Technology archives

The Next-Generation CVT by Nissan and JATCO

Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., a long-time leader in the development and application of CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) technology, and its affiliate transmission supplier JATCO Ltd. today announced the joint development of a new generation of compact and lightweight CVTs. The next-generation CVT design features an innovative structure combining conventional CVT belt operation with an auxiliary gearbox and a significantly increased gear ratio range. The new CVT is scheduled to appear in compact Nissan vehicles

Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG with electric drive - the exciting future of the super sports car

Mercedes-AMG is paving the way ahead: with the new SLS AMG with electric drive, the performance brand within Mercedes-Benz Cars is developing an exciting super sports car with zero-emission high-tech drive. This model sees Mercedes-Benz and AMG displaying their expertise in the development of alternative drive solutions for high-performance super sports cars, delivering further proof of their pioneering status in this market segment. The Merce

Fiat Qubo to get eco:Drive fuel saving technology

The versatile Qubo mini-MPV is the latest in Fiat’s range to benefit from eco:Drive, the in-car system that can save fuel and reduce emissions. eco:Drive, which allows drivers to download a record of their driving style from car to computer with a USB memory stick, and learn how to reduce their impact on the environment, is already available on other Fiat cars, including 500, 500C, Grande Punto and Bravo. Launched by Fiat in 2008, the free-of-charge, award-winning system helps motorists understand the impact of

New Dual Injector System from Nissan

Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. today announced the development of a Dual Injector system designed to improve fuel efficiency in small-displacement gasoline engines. The new fuel delivery system, the first of its kind in the world*1, uses an injector for each port rather than one per cylinder - speeding up fuel vaporization, reducing the amount of unburned fuel and reducing hydrocarbon emissions. Nissan will introduce the new system in production vehicles starting early in fiscal 2010. While most curr

Mercedes-Benz Concept BlueZERO - a near-series concept car

Adistinctive radiator grille with a large star in the middle. Dynamic lateral lines on the flanks. A metallic-painted body that exudes power and excitement. There is no debating that with this car, the Concept BlueZERO, Mercedes-Benz is redefining its familiar design idiom. What’s more, the dynamic exterior design symb

Audi navigation system plus - Updated

The new Audi navigation system plus with MMI (Multi Media Interface) operating logic in the A3, TT and R8 offers improved screen resolution and unmatched route calculation speed.The radio-navigation system, version E (RNS-E), can be combined with the Audi music interface and reads up to 32 GB SD memory cards. The new system is available immediately and costs between 2,270 and 2,565 euros, depending on the model. The most obvious improvement are the 800 x 480 pixel, high-resolution graphics di

Skoda starts producing a modernised three-cylinder 1.2l engine

Škoda Auto has started producing a modernised 1.2 HTP engine in its engine manufacturing plant in Mladá Boleslav, the place of the car manufacturer's head office. Extensive adaptations made to this economical three-cylinder petrol unit have been devised by the Department of Technological Development. The engine modernisation includes a number of measures – perhaps the most important one is in that the old link chain driving the valve timing me

Electric Smart to go live

Following successful trials in the UK, the iconic, zero-emission, smart fortwo electric drive is ready for small series production. Reaction from customers taking part in the UK trial, including the Metropolitan Police, universities, local councils, architects and energy companies, has proved so encouraging that smart’s parent company, Daimler AG, can confirm that the smart electric drive will go into small series production, with cars coming to the UK in early 2010. The second generation

New Evolved V6 Diesel Engine for the Citroen C5 and C6

With the arrival of the new V6 DPFS 240 engine, the Citroen C5 & C6 offer a « win-win » situation. C5 & C6 DPFS 240 herald a new dawn in terms of customer satisfaction, with the promise of pleasure, quiet operation and good performance. The improvements offer a significant reduction in fuel consumption and redu

Porsche wins "Best New Engine 2009 Award"

Once again Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG, Stuttgart, has been successful in the International Engine of the Year Awards. With its 3.8-litre power unit from the 911 Carrera S models, the sports car manufacturer has underpinned its position in a field of high performance competitors, receiving the coveted “Best New Engine 2009 Award”. For eleven years now, this prize has been awarded by the British specialist journal “Engine Technology International” for outstanding engine characteristics. With the new flat-six engi

Ford Mondeo ECOnetic

Ford is boosting its Mondeo ECOnetic range. With the introduction of a new, 2.0-litre, 115PS model - the lowest CO2 Mondeo yet - and broadens the choice of Ford models available with less than 140g/km CO2. The new Ford Mondeo ECOnetic is offered in five-door or estate form, each with the same, 139g/km CO2 rating, furthering Ford’s commitment to creating fuel efficient models, without sacrificing practicality or driving characteristics. Each uses Ford’s proven 2.0-litre, 115PS TDCi engine,

Insignia Park Assistant - The latest technology feature from Opel

Opel announces a new park assistance feature on the Insignia that puts an end to second-guessing on those coveted parking spaces. It is a perfect tool for car drivers who don’t have the courage to fill in a narrow spot. Or when it isn’t clear at first glance whether a car will fit or how to attempt a tough parallel park in the midst of hectic traffic. The Park Assistant makes parking a breeze: It finds spots into which the Insignia can nudge a