Tesla Roadster Sport starts at $128,500, goes 0 to 60 in 3.7 secs

Tesla announced today that it has started taking orders for the Roadster Sport, a high-performance version of the all-electric Tesla Roadster. What does the 'Sport' badge signify? The Roadster Sport comes with an hand-wound stator and increased winding density for lower resistance and higher peak torque. Performance upgrades include an improved suspension, adjustable dampers, anti-roll bars and Yokohama's Ultra High Performance tires. 0 to 60 comes in just 3.7 seconds compared to the 3.9 seconds for the standard Tesla Roadster. Pricing for the Tesla Roadster Sport starts at $128,500 in the United States and €112,000 in Europe. Deliveries will start later this June. Tesla Roadster Sport:

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Detroit NAIAS 2009: Fisker Karma S Concept Revealed

Besides showing us the 2010 Fisker Karma Hybrid Sedan, Fisker Automotive unveiled the new Fisker Karma S Concept today at the 2009 Detroit Auto Show. Unlike the Fisker Karma, the Fisker Karma S loses two-doors so we're guessing that Fisker may even offer a coupe Karma sometime in the future. The four-seater Fisker S Karma Hybrid hardtop convertible shares its aluminum spaceframe architecture and Q-DRIVE powertrain with the Karma sedan. The concept was designed by Quantum Technologies for Fisker Automotive and provides 50 miles of emissions free driving with up to 403-hp from the two electric motors. "The Karma S is an extension of the Fisker Automotive product range of eco-conscious automobiles and sets the tone for our future," said Fisker Automotive, Inc. CEO Henrik Fisker. We're guessing we'll hear something official at the 2010 Detroit Auto Show. Fisker S Karma Hybrid Concept:

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Detroit NAIAS 2009: 2010 Fisker Karma Hybrid Sedan Revealed

Fisker today unveiled its first production car at the 2009 Detroit Auto Show - the 2010 Fisker Karma Hybrid. Pricing for the Karma starts at $87,900 but is chopped down to $80,400 after tax credits. Fisker says that it has already received 1,000 orders for the world's first 100 mpg luxury plug-in hybrid sedan. Deliveries will begin in the fourth quarter of 2009. The 2010 Fisker Karma is powered by a 201-hp electric motor that is powered by a lithium-ion battery pack provided by Q-DRIVE. That allows the Karma to travel 50 miles without the use of any gasoline. After battery power runs out, the Karma uses a 260-hp turbocharged 2.0L Ecotec direct-injection engine that provides additional mileage. Fisker says that the Karma has a total range of up to 300 miles is estimated in Sport Mode.  The 2010 Karma can sprint from 0 to 60 in 5.8 seconds with a top speed of 125 mph. The Karma will be produced by Valmet Automotive in Finland. The first 99 examples will be built to match the exterior and interior of the Karma prototype seen at the 2008 Detroit Auto Show last January. Each unit will feature a personalized plaque with a serial number and signature from Henrik Fisker. Follow the jump for the high-res image gallery and the press release. 2010 Fisker Karma:     Press Release: LEADING THE FUTURE: FISKER AUTOMOTIVE UNVEILS 2010 FISKER KARMA PREMIUM PLUG-IN HYBRID PRODUCTION CAR 100 mpg Fisker Karma Makes its World Premiere at the 2009 North American International Auto Show DETROIT, MI. Jan. 12, 2009: Fisker Automotive, Inc., the new American manufacturer of premium green automobiles, unveiled its first production car — the 2010 Fisker Karma – at the 2009 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit today. With a starting price of $87,900 ($80,400 after US government tax credits), 1,000 orders for the 100 mile-per-gallon luxury plug-in hybrid have been received since the prototype debuted at the 2008 NAIAS. Karma deliveries are scheduled to begin in the fourth quarter of 2009 through the Fisker Automotive Retail network. More information can be found online at www.fiskerautomotive.com The four-door, four-seat Karma fuses the traditional and timeless styling of veteran auto designer and Fisker Automotive CEO Henrik Fisker, with Quantum Technologies' clean Q-DRIVE® plug-in hybrid powertrain to become the world's first luxury plug-in hybrid car. Q-DRIVE®: POWERFUL TECHNOLOGY Exclusive to Fisker Automotive, Q-DRIVE® provides the best combination of power, efficiency and low emissions. The system is comprised of two 201hp electric motors powered by an advanced lithium-ion technology battery pack. A generator attached to a 260hp turbocharged 2.0-liter Ecotec® direct injection (D1) gasoline engine provides extended range capabilities. "More than 60 percent of America's 200 million drivers travel less than 50 miles per day. With Q-DRIVE®, the Karma can do that without using a drop of gas. This proprietary powertrain will provide a base for all future model derivatives from Fisker Automotive." said Alan Niedzwiecki, CEO Quantum Technologies. Q-DRIVE® features two operating modes: Stealth Mode and Sport Mode. In electric-only Stealth Mode, drivers can travel emission free for up to 50 miles on a full charge from any 110-, 220- or 240-volt electric outlet. A total range of up to 300 miles is estimated in Sport Mode, which utilizes the efficient Ecotec® gasoline engine to turn a generator that powers two electric motors on the rear differential. A fully charged Karma can achieve an annual average of more than 100 miles per gallon. With a top speed of 125 mph and a 0-60 mph time of 5.8 seconds, the Karma is the world's first true premium plug-in hybrid sports sedan. The Karma's low center of gravity and performance oriented, A-arm suspension system offer a world class driving experience. Tall, wide tires deliver immense lateral grip while electrohydaulic disc brakes provide effortless stopping power. LUXURY AND STYLE Karma's exterior design features the continual flow of sculpture and dramatic proportion that is signature Fisker style. A low, wide stance and raised front fenders offer the driver a unique view of the car's design. Modest changes from the original Karma prototype include an enhanced upper grill and an enlarged lower intake for improved airflow. A new aerodynamic diffuser under the rear bumper helps cool the electric drivetrain. Instantly recognizable, the Karma also benefits from having the world's largest continuously formed glass solar panel roof on a car – an industry first and a standard feature on all Karma sedans. "From initial concept to final production, it is important for Fisker to maintain a singular design language and to keep the integrity of the original design, inside and out. Extreme proportions, beautiful sculpture and earth-friendly materials are key elements that set the Karma apart," said Fisker Automotive, Inc. CEO Henrik Fisker. "An inspiring drive is also an important and crucial element. Our hope is that the Fisker Karma will create a new segment of eco-friendly transportation and will become the most desirable plug-in hybrid sports sedan available." A desirable car of any kind requires an inviting cockpit. Fisker's interior design team focused on sustainable design held accountable to the environment. Inspiration from nature's timeless beauty and the quality of classic design composition provided immense inspiration. Karma's Sustainable and Accountable Design is reflected in the use of reusable materials enhanced with modern technology. For example, wood trim is sourced from non-living trees: 'Fallen Trees' that have succumbed to age; 'Rescued Trees' burned in forest fires; and 'Sunken Trees' lying in American lake bottoms. Karma's instrumentation and controls focus on ease of use. Embedded in the layered EcoGlass™ center console is a 10.2-inch touch sensitive screen controlling HVAC, audio and other vehicle systems. LCD gauges behind the steering wheel provide display critical information like battery charge and vehicle speed. "The Karma's material philosophy balances sensuality and accountability," said Fisker. "We have gone to great lengths to use only environmentally conscious, classic automotive materials that support a commitment to our eco initiatives. At Fisker Automotive we are trying to inspire change for the better." Karma buyers will choose from three trim levels: EcoBase™, EcoSport™ and EcoChic™. The most advanced sustainable material series, EcoChic™, is based on an animal-free approach that still offers a luxurious environment. Leather is replaced by 100% Bamboo Viscose, a soft hand textile, while EcoGlass™ trim frames authentic fossilized leaves. Karma's EcoSport™ series incorporates hand-wrapped premium leather using a 100% sustainable manufacturing strategy, which minimizes the number of hides required and highlights natural markings. KARMA PRODUCTION AND DELIVERY To meet production goals, Fisker turned to specialty builder Valmet Automotive in Finland. Delivery of the more than 1,000 pre-ordered Karmas will begin this year. To commemorate initial production, the first 99 examples will be trimmed to match both interior and exterior specifications of the Karma prototype originally showcased at the 2008 NAIAS. Each will feature a personalized plaque with a designated car number and signature from Henrik Fisker Also at the heart of defining the future is Fisker's retail network. A selective process to support initial deliveries is underway and interest from established dealers is high. Customers can expect a high level of service from retail partners that share their environmental and energy values.

 

Detroit 2009: Fisker Karma S Concept

Fisker Karma S Just after showing off the the production intent version of the Karma plug-in hybrid sport sedan, designer Henrik Fisker had his models pull the cover off a new concept: the Karma S. The Karma S takes the drivetrain and platform and loses two doors and the roof. The Sunset has a retractable hardtop over its four seats and, as usual in such configurations, the rear seating area loses out. Thankfully, the top folds into fairly compact pieces, so the Karma S doesn't suffer from long deck syndrome. Under the hood sits a GM 2.0L turbocharged and direct-injected EcoTec four-cylinder with 260 hp driving a generator to keep the car going after its 50-mile battery range has been depleted. Out back a pair of electric motors drive the rear wheels with 400 hp courtesy of the lithium-ion battery. If Fisker lasts long enough, the Karma S should be out in 2011. Video of the live reveal is available after the jump. Gallery: Fisker Karma S Concept   Gallery: Detroit 2009: Fisker Karma S Concept

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Detroit 2009: Maserati Quattroporte Sport GT S is a mouthful

Maserati Quattroporte Sport GT S Maserati says that its new Quattroporte Sport GT S "sets another milestone in terms of sportiness in the high performance luxury sedan segment," and it also appears to be trying to set a record for one car's syllable allotment. Suitable then that it takes more than just a couple of changes to be able to append that "S" to the regular Quattroporte Sport GT. Torque remains the same, but the 4.8-liter V8 is cranks out 433 hp, eight ponies over the regular model. And you get that horsepower a tad later - the engine's rev limit is 7,200 rpm, but you won't get every one of those ponies in action until 7,000 rpm. The transmission software has also been recalibrated for more engaging shifts in three different modes. The suspension has been lowered, stiffened, and imbued with passive damping for higher cornering speeds and improved response. And the sport exhaust has pneumatic valves that render a "deep, throaty, and captivating sound" through large, twin-oval tailpipes. Aesthetically, the Maser's big black snout gets concave vertical fins and a trident with red trim, the headlights are finished in metallic titanium, and the door handles are body-colored. Inside, new M-design seats come in perforated leather paired with Alcantara, and a standard trim called Titantex, which must have come from the marketing department. Slightly cheesy, but definitely beautiful. The entire package sits on 20-inch wheels. You can read all about it in the press release after the jump, and check out the gallery of high-res photos below. Gallery: Detroit 2009: Maserati Quattroporte Sport GT S

 

Matte White Wiesman GT MF5 Pictures

Yesterday we saw a Matte White Ferrari 599 GTB which followed the Matte White Brabus Tesla Roadster which debut at the 2008 Essen Motor Show. These 3 cars are definitely setting the stage for the wrath of Matte White cars we will soon be seeing in 2009.      [Source: martinimaster @ Autogespot.com]

 

Special Edition Blue Bugatti Veyron in Dubai

If the beautiful and recent Mansory Bugatti Veyron Vincero wasn't enough to make you drool, then checkout this Blue Special Edition Bugatti Veyron spotted at the Mall of Emirates in Dubai.     This beautiful blue variant is modified by Bugatti and includes new chrome mirrors, Bugatti Veyron Hermes Edition wheels, some new grill work, carbon fiber side skirt and some other slight chrome piping accents and Ettore Bugatti printed on the lower right hand corner of each door. [Source: Luxury4Play.com]

 

Branew Nissan GT-R Front Clip

Having seen the original Branew Nissan GT-R at the 2008 Sema Show in Las Vegas this past November, it surely didn't take Branew long to whip up another sexy front clip available in FRP or Carbon Fiber called The Front Bumper Dynamic Version. I will make sure I take a tonne of photos of this new clip at the Tokyo Auto Salon 2009 because I think it makes a very nice modification to the already sexy Nissan GT-R front end!   Branew Nissan GTR at 2008 SEMA SHOW  [Source: GTRBlog.com]