Buick Verano (2011)[Reviews]

The new luxury sedan 2012 Buick Verano compact, the third model of the new brand over the past two years and the first compact luxury segment, made its debut at the 2011 North American International Auto Show.

Buick Verano will go on sale in the fourth quarter of 2011, the latest model of a product renaissance that began and continued Enclave LaCrosse and Regal. Like them, the luxury Buick Verano distinct and technology, including 10 airbags as standard, available heated steering wheel and the next generation of radio system power connectivity with OnStar, which allows continuous communication between the driver and the smartphone Buick Verano.

2.4l Ecotec and six-speed automatic is standard, and the combination produces about 177 horsepower (132 kW) and 170 Nm of torque (230 Nm), 00-60 mph performance of 8.0 seconds and about 31 mpg on the highway. 2.0L turbo engine will be offered in the future.

"Verano expands our range, continuing the momentum of Buick and gives us an excellent opportunity to attract a new generation of customers with a product that meets their expectations in terms of design, performance and technology," said John Schwegman, vice president of Buick marketing. "This is a smart choice that offers an unexpected luxury in a compact sedan - and compete head to head with competitors from Audi and Lexus."

Sculpted design

Summer Buick bears the marks of modern design and Buick Enclave presented and interpreted for the LaCrosse and Regal. These include a bold chrome grille jump detailed black, translucent blue ray prominent headlamps projector, windows, chrome wheels, premium body measurement and the relationship of the wheel. An arched roof line connects a steeply raked windshield and fast-sloping rear pillars give the car a sporty profile that is complemented by large 17-inch multi-spoke forged alloy wheels in Sterling Silver finish. Two conceptions of premium 18-inch wheels are available.

"The language reflects the sculptural design of Buick Summer in a new format, with all the refinement and attention to detail developed by the Enclave and LaCrosse," said Dave Lyon, director of design. "Beyond all this is just a superb car. It has great proportions and sophisticated details that look great for years to come."

Unique Buick Verano is a translucent blue projector beam headlamps, which give the vehicle a distinctive look and sophisticated. Brilliant color palette also seems to improve the Premium Claret Red Tintcoat and White Diamond Tricoat. Other exterior color choices are blacks, Olympic White, Switchblade Silver Metallic, Cyber ​​Gray Metallic Mocha Bronze Metallic.

Luxurious rooms

Complementing Buick Verano is precisely dosed, prime-accented exterior is an interior marked by the unusual seat comfort and support, and premium soft-touch materials, including ambient lighting inspired by the LaCrosse. Metal and wood paneling and warm ambient light makes the interior of a welcoming environment.

Neutral colors and titanium-sized interiors are available in leather / cloth seating surfaces, while Ebony and Cashmere Choccachino one color available in leather-trimmed interior. Summer Buick uses the same raw material for leather seats used in the LaCrosse.

The dashboard of the mixtures with a built-in battery that holds the center of the screen infotainment controls, climate and radio controls. Components integrated into the center console has a space for tolerance of less than 1 mm, while the holes in the panel doors are less than 5 mm. These limits are among the best in its class.

Cover Buick Verano headliner is made of knitted material, which is one of the five layers of acoustic headliner designed to help quiet the cabin. Interior columns and lists are of color and texture-matched headliner.

A refined and sensitive

High energy density 2.4-liter Ecotec four-cylinder, dual overhead cam head, variable valve timing and E85, the standard engine in the summer Buick. It produces an estimated 177 horsepower (132 kW) and 170 lb.-ft. of torque (230 Nm). Direct injection technology helps produce more power with less fuel and reduce emissions - including up to 25 percent reduced hydrocarbon emissions compared to engine multipoint fuel injection. The engine is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission that allows the Summer Buick providing an estimated 31 mpg on the highway. Steering and a more efficient transmission with optimized fuel consumption.

Front suspension uses McPherson disconnected from better insulation, increasing the separation in extreme driving conditions - big shock, for example - the driving conditions everyday. Behind the Z-link watts technologically advanced design allows the center of the rear axle during cornering, which helps keep the answers read Verano Buick symmetrical on both left and right turns. The possibility of contacting the central axis of curves to produce more balanced driving experience because of the rear suspension to improve the management of the front suspension.

Z-link model is also lighter and takes up less space than the typical independent rear suspension. Less weight affects fuel economy of Verano Buick, but the compact design allows more luggage space.

Control inputs make an electronic power steering, dual rack and pinion. Electric power control to save fuel, because it eliminates the traditional power steering pump motor driven accessories. Engineers tuned speed-dependent power system will provide rapid, direct reaction to the control measures and a strong sense of center. The system has a ratio of 15.5:1, and requires only a little over two turns lock to lock.

Brake operates a four-wheel disc brakes with standard ABS and electronic brake force distributor and StabiliTrak electronic stability control with traction control.

Buick Regal GS (2012)[Reviews]

 Buick unveiled the production version of the Buick Regal GS 2012, an expression of the even sportier Regal sport sedan, which is on sale in 2010 and attracted new buyers to the family Buick. Powered by a high output, excluding Ecotec turbocharged 2.0-liter mated to a six-speed manual, GS provides an estimate of 255 horsepower (190 kW) and 295 lb-ft of torque for a 0 to 60 kmh performance in less than seven seconds (estimated). Buick Interactive Drive Control System is standard on the GS, so motorists to adjust the driving experience by changing the suspension settings and steering sensitivity between three modes: standard, sport and GS.

"Built on the basis of performance for Regal, Buick Regal GS has been designed as an expression even more athletic performance and style," said John Schwegman, vice president of marketing for Buick. "The driving experience is living and powerful, and GS represent the next record in the Buick product renaissance. "

The exterior features a unique front and rear fascias, a front fascia includes a strong, vertical slot air inlet, specific grille treatment - vertical elements accented satin silver metallic. The rear fascia has a pair of integrated metallic satin trapezoidal tailpipes. Rocker extensions, and integrated rear spoiler also woven into the design. GS cuts with a sporting attitude, too, with a structure slightly lower than the other models, and an aggressive 19-inch 5-twin-spoke alloy wheels and all-season tires (20-inch 5-twin-spoke polished alloy wheels performance tires are optional).

The interior is a race-inspired, flat-bottomed sports steering wheel and sport pedal metal, with leather upholstery 12-way power driver seat adjustment and front passenger heated sport, including four-way power lumbar positions. GS-black on the inside ceiling is accentuated by specific elements in the dashboard and steering wheel console, while the white dash lights up when the driver activates the GS Control Unit (SIAC Interactive).

Turbocharger and HiPerStrut

Power Regal GS comes with a high-performance version of the Ecotec 2.0L VVT DOHC turbocharged engine with direct injection technology. It is based on the engine, which is available in the CXL Regal later this year, but the engine and the turbocharger is calibrated to produce more boost pressure and GS. Power is rated at 255 hp (190 kW) and 295 Nm of torque (400 Nm). Three-inch diameter exhaust system provides reduced pressure, engine

The direct injection technology helps the engine more power through increased efficiency, while maintaining fuel economy and lower emissions. This means less fuel is consumed and lower emissions - including a decline of 25 percent of hydrocarbon emissions at cold start. Variable valve timing to optimize power efficiency and emissions over the entire rpm band.

"We are combining direct injection and variable valve timing to the drive motors since 2006 and no doubt responsiveness turbo Buick Regal GS and acceleration of a 3.5-liter V6 engine, while providing fuel economy 2.0 L four, "said Mike Anderson, chief engineer of the overall program manager Ecotec.

The engine is mated to the standard six-speed manual gearbox. A six-speed automatic is available in the future.

The Buick Regal GS rides on a wheelbase of 107.8 inches relatively long (2.738 mm), which offers elegant and well balanced vehicle dynamics. It also has an independent suspension at all four wheels, a strut unique performance of high density (HiPerStrut) the front suspension design. The system helps reduce the strain HiPerStrut and maintain a negative camber when cornering, the driver experiences reduced torque management, greater traction and turning ability, with crisp handling, management and accurate feedback.

The link independent rear suspension to four is designed to minimize adverse camber and toe during fast maneuvers, improve vehicle stability. Both front and rear shocks are actively integrating computer Amortization Control (CDC), the change in damping properties to maintain optimal ride control vehicle on the road and different profiles. More aggressive, performance-based damping properties can also be selected by the driver using the driver control system interactive.

Power comes from the large diameter brake system Four-wheel disc brakes with Brembo front brake calipers. Standard anti-lock brakes with four-channel system is tuned to reduce braking distances on varying road surfaces and conditions. Electronic parking brake is activated through the center console mounted controls. Buick Regal GS also includes the standard StabiliTrak stability control with integrated, full-function traction control.

Interactive Drive Control System

The Buick Regal GS is equipped with lever system (ACIS interactive) chassis technology (also available in other models with 2.0-liter turbocharged Regal). It offers the stability of the vehicle and drive safer. The driver selects one of three modes - standard, sport and GS - the change in suspension settings, and sensitivity to address the system of variable-effort steering.

A control module so as to continuously monitor the sophisticated style of driving with speed, speed, lateral and longitudinal acceleration, steering wheel, accelerator and the vehicle. We define the dynamic state of the vehicle, including acceleration, braking and cornering, to optimize the reactions of the chassis. In addition, it performs all driver SIAC selections. All four dampers are electronically controlled and continuously adapt within a few milliseconds to traffic conditions, vehicle movements and driving style.

Select the mode optimizes the GS car for driving dynamics, suspension and tight steering response. "Standard" or the default is the setting for use in all directions. Sport mode gives a level of performance between the standard modes and GS.

Buick GL8 (2011)[Reviews]

The all-new 2011 Buick GL8 Shanghai GM is now available. The luxury SUV based on the legacy of the original Buick GL8, the first family of China executive coaching. Since the inception of the model in 1999, more than 330,000 were sold throughout China.

The new model, which will be available in January 2011, seven and 27 technological innovations and improvements in design, space and security, technology, power, functionality and quality. The result is an unprecedented experience in the luxury of an MPV, it is clear the Buick.

"The new GL8 was developed by Shanghai GM in collaboration with the Pan Asia Technical Automotive Center (PATAC) in Shanghai with the specific needs of our customers in mind," said Terry Johnsson, vice president of Shanghai GM vehicle sales, service and marketing. "It offers everything consumers have come to expect from Buick, a dynamic, smooth ride, quiet and comfort. Like its predecessor, the new Buick GL8 is the right product at the right time."

The new Buick GL8 has an elegant exterior design is underlined by Buick double sweep spear feature is in the front to back. Decorative metal strips add a sense of sleek, modern elegance. Its classic waterfall grille and portholes chrome greater emphasis on new Buick GL8 is inheritance.

With a length of 5256 mm, a width of 1878, with a height of 1800 mm and a wheelbase of 3088 mm, the new Buick GL8 provides a wide tower for all occupants. The interior trim fuses Eastern and Western aesthetics. The lighting mood of blue ice and a 360-degree wraparound design inspired by luxury yachts.

Remember the additional services are ergonomic two-tone genuine leather trim, two-piece panoramic sunroof, an electronic anti-pinch with a sliding door and touch tailgate lift motor, 10-speaker Bose 5.1-channel audio system with 7 inch touch screen in front and 10.2-inch WVGA screen HD rear, and the vehicle's OnStar safety and communication services.

Improved independent front suspension and rear sub-frames to ensure a smooth and steady. Setting up the signature quiet Buick reduce, block and absorb noise inside, and without distractions, which is comparable to the luxury sedan.

The new Buick GL8 comes with a choice of a 3.0-liter V-6 engine SIDI direct injection 2.4 liters intelligent or Ecotec segment leader in fuel efficiency. GM advanced 6-speed automatic transmission is standard, offering unprecedented power in the segment of the luxury minivan.

In the field of security, a new Buick GL8 is a very strong structure. Bosch 8.1 ESP system for the production of premium processing. It is complemented by large tires and disc brakes, six airbags available on selected models. For better visibility, the new Buick GL8 includes multi-dimensional Bi-Xenon HID blue ray crystal headlights and taillights as chrome LED.

New Buick GL8 luxury SUV with a retail price of between RMB 388,000 and RMB 288 000. Shanghai GM will also present an updated model of the current 2011 Buick GL8 in December 2010, aims at the top MPV segment. It includes a 2.4-liter Ecotec engine and a 6-speed automatic. This "strategy of two vehicles," Shanghai GM to examine in more detail MPV market, the luxury segment of secondary education.

Envision Buick Concept [Reviews]

View the Buick concept car, which represents a convergence of ideas and technology for the future of Buick on the market, made its debut in the world today. He appeared on the GM stand at Auto Shanghai 2011 Shanghai.

Imagine a mixture Buick overall aesthetic of Chinese design for the SUV segment. There are Buick core "Fluid Mechanics quiet and comfort," contains GMO PHEV leaders of the hybrid system. In the future, and people-oriented technology and equipment has been designed to change people's perception of SUVs.

"The Envision was developed jointly by GM and Shanghai Automotive Pan Asia Technical Center (PATAC)," said Shi Hong, director of marketing at Shanghai GM Buick. "We introduce the product development direction for the future of Buick SUV market."

According to Ed Welburn, vice president of GM Global Design, The Envision "inherited DNA Buick and design the roof of global design language to new heights Buick. He made an important statement for Buick style and technology, and will affect future patterns of fire. "

Design: The essence of Buick, futuristic language
The speed and strength, lightness and strength and grace of contrast and foresight to the other, but retain a sense of harmony in the Buick Envision. The design follows in the tradition of great elegance Buick, mix it with dynamic lines, sharp angles and curved shapes. Its coupe-like body dynamics and function rooms offer a touch of Buick SUV to reach the Chinese market.

Imagine Buick has a two-story traditional Buick grille cascade, which regulates the air intake to meet the demand for electricity and to achieve optimized aerodynamic performance. Front-end style also includes the Buick tri-colored shield, Insignia, to strengthen the Buick Imagine a powerful and sophisticated sense of style. Headlights and fog lights have been inspired by traditional Chinese motifs. Porcelain LED lamps in the house during the day that the five "pillars of the Chinese-like" LED bulbs for the restrained elegance in bright environments.

Sharp lines from above the headlights, spreads and immersion in the vehicle itself. They reappear on the back that goes deep through the rear lights and demonstration of the double sweep spear traditional Buick. Wheel of the boxes look mighty 22-inch tires offer a strong contrast. The roof of one piece is shaped like a bridge parent. It allows continuous fluid side lines to form a graceful curve of the windows before they are integrated into the rear end. Buick Mirror and trim the side windows are aligned in front of the A-pillar and C pillar, which is the perfect finishing touch to the side view of the vehicle. Buick Envision a scissors-style doors with sensors that adds a feeling of luxury, while the input and output more comfortable.

Buick Envision laid back traditional squat SUV. Several ridges forming layers as a modern sculpture. Thin, strong porcelain, like the tail lights are integrated with LED light. The design is used on the rear fog lights and exhaust as well. The color of the ice edge silver body reflects the strong, athletic form of Envision.

Imagine the Buick, with a 22-inch aluminum wheels doubled layers. Silicon sport tires with asymmetrical tread pattern of a one-way. This reduces the cost of resistance, noise and energy while ensuring an SUV is expected.

Anticipating the Buick has an interior-oriented people, comfortable and high tech. Buick signature 360 ​​degree around the integrated design and center console asymmetrically only bring out the best in the other. The forward cabin has the appearance of a floating sculpture. It strikes a perfect balance of physical comfort and aesthetics. Spiral Meters offer exciting futuristic feel.

The color of the door of the car is inspired by the "yin and yang" concept. Together with two-tone high quality white sand and blue galaxies in high-class Italian leather and maple and metallic materials with velvety texture, it provides a visual of peace and elegance. The armrest is split from front to rear, with a storage function and form concealed air conditioning vents. The flat floor feels like the deck of a yacht and contributes to the roominess and comfort of indoors.

In addition to Buick Classic ICE-blue lighting, interior also features an optional orange "casual" and red light "sport" light and gives a soft radiance to match the mood of the environment.

Effect: Breakthrough plug-in hybrid system with intelligent AWD

Imagine that the Buick has a place in the GM hybrid system PHEVs, which offers unprecedented high-power performance and milestones for the future of hybrid technology. The 2.0-liter engine with direct injection engine with an extra SIDI intelligent Imagine a pair of electric generators twice Automatic / manual eight-speed transmission. Powerful lithium battery and a solar roof-optical devices will act as an alternative energy source independent of the engine.

Hybrid system, which in fact make use of standard fuel and electricity, can produce more energy than pure electric cars or gasoline-powered vehicles. When the vehicle is started, parked and running at low speed, the Buick Imagine operates exclusively electric. When the vehicle needs more power or the battery is low, the engine automatically kicks to provide smart battery charging. When you need more power, like the sudden acceleration and driving uphill, the engine runs the power grid, a generator to provide extra power. The vehicle may be connected to normal power outlet to recharge the battery. Insert the battery produces electricity in the sunroof.

Envision Buick chassis compact and lightweight carbon fiber, magnesium and aluminum. Mounted on an electromagnetic suspension MRC function with energy recycling, it offers one of the fastest of the magnetic field of the control systems of the bearing in the world. Depreciation is actively regulated in relation to road conditions to maximize handling. With Envision Buick intelligent all-wheel drive, torque on each wheel to be adjusted at any time in all weather driving pleasure.

Brabus Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class (2012) [Reviews]

 Other Mercedes-Benz CLS-generation has arrived, and a world premiere BRABUS presents an exclusive tuning program for the new four-door coupe at the Motor Show in Geneva 2011.

Sporty, stylish design combined with the aerodynamic efficiency is the trademark of Brabus. For new components of the body CLS have been developed in a wind tunnel. They are manufactured in OEM quality from flexible PUR-R-Rim.

Brabus front bumper spoiler installed on the production and significantly reduces lift on the front axle at high speeds. The front can be further upgraded BRABUS front spoiler caps. They have an air intake extraordinary style and LED daytime running lights, available in black or chrome surrounds.

The CLS receives a dynamic aspect of both wings of the Brabus sport. In addition to the gills on each side also has a horizontal support Brabus illuminated letters.

Skirts Brabus threshold to give a four-door even smaller, more elegant place. Interesting and useful feature that was added is a set of integrated entrance lights are activated via the keyless remote control or door handles.

LED for safe access to the tube in the dark, are integrated into the Brabus rear bumper. Special courts in the rear apron again perfect backdrop for the four tailpipes of the BRABUS sport exhaust system. The appearance in the back complete with a center-mounted reflector.

The Brabus rear spoiler creates a perfect aerodynamic balance and highlights the sporty character of Brabus creative combination.

Another important contribution to the appearance for the exclusive Brabus CLS Brabus monoblock new wheels in sizes ranging from 10 .5 to 8.5Jx17 JX20. OEM quality alloys available in one piece and three piece wheels six different models.

Features to the most exclusive Brabus Monoblock VI, E or S wheels in size 9Jx20 front and back 10.5Jx20 size. The latest addition to the family of wheels Brabus Monoblock S Brabus wheels is Originally presented as a forged wheel is now also available as cast wheels of 20 inches, which also celebrates its world debut at the Geneva Motor Show, the 2011 th On the new CLS, the wheel can be mounted in sizes 8.5 and JX20 9.5Jx20, painted gray "Titanium" liquid shadows. The largest tire supplied by Brabus technology partners Pirelli and Yokohama for these wheels are 255/30 ZR 20 in size 305/25 ZR 20 front and in size to the rear axle.

Specially calibrated for a sporty low-rings are the BRABUS suspension solutions developed in collaboration with technology partner BILSTEIN. Last Brabus sport springs varies less ground clearance of about 30 millimeters (1.2 inches). Sporting objectives can be met with a suspension Brabus, combining the race sag height, damper settings, but a more solid and comfortable. CLS-Class models equipped with factory with a semi-active air suspension AIRMATIC can be calculated from about 35 millimeters (1.4 inches) BRABUS suspension modules with.

BRABUS offers the world's most extensive range of performance tuning for Mercedes-Benz. CLS 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY model is equipped with an ECO Brabus D4 PowerXtra performance kit provides an additional 31 hp (31 bhp) / 22.8 kW and a maximum torque of 560 Nm (413 Nm).

For Brabus CLS 350 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY ECO PowerXtra offers tuning kits D6s. Plug-and-play with an additional control device can be installed by an authorized Mercedes-Benz Brabus or the know-how partner for less than 45 minutes. This high-tech performance optimization also allows the driver to influence the return of power through a change in the selected program PLUS 7G-Tronic automatic.

In the "eco", only the maximum torque of 620 Nm is increased 690 Nm (457-509 Nm) between 1600 and 2400 revolutions per minute. Maximum output will remain unchanged. If the "Sport" has been selected manually or automatically, as well as maximum torque and increase power. Maximum power, then jump to 265 hp (261 hp) / 195 kW, 313 hp (309 hp) / 230 kW at 3600 rpm low. Using this model setting tuned turbo diesel road sprints from 0-100 km / h in just 5.9 seconds. Top speed is electronically limited to 250 km / h (155 mph).

All BRABUS engines are used only ARAL high-performance lubricants.

All stainless steel Brabus quad sport exhaust is available for all engine variants of the CLS. Precision calibrated to optimize the performance of the exhaust system and exhaust produce a harsh sound.

Unique interior design that meets all customer requirements is particularly Brabus specialty. Options for the Mercedes CLS new range of interesting accessories for interior tailored especially soft and breathable BRABUS Mastik but strong leather and Alcantara.

Brabus wheel ergonomic sports steering is available in a variety of leather / wood design. He commented perfect driving position and ensures relaxed driving long distance.

Scuff plates with illuminated Brabus logo or mark speedometer to 340 kmh (213 mph) to add special highlights such as a house Brabus sports accessories: These include components such as aluminum pedal pads, lock shaft and the gear high quality and clear coated carbon fiber dash inserts and center console. Brabus also offers the wood in any desired color and grain.

The four-door coupe Brabus Mercedes-Benz CLS can also be equipped with a customized package Brabus multimedia.

Porsche 911 GT3 R Hybrid to make Monterey Le Mans Series debut

Porsche’s 911 GT3 R Hybrid will make a return to North American racing as Porsche Motorsport announced today the entry of the 911 GT3 R Hybrid Version 2.0 in the ModSpace American Le Mans Series Monterey presented by Patrón. The six-hour race on September 17 at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca is the eighth round of the 2011 American Le Mans Series presented by Tequila Patrón.

“The Porsche 911 GT3 R Hybrid represents one of the best examples ever of technology transfer between race track and showroom,” said Scott Atherton, President and CEO of the American Le Mans Series presented by Tequila Patrón. “It brought an entirely new level of relevance to our platform during its North American debut at Petit Le Mans last year; certainly it stands to do the same during its maiden appearance on the West Coast. Porsche is using its involvement in the ALMS to demonstrate that high performance and fuel efficiency are not mutually exclusive achievements. The benefits of this revolutionary development program will no doubt lead to numerous advancements that will be applied to future Porsche road cars. We are proud that our position as the Global Leader of Green Racing enables such technologies to be put to the ultimate endurance test and actively developed in front of our fans.”

Two Porsche works pilots Romain Dumas (France) and Richard Lietz (Austria) will share the cockpit of the orange and white racer from Weissach. Dumas already has driven the world’s most innovative GT vehicle last year at Road Atlanta’s Petit Le Mans. Lietz piloted the 911 Hybrid at the 24-hour races on the Nuerburgring in 2010 and 2011 as well as at various other long-distance races.

“I’m so looking forward to demonstrating the capabilities of this very special car at race speed to the spectators in California,” said Dumas, a two-time ALMS champion in LMP2 for Porsche. “Many Porsche fans live on the west coast of America, and some of them have already discovered the advantages of the hybrid system at the wheel of a Porsche Cayenne S Hybrid. I’m very excited because Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca is one of the most challenging race tracks on earth. Its layout with a series of up and downhill passages should actually suit our 911 GT3 R Hybrid.”

The outing of Porsche’s hybrid racer at the 24 Hours of Nuerburgring last month was more than heartening. The innovative race car achieved the same quick lap times as its top rivals yet used considerably less fuel. Just two broken transmission flanges and a collision thwarted a potential podium spot.

The Porsche 911 GT3 R Hybrid 2.0 - with two 75-kilowatt electric motors on the front axle supplementing the 465 hp four-liter, six-cylinder power unit at the rear - particularly embodies the philosophy of “Porsche Intelligent Performance”: The electric energy is generated during braking and stored in an electric flywheel. During acceleration, this energy is automatically delivered to the front wheels supporting the combustion engine. This leads to a reduction in fuel consumption and increases the cruising range on the circuit.

Moreover, drivers can manually use the stored energy with a boost-paddle on the steering wheel for overtaking. The 911 GT3 R Hybrid has undergone further development since 2010; compared to its predecessor, its weight was reduced from 1,350 kilograms (2,970 pounds) to 1,300 kilograms (2,860 pounds).

This weekend, the American Le Mans Series presented by Tequila Patrón is at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course for the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Challenge. The fifth round of the 2011 ALMS championship is set for 3:30 p.m. ET on Saturday, August 6 with ESPN2 airing the race starting at 10 p.m. ET on Sunday, August 7. Live video coverage on race day will be available at 3:15 p.m. ET on ESPN3.com in the US, and americanlemans.com for international viewers. Canadian fans may also watch live coverage on Rogers Sportsnet. Worldwide radio coverage will be available on American Le Mans Radio at americanlemans.com.

Toyota and Tesla to Build RAV4 EV in Ontario Canada

Toyota and Tesla Motors confirmed today that their jointly-developed RAV4 electric vehicle will be built at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada in Woodstock, Ontario beginning in 2012.

“The Tesla-Toyota joint development team has agreed that building the vehicle at the Woodstock plant on the same line as the gasoline-powered RAV4, will streamline and simplify the production process and guarantee the highest level of quality control,” said Ray Tanguay, TMMC Chairman, who hosted Canadian officials at the plant today and thanked them for their support. “This is a great example of Toyota’s determination to collaborate with companies with leading edge technology.”

As previously announced, Toyota will pay Tesla approximately $100 million to supply the electric powertrain, which includes the battery, motor, gear box and power electronics for the RAV4 EV. Tesla will build the electric powertrains at its production facility in Palo Alto, California and then ship them to TMMC for final assembly into the vehicle.

The RAV4 EV will be sold at U.S. Toyota dealers through Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. (TMS). Details including pricing, volume and regional distribution will be determined and announced at a later time.

In July of last year, Tesla and Toyota Engineering and Manufacturing, America (TEMA) collaborated to convert 32 conventional gas-engine RAV4 compact SUVs into fully functional RAV4 EV prototypes.