Lobini H1, 2007

Lobini H1, 2007

Lobini, which was recently bought by Brax Automobile, has presented the new 2007 Lobini H1 at the "Salão do Automóvel 2006". The car has a removable hard-top roof, redesigned front with new headlights and an aerodynamic kit which makes it a very appealing sports car. On the inside the Lobini H1 comes with leather seats available in light gray, dark gray or black.

History
In 1999 Lobini project was created. It aimed at developing the best Brazilian sports car with a technology to be compared with the international vehicles of the same category. Lobini H1 is now history. It was a success in "Salão do Automóvel 2002" and it can be seen on the streets of many cities in Brazil.

The company has recently shipped one of its cars to England, and it has been working with Lotus for the technical validation of Lobini in Europe.

Engine
* VW 1.8 I Turbo with inter cooler, 4 cylinder, 20 valves and 180 hp
* Transversal rear between axis
* Electronic injection Bosh
* Unique sport stainless steel exhaust pipe

Transmission
* Five gear - mechanical transmission

Suspension
* Independent suspension in the four wheels with carbon steel triangle arm
* Hydraulic shock absorbers JRZ for competition, with Eibach coils and adjustable
* Disc brakes in the four wheels with forced ventilation system

Chassis
* Carbon steel Tubular structure with anti - corrosive treatment

Bodywork
* Plastic reinforced with fiber glass

Specifications
* Dimensions: length = 3720mm, width=1800mm, height = 1180mm
* Height from the ground: 150mm
* Between axis: 2400mm
* Fuel tank: 58 liters
* Weight: 1030kg
* Weight distribution: 41/59
* Acceleration: 0 to 100km/h in less than 6 seconds
* Wheels and tires: 17" x 7", Front: 205 45 R17 Pzero asymmetric, Rear: 225 45 R17 Pzero asymmetric

Steering wheel
* Hydraulic steering wheel - height and depth adjustable, with integrated panel

Series items
* Air conditioning
* Electric windows
* Engine start button on the panel
* Luggage compartment behind the seats
* Sound system with CD player
* Adjustable competition seats

READ MORE - Lobini H1, 2007

Lobini H1, 2007

Lobini H1, 2007

Lobini, which was recently bought by Brax Automobile, has presented the new 2007 Lobini H1 at the "Salão do Automóvel 2006". The car has a removable hard-top roof, redesigned front with new headlights and an aerodynamic kit which makes it a very appealing sports car. On the inside the Lobini H1 comes with leather seats available in light gray, dark gray or black.

History
In 1999 Lobini project was created. It aimed at developing the best Brazilian sports car with a technology to be compared with the international vehicles of the same category. Lobini H1 is now history. It was a success in "Salão do Automóvel 2002" and it can be seen on the streets of many cities in Brazil.

The company has recently shipped one of its cars to England, and it has been working with Lotus for the technical validation of Lobini in Europe.

Engine
* VW 1.8 I Turbo with inter cooler, 4 cylinder, 20 valves and 180 hp
* Transversal rear between axis
* Electronic injection Bosh
* Unique sport stainless steel exhaust pipe

Transmission
* Five gear - mechanical transmission

Suspension
* Independent suspension in the four wheels with carbon steel triangle arm
* Hydraulic shock absorbers JRZ for competition, with Eibach coils and adjustable
* Disc brakes in the four wheels with forced ventilation system

Chassis
* Carbon steel Tubular structure with anti - corrosive treatment

Bodywork
* Plastic reinforced with fiber glass

Specifications
* Dimensions: length = 3720mm, width=1800mm, height = 1180mm
* Height from the ground: 150mm
* Between axis: 2400mm
* Fuel tank: 58 liters
* Weight: 1030kg
* Weight distribution: 41/59
* Acceleration: 0 to 100km/h in less than 6 seconds
* Wheels and tires: 17" x 7", Front: 205 45 R17 Pzero asymmetric, Rear: 225 45 R17 Pzero asymmetric

Steering wheel
* Hydraulic steering wheel - height and depth adjustable, with integrated panel

Series items
* Air conditioning
* Electric windows
* Engine start button on the panel
* Luggage compartment behind the seats
* Sound system with CD player
* Adjustable competition seats

READ MORE - Lobini H1, 2007

Honda Small Hybrid Sports Concept, 2007

Honda Small Hybrid Sports Concept, 2007

Honda Small Hybrid Sports Concept, a design study model, demonstrates a unique fusion of advanced environmental technology, exciting styling and fun-to-drive characteristics.
The Small Hybrid Sports Concept is conceived around a front-wheel drive, small car platform and is powered by a Honda IMA 4-cylinder petrol/electric hybrid system driving through a CVT transmission. It explores the idea that a car can have a low environmental impact yet still deliver all the driving enjoyment expected of a compact sports car.

The aerodynamic design is characterised by curvaceous and contoured surfaces contrasting with sharp "folded" edges. The short front and rear overhangs, together with wheelarches that wrap tightly around large wheels, further enhance the dramatic looks of this sports coupe. An accentuated, arrow-like nose features a full width air intake with Civic family overtones. This sweeps forward into a distinct protruding centre section complete with 'H' logo.

The Concept model's fluid lines are created by a steeply raked windscreen which extends back above the occupants' heads where it meets a one piece glass roof. This in turn flows rearwards to give the car its fastback styling, terminating in a distinctive and futuristic 3D floating glass design - a concave element which forms an additional vertical window. Further distinction is provided by a 'floating' LED tail light unit that stretches across the full width of the car. At its centre, the glass panel extends downwards and contains an illuminated 'Small Hybrid Sports' name plate.

The Hybrid Sports Concept is equipped with 165/60 section tyres mounted on 20-inch distinctive rims. Their dimension supports low rolling resistance without compromising sporty driving.
Compact external dimensions lend themselves to nimble, agile performance on the road and help to ensure a good power to weight ratio. 4000 mm in length, 1270 mm tall and 1760 mm wide, and the 2350 mm wheelbase, in conjunction with a sports suspension, delivers stable and predictable handling characteristics.
The body is particularly aerodynamically efficient and compact. Rear-facing digital cameras take the place of conventional door mirrors.

READ MORE - Honda Small Hybrid Sports Concept, 2007

Honda Small Hybrid Sports Concept, 2007

Honda Small Hybrid Sports Concept, 2007

Honda Small Hybrid Sports Concept, a design study model, demonstrates a unique fusion of advanced environmental technology, exciting styling and fun-to-drive characteristics.
The Small Hybrid Sports Concept is conceived around a front-wheel drive, small car platform and is powered by a Honda IMA 4-cylinder petrol/electric hybrid system driving through a CVT transmission. It explores the idea that a car can have a low environmental impact yet still deliver all the driving enjoyment expected of a compact sports car.

The aerodynamic design is characterised by curvaceous and contoured surfaces contrasting with sharp "folded" edges. The short front and rear overhangs, together with wheelarches that wrap tightly around large wheels, further enhance the dramatic looks of this sports coupe. An accentuated, arrow-like nose features a full width air intake with Civic family overtones. This sweeps forward into a distinct protruding centre section complete with 'H' logo.

The Concept model's fluid lines are created by a steeply raked windscreen which extends back above the occupants' heads where it meets a one piece glass roof. This in turn flows rearwards to give the car its fastback styling, terminating in a distinctive and futuristic 3D floating glass design - a concave element which forms an additional vertical window. Further distinction is provided by a 'floating' LED tail light unit that stretches across the full width of the car. At its centre, the glass panel extends downwards and contains an illuminated 'Small Hybrid Sports' name plate.

The Hybrid Sports Concept is equipped with 165/60 section tyres mounted on 20-inch distinctive rims. Their dimension supports low rolling resistance without compromising sporty driving.
Compact external dimensions lend themselves to nimble, agile performance on the road and help to ensure a good power to weight ratio. 4000 mm in length, 1270 mm tall and 1760 mm wide, and the 2350 mm wheelbase, in conjunction with a sports suspension, delivers stable and predictable handling characteristics.
The body is particularly aerodynamically efficient and compact. Rear-facing digital cameras take the place of conventional door mirrors.

READ MORE - Honda Small Hybrid Sports Concept, 2007

Honda S2000 CR Concept, 2007

Honda S2000 CR Concept, 2007

The lighter, stiffer and more aggressive overall design is engineered to maximize the S2000's potential on a racetrack with the goal of substantially-improving track times, chassis balance and feel. The factory-tuned roadster provides highly-aggressive suspension settings, increased body and chassis rigidity, overall weight reduction and an aerodynamic body kit dialed-in for reduced lift. An aluminum hardtop replaces the convertible soft top as standard equipment.

The full-body aerodynamic package reduces lift through large and highly-tuned front and rear spoilers.
Substantial structural bracing has been added to the storage area previously occupied by the soft top, resulting in additional rigidity. The aluminum hard top replaces the soft top of the conventional S2000, resulting in an overall weight savings of approximately 90 pounds when removed (relative to the current S2000).

The exclusive interior is highlighted by unique cloth seating surfaces with yellow stitching, a unique spherical aluminum shifter and carbon fiber-style trim panels. Air conditioning and an AM/FM Stereo with CD player are optional equipment. Standard features for the S2000 include 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels, ABS and Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA). While VSA serves to effectively enhance driver control during acceleration, braking, and cornering, the system can be disabled with the touch of a button when conditions warrant it.

Widely considered the quintessential roadster-style sports car, the S2000 is the performance icon for the Honda brand and combines uncompromising racetrack-ready performance with everyday usability. The S2000 rewards driving enthusiasts with a potent 2.2-liter, 16-valve DOHC VTEC 4-cylinder engine and a precise, short throw 6-speed manual transmission, along with tenacious handling and a perfect 50/50 weight balance.

The renowned high-revving engine delivers 237 horsepower at 7,800 rpm and 162 lb-ft. of torque at 6,800 rpm. Perfectly complimenting the engine's output characteristics is a compact, longitudinally-mounted, close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission that features a direct linkage for precise shifting and quick throws. Combined with a front and rear double wishbone suspension, precise electric power steering, and a torque-sensing limited slip differential, the end result is a complete, no compromise, performance package for the enthusiast driver.

READ MORE - Honda S2000 CR Concept, 2007

Honda S2000 CR Concept, 2007

Honda S2000 CR Concept, 2007

The lighter, stiffer and more aggressive overall design is engineered to maximize the S2000's potential on a racetrack with the goal of substantially-improving track times, chassis balance and feel. The factory-tuned roadster provides highly-aggressive suspension settings, increased body and chassis rigidity, overall weight reduction and an aerodynamic body kit dialed-in for reduced lift. An aluminum hardtop replaces the convertible soft top as standard equipment.

The full-body aerodynamic package reduces lift through large and highly-tuned front and rear spoilers.
Substantial structural bracing has been added to the storage area previously occupied by the soft top, resulting in additional rigidity. The aluminum hard top replaces the soft top of the conventional S2000, resulting in an overall weight savings of approximately 90 pounds when removed (relative to the current S2000).

The exclusive interior is highlighted by unique cloth seating surfaces with yellow stitching, a unique spherical aluminum shifter and carbon fiber-style trim panels. Air conditioning and an AM/FM Stereo with CD player are optional equipment. Standard features for the S2000 include 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels, ABS and Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA). While VSA serves to effectively enhance driver control during acceleration, braking, and cornering, the system can be disabled with the touch of a button when conditions warrant it.

Widely considered the quintessential roadster-style sports car, the S2000 is the performance icon for the Honda brand and combines uncompromising racetrack-ready performance with everyday usability. The S2000 rewards driving enthusiasts with a potent 2.2-liter, 16-valve DOHC VTEC 4-cylinder engine and a precise, short throw 6-speed manual transmission, along with tenacious handling and a perfect 50/50 weight balance.

The renowned high-revving engine delivers 237 horsepower at 7,800 rpm and 162 lb-ft. of torque at 6,800 rpm. Perfectly complimenting the engine's output characteristics is a compact, longitudinally-mounted, close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission that features a direct linkage for precise shifting and quick throws. Combined with a front and rear double wishbone suspension, precise electric power steering, and a torque-sensing limited slip differential, the end result is a complete, no compromise, performance package for the enthusiast driver.

READ MORE - Honda S2000 CR Concept, 2007

Acura Advanced Sports Car Concept, 2007

Acura Advanced Sports Car Concept, 2007

Created to take exotic sports car styling to a new level, the concept is designed to incorporate a powerful front-mounted, V-10 engine and a new high-performance, rear-wheel-drive based version of Acura's exclusive Super Handling All-Wheel Drive.

The concept's exterior demonstrates a dynamic fusion of advanced technology and emotion. The long, pronounced hood features deeply sculpted lines and embossed air vents, both of which hint at the powerful engine beneath. The exterior lines run the length of the body, creating a ribbon-like effect from the front headlights to the rear wheel arches, evoking a feeling of movement and power.

Though modern in its appearance, the Advanced Sports Car Concept retains the subtle cues associated with its predecessor, the NSX. The concept's slim, LED headlights are pushed wide and designed to mimic the pop-up headlights found on the first generation NSX. Other styling hints include a modern take on wraparound rear taillights and the all black cockpit.

Wide and low to the ground with a 108.8 inch wheelbase, the concept is anchored by grippy 19 inch front and 20 inch rear performance tires which are mounted to custom billet-machined, polished aluminum wheels. Powerful, ventilated carbon ceramic brake discs and eight-piston calipers accent the wheels. Bold wheel arches and flares add to the concept's aggressive appearance.

The low slung cabin is constructed entirely of tinted glass and sits flush against the body. Door handles are also flush mounted, allowing the sports car to retain a clean and aerodynamic appearance. The Advanced Sports Car Concept features a carbon fiber underbody and the rear is finished with aggressive quad exhaust pipes and integrated rear diffusers, further communicating its high performance potential.

READ MORE - Acura Advanced Sports Car Concept, 2007

Acura Advanced Sports Car Concept, 2007

Acura Advanced Sports Car Concept, 2007

Created to take exotic sports car styling to a new level, the concept is designed to incorporate a powerful front-mounted, V-10 engine and a new high-performance, rear-wheel-drive based version of Acura's exclusive Super Handling All-Wheel Drive.

The concept's exterior demonstrates a dynamic fusion of advanced technology and emotion. The long, pronounced hood features deeply sculpted lines and embossed air vents, both of which hint at the powerful engine beneath. The exterior lines run the length of the body, creating a ribbon-like effect from the front headlights to the rear wheel arches, evoking a feeling of movement and power.

Though modern in its appearance, the Advanced Sports Car Concept retains the subtle cues associated with its predecessor, the NSX. The concept's slim, LED headlights are pushed wide and designed to mimic the pop-up headlights found on the first generation NSX. Other styling hints include a modern take on wraparound rear taillights and the all black cockpit.

Wide and low to the ground with a 108.8 inch wheelbase, the concept is anchored by grippy 19 inch front and 20 inch rear performance tires which are mounted to custom billet-machined, polished aluminum wheels. Powerful, ventilated carbon ceramic brake discs and eight-piston calipers accent the wheels. Bold wheel arches and flares add to the concept's aggressive appearance.

The low slung cabin is constructed entirely of tinted glass and sits flush against the body. Door handles are also flush mounted, allowing the sports car to retain a clean and aerodynamic appearance. The Advanced Sports Car Concept features a carbon fiber underbody and the rear is finished with aggressive quad exhaust pipes and integrated rear diffusers, further communicating its high performance potential.

READ MORE - Acura Advanced Sports Car Concept, 2007

Citroen C4 Picasso, 2007

Citroen C4 Picasso, 2007

The 5 seat C4 Picasso slips naturally into Citroën's compact MPV range between the established, best-selling Xsara Picasso and the award-winning seven seat version, which will now be known as the Grand C4 Picasso. With three compact MPVs and the full-size C8 people carrier, Citroën now boasts the broadest MPV range in its history.

The new 5 seat C4 Picasso benefits from the same forward thinking that shaped the design of the recently launched Grand C4 Picasso, with outstanding all-round visibility, a light and airy interior, leading cabin and boot space, incorporating a new version of Citroën's Modubox folding trolley, and the use of high quality materials. The easy-to-use and flexible interior lay-out combines with the uncluttered interior space and the highest levels of comfort to ensure that travelling is a pleasurable experience.

The interior of Citroën's newcomer is refreshingly light, with outstanding visibility provided by the huge windscreen, slim pillars and optional panoramic sunroof. Artificial lighting also plays a major role with the availability of various useful features, such as automatic welcome lights under the door mirrors, a portable torch in the boot and reading lights on the back of the front seats, all designed to make journeys easier.

The exterior dimensions (4.47m long, 1.83m wide and 1.66m tall) give the C4 Picasso an extremely spacious interior. This feeling of space is enjoyed by all passengers, with those in the front benefiting from the simple, uncluttered design of the dash, and those in the back from three individual, full-size seats and a flat floor. The innovative seating design, first seen in the Grand C4 Picasso, allows the rear seats to be quickly and easily folded flat into the floor.

When all 5 seats are in use, the new model leads the class with 500 litres of boot space underneath the luggage cover, extending to a maximum 1,734 litres once the rear seats are folded down. Helping to keep the boot tidy, the five seat C4 Picasso can also be equipped with a new version of Citroën's renowned Modubox. This innovative, removable trolley makes it easy to divide boot space and to transport objects outside of the vehicle.

The new 5 seat C4 Picasso provides a relaxing journey for all occupants. Suspension comfort can be further enhanced by the optional pneumatic rear suspension, while laminated acoustic side windows can be specified to make it even quieter inside. An automatic electronic parking brake and Hill Start Assist are fitted as standard and make everyday driving easier.

Thoughtful extras such as individual air flow controls for back seat passengers, an air quality sensor and a scented air freshener can all add to the pleasant on board atmosphere. A high quality stereo system and folding video screens in the back of the front seats are also available to keep passengers entertained.

Which scored five stars in Euro NCAP tests, the new C4 Picasso meets the most stringent criteria for occupant protection, offering the likes of four Isofix seats, audible seat belt warnings for all seats and seven airbags as standard.

READ MORE - Citroen C4 Picasso, 2007

Citroen C4 Picasso, 2007

Citroen C4 Picasso, 2007

The 5 seat C4 Picasso slips naturally into Citroën's compact MPV range between the established, best-selling Xsara Picasso and the award-winning seven seat version, which will now be known as the Grand C4 Picasso. With three compact MPVs and the full-size C8 people carrier, Citroën now boasts the broadest MPV range in its history.

The new 5 seat C4 Picasso benefits from the same forward thinking that shaped the design of the recently launched Grand C4 Picasso, with outstanding all-round visibility, a light and airy interior, leading cabin and boot space, incorporating a new version of Citroën's Modubox folding trolley, and the use of high quality materials. The easy-to-use and flexible interior lay-out combines with the uncluttered interior space and the highest levels of comfort to ensure that travelling is a pleasurable experience.

The interior of Citroën's newcomer is refreshingly light, with outstanding visibility provided by the huge windscreen, slim pillars and optional panoramic sunroof. Artificial lighting also plays a major role with the availability of various useful features, such as automatic welcome lights under the door mirrors, a portable torch in the boot and reading lights on the back of the front seats, all designed to make journeys easier.

The exterior dimensions (4.47m long, 1.83m wide and 1.66m tall) give the C4 Picasso an extremely spacious interior. This feeling of space is enjoyed by all passengers, with those in the front benefiting from the simple, uncluttered design of the dash, and those in the back from three individual, full-size seats and a flat floor. The innovative seating design, first seen in the Grand C4 Picasso, allows the rear seats to be quickly and easily folded flat into the floor.

When all 5 seats are in use, the new model leads the class with 500 litres of boot space underneath the luggage cover, extending to a maximum 1,734 litres once the rear seats are folded down. Helping to keep the boot tidy, the five seat C4 Picasso can also be equipped with a new version of Citroën's renowned Modubox. This innovative, removable trolley makes it easy to divide boot space and to transport objects outside of the vehicle.

The new 5 seat C4 Picasso provides a relaxing journey for all occupants. Suspension comfort can be further enhanced by the optional pneumatic rear suspension, while laminated acoustic side windows can be specified to make it even quieter inside. An automatic electronic parking brake and Hill Start Assist are fitted as standard and make everyday driving easier.

Thoughtful extras such as individual air flow controls for back seat passengers, an air quality sensor and a scented air freshener can all add to the pleasant on board atmosphere. A high quality stereo system and folding video screens in the back of the front seats are also available to keep passengers entertained.

Which scored five stars in Euro NCAP tests, the new C4 Picasso meets the most stringent criteria for occupant protection, offering the likes of four Isofix seats, audible seat belt warnings for all seats and seven airbags as standard.

READ MORE - Citroen C4 Picasso, 2007

Vauxhall VXR8, 2007

Vauxhall VXR8, 2007

Motoring enthusiasts across Britain mourned the passing of the Monaro. The only Australian-built car to be sold in the UK offered raw and exciting performance thanks to its 6.0-litre V8 and rear-wheel drive set up.

But the thunder from down under hasn't stopped yet - in fact it's only going to get louder. Vauxhall has announced the arrival of a new Aussie musclecar - the VXR8 - and it's more powerful and exciting than even the legendary Monaro.

The dramatic-looking new saloon is powered by the same 6.0-litre V8 as the outgoing Monaro VXR, but revisions to the engine have made it even more efficient. It now develops a massive 420PS and 550Nm of torque, giving it enough grunt to sprint from 0-60mph in just 4.9 seconds. No other supercar offers this sort of power for anywhere near the VXR8's price.

Yet the VXR8, based on Australia's Holden HSV Clubsport R8, offers more in the way of practicality than the outgoing Monaro, with four doors and space for all the family.

Though practical, with a spacious boot, comfortable, long-legged cruising ability and luxuries such as climate control and leather trim, the VXR8 is certainly no softie. Driver aids such as the stability system and traction control can be turned off at the flick of a switch - perfect for drivers who want to hone their skills on a track day!

VXR8 goes as well as it stops, too, with powerful 365mm front disc brakes that slow the car down from 60mph to a standstill faster than a Lamborghini Murcielago or BMW M5.

In response to customer demand, the VXR8 will also be the first VXR model to be offered with an automatic gearbox. In order to maintain the control which VXR buyers require, the optional £1,400 self-shifter has a manual override and a sport setting which ensure the performance isn't blunted - in fact the auto is only half a second slower to 60mph than the manual!

Satellite navigation and 20-inch wheels will be offered as options for those who want to make their VXR8 look more distinctive and help find their way to the best driving roads. Even with all the option boxes ticked however, the VXR8 is still around half the price of other cars with comparable performance.

READ MORE - Vauxhall VXR8, 2007