GM Media Release
As Americans celebrate the inauguration of a new president of the United States next week, another new Cadillac will grace Pennsylvania Avenue to lead the proceedings. President Barack Obama will ride in an all-new Cadillac Presidential Limousine, continuing a long tradition of Cadillac limousines that have served many U.S. presidents.
"Cadillac is honoured to again provide a new Presidential Limousine," said Mark McNabb, North America vice president, Cadillac/Premium Channel. "This is a great American tradition that we're delighted to renew with an all-new car featuring the best of Cadillac's dramatic design and technology."
The image of an American president greeting crowds from a Cadillac limousine dates to President Woodrow Wilson and the early days of the automobile, and continues into a historic new era. The latest Cadillac Presidential Limousine is a completely new design, succeeding the DTS Presidential Limousine that debuted in 2004. The new car incorporates many of the dramatic design and technology features of new and highly acclaimed Cadillac vehicles in a purpose-built format tailored to specific and exacting specifications befitting presidential transport.
Inside and out, the Cadillac Presidential Limousine includes many of the brand's signature design elements. Assertive, modern and elegant, the front of the car includes the intricate, dual-textured grille made famous by Cadillac's most popular current models, the CTS sport sedan and Escalade. Vertical design elements, such as the car's front and rear lighting, mirror those used on production models.
For largely functional reasons, such as optimal outward visibility, the car is slightly more upright than its predecessor. However, this new Cadillac Presidential Limousine occupies roughly the same overall footprint on the road as the previous model, with a similar size and proportion.
The side and rear profiles of the new Presidential Limousine are classic, elegant forms, evocative of Cadillac's STS and DTS luxury sedans. Inside the cabin, the car includes the finest examples of Cadillac's recent renaissance in design, technology and craftsmanship. The cabin blends modern design and technology with old-world craftsmanship. Major aspects of the cabin are cut and sewn by hand, the same process used in popular Cadillac models such as the CTS sport sedan.
Naturally, many purpose-built aspects of the car are specially designed and prepared for presidential use. The rear passenger area includes an extensive executive compartment with ample seating space, outward visibility and useful mobile office features.
The car was designed, developed and tested by specialists who adhered to an extensive set of specifications. It was subjected to an extreme testing regimen to ensure performance that achieves precise functional requirements. In doing so, security provisions were undertaken at all times during development to ensure the car's functional capabilities are preserved and confidential.
An embroidered presidential seal is positioned in the center of the rear seat back panel, as well as on each rear door trim panel. Presidential seals are also affixed to the exterior rear doors. The U.S. flag is placed on the right front fender, and the presidential standard is located on the left front fender when the president travels in the vehicle. High-tech LED spotlights illuminate the flags at night.
History – Cadillac and the U.S. Presidency
Cadillac has built limousines and special vehicles for U.S. presidents, diplomats, ambassadors and foreign dignitaries since the early 20th century, an iconic aspect of the brand that continues today.
Cadillac's central role began during World War I, when many Cadillac engines and cars were transferred to military and government service because of their superior durability and power. One of the first chief executives to use a Cadillac was President Wilson, who rode through the streets of Boston during a World War I victory parade in 1919. A lavish 1928 Cadillac town car was used in the Calvin Coolidge administration.
In 1938, two Cadillac convertibles, dubbed the "Queen Mary" and "Queen Elizabeth," were delivered to the U.S. government. Named after the great ocean liners of the time, the vehicles were 21.5 feet long, weighed 7,660 pounds and were equipped with a full ammunition arsenal, two-way radios and heavy-duty generators. Durable and reliable, the two "Queens" served Presidents Franklin D. Roosevelt, Harry S. Truman and Dwight D. Eisenhower.
President Eisenhower, known as a car buff, rode in one of the first Cadillac Eldorado models ever produced during his 1953 inaugural parade. The Eldorado represented a high point in automobile design history, as it had the first wraparound windshield, a feature quickly adopted on other new production models.
In 1956, the Queen Mary II and Queen Elizabeth II convertibles replaced the original series. The vehicles were slightly smaller, but like their predecessors, were fully armoured and featured state-of-the art communications. Moreover, the vehicles were fitted with narrow rims inside the tire in case the tires were shot out. The Queen Mary II and Queen Elizabeth II served not only President Eisenhower, but also Presidents John F. Kennedy and Lyndon B. Johnson. Both vehicles were retired in 1968.
The Ronald W. Reagan administration was delivered a 1983 Cadillac Fleetwood limousine and a Cadillac Fleetwood Brougham – Presidential Series was delivered to the William J. Clinton administration in 1993. Unlike previous models that typically were Cadillac cars adapted and modified by independent limousine companies, the 1993 Presidential Brougham was designed, developed and manufactured totally within General Motors and Cadillac. This included an extensive set of security measures to maintain confidentiality, a process that continues today.
Currently, the 1983 Cadillac Fleetwood limousine resides at the Ronald W. Reagan Presidential Library and Museum in Simi Valley, Calif., while the 1993 Cadillac Fleetwood Brougham is at the Clinton Presidential Center in Little Rock, Ark.
Cadillac has produced two presidential limousines this decade that remain in service. The first was a Deville Presidential model delivered to President George W. Bush in 2001. In 2004, President Bush debuted a new DTS Presidential model. It was the first application of a new design that launched later that year for the production DTS full-size sedan.
Source: GM Media Releases
2009 Cadillac Presidential Limousine
2009 Chrysler 200C EV Concept
Chrysler Press Release
The definitive blend of design and technology, the all-new Chrysler 200C EV concept redefines the idea of responsible mobility with a touch of class and sophistication never before embodied so elegantly in one vehicle.
"The Chrysler 200C EV concept represents the perfect blend of provocative design and leading-edge technology, as well as the new Chrysler DNA," said Frank Klegon, Executive Vice President – Product Development, Chrysler LLC. "Chrysler's latest concept vehicle combines the benefits of progressive, ENVI Range-extended Electric Vehicle technology – which offers nearly zero emissions during daily commutes – with a design that boasts a combination of modern shapes, a planted athletic stance with classic overtones and an undeniably luxurious interior.
"What makes the Chrysler 200C EV concept even more meaningful is the use of technology that will make travelling and managing one's life an absolute pleasure," Klegon added. "The 200C EV concept is a connectivity portal to the world outside, creating a rewarding relationship between driver and automobile. The result is a driving experience that celebrates the human instinct to be connected to our world."
The Chrysler 200C EV concept body was designed to manage aerodynamic forces while delivering a stunning form.
On the inside, the 200C EV continues the theme of embracing the future with a highly sculpted and richly appointed environment. The interior is free of switches and levers. All vehicle functions, settings and uconnect features are managed via a panoramic multimedia touch screen, a passenger-dedicated "techno-leaf" and a stowable tablet PC.
Based on a shortened version of Chrysler's successful rear-wheel-drive platform, the Chrysler 200C EV is a performance sedan in a package that looks spirited and agile. It delivers a blend of style, performance and amenities that both automotive and technology enthusiasts want.
"The Chrysler 200C EV embodies our passion for problem solving by combining the best of engineering and automotive design," said Ralph Gilles, Vice President – Design. "With the 200C EV, we were able to maximize the effectiveness of the ENVI powertrain with the stunning, wind-cheating vehicle shape, while pushing toward the future with the avant-garde interior and advanced in-vehicle connectivity.
"Designed for the car lover, the Chrysler 200C EV was inspired by Chrysler's dynamic design legacy, and provides a glimpse at the possibilities for a next-generation Chrysler performance sedan," Gilles added.
Source: Chrysler Press Releases
2009 Ferrari F60 F1 Racecar
Ferrari Press Release
The F60 is the fifty fifth single-seater built by Ferrari specifically to compete in the Formula 1 World Championship. The name of the car was chosen to celebrate the Scuderia's participation in all 60 editions of the Formula 1 World Championship since 1950 to date.
The project, which goes by the internal code name of 660, represents the Scuderia's interpretation of the regulations that come into force this year, which include very many new elements. As far as the aerodynamics are concerned, these modifications are the result of the work carried out by the OWG (Overtaking Working Group,) set up by the FIA in collaboration with the teams to produce a set of rules aimed at encouraging more overtaking on track: the front wing, which has a neutral central profile, common to all, is developed mainly on its side elements and is much wider than in the past: the bodywork can no longer carry the slotted apertures that had characterised the Ferrari cars over the past few years.
Other aerodynamic devices are also significantly reduced; the rear wing is higher and narrower than in the past; the diffuser has been moved rearward. The combination of changes naturally led the initial design phase down radically different routes when it came to the side pods and protection components: the apertures have been reduced in size and moved rearward, while the upper and rear elements are larger to aid the exit of air.
The new rules regarding aerodynamics have also led to modifications to the suspension, as these elements can no longer be enclosed to the same extent. The suspension system and the whole layout of the car have been redesigned in the light of the new rules in order to achieve the correct weight distribution.
The design also takes into account two other significant changes in the 2009 regulations: the possibility of using a kinetic energy recovery system (KERS) and the reintroduction of "slick" tyres. The KERS on the F60 was designed by Ferrari in collaboration with Magneti Marelli and is centrally mounted on the engine under the rear part of the chassis; its management has involved all departments of the Gestione Sportiva. The return to tyres with no grooves is another element which is down to the work of the OWG, as is the introduction of a flap on the front wing that can be adjusted by the driver when the car is moving.
The software for managing this tool, as well as for the KERS, was designed in Maranello. The transmission has been redesigned to optimise the aerodynamic efficiency of the car. The gearbox casing is again made in carbon and is still positioned longitudinally. The gearbox is fitted with a speed shifter. There is also a new braking system, with callipers designed by Brembo. Other important rule changes for this year stem from the work of FIA and FOTA (Formula One Teams Association) aimed at producing a significant reduction in the teams' operational costs.
As far as the engine is concerned, which retains its longitudinal mounting in the F60 and continues as a load bearing structure, the rules now state that a total of eight engines may be used over the 17 Grand Prix race weekends on the calendar.
Accordingly, the maximum permitted engine speed has been reduced to 18,000 rpm and the distance target for each unit is now around 2,500 kilometres. Furthermore, modifications have been made to the inlet trumpets, the position of the injectors and the configuration of the exhausts. The changes to the regulations mean that, on the reliability front, Shell has played a fundamental role in defining the lubricants for both the engine and gearbox.
As usual, the technical partners have played an important part right from the design and development stage of the entire car. Apart from the aforementioned Shell, a significant contribution has been made by the FIAT Research Centre, especially in the use of its simulation systems and by Brembo, in the development of the braking system. As usual, great attention has been paid to the management and optimisation of the materials used, at the design stage and through quality control, aimed at maximising performance while maintaining the highest possible levels of safety.
Source: Ferrari Press Releases
2009 Toyota FT-EV Concept
Toyota Press Release
Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc. today announced that it will display the Toyota FT-EV concept on opening Media Day at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS), confirming its plan to launch an urban commuter battery-electric vehicle (BEV) by 2012. This announcement, coupled with its compressed natural gas powered Camry Hybrid concept display at the 2008 Los Angeles Auto Show, signal Toyota's intention to broaden the scope of its advanced alternative-fuel vehicle development.
"Now, more than ever, while we are so focused on the pressing issues of the moment, we cannot lose sight of our future," said Irv Miller, TMS Group Vice President, Environmental and Public Affairs. "Nowhere is this more important than with our industry's duty and commitment to provide true sustainable mobility with vehicles that significantly reduce fuel consumption, our carbon footprint and overall greenhouse gases."
The FT-EV concept shares its platform with the revolutionary-new iQ urban commuter vehicle. Already a huge hit in Japan, the iQ is lightweight and seats four passengers in comfort and security, while delivering exceptional mileage, sporty performance, unique refinements and a fun, youthful image.
Toyota's FT-EV concept imagines an urban dweller, driving up to 50 miles between home, work and other forms of public transportation, such as high-speed rail. Although, for now, the FT-EV remains a pure concept, it represents a natural pairing of product strategies.
"Last summer's four-dollar-a-gallon gasoline was no anomaly. It was a brief glimpse of our future," said Miller. "We must address the inevitability of peak oil by developing vehicles powered by alternatives to liquid-oil fuel, as well as new concepts, like the iQ, that are lighter in weight and smaller in size. This kind of vehicle, electrified or not, is where our industry must focus its creativity."
Although BEVs and new smaller vehicles like the iQ will be a key component of Toyota's sustainable mobility strategy, the conventional gas-electric hybrid, like the all new third-generation Prius, is considered Toyota's long-term core powertrain technology.
Last year, Toyota announced that it planned to sell one million gas-electric hybrids per year sometime during the early 2010s. To accomplish this, Toyota will launch as many as 10 new hybrid models by the early 2010s, in various global markets. The new third-generation Toyota Prius and all new Lexus HS250h, both debuting in Detroit, are the first two examples of that effort.
Also, last year, Toyota announced that it would roll-out a large number of plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHVs) to global lease-fleet customers in 2010. That schedule has been moved up.
Beginning in late 2009, Toyota will start global delivery of 500 Prius PHVs powered by lithium-ion batteries. Of these initial vehicles, 150 will be placed with U.S. lease-fleet customers.
The first-generation lithium-ion batteries powering these PHVs will be built on an assembly line at Toyota's PEVE (Panasonic EV Energy Company, LTD) battery plant, a joint-venture production facility in which Toyota owns 60 percent equity. During its development, the new Prius was designed and engineered to package either the lithium-ion battery pack with plug-in capability, or the nickel-metal hydride battery for the conventional gas-electric system.
The 500 PHVs arriving globally in late 2009 will be used for market and engineering analysis. Lease–fleet customers will monitor the performance and durability of the first-generation lithium-ion battery, while offering real world feedback on how future customers might respond to the plug-in process.
"Future customers will have high expectations for these emerging technologies. This Prius PHV fleet program is a key first step in confirming how and when we might bring large numbers of plug-in hybrids to global markets," said Miller.
"Our business is no longer about simply building and selling cars and trucks. It is about finding solutions to mobility challenges today and being prepared for more daunting challenges in our very near future."
Source: Toyota Press Releases
2009 Panasonic Toyota TF109
Panasonic Toyota Press Release
Panasonic Toyota Racing officially began the 2009 Formula 1 season in cyberspace today with the world premiere of the team's latest car, the TF109.
The team's eighth season in Formula 1 sees major rule changes so the TF109, revealed exclusively on www.tf109-premiere.com, looked considerably different to its predecessor, featuring wider front wings and narrower rear wings among other modifications.
Today's world premiere completed an exhaustive development process which began in October 2007, when the 2009 regulations were confirmed. The TF109 begins pre-season testing on 19 January at Algarve Motor Park in Portugal.
Despite the TF109's fundamentally different appearance, Panasonic Toyota Racing's ambitious goals remain, as Chairman and Team Principal Tadashi Yamashina states: "Our target this year is to fight to win the first race for Toyota in Formula 1."
The significant progress shown in 2008, when the team hit its targets of returning to the podium and significantly increasing its points total, has bred confidence.
Panasonic Toyota Racing achieved two podiums, one front row start and, with 56, scored more points than in 2006 (35pts) and 2007 (13pts) combined. A Toyota was in the top 10 on the starting grid for 14 of the 18 Grands Prix, finishing in the points 12 times, with nine top-six finishes.
President John Howett says: "We have gained a huge amount of knowledge and improved considerably. There are many elements of our team which are at the very highest level so the challenge now is to fill any gaps and ensure the entire organisation is performing at the very top. Then we must put all the elements together and deliver the success we are all fighting so hard for."
Source: Panasonic Toyota Press Releases
2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS Grand Edition - 215 kW (292 hp)
Daimler Press Release
The new CLS Grand Edition special-edition model sees Mercedes-Benz introducing a new highlight to the segment for four-door premium coupes. A matt designo paint finish lends spectacular definition to the lines of the coupe and makes the CLS Grand Edition really catch the eye. This exclusive style is echoed in the interior with high-grade designo leather and high-quality equipment details. All of which makes the multi-design-award-winning Mercedes-Benz Coupe unmistakable.
Coupes are truly special cars. Not least the Mercedes Coupes, which have always epitomised automotive elegance, exclusivity and refinement at the very highest level. With the CLS, Mercedes-Benz paved the way for four-door coupes. The trend-setting model from Stuttgart inspires coupe enthusiasts with its exciting and muscular styling.
Even more pronounced lines through new paint
The new Mercedes-Benz CLS Grand Edition catches the eye straight away. A unique "designo magno platinum" matt paint finish brings the lines and contours of the premium Coupe fully to the fore and emphasises its multi-award-winning design. As well as being an eye-catching feature, the matt paint finish is highly scratch- and dirt-resistant. In keeping with the avant-garde paintwork, the radiator grille louvers are also painted in "designo magno platinum".
The Grand Edition customers can select from a choice of metallic paint finishes: obsidian black, iridium silver, carneol red or flint grey.
The additional exterior equipment for the CLS Grand Edition includes:
• Bi-xenon headlamps with dark headlamp casings, active light function and cornering light function in the fog lamps, headlamp cleaning system, and dynamic headlamp range adjustment
• Exclusive, high-sheen AMG18-inch 5-spoke light-alloy wheels with pockets painted in titanium grey, shod with 245/40 R 18 (front) and 275/35 R 18 (rear) tyres
• A "Grand Edition" insignia on the front wings designo interior displaying sporty, elegant touches
The no-nonsense elegance continues inside the car. Here a perfectly matched designo interior and a roof lining in anthracite Alcantara, together with the standard-fit tilting/sliding glass roof, define the sporty, elegant style. Special touches are provided by the designo leather upholstery in "marron" – with the option of substituting this shade for sand, black, mystic red, porcelain or chablis.
The trim elements in high-quality laurel wood can be ordered with either a matt or a high-gloss finish. The same material is used for the selector lever and the wood/leather steering wheel. Sport pedals in brushed stainless steel with rubber studs underline the sporting credentials of the CLS Grand Edition.
The extensive range of equipment includes the sophisticated COMAND APS Multimedia control and display system, comfort telephony, PARKTRONIC and “Grand Edition” velour floor mats.
Pioneering engine technology in the CLS 350 CGI
There are four engine variants available for the CLS Grand Edition, including the V6 unit for the entry-level CLS280 model and, perhaps most impressively of all, the CGI direct-injection power plant for the CLS350 CGI model, offering high output and low fuel consumption. This V6 engine with piezoelectric direct injection and spray-guided combustion develops 215 kW/292 hp and consumes just 9.1 litres of premium unleaded petrol per 100 kilometres (NEDC combined).
The Mercedes-Benz CLS Grand Edition can be ordered from January 2, 2009. Prices start at 67,294.50 Euros incl. VAT (CLS280 Grand Edition). The deliveries to customers start in March 2009.
Source: Daimler Press Releases
2009 ABT Volkswagen Golf VI
ABT Press Release
That's what a winner looks like: since 1974 the VW Golf has dominated not just its vehicle class, but since then it has been Germany's favourite car almost every year – a success story, which ABT has also co-written.
This is because for just over 35 years the Allgauers have looked after the "Golfs", from the very first one to the current new, sixth version of the long-time favourite.
And as usual, ABT has once again had great success with it: with the tailor-made body-kit the designers from Kempten underline the fine character of the number one and give it an extra dose of sportiness.
The front grill and spoiler, side skirts, rear spoiler and rear skirt make the ABT Golf VI seem dynamic and give it class.
The components also suit the angled 4-pipe rear muffler and the AR and BR alloys perfectly.
Anyone wanting the complete ABT look can also save money with the exclusive and complete exterior Package.
This package also contains, in addition to the ABT AR or BR alloys, the ABT springs. For the new Golf the car tuner also offers a finely tuned ABT coil-over suspension system, the ABT braking system and the ABT sports braking system. These components guarantee you driving enjoyment and safety.
It is, of course, not just the "exterior values" that impress with the ABT Golf VI: the performance improvements offer sportiness, while at the same time are also completely modern.
The magic word here is downsizing and it is extremely effective especially with the 1.4 TSI.
The most powerful version of the unit offers an impressive 210 hp (154 kW) instead of 160 hp (118 kW).
That corresponds to the power of the 2.0 TSI, which has a larger engine, and it provides similar sporty performance at considerably lower consumption and thereby lower emissions.
The engine is also durable, reliable and suitable for everyday use, as these "internal values" are written into the specifications of every ABT engine.
Even the "smaller" 1.4 TSI, which provides an impressive 160 hp (118 kW) on the road instead of 122 hp (90 kW), combines driving enjoyment with durability, as does the successful 2.0 TSI.
With ABT the sporty two-litre car provides 240 hp (176 kW) instead of 210 hp (154 kW).
An economical alternative especially for regular drivers is the 2.0 TDI, which impresses at ABT with robust torque and 170 diesel horsepower (125 kW).
The 30 extra-hp make themselves felt in the handling which is considerably more agile. The new ABT Golf VI is an all-round impressive vehicle, the best symbiosis of individuality, sporty aspirations and modern technology.
Source: ABT Press Releases
2009 Carlsson Mercedes-Benz CK63 RS - 6.2L V12 with 600 hp & 520 lb-ft
Carlsson Press Release
With its CK63 RS refinement, Carlsson brings significantly more pressure on the streets than the Mercedes Benz SL 63 AMG which provides the basis for the new vehicle. More performance, a complete aerodynamics kit, finest leather in the interior and an exclusive varnish are the hallmarks of the new roadster from the Merzig-based company.
Carlsson, the automobile manufacturer specialised on Mercedes Benz models, invigorates the eight-cylinder with significantly more performance. Although the cubic capacity with 6,208 cc has not been changed, the refined power engine renders up to 600 hp (441 kW) instead of the serial 525 hp (386 kW) with the AMG.
Also the maximum torque rises from 630 Newton metres at 5,200 rpm to 705 at 5,100 rpm. With the Carlsson refinement, the sprint from zero to a hundred only takes 4.1 seconds and is therefore half a second faster than the AMG-model. The acceleration is electronically limited at respectable 325 km/h instead of 250 km/h.
In order to convey the power of the engine to the road, an extensive aerodynamic kit presses the CK63 RS onto the tar and provides an optimal grip. The air which is aspirated at the car front flows out through specially formed outlets at the car wings. Front apron and rear diffuser are made of polyurethane (PU) and are refined with carbon fibre elements which direct the air-flows for the best possible road grip.
C-Tronic Suspension – Intelligent Lowering
Moreover, the best road holding is guaranteed by the electronic lowering kit C-Tronic Suspension by Carlsson combined with the ABC-sports running gear by AMG. This enables to lower the roadster up to 30 millimetres. The high-performance brake system Carlsson Carbon Composite takes over the negative acceleration. At the front axle, 6-piston callipers carve into the 398x36 millimetre carbon composite brake discs. At the rear axle, two 4-piston callipers grab the 330x35 millimetre brake discs and stop the forged Carlsson 1/16 Ultra Light wheels sized 9.5x20 inches at the front and 11x20 inches at the back within the shortest time. As far as the last centimetres to the road are concerned, Carlsson chose the high- performance Dunlop SP SportMaxx with 255/30 ZR20 at the front- and 305/25 ZR20 at the rear axle.
Even when the CK63 RS is parked, it impresses with its breathtaking varnish called "Stealth Titanium Graphite", the far-most matt black colour that was ever produced. The co-operation between the internationally successful Mercedes-Benz refiner Carlsson and the expert for varnishes, Standox from Wuppertal, has led to a striking result. "Matt black was not enough for us" says Stafan Müller, responsible for Marketing at Carlsson. "We wanted a black varnish with such an extensive matt degree as it has never been seen before". This intention was more than successful with the CK63 RS. Normally matt varnishes reach a degree of 20 to 25 gloss units, but the particular colour which has been especially developed for Carlsson, only has five gloss units. "And the colour shade still remains brilliant and is neither blurred nor milky" ensures Sascha Pfeffer, application technology manager at Standox.
Apart from alterations for the varnish, engine and running gear, Carlsson also equipped the CK63 RS with a new interior. The seat sides, the inner lining of the doors and the cockpit hood scoop are made of charcoal-coloured ultra suede. The light ornamental seam renders an elegant contrast on these component parts. The soft velour car mats and the headrests are adorned with the prancing Carlsson horse. The driver enters the cock-pit by opening the gull-wing RS doors and by stepping over the door sill protectors with the illuminated manufacturer logo.
With the CK 63 RS, Carlsson once more affirms its expertise as an exclusive manufacturer of high-quality Mercedes automobiles. The new model is offered for 272,500 euros including VAT.
For more information about the Carlsson CK63 RS on the basis of the SL 63 AMG and all refining possibilities for the entire Mercedes Benz range from A- to S-class and Smart, please visit the Carlsson website.
Source: Carlsson Press Releases
2009 BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo - Ultimate Driving Machine
BMW Press Release
With the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo, BMW opens a new segment in the automobile market by incorporating BMW driving dynamics, quality, and style into a new type of vehicle. As was the case with the BMW X5 as the world’s first Sports Activity Vehicle and the BMW 1 Series, to this day the only rear-wheel-drive premium small car, BMW is again developing a new market segment and giving additional driver groups the unique experience of The Ultimate Driving Machine.
The BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo is the production-destined rendition of the Progressive Activity Sedan (PAS) development idea. For the first time, this concept car combines the looks and appearance of a sporty BMW Sedan, a modern Sports Activity Vehicle, and a classic Gran Turismo. Perhaps the most outstanding feature of the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo is its combination of stylish quality, luxurious comfort, and remarkable convenience.
As the name indicates, the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo is the ideal car for long journeys while still offering a dynamic driving experience in everyday traffic or short jaunts. The design of the body presents the character of a BMW dedicated to sporting performance.
A brilliant concept for modern mobility
The BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo conveys modern mobility by focusing on the requirements of a discerning driver who appreciates first-class ambience and enjoys all the benefits of a flexible interior.
With this in mind, the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo projects an individual flair oriented to each occupant’s needs and preferences. Such flair makes it possible to win over new driver groups for BMW. The BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo is an attractive offer to the driver wishing to retain classic features such as presence, luxury, and quality while living a versatile and spontaneous lifestyle.
The interior of the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo combines spaciousness, personal luxury, and an exquisite choice of materials to provide a first-class experience. The entryways allow ergonomically ideal access to all seats, the driver-oriented design of the cockpit, in typical BMW fashion, suggests sporty performance, and the slightly elevated seating position promotes good outward visibility.
Unique design in the rear provides a modern, generous atmosphere. With the rear seats adjustable fore-aft by up to 4”, both legroom and the seat angle may be set to the preferences of the passengers. Headroom is virtually the same as in the BMW X5, giving driver and passengers a genuinely comfortable experience.
Luxury, comfort, and impressive usefulness
With the rear seats slid aft, legroom will be roughly the same as in the BMW 7 Series and luggage capacity amounts to 15.1 cubic feet. With the rear seats moved forward and the rear bulkhead partition opened, luggage capacity increases to almost 20 cubic feet. Even in this position, legroom in the rear still meets the demands for a full-size sedan.
After completely folding the rear seats as well as the bulkhead partition leading to the luggage compartment, large and bulky objects may be loaded into the rear. With the bulkhead partition stowed in the floor of the luggage compartment, maximum luggage capacity becomes nearly 58 cubic feet. For convenience, the rear seats fold by pushing a button on the side panel of the luggage compartment. The option to fold down the rear seats individually provides even greater flexibility.
Optimum visibility thanks to the elevated seating position. In the front seats, both driver and passenger benefit from a slightly elevated seating position. This “semi-command” seating position offers an optimum outward view, much like in the BMW SAV models.
Elegant interior design accents the unique feeling of space
In the cockpit, the horizontally arranged, cascade-like surfaces finished in different materials strongly accentuate the width of BMW’s new concept car. The displays and controls are grouped according to their functions. Through its design, the instrument panel enhances the very good visibility provided by the elevated seating position, giving the driver a clear view from above of the control elements for the lights and the start/stop button on the middle level. Also important in this context, the horizontal orientation of the entire cockpit accentuates the generous character of the interior.
The trim bar stretching out as an arch through the entire width of the instrument panel continues into the door panels. The interaction of ascending and descending lines throughout the interior optically connects the front and rear seats. All lines and surfaces, finished with sophisticated materials, taper out behind the rear seats, and give the interior its comfortable and spacious character. The flow of lines, uninterrupted by the B-pillar, emphasises the length of the interior. Last but not least, the feeling of spaciousness is augmented by the center console, which extends all the way to the rear.
Special concept materials and colours within the interior
The colours and materials for the interior further enhance the impression of personal luxury and the interplay of surfaces and lines. All surfaces within the interior are finished in high-quality natural leather, the surfaces on the seats and the door armrests form a “comfort zone” in Glacier White leather. This creates the impression of a bright brand extending around the lower section of the instrument panel, the cool and elegant colour giving particular emphasis to the generous and luxurious feeling of space.
The bright surfaces in the comfort zone are surrounded by a dark, warm reddish brown, this special colour referred to as Copper Brown providing a smooth link to the exterior paintwork.
The impression of modern luxury is further enhanced through the use of authentic materials such as polished billet metal and ceramic elements. The quality of the interior finish is borne out particularly by the solid wood trim with metal inlays extending generously across the instrument panel.
Instrument cluster with colour display in black panel technology
The instrument cluster of the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo is a high-resolution colour display in black panel technology presenting the four round instruments in traditional sports car style, including status displays, navigation data, and information from the Check Control.
Introduced in the new BMW 7 Series, black panel technology ensures precise and sophisticated presentation of the instruments and displays. In Rest mode the entire panel forms a homogeneous black surface. When activated, the numbers on the circular instruments are generated electronically along with other symbols on the display.
The iDrive Control Display screen, arranged on the same plane as the instrument cluster, is integrated into the dashboard as a free-standing element. The Control Display forms one common design unit with the black panel and houses the controls for the audio system and climate. For optical purposes, this unit is separated by the horizontal trim bar with its central ventilation grid and a storage box. In the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo, the special look of black panel technology continues into the center console: dynamism in typical BMW style combined with the elegance of a Gran Turismo.
Exterior Dimensions
The body design of the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo ensures an exciting balance of innovation and tradition. The concept car stands out as a genuine BMW, as the overall look of the exterior clearly alludes to the extension of BMW’s model portfolio made by this unique automobile. Indeed, the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo enters new terrain in the history of The Ultimate Driving Machine.
In its exterior dimensions the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo fits perfectly between the BMW 7 Series and BMW’s various SAV models. Its length of 196.8" is second only within the BMW model range to the 7 Series, while the car’s height of 61.2" is exceeded only by BMW’s X models. The width is 74.8” and the wheelbase is 120.9”.
The characteristic look of the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo results from the car’s proportions - the long hood, long wheelbase, and the greenhouse moved aft bear out the athletic characteristics of a BMW. These features are combined with elements that highlight the qualities of the new concept; the large passenger cell bears testimony to the luxurious, versatile interior. The coupe-like roofline extends into the spoiler at the rear, and represents the sporting elegance of a Gran Turismo.
Paintwork in Fluid Cuprite, a new colour developed specifically for this concept car, again highlights the unique design of the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo. The extremely fine surface flair reminiscent of liquid metal impressively models the surfaces on the body through its powerful contours. And to provide an appropriate supplementary touch, the brake callipers and the inner surfaces on the exhaust gas tailpipes are finished in a new colour called Copper.
Front view with forward-pushing motion
The front view of the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo is characterised in particular by the strong presence of the low-slung BMW kidney grille, the large lower air intake, and BMW’s characteristic dual round headlights. The BMW kidney grille is slanted slightly forward, its upper edge marking the foremost point on the body. The kidney grille is further accentuated by surrounding surfaces.
All contour lines flowing along the engine compartment out of the fenders aim at the kidney grille at the front of the car. The air intake, in turn, is lower in the middle where it extends beneath the kidney grille. And last but not least the contours on the headlight units taper out smoothly towards the middle of the car.
Just as the size of the BMW kidney grille demonstrates the engine’s need for cooling air, the power dome in the middle of the engine compartment lid emphasises the sheer muscle of the engine itself. The outer flanks of the hood facing downward form a cascade-like contour together with the widely flared wheel arches, giving the front view of the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo a wide and powerful look.
The frontal impression is further enhanced by the foglamps positioned at the outer edges of the lower air intake, while the aluminium bars separating the two outer elements on the air intake and extending beyond the foglamps further enhance the look of width at the front.
Dual round headlights typical of BMW; new LED corona rings
The dual round headlights typical of a BMW come with new contour lines and a new technology for the daytime running lights on the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo. Slanted to a distinctive angle and extending far into the fenders, the headlight units are highlighted by surrounding bars, the headlights themselves cylindrical in shape bordering at the top on a matte headlight cover. This emphasises the unique look of the front end, with its clear, penetrating focus. Apart from the turn signals, the new LED corona rings for the daytime running lights generate bright, even light.
Side-view: coupe-like roofline and waistline emphasising the sleek elegance of the car
Appropriate lines along the side create the harmonious symbiosis of the front end, the side view and the rear section on the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo. The dominating feature from the side is the character line of a BMW extending from the outer edge of the headlights and moving back at the same level as the door handles along the entire length of the car, rising up slightly in the process and continuing into the contours of the rear light clusters.
The equally striking sill-line continues into the upper edge around the air intake at the front and the contour in the rear diffuser, this interplay of the waistline and the sill-line making the car look lower and more crouched down on the ground and emphasising the dynamic wedge of the body.
The unusual presence of a coupe-like roofline adds character to the car’s design and is a visual expression of the features and qualities the car has to offer. With its sporting flair, the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo leaves a positive impression through its spacious and generous interior.
The BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo comes with frameless doors, a feature of particularly sporting cars now to be admired for the first time on a 4-door BMW.
The door cutout bars are another special feature, forming one unit across both entry areas and thus corresponding with the overall harmonious flair conveyed by the door panels inside the car.
Large, flared wheel arches symbolise the sporting potential of the car: The BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo showcases 21-inch light-alloy wheels offering excitement and elegance through their unique multi-spoke design. Yet another feature of particularly sporting cars the short overhang, which keeps the fenders low and long. This effect is further intensified by the horizontal lines of the car borne out by the waistline as well as the joint and contour line on the engine compartment.
The “Hofmeister kink” re-interpreted in modern style
The design of the side windows also presents a re-interpretation of a classic BMW feature: on the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo the window surrounds are one-piece, this three-dimensional shape giving the aluminium frame a sophisticated and dynamic look around the famous “Hofmeister kink”. The exterior mirrors also represent a new design element, with the mirror base forming part of the foot of the A-pillars and thus blending harmoniously with the fender of the car.
The BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo offers a new rendition of the “Hofmeister kink.” In this case the inner radius of the “kink” is particularly large, the outer radius strikingly small. This creates an exciting contrast to the roofline moving down smoothly and gently to the rear.
Powerful rear design
The design of the rear end offers a striking impression of this unique concept with its exceptional strengths and features. The two outer roofline as well as the shoulder lines merge into the spoiler on the tailgate, giving the rear in its fastback style a surrounding line while adding a compact touch to the car.
The rear view of the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo is split by horizontal lines highlighting the width and powerful stance of the car. The rear reaches its full width around the wheel arches, with exhaust tailpipes positioned far to the outside also directing the eyes to the wheels. The distinctive light edge in the lower part of the bumper adds a further touch, while a diffuser finished in black marks the gap between the rear valence and the road.
Impressive versatility: two tailgates in one
With the rear panel of the car appearing to start directly beneath the rear light clusters in order to convey a sporting impression, the low loading sill on the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo is not visible at first sight.
Another innovation crucial to the mission of the car is only recognisable when opening the rear hatch: To stow luggage, the bi-modal trunk may be opened in traditional fashion or the entire hatch may be opened to load larger objects. When only the lower section is opened, one loads the luggage compartment as in a sedan, benefiting in the process from the low loading sill. Using the trunk in this way keeps the interior of the vehicle from being disturbed by outside climate effects.
The L-shape of the rear light clusters typical of a BMW is re-interpreted on the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo, with the two rows of light following a dynamic sweeping motion. The rear lights extend far into the side panel, emphasising the full width of the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo even at night.
The rear light clusters are connected by a chrome bar continuing from the waistline at the side into the line extending into the rear lights and thus accentuating the width of the rear end.
BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo: new momentum in a demanding market
With the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo, BMW is again demonstrating its ability to develop innovative vehicle concepts. The world’s most successful manufacturer of premium cars follows the challenges created by the need for up-to-date mobility solutions.
This new concept addresses a demanding driver group seeking to combine style, luxury, and impressive versatility with individual style, while meeting the demands and requirements of an active lifestyle. The BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo offers these qualities and reaches beyond BMW’s existing customer groups.
The BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo thus stands out as a modern interpretation of the Gran Turismo segment so rich in tradition, cars which at all times have combined athletic driving qualities with a truly comfortable interior.
Stylish elegance, luxurious spaciousness, and impressive versatility all come together in the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo. Features never before combined in one car make the new concept a truly progressive innovation serving ideally to set new standards in the most demanding upper midrange segment.
Establishing a new vehicle segment in this process, BMW is continuing its successful development strategy. Qualities typical of the brand are again carried into a new market with an innovative concept. Hence, BMW is using all of its innovative power to give new customers that unique thrill of The Ultimate Driving Machine® and to continue the ongoing growth of BMW in a lasting, long-term process.
Source: BMW Press Releases
