NY Motor Show: Lotus New Era takes on the Big Apple

• US debut for the Evora S and IPS
• IndyCar Driver EJ Viso and Team Principal Jimmy Vasser

Lotus Advisory Council Member and automotive legend Bob Lutz opened the press conference for Group Lotus today (April 21st) at the New York Auto Show. Whilst Bob spoke about the future for Lotus, the focus remained firmly on the here and now and this was perfectly demonstrated by the American debut of the stunning new Evora S and the Evora IPS (Intelligent Precision Shift) – both models showcase the versatility of the multi-award winning Evora.



Bob Lutz was joined by Lotus’ Director of Sales, Guillaume Chabin who gave an overview on the current Lotus line-up followed by Director of Motorsport Claudio Berro and Lotus KVRT Team Principal Jimmy Vasser and IndyCar driver EJ Viso.

But for Lotus it’s the cars that are always the stars and alongside the famous faces on the stand sat the limited edition RGB Exige and a member of the future Lotus family, the iconic Esprit, arguably the most eagerly anticipated of the new Lotus range.

Lotus will be at the New York Auto Show until May 1st so fans of the unique British automotive manufacturer have a few days to get up close to a selection of some of the most enjoyable, high-performance, lightweight sportscars on the market.

And now some more details about those all important stars of the show……

About the Evora S: Like the standard Evora, the Evora S has a 3.5 litre V6 engine and produces seamless performance. The supercharged Evora S has 350 PS (345 hp) and 400 Nm (295 lbft) of torque, courtesy of a supercharger which gives acceleration of 4.8 seconds to 100 km/h (4.6 seconds to 60 mph) and a maximum speed of 277 km/h (172 mph).

The Evora S comes with a sport pack as standard featuring a ‘sport’ button which allows the driver to control throttle response and activate the exhaust by-pass valve*. The sport button also raises the instantaneous rev limit and changes the dynamic stability control settings resulting in a total experience change. The external emotion of the Evora S has been improved with a completely new active exhaust which means that at the push of a button the car sounds just as dramatic as it feels.

Group Lotus CEO Dany Bahar says: “It’s the next level of Evora experience. The Evora S communicates even more with you, with extra power and control the car responds even more to your direction. It’s an instinctual car, the experience is pure.”

About the Evora IPS: The IPS version of the Evora allows the driver to switch between manual paddle shift and automatic drive modes. The driver also has the option of selecting ‘sport’ mode which showcases the Lotus sport driving experience allowing the driver to really feel each gear shift and be in complete control of the transmission.

Group Lotus CEO Dany Bahar says: “The Evora IPS is set to broaden the appeal of the Evora and reach out to a slightly different market. We expect it will be popular with established automatic locations such as Asia, the Middle East and the US. It’s been a long time since Lotus created an automatic and we’ve spent a great deal of time refining this one to make sure that it perfectly complements the Evora drive experience.”

About the RGB Exige: The limited edition RGB Exige also featured on the stand, named in honour of one of Lotus’ most prominent old boys, former Director of Vehicle Engineering Roger George Becker. In celebration of his 44 years of service, which included doubling for Roger Moore’s James Bond in The Spy Who Loved Me, Lotus created a special edition of the Exige and Elise which both benefit from some Becker-inspired modifications. For the technically minded out there, the RGB Exige uses the range topping 260 PS (257 hp) supercharged and an intercooled 1.8l engine which allows this lightweight sportscar a 0-60 mp/h in around four seconds and an impressive aerodynamic downforce figure of 92.5 lbs (42 kg) at 100 mph (160 km/h).

The Exige RGB is available in four colours, Aspen White, Starlight Black, Solar Yellow & Carbon Grey and each one is identified by a numbered interior plaque, Roger Becker’s signature on the side of the bodywork and special monochrome Lotus nose badge.

About the Esprit: The new Esprit will be powered by a 5.0 litre V8 pressure charged engine delivering up to 620 PS. The Esprit retains exceptional performance through it’s unique lightweight design making it the ultimate expression of Lotus supercar ownership. It is the supercar that will redefine ride and handling, performance, comfort and exclusivity.

The styling of the Esprit echos the performance with strong lines throughout the sleek low body. The symmetry through the mass and proportion of the Esprit give it an intense look, it’s the perfect example of the new Lotus DNA in action.

Group Lotus CEO Dany Bahar says: “Not only does the Esprit look incredible but it will have the performance to match. We’ve stuck to the Lotus core values of performance through lightweight and teamed them with future technology and exceptional engineering to ensure that the Esprit will be the leader of the pack. The design is aggressive, you have to see it to appreciate how low and wide the proportions are but it still retains a level of dignity, of class and most of all exclusivity. I’m very proud of this car.”

DETROIT VIDEO: Chevrolet kicks off 100th Birthday with Sonic launch

Chevrolet is 100 years old this year and the American icon kicked off with the launch of the Sonic, the only small car to be built in the USA...

This video talks about the company, teh Sonic and their dream for the future. Video after the jump

DETROIT: Hyundai Veloster is one funky three-door hatch

The Koreans are really on a roll, Hyundai's Veloster three-door hatch is a cool ride for those with small families but want something exciting to move around in.

The third door really takes care of a lot of versatility issues and solves the access problem to the second row of seats.
With a 1.6-litre engine under the bonnet, the Veloster is not going to scorch tarmac but 138 horses through a six-speed dual clutch box will help give it brisk pace.



The Veloster also comes with Blue Link, Hyundai's new telematics system that integrates service schedule with GPS, remote start and vehicle tracking. The Blue Link is a US-only service for now.


Expect the Veloster to be priced near the Honda CR-Z


GALLERY

VIDEO: Porsche 918RSR Hybrid - torturing the future

The 918 made it to Detroit at a hybrid race car and Porsche says that this is not just a concept car, they claim to have been testing teh or rather torturing the 918 RSR Hybrid on the tracks

It follows the footsteps of the 911 GT3R Hybrid race car. Video after the jump

DEPTROIT Prius V for Versatility

Anyone who hsa driven the Toyota Prius knows that it is a powerful little car, it accelerates like a car with a 2.2 engine even though it is just a 1.8 lump under the bonnet, the reason? Electric assist.

Clearly the Prius could handle a bit more mass and Toyota clearly felt that customers would appreciate a bigger, more practical Prius so they came up with the V.



Looking a bit like a truncated Wish MPV from some angles, the Prius V is a decent looking family transport

The Prius V is five inches longer and one inch wider than the original but thanks to lightweight solutions and a slippery shape that carves a drag coefficient of only 0.29Cd the Prius still gets impressive fuel economy.

The Prius V will be available to market middle of this year

We have the full details of the car in the Toyota Press release below,

2012 PRIUS v PRELIMINARY SPECIFICATIONS 


Powertrain 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine with VVT-i 
Engine horsepower: 98 hp @ 5,200 rpm 
Engine torque:105 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm 
Electric motor: Permanent magnet synchronous motor 
Electric motor power output: 80 hp/153 lb-ft torque 
Hybrid system net horsepower: 134 hp 
Emission rating: SULEV/Tier 2 Bin 3 
Electronically controlled continuously variable transmission 
Drive System:Front-wheel-drive 
Hybrid battery pack: Nickel-metal hydride 
Estimated fuel economy:42 mpg city/38 mpg hwy/ 40 mpg comb. 
Dimensions (inches) 
Overall Length: 181.7 
Overall Width: 69.9 
Overall Height: 62.0 
Wheelbase: 109.4 
Ground clearance: 5.7 
Coefficient of Drag: 0.29 
Wheels: 16-inch alloy wheels 17-inch alloy wheels (optional) 
Tire Size: 16-inch: 205/60R16 17-inch: 215/50R17 (optional) 
Seating Capacity: 5 
EPA class rating: Midsize Station Wagon




GALLERY

PRESS RELEASE

Prius v: "Versatility" for Young, Active Families

The new Prius v, with "v" expressing the vehicle's versatility, will meet the needs of growing families with active lifestyles while providing the same attributes traditionally found in the Prius DNA. It will share the current generation Prius' platform and Hybrid Synergy Drive technology. Featuring a compact exterior yet spacious interior, the Prius v will feature over 50-percent more interior cargo space than the current Prius.

With a balance between outstanding spaciousness, refined style, and smooth aerodynamics, Prius v has a low 0.29 coefficient of drag, which does not inhibit the vehicle's convenient packaging. It is a new vehicle designed from the ground up, with a shape that evolved from Prius rather than being an elongated version.

The exterior styling is sleek, rounded and bold, with an extended roofline that allows the vehicle to retain the triangular silhouette symbolic of Prius. The trapezoidal-shaped front features sharp-edged headlamps, wind-slipping aero corners for improved aerodynamics and an enlarged under grille, which all help create a unique design evolving from the current Prius. Prius v's rear styling is highlighted by a refined backdoor panel, intricate combination taillights and a specially designed roof spoiler that improves air flow.

Inside, the Prius v emphasizes overall proportion with spaciousness and flexibility for active families. Comfortable interior space and good visibility has been assisted by a high seating position, ample head room, and an impressive 38-inch couple distance, providing generous rear legroom. A low, wide-opening rear hatch reveals 34.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, making it the most spacious dedicated hybrid vehicle on the market and better than some compact SUVs.

Comfortable seating for five is specifically designed for young families. Sliding second row seats allow for easier ingress and egress and rear-storage flexibility, with a 45-degree recline for greater comfort. The 60/40 split, folding rear seats present four different seat arrangements that provide excellent usability for passengers and luggage, while a fold-flat front-passenger seat allows for extremely long cargo.

Also available, and a Toyota-first, is a resin Panoramic View moonroof with power retractable sun shades that provides an open atmosphere in the cabin with a 40-percent reduction in weight as compared to conventional glass roofs of the same size, and excellent heat insulation performance.

Up front, instrument-panel controls, including a single-dial air-conditioning control and a center-mounted digital combination meter, provide an advanced look and user-friendly command. The driving controls – including the Push Button Start, parking switch, electronic shift lever, and driving mode selection – are distinguished by silver trim.

Despite the spaciousness of a family friendly midsize vehicle, the Prius v will deliver estimated EPA fuel economy ratings of 42 mpg city, 38 mpg highway and 40 mpg combined, the best fuel economy ratings of any SUV, crossover, or wagon on the market. It will also emit 66-percent fewer smog-forming emissions than the average new vehicle.

Like the current generation Prius, the Prius v is a showcase of technology that will include many of the same standard features. Four driving modes (Normal, Power, Eco and EV) satisfy a variety of road conditions and driver preferences. A Smart Key System with Push Button Start, an electronic shift lever, Hill Start Assist Control (HAC), and a back-up camera are standard. Available options include energy-efficient LED headlamps, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control with a Pre-Collision System (PCS), and Advanced Parking Guidance System.

For a high level of safety, there are seven airbags, a high-strength cabin and an energy-absorbing body structure with impact beams, cross members and leg absorption pads. New driver and front-passenger seat design helps lessen possible whiplash injury during a collision.

Like all Toyota models, the Prius v will feature Toyota's Star Safety System™ standard, which includes Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TRAC), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist. It also features the standard Smart Stop Technology brake-override system.

Prius v will be one of the first Toyotas with the Entune™ multimedia system. For the first time ever in an automobile, this innovative new system leverages the mobile phone to provide a richer in-vehicle experience with fully integrated and wireless upgradeable navigation, entertainment and information services.

Toyota Entune debuts the first-ever support for engaging mobile apps, such as Bing, OpenTable, and movietickets.com, along with accessing useful travel-related services, such as live weather, traffic, fuel information (location and price), stocks, news and sports.

Toyota Entune brings the largest selection of music options available to a vehicle, including iheartradio's 750+ stations, Pandora's personalized music, the driver's personal songs from portable media players and iPods (via USB or Bluetooth audio streaming), and more than 170 stations from XM satellite radio.

Featuring a best-in-class, advanced conversational voice recognition system that helps the driver to stay focused on the road, Toyota Entune eliminates the need to memorize thousands of voice commands and helps reduce driver distraction.

Entune will also allow for audio read-back and replay capabilities for text messages, with the ability to respond by pre-set "Quick Reply Messages."

Prius v will combine Entune with a standard Display Audio system rich with dynamic entertainment and communication features. The system will include HD Radio with iTunes tagging for future purchase; XM radio, weather, sports, stocks and local fuel pricing; Bluetooth hands-free phone and wireless audio; and full iPod integration including music and video.

A new evolution in hybrid vehicles with excellent cargo space and Prius' heritage of environmental performance and fuel economy, the 2012 Prius v will go on sale in late summer 2011.

DETROIT: Prius C - for Compact

The birth of the Prius variations marks the definite advance of hybrid technology into our everyday motoring lives.

Toyota showed off two new variants of the Prius, a smaller more sporty C and bigger more versatile V



Toyota is aiming the C at the value market, which is basically means they are going after the Honda Insight which is fighting at a price range below the Prius. With the smaller size, Toyota is also promising more efficiency and range and aims to set the benchmark in the class for non plug-in hybrid.

The styling is of the Prius C concept is still too adventurous for production but we can never tell these days, it may just make to the showroom looking exactly like it does right now.

The C is a five-door hatchback and when it makes it to the market in the first half of 2012, expect Japan to be the main market and with that in mind the styling you see here is perfect. No toning down needed.


GALLERY

PRESS RELEASE


Prius c Concept: Small "city"-centric Hybrid Vehicle

While the current Prius has ushered hybrid technology into the mainstream, and the Prius v will provide the additional room and versatility for active families, compact shoppers are interested in a smaller hybrid at an entry price point and with superior fuel economy. The Prius c Concept, with c representing a "city"-centric vehicle, will appeal to young singles and couples who want an eco-sensitive, high-mileage, fun-to-drive Prius.

This dynamic vehicle with urban appeal will pursue outstanding fuel efficiency in a compact package, while also providing a surprisingly spacious interior. It will include many advanced technology features, including some offered on the current Prius.

Prius c Concept is the inspiration for an additional Prius family member that will come to market in the first half of 2012 as the most value-oriented hybrid in the U.S. market with the highest mileage of any "cordless" hybrid.

VIDEO: Audi A7 Live from Detroit

This is a pre-Detroit Motor Show video presentation from Audi for the A7.Video after the jump

Watch live streaming video from audi at livestream.com

DETROIT VIDEO:Buick Verano launch

The Buick Verano is a sort of American 3-series, built on a modified/enlarged GM compact saloon platform, ie the Cruze platform, the  Verano is the most upmarket version of this group of car in GM's stable.

Apart from the USA, the Verano will probably find its way to China where it will probably sell very well, Buick is the most popular American brand in China...go figure.

Maybe its the chrome, Video after the jump