Land Rover Discovery 4 Armoured

Land Rover has revealed the Discovery 4 Armoured Vehicle, The model replaces the outgoing Discovery 3 model, offering the same great off-road capability and level of protection, but an updated specification to keep up with the times.

The new Discovery 4 model features a more powerful 5.0-liter LR-V8 direct-injection petrol engine mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. This combination produces a total of 375 HP that can get the SUV from 0-60mph in just 10.6 seconds.

The base car underwent endless engineering changes to safeguard best float as well as doing opening, in spite of a combined weight of a shield. Although a SUV weighs 3550 kg (7826 lbs) heavy duty 6-caliper front as well as 4-caliper back Alcon front brakes safeguard a vehicle stops as well as a standard chronicle. The wheels have been wrapped in run flat Goodyear Wrangler HP All Weather Tires, ensuring the quick-getaway even if the tires are punctured.

From the exterior it’s hard to spot the difference, mainly because there is no immediate difference; it all looks pretty much the same. Nonetheless, every bit of protection plating has been blended in with the car’s design and passes all European compliance standards.

The all-wheel drive Discovery 4 Armoured is also fitted with a Terrain Response System which has various settings that adapt to most types of surfaces such as mud, grass or rocks.
The Land Rover Discovery 4 Armoured comes with a 3-year, 80,000 km factory warranty on both the vehicle and the armour.




Press Release

Land Rover Introduces Powerful New Discovery 4 Armoured Vehicle

Gaydon, Warwickshire, December 17, 2010 - Land Rover is enhancing its range of factory-supported armoured vehicles with the launch of the powerful new Discovery 4 Armoured.

Replacing the successful Discovery 3 model, the Discovery 4 Armoured offers the same legendary all-terrain capability and state-of-the-art protection, but features an upgraded specification to deliver superior levels of performance, luxury and style.

Compared to the previous model, the Discovery 4 Armoured offers a more powerful 5.0-litre LR-V8 petrol engine, improved passive safety with an airbag restraint system for driver and front passenger, and a more luxurious interior with premium leather seats.

With discreet armouring and a generous 500kg payload, the new model provides highly versatile, safe and comfortable transportation for five people and their luggage.

Benefiting from Land Rover's extensive experience in the armoured vehicle market, the Discovery 4 Armoured is supplied with a full three-year, 80,000km factory warranty on the base vehicle and armour, along with comprehensive after-sales support from specialised technicians.

"The new Discovery 4 Armoured offers an outstanding breadth of capability, and enables occupants to travel across challenging terrains in confidence and safety," says John Graham, Commercial Manager Armoured Programs, Land Rover.

"Developed by Land Rover in partnership with global leaders in vehicle security, the Discovery 4 is the ideal choice for government agencies, security organisations and businesses whose employees are exposed to high-risk locations."

Fully certified armouring systems
Although virtually indistinguishable from the standard model, the Discovery 4 Armoured features ballistic steel armour and glazing which provides ballistic protection in accordance with European standards BS EN1522 level FB6 and BS EN 1063 level BR6 respectively.

Developed in partnership with the vehicle armouring specialists Centigon, it also provides blast protection against 15kg TNT (or equivalent) detonated in close proximity to the vehicle and under floor protection against two DM51 hand grenades. The protection offered was certified by QinetiQ®, a globally recognised independent blast and ballistic testing organisation.

"Rather than relying on testing the individual armour components, we have ensured that the entire vehicle is independently certified to B6 standards, so that we can be completely confident of its ballistic integrity," added John Graham.

Comprehensive engineering changes have been made to the base vehicle to ensure that it maintains optimum ride and handling on all surfaces, despite the additional mass of the armour.

The Discovery 4 chassis features independent air suspension, and modifications that include uprated air springs and retuned dampers, larger diameter anti-roll bars, and heavy duty Alcon disc brakes front and rear.

Land Rover engineers have also enhanced the passive Safety Systems in the new Discovery 4 Armoured, with driver's steering wheel and passenger fascia dual-stage airbag restraint systems.

Enhanced performance on all surfaces
Like the standard vehicle, the Discovery 4 Armoured comes equipped with advanced four-wheel-drive technologies to deliver outstanding all-terrain performance.

This includes full functionality of the latest generation Terrain Response System® - an armoured market class-leading feature, which enables the driver to configure the vehicle to negotiate a variety of surfaces, such as tarmac, ruts, grass, mud, snow or rocks, in the most effective way.

For enhanced performance, the Discovery 4 Armoured is equipped with the new 375PS
5.0-litre LR-V8 direct-injection petrol engine, replacing the 2.7-litre V6 turbo-diesel used in the previous model.

Teamed with a responsive six-speed automatic transmission, this refined and powerful new engine offers significantly faster acceleration, with 0-100km/h (62mph) achieved in just 10.6 seconds.

Comfortable and flexible interior
The interior of the Discovery 4 Armoured is both functional and extremely comfortable, providing a commanding elevated driving position and a flexible seating layout for up to five people. The practicality of the vehicle is significantly enhanced by the generous 500kg payload allowance.

Passengers will also appreciate the completely redesigned Discovery 4 cabin, which features a more stylish and sophisticated design with smooth and flowing surface treatments.

The quality of the interior materials has been significantly upgraded compared to the previous model, featuring premium leather upholstery on the seats and sumptuous real wood veneers.

Comprehensive support
Land Rover provides armoured vehicle customers with a comprehensive support programme, both before and after purchase.

A dedicated security consultant works closely with the customer during the sales process, to ensure their full requirements are met. Customers are able to select from an extensive choice of optional security features to provide the desired vehicle configuration.

Once the vehicle is in service, the customer has access to a full driver training programme. An armour specialist can provide optional services which include scheduled maintenance, support and vehicle familiarisation.

All Discovery 4 Armoured vehicles have a full three-year, 80,000km factory warranty.

# # #

EDITOR'S NOTES
1. More details on the Discovery 4 Armoured can be found at http://www.landrover.com/gl/en/lr/professional-vehicles/armoured-vehicles/discovery-4-armoured/

Land Rover Discovery 4 Armoured - Detailed Specifications

Base Vehicle Specification
5.0-litre LR-V8 direct-injection petrol engine
Maximum Power (EEC) 375 PS (276 kW)
Maximum Torque (EEC) 510 Nm (376 lb ft)
6-speed automatic transmission
Kerb weight 3550kg (excluding options)
4050kg GVW
Air conditioning
Land Rover Terrain Response® system
Off road capability (deep sand driving not recommended)
Modified suspension system to accommodate increased vehicle mass
378mm brake discs with upgraded Alcon aluminium brake callipers: 6-pot front, 4-pot rear
Tyre Pressure Monitoring System - where licensed

Armour Specification
European Standard BS EN 1522 FB6 and BS EN 1063 BR6 (high velocity assault rifle)
Side blast protection - 15kg device in close proximity to the vehicle
Under floor protection against 2 x DM 51 hand grenades
Heavy duty wheels and run flat tyres - Goodyear Wrangler HP All Weather Tyre

Optional Features

Essential Armour Option Pack
Driver opening window (100mm drop to allow document passing)
Auxiliary secondary battery supply
Anti-tamper exhaust
Intercom

Maintenance Option Pack
Heavy duty spare wheel and run flat tyre - Goodyear Wrangler HP All Weather Tyre
Heavy duty jack and tools

Independent Options
Covert blue lights and siren system (where legal)
Covert headlight flash (LED)
Under bonnet fire suppressant system
Heavy duty jack and tools
Tinted windows
Intercom
Auxiliary secondary battery supply
Anti-tamper exhaust
Driver's opening front window
Rear payload area glass anti-theft film protection

Specialist Service Option
Global After Sales Support is a tailor made package available on request

Driver Training Package
Armoured Vehicle Driver Training is a tailor made package available on request

2012 Hennessey VelociRaptor APV

American tuner Hennessey is introducing a new division called Armored Performance Vehicles (APV) program which applies the company's performance, handling and braking optimisation knowledge on the latest armored vehicles.

This new programme will apply the company’s philosophy and will improve the acceleration, braking and handling performance on late-model armored vehicles. What you see in the photos is the 2012 Hennessey VelociRaptor APV based on the new Ford Raptor SuperCrew. This car offers a combination of armor protection, vehicle performance, passenger comfort and safety.

The VelociRaptor APV is powered by a 6.2 liter supercharged V8 engine, with output between 450 and 800 HP (up from 411 HP), and offers the ultimate combination of armor protection, vehicle performance, passenger comfort, safety, acceleration, braking and handling performance.

The vehicle can accommodate between six and eight passengers, depending on the customer’s preferences and will offer multiple top comfort features. The list of interior goodies includes Satellite TV, high-speed Internet, entertainment systems and mobile office systems.

Source: Hennessey Performance




Press Release

War Wagon: Introducing the 2012 Hennessey VelociRaptor APV - The World's First Armored Performance Vehicle

Hennessey Performance announces new performance upgrades for armored vehicles such as the Chevrolet Suburban and Cadillac Escalade. Called Armored Performance Vehicles (APV), the company also plans to release a supercharged SUV based on the off-road-ready Ford Raptor truck in both armored and non-armored variants.

Sealy, TX - September 9, 2010 - Having a vehicle that can safely and quickly get you out of harm's way is just as important as having armored protection. Introducing Hennessey Armored Performance Vehicles (APV) ^TM. Hennessey APV^TM will apply the company's go-fast know-how to help improve the acceleration, braking and handling performance on late-model armored vehicles.

"Adding armor protection to SUV's such as Chevy Suburbans and Cadillac Escalades can easily increase vehicle weight from 6,000 lbs to over 10,000 lbs," said company founder and president, John Hennessey. "We are excited to be able to apply our 20 years of high-performance experience to the armor vehicle industry."

The company's 2012 Hennessey VelociRaptor APV, based on the new Ford Raptor Super Crew, will offer the ultimate combination of armor protection, vehicle performance, passenger comfort and safety. Powered by a supercharged 6.2L V8, the VelociRaptor APV will have the performance capability to drive away from, through or over obstacles both on the road as well as off-road.

"The VelociRaptor APV will showcase the highest level of protection, comfort and performance all in one vehicle," John states.

Hennessey Performance will also be offering a non-armored version of the VelociRaptor APV which will offer off-road enthusiasts the same level of utility and off-road capability that the Ford Raptor has become known for. Hennessey will offer the VelociRaptor SUV with the same supercharged 6.2L V8 producing 575 bhp. There will be seating options for six, seven or eight seats. A full line of electronic upgrades will also be available, including: Satellite TV, high-speed internet, entertainment systems and mobile office systems.

Hennessey APV^TM offers a complete line of high-performance upgrade systems for the following the following armored vehicles, both for new vehicles as well as ones that are already in service:

• Cadillac Escalade - 500 to 1000 hp
• Chevrolet Suburban - 500 to 1000 hp
• Chevrolet Truck - 500 to 1000 hp
• Ford Raptor Truck - 450 to 800 hp
• GMC Denali - 500 to 1000 hp
• Jeep - Up to 800 hp
• Land Rover - Up to 550 hp
• Lexus LX570 - Up to 500 hp
• Nissan Patrol - Up to 1000 hp
• Range Rover - Up to 550 hp
• Toyota Sequoia - Up to 650 hp
• Toyota Land Cruiser - Up to 650 hp

About Hennessey Performance & Hennessey APV
Hennessey Performance (HPE) has been making fast cars go faster since 1991. It operates a 30,000 square foot workshop and showroom facility situated on 143 acres near Sealy, Texas (about 45 minutes west of Houston). The company also operates a showroom and installation facility located in Lake Forest, California. HPE offers a wide variety of dyno proven, track tested parts and upgrades for a variety of modern performance vehicles. Hennessey Performance is also the only tuner in North America that operates its own test track - Lonestar Motorsports Park.

Indigen Armor Unveils Extreme Off-Road Defense Vehicle

INDIAN LAND, SC - (May 4, 2010) - After nearly 7 years of relative obscurely manufacturing purpose-built armored vehicles for U.S. Special Operations groups, Defense Venture Group, through its subsidiary, Indigen Armor, has designed, engineered and manufactured a Non-Standard Tactical Truck (NSTT) for commercial release. Check out the video of company executives that sat in the vehicle while it was shot at with an AK-47 assault rifle. If it is good enough for our troops to ride in then it is good enough for the guys who made it to prove that it works.

The NSTT is an armored, 4-door, 4-wheel drive, turbo diesel pick-up truck. This truck is purpose-built, literally built from the ground up. The NSTT was designed to afford soldiers greater mobility in urban, desert, woodland, jungle, mountainous, and arctic terrain. The chassis, suspension, power train and armored occupant safety cell were engineered specifically to carry large payloads across rough landscape in denied areas.

The NSTT offers scalable armor packages to meet multiple threat levels. Its 6.0 turbo diesel engine runs on JP8 and other military diesel fuels. Internally transportable in an MH-47 helicopter, the NSTT can accommodate a variety of low-profile or overt tactical body styles. This allows the end user to change the vehicle's profile.

An ideal, lightweight alternative to heavy legacy vehicles, the NSTT comfortably accommodates four operators with their combat gear, communications equipment, and C4ISR technology. It is perfect for special operations, defense, paramilitary and security organizations that require a reliable and robust off-road capability in high threat environments.

Indigen Armor Unveils Extreme Off-Road Defense Vehicle

INDIAN LAND, SC - (May 4, 2010) - After nearly 7 years of relative obscurely manufacturing purpose-built armored vehicles for U.S. Special Operations groups, Defense Venture Group, through its subsidiary, Indigen Armor, has designed, engineered and manufactured a Non-Standard Tactical Truck (NSTT) for commercial release. Check out the video of company executives that sat in the vehicle while it was shot at with an AK-47 assault rifle. If it is good enough for our troops to ride in then it is good enough for the guys who made it to prove that it works.

The NSTT is an armored, 4-door, 4-wheel drive, turbo diesel pick-up truck. This truck is purpose-built, literally built from the ground up. The NSTT was designed to afford soldiers greater mobility in urban, desert, woodland, jungle, mountainous, and arctic terrain. The chassis, suspension, power train and armored occupant safety cell were engineered specifically to carry large payloads across rough landscape in denied areas.

The NSTT offers scalable armor packages to meet multiple threat levels. Its 6.0 turbo diesel engine runs on JP8 and other military diesel fuels. Internally transportable in an MH-47 helicopter, the NSTT can accommodate a variety of low-profile or overt tactical body styles. This allows the end user to change the vehicle's profile.

An ideal, lightweight alternative to heavy legacy vehicles, the NSTT comfortably accommodates four operators with their combat gear, communications equipment, and C4ISR technology. It is perfect for special operations, defense, paramilitary and security organizations that require a reliable and robust off-road capability in high threat environments.

smart fortwo owners to be 'stuck' on new accessories

Any press release dated April 1 is a potential disinformation landmine, but news of Smart's latest attempt to make the ForTwo enticing seems legit. The diminutive Smart ForTwo has fallen on its face in the North American market, down 61 percent this March versus last year, and judging from the latest bit of groundbreaking marketing from Smart's UK outpost, the word is out that there's not much "there" there.

Adding stickers and interior customization options to a car that's having a tough time in the marketplace is the auto sales equivalent of adding a cute kid to the cast of a failing sitcom. Smart has gone there by collaborating with Germany's Timo Wuerz to design new foil stickers for the ForTwo's Tridion safety cell. Patterns include skylines, stars, and flowers. Everybody w00t as you tweet the news. Brabus has been sucked into it, too, affixing its name to a carbon fiber-look applique package for the interior. There's a Brabus LED daytime running light package as well, that's actually a functional option.

Stickers can't do a thing about the dismal driving experience the thing exhibits in U.S. trim, though. At least it'll look extra trendy parked nose-in to the curb somewhere.

via:autoblog






Press Release

smart fortwo owners to be 'stuck'
on new accessories

smart fortwo enthusiasts can now put the power into flower power, fly the flag for the iconic brand and even give their car wings with the new smart art stickers.

The new adhesive foil stickers comprise six striking motifs that enable owners to customise their smart with designs that include a classic black, white and blue racing pattern along with variations on flowers, skylines and even birds' wings and stars.

Designed by acclaimed German artist Timo Wuerz in collaboration with Mercedes-Benz Accessories GmbH, the stickers are applied to the tridion safety cell to provide an attractive contrast to the other body panels. When correctly affixed the stickers last for approximately five years but they can also be removed at any time without leaving any traces.

The stickers are available from all smart retailers and are priced at £182 (including VAT). The retailer can apply the stickers on request and fitting takes approximately one hour.

smart owners can also personalise their car's interior with the new range of BRABUS interior contrast components. Featuring a carbon-fibre look, the eight-piece set comprises trims and covers for the dashboard instruments, steering-column stalk, instrument cluster, door handles and centre console. The package costs £256 (including VAT) and can be ordered and fitted at any official smart retailer.

more...


smart fortwo owners to be 'stuck' on new accessories...2

Completing the new additions to the stylish range of BRABUS accessories is the new BRABUS LED daytime driving lights. These can be retrofitted and not only look good, but enhance safety too. These advanced lights can be combined with all standard main headlights and smart owners can choose between two versions in chrome or black, both of which are priced at £486 (including VAT). The impressive lighting technology can be retrofitted at the back too, the BRABUS third LED brake light now being available for £178 (including VAT) and incorporated into the integrated rear spoiler.

Dermot Kelly, Managing Director Mercedes-Benz Cars UK said: "smart owners love to personalise their cars and these accessories mean that they can make their smart ownership experience even more unique.

"Like the smart, these new stickers and BRABUS accessories are innovative in their design and made to a very high standard. What's more, all are completely reversible too, meaning that owners can easily change their car back to standard specification should their tastes change or if they are upgrading to another smart and wish to sell their existing model."

smart fortwo owners to be 'stuck' on new accessories

Any press release dated April 1 is a potential disinformation landmine, but news of Smart's latest attempt to make the ForTwo enticing seems legit. The diminutive Smart ForTwo has fallen on its face in the North American market, down 61 percent this March versus last year, and judging from the latest bit of groundbreaking marketing from Smart's UK outpost, the word is out that there's not much "there" there.

Adding stickers and interior customization options to a car that's having a tough time in the marketplace is the auto sales equivalent of adding a cute kid to the cast of a failing sitcom. Smart has gone there by collaborating with Germany's Timo Wuerz to design new foil stickers for the ForTwo's Tridion safety cell. Patterns include skylines, stars, and flowers. Everybody w00t as you tweet the news. Brabus has been sucked into it, too, affixing its name to a carbon fiber-look applique package for the interior. There's a Brabus LED daytime running light package as well, that's actually a functional option.

Stickers can't do a thing about the dismal driving experience the thing exhibits in U.S. trim, though. At least it'll look extra trendy parked nose-in to the curb somewhere.

via:autoblog






Press Release

smart fortwo owners to be 'stuck'
on new accessories

smart fortwo enthusiasts can now put the power into flower power, fly the flag for the iconic brand and even give their car wings with the new smart art stickers.

The new adhesive foil stickers comprise six striking motifs that enable owners to customise their smart with designs that include a classic black, white and blue racing pattern along with variations on flowers, skylines and even birds' wings and stars.

Designed by acclaimed German artist Timo Wuerz in collaboration with Mercedes-Benz Accessories GmbH, the stickers are applied to the tridion safety cell to provide an attractive contrast to the other body panels. When correctly affixed the stickers last for approximately five years but they can also be removed at any time without leaving any traces.

The stickers are available from all smart retailers and are priced at £182 (including VAT). The retailer can apply the stickers on request and fitting takes approximately one hour.

smart owners can also personalise their car's interior with the new range of BRABUS interior contrast components. Featuring a carbon-fibre look, the eight-piece set comprises trims and covers for the dashboard instruments, steering-column stalk, instrument cluster, door handles and centre console. The package costs £256 (including VAT) and can be ordered and fitted at any official smart retailer.

more...


smart fortwo owners to be 'stuck' on new accessories...2

Completing the new additions to the stylish range of BRABUS accessories is the new BRABUS LED daytime driving lights. These can be retrofitted and not only look good, but enhance safety too. These advanced lights can be combined with all standard main headlights and smart owners can choose between two versions in chrome or black, both of which are priced at £486 (including VAT). The impressive lighting technology can be retrofitted at the back too, the BRABUS third LED brake light now being available for £178 (including VAT) and incorporated into the integrated rear spoiler.

Dermot Kelly, Managing Director Mercedes-Benz Cars UK said: "smart owners love to personalise their cars and these accessories mean that they can make their smart ownership experience even more unique.

"Like the smart, these new stickers and BRABUS accessories are innovative in their design and made to a very high standard. What's more, all are completely reversible too, meaning that owners can easily change their car back to standard specification should their tastes change or if they are upgrading to another smart and wish to sell their existing model."

GQBYCITROËN – DESIGNED BY CITROËN. TAILORED BY SAVILE ROW. MADE WITH GQ.

Citroën and GQ have revealed a unique and exciting automotive project – the GQbyCITROËN.

The GQbyCITROËN is a concept car born through a unique partnership between the UK's market-leading quality men's monthly and a team of Citroën designers, collaborating to create the ultimate gentleman's drive. This is the first time a British magazine has collaborated with a car company in this way.


Responding to a brief by GQ's editor, Dylan Jones, Citroën's team, headed by British designer – and the man responsible for the new Citroën DS3 – Mark Lloyd, took a new look at the GT theme and integrated it with a typical Citroën design approach bringing GQbyCITROËN from design outline to concept reality.

GQbyCITROËN combines classically sophisticated features and contemporary styling with a sculpted front end, rounded rear, strong body contours and sleek concave rear windscreen – a signature Citroën design.


The car's cabin is accessed by rear coach doors and reveals a spacious, comfortable and futuristic cabin. Completing the car's bespoke styling, the interior detailing and upholstery selections were provided by Patrick Grant, the Creative Director of prestigious Savile Row tailors, E.Tautz, who commented: "Savile Row is all about balance and Tautz's simple military inspired interior is the perfect counterpoint to the Gallic flair of the exterior."


Dylan Jones commented: "I wanted something practical, something cool, and something idiosyncratic – i.e. something surprising that didn't just look like a concept car. The GQ car needed to have the 'want' factor, but it also needed to look, feel and 'drive' like the sort of car no sane man could choose to ignore. We think it looks very very special."

Dynamic performance and environmental responsibility were also key requirements for the project. The GQbyCITROËN concept car is powered by a plug-in Hybrid with a 1,598cc, 4-cylinder direct injection petrol engine offering a sporty 0-60mph time of just 4.5seconds, an electronically limited top speed of 155mph and CO2 emissions of just 80g/km.


Mark Lloyd, Chief Designer of Citroën's International Projects added: "Where this car works so well with GQ is that it fits with the current attitudes of conspicuous consumption. It is understated rather than in-your-face and sleek rather than too macho. With the skills of a Savile Row tailor on the car's interior we have also achieved that bespoke, fitted feel, both inside and out.


"For me, the car that has always represented the pinnacle of automotive excellence and refinement is the GT – the Grand Tourer. It is not the all-out sports car, rather it is something gentlemanly, it has performance and it is for travelling, not racing. We wanted to create something that, like GQ, was aspirational, but also retained the classic automotive ideals. We didn't want a car for the mass market. We wanted a car for GQ.'"

The GQbyCITROËN is featured in the April issue of GQ out March 4th 2010. For more information visit: www.gqbycitroen.co.uk.
More Photos

GQBYCITROËN – DESIGNED BY CITROËN. TAILORED BY SAVILE ROW. MADE WITH GQ.

Citroën and GQ have revealed a unique and exciting automotive project – the GQbyCITROËN.

The GQbyCITROËN is a concept car born through a unique partnership between the UK's market-leading quality men's monthly and a team of Citroën designers, collaborating to create the ultimate gentleman's drive. This is the first time a British magazine has collaborated with a car company in this way.


Responding to a brief by GQ's editor, Dylan Jones, Citroën's team, headed by British designer – and the man responsible for the new Citroën DS3 – Mark Lloyd, took a new look at the GT theme and integrated it with a typical Citroën design approach bringing GQbyCITROËN from design outline to concept reality.

GQbyCITROËN combines classically sophisticated features and contemporary styling with a sculpted front end, rounded rear, strong body contours and sleek concave rear windscreen – a signature Citroën design.


The car's cabin is accessed by rear coach doors and reveals a spacious, comfortable and futuristic cabin. Completing the car's bespoke styling, the interior detailing and upholstery selections were provided by Patrick Grant, the Creative Director of prestigious Savile Row tailors, E.Tautz, who commented: "Savile Row is all about balance and Tautz's simple military inspired interior is the perfect counterpoint to the Gallic flair of the exterior."


Dylan Jones commented: "I wanted something practical, something cool, and something idiosyncratic – i.e. something surprising that didn't just look like a concept car. The GQ car needed to have the 'want' factor, but it also needed to look, feel and 'drive' like the sort of car no sane man could choose to ignore. We think it looks very very special."

Dynamic performance and environmental responsibility were also key requirements for the project. The GQbyCITROËN concept car is powered by a plug-in Hybrid with a 1,598cc, 4-cylinder direct injection petrol engine offering a sporty 0-60mph time of just 4.5seconds, an electronically limited top speed of 155mph and CO2 emissions of just 80g/km.


Mark Lloyd, Chief Designer of Citroën's International Projects added: "Where this car works so well with GQ is that it fits with the current attitudes of conspicuous consumption. It is understated rather than in-your-face and sleek rather than too macho. With the skills of a Savile Row tailor on the car's interior we have also achieved that bespoke, fitted feel, both inside and out.


"For me, the car that has always represented the pinnacle of automotive excellence and refinement is the GT – the Grand Tourer. It is not the all-out sports car, rather it is something gentlemanly, it has performance and it is for travelling, not racing. We wanted to create something that, like GQ, was aspirational, but also retained the classic automotive ideals. We didn't want a car for the mass market. We wanted a car for GQ.'"

The GQbyCITROËN is featured in the April issue of GQ out March 4th 2010. For more information visit: www.gqbycitroen.co.uk.
More Photos

Geneva 2010: Jaguar unveils the ultimate XKR Special Edition

Jaguar will unveil the latest dramatic evolution of its supercharged XKR coupe at the Geneva Motor Show. The stunning new XKR Special Edition delivers a significantly raised maximum speed – 174mph (280km/h) – and bold exterior styling changes that create the ultimate supercharged Jaguar.

The XKR Special Edition combines a number of new features and option packs that are introduced to the XK range at 2011 Model Year. Jaguar customers have the option to personalise their vehicle by building on the existing XKR package to deliver a car that offers even greater performance without sacrificing the refinement and luxury for which every Jaguar is renowned.

Introduced last year, the XKR boasts a state-of-the-art 5.0-litre supercharged AJ-V8 Gen III R engine that delivers 510PS (510bhp SAE), 625Nm of torque and propels the coupe to 60mph in just 4.6 seconds. Now, in Special Edition guise, the XKR's top speed climbs significantly from an electronically limited 155mph (250km/h) to 174mph (280km/h) thanks to the addition of the Speed Pack. Allied to that remarkable engine is an advanced six-speed automatic transmission with steering-wheel mounted paddles, lightweight aluminium body structure and a range of computer-controlled systems including Active Differential Control and Adaptive Dynamics that ensure the supercharged car accelerates even faster, handles even more precisely and sets new standards of ride and comfort.

The benefits of the XKR's lightweight but stiff and strong advanced all aluminium body are already acknowledged. Not only does this architecture bring dynamic benefits thanks to its torsional rigidity, it also offers excellent safety and crash repair features and provides the ideal base to improve performance across the board – including optimised fuel economy and CO2 emissions. Thanks to the combination of excellent powertrain efficiency and the XKR's advanced lightweight body architecture, its fuel economy is comparable to the previous generation of XKR – despite the significant increases in power and performance.

The XKR Special Edition pairs the optional Speed and Black Packs to create the bold new model unveiled in Geneva, which also sports optional Piano Black veneers on the dashboard and red brake callipers. Both option packs are also available separately for customers who seek to personalise their cars in terms of either styling or additional performance. Whatever combination is chosen, every XKR delivers that classic Jaguar blend of seductive, powerful and elegant looks, beautifully finished interiors and even more comprehensive specification.

The driver is the centre of attention in the XKR Special Edition, with exciting new features including the acclaimed JaguarDrive Selector™, and high levels of specification such as the 7-inch Touch-Screen, 16-way heated and cooled memory seats, Jet Suedecloth premium headlining and Flint Grey premium carpet. In addition, a bespoke new Jaguar XK suitcase (which will be available as an option for all XK models) has been fashioned for the XKR Special Edition. From 2010, the Jaguar XK range (UK and certain European markets only) will be fitted with the tyre repair Instant Mobility System. By adopting IMS on all models, the XK frees up its 30-litre wheel well, which is now carpeted and can hold the specially designed and tailored XK accessory suitcase, substantially increasing the versatility of the car.


THE NEW 2011 XKR OPTION PACKS

The new 2011 Jaguar XKR Special Edition consists of two new styling and performance packs – the Speed and Black Pack. Both are available to XKR coupe customers separately and provide new levels of styling and performance for owners looking to further personalise their Jaguar.


The XKR Speed Pack

The XKR with new optional Speed Pack allows customers to further strengthen their XKR's already impressive breadth of capability, by extending the car's top speed from 155mph (250km/h) to an electronically limited 174mph (280km/h), thanks to a unique engine and transmission recalibration.

To ensure the XKR with Speed Pack remains stable at high speeds, the coupe uses a revised front aerodynamic splitter and larger rear spoiler to provide increased balance and a reduction in lift. The XKR's computerised Active Differential Control also adjusts to reduce steering sensitivity at very high speeds, further improving stability and driver control.

Customers who order the XKR coupe with the Speed Pack will be offered a paint palette that is part of the Jaguar Designers' Choice programme – a range of colours that have been specifically chosen to compliment the performance potential of the car. Seven colours are available on Speed Pack models – Ultimate Black, Polaris White, Salsa Red, Liquid Silver, Lunar Grey, Kyanite Blue and Spectrum Blue.

Every XKR with the Speed Pack will come with body-coloured side sills and rear diffuser, and a chrome finish to the window surrounds, upper and lower mesh grilles, side Power Vents and boot lid finisher. Red brake callipers with a Jaguar 'R' logo sit inside 20-inch Kasuga alloy wheels.

By raising the XKR's maximum speed the new car has extended its sporting credentials, taking it even further into supercar performance territory. Russ Varney, Chief Programme Engineer, XK Series, explains the philosophy behind the uprated XKR:

"With 510PS and 625Nm of torque, the XKR has immense reserves of power and acceleration which impress everyone who experience it. The car has always had the potential to reach speeds far beyond its original electronically limited maximum and many of our customers have expressed an interest in a car that can safely be driven faster where conditions permit. The new Speed Pack allows them to release some of that potential and give them control of the fastest Jaguar XK we've made to date."

The performance potential of the supercharged AJ-V8 Gen III R engine comes courtesy of its highly advanced design. The all-aluminium four-cam power unit has a number of features that deliver power with very high efficiency, including spray-guided direct injection (SGDI), which improves performance and economy, and dual independent variable cam timing (DIVCT), which benefits performance and economy, while also reducing emissions.

The AJ-V8 engine is built around a stiff, aluminium block with cast-in iron liners and cross-bolted main bearing caps to reduce noise, vibration and harshness. The block is high pressure die-cast, providing a superior finish and greater dimensional accuracy. The engine uses aluminium heads, with four valves per cylinder and spheroidal-graphite cast-iron crankshafts and forged steel connecting rods. The cylinder heads for the first time are specified with a secondary (recycled) aluminium alloy thus reducing the environmental impact of manufacturing the new engine.

A sixth-generation, twin vortex system supercharger is fitted to the XKR's 510PS engine. It is a compact Roots-type unit, feeding air through twin intercoolers, which in turn are water-cooled by their own discreet cooling circuit. The high helix rotor design improves the supercharger thermodynamic efficiency by more than 20 percent over its predecessor. It also improves noise quality to the point where the unit is virtually inaudible (making supercharger whine a thing of the past). The intercoolers reduce the temperature of the pressurised intake-air and so optimise power and efficiency. Mechanically, the new supercharger and its intercoolers are efficiently packaged in the 'V' of the engine to deliver a lower overall engine height in support of pedestrian safety requirements.

An industry-first, centrally-mounted, six-hole, spray-guided fuel injection system delivers fuel at a pressure of up to 150bar directly to the cylinder. This substantially contributes to improved low-speed, dynamic response. The positioning of the injectors ensures fuel is precisely delivered to the centre of the combustion chamber, maximising air-fuel mixing and improving combustion control. Fuel is delivered through twin, high-pressure fuel pumps that are driven via an auxiliary shaft in the all-new engine block.

The charge cooling effects of the direct-injection fuel system have allowed the compression ratio of the supercharged engine to increase from 9.1:1 to 9.5:1, further optimising fuel economy. During the engine warm-up phase, the combustion system employs multiple injection mode strategies to deliver 50 percent more heat for fast catalyst warm-up and emissions reduction.

A new type of variable camshaft timing (VCT) system introduces another new technology. The four VCT units are activated by the positive and negative torques generated by opening and closing the intake and exhaust valves, instead of by oil pressure. This has allowed the engine oil pump to be reduced in size, saving energy and improving fuel consumption.

VCT units work independently on all four camshafts with 62 degrees of authority on the inlet cams and 50 degrees of authority on the exhaust cams. Timing is optimised by the engine control unit for torque, power and economy at every point in the engine's speed range. The new VCT units are capable of a response rate up to three times faster than in previous Jaguar engines, with actuation rates in excess of 150 degrees per second. This delivers a more immediate engine response to the driver's demand for power.

Minimising internal friction is key to improving fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, and as such was a key aim when it came to the design of the engines. As a result, the new Jaguar AJ-V8 Gen III engines achieve another best in class, setting a new industry benchmark for cranktrain efficiency.

All engine bearings were engineered for reduced friction without compromising reliability. Diamond-Like Carbon Coating (DLC) has been used to reduce friction on the fuel pump tappets and a solid film lubricant has been used to coat the piston skirts. New engine oil has a lower viscosity, contributing to an extension in
service intervals from 10,000 miles to 15,000 miles (or 12 months). The V8 engine is fitted with an electronic oil-level indicator for added peace of mind.

Sound quality is a key characteristic of all Jaguars and is one particular aspect that customers relish. With that in mind, Jaguar engineers have accentuated the acoustic feedback into the cabin in order to further enhance the driving pleasure.

In addition to the fully active exhaust system in which valves open to provide a more rewarding note, the new XKR has been engineered to provide an intake feedback system to enhance the V8 sound character commonly absent on supercharged engines. Intake manifold pressure pulsations are fed into an acoustic filter at the rear of the engine that is tuned to provide an edgy sports car 'crescendo' at high revs. The filter is controlled by the engine management system, which only allows the sound to enter the cabin under the appropriate driving conditions.

The new intake feedback system combined with the fully active exhaust system provides the most exhilarating aural experience yet delivered on a Jaguar.


The XKR Black Pack

For customers looking to create a real statement with their XKR, the new optional Black Pack allows them to own a bold and purposeful Jaguar with undeniable visual impact thanks to menacing gloss black wheels and exterior detailing.

Like the Speed Pack, XKRs fitted with the Black Pack have a paint palette that is restricted to colours that Jaguar's Design team believe to be ideal for creating a coupe with immediate exclusivity. The Black Pack models will be available in Ultimate Black, Polaris White or Salsa Red and boast eye-catching 20-inch gloss black Kalimnos alloy wheels. Further gloss black finishing is applied to the window surrounds, front grilles and side Power Vents. Optional red painted brake callipers contrast strongly with the black alloy wheels, while body coloured front and rear spoilers and boot lid finisher round out the package. Customers also have the option to apply a sweeping 'XKR' side body graphic that runs along the door sills.

Jaguar's Design Director, Ian Callum, says the new Black Pack is a fitting addition to the XKR:

"While Jaguars are about beauty, they are also about speed and power. With the optional Black Pack you can now add a sense of drama and severity to that performance."

In addition to the Black Pack's exterior changes, the Jaguar Designers' Choice programme has also selected a range of interior trims that support the visual impact of the car. All XKRs with the Black Pack will be trimmed with Charcoal leather hides that can be personalised with a range of colour stitching and grain. Three interior finishes and veneers for the fascia and door trims are also available – Dark Oak, Dark Mesh Aluminium and Piano Black.

Whatever interior trim is selected, the XKR's cabin is evidence of contemporary, sporting luxury, exceptional quality of craftsmanship, and Jaguar's renowned attention to detail. The interior is clean, elegant and spacious, and remains entirely in harmony with the sporting character of the revised exterior.

The latest feature enhancements are showcased by the JaguarDrive Selector™, which is neatly and elegantly packaged in the centre console. First seen on the Jaguar XF saloon, the JaguarDrive Selector™ features a rotary shift control which rises into the driver's hand as the car is started, to give intuitive, ergonomically efficient transmission control from a neat, space-efficient interface.

The selector is, in fact, much more than just an unobtrusive yet completely practical solution to selecting an automatic gear mode. It also imbues the car with a strong driver 'handshake' – get into an XKR and the start button in front of the JaguarDrive Selector™ pulses red, like a heartbeat; press this button to start the engine and the cast alloy JaguarDrive Selector™ rises into the palm of your hand.

From there, automatic transmission functions are selected simply by turning the control with the fingertips. As an example, Drive to Drive Sport selection is accomplished with a simple push and turn action. Returning from S to D, the rotary control operates with spring-assistance, which eliminates the need to pull the Selector. It couldn't be simpler. And when the engine is stopped, the JaguarDrive Selector™ returns automatically to its Park position.

The welcome to the car is also enhanced by bright treadplate inserts. Many of the other changes emphasise high levels of Jaguar craftsmanship with jewel-like touches. The three-spoke steering wheel contains a leather-wrapped lower spoke, and Jaguar's striking 'growler' badge. The XKR's instruments further emphasise the car's performance character with red pointers and white illumination.

The door casings are even more luxuriously crafted than before, with saddle-stitched lines and a new interlayer to give a softer touch to the top shoulder of the casing. The leather door pulls also introduce
twin-needle stitching and a soft-feel interlayer. In each door, the modified seat switch pack includes single-piece chrome 'highlight' switches.

In true, contemporary Jaguar fashion, a great deal of relevant and intuitive technology is controlled by the clear and elegant seven-inch Touch-screen in the centre console. The Touch-screen provides access and control for the Climate Control and Audio systems, for the Satellite Navigation System, for Bluetooth mobile connectivity, and for Jaguar's Portable Audio Interface – which are all standard equipment. The satellite navigation system offers DVD mapping, postcode entry, and a traffic message channel. The Portable Audio Interface offers iPod connectivity, and the connection of other storage devices through a USB port, to the in-car sound system, with full Touch-screen control.

The audio system for the new XKR is the ultimate Bowers & Wilkins 525-watt system with Dolby® ProLogic®II Surround Sound, three-channel stereo with unique amplifier, Kevlar mid-range speakers with high output and low distortion, and specially designed aluminium tweeters.

Depending on market, a number of Digital Radio options are available: HD radio is available for North American market cars, SDARS satellite radio for North America and Canada, and Digital Audio Broadcasting (DAB) is offered in selected European markets.



More Photos