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 retractable roof. Show all posts
Showing posts with label retractable roof. Show all posts

Monday, 22 May 2017

More details on the presidential DS 7 Crossback, the all new SUV to move teh brand forward.

  • New picture images show the attention-to-detail of the DS7CROSSBACK driven at the ceremony of the inauguration of new French PresidentEmmanuel Macron
  • The Ink Blue DS 7 CROSSBACK was specially-personalised with many handcrafted bespoke features
  • A fully-retracting roof allowed the new President was able to greet the assembled crowds on the Champs-Elysées
  • DS has strong provenance having been the vehicle of choice on many previous inauguration occasions
  • French president’s inauguration DS 7 CROSSBACK SUV is now on display at DS World Paris
The specially-commissioned DS 7 CROSSBACK produced for the first journey of the new President of the French Republic, Emmanuel Macron has many notable handcrafted and fine attention-to-detail features. The ‘Presidential’ DS 7 CROSSBACK had been specially-personalised with a fully-retractable opening roof - so the President was able to greet the French crowd along the Champs-Elysées.
The DS brand was proud that DS 7 CROSSBACK was chosen as the inauguration’s car of the new French President and that it followed the recent launch of the SUV by DS. 
This historical moment provided the opportunity for the DS brand, whose ambition is to embody both French know-how and innovation in the automotive industry, to further pursue the tradition of being the official car manufacturer of the French presidency. DS models are emblematic and have historical provenance, having been used many times on similar symbolic occasions with the Fifth Republic (FR).
The ‘Presidential ‘ DS 7 CROSSBACK is currently being proudly-displayed at DS WORLD Paris, located at 33 Rue François 1er, 75008 Paris and is open daily between 8.30am and 7pm.
‘Presidential DS 7 CROSSBACK‘ - details in brief
  • The very first DS 7 CROSSBACK on the public roads : DS engineers and craftsmen worked on this unique Presidential car, 7 months before its public launch (first deliveries start in January 2018)
  • Distinguished in a sumptuous Ink Blue paint finish, it features a custom- made opening roof, French Republic signature badging and a Tricolour flag holder
  • The ‘Black Art’ Leather interior (named ‘Opera Inspiration’ after a district of Paris) is revised by a French creation (‘Toile de Laque’ is tailored and created by a craftsman recognised for their expertise and know-how in the specialism of decorative gilding: Atelier Maury)
  • The 20 inch wheels are personalised with finely-created golden attention-to-detail features
  • Most of highly-technical features of the DS 7 CROSSBACK feature some of the new items that will become available with this vehicle: DS CONNECTED PILOT, paving the way for autonomous driving, DS ACTIVE SCAN SUSPENSION, the 21st century DS suspension system, which uses a camera to anticipate any bumps and undulations in the road surface to ensure the President and future occupants of this vehicle can enjoy a serene ride experience.

Tuesday, 4 March 2014

GENEVA - McLaren 650 Spider joins coupe at Geneva

  • New McLaren 650S Spider just as engaging on road and track as fixed-roof Coupé
  • 0-100km/h (62 mph) takes 3.0 seconds, 0-200 km/h (124 mph) in 8.6 seconds
  • No reduction in torsional strength due to unique carbon fibre MonoCell chassis; similar weight, too
  • Two piece roof can be raised or lowered in less than 17 seconds on the move at speeds up to 30 km/h (19 mph)
McLaren Automotive has now released images and full information for the convertible version of its latest model, the McLaren 650S, unveiled at the 84th International Geneva Motor Show. The McLaren 650S Spider is a no compromise open-top high performance sports car offering the same performance, handling and driver enjoyment, with the addition of a two-piece retractable hard top. The latest model is shown in Tarocco Orange, a new addition to the McLaren colour collection, developed with technology partner AkzoNobel.


The McLaren 650S Spider is mechanically identical to the 650S Coupé and is fitted with the unique McLaren M838T twin turbo V8 engine, producing 650PS (641 bhp) and 678 Nm (500 lb ft). This means a 0-100 km/h (62 mph) sprint of 3.0 seconds, identical to the Coupé, and 200 km/h (124 mph) is reached in 8.6 seconds, only 0.2 seconds shy of the fixed-head model. Maximum speed is 329 km/h mph (204 mph). Fuel consumption and emissions remain the same for the 650S Spider, returning 24.2 mpg (11.7 l/100km) on the EU combined cycle and 275 g/km.


Most competitors do not offer high performance iterations as convertibles due to the compromises that invariably plague open-roof cars. These models will be heavier and have substantially less torsional rigidity, to the detriment of handling and ride.

The carbon fibre MonoCell chassis at the heart of the McLaren 650S requires no additional strengthening or reinforcing in open-top guise, and gives the 650S Spider identical handling and ride, and virtually identical straight-line performance figures. The overall weight of the 650S Spider is 1,370 kg (dry), an increase of only 40 kg over the Coupé, with this additional mass coming from the Retractable Hard Top and roof mechanism, and is less than any other car in its class.

The two-piece Retractable Hard Top can be automatically raised or lower in less than 17 seconds, and can be activated while stationary or at any speed up to 30km/h (19mph).
As with the 12C Spider, the 650S Spider uses a heated glass rear window, operating independently of the roof. With the roof down, the rear window acts as a wind deflector, reducing cabin buffeting. Roof up, the rear screen can be lowered to allow more engine noise – and driving drama – into the cabin, and for a semi-open top driving experience even when it is raining. When down, the roof is stowed beneath a body-coloured hard tonneau cover incorporated in the twin rear buttresses. With the roof raised, the area beneath the tonneau cover can be used as additional luggage space.


Rather than being a stripped out road racer, the 650S Coupé and 650 Spider models are fitted with a high level of luxury equipment as standard. Carbon ceramic brakes sit behind unique ‘650’ lightweight alloy wheels shod with Pirelli P Zero™ Corsa tyres, IRIS satellite navigation with Bluetooth telephony, DAB digital radio in Europe (SIRIUS satellite radio in North America), wireless tethering, audio streaming and voice control are all fitted as standard, and the cabin is fully trimmed in Alcantara.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION– McLaren 650S SPIDER
Drivetrain LayoutLongitudinal Mid-Engine, RWDTrack, F/R (mm)1656 / 1583
Engine ConfigurationV8 Twin Turbo / 3799ccLength (mm)4512
Engine
PS / rpm
650 / 7250Width (mm)2093
Torque Nm / rpm678 / 6000Height (mm)1203
Transmission7 Speed SSGDry Weight (kg / lbs)1370 / 3020
Body Structure
Carbon Fibre MonoCell with  
Aluminium Front and Rear Frames
Active AerodynamicsMcLaren Airbrake
Wheelbase (mm)2670SuspensionProActive Chassis Control
BrakesCarbon Ceramic Discs with Forged Aluminium Hubs (F 394mm/R 380mm)ProActive Chassis Control modesNormal / Sport / Track
Tyres (F/R)
Pirelli P Zero Corsa 235/35 R19 /
Pirelli P Zero Corsa 305/30 R20
Powertrain ModesWinter / Normal / Sport / Track
Wheel Sizes (F/R)19” x 8.5”J / 20” x 11” J  
PERFORMANCE DATA – McLaren 650S SPIDER
EfficiencyCO2275 g/km
 Fuel consumption (combined)24.2 mpg
 Power to weight (with lightweight options)485 PS (478 bhp) /tonne
 CO2/power0.42 g/km per PS
   
SpeedMaximum speed329 km/h (204 mph)
   
Acceleration0-100 kph (62 mph)3.0 s*
 0-200 kph (124 mph)8.6 s*
 0-300 kph (186 mph)26.5 s*
 0-400 m / ¼ mile          10.6 @ 222 km/h (138 mph)*
   
BrakingBraking100-0 km/h     30.7 m (101 ft)
  200-0 km/h     124 m (407 ft)
  300-0 km/h     273 m (896 ft)
*with standard-fit Pirelli P Zero™ Corsa tyre
All figures apply to a European specification McLaren 6505 Spider

Friday, 14 February 2014

The ALL NEW Peugeot 108, the final piece in Peugeots re-invention

  • PEUGEOT presents its all-new compact city car, the 108
  • Two distinct body styles, 108 Hatchback and the 108 TOP! with retractable fabric roof
  • Characterful and chic design perfectly suited to urban journeys
  • Packed with choice – hatchback or retractable fabric roof models, three or five doors, exterior and interior colours with extensive personalisation
  • Latest ‘connected’ technology, including innovative ‘Mirror Screen’
  • Ultra-efficient three-cylinder engines in a lightweight vehicle, from just 840kg

“In just two years, PEUGEOT has completely renewed its offering in the A, B and C segments. Today, the brand is proud to welcome the new PEUGEOT 108 to its youngest ever model range.”
Maxime Picat, Director General, Automobiles PEUGEOT.


“The new PEUGEOT 108 participates in the brand’s product offensive and move up-market, with a rewarding and outgoing spirit, emphasised by the personalisation schemes expected by customers.”
Xavier Peugeot, Product Director, Automobiles PEUGEOT.

PEUGEOT 108: meet the new star of the city

“Conceived as a car from the segment above, the new 108 fits in with the values of the PEUGEOT Marque. It is balanced, elegant and refined. In a minimal volume, it marries precise lines and harmonious curves to encourage the driver to take the wheel.” Ivo Groen, 108 Styling Manager.


Another chapter in PEUGEOT’s small car success story begins with the unveiling of the all-new 108. For the first time, the brand‘s urban runabout is available in two distinct body styles – the 108 Hatchback and the retractable fabric roof 108 TOP!.

At 3.47m long and 1.62m wide, it’s got the compact dimensions that will really make the difference in town. Its reduced overhangs and turning circle of just 9.6m allow it to avoid obstacles with ease. This architecture allows the driving position to be brought well forward, providing excellent vision in every direction.


The car has been designed to excel in urban traffic. The front end is dominated by its bold grille, central beam and lower air intake, while the front lamps are firmly set into the bodywork. Common to all trim levels, their ‘technical’ design combines smart black and chrome to give the car a sharp and dynamic look. The upper sections contain LEDs for daytime running lights.

With its machine-finished edge, the grille surround creates a solid on-road presence and proudly houses the PEUGEOT name badge. The famous Lion logo sits above, central between the two bonnet lines which run up to the windscreen in one fluid movement.

From the side, the 108’s compact form is highlighted by its front and rear overhangs, both reduced to the minimum. Access to the interior remains easy, with one or two doors on each side that stretch almost from wheel to wheel. The car’s dynamism is underlined by a chrome blade that emerges from the front wings and extends to the bottom of the glass above.


The wraparound-style rear lights include all functionality and, with a 3D effect, make the brand’s three-claw signature motif appear to emerge from the body. Together with the horizontal lines of the rear bumper, they give the car an extra perception of width. Above, the large glazed tailgate extends from the spoiler to the loading sill with integrated hinges. At the base, opaque markings mask the load space.

The contemporary and sophisticated exterior is mirrored on the inside of the PEUGEOT 108, with a comfortable cabin that feels like it has come from a much larger premium car. It has been designed to be intuitive to use, with each area being allocated to a specific function and information brought together for easy and quick reading. The speedometer housing forms part of the steering column, which is adjustable for height, and covered by a cowl to ensure it is legible in all light conditions. It comprises an analogue speedometer and an LCD screen arranged concentrically. Either side, extensions house the rev counter and gear shift indicator.


Once the driver is sitting in the height-adjustable seat, the various controls are all within easy reach. They include the striking 7-inch touch-screen, the starter button coupled with the PEUGEOT Open and Go system, plus the automatic air conditioning.

Behind the steering wheel are controls for the speed limiter, while the fuel filler flap opening and heated electric mirror controls are easily accessible on the dashboard. The controls for the front electric windows fall readily to hand, grouped together on the driver’s door panel.

For customers opting for the retractable fabric roof 108 TOP!, the electric control switch for the fabric roof – 80cm wide and 76cm long – is just above the rear view mirror. It’s possible to adjust the opening to any position, and an aero-acoustic deflector is deployed automatically to reduce cabin turbulence.

PEUGEOT 108: personalisation
“From the start of the project, we wanted to create a car that made the driver happy. With its many qualities, the new PEUGEOT 108 makes you smile, every day. With personalisation, everyone will have their own unique PEUGEOT 108.” Béatrice Garric, Brand Project Manager.


The all-new PEUGEOT 108 is already packed with character, but customers can add even more by choosing from a wide range of personalisation options. For body colour, there are eight striking shades, including two which are exclusive to the model: Aïkinite is a golden copper, and Purple Berry, a stunning shade of violet.

Reserved for the three-door hatchback are two versions of two-tone paint, Purple Berry and Zircon Grey, or Diamond White and Aïkinite. Anyone opting for the 108 TOP! model has the choice of three retractable fabric roof colours – Black, Grey or Purple Berry.

In addition, there are seven personalisation themes, three interior ambiences and a choice of six trims. The Peugeot 108 will cater for every taste.

PEUGEOT 108: the connected car
“PEUGEOT 108 is the city car that is ahead of its time. Evidently it is hyper-compact; that is the basic requirement. It takes its driver into a new era of connectivity with the Mirror Screen technology. At the wheel, the experience is unprecedented.” Pascal Béziat, PEUGEOT 108 Project Director.

The all-new PEUGEOT 108 brings the urban car into a new era with its large touch-screen in the middle of the dashboard.  Standard from Active trim, this 7-inch display boosts the relationship between car and driver to a new high. It is the interface for the audio system, trip computer and for vehicle settings, but using Bluetooth® connectivity is also the access point for the driver’s smartphone.

The user can connect the phone’s applications that are compatible with use in a vehicle using Mirror Screen. This function operates using MirrorLinkTM technology for telephones running on Android, RIM and Windows, and by AppInCar for telephones running on Apple’s iOS.

It means the touch-screen in the PEUGEOT 108 becomes a mirror image of the connected smartphone. The driver then operates their smartphone from the car’s touch-screen. Depending on the telephone connected, applications can also be operated by voice commands using a voice recognition system.

For obvious safety considerations, access to applications is managed differently according to the state of the vehicle. For example, when the car is moving, the driver can only use applications such as navigation, or those for infotainment. This includes PEUGEOT Music, the brand’s internet radio station.

PEUGEOT 108: driving pleasure every day
“For the buyer, the new 108 is the guarantee of the brand’s move up-market. Style, quality, equipment, engines …everything has been taken into account to satisfy the customer who has the feeling of driving in a vehicle from the segment above.” Xavier Nicolas, PEUGEOT 108 Product Manager.

With its compact dimensions, the all-new PEUGEOT 108 is dynamic and agile around town, with excellent all-round visibility and practicality. For example, the PEUGEOT Open and Go system allows the doors to be unlocked, and the tailgate to be unlocked and partially opened, with just a press on the appropriate button.

On opening the tailgate, the parcel shelf automatically folds away against the rear screen and reveals a boot that is generous for the segment – 196 litres with the puncture repair kit, 180 litres with the spare wheel. Loading is easy thanks to the low sill, just 77cm off the ground, and a metre-wide space between the wheel arches. The initial volume can be extended to 750 litres by folding the 50/50 rear seat backrests forward. To do this, simply pull one of the straps accessible from the boot. Inside, the PEUGEOT 108 provides several storage areas. For example, the glove box and door pockets will take a 1-litre and 500ml bottle respectively.

A comfortable driving position is quickly found using the steering column height and seat adjustments. The PEUGEOT Open and Go system means the driver can simply press the button on the centre panel to start the engine. The driver can concentrate on safe driving thanks to the speed limiter and automatic lighting. If reverse gear is engaged, the reversing camera displays a colour image on the touch-screen.

Passengers are protected in all circumstances by six airbags fitted as standard: two frontal airbags (the passenger airbag can be switched off), two lateral airbags at the front, and two curtain airbags covering the front and rear seats. Finally, for the safety of children in the car, the two rear seats are equipped with IsoFix mounts.

PEUGEOT 108: an engine to suit all uses

The 108 range is made up of four efficient three-cylinder power units:

  • 1.0-litre e-VTi 68bhp 5-speed manual – 88g/km CO2 Stop & Start
  • 1.0-litre VTi  68bhp 5-speed manual – 95g/km CO2
  • 1.0-litre VTi 68bhp 5-speed electronic – 97g/km CO2,
  • 1.2-litre PureTech VTi 82bhp 5-speed manual – 99g/km CO2

Each works to take advantage of the lightness of the PEUGEOT 108 – it weighs from just 840kg – to provide occupants with the perfect balance between road-holding and comfort. Running gear has been developed around a pseudo-McPherson front axle and a deformable rear beam made from a shaped tube. Compared to a component made from pressed steel, this solution offers the advantages of improved guidance and reduced weight.

PEUGEOT 108: safe and easy handling on the road
As soon as you take the controls of the all-new PEUGEOT 108, it reveals just how easy it is to use. Its light weight, electric power steering and the quality of its running gear all make their contribution.

The track is 1,425mm at the front and 1,420mm at the rear. There are two tyre sizes, 165/65 R14 or 165/60 R15, with ultra-low rolling resistance. They are continuously monitored by the Indirect Tyre Under-Inflation Detection system. All models have Hill Start Assist.

The braking system includes ABS, Electronic Brake Force Distribution, Emergency Collision Braking System and switchable ESP as standard. Stopping power comes from 247mm ventilated discs at the front and 200mm drums at the rear.

All this advanced technology combines in the PEUGEOT 108 to make every driver smile. With responsive steering, stable braking and a refined ride, the car is just as at home on the open road as it is in town.

It’s a compact vehicle for a new generation of urban drivers who seek a sophisticated and versatile model that meets their every motoring need. The PEUGEOT 108 means there is no need to compromise, with a high level of standard equipment, a wide range of desirable optional extras and great value for money.

The all-new PEUGEOT 108 will have its world premiere at the Geneva Motor Show on Tuesday 4th March, and will go on sale in the UK on 1st July 2014.