The New Brabus Mercedes-Benz SL

Rejuvenated by a substantial model update the fifth generation of the Mercedes SL now starts yet another chapter in the unparalleled success story of the popular Mercedes roadster. The corresponding exclusive sport program comes from BRABUS. Powerful increased-displacement engines with up to 730 hp (720 hp SAE net) / 537 kW of power, a striking designer suit, high-quality light-alloy wheels with diameters of up to 20 inches, professional suspension tuning and custom interior design: The BRABUS program leaves nothing to be desired.

The top-of-the-heap BRABUS power source for the SL 600 is the BRABUS SV12 S Biturbo engine, developed originally for the BRABUS ROCKET, the world’s fastest sedan. 730 hp (720 hp SAE net) / 537 kW of power and a whopping peak torque of 1,320 Nm (973 lb-ft), electronically limited in the car to 1,100 Nm (811 lb-ft), are the result of numerous modifications. During the displacement increase from 5.5 to 6.3 liters the engine’s interior is completely reworked. In addition the engine is fitted with a more efficient turbocharging system and a stainless-steel high-performance exhaust system with metal catalysts. Power is transferred via a reinforced five-speed automatic transmission and a special BRABUS limited-slip differential that is available for all SL models.

A sprint time of 4.0 seconds from rest to 100 km/h (62 mph), 10.5 seconds to 200 km/h (124 mph) and – depending on final drive ratio and tire speed rating – an electronically limited top speed of 350 km/h (219 mph) make the BRABUS SV12 S Biturbo roadster one of the world’s fastest sports cars.

BRABUS tuning is also available for the SL 65: The BRABUS T 12 S performance kit increases power output by 40 hp (DIN and SAE net) / 29.4 kW. The BRABUS T 65 S power kit bumps power output to 715 hp (705 hp SAE net) / 526 kW and peak torque to 1,100 Nm (811 lb-ft).

The SL 63 AMG also receives some added power with BRABUS B63 S tuning. Sport air filter, high-performance metal catalysts and newly programmed engine electronics add 40 hp (DIN and SAE net) 29.5 kW to the power output of the fast-revving V8 engine, and increase top speed to 320 km/h (200 mph).

The four-valve-V8 engine of the SL 500 (US: SL550) with BRABUS 6.1 S displacement increase produces 462 hp (456 hp SAE net) / 340 kW of power at 6,200 rpm and a peak torque of 615 Nm (453 lb-ft) at 3,100 rpm. The BRABUS 4.0 displacement engine with 332 hp (327 hp SAE net) / 244 kW of power and 420 Nm (310 lb-ft) of torque is available for the V6 four-valve engines of the SL 280 and SL 350.

The stainless-steel BRABUS sport exhaust system with four chrome-plated tailpipes is a must for all BRABUS high-performance engines. But it is also the answer for all SL owners wishing for a sportier exhaust note and for a more striking rear appearance of their two-seater.

To add sporty emphasis to the elegant lines of the new Mercedes SL series, the BRABUS designers went into the wind tunnel to develop a strikingly styled aerodynamic-enhancement kit.

The front of the SL receives some added pizzazz with the BRABUS front apron that replaces the production bumper. It features LED daytime running lights as well as auxiliary high beams and fog lamps, and reduces lift on the front axle at high speeds.

The elegantly shaped BRABUS rocker panels each have three entrance lights integrated into their underside. The lights are activated with the keyless fob or by pulling on an inside door handle. The LED lights illuminate the ground on either side of the vehicle and help avoid unfortunate missteps into puddles or holes in the dark.

The BRABUS design package for the latest SL-class is rounded out by a rear component that integrates environmental lighting, a centrally mounted rear reflector and two cutouts for the sport exhaust system.

Just as important for a customized look are one-piece and multi-piece BRABUS Monoblock light-alloy wheels, which can be mounted on the new roadster in four different designs and with diameters of 17, 18, 19 and 20 inches. The largest possible tire/wheel combination on the new SL features BRABUS Monoblock VI, E or S wheels in size 9Jx20 in front with size 255/30 ZR 20 tires. The rear axle rolls on size 10.5Jx20 wheels with size 305/25 ZR 20 tires. BRABUS recommends high-performance tires from Pirelli and YOKOHAMA.

To further improve the already potent handling capabilities of the new Mercedes SL, BRABUS has developed special suspension solutions. For the SL 280 and 350 models with conventional suspension BRABUS offers its sport springs. For all SL models with ABC active suspension BRABUS has developed an electronic module that lowers the ride height by some 25 millimeters. Sport sway bars reduce body roll.

BRABUS high-performance brake systems for the SL-Class are available in four different versions. The largest one features vented and cross-drilled front discs measuring 375 x 36 mm (14.8 x 1.4 inches), and 12-piston fixed calipers. The rear discs measure 355 x 28 mm (14.0 x 1.1 inches) and come with six-piston fixed calipers.

BRABUS also customizes the interior of the two-seater by upping the level of luxury. The list of products includes scuff plates with illuminated BRABUS-logo, an ergonomically shaped sport steering wheel with shift paddles, and an exclusive BRABUS custom interior crafted from an exquisite combination of especially soft yet durable BRABUS Mastik leather and Alcantara.

The New Ford Mustang Shelby GT500KR

Ford and Shelby Automobiles are at it again, this time in celebration of the fortieth anniversary of the 1968 Shelby Cobra GT500KR. Unveiled at the 2007 New York International Auto Show, the 2008 Shelby GT500KR — the most powerful Mustang to date — will once again mark Mustang as 'King of the Road.'

"I'm proud to once again be a part of an historical moment, bringing back the 'King of the Road' Mustang, and collaborating with Ford SVT and Ford Racing" said Carroll Shelby. "I'm committed to continuously upping the ante when it comes to performance, and it's great to be doing it with Ford." "The return of the Shelby GT500KR further establishes Mustang as the true king of the pony car segment," said Robert Parker, manager of Ford Car Brand. "With the unveiling of the new KR we are staying true to the promise we made our loyal Mustang fans to continue Mustang's prowess by bringing new, exciting and more powerful Mustangs to market."

Forty years ago, at the 1967 New York Auto Show, Ford introduced the most powerful Shelby Mustang ever. Like every Mustang that bore the name 'Shelby,' the GT500KR carries with it its own unique story.

The 1968 Shelby Cobra GT500KR was a mid-year introduction, based on the 1968 Shelby GT500. Ford added 'Cobra' to the Shelby's moniker to help usher in the beginning of a new performance era at the company. The Cobra name referred to the new 428 Cobra Jet V-8 that was planted under the KR's custom fiberglass hood. It was the engine that would once again vault the Mustang to the head of the pack.

The KR's 5.4-liter V-8 Gets the Royal Treatment

Just like its namesake, the 2008 'King of the Road' packs a walloping dose of Ford performance power under its massive composite hood scoops. The Ford SVT-engineered 5.4-liter supercharged V-8 is treated to a Ford Racing Power Upgrade Pack that boosts horsepower to an estimated 540 and torque to 510 ft.-lbs., thanks to revised ignition and throttle calibration and a cold air intake system that replaces the stock unit.

Calibration modifications include advancing the ignition timing as well as re-mapping of the electronic throttle settings to provide quicker throttle response for better off-line and mid-range acceleration. Increased throttle response will be met with a sharper roar from the Ford Racing-inspired exhaust system.

Power is delivered to the rear wheels through a Tremec TR6060 six-speed manual transmission and 3.73:1 rear axle ratio, upgraded from the standard GT500's 3.31:1. Gear selection is courtesy of an all-new Ford Racing short-throw shifter making its debut on the KR. Topped with a white ball, the new shifter is 25 percent shorter than the unit on the GT500 providing for crisper, sharper shifts.

Ford SVT, Ford Racing and Team Shelby worked together to develop the KR's suspension tuning. Based on initial work by Ford Racing and the team at Shelby, often at Shelby's own facility on the grounds of Las Vegas Motor Speedway, Ford SVT chassis engineers will apply fine tuning techniques to prepare it for the streets.

"The production Shelby GT500 was maximized to deliver the perfect balance between ride and handling," said Jamal Hameedi, chief nameplate engineer, Ford SVT. "In that same ride versus handling continuum, the KR will lean heavier towards all-out handling while still making it drivable on the street."

Chassis engineers worked closely with the engine department in a holistic approach to the development of the KR, tuning the suspension to best optimize the engine enhancements.

"We aren't fixing our attention on one or two attributes, but working on the vehicle as a whole," stated Gary Patterson, vice president of operations for Shelby Automobiles. "The throttle response, power delivery, exhaust note, and handling should all gel together to deliver a total driving experience."

The GT500KR will feature unique spring rates, dampers, stabilizer bars, and strut tower brace, all designed specifically for the KR, to deliver the precision handling package.

2008 Ford Shelby GT500KR - Specifications and Design Highlights

• 5.4-liter supercharged V-8 producing an estimated 540-horsepower and 510 ft.-lbs. of torque
• Ford Racing Power Upgrade Pack featuring revised calibration and cold air intake system
• 6-speed manual transmission with 3.73:1 rear axle ratio
• Ford Racing performance exhaust system
• Unique performance suspension tuning: springs, dampers, and stabilizer bars
• Shelby-designed 'GT500KR' 20-inch wheels (18-inch version for production)
• Ford Racing short-throw shifter and front strut tower brace
• Unique carbon composite hood featuring classic Shelby 'KR' design
• Front brake cooling ducts
• 'Shelby' lettering across the front edge of hood and rear decklid
• 40th Anniversary badges on the front quarter panels
• Carroll Shelby signature embroidered headrests and floor mats
• Official Shelby CSM 40th Anniversary GT500KR dash plate

The New Alfa Romeo 8C Spider

Debuting at Geneva showroom is the captivating Alfa 8C Spider. Like the Alfa 8C Competizione, the Gran Turismo which received resounding global praise; the new "discovery" will be produced in a limited edition run of 500.
Elaborated by the Centro Stile Alfa Romeo, the new car re-affirms the brand's excellence in this sector, as shown by some Spider's being regarded among the most beautiful cars in global automotive history. Cars such as the Giulietta Spider from the 50's or the legendary Duetto made famous by "The Graduate" from 1967 with a young Dustin Hoffman. Today, it's the Alfa 8C Spider's turn to take centre stage and project into the future the values of technology and emotion which belong to the Alfa Romeo legacy.

Obviously, the new vehicle inherits all the winning features of the Coupè version. Starting with the two "sport seats" setup and the fascinating exterior lines, which characterized by sculpted and finely designed bodywork, "dress" the automotive and mechanical excellence of the model.

In detail, the marked dynamics of the vehicle are highlighted by the horizontal groove "built" into the bonnet at wheel level. The oversize wheels and powerful "muscles" of the rear mudguard accentuate the personality and force of the model, without diminishing the elegance of those fluid lines. Instead they highlight the formal beauty of the singular external features: the "teardrop" fog lights set like a precious jewel in the front mudguard, the front Led lights, a synthesis of technology and rationality, and the essential door handle.

Furthermore, in the front we can find the characteristic Alfa Romeo stylings, with a new interpretaion of the "whiskers" and shield. Without forgetting, that this innovative range anticipates the elements and proportions of the future Alfa Romeo cars, always with complete respect for the historical legacy of the brand.

It's worth underlining that to reach these top levels of areo-dynamic efficiency, solutions which don't limit themselves to the design of the form have been adopted on the Alfa 8C Spider. All the surfaces and profiles of the uprights and windows, together with the form and positioning of the rear-view mirrors, have been optimized using computer models and tests in wind tunnels and real-life environments. As a result, air flows round the vehicle following it's natural path, unhampered by corners and irregularities. The end result is a negative LC (lift coefficient) which like competition vehicles, contributes to stability at high speeds.

But the peculiarity of this vehicle, is the hooded top fitted with electro-hydraulic automatic control (controllable via a button on the dashboard). The hooded top of the Alfa 8C Spider is composed of two overlapping sheets: the external one is made with a multi-thread textile which can withstand the elements, whilst the interior has high sound-proofing qualities. Furthermore, the hooded roof-top, available in various colours, has been perfected aesthetically, aerodynamically and for acoustic comfort. It has also been perfected from a functional point of view, with specially developed film-reels to render more agile, rapid and secure any explanations of the functioning.
In the interior, the Alfa 8C Spider guarantees a sophisticated environment, thanks to the vast use of composite materials in the dashboard and internal panels, as well as the use of anatomical seats, produced in carbon fibres, that can be adjusted according to the physical characteristics of the driver (up to now, a feature only available to racing cars). Furthermore, for maximum possible personalization of the interior, the client can chose between different environments and aesthetic solutions. All distinguishable by the particular attention to detail and artisan workmanship: from the contrasting stitches, colour tone and exclusive matchings. The bucket seats are upholstered in Frau flower leather (an exclusive and innovative treatment of the weave, in which the leather is bound to a natural fibre, creating a look of great visual impact).

In analogous fashion to the interior, the same care has been taken in realizing the exteriors: from the alloy wheels to the brake calipers, every detail can be chosen to your particular design, because every Alfa 8C Spider can only look similar to itself. An unmistakable car made to measure for the owner's personality. The unique and un-repeatable Alfa 8C Spider announces the pleasure of a sporty drive with full respect for the brand's legacy.
Like in the best Alfa Romeo tradition, hidden under this pretty "dress" is the best of what's available in the field of mechanics and propulsions. Firstly, the Alfa 8C Spider has a rigid and light structure (the compact frame is made in steel for maximum torsion to guarantee a drive which is always precise and sure, whilst the body is in carbon fibre). We are dealing with a choice motivated by the need to reduce as much as possible the weight but also to optimize the centre of gravity for agility and drive-ability in the more demanding journeys.

Still under the banner of sophisticated technology, the Alfa 8C Spider adopts the new "8 cylinder mated to a 5-speed gearbox with 90°" and a capacity of 4691 cm3 which has been designed with one specific aim: guarantee extraordinary performances without relinquishing the fluidity of the gearshift or the ease of use in any driving context. Like so, a powerful and progressive propulsion is born with a top power of 450 CV at 7.000 rpm and a maximum torque of 7.500 rpm. This engine has been mated to a self-shifting 6-speed gearshift (with computerized selection of the gears via levers behind the steering-wheel), and a self-blocking differential unit.

As in the legendary Formula 1 vehicles from the 50's, the Alfa 8C Spider sports the Transaxle design which guarantees the best equilibrium in the partioning of weight. The propulsion is placed in the rear whilst the gearshift is placed behind along the differential and hydraulic motor unit. The Transaxle design foresees a tight connection between motor and gearshift, which is fitted with a self-blocking differential. The two groups are linked by a tubular element, at the interior of which rotates the transmission driving shaft: in this manner the load is distributed in an optimal manner between the front and rear suspension.

So much power can only be entrusted to an excellent braking system: the Alfa 8C Spider is fitted with carbo-ceramic Brembo (CCM), 380 mm in diameter on the front-wheels and 360 mm on the back-wheels. This solution guarantees a powerful brake action even in the most intense uses. The marked reduction in weight, in comparison to a traditional set-up, reduces the masses unsupported by the vehicle and so improves the dynamic performance and driving comfort. Furthermore, the mono-block calipers guarantee maximum rigidity and minimal deformation, given the high loads generated by the pressure of the pistons on the brake-linings.

Therefore, the Alfa 8C Spider "declares itself Alfa" all the way, confirming control and driving pleasure with no compromises. Since always, gear comfort and dynamic performance are qualities specific to Alfa Romeo cars: in this case they have become veritable strong points. Thanks to for example, the suspensions which foresee a high wishbone suspension with brackets and uprights in forged aluminium, that act as a supplementary strut for alignment control.

Contributing also to the brilliant road control are specially developed 20" tyres to insure excellent performance, the tyres have a: 245/35 front-suspension and a rear-suspension of 285/35. Fitted on perforated rims in fluid moulded aluminium to ensure lightness and maximum brake ventilation efficiency. Lastly, the Alfa 8C Spider uses an evolved VDC Alfa Romeo traction and stability system, which ensures the driver feels at one with his car.

The New Ford Mondeo

The distinctive, all-new Ford Mondeo introduces new technical features to the Ford range and combines these with further improved driving dynamics and safety enhancements.

With three distinctively different bodystyles each demonstrating Ford of Europe's 'kinetic design' form language, plus a broad choice of trim series, technical features and a wide range of powertrains, the new Ford Mondeo brings new levels of refinement and comfort to its class, and to the Ford of Europe portfolio.

"The Ford Mondeo has always been acclaimed for its strong attributes, particularly its driving dynamics, safety performance and interior package," said Steve Adams, Vehicle Line Director, Large & Luxury Cars, Ford of Europe. "With this remarkable new model we've taken these qualities a step further and enhanced its performance in all of these areas as well as dramatically transforming its design and quality."

The new Ford Mondeo benefits from Ford Motor Company's Global Shared Technologies initiative, sharing many elements of its core architecture with the

Ford S-MAX - Car of the Year 2007 - and the new generation Ford Galaxy. A major advantage to developing vehicles in this way is that much of the development and testing techniques are shared with other models.

Fresh Face

Immediately obvious when seen from the front is the new Ford Mondeo's distinctive 'face', which is characterised by its trapezoid-shaped lower grille, a 'kinetic design' element that is increasingly recognised as part of the new Ford identity and which is already evident on several recent Ford models, including the S-MAX and the recently redesigned Ford C-MAX.

The large upper grille is flanked by prominent, swept back headlamps. Series differentiation is evident in the detail of the grilles with the Ghia and Ghia X models recognisable by the use of three horizontal bars featuring chrome accents in the upper grille, and the Titanium and Titanium X models featuring a silver-painted 'rectangular grid' design in the upper and lower grilles. Both high series have chrome surrounds on the upper and lower grilles. Ambiente and Trend models feature a 'rectangular grid' design in black for both grilles, with the upper grille surrounded by a bright chrome finisher.

Due to the location of the sensor, vehicles fitted with Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) exhibit the grille combinations as used on the Titanium model.

The headlamps comprise the largest surface area ever used on a Ford passenger car and feature distinctive styling cues of their own; special blue filters on the optional Halogen and Bi-Xenon Adaptive Front lighting System (AFS) headlamps give gem-like qualities even when the headlamps are on the lowest sidelight illumination.

The bonnet includes two shaped grooves in the surface which, in effect, create a 'power bulge', hinting at the dynamic qualities of the car. The additional bonnet height was viewed by the design team as a positive addition to the exterior design and adds to the car's muscular proportions in all three bodystyles.

Viewed from above, the Mondeo's front three-plane-plan view is immediately evident, providing a clear link between the production vehicle and the definitive expression of 'kinetic design' - the Ford iosis concept car - first revealed at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 2005.

The smooth swept-back 'chamfered' lines of the front bumper give the car a sense of presence, reduce the visual impact of the front overhang and serve to assist the driver when parking.

The front fog lamps are situated low down in the front bumper from Trend series upwards and mirror the line of the headlamps, which adds to the emotional experience of the new Ford Mondeo adding a touch of jewellery to the dramatic front end appearance.

Craftsmanship

New and premium levels of craftsmanship are evident throughout the new Ford Mondeo.

On Ghia and Titanium models a new woven headlining is used that, in a design choice to reflect the flow-through console, continues down the A-pillars to frame the front screen.

The careful use of 'piano black' interior styling accents also adds to the ensemble and creates additional interest and a high quality tactile feel to key touch areas. The flow-through centre console is finished in a variety of contrasting finishes depending on series and soft-touch material is used extensively throughout the cabin to emphasise the quality and refinement of the interior.

The primary shade of the instrument panel on Ambiente models is black, while on the other series customers can choose from either black, blue or biscuit colourways, complementing seat and trim options. Both instrument panel and doors feature additional trim accents according to series level, ranging from a dark shade of wood effect veneer on the Ghia and Ghia X models to brushed chrome on Titanium and Titanium X models.

Perfect Choice for Performance and Efficiency

New Ford Mondeo customers can choose from a wide variety of powertrains including frugal Duratorq diesels and the range-topping 220 PS 2.5-litre Duratec 5-cylinder petrol unit as used in the Ford S-MAX and based on the engine of the high-performance Ford Focus ST.

Key advancements in the powertrain line-up for the new Ford Mondeo include:

• Latest state-of-the-art clutch
• Dual-mass-flywheel matched systems technology
• Upgraded hi-tech electronic engine management systems together with an electronic throttle for precision torque control every millisecond
• Highly efficient integrated radiator/intercooler/condenser heat exchanger packages
• Duratorq diesel engines employ sophisticated high pressure multiple injection techniques to smooth out the combustion process, controlling cylinder pressure rise rates and providing the ultimate in smooth NVH and clean emissions performance

Mondeo petrol engine choice includes Ford's light and efficient 1.6-litre Duratec Ti-VCT technology petrol engine - used in Mondeo for the first time - equipped with a Ford Durashift iB5 5-speed transmission.

From late 2007, the range will be expanded with a new 2.3-litre Duratec HE 161 PS 4-cylinder petrol unit, coupled to the new Durashift 6-speed automatic transmission featuring a Sport mode. This changes gear at higher engine revs and also allows the driver to adjust their individual driving style by changing to manual mode for a more involved driving experience.

Additional petrol units are the 2.0-litre 145 PS unit mated to the MTX-75 5-speed manual transmission and the range-topping 2.5-litre 220 PS engine coupled to the M66 6-speed manual transmission.

The Duratorq diesel line-up starts with a refined 100 PS, 1.8-litre Duratorq TDCi coupled to Ford's Durashift 5-speed manual transmission. A 125 PS version of the 1.8-litre Duratorq TDCi is also available with a choice of the Durashift 5-speed or Durashift 6-speed manual transmission. Ford's popular 130 PS 2.0-litre Duratorq TDCi engine with standard Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) is also available and can be specified with a choice of Ford's Durashift 6-speed manual transmission or, from late 2007, the new 6-speed automatic transmission. A high output 140 PS 2.0-litre Duratorq TDCi engine with standard DPF is also available with Ford's Durashift 6-speed manual transmission.

Mondeo Safety Systems

The new Ford Mondeo features an impressive no-compromise array of active and passive safety technologies. The basic foundation for these features is the car's ultra-stiff body structure, which reduces the deformation of the passenger safety cell. The new Ford Mondeo also features a new airbag for the driver's knee area and a horizontal stroking steering column which together have further enhanced Ford's acclaimed Intelligent Protection System (IPS).

Safety is a key focus for Ford engineers when new models are developed. The target is to achieve optimised protection for all the car's passengers through the use of active and passive safety systems. Active safety systems are intended to aid the driver in avoiding a collision, while passive safety systems protect the passengers and help reduce and avoid injuries.

It is recognised that Ford's models are performing at their best ever level in independent crash testing in both left and right hand drive versions

"This is a family car and family cars need to have a level of safety that firmly and safely protects all people that sit in the car," said Gisbert Gäb, Manager, Vehicle Safety. "We employ a holistic approach and we have integrated safety into nearly everything in the car. For every detail we have endeavoured to make the safety as good as possible."

BMW M1 Concept

On the occasion of the 30th Birthday of the super sports car BMW M1 shows BMW Group design in the context of the Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este 2008, a tribute to this legendary super sports cars. The BMW M1 by Giorgio Giugiaro was a car of quality, a highly emotional vehicle, uncompromising in racing trimmed. This development has launched the BMW turbo by Paul Bracq, a revolutionary concept car, in addition to his groundbreaking, functional design and a variety of technology innovations barg. In line with these two unique vehicles was the BMW M1 Homage. A design study in honour of previous models - a sign of competence, creativity and potential of the BMW Group design team.

"For BMW tradition means always lived tradition. Inspiration from our own history and to be re-invent - just showing the BMW M1 Homage Car impressive manner." Dr. Klaus Draeger, Member of the Executive Board of BMW Group, development

A particular strength of BMW Group Design is strong in its own history to good use and actively engaged in shaping the future due to leave. The BMW M1 Homage is a design study in the tradition of a BMW turbo, is the contemporary view of a BMW M1 and the mid-engine concept. This demonstrates an emotional tribute design, technology shows and in the overall aesthetics of the vehicle.

The Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este offers the perfect environment for the BMW M1 Homage. Here automobile beauties of yesterday at the concept cars and design studies of tomorrow. In this tension between tradition and modernity granted the BMW Group design team insight into their own vision of a historically inspired automotive future.

Emotional Design in tension between tradition and modernity.

The BMW M1 Homage already known uses elements from the BMW design repertoire, interprets it and puts it into a new context. Its design tradition and modernity meet, he extended viewing habits with new design solutions, the BMW typical form expression. Was the BMW M1 the color contrast design main theme, with the BMW M1 Homage of the contrast in the design continued. Already familiar elements, such as the typical proportions, with exciting new lines, surfaces and details about a contemporary interpretation of the still outstanding BMW M1 combined.

Contrary to the strong wedge shape other mid-engine vehicles, the BMW M1 Homage is true to the BMW typical proportions. A relatively long bonnet, a clearly defined transition into the A-pillar and a stretched window graphic with Hofmeisterknick let in immediately as a real BMW. The horizontal lines reduces the optical focus of the vehicle and emits sovereignty. Body the BMW M1 has very smooth and athletic proportions, the surface design is still no explicit design theme - contrasting themes dominated graphics. Currently, however, in addition to the proportions especially the extraordinary The design of the high recognition value of a BMW vehicle. For some years all BMW models show a significant and unique form of language. The modeling of the land requires a lot of experience and craftsmanship at the highest level. Only through the combination of craftsmanship, state-of-the-art technology and a secure sense of the personality of each BMW model designers and achieve your sculptural the overall impact, a BMW unique. Consequently, the BMW M1 combines tribute to the proportions and graphic themes of the BMW M1 with a surface language of the new BMW design line. This combination gives the vehicle an exciting, sporting and authentic emotion.

The front design of the BMW M1 Homage takes many graphic design themes of the BMW M1: The color contrast between black areas and reset the car color, flat and small kidney and the "invisible" headlights. However, the front of the BMW M1 Homage an absolute first for BMW. Each element has a function. For example, the typical double kidney not only recognizable characteristic of the BMW brand, but combines solutions to the issues aerodynamics, cooling and security. The design of the headlights turn interprets the fold-out front lamps of the BMW M1. As the lights of the historical model, the BMW M1 Homage only visible in the on mode. In integrate themselves off the headlights discreetly in the front design and are "invisible" in the reset, black fugue - almost like the retracted headlights.

In the side of the vehicle, all the lines, surfaces and details the eye from the front on the long bonnet and clearly defined the A-pillars along and condense the center of the vehicle. Two expressive lines drawn from the front on the side of the vehicle, to the area of the engine compartment. The line begins disciplined and straight in the front, lower than optical focus of the BMW M1 Homage and stresses its low road. From the middle of the vehicle to break the lines, however. The power of design focuses on exactly the area where the power of the vehicle - in the engine. Strong and sensual turns accentuate the mid-engine concept of the vehicle. The design emphasizes the mechanics behind the engineering and motor competence of the BMW Group.

The roof line of the BMW M1 Homage runs flat, moves into the back inside and around the stern around. It draws a solid line and connects the two sides together vehicle. On this line will be held in the rear of the rear lights, the typical BMW emblem double its place.

"Engineering is beautiful - let's show it!"

The entire design is very functional, every detail has a purpose. Topics such as aerodynamics, cooling air safety management and give the BMW M1 Homage technical matter and only make him a real BMW. The kidneys design of the BMW M1 Homage met several functions: It is not only typical BMW identifier, but also part of the sophisticated aerodynamics, it serves the airflow for engine cooling and is also the front of a crash-Box -- similar to the monocoque chassis of a Formula 1 racing car.

Inspired by the aircraft, the entire vehicle also has a sophisticated air flow through the body. Thus, for example, below the roof line, in the black reset the gap behind the vehicle side window graphics, the cold air flow for the engine space. Small openings fins and deflect the airflow into the engine room and provide sufficient airflow.

Vision and inspiration.

"The BMW M1 Homage clearly shows the creativity and potential of the BMW design team. A project like this is a valuable source of inspiration for our daily work." Adrian van Hooydonk, head of BMW Automobile Design

The BMW M1 Homage is of great importance for the BMW Group design team, is his creation process but is symbolic of living tradition and innovative future. The vehicle is intended as a source of inspiration and motivation to do this, Withdraw into question and to rethink. The BMW M1 Homage honors the BMW Turbo and the BMW M1, with their design of their time far ahead. Originally only as a design study or small series planned, their influence even today - 30 years later - still clearly visible.