“As the inventor of the motor car, we wanted to illustrate the vision of the perfect vehicle of the future, which is created and functions in complete symbiosis with nature. The Mercedes-Benz BIOME is a natural technology hybrid, and forms part of our earth’s ecosystem. It grows and thrives like the leaves on a tree,” according to Hubert Lee, Head of the Mercedes-Benz Advanced Design Studios in Carlsbad. This year the competition had called for the creation of a vision of a safe and comfortable 2+2 compact car featuring good handling and a first-class design, and weighing only 1,000 lbs (around 454 kg/kerb weight).

Mercedes-Benz symbiosis – a partnership with nature

The Mercedes-Benz BIOME symbiosis vehicle is made from an ultralight material called BioFibre and tips the scales at just 875.5 lbs (around 394 kg). This material is significantly lighter than metal or plastic, yet more robust than steel. BioFibre is grown from proprietary DNA in the Mercedes-Benz nursery, where it collects energy from the sun and stores it in a liquid chemical bond called BioNectar4534.As part of this process, the vehicle is created from two seeds: The interior of theBIOME grows from the DNA in the Mercedes star on the front of the vehicle, while the exterior grows from the star on the rear. To accommodate specific customer requirements, the Mercedes star is genetically engineered in each case, and the vehicle “grows” when the genetic code is combined with the seed capsule. The wheels are grown from four separate seeds.

The Mercedes-Benz BIOME is powered by BioNectar4534, which is stored in the BioFibre material of the chassis, interior, and wheels. In addition, Mercedes-Benz has developed a technology to equip trees with special receptors which can collect the excess solar energy and turn it into BioNectar4534. This creates a direct link with nature’s energy sources and acts as an incentive to cover mobility energy requirements through more trees and at the same time maintain natural resources. Like plants, the Mercedes-Benz symbiosis vehicle also produces oxygen, thereby contributing to improving air quality. At the end of its service life, the Mercedes-Benz BIOME can be fully composted or used as building material. Thanks to the exclusive use of green technologies, the BIOME vehicle thus blends seamlessly into the ecosystem.

Volvo believe they can bring you this very vehicle. During Los Angeles Auto Show a scale model of this car – Volvo Air Motion – will be on display, participating in the Design Challenge Competition.

Tipping the scales at under 1,000lbs, the Volvo Air Motion Concept is designed like a clam shell and sculpted from ultra light carbon fibre. Minimising weight and complexity, while maximising driving enjoyment, is the philosophy behind this vehicle. Thousands fewer components are employed than in a traditional car thanks to the powerful yet simple compressed air motors that replace a heavy internal combustion engine. The motors cool down under load rather than heat up, thus removing the need for heavy cooling systems. An integrated approach to designing the chassis, interior and suspension also contribute significantly.

To compress the air needed for the centrally mounted air tank, Air Replenishment Sites are used. Powered by air turbines floating 1,000ft in the air they harness the power of the wind and convert it to electricity to provide the compression.

Aimed at the driving enthusiast, by a company synonymous with safety and environmental care, the Volvo Air Motion demonstrates the beauty and purity of Scandinavian design and delivers a guilt free, raw driving experience.

A 1/4 scale model will be displayed in the display area of the concourse that connects the South and West Halls at LA Auto Show. It will be on display during all press and public days. Press days Nov. 17-18 Public Days Nov. 19-28. Volvo Air Motion has been developed at Volvo Monitoring and Concept Center (VMCC) that opened in 1986. VMCC is situated in Camarillo, California. VMCC Air Motion Team: Chris Benjamin, Dean Bakker, Steve Goodrich, Bjorn Wessman, Doug Frasher, Dean Shaw and Geza Loczi.

The LA Auto Show Design Challenge

Each year for the past seven years, a topical theme is chosen and the major Southern California automotive design studios are invited to compete in the Design Challenge. For the first time studios from Germany and Japan will join the competition adding an international dimension to the contest. The highly anticipated challenge allows studios to flex their creativity and explore new ideas in automotive design.

The theme this year addresses society’s shift toward minimizing consumption of the earth’s resources. The objective is to envision an efficient, light-weight, four passenger vehicle (not to exceed 1,000 lbs.), that is both comfortable and safe, while delivering satisfactory driving performance without sacrificing the styling consumers demand.

Matsumoto-San, 47, is a veteran engineer with years of management experience in product development. He joined Mazda in 1985 working for the Test and Research Department No. 2 in Japan, and went on to a stellar career as Manager and General Manager in the NVH Development Department. His last job before coming to Europe was General Manager for Chassis Development. He holds a degree in technology from the Kyoto University.

“I want to welcome Hiroyuki Matsumoto to this vital position,” said Jeff Guyton, President and CEO Mazda Motor Europe, “and to thank Norihiro Tomita for the great job he did leading our R & D and Design Team these last three years. I’m certain that Matsumoto-San, like his predecessor, will be a great asset to my management team. His experience in product planning, development and certification will ensure that our vehicles continue to exceed the expectations of European drivers.”

“We are very happy about this development,” says Bart Crols, Managing Director at Volvo Cars Belgium. “The all-new Volvo S60 sports sedan is Volvo’s most exciting driving experience so far and there is no better way to show this than by bringing it to the race track. Volvo and the all-new S60 have a special place in the people’s hearts here as several Volvo models, including the new S60, are built in Belgium at theVolvo Cars Ghent plant.”

The new Volvo S60 race car has been developed in record time locally by Volvo’s Belgian S60 Racing Team. It has been developed in accordance with the BTCS Silhouette S1 regulations which put a major emphasis on standardised features. All cars must use a tubular chassis, the same type of front and rear suspension and aerodynamics. A uniform type of engine specification is also available but manufacturers are allowed to use own engines.

The Volvo S60 Racing Team will also operate the car at all BTCS races and the drivers are Vincent Radermecker and Eric Van De Poele.

Its maiden track test will take place on April 1 (today) on the Belgian Zolder track.

“It has been a hectic period, but we have received great assistance from Volvo Cars’ Motorsport department” says Thomas Neri, Team Manager for the Volvo S60 Racing Team. He continues: “Our main objective is to get up to speed and to compete well in the various heats. Next season we hope to put our own in-house developed engine in the car.”

BTCS – low cost, high-performance racing

The BTCS is an endurance racing championship with six competitions on tracks such as Spa-Francorchamps, Zolder and Dijon. Each race consists of two 90-minute heats and there is also one 12-hour race in Spa. The all-new Volvo S60 will face intense competition from the likes of BMW, Audi, Jaguar and VW. BTCS has grown rapidly in terms of both competing brands and numbers thanks to its low-cost, high-performance combination and, not least, the fact that the cars have considerable visual appeal. The race series is televised in several countries and is gaining in popularity.

“We will support and follow our development in this series very closely as several other national championships are considering similar standardised regulations in the future,” says Derek Crabb, Motorsport Director at the Volvo Car Corporation. “This BTCS campaign will give us a good understanding of what these types of regulations can mean for Volvo.”

Technical Specification Volvo S60 BTCS

Regulation: BTCS Silhouette S1

Chassis: Tubular frame

Front Suspension: Independent with 3-way adjustable shock absorbers

Rear Suspension: Independent with 3-way onboard adjustable shock absorbers

Brakes: 6-piston callipers, 380 mm discs at the front and 6-piston callipers, 355 mm discs at the rear
Engine: Mid-mounted standardised 3500 cc V6
Engine Power Output: 410 hp with 412 Nm at 5500rpm
Gearbox: Six-speed sequential. Rear-wheel drive
Wheels: 10″ X 18″ front and 12″ X 18″ rear
Tyres: Michelin 27/65/18 front and Michelin 30/65/18 rear

2010 Racing Calendar for the all-new Volvo S60 in the BTCS series

April 9-11                             Zolder

April 30-May 2                      Dijon-Prenois

June 4-6                               Spa-Francorchamps

July 9-10                              Spa-Francorchamps

September 17-19                  Spa-Francorchamps

October 8-10                        Zolder

The jury based its decision on the BMW Group’s focus on Efficient Dynamics, a vision for its products in which sustainability plays a pivotal role. Deciding factors for the panel of judges were the BMW Group’s achievements to date in cutting fuel consumption in their vehicles through innovations in engines and transmissions, Brake Energy Regeneration, Auto Start/Stop, the successful trial fleet of MINI E electric cars, as well as ongoing research and development towards further innovations in this area. Dr Christoph Grote, Head of Strategy and Innovations Total Vehicle at the BMW Group, said as he accepted the award in Berlin: “Our products stand for innovation. But our focus is on innovations that offer the customer – and the public at large – a clearly recognisable benefit. We are very proud to play a leading role in the campaign to reduce fuel consumption. In the last two years alone we achieved bigger cuts in vehicle fuel consumption than any other European car manufacturer. With a fleet value for Germany of 156 g/km in 2009, we even undercut volume producers in terms of absolute figures.”

In 2009, A.T. Kearney awarded the accolade of “Best Innovator” to exceptionally innovative companies in 12 countries around the globe. The award in the sustainability category went to companies whose vision of innovations to make the company, its environments and markets increasingly sustainable was judged to play a central role.

Christoph Grote: “Sustainability isn’t a buzzword for the BMW Group but is deeply anchored in the corporate strategy, and therefore its innovation strategy. We did not achieve our positive results in reducing fuel consumption through short-term, isolated actions, but on the basis of an early and enduring commitment to the issue of sustainability.”

Comprising the core jury of the 2009 “Best Innovator” competition were Dagmar Wöhrl, former Parliamentary Secretary of State in the German Ministry of Economics and Technology, Hans-Jörg Bullinger, President of the Fraunhofer Institute, Roland Tichy, editor of WirtschaftsWoche, and Kai Engel, partner at A.T. Kearney. There were more than 100 competition entrants and all were assessed according to the innovation aspects of each company’s strategy, organisation and culture, life cycle management, enabling factors, and economic success. It was the second award for the BMW Group, which had already been voted “Best Innovator” in 2004, as well as taking the “Best Innovation Strategy” award.

• The Continental Supersports Convertible is the fastest, most potent drop-top Bentley ever built – 0-60mph in just 3.9 seconds (0-100km/h in 4.2 seconds) and a top speed of 202mph (325km/h). It is also the fastest four-seat convertible in the world.
• The Supersports is the extreme Bentley convertible, offering a highly focussed, pure Bentley driving experience.
• Muscular styling reflects the Supersports Convertible’s supercar personality with the practicality and elegance of four-seat accommodation.
• The standardisation of pioneering FlexFuel technology across the 2011 Continental model range reaffirms Bentley’s on-going environmental commitment to make all its cars biofuel-compatible by 2012.

The Continental Supersports Convertible further strengthens Bentley’s supercar range, following the introduction of the Continental Supersports Coupé in 2009. The new Supersports Convertible, with the same 630PS (621bhp/463kW) twin-turbocharged W12 engine, is the fastest, most potent drop‑top Bentley has ever built, offering the ultimate Bentley driving experience in the world’s most dramatic convertible.

The inspiration for the ‘Supersports’ name is the 1925 Bentley Supersports, a race-bred version of the iconic Bentley 3-litre, that delivered 85bhp when more ordinary cars were equipped with a modest 15bhp. It was also the first production car to reach 100mph – extreme performance in its day.

The new, muscular four-seat Supersports Convertible is unmistakably Bentley in its design and craftsmanship but its interiorsignifies a dramatic re-interpretation of Bentley luxury. Satin-finished carbon fibre,Alcantara^™and ‘Soft Grip’ leather create a unique ambience with a distinctly sporting and contemporary style.

All models in the Continental model range, including the new Supersports Convertible are now capable of running on both petrol (gasoline) and E85 bioethanol or any combination of the two, reaffirming Bentley’s ongoing commitment to make all its cars bio-fuel compatible by 2012. Pioneered by the Supersports Coupe, this FlexFuel technology offers a reduction of up to 70 per cent in CO₂ emissions on a ‘well-to-wheel’ basis, a measure of a fuel’s net contribution to the atmosphere, not just tailpipe emissions.

To ensure seamless power delivery, the on-board fuel supply system detects the blending ratio of the fuel in the tank and ensures that power and torque remain constant regardless of the ratio of petrol to biofuel.

Bentley Chairman and Chief Executive Dr Franz-Josef Paefgen welcomes the new addition to the Bentley range, as well as the standardisation of the FlexFuel W12 engine on all 2011 Continental models:

“The new Supersports Convertible blends thrilling performance and dramatic styling with luxury and practicality in the Bentley open-top tradition. Extreme power combines with pioneering FlexFuel technology, now shared with all Continental models, reflecting Bentley’s ongoing commitment to more environmental motoring.”

THE NEW CONTINENTAL SUPERSPORTS – AT A GLANCE

The fastest, most potent drop-top Bentley ever

• 6-litre W12 engine twin-turbocharged engine produces 630PS (621bhp/463kW) at 6000 rev/min and 800Nm (590lb ft) of torque at 2000-4500 rev/min
• 0 – 60mph in 3.9 seconds (0-100km/h in 4.2 seconds)
• 0 -100mph in 9.6 seconds (0-160km/h in 9.5 seconds)
• Top speed of 202mph (325km/h)
• Overall weight saving of 90kg (198lb) versus GTC Speed

A highly focussed, extreme Bentley convertible driving experience

• Revised ZF 6HP26 transmission with ‘Quickshift’ system that cuts shift times by 50% and enables double downshifts
• New 40/60 rear-biased torque split for the all-wheel drive system reduces understeer when powering out of bends and provides for better modulation of line and attitude by ‘throttle steering’
• Retuned Continuous Damping Control (CDC) system, stiffer suspension bushes and uprated rear anti-roll bar benefit body control, steering response, turn-in and balance
• Increased 50mm rear track improves grip and stability
• Lightweight, 20-inch, 10-spoke alloy wheels offer 10kg (22lb) weight saving per car, reducing unsprung and rotating mass and improving brake cooling
• 275/35 ZR20 Pirelli Ultra High Performance tyres
• Advanced ESP system fully exploits potential of the most powerful W12 engine and improved chassis
• Standard-fit carbon-ceramic brakes provide fade-free braking and contribute a 20kg (44lb) reduction in rotating and unsprung mass from the front axle.

Muscular yet elegant styling with four-seat practicality

• Form follows function: distinctive centre air intake and vertical grilles feed larger volume of air (+ 10%) to turbocharger intercoolers while bonnet vents extract hot air from engine bay
• Subtly curved rear wheel arches with newly tooled side panels accommodate increased rear track of the uprated chassis and provide muscular stance
• Distinctive ‘smoked steel finish’ to all exterior ‘brightware’, including the first automotive application of ‘Physical Vapour Deposition’ to stainless steel
• Larger, twin elliptical exhaust tailpipes and rear valance with discreet vertical divider
• Fixed rear bootlid spoiler for improved aerodynamics
• Unique driver-focused, four-seat cabin
• Lightweight, carbon fibre, front sports seats, saving 45kg (99lb) per car
• Alcantara^™, carbon fibre and ‘Soft Grip’ leather provide a new interpretation of Bentley craftsmanship

The standardisation of FlexFuel capability across the 2011 Continental model range reaffirms Bentley’s on-going environmental commitment

• FlexFuel available on all 2011 Continental models, including the new Supersports Convertible, from June 2010 (all markets)
• All Continental models, are now capable of running on petrol and E85 biofuel or any combination of the two
• Power and torque remain constant whatever the ratio of petrol to E85 biofuel
• A Fuel Quality Sensor detects the blending ratio of the fuel in real time sending a signal to the engine control unit (ECU), initiating the correct engine mapping. This ensures all performance parameters remain balanced and consistent
• Offers a reduction in CO₂ emissions of up to 70% (well-to-wheel), a measure of a fuel’s net contribution to the atmosphere, not just tailpipe emissions

Enhanced choice for all Continental model range customers

• The full 2011 Continental range gets a host of new exterior and interior specification changes
• Six new colours are added to the Bentley palette (Citric, White Satin, Kingfisher, Magenta, Orange Flame and St James Red Pearl)
• Dark Grey Metallic Hood that is available on all Continental convertible including the new Supersports Convertible
• Automatic opening and closing Powerboot is included as standard on the new Continental Flying Spur and GTC models (not Supersports versions)
• A new cost option Premium Pack for the Flying Spur includes veneered picnic tables with vanity mirrors, a Mulliner alloy fuel filler cap and chrome inlay strips to the door waistrails
• Convenience Packs are available for all Continental models and include features such as Adaptive Cruise Control with ‘Follow to Stop’ feature, an iPod^™interface, front seat massage function, telephone handsets, rear-view camera and Valet key

THE CONTINENTAL SUPERSPORTS CONVERTIBLE – IN DETAIL

The new Continental Supersports Convertible is a car that must be driven to be fully understood. Behind the wheel it is immediately clear that a Supersports Bentley is a ‘fusion of extremes’ – the ultimate in extreme performance, every day practicality and unrivalled hand-crafted luxury.

Bentley’s Supersports programme began as an ‘under the radar’ project exploring the possibilities of weight reduction on the Continental GT Coupé but with more power and torque. The largely experimental project soon crystallised into an official new car programme, driven by the passion and enthusiasm of a small group of Bentley engineers and designers. Now the Supersports Convertible has received the same focus and the results are equally dramatic. Dr Ulrich Eichhorn, Member of the Board, Engineering explains the thinking behind the project:

“The ‘extreme’ Bentley stable now has a new occupant in the form of the Supersports Convertible – a car every bit as purposeful and potent as the Coupé but with the panache of roof-down motoring.”

A highly focussed, pure Bentley driving experience

With 630PS (621bhp) and 800Nm (590lb ft) of torque from its pioneering FlexFuel engine and new ‘Quickshift’ transmission, the Supersports Convertible is the fastest drop-top Bentley has ever built. It accelerates from 0-60mph in 3.9 seconds (0-100km/h in 4.2 seconds) and, conditions permitting, can continue onto a top speed of 202mph (325km/h).

The increased power and torque are transmitted to the all-wheel drive system via an uprated and rapid six-speed Quickshift transmission, which more than halves shift times (to just 93 milliseconds) and maximises the new Convertible’s enormous potential. The revised gearbox also has the ability to deliver double downshifts (sixth to fourth gear, for example) and improves acceleration across the entire gear range. To cope with the additional power and torque, the planetary gear set of the ZF transmission is also strengthened.

Positive torque during downshifts is achieved through engine and gearbox electronic controller interaction for extra throttle and fuel injection during the overrun. During transmission upshifts, fuel and ignition are cut momentarily to give faster mechanical shift times through torque reduction, also improving shift quality and durability.

The extreme performance of the Superports Convertible is matched by precise, agile handling, while retaining class-leading levels of ride comfort and refinement. Developed from the GTC Speed, chassis enhancements include retuning of the electronic Continuous Damping Control (CDC) system, stiffer front suspension bushes and uprated rear anti-roll bar. The Supersports Convertible also shares its ride height with the GTC Speed, sitting 10mm (0.4in) lower at the front and 15mm (0.6in) lower at the rear than the standard GTC.

The front suspension trailing lever features a new design of hydraulic bush, 33 per cent stiffer than those of GTC Speed, for improved steering response while the uprated rear anti-roll bar provides improved body control and turn-in response.

The retuned CDC system provides enhanced control of body movement to strike the optimum balance between agile handling and ride comfort during all driving manoeuvres. Agility is further sharpened by a 40:60 rear-biased torque split for the all-wheel drive system which reduces understeer during hard cornering and allows the experienced driver to modulate the car’s line and balance via precise throttle control.

The 9.5Jx20-inch forged alloy wheels, shared with the Supersports Coupé, offer a weight saving of 10kg (22lb) per car, reducing unsprung and rotating mass while the open 10-spoke design offers superior brake cooling. The rear wheels have a 25mm (1 inch) greater offset resulting in a 50mm (2 inches) increase in the rear track, further benefiting handling and stability.

The lightweight wheels are fitted with 275/35 ZR 20 Pirelli Ultra-High Performance tyres, providing excellent steering response. The standard-fit tyre monitoring system allows the driver to select tyres type and speed range parameters. As well as monitoring pressures, the system warns drivers if their speed is too high for the tyre pressures or if tyre speed ratings are exceeded on winter tyres.

The Supersports Convertible features an advanced electronic stability programme (ESP) that moderates intervention at low speeds, exploiting the potential of the more powerful engine and enhanced chassis, improving driver interaction and control. The new ESP also provides faster reinstatement of engine torque after intervention, giving the spirited driver greater control. The target slip is increased at greater than 90 per cent throttle to utilise all available longitudinal grip. Corner exit agility is thereby also enhanced for increased driver involvement. Together the chassis, tyre and track changes deliver improved grip, turn-in and agility.

Carbon ceramic brakes are standard fitment and provide a reduction in rotating and unsprung mass of 20kg (44lb) from the front axle,  benefiting steering response, grip and ride comfort. The large diameter (420mm front, 356mm rear) lightweight discs and eight-piston calipers offer fade-resistant braking performance with minimal disc distortion under high thermal conditions. Pedal feel is also improved with shorter travel, high effectiveness and a precise pressure point.

Designing the ‘extreme’ Bentley convertible- where form follows function

The evolution of the Supersports Convertible’s design is very much a case of form following function, with new purposeful sculptural forms signalling the engineering changes beneath the skin. Key engineering-led design changes to the Supersports include:

• Revised front air intakes and new bonnet vents to improve airflow and cooling
• Flared rear wings to accommodate wider rear track
• Discreet bootlid spoiler benefitting aerodynamic balance at high speeds

The increased power and torque of the W12 engine necessitated an additional 10 per cent airflow to the twin turbocharger intercoolers and cooling system. With extensive use of Computational Fluid Dynamics techniques, Bentley’s designers responded with a purposeful and dramatic style, featuring large vertical intake apertures. Twin bonnet vents were added to ensure positive air extraction.

Similarly, all-new flared rear wings that accommodate the 50mm (2 inches) wider rear track are designed to emphasise the powerful stance of this ultra-high performance Convertible. The resultant Supersports Convertible style combines the looks of the graceful Continental GTC with a wide, low and muscular appearance that reflects its more extreme character.

The Supersports Convertible, in common with its Coupé stablemate, occupies a position within the Bentley portfolio which is all its own, as Raul Pires, Head of Exterior Design, explains.

“The Supersports Convertible and Coupé are the ultimate driver’s Bentleys and that is reflected in unique design cues that provide a bold, sporting look, from whatever angle the cars are admired. Even from 50 metres behind on a dark road, you can just tell it’s a Supersports.”

From the front, the radiator, lower grille and dual bonnet vents are finished in a striking Smoked Steel finish. Derived from an innovative technology normally used to apply a coating to luxury watches and specialised industrial tools, Physical Vapour Deposition (PVD) is a complex and time-consuming process that involves vaporised metal being deposited onto the surface of, in this case, stainless steel.

Giving a darker, more solid appearance, it is the first use of a PVD finish on stainless steel in the car industry. In addition to the Smoked Steel finishes, a gloss black finish to the headlamp casings and rear lamp clusters gives the Supersports convertible’s distinctive face and muscular rear additional visual impact.

Restyled – and more aerodynamic – door mirrors match the exterior paint choice and the window and door surrounds replace polished stainless steel with a Smoked Steel finish to match the front grille. Eye-catching, black gloss Bentley-branded brake calipers act on the carbon ceramic brakes. Surrounding the brakes are the unique 20-inch, forged alloy wheels with Smoked Steel-finish which are exclusive to Supersports models. Large diameter tailpipe trims round out the car’s purposeful stance when viewed from the rear. Beneath the bonnet Supersports badges grace the cover of the 630PS (621bhp) W12 engine.

The Supersports Convertible has an electrically operated, three-layer fabric hood with advanced acoustic insulation to provide superb levels of refinement and comfort when raised. A choice of eight hood colours are available, including a new Dark Grey Metallic option, which is achieved by weaving a ‘grey’ acrylic fibre with a semi-transparent ‘metallic effect’ fibre in a twill weave construction to create a directional colour effect.

A re-interpretation of Bentley craftsmanship

Inside the Supersports Convertible, the cockpit is a dramatic execution of iconic Bentley design displayed in its full glory every time the roof is lowered. Dirk van Braeckel, Director of Design and Styling, describes the approach taken by his interior design team:

“The design team has fully embraced the spirit of Supersports to create a dramatic interpretation of Bentley luxury for the new Convertible where traditional craftsmanship and fine detailing are given a very different interpretation. Leather hides combine with new materials for Bentley such as satin-finished carbon fibre and Alcantara^™ to create a unique ambience with a distinctly sporting and contemporary style.”

Lightweight carbon fibre is featured throughout the cabin, from the unique carbon-weave treadplates with Supersports script in both doorwells to the sculpted lightweight sports front seats, which feature a carbon fibre clamshell back and Diamond-quilted Alcantara^™. Each seat weighs just 21kg and, in a typical example of attention to detail, the visible weave in the carbon fibre has a ‘Bentley-specific’ density to ensure the perfect visual finish.

The Continental Supersports is the first Bentley to offer a combination of soft-grip leather and performance-enhancing Alcantara^™ alongside the leather hide. Alcantara^™ is favoured by racing teams for its ability to provide additional grip under extreme conditions, such as cornering. But it is also sensational to look at, as well as being immensely supportive on the road or track.

The Alcantara^™ applied to the rear compartment, door panels and seat facings is quilted and in the Supersports marks the return of the much smaller ‘diamond’ upholstery pattern from Bentleys of old. To further highlight the car’s sporting nature, the steering wheel and gear lever are trimmed in new ‘Soft Grip’ leather with extra grip for a supercar feel, and drilled alloy sports pedals stand out in the driver’s footwell.

FlexFuel technology introduced on all 2011 Continental models

FlexFuel technology, pioneered on the Continental Supersports Coupé in 2009, is now extended to the complete 2011 Continental range, including the new Supersports Convertible. The W12 6-litre power unit now has the technology to run on petrol, E85 bioethanol or any mix of these two fuels – all from a single tank.

Bioethanol is blended with petrol in a variety of percentages ranging from E10 (10 per cent bioethanol) to the most widely known, E85, a ratio of 85% bioethanol to 15 per cent petrol to ensure cold-start capability.

Bioethanol presents other unique engineering challenges compared with petrol, due to its chemical composition and characteristics. E85 biofuel has a very high octane rating of 105 but a lower energy content that requires a 30 per cent increase in the engine fuel flow rate. This necessitated a complete review of the fuel system to identify and, if required, replace components deemed to be insufficiently resistant to the properties of ethanol.

Increased fuel flow is achieved through a returnless fuel system, twin variable flow fuel pumps and a new closed loop fuel rail design with pressure sensor. For the fuel system all O-rings, seals, gaskets and pipes are new while new valve coatings and hardened valve seat material provide additional lubrication. New spark plugs with a wider heat range allow for slower combustion.

A sensor in the fuel supply system detects the blending ratio in real time and varies the engine mapping to ensure power, torque and emissions remain at the same levels whatever fuel is used.

FlexFuel offers the possibility of up to a 70 per cent reduction in CO₂ net emissions on a ‘well to wheel’ basis, calculated by adding the CO₂ emitted during the extraction and refining process (the ‘well’) with the CO₂ released when the fuel is burnt during motoring (the ‘wheel’).

Biofuels can be sourced from sugar cane or soyabean, or from “2^nd generation” sources such as agricultural waste and forestry residues. As biofuels are not derived from fossil fuels, the CO₂ released during combustion is reabsorbed by plants during the photosynthesis process, thus creating an unbroken energy cycle.

Enhanced choice for all Continental customers

In addition to the transition to all-FlexFuel engines, the Continental range receives a host of new exterior and interior specification enhancements for the 2011 models, which emphasise the unparalleled craftsmanship and materials that are used to create the exquisite interiors for which Bentley is renowned.

Six new colours are added to the Bentley colour palette (Citric, White Satin, Kingfisher, Magenta, Orange Flame and St James Red Pearl) and the Dark Grey Metallic Hood that is available on the new Supersports Convertible is also available on the Continental GTC models.

Traditional Bentley features such as seat piping and stitching options can be applied to the rich leather hides that are used to trim the cabins of every Continental. These include highly intricate fine line, cross and Z-stitching to decorate the seats, door panels and front console.

A new Premium Pack for the four-door Flying Spur is available as a cost option and includes beautiful veneered picnic tables with vanity mirrors, a Mulliner ‘jewelled’ alloy fuel filler cap and chrome inlay strips to the door waistrails. Customers can also choose from lambswool rugs or deep pile carpet mats with leather hide binding to the edges.

Convenience Packs are available for both the Continental GT, Continental GTC, Flying Spur and Flying Spur Speed models. On the GT and GTC models this includes Adaptive Cruise Control with ‘Follow to Stop’ feature, an iPod^™interface linked to the Infotainment system, massage function to the front seats, a front privacy telephone handset, rear-view camera and Valet key. For Flying Spur models, the Convenience Pack also includes an additional rear privacy handset. The massage function for the front seats is already standard on this model.

Finally a new automatically opening and closing closing Powerboot is now standard on the new Continental Flying Spur and GTC models (not on Supersports versions).

Replacing the conventional instrument cluster design, the reconfigurable 12.3-inch full colour TFT display integrates multiple functions and operating modes to present on-demand driver information via virtual gauges, graphical displays and a message centre. Developed for the 2010 Range Rover model range, this is Jaguar Land Roverʼs first “virtual cluster” application.

By introducing an advanced graphics interface, the reconfigurable cluster presents information to the driver in an innovative way, while helping reduce driver distraction. The cluster redefines the functional role of instrumentation by providing an interface to safely manage the complexity of the Range Roverʼs advanced vehicle systems through the reconfigurable message centre which acts as the information hub for the vehicle.

“The new display technology used by the 2010 Range Rover is a major advance. It gives us tremendous flexibility in presenting information, so that the driver gets precisely the data he or she requires, in all driving conditions,” explains Nick Rogers, chief engineer, new vehicle architecture, Range Rover.

The Range Rover “virtual cluster” is the first production program launched from Visteonʼs reconfigurable cluster platform and the latest in its range of clusters with graphic displays. The platform also offers vehicle manufacturers the flexibility to use one hardware solution with multiple graphic applications for easier vehicle differentiation or mid-cycle refresh.

“This powerful ʽvirtual imageʼ cluster is an example of Visteonʼs global platform strategy, which provides vehicle manufacturers with cost-effective solutions through hardware and software architecture re-use,” said Steve Meszaros, president of Visteonʼs electronics product group. “Although this high-end cluster initially is designed for the best-in-class comfort and refinement of the Range Rover, Visteonʼs unique system integration approach is set to make large TFT displays a viable and affordable alternative to conventional clusters.”

The cluster was developed in conjunction with Land Rover by Visteonʼs engineering teams in Chelmsford, U.K., with support from development teams in the U.S. and software development from Visteon Software Operations, India, and Visteon Software Technologies, France. The reconfigurable platform design is based on a new architectural approach to efficiently manage the complexity of the increased graphics content and display management.

Visteonʼs advanced technological expertise has been combined with its extensive proprietary research on consumer perceived quality and product design to bring forward a technology that offers freedom of design for OEMs and maximum ease of use for the consumer.

Production Ready i-MiEV

The i-MiEV represents the crystallization of some 40 years of electric vehicle development at Mitsubishi Motors. The company is presenting the production i-MiEV as the ultimate eco-car, a solution to the various challenges the automobile faces today including environmental pollution, global warming and the depletion of petroleum-based energy supplies. The company will continue its extensive collaboration with both private and public sectors in Japan and overseas in developing infrastructure to promote ownership of EVs.

Mitsubishi Motors expects to distribute, on a maintenance lease basis, some 1,400 i-MiEV models in fiscal 2009 principally to corporations and to local authorities. The company plans to start sales of i-MiEV to individuals in April 2010 and will start taking orders in late July of this year.

*1       MiEV: Mitsubishi innovative Electric Vehicle
*2       i-MiEV : For the full production model a hyphen has been added to the name by which the advance experiment and proving models have been known.

A Hungry i-MiEV

The i-MiEV makes maximum use of the long wheelbase that stems from its base model the “i” minicar’s rear-midship layout to install a large capacity lithium-ion drive battery under the floor and the power unit under the luggage compartment. This provides a cruising range that is ample for everyday use without compromising the generous seating or luggage space of the “i.”

The introduction of the MiEV OS (MiEV Operating System)*4 – an advanced integrated vehicle management system into which the company has poured its wealth of know-how garnered from many years of EV research and development – has provided the kind of high performance and reliability that befits a new-generation EV.
*4       Generic name for the integrated vehicle management system developed by Mitsubishi Motors for new-generation EVs.

Principal product features
(1) Zero drive-time CO2 emissions
The i-MiEV is a zero-emissions vehicle (ZEV) which produces no CO2 emissions while being driven. Even when the CO2 gas emitted at power generating stations is taken into consideration, the i-MiEV generates approximately one-third of the CO2 produced by the gasoline “i” minicar (Calculated in-house based on the average of electric energy frameworks in Japan).

(2) Driven 100% by electrical power
The i-MiEV is very economical because it only uses electrical energy as its power source. Also, depending on electric power company rate fees, the running cost can be reduced further by charging the battery when off-peak (late night) rates apply..

(3) Quiet, agile, comfortable performance
The i-MiEV delivers the quiet and comfortable motoring experience only possible from an internal combustion engine-less EV. Maximizing the excellent response and high low-end torque inherent to its electric motor i-MiEV enables a level of responsive and powerful performance that surpasses that of the gasoline-powered turbo engine “i” minicar.
(4) Ample range for everyday minicar use
The i-MiEV has a single-charge range of 160 km in the Japanese 10-15 mode urban driving pattern. This gives it a range that is ample for everyday minicar use.
(5) 3 ways to charge the battery
The i-MiEV uses a 3-way charging system that allows the drive battery to be charged at home or when out and about. For normal charging i-MiEV is connected to either a standard 100-volt or 200-volt domestic outlet using the charging cables supplied with the vehicle. The i-MiEV’s battery can also be “quick charged” at quick-charge stations which are currently being established throughout Japan.
Charging time guide
Normal: 200V AC(15Amp)     Approx. 7 hours (full charge)
100V AC(15Amp)     Approx. 14 hours (full charge)
Quick 200V 3-phase (50 kW)     Approx. 30 mins. (80% charge)

i-MiEV Underbits and Powertrain

Advanced technology
(1) Main powertrain components
a. Drive battery
The i-MiEV is powered by a very high energy-density lithium-ion battery manufactured by Lithium Energy Japan. The large-capacity drive battery is comprised of 88 lithium-ion cells connected in series and is installed under the floor in the center of the vehicle. This configuration contributes to outstanding handling and stability due to the car’s low center of gravity.

b. Motor (power unit)
The i-MiEV uses a high-efficiency compact and lightweight permanent magnet synchronous electric motor specially developed for the vehicle. It generates maximum torque from low engine speeds to deliver powerful response and a comfortable ride experience. When the vehicle slows down the regenerative brake system causes the motor to operate as a generator. The electrical energy recovered is stored in the drive battery.

c. Transmission
The i-MiEV uses a lightweight and compact single-speed reduction gear transmission, exploiting the high low-end torque inherent to the electric motor and eliminating the need for complex gear shifting mechanisms as found in internal combustion engine powered vehicles.
d. On-board charger

The i-MiEV comes with a compact, lightweight on-board charger that allows the drive battery to be charged using a domestic 100V/200V AC line.
e. DC/DC converter
The DC/DC converter is used to charge the 12-volt auxiliary battery and power electrical equipment. It is integrated with the on-board charger in a single unit to reduce size and weight.
f. Inverter
The i-MiEV ‘s motor is driven by an alternating current. The inverter converts high-voltage direct current from the drive battery to alternating current and supplies motor with the power required to drive the vehicle.
Climate control
The i-MiEV ‘s climate control system features air conditioning with an electrically powered compressor and a heating system which circulates warm water heated by an electric heater. The control dial provides six-step manual adjustment of both cooling and heating temperatures. The system reduces power consumption by minimizing occasions when both cooling unit and the heater operate together.

Safety features
The high-voltage system, battery pack included, is located inside the body frame and is further protected by a well-crib frame against damage from any direction of impact.

The MiEV OS (MiEV Operating System) gathers data and information from all the major EV components to provide integrated management of the i-MiEV ‘s performance. The advanced management system constantly monitors battery status and the energy recovered from the regenerative brakes while regulating output to ensure smooth and powerful acceleration from a full stop. As a result the system optimizes and minimizes energy consumption while delivering road performance that is comfortable, safe and reassuring.

LED headlamps and rear combination lamps
The i-MiEV is the first minicar and the first Mitsubishi Motors model to use LED headlamps, which throw a longer and wider low-beam pattern while also cutting power consumption. The rear combination lamps also use fast-illuminating LED emitters for the tail and stop lamps, making these lamps more instantly visible to following vehicles.

PBS-bamboo fiber Green Plastic tailgate trim
The i-MiEV uses PBS (polybutylene succinate)-bamboo fiber Green Plastic for the tailgate interior trim. The use of PBS-bamboo fiber cuts life-cycle emissions (from extraction of raw materials to final disposal of product) of CO2 by some 10 percent compared with polypropylene.

Venturi Volante in the Monaco sunshine

This first official demonstration of the Venturi Volage took place last weekend at the Monaco Grand Prix track. The vehicle  is equipped with the “Michelin Active Wheel” technology incorporating 2 electric motors per wheel (1 for suspension and 1 for drive). The occasion also celebrated 25 years of Venturi Automobiles.

The product is the Mission One, a very modern bike with contemporary and appropriate styling. More info at: www.ridemission.com