Latest Cars And Bikes Reviews

Archive for November, 2010

The 2011 Yamaha R1 represents a paradigm shift in technology, performance and controllability among litre class sport bikes. Inspired by Yamaha’s M1 MotoGP race bike, this latest generation R1 features a crossplane crankshaft design with an uneven firing order to provide outstanding yet easy to control torque and an exceptionally linear throttle feel never experience before. But there is far more to the 2011 Yamaha R1 than just a revolutionary engine.

ENGINE

The key components of this cutting edge engine design are the “crossplane” crankshaft and an uneven firing order. Both of these features are used on Yamaha’s championship winning M1 MotoGP racer. Please note … this is not a “big bang” engine. The R1 departs from the norm for in-line 4 cylinder engines and the 180 degree alignment of the crank pins (where the connecting rods attach to the crankshaft), and locates the center two rods at a 90 degree plane from the outer cylinders. This means instead of the crank pins aligned on the same plane (a straight line drawn through the center of the crankshaft), they align on 2 planes in the form of a cross … or “crossplane”. Working in conjunction with the crossplane crank is an uneven firing order. A traditional in-line 4 cylinder’s firing order is normally 1,2,4,3 with a 180 degree interval. This R1 engine fires 1,3,2,4 cylinders and the firing intervals are uneven at 270 / 180/ 90 /180 degrees. What all this means to the rider is the most linear torque possible and amazing throttle control. This engine design allows a whole new level of rider – machine communication. One of the most important benefits is the outstanding cornering performance that increased engine control allows.

Mikuni fuel injection system features twin injectors (one set of primary & one set of secondary injectors). This type of twin injector system is also used on our M1 MotoGP race bike and the R6. One set of injectors (primary) are located in the 45mm throttle bodies while the secondary injectors are located in the air box very near the computer controlled intake funnels. The primary injectors utilize 12 spray holes to maximize the fuel atomization process. The secondary injectors, located inside the air box, begin to function at mid rpms onwards to supply more fuel as required.

Yamaha D-Mode variable throttle control enables the rider to adjust the performance characteristics of the engine based on riding preferences or conditions. Standard mode emphasises the very linear throttle and torque feel of the engine. The A mode allows the rider to enjoy sportier engine performance in the low to mid rpms. While the B Mode reduces the power response for riding situations that require softer power characteristics. The switch mechanism is located on the RHS handle bar switch gear.

CHASSIS/SUSPENSION

Aluminium Deltabox frame has been designed to offer an optimized rigidity balance to maximize handling performance. This frame is very rigid or stiff at the head pipe, engine mounts and swingarm pivot point. In other areas, material has been carefully removed to allow “tuned flex”. Finished in black, this frame boasts a compact 1415mm (55.7″) wheelbase. The swingarm pivot location has been optimized to minimize the chain tension effect under hard acceleration, providing more stable handling. The engine is a fully stressed chassis member to maximize handling. Stability, a key to great handling, is unsurpassed while the ability to hold a line under hard acceleration is excellent. This frame features a mix of gravity cast (head stock & front engine mounts & swingarm pivot area), CF (controlled filling) die cast (outer tank rails) and aluminium panels (inner tank rails). Each of these aluminium parts has different flex characteristics in order to provide the rigidity balance the engineers desired.

Fully adjustable 43mm inverted fork features independent left and right damping system. The compression damping is adjusted via the left fork leg, while rebound damping is adjusted on the right fork leg. This system simplifies the flow of oil through the fork and minimizes oil cavitation (aeration of the oil) for more stable suspension performance. Adjustments include 5-way spring preload, 25-way rebound and 25-way compression damping. Front wheel travel is 120mm (4.7″). The thickness of the inner fork tubes and the shape of the outer tubes have been optimized. The adjustable design allows the rider to tailor suspension settings to match rider weight and road /track conditions to maximize handling and suspension performance.

Bottom link Motocross rear suspension utilizes a fully adjustable piggyback-style rear shock. Adjustments include 16-way spring preload, 18-way rebound and 20-way hi speed compression damping and 4-way low speed compression damping. The bottom link design lowers the centre of gravity for excellent handling. This shock features 2-way (hi speed & low speed) compression adjustment plus rebound and spring preload adjustability too. This is a rising rate or progressive system. The adjustable design allows the rider to tailor suspension settings to match rider weight and road /track conditions to maximize handling and suspension performance. Rear wheel travel is 120mm (4.7″).

Race inspired lightweight instrumentation includes an analog tach plus digital speedo, dual tripmeters, clock, coolant temperature and fuel trip meter. This console also features adjustable back lighting, adjustable shift light and a low fuel warning light. Other key features include a gear position indicator, accelerator opening angle indicator, engine mode indicator integrated stop watch, lap timer with split time mode and an air intake temperature display. The lap timer is controlled by the starter switch button for added convenience and ease of use.

ADDITIONAL FEATURES

Adjustable footrests can be raised 15mm upward and 3mm backward if desired.

Immobilizer ignition system is designed to reduce the possibility of “ride away” theft. This system must recognize the “coded ignition key” in order for the unit to start. If the immobilizer ignition does not recognize the key (or a thief’s screwdriver or other type of “jimmy tool”) the bike will not start even if the ignition is turned or forced into the on position. If the system does not recognize the coded chip in the ignition key, it will not allow the ignition system, fuel pump or starter motor to function.

Race inspired fairing improves both aerodynamics and style. The fairing features a slant nose front profile for aerodynamic streamlining, with engine revealing side cut outs.

Windshield features a “screw less” design for a cleaner, more trick appearance.

Slim design rear tail section.

The seating position offers a very sporty yet comfortable riding position.

Lightweight forged footpegs for high strength.

Extensive use of hollow bolts and lightweight fasteners help trim overall weight.

Heavy-duty 50 series “O” ring drive chain.

Low maintenance, lightweight, sealed battery.

Convenient fold out under seat bungee cord straps.

The YZF-R1 offers a significant level of power and performance. It is not intended for novice or inexperienced riders.

The Audi TT Coupe and the TT Roadster are now more attractive than ever. The design of the lightweight bodies made primarily of aluminum and the interior have been revised with great attention to detail, while new technologies lower the fuel consumption of the compact sports car. New to the lineup is a powerful and highly efficient four cylinder: The 2.0 TFSI develops 155 kW (211 hp), but is content with an average fuel consumption of just 6.6 liters per 100 kilometers (35.64 US mpg).

Exterior

The most obvious feature at the front of the car is the powerful bumper, which frames the larger air inlets with three-dimensional, sharply drawn out edges. The fog lights are set in chrome rings. Also sporting a new look are the lattice of the single-frame grille in high-gloss black and the optional xenon plus headlights. Twelve white LEDs arranged in a straight line at the lower edge of the headlights serve as the daytime running lights. These together with the wings in the headlight body are classic Audi design features.

The upgrades to the TT Coupe and the TT Roadster have added two centimeters (0.79 in) to both cars, which now measure 4,187 millimeters (13.74 ft) in length. The width of 1,842 millimeters (6.04 ft) and the height of 1,352 millimeters (4.44 ft) and 1,357 millimeters (4.45 ft) for the Coupe and Roadster, respectively, remain unchanged. The wheelbase measures 2,468 millimeters (8.10 ft). Four new metallic colors have been added to the TT color range: Scuba Blue, Oolong Gray, Volcano Red and Dakota Gray. Daytona Gray, pearl effect is also available with the S line package.

Body

A key factor for the groundbreaking efficiency and excellent driving dynamics of the TT is the body, which features hybrid Audi Space Frame technology (ASF). Lightweight aluminum is used at the front of the car back to the B-pillar, with steel panels used at the rear. This mix enabled the development engineers to balance the axial loads perfectly and keep the total weight extremely low – prime parameters for dynamic performance.

The TT 1.8 TFSI weighs a mere 1,240 kg (2,733.73 lb), a good 100 kilograms (220.46 lbs) less than its closest competitor. The body of the Coupés weighs only 206 kilograms (454.15 lb), which breaks down to 140 kilograms (308.65 lb) of aluminum (68 percent) and 66 kilograms (145.51 lb) of steel (32 percent). The specific reinforcements in the TT Roadster – steel bulkhead, strongly ribbed sills, A-pillar and windshield frame – result in a 58 to 42 percent split of the two materials.

Interior

The interior of the TT features a sporty design, dynamic elegance and generous amounts of space. The standard sport seats are mounted low and offer a high level of lateral support. The steering wheel is flattened at the bottom. The five round air vents and the arched cowl over the round-dial instruments exude the spirit characteristic of the TT. The ergonomics are logical and the fit and finish is uncompromisingly precise – just like always with Audi. When the ignition is turned, the dials of the speedometer and tachometer briefly run up to the limit before returning to zero.

The designers have added additional gloss to the fine interior. New aluminum-look applications shine on the steering wheel, the center console and in the door liner. Elegant accents are provided by rings, frames and strips in high-gloss black. The aluminum strip above the glove box door is now brushed gray. There are three new interior colors from which to choose – nougat brown, titanium gray and garnet red. The leather seat covers are specially treated to reduce thermal heating by as much as 20 degrees Celsius (68° F) when the TT is parked in the sun.

The TT Coupe and the TT Roadster are sports cars with a high degree of everyday utility. The backs of both rear seats fold down in the 2+2-seater Coupé, expanding the trunk space beneath the long lid from 292 to 700 liters (10.31 – 24.72 cubic ft). The Roadster, which offers 250 liters (8.83 cubic ft) of storage space whether the top is up or down, can also be supplied with the option of a load-through facility.

Drivetrain

The Audi valvelift system AVS in the new 2.0 TFSI increases power, torque and efficiency. Equipped with a manual transmission, the TT 2.0 TFSI consumes only 6.6 liters of fuel per 100 km (35.64 US mpg) in the European test cycle. CO2 emissions are an exemplary 154 grams/km (247.84 g/mile). The best value posted by a competitor is 199 g/km (320.26 g/mile). Fuel consumption has improved by 1.1 liters/100 km over the previous model.

The TT engine lineup includes two other four-cylinder engines besides the new 2.0 TFSI. The 1.8 TFSI, available with a six-speed manual transmission and front-wheel drive, delivers 118 kW (160 hp) and 250 Nm of torque (184.39 lb-ft), the latter between 1,500 and 4,500 rpm. It launches the Coupe from a standing start to 100 km/h in 7.2 seconds, with a top speed of 226 km/h (140.43 mph). It consumes just 6.4 liters of fuel per 100 km (36.75 US mpg) on average, which corresponds to only 149 grams of CO2/km (239.79 g/mile). The TT 2.0 TDI remains the only sports car with a diesel engine in its segment, and its efficiency clearly sets the standard. The TT Coupe consumes just 5.3 liters of fuel per 100 km (44.38 US mpg), which corresponds to only 139 grams of CO2/km (223.70 g/mile). With 125 kW (170 hp) and 350 Nm (258.15 lb-ft) of torque – the latter available between 1,750 and 2,500 rpm – the standard sprint takes 7.5 seconds and acceleration continues until a top speed of 226 km/h (140.43 mph) is reached. The two-liter TDI is mated to a manual transmission and quattro all-wheel drive.

A precisely shifting six-speed manual transmission transfers power to the wheels regardless of the engine. Audi also offers the S tronic dual clutch transmission as an option for the new 2.0 TFSI. This transmission switches between its six gears with virtually no interruption to the supply of power. The high-tech gearbox shifts extremely quickly and comfortably, either fully automatically or manually as the driver desires. Manual shifts can be made using the optional paddles on the steering wheel.

Chassis

The front suspension features McPherson struts, with aluminum components used to keep the weight of the unsprung masses low. The power steering is direct, sensitive and thanks to its electromechanical drive, highly efficient. The trailing arms of the four-link rear suspension are relatively soft in the interest of comfort. The connections to the three transverse links per wheel, on the other hand, are rigid in order to direct lateral forces into the body with precision.

Available as an option with all variants of the TT is the electronically controlled Audi magnetic ride shock absorber system, another high-tech feature that underscores the unique character of the compact sports car. A fluid containing tiny magnetic particles circulates through the dampers. When a voltage is applied to the magnetic field, the behavior of the particles changes and thus the damping behavior of the fluid changes. A computer fed with input from a bundle of sensors controls the adaptive damping.

The new CLS63 AMG continues the success story of the previous models, the CLS55 AMG and CLS63 AMG, which have delighted our customers all around the world since 2004′, according to Ola Källenius, Head of Mercedes-AMG GmbH. ‘The CLS63 AMG is a unique high-performance car – it sets new standards in design, performance and efficiency.

Like the S63 AMG and CL63 AMG, drivers of the Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG will benefit from an eight-cylinder powerhouse, designated internally as the M 157: the new AMG 5.5-litre V8 biturbo engine boasts a combination of innovative high-tech components which, in addition to spray-guided direct petrol injection with piezo injectors, also include a full aluminium crankcase, four-valve technology with camshaft adjustment, air/water intercooling, generator management and stop/start system. With a displacement of 5461 cc, the eight-cylinder engine develops a peak output of 525 hp and torque of 700 Nm. In conjunction with the AMG Performance package, these figures increase to 557 hp and 800 Nm. Both variants of the Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG achieve exceptional performance: acceleration from 0-62 mph takes 4.4 and 4.3 seconds respectively, and the top speed is 155 mph (electronically limited).

The major difference between both power units is the increase in the maximum charge-air pressure from 1.0 to 1.3 bar. In addition, the CLS63 AMG with the AMG Performance package features a special high-quality carbon fibre engine cover.

Transmission

A major contribution towards achieving the unrivalled consumption figures has been made by the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission, a component used exclusively at Mercedes-AMG. Unlike a conventional automatic transmission, the MCT transmission does away with the torque converter; instead, it makes use of a compact, wet start-up clutch. Also fitted as standard equipment is the stop/start function: it is permanently active in the transmission’s Controlled Efficiency (‘C’) mode, and switches the eight-cylinder engine off when the car comes to a stop. At the same time, ‘C’ mode also means a ‘soft’ accelerator response set-up with convenient and early gearshifts; moving off generally takes place in second gear. A green ‘ECO’ symbol in the AMG instrument cluster shows the driver that the stop/start function is active.

The engine and transmission come across as much more agile in the ‘S’ (Sport), ‘S+’ (Sport plus) and ‘M’ (Manual) modes; in addition, the stop/start function is switched off. In ‘S’ and ‘M’ modes, the engine management system partially suppresses the cylinders: interrupting ignition and injection under full load leads to even faster gearshifts than before. The highly emotional vocals are an appealing side effect of this lightning-fast process. An automatic double-declutching function and RACE START function are also included as standard.

Suspension

The suspension, steering and braking system of the new CLS63 AMG complement the high-tech drive system perfectly. The AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension, with steel suspension struts on the front axle and air suspension struts on the rear axle, as well as automatic level control, is enhanced further by an electronically controlled damping system; it automatically adjusts the damping characteristics depending on the driving conditions and reduces the roll angle of the body. The result: lightning-fast adjustment between optimum driving comfort and the best possible agility. The driver can switch between the three suspension modes of ‘Comfort’, ‘Sport’ and ‘Sport plus’ at the press of a button.

The autonomously developed front axle, with a track width which is 24 mm wider, is the perfect match for the newly developed electromechanical AMG sports parameter steering. It not only features variable power assistance which adapts according to the suspension mode, but also contributes towards reducing fuel consumption, since the steering assistance system only draws power when the vehicle is actually being steered. The 3-stage ESP® also has individual setting options – thereby providing a definite advantage when it comes to combining driving pleasure with absolute driving safety.

Efficiency

The highest level of engineering is also reflected in the body of the new CLS63 AMG: the intelligent lightweight construction makes a significant contribution towards addressing the classic conflicting goals of low weight and high strength. Like the SLS AMG, the Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG is also fitted with doors featuring a full aluminium construction. They consist of deep-drawn aluminium panels with extruded sections, and are around 24 kg lighter compared with conventional steel doors. In addition, the bonnet, front wings, boot lid, parcel shelf, various support sections as well as major parts of the chassis and engine are all made from aluminium too.

Interior

This philosophy also continues through consistently into the interior. All of the AMG-specific design and appointment features ideally supplement the redesigned CLS interior. The wrap-around effect in the cockpit, with its high line which sweeps from the driver’s door over the instrument panel support and across to the front passenger door, is generously flanked by high-quality trim elements – available in black piano lacquer as standard in the top-of-the-range AMG model. Quality materials and workmanship meet the very highest of standards and help to guarantee a particularly exclusive atmosphere.

The extensive range of standard appointments also includes AMG sports seats in nappa leather, a new three-spoke AMG Performance steering wheel with aluminium shift paddles and flattened top and bottom sections, and the AMG DRIVE UNIT with compact E-SELECT selector lever.

Performance

The Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG is the first passenger car in the world to offer LED High Performance headlamps, which combine the exciting colour elements of LED technology – similar to those of daytime running lamps – with the performance, functionality and energy efficiency of today’s bi-xenon generation. Fitted as standard, for the first time ever this new light system provides the Intelligent Light System already proven in Mercedes models fitted with bi-xenon headlamps in combination with LED technology. The headlamps, with their 71 LED lamps in total, underline the unmistakable appearance of the CLS63 AMG. The light specialists from Mercedes-Benz have for the first time been able to use LED technology in the Adaptive Highbeam Assist, resulting in an entirely new level of safety when driving at night.

In contrast to the first vehicles equipped with LED headlamps, no compromises are now necessary with respect to the functionality and performance of the lighting technology. There are further arguments for the new, LED-based lighting technology: the average operating life of an LED is around 10,000 hours, around five times longer than that of a xenon light; moreover, LED headlamps most closely approximate the colour temperature of daylight. This means that LED light is in keeping with normal human perception patterns. Studies have shown that the closer the colour of artificial light comes to daylight, the less strain there is on the eyes. With a colour temperature of 5500 kelvin, LED light is closer to daylight (6500 K) than xenon light (4200 K). The LED daytime driving lights specific to AMG are also presented in two characteristic light strips integrated into the AMG front apron.

The Z1000SX offers street riding excitement wrapped in seductive full-fairing styling that embodies its sporty performance. Add a number of convenience features and the result is a unique package more than able to satisfy a rider’s every desire. Whether looking to move on from a supersport or super-naked ride, or step up from a mid-size sport model, the Z1000SX offers the performance and versatility for a fuller bike life than ever experienced.

The Z1000SX’s well-integrated full-fairing styling offers a good indication of its sporty character. Featuring a “personal jet fighter” motif, the sensuous styling is both audacious and subtle at the same time. The aggressive design gives the Z1000SX its own distinct appearance, yet is instantly recognisable as a Kawasaki.

Bodywork

Supersport-style full-fairing bodywork gives the Z1000SX a distinct, head-turning look of its own. The sleek styling also offers a good measure of wind protection, facilitating short touring runs.

• The leading edges of the fairings feature a slat-style design that directs the wind around the bike, enabling the fairings to be slimmer in the middle.
• The fairings flair at the rear, keeping hot air from the engine from hitting the rider’s legs.
• Original-design front turn signals mount directly to the fairings. Turn signal units are attached to the inside of the fairing using rubber mounts to minimise fairing damage should the bike fall over.
• Supersport-style front fender contributes to both aerodynamics and racy looks.
• Slim and compact tail cowl design moves mass both physically and visually away from the rear and toward the front.
• LED taillight design features red LED bulbs and a red transparent lens.
• The short-style silencer design allows the rear wheel silhouette to be seen.
• Swingarm features eccentric axle adjusters, contributing to the Z1000SX’s Kawasaki identity.
• Supersport-style throttle case contributes to the Z1000SX’s sporty image.

Engine

Riding excitement is about more than just performance figures. Riding impact comes from the sensations the rider feels. Twisting the throttle results in a strong response from all rpm, the engine pulling strongly right to redline. Superb throttle response, power delivery with a mid-range hit make accelerating an exhilarating experience.

• Liquid-cooled, DOHC, 16-valve 1,043 cm3 In-line Four offers impressive power (101.5 kW (138 PS)) and strong torque.
• Bore and stroke of 77.0 x 56.0 mm were chosen to achieve the desired engine character. The result is an engine very strong in the everyday rpm range most used in street riding situations.
• Downdraft throttle bodies allow intake air to travel to the engine in the shortest possible distance, contributing to performance. While downdraft throttle bodies often use short intake funnels to maximise high-rpm performance, the Z1000SX’s are longer to offer the best power characteristics for street riding excitement.
• Throttle bore is ø38 mm, chosen for the ideal low-mid range response.
• Oval sub-throttles help keep the engine slim – important since the throttle bodies are positioned between the rider’s knees.
• Engine tuning focused on the feeling the rider gets when opening the throttle. There is a strong torque feeling (torque was set at the maximum level before the rear wheel starts spinning). Get on the gas at any rpm and the engine pulls strongly – although the feeling is more like being propelled forward.
• Good over-rev characteristics mean that power does not drop off suddenly at high rpm.
• Power delivery is quite linear, but the engine spins up noticeably faster from about 7,000 rpm onwards. Silky smooth response from mid-high rpm ensures excellent driveability.
• A secondary balancer, driven off a gear on the 6th web of the crankshaft, eliminates excess vibration. Of course, a certain amount of engine vibration was desired as part of the bike’s character (vibration contributes to the feeling of acceleration, increasing linearly with rpm), so vibration was not totally eliminated.

Cool Air System

With the airbox nestled between the frame beams, intake air can be affected by engine heat. The Cool Air system routes cool air to the airbox from ducts at the front of the side fairings, minimising performance loss due to heated intake air. This should not be confused with Ram Air, where force-fed air becomes pressurised in the airbox. A resonator inside the airbox reduces noise at low rpm, and enhances intake sound at high rpm.

Exhaust System

The exhaust system features a 4-into-2-pre-chamber-into-2 layout. Silencer end-caps create a quad-style image. Main and pre-catalysers ensure emissions are clean. An exhaust device is located upstream of the right-side silencer. Thanks to the under-engine pre-chamber, silencer volume could be kept to 3 litres each and silencer weight to 3500 g each, greatly contributing to mass centralisation (please see also Mass Centralisation below) and a lower centre of gravity.

Chassis

To ensure maximum riding excitement, the Z1000SX offers a quick-steering and light-handling package. A highly rigid aluminium frame with high mass centralisation balances sharp turning and firm handling. Supersport-style front brakes add to the high level of control.

Brakes

• At the front, 300 mm petal brake discs are gripped by opposed 4-piston radial-mount calipers. Caliper piston size is 30 mm.
• Radial-pump front brake master cylinder also contributes to the superb control and feel offered by the calipers.
• The rear brake features a single piston, pin-slide caliper gripping a 250 mm petal disc.
• The caliper is mounted below the swingarm and features a torque rod. The arrangement adds to the racy image.
• For added braking reassurance, ABS models are available in certain markets.

Suspension

• Rear suspension positions the shock unit and linkage above the swingarm.
• This arrangement contributes to mass centralisation (please see below).
• The suspension is located far enough from the exhaust that operation is not affected by heat.
• Visible from the outside, the Horizontal Back-link rear suspension contributes to the appearance of the Z1000SX.
• The rear shock features rebound and preload adjustability. A cam-style preload adjuster facilitates making adjustments to suit 2-up riding or luggage.

This extraordinary super sports car joins the competition spirit of the Super Trofeo race car with an exclusive design and one hundred percent road-going usability. The first Gallardo from the exclusive and limited Blancpain Edition production run has been presented by Stephan Winkelmann, President and CEO of Automobili Lamborghini, and Marc A. Hayek, President and CEO of Blancpain, at the final race weekend of the Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo on Sunday September 26 in the ‘Piero Taruffi’ circuit, Vallelunga.

Automobili Lamborghini, the manufacturer of extreme Italian super sports cars, and Blancpain, the world’s oldest luxury watchmaker, are among the very best brands in their respective sectors worldwide. Blancpain was recently voted the ‘Best of the Best’ among the world’s most exquisite watch brands by the ‘Luxury Institute’ in New York. Now the two brands have come together to develop a unique blend of technology and design to create the Lamborghini Gallardo LP 570-4 Blancpain Edition, putting the power of the world’s fastest mono-marque race series into a road-legal vehicle.

Blancpain is the title sponsor of the successful Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo series. The cooperation between these two brands brings together the highest levels of engineering excellence from the automotive and chronometry industries. Blancpain has been producing innovative masterpieces of watch-making art in Switzerland’s Vallée de Joux since 1735. Each timepiece is assembled by one single watchmaker, reflecting the quality and individual attention with which Lamborghini builds its super sports cars for the road, and its 570 hp Super Trofeo race cars.

‘This is a very intense and dynamic partnership between companies from highly disparate sectors, but with the same drive for innovation and mechanical excellence,’ says Marc A. Hayek, President and CEO of Blancpain. ‘For me, Blancpain has always been a true revolutionary – even a little crazy – with the spirit of adventure. We have always tried to be a little different, to remain innovative and to attempt things that no-one had ever achieved before. This pursuit of excellence is a passion that is shared by Blancpain and Lamborghini,’ continues Hayek. ‘Lamborghini is indisputably a first-class manufacturer with the highest levels of engineering competence, which is why the Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo offers a perfect platform for attracting even more attention to our brand around the world.’

In this special configuration, the Lamborghini Gallardo LP 570-4 Blancpain Edition shows the spirit of competition – the mighty rear spoiler for maximum stability and the engine cover for optimized ventilation were derived directly from the race car featured in the world’s fastest one-make series. The Edition is also equipped with Skorpius wheels with yellow-painted brake calipers and discs made, of course, from carbon-ceramic composite. One striking visual feature that fits perfectly with the matt black paintwork is the carbon-fiber used to make external components, such as the diffuser and mirror casings.

The interior of the Blancpain Edition further reinforces the extremely sporty character of the Gallardo without sacrificing the comfort of the driver and passenger. The entire interior is finished in black Alcantara with yellow accents and visible carbon-fiber. The Blancpain logo is placed on the exterior and also featured on the seats and cockpit in yellow stitching. Propulsion for the Gallardo LP 570-4 Blancpain Edition comes courtesy of the 570 hp V10 power unit from the series Superleggera production car – as is the case for the Super Trofeo race car. Superb traction from the all-wheel drive ensures perfect stability in every situation.

The super sports car from Sant’Agata Bolognese boasts a dry weight of no more than 1340 kilograms (2954 lb) – the lightest road-going model in Lamborghini’s range.

One key factor is the exterior and interior components made from carbon-fiber. Carbon-fiber is ideal for the manufacture of sports cars as its use allows for weight reduction and improved mechanical features. The car’s performance is thus enhanced thanks to a better power-to-weight ratio and reduced total mass, which means that CO2 emissions are also lower.

The V10 power unit with 5.2 liters (317.6 cu in) of displacement generates 419 kW (570 hp) in the Gallardo Blancpain Edition. This puts the power-to-weight ratio of the vehicle at only 2.35 kilograms (5.18 lb) per hp and guarantees breathtaking performance. This super sports car handles the dash from zero to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 3.4 seconds and flies past the 200 km/h (124 mph) mark only 6.8 seconds later, ultimately exceeding 320 km/h (199 mph).