USA - Dodge shakes up the muscle car segment with a range of new models.

Dodge Celebrates 45 Years of Its Functional “Cold-air Grabbing” Hood Scoop That “Shakes” With the Legendary HEMI® V-8 Engine’s Movement

• Back by enthusiast demand, Dodge returns the “Shaker” to the Challenger lineup – now expanding the functional cold-air induction hood scoop on two HEMI V-8 engines and three performance-packed models
•  “King of the Shakers” – all-new 2015 Dodge Challenger 392 HEMI Scat Pack Shaker combines the ultimate combination of 485 best-in-class horsepower and legendary Dodge heritage cues with a functional Shaker hood
• Dodge Challenger R/T Shaker and R/T Plus Shaker models feature the legendary 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine with unique hood and intake design combined with a functional exposed-element cold-air intake system
• New 2015 Dodge Challenger R/T Shaker and R/T Plus Shaker are available for ordering now, with the 392 HEMI Scat Pack Shaker model available for customer orders in March

Designed to deliver maximum performance and the most Dodge muscle-car heritage in the brand’s lineup, the new 2015 Challenger R/T Shaker, R/T Plus Shaker and first-ever 392 HEMI® Scat Pack Shaker models celebrate 45 years of the functional “cold-air grabbing” hood scoop that “shakes” with the legendary HEMI V-8 engine’s movement.

“After selling out last year’s Shaker model production in just four days, our hardcore Challenger customers demanded we bring back the Shaker – plus offer more power and more performance,” said Tim Kuniskis, President and CEO, Dodge and SRT Brands. “We listened, and for 2015, the new Dodge Challenger lineup offers the legendary Shaker hood expanded to include our 485 horsepower HEMI V-8 delivering up to 113 more horsepower than last year, plus even more track-proven hardware and technology – a combination our enthusiasts have been waiting for.”

New 2015 Dodge Challenger R/T Shaker and R/T Plus Shaker are available for ordering now, with the high-performance 392 HEMI Scat Pack Shaker model available for customer orders in March.

45 years of the Shaker hood

As the model name suggests, the legendary “cold-air grabbing” Shaker not only looks good with its Satin Black center-mounted hood scoop, snorkeling up from the engine compartment, it also directs cooler air back into the 5.7-liter, or now  6.4-liter (392 cu.in.), HEMI® V-8 engine. And, like the original 1970 Challenger R/T with the Shaker hood, the new 2015 Challenger models continue the Dodge tradition of an engine-mounted hood scoop that “shakes” with the powertrain’s movement.

Designed for muscle-car buffs who can’t help but tinker with their toys, the Challenger R/T Shaker, R/T Plus Shaker and 392 HEMI Scat Pack Shaker models feature a functional Shaker hood with Mopar cold-air intake, conical air filter and optimized air box for improved airflow and performance. Lift the hood and enthusiasts will also be treated to an under-hood “Shaker” graphic – reminiscent of the 1970s original.

Challenger R/T Shaker

For drivers who like to share their performance credentials, the new Challenger R/T Shaker adds a functional Shaker hood with cold-air induction and Mopar conical air filter to the Challenger R/T model’s 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine delivering up to 375 horsepower and 410 lb.-ft. of torque. In addition the package adds hood-to-tail Satin Black Shaker graphic stripes, Shaker hood badges, black deck-lid spoiler with Parkview backup camera, “Shaker” startup screen, Satin Black fuel-filler door with heritage “FUEL” lettering, projector fog lamps, 20-inch polished aluminum satin finish wheels with black pockets and premium black cloth performance seats with Ballistic 2 inserts and Tungsten accent stitching.

The new TorqueFlite eight-speed transmission is available (372 horsepower, 400 lb.-ft. of torque) and includes Sport mode with paddle shifters, plus Fuel Saver Technology with four-cylinder mode and interactive Decel Fuel Shut Off (iDFSO).

Super Track Pak

For maximum performance on road and track, Challenger R/T Shaker includes the Super Track Pak with a full complement of race-bred chassis upgrades, including a 0.5-inch lowered suspension, high-performance Bilstein shock absorbers, high-performance brakes, three-mode electronic stability control (ESC) calibration with “full off” and three-season Goodyear Eagle F1 tires (Goodyear Eagle RSA all-season performance tires available). For a more road-holding stance, the Dodge Challenger R/T Shaker is available with 20-by-9-inch matte black lightweight forged aluminum wheels (late availability).

The new 2015 Dodge Challenger R/T Shaker model has a starting U.S. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price of $35,495 (all prices exclude $995 destination).

Challenger R/T Plus Shaker

Adding to the Challenger R/T Shaker model’s standard equipment, the new 2015 Challenger R/T Plus Shaker includes unique heated and ventilated Nappa leather performance seats with “Shaker” logo stitched in Black and Ruby Red, or Black and Sepia; unique door bolsters with graduated accent stitching, premium floor mats with “Dodge” logo, Dodge Performance leather-wrapped steering wheel with power tilt-and-telescoping column, Uconnect 8.4-inch touchscreen display with AM/FM/SiriusXM Radio, Bluetooth, 3-D navigation-capable and Uconnect Access with 9-1-1 call/Assist Call , six premium speakers and 276-watt digital amplifier. For a more road-holding stance, the Dodge Challenger R/T Plus Shaker is available with 20-by-9-inch matte black lightweight forged aluminum wheels.

Expanding on the Super Track Pak’s capability, the Challenger R/T Plus Shaker adds a shortcut button to the new Dodge Performance Pages embedded in the class-exclusive Uconnect 8.4-inch touch screen radio that provides visible performance information, such as programmable shift light indicator, reaction time, 0-60 times, G-force indicator and lap times in the 7-inch TFT customizable cluster display.

The new 2015 Dodge Challenger R/T Plus Shaker model has a starting U.S. MSRP of $38,495.

Challenger 392 HEMI Scat Pack Shaker

As the “King of all Shakers,” the 392 HEMI Scat Pack Shaker ups-the-ante with its best-in-class 485 horsepower and 475 lb.-ft. of torque, delivering up to 113 more horsepower and a 65-lb.-ft. leap in torque compared with the 5.7-liter Challenger R/T Shaker models — representing more than a 30 percent jump in horsepower and 18 percent jump in torque. The coupe’s best-in-class power enables it to turn mid 4-second 0-60 mph times and low 12-second quarter mile times.

Adding to the standard equipment found on the Dodge Challenger R/T Plus Shaker, the first-ever 2015 Challenger 392 HEMI Scat Pack Shaker includes a 6.4-liter (392 cu.in.) HEMI V-8 engine with 485 horsepower and exposed functional shaker hood with engine-mounted high-flow cold-air induction, Tremec six-speed manual transmission (new TorqueFlite eight-speed transmission with paddle shifters is available), Scat Pack fender badge, 392 HEMI Shaker hood badge, 180 mph primary speedometer, active stainless steel performance dual exhaust system and 220-amp alternator. In addition, the Challenger 392 HEMI Scat Pack Shaker takes the Super Track Pak suspension to the next level with a Brembo four-piston high-performance brake package and 20-by-9-inch polished aluminum wheels.

Scat Pack Appearance Group

With the available Scat Pack Appearance Group, the 2015 Challenger 392 HEMI Scat Pack Shaker model replaces the hood-to-tail Satin Black Shaker graphic stripes for the signature Satin Black Bumble Bee rear stripe – a Dodge heritage cue that dates back to 1968. Additional equipment includes Scat Pack-logo embroidered performance seats in Black or Ruby Red Nappa leather, animated “Scat Pack” Bumble Bee splash screen and 20-by-9-inch lightweight forged matte black aluminum wheels. MSRP for the Scat Pack Appearance Group is $1,100.

The new 2015 Dodge Challenger 392 HEMI Scat Pack Shaker model has a starting U.S. MSRP of $42,495 (excluding $1,000 gas-guzzler tax with manual transmission).

Heritage Hues

Heritage and high-impact exterior colors for the 2015 Dodge Challenger Shaker model range include B5 Blue, Sublime Green and TorRed. Other factory colors include Billet Silver Metallic, Bright White, Pitch Black and Granite Crystal Metallic.

Dodge continues to build on the Scat Pack legacy

In 1968, Dodge united the brand’s performance vehicle enthusiasts through the creation of the “Scat Pack Club.” The Scat Pack Club quickly transformed and expanded from an enthusiast club, into an over-arching Dodge performance philosophy. This shared philosophy ultimately evolved into the desire for even more performance. Dodge and Mopar brands partnered to respect this need by delivering factory-engineered performance stage kits that would ultimately become known as “Scat Packs.”

For the 2015 model year, the all-new 2015 Challenger R/T Scat Pack and 392 HEMI Scat Pack Shaker models were created to deliver even more performance to the Dodge lineup. With a best-in-class 485 horsepower and 475 lb.-ft. of torque, track-ready performance features, heritage styling and the availability of the class-exclusive TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission – these two Challenger models are targeted directly at hardcore Dodge enthusiasts.

Aerodynamically optimised, The McLaren 675LT stays true to the Icon.

• Active ‘Longtail’ Airbrake contributes to a 40 percent increase in overall downforce
• 700 Nm (516 lb ft) produced by a heavily revised 3.8-litre twin turbo V8 featuring lightweight components and new turbos
• Bespoke titanium crossover exhaust ensures optimised performance. See, and hear, it at:http://youtu.be/tOl7gZ8bQdY

The 675LT, the first McLaren in nearly two decades to wear the LT – or ‘Longtail’ – name, will stay true to the spirit of its iconic predecessor with aerodynamically optimised, dramatically enhanced styling that results in 40 percent more downforce than the 650S which it will sit alongside in the McLaren Super Series.  A total power output of 675PS (666bhp), and torque figure of 700 Nm (516 lb ft) plus a focus on weight saving will ensure an electrifying, engaging and visceral driving experience.

These output figures are produced by a heavily revised 3.8-litre twin turbo V8 featuring lightweight components and new turbos. A controlled torque delivery of 600Nm (443 lb ft) ensures optimised acceleration and traction from a standing start in first gear, rising to the full 700Nm available from 5,500-6,500 rpm, through each of the other gears. A redesigned crossover exhaust system, bespoke to the 675LT, is formed from lightweight titanium. 

Two circular titanium exhaust pipes exit centrally through exposed bodywork below the rear ‘Longtail’ Airbrake. The new system is designed to optimise performance and reduce weight – another pillar of the LT ethos.

Available as a coupé only, the 675LT will join the core range of McLaren supercars later this year as a more track focused alternative to the established 650S Coupé and Spider.  Together, they form the newly named McLaren Super Series which sits above the recently announced Sports Series in the range.

Further details of the McLaren 675LT, including its startling performance figures, will be released with the car’s global debut at the 85th International Geneva Motor Show, on Tuesday 3 March 2015.

The new Ferrari 488 GTB V8 debuts at Geneva: track-level performance and responsiveness for the road.

Ferrari 488 GTB: extreme power for extreme driving thrills

Forty years on from the unveiling of its first ever mid-rear-engined V8 model, the 308 GTB, the Prancing Horse opens a new chapter in its 8-cylinder history. The Ferrari 488 GTB provides track-level performance that can be enjoyed to the full even by non-professional drivers in everyday use. Its response times, nimbleness and on-the-limit driving guarantee a unique sense of exhilaration and unparalleled driving pleasure.

The new berlinetta brilliantly encapsulates Ferrari’s experience in both F1 and the WEC, where the 458 GT holds the World Championship title and has won its category in the last two editions of the 24 Hours of Le Mans. 

The new model also exploits to the full the know-how gleaned by Ferrari technicians over the last decade through the XX programme which makes extreme track-only cars available to gentleman test-drivers. The data yielded has made a significant contribution to the refinement of the electronic and vehicle control systems so that drivers can make the most of the incredible performance of this new car.

The Ferrari 488 GTB’s new 3902 cc V8 turbo is at the top of its class for power output, torque and response times, making it the new benchmark for this kind of architecture. The engine unleashes 670 cv at 8,000 rpm along with 760 Nm of maximum torque in seventh gear and a response time to the accelerator of just 0.8 seconds at 2,000 rpm. 

These figures are sufficient to allow the Ferrari 488 GTB to accelerate from 0-200 km/h in an astonishing 8.3 seconds and, when combined with the radical innovations introduced on all aspects of the car’s performance, lap the Fiorano track in just 1’23”.

The gearbox features Variable Torque Management which unleashes the engine’s massive torque smoothly and powerfully right across the rev range, while specific gear ratios deliver incredibly progressive acceleration when the driver floors the throttle. As is always the case, Ferrari’s engineers have dedicated great attention to perfecting the 488 GTB’s sound, creating a new soundtrack that is full, clear and totally distinctive, as expected from any Prancing Horse engine.

The car’s aerodynamics also made a pivotal contribution to performance: its 1.67 efficiency figure is a new record for a production Ferrari, and is the fruit of 50 per cent more downforce than the previous model and reduced drag. The greatest challenge was achieving these two goals simultaneously. Several innovative elements were specifically developed to do so, not least a double front spoiler, base bleed side intakes and, at the rear, active aerodynamics coupled with a blown spoiler. 

The aerodynamic underbody, which incorporates vortex generators, is highly sophisticated, too.

The Ferrari 488 GTB’s subsystems and electronic controls make its power and performance instantly available and controllable. It is, in fact, the most responsive production model there is, with razor-sharp response times comparable to those of a track car.

The evolved version of Ferrari’s side slip angle control system (Side Slip Control 2 - SSC2) is more precise and less invasive, providing greater longitudinal acceleration out of corners. Aside from integrating with the car’s F1-Trac and E-Diff, the SSC2 now also controls the active dampers which renders the car’s dynamic behaviour during complex manoeuvres even flatter and more stable.

Designed by the Ferrari Styling Centre, the new car features very sculptural flanks which are the key to its character. Its large signature air intake scallop is a nod to the original 308 GTB and is divided into two sections by a splitter. The wide front spoiler features a double profile to improve the thermal efficiency of the radiators positioned at the sides. At the centre two pylons are combined with a deflector which channels air towards the flat underbody. 

The broad, low tail is also dominated by aerodynamic solutions, including an innovative blown spoiler which generates downforce without increasing drag. This works in conjunction with an aggressive ramp angle for the diffuser which features active flaps. The greater height required for the diffuser was achieved by repositioning the exhaust tailpipes. The circular LED tail lights have also been redesigned. 

In the cabin, the seamless integration of the new satellite control clusters, angled air vents and instrument panel heightens the sense that the cockpit is completely tailored around the driver. Usability was the key word in the design, leading to an extremely sporty ambience that in no way compromises on comfort. 

There are plenty of classic Ferrari styling elements too, such as the clear separation between the dashboard and tunnel, the multifunctional steering wheel, the control switch bridge and wraparound seats. The graphics and interface of the infotainment screen have also been completely redesigned while the design of the car’s new key takes its inspiration from the car’s cylinder banks and allows keyless starts.

The Ferrari 488 GTB will make its world debut at the International Geneva Motor Show in March, but from today can be seen at www.ferrari.com.

Lexus debuts a number of premiere's at the 85th Geneva Motor Show.

• European premiere of the new Lexus F performance model, the GS F
• European premiere of the LF-C2 roadster concept
• World premiere of a new Lexus concept

The Geneva motor show will host the first European appearance to the latest addition to Lexus’s F portfolio of high-performance models, the new GS F. Seen first at the Detroit show in January, the GS F is a refined, four-door saloon with the speed and agility of a premium sports car. Its normally aspirated 5.0-litre V8 engine produces 470bhp and maximum torque of 530Nm. The GS F is also the first model to be equipped with the new, comprehensive Lexus Safety System+.

The GS F will be shown alongside the LF-C2 concept, which is also making its European debut following its unveiling in Los Angeles in 2014. This 2+2 open-top roadster design study explores styling themes that will be part of a new styling direction for the Lexus brand.

Geneva will also witness the world premiere of a new Lexus concept, to be unveiled during a press conference that will take place at 12:30 on 3 March on the Lexus stand (4211) in Hall 4 of the Palexpo exhibition centre.

TV star & ex-Formula 1 racer Tiff Needell to appear in an SD1 Rover at the Goodwood 73rd Members’ Meeting

Television star and ex-Formula 1 racer Tiff Needell is the latest big name to be added to the Goodwood 73^rdMembers’ Meeting line-up as the star-studded entry list for the March 21-22 event nears completion.

Needell, whose father Tony contested the inaugural Members’ Meeting at Goodwood in 1949, will race in the Gerry Marshall Trophy for Group 1 touring cars of upto 1982 vintage, which is named in honour of the 1970s tin-top cult hero.

The Fifth Gear and former Top Gear presenter, who started the 1980 Belgian Grand Prix for the British Ensign team and can also list a British Touring Car race win and a podium finish at the Le Mans 24 Hours among his many achievements, will race a 1981 Rover 3500 SD1.

Tiff and the Rover he will be driving

Other pictures of Tiff and SD1 Rovers (The most beautiful cars of its era)

The car, which carries the famous Daily Express livery, is the same machine in which Needell finished ninth in last year’s Gerry Marshall Trophy. He will once again share the former Dave Price Racing and Tom Walkinshaw Racing car with its owner, Peter Mallett.

Goodwood House Captains Emanuele Pirro (Torbolton), Jochen Mass (Darnley) and Nicolas Minassian (Aubigny), all of whom will lead their respective teams in pursuit of the Goodwood House Trophy, have all now had their cars for the Gerry Marshall Trophy confirmed.

Formula 1 Grand Prix winner Mass will pilot a 1982-spec Rover 3500 SD1 in the Sanyo livery made famous by Jeff Allam’s British Touring Car exploits while five-time Le Mans 24 Hours winner Pirro – second in last year’s race – will drive Philip Perryman’s 1977 UFO Jeans BMW 530i; a car that makes its Members’ Meeting debut in 2015.

Minassian, who was unable to compete in last year’s event, has secured a seat in Duncan McKay’s BP Ford Capri III 3.0S, which was driven by Darren Turner last year. Anthony Reid, whose Methuen House took the prize in 2014, was last week confirmed to drive a Triumph Dolomite Sprint.

They join a top-line list of current and former professional racers in the Gerry Marshall Trophy, which includes 2012 World Touring Car champion Rob Huff, BTCC title winners Andrew Jordan Tim Harvey, Robb Gravett and tin-top heroes Steve Soper, Darren Turner, Rob Austin, Stuart Graham and Patrick Watts.

You'll want this, the new Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT Red Vapor, whats not to like.....

Plans to continue the success of the remarkable Jeep Grand Cherokee range of 4x4 vehicles have been announced, with details of a formidable new SRT version, the Red Vapor Limited Edition.

Designed to sit competitively in the sports performance sub-SUV segment of the hotly contested 4WD market, the new 6.4-litre V8-powered Grand Cherokee SRT Red Vapor will offer all the presence of Jeep SRT’s legendary muscular sports styling with breath-taking performance. Top speed is 160mph while 0-62mph takes just five seconds.

First shown at last October’s Paris Motor Show, the new Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT Red Vapor comes with an assertive and attractive sports appearance, and features a host of desirable equipment befitting of the Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT badge. Unique exterior and interior styling cues enhance the car’s distinct, high-performance image and set it apart from other sporting SUVs.

As well as Quadra-Trac ‘Active on Demand’ four wheel drive, anti-lock SRT performance disc brakes and active damping suspension, the Red Vapor also offers premium sports styling in the form of body coloured door handles, black roof moulding, body coloured sill extensions and wheel flare extensions. 

Five-spoke 20-inch Goliath wheels and a specific Black Vapor black chrome finish enhance the exterior while the lower grille, inserts of the upper grille, SRT tailgate badge, side Grand Cherokee badges and bonnet Jeep badge are all glossy black.

The first limited edition of the current Grand Cherokee SRT, Red Vapor is not only available in Metallic Red (Redline). This exclusive car also comes in Bright White and Brilliant Black.

Inside, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear changer complement the exclusive Black Laguna leather and Radar Red suede seats with unique red stitching, luxury front and rear mats and chrome pedals. The SRT badge on Red Vapor’s steering wheel is backlit, and grey chrome replaces the shiny chrome seen on SRT.

The new Red Vapor is also equipped with the 8.4-inch Uconnect™ touchscreen display with integrated 3D navigation, advanced voice recognition, Bluetooth audio streaming and hands-free technology.

Further standard features include cross-path detection, adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, 825-watt Harman-Kardon audio system with 19 speakers and three sub-woofers, power tailgate, and rear light bar.

Powered by Jeep’s proven 461bhp, 6417cc, 16-valve, V8 engine, and connected to an eight-speed automatic gearbox with steering wheel-mounted paddle controls, the car features Fuel Saver technology to cut fuel consumption and emissions. The engine’s sporty note is enhanced by the innovative Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), which uses the audio system to counter any low frequency engine noises.

The new Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT Red Vapor will cost £64,999 (OTR) when it goes on sale later this week. That represents one of the best performance and equipment levels against price, among the sports SUV sub-segment.

“Styled and targeted to the high performance SUV market and with an exceptional level of equipment on offer, the Grand Cherokee SRT Red Vapor is very attractively priced,” says Damien Dally, head of brand, Jeep UK.

“With its sporting look, powerful performance and excellent value for money, this limited edition of SRT will, I am sure, appeal to a whole new group of discerning customers.”

The Alpine Gran Turismo: Coming to a Game Station near you very soon !

• The Alpine Vision Gran Turismo, fruit of the collective imagination of the designers and engineers entrusted with developing the 21^st Century Alpine, is due to appear soon in the celebrated Gran Turismo®6 game in millions of homes worldwide!
• The Alpine Vision Gran Turismo will enable players to get behind the virtual wheel of this exclusive creation that embodies the brand’s unique DNA.
• Dreams will become reality as Alpine present a breath-taking full-scale model of the car at the Festival Automobile International in Paris on 27^th January, 2015.

The Alpine of the 21^st Century is creeping gradually closer. The wait may seem interminable to the more impatient fans, but at least there is plenty going on in the meantime!

In motor racing, for example, the Alpine A450 prototype collected European endurance racing titles in 2013 and 2014, as well as a podium finish in the LM P2 class in last June’s Le Mans 24 Hours.

Now, as the brand’s 60^th anniversary festivities get under way, the Alpine Vision Gran Turismo heralds a new chapter in the make’s revival. Polyphony Digital Inc. – developers of PlayStation®’s Gran Turismo game – proposed the challenge of creating a new ‘virtual’ car in July 2013 and the teams at Alpine turned their attention to the project with the same passion, enthusiasm and rigour as they are committing to the upcoming new road car.

“The designers and engineers involved in this project were tasked with creating a car that expresses the spirit of our brand. Alpine’s genes are immediately visible in its styling, while its performance won’t disappoint either when players get behind the wheel, or their DualShock®PlayStation controller. 

They will find the same agility that helped to forge the legend of the original cars produced by Alpine founder Jean Rédélé. The Alpine Vision Gran Turismo stands at the crossroads of the past, present and future, at the frontier between motorsport and road cars. It also provides a link between the virtual and real worlds. Indeed, the end result is so stunning that we couldn’t resist producing an actual full-scale model of it! 

The Festival Automobile International, which places the emphasis on automobile aesthetics, was seen as the ideal setting for the first ‘real life’ rendering of a car since the announcement of Alpine’s revival broke cover. It will be possible to admire our latest creation and also to enjoy it first-hand thanks to Gran Turismo®6.”

Bernard Ollivier, CEO, Société des Automobiles Alpine

PASSION – A DRIVING FORCE

Before going into the design of the Alpine Vision Gran Turismo in more detail, it is perhaps an idea to go back more than 15 years when Sony recruited the Japanese economics student, Kazunori Yamauchi. ‘Kaz’ was an ambitious and visionary young man whose skill and passion as a game producer persuaded Sony to allow him to create his dream, five-years in the making - the ultimate driving simulator. Taking advantage of the technological breakthrough that was the PlayStation console, Polyphony Digital produced an immediate hit with the launch of Gran Turismo on 11^th December, 1999. It revolutionised the video game industry with sales of the first title reaching more than 11 million copies.

More than fifteen years later, the success story continues. Sales of the various iterations of Gran Turismo totalled more than 72 million before Gran Turismo®6 for PlayStation®3 was released in December 2014. Gran Turismo®6 stands out as a new benchmark and features over 1,200 of the world’s best cars and 39 tracks. The success of the franchise is due in great part to the partnerships its producers have sealed with the most prestigious carmakers. Grouped under the Vision Gran Turismo banner for the game’s 15^thanniversary, the prototype cars that have been created especially for the occasion are eagerly awaited by car and video game enthusiasts alike.

“Would you be prepared to design a car for Gran Turismo?” This simple question got the brains of the teams at Alpine thinking overtime, despite the fact that they were already busy preparing the brand’s comeback in the form of the first production car that will be presented to the public in 2016. This enticing blank sheet of paper provided them with an exciting opportunity to explore new creative ideas without having to take certain production-related constraints into account.

In July 2013, around 15 staff from Polyphony Digital Inc. visited Alpine’s studio where they were greeted by a similar number of people who shared the same passion for the automobile. ‘Kaz’, who has been fascinated by Alpine for some years, could not conceal his delight at the idea of hosting the French brand in his virtual showroom. Indeed, he rarely turns down a chance to indulge in a little circuit driving himself, so the inclusion of a racing marque such as Alpine held a special meaning for him.

Very soon, the idea of a lightweight, agile, barquette-type car, in keeping with the brand’s racing programme with the A450, took form.

An in-house competition involving around 15 designs was won by the project submitted by Victor Sfiazof: “It’s a genuine sportscar which combines the passion for cars with enjoyment behind the wheel. There are numerous references to the past, present and future. The idea of a barquette stemmed from the Alpine A450’s involvement in the Le Mans 24 Hours. That said, the front end takes its inspiration from the A110, while the vertical fins at the rear recall the A210 and A220 while making a real contribution to the car’s styling. As an aeronautic fan, I also wanted to incorporate cues from the world of aviation, too. The airbrakes add a nice high-tech touch to the rear end.”

Little by little, the car appeared in drawing form before a digital version was produced. At the same time, the chassis development engineers worked on the car’s technical characteristics. After benchmarking and comparing dozens of other cars featured in Gran Turismo, they found a set-up that put the accent on driving enjoyment, in keeping with the Alpine spirit.

Meanwhile, Polyphony Digital fed the data into their own software and, a little more than a year after the project’s launch, the final specification of the Alpine Vision Gran Turismo was set in concrete.

As the final icing on the cake, a new challenge was set: that of producing an actual tangible version of this incredible creation. The fruit of the model-makers’ efforts sparks a different set of sensations still, and the Alpine Vision Gran Turismo’s racy, atypical lines speak to all generations.

“As a child, I used to admire concept cars. They were like gifts that pointed to a bright future. That’s still how I see them. The technology used by car manufacturers today allows them to surpass my imagination. I hope that this research will contribute to changing our lives. I am very proud to have Alpine on board with us for the Vision Gran Turismo project. It’s a brand for which I have always had a great deal of affection and I have greatly appreciated the quality of the contact between our respective teams. This close tie was facilitated by the passion we all share. The Alpine that is now available for Gran Turismo players is the fruit of a formidable shared enthusiasm.”

Kazunori Yamauchi, President, Polyphony Digital Inc.,

Senior Vice President, Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.

A SPECTACULAR REAR-END DESIGN

While the brief submitted to the designers was, well, brief, it included one specific stipulation in comparison with their usual creations. The key focuses of the concept car needed to be the rear end and the cockpit, simply because they are the most popular views in motor sport video games.

Even so, our tour begins with the front of the car, which bears a striking resemblance to the A110. The sloping V-shaped bonnet is enhanced by a central crease and, in another nod to the 1960s, the cross-shaped LED lights recall the black tape that was used to protect the additional lights fitted to the Berlinette rally cars. These references to the past blend in seamlessly with an undeniably modern aerodynamic package that includes a splitter designed to channel airflow along the body sides. It also provides a glimpse of the suspension wishbones. Openings in the bonnet expose the orange struts which are located horizontally at the top of the chassis.

The car’s profile awakens other memories. Large air intakes direct the flow that escapes behind the front wheels and accentuate the narrow form of the body. Complementing the overall harmony, the long lateral rear fins call to mind the A210s and A220s which shone so brilliantly at Le Mans, achieving victory in the 24-hour race’s Efficiency Index class in 1966.

The wheels alone are eloquent of the fusion of present and past. The design of the rims – inspired by those fitted to the A110s – is sufficiently open to reveal the impressive brake callipers, painted in orange or blue, depending on the version.

The appeal of the Alpine Vision Gran Turismo is further enhanced by its open cockpit. The driver sits on the right, a design typical of sport-prototype cars given that the majority of circuits – not least of which Le Mans – run in a clockwise direction.

The roll cage is stylishly integrated, as is the engine air intake duct on the left-hand side. A butterfly door facilitates access, enabling the driver to slide on board. When it opens, it is possible to glimpse a little more of the work that has been carried out. The visible stitching of the leather seat is redolent of the famous cross pattern, complete with blue thread that brings a modern feel. The almost rectangular steering wheel, of the sort seen on the endurance racing prototypes, is crowned by digital instruments. Indispensable in fast-and-frenetic races, the rear view mirrors have been replaced by a high-definition camera.

The rear-end design represents an unmistakeable highlight of the Alpine Vision Gran Turismo. The flat bottom that runs beneath the car terminates in arched form, while a lower wing links the wheel arches to the stern. As at the front, the bodywork exposes the double wishbone suspension. A second, beautifully integrated wing yields even more aerodynamic downforce.

The most striking characteristics of the Alpine Vision Gran Turismo become apparent under braking. Integrated into the profile of the tail, the hydraulically-activated airbrakes can be deployed in an instant, while at the same time revealing the brake lights!

Gran Turismo allows players to choose between three personalised colours:

• White and blue: this elegant, understated livery is also the colour scheme chosen for the full-scale model of the car
• Orange and blue: inspired by the Alpine A450, two-time European Endurance Champion
• Matt black: in true gamer style

“The design needed to contribute to the lightweight feel and convey an impression to the driver of being at one with the machine. The Alpine Vision Gran Turismo features the brand’s timeless hallmark agility and elegance borne out of efficiency and ingenuity. We even took advantage of the exercise to subtly conceal several details that are directly inspired by the future Alpine which will see the light in 2016 – but I can’t give any more away about that...”

Antony Villain, Design Director, Alpine

A CAR THAT’S FUN FOR ALL PLAYERS!

The Alpine Vision Gran Turismo might be a virtual machine, but it was nonetheless duty-bound to adopt driving dynamics and handling characteristics worthy of its glorious predecessors. Terry Baillon, a simulation and chassis development engineer for the forthcoming road-going model, explains the development process.

What did your work on this project consist of?

“Right from the outset, we set performance and handling targets for the Alpine Vision Gran Turismo. We then transcribed them into technical characteristics, with the objective of achieving driving dynamics for players that are as close as possible to what we envisioned back at the start – exactly as we would do for a real vehicle.”

What dynamic characteristics have you instilled in the Alpine Vision Gran Turismo?

“This virtual concept car bridges the gap between the Alpine A450 race car and the 21^st Century Berlinette. It was important to define this vehicle by imbuing it with the true Alpine genes. In terms of performance, it slots between the LM P2 endurance racing prototype and our forthcoming sportscar. If you look carefully, you may discern some of the handling characteristics of our future road-going model, while at the same time retaining features specific to the prototypes that compete at Le Mans.”

How would you summarise the car’s characteristics?

“A sense of lightness, I would say. The car is lightweight – that was our starting point in its design. However, looking beyond the figures, we focused and worked hard on the sensations that it could inspire. The Alpine Vision Gran Turismo feels agile, responsive and fun – in other words, a true Alpine!”

What is the recipe for faithfully replicating realistic driving dynamics and performance in a ‘virtual’ machine in a video game?

“We worked on the Alpine Vision Gran Turismo much like we would work on a road car. From the beginning of its development, we modelled it using our own software. Once the car was ready, we sent all of our data to Polyphony Digital. The data had to define the desired dynamics of the car and the sensations that we wanted the driver to feel. Next, the gaming specialists integrated the characteristics of our Alpine into Gran Turismo. After that, testing could begin. Not dissimilar to the manner in which we would develop a road car, by running with vehicles that we call ‘test mules’, we chalked up the kilometres – in this case in front of a screen – to gain a feel for and refine the car’s performance and handling. This was the fine-tuning phase, before the final version was submitted.”

What will you take away from this project?

“There is genuine value in working this way. In my opinion, there is a bright future for this sort of collaboration. If we correlate the information we glean from both Gran Turismo and the real vehicle, further developments will become possible. Our objective is to offer a car whose dynamics match those that we initially defined. If everything is modelled perfectly, we can even continue to work on the car and compare it to other models, so that we can see where we stand!”

Out of interest, what type of player are you?

“I’ve spent hours playing. For me, Gran Turismo offers the best simulation and is the most well-known and most highly-acclaimed game. My only regret is no longer having enough time to continue racking up the laps!”

THE VISION TAKES FORM

“It’s such a beautiful car that it would be great to see it in the flesh!” What was intended as little more than a quip was taken on board by Alpine and, once the digital version was completed, attention turned to producing a real-life version of the Alpine Vision Gran Turismo.

A double composite shell was produced to give form to the concept car which was no longer merely ‘virtual’ any more. Since the bodywork also reveals the technical elements that lie beneath, significant work also went into incorporating the different assemblies, including the suspension. Similarly, the cockpit’s design called for particular care and upholsterers were called in to produce a bucket seat with visible stitching.

The full-scale version of the Alpine Vision Gran Turismo immediately impresses through its unusual proportions, while visibility from behind the wheel is perfect with nothing in the line of sight.

The Alpine Vision Gran Turismo will be seen for the first time at this year’s Festival Automobile International in Paris, France. For 30 years, this yearly gathering of experts in the fields of aesthetics and automotive excellence has presented a number of special awards, including one for the Plus Belle Voiture de l’Année (Most Beautiful Car of the Year). After its unveiling during the gala evening at the French capital’s Hôtel des Invalides on Tuesday, 27^th January, the car will remain on display at the Festival until 1^st February.

After that, it will be exhibited at the 2015 Rétromobile Show (4-8^th February) at the Porte de Versailles, Paris, where celebrations of Alpine’s 60^th anniversary will kick off in earnest.

HOW TO ACQUIRE THE ALPINE VISION GRAN TURISMO…

The Alpine Vision Gran Turismo will be made available as part of a free update of Gran Turismo®6 for PlayStation®3 in March 2015. To discover the car, players will select ‘Vision GT’ on the ‘My Home’ page.

After choosing the body colour, you will be able to admire your acquisition in full-screen mode, along with a detailed description. It will also be possible to view videos and sketches starring the Alpine Vision Gran Turismo before you take part in your first race…

TECHNICAL DATA

CHASSIS

Type: carbon monocoque

Suspension: double wishbones, pushrods, adjustable spring/damper assemblies

ENGINE

Position: mid-rear

Type: V8

Cubic capacity: 4,494cc

Maximum power: 450hp at 6,500rpm

Maximum torque: 580Nm at 2,000rpm

Maximum engine speed: 7,500rpm

Top speed: 320kph

TRANSMISSION

Seven-speed sequential gearbox

Rear-wheel drive

BRAKES

Front: 390mm x 32mm vented discs with six-pot callipers

Rear: 355mm x 32mm vented discs with four-pot callipers

WEIGHT AND CAPACITIES

Weight: 900kg

Weight distribution: 47 / 53

Fuel tank: 75 litres