Showing posts with label Gadgets. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Gadgets. Show all posts

Thursday, December 9, 2010

2011 Vauxhall Antara Facelift Prices Start Under �20k in the UK

2011 Vauxhall Antara Facelift FrontFollowing the reveal of its Opel counterpart in mainland Europe, Vauxhall has released pricing and specifications on the UK market Antara facelift, which boasts a barely noticeable makeover and a refreshed engine lineup. Prices for the updated SUV now start from �19,995 for the 2.2 CDTi (163PS) Exclusiv front-wheel drive model, which according to Vauxhall, represents a saving of �2,835 over the outgoing base version.

2011 Vauxhall Antara Facelift TuringOn the outside, styling changes for the 2011 Antara include the updated front grille with the new Griffin logo, enhanced by fog lights finished with chrome bezels on SE models, new 19-inch alloy wheels and modified rear lights.

Inside, the new Antara's cabin features a revised centre console with extra storage and higher-quality materials, in addition to improved instrument graphics and better interior lighting.

The 2011 model's revised Euro-5 compliant engine line-up includes a newly-developed 2.2-liter CDTI turbodiesel in two states of tune with 163HP or 184HP. The 163HP version is available in front-wheel drive with a six-speed manual transmission only or all-wheel drive hooked up to either a manual or six-speed auto gearbox. The more potent 184HP variant also offers a choice of manual or automatic transmissions, and comes with all-wheel drive as standard. All transmissions have been revised to improve efficiency.

The Vauxhall Antara will not be offered in the UK with the revised 170HP 2.4-liter gasoline engine of its Opel sibling.

GM Europe's engineers have also re-worked the SUV's chassis with revised spring and damper settings.

Finally, Vauxhall has improved safety and comfort features with the addition of an electric parking brake, a Hill Assist System as well as a "shift-up" fuel economy indicator on all models.

"At less than �20k, the new Antara is set to be highly competitive in today's SUV market," said Peter Hope, Vauxhall's Marketing Director. "Its lower emissions, higher output diesel engines and refreshed design will offer renewed appeal to both retail and fleet customers."

2011 Vauxhall Antara Facelift Turing Photo
2011 Vauxhall Antara Facelift Back Side
Vauxhall Antara Facelift Prices Image

Saturday, October 2, 2010

2010 Mini Cooper Christmas Gifts


MINI has released its 2010 MINI Christmas Collection and autoevolution has photos of the items available. The new collection includes Mini Cooper Christmas gifts suited for all ages, from the youngest Mini fans, to people who got the chance to drive the original Mini.

MINI's latest Lifestyle Collection includes numerous items ranging from the Sonoro Internet Radio that can receive over 18,000 web radio stations via WiFi or LAN and the Cuckoo Clock, to the Snow Rocker toboggan, a Baby Racer, pedal cars, the Baby Rocker Newborn Set and various other toys.

Furthermore, the MINI Cuckoo Clock comes in a classic chrome look and has an original MINI speedometer-style dial. Also, you can store Christmas photos and videos on the MINI-branded USB Stick.

The list of Mini Cooper Christmas gifts for her includes in 2010 various boots, a briefcase, a Rooftop Cabin Trolley, a Lapeer Hat and a stylish umbrella.


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Press Release

Munich. Time flies, and before you know it Christmas is just around the corner. To make the annual gift hunt that much easier, MINI has put together a selection of the best ideas for all the family. The MINI Lifestyle Collection has something everybody will enjoy unwrapping under the Christmas tree.

The best gift ideas for him.

MINI has teamed up with design audio products experts sonoro audio to bring sounds from around the world into our living rooms, bedrooms, kitchens and offices. The result of the cooperation is the MINI Limited Edition sonoro Internet radio, which combines urban chic with a boundless musical experience. The MINI rocks sonoro limited edition of the elements W Internet radio can receive over 18,000 web radio stations via WiFi or LAN. The design radio also boasts a media player function for streaming music libraries direct from a computer. The alarm clock, sleep and snooze functions, Radio Frequency remote control and eDock external iPod� docking station with charging function are all easy to use.

Whether you�re setting off on a road trip with your motorbike or taking a tour on a quad bike, trike or snowmobile, you�ll always be playing safe with the stylish MINI Jet Helmet. The helmet meets all the relevant safety standards and plays the stylish understatement card to perfection. A Union Jack print and bonnet stripes provide a spotless retro look, while high-quality workmanship ensures the requisite protection. The Jet Helmet is made from a fibreglass and synthetic compound, and has a polycarbonate visor. Other features include a quick-release fastener and an antiallergenic, removable and washable inner lining.

The MINI Calendar 2011 is the work of Hamburg artist and graphic designer Wolfgang Block. �Transformation and Crossover� is the basic idea behind each month�s image. The artist blends differing techniques � such as Rorschach, graffiti and pop art � in a personal interpretation of the collision between fantasy and reality in the MINI Accessories world. It�s enough to turn any bare wall into an eye-catching canvas.

This cult MINI Cuckoo Clock comes in a classic chrome look and has an original MINI speedometer-style dial. At the strike of each hour the garage on the underside opens its doors and a detailed miniature MINI moves around the dial, accompanied by faithfully reproduced MINI engine and horn sounds. A small photo sensor enables the clock to distinguish between day and night, and therefore ensures a peaceful night�s sleep.

The elegant MINI USB Stick borrows the unmistakable design of the MINI ignition key and features a handy neck strap. With 8 GB storage capacity it offers ample accommodation for Christmas photos and the like.

The best gift ideas for her.

For anyone heading for faraway places, MINI has the perfect travelling companion. The robust MINI hardshell suitcases from the Rooftop line can take anything you throw at them. The MINI Rooftop Cabin Trolley, for example, represents a stylish and reliable means of carrying your kit. Decked out in either the Union Jack or racing stripes, it has an extending telescopic handle, two strong carry handles and smooth-running wheels. The main compartment is fitted with packing belts and a divider, while the centre section has two small side pockets. Also provided are a protective transportation cover, an integrated lock and a nameplate to help the trolley find its way home should � perish the thought � owner and case become separated.

The design of the extensive Black Jack luggage line from MINI stands out with its classy black finish and tone-in-tone Union Jack motif. The MINI Black Jack Briefcase ensures you have everything you need for a day at the office. It boasts a clever inner compartment system with pockets for a mobile phone, pens and business cards, and your laptop slides away securely into a separate padded compartment. The briefcase can be fixed easily to the trolley�s telescopic handle with the help of the slide-in pocket on its reverse side.

Should the inevitable happen and the long awaited white Christmas fail to materialise, the MINI Countryman Boots will keep your feet dry amid the mud and rain. With their Union Jack motif, rock-style print and Countryman badge, the black unisex wellies make a stylish statement, as well as a fine Christmas gift. The British flag also crops up on the inside of the boots.

Its snug fake fur lining makes the trapper-style MINI Badges Lapeer Hat a good bet for warm ears during the chillier times of year. Badges on the �dog ears� provide the de rigueur vintage look. On warmer days, the ear flaps can be neatly folded up and fixed to the top of the head section.

Fashion meets pop art as �Pop Style� series accessories in contrasting shades � from radiant yellow to electric blue � recall classic Andy Warhol creations. The bright and colourful MINI Pop Style Umbrella opens and closes automatically, and lightens the mood on grey days. The design of the handle takes its cue from the MINI gear selector.

The best gift ideas for the youngsters.

The hot-heeled MINI Snow Rocker toboggan is destined to give both kids and adults hours of sliding fun. Made from robust and ultra-slick material, the Snow Rocker is suitable for all snow conditions. Measuring 66 cm long and weighing just 2,500 grams, the toboggan is easy to steer through slight shifts in weight. A Union Jack print and racing stripes on the seat surface ensure it attracts envious glances on any sledge run.

The MINI Baby Racer brings the hallmark MINI driving fun to fledgling drivers aged 1 to 3. The design of the red push-car combines high levels of safety, impressive quality and an eye for detail � from the MINI style front and rear lights to its modern wheel rim design and the original MINI colour shade Chili Red. The wide plastic wheels ensure a quiet ride, without leaving marks on parquet floors, so budding drivers can set off on their first few laps around the Christmas tree without ado.

Dads will also be tempted to take the blue, single-seat MINI Cooper S Convertible � for car fans aged between 3 and 5 � out for a spin. The sporty pedal-drive system ensures impressive output potential, but for those looking for a more leisurely experience there�s also a motorised version. Special rubber tyres help to minimise �road roar� and ensure stress-free indoor use.

After nine months on tour, you�re crying out for style. So this ultra-soft MINI Baby Rocker Newborn Set of romper suit and bib makes the perfect gift for all MINI rockers aged 6 to 12 months. The neutral grey will suit both boys and girls, and guarantees the littl�uns will make a big impression.

With his MINI collar and black dog shirt, the furry MINI Bulldog Soft Toy will melt the heart of any animal lover. Kids will take the four-legged charmer with the cute nose straight to their hearts, while grown-up MINI fans will surely agree that this dog is not just for Christmas.

The soft and cuddly furry MINI Bulldog Plush Cushion with bulldog design is just what you need to unwind after the Christmas hurly-burly. An endearing bulldog appliqu� adorns this otherwise simple and plain coloured chill-out cushion. Bring on Christmas!


Wednesday, September 29, 2010

Ferrari World Abu Dhabi Announces Pay-By-Height Pricing and Merry-Go-Around with Never Before Seen Prototypes


Ferrari World Abu Dhabi has announced that it will be opening to the public for a short Inaugural Period, beginning at 7pm on October 27th, 2010. This period, which will no doubt be used to sort out any kinks, will continue up to the park's official, Grand Opening in November.

Unlike most parks, which sell tickets based on age, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi's tickets will be sold according to height. Guests under 1.5 metres (4.9 ft) will pay AED 165 (US$45), while guests over 1.5 metres will pay AED 225 (US$61).

Visitors to the park can also upgrade to an AED 375 (US$102) premium ticket that gives them priority access to all rides and attractions, access to an exclusive lounge area and other benefits.

Claus Frimand, General Manager of Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, is feeling confident:

"We are on schedule to open the park with a wide selection of rides and attractions. We have managed to turn one of the world's most exclusive brands into an extraordinary experience which families and fans will come back for time and time again."

The park has also announced a new attraction: a Ferrari-fied merry-go-round called Carousel. The attraction will feature four design studies never before seen outside of Maranello, created by design students under the banner of, "Ferrari: new concepts for the myth". These cars will feature moving brake pedals / accelerators and working horns.

This "Disneyland for Ferrari Fans" is the world's largest indoor theme park, with a surface area of 200,000m� (2.15 million sq. ft.) and many rides including what is claimed to be the world's fastest roller-coaster, the 240km/h [149mph] Formula Rossa.

By Tristan Hankins



Tuesday, September 28, 2010

Citro�n Releases Dating 2.0 to Help People Find a Date for The Paris Motor Show (and Market the DS3)


Ooohweee, does Citro�n know how to get this pale, pajama-wearing, cries-himself-to-sleep-every-night hippie blogger interested. Screw match-dot-com, we've got a car dating service now. The French brand know for its wild and out of this world concepts (see GTbyCitro�n, Survolt, Revolte, etc.) has created a new form of match-up for the car enthusiast called Dating 2.0, and it's one nifty little time-waster.

Just be aware that the first step is asking your preference, not what you are. Don't make the same mistake I did and wind up looking at a dude in boxer briefs. Well, unless that's your thing, in which case go for it.

I, on the other hand, went with classy, busty, and shapely for my little lady and ended up with a "beautiful, alluring, and enigmatic" fish supper-enjoying mermaid and a red DS3. Yeah, I thought it was weird, too, so I tried it again...and it got even weirder.

Next, I chose funny, toned, and sporty (or something thereabouts) and ended up with a dominatrix-looking chick in leather with "a dominant personality and a unique dress sense". And...and...she's wearing a studded collar with a friggin' leash.

Try out this Dating 2.0 (link below) for yourself and leave your kinky results in the comments below. As for me, I'm off to the store to snag some furry handcuffs.

By Phil Alex

Link: Citro�n Dating 2.0


Hasselblad H4D Ferrari is Another Cynical Marketing Excercise


Why can't carmakers stick to building cars? You don't see Dyson and Prada making a limited edition vacuum cleaner or Apple and Westinghouse producing an iPad integrated refrigerator (so far).

And yet, here we are. Swedish camera company Hasselblad (famous for its camera's use on the Apollo moon missions) and Italian supercar maker Ferrari have collaborated on a limited edition model of the Hasselblad H4D camera.

The Ferrari limited edition is nothing more than a standard Hasselblad H4D camera painted "rosso fuoco" red and with the Ferrari shield applied.

More thought seems to have been put into the box which features a glass top and separate compartments for the camera and lens / accessories.

Hasselblad will build just 499 units of its H4D Ferrari, possibly as a nod to the Ferrari 430 16M Scuderia Spider which was built in the same numbers. Hasselblad has promised to release more details in October, which we await with baited breath.

By Tristan Hankins