My thoughts on all things motoring, press releases, reviews & techie stuff, from around the world.
Please note that the pictures of vehicles within this blog are used as examples of the specific press releases, on occasions, due to the lack of available official pictures, examples are re-produced.
ANY AND ALL PROFANITIES WILL BE REMOVED AND THE PERSON/S RESPONSIBLE WILL BE BANNED, NO EXCEPTIONS.
Purpose
I will try my best to provide detailed info on various cars and what is like to live with them, I have already produced a few for Jaguar-car-forums, I will do my best to be unbiased, but it will be hard for some cars. I will re-produce press releases and copy from other motoring news.
New speed record for specially prepared Beetle LSR with 550 PS
Topperformance at the annual World of Speed event on the Great Salt Lake in Bonneville, Utah (USA)
A specially-tuned Volkswagen Beetle has set a new speed record at the World of Speed event that has long been a tradition at Lake Bonneville in Utah (USA).
The Beetle LSR (Land Speed Record) with a turbocharged 2.0-litre direct-injection engine (TSI) drove the fastest speed ever documented for a Beetle, reaching 328.195 km/h (205.122 mph) over a distance of one mile.
In order to reach top speeds of well over 300 km/h many aspects of the Beetle LSR were reworked, and the car was modified to conform to regulations for record drives on salt flats. The output of the 2.0-litre TSI was boosted to a peak power of 550 PS (by changes that included a new turbocharger, different pistons, camshafts, connecting rods and cylinder head modifications). The record-setting vehicle also stands out with an impressive torque peak of 571 Newton metres.
To perform well under extreme conditions, the Beetle was equipped with special wheels and tyres for driving on salt, and the body was lowered significantly. A limited-slip differential was also used to improve traction, while a safety package provided for the necessary protection; it consisted of a rollover protection cage, a race seat with five-point harness and a fire extinguishing system. In addition, the record-setting car had two brake parachutes that were used to slow down the Beetle.
The performance was officially recorded at the driving record event sponsored by the Utah Salt Flats Racing Association (USFRA), which is held every year in mid-summer.
Andy Wallace drives new Jaguar XJR and Le Mans-winning XJ-R9 LM at Silverstone
XJR9-LM – one of one million XJs now built – back on track at night for the first time since it won the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1988
Track session presents benefits of new Jaguar XJ LED headlights in day and night driving conditions
Wallace discusses new XJR headlight technology, which offers drivers more confidence, safety and performance at night
New short film captures all the action https://youtu.be/IgMxSkJb058
Legendary racing driver and 24 Hours of Le Mans winner Andy Wallace relived his 1988 victory by taking to the Silverstone circuit to drive the Jaguar XJR9-LM during day and night back-to-back with the new 550PS, 5.0-litre Supercharged V8 Jaguar XJR. Wallace discusses his experiences in the XJR9-LM and the new XJR in an exciting new film available to view and share at https://youtu.be/IgMxSkJb058
Driving at night on the Silverstone circuit gave Wallace the opportunity to test the new LED headlights on the new XJ, which are a first for Jaguar. “Driving at Le Mans back in 1988, it was so hard to see at night,” said Wallace. “We were travelling at around 240mph and it was too fast to see the road ahead. We used the lights more to catch glimpses of landmarks as they whizzed past, so we knew where we were.
“These days, modern road cars have incredible lights. LED technology allows you to see three times the distance we could back then, while active steer and bend also help target the lights to the places you want to see.
“As a driver, whether you’re cruising on the road or pushing for performance on track, that level of vision really helps to give you confidence and that improves safety, performance and precision. I would love to have had the modern lights we have now on the XJR9-LM.”
Ian Hoban, Vehicle Line Director, XJ said: “The XJ is now more dynamic and distinctive than ever, and taking the high-performance XJR to Silverstone gave an excellent demonstration of how the new LED lighting fitted to the car can benefit the driver.
"But the new LED lights are just one of many impressive new features on our flagship saloon. Delivering even greater levels of luxury and performance, it features our new world-class infotainment system and interior materials and finishes that create an even more bespoke feel."
The 2016 XJ has had a thorough exterior design refresh and the full LED headlights with unique double 'J-Blade signature' daytime running lights are one of the key additions. They are unique in the Jaguar range.
The LED headlights provide a colour temperature closer to that of daylight than the Bi-Xenon lamps they replace, improving visibility and driver comfort and also delivering a significant improvement in energy efficiency.
The most advanced lights ever seen on a Jaguar or Land Rover product, they also accentuate the 'quad lamp' design feature that Jaguar sporting sedans have made their own – a feature that also appeared on the XJR9-LM.
JAGUAR F-TYPE PERFORMS MISSION CRITICAL PARACHUTE DEPLOYMENT TEST FOR BRITISH WORLD LAND SPEED RECORD CHALLENGER BLOODHOUND SSC
World land speed record holder Andy Green drives an F-TYPE R Coupé at top speed of 186mph to test Bloodhound SSC’s parachute deployment system
The test continues Jaguar’s technical partnership in the world land speed record attempt, following a high-speed communications test run in South Africa in 2014
Jaguar will be at the heart of Bloodhound SSC providing its 5.0-litre 550PS supercharged V8 engine to power the rocket's oxidiser pump
Jaguar and the world land speed record holder RAF Wing Commander Andy Green performed vital high-speed parachute tests as part of the company’s on-going technical support for this unique engineering adventure: creating a car that can cover a mile in just 3.6 seconds.
The jet and rocket powered car, which aims to surpass the current record of 763.035mph before targeting 1000mph, has multiple braking systems including air-brakes (‘doors’ mounted on the side of the car which open to increase aerodynamic drag) and disc brakes (used when slowing down from 200mph).
In addition, the driver has two back-up parachutes to ensure that the 135,000thp (thrust horse power) vehicle will slow down before the end of its 12-mile track in Hakskeen Pan, South Africa.
Stopping, quickly and controllably, is as important to setting a record as going fast. After the first run Andy must bring Bloodhound SSC to a halt exactly in front of Turnaround Team, who will be waiting to prepare the car for its return run in the opposite direction.
This has to take place within one hour. In the 1997 record attempt, the Thrust SSC team missed a record by less than one minute because the turnaround over-ran.
To test this system ahead of the car’s first run, Jaguar, a technical partner to the project, fitted it to an F-TYPE R Coupé and ran it on a former military runway to over 180mph before firing the parachute.
Green, who was at the wheel for the test, said: "Bloodhound SSC is fitted with both airbrakes and parachutes to provide guaranteed stopping power under all conditions. Each of these systems is safety-critical and each needs to be tested to ensure it will work safely, every time it’s needed.
"Being able to validate the parachute systems in a safe and controlled manner using a high performance Jaguar F-TYPE sports car gives great confidence to both me and Bloodhound’s Engineering Team."
The test took place at the former RAF base in Bentwaters, Suffolk using an F-TYPE R Coupé with a modified rear window and structural supports through which Bloodhound’s unique teardrop shaped parachute cans were mounted directly to the car’s chassis.
Green released the parachute using a cockpit-mounted button, subjecting the F-TYPE to an instantaneous drag force equivalent to one tonne that dramatically slowed the car before Green brought it to a controlled stop.
The stability of the F-TYPE Coupé and its dynamic ability - it will reach 60mph in just 3.9-seconds with a limited top speed of 186mph - enabled the successful completion of a vital test for the Bloodhound SSC team and SES, Bloodhound's parachute specialist, to validate the deployment sequence in a safe controlled manner without using the supersonic car itself.
The test, the second Jaguar has performed for the project following a communications test run with an All-Wheel Drive F-TYPE R Coupé in South Africa last year, also validated the design of the drogue chute, which is a small spring-loaded chute that deploys, inflates and pulls out the main chute.
Peter French, Chief Engineer for Powertrain systems, Jaguar Land Rover, said:
“The5.0-litre 550PS supercharged V8 engine featured in the Jaguar F-TYPE R Coupé will drive Bloodhound SSC’s rocket oxidiser pump – a very exciting proposition for us here at Jaguar as we continue to support this world record attempt.
“The Bloodhound Project is bold, inspirational and an amazing showcase for cutting edge engineering. Andy did an excellent job behind the wheel of the F-TYPE today and we look forward to continuing to support him and the team on the ground when the Bloodhound SSC car rolls out for its first test.”
New flagship Range Rover SVAutobiography debuts at the 2015 New York International Auto Show, delivering enhanced design sophistication and craftsmanship
Most powerful production Range Rover ever with 550PS V8 Supercharged engine specially tuned for SVAutobiography
Distinctive Duo-Tone paint available for the first time, complementing an enhanced interior
SVAutobiography exclusively produced by Jaguar Land Rover Special Vehicle Operations
Powertrain enhancements and new technology features also announced for all Range Rover variants
Land Rover will unveil the Range Rover SVAutobiography at the 2015 New York International Auto Show, adding even more luxury, design sophistication and performance to an enhanced line-up.
Speaking ahead of the exclusive model’s world premiere in New York, Land Rover’s Design Director and Chief Creative Officer Gerry McGovern stated: “With the SVAutobiography we have taken the opportunity to optimise the Range Rover’s luxury execution and precision while delivering beautiful detailing that considerably enhances the customer’s experience of our flagship vehicle.”
Exclusively crafted at Special Vehicle Operations’ (SVO) Technical Centre in the UK, SVAutobiography features unique exterior design enhancements, an exclusive premium leather interior with unique trim finishes and the option of a 550PS 5.0-litre V8 supercharged engine for the first time.
As a result, the SVAutobiography is the most luxurious and powerful series-production Range Rover in the model’s successful 45-year history.
John Edwards, Managing Director of Jaguar Land Rover Special Operations, said: “Range Rover originally defined the luxury SUV segment and the new SVAutobiography, developed by Special Vehicle Operations, takes Range Rover to another level of comfort, craftsmanship and refinement.”
Exclusive design enhancements
Available in standard and long wheelbase derivatives, the 2016 Model Year SVAutobiography takes the flagship Range Rover to even greater heights of design sophistication and levels of luxury execution. New features and exquisite detailing further consolidate its position as the world’s most luxurious and capable vehicle.
For the first time on Range Rover, customers of the 2016 Model Year SVAutobiography are able to specify a unique Duo-tone body colour option. The combination of Santorini Black upper body and nine colour choices for the lower body create true distinction and individualism.
The 2016 Model Year vehicle is distinguished with new Range Rover bonnet lettering and the tailgate is adorned with the new SVAutobiography badging. The unique front grille is finished in distinctive Graphite Atlas and polished chrome, further promoting its visual differentiation.
On the most powerful 550PS supercharged V8 version, quad tailpipes subtly hint at the huge reserves of power available.
World-class luxury interior
Much of the driver’s switchgear including the start-stop surround and rotary controls are machined from solid aluminium with beautiful knurled details, as are the foot pedals.
This detailing continues to both the front and rear centre consoles, with distinctive materials for the cup holder and socket covers. New armrest adjusters not only bring a similar level of machined detail, but also make them even easier to use.
Rear-seat passengers relax in luxurious seating complete with a chiller compartment and powered deployable tables. Solid aluminium coat hooks are incorporated into the rear pillars while, on the floor, aluminium seat rail finishers and deep twist pile mohair carpet mats complete the feeling of sumptuous luxury.
A leather-covered handbook and polished Autobiography key fob with knurled finish add finishing touches.
New to Range Rover for 2016 Model Year, the SVAutobiography offers the option of a sliding loadspace floor. Made from beautifully crafted aluminium and a choice of veneer options, the floor extends rearwards to optimise practicality and ease of use for loading and unloading.
For those customers who enjoy the versatility of Range Rover’s split tailgate, SVO has developed ‘Event Seating.’ Stowed in the luggage compartment, these can be quickly and easily deployed to provide comfortable seating for two adults on the tailgate lower. Hand crafted from beautiful Windsor leather with a highly durable aluminium frame, this option will appeal to those who appreciate the duality of Range Rover’s ‘business and pleasure’ characteristics.
Incredible performance, unrivalled comfort
Replacing the Autobiography Black at the top of the Range Rover line-up, SVAutobiography is available with a sensational 550PS V8 supercharged engine, combining peerless luxury with the most powerful engine in Range Rover’s history.
The all-aluminium 5.0-litre V8 supercharged engine, used to power the high performance Range Rover Sport SVR, has been re-tuned for the SVAutobiography. The potent engine produces an outstanding 550PS and 680Nm of torque, noticeable increases of 40PS and 55Nm respectively, compared with existing V8 supercharged Range Rover derivatives.
With maximum torque available at 3,500rpm and a smooth and sophisticated ZF eight-speed automatic transmission, the SVAutobiography provides a breath-taking blend of performance, in-gear flexibility and refinement, no matter how challenging the terrain.
The 550PS derivative has been engineered and optimised for unparalleled comfort and refinement, and features Brembo front brake callipers in gloss black finish.
Alongside the V8 supercharged engine, SVAutobiography customers can choose from the SDV6 Hybrid and SDV8 powertrain derivatives with increases in efficiency and performance for the 2016 Model Year.
Desirable enhancements across the 2016 Model Year Range Rover line-up
Complementing the introduction of SVAutobiography, a comprehensive suite of revisions underlines Range Rover’s status as the ultimate luxury SUV.
Courtesy of detailed calibration changes, the SDV6 Hybrid benefits from even lower CO2 emissions, and SDV8 derivatives are now offered with advanced stop-start technology, delivering 33.6mpg and CO2 emissions of 219g/km.
Unrivalled off-road capability is a hallmark of the Range Rover line-up but Land Rover has provided even greater confidence for customers by extending the availability of its innovative All-Terrain Progress Control system to include SDV8 derivatives.
Underlining its status as the most luxurious SUV in the world, the 2016 Model Year Range Rover benefits from a host of additional and improved convenience features. These include a new, improved Surround Camera System with crisper graphics for enhanced clarity and an integrated washer jet for the rear camera.
The new Gesture Tailgate standard feature provides hands-free access to the luggage area while Automatic Access Height automatically lowers the vehicle once parked, for improved entry and exit.
Land Rover’s InControl™ technologies continue to develop and now offer even greater smartphone connectivity, user convenience and market availability. InControl™ Remote Premium allows owners to remotely check the fuel level, lock and unlock the doors and flash the lights or sound the horn to help identify the vehicle in crowded car parks, all using a smartphone app.
Priced from £148,900, the Range Rover SVAutobiography will be on sale from summer 2015. The updated Range Rover 2016 Model Year line-up will also be on sale this summer priced from £74,950.
The Jaguar XF range now offers better value for money than ever thanks to a host of enhanced trim packages and the addition of a brand new derivative: the R-Sport Black.
Featuring a comprehensive list of specification enhancements, including 20” Black Kalimnos alloy wheels and 770w Meridian Surround Sound system, the R-Sport Black offers an additional £8,770 worth of value over standard R-Sport models for just a £2,100 increase to its On-the-Road price.
The Jaguar XF is a firm favourite with car buyers, with sales increasing every year since launch. It recorded its best year of sales to date in 2014, and helped to drive Jaguar to its strongest full year performance in nearly a decade.
Jaguar Land Rover Managing Director Jeremy Hicks said: “The XF combines style, luxury, comfort and the kind of sporty drive that only Jaguars deliver. That’s why it has always been popular with customers – and, thanks to the addition of R-Sport Black and our 2015 range enhancements, it now offers even better value for money.”
All models in the XF saloon and Sportbrake range now come with Winter Comfort Pack and Parking Pack as standard. That means all models get heated seats and windscreen plus front parking sensors and a rear camera. In addition, higher specification Portfolio, Diesel S Portfolio, XFR and XFR-S variants now all benefit from Blind Spot Monitor as standard, while most models in the range gain upgraded alloy wheels.
To streamline the range, SE, SE Business and Premium Luxury trim levels have been discontinued, as have the 3.0-litre V6 petrol and 240PS 3.0-litre TDV6 diesel engines. As a result, the range now starts with the generously specified Luxury trim.
Specification changes:
Luxury
As well as getting the Winter Comfort Pack and Parking Pack as standard, all Luxury models now also come with Gloss Dark Oak veneer. 200PS models also get upgraded from 17” Ursa alloys to new 18” Manra wheels – although cars with the 163PS engine retain the smaller wheels to keep their CO2 emissions to 129g/km. The extra equipment represents an additional £1,870 worth of value, with just a small On-the-Road price increase of £600 on 200PS models and £500 on 163PS variants.
R-Sport
All R-Sport models now come with Winter Comfort Pack, Parking Pack and the 380w Meridian Audio system as standard. All versions also now come with the Gloss Dark Oak veneer. 200PS models get 19” Grey Aquila wheels instead of the 18” Lyra alloys. In total, R-Sport variants now benefit from £2,460 worth of extra value for a small On-the-Road price increase of £800 on the 200PS models and £700 on 163PS cars.
New R-Sport Black
Available exclusively with the 2.2-litre turbocharged 200PS diesel engine, the new R-Sport Black derivative features a range of equipment and aesthetic enhancements as standard. These include: 20” Black Kalimnos alloy wheels, Black Pack, 770w Meridian Surround Sound system, full bond-grain leather upholstery and 18way Sports seats with memory function.
R-Sport Black models come with a choice of five no-cost paint colours: Kyanite Blue, Italian Racing Red, Glacier White, Ultimate Black and Stratus Grey - with the Kyanite Blue option limited to just 100 units. In total, these models benefit from £8,770 worth of added upgrades over R-Sport models for a price premium of just £2,100.
Portfolio
The price for luxurious Portfolio spec cars has been reduced by £3,500. Despite this, it now benefits from the addition of the Parking Pack, Blind Spot Monitor and 19” Artura wheels as standard equipment, while 20” Hydra and Silver Draco alloys have been added to the option list. Suedecloth headliner and metallic paint are no longer standard, plus Portfolio models now come with the 380w Meridian system.
Diesel S Portfolio
Diesel S Portfolio models retain Suedecloth headliner, metallic paint and the 770w Meridian Surround Sound system but now also benefit from the full Parking Aid Pack and Blind Spot Monitor as standard equipment. That’s an additional £960 worth of value with no On-the-Road price increase.
XFR
The ferocious XFR gets a host of new spec as standard, including: stainless steel pedals, Speed Pack, Rear View Camera, Blind Spot Monitor and Red Brake Calipers. The extra equipment represents £3,760 worth of added value with no On-the-Road price increase.
XFR-S
The range-topping XFR-S now comes as standard with Rear View Camera and Blind Spot Monitor. The On-the-Road price hasn’t increased but the extra equipment is worth £860.
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