90 hp, 7,280 cc SOHC inline six-cylinder engine, four-speed manual transmission, live axle suspension with semi-elliptic leaf springs, and four-wheel mechanical drum brakes. Wheelbase: 98.4"

- An important Mercedes model; one of only a handful in existence

- Restoration completed by John Griffith and Gene Smyers during the early 1990s

- Owned by some of the earliest and most noted automotive collectors in the U.S.

- Handsome in presentation, highly equipped, abundant power for touring

One of the last of the magnificent Mercedes models introduced before the merger between Daimler and Benz, the 28/95 stands as one of the most powerful and sporting of all post-WWI automobiles and the precursor to the immortal S, SS, SSK and SSKL models of the late 1920s. A short-chassis 28/95 Mercedes was driven by Max Sailer to win the Coppa Florio and to second place in the concurrent Targa Florio, conclusively establishing the model’s sporting credentials.

Powered by an inline six-cylinder engine tracing its design heritage to Daimler’s DF80 aircraft engine of WWI, the 28/95 initiated the transition from the somewhat rudimentary automobiles of the prewar period to far more refined and sophisticated design statements. In particular, the exposed valve gear of the DF80, with its lubricant splatter and noisy valvetrain, was replaced with a fully enclosed, shaft-and-bevel gear driven camshaft and valves tucked neatly within cast-aluminum housings for each of the three pairs of cylinder castings joined to a large aluminum crankcase. Mercedes’ engineers also showed an unusual (for the time) appreciation for free breathing, giving the normally aspirated 28/95 two carburetors and individual intake passages to each cylinder.

The chassis was typical of the period but robustly constructed, so Mercedes owners could use their 28/95s in any possible situation and with a wide selection of coachwork. The drive to the rear axle was through a shaft, while semi-elliptic leaf springs and friction dampers controlled the live front and rear axles. While the earliest 28/95s had only rear-wheel brakes, Mercedes was quick to realize that the size and performance of these magnificent automobiles – plus the 28/95’s capacity for passengers and luggage – warranted the additional stopping power of four-wheel brakes, which were soon added to the 28/95’s specifications. Whether on colonial roads, European highways or urban boulevards, the Mercedes 28/95 was a sophisticated, fast, robust and powerful automobile of the finest quality, and its expense made it accessible only to the top tiers of society, who specified individual coachwork to suit their specific needs.

Even among the high-quality bespoke coachwork fitted to the Mercedes 28/95 chassis, the wonderful wooden Sport Phaeton body on chassis 27003 stands out. Constructed at Mercedes’ own coachworks at Sindelfingen, where the finest artisans, technicians and materials were employed to complement the mechanical excellence of the Mercedes chassis, the quality and distinctive appearance of this car’s coachwork makes a dramatic statement. Its flair complements the design of Mercedes’ sweeping “clamshell” front fenders and the myriad accoutrements that equip this Mercedes for just about any journey.

Previous records indicate that the first owner was in the UK, but its subsequent history is unknown until it joined the pioneering auto collection of Kirkland Gibson in Rhode Island. Both Gibson and his collecting colleague and partner George Waterman at one time owned Mercedes 28/95s. Gibson and Waterman could, and in fact did, own just about anything they wanted in the late 1930s and 1940s, when these classics were simply older cars in barns and carriage houses of New England. The fact that both of them chose to own Mercedes 28/95s is abundant evidence of the quality, style and innate appeal of these pieces of German automotive artistry.

From Gibson’s collection, 27003 was acquired by California collector Ben Moser, who took the first steps toward a restoration of the largely complete and original 28/95 Sport Phaeton. While still in the early stages of restoration, it was acquired by Edwin C. “Ted” Jameson, Jr., under whom John Griffith and Gene Smyers completed the work during the early 1990s.

While extensive, the restoration was aided by the remarkably preserved original wooden bodywork and metal body components, as evidenced by pre-restoration photos of the car. While the wooden coachwork was stripped and refinished, little wood replacement was necessary despite its age of some 70 years. The interior was re-trimmed and reupholstered by Vaughans of Greer, South Carolina. The comprehensive lighting, consisting of Bosch head and auxiliary lights, dual spotlights mounted on the windshield frame and cowl lights, needed only careful rewiring and refinishing. The wire wheels are fitted with stainless-steel spokes and black rims matching the car’s fenders and frame covers, while the maroon hood was refinished to a very high standard. All brightwork was re-plated. Despite the age of the restoration, the impression created by this Sport Phaeton remains immediate and compelling. It is a spectacular and well maintained motor car of the highest standards of construction, restoration, fit and finish.

Since completion, it has been sparingly used both by Ted Jameson and by the present owners, to whose extensive collection of fine antique and classic automobiles it was added in 2003. Owned by some of the most discerning collectors for over 60 years, it would be an important addition to any fine collection and one of only a handful known to exist with this coachwork. It is also complete with a spare set of hubcaps and fully equipped with weather equipment including a convertible top and top boot, plus front and rear tonneau covers. It is confirmed to be in proper running and driving order, and its “100 real horsepower,” according to restorer Gene Smyers, will ensure drivability on modern roads and provide a rewarding and exciting driving experience. Its offering at auction will also provide the new owner with an unparalleled opportunity to follow in the footsteps of some of the most noted automobile collectors by becoming its next and very fortunate caretaker.

[Text from RM Auctions]

www.rmsothebys.com/mo11/monterey/lots/1924-mercedes-28-95...

This Lego miniland-scale Daimler-Mercedes 28/95 Sports Phaeton - (1924 Sindelfingen) has been created for Flickr LUGNuts' 94th Build Challenge, - "Appease the Elves Summer Automobile Build-off (Part 2)", - a design challenge combining the resources of LUGNuts, TheLegoCarBlog (TLCB) and Head Turnerz.

Gotta still have some functions, right?

The BMW i8, first introduced as the BMW Concept Vision Efficient Dynamics, is a plug-in hybrid sports car developed by BMW. The 2015 model year BMW i8 has a 7.1 kWh lithium-ion battery pack that delivers an all-electric range of 37 km (23 mi) under the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC).[5] Under the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) cycle, the range in EV mode is 24 km (15 mi) with a small amount of gasoline consumption.

The BMW i8 can go from 0–100 km/h (0 to 60 mph) in 4.4 seconds and has a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph). The BMW i8 has a fuel efficiency of 2.1 L/100 km (134.5 mpg-imp; 112.0 mpg-US) under the NEDC test with carbon emissions of 49 g/km. EPA rated the i8 combined fuel economy at 76 equivalent (MPG-equivalent) (3.1 L gasoline equivalent/100 km; 91 mpg-imp gasoline equivalent).

The initial turbodiesel concept car was unveiled at the 2009 International Motor Show Germany. The production version of the BMW i8 was unveiled at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show. The i8 was released in Germany in June 2014. Deliveries to retail customers in the U.S. began in August 2014. Global cumulative sales totaled almost 4,500 units through June 2015.

History

The i8 is part of BMW's "Project i" and it is being marketed as a new brand, BMW i, sold separately from BMW or Mini. The BMW i3, launched for retail customers in Europe in the fourth quarter of 2013, was the first model of the i brand available in the market, and it was followed by the i8, released in Germany in June 2014 as a 2015 model year. Other i models are expected to follow.

The initial turbodiesel concept car was unveiled at the 2009 International Motor Show Germany, In 2010, BMW announced the mass production of the Concept Vision Efficient Dynamics in Leipzig beginning in 2013 as the BMW i8. The BMW i8 gasoline-powered concept car destined for production was unveiled at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show. The production version of the BMW i8 was unveiled at the 2013 International Motor Show Germany. The following are the concept and pre-production models developed by BMW that precedeed the production version.

BMW Vision EfficientDynamics (2009)

BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept car is a plug-in hybrid with a three cylinder turbodiesel engine. Additionally, there are two electric motors with 139 horsepower. It allows an acceleration to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.8 seconds and an electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h (160 mph).

According to BMW, the average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle (KV01) is 3.76 liters/100 kilometers, (75.1 mpg imp), and has a carbon dioxide emission rating of 99 grams per kilometer (1,3 l/100 km and 33g CO2/km ; EU-PHEV ECE-R101). The estimated all-electric range is 50 km (31 mi), and the 24-liter petrol tank extends the total vehicle range to up to 700 km (430 mi). The lightweight chassis is made mainly from aluminum. The windshield, top, doors and fenders are made from polycarbonate glass, with the body having a drag coefficient of 0.26.

The designers in charge of the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics Concept were Mario Majdandzic, Exterior Design and Jochen Paesen, Interior Design.

The vehicle was unveiled in 2009 International Motor Show Germany, followed by Auto China 2010.

BMW i8 Concept (2011)

BMW i8 Concept plug-in hybrid electric vehicle includes an electric motor located in the front axle powering the front wheels rated 96 kW (131 PS; 129 hp) and 250 N·m (184 lb·ft), a turbocharged 1.5-liter 3-cylinder gasoline engine driving rear wheels rated 164 kW (223 PS; 220 hp) and 300 N·m (221 lb·ft) of torque, with combined output of 260 kW (354 PS; 349 hp) and 550 N·m (406 lb·ft), a 7.2 kWh (26 MJ) lithium-ion battery pack that allows an all-electric range of 35 km (22 mi). All four wheels provide regenerative braking. The location of the battery pack in the energy tunnel gives the vehicle a low centre of gravity, enhancing its dynamics. Its top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h (160 mph) and is expected to go from 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 60 mph) in 4.6 seconds. Under normal driving conditions the i8 is expected to deliver 80 mpg-US (2.9 L/100 km; 96 mpg-imp) under the European cycle. A full charge of the battery will take less than 2 hours using 220V. The positioning of the motor and engine over the axles results in optimum 50/50 weight distribution.

The vehicle was unveiled at the 2011 International Motor Show Germany, followed by CENTER 548 in New York City, 42nd Tokyo Motor Show 2011, 82nd Geneva Motor Show 2012, BMW i Born Electric Tour at the Palazzo delle Esposizioni at Via Nazionale 194 in Rome, Auto Shanghai 2013.

This concept car was featured in the film Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol.

BMW i8 Concept Spyder (2012)

The BMW i8 Concept Spyder included a slightly shorter wheelbase and overall length over the BMW i8 Concept, carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) Life module, drive modules made primarily from aluminium components, interlocking of surfaces and lines, 8.8-inch (22.4 cm) screen display, off-white outer layer, orange tone naturally tanned leather upholstery.

The vehicle was unveiled in Auto China 2012 in Beijing and won Concept Car of the Year, followed by 83rd Geneva International Motor Show 2013.

The designer of the BMW i8 Concept Spyder was Richard Kim.

BMW i8 coupe prototype (2013)

The design of the BMW i8 coupe prototype was based on the BMW i8 Concept. The BMW i8 prototype has an average fuel efficiency of less than 2.5 L/100 km (113.0 mpg-imp; 94.1 mpg-US) under the New European Driving Cycle with carbon emissions of less than 59 g/km. The i8 with its carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP) passenger cell lightweight, aerodynamically optimized body, and BMW eDrive technology offers the dynamic performance of a sports car, with an expected 0–100 km (0–60 mi) sprint time of less than 4.5 seconds using both power sources. The plug-in hybrid system of the BMW i8 comprises a three-cylinder, 1.5-liter BMW TwinPower turbo gasoline engine combined with BMW eDrive technology used in the BMW i3 and develops maximum power of 170 kW (230 hp). The BMW i8 is the first BMW production model to be powered by a three-cylinder gasoline engine and the resulting specific output of 115 kW (154 hp) per liter of displacement is on a par with high-performance sports car engines and is the highest of any engine produced by the BMW Group.

The BMW i8's second power source is a hybrid synchronous electric motor specially developed and produced by the BMW Group for BMW i. The electric motor develops maximum power of 131 hp (96 kW) and produces its maximum torque of around 320 N·m (240 lbf·ft) from standstill. Typical of an electric motor, responsive power is instantly available when starting and this continues into the higher load ranges. As well as providing a power boost to assist the gasoline engine during acceleration, the electric motor can also power the vehicle by itself. Top speed in electric mode is approximately 120 km/h (75 mph), with a maximum driving range of up to 35 km (22 mi). Linear acceleration is maintained even at higher speeds since the interplay between the two power sources efficiently absorbs any power flow interruptions when shifting gears. The BMW i8 has an electronically controlled top speed of 250 km (160 mi), which can be reached and maintained when the vehicle operates solely on the gasoline engine. The model-specific version of the high-voltage 7.2 lithium-ion battery has a liquid cooling system and can be recharged at a conventional household power socket, at a BMW i Wallbox or at a public charging station. In the US a full recharge takes approximately 3.5 hours from a conventional 120V, 12 amp household circuit or approximately 1.5 hours from a 220V Level 2 charger.

The driver can also select several driving modes: SPORT, COMFORT and ECO PRO. Using the gear selector, the driver can either select position D for automated gear selection or can switch to SPORT mode. SPORT mode offers manual gear selection and at the same time switches to very sporty drive and suspension settings. In SPORT mode, the engine and electric motor deliver extra performance, accelerator response is faster and the power boost from the electric motor is maximized. And to keep the battery topped up, SPORT mode also activates maximum energy recuperation during overrun and braking as the electric motor’s generator function, which recharges the battery using kinetic energy, switches to a more powerful setting. The Driving Experience Control switch on the center console offers a choice of two settings. On starting, COMFORT mode is activated, which offers a balance between sporty performance and fuel efficiency, with unrestricted access to all convenience functions. Alternatively, the ECO PRO mode can be engaged, which, on the BMW i8 as on other models, supports an efficiency-optimized driving style. On this mode the powertrain controller coordinates the cooperation between the gasoline engine and the electric motor for maximum fuel economy. On deceleration, the intelligent energy management system automatically decides, in line with the driving situation and vehicle status, whether to recuperate braking energy or to coast with the powertrain disengaged. At the same time, ECO PRO mode also programs electrical convenience functions such as the air conditioning, seat heating and heated mirrors to operate at minimum power consumption, but without compromising safety. The maximum driving range of the BMW i8 on a full fuel tank and with a fully charged battery is more than 500 km (310 mi) in COMFORT mode, which can be increased by up to 20% in ECO PRO mode. The BMW i8’s ECO PRO mode can also be used during all-electric operation. The vehicle is then powered solely by the electric motor. Only if the battery charge drops below a given level, or under sudden intense throttle application such as kickdown, is the internal combustion engine automatically activated.

The vehicle was unveiled in BMW Group's Miramas test track in France.

Production version

The production BMW i8 was designed by Benoit Jacob. The production version was unveiled at the 2013 International Motor Show Germany, followed by 2013 Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez. It features butterfly doors, head-up display, rear-view cameras and partially false engine noise. Series production of customer vehicles began in April 2014. It is the first production car with laser headlights, reaching further than LED lights.

The i8 has a low vehicle weight of 1,485 kg (3,274 lb) (DIN kerb weight) and a low drag coefficient (Cd) of 0.26. In all-electric mode the BMW i8 has a top speed of 120 km/h (75 mph). In Sport mode the i8 delivers a mid-range acceleration from 80 to 120 km/h (50 to 75 mph) in 2.6 seconds. The electronically controlled top speed is 250 km/h (160 mph).

Range and fuel economy[edit]

The production i8 has a 7.1 kWh lithium-ion battery pack with a usable capacity of 5.2 kWh and intelligent energy management that delivers an all-electric range of 37 km (23 mi) under the NEDC cycle. Under the EPA cycle, the range in EV mode is 15 mi (24 km), with a gasoline consumption of 0.1 gallons per 100 mi, and as a result, EPA's all-electric range is zero. The total range is 330 mi (530 km).

The production version has a fuel efficiency of 2.1 L/100 km (134.5 mpg-imp; 112.0 mpg-US) under the NEDC test with carbon emissions of 49 g/km.[5] Under EPA cycle, the i8 combined fuel economy in EV mode was rated 76 equivalent (MPG-equivalent) (3.1 L gasoline equivalent/100 km; 91 mpg-imp gasoline equivalent), with an energy consumption of 43 kW-hrs/100 mi and gasoline consumption of 0.1 gal-US/100 mi. The combined fuel economy when running only with gasoline is 28 mpg-US (8.4 L/100 km; 34 mpg-imp), 28 mpg-US (8.4 L/100 km; 34 mpg-imp) for city driving, and 29 mpg-US (8.1 L/100 km; 35 mpg-imp) in highway.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's 2014 edition of the "Light-Duty Automotive Technology, Carbon Dioxide Emissions, and Fuel Economy Trends" introduced utility factors for plug-in hybrids to represent the percentage of miles that will be driven using electricity by an average driver, in electric only or blended modes. The BMW i8 has a utility factor in EV mode of 37%, compared with 83% for the BMW i3 REx, 66% for the Chevrolet Volt, 65% for the Cadillac ELR, 45% for the Ford Energi models, 43% for the McLaren P1, 39% for the Porsche Panamera S E-Hybrid, and 29% for the Toyota Prius PHV.

[Text from Wikipedia]

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_i8

This Lego miniland-scale BMW i8 has been created for Flickr LUGNuts' 94th Build Challenge, - "Appease the Elves Summer Automobile Build-off (Part 2)", - a design challenge combining the resources of LUGNuts, TheLegoCarBlog (TLCB) and Head Turnerz.

Ford GT - Second generation (2016-)

Overview:

ManufacturerFord Motor Company

Production2016 (planned)

Model years2017 (planned)

AssemblyMarkham, Ontario, Canada

Body and chassis

ClassSports car

Body style2-door coupé

LayoutRMR

Powertrain

Engine3.5 L EcoBoost V6 twin-turbo

Transmission7-speed semi-automatic transmission

At the 2015 North American International Auto Show, a new Ford GT was introduced and is set to be produced and released in 2016. It will mark 50 years since the GT40 won the 1966 24 Hours of Le Mans and is expected to run in the 2016 24 Hours of Le Mans to mark the anniversary.

The car is to be powered by a newly designed 3.5 litre twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V6 engine making "more than 600 horsepower." A 0-60 time of around 3 seconds is expected as well as a top speed greater than 200 mph. According to Ford, "the GT will exhibit one of the best power-to-weight ratios of any production car," thanks to its lightweight carbon fiber construction. Underpinning the GT is a carbon fiber monocoque bolted to aluminum front and rear subframes covered in carbon fiber body panels. The car also has racing inspired pushrod suspension, active aerodynamics, and dihedral doors.

Ford plans to build only 250 examples of the GT over the course of several years, with each costing around $400,000.

2016 Ford GT LeMans Racer

It's official! This is the Ford GT that will race at Le Mans in 2016!

Ford will bring this racer to the Le Mans grid in 2016, to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the company's 1-2-3 victory at the famous race in 1966. The Blue Oval continued to win at Le Mans in 1967, '68, and '69.

Ford says the 2016 car will run the full FIA World Endurance Championship and TUDOR United SportsCar Championship schedule next year, beginning with the Rolex 24 at Daytona in January, and leading up to a four-car effort at Le Mans in 2016. The Ford teams will be operated by Chip Ganassi Racing with Felix Sabates.

"As we developed the Ford GT, from the outset, we wanted to ensure we had a car that has what it takes to return Ford to the world of GT racing," said Raj Nair, Ford's Vice President of Global Product Development and chief technical officer. "We believe the Ford GT's advances in aerodynamics, light-weighting and EcoBoost power will make for a compelling race car that can once again compete on a global stage."

The 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 that powers the racer has been undergoing racing development since 2014, when it debuted in the TUDOR United SportsCar Championship. The engine has also scored victories at the 12 Hours of Sebring and the Rolex 24 at Daytona.

"We've won races and championships, but we've never run Le Mans," said team owner Chip Ganassi in a Ford press statement. "When presented the opportunity to compete with the all-new Ford GT on the world's biggest sports car stage, and on the 50th anniversary of one of the most storied victories in racing history, how could any race team not want to be part of that?

Our man at Le Mans, Marshall Pruett, also caught up with Chip Ganassi and IMSA President Scott Atherton after the official reveal. Here's what they had to say about the new Ford GT racer:

[Text from Wikipedia and Road & Track]

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ford_GT

www.roadandtrack.com/motorsports/news/a25892/the-ford-gt-...

This Lego miniland-scale Ford GT LeMans 2016 has been created for Flickr LUGNuts' 94th Build Challenge, - "Appease the Elves Summer Automobile Build-off (Part 2)", - a design challenge combining the resources of LUGNuts, TheLegoCarBlog (TLCB) and Head Turnerz.

2JZ engine

This is a modification of my hot rod pickup. It still has everything that you might like (motorized/remotely controlled driving/steering, lights, turn signals, working steering wheel, working V8 and radiator fan, working door handles, gearbox…) and some new features (wheels, suspension, engine, roof, front lights, interior, fuel tank, movable license plate, chrome details…). Like the old one, it is 50 studs long and 28 studs wide but it is heavier - it weighs 1285g.

VIDEO: youtu.be/jR0rCEck7_0

Characteristics:

-Leaf spring suspension with height-adjustable rear

-License plate with simple mechanism to hide it (manual)

-Lights (front and rear) manually controlled with a lever connected to a speed dial of 8878 battery (which allows you to switch between low and high beam)

-Turn signals (front and rear) connected to a servo motor via coupled PF switches (2 switches)

-Working steering wheel

-Manual gearbox – 4 gears (5:1, 3:1, 5:3, 1:1)

-Suicide doors with working door handles

-It is powered by two L motors and 7.4 V (8878) rechargeable battery box.

-Servo motor for steering

-Working V8 fake engine with some details to make it resemble real V8 engine, connected directly to the driving motors so it works at the same speed no matter what gear you choose (in neutral also)

-Working radiator fan, connected directly to a V8 engine

-Rear doors can be opened.

-Roof window, fire extinguisher, fuel tank…

-Front tires from 8070 supercar, and rear from 42000 Grand Prix Racer.

I hope you like it, feel free to comment…

p.s. it has been blogged: thelegocarblog.com/2014/07/03/rod-mod/

Orange 6 was a pure-bred, high speed racing machine. It was capable both of atmospheric and space flight. The ship could dodge, dart and blast its way past its opponents.

The Lego Car Blog has written a brilliant story about this and my other recent racer, Green 21. Definitely worth a visit! thelegocarblog.com/2024/05/17/space-race-5/

There are some alternative images available on Instagram: www.instagram.com/p/C7E0xG1itLE/

The BMW i8, first introduced as the BMW Concept Vision Efficient Dynamics, is a plug-in hybrid sports car developed by BMW. The 2015 model year BMW i8 has a 7.1 kWh lithium-ion battery pack that delivers an all-electric range of 37 km (23 mi) under the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC).[5] Under the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) cycle, the range in EV mode is 24 km (15 mi) with a small amount of gasoline consumption.

The BMW i8 can go from 0–100 km/h (0 to 60 mph) in 4.4 seconds and has a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph). The BMW i8 has a fuel efficiency of 2.1 L/100 km (134.5 mpg-imp; 112.0 mpg-US) under the NEDC test with carbon emissions of 49 g/km. EPA rated the i8 combined fuel economy at 76 equivalent (MPG-equivalent) (3.1 L gasoline equivalent/100 km; 91 mpg-imp gasoline equivalent).

The initial turbodiesel concept car was unveiled at the 2009 International Motor Show Germany. The production version of the BMW i8 was unveiled at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show. The i8 was released in Germany in June 2014. Deliveries to retail customers in the U.S. began in August 2014. Global cumulative sales totaled almost 4,500 units through June 2015.

History

The i8 is part of BMW's "Project i" and it is being marketed as a new brand, BMW i, sold separately from BMW or Mini. The BMW i3, launched for retail customers in Europe in the fourth quarter of 2013, was the first model of the i brand available in the market, and it was followed by the i8, released in Germany in June 2014 as a 2015 model year. Other i models are expected to follow.

The initial turbodiesel concept car was unveiled at the 2009 International Motor Show Germany, In 2010, BMW announced the mass production of the Concept Vision Efficient Dynamics in Leipzig beginning in 2013 as the BMW i8. The BMW i8 gasoline-powered concept car destined for production was unveiled at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show. The production version of the BMW i8 was unveiled at the 2013 International Motor Show Germany. The following are the concept and pre-production models developed by BMW that precedeed the production version.

BMW Vision EfficientDynamics (2009)

BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept car is a plug-in hybrid with a three cylinder turbodiesel engine. Additionally, there are two electric motors with 139 horsepower. It allows an acceleration to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.8 seconds and an electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h (160 mph).

According to BMW, the average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle (KV01) is 3.76 liters/100 kilometers, (75.1 mpg imp), and has a carbon dioxide emission rating of 99 grams per kilometer (1,3 l/100 km and 33g CO2/km ; EU-PHEV ECE-R101). The estimated all-electric range is 50 km (31 mi), and the 24-liter petrol tank extends the total vehicle range to up to 700 km (430 mi). The lightweight chassis is made mainly from aluminum. The windshield, top, doors and fenders are made from polycarbonate glass, with the body having a drag coefficient of 0.26.

The designers in charge of the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics Concept were Mario Majdandzic, Exterior Design and Jochen Paesen, Interior Design.

The vehicle was unveiled in 2009 International Motor Show Germany, followed by Auto China 2010.

BMW i8 Concept (2011)

BMW i8 Concept plug-in hybrid electric vehicle includes an electric motor located in the front axle powering the front wheels rated 96 kW (131 PS; 129 hp) and 250 N·m (184 lb·ft), a turbocharged 1.5-liter 3-cylinder gasoline engine driving rear wheels rated 164 kW (223 PS; 220 hp) and 300 N·m (221 lb·ft) of torque, with combined output of 260 kW (354 PS; 349 hp) and 550 N·m (406 lb·ft), a 7.2 kWh (26 MJ) lithium-ion battery pack that allows an all-electric range of 35 km (22 mi). All four wheels provide regenerative braking. The location of the battery pack in the energy tunnel gives the vehicle a low centre of gravity, enhancing its dynamics. Its top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h (160 mph) and is expected to go from 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 60 mph) in 4.6 seconds. Under normal driving conditions the i8 is expected to deliver 80 mpg-US (2.9 L/100 km; 96 mpg-imp) under the European cycle. A full charge of the battery will take less than 2 hours using 220V. The positioning of the motor and engine over the axles results in optimum 50/50 weight distribution.

The vehicle was unveiled at the 2011 International Motor Show Germany, followed by CENTER 548 in New York City, 42nd Tokyo Motor Show 2011, 82nd Geneva Motor Show 2012, BMW i Born Electric Tour at the Palazzo delle Esposizioni at Via Nazionale 194 in Rome, Auto Shanghai 2013.

This concept car was featured in the film Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol.

BMW i8 Concept Spyder (2012)

The BMW i8 Concept Spyder included a slightly shorter wheelbase and overall length over the BMW i8 Concept, carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) Life module, drive modules made primarily from aluminium components, interlocking of surfaces and lines, 8.8-inch (22.4 cm) screen display, off-white outer layer, orange tone naturally tanned leather upholstery.

The vehicle was unveiled in Auto China 2012 in Beijing and won Concept Car of the Year, followed by 83rd Geneva International Motor Show 2013.

The designer of the BMW i8 Concept Spyder was Richard Kim.

BMW i8 coupe prototype (2013)

The design of the BMW i8 coupe prototype was based on the BMW i8 Concept. The BMW i8 prototype has an average fuel efficiency of less than 2.5 L/100 km (113.0 mpg-imp; 94.1 mpg-US) under the New European Driving Cycle with carbon emissions of less than 59 g/km. The i8 with its carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP) passenger cell lightweight, aerodynamically optimized body, and BMW eDrive technology offers the dynamic performance of a sports car, with an expected 0–100 km (0–60 mi) sprint time of less than 4.5 seconds using both power sources. The plug-in hybrid system of the BMW i8 comprises a three-cylinder, 1.5-liter BMW TwinPower turbo gasoline engine combined with BMW eDrive technology used in the BMW i3 and develops maximum power of 170 kW (230 hp). The BMW i8 is the first BMW production model to be powered by a three-cylinder gasoline engine and the resulting specific output of 115 kW (154 hp) per liter of displacement is on a par with high-performance sports car engines and is the highest of any engine produced by the BMW Group.

The BMW i8's second power source is a hybrid synchronous electric motor specially developed and produced by the BMW Group for BMW i. The electric motor develops maximum power of 131 hp (96 kW) and produces its maximum torque of around 320 N·m (240 lbf·ft) from standstill. Typical of an electric motor, responsive power is instantly available when starting and this continues into the higher load ranges. As well as providing a power boost to assist the gasoline engine during acceleration, the electric motor can also power the vehicle by itself. Top speed in electric mode is approximately 120 km/h (75 mph), with a maximum driving range of up to 35 km (22 mi). Linear acceleration is maintained even at higher speeds since the interplay between the two power sources efficiently absorbs any power flow interruptions when shifting gears. The BMW i8 has an electronically controlled top speed of 250 km (160 mi), which can be reached and maintained when the vehicle operates solely on the gasoline engine. The model-specific version of the high-voltage 7.2 lithium-ion battery has a liquid cooling system and can be recharged at a conventional household power socket, at a BMW i Wallbox or at a public charging station. In the US a full recharge takes approximately 3.5 hours from a conventional 120V, 12 amp household circuit or approximately 1.5 hours from a 220V Level 2 charger.

The driver can also select several driving modes: SPORT, COMFORT and ECO PRO. Using the gear selector, the driver can either select position D for automated gear selection or can switch to SPORT mode. SPORT mode offers manual gear selection and at the same time switches to very sporty drive and suspension settings. In SPORT mode, the engine and electric motor deliver extra performance, accelerator response is faster and the power boost from the electric motor is maximized. And to keep the battery topped up, SPORT mode also activates maximum energy recuperation during overrun and braking as the electric motor’s generator function, which recharges the battery using kinetic energy, switches to a more powerful setting. The Driving Experience Control switch on the center console offers a choice of two settings. On starting, COMFORT mode is activated, which offers a balance between sporty performance and fuel efficiency, with unrestricted access to all convenience functions. Alternatively, the ECO PRO mode can be engaged, which, on the BMW i8 as on other models, supports an efficiency-optimized driving style. On this mode the powertrain controller coordinates the cooperation between the gasoline engine and the electric motor for maximum fuel economy. On deceleration, the intelligent energy management system automatically decides, in line with the driving situation and vehicle status, whether to recuperate braking energy or to coast with the powertrain disengaged. At the same time, ECO PRO mode also programs electrical convenience functions such as the air conditioning, seat heating and heated mirrors to operate at minimum power consumption, but without compromising safety. The maximum driving range of the BMW i8 on a full fuel tank and with a fully charged battery is more than 500 km (310 mi) in COMFORT mode, which can be increased by up to 20% in ECO PRO mode. The BMW i8’s ECO PRO mode can also be used during all-electric operation. The vehicle is then powered solely by the electric motor. Only if the battery charge drops below a given level, or under sudden intense throttle application such as kickdown, is the internal combustion engine automatically activated.

The vehicle was unveiled in BMW Group's Miramas test track in France.

Production version

The production BMW i8 was designed by Benoit Jacob. The production version was unveiled at the 2013 International Motor Show Germany, followed by 2013 Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez. It features butterfly doors, head-up display, rear-view cameras and partially false engine noise. Series production of customer vehicles began in April 2014. It is the first production car with laser headlights, reaching further than LED lights.

The i8 has a low vehicle weight of 1,485 kg (3,274 lb) (DIN kerb weight) and a low drag coefficient (Cd) of 0.26. In all-electric mode the BMW i8 has a top speed of 120 km/h (75 mph). In Sport mode the i8 delivers a mid-range acceleration from 80 to 120 km/h (50 to 75 mph) in 2.6 seconds. The electronically controlled top speed is 250 km/h (160 mph).

Range and fuel economy[edit]

The production i8 has a 7.1 kWh lithium-ion battery pack with a usable capacity of 5.2 kWh and intelligent energy management that delivers an all-electric range of 37 km (23 mi) under the NEDC cycle. Under the EPA cycle, the range in EV mode is 15 mi (24 km), with a gasoline consumption of 0.1 gallons per 100 mi, and as a result, EPA's all-electric range is zero. The total range is 330 mi (530 km).

The production version has a fuel efficiency of 2.1 L/100 km (134.5 mpg-imp; 112.0 mpg-US) under the NEDC test with carbon emissions of 49 g/km.[5] Under EPA cycle, the i8 combined fuel economy in EV mode was rated 76 equivalent (MPG-equivalent) (3.1 L gasoline equivalent/100 km; 91 mpg-imp gasoline equivalent), with an energy consumption of 43 kW-hrs/100 mi and gasoline consumption of 0.1 gal-US/100 mi. The combined fuel economy when running only with gasoline is 28 mpg-US (8.4 L/100 km; 34 mpg-imp), 28 mpg-US (8.4 L/100 km; 34 mpg-imp) for city driving, and 29 mpg-US (8.1 L/100 km; 35 mpg-imp) in highway.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's 2014 edition of the "Light-Duty Automotive Technology, Carbon Dioxide Emissions, and Fuel Economy Trends" introduced utility factors for plug-in hybrids to represent the percentage of miles that will be driven using electricity by an average driver, in electric only or blended modes. The BMW i8 has a utility factor in EV mode of 37%, compared with 83% for the BMW i3 REx, 66% for the Chevrolet Volt, 65% for the Cadillac ELR, 45% for the Ford Energi models, 43% for the McLaren P1, 39% for the Porsche Panamera S E-Hybrid, and 29% for the Toyota Prius PHV.

[Text from Wikipedia]

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_i8

This Lego miniland-scale BMW i8 has been created for Flickr LUGNuts' 94th Build Challenge, - "Appease the Elves Summer Automobile Build-off (Part 2)", - a design challenge combining the resources of LUGNuts, TheLegoCarBlog (TLCB) and Head Turnerz.

The BMW i8, first introduced as the BMW Concept Vision Efficient Dynamics, is a plug-in hybrid sports car developed by BMW. The 2015 model year BMW i8 has a 7.1 kWh lithium-ion battery pack that delivers an all-electric range of 37 km (23 mi) under the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC).[5] Under the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) cycle, the range in EV mode is 24 km (15 mi) with a small amount of gasoline consumption.

The BMW i8 can go from 0–100 km/h (0 to 60 mph) in 4.4 seconds and has a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph). The BMW i8 has a fuel efficiency of 2.1 L/100 km (134.5 mpg-imp; 112.0 mpg-US) under the NEDC test with carbon emissions of 49 g/km. EPA rated the i8 combined fuel economy at 76 equivalent (MPG-equivalent) (3.1 L gasoline equivalent/100 km; 91 mpg-imp gasoline equivalent).

The initial turbodiesel concept car was unveiled at the 2009 International Motor Show Germany. The production version of the BMW i8 was unveiled at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show. The i8 was released in Germany in June 2014. Deliveries to retail customers in the U.S. began in August 2014. Global cumulative sales totaled almost 4,500 units through June 2015.

History

The i8 is part of BMW's "Project i" and it is being marketed as a new brand, BMW i, sold separately from BMW or Mini. The BMW i3, launched for retail customers in Europe in the fourth quarter of 2013, was the first model of the i brand available in the market, and it was followed by the i8, released in Germany in June 2014 as a 2015 model year. Other i models are expected to follow.

The initial turbodiesel concept car was unveiled at the 2009 International Motor Show Germany, In 2010, BMW announced the mass production of the Concept Vision Efficient Dynamics in Leipzig beginning in 2013 as the BMW i8. The BMW i8 gasoline-powered concept car destined for production was unveiled at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show. The production version of the BMW i8 was unveiled at the 2013 International Motor Show Germany. The following are the concept and pre-production models developed by BMW that precedeed the production version.

BMW Vision EfficientDynamics (2009)

BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept car is a plug-in hybrid with a three cylinder turbodiesel engine. Additionally, there are two electric motors with 139 horsepower. It allows an acceleration to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.8 seconds and an electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h (160 mph).

According to BMW, the average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle (KV01) is 3.76 liters/100 kilometers, (75.1 mpg imp), and has a carbon dioxide emission rating of 99 grams per kilometer (1,3 l/100 km and 33g CO2/km ; EU-PHEV ECE-R101). The estimated all-electric range is 50 km (31 mi), and the 24-liter petrol tank extends the total vehicle range to up to 700 km (430 mi). The lightweight chassis is made mainly from aluminum. The windshield, top, doors and fenders are made from polycarbonate glass, with the body having a drag coefficient of 0.26.

The designers in charge of the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics Concept were Mario Majdandzic, Exterior Design and Jochen Paesen, Interior Design.

The vehicle was unveiled in 2009 International Motor Show Germany, followed by Auto China 2010.

BMW i8 Concept (2011)

BMW i8 Concept plug-in hybrid electric vehicle includes an electric motor located in the front axle powering the front wheels rated 96 kW (131 PS; 129 hp) and 250 N·m (184 lb·ft), a turbocharged 1.5-liter 3-cylinder gasoline engine driving rear wheels rated 164 kW (223 PS; 220 hp) and 300 N·m (221 lb·ft) of torque, with combined output of 260 kW (354 PS; 349 hp) and 550 N·m (406 lb·ft), a 7.2 kWh (26 MJ) lithium-ion battery pack that allows an all-electric range of 35 km (22 mi). All four wheels provide regenerative braking. The location of the battery pack in the energy tunnel gives the vehicle a low centre of gravity, enhancing its dynamics. Its top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h (160 mph) and is expected to go from 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 60 mph) in 4.6 seconds. Under normal driving conditions the i8 is expected to deliver 80 mpg-US (2.9 L/100 km; 96 mpg-imp) under the European cycle. A full charge of the battery will take less than 2 hours using 220V. The positioning of the motor and engine over the axles results in optimum 50/50 weight distribution.

The vehicle was unveiled at the 2011 International Motor Show Germany, followed by CENTER 548 in New York City, 42nd Tokyo Motor Show 2011, 82nd Geneva Motor Show 2012, BMW i Born Electric Tour at the Palazzo delle Esposizioni at Via Nazionale 194 in Rome, Auto Shanghai 2013.

This concept car was featured in the film Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol.

BMW i8 Concept Spyder (2012)

The BMW i8 Concept Spyder included a slightly shorter wheelbase and overall length over the BMW i8 Concept, carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) Life module, drive modules made primarily from aluminium components, interlocking of surfaces and lines, 8.8-inch (22.4 cm) screen display, off-white outer layer, orange tone naturally tanned leather upholstery.

The vehicle was unveiled in Auto China 2012 in Beijing and won Concept Car of the Year, followed by 83rd Geneva International Motor Show 2013.

The designer of the BMW i8 Concept Spyder was Richard Kim.

BMW i8 coupe prototype (2013)

The design of the BMW i8 coupe prototype was based on the BMW i8 Concept. The BMW i8 prototype has an average fuel efficiency of less than 2.5 L/100 km (113.0 mpg-imp; 94.1 mpg-US) under the New European Driving Cycle with carbon emissions of less than 59 g/km. The i8 with its carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP) passenger cell lightweight, aerodynamically optimized body, and BMW eDrive technology offers the dynamic performance of a sports car, with an expected 0–100 km (0–60 mi) sprint time of less than 4.5 seconds using both power sources. The plug-in hybrid system of the BMW i8 comprises a three-cylinder, 1.5-liter BMW TwinPower turbo gasoline engine combined with BMW eDrive technology used in the BMW i3 and develops maximum power of 170 kW (230 hp). The BMW i8 is the first BMW production model to be powered by a three-cylinder gasoline engine and the resulting specific output of 115 kW (154 hp) per liter of displacement is on a par with high-performance sports car engines and is the highest of any engine produced by the BMW Group.

The BMW i8's second power source is a hybrid synchronous electric motor specially developed and produced by the BMW Group for BMW i. The electric motor develops maximum power of 131 hp (96 kW) and produces its maximum torque of around 320 N·m (240 lbf·ft) from standstill. Typical of an electric motor, responsive power is instantly available when starting and this continues into the higher load ranges. As well as providing a power boost to assist the gasoline engine during acceleration, the electric motor can also power the vehicle by itself. Top speed in electric mode is approximately 120 km/h (75 mph), with a maximum driving range of up to 35 km (22 mi). Linear acceleration is maintained even at higher speeds since the interplay between the two power sources efficiently absorbs any power flow interruptions when shifting gears. The BMW i8 has an electronically controlled top speed of 250 km (160 mi), which can be reached and maintained when the vehicle operates solely on the gasoline engine. The model-specific version of the high-voltage 7.2 lithium-ion battery has a liquid cooling system and can be recharged at a conventional household power socket, at a BMW i Wallbox or at a public charging station. In the US a full recharge takes approximately 3.5 hours from a conventional 120V, 12 amp household circuit or approximately 1.5 hours from a 220V Level 2 charger.

The driver can also select several driving modes: SPORT, COMFORT and ECO PRO. Using the gear selector, the driver can either select position D for automated gear selection or can switch to SPORT mode. SPORT mode offers manual gear selection and at the same time switches to very sporty drive and suspension settings. In SPORT mode, the engine and electric motor deliver extra performance, accelerator response is faster and the power boost from the electric motor is maximized. And to keep the battery topped up, SPORT mode also activates maximum energy recuperation during overrun and braking as the electric motor’s generator function, which recharges the battery using kinetic energy, switches to a more powerful setting. The Driving Experience Control switch on the center console offers a choice of two settings. On starting, COMFORT mode is activated, which offers a balance between sporty performance and fuel efficiency, with unrestricted access to all convenience functions. Alternatively, the ECO PRO mode can be engaged, which, on the BMW i8 as on other models, supports an efficiency-optimized driving style. On this mode the powertrain controller coordinates the cooperation between the gasoline engine and the electric motor for maximum fuel economy. On deceleration, the intelligent energy management system automatically decides, in line with the driving situation and vehicle status, whether to recuperate braking energy or to coast with the powertrain disengaged. At the same time, ECO PRO mode also programs electrical convenience functions such as the air conditioning, seat heating and heated mirrors to operate at minimum power consumption, but without compromising safety. The maximum driving range of the BMW i8 on a full fuel tank and with a fully charged battery is more than 500 km (310 mi) in COMFORT mode, which can be increased by up to 20% in ECO PRO mode. The BMW i8’s ECO PRO mode can also be used during all-electric operation. The vehicle is then powered solely by the electric motor. Only if the battery charge drops below a given level, or under sudden intense throttle application such as kickdown, is the internal combustion engine automatically activated.

The vehicle was unveiled in BMW Group's Miramas test track in France.

Production version

The production BMW i8 was designed by Benoit Jacob. The production version was unveiled at the 2013 International Motor Show Germany, followed by 2013 Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez. It features butterfly doors, head-up display, rear-view cameras and partially false engine noise. Series production of customer vehicles began in April 2014. It is the first production car with laser headlights, reaching further than LED lights.

The i8 has a low vehicle weight of 1,485 kg (3,274 lb) (DIN kerb weight) and a low drag coefficient (Cd) of 0.26. In all-electric mode the BMW i8 has a top speed of 120 km/h (75 mph). In Sport mode the i8 delivers a mid-range acceleration from 80 to 120 km/h (50 to 75 mph) in 2.6 seconds. The electronically controlled top speed is 250 km/h (160 mph).

Range and fuel economy[edit]

The production i8 has a 7.1 kWh lithium-ion battery pack with a usable capacity of 5.2 kWh and intelligent energy management that delivers an all-electric range of 37 km (23 mi) under the NEDC cycle. Under the EPA cycle, the range in EV mode is 15 mi (24 km), with a gasoline consumption of 0.1 gallons per 100 mi, and as a result, EPA's all-electric range is zero. The total range is 330 mi (530 km).

The production version has a fuel efficiency of 2.1 L/100 km (134.5 mpg-imp; 112.0 mpg-US) under the NEDC test with carbon emissions of 49 g/km.[5] Under EPA cycle, the i8 combined fuel economy in EV mode was rated 76 equivalent (MPG-equivalent) (3.1 L gasoline equivalent/100 km; 91 mpg-imp gasoline equivalent), with an energy consumption of 43 kW-hrs/100 mi and gasoline consumption of 0.1 gal-US/100 mi. The combined fuel economy when running only with gasoline is 28 mpg-US (8.4 L/100 km; 34 mpg-imp), 28 mpg-US (8.4 L/100 km; 34 mpg-imp) for city driving, and 29 mpg-US (8.1 L/100 km; 35 mpg-imp) in highway.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's 2014 edition of the "Light-Duty Automotive Technology, Carbon Dioxide Emissions, and Fuel Economy Trends" introduced utility factors for plug-in hybrids to represent the percentage of miles that will be driven using electricity by an average driver, in electric only or blended modes. The BMW i8 has a utility factor in EV mode of 37%, compared with 83% for the BMW i3 REx, 66% for the Chevrolet Volt, 65% for the Cadillac ELR, 45% for the Ford Energi models, 43% for the McLaren P1, 39% for the Porsche Panamera S E-Hybrid, and 29% for the Toyota Prius PHV.

[Text from Wikipedia]

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_i8

This Lego miniland-scale BMW i8 has been created for Flickr LUGNuts' 94th Build Challenge, - "Appease the Elves Summer Automobile Build-off (Part 2)", - a design challenge combining the resources of LUGNuts, TheLegoCarBlog (TLCB) and Head Turnerz.

The BMW i8, first introduced as the BMW Concept Vision Efficient Dynamics, is a plug-in hybrid sports car developed by BMW. The 2015 model year BMW i8 has a 7.1 kWh lithium-ion battery pack that delivers an all-electric range of 37 km (23 mi) under the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC).[5] Under the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) cycle, the range in EV mode is 24 km (15 mi) with a small amount of gasoline consumption.

The BMW i8 can go from 0–100 km/h (0 to 60 mph) in 4.4 seconds and has a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph). The BMW i8 has a fuel efficiency of 2.1 L/100 km (134.5 mpg-imp; 112.0 mpg-US) under the NEDC test with carbon emissions of 49 g/km. EPA rated the i8 combined fuel economy at 76 equivalent (MPG-equivalent) (3.1 L gasoline equivalent/100 km; 91 mpg-imp gasoline equivalent).

The initial turbodiesel concept car was unveiled at the 2009 International Motor Show Germany. The production version of the BMW i8 was unveiled at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show. The i8 was released in Germany in June 2014. Deliveries to retail customers in the U.S. began in August 2014. Global cumulative sales totaled almost 4,500 units through June 2015.

History

The i8 is part of BMW's "Project i" and it is being marketed as a new brand, BMW i, sold separately from BMW or Mini. The BMW i3, launched for retail customers in Europe in the fourth quarter of 2013, was the first model of the i brand available in the market, and it was followed by the i8, released in Germany in June 2014 as a 2015 model year. Other i models are expected to follow.

The initial turbodiesel concept car was unveiled at the 2009 International Motor Show Germany, In 2010, BMW announced the mass production of the Concept Vision Efficient Dynamics in Leipzig beginning in 2013 as the BMW i8. The BMW i8 gasoline-powered concept car destined for production was unveiled at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show. The production version of the BMW i8 was unveiled at the 2013 International Motor Show Germany. The following are the concept and pre-production models developed by BMW that precedeed the production version.

BMW Vision EfficientDynamics (2009)

BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept car is a plug-in hybrid with a three cylinder turbodiesel engine. Additionally, there are two electric motors with 139 horsepower. It allows an acceleration to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.8 seconds and an electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h (160 mph).

According to BMW, the average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle (KV01) is 3.76 liters/100 kilometers, (75.1 mpg imp), and has a carbon dioxide emission rating of 99 grams per kilometer (1,3 l/100 km and 33g CO2/km ; EU-PHEV ECE-R101). The estimated all-electric range is 50 km (31 mi), and the 24-liter petrol tank extends the total vehicle range to up to 700 km (430 mi). The lightweight chassis is made mainly from aluminum. The windshield, top, doors and fenders are made from polycarbonate glass, with the body having a drag coefficient of 0.26.

The designers in charge of the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics Concept were Mario Majdandzic, Exterior Design and Jochen Paesen, Interior Design.

The vehicle was unveiled in 2009 International Motor Show Germany, followed by Auto China 2010.

BMW i8 Concept (2011)

BMW i8 Concept plug-in hybrid electric vehicle includes an electric motor located in the front axle powering the front wheels rated 96 kW (131 PS; 129 hp) and 250 N·m (184 lb·ft), a turbocharged 1.5-liter 3-cylinder gasoline engine driving rear wheels rated 164 kW (223 PS; 220 hp) and 300 N·m (221 lb·ft) of torque, with combined output of 260 kW (354 PS; 349 hp) and 550 N·m (406 lb·ft), a 7.2 kWh (26 MJ) lithium-ion battery pack that allows an all-electric range of 35 km (22 mi). All four wheels provide regenerative braking. The location of the battery pack in the energy tunnel gives the vehicle a low centre of gravity, enhancing its dynamics. Its top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h (160 mph) and is expected to go from 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 60 mph) in 4.6 seconds. Under normal driving conditions the i8 is expected to deliver 80 mpg-US (2.9 L/100 km; 96 mpg-imp) under the European cycle. A full charge of the battery will take less than 2 hours using 220V. The positioning of the motor and engine over the axles results in optimum 50/50 weight distribution.

The vehicle was unveiled at the 2011 International Motor Show Germany, followed by CENTER 548 in New York City, 42nd Tokyo Motor Show 2011, 82nd Geneva Motor Show 2012, BMW i Born Electric Tour at the Palazzo delle Esposizioni at Via Nazionale 194 in Rome, Auto Shanghai 2013.

This concept car was featured in the film Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol.

BMW i8 Concept Spyder (2012)

The BMW i8 Concept Spyder included a slightly shorter wheelbase and overall length over the BMW i8 Concept, carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) Life module, drive modules made primarily from aluminium components, interlocking of surfaces and lines, 8.8-inch (22.4 cm) screen display, off-white outer layer, orange tone naturally tanned leather upholstery.

The vehicle was unveiled in Auto China 2012 in Beijing and won Concept Car of the Year, followed by 83rd Geneva International Motor Show 2013.

The designer of the BMW i8 Concept Spyder was Richard Kim.

BMW i8 coupe prototype (2013)

The design of the BMW i8 coupe prototype was based on the BMW i8 Concept. The BMW i8 prototype has an average fuel efficiency of less than 2.5 L/100 km (113.0 mpg-imp; 94.1 mpg-US) under the New European Driving Cycle with carbon emissions of less than 59 g/km. The i8 with its carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP) passenger cell lightweight, aerodynamically optimized body, and BMW eDrive technology offers the dynamic performance of a sports car, with an expected 0–100 km (0–60 mi) sprint time of less than 4.5 seconds using both power sources. The plug-in hybrid system of the BMW i8 comprises a three-cylinder, 1.5-liter BMW TwinPower turbo gasoline engine combined with BMW eDrive technology used in the BMW i3 and develops maximum power of 170 kW (230 hp). The BMW i8 is the first BMW production model to be powered by a three-cylinder gasoline engine and the resulting specific output of 115 kW (154 hp) per liter of displacement is on a par with high-performance sports car engines and is the highest of any engine produced by the BMW Group.

The BMW i8's second power source is a hybrid synchronous electric motor specially developed and produced by the BMW Group for BMW i. The electric motor develops maximum power of 131 hp (96 kW) and produces its maximum torque of around 320 N·m (240 lbf·ft) from standstill. Typical of an electric motor, responsive power is instantly available when starting and this continues into the higher load ranges. As well as providing a power boost to assist the gasoline engine during acceleration, the electric motor can also power the vehicle by itself. Top speed in electric mode is approximately 120 km/h (75 mph), with a maximum driving range of up to 35 km (22 mi). Linear acceleration is maintained even at higher speeds since the interplay between the two power sources efficiently absorbs any power flow interruptions when shifting gears. The BMW i8 has an electronically controlled top speed of 250 km (160 mi), which can be reached and maintained when the vehicle operates solely on the gasoline engine. The model-specific version of the high-voltage 7.2 lithium-ion battery has a liquid cooling system and can be recharged at a conventional household power socket, at a BMW i Wallbox or at a public charging station. In the US a full recharge takes approximately 3.5 hours from a conventional 120V, 12 amp household circuit or approximately 1.5 hours from a 220V Level 2 charger.

The driver can also select several driving modes: SPORT, COMFORT and ECO PRO. Using the gear selector, the driver can either select position D for automated gear selection or can switch to SPORT mode. SPORT mode offers manual gear selection and at the same time switches to very sporty drive and suspension settings. In SPORT mode, the engine and electric motor deliver extra performance, accelerator response is faster and the power boost from the electric motor is maximized. And to keep the battery topped up, SPORT mode also activates maximum energy recuperation during overrun and braking as the electric motor’s generator function, which recharges the battery using kinetic energy, switches to a more powerful setting. The Driving Experience Control switch on the center console offers a choice of two settings. On starting, COMFORT mode is activated, which offers a balance between sporty performance and fuel efficiency, with unrestricted access to all convenience functions. Alternatively, the ECO PRO mode can be engaged, which, on the BMW i8 as on other models, supports an efficiency-optimized driving style. On this mode the powertrain controller coordinates the cooperation between the gasoline engine and the electric motor for maximum fuel economy. On deceleration, the intelligent energy management system automatically decides, in line with the driving situation and vehicle status, whether to recuperate braking energy or to coast with the powertrain disengaged. At the same time, ECO PRO mode also programs electrical convenience functions such as the air conditioning, seat heating and heated mirrors to operate at minimum power consumption, but without compromising safety. The maximum driving range of the BMW i8 on a full fuel tank and with a fully charged battery is more than 500 km (310 mi) in COMFORT mode, which can be increased by up to 20% in ECO PRO mode. The BMW i8’s ECO PRO mode can also be used during all-electric operation. The vehicle is then powered solely by the electric motor. Only if the battery charge drops below a given level, or under sudden intense throttle application such as kickdown, is the internal combustion engine automatically activated.

The vehicle was unveiled in BMW Group's Miramas test track in France.

Production version

The production BMW i8 was designed by Benoit Jacob. The production version was unveiled at the 2013 International Motor Show Germany, followed by 2013 Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez. It features butterfly doors, head-up display, rear-view cameras and partially false engine noise. Series production of customer vehicles began in April 2014. It is the first production car with laser headlights, reaching further than LED lights.

The i8 has a low vehicle weight of 1,485 kg (3,274 lb) (DIN kerb weight) and a low drag coefficient (Cd) of 0.26. In all-electric mode the BMW i8 has a top speed of 120 km/h (75 mph). In Sport mode the i8 delivers a mid-range acceleration from 80 to 120 km/h (50 to 75 mph) in 2.6 seconds. The electronically controlled top speed is 250 km/h (160 mph).

Range and fuel economy[edit]

The production i8 has a 7.1 kWh lithium-ion battery pack with a usable capacity of 5.2 kWh and intelligent energy management that delivers an all-electric range of 37 km (23 mi) under the NEDC cycle. Under the EPA cycle, the range in EV mode is 15 mi (24 km), with a gasoline consumption of 0.1 gallons per 100 mi, and as a result, EPA's all-electric range is zero. The total range is 330 mi (530 km).

The production version has a fuel efficiency of 2.1 L/100 km (134.5 mpg-imp; 112.0 mpg-US) under the NEDC test with carbon emissions of 49 g/km.[5] Under EPA cycle, the i8 combined fuel economy in EV mode was rated 76 equivalent (MPG-equivalent) (3.1 L gasoline equivalent/100 km; 91 mpg-imp gasoline equivalent), with an energy consumption of 43 kW-hrs/100 mi and gasoline consumption of 0.1 gal-US/100 mi. The combined fuel economy when running only with gasoline is 28 mpg-US (8.4 L/100 km; 34 mpg-imp), 28 mpg-US (8.4 L/100 km; 34 mpg-imp) for city driving, and 29 mpg-US (8.1 L/100 km; 35 mpg-imp) in highway.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's 2014 edition of the "Light-Duty Automotive Technology, Carbon Dioxide Emissions, and Fuel Economy Trends" introduced utility factors for plug-in hybrids to represent the percentage of miles that will be driven using electricity by an average driver, in electric only or blended modes. The BMW i8 has a utility factor in EV mode of 37%, compared with 83% for the BMW i3 REx, 66% for the Chevrolet Volt, 65% for the Cadillac ELR, 45% for the Ford Energi models, 43% for the McLaren P1, 39% for the Porsche Panamera S E-Hybrid, and 29% for the Toyota Prius PHV.

[Text from Wikipedia]

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_i8

This Lego miniland-scale BMW i8 has been created for Flickr LUGNuts' 94th Build Challenge, - "Appease the Elves Summer Automobile Build-off (Part 2)", - a design challenge combining the resources of LUGNuts, TheLegoCarBlog (TLCB) and Head Turnerz.

The BMW i8, first introduced as the BMW Concept Vision Efficient Dynamics, is a plug-in hybrid sports car developed by BMW. The 2015 model year BMW i8 has a 7.1 kWh lithium-ion battery pack that delivers an all-electric range of 37 km (23 mi) under the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC).[5] Under the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) cycle, the range in EV mode is 24 km (15 mi) with a small amount of gasoline consumption.

The BMW i8 can go from 0–100 km/h (0 to 60 mph) in 4.4 seconds and has a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph). The BMW i8 has a fuel efficiency of 2.1 L/100 km (134.5 mpg-imp; 112.0 mpg-US) under the NEDC test with carbon emissions of 49 g/km. EPA rated the i8 combined fuel economy at 76 equivalent (MPG-equivalent) (3.1 L gasoline equivalent/100 km; 91 mpg-imp gasoline equivalent).

The initial turbodiesel concept car was unveiled at the 2009 International Motor Show Germany. The production version of the BMW i8 was unveiled at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show. The i8 was released in Germany in June 2014. Deliveries to retail customers in the U.S. began in August 2014. Global cumulative sales totaled almost 4,500 units through June 2015.

History

The i8 is part of BMW's "Project i" and it is being marketed as a new brand, BMW i, sold separately from BMW or Mini. The BMW i3, launched for retail customers in Europe in the fourth quarter of 2013, was the first model of the i brand available in the market, and it was followed by the i8, released in Germany in June 2014 as a 2015 model year. Other i models are expected to follow.

The initial turbodiesel concept car was unveiled at the 2009 International Motor Show Germany, In 2010, BMW announced the mass production of the Concept Vision Efficient Dynamics in Leipzig beginning in 2013 as the BMW i8. The BMW i8 gasoline-powered concept car destined for production was unveiled at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show. The production version of the BMW i8 was unveiled at the 2013 International Motor Show Germany. The following are the concept and pre-production models developed by BMW that precedeed the production version.

BMW Vision EfficientDynamics (2009)

BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept car is a plug-in hybrid with a three cylinder turbodiesel engine. Additionally, there are two electric motors with 139 horsepower. It allows an acceleration to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.8 seconds and an electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h (160 mph).

According to BMW, the average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle (KV01) is 3.76 liters/100 kilometers, (75.1 mpg imp), and has a carbon dioxide emission rating of 99 grams per kilometer (1,3 l/100 km and 33g CO2/km ; EU-PHEV ECE-R101). The estimated all-electric range is 50 km (31 mi), and the 24-liter petrol tank extends the total vehicle range to up to 700 km (430 mi). The lightweight chassis is made mainly from aluminum. The windshield, top, doors and fenders are made from polycarbonate glass, with the body having a drag coefficient of 0.26.

The designers in charge of the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics Concept were Mario Majdandzic, Exterior Design and Jochen Paesen, Interior Design.

The vehicle was unveiled in 2009 International Motor Show Germany, followed by Auto China 2010.

BMW i8 Concept (2011)

BMW i8 Concept plug-in hybrid electric vehicle includes an electric motor located in the front axle powering the front wheels rated 96 kW (131 PS; 129 hp) and 250 N·m (184 lb·ft), a turbocharged 1.5-liter 3-cylinder gasoline engine driving rear wheels rated 164 kW (223 PS; 220 hp) and 300 N·m (221 lb·ft) of torque, with combined output of 260 kW (354 PS; 349 hp) and 550 N·m (406 lb·ft), a 7.2 kWh (26 MJ) lithium-ion battery pack that allows an all-electric range of 35 km (22 mi). All four wheels provide regenerative braking. The location of the battery pack in the energy tunnel gives the vehicle a low centre of gravity, enhancing its dynamics. Its top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h (160 mph) and is expected to go from 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 60 mph) in 4.6 seconds. Under normal driving conditions the i8 is expected to deliver 80 mpg-US (2.9 L/100 km; 96 mpg-imp) under the European cycle. A full charge of the battery will take less than 2 hours using 220V. The positioning of the motor and engine over the axles results in optimum 50/50 weight distribution.

The vehicle was unveiled at the 2011 International Motor Show Germany, followed by CENTER 548 in New York City, 42nd Tokyo Motor Show 2011, 82nd Geneva Motor Show 2012, BMW i Born Electric Tour at the Palazzo delle Esposizioni at Via Nazionale 194 in Rome, Auto Shanghai 2013.

This concept car was featured in the film Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol.

BMW i8 Concept Spyder (2012)

The BMW i8 Concept Spyder included a slightly shorter wheelbase and overall length over the BMW i8 Concept, carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) Life module, drive modules made primarily from aluminium components, interlocking of surfaces and lines, 8.8-inch (22.4 cm) screen display, off-white outer layer, orange tone naturally tanned leather upholstery.

The vehicle was unveiled in Auto China 2012 in Beijing and won Concept Car of the Year, followed by 83rd Geneva International Motor Show 2013.

The designer of the BMW i8 Concept Spyder was Richard Kim.

BMW i8 coupe prototype (2013)

The design of the BMW i8 coupe prototype was based on the BMW i8 Concept. The BMW i8 prototype has an average fuel efficiency of less than 2.5 L/100 km (113.0 mpg-imp; 94.1 mpg-US) under the New European Driving Cycle with carbon emissions of less than 59 g/km. The i8 with its carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP) passenger cell lightweight, aerodynamically optimized body, and BMW eDrive technology offers the dynamic performance of a sports car, with an expected 0–100 km (0–60 mi) sprint time of less than 4.5 seconds using both power sources. The plug-in hybrid system of the BMW i8 comprises a three-cylinder, 1.5-liter BMW TwinPower turbo gasoline engine combined with BMW eDrive technology used in the BMW i3 and develops maximum power of 170 kW (230 hp). The BMW i8 is the first BMW production model to be powered by a three-cylinder gasoline engine and the resulting specific output of 115 kW (154 hp) per liter of displacement is on a par with high-performance sports car engines and is the highest of any engine produced by the BMW Group.

The BMW i8's second power source is a hybrid synchronous electric motor specially developed and produced by the BMW Group for BMW i. The electric motor develops maximum power of 131 hp (96 kW) and produces its maximum torque of around 320 N·m (240 lbf·ft) from standstill. Typical of an electric motor, responsive power is instantly available when starting and this continues into the higher load ranges. As well as providing a power boost to assist the gasoline engine during acceleration, the electric motor can also power the vehicle by itself. Top speed in electric mode is approximately 120 km/h (75 mph), with a maximum driving range of up to 35 km (22 mi). Linear acceleration is maintained even at higher speeds since the interplay between the two power sources efficiently absorbs any power flow interruptions when shifting gears. The BMW i8 has an electronically controlled top speed of 250 km (160 mi), which can be reached and maintained when the vehicle operates solely on the gasoline engine. The model-specific version of the high-voltage 7.2 lithium-ion battery has a liquid cooling system and can be recharged at a conventional household power socket, at a BMW i Wallbox or at a public charging station. In the US a full recharge takes approximately 3.5 hours from a conventional 120V, 12 amp household circuit or approximately 1.5 hours from a 220V Level 2 charger.

The driver can also select several driving modes: SPORT, COMFORT and ECO PRO. Using the gear selector, the driver can either select position D for automated gear selection or can switch to SPORT mode. SPORT mode offers manual gear selection and at the same time switches to very sporty drive and suspension settings. In SPORT mode, the engine and electric motor deliver extra performance, accelerator response is faster and the power boost from the electric motor is maximized. And to keep the battery topped up, SPORT mode also activates maximum energy recuperation during overrun and braking as the electric motor’s generator function, which recharges the battery using kinetic energy, switches to a more powerful setting. The Driving Experience Control switch on the center console offers a choice of two settings. On starting, COMFORT mode is activated, which offers a balance between sporty performance and fuel efficiency, with unrestricted access to all convenience functions. Alternatively, the ECO PRO mode can be engaged, which, on the BMW i8 as on other models, supports an efficiency-optimized driving style. On this mode the powertrain controller coordinates the cooperation between the gasoline engine and the electric motor for maximum fuel economy. On deceleration, the intelligent energy management system automatically decides, in line with the driving situation and vehicle status, whether to recuperate braking energy or to coast with the powertrain disengaged. At the same time, ECO PRO mode also programs electrical convenience functions such as the air conditioning, seat heating and heated mirrors to operate at minimum power consumption, but without compromising safety. The maximum driving range of the BMW i8 on a full fuel tank and with a fully charged battery is more than 500 km (310 mi) in COMFORT mode, which can be increased by up to 20% in ECO PRO mode. The BMW i8’s ECO PRO mode can also be used during all-electric operation. The vehicle is then powered solely by the electric motor. Only if the battery charge drops below a given level, or under sudden intense throttle application such as kickdown, is the internal combustion engine automatically activated.

The vehicle was unveiled in BMW Group's Miramas test track in France.

Production version

The production BMW i8 was designed by Benoit Jacob. The production version was unveiled at the 2013 International Motor Show Germany, followed by 2013 Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez. It features butterfly doors, head-up display, rear-view cameras and partially false engine noise. Series production of customer vehicles began in April 2014. It is the first production car with laser headlights, reaching further than LED lights.

The i8 has a low vehicle weight of 1,485 kg (3,274 lb) (DIN kerb weight) and a low drag coefficient (Cd) of 0.26. In all-electric mode the BMW i8 has a top speed of 120 km/h (75 mph). In Sport mode the i8 delivers a mid-range acceleration from 80 to 120 km/h (50 to 75 mph) in 2.6 seconds. The electronically controlled top speed is 250 km/h (160 mph).

Range and fuel economy[edit]

The production i8 has a 7.1 kWh lithium-ion battery pack with a usable capacity of 5.2 kWh and intelligent energy management that delivers an all-electric range of 37 km (23 mi) under the NEDC cycle. Under the EPA cycle, the range in EV mode is 15 mi (24 km), with a gasoline consumption of 0.1 gallons per 100 mi, and as a result, EPA's all-electric range is zero. The total range is 330 mi (530 km).

The production version has a fuel efficiency of 2.1 L/100 km (134.5 mpg-imp; 112.0 mpg-US) under the NEDC test with carbon emissions of 49 g/km.[5] Under EPA cycle, the i8 combined fuel economy in EV mode was rated 76 equivalent (MPG-equivalent) (3.1 L gasoline equivalent/100 km; 91 mpg-imp gasoline equivalent), with an energy consumption of 43 kW-hrs/100 mi and gasoline consumption of 0.1 gal-US/100 mi. The combined fuel economy when running only with gasoline is 28 mpg-US (8.4 L/100 km; 34 mpg-imp), 28 mpg-US (8.4 L/100 km; 34 mpg-imp) for city driving, and 29 mpg-US (8.1 L/100 km; 35 mpg-imp) in highway.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's 2014 edition of the "Light-Duty Automotive Technology, Carbon Dioxide Emissions, and Fuel Economy Trends" introduced utility factors for plug-in hybrids to represent the percentage of miles that will be driven using electricity by an average driver, in electric only or blended modes. The BMW i8 has a utility factor in EV mode of 37%, compared with 83% for the BMW i3 REx, 66% for the Chevrolet Volt, 65% for the Cadillac ELR, 45% for the Ford Energi models, 43% for the McLaren P1, 39% for the Porsche Panamera S E-Hybrid, and 29% for the Toyota Prius PHV.

[Text from Wikipedia]

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_i8

This Lego miniland-scale BMW i8 has been created for Flickr LUGNuts' 94th Build Challenge, - "Appease the Elves Summer Automobile Build-off (Part 2)", - a design challenge combining the resources of LUGNuts, TheLegoCarBlog (TLCB) and Head Turnerz.

This is a modification of my hot rod pickup. It still has everything that you might like (motorized/remotely controlled driving/steering, lights, turn signals, working steering wheel, working V8 and radiator fan, working door handles, gearbox…) and some new features (wheels, suspension, engine, roof, front lights, interior, fuel tank, movable license plate, chrome details…). Like the old one, it is 50 studs long and 28 studs wide but it is heavier - it weighs 1285g.

VIDEO: youtu.be/jR0rCEck7_0

Characteristics:

-Leaf spring suspension with height-adjustable rear

-License plate with simple mechanism to hide it (manual)

-Lights (front and rear) manually controlled with a lever connected to a speed dial of 8878 battery (which allows you to switch between low and high beam)

-Turn signals (front and rear) connected to a servo motor via coupled PF switches (2 switches)

-Working steering wheel

-Manual gearbox – 4 gears (5:1, 3:1, 5:3, 1:1)

-Suicide doors with working door handles

-It is powered by two L motors and 7.4 V (8878) rechargeable battery box.

-Servo motor for steering

-Working V8 fake engine with some details to make it resemble real V8 engine, connected directly to the driving motors so it works at the same speed no matter what gear you choose (in neutral also)

-Working radiator fan, connected directly to a V8 engine

-Rear doors can be opened.

-Roof window, fire extinguisher, fuel tank…

-Front tires from 8070 supercar, and rear from 42000 Grand Prix Racer.

I hope you like it, feel free to comment…

p.s. it has been blogged: thelegocarblog.com/2014/07/03/rod-mod/

This creation was blogged by

The Lego Car Blog!

This is a modification of my hot rod pickup. It still has everything that you might like (motorized/remotely controlled driving/steering, lights, turn signals, working steering wheel, working V8 and radiator fan, working door handles, gearbox…) and some new features (wheels, suspension, engine, roof, front lights, interior, fuel tank, movable license plate, chrome details…). Like the old one, it is 50 studs long and 28 studs wide but it is heavier - it weighs 1285g.

VIDEO: youtu.be/jR0rCEck7_0

Characteristics:

-Leaf spring suspension with height-adjustable rear

-License plate with simple mechanism to hide it (manual)

-Lights (front and rear) manually controlled with a lever connected to a speed dial of 8878 battery (which allows you to switch between low and high beam)

-Turn signals (front and rear) connected to a servo motor via coupled PF switches (2 switches)

-Working steering wheel

-Manual gearbox – 4 gears (5:1, 3:1, 5:3, 1:1)

-Suicide doors with working door handles

-It is powered by two L motors and 7.4 V (8878) rechargeable battery box.

-Servo motor for steering

-Working V8 fake engine with some details to make it resemble real V8 engine, connected directly to the driving motors so it works at the same speed no matter what gear you choose (in neutral also)

-Working radiator fan, connected directly to a V8 engine

-Rear doors can be opened.

-Roof window, fire extinguisher, fuel tank…

-Front tires from 8070 supercar, and rear from 42000 Grand Prix Racer.

I hope you like it, feel free to comment…

p.s. it has been blogged: thelegocarblog.com/2014/07/03/rod-mod/

A light switch with cover

I present to you our local public transportation called the Bus Rapid KL (Kuala Lumpur) in Lego. This can fit up to 25 minifigures including standing and sitting. I manage to light up this bus on the front, back, and the interior too. Each seat can be adjusted forward and back. The scale is compatible with the latest Lego Speed Champions Ferrari Tributo set. Almost 500 pieces were used to build this bus. Stickers are all self custom made. Apologies for the slight color variations of the stickers especially the Tan color.

You can also visit The Lego Car Blog:

thelegocarblog.com/2020/03/11/rapid-bus/

This is a modification of my hot rod pickup. It still has everything that you might like (motorized/remotely controlled driving/steering, lights, turn signals, working steering wheel, working V8 and radiator fan, working door handles, gearbox…) and some new features (wheels, suspension, engine, roof, front lights, interior, fuel tank, movable license plate, chrome details…). Like the old one, it is 50 studs long and 28 studs wide but it is heavier - it weighs 1285g.

VIDEO: youtu.be/jR0rCEck7_0

Characteristics:

-Leaf spring suspension with height-adjustable rear

-License plate with simple mechanism to hide it (manual)

-Lights (front and rear) manually controlled with a lever connected to a speed dial of 8878 battery (which allows you to switch between low and high beam)

-Turn signals (front and rear) connected to a servo motor via coupled PF switches (2 switches)

-Working steering wheel

-Manual gearbox – 4 gears (5:1, 3:1, 5:3, 1:1)

-Suicide doors with working door handles

-It is powered by two L motors and 7.4 V (8878) rechargeable battery box.

-Servo motor for steering

-Working V8 fake engine with some details to make it resemble real V8 engine, connected directly to the driving motors so it works at the same speed no matter what gear you choose (in neutral also)

-Working radiator fan, connected directly to a V8 engine

-Rear doors can be opened.

-Roof window, fire extinguisher, fuel tank…

-Front tires from 8070 supercar, and rear from 42000 Grand Prix Racer.

I hope you like it, feel free to comment…

p.s. it has been blogged: thelegocarblog.com/2014/07/03/rod-mod/

This is a modification of my hot rod pickup. It still has everything that you might like (motorized/remotely controlled driving/steering, lights, turn signals, working steering wheel, working V8 and radiator fan, working door handles, gearbox…) and some new features (wheels, suspension, engine, roof, front lights, interior, fuel tank, movable license plate, chrome details…). Like the old one, it is 50 studs long and 28 studs wide but it is heavier - it weighs 1285g.

VIDEO: youtu.be/jR0rCEck7_0

Characteristics:

-Leaf spring suspension with height-adjustable rear

-License plate with simple mechanism to hide it (manual)

-Lights (front and rear) manually controlled with a lever connected to a speed dial of 8878 battery (which allows you to switch between low and high beam)

-Turn signals (front and rear) connected to a servo motor via coupled PF switches (2 switches)

-Working steering wheel

-Manual gearbox – 4 gears (5:1, 3:1, 5:3, 1:1)

-Suicide doors with working door handles

-It is powered by two L motors and 7.4 V (8878) rechargeable battery box.

-Servo motor for steering

-Working V8 fake engine with some details to make it resemble real V8 engine, connected directly to the driving motors so it works at the same speed no matter what gear you choose (in neutral also)

-Working radiator fan, connected directly to a V8 engine

-Rear doors can be opened.

-Roof window, fire extinguisher, fuel tank…

-Front tires from 8070 supercar, and rear from 42000 Grand Prix Racer.

I hope you like it, feel free to comment…

p.s. it has been blogged: thelegocarblog.com/2014/07/03/rod-mod/

With its wild wings, futuristic curves, and total lack of practicality, the Ferrari Dino 206 Competizione was the quintessential concept car. A radically designed prototype, the Competizione combined typical Ferrari values of charm, charisma, and technically advanced engineering prowess.

The Dino name in the Competizione's title is in reference to Enzo Ferrari's son, Dino. When Ferrari first developed a V6 engine for the 1957 Formula 2 series, he named it Dino. After that, the name of Enzo's son was used to designate six-cylinder and lower-cost Ferraris. The 206 nomenclature used on Ferrari's 1967 prototype indicates that it was built on a 206 S chassis. The 206 S was a capable racing car, with a body that resembled that of the V12-powered 330 P3. Using 206 S chassis #10523 to underpin the Competizione gave the car racer roots that were rarely seen on concept cars. The Dino 206 Competizione distinguished itself as a concept that was not just functional, but built on a thoroughly race-proven chassis.

That proven chassis was endowed with four wheel disc brakes, front and rear independent suspension, and an advanced steel space frame design that gave high strength in a lightweight package. The total weight of the 206 Competizione was just 1,400lbs, making even its small engine more than enough to create an unquestionably fast car.

The Dino V6 used in the Competizione displaced just 2.0-liters, but was able to generate 218bhp. Peak power was reached at redline, which was 9,000rpm. The lower rotational inertial of the small V6 gave an even higher redline than the V12 mounted in the 330 P series. The V6 was constructed of aluminum and mounted amidships within the space frame of the prototype, as it was in the standard 206 S. A 5-speed transaxle directed the engine's power to the rear wheels.

Despite its racing car foundation, the Dino 206 Competizione was not created to compete. As a dedicated concept car, it was created to showcase excellent design and possible styling cues for Ferrari's future. The Competizione had an advanced appearance that flaunted the talents of a young designer named Paolo Martin. Only 23 when he designed the car, the Competizione came very early in Martin's career. He later would admit he felt 'a very strong emotion' as he watched his project unfold into a true supercar.

Paolo Martin was working under Pininfarina when he developed the Competizione's styling, so the car wears Pininfarina 'f' badges. Pininfarina was also responsible for the construction of the prototype's body. Martin's shape was free of hard edges, with abundant curves and a large glass area with a circular cross-section. Viewed from some angles, the odd shape of the car's glass lends the greenhouse a bubble-like appearance. This is particularly evident from the front, where the vast windshield sweeps up and to the sides like a bulbous take on a jetfighter's canopy.

The Competizione had exaggerated mid-engined proportions, with a short, low nose and a long, high tail. The front lighting fit the shape perfectly, with transparent, aerodynamic coverings over clusters of three lights. The light clusters were angled down towards the center of the car's nose. The lighting's covers blended seamlessly with the unusually round curve at the front of the car, and combined with front vents ahead of the large windshield to create a design that looked organic, but not earthly. From the front, the design had a cartoonish look that was exotic and alien, as if the Competizione was designed on a different planet to resemble some distant species.

Distinctive spoilers added to the effect. Though the strange spoilers didn't seem out of place on the car, they almost looked as if they were tacked on as an afterthought. This was not surprising, as Paolo Martin himself admitted that the spoilers 'were added only at the last minute, since the Management thought the design had to be enriched.' The spoilers used black wings attached to the body by metal arms that looked too much like pieces from an Erector Set to match the rest of the design.

All of the vents and air intakes found on the Dino 206 Competizione—and there were plenty—blended gracefully with the smooth curves on which they were placed. They looked like gills, and they enhanced the car's alien image. A single windshield wiper protruded like a tentacle reaching towards the windshield. Gullwing doors with a huge glass area contributed to the otherworldly effect, as did the jarring, bright yellow paint that covered the prototype's aluminum skin.

James Glickenhaus, a wealthy car collector with a special interest in Ferraris, recently became the first private owner of the Dino 206 Competizione. The car had been kept in Pininfarina's museum for over thirty years until a purchase was agreed upon in 2007 and Glickenhaus bought the stunning vehicle. Since Glickenhaus purchased the car, it has been shown with success and driven regularly.

[Text from Conceptcarz.com]

www.conceptcarz.com/vehicle/z17222/Ferrari-Dino-206-Compe...

This Lego miniland-scale Ferrari Dino 206 Competizione (s/n 10523 - Carrozzeria Pininfarina - 1967) has been created for Flickr LUGNuts' 94th Build Challenge, - "Appease the Elves Summer Automobile Build-off (Part 2)", - a design challenge combining the resources of LUGNuts, TheLegoCarBlog (TLCB) and Head Turnerz.

Launched to the media on July 29th 2015, the Ferrari 488 Spider is the latest in a long-running series of mid-engined V8 road-going sportscars from the Ferrari marque.

Notably, this is the first open-topped mid-engine Ferrari deploying turbochargers to boost performance.

The 488 Spider is powered by the same 500kW/760Nm 3.9-litre twin-turbocharged V8 as the GTB, making the new Spider able to complete the 0-100km/h sprint in “three seconds flat", says Ferrari, and to hit 200km/h from standstill in just 8.7 seconds.

The shape at first glance is an evolutionary advance on the Ferrari 458 Spider that preceded it, though there are many subtle design changes.

Finished in a fetching shade of metallic blue, the first release images show a pleasing addition to the Ferrari lineup.

This Lego miniland-scale Ferrari 488 Spider has been created for Flickr LUGNuts' 93rd BUild Challenge, - "Appease the Elves Summer Automobile Build-off (Part 1)", - a design challenge combining the resources of LUGNuts, TheLegoCarBlog (TLCB) and Head Turnerz.

Launched to the media on July 29th 2015, the Ferrari 488 Spider is the latest in a long-running series of mid-engined V8 road-going sportscars from the Ferrari marque.

Notably, this is the first open-topped mid-engine Ferrari deploying turbochargers to boost performance.

The 488 Spider is powered by the same 500kW/760Nm 3.9-litre twin-turbocharged V8 as the GTB, making the new Spider able to complete the 0-100km/h sprint in “three seconds flat", says Ferrari, and to hit 200km/h from standstill in just 8.7 seconds.

The shape at first glance is an evolutionary advance on the Ferrari 458 Spider that preceded it, though there are many subtle design changes.

Finished in a fetching shade of metallic blue, the first release images show a pleasing addition to the Ferrari lineup.

This Lego miniland-scale Ferrari 488 Spider has been created for Flickr LUGNuts' 93rd BUild Challenge, - "Appease the Elves Summer Automobile Build-off (Part 1)", - a design challenge combining the resources of LUGNuts, TheLegoCarBlog (TLCB) and Head Turnerz.

This is a modification of my hot rod pickup. It still has everything that you might like (motorized/remotely controlled driving/steering, lights, turn signals, working steering wheel, working V8 and radiator fan, working door handles, gearbox…) and some new features (wheels, suspension, engine, roof, front lights, interior, fuel tank, movable license plate, chrome details…). Like the old one, it is 50 studs long and 28 studs wide but it is heavier - it weighs 1285g.

VIDEO: youtu.be/jR0rCEck7_0

Characteristics:

-Leaf spring suspension with height-adjustable rear

-License plate with simple mechanism to hide it (manual)

-Lights (front and rear) manually controlled with a lever connected to a speed dial of 8878 battery (which allows you to switch between low and high beam)

-Turn signals (front and rear) connected to a servo motor via coupled PF switches (2 switches)

-Working steering wheel

-Manual gearbox – 4 gears (5:1, 3:1, 5:3, 1:1)

-Suicide doors with working door handles

-It is powered by two L motors and 7.4 V (8878) rechargeable battery box.

-Servo motor for steering

-Working V8 fake engine with some details to make it resemble real V8 engine, connected directly to the driving motors so it works at the same speed no matter what gear you choose (in neutral also)

-Working radiator fan, connected directly to a V8 engine

-Rear doors can be opened.

-Roof window, fire extinguisher, fuel tank…

-Front tires from 8070 supercar, and rear from 42000 Grand Prix Racer.

I hope you like it, feel free to comment…

p.s. it has been blogged: thelegocarblog.com/2014/07/03/rod-mod/

The Porsche 918 Spyder is a mid-engined plug-in hybrid sports car designed by Porsche. The Spyder is powered by a naturally-aspirated 4.6 litre V8 engine, developing 608 horsepower (453 kW), with two electric motors delivering an additional 279 horsepower (208 kW) for a combined output of 887 horsepower (661 kW). The 918 Spyder's 6.8 kWh lithium-ion battery pack delivers an all-electric range of 19 km (12 mi) under EPA's five-cycle tests. The car has a top speed of around 340 km/h (210 mph).

The 918 Spyder is a limited edition sports car, with 918 units manufactured and sold as a 2014 model year. Production began on September 18, 2013, with deliveries initially scheduled to begin in December 2013. The starting price was US$847,000. The 918 Spyder was the second plug-in hybrid car from Porsche, after the 2014 Panamera S E-Hybrid. The 918 Spyder was sold out in December 2014. The country with the most orders was the United States with 297 units. Production ended in June 2015.

The 918 Spyder was first shown as a concept at the 80th Geneva Motor Show in March 2010. The production version was unveiled at the September 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show. Porsche also unveiled the RSR racing variant of the 918 at the 2011 North American International Auto Show, which combines hybrid technology first used in the 997 GT3 R Hybrid, with styling from the 918 Spyder.

Specifications

The 918 Spyder is a mid-engined two-seater sports car designed by Michael Mauer.[11] It is powered by a 4.6 litre V8 engine. The engine is built on the same architecture as the one used in the RS Spyder Le Mans Prototype racing car without any engine belts.

The engine weighs 135 kg according to Porsche and it delivers 608 horsepower (453 kW) at 8,500 rpm and 528 N·m (389 lbf·ft) of maximum torque. This is supplemented by two electric motors delivering an additional 279 hp (208 kW). One 154 hp (115 kW) electric motor drives the rear wheels in parallel with the engine and also serves as the main generator. This motor and engine deliver power to the rear axle via a 7-speed gearbox coupled to Porsche's own PDK double-clutch system. The front 125 hp (93 kW) electric motor directly drives the front axle; an electric clutch decouples the motor when not in use. The total system delivers 887 hp (661 kW) and 1,280 N·m (940 lbf·ft) of torque. By October 2012 the engineering design was not finalized, but Porsche provided performance figures of 0–100 km/h (62 mph) in 2.5 seconds, 0-200 km/h (120 mph) in 7.2 seconds, 300 kilometres per hour (190 mph) in 19.9 seconds and a tested top speed of 218 miles per hour (351 km/h). In Car and Driver's independent test of the Porsche 918, C/D achieved 0-60 mph in 2.2 seconds (making it the fastest car C/D has ever tested), 0-100 mph in 4.9 seconds, 0-180 mph in 17.5 seconds, and the 1/4 mile in 9.8 seconds. In Motor Trend's independent test of the Porsche 918, they also claimed it was the fastest car to 60 mph that they had ever tested. It stopped from 60-0 mph in 94 feet, and broke Motor Trend's figure 8 record at 22.2 seconds.

The energy storage system is a 312-cell, liquid-cooled 6.8 kW·h lithium-ion battery positioned behind the passenger cell. In addition to a plug-in charge port at the passenger-side B-pillar, the batteries are also charged by regenerative braking and by excess output from the engine when the car is coasting. CO2 emissions are 79 g/km and fuel consumption is 3.0 L/100 km (94 imperial mpg/78 us mpg) under the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC). The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) under its five-cycle tests rated the 2015 model year Porsche 918 Spyder energy consumption in all-electric mode at 50 kWh per 100 miles, which translates into a combined city/highway fuel economy of 67 miles per gallon gasoline equivalent (MPG-e) (3.5 L/100 km; 80 mpg-imp gasoline equivalent). When powered only by the gasoline engine, EPA's official combined city/highway fuel economy is 22 mpg-US (11 L/100 km; 26 mpg-imp).

The 4.6 litre V-8 petrol engine can recharge an empty battery on about two litres of fuel. The supplied Porsche Universal Charger requires seven hours to charge the battery on a typical 110 volt household AC socket or two hours on a dedicated Charging Dock installed with a 240 volt industrial supply. An optional DC Speed Charging Station can restore the battery to full capacity in 25 minutes.

The 918 Spyder offers five different running modes: E-Drive allows the car to run under battery power alone, using the rear electric motor and front motor, giving a range of 18 miles (29 km) for the concept model. The official U.S. EPA all-electric range is 12 mi (19 km). The total range with a full tank of gasoline and a fully charged battery is 420 miles (680 km) according to EPA tests. Under the E-Drive mode the car can reach 93 mph (150 km/h). Three hybrid modes (Hybrid, Sport and Race) use both the engine and electric motors to provide the desired levels of economy and performance. In Race mode a push-to-pass button initiates the Hot Lap setting, which delivers additional electrical power. The chassis is a carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic monocoque. The 918 has electromechanical brakes.

On July 28, 2010, after 2000 declarations of interest, the Supervisory Board of Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG, Stuttgart, gave the green light for series development of the 918 Spyder.

Sales and production

The production version was unveiled at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show. The 2014 model year 918 Spyder was produced in a limited series and it was developed in Weissach and assembled in Zuffenhausen. Porsche manufacture 918 units as a 2014 model year and production started on November 18, 2013, with deliveries scheduled to begin in December 2013. Sales in the United States began in June 2014. Pricing for the 918 Spyder started at US$845,000 (~ €611,000 or £511,000). According to its battery size, the 918 Spyder was eligible to a federal tax credit of up to US$3,667.

As of November 2014, over 800 units had been ordered worldwide, with planned production sold out through late March or early April 2015. Production ended in June 2015 as scheduled. The entire production was sold out in December 2014. The country with the most orders is the United States with 297 units, followed by China and Germany with approximately 100 orders each.

According to JATO Dynamics, a total of 105 units have been registered worldwide during the first nine months of 2014. The United States is the leading market with 202 units delivered up to May 2015. As of October 2014, a total of 9 units were registered in Switzerland, 6 in the Netherlands, 5 units in Canada, and 4 in Sweden.

RSR

At the 2011 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Porsche unveiled the RSR racing variant of the 918 Spyder. Instead of using plug-in hybrid technology, power for the two electric motors is provided by a flywheel accumulator KERS system that sits beside the driver in the passenger compartment. The V8 is a further development of the direct injection engine from the RS Spyder race car developing 563 horsepower (420 kW). The electric motors each provide an additional 102 horsepower (76 kW), giving a peak power output of 767 horsepower (572 kW). The six speed gearbox is a development of the unit from the RS Spyder.

Nürburgring lap time record:

Porsche announced that on September 4, 2013, a 918 fitted with the optional 'Weissach Package' set a Nürburgring lap time of 6:57 on the 12.8 mi (20.6 km) road course, reducing the previous record by 14 seconds, and making it the first series production street-legal car to break the 7 minute barrier (When the 918 set the record, the fastest time of 6:48 was held by a Radical SR8 LM, however it cannot be converted to street use in certain countries. The current record holder is Pagani Zonda R with a lap time with 6:47, however it is a track only car).

The Porsche 918 Spyder also holds the production car lap record of the Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca with 1:29.89.

[Text from Wikipedia]

This LegoMiniland-scale Porsche 918 Spyder - Martini Racing has been created for Flickr LUGNuts' 94th Build Challenge, - "Appease the Elves Summer Automobile Build-off (Part 2)", - a design challenge combining the resources of LUGNuts, TheLegoCarBlog (TLCB) and Head Turnerz.

The Porsche 918 Spyder is a mid-engined plug-in hybrid sports car designed by Porsche. The Spyder is powered by a naturally-aspirated 4.6 litre V8 engine, developing 608 horsepower (453 kW), with two electric motors delivering an additional 279 horsepower (208 kW) for a combined output of 887 horsepower (661 kW). The 918 Spyder's 6.8 kWh lithium-ion battery pack delivers an all-electric range of 19 km (12 mi) under EPA's five-cycle tests. The car has a top speed of around 340 km/h (210 mph).

The 918 Spyder is a limited edition sports car, with 918 units manufactured and sold as a 2014 model year. Production began on September 18, 2013, with deliveries initially scheduled to begin in December 2013. The starting price was US$847,000. The 918 Spyder was the second plug-in hybrid car from Porsche, after the 2014 Panamera S E-Hybrid. The 918 Spyder was sold out in December 2014. The country with the most orders was the United States with 297 units. Production ended in June 2015.

The 918 Spyder was first shown as a concept at the 80th Geneva Motor Show in March 2010. The production version was unveiled at the September 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show. Porsche also unveiled the RSR racing variant of the 918 at the 2011 North American International Auto Show, which combines hybrid technology first used in the 997 GT3 R Hybrid, with styling from the 918 Spyder.

Specifications

The 918 Spyder is a mid-engined two-seater sports car designed by Michael Mauer.[11] It is powered by a 4.6 litre V8 engine. The engine is built on the same architecture as the one used in the RS Spyder Le Mans Prototype racing car without any engine belts.

The engine weighs 135 kg according to Porsche and it delivers 608 horsepower (453 kW) at 8,500 rpm and 528 N·m (389 lbf·ft) of maximum torque. This is supplemented by two electric motors delivering an additional 279 hp (208 kW). One 154 hp (115 kW) electric motor drives the rear wheels in parallel with the engine and also serves as the main generator. This motor and engine deliver power to the rear axle via a 7-speed gearbox coupled to Porsche's own PDK double-clutch system. The front 125 hp (93 kW) electric motor directly drives the front axle; an electric clutch decouples the motor when not in use. The total system delivers 887 hp (661 kW) and 1,280 N·m (940 lbf·ft) of torque. By October 2012 the engineering design was not finalized, but Porsche provided performance figures of 0–100 km/h (62 mph) in 2.5 seconds, 0-200 km/h (120 mph) in 7.2 seconds, 300 kilometres per hour (190 mph) in 19.9 seconds and a tested top speed of 218 miles per hour (351 km/h). In Car and Driver's independent test of the Porsche 918, C/D achieved 0-60 mph in 2.2 seconds (making it the fastest car C/D has ever tested), 0-100 mph in 4.9 seconds, 0-180 mph in 17.5 seconds, and the 1/4 mile in 9.8 seconds. In Motor Trend's independent test of the Porsche 918, they also claimed it was the fastest car to 60 mph that they had ever tested. It stopped from 60-0 mph in 94 feet, and broke Motor Trend's figure 8 record at 22.2 seconds.

The energy storage system is a 312-cell, liquid-cooled 6.8 kW·h lithium-ion battery positioned behind the passenger cell. In addition to a plug-in charge port at the passenger-side B-pillar, the batteries are also charged by regenerative braking and by excess output from the engine when the car is coasting. CO2 emissions are 79 g/km and fuel consumption is 3.0 L/100 km (94 imperial mpg/78 us mpg) under the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC). The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) under its five-cycle tests rated the 2015 model year Porsche 918 Spyder energy consumption in all-electric mode at 50 kWh per 100 miles, which translates into a combined city/highway fuel economy of 67 miles per gallon gasoline equivalent (MPG-e) (3.5 L/100 km; 80 mpg-imp gasoline equivalent). When powered only by the gasoline engine, EPA's official combined city/highway fuel economy is 22 mpg-US (11 L/100 km; 26 mpg-imp).

The 4.6 litre V-8 petrol engine can recharge an empty battery on about two litres of fuel. The supplied Porsche Universal Charger requires seven hours to charge the battery on a typical 110 volt household AC socket or two hours on a dedicated Charging Dock installed with a 240 volt industrial supply. An optional DC Speed Charging Station can restore the battery to full capacity in 25 minutes.

The 918 Spyder offers five different running modes: E-Drive allows the car to run under battery power alone, using the rear electric motor and front motor, giving a range of 18 miles (29 km) for the concept model. The official U.S. EPA all-electric range is 12 mi (19 km). The total range with a full tank of gasoline and a fully charged battery is 420 miles (680 km) according to EPA tests. Under the E-Drive mode the car can reach 93 mph (150 km/h). Three hybrid modes (Hybrid, Sport and Race) use both the engine and electric motors to provide the desired levels of economy and performance. In Race mode a push-to-pass button initiates the Hot Lap setting, which delivers additional electrical power. The chassis is a carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic monocoque. The 918 has electromechanical brakes.

On July 28, 2010, after 2000 declarations of interest, the Supervisory Board of Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG, Stuttgart, gave the green light for series development of the 918 Spyder.

Sales and production

The production version was unveiled at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show. The 2014 model year 918 Spyder was produced in a limited series and it was developed in Weissach and assembled in Zuffenhausen. Porsche manufacture 918 units as a 2014 model year and production started on November 18, 2013, with deliveries scheduled to begin in December 2013. Sales in the United States began in June 2014. Pricing for the 918 Spyder started at US$845,000 (~ €611,000 or £511,000). According to its battery size, the 918 Spyder was eligible to a federal tax credit of up to US$3,667.

As of November 2014, over 800 units had been ordered worldwide, with planned production sold out through late March or early April 2015. Production ended in June 2015 as scheduled. The entire production was sold out in December 2014. The country with the most orders is the United States with 297 units, followed by China and Germany with approximately 100 orders each.

According to JATO Dynamics, a total of 105 units have been registered worldwide during the first nine months of 2014. The United States is the leading market with 202 units delivered up to May 2015. As of October 2014, a total of 9 units were registered in Switzerland, 6 in the Netherlands, 5 units in Canada, and 4 in Sweden.

RSR

At the 2011 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Porsche unveiled the RSR racing variant of the 918 Spyder. Instead of using plug-in hybrid technology, power for the two electric motors is provided by a flywheel accumulator KERS system that sits beside the driver in the passenger compartment. The V8 is a further development of the direct injection engine from the RS Spyder race car developing 563 horsepower (420 kW). The electric motors each provide an additional 102 horsepower (76 kW), giving a peak power output of 767 horsepower (572 kW). The six speed gearbox is a development of the unit from the RS Spyder.

Nürburgring lap time record:

Porsche announced that on September 4, 2013, a 918 fitted with the optional 'Weissach Package' set a Nürburgring lap time of 6:57 on the 12.8 mi (20.6 km) road course, reducing the previous record by 14 seconds, and making it the first series production street-legal car to break the 7 minute barrier (When the 918 set the record, the fastest time of 6:48 was held by a Radical SR8 LM, however it cannot be converted to street use in certain countries. The current record holder is Pagani Zonda R with a lap time with 6:47, however it is a track only car).

The Porsche 918 Spyder also holds the production car lap record of the Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca with 1:29.89.

[Text from Wikipedia]

This LegoMiniland-scale Porsche 918 Spyder - Martini Racing has been created for Flickr LUGNuts' 94th Build Challenge, - "Appease the Elves Summer Automobile Build-off (Part 2)", - a design challenge combining the resources of LUGNuts, TheLegoCarBlog (TLCB) and Head Turnerz.

Motorized Lego Volkswagen beetle - Red Baron theme

www.youtube.com/watch?v=dYiU84Vksic, www.mocpages.com/moc.php/384440

It is 37 studs long, 19 studs wide and 12 studs high and weighs 589 g.

Two L motors are coupled and geared 5:1. Power is transmitted, without differential to the rear wheels only.

Servo motor for steering

7.4 V rechargeable battery box (easy accessible for charging)

Working 4 cylinder boxer engine.

Working steering wheel (directly connected to second output of servo motor).

Working serpentine belt part which drives fake fan.

Wheel & Tire: 41896/41897 front and rear.

Doors can be opened.

Front and rear seats can be raised.

Fake fuel tank at the front, with filler cap that can be opened.

Functional glove box.

Custom stickers (inspired by Hot Rod Vince's "Black Baron" www.flickr.com/photos/62798028@N08/12811759213/) and chromed details (wheels, mirrors, exhaust, fuel filler cap).

p.s. it has been bloged:

thelegocarblog.com/2014/03/28/red-baron

VIDEO: www.youtube.com/watch?v=iJb54vVIw1s

MOC: www.mocpages.com/moc.php/380997

-It is 50 studs long, 28 studs wide, 17 studs high and weighs 1145g.

-2 L motors are coupled and power is transmitted, trough gearbox, to the rear axle.

-manual gearbox -- 4 gears (5:1, 3:1, 5:3, 1:1).

-lights (front and rear) manually controlled with a lever (behind steering wheel) connected to a speed dial of 8878 battery.

-turn signals (front and rear) connected to a servo motor via coupled PF switches (2 switches) behind driver seat.

-working steering wheel.

-servo motor for steering.

-full independent suspension.

-working V8 fake engine with some details to make it resemble real V8 engine, connected directly to the driving motors so it works at the same speed no matter what gear you choose (in neutral also).

-working radiator fan, connected directly to a V8 engine.

-suicide doors with working door handles.

-working steering wheel.

-rear doors can be opened.

-fake fuel tank.

-Wheel & Tire: 41896/41897 front, 44772/44771. p.s. It has been bloged: thelegocarblog.com/2014/02/25/technic-tuesday/

VIDEO: www.youtube.com/watch?v=iJb54vVIw1s

MOC: www.mocpages.com/moc.php/380997

-It is 50 studs long, 28 studs wide, 17 studs high and weighs 1145g.

-2 L motors are coupled and power is transmitted, trough gearbox, to the rear axle.

-manual gearbox -- 4 gears (5:1, 3:1, 5:3, 1:1).

-lights (front and rear) manually controlled with a lever (behind steering wheel) connected to a speed dial of 8878 battery.

-turn signals (front and rear) connected to a servo motor via coupled PF switches (2 switches) behind driver seat.

-working steering wheel.

-servo motor for steering.

-full independent suspension.

-working V8 fake engine with some details to make it resemble real V8 engine, connected directly to the driving motors so it works at the same speed no matter what gear you choose (in neutral also).

-working radiator fan, connected directly to a V8 engine.

-suicide doors with working door handles.

-working steering wheel.

-rear doors can be opened.

-fake fuel tank.

-Wheel & Tire: 41896/41897 front, 44772/44771. p.s. It has been bloged: thelegocarblog.com/2014/02/25/technic-tuesday/

This is a modification of my hot rod pickup. It still has everything that you might like (motorized/remotely controlled driving/steering, lights, turn signals, working steering wheel, working V8 and radiator fan, working door handles, gearbox…) and some new features (wheels, suspension, engine, roof, front lights, interior, fuel tank, movable license plate, chrome details…). Like the old one, it is 50 studs long and 28 studs wide but it is heavier - it weighs 1285g.

VIDEO: youtu.be/jR0rCEck7_0

Characteristics:

-Leaf spring suspension with height-adjustable rear

-License plate with simple mechanism to hide it (manual)

-Lights (front and rear) manually controlled with a lever connected to a speed dial of 8878 battery (which allows you to switch between low and high beam)

-Turn signals (front and rear) connected to a servo motor via coupled PF switches (2 switches)

-Working steering wheel

-Manual gearbox – 4 gears (5:1, 3:1, 5:3, 1:1)

-Suicide doors with working door handles

-It is powered by two L motors and 7.4 V (8878) rechargeable battery box.

-Servo motor for steering

-Working V8 fake engine with some details to make it resemble real V8 engine, connected directly to the driving motors so it works at the same speed no matter what gear you choose (in neutral also)

-Working radiator fan, connected directly to a V8 engine

-Rear doors can be opened.

-Roof window, fire extinguisher, fuel tank…

-Front tires from 8070 supercar, and rear from 42000 Grand Prix Racer.

I hope you like it, feel free to comment…

p.s. it has been blogged: thelegocarblog.com/2014/07/03/rod-mod/

The BMW i8, first introduced as the BMW Concept Vision Efficient Dynamics, is a plug-in hybrid sports car developed by BMW. The 2015 model year BMW i8 has a 7.1 kWh lithium-ion battery pack that delivers an all-electric range of 37 km (23 mi) under the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC).[5] Under the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) cycle, the range in EV mode is 24 km (15 mi) with a small amount of gasoline consumption.

The BMW i8 can go from 0–100 km/h (0 to 60 mph) in 4.4 seconds and has a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph). The BMW i8 has a fuel efficiency of 2.1 L/100 km (134.5 mpg-imp; 112.0 mpg-US) under the NEDC test with carbon emissions of 49 g/km. EPA rated the i8 combined fuel economy at 76 equivalent (MPG-equivalent) (3.1 L gasoline equivalent/100 km; 91 mpg-imp gasoline equivalent).

The initial turbodiesel concept car was unveiled at the 2009 International Motor Show Germany. The production version of the BMW i8 was unveiled at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show. The i8 was released in Germany in June 2014. Deliveries to retail customers in the U.S. began in August 2014. Global cumulative sales totaled almost 4,500 units through June 2015.

History

The i8 is part of BMW's "Project i" and it is being marketed as a new brand, BMW i, sold separately from BMW or Mini. The BMW i3, launched for retail customers in Europe in the fourth quarter of 2013, was the first model of the i brand available in the market, and it was followed by the i8, released in Germany in June 2014 as a 2015 model year. Other i models are expected to follow.

The initial turbodiesel concept car was unveiled at the 2009 International Motor Show Germany, In 2010, BMW announced the mass production of the Concept Vision Efficient Dynamics in Leipzig beginning in 2013 as the BMW i8. The BMW i8 gasoline-powered concept car destined for production was unveiled at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show. The production version of the BMW i8 was unveiled at the 2013 International Motor Show Germany. The following are the concept and pre-production models developed by BMW that precedeed the production version.

BMW Vision EfficientDynamics (2009)

BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept car is a plug-in hybrid with a three cylinder turbodiesel engine. Additionally, there are two electric motors with 139 horsepower. It allows an acceleration to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.8 seconds and an electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h (160 mph).

According to BMW, the average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle (KV01) is 3.76 liters/100 kilometers, (75.1 mpg imp), and has a carbon dioxide emission rating of 99 grams per kilometer (1,3 l/100 km and 33g CO2/km ; EU-PHEV ECE-R101). The estimated all-electric range is 50 km (31 mi), and the 24-liter petrol tank extends the total vehicle range to up to 700 km (430 mi). The lightweight chassis is made mainly from aluminum. The windshield, top, doors and fenders are made from polycarbonate glass, with the body having a drag coefficient of 0.26.

The designers in charge of the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics Concept were Mario Majdandzic, Exterior Design and Jochen Paesen, Interior Design.

The vehicle was unveiled in 2009 International Motor Show Germany, followed by Auto China 2010.

BMW i8 Concept (2011)

BMW i8 Concept plug-in hybrid electric vehicle includes an electric motor located in the front axle powering the front wheels rated 96 kW (131 PS; 129 hp) and 250 N·m (184 lb·ft), a turbocharged 1.5-liter 3-cylinder gasoline engine driving rear wheels rated 164 kW (223 PS; 220 hp) and 300 N·m (221 lb·ft) of torque, with combined output of 260 kW (354 PS; 349 hp) and 550 N·m (406 lb·ft), a 7.2 kWh (26 MJ) lithium-ion battery pack that allows an all-electric range of 35 km (22 mi). All four wheels provide regenerative braking. The location of the battery pack in the energy tunnel gives the vehicle a low centre of gravity, enhancing its dynamics. Its top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h (160 mph) and is expected to go from 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 60 mph) in 4.6 seconds. Under normal driving conditions the i8 is expected to deliver 80 mpg-US (2.9 L/100 km; 96 mpg-imp) under the European cycle. A full charge of the battery will take less than 2 hours using 220V. The positioning of the motor and engine over the axles results in optimum 50/50 weight distribution.

The vehicle was unveiled at the 2011 International Motor Show Germany, followed by CENTER 548 in New York City, 42nd Tokyo Motor Show 2011, 82nd Geneva Motor Show 2012, BMW i Born Electric Tour at the Palazzo delle Esposizioni at Via Nazionale 194 in Rome, Auto Shanghai 2013.

This concept car was featured in the film Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol.

BMW i8 Concept Spyder (2012)

The BMW i8 Concept Spyder included a slightly shorter wheelbase and overall length over the BMW i8 Concept, carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) Life module, drive modules made primarily from aluminium components, interlocking of surfaces and lines, 8.8-inch (22.4 cm) screen display, off-white outer layer, orange tone naturally tanned leather upholstery.

The vehicle was unveiled in Auto China 2012 in Beijing and won Concept Car of the Year, followed by 83rd Geneva International Motor Show 2013.

The designer of the BMW i8 Concept Spyder was Richard Kim.

BMW i8 coupe prototype (2013)

The design of the BMW i8 coupe prototype was based on the BMW i8 Concept. The BMW i8 prototype has an average fuel efficiency of less than 2.5 L/100 km (113.0 mpg-imp; 94.1 mpg-US) under the New European Driving Cycle with carbon emissions of less than 59 g/km. The i8 with its carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP) passenger cell lightweight, aerodynamically optimized body, and BMW eDrive technology offers the dynamic performance of a sports car, with an expected 0–100 km (0–60 mi) sprint time of less than 4.5 seconds using both power sources. The plug-in hybrid system of the BMW i8 comprises a three-cylinder, 1.5-liter BMW TwinPower turbo gasoline engine combined with BMW eDrive technology used in the BMW i3 and develops maximum power of 170 kW (230 hp). The BMW i8 is the first BMW production model to be powered by a three-cylinder gasoline engine and the resulting specific output of 115 kW (154 hp) per liter of displacement is on a par with high-performance sports car engines and is the highest of any engine produced by the BMW Group.

The BMW i8's second power source is a hybrid synchronous electric motor specially developed and produced by the BMW Group for BMW i. The electric motor develops maximum power of 131 hp (96 kW) and produces its maximum torque of around 320 N·m (240 lbf·ft) from standstill. Typical of an electric motor, responsive power is instantly available when starting and this continues into the higher load ranges. As well as providing a power boost to assist the gasoline engine during acceleration, the electric motor can also power the vehicle by itself. Top speed in electric mode is approximately 120 km/h (75 mph), with a maximum driving range of up to 35 km (22 mi). Linear acceleration is maintained even at higher speeds since the interplay between the two power sources efficiently absorbs any power flow interruptions when shifting gears. The BMW i8 has an electronically controlled top speed of 250 km (160 mi), which can be reached and maintained when the vehicle operates solely on the gasoline engine. The model-specific version of the high-voltage 7.2 lithium-ion battery has a liquid cooling system and can be recharged at a conventional household power socket, at a BMW i Wallbox or at a public charging station. In the US a full recharge takes approximately 3.5 hours from a conventional 120V, 12 amp household circuit or approximately 1.5 hours from a 220V Level 2 charger.

The driver can also select several driving modes: SPORT, COMFORT and ECO PRO. Using the gear selector, the driver can either select position D for automated gear selection or can switch to SPORT mode. SPORT mode offers manual gear selection and at the same time switches to very sporty drive and suspension settings. In SPORT mode, the engine and electric motor deliver extra performance, accelerator response is faster and the power boost from the electric motor is maximized. And to keep the battery topped up, SPORT mode also activates maximum energy recuperation during overrun and braking as the electric motor’s generator function, which recharges the battery using kinetic energy, switches to a more powerful setting. The Driving Experience Control switch on the center console offers a choice of two settings. On starting, COMFORT mode is activated, which offers a balance between sporty performance and fuel efficiency, with unrestricted access to all convenience functions. Alternatively, the ECO PRO mode can be engaged, which, on the BMW i8 as on other models, supports an efficiency-optimized driving style. On this mode the powertrain controller coordinates the cooperation between the gasoline engine and the electric motor for maximum fuel economy. On deceleration, the intelligent energy management system automatically decides, in line with the driving situation and vehicle status, whether to recuperate braking energy or to coast with the powertrain disengaged. At the same time, ECO PRO mode also programs electrical convenience functions such as the air conditioning, seat heating and heated mirrors to operate at minimum power consumption, but without compromising safety. The maximum driving range of the BMW i8 on a full fuel tank and with a fully charged battery is more than 500 km (310 mi) in COMFORT mode, which can be increased by up to 20% in ECO PRO mode. The BMW i8’s ECO PRO mode can also be used during all-electric operation. The vehicle is then powered solely by the electric motor. Only if the battery charge drops below a given level, or under sudden intense throttle application such as kickdown, is the internal combustion engine automatically activated.

The vehicle was unveiled in BMW Group's Miramas test track in France.

Production version

The production BMW i8 was designed by Benoit Jacob. The production version was unveiled at the 2013 International Motor Show Germany, followed by 2013 Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez. It features butterfly doors, head-up display, rear-view cameras and partially false engine noise. Series production of customer vehicles began in April 2014. It is the first production car with laser headlights, reaching further than LED lights.

The i8 has a low vehicle weight of 1,485 kg (3,274 lb) (DIN kerb weight) and a low drag coefficient (Cd) of 0.26. In all-electric mode the BMW i8 has a top speed of 120 km/h (75 mph). In Sport mode the i8 delivers a mid-range acceleration from 80 to 120 km/h (50 to 75 mph) in 2.6 seconds. The electronically controlled top speed is 250 km/h (160 mph).

Range and fuel economy[edit]

The production i8 has a 7.1 kWh lithium-ion battery pack with a usable capacity of 5.2 kWh and intelligent energy management that delivers an all-electric range of 37 km (23 mi) under the NEDC cycle. Under the EPA cycle, the range in EV mode is 15 mi (24 km), with a gasoline consumption of 0.1 gallons per 100 mi, and as a result, EPA's all-electric range is zero. The total range is 330 mi (530 km).

The production version has a fuel efficiency of 2.1 L/100 km (134.5 mpg-imp; 112.0 mpg-US) under the NEDC test with carbon emissions of 49 g/km.[5] Under EPA cycle, the i8 combined fuel economy in EV mode was rated 76 equivalent (MPG-equivalent) (3.1 L gasoline equivalent/100 km; 91 mpg-imp gasoline equivalent), with an energy consumption of 43 kW-hrs/100 mi and gasoline consumption of 0.1 gal-US/100 mi. The combined fuel economy when running only with gasoline is 28 mpg-US (8.4 L/100 km; 34 mpg-imp), 28 mpg-US (8.4 L/100 km; 34 mpg-imp) for city driving, and 29 mpg-US (8.1 L/100 km; 35 mpg-imp) in highway.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's 2014 edition of the "Light-Duty Automotive Technology, Carbon Dioxide Emissions, and Fuel Economy Trends" introduced utility factors for plug-in hybrids to represent the percentage of miles that will be driven using electricity by an average driver, in electric only or blended modes. The BMW i8 has a utility factor in EV mode of 37%, compared with 83% for the BMW i3 REx, 66% for the Chevrolet Volt, 65% for the Cadillac ELR, 45% for the Ford Energi models, 43% for the McLaren P1, 39% for the Porsche Panamera S E-Hybrid, and 29% for the Toyota Prius PHV.

[Text from Wikipedia]

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_i8

This Lego miniland-scale BMW i8 has been created for Flickr LUGNuts' 94th Build Challenge, - "Appease the Elves Summer Automobile Build-off (Part 2)", - a design challenge combining the resources of LUGNuts, TheLegoCarBlog (TLCB) and Head Turnerz.

Car three by Roy Lichtenstein is one of the most popular of all the Art Cars; the BMW 320 Group 5. The artist had this to say on the fruit of his labours: ‘I invested as much thought and effort as possible’. Undeniably! The result of these efforts is a harmonious combination of the aerodynamics in the bodywork with the aesthetics of his art; after all it is one of the fastest moving pieces of art the world has ever seen. Lichtenstein’s famous comic strip style is reflected in the paintwork. ‘The painted lines symbolise the road the car has to follow and the artwork also portrays the surroundings through which the car is being driven’.

BMW Art Car 03 | Roy Lichtenstein | United States | 1977 BMW 320i Group 5 Race Version

Born in New York in 1923, Roy Lichtenstein is generally regarded as the father of American pop art. In the years prior to 1938 he painted portraits of jazz musicians. After this, he attended courses held by the “Art Student League,” then went on to study art in Ohio.

His subsequent work straddled cubism and expressionism. In the late 1950s, Lichtenstein began dealing with trivial culture such as comics and advertisements. His first pop art pictures appeared in 1961, their monumentalization of the banal heralding a completely new style of art.

Following his caricatures of the “American Way of Life,” experiments with well-known works of art and various sculptures and films, the Museum of Modern Art in New York held a comprehensive retrospective of Lichtenstein’s work in 1987. He died in New York in 1997.

Technical Data: 1977 BMW 320i Group 5 Race Version

4-cylinder inline engine

Turbocharged

4 valves per cylinder

Twin overhead camshafts

Displacement: 2,000 cc

Power output: 300 bhp

Top speed: 257 km/h

Roy Lichtenstein and his BMW Art Car

Roy Lichtenstein can still remember vividly how he produced the design for his racing car – a BMW 320i – back in 1977:

“I wanted to use painted lines as a road, pointing the way for the car. The design also shows the scenery as it passes by. Even the sky and sunlight are to be seen … you could list all the things a car experiences – the only difference is that this car mirrors all these things even before it takes to the road.”

Taking a closer look, the car’s design casts a picture of passing scenery in which both the car and its movement are one single entity. And although Lichtenstein’s comic art was already a thing of the past by then, his BMW Art Car is clearly influence by it: the long-drawn colored strips act as “speedlines” – a feature used in comics to suggest speed. Even the oversized dots used by Lichtenstein, the “Benday Dots,” are reminiscent of his famous comic book pictures.

“I thought hard and put all I had into it.”

— Roy Lichtenstein

The harmony achieved between predetermined aerodynamic features and free composition is pure Lichtenstein. It is an expression of his artistic credo: art must be an element of everyday life – its themes and inspiration must come from the lives of ordinary people.

After its completion, Roy Lichtenstein’s BMW Art Car celebrated not one, but two premieres: as a work of art at the Centre Pompidou in Paris, and as a racing car in the Le Mans 24-Hour Race. It was driven by the Frenchmen Herve Poulain and Marcel Mignot. The car finished 9th overall and first in its class.

[Test from BMW Art Car Collection.com]

www.bmwartcarcollection.com/2011/05/03-roy-lichtenstein-b...

This Lego miniland scale BMW Art Car #3 - 320 Group 5 Racer (Roy Lichtenstain 1977) has been created for Flickr LUGNuts' 96th Build Challenge - The 8th Birthday, titled - 'Happy Crazy Eight Birthday, LUGNuts' - where all previous build challenges are available to build to. This model is built to the LUGNuts 94th build challenge, - &quotAppease the Elves Summer Automobile Build-off (Part 2)" - a design challenge combining the resources of LUGNuts, TheLegoCarBlog (TLCB) and Head Turnerz.

This was one of the cars I had prepared for the TCLB / Head Turnerz Challenge, had built 90% of the way there in bricks, had a few parts to go that weren't in my collection, and stopped. Unfortunately, the built model is still in this state.

First generation (1950–1954)

Overview:

Production1949–1954

AssemblySouth Gate, California, (South Gate Assembly)

Tarrytown, New York, (North Tarrytown Assembly)

Lakewood Heights, Georgia, (Lakewood Assembly)

Flint, Michigan, (Flint Assembly)

St. Louis, Missouri, (St. Louis Assembly)

Oakland, California, (Oakland Assembly)

Norwood, Ohio, (Norwood Assembly)

Body and chassis

Body style2-door hardtop

2-door coupe (1953–54)

4-door Sedan (1953–54)

2-door convertible

(1953–54)

4-door Station wagon (1954)

PlatformGM A Body

Powertrain

Engine215.5 cu in (3.5 L) "Thriftmaster" 1-bbl. valve-in-head 92 hp I6

235.5 cu in (3.9 L) Blue Flame I6

Transmission3-speed manual

2-speed powerglide auto.

Dimensions

Wheelbase115"

Length197.5"(1950–1952); 196.5"(1954)

Curb weight3,345

For 1950, Chevrolet came up with a revolutionary style that would set a pattern for decades. The Bel Air Hardtop was styled as a convertible with a non-detachable solid roof. Models like this had been around since the 1920s, including early Chevrolets, with no degree of success. But the newly revised idea, sweeping the GM line from Chevrolet to Cadillac, had finally found its era. First year production reached only 76,662 as buyers cautiously tested the revised concept. The car cost $1,741 and weighed 3,225 lb (1,463 kg). Front suspension was independent, named "knee-action".

The first Bel Airs of this era shared only their front sheetmetal ahead of the A pillar with the rest of the range. The Windshield, doors, glass, and trunk were common with the Styline DeLuxe Convertible Coupe, however the roof, rear quarters and rear windows were unique. The chassis and mechanicals are common with the rest of the passenger car range, and the overall appearance is the same as the rest of the range except that the roof line is lower and the unique three piece rear screen give it a longer and more balanced look. The first Bel Airs were only available with the "DeLuxe" premium trim level and specification.

Apart from the usual annual grille and trim changes the 1951-52 Bel Air differs from the earlier 1950 model with introduction of the higher and squarer rear guards that were across the whole range.

In 1953 Chevrolet renamed its series and the Bel Air name was applied to the premium model range. Two lower series, the 150 and 210, also emerged (as successors to the Special and Deluxe series, respectively). The 1953 Chevrolet was advertised as "Entirely new through and through," due to the restyled body panels, front and rear ends. However, essentially these Chevrolets had similar frame and mechanicals to the 1949-52 cars. The 1053-54 Chevrolet range had a unique and somewhat awkward look about it and much of this stemmed from its role as a transitional model to introduce a raft of changes that were necessary to pave the way for the introduction of the 1955-57 range that really established the Bel Air as a cultural icon. The pre-war technology: such as torque tube drive, six-cylinder splash feed engines, knee action suspension, split windshields, etc., of the early models was phased out and the foundations for the first post war modern Chevrolet passenger car were finalized in this 1953-54 model. Of all the Bel Air variants available across the 1953-54 range the two door hardtop and convertible remain the stand outs in terms of style. The Bel Air series featured a wide chrome strip of molding from the rear fender bulge, to the rear bumper. The inside of this stripe was painted a coordinating color with the outside body color, and "Bel Air" scripts were added inside the strip. Lesser models had no model designation anywhere on the car, only having a Chevy crest on the hood and trunk. 1953 was the first year for a curved, one-piece windshield. Bel Air interiors had an optional massive expanse of chrome across the lower part of the dashboard (most were painted), along with a deluxe Bel Air steering wheel with full chrome horn ring. Carpeting and full wheel covers rounded out Bel Air standard equipment. For 1954, the Bel Air stayed essentially the same, except for a revised grille and taillights, and a revised engine that had insert bearings and higher oil pressure, needed for the full-flow oil filtration system that was not available prior to 1954. Prior to 1954, the 235 and 216 cubic inch six cylinder engines had babbit bearings and scoops to create oil pressure at the bottom of each rod and the oil pressure was standard at 15-30 PSI. During these years, there were three engine choices, depending on the transmission ordered. Both 235 cubic inch engines were "Blue Flame" inline six cylinder OHV engines, featuring hydraulic valve lifters (in 1953 with automatic transmissions) and aluminum pistons. The 106 hp (79 kW) 235 cubic inch displacement engine was standard on stickshift models, with solid lifters and splash plus pressure lubrication including babbit bearings. Powerglide cars got a 115 hp (86 kW) version which had hydraulic lifters and full pressure lubrication.

In 1953 and 1954, Bel Airs could be ordered in convertible, hardtop coupe, two- and four-door sedans, and, for 1954, the Beauville station wagon which featured woodgrain trim around the side windows. Many new options, once available only to more expensive luxury cars, became offered starting in 1953, including power steering and the Guidematic headlight dimmer in 1953; and power brakes, power 2-way front seat and power front windows in 1954. All 1954 models equipped with the standard transmission used the 1953 Powerglide engine.

[Text from Wikipedia]

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chevrolet_Bel_Air

This Lego MotorCity-scale 1953 Chevrolet Bel Air Hardtop

has been created for Flickr LUGNuts' 94th Build Challenge, - "Appease the Elves Summer Automobile Build-off (Part 2)", - a design challenge combining the resources of LUGNuts, TheLegoCarBlog (TLCB) and Head Turnerz.

The Porsche 918 Spyder is a mid-engined plug-in hybrid sports car designed by Porsche. The Spyder is powered by a naturally-aspirated 4.6 litre V8 engine, developing 608 horsepower (453 kW), with two electric motors delivering an additional 279 horsepower (208 kW) for a combined output of 887 horsepower (661 kW). The 918 Spyder's 6.8 kWh lithium-ion battery pack delivers an all-electric range of 19 km (12 mi) under EPA's five-cycle tests. The car has a top speed of around 340 km/h (210 mph).

The 918 Spyder is a limited edition sports car, with 918 units manufactured and sold as a 2014 model year. Production began on September 18, 2013, with deliveries initially scheduled to begin in December 2013. The starting price was US$847,000. The 918 Spyder was the second plug-in hybrid car from Porsche, after the 2014 Panamera S E-Hybrid. The 918 Spyder was sold out in December 2014. The country with the most orders was the United States with 297 units. Production ended in June 2015.

The 918 Spyder was first shown as a concept at the 80th Geneva Motor Show in March 2010. The production version was unveiled at the September 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show. Porsche also unveiled the RSR racing variant of the 918 at the 2011 North American International Auto Show, which combines hybrid technology first used in the 997 GT3 R Hybrid, with styling from the 918 Spyder.

Specifications

The 918 Spyder is a mid-engined two-seater sports car designed by Michael Mauer.[11] It is powered by a 4.6 litre V8 engine. The engine is built on the same architecture as the one used in the RS Spyder Le Mans Prototype racing car without any engine belts.

The engine weighs 135 kg according to Porsche and it delivers 608 horsepower (453 kW) at 8,500 rpm and 528 N·m (389 lbf·ft) of maximum torque. This is supplemented by two electric motors delivering an additional 279 hp (208 kW). One 154 hp (115 kW) electric motor drives the rear wheels in parallel with the engine and also serves as the main generator. This motor and engine deliver power to the rear axle via a 7-speed gearbox coupled to Porsche's own PDK double-clutch system. The front 125 hp (93 kW) electric motor directly drives the front axle; an electric clutch decouples the motor when not in use. The total system delivers 887 hp (661 kW) and 1,280 N·m (940 lbf·ft) of torque. By October 2012 the engineering design was not finalized, but Porsche provided performance figures of 0–100 km/h (62 mph) in 2.5 seconds, 0-200 km/h (120 mph) in 7.2 seconds, 300 kilometres per hour (190 mph) in 19.9 seconds and a tested top speed of 218 miles per hour (351 km/h). In Car and Driver's independent test of the Porsche 918, C/D achieved 0-60 mph in 2.2 seconds (making it the fastest car C/D has ever tested), 0-100 mph in 4.9 seconds, 0-180 mph in 17.5 seconds, and the 1/4 mile in 9.8 seconds. In Motor Trend's independent test of the Porsche 918, they also claimed it was the fastest car to 60 mph that they had ever tested. It stopped from 60-0 mph in 94 feet, and broke Motor Trend's figure 8 record at 22.2 seconds.

The energy storage system is a 312-cell, liquid-cooled 6.8 kW·h lithium-ion battery positioned behind the passenger cell. In addition to a plug-in charge port at the passenger-side B-pillar, the batteries are also charged by regenerative braking and by excess output from the engine when the car is coasting. CO2 emissions are 79 g/km and fuel consumption is 3.0 L/100 km (94 imperial mpg/78 us mpg) under the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC). The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) under its five-cycle tests rated the 2015 model year Porsche 918 Spyder energy consumption in all-electric mode at 50 kWh per 100 miles, which translates into a combined city/highway fuel economy of 67 miles per gallon gasoline equivalent (MPG-e) (3.5 L/100 km; 80 mpg-imp gasoline equivalent). When powered only by the gasoline engine, EPA's official combined city/highway fuel economy is 22 mpg-US (11 L/100 km; 26 mpg-imp).

The 4.6 litre V-8 petrol engine can recharge an empty battery on about two litres of fuel. The supplied Porsche Universal Charger requires seven hours to charge the battery on a typical 110 volt household AC socket or two hours on a dedicated Charging Dock installed with a 240 volt industrial supply. An optional DC Speed Charging Station can restore the battery to full capacity in 25 minutes.

The 918 Spyder offers five different running modes: E-Drive allows the car to run under battery power alone, using the rear electric motor and front motor, giving a range of 18 miles (29 km) for the concept model. The official U.S. EPA all-electric range is 12 mi (19 km). The total range with a full tank of gasoline and a fully charged battery is 420 miles (680 km) according to EPA tests. Under the E-Drive mode the car can reach 93 mph (150 km/h). Three hybrid modes (Hybrid, Sport and Race) use both the engine and electric motors to provide the desired levels of economy and performance. In Race mode a push-to-pass button initiates the Hot Lap setting, which delivers additional electrical power. The chassis is a carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic monocoque. The 918 has electromechanical brakes.

On July 28, 2010, after 2000 declarations of interest, the Supervisory Board of Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG, Stuttgart, gave the green light for series development of the 918 Spyder.

Sales and production

The production version was unveiled at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show. The 2014 model year 918 Spyder was produced in a limited series and it was developed in Weissach and assembled in Zuffenhausen. Porsche manufacture 918 units as a 2014 model year and production started on November 18, 2013, with deliveries scheduled to begin in December 2013. Sales in the United States began in June 2014. Pricing for the 918 Spyder started at US$845,000 (~ €611,000 or £511,000). According to its battery size, the 918 Spyder was eligible to a federal tax credit of up to US$3,667.

As of November 2014, over 800 units had been ordered worldwide, with planned production sold out through late March or early April 2015. Production ended in June 2015 as scheduled. The entire production was sold out in December 2014. The country with the most orders is the United States with 297 units, followed by China and Germany with approximately 100 orders each.

According to JATO Dynamics, a total of 105 units have been registered worldwide during the first nine months of 2014. The United States is the leading market with 202 units delivered up to May 2015. As of October 2014, a total of 9 units were registered in Switzerland, 6 in the Netherlands, 5 units in Canada, and 4 in Sweden.

RSR

At the 2011 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Porsche unveiled the RSR racing variant of the 918 Spyder. Instead of using plug-in hybrid technology, power for the two electric motors is provided by a flywheel accumulator KERS system that sits beside the driver in the passenger compartment. The V8 is a further development of the direct injection engine from the RS Spyder race car developing 563 horsepower (420 kW). The electric motors each provide an additional 102 horsepower (76 kW), giving a peak power output of 767 horsepower (572 kW). The six speed gearbox is a development of the unit from the RS Spyder.

Nürburgring lap time record:

Porsche announced that on September 4, 2013, a 918 fitted with the optional 'Weissach Package' set a Nürburgring lap time of 6:57 on the 12.8 mi (20.6 km) road course, reducing the previous record by 14 seconds, and making it the first series production street-legal car to break the 7 minute barrier (When the 918 set the record, the fastest time of 6:48 was held by a Radical SR8 LM, however it cannot be converted to street use in certain countries. The current record holder is Pagani Zonda R with a lap time with 6:47, however it is a track only car).

The Porsche 918 Spyder also holds the production car lap record of the Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca with 1:29.89.

[Text from Wikipedia]

This LegoMiniland-scale Porsche 918 Spyder - Martini Racing has been created for Flickr LUGNuts' 94th Build Challenge, - "Appease the Elves Summer Automobile Build-off (Part 2)", - a design challenge combining the resources of LUGNuts, TheLegoCarBlog (TLCB) and Head Turnerz.

The BMW i8, first introduced as the BMW Concept Vision Efficient Dynamics, is a plug-in hybrid sports car developed by BMW. The 2015 model year BMW i8 has a 7.1 kWh lithium-ion battery pack that delivers an all-electric range of 37 km (23 mi) under the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC).[5] Under the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) cycle, the range in EV mode is 24 km (15 mi) with a small amount of gasoline consumption.

The BMW i8 can go from 0–100 km/h (0 to 60 mph) in 4.4 seconds and has a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph). The BMW i8 has a fuel efficiency of 2.1 L/100 km (134.5 mpg-imp; 112.0 mpg-US) under the NEDC test with carbon emissions of 49 g/km. EPA rated the i8 combined fuel economy at 76 equivalent (MPG-equivalent) (3.1 L gasoline equivalent/100 km; 91 mpg-imp gasoline equivalent).

The initial turbodiesel concept car was unveiled at the 2009 International Motor Show Germany. The production version of the BMW i8 was unveiled at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show. The i8 was released in Germany in June 2014. Deliveries to retail customers in the U.S. began in August 2014. Global cumulative sales totaled almost 4,500 units through June 2015.

History

The i8 is part of BMW's "Project i" and it is being marketed as a new brand, BMW i, sold separately from BMW or Mini. The BMW i3, launched for retail customers in Europe in the fourth quarter of 2013, was the first model of the i brand available in the market, and it was followed by the i8, released in Germany in June 2014 as a 2015 model year. Other i models are expected to follow.

The initial turbodiesel concept car was unveiled at the 2009 International Motor Show Germany, In 2010, BMW announced the mass production of the Concept Vision Efficient Dynamics in Leipzig beginning in 2013 as the BMW i8. The BMW i8 gasoline-powered concept car destined for production was unveiled at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show. The production version of the BMW i8 was unveiled at the 2013 International Motor Show Germany. The following are the concept and pre-production models developed by BMW that precedeed the production version.

BMW Vision EfficientDynamics (2009)

BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept car is a plug-in hybrid with a three cylinder turbodiesel engine. Additionally, there are two electric motors with 139 horsepower. It allows an acceleration to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.8 seconds and an electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h (160 mph).

According to BMW, the average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle (KV01) is 3.76 liters/100 kilometers, (75.1 mpg imp), and has a carbon dioxide emission rating of 99 grams per kilometer (1,3 l/100 km and 33g CO2/km ; EU-PHEV ECE-R101). The estimated all-electric range is 50 km (31 mi), and the 24-liter petrol tank extends the total vehicle range to up to 700 km (430 mi). The lightweight chassis is made mainly from aluminum. The windshield, top, doors and fenders are made from polycarbonate glass, with the body having a drag coefficient of 0.26.

The designers in charge of the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics Concept were Mario Majdandzic, Exterior Design and Jochen Paesen, Interior Design.

The vehicle was unveiled in 2009 International Motor Show Germany, followed by Auto China 2010.

BMW i8 Concept (2011)

BMW i8 Concept plug-in hybrid electric vehicle includes an electric motor located in the front axle powering the front wheels rated 96 kW (131 PS; 129 hp) and 250 N·m (184 lb·ft), a turbocharged 1.5-liter 3-cylinder gasoline engine driving rear wheels rated 164 kW (223 PS; 220 hp) and 300 N·m (221 lb·ft) of torque, with combined output of 260 kW (354 PS; 349 hp) and 550 N·m (406 lb·ft), a 7.2 kWh (26 MJ) lithium-ion battery pack that allows an all-electric range of 35 km (22 mi). All four wheels provide regenerative braking. The location of the battery pack in the energy tunnel gives the vehicle a low centre of gravity, enhancing its dynamics. Its top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h (160 mph) and is expected to go from 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 60 mph) in 4.6 seconds. Under normal driving conditions the i8 is expected to deliver 80 mpg-US (2.9 L/100 km; 96 mpg-imp) under the European cycle. A full charge of the battery will take less than 2 hours using 220V. The positioning of the motor and engine over the axles results in optimum 50/50 weight distribution.

The vehicle was unveiled at the 2011 International Motor Show Germany, followed by CENTER 548 in New York City, 42nd Tokyo Motor Show 2011, 82nd Geneva Motor Show 2012, BMW i Born Electric Tour at the Palazzo delle Esposizioni at Via Nazionale 194 in Rome, Auto Shanghai 2013.

This concept car was featured in the film Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol.

BMW i8 Concept Spyder (2012)

The BMW i8 Concept Spyder included a slightly shorter wheelbase and overall length over the BMW i8 Concept, carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) Life module, drive modules made primarily from aluminium components, interlocking of surfaces and lines, 8.8-inch (22.4 cm) screen display, off-white outer layer, orange tone naturally tanned leather upholstery.

The vehicle was unveiled in Auto China 2012 in Beijing and won Concept Car of the Year, followed by 83rd Geneva International Motor Show 2013.

The designer of the BMW i8 Concept Spyder was Richard Kim.

BMW i8 coupe prototype (2013)

The design of the BMW i8 coupe prototype was based on the BMW i8 Concept. The BMW i8 prototype has an average fuel efficiency of less than 2.5 L/100 km (113.0 mpg-imp; 94.1 mpg-US) under the New European Driving Cycle with carbon emissions of less than 59 g/km. The i8 with its carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP) passenger cell lightweight, aerodynamically optimized body, and BMW eDrive technology offers the dynamic performance of a sports car, with an expected 0–100 km (0–60 mi) sprint time of less than 4.5 seconds using both power sources. The plug-in hybrid system of the BMW i8 comprises a three-cylinder, 1.5-liter BMW TwinPower turbo gasoline engine combined with BMW eDrive technology used in the BMW i3 and develops maximum power of 170 kW (230 hp). The BMW i8 is the first BMW production model to be powered by a three-cylinder gasoline engine and the resulting specific output of 115 kW (154 hp) per liter of displacement is on a par with high-performance sports car engines and is the highest of any engine produced by the BMW Group.

The BMW i8's second power source is a hybrid synchronous electric motor specially developed and produced by the BMW Group for BMW i. The electric motor develops maximum power of 131 hp (96 kW) and produces its maximum torque of around 320 N·m (240 lbf·ft) from standstill. Typical of an electric motor, responsive power is instantly available when starting and this continues into the higher load ranges. As well as providing a power boost to assist the gasoline engine during acceleration, the electric motor can also power the vehicle by itself. Top speed in electric mode is approximately 120 km/h (75 mph), with a maximum driving range of up to 35 km (22 mi). Linear acceleration is maintained even at higher speeds since the interplay between the two power sources efficiently absorbs any power flow interruptions when shifting gears. The BMW i8 has an electronically controlled top speed of 250 km (160 mi), which can be reached and maintained when the vehicle operates solely on the gasoline engine. The model-specific version of the high-voltage 7.2 lithium-ion battery has a liquid cooling system and can be recharged at a conventional household power socket, at a BMW i Wallbox or at a public charging station. In the US a full recharge takes approximately 3.5 hours from a conventional 120V, 12 amp household circuit or approximately 1.5 hours from a 220V Level 2 charger.

The driver can also select several driving modes: SPORT, COMFORT and ECO PRO. Using the gear selector, the driver can either select position D for automated gear selection or can switch to SPORT mode. SPORT mode offers manual gear selection and at the same time switches to very sporty drive and suspension settings. In SPORT mode, the engine and electric motor deliver extra performance, accelerator response is faster and the power boost from the electric motor is maximized. And to keep the battery topped up, SPORT mode also activates maximum energy recuperation during overrun and braking as the electric motor’s generator function, which recharges the battery using kinetic energy, switches to a more powerful setting. The Driving Experience Control switch on the center console offers a choice of two settings. On starting, COMFORT mode is activated, which offers a balance between sporty performance and fuel efficiency, with unrestricted access to all convenience functions. Alternatively, the ECO PRO mode can be engaged, which, on the BMW i8 as on other models, supports an efficiency-optimized driving style. On this mode the powertrain controller coordinates the cooperation between the gasoline engine and the electric motor for maximum fuel economy. On deceleration, the intelligent energy management system automatically decides, in line with the driving situation and vehicle status, whether to recuperate braking energy or to coast with the powertrain disengaged. At the same time, ECO PRO mode also programs electrical convenience functions such as the air conditioning, seat heating and heated mirrors to operate at minimum power consumption, but without compromising safety. The maximum driving range of the BMW i8 on a full fuel tank and with a fully charged battery is more than 500 km (310 mi) in COMFORT mode, which can be increased by up to 20% in ECO PRO mode. The BMW i8’s ECO PRO mode can also be used during all-electric operation. The vehicle is then powered solely by the electric motor. Only if the battery charge drops below a given level, or under sudden intense throttle application such as kickdown, is the internal combustion engine automatically activated.

The vehicle was unveiled in BMW Group's Miramas test track in France.

Production version

The production BMW i8 was designed by Benoit Jacob. The production version was unveiled at the 2013 International Motor Show Germany, followed by 2013 Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez. It features butterfly doors, head-up display, rear-view cameras and partially false engine noise. Series production of customer vehicles began in April 2014. It is the first production car with laser headlights, reaching further than LED lights.

The i8 has a low vehicle weight of 1,485 kg (3,274 lb) (DIN kerb weight) and a low drag coefficient (Cd) of 0.26. In all-electric mode the BMW i8 has a top speed of 120 km/h (75 mph). In Sport mode the i8 delivers a mid-range acceleration from 80 to 120 km/h (50 to 75 mph) in 2.6 seconds. The electronically controlled top speed is 250 km/h (160 mph).

Range and fuel economy[edit]

The production i8 has a 7.1 kWh lithium-ion battery pack with a usable capacity of 5.2 kWh and intelligent energy management that delivers an all-electric range of 37 km (23 mi) under the NEDC cycle. Under the EPA cycle, the range in EV mode is 15 mi (24 km), with a gasoline consumption of 0.1 gallons per 100 mi, and as a result, EPA's all-electric range is zero. The total range is 330 mi (530 km).

The production version has a fuel efficiency of 2.1 L/100 km (134.5 mpg-imp; 112.0 mpg-US) under the NEDC test with carbon emissions of 49 g/km.[5] Under EPA cycle, the i8 combined fuel economy in EV mode was rated 76 equivalent (MPG-equivalent) (3.1 L gasoline equivalent/100 km; 91 mpg-imp gasoline equivalent), with an energy consumption of 43 kW-hrs/100 mi and gasoline consumption of 0.1 gal-US/100 mi. The combined fuel economy when running only with gasoline is 28 mpg-US (8.4 L/100 km; 34 mpg-imp), 28 mpg-US (8.4 L/100 km; 34 mpg-imp) for city driving, and 29 mpg-US (8.1 L/100 km; 35 mpg-imp) in highway.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's 2014 edition of the "Light-Duty Automotive Technology, Carbon Dioxide Emissions, and Fuel Economy Trends" introduced utility factors for plug-in hybrids to represent the percentage of miles that will be driven using electricity by an average driver, in electric only or blended modes. The BMW i8 has a utility factor in EV mode of 37%, compared with 83% for the BMW i3 REx, 66% for the Chevrolet Volt, 65% for the Cadillac ELR, 45% for the Ford Energi models, 43% for the McLaren P1, 39% for the Porsche Panamera S E-Hybrid, and 29% for the Toyota Prius PHV.

[Text from Wikipedia]

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_i8

This Lego miniland-scale BMW i8 has been created for Flickr LUGNuts' 94th Build Challenge, - "Appease the Elves Summer Automobile Build-off (Part 2)", - a design challenge combining the resources of LUGNuts, TheLegoCarBlog (TLCB) and Head Turnerz.

The BMW i8, first introduced as the BMW Concept Vision Efficient Dynamics, is a plug-in hybrid sports car developed by BMW. The 2015 model year BMW i8 has a 7.1 kWh lithium-ion battery pack that delivers an all-electric range of 37 km (23 mi) under the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC).[5] Under the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) cycle, the range in EV mode is 24 km (15 mi) with a small amount of gasoline consumption.

The BMW i8 can go from 0–100 km/h (0 to 60 mph) in 4.4 seconds and has a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph). The BMW i8 has a fuel efficiency of 2.1 L/100 km (134.5 mpg-imp; 112.0 mpg-US) under the NEDC test with carbon emissions of 49 g/km. EPA rated the i8 combined fuel economy at 76 equivalent (MPG-equivalent) (3.1 L gasoline equivalent/100 km; 91 mpg-imp gasoline equivalent).

The initial turbodiesel concept car was unveiled at the 2009 International Motor Show Germany. The production version of the BMW i8 was unveiled at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show. The i8 was released in Germany in June 2014. Deliveries to retail customers in the U.S. began in August 2014. Global cumulative sales totaled almost 4,500 units through June 2015.

History

The i8 is part of BMW's "Project i" and it is being marketed as a new brand, BMW i, sold separately from BMW or Mini. The BMW i3, launched for retail customers in Europe in the fourth quarter of 2013, was the first model of the i brand available in the market, and it was followed by the i8, released in Germany in June 2014 as a 2015 model year. Other i models are expected to follow.

The initial turbodiesel concept car was unveiled at the 2009 International Motor Show Germany, In 2010, BMW announced the mass production of the Concept Vision Efficient Dynamics in Leipzig beginning in 2013 as the BMW i8. The BMW i8 gasoline-powered concept car destined for production was unveiled at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show. The production version of the BMW i8 was unveiled at the 2013 International Motor Show Germany. The following are the concept and pre-production models developed by BMW that precedeed the production version.

BMW Vision EfficientDynamics (2009)

BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept car is a plug-in hybrid with a three cylinder turbodiesel engine. Additionally, there are two electric motors with 139 horsepower. It allows an acceleration to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.8 seconds and an electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h (160 mph).

According to BMW, the average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle (KV01) is 3.76 liters/100 kilometers, (75.1 mpg imp), and has a carbon dioxide emission rating of 99 grams per kilometer (1,3 l/100 km and 33g CO2/km ; EU-PHEV ECE-R101). The estimated all-electric range is 50 km (31 mi), and the 24-liter petrol tank extends the total vehicle range to up to 700 km (430 mi). The lightweight chassis is made mainly from aluminum. The windshield, top, doors and fenders are made from polycarbonate glass, with the body having a drag coefficient of 0.26.

The designers in charge of the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics Concept were Mario Majdandzic, Exterior Design and Jochen Paesen, Interior Design.

The vehicle was unveiled in 2009 International Motor Show Germany, followed by Auto China 2010.

BMW i8 Concept (2011)

BMW i8 Concept plug-in hybrid electric vehicle includes an electric motor located in the front axle powering the front wheels rated 96 kW (131 PS; 129 hp) and 250 N·m (184 lb·ft), a turbocharged 1.5-liter 3-cylinder gasoline engine driving rear wheels rated 164 kW (223 PS; 220 hp) and 300 N·m (221 lb·ft) of torque, with combined output of 260 kW (354 PS; 349 hp) and 550 N·m (406 lb·ft), a 7.2 kWh (26 MJ) lithium-ion battery pack that allows an all-electric range of 35 km (22 mi). All four wheels provide regenerative braking. The location of the battery pack in the energy tunnel gives the vehicle a low centre of gravity, enhancing its dynamics. Its top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h (160 mph) and is expected to go from 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 60 mph) in 4.6 seconds. Under normal driving conditions the i8 is expected to deliver 80 mpg-US (2.9 L/100 km; 96 mpg-imp) under the European cycle. A full charge of the battery will take less than 2 hours using 220V. The positioning of the motor and engine over the axles results in optimum 50/50 weight distribution.

The vehicle was unveiled at the 2011 International Motor Show Germany, followed by CENTER 548 in New York City, 42nd Tokyo Motor Show 2011, 82nd Geneva Motor Show 2012, BMW i Born Electric Tour at the Palazzo delle Esposizioni at Via Nazionale 194 in Rome, Auto Shanghai 2013.

This concept car was featured in the film Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol.

BMW i8 Concept Spyder (2012)

The BMW i8 Concept Spyder included a slightly shorter wheelbase and overall length over the BMW i8 Concept, carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) Life module, drive modules made primarily from aluminium components, interlocking of surfaces and lines, 8.8-inch (22.4 cm) screen display, off-white outer layer, orange tone naturally tanned leather upholstery.

The vehicle was unveiled in Auto China 2012 in Beijing and won Concept Car of the Year, followed by 83rd Geneva International Motor Show 2013.

The designer of the BMW i8 Concept Spyder was Richard Kim.

BMW i8 coupe prototype (2013)

The design of the BMW i8 coupe prototype was based on the BMW i8 Concept. The BMW i8 prototype has an average fuel efficiency of less than 2.5 L/100 km (113.0 mpg-imp; 94.1 mpg-US) under the New European Driving Cycle with carbon emissions of less than 59 g/km. The i8 with its carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP) passenger cell lightweight, aerodynamically optimized body, and BMW eDrive technology offers the dynamic performance of a sports car, with an expected 0–100 km (0–60 mi) sprint time of less than 4.5 seconds using both power sources. The plug-in hybrid system of the BMW i8 comprises a three-cylinder, 1.5-liter BMW TwinPower turbo gasoline engine combined with BMW eDrive technology used in the BMW i3 and develops maximum power of 170 kW (230 hp). The BMW i8 is the first BMW production model to be powered by a three-cylinder gasoline engine and the resulting specific output of 115 kW (154 hp) per liter of displacement is on a par with high-performance sports car engines and is the highest of any engine produced by the BMW Group.

The BMW i8's second power source is a hybrid synchronous electric motor specially developed and produced by the BMW Group for BMW i. The electric motor develops maximum power of 131 hp (96 kW) and produces its maximum torque of around 320 N·m (240 lbf·ft) from standstill. Typical of an electric motor, responsive power is instantly available when starting and this continues into the higher load ranges. As well as providing a power boost to assist the gasoline engine during acceleration, the electric motor can also power the vehicle by itself. Top speed in electric mode is approximately 120 km/h (75 mph), with a maximum driving range of up to 35 km (22 mi). Linear acceleration is maintained even at higher speeds since the interplay between the two power sources efficiently absorbs any power flow interruptions when shifting gears. The BMW i8 has an electronically controlled top speed of 250 km (160 mi), which can be reached and maintained when the vehicle operates solely on the gasoline engine. The model-specific version of the high-voltage 7.2 lithium-ion battery has a liquid cooling system and can be recharged at a conventional household power socket, at a BMW i Wallbox or at a public charging station. In the US a full recharge takes approximately 3.5 hours from a conventional 120V, 12 amp household circuit or approximately 1.5 hours from a 220V Level 2 charger.

The driver can also select several driving modes: SPORT, COMFORT and ECO PRO. Using the gear selector, the driver can either select position D for automated gear selection or can switch to SPORT mode. SPORT mode offers manual gear selection and at the same time switches to very sporty drive and suspension settings. In SPORT mode, the engine and electric motor deliver extra performance, accelerator response is faster and the power boost from the electric motor is maximized. And to keep the battery topped up, SPORT mode also activates maximum energy recuperation during overrun and braking as the electric motor’s generator function, which recharges the battery using kinetic energy, switches to a more powerful setting. The Driving Experience Control switch on the center console offers a choice of two settings. On starting, COMFORT mode is activated, which offers a balance between sporty performance and fuel efficiency, with unrestricted access to all convenience functions. Alternatively, the ECO PRO mode can be engaged, which, on the BMW i8 as on other models, supports an efficiency-optimized driving style. On this mode the powertrain controller coordinates the cooperation between the gasoline engine and the electric motor for maximum fuel economy. On deceleration, the intelligent energy management system automatically decides, in line with the driving situation and vehicle status, whether to recuperate braking energy or to coast with the powertrain disengaged. At the same time, ECO PRO mode also programs electrical convenience functions such as the air conditioning, seat heating and heated mirrors to operate at minimum power consumption, but without compromising safety. The maximum driving range of the BMW i8 on a full fuel tank and with a fully charged battery is more than 500 km (310 mi) in COMFORT mode, which can be increased by up to 20% in ECO PRO mode. The BMW i8’s ECO PRO mode can also be used during all-electric operation. The vehicle is then powered solely by the electric motor. Only if the battery charge drops below a given level, or under sudden intense throttle application such as kickdown, is the internal combustion engine automatically activated.

The vehicle was unveiled in BMW Group's Miramas test track in France.

Production version

The production BMW i8 was designed by Benoit Jacob. The production version was unveiled at the 2013 International Motor Show Germany, followed by 2013 Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez. It features butterfly doors, head-up display, rear-view cameras and partially false engine noise. Series production of customer vehicles began in April 2014. It is the first production car with laser headlights, reaching further than LED lights.

The i8 has a low vehicle weight of 1,485 kg (3,274 lb) (DIN kerb weight) and a low drag coefficient (Cd) of 0.26. In all-electric mode the BMW i8 has a top speed of 120 km/h (75 mph). In Sport mode the i8 delivers a mid-range acceleration from 80 to 120 km/h (50 to 75 mph) in 2.6 seconds. The electronically controlled top speed is 250 km/h (160 mph).

Range and fuel economy[edit]

The production i8 has a 7.1 kWh lithium-ion battery pack with a usable capacity of 5.2 kWh and intelligent energy management that delivers an all-electric range of 37 km (23 mi) under the NEDC cycle. Under the EPA cycle, the range in EV mode is 15 mi (24 km), with a gasoline consumption of 0.1 gallons per 100 mi, and as a result, EPA's all-electric range is zero. The total range is 330 mi (530 km).

The production version has a fuel efficiency of 2.1 L/100 km (134.5 mpg-imp; 112.0 mpg-US) under the NEDC test with carbon emissions of 49 g/km.[5] Under EPA cycle, the i8 combined fuel economy in EV mode was rated 76 equivalent (MPG-equivalent) (3.1 L gasoline equivalent/100 km; 91 mpg-imp gasoline equivalent), with an energy consumption of 43 kW-hrs/100 mi and gasoline consumption of 0.1 gal-US/100 mi. The combined fuel economy when running only with gasoline is 28 mpg-US (8.4 L/100 km; 34 mpg-imp), 28 mpg-US (8.4 L/100 km; 34 mpg-imp) for city driving, and 29 mpg-US (8.1 L/100 km; 35 mpg-imp) in highway.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's 2014 edition of the "Light-Duty Automotive Technology, Carbon Dioxide Emissions, and Fuel Economy Trends" introduced utility factors for plug-in hybrids to represent the percentage of miles that will be driven using electricity by an average driver, in electric only or blended modes. The BMW i8 has a utility factor in EV mode of 37%, compared with 83% for the BMW i3 REx, 66% for the Chevrolet Volt, 65% for the Cadillac ELR, 45% for the Ford Energi models, 43% for the McLaren P1, 39% for the Porsche Panamera S E-Hybrid, and 29% for the Toyota Prius PHV.

[Text from Wikipedia]

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_i8

This Lego miniland-scale BMW i8 has been created for Flickr LUGNuts' 94th Build Challenge, - "Appease the Elves Summer Automobile Build-off (Part 2)", - a design challenge combining the resources of LUGNuts, TheLegoCarBlog (TLCB) and Head Turnerz.

Orange 6 was a pure-bred, high speed racing machine. It was capable both of atmospheric and space flight. The ship could dodge, dart and blast its way past its opponents.

The Lego Car Blog has written a brilliant story about this and my other recent racer, Green 21. Definitely worth a visit! thelegocarblog.com/2024/05/17/space-race-5/

There are some alternative images available on Instagram: www.instagram.com/p/C7E0xG1itLE/

This is a modification of my hot rod pickup. It still has everything that you might like (motorized/remotely controlled driving/steering, lights, turn signals, working steering wheel, working V8 and radiator fan, working door handles, gearbox…) and some new features (wheels, suspension, engine, roof, front lights, interior, fuel tank, movable license plate, chrome details…). Like the old one, it is 50 studs long and 28 studs wide but it is heavier - it weighs 1285g.

VIDEO: youtu.be/jR0rCEck7_0

Characteristics:

-Leaf spring suspension with height-adjustable rear

-License plate with simple mechanism to hide it (manual)

-Lights (front and rear) manually controlled with a lever connected to a speed dial of 8878 battery (which allows you to switch between low and high beam)

-Turn signals (front and rear) connected to a servo motor via coupled PF switches (2 switches)

-Working steering wheel

-Manual gearbox – 4 gears (5:1, 3:1, 5:3, 1:1)

-Suicide doors with working door handles

-It is powered by two L motors and 7.4 V (8878) rechargeable battery box.

-Servo motor for steering

-Working V8 fake engine with some details to make it resemble real V8 engine, connected directly to the driving motors so it works at the same speed no matter what gear you choose (in neutral also)

-Working radiator fan, connected directly to a V8 engine

-Rear doors can be opened.

-Roof window, fire extinguisher, fuel tank…

-Front tires from 8070 supercar, and rear from 42000 Grand Prix Racer.

I hope you like it, feel free to comment…

p.s. it has been blogged: thelegocarblog.com/2014/07/03/rod-mod/

Ford GT - Second generation (2016-)

Overview:

ManufacturerFord Motor Company

Production2016 (planned)

Model years2017 (planned)

AssemblyMarkham, Ontario, Canada

Body and chassis

ClassSports car

Body style2-door coupé

LayoutRMR

Powertrain

Engine3.5 L EcoBoost V6 twin-turbo

Transmission7-speed semi-automatic transmission

At the 2015 North American International Auto Show, a new Ford GT was introduced and is set to be produced and released in 2016. It will mark 50 years since the GT40 won the 1966 24 Hours of Le Mans and is expected to run in the 2016 24 Hours of Le Mans to mark the anniversary.

The car is to be powered by a newly designed 3.5 litre twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V6 engine making "more than 600 horsepower." A 0-60 time of around 3 seconds is expected as well as a top speed greater than 200 mph. According to Ford, "the GT will exhibit one of the best power-to-weight ratios of any production car," thanks to its lightweight carbon fiber construction. Underpinning the GT is a carbon fiber monocoque bolted to aluminum front and rear subframes covered in carbon fiber body panels. The car also has racing inspired pushrod suspension, active aerodynamics, and dihedral doors.

Ford plans to build only 250 examples of the GT over the course of several years, with each costing around $400,000.

2016 Ford GT LeMans Racer

It's official! This is the Ford GT that will race at Le Mans in 2016!

Ford will bring this racer to the Le Mans grid in 2016, to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the company's 1-2-3 victory at the famous race in 1966. The Blue Oval continued to win at Le Mans in 1967, '68, and '69.

Ford says the 2016 car will run the full FIA World Endurance Championship and TUDOR United SportsCar Championship schedule next year, beginning with the Rolex 24 at Daytona in January, and leading up to a four-car effort at Le Mans in 2016. The Ford teams will be operated by Chip Ganassi Racing with Felix Sabates.

"As we developed the Ford GT, from the outset, we wanted to ensure we had a car that has what it takes to return Ford to the world of GT racing," said Raj Nair, Ford's Vice President of Global Product Development and chief technical officer. "We believe the Ford GT's advances in aerodynamics, light-weighting and EcoBoost power will make for a compelling race car that can once again compete on a global stage."

The 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 that powers the racer has been undergoing racing development since 2014, when it debuted in the TUDOR United SportsCar Championship. The engine has also scored victories at the 12 Hours of Sebring and the Rolex 24 at Daytona.

"We've won races and championships, but we've never run Le Mans," said team owner Chip Ganassi in a Ford press statement. "When presented the opportunity to compete with the all-new Ford GT on the world's biggest sports car stage, and on the 50th anniversary of one of the most storied victories in racing history, how could any race team not want to be part of that?

Our man at Le Mans, Marshall Pruett, also caught up with Chip Ganassi and IMSA President Scott Atherton after the official reveal. Here's what they had to say about the new Ford GT racer:

[Text from Wikipedia and Road & Track]

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ford_GT

www.roadandtrack.com/motorsports/news/a25892/the-ford-gt-...

This Lego miniland-scale Ford GT LeMans 2016 has been created for Flickr LUGNuts' 94th Build Challenge, - "Appease the Elves Summer Automobile Build-off (Part 2)", - a design challenge combining the resources of LUGNuts, TheLegoCarBlog (TLCB) and Head Turnerz.

The Porsche 918 Spyder is a mid-engined plug-in hybrid sports car designed by Porsche. The Spyder is powered by a naturally-aspirated 4.6 litre V8 engine, developing 608 horsepower (453 kW), with two electric motors delivering an additional 279 horsepower (208 kW) for a combined output of 887 horsepower (661 kW). The 918 Spyder's 6.8 kWh lithium-ion battery pack delivers an all-electric range of 19 km (12 mi) under EPA's five-cycle tests. The car has a top speed of around 340 km/h (210 mph).

The 918 Spyder is a limited edition sports car, with 918 units manufactured and sold as a 2014 model year. Production began on September 18, 2013, with deliveries initially scheduled to begin in December 2013. The starting price was US$847,000. The 918 Spyder was the second plug-in hybrid car from Porsche, after the 2014 Panamera S E-Hybrid. The 918 Spyder was sold out in December 2014. The country with the most orders was the United States with 297 units. Production ended in June 2015.

The 918 Spyder was first shown as a concept at the 80th Geneva Motor Show in March 2010. The production version was unveiled at the September 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show. Porsche also unveiled the RSR racing variant of the 918 at the 2011 North American International Auto Show, which combines hybrid technology first used in the 997 GT3 R Hybrid, with styling from the 918 Spyder.

Specifications

The 918 Spyder is a mid-engined two-seater sports car designed by Michael Mauer.[11] It is powered by a 4.6 litre V8 engine. The engine is built on the same architecture as the one used in the RS Spyder Le Mans Prototype racing car without any engine belts.

The engine weighs 135 kg according to Porsche and it delivers 608 horsepower (453 kW) at 8,500 rpm and 528 N·m (389 lbf·ft) of maximum torque. This is supplemented by two electric motors delivering an additional 279 hp (208 kW). One 154 hp (115 kW) electric motor drives the rear wheels in parallel with the engine and also serves as the main generator. This motor and engine deliver power to the rear axle via a 7-speed gearbox coupled to Porsche's own PDK double-clutch system. The front 125 hp (93 kW) electric motor directly drives the front axle; an electric clutch decouples the motor when not in use. The total system delivers 887 hp (661 kW) and 1,280 N·m (940 lbf·ft) of torque. By October 2012 the engineering design was not finalized, but Porsche provided performance figures of 0–100 km/h (62 mph) in 2.5 seconds, 0-200 km/h (120 mph) in 7.2 seconds, 300 kilometres per hour (190 mph) in 19.9 seconds and a tested top speed of 218 miles per hour (351 km/h). In Car and Driver's independent test of the Porsche 918, C/D achieved 0-60 mph in 2.2 seconds (making it the fastest car C/D has ever tested), 0-100 mph in 4.9 seconds, 0-180 mph in 17.5 seconds, and the 1/4 mile in 9.8 seconds. In Motor Trend's independent test of the Porsche 918, they also claimed it was the fastest car to 60 mph that they had ever tested. It stopped from 60-0 mph in 94 feet, and broke Motor Trend's figure 8 record at 22.2 seconds.

The energy storage system is a 312-cell, liquid-cooled 6.8 kW·h lithium-ion battery positioned behind the passenger cell. In addition to a plug-in charge port at the passenger-side B-pillar, the batteries are also charged by regenerative braking and by excess output from the engine when the car is coasting. CO2 emissions are 79 g/km and fuel consumption is 3.0 L/100 km (94 imperial mpg/78 us mpg) under the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC). The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) under its five-cycle tests rated the 2015 model year Porsche 918 Spyder energy consumption in all-electric mode at 50 kWh per 100 miles, which translates into a combined city/highway fuel economy of 67 miles per gallon gasoline equivalent (MPG-e) (3.5 L/100 km; 80 mpg-imp gasoline equivalent). When powered only by the gasoline engine, EPA's official combined city/highway fuel economy is 22 mpg-US (11 L/100 km; 26 mpg-imp).

The 4.6 litre V-8 petrol engine can recharge an empty battery on about two litres of fuel. The supplied Porsche Universal Charger requires seven hours to charge the battery on a typical 110 volt household AC socket or two hours on a dedicated Charging Dock installed with a 240 volt industrial supply. An optional DC Speed Charging Station can restore the battery to full capacity in 25 minutes.

The 918 Spyder offers five different running modes: E-Drive allows the car to run under battery power alone, using the rear electric motor and front motor, giving a range of 18 miles (29 km) for the concept model. The official U.S. EPA all-electric range is 12 mi (19 km). The total range with a full tank of gasoline and a fully charged battery is 420 miles (680 km) according to EPA tests. Under the E-Drive mode the car can reach 93 mph (150 km/h). Three hybrid modes (Hybrid, Sport and Race) use both the engine and electric motors to provide the desired levels of economy and performance. In Race mode a push-to-pass button initiates the Hot Lap setting, which delivers additional electrical power. The chassis is a carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic monocoque. The 918 has electromechanical brakes.

On July 28, 2010, after 2000 declarations of interest, the Supervisory Board of Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG, Stuttgart, gave the green light for series development of the 918 Spyder.

Sales and production

The production version was unveiled at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show. The 2014 model year 918 Spyder was produced in a limited series and it was developed in Weissach and assembled in Zuffenhausen. Porsche manufacture 918 units as a 2014 model year and production started on November 18, 2013, with deliveries scheduled to begin in December 2013. Sales in the United States began in June 2014. Pricing for the 918 Spyder started at US$845,000 (~ €611,000 or £511,000). According to its battery size, the 918 Spyder was eligible to a federal tax credit of up to US$3,667.

As of November 2014, over 800 units had been ordered worldwide, with planned production sold out through late March or early April 2015. Production ended in June 2015 as scheduled. The entire production was sold out in December 2014. The country with the most orders is the United States with 297 units, followed by China and Germany with approximately 100 orders each.

According to JATO Dynamics, a total of 105 units have been registered worldwide during the first nine months of 2014. The United States is the leading market with 202 units delivered up to May 2015. As of October 2014, a total of 9 units were registered in Switzerland, 6 in the Netherlands, 5 units in Canada, and 4 in Sweden.

RSR

At the 2011 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Porsche unveiled the RSR racing variant of the 918 Spyder. Instead of using plug-in hybrid technology, power for the two electric motors is provided by a flywheel accumulator KERS system that sits beside the driver in the passenger compartment. The V8 is a further development of the direct injection engine from the RS Spyder race car developing 563 horsepower (420 kW). The electric motors each provide an additional 102 horsepower (76 kW), giving a peak power output of 767 horsepower (572 kW). The six speed gearbox is a development of the unit from the RS Spyder.

Nürburgring lap time record:

Porsche announced that on September 4, 2013, a 918 fitted with the optional 'Weissach Package' set a Nürburgring lap time of 6:57 on the 12.8 mi (20.6 km) road course, reducing the previous record by 14 seconds, and making it the first series production street-legal car to break the 7 minute barrier (When the 918 set the record, the fastest time of 6:48 was held by a Radical SR8 LM, however it cannot be converted to street use in certain countries. The current record holder is Pagani Zonda R with a lap time with 6:47, however it is a track only car).

The Porsche 918 Spyder also holds the production car lap record of the Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca with 1:29.89.

[Text from Wikipedia]

This LegoMiniland-scale Porsche 918 Spyder - Martini Racing has been created for Flickr LUGNuts' 94th Build Challenge, - "Appease the Elves Summer Automobile Build-off (Part 2)", - a design challenge combining the resources of LUGNuts, TheLegoCarBlog (TLCB) and Head Turnerz.

As usual it's time to look back and take stock of what has been done in the past twelve months.

The most important news of 2018 is probably that I'm one of just fifteen builders worldwide selected to have their work showcased in the Masterpiece Gallery at the LEGO House in The LEGO Group’s home in Billund, Denmark. It was an incredible experience, if you're interested about that take a look at the special feature on The LEGO Car Blog.

About my creations I think I've built less than in 2017 due to the fact I've spent a lot of time preparing the trip to Billund and resizing the builds for the LEGO House.

Anyway, I built some dioramas in vintage style and few classic vehicles. Plus a couple of retro space tanks: the B-59 in Blacktron livery and the Mobile Laboratory in Ice Planet style.

To celebrate the LEGO House experience I created a bunch of numbered custom Norton74 Minifigures. I was lucky enough to personally give Minifig No.1 to Mr. Kjeld Kirk Kristiansen (aka KKK, grandson of the company's founder).

Last but not least few days ago my Hot Dog Stand has been chosen as one of the MOCs on the shortlist for The Brothers Brick LEGO Creation of the Year 2018. I feel very honored and happy to be in that short list, just to be there is incredible for me.

Thanks to those who has supported, "faved", shared my builds and also made constructive critiques.

Thanks to all the great builders out there who are a big source of inspiration.

Also a big thank you to all the blogs and magazines that featured my works in 2018.

Dear friends, I wish you a full of bricks new year and a lot of fun!

All the best!

Andrea - Norton74

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Ford GT - Second generation (2016-)

Overview:

ManufacturerFord Motor Company

Production2016 (planned)

Model years2017 (planned)

AssemblyMarkham, Ontario, Canada

Body and chassis

ClassSports car

Body style2-door coupé

LayoutRMR

Powertrain

Engine3.5 L EcoBoost V6 twin-turbo

Transmission7-speed semi-automatic transmission

At the 2015 North American International Auto Show, a new Ford GT was introduced and is set to be produced and released in 2016. It will mark 50 years since the GT40 won the 1966 24 Hours of Le Mans and is expected to run in the 2016 24 Hours of Le Mans to mark the anniversary.

The car is to be powered by a newly designed 3.5 litre twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V6 engine making "more than 600 horsepower." A 0-60 time of around 3 seconds is expected as well as a top speed greater than 200 mph. According to Ford, "the GT will exhibit one of the best power-to-weight ratios of any production car," thanks to its lightweight carbon fiber construction. Underpinning the GT is a carbon fiber monocoque bolted to aluminum front and rear subframes covered in carbon fiber body panels. The car also has racing inspired pushrod suspension, active aerodynamics, and dihedral doors.

Ford plans to build only 250 examples of the GT over the course of several years, with each costing around $400,000.

2016 Ford GT LeMans Racer

It's official! This is the Ford GT that will race at Le Mans in 2016!

Ford will bring this racer to the Le Mans grid in 2016, to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the company's 1-2-3 victory at the famous race in 1966. The Blue Oval continued to win at Le Mans in 1967, '68, and '69.

Ford says the 2016 car will run the full FIA World Endurance Championship and TUDOR United SportsCar Championship schedule next year, beginning with the Rolex 24 at Daytona in January, and leading up to a four-car effort at Le Mans in 2016. The Ford teams will be operated by Chip Ganassi Racing with Felix Sabates.

"As we developed the Ford GT, from the outset, we wanted to ensure we had a car that has what it takes to return Ford to the world of GT racing," said Raj Nair, Ford's Vice President of Global Product Development and chief technical officer. "We believe the Ford GT's advances in aerodynamics, light-weighting and EcoBoost power will make for a compelling race car that can once again compete on a global stage."

The 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 that powers the racer has been undergoing racing development since 2014, when it debuted in the TUDOR United SportsCar Championship. The engine has also scored victories at the 12 Hours of Sebring and the Rolex 24 at Daytona.

"We've won races and championships, but we've never run Le Mans," said team owner Chip Ganassi in a Ford press statement. "When presented the opportunity to compete with the all-new Ford GT on the world's biggest sports car stage, and on the 50th anniversary of one of the most storied victories in racing history, how could any race team not want to be part of that?

Our man at Le Mans, Marshall Pruett, also caught up with Chip Ganassi and IMSA President Scott Atherton after the official reveal. Here's what they had to say about the new Ford GT racer:

[Text from Wikipedia and Road & Track]

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ford_GT

www.roadandtrack.com/motorsports/news/a25892/the-ford-gt-...

This Lego miniland-scale Ford GT LeMans 2016 has been created for Flickr LUGNuts' 94th Build Challenge, - "Appease the Elves Summer Automobile Build-off (Part 2)", - a design challenge combining the resources of LUGNuts, TheLegoCarBlog (TLCB) and Head Turnerz.

This is a modification of my hot rod pickup. It still has everything that you might like (motorized/remotely controlled driving/steering, lights, turn signals, working steering wheel, working V8 and radiator fan, working door handles, gearbox…) and some new features (wheels, suspension, engine, roof, front lights, interior, fuel tank, movable license plate, chrome details…). Like the old one, it is 50 studs long and 28 studs wide but it is heavier - it weighs 1285g.

VIDEO: youtu.be/jR0rCEck7_0

Characteristics:

-Leaf spring suspension with height-adjustable rear

-License plate with simple mechanism to hide it (manual)

-Lights (front and rear) manually controlled with a lever connected to a speed dial of 8878 battery (which allows you to switch between low and high beam)

-Turn signals (front and rear) connected to a servo motor via coupled PF switches (2 switches)

-Working steering wheel

-Manual gearbox – 4 gears (5:1, 3:1, 5:3, 1:1)

-Suicide doors with working door handles

-It is powered by two L motors and 7.4 V (8878) rechargeable battery box.

-Servo motor for steering

-Working V8 fake engine with some details to make it resemble real V8 engine, connected directly to the driving motors so it works at the same speed no matter what gear you choose (in neutral also)

-Working radiator fan, connected directly to a V8 engine

-Rear doors can be opened.

-Roof window, fire extinguisher, fuel tank…

-Front tires from 8070 supercar, and rear from 42000 Grand Prix Racer.

I hope you like it, feel free to comment…

p.s. it has been blogged: thelegocarblog.com/2014/07/03/rod-mod/

In the series of my favorites of WWII aircraft, here comes the American response to the RAF demand for a fast fighter.

About this creation

The North American P-51 Mustang was initially produced in response to a 1940 RAF requirement for a fast, heavily armed fighter able to operate effectively at altitudes in excess of 6100m (20.000ft). North American built the prototype in 117 days, and the aircraft, designated NA-73X, flew on 26 October 1940. The first of 320 production Mustang 1s for the RAF flew on 1 May 1941, powered by an 1100hp AllisonV engine. RAF test pilots soon found that with this powerplant the aircraft did not perform well at high altitude, but that its low-level performance was excellent. The RAF suggested that the Mustang 1, now designated P51, would perform much better as a high-altitude interceptor if it were re-engined with the Rolls-Royce Merlin, but the suggestion was initially ignored. Later Mustangs fitted with a licensed Packard-built Rolls-Royce Merlin 61 engine showed a dramatic improvement in performance.

This led to the successful P51D, in the familiar role as escort fighter in countless bombing raids of the Third Reich. I will not bore you with more history, and hope you will enjoy my model.

Praise and criticism are always welcome.

Source: The encyclopidia of aircraft.

This creation was blogged by

The Lego Car Blog!

VIDEO: www.youtube.com/watch?v=iJb54vVIw1s

MOC: www.mocpages.com/moc.php/380997

-It is 50 studs long, 28 studs wide, 17 studs high and weighs 1145g.

-2 L motors are coupled and power is transmitted, trough gearbox, to the rear axle.

-manual gearbox -- 4 gears (5:1, 3:1, 5:3, 1:1).

-lights (front and rear) manually controlled with a lever (behind steering wheel) connected to a speed dial of 8878 battery.

-turn signals (front and rear) connected to a servo motor via coupled PF switches (2 switches) behind driver seat.

-working steering wheel.

-servo motor for steering.

-full independent suspension.

-working V8 fake engine with some details to make it resemble real V8 engine, connected directly to the driving motors so it works at the same speed no matter what gear you choose (in neutral also).

-working radiator fan, connected directly to a V8 engine.

-suicide doors with working door handles.

-working steering wheel.

-rear doors can be opened.

-fake fuel tank.

-Wheel & Tire: 41896/41897 front, 44772/44771. p.s. It has been bloged: thelegocarblog.com/2014/02/25/technic-tuesday/

Car three by Roy Lichtenstein is one of the most popular of all the Art Cars; the BMW 320 Group 5. The artist had this to say on the fruit of his labours: ‘I invested as much thought and effort as possible’. Undeniably! The result of these efforts is a harmonious combination of the aerodynamics in the bodywork with the aesthetics of his art; after all it is one of the fastest moving pieces of art the world has ever seen. Lichtenstein’s famous comic strip style is reflected in the paintwork. ‘The painted lines symbolise the road the car has to follow and the artwork also portrays the surroundings through which the car is being driven’.

BMW Art Car 03 | Roy Lichtenstein | United States | 1977 BMW 320i Group 5 Race Version

Born in New York in 1923, Roy Lichtenstein is generally regarded as the father of American pop art. In the years prior to 1938 he painted portraits of jazz musicians. After this, he attended courses held by the “Art Student League,” then went on to study art in Ohio.

His subsequent work straddled cubism and expressionism. In the late 1950s, Lichtenstein began dealing with trivial culture such as comics and advertisements. His first pop art pictures appeared in 1961, their monumentalization of the banal heralding a completely new style of art.

Following his caricatures of the “American Way of Life,” experiments with well-known works of art and various sculptures and films, the Museum of Modern Art in New York held a comprehensive retrospective of Lichtenstein’s work in 1987. He died in New York in 1997.

Technical Data: 1977 BMW 320i Group 5 Race Version

4-cylinder inline engine

Turbocharged

4 valves per cylinder

Twin overhead camshafts

Displacement: 2,000 cc

Power output: 300 bhp

Top speed: 257 km/h

Roy Lichtenstein and his BMW Art Car

Roy Lichtenstein can still remember vividly how he produced the design for his racing car – a BMW 320i – back in 1977:

“I wanted to use painted lines as a road, pointing the way for the car. The design also shows the scenery as it passes by. Even the sky and sunlight are to be seen … you could list all the things a car experiences – the only difference is that this car mirrors all these things even before it takes to the road.”

Taking a closer look, the car’s design casts a picture of passing scenery in which both the car and its movement are one single entity. And although Lichtenstein’s comic art was already a thing of the past by then, his BMW Art Car is clearly influence by it: the long-drawn colored strips act as “speedlines” – a feature used in comics to suggest speed. Even the oversized dots used by Lichtenstein, the “Benday Dots,” are reminiscent of his famous comic book pictures.

“I thought hard and put all I had into it.”

— Roy Lichtenstein

The harmony achieved between predetermined aerodynamic features and free composition is pure Lichtenstein. It is an expression of his artistic credo: art must be an element of everyday life – its themes and inspiration must come from the lives of ordinary people.

After its completion, Roy Lichtenstein’s BMW Art Car celebrated not one, but two premieres: as a work of art at the Centre Pompidou in Paris, and as a racing car in the Le Mans 24-Hour Race. It was driven by the Frenchmen Herve Poulain and Marcel Mignot. The car finished 9th overall and first in its class.

[Test from BMW Art Car Collection.com]

www.bmwartcarcollection.com/2011/05/03-roy-lichtenstein-b...

This Lego miniland scale BMW Art Car #3 - 320 Group 5 Racer (Roy Lichtenstain 1977) has been created for Flickr LUGNuts' 96th Build Challenge - The 8th Birthday, titled - 'Happy Crazy Eight Birthday, LUGNuts' - where all previous build challenges are available to build to. This model is built to the LUGNuts 94th build challenge, - &quotAppease the Elves Summer Automobile Build-off (Part 2)" - a design challenge combining the resources of LUGNuts, TheLegoCarBlog (TLCB) and Head Turnerz.

This was one of the cars I had prepared for the TCLB / Head Turnerz Challenge, had built 90% of the way there in bricks, had a few parts to go that weren't in my collection, and stopped. Unfortunately, the built model is still in this state.

Motorized Lego Volkswagen beetle - Red Baron theme

www.youtube.com/watch?v=dYiU84Vksic, www.mocpages.com/moc.php/384440

It is 37 studs long, 19 studs wide and 12 studs high and weighs 589 g.

Two L motors are coupled and geared 5:1. Power is transmitted, without differential to the rear wheels only.

Servo motor for steering

7.4 V rechargeable battery box (easy accessible for charging)

Working 4 cylinder boxer engine.

Working steering wheel (directly connected to second output of servo motor).

Working serpentine belt part which drives fake fan.

Wheel & Tire: 41896/41897 front and rear.

Doors can be opened.

Front and rear seats can be raised.

Fake fuel tank at the front, with filler cap that can be opened.

Functional glove box.

Custom stickers (inspired by Hot Rod Vince's "Black Baron" www.flickr.com/photos/62798028@N08/12811759213/) and chromed details (wheels, mirrors, exhaust, fuel filler cap).

p.s. it has been bloged:

thelegocarblog.com/2014/03/28/red-baron

Motorized Lego Volkswagen beetle - Red Baron theme

www.youtube.com/watch?v=dYiU84Vksic, www.mocpages.com/moc.php/384440

It is 37 studs long, 19 studs wide and 12 studs high and weighs 589 g.

Two L motors are coupled and geared 5:1. Power is transmitted, without differential to the rear wheels only.

Servo motor for steering

7.4 V rechargeable battery box (easy accessible for charging)

Working 4 cylinder boxer engine.

Working steering wheel (directly connected to second output of servo motor).

Working serpentine belt part which drives fake fan.

Wheel & Tire: 41896/41897 front and rear.

Doors can be opened.

Front and rear seats can be raised.

Fake fuel tank at the front, with filler cap that can be opened.

Functional glove box.

Custom stickers (inspired by Hot Rod Vince's "Black Baron" www.flickr.com/photos/62798028@N08/12811759213/) and chromed details (wheels, mirrors, exhaust, fuel filler cap).

p.s. it has been bloged:

thelegocarblog.com/2014/03/28/red-baron

The Porsche 918 Spyder is a mid-engined plug-in hybrid sports car designed by Porsche. The Spyder is powered by a naturally-aspirated 4.6 litre V8 engine, developing 608 horsepower (453 kW), with two electric motors delivering an additional 279 horsepower (208 kW) for a combined output of 887 horsepower (661 kW). The 918 Spyder's 6.8 kWh lithium-ion battery pack delivers an all-electric range of 19 km (12 mi) under EPA's five-cycle tests. The car has a top speed of around 340 km/h (210 mph).

The 918 Spyder is a limited edition sports car, with 918 units manufactured and sold as a 2014 model year. Production began on September 18, 2013, with deliveries initially scheduled to begin in December 2013. The starting price was US$847,000. The 918 Spyder was the second plug-in hybrid car from Porsche, after the 2014 Panamera S E-Hybrid. The 918 Spyder was sold out in December 2014. The country with the most orders was the United States with 297 units. Production ended in June 2015.

The 918 Spyder was first shown as a concept at the 80th Geneva Motor Show in March 2010. The production version was unveiled at the September 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show. Porsche also unveiled the RSR racing variant of the 918 at the 2011 North American International Auto Show, which combines hybrid technology first used in the 997 GT3 R Hybrid, with styling from the 918 Spyder.

Specifications

The 918 Spyder is a mid-engined two-seater sports car designed by Michael Mauer.[11] It is powered by a 4.6 litre V8 engine. The engine is built on the same architecture as the one used in the RS Spyder Le Mans Prototype racing car without any engine belts.

The engine weighs 135 kg according to Porsche and it delivers 608 horsepower (453 kW) at 8,500 rpm and 528 N·m (389 lbf·ft) of maximum torque. This is supplemented by two electric motors delivering an additional 279 hp (208 kW). One 154 hp (115 kW) electric motor drives the rear wheels in parallel with the engine and also serves as the main generator. This motor and engine deliver power to the rear axle via a 7-speed gearbox coupled to Porsche's own PDK double-clutch system. The front 125 hp (93 kW) electric motor directly drives the front axle; an electric clutch decouples the motor when not in use. The total system delivers 887 hp (661 kW) and 1,280 N·m (940 lbf·ft) of torque. By October 2012 the engineering design was not finalized, but Porsche provided performance figures of 0–100 km/h (62 mph) in 2.5 seconds, 0-200 km/h (120 mph) in 7.2 seconds, 300 kilometres per hour (190 mph) in 19.9 seconds and a tested top speed of 218 miles per hour (351 km/h). In Car and Driver's independent test of the Porsche 918, C/D achieved 0-60 mph in 2.2 seconds (making it the fastest car C/D has ever tested), 0-100 mph in 4.9 seconds, 0-180 mph in 17.5 seconds, and the 1/4 mile in 9.8 seconds. In Motor Trend's independent test of the Porsche 918, they also claimed it was the fastest car to 60 mph that they had ever tested. It stopped from 60-0 mph in 94 feet, and broke Motor Trend's figure 8 record at 22.2 seconds.

The energy storage system is a 312-cell, liquid-cooled 6.8 kW·h lithium-ion battery positioned behind the passenger cell. In addition to a plug-in charge port at the passenger-side B-pillar, the batteries are also charged by regenerative braking and by excess output from the engine when the car is coasting. CO2 emissions are 79 g/km and fuel consumption is 3.0 L/100 km (94 imperial mpg/78 us mpg) under the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC). The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) under its five-cycle tests rated the 2015 model year Porsche 918 Spyder energy consumption in all-electric mode at 50 kWh per 100 miles, which translates into a combined city/highway fuel economy of 67 miles per gallon gasoline equivalent (MPG-e) (3.5 L/100 km; 80 mpg-imp gasoline equivalent). When powered only by the gasoline engine, EPA's official combined city/highway fuel economy is 22 mpg-US (11 L/100 km; 26 mpg-imp).

The 4.6 litre V-8 petrol engine can recharge an empty battery on about two litres of fuel. The supplied Porsche Universal Charger requires seven hours to charge the battery on a typical 110 volt household AC socket or two hours on a dedicated Charging Dock installed with a 240 volt industrial supply. An optional DC Speed Charging Station can restore the battery to full capacity in 25 minutes.

The 918 Spyder offers five different running modes: E-Drive allows the car to run under battery power alone, using the rear electric motor and front motor, giving a range of 18 miles (29 km) for the concept model. The official U.S. EPA all-electric range is 12 mi (19 km). The total range with a full tank of gasoline and a fully charged battery is 420 miles (680 km) according to EPA tests. Under the E-Drive mode the car can reach 93 mph (150 km/h). Three hybrid modes (Hybrid, Sport and Race) use both the engine and electric motors to provide the desired levels of economy and performance. In Race mode a push-to-pass button initiates the Hot Lap setting, which delivers additional electrical power. The chassis is a carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic monocoque. The 918 has electromechanical brakes.

On July 28, 2010, after 2000 declarations of interest, the Supervisory Board of Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG, Stuttgart, gave the green light for series development of the 918 Spyder.

Sales and production

The production version was unveiled at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show. The 2014 model year 918 Spyder was produced in a limited series and it was developed in Weissach and assembled in Zuffenhausen. Porsche manufacture 918 units as a 2014 model year and production started on November 18, 2013, with deliveries scheduled to begin in December 2013. Sales in the United States began in June 2014. Pricing for the 918 Spyder started at US$845,000 (~ €611,000 or £511,000). According to its battery size, the 918 Spyder was eligible to a federal tax credit of up to US$3,667.

As of November 2014, over 800 units had been ordered worldwide, with planned production sold out through late March or early April 2015. Production ended in June 2015 as scheduled. The entire production was sold out in December 2014. The country with the most orders is the United States with 297 units, followed by China and Germany with approximately 100 orders each.

According to JATO Dynamics, a total of 105 units have been registered worldwide during the first nine months of 2014. The United States is the leading market with 202 units delivered up to May 2015. As of October 2014, a total of 9 units were registered in Switzerland, 6 in the Netherlands, 5 units in Canada, and 4 in Sweden.

RSR

At the 2011 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Porsche unveiled the RSR racing variant of the 918 Spyder. Instead of using plug-in hybrid technology, power for the two electric motors is provided by a flywheel accumulator KERS system that sits beside the driver in the passenger compartment. The V8 is a further development of the direct injection engine from the RS Spyder race car developing 563 horsepower (420 kW). The electric motors each provide an additional 102 horsepower (76 kW), giving a peak power output of 767 horsepower (572 kW). The six speed gearbox is a development of the unit from the RS Spyder.

Nürburgring lap time record:

Porsche announced that on September 4, 2013, a 918 fitted with the optional 'Weissach Package' set a Nürburgring lap time of 6:57 on the 12.8 mi (20.6 km) road course, reducing the previous record by 14 seconds, and making it the first series production street-legal car to break the 7 minute barrier (When the 918 set the record, the fastest time of 6:48 was held by a Radical SR8 LM, however it cannot be converted to street use in certain countries. The current record holder is Pagani Zonda R with a lap time with 6:47, however it is a track only car).

The Porsche 918 Spyder also holds the production car lap record of the Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca with 1:29.89.

[Text from Wikipedia]

This LegoMiniland-scale Porsche 918 Spyder - Martini Racing has been created for Flickr LUGNuts' 94th Build Challenge, - "Appease the Elves Summer Automobile Build-off (Part 2)", - a design challenge combining the resources of LUGNuts, TheLegoCarBlog (TLCB) and Head Turnerz.