Tag Archives: Chassis

News

New Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale is brand’s last combustion supercar

The latest addition to the Alfa Romeo lineup, the 33 Stradale, is a stunning combustion-powered supercar. In order to keep the weight at a minimum, Alfa Romeo has utilized carbonfibre for the monocoque chassis and aluminum for the body frame. The window frames also feature carbonfibre, and lightweight door hinges are installed to support the Stradale’s eye-catching butterfly doors.

Alfa Romeo CEO, Jean-Philippe Imparato, expressed his enthusiasm for the new 33 Stradale, stating that the objective was to create a vehicle that honors the brand’s heritage and satisfies the Alfisti community. He further assures that this is not the end, as the 33 Stradale is the first “fuoriseries” car since 1969, with more to come in the future.

When it comes to design, Alfa Romeo has strived to emulate the proportions of the original car as closely as possible. The iconic ‘V’-shaped grille, known as the Scudetto Shield, graces the front of the 33 Stradale. The overall profile is optimized for aerodynamics and reflects the brand’s commitment to both functionality and aesthetic appeal.

A priority was given to improving aerodynamics, which led to the integration of an air intake into the headlights and a rear spoiler that directs air into the side intakes. These features contribute to minimizing drag and enhancing the car’s overall performance. Alfa Romeo intends to carry forward design elements such as the new-style ‘V’-shaped grille, elliptical bonnet, and LED lines in the headlamps to their future models.

The interior of the 33 Stradale boasts a driver-centric layout, utilizing lightweight materials like aluminum and carbonfibre. The extensive use of Alcantara further emphasizes its supercar status. Alfa Romeo CEO, Jean-Philippe Imparato, has previously stated the company’s commitment to driver-focused interiors, and the 33 Stradale exemplifies this commitment. The center console features few buttons, reducing distraction, and a state-of-the-art 3D head-up display, claimed to be an industry-first, serves as the main digital interface.

News

First drive: Inverted Range Rover Classic

The Inverted Range Rover Classic has undergone several upgrades. The rear springs have been made stiffer to handle the battery’s weight, and adjustable dampers from Fox (known from the Ford Raptor) have been installed. While the rear brakes are standard, the front brakes now feature four-pot calipers and discs from Alcon.

Many components are sourced either from a donor Tesla (such as the brake booster) or from aftermarket suppliers (like the battery management system).

Despite being Inverted’s first project, the Inverted Range Rover Classic feels comfortable to drive, especially once you select the appropriate setting. The standard mode has a lot of dead travel at the top of the throttle pedal and no regenerative braking. However, if you switch to Off-Road mode, it functions similar to a Tesla: the dead spot is replaced by regenerative braking, although the brake pedal still only affects the friction brakes. Inverted offers customization options for the amount of regen based on customer preferences.

Unlike a Tesla, power delivery is not instant. You need to keep your foot on the pedal for a while as the power gradually increases. While this may sound inconvenient, the vehicle always has enough power, adding a sense of engagement. Just imagine the thrill of unleashing 450bhp on a 1970s off-roader. Sport mode provides a more direct response but is still gradual enough for a smooth driving experience.

Inverted claims that the motor has the potential to deliver 600bhp, although 200bhp would suffice. It is important to note that this is not a vehicle designed for high-speed driving. The grip levels are modest, there is significant body roll, and the steering is both slow and humorously vague, lacking self-centering.

News

Armoured BMW i7: A Luxury Electric Car Designed for Heads of State

BMW has introduced armoured versions of its flagship saloon, offering enhanced protection with features such as protective glass, a reinforced chassis, and bodywork capable of withstanding explosives. This marks the first time the current generation of the 7 Series receives an armoured edition, with the electric BMW i7 also receiving its own Protection model.

Both vehicles are equipped with an armoured steel body known as the BMW Protection Core, which reinforces the doors, underbody, and roof. The company claims that this provides “maximum protection” against explosives, bullets, drone attacks, and hand grenades. Moreover, they feature VPAM 10-rated protective glass, the highest level of protection available for civilian protection vehicles.

The 7 Series Protection is rated VR9, meaning it can withstand ballistic attacks from high-velocity weapons traveling at speeds of up to 820 meters per second. It also offers PAS 300 blast resistance and includes a self-sealing fuel tank to prevent fuel loss.

The vehicles are also equipped with PAX 20-inch light-alloy wheels, specifically designed for them. These wheels feature a run-flat ring that allows driving at speeds of up to 50mph even when the tires have no air.

Due to the additional protective bodywork, the performance of the two cars is somewhat compromised.

The i7 Protection model is powered by two electric motors, generating 536bhp and 549lb ft of torque. While the standard i7 achieves a 0-62mph sprint in 4.7 seconds, the i7 Protection model takes 9.0 seconds to reach the same speed. Its top speed is limited to 99mph.

On the other hand, the 7 Series Protection is equipped with a 4.4-liter V8 mild-hybrid petrol engine that produces 522bhp and 553lb ft of torque. Its 0-62mph acceleration drops from 6.6 seconds to 4.2 seconds, with a top speed limited to 130mph.

Featured

1-of-15 900HP Off-Road BRABUS Crawler For Sale

The BRABUS Crawler is a unique adventure vehicle that combines supercar-inspired power with elegance. It is the first supercar from BRABUS to have its own independent chassis. BRABUS is excited to offer this BRABUS Crawler for sale on duPont REGISTRY Discovery, joining their impressive lineup of vehicles. This trailblazing vehicle features a resilient tube frame and an open, four-seat body made of high-quality carbon. It has a rugged design with no doors or windows on the front, sides, and rear.

The BRABUS Crawler is designed to withstand extreme off-road adventures. It is equipped with 20-inch BRABUS Monoblock HD forged wheels, sturdy aluminum struts developed specifically for this model, and adjustable shock absorbers. With over 20 inches of ground clearance, it can tackle any terrain with ease. The interior of the Crawler features bespoke carbon racing seats upholstered with vibrant red TechFX fabric, which adds to its unique look.

The BRABUS Crawler comes with advanced features such as a GPS navigation system for precision navigation in uncharted territories. The interior also features red anodized elements, including pedals, footrests, and aluminum GPS unit mounts, which add a touch of style. For seamless communication, the Crawler includes a sophisticated 2-way communication system that can be used with the integrated intercoms in the four carbon helmets provided.

At the heart of the BRABUS Crawler is the BRABUS Rocket 900, a powerful 4.5-liter V8 twin-turbo engine. The specially developed turbochargers produce an astonishing 900 horsepower, delivering unmatched performance. The Crawler can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.4 seconds, thanks to its upgraded Mercedes-AMG engine. This limited-edition BRABUS Crawler is currently available for sale on duPont REGISTRY Discovery.

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Triumph Releases Motocross Model Chassis Information

The highly anticipated Triumph motocross bike has become a reality, and now we have access to the chassis information! Recent social media posts by Ricky Carmichael hinted at exciting news regarding the new Triumph motocross bikes. However, he did not share any details, which left the internet feeling dissatisfied. Fortunately, Triumph has just released the first episode of a video series that will focus on various aspects of their new motocross machines. The inaugural episode sheds light on the chassis. While an official release date has not been announced, Triumph assures us that the new motocross bikes will be available later this year.

News

Caterham unveils lightweight electric sports car for 2026

Jannarelly explained that the new car is like a soft sheet draped over the chassis. He emphasized the importance of the visible architectural elements of the Seven, stating that its enduring appeal is due to its form following its function. For the electric version of the Seven, Caterham is working with Swindon Powertrain. The prototype, weighing just 700kg and equipped with 322bhp, will be showcased at Goodwood to demonstrate Caterham’s commitment to agility and speed. Caterham has established a new business unit, called ‘Caterham EVo,’ to oversee the Project V related matters.

Q&A: Bob Laishley, CEO, Caterham

Can Project V be profitable?

According to Laishley, the business case for Project V shows it can be profitable. While they need to sell more cars than the Seven to achieve a return on investment, the numbers are still within a reasonable range. The investment required for Project V is significantly higher than what Caterham has spent before but much lower than what big automotive manufacturers typically spend.

Why is it important to attract new customers?

Currently, Caterham sells 600 cars with a production capacity of 500 cars. This sustains the current business, but to profit from Project V, they need to increase sales. Initially, they are targeting annual sales of 2000 units, with the potential for growth over time. Laishley acknowledged the need for growth but also emphasized the importance of maintaining credibility and not exaggerating projected sales figures.

How will Project V be positioned in the market?

Laishley expressed frustration with the constant need to compare pricing and features to other cars. He believes purchasing a sports car is an emotional decision rather than an objective one based on practical considerations. Therefore, direct comparisons based on specific features or price savings may not accurately capture the appeal or value of a sports car purchase.

News

New 2023 BMW X1 M35i: A Powerful Performance Upgrade

The new BMW X1 now has a performance variant called the M35i, which aims to rival the Mercedes-AMG GLA 35. This upgraded model features various chassis and engine enhancements.

Under the hood, the X1 M35i is equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder petrol engine, similar to the ones found in the BMW 2 Series Coupé, Morgan Plus Four, and Toyota GR Supra. With upgrades, this engine now produces 296 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. It can accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in just 5.4 seconds, slightly slower than the GLA 35 by 0.2 seconds.

All-wheel drive is standard on the X1 M35i, and power is transmitted through a seven-speed torque-converter automatic gearbox. Improved traction is achieved with the addition of a mechanical limited-slip differential at the front end.

For enhanced handling, the M35i comes with adaptive suspension as standard, lowering the ride height by 15mm compared to regular X1 models. The stability control and traction control systems have also been revised, allowing for faster corrective inputs.

On the outside, the M35i features a more aggressive bodykit with larger air dams at the front, along with a prominent rear spoiler and a quad-exhaust-pipe arrangement.

The interior of the M35i receives sportier seats with increased bolstering. Optional M Sport buckets are available as well. The steering wheel is adorned with M Sport stitching, while the rest of the interior remains similar to the standard X1.

The price for the X1 M35i in the UK starts at £45,995, which is £7,125 less than the GLA 35 but nearly £6,000 more than the outgoing Mini Countryman JCW. European customers can expect deliveries to begin in November.

BMW X1 M35i 2023 interior

News

New 2023 BMW X1 M35i brings 296bhp for £45,995

The M performance variant of the new BMW X1 has arrived, bringing a range of chassis and engine tweaks aimed at usurping the Mercedes-AMG GLA 35.

Called the X1 M35i, it’s powered by an upgraded version of the turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine featured in the BMW 2 Series Coupé, Morgan Plus Four and Toyota GR Supra, among others. In the M35i, its power and torque outputs peak at 296bhp and 295lb ft, allowing the crossover to complete the 0-62mph sprint in 5.4sec – 0.2sec behind the GLA 35.

Power is delivered to all four wheels through a seven-speed torque-converter automatic gearbox, with a mechanical limited-slip differential improving traction at the front end.

As for chassis tweaks, adaptive suspension is fitted as standard to the M35i, which sits 15mm lower than conventional variants of the X1. The stability control and traction control systems have also been revised to reduce the length of their physical connections, allowing them to provide corrective inputs up to 10 times faster than before.

New 19in alloy wheels are fitted as standard, reducing unsprung weight and providing enough room for optional M Compound brakes. These discs – 385mm drilled units up front and regular 335mm items at the rear – are made from cast iron and aluminium and are claimed by BMW to improve stopping power while further reducing unsprung weight.

BMW X1 M35i 2023 interior

To further distinguish the M35i from regular X1s visually, it receives a more aggressive bodykit with larger air dams at the front. At the rear is a more prominent spoiler and quad-exhaust-pipe arrangement.

Inside, the M35i gains a pair of more aggressively bolstered sports seats, but buyers can also specify the optional M Sport buckets pictured here. An M Sport leather stitched steering wheel is standard, but the rest of the interior largely mirrors the regular X1.

Prices start from £45,995 in the UK – £7125 less than the GLA 35 but nearly £6000 more than the outgoing Mini Countryman JCW. European deliveries begin in November.

Cars

2024 Mercedes-AMG S63 E Performance First Drive: Electrifying Tradition

Chassis settings, along with engine and transmission response, steering weight, and sound, are keyed to seven drive modes. These include Electric, Battery Hold, Comfort, Sport, Sport+, Slippery, and Individual. Electric activates all-electric driving, Battery Hold saves the charge for later, Slippery is for white-knuckle situations, and Individual allows you to mix and match settings. That leaves Comfort, Sport, and Sport+ as the modes that reveal this car’s true character.

Comfort mode provides the full S-Class land yacht experience. The engine is on but not fully awake, so ambient noise remains fairly low. The ride is at its plushest. Motoring down California’s Pacific Coast Highway, our test car’s carbon-fiber interior trim and AMG badging were the only indicators that we were in an AMG model.

Switch to Sport mode, and you get a subtle burble to remind you that there is in fact a V8 under the hood. As with many other performance cars with programmable drive modes, the steering becomes unnecessarily heavy, but still allows for a fine level of control—which you’ll definitely need to aim a car of this size down a twisty road.

In Sport mode, the S63 no longer feels like an ordinary S-Class. Nor does it just feel like a big car with a powerful engine. It has the confidence-inspiring poise of a true sports sedan, one that impresses not only with its ability to move its considerable girth around corners, but also makes the experience enjoyable. Cars that rely this heavily on tech to overcome the laws of physics can be quite dull, but this is definitely one that makes you want to take the long way home. And that’s before shifting to Sport+ mode, which offers more of everything without making the car too uncomfortable for long stints.