiveness, and dynamically activating a rear wing control surface, adjusting pitch and height based on speed to maintain deliberate airflow and balanced precision downforce. While braking, the active rear wing deflects accordingly, spoiling the airflow and delivering superior braking capabilities. Front Lift Mode offers convenience in situations that would otherwise limit the low ride height of the Tuatara. The front suspension is lifted an additional 40mm, allowing for clearance over speed bumps or other raised surfaces. Ease of transport is achieved through this adjusted ride height as well.

With an extreme level of performance at the driver's disposal, operator and passenger comfort and connectivity is key to the unprecedented experience that the Tuatara has to offer. Dihedral opening doors offer both spacious cab egress and stunning curbside attraction, as well as ease of use. At the press of a button, the hydraulically actuated doors open effortlessly, welcoming the individual to a well-appointed cockpit. Safety is immediately apparent as exposed carbon fiber encases the cab. Each and every detail of the pure and purposeful interior has been designed to maximize the ability to focus on the task at hand, redefining all paradigms of speed, distraction-free. The driver is seamlessly connected to the car through a user-focused digital HMI (human-machine interface) driver display, designed to provide crucial driving information to the driver in an easily navigable yet striking design. On the center console sits a readily available touch screen system, offering the driver all of the vehicle's toggles, controls, diagnostics, and entertainment in a practical user interface. At the touch of the screen, the driver has access to the multiple driving modes, tire pressures, complete diagnostics, climate control, music, and more. At the center of the driver's helm is the Tuatara steering wheel with custom paddle shifts, accessible buttons, and toggles, and a shift light indicator to overtly prompt the driver during intense track handling situations. Passengers as tall as 6'5" will fit comfortably in the cabin, even with sporting a race helmet.

The SSC Tuatara personifies over a decade of a methodical, passionate, and innovative undertaking to create a car that exceeds measure on all fronts. It is a truly bespoke American hypercar that involves the collaboration and efforts of hundreds of dedicated individuals on a global scale.

"I am extremely proud of our team. We have created the full package - looks, performance, and artwork all rolled into one. The last 10 years have been a journey to excellence making this February 7th public debut even sweeter and more rewarding. And it is only the beginning!" - Jerod Shelby.

SSC North America will produce one hundred (100) Tuatara hypercars, all manufactured at the company headquarters in Richland, Washington, USA. Manhattan Motorcars of New York is the exclusive the Northeast United States Authorized Tuatara Dealership. An extensive options list gives customers a chance to make each Tuatara truly unique, with high speed and track-centered configurations available.

New 2020 Jeep® Gladiator Mojave: the Ultimate High-performance Off-road Midsize Pickup

First Desert Rated Jeep 4x4

• Jeep® Desert Rated vehicles represent the ultimate in high-speed off-road capability and performance in grueling desert and sand environments

• All-new Gladiator Mojave is the first Jeep vehicle to earn brand’s newly minted Desert Rated badge

• Industry-exclusive FOX hydraulic jounce bumpers and 2.5-inch internal bypass shocks with external reservoirs bolster Gladiator Mojave’s high-speed sand-running credentials

Chicago - The Jeep® brand is breaking new ground with the Gladiator Mojave, the first Jeep vehicle to carry the brand’s newly minted Desert Rated badge. Jeep Desert Rated vehicles represent the ultimate in high-speed off-road capability and performance while traversing grueling desert and sand environments.

“4x4 capability has always been the foremost pillar of the Jeep brand and the new Gladiator Mojave is a natural extension of our legendary Trail Rated 4x4 capability leadership,” said Jim Morrison, Head of Jeep Brand – FCA North America. “Jeep Gladiator is already the most capable midsize pickup on the planet and, with the addition of the new Mojave model, we are delivering our most passionate customers a new level of capability with the ability to master high-speed desert and sand terrains.”

Gladiator Mojave models will arrive in Jeep showrooms in the second quarter of 2020.

Legendary Jeep 4x4 capability evolves to master rugged desert terrain

Gladiator Mojave’s ability to tackle rugged and punishing desert terrain is a natural evolution of the Jeep brand’s nearly 80-year history of 4x4 capability leadership.

Jeep Gladiator Mojave models represent the ultimate in high-speed off-road capability and performance in sand environments, courtesy of the brand’s renowned 4x4 system with significant suspension upgrades and extensive testing over harsh sand and desert terrain for vehicle durability and protection. Gladiator Mojave models feature new, specially-tuned FOX™ 2.5-inch internal bypass shocks with external reservoirs, industry-exclusive FOX front hydraulic jounce bumpers, a reinforced frame, a one-inch front suspension lift with a silver front skid plate, stronger axles with cast-iron steering knuckles, aggressive front seats with integrated upper bolsters and standard 33-inch Falken Wildpeak All-terrain tires. All of these standard features enable the Gladiator Mojave to become the Jeep brand’s first Desert Rated vehicle.

The foundation: Jeep 4x4 capability

The starting point for the Mojave edition’s new level of capability is Gladiator’s proven Command-Trac 4x4 system, which features a two-speed transfer case with a 2.72:1 low-range gear ratio, and heavy-duty third-generation Dana 44 front and rear axles with a 4.10:1 axle ratio and standard electronic-locking rear differential. The Jeep Command-Trac 4x4 system is used to provide higher 4LO (low range) operating speeds for climbing sand dunes and other challenging desert events.

A best-in-class approach angle of 44.7 degrees, breakover angle of 20.9 degrees, departure angle of 25.5 degrees and a best-in-class ground clearance of 11.6 inches further enhances Gladiator Mojave’s off-road credentials. Other Gladiator Mojave capability highlights include Jeep Performance Parts step sand slider side rails, a silver front skid plate for protection over rugged sand terrain, best-in-class articulation and up to 1,200 pounds of payload and up to 6,000 pounds of towing capacity.

More durable suspension and high-performance shocks

To earn the first-ever Desert Rated badge, Jeep engineers equipped Gladiator Mojave with specially-tuned high-performance FOX 2.5-inch internal bypass shocks to maximize handling, comfort and bottom-out resistance on high-speed sand run. The FOX shocks contain internal passages that allow fluid to bypass the piston through regulated ports as it moves through the suspension travel. The result is a predictable ride over normal off-road driving conditions, with the ability to ramp up damping force in extreme use.

Front and rear external shock reservoirs keep shock fluid cool, preventing shock fade during long runs through the hot desert at high speed. Military-grade suspension fluid maintains performance at extreme temperatures and is the same fluid used in off-road racing shocks.

Industry-first FOX front hydraulic jounce bumpers act as a secondary pair of shocks, which provide additional damping force as the suspension reaches maximum compression, in order to soften impacts and prevent bottoming out in harsh off-road situations at speed. They combine race-proven technology with new, cutting-edge features to provide increased damping performance and bottom-out control in the last few inches of suspension travel. In summary, the FOX shocks and jounce bumpers provide drivers confidence and capability, including bottom-out control on harsh desert terrain at high speed, while delivering a comfortable ride over gravel washboards or broken pavement on the backroads.

A half-inch increase in the Mojave’s track provides additional stability and allows for the packaging of the larger shocks. Jeep engineers also reinforced both the frame and axle to handle rough desert terrains at high speed.

Jeep Gladiator Mojave features a one-inch front suspension lift for increased jounce travel, with a silver front skid plate and standard 33-inch Falken Wildpeak All-terrain tires or optional Falken Wildpeak Mud-terrain tires.

These engineering enhancements to the Gladiator Mojave’s suspension provide ride control and confidence on any high-speed sand or desert terrain, while an Off-Road Plus button allows drivers to take Gladiator to the next level of tractive capabilities. With a push of a button, drivers can adjust throttle, transmission shift points and traction control for peak performance on higher speed passes on sand terrain, as well as during low-speed rock crawling. The Off-Road Plus drive mode on Mojave will also feature, for the first time on Jeep, the ability for drivers to lock their rear axle at high speeds while in “4H” (this feature will debut later this year).

Proven powertrain

The Jeep Gladiator Mojave’s 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine delivers 285 horsepower and 260 lb.-ft. of torque and features engine stop-start (ESS) as standard equipment. It is engineered to provide a broad torque band with a focus on low-end torque, an essential trait needed for extreme off-roading. A six-speed manual transmission is standard with the 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 and an eight-speed automatic transmission is optional.

The 2020 Jeep Gladiator benefits from the popular V-6 engine’s low-range torque, which is needed when out on the trails or during demanding conditions, such as hauling cargo or towing a trailer.

With the standard six-speed manual transmission, Gladiator Mojave boasts an impressive crawl ratio of 57.3:1 and 52.6:1 on Mojave models equipped with the optional eight-speed automatic transmission – both of which make cresting a dune or scaling any obstacle on the trail easy.

Mojave inside and out

Inside the cabin, Gladiator Mojave features more aggressive front seats with integrated upper bolsters to hold occupants comfortably in place. The upgraded seats are available in leather or cloth with orange accent stitching and embroidered Mojave logos.

Photo credit: FCA

Mojave features two interior colors options Black and Steel Gray, as well as a competition-inspired leather-wrapped steering wheel with accent stitching that features an aggressive rim section for extra grip and ergonomic comfort.

Featuring a one-inch front suspension lift that results in a more prominent appearance, Gladiator Mojave is adorned with a unique hood decal on its heavy-duty performance hood with center scoop, unique exterior badges, orange tow hooks, unique 17 x 7.5-inch wheels, with Jeep Performance Parts step sand slider side rails between those wheels.

An available forward-facing off-road camera allows obstructions in the desert to be easily seen as well (previously a Gladiator Rubicon-exclusive option).

Jeep Desert Rated

The all-new Desert Rated badge is the first of its kind for Jeep and is a natural extension of the brand's legendary Trail Rated® designation. Desert Rated vehicles represent the ultimate in Jeep vehicle’s high-speed, off-road capability and performance in grueling desert and sand environments.

Every Desert Rated 4x4 Jeep vehicle has been developed and has succeeded against a series of strenuous tests in five categories: Ride Control and Stability, Traction, Ground Clearance, Maneuverability, and Desert Prowess.

• Ride Control and Stability: With a groundbreaking desert-tuned suspension, Gladiator Mojave tackles undulating desert terrain with uncompromising control and comfort

• Traction: By strategically managing and delivering power, Gladiator Mojave conquers unpredictable surfaces such as sand, gravel and loose dirt with confidence

• Ground Clearance: Maximized running clearances with an optimized suspension allow Gladiator Mojave to crest dunes, blast through whoops and anything else the desert can throw at it

• Maneuverability: Nimble and responsive handling allows Gladiator Mojave to become an extension of the driver when swiftly navigating desert terrain and climbing extreme angles

• Desert Prowess: Tested and proven to withstand the intense heat, coarse sand, loose gravel, and intrusive dust that accompany unforgiving desert environments

Mercedes-Benz VISION AVTR

Inspired by the future: The VISION AVTR

Mercedes-Benz VISION AVTR – inspired by AVATAR: The name of the groundbreaking concept vehicle stands not only for the close collaboration in developing the showcar together with the AVATAR team but also for ADVANCED VEHICLE TRANSFORMATION. This concept vehicle embodies the vision of Mercedes-Benz designers, engineers and trend researchers for mobility in the distant future.

Photo credit: Mercedes-Benz

Mercedes-Benz VISION AVTR – inspired by AVATAR is the result of an unprecedented global partnership between one of the most innovative brands in the entertainment industry and the eighth most valuable brand in the world, Mercedes-Benz.

Photo credit: Mercedes-Benz

Photo credit: Mercedes-Benz

Inspired by the world of Pandora – the VISION AVTR shows a completely new interaction between human, machine and nature. 

Photo credit: Mercedes-Benz

Fusion of interior and exterior: The holistic concept of the VISION AVTR combines the design disciplines interior, exterior and UX on an unprecedented scale. The distinctive inside-out design structure combines inside and outside into an emotional whole and was inspired by several creatures from the movie AVATAR. With its stretched "One Bow" design and organic design language, the VISION AVTR offers a visionary outlook on the design of the future.

Photo credit: Mercedes-Benz

Biometric connection: Instead of a conventional steering wheel, the multifunctional control element in the center console allows human and machine to merge. By placing the hand on the control unit, the interior comes to life and the vehicle recognizes the driver by his or her heartbeat and breathing.

Photo credit: Mercedes-Benz

Biometric connection: Instead of a conventional steering wheel, the multifunctional control element in the center console allows human and machine to merge. By placing the hand on the control unit, the interior comes to life and the vehicle recognizes the driver by his or her heartbeat and breathing.

Immersive experience space: By simply lifting the hand, a menu selection is projected onto the palm of the hand, through which the passenger can intuitively choose between different functionalities. For example, real-time 3D graphics can be used to explore the fictional world of Pandora from different perspectives. The curved display module creates the visual connection between passengers and the outside world.

Organic battery technology made of recyclable materials: For the first time, the VISION AVTR concept vehicle is using a revolutionary battery technology based on graphene-based organic cell chemistry that is completely free of rare earths and metals. The materials of the battery are compostable and therefore completely recyclable. In this way, electric mobility becomes independent of fossil resources. As a result, Mercedes-Benz underlines the high relevance of a future circular economy in the raw materials sector.

Photo credit: Mercedes-Benz

The vehicle as a living creature: The 33 "bionic flaps" on the back of the vehicle are reminiscent of scales of reptiles. They can communicate with the driver and through the driver with their outside world through naturally flowing movements in subtle gestures. Due to the possibility to drive the front and rear axles in the same or opposite direction, the VISION AVTR can move sideways by approx. 30 degrees, in contrast to conventional vehicles. The so-called "crab movement" gives the concept vehicle an animal-like appearance even in its movement.

Photo credit: Mercedes-Benz

Photo credit: Mercedes-Benz

Sustainable materials: The seats of the VISION AVTR are refined by vegan DINAMICA®leather. DINAMICA® is the first and only microfiber that guarantees environmental sustainability throughout the entire production cycle. The floor is decorated with an innovative wood called Karuun®. The raw material for Karuun (Rattan) grows very fast as a natural raw material and is harvested by hand in Indonesia. The material gives the interior warmth and radiates naturalness.

Photo credit: Mercedes-Benz

Photo credit: Mercedes-Benz

Photo credit: Mercedes-Benz

Bugatti Presents "La Maison Pur Sang" - Rétromobile

The new range for historical models from the traditional French brand

Tradition is one of the core pillars of Bugatti. Bugatti is launching the new “La Maison Pur Sang” program to enable even better care for the historical vehicles in the future. For the first time, the French luxury brand presented the new offer for the certification and restoration of classic Bugatti automobiles at the Rétromobile Motorshow in Paris, the annual international exhibition of classic vehicles.

The New "La Maison Pur Sang" Program“

Bugatti vehicles have always been special automobiles. Exceptional design, outstanding performance and the latest technology characterize each Bugatti,” emphasizes Stephan Winkelmann, President of Bugatti. “In order to allow owners to experience and enjoy the outstanding technology flawlessly, we have decided to provide intensive support in our factory with the “La Maison Pur Sang” program.” Luigi Galli, a new specialist for Tradition and Certification at Bugatti, has been in charge of this special task since September. In his role, he is the first point of contact for customers of historic Bugatti automobiles and the various Bugatti clubs.

The program is being rolled out gradually, based on the certification of the authenticity of historic cars. The genuineness of an automobile is determined by Luigi Galli and his team of experts through intensive research of all available information - historical documents, admission registers, photo documents, or even the comparison of certain component numbers. After successive stages of expansion, the restoration of historic automobiles from Bugatti will also be carried out in the future.

“Tradition and history are a great privilege, but also a great responsibility for us. We are always faced by it. We’re conscious of our 110+ years of tradition and want to enable many of our historical vehicles to continue to drive perfectly on the road or to be in collections even after decades,” explains Stephan Winkelmann. "With 'La Maison Pur Sang' we offer an official framework for these automotive treasures. It is very important to protect and preserve Bugatti's tradition and heritage, as well as the existing knowledge of the brand. ”

Bugatti Veyron Turns 15 - with a New Loyalty Program

Fifteen years have passed since its world premiere - and yet the Veyron is as fit as ever with appropriate maintenance. It is not for nothing that Bugatti offers a loyalty program for the Veyron, which makes it possible to extend the guarantee. This makes Bugatti the only manufacturer to offer a warranty on its vehicles even after more than twelve years. Regular, annual maintenance at the authorized Bugatti contract partner is required. Preventive measures and comprehensive service can ensure that the hyper sports car is guaranteed to bring its inner beast to the road in a controlled and reliable manner. The best thing: technical solutions and shorter service times with regular maintenance reduce the total cost for the customer by half.

If you want to give your Veyron a fresh new look, you can do so in the future. In the first step, reconfiguration and restoration is offered for the Bugatti Veyron, followed by recertification. Specially trained technicians in Molsheim examine the vehicles closely and record every detail. Then they combine the results in an extensive booklet. Measurement taking as part of the loyalty program and “La Maison Pur Sang” will further support the positive performance of the Bugatti Veyron in recent few years.

Bugatti Booth at Rétromobile 2020

Photo credit: Bugatti

In addition to the new program, Bugatti shows off part of its glorious tradition. The models of Bugatti Type 35C, EB110 SS and Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport are on the stand of the Paris Expo Porte de Versailles; three vehicles that showcase the development of the luxury brand for hyper sports cars from Alsace. “The Bugatti Type 35, EB110 SS and the Veyron represent the three eras of their eventful history, which they are proud to look back on,” said by Stephan Winkelmann. “These vehicles are great examples of our hyper sports car tradition and valuable collectibles that continue to increase in value over time.”

Photo credit: Bugatti

With over 2000 victories, the Type 35 is the most successful racing car of all time. Between 1920 and 1930 it was the car to be beat. For the first time, Ettore Bugatti used a double roller bearing and triple ball bearing crank operation - the crankshaft is still considered an engineering masterpiece today. It could be rotated at up to 6000 rpm to move the eight pistons in the initially 2.0 liter engine. The engine produced up to 140 HP, which almost 100 years ago was an incomparably powerful performance.

After Bugatti hibernated in the late 1950s, Roman Artioli revived the brand in 1987. To this end, he built a new plant in Campogalliano and in 1991 created the EB110, a vehicle with sensational technology. Four-wheel drive, a 3.5-liter V12 engine, 560 hp and a torque of 611 Nm made this Bugatti the fastest production car of its time - in the EB110 SS (Super Sport) version, it drove up to 351 km/h.

With the Veyron, Bugatti redefined the car world under new aegis. It is powered by an eight-liter 16-cylinder engine with over 1000 hp, which accelerates the coupé to over 400 km/h. It is the first production car with over 1,000 hp, the first car that drives at 400 km/h. Nevertheless, it doesn't drive like a rock-hard super sports car, but like a luxurious Gran Coupé. The first hyper sports car in automotive history, an icon and a solitaire of technology. With the Veyron, Bugatti is catapulting itself into a new dimension, setting standards in technology and luxury. In 2010, the 1200 hp Veyron Super Sport set another speed record with a top speed of 431 km/h.

The Retromobile Motorshow in Paris is one of the most important classic car fairs in the world. With 620 exhibitors on 72000 square meters at the center of Paris, the fair attracts more than 130000 visitors annually. Paris has a special meaning for Bugatti. In the city on the Seine, Bugatti presented the EB110 to the public for the first time on September 15th, 1991 - on Ettore Bugatti's 110th birthday. For presentation three EB110s drive over the Champs-Élysées. A historic event to this day - in keeping with the brand.

Photo credit: Bugatti

Audi racing drivers thrill fans at GP Ice Race

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• Daniel Abt, René Rast, and Benoît Tréluyer put in a spectacular show in Zell am See

• Audi e-tron FE06 and Audi RS 5 DTM sideways on ice and snow

• Rally legend Stig Blomqvist drives historic Audi Sport Quattro

Spectacular drifts on ice and snow: at the second running of the GP Ice Race in Austria’s Zell am See, Formula E driver Daniel Abt and DTM champion René Rast tackled slippery terrain with their Audi race cars. The 1984 World Rally Champion Stig Blomqvist and triple Le Mans winner Benoît Tréluyer joined the Audi show.

Photo credit: Audi

Hildegard Wortmann, a member of the Board of Management responsible for marketing and sales, was present and joined René Rast in the Audi RS 5 DTM as well as Stig Blomqvist in the Audi Sport Quattro for several fast laps. “It was an impressive experience,” she said. “It was great to see the enthusiasm of the many fans at the circuit, they were treated to a tremendous show: a unique event that connects the history, the present and the future of motorsport.”

Photo credit: Audi

After the traditional ice race in Zell am See had celebrated a revival after 45 years last year, Audi racing drivers again treated spectators to an enthralling show. Daniel Abt turned several spectacular laps on snow with his Audi e-tron FE06 from the FIA Formula E and pulled the freestyle ski ace, Benedikt Mayr, on a rope, in traditional skijoring-style, behind his Formula E racer. “Bene is a professional skier, I drive race cars, so we had the idea to do something together here again,” said Abt. “Over time, this event with exciting racing cars from several marques and eras has turned into a hot spot of the motor racing scene. The drivers spend a great day together, there’s no competition pressure, and we give the fans a great show.”

Photo credit: Audi

In difficult conditions around freezing point, the two-time DTM champion René Rast shared driving duties in his Audi RS 5 DTM #33 with Frenchman Benoît Tréluyer. Because the DTM-Audi lacked the required traction last year on ice, the rims were now twelve centimeters narrower and significantly slimmer studded tires were fitted. “After we had adjusted the setup for the soft, deep surface and to the special tires, my run in the DTM-Audi over snow was huge fun for the fans,” reported Rast.

Photo credit: Audi

The spectacular display of the Audi brand was made perfect thanks to Stig Blomqvist. The former Audi factory driver, who won the World Rally Championship in 1984 in an Audi, piloted the historic Audi Sport Quattro. Benoît Tréluyer drove another classic: in the skijoring event, the 2012 FIA World Endurance Champion towed the 1987 slalom World Champion Frank Wörndl with a historic DKW F91. Wörndl was on Willy Bogner’s original 1960 Olympic skis.

SENNA GTR TO JOIN FOUR ICONIC McLAREN F1 CARS AND RARE M6GT AT RETROMOBILE IN PARIS

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Photo credit: McLaren

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• New McLaren Senna GTR to star at Retromobile on Richard Mille stand

• 25th anniversary of the Le Mans 24 Hours victory – a stunning display of Le Mans-winning McLaren F1 GTR and class-winning Longtail to headline McLaren F1 quartet

• Cesare Baldaccini ‘art car’ and pristine F1 road car also set to shine at Paris show

• McLaren display on Richard Mille stand completed by M6GT

The new McLaren Senna GTR will be joined by four stunning McLaren F1 cars and a rare McLaren M6GT at Retromobile in Paris on February 5-9. The past and future classics will be presented at the show by famed watchmaking brand and McLaren Automotive partner Richard Mille.

The Senna GTR is the latest and most extreme expression of the ultimate track car from McLaren. Unshackled from road regulations, the newest Ultimate Series GTR is distinguished from its street-legal sibling by striking aerodynamic additions, including a huge rear wing and diffuser making it the fastest track McLaren outside of the group’s Racing division.

The incredible McLaren F1 line-up is headlined by the GT01R, better known as the Le Mans-winning Ueno Clinic-liveried F1 GTR. Crewed by JJ Lehto, Yannick Dalmas, and Masanori Sekiya, the number 59 car powered McLaren into the history books with victory on its debut in the French endurance classic.

Also competing in the same race, F1 GTR #42 turned heads for its striking livery. It was prepared by French team BBA Compétition, whose founder Jean-Luc Maury-Laribiére commissioned famous compatriot, sculptor Cesare “César” Baldaccini to create its artistic facade.

Two years later and in response to increasing competition, McLaren updated the F1 with the ‘Longtail’ that would inspire McLaren’s extreme road cars, including the 675LT and 600LT. Liveried in Gulf colors and wearing race number 41, GT020R Longtail was helmed by Jean-Marc Gounon, Pierre-Henri Raphanel, and Anders Olofsson to second place overall and first in the GT1 category, a formidable 29 laps clear of the highest-placed car from another manufacturer in class.

The collection of McLaren F1 cars is completed by chassis 69, one of the last road cars to be built in the final year of production, 1998. Offered for sale by McLaren Special Operations (MSO) in 2016, F1 #69 is presented in Carbon Black complimented by subtle detailing throughout, whilst inside the central driving seat is finished in black and contrasting red leather, with the dual passenger seats upholstered in Alcantara®. With fewer than 2,800 miles on the clock when it was offered for sale four years ago, this is one of the finest examples of this legendary car.

The McLaren F1s will be complemented by one of only four McLaren M6GT cars ever built. Representing the genesis of McLaren Automotive, the M6GT was developed from the M6 Can-Am racer by Bruce McLaren with the intention of selling a race car for the road. Half a century later, the company he founded has fully realized that dream with a range of innovative supercars that includes the 720S, GT and Speedtail.

Held in the largest and most prestigious hall at the Porte de Versailles Exhibition Centre, Paris, Retromobile is an annual showcase of motoring heritage with over 1,000 vehicles on display. The show runs from February 5-9.

“While we are focussed on creating future classics including the Senna GTR that will be on display at Retromobile, it is equally as important to celebrate McLaren’s incredible road car heritage. The F1 remains an enduring icon of motoring culture and the four cars on the show perfectly represent its remarkable road and racing legacy. Yet a quarter of a century before, our founder had expressed a bold ambition to create high-performance cars for the road starting with the M6GT – in many ways the inspiration for today’s McLaren GT - and it will be wonderful to see this car joined by its descendants at Retromobile.”

Alex Long, Managing Director, Europe, McLaren Automotive.

Edelbrock Owners Acquire COMP Performance Group

February 5, 2020

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Industrial Opportunity Partners (IOP), an operations-focused private equity firm based in Evanston, Illinois, and owner of Edelbrock LLC, announced the acquisition of the COMP Performance Group.

Edelbrock and the COMP Performance Group, along with their respective management teams, will operate as independent organizations.

Both teams will continue to provide the same designs, products, and service as they explore opportunities to drive increased products and customer offerings.

Edelbrock designs, manufactures, and distributes automotive aftermarket performance parts and is based in Torrance, California.

The COMP Performance Group, with headquarters in Memphis, Tennessee, is a family of aftermarket performance companies that includes brands such as COMP Cams, TCI, FAST, RHS, ZEX, Inglese, and more.

For more information, visit edelbrock.com or compperformancegroup.com.

Why I call bull shit on Alex Choi latest Unicorn V3 build.

By Mario GearVlogz.

In Alex Choi’s latest video, he makes the claims that his Lamborghini Huracan is street legal and not a race car it is registered and will pass smog. What Alex chooses to do to his car is his own prerogatives. From adding the Exoskeleton or as he calls it “monkey bars” or that he chooses to have a 1 off project custom build twin turbo kit from Sheepey Race be installed. I still do not have a problem of it even though current comments and dislike ratio for my video shows otherwise. I do not care.

Like the overused phrase that we’ve all come tried of hiring these days “Fake News”. When I hear him say “Keep in mind this car is fully street legal. It is not a race car, this car will pass smog believe it or not. It has a license plate and it is registered. Which means I will be driving this car a lot.” Timestamp 8:19 mark of his unveiling video.

After being within the automotive industry the past ten plus years and living in California In my humble option that twin turbo kit is not street legal by California Air Resouce boards standards. As Sheepey Race or Sheepey Custom, Inc. it does not appear on the listed database of manufacturers with issued Executive Ordered number (E.O.#) a Requirement for any manufacturer that wishes to sell an aftermarket part that is to be used on a pollution controlled vehicle operating on California public roads.

Choi as an automotive influencer should at the very least be providing correct information and not listing false information that someone may follow then again if someone that has over $32K+ to have a similar kit installed onto their Audi/Lamborghini can afford to pay to have it removed and paid whatever fines that are levied upon them.

Alex Choi’s video Introducing Unicorn V3, The TWIN TURBO LAMBORGHINI RALLY CAR

YouTuber Samcrac-vs-Dominos

By Mario GearVLogz

My thoughts on youtuber samcrac-vs-dominos over a salvaged chevy spark dxp delivery vehicle. The website jalopnik has an article on their site regarding the recent legal issues that fellow youtuber Samcrac is having with dominos over the rebuild of one of their former dxp delivery vehicles.  In my video I give you my take on this whole issue.

Link to my Video: https://youtu.be/l4SblOyW23s

Links to Samcrac YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/user/Samcrac

Link to Jalopnik article:  https://jalopnik.com/domino-s-franchise-threatens-youtuber-who-restored-dxp-1823859448