Monthly Archives: September 2009

The Volvo for golfers everywhere

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volvo golf cart 01

Fore! Here is Volvo Cars’ first production car ever to run on electricity. What is more, it’s pretty capable off-road.
The C70-inspired Volvo Golf Cart is recharged overnight and can be driven sixty kilometres on a single charge.

Lower weight with one seat

Most golf carts are two-seaters. Not the Volvo Golf Cart, which has just one seat. It is thus much lighter than its competitors are.

It is an exact scaled-down version of the C70. The colour is Electric Silver. An accompanying tow-hook makes it possible to tow a small trailer.

In addition to golf courses, the cart can be used in recreation facilities and for light transport duties at shows and trade fairs, for instance.

volvo golf cart 02

FACTS, VOLVO GOLF CART

  • Weighs 220 kilo. The three twelve-volt batteries, which weight 75 kg, are charged overnight. The range is about 60 kilometres.
  • Can carry 125 kg. Max speed is 15 km/h.
  • Steel chassis, reversing alarm and brakes automatically when the driver releases the accelerator.
  • Estimated to cost between 55,000 and 60,000 kronor.
  • Marketed and sold by Pro Grandiose Car Corporation in Dubai. The company has a licence agreement with Volvo Cars, giving it the right to use the Volvo name and shape on the golf cart.

Source: Volvo

BMW’s new USB device

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bmw USB

BMW has released a new gadget for its tech-savvy aficionados.

The eight gigabyte USB memory stick, in the shape of a genuine BMW key, is the perfect gift for BMW fans young and old.

The sophisticated design includes a feature whereby pressing the boot button on the USB memory stick ejects and retracts the USB node.

Users can store their music collection on the stick and play it back via their BMW’s USB audio interface.

The BMW memory stick can also be used to transfer a music collection from the “key” to any BMW equipped with a hard drive via the USB port.

It can also be used in a similar manner to other memory sticks, to transfer data to and from computers – but in much better style.

The memory stick comes in a stylish presentation box and includes a black removable strap.

The BMW 8 gigabyte USB memory stick is available from authorised BMW dealers. The ideal gift for everyone retails for $59 (Australian)

Source: BMW

Cars.co.za revamp incoming

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cars

Cars.co.za will be undergoing a complete overhaul and revamp in the next few months; from the image, design and look of the site, to the structure and inner-workings of the database. We aim to create a site that simultaneously caters to the user looking to purchase a vehicle as well as an accurate and comprehensive database of vehicles for the car dealership.

If you have any suggestions or ideas on what you like or don’t like about the site please feel free to comment with your suggestions.

Sixth generation Golf and GTI unveiled

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2010 vw golf 1

NEW YORK — The all-new Golf and GTI made their U.S. debut at the 2009 New York International Auto Show. Both vehicles feature an all-new exterior design, improved interior refinements and the sixth generation Golf comes to the U.S. market with the option of the award winning 2.0 TDI clean diesel engine.

With a simple, universal, and unmistakable look, the exterior of the Golf and its hot hatch sibling GTI offer a modern version of the classic original. On sale in the U.S. in fall of 2009, they bring to the market a refined and sporty appearance and industry leading powertrains that provides power and style in a versatile and efficient package.

2010 vw golf interior 1

For 2010, the Golf will feature the optional 2.0 TDI clean diesel engine, which produces 140-horsepower at 4000 rpm and an impressive 236 lbs.-ft. of torque between 1750 and 2500 rpm, bringing a no compromises alternative fuel driving experience to the all new Golf.

A perennial award winner, the GTI keeps the options that make it Volkswagen’s uber-hatchback while providing an updated look that redefines the classic hot hatch. The 2.0-liter FSI turbocharged four-cylinder engine comes standard with 200 horsepower and and 207 lbs.-ft. of torque; with the standard six-speed transmission or the optional six-speed DSG dual clutch transmission it proves to be more than capable at bringing the thrill to the daily commute.

Volkswagen has upped the ante with the interior refinement in the Golf and GTI. The Golf’s surfaces and features challenge the class distinctions of a small car, both to the touch and visually. The appearance and layout of materials leave the impression that one is actually sitting in a car of a much higher segment. The Golf and GTI continue to highlight Volkswagen’s commitment to offer affordable German engineered cars that are fun-to-drive.

2010 vw tdi 1

Source: VolksWagen

Mercedes Benz New E-Class Successfully Launched

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Mercedes Benz E class

Stuttgart – The new E-Class has gotten off to a very successful start, with more than 40,000 units delivered to customers since the market introduction in April 2009. Mercedes-Benz expects sales of the new E-Class to receive a further boost in the coming months from the vehicle’s introduction in key markets including the U.S. and China and the launch of the new estate in October 2009.

The new E-Class models have outstanding fuel economy. The sedan’s four- and six-cylinder engines have direct injection systems and consume far less fuel than their predecessors despite their greater output. This month also marked the sales release of two new four-cylinder engines, which combine higher fuel efficiency with the level of driving comfort that is typical of Mercedes-Benz.

The special characteristics of the new E-Class include not only a high level of environmental friendliness, but also a unique combination of driver assistance systems. Approximately a dozen different assistance systems are available to customers, including new Mercedes-Benz developments such as Lane Keeping Assist and Night View Assist. These technologies make the E-Class a “thinking” partner that can not only see, feel, and respond to dangers by means of its “reflexes,” but also act independently to prevent accidents or minimize their effects.

“In South Africa, since the cars have reached the showroom floors of our dealerships, we have received an overwhelming response from traditional Mercedes-Benz E-Class customers as well as owners of other premium luxury vehicles. Despite the current economic situation, the initial demand is higher than our current allocation, and we are building an order book which grow further once the four-cylinder vehicles are available,” says Eckart Mayer, Divisional Manager, Mercedes-Benz Cars.

The new E-Class is the successor of an internationally successful Mercedes-Benz model. About 1.5 million sedans and estates of that predecessor model, the 211 series, have been delivered to customers since its market launch six years ago. Over the past 60 years, the eight generations of the E-Class sedan have thrilled ten million customers worldwide, making it the most successful business sedan in the world.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

New Toyota Verso – A multi-purpose vehicle without compromise

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Toyota Verso1

The new Toyota Verso combines true multi-purpose vehicle practicality and flexibility with the comfort and driving performance of a passenger vehicle.

The first generation Corolla Verso launched in 2002, and the second generation model that followed in 2004, were both heavily influenced by contemporary passenger vehicles. This latest model has been given the designation C-MPV by Toyota to underscore the Verso’s increased independence as a vehicle in its own right, rather than a simple extension of a passenger car range.

With its flexible seating configuration for up to seven occupants the new Verso is set to continue where the old one left off as a vehicle of choice for the family unit. It is not surprising then that it is this sector that is likely to account for the majority of sales. The new Verso is however also expected to meet the needs of ‘empty nesters’ that look to the attributes of a dynamic multi-purpose vehicle to support their active lifestyles.

Toyota Verso2

With the introduction of the new Verso comes an extension of the range from three to four variants with the option of diesel power for the first time in South Africa. Toyota’s Optimal Drive technology features across the range of petrol and diesel derivatives and offers an increase in power of up to 20% together with reductions in CO2 emissions and fuel economy of up to 12% compared to the older generation engines. The 1.6 litre and 1.8 litre petrol engines boast Toyota’s state-of-the art Valvematic technology

The new Verso also offers class leading occupant and pedestrian safety features. At the heart of this is a highly rigid, impact absorbing body shell incorporating a large percentage of high tensile steel. The new Verso has been engineered to fulfil the stringent Euro NCAP 5-star safety criteria.

Toyota Verso3

Source: Toyota

Ford Ranger Offers New Advancements For 2009

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The Ford Ranger has been a popular choice in the one-tonne market for over 25 years. For 2009 the Ford Ranger line-up will be further enhanced with new styling features, and an upgraded interior.

ford 1

The new Ranger has undergone extensive development under extremely severe testing conditions by engineering teams at proving grounds throughout the world, to confirm its Built Ford Tough heritage.

In design terms, the 2009 Ranger has been enhanced with an even more muscular and distinctive look. The horizontal three-bar grille embossed with Ranger lettering, the functional twin black vertical nostrils, the new hood and power dome design and the large headlamps that wrap around each front corner effectively establish a new design benchmark for the one-tonne segment. It is a fresh transformation that highlights perfectly the strong character of Ranger.

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The interior ambiance has also been updated. The instrument panel now features the contemporary and relaxing appeal of red illumination of its three large, individual gauges – each set within its own binnacle – ensuring excellent visibility day and night and also giving the Ranger’s interior a dynamic feel.

The Ford Ranger is available in 4×2 and 4×4 drivetrains. The popular Ranger 4×2 Hi-Trail offers a unique combination, being 4×2 and using the robust components and the higher ground clearance of a 4×4, it offers a great deal of versatility.

ford 3

Single Cab, Super Cab and Double Cab models continue to be on offer. The Super Cab is a unique four-door system providing freer access to the cabin by featuring two forward-hinged doors and two rear-hinged access panels. The Super Cab provides unobstructed access to the spacious interior for ease of entry and cargo loading and an uncompromised side-impact safety structure that replaces the centre pillar of a traditional Double Cab.

The Ranger has become known for its true 4×4 capabilities, its 1.8 tonne towing capabilities and its payload, which is in excess of one tonne. Whether at work or at play the Ranger is perfectly equipped for the task.

-Source: Ford

2010 MAZDASPEED3: Taking sibling rivalry to the extreme

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2010 MAZDASPEED3 AT A GLANCE:

mazda3


Exterior

  • Design based on the all-new MAZDA3 5-Door, evolved for a sportier, more aggressive appearance
  • New air intake to optimize intercooler efficiency
  • Front fender and front bumper designs exclusive to MAZDASPEED
  • The front grille and lower bumper sections share the same black metallic paint finish
  • Wedge-shaped, curving character lines on the side panels and side under spoiler for a lower-looking center of gravity
  • New, large floating rear spoiler
  • New 18-inch aluminum alloy wheels with the same three-dimensional design theme as the Mazda RX-8 R3 wheels

Interior

  • Driver-oriented dashboard design gives a roomy, wrap-around, sporty feel
  • New tachometer with red MAZDASPEED logo
  • New LED turbo boost gauge between the driver meters
  • Semi-bucket front seats with superior fit
  • Seat upholstery in black base color with a red graphic design and red stitching
  • Black interior color with an organic red graphic design throughout the cabin and red stitching for the steering wheel, shift boot, door trim, center console

Powertrain

  • Acclaimed MZR 2.3L DISI Turbo producing high power of 263 horsepower at 5,500 rpm, and 280 ft.-lb. of torque at 3,000 rpm
  • In-cylinder cooling effect from direct injection realizes ca. 10 percent more torque compared to conventional-intake turbo engines
  • Top speed of 155 mph
  • The world’s first single-nanotechnology catalytic converter helps to reduce the amount of precious metals needed
  • Advanced boost pressure control suppresses sudden torque peaks for linear torque development
  • Left and right drive shafts optimized to minimize torque steer
  • Torque-sensing conical limited-slip differential (LSD) standard
  • Specially-designed, 6-speed manual transmission with wider gear ratio than before
  • Triple-cone synchronizers for first, second and third gears and a double-cone synchronizer for fourth gear for optimized gearshift operation
  • Low-viscosity transmission fluid reduces shift effort when the engine is cold

Chassis & Safety

  • Special reinforcements inside the front cowl member gussets and a large tunnel member for increased body stiffness
  • Modified coil spring rates for MacPherson strut front suspension and multi-link rear suspension
  • Larger diameter stabilizers with longer mount spans achieve greater roll linearity
  • Special dampers with increased damping strength contribute to higher roll stiffness
  • Now three highly rigid steering gear mount bushings instead of two used on the previous model for improved response to steering wheel action
  • New wider Dunlop 18-inch tires with improved grip, more rigid sidewalls and damping strength for more direct steering feel and a stronger one-with-the-car feel
  • Electro-hydraulic power assisted steering (EHPAS)
  • Large diameter 12.6-inch ventilated front disc brakes and 11-inch rear solid discs, 8+9-inch tandem brake booster and 1-inch large diameter master cylinder for powerful and stable braking
  • Newly-introduced electronic brake assist added to four-wheel ABS and DSC as standard equipment

-Source: Mazda Media