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.
Showing posts with label Auto Start-Stop. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Auto Start-Stop. Show all posts

Monday, 20 February 2017

All-new Ford Expedition – the smartest, most capable and most adaptable Expedition ever

  • All-new Ford Expedition – the smartest, most capable and most adaptable Expedition ever – provides families generous space, connectivity and smart new technology for their next adventures
  • Flexible seating and storage solutions include second-row tip-and-slide seating that provides easy access to the third row even when child seats are installed; new, more powerful 3.5-liter EcoBoost® engine and class-exclusive 10-speed automatic transmission are expected to deliver the best towing capability of any full-size SUV
  • Ford introduces the all-new Expedition today with an assist from the Dallas Cowboys in Texas – America’s best-selling full-size SUV market; Dallas firefighters join Ford to surprise a local first responder with an all-new Expedition
For today’s active families, Ford introduces the all-new Expedition – the smartest, most capable and most adaptable Expedition ever – with technology to keep every passenger connected, more power for drivers, and more expected towing capability than any other full-size SUV.
The all-new Expedition makes its debut today with an assist from the Dallas Cowboys in Texas – America’s best-selling full-size SUV market.
“When Expedition was introduced 20 years ago, it set the standard for active families who simply needed a big and strong SUV to take them places,” said Joe Hinrichs, Ford president of The Americas. “Today’s families want even more smart technology to help them cover more ground safely, more efficiently and more comfortably – all while staying connected to friends and family.”
Smartest Expedition ever
The all-new Expedition offers more driver-assist technology than any other full-size SUV.
In addition, an all-new high-strength, aluminum-alloy body and redesigned high-strength steel frame form the foundation for Expedition’s rugged off-road and strong towing capabilities. Thanks to the use of advanced materials, the all-new Expedition saves up to 300 pounds, and the team reinvested that weight savings everywhere it counts to give customers more technology and convenience features than ever before.
More than 40 features and driver-assist technologies new to Expedition help make the journey as enjoyable as the destination.
These include class-exclusive enhanced active park assist to easily pull in and out of parking spots, as well as available 360-degree camera technology to help customers see more around their Expedition for easier parking.
On the road, Expedition’s lane-keeping aid is designed to reduce unintentional drifting of the vehicle outside its intended lane, while adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go allows drivers to set a cruising speed, using radar and camera technology to monitor traffic to maintain a set distance between vehicles.
Its collision avoidance detection system helps drivers avoid other vehicles or pedestrians, while available Blind Spot Information System helps monitor blind spots outside the driver’s immediate view.
In addition, Expedition offers available new connectivity technologies and convenience features, including:
  • Wireless charging; Expedition is Ford’s first vehicle to feature this system, which allows customers to place compatible mobile devices on an integrated charging pad conveniently located in the front center console
  • Wi-Fi hotspot supports as many as 10 devices at once, up to 50 feet away from the vehicle
  • Dual-headrest rear seat entertainment system provides a next-generation video experience that allows passengers to view their home cable programming on either of two video screens or hand-held devices
  • SYNC® 3, with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability, allows drivers to stay connected on the move
  • SYNC Connect lets owners connect with the vehicle remotely using FordPass® to start, lock, unlock and locate their vehicle from anywhere, while also allowing access to important vehicle diagnostic information
  • Power for passengers in every row, with four 12-volt power points, six USB chargers and a 110-volt power outlet that lets passengers stay charged and connected
  • 12-speaker B&O PLAY premium audio system perfected by acoustic engineers for a sound experience even audiophiles will appreciate
  • Advanced cargo manager with an adjustable shelf behind the third row lets owners create a storage space customized to whatever they’re hauling; even when parked on a hill, cargo won’t roll out the back of Expedition when the liftgate is opened
  • Panoramic Vista Roof spans two rows, a feature not offered by any competitor
Most capable Expedition ever
Powered by a 3.5-liter EcoBoost® engine with standard Auto Start-Stop plus a class-exclusive new 10-speed automatic transmission, the all-new Expedition is the most powerful Expedition ever. A newly available electronic limited-slip differential on models with Intelligent 4WD enables improved off-road capability by sending power where it’s needed.
More than 50 percent of Expedition customers value towing, and 15 percent tow weekly or monthly. That’s why the all-new Expedition offers Pro Trailer Backup Assist, which makes backing up a trailer as easy as turning a knob.
Plus, an available hands-free liftgate makes loading cargo easy.
Most adaptable Expedition ever
The all-new Expedition has a roomy, flexible interior. With seating for up to eight people and their gear, this full-size SUV makes modern family adventures more comfortable during short and long trips alike.
The all-new Expedition is the first full-size utility to feature a sliding second-row seat with tip-and-slide functionality, providing easy access to the third row without the need to first remove a child safety seat. Once in the third row, even adults will appreciate more legroom and reclining seats.
Expedition’s second- and third-row seats can be quickly folded flat with the push of a button to open up a cargo area wide enough to handle 4x8-foot sheets of plywood and other gear, depending on cargo weight and load distribution, even with the liftgate closed.
Even the drive is more adaptable, with Expedition’s all-new Terrain Management System that lets customers choose between drive modes for optimal vehicle handling in different conditions. This includes normal for around-town driving, sport for more spirited trips, tow/haul for improved towing and hauling performance, eco for enhanced fuel economy, grass/gravel/snow for loose terrain, sand for low traction situations, and mud/rut for uneven surfaces.
Revealed today
The all-new Ford Expedition is being unveiled at Ford Center at The Star with Stephen Jones, Dallas Cowboys chief operating officer and executive vice president.
Last fall, Ford and the Dallas Cowboys surprised Dallas firefighters of Station 43 by refurbishing their station. Ford is now working with both the Cowboys and the fire station to surprise a local first responder with an all-new Expedition to continue his unstoppable level of service and enable new family adventures.
The all-new Expedition is available in XLT, Limited and Platinum series. In addition, an XL version is available for fleet customers, from law enforcement to emergency services. To help customers choose the right amount of interior room for their families, all series are available on the extended-length Expedition MAX.
The all-new Expedition is part of Ford’s plan to grow its SUV leadership with five new vehicles for North America in the next four years.
The all-new Expedition arrives this fall. It is built at Kentucky Truck Plant in Louisville, Kentucky. 

Tuesday, 10 May 2016

USA - 2017 Ford F-150 improves efficiency, capability & performance with debut of the 2nd-generation 3.5-liter EcoBoost.

  • Continuously improving for customers, 2017 Ford F-150 doubles down on efficiency, capability and performance with debut of the second-generation 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine and all-new Ford-built 10-speed automatic transmission 
  • New 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine provides 30 lb.-ft. more peak torque compared with the first-generation EcoBoost engine, up to a best-in-class 450 lb.-ft. for a V6, beating gasoline- and diesel-powered competitors
  • The first volume-production 10-speed automatic transmission available to consumers from any automaker will deliver improved acceleration and performance
Ford, America’s truck leader, continues its relentless pace of innovation, delivering more torque and better acceleration to 2017 F-150 customers with the all-new 3.5-liter EcoBoost®engine and 10-speed transmission.

The new second-generation 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine will provide 30 lb.-ft. more peak torque compared with the first-generation 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine, up to a best-in-class 450 lb.-ft. for a V6. F-150 remains the only truck in its segment to offer a twin-turbo V6 gasoline engine.
The all-new Ford-built transmission – the first volume-production 10-speed automatic transmission available to consumers from any automaker – will deliver improved acceleration and performance compared with previous six-speed automatic transmissions.
“The Ford truck team lives to serve our hardworking truck customers,” said Raj Nair, Ford executive vice president, Product Development, and chief technical officer. “The powertrain is the heart of every F-150, and together our all-new 3.5-liter EcoBoost and 10-speed transmission will give our customers better power, efficiency and confidence.”
More than 20 patents are approved or pending for the innovative powertrain combination.
Second-generation 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine


The new 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine builds on the success of the 2.7-liter EcoBoost engine and first-generation 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine available for the 2016 F-150. Nearly 1 million F-150 EcoBoost engines have been sold to date, with the 2.7-liter and first-generation 3.5-liter accounting for approximately 60 percent of F-150 sales.

Ford engineers designed the new 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine to provide best-in-class torque for a V6 engine, beating gasoline- and diesel-powered competitors. The new engine provides better low-end and peak engine performance, ideal for hauling heavy payloads and towing heavy trailers.
The engine features an all-new, Ford-first dual-direct and port fuel-injection system. Two injectors per cylinder – one mounted in the intake port where air enters the cylinder and one positioned inside the cylinder – work together to improve power output, efficiency, and emissions.
All-new turbochargers deliver more boost thanks to improved twin turbos and a lighter turbine wheel. The new turbos work seamlessly with Ford-first electrically activated wastegates, enhancing operating efficiency. Light-weighting the turbine wheel – by making it out of high-temperature super alloy Mar-M-247 developed by the aerospace industry – improves responsiveness.
Ford’s commitment to continuous light-weighting to improve performance also is evident in the hollow camshafts in the all-new roller-finger follower valvetrain that help save up to 4 pounds of weight. The valvetrain also features more durable intake and exhaust valves, and hydraulic valve-lash adjusters that optimize engine durability over the life of the truck.
The new 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine provides Auto Start-Stop as a standard feature, helping customers save fuel, though actual fuel savings vary depending on driving patterns. The technology also contributes to a reduction in CO2 emissions due to decreased idle times. Auto Start-Stop is specially tuned for truck customers, shutting off the engine when the vehicle is at a stop – except when towing or in four-wheel-drive mode.
All-new 10-speed transmission


The new 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine will be paired with an all-new 10-speed transmission for the 2017 F-150.

The transmission delivers improved acceleration and performance compared with previous six-speed automatic transmissions, thanks to optimized wide-span gear spacing, coupled with drag-reduction actions. Three overdrive gears and a wider ratio span enable lower-numerical rear-axle ratios to help improve fuel efficiency at highway speeds, while maintaining best-in-class towing.
Weight savings play a key role in improved shifting performance. The 10-speed transmission uses advanced materials and alloys to save weight, and it is the first Ford gearbox that does not use cast-iron components.
An integrated torque converter/turbine clutch also helps shave more than 2 pounds of weight, while also reducing the packaging footprint.
Smarter shift logic helps 2017 F-150 customers tow with improved confidence using tow/haul mode. All-new real-time-adaptive shift-scheduling algorithms monitor more than a dozen powertrain- and driver-control signals to ensure the right gear at the right time for an engaging driving experience, including in sport mode.
An integrated electric pump works with the standard Auto Start-Stop system for seamless restarts and improved driving efficiency.
Manufacturing investment


Ford announced earlier this year that it will invest $145 million to upgrade its Cleveland Engine Plant – creating or retaining 150 jobs to support production of the all-new second-generation 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine for the 2017 Ford F-150 lineup.

An additional $1.4 billion is being invested at Ford’s Livonia Transmission Plant to create or retain 500 hourly jobs to build the 10-speed transmission.
Both investments are part of the company’s commitment to invest $9 billion and create or retain 8,500 hourly jobs in its U.S. facilities during the next four years. In the past five years, Ford has invested $12 billion in its U.S. plants and created nearly 28,000 total U.S. jobs.
The 2017 Ford F-150 goes on sale this fall.

Friday, 19 February 2016

New flagship model for the BMW 7 Series range and the Debut of the first M Performance TwinPower Turbo V12 engine

  • New flagship model for the BMW 7 Series range.
  • Debut of the first M Performance TwinPower Turbo V12 engine.
  • Headline outputs of 600hp and 800Nm of torque ensure spectacular performance: zero to 62mph in 3.9 seconds and a (limited) top speed of 155mph.
  • Rear bias for xDrive all-wheel drive system, and model-specific suspension tuning.
  • Unique exterior and interior design with M Performance elements incorporated.
The recently launched BMW 7 Series now has a prestigious flagship at the head of the range: the new M760Li xDrive V12 marks the debut of a very special V12 engine to provide stunning performance with exemplary refinement.
With TwinPower Turbo technology incorporated for the first time, this new M Performance engine produces 600hp and 800Nm of torque. It’s harnessed by a highly sophisticated chassis specifically tailored to the model, and deployed to the road via BMW’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system with a rear-bias for more dynamic handling.
The new model is instantly recognisable thanks to the M Performance body enhancements, specific trim details and unique 20-inch alloy wheels. An active quad exit exhaust system ensures that, when desired, the presence of the new M760Li xDrive V12 can be heard as well as seen.

Inside, the M760Li xDrive V12 retains the luxurious ambience of the new BMW 7 Series, but adds sporting elements such as the M Performance steering wheel and illuminated V12 logo and exclusive M pedals. Naturally, the specification of the car is extremely high, with a long list of comfort, convenience, safety and dynamic driving features.
ModelPower
Hp
Torque
Nm
0 – 62mph
Seconds
Top Speed
Mph
Combined
Mpg
CO2
Emissions g/km
M760Li xDrive V12
600

800
3.9155*22.4294
*Electronically limited 
Powertrain: The allure of a V12
The 12-cylinder engine layout traditionally enjoys an exclusive status above all others, and in the new M760Li xDrive V12 provides a superb blend of performance and refinement. 
The 6,592cc M Performance TwinPower Turbo 12-cylinder engine develops an output of 600hp at 5,500rpm and generates its peak torque of 800Nm from as low down as 1,500rpm.
This enables the car to accelerate from zero to 62mph in just 3.9 seconds and on to a governed top speed of 155mph. It now also links up with the Auto Start-Stop function, which is just one measure that contributes to an impressive official combined fuel consumption figure of 22.4mpg and CO2 emissions of 294g/km.
For the construction of the all-aluminium block, BMW engineers focused on maximising rigidity while also minimising weight. Using a closed-deck structure, combined with bolts holding the cylinder head down on the floor plate of the crankcase, has ensured the stability of the cylinder liners. 
Double bolts on the main bearings, with an additional connection to the side panels through threaded support bushes and bolts, reduce the influence of lateral forces from the crankdrive on the crankcase. 
Further components that serve to reduce vibrations and noise to an absolute minimum are iron-coated aluminium pistons; forged connecting rods assembled using the cracking process, and likewise, a forged crankshaft.
Two key features have elevated the performance and efficiency of the new V12 onto an even higher level: M Performance TwinPower Turbo technology and High Precision Injection. Together they enable sharp responses to even the slightest movement of the accelerator, a linear torque curve and exceptionally low fuel consumption and CO2 emissions for a car in this performance class.
Under an engine cover bearing “M Performance” lettering are two mono-scroll turbochargers, located – thanks to the small 60-degree cylinder angle – in a compact arrangement on the outside of the two rows of cylinders. Each turbocharger supplies six cylinders with compressed air. 
Their positioning allows for short, straight and therefore flow-efficient pipe connections between the exhaust system and the turbochargers. A sophisticated indirect intercooler, minimising the overall volume of air required and reducing lag, cools the air from each turbocharger. An additional water pump feeds the separate coolant circuit required for this purpose, whose air-to-water heat exchangers are positioned directly on the intake manifold.
The engine’s catalytic converters are equipped with advanced exhaust gas sensors and quickly reach their optimum operating temperature thanks to their positioning close to the engine, assisting the M760Li xDrive V12 in meeting the EU6c exhaust standard. In order to reduce backpressure, the M sports exhaust system features mostly straight pipes of the largest possible diameter. The evolution of the rear silencers and flap activation system allows everything from maximum refinement to a full-bodied 12-cylinder soundtrack.
The adoption of high precision fuel injection optimises the combustion process. Injectors positioned centrally in the cylinder head measure out the fuel precisely and spray it into the combustion chambers in finely atomised form and at up to 200-bar of pressure. The mixture cooling brought about by the directly injected fuel also allows a higher compression ratio than that achieved by a turbocharged engine with manifold injection.
The M Performance 12-cylinder engine also features, in customary BMW fashion, Double-VANOS continuously variable camshaft timing. This allows the engine to run under part loads with a high level of residual gas and reduced throttle losses, maximising fuel efficiency. Double-VANOS also contributes to the engine’s rapid responses.
Another optimisation with the new engine is the oil supply system. Its volume flow-controlled pump operates only when required and is therefore extremely efficient.
An eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission is fitted as standard in the new M760Li xDrive V12. M Performance-specific tuning of the shift programs delivers sportier gear changes and more instantaneous downshifts throughout the rev range, Launch Control function is also included. The transmission can also be operated via the gearshift paddles on the steering wheel: in manual mode the transmission holds the selected gear even when the engine hits the rev limiter. At the same time, its compact construction, low weight, optimised efficiency and flawless interaction with the Auto Start-Stop function allows it to play a significant role in reducing fuel consumptions and emissions.
Driving dynamics: performance and ride comfort in harmony
The new BMW 7 Series already benefits from intelligent lightweight design. The use of rigid yet lightweight carbon fibre elements in the passenger cell’s Carbon Core structure, gives the car a low centre of gravity that forms an ideal basis for a car that boasts fine dynamics and ride comfort.
The innovative Executive Drive Pro suspension system, first introduced in the recently launched new BMW 7 Series model range, fully enables this duality of purpose. Executive Drive Pro is an active suspension control system, which links the air suspension and the Dynamic Damper Control system to deliver exceptional spring and damper comfort. It includes the updated version of the Dynamic Drive system, which reduces roll at the front and rear axles. The result is sporty driving characteristics coupled with comfortable suspension, specifically tuned for the M760Li xDrive V12’s more dynamic character.  In addition to this the Executive Drive Pro actively looks at the road service ahead to precondition the suspension settings accordingly.
The new car is fitted as standard with exclusive double-spoke 20-inch M light-alloy wheels in a Cerium Grey metallic matt finish and Michelin Pilot Super Sport tyres (front: 245/40 R20, rear: 275/35 R20).
Integral Active Steering is also standard, the previous planetary gearset used at the front axle has been replaced by a variable steering rack ratio that employs a more direct front axle steering ratio and turns the rear wheels in either the opposing or the same direction when steering, depending on the specific driving situation.
All the driving modes of the Driving Experience Control switch have been comprehensively retuned to suit the dynamic character of the new M760Li xDrive V12. A new Adaptive mode includes an anticipatory chassis control function and automatic selection of the driving mode best suited to the situation at hand. The advance information for regulating the combination of chassis systems is gleaned from the driving style analysis readings, data from the navigation system and a stereo camera.
BMW’s permanent all-wheel-drive system, xDrive, is also an integral part of the new model. This intelligent system is able to distribute torque between the front and rear axle without restriction, and for this variant has been given a rear-wheel bias in-line with its M Performance character. The new car also features the expanded Driving Assistant Plus system optionally available on the new BMW 7 Series model range.
Design: BMW M Performance variant makes a clear visual statement
The M aerodynamic package fitted as standard to the M760Li xDrive V12 imbues the car with even greater visual presence. The new front apron features two large air intakes with highlights in Cerium Grey. The same colour appears along the sides of the car with trim elements on the lower edge of the doors, the air breathers and the door handle trim. Exclusive mirror caps, “V12” badges on the C-pillars and the M logo on the front wings – once more in Cerium Grey – finish the look. At the rear, the sporting design of the rear apron with its black central area highlights the M sports exhaust system’s Cerium Grey twin tailpipe embellishers. An optional M rear spoiler optimises the flow of air.
Inside, carefully selected details emphasise the car’s sporting character: gleaming door sill plates in Fine Brushed Aluminium with an illuminated V12 logo; an M leather steering wheel featuring an M logo on the centre spoke and gearshift paddles on the reverse; multifunction buttons on the steering wheel spokes and the spoke inlays finished in Pearl Gloss Chrome. The instrument cluster contains a special speedometer that now extends as far as 205mph, though in the UK the car is electronically-limited to 155mph. This combined with other elements such as the M pedals reinforces the driver focus of the interior.
Equipment: the extensive standard specification of a true flagship
As expected, the BMW M760Li x Drive V12 features an extremely extensive list of equipment as standard. In addition to the hardware detailed in the sections above, there are BMW Icon adaptive LED headlights with anti-dazzle High-beam assistant, the keyless Comfort Access system and Dynamic safety to optimise occupant protection. Electrically adjustable Comfort seats at the front and rear, BMW Gesture control,  sunblinds for the rear windscreen and rear windows, Exclusive Merino leather trim with extended features, an Alcantara headliner, Fineline black fine wood trim with high-gloss metal effect are also included to name but a few key highlights.
The full array of
BMW ConnectedDrive products and services are also fitted, including the latest-generation BMW Professional Multimedia system with high-resolution colour touchscreen and iDrive Touch Controller. BMW ConnectedDrive Services, meanwhile, enable access to the intelligent link-up of driver, vehicle and outside world. Thus, the BMW M760Li xDrive V12 can be configured and equipped to individual tastes. To this end, customers can choose from virtually the full range of optional equipment available for the new BMW 7 Series.
The V12 Excellence Design package: alternative variant emphasises innovative luxury
The V12 Excellence Design package shifts the focus away from the dynamic appearance of its M Performance sibling to emphasise the comfort-related attributes of the BMW M760Li xDrive V12.
Externally, the V12 Excellence Design package trades the M aerodynamic package for visual cues from the Pure Excellence exterior design package. These include 20-inch BMW Individual light-alloy wheels in W-spoke 646 design, high-gloss polished, with mixed-size tyres (front: 245/40 R20, rear: 275/35 R20) and brake calipers in high-gloss Black. The front end has a chrome bar extending across the full width of the car in the upper section of the air intake grille, while the kidney grille bars are in Silver with chrome fronts, and their surrounds likewise sport bright chrome. LED fog lamps return to the front apron.
On the car’s flanks, a bright chrome finish adorns the window frames, the air breathers with door trim element and the V12 lettering on the C-pillars. The M logos rearwards of the wheel arches on the front side panels are deleted. 
Further back, the xDrive badge sits on the left-hand side of the boot lid above the chrome boot lid handle strip, with V12 lettering replacing the model designation on the right-hand side. The comfort-oriented exhaust system has a refined and understated note. Its two chromed, rectangular tailpipe embellishers are now framed in the rear apron by an additional chrome surround.
The Pure Excellence interior design package shifts the design focus within the cabin. For example, the Alcantara headliner, door sill plates in Fine Brushed Aluminium with illuminated V12 badge, precise decorative stitching in the lower section of the instrument panel, fine wood inlays for the seat belt outlet covers, armrest and rear roof grab handles, plus deep-pile floor mats for the rear compartment all emphasis further the luxurious nature of the car. 
The leather steering wheel now features wood elements, and when the driver fires up the engine a V12 emblem lights up in the centre of the instrument cluster – whose speedometer extends as far as 160mph.
The BMW M760Li xDrive V12 goes on sale towards the end of 2016 with prices being announced nearer the time.