Enter The Rumor Mill: Chevrolet Blue Devil Corvette to be named "ZR1"

If the sources of Motor Trend are correct, the anticipated high-performance variant of the already-powerful Chevrolet Corvette Z06 will be called the "ZR1". Codenamed the "Blue Devil", the ZR1 will vow at next year's North American International Auto Show in Detroit. The "ZR1" marque was first implemented in a 370 horsepower variant of the 1971 Corvette. It was later revived in 1990.

The ZR1 will pack a supercharged 6.2L small block V8 that is currently used in the Z06. However, sources say the ZR1 might go up as high as 700 horsepower. It will definitely be higher than 505 horsepower, the current level of the Z06. The ZR1 is expected to arrive in showrooms late next year as a 2009 model, and will carry a higher price tag than its Z06 brother.

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BUSTED!: Saleen Co. fined $700,000 for selling uncertified cars in California

Saleen has made accordance with the Air Resources Board at a settlement of over $700,000USD for selling cars that did not meet California emission regulations. More than 100 examples of Saleen vehicles are affected. An ARB investigation found out that Saleen has been selling three models that were not certified by ARB. The affected models are: 2004-2005 N20 (based on the Focus), 2004-2005 S121 (also based on the Focus) and the 2005 S281 (based on the Mustang).

The required recall has already gone underway at no charge. The pictured model is the N20, one of the affected models.

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Frankfurt: 2008 Ford Kuga

The Kuga has been unleashed. The Blue Oval has released all the official goods on its latest crossover that will vow in Frankfurt next week. The Kuga, based closely on the Iosis-X Concept, will only be available in Europe. That's a pity because the Kuga is a real looker. The Kuga is penned upon the Kinetic Design theme that started out with the Iosis Concept.

The Kuga is powered by a Duratorq 2.0L diesel that produces 136 horsepower. No further details were announced on the availability of other engine options, but the diesel is speculated to be the top-seller in its home market. Other nifty features the Kuga houses include optional 19-inch chrome wheels, a Blaupunkt navigation system and Intelligent 4WD. The Kuga is destined for showrooms in early 2008. For now, an official press release and a hi-res image gallery ought to satisfy you, after the jump.

[Source: Ford]



PRESS RELEASES:

FRANKFURT PREVIEW FOR NEW FORD KUGA CROSSOVER

COLOGNE, Germany, September 5, 2007 – Ford is releasing the first details of its new Kuga crossover at the 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show, where the car will be previewed ahead of production early in 2008. The Kuga will be previewed alongside the new Ford Verve Concept small car and other exciting new products yet to be revealed on the show's first press day, September 11th.

The All-New Ford Kuga in Brief

-Stylish Ford Kuga crossover will be previewed at Frankfurt Motor Show in near production form ahead of sales launch in early 2008
-Inspired by the iosis X Concept that was revealed at the 2006 Paris Motor Show
-Kuga is the latest showcase for Ford's 'kinetic design'
-Impressive on-road driving dynamics with substantial off-road ability
-Model range features 'intelligent' 4WD and FWD systems
-Powered by Ford's acclaimed 2.0-litre 136 PS Duratorq TDCi diesel engine
-Benefits from strong Ford Focus lineage
-First crossover designed and developed in-house by Ford of Europe
-To be produced at Ford's Saarlouis plant in Germany

Ford of Europe's product portfolio is expanding again – and in another new direction. The new Ford Kuga is an exciting 4WD crossover that combines style with technology and promises impressive on-road dynamics coupled with substantial off-road ability.

The new Ford Kuga will go on sale throughout Europe during the first half of 2008. "When we unveiled the stunning iosis X Concept car at the 2006 Paris Motor Show I promised that in less than two years we would enter this segment with an all-new vehicle developed and built in-house," said John Fleming, President and CEO, Ford of Europe.

"In delivering that promise, the commitment we also gave in Paris two years ago to add new and exciting niche vehicles to a newly energised Ford of Europe portfolio was also kept," Fleming added.

"Kuga offers a rare blend of a wagon and SUV features together with coupé-like sporting qualities," said Stephen Odell, Vice President for Marketing, Sales and Service, Ford of Europe.

"A major element of our strategy to return the Ford of Europe business to sustained profitability is the introduction of exciting new products – like Kuga – that attract new customers to the brand," explained Odell. "The S-MAX proved to us that there is demand for vehicles which offer the customer universal usability for work, leisure and family roles and where "driving pleasure" is also very important."

Unmistakably a Ford

One of the challenges of the Kuga development team was to give the vehicle Ford's acknowledged driving quality while at the same time delivering substantial off-road ability.

For this reason, the Ford Kuga will be available with an intelligent four-wheel-drive system which contributes positively to normal road use and helps give the vehicle an almost sporty dynamic ability. The fact that the Kuga will also be available as a front-wheel-drive only version simply emphasises the crossover concept of the vehicle.
Kuga's powertrain will feature Ford's established and highly fuel efficient 2.0-litre, 136 PS Duratorq TDCi common-rail diesel engine mated to a Durashift 6-speed manual transmission. Further details of the Kuga powertrain will be released closer to launch in early 2008.

Kuga Design - Standing Out

"Our kinetic design form language is very flexible and is giving an exciting look to all our new vehicles," said Martin Smith, Executive Design Director, Ford of Europe. "The iosis X Concept demonstrated how kinetic design could be adapted to the C-sized crossover segment of the market. All the expressive design elements of iosis X are clearly visible in the production vehicle. The new Ford Kuga is a dramatic addition to the Ford portfolio which develops our brand significantly."

Kuga closely follows the proportions and basic dynamic forms of the iosis X. This relationship is enhanced by the paint finish in the same unique 'Ice White' body colour and the bold wheel arches are filled with the same alloy wheels, as seen on iosis X which will be available to customers as a 19-inch option. Strength and athleticism in the design are key attributes of Ford's 'kinetic design' philosophy. Kuga demonstrates this through its dynamic lines, full surfaces and muscular presence. This athletic form language is highlighted with the bold kinetic graphics such as the trapezoidal front grills, rising belt-line and kick-up of the rear window graphic and the dramatic swept back headlamp shapes.

For the production Ford Kuga the coupé-like roof profile of the iosis X Concept has been adjusted to a slightly higher silhouette offering comfortable accommodation for five people.

The luggage compartment is accessed via a split tailgate and this, together with the divided rear lights, ensures the maximum full load width is available for loading and unloading.

Finally, the rear end design of Kuga also incorporates the graphic elements of 'kinetic design' such as the high mounted tail lamps, facetted rear glass and sculptured rear bumper. The rear bumper neatly integrates the tailpipes into the contours of the diffuser.

Kuga Interior – Space and Comfort

The interior of the new Ford Kuga has a spacious feel – and not just because of the large panoramic glass roof fitted to the preview model and available as an option in production.

The clean, ergonomic design of the instrument panel and centre stack converge into a voluminous centre console for maximum accessible storage. These interior components contribute to a comfortable surrounding for the driver and front seat passenger. The high seat and shoulder line position of the doors offers the opportunity for maximum glazed areas to give a light and airy environment for passengers and provides the driver a commanding view of their surroundings.

The materials chosen for Kuga's interior also demonstrate the close links to the iosis X Concept. In Kuga we see once again technical materials, fine leathers and striking orange piping. The Ebony interior is set off by a centre console and details in the door which also feature the piano-white finish from iosis X. All these elements together show how Ford intends to enable Kuga customers in the future to personalise their vehicle.

A hint of the technology coming in Kuga is seen in the new Blaupunkt navigation system which incorporates a 7" colour display to also show images from a rear view camera incorporated into the tailgate. This new feature, to aid reversing manoeuvres, will find its way to the production version of the Kuga.

"We're very excited about Kuga, and believe that its blend of great looks, compact exterior dimensions, superb on-road driving quality, spacious and high quality interior and good off-road ability will allow it to stand out from the crowd," said Fleming. "We can't wait to see it on and off road early next year"

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Jaguar XF to make North American debut in LA

The Jaguar XF has received an overwhelming hype from the media and the enthusiasts. The XF has gone through embargo breaches and all the pain and suffering a new launch usually meditates. The XF is scheduled to make its world premiere in Frankfurt next week. The UK pricing has also been announced. What about the Americans and its northern neighbor? The XF will make its North American premiere in the Los Angeles Auto Show in November. The US pricing will also be announced.

The US-spec XF will be available in two engines: a 300hp 4.2L V8 and a 420hp Supercharged 4.2L V8. It will be offered in three trim levels: Luxury, Premium Luxury and the Supercharged. The last of the trio will get the supercharged version. The XF replaces the S-Type, which rivaled against the BMW 5-Series and the Mercedes-Benz E-Class. It is expected to cost between $56,000 and $65,000, the norm in the segment.

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Frankfurt: Citroen C-Cactus Concept

Citroen's quirk styling continues on with the C-Cactus Concept, destined for debut at the Frankfurt Auto Show. The C-Cactus Concept is described as an "ecological hatchback with cheerful, attractive styling, equipped with a hybrid HDi drivetrain and sold at the same price as an entry-level C4." Citroen may have got the part on the design wrong. The C-Cactus will not enter production, but will be the precursor to many designs in the coming years. We're not thrilled.

The concept features a hybrid HDi drivetrain that achieves 69MPG and CO2 emissions of only 78g/km. The engine is composed of a 70hp diesel powertrain and a 30hp electric motor. Continue reading to view an official press release and a hi-res image gallery.

[Source: Citroen]



PRESS RELEASE: CITROËN C-CACTUS

A NEW ECOLOGICAL AND ATTRACTIVE
TAKE ON THE ESSENTIAL CAR

Summary

Citroën is unveiling C-Cactus at the 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show. This ingenious concept is a new take on vehicle design, centered on essential values. The Marque’s ambitious aim is to market an ecological hatchback with cheerful, attractive styling, equipped with a hybrid HDi drivetrain and sold at the same price as an entry-level C4.

To square this complex equation, Citroën is exploring new forms of design. It has decided to abandon features that are not essential to comfort and to focus instead on technology, styling and equipment that are positive, ecological and valued by users.
Essential, intelligent and ecologically aware

C-Cactus is an ecological car. It includes a significant proportion of recycled or recyclable materials and, like the plant it is named after, it is low on consumption. Weighing just 1,306 kg and featuring a hybrid HDi drivetrain, C-Cactus consumes 3.4 l/100 km for CO2 emissions of 78 g/km.

At the same time, C-Cactus is no more expensive than a mid-range family car. Its low production cost can be attributed to the use of new materials and to a rational design process using a smaller number of parts. The cabin is made up of just over 200 parts, i.e. almost half the number used by a conventional hatchback of identical size.

An attractive and modern vehicle

C-Cactus is an essential car, with sharp styling and attractive features. Its curves give it a fun look and strong appeal, while the angles and rounded lines of the bodywork underline its dynamic character.

C-Cactus sets high standards of onboard comfort with a roomy interior that is worthy of a family car. It is 4.2 metres long and 1.8 metres wide with a wide range of equipment including air conditioning with automatic temperature control, a high-quality audio system, a panoramic glass sunroof, cruise control and a speed limiter.

The economic and ingenious solutions adopted for C-Cactus keep production costs down and make it possible to fit a diesel hybrid drivetrain, all for the price of an entry-level C4. To achieve this result, C-Cactus places the emphasis on equipment that is essential to passenger comfort. At the same time, it explores new design processes in order to show that economy and ecology need not be synonymous with a rough ride.

New avenues in design

C-Cactus is the result of an intelligent design process pursuing new objectives. By exploring new forms of expression and new technical solutions, Citroën’s engineers cut the number of parts required to build the car.

To achieve this objective, the engineers:

- simplified a number of parts and mechanisms to the extreme,
- grouped several functions in a single part,
- removed all parts that are non-essential to the running of the car or to the comfort and well-being of its occupants.

The dashboard has gone, and its usual functions are now grouped on the central console and the fixed hub of the steering wheel. The central console thus includes the active loudspeakers, gearbox controls and tactile screen giving access to the onboard computer, navigation system and air conditioning controls. The controls for the indicators, lights, wipers, horn and cruise control/speed limiter are on the fixed hub of the steering wheel, as are the tachometer and lights for the indicators, headlamps and warning signals.

Another example of simplification: the part used for the front bumper, which includes the headlamps and chevrons is the same as the part making up the lower part of the tailgate at the rear. This contributes to the assertive design of C-Cactus while bringing economies of scale in production.

This simplicity is also reflected in the design of the front end, which comprises just two parts: a fixed bonnet comprising the front wings, and a flap giving access to the vehicle maintenance functions (oil, windscreen washer, etc.).

Reflecting a similar approach, using the air conditioning makes it virtually unnecessary to open the windows. A simple sliding mechanism is therefore provided, since this is sufficient in normal use. Engineers were thus able to get rid of both the window frames and the opening mechanism.

At the same time, a number of monoblock units are used for C-Cactus to reduce the overall number of parts. The door panels, for example, are made of two parts, compared with twelve in a conventional hatchback. The seats also comprise two parts: a highly comfortable, moulded, coloured, integral-skin foam part for the seat, and a solid monoblock frame to hold the foam in place and fix the seat to the floor rails. The ergonomics are excellent and - here again - the number of components is limited.

Advanced ecological features

To achieve real environmental impact, Citroën’s objective has always been to market technologies and vehicles that are affordable to the greatest number. The objective with C-Cactus is to go one step further, by bringing out a car whose hybrid HDi drivetrain makes it truly ecological car, but that can be sold at the same price as an entry-level family car.

With its diesel hybrid drivetrain combining a 70 bhp DIN HDi diesel engine with a particulate filter and an electric motor providing additional power of 30 bhp DIN, C Cactus consumes just 3.4l/100 km with CO2 emission levels of 78 g/km over a combined cycle. In urban use, ZEV (Zero Emission Vehicle) mode provides silent, all-electric operation. On journeys involving successive acceleration and deceleration, the hybrid system limits fuel consumption by using both types of energy.

Other points also help to make C-Cactus a car that respects the environment.

The solutions adopted for the design of C-Cactus also contribute to bringing down fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. Using fewer parts makes the vehicle 15% lighter than a C4 Hybride HDi for a total weight of 1,306 kg.

The tyre width has also been kept down (205/45 R21) on C-Cactus, which adds to environmental performance.

Fewer parts also means smaller quantities of raw materials. In addition, a significant part of the materials used are recycled or recyclable. The windscreen and windows, for example, are made of recyclable glass. The tyres are also recyclable, as is the crude steel used for the door panels. This metal is unpainted and unvarnished but has been treated for corrosion.

The top speed of C-Cactus has deliberately been capped at 150 kph. This choice not only contributes to the car’s good environmental performance, it also reflects Citroën’s efforts to develop a green vehicle illustrating a new approach to the car, in which the motorist is in harmony with his/her surrounding environment.
Based on the bold but rational use of parts and materials, C-Cactus is an essential vehicle reflecting a new vision of the car focused on:

- a new balance of priorities, and a design that pursues the essential without sacrificing comfort,
- a design in which ecology and economy are synonymous not with dullness, but with expression and pleasure.

Through this attractive concept with its appealing offbeat styling, Citroën has developed a new take on the economical and ecological car. A vehicle at ease with its original and ingenious design. At the same time, this is a car that brings the occupants all the features essential for their comfort.

Looking for simplicity: intelligent, fun exterior design

C-Cactus has a unique personality: appealing, modern and offbeat, with its simple shapes and mix of round, curving lines. The original styling also reflects ingenious design choices. Throughout the design process, the focus was very much on simplicity. This led to the development of ingenious solutions that contribute to the attractive offbeat design of C-Cactus.

At the front, the headlamps of C-Cactus give the vehicle an appealing air with their rounded and slightly angular forms. They are underlined by two cylindrical air intakes cut out of the bumper, above an air intake grille of modern design which, while contributing to the vehicle’s rounded forms, also adds a muscular energetic touch. The raised bonnet and two air intakes also contribute to the dynamic looks of C Cactus.

The vehicle’s rounded forms are reflected in its profile. The dynamic design lines are accentuated by the forward flowing roof line and the asymmetric doors made of crude steel that has been treated for corrosion.

The doors feature an original cut-out since the fixed windows remove a number of the constraints that usually apply to design. Shaped to provide easy access to the interior, they give C-Cactus a curving, sleekly muscled appearance. The use of crude steel treated for corrosion, but without paint or varnish, contributes to savings in production costs while giving a strong, contemporary look.

The high waistline and 21-inch wheels also underline the strong character of C Cactus.

The wheels were the focus of particular attention. Large-diameter wheels and low-profile tyres have become key styling features in vehicles of strong, contemporary design.

Citroën worked with Michelin on the development of low-profile tyres with a large diameter and limited width. The low ground friction area limits fuel consumption and, at the same time, tyre production costs are kept under control since the manufacturing process requires only a small amount of rubber.

For new and even more original styling, these specially designed tyres feature a green pattern on a white background printed inside a wide groove spanning the entire tread.

The same styling codes can be seen at the rear, where a combination of curves and taut lines illustrate the car’s dynamic and appealing personality. The chevrons identify this car as a Citroën. The name “Cactus” appears in relief on the bottom of the tailgate, in a young, smooth, modern printface.

The rear lights, which resemble the headlamps in shape, boast an innovative feature: cut-outs in the interior plastic that let the driver see through. This innovation considerably increases the driver’s field of vision and may be particularly useful in manoeuvres, for example.

Fewer features for greater impact: a welcoming, attractive and cleverly designed interior

C-Cactus is also an original and ingenious car on the inside. The design cut-outs, choice of materials, patterns and colours give the cabin a minimalist, attractive and airy look.

The cabin materials reflect innovative choices. Their quality is immediately visible. Looking beyond their appearance, they are also economical and ecological. For example, cork is used for many decorative parts, as well as for the air vents and air conditioning panel. The floor features a pattern in recycled leather. The white lacquer finish of some parts and the visual effects created by the materials used contribute to the original design and perceived quality of the cabin.

Another key idea was to enhance the offbeat styling of C-Cactus by reducing the number of parts and the quantity of materials used for the decor.

Non-essential parts, such as the dashboard, are absent, while some of the parts that are usually hidden have been included in the decor. This is the case, for example, of the steering column, air conditioning ducts and the grid for fore-and-aft adjustment of the front seats. These features add a modern and original touch to the cabin. The refill for the scented air freshener is also visible. It contributes to the attractive appearance of the cabin, while enabling the driver to see how much is left.

The decor has not been put in. It has been created by removing material. This idea of decorating “in a vacuum” is reflected in the patterns present on the door panels and seat frames. The patterns cut-out in the door panels show the apple green felt inserted between panel and metal. The main role of this part is to soundproof the vehicle, but its colour and cut-outs make it an integral part of the décor.

The same flower, plant and butterfly patterns - symbolising the environment, purity and well-being - are also found on several other cabin features. They are cut out, for example, in the white lacquer seat frame. These cut-outs show the coloured foam used for the seat cushions and give it a decorative quality.
Pertinent choices for an easy and enjoyable ride

C-Cactus boasts advanced equipment, optimised on-board space and modular design at an affordable price. Passengers have all the comfort essential to their well-being.

First, the ignition key of C-Cactus is a portable MP3 player with a touch screen. When it is plugged into the fixed hub of the steering wheel, it is recognised by the vehicle which can then be started.

The fixed-hub steering wheel includes a wide variety of functions. In addition to the usual controls, it also includes the speedometer, which is of an unusual design. The figures, placed in relief around the hub, rotate according to speed and are positioned with respect to a fixed point.

A second touch screen on the central console includes a navigation system to guide the driver on the road. It also serves as an onboard computer. This equipment endows C-Cactus with high-tech advanced features while also keeping costs down, since functions are grouped together.

The central console features two powerful high-quality active loudspeakers that provide C-Cactus with an excellent sound system. Their ingenious layout limits both wiring and installation costs.

Generous interior space ensures passenger comfort. C-Cactus boasts the dimensions of a family car (4.2 metres long and 1.8 metres wide) with a generous and modular boot (between 500 and 1,100 litres).

The rear seat, placed on a rail, slides up against the front seats. The floor pan, which is integral with the rear bench, also slides forward to reveal a subfloor. This reveals a virtually flat surface area to load bulky objects.

Another ingenious feature is a clip-on bag on the passenger side. This replaces the glovebox and can be used to carry objects outside the car.

For comfort and styling, C-Cactus features a panoramic glass sunroof that lets the light flood into the cabin.

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Lincoln to drop Mark LT after MY2008

After Ford's luxury arm, Lincoln, made the abrupt decision to market a successor to the disastrous Blackwood, the successor is apparently on the chopping block as well. The Mark LT, aka the tarted up Ford F-150, performed sluggishly in sales and Lincoln only saw a declining future for the one that could have been just a few decades ago. The Mark LT will be discontinued after the 2008 model year.

As of now, no official word from the executives has emerged. However, a reliable source of Automotive News stated that they are certain the deal will be made. Lincoln speculated to sell 20,000 units of the faux-bling pickup, but vastly missed the target to a mere 12,753 units. Since its market release in 2005 as a 2006 model, Lincoln only managed to sell 28,117 units.

[Source: Automotive News]

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Dodge Challenger not coming to Europe

The neoclassical pony-car era has already begun in North America with the redesign of the Mustang in 2005. The General is preparing for the release of the revived Camaro for the 2009 model year. The folks over at Auburn Hills are planning the debut of the revival of the Challenger at the Chicago Auto Show in 2008. So while we are impatiently anticipating the comparison test of the trio by Motor Trend, the Europeans won't even get a chance to experience the fun. At least with the Dodge Challenger that is.

The Challenger has been confirmed to not arrive in European showrooms. To make matters worse, the "new" Chrysler plans to make the car limited-production. Unlike the Ford Mustang, the Challenger is likely to bear a premium price tag and limited availability. The new owners of Chrysler, Cerberus Capital Management, made the heart-wrenching move.

The Challenger will be introduced on the 15th of next February in the Windy City, and will commence production later that year in the Brampton facility. Spy photos have assured that the production version will stay very akin to the concept.

[Source: Motor Authority]

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