Styled by IDEA, Italy, the styling is butch and modern

Tata Motors have launched the new Aria 4X4 Crossover in the Indian market at a ceremony held in Mumbai today.

Aria is the first indigenous made 4X4 Crossover that according to Tata is a sedan and SUV blended in one car – with sedan like finesse, handling and ride quality and SUV like performance, offroading capability and stance. The new Crossover delivers a lot of firsts for a Tata vehicle and is loaded with all the conceivable features that you normally associate with the Germans, no we aren’t kidding, sample this, when was the last time you heard Tata and the following features in the same breath – Selectable 4X4 with Torque-On-Demand system, three row theater style flexible seating, 6 Air Bags (Yes SIX, front drive and passenger + Curtain), ESP (Electronic Stability Program), TCS (Traction Control System), In-Dash GPS Navigation system, Rain sensing automatic wipers, darkness sensing automatic headlamps, steering mounted music and phone controls, Cruise Control, ABS (Anti Lock Braking System) + EBD (Electronic Brake Distribution), Front and rear disc brakes, Leather upholstery and last but not the least Electrically adjustable and retractable outside rear view mirrors! Phew!

The Aria is powered by the heavily revised version of the 2.2 DICOR engine with 140 ps of maximum power and 320 nm of maximum torque and comes with dual mass flywheel for added refinement. The engine itself is a pretty advanced unit featuring 32 bit ECU, 4 valves per cylinder, variable geometry turbocharger and dual overhead camshaft! The engine is mated to a new Mark II gearbox which offers perfectly matched gear ratios for optimum performance under all conditions and precise gearshift action. The selectable torque on demand Adapterra 4×4 system delivers torque to the wheel that needs it the most and also aids high speed handling. The system can also be switched off via a switch on the dashboard in which case it operates as a 4X2 and helps fuel efficiency since the engine doesn’t needs to work as hard.

The suspension is high tech too with the front having an Independent Double Wishbone With Coil Spring and the rear featuring an advanced 5-link setup.

The Aria has will come in 3 trim levels, all with selectable Adapterra 4×4 - Pleasure 4X4, Prestige 4X4 and Pride 4X4, the details of which we already provided you in our earlier post which you can read by clicking here and eight color options – Castelle Gray, Arctic Silver, Walnut Gold, Sardinia Red, Quartz Black, Pearl White, Surf Blue and Night Shade Black.

Price start from Rs 12.91 Lakhs Ex-Showroom, New Delhi for the base Aria Pleasure 4X4 going all the way upto Rs 15.5 Lakhs for the top end Aria Pride 4X4 with leather upholstery.

City wise pricing details, image gallery and press release after the jump.

Image Gallery: 2010 Tata Aria 4X4 Crossover

Variant Delhi Bengaluru Chennai Kolkata Mumbai Aria Pride      (Leather upholstery) 15.50 15.58 15.45 15.52 15.85 Aria Prestige (Leather upholstery) 14.50 14.57 14.45 14.52 14.82 Aria Prestige (Fabric upholstery) 14.13 14.19 14.08 14.15 14.44 Aria Pleasure (Fabric upholstery) 12.91 12.96 12.86 12.93 13.18

Press Release

Tata Aria, the first Indian four-wheel drive Crossover, hits the road

• A sedan & and an SUV blended in one car — with sedan like finesse, handling and ride quality and SUV like performance, offroading capability and stance
• 2.2 L diesel commonrail powerplant delivering 140 PS power and 320 Nm torque
• Luxurious premium leather upholstery & three-row theatre-style flexible seating
• Selectable 4×4 with Torque-on-Demand System
• Electronic Stability Programme with Traction Control System to maintain stability
• 6 airbags to protect occupants from every side
• In-dash GPS-based Navigation provides destination guidance
• Automatic darkness sensing lights & rain sensing wipers
• Steering mounted phone and music controls
• Cruise Control
• Automatic climate control
• ABS & EBD to aid steerability and control in emergency braking
• Electrically adjustable and retractable ORVMs
• Available in 3 trim levels – all 4×4 – Pride, Prestige, Pleasure

Mumbai, October 11, 2010: Tata Motors today launched the Tata Aria, the first Indian four-wheel drive crossover, a luxurious creation with the finesse of a sedan and the muscle of an SUV all blended in one car.

The Tata Aria redefines several benchmarks with its design and technologies, offering class leading features that take comfort and safety to a new height. The selectable 4×4 is equipped with aTorque-on-Demand System which significantly enhances all-terrain capabilities. It is the first in its segment with an In-dash GPS-based Navigation System. It is also among those rare cars in India to offer advanced safety features like the Electronic Stability Programme (ESP), which ensures the car’s stability, and six airbags to ensure safety in exigencies.

Finesse of a sedan in the Tata Aria

The Aria’s styling is a blend of bold proportions, uncluttered lines and uncompromising aesthetics. The aggressive, well planted stance is tempered by a lunging silhouette and a dynamic roofline. Wraparound dual barreled headlamps complement the signature Tata grille. Chrome detailing on the sides accentuates its premium class. The interiors reflect the same richness and elegance in design, layout, and visual appeal. Premium leather upholstery enhances richly textured trims in single or dual tone themes. Air-conditioning louvres on pillars and a sweeping row of roof utility spaces add to the distinctive appeal.

Passengers can simply walk into the Aria, rather than having to climb up or get down into the cabin. The three-row theatre style flexible seating ensures ample space. Like the driver’s and the front passenger seat, the second row seats can also be slid fore and aft to increase legroom. Both the second row and third row seats can be fully collapsed to make the car even roomier for accessories and luggage for that weekend sojourn.

The height-adjustable driver’s seat and the tilt adjustable steering help configure the most comfortable driving position. The glasshouse offers commanding visibility, aided by electrically adjustable ORVMs. There is no need to look back even to park – a Reverse Guide Camera helps you with exactitude. As you drive out, the In-dash Navigation System guides you to your destination, the Driver Information System continuously indicates essential drive data, the Cruise Control allows you to set speed, and the Automatic Climate Control, through roof-mounted AC vents, keeps the cabin temperature ambient. The 2-DIN music system and Bluetooth, along with steering mounted phone and music controls, helps switch between music and conversation at the touch of a button. Other features do not even require raising a finger – Darkness Sensing Lights will come on automatically, as will Rain Sensing Wipers. Roof utility bins, a glove-box chiller and conveniently placed cup holders helps keep every thing you want within easy reach.

Muscle of an SUV in the Tata Aria

The Aria’s stylish design is inlaid with the DNA of an SUV, manifested in its stance, power, driveability and safety.

Its 2.2 litre Direct Injection Common Rail (DICOR) engine, with variable turbine technology and 32-bit ECU delivers 140 PS power and 320 Nm torque. It is equipped with a dual mass flywheel which isolates torsional vibrations from the powertrain, thus providing a NVH free environment in the cabin. The new Mark II gearbox is perfectly mated to the engine ensuring smooth power delivery and precise shifting.

The suspension is designed to achieve an optimal balance between ride comfort and control and stability, both on normal roads and in offroading. Its low-roll characteristics and higher soaking capacity further ensure a sedan-like ride quality and SUV-like offroading capability.

The 4×4 Adapterra Torque-on-Demand System on its own senses terrain conditions and automatically supplies torque in varying proportions between the front and rear axles, depending on the terrain. It helps off-road driving as well as stability on normal roads.

The Aria boasts of best in class safety features, making it one of the safest cars on Indian roads.

The Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) senses any mismatch between the driver’s intended direction and the actual direction of the car, and automatically intervenes to apply braking force to the appropriate wheel and stabilises the car. Along with ESP, the Traction Control System (TCS) maintains stability under situations of sudden acceleration.

The Aria is equipped with disc brakes on all four wheels resulting in superior braking effectiveness and better control. The Antilock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Breakforce Distribution (EBD) aids steerability and control in emergency braking situations and on slippery surfaces.

The Aria’s frame is constructed with advanced hydroformed members. Hydroforming enhances their rigidity while reducing weight. Besides, the body shell has crumple zones and the doors have side impact bars. Six airbags (driver, front passenger, side and curtain airbags) protect occupants from every side. Besides India, the Aria satisfies all current crash safety norms in European markets.

The Tata Aria variants

The Tata Aria is being launched in three trim levels, all with 4×4 – the Aria Pride at the top end, the Aria Prestige and the Aria Pleasure, each in eight colour options. While the Aria Pride is fully loaded, features will vary in the Aria Prestige and the Aria Pleasure (details in www.tataaria.com). The Tata Aria is being made available, to begin with, in 25 cities through 69 dealerships.

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In another first for our readers, we have all the details of the soon to be launched Tata Aria, the most ambitious and advanced product from the house of Tatas, a full two days before the scheduled launch.

The Aria crossover, which Tata says has the finesse if a sedan with the muscle of an SUV, is a grounds breaking product from Tata which is culmination of years of hard work and comes with cutting edge automobile technologies, most of which are a first for the company. Aria is the first vehicles from Tata to feature integrated GPS navigation system, ESP (Electronic Stability Program), Side and Curtain Airbags (apart from driver and passenger air bags), TCS (Traction Control System), all wheel disc brakes and even a cruise control system!

The Aria will come in three variants – the base Pleasure 4X4, the mid level Prestige 4X4 and the top end Pride 4X4. Even though Prestige is the base model, there is nothing low key about it and comes loaded with more features than even the top end Toyota Innova V! All variants comes with torque sensing four wheel drive system while the top end Pride has all the gadgets and gizmo’s that you can ever imagine and more.

The Aria is powered by a 2.2 liter DICOR engine having variable turbine technology, 16 valves, twin overhead camshafts with 32 bit ECU generating 140 ps of maximum power  and 320 nm of maximum torque mated to a heavily modified 5-speed transmission. The engine also comes with dual mass flywheel to make it even more refined and vibration free.

Tata Aria will be available with 8 color options – Castelle Gray, Arctic Silver, Walnut Gold, Sardinia Red, Quartz Black, Pearl White, Surf Blue and Night Shade Black.

You can also visit the Tata Aria teaser website and take part in the online contest. You may end up driving the Aria to any of your favorite holiday destination in India.

Variant wise details and detailed technical specifications after the jump.

Variant: Tata Aria Pleasure 4X4

Safety and Security:

• Air Bags Driver and Passenger
• Anti Lock Braking System with Electronic Brake Force Distribution
• Hydroform Chassis frame and Reinforced body construction
• Engine Immobilizer with Perimetric Alarm System
• All wheel disc brakes

Comfort and Convenience

• Dual Din music system with CD/MP3 player and 6 Speakers
• Audio Switches On the Steering Wheel
• USB and Aux In On Central Console
• Driver Information System
• Ultrasonic Reverse Guide System
• Dual A/C
• Height Adjustable Driver Seat
• Rear wash wipe and demister
• Keyless entry with remote integrated key

Function

• Flat Floor fold 2nd & 3rd row seats with Sliding 2nd row
• Roof Storage Bins & Goggle Cases
• Follow me home headlights
• Electrically Adjustable Outer Mirrors

Interiors

• Black and Beige Interiors with Wood inserts
• Beige Fabric Upholstery
• Chrome inside door handles

Exteriors

• 16″ Steel Wheels
• Dual barrel headlamps with projector beam
• Fog Lights Front And Rear
• Chrome Surround Grill
• Body Colored Rub Rails
• Chrome waistline on windows

Variant: Tata Aria Prestige 4×4 – all the features of the Pleasure 4X4 and the following extras

Comfort and Convenience

• Tata Blue Connect (Capable of pairing 5 phones)
• Dual A/C With Automatic Climate Control

Functional

• Electrically Adjustable & Retractable Outside Rear View Mirrors
• Rain Sensing Wipers
• Darkness Sensing Automatic Headlights
• Glove Box Chiller

Interiors

• Three Interior Options – Black & Plum With Brush Metal Inserts
• Black and Black With Brush Metal Inserts
• Black and Beige With Wood Inserts
• Full Leather Upholstery in Black & plum and Black & Black Interiors
• Fabric Upholstery with Black & Beige Interiors

Exteriors

• 17″ Alloy Wheels
• Full Chrome Grill
• Body Colored Rub Rails With Chrome Insert

Variant: Tata Aria Pure 4×4 – all the features of the Prestige 4X4 and the following extras

Safety and Security

• Side and Curtain Air Bags (6 Air Bags)
• Electronic Stability Program
• Traction Control System

Comfort and Convenience

• Satellite Navigation System
• Reverse Guide Camera
• Cruise Control

Interiors (All Leather)

• Black & Plum with Brush Metal Inserts
• Black & Black with Brush Metal Inserts
• Full Leather Upholstery

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Engine

• Type: 2.2L DICOR, BS IV Compliant with Dual Mass Flywheel
• Displacement: 2179 cc
• Max Output: 140 ps @ 4000 rpm
• Max Torque: 320 nm @ 1700-2700 rpm

Dimensions & Weight

• Overall Length: 4780mm
• Overall Width: 1895mm
• Overall Height: 1780mm
• Wheelbase: 2850mm
• Ground Clearance: 200mm
• Gross Vehicle Weight: 2720 Kg
• Seating Capacity: 7
• Turning Radius: 5.6 m

Drive

• Drive System: Torque Sensing 4 Wheel Drive System

Suspension

• Front: Independent Double Wishbone With Coil Spring
• Rear: 5 Link suspension with Coil Spring

Transmission

• Type: G-76/4.1 Syncromesh with Overdrive, Torque On Demand 4X4

Steering

• Type: Rack and Pinion with Power assistance

Brakes

• Front: Ventilated Disc Brakes With twin pot caliper
• Rear: Disc Brakes

Tyres

• 235/65 R17, R16

Fuel Tank Capacity

• 60 Litres

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Subaru has unveiled third generation of its horizontally opposed 2.0 liter Boxer engine which not only makes more torque but is more fuel efficient as well.

The biggest change to the engine is the Bore X Stroke dimension which is 84 X 90 mm compared to 92 X 75 mm for the earlier engine making it long stroke or undersquare and hence enhancing torque. The new engine still delivers 146 bhp but delivers more torque 196 nm compared to 191 nm from the earlier engine. Its also 10% more fuel efficient mostly owing to its undersquare configuration.

The new engine will be fitted to all the new generation Subaru models making its debut on the Forester.

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• November 10, 2010 -- Last Murcielago Rolls Off The Production Line
• October 15, 2010 -- Hyundai Launches Santa Fe SUV In India- Overpriced Old Hat!
• March 16, 2010 -- Bajaj Pulsar 250 Parallel Twin Liquid Cooled In Final Stages Of Development?
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Music knows no boundaries, religion, cast and creed. Many of us have been on a constant quest to improve our car stereo, because that is where we spend the most amount of time apart from our home offcourse.

To make your task slightly easier ( I say slightly because musical tastes and how good it sounds remain extremely subjective), Matt Kirsch an Audio engineer with General Motors has made his preferred playlist to test car audio set ups public.

So if you think your car stereo sounds good, play the songs after the jump and judge for yourselves.

Source: USA Today Via Autoblog

Top 10 songs to test your car stereo by Marr Kirsch

1. “Don’t Know Why” by Norah Jones. Listen for Norah’s voice to sound natural, and centered in front of you.
2. “Diamonds and Rust” by Joan Baez. Listen for strong vocals, and for the instruments to be set across a wide sound stage.
3. “No One” by Alicia Keys. Listen for clarity in Alicia’s vocals and spacious background sound.
4. “Hotel California” by the Eagles. Listen for the clarity and dynamic range during the opening guitar solo, and of course the powerful drum beat.
5. “Boom Boom Pow“by the Black Eyed Peas. Listen for powerful, accurate bass beats, even at full volume.
6. “Rock that Body“by the Black Eyed Peas. Listen clear, intelligible lyrics over the powerful, persistent bass beat.
7. “Hide and Seek“by Imogen Heap. Listen for the enveloping ambience of the song, building on the openness and dynamic vocals.
8. “He Mele No Lilo” by Mark Keali’i Ho’omalu from Lilo and Stitch.Listen for the ambience and staging as the children’s chorus is offset by powerful bass.
9. “Bird on a Wire” by Johnny Cash. Listen for the clarity in Johnny’s distinctive voice, and his guitar to sound natural and free of any coloration.
10. “Packt Like Sardines in a Crushd Tin Box” by Radiohead. Listen for the punch from the percussive bass, and the ring of the steel drums.

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Aston Martin have announced the engine details for its One-77 supercar in a technical showcase released before its debut at the Paris Motor Show.

The 7.3 liter V12 engine under the hood of Aston’s most powerful and most expensive supercar has been rated at 750 bhp and 750 nm of maximum torque making it the most powerful naturally aspirated road car engine. The power and torque figures have also beaten the previous estimates which hinted 650 bhp of maximum power. The company claims a 0-60 mph times of just 3.5 seconds and a top speed well in excess of 200 mph.

More details after the jump.

Aston Martin One-77, which the company calls its “ultimate expression” comes with a carbon fiber monocoque chassis, inboard front and rear suspension with Dynamic Suspension spool valve, specially developed Pirelli P Zero Corsa tyres (255/35 ZR20 front, 335/30 ZR20 rear) developed specially for the car and  Carbon Ceramic Matrix brake technology.

Production of the million pound car is limited to just 77 with deliveries commencing from early 2011.

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S-t-u-n-n-i-n-g Side Profile

Mercedes Benz have officially unveiled the 2012 CLS ahead of its public debut at the upcoming Paris Motor Show in September. The new CLS brochure images had already leaked on to the internet a few days back but in then new high resolution it looks even more impressive.The next generation of the four door coupe from Stuttgart hopes to build upon the success of the original CLS which was launched in 2004 and went ahead to sell 1,70,000 units worldwide.

The striking front

The original CLS was the harbinger of the four door coupe trend worldwide and almost every manufacturer these days has one in the lineup and one’s who don’t, have already given a go ahead including BMW which is reportedly working on the Gran Coupe Concept. The new CLS retains the proportions of the original with long hood, tight frame less side windows and a dynamic roof sweeping back at the angle towards rear. It manages to look even striking which is impressive given that the now old CLS still looks as exciting and as sexy as ever and hence is a very hard act to follow.

The striking front end is dominated by sharply styled headlights which are full LED and boasts a world’s first, dynamic lightening with full LED technology. The headlight contains a total of 71 LED’s in each unit and are divided into three arrow shaped layers from top to bottom with each layer performing one individual function while at the same time creating an unmistakable beam pattern at night.

The impressively styled CLS is modeled on the shooting brake concept with dynamic, athletic  from enhanced by interplay of lines and surfaces. A unique dropping line beginning from the front wheel wells sloping downwards at the rear represents a new interpretation of hallmark Mercedes sports car. The sports car like shoulder line above the rear axle highlights the athletic character while the nicely flared wheel arches further accentuate the already power and confident stance.

The interiors are even more luxurious and the cockpit like dashboard design envelopes the driver making him a part of the whole package. Further, the insides feature innovative use of satin and high gloss metal finishes for metal surfaces and a central display which is integrated neatly into the upper part of the instrument panel. The seats are covered with 1.6 mm thick leather which meets the highest standards of look and feel while their natural pore structure imparts a warm and soft feel. The individual parts of the leather dashboard are sewn together by hand for even high quality fit. The leather used is also preshrunk by heat so that it retains it shape even after exposure to strong sunlight.

While there is still no official word on the engine options, the new CLS is certain to come with the all new 3.5 liter direct injected petrol engine in the base CLS 350 while the CLS 550 will get the 4.6 liter V8 that develops a healthy 430 bhp. There will also be an AMG version which is certain to come with the 5.5 liter Twin Turbo V8 with a colossal 544 bhp  and 800 nm of maximum torque.

Official image gallery and press release after the jump.

Image Gallery: 2012 Mercedes Benz CLS Coupe

Press Release

The new CLS – the new design icon from Mercedes-Benz

A generation ahead: The CLS-Class created a new vehicle category in 2003 by combining the elegance and expressiveness of a coupé with the comfort and functionality of a sedan. The CLS delighted the public, astounded the competi-tion and created a new style icon: for years the CLS has endured as the only four-door coupé in its class, and since October 2004 it has been the car of choice for approximately 170,000 buyers worldwide. “Customers all over the world benefited from our bold move to launch a completely new vehicle con-cept onto the market”, explains a delighted Dr. Joachim Schmidt, member of the board of Mercedes-Benz Cars, Sales & Marketing. “And with its exciting de-sign, the new edition of the CLS also benefits from the fact that we are a whole generation ahead of the competition with our four-door Coupé.”

Celebrating its world premiere at the Paris motor show (October 2 – 17, 2010), the 2012 CLS-Class will arrive in U.S. dealerships in mid-2011. The 2012 CLS-Class builds on the pioneering role of its predecessor with a fresh new inter-pretation. “The new CLS points the way forward for the future perceptible de-sign idiom of Mercedes-Benz”, explains Professor Gorden Wagener, head of de-sign at Mercedes-Benz. “At the same time it takes its inspiration from the great tradition of stylish, refined sportiness which has always been a feature of Mercedes coupés.”

Exterior: classic Coupé styling with distinctive front

The proportions remain as spectacular as ever: long hood, tightly-styled frame-less side windows and a dynamic roof sweeping back at an angle towards the rear. The four-door Coupé from Mercedes-Benz immediately made its mark in 2003 as a new style icon. Though the proportions are the same, the second generation of this design trendsetter has a completely new look.

What immediately strikes the eye is the innovative front design, which is remi-niscent of the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG. Visually, the radiator grille is not inte-grated into the hood but formed separately. This further highlights the long, sporty hood. The grille is dominated by the large central star, which unites the car with other Mercedes-Benz coupés and also enhances brand identity. The large, elongated dark air inlets with black grilles also add to the vehicle’s ath-letic appearance.

Design brings high-tech features to life

Another distinguishing feature comes in the form of the full LED headlamps, which are the world’s first to offer all of the dynamic light functions using LED technology. This innovation boasts an impressive design – inside they are di-vided into three arrow-shaped layers from top to bottom: the upper layer con-tains an LED indicator, beneath which is a striking LED side light offers LED low beam functions. The side light can also be seen when the high beam is acti-vated, thereby creating a unique night-time design. The lowest level of the headlamp houses the main beam and nightview functions. A total of 71 LED’s provide an unmistakable appearance as well as a significantly enhanced view of the road compared with previous systems.

The typical CLS outline, with its elegantly long proportions, is the dominating attribute of the new model. The effect of the dynamic, athletic form has been enhanced with a new interplay of lines and surfaces. A unique “dropping line”, which begins above the front wheel-wells and slopes downward towards the rear, represents a new interpretation of a renowned design hallmark of his-toric Mercedes sports cars. A distinctive and muscular sports car-like shoulder line above the rear axle highlights the athletic character of the 2012 CLS. The flared wheel arches resemble the powerful stance of a predator waiting to pounce. The side profile is rounded off with wide wrap-around tail lights featuring LED technology — a linking element to the rear of the vehicle. The shape is empha-sized by the broad shoulder line, which is clearly visible from behind and sup-ports the flat roof. A wide metal insert adds a further visual highlight at the rear.

The interior: design brings quality to life

The interior of the 2012 CLS-Class is also distinguished by a timeless design which combines discreet elegance with innovative details and handcrafted per-fection. The eye-catching cockpit features a wrap-around dashboard sweeping from the driver’s door over the instrument panel support and across to the front passenger door. The central display has also been integrated seamlessly into the upper part of the instrument panel.

The CLS also lives up to its role as a design icon thanks to the innovative nature of the materials used, including a mixture of satin and high-gloss finishes used on the metal surfaces. Highlights also include matte galvanized air vents which ideally compliment a high-gloss-trimmed analogue clock.

Handcrafted perfection is reflected in details such as the stitched seat covers and dashboard. The individual parts of the leather dashboard are sewn to-gether by hand in a process which takes several hours, after which they are fit-ted and upholstered with high-quality padding. Prior to this process, the leather is also heated to preshrink it, so that it will retain its shape even after extreme exposure to direct sunlight.

The particularly exclusive 1.6-millimeter thick semi-aniline premium leather meets the highest standards of both look and feel. The natural pore structure remains intact thanks to a light pigmentation, and the leather has an especially warm and soft feel to it. Premium leather requires a very precise manual selection process and therefore a high amount of untreated leather.

The refined interior of the CLS is further reflected in the generous use of high-quality trim elements, located on the instrument panels, center console and door linings. Customers can choose between high-gloss brown burl walnut or high-gloss black ash. The wood has been perfectly fitted around difficult con-tours for a masterful handcrafted finish, and the wood trim has been matched according to grain as part of a sophisticated selection process to create a con-sistent overall impression.

For an even more progressive look, black piano lacquer or carbon fiber trim elements are also available. Handcrafted as well, up to seven layers are applied and polished for the piano lacquer trim until the high-gloss finish is achieved.

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Tech Tour De Force - Honda VFR1200F

Honda Two Wheelers India have launched their most expensive and one of the most technically advanced motorcycle anywhere in world, VFR1200F Sports-Tourer in the Indian market.

The radically styled VFR1200F comes with a transverse mounted 1237CC fuel injected liquid cooled V4 engine delivering 172 bhp of maximum power @ 10,000 rpm and a maximum 13.1 kgm of torque @ 8750 rpm. The engine is just the start as the VFR1200F boasts some of the most cutting edge technologies ever used on a motorcycle. The bike launched in India comes with a DCT or dual clutch transmission, one operating 1st, 3rd and 5th gears, the other operating 2nd, 4th and 6th gears. The transmission operates in one of the three available modes – ‘D’ which is a fuel efficient automatic mode, ‘S’ which is sportier in that it changes gears at higher revs and ‘M’ or the manual which lets the rider change gears whenever he wants using paddle shifters mounted on the handlebars! The gearbox is the first of its type fitted to a large capacity motorcycle. The bike also comes with a slipper clutch that allows downshifts to lower gears from high speed without the transmission jerk or the rear wheel loosing traction.

Other high tech features include standard ABS which works in conjugation with Honda’s CBS or the combined braking system which applies both the front and the rear brakes via a single lever for safe and sure shot stopping.

All that technology in a two wheeler doesnt come cheap. The Honda VFR1200F has been priced at a whopping Rs 17.5 Lakhs, Ex-Showroom, New Delhi. The bike will be sold through Honda’s exclusive ‘Wing World’ showrooms in New Delhi and Mumbai with deliveries starting in late August 2010.

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According to a senior engineering resource, Mercedes Benz is reportedly working on 9 Speed Automatic transmission that will leap frog the ZF 8-speed units being used by Audi and BMW.

Christened the 9G-Tronic, the better spread nine ratios are said to deliver huge improvements in fuel economy and lowered CO2 emissions. The source also mentioned that development of gearbox with more than 9 ratios is unlikely. Mercedes engineers think that nine ratios is the maximum that is technically possible as well as being the most that end consumers will be able to cope with.

Source: autocar.co.uk

The new gearbox will be used on large displacement engines and will most likely debut on the 2012 Mercedes S Class that is currently under development and will further trickle down to higher end E-Class models as well.

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Gran Turismo 5 Release Date Announced Coming on November 2 2010

It always been a case of so near yet so far with the Gran Turismo 5, the uber driving simulator from Sony Polyphony Digital exclusive for the Playstation 3.

After numerous delays and release dates (the last one was march 2010 in Japan) Sony/Polyphony duo have announced that the game will debut on November 2 and will also feature 3D as if to cover up for all the delays all this while.

The game will have over 950 premium  cars to drive and WRC, GT and Nascar racing venues. Dunsfold Park, the Topgear test track will be included too along with the Stig! The exotic racing metal will have latest cars like Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG and the recently released Ferrari 458 Italia and even the electric car Tesla Roadster.

Both external and mechanical damage have been confirmed along with interior damage and night racing for every track in the game. In addition to all this for the first time in the series it would also be possible to overturn the cars.

The game will also support the newly announced move controller (dont ask as how!) which enables motion sensing and gesture based input.

We are big fans of the GT5 and already have the prologue version of the game which is stunning and very real to say the least. Stay tuned for more updates!

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• September 29, 2010 -- Mahindra Mojo 300CC Image Gallery
• October 28, 2010 -- Video: Hot Lap Of The Indian F1 GP Circuit
• October 17, 2010 -- Ford Figo Becomes The 5th Highest Selling Car In India
• September 1, 2010 -- Tata Motors August 2010 Sales Up 32% YOY

Mercedes Benz have officially released the details of its new family of V8 and V6 engines which will debut in the S-Class and the CL-Coupes this fall. The new engines features state-of-the-art powertrain technologies refined by Mercedes over a period of time which include multi-Spark ignition, optimized water pump and demand controlled oil pump, optimized timing chain and innovative camshaft adjustment and third generation direct petrol injection which features diesel like piezo-electric injectors which allow more precise fuel delivery and charge cooling effect resulting in higher compression ratio’s.

The new V8 engine although down on displacement by 15% (4663cc vs 5461cc) but generates more power and torque. The maximum power output now stands at 435 bhp, 12% more than the preceding unit and the maximum torque is now a chest pounding 700 Nm compared to 530 Nm from the earlier engine, an increase of a whopping 32%! The engine uses twin turbochargers, one for each bank of cylinders and as a result high torque is available at relatively low engine speeds. The new engine delivers 600 nm of torque between 1600 and 4750 rpm, an increase of more than 45% at 2000 rpm. The fuel efficiency numbers are equally staggering with the new engine taking just 9.5 litres of fuel every 100 kilometers compared to 12.3 litres for the earlier engine – a reduction of 22%.

The new V6 is naturally aspirated but the modular construction means that turbochargers can be added to it at any point of time in future. The engine features the same piezo-electric direct petrol injection system and has a reduced V-angle  between the cylinder from 90 degrees to 60 degrees, making the engine naturally balanced, enabling the designers to eliminate the friction hogging balancer shaft. The new engine delivers 306 bhp of maximum power, up 34 bhp on the earlier engine while the maximum torque is 370 nm compared to 350 nm from the preceding engine. The fuel efficiency numbers are truly astonishing for this engine with a rated consumption of just 7.6 litre per 100 kilometers, making it more than 24% more economical than the previous engine!

Point to ponder: The new V8 engine with more power and torque ever is still more economical than the earlier V6 engine! Truly mind blowing!

The new engines join the already announced new M157 AMG 5.5 Liter Twin Turbo V8 which features the same core technologies to deliver 571 bhp and

Jump over for one of the longest press releases that we have posted in a while and the image gallery.

Top Tip: Explains everything in great detail.

Image Gallery: 2011 Mercedes Benz New V6 and V8 Engines

Press Release

Engine Production

The cradle of engine design
• A success story from the outset
• State-of-the-art engine technology
• Exemplary approach to environmental protection at the plant

Bad Cannstatt has a long and successful history as the birthplace of Mercedes-Benz engines. For 125 years ago this was where Gottlieb Daimler and Wilhelm Maybach built their “grandfather clock” – the world’s first single-cylinder engine. It was to become a pioneering invention which simultaneously marked the birth of automotive mobility. Today, just a stone’s throw from Daimler’s famous greenhouse – the original scene of these activities – is located the most recent sub-plant of the Untertürkheim plant, the V-engine factory at Bad Cannstatt.

This “factory of the future” was officially opened in 1997. For the first time the all-new engine series for 6 and 8-cylinder engines was produced using the same state-of-the-art production facilities. Even then, the objective was to achieve efficient production using as many common components as possible for the variants of the new engine series. With a high output of unit numbers, this meant reduced costs – which ultimately also benefited the customer. The decision to locate to Bad Cannstatt at the time involved an investment worth approximately 1 billion Deutschmarks, 700 million DM of which were earmarked for plant construction and equipment alone.

In 2004 the original production area of 66,300 square metres was expanded by around 18,000 square metres to 84,200 square metres. With a workforce of around 900 employees, the specialist V-engine production facility is today a key part of the production network. Since its official opening, over four million examples of the V-engine duo have already come off the assembly lines at the Cannstatt plant. And this success story is set to continue with production of the new series. In addition to pure engine assembly, Cannstatt is also responsible for the mechanical processing of key components such as crankcases, crankshafts, con rods and cylinder heads.
Envirtonmental protection as a matter of routine

Even at its official opening the Cannstatt plant was considered proof that efficient production, ecological commonsense and attractive jobs were not necessarily mutually exclusive. Here, minimum energy requirements went hand in hand with the optimum use of all resources. This involved, for example, minimising waste materials and recycling process fluids and chips from mechanical processing. With its closed-loop process recycling systems, Cannstatt is almost completely free of wastewater and waste materials, and the plant falls well within legal limits for clean gas values.

The Bad Cannstatt plant has set new standards with approaches that combine the utilisation of waste heat and heat recovery with an advanced photovoltaic system. The solar panelling – which covers an area of 5,000 square metres and at the time was one of the largest systems found anywhere in the world – generates an annual energy output of 350,000 kWh. This is sufficient to meet the electricity needs of more than 120 homes. The electricity generated is fed directly into the plant grid.

For production of the new series the plant adopted the award-winning principle of minimum quantity lubrication, which involves mixing minimum quantities of lubricant with cold air instead of using conventional cooling lubricant. The new process uses a fraction of the volume of cooling lubricant previously used. Since these substances are manufactured from petroleum and demand both energy and cost intensive preparation, the innovation of minimum quantity lubrication represents an enormous cost advantage and a significant contribution to environmental protection.

In addition, a true eco-paradise has been created on the outskirts of the plant. The “Neckar gravel bed” concept was developed in collaboration with environmental and nature conservation associations. After replicating a Neckar meadow over an area of 4,000 square metres – complete with its own characteristic heat islands and warm microclimate – it has been shown that 40 species of wild bee have now found a new habitat.
The Cannstatt plant in focus:

Total area
Production area
150,000 m²
84,200 m²
Employees
900
Official plant opening
April 1997
Products
V6 and V8 petrol engines

A short history of injection engines

Mercedes-Benz is a pioneer in direct petrol injection

• The legendary 300 SL was the trailblazer
• First petrol engine with piezo-electric direct injection and spray-guided combustion

In 1954 Mercedes-Benz equipped the legendary 300 SL with a four-cylinder engine featuring direct petrol injection as a world first for series production cars. Since then, the company has pioneered direct petrol injection technology for cars with ongoing further development and improvements.

In 1994, the researchers and engineers at Mercedes-Benz entered new technological territory when they began the development of a spray-guided combustion process. In the view of specialists, this offers the greatest potential for mastering two of the major automotive engineering challenges of the future, namely further reductions in fuel consumption and exhaust emissions.

At the end of 2002 Mercedes-Benz presented a new development stage in direct petrol injection with the new 1.8-litre CGI four-cylinder engine. CGI stands for “Stratified Charge Gasoline Injection”.

The second-generation CGI process reached a new level in the CLS 350 CGI introduced in 2006: the four-door coupé featured the world’s first petrol engine with piezo-electric direct injection and spray-guided combustion. This six-cylinder unit achieved a fuel saving of around ten percent versus the V6 petrol engine with port injection.

The present state of the art is now reflected by the new V6 and V8 engines with third-generation direct injection and multi-spark ignition. They combine a high output with excellent economy and environmental compatibility, and offer refinement at the highest level. They set previously unachieved benchmarks in the premium segment for Mercedes-Benz.

Development, trials and test bench technology:

Endurance test for the new V-engines

• 52,000 hours of test bench trials
• Seven million kilometres of test drives
• 2 million core hours of computer calculation per year

Before the new V6 and V8 engines were allowed onto the roads, they had already absolved a series of torturous trials, for example on the engine test benches of the test facility in Untertürkheim. 24 of the very latest engine test benches are installed on each floor of this imposing three-storey building. These 72 test benches are in operation by day and night, otherwise it is impossible to complete the enormous test programme to which Mercedes-Benz engineers subject all engines.

A wide range of road and load situations can be simulated on the test benches, reflecting every conceivable operating profile such as hot and cold starts, stop-and-go and long-distance driving under very varied conditions. All in all, the new V8 engines from Mercedes-Benz and their ancillary units were required to absolve 52,000 test hours, of which 27,000 were endurance runs.

In parallel with this, extensive practical trials were started in all the climatic zones of the world – in the winter cold of the Arctic and the merciless heat of Death Valley (USA), in desert sands and the thin air of Alpine regions or in tropical jungles. The programme also included fast laps on e.g. the high-speed racetracks in Nardo (Italy) and Papenburg, as well as stop-and-go driving in busy inner-city areas. All in all, the different test vehicles with the new V8 engine covered almost seven million kilometres under very varied conditions. Similar figures apply to the V6 engine.

Naturally the development process began well before these practical trials – namely on the computer screens of the development engineers. This is where the fundamental design calculations were made with the help of modern computers. All the mechanical functions were conceived and alternatives compared here, e.g. the oil and coolant circuits, the various options for intake air ducting, the charging strategy, combustion chamber geometry incl. the intake and exhaust duct, as well as the multiple injection system. All were created and calculated on-screen.

1,800 computer cores provided the necessary computing power for this development process. More than two million core hours were needed to calculate and verify all the engine functions and components for the best possible result.

Without the very latest computers, it would not have been possible to explore technical boundaries and use new processes such as multiple injection. This is because the engineers not only used this enormous computing power for design calculations, but also for the simulation and testing of all engine functions.

Finally the engineers used PCs to establish the best possible configurations for all components, so that they met precisely formulated criteria and could be approved for production of the first prototypes. After this exhaustive verification process, the first engines in the new V-engine generation from Mercedes-Benz immediately ran reliably and met all expectations on the test bench.

Mercedes-Benz sets benchmarks

Innovative technology makes V6 and V8 engines economical and fit for the future

• High output and exemplary environmental compatibility
• Third generation direct petrol injection
• Multi-spark ignition
• Optimised water pump and demand-controlled oil pump
• Optimised timing chain and innovative camshaft adjustment

Considerably less fuel consumption despite a much higher output was the result of the development work for the new Mercedes-Benz V-engine generation, which will initially be used as an 8-cylinder in the CL-Class and later the S-Class from autumn 2010. Mercedes-Benz developed the new six and eight-cylinder units because optimised internal combustion engines continue to have specific advantages over other drive systems with respect to operating range and refuelling time and costs, while offering the greatest short-term potential to achieve significant fuel savings in day-to-day operation. An internal combustion engine is also the centrepiece of a hybrid drive system, and of decisive importance for improved efficiency.

The new Mercedes-Benz engine family is uncompromisingly based on modularisation and innovative technologies, and replaces a very successful engine series. It allows the use of a start/stop function, 4MATIC all-wheel drive and combination with a hybrid module.

The V8 is in a new league of its own

While the new V8 is based on its predecessor and has the same distance between the cylinders, it has undergone concerted further development in every respect. For example, it has a 15-percent smaller displacement (4663 cc rather than 5461 cc) but generates 320 kW (435 hp) and therefore around 12 percent more output than the preceding unit (285 kW/388 hp). Whereas the current CL 500 consumes 12.3 litres per 100 kilometres, this figure drops to 9.5 litres with the new engine – a reduction of 22 percent. CO2 emissions have likewise fallen by 22 percent, from 288 g/km to 224 g/km – an outstanding figure for this performance class. At the same time torque has been raised from 530 Nm to 700 Nm – an increase of 32 percent. In terms of specific output, the new V8 with 68.6 kW and 150 Nm per litre achieves first-class values.

In the new V8, Mercedes-Benz engineers primarily achieved a high output for a lower displacement by using two turbochargers — one for each bank of cylinders. The intake air is forced into the eight combustion chambers at an overpressure of up to 0.9 bar, with the turbine blades rotating at up to 150,000 rpm. The turbochargers and their hot gas ducting are accommodated on the outsides of the cylinder heads. This enabled the intercooler module with its air/water intercooler and charge-air distributor to be located inside the V of the engine.

The chargers were configured to provide high torque even at low engine speeds – compared to the previous engine, the result is an increase by more than 45 percent at 2000 rpm. No less than 600 Nm is available between 1600 and 4750 rpm.

The engine is based on a further development of the previous engine’s die cast aluminium crankcase with cast-in aluminium/silicon (Silitec) cylinder liners. Basic and connecting rod journal diameters were adopted from the preceding engine, while for load reasons the piston compression height was raised by just under four millimetres. By reducing the lift and shortening the connecting rod by 2 millimetres, it was possible to retain the interior height of the crankcase. As a remarkable feature, the high compression ratio of 10.5:1 remains unchanged versus the naturally aspirated preceding engine, showing the high efficiency of the new, turbocharged V8 when configured for premium fuel (RON 95).
Key figures for the new V8 engine

No. of cylinders
V8
Displacement (cc)
4633
Bore (mm)
92.9
Stroke (mm)
86
Compression ratio
10.5:1
Output (kW at rpm)
320 at 5250
Torque (Nm at rpm)
700 from 1800-3500

The V6 particularly impresses with its low fuel consumption

In contrast to the V8 the new V6 engine is naturally aspirated, and has the potential for future use of a turbocharger thanks to the modular design concept. The most striking change between the new V6 unit and its predecessor is a reduction in the V-angle between the cylinder banks from 90 degrees to 60 degrees. This enabled the balancer shaft countering primary vibrations to be omitted, and as a result the driver registers an outstanding level of comfort.

A completely new intake and exhaust gas system with a variable-resonance intake manifold and optimised airflows was also developed for the new V6. This enabled the output of the 3499 cc engine to be increased to 225 kW (306 hp) (Previous engine of the same displacement in the S-Class: 200 kW/272 hp). Torque has increased from 350 Nm to 370 Nm, and is available between 3500 and 5250 rpm.

The improvement in fuel consumption is particularly remarkable. The S 350 with the new V6 engine consumes just 7.6 litres per 100 kilometres (CO2 emissions: 177 g/km), which makes it 24 percent more economical than its predecessor (10.0 l/100 km). It also makes the new V6 the benchmark in its segment for a comparable output (provisional figures).

Key figures for the new V6 engine

No. of cylinders
V6
Displacement (cc)
3499
Bore (mm)
92.9
Stroke (mm)
86
Compression ratio:
12.2:1
Output (kW at rpm)
225 at 6500
Torque (Nm at rpm)
370 from 3500-5250

Innovative technology makes V6 and V8 engines fit for the future

Both the new V6 and the new V8 from Mercedes-Benz have aluminium crankcases, pistons and cylinder heads. The crankshaft, connecting rods and valves are of special forged steel.

Mercedes-Benz has achieved this considerable leap in efficiency with the use of innovative technology – including newly developed, third-generation direct petrol injection with spray-guided combustion, multiple injection and multi-spark ignition. With this new generation of V-engines, Mercedes-Benz is clearly demonstrating that with concerted further development, internal combustion engines still have a great deal of potential, and that V6 and V8 engines with their great running refinement are fit for the future.

The technology package in the new engine generation includes a number of new developments that are unique in this combination:

• In combination with multi-spark ignition, a further developed, third generation direct fuel injection system with spray-guided combustion and piezo-electric injectors offers further possibilities for fuel savings – in the V8 by means of an improved, homogeneous combustion process, and in the V6 by a new, stratified combustion process with a considerably extended characteristic map and fuel-efficient lean-burn technology.

• In conjunction with start/stop technology, shift point adjustment and specific friction-reducing measures, improvements in day-to-day fuel consumption by more than 20 percent are possible.

• Power consumption by ancillary units has been reduced. These include an optimised water pump with second generation thermal management, a demand-controlled oil pump, a volume-controlled high-pressure fuel pump and an intelligent generator management system.

Lightweight construction techniques and detailed improvements have also reduced in-engine friction considerably compared to the previous engine.

Third generation direct petrol injection

Direct petrol injection with spray-guided combustion, which Mercedes-Benz was the first car manufacturer to introduce in series production, has been developed further as a third generation. The system pressure is up to 200 bar, the pressure being variably optimised according to the engine’s characteristic map. Completely newly developed piezo-electric injectors allow up to five injections per intake stroke for the best possible mixture formation.

The crystalline structure of the piezo-ceramic changes in microseconds under an electric voltage, and with a precision of just a few thousandths of a millimetre. The central component of a piezo-electric injector is the piezo-stack, which directly controls the metering needle. With a response time of just 0.1 milli-seconds, the fuel injection can be very sensitively and precisely adjusted to the current load and engine speed, with a beneficial effect on emissions, fuel consumption and combustion noise.

The multiple injections even in tiny quantities made possible with piezo-electric injection technology were used by Mercedes-Benz engineers to control a wider characteristic map with the efficient lean-burn process, and to provide the conditions for further functions:

• As the first new operating mode, Mercedes-Benz engineers have developed “Homogeneous stratified combustion” (HOS). As the name implies, HOS is a combination of homogeneous lean-burn and classic stratified combustion. The first injection is sprayed into the intake stroke, forming a homogeneous basic mixture. Actual “stratified” injection takes place during the compression stroke before ignition, and is a single or double injection depending on the characteristic map.

• Another new operating mode is known as “Homogeneous Split” (HSP). In this homogeneous combustion process, more than 95 percent of the fuel is singly or multiply injected, followed a very small “ignition” injection to stabilise combustion. This is used when combustion conditions are difficult.

The characteristic map of the new Mercedes-Benz V6 engine is therefore basically divided into up to four areas:

− idling range (homogeneous)
− low partial load up to 4 bar and 3800 rpm (stratified)
− medium partial load 4 to 8 bar and up to 4000 rpm (HOS)
− high load and entire engine speed range (homogeneous or HSP)

The V8 engine is operated homogeneously over the entire characteristic map, but under high load homogeneous or HSP operation is used to improve smooth running characteristics:

Multi-spark ignition for optimal efficiency

The third-generation direct injection system also features rapid multi-spark ignition (MSI). Following the first spark discharge and a brief combustion period, the coil is rapidly recharged and a further spark is discharged. The MSI system enables up to four sparks to be discharged in rapid succession within one millisecond, creating a plasma with a larger spatial expansion than conventional ignition. Controlling this rapid multi-spark ignition enables both the time lapse before the next spark and the combustion duration for the relevant operating point to be optimally adjusted. This provides scope for optimising the centre of combustion and improving residual gas compatibility, especially during stratified charge operation. Fuel consumption can be reduced by roughly two percent in this way.

Fuel savings of up to four percent are possible alone by the use of piezo-electric injection technology in combination with multi-spark ignition, depending on the driving cycle.

Cylinder head with new camshaft adjuster

On the basis of the previous engine’s architecture, Mercedes-Benz engineers developed the variable, hydraulic vane-type camshaft adjusters for the intake and exhaust sides. These now have a larger adjustment range of 40 degrees with reference to the crankshaft. They were also able to improve the functionality, achieving a 35-percent greater adjustment speed and adjustability at an oil pressure as low as 0.44 bar. Despite the better performance, this new development excels with significantly smaller dimensions and low weight. For this reason the installation space on the longitudinal and vertical axes of the engine was able to be reduced by around 15 millimetres.

Two-stage chain drive for low noise

The extreme compactness of the camshaft adjusters was achieved by the new, two-stage chain drive. This drives short secondary chains – one per cylinder bank – via a primary chain and an intermediate gear. All three chains can be individually adjusted via a chain tensioner. This results in low tensioning forces and low chain dynamics, ensuring consistent timing and outstanding acoustic properties, with friction reduced even further. In short, the new chain drive is compact and ensures low-noise operation.

Controlled oil pump with two pressure stages

A fourth chain drivers a likewise completely newly developed, variable vane-type oil pump. The operates with two pressure stages, depending on the characteristic map. At low engine speeds and loads the pump runs at a low pressure of two bar. At this time the oil-spray nozzles for piston cooling are switched off. The high-pressure stage is activated at the upper load and engine speed levels. Thanks to this control concept, the lubrication and cooling points of the engine can be supplied with significantly lower drive energy than would be possible with an uncontrolled pump.

New coolant ducting and 3-phase thermal management

The coolant ducting in the cylinder head is also completely new. The water mantle is of two-piece construction to improve flow. This leads to specific increases in flow speeds and heat dissipation at certain points, accompanied by a reduction in pressure throughout the coolant circuit. This has made it possible to reduce the power output of the water pump despite an increased engine output.

As it warms up, the flow of coolant is regulated by a 3-phase thermal management system so that it rapidly reaches normal operating temperature. Initially the coolant remains at rest in the engine. It then circulates in the engine circuit, but without the radiator. When a temperature of 105 degrees Celsius has been reached in normal operation (87 degrees Celsius under high load), the vehicle’s radiator is included in the circuit. The water supply to the interior heating system is separately controllable.

Component weights have also been reduced by the concerted replacement of aluminium and steel by plastics, e.g. for the thermostat, belt pulley, wheel, heater valve and hydraulic lines.

Start/stop function with direct-start

The new start/stop system operates with starter-supported direct-start. This means that when the engine is switched off, the attitude of the crankshaft is registered by a new crankshaft sensor so that the engine control unit knows the positions of the individual pistons. On restarting, it can then select the cylinder that has the most suitable piston position for first ignition. After the starter has briefly turned over the engine, reliable injection, ignition and combustion is immediately possible.

Minimised friction

Particular attention was paid to reduced friction in both engines. This was primarily achieved by a reduction in flow through the oil and water pumps, low-friction pistons, piston rings and cylinder walls, plus the new thermal management system and chain drive.

Fit for the future thanks to modular construction

The new V-engines from Mercedes-Benz are fit for the future. They can not only be combined with a start/stop function, but also coupled with the 4MATIC four-wheel drive system or integrated into a hybrid drive system.

The new engines meet all worldwide emissions regulations. The use of third generation, direct petrol injection with spray-guided combustion and piezo-electric injectors provides a particularly good basis for increased stringency in the future.

New V8 and V6 engines with innovative technology from Mercedes-Benz

Quantum leap in efficiency: smooth refinement meets new dimensions in power and environmental compatibility

Stuttgart – Mercedes-Benz is setting previously unachievable efficiency standards in the premium segment with completely newly developed V6 and V8 engines. The new V8 engine has a displacement of 4663 cc and develops an output of 320 kW (435 hp), which is around 12 percent more than its predecessor despite approx. 0.8 litres less displacement. Torque has increased from 530 Nm to 700 Nm – i.e. by no less than 32 percent. Fuel consumption has however been reduced by 22 percent. With the same 3499 cc displacement as its predecessor, the new V6 engine develops 225 kW (306 hp). Torque has increased from 350 Nm to 370 Nm. Here too, the improvement in fuel efficiency is remarkable. The S 350 with the new V6 engine consumes an economical 7.6 litres per 100 kilometres, a saving of 24 percent compared to its predecessor. Mercedes-Benz has achieved this considerable leap in efficiency with the use of a start/stop function as standard and other features such as newly developed, third-generation direct petrol injection with spray-guided combustion, multiple injection and multi-spark ignition. With this new generation of V-engines, Mercedes-Benz is clearly demonstrating that with concerted further development, internal combustion engines still have a great deal of potential, and that V6 and V8 engines with their great running refinement can continue to be used to good effect in the future.

Considerably less fuel consumption despite a much higher output was the development objective for the new Mercedes-Benz V-engine generation, which will initially be used as an 8-cylinder in the CL-Class, and later in the S-Class from autumn 2010. Mercedes-Benz developed the new six and eight-cylinder units because optimised internal combustion engines continue to have specific advantages over other drive systems with respect to operating range and refuelling time and costs, while offering the greatest short-term potential to achieve significant fuel savings in day-to-day operation.

“The new six and eight-cylinder engines from Mercedes-Benz are a unique synthesis of effortless power delivery, comfort and efficiency,” says Dr. Thomas Weber, the member of the Daimler AG Executive Board responsible for corporate research and development at Mercedes-Benz Cars. “Both impress with refinement at the highest level, as well as exemplary environmental compatibility.”

The new Mercedes-Benz engine family is uncompromisingly based on modularisation. It allows the use of a start/stop function, 4MATIC all-wheel drive and combination with a hybrid module.

The V8 is in a new league of its own

On the basis of its predecessor, the new V8 has undergone concerted further development. For example, it has a 15-percent smaller displacement (4663 cc rather than 5461 cc) but generates 320 kW (435 hp) and therefore around 12 percent more output than the preceding unit (285 kW/388 hp). Whereas the current CL 500 consumes 12.3 litres per 100 kilometres, this figure drops to 9.5 litres with the new engine – a reduction of 22 percent. CO2 emissions have likewise fallen by 22 percent, from 288 g/km to 224 g/km – an outstanding figure for this performance class. At the same time torque has been raised from 530 Nm to 700 Nm – an increase of 32 percent.

As the high maximum torque is already available from 1800 rpm, the new high-tech V8 already exhibits an outstanding power delivery at low engine speeds, together with smoothness and refinement that is remarkable even for an eight-cylinder.

In the new V8, Mercedes-Benz engineers primarily achieved a high output for a lower displacement by using two turbochargers — one for each bank of cylinders. The chargers were configured to provide high torque even at low engine speeds – compared to the previous engine the result is an increase of more than 40 percent at 2000 rpm. An outstanding 600 Nm is available between 1600 and 4750 rpm. The driver therefore perceives no turbo delay, but experiences the same pleasant and effortless performance from the new V8 as that delivered by a mighty, naturally aspirated 7-litre engine.

The V6 particularly impresses with its low fuel consumption

The new V6 engine is naturally aspirated, and has the potential for future use of a turbocharger thanks to the modular design concept. The most striking change between the new V6 unit and its predecessor is a reduction in the V-angle between the cylinder banks from 90 degrees to 60 degrees. This enabled the balancer shaft countering primary vibrations to be omitted, and as a result the driver registers an outstanding level of comfort.

A completely new intake and exhaust gas system with a variable-resonance intake manifold and optimised airflows was also developed for the new V6. This enabled the output of the 3499 cc engine to be increased to 225 kW (306 hp) (Previous engine of the same displacement in the S-Class: 200 kW/272 hp). Torque has increased from 350 Nm to 370 Nm, and is available between 3500 and 5250 rpm.

The improvement in fuel consumption is particularly remarkable. The S 350 with the new V6 engine consumes just 7.6 litres per 100 kilometres (CO2 emissions: 177 g/km), which makes it 24 percent more economical than its predecessor (10.0 l/100 km). It also makes the new V6 the benchmark in its segment for a comparable output (provisional figures).

Innovative technology makes V6 and V8 engines fit for the future

Both the new V6 and the new V8 from Mercedes-Benz have aluminium crankcases, pistons and cylinder heads. The crankshaft, connecting rods and valves are of special forged steel.

The technology package in the new engine generation includes a number of new developments that are unique in this combination:

• In combination with multi-spark ignition, a further developed, third generation direct fuel injection system with spray-guided combustion and piezo-electric injectors offers further possibilities for fuel savings – in the V8 by means of an improved, homogeneous combustion process, and in the V6 by a new, stratified combustion process with a considerably extended characteristic map and fuel-efficient lean-burn technology.

• In conjunction with start/stop technology, shift point adjustment and specific friction-reducing measures, improvements in day-to-day fuel consumption by more than 20 percent are possible.

• Power consumption by ancillary units has been reduced. These include an optimised water pump with 2nd-generation thermal management, a demand-controlled oil pump, a volume-controlled high-pressure fuel pump and an intelligent generator management system.

Lightweight construction techniques and detailed improvements have also reduced in-engine friction considerably compared to the previous engine.

With its new-generation V-engines, Mercedes-Benz is clearly demonstrating that with concerted further development, internal combustion engines still have a great deal of potential, and that V6 and V8 engines with their high level of refinement are fit for the future.

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