Alfa Romeo Sells 500,000 Units

Alfa Romeo wants to sell, starting 2014, five times more cars then in 2009. TheItalians bet on six new models.

Boosted by the warm welcoming of the Giulietta model, but also by the relaunching plan proposed by Marchione, the Italians from Alfa Rome are setting ambitious objectives, they hope to fulfill in the next four years. Harald Wester, an official of the Fiat subsidiary, said that by 2014 Alfa Romeo will be able to sell a total of 500,000 units per year, this means about five times thenumber of cars sold in 2009.

The Italian official said that the statement is based on the automaker’s intention to launch six new models in the coming four years. We are talking about the five-door version of the MiTo, by the future mid-size Giulia, in the sedan and wagon version, by the future Spider and two SUVs, a compact and a full-size one. All these products will focus on safety and comfort.

Wester claimed that the positive evolution of the Alfa brand will be owed to the alliancebetween Fiat and Chrysler, as both automakers will use common parts. A good example would be the C-Evo platform, used by Giulietta, but also scheduled to be the base of other American and Italian models. Over a few years, a million units using C-Evo platform will be sold world wide annually, under the shape of Fiat and Chrysler cars.

Fiat Chrysler Sells 50,000 Fiat 500 units annually in US

Fiat Chrysler Merger CEO said they plan to sell around 50,000 Fiat 500 units annually in US. Marchionne also said that he hopes all customers topersonalize their units, in order to raise the price.

Sergio Marchione hopes to transform Fiat 500 in “the new Mini Cooper” of the United States market. More precisely, he wants the make the charismatic Italiancity model a sales champion in USA, with hopes to sell over 50,000 units annually. Fiat – Chrysler Merger have chosen 130 dealerships for Fiat 500 in US and 58 in Canada, and the low starting price of 500 will be used as a marketing tool. The Fiat officials wants to persuade their customers to customize their cars, this way the price which starts at $16,000 to reach this way $20,000, the extra $4,000 being payed for accessories, rims, body colors or trims.

Lately, the Americans have been attracted by smaller, eco models. In contrast with the traditional muscle cars, the USA market have consumed models like Volkswagen 1300 (Beetle), Renault Dauphine, Yugo (model copied after a Fiat) , Smart and Mini. These models were sold well when the petrol price was high, but Fiat – Chrysler Merger have not boasted about the Fiat 500′s efficiency.

Just like for Mini Cooper, the guys of Fiat has to promote 500 in an indite way in order to stand out on the North American market. While the Brits of Mini have worked with Cunning Stunts of Great Britain, the guys of Fiat have hired a less famous advertising company in Michigan. As a comparison, Mini have advertised Cooper in USA by putting it in a Ford Expedition and driving it around in the big cities.

The first Fiat 500 unit Image Gallery

The first Fiat 500 unit officially imported to Canada was sold in a found raise auction.

The first Fiat 500 Numero Uno brought in Canada was sold in an auction for not less than $85,000. The model has no extra features when compared to the units sold in Europe, but the money will go for charity purposes. We all expected the money to go to a foundation that takes care of children or young people, but no, the money were sent to Villa Charities foundation, which takes care of old Italian immigrants of Canada.

In Canada, the Fiat-Chrysler Alliance uses the Chrysler dealerships to sell the Fiat 500model. Cinquecento is the return of the Fiat brand on the US and Canada markets, and its public debut on the North American continent will tale place at Los Angeles Auto Show, in November. In the first phase, the Italians will only sell the 1.4 MultiAir version of Fiat 500on the North American market.

Although the options and equipment package is called Numero Uno, you will find no different features from what the European Fiat dealerships offer there. The name of the options package was changed in order to attract the interest of the potential customers, giving the car an Italian allure. 2011 will bring the debut of the convertible version of Fiat 500 on the North American continent.

FIAT PLAN THEIR OWN CHRYSLER IN EUROP

Fiat plans to introduce a European version of the Chrysler 200. But the model will be sold by Lancia, with the Fiat logo on the front grille.

It looks like Fiat is not sticking to their initial plans, saying they will sell theChrysler models under the name of Lancia. Unofficial sources say that the NewChrysler 200C will be sold on the Old Continent under the Fiat logo and not Lancia, as was anticipated. The reason is relatively simple, but a fair one: the American brand is not able to match the quality and luxury level of Lancia, a brand seen by many as a premium competitor.

Sebring’s successor in US would make its debut on the European market replacing Croma, from which will borrow some design elements. The Fiat sedan will be different from its North American brother because of the aesthetic changes of the front, which could include new headlights, and revised front grille and the Fiat logo.

But there are some major differences under the hood as well. The European public will receive diesel engines, unlike the American customers. The MultiJet units will be there too, with powers between 120 and 170 HP, designed to replace the American gasoline2.4-literengine of 173 HP and 3.6-liter of 283 HP engines.

Thew new sedan will be produced in the Chrysler plant in Michigan, and will be sold on the European market at a price around 20,000 euros (about $26,000).

The Italians might also bring to Europe a local version of Dodge Journey, easily revised last month on the US market. The model enjoyed good reviews in Europe, the pre-facelift version, but was withdrawn from the market after the Fiat-Chrysler alliance was reorganized.

FIAT WILL PRODUCE 350 UNITS IN NORTH AMERICA

Fiat will reorganize its production in the next four years, planning to eliminate about 5.000 jobs in Italy and move a production part in the U.S. market.

The Italians from Fiat could produce up to 350.000 units, Lancia (under theChrysler seal) and Alfa Romeo in North America, available exclusively for this market. Though the Italians are expanding in the North America market through the alliance that they made with Chrysler, they will discharge almost 5.000 peoples in Italy as part of their strategic plan for 2010-2014.

Three factories in Italy will suffer after this strike of personnel, which represents 15% of the amount of employees that Fiat has in its manufactories. The number of models will be reduced from 12 to 8, and the production in Italy will be increased by 50%, achieving an amount of 900.000 units. Therefore, the 25.000 employees still in production will make 50 percent more cars in the next 4 years.

The Fiat Group has 80.000 employees in Italy and 190.000 more at a global level. The Mirafiori factory in Torino will be the most affected by this comedown, to be lost among 2.000 and 2.500 jobs, while the Termini Imerese in Sicilia will loose about 1.500 jobs in 2011, when closing. The reason for reducing the employees number in Italy and moving out the production in the U.S.A., rests in the jetting up of the Fiat Group and the disposal of  the taxes applied on the imported products on the U.S. market.

MINI RELEASE ROAD VERSION REVEIWS

You’ve probably heard that Mini is preparing to get into the WRC ( World Rally Championship ). Along with this news, we have an even better rumor. The Mini WRC might also get into the production line, just like the Subaru Impreza WRXand Mitsubishi Evo X.

The Mini WRC is based on the Mini Countryman, which is a production crossover. Rumors also say that the Mini WRC is prepared to hit the showrooms, so we’ll probably take a look at it soon.

Hopefully the rumors are true and we’ll be able to get our hands on the nestMini WRC, which is a great car, I must say. Mini does have some models with more horse power and a bit sportive, but none of them can be compared with this one, so who’s both a Mini fan and loves power will definitely love this car.

Personally I’m really curious to see what they’re up to and would love to take a test drivewith it, because I’ve always had a passion for Minis. Rest assured that we’ll let you know once we find out more details about the new Mini WRC.

electric version of Toyota iQ will debut at Tokyo Auto Show 2011

The electric version of Toyota iQ will debut at Tokyo Auto Show 2011, two years after the FT-EV II concept was launched.

According to Nihon Cars, Toyota will launch a full-electric version of their iQ by the end of next year. The model will be equipped with an electric motor and a set of lithium-ion batteries. Tokyo Auto Show 2011 will be the place where the electric version of Toyota iQ will have its world premiere. The model might occur in the production version only two years after the FT-EV Concept II was presented, announcing the zero CO2 emissions of iQ.

The electric version of iQ will hit the European market after in the second half of 2012. The model will be tested alongside with the PHeV version of Toyota Prius, that can be recharged from a regular outlet. The debut will be made it Strasbourg, but every

FERRARI HYBRID CARS CONCEPTS

Next year at Geneva Auto Show we could see the first Ferrari hybrid. New generation of 612 Scaglietti is the main candidate for the environmentaltechnology exposure.

Luca di Montezemolo, the Ferrari president, said in an interview granted this year, that the hybrid technology developed in the Italian automaker laboratorieswill be ready for mass production in 2014.

The latest information contradict the official Ferrari declaration, the first public meeting with the hybrid propulsion train to be held next spring. Then, Ferrariwill present at the Geneva Motor Show, the new generation of Scaglietti and with this model and the alternative propulsion system.

The rumors, circulated by the German magazine Autobild, announces a Scaglietti as apioneer of hybrid technology series, certificate by Ferrari, being able to use the resources of a unit composed by a V12 engine and an electric one. According to self publication, on the previous axle will be a 12-cylinder engine and 550 HP, while the rear axle will host a power unit, designed to deliver 100 HP.

The resources baggage will help the Italian model to show off much better performance, while providing a fuel economy of about 35%, similar to that predicted by 599 Hy-Kers concept, at G

World Best 5 Hybrid and Electric Cars

The world famous automakers have used the Geneva Motor Show to show the latest electric and hybrid cars. We present the most interesting five appearances.

The new “green wave” has reached the automakers present at Geneva Auto Show. Normally, the latest technological solutions were presented both on the models that already exists, but also on the new concepts. I chose five of the most important electric and hybrid models from Geneva Motor Show 2011.

1. OPEL Ampera

New Opel Ampera came at Geneva Motor Show 2011, in world premiere in series version. Last year, the Opel engineers had come to Switzerland Auto Show with an Ampera from Rüsselsheim and were very satisfied with the results. New Ampera is a hybrid in series configuration (The guys from Opel it named electric model with an extend autonomy system) that receiving an electric motor and a gasoline engine which, when the battery is empty, acts as a generator. The Ampera battery is charged from a normal outlet in four hours and the 25-50 miles electric autonomy power is extended to over 250 miles after the gasoline engine enter in action.

Opel Ampera

2. VOLVO V60 PLUG-IN HYBRID

New series hybrid model launched by the guys from Volvo at Geneva Auto Show 2011 has a technology that can not be found in any other automaker in the world. We are talking about the diesel-electric hybrid system and the V60 Plug-in- Hybrid battery can be loaded, if necessary, from a normal outlet. The Swedish model can run exclusive in electric mode for 31 miles and the hybrid mode enabling the 2.4-liter diesel engine and 215 HP, which works in parallel with the electric motor, which have 70 HP. If is used in the most eco mode as possible, the V60 special version consumption falls below 78 mi/gal.

Volvo V60 Hybrid

3. PORSCHE Panamera S Hybrid

I could skip the second model from Porsche history with a hybrid powertrain. It is PorschePanamera S Hybrid, a version that receives the same drive train that I saw at Cayenne and also on Touareg Hybrid (380 HP and 428 lb-ft), this allowing to the German model to reach a good consumption for a model in this range. We’re talking about 34.5 mi/gal, a consumption that reaches half by the announced gasoline version of Porsche Panamera S version.

Porsche Panamera S Hybrid

4. BMW ActiveE

BMW shown at Geneva Motor Show 2011 the series prototype version of the compact 1 Series electric version. The first road models will be launched later this year. Based on the 1 Series Coupe version , the electric version can not be bought, but can be rented, BMW will produce a series of 1000 copies. The 170 HP and 184 lb-ft provide by the electric motor propels the new ActiveE from 0-60 mph in 9 seconds, guaranteeing a top speed of 90 mph, electronically limited to not discharge the battery resources. The announced autonomy by the guys from BMW is up to 100 miles.

BMW ActiveE

5. ROLLS ROYCE 102 EX Concept

What would you say if Rolls Royce would be released an electric Phantom? If ten years ago this idea would have aroused laughter, now the idea could be real. The reason: 102 EX Concept presented at Geneva Motor Show 2011, predict such a model that could be launched in future in the British brand range. It is not known if this concept will be produced in series, the only thing known is that after the Geneva Auto Show, Rolls Royce102 EX Concept will make the world tour. If they will show interest, the electric Phantom will be produced in limited series.

Rolls Royce

2011 HOT JEEP REVIEWS

Jeep is set to launch a B segment SUV in 2013. The model will borrow the design language of Wrangler and apply it on a Fiat B segment platform.

The Jeep line-up will extend in 2013, when it will also include a subcompact car. The model will be an SUV, which will be underpinned by a platform of the Fiat Group. Rumor has it that the platform will be the one of Fiat Grand Punto, but this information was not confirmed yet by the officials of the Fiat – Chrylseralliance. The model will feature Fiat JTD engines, the 1.3-liter and 1.6-liter units, next to 1.4-liter MultiAir engines. The entry-level version will only featurefront-wheel drive, with the flagship will have four wheel drive.

The new Jeep model will have a look reminiscent of Wrangler and wants to attack the segment opened by Nissan Juke. Regarding the optionals, the model will offer premiummaterials and equipment, for attracting young customers. Jeep officials are delighted by the first sketches of the next model and believe that the next B segment SUV will be a very special model.

Regarding the design of the new model, a Jeep official said that it will have a Wrangler-inspired front grille. Of course, the size will be adapted to the dimensions of the smallest model of Jeep line-up.

Artega Geneva Motors Show 2011

Artega presented at Geneva Motor Show 2011 the electric supercar, SE. The Model is powered by two electric motors together developing not less than 380 HP.

The German automaker, Artega, prepared for this year’s edition of Geneva Motor Show, an electric version of their Artega GT. Named Artega SE, acronym for Sport Electric, the new product is underpinned by the petrol engine version of the model.

The coupe is powered by two electric units, one for every traction wheel, capable of working independently, but together developing a power of 380 HP. The resources are enough to give the electric concept better performances than of the Artega GT.

So, Artega SE sprints from 0 to 100 kph in 4.3 seconds, 0.5 seconds faster than the petrol powered version. The top speed is pretty high for an electric powered vehicle, 250 kph. The performances are possible thanks to the low weight, of only 1,400 kg, with an 43:57 weight ratio.

A lithium-polymer batteries pack keep the electric motors alive, with a capacity of 37 kWh and nominal voltage of 350 V. The automaker announced that the new Artega SE will be capable of offering an official 300 km mileage. For a fast complete recharge of thebatteries, Artega SE needs 90 minutes.

The German automaker have not ruled out the production version of Artega SE, butrumor has it that only a small number will be built.

2011 Audi Sports Car R8 GT

INGOLSTADT, Germany, May 1, 2010 Audi presents a limited-production version of it R8 high-performance sports car, the R8 GT, even more powerful, lighter and faster. The output of its 5.2-liter V10 has been increased to 412 kW (560 hp); vehicle weight has been reduced by roughly 100 kilograms (220.46 lb). The R8 GT accelerates from zero to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 3.6 seconds and reaches a top speed of 320 km/h (198.84 mph).

The R8 high-performance sports car has been a winner from the very beginning. This applies to both the production models, winners of the “World Performance Car” Award in 2008 (R8) and in 2010 (R8 V10), and to the race car, the R8 LMS, which won 23 races in its first season and claimed three championships. The genes of the race version are now coming to the street – in the R8 GT. The exclusive series is limited to 333 units. Each R8 GT has a badge with its production number on the shift lever knob.

The extremely high strength of the body is the basis for the high-performance sports car’s precise handling, and it also offers good vibration comfort and first-rate crash safety.

The engineers also fought to shave every possible gram of weight from the technical components of R8. They shaved one kilogram (2.20 lb) from the power brake system, four kilograms (8.82 lb) from the aluminum caps of the brake discs and 9.4 kilograms (20.72 lb) from the battery. The engineers also found 2.3 kilograms (5.07 lb) in the air intake module and 2.8 kilograms (6.17 lb) in the insulation of the engine compartment.

The modified V10, whose cylinder head covers are painted red, gives the Audi R8 GT breathtaking performance. The R8 GT sprints from a standing start to highway speed in 3.6 seconds, and from zero to 200 km/h (124.27 mph) in 10.8 seconds. And the thrust does not let up until the top speed of 320 km/h (198.84 mph) is reached.

Changes to the engine electronics coaxed an additional 26 kW from the ten-cylinder, which now produces 412 kW (560 hp) from a displacement of 5,204 cc. The torque curve peaks at 540 Nm (398.28 lb-ft) at 6,500 rpm, 10 Nm (7.38 lb-ft) more than in the production version. The V10 has a specific power output of 79.2 kW (107.6 hp) per liter displacement. Its power-to-weight ratio is 3.70 kilograms (8.16 lb) per kW or 2.72 kilograms (6.00 lb) per hp. The engine redlines at 8,700 rpm.

The normally aspirated engine consumes an average of 13.7 liters of fuel per 100 km (17.17 US mpg) – very good fuel economy given the tremendous power. The FSI gasoline direct injection system injects the fuel into the combustion chambers at up to 120 bar of pressure. The turbulent mixture cools the cylinder walls, enabling a compression ratio of 12.5:1. A variable intake manifold and the continuous adjustment of the chain-driven camshafts ensure that the combustion chambers are fully filled. Flaps in the intake ports facilitate the formation of the mixture by inducing a tumbling motion in the inflowing air.

The 19-inch forged wheels are 8.5 J x 19 up front and 11 J x 19 at the rear, and are shod with size 235/35 and 295/30 tires, respectively. Audi will mount 305/30 tires together with optional wheels on the rear axle upon request. Cup tires, which offer the ultimate in performance on dry roads, are available for racing enthusiasts. At Audi, reducing weight means increasing performance and efficiency, but not sacrifice. The 2011 Audi R8 GT, which Audi sells in Germany for €193,000, comes with an automatic climate control system and power windows, a navigation system with MMI operating logic and a powerful sound system.