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.
From Vacallo Switzerland Quadro, the world's only 4 wheel scooter and innovative Hydraulically damped 3 wheel scooter has arrived in the UK!
Swiss engineering has become a world mainstay for precision and engineering excellence. With this familiar ethos Quadro has created a scooter like no other in the world showcasing the innovative Quadro Hydraulic Tilt System (HTS).
Quadro 3
Taking the familiar 3 wheel layout Quadro has created a muscular, aggressive design that shares its sporting lines with race snowmobiles, with an imposing presence yet to be seen from another brand. The Quadro story begins under the skin... Over a 5 year development program, Quadro has discarded the traditional suspension components renowned for short service life with a revolutionary patented system 'Hydraulic Tilt System' with innovative Hydraulic Tilt Lock.
HTS can adjust its behaviour according to conditions ensuring surefooted grip and reassuring handling characteristics that automatically adjusts its attitude in all riding conditions, even the most difficult. HTS equips the two front wheels, allowing these to tilt simultaneously. This innovative tilting system guarantees fluidity and precision and a stable riding position even at times of poor balance, caused by road humps,
potholes, metal tram lines, small obstacles, puddles or wet roads.
The HTS system guarantees total stability, maximum security and a predictable feel to the inexperienced yet rewards the experienced rider with grip and poise that has never been seen before. HTS can be locked into place with a light action lever to hold at any angle on any surface.
Quadro 4
The Quadro namesake is not lost as from June 2015 Quadro will launch a world 1st ... The FOUR wheel scooter that fully adopts the HTS system. The wheel at each corner takes handling, grip and safety to completely new heights able to slalom through traffic with ease. It is simply a revolution in transportation offering a low kerb weight and compact dimensions with linear predictable handling characteristics.
QUADRO4 utilises 240mm disc brakes front and rear offering optimal combined braking. QUADRO4 can stop on corners and uneven surfaces, without compromising the scooter's optimal balance or upsetting the grip below.
Using the tilting lock lever, QUADRO4 may be parked on any type of surface. The lever can be activated separately from the scooter's brakes. Activating it will lock the HTS, so that the scooter may be easily moved within small parking spaces, e.g. between two cars in a small garage or at an extreme angle.
Brisk, Powerful performance
Both Quadro 3 and 4 are equipped a single-cylinder 346cc engine adopting a 4 valve, overhead camshaft, providing 27 HP at 7,000 rpm with maximum torque of 25.2 Nm at only 5,500 rpm - allowing the Quadro scooter to guarantee excellent performance in all riding conditions. Both the Quadro 3 and 4 offer seamless, brisk performance capable of over 300 KM per tank. The Quadro 4 adopts a retuned version innovatively centrally mounted with traction on both rear wheels via an integrated differential. It's the worlds 1st 2 wheel drive scooter!
Touring Comfort
The plush dual seat has been designed to offer riders and their passengers, a comfortable seating arrangement. Thanks to the wide space between the chassis and the seat, riders of all sizes will be able to find their own riding position. The seat storage compartment has a 12-volt socket, useful for connecting electronic devices, and can accommodate two helmets. Another 12-volt socket is located inside the front storage compartment, and may be used to plug in ride assisting devices, such as satnavs. A smaller storage compartment can be used for storing small objects and documents such as mobile phones and wallets.
QUADRO's dashboard has been designed to provide the rider with all relevant information and is easy to read yet refined making information easy to grasp.
Suzuki has confirmed pricing for its new Address 110 and Inazuma 250F models, with the economical commuter-targeted machines priced at £1,799 and £3,999 respectively.
The Address 110 defines urban practicality, with its impressive 145MPG* figure, a kerb mass of just 97kg, and over 20 litres of under-seat storage. The stylish new scooter also boasts cutaway footboards, making it easy to stop around town, a rear brake locking system for use when parked, and an ignition cover which aids in security.
Performance comes from a new fuel injection system and redesigned piston skirts, while cast aluminium wheels with hollow cores boost handling capabilities.
The new scooter comes with an RRP of £1,799 while a number of optional accessories are also available, including a top box, hand guards, and tall windscreen.
The Inazuma 250F joins Suzuki's on-road range for 2015, following the success of the naked Inazuma 250 launched at Motorcycle Live 2012.
The new F variant adds a fairing and screen for improved weather protection on longer journeys, all wrapped around an economical 248cc parallel twin capable of 85MPG* while also delivering enough punch for a spirited ride out of town.
The Inazuma 250F is available with an RRP of £3,999. Both the Address 110 and Inazuma 250F are expected in dealers in March.
*Data resulting from tests made by Suzuki in compliance with WMTC. These tests were conducted by a single pilot with no additional optional equipment. Fuel consumption may vary depending on your riding style, how you maintain your vehicle, weather, road conditions, tyre pressure, the presence of accessories, the load, the weight of the crew and many other parameters.
In 2014 BMW Motorrad sold more vehicles than in the year before, thus achieving a record sales figure for the fourth time in a row. With 123,495 (previous year: 115,215 units) vehicles sold in 2014, the manufacturer delivered more motorcycles and Maxi Scooters than ever before in the company's history.
This is an increase of 7.2% compared to an already very strong showing in 2013. In December deliveries rose by 10.9% to 7,032 units (previous year: 6,343 units).
Germany continues to be the most successful single market for the Bavarian brand. 21,714 vehicles, roughly a fifth of all units, were sold in the home market last year. Once again BMW Motorrad was the market leader with a market share of over 25%. The USA follows in second position with 15,301 vehicles sold.
The UK, 1,201 more BMW motorcycles were sold than in the previous year. The next largest single markets are France (11,600) and Italy (10,487). Brazil continued to perform strongly with 7,603 units.
In the relevant market segment of the 500 cc and above categories, BMW Motorrad remained the market leader not only in Germany but also in Italy and Spain.
Stephan Schaller, President of BMW Motorrad: "We can look back on a successful year. For the first time in company history, BMW Motorrad sold more than 120,000 vehicles. This is an increase of 7.2% compared to the already outstanding result of the previous year and is the fourth year of record sales in a row. I would like to express my sincere thanks to all our customers for the trust they have placed in BMW Motorrad."
In 2014 we launched no less than five new models worldwide. These made a major contribution towards achieving the positive sales numbers. With the R nineT we seem to have our finger firmly on the pulse of many BMW Motorrad fans. It got off to a phenomenal start and leapt to fourth place in our bestseller ranking right from the start. This success exceeded our own expectations. BMW Motorrad also ushers in a whole new era in the area of urban mobility with the BMW C evolution .
The electric Maxi-Scooter is the first vehicle of its type for BMW Motorrad. It builds on the experience and innovations of the BMW Group and represents an integral part of our sustainability strategy. Almost 550 units have been sold since last May. The good level of acceptance by our customers shows that we have chosen the right approach with this first step towards electric mobility", says Schaller.
Water-cooled R 1200 GS the most successful BMW motorcycle.
The most popular BMW Motorrad models with over 40,000 units sold are the R 1200 GS (24,380) together with its sister model R 1200 GS Adventure (16.242). The BMW R 1200 RT takes third place with 12,140 units sold. The R nineT sold exceptionally well. In its first year of sales already 8,488 units were delivered worldwide.
This makes the roadster the fourth most successful model in the BMW Motorrad product portfolio. With more than 10,000 units sold, the S 1000 R and the S 1000 RR both achieved an outstanding sales result.
The middle range models F 800 GS/GS Adventure (7,040/4,278 units) and F 700 GS (6,499 units) as well as the F 800 R (3,953 units) and F 800 GT (3,901 units) also remain very popular. The Maxi Scooters C 650 GT and C 600 Sport (6,391 units) were also well received.
A look ahead to 2015 for BMW Motorrad.
The coming season will see numerous innovative and emotional vehicles added to the product portfolio. The new BMW S 1000 RR will be for sale at dealers from spring 2015. The next generation of the supersports bike offers increased engine output, a 4 kg weight reduction and even greater usability. With the new BMW R 1200 R and the R 1200 RS two new flat-twin models will be launched into the coming season. In the new edition of the F 800 R, BMW Motorrad is continuing its series of powerfully distinctive parallel twins.
With the S 1000 XR, BMW Motorrad is also launching the fourth series of its family of high-performance, sports-oriented motorcycles with 4-cylinder inline engine. It unites the qualities of the BMW Motorrad GS, Touring and Sports models resulting in a new breed of motorcycle – Adventure Sport.
Stephan Schaller, President of BMW Motorrad: "BMW Motorrad continues on its course of growth. We will win over new customers for the brand, enter into new segments and expand our portfolio further. Our aim is to achieve record sales in 2015."
Urban traffic congestion is a major problem in many European cities, and is set against a background of increased environmental awareness and the squeeze on many consumers' disposable incomes. The landscape of personal mobility is set to change drastically, and Yamaha is working to develop New Mobility solutions designed to facilitate and encourage the adoption of a new mindset amongst urban commuters.
Despite the availability of a wide choice of scooters, a huge number of commuters continue to make their daily journey into the city using public transport or a car. In addition to these non-riding members of the public, there are also those riders who currently commute on 2-wheels - or may have done so in the past - and are attracted by the increased feeling of stability and riding confidence that are associated with a new 3-wheel concept.
The all-new Tricity is the first model in Yamaha's New Mobility segment, and it represents a new solution to the issue of personal transportation. Unlike some other larger and heavier multi wheel scooter-style vehicles, the Tricity has been developed using a completely different approach in which lightness, sportiness, agility and ease of use are the key elements.
New Yamaha Tricity
An alternative approach
Featuring twin front wheels that automatically lean when cornering, the new Tricity delivers scooter-like agility combined with enhanced confidence and an increased feeling of stability. With a strong focus on riding enjoyment, ease of use and affordability, Yamaha's Tricity is equipped to transform the daily lives of urban commuters throughout Europe.
The Tricity development team in Yamaha Motor Corporation focused on creating a future-proof concept that offers an attractive and realistic alternative for today's urban commuters. The key targets for the Tricity were set as follows:
* Simple, easy and enjoyable to ride
* Light and agile handling
* Increased stability feeling
* Comfortable in different road conditions
* Functional and practical urban commuter
* Unique design with innovative and advanced technology
* Weight and overall dimensions in line with 125 class scooter
New Leaning Multi Wheel Chassis
Added riding confidence with a new kind of enjoyment
The Tricity's exclusive new Leaning Multi Wheel (LMW) mechanism has been developed specifically by Yamaha for our New Mobility vehicles, and it features a patented system that is designed to create a good feeling of stability, combined with a sporty and agile handling character.
Hidden behind the lightweight front cowl, a lightweight parallelogram link gives the rider the ability to lean the Tricity in much the same way as a conventional 2-wheel scooter. The parallelogram link's component parts are connected to the forks and the frame's steering head, and when the Tricity rider enters a turn this system allows the twin front wheels to lean over in parallel. While leaning over, the track (distance between the twin front wheels) remains almost consistent, and this ensures a natural and intuitive feel during cornering.
Another key element of Yamaha's new LMW mechanism is the use of special tandem-type cantilevered telescopic front forks that feature two separate tubes for each wheel. The rear fork tubes function as guides, while the front fork tubes handle the shock absorbing functions to deliver smooth cushioning throughout the 90mm stroke. The suspension system on each front wheel operates completely independently, and this gives a smooth and stable feel over bumpy road surfaces and in changing road conditions.
Lightweight cast alloy wheels
For sure-footed roadholding and easy handling over a variety of road surfaces, the Tricity is equipped with twin 14-inch aluminium front wheels that are fitted with 90/80-14 tyres. Featuring 3 pairs of V-shaped cast spokes, these beautifully styled lightweight wheels complement the dynamic and elegant bodywork to give the Tricity a unique and enchanting image.
At the rear the Tricity is equipped with a 12-inch diameter cast alloy wheel with a 110/90-12 tyre, and this 3-wheel layout delivers a smooth and comfortable ride together with good levels of cornering grip for confident roadholding.
Unified Brake System (UBS)
The Tricity is equipped with a Unified Brake System (UBS) that is designed to enhance stopping efficiency and deliver smoother chassis characteristics during braking. The system incorporates twin 220m diameter front discs and a 230mm rear disc, and when only the left hand brake lever is applied, the braking force is applied to the rear wheel and also to the front wheels, giving balanced and effective stopping power.
When the rider applies only the right hand lever, the front brakes are applied, and when the rider applies both the left and right levers at the same time the Unified Brake System distributes the braking force to the front and back brakes using input from both levers.
The intelligent UBS technology not only makes the Tricity easy to use, it also ensures smoother stopping with minimal fluctuation in the handlebar motion.
Newly developed 125cc 4-stroke liquid-cooled engine
Smooth, lively and economical
Powering the Tricity is a newly developed 125cc liquid-cooled 4-stroke engine that has been designed to produce good acceleration from low speeds, together with smooth higher speed operation. The engine benefits from specially designed intake and exhaust systems that enhance performance in typical urban stop/start situations, making the Tricity a strong performer in congested city streets.
This new engine is equipped with a special cylinder that has been developed using Yamaha's leading casting technology. Manufactured from aluminium alloy with specific silicon content, this lightweight cylinder has no steel sleeve, and the piston runs directly onto an aluminium bore. This unique design gives excellent heat distribution, which in turn contributes towards stable engine performance and improved lubricant life.
For high levels of economy the new engine is equipped with Yamaha's exclusive YMJET-FI fuel injection system that ensures high combustion efficiency with smooth low speed acceleration, together with a responsive power feeling through the mid and high rpm ranges.
The lively 125cc engine transmits its power to the rear wheel via an efficient CVT transmission for smooth and easy acceleration, making the Tricity an ideal means of transport for customers who have little or no scootering experience.
Light and compact
The key element in New Mobility
Weighing just 152 kg with fuel and oil, the defining characteristic of the new Tricity is its light, compact and agile handling feeling that sets Yamaha's New Mobility engineering philosophy apart from the larger and heavier multi-wheel models available in the market.
With its confidence inspiring 3-wheel design - combined with a fun-to-ride character and a smart, modern image - this revolutionary new model is ready to win the hearts and minds of those non-riding commuters who are ready to make a change to their daily lives. Of course, the Tricity is also sure to find favour with many past and present scooter riders who value the additional benefits that this compact 3-wheel scooter has to offer.
The lightweight bodywork is both strong and easy to clean, making it ideal for the rigours of city life - while the aluminium wheels keep unsprung weight low for agile steering feel together with smooth and responsive suspension characteristics. The strong new tubular frame design also offers a large flat footboard with plenty of space for the rider, while also contributing towards weight reduction.
50:50 weight distribution and centralized centre of gravity
Weight distribution plays a major role in shaping the handling and character of every vehicle, and this lightweight urban commuter benefits from a 50:50 weight distribution. This philosophy of distributing the weight evenly between the front and rear wheels is the same as the approach used on Yamaha's MotoGP bikes, and it contributes greatly towards achieving the Tricity's easy manoeuvrability and natural and enjoyable handling character.
Furthermore, the Tricity's centre of gravity has been set at a point just below the front of the seat, and together with the low overall weight and 50:50 weight distribution, this idealized centre of gravity is another key factor in achieving a light and responsive handling character.
Contemporary design
Smart and practical bodywork
Yamaha's designers have created a smart body design that accentuates the modern and aesthetic appeal of this New Mobility vehicle. Viewed from the side, the beautiful lines of the front cowl flow smoothly into the flat footboard area and through to the rear cowl. The contrasting colors of the body panels enhance the futuristic profile - while the combination of the aerodynamic front cowl together with an upswept tail and angular twin front fenders gives an overall impression of dynamic movement.
The beautifully styled bodywork is functional as well as fashionable, and Tricity riders can look forward to experiencing a relaxed and comfortable ride on their journey to work. The stepped dual seat features a slip resistant material, and its generous length and substantial cushioning material ensures a comfortable journey for the rider and passenger.
The upswept legshields and flat footboard area give a roomy riding position with easy accessibility, and the lightweight bodywork and sports screen also help to protect the rider from the wind and weather. There's plenty of storage space under the seat, which can accommodate full-face helmet designs, and a convenience hook in front of the rider gives useful carrying capacity.
Easy to read instruments and LED lights
Just like the rest of this new urban commuter, the instruments are stylish, functional and easy to use. An animated sequence greets the rider when the Tricity is turned on, and the attractive full LCD instrument panel features a central digital speedometer flanked by a clock, air temperature gauge and odometer. The display also includes an array of indicator lights, and the easy to read design displays the relevant information in a clear manner.
To enhance the futuristic styling the Tricity is equipped with dual front LED position lights, and there is also an LED taillight and LED license plate lamp.
Affordable price and low running costs
By ensuring that the company's entire design, development and production processes are operating at a high level of efficiency, Yamaha have been able to ensure that its new generation of models can be produced with reduced lead times and also at a highly competitive price.
Available from Yamaha European dealers in summer 2014, the new Tricity will be priced at less than €4,000, confirming its aim to really create a new segment in the urban commuter market.
With high fuel economy and low maintenance costs, this innovative New Mobility vehicle is poised to change the urban commuter market and introduce many new and existing riders to an affordable, easy and more enjoyable way to live every day.
Yamaha Tricity Highlights
* The first Yamaha 'New Mobility' urban commuter model
* A realistic, economical and fashionable urban transport solution
* Exclusive Leaning Multi Wheel (LMW) engineering
* By far the lightest, most compact and most agile 3-wheeler
* 3-wheel layout provides riding comfort and a good feeling of stability
* Closely spaced front wheels give scooter-like manoeuvrability
