McLaren expands further, this time, a new dealership in Bangkok.

McLaren Automotive continues to grow and strengthen the global retailer network with the appointment of the latest retail partner in Thailand. McLaren Bangkok is the eighth location in Asia for the British high performance sports car brand, and marks the 30th market worldwide.

McLaren Bangkok will be operated by Niche Cars Co. Ltd., which boasts extensive market experience, and are leaders in the sourcing and sale of luxury and performance cars throughout Thailand. The latest location to be added to the McLaren Automotive retail portfolio will be located in the Siam Paragon luxury shopping mall in the country’s capital, which is one of the largest shopping centres in Asia.

Commenting on the appointment, Mirko Bordiga McLaren Automotive Regional Director for Asia-Pacific explains: ‘We are extremely pleased to announce our latest retail partner in the region, which will bring the McLaren brand to Thailand. The Asia-Pacific region has seen rapid growth recently with the significant expansion of our retailer network, and further strengthens our brand presence globally.’

Vittawat Chinabarramee, Managing Director of Niche Cars Co., Ltd added: "We are delighted to be appointed the representative for McLaren in Thailand. The McLaren brand has been making history on the track for 50 years, and the cutting-edge Formula 1 expertise and technologies now feature on a stunning range of high performance sports cars. It is with great pleasure that Niche Cars Co., Ltd can bring the  12C and, most notably, the limited edition McLaren P1™ to all car enthusiasts who are most eager of the brand’s presence here in Thailand."

FORMULA ONE - James Hunt to be inducted into Motor Sport Hall of Fame (AT LAST)

• 1976 world champion one of four new inductees for 2014
• Hunt family out in force to receive prestigious accolade
• James Hunt will be one of four racing legends to be inducted into the coveted Motor Sport Hall of Fame later this month.

While breaking with tradition, the announcement in advance whets the appetite for a star-studded evening at the Royal Opera House on Wednesday 29 January.

Hunt, who sadly passed away in 1993, will always be remembered as one of the sport’s biggest personalities – more so now that his ultimately successful title duel with arch-rival Niki Lauda in 1976 has been immortalised in the Hollywood blockbuster Rush. The Austrian legend, though, did beat his British nemesis into the Hall of Fame – he is one of motor sport’s 25 greatest names already inducted.

“James Hunt belongs in rarified company as a great British sporting hero who transcended the arena that made him famous to become a genuine national – if not global – icon. During the 1970s you didn’t need to be a motor racing fan to know who James Hunt was,” said Damien Smith, editor of Motor Sport magazine.

“Clearly, he was a natural star, but the force of his personality sometimes means his ability and achievements as a truly exceptional racing driver are overlooked. That is why we feel it is important that James is made a member of the Motor Sport Hall of Fame. It was his competitive instinct, bravery and sheer speed that carried him to the 1976 F1® World Championship, and he fully deserves to join former rivals such as Niki Lauda, Jody Scheckter and Mario Andretti in our exclusive club of legends.”

No fewer than 15 members of the Hunt family will be present in London to see the accolade presented to James’ eldest son, Tom Hunt.

While the star-studded Motor Sport Hall of Fame evening is strictly ‘by-invitation-only’, highlights while be broadcast in an F1®Show Special aired on Sky Sports F1® at 20:30hrs on Friday 31 January 2014 and again throughout the following week.

Caterham cars breaks export sales record for 2013

Caterham Cars has sold more vehicles to overseas buyers in 2013 than in any other year in the firm’s history. Its export sales now represent over 61 percent of all units sold.

Thanks to its expanding export team, the British sportscar marque has notched up over 300 export sales of its famous two-seater Seven model in 2013, outstripping last year’s total by 25 per cent.

Outside of the UK, Caterham Cars’ largest market is France accounting for almost a third of its overseas sales in 2013.  Japan follows closely, almost doubling its sales year on year. More progress is expected in the Japanese market, thanks to the introduction of the new Seven 130*.

Meanwhile Swiss dealer Kumschick Sports Cars cemented its 30-year relationship with the iconic British sports car with the most successful sales year in over a decade; the best-selling model being the Seven 485.

Caterham’s profile also continues to rise across the Atlantic, thanks to the success of its partnership with Dyson Racing which imports the SP/300.R racer. Caterham recently announced Superformance as its sole new North American importer for its Seven products and the appointment has already seen a positive impact on sales. Caterham intends to see USA sales volumes rise over the next three years as it further develops the local market.

Overseas expansion continues further afield with new dealers already appointed in South American markets Chile, Peru and Colombia.

David Ridley, Chief Commercial Officer of Caterham Cars, said: “Caterham’s ethos - to deliver accessible fun – is well-known by the motoring public in the UK, but we are now applying that philosophy across Europe and beyond. It’s satisfying to see consistent demand in our established markets like France, Japan and the USA, and it’s also very encouraging to see a growing demand from our new territories. Our on-going participation in Formula One is, in part, to thank for our growing global brand awareness”

“Caterham is the sort of brand which attracts genuine fans who are passionate about its heritage and potential. These unique qualities and a growing demand for genuine British products have helped us to steadily expand sales overseas. Several new models at the top and entry point of the range have also attracted new customers to the brand.”

Contributing to the strong export performance are new models which conform to strict EU6 regulations, including the powerful, 240ps Seven 485 and the innovative entry-level Seven 165. Caterham’s one-make racing championships also continue to develop strongly in markets outside of the UK.

Known for its extreme performance, handling finesse and low weight, the Seven range starts at £14,995** in the UK and €19,995 in mainland Europe (+ local taxes).

The Caterham Group – formed by a team led by Tony Fernandes – incorporates Caterham Cars, Caterham F1 Team, Caterham Technology & Innovation, Caterham Composites and the recently-announced Caterham Bikes division.

The safetst car on UK's roads..... that will be an Infiniti Q50

According to the latest tests carried out by Thatcham, the Motor Insurance Repair Research Centre, the Infiniti Q50 has proved itself to have one of the most advanced standard fit collision avoidance systems that the Centre has ever tested. Together with its recently announced five star Euro NCAP rating the Infiniti Q50 is easily one of the safest cars on the road.

Thatcham’s Chief Executive Peter Shaw explains: “The majority of accidents on our roads are caused by driver distraction often at junctions. Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) systems can warn the driver of the potential danger ahead and then automatically slow the vehicle down or even bring it to a complete halt if necessary. Here at Thatcham we assess these systems in the Insurance Group Rating “City” test on behalf of UK insurers to evaluate their performance in the most common type of crash: the front-to-rear shunt”.

“In the test we drive the car under robot control at speeds of up to 50km/h towards a unique soft target representing another vehicle, and we measure how well the car performs at avoiding a crash or reducing the impact speed. The Q50 not only avoided the crash at the maximum 50km/h test speed, the Infiniti engineers were confident that it could also do the same at 60km/h, and so it proved. This is a remarkable achievement and as such the Q50 is one of the best performers we’ve seen to date.”

Fintan Knight, Vice President for Infiniti Europe, Middle East and Africa added: “Today’s drivers need all the help they can get to stay relaxed, comfortable and safe behind the wheel which is why the Q50 is available with many innovative new safety systems.”

By using a highly specified radar system along with several cameras located around the vehicle to constantly monitor the vehicles surrounding area, many systems are able to combine together and reduce the risk of an accident ever taking place. Forward Emergency Braking is only one of many other features included in the optional Safety Pack -

• Reversing (Back-up Collision Intervention). Detects moving vehicles and objects behind the car when reverse gear is selected, warning the driver with visual and audible alerts. If necessary the system can autonomously engage the brakes to avoid a collision.
• Drifting out of lane (Lane Departure Warning and Lane Departure Prevention). Industry-first system senses unintended lane drift and assists the driver in guiding the vehicle back to the centre of its lane.
• Moving into the path of another vehicle (Blind Spot Intervention and Blind Spot Warning). World-first technology aids the driver in avoiding vehicles concealed in the blind-spot area during lane-change manoeuvres.
• Motorway hold-ups (Predictive Forward Collision Warning). Another world-first for Infiniti, PFCW warns the driver of hazards which lie beyond the driver’s field of view – seeing past not just the car in front but two cars ahead.
• Low-speed manoeuvring in busy areas (Around View Monitor with Moving Object Detection). Infiniti’s world-first real-time camera system provides a virtual 360 degree view of the environment around the car, with visual and audible warnings of hazards.

As well as the availability of the most advanced safety systems, every Infiniti Q50 includes safety-oriented features such as:

• Seat belt reminder system for all seats
• Speed limiter
• Active pop-up bonnet for pedestrian safety
• Electronic Stability Control with Active Trace Control
• LED fog lights front and rear
• Tyre Pressure Monitoring System
• Hill start assist
• Six airbags
• Rear view camera and front and rear parking sensors

Fintan Knight added: “Infiniti leads the way in introducing new safety technologies and the Q50 is available with more of them than ever before. As our new-generation standard bearer the Q50 shows just how committed we are to road safety and to keeping the brand in the forefront of safety in the future.”

Infiniti will reveal a Formula One inspired concept car based on the Q50 at Detroit

Infiniti will reveal a Formula One inspired concept car based on the Q50 premium sports saloon at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

The concept will be unveiled during Infiniti’s press conference, on January 13.

The concept car represents Infiniti’s design vision of a high performance variant of Q50. Called ‘Q50 Eau Rouge’, the car is named after the world-famous corner at the Formula One track in Spa-Francorchamps, a corner which requires extraordinary strength, courage and commitment; it has seen some of the most incredible driving feats in Formula One history.  For Infiniti, the Q50 Eau Rouge concept blends road car technology and a thoroughbred motorsport vision.

The Q50 Eau Rouge features aerodynamic styling treatments and design elements which are influenced by Infiniti’s partnership with Formula One world championship-winning team Infiniti Red Bull Racing.

“Performance is a key pillar of Infiniti’s DNA and this car expresses a deepened design interpretation of that.  The Q50, with an abundance of technologies, provides a great basis for an extreme performance version, embodied in the design of Q50 Eau Rouge,” said Alfonso Albaisa, Infiniti’s Executive Design Director.

Felipe Massa Interview.

It's nearly time to say farewell. At the end of the year, Felipe Massa and Ferrari will go their separate ways in racing terms, but the affection that links the Brazilian to the team with which he grew up, as a driver and a man, will always be strong. That is clear from what Felipe had to say in an interview with Andrea Cremonesi in an interview in today’s Gazzetta dello Sport, as part of the build up to the 2013 Finali Mondiali, which gets underway today and goes on until Sunday at the Mugello circuit. The event will also serve as tribute that Ferrari wishes to pay to Felipe, who as stated in the headline to this story, will always be a Ferrari man.

Ten years at Ferrari, a racing life. Only Michael Schumacher wore the red race suit for longer than Felipe Massa, who leaves Maranello at the end of the year. Wearing that red suit, the Brazilian came within touching distance of taking the world title in 2008, but he also almost lost his life at the 2009 Hungarian GP.

The party in Mugello will feature the final huge Ferrari crowd: how will you feel going to the event in Tuscany?

“With happiness in my heart, because it will be wonderful to salute the fans to thank them for all the years we have spent together. They have always supported me, even in the most difficult times.”

Eight years as race driver: what’s the secret to staying such a long time at Ferrari?
“I have always behaved honestly and have given my all in my work on the track, with the engineers and in the factory. I think I have always acted very professionally.”

Do you remember your first day?
“It was early 2001 and I had come off the back of a season in F. Renault with Cram: I went to meet Jean Todt in a jacket and tie. Very tense and I was shaking.”

The best moment of this long adventure in red?
“Definitely 2008 when I came that close to the world title, with many wins and poles. But the day that will always stay with me was the one of my first win in Brazil (2006.) For a Brazilian to win at home is like taking the championship. Remember Senna? When he won in Interlagos he was happier than when he won the championship! I learned to race in Interlagos, I grew up there: to win there in a Ferrari wearing a green and yellow suit (not the usual red one, Editor’s note) was the best moment of my life.”

How do you explain to a youngster joining the FDA what it means to be a Ferrari driver?
“Mm, well first that it's hard to get in! Because the selection of drivers is a tough process and it’s already a privilege to be part of the reds. And then, driving for this team means always being under the spotlight, you must always push to the maximum without worrying what people will say about you. It’s like being in a National football team, driving for Ferrari is like being in the Italian football team or playing for Selecao. You have to be prepared.”

After the accident in 2009, did your priorities in life change?
No absolutely not. Only that now I value life more. Because you always think nothing can happen to you and then…”

Stefano Domenicali said that he always considered you as a world champion after 2008. Did you sense that?
“100% yes. I deserved the title, taking into account the season and everything that happened…”

Sebastian Vettel took his fourth title this year: are those titles more down to him or his team?
“It is 100% down to him and his car. Because it’s true he drives the quickest and most consistent car. But then it’s he who manages to extract its potential, who takes pole, who puts 6 tenths over on everyone, including his team-mate! He’s a fantastic driver.

Let’s play at defining the men who have been your bosses, starting with Luca di Montezemolo.
“He is a big hearted person, and an able promoter. He knows how to describe and sell the idea of Ferrari. He is the right man for the job of president and I’m not just talking about the racing. He has an enormous aptitude for representing the company.”

Jean Todt.
“My best teacher. I first knew him when I was 19 and he has been the most important person in my career.”

Stefano Domenicali.
“Definitely a friend, we have grown up together at Ferrari.”

Rob Smedley, his race engineer.
“He has played an important role in my career. When I first raced for Ferrari my race engineer was Gabrielle Delli Colli, but things didn’t go as they should have done and so I chose Rob who was there at the start and was with the test team (he came from Jordan, Editor’s note.) He knows me 100%.”

You have had many team-mates, which was the strongest?
“Fernando. Schumacher was as quick, but in terms of intelligence, Alonso is better because he manages to put everything together perfectly.”

Ferrari started 2013 strongly but then it stalled.
“At the start of the year, the car was competitive, but the mistake was that we didn't manage to develop it as we should have done and as others did. The performance difference in this final part of the championship is down to a car that was not developed in the right way.”

Are you already thinking what you will do after F1?
“I love racing, it’s part of my life and makes me happy. Maybe after F1 I’ll try my hand at some other category.”

Which ones would you like?
“DTM or Brazilian Stock Cars.”

Webber has decided to race in Prototypes?
“I have no experience of endurance racing, however if they managed to get more top teams involved it could become interesting.”

New caterham concept debuts at Singapore GP

• First glimpse of new road model to arrive in 2014
• Co-designed and developed by the complementary divisions of the Caterham Group
• Styling and engineering concepts reflect direction for future Caterham models

Caterham Cars has today unveiled the AeroSeven Concept at the SingTel Singapore Grand Prix – an exciting new performance concept road car.

As the first model designed with significant input from all of the Caterham Group’s specialist business arms, the AeroSeven Concept signals the brand’s intentions in terms of product engineering processes, speed to market, as well as a hint to its styling direction for future models, including the all-new sportscar being developed in conjunction with Renault and due for release in early 2016.

The AeroSeven Concept, which draws heavily on methods used by the F1 team, will be the first ever Caterham model to be fitted with traction control. Thanks to a newly developed Caterham Engine Management System, drivers will be able to enjoy fully-adjustable traction and launch control functionality.

Based on an updated interpretation of the highly acclaimed Seven CSR platform, the carbon-fibre bodied concept vehicle, which will reach 100kph (62.5mph) in under 4 seconds, will initially draw its power from the normally-aspirated, EU6-approved, 240ps (237bhp) engine developed by Caterham Technology & Innovation for the recently launched Caterham Seven 485. Other engines are also being assessed for suitability.  

The AeroSeven Concept is stacked with race car-inspired features, including aerodynamic styling, an exclusive steering wheel with driver-focussed functionality, and an intuitive fully active Graphical Display Unit (GDU).

Graham Macdonald, Managing Director of Caterham Cars, said: “Over the coming years, we will be expanding our range of sportscars as we look to meet the differing needs and desires of potential customers – from the lifestyle customer to the ultimate thrill-seeker. The AeroSeven Concept is the first model in that journey.”

Delivery of the production version of the concept model will begin in autumn 2014.

Exterior

It is in the car’s full bodywork styling that the most striking differences to past Caterham products lies.

The stunning design of the two-seater balances function and form to increase downforce while vastly improving the drag coefficient; the new body shape also imparts subtly different handling characteristics to complement the revised chassis.  

Using inputs from Caterham F1 Team performance director, John Iley, and the CTI design team, the fundamental shape of the car was created. Ongoing optimisation continues to take place using Computational Fluid Dynamics expertise from the F1 aerodynamic group, in conjunction with circuit and wind tunnel testing.

The AeroSeven Concept incorporates a completely new rollover structure, to aid safety and improve aerodynamic performance and enhance aesthetics.

At each corner, the AeroSeven Concept will sit on Avon’s acclaimed CR500 tyres, the motorsport-inspired performance rubber that is also the OE fit on a number of Caterham’s high performance-orientated Sevens.

Powertrain

Achieving a delicate balance between inspiring performance and stringent EU6 emissions regulations, the 240ps (237bhp) Ford Duratec-based engine which will power the vehicle initially delivers its peak power at 8,500rpm, helping to propel the AeroSeven Concept to 100kph in under 4 seconds.

The engine – which also powers the European-homologated Caterham Seven 485 – is one of the world’s highest revving EU6-compliant engines. The two-litre unit is mated to Caterham’s six-speed manual gearbox driving the rear wheels.

Over the coming months, project engineers will be assessing a number of powerplant options for the final production version.

Dynamics

With expertise drawn from each corner of the Group to develop the bold AeroSeven Concept, the new car features a number of exclusive technologies and attributes not seen on any previous Caterham.

Based on the acclaimed Caterham Seven CSR chassis – featuring fully independent rear and F1-style inboard (pushrod) front suspension – new dampers, springs and anti-roll bars harmonise the car’s aerodynamic characteristics to deliver Caterham’s legendary agility and handling finesse. 

Driver focussed chassis control systems debuting on the AeroSeven Concept include Caterham’s fully variable traction and launch control functions. Caterham is also analysing the feasibility of using Bosch’s race-derived anti-lock braking system.

The Caterham Engine Management System is completely adjustable via steering wheel mounted controls. The system, which can be completely disengaged, has been developed by Cateham Technology and Innovation to enhance the AeroSeven Concept’s performance while giving complete control to the driver.

Interior

Inside, more innovations give a firm nod towards Caterham’s future ambitions.

A brand new fully active graphical display unit (GDU) developed by Caterham Technology & Innovation integrates all display and instrumentation in a high-resolution, centrally mounted unit. It displays information such as engine speed, gear selection, vehicle speed, traction and brake  settings, fuel and oil levels in a smart, intuitive ‘next-generation’, real-time 3D rendered display.

Additionally, the race-inspired steering wheel incorporates ‘Road’ mode, ‘Flash-to-Pass’ and ‘Pit Lane Speed Limiter’ functions.

The car’s default setting is ‘Race’ mode, the reverse of even the most track orientated vehicles. When the steering wheel-mounted button is depressed, ‘Road’ mode is engaged, altering the engine’s character by reducing peak power through a reduced rev limit.

The manufacture and tooling of components for the AeroSeven Concept will be split between Caterham Technology & Innovation in Hingham, Norfolk and Leafield, Oxon, Caterham F1 Team’s base. Production models will be constructed at the Caterham Cars factory in Dartford, UK. 

Ferrari 458 Speciale joins 458 range of stunning cars.

The 458 Speciale joins the Ferrari range alongside the 458 Italia and 458 Spider and, like all special-series Ferraris, is aimed at a specific kind of owner, in this case those looking for an even more focused sports car that offers extreme driving emotions.

Whether on the road or on the track, drivers will feel immediately at one with the 458 Speciale thanks to the speed with which it responds to every input and the consequently natural control that it offers, even in extreme manoeuvres. This finely-tuned handling balance enables the car to reach the highest performance levels of any Ferrari V8.

Ferrari’s core engineering philosophy centres around pushing the envelope with each new model whilst maintaining the innate chassis balance and handling that ensures that even non-professional drivers can extract maximum performance and driving pleasure.  With the new 458 Speciale all clients will be able to drive on the limit on the track as well as experience the exhilaration of genuinely sporty driving even at lower speeds on demanding roads.

The new berlinetta is, in fact, the result of the search for extreme technology, driving thrills and performance, with the application of advanced technical solutions for the powertrain, aerodynamics and vehicle dynamics. Those achievements set it apart from the 458 Italia from which it is derived, to an extent unprecedented in the previous Challenge Stradale and 430 Scuderia special series.

The 458 Speciale’s performance is exceptional across the board, thanks to factors such as an extraordinary weight-power ratio of 2.13 kg/cv, 0-100 km/h longitudinal acceleration in 3 seconds, lateral acceleration of 1.33 g and a Fiorano lap time of 1’23”5. The 458 Speciale is an extremely entertaining car to drive even in less extreme situations, too: its unparalleled agility, in fact, is reflected in a response time to commands of just 0.060 seconds.

POWERTRAIN

The 458 Speciale’s mid-rear-mounted 4497 cc GDI engine is the most powerful naturally aspirated Ferrari 8-cylinder ever developed, punching out 605 cv at 9000 rpm and maximum torque of 540 Nm at 6000 rpm, while its record 135 cv/l specific power output is also the highest ever achieved by a naturally-aspirated road-going engine.

F1 technology transfer to the 458 Speciale was of fundamental importance to its development, including the production processes. The engine is produced in the factory’s in-house foundry using the same machinery and processes as employed by the F1 team for complex components with the extreme structural and dimensional characteristics needed for a naturally-aspirated engine capable of hitting 9000 rpm.

To achieve these results, Maranello’s engineers have maximised the 458’s V8 potential, carrying out detailed refinements to all the components to optimise combustion, volumetric and mechanical efficiency.

Maximum combustion efficiency is guaranteed by a highly evolved knock control system which senses the ionisation across the spark plug gap thereby optimising combustion across the entire rev range.

The other main challenge aside from boosting power was to improve torque across the entire power curve. This involved increasing the compression ratio to an exceptional 14:1, the highest value ever achieved by a naturally-aspirated V8, which was achieved by modifying piston geometries.

The fluid-dynamics of the combustion chamber were revised to optimise both the intake and exhaust phases. The intakes feature new geometry, both with regard to the manifolds and the cylinder heads, with shorter inlet ducts (-10 mm) in the former instance, and in the latter a higher valve lift (+5%).  A new cam profile not only increases valve lift but also helps reduce average pressure during the pumping cycle.

The 458 Speciale’s increased power and torque are also the result of redesigning various engine components and reducing internal friction. The pistons are made from a new material that reduces overall mass.New materials were also used for the con-rod bushings while specific heat treatment (DLC: Diamond-Like Carbon) on the piston pins makes for greater fatigue and wear resistance.  The crankshaft was also redesigned to optimise and improve lubrication of the main bearings in all conditions of use.

Around 8 kg was also slashed off the engine’s overall weight by the redesign of the intake (carbon-fibre plenums and air filter box as well as shortened inlet ducts) and exhaust (in aluminium) systems. Once again Ferrari drew heavily on its extensive F1 experience, particularly with regard to the intake system, which now has a new carbon-fibre plenum and filter box, new materials for the pistons and con-rod bearings.

AERODYNAMICS

One of the car’s main characteristics is new Ferrari-patented mobile aerodynamic solutions at the front and the rear of the car which ensure that different aerodynamic configurations can be adopted in cornering, where maximum downforce is essential, and on straights where, instead, drag must be reduced to a minimum.

The 458 Speciale has an excellent downforce (Cl) value of 0.53. Thanks to the aforementioned active aerodynamics, the latter does not penalise the Cd which is just 0.35.

Of particular note are the innovative solutions adopted at the front of the car, with two vertical flaps in the centre and the horizontal flap below them. At relatively low speeds, the vertical flaps are closed, channelling air into the radiators to guarantee the necessary cooling for the engine. However, at speeds in excess of 170 km/h, the flaps open, reducing the volume of air flowing into the radiators, thereby cutting drag. At speeds of over 220km/h the horizontal flap lowers to balance downforce between the front and rear axles, leading to a 20 per cent shift in overall downforce towards the rear.

The turning vanes at either side of the front bumper slow the air flow which increases downforce, thereby shifting the aerodynamic balance 4 per cent over the front. Thanks to their shape, the aerodynamic fins ahead of the rear wheels increase downforce very much in the same way as the front turning vanes.

The rear spoiler has a larger surface area and more pronounced shape which has improved the efficiency of the underbody, increasing downforce. Moving the position of the tailpipes also allowed a new diffuser to be designed which optimises the extraction capacity of the underbody.  The rear flaps have two different configurations: raised for high downforce and lowered to minimise drag. Sophisticated sensors and a specific algorithm allow the flaps to be lowered by as much as a 17° angle, thereby stalling the diffuser and reducing Cd by 3 points.

DYNAMICS

The 458 Speciale’s dynamic behaviour guarantees maximum driving emotions in all situations, allowing drivers to match and improve their own limits with ease and delivering an intense driving experience even at lower speeds.

Nimble and responsive, the car is at its best over really twisty routes with demanding switchbacks and camber changes. New technical features have not only improved the 458 Speciale’s lap time over single laps, but also the repeatability of that performance on subsequent laps without needing to be a professional driver, offering unprecedented levels of driving pleasure.

Side Slip Angle Control (SSC)

The 458 Speciale sees the introduction of Side Slip Angle Control (SSC) for more effortless car control on the limit, thereby greatly enhancing driver enjoyment.

Thanks to sophisticated new software, which computes lateral acceleration, yaw angle, steering wheel angle and speed,  SSC carries out instantaneous analysis of the car’s side slip angle, comparing it with reference data, thereby allowing smooth, controllable oversteer, and optimising both torque management (via F1-Trac traction control) and differential torque distribution between the two driven wheels (via the E-Diff electronic differential) for maximum vehicle response times.

With the Manettino set at RACE or CT OFF, the 458 Speciale will then make the most of available grip for improved acceleration out of corners, greater ease and control on the limit, and more consistent performance.

Also available on request is an advanced telemetry system which records data from track sessions which can then be accessed directly through the multimedia menu or via an external device such as an iPad or laptop. The system uses a series of high-precision GPS antennae installed in the car to pinpoint its position on a pre-loaded circuit or a recordable route. At the end of the session, the Virtual Track Engineer helps drivers analyse their performance, highlighting the main critical errors (e.g. braking too early or too late).

Braking system

To cope with the demands of the car’s increased performance, all of the components in the Brembo braking system have been evolved from the solutions introduced on the LaFerrari. The 458 Speciale sports Extreme Design calipers, new generation HT2 discs with a higher percentage of silicon, and smaller front pads made from HY hybrid material for improved heat dissipation which is also boosted by special channels in the bodywork and is crucial in extreme driving situations.  The result is shorter stopping distances (100 – 0 km/h in 31 m) without any compromises in weight, and more consistent performance under severe use.

Tyres and wheels

Part and parcel of the Speciale’s development included Michelin Pilot Sport Cup2 tyres which were specifically honed for it in an intensive collaboration programme involving lengthy track tests and simulator sessions.

Specially made for the 458 Speciale, they feature a compound obtained using specific additives to boost performance over a single lap in the dry as well as improving performance consistency over multiple laps. They also deliver 6 per cent more grip, which also translates into better grip even in the wet.

The forged 20” wheels feature a new design, resulting in a weight reduction of over 12 kg.

Suspension

Thanks to being very flat through corners, the 458 Speciale is extremely efficient and satisfying in faster, sharper, more challenging changes of direction. This is due partly to its Frequency-Shaped SCM-E (Frs SCM-E) dampers which have twin solenoids, new CPU and new software that modifies the magnetic field every millisecond. The result is a much faster response and more precise body control.

These technical features guarantee exceptionally fast response to inputs from the road or the steering (0.060 s) and mean the car can deliver 1.33 g of lateral acceleration, a combination that ensures a genuinely extraordinary experience behind the wheel. The car, in fact, responds instantaneously and is easy to drive on the limit in all types of situations.

Soundtrack

Like the rest of the car, the 458 Speciale’s soundtrack is both seductive and uncompromising, thanks to unprecedented intensity inside the cabin as well as outside. The position of the tailpipes lends the V8 the full-bodied low frequency soundtrack typical of Ferrari’s sportiest engines while the configuration of the silencers is designed to guarantee maximum intensity and exceptional clarity. The immense power and full-bodied nature of the sound inside the cabin were achieved by redesigning the inlet tract.

Gear-shift strategy

The F1 dual-clutch transmission now features a new control logic that delivers an even keener sense of urgency during gear shifts.  The car feels much sportier as it shifts up through the gears, with response time to commands more prompt than ever, thereby guaranteeing 40 per cent faster longitudinal acceleration with engine revs adapting 20 per cent more rapidly. Conversely with the Fast-Down Shift strategy, when down-shifting, the transient time required for engine revs to match the gear ratio is 44 per cent faster.

DESIGN

Exterior

Aerodynamic requirements guided the work of the Ferrari Styling Centre which collaborated on the project with Pininfarina to sculpt forms that are more performance-oriented than ever, balancing aerodynamic requirements while staying true to Ferrari’s aesthetic philosophy.

Most of the bodywork panels have been redesigned without modifying either the passenger cell or the signature design features of the 458 Italia. The thickness of the glass used has been reduced to cut weight, while the rear windscreen is now a Lexan© panel.

The composite bumpers have been redesigned and the front bonnet now features two deep air outlets to channel away the air exiting the radiator.

The air outlets to the side of the headlight assemblies now also include three louvers reminiscent of Ferraris of the past, from the 250 GTO to the F40. The rear features a Kamm tail with a full-width grille and twin exhausts.

Interior

The cockpit features a distinctly racing-inspired atmosphere, with simplicity the order of the day. Lightweight exclusive technical materials, such as Alcantara and carbon-fibre, are used extensively but meld seamlessly with the superb craftsmanship and sophistication typical of all Ferrari interiors, courtesy of exclusive details, contrasting hand-stitching, aluminium triangular-pattern tread plates and sills with a pewter grey finish, and particularly fluidly sculpted door panels.

The glove compartment on the dash has been replaced with convenient odds and ends pockets on the tunnel and doors. This has significantly streamlined the volumes under the dash adding practical padding at knee level.

Onboard ergonomics are absolutely functional with all controls clustered around the driver and on the steering wheel. This concept has been further enhanced by the use of the iconic bridge, a carbon-fibre wing that extends over the central tunnel section, putting the F1 gearbox controls at an ideal angle to the driver. There is also a comfortable leg rest cushion on the driver’s side of the tunnel.

The Sabelt seats have carbon-fibre shells and boast excellent side bolstering thanks to an ergonomic design which also helps contain weight.   The shoulder-rests are trimmed in Alcantara for improved grip while seated and the backrests are padded with a breathable 3D fabric to guarantee excellent air circulation and comfort.  

The 458 Speciale is being unveiled in an unusual red livery featuring a blue and white central stripe inspired by the historic NART (North America Racing Team) livery which is available on request. Characterised by five exceptionally slender spokes, its newly designed forged wheels are available in gold, dark grey and black.

458 Speciale Technical Specifications

Engine

Type V8, 90° - Direct Injection - Dry Sump
Bore and stroke 94 x 81 mm (3.7 x 3.2 in)
Overall displacement 4497 cm3 (274.4 cu in)
Compression ratio 14.0:1
Maximum power** 445 kW (605 cv) at 9000 rpm
Specific power output 135 CV/l (1.62 kW/cu in)
Maximum torque 540 Nm (398 lb ft) at 6000 rpm
Maximum revs (limiter) 9000 rpm
Dimensions and weight

Length 4571 mm (180.0 in)
Width 1951 mm (76.8 in)
Height 1203 mm (47.4 in)
Wheelbase 2650 mm (104.3 in)
Front track 1679 mm (66.1 in)
Rear track 1632 mm (64.3 in)
Dry weight*   1290 kgf  (2844 lb)
Kerb weight* 1395 kgf (3075 lb)
Weight distribution 42% front, 58% rear
Weight/power ratio 2.13 kg/cv
Fuel tank capacity 86 l (22.7 US gallon)

FRANKFURT - Infiniti

• Vision of Infiniti’s future premium compact model
• Start of Sales for all-new Q50 in Europe begin November 2013

Infiniti today revealed the next step in its strategy to expand into new premium segments with the debut of the Q30 Concept at the Frankfurt Motor Show.

Infiniti Q30 Concept

The sleek, seductive Q30 Concept is the design vision for a compact Infiniti vehicle with a contemporary, individualised character for a new generation of premium customers. The global compact premium segment is forecast for significant growth with the entry of young-minded affluent customers.

“We are becoming the younger, trendsetting brand, more relevant and more exciting,” said Johan de Nysschen, President of Infiniti Motor Company, Ltd. “Infiniti
Q50, and now the Q30 Concept, deliver on this promise.”

De Nysschen was joined by Alfonso Albaisa, the brand’s Executive Design Director, who described Q30 Concept as a vehicle defying categorisation. A unique blend of features reminiscing of a coupe, a hatch and a crossover, the Q30 Concept is designed to appeal to younger customers who are less likely to follow tradition and desire to disrupt convention to create their own unique experiences.

By the end of this decade, Gen X and Gen Y will represent 80 per cent of buyers in the premium segment, bringing new, more contemporary expectations for premiumness.

Infiniti designers had the freedom to explore bolder, even more sensual sculpting, enhanced muscularity and playfulness, reflecting Infiniti’s approach as the seductive alternative to traditional premium automobile brands.

Infiniti Q30 Concept is the design precursor for Infiniti’s future compact premium entry. Infiniti has previously announced plans to produce a compact model in Sunderland, United Kingdom, starting in 2015.

In addition to unveiling the Q30 Concept, de Nysschen announced the start of sales for the all-new Infiniti Q50 sports saloon in Europe. The vehicle will go on sale as of mid-November.

During today’s press conference, de Nysschen also presented Infiniti’s Director of Performance, three-times Formula One world champion Sebastian Vettel, a special helmet to use in testing engineering prototypes of the future compact premium model – the first Infiniti model he will influence from its inception.