Lamborghini Aventador LP 700-4 launch control


Option Auto, the French motoring magazine thrashes Lamborghini’s epic Aventador LP 700-4 to demonstrate its launch control system. Propelled by a 6.5 L V12 engine, the Aventador flies to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) in just 2.9 seconds, while top speed is 350 km/h (217 mph). Lovely stuff.

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smart previews for-us pick-up concept


smart has previewed a pick-up concept, the for-us, ahead of its official début at the Detroit Auto Show early next year.

Fuel for the dinky urban pick-up comes in the form of a lithium-ion battery with a capacity of 17.6 kWh which powers a magneto-electric motor that develops 55 kW (74 hp) and 130 Nm (96 lb-ft) of torque – enough to allow a top speed of 120 km/h (74 mph).

Measuring just 3547 mm in length and 1506 mm in width, the for-us is small compared to its peers, but has a 613 mm longer wheelbase and 50 mm wider track than the fortwo, helping to make use of its bijou dimensions.

Once the tailgate is slid down, the 900 mm cargo area not only reveals mounting points to accommodate a pair of smart ebikes, but, thanks to the integrated docking station, both bikes are kept fully charged for when the occupants need to venture into traffic-calmed zones – and beyond.

The North American International Auto Show will run from 14 – 22 January.

[Source: smart]

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MINI JCW Championship package


MINI has unveiled an optical program for Cooper S Countryman and Cooper SD Countryman owners looking to add a rally feel to their machine.

The MINI John Cooper Works Championship package consists of chequered flag go-faster stripes for the flanks, along with the familiar 37 for the doors; a number currently seen on Dani Sordo’s WRC car, but synonymous with Paddy Hopkirk’s iconic 1964 Monte Carlo Rally-winning vehicle.

There’s also a pair of carbon fibre slanting side scuttles on the fenders, and additional spotlights up front which are available in Chrome and Black, while the Double Spoke R129 alloy wheels are finished in Matte Black.

[Source: MINI]

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