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Mercedes SLR McLaren Roadster 722 S

Mercedes SLR McLaren Roadster 722 S

Mercedes SLR McLaren Roadster 722 S
The new Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster 722 S opens up astonishing dimensions when it comes to open-top driving. Delivering 478 kW/650 hp, acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.7 seconds and a maximum speed of 335 km/h, this two-seater cabriolet surpasses the existing benchmark among open-top super sports cars - the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster. Both vehicles feature a fully retractable folding soft top capable of withstanding the high speed and are made of carbon fibre. This endows both models with a very high degree of safety and extreme torsional stiffness. In addition to increased power, the new Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster 722 S features even more dynamic suspension tuning and improved aerodynamics. While enjoying exceptional performance, the new roadster's occupants in no way lose out in terms of comfort or the vehicle's suitability for everyday use. With its sporty, premium-quality interior appointments and distinctive motorsport pedigree, the new Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster 722 S is limited to 150 vehicles and will inspire the most discerning automotive enthusiasts.

Spectacular dimensions in open-top driving are opened up by the new Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster 722 S. With an output of 478 kW/650 hp, acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.7 seconds and a top speed of 335 km/h, this open two-seater betters the standard set for open-air super-sports cars by the SLR McLaren Roadster. Both have a fully recessible soft top suitable for high speed driving, and are made from carbon fibre. This produces a very high level of safety and extremely high torsional strength. In addition to a higher engine output, the new Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster 722 S has an even more dynamic suspension setup and further aerodynamic improvements.



2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster 722 S
By naming this new model variant the SLR Roadster 722 S, Mercedes-Benz is recalling the historic victory won at the classic Mille Miglia long-distance race in 1955 by British motor-racing legend Stirling Moss and his co-driver Dennis Jenkinson, in a Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR with the starting number 722. The Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster 722 S continues the legend of the successful 1950s SLR racing sports cars, with innovative technology adopted from the world of motorsport.

Engine hand-built by AMG

The powerful heart of the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster 722 S is a supercharged 5.5-litre V8 engine which is hand-built in the Mercedes-AMG engine shop in Affalterbach. The special strengths of this high-performance engine include extraordinary responsiveness to movements of the accelerator, a high torque and an unmistakable V8 sound. Moreover, with an output of 478 kW/650 hp and 820 Nm of torque, power is on tap almost to excess (SLR McLaren Roadster: 460 kW/626 hp, 780 Nm). Accordingly the new model variant meets the wishes of the most discerning customers for even more sportiness combined with excellent day-to-day practicality.

The five-speed automatic transmission developed by Mercedes-Benz is designed for high performance. It is specially configured for a very high torque, and allows the driver to choose between two sets of shift characteristics. As a result the roadster achieves performance figures that are even outstanding for the high-end sports car segment: the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster 722 S absolves a sprint from zero to 100 km/h in a breathtaking 3.7 seconds, and 200 km/h is reached in 10.6 seconds. The maximum speed is 335 km/h, which is unrivalled by any other series-production roadster.

Even more dynamic suspension setup

The spring and shock absorber configurations of the suspension are stiffer, and the body has been lowered by 10 millimetres at the front and rear. This ensures the greater handling stability of the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster 722 S, with a significant improvement in handling dynamics. The lightweight, 19-inch forged aluminium wheels allow a view of the red-painted brake callipers on the highly-resistant carbon-fibre/ceramic brake discs, which make for impressive deceleration figures.

Sophisticated aerodynamics and a fabric soft top suited to high-speed driving

The outstanding qualities of the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster 722 S are complemented by the fully recessible fabric soft top, which blends harmoniously into the flowing lines of the roadster. The weave structure of this high-tech roof material reflects the carbon-fibre look, guarantees full day-to-day suitability in any weather conditions and allows the vehicle a top speed of 335 km/h - a unusual figure for a roadster. Thanks to favourable aeroacoustics, conversation during open-air journeys is still possible at well over 200 km/h.

The soft top opens and closes semi-automatically in around ten seconds, combining comfort expectations with the purist nature of the roadster. For opening, the roof needs to be unlatched at the windscreen frame and lifted slightly, after which it folds down electrically. The front section of the soft top features an integral aluminium cap, which effectively prevents "ballooning" at high speeds.

The handling and aerodynamics of this high-end roadster were optimised for high speeds in the wind tunnel. The aerodynamic concept follows that of the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Coupe, with an airbrake integrated into the boot lid, an enclosed underbody and a diffusor in the rear bumper to ensure the greatest possible downforce on the rear axle. The so-called airsplitter at the front end augments this downforce, while small wheel spoilers reduce turbulence at the rear axle. The result is precise handling and steering at high speeds.

Outstanding performance and safety thanks to carbon fibre technology

In technical terms the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster 722 S benefits from the long experience of Mercedes-Benz and its Formula-1 partner McLaren. With the exception of two aluminium frames, the body is completely of carbon-fibre materials (CFRP). This makes it highly exceptional among high-performance sports cars. Especially for the roadster, the sophisticated carbon-fibre technology was developed further for the monocoque. The result is low weight, exemplary energy absorption and therefore a high level of occupant safety, plus a torsional rigidity that is unprecedented for an open-top car. It allows outstanding handling characteristics that are otherwise only found in closed super-sports cars.

A high level of safety is provided by unique carbon-fibre crash structures, steel-reinforced A-pillars and two fixed rollover bars. Other safety features include adaptive airbags, knee and sidebags, belt tensioners and a tyre pressure monitoring system.

A thoroughly sporty appearance

The roadster has a crystal antimony grey paint finish, which highlights the sculptured look of this high-performance car particularly effectively. The carbon-fibre technology is visually complemented by the black, grid-like air vents on the bonnet and the front and rear light modules with palladium grey surrounds.

In the interior, outstanding lateral support is guaranteed by sports bucket seats upholstered in a combination of semi-aniline leather/Alcantara. Striking visual highlights are provided by the contrasting seams in Mercedes-Benz 300 SL red, the embossed 722 S lettering on the head restraints and the likewise red seat belts. Frequently used controls such as the shift and parking brake levers are lined in particularly high-grip and moisture-absorbing suede leather. In the interior too, the generous use of carbon-fibre underlines the high-performance philosophy and adds a particularly puristic touch.

Exclusive appointments

The exclusive appointments include two-zone automatic climate control, a high-quality BOSE Premium sound system, a multifunction sports steering wheel with shift paddles and a navigation system with an integrated radio and CD player.

This limited edition of 150 examples is predominantly hand-built at the Formula 1 workshops of McLaren in Woking, England, and is available from January 1, 2009.

Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport

Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport

Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport

The world's most significant celebration of the automobile takes place annually in Monterey, California. In 2009, it saw some of the most elegant, exclusive, and valuable vehicles ever produced in over 100 years of motoring, with Bugatti playing a prominent role. On the evening prior to the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance, the highlight of the event, the marque renowned for impeccable automotive solutions, aesthetics and driving dynamics unveiled a second model to the world - the new Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport with a unique removable roof.

In response to customer demand, significant modifications have been made to the vehicle's complex structure to make possible open-top driving, thereby adding a new dimension to this high-performance sports car. Incorporating a host of new and innovative safety and equipment features, it is the world's fastest and most exciting roadster. It is immediately recognizable as a result of its slightly higher windscreen, stylized daytime running lights, and lightweight, transparent polycarbonate roof.

The main challenge in developing the new Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport with removable roof resulted from the unique structure of the fixed-roof Bugatti Veyron. An optimum combination of rigidity and lightweight engineering ensures the monocoque passenger cell of the original model is extremely strong while weighing an absolute minimum - it is a central element of the vehicle's structure. As the roof is an integral part of this, removing it meant the load paths had to be completely redesigned to maintain the vehicle's rigidity and crash safety, and to offer additional protection from side impacts and rolling.
Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport (2009)
2009 Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport

As a result, the monocoque structure has been reinforced around the side skirts and the transmission tunnel. The B-pillars have been cross-stiffened using a carbon fibre support, and a central carbon plate has been positioned beneath the transmission tunnel to ensure the vehicle suffers from less torsional flexing than any other roadster.

The doors of the new Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport are made of carbon fibre, and house an integrated longitudinal beam.

In the event of an accident, this transfers the load from the A to the B-pillar, thereby dissipating impact energy. Furthermore, the two redesigned air intakes for the 16-cylinder mid-engine now feature 10-centimetre wide carbon-fibre elements to offer protection should the car roll.

Along with moisture-resistant, backstitched leather, a range of new equipment features has been added to the interior, including a reversing camera with 2.7-inch monitor in the rear-view-mirror, and the "Puccini" sound system with digital signal processor.

When the roof is closed, the Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport can reach 407 km/h, while speeds of up to 360 km/h are possible with roof off. Should it rain, an innovative folding roof stored in the luggage compartment can be opened up like an umbrella at any time. When this folding roof is in place, the car can travel at up to 130 km/h.

Assembled by hand at the company's headquarters in Molsheim, Alsace, the Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport will be available from March 2009 at the price of 1.4 million euros (excluding tax). Just 150 examples will be made, with the first 50 of these going exclusively to registered Bugatti customers. The first vehicle is certain to be highly sought after, and Bugatti has taken the decision to donate this specific car to charity. It will be sold to the highest bidder at the Pebble Beach Auction presented by Gooding & Company.

Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Specifications

    Dimensions
        Length: 4,462 mm
        Width: 1,998 mm
        Height, Normal Position: 1,204 mm
        Wheel base: 2,710 mm
        Curb Weight: 1,968 kg
        Max. permitted laden weight: 2,280 kg
        Tank capacity: 100 l
    Engine
        Motor Type/Number of Cylinders: W16
        Cylinder Capacity: 7 993 cm3
        Power output: 736 KW (1,001 hp) @ 6,000 rpm
        Max. torque: 1,250 Nm @ 2,200-5,500 rpm
        Gearbox: 7 Gear DSG
        Drive: 4WD
        Power distribution: Front axle differential with Haldex clutch; rear axle with with transverse differential lock
    Suspension
        Wheel suspension: Double wishbone front / rear
        Tyre, front: 265-680 ZR 500A Michelin Pilot Sport Pax
        Tyres, rear: 365-710 ZR 540A Michelin Pilot Sport Pax
        Tyre pressure: 3.1 bar front, 3.1 bar rear
    Suspension Heights (front / rear)
        Standard: 125 mm / 125 mm - For town traffic and speeds up to 220 km/h. From 220 km/h, automatic configuration switches from Standard to Handling
        Handling: 80 mm / 95 mm - For fast driving on country roads or motorways, or manually selectable for race tracks
        Top Speed: 65 mm / 70 mm - For V-max driving (over 375 km/h), manually selectable with separate key
    Brakes
        Brake disk diameter: 400 mm front, 380 mm rear
        Brake disk material: Carbon / ceramic front / rear
        Number of wheel brake cylinders: 8 front, 6 rear
        Number of brake pads: 4 front, 2 rear
    Aerodynamics
        CW Values
            Standard: 0.39
            Handling: 0.42
            Top Speed: 0.36
            Airbrake: 0.68
        Wing/Spoiler Angle
            Standard: Retracted / 2° cool-down position
            Handling with roof: 6°/27°
            Handling without roof: 20°/27°
            Top Speed: 2°
            Brake setting: 55°/27°
            Special features: Central hydraulics
    Fuel Consumption
        In town: 41,9 l/100km
        Out of town: 15,6 l/100km
        Combined: 24,9 l/100km
        Fuel type: Super lead free 98 RON / ROZ
    CO2-Emission
        In town: 999 g/km
        Out of town: 373 g/km
        Combined: 596 g/km
    Performance
        Top speed: 407 km/h
        Acceleration
            0-100 km/h: < 2.7sec
            0-200 km/h: 7.3 sec
            0-300 km/h: 16.7 sec
        Braking distance (100-0 km/h): 31.4 m
        Gearbox shift time: < 150 ms

Dodge Ram Laramie Limited

Dodge Ram Laramie Limited

Dodge Ram Laramie Limited

For 2012, Ram Truck will expand its model lineup by adding the new, top-of-the-line Ram Laramie Limited.

"The Ram Truck brand's greatest strengths are our commitment to listen to customers and to understand what motivates them," said Fred Diaz, President and CEO, Ram Truck Brand - Chrysler Group LLC. "We've successfully added Ram truck models designed for outdoorsmen, tradesmen, first-time buyers and ranchers. Laramie Limited is designed to meet the high expectations of affluent pickup truck buyers looking to combine capability with elegance."

Featuring premium materials, such as full-leather seating, piano-black interior components and under-stated exterior badging, Ram Laramie Limited offers a refined luxury alternative to the popular southwestern-themed Ram Laramie Longhorn edition pickup.

"The launch of the Ram Laramie Longhorn edition gave us a boost in the ultra-premium pickup segment and exceeded our expectations," added Diaz. "Ram Laramie Limited offers customers an even wider selection of luxury models. We expect a lot of interest in the Laramie Limited.

"The Ram Laramie Limited customer is going to be involved in some sort of motor-sport activity. Whether they're towing a ski boat, a race-car hauler, motorcycles or snowmobiles, they're looking for comfort and class and an expressive way to carry their crew and their gear."

The new Ram will make its debut at the 2012 Chicago Auto Show.

Exterior

Ram Laramie Limited gets a body-color front fascia with fog lamps and a matching, painted rear bumper. Ram Laramie Limited 2500 and 3500 models in white and silver exterior colors get chrome front and rear bumpers. The Laramie Limited's chrome grille surrounds billet inserts that are featured on Ram Sport models. Understated chrome accents include body-side molding, mirrors, door handles and tubular side steps.
Dodge Ram Laramie Limited (2012)
2012 Dodge Ram Laramie Limited

The Laramie Limited's body side has a clean, "street truck" look and eliminates the traditional HEMI®, Cummins and Ram model line badges.

Tailgate badging includes the chrome Ram's Head logo and a small italicized block-letter "Limited."

Ram 1500 Laramie Limited shares 20-inch forged aluminum wheels with the Ram Laramie Longhorn. Polished surfaces are accented with painted silver pockets. Heavy Duty models feature 17-inch fully polished aluminum wheels. Wheel centers are embossed with the Ram brand name.

The Ram 1500 Laramie Limited is available in six exterior color choices, including: black, bright silver metallic, bright white, deep cherry red pearl, mineral gray metallic and true blue. Ram Heavy Duty models are available in black, bright silver metallic, bright white and mineral gray metallic.

Interior

The 2012 Ram Laramie Limited Edition features a modern, luxurious interior.

A full-leather cockpit with dark slate Natura Plus leather seats and engraved details lend the Ram Laramie Limited an unmatched level of sophistication and style.

Contrasting medium graystone leather piping provides seat-edge emphasis. Additional accents are created along either side of the piping by medium graystone deck-seam stitching.

The Ram Laramie Limited's cavernous double-stacked center console is topped with a soft, double French-stitched full-leather lid.

In addition to 100 percent leather seat coverings, Ram Laramie Limited gets a premium leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter - console mounted on 1500, column mounted on 2500 and 3500 Heavy Duty models. Accent medium graystone X-stitch detailing sets off both the steering wheel and shifter.

Door trim front and rear also is wrapped in premium leather. Leather armrest uppers are further accented with the same dual French stitch used on the center console lid and instrument panel.

Ram Laramie Limited editions receive remote LED lighting at the inside door handles and a full-length light that illuminates the truck's multi-function lower map pockets, front and rear.

The dash features a center stack trimmed in high-gloss piano-black. Liquid graphite side bezels and bright chrome vent rings complete the center stack's detailing. Piano-black finishes also are used in the door panels and are trimmed in bright chrome.

Ram Laramie Limited's gauge cluster is accented with pad-print chrome rings that share the high-end appearance of a gentleman's watch and include the imprinted message: "Designed in Detroit." Gauge needles are finished in liquid graphite.

A liquid graphite glovebox spear with pinstriped details and black and chrome "Limited" badge complete the dash.

Beneath the dash is soft foot-well lighting, providing both a functional and aesthetic interior enhancement.

Passengers also enjoy solid dark slate premium berber carpet floor mats with medium graystone accent stitching. Rear flap-closure seatback map pockets with modern chrome Ram-lettered detailed metal buckles also are unique to Ram Laramie Limited. For entry and exit, brushed-silver Ram-branded door sill plates resist scuffs and add visual appeal.

Other Features

Ram Laramie Limited also is equipped with a navigational radio, remote start, back-up camera, power adjustable pedals with memory, heated steering wheel, front ventilated and heated seats and rear heated seats.

Ram Laramie Limited will be available in 1500 (1/2-ton), 2500 HD (3/4-ton) and 3500 HD single- and dual-rear-wheel (1-ton); Crew Cab and Mega Cab; four-wheel drive and two-wheel drive; and short- and long-wheelbase models.

Laramie Limited will join the other Ram trim levels, which include: ST, Tradesman, Tradesman HD, Express, SLT, Outdoorsman, Mossy Oak edition, Sport, R/T, Laramie, Laramie Longhorn and Power Wagon (2500 only).

Laramie Limited will be available Q2 2012.