The CMT-380 Hybrid Concept Comes Complete With Jet Turbine

Small companies are developing electric supercars with Ferrari-rivalling performance may possibly seem fairly common these days, and the most recent entrant into this niche market segment--Capstone Turbine--seems determined to follow in the footsteps of other fledgling electric car start-ups.

Capstone Turbine is pushing traditional hybrid and electric vehicle barriers with the introduction of the CMT-380, a high-performance, hybrid supercar powered by lithium-polymer batteries and an ultra-low emission, range-extending microturbine engine.

Yes, you read it exactly. The CMT-380 features an ultra-clean as well as quiet jet engine under the hood of the borrowed Factory Five Racing GTM body.

Through this unique powertrain combination on board, the CMT-380 is claimed to be capable of traveling from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.9 seconds, reach a top speed of 150 mph and drive more than 500 miles on a single tank of fuel.

The microturbine engine develops about 40 hp (horsepower) and runs on diesel or biodiesel. The set-up features an electric generator as well as turbine components mounted on a single shaft that are supported by air bearings. So there are no liquids to lubricate or cool the microturbine.

It is so clean that it does not require any exhaust after treatment to meet stringent clean air requirements of the California Air Resources Board or EPA 2010.

While driving, the car can operate on 100% battery power in zero-emissions mode for a range of up to 80 miles. As soon as the batteries reach a pre-determined state of discharge, the microturbine quietly fires up and recharges the batteries on the fly to extend the driving range up to 500 miles similar to the set-up used by the upcoming Chevrolet Volt and most other range-extended plug-in hybrid vehicles.

Electronic Arts Chief Creative Director Richard Hilleman, who is the creator of popular video games, developed the concept for the high-performance hybrid-electric microturbine vehicle with support from Capstone Turbine, who is the world's leading clean technology manufacturer of microturbine energy systems.

The project is still in the concept phase and will be wholly on display at this week’s 2009 Los Angeles Auto Show.

Porsche Cayman X-Wide by XTR Carchip (2010)

The German tuner XTR Carchip Tuning has unveiled this 2006 Porsche Cayman "987" S with a wide body kit and a couple of engine modifications. The body has a front spoiler with carbon splitter, carbon fibre mirrors, side skirts, rear side panels and detachable GRP fenders. The Pirelli tyres are wrapped around 3-piece 18-inch BBS RS wheels with central locking. The suspension was upgraded and a new Super Sprint "Magnum" exhaust system.

The interior features a new carbon fibre dashboard, 6-point seatbelts for the Recaro GT3 seats, a safety roll cage, air conditioning and the original factory audio system.

The Power has been increased from 217kW (295hp) to 228kW (310hp) though some slight engine chip tuning. Though this is quite a modest gain, XTR has given assurances that come spring 2010 a prescription that includes twin turbos will lead to a push of about 625kW (850hp).

Regarding the looks, the Cayman is intended for the street with some hobby track racing on the side.

The Kicherer SLS 63 CP Conceptualized

German tuners Kicherer, the second design team to release their plans for a Pan-Am version of the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG. Even though beaten to the punch by Gullwing America, Kicherer have added some touches to stand out.

The engineers strived to keep much of the stock AMG's shape, in spite of their attempt to make an "even more sporty version." Seen on the car are a new front lip spoiler, larger front intakes, a roof-mounted air intake, and rear diffuser. Each of the new pieces was made from carbon fiber.

Also included is a stainless steel grille, which may also come in a gold tone. A stainless steel, quad-pipe exhaust was also mounted and the car sits on lightweight, three-part 20-inch wheels. Performance upgrades will also be available for the 6.3-liter V8-engined vehicle, but details were not provided.

The Lamborghini Gallardo LP 560-4 by ENCO Exclusive

ENCO Exclusive has unveiled a new styling as well as performance package for the Lamborghini Gallardo LP 560-4.

The German-based tuner offers a range of carbon fiber exterior components such as a front bumper (€2990), a front splitter (€990), a boot cover (€3990), and aggressive side skirts (€3990). Other goodies comprise a carbon fiber laminate for the rear diffuser, mirrors and boot lid vents (€4000) as well as a matt black foil wrap (€3000).

In the interior, ENCO offers faux carbon fiber trim for the steering wheel, central console, dashboard, handbrake along with a door handles (€5000).

If you find all this a tad vulgar, you may want to check out ENCO's performance package for the 5.2-liter V10. Though details are limited, it enables the engine to produce 620 hp and 575 Nm of torque (instead of 560 hp and 540 of torque).

The 2010 Dodge Viper SRT10 Debuts Ahead of Los Angeles Show

The Dodge Viper has always been a raw sports car with very little frivolities. The 2010 Dodge Viper SRT10 continues that tradition with negligible changes.

For 2010, Dodge has made very little changes to its sports car. The same 600-hp, 8.4-liter V-10 engine that debuted in the 2008 model remains unaffected. This means the Viper’s incredible performance statistics continue the same as well; 0 to 60 mph in less than 4 seconds and a quarter mile time in the mid-11-second range. The similar 14-inch Brembo brakes make their way on the 2010 model, allowing the Viper to stop from 60 mph in less than 100 feet.

In fact, the 2009 Viper was so outrageous already; Dodge felt it only needed to improve two things, the interior as well as transmission. A new premium tan Nappa leather interior option has been added for 2010, providing the customer a choice other than a combination of black along with contrasting stitching. The transmission was also upgraded for 2010. By using a ZF Sachs twin-disc clutch moreover Dodge has lowered the clutch’s rotating inertia by 18 %, reduced pedal effort, and improved engagement feel.

In addition the Viper lineup with the introduction of the 2008 model was the Viper ACR, a hardcore track version of the outrageous sports car. Last year, the sports car was able to snag the Corvette ZR1’s Nürburgring record. This time, the Dodge crew took the 2010 Viper ACR back to Laguna Seca Raceway in California to recapture the production car lap record. With a time of 1:33.915, the team drove away with the mission accomplished.

The 2010 model year marks the previous year of production for the Viper in its current form. Dodge estimates production for the 2010 model year will be about 500 units. With Chrysler’s recent bankruptcy and change of ownership and it remains to be seen what will happen with the Viper as the production of the 2010 model ceases.

The 2010 Saleen 435S Mustang

The 2010 Saleen 435S Mustang is another kind of automobile that is out in the market today. At present it is distributed by the company that goes by the name of Saleen Inc. It is based on the existing 2010 Ford Mustang. The 2010 Saleen 435S Mustang is a limited edition two-door coupe, modified car. It has a front engine, a 4600 cc displacement and is charged with 435 horsepower. With a 5-speed manual transmission, the 2010 Saleen 435S Mustang is a one of a kind vehicle. It weighs around 3401 lbs and is approximately 188.1 inches in length. This car is slightly lower than the Mustang GT because of its Saleen Racecraft suspension. The design provides precise handling and better traction.

The 2010 Saleen 435S Mustang is designed to give a high-value performance automobile at a reasonable price. This car has a 4.6 liter, 3-valve SOHC V8 engine. The engine produces its horsepower (hp) and the 425 lb-ft torque. If you are a car enthusiast, you will certainly want one of these automobile. Having one of this will give you the pleasure that a race car driver on a real-world road would wish for.

The PIECHA Mercedes-Benz C-Class Estate (2010)

The 2010 PIECHA Mercedes-Benz C-Class Estate comes with a new aerodynamics package that includes a headlight mask set made of PU-RIM and the front spoiler lip which in addition is effortlessly mounted on the AMG styling front spoiler. Custom-fit daytime running light elements which are delivered ready to install and might be very easily exchanged for the original grille together with fog lamps have been integrated into the AMG styling front apron. For each and every 6-cylinder models Piecha also offers the likelihood to make a conversion to the original C63 AMG exhaust system.

To lend the grandiose 4-pipe look the necessary kick, Piecha has now also developed and installed a power converter for the C-Class. Exclusive Piecha dp2 Phantom wheels with a press-fitted stainless steel rim well polished to high gloss turn in the wheel housings and the 2010 Piecha Design Mercedes-Benz C-Class Estate wheel/tyre combination not only gives you a perfect grip conditions, but also an enhanced sporty look in the format 8.5 x 19 ET38 with 225/35 ZR19 in the front also 9.5 x 19 ET45 with 255/30 ZR19 Dunlop Sport Maxx in the back. The lower suspension setting of the chassis is taken over by custom-built sports performance springs which are optionally obtainable with a 20mm or 35mm lower suspension setting.

The 2010 HEICO SPORTIV Volvo C30 1.6D DRIVe

The Volvo tuner HEICO SPORTIV has unveiled the new tuning program for the latest 2010 Volvo C30 1.6D DRIVe Facelift. The reprogramming of the original engine control unit generates a highest power of 92 kW/125 bhp (for the 80 kW/109 bhp model) and maximum torque of 280 Nm (240 Nm). Thus, the Volvo C30 1.6D DRIVe does 0 to 100 kmph in just 9.2 seconds, thrashing its series-produced counterpart by 2.1 seconds! A maximum speed of 200 kmph is also possible, 10 kmph faster than the series version.

The HEICO SPORTIV Volvo C30 1.6D DRIVe features a remodel design elements at the front and rear. The HEICO SPORTIV front spoiler – which replaces the original lower base section of the bumper – consists of fiber-strengthened polyurethane and is fixed using the existing anchorage points. That similarity applies to the rear valence which mimics the front spoiler’s laterally arranged air vents and it also has a centrally placed diffuser element. The rear valence serves to hold the HEICO SPORTIV four pipe stainless steel exhaust system.

The Volvo C30 1.6D DRIVe is available from HEICO SPORTIV with a starting price tag of ca. EUR 29,900; the parts will naturally also be deliverable individually since spring 2010.

2010 Ford Fiesta S2000 Rally Car

The new Ford Fiesta S2000 rally sports car has been unveiled at a launch ceremony at M-Sport’s Cumbrian base in the UK. The latest Ford Fiesta S2000 rally car will be eligible to contend in national rally championships around the world as well as the IRC and S2000 World Cup, is due for homologation in Jan. 2010.

Enduring their close relationship with Ford, the team at M-Sport has worked in tandem with Ford’s Motorsport Technical Manager Mike Norton and the Ford tiny car design team that developed the acclaimed kinetic design of the Ford Fiesta road car, to develop a dynamic as well as aggressive looking rally car.

The experience gained from developing the record breaking Focus RS WRC has been used by the M-Sport team to develop the Fiesta S2000 rally car though working within the new FIA Sporting Regulations which means that this car may be used by consumers at both national and international level.

The Fiesta S2000 has previously completed nearly 3,000 km of testing both in the UK and Europe and that extensive testing program will go on into the start of the next year in readiness for the car’s competitive debut.

The Fiesta S2000 is the newest in a long line of rally cars produced as a result of the successful partnership among M-Sport and Ford, starting with the Escort Cosworth in the 1990s and moving on to the record breaking Ford Focus RS WRC as well as Ford Fiesta ST.

The 2010 Brabus Mercedes-Benz Viano Business Light Concept

The 2010 Brabus Mercedes-Benz Viano Business Light Concept is another ground-breaking and newly developed car model from the world renowned car authority Mercedes. This car model is widely known as the Brabus Light Concept, differentiating it from other Brabus models that have literally plagued the car and automobile industry through storm due to its power and speed along with its overall versatility. This Brabus Light Concept features a 6.1 liter capacity V8 engine, a 5400 rpm, a 426 hp (horsepower) capability and a 69.8 hp per liter feature.

This 2010 Brabus Mercedes-Benz Viano Business Light Concept will take up the speeds of 0 to 62 miles per hour or 0 to 100 kilometers per hour in as fast as 5.9 seconds, well inside the normal 6 seconds for most cars as well as automobiles out there in the market as of today. With a torque of 458 pounds per feet at 4100 rpm (revolutions per minute) with regard to the tires and a highest speed that has been electronically locked at 155 miles per hour, this is really another magnificent addition to the Brabus family from the Mercedes brand of powerful and high-speed moving cars available not only in the United States but also in various parts of Asia, Australia, Africa also in Middle East as of today.

Learn How To Pick Up The Right Car Shipping Company

Many people think of driving their vehicle from one part of the country to another and stay away from the services of an auto transport company. They do not understand how difficult it is to drive from one country to another. A few of the problems they may face while driving is they can’t sleep properly. However if they take help of car shipping company to transport their car from one place to another they can avail various benefits. A few of them are insurance for your car is provided, get delivery of the car within a few days, car is protected from several elements like rain, heat, storm etc.

Any type of car can be transported whether it might be a classic car, expensive car, an exotic car or just the family car you can search for a car shipping company that can fit your needs and budget. There are shipping companies who can ship your car anywhere in the country or the world based on your requirements. When you go to look up a car transport company they are usually listed under car transport, vehicle shipping or auto transport. Though hiring the services of auto Transport Company you have to consider certain factors.

Some of the things that have to find out regarding the company are whether they are bonded, how long they have been in business, and what kind of services they recommend and what the total cost will be. You have to give some information to the company like what type of car do you have, its beginning and destination and the departure date. They will ask you what type of service you need.

Whether you want terminal to terminal, door to door, open car transport or enclosed shipping service. Door to door shipping means they will lift up the car from your residence and deliver it to your new residence. There is terminal to terminal which is where you take it to a shipping locality at the area of departure and pick it up at a shipping location at the region of arrival. The shipping location might be a truck, train or shipping terminal. Choose whether you want your car to be transported covered or uncovered.

For each type of service, charge will also be different. In open car transport your car will be uncovered to various elements like sun, snow, rain, storm which may damage your car. But one benefit is shipping cost will be low. Enclosed car transport means your car will be sheltered from elements like sun, snow, rain etc. However for this service; transportation cost will be a bit high.

Some companies may ask their customer to make full payment up front and some will want a deposit and then the rest of the payment when the car is delivered. Do find out whether company will cover any difficulty that is caused if your car is not delivered on time. Most companies will cover the charge of a rental car if the delivery of your car is delayed. One more thing to keep in mind is before the transport company picks up your car do get a certified inspection done from them. Take a snapshot of the car also. Do take note of the damage if any in the car and what the existing mileage on the car is on the day of pick up.

The 2010 Brabus Mercedes-Benz SV12 R

The 2010 Brabus Mercedes-Benz SV12 R is an another famous “Brabus” models brought into the market by one of the most if not the most trusted automobile manufacturer as of today namely the Mercedes name. Also known as the Brabus Roadster, this 2010 car model features all of the distinctive capabilities such as an almighty and extremely powerful 6.3 liter capacity V12 engine that can literally cope up with any and all forms of roads and dirt that can be encountered by vehicle owners. With its twin turbochargers of aspiration, a very optimum 740 horsepower (hp) capability and a 117.5 hp per liter feature, this Brabus Roadster is truly a most powerful and high performing vehicles available in the market.

This 2010 Brabus Mercedes-Benz SV12 R can accelerate from 0 to 62 miles per hour or from 0 to 100 kilometers per hour in a matter of 4 seconds, a feature that makes it superior to any other car that may be deemed as its competitor in the commercial market. With a top speed of 217 miles per hour (mph) or 350 kilometers per hour (kmph), this Brabus roadster not only boasts of its power but also its speed among the numerous available 2010 car models.

The 2010 Techart GTstreet RS

The Techart GTstreet RS is based on Porsche 911 GT2.The Techart GTstreet RS make employ of TECHART’s TA097/T2.2 performance kit, a high performance rating of 700 hp and 515 kW with a highest torque of 860 Nm is on call. This performance is achieved due to the use of modified turbochargers, enlarged carbon intake manifolds, especially developed intercoolers; valve-controlled sports exhaust system united with high performance headers, a modified pressure sensor and a sports air filter. The Techart GTstreet aerodynamic package’s top flight performance capacity is obvious in the wind tunnel: 10 kg downforce on the front and rear axles respectively at 140 km/h.

The Techart GTstreet RS front apron has a carbon splitter. Air ducts denote that cooling air can escape directly behind the cooler via the recently created air outlet, bringing a considerable reduction in lift on the front axle. By raising the downforce, side carbon flaps enhance this effect. The comprehensive modifications build the sports car with the aerodynamic hood, headlight trim; mirror trim, side skirts as well as carbon roof spoiler react with tip-top precision.

The 2010 Carlsson Mercedes-Benz E-CK63 RS

This proud product of the Mercedes-Benz name features a 6.2 liter capacity V8 all powerful engine, a natural aspiration, a 585 hp or horsepower capability, 94.4 horse power per liter feature and the standard ability to accelerate from 0 to 62 miles per hour or 100 kilometers per hour in just 4.5 seconds. Stylishness and simplicity combined into one car, that is the phrase that can best express this innovative and state of the art car model brought into the commercial market under the Mercedes-Benz franchise.

This 2010 Carlsson Mercedes-Benz E-CK63 car model features all of the safety, security and balance that only the Mercedes-Benz brand can offer. From the lights to the wheels to the interior up to the exterior, every inch of this wonderful and astonishing Carlsson model really deserves to be of the uppermost quality amongst its competitor models available in the market.

It also features the luxury as well as lavishness that can only be found in Mercedes made cars and automobiles and nowhere else. As a member of the E-Class of vehicles and cars, the Mercedes-Benz Carlsson model for 2010 truly is one of the best if not the best car available for the use and utilization of each one.

Car transport and 101 tips to transport your car

Car transportation has gained lots of importance nowadays, which is because people have to rely on auto transportation to ship or transport their vehicles. If an individual needs to move out of his city and if he desires to take his vehicle with him, then he can transport his vehicle by means of a vehicle or car transport company.

The introduction of the car transport services has been beneficial for people who desire to transport their vehicles. But then it becomes really essential to check out for a reliable car transport company. This is because your vehicle is a valuable asset and needs proper care.

There are certain conditions or tasks to be completed by the customer before he hands over his vehicle to us. It is really very important to stipulate the details of your vehicle. Sometimes your vehicle may contain any damaged component or it may have dangling parts please specify it beforehand, so that we may be able to give extra care for those parts.

If your vehicle or car contains detachable parts, it is better to take away those before you send the vehicle to the car transport company. Inform all the essential details to obtain a precise quote.

Today there is lots of car transport companies choosing the best are like picking a needle out of a hay stack. So to select the best car transport company you should do a lot of homework, like investigating the details of the company, asks your friends who have shifted earlier.

Using a car transport company to ship your vehicle makes a lot of sense. After all, they are the experts and nearly everyone have plenty of experience.

Related links:

101 tips to transport your car

Citroen will a launch new electric car

The new Citroen electric car C-Zero is developed in collaboration with the Japanese carmaker and like the iMiEV, the rebadged model operates on the identical 64bhp lithium battery.

The fully electric model produces 180Nm of torque obtainable from 0 to 2,000rpm. With a top speed of 80mph, the C-Zero be capable of accelerate to 62mph in 15 seconds. An overall range of 80 miles means that this small electric car suits a large number of city commutes.

The owners can plug the supply cord into an ordinary household 220 volt socket with a complete charge taking roughly 6 hours. Around 80 % charge is possible in just 30 minute using a 400V charge.

With 4 real seats thanks to a 2.55m wheelbase and a 166 litre boot, the C-ZERO is comes complete with a lot of the equipment of any respectable supermini. Standard fit features include power steering, ABS, traction control, ESP, electric windows, six airbags plus air conditioning.

Citroen’s electric edition is set to launch in the end of 2010.

The Lexus LFA (2011)

The new Lexus LFA marks an essential moment in both the history of Lexus and the development of the supercar. A true “clean-sheet” design, the Lexus LFA was produced by a small, passionate also a dedicated team of engineers whose achievement has been to push the boundaries of technologies materials as well as engineering at every stage to produce a car similar to no other to have carried the Lexus badge.

The heart of the Lexus LFA is a bespoke, naturally aspirated V10 engine that sets latest standards for compact dimensions, lightweight architecture as well as scintillating performance. From the outset it was determined the engine must have a 4,805cc capacity, develop 552bhp and rev towards a wailing 9,000rpm red line. A 72 degree angle between the cylinder heads is been ideal for achieving balance in the engine for exceptionally smooth running, though providing individual, electronically controlled throttle bodies for each cylinder gives excellent throttle response.

The Lexus LFA’s acoustics, induction system and exhaust notes have been especially tuned to deliver an outstanding “soundtrack” that expresses the car’s extreme performance, both outside as well as inside the cabin. Referred to by the acoustic team as “Octave Harmony”, it is motivated by the sound of a Formula 1 engine at full revs and is not like that of any other road car, with different harmonic qualities created as the engine moves up towards its maximum 9,000rpm.

The Lexus LFA has one of the most advanced as well as powerful braking systems fitted to any production car, appropriate to meet up the demands of its 200mph-plus performance capabilities.

The Lexus LFA boasts class-leading aerodynamics to attain drivetrain cooling and superb high-speed handling and stability. Extensive wind tunnel testing helps a lot to produce a wind-cheating profile with a drag coefficient of 0.31, an outstanding achievement given the degree of downforce the car creates at high speed.

The Lexus LFA is set with Lexus’s Vehicle Dynamic Integrated Management (VDIM) system, which co-ordinates the smooth operation of the ABS, vehicle stability and traction control systems as the vehicle approaches its performance limits, based on critical data on brake operation, yaw and roll rates, individual wheel speed and longitudinal, lateral and vertical acceleration.

New Gullwing: Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Worlds Premiere

Performance detail of Mercedes SLS AMG

2010 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG triumphs the ‘Golden Steering Wheel 2009′ award

According to more than a quarter of one million readers, “Bild am Sonntag”, “Auto Bild” along with 25 associated European publications awarded the new 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Gullwing is the world’s best super sports and it has received the “Golden Steering Wheel” one of the most significant automotive awards in Europe.

11 sports cars competed for this award, but it appears that approximately one third of all votes were cast in favour of the new Mercedes SLS AMG. The new German sports car evokes memories of the legendary 300 SL “Gullwing” sports car of the 1950s but excels when it comes to lightweight construction, superior driving dynamics plus exemplary safety.

The Mercedes SLS AMG is powered by the AMG 6.3-litre V8 front-mid-engine with dry sump lubrication able to deliver 420 kW/571 hp and 650 newton metres of torque while it is connected to a seven-speed double-declutch transmission in a transaxle arrangement along with a sports suspension with aluminium double wishbones it can push the car from 0 - 100 km/h in just in 3.8 seconds, and has a top speed of 317 km/h.


The Mercedes SLS AMG can be already ordered and will hit the dealerships from 16 November 2009. The buying price is 177,310 EUR (incl. 19 % VAT); the market launch commences in spring 2010. The new Gullwing model is continuing a excellent tradition in winning the “Golden Steering Wheel” award: by a total of 18 victories to date, Mercedes-Benz is among the most successful car brands in the contest for the “Golden Steering Wheel”.