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  • Volkswagen E-Bugster Concept to show up in Detroit


    Volkswagen has revealed this cool-looking E-Bugster Concept ahead of its official début at this year’s North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

    Power for the purely electrically powered E-Bugster Concept comes via the same unit as seen in the Golf Blue-e-Motion. Fed by a lithium-ion battery, the motor generates a maximum power output of 85 kW (114 hp) and a continuous 50 kW (67 hp). Maximum torque from a stop is an impressive 270 Nm (199 lb/ft), while the E-Bugster’s range can cover at least 150 kilometres. The 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) sprint is carried out in 10.9 seconds.

    Visually, the Concept bares many similarities to the new Beetle apart from a three inch roof chop and lower screen which results in a sportier, more slippery appearance.

    At the front there’s a pair of C-shaped LED daytime running lights, while at the rear the boot lid receives a subtle spoiler.

    [Source: Volkswagen] (more…)

  • Porsche 911 GT2 R Flat by Albert Motorsport


    Well known for its involvement in competitions and car preparation, Albert Motorsport, the Oberhausen-based Porsche specialist has unveiled its latest project, the 911 GT2 R Flat.

    Looking a little like a squashed 911 GT3 R, this animal actually began life as humble Porsche 996 model – before the guys took an angle grinder to its pillars. The roof chop gives it a look reminiscent of 9ff’s crazy GT9-CS, while the addition of 997.2 lights helps to create a modern appearance. The facelift panels are constructed from lightweight fibreglass as is the roof section.

    Inside the car there’s an extensive roll cage along with a charge cooler which feeds cold air to the twin-turbocharged flat six engine.

    The 911 GT2 R Flat will be making its début at Zandvoort Circuit today, to take part in the four-hour race. If you can’t make it there you can always browse through Albert Motorsport’s 209 photos following its build.

    [Source: Albert Motorsport] (more…)

  • AutoWeek: Volkswagen up! vs Kia Picanto


    Last year, Dutch motoring magazine AutoWeek declared Kia’s Picanto as the benchmark for the A-segment, but with the introduction of Volkswagen’s new up! model has the Picanto lost its crown? (more…)

  • Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG by Inden Design


    Flammersbach-based tuning specialists Inden Design has created a moderate tuning package for the exquisite Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG model.

    Already producing an impressive 420 kW (571 hp) and 649 Nm (479 lb-ft) of torque, Inden adds its new exhaust manifolds and high-flow sports cats – along with a reworked ECU, which sees output rise to 465 kW (623 hp).

    Externally, a set of the company’s alloy wheels add extra visual impact to the Gullwing’s appearance. Measuring 10.5 × 20 inches all round, they’re wrapped in 265/30 and 295/30 rubber.

    [Source: Inden Design] (more…)

  • Autocar drives the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Roadster


    Vicky Parrott recently drove the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Roadster for UK motoring magazine Autocar to see how it compares to its gullwing-doored counterpart. (more…)

  • Project-X Mercedes-Benz Vito by Pioneer


    Mercedes-Benz has joined forces with Pioneer GB to build Project-X – a DJ van filled with Pioneer’s high-power entertainment products.

    Using the Mercedes-Benz Vito 122CDI Sport-X Dualiner as a base vehicle, the Vito is powered by a 3.0 V6 diesel unit that develops 167 kW (224 hp) and 440 Nm (325 lb/ft) of torque, enough for a in 8.3 second 0-100 km/h (62 mph) sprint. Although, with over € 30,000 worth of Pioneer kit on-board, that time may be have dropped a little.

    Inside the Vito, Pioneer has added a pair of 15” competition class SPL subs and four 10” Champion Series subs, ensuring a powerful and wide-ranging bass response. There’s also a mixer and two Pioneer CDJ digital decks. This monster system is fed by eight amplifiers and four batteries. Scarily, the speaker power handling capability is a jaw-dropping 30,050 watts!

    Visually the Vito receives metallic paintwork, colour-coded bumpers, a chrome grille and sidebars, lowered suspension, a sports exhaust and Brabus alloy wheels.

    [Source: Mercedes-Benz UK]