Mercedes SLS AMG Matte Editions Launched in Japan

Mercedes has unveiled the new SLS AMG Matte Editions - the replacement for the current SLS AMG for Japan.

The SLS AMG Matt Black Edition – only available as a roadster – comes with a designo Magno Night black exterior finish with a black soft top and red accents on the three-pointed star, grill fins, fin bonnet, fender fins, AMG Rear Emblem, 6.3 emblem and fuel lid. The interior has a two-tone color specification with Red/Black colors and the dashboard and door panels dressed in Nappa leather.

The Matte White special edition boasts the same setup, except the red accents found on the Matte Black edition are black on the Matte White edition. A clean white pinstripe highlights the black tires and the interior is elegantly done in a black and white motif. Further, carbon-ceramic brakes are available on both models as an option, but no particular modifications on engine were performed on either of the models.

The SLS AMG Coupe Matt in white costs 29 million Yen (US$366,400 / €293,500), while its Roadster sibling, 30 million Yen (US$379,000 / €303,500).





Press Release

Limited release the SLS AMG Matt Edition

limited number of special specification car mat paint body color (matte painting)
- contrast exterior paint shine by special metal parts

Mercedes-Benz Japan Co., Ltd. (President: Nicholas Speaks, Head Office: Minato-ku, Tokyo), the super sports car "SLS AMG (coupe / roadster)" of the model dedicated to the AMG Merceder matte painting of the setting and special (paintwork) will be released only through the authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer network across the country today that uses the metal parts of the special paint, the "SLS AMG Matt Edition".
This special edition car, announced in September last year, was well received your "SLS AMG Matt Black Edition (coupe)", "SLS AMG Matt Black Edition (roadster)" which continues to "SLS AMG Matt White Edition and we offer three models (coupe / roadster). "

"SLS AMG Matt Black Edition (roadster)" is, designo Magno Night black metal parts (three-pointed star, grill fins, fin bonnet, fender fins, AMG Rear Emblem, "6.3" emblem, fuel lid on the exterior of (Black Matte) Red was to paint), and then produce a unique and powerful exterior. The interior will be two-tone color specification sheet Furureza Classic Red / Black, with a sense of unity with the exterior Motaseru, texture enhanced by using the dashboard and door panels in nappa leather material also.

"SLS AMG Matt White Edition (coupe / roadster)" is, designo adopted (will be added door mirror covers the contents above) metal parts that are special paint in matte black on the exterior (white matte) Magno Cashmere White, The interior specification will be Furureza of porcelain / Black. In addition, these special equipment are assembled at the AMG Performance Studio as a model for Japan only.
AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension enhancing comfort and maneuverability electronically controlled damping force of the damper depending on driving conditions on all models, AMG performance steering (/ Alcantara ® leather), matte black paint AMG 10 spoke aluminum wheels (Matt Black Edition is the rim section is equipped with a red paint).

Lexus IS F CCS-R Race Car

Lexus has reveals the IS F CCS-R race car, ahead of its debut at the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb on July 8, 2012

The Pikes Peak Hill Climb is an annual automobile and motorcycle hillclimb to the top of the Pikes Peak mountain in Colorado. The track measures 12.42 miles with over 156 turns and climbs 4,720 feet.

The car overall weight is 693 lbs. lighter than the stock model thanks to lightweight doors, exterior and interior carbon fiber parts, lightweight bucket seats and other .

the Pikes Peak version is powered by a 5.0-liter V8 engine developing 416 hp and 371 lb-ft of torque, connected to an eight-speed transmission and a limited-slip diff at the back. That combined with the lightweight body should make it a helluva lot faster than the base car.

Inside, the car is also stripped down to cut weight. The dashboard is replaced with carbon fiber, and there are lightweight seats. In total, it weighs in at 3,087 lbs, which is 693 fewer than the production version.





Press Release

Lexus IS F CCS-R Race Car

EXTERIOR DIMENSIONS
Wheelbase 107.5 in.
Overall Length 187.4 in.
Overall Width 71.5 in.
Overall Height 54.5 in.

WEIGHT
Curb Weight 3,087 lbs. or less (693 lbs. less than stock)

ENGINE
Designation 2UR-GSE
Displacement 5.0L
Horsepower 416 @ 6,600 rpm
Torque 371 lb.-ft. @ 5,200 rpm
Fuel system SFI D-4 direct-to-cylinder injection with secondary port injectors

DRIVETRAIN
Layout Front engine, rear-wheel drive system
Transmission 8-speed Sport Direct Shift automatic with paddle shift and manual mode

EXTERIOR
Orange mica exterior paint
Reinforced monocoque (with roll cage)
Carbon fiber hood, door handles, front fender, front spoiler, front canard, rear spoiler, ventilator
Polycarbonate windows
Lightweight door

WHEELS/TIRES

SSR
18x8.5J, off-set 30 front
18x9.5J, off-set 40 rear
Yokohama /ADVAN NEOVA A050 tires
245/40 R18 front
255/40 R18 rear

BRAKES
Brake cooling system
Racing brake kit
Stainless steel mesh brake hose

SUSPENSION
Adjustable camber front upper arm
Modified race suspension
Reinforced bushings and mounts

EXHAUST
Racing exhaust system
OTHER MECHANICAL
Engine oil cooler
Transmission oil cooler
Differential oil cooler
Mechanical LSD

RACING EQUIPMENT
120L fuel cell
Air jack system
Fire extinguishing system
Data logger
Kill switch
Tow strap

INTERIOR
Carbon fiber dashboard, center console, door and interior trim
HANS compatible full bucket driver's seat
Lightened interior (delete power windows, door locks, rear seats, roof lining, etc.)
Six-point seat belt
Small-diameter steering wheel with paddle shifters

BT Design ETAPE concept

BT Design has unveiled a new Skoda concept at the 2012 Auto Mobil International Show (AMI) in Leipzig, Germany. The ETAPE Concept, as it is known, is a sporty pick-up truck based on the Czech crossover which is quite a sight in real life.The ETAPE Concept features plenty of changes from its four-door crossover cousin.

Though the ETAPE is based on the production version Skoda Yeti, the Pickup concept has been given a complete overhaul with two doors, a wide body kit, a flatbed in the back and a new cabin. The concept also dons a new front and rear fascia, new side skirts, flared wheel arches housing larger alloy wheels wrapped in low profile tyres and redesigned interiors. The only aspect that is left unchanged is the car's bonnet.




Press Release


The concept of ETAPE cannot be ignored


Benet Automotive works closely with the car manufacturer Skoda Auto a.s., so it is no coincidence that BA chose Skoda Yeti model to show example customization, which is very effectively adapted to its own open concept ETAPE. They want to demonstrate on Yeti the possibilities of starting their own design proposal, from major structural modifications to precise work of modelers in the development workshop. Cycle theme of exhibition commemorates the long-term commitment of Skoda Auto in this sports sector. Last but not least, there is the analogy of everlasting efforts of the motorists to escape from the ‚peloton‘ of serial production towards individuality.


The trend confirms that individuality is desired goods on the road


Customers of BT brand are individuals who desire uniqueness as well as companies which use modified cars with unique design to promote their own products and services. As currently displayed concept ETAPE shows, the possibilies are virtually endless. Ambition of BT brand, however, reaches even further, which is clearly illustrated by the words of Josef Zajicek, managing director and mastermind of the project: ‘We want to inspire individuals and the whole industry.Our aim is to provoke even greater demand for individualization of cars from both end user and manufacturers. At the same time we want to present the possibility of building a completely unique promotional vehicles to order to various companies. Here at Benet Automotive we have enough creativity as well as technical support needed for implementation.‘


Invention is not improvisation


On the exhibition piece ETAP, only front bonnet remains from the original body parts of Yeti. Reinforcing of the structure was solved with the help of modern computer technology. In addition to designers and engineers have also come into play other professions, like people working on car body, modelers, painters, uphosterers and many others.

2013 Ford F-150

Ford has releases photos and details for the 2013 Ford F-150. The new Limited model is the first trim to offer the option of either the 3.5-liter EcoBoost V-6 or the 6.2-liter V-8 engine.

On the outside, the biggest changes are newly-optional and class-exclusive HID headlights, new grille designs, optional power towing mirrors, and three new color choices. Several trim levels get some new interior color choices, and there's even an all-new Limited trim level.

The cabin benefits from a refined center stack that ditches the short, wide strips of small buttons on the outgoing truck in favor of larger centrally-located controls. Ford’s SYNC system is now standard on XLT trim levels and above, and the setup is paired with a new 4.2-inch multifunction display that sits atop the center stack and also displays audio and climate-control information.

Visual changes include the availability 18- and 20-inch wheels, as well as L-shaped high-intensity-discharge projector headlamps. An optional navigation system is also offered.





Press Release


Ford Reveals 2013 F-150, Celebrating Rugged F-Series Pickups and 65-Year Future Farmers of America Relationship

• Today Ford celebrates introduction of the 2013 F-150, featuring updated design and all-new driver controls technology, with Future Farmers of America (FFA) members, alumni and educators

• Ford Motor Company, a continuous FFA sponsor since 1948, has provided $7.1 million in Built Ford Tough® scholarships to tomorrow's farmers since 1997

• For 2013, F-150 introduces new front-end styling and advanced technologies such as MyFord Touch® voice-activated driver controls and high-intensity discharge (HID) headlamps

BRUCEVILLE, Texas, June 4, 2012 - Ford Motor Company today celebrates introduction of the new 2013 Ford F-150 - part of the best-selling line of pickups in America - with the agricultural professionals and leaders of tomorrow.


"Like our hardworking customers, Ford is committed to getting the job done right with our industry-leading trucks," said Mark Fields, Ford president of The Americas. "The 2013 F-150 demonstrates our commitment to continuously improving our trucks with new features and capabilities, allowing F-Series owners to be increasingly productive."


For 2013, the Ford F-150 receives new front-end design and advanced technologies such as MyFord Touch® with voice-activated driver controls and available high-intensity discharge (HID) headlamps.


"Farm families have always represented an important F-Series truck constituency," said Doug Scott, Ford Truck group marketing manager and FFA sponsor board member. "For these multitasking customers, a Ford pickup means family transportation, economic livelihood, rugged capability and reliability. Like FFA, Ford pickups are an enduring agricultural tradition, and we are delighted to join forces with them to reveal the new F-150 models."


America's pickup
For 2013, the most fuel-efficient and capable light-duty pickup on the market continues to push forward with updated design and advanced technologies. F-150 also adds even more breadth to its expansive lineup with a new Limited luxury model and availability of the groundbreaking EcoBoost® engine, powerful 6.2-liter V8, electronic-locking rear axle and Hill Descent ControlTM.


Outside, the F-150 lineup gets bold new grilles combining fresh designs with instantly recognizable F-Series cues highlighted on the XLT model revealed today.


New HID projector headlamps are available as a segment-first technology to deliver improved visibility and increase driver confidence.
HID technology provides exceptional lighting performance while contributing a distinctive look with stylish L-shaped lamps.


F-150 style also is enhanced with new 18- and 20-inch wheels offered in various trim packages.


Segment-exclusive power-telescoping and power-folding trailer-tow sideview mirrors add flexibility and convenience when operating in tight quarters, while enabling class-leading visibility.


F-150 pickups are available in three new hues including Blue Jeans Metallic, Kodiak Brown Metallic and Ruby Red Clearcoat Metallic.


Truck-focused technology
The 2013 Ford F-150 adds Ford's award-winning SYNC® voice-activated communications and entertainment system with 911 Assist® and Vehicle Health Report as standard equipment in XLT series and above. This enables hands-free, voice-activated control of enabled mobile devices.


Buyers may choose from an optional suite of SYNC Services, including Traffic Information, Turn-by-Turn Directions, Business Search, Send to SYNC from Google Maps and MapQuest, News, Sports, Weather and Horoscopes.


F-150 also introduces SYNC paired with a new 4.2-inch LCD center-stack screen that provides enhanced displays of audio and climate-control functions. In addition, the instrument cluster contains a 4.2-inch driver-configurable LCD productivity screen including menus for gauge setup, trip computer, fuel economy and towing/off-road applications.


Lariat, King Ranch®, Platinum and Limited series models are equipped with SYNC with MyFord Touch, adding voice control to more vehicle systems coupled with an all-new, large 8-inch LCD color touch screen mounted in the center stack. This package adds a media hub with two USB ports, an SD card reader and audio/video input jacks.


Ford's unique truck interface allows drivers to tailor their vehicle to their specific needs, such as wearing work gloves.


This premium system can be augmented with an available voice-activated Navigation System, SD map-card reader, point-of-interest storage and integrated SiriusXM Travel Link.


Interior design
The 2013 F-150 offers a range of interior updates. The new 4.2-inch multifunction display and MyFord Touch interfaces gave designers the opportunity to deliver a more modern center stack and control layout. Several new environment colors include a Steel Gray interior on Lariat and a Black interior for King Ranch. Both of these series receive upgraded wood grain appliqués to enhance premium style.


The aggressive FX Appearance Package now adds Alcantara seat inserts that amplify its sporty persona.


The Platinum series - synonymous with high-end trucks - offers new choices of Black or Pecan leather seating.


F-150 continues to offer a wide array of models and packages, allowing buyers to tailor their Ford pickup to their individual needs and preferences.


Fuel-efficient capability
From the powerful yet fuel-efficient EcoBoost® engine to the mighty 6.2-liter V8, the most powerful eight-cylinder engine in the segment, F-150 offers an engine to meet the needs of every customer. Each engine across the F-150 lineup is mated to a fuel-saving electronic six-speed automatic transmission with tow/haul mode, with tow packages and STX series and above adding SelectShift® capability.


F-150 engine choices include:


3.7-liter four-valve Ti-VCT V6

• Best-in-class 302 horsepower at 6,500 rpm

• Unsurpassed 278 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,000 rpm vs. V6 competitors

• Best-in-class 17 mpg city and best-in-class 23 mpg highway (4x2)

• Best-in-class 6,100 pounds maximum trailer tow vs. V6 competitors

5.0-liter four-valve dual-overhead-camshaft Ti-VCT V8

• Best-in-class 360 horsepower at 5,500 rpm vs. standard V8 competitors

• 21 mpg highway, unsurpassed 15 mpg city (4x2)

• Best-in-class 10,000 pounds maximum trailer tow vs. standard V8 competitors

6.2-liter two-valve single-overhead-camshaft V8

• Best-in-class 411 horsepower at 5,500 rpm

• Best-in-class 434 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,500 rpm

• 13 mpg city, 18 mpg highway (4x2)

• Best-in-class 11,300 pounds maximum trailer tow

3.5-liter Ti-VCT EcoBoost engine

• 365 horsepower at 5,000 rpm on regular fuel

• Best-in-class 420 lb.-ft. of torque at 2,500 rpm vs. premium V8 competitors

• Up to 90 percent peak torque available from 1,700 rpm to 5,000 rpm

• Best-in-class 11,300 pounds maximum trailer tow vs. all competitors

• Best-in-class 3,120 pounds payload vs. all competitors

• Unsurpassed 16 mpg city, 22 mpg highway vs. all competitors

"The 2013 Ford F-150 adds more style and technology that sets a benchmark for capability and efficiency in light-duty pickups," said F-150 Marketing Manager Raj Sarkar. "We continue to focus on the no-compromise solution for our customers, giving them all of the conveniences and technologies they want with the capability they need and the fuel efficiency to go further."


FFA and Ford - making a difference
Future Farmers of America is a dynamic youth leadership development organization that changes lives by empowering its 540,000 members to set a course for the future. FFA operates within the context of agricultural education to complement classroom and laboratory instruction with hands-on experiential learning, useful life skills and individual motivation.


The FFA mission is to make a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their leadership potential, personal growth and career success through agricultural education.


Ford's FFA alliance gets a boost from supporting Ford dealerships serving agricultural markets.
For the 2011-12 academic year, the Built Ford Tough® Scholarship Program and 285 participating Ford dealers awarded a total of 540 individual $1,000 grants for post-secondary education.


Now in its 15th year, the Built Ford Tough Scholarship Program, the Ford Fund, and participating Ford dealers have awarded $7.1 million in grants. Built Ford Tough Trucks also sponsors the affiliated National Association of Agricultural Educators (NAAE) Lifetime Achievement Awards and an FFA chapter grant program. In 2011, six winning chapters were each awarded a $3,000 grant to support local initiatives.


Ford has sponsored FFA since 1948, the same year Ford F-Series pickups first went on sale.