Toyota Corolla Altis - stills, reviews, specifications
Whenever you talk about sport or politics or film stars or even cars, one tends to zero in on the two or three who keep on competing against each other making the competition even more fun and intriguing than the final outcome itself. In all these dogfights the one which has been played to a great extent continuously now for the past two decades has been the all-Japanese rivalry between the Honda Civic and the Toyota Corolla. These two have battled it out on their home turf, in the US (probably the largest and most important battlefield for this duo to perform on), in Asia and also in India. It is a fight that not one single car ever wins comprehensively, the duo exchanging places at the forefront while continuously sparring at each other and in the process delighting the millions of users who flock to buy one or both of them!
This is exactly the impression I got when Toyota Kirloskar gave us the exclusive use of a pre-production 10th generation Corolla Altis which was launched yesterday in New Delhi. It comes just about two years after Honda’s quantum Civic-leap and it promises to keep the executive segment slugfest simmering in all earnestness. Being Toyota the all new 10th generation Corolla is all evolution where the Civic was a barking mad revolution. However it depends on one’s point of view as whether evolution is the preferred taste of the hour or revolution is what is needed to light those latent desires. We’ll leave the Civic out of the picture now and concentrate totally on evolution and why it is good and great for the Corolla.
One cannot fault Toyota for their planning and their intense creed for detail and perfection. This is what makes the Corolla one of the most refined automobiles on the planet and at the price point it is pegged at, it makes for terrific value. Many a time I have myself mentioned the Corolla being a very boring car because it does things so perfectly well. Clinically efficient with nary a whimper or protest and that’s why it is the car of choice for the sensible and the staid. The 10th generation Corolla Altis is the modern face of the sensible and staid and you have to really look closely as to how it has advanced in generation.
General Motors Unveils Electric Powered Car
After completing 100 years in the auto industry, General Motors plans to focus on next-generation vehicles and technologies through its year-long global initiative, GMnext. General Motors unveiled on Tuesday (September 16) the production version of the car that it hopes will turbocharge its momentum and recast its image.
CEO Rick Wagoner showed off the highly anticipated Chevrolet Volt, a plug-in electric car. It’s the focal point of GM’s 100th anniversary celebration. The Volt reflects the company’s drive to move away from gas guzzling trucks and SUVs.
“It shows we’re forward looking, that we’re committed to playing a big role and that making sure that personal transportation is just as important and viable to the average consumer out there in fifty years as it is today,” said Rick Wagoner, Chairman and CEO of General Motors.
The car looked more curvy than last year’s sporty angular concept version that evoked a muscle car. Vice chairman Bob Lutz said GM altered the design so the Volt can reach its ambitious target range of 40 miles on a lithium ion battery.
But critics wonder if GM can deliver by its target date of November 2010. A US energy official said Monday that practical lithium ion batteries are still years away. What’s more, a lithium battery costs roughly 10-thousand dollars.
Denise Gray heads battery engineering at GM.
“We’re working diligently in every aspect of the battery pack to bring that cost down as much as possible. But it is going to take a number of learning loops by OEMs (original equipment manufacturer), by the uppliers to optimize the overall system to get the volumes up, to get the quality up, to bring the price down.”
Consumers could get a jolt when they hear the estimated price for a Volt: under $40,000. GM hopes federal and state governments will offer tax credits to put the Volt within the reach of car buyers.
Some characteristics of the Volt:
–Lithium-ion batteries, which are still under development, are expected to propel the car up to 40 miles on a single charge from a home outlet.
–As it approaches 40 miles, a small internal combustion engine kicks in to recharge the batteries, extending the car’s range to hundreds of miles. The engine can run on gasoline or E85 ethanol.
–Design is among the most aerodynamic in GM history, although the company won’t reveal its drag coefficient.
–Interior has a liquid-crystal instrument display that the driver can configure to his or her needs, as well as touch-screen climate, information and entertainment controls.
–It takes about eight hours to recharge through a 120-volt outlet, costing about 80 cents a day assuming a price of 10 cents per kilowatt-hour.
–Top speed is 100 mph.
–Due in showrooms in November 2010.
Fast cars wallpapers and photo gallery
sports cars pics n wallpapers
YAMAHA FZ 16 - 'Designed to Rule' stills, reviews, specifications
FZ16 has vry stunning and solid looks which will definately attract the indian youth
Yamaha Motor India has decided to rechristen Yamaha FZ15 ahead of its launch in India and has renamed it as Yamaha FZ16. Indianon2wheels brings you the features and specifications of the latest entrant in the competitive 150cc motorcycle segment, Yamaha FZ16.
Yamaha FZ16 features a 153cc air-cooled, carbureted, 4-stroke, SOHC, single-cylinder, 2-valve engine, which produces 14 Ps at 7500 rpm and 14 N.m. of torque at 6000 rpm. While the stopping power comes from the 267mm disc brake at front with twin pot calipers and a standard drum brake does the duty at the rear.
Yamaha it seems is looking to sell the FZ16 mainly on the merits of its look, a fact accentuated by not only the rather strange yet eye catching headlight, which flows well with the rest of the body work, but also the 100/80-17 and 140/60-R17 tyre combination, which would catch the imagination of lot of people.
However despite this, Yamaha has managed to keep FZ16’s curb weight (137kgs) similar to the 150cc segment leader, Bajaj Pulsar 150 DTS-i.
Even though we suspect that performance will take a hit due to the rather fat tyres which only help in the looks department, it remains to be seen, how well the FZ16 performs as a complete package.
It is being offered in 3 colours - Lava Red, Midnight Black and Flaming Orange and is priced at Rs. 65,000 ex showroom (all India).I think this is the one that will rule the indian roads.
Yamaha FZ16 technical specifications:
Yamaha FZ16 Engine:
Engine type: Air-cooled, 4-stroke, SOHC, 2-valve
Displacement: 153.0cm3
Bore & Stroke: 58.0 × 57.9mm
Compression ratio: 9.5:1
Maximum output: 14PS / 7500 rpm
Maximum torque: 14 N.m / 6000 rpm
Starting method: Electric starter
Lubrication type: Wet sump
Carburetor type: BS26
Clutch type: Constant mesh wet multiplate
Ignition type: CDI
Primary/secondary reduction ratio: 3.409 / 2.857
Transmission type: Return type 5-speed
Yamaha FZ16 Chassis:
Frame type: Diamond
Suspension (front/rear): Telescopic / Monocross
Brake type(front/rear): Hydraulic single disc / drum
Tire size (front/rear): 100/80-17 / 140/60-R17
Yamaha FZ16 Dimensions:
Overall Length × Width × Height: 1,975mm × 770mm × 1,045mm
Seat height: 790mm
Wheelbase: 1,335mm
Minimum ground clearance: 160mm
Dry weight/Curb weight: 126 kg / 137 kg
Fuel tank volume: 12 liters
Engine oil volume: 1.2 liters
DUCATI 1098 R “THE ULTIMATE SUPER BIKE -BUILT TO WIN”
Ducati has achieved the monopoly in the motorcycle industry and in motorcycle racing.The Ducati 1098 is a super bike. It is offered as the 1098, 1098S, and 1098R. Among these the most expected model is 1098R
They claim that “The 1098 R is the ultimate Superbike. The most advanced, most powerful twin-cylinder motorcycle ever built with the highest torque-to-weight ratio in the sport bike category.. It is the product of a team of designers and engineers focussed on one objective only - to win” Its competition specification and superior components together with advanced electronics and race-proven chassis technology deliver a level of performance that empowers you with confidence and capability.
FEATURES
The Ducati 1098R uses a advanced chassis.The 1098 R chassis and suspension components are the results of detailed study and a performance first priority approach to development.The 1098 R engine represents the finest twin-cylinder technology in the world. It produces 180hp (132.4kW) at 9,750rpm and 99.1 lb-ft (13.7kgm) of brute torque at 7,750rpm in standard mode and an astonishing 186hp when using the supplied race kit (intended strictly for track use only).A true competition-level traction control system comes integrated into the 1098 R electronics as standard equipment.
A race kit is also integrated to Ducati 1098R which boosts power output from 180 to approximately 186hp. The kit consists of a 102dB carbon fibre slip-on muffler kit by Termignoni and a dedicated ECU. The ECU not only has reconfigured mapping to suit the racing mufflers, but also initiates the system dialogue that controls the DTC (Ducati Traction Control) system. The 1098 R is the first ever production bike to be fitted with a true competition-level traction control.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION
ENGINE
TYPE…………………….. L-Twin cylinder, 4 valve per cylinder Desmodromic, liquid cooled
DISPLACEMENT ………. 1198.4cc
BORE X STROKE……….. 106×67.9mm
COMPRESSION RATIO….8:1
POWER 180hp …………..132.4kw @ 9750rpm
TORQUE …………………..99.1lb-ft 134Nm @ 7750rpm
FUEL INJECTION……….. Marelli electronic fuel injection, elliptical throttle bodies.
EXHAUST…………………..Lightweight 2-1-2 system with catalytic converter and 2 lambda probes. Twin stainless steel and titanium mufflers
CHASSIS
FRAME ……………………Tubular steel Trellis frame in ALS 450
WHEELBASE …………….1430mm / 56.3 in
FRONT SUSPENSION.. Öhlins 43mm fully adjustable upside-down fork with TiN
FRONT WHEEL TRAVEL …….120mm / 4.7in
FRONT BRAKE…………………. 2 x 330mm semi-floating discs, radially mounted Brembo Monobloc calipers 4-piston, 2-pad.
FRONT WHEEL …………………5-spoke in forged light alloy 3.50 x 17
FRONT TYRE…………………. 120/70 ZR17
REAR SUSPENSION ……………Progressive linkage with fully adjustable Öhlins TTXR monoshock with top-out spring. Aluminium single-sided swingarm
REAR WHEEL TRAVEL ……….127mm / 5in
REAR BRAKE …………………..245mm disc, 2-piston caliper
REAR WHEEL…………………. 5-spoke forged light alloy 6.00 x 17
REAR TYRE…………………… 190/55 ZR17
FUEL TANK CAPACITY …….15.5L
WEIGHT ……………………… Dry weight
TRANSMISSION
GEARBOX
6 speed
CLUTCH
Dry multiplate with hydraulic control slipper clutch
INSTRUMENTS
Digital MotoGP derived unit displaying: Speedometer, 2 partial speedometers (Trip A and Trip B), trip fuel,rev counter, speed, clock, scheduled maintenance warning, engine cooling water temperature, air temperature, battery status (in the menu), Lap time, warning light for low oil pressure, fuel level, fuel reserve, lights, turn signals, neutral, over rev, vehicle diagnosis, engine diagnosis and immobilizer
WARRANTY
2 years unlimited mileage
Yamaha 2009 YZF-R1 Superbike
The new-generation YZF-R1 is more closely linked to our MotoGP winning M1 than ever before. For 2009 this legendary motorcycle is equipped with an all-new 998cc inline four-cylinder engine with a crossplane crankshaft that runs with an uneven firing interval of 270º - 180º - 90º - 180º. This innovative new design ensures superb throttle linearity, giving a feeling that the rider’s throttle hand is directly connected to the rear tyre.
ALL NEW FOR 2009
In the supersport liter class, there’s always lots of talk about power. You expect that. What you wouldn’t have expected – until now – is a radically superior way to deliver that power. Introducing the 2009 YZF-R1, the first ever production motorcycle with a crossplane crankshaft. Crossplane technology, first pioneered in MotoGP racing with the M1, puts each connecting rod 90? from the next, with an uneven firing interval of 270?- 180?- 90?- 180?. This all but eliminates undesirable inertial crankshaft torque, which allows the engine’s compression torque to build smoothly and provide a very linear power delivery out of the corners. It’s a feeling that’s simply unmatched, like having two engines in one: the low-rpm torquey feel of a twin with the raw, high-rpm power of an inline 4. In fact, the new YZF-R1 is not a continuation of existing supersport development; it is breakthrough technology that represents a paradigm shift in both technology and performance.
This next-generation R1 keeps all the technological superiorities developed for its predecessor: YCC-T (Yamaha Chip Controlled Throttle) is MotoGP inspired fly-by-wire technology used to deliver instant throttle response. YCC-I is Yamaha Chip Controlled Intake which is a variable intake system that broadens the spread of power. The fuel injection system provides optimum air/fuel mixtures for maximum power and smooth throttle response.
The R1 features Yamaha D-MODE (or drive mode) with rider-selectable throttle control maps to program YCC-T performance characteristics for riding conditions. The standard map is designed for optimum overall performance. The “A” mode lets the rider enjoy sportier engine response in the low- to mid-speed range, and the “B” mode offers response that is somewhat less sharp response for riding situations that require especially sensitive throttle operation. Switching maps is as easy as pushing a button on the handlebar switch.
In keeping with this machine’s exceptional cornering ability and crisp handling, the all new aluminum frame has been designed to offer exceptional rigidity balance. The rear frame is now lightweight CF die-cast magnesium, contributing the optimum mass centralization. Suspension includes new SOQI front forks which use one of the tricks developed for our winning MotoGP bikes: independent damping. The left fork handles compression damping and the right side handles the rebound damping. And the rear shock adopts new bottom linkage for optimum suspension characteristics. Want even more? For the first time, R1 comes standard with an electronic steering damper.
All new bodywork does more than add break-away-from-the- crowd styling. Completely new, the new model has a more serious, less busy look. The side fairing is smoother for a sleeker appearance. And, instead of the usual four bulb headlight design, the ’09 model now has only two projector-type bulbs mounted closer to the nose of the bike. This positions ram air ducts closer in for a more compact, smooth look. In addition, the rounded lenses are new and unique to the supersport industry.
Engine:
Crossplane crankshaft technology proven in victory after victory on MotoGP machines provides a high-tech uneven firing interval. Unlike typical in-line-four engine design, where the two outer and two inner pistons move together in pairs with 180?intervals, the crossplane crankshaft has each connecting rod 90? from the next with a unique firing order of 270? –180? – 90? – 180?. This overcomes the inherent fluctuations in inertial torque during each engine revolution, and the accompanying peaky torque characteristics. Instead, compression torque continues to build, giving the rider more linear throttle response with awesome power and traction out of the corners.
To maximize rider comfort as well as power output, this newly designed engine adopts a coupling-type balancer that rotates in the opposite direction as the crankshaft.
This engine features new forged aluminum pistons to take maximum advantage of the power characteristics. As proven on previous models, titanium intake valves are lightweight titanium.
A forced-air intake system is adopted to increase intake efficiency by using the natural airflow during riding to pressurize the air in the air cleaner box. This contributes to outstanding power delivery characteristics in the high-speed range, while the design also helps to minimize intake noise.
Slipper-type back torque-limiting clutch greatly facilitates braking/downshifting from high speed.
The exhaust system is completely new. It’s meticulously designed to enhance engine output while, thanks to its threeway catalyst technology, also reducing exhaust emissions. The silencer is a single expansion type, and, the sound coming through from the unique crossplane-crankshaft-equipped engine is unlike any other in-line four cylinder production supersport.
This fuel-injected engine takes full advantage of YCC-T (Yamaha Chip Controlled Throttle), the MotoGP-inspired fly-by-wire technology used to deliver instant throttle response. There’s also YCC-I, Yamaha Chip Controlled Intake, the variable intake system that broadens the spread of power. Fuel injectors have 12 holes for precise fuel delivery that translates to the most power from every fuel charge.
Have it your way, thanks to Yamaha D-MODE variable throttle control. There are three modes that control how YCC-T responds to throttle input from the rider. The selectable “A” mode puts more emphasis on acceleration in low to midrange rpm. “B” mode, on the other hand, provides less sharp response to input for riding situations that require especially sensitive throttle operation. Selecting the map you want is as easy as pressing button on the handlebars.
Chassis/Suspension:
The frame is completely revamped, with a combination of uncompromising rigidity where needed along with carefully achieved flex for the precise rigidity balance this bike needs to give the rider the full benefit of its handling and engine characteristics. No one-technique-fits-all-needs design, it is a sophisticated combination of CF die-cast, stamping, and gravity casting… the exact technology needed for each portion of this advanced frame.
New SOQI front forks take a page from the championship-winning design of our MotoGP weapon, the M1. Since both forks always move together, compression damping duties can be confined to the left fork, while rebound damping is precisely handled by the right fork.
The new SOQI rear shock both high and low speed compression damping plus an easy-to-use screw adjustment for preload. This unit also adopts a pillow-ball-type joint for exceptional shock absorption, road hold feeling, and damper response. To achieve maximum performance, a new bottom linkage is used to work with the rest of the chassis refinements for brilliant, crisp handling characteristics.
Factory racers get machines tailored to their preferences. Welcome to the club. R1 has adjustable footrests, with a 15mm height and 3mm front-to-rear adjustment.
The press-formed fuel tank has a shape developed using 3-D simulation analysis technology. The elongated shape of the tank allows it to fit neatly within the frame in a way that promotes concentration of mass.
Additional Features:
The newly designed instrumentation includes everything a rider wants to know, including gear position.
Engine
Type 998cc, liquid-cooled 4-stroke DOHC 16 valves (titanium valves)
Bore x Stroke 78.0mm X 52.2mm
Compression Ratio 12.7:1
Carburetion Fuel Injection with YCC-T and YCC-I
Ignition TCI: Transistor Controlled Ignition
Transmission 6-speed w/multi-plate slipper clutch
Final Drive #530 O-ring chain
Chassis
Suspension/Front 43mm inverted fork; fully adjustable, 4.7-in travel
Suspension/Rear Single shock w/piggyback reservoir; 2-way adjustable, 4.7-in travel
Brakes/Front Dual 310mm disc; radial-mount forged 6-piston calipers
Brakes/Rear 220mm disc; single-piston caliper
Tires/Front 120/70ZR17M/C 58W
Tires/Rear 190/55ZR17M/C 75W
Dimensions
Length 81.1 in
Width 28.1 in
Height 44.5 in
Seat Height 32.8 in
Wheelbase 55.7 in
Rake (Caster Angle) 24.0?
Trail 4.0 in
Fuel Capacity 4.8 gal
Fuel Economy** N/A
Wet Weight 454 lb
Other
Main Jet Not Applicable
Main Air Jet Not Applicable
Jet Needle Not Applicable
Needle Jet Not Applicable
Pilot Air Jet 1 Not Applicable
Pilot Outlet Not Applicable
Pilot Jet Not Applicable
Primary Reduction Ratio 65/43 (1.512)
Secondary Reduction Ratio 47/17 (2.765)
Gear Ratio - 1st Gear 38/15 (2.533)
Gear Ratio - 2nd Gear 33/16 (2.063)
Gear Ratio - 3rd Gear 37/21 (1.762)
Gear Ratio - 4th Gear 35/23 (1.522)
Gear Ratio - 5th Gear 30/22 (1.364)
Gear Ratio - 6th Gear 33/26 (1.269)
Warranty
1 Year (Limited Factory Warranty)
MSRP*
$12,490 (Raven/Candy Red) Available from January 2009
$12,490 (Pearl White/Rapid Red) Available from January 2009
$12,490 (Cadmium Yellow) Available from January 2009
$12,390 (Team Yamaha Blue/White) Available from January 2009
Honda City - stills, reviews, specifications
The all new Honda city is coming with a dashing style. Everyone will be get impressed of its great look…..Its features specifications and some of the pictures of the car and its interior are here….
The all new Honda City comes with a dynamic style which is truly path-breaking. The Arrow Shot Form, responsible for the refined aero dynamics of the car amplifies its presence wherever it goes.
The front face of the car running from the grill to the headlight creates a bold and distinctive look.
The all new Honda City is engineered at its best. The new 1.5 L i-VTEC engine delivers 118PS, while being extremely fuel efficient. The 5-speed automatic transmission with paddle shift keeps the control in your hands for a smooth and exciting drive. The all new Honda City is E10 ready.
Stress-free acceleration and swift response to throttle inputs assure comfortable starts and passing ability on the highway.
The joy of driving that only Honda can provide and the New City‘s superior riding comfort certainly will satisfy the requirements for next-generation quality.
With its advanced and sporty styling, you will enjoy every moment.
The all new Honda City is engineered at its best. The new 1.5 L i-VTEC engine delivers 118PS, while being extremely fuel efficient. The 5-speed automatic transmission with paddle shift keeps the control in your hands for a smooth and exciting drive. The all new Honda City is E10 ready.
Stress-free acceleration and swift response to throttle inputs assure comfortable starts and passing ability on the highway.
The joy of driving that only Honda can provide and the New City‘s superior riding comfort certainly will satisfy the requirements for next-generation quality.
In pursuit of Class-leading output and excellent fuel efficiency, the New CITY is powered by the highly developed i-VTEC engine.
The New CITY’s i-VTEC engine is developed for all-round performance. It delivers high output, fuel efficiency and environmental-friendly performance.
Intake valve timing and valve lift settings switch to meet both low- and high-speed driving requirements. Optimized valve overlap in the low-, mid- and high-speed ranges enhances intake and exhaust efficiency for excellent performance with plenty of torque throughout all speed ranges.
AT with Paddle Shift
The unique Paddle Shift gear option allows you to switch gears without using the clutch pedal. The 5AT (Automatic Transmission) allow you to change gear ratios automatically-freeing you from having to shift gears manually. The right paddle is for shifting up while the left paddle is for shifting down, which is the same as for an F1 machine. In D-range mode, the driver can shift up and down by using the paddles, while automatically returning to normal AT driving mode when a sensor determines the car is cruising. On the other hand, in S-range, the mode does not revert automatically to AT driving mode, which allows the driver to enjoy a manual transmission-like driving feel.
Manual Transmission
The All New City boasts of a smoother wire type manual transmission gear shift with hydraulic clutch. As compared to a rod type, wire type operating system makes for a much smoother gear shift. The gear shift has good moderate stiffness, and thanks to a shortening of the sleeve stroke of the synchronizer, is also much lighter. What’s more, the clutch utilizes hydraulic pressure to reduce the force needed during operation and to provide a fatigue-free driving experience.
Comfort
Air Conditioning Sysytem
The new CITY has been designed to meet the needs of daily life, providing a variety of convenient, multi-purpose storage areas.
Spacious Interior
The interiors of the car look very attractive with the advanced looking meter design and soothing colour contrasts of the new City promises its consumers with a stylish, spacious and comfortable lounge.The City boasts marvelous interiors luxurious and relaxing. Whether you are in the driver’s seat or just along for the ride, your experience in the City can only be enjoyable. Indulge yourself in the sumptuous interiors, where every detail is crafted with precision engineering for immaculate perfection.
The City is equipped with a powerful and very effective air conditioning system with heater to instantly transform the cabin into your comfort zone. The powerful blower with special and advanced compressor, along with under-seat ducts for the rear seat passengers, provides an unforgettable experience of total comfort.
The new CITY has been designed to meet the needs of daily life, providing a variety of convenient, multi-purpose storage areas.
Multi Purpose Storage
he new CITY has been designed to meet the needs of daily life, providing a variety of convenient, multi-purpose storage areas.
SPECIFICATIONS | E MT / S MT | S AT | |
Engine | Engine | 1.5L (SOHC) 4 cylinder, 16 valve i-VTEC | |
Displacement cc | 1,497 | ||
Fuel System | Electronic Fuel Injection | ||
Transmission | Type | Synchronized, 5-Speed Forward & 1 Reverse | 5AT with Paddle Shift & 1 Reserve |
Performance | Max. Power (PS/rpm) | 118 / 6600 | |
Max. Torque, Nm @ rpm | 146 @ 4800 | ||
Steering | Steering System | Rack & Pinion | |
Power Assist | Power Steering (EPS) | ||
Minimum Turing Radius(m) | 5.3 | ||
Brakes | Front Brake | Disc | |
Rear Brak | Drum | ||
Suspension | Front Suspension | Mc pherson Strut with Stabilizer, Coil Spring | |
Rear Suspension | Torsion Beam Axle with Stabilizer, Coil Spring | ||
Tyre & Wheels | Wheel Type | Steel | |
Wheel Size | 15 X 5. 5 J | ||
Tyre | 175/65 R15 (Tubeless) | ||
Dimensions | Overall Length (mm) | 4420 | |
Overall Width (mm) | 1695 | ||
Overall Height (mm) | 1480 | ||
Wheelbase (mm) | 2550 | ||
Ground Clearance (mm) | 160 | ||
Kerb Weight (kg) | 1100 | 1155 | |
Fuel Tank Capacity (lit) | 42 |