Friday, December 27, 2013
2014 Chevrolet Impala Taking Air Intake Seriously
Variable valve timing has been an integral part of making engines make more horsepower and consumer less fuel for awhile now. Now it seems that isnt good enough and manufacturers are looking for ways to gain even more control on how engines breath.
Chevrolet is taking some concepts from other manufacturers and tweaking them for an all new valve train system for their new 2.5L Ecotec engine. With any system like this there is always an acronym. This one happens to be IVLC, read Intake Valve Life Control. This system incorporates two outer high lift lobes and one inner low lift lobe per cylinder.
This systems has two settings, low lift and full lift. Low lift opens the intake valve a total of 4.0 millimeters. In this mode oil pressure is starved from the system and this unlatches the high lift roller from the low lift roller. This occurs under light throttle and cruising situations when just the right amount of air is needed.
When the driver needs more power the system actuates a pin via oil pressure to lock the high and low lift rollers together. Now the driver is getting 10.5 millimeters of valve lift for maximum power and torque. This mode comes into play during hard acceleration and passing situations.
IVLC has a lot in common with other valve train designs. Honda has their V-TEC and Fiat has their Multiair system. Other manufacturers use systems that have an actuator that can advance or retard the valve timing depending on engine needs.
Chevrolet says this system is good for "up to" one mile per gallon boost. Mike Anderson who is General Motors global chief engineer for Ecotec engines said, “Intake Valve Lift Control works so seamlessly drivers aren’t likely to notice it at all,”. Chevrolet has stressed refinement and efficiency with the new 2.5 liter Ecotec engines.
Customers wont have to wait for the Impala to sample this engine though. Another iteration of it will be found under the hood of the 2013 Chevrolet Malibu. This version will not have IVLC.
What do my gear heads think? Is this a good system? Will it increase fuel efficiency? Will this be enough motive force for the upcoming Impala? Let me know in the comments.
Jaguar XF Sportbrake
- Jaguar XF Sportbrake, 2013
The Jaguar XF Sportbrake takes Jaguars globally acclaimed sporting saloon and extends its versatility and practicality while retaining the models core values of dramatic, muscular elegance, a dynamic driving experience and contemporary luxury.
"The XF epitomises the Jaguar sporting dynamic with its combination of innovative, seductive design and performance. In the XF Sportbrake this is complemented by a no-compromise approach to practicality and versatility." Adrian Hallmark, Global Brand Director, Jaguar Cars
The Jaguar XF Sportbrake builds on the extensive refresh received by the XF saloon for the 2012 model year which saw it adopt a more assertive appearance in line with the flagship XJ model - including striking new lightblade headlamp technology.
The Jaguar XF Sportbrake is entirely new from the B-pillar backwards, endowing it with a very different aesthetic, exemplified by the tautly-drawn elegance of the side-window line and highlighted by its polished finish. The conjunction of flowing rear window graphic, rising waist and estate roofline lends the XF Sportbrake a dynamic, broad-shouldered stance.
The design-led approach that created the Jaguar XF Sportbrakes exterior has been achieved in tandem with the goal of maximising practicality. The extended roofline affords rear-seat passengers an additional 48mm of headroom and the seats offer both a 60:40 split fold function and integral ski hatch. Remote-fold levers inside the load-space opening allow the seats to be stowed flat quickly and easily, creating a cargo volume of up to 1675 litres.
Befitting the Jaguar XF Sportbrakes perfect balance between usability and beauty, it is powered exclusively by Jaguars range of powerful, refined and efficient diesel engines, driving the rear wheels via an eight-speed automatic gearbox. The 2.2-litre engine is fitted with Jaguars Intelligent Stop-Start system, making it the companys most efficient powertrain to date, while the 3.0-litre twin-turbo V6 is available in two states of tune, with 275PS in the range-topping Diesel S.
DESIGN
Launched in 2008, the XF introduced a coupe-like profile to the sporting saloon template and received plaudits worldwide for its seductive combination of dynamics, performance, quality, design and luxury.
Substantially redesigned both inside and out for the 2012 model year, the saloon is now joined by the Jaguar XF Sportbrake which builds on the models undoubted performance credentials and provides an additional level of practicality.
The Jaguar design philosophy is based on the smooth, uninterrupted flow of lines that lead the eye along and around the vehicle and this is readily apparent in the Jaguar XF Sportbrake which, despite sharing an identical wheelbase with the saloon, is imbued with even greater presence.
The first of these elegantly simple feature lines begins in the propeller-inspired blades fitted to the side air intakes, leading the eye into the lower wing crease and then along the sills of the car and around the rear bumper. The second feature line runs up from the outer edge of the same intakes, defining the edges of the front wings before wrapping the entire way around the car, creating the XF Sportbrakes muscular shoulder line.
Sharing the same new lightblade headlamp technology as the saloon, the Jaguar XF Sportbrake also adopts the new, more upright grille and purposeful bonnet, giving it an enhanced rear-view mirror recognition factor. The lights themselves feature bi-function HID xenon technology and LED daytime-running lights arranged in a distinctive Jaguar J-Blade pattern.
From the leading edges of the grille, strong feature lines rise over the bonnet, then seamlessly into the A-pillars and over the roof, defining the load area before flowing down to form the slope of the tailgate and rear bumper. The roofline itself is echoed by polished roof rails (when specified) that add both functionality as well as a strong feature element. The signature Jaguar side window graphic is here seen in its most elegant and elongated form, stretched backwards to the rear windscreen like a taut bowstring and highlighted with a brightly polished finish.
The clever conjunction of the side window graphic tapering down to meet the rising shoulder line not only emphasises the Jaguar XF Sportbrakes strong haunches but also helps the rear roofline appear to taper elegantly towards the tail. This impression of fluidity is heightened by the use of gloss black finishers on the rear pillars, providing a wraparound effect in conjunction with the tinted rear screen, an aesthetic inspired by the superstructures of luxury yachts. The rear lamps feature LED technology for brake, light and indicator functions and, by their width and the manner in which they sandwich the chrome signature blade, emphasise the solid rear stance of the Jaguar XF Sportbrake.
The Jaguar XF Sportbrake is available with two optional exterior design packages that serve to further strengthen the assertiveness of its appearance. The Aero Pack (standard on the S model) adds a deeper front bumper, side sills and rear valance plus a rear spoiler enhancement - a tailgate spoiler being standard on all models. The Black Pack replaces the exterior bright finishes with gloss black and pairs them with similarly finished alloy wheels to create new colour combinations that are subtly distinctive and eye-catching.
THE INTERIOR
As with the exterior, the cabin of the XF has been upgraded to ensure it retains that essential Jaguar appeal, creating a sense of sporting luxury by using the finest combinations of premium quality, crafted materials, complemented by the use of intuitive technology.
A centrally-mounted touch-screen offers control of the navigation system and a range of other functions, while the switchgear features new soft-touch matt black paint and a soft phosphor blue illumination theme throughout. The metallicAurorafinish to the majority of the brightwork complements new aluminium and veneer accents. More sculpted, heavily bolstered front seats introduced for the 2012 model year hint at the dynamic potential of the car and feature a racetrack design device that creates a sporting bucket seat aesthetic.
For the Jaguar XF Sportbrake, entirely new rear seats, which allow generous seating for five, are comprehensively redesigned and feature an integral ski hatch and a 60:40 split. Rear passengers also enjoy an additional 48mm of headroom.
Remote-fold levers situated just inside the tailgate allow the rear seats to be folded down with just one touch to provide an uninterrupted load surface that is 1970mm in length. The practicality of the Jaguar XF Sportbrakes load-space is further enhanced by its width which allows, for instance, sideways stowage of golf clubs. The tailgate features soft-close power latching and can be specified with a fully powered open and close function.
The load-space displays Jaguars typical attention to detail as it is trimmed in materials identical in quality to the Jaguar XF Sportbrakes cabin. The central portion of the load-space floor can be lifted to reveal an extra, hidden storage compartment and can also fold and lock into position to quickly and easily divide up the bay.
The practicality of the load-space is extended through the inclusion of a floor rail system, which allows the quick fitment and release, for example, of optional nets and retaining bars to compartmentalise the space. A wide range of accessories engineered for the Jaguar XF Sportbrake will allow owners to extend its versatility still further by organising or extending its carrying capacity.
A towbar can also be specified - when not needed the tow-hitch can be removed quickly, stored in a dedicated stowage space inside the boot, and replaced with a rear valance cover to disguise its mounting point. When fitted with the towbar, the Jaguar XF Sportbrakes Trailer Sway Mitigation system is activated. This uses the cars Anti-Lock Braking and stability control systems to reduce the risk of snaking when towing.
DYNAMICS
The Jaguar XF Sportbrake firmly emphasises both the practical and sporting sides of its character through its powertrain choices. Exclusively fitted with Jaguars range of four-cylinder 2.2-litre and V6 3.0-litre diesel engines, the XF Sportbrake offers an exemplary combination of refinement, fuel economy, low emissions, plentiful power and refinement.
The 2.2-litre four-cylinder engine is offered in combination with an eight-speed gearbox and Jaguars Intelligent Stop-Start system, enabling the Jaguar XF Sportbrake to offer the performance and driver appeal expected of a Jaguar with reduced emissions and improved fuel consumption. When the car comes to a halt a range of parameters are automatically assessed and, if suitable, the engine is stopped. A Twin Solenoid Starter then restarts the engine in less time than it takes the drivers foot to move from the brake to the accelerator. The system also offers change of mind functionality, enabling the engine to quickly restart even during its rundown phase to allow the driver to, for example, exploit a gap in traffic at a junction.
Jaguars 3.0-litre twin-turbo V6 engine is offered in two states of tune in the Jaguar XF Sportbrake, both mated to the same eight-speed gearbox that in all models offers driver control via steering wheel-mounted paddles. The range-topping S model offers 275PS (202kW) and 600Nm (442lb/ft) of torque, fulfilling all the requirements of an enthusiastic driver.
Every derivative of the Jaguar XF Sportbrake is fitted as standard with self-levelling air suspension at the rear to replace the coil springs fitted to the saloon. This system has been developed and tuned by Jaguars chassis engineers to offer the same linear responses and ensure the XF Sportbrake offers identical dynamic attributes in terms of ride and handling as the saloon while keeping the car level even when fully laden.
Additionally, all Jaguar XF Sportbrake models are available with the Jaguar Adaptive Dynamics system which continuously monitors the suspension and, courtesy of active dampers, can alter damping rates up to 500 times a second to ensure optimal stability and handling with no loss of comfort. The system also allows the driver - at the touch of a button - to alter suspension and throttle response parameters to increase the level of involvement.
The intuitive use of driving technology is also evident in the XF Sportbrake via safety features including Adaptive Front Lighting, which deflects headlamp beam into corners, while intelligent high beam functionality automatically switches between low and high beam when appropriate. Adaptive Cruise Control enables the XF Sportbrake to monitor vehicles around it, automatically braking should a slower vehicle be ahead, then resuming set speed once the road is clear. Operating in conjunction with Adaptive Cruise Control is an Intelligent Emergency Brake system which, in the event of detecting the necessity for a severe stop, applies maximum optimal braking force.
JAGUAR XF SPORTBRAKE DIMENSIONS
- Length: 4966 mm
- Width (inc. mirrors): 2077 mm
- Width (exc. mirrors): 1877 mm
- Wheelbase: 2909 mm
- Front track: 1559 mm
- Rear track: 1605 mm
- Load-space maximum length: 1970 mm
- Load-space minimum width: 1064 mm
- Load-space maximum volume: 1675 litres
- Load-space volume behind rear seats, under tonneau: 550 litres
- Permitted trailer load, braked: 1850kg
2011 Chevrolet camaro V6 Price of 22 805
Thursday, December 26, 2013
Renault Clio RS 200 EDC Car Model
2013 Renault Clio RS 200 EDC Car Model |
2013 Renault Clio RS 200 EDC Car Model |
2013 Renault Clio RS 200 EDC Car Model |
2013 Renault Clio RS 200 EDC Car Model |
2013 Renault Clio RS 200 EDC Car Model |
2013 Renault Clio RS 200 EDC Car Model |
2013 Renault Clio RS 200 EDC Car Model |
2013 Renault Clio RS 200 EDC Car Model |
New Renault Clio R.S. 200 EDC available in a choice of five body colors, including the exclusive, symbolic Yellow Liquid. Non-metallic coating : Glacier White, Metallic surfaces : Flamme Red, Profond Black, Platinum Grey, Sirius Yellow.
2011 Aston Martin DB9 Price of 187 615
2012 BMW 3 series Adds a Turbo Four and Hatchback
Wednesday, December 25, 2013
Jaguar XJ8 L Review
Although major revisions (through the X300 and partcicularly, the X308 updates) kept Mk 2 competitive in some areas against its rivals, the basic design and "difficult point" of the Mk 2 dated from 1986, which means the car will soon be defeated and lose ground to its competitors, many of them are now two generations of MK 2 XJ. For example, since the Mk 2 was inaugurated in 1986 at the same time with the BMW Series 2 Mk 7 (e32), BMW has since launched Mk 3 (E38) and Mk 4 (E65) version 7 Series in 1994 and 2001 respectively - while still producing Jaguar Mk 2 XJ.
In September 2002, a new third generation XJ (known as X350) arrived in showrooms. While the exterior and interior car styling traditional in appearance, the car has been completely redesigned. The new car also saw the return of the legendary XJ6 badge, and with it 6-cylinder power, albeit in a V-configuration.
Design and Engineering
Like the Audi A8, X350 chassis and body made of aluminum. While some steel is used in some parts of the chassis, X350 has an aluminum monocoque / chassis similar in general design of a conventional steel structure, but with two differences: the underbody components are bonded with aerospace grade epoxy adhesives while about 3,200 self-piercing rivets are used to create new XJ monocoque. A conventional steel welded body. Interestingly, different construction methods of the Audi A8 X350 used to, but both methods are considered advanced.
By itself, the body XJ now weighs almost the same with a contemporary Mini. If the car is made of steel, it is estimated that it would weigh 40% more.
Some of the features that distinguish the X350 style of the previous XJ include external lighting, which is larger than the inner light, and the wheels are driven during the four corners of the car (due to an increased wheelbase) good as the original Mk 1 XJ. In addition, the X350 provides the third side window of his predecessors, back to the two side windows as the Mk 1. The curve of the back door like that of a Jaguar sedan in the 1950s and the 1960s.
Machine
V8 engine remains in the new model, but now revised and more powerful S-Type found in 2002. The 290 hp 4.0-liter and 4.0 liter turbocharged 370 Bhp from the X308 Mk II were replaced by the S-Type 4.2 liter 300 hp and 400 hp 4.2-liter supercharged units respectively, while 3, 5-liter V8 also introduced new . Derived from the 3.2-liter engine the previous model, producing 265 hp.
The 240 hp 3.2-liter V8 from the previous model is replaced by a 240 hp 3.0-liter V6 of the Type-X and S-Type. XJ6 V6 power, while the XJ8 is powered by a V8 naturally aspirated. XJR is powered by a 4.0-liter V8. The XJ6 X350 is the only model not sold in America.
2005 also saw the first introduction of the Jaguar XJ diesel, a notion unthinkable a few years ago and which still causes Consten model among fans of traditional owners and Jaguar. With the same Ford-Peugeot-developed 2.7-liter V6 twin-turbo unit in the S-Type, the engine produces 204 hp and 321 lb-ft of torque. Tdvi called the XJ, this model often touted not only as the most powerful diesel against rivals from the same power, but also the best diesel car in the world.
Summary
Despite concerns that some critics "that the XJ style is dated, the general consensus is that the X350 is a car with an efficient handling of a strong and attractive, smooth ride and powerful engines, especially diesel and V8 engines.
XJ high-end branded as Vanden Plas (in North America) and Daimler (elsewhere).
Super V8 model is the fastest and most expensive, with the XJR a close second. Super V8, which began in model year 2004 in the new X350 body style, is essentially a long wheelbase, supercharged XJ8. The main competitor is the Mercedes-Benz S55 AMG. A metal mesh grid and distinctive chrome mirrors set the Super V8 and the XJR apart from the less expensive XJ sedan.
All North American XJ is supported by a 300 HP (224 kW) naturally aspirated engines. A 400 hp (298 kW) supercharged 4.2-liter V8 is optional. Valvetrain has a dual overhead cam design with four valves per cylinder. Top speed is limited electronically.
In early 2005, Jaguar announced the sedans most exclusive, powerful and expensive, as stopping the production of V12 XJ. Called the 2006 Super V8 Portfolio is a limited edition trim level of the flagship Super V8 sedan. He made his debut at New York International Auto in March 2005, and a Jaguar sedan produced the most expensive to date, with a base price of U.S. $ 115,995. Portfolio features added power as well as exterior and interior improvements, including a DVD player and 7 inch screens in the rear head restraints. Super V8 Portfolio, aimed at U.S. and Canadian markets, became available in August 2005. It is available in two new limited colors: black cherry and gold winter. Equivalent models sold under the brand name Daimler Super Eight and Daimler in the European and international markets.
Super V8 Portfolio is powered by Jaguars supercharged 400 hp 4.2 L 32-valve, AJ-V8. The maximum speed of 155 mph and has a portfolio of time from 0 to 60 mph in five seconds acceleration.
2012 Hyundai Elantra Review
Toyota Matrix Price 19 275
Tuesday, December 24, 2013
Chevrolet Camaro 2012
Equipment and extras of Chevrolet Camaro 2012
- Alloy wheels 20 “
- Rear View Camera
- Air conditioning with pollen filter
- Audio control on the steering wheel
- Radio CD MP3 compatible integrated
- Auxiliary audio jack
- 9 Speaker System
- Bluetooth Kit
- Rear parking sensor
- ABS brakes with EBD
- Electronic control of trajectory
- Xenon high intensity
- Gear knob and leather-wrapped steering wheel
- Leather and imitation leather
Chevrolet Camaro 2012 News
Chevrolet Camaro 2012
IMPA Test Days Part II
Welcome back to The Garage for coverage of day two of the International Motoring Press Associations annual Test Days event, held in the beautiful New York Catskill Mountains. Whereas on day one we were free to drive the surrounding roads of our home base, Monticello Motor Club, today it was all about taking to the race track, and access to a rigorous off-road course.
When taking to a race track, I generally prefer to go with something on the mild side to get used to the track. In this case I picked a MINI Cooper Roadster. Dogged with an automatic tranny and not enough power to get you into any sort of trouble, the MINI was ideal to acclimate myself to the track. Satisfied, I turned my sites to something a with more bark-the BMW Alpina B7. Under the hood lies a 4.4L twin turbo V-8 cranking out 500hp. On the track, you are aware of the B7s size and weight, but she is seriously fast. A 2013 Ford Mustang GT hit the track with a 30 second lead in front of me, and I caught up to it.
I did sample a V-6 powered Mustang for the first time. I dont mind Mustangs at all on the street, but Ive driven Mustangs on a race track a few times now, and each time I am reminded how awful these cars perform on a track. No confidence in these cars at all, with twitchy handling and not nearly enough steering communication.
Yes, driving flat out on a race track is great fun, but slogging along at 5mph on an intense off-road course if equally exhilarating. For starters, I was given a ride in a Land Rover LR3 with an off-road expert to familiarize myself with the course. Once done, I surveyed the trucks available to us, and settled on the Nissan Frontier. The Nissans smaller size and off-road package seemed like a safe pick for my first run. The Frontier was an ace at the difficult course, but after riding in the Land Rover, the Frontier felt primitive and very basic. After the Nissan I went for the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, which was positively amazing. All in all a fantastic course with some extremely capable vehicles.
Having satiated my urge to go off-road, it was time to get back on the track. I made my way to where Porsche was stationed. Sure, there was a wait, but I put my name in to track the all-new Porsche Boxster S and the 911 Carrera S. After a wait, it was time to hop in the Boxster. With the other cars, I was on my own on the track, but Porsche had driving coaches on board, with the intent to make us push the cars harder and go faster. So upon hopping in the Boxster, I am greeted by Andrew Davis, who races a Porsche 911 GT3 in the Rolex Grand Am series for Brumos Porsche. Thats right, a Grand Am driver is riding shotgun, giving me tips on how to maximize a Boxster on a race track! The Boxster feels fabulous and unflappable-very easy to drive fast and incredibly forgiving.
Next up was the latest Porsche 911, a car that holds a lot of meaning to me as I own one myself. I was nearly beside myself when I climbed in to find none other than David Donohue, Daytona 24 winner and son of the legendary Mark Donohue sitting in the passenger seat. I quickly informed David that I was about to turn in a truly awful lap as I tried to process the racing goodness seated beside me. In the Boxster, Andrew was pretty laid back, but in the 911, it was totally different riding with David. And it was awesome. David let me in on the racers mindset. How far ahead you are looking-even two corners ahead of myself. And he pushed me-when I wanted to back off on throttle, he insisted I go all in. The 911 is radically different from the Boxster, and David had me pushing the car hard enough I was getting sideways in a $100,000 car without breaking a sweat. Some people say if you havent scared the crap out of yourself, you werent going fast enough. With ace racer David Donohue as my co-pilot, I can safely say he pushed me to my limit, and the tail-heavy 911 as well. Its an experience I will treasure for life.
And on that note, that concludes my coverage of the 2012 IMPA Test Days event. I was able to sample some of the most remarkable vehicles on the market in gorgeous settings on bucolic country roads, fantastic race track and challenging off-road course. Thanks for joining us in our coverage, and we look forward to Test Days in 2013.
Related posts:
- IMPA Test Days 2012: Part I
- IMPA Test Days 2011 Wrap Up
- IMPA Test Days: Day 2 on the track
- IMPA Test Days: Track Day
- IMPA Test Days: An overview
Alfa Romeo Disco Volante Touring Concept 2012
- Alfa Romeo Disco Volante Touring Concept, 2012
The Disco Volante 2012 by Touring Superleggera, designed as a two-seater coupé with front-central engine and transaxle drivetrain, was presented at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show in the form of a full scale style model. The car will be produced as a very limited series for discerning customers: collectors, sporting drivers and design aficionados with appreciation for a tailor-made car based on individual passion and taste.
There exist very few models that rouse fascination like the Alfa Romeo C52 Disco Volante. The briefing at Carrozzeria Touring in 1952 mentioned the need for a shape that was insensitive to wind. The unique basic design, featuring an oval cross section, evolved in different versions, and was even registered as design patent.
Using Alfa Romeo 1900 C elements, the car received a new aluminium crankcase, a new tubular chassis, and a very light, striking and efficient aluminium body.
Initially aimed at races in the Sport category, the C52 Disco Volante soon reached the status of design icon. It is one of the most important models in the history of Touring, so innovative that it influenced the automotive design for decades. It also is one of the best examples to illustrate the credo of Tourings founder Felice Bianchi Anderloni "Il peso è il nemico, la resistenza dellaria è lostacolo" (weight is the enemy, air resistance the obstacle).
So significant is the Disco Volante in the history of automobile design, that Alfa Romeo has chosen this Touring design to celebrate its own 100th anniversary with a bronze sculpture now exhibited in Milan.
Design
The Disco Volante 2012 design briefing required to blend ingredients as innovation, emotion and aerodynamic properties into a timeless and essential shape. The design language is that of a sports berlinetta by Touring, in this case extrovert, clearly pronounced, and tempting.
The integrated front bonnet and wings result in a dramatic monolithic frontal area, while the pronounced muscular rear end treatment leaves no doubts about the cars intentions. The overall teardrop shape reflects classic volumes with respect for aerodynamic values.
Hints to the past can be found in subtle details, when aesthetical solutions were judged to be congruent with the new design. These include the pronounced waist line underlined by the aluminium profile, the partly covered front wheels, and the prolonged lines of the rear section ending with round shaped tail lights.
The final result is a rear-oriented design, with an extended rear overhang, a retracted greenhouse, and a limited front overhang. It combines power and elegance, integrating a balance between potent and fluid lines and the use of refined proportions in the best Touring tradition.
Rolling Chassis
The hard points of the Disco Volante 2012 are dictated by the Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione chassis, chosen for its light and rigid structure and the outstanding dynamic properties. It forms the perfect basis to receive the totally new, coach built bodywork conserving integrally the rolling chassis and drivetrain.
The front-central engine, transaxle transmission and rear wheel drive layout offers an optimal weight distribution of 49-51% between the front and rear axles.
The steel space-frame is engineered for weight reduction and improved torsional stiffness.
Further feature for top class handling is the front and rear double-wishbone suspension scheme combined with hub carriers of forged aluminium, and additional trailing arms for the rear suspension.
The light and compact V8 engine with 4.7 litre displacement delivers 450 PS and 470Nm peak torque. It is coupled to a 6-speed sequential transaxle gearbox with electronic control and paddle-shift gear selection. A limited slip differential and a state-of-the-art brake system with large diameter, ventilated discs complete the package to endorse precise, dynamic and proactive drive.
The Disco Volante 2012 is a tribute to the best Italian sports car philosophy: refined mechanics dressed with light and exciting bodywork.
Manufacturing Process
Prior to any construction phase at Touring, every new component is CAD designed and documented. The meticulous engineering programme covers feasibility, safety, homologation, aerodynamics and structural analysis. In this process, the most advanced IT tools and simulation techniques are used. Special attention is paid to the underbody structure, a critical factor for quality, torsional stiffness and noise reduction.
Touring has preserved and developed the use of hand-beaten aluminium panels. Today, this traditional way of shaping body parts responds not only to the design requirements, but also to the strictest precision standard.
The weight advantage of aluminium is one of the assets of Touring Superleggeras construction methods. However, carbon fibre is used for specific components such as bumpers and a number of substructures for further weight saving and strength gains.
The entire manufacturing process is fully documented and digitally logged, to guarantee consistent quality levels and accurate reproduction.
3-dimensional reference and measurement tools are used to ensure the highest precision in the assembly stage. Many key detail components and ornaments are entirely manufactured by hand.
The original 8C interior is basically maintained, but modified and upgraded according to the personal preferences and taste of the customer - as an exponent of Tourings automotive tailoring philosophy.
Each unit requires more than 4,000 hours of highly skilled artisan and engineer work to be completed.
The delivery time for a Disco Volante 2012 is eight months after the reception of the donor vehicle.