2011 Aston Martin Vantage GT4 Elegant and Sport Car

The chassis has been fitted with a high-strength steel rollcage and Recaro competition seats. A suede-trimmed steering wheel with a quick release mechanism is also fitted as standard. The Vantage GT4′s safety features are completed with a Sabelt sixpoint safety harness with a push-button release and Lifeline Zero 360 gas extinguisher system.

The V8 Vantage road car’s suspension has required only minor adjustments for optimal track performance. These include larger diameter front and rear anti-roll bars and adjustable ride height aluminium dampers, as well as single rate, flat ground springs with separate helper springs. The front subframe is modified for extra camber and castor. Cast magnesium front and rear wheels are standard fit with high performance Yokohama A048-R tyres. The brakes are uprated with Pagid RS 29 race pads.

As further endorsement of the standard V8 Vantage underframe, the active safety systems are directly carried over to the Vantage GT4, including: dynamic stability control, traction control, ABS and electronic brakeforce distribution, providing reassurance and enhanced control in slippery conditions.

What better approach to highway exam a vehicle than to drive it over 3,000 km in a single week. Not most drive which most kilometres in a month (some don’t even do it in the year. In fact many supercars tend to get driven about 5,000 km a year at best. So, afterwards, how does Aston Martin’s 2011 model DB9 hoop a drive as prolonged as a one we had programmed?

It’s satisfactory to indicate out that prior to this sold 2011 Aston Martin DB9 evaluation car was handed over, it had only outlaid the tiresome day at Phillip Island competition course. It literally drove from a lane to a dealership, had its tyres altered as well as got the rinse. No oil change, no mechanical servicing. I was simply handed a keys to begin a prolonged tour from Melbourne to Brisbane around Sydney.

2010 Toyota FT-EV Electric Cute Car

Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc. today announced that it will display the Toyota FT-EV concept on opening Media Day at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS), confirming its plan to launch an urban commuter battery-electric vehicle (BEV) by 2012. This announcement, coupled with its compressed natural gas powered Camry Hybrid concept display at the 2008 Los Angeles Auto Show, signal Toyota’s intention to broaden the scope of its advanced alternative-fuel vehicle development.

“Now, more than ever, while we are so focused on the pressing issues of the moment, we cannot lose sight of our future,” said Irv Miller, TMS Group Vice President, Environmental and Public Affairs. “Nowhere is this more important than with our industry’s duty and commitment to provide true sustainable mobility with vehicles that significantly reduce fuel consumption, our carbon footprint and overall greenhouse gases.” The FT-EV concept shares its platform with the revolutionary-new iQ urban commuter vehicle. Already a huge hit in Japan, the iQ is lightweight and seats four passengers in comfort and security, while delivering exceptional mileage, sporty performance, unique refinements and a fun, youthful image.

Toyota’s FT-EV concept imagines an urban dweller, driving up to 50 miles between home, work and other forms of public transportation, such as high-speed rail. Although, for now, the FT-EV remains a pure concept, it represents a natural pairing of product strategies.

“Last summer’s four-dollar-a-gallon gasoline was no anomaly. It was a brief glimpse of our future,” said Miller. “We must address the inevitability of peak oil by developing vehicles powered by alternatives to liquid-oil fuel, as well as new concepts, like the iQ, that are lighter in weight and smaller in size. This kind of vehicle, electrified or not, is where our industry must focus its creativity.” Although BEVs and new smaller vehicles like the iQ will be a key component of Toyota’s sustainable mobility strategy, the conventional gas-electric hybrid, like the all new third-generation Prius, is considered Toyota’s long-term core powertrain technology.

Last year, Toyota announced that it planned to sell one million gas-electric hybrids per year sometime during the early 2010s. To accomplish this, Toyota will launch as many as 10 new hybrid models by the early 2010s, in various global markets. The new third-generation Toyota Prius and all new Lexus HS250h, both debuting in Detroit, are the first two examples of that effort. Also, last year, Toyota announced that it would roll-out a large number of plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHVs) to global lease-fleet customers in 2010. That schedule has been moved up.

Beginning in late 2009, Toyota will start global delivery of 500 Prius PHVs powered by lithium-ion batteries. Of these initial vehicles, 150 will be placed with U.S. lease-fleet customers. The first-generation lithium-ion batteries powering these PHVs will be built on an assembly line at Toyota’s PEVE (Panasonic EV Energy Company, LTD) battery plant, a joint-venture production facility in which Toyota owns 60 percent equity. During its development, the new Prius was designed and engineered to package either the lithium-ion battery pack with plug-in capability, or the nickel-metal hydride battery for the conventional gas-electric system. The 500 PHVs arriving globally in late 2009 will be used for market and engineering analysis. Lease–fleet customers will monitor the performance and durability of the first-generation lithium-ion battery, while offering real world feedback on how future customers might respond to the plug-in process. “Future customers will have high expectations for these emerging technologies. This Prius PHV fleet program is a key first step in confirming how and when we might bring large numbers of plug-in hybrids to global markets,” said Miller. “Our business is no longer about simply building and selling cars and trucks. It is about finding solutions to mobility challenges today and being prepared for more daunting challenges in our very near future.”

2009 Cadillac Converj Concept

Converj: the "Cadillac" FOR ELECTRIC VEHICLES

luxury coupe concept continues GM's leadership in the electrification of the automobile

DETROIT - General Motors unveiled a more potential of electric propulsion today, this time in the form of luxury transportation with the Concept Cadillac Converj. Cadillac Converj was developed as a grand touring coupe well appointed with bold design and a host of interactive technologies.

The concept of four passengers Converj is intended to show how GM's revolutionary electric propulsion - Voltec called - can supply a luxury coupe with a typical Cadillac "no compromise" design. The technology allows up to 40 miles of electrical conduit and gas emissions-free with extended-range capability of hundreds of miles.

Bob Lutz, GM’s vice chairman of Global Product Development, said the Converj concept has production substance. “It’s a logical extension of our plan to reinvent the automobile,” he said. “It clearly shows what a Cadillac electric vehicle could look like, and clearly indicates that global luxury customers can have a car that has both strong design and electric propulsion with a total range of hundreds of anxiety-free miles.”

Cadillac’s extended-range electric vehicle (E-REV) concept has a new body style that is an evolution of the brand’s traditional Art and Science design theme. An aggressive, forward-leaning arc profile is the foundation for the sporting stance. And more than a Cadillac in form, Converj is also intended to be a Cadillac in substance, with the premium materials, technology and driving dynamics that are hallmarks of the brand.

Voltec – innovative propulsion technology
The Cadillac Converj’s Voltec electric propulsion system is made up of a 16-kWh, T-shaped battery, an electric drive unit, and a four-cylinder engine-generator. It uses electricity as its primary source to drive the car.

A thermally managed battery pack contains more than 220 lithium-ion cells that provide the primary power to drive the Converj electrically up to 40 miles without using fuel or producing tailpipe emissions. The battery is integrated into the Converj’s chassis and stores electricity from the grid when the vehicle is plugged in. It takes less than three hours to recharge the battery at 240V, or about eight hours from a 120V outlet.

When the battery’s energy is low, the Converj seamlessly switches to extended-range mode. During this secondary level of operation, electricity needed to power the vehicle is created on-board by a flex-fuel-powered engine that operates much like a home generator to create electricity. The engine-generator ensures a constant supply of power for hundreds of miles until the car is refueled or plugged in to recharge the battery. This extended-range mode eliminates the range anxiety that comes with driving pure electric vehicles that offer no backup power when the battery charge is low.

Whether in electric or extended-range mode, the Converj is propelled all the time by an electric drive unit. It converts electrical energy from the battery or the engine-generator into mechanical energy to drive the front wheels. It also delivers 273 lb.-ft. (370 Nm) of instant torque, for a quick launch, and 120 kW of power. The top speed is 100 mph.

There is no compromise in vehicle performance in either mode of operation. To enhance the ride feel, the Converj also features GM’s Magnetic Ride Control; and for even greater efficiency, energy during braking is captured and stored in the battery.

Pure Cadillac design
There’s no mistaking the Converj for anything but a Cadillac, according to Lutz. “An aggressive, forward-leaning profile hints at a new, progressive theme and proportion in Cadillac’s design evolution,” he says. “The new proportion showcases a uniquely shaped, modern vision of a personal luxury 2+2.”

The overall shape is reinforced by a prominent, sweeping body line with large, 21-inch (front) and 22-inch (rear) wheels pushed to the edges of the body. The Converj exterior is painted a dark silver tri-coat that GM designers dubbed “Reaction.”

An all-glass roof incorporates solar panels that help offset power drain from the vehicle’s accessories. Additionally, several aerodynamic and design efficiencies were incorporated to enhance the driving range, including:
A full under-vehicle cover (belly pan)
Minimal grille openings that reduce drag at the front of the vehicle
Low-profile rearview cameras replace conventional outside mirrors to reduce drag
Wheels are shaped to push air outward for smoother body side airflow

The Converj also incorporates vertical headlamp and taillamp elements, with light pipe technology.

“Vertical lamps are Cadillac signatures and the Converj builds on the brand’s light pipe technology with bolder light emitting diode (LED) and high-intensity discharge elements front and rear,” said Clay Dean, global design director for Cadillac. “There is also a unique daylight light ’spear’ at the top of the headlamps.”

Luxury meets technology inside
The Converj’s interior has advanced features and luxurious appointments blending efficiency and environmental consciousness. The 2+2 configuration is trimmed in contrasting Winter White synthetic suede – including the top of the instrument panel – and Midnight Black leather, with polished aluminum and wood grain accents. Renewable materials are used throughout such as wool-blend carpeting, a headliner made from silk, suede made from post-industrial content and more.

A technologically advanced driver center increases efficiency and reduces the draw on the battery. Features include:
New, organic light-emitting diode technology used on reconfigurable instrument cluster
Touch-screen navigation, climate, center-stack controls and audio systems
Adjustable, overhead white ambient lighting
Unique “power on” sequence featuring blue-lit console graphics
Screen displays for features including regenerative braking, battery charge level and power output
No inside rearview or outside mirrors; cameras provide surrounding images on a screen placed high on the instrument panel for a full, panoramic view
Push-button ignition and power-folding front seats

General Motors Corp. (NYSE: GM), the world’s largest automaker, has been the annual global industry sales leader for 77 years. Founded in 1908, GM today employs about 252,000 people around the world. With global headquarters in Detroit, GM manufactures its cars and trucks in 34 countries. In 2007, nearly 9.37 million GM cars and trucks were sold globally under the following brands: Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, GMC, GM Daewoo, Holden, HUMMER, Opel, Pontiac, Saab, Saturn, Vauxhall and Wuling. GM’s OnStar subsidiary is the industry leader in vehicle safety, security and information services.

SPECIFICATIONS
General
Vehicle type:
2-door, front-wheel-drive 2+2 coupe
Category:
extended-range electric vehicle
Chassis:
independent McPherson struts, front magnetic ride, compound crank twist axle rear, four-wheel disc brakes, full regenerative brakes to maximize energy capture, electric power-assist steering
Seating capacity:
four

Performance
Top speed (mph / km/h):
100 / 161
EV range, city and highway (miles):
Up to 40, based on EPA cycle

Dimensions
Wheelbase (in / mm):
108 / 2742
Length (in / mm):
182 / 4620
Width (in / mm):
74 / 1883
Height (in / mm):
55 / 1386

Battery system
Type:
lithium-ion (w/ liquid-controlled thermal management system)
Energy (kWh):
16
Charge time:
Less than 3 hours at 240V/8 hours at 120V

Electric drive unit
Power (kW):
120
Torque (lb-ft / Nm):
273 / 370

Exterior
Tire size:
specially developed low rolling resistance tires on 21- and 22-inch forged aluminum wheels

SUV Car: Porsche Cayenne Diesel

Porsche Cayenne equips with three-liter V6 turbo diesel engine with 240 hp (176 kW) supplied by Audi AG, a subsidiary of VW. Cayenne Diesel consumption average is 9.3 liters for 100 kilometers, with 244 g CO2 per kilometer. Spontaneous reaction gas and high torque of the diesel engine to deliver the required level of performance for all sport-utility vehicle, as the Cayenne. Substantial torque than 550 meters Newton as a sports chassis dynamics and provides a high degree of control offer driving pleasure which is typical of Porsche.

In response to customer demand, the new Cayenne model will initially be offered in Europe. Preparations for market introduction in other countries are underway.



New diesel-powered Cayenne will be available from retailers from February 2009. Equipped with proven Tiptronic S automatic transmission, as standard, the basic price in euro EUR 47250th In Germany, the Cayenne with a diesel engine, including 19 percent VAT and country-specific equipment costs EUR 56436th.

New Car >> 2010 Opel GTC Paris Concept

At 4,46 m, GTC Paris, an ideal size for a compact, sporty car, but it still offers room for five passengers. Most of the iconic vehicles were taken from the parties. Many people may be the outline, two or three distinct lines. Same with the new concept car Opel in: In Profile, designers maximum voltage, limiting the number of rows in the GTC Paris. As with tendons, a sprinter, these lines create tension and provide sculptural forms. They serve as a basis for highlighting and surfacing to respond and then the wheels in a very sporting fashion.

The Opel signature blade is introduced in the same direction as first seen in the Insignia – a fine, tense crease along the rocker panel. A second line shoots from the door handle to the rear, emphasizing the vehicle’s dramatic stance by spreading the surfaces to a fine undercut and a broad shoulder. The third line following the silhouette of the roof is finished in finely brushed aluminum that accentuates the window graphic, guiding the eye to the sharply distinct integrated spoiler.

The front is clean yet full of character and features Opel’s typical centerline crease. It is further accented by intense, very slim eagle-eye shaped headlamps acting as parenthesis between the refined chrome emblem bar and the dramatic low trapezoidal grill which hints at its sporty character. Signature LED daytime running lights are outlined with finely crafted chrome inserts that can stand as a piece of sculpture by themselves.

The best of Opel’s compact car technology is brought to its sportiest level on the GTC Paris. The chassis has a special design with an extra-wide stance. It features a compound crank with an Opel-exclusive Watt’s link in the rear, a new, updated execution of the adaptive mechatronic FlexRide suspension and a front electronic limited slip differential. The GTC Paris is planted to the ground with dynamic 21-inch wheels.The powertrain in the GTC Paris is a four-cylinder, 2.0 liter Turbo with direct injection, packing maximum horsepower and torque. It is fitted with Start/Stop technology, proving that drivers can combine high performance with maximum fuel efficiency in urban driving conditions. The transmission is a six-speed manual gearbox.

Make Way For The Jaguar

The Jaguar Auto Company was not always known as that agile cat on the path. Back in 1922, the firm was established as the Swallow Sidecar Company. They where in the beginning focused in the design, development and production of sidecar motorbikes. It absolutely was only soon after the second Globe War that the firm has formally changed its name to Jaguar. It holds its factory and headquarters in England to this day. In 1968, the company formed a merger with the British Motor Corporation before it was rule by Leyland Motors.

Jaguar invariably is recognized for its output of fine luxury vehicles. These cars and trucks have continually been seen as a form of a status symbol exactly where typically the elite plus the nicely off demographic of society own a unit. True to its form, the logo or the emblem with the Jaguar is depicted like a leaping Jaguar; in which the front paws are curled and ready for take-off even though the face is fierce as if it were definitely about to attack prey. Four-door saloon designs ended up the ordinarily generated types; these were often utilized as an executive car or truck or the comparable to an estate car. However, they've launched 2-door coupes and sport scars that had been normally opted for by the younger demographic. The Jaguar is known largely for elegance of the designs in the cars. The most commonplace individuals who decide to have a two-door or convertible can be those of bachelors and single women. The convertibles and several similar models have been common to the function and added attract the public.

Though this firm is acknowledged for creating luxury vehicles, it has likewise took part in motor sports. Jaguar debuted inside Australian Grand Prix in 2000. It's completed a total of 85 races to the team. Yet, in 2004, Red Bull purchased the team following Jaguar racing completed their final season.


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The Volkswagen Golf 5- Straightforward a fine automobile

 I experienced earlier a 45 Hp Ford Fiesta, 15 many years outdated and consequently also the initial repairs powering me. In wintertime, I experienced issues with the commence every so often and not really enjoyable to drive. I used to be in initially spot by a number of auto dealers to advertise on the Seat Ibiza, but then closed them again, simply because you 1st again from 1,80 m headroom no longer enjoys, and in the finish of the VW approximately the same charges cash, even though you've got to say feasible that right here much better processing driving it.


You give us the complete gear of the Instrument for Vw, which a single hopes.

On this volume, the final end result, calculated the automobile dealership, the 15% low cost and helps make able to request a invest in contract, which need to be signed after which it back again once again. In fact, not so challenging to be on all of the formalities, and so forth. but this really is totally defined and is achievable with a tad of skill anything. I also decided to decide up the car in Wolfsburg straight and built it for the og MAG Bonte in Brunswick simply to select up the winter weather wheels, since the shipping would have taken one more forty €, which you can very easily save.

And when you invest in a new Volkswagen, You've got to have pick it up in Wolfsburg. The exhibition in the other cars belonging to Vw (Bugatti, Lamborghini, Audi, and so on.) is worth seeing along with the surrender in addition to factory tour quite intriguing and fascinating.

You are able to consume extremely nicely there and remain if essential. They agreed to make an appointment and guide a tour and also the relaxation can be a quasi explained for the ground. Very first of all I was impressed aided by the style whether from front, rear or facet, what can I believe that compete within the value array and dimension without other automobile - beware: this can be my feeling!
But if you sit in it after, you wish to obtain no a lot more authentic.



As referred to over, I've in fact selected the Comfortline, which helps make the car or truck seem from the inside just fine and all fittings are created of higher high quality substantially. There can also be a parking support with sensors around the rear and also the front wheel in conjunction with the distance from the displays. Atlanta in the bundle includes sport seats front integrated at the rear of the rear window and each rear aspect windows 65% darkened.

There are 14 inch aluminum wheels to your right to depart the auto appear sporty, and so on. The added stereo speakers make for a excellent sound practical experience with uncomplicated operation of the radio and CD player for audio and mp3 formats. After which it probably the most necessary:

the 102 HP you are able to sense not just when driving, but also pay attention to truly excellent! So far I've done it as much as 200 km / h, but there is still a lot more which naturally now does not desire to spoil it. The sports suspension guarantees optimum grip inside corners and could be a bit more violent movements without the need of issue. All in all just a amazing driving for adequate funds I advise to every person!

The Top of The Line Mazda

One particular company which has managed to maintain its personal against several contenders ranging from luxury marques and sports vehicles to household vehicles is Mazda. Mazda Motors, headquartered in Hiroshima, Japan, has captured a current market of individual car or truck lovers who gravitate in the direction of high-performance, fun and inexpensive vehicles.




The business was founded in 1920. It was once named Toyo Kogyo. Mazda's three-wheel truck production started in 1931. Mazda can be not match to bigger auto business players like the top 3 producers, but it has succeeded in setting itself apart by adding sporty flavor to its cars. Hence, Mazda has gained a following not just while using leisure-oriented industry but also with executives. It has gained acceptance on the elite set that uses various car or truck users.

Mazda introduced its R360 Coupe, a two-passenger auto, in 1960. A year later, it presented the Mazda B-series 1500 compact pickup. The year 1962 marked numerous milestones for the vehicle maker. It commenced local assembly in South Korea, and also introduced the Mazda Carol 600, a four-door passenger vehicle. The Mazda Familia appeared in October 1963.

Mazda knowledgeable a significant sales slump throughout the 1960s. Mazda applied to be part of the Ford group. It partnered with Ford Motor Company within the 1970s in order to survive the American oil crisis.

Other automotive highlights in Mazda's background include the production of the B360/B600 Keicar pickup truck, the Cosmo Sport 110S, the Chantez keicar, the Luce/RX-4 luxurious automobile and also a minivan called Bongo. The launching in the market of the Cosmo in 1976 made a stir. A lot of car aficionados marveled at the luxury design and competitive price. In the course of the 1980s Mazda seasoned a rebirth, with requirement for its 323 and 626 soared inside the U.S. current market. In 1990, the Mazda MX-5 Miata also helped with brand strength and company vigor.

To date, Mazda continues to increase its marketplace reveal. One of its innovations, the Mazda5, is probably one of the most agile minivans in the market.


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BMW "No Reverse" Transmission Problem

An automatic transmission is just that- automatic, consequently most people tend to pay very little attention to it until a major problem rears its ugly head.

Picture the scenario- you are driving along in the lap of luxury, the satellite radio blaring and the heated seats on. You have become accustomed to the comfort level and great driving experience brought to you by BMW.



You decide to stop at the local convenience store on your way home to grab some ice cream for the kids and a bottle of water for yourself. Upon returning to your car, you start it up, check your rear view mirror, put the shifter in reverse and then the unthinkable happens- the engine just revs as if it is in neutral and the car goes nowhere!

This article deals with the reasons behind an unexpected loss of reverse in certain BMW automatic transmission equipped vehicles, specifically the 3 series and 5 series vehicles that use the ZF5HP19 or steptronic transmission. This includes the popular 323i, 323ci, 325i, 328i, 330i, 525i, 528i, 530i, X3 and X5 models well as some others built in the 1999 to present model years.

To eliminate confusion, this does not apply to vehicles equipped with the GM 5L40 E transmission, just the ones with the sometimes problematic ZF5HP19. The 5L40 E has some issues of its own that are beyond the scope of this article but are certainly going to be the subject of another.

The failure rate for these transmissions seems to be very high and is expected to become much more of a problem as time goes by.

Typically, the vehicle is working perfectly while driving forward but when it is put in reverse there is a complete and permanent loss of movement to back up.

Reverse is typically a major feat for any transmission to accomplish- imagine the demands that are placed on a gearbox as it is asked to reverse the torque of your engine so that you can back up your nearly 4000 pound vehicle.

By far, the most common cause of the reverse problem in BMW's is the failure of the D-G clutch drum. Specifically, the snap ring that retains the D or reverse clutch breaks out of the clutch drum resulting in an inability for the clutch pack to apply.

The good news is that there is hope in regards to a proper repair. The factory has released an updated part that so far appears to be a permanent fix for this problem.

In our testing and in conjunction with several hundred successful repairs at our facilities, the new part seems to be metallurgically superior in several ways.

We have found that there is an improved radius area as well as slightly thicker casting. In addition to this, the grove that retains the snap ring is also relocated further away from the edge of the drum.

With this issue addressed and attention to detail in several other areas of the ZF5HP19 unit, the transmission can be repaired to "better than new" condition by a competent transmission rebuilder / remanufacturer. In fact, when properly repaired, the ZF gearbox becomes quite robust and can provide an almost indefinite service life.

ABT Sportsline Car Tuning

This is a tuner that has a priority on brands VW, Audi, Skoda and Seat. Located in Kempten im Allgau, Germany. Discovered by Johann Abt with first degree on race Trophe de l'Avenier. In 2003, his business was continued by his brother Hans Jurgen Abt and Christian Abt. Since 1999, after a victory in Super Touring reinforcements, they decided to participate in the event with the Audi A4 DTM berengsi as the base car. And to commemorate that achievement, made Audi TT-R ABT Sportsline seris in 2002.

 Some claim that a famous ABT AS4-R, based Audi A4 Avant. Using a bi-turbo 2.7-liter V6 with power up to 480 hp. Modified Luxury & Exotics magazine gave the title "That delivers a grocery getter." Next was the Audi R8-R supercharged with features, 2.4-liter V8 engine with power up to 530 hp.

AC Schnitzer car tuning

This is a special tuner of BMW and Mini. But also today expanded its on BMW motorcycles. Been around since 1987, where they make high performance components for BMW include the chassis, custom exhaust system, lightweight racing wheels and aero kits. Many of the parts they are officially distributed at BMW dealerships around the world (738 dealers and 45 branch offices).

Among the BMW mania, AC Schnitzer name spelled Have a glorious prestige. One of the best achievements when they are bearing the "Fastest Street Legal BMW Thew IN The World" for the BMW M6 Tension. This is evidenced in Nardo Italy with power tracks 552 hp maximum speed 331.78 km / hr.

Filsosofi AC Schnitzer is a high performance driving performance, safety and reliability. In addition, the AC Schnitzer also makes interior parts made of carbon or aluminum for quality contol panel, steering wheel, pedals and other interior molding

History Of Lexus Car Company (Traces Of Hard work)

Mercedes-Benz takes a century to build a reputation as the largest luxury carmaker in the world. Likewise, BMW, Cadillac, Jaguar and a luxury car brands others began building his reputation in the early 20th century.

Lexus only took a decade to climb to the level occupied by Mercedes-Benz and others that.

Lexus was phenomenal. Not just a shining sales figures, but also numerous awards from all corners of the boost his reputation. That's all the result of hard work to create quality products, supported by marketing strategies sniper and first class customer service.



The emergence of the Lexus can not be separated from the automotive business conditions at that time. Where the Japanese car producers felt it was time to get into the luxury car segment after successful mencipatkan quality mass production cars at competitive prices.


In fact, although the Japanese car brands famous for kehandalnya, but for incoming kelingkaran luxury car brands which are held by Germany, England and America, it is very difficult. To get around that obstacle, it was decided to prepare a new brand specifically for luxury car brands.

Lexus trip since the idea of listening to his name flying now coined, many historical milestones that unfortunately missed. Includes a stumbling block that must be passed.

Challenges Eiji Toyoda

August 1983, Toyota Chairman Eiji Toyoda, Toyota to make sure it was time to ascend to a higher level. In the super-secret meeting, attended by high-ranking Toyota officials-including the strategist and engineer, submitted a brief question, Can we create a luxury car to challenge the best? Answer vigorously not only that but the room echoes resonate in the mind of every person, these challenges must be overcome.

Autumn 1984; Project F1 starts. The letter F stands for flagship and most luxurious sedan one depicted. Chief Engineer Shoiji supported Jimbo and Ichiro Suzuki all general managers and engineers overseeing the development of all aspects of a car, ranging from the handling, braking, traction control, engine, electronics systems and corrosion.

In its development, Jimbo team conducted a study in the USA (May 1985). They met with the dealers in San Francisco, Houston, Miami, and New York to get an idea about the American consumer. Five members of the team sent to Laguna Beach, California to observe the lifestyle and incorporate design concepts to fit the luxury-car buyers in America. This team spent the summer in Southern California and worked with designers at Calty Design, Toyota's American design studios.

The first prototype unit 450 F1 was made in July 1985 successfully. This is the work of 60 designers, 24 engineering teams, engineers 1.400, 2.300 and 220 technicians supporting people. 11 months later the F1 prototype was tested on Autobahn, Germany. Ten months of extensive testing on the streets USA starting September 1986. This test produces improvements in handling and suspension. Also include an audio system and the long distance test. Tests in Sweden generate traction control improvements. F1 final design is approved, after eight failed presentation to management.

Sued the Lexus brand, the award came

January 1988, the Lexus brand and its logo was introduced at the Los Angeles Auto Show. A month later his debut at the Chicago Auto Show, also without a car only images of actual car, an intriguing video show and a pinch of general information. This introduction was continued at Atlanta Auto Show and the New York Auto Show. The blue-presume, Lexis, a legal information network, filed a lawsuit against the use of a Lexus. April 1988 filed a lawsuit to court in New York. Lexus continues to be marked with the laying of road stone for the construction Lexus of Columbus in Ohio in August 1988.

November 1988, F1 prototype named the LS 400. LS mean luxury sedans and 400 showed 4.0-liter V8 engine. Smaller version named 250 ES. ES is an executive sedan with 2.5-liter engine. A month later the Lexus took Nakamichi and Pioneer sound system to produce the LS 400. January 1989; LS 400 and ES 250 to debut at Detroit Auto Show. A day later, the Lexus appeared on the Los Angeles Auto Show.

March 1989, the Court lawsuit stir Lexis and Lexus has the right to use that name. The success was greeted with the first units were produced from the factory Lexus LS 400 in Tahara, Japan in May 1989. In the first four months of sales, 2.919 1.216 units of the LS 400 and ES 250 units sold.

Lexus started a new tradition of customer service standards. Just because a customer complained about the cruise control and several complaints about the stop lamp, Lexus decided to recall LS400 sold 8000 units to be examined in December 1989. Dealers contact the customer personally and make improvements quickly. Instead of criticism, even compliments are obtained. Lexus has created a new standard in personal service.

January 1990, Car & Driver magazine put the LS 400 s in the position of the peak at 1990 New Car Buyer s Study. Since then, endless awards given at the Lexus. Among Best Imported Car of the Year from the Motoring Press Association (February 1990), Best Luxury from Motor Week's Drivers' Choice Awards. Peak, topped the Lexus in JD Power and Associates Initial Quality Study (July 1990). Award of J.D. Power is very prestigious to be subscribed Lexus for years.

May 1991, Lexus SC400 sports coupe launched. In design at Calty Design, California. Starting July Coupe is marketed. Followed by the launch of SC 300 in August and in September 1991menggantikan ES 300 ES 250. This year, Lexus became the biggest-selling imported luxury car in the USA. 71.206 units sold, more than Mercedes-Benz or BMW.

The threat of trade war

January 1993 Lexus introduced the GS 300 luxury sport sedan in Los Angeles and Detroit Auto Show. May 1995, a big threat comes from the U.S. Trade Representative Mickey Kantor will set a 100 percent import duty for certain Japanese luxury cars, including all Lexus models. The proposed new duty for workers in the 7500 Lexus threaten America. 11 hours of negotiations in June 1995 succeeded in reaching an agreement between the USA and Japan as well as an end to the potential trade war.

A month later the Lexus was elected again as the best in JD Power and Associates Customer Satisfaction Index for the sixth consecutive. No other brand can equal in the history of this research. Lexus sales in August 1995 to recover from the effects of the new duty plan.

January 1996; LX 450 was introduced and became the first Lexus SUV. Only in the two months immediately grab the top best-selling luxury SUV, the Range Rover shifts. September 1996; Lexus ES 300 introduces a new generation of cheaper, although there are additional features. Three months later, this model won the award Top Car Award from the American Automobile Association.

In February 1997 Lexus introduced the concept of Sport Luxury Vehicle (SLV) in the 1997 Chicago Auto Show. SLV combining characters mid-size SUV with the comfort of a luxury sedan and Performance on-road that has not been found in other SUVs. A month later, Lexus announced the production version, named SLV RX300. This model was produced from mid 1998.

Lexus introduced the technology Variable Valve Timing-intelligence (VVT-i) to gain more power in September 1997. Starting from the latest generation GS400/300, LS 400 and SC 400 / 300.

Lexus introduces the LX 470 at Los Angeles International Auto Show in December 1997. Using the new V8 engine, more spacious rooms and a sophisticated suspension height can be arranged. Meanwhile, Lexus sales skyrocketed. Sales in 1997 recorded 20% more than in 1996.

January 1998; RX300 was introduced in the North American International Auto Show. March 1998, LX470 and RX300 started to be marketed in 174 dealers throughout the USA. RX 300 sales immediately shot. December 1998; Lexus best annual sales record in history. Sales reached 156.260 units, up 60% compared to 1997.

Sales skyrocketed

A month later introduced the Lexus IS compact sport sedan at the Detroit Auto Show and will ship mid-2000. For the first sale of the first quarter (January March 1999) Lexus beat out Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Lincoln and Cadillac.

Lexus introduced the Lexus Sport Coupe concept at the Tokyo International Motor Show in October 1999. December 1999, its fourth annual Lexus sales record ever made. Sales in 1999 reached 185.890 units or an increase of 19% compared to the previous year. Total sales of Lexus in the USA has more than one million units.

January 2000, Lexus introduced the IS 300 at the Los Angeles Auto Show and LS 430 at North American International Auto Show in Detroit. At the 2002 North American International Auto Show, Lexus introduced a third SUV, GX470. This year, Lexus introduced the RX 330, the second generation RX300.