If you ‘re among those very little who can really have the means the DBS Volante, Aston Martin gives you the choice of a manual gear box six-speed that ‘s.A. assembled to the back, or on option, automatic transmission of has lazy six-speed of Touchtronic.

But until you successfully convincing your wife that possession of Aston Martin is much much better than having your own house or if you stumble on a large fat inheritance, then flick by below new gallery high-research of the DBS Volante and the dream on owning one.

Furthermore, the Austrian tuning house claims that while the standard A4 2.0 TDI needs a distance of 1,600 meters (about a mile) to reach a speed of 180 km/h or 112mph, O.CTs version hits the mark after 1,100 meters or 0,7 miles.

Similary for the A3 Convertible, , O.CT Tuning’s upgraded ECU adds an extra 45HP to the 1.8 TFSI 160HP engine for a total output of 205HP that helps the car accelerate from standstill to 100km/h in 7,3 seconds, or around 1 second faster than the standard model.

Even though O.CT Tuning concentrated on the A4 and A3 Convertible models, apparently the software upgrades apply on any models with the same engines.

Other than that, these latest spy shots of an early prototype model show that the new 911 sports a lower roofline and a visibly wider rear track, while it also appears that the car has slightly grown in length. The heavily camouflaged rear-end that carefully hides the pop-up wing spoiler leaves a lot to the imagination.

What is clearly visible is the discreet roof spoiler mounted above the rear window that belongs to an extensive aero package that is said to significantly improve the 911′s aerodynamics on the move.

We don’t know all the details, but it is rumored that the package will also include an active front lip spoiler, variable front air intake(s) while some suggest that Porsche will go even as far as replacing the door mirrors with video cameras. As for the side air-vents seen in the prototype model, we’re not quite sure of what to make of them as there is a strong possibility that they are fake.

Despite the fact that Porsche recently updated the current 911′s six-cylinder boxer engines in the vehicle’s latest facelift in 2008, expect to see some improvements in terms of performance as well as in fuel consumption and emissions. That said, the naturally-aspirated flat-six in the basic Carrera and Carrera S models could produce around 360 and 400 horsepower respectively.

Depending on the version, power will channeled to the rear-wheels or to all four wheels through a six-speed manual gearbox or the optional seven-speed double clutch PDK gearbox which may receive some minor tweaks by then.

The first 911 models to hit the market will be the Carrera and Carrera S coupes in late 2011 followed shortly after by the convertible and targa models, and later on, the Turbo, GT2 and GT3 variants.

HYUNDAI NUVIS CONCEPT MAKES WORLD DEBUT AT NEW YORK AUTO SHOW
NEW YORK, April 9, 2009 – The world will have the opportunity to peer into Hyundai’s future when the Nuvis concept makes its world debut at the 2009 New York International Auto Show.

The Nuvis is the eleventh signature concept car to be designed at the company’s California Design Center in Irvine, Calif. In addition to showcasing the brand’s cutting-edge capabilities, Nuvis also hints at a possible design direction for a future-generation crossover, blending attributes of a tall urban car and a premium utility vehicle.

Consistent with Hyundai’s pledge to lead all brands in U.S. fuel economy by 2015, Nuvis is powered by Hyundai’s Hybrid Blue Drive architecture, which uses breakthrough lithium polymer battery technology.

EVOLUTION OF THE DESIGN

In developing the initial sketches, Hyundai designers considered the interplay of natural, fluid elements with more rigid surfaces and structures to create the illusion of constant motion. Specifically, designers studied the way water splits across and flows around the hull and sides of a boat, creating a wake, or the way wind shapes a snowdrift or flurries through trees. The living power of these elements is reflected in the Nuvis’ design.

“Our goal was to create a living machine, constantly moving, that the driver and passengers could be part of,” said John Krsteski, Hyundai Design manager. “There are no lines on or in this car that are standing still.”

In addition to invoking the impression of irrepressible motion, the Hyundai design team took more practical matters into account as well. Nuvis is designed to accommodate the diverse interests of a modern, active couple. The Nuvis is meant to be comfortable starting its day at a desert retreat, arriving at the ski slopes in the afternoon and then cruising to a formal dinner that evening.

The design team sought to create a vehicle that would complement its environment, without making a negative impact. The versatility of the vehicle’s design, combined with Hyundai’s Hybrid Blue Drive technology, accomplishes exactly this.

EXTERIOR DESIGN

The Nuvis has an assertive face demonstrated by the strong, hourglass shape that frames the blue acrylic shield grille and aggressive headlamps, whose two glowing white rings are offset by a pair of red rings on the taillights.

Perched on top of 22-inch wheels, Nuvis’ proportions are tall, strong and protective. The two body-side lines set up a flowing water effect, giving the appearance of motion.

In addition to the dynamic angles and firm stance, the Nuvis boasts a host of unique exterior elements.

“One of the coolest attributes of Nuvis is that the protective roof appears to float on top of the body through the use of hidden pillars and high-contrast glass,” said Andre Hudson, Hyundai senior designer. “This effect starts at the headlamps and is carried all the way through to the taillights producing a tall, strong body-side and rear.”

Large gull-wing doors, either opened or closed, create unique front, rear and profile views. Blue ambient lighting cast across the body adds to the overall upscale feel of the vehicle.

An additional design element featured on the Nuvis is a brushed aluminum accent that spans the entire length of the vehicle. Normally, this type of trim is only found around the windows. On the Nuvis, this trim extends out from the headlamps, juts up along the hood and through the beltline, across the top and into the rear spoiler.

INTERIOR DESIGN

In keeping with the exterior design scheme, the Nuvis’ spacious and luxurious interior is dominated by a cool, blue acrylic center stack that ebbs and surges in the manner of a river. The cascading floor, with its ambient blue lighting, further enhances an environment in which seamless technology flows, enveloping both the driver and passengers.

A current of information coming from the instrument panel streams throughout the cockpit, as passengers are able to access each other via Methode Electronics TouchSense® technology that links all four business-class seats. The car’s infotainment system is fed by channels from the outside – the occupants, for instance, can learn of a restaurant’s specials that evening as they drive past it.

The sculptured, comfortable seats are custom woven with a graduated fabric that is finished in a silver-to-black sunburst. The ecologically-friendly seating fabric is provided by True Textiles, the industry’s leading provider of environmentally responsible textile solutions. The Nuvis fabric is made from 100 percent post-consumer recycled polyester – reclaimed soda bottles – and increasingly sustainable manufacturing processes. Hyundai collaborated with the True creative team to produce this unique fabric with an 80-inch repeat, providing a fabric that is as attractive to the environment as it is to the viewer. The matching seatbelts are provided by Harveys Original Seatbeltbags, a well- known manufacturer of handbags made out of seatbelts. Harveys also developed two matching handbags for the Nuvis concept.

HYUNDAI’S HYBRID BLUE DRIVE ARCHITECTURE

Your browser may not support display of this image. Hyundai’s all-new, homegrown Hybrid Blue Drive architecture helps define the Nuvis concept. Hyundai’s proprietary parallel hybrid drive system mates the already fuel-efficient 2.4-liter Theta II engine to a 6-speed automatic transmission and a 30kW (205 N-m) electric motor for maximum fuel economy.

Hybrid Blue Drive has an all-electric mode and a parallel drive mode, meaning that the wheels are turned by power coming directly from the gasoline engine, or the electric motor, or both together, as conditions demand. This parallel hybrid drive architecture will serve as the foundation for future Hyundai hybrid drive vehicles, starting with the next-generation Sonata in the United States.

To maximize fuel economy, all of the Theta II’s major driveline and cooling system components have been optimized to reduce friction, while the crankcase has been filled with low friction oil.

Engine management software automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle comes to a halt, cutting emissions to zero. The engine automatically restarts when pressure is reapplied to the accelerator pedal due to the Integrated Starter Generator (ISG).

To further reduce fuel consumption, the Theta II’s engine management software, which governs injection pressure, engine cycle timing and exhaust retreatment rates, has been revised. This control strategy assures that maximum efficiency is achieved during gentle acceleration, while greater power is immediately available during full acceleration. During deceleration, regenerative braking also comes into play to help conserve energy.

To ensure that the engine runs at lower RPMs, the top three gear ratios in the transmission have been extended. Fuel economy is further optimized through the latest electric motor-assisted steering system which reduces power drain and low resistance tires.

The nine major components of Hyundai’s Hybrid Blue Drive include:

1. An efficient 30kW electric motor, delivering 205 N-m of torque
2. A regenerative braking system
3. An integrated starter generator that enables the engine to turn off at stops and restart automatically under acceleration
4. A breakthrough lithium polymer battery package, with 5.3 Ah of capacity at 270 volts
5. Optimized Theta II 2.4-liter engine
6. 6-speed automatic transmission with an improved-efficiency electric oil pump />7. Weight-efficient architecture coupled with a low drag coefficient
8. Electric air conditioning compressor
9. Hybrid power control unit

LITHIUM POLYMER BATTERY TECHNOLOGY

Hyundai’s hybrid system stores its electrical charge in a 270V lithium polymer rechargeable battery (5.3Ah/270V) that surpasses both existing nickel-metal hydride and pending lithium-ion applications. Lithium polymer batteries are more durable and space-efficient than other, bulkier hybrid batteries.

HYUNDAI NUVIS CONCEPT MAKES WORLD DEBUT AT NEW YORK AUTO SHOW
NEW YORK, April 9, 2009 – The world will have the opportunity to peer into Hyundai’s future when the Nuvis concept makes its world debut at the 2009 New York International Auto Show.

The Nuvis is the eleventh signature concept car to be designed at the company’s California Design Center in Irvine, Calif. In addition to showcasing the brand’s cutting-edge capabilities, Nuvis also hints at a possible design direction for a future-generation crossover, blending attributes of a tall urban car and a premium utility vehicle.

Consistent with Hyundai’s pledge to lead all brands in U.S. fuel economy by 2015, Nuvis is powered by Hyundai’s Hybrid Blue Drive architecture, which uses breakthrough lithium polymer battery technology.

EVOLUTION OF THE DESIGN

In developing the initial sketches, Hyundai designers considered the interplay of natural, fluid elements with more rigid surfaces and structures to create the illusion of constant motion. Specifically, designers studied the way water splits across and flows around the hull and sides of a boat, creating a wake, or the way wind shapes a snowdrift or flurries through trees. The living power of these elements is reflected in the Nuvis’ design.

“Our goal was to create a living machine, constantly moving, that the driver and passengers could be part of,” said John Krsteski, Hyundai Design manager. “There are no lines on or in this car that are standing still.”

In addition to invoking the impression of irrepressible motion, the Hyundai design team took more practical matters into account as well. Nuvis is designed to accommodate the diverse interests of a modern, active couple. The Nuvis is meant to be comfortable starting its day at a desert retreat, arriving at the ski slopes in the afternoon and then cruising to a formal dinner that evening.

The design team sought to create a vehicle that would complement its environment, without making a negative impact. The versatility of the vehicle’s design, combined with Hyundai’s Hybrid Blue Drive technology, accomplishes exactly this.

EXTERIOR DESIGN

The Nuvis has an assertive face demonstrated by the strong, hourglass shape that frames the blue acrylic shield grille and aggressive headlamps, whose two glowing white rings are offset by a pair of red rings on the taillights.

Perched on top of 22-inch wheels, Nuvis’ proportions are tall, strong and protective. The two body-side lines set up a flowing water effect, giving the appearance of motion.

In addition to the dynamic angles and firm stance, the Nuvis boasts a host of unique exterior elements.

“One of the coolest attributes of Nuvis is that the protective roof appears to float on top of the body through the use of hidden pillars and high-contrast glass,” said Andre Hudson, Hyundai senior designer. “This effect starts at the headlamps and is carried all the way through to the taillights producing a tall, strong body-side and rear.”

Large gull-wing doors, either opened or closed, create unique front, rear and profile views. Blue ambient lighting cast across the body adds to the overall upscale feel of the vehicle.

An additional design element featured on the Nuvis is a brushed aluminum accent that spans the entire length of the vehicle. Normally, this type of trim is only found around the windows. On the Nuvis, this trim extends out from the headlamps, juts up along the hood and through the beltline, across the top and into the rear spoiler.

INTERIOR DESIGN

In keeping with the exterior design scheme, the Nuvis’ spacious and luxurious interior is dominated by a cool, blue acrylic center stack that ebbs and surges in the manner of a river. The cascading floor, with its ambient blue lighting, further enhances an environment in which seamless technology flows, enveloping both the driver and passengers.

A current of information coming from the instrument panel streams throughout the cockpit, as passengers are able to access each other via Methode Electronics TouchSense® technology that links all four business-class seats. The car’s infotainment system is fed by channels from the outside – the occupants, for instance, can learn of a restaurant’s specials that evening as they drive past it.

The sculptured, comfortable seats are custom woven with a graduated fabric that is finished in a silver-to-black sunburst. The ecologically-friendly seating fabric is provided by True Textiles, the industry’s leading provider of environmentally responsible textile solutions. The Nuvis fabric is made from 100 percent post-consumer recycled polyester – reclaimed soda bottles – and increasingly sustainable manufacturing processes. Hyundai collaborated with the True creative team to produce this unique fabric with an 80-inch repeat, providing a fabric that is as attractive to the environment as it is to the viewer. The matching seatbelts are provided by Harveys Original Seatbeltbags, a well- known manufacturer of handbags made out of seatbelts. Harveys also developed two matching handbags for the Nuvis concept.

HYUNDAI’S HYBRID BLUE DRIVE ARCHITECTURE

Your browser may not support display of this image. Hyundai’s all-new, homegrown Hybrid Blue Drive architecture helps define the Nuvis concept. Hyundai’s proprietary parallel hybrid drive system mates the already fuel-efficient 2.4-liter Theta II engine to a 6-speed automatic transmission and a 30kW (205 N-m) electric motor for maximum fuel economy.

Hybrid Blue Drive has an all-electric mode and a parallel drive mode, meaning that the wheels are turned by power coming directly from the gasoline engine, or the electric motor, or both together, as conditions demand. This parallel hybrid drive architecture will serve as the foundation for future Hyundai hybrid drive vehicles, starting with the next-generation Sonata in the United States.

To maximize fuel economy, all of the Theta II’s major driveline and cooling system components have been optimized to reduce friction, while the crankcase has been filled with low friction oil.

Engine management software automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle comes to a halt, cutting emissions to zero. The engine automatically restarts when pressure is reapplied to the accelerator pedal due to the Integrated Starter Generator (ISG).

To further reduce fuel consumption, the Theta II’s engine management software, which governs injection pressure, engine cycle timing and exhaust retreatment rates, has been revised. This control strategy assures that maximum efficiency is achieved during gentle acceleration, while greater power is immediately available during full acceleration. During deceleration, regenerative braking also comes into play to help conserve energy.

To ensure that the engine runs at lower RPMs, the top three gear ratios in the transmission have been extended. Fuel economy is further optimized through the latest electric motor-assisted steering system which reduces power drain and low resistance tires.

The nine major components of Hyundai’s Hybrid Blue Drive include:

1. An efficient 30kW electric motor, delivering 205 N-m of torque
2. A regenerative braking system
3. An integrated starter generator that enables the engine to turn off at stops and restart automatically under acceleration
4. A breakthrough lithium polymer battery package, with 5.3 Ah of capacity at 270 volts
5. Optimized Theta II 2.4-liter engine
6. 6-speed automatic transmission with an improved-efficiency electric oil pump />7. Weight-efficient architecture coupled with a low drag coefficient
8. Electric air conditioning compressor
9. Hybrid power control unit

LITHIUM POLYMER BATTERY TECHNOLOGY

Hyundai’s hybrid system stores its electrical charge in a 270V lithium polymer rechargeable battery (5.3Ah/270V) that surpasses both existing nickel-metal hydride and pending lithium-ion applications. Lithium polymer batteries are more durable and space-efficient than other, bulkier hybrid batteries.

Having already launched a bespoke audio system for the DBS in 2008, Aston Martin and Bang & Olufsen went ahead and introduced the BeoSound DB9 which has been developed and designed exclusively as an option for both DB9 Coupe and Volante variants. Among the highlights of the new audio system are the thirteen speakers positioned in ten locations around the car including two ‘submergible’ twin acoustic lens speakers on both sides of the dashboard.

The Geneva Motor Show saw the world premiere of the Ferrari 599XX, an extreme track-focused version of the Prancing Horse’s two-seater GT. Destined to replace the FXX, Ferrari said that it will be organizing a programme of dedicated track events for the 599XX in 2010/2011. Since the car was conceived exclusively for track but not official competition use, Ferrari was not restricted either by homologation limitations or regulatory restrictions during the 599XX’s development.

Ferrari 599XX Starting with the powertrain, the firm’s engineers carried out extensive work on the V12 engine’s combustion chambers and inlet and exhaust tracts. These modifications, combined with the fact that internal attrition has been reduced and the maximum revs have been boosted to a whopping 9,000 rpm, helped achieve the target power output of 700 hp at 9,000 rpm. As for the transmission, a new gearbox shift strategy cuts overall gear-change times to just 60 ms.

The 599′s handling has been improved thanks to the adoption of a second generation SCM suspension system while the new racing carbon ceramic braking system promises to deliver shorter braking distances. The track-focused 599XX is equipped with a set of split-rim wheels shod in slick tires.

As you can see in the photos below, the 599XX features a full aerodynamic bodykit that helps produce an amazing 280 kg of downforce at 200 km/h or 125mph (630 kg at 300 km/h or 187mph) according to Ferrari.

And if you’re wondering what all these changes sum up to, we’ll just tell you that Ferrari claims that the 599XX lapped the Fiorano race track in 1 minute and 17 seconds, or 1 second faster than the Enzo-based FXX.