If you’re one of the many who’ve been waiting for the details on Scion’s FR-S coupe, the sporty, front engine, rear wheel drive offering from Toyota’s Gen Y targeting brand, you need wait no longer. Equipped with a six-speed manual the base price will be $24,200 while a six-speed paddle shifting automatic with Dynamic Rev Management brings the base price to $25,300. We suspect the rev management technology will help you sound like a heel-toe pro as you paddle downshift into the corners. Mondo Motoring welcomes the Scion FR-S. (click more for the full Scion press release and more photos)

TORRANCE, Calif., April 25, 2012 – Scion today announced full details for its 2013 FR-S compact rear-wheel drive sports car.  The high-performance coupe is the fifth model to join the Scion family and will go on sale in June.

“The FR-S will definitely be Scion’s halo car,” said Scion Vice President Jack Hollis.  “While the brand has been iconic with the xB, adrenalized by the tC, and groundbreaking with the new iQ, the addition of the FR-S expands the brand into a new dimension of driving performance.”

Authentic Sports Car at an Affordable Price

The FR-S provides the automotive landscape with an authentic sports car at an affordable price, with a MSRP of $24,200 when equipped with a six-speed manual transmission, and $25,300 when equipped with a six-speed automatic transmission that features paddle shifters and Dynamic Rev Management technology.

“Scion’s goal was to create an affordable sports car that true driving enthusiasts could enjoy,” Hollis said.  “We accomplished that with a starting price under $25,000, which is a total home run for buyers!  Add in Scion’s complimentary Scion Service Boost, our dealers’ no-haggle no-hassle Pure Price, and Scion’s network of about 1,000 dealers, and the FR-S is a grand slam.”

“Pure Balance”

The FR-S, which stands for Front-engine, Rear-wheel drive, Sport; is Scion’s definition of an authentic rear-wheel-drive sports car with exceptionally balanced performance and handling, compelling style, flexible utility and surprising fuel efficiency.

The FR-S is a true “scion,” born into a lengthy history of Toyota performance cars and motorsports. During planning and development, it was most inspired by the AE86 generation of the Corolla, better known as the Hachi-Roku, meaning “8-6” in Japanese. The AE86 was a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive coupe that was lightweight and well balanced, making it a solid choice for driving enthusiasts.

Inspired by the AE86, the FR-S is designed around the core goal of achieving “Pure Balance,” which begins with the strategic use of the world’s only flat boxer engine in a front-engine, rear-wheel drive configuration.  The engine’s compact size and flat shape allow it to be mounted mid-ship and extremely low, giving the car a dynamically favorable front-to-rear weight ratio of 53:47 and a low center of gravity comparable to some exotic supercars.

The FR-S’s 2.0-liter, naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine is the result of a joint development between Toyota and Subaru.  The partnership begins by combining Subaru’s newly developed, horizontally opposed engine and Toyota’s cutting-edge D-4S injection system,which incorporates both direct and port injection for each cylinder, one injecting fuel directly into the combustion chamber, the other a port injector located above the intake valves.  Adopted from the Lexus IS F, D-4S injection is a new technology for the Scion family.

The D-4S system uses the direct injectors at all engine speeds. Both the direct and port injectors are used at certain engine speeds and under certain engine loads to help fill out mid-range torque. The D-4S is also a key technology that reduces vehicle emissions. FR-S heads utilize dual variable valve timing, making adjustments to the intake- and exhaust-cam timing to help optimize power, torque, and fuel mileage.  The D-4S system, partnered with a high 12.5:1 compression ratio, results in an impressive 200 horsepower and 151 pound-feet of torque.

Despite the engine’s powerful 100-horsepower per liter, the FR-S has EPA-estimated ratings of 34 mpg on the highway when paired with the automatic transmission, and EPA-estimated 30 mpg with the manual transmission.

The flat-four mates with either a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission. The manual offers quick, precise shifts with a short-throw; while the automatic features aggressive up shifts and sporty rev-matched down shifts that are initiated by steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters. The automatic features Dynamic Rev Management technology that quickly raises the engine speed to help match engine revs to gear ratios on downshifts, limiting driveline shock and adding to the visceral experience of driving the car.

The automatic transmission also features Sport Mode that quickens shift timing as well as throttle response. In Sport Mode, the transmission will also hold gears longer at higher revs before upshifting, making it easier to exploit the torque and horsepower in the upper reaches of the rev range.

Both transmissions have the same 4.10:1 final drive ratio. To help bring the rear-wheel-drive design to life, FR-S features a Torsen® limited-slip differential, apportioning power to the rear wheels with precision and immediacy.

The idea of “Pure Balance” is further realized by the FR-S’s lightweight design and compact size, a combination that allows it to be quick and nimble into and out of corners, with dynamic maneuverability and confident handling.  The coupe weighs in at an impressive 2,758 pounds when equipped with a manual transmission and 2,806 when equipped with an automatic.  The FR-S is kept to a minimum weight by utilizing an aluminum hood, a solid roof, and by featuring a trunk design instead of a hatchback.

The FR-S’s low weight is complimented by a dynamically tuned suspension setup consisting of MacPherson struts up front and a double wishbone system in the rear. Excellent steering feedback and input is provided by Electronic Power Steering with a sporty 13:1 steering ratio. Lightweight 17×7-inch alloy wheels and ventilated disc brakes are standard on all four corners.

For the sake of experienced performance driving enthusiasts, the Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Traction Control (TRAC) can be set in combination of five configurations.

Powerful Exterior Design

The fierce exterior of the FR-S is a solid reflection of its inner power. The profile, inspired by the Toyota 2000GT, reveals a hood and roof-line that is remarkably sleek and low, giving it an aerodynamic shape that channels air cleanly over to the top. The low stance continues to exaggerate the coupe’s menacing face, which is made up of sharp lines, a wide lower intake and angular headlights that house the projector-beam halogen lamps. The aggressive front fenders protrude upward and boast the iconic ‘86’ piston emblem, which highlights the car’s AE86 heritage as well as its unique new boxer engine. The rear fascia sits low and wide, with aerodynamic lower treatments that surround the sporty dual exhaust system.  LEDs illuminate the edgy taillights, while center-mounted backup lights finish the muscular design.

The FR-S will be available in seven colors including Raven, Asphalt, Hot Lava, Argento, Ultramarine, Firestorm and Whiteout.

Performance-focused Interior

The FR-S’s interior includes a 2+2 seating configuration that is designed with both form and function in mind.  The comfortable yet assertive front seats feature deep bolsters and are mounted extremely low, while the rear seat folds down flat, creating flexible space.  It will also come standard with unique FR-S badged floor mats.

The large center-mounted tachometer is the focus of the three-gauge cluster and features a programmable shift-indicator, which has a small but intense indicator that lights up when redline is reached.  The driver can set the warning to go off in 100-rpm increments, starting at 2,000 rpm.  A chime can be programmed to sound when redline is approached. Speed is monitored by both digital and analog gauges. 

The FR-S features a performance-oriented, 365-millimeter diameter, leather-trimmed steering wheel that has both tilt and telescopic adjustment.

The soft-skin dash top has a “flat horizon” design, influenced by the simple purity of the Toyota 2000GT dash.  At the center of the dash top is a raised rib, which functions as a “centerline” that reflects at the base of the windshield, helping a skilled performance driver intuitively find the center of the car.

The FR-S will come standard with an eight-speaker AM/FM/CD/USB 300-watt maximum output Pioneer™ audio system.  Standard features also include HD Radio™ technology and Bluetooth^® connectivity that allows both hands-free phone connection as well as streaming audio capability.

The FR-S will be the first Scion to offer a connected multimedia audio system called BeSpoke™, powered by Pioneer’s Zypr™.  When connected to an iPhone^®, Scion’s BeSpoke system will offer a higher level of connectivity features and personalized content like Facebook, Twitter, Internet radio, among others.

Sports Car Performance with Excellent Safety Features

FR-S comes standard with six airbags, including dual-stage advanced driver- and front-passenger airbags, front-seat-mounted airbags and side-curtain airbags.

Like all Scions, the FR-S features the Star Safety System that includes Traction Control (TRAC), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Brake Assist (BA), an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), and Smart Stop Technology (SST).

Warranty and Complimentary Scion Service Boost

Like all Scion models, the FR-S is covered by a 3-year/36,000-mile limited warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. The FR-S will come standard with Scion Service Boost, a complimentary plan covering normal factory-scheduled maintenance for two years or 25,000 miles, whichever comes first, and two years of 24-hour roadside assistance.

The delivery, processing and handling (DPH) fee for all Scion models is $730 and is not included in the MSRP.  DPH fee for vehicles distributed by Southeast Toyota (SET) and Gulf States Toyota (GST) may vary.

BMW has released details and photos of their new MINI Cooper and Cooper S convertibles. Photos and the full press release from BMW follow, but some items of particular interest

• Top can be lowered or deployed at up to 20 MPH
• Openometer records top down time
• Standard sliding sunroof feature is standard allowing a partial open air experience

Orders are being taken now with deliver beginning on March 28th 2009. Just in time for early spring. Take note however, prices have jumped noticeably. Cooper convertibles now start at $24,550, while the S starts at $27,450 including destination charge.

Continue for Press Release from BMW followed by photo gallery.

The new MINI Convertible.
Description in Brief.
* The next-generation model of the celebrated four-seat convertible which achieves some 164,000 in worldwide sales. The new MINI Convertible  embodies the thrill of open-air motoring in unmistakably MINI style. Raising the high standard set by its predecessor, the new MINI Convertible features improvements in the areas of design, quality, handling, performance, efficiency, and functionality.
* Evolutionary development of the car’s design: The two-door body style and soft-top roof deliver unique proportions, sleek lines, and truly individual style. Design cues clearly link the new convertible to the MINI family of vehicles.
* Refined overall appearance highlighting the stretched silhouette and ensuring enhanced presence from both front and rear. Expertly modeled body surfaces, low-roofline for roadster-like flair, concealed rollover protection bar. Signature MINI headlamps and taillights. Four-pivot joints for the luggage compartment top are mounted inside the car to ensure a harmonious and sleek appearance.
* Electrohydraulic-powered roof with the sliding roof function comes standard, and allows the driver to open and close the soft top while the car is in motion up to 20 mph. The standard Openometer feature records the time spent travelling with the roof down. A wider range of paint colors, roof colors, wheels, and upholstery and interior trim choices provide endless opportunities for personalization. Also, model-specific optional extras and special equipment are available.
* Newly developed, electromechanically operated rollover bar situated behind the rear seats, is activated by the car’s central safety electronics in the event of a rollover. The innovative safety bar allows for optimum visibility to the rear and sides of the car. An optional loading storage between the luggage and passenger compartments expands the cargo space.
* The flexible storage system delivers outstanding functionality. The easy-load system includes: an expanded luggage compartment opening, rear seat backrests that can be folded down and locked into position, and a pivoting, two-position shelf for packages.
* New generation of four-cylinder gasoline engines with Twin-Scroll turbochargers or fully variable valve management. Engine capacity 1,598 cc, max output 118 hp (MINI Cooper Convertible) and 172 hp (MINI Cooper S Convertible). Both engine variants are equipped with a number of technical features that maximize fuel economy and minimize emissions.
* MINI’s signature front-wheel drive, go-kart-like handling with refined suspension technology tuned specifically to the MINI Convertible. Electromechanical Power Steering (EPS). Brake system with anti-lock brakes (ABS), Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD), Cornering Brake Control (CBC) and Brake Assistant, as well as Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) with Start-Off Assistant are all standard features. Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) with Electronically Differential Lock Control (EDLC) feature on the drive wheels enhances traction under acceleration, and is available as an option or as part of the Sport Package.
* Crash-optimized body structure with newly conceived floorpan and reinforced A-pillars and side-sills. Body stiffness further improved over the former model, with a reduction in vehicle weight by 22 lb. Three-point inertia-reel seat belts on all seats, with belt latch tensioners and belt force limiters at the front, frontal airbags, head/thorax airbags at the side integrated in the seat backrest, rollover sensor masterminding the rollover safety system, airbags and belt latch tensioners with for optimized functionality. Run-flat tires and Tire Pressure Monitor.
* MINI Cooper S Convertible:
Four-cylinder gasoline engine with Twin-Scroll turbocharger and
direct fuel injection.
Capacity: 1,598 cc, max output: 172 hp at 5,500 rpm.
Max torque: 177 lb-ft from 1,600–5,000 rpm
(192 lb-ft with Overboost).
Acceleration 0–60mph: 7.0 sec Manual, 7.2 Automatic, Top speed: 138 mph Manual, 135 mph Automatic.
* MINI Cooper Convertible:
Four-cylinder gasoline engine with VALVETRONIC technology.
Capacity: 1,598 cc, max output: 118 hp at 6,000 rpm.
Max torque: 114 lb-ft at 4,250 rpm.
Acceleration (0–60 mph): 8.9 sec Manual, 10.2 Automatic, Top speed: 124 mph Manual, 119 mph Automatic.
Consistently Open:
The new MINI Convertible.
The driving pleasure and individual style that are MINI’s signatures have been tapped to create the next-generation MINI Convertible. With its evolutionary design and increased functionality, specially tuned suspension, powerful, efficient engines and enhanced safety technology, the latest version of the four-seat convertible raises the bar.
New color choices and equipment features add up to endless options for personalization. The premium materials and finishes enhance the MINI Convertible – the only open-air car in its class – even further.
The new MINI Convertible will make its worldwide debut in January at the 2009 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. Orders for the MINI Convertible are being taken now; the price for the MINI Cooper Convertible is $24,550 and for the MINI Cooper S Convertible $27,450, including the $650 destination and handling charge. Delivery of the first MINI Convertibles will begin on March 28, 2009.
The new MINI Convertible’s durable soft-top with integrated sliding roof function reliably protects driver and passengers from the elements when it is up. Allowing for spontaneous open-air motoring, the soft top lowers automatically in 15 seconds flat, even when the car is in motion up to 20 mph. The unique Openometer next to the tachometer challenges the driver to log as many top-down miles as possible by recording the hours spent open-air motoring.
The new MINI Convertible offers outstanding versatility with its Easy-Load Function, folding rear-seat backrests, and generously-sized loading between the luggage and passenger compartments, which increases the car’s cargo space to 23.10 cu ft.
This level of versatility, unparalleled in the convertible segment is enabled by the innovative design and construction of the rollover protection bar. The new MINI Convertible comes with a single-piece rollover protection bar behind the rear seats that spans the entire interior width of the car, without obstructing the driver’s visibility, and moves into position automatically in the event of a potential rollover.
The new MINI Convertible will be available in two engine variants. The MINI Cooper Convertible will come equipped with a 1.6-liter, four-cylinder engine featuring fully variable valve management for maximum output of 118 hp at 6,000 rpm. The performance-oriented MINI Cooper S Convertible will be powered by a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine with a Twin-Scroll turbocharger and direct gasoline injection delivering 172 hp at an engine speed of 5,500 rpm.
From the start, the MINI Cooper S Convertible and the MINI Cooper Convertible will be equipped with the six-speed manual gearbox featured as standard with optional six-speed automatic transmission. At the same time, the new MINI Convertible owes its nimble handling characteristics to suspension technology that has been significantly upgraded and improved over the former model. Its sophisticated wheel suspension, precise electromechanical power steering, powerful brake system and Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) – all standard features – allow the MINI convertible to set a new standard for agility and safety.

(read more plus additional photos and BMW’s press release after the jump)

Sporting a 204 hp electric motor, the extra horses on the MINI E are effectively offset by the 5,088 lithium ion cells distributed across 48 separate modules and located where the rear seat would be in a regular MINI. Gross weight on the MINI E tops out at a hefty 3,230 lbs. compared to 2,634 pounds for the Cooper S. To put this in perspective- a big old American muscle car, like the Corvette Z06, is 20 pounds lighter than the E.

But this not so mini MINI is about something different. While range on a fully charged E is limited to about 150 miles this example is clean, green, and cheap to operate. Despite the added weight, the MINI E costs about 2 cents/mile to fuel(charge) based on a rate of 11 cents/kilowatt hour. The same statistics calculates to 6.2 cents/mile for a Cooper S assuming an average mpg of 30, and at today’s fuel prices dipping below $1.90. So even as fuel prices return to a semblance of normalcy the appeal of electric power remains obvious. Reasonably priced fuel is hardly a given these days while electricity isn’t immune, it certainly seems a bit slower to deviate.

Now if you’re wondering whether all the extra weight impacts the performance, the reported numbers suggest not. 8.5 seconds to 60 is on par with the standard MINI Cooper if not the the S and easily beats the Mini Cooper D. BMW group says the suspension has been adjusted to compensate for the E’s weight distribution.

Not a full production vehicle but rather a pilot project, 500 copies of the MINI E are to be produced. The vehicle will be leased, not sold, to potential corporate and private customers in the New York, California and New Jersey markets. At the end of the program all cars are to be returned to BMW Group.

More photos and BMW Group’s full press release follow.

Full BMW Group Press Release from Los Angeles Auto Show:

The BMW Group will be the world’s first manufacturer of premium automobiles to deploy a fleet of some 500 all-electric vehicles for private use in daily traffic. The MINI E will be powered by a 150 kW (204 hp) electric motor fed by a high-performance rechargeable lithium-ion battery, transferring its power to the front wheels via a single-stage helical gearbox nearly without a sound and entirely free of emissions. Specially engineered for automobile use, the battery technology will have a range of more than 250 kilometers, or 156 miles. The MINI E will initially be made available to select private and corporate customers as part of a pilot project in the US states of California, New York and New Jersey. The company is looking into expanding the MINI E pilot to include Europe. The MINI E will celebrate its world premiere at the Los Angeles Auto Show on November 19 and 20.
The MINI E’s electric drive train produces a peak torque of 220 Newton meters, delivering seamless acceleration to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 8.5 seconds. Top speed is electronically limited to 152 km/h (95 mph). Featuring a suspension system tuned to match its weight distribution, the MINI E sports the brand’s hallmark agility and outstanding handling.
By introducing the MINI E, the BMW Group is underscoring the resolve with which it works towards reducing energy consumption and emissions in road traffic. The BMW Group is drawing on its unique technological expertise in the field of drive systems to develop a vehicle concept enabling zero emissions without renouncing the joy of driving. Putting some 500 cars on the road under real daily traffic conditions will make it possible to gain widely applicable hands-on experience. Evaluating these findings will generate valuable know-how, which will be factored into the engineering of mass-produced vehicles. The BMW Group aims to start series production of all-electric vehicles over the medium term as part of its Number ONE strategy. The development of innovative concepts for mobility in big-city conurbations within the scope of "project i" has a similar thrust, as its objective also includes making use of an all-electric power train.
The energy storage unit: cutting-edge lithium-ion technology engineered specifically for use in the MINI.
Based on the current MINI, the car will initially be available as a two-seater. The space taken up by back-seat passengers in the series model has been reserved for the lithium-ion battery. When in use in the zero-emissions MINI, the battery unit combines high output with ample storage capacity and a small footprint with power ratios that are unrivalled in this field of application so far. The lithium-ion storage unit will have a maximum capacity of 35 kilowatt hours (kWh) and transmit energy to the electric motor as direct current at a nominal 380 volts. The rechargeable battery is made up of 5,088 cells grouped into 48 modules. These modules are packaged into three battery elements that are compactly arranged inside the MINI E.
The energy storage unit’s basic components are based on the technological principle that has proven itself in practice in power supplies for mobile phones and portable computers. The MINI E’s lithium-ion battery can be plugged into all standard power outlets. Its charge time is strongly dependent on the voltage and amperage of the electricity flowing through the grid. In the USA, users can recharge a battery that has been completely drained within a very short period of time using a wallbox that will ship with every MINI E. The wallbox will be installed in the customer’s garage, enable higher amperage, and thus provide for extremely short charging times. Wallboxes fully recharge batteries after a mere two-and-a-half hours.
Driven by electricity: reliably, affordably and free of emissions.
A full recharge draws a maximum of 28 kilowatt hours of electricity from the grid. Based on the car’s range, a kilowatt hour translates into 5.4 miles. Besides the benefit of zero-emissions driving, the MINI E thus offers significant economic advantages over a vehicle powered by a conventional internal combustion engine as well.
The heavy-duty battery delivers its power to an electric motor, which transforms it into thrilling agility. Mounted transversely under the MINI E’s bonnet, the drive train unleashes its full thrust from a dead standstill. This provides for the car’s fascinating launch capability. The MINI E’s intense driving experience is augmented by its dynamic deceleration potential, which is also directly coupled to the accelerator pedal. As soon as the driver releases the gas pedal, the electric motor acts as a generator. This results in braking force, and the power recovered from the kinetic energy is fed back to the battery. This interaction ensures extremely comfortable drives – especially at medium speed with constant, but marginal, variation. In city traffic, some 75 percent of all deceleration can be done without the brakes. Making substantial use of this energy recuperation feature extends the car’s range by up to 20 percent.
Signature MINI agility in a new guise.
Weighing in at 1,465 kilograms (3,230 lbs), the MINI E has an even weight distribution. Minor modifications made to the suspension ensure safe handling at all times. The Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) system has been adapted to this model’s specific wheel loads.
The MINI E’s brake system comes with a newly developed electric underpressure pump. Its Electrical Power Assisted Steering (EPS) is the same as the one used in mass-produced MINIs. Both brake and steering assistance react to driving conditions and are thus extremely efficient. Even the air conditioning’s electrical compressor only operates if desired or necessary.
Design: unmistakably MINI, undoubtedly new.
At first glance, the MINI E is obviously an iteration of the brand. But its design, which is the blueprint for the zero-emissions two-seater, has been complemented by a number of visual cues that point to its revolutionary drive concept. All of the units produced for the pilot project will have the same paintwork and bear a serial number next to their side turn signal lights.
The MINI E’s coachwork sports an exclusive combination of metallic Dark Silver on all panels but the roof, which is clad in Pure Silver. What distinguishes the zero-emissions MINI is a specially designed logo in Interchange Yellow, depicting a stylized power plug in the shape of an "E" set against the silver backdrop. It has been applied to the roof, in smaller dimensions to the front and back, to the charger port lid, the dashboard trim, and – combined with the MINI logo – to the door jamb, in slightly modified form. The color of the roof edges, mirror housings, interior style cues and seat seams will match the logo’s yellow tone as well.
Moreover, the central gauge and the battery level indicator behind the wheel of the MINI E, which replaces the MINI’s rev counter, feature yellow lettering against a dark grey background. The battery level is displayed in percentage figures. The central gauge includes an LED display indicating power consumption in red and power recuperation in green.
MINI E customers will be part of a pioneering mission.
A 500-unit, limited-production MINI E series will be manufactured through the end of 2008. The project will thus attain an order of magnitude that clearly exceeds the size of currently comparable test series. Putting the MINI E on the road on a daily basis will be a pioneering feat to which both the drivers and engineers of the first zero-emissions MINI will contribute as a team.
MINI E customers will join forces with BMW Group experts to assist in the project’s scientific evaluation. MINI E engineers accord high importance to staying in touch with the drivers on a regular basis, as this will help them analyze driver behavior besides vehicle characteristics in order to gain the most accurate and realistic picture of the demands placed on a vehicle with a purely electrical drive in the select usage areas.
Special charging station and full service for every MINI E.
The cars will change hands based on a one-year lease with an extension option. Monthly lease installments will cover any required technical service including all necessary maintenance and the replacement of wearing parts. At the end of the lease, all of the automobiles belonging to the project will be returned to the BMW Group’s engineering fleet where they will be subjected to comparative tests.
The MINI E’s lithium-ion battery can be charged using a wallbox provided to MINI customers. Only lockable garages or similar buildings will qualify as homebases and power stations for the MINI E.
Maintenance by qualified specialists.
The electric drive’s high-voltage technology requires that maintenance work be done by qualified personnel using special tools that are not included in MINI service partners’ standard toolboxes. In light of this, a service base will be set up on both coasts, staffed by service engineers that are specially trained to perform maintenance and repair work on the MINI E’s electrical components. In the event of drive malfunction, these experts will provide professional support at the customer’s local MINI dealer or the service base’s specially equipped workshop. Technical inspections will take place after 3,000 miles (just under 5,000 kilometers) and at least after six months.
Production in Oxford and Munich.
The MINI E has already gone through the major phases of product development for mass-produced vehicles and passed numerous crash tests on the way. Aspects investigated besides passenger protection were the impact of collision forces on the lithium-ion battery and finding a non-hazardous location for it in the car. The MINI E’s energy storage unit emerged completely unscathed from all of the crash tests mandated by US standards, which are especially high.
Production of the approximately 500 cars will take place at the company’s Oxford and Munich sites and is scheduled for completion before the end of 2008. MINI’s UK plant will be responsible for manufacturing the entire vehicle with the exception of the drive components and the lithium-ion battery, with the brand’s series models rolling off its assembly lines concurrently. The units will then be transferred to a specially equipped manufacturing complex situated on BMW plant premises where the electric motor, battery units, performance electronics and transmission will be integrated.

continued with more pictures after the jump

Mazda more than any other car maker goes out of its way to make their utility vehicles look un-truck-like, and the Kazamai is no exception. The most extreme details on this Nagare series of concepts hardly seem likely to make it to production, but the design language may be hinting at what can be expected in upcoming production models from the auto maker.

So far, I have to say I like them as concepts, but Nagare isn’t something I’d be rushing out to buy. Still, the latest shots of a supposed 2011 RX-7 floating about have a bit of Nagare to them and they’re quite nice. I’ll have more on that in an upcoming post. For now, here’s a family photo of the original Nagare concepts followed by the newly released Kazamai pics.

This one seems to be sneaking in under the radar, but there seems to be very little buzz about Mazda’s upcoming Kabura. Mazda appears to be doing something about that by letting Jay Leno take a spin. It’s no secret this guy Loves cars with a capital L and it shows in his reflections on Mazda and their rotary engine and sports car heritage. You can read Jay’s article here and more of my thoughts after the jump.

I have to confess to having had a rather narrow opinion on Jay Leno as a car guy. I was under the mistaken impression that his tastes were mired in the realm of classic American Iron. But in recent months I’ve learned a bit more about Leno and his collection and was pleasantly surprised to see the diversity in his stable. Not only is it ripe with those gorgeous rolling artworks from the American heyday of the 50′s and 60′s, but plenty of attention is given to the sporting, the esoteric and the downright bizarre.

It wasn’t too many months ago that I learned of Jay’s purchase of a Mazda Cosmo. A significant car, the first 2 rotor example of the rotary engine in a production vehicle, the Cosmo was a vision for the future. Its revolutionary styling only hinted at the revolution happening under the hood. This car is remarkable in that there hasn’t been a more meaning design in the internal combustion engine since. Every other internal combustion engine has been a variation, evolution or improvement of the regular old piston engine. That’s not to say that current piston engines aren’t remarkable, they are.

So good ol’ Jay has an incredibly cool car collection with some of the weirdest and coolest rides known to man. Fast forward to the future and the Kabura. Mazda rumors aren’t necessarily running rampant, but to be sure they are running. There is talk of an MX-5 coupe, scarcely a single official word from Mazda, but there is certainly pressure. Pontiac has recently unveiled their Solstice Coupe at the New York International Auto Show. This car has what must be one of the finest looking automotive rear ends this side of a Jaguar E-Type. I have yet to drive one, but with its hardtop targa style roof this car should deliver a much more refined driving experience than the cabrio counterpart.

Mazda in the meantime has Kabura on the way. In concept form it’s a 3+1 coupe this translates to “designed around the driver” with 2 normal sized passenger seats and a jump seat aft of the cockpit for use in a pinch. It won’t look like an MX-5 despite sharing most mechanicals.

So where does that leave the rumors of an MX-5 coupe? I’m not really sure. Mazda has done a very limited release of an MX-5 coupe in the past, and sadly they weren’t offered on our shores. It’s hard not to think of the limited appeal a coupe variant might have especially with the PRHT version now available.

Still another side sees the point. It’s been recently stated that Mazda has a significantly greater presence in SCCA racing than any other maker out there. They are a veritable giant killer representing half of the field you’ll see on SCCA tracks. You have to wonder, with such a high representation on the racetrack, what do racers know that the rest of us don’t? Were Mazda to make an MX-5 coupe, their stronghold in club racing would be fortified for years to come.

If you were a boy growing up in the 60s or 70s, there’s a good chance you were as fascinated with the cartoon Speed Racer as much as I was. Well the Wachowski brothers of The Matrix fame have directed their attention to a modern live action version of that very cartoon. Based on the trailer these guys loved that cartoon every bit as much as I did as a kid. This embedded video is good, but do yourself a favor and go check out the high def trailers over at the official site.

To be unveiled in Geneva in it’s production form at the 2008 motor show in March, the name for Ford’s small car will remain Fiesta. Good news for America, this model will mark the return of the Fiesta to American shores when it debuts sometime by 2010.

Nearly Identical to last year’s Verve concept, the Fiesta is a looker. Not only that but it reflects a new era in small car convenience features. Though not mentioned by name, it appears Ford SYNC will be offered for bluetooth connectivity and voice activated music playback. Ford’s Easyfuel capless fueling system as well as tilt and telescoping steering column and the ambient lighting system that is being seen in a number of Ford cars these days.

Five powerplants will be available ranging from a 68 HP diesel to a 115 HP Duratec gasoline motor. More photos below

BMW to launch diesels in U.S. – AutoWeek Magazine

I suppose this new Mustang is largely a styling exercise, but I like it, I like it a lot in fact. I’d write it off to being old, my distaste for customizing and aftermarket doodads, but I’ve always had a thing for the vehicles that didn’t have to scream “I’m Mother Effin FAST!!!” in your face. Hence I’ve almost always preferred a car with a clean and understated look. The soon to be available Bullitt Edition Mustang from Ford appeals to me on that nature. In a world full of horrendously winged and decaled  and fart can mufflered WRXs, Civics and Scions it really is nice to lean back and enjoy a car that looks great without looking like it’s trying at all.

(more plus pictures after the jump)

The name Bullitt comes from the the Steve McQueen movie of the same name. This movie gained fame for the legendary car chase in which McQueen himself drove a rather plain looking green Mustang fastback. With Ford’s Bullitt edition we have a car that harkens back to the era of the film with its lack of identifying badging. According to the Ford press release the common practice in filmmaking was to remove manufacturer badges. No blue oval Ford badge, no pony in the grill. The perhaps unintended effect was a car which was both purposeful in appearance and at the same time stealthy. The original movie car was Highland Green, today’s Bullitt sports Dark Highland Green which is exclusive, having only appeared on the the 2001 Bullitt edition Mustang but you can get one in black if you really want.

So logos have been kept to a minimum. Typically this would be marketing suicide but the Mustang is one of those instantly recognizable icons. Not retro in the truest sense of the term but rather genuine. If you could transport this car to 1970 nearly anyone seeing it would know it immediately it was a Mustang. I’m hard pressed to think of a single model that existed in the 60s other than Porsche’s 911 that would be so readily recognized in its present day form.

OK, so I said it was largely a styling exercise but the ’08 Bullitt promises more than just understated good looks. Motivation comes courtesy of a 4.6 liter V8 now delivering 315 horses and 325 pound-feet of torque. A newly designed cold air intake plays a part in making that power. Suspension as well has been tweaked for an even more sporting nature and a strut tower pace reinforces torsional and lateral rigidity.

Expect a retail price of $31,075 when the Bullitt Edition shows up in January. Your extra money gets you a dash more performance, a dash more handling and a bucketload of cool. Don’t wait around though a production run of 7700 will go pretty quickly when Mustang and McQueen fans start buying these up.

A detailed feature list and photos follow.

The Bullitt package enhances the Mustang GT Premium package with the following:

• 3.73:1 Limited Slip Rear Axle
• Ford Racing Power Pack (cold air induction system)
• High Performance Calipation
• Performance Friction Carbon Metallic® front pake pads
• Ford Racing Strut Tower pace
• Sport –tuned suspension (shocks/springs/stabilizer bar)
• Modified “H” Pipe
• Dark Grey pake Calipers
• 18-inch Euro-Flange Bullitt Wheels with Charcoal Satin Finish
• 3.5-inch Packed Exhaust Tips
• Distinct Upper Grille
• Bullitt emblem on faux fuel cap
• Black interior with upgraded steering wheel
• Charcoal Black sport leather seats
• Unique IP finish (hand-machined aluminum swirl)
• Satin Aluminum interior accents (ball shifter/sill plate/pedal covers)

Standard content also includes:

• 4.6-liter 3-valve V-8 engine
• 5-speed manual transmission
• Auxiliary audio input jack
• One-touch up-down power windows
• Power mirrors and door locks
• Keyless entry
• Air conditioning
• Tilt steering wheel
• Speed control
• Rear window defroster
• Four-wheel power disc pakes
• Anti-lock paking System (ABS) with Traction Control
• Seat-mounted side air bags
• LATCH
• Personal Safety System®
• SecuriLock®
• Tire Pressure Monitoring System
• Shaker 500 Audio System with six-disc CD player, MP3 and eight speakers