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Frankfurt IAA 2009 Main review

2009 IAA Frankfurt Motor Show was a great event for the automobile industry. Exceptional one off Concept cars illustrated some possible evolution in styling design or in alternative propulsion, most of the time both together. Automobile could become more compact and electronic driving assistance as well as entertainments of the passengers are getting more and more sophisticated.
 Frankfurt was the occasion for the world premiere of a few luxury saloon with handcrafted production and high level of selection and options for a rich interior finish. Four doors sports sedans are completing the range of most sports and Grand Touring car manufacturers.
  Frankfurt was also the place to see exclusive super sports cars proposed for a limited number of customers; Electric cars and hybrid vehicles where exhibited all over the Motor Show space so that we decided for a special section dedicated to electric and hybrid vehicles proposed on the market today or with a defined launching date.

1 - Mercedes SLS AMG 2009

Mercedes unveiled at Frankfurt the long-awaited SLS AMG Gullwing coupe following the tradition of classic sports car like the 1955 Gullwing 300 SL. The new sports car from Mercedes and AMG makes for an alluring proposition with its technology package: aluminium space-frame body with gullwing doors, AMG 6,3 litre V8 front-mid engine developing 420 kW/571 hp peak output at 6.800 rpm, 650 Nm of torque at 4.750 rpm and dry sump lubrication, seven-speed dual-clutch transmission in a transaxle configuration, sports suspension with aluminium double wishbones and a dry weight of 1620 kg. The Mercedes SLS AMG Gullwing accelerates from o to 100 kph in 3,8 seconds before going to a top speed of 317 kph (electronically limited). The fuel consumption is claimed at 13,2 litre per 100 kilometres. Estimated CO2 emissions is 314 g/km.

See Car Reviews - Mercedes SLS AMG Gullwing-  2009 – for further details and illustrations.

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2 -Volkswagen L1 Hybrid Concept

At the 2009 IAA Frankfort Motor Show, Volkswagen presented the L1 Concept that points the way toward the production version announced for 2013.The full hybrid tandem two seats vehicle weighs just 380 kg thanks to its carbon-fibre reinforced body (CFRB). With a combined fuel consumption figure of 1,38 litres of diesel per 100 kilometres, this extremely aerodynamic (Cd 0,195) Volkswagen suitable for everyday use is intended to become the most fuel-efficient automobile in the world. CO2 emissions of the 160 kph L1 are similarly low at 36 g/km. Maximum speed is announced for 160 kph.

See Car Reviews - Volkswagen L1 Diesel Hybrid Concept 2009 – for further details and illustrations.

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3 - BMW Vision EfficientDynamics

For the 2009 IAA Frankfurt Motor Show, BMW is introducing an exceptional Grand Touring 2+ 2 Plug in Hybrid Concept with performance capability claimed to be similar to a M3. Offering full hybrid concept, the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept car is powered by a three cylinder turbodiesel and two electric motors. The overall system output is 262 kW/356 hp and maximum torque of 800 Nm/ 590 lb-ft. All-wheel drive features an electric motor on both the front and rear axle. Anticipated performances are acceleration from standstill to 100 kph (62 mph) in 4,8sec, a top speed electronically limited to 250 kph (155 mph), a fuel consumption in the European test cycle 3,76 litres/100 km ( equal to 75,1 mpg (UK) and CO2 emission of 99 g/km. In electric only drive, the CO2 emission rating is just 50 g/km taking into account the sources of energy used for generating electric power consumed (European electricity mix). The car is able to cover a distance of approximately 50 km/ 31 miles in the electric mode alone.

See Car Reviews – BMW Vision EfficientDynamic Concept car 2009.

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4 - Ferrari 458 Italia

Ferrari unveiled its new Ferrari 458 Italia that replaces the F430. The Ferrari 458 Italia is an 8 cylinder two seater berlinetta with a mid-rear mounted engine that bears its name from the traditional figure the displacement and number of cylinder (45 = 4.500 cc, 8 for 8 cylinder) followed by Italia to pay an homage to the country where it was designed and manufactured. Thanks to a new 4.499 cc V8 engine, which punches out 570 hp, the F1 dual-clutch gearbox and the 1.380 kg dry weight, the 458 Italia sprints from 0 to 100 kph in under 3,4 seconds and hits a maximum speed of over 325 kph.

See Car Reviews – Ferrari 458 Italia – for further details and illustrations.

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5 - Audi E-Tron Concept

Audi presented the e-tron concept at the 2009 IAA Frankfort Motor Show. The Audi e-tron concept is represents a high-performance sports car with a purely electric drive system. Four electric motors, two each at the front and rear axles, drive the wheels, making the concept car a true quattro (four-wheel drive in Audi language). Producing 230 kW /313 hp and 4.500 Nm (3,319 lb ft) of torque, the two seater accelerates from 0 to 100 kph ( 0 to 62,14 mph) in 4,8 seconds, and from 60 to 120 kph (37,28 to 74,56 mph) in 4,1 seconds. The lithium-ion batteries provide a truly usable energy content of 42,4 kWh to enable a range of approximately 248 kilometres.

See Car Reviews – Audi E-Tron Concept Car for further details and illustrations

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6 - Lamborghini Reventon Roadster

The Lamborghini Reventon Roadster produced in only 20 units is a 1,1 Million Euros (without taxes) fast moving technical sculpture introduced at the 2009 IAA Frankfort Motor Show. The 6,5 litre twelve cylinder generates 493 kW/670 hp at 8.000 rpm, catapulting the Roadster from 0 to 100 kph ( 0 to 62 mph) in 3,4 seconds and onwards to a top speed of 330 kph (205 mph). It is one of the world's most powerful naturally-aspirated engines.

See Car Reviews – Lamborghini Reventon Roadster for further details and illustrations

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7 - Aston Martin Rapide 2009

The four seats Aston Martin Rapide features a hand-built 6,0 litre V12 engine producing 470 hp/ 350 kW with peak power being delivered at 6.000 rpm and 600 Nm/ 443 lbft peak torque at 5.000 rpm. A specifically tuned rear mid-mounted rear wheel drive six-speed Touchtronic 2 automatic transmission features as standard, allowing the driver to change gear automatically or manually via the steering column-mounted magnesium paddles. The 0 to 60 mph time is 5,1 seconds (0 to 100 kph in 5,3 seconds).

See Aston Martin Rapide 2009 – for further details and illustrations.

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8 - Renault Four electric cars for tomorrow

Renault introduces four electric concept cars providing a preview of the Renault's range of vehicles due to be released starting from 2011. These vehicles are designed to cater for different uses and customers. The ZOE Z.E. Concept is a compact versatile car aimed at motorists who use their vehicle for short journeys on a daily basis and who seek a comfortable, relaxing drive in an adjustable cabin. The Twizy Z.E. Concept see slides  is a definitive city car for busy people seeking an efficient and practical means of mobility. The Kangoo Z.E. Concept  is the forerunner of an electric van intended for fleet and business use. The Fluence Z.E. Concept  represents an elegant saloon capable of transporting up to five people in total comfort.

See Car Reviews – Renault Twizy, Zoe, Kangoo and Fluence ZEV – Zero emission vehicle -2009.

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9 - Rolls Royce Ghost

The new Rolls Royce Ghost replaces the Phantom with a more informal styling than the Phantom and with greater emphasis on driving. The design team was seeking to create a modern Rolls Royce that achieved a new dynamism but remained true in its luxurious heritage. It is powered by a brand new 6.592 cc. twin-turbo V12 engine featuring direct injection. It produces 563 hp at 5.250 rpm  enough to propel the Ghost from 0 to 60 mph in quoted 4,7 seconds ( 0 to 100 kph in 4,9 seconds) and on to an electronically governed top speed of 155 mph (250 kph). With 780 Nm of available torque at 1.500 rpm delivery of power is immediate and extremely sure for a vehicle with unladen weight of 2.435 kg (EU).
Power is transmitted through an eight speed, shift by wire, automatic ZF gearbox. The new powertrain delivers this performance while emitting 317 g/ km CO2. Quoted  fuel consumption is announced for 20,8 mpg or 13,6 l/100 km.
The Rolls Royce rides on abed of air. Double wishbone front suspension and multi-link rear suspension work with an intelligent, four-cornered, air-suspension system and electronic variable damping.
For ease of manoeuvring, cameras located around the car serve a number of purposes. Rear, front side and top view cameras can combine to give fish-eye view at blind junctions or provide ground images with obstacle recognition and reverse path prediction when parking. Positioned discreetly within the grille is a Night Vision camera. When activated, this safety feature works with Pedestrian Recognition to detect objects up to 300 metres away and display them in a central screen in the dash. The Head-up Display, on the other hand, relays crucial information such as speed  or navigation directions onto the windscreen directly in front of the driver.

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10 - Bentley Mulsanne

“The new Bentley Mulsanne  is a thoroughly modern flagship that captures the essence of the Bentley marque. It is elegant yet distinctly sporting in character, delivering effortless performance while its sumptuous cabin, advanced technology sits discreetly with handcrafted luxury.” That is the definition given by Bentley Motor Chairman and Chief Executive, Dr. Franz-Josef Paefgen at the introduction of the new Mulsanne. The new Mulsanne is equipped with a totally revised version of the 6.750 cc V8  twin turbocharged engine now developing 505 bhp/377 kW while the 1.020 Nm/752 lb.ft. torque is now delivered even earlier at 1.800 rpm for brisk accelerations. This is complemented by the new eight-speed automatic transmission.
“Over 170 hours – almost half the entire build process – goes into crafting the interior of the new Mulsanne. At Crewe, Bentley’s way of working is the opposite of mass production – we start where the others stop.” Declares Robin Page, Head of Interior Design.

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11 - Porsche 911 GT3 RS and Porsche 911 Turbo

Presented aside the new 500 hp 3,8 litre new Porsche 911 Turbo, the new Porsche 911 GT3 RS is the last and highest stage of development of the Porsche 911 for road use before moving on to genuine racing cars for circuit events. Offering even more power (540 hp/331 kW), lower weight (1.370 kg/3.021 lbs), shorter transmission ratios (six-speed manual gearbox) as well as body and suspension elements upgraded to an even higher standard, the new 911 GT3 RS has been developed as the homologation model for the racing version of the 911 GT3. Standing start 0 to 100 kph/62 mph is claimed in 4,0 seconds while top speed is announced for 310 kph/ 193 mph. Fuel consumption in the NEDC driving cycle is quoted for 13,2 l/100 km (21,4 mpg). Despite its even wider body, the new Porsche 911 Gt3 RS is 25 kg/55 lb lighter than the GT3 and maximum power is 15 hp higher. Starting in 2010, Porsche will furthermore be introducing yet another new option, a lithium-ion battery coming together with the car specifically for use on the race track. Subsequently fitted instead of the conventional lead battery, this reduces the overall weight of the car by more than 10 kg or 22 lb.

Porsche 911 GT3 RS	Porsche 911 Turbo
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12 - Citroën Revolte Concept

The Citroen REVOLTE Concept is an extravagant ultra-chic city car proposition with luxury, glamour and technology as well as a body finish in radiant shade of violet. The Citroen REVOLTE Concept comes with a rechargeable hybrid drive train but no specific details have been disclosed. The REVOLTE presents a three seats cabin design conceived to resemble a lounge with seats similar to those found in home furnishing. The passenger area includes a meridian sofa of contemporary design whose flowing lines cover the entire rear area as well as the space usually reserved for the front passenger. The passenger sitting in this last space can stretch out his or her legs and enjoy the sensations offered by the cosy, luxurious ambience. It is also possible to install a rearward-facing childseat. The rear bench also houses the concept car’s batteries, providing good weight distribution. The bonnet of the car is covered with photovoltaic cells carrying out the electric functions linked to onboard comfort including when the vehicle is stationary. With its strongly marked wheelarches, curved bonnet, and sculpted sides matching the line of the open soft top roof, this luxury project reminds the basic style of the 50 years old 2 CV.

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13 Lexus LF-CH Concept

This Lexus LF-Ch full hybrid Concept comes with a message. Lexus intends to enter the premium compact segment of the market where Audi, BMW or Volkswagen, to name a few, are quite successful. With a new, more aggressive Lexus grille design over a deep, full-width bumper and air dam, the front end of the LF-Ch expresses precision and power. Sharply sculpted front wings overlap the bumper to create deep, front brake cooling air intakes, while reinforcing a purposeful, wide track stance hinting at agility and high speed stability. There are no details unveiled of the specific full hybrid system of this 5 door sedan project. Length 4.300 mm, width 1.790 mm, height 1.400 mm and wheelbase 2.600 mm. The style is harmonious, let us wait for the production model.

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14 - Peugeot BB1 Concept

Peugeot unveiled an original Urban Electric Concept car using Michelin Active Wheels and a frame designed by Peugeot motorcycle. With only 600 kg dry weight including 100 kg battery, this vehicule can carry four people through town.

See Car Reviews – Peugeot BB1 Concept for further details and illustrations.

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15 - Tesla Model S

The TESLA MODEL S is expected to enter production in late 2011. This all electric sedan has a floor mounted battery pack that is designed to be changed in a few minutes at future battery pack swap stations.. The expected price is about 49.000 US$.
Tesla was granted a 468 million US$ loan by American Administration for the development of this vehicle.

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16 - Hyundai Blue-Will concept

Hyundai Blue-Will is a concept car illustrating the plug in hybrid technology of the Korean auto manufacturer. Promising an electric-only driving distance of up to 64 km on a single charge and a fuel economy rating of up to 2,2 litres/100 km (106 mpg), the Blue-Will is a test bed of new ideas that range from the unique profile to drive-by-wire steering and touch screen controls. For maximum luggage space, the fuel tank is under the rear seat where it is neatly bundled alongside the Lithium-ion-Polymer battery which can be recharged using a household current.
The Blue-Will concept is powered by an all-aluminium 152 hp Gasoline Direct Injected 1,6 L. which is coupled to a continuously variable transmission and a 100 kW electric motor which is the heart of Hyundai’s proprietary parallel hybrid drive architecture. The wheels are propelled by power coming directly from the gasoline engine, or the electric motor, or both together, as conditions demand.
The Blue-Will is equipped with thermal generator into the exhaust manifold where energy from the exhaust gases is recaptured and converted into electrical energy.
Dimensions are 4.300 mm long, 1.800 mm wide, 1.460 mm high and wheelbase of 2.700 mm.

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17 - Artega GT

Artega GT was started was originally a demonstrator of the technical capability of German equipments company paragon AG.. At the end of 2006 paragon AG transferred the project to the newly founded company Artega Automobil Gmbh which has since been working to develop the model to a series production car. The Artega GT is intended to fill the gap between mass production cars and super sports cars. The car manufacturing plant started operations in November 2008. A maximum capacity of 500 units per year is expected to be achieved in 2010. Lightweight is a key factor and a combination of materials is employed like aluminium, high strength steel and carbon fibre reinforced composites. The 1.116 kg GT car is equipped with a 3.597 cc V6 direct injection rear-mounted with six-speed transmission. Maximum speed is announced for over 270 kph/ 168 mph and standing start 0 to 100 kph/62 mph takes 4,8 seconds. The base price is around EURO 80.000. Sales have started in several European countries and is expected to expand to the USA and Asia.

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18 - Audi R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro

Audi R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro is featuring the Audi Space Frame, Quattro permanent all-wheel drive, full LED headlights. It is powered by a V10 engine producing 525 hp/386 kW at 8.000 rpm and a maximum torque of 530Nm/ 390,91 lb ft at 6.500 rpm.. Standing start from 0 to 100 kph (62,14 mph) takes 4,1 seconds and the claimed top speed is 313 kph/194,49 mph. This new top of the range Audi has side panels and the large cover over the storage compartment for the cloth top made of carbon fiber composite. Two arched cowls, which extend to the spoiler lip and include large, integrated air vents, give the rear of the open top two seater a powerful profile. Sales are expected to start a few days after Frankfurt Show and base price is announced for 156.400 Euros.

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19 - Maserati GranCabrio

Maserati GranCabrio is the first four-seater convertible in the history of Maserati. The GranCabrio completes the Maserati’s product line-up that now consists of three different families of product: sedan Quattroporte, coupe GranTurismo and convertible GranCabrio. The open-top Maserati GranCabrio is a Pininfarina design with spacious interior. It is powered by a 4,7 litre V8 engine paired with the fluid 6-speed automatic transmission. The body of the Maserati GranCabrio has been thoroughly overhauled. Despite the lack of an overhead frame and an important wheelbase (2.942 mm) it is specially designed for structural rigidity. The newly designed bearing monocoque has been made using materials and technologies designed especially to optimize weight: the bonnet and cross beams are made from aluminium, while the boot is made from SMC (Sheet Moulding Compound). The Maserati GranCabrio will be marketed this coming winter.

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20 - Mini - Coupé and Cabriolet Concept cars

For the 50th year of the Mini, two concept car were proposed at Frankfurt. A 2 seats Coupé and its equivalent in convertible. It is most likely that both models will be offered as extension of the Mini range. Through its lower and even more streamlined windscreen, the MINI Coupé Concept shows a striking character and unique look. This unique two-seaters measures 3.714 mm (146,2 in.) in legth and 1.683 mm (66,3 in.) in width. The height of the car is 1.356 mm (53,4 in.). This study is conceived from the start for the most powerful engine currently available in a MINI: Featuring the 1,6 litre twin-scroll turbocharged engine carried over from the MINI John Cooper Works, delivering a maximum output of 155 kW/211 hp and peak torque of 260 Nm (192 lb ft) increasing briefly under Overboost to an even more significant 280 Nm (206 lb.ft.).The Convertible Concept shares the size of the Coupé. A roolbar instantaneously moving up whenever required and featured for the first time on the MINI Convertible is an important highlight of the safety concept ensured from the start in developing this unique car. The MINI Coupé Concept and the MINI Roadster Concept are based on a platform specially conceived for integrated production at MINI Plant Oxford. There are no official announcement of future production plan for these concepts but public acceptation at the show may tend to invite this initiative.

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21 - Fisker Karma

Fisker Karma is a luxury high performance sedan with electric propulsion assisted by gasoline engine range extender. The Fisker Karma was designed in California with Q Drive propulsion system developed with Quantum Technologies, aluminium frame design by Norsk Hydro and manufacturing by Valmet. More than 1.500 firm orders have been registered and delivery will start by Summer 2010.

see  – Fisker Karma Hybrid 2009 - for further details and illustrations.

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22 - Hyundai i Metro Concept

Hyundai i Metro Concept car with hybrid propulsion is a small SUV project equivalent to the Nissan Qazana Concept introduced at the Geneva Motor Show. The propulsion is based on a 1 litre three cylinder gasoline engine with continuously variable valve timing, turbocharging and direct injection, combined with a 5 kW starter motor-alternator with power stored in an ultracapacitor and a 12 Volt battery. The hybrid system delivers 16.0 kgm of peak torque at 1.750 – 4.500 rpm. Through a six-speed dual clutch transmission. The 2+2 seating iMetro has a length of 3.925 mm, a width of 1.760 mm and height of 1.576 mm. The announced fuel consumption is 3,3 l/100 km and CO2 emission of 80 g/km. Total weight is 950 kg.

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23 - Mercedes-Benz Concept BlueZERO E-CELL  PLUS

The near-series Mercedes-Benz Concept BlueZERO E-CELL  PLUS plug in hybrid electric car combines environment-friendly electric mobility in the city with unrestricted suitability for long distance driving. This is made possible by the combination of the battery electric drive of the BlueZERO E-CELL battery electric model with a combustion engine operating a generator. This range extender gives the BlueZERO E-CELL PLUS a total range of up to 600 kilometres, with 100 kilometres thereof solely under electric power and thus free of local emissions. The compact three cylinder turbocharged gasoline engine is installed in the area of the rear axle and can charge the batteries while the car is being driven.

See Car Reviews - MERCEDES BENZ BlueZERO E-CELL & F-CELL & E-CELL PLUS near serie Concepts 2009 for further details and illustrations.

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24 - Mazda MX5 Concept

Mazda celebrates the heritage of the 20 years of the MX-5 roadster with a radical and sporty show car, the MX5 Superlight version. The design style goes back to basics and is radical, retro and futuristic. There is not even a windshield, an MX5 just for the show.

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25 - Kia Forte LPI Hybrid - Cee’d Gasoline/Electric hybrid concept and Sorento Diesel/Electric hybrid concept

The Kia  Forte LPI hybrid was launched on the South Korean and Chinese markets during Summer 2009. Propulsion is made by a 1,6 litre engine operating on liquefied petroleum gad (LPG) together with a continuously variable transmission and a 15 kW and 105 Nm electric motor powered by a Lithium-ion polymer battery.
In 2010 36 Kia 1,6 LPI Hybrid will enter fleet tests in order to evaluate the potential feasibility of an introduction on other markets.
Kia was also presenting at Frankfurt two hybrid concept vehicles, the Kia cee’d hybrid with gasoline engine and the Sorento Hybrid Concept with a twin turbo Diesel engine, both combined with electric motors operated with lithium-ion polymer batteries.

Kia Forte LPI Hybrid	Kia Forte LPI Hybrid

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26 - Volkswagen E Up! concept

Volkswagen will launch a zero emission Up! on the market in 2013. The zero emissions concept car is based on modules of the New Small Family anticipated the year 2011. The 135 kph fast 3+1 seater is driven by an electric motor with a peak power output of 60 kW (continuous power of 40 kW). The motor of the front-wheel drive car, which is mounted in front, develops a maximum torque of 210 Nm right from rest. The E-Up! 0 to 100 kph sprint time is announced for 11,3 seconds with even greater responsiveness in the intermediate sprint from 0 to 50 kph in 3,5 seconds. This dynamic performance is based first on the electric motor's excellent torque characteristic and second on the low dry weight of the E-Up! which is just 1.085 kg. This low weight is quite astounding considering that 240 kg are taken by the lithium-ion battery.

See Volkswagen E Up! Concept 2009 for further details and illustrations

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27 - Trabant nT Concept

The Trabant nT project is the result of the partnership of several companies of Eastern Germany under the guidance of toymaker Herpa. It is intended to revive a symbol of the Eastern Germany automobile history, the Trabant. From the original it just take the shape and the name. The Trabant nT project is no basic car but a vehicle with plenty of functionalities like air conditioning supported by the solar panel covered roof, a navigation system or MP3 player plugging system. The Trabant nT project is an electric car; rated at 47 kW, an asynchronous electric motor, in combination with a lithium-ion battery in the vehicle’s transmission tunnel, has more than enough power to drive the front axle. Proposed operating range with one full charge is 160 km. Maximum speed is announced at 130 kph for this sedan with seating for 4+1 (one child seat). Dimensions are 3.950 mm long, 1.650 mm wide and 1.500 mm high while dry weight is 1.050 kg.
The project is ready and await investors to enter production.

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27 - Wiesmann Roadster MF5

After preparing some prototypes at their spare time, the Wiesmann brothers have been building exclusive handcrafted sports cars with nostalgic styling at their factory in Dülmen, Germany since 1993.  Their passion for individual sports cars and their vision of a factory that builds cars for individualists is what makes this company and its sports cars so special. Engines and gearboxes are BMW-made and brakes are either BMW or Brembo, and those are are the only externally manufactured parts. For the cockpit, the customers can select one of over 400 types of leather for the upholstery.
The limited edition of the Wiesmann Roadster MF5 was introduced at Frankfurt and will be reserved for 55 customers; With a base price of EUR 189.500, it comes with a V10 4.999 cc engine producing 507 hp/373 kW at 7.750 rpm and allows a standing start of 0 to 100 kph (62 mph) in 3,9 seconds and a maximum speed of 310 kph/ 193 mph.  The chassis are made of aluminium glued and riveted while the body are glass fibre composite with electrically operated rear spoiler. The dry weight is 1.395 kg.

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