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 italia. Show all posts
Showing posts with label italia. Show all posts

Wednesday, 11 November 2015

ITALY - The premium family car sector gets another addition with the All-New Infiniti Q30, a car to shake up the rest.

  • Q30 the compact premium of fundamental importance in the growth plans of Infiniti
  • The Infiniti model in the premium compact class, to win a new group of buyers
  • Strongly characterized by the personal and exclusive language of design that sets it apart in the premium segment
  • A holistic approach that is reflected in the dynamic behavior and driving pleasure
  • Perfect balance between ride comfort and handling
  • The design of the seats and the suspension gives the impression of control, while minimizing fatigue
  • 'Q30 and Q30' Sport 'with their respective peculiarities of travel: different characters to interpret contemporary tastes
  • Aboard tranquility unrivaled
The Infiniti Q30 is the new compact car in the premium segment for the modern automotive customer. The Q30, Infiniti door for the first time to go global in the growth segment of premium compact models. The Q30 will play an important role in helping the company to achieve its growth plans globally.

Designed for a new generation of buyers who do not want to be "identified" for the choice of his car, the Q30 is hardly conventional with its strong character and forms strongly characterized.
Faithful to the message sent by the prototype presented in 2013, mixing the style of a coupe with a session high, without compromising on comfort. It is a car that defies the rules within the premium segment, and exceeds the conventions in the compact class.
Q30 emphasizes attention to the development of a product developed around the driver. The development team of Q30 has adopted a holistic approach to its design, presenting a car that offers protection for you, exceptional handling and a high level of comfort and finish. 
Nothing in Q30 is designed in isolation, therefore the 'driving experience is full and rewarding. It feels comfortable and "ready to go anywhere" because of its size, its dynamic confident, exceptional handling and a range of intuitive technologies. Compared to conventional premium compact models it gives a greater sense of safety due to high seating position.
In addition to the entry-level version of Q30, there are three other versions that embody the spirit Infiniti: "Premium", "Premium Tech" or "Sport".
Q30 and Q30 Sport, two interpretations that reflect in their name its own personality both from the point of view of the details of style both for its size.
In particular, the model Q30 Sport (1475 mm) is less than 15 millimeters compared to Q30. Even driving performance are differentiated due to different settings of the suspension as well the characteristics of ride and handling - to give buyers a choice that is specific to their needs and preferences.
"Q30 is still sculpted, highly distinctive as it was the prototype, deliberately unconventional and with an asymmetrical design of the interior. The car has been designed in accordance with the highest standards to provide a driving experience unmistakably Infiniti. Q30 will allow Infiniti to reach his first goal of being one of the biggest producers of premium cars in the world. "

Monday, 9 November 2015

ITALY - Porsche upgrades the Macan Crossover with more tech and more luxury.

Translated by Google - Apologies for an errors caused.

Porsche further enhances the Macan. With the world debut of the Macan GTS (1) at the Tokyo Motor Show in 2015, the new model year of the compact SUV will offer, immediately, comfort and infotainment systems optimized: the new Porsche Communication Management (PCM), which has just he celebrated his debut in the 911 (2), is now also used in the Macan. 

Features: real-time traffic information (optional) simplified controls and an integrated WLAN hotspot.



In addition, all models of the sporty SUV, Porsche offers on demand new full-LED headlights that provide greater comfort and functionality and sportiness even higher. 


An improved system of steering adjustment ensures a more direct driving pleasure and better contact with the road. Exclusively for the Macan Turbo (3) are optionally available packages for the interior and the exterior enlarged. Now, customers can further customize the configuration of their car. 

The latest PCM: simple controls and better connectivity 



Heart of the infotainment system, is standard on all models Macan, is the new touch screen 7-inch high-resolution The surface of use perfected allows for intuitive operation similar to that of smartphones. If the sensor recognizes the proximity to enter a command, the screen overlay the main contents of the menu, the driver can manage through finger touches on several points of the multitouch screen. Interfaces Bluetooth, USB and SD cards allow for the integration of smart phones and storage media with PCM.  



A novelty in infotainment series of compact SUVs: the customer can choose, depending on the needs and preferences, in three different options for connecting the Macan with the outside world: the "Connect module" includes a compartment for smartphones integrated into the center console armrest that can save battery power and ensure an improved reception of the phone. Also new is the ability to connect the iPhone with PCM for using AppleCar Play®, including voice recognition Siri®. The "Connect module" also includes the familiar Porsche Car Connect. 


In addition, it is available the "navigation module": the new navigation system convinces for the representation of the high-resolution maps, provided for the first time, depending on the area, even in 3D. And you can easily start the path management by voice command. 

For the use of increasingly complex offers connectivity, Porsche developed the "module Connect Plus": real-time traffic information available online and the representation of Google services, ensure the Macan to reach the first destination, and not only thanks to its driving dynamics. 


The use of PCM as a WLAN hotspot and even more extensive integration of smartphones in the car do not leave nothing to be desired in terms of networking. The new addition to Porsche Connect App that allows, among other things, to transfer items smartphone directly to PCM to start a management way. 

LED main headlights in dynamic design 



For the first time, in combination with Porsche Dynamic Light System Plus (PDLS Plus) option, the Macan has full-LED headlights. The new headlights convince tone similar to that of daylight and the depth of illumination optimized compared with a low power consumption.  

The daytime running lights are characterized by lighting design with four points, the Porsche family. The dynamic design of the lights is further underlined by the inner headlight in dark color and the four diodes LED in silver anodized. Set in a chrome frame profile marked, the main projector in black acquires a particular three-dimensional configuration. Instead of the bi-xenon headlights with projection lenses round and additional lights, the LED version has a projection module placed in the center for the low beam and high beam. Additional light modules provide other features such as the cornering light system and assistance at intersections.  

The PDLS Plus includes popular features of "dynamic curve light" and "light roads", as well as a specific mode for journeys and the motorway 'illumination of the road in case of poor visibility. The high beam dynamics, based on camera, allow a more relaxed thanks to the automatic adjustment of the headlight beam when driving at night. Based on the navigation data provided by PCM, the care system at intersections activates a light module additional near a junction for optimum illumination of the intersection.  

For a particularly sporty look: packages Macan Turbo  Inspired by GTS models, Porsche offers, for the first time for the Turbo Macan, additional packages for the interior and to the exterior. Several design elements into the body give the powerful SUV to sporty handling: 21-inch 911 Turbo design shine in the exclusive two-tone combination. The door mirrors Sport Design, markedly dynamic, and hubcaps with color Porsche Crest add aesthetic accents. 



Elements in contrasting colors in glossy black adorn the vents and sideblade, as well as the side window surrounds and the lower part of the rear bumper. In chromatic harmony and perfectly matched to the molding rear Sport Design, the sports exhaust system terminal displays in black. The rear lights dark complete the custom look of the flagship model.  

Traditionally, GTS models offer drivers sporting visual and tactile sensations particularly valuable in the cockpit, distinguished elements in Alcantara and seams in contrasting colors: Alcantara, a fabric used in sports competitions, plays the seat center, the armrest of the center console and door trim. Decorative stitching in silver rhodium or garnet red in the instrument cluster, on the seats and the door trim generate additional color accents. Turbo lettering in contrasting color on the headrests and door sill guards in carbon, illuminated, announce between journeys power from 400 hp top model.  

Both packages can be ordered separately, but each combines equally sporty and exclusivity. For all versions the Macan also features new exterior colors. Decorative stitching in contrasting colors and seat center in different color still leave more room for customization. In addition, the steering wheel in Alcantara, available as an option, heated, offers more comfort in cold weather and a secure grip in the case of sports driving. The new models will be available at retailers Macan Porsche since the beginning of 2016, but as of now be ordered in Italy at the following prices (including VAT):  

• Macan S 64,279 Euro 
• Macan S Diesel 63,669 Euro 
• Macan GTS 76845 € 
• Macan Turbo 87,413 Euro 

(1) Macan GTS *: Consumption (l / 100 km) 11.8 to 11.4 urban, suburban 7.8 to 7.4, 9.2 to 8.8 combined; CO2 emissions from 215 to 207 g / km; Efficiency class (Germany): E-D. 
(2) Series 911: Consumption combined from 12.7 to 7.4 l / 100 km; CO2 emissions: 296 to 169 g / km, Efficiency class (Germany): G-D. 
(3) Macan Turbo *: Consumption (l / 100 km) 11.8 to 11.5 urban, suburban 7,8 7.5, combined 9.2 to 8.9; CO2 emissions from 216 to 208 g / km; Efficiency class (Germany): E-D. 
(4) Series Macan: Consumption combined: 9.2 to 6.1 l / 100 km; CO2 emissions from 216 to 159 g / km;Efficiency class (Germany): E-B. 
*) Range of values ​​depending on the type of tires fitted. 

Tuesday, 21 July 2015

USA RECALL - FERRARI - over 800 cars over Eight models, all for airbag issues, from Takata Corp, AGAIN.

Luxury supercar maker Ferrari is recalling 814 vehicles, costing from $200,000 to more than $1.4 million, to fix driver-side airbags that were installed at an improper angle.
The airbags were discovered when Ferrari was doing tests on a 458 Italia’s steering column, according to documents posted to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration website today. The airbag deployed in a rotated orientation, Ferrari said, which could cause injury.


The Italian manufacturer, owned by Fiat Chrysler Automobiles NV, found that the leather skin covering the airbag module had been improperly glued and the air-bag cushions had been installed at the wrong angle. The recall covers eight different models made from December to April this year.
Although the airbags were produced by troubled Japanese supplier Takata Corp., the defect isn’t the same as in the Takata airbags that have exploded and sent shrapnel toward drivers and passengers. That recall affects more than 34 million inflators worldwide and has been linked to at least eight fatalities.
No fatalities or injuries were reported in the documents Ferrari filed with the U.S. regulator. As required by law, Ferrari will replace the driver-side air bags free of charge. The recall is expected to begin July 30.

The recall covers the 458 Italia, the 458 Spider, the 458 Speciale, the 458 Speciale A, the California T, the FF, the F12 Berlinetta and the LaFerrari. All the affected cars were manufactured between Dec. 19, 2014, and April 29, 2015.
Suggested list prices range from $202,000 for the California T to $1.42 million for the LeFerrari, according to Car and Driver website.
Fiat Chrysler CEO Sergio Marchionne said July 10 that an initial public offering for a spun off Ferrari SpA was “days away.”
Automotive News

Wednesday, 10 December 2014

Ferrari considering moving its Fiscal residance outside of Italy as it prepares for sell off

Ferrari is considering moving its fiscal residence outside Italy to save on corporate taxes as the supercar maker prepares for its spinoff from Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, people familiar with the matter said.
The carmaker, which uses the colors of the Italian flag in its logo, may follow in the footsteps of Fiat Chrysler, which is registered in the Netherlands, listed on the New York Stock Exchange and based in London for tax reasons, said the people, who asked not to be identified because the discussions are private.

Other options including keeping its Italian residence are still on the table, and a shift in its fiscal residency wouldn't affect its manufacturing and engineering operations in Maranello, about 190 kilometers (118 miles) south of Milan, the people said. A final decision will be made in coming months, the people added.
Fiat Chrysler declined to comment.
Ferrari shifting its corporate headquarters outside Italy would represent a symbolic blow for the country, which is struggling to end a cycle of recessions. Prime Minister Matteo Renzi is attempting to push through labor and tax reforms to make the Italian economy more competitive. Those efforts have already come too late for Fiat Chrysler and CNH Industrial NV, the truck and tractor maker spun off from Fiat in 2011. Both companies have already moved their headquarters to the UK from Italy.
Cutting debt
The move to spin off Ferrari is part of Fiat Chrysler's efforts to raise about $5 billion to cut debt. CEO Sergio Marchionne is meeting investors in the U.S. this week as Fiat Chrysler prepares to sell at least 87 million shares and a $2.5 billion mandatory convertible bond. The financing, which is backed by distributing 80 percent of Ferrari stock to Fiat Chrysler investors, will boost cash by $3.7 billion, Fiat said in a filing last week.
Fiat Chrysler and CNH will benefit from the UK's corporate tax rate declining to 20 percent next year from 21 percent. Income from patents will eventually be as low as 10 percent, offering potential for additional relief. By comparison, Italy's corporate rate is 31.4 percent. The country is ranked 56th in the World Bank's Doing business ranking, just after Turkey and Hungary. The UK is 8th.
Hampered by stifling policies, the Italian economy has stagnated over the past 14 years and contracted 10 of the last 11 quarters. Unemployment rates are near record levels, and thousands of Italians have left the country in search of a better future. Last year, the number of emigrants from Italy rose 19 percent to 126,000, according to statistics agency Istat.
Ferrari listing
Fiat Chrysler plans to list 10 percent of Ferrari by the third quarter of next year. The carmaker will trade in the U.S. and possibly a European stock exchange, according to the company. Milan is being considered as the secondary listing, with New York the main market, the people said.
London-based Fiat Chrysler hasn't commented on Ferrari's fiscal residence, but Marchionne, who is also Ferrari's chairman, insists the company's roots will remain tied to its traditional home regardless of financial decisions.
Ferrari "is Italian as it has always been," Marchionne said last month at a Fiat event at a test track in Balocco, Italy. "Capital markets are capital markets."

Tuesday, 2 December 2014

Ferrari to mull over loyalty scheme for existing shareholders once the sell off begins.

A loyalty scheme that would increase the voting power of Ferrari shareholders is one option parent Fiat Chrysler Automobiles will consider when it spins off the luxury marque next year, Chairman John Elkann said.
Fiat introduced such a scheme when it merged into Dutch-registered FCA this year, rewarding its own long-term investors and mainly benefiting controlling shareholder Exor, the holding company of the Agnelli family that founded Fiat.

"There are many options today and this is one of them," Elkann told journalists on the sidelines of an event in Milan on Friday.
FCA CEO Sergio Marchionne said last month that he would spin off Ferrari, sell a 10 percent stake via a public offering and distribute the rest of FCA's stake in the supercar brand to its shareholders.
As a consequence, the Agnelli family will emerge as the largest shareholder in Ferrari after the spinoff. A loyalty scheme could tighten the Agnellis' grip further and increase their influence on Ferrari's future strategy.
The spinoff announcement rekindled speculation that the Agnelli family may want to form a pool of luxury brands around Ferrari, including other opulent Italian names from outside the automotive sector, to rival groups such as France's Kering and LVMH.
Marchionne said last month that carmaking is "almost incidental" to Ferrari, which he sees more as a luxury stock.
But Elkann, a scion of the Agnelli family who also heads Exor, dismissed the idea of a luxury conglomerate, saying that Exor's plan is to give Ferrari the chance to develop its own growth strategy