New Porsche 718 Boxster unveiled

Porsche has revealed its new 718 Boxster and 718 Boxster S.

The new generation of the mid-engined two-seater is powered by a newly-developed range of flat four cylinder ‘boxer’ engines with turbocharging resulting in more power, more torque and greater efficiency. The new numbering from Porsche means the 718 sits beside the established line up with numbered identities – 911 Carrera, 918 Spyder, 919 Hybrid.

Porsche says the vehicle has been completely revised, except for the luggage compartment lids, the windscreen and the powered convertible roof. The front has a wider and ‘more purposeful’ appearance, with larger cooling air intakes for the new turbocharged engine. New design of the Bi-Xenon headlights feature integrated LED daytime running lights. The doors are now designed without door handle recess covers, while new 19-inch wheels are standard on the 718 Boxster S. 20-inch diameter wheels are available as an option. The rear has been redesigned with a much wider appearance – emphasised by the accent strip with integrated ‘Porsche’ badge - between the completely re-designed tail lights which are distinguished by three-dimensional LED technology and four-point brake lights.

Inside, a newly-designed dash panel frames the cockpit. In addition, the latest generation of Porsche Communication Management (PCM) with state-of-the-art touchscreen and mobile phone preparation included as standard. The navigation module is available as an option.

Developing 300 hp (220 kW) from its turbocharged 2.0-litre engine, the 718 Boxster S has a 2.5-litre engine, pumping out 350 hp (257 kW). Its greater power output is literally boosted by its use of a turbocharger with variable turbine geometry. The 718 Boxster – with optional PDK double-clutch automatic transmission and the Sport Chrono Package – sprints from 0 – 62 mph in 4.7 seconds (0.8 seconds quicker). The equivalent 718 Boxster S accomplishes this in 4.2 seconds (0.6 seconds faster). The top speed of the 718 Boxster is 170 mph, and the 718 Boxster S has a top speed of 177 mph.

Each 718 model is equipped with a six-speed manual transmission as standard. The Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK), which now features fuel-saving ‘virtual gears’ previously introduced on the 911 model series, is available as an option.

Porsche says the ‘considerable’ power gain of 35 hp (26 kW) compared to the previous Boxster models is matched by the ‘impressive efficiency’ of the new turbo engines - with fuel economy improvements of up to 13 per cent. The four-cylinder flat engine with PDK has a NEDC Combined fuel consumption figure of 40.9 mpg (5.1 mpg more than the previous model). In the 718 Boxster S, the 2.5-litre turbo engine with PDK returns 38.7 mpg Combined (4.3 mpg more than the previous model). Matching the more powerful engines is new suspension tuning and uprated brakes.

Available to order now, prices start at £41,739 OTR for the 718 Boxster and from £50,695 OTR for the 718 Boxster S

Vauxhall reveals GT Concept

Vauxhall has revealed its new GT Concept ahead of a Geneva Motorshow debut.

The brands vision of a future sports car is described as ’purebred, pared down, yet unashamedly avant-garde’. The GT Concept is even shorn of door handles and door mirrors, and features a front mid-engined, rear-wheel drive chassis that will ‘appeal to driving enthusiasts’.

The GT name mirrors that of the 1964 GT Concept, the first styling model to be produced by the Vauxhall Design and Engineering Centre in Luton which opened the same year. The 2016 concept pays homage to two significant motor show cars: the 1966 Vauxhall XVR  (Xperimental Vauxhall Research) and the 1965 Opel Experimental GT - particularly with the long bonnet and central dual exhausts. Fifty years later, the GT Concept has a red signature line that splits the vehicle body horizontally and distinctive red tyres – mounted on rims with a ‘roller-skate’ design – which are a reference to an Vauxhall/Opel motorbike from the 1920s – the Motoclub 500 – which sported red-coloured rubber.

The GT Concept’s front-mid engine configuration keeps the car’s centre of gravity low and central for ‘excellent dynamics’. Beneath its stretched bonnet is a turbocharged 1.0-litre, three-cylinder engine, based on the all-aluminium unit used in the ADAM, Corsa and Astra. Developing 145PS and maximum torque of 205Nm, the engine delivers drive to the rear wheels, via a six-speed sequential transmission operated by steering-wheel mounted paddle shift. Weighing under 1000kgs, the GT Concept accelerates from 0-62mph in less than eight seconds and on to a maximum speed of 134mph.

The GT Concept uses ultra-modern projection technology, with a three-dimensional beam which allows glare-free high-beam driving. Based on Vauxhall’s IntelliLux LED matrix lighting, first seen in the recently launched Astra, the GT Concept sees the intelligent lighting system’s next stage of development. The design of the lights is completed by the three-dimensional design of the tail lamps.

A key innovation is the cars large doors with integrated side windows that show a seamless transition from glass to painted surfaces. Both driver and front passenger gain access to the spacious interior after pressing a touchpad for the electric doors that is integrated in the red signature line of the roof. The doors open into the front arches, using a space-saving and patented mounting that allows a large opening angle for tight parking spaces in urban areas. Two cameras mounted behind the wheel arches offer enhanced visibility, especially in city driving. They transmit their images to two monitors on the left- and right-hand side of the cabin, rendering external mirrors obsolete. The windscreen flows into a glass panorama roof, affording occupants a similar experience to that of a targa-topped car, according to Vauxhall.

The Geneva Motorshow runs from March 3-13.

DS E-TENSE set for Geneva debut

DS Automobiles is set to pull the covers off a unique Supercar at the 2016 Geneva Motor Show next week.

The French brand will unveil the DS E-TENSE electric-powered sports car, which features a ‘striking appearance’ as well as hi-tech capability and ‘exceptional’ performance.

The all-electric concept silently produces 402hp with zero emissions. Measuring 4.72m long and 1.29m high, DS says its ambition is to create a high-performance electric GT car that brings together ‘state-of-the-art technology and avant-garde design’.

The new car's styling merges flowing lines with a silhouette of a grand tourer coupe - emphasised by a central chrome-plated spine and an exclusive metallic green ‘ametrine’ body colour. Removing the rear windscreen at the back allowed the design team freedom to mould the contours further and make use of digital rear-view technology.

The DS LED Vision headlamps are described as jewel-like in design. The daytime running lights – designed to look like beaded stitches, are a ‘nod to the world of high fashion’ says the French company. At the rear, the indicators integrated into the roof are inspired by the original DS from 1955.

On the inside DS says upholsterers took 800 hours to design, test and produce the interior, with a particular emphasis on the watchstrap style design on the seats and dashboard. Other features include the 'cold steel' used for the dashboard, creating a futuristic look, and the strongly marked tulip-shape of the steering wheel.

As a Formula E World Championship competitor, DS Automobiles has equipped its latest creation with a 100 per cent electric 402hp engine that produces 516Nm of torque, delivering propulsion that is clean, silent, but above all efficient and powerful offering 193 miles mixed cycle range (or 224 miles urban cycle).

The two-seater monocoque chassis is manufactured from carbon fibre and equipped with independent superimposed double wishbone suspension. As the batteries are located beneath the floor, the centre of gravity is low. Meanwhile, the streamlined silhouette, the carbon fibre diffuser and the flat underbody all contribute to its aerodynamic performance.

The Geneva Motor Show opens its doors on 3 March.

Mercedes confirms SLC pricing

Mercedes has confirmed its new SLC will cost from £30,495 OTR. 

The SLC, which replaces the SLK name, is available to order now with £30k getting you the entry-level SLC 200 Sport.

The new SLC is available with a choice of four engines, with the petrol line-up featuring a 2.0-litre motor producing 184hp (SLC 200) or 245hp (SLC 300 AMG Line £39,385 OTR). The SLC 200 is available as standard with a six-speed manual gearbox (150 g/km of CO2) or the optional 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission (137 g/km), while the SLC 300 comes with the 9G-TRONIC gearbox as standard (138 g/km).

The most fuel-efficient model in the range is the SLC 250 d (£32,995 OTR) which comes with a 2.1-litre diesel engine (204 hp), with CO2 emissions of 114 g/km.

Two model lines are available; the Sport and AMG Line, and these include standard equipment such as; re-designed halogen headlights with integrated LED daytime running lights; new sports exhaust system (standard with 9G-TRONIC on SLC 200 and SLC 300); sports pedals; LED tail lights; Active Brake Assist; Attention Assist; Active Bonnet; chrome-plated twin exhaust system; remote boot lid release; and Headlamp Assist. Sport models come with 17-inch five-spoke alloy wheels while AMG Line offers 18-inch AMG multi-spoke alloys. Inside, a light ‘carbon-grain’ trim comes as standard on the SLC 200, SLC 300 and SLC 250d, while the SLC 43 is available with dark carbon-grain trim.

Priced at £46,355, compared to £55,350 for the SLK 55 AM, the new Mercedes-AMG SLC 43 is powered by a 3.0-litre V6 biturbo engine and offers performance of 367 hp plus peak torque of 520 Nm: allowing it to sprint from 0 to 62 mph in 4.7 seconds, top speed is electronically limited to 155 mph. The SLC 43 comes standard with the 9G-TRONIC gearbox, enabling it to offer emissions of just 178 g/km – almost 20 g/km less than the previous SLK 55 AMG.

Standard equipment on the AMG SLC 43 includes AMG Performance steering wheel in nappa leather and DINAMICA combined with red contrast stitching; AIRSCARF neck-level heating; PARKTRONIC; LED Intelligent Light System; IWC analogue clock; AMG sports suspension; AMG sports exhaust system; AMG Handling Package; and AMG high-performance braking system with red–painted brake calipers.

Vauxhall teases new GT Concept

Vauxhall has revealed a teaser image of its new GT Concept car.

Set to be unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show, the company has released a two short films that reveal a little more of the car’s design. In the video, Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann, CEO of Vauxhall and Opel, opens a door to show the front of the 'purebred' GT Concept, with the words: ‘Don’t miss what happens next.’

Accompanying the film is an image of the GT Concept’s central double exhaust, and while Vauxhall says the car’s design is ‘in no way retro’, this feature was a highlight of concept cars from both Vauxhall and sister brand Opel in the mid-1960s. Vauxhall presented the XVR at the Geneva Show in 1966, and Opel the Experimental GT at Frankfurt the year before. According to Vauxhall, both were ‘ultra-modern, minimalistic and uncompromising, with a sculptural shape – a philosophy which also defines the design of the new GT Concept’.

As for the GT Concept’s red tyre, seen briefly in this latest film, it pays homage in an avant-garde way to the Motoclub 500, a futuristic Opel motorcycle from 1928 wore red rubber.

The Geneva Motor Show runs from 3rd to 13th March 2016.

James Bond’s Aston Martin DB10 up for auction

A unique Aston Martin DB10, made for James Bond in 'Spectre' is to be auctioned for charity.

The Aston Martin DB10 – the first bespoke car created for James Bond by Aston Martin – is to go under the auctioneer’s gavel at Christie’s in London, with proceeds donated to Medecins Sans Frontieres. The only car to date in the rarest DB lineage to be made available for private ownership, the auction offers a very rare opportunity to own a piece of automotive history with bids almost certainly to go over the £1-million mark.

The auction of the only DB10 to date to be made available for private ownership celebrates the release of the 24th Bond film ‘Spectre’ on Digital HD, Blu-ray and DVD with 24 special auction lots going under the hammer for charity, led by the DB10.

Celebrating the British brand’s half century of working with Bond, which started with the DB5, the DB10 gives a glimpse of the future design direction for the next generation of Aston Martins. Production of the DB10 was strictly limited to ten examples of the bespoke sports car which was developed and hand-built by the designers, engineers and ‘artisan craftspeople’ at Aston Martin’s Gaydon headquarters in the UK for the latest Bond film.

The DB10 features a 4.7-litre V8 petrol engine and six-speed manual gearbox, with Aston Martin saying it ‘has an estimated top speed of around 190 mph’. The car features an all carbon fibre exterior, while the interior has been handmade using fine luxury leathers, carbon fibre and aluminium.

Most of the DB10s were modified for use in the filming of Spectre, but the DB10 offered at Christie’s is one of only two “show” cars, which were left unmodified and used for display purposes. This DB10 took pride of place at the world premiere of Spectre at the Royal Albert Hall in London and has been signed by James Bond himself, Daniel Craig.

The auction will take place on 18th February at Christie’s King Street auction house in London.

Ford Focus RS production underway

The first all-new Focus RS has rolled off the production line in Saarlouis, Germany, signaling an increasing demand for performance cars across Europe, says Ford.

 The carmaker expects to produce 41,000 performance cars for Europe in 2016, up from 29,000 in 2015, representing an increase of 40 per cent.

The all-new Focus RS is among the models driving demand, along with the Mustang, for which Ford has taken more than 13,000 orders in Europe (2,650 in the UK), and the hot hatch ST versions of the Focus and Fiesta.

The Focus RS is one of 12 new performance vehicles Ford will bring to customers globally through 2020. Developed by a team of engineers in Europe and the US, it's powered by a special version of Ford's new 2.3-litre EcoBoost engine delivering maximum power of 350PS. This will enable the high-performance hatchback to get from 062 mph in 4.7sec, making it the fastest accelerating Ford RS model ever.

Since prices were announced in September, customers have placed more than 3,100 orders (2,300 of these in Britain).

"This will be a truly remarkable year for Ford performance cars, with unprecedented performance capability, as well as sophisticated powertrain and chassis technologies including the new Ford Performance All Wheel Drive system for Focus RS," said Joe Bakaj, vice president, Product Development, Ford of Europe.

New VLF Force 1 Super Car revealed in Detroit

VLF Automotive has pulled the covers off its new all carbon fibre-bodied sports car, the Force 1.

The American made two-seater is described as a high-performance, low-production sports car, manufactured in Auburn Hills, Michigan by the newly launched VLF Automotive - of which former Aston Martin designer Henrik Fisker is a partner and design chief.

VLF, established in 2015, is named after the founding members - former General Motors Vice Chairman Bob Lutz, manufacturer Gilbert Villarreal and entrepreneur and designer Henrik Fisker. The company has announced the production of 2 models in 2016 - the Destino V8 and Force 1 V10.

The exterior design of the Force 1 has 'classic American sports car proportions' with a long bonnet, short front overhang, long tail and pushed out wheels. “In the case of Force 1, there is an extremely pushed back green house,” Fisker explained. “The sculpture on Force 1 is like a family succession to the Destino, dramatic and powerful, relative flat surfaces on the high end of the body side, with lines full of tension, emerging onto a rounder lower section, where Force 1 has a large functional outlet." The car has one of the most powerful naturally aspirated road engines in the world, according to VLF, delivering ‘the best performance in its price class’. The 745hp, 8.4-litre V10 engine enables a 0-60mph time of 3.0 seconds flat.

The Force 1 incorporates downforce elements such as the deep front spoiler and aggressive rear diffuser in pure visible carbon fibre. At the top of the rear glass sits a unique rear wing spoiler also housing the in car Wi-Fi and third brake light. Both the front and rear signature Henrik Fisker wheels feature a concave section design to improve strength of the wheel and requiring less mass. The 21-inch wheels with wide high-performance Pirelli tires sits in ‘lean, sculptured, pronounced wheel arches’. The front features an aggressive grille housing the VLF logo in the centre and two ultra-slim lights sitting above the grille. The interior is described as luxurious, with hand stitched ultra-soft leather, Alcantara, suede with several other unique features, such as a champagne holder.

Production commences at the end of April 2016 in Auburn Hills and first customer deliveries begin in the third quarter of 2016, with the base price starting at $268,500 (£187,992). The Force 1 V10 will be produced in limited numbers with an initial production of only 50 units.

VLF is expected to have seven dedicated dealers with full service capability, throughout North America, and several international dealers appointed in 2016.

New Avatar sports car confirmed

British manufacturer Avatar have revealed a new Roadster.

The Devon-based track and race division of specialist car producer Marlin Sports Cars has developed the 250bhp 2.0-litre Ecoboost-engined Roadster to offer road and track day fans a ‘responsive, involving, lightweight car that offers plenty of scope to adjust and upgrade during ownership’.

Set to be fully unveiled this week at The Performance Car Show at Birmingham's NEC, the car’s 2.0-litre Ford engine sits behind the driver and is mated to a five-speed Porsche Boxster gearbox. The 0-60mph time comes in at 3.9 seconds while top speed is 150mph. Engineers also specified in-board adjustable suspension at the rear with Nitron dampers, Quaife LSD, Tilton pedal box and Hi-Spec brakes on the 700kg car. The Avatar Roadster will also be available in a 350bhp version that uses Ford’s 2.3-litre Ecoboost engine from the forthcoming Ford Focus RS and Mustang.

Starting with a clean sheet of paper, Avatar’s design team was able to create a custom laser-cut, tubular spaceframe chassis that sits the driver closer to the centreline of the car. “This arrangement not only offers better weight distribution and, we think, purer driving experience but also provides storage space alongside the driver for the optional ‘get me home’ roof,” said Dylan Popovic, Avatar designer and company racing driver.

The chassis, manufactured in-house by Marlin, is clothed in a sleek composite four-piece bodyshell - front and back sections can be removed in less than 30 seconds. The car’s aesthetics have been honed by ‘aero specialist’ Simon McBeath and confirmed by a string of class wins for the development mule running in the Castle Combe Sports & GT Championship. “We have completed over 1,200 laps at the demanding Castle Combe circuit to finesse and prove the quality of the Avatar,” adds Dylan. “Consumers expect to drive to a track day, thrash around all day and come home again without wielding the spanners. The Avatar was conceived with high quality components to do just that.”

Avatar says its back up and technical support is ‘just as comprehensive as the Avatar Roadster’s specification'. A pre-delivery Tailored session means each car leaves the factory corner-weighted and setup specific to the buyer’s weight, driving preferences and planned use. “We want to know each of our customers and their cars personally,” said Terry Matthews, Avatar founder, “Owners can pick up the phone to us any time and get one-to-one support”.

Aware that track day drivers are always keen to find a little more performance, customers can choose from a range of options to tailor the car for more serious track work or even competition. An unlimited mileage, three-year warranty, provides further peace of mind whilst the engine can be serviced at any Ford garage.

First customer deliveries are expected in May 2016, with the company hoping to build a run of up to 25 by 2017.

Jaguar unveils F-TYPE British Design Edition

The Jaguar F-TYPE British Design Edition

Jaguar has launched an exclusive British Design Edition of its F-TYPE sportscar.

Based on the F-TYPE S Coupe and Convertible, and featuring a range of visual enhancements and additional equipment, the special edition is offered either in an Ultimate Black finish, or in one of three colours from a palette inspired by the Union Jack: Caldera Red, Glacier White and Ultra Blue.

Further enhancements come from the Sport Design pack, Satin Grey 20-inch Cyclone wheels and discreet British Design Edition badges front and rear, with unique branding on the centre console, headrests and the stainless steel tread plates.

The Jet leather interior is finished with contrast stitching in a choice of three colours - Red, Ivory or Reims Blue - with carbon fibre trim around the centre console. Jaguar’s InControl Touch and InControl Touch Plus infotainment systems support a range of apps to improve driver connectivity, and are offered with upgraded Meridian audio equipment.

Power comes exclusively from the 380PS/ 460Nm supercharged 3.0-litre V6 petrol engine, matched to the eight-speed Quickshift transmission with all-wheel drive. 

The F-TYPE British Design Edition is available to order now at Jaguar UK retailers priced from £75,225 for the Coupe version and £80,390 for the Convertible.

Customer deliveries are set to begin in the Spring.

Revell Ford GT snap kits up for grabs at Detroit

Ford GT snap kits will be available to purchase through online stores and retailers starting in April

Kids can get their very first Ford GT when they stop by the Ford stand at the Detroit Auto Show in January. 

Ford is giving away Revell-built Ford GT model snap kits and will introduce a retail line in April. 

The auto show kit includes 14 pieces for easy assembly in just a few minutes, and will feature a unique auto show stamp on the bottom to signify the special edition. The retail model is more detailed; it has 28 pieces, takes 10 to 15 minutes to build, and will be widely available to purchase for $14.99.

“Our annual Revell Make ‘n Take model kit program has become a fun-filled auto show tradition,” said Mark Bentley, Ford Licensing manager. “Letting kids build their own Ford GT is a great way to introduce them to the Ford brand and create new enthusiasts.”

Ford has worked with Illinois-based Revell to build snap kits for motor shows and for retail sale since 2013. The licensing agreement started with Mustang, followed by a Raptor version. 

“We’ve always enjoyed building Ford products,” said Brian Eble, Revell’s Vice President of Marketing. “Ford’s iconic designs make them a great brand to replicate. From first time model builders to master builders; Ford products continue to be one of the most sought after subject matter for scale plastic model kits.”

Rinspeed to debut self-driving Etos at CES

For the first time ever, Rinspeed is to debut a concept car outside of its Swiss homeland, choosing the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas for the world premiere of its new autonomous Etos.

Rinspeed owner, Frank M. Rinderknecht, says: “The digital world will provide the major and above all the disruptive innovations in automotive engineering. That is why nowadays all major car manufacturers and suppliers are present at the CES Consumer Electronics Show.” 

Based on BMW i8 underpinnings with design by the specialist team at 4erC, the Etos is described as a sustainable but also a fast racer.

The coupe bodywork utilises lightweight materials with an aluminum front structure bonded to a carbon fibre passenger cell, topped off with smartphone-style Gorilla glass for the roof.

The Etos is fitted with an on-board drone complete with landing platform in the rear (also made with Gorilla glass), fitted with 12,000 individually controlled LEDs which can transform it into an electronic message board or a visual dancefloor. 

The drone itself can provide some very useful services, says Rinspeed, like picking up a bouquet of flowers ordered on the way home or shooting a selfie of your drive and streaming it live to your friends. 

The technical highlight in the interior is the folding and retracting steering wheel from ZF TRW, which disappears into the dashboard in a few seconds, creating lots of space in front of the driver who can then read a book in comfort or work in a more relaxed atmosphere. 

An intelligent infotainment experience, provided by Harman Connected Car technologies, gets to know the appointments, wishes and needs of the occupants and then proactively offers up tailored selection options accordingly.

This reduces the number of manual entries required but when necessary, the system responds to voice commands, gestures, touch input, controller or the push of a button. 

A total of eight HD exterior cameras provide 180-degree panoramic views in front of the vehicle and behind, acting as virtual exterior mirrors with an expanded field of vision and no blind spots. 

The Rinspeed Etos will make its global debut at the CES, from 5-8 January, 2016, as part of the HARMAN event in the Muse Hall of the Hard Rock Hotel in Las Vegas.

Its European premiere will follow at the Geneva Motor Show in March. 

Jannarelly reveals retro-styled sportscar

New Jannarelly car brand is centred on automotive emotions

All-new car brand, Jannarelly, is set to launch early next year with its first model, the Design-1 - a track-ready sportscar with a distinctly retro look.

Designer, Anthony Jannarelly, and Frederic Juillot, owner of Equation Composite, a company specialised in carbon fibre parts, have combined their skills and experience to create the all-new high-performance, customisable lightweight sportscar.

The Dubai-based Frenchmen own a Caterham and a Donkervoort respectively, and describe themselves as great admirers of ‘classic car design with timeless lines as well as the essence of the 60’s motoring era’. 

They began with a straightforward concept: A really simple and mechanical car with state-of-the-art components that can be customised until it reflects its owner.

The Jannarelly Design-1 is a rear wheel drive 2-seater roadster with a steel tubular frame and structural aluminium panels for the chassis. It is fitted with a mid-rear V6 DOHC 24-valve engine. Most of the body is made out of fibreglass and carbon fibre.

The Jannarelly brand is said to centred on automotive emotions, self-expression and creativity. Its whole purpose is to allow a great freedom in self-customisation and pure performance. The first model draws inspiration from the universe of Petrolicious, Jay Leno's garage and Magnus Walker. 

Jannarelly says that both the Design-1’s lines and its simple and flexible mechanical approach pay tribute to the 1960s, ‘the golden age of the sports car, when design and technology were in perfect sync, generating organic, feminine lines, naturally modelled.’

The first prototype is set for completion in early February and deliveries of a first series of 30 cars are expected to begin in the summer of 2016.

Lamborghini confirms track driving courses for 2016

Automobili Lamborghini has announced details of its programmeme of Esperienza and Accademia track driving courses for 2016, with locations in Europe, America, Asia and Australia.

The 2016 season will get under way in Europe, with the Winter Accademia on the evocative icy surface of Livigno, Italy, to be held in late February. Hot on its heels, the famous resort of Aspen, Colorado, is the venue for the American event.

Following the winter dates, the Phillip Island circuit hosts the first Accademia course in Australia. After the first leg at Italy’s Imola circuit, the Accademia will follow some important European rounds of the Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo one-make series, including the historic Nurburgring circuit, and Valencia, which is also the location for the race series’ world finals.

In the United States the Accademia will be held at the Laguna Seca circuit, while Las Vegas is the setting for the second edition of the Pilota Lamborghini course, dedicated to competitive racing.

The 2016 Lamborghini Esperienza calendar will also take in four continents, with more than twenty dates scheduled at some of the most prestigious circuits in Europe, the United States, Asia and Australia.

Lamborghini Esperienza is the first step for those who wish to get closer to the world of Lamborghini, providing an introduction to the Raging Bull brand and its legendary super sports cars. For the Imola Esperienza, activities include a visit to the Lamborghini factory and museum in Sant’Agata Bolognese (Bologna), as well as the track driving.

The Lamborghini Accademia offers fans the chance to drive on the track (Track Accademia) or on ice (Winter Accademia). Each Accademia offers two types of programme – intensive and advanced – giving the participants the opportunity to take their first steps towards the world of competitive racing. 

The course involves multiple training sessions during which drivers undertake various exercises including slaloms, acceleration, braking and oversteering.

Each track day is open to a maximum of 24 participants on the intensive course, and 20 on the advanced course. Drivers are divided into small groups to make the experience highly exclusive and personalised.

The most advanced stage of the Accademia course is the Pilota Lamborghini course, the first edition of which was held in November at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway. This new programme is for those with the desire to become a racing driver, through a series of tests which simulate a full-on competitive race weekend.

Over 2,000 attendees are expected at the Esperienza and Accademia courses during 2016. All participants will be able to put themselves to the test and perfect their driving aboard the Lamborghini Aventador LP 700-4, the V12 benchmark for luxury super sports cars, and the Lamborghini Huracan, in the Coupé, Spyder and 2WD versions.

The Esperienza and Accademia courses are part of the Lamborghini Squadra Corse programme, which since 2013 has offered an integrated approach to Lamborghini driving experiences, right through to the world of competitive racing with the Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo and GT3.

Like this year, in 2016 Lamborghini Squadra Corse will also select drivers from the Young Drivers and GT3 Junior Programme to participate as instructors at the Esperienza and Accademia events around the world.

New Lotus Exige Sport 350 unveiled

Lotus has revealed its new Exige Sport 350.

The new model is lighter and faster than ever before. With a focus on pure performance, the two-seater has been developed to deliver an ‘unrivalled experience’ for the driver, being sharper and more direct than previous models. Drawing on the Exige’s core elements, the Sport 350 combines Lotus’ lightweight extruded aluminium chassis structure with ‘muscular and aerodynamically efficient’ composite bodywork.

A product of Lotus’ ‘Lightweight Laboratory’, the Exige Sport 350 weighs just 1125 kg and has shed 51 kg compared to the previous model Exige S. Engineers weighed every component in the previous Exige S in order to save weight, the result of which includes, amongst many other changes, the introduction of a louvered tailgate panel, a lighter battery, lightweight engine mounts, a lightweight centre console featuring an exposed gearshift mechanism, lighter HVAC pipework and the optimised use of sound insulation.

Powered by a 3.5-litre supercharged V6 engine, generating 345 hp and 295lbft of torque at 4500rpm, 0-62 mph takes 3.9 seconds (3.8 seconds with the automatic, due to electronically optimised gearshifts) and on to a top speed of 170 mph. The manual gearbox has been heavily revised for more precise and quicker shifting. The new Exige Sport 350 can be specified with a 6-speed automatic gearbox where drivers can also change gears manually via forged aluminium paddles located behind the steering wheel. The automatic gearbox control panel is integrated into the centre console of the cockpit, with buttons for Park, Reverse, Neutral and Drive. Up-shifts take 240 milliseconds, with rapid downshifts accompanied by automatic throttle-blip (when in Sport mode).

Replacing the previous model’s glass tailgate, the newly designed lightweight, strong and stiff, rear louvered tailgate not only helps lower the centre of gravity, but also aids engine bay cooling. The car’s aerodynamic styling produces 42 kg of down force at 100 mph with the rear wing and flat underside both contributing to its aerodynamic performance and ‘finely balanced handling’. As standard, the front splitter, rear wing, front access panel, roof panel, wing mirrors and rear transom are finished in matt black to complement the car’s ‘aggressive stance’.

There are three driving modes - ‘Drive’, ‘Sport’ and ‘Race’ – with the latter offering increased levels of traction slip threshold, allowing wider drift angles before intervening. The system also opens the engine exhaust bypass valve at mid-to-high engine speeds. Both ‘Sport’ and ‘Race’ settings increase throttle responsiveness.

New trim packs introduce a heritage theme to the cabin with lightweight sports seats and door panels clad in red or yellow Tartan. The Tartan theme was first introduced in 1976 in the Lotus Esprit S1 and was a bold statement originally in keeping with the fashion of the time and now fitting for the new Exige Sport 350.

The Lotus Exige Sport 350 goes on sale in Europe in February 2016 and will be priced at £55,900 OTR.

Mercedes Roadster revamped and renamed SLC

Mercedes is revamping its SLK Roadster model and relaunching it with a brand new name – SLC.

In March 2016, 20 years on from the arrival of the first SLK Roadster, the new SLC will arrive with a new look and upgraded technology.

The name change is said to acknowledge the close relationship with the C-Class, from which much of the roadster’s technology is derived. 

As part of the facelift, there’s a new front section with a steeply raked radiator grille designed to elongate the appearance of the arrow-shaped bonnet. All SLC models feature a diamond radiator grille as standard, but the new LED Intelligent Light System is only available as an optional extra.

There’s also a new addition to the model line-up in the shape of the sporty, 3.0-litre V6 biturbo-engined Mercedes-AMG SLC 43.

Sporting a modified version of the suspension carried over from the Mercedes-AMG SLK 55, the range-topper can accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 4.7 seconds, thanks to its 367hp and peak torque of 520 Nm.

The SLC’s dynamic characteristics can be adjusted at the touch of a button, modifying the engine, transmission, steering and suspension to suit the driver’s taste. The DYNAMIC SELECT system offers a choice five driving modes – Comfort, Sport, Sport+, Eco and Individual – and is fitted as standard in the 300, the 250 d and the SLC 43.

In addition, a range of technology upgrades to the SLC’s safety, comfort and infotainment systems includes the fitment of Active Brake Assist, an improved vario-roof design and a larger media display featuring extended functionality.

Prices will be announced when the SLC is available to order in mid-January 2016, with first cars arriving in showrooms from April 2016.

The Force Awakens with Dodge Stormtroopers

In celebration of the upcoming release of "Star Wars: The Force Awakens", Dodge is taking to the streets of LA with a team of specially-wrapped cars.

A pair of First Order Stormtrooper-themed white 707-horsepower Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat and Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat vehicles have been patrolling greater LA along with an intimidating Kylo Ren-inspired wrapped black Dodge Viper ACR.

Star Wars and Dodge fans can track vehicle locations in real time on Twitter, using the hashtags #Dodge and #TheForceAwakens, and see the brand's daily fan favorites on the Dodge Facebook and Instagram pages.

Dodge is launching the promotion to give fans the opportunity to take photos and videos with the cars before the latest "Star Wars" adventure opens in cinemas worldwide from December 18.

Lucasfilm first announced in August that it was collaborating with FCA US and six other global brands to promote "Star Wars: The Force Awakens." In November, the FIAT displayed a custom-painted Fiat 500e Stormtrooper, inspired by the armour of the First Order Legion, at the LA Auto Show.

Porsche to rename Boxster and Cayman

Porsche to rename Boxster and Cayman

Porsche to rename Boxster and Cayman

Porsche to rename Boxster and Cayman

Porsche is to give new names to its two-door mid-engine sports cars, effective from 2016.

The Boxster and Cayman will be badged as the '718 Boxster' and '718 Cayman'. The Stuttgart sports car manufacturer's 718 designation is a reference to this type of sports car from the year 1957, which enjoyed much success in renowned car races of the period. The 718 Boxster and 718 Cayman will in the future, both will have equally powerful flat four-cylinder 'boxer' engines with turbocharging. The roadster will be positioned at a higher price level than the Coupe - as is the case for the 911 models.

The 718 model series is a continuation of the four-cylinder concept and the history of Porsche sports cars. In the late 1950s, the 718 - a successor to the Porsche 550 Spyder - represented the highest configuration level of the four-cylinder flat engine. The 718 took first place between 1959 and 1960 at the legendary Italian Targa Florio race in Sicily. At the 24 Hours of Le Mans race in 1958, the 718 RSK with its 142-hp four-cylinder engine scored a class victory.

Works Renault team return to F1 as Infiniti-Red Bull split

Works Renault team return to F1 as Infiniti-Red Bull split

Works Renault team return to F1 as Infiniti-Red Bull split

Renault has confirmed a return to Formula 1 with its own team for the 2016 season, as Nissan, Infiniti and Red Bull Racing have reached mutual agreement to end their partnership a year early.

12-time Constructor's Champion Renault, with nearly 40 years in the sport, is an iconic brand in Formula 1. Work continues on finalising the terms to the acquisition of the Lotus F1 team in the 'shortest timeframe possible'. The Lotus F1 Team stood out as the ideal option for Renault having worked together for 15 years. As a full team, Renault will says it will take maximum benefit from its victories, adding 'the payback as an engine supplier proved to be limited'.

Renault has had uninterrupted involvement in Formula 1 for almost 40 years and has taken part in more than 600 grand prix, claiming 168 race wins, 12 Constructors' titles and 11 Drivers' crowns.

"Renault had two options: to come back at 100 percent or leave. After a detailed study, I have decided that Renault will be in Formula 1, starting 2016. The final details supplied by F1's main stakeholders gave us the confidence to accept this new challenge. Our ambition is to win, even if it will take some time," said Carlos Ghosn, Chairman and CEO, Renault.

Meanwhile, Nissan, Infiniti and the Red Bull Racing Formula One team have reached mutual agreements to discontinue the partnership between the two automotive brands and the F1 team at the end of December this year, one year earlier than originally stipulated.

Infiniti and Red Bull Racing started their commercial partnership in 2011 before Infiniti became the title sponsor of the team in 2013.

Porsche gives all-electric Mission E the go-ahead

Porsche gives all-electric Mission E the go-ahead

Porsche gives all-electric Mission E the go-ahead

Porsche gives all-electric Mission E the go-ahead

The supervisory board at Porsche HQ have given the green light to the company's first 100 per cent electric car.

Confirming the Mission E project, Dr. Oliver Blume, Chairman of the Executive Board, at Porsche described the news as: "beginning a new chapter in the history of the sports car."

The Mission E concept car debuted at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September. The electric sports car combines 'outstanding driving performance' with day-to-day practicality. The four-door car with four individual seats has a system power output of over 600 hp (440 kW) and will accelerate to 62mph in under 3.5 seconds while offering a range of more than 310 miles. Charged via an 800-volt charger unit specially developed for the car, the lithium-ion batteries integrated within the vehicle floor have enough power again for 80 percent of the range after just 15 minutes. The vehicle can optionally be 'refuelled' wirelessly by induction via a coil set into the garage floor.

With the Mission E project, Porsche says it is 'continuing to back sustainable growth' with more than 1,000 new jobs are being created. The company will be investing around 700 million euros in its main site. Over the next few years, a new paint shop and a new assembly plant will be built. The existing engine factory is also being expanded for the production of electric motors. In addition, the existing body shop is being enlarged.

Dr. Wolfgang Porsche, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Porsche AG: "With Mission E, we are making a clear statement about the future of the brand. Even in a greatly changing motoring world, Porsche will maintain its front-row position with this fascinating sports car."

Dr. Oliver Blume continued: "We are resolutely taking on the challenge of electric mobility. Even with solely battery-powered sports cars, Porsche is remaining true to its philosophy and offering our customers the sportiest and technologically most sophisticated model in this market segment."

The new vehicle is due to be launched at the end of the decade.