EcoBoost

News, Hypercar

Zenos reveals faster, more focused E10 R

A year after its first model entered production, Zenos Cars has introduced its quickest and most focused car to date: the E10 R.


With more power and torque, lighter components and uniquely tuned suspension, the E10 R has been developed, says Zenos, to deliver maximum performance and driving thrills both on track and on road.

A new Ford-sourced turbocharged 2.3-litre EcoBoost engine uses a bespoke ECU developed with partner Specialist Components to deliver 40 per cent more power (350 bhp) and 19 per cent more torque (475 Nm / 349 lb.ft). And with over 450 Nm of the total torque available between 3,000 and 6,000 rpm, the E10 R offers great flexibility for overtaking manoeuvres. 

Thanks to a power-to-weight figure of 500 bhp/tonne, the E10 R is expected to achieve zero to 60 mph (97 km/h) in 3.0 seconds with a top speed of 155 mph (249 km/h).

Inside, there's a shortened gear lever for the standard six-speed transmission and twin-skin composite seats fitted with four-point racing harnesses to enhance safety.

The brakes have also been uprated, with ventilated discs and uprated four-pot callipers fitted as standard, while changes have been made to spring and damper rates for dynamic improvements.

The 'standard' Zenos E10 R is priced from £39,995, but it will initially be available as an exclusive (15 examples only) Drive Edition, named after the company's design partners, priced at £43,995. 

The Drive Edition is distinguished by its unique black anodised finish of its aluminium spine, visible from inside the cabin, Satin Black front and rear splitters and side winglets, and Satin Black interior trim. 

Optional equipment on the E10 R, and standard on the E10 R Drive Edition, includes a new Charged Graphite paint finish, one-way adjustable dampers, quick-release steering wheel and uprated master cylinders.

The Drive Edition also gets an upgraded interior, with six-point harnesses, carbon leather trim and carbon seats all fitted as standard equipment. 

Orders are now being taken for the E10 R, which sits at the top of a three-model E10 family. The range begins with the 200 bhp E10, priced from £24,995, and also includes the 250 bhp turbocharged E10 S, priced from £29,995.

The Zenos E10 R will make its international debut at the Autosport International 2016 show, which will be held from 14-17 January at the NEC in Birmingham.

Estate Car, News

Ford Focus ST gets Mountune boost

Ford Focus ST buyers now have the option of even more adrenalin with a new performance upgrade from engine tuners Mountune.

Mountune's kit increases the power output of the Ford Focus ST's 2.0 EcoBoost engine from 250 to 275PS and, when fitted by a Ford dealer, does not affect the vehicle warranty.

The Mountune upgrade kit comprises a large capacity alloy intercooler, low-loss cast crossover duct with silicone hose, high-flow dual-entry air filter and specially developed performance-map calibration. Its fitment not only produces a 10 per cent increase in maximum power output at 5,500rpm, but also an improvement in torque from 345Nm to 400Nm at 2,750rpm.

Kevin Griffin, Ford of Britain sales director said: "The 2015 Focus ST 275PS upgrade is the latest addition to a wide range of Ford Performance parts and accessories from Ford dealers. It enables Focus ST owners to experience even more impressive performance, while offering the reassurance that the upgrade will not affect warranties."

Mountune's MP275 upgrade kit costs £1,195 including VAT plus fitting, which takes two hours. The Ford Focus ST 5-door with 2.0 EcoBoost engine at £22,495 in ST-1 specification includes 18-inch alloy wheels, ST body styling, Recaro sports front seats with DAB radio and Ford SYNC including Bluetooth and voice control.