Street Legal Ferrari FXX by Edo Competition

German super tuner edo competition, who somehow do not feel the need to capitalize their name, claim to have made the Ferrari FXX race car a street legal vee-hickle (go ahead, say it like you were Johnny Cash). Or maybe they're just driving on the streets with an FXX race car and taunting the cops, as seen in the video here. The fine folks at edo competition say that with a few add-ons they've manage to obey all the laws for a street-worthy vehicle in Germany. A proper windshield, all the required lighting, hand brake, and an exhaust system that makes the FXX meet all emissions standards. A new suspension has also been added with damping and adjustable compression.No mention of bumpers, though, which one would think would be the first thing you'd need to make a race car street legal. Otherwise, scraping a cement pillar at the local shopping mall with your new FXX may become an expensive lesson in obeying the law. [Source: Edo via autoblog ]

 

First Test: 2009 Aston Martin DBS Touchtronic

It's not unusual for Her Majesty's Secret Servant to employ the same car in more than one movie. The iconic DB5 appeared in "Goldfinger" and "Thunderball," so why not let 007 have another go at Aston's freshened flagship, the DBS, for "Quantum of Solace?" For 2009, the DBS offers the optional availability of a six-speed automatic transaxle, 2+2 seating, a new 20-inch wheel package, and a Bang & Olufsen audio system. The DBS shares its layout and architecture with the DB9, but is much sportier and differentiated enough to earn its own name. Available in coupe form only, its sinuous body is crafted of aluminum and carbon fiber. There's no change underhood: 510 horsepower still boils out the same 5.9-liter V-12 the model was launched with in late 2007. This is our first track test of a DBS, and it has the goods to honor the badge on its bonnet. With a 0-to-60 time of 4.2 seconds, grip at 0.96 g, a 60-to-0 stopping distance of 106 feet, it's the quickest, stickiest, and shortest-stopping Aston Martin we've ever tested. And it feels so good doing it. The engine whirs and warbles as only a V-12 can. There's a ton of grip and good body control, yet the ride harshness isn't over the top. The new trans isn't as responsive as the best dual-autoclutch units, but lets you be in command. In manual mode, there are no downshifts even when you floor it, and it will hold gears to redline (which unfortunately isn't marked on the tach). Fire up the new B&O audio package and speaker towers rise out of the dash, looking for all the world like props from a Ken Adam Bond set. The system's imaging, clarity, and transparency are impressive. The rest of the cabin is a study in leather, Alcantara, aluminum, French stitching, and satin-finished carbon fiber. It's too bad the key fob looks like it came out of a 10-year-old rental car. Aston Martin's DBS walks a smart line between GT and sports car and is an eminently desirable piece. The new color, by the way, is named Quantum Silver, after the movie of a similar name. [source:MotorTrend]

 

First Look: 2010 Porsche Panamera

For Porsche, the Porsche 911 has been both a blessing, and a curse. A blessing in that it has seems to have transcended the usual automotive evolutionary process; a curse in that the car still, in many ways, defines the entire company. Porsche has attempted to break the mold numerous times over the past three decades -- remember the 928, and the 924/944/968? But until the Boxster -- a clever product development by former R&D chief Horst Marchart that delivered two cars (the 996 edition 911 and the Boxster) -- Porsche remained in the thrall of the 911. Today, Porsche still fields a line-up of cars that is 75% rear-engined. Which makes the new Panamera -- a front engined, four door sports Porsche -- a bold move, despite the success of the Cayenne SUV. When it hits the market next year, the Panamera will be fighting a two-front battle against the Aston Martin Rapide from the north and more than likely Lamborghini Estoque from the south in a few years' time (though Lambo boss Stefan Winkelmann insists the car has yet to be given the green light). The four door sports car category is brand new, but already the field is getting crowded. You need to understand two important things about the Panamera's development. First, Porsche boss Wendelin Wiedeking, who's 6ft 2 in., insisted he had to be able to sit comfortably in the back seat. Second, it had to look like a Porsche. Those two facts drove the entire program -- and are the reason why the Panamera looks slightly awkward in profile. The top-end Panamera-variants will do battle with upper crust four-door coupes like the Aston Martin Rapide At 195.7 in., the Panamera is longer than a Cayenne by 6.9 inches and almost the exact same width at 76 inches to the Cayenne's 75.9. It's no SUV though, standing only 55.8 inches tall. Porsche hasn't released the Panamera's weight, but despite its dimensions, insiders insist extensive use of materials such as aluminum and magnesium mean the car will be among the lightest large four doors in the business. Performance will be impressive, thanks to a line up of direct injection engines derived from those used in the Cayenne SUV. Base engine will be a 300hp, 3.6-liter V-6. The volume selling version in the U.S. is expected to be the 400hp, 4.8-liter naturally aspirated V-8. Power junkies will be lining up for the V-8 Turbo, which will boast 500hp. Despite their outputs and performance, all the Panameras will be significantly more fuel efficient than similarly powered S-Class Mercedes or BMW 7 series sedans, insiders claim. [source:MotorTrend]

 

LA Auto Show 2008: Ferrari California comes home

The Ferrari California delves into new territory for Ferrari, both in theme and design. Many faithful to the marque may be against its styling, but the true test will be sales numbers. As Porsche has proved over the last few years, the addition of successful new models can be a valuable asset to a company's finances, and we're all in favor of Ferrari's increased capability to improve the breed. The LA Auto Show is the first time we've seen the car in its namesake state, and we took the chance to give it another close inspection after our recent first encounter with the Ferrari California in Sicily. The style is definitely growing on us, and we dearly loved the car in Azzurro Blue. Still on the fence?

 

Porsche confirms updated Boxster and Cayman for L.A.

Porsche has confirmed that it will take the wraps off its next generation mid-engine sports cars at this week's Los Angeles Auto Show, along with the display of a number of very important models from the carmaker's history. The new models are the 2010 facelifted Cayman and Boxster sports cars, which images for leaked unexpectedly late last month. While Porsche is yet to release any significant details, the carmaker has confirmed that both cars will feature new engine and transmission technology as well as many other significant technical and exterior refinements. These are expected to include the addition of Porsche's dual-clutch PDK gearbox and direct-injection engine upgrades.

 

New images of the DC Design Ambierod

For anyone unfamiliar with DC Design, the firm is an Indian automotive design and coachbuilding group that has a penchant for creating wild customized vehicles with styling inspiration taken from Rolls Royce cars. The firm is probably most widely recognized for its striking scissor-door Rolls Royce coupe from a couple of years back, but it has recently unveiled another wild coupe with Rolls Royce styling, this time based on one of the oldest cars to come out of India, the Hindustan Ambassador. The latest creation is the Ambierod, which was first unveiled at the New Delhi Motor Show at the start of this year. DC Design Rolls Royce Coupe

 

Porsche Cayenne GTS by JE DESIGN

German tuning house JE DESIGN previously specialized in customizing cars from Seat, such as the Leon Cupra hot-hatch we reported on last year. Gradually, the tuner has taken its hand at customizing large SUVs from the Volkswagen Group, such as the VW Touareg and Audi Q7. The firm has now developed an extensive customization program for the Porsche Cayenne GTS, as well as the Turbo and Turbo S SUVs. The JE DESIGN styling program for the Porsche Cayenne models includes a front and rear skirt extension made of fiberglass or optional carbon. JE DESIGN Porsche Cayenne GTS

 

Audi R8 GT3 race car spied at the Nurburgring

Audi's motorsport division announced plans back in August to launch a 500hp-plus (373kW) version of the R8 for use in next year's GT3 series, and now a prototype for the race car has been spied testing at Germany's Nurburgring. The new car has been designed for private customer teams and fully conforms to the production-based GT3 regulations, which means they will be allowable in numerous national and international competitions. Because the GT3 regulations prohibit the use of AWD, the Audi R8 comes with a modified RWD powertrain and a newly developed six-speed sequential sports gearbox. Audi R8 GT3 customer race car

 

Citroen GT Concept (2008)

You can download wallpaper gallery with 37 wallpapers in it right here DOWNLOAD PICTURES The amazing GT by CITROËN is the first ever car to be specifically designed to bring the virtual and real worlds together. The car makes its global premiere at the Paris Motor Show where visitors can actually drive the car in a true to life simulator on the Citroën stand. GT by CITROËN, a joint venture between Citroën and the makers of Gran Turismo, was created for the eagerly anticipated 5th game in the multi-million selling Playstation series. At almost five metres long, GT by CITROËN packs the latest hi-tech racing equipment into an exaggerated sporty frame. Planted on 21-inch, diamond-effect, aluminium wheels, the car's gullwing doors, over-sized rear end with mobile spoiler, gaping air intakes and flat underside exude the qualities of an accomplished racer. With chrome chevrons on the smooth, aerodynamic, front end asserting the car's Citroën identity, the GT by CITROËN is bursting with styling cues typical of the Company's creative flair. The sharp lines and sculpted body are emphasised by the white-to-grey flared paint work which gives the car a forceful look and an impression of speed - even when it's standing still. The sleekly muscled racer sports a large wraparound windscreen adding to the impact of the car's size and dynamic appearance. Penetrating blue LED headlamps and slim-line carbon fibre rear view mirrors - which appear to be suspended in mid-air - add to GT by CITROËN's futuristic racing style. Premium materials used throughout GT by CITROËN's hi-tech interior reflect the car's distinguished and refined personality. In contrast to its light body work, the cabin features a darker, more brooding colour scheme with two padded racing seats finished in black leather and fitted with four point harnesses. The dark leather, along with copper and steel touches inside the cabin and a low-slung driving position, create an opulent and powerful racing environment. Important on-board data is displayed via a red LED head-up display, allowing drivers to maintain focus on the track. In the game, the GT by CITROËN showcases Citroën's dedication to the environment with an electric drive train powered by a fuel cell, totally eliminating pollutant emissions. Kazanori Yamauchi, President of Polyphony Digital Inc and creator of Gran Turismo, commented, "GT by CITROËN shows how the worlds of virtual and real-life motoring can join together to create a truly innovative partnership. To see the GT by CITROËN take shape in our game studios and then for real has been a truly unique experience - as our work normally stays in the digital world."

 

Renault Megane Trophy (2009)

You can download photo gallery with 9 wallpapers right here DOWNLOAD PICTURES Having starred in the World Series by Renault's premier saloon car championship since the creation of the WSR in 2005, Renault Mégane Trophy has undergone a raft of radical modifications in readiness for the 2009 campaign. The most visible change concerns its new body design which takes its inspiration from the lines of New Mégane Coupe. Under the bonnet, a fresh look has also been taken at the Renault-Nissan Alliance's V6 3.5 24V powerplant which now delivers 360hp. At the same time, Renault Sport Technologies has carried over many of the acclaimed features of the current Renault Mégane Trophy to produce a reliable, competitive and affordable racing car. There can be no mistaking new Renault Mégane Trophy's resolutely sporty calling and pedigree thanks its stunning looks which are based on the design of new Renault Mégane Coupe. The front and rear light units and windscreen are those of the road car, while the designers at the Renault Technocentre have made full use of digital simulation technology in the realm of fluid mechanics to hone the flowing lines of the bodywork. New Renault Mégane Trophy also carries over the ground effect aerodynamics of the existing car: The front splitter channels airflow to the extractors Rear downforce is generated by the diffuser and wing Refinements to the set-up have produced a 20% improvement in downforce and a 15% reduction in drag which, together, represent a gain of almost 40% in terms of the new car's aerodynamic performance over the previous generation machine. New Renault Mégane Trophy is equipped with butterfly doors redolent of the world of GT and sports-prototype racing. Under its composite outer skin, new Renault Mégane Trophy features the same mechanicals as the current car, including an FIA-homologated sports-prototype tubular chassis, a mid-rear V6 3.5 24V engine, a semiautomatic gearbox with steering wheel-mounted paddle shift, double wishbone suspension with adjustable dampers, 18-inch wheels and Michelin tyres, etc. A new inlet manifold, which is fed by roof-mounted air-ducts, has taken engine power from 330 to 360hp. The new car's reliability is as excellent as ever with rebuild intervals of every 5,500km. Combined with the aerodynamic gains, the extra power output of the V6 3.5 24V engine will enable new Renault Mégane Trophy to lap in times similar to those of a Porsche GT3. After completion of its development programme, new Renault Mégane Trophy will go on sale at the end of the year in the form of a kit that will enable existing cars to be upgraded. The modifications required to adapt the chassis to the new bodywork will be carried out by the Alpine factory in Dieppe. As in previous years, the Eurocup Renault Mégane Trophy will form part of the World Series by Renault programme and its calendar takes in some of Europe's most prestigious venues. This single-make series, which is a hit with drivers and teams alike, is based on the same core strengths that have forged the success of Renault Sport's race championships, namely: A perfectly level playing field thanks to rigorous scrutineering checks and the outlawing of tuning of the majority of components Contained costs thanks to restrictions relating to tyres and private testing Extensive media coverage thanks to live television, plus the opportunity to race in meetings that have attracted two million spectators since 2005 In the course of each race weekend, drivers contest two races of a duration of approximately 40 minutes each and which include a mandatory refuelling stop. Renault Mégane Trophy has been widely praised for its simplicity and the ease with which drivers are able to familiarize themselves with the cars, while the series is aimed at upcoming youngsters who have come up through the ranks of single-seater formulae and gentleman drivers.

 

Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster 722 S (2009)

The new Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster 722 S opens up astonishing dimensions when it comes to open-top driving. Delivering 478 kW/650 hp, acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.7 seconds and a maximum speed of 335 km/h, this two-seater cabriolet surpasses the existing benchmark among open-top super sports cars - the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster. Both vehicles feature a fully retractable folding soft top capable of withstanding the high speed and are made of carbon fibre. This endows both models with a very high degree of safety and extreme torsional stiffness. In addition to increased power, the new Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster 722 S features even more dynamic suspension tuning and improved aerodynamics. While enjoying exceptional performance, the new roadster's occupants in no way lose out in terms of comfort or the vehicle's suitability for everyday use. With its sporty, premium-quality interior appointments and distinctive motorsport pedigree, the new Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster 722 S is limited to 150 vehicles and will inspire the most discerning automotive enthusiasts. Spectacular dimensions in open-top driving are opened up by the new Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster 722 S. With an output of 478 kW/650 hp, acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.7 seconds and a top speed of 335 km/h, this open two-seater betters the standard set for open-air super-sports cars by the SLR McLaren Roadster. Both have a fully recessible soft top suitable for high speed driving, and are made from carbon fibre. This produces a very high level of safety and extremely high torsional strength. In addition to a higher engine output, the new Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster 722 S has an even more dynamic suspension setup and further aerodynamic improvements. By naming this new model variant the SLR Roadster 722 S, Mercedes-Benz is recalling the historic victory won at the classic Mille Miglia long-distance race in 1955 by British motor-racing legend Stirling Moss and his co-driver Dennis Jenkinson, in a Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR with the starting number 722. The Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster 722 S continues the legend of the successful 1950s SLR racing sports cars, with innovative technology adopted from the world of motorsport. Engine hand-built by AMG The powerful heart of the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster 722 S is a supercharged 5.5-litre V8 engine which is hand-built in the Mercedes-AMG engine shop in Affalterbach. The special strengths of this high-performance engine include extraordinary responsiveness to movements of the accelerator, a high torque and an unmistakable V8 sound. Moreover, with an output of 478 kW/650 hp and 820 Nm of torque, power is on tap almost to excess (SLR McLaren Roadster: 460 kW/626 hp, 780 Nm). Accordingly the new model variant meets the wishes of the most discerning customers for even more sportiness combined with excellent day-to-day practicality. The five-speed automatic transmission developed by Mercedes-Benz is designed for high performance. It is specially configured for a very high torque, and allows the driver to choose between two sets of shift characteristics. As a result the roadster achieves performance figures that are even outstanding for the high-end sports car segment: the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster 722 S absolves a sprint from zero to 100 km/h in a breathtaking 3.7 seconds, and 200 km/h is reached in 10.6 seconds. The maximum speed is 335 km/h, which is unrivalled by any other series-production roadster. Even more dynamic suspension setup The spring and shock absorber configurations of the suspension are stiffer, and the body has been lowered by 10 millimetres at the front and rear. This ensures the greater handling stability of the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster 722 S, with a significant improvement in handling dynamics. The lightweight, 19-inch forged aluminium wheels allow a view of the red-painted brake callipers on the highly-resistant carbon-fibre/ceramic brake discs, which make for impressive deceleration figures. Sophisticated aerodynamics and a fabric soft top suited to high-speed driving The outstanding qualities of the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster 722 S are complemented by the fully recessible fabric soft top, which blends harmoniously into the flowing lines of the roadster. The weave structure of this high-tech roof material reflects the carbon-fibre look, guarantees full day-to-day suitability in any weather conditions and allows the vehicle a top speed of 335 km/h - a unusual figure for a roadster. Thanks to favourable aeroacoustics, conversation during open-air journeys is still possible at well over 200 km/h. The soft top opens and closes semi-automatically in around ten seconds, combining comfort expectations with the purist nature of the roadster. For opening, the roof needs to be unlatched at the windscreen frame and lifted slightly, after which it folds down electrically. The front section of the soft top features an integral aluminium cap, which effectively prevents "ballooning" at high speeds. The handling and aerodynamics of this high-end roadster were optimised for high speeds in the wind tunnel. The aerodynamic concept follows that of the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Coupe, with an airbrake integrated into the boot lid, an enclosed underbody and a diffusor in the rear bumper to ensure the greatest possible downforce on the rear axle. The so-called airsplitter at the front end augments this downforce, while small wheel spoilers reduce turbulence at the rear axle. The result is precise handling and steering at high speeds. Outstanding performance and safety thanks to carbon fibre technology  In technical terms the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster 722 S benefits from the long experience of Mercedes-Benz and its Formula-1 partner McLaren. With the exception of two aluminium frames, the body is completely of carbon-fibre materials (CFRP). This makes it highly exceptional among high-performance sports cars. Especially for the roadster, the sophisticated carbon-fibre technology was developed further for the monocoque. The result is low weight, exemplary energy absorption and therefore a high level of occupant safety, plus a torsional rigidity that is unprecedented for an open-top car. It allows outstanding handling characteristics that are otherwise only found in closed super-sports cars. A high level of safety is provided by unique carbon-fibre crash structures, steel-reinforced A-pillars and two fixed rollover bars. Other safety features include adaptive airbags, knee and sidebags, belt tensioners and a tyre pressure monitoring system. A thoroughly sporty appearance The roadster has a crystal antimony grey paint finish, which highlights the sculptured look of this high-performance car particularly effectively. The carbon-fibre technology is visually complemented by the black, grid-like air vents on the bonnet and the front and rear light modules with palladium grey surrounds. In the interior, outstanding lateral support is guaranteed by sports bucket seats upholstered in a combination of semi-aniline leather/Alcantara. Striking visual highlights are provided by the contrasting seams in Mercedes-Benz 300 SL red, the embossed 722 S lettering on the head restraints and the likewise red seat belts. Frequently used controls such as the shift and parking brake levers are lined in particularly high-grip and moisture-absorbing suede leather. In the interior too, the generous use of carbon-fibre underlines the high-performance philosophy and adds a particularly puristic touch. Exclusive appointments The exclusive appointments include two-zone automatic climate control, a high-quality BOSE Premium sound system, a multifunction sports steering wheel with shift paddles and a navigation system with an integrated radio and CD player. This limited edition of 150 examples is predominantly hand-built at the Formula 1 workshops of McLaren in Woking, England, and is available from January 1, 2009.

 

Lamborghini Estoque Concept (2008)

You Can download photo gallery with 13 wallpapers of this beatuiful Estoque right here>>>DOWNLOAD PICTURES Lamborghini like no other before it: a four-door sports car that sticks resolutely to its creed. The Lamborghini Estoque concept has everything that defines a Lamborghini: extreme, uncompromising and unmistakably Italian, it brings a whole new versatility to the brand's DNA - with its four seats and ample luggage space, this "everyday sports car" is a perfect fit for an equally versatile lifestyle. Lamborghini Estoque is a study, a concept created specifically for the 2008 Salon d'Automobiles in Paris. From the very first glance there can be no doubt that this is a Lamborghini - a car with compelling presence, both unique and unmistakable. The long wheelbase, the low profile, the broad track, the mighty, accentuated wheels, the clean surfaces and razor-sharp definition - every single line breathes the spirit of the Lamborghini brand. A new and unique elegance The Lamborghini Estoque is an entirely new interpretation of the Sant' Agata design ethic: it is a concept that provides a clear indication of the future. This applies to the new, elegant self-confidence of the lines themselves, but even more to the concept of the vehicle. The Lamborghini Estoque is the first sedan in the history of Automobili Lamborghini, although "sedan" is more a reference to the number of doors than any other characteristics. Even sports sedan is an inadequate classification: the Lamborghini Estoque establishes a new category of super sports sedans. With a powerful front mid-engine, permanent all-wheel drive and a sophisticated, precision-tuned chassis, the Lamborghini Estoque boasts a unique technology package. A sign of success In Paris, the Lamborghini Estoque demonstrates the innovation, the creativity and the design flair of the Lamborghini brand, currently represented by the enormous success enjoyed by Lamborghini Gallardo and Murciélago super sports cars. As a concept, the Lamborghini Estoque represents one of several possibilities for a third model series within the Lamborghini product line-up. At this point in time, no decisions have been taken in respect of either a third model series of any kind or of the Lamborghini Estoque concept in particular. Of course, as a true Lamborghini, it goes without saying that the Lamborghini Estoque also bears a suitably powerful name with a rich heritage from the Spanish Corrida - bull fighting. The Lamborghini Estoque is a rapier (sword), approximately 90 centimetres (35.43 inches) long, used in a bull fight by the Matador. The Concept Lamborghini Estoque embodies the concept of a Lamborghini that is both a dedicated sports car and a relaxed Gran Turismo. As a sedan with four doors and four individual sports seats, it is a multi-faceted vehicle for multi-faceted lifestyles. Relaxed Gran Turismo The Lamborghini Estoque is the perfect travelling companion, be it en route to business meetings, the theatre, the golf course or even a weekend away with the kids. At the end of the day, it is the only car that allows you to share the singular driving pleasure of a Lamborghini with more than one person - possibly even with the whole family. And there is still enough room left over for weekend luggage or several golf bags. Despite its extremely low profile - at a mere 1.35 meters (4.43 feet) high - the Lamborghini Estoque is surprisingly spacious. The secret lies in its very long wheelbase which, in spite of the rearwards positioning of the front mid-engine, enables a relaxed, sporty seating position. Entering and exiting is also pleasingly straightforward through the large, wide-opening doors. Challenging: a thoroughbred sports car At the same, the Lamborghini Estoque is a thoroughbred sports car with exceptionally refined power delivery, razor-sharp precision handling and a meaty engine tone. Challenging driving pleasure on a winding mountain road, followed by a relaxed, enjoyable journey along miles and miles of motorway- the Lamborghini Estoque is commanding across the entire driving spectrum, at the highest level. The Lamborghini Estoque's versatility makes it the perfect addition to the range of Lamborghini super sports cars. Design Such a Lamborghini must be immediately recognizable in its design as a unique and unmistakable work of art. For the Lamborghini Estoque, this is clearly a case of "mission accomplished." The proportions of the Lamborghini Estoque are simply fascinating: no other automobile combines so convincingly the elegance of length with the sporting attributes of a low profile and impressive breadth. Or to put it into figures - the concept painted in an all-new color, is 5.15 meters (16.89 feet) long and 1.99 meters (6.53 feet) wide, with a height of only 1.35 metres (4.43 feet). The wheelbase is a stately 3.01 meters (9.88 feet) - an equally important element of elegant vehicle architecture. And it is unequivocally Italian - the flat bonnet, the long wheelbase, the narrow window openings, the flat rear that ends decisively with a negative return - it is all pure "Italianità" on wheels; everything bears the design language of the large classic Italian four-door cars, albeit with a unique, modern interpretation. Pure Lamborghini. Clearly a sports car The front end of the Lamborghini Estoque is a clear and unambiguous statement of its sports car credentials. Its place amongst the family of Lamborghini super sports cars is also distinct and unmistakable - with its swooping V-shape, its two large air intakes pulled forward and the small front spoiler in between. This front end design gives the Lamborghini Estoque a firm, low stance, while providing excellent aerodynamic efficiency. The large air intakes facilitate the cooling air that is important for such a high-performance vehicle and the spoiler was specifically designed to improve aerodynamic balance at high speeds. Such distinctive sports car architecture is only possible by positioning the front mid-engine well towards the rear. Despite the very low bonnet, it goes without saying that the Lamborghini Estoque fulfils all safety regulations and pedestrian protection standards. Taut muscles The bonnet of the Lamborghini Estoque makes the origins of the sheer power of this vehicle immediately apparent. The location of the engine is clearly evident through the distinct division created by two large air outlets and the additional emphasis of a central power area. Further air outlets are positioned both left and right in the wings, behind each of the front wheel arches. Together, with the division of the bonnet, these elements add emphasis to the area above the wheels, framing the front end of the Lamborghini Estoque like a taut muscle. The permanent all-wheel drive that is typical for all Lamborghinis means that the 22 inch wheels, with their new five double-spoke design, also do their part in delivering power to the road. Here too, the Centro Stile has stuck firmly to the Lamborghini principle that form always follows function; after all, the ample cooling air flowing into the high-performance driveline also has to move quickly out of the vehicle. Tremendous tension along the flanks Its proportions guarantee the Lamborghini Estoque an impressive appearance. The skilled sectioning along the flanks of the vehicle gives the body shell an incredibly muscular form. Beneath the flat surfaces of the bonnet, the incredibly powerful shoulder line, a further side line rising slightly towards the rear and, finally, the equally distinct sill line all add emphasis to the flow of power from the engine to the magnificent 23 inch rear wheels. The masculine profile is completed by the negative return of the rear end. This adds further tension to the form of the Lamborghini Estoque - the whole car looks coiled and ready to pounce at the drop of a hat. These sharp lines frame a fascinating interplay of surfaces across convex and concave curvatures. The Lamborghini Estoque clearly displays the design language of the Centro Stile Lamborghini with a distinctive elegance. Powerful elegance at the rear The flow of form is brought to its conclusion by the broad, even expanse of the rear end. The horizontal split created by the flat LED light clusters and the large, mesh-covered lower air outlets bring additional emphasis to this breadth. A narrow, slightly slanted "frame" panel surrounds the whole rear aspect and further highlights its powerful elegance. Precise details, such as the hexagonal fuel caps on both sides of the vehicle, characterize the depth of the design language. The front headlamps, featuring bi-Xenon and LED technology, carry forward a theme evident in both the Lamborghini Reventón and the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 - the Y-shape of the daytime running lights. The tiny green/white/red flag adorning the front wings discreetly highlights that an automotive statement as uncompromising as this one can come from only one country on Earth - from Italy. The interior Despite its extremely low profile, the Lamborghini Estoque offers a surprisingly generous feeling of spaciousness. The length of the interior facilitates a relaxed seating position for all four individual seats and plays a significant role in the supreme comfort of this super sports sedan over long distances. The interior reflects elements of the exterior design language, also evident in the cabin of the Lamborghini Estoque - in the distinctive lines of the door panels or in the swooping V-shape applied to the cockpit, reflecting the form used on the front end and on the bonnet. Luxurious interior The dominant material of the interior is highest-quality Nappa leather. The four individual seats boast sporting contours, supreme long-distance comfort and extensive electrical positioning options. Cockpit with large-screen display The cockpit presents the driver with a large-area LCD screen displaying vehicle and route information. A range of presentation formats are available for selection depending on personal preference - a distinctive classical layout with circular instrument dials, or an innovative digital display. A top-class audio installation and a sophisticated rear seat entertainment system round off the equipment. Like the interior, the luggage compartment of the Lamborghini Estoque is also surprisingly spacious. Despite the low-profile rear end, it has plenty room for several golf bags or pieces of luggage. Production feasibility As a pure concept car, the Lamborghini Estoque is a design exercise and a further indication of the innovative power of the Lamborghini brand. Yet, it is based on a feasible technical concept that offers a whole range of fascinating alternatives for the body shell and driveline. Just like the brand's super sports cars, the Lamborghini Estoque uses a mid-engine layout. However, the high-performance driveline used here is not located in front of the rear axle, as in the Gallardo and Murciélago or in the Reventón, but behind the front axle. This front mid-engine concept, with the driveline set way back, facilitates balanced weight distribution and a centre of gravity close to the vehicle's vertical axis. Both ensure the unparalleled agility and handling precision of a mid-engine vehicle. Reserves in every situation Like all contemporary Lamborghini models, the Lamborghini Estoque is also equipped with permanent all-wheel drive. It distributes the engine power to all four wheels, thus making for superior traction in all driving situations, as well as providing extra reserves for extremely sporty driving and for challenging weather conditions. A range of drivelines is conceivable for the Lamborghini Estoque. This is headed up by the highly-acclaimed Lamborghini ten-cylinder from the Gallardo LP 560-4 - with more torque and higher revving than virtually any other engine. A complementary alternative could be a turbocharged eight-cylinder derived from this V10. A particularly economical, but nevertheless dynamic, variation would be a V8 with a hybrid module or an extremely high-performance TDI. The Centro Stile Lamborghini With the Estoque, the Centro Stile Lamborghini has created further proof of its creativity and attention to detail. The design centre that opened in 2004 is a studio of creatives, designers and model makers that combines the culture and the spirit of the brand with the power of innovation and of creating a new aesthetic. The Centro Stile Lamborghini is part of the best tradition of Italian vehicle design, and is leading the way forward with the latest in working techniques. The Centro Stile is located in a 2,900 sq. meter (31,215 sq. feet) facility, where it occupies two interconnected floors. The generously proportioned design studio is equipped with two full-size surface tables and their associated tooling and measuring equipment, while further areas house the latest in computer workstations for the creative experts and a workshop for the model makers. The Centro Stile is also connected directly to the neighbouring Ufficio Tecnico - the direct link to Lamborghini's development department ensures the rapid realization of ideas. Speed is a key aspect for Lamborghini, for both its cars and its working processes; the Reventón was created in the record time of less than one year. In-house creativity and implementation From the first sketches made either on paper or using the three-dimensional computer program, through 1:10 or 1:4 scale models to full-size models, the complete design process is organized within small, fast-moving teams. Since it was founded, the Lamborghini brand has been bringing innovative design trends to the rarefied atmosphere of the world's most desirable automobiles, and producing vehicles with absolutely unmistakable character. Models such as the Miura and the Countach were way ahead of their time, but quickly attained the status of timeless classics. From their first appearance, every new Lamborghini is destined to become a legend and sought-after collectors' item. With the current Murciélago and Gallardo, Lamborghini has once again perfected an innovative design language. The exterior proportions provide an indication of the power and dynamic character of the driveline. Crisply-defined edges, precision lines and clean surfaces result in a design that is reduced to its very essence. Every element is designed precisely in accordance with its function. Examples of this on the Lamborghini Murciélago LP640 include the movable cooling air intakes and the asymmetric sills; on the left side of the vehicle, the air intake is significantly larger to accommodate the flow of fresh air to the oil cooler. Clear lines, perfect details The unmistakable form of a Lamborghini is something that always speaks for itself: ornamentation or decoration of any kind has absolutely no place here. This firmly places the current models that bear the sign of the bull within the best traditions of their brand and of 60s and 70s Italian vehicle design. The sports cars of that time were acclaimed for their perfect proportions and for their objective, functional elegance that required no embellishment of any kind. The purist execution of the lines is complemented perfectly by the passion for detail possessed by the designers in Sant' Agata Bolognese. The rear view of the Murciélago LP 640 is distinctive not only for its impressive power, but also for the fine interplay of the elements in the sophisticated rear light cluster. The sensuality of precision and performance A Lamborghini is a high performance athlete. Its high degree of sensuality is based on precision, performance and spontaneous action. This type of elegance is the elegance of pure, unadulterated power. This Lamborghini DNA is carried forward into future products at the Centro Stile, which is destined to continue to set clear design trends - the Lamborghini Estoque is the perfect example. The design centre on the site of the historical birthplace of all Lamborghinis guarantees the super sports cars with the bull brand will remain exclusive, sensual and challenging - and always unmistakably Italian.