Have you always thought automated cars were a thing of science-fiction? Think again. Mercedes-Benz has revealed its new S 500 Intelligent Drive prototype, which is capable of driving all by itself. It’s no secret that Mercedes-Benz has been developing autonomous vehicle driving technologies for some time. The latest prototype showcases […]
Technology
ZF & Levant Power invent regenerative suspension technology
You’ve probably heard of regenerative braking technology, whereby energy created from deceleration is captured and stored for electrical charge. Two companies – ZF and Levant Power – have revealed they are developing a world-first regenerative suspension system. Each time you drive your car the suspension, mainly the dampers and springs, […]
Jatco to improve CVT efficiency and driving feel
Jatco, a Japanese transmission company which is partly owned by Nissan, has plans to increase efficiency with CVT transmissions, and make them more appealing to drivers. Continuously variable transmissions (CVT) are currently very popular in Japan. Locally, they aren’t so popular due to their inherently boring ‘rubber band’ character. Jatco […]
Mercedes-Benz debuts ‘9G-TRONIC’ nine-speed auto transmission
Mercedes-Benz has debuted the world’s first nine-speed automatic transmission for a mainstream production passenger car, in the new E 350 BlueTEC. The new model is set to be the most fuel-efficient six-cylinder diesel in its class, partly thanks to the ‘9G-TRONIC’ unit. Called the 9G-TRONIC, the new transmission is standard […]
Ford Focus ST gets Emergency Assistance system via SYNC
Ford Australia has introduced the company’s latest Emergency Assistance program for the Ford Focus ST hot hatch. The program utilises the Ford SYNC on-board interface and makes it easier to get in contact with emergency services in the event of an accident. The system works by communicating with on-board sensors. […]
Volkswagen Golf Mk7 getting carbon fibre roof option – report
Performance and sporty variants of the new 2013 Volkswagen Golf Mk7 are set to come with a carbon fibre roof option, at least in overseas markets. The lightweight roof is expected to bring slight improvements in performance and handling. According to an Edmunds.com report in the US, Volkswagen research and […]
Volkswagen 10-speed DSG auto, 100kW/litre TDI technologies coming
In a fight to cut down emissions and fuel consumption, Volkswagen has announced it is working on new 10-speed DSG auto transmission and a new high-output turbo-diesel engine family. The company also has its sights set on plug-in hybrid, full electric and natural gas technologies. Speaking at the Vienna Motor […]
CDC International offers carbon fibre roof conversions
Like us, do you have strong obsession for all things carbon fibre? A company called CDC International is announcing it can do carbon fibre roof conversions for almost any vehicle. Some sports cars come straight from the factory with carbon fibre roofs, such as the BMW M3, and of course […]