German Car Scene

Month: August 2012

  • Challenge carbon fibre BMW M5 roof


    iND has announced details of a bare carbon fibre roof panel to suit the latest BMW M5 model.

    A joint collaboration between iND and Challenge Engineering, who also manufacture it, the direct-replacement section is available in various weave designs and tips the scales at just 11.5 lbs.

    It’s definitely a great addition to any F10M and, with the M3 and M6 already wearing them, it makes us wonder why the 418 kW (560 hp) monster saloon was overlooked from the start. Pricing has yet to be announced.
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  • AMG takes us behind the scenes


    Here’s a fascinating video offering an exclusive tour of the AMG factory in Affalterbach. See what goes into producing a Mercedes-AMG model from design to showroom, not forgetting those glorious, sledgehammer engines.

    Originally founded in 1967 as a racing engine forge by two former Mercedes engineers Hans Werner Aufrecht and Erhard Melcher, DaimlerChrysler became the sole owner in 2005 after taking a controlling interest fifteen years earlier.
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  • MacGyver is back, and this time he’s driving a Mercedes-Benz Citan


    Cult secret agent MacGyver is making a return to our screens to promote the new Citan van from Mercedes-Benz.

    OK, so now he’s a relatively humble handyman, but it seems that he still can’t leave his past behind him as viewers will see him facing new challenges in three webisodes from September 18, coinciding with the Citan’s world début at the IAA Commercial Vehicle Show in Hanover. No doubt the versatility of the Citan will be invaluable, especially the duct tape dispenser.

    Power will come from a choice of three turbodiesel engines ranging from 55 kW (75 hp) to 81 kW (110 hp) as well as a supercharged petrol version developing 84 kW (114 hp). An electric drive E-CELL model is also in the pipeline.

    Check out the brilliant trailer below.
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  • Hamann Motorsport previews BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe


    Laupheim-based tuning specialist Hamann Motorsport has previewed its forthcoming program for BMW’s 6 Series Gran Coupe with this rendering.

    No information accompanied the teaser image, but from what we can see, there’s an aggressively-styled front bumper with large air intakes and side vents, a clear-coated ventilated hood in carbon fibre and a pair of side skirts. The company’s usual range of alloy wheels will also be available, including the 22-inch Anniversary EVO items pictured here.

    [Source: Hamann Motorsport]

  • Rolls-Royce enters into the spirit of the Olympics


    If you witnessed any of the London 2012 Olympics; from the opening ceremony to last night’s show-stopping ceremony, you will have noticed BMW’s presence, from the humble MINI right up to these specially prepared Phantom Series II Drophead Coupes.

    The only real change, carried out by the Rolls-Royce Bespoke Design Team, is a change of badging: a first for the company in its 108-year history. The trio, which starred in last night’s ‘A Symphony of British Music’ spectacle, feature Union Flag detailing within the Spirit of Ecstasy’s gown on the grille and side badges, a laurel wreath and torch emblem on the steering wheel, special London 2012 ‘One of Three’ sill plates and wheel centre caps with the Games’ ‘Citius, Altius, Fortius’ motto. The cars are purely for exhibition purposes and not for sale, so put your wallet away.

    “I am delighted that Rolls-Royce Motor Cars was invited to take part in celebrating the success of the Games and it is appropriate that we should recognise this occasion with a fitting tribute,” said Rolls-Royce chief, Torsten Müller-Ötvös.
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  • BMW 328i by iND and 3D Design


    Palatine-based tuning specialist iND Distribution has put this F30 3 Series project together, highlighting its wares.

    Based on an Imperial Blue 328i Sport Line model, the Saloon uses a urethane lower front lip from the Japanese company, 3D Design, while the gloss black front grille sections, front reflectors and lower whiskers are from iND. Other goodies include a set of BBS CH-R wheels, measuring 8.5 and 9.5×19-inches, a BMW M Performance brake upgrade and a H&R sport spring kit.

    Future changes include an Eisenmann exhaust system, a more serious suspension set-up and a 3D Design roof spoiler and boot lid lip – just as soon as they make their journey across the globe. Watch this space.
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