2014 Nissan Qashqai Premier Limited Edition

November 24, 2013, 10:21 am

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The Premier Limited Edition has been created by Nissan to support the launch of its brand new Qashqai.

Based on the range-topping Tekna variant, just 2,007 examples will be built with 290 of those allocated to the UK. Unusually, only existing Nissan customers are going to be eligible to buy them.

Pearl Black paintwork, stone-coloured leather and Alcantara upholstery, black carpets, a black headliner, some extra chrome trim and a numbered badge distinguish the Premier Limited Edition.

That lot adds to the Tekna’s already generous standard equipment list, which includes cruise control, tyre pressure monitoring, LED headlights, a rear-view camera, heated front seats, satellite navigation and the Safety Shield suite of devices.

Offered only with a 1.6 litre diesel engine and all-wheel drive, the Qashqai Premier Limited Edition will be available until the end of 2013. Nissan has yet to announce a price.

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2014 Honda City unveiled in India

November 25, 2013, 12:02 pm

≫ Next: Citroën DS3 DS World Paris special edition

≪ Previous: 2014 Nissan Qashqai Premier Limited Edition

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Honda has revealed its fourth-generation City saloon, which will eventually be offered in 60 territories across Asia.

The new arrival is described by Honda as being an ‘Advanced Cool Stunner’. Whether or not the design is either cool or stunning is debateable, however it’s certainly neat and distinctive.

An overall length of 4,440 mm (174.8”) is the same as the City’s predecessor. Usable cabin space should be slightly better though, as the wheelbase has been stretched by 50 mm (2.0”) to 2,600 mm (102.3”).

Few technical details have been released, but buyers will have a choice of i-DTEC diesel or i-VTEC petrol engines. Both options have 1.5 litre capacities.

India has been selected as the launch market for the 2014 Honda City and sales due to begin there in January 2014. Even though pricing has yet to be confirmed, dealers are already accepting orders.

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Citroën DS3 DS World Paris special edition

November 25, 2013, 1:56 pm

≫ Next: Volvo V60 Polestar revealed

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To celebrate the opening of DS World Paris later this month, Citroën has created an exclusive version of its DS3 hatchback.

Unsurprisingly named the DS3 DS World Paris edition, production is being restricted to just 15 examples. The classy colour scheme, inspired by Art Deco, mixes matte ash grey bodywork with a Trinitario brown finish for the roof, door mirror caps and alloy wheels.

A similar brown shade is used for the leather upholstery that covers the seats, dashboard insert, centre armrest and gear knob. As a unique finishing touch, the door panel trims and numbered dashboard badge are made from oak.

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Volvo V60 Polestar revealed

November 26, 2013, 1:13 pm

≫ Next: BMW X6 M Design Edition launched

≪ Previous: Citroën DS3 DS World Paris special edition

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Volvo’s steady nurturing of Polestar as a performance sub-brand continues. The latest model to receive the treatment is the V60 estate, which is instantly recognisable by its larger front splitter, 20” alloy wheels, tailgate spoiler and rear diffuser.

It’s not just a cosmetic conversion though, as all of the car’s major components have been modified by Polestar.

For instance, the 2,953 cc, six-cylinder engine gets an upgraded Borg Warner twin-scroll turbocharger, a more efficient intercooler and a stainless steel exhaust. As a result, power is up to 345 bhp (257 kW / 350 PS) while a substantial 500 Nm (369 lb/ft) of peak torque is available from just 2,800 rpm.

That output is sent to all four wheels via a specially recalibrated six-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters. The V60 Polestar can accelerate from standstill to 62 mph (100km/h) in only 4.9 seconds, before going on to an electronically-limited top speed of 155 mph (250 km/h).

To go with the extra grunt, stiffer springs and Öhlins dampers are fitted, along with an enhanced braking set-up that features six-piston Brembo calipers and floating discs for the front wheels. The traction control system has been tweaked, too.

Sales of the V60 Polestar are set to being in June 2014, with sales initially restricted to Canada, the Netherlands, Japan, Sweden, Switzerland, the United Kingdom and the United States.

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BMW X6 M Design Edition launched

November 27, 2013, 11:13 am

≫ Next: 2014 Corvette Stingray Premiere Edition convertible

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BMW has introduced a special version of its V8-powered X6 M. Called the Design Edition, production is being limited to just 100 units.

Compared to a standard X6 M, the changes are purely cosmetic. They begin on the outside with a set of 21” double-spoke alloy wheels, some rather loud stripes and a choice of Sapphire Black, Melbourne Red or Alpine White paintwork.

For the interior, the Design Edition features smart black and red Merino leather upholstery that even covers the dashboard. Completing the package are a commemorative badge and Piano Black trim from the BMW Individual catalogue.

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2014 Corvette Stingray Premiere Edition convertible

November 27, 2013, 3:00 pm

≫ Next: Honda Civic Tourer to compete in the BTCC

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To mark the arrival of its Corvette Stingray convertible, Chevrolet has unveiled a distinctive Premiere Edition.

Based on the 3LT model with Magnetic Selective Ride Control, the Z51 Performance Package and an upgraded exhaust fitted, the sole paint colour choice is a fetching shade called Lime Rock Green. Complementing the bodywork are a Brownstone suede interior and matching fabric roof.

The Premiere Edition also features unique wheels, special door sill plates, a dashboard plaque and a five-piece, Corvette-branded, Thule luggage set.

Available in the United States from early 2014, the price has been set at $77,450 including destination and delivery charges. Only 550 examples are going to be built, though.

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Images © General Motors.

Honda Civic Tourer to compete in the BTCC

November 29, 2013, 11:11 am

≫ Next: BMW 2 Series Coupé M Performance parts

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Next year’s Dunlop MSA British Touring Car Championship is going to see a couple of estate cars on the grid.

In a move which echoes TWR’s decision to run the Volvo 850 wagon during the 1994 season, the works Honda Yuasa Racing team will be fielding the brand new Civic Tourer in 2014.

Compared to the Civic hatchback, the Tourer has the same weight and wheelbase but the rear bodywork is slightly longer. It remains to be seen how the car’s lap times are affected by the change in aerodynamics and potentially different handling balance.

The first race of the 2014 BTCC takes place on the 30th of March at Brands Hatch.

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BMW 2 Series Coupé M Performance parts

November 29, 2013, 2:56 pm

≫ Next: Brabus 850 6.0 Biturbo estate unveiled

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Manufacturer initiatives such as BMW’s M Performance range of aftermarket parts could explain why certain segments of the modified car industry are struggling right now. The latest model to be added to the programme is the just-launched 2 Series Coupé.

Components offered for all variants include upgraded brakes, 19” alloy wheels and a sports suspension set-up that features bespoke dampers and lowers the ride height by 20 millimetres. A sportier look can be achieved by fitting side stripes, carbon fibre door mirror caps and a body kit, while an Alcantara and carbon fibre steering wheel, steel pedals and a replacement gear lever are available for the interior.

Among the specific elements is a power kit for the 220d. It lifts output and torque by 16 bhp (12 kW / 16 PS) and 40 Nm (29 lb/ft) respectively, but neither fuel consumption nor emissions are adversely affected. At the other end of the 2 Series line-up, M235i owners will be able to opt for a rear axle mechanical limited-slip differential and a more sonorous exhaust system.

Sales of M Performance parts for the BMW 2 Series Coupé are due to begin during March 2014.

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Brabus 850 6.0 Biturbo estate unveiled

November 30, 2013, 1:08 pm

≫ Next: Hesketh returns with the 24

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The Brabus 850 6.0 Biturbo package, which is now available in estate form, is all about remarkable numbers.

Based on the Mercedes-Benz E 63 AMG - itself no stranger to some impressive stats - Brabus engineers began their conversion by enlarging the displacement of the V8 engine from 5,461 cc to 5,912 cc. Next, bespoke pistons, an upgraded crankshaft, a carbon fibre air intake, bigger turbochargers, recalibrated management software and a special stainless steel exhaust system were all fitted.

The result is 838 bhp (625 kW / 850 PS), an increase of 50% compared to the regular E 63 AMG. Even more astonishing is the peak torque figure, which has been doubled to a massive 1,450 Nm (1,069 lb/ft).

Of course, performance is impressive. With all-wheel drive the 0-62 mph (100 km/h) sprint takes just 3.1 seconds, a time that’s 0.7 seconds quicker than the standard car’s. Top speed is electronically restricted to 186 mph (300 km/h) to protect the tyres.

To match the powertrain improvements, Brabus also offers 19” or 20” alloy wheels, a subtle carbon fibre body kit and custom leather- and Alcantara-trimmed interiors.

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Hesketh returns with the 24

December 1, 2013, 7:44 am

≫ Next: Volkswagen e-Up! UK price announced

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The past few years has seen Hesketh Motorcycles change ownership, relocate to Surrey and finally end production of the aged V1000. Now the next chapter in the marque’s history has been revealed.

Called the 24, the new bike sports a striped white colour scheme that’s a homage to the Hesketh Racing Formula One cars of the 1970s. The name itself recalls James Hunt’s race number when he secured the team’s sole championship victory at the 1975 Dutch Grand Prix.

The 24’s specification features a 1,950 cc V-twin engine that should produce around 120 bhp (89 kW / 122 PS). Other components include Öhlins suspension, Brock’s Performance carbon fibre wheels and Beringer brakes.

Hesketh proprietor, Paul Sleeman, commented: “The design of the bike itself is centred around the big V-twin muscle at the heart of the bike, with overhead air intakes inside the tank above and a 22.7 litre fuel cell mounted below the engine. To stay true to some original Hesketh features the front light offers a modern half cowl and the top tank follows the distinctive Hesketh shape.

“The limited edition Hesketh 24, of which only 24 will be made, is available from February and we will go on to develop and release a two-seat version of this model shortly after.”

A price has yet to be announced.

Volkswagen e-Up! UK price announced

December 1, 2013, 2:05 pm

≫ Next: Top 10: Unusual Christmas gifts for car fans

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With a UK price of £24,250 (which reduces to £19,250 after applying the government’s Plug-in Car Grant), it’s unlikely that the Volkswagen e-Up! is going to create a spike in demand for electric cars.

Admittedly the e-Up!’s standard specification is generous, as it includes satellite navigation, Bluetooth, heated front seats, a heated front windscreen, electronic climate control and rear parking sensors.

Nevertheless, the outlay appears steep when the most expensive five-door, petrol-powered, range-topping High Up! currently retails for £11,970. Factor in unknown residual values and financially things look even more dubious.

And then there are rivals such as the Nissan Leaf that costs from £20,990 to £25,490. Larger and more practical, it would seem to be a better value proposition for anyone determined to go electric.

The e-Up! has an 18.7 kWh lithium-ion battery pack that delivers a range of up to 93 miles (150 kilometres), although a full recharge using a domestic socket takes almost nine hours. Its 80 bhp (60 kW / 82 PS) electric motor is powerful enough for a 0-62 mph (100 km/h) time of 12.4 seconds and an 81 mph (130 km/h) top speed.

Available to order now from just 24 specially-appointed dealers nationwide, deliveries of the e-Up! are due to begin next month.

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Top 10: Unusual Christmas gifts for car fans

December 2, 2013, 3:52 pm

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Just about every car company indulges in merchandising. Generally it involves offering a range of scale models, as well as sticking a logo on innocuous items such as t-shirts, pens and caps.

Sometimes, though, products that have absolutely nothing to do with either motoring or the marque in question end up getting approved by the folks in marketing.

So, with Christmas rapidly approaching, here are ten of the oddest manufacturer-branded gift ideas, conveniently arranged in ascending price order.

1. Morgan clotted cream shortbread - £3.90
	The perfect stocking-filler for devotees of traditional British sports cars and baked goods.
2. Citroën tea cups and saucers - £23.00
	For those who want their home to resemble the reception area of a Citroën dealership, this crockery is the ideal starter accessory.
3. Audi spice grinder - £33.00
	Audi-driving foodies probably form quite a large demographic. Its numerous members are going to love this ceramic grinder that features a soft-touch red finish.
4. Mercedes-Benz barbeque set - £45.00
	Forget the tongs, apron, tea towel and storage bag, the highlight of this set is a steak brand. And who doesn’t want the three-pointed star seared onto their meat?
5. Jaguar Excellence men’s fragrance - £55.00
	There can’t be many men who wouldn’t like to smell of excellence. The scent is described as ‘crisp and woody’, which sounds lovely.
6. Ford sledge - £101.11
	Made by Rolly Snow, this two-person sledge is constructed from plastic with steel runners. Ford is really overestimating the value of having its badge plonked on the front though, as plain versions can be bought elsewhere online for half the price.
7. Volkswagen Up! giant beanbag - £145.00
	The cover for this beanbag is made of polyester with a water-resistant PVC coating, plus it can be removed for washing. Ideal for messy Up! owners, then.
8. Lotus wax seal set - £279.00 plus shipping
	Clearly aimed at Lotus aficionados who are also Victorians. The brass and wood stamp comes in a leather box, together with a supply of wax and a melting wick.
9. Ferrari Scuderia Spider surf board - £1,275.00 plus shipping
	Imagine turning up at the beach in a Ferrari FF with this bad boy strapped to the roof. People will definitely look (but not necessarily in a good way). Production is being limited to just 499 examples, so be quick.
10. Bentley backgammon set - £2,950.00
	With its rather hefty price tag, this could well qualify for joint Christmas and birthday present status… over several years. Handmade by Geoffrey Parker Games with a leather-bound case, it’s available in either red or black.

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2014 Honda Civic WTCC first view

December 3, 2013, 6:03 am

≫ Next: 2014 Saab 9-3 Aero production begins

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Honda has published the first image of the Civic that’ll be competing in next season’s World Touring Car Championship.

Built to comply with the revised 2014 technical regulations, the updated Civic features larger wheels, wider wheel arches and a bigger rear spoiler compared to its predecessor. Equally significant are the more powerful 1.6 litre turbocharged engine and a lower overall weight.

JAS Motorsport continues to run the two works entries with an unchanged driver line-up of Gabriele Tarquini and Tiago Monteiro. Privateers Mehdi Bennani and Norbert Michelisz are also due to appear on the grid, but their Civics will be prepared by Proteam Racing and Zengo Motorsport respectively.

The 2014 WTCC season begins in Morocco on the 6th of April.

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2014 Saab 9-3 Aero production begins

December 4, 2013, 5:44 am

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Two years since Saab filed for bankruptcy, new owner National Electric Vehicle Sweden has recommenced production of the 9-3 Aero Sedan in Trollhättan.

Although the plan is to launch an electric-powered version in spring 2014, for now the 9-3 comes with a 217 bhp (161 kW / 220 PS) 2.0 litre turbocharged petrol engine and a choice of manual or automatic transmissions. No performance or efficiency figures have been released yet.

It’s certainly an ambitious project. While some parallels with MG Rover are hard to avoid - well-known small European brand goes bust; its assets get bought by the Chinese - the outcomes are very different. The NEVS strategy for the 9-3 assumes an increasing number of buyers will want electric vehicle technology, but they won’t mind it in a fairly elderly design.

That could explain why China is going to be Saab’s main market. The 9-3 remains an attractive-looking car, and some of its age-related shortcomings aren’t going to matter so much there. Demand can be managed to a degree, too. Indeed, NEVS’ partner and part-owner Qingdao has already placed an order for 200 units.

The 9-3 is also being offered in Sweden, where prices for the petrol version start from SEK 279,000 (around £26,200 or €31,600 at current exchange rates). To avoid the hassle of having to re-establish a dealer network, sales will be online only.

Don’t expect to see many on the roads right away, though. Wisely, NEVS is initially restricting 9-3 build volume to just ten cars per week to ensure its supply chain and manufacturing processes are working properly.

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Images © NEVS.

2014 Formula One calendar finalised

December 4, 2013, 11:53 am

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The FIA World Motor Sport Council has announced an updated 2014 Formula One World Championship calendar, which now comprises 19 rounds instead of the 22 originally envisaged.

Of the four proposed new venues, only Austria and Russia have made it on to the final schedule. Perhaps unsurprisingly the races in New Jersey and Mexico won’t be going ahead.

Layout of the new street circuit in Sochi, Russia.

Completing the casualty list is Korea, which disappears after four years. As for the other changes, the Grand Prix of Abu Dhabi becomes the season finale, while the events in Russia and Japan have swapped slots.

2014 FIA Formula One World Championship - Calendar
Round	Date	Event
1	16 March	Grand Prix of Australia (Melbourne)
2	30 March	Grand Prix of Malaysia (Sepang)
3	06 April	Grand Prix of Bahrain (Sakhir)
4	20 April	Grand Prix of China (Shanghai)
5	11 May	Grand Prix of Spain (Barcelona)
6	25 May	Grand Prix of Monaco (Monte Carlo)
7	08 June	Grand Prix of Canada (Montreal)
8	22 June	Grand Prix of Austria (Spielberg)
9	06 July	Grand Prix of Great Britain (Silverstone)
10	20 July	Grand Prix of Germany (Hockenheim)
11	27 July	Grand Prix of Hungary (Budapest)
12	24 August	Grand Prix of Belgium (Spa-Francorchamps)
13	07 September	Grand Prix of Italy (Monza)
14	21 September	Grand Prix of Singapore (Marina Bay)
15	05 October	Grand Prix of Japan (Suzuka)
16	12 October	Grand Prix of Russia (Sochi)
17	02 November	Grand Prix of USA (Austin)
18	09 November	Grand Prix of Brazil (São Paulo)
19	23 November	Grand Prix of Abu Dhabi (Yas Marina)

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2014/2015 Formula E calendar finalised

December 4, 2013, 3:34 pm

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The inaugural FIA Formula E Championship for electric-powered single-seaters has been confirmed by the FIA World Motor Sport Council.

Ten rounds appear on the calendar, with the series set to visit Asia, South America, North America and Europe. All will be staged on temporary urban or city-centre tracks.

Each event, including the practice and qualifying sessions, is scheduled to take place over a single day. During the race, drivers will make two mandatory pit stops to swap cars, thereby ensuring battery packs have enough charge to allow competitive racing.

2014/2015 FIA Formula E Championship - Calendar
Round	Date	Venue
1	13 September 2014	Beijing, China
2	18 October 2014	Putrajaya, Malaysia
3	15 November 2014	Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
4	13 December 2014	Punta del Este, Uruguay
5	10 January 2015	Buenos Aires, Argentina
6	14 February 2015	Los Angeles, United States
7	14 March 2015	Miami, United States
8	09 May 2015	Monte Carlo, Monaco
9	30 May 2015	Berlin, Germany
10	27 June 2015	London, Great Britain

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Infiniti Q50 Eau Rouge concept teased

December 6, 2013, 10:00 am

≫ Next: 2014 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 4x4 launched

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Infiniti has released a teaser shot of a new concept that’ll be unveiled at next month’s North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

Called the Q50 Eau Rouge, it’s essentially a preview of what a high performance version of Infiniti’s recently-launched sports saloon might look like. Although the concept features aerodynamically-enhanced bodywork, there’s no word yet on any performance upgrades.

That name, of course, is taken from the infamous high-speed corner on the Belgian Spa-Francorchamps circuit. Doubtless it was chosen to help remind everyone of Infiniti’s association with the Red Bull Racing Formula One team.

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2014 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 4x4 launched

December 7, 2013, 11:57 am

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The new Sprinter 4x4 is aimed at users who need to carry people or cargo over rough terrain in all weathers. Public utility operators, construction companies and the emergency services are obvious examples, but it could also serve as the terrific basis for a go-anywhere campervan.

Offered in panel van, minibus, crew cab and chassis cab guises, the Sprinter 4x4 features an on-demand, button-activated all-wheel drive system that divides torque between the front and rear axles on a 35% / 65% split. This works in conjunction with the 4ETS electronic traction device, which is fitted instead of mechanical differential locks, and the Sprinter’s always-on adaptive electronic stability program.

To help make the most of that set-up, extra ground clearance is provided by a higher ride height. However, for more serious off-road driving a low range reduction gear, hill-start assist, deep-tread tyres and hill descent control are all on the options list.

Buyers have a choice of 2.15 litre four-cylinder or 3.0 litre six-cylinder diesel engines. The former comes with either 127 bhp (95 kW / 129 PS) or 161 bhp (120 kW / 163 PS), while the latter produces 187 bhp (140 kW / 190 PS). Gross vehicle weights of 3.5 or 5.0 tonnes can be specified.

Although UK prices have yet to be confirmed, in Germany the 4x4 versions of the Sprinter carry a premium of €8,391 (plus VAT).

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Volkswagen Touareg X limited edition

December 8, 2013, 12:57 pm

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To celebrate ten years since the Touareg SUV’s launch, Volkswagen has unveiled a special model for North America. Appropriately called the Touareg X, production will be limited to just 1,000 units.

Based on the existing TDI Lux trim grade, it boasts some unique features. These comprise 19” ‘Moab’ alloy wheels, engineered ebony wood interior trim, exclusive aluminium doorsill scuff plates and commemorative badges.

That’s not all though because LED taillights, LED interior lighting, a black cabin headliner, a piano black centre console, aluminium-appearance pedal covers and door-mounted puddle lights are also fitted. The sole colour scheme available is Moonlight Blue Pearl paintwork with black leather upholstery.

The Touareg X is powered by a 3.0 litre V6 turbo diesel engine which comes connected to an eight-speed automatic transmission. In the United States, its price has been set at $56,170.

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2014 Audi R18 e-tron quattro first view

December 9, 2013, 5:20 am

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Audi has released a first image of the R18 e-tron quattro, the LMP1 car it hopes will be good enough to retain both the manufacturers’ and drivers’ titles in next season’s FIA World Endurance Championship.

Despite bearing the same name as its predecessor, the latest R18 is very different thanks to some major technical regulation changes.

For 2014, the focus for LMP1 competitors will be on maximising efficiency without losing performance. That’s because fuel allocations are going to vary according to whether their cars use petrol or diesel and the strength of any hybrid systems.

Other amendments include the introduction of rear crash structures, wheel tethers, higher seating positions and larger windscreens. Cars also have to be narrower by 100 mm (3.9”).

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