Watch the Scuderia #Ferrari Formula 1 car flown over the sea towards Barcelona symbolizing Formula 1′s arrival in Europe ahead of this weekend’s Grand Prix at the Circuit de Catalunya.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YCfk5fzi6Fs
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Jaguar has curated a unique team of drivers for its #Jaguar Heritage Racing entry into this year’s Mille Miglia classic car tour. Taking the seats of outstanding examples of Jaguar C-Type and XK120 heritage race cars will be six-time Olympic cycling Champion Sir Chris Hoy, global supermodel David Gandy, Le Mans 24 Hours race winner Andy Wallace, Chairman & CEO of 20th Century Fox Jim Gianopulos – who will drive with a film industry colleague, German actress Hannah Herzsprung, Italian Salvatore Ferragamo Jr., fashion icon Yasmin Le Bon and Michael Quinn, the grandson of Jaguar founder Sir William Lyons.
This exciting list of classic car enthusiasts will be led by Jaguar Heritage Racing’s own multiple race winner Alex Buncombe and motoring journalist Chris Harris, who will link up for the event in a Jaguar C-Type once owned by former Formula 1 Champion Juan Manue
The Mille Miglia is the pinnacle of classic motorsport, and the competitive event in 1952 saw Jaguar debut the disc brake on its C-type sports car, piloted then by Jaguar Chief Development Engineer Norman Dewis and Formula 1 legend Sir Stirling Moss. Norman Dewis was with some of the 2013 Jaguar Heritage Racing team at Goodwood Motor Circuit this week, in a driver training session.
The line-up of three C-Type race cars and three XK120s will be followed on the majority of the driving route by five new Jaguar F-TYPE sports cars.
Jaguar Regional Director for Europe Bernard Kuhnt – who will drive with Hannah Herzsprung in the event – told www.AutoVIP.co.uk : “Jaguar’s 1952 entry into the Mille Miglia was hugely significant in the evolution of Jaguar products. Seductive design, intelligent performance and technological innovation were features of all Jaguar sports cars in the 1950s and 60s and they are prevalent in the incredible new F-TYPE. I am delighted that the Jaguar sports car ‘bloodline’ will be together in this great race and that such an exciting list of individuals will come together to celebrate the occasion and drive our cars.”
In the forty years since the first prototype appeared, the place of the #Porsche911 Turbo at the technological summit and peak of dynamic performance has never been in doubt. Now, with the unveiling of the new ‘Type 991’ generation 911 Turbo and Turbo S, the car’s reputation as a technology showcase combining the virtues of a circuit race car with those of an everyday road car reaches new heights.
To view the Porsche 911 Turbo first look video click http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_5qgUO7Mq50
New all-wheel drive running gear with active rear axle steering, adaptive aerodynamics, full-LED headlights and up to 560 hp from the flat six-cylinder twin-turbocharged engine emphatically underline the character of the 911 Turbo and Turbo S models. Playing an equally crucial role is the entirely new, lightweight design chassis with a 100 mm longer wheelbase riding on larger diameter 20-inch wheels.
The Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC) active anti-roll system, which is offered for the first time on the 911 Turbo models, increases the dynamic performance potential even more. This system is standard equipment on the 911 Turbo S, together with the Sport Chrono Package Plus incorporating dynamic engine mounts, and Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes (PCCB). These are also each available on the 911 Turbo.
As a consequence, the 911 Turbo S shortens the benchmark lap time around the Nürburgring-Nordschleife to well under 7 min 30 sec – naturally on standard production tyres. The standard ‘sound symposer’ intensifies the driving experience further still; transmitting induction sounds of the turbo engine to the passenger compartment via a speaker diaphragm.
More power – and fuel economy improved by 16 per cent
The performance partners in the powertrain are the further advanced engines and the new Porsche Traction Management (PTM) all-wheel drive system. The turbocharged 3.8-litre flat-six engine with direct petrol injection produces 520 hp (383 kW) in the 911 Turbo, and 560 hp (412 kW) in the Turbo S.
Porsche continues to be the only car maker to offer twin turbochargers with variable turbine geometry on a petrol engine.
Power is transferred to the drivetrain via a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (PDK), which enables an auto start/stop function with engine shut-off that now activates earlier (when coasting to a halt) as well as the proven coasting function. Together with a new thermal management system for the turbo engine and the PDK transmission, fuel efficiency technologies have reduced NEDC fuel consumption by up to 16 per cent to 29.1 mpg; these figures apply to both models.
New all-wheel drive with electro-hydraulic control
For an even faster and more precise power distribution to the two axles, Porsche has developed a new all-wheel drive system (PTM) with an electronically controlled and activated multi-plate clutch. The system is equipped with a new water cooling function, so that it can direct even more drive torque to the front wheels if necessary. Simultaneously, the optimised interplay of the engine, transmission and all-wheel drive systems delivers even better sprint capabilities. The 911 Turbo — with the optional Sport Chrono Package Plus — accelerates from 0 to 62 mph in 3.2 seconds, which is one-tenth faster than the time of the prior model 911 Turbo S. Meanwhile, the new 911 Turbo S handles the standard sprint to 62 mph in just 3.1 seconds. The car’s top speed is 197 mph.
Rear axle steering sustainably improves handling
The introduction of rear axle steering to all 911 Turbo models improves both track driving and everyday performance of the two new sports cars immensely. Instead of conventional control arms, the system consists of two electro-mechanical actuators on the left and right of the rear axle. The steering angle of the rear wheels can be varied by up to 2.8 degrees, depending on vehicle speed. At speeds up to 31 mph (50 km/h), when the front wheels are turned the system steers the rear wheels in the opposite direction. This actually corresponds to a virtual shortening of the wheelbase by 250 mm, which gives the 911 Turbo unrivalled cornering agility. The system lets the car turn faster into the bend and offers more dynamic steering responses. Furthermore, this noticeably simplifies low speed manoeuvring and parking.
At speeds above 50 mph (80 km/h), the system steers the rear wheels parallel to the turned front wheels. This is equivalent to a virtual lengthening of the wheelbase by a significant 500 mm and gives the sports car tremendous stability, especially at high speeds. At the same time, the steering input by the driver leads to significantly faster build-up of lateral force at the rear axle, which initiates the change in direction more spontaneous and harmoniously.
Active aerodynamics improve efficiency and performance
Porsche has developed an active aerodynamic system on the new 911 Turbo models for the first time.
It consists of a sturdy, retractable three-stage front spoiler — whose segments can be pneumatically extended — and a deployable rear wing with three adjustable positions. This makes it possible to tune the aerodynamics of the 911 Turbo to fulfil driver wishes for either optimal efficiency (speed position) or ultimate dynamic performance.
In the performance position, all segments of the front spoiler are fully extended, and they generate considerable downforce on the front axle. Similarly, the rear wing is extended to its maximum height with the greatest angle of attack. This also generates more downforce on the rear axle. The extent to which this system improves dynamic performance is demonstrated by the fact that it can reduce lap times around the Nürburgring-Nordschleife by up to two seconds.
Widest body of all 911 models
As has become the tradition, the performance potential of the new 911 Turbo is plain to see but the new models express it more clearly than ever before. The characteristic, expansively wide rear body panels of the new generation 911 Turbo are 28 mm wider than those of the 911 Carrera 4 models – they feature a nearly level surface, about the width of a hand, between the base of the rear C-pillar and the outer edge of the car body.
Other differentiating characteristics include forged two-tone 20-inch diameter wheels – which on the 911 Turbo S have hub wheel locks. The Turbo S is also making its appearance with new full-LED headlights that feature four-point daytime running lights and dynamic, camera-based main beam control. This can be ordered as an option for the 911 Turbo.
New interior with high-end features
The interior was completely redesigned in both 911 Turbo models, building on the styling themes of the 911 Carrera family. The Turbo S offers an exclusive interior in a Black/Carrera Red colour combination and Sport Seats Plus with 18-way adjustment and position memory. In addition, the seat backrest shells are leather upholstered with double cap seams and various elements in Carbon Look. As with the prior model, a Bose Surround Sound audio system is standard; however, a higher output Burmester upgrade is also available as an option for the first time. A radar-controlled cruise control system, camera-based road sign recognition and speed limit recognition are other new options offered.
911 Turbo in the UK
The new 911 Turbo models are available to order now from Porsche Centres in the UK and Ireland. The Turbo is priced from £118,349 and the Turbo S from £140,852. First right-hand drive deliveries will arrive in September 2013.
The 911 Turbo offers a compelling mix of sporting and luxurious equipment levels. Standard equipment includes adaptive aerodynamics, Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM), Porsche Traction Management (PTM) four-wheel drive, 20-inch diameter forged alloy wheels, leather interior, automatic climate control, Bi-Xenon headlights, Porsche Communication Management (PCM) satellite navigation system, DAB digital radio with Bose Surround Sound, Bluetooth telephone module, a universal audio interface offering MP3 connectivity and a three year warranty.
The 911 Turbo S adds a unique interior trim/colour combination, Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC), Sport Chrono Package Plus incorporating dynamic engine mounts, Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes (PCCB) and LED headlights.
Fitted to every 911 is a Porsche Vehicle Tracking System (VTS), a sophisticated vehicle security package approved to Thatcham Category 5 standard, and customers are also able to explore the potential of their new car by participating in a complimentary course at the Porsche Experience Centre, Silverstone.
Thinking of selling your Porsche? Contact www.AutoVIP.co.uk on 08455 19 20 21 or apply online for a free valuation and no obligation cash offer.
On Sunday 23rd June, Beaulieu will be welcoming #Porsche vehicles of every shape and size into the grounds of the National Motor Museum for a brand new event, Simply Porsche. A must for any Porsche enthusiast, this fantastic rally is open to all Porsche owners.
Porsches of all ages and models are eligible to join the display of this iconic marque in the Beaulieu parkland.
This is a great opportunity to view hundreds of Porsches, meet up with other like-minded enthusiasts, and enjoy a great day out at the Beaulieu attraction. See over 250 vehicles on show in the National Motor Museum, from F1 racers to Land Speed Record Breakers and don’t miss BOND IN MOTION, the world’s largest ever exhibition of original James Bond film vehicles. The collection includes the Lotus Esprit S1 ‘submarine’ car from THE SPY WHO LOVED ME, a QUANTUM OF SOLACE Aston Martin DBS stunt car and two Honda CRF250R motorcycles and a Land Rover Defender 110 from the latest Bond film to be released, SKYFALL.
Enter World of Top Gear to see genuine vehicles created by presenters Jeremy, Richard and James in their challenges on the BBC television show, including Richard and Jeremy’s “Grannymobile” and the P45 micro car driven by Jeremy through a shopping centre and the British Library on the latest series.
You can also enjoy strolling through the beautifully-kept gardens to Palace House, home of the Montagu family since 1538 and the 13th Century Beaulieu Abbey, or you can explore the grounds by hopping onboard the high-level Monorail or open-topped veteran London bus.
As with all Simply Rallies, visitors to Beaulieu on the day of the event will be invited to vote for their favourite vehicle in the People’s Choice Awards. The owner of the winning car will receive a Beaulieu Trophy in an afternoon presentation ceremony and will be given the opportunity to lead a cavalcade of Porsches through the attraction.
For entrants arriving in a Porsche and joining the event on the Beaulieu parkland, entry prices are adult £10 and child £5. Please telephone 01590 612888 or visit www.beaulieushop.co.uk to book advance tickets. For all Porsche-related trade stand enquiries, telephone 01590 614614. All other visitors should enter Beaulieu via the main Reception at normal Beaulieu attraction admission prices.
Entry into the Beaulieu parkland with your Porsche is from 9.30am with catering available.
Admission to the event includes entry to the whole Beaulieu attraction; the National Motor Museum, BOND IN MOTION, World of Top Gear, Beaulieu Abbey, Palace House and the gardens.
Simply Porsche is one of the latest additions to Beaulieu’s rapidly growing calendar of Simply events, which has expanded to include a wide variety of themes covering a range of makes and models.
For more information please visit www.beaulieuevents.co.uk or join the conversation with @Beaulieu_Hants on Twitter using #simplyporsche
For the latest Sports, Prestige and Supercar news visit www.autovip.co.uk.
With only a few months remaining until the first deliveries will be made to just 375 customers, the development programme for the McLaren P1™ continues to accelerate as it nears its end. This extensive work is being carried out to ensure that the McLaren P1™ delivers on the target of being ‘the best driver’s car in the world on road and track’…or a frozen lake, for that matter.
high definition video showing the McLaren P1™ testing can be viewed at: http://youtu.be/Hb_6pNFqqNA
As part of durability testing, the development team recently travelled with the McLaren P1™ to the dramatic frozen landscapes of the Arctic Circle, in northern Sweden. Here, the car was put through its paces and tested to the extremes, in some of the most hostile and toughest conditions on the planet.
The testing schedule continues at pace, with XP prototypes running extensively across the globe, working to optimise the groundbreaking systems and technologies which have been borne of 50 years of race-winning knowledge and expertise.
The culmination of this testing and infamous McLaren attention to detail will be showcased over the summer, when the McLaren P1™ will publicly demonstrate the power available from the mid-mounted 3.8-litre twin-turbo V8 petrol engine and highly effective electric motor which generate 916PS, with a number of dynamic displays. As plans for the 50th anniversary celebrations for McLaren continue, it has also been confirmed that the latest model from McLaren Automotive will feature as part of the planned activities at this year’s Goodwood Festival of Speed. AutoVIP News will bring all the latest news on The Festival of Speed.
This latest stage in the rigorous testing process for the McLaren P1™ has been captured in the short film which can be viewed here – www.youtube.com/McLarenAutomotiveTV.
#AstonMartin has secured its place in the history books with a world first hydrogen-fuelled zero CO2 emission lap of the 24 km Nordschleife circuit in Germany.
The lap was completed on Saturday (27 April) with Aston Martin Chief Executive Officer Dr Ulrich Bez at the wheel of the prototype Aston Martin Hybrid Hydrogen Rapide S, and was a perfect test run ahead of a formal record-breaking attempt at the ADAC Zurich 24 Hours of Nürburgring (N24) next month.
Aston Martin engineers were using the four-hour ADAC ACAS H&R-Cup VLN series race as a shake-down and test session ahead of the gruelling 24 hour race next month in which the Hybrid Hydrogen Rapide S will line-up alongside a world-class field of some 200+ GT cars.
Development of the ground-breaking hybrid system – created by technical partners Alset Global and pioneered by Aston Martin in the race – has exceeded expectations, leading to the historic hydrogen-only lap of the infamous ‘green hell’ on Saturday afternoon.
Dr Bez told www.AutoVIP.co.uk : “I am incredibly proud of the Aston Martin team, and our partners Alset Global. We have written a little motorsport history with this qualifying lap as well as finishing the four-hour race on hydrogen and, of course, it bodes extremely well for our participation in the 24 Hours of Nürburgring in three weeks’ time.
“To have run full laps on hydrogen gas alone during the four-hour event is an exceptional ‘first’, and I now hope that we can stabilise the system and further improve the Rapide S so we can complete the 24-hour race on May 19 with many zero emission laps.”
David King, Director of Special Projects at Aston Martin and the man leading the Hybrid Hydrogen Rapide S project, said: “This achievement should leave no one in any doubt that the system we have developed with Alset Global is a viable and exciting option for the future.
“The creation of the Hybrid Hydrogen Rapide S was, for Aston Martin, another high profile way for us to mark our centenary in 2013, and to demonstrate our engineering capabilities in the most demanding environment of a major endurance race. This is the ultimate expression of our long term strategy of using the Nürburgring 24h race to publicly demonstrate the abilities of our cars and our people.”
When it competes at N24 the Hybrid Hydrogen Rapide S – based on Aston Martin’s new four-door, four-seat sports car – will become the first hydrogen-powered car to compete in an international event as well as the first zero CO2 emissions sports car to complete a race pace lap at the Nürburgring 24-hour race. The car will compete in an experimental class (E1-XP) having passed rigorous technical and safety assessments by the German motorsport authority the DMSB to be granted approval to race.
It will be able to complete full laps with zero CO2 emissions and will be refuelled after each stint with 3.5kg of hydrogen as well as gasoline.
Working in partnership with hydrogen experts Alset Global, Aston Martin’s engineers have developed a prototype twin turbocharged 6.0-litre V12 engine that powers the Nürburgring car.
Capable of running on pure gasoline, pure gaseous hydrogen, or a blend of both, the Hybrid Hydrogen race car showcases Aston Martin’s commitment to engineering innovation. In pure hydrogen mode the car emits virtually only water from the exhaust.
The Hybrid Hydrogen system comprises a hydrogen fuel rail, storage tanks and proprietary engine management system. Safety is paramount and the system includes four ultra-high strength carbon fibre tanks holding a total of 3.5kg of hydrogen stored at a pressure of 350bar.
The race car is based on the new Rapide S four-door sports car arriving in Aston Martin showrooms worldwide this month.
Aston Martin competes in the ADAC Zurich Nürburgring 24 Hours on May 19-20 for the eighth successive year
On the 18th May, the 57th running of the #Eurovision Song Contest will take place in Sweden. It has become a massive event which is watched by millions across the world. So surely it is now time for us to have a car based equivalent of the competition?
MoneySupermarket thinks so, and therefore asked AutoVIP to be a judge in their inaugural Euro Car Contest. The company has selected a car which they feel best represents 12 different Eurovision nations, and has then asked us to vote on what we feel the final order should be. It’s not an easy decision to make and whatever the outcome, it is sure to cause controversy.
Representing Great Britain is the iconic Jaguar E-Type which was a style icon of the 1960s. Production ended in 1974, but the E-Type has remained popular ever since thanks to its evergreen design which has helped it win countless car surveys over the years. The E-Type only ever increases in value, and it is now rare for find one for less than £50,000.
However, the E-Type is likely to face stiff competition from its more contemporary rivals such as the French Bugatti Veyron which official became the fastest road car ever produced when it was launched in 2005. Its sleek aerodynamic design and 1,000 bhp engine means that it is capable of a top speed of 253mph.
Another strong contender must be Italy’s Ferrari Enzo, which was launched in 2002 in honour of the company founder. It was heavily based on technology used on Michael Schumacher’s F1 championship winning Grand Prix car from 2001.
Representing Germany is the Porsche 911, which this year celebrates its 50th anniversary having originally been launched at the Frankfurt motor show in September 1963. What better way would there be to mark this occasion than for the 911 to win the inaugural Euro Car Contest?
A dark horse for victory must be the Rinspeed sQuba, which is the Swiss entry. It is based on a Lotus Elise, but modified so that it is usable both on land and in water.
So who do you think is most deserving of the full 12 points?
Take one already amazing sports car and put it in the hands of motorsport specialists Carrosserie Saurer in Switzerland and the end result is a truly exceptional example of automotive styling and engineering.
Indeed, while the word ‘unique’ is widely overused, it takes just one look at this stunning silver 1975 Maserati Merak by Saurer, which is being offered on 17th May at the Silverstone Auctions hosted International Trophy Sale, to know it is not a cliché.
Being incredibly rare also means it’s a well-known and well-documented motor car, ensuring that whoever has the pleasure of owning it next will know its complete history.
Life began for this 1975 model as any other Merak (if there is such a thing as ‘any other Merak’) but this particular example was earmarked for greatness.
In 1984 its painstaking transformation at Swiss-based Saurer, a land famed for precision engineering took shape.
The redesigned bodywork was formed to create what Paul Saurer considered to be his ideal ‘Hot Merak’ and the end result exceeded expectations and which will be available to view in the ultra-modern Wing building at Silverstone race track before the car auction commences at 2pm on Friday 17th May.
However, it’s not just the eye-pleasing redesign that catches the attention because all the original running gear has been retained – only increasing its collectability.
For more information about this very special 1975 Maserati, estimated at between £35,000 to £40,000, or for any of the other cars being offered at the International Trophy Sale, visit www.silverstoneauctions.com.
For the very latest Maserati news visit www.AutoVIP.co.uk
Research from the ABI published today highlights that the UK is the ‘Whiplash Capital of Europe’. Eight in ten personal injury claims following road traffic accidents are now for alleged whiplash, over twice the average of France, Spain and the Netherlands.
The full extent to which the UK’s compensation culture has led to an epidemic in whiplash claims set out in the ABI’s submission to the Transport Select Committee inquiry into whiplash. This highlights that:
James Dalton, the ABI’s Head of Motor and Liability, said:
“Insurers remain fully committed to ensuring access to justice for genuine claimants. But the harsh reality is that the UK remains the ‘whiplash capital of Europe’, with our ‘have a go’ compensation culture making whiplash the fraud of choice for many. With an annual whiplash bill of £2 billion adding an extra £90 a year to the average motor premium tough action is needed to tackle this problem.”
The ABI’s proposals for tackling the UK’s whiplash epidemic are:
James Dalton told AutoVIP News:
“Our proposals will ensure that genuine claimants receive access to justice at a proportionate cost, while driving out fraudulent and exaggerated whiplash claims that increase the cost of car insurance for honest motorists”.
#Mercedes-Benz will be showing a compact premium-class SUV at the “Auto Shanghai” motor show (21 to 29 April 2013) in the form of its Concept GLA. The Concept GLA combines dynamic styling with clear benefits for recreational use. Under the bonnet of this new concept vehicle (length/width/height: 4383/1978/1579 millimetres) sits a four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine rated at 211 hp with a displacement of 1991 cc.
Its power is transmitted to the road via the 7G-DCT dual clutch automatic transmission and 4MATIC all-wheel drive. A new approach is taken here in the form of headlamps featuring laser technology: these not only shine more light on the road, but also function as projectors.
“The Concept GLA marks a new approach for us in the compact SUV segment – this is a sporty and more coupé-like evolution of this category of vehicle,”commentedDr Joachim Schmidt, Executive Vice President Mercedes-Benz Cars, Sales and Marketing. “The Concept GLA is a compact SUV that combines its sporting spirit with the all-round qualities of a tough, leisure-time companion. ‘Escape the everyday’ is the message that this car conveys to its driver. It also makes clear the further potential of our compact vehicle architecture, which provides the basis for the A- and B-Class models that led the German market in their respective segments in the first quarter of 2013.”
Clever use of SUV design cues: the exterior design
Clear evidence of the innovative thinking on the part of the designers that has gone into this concept vehicle is provided by a number of distinctive features.
These include the powerful bonnet with its powerdomes and a sporty radiator grille with a centrally positioned star. The new-style surround to the star merges elegantly into two horizontal bars.
Also new are the so-called “softcubes”: these are soft, raised pads that help to give definition to the radiator grille and are also to be found on the side sill panels and alongside the exhaust tailpipes.
The distinctive door mirrors, with their twin supporting struts, are fitted with a protective grille. This, like the underride guard at the front, is very much a typical SUV feature. The striking appearance of the Concept GLA is also, not least, the result of its silver Alubeam paint finish.
Seen from the side, too, the Concept GLA conveys a sense of power and confidence. This reinforces the overall design philosophy behind the vehicle with a “dropping line” that extends from the headlamp to the rear wheel arch. The beltline trim rises slightly from the rear door towards the C-pillar. Together with the light-catching contour formed by the curvature of the vehicle flank and the line that rises from the level of the door sill towards the dropping line, this creates a unique interplay of lines that adds to the sense of elegant dynamism. The slim door handles of the five-door vehicle are fully recessed, emerging at the touch of a button. The frameless side windows also emphasise the coupé characteristics of this concept vehicle.
The 20-inch wheels, with their distinctive five-spoke turbine design, are shod in size 255/45 R 20 tyres. These have been specifically created for the Concept GLA: their tread pattern continues the lines of the spokes in an optical illusion that makes the latter appear longer.
The muscular haunches above the rear axle, accentuated by the way the C-pillar is pulled in slightly, extend to the rear over the light clusters, also emphasising the broad stance of the tail end. The outcome is a powerfully taut arc that nevertheless avoids aggression. This impression is reinforced by the curvature of the rear window and the elegant chrome strip between the rear light clusters. The large roof spoiler is a further eye-catching feature. This follows through very neatly on the structure of the rear roof panelling and provides the housing for the additional brake light.
Further SUV references, such as a load sill guard and a concealing underride fascia panel, are to be found in the area of the rear bumper covering. The twin-pipe exhaust system is evidence of the car’s sporty aspirations.
The tailgate features a power closing system that allows it to be opened or closed at the touch of a button. Opening the tailgate with its integrated rear light cluster reveals supplementary lights to warn approaching vehicles of the open tailgate. Further light clusters are housed in the rear cross member between the roof rails.
Perfect craftsmanship: the interior
In terms of its design, the interior reflects a clear alignment with the interiors of the other new compact Mercedes models, reinterpreted here for a sophisticated and exceptionally high-quality SUV. It is dominated by an exciting juxtaposition of leather and dark galvanised aluminium. The four individual seats and the door centre panels are upholstered in natural leather in a rich shade of brown. Both colour and workmanship bring the image of a saddle to mind: all in all, the Concept GLA incorporates more than 20 metres of hand-stitched seams to hold the raw edges of the leather together. The seat cushions, which feature central inlay panels in a high-quality canvas material, display an embossed pattern that continues the saddle theme. An illuminated insert is set into the integrated head restraint of each of the four sports seats.
Grey leather with a graphically applied grain is used on the backs of the front seats, amongst other places, and continues the idea of patterns being continued over from other surfaces. The armrests and centre panels of the door linings are designed as a very clear structural unit.
The instrument panel is constructed in several layers. On top of a leather-upholstered surface sits a framework in a combination of matt and polished aluminium, which provides the necessary support for all the instruments. This is held in place by clearly visible screws, featuring a specially devised design. This unit is protected from dust and dirt by a plexiglas covering that is illuminated from behind, so adding to the impression that the different levels are free-floating. The control buttons for COMAND Online have also been crafted with meticulous technical precision. They are made of plexiglas and painted from the back in black. Pictograms are then etched into the black, also from the back, before being filled in.
The air vents in the instrument panel as well as in the rear represent a further stylistic development of the vents used in the Concept A-CLASS and Concept Style Coupé, and are likewise illuminated from behind. They change colour according to the interior temperature set by the occupants. At a temperature of 22 degrees Celsius they light up in white. If a cooler temperature is selected for the interior, they turn blue, while opting for an influx of warm air switches the illumination to red.
Fibre-optic ambient lighting in the load compartment visually extends the line drawn by the centre console all the way from the instrument panel through to the rear seats. A rectangle of lighting strip inset into the load compartment floor serves to highlight its level surface. Luggage can be secured firmly with a spring-loaded four-point harness, as used in helicopters. A simple handle is used to fold the backrests of the rear sports seats forward to create a level load compartment floor.
Laser light: new-style headlamps project light and images
Film time! The front headlamps of the Concept GLA are each fitted with a laser-beam projector. These not only provide the light to drive by, but are also capable of projecting pictures or films onto a screen or other surface. Any format that can be operated through COMAND Online can serve as a source: pictures or films from a smartphone, the internet, or from a hard drive.
Alternatively, the action can be produced live. The Concept GLA is fitted with two cameras, housed in the front roof rail. These can be used for far more than just 3D images taken as the Concept GLA drives along: the HD cameras can be removed and, for example, fitted to a mountain bike helmet. An additional lamp unit in each camera ensures that the lighting is right, whatever the situation. As an alternative to the projection option, films may also be viewed inside the car on the COMAND Online screen.
The laser-beam projectors represent far more than simply an academic exercise on the part of the engineers and designers at Mercedes-Benz. As a further enhancement of the head-up display, they could also help to improve road safety: the technology could be used, for example, to project the directional instructions from the navigation system onto the road in the form of arrows – in this way other road users, too, would be able to see where a driver is heading.
Laser and LED technology: the headlamps
It is not only the laser-beam projectors and their visible cooling system provided by rotating vents that make the shimmering blue headlamps of the Concept GLA such an interesting feature. With the “Coming home” function, the blue light begins to pulsate to indicate that the vehicle is ready and waiting for its driver.
While the driving lights are produced here for the first time by a laser beam reflected off a mirror lens, the daytime running lamps, with their characteristic “torch” effect, as well as the indicator lights, consist of LEDs. The indicators take the form of digital chase lighting strips and, as such, represent a further development of the “Mexican wave” design used on the Concept Style Coupé.
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