2012 Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid

Toyota to Debut 2012 Prius Plug-in Hybrid with up to 107MPG at the Frankfurt Motor Show



The car differs from the standard Prius because it uses lithium-ion batteries to power the electric motor, instead of the nickel metal hydride battery pack in the current version. These batteries can be recharged by plugging into mains electricity.



The addition of a compact lithium-ion battery with plug-in capability increases both the efficiency as well as the car's all-electric driving range to around 13 miles or 21 km at speeds of up to 62mph (100km/h). Once the battery is depleted the PHEV reverts to its hybrid mode and operates as a regular Prius.



Other than its lithium-ion drive battery — a standard Prius uses nickel metal hydride — Prius plug-in's running gear is virtually identical to a standard Prius. The cost to charge its 1 kW-hour drive battery, which charges in less than three hours at a 110-volt outlet, is negligible — less than 10 cents per charge at Ameren's current residential rates.













Press Release



The new Prius Plug-in Hybrid - the greenest, most technically advanced Prius yet



The Prius Plug-in Hybrid, Toyota's first plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) to go on sale to the mass market, makes its production vehicle world debut at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show.



The next major milestone in Toyota's ongoing, 40 year quest for sustainable mobility and the ultimate eco car, the Prius Plug-in Hybrid represents the latest development of the company's modular Hybrid Synergy Drive® (HSD) platform -credible, trusted and reliable full hybrid technology with a proven track record garnered over some 200 billion kilometres of driving worldwide.



The new Prius Plug-in Hybrid features a newly designed and more compact lithium-ion battery, developed to meet Toyota's rigorous standards for reliability. Its extended EV cruising range enables it to achieve remarkable fuel efficiency of just 2.2 l/100 km, and to lower CO2 emissions to an unprecedented 49 g/km.*



The Prius Plug-in Hybrid sets a new benchmark in environmentally-friendly mobility by offering customers commuting to urban areas the best of both worlds. It addresses the specific needs of urban-based customers with a significantly extended EV driving range for shorter journeys. The efficient hybrid powertrain's petrol engine awards the vehicle true long range capability whilst still returning the very low fuel consumption of the standard Prius. Moreover, the affordability of its proven HSD technology will make it widely accessible.



While Toyota continues to roll out Full Hybrid technology to new market segments through models such as the Auris and Yaris, the Prius itself remains a showcase for new technologies and further advances in HSD powertrain design, with Prius Plug-in Hybrid as its flagship.

Preview: 2012 Infiniti FX

Infiniti has released pictures and details for the 2012 FX facelift, which will debut at the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance on August 18th.

The 2012 FX will be available in several models: FX35 RWD, FX35 AWD, FX50 AWD and the previously mentioned FX Limited Edition. The FX35 models will feature the popular VQ35HR powerplant with 303-hp and 262 lb-ft of torque. The FX50 models will feature the same 5.0L V8 VK50VE engine with 390-hp and 369 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are mated to a revised seven-speed transmission.

Enhancements to the rest of the 2012 Infiniti FX line include a new exterior color, Graphite Shadow, which replaces Platinum Graphite, a new 20-inch wheel design and quilted leather climate-controlled front seats for the FX35 Deluxe Touring Package. The FX50 Sport Package now adds adaptive headlights.

This limited edition model gets a number of special features including an Iridium Blue exterior color, 21-inch alloys with a dark satin finish, tinted headlights and roof rail crossbars, aluminum pedal accents, a hard-drive based navigation system, blue piping on the floor mats, and Nissan’s Around View camera monitoring system.

Power for the 2012 Infiniti FX35 still comes from the 3.5 liter V6 making 303-hp and 262 lb-ft of torque. The 2012 Infiniti FX50 goes on with its wonderful 5.0 liter V8 making 390-hp and 369 lb-ft of torque.

Inside, all 2012 Infiniti FX models get revised instrument lighting and standard heated front seats. The quilted leather, climate-controlled seats from the FX35 Premium Package are now included as part of the FX35 Deluxe Touring Package, which means that buyers get more content for the same money.

Pricing doesn't change much for 2012, with the base FX35 starting at $43,450 and the FX50 at $59,350. The new Limited Edition FX35, which comes only with all-wheel drive, will go for $51,550. According to the automaker, "popularly equipped" models wear the same price tags in 2012 as they did in 2011.




Press Release

2012 INFINITI FX PRESS KIT: AT A GLANCE

How do you make a standout in class stand out even more? In the case of the iconic, class-defining Infiniti FX luxury performance crossover, add a fresh new front grille and fascia design for 2012 - featuring a heavy influence from the stunning Infiniti Essence Concept. The redesign comes in just the fourth year of the second-generation FX design and is accompanied by a number of other refinements - plus the addition of an all-new FX35 Limited Edition.

Based upon the FX35 All-Wheel Drive model, the Limited Edition features an available exclusive Iridium Blue exterior color, 21-inch 10-spoke aluminum-alloy graphite finish wheels with P265/45R21 V-rated all-season tires, dark tinted headlights with Adaptive Front lighting System (AFS) and auto-leveling, and dark tinted side air vents and lower door trim. Other Limited Edition features include aluminum roof rails and roof rail crossbars with graphite finish, aluminum pedals, graphite floor mats with unique blue piping, Infiniti Hard Drive Navigation System, Around View® Monitor (AVM) and much more.

Other 2012 Infiniti FX enhancements include a new exterior color, Graphite Shadow (replaces Platinum Graphite), a new 20-inch wheel design for the FX35 Deluxe Touring Package, and a shift of the quilted leather climate-controlled front seats to the FX35 Deluxe Touring Package from the Premium Package.

Continuing as one of the most aggressive expressions of sport and utility prowling the streets today, FX is again available with a choice of a 390-horsepower 5.0-liter 32-valve DOHC V8 engine with VVEL (Variable Valve Event & Lift) or with a 303-horsepower 3.5-liter 24-valve DOHC V6 engine. Both engines are paired with a standard 7-speed automatic transmission featuring Adaptive Shift Control (ASC). Solid magnesium paddle shifters are available on the FX50.

The FX is also offered with Intelligent All-Wheel Drive (standard on FX50), double-wishbone front/multi-link rear suspension and large 4-wheel disc brakes, along with available Continuous Damping Control (CDC®), Rear Active Steer, and Intelligent Brake Assist.

Inside, the FX interior provides a warm, inviting environment, highlighted by a driver-oriented cockpit with intuitive controls, available sport seating and advanced audio, navigation and technology - ranging from a Bose? 11-speaker Premium Audio system to the Infiniti Intelligent Key, Intelligent Cruise Control (Full-Speed Range) and Around View® Monitor system. For 2012, the meter illumination has been changed to white, rather than the previous orange accents.

The FX again offers an array of available advanced technology systems, including Distance Control Assist (DCA), Lane Departure Warning LDW) and Lane Departure Prevention (LDP), and Intelligent Brake Assist (IBA) with Forward Collision Warning (FCW).

The 2012 FX is offered in four models: FX50 AWD with 5.0-liter V8, FX35 AWD with 3.5-liter V6, FX35 RWD with 3.5-liter V6, and FX Limited Edition with 3.5-liter V6. Also offered is a range of special equipment packages, Premium Package, Deluxe Touring Package, Technology Package and Sport Package.

Highlights of the 2012 Infiniti FX include:

Body

• Revised front grille and fascia design for 2012
• A fusion of luxury, performance and SUV utility, with short front and rear overhangs, aggressive stance and available 21-inch wheels and tires
• Revised 20-inch wheel design (FX35 Deluxe Touring Package)
• Polished, assertive styling, featuring a new grille design, double wave hood, strong front-to-rear shoulder line, integrated rear spoiler, power sliding moonroof
• Standard automatic on/off High Intensity Discharge (HID) bi-functional xenon headlights and integrated front fog lights; aerodynamically designed rear LED taillights
• Available Adaptive Front lighting System (AFS) with auto-leveling headlights
• Distinctive functional side air vents, which reduce front end lift by five percent
• Lightweight aluminum-alloy hood and doors
• Standard power rear liftgate
• Chrome window moldings and door handles; available aluminum roof rails
• Power folding, heated outside mirrors with courtesy lights and available reverse tilt-down feature
• Speed-sensitive windshield wipers with aerodynamic flat blade wiper design, low-profile wiper arms; available rain-sensing function
• Dual outlet exhaust with chrome tailpipe finishers
• Offered in eight exterior colors: Graphite Shadow (new for 2012), Malbec Black, Umbria Twilight, Liquid Platinum, Black Obsidian, Midnight Mocha, Moonlight White and exclusive Iridium Blue (FX35 Limited Edition only)
• 0.35 coefficient of drag on FX35, 0.36 on FX50

Engine, Driveline and Platform

• Front engine/rear-wheel drive (FX35 RWD) or all-wheel drive (FX50 AWD, FX35 AWD, FX Limited Edition)
• VK50VE 32-valve 5.0-liter DOHC V8 with advanced Variable Valve Event & Lift (VVEL) valve control technology, producing 390 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque (FX50)
• VQ35HR 24-valve 3.5-liter DOHC V6, producing 303-horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque (FX35)
• Refined 7-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission with manual shift mode, Adaptive Shift Control (ASC) and Downshift Rev Matching
• Available solid magnesium paddle shifters (FX50)
• Infiniti Intelligent All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system (FX50 AWD, FX35 AWD)
• Snow-Mode function (shifts throttle input algorithm once activated by driver for enhanced traction in low-speed slippery road conditions)
• Built on Infiniti's FM (Front Mid-ship) platform, specially designed and configured for use on FX

Suspension, Steering and Braking

• 4-wheel independent suspension with front double-wishbone and rear multi-link designs, extensive use of lightweight aluminum components, lightweight compact steel rear subframe
• Dual Flow Path^TM shock absorbers with rebound springs
• Available Continuous Damping Control (CDC®) with driver-selectable "Auto" and "Sport" settings (FX50 Sport Package)
• Large diameter front and rear stabilizer bars
• Power-assisted twin-orifice vehicle-speed-sensitive rack-and-pinion steering
• Available Rear Active Steer for increased responsiveness and handling (FX50 Sport Package)
• 4-wheel power-assisted vented brakes; 4-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS); Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD); Brake Assist (BA), available Preview Braking
• Aluminum-alloy 4-piston front/2-piston rear (opposed piston) calipers (FX50)
• Standard 18-inch split-5-spoke aluminum-alloy wheels with 265/60R18 all-season tires (FX35)
• Standard 21-inch 6-spoke aluminum-alloy wheels with 265/45R21 all-season tires (FX50)
• Available 20-inch 5-spoke aluminum-alloy wheels with 265/50R20 all-season tires (FX35 Deluxe Touring Package)
• Available 21-inch 10-spoke aluminum-alloy wheels with 265/45R21 all-season tires (FX35 AWD Limited Edition)

Interior Features

• Cockpit-like styling with standard leather-appointed seating
• Available quilted leather-appointed seating (standard FX50, available FX35 Deluxe Touring Package)
• Personalized driver and passenger comfort zones with dual-zone front climate control HVAC system
• 10-way power-adjustable driver's seat including 2-way power lumbar support; available manual thigh support with power bolster adjustment (FX50 Sport Package)
• 8-way power-adjustable front passenger seat, available manual thigh support (FX50 Sport Package)
• Available dual-occupant memory system (standard FX50, available FX35 Premium Package)
• Standard heated front seats
• Available climate-controlled front seats (standard FX50, available FX35 Deluxe Touring Package)
• Three-spoke, perforated leather-wrapped, sport-style steering wheel with integrated cruise control and audio controls, available power tilt/telescopic feature (standard FX50, available FX35 Deluxe Touring Package)
• 60/40 split-folding and reclining rear seat
• Sequential Welcome Lighting illuminated entry system
• Fine Vision electroluminescent gauges with revised meter illumination
• 7.0-inch (FX35) or 8.0-inch WVGA (FX50) color information display
• Infiniti signature analog clock
• Standard black lacquer trim
• Available Maple interior accents
• Available aluminum pedal accents
• Advanced Climate Control System (ACCS) with auto-recirculation, Grape Polyphenol Filter and Plasmacluster^TM air purifier (FX50)
• Power windows with front one-touch auto-up/down with auto-reverse feature
• Infiniti Intelligent Key with Push Button Ignition
• Available Intelligent Cruise Control (Full-Speed Range)
• Available Distance Control Assist (DCA)
• Bose 11-speaker Premium Audio system with single CD, mp3-CD playback, auxiliary input jacks, steering wheel audio controls and USB connection port for iPod® interface and other compatible devices
• XM Satellite Radio (XM® subscription required, sold separately)
• Available Infiniti Hard Drive Navigation System with XM NavTraffic® with Real-Time Traffic Information and XM NavWeather^TM with Real-Time Weather Information (requires active XM® subscription, sold separately), Zagat Survey® restaurant guide, Streaming Audio via Bluetooth®, and Voice Recognition system (standard FX50, available FX35 Premium Package)
• RearView Monitor
• Available innovative Around View® Monitor system with front, side and rear-mounted cameras, which provide a virtual 360-degree view of the vehicle to help when parking
• Bluetooth Hands-free Phone System
• Available tonneau cover (standard on FX50)
• Four 12-volt power points, dual front and rear cupholders, locking glove compartment
• Three available interior colors: Wheat, Graphite, Java

Safety and Security

• Available Intelligent Brake Assist (IBA) with Forward Collision Warning
• Available Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Lane Departure Prevention (LDP) systems
• Available Adaptive Front lighting System (AFS) with auto-leveling headlights
• Infiniti Advanced Air Bag System (AABS)
• Dual-stage supplemental front air bags with seat belt and occupant classification sensors
• Front seat-mounted side-impact supplemental air bags and roof-mounted curtain side-impact supplemental air bags for front and rear-seat outboard occupant head protection
• 3-point front seat belts with pre-tensioners and load limiters; ALR/ELR in all passenger seating positions (driver ELR only)
• Available Front Pre-Crash Seat Belts
• Seat belt reminder system (front)
• Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren (LATCH) system
• Front-seat Active Head Restraints
• Child safety rear door locks and power window lock-out button
• Zone Body Construction with front and rear crumple zones
• Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) with individual tire pressure display
• Infiniti Vehicle Immobilizer System and Vehicle Security System
• Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) with Traction Control System (TCS)

Models and Manufacturing

• Available in four well-equipped models: FX50 AWD, FX Limited Edition, FX35 AWD and FX35 RWD
• Assembled by Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. in Tochigi, Japan

2012 Lexus GS【Video】

Lexus will unveil the all-new 2012 Lexus GS at the upcoming Concours d’Elegance event at Pebble Beach on August 18. The new Lexus GS will be the production version of the recently unveiled Lexus LF Gh Concept that was shown at the 2011 Australian International Motor Show in Melbourne earlier this month.







Press Release

Automotive journalists test the all-new GS ahead of its official launch.

Swathed in detail-obscuring covers to protect its identity, pre-production versions of the next generation GS were test-driven by a select group of top European journalists - no fanfare, no publicity, just the drive and the experience. Inspired by the dynamic LF-Gh concept, this car is poised to be the new face of Lexus.

Participants drove the new GS in testing conditions at an exclusive proving-ground. Chief Engineer, Yoshihiko Kanamori was in attendance from Japan to gather valuable feedback. The journalists enjoyed the luxurious and spacious interior and were able to test the dynamic and engaging handling characteristics to the full. Although disguised, these trusted correspondents were able to get a taste for the soon-to-be-unveiled styling. This new chapter in the history of Lexus will be revealed at Pebble Beach, California on 18th August 2011.

Mazda 2 and MX-5 Black Edition

Japanese car manufacturer Mazda has released Black Editions of the MX-5 and 2 models, inspired by the success of the MX-5 GT race car.

The MX-5 Sport Black features a black folding metal roof and is available in green, pearl white or red mica. It comes with 17-inch gunmetal alloy wheels, black leather, piano black trim details and ‘Black Limited Edition’ badging, as well as a numbered interior plaque.

Power comes from a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 160 PS (118 kW / 158 hp). It enables the car to accelerate from 0-62 mph in 7.9 seconds and hit a top speed of 136 mph (219 km/h).

The model also comes with black leather interior with contrasting ‘sand’ color stitching, Piano Black steering wheel and deco panel, and unique ‘Black Limited Edition’ exterior badging, uniquely numbered interior plaque and Limited
Click to enlarge [Mazda MX-5 Sport Black]
Mazda MX-5 Sport Black
Edition floor mats.

Only 500 units of the MX-5 Black Limited Edition will be manufactured and customers will have to spend 22.995 pounds before they can get their hands on one. On the other hand, 618 units of the Mazda 2 Black Edition will be available, with a 12.815 pounds price.




Press Release

Mazda Press Release: Mazda unleashes track-inspired 'Black Limited Edition' MX-5 and Mazda2

• Mazda MX-5 Sport Black inspired by this year's highly successful MX-5 GT race car
• Mazda2 Black introduces a black vinyl roof, privacy glass and matt black alloy wheels
• Only 500 and 618, respectively of these Limited Edition Mazdas available for the UK market

Inspired by the highly successful 275bhp Mazda MX-5 GT race car competing in the 2011 Britcar Production GTN Championship, Mazda has introduced two new 'Black Limited Edition' models - a Mazda MX-5 Sport Black and a Mazda2 Black - bringing a darker edge to Mazda's model range.

The success of the 850kg MX-5 GT race car is that is retains the same characteristics that make the road-going Mazda MX-5 a great handling, nimble and fun-to-drive roadster. In its first year of racing the MX-5 GT has achieved two podiums and is currently third in class. The MX-5 GT race car continues to challenge convention, taking on the more powerful established race cars from Lotus, BMW and Ferrari.

The success of this year's MX-5 race programme and the popularity of MX-5 GT has lead to the track-inspired 'Black Limited Edition' Mazda MX-5 and Mazda2. Available from mid-July, the Mazda MX-5 Sport Black is distinguished by unique paint finishes and an enhanced specification, offering more for a lower price than the car it's based on. Externally the car is highlighted by a Brilliant Black powered retractable hard-top, this is in contrast with the choice of bodywork colours - Spirited Green metallic, Crystal White Pearlescent and Velocity Red mica - but compliments the dark 'gun metal' 17-inch alloy wheels.

The model also comes with black leather interior with contrasting 'sand' colour stitching, Piano Black steering wheel and deco panel, and unique 'Black Limited Edition' exterior badging, uniquely numbered interior plaque and Limited Edition floor mats.

The MX-5 Sport Black incorporates the generous equipment specification of the Sport Tech model, including climate control air-conditioning, a premium Bose® audio system, an integrated hands-free Bluetooth® system, cruise control and front fog lights. Owners will also benefit from the world's fastest folding powered retractable roof, which goes up or down in 12 seconds.

Only 500 examples of the Mazda MX-5 Sport Black will be produced, each costing £22,995 (OTR), just £360 more than the 160ps, 2.0-litre, six-speed transmission Sport Tech model on which it is based.

"Special Edition models of the Mazda MX-5 have always been eagerly received by UK consumers, and the new Sport Black model takes inspiration from the MX-5 GT race car that embodies Mazda's Defy Convention brand strategy," comments Peter Allibon, Sales Director, Mazda Motors UK. "Both the race car and road-going sportscar remain true to their roots, those of driving entertainment, great handling and fun to drive. The Sport Black model delivers a distinctive and sharper edge to our long-running star performer and as in the Britcar Production GTN Championship, it remains unrivalled as a rewarding sportscar."

Five-door Mazda2 with attitude

Following the MX-5 Sport Black theme, the new Limited Edition Mazda2 Black five-door is also available in Spirited Green metallic, Crystal White Pearlescent and True Red. Based on the 84ps, 1.3-litre Tamura model, the Mazda2 Black adds a black vinyl roof, matt black 16-inch alloy wheels, front fog lights, privacy glass and a rear bumper sports trim.

Inside, there is the Sports interior with climate control air-conditioning, a Parrot Bluetooth® hands-free system, electric rear windows, plus unique 'Black Edition' exterior badging, uniquely numbered interior plaque and Limited Edition floor mats.

Inspired again by Mazda's convention-defying race car, just 618 examples of the Mazda2 Black will be produced, with prices starting at £12,395 (OTR) for the True Red version and £12,815 for the other metallic and pearlescent colours.

The next Britcar race takes place at the Snetterton race circuit from 13-14 August 2011.

STANDARD EQUIPMENT

Mazda MX-5 Sport Black
Additional equipment above MX-5 Sport Tech Roadster Coupe

Unique dark Gun Metal 17-inch alloy wheels
Three unique exterior colours
Brilliant Black painted powered retractable hardtop
Black door mirrors
Black fashion bars
Alloy pedal set
Unique 'sand' colour stitching on Black leather seats, steering wheel and handbrake
Piano Black finish to steering wheel and deco panel
Unique, numbered plaque and 'Black Edition' branded floor mats

Mazda2 Black
Additional equipment above Mazda2 Tamura

Unique matt Black 16-inch alloy wheels
Black vinyl roof
Dark rear privacy glass
Rear sports bumper
Front fog lights
Climate-control air-conditioning
Parrot Bluetooth® system
Electric rear windows
Black sports interior trim with red piping
Unique, numbered dashboard plaque and 'Black Edition' branded floor mats

2012 Nissan Leaf Prices

The 2012 Nissan Leaf will now pack more standard features — and a noticeably higher price. Starting July 25 the second model year Leaf will be available for order in the Southeastern United States and Illinois.

The uplevel 2012 Nissan Leaf SL starts at $38,100, reflecting a $3,530 price increase over the 2011 model, said Nissan in Tuesday's pricing announcement. Nissan has deleted the Leaf SL-e model for 2012. That version was priced at $34,570 for the 2011 model year and was part of a federal electric-vehicle project through a special U.S. Department of Energy grant. The 2012 Leaf goes on sale this fall.





Press Release

NISSAN TO LAUNCH ALL-ELECTRIC LEAF AS UPGRADED 2012 MODEL IN NEW U.S. MARKETS


Nissan North America Inc. is expanding availability of the all-electric Nissan LEAF to U.S. consumers for the 2012 model year, with upgrades based on feedback from the thousands of owners who already have driven several millions of miles in the first 100-percent electric car for the mass market.

The Nissan LEAF, enriched with additional standard equipment including quick charging and cold-weather features for the 2012 model year, now will be available for order in the Southeastern United States and Illinois.

"Many enthusiastic consumers have eagerly anticipated ordering a Nissan LEAF of their own, and now we can make zero-emissions mobility a reality in more markets," said Brian Carolin, senior vice president, Sales and Marketing, Nissan North America. "In response to direct feedback from Nissan LEAF owners, the features that customers want most will come standard on the 2012 Nissan LEAF - including quick charging and cold-weather features."

Nissan on July 25 will open up the ordering process to consumers with existing reservations in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Maryland, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia and Washington, D.C.

After the prioritized ordering phase for existing reservations in those markets, Nissan on Aug. 4 will open new reservations and orders to the general public, both in these new markets, as well as places where the Nissan LEAF already has been on sale (Arizona, California, Hawaii, Oregon, Tennessee, Texas, and Washington). Expected delivery of the first 2012 Nissan LEAFs will begin in the fall.

The MY12 vehicle features product enhancements that incorporate feedback from early LEAF drivers, including standardizing the most popular options. These features include:

• DC Fast Charge capability standard on Nissan LEAF SL: The vast majority of MY11 consumers have opted for the DC fast charge port, which allows the vehicle to be charged at 480V - reducing charging time to under 30 minutes for charging the vehicle to 80 percent from a fully depleted state. As DC fast charge stations proliferate across the country, Nissan expects this feature to become even more popular. For 2012, fast-charging capability will be standard on the SL trim level.

• Cold weather features standard on Nissan LEAF: As the Nissan LEAF rolls out to U.S. markets with colder climates, cold weather features become standard equipment on all trim levels of the Nissan LEAF. These include a battery warmer, heated steering wheel, and heated seats in both the front and rear.

The manufacturer's suggested retail price of the 2012 Nissan LEAF is $35,200 for the SV trim level, and $37,250 for the SL trim level. The monthly lease price will begin at a highly competitive $369.

Nissan will expand into additional new markets as the year continues. In the fall, orders from existing reservations and new reservations will begin in Connecticut, Colorado, Massachusetts, New Jersey and New York. By the end of the year, Delaware, Indiana, Louisiana, Nevada, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Rhode Island will be added as markets where the Nissan LEAF will be available for order.

More than 4,000 Nissan LEAFs have been delivered to U.S. customers, and Nissan, as it begins the next phase of the launch, continues to learn from them. While 82 percent have never previously owned a Nissan, a full 75 percent considered no other vehicle than the Nissan LEAF in their purchase decision. On a whole, these early adopters report that they are using the Nissan LEAF as their primary car, and driving it far more than was originally anticipated. These consumers, most of whom are highly educated and have high income levels, are technologically savvy, environmentally conscious, and consider themselves advocates for electric-car technology.

800 HP Toyota Celica fastest car at Goodwood

The 800HP Toyota Celica is based on the sixth generation Celica, tipping the scales at just 1,050 kg (2,315 lbs).

For better weight distribution, the driver’s position has moved back 12 inches, and the car’s centre of gravity has been lowered by raising the wheel arches and upper suspension mounts. A flat floor and rear diffuser add a degree of ground effect. Super soft rallycross specification Michelin slick tyres also played an important role in getting all that horsepower to the ground.

Power comes from an engine taken from a World Rally Championship winning Corolla, newly fitted with a Rotrex supercharger. A nitrous oxide injection system helped reduce turbo-lag for quicker acceleration off the line, while super soft rallycross specification Michelin slick tires also brought their contribution to the feat.






Press Release

TOYOTA CELICA FASTEST CAR AT GOODWOOD 2011

Taking just 48.07 seconds to blast up the 1.6 mile driveway of Goodwood House, a 800bhp Toyota Celica was the fastest car overall at Goodwood Festival of Speed, 2011.

To win the Celica had to beat many famous racing cars, including recent Formula 1 cars.

The car was driven and built by former British Rally Champion, Jonny Milner. Milner had narrowly missed out in previous years and returned in 2011 with an extra 100bhp to clinch the FTD (fastest time of the day) in front of a massive crowd swelled by the presence of stars such as F1 champion Lewis Hamilton.

Rising over 300ft from the start line to the finish, the course is very technical and challenging, putting the skills of the world's very best drivers and riders to the ultimate test of concentration and speed.

A small mistake by former British Rally Champion Milner meant he narrowly missed winning the televised "shootout" on Sunday afternoon, but his time set earlier in the day was the fastest of all 200 cars over the prestigious three day event.

Based on the sixth generation Celica, Milner's car is super-lightweight, tipping the scales at just 1,050kg. For better weight distribution, the driver's position has moved back 12 inches, and the car's centre of gravity has been lowered by raising the wheel arches and upper suspension mounts. A flat floor and rear diffuser add a degree of ground effect.

The engine is from a World Rally Championship winning Corolla, newly fitted with a Rotrex supercharger that will help raise maximum output to more than 800bhp. A nitrous oxide injection system helped reduce turbo-lag for quicker acceleration off the line. Super soft rallycross specification Michelin slick tyres also played an important role in getting all that horsepower to the ground.

Engine type Corolla WRC four-cylinder, 16-valve
Displacement (cc) 1,998
Turbocharger Garrett GT35/42
Supercharger Rotrex, belt-driven
Engine management Motec
Compression ratio 9.7:1
Max. power (DIN hp @ rpm) 700 @ 5,700 at 2bar boost
>800 with nitrous oxide boost
Fuel tank capacity (l) 15
Weight (kg) 1,050
Transmission Mactrack 5-speed manual with Fensport triple-plate clutch
Suspension (front & rear) Reiger Corolla WRC 3-way adjustable dampers,
Brakes Front 343mm and rear 295mm Corolla WRC ventilated discs with Alcon callipers
Wheels 18in