Spain is one of the leading nations when it comes to developing renewable energy resources and a lot of expenditure has been done to see green commuters on the road. The nation hopes that 30% of its 2010 energy needs will be met with these renewable sources. As far as the Seat IBE goes, the concept was in Geneva staging a 75-kiloWatt motor capable of producing 200Nm of torque which helped the car pelt to 50Km/h in 3.4 seconds. Given that VW is the parent organization which owns Seat, we are hoping for some real good features on the production ready Seat IBE.

The S-Class plug-in will fetch 81mpg courtesy of a combination of 3.0-liter V-6 gasoline engine-direct injection and piezo injectors-integrated with a 44 kW electric motor. Singly, on the batteries, the semi-electric commuter will have a range of 20 miles with speeds up to 68mph. The only drawback as far as the next-generation S-Class plug-in hybrid is concerned will be its pricing.

The kit comes with new side skirts, a rear diffuser and a rear wing all of which are made of carbon fiber. Though the engine mod details have not been made public, the tuning house claims that the GT600 helps the car with better acceleration while the use of Carbon-ceramic brakes take care of the speed. On the inside, the passengers get sports seats and a rollover cage. Available for order right away, the BF team can even redo the Gallardo with a rear-wheel drive-train.

[via MotorTrend]

Audi did not clearly mention that it will be a revitalized A2 but it hinted that there was scope for range expansion between the A1 and the A3. The touted A2 may be an extended version of the A1 or an all new automobile altogether. Speculations are also ripe about an electric version of the A2 but we will prefer waiting on that for a while, at least till the A2 is re-introduced in the market. No news on whether the A2 will ever make it to the American shores again. [via WCF]

It is a near production ready variant that gets a showcasing in Geneva featuring revised styling changes and production ready equipment. Initially, only 100 prototypes of the Joule EV will be manufactured for testing and development purposes following which the EV will hit thorough production in the later half of 2012.

All these prototypes will be hand-built by Hi-Tech Automotive and once production begins it will be Germany’s EDAG and South Korea’s Energy Innovation Group who will supply the parts. The Joule EV is touted to have a maximum range of 143 miles when using the New European Driving Cycle or 186 miles when running on the Urban Dynamometer Driving Schedule.

The world wants to see the smallest ever car and Tata is at the Geneva event with an electric version of the Nano. Sure Tata is no global automobile manufacturing giant but, it does want to capture the world with its electronically powered vehicles where Tata Nano EV will make a beginning. Set to go on sale in Europe next year as a 20102 model, the Nano EV will use the batteries which also power its Tata Indica Vista EV. Overall, the Nano EV headed to Europe will be 20 centimeters longer and it will sport better suspension along with anti-lock brakes. The Nano EV will probably have a 0 to 60km/h dash timing of less than 10 seconds and an anticipated range of 160kilometres.

The AC Schnitzer tuning program gets an added front and rear spoilers along with more aggressive looking side skirts and a ventilated hood. Other noticeable changes include a redesigned rear end, an all new set of wheels and chrome exhaust tips. On the inside, the AC Schnitzer tuned BMW 5-Series GT gets aluminium pedals, an all new cover for the i-Drive controller and pleasing velour footmats. The tuning program also kicks up the performance with a 41HP power boost to the engine.

GeigerCars can never see those ponies hitting the tarmac with limited amount of energy under the hood, and this time around it is the Mustang Shelby GT500 which gets blessed with some power to scorch the roads. GeigerCars did not find the 540PS satisfactory and hence is treat the Mustang to render a nerve racking 810PS which kicks the top speed up to 220mph also the 0 to 60mph dash timing remains a secret. As far as the torque is concerned, the 5.4-liter V8 engine now does 945 Nm and the extra energy produced is taken care of with more coolers and better air flow set-up. 2010 Ford Shelby GT500 Mustang also gets new racing chassis.

The diesel variant also gets a power hike where its TDi engine can now churn 395hp with up to 880Nm of torque. Extra power brings in better braking courtesy of larger ventilated steel disc brakes. The suspension has also been lowered (40 to 80mm) albeit, it returns to the standard levels when traveling at 80mph. Minor exterior modifications include a new front end that has larger air inlets along with front fender outlets and even the side sills have been redesigned. On the rear, the Hofele Design 2010 Audi A8 gets a remodeled bumper and a quad exhaust.

Finished in Azurite Black paint, the DBS UB-2010 gets metallic bronze leather finishing along with Cryptic Titan trim and special sill plates marked by the Bez production. The DBS UB-2010 will be limited to 40 units, 20 of which will be Volantes while the other 20 will be Coupes. The second special edition model is the V12 Vantage Carbon Black. The limited edition model features a rare metallic paintjob which required 50-man hours of hand painting, something which is complimented with carbon fiber side strakes, and black diamond turned alloy wheels. Aston Martin is also using the Geneva event to showcase Works Service Tailored – a bespoke styling program.

The iRacer version unveiled in Geneva is closest to the production model and the designer Elliott Hawkins believes that it has electric pulse running through its veins. The body construction material such as aluminum and recyclable plastics keeps the overall car weight down to 600kg. On the inside, the Westfield iRacer is powered Lithium Phosphate battery which produces 109PS with 1,000Nm of torque and this combination helps the car pelt from 0 to 60mph in less than 5 seconds with an overall top seed of 177km/h.

They surely find the standard 5-Series option a tad smaller which is why BMW is almost ready with its LWB S-Series variant that was spotted testing for cold weather conditions. The LWB 5-Series variant will fittingly break cover at the Beijing International Automotive Exhibition which is to be held in April. BMW 5-Series LWB is 12-inches longer than the standard model which gives it an overall length of 5.04 meters, making it comparable to the previous generation 7 series. Other than China, 5-Series LWB may also make it to the Middle East dealerships. [via WCF]

Can you imagine that for some people, simply owning a Lamborghini Gallardo is not enough? That seems to be the case with this guy who’s showing off with a custom bike (bearing the Lambo moniker) and a custom trailer to carry it around town. So if we’re to make the math, it’s $250k for the car, some $150k for the bike and another $10k for the trailer — a total of $410k, just to be seen. Not bad, eh?

Precisely, the 2011 Ford Mustang has officially achieved an EPA fuel economy rating of 31mpg on the highway and 19mpg in the city becoming the fist 300hp car to achieve such economy numbers. The 2011 Mustang comes with an all-aluminum 3.7-litre V6 engine which achieves such high efficiency numbers when mated to a six speed automatic transmission. There is also a manual transmission version which too returns 29mpg on the highway while the city numbers stay unaltered.

As far as we remember, watchmaker TAG Heuer has never before been associated with an electric sports car company like Tesla. TAG Heuer has been closely associated with top-notch racing teams in the past but it now understands that even the performance seeking drivers need to ride on green wheels, which is why TAG Heuer has joined hands to build a one-off Tesla roadster. Currently on display at the ongoing 80th Geneva Motor Show, this electric roadster will feature a centre console hosting TAG Heuer’s latest concept watch that is to be separately revealed in a star-studded party at Baselworld 2010. Other Heuer influences in the car will include a TAG Heuer Meridiist mobile phone and a one-fifth second Heuer Limited Edition Stopwatch.

It is no hidden fact that Lada owns a major share in the F1 Renault unit and even Russian PM Vladimir Putin has announced that Lada will sponsor the Renault F1 team in 2010 and even the financial participation in the project could increase later on. It seems fitting for Renault F1 unit to embrace the Lada branding for that at least gives the French automaker a chance to exist in the F1 arena.

From what we’re hearing the LX570 hides a 5,7-litre V8 engine under the hood that sports a whopping 270 kW at 5,600 rpm and a peak torque of 530Nm at 3,600 rpm. This monsterish powerplant is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission and a full-time four-wheel drive system. Convinced? In South Africa, the new Lexus LX570 will cost a steep R1,085,000.

Check out the press release and more pictures, after the break.

Lexus LX570: The Ultimate Luxury In Four-Wheel Drive

Lexus welcomes its most capable off-road vehicle to South Africa, the Lexus LX570. With exceptional off-road credentials, the urban prowess only a Lexus could offer, ample power and presence, the LX570 will provide the status and image of the ultimate luxury SUV.

Engineers set out to build the most capable off-road vehicle ever produced without sacrificing the level of luxury expected of a Lexus. The LX570 offers the very best of off-road capability, yet benefits its occupants with every conceivable feature and typical Lexus refinement. It’s everything you’d expect of a Lexus and so much more thanks to its versatility of performance.

“We’re having a busy time of bringing a multitude of new Lexus products to South Africa, appealing to a constantly broadening variety of segments and customers,” says Kevin Flynn, General Manager of Lexus SA. “The latest LX570 brings yet a further dimension to the Lexus line-up in the wake of the recent introduction of our performance sedan, the IS-F. Not only is the LX570 a formidable off-road vehicle but in true Lexus style it offers luxurious accommodations of a first class standard.”

A full array of standard luxury amenities are on offer including: four-zone independent climate control, Lexus HDD Navigation System, Mark Levinson Sound System with 19 speakers and six disk DVD changer and rear seat entertainment, Smart Access keyless entry system with push-button start and more.

The LX570 luxury SUV adopts characteristics of the brand’s L-finesse design theme. The wide grille, with its “arrowhead” corner treatment, character lines integrated into the bumper, and large projector headlights convey a distinctly purposeful look. Pronounced wheel arches add an element of ruggedness to the elegant profile. Standard running boards fit closely to the body for an integrated appearance.

Inside, the LX570 is just as inviting with ample space for up to eight passengers and their cargo. The first-in-class standard power-sliding second-row seat slides forward and back for passenger comfort and cargo storage versatility. The second-row seatbacks provide a convenient 40/20/40 split and have been specially engineered to make tumbling it forward easy for anyone. A power retractable third-row seat is standard. The split rear tailgate features an electrically operated door on which the window and tailgate sections can be opened and closed using the key card or switch on the instrument panel.

The LX570’s 5,7-litre V8 delivers the punch and towing power demanded in this segment. The powerplant produces 270kW at 5,600 rpm and peak torque of 530Nm at 3,600 rpm. The V8 is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission designed to handle high torque while performing with Lexus quietness and smoothness. A sequential shift mode allows the driver to select gears manually. Even at very low speeds, such as trail driving, the transmission operates smoothly and imperceptibly.

The LX570’s transfer case provides full-time four-wheel drive that is equally adept at handling the rigours of slippery, muddy conditions. A 2.618:1 low-range ratio is available for challenging driving surfaces. The system uses a TORSEN® limited-slip locking centre differential to distribute power 40:60 front-to-rear, directing more power to the wheels with the best grip should slippage occur.

Four-wheel Active Traction Control (A-TRAC) employs both brake and throttle intervention to help control wheel spin. Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) helps maintain directional control during cornering and can be disengaged via the “TRAC off” switch.
The Crawl Control feature provides improved throttle modulation when manoeuvring over rough, uneven or difficult surfaces. Hill-start Assist Control (HAC) helps provide additional control for off-road driving by helping to keep the vehicle from rolling back while starting on a steep incline or slippery surface.

The LX570’s highly capable chassis is equipped with an advanced electro-hydraulic suspension system with four-wheel Active Height Control (AHC) and Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS). The high-mount, independent double-wishbone front suspension allows for nine inches of total front wheel travel for outstanding articulation over rough roads and obstacles. The four-link trailing-arm rear suspension retains the solid-axle configuration for strength and durability.

The Adaptive Variable Suspension system responds to the different inputs and spring rates, and it adjusts the shock absorber damping force to provide optimal handling and comfort for on-road or trail driving. AVS provides three modes to control the spring rate and shock absorber damping force.

Safety was a prime focus area in the development of the LX570. It therefore comes equipped with 10 standard airbags, including driver- and front-passenger knee airbags, front and second-row seat-mounted side airbags in the outboard seating positions, and side curtain airbags for all three rows. All eight seating positions feature three-point seatbelts. The second-row seatbelts integrate pre-tensioners for the outboard seats and an ELR (Emergency Locking Retractor) seatbelt for the centre seat.

Safety is further enhanced by features such as Active Front Headrests and the standard dual-swivel Adaptive Front lighting System (AFS).

The multi-terrain ABS system determines road-surface conditions and automatically optimises lock-up control, selecting the suitable ABS profile for on- and off-road driving surfaces. Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) ensures balanced braking force between the front and rear wheels, while Brake Assist (BA) provides auxiliary force to assist the driver during emergency braking
“The Lexus LX570 affirms the brand’s status as an authority on dynamic luxury, without sacrificing anything in the way of performance or off-road abilities. It’s everything you could possibly desire from an SUV,” concludes Flynn.

Mansory Rolls Royce Ghost has Blue covering almost the entire bodywork while gold is found at places like the grille, front wheel houses and even the door handles. The Mansory Ghost is a better performer than the customary one thanks to the addition of a new rear spoiler, a rear skirt, a rear diffuser and the double sport exhaust system. The unusually tinged Ghost churns a stunning 710 ponies at 5,850 rpm with up to 1,020 Nm of torque courtesy of-ECU calibration, twin turbos, a sports manifold and sports catalysers.

Wiesmann GTMF4-S admirers will love the ongoing Geneva Motor Show for two reasons; one that the GTMF4-S will be on display through out the event, and two that Wiesmann has finally announced the pricing of this stunning automobile. At €133,800 which excludes tax and labor costs, the Wiesmann GTMF4-S will be a rare automobile which will turn heads on the streets. The ultra-expensive GTMF4-S is blessed with BMW M3’s 4.0-liter V8 engine that churns 414hp and up to 400Nm of torque. The same engine helps the M3 pelt from 0 to 100km/h in less than 5 seconds while the Wiesmann beast can achieve the feat in 4 seconds with an overall top speed of 300km/h.

The Mercedes-Benz F800 Style broke cover at the ongoing 80th Geneva Motor Show and while a few view it as a research design study which will be an inspiration for future models, there is group of believers that believe it is the 2011 CLS Class.

The F800 Style can use two different powertrains which include a plug-in unit or a fuel cell option. As a fuel-cell powered com muter the F800 motor can get 101kW of energy along with 290Nm of torque although the range wasn’t revealed.

As a plug-in option mated to a V6 engine, F800 manages 403 hp on a combined cycle. The plug-in F800 manages a top speed of 120km/h when only running on the 81kW motor and 249km/h when running on the V6 petrol engine. The F800 manages the 0 to 60mph dash in an impressive 4.7 seconds.

For the ones thinking it to be the next generation CLS, take note that the F800 is seven inches shorter in length which is because of the stubbed rear and a uniquely designed front fascia.

For me the VW Golf R is a pretty solid and powerful commuter considering the segment it belongs to but there are a few who beg to differ. For them, Abt Sportsline has introduced a powerful version of the Golf R which manages to hit the 266 hp mark courtesy of a 2.0L TSI engine under normal circumstances. The Abt magic helps the Golf R achieve 306 hp and the additional pony count helps the car dash from to 100km/h in an impressive 5.2 seconds with an overall top-speed of 261/km/h. The Abt Golf VI GTI influence can also be seen on the Abt Golf R with similar front skirting, front lip spoiler and Abt daytime running lights.

More power is complimented with a widened track both at the front and the rear, while the suspension has been made tougher and lowered by 15mm. The design pattern is basically similar to the DS3 standard but the Racing edition does get carbon finished body panels. Other attractions include 18-inch sport wheels, chrome-finished exhaust pipe and LEDs at the front. The particular model showcased in Geneva was done in orange and gray twin-tone with the roof, brake calipers, grill and the rim all done in a carroty tinge. With only 1,000 units of the DS3 Racing to be produced, the commuter shall hit the dealer stores by Q3 2010.

Collecting rare automobiles is always special and here’s another opportunity for those hardcore aficionados who cannot just do without a rare beauty in their garage. The offering comes from Pagani and it is dubbed the Pagani Zonda Tricolore which has specially been created as a tribute to the Italian National Aerobatic Team-Frecce Tricolori. The one-off model marks the 50th anniversary of the Aerobatic Team and Pagani made it to the Geneva event with this rarity. Based on the Pagani Zonda Cinque, the Tricolore differs with a carbon fiber and titanium wired tub and front LEDs which replicate a tailfin of an airplane. The engine too is a Cinque derivative which churns 669hp with 780Nm of torque. The only Tricolore ever manufactured will cost a whopping $1.76 million (US).

Amongst other Honda moniker bearing automobiles in Geneva, a notable concept getting a preview will be the single seater 3R-C prototype which is a battery electric powered machine. Honda aims to make the world have a feel of the future mobility options in urban areas where clean technology will be the key. Riding on the three wheels, the Honda 3R-C Concept comes with a canopy which covers the driver’s seat when the commuter is parked and when the wheels get rolling, the same canopy becomes a shield. Honda has put in plenty of thought by even incorporating a lockable boot area in such a puny commuter thereby making it ideal for future urban needs.