Ex-Ferrari Designer Heads to Lotus

The upper echelon at Lotus continues to evolve, with today's announcement that Donato Coco has been appointed as the new director of design at the UK sports car maker and engineering consultancy. The Italian designer is moving to Hethel from Ferrari headquarters in Maranello where Coco worked on recent products like the F430 Scuderia coupe, Spider 16M, California, 599XX and the new F458 Italia. Prior to his Ferrari tenure, Coco was the chief designer at Citroen.

With Coco's hiring, Lotus hopes to bring its design expertise up to par with its engineering work for other automakers. Coco will also oversee the design of the upcoming Lotus product range which will continue to be led by current design head Russell Carr. With Coco and Carr, Lotus will be producing an Evora convertible, an all new Esprit and eventually a new Elise and Exige in the coming years.


Text as seen at Autoblog.com

P540 Superfast Aperta

The first shake-down has been held at Fiorano of a very special one-off, the P540 Superfast Aperta, built for an American client. The car, the second in a new Special Projects programme created by Ferrari to meet requests from the most discerning clients and collectors to create truly unique models, is based on the 599 GTB Fiorano and was inspired by a Carrozzeria Fantuzzi-designed Ferrari built specifically for the 1968 Fellini film, Toby Dammit, itself inspired by one of the tales of Edgar Allan Poe.

The P540 Superfast Aperta’s proud new owner, Edward Walson, son of John Walson, the inventor of cable TV, approached Ferrari in 2008 to produce a modern reinterpretation of the gold-coloured car in the film. “I had always dreamed of designing sports cars,” Walson explains, “and when I saw this film the decision came of its own accord: one day I would have ‘my’ Ferrari.”

In accordance with the Special Project’s approach to producing such individual one-offs, the P540 Superfast Aperta respects all existing international safety and homologation requirements and is thus road legal. The car was designed by Pininfarina and built in Maranello, and the client was directly involved in each stage of its development. As the 599 GTB Fiorano donor car is a coupé, considerable effort went into strengthening the chassis by using finite element analysis in development and the increase in weight was kept down to just 20 kg by employing carbon-fibre extensively. From the initial sketches to the final, road-legal car took just 14 months.


Text as seen at italiaspeed.com

458 Italia Wins Top Honors!

The Ferrari 458 Italia has scooped two prestigious awards from BBC Top Gear Magazine, one of the world’s most influential automotive magazines. Not only did the British monthly nominate the 458 Italia “Supercar of the Year”, but also, for the very first time for a Ferrari, the coveted title of “Car of the Year”. This brings Ferrari’s tally of consecutive BBC Top Gear Magazine awards to the astonishing figure of eight in seven years.

The Ferrari 458 Italia was revealed at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September to immediate critical acclaim. Following an extensive international media test drive programme in Maranello, the home of the fabled Prancing Horse, the car has been the subject of enthusiastic reviews, with its handling, roadholding, ride comfort and performance all being subject to the kind of superlatives rarely seen from the world’s leading journalists.

In electing the Ferrari 458 Italia as their Supercar of the Year, BBC Top Gear Magazine underlined how it has established “the new benchmark in getting from A to B as rapidly as possible.” They also described the 570-hp V8-engined berlinetta as “a game-changing car.”

When nominating the car for the overall top award as Car of the Year, the magazine described how it became “our winner because the scope of its abilities is absolutely breathtaking”, concluding that the Ferrari 458 Italia “isn’t just a worthy winner, it’s off the scale!”

As seen in Top Gear Magazine

RUMOR: Lotus Gives Go-Ahead to New Esprit

We have liftoff on the next Lotus Esprit. Finally. Scuttlebutt at the beginning of the year suggested it was taking so long because Lotus was pondering some sort of hybrid system for the car. More recently the talk has turned to three specimens from Toyota's book of engines, including the Lexus LFA's V10, and the word "hybrid" disappeared.

It's the V10 that interests us here, because Lotus is planning for the new Esprit -- or whatever it will ultimately be called -- to have 275-325 bhp per ton. Even if they keep it freakishly lightweight you're looking at a minimum of 400 horsepower, something Lexus' Yamaha-tuned lump could easily handle. We'll get the full picture in a few weeks when new Lotus CEO Danny Bahr unveils his long-term plan for the company.


Text as seen at Autocar. com

Alonso Arrives in Maranello

Today early in the morning, just after 8am. Fernando Alonso arrived at the gates of the Scuderia Ferrari for his first contact with the new team, although still not as an official member due to his contractual commitments regarding image management, which still tie him to his previous team and his sponsors.

The first meeting was with Stefano Domenicali, who then left him to the technicians, who started to work with the driver on the upcoming season’s programme. Between meetings connected to the new single-seater’s project Fernando visited the wind channel to see the model and worked on the sitting position in the car’s cockpit, while the day ended just after 5pm. Before leaving Maranello, Alonso was received by Chairman Luca di Montezemolo, who personally wanted to welcome the Spaniard at Ferrari in a cordially meeting of around half an hour.

Today’s intermezzo was a couple of laps on the Fiorano race track with the 458 Italia, naturally in red: as he couldn’t yet drive a red Formula 1 car Fernando wanted to feel the emotion of driving a Ferrari on the track where all the Prancing Horse’s single-seaters are born and raised.

Text as Seen at Ferrari.com

599 HGTE China sells for $1.77million

The one-off Fiorano was hand painted by Chinese artist Lu Hao with a pattern reminiscent of the sought-after Ge Liln porcelain of the Song Dynasty. This unique example was sold on Tuesday to an anonymous collector from Shanghai, who paid the equivalent of $1.77 million for the privilege.

The proceeds are earmarked towards helping aspiring Chinese automotive engineers to make it to Italy for further studies and an internship opportunity at Maranello. On hand for the auction event, held at the Red Gate Gallery in Beijing, were the artist, Ferrari executives, faculty members from the participating schools and none other than Michael Schumacher himself.

Text Courtesy of Autoblog.com

LFSC Expands with Addition of Lotus

We are pleased to announce that we are now the Midwest's newest factory authorized Lotus dealer.

Lotus is both a logical and exciting addition to the LFSC’s campus and its family of exclusive, European products.Lotus has a full range of sports cars including the new 'Lotus Evora' which will begin arriving in this country very early in 2010. The 'Evora' represents a new dimension for Lotus which is the 'GT' or 'Touring' niche.

Traditionally Lotus's have been small, ultra light weight, minimalistic vehicles as much or more adept to the track than the street.The 'Evora' retains the light and nimble characteristics of all Lotus's, but is designed to be more driver and passenger cockpit friendly stressing ease of entry, interior comfort and space.

Lake Forest Sportscars will soon have lotus vehicles on display. Look for LFSC to schedule a Lotus introduction event soon as well as a Lotus vehicle becoming part of the LFSC motorsports program for 2010.

Alonso to Join Scuderia Ferrari

Maranello, 30th September 2009 - Scuderia Ferrari Marlboro announces that it has reached an agreement with the driver Fernando Alonso. The agreement covers three racing seasons, starting in 2010.

The Scuderia's driver line-up next season will therefore be made up of Felipe Massa and Fernando Alonso, with Giancarlo Fisichella in the role of reserve driver.

Kimi Raikkonen will leave the team at the end of this current season, after what has been a rewarding and fruitful partnership, which saw him win the Drivers' title in 2007. He also played a key role in Ferrari's taking of the Constructor's title that same year and in 2008.

"We are very proud to welcome to our team another winning driver, who has demonstrated his amazing talent by winning two World Championships in his career to date," said Stefano Domenicali. "Of course, we wish to thank Kimi for everything he has done during his time with Ferrari: in his first year with us, he managed to win the Drivers' title, thus making his contribution to Ferrari's history and he played a vital role in our taking of the Constructors' title in 2007 and 2008. Even during a difficult season like this one, he has demonstrated his great talent, with several good results, including a great win in Spa and we are sure that we can share more good times together in the final three races of this season."

"With common consent, we have agreed to terminate the contract binding me to Ferrari to the end of 2010, one year ahead of schedule," said Kimi Raikkonen. "I am very sad to be leaving a team with which I have spent three fantastic years, during which time I won plenty of races. Together, we have won 50% of the world titles in that period and I managed to take the Drivers' title in 2007, thus achieving the target I had set myself at the start of my career. I have always felt at home with everyone here and I will have many happy memories of my time with the team."

Ferrari Press Release

458 Italia - Named Best in Show

The Frankfurt auto show is massive, and this year's event did not let anyone down. The world's automakers gathered and brought along a veritable buffet of new supercars, electric-powered concepts and distinct road cars. AutoWeek editors made the mile-long trek from the front gates of the Frankfurt Messe to the BMW hall several times and have concluded that Ferrari's new 458 Italia deserves our Best in Show award.

It wasn't easy to pick a winner in each of the four categories--that's how good this year's Frankfurt show was. But each of the award winners will be remembered for years to come.

BEST IN SHOW: Ferrari 458 Italia

It is rare when there are more than a few in the race for this coveted title, but that was the case at Frankfurt, when no fewer than eight manufacturers had vehicles in the final. When the scrapping was over, Ferrari's 458 Italia triumphed.

The 458 wears voluptuous, organic shapes tied together with technical and efficient lines. No matter when you see this car in the future--in five years or 50 years from now on a concours lawn--it will always be the one that debuted at Frankfurt in 2009.

As Seen in Autoweek

Official 458 Italia Video Released

Ferrari 458 Italia Official Video - Two 458 Italia sports cars challenge each other on the Mugello circuit and in the Tuscan hills, this official video was directed by Alexander Paul!

458 Unveiling - Maranello, Italy

Two members of our staff, joined the worlds Ferrari Dealers in Maranello this past Monday and Tuesday for a World Dealer Meeting and Grand Unveiling of the All-New 458 Italia!

4 Italias were on showcased, one in typical Ferrari Rosso Corsa and the other three in New Ferrari Triple Layer Pearl colors (Yellow, Black, Red). A massive step forward with regard to innovation over its predecessor, the 458 boasts an all new aluminum chassis, all new aluminum body, and an all new 4.5L motor capable of 570 bhp at 9000 rpm. As well as a brand new interior that takes cues from Ferrari's Formula 1 car, with many of the controls moved directly onto the steering wheel itself!

This car is sure to make a splash when the worlds public get to lay eyes on it at this years Frankfort Motor Show which opens Sept 17th.

Fisichella to Replace Badoer

Maranello, 3rd September 2009 - Scuderia Ferrari Marlboro announces that it has appointed Giancarlo Fisichella to drive car number 3 from now to the end of the 2009 season.

“We have chosen Fisichella because we can expect him to make a valuable contribution in this final part of the season,” commented Stefano Domenicali. “Giancarlo has shown, throughout his long career, that he is fast and competitive and we are therefore proud to be able to run an Italian driver in our home race. We wish to thank Luca Badoer for the team spirit he demonstrated in these circumstances: it is a shame he was unable to show his true worth in these last two races, tackled under conditions which anyone would have found difficult.”


As seen at Ferrari.com

Maserati GranCabrio - First Pics

The Maserati GranCabrio, the first four-seater convertible in the Trident carmaker's history, will make its world wide debut on September 15 at the upcoming Frankfurt Motor Show.

The introduction of the GranCabrio – the Trident’s third prong – completes Maserati’s product line-up that now consists of three different families of models: Quattroporte, GranTurismo, GranCabrio.

The GranCabrio will be powered by a 4.7 liter V8 motor, as seen in the GranTurimo S and has the longest wheelbase of any convertible on the market. The GranCabrio’s roof will be available strictly in canvas, emphasizing its link with the Maserati tradition.

The Maserati GranCabrio will be marketed starting this winter, and will be enjoyed by customers the world over by Spring 2010.

458 Italia - Thinly Disguised

As the countdown to its world première at the Frankfurt IAA in just four weeks begins, Ferrari's sensational new 458 Italia has been spotted out testing on the roads around the Maranello factory wearing only a very thin disguise and clearly revealing the stunning lines that have caught the automotive world's attention since the new V8 mid-rear engined berlinetta was officially announced last month. Set to replace the F430 in the Pracing Horse model line up the 458 Italia is described by Ferrari as a "massive leap forward from the company’s previous mid-rear engined sports cars."

Courtesy of www.italiaspeed.com

Schumi Cancels his F1 Return

FERRARI PRESS RELEASE
Maranello, 11th August 2009 - With Michael Schumacher now being unavailable to stand in for Felipe Massa, as from the forthcoming European Grand Prix, Scuderia Ferrari Marlboro announces that car number 3 will be driven by Luca Badoer.

"I am very unhappy that a problem means that Michael cannot return to racing," commented Luca di Montezemolo. "In the past few days, I could appreciate his great efforts and extraordinary motivation which had spread through the team and fans around the world. No doubt his return would have been good for Formula 1 and I am sure it would have seen him fighting for wins again. In the name of Ferrari and all the fans, I wish to thank him for the strong attachment he displayed for the team in these circumstances. In agreement with Stefano Domenicali, we have therefore decided to give Luca Badoer the chance to race for the Scuderia after he has put in so many years of hard work as a test driver."
END

The problem being referred to by Montezemolo is a nagging neck injury that Schumacher sustained in a motorcycle accident that occurred earlier this year in February. Michael addressed the issue on his website earlier today, "...fractures in the area of the head and neck, unfortunately have turned out to be still too severe. That is why my neck cannot stand the extreme stresses caused by Formula 1 yet."

Unfortunately the world will have to wait and see what is next with the Seven Time World Champion!

Schumi tests F2007 Ferrari

Michael Schumacher declared himself satisfied with his first Formula 1 test since April 2008 after reacclimatising using a 2007 vintage Ferrari at Mugello today.

In preparation for his comeback substituting for the injured Felipe Massa in Valencia at the end of August, Schumacher completed 67 laps of the Italian track in the two-year-old car, which had been supplied by Ferrari's F1 Clienti department. The F2007 was running on GP2 specification slick tyres.

Schumacher set a best time of 1m23.736s, and although the unusual machinery made direct comparisons difficult, the fastest time recorded during the Ferrari F60's week-long test at Mugello in January was a 1m23.981s by Massa.

"It's a great thing getting back on the track with an F1 [car] even if this was a car from 2007 from the F1 Clienti department with slicks usually used in GP2 and obviously there is no real point of reference," said Schumacher.

"After a couple of laps I was able to drive costant lap times and I'm happy with the performance. Now we've got to see how my body and the muscles respond in the next days."

Ferrari is still awaiting a response from rival teams to its request for an exemption to the testing ban to let Schumacher try the 2009 car before Valencia.




Text as seen at autosport.com

Massa to Return to Brazil

Today, Dino Altmann revealed to journalists at the AEK Hospital in Budapest, where Massa has been treated since his accident during the weekend of the Hungarian Grand Prix. That "Felipe continues to improve, he is doing very well, and we already decided to go back home on Monday to Brazil," following up by stating that "He will fly to Sao Paulo."

Altmann said "there was no need" for the Brazilian to be taken to FIA Institute deputy president Gerard Saillant's clinic in Paris, where Michael Schumacher was also treated after he broke his leg in an accident ten years ago.

"He has to continue his recovery and go back racing as soon as possible, that's the plan," Altmann added. "No special treatment." "He is in very good mood, he is in good shape. He wants to come back soon."

Massa Out of Intensive Care

A Ferrari spokesman has confirmed that Felipe Massa moved out of the intensive care unit at Budapest's AEK hospital on Wednesday.

"The most important situation is that Felipe is out of intensive care and now in his own private room," the team spokesman said. "He is speaking more or less normally and he has managed a few steps so, from a clinical point of view, everything is going in the right direction," Ferrari's Luca Colajanni added.

The Maranello based team confirmed that Michael Schumacher is scheduled to fill in for as long as it takes the 28-year-old Brazilian to recover from the Hungarian GP qualifying crash.
Massa's doctor Dino Altman said he is hopeful he will be able to return to Formula One at some point, telling reporters the Ferrari driver "doesn't seem to have a long-term injury".


Courtesy of motorsport.com

Schumacher to Drive for Massa

Scuderia Ferrari Marlboro intends to put Michael Schumacher in Felipe Massa's car until the Brazilian driver is able to return to racing again after sustaining a serious and potentially life threatening head injury. The injury was caused by a spring which came loose from one of the Brawn GP cars and struck Massa in the head.

Michael Schumacher said he is ready and, over the next few days, will undertake a specifc training programme at the end of which confirmation will be given of his participation in the Championship which would take effect from the European Grand Prix on the 23rd of August.

Ferrari 458 Italia Unveiled!

The first official pictures of Ferrari's new 8 cylinder mid-engine sportscar have finally been unveiled and they are in a word...Stunning!

A 4.5L V8 capable of 562 bhp at 9000 rpm combined with an upgraded 7 speed dual clutch transmission, as first seen in the new California, will no doubt make the All-New 458 Italia blindingly fast! Claims put the car at 0-62 in under 3.4 secs and a top speed of over 200mph!

The first time the general public will get to lay eyes on the latest master piece from the boys in Maranello will be at this years Frankfurt Auto Show in September.

HGTE Upgrade for Current 599 Owners

Officially available as a Ferrari Genuine Accessory package, Ferrari is now offering the Handling GTE upgrade to current 599 owners.

Available on 599 models produced before 2008, Ferrari is offering Handling, Exhaust and Aesthetics kits for totaling roughly $28,280. The Handling kit includes a 10mm lower suspension, recalibrated suspension settings, stiffer springs and thicker anti-roll bars, stickier tires and light-weight three piece modular rims.

The Exhaust kit throws in new silencers and two-tone tailpipes with the Aesthetics kit adding unique grille and Ferrari badging.

Those cars produced after 2008 will also be eligible for Ferrari’s Performance kit. That kit will include the aforementioned Exhaust kit, improved shift times for 599s equipped with Ferrari’s F1 gearbox and a modified ECU for better throttle response. The Handling, Performance, Exhaust and Aesthetics kits will list for roughly $32,000.

Aston Martin's City Car "Cygnet" Revealed

Aston Martin has yet to release specific details on their new city car project dubbed "Cygnet" such as price and a potential release date, either way the company CEO Ulrich Bez is high on the project. “Much work is still required, but I am confident that this project could become reality in the not-too-distant future,” Bez said of the Cygnet. Surfacing reports suggest the Cygnet will list from 23,000 euros ($32,300), with roughly 2,000 examples slated to be produced each year.

Unlike other supercar makers such as Ferrari and Lamborghini, Aston Martin doesn’t have a parent company to leverage fuel economy averages. As such, Aston needs a car like the Cygnet bring its emission average in line with new standards slated to take effect in 2012. The Cygnet will be the first of the city cars to wear such an elite badge, which should give the model a bit of exclusivity.

Schumacher and the 599 HGTE

Michael Schumacher covered about 20 laps of Fiorano on Wednesday at the wheel of the 599 GTB equipped with theAll-New Handling GT Evoluzione package.

The Handling GT Evoluzione package for the 599 GTB Fiorano includes a lower, stiffer ride, a new tire compound offering even better levels of grip, modified magnetorheological damper settings that improve body control and an even more sporty exhaust sound.

The HGTE package also includes a number of styling touches that distinguish it from the standard production car, including a more aggressive front grille, specific 20" rims and abundant use of carbon-fibre trim in the cockpit.

Best of the Best!

Robb Report magazine has presented Maserati with the trophy for their Best of the Best award in honor of the all new 2009 Quattroporte Sport GT S.

Every year Robb Report magazine, an authority on the luxury lifestyle, conducts a series of tests across categories to find the best of luxury, including cars, yachts, watches, resorts and wines.

The Quattroporte Sport GT S won the Best of the Best trophy in the sedan category, beating some very worthy competition including the Bentley Continental Flying Spur Speed and the new BMW 750Li.

This is actually the third time the Quattroporte has won the Best of the Best trophy from Robb Report – the Quattroporte won in 2004 and the Quattroporte Sport GT model won in 2006.

Only new or revised products are eligible to enter the Best of the Best competition, which means the Quattroporte is essentially a back-to-back-to-back winner, winning every time the car was eligible for the competition (when it was first introduced in 2004, with the introduction of the Sport GT model in 2006, and now with the redesigned 2009 Quattroporte).

Maserati is proud of this recognition for the Quattroporte, seen by the press as the ultimate in luxury performance sedans.

Massa eyes F1 Record

Felipe Massa could join an exclusive club of very illustrious talent if he manages to win next weekend's Turkish Grand Prix. With the exception of the inaugural Istanbul event in 2005, the Brazilian driver has won every Turkish Grand Prix.

Only four other drivers in the history of Formula One - Juan Manuel Fangio, Jim Clark, Graham Hill and Michael Schumacher - have won four successive races at the same venue.
The dominance of the Brawn team and Jenson Button is likely to be a spanner in the works of Massa's hopes, but Ferrari's flagging form took a big step forward last weekend in Monaco.
And Massa, who won his first Grand Prix in Turkey in 2006, "loves" the Otodrom layout, also securing pole position in the last three years.

"It is a fantastic track for me, a very pleasurable track for me to drive, like the big turn eight, very challenging," he said. Only one driver in F1's history has won five consecutive races at the same track: Ayrton Senna at Monaco (1989-1993).

Also in Turkey next weekend, drivers' title leader Button could if he wins a sixth race in seven attempts, snatch Schumacher's record for the best ever start to a championship campaign.
In 2002, German Schumacher won five of the first six races with his Ferrari, but finished second to David Coulthard at the seventh.

Article as seen on Motorsports.com

Maserati N.A. announces new CEO

Maserati announces Mark McNabb as the new CEO of Maserati North America, he replaces Marti Eulberg who left the company on April 21st of this year.

Mark joins the Maserati family after spending the last 13 months as the head of Sales and Marketing for GM's "Premium Channel" which is comprised of Cadillac, Saab, and Hummer brands.

Prior to his time with GM, Mr. McNabb had spent significant time with the Nissan/Infiniti Group as well as Mercedes Benz.

DB9 & V8 Vantage Styling Enhancements

Aston Martin is pleased to announce the release of some accessory packages to complement the styling of DB9 and V8 Vantage. These enhancements can be used together or individually to suit a customers specific tastes.

DB9 Options:

• Magnum Silver Mesh Kit - comprising of Bonnet and Side Strake Meshes and Rear Diffuser with Mesh.


• Clear Rear Tail Lamps - comprising of clear rear lamps for DB9 Coupe and clear rear lamps and clear CHMSL (Centre High Mounted Stop Lamp) for DB9 Volante. Currently these lamp packs will only be available for 08MY cars onwards only. For pre-08MY cars a small software update is required, which is currently in development and should be available shortly.
  
• DB9 Sportspack retrofit - which was originally released as an available retrofit in November 2006.

V8 Vantage Options:

• Revised Side Sill - comprising of side sills and stone chip tape. Which creates an extended profile and improved stance with the revised side sill as seen on V8 Vantage N400.


• Magnum Silver Mesh Kit - comprising of Bonnet, Side Strake and Front Lower Meshes. Please note that this kit is only available for cars without front PDC (Park Distance Control).


• Clear Rear Tail Lamps - comprising of clear rear lamps and CHMSL for both V8 Coupe and Roadster. Currently these lamp packs will only be available for 08MY cars onwards only. Pre-08MY cars also require a small software update, which is currently in development and should be available shortly.

For DB9 Styling Enhancment Information...CLICK HERE

For V8 Vantage Styling Enhancement Information...CLICK HERE

The Ferrari California has Arrived!

On Friday April 17th, 2009 Lake Forest Sportscars took possession of our first Ferrari California, in traditional Rosso Corsa livery the California will be on prominent display in our Ferrari showroom for all to see. For more information on the Ferrari California, or to arrange an appointment for a product presentation and test drive contact one of our knowledgeable Ferrari Sales Specialist.

Maserati GranTurismo MC

The all new Maserati GranTurismo MC race car, based off the the GranTurismo MC concept was officially unveiled at the FIA GT Media Days at the Paul Ricard Circuit in France.

The car had previously participated in the "balance of performance" test at the Paul Ricard curcuit back on March 17th and 18th. The two day practive is set up to analyze the different models which will be competing against each other once the GT4 European Cup season begins.

The car will go on sale to the public starting in October 2009 and will be excusively available thru Maserati Corse in Italy. Then beginning in 2010 Maserati intends to revive the ideals of a single make series with the creation of a single European Cup Race for the new GT4 cars.

F1 Viewing Party - Australia GP

On Sunday, LFSC hosted its first F1 viewing party of the year. We would like to thank all those brave souls that fought the weather conditions to join us, and for making the first viewing party of the 2009 season a success.

For those who were unable to make it, we have initiated the first LFSC F1 Chanpionship Contest, as an interactive way for those in attendance to get "more" involved. With some fantastic prizes at seasons end for the winners we certainly look forward to the next event to see how, the next round effects the leaderboard!

To view the current standing for the LFSC F1 Championship Contest...Click Here

Aston Martin One-77

Aston Martin has released the third in a line of teaser videos produced to further illustrate the complexity and elegance of the new One-77 supercar. Since the Geneva Autoshow more information has been made available to the general public, and all signs point to a car, the likes of which have never been seen. Aston Martin has dipped into its bag of tricks and will deliver 77 lucky (and wealthy) individuals a truly bespoke beauty!

For more pictures of the stunning engineering that went into the underpinnings of the Aston Martin One-77 Click Here

Todt Resigns from Ferrari Board

At the Annual General Ferrari Stockholders' Meeting, Chairman Luca di Montezemolo announced Jean Todt's decision to resign his membership of the Ferrari Board of Directors and as well as all of the other positions he holds within the Company. "Jean Todt has been one of the leading protagonists of the Ferrari story of the last 15 years," declared Montezemolo. "Skill and passion have always characterised his work and have won him the respect and affection of my staff, the Company as a whole and Prancing Horse enthusiasts everywhere."

Quattroporte Sport GT S

2009 Quattroporte Sport GT S continues to impress!

The All-New 2009 Quattroporte Sport GT S has made its official European debut at the Geneva Auto Show. In addition to the Geneva launch, the first press cars have begun to make the rounds and the reviews are magnificent, the new QP is one of the finest luxury sporting sedans ever built! Conceived and developed as a real driving machine in the guise of a luxury sedan, the Quattroporte Sport GT S is the ultimate expression of Maserati's sportiness in the Quattroporte range.

There are a few technical changes to the new Quattroporte Sport GT S when compared to the Quattroporte S in four key areas:

• The mapping of the V8 4.7 l engine, with power increased to 440 HP (323kW)
• The gearshift management software, with new features designed to increase driving enjoyment
• The front and rear suspension system featuring single-rate dampers, stiffer springs and lower ride height
• The sport exhaust controlled by pneumatic valves for a deep, throaty and captivating sound

The sportier and more aggressive look is evident when viewing the cars interior and exterior styling choices:

• The new black grille with concave vertical fins featuring the Trident logo with red accents, typical of the sportier versions of Maserati models
• The new headlights, in metallic titanium finish
• The new sporty M-design seats with Alcantara and leather upholstery
• The standard trim in Titantex, a "titanium colored" composite material

For the Top Gear review of the 2009 Quattroporte Sport GT S... Click Here

Montezemolo: "Ferrari Testing Hybrid Prototype"

Ferrari president Luca Cordero di Montezemolo confirmed at the Geneva Motor Show on Wednesday that Ferrari is in the process of testing a 599-based prototype vehicle with a hybrid drivetrain.

“We have to understand how you can benefit from hybrid technology,” explained company CEO Amedeo Felisa. Ferrari aims to reduce its CO2 emissions 40 percent by 2012. This certainly track with recent Ferrari chatter that they are considering turbocharged six-cylinder engines as as a means to its reaching just such an efficiency goal.

Montezemolo also mentioned that important technology from their F1 effort will make there way to the future production models. “We are currently working on the development of a Ferrari that will use alternative energy sources and which will be based on what we are doing at the moment in Formula 1,” he said. This seems to reference the Kinetic Energy Recycling System (KERS), which uses regenerative braking to enhance efficiency, which was one of the most dynamic rule changes for this upcoming 2009 F1 season.

Lagonda - Update

The wraps have been official removed from AML's new Lagonda Concept. Along side the Aston Martin stand in Geneva the Lagonda stand features a small one car display, a back drop with images that harck back to Lagondas of old, as well the first official Lagonda concept of the past few decades.

The car is a retro-styled, luxury sedan that will utilize an all-wheel drive system and is pointed directly at high-performance and exclusivity. “An Aston Martin is an authentic, pure sports car,” says Aston Martin Lagonda Chief Excutive, Dr. Ulrich Bez, “but Lagonda is something else, a new brand that will reach into new markets. Lagonda will create a new kind of customer relationship, instilling the spirit of travel, adventure and style into a single, formidable package." He continued, “The Lagonda is the luxury car of the future, a combination of total usability, a new form and innovative new technology and materials.”

For more pictures of the All-New Lagonda Concept from the 2009 Geneva Auto Show... Click Here

Ferrari 599XX - Update

With the start of the Geneva Auto Show upon us, the first pictures of the 599XX have now begun to make there way around the internet. And as you can see from the pictures above the 599XX is the second Ferrari "laboratory vehicle" and makes for a fitting partner to the FXX, which was based off of the magnificent Ferrari Enzo.

The nose of the street legal 599 has been replaced with an aggressive front fascia, complete with a carbon fiber front splitter. More wings and a massive rear diffuser are located towards the rear end of the 599XX, with enough aerodynamics to create 630 kg of downforce at 185 mph.

Underhood, the 599XX uses a modified 6.0L V12 – cranking out 700 horsepower and capable of revving to 9,000 rpms. That power is put to the road via unique black wheels, fitted with purpose built racing tires and Carbon ceramic disc brakes will be used to bring this beast to a halt.

No pricing has been released but, with very few being built, expect it to match the cars extreme level of exclusivity!

For more pictures of the Ferrari 599XX from the 2009 Geneva Auto Show...Click Here

Lagonda

Chatter has increased that AML (Aston Martin Lagonda) will debut its first concept Lagonda at this years Geneva Auto Show. In an move to attract more of the ultra-luxury market, the concept thought to be a sedan, will aim to pick up the customer who is looking for a more luxurious alternative to Aston Martin's more sporting heritage.

"The revival of the Lagonda brand would allow us to develop cars which can have a different character than a sports car, and therefore offer a perfect synergy," said Dr. Ulrich Bez. "Lagonda will use a unique design language, as Aston Martin does. We will take elements of DNA from the past but will be very future orientated as we are with Aston Martin."

Bez continued by saying, that Lagondao would be "exclusive, luxurious and truly versatile products with high quality and usability and suitable for both existing and emerging markets."

With Geneva Press days starting next week it won't be long until the world gets a glimpse of Lagonda's future.

599 HGTE Package - Update

The first official pictures have been released by Ferrari of the updated 599 Handling GT Evoluzione (HGTE). The Official World Debut will occur at the 2009 Geneva Auto Show and will be joined by an even more impressive sister car the 599XX. The 599XX follows in the footsteps of the FXX super car, as a study in technology and innovation achieved by Ferrari, in both F1 and Road-Going research, and is aimed at an ultra select group of clients.

Along side the 599 HGTE and the 599XX, will be the rest of the Ferrari line-up which includes the Scuderia Spider 16M, the 430 Scuderia, as well as the Ferrari's two Grand Tourer models the all new California, and the elegant 612 Scaglietti OTO.

DBS Volante

With the Geneva Auto Show rapidly approaching. Aston Martin has officially released the first images for the production DBS Volante. Sharing the same 510 bhp 6.0L V12 powerplant from the coupe, making it capable of 0-62 in 4.3 seconds. Expect to see all the same creature comforts from the DBS coupe including the all new Bang & Olufson BeoSound DBS Audio System.

In comments made by Aston Martin CEO Dr. Ulrich Bez, “The DBS Volante delivers the utmost relaxed driving experience with the hood up or down. It combines engineering excellence with design perfection.” Illustrated in the fact that the DBS Volantes top will retract in just 14 seconds at speeds up to 30 miles per hour and will stow beneath an automatic, hard tonneau cover.

The Geneva Auto Show will be one of the most important in recent company history with Aston Martin launching 3 new production models. The DBS Volante, as well as Rapide, Aston's flagship sedan which will both make an appearence along side the V12 Vantage. Unfortunately only 2 of these 3 beauties are destined for the States as the limited production V12 Vantage is being produced exclusively for Europe.

GranTurismo S - Auto

The latest addition to the Maserati family is scheduled to makes its debut at the 2009 Geneva Auto Show. Mating the tradtional automatic transmission from the 4.2L GranTurismo with the all new 4.7L motor from the limited production GranTurismo S. The automatic GranTurismo S should become the perfect car for those looking to indulge in both performance and touring styles of driving.

Subtle exterior differences separate the 4.7L Automatic from the current 4.2L Automatic, including more pronounced sideskirts and redesigned 20-in. wheels. The rest carries over, including the electronically-configurable Skyhook suspension system. The infotainment system has also been updated to include Bluetooth and iPod capability.

Record Year at Ferrari

PRESS RELEASE

- Another record year for Ferrari
- ROS rises to 17.6%
- Investments at 18% of revenues
- Growth continues in Emerging Markets
- Complete energy self-sufficiency within 12 months

The Ferrari S.p.A Board of Directors met today under the chairmanship of Luca di Montezemolo to examine the Company's end-of-year figures for 2008.

Once again in 2008 Ferrari delivered results that beat all previous Company records. The strong Return on Sales (ROS) growth seen in recent years continued, reaching 17.6% compared to 15.9% in 2007. This was an outstanding result in the car sector in general and is especially impressive given the very tough economic backdrop against which it was achieved, particularly in the second half of the year.

This important result comes courtesy of Ferrari's diverse range of products and strict cost-cutting measures. That said, investments in research and development increased, reaching 18% of revenues in 2008. Improvements and efficiencies also helped compensate for unfavourable dollar and sterling exchange rates.

In addition to the above-mentioned structural improvements, Ferrari also launched a range of major commercial initiatives in 2008, including the new One to One Personalisation Programme for its 12-cylinder models and a new client assistance programme. Ferrari also enjoyed strong growth in the Brand related activities (licensing, retail and e-commerce) with +28% overall, the e-commerce segment performing particularly well, as revenues there boomed by over 65%.

Commenting on the figures, Ferrari Chairman Luca di Montezemolo declared: "Ending 2008 with results unprecedented in the entire history of the Company is the best endorsement we could have of our strategy of exclusivity, innovation and focus on people. These results beautifully cap a truly exceptional year that saw us once again at the top in Formula 1, winning our 16th Constructors' title, our eighth in the last 10 years."

"The economic climate in 2009," continued the Ferrari Chairman, "still remains very uncertain as the crisis takes its toll across the globe and it is hard to say how the situation will develop from here. That means, of course, that Ferrari will have to lavish even more attention on every single detail and continue to innovate whilst preserving the exclusivity of our products with respect to market demands."

Ferrari ended the 2008 financial year with revenues of 1,921 million euro, an increase of 15.2% on the 1,668 million euro recorded in 2007. This rise comes mainly as a result of sales of the 430 Scuderia and the excellent performance of both the 612 Scaglietti and 599 GTB Fiorano 12-cylinder models which benefited from the launch of the One to One Personalisation Programme. The Ferrari California, however, made no contribution to the 2008 figures as the first examples are only being delivered to their owners in the next few days.

A total of 6,587 cars were delivered to end clients in 2008, an increase of 2% with respect to the 6,465 cars delivered in 2007. North America remains the Prancing Horse's largest market with 1,700 cars (26% of the world total) sold there in line with the 2007 figure, a particularly significant result given the economic downturn there. Sales to Eastern Europe continue to grow (+23%) while deliveries to the rest of Europe were in line with the results achieved last year.

Sales to the Middle East and South Africa continue to grow, with 366 cars delivered, an increase of 12% on the previous year's figure. In the Asia-Pacific region, Ferrari delivered 1,089 cars to end clients. Japan remains the primary market in terms of sales volumes with 433 cars delivered to end clients in 2008, an increase of 15%, while we exceeded 200 cars delivered in China for the first time, an increase of 20% on 2007 to 212.

On a further positive note, Ferrari returned a trading profit of 339 million euro in 2008, an increase of 27% on previous year's figure.The Prancing Horse's licensing activities also enjoyed strong growth with revenues up by 35% in 2008 and the figures from the 25 Ferrari Stores worldwide were very positive with overall revenues increasing by 16%. Ferrari also boosted its internet and www.ferrari.com activities in 2008. E-commerce grew by over 65% while a series of special events, including the launch of the Ferrari California and the unveiling of the new F60 single-seater, drew millions of hits from all over the world.

During 2008, Ferrari continued its investment into new car development, setting aside the equivalent of 18% of the Company's revenues for R&D. Ferrari also continued with its investments in safety in the workplace in 2008. It spent in excess of 4 million euro on structural work and specialist training, achieving major improvements in all areas of the company. Particularly significant in this process was the new "near-misses" alert system which actively involved company's employees. Defibrillators were also installed throughout the Ferrari complex.

2008 also saw the launch of an in-house energy production plan. A newly unveiled photovoltaic plant and a trigeneration plant due to be completed within the next few months, will mean that Ferrari will meet all of its own energy requirements within the next year.

In terms of its workforce, as of December 31st 2008, Ferrari employed around 3,000 people, a little under half of whom are office staff.Continuing its emphasis on people-focused activities, Ferrari also launched its Scuola dei Mestieri in 2008. This new programme is designed to provide training inside the plant which is not normally available outside Ferrari in specialist skills to allow our employees to enhance both their career prospects and professional development and improve their mobility within the company.

Ferrari also broadened the range of employee services in 2008. These now include special mortgage deals of up to 100% for first and second homes and renovations, banking facilities with very attractive conditions and discounts on school books for trainees and school children. There is also a preventative health plan featuring specialist visits, physicals for all employees and their children and free gym usage.

599 HGTE Package

Reports have surfaced about the creation of an HGTE (Handling Gran Turismo Evoluzione) package for the 599 GTB. Slated for a potential launch in Geneva, the package could include an updated front grill, revised exhaust, new wheel styling, thicker anit-roll bars and stiffer springs for improved handling. It is said that the 599 HGTE could have a slightly revised interior with an new design for driver and passenger seats.

The addition of the HGTE pack to the 599, would put the Fiorano in line with previous 12 cylinder models that had handling packs added part way thru production, such as the 575 HGTC and the 612 HGTS. Rumored to be roughly $30K the HGTE pack would make the already brilliant 599 an even more pointed driving experience.

Aston Martin V12 Vantage

Scheduled for a public unveiling at this year’s Geneva show, the V12 Vantage has a 6.0-liter motor that, in addition to delivering the aforementioned horsepower figure, also serves up 420 pound-feet of torque and a zero to 60 mph time of 4.2 seconds.

The engine features a number of enhancements over the standard 6.0-litre V12 found in the DB9. These include a ‘by-pass’ engine air intake port that opens up at 5500 rpm, a revised induction system and re-profiled air inlet ports that further improve airflow into the combustion chamber to improve performance.

While the external dimensions of the V8 Vantage remain unchanged, the internal front structure has been extensively revised forward of the suspension towers to house the larger engine, brake cooling system, and twin air intake system.

Unique to the V12 Vantage is a the ability to toggle button between two powertrain modes. The default ‘normal’ provides a more progressive, throttle response, suited to more everyday situations. Selecting ‘Sport’ mode delivers a sharper throttle response together with a sportier exhaust note.

In default operation, the Dynamic Stability Control is automatically switched on. Depressing the DSC button for two seconds selects ‘track mode’ which raises the manner and threshold at which the system intervenes allowing the driver to explore the limits of the car’s considerable handling capabilities. Depressing the button for four seconds will switch off DSC completely.

Although the V12 engine weighs 220 pounds more than the standard car’s engine, the vehicle’s overall weight is only increased by 110 pounds. This is possible due to widespread use of lightweight materials, including carbon ceramic brakes, forged aluminium wheels, lightweight rear quarter panels, and optional lightweight seats. Weight distribution is a near-perfect 51:49.

The V12 Vantage’s Carbon Ceramic Matrix discs are 398 mm in diameter at the front and 360 mm at the rear while the brake callipers feature six pistons at the front, four at the rear and have a larger brake pad area compared to the V8 Vantage. Air ducts positioned within the lower front grille feed air directly onto the discs to aid cooling.

Exclusively available with a six-speed manual transmission, the gearbox uses a transaxle configuration to aid weight distribution. The V12 Vantage’s final drive ratio has also been modified from 3.909:1 to 3.71:1. This allows the Vantage to take full benefit of the high torque levels delivered by the engine to provide both flexibility at lower engine speeds as well as a high top speed of 190 mph.

Deliveries of the V12 Vantage are expected to commence during quarter three 2009 with prices to be confirmed at a later date. Production will be limited to between just 300-500 examples per year.

Article and text from leftlanenews.com

Aston Martin Rapide

Ahead of its Official Launch later this year Aston Martin has released the first official images of the production version of their new uber-luxury sports sedan, the Rapide.