Citroën C4 e-HDi 110

Citroen C4 1.6 HDi 110 and the first record


The micro-hybrid powertrain with an HDi clever start-stop

What is it?

It is cleaner, greener on the model of the new Citroen C4 range: E-HDi.

The micro-hybrid powertrain with an intelligent start / stop HDi, which is driven by the alternator. This reduces the need for increased engine start-up are launched as new smoother and faster.

In addition, all the usual eco-style add-ons, including regenerative braking and low rolling resistance, and you have combined in a C4 67.3mpg (rated 15 percent better than a standard 1.6 HDi) and 109 g / km CO2.

See first photo unit of the Citroen C4 HDi 110 E-
How do you feel?

In practice, the start-stop system is fast and fairly do in its activities to the point where, after some time, not even "notice it's there. Even with the box, dull usually manual six-speed automatic transmission is the progress the line smooth.

The gearbox is a difference when combined with THP engine 154bhp 1.6 petrol engine, but it is much better suited for the less urgent the 110bhp HDi stable 1.6. The rate of change of velocity is still frustrated, but they are smoother and faster and help you make eco-driving spirit.
Should I buy?

If you are sold on the search and proposal of new properties of C4, we can also consider this model as the retreat away from the beach. Citroën hopes Sun

It is expected that this version of the bestselling C4 in the UK, accounting for more than a third of sales.

The good and efficient transmission HDi is a game for the rest of the functions of the car is never satisfied, but he runs his business quietly. In the case of low fuel consumption and CO2 emissions are also factors in the decision, then he will respond.
Mark Tisshaw

E-Citroen C4 HDI 110

Price: € 19 700, maximum speed: 118 mph, 0-62 kmh: 11.2sec; economy: 67.3mpg, CO2: 109 g / km Kerb weight: 1290 kg Engine: 1560cc, 4cyl, Turbo Diesel, Power: 110 hp at 3600 rpm / min, torque: £ 199 m to 2000 rpm Transmission: 6-SPD automated manual transmission

Honda Insight EX

Conventional wisdom is that hybrid vehicles reduce our dependence on foreign oil and emit fewer environment hurting CO2 emissions. When comparing a hybrid to a conventional gasoline-powered model on a mile-by-mile basis, there's some logic to this argument provided the pricing disparity between the two models isn't too broad. However, a new study by Quality Planning shows that hybrid owners drive much more than non-hybrid owners, potentially negating the benefits of the added battery pack and electric motor.

Quality Planning studied nearly 360,000 vehicles throughout 2007 and 2008 to analyze driving habits, and some of the study's findings are pretty surprising. According to the survey, hybrid and non-hybrid drivers have statistically similar commutes, but hybrid owners drive their vehicles 25% more (2,000 miles) in non-commuting scenarios.

Dr. Raj Bhat, president of Quality Planning, thinks part of the reason for these findings has something to do with the fact that high mileage drivers are typically more interested in hybrids than infrequent drivers.

"What we don't know is whether owning a hybrid vehicle encourages people to drive more miles each day or take more pleasure trips. High-mileage drivers appear to be attracted to these vehicles, so insurers should take steps to verify the intended use of hybrids and validate actual miles driven wherever possible."

The study also shows that hybrid owners are significantly more likely to receive traffic tickets. According to the survey, Toyota Prius owners received .38 tickets per 100,000 miles driven, versus a non-hybrid average of .23 tickets per 100,000 miles. That's a 65% differential. One possible explanation for the ticket disparity has to do with where hybrid owners live. Quality Planning found that hybrid owners are more likely to live in an urban setting, where tickets are more frequently issued.

If you really want a hybrid and you don't want to hear any more bad news, you should stop reading. QP also found that repair costs are significantly higher for hybrid owners. The Ford Escape Hybrid, for example, costs 31% more to repair than the gasoline-only model, while repairing the Toyota Highlander Hybrid will reportedly add 45% more cost. A recent report by IntelliChoice that found that, in the long-term, hybrids and diesels are actually cheaper than gasoline-only vehicles.

The text below illustrates how much on a per dollar basis hybrid repair costs for collision and comprehensive coverage versus one dollar for a non-hybrid. The disparity is shrinking every year, but according to QP, hybrids still cost more to fix. Hit the jump to view the Quality Planning press release.

Collision Comprehensive
Coverage Coverage
2006 Hybrid Models $1.16 $1.75
2007 Hybrid Models $1.09 $1.35
2008 Hybrid Models $1.13 $1.17



PRESS RELEASE:

SAN FRANCISCO, CA--(Marketwire - July 15, 2009) - With gas prices on the rise again, energy-conscious consumers are looking to save on fuel costs, and hybrid vehicles are a popular choice when gas mileage is a primary concern. However, an analysis of the driving habits of about 360,000 vehicle owners by insurance services company Quality Planning has concluded that many owners of hybrid vehicles drive as much as 25 percent more miles than owners of non-hybrids, and that hybrid vehicles are often more expensive to repair.

Numerous studies have compared the cost of ownership of hybrid vehicles versus conventionally powered vehicles, but driving behaviors of the owners of hybrids and vehicle repair costs are generally not part of the analyses. To understand driving behaviors of hybrid vehicle owners, Quality Planning looked at classes of vehicles for which both hybrid and conventional engines are available and examined annual mileage for both vehicle types. Also considered were two common auto insurance rating variables: everyday driving (normally termed "pleasure use" by auto insurers) and "high-commute" driving (defined as commuting more than 15 miles per day).

Do hybrid vehicles encourage owners to drive more?

Quality Planning found that while the mileage for high-commute drivers was roughly the same for both types of vehicles, those drivers who use their hybrid vehicles for non-commuting purposes drove an average of 10,500 miles per year -- 2,000 miles (or roughly 25 percent) more than non-commuting drivers of non-hybrid vehicles.

"The additional miles driven by hybrid vehicle owners would seem to offset the net ecological benefit of owning a fuel-efficient vehicle. After all, a gallon of gas is a gallon of gas, no matter which type of engine is burning it," said Dr. Raj Bhat, president of Quality Planning. "What we don't know is whether owning a hybrid vehicle encourages people to drive more miles each day or take more pleasure trips. High-mileage drivers appear to be attracted to these vehicles, so insurers should take steps to verify the intended use of hybrids and validate actual miles driven wherever possible."

To further assess the risk represented by hybrid vehicles, Quality Planning looked at the demographic profile of their owners and found that they are frequently women, typically older, more affluent, and often live in cities. Quality Planning also looked at the number of moving violations issued to Toyota Prius drivers and found that those drivers tend to get more than their fair share of traffic tickets (0.38 violations per 100,000 miles driven, compared with an overall average of 0.23). However, this 65 percent difference may be because urban drivers generally receive more traffic citations.

Will a damaged hybrid cost more to repair?

Quality Planning also looked at the loss experience of conventional vehicles versus hybrids by comparing the collision and comprehensive loss costs of both kinds of vehicles. Loss costs include impact of both frequency (the number of claims per 100 insured vehicle years) and severity (the dollar impact of a claim). For all 2008 model-year hybrids, collision coverage loss dollars were 13 percent higher, and comprehensive coverage loss dollars were almost 17 percent higher. The 2006 and 2007 models had substantially higher comprehensive losses.

When comparing specific 2006-2008 models, the highest collision loss costs were associated with the Toyota Highlander hybrid (45 percent higher) and the Ford Escape hybrid (31 percent higher). In general, there were increases in both frequency of claims and severity of claims for hybrid vehicles. When compared with a baseline loss cost of $1 for the equivalent non-hybrid model, the hybrid models had the following loss costs:

Collision Comprehensive
Coverage Coverage
2006 Hybrid Models $1.16 $1.75
2007 Hybrid Models $1.09 $1.35
2008 Hybrid Models $1.13 $1.17

"These findings should be of particular interest to auto insurers. Some currently offer policy discounts on hybrid vehicles. A 25 percent increase in miles driven or a 30 percent differential in loss costs is very significant," added Dr. Bhat.

Study methodology

Quality Planning sampled 359,309 vehicles from multiple carriers across the country over a two-year period from January 2007 to December 2008. The vehicles were re-underwritten using Quality Planning's proprietary program for correcting rating errors, Precision Re-Underwriting™. The vehicles analyzed were hybrid vehicles that had equivalent non-hybrid counterparts. The annual mileage estimates were obtained from Quality Planning's proprietary RISK:check® process, which uses statistical estimates and odometer readings when available; the estimates were confirmed by policyholders through mail and phone contact.

About ISO

A leading source of information about risk, ISO provides data, analytics, and decision-support services to professionals in many fields, including insurance, finance, real estate, health services, government, human resources, and risk management. Using advanced technologies to collect, analyze, develop, and deliver information, ISO helps customers evaluate and manage risk. The company draws on vast expertise in actuarial science, insurance coverages, fire protection, fraud prevention, catastrophe and weather risk, predictive modeling, data management, economic forecasting, social and technological trends, and many other fields. To meet the needs of diverse clients, ISO employs an experienced staff of business and technical specialists, analysts, and certified professionals. In the United States and around the world, ISO helps customers protect people, property, and financial assets. For more information, visit www.iso.com.

About Quality Planning

An ISO business, Quality Planning is focused exclusively on providing rating integrity solutions to auto insurers. Quality Planning works with insurance companies to identify areas of significant rating errors using sophisticated database management, statistical analysis and modeling, customized survey design, and highly targeted customer interaction. Quality Planning helps clients work within their existing rating plans and charge fair prices to policyholders based on a true representation of risk. The company was founded in 1985 and is headquartered in San Francisco. For more information,

Replacement Front Pipe NATURAL FINISH -- 31 in. L x 6 in. W x 6 in. H; Header pipe from exhaust manifold

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Cadillac to get seven-seat Lambda variant

Brace yourself, Cadillac fans. Word has just come down the pike that The Crest will "absolutely" be getting a new model based on none other than the Lambda architecture. That means that a variant of the Chevrolet Traverse will be sold under all four of The General's brands. So far, drivetrain options are still up in the air and vague at best, but we'd be willing to bet our lucky penny that both front- and all-wheel drive models will be available. Chances are that power will come from the same 3.6-liter V6 found under the hood of every other Lambda out there, too.

It's hard not to approach this with a cynical eye. Right after the company's 2009 bankruptcy blitzkrieg, GM promised the world that it was through with badge engineering for good. Swapping nameplates and fenders had done much to lead the company to the brink of collapse, and the waves of fresh new models hitting our shores had us thinking that maybe the company had turned over a new leaf.

By all accounts, the Chevrolet Traverse and Buick Enclave are selling well, so is this a case of Detroit getting greedy or is the company simply trying to spread development costs as thin as possible? Either way, it will take something really special to convince us that this is a smart move.

Ferrari CEO

What goes around comes around. Ferrari broke ground in the supercar sphere with the 288 GTO and F40, which both used twin-turbo V8 powertrains. The subsequent F50 and Enzo went with V12s, and the 599's mill was based off the Enzo's. But the next model in Ferrari's range-topping mid-engine exotic line will go back to the twin-spool eight-pot.

This directly from the company's chief executive Amedeo Felisa (pictured above with the new 458 Italia), speaking with Autocar magazine. Although a high-output, direct-injection, twin-turbo V6 bounced around the rumor mill, Felisa says no such plans are in place, as customers still look to cylinder count as an indicator of a car's capabilities. The CEO added that the implementation of hybrid technologies – as previewed in the 599 HY-KERS concept – will allow Maranello to continue offering high cylinder counts, including V8, V10 and V12 engines. This is especially interesting because, F1 cars aside, Ferrari has never made a road-going V10. Could be an indicator of things to come, or perhaps just a typo.

Felisa also spoke on the use of carbon fiber, saying that its implementation will, for the time being at least, remain limited to the Enzo stratosphere and not used in its production models. According to Felisa, "nobody today has a real understanding of what happens if you damage a carbonfibre structure." Given its decades of experience with the material in F1 and the hundreds of on-track crashes that it surely accumulated over the years, if Ferrari doesn't understand it, we struggle to imagine who does.

Saab Restarts Production at Trollhättan, First Cars Under Spyker Ownership Roll Off the Line

Production begins in Trollhättan Saab, Spyker Cars first comes from the production line Line Between Owner


Announced a new era for Saab as an independent company from the bonds of General Motors, the first car of the Swedish company in the arms of loving Spyker Cars CEO Victor Muller, free, and rolled the production line today in the company's factory in Trollhättan. During the talks between General Motors and the Dutch supercar manufacturer, the system is idle for a period of two months.

The first Saab to build the production line today was a new 9-5 Sedan, a test fleet before the official opening of the power of premium sedan is determined by the end of the year. Connected shortly after the 9-5 with a Saab 9-3 Convertible.

Jan Åke Jonsson, Saab Automobile's CEO, CEO Victor Muller Spyker Cars and Trollhättan Plant Director Gunnar Brunius this occasion, was built from a position of prominence in the next production line assemblers and the first batch of cars.

"Today is the resumption of production is a milestone in the history of our company," said Jan Åke Jonsson. "We are up and running as an independent producer and I look forward to the next line of our employees to share their experiences. They have a great commitment to the company and we are now ramp production to meet all the needs of targeted customers.

Victor Muller, CEO Spyker Cars, added: "Every Saab has worked hard to achieve this important point. Today, the production has a new 9.5 first across the line - a perfect symbol for a new era has begun.

Nummi and UAW seeking closure through cash

Thanks to the hard work and solidarity of the United Auto Workers union, Detroit automakers have known for years that it is extremely expensive to offer early retirements, entice workers to walk away from their jobs or permanently close the doors at a plant. And even though Nummi is an independent company, Toyota, too, is now fully aware of the financial pain involved in mothballing a factory for good. The Freemont, California Nummi plant became expendable after General Motors cut ties with the company during its bankruptcy proceedings, leaving Toyota with more capacity than it needed.

A report from the Silicon Valley Mercury News indicates that the UAW and Nummi have reached a tentative agreement on a separation package valued at $ 281 million, or about $ 60,000 for each and every member of the 4.700 worker plant. The original proposal was valued at $ 253 million, with $ 168 million for hourly workers and $ 85 million for salaried employees.

While $ 60,000 sounds like a king's ransom to simply walk away from a job, the number is not as impressive when considering national unemployment at close to 10 percent. After all, it's not exactly as though there are plenty of quality manufacturing jobs out there - even when times are good.

With Nummi scheduled to shutter on April 1, we can see why some workers are anxious to close the deal. Nummi employee Scott MacMillan reportedly told the SVMN that workers are dissatisfied with the amount of information the UAW is giving workers, adding "that has caused a lot of frustration for the employees." Nummi UAW workers are scheduled to vote later today on the separation package.

Lexus Announces IS 350C F-Sport Special Edition, Priced from $58,375

First of all, before you run down to the comments section to... run us down, what you see pictured above is NOT the special edition F-Sport model but an F-Sport equipped IS350C as Lexus did not accompany the announcement on its new model with pictures.

Not that we've cleared that up, let's see what the IS 350C F-Sport special is all about. To put it briefly, it's a limited run version of the coupe-convertible IS packed with performance and styling accessories from Lexus' F-Sport accessories line as well as additional equipment that will be available only in two colors, Tungsten Pearl or Obsidian.

On the outside, the special edition IS 350C will be distinguished by a set of newly designed 19-inch forged alloy wheels, exterior badging and a unique F-Sport grille not previously available.

To improve handling, Lexus upgraded the suspension with a sway bar, a new set of shocks from Bilstein and new springs that reduce the ride height by approximately one-inch while it also wrapped the new rims in Michelin Pilot Sport rubber size 225/35ZR19 in the front and 255/35ZR19 in the rear.

An upgraded brake kit that is said to offer a firmer pedal feel and enhanced fade resistance is also part of the package.

There are no changes under the hood with the F-Sport model featuring the same 306HP 3.5-liter V6 as the standard IS 350C.

Inside, the IS 350C F-Sport comes with black leather-trimmed seats with contrasting blue stitching and leather-wrapped shift knob and embroidered floor mats with the F-Sport logo.

Other 'Special Edition' standard features include heated and ventilated front seats with wood trim; Bi-Xenon HID headlamps with Adaptive Front lighting System (AFS); headlamp washers; and Lexus Navigation.

Lexus plans to keep production limited to 100 units with the first examples of the F-Sport model scheduled to arrive at dealerships later this month with an MSRP of $57,500 (not including a delivery, processing and handling fee of $875), or roughly the same price as an Audi S5 soft-top convertible that gets a 333HP 3.0-liter V6 TSI.

GM of India's press release on the introduction of the Beat

2010 Chevrolet Beat for India - Click above to enlarge

The question of whether or not General Motors will bring its diminutive Chevrolet Spark to the United States still doesn't have a definitive answer. Thanks to a GM of India press release, however, we now know that the little urban runabout will be coming to North America, although that geography obviously also includes Mexico and Canada.

In the past, GM spokespeople have suggested that it might be possible for the Spark (A.K.A. "Beat," or that unbearably irritating robot from Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen) to be imported Stateside and that the automaker had kept U.S. regulations in mind when designing the car. Regardless, with gas as cheap as it currently is and a new Aveo just around the corner, we're certainly not holding our breath for a U.S. launch any time soon, and we feel that seeing the Beat in Mexican and/or Canadian showrooms is more likely.

That said, feel free to hit the jump to read GM of India's press release on the introduction of the Beat, which made its production-ready debut earlier in the week in New Delhi.

[Source: General Motors]

Show full PR text

GM India Launches much awaited Chevrolet Beat

Sexy, Smart & Tough - New Global mini car to be key pillar of Chevrolet's growth strategy in India

New Delhi: GM India today launched the much awaited Chevrolet Beat, the next offering from the 300 series after the Cruze, at a ceremony presided over by its President & Managing Director, Mr. Karl Slym. Based on GM's global mini-vehicle architecture, the experts took 27 months to develop the Beat. Chevrolet Beat will be launched in over 150 markets around the world including those in Europe, other parts of Asia and North America in the coming days.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Slym said "with its best-in-segment design, performance and safety, the Beat is destined to become an industry benchmark and a winner among consumers in India. Aimed at meeting the highest quality and performance standards in the most sophisticated markets in a competitive environment, the global vehicle was put through over 1 million kilometers of intensive durability tests in extreme weather conditions and crash tests both in India and abroad. It has high-strength and ultra-high-strength steel over key areas of the body to ensure segment-leading occupant protection. And with a revolutionary design, advanced technology, unique features and benchmark safety, the Beat offers much more than an ordinary mini, Mr. Slym added.

The Beat comes in three trim levels of 1.2, 1.2LS and 1.2LT. In addition, an Option pack is available on the LT variant which consists of ABS, Alloy wheels, Dual Airbags and Seatbelts with Load limiters.

Sexy Beat:

Segment-Leading Size and a Dynamic Exterior

The Beat is a car that is ideal for those with a modern lifestyle. With the styling of a sporty hatchback, it showcases the new direction of Chevrolet design and a new trend in the design of mini-cars. The clear goal from the very beginning was to create a revolution in size and design despite the restrictions of the mini segment. The vehicle is destined to make a statement with an innovative design that would go far beyond a typical mini-vehicle and set new standards for the segment.

The Beat's roomy proportions and dynamic styling are courtesy of its segment-leading length of 3,595 mm, height of 1,520 mm, wheelbase of 2,375 mm, and width of 1,595 mm combined with its "body-in/wheels-out" stance. Dramatically sized headlamps that literally stretch from the front fascia to the back of the hood, with clear polycarbonate lenses and chrome-coated bezels, resemble diamonds, adding an upscale appearance and glamour.

A window line that is slanted dynamically upward, an arching roofline and sharp sidelines bring a sporty yet edgy look, a rarity in the segment. Secret vertical rear door handles located in the C-pillar are another unusual feature in this car. They give the Beat a unique, sporty three-door coupe appearance without sacrificing five-door utility.

A first-in-segment offering of an integrated rear spoiler as standard equipment essentially extends the rear roofline, for enhanced aerodynamic performance and provides a stable stance in high-speed driving as well as increased fuel efficiency. Round tail-lamps with clear polycarbonate lenses add to the Beat's strong rear impression.

A chrome-coated radiator grille and fog lamps, outside mirrors with two-tone color, and a refined-looking roof rail are other design cues that transport the Beat's styling beyond that of a conventional mini.

Beat buyers have a larger palette of exterior colours to choose from. They may select one of the seven colours - Olympic White, Linen Beige, Caviar Black, Misty Lake, Moroccan Blue, Green Cocktail and Super Red.

Unique Interior Defined By Fun, Fashion and Functionality

The design revolution continues inside the Beat. While pursuing a harmonious theme with the dynamic exterior, the interior is more about functionality. With its wider track and longer wheelbase, the Beat provides best-in-segment front legroom, rear legroom, front headroom and rear hip-room, resulting in generous space and comfortable accommodation for five adults.

The flowing interior weaves together the instrument panel, front seats and door trims, creating an environment that is harmonious, uninterrupted and inviting to the senses.

The most striking design element in the interior is a Steering Column mounted motorcycle-inspired dynamic meter cluster which is also a first-in-segment and combines analog and digital systems, contributing fun and unique styling as well as enhanced visibility and convenience. Adding to the refined look is an integrated center stack design that eliminates the traditional "picture framing" layout and results in a contemporary stylish relationship. LED-lit ice blue illumination which is a signature Chevrolet adds to the urban, edgy styling.

Pattern-printed semi-bucket seats provide a stable feeling when cornering. With high-quality materials and exceptional craftsmanship, they also enhance the luxurious interior atmosphere.

SMART Beat

Segment leading fuel efficiency with high power output engine

Newly developed for the next-generation global mini, the S-TEC II engine – a 4-cylinder, 16-valve 1199cc DOHC engine delivers a best in class mileage of 18.6 kmpl. The Beat is Smart because it does no compromise on performance as it delivers an excellent peak power of 80.5ps. The S-TEC II engine includes a series of advanced features that enhance performance. The first-in-segment application of the PDA (Port De-Activation) system ensures high exhaust gas recirculation, resulting in combustion stability at low speeds and optimal performance at high speeds together with improved fuel efficiency. In addition, the PDA system contributes to a reduction in emissions, making the Beat a truly eco-friendly vehicle.

Another first-in-segment application is an automatic temperature controller inside the engine, which helps improve fuel efficiency by reducing unnecessary heat loss. A dome-type long-skirt cylinder block narrows the space between intake valves while the application of four resonators reduces engine noise. Mated with the efficient S-TEC-II engine is a 5-speed manual transmission tuned to GM's global standards that provides enhanced shifts for an outstanding ride.

Segment first & Premium Features Go "Beyond Mini"

The Beat features an array of premium comfort and convenience amenities that one would expect in more expensive vehicles, including:

* l Automatic Climate Control
*
* Integrated Center Stack Audio with USB and Aux-in Port
* Tilt steering
* Steering Column mounted LED back-lit speedometer & LCD digital tachometer
* 60:40 Split folding seats
* Tubeless Tyres
* Satin Silver Roof rails

TOUGH Beat

Solid Structure and Advanced Chassis Ensure Pleasurable Ride and Handling

The ride and handling of the Beat also set it apart from any other vehicle in its segment. Adopting the body-frame integral (BFI) system, the upper body structure and frame are engineered as a single unit, resulting in better feel of the road along with a heightened sense of firmness and stability, and enhanced connectivity between the driver and vehicle. A McPherson strut front suspension combined with a four-point mounted long engine cradle and a width power reduction spring enhances the solidity of the entire chassis, for improved crash safety and driving performance. A rear compound crank torsion beam incorporates a tubular V-beam for more effective tuning and dynamic performance.

A first-in-segment triple acoustic absorbent structure and special underbody structure prevent noise inflow from outside for optimal quietness. Wind noise is minimized through the Beat's aerodynamic body line and detailed door sealing structure.

Class-Transcending Use of High-Strength Steel

A host of structural enhancements combined with a full offering of active and passive safety systems make the Beat a segment leader in its class.

Its body is the stiffest and toughest in the mini segment; 66.5 percent of its body is constructed of high-strength steel and over 16 percent is made of ultra-high-strength steel. This ensures the highest level of protection in the segment. The solid structure played a key role in securing EuroNCAP rating in crash tests.

In addition, ultra-high-strength steel applied to the side structure minimizes the chance of the structure deforming in the event of a crash. High-strength steel is also used in the rear body structure to protect passengers as well as the fuel tank, minimizing the possibility of fuel leakage during a collision. The four-point mounted long engine cradle protects passengers in the event of a head-on collision by optimally dispersing crash loads. The collapsible steering column helps protect driver's chest in frontal collisions

The use of H-spider type ultra-high-strength steel bars in the underbody prevents severe deformation caused by a side crash. The tailor-welded blanking method used in the B-pillar ensures maximum protection of passengers' upper bodies. High-strength steel in the rear and rear crash boxes minimize the impact of whiplash.

The roof is especially stiff, for maximum rollover protection. The Beat has been developed to withstand up to four times its weight – which goes far beyond industry regulations. Safety features include driver and front passenger air bags a 4-channel/4-sensor EBD-ABS system and seatbelt with load limiter.

The Beat comes with a high localization content and the parts have been very competitively priced in line with Chevrolet's philosophy to provide low cost of ownership experience to the owners. It also comes with a segment best warranty of 3 years or 100,000 kms (whichever is earlier).

Available on the Logan, Logan MCV and Sandero – though not,

Dacia Logan, Logan MCV and Sandero Black Line – Click above for high-res image gallery

These days it seems like every color is being claimed for one cause or another. Medical research has laid claim to a few (pink and yellow come to mind), but so has the automotive industry: red for performance, green for hybrids, blue for clean diesels... Mercedes adopted black as the label for its most extreme AMG models, but now the shade is being used for something decidedly more low-rent: Renault's budget brand and Romanian subsidiary, Dacia.

Available on the Logan, Logan MCV and Sandero – though not, apparently, on the Logan pick-up or the upcoming new Duster crossover – the Black Line adds a touch of class to the budget cars. The package, based on the Laureate trim level, adds such "special" touches as metallic paint, visible top-stitching on the black fabric upholstery, MP3-capable CD player and a leather-trimmed steering wheel. Nothing ground-breaking here, and it's not going to outshine an SL63 by any means, but finally a car Top Gear's James May can drive to the symphony. Details in the press release after the jump and photos in the gallery below.

Dacia Black Line

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At the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas this week

Every carmaker has seen Ford's success in promoting its Sync technology, and they want a piece of that pie - as do many suppliers. Sync is built on top of a Microsoft-developed software platform and after a couple of years of Ford exclusivity, Kia just announced a similar system called Uvo. At the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas this week, Continental announced its own competing platform for in-car connectivity called Autolinq.

While Microsoft's in-car operating system is completely proprietary, Continental's system is based on the Google's open-source Android OS. Android's popularity is on the rise thanks to cell phones like the new Nexus One and the Motorola Droid. Continental hopes to leverage that community of software developers to create applications that can be downloaded directly to the car. This roughly mirrors Ford's recent announcement that developers will be able to create apps for Sync.

Continental plans to release a software development kit for Autolinq by the end of March, and have applications to demonstrate in the second half of this year. So far, there's no word on any automakers adopting Autolinq for their vehicles.

MyFord Touch-equipped mockup vehicle

Hands on with MyFord Touch and SYNC App Ecosystem – Click above for high-res image gallery

You've read the PR, seen the press shots and probably snickered a little at the quote from Ford's Derrick Kuzak indicating that his company's latest tech "will cause people to fall in love with their vehicles again." After getting a chance to play with a few entrants into the company's so-called SYNC App Ecosystem, and getting behind the wheel of a MyFord Touch-equipped mockup vehicle, we're not laughing – but we are smiling. It's impressive tech, so follow the jump to see some videos and check our impressions.

Ford Sync App Ecosystem and MyFord

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The Wall Street Journal that the extended-range electric vehicle

2011 Chevrolet Volt – Click above for high-res image gallery

We seem to know nearly everything there is to know about the 2011 Chevrolet Volt. Well, everything but one of the most important pieces of its environmentally friendly puzzle, that is: How much will it cost? Predictions vary widely, with the $40,000 mark widely bandied about as a likely target – though whether or not that figure arrives before or after a federal $7,500 tax credit is complete speculation. For its part, General Motors has said it won't set final pricing until late 2010.

Throwing a wrench into the Volt-price-guessing works is none other than GM's own head of global program management, Jon Lauckner, who has reportedly told The Wall Street Journal that the extended-range electric vehicle could hit the market for well under that preconceived $40K level. Fortunately, "We have until this summer to figure that out," he said. Perhaps we can create ourselves a Price is Right-style contest?

The notion that GM may launch the Volt earlier than initially planned – possibly as early as this upcoming summer or fall, well before the expected launch in November – is also reportedly being discussed by GM's top brass. Regardless of when the first few units hit the market, don't expect to see a national launch outside of a few carefully selected regions until well into 2011. Thanks for the tip, Berto!

2011 Chevy Volt

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The North American International Auto Show

2011 Cadillac CTS Coupe – Click above for high-res image gallery

The North American International Auto Show is typically the big show for Detroit-based automakers and 2010 appears to be no different for General Motors. Chris Preuss, GM's vice president of communications, has hit Twitter confirming that each of the General's four brands will have at least one vehicle to display at the Detroit Auto Show next month. As expected, Cadillac will unveil the 2011 CTS-V coupe along with a concept version of its XTS sedan, a model slated to replace the aging DTS in the next year or two. GMC will unleash the Granite, which, according to earlier reports, will be based on the Delta platform and the forthcoming Chevrolet Orlando.

Chevrolet figures to have a somewhat quieter show, with its big reveal being the Aveo RS, which we hear is all-new and very little like the narrow and unattractive B-Segment hatch GM is selling now. Buick will be chasing the ghosts of Grand Nationals and T-Types past with a performance variant of the 2011 Regal that may share a lot of parts with the 325-horsepower Opel Insignia OPC. We can hardly wait for January 11.

2011 Cadillac CTS Coupe

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like the Range Rover.

Land Rover is not going to make a full blooded Sport model of the Freelander with big V8 engine, like the Range Rover. That’d be too expensive and no one would buy it. Instead, from 2010 they offer a Sport Edition, which comes with unique styling, more luxury, efficient engine and great value for money.

Going on sale form January next year, the Freelander 2 Sport has a distinctive appearance to set it apart form the regular models. It comes in two colors: Santorini Black and Lago Grey and features 19″ limited edition diamond-turned alloy-wheels, rear spoiler and two-tone interior trim.

The interior of Freelander can be had in cloth/leather as standard or exclusive fine leather in contrasting Ebony and Storm with the sport styling pack. It also has an Ebony-coloured centre-console and lower fascia complemented with two-tone door casings. There is also embossed Sport emblem on the front and outer rear seat head restraints.

Freelander 2 Sport is powered by 2.2-liter TD4 diesel engine which is mated to a manual gearbox and features start/stop system. At 42 MPG and 179g/km CO₂ emissions, it is one of the most economical and green cars in this segment.

2010 Land Rover Freelander 2 Sport pricing starts from £26,695 on-the-road.