Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Renault Alpine A110-50 concept does its papa proud]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/25/renault-alpine-a110-50-concept-does-its-papa-proud/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/25/renault-alpine-a110-50-concept-does-its-papa-proud/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/25/renault-alpine-a110-50-concept-does-its-papa-proud/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,



Renault has officially released details on its Alpine A110-50 Concept. Designed to pay homage to the original Alpine A110, the machine wears a body crafted from carbon fiber and dipped in a shade of the same iconic Alpine Blue we all know and love. Up front, designers worked in a set of half-ring yellow LED lights reminiscent of the hood-mounted fog lights found on the original. That's pretty much where the similarities end, however. Based loosely on the crushingly-sexy Renault Dezir Concept, the new machine boasts proud fender arches, a wild split-wing rear spoiler and scissor doors.

As we'd heard before, the A110-50 Concept rolls on the same chassis as the Megane Trophy, complete with adjustable Sachs dampers, 21-inch wheels and the notable absences of on-board nannies like ABS or traction control. Hefty 14-inch front brake discs are pressed by six-piston calipers, while the 13-inch discs out back make due with four-piston units.

Renault placed a 3.5-liter V6 mid-ship with a full 400 horsepower on hand. A roof mounted-intake funnels air from outside the engine bay into the machine's carbon-fiber intake. Meanwhile, a dual-clutch six-speed gearbox allows the driver the choice of disengaging the transmission via a floor-mounted clutch pedal or shifting via steering-wheel mounted paddles.

Scroll down to check out the full press release as well as a couple videos.

Continue reading Renault Alpine A110-50 concept does its papa proud

Renault Alpine A110-50 concept does its papa proud originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 25 May 2012 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a110-50alpinealpine a110-50alpine a110-50 conceptcarbon fiberconceptconcept carledmegane trophymonaco grand prixrenault alpine a110-50renault alpine a110-50 conceptrenault dezirrenault dezir conceptFri, 25 May 2012 10:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20245135/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/25/renault-alpine-a110-50-concept-does-its-papa-proud/20245135/article-detail.xml 20245135 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/remault-alpine-s110-50-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/remault-alpine-s110-50-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Ford, Dow Chemical partner on carbon fiber composites, hope to shed up to 750 pounds]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/13/ford-dow-chemical-partner-on-carbon-fiber-composites-hope-to-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/13/ford-dow-chemical-partner-on-carbon-fiber-composites-hope-to-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/13/ford-dow-chemical-partner-on-carbon-fiber-composites-hope-to-s/#commentsFiled under: ,

Vaughn Gittin Jr.'s carbon fiber RTR-C Mustang from SEMA 2009

Ford is getting religion when it comes to light-weighting its vehicles. The company has entered into a new partnership with Dow Chemical to develop carbon fiber that can be manufactured at affordable prices for high-volume applications. That, of course, is the holy grail of weight reduction, which is why other manufacturers like General Motors are also partnering with suppliers to try and achieve the same ends.

Now before you get too excited about the carbon-fiber Mustang in the photos, understand that it was just a limited-production car shown at SEMA in 2009, and it carried a price tag of $135,000. That's the problem with carbon fiber parts - they are expensive because they are much more difficult to manufacture in volume than steel.

But if Ford and other carmakers are going to achieve the sorts of fuel economy improvements required by new regulations, they're going to have to either scale carbon fiber or dramatically shrink the size of most vehicles. Ford says it's targeting a 750-pound weight reduction per vehicle by the end of the decade.

Scroll down to read the full press release.

Continue reading Ford, Dow Chemical partner on carbon fiber composites, hope to shed up to 750 pounds

Ford, Dow Chemical partner on carbon fiber composites, hope to shed up to 750 pounds originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 13 Apr 2012 07:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carbon fiberdowdow chemicalfordlight weightlightweightFri, 13 Apr 2012 07:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20214654/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/13/ford-dow-chemical-partner-on-carbon-fiber-composites-hope-to-s/20214654/article-detail.xml 20214654 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/carbor-fiber-mustang-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/carbor-fiber-mustang-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Pagani Huayra Carbon Edition is all things right in the world]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/07/pagani-huayra-carbon-edition-geneva-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/07/pagani-huayra-carbon-edition-geneva-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/07/pagani-huayra-carbon-edition-geneva-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Pagani Huayra with carbon fiber finish

When American automakers release Carbon editions of their sports cars, buyers are treated to a few carbon fiber veneers, some fancy wheels and a few badges. When Pagani builds a Huayra Carbon Edition, the Italian manufacturer simply constructs every last piece of body work out of the composite and slathers everything in clear coat.

Pagani unveiled its latest sculpture at the Geneva Motor Show this week, and the vehicle is very possibly the definition of sinister sexy. Buyers can look forward to enjoying the same lethal drivetrain found in the "base" Huayra, which means there's a 700-horsepower AMG-sourced 6.0-liter V12 behind the seats.

While the standard Huayra boasts a carbon-titanium monocoque, the wild carbon fiber body work on the Carbon Edition is something new entirely. We dig it in every way possible.

Pagani Huayra Carbon Edition is all things right in the world originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 07 Mar 2012 12:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carboncarbon editioncarbon fibercarbon titaniumgenevageneva 2012geneva motor showhuayrahuayra carbon editionpaganipagani huayra carbon editionWed, 07 Mar 2012 12:42:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20187689/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/07/pagani-huayra-carbon-edition-geneva-2012/20187689/article-detail.xml 20187689 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/pagani-hyayra-carbon-fiber-geneva_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/pagani-hyayra-carbon-fiber-geneva.jpg <![CDATA[2012 GTA Spano steals the show]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/06/2012-gta-spano-steals-the-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/06/2012-gta-spano-steals-the-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/06/2012-gta-spano-steals-the-show/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2012 GTA Spano

The Spanish automaker GTA has returned to the Geneva Motor Show, this time with a production version of the company's Spano supercar. The coupe boasts a laundry list of exotic materials on hand, including a unibody shell constructed of titanium, kevlar and carbon fiber. All told, the package tips the scales at a scant 2,970 pounds.

A total of 840 horsepower comes courtesy of an 8.3-liter V10, all of which is dumped on the rear tires through a seven-speed transmission. According to GTA, the Spano can hit 62 mph from a dead standstill in just 2.9 seconds. If you're keeping track, that's faster than the just-unveiled Ferrari F12 Berlinetta.

As impressive as the go specs are, the vehicle has some stout stop-ware to match. AP supplied a set of front discs that are nearly 15 inches in diameter squeezed by mighty six-piston calipers. Too cool.

Of course, you'll pay for the privilege of being faster than the new Prancing Horse. No list price has been announced just yet, but with the stack of wild materials and heady horsepower on hand, you can bet your last penny this thing won't come cheap. GTA expects to deliver the first models by late 2012.

2012 GTA Spano steals the show originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 06 Mar 2012 20:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 gta spanocarbon fibergenevageneva 2012geneva motor showgtagta spanokevlarspanotitaniumTue, 06 Mar 2012 20:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20186981/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/06/2012-gta-spano-steals-the-show/20186981/article-detail.xml 20186981 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/2012-gta-spano-geneva_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/2012-gta-spano-geneva.jpg <![CDATA[Next gen. BMW 7 Series to use carbon fiber]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/29/next-gen-bmw-7-series-to-use-carbon-fiber/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/29/next-gen-bmw-7-series-to-use-carbon-fiber/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/29/next-gen-bmw-7-series-to-use-carbon-fiber/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



The next BMW 7 Series, said to be arriving in 2015, will reportedly use more CFRP (carbon fiber reinforced plastic) in its build. In two interviews R&D head Dr. Klaus Draeger said the big sedan will introduce the expanded use of CFRP components into the mainstream BMW line.

Draeger made sure to say that he believes in the right material mix, making structural items like the engine cradle and crash structures in high-strength steel and using aluminum for pieces like the doors, front fenders and roof. It is thought that carbon fiber will supplant some aluminum parts like the hood, roof and trunk.

Next gen. BMW 7 Series to use carbon fiber originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 29 Feb 2012 08:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>7 seriesbmw 7 seriescarbon fibercfrpWed, 29 Feb 2012 08:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20181407/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/29/next-gen-bmw-7-series-to-use-carbon-fiber/20181407/article-detail.xml 20181407 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/bmw7cfrp_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/bmw7cfrp.jpg <![CDATA[GM gets serious about widespread use of carbon fiber]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/09/gm-gets-serious-about-widespread-use-of-carbon-fiber/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/09/gm-gets-serious-about-widespread-use-of-carbon-fiber/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/09/gm-gets-serious-about-widespread-use-of-carbon-fiber/#commentsFiled under: ,

General Motors Carbon Fiber

General Motors has announced a partnership with a leading carbon fiber producer in an effort to research the possibility of widespread use of the material in its vehicles. Teijin Limited has pioneered a new manufacturing process for carbon fiber reinforced thermoplastic that allows for cycle times of under one minute. Typically, creating carbon fiber parts from molds requires the use of slow-setting resin that simply takes too long to be practical for use on a large scale. As part of the tie-up with GM, Teijin will set up a new technical center in the northern United States to support development.

Carbon fiber reinforced thermoplastics have the benefit of being up to 10 times stronger than conventional steel while offering one quarter of the weight. Of course, carbon fiber can also come with a suitably steep price tag, though Teijin's techniques will likely help curb costs significantly. As manufacturers continue to push for ever more efficient vehicles, ditching the weight will become increasingly important. Hit the jump for the full press release.

Continue reading GM gets serious about widespread use of carbon fiber

GM gets serious about widespread use of carbon fiber originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 09 Dec 2011 13:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carbon fibergeneral motorsgmteijin limitedFri, 09 Dec 2011 13:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20124467/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/09/gm-gets-serious-about-widespread-use-of-carbon-fiber/20124467/article-detail.xml 20124467 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/gm-carbon-fiber-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/gm-carbon-fiber-628.jpg <![CDATA[DP Motorsport drapes 1973 Porsche 911 in carbon fiber gorgeousness]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/18/dp-motorsport-drapes-1973-porsche-911-in-carbon-fiber-gorgeousne/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/18/dp-motorsport-drapes-1973-porsche-911-in-carbon-fiber-gorgeousne/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/18/dp-motorsport-drapes-1973-porsche-911-in-carbon-fiber-gorgeousne/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

1973 Porsche 911 by DP Motorsport

Though the modern Porsche 911 has retained much of the same style as the original, there's still something about a classic Carrera that attracts a certain breed of enthusiast. That's what led to the creation of the Singer 911, and what has apparently motivated a German tuning outfit called DP Motorsport to retrofit a 1973 model to lightweight specification.

The modifications start with a complete carbon fiber rebody. The front and rear bumpers, hood, fenders, doors and whale tail have all been replaced with the lightweight weave, while the windows and lamp covers have all been ditched in favor of lighter-weight replacements. The result is a 870-kilogram (1,918-pound) curb weight instead of 1,080 to 1,335 kg (2,380-2,943 lbs) stock. But that's only half of the less weight, more power ratio equation.

DP Motorsport has also fitted a 3.6-liter flat-six with 310 horsepower, enhanced by a new carburetor and filters, fitted to a G-50 gearbox and limited-slip differential. It rides on 16-inch Fuchs wheels on a coilover suspension with adjustable stabilizers, and they've fitted the brakes from a 964. The interior has likewise been lightened, fitted with bucket seats and swathed in grippy black Alcantara.

In short, the DP 911 is like the air-cooled original, only more so. Check it out in the high-res image gallery and the press release after the jump.

Continue reading DP Motorsport drapes 1973 Porsche 911 in carbon fiber gorgeousness

DP Motorsport drapes 1973 Porsche 911 in carbon fiber gorgeousness originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 18 Nov 2011 16:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1973 porsche 911911carbon fiberdpdp motorsportporscheporsche 911whale tailFri, 18 Nov 2011 16:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20106902/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/18/dp-motorsport-drapes-1973-porsche-911-in-carbon-fiber-gorgeousne/20106902/article-detail.xml 20106902 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/web911-dp-motorsport1_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/web911-dp-motorsport1.jpg <![CDATA[Mercedes-Benz working on carbon fiber E-Class?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/30/benz-working-on-carbon-fiber-e-class/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/30/benz-working-on-carbon-fiber-e-class/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/30/benz-working-on-carbon-fiber-e-class/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe

A few years ago if you wanted a Mercedes-Benz Coupe your only choices were the dandyish CLK two-door or spending the GDP of a Polynesian island on an SL or CL. The options have grown - and grown more manly - lately, and according to a story in Auto Bild there's another one coming: the E-Class Superlight.

With a rumored arrival of 2015, this rethink of the E will weigh just 2,860 pounds, meaning it would shed 770 pounds compared to the current E Coupe. How? By being "made of super lightweight carbon fiber." Powerplants for the model are suggested to be a six-cylinder gas with a hybrid motor, or a fuel-cell hybrid.

If true, this is presented as Mercedes' response to BMW and Audi moves into plastics and light weight. And this wouldn't be the only challenger from Benz, with a lightweight B and an SCS also said to be in the works.

Mercedes-Benz working on carbon fiber E-Class? originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 30 Oct 2011 18:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carbon fibere-classe-class superlightmercedes e-classmercedes e-class superlightmercedes-benz e superlightSun, 30 Oct 2011 18:02:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20093460/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/30/benz-working-on-carbon-fiber-e-class/20093460/article-detail.xml 20093460 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/e-classsuperlight_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/e-classsuperlight.jpg <![CDATA[Could bamboo resin be a good alternative to carbon fiber for cars?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/06/could-bamboo-resin-be-a-good-alternative-to-carbon-fiber-for-car/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/06/could-bamboo-resin-be-a-good-alternative-to-carbon-fiber-for-car/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/06/could-bamboo-resin-be-a-good-alternative-to-carbon-fiber-for-car/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2002 Ford MA Concept

The quest for ever-better lightweight manufacturing materials has led one electric vehicle builder to consider using woven bamboo fiber and vegetable resin in the place of costly carbon fiber or heavy fiberglass. The material is already being put to use in the surfboard industry, and Greg Abbott, a guy who spends his days converting internal-combustion vehicles to EVs, says that in the future, EV kits may have bodies that use bamboo for their body structure. Abbott says the material is strong enough to fall somewhere between fiberglass and carbon fiber on the strength-to-width ratio scale.

Bamboo has a number of fairly obvious appealing traits as a manufacturing material. The crop is quick-growing, stout and easily replenished, which makes it inexpensive as well. The plant is used in everything from flooring to textiles, paper and water processing, so the thought of turning to bamboo for car bodies isn't that far fetched.

Could bamboo resin be a good alternative to carbon fiber for cars? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 06 Oct 2011 08:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bamboobamboo fibercarbon fiberelectric vehicleevfiberglassgreg abbottresinvegetable resinThu, 06 Oct 2011 08:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20072663/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/06/could-bamboo-resin-be-a-good-alternative-to-carbon-fiber-for-car/20072663/article-detail.xml 20072663 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/2002fordmaconcept1_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/2002fordmaconcept1.jpg <![CDATA[Gordon Murray releases more details about electric Teewave AR1]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/26/gordon-murray-releases-more-details-about-electric-teewave-ar1/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/26/gordon-murray-releases-more-details-about-electric-teewave-ar1/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/26/gordon-murray-releases-more-details-about-electric-teewave-ar1/#commentsFiled under: ,

Teewave AR1

Gordon Murray Designs' latest creation, the Teewave AR1, not only showcases the firm's engineering capabilities, but also illustrates the point where integrity, lightweighting and electric drive meet.

On the day Project T.32 (the Teewave AR1's codename) was primed for its Tokyo debut, the automotive world came to know a firm by the name of Toray Industries - one of the world's leading manufacturers of carbon fiber. Looking around the AR1 reveals plenty of exposed carbon fiber, a visual link with the vehicle's carbon fiber monocoque structure.

Everything - most everything, anyway - was done in-house, including crash testing. The AR1 was digitally designed, with no full-sized clays, says Frank Coppuck, the T.32's engineering director.

A swiped Mitsubishi i-MiEV powertrain sits between the AR1's rear axle and passenger compartment. And although the AR1 only packs a featherweight 63 horsepower and 133 pound-feet torque, its low 1,852-pound curb weight, track-honed double wishbone suspension, ultra quick steering and powerful brakes means it should be an engaging package.

"We could squeeze a lot more out of the engine," says Coppuck, but as it is, the T.32 tops out at 100 miles per hour, has a listed range of 100 miles and recharges in around eight hours. We like what we hear, and think that the Teewave AR1 - screwy name aside - is one spectacular electric machine.

Continue reading Gordon Murray releases more details about electric Teewave AR1

Gordon Murray releases more details about electric Teewave AR1 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 26 Sep 2011 08:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carbon fiberelectric sportscarelectric vehiclegordon murraygordon murray designt-wavet-wave ar1t.32teewavetoraytoray industriesMon, 26 Sep 2011 08:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20059195/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/26/gordon-murray-releases-more-details-about-electric-teewave-ar1/20059195/article-detail.xml 20059195 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/t3_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/t3.jpg <![CDATA[Lamborghini Aventador 1:8 scale model costs 12 times the real thing [w/exclusive photos]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/17/lamborghini-aventador-1-8-scale-model-costs-12-times-the-real-th/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/17/lamborghini-aventador-1-8-scale-model-costs-12-times-the-real-th/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/17/lamborghini-aventador-1-8-scale-model-costs-12-times-the-real-th/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Lamborghini Aventador scale model by Robert Guelpen

When it comes to objects of automotive lust, few tip the scales further than the Lamborghini Aventador. Naturally, most mere mortals (like us) can't come up with nearly enough expendable income to ever fulfill the dream of owning an actual, drivable toy like that.

If we can't afford the real thing, at least we can get ourselves a smaller scale model, right? Well, maybe... unless the 1:8 scale Aventador you've got your eye on comes with seats, headlights and steering wheel made from diamonds, wheels fashioned from gold and platinum and a perfectly scaled copy of the body crafted from carbon fiber.

Just how much would such a fancy bauble cost? We hope you're sitting down: at least $4.7 million. Yes, in dollars. Auction house Sotheby's plans to sell the wee Lambo to the highest bidder in December with the lofty starting price just quoted, but if you just can't wait to get your hands on it, you can buy it from Robert Gülpen, the modeler, for a cool $6 mil.

Or, you could buy a dozen actual Aventadors for that price, which may be far more satisfying. Check out our exclusive photos of the model taken by photographer David Kaiser, and follow the jump for a video of the model on display behind bulletproof glass at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show.

Continue reading Lamborghini Aventador 1:8 scale model costs 12 times the real thing [w/exclusive photos]

Lamborghini Aventador 1:8 scale model costs 12 times the real thing [w/exclusive photos] originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 17 Sep 2011 17:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aventadorcarbon fiberlamborghinilamborghini aventador modelmodel carrobert gulpenworlds most expensive modelSat, 17 Sep 2011 17:03:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20044194/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/17/lamborghini-aventador-1-8-scale-model-costs-12-times-the-real-th/20044194/article-detail.xml 20044194 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/aventadorscalemodeliaa05small_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/aventadorscalemodeliaa05small.jpg <![CDATA[Gordon Murray and Toray unveil electric T-Wave AR1 concept]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/12/gordon-murray-and-toray-unveil-electric-t-wave-ar1-concept/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/12/gordon-murray-and-toray-unveil-electric-t-wave-ar1-concept/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/12/gordon-murray-and-toray-unveil-electric-t-wave-ar1-concept/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Toray Industries, a multinational corporation headquartered in Japan that specializes in industrial fibers and textiles, has teamed with world-renowned designer Gordon Murray to dream up the T-Wave AR1, a two-seat electric concept that showcases Toray's carbon fiber expertise.

Toray says the T-Wave AR1 can hit speeds of up to 91 miles per hour and has a range of around 115 miles. Although it's nothing more than a concept, Toray claims the T-Wave could be modified for on-road use.

The T-Wave's extensive use of carbon fiber keeps weight to a minimum (1,865 pounds), and its carbon fiber monocoque makes it Superman strong. Toray says the AR1's frame is roughly ten times as rugged as a steel equivalent and that it can absorb 2.5 times more energy during a collision. The T-Wave will get an official debut at the Toray Advanced Materials Symposium at the Tokyo International Forum on September 14.

Gordon Murray and Toray unveil electric T-Wave AR1 concept originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 12 Sep 2011 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carbon fiberelectric conceptgordon murraygordon murray designt-wavet-wave ar1toraytoray t-waveMon, 12 Sep 2011 09:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20039994/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/12/gordon-murray-and-toray-unveil-electric-t-wave-ar1-concept/20039994/article-detail.xml 20039994 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/6a00d8341c4fbe53ef0154354ea476970c-800wi-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/6a00d8341c4fbe53ef0154354ea476970c-800wi-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Lamborghini uses raw carbon fiber cloth to make handbags]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/31/lamborghini-uses-raw-carbon-fiber-cloth-to-make-handbags/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/31/lamborghini-uses-raw-carbon-fiber-cloth-to-make-handbags/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/31/lamborghini-uses-raw-carbon-fiber-cloth-to-make-handbags/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Lamborghini carbon fiber bags

Lamborghini is serious about carbon fiber. More than simply using the material, the Italian sportscar manufacturer has developed new types of it. The question is, what to do with it once it's developed?

Well, they make supercars out of the stuff, for starters. But that's not the end of the story. Lamborghini also has partnerships with such companies as Boeing and Callaway to use its carbon fiber in applications as varied as airplanes and golf clubs. And now Sant'Agata has found another application: handbags.

While plenty of companies are making all sorts of stuff out of finished, hardened and glossy carbon fiber sheets, Lamborghini claims to be the first to use the unfinished weave to produce this line of fashion accessories. The collection includes a soft travel duffel, a messenger bag and an envelope-style satchel. Each is made primarily out of the raw carbon fiber and fitted with hand-stitched leather, galvanized brass hardware and cotton lining, all put together by hand.

The items will be available through Lamborghini dealers worldwide and through its online store, but don't expect to have any cash left over to stash inside the bags: prices range from $1,200 up to $2,100. Take a closer look in the high-res image gallery and follow the jump for the full press release.

Continue reading Lamborghini uses raw carbon fiber cloth to make handbags

Lamborghini uses raw carbon fiber cloth to make handbags originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 31 Aug 2011 07:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bagscarboncarbon fibercarbon-fiberduffelenvelopehandbaglamborghinimessengerpursesatcheltravel bagWed, 31 Aug 2011 07:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20030389/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/08/31/lamborghini-uses-raw-carbon-fiber-cloth-to-make-handbags/20030389/article-detail.xml 20030389 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/webcarbonfiberbags_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/webcarbonfiberbags.jpg <![CDATA[BMW M3 CRT gets first official footage]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/24/bmw-m3-crt-gets-first-official-footage/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/24/bmw-m3-crt-gets-first-official-footage/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/24/bmw-m3-crt-gets-first-official-footage/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

BMW M3 CRT
2012 BMW M3 CRT - Click above to watch video after the jump

BMW has been so kind as to give us all a glimpse at the company's upcoming M3 CRT. The engineers behind the German automaker's M performance arm have taken pains to dip their standard M3 into a vat of delicious carbon fiber, and the result is a lightweight version of the menacing sedan. Designed to show off the manufacturer's new carbon fiber technologies, the M3 CRT wears a CF hood that's as strong as conventional steel but with a quarter of the weight. The same methods were applied to the vehicle's seats.

The old muffler has been scrapped for a titanium unit, and lightweight Y-spoke wheels and brake calipers are part of the recipe as well. In an effort to trim fat wherever possible, the M3 CRT even wears less sound deadening than the standard model. BMW also reworked the vehicle's suspension with a more rigid subframe and adjustable coilovers, which means there's plenty of stick on hand.

That's good given that a 450 horsepower version of the company's naturally-aspirated 4.4-liter V8 sits behind the headlights. The grunt gets channeled to the rear tires via a seven-speed dual-clutch cog box.

We hear the very-limited-edition CRT will cost a mint (on the order of 130,000 Euros including taxes - around $185k U.S.), so don't expect to see any examples at your stateside BMW dealer anytime soon. Even so, you can still hit the jump to check out the walk-around for yourself.

Continue reading BMW M3 CRT gets first official footage

BMW M3 CRT gets first official footage originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 24 Jun 2011 12:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwbmw carbon fiberbmw m3 crtbmw m3 crt videocarbon fibercrtm3m3 crtm3 crt videom3 sedanvideoFri, 24 Jun 2011 12:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19975878/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/06/24/bmw-m3-crt-gets-first-official-footage/19975878/article-detail.xml 19975878 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/m3-crt-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/m3-crt-630.jpg <![CDATA[BMW M3 CRT introduces lightweight carbon fiber production process]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/23/bmw-m3-crt-introduces-lightweight-carbon-fiber-production-proces/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/23/bmw-m3-crt-introduces-lightweight-carbon-fiber-production-proces/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/23/bmw-m3-crt-introduces-lightweight-carbon-fiber-production-proces/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

BMW M3 CRT
BMW M3 CRT - Click above for high-res image gallery

Meet the new BMW M3 CRT. In this case, those letters do not mean cathode ray tube (think old-school computer monitors). According to BMW, CRT is short for Carbon Racing Technologies, and that's the kind of thing we can really get behind. That's especially true when the car being CRT-ized is the M3.

The BMW M3 CRT differs quite a bit from last year's M3 GTS, though both were conceived as lightweight versions of the E90-series car with more power, better brakes and upgraded suspension bits. For instance, unlike the GTS, the CRT comes fully loaded with navigation, a premium stereo system and is based on the four-door sedan with high-tech front and rear seats.

BMW is using the M3 CRT to debut its new carbon fiber production technique, which is used to good effect on both the front seats and a new hood that is as strong as a conventional steel unit with just one quarter the weight. More weight reduction comes from the titanium muffler, 19-inch Y-spoke alloy wheels and less sound deadening material. Even the brake calipers are made from a new lightweight compound.

A fresh set of adjustable coilovers work with a more rigid rear subframe and wide tires (245/35R19 front and 265/35R19 rear) to up the handling quotient. Power comes from a 4.4-liter version of BMW's well-known high-revving V8 engine, producing 450 horsepower (at 8,300 rpm) and 324 pound-feet of torque (at 3,750 rpm). Those ponies are routed to the rear wheels through the automaker's seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox.

Add it all up and you're left with a machine that's capable of terrorizing the race track every weekend while still serving as a perfectly lovely daily driver in between... one that can zip from 0 to 62 miles per hour in what we bet is a conservative 4.4 seconds. Want one? Get in line, as BMW only plans to build 67 units, each painted up in Frozen Polar Silver metallic with Melbourne Red accents and a black and orange interior. And there's no word on any of them making it Stateside, in case you were wondering.

See our high-res image gallery for yourself, and feel free to peruse the complete press release after the break.

Continue reading BMW M3 CRT introduces lightweight carbon fiber production process

BMW M3 CRT introduces lightweight carbon fiber production process originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 23 Jun 2011 17:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 bmw m3 crtbmwbmw carbon fiberbmw m3 crtcarbon fibercrtm3m3 crtThu, 23 Jun 2011 17:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19975145/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/06/23/bmw-m3-crt-introduces-lightweight-carbon-fiber-production-proces/19975145/article-detail.xml 19975145 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/01-bmw-m3-crt630opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/01-bmw-m3-crt630opt.jpg <![CDATA[Plastic Fantastic: Are composite engines the future?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/10/are-composite-engines-the-future/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/10/are-composite-engines-the-future/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/10/are-composite-engines-the-future/#commentsFiled under: , ,

plastic engineFlorida engineer Matti Holtzberg has spent the last 40 years trying to perfect and implement a way of building useable engine blocks from composite plastics. With the advent of carbon fiber and its subsequent permeation of all things high-performance, Holtzberg decided to apply the technology to his composite engine idea.

Armed with a vast base of research and immense skill, Holtzberg retooled his operation to mold carbon composite engine blocks, with an eye toward selling them to racing teams. Holtzberg's blocks are based on the venerable 2.0-liter Duratec mill that sees duty in the Ford Focus.

Holtzberg's carbon-fiber block has the potential to save more than 20 pounds over the aluminum equivalent, but at an enormous cost. There's no definite word on pricing just yet, but it should be at least $2,500 per pound saved, which pretty well limits the technology to race teams... for now.

The technology could make huge leaps forward in weight saving and fuel economy should it ever hit the streets, but don't figure on that happening for quite a while.

Plastic Fantastic: Are composite engines the future? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 10 May 2011 14:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carboncarbon fibercarbon fiber engineduratecfocusfordholtzbergmatti holtzbergplastic engineTue, 10 May 2011 14:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19934796/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/05/10/are-composite-engines-the-future/19934796/article-detail.xml 19934796 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2009/10/plastic-engine-popular-science_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2009/10/plastic-engine-popular-science.jpg <![CDATA[Rumormill: Light BMW M Concept coming to Tokyo Motor Show]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/24/rumormill-light-bmw-m-concept-coming-to-tokyo-motor-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/24/rumormill-light-bmw-m-concept-coming-to-tokyo-motor-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/24/rumormill-light-bmw-m-concept-coming-to-tokyo-motor-show/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

BMW M Concept Sketch

The forums are alight with word that BMW will be bringing something unique to this year's Tokyo Motor Show. According to the BMW-obsessed crowd over at M3Post.com, the Roundel is looking to flex its muscles when it comes to lightweight engineering with an M concept that boasts the best the company has to offer. Supposedly, the chassis will use a plethora of exotic materials to shave off every last pound, including magnesium, titanium, thermoplastic and carbon fiber. Unfortunately, it sounds like the concept will be a one-off piece and not something that's destined for production. A real shame since we could really go for a 1 Series CSL.

That doesn't mean BMW won't use the technology in the concept in its production vehicles, though. The German manufacturer has made it clear that carbon-fiber reinforced plastic is going to be a big part of its vehicles moving forward, and we wouldn't be surprised to see the material joined by other lightweight components as shedding pounds becomes increasingly important to meeting fuel economy and performance goals.

[Source: M3 Post]

Rumormill: Light BMW M Concept coming to Tokyo Motor Show originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 24 Mar 2011 20:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwbmw mcarbon fiberconceptcsllightweight conceptmm concepttokyo motor showThu, 24 Mar 2011 20:24:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19891052/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/03/24/rumormill-light-bmw-m-concept-coming-to-tokyo-motor-show/19891052/article-detail.xml 19891052 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/17-bmw-vision-connecteddrive-630op_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/17-bmw-vision-connecteddrive-630op.jpg <![CDATA[Report: Audi developing super lightweight R8 codenamed NF]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/28/report-audi-developing-super-lightweight-r8-codenamed-nf/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/28/report-audi-developing-super-lightweight-r8-codenamed-nf/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/28/report-audi-developing-super-lightweight-r8-codenamed-nf/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2014 Audi R8 NF
Audi R8 NF prototype - Click above for high-res image gallery

Audi has hinted that it's in the process of developing an ultra-lightweight version of the R8 codenamed NF. Revealed during a technology demonstration at its lightweight materials facility in Germany, the NF is tipped to debut around 2014.

While there are no photos of the car available, Motor Trend reports that Audi showed off an R8 V10 that had several body panels replaced with carbon fiber units that may well be related to the NF's development. When the NF breaks cover, it is expected to sport a carbon-fiber passenger compartment, with a full cf bulkhead between the occupants and the engine compartment.

Apparently, the NF will incorporate not only its own technology, but pieces from the R8 Spyder, limited-edition R8GT and E-Tron concept. Audi said the prototype at the demonstration was 20 percent lighter than the current aluminum-bodied R8, yet it maintains its structural integrity and crash worthiness. To prove their point, Audi engineers showed off a crash-tested R8 that sported cf roof rails.


Gallery: 2014 Audi R8 NF concept

Audi R8 NF side distanceAudi R8 NF Carbon fiber drop testAudi R8 NF InteriorAudi R8 NF

[Source: Motor Trend | Images: Audi]

Report: Audi developing super lightweight R8 codenamed NF originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 28 Feb 2011 16:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 audi r8 v10audiaudi r8 nfcarbon fibernfr8R8 nfMon, 28 Feb 2011 16:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19860727/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/02/28/report-audi-developing-super-lightweight-r8-codenamed-nf/19860727/article-detail.xml 19860727 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/02/audi-r8-nf-prototype-front-1298927263_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/02/audi-r8-nf-prototype-front-1298927263.jpg <![CDATA[Audi, Voith enter new carbon fiber partnership]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/17/audi-voith-enter-new-carbon-fiber-partnership/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/17/audi-voith-enter-new-carbon-fiber-partnership/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/17/audi-voith-enter-new-carbon-fiber-partnership/#commentsFiled under: ,

Audi Aluminum A5 Coupe Prototype
Audi Aluminum A5 Coupe Prototype - Click above for high-res image

Audi has put carbon fiber to good use in concept vehicles like the e-tron show cars and a special lightweight A5, which has a carbon fiber hood and rear deck, and in some parts of the R8 and RS 3. The high-tech (and currently expensive) material could make the jump from fancy accoutrement to integral part of future lightweight production cars thanks to the announcement that Audi and Voith GmbH have formed a development partnership to bring "fiber-reinforced materials" to market by "developing a highly automated process chain for high-volume automotive production."

Voith has many years of experience with carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP), a material that BMW will use in the Megacity EV and other vehicles. Mercedes, too, is interested in carbon fiber, and this is one party that can't have too many guests. Feel free to read the complete press release after the break.

[Source: Audi]

Continue reading Audi, Voith enter new carbon fiber partnership

Audi, Voith enter new carbon fiber partnership originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 17 Feb 2011 07:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audiaudi voithcarbon fibercarbon fiber reinforced plasticscfrpvoithThu, 17 Feb 2011 07:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19846757/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/02/17/audi-voith-enter-new-carbon-fiber-partnership/19846757/article-detail.xml 19846757 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/09/300909aud-620op_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/09/300909aud-620op.jpg <![CDATA[Audi hits the slopes with advanced carbon ski design]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/10/audi-hits-the-slopes-with-advanced-carbon-ski-design/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/10/audi-hits-the-slopes-with-advanced-carbon-ski-design/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/10/audi-hits-the-slopes-with-advanced-carbon-ski-design/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Audi Carbon Ski concept
Audi Carbon Ski concept - Click above for high-res image

Automakers are constantly on the lookout for potential synergies. Downhill skis wouldn't be one of the areas you might think they'd find it, but we've had plenty of examples that demonstrate to the contrary: Dynastar and Ferrari, Salomon and Saab, Zai and Bentley, Volant and Infiniti... and now Audi has joined the party with an advanced carbon fiber ski design.

Collaborating with sports equipment manufacturer Head and drawing from Audi's partnership with the German Ski Association, Audi Concept Design Munich developed these carbon skis that are at once both more rigid and more flexible than existing designs. They're built around a wood core, sandwiched with aluminum and titanium and coated in carbon fiber.

The result is said to be some 200 grams lighter than a comparable conventional design. While they're strictly a concept design for the time being, Audi and Head are testing the skis for production potential. Interested? Follow the jump for more details in the full press release.

[Source: Audi]

Continue reading Audi hits the slopes with advanced carbon ski design

Audi hits the slopes with advanced carbon ski design originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 10 Feb 2011 07:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audiaudi carbon skicarboncarbon fiberskiskisThu, 10 Feb 2011 07:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19836233/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/02/10/audi-hits-the-slopes-with-advanced-carbon-ski-design/19836233/article-detail.xml 19836233 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/02/web630-audi-carbon-ski_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/02/web630-audi-carbon-ski.jpg -1 2