2012 Lamborghini LP550-2 Gallardo Spyder special limited edition

2012 Lamborghini LP550-2 Gallardo Spyder special limited edition

2012 Lamborghini Gallardo LP550-2 Spyder special edition limited to 250 units in 2011 Los Angeles Auto Show. This version combines astonishing levels of the open-air driving pleasure that can only come from a super car with folding roof and incredibly agile and spontaneous movement. The new Lamborghini Gallardo LP550-2 Spyder optimized to provide better aerodynamics for a more enjoyable and safe driving with the use of specific settings, suspension, aerodynamics adapted to compensate for changes in the balance of power, 45 percent differential Self-locking, and the adoption of electronic transmission. It also has a "perfect adaptation of the ESP stability control system."

"With the Gallardo LP550-2, we are expanding the range of Lamborghini with a purist model, which adds another dimension of driving pleasure. This appeal, in particular, a special group of customers that use the dynamic driving style, real pleasure and I would try to help open air, "says Stephan Winkelmann, President and CEO of Automobili Lamborghini. "This special model with rear-wheel drive is a logical extension of our range of models with all-wheel Spyder".

The most important technical characteristics of the Lamborghini LP550-2 Spyder, the model designation already recognizable - LP stands for longitudinal / rear, center, embedded longitudinally in front of the rear axle. Refers to the 550 horsepower and 2 is a rear wheel drive. At Lamborghini Spyder word means the final synthesis of exciting, highly expressive design, super sports car in the open air the ultimate thrill and fun for all the senses.

Lamborghini Gallardo Spyder LP550-2 with a rear-wheel drive is ideal for the kind of sporty driving style you love the most practical and energetic driving. The installation of pavement to the rear is a reliable and stable at all times while on the front axle steers with high levels of accuracy and limits the movement to an absolute minimum.

2012 Lamborghini LP550-2 Gallardo Spyder special limited edition

With the most powerful V10 engine, controlled oversteer is not a problem, although there is always and only to the extent required by the driver. Its easy management of on-road ESP and assistant designed to make these cars Lamborghini Gallardo LP550-2 Spyder outstanding sports car safe to drive.

To form the unique character of driving pleasure and safety engineers made extensive modifications to Bologna to San Lamborghini Gallardo Spyder LP550-2, developed specifically for these new features. Not only is the disk centered on the rear axle, the car has been completely reconfigured in all its dynamic components. It includes settings for shock absorbers. Aerodynamics have been adjusted to reflect changes in the distribution of forces.

Vehicle to show their wares for the rear axle with a 45 percent differential locks as well as the adoption of electronic transmission. All filled with a fine-tuned ESP stability system. While the standard program puts the priority on stability, the program allows angles derived great course and provides an assessment of the full dynamics of intense LP550-2. All the superior performance of the Gallardo chassis fully maintained - a pleasant bodyroll comfort, as well as its excellent driving stability at high speeds.

2012 Lamborghini LP550-2 Gallardo Spyder special limited edition

2012 Lamborghini Gallardo LP550 Engine-2 Spyder will be powered by the same engine found in the sedan: 5.2-liter V10, which provides a total of 550 hp and 398 Nm of torque. Lamborghini Gallardo LP550-2 unit is connected to the Spyder recently adopted electronic transmission. However, this setting is 3351 pounds Gallardo sprints 0-60 miles / h in 4.2 seconds on the way to a top speed of 198 km / h.

Heart Gallardo - 5.2-liter ten-cylinder engine - also set and its characteristics are optimized for the rear-wheel drive, providing a perfect combination of fun and exciting high-speed, traction, exuberant and powerful melodies in all keys.

With the Gallardo LP550-2 Spyder, Lamborghini expands its line of the most successful of all time (in today's total of 11.800 was built in St. Bologna), with an amazing version, which continues the successful identification of its range . This includes the LP560-4 Spyder, as well as high performance Gallardo LP570-4 Spyder performance, which has a further weight reduction through lightweight carbon fiber technology. The latest version of the coupe versions of the Gallardo LP570-4 Super Trofeo Road - road racing version of the car found in the fastest one-make series racing in the world.

2012 Lamborghini Gallardo LP550-Price 2 Spyder starting price of $ 209,000, not including original shipping charge and $ 2,995 gas guzzler, to go on sale in March 2012.

2012 Ferrari Sport Cars 458 Italia Grand Am

2012 Ferrari Sport Cars 458 Italia Grand Am

2011 for a private test session at Florida's Daytona International Speedway, the 2012 Ferrari Sport Cars 458 Italia Grand Am will be back in action on 26 and 27 July, after making its track debut at home in Fiorano, completing nearly 50 test laps. Based on Ferrari's European GT3 racecar and co-developed with Michelotto Automobili. MARANELLO, Italy — Ferrari will take the still-evolving Grand Am racing version of its 458 Italia to the Daytona International Speedway early next week, as the Italian automaker continues to develop the 2012 Ferrari Sport Cars 458 Italia Grand Am ahead of its anticipated entry next year in the 2012 Grand-Am Rolex Sports Car Series.

2012 Ferrari Sport Cars 458 Italia Grand Am

“We are pleased with the performance of the 2012 Ferrari Sport Cars 458 Italia Grand Am,” commented Antonello Coletta, Head of Ferrari Corse Clienti. “Especially when one considers the fact that, after its shakedown in Fiorano, this is its first real test. It has definitely passed the exam and over two days, we completed around 90 laps with any particular reliability problems. Hard to judge its speed, given that we were the only car on track and had no reference point for the times. However, at the moment, this is not a main concern as our primary interest is in evaluating the behavior of the 2012 Ferrari Sport Cars 458 Italia Grand Am in the light of the various modifications made to it, to conform to the series regulations."

2012 Ferrari Sport Cars 458 Italia Grand Am

The Ferrari of Fort Lauderdale owned Ferrari F458 Italia was built specifically for Rolex Sports Car Series competition and completed 174 trouble-free laps at competitive speeds during a two-day session at Daytona International Speedway. "Today was a tremendous improvement over yesterday," said Ferrari of Fort Lauderdale team principal Ronnie Vogel. "We've got good feelings about the 2012 Ferrari Sport Cars 458 Italia Grand Am, and the drivers were very comfortable out there. We had a great time, and now we're really looking forward to the 50th Rolex 24 at Daytona."

2012 Ferrari Sport Cars 458 Italia Grand Am

"We're planning to run two cars in the Rolex 24, and hoping to take delivery of the second car very soon," Vogel said. "We're also working on our driver lineups for the Rolex 24 and next season, and that's being ironed out now."

2012 Ferrari Sport Cars 458 Italia Grand Am

The 2012 Ferrari Sport Cars 458 Italia Grand Am is built to match the American regulations and is therefore different to the European car, especially in that it develops 500 horsepower and has less efficient aerodynamics than the GT version. It is also fitted with a 48 mm restrictor and maximum revs are 8000. Significant modifications have been made to the braking system, as the car has neither ABS nor traction control.

2012 Ferrari Sport Cars 458 Italia Grand Am

The 2012 Ferrari Sport Cars 458 Italia Grand Am is fitted with tyres from Continental, the sole supplier to the series, featuring a very hard compound, again to conform with the series regulations. On its shakedown today, it completed a good number of trouble-free laps, 45 to be precise in the hands of Maurizio Mediani and Jaime Melo, as they took turns at the wheel.

2012 Ferrari Sport Cars 458 Italia Grand Am

Daytona recalls many memories of past Ferrari victories in the famous 24 Hour race, the company having close links with this important event. In fact, Ferrari has taken part in 47 of these endurance races, winning five of them outright as well as taking 15 class wins.

2012 Ferrari Sport Cars 458 Italia Grand Am

2012 Ferrari Sport Cars 458 Italia Grand Am is a highly innovative cars and sporty, therefore, has a lot of people who can not wait to see the appearance of the Ferrari 458 Italian Grand Am anymore. With a design that has been designed with advanced concepts, will make the 2012 Ferrari Sport Cars 458 Italia Grand Am became more interesting and cool.

Audi Sport Cars Concept Audi A5 DTM

Audi Sport Cars Concept Audi A5 DTM

Two months after checking out the A5 DTM racer concept, Audi has whipped out the production model at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show. Internally named "R17," the Audi Sport Cars Concept Audi A5 DTM will replace the four-door A4 DTM with which Audi has won the DTM title four times since 2004. Codenamed the "R17," the Audi Sport Cars Concept Audi A5 DTM replaced the old A4 DTM and is scheduled for homologation on March 1, 2012. Until then, engineers will be busy putting it to some extreme testing. Referred to internally at Audi Sport as the "R17", the Audi Sport Cars Concept Audi A5 DTM features a unique hybrid construction coupling a carbon monocoque body and a steel cage forming the cockpit.

Audi Sport Cars Concept Audi A5 DTM

The new upgraded A5 that is will be arriving at dealerships shortly provides the basis for the new DTM car. “In 2012 new Technical Regulations will come into effect in the DTM,” says Head of Audi Motorsport Dr. Wolfgang Ullrich. “We’ve got exactly the right model for that in the A5. We’re convinced that we’ll be able to continue Audi’s success story with it in the DTM.”

Audi Sport Cars Concept Audi A5 DTM

The company was quiet on specifics, but said the Audi Sport Cars Concept Audi A5 DTM has a high-strength carbon-fiber monocoque with a steel roll cage that is fully-compliant with the latest safety regulations. Ingolstadt’s new touring model is based on the facelifted New Audi Sport Cars Concept Audi A5 DTM that was presented earlier this week and it complies with the new technical and safety regulations that will come in effect in the German touring model championship next year.

Audi Sport Cars Concept Audi A5 DTM

The New Audi Sport Cars Concept Audi A5 DTM Concept sports a high-strength carbon-fiber monocoque combined with a steel tube cage. The racing model adopts the current A4 DTM’s V8 engine with some minor changes and an output or around 460-horses. A six-speed transmission will continue to be used as well. Furthermore, power will be provided by a V8 engine - that is adopted from the A4 DTM - with approximately 460 PS (340 kW / 456 PS).

Audi Sport Cars Concept Audi A5 DTM

“Our engineers have been involved in bringing up safety in the DTM, which had already been high before, to the highest possible level,” explains Dr. Ullrich. “At Le Mans this year we learned again that our concept of designing safety structures is a very good and appropriate one. This is exactly what we’ve been trying to feed into the DTM’s safety concept together with our colleagues from BMW and Mercedes-Benz. This new principle is an outstanding example of what is possible when employees of three premium manufacturers try to achieve a common aim: to get the best possible, lowest-cost and safest vehicle – and a fantastic car in general – off the ground.”

Audi Sport Cars Concept Audi A5 DTM

The Audi Sport Cars Concept Audi A5 DTM is 5.01 meters long, 1.95 meters wide, and 1.15 meters low, and is completely made in carbon fiber. It is powered by a V8 engine mated to six-speed transmission, now pneumatically operated using paddle shifters in the steering wheel. The shifting events are more precise compared with conventional manual gearshifts and allow the mileage of the unit to be quadrupled to up to 24,000 kilometers. The whole setup delivers a total of 460 HP. The race car has also received a safety fuel tank with a capacity of 120 liters integrated with the carbon fiber cell of the Audi Sport Cars Concept Audi A5 DTM that allows the current distance of a DTM race to be covered without a refueling stop.

Audi Sport Cars Concept Audi A5 DTM

However, it’s under the skin that the biggest changes have been made. The new rules have been designed to cut costs (the main reason that BMW has re-joined the series) but also to make the cars even safer. Which means a carbonfibre monocoque (with an integrated fuel tank) and steel roll cage, together with sidewalls made of a carbon, Zylon and Rohacell hybrid, as the new DTM racers now have to be able to withstand a static load that is four times higher than before. And rather than just the front and rear crash elements of each DTM car being individually crash-tested, the whole vehicle is now fired against a wall to make sure the entire structure is up to scratch.

Audi Sport Cars Concept Audi A5 DTM

Given the rules of DTM racers, which all have to sport certain identical features such as the 2,750 mm (108 inches) wheelbase, Audi was able to lower costs on the Audi Sport Cars Concept Audi A5 DTM development by up to 40 percent. The model will be homologated for March 1st and will compete in the 2012 DTM series against German rivals BMW and Mercedes-Benz. While the renderings show a pre-facelift model, Audi says the production vehicle will closely resemble the 2012 A5 Coupe which is slated to go on sale later this year. Audi has shared a trio of renderings of the New Audi Sport Cars Concept Audi A5 DTM but we’ll get the chance to see the real thing at the upcoming Frankfurt Motor Show in September.

2012 Porsche Sport Cars Panamera Diesel

2012 Porsche Sport Cars Panamera Diesel

Porsche has finally launched the long-awaited Panamera diesel, with sales starting in August. The Panamera range extends with the introduction of the new 2012 Porsche Sport Cars Panamera Diesel, further enhancing the model's appeal to UK customers. A luxury Gran Turismo, the 2012 Porsche Sport Cars Panamera Diesel is capable of taking four passengers in sporting comfort from Lands End to Loch Ness without refuelling.

2012 Porsche Sport Cars Panamera Diesel

The New Porsche Panamera this time further improve the model for English, 2012 Porsche Sport Cars Panamera Diesel is able to take four passengers in comfort sport. sporting performance is delivered by the smooth-running 3.0-liter V6 engine with a rated output of 250 hp (184 kW) achieved Between 3.800 rpm and 4.400 rpm.

2012 Porsche Sport Cars Panamera Diesel offers a very attractive driving range of more than 745 miles on one tank of 80 liters, emits 172 g / km and gives 43.5mpg combined fuel economy (6.5 l/100 km). With optional low rolling resistance tires, improved efficiency further still, to 167 g / km and 44.8mpg on the Combined cycle. Available with rear-wheel drive and uses a highly efficient eight-speed Tiptronic S as standard. Six-cylinder turbo diesel engine power of new Gran Turismo 0-62 mph (0-100 km / h) 6.8 seconds, with a top speed of 150 mph (242 km / h).

The 2012 Porsche Sport Cars Panamera Diesel copes effortlessly with short bursts of speed and alpine transits. This is delivered by the three-liter V6 engine with a rated output of 250 hp (184 kW) achieved between 3,800 rpm and 4,400 rpm.

2012 Porsche Sport Cars Panamera Diesel

The maximum torque of 406 lb-ft (550 Nm) available all the way from 1,750 rpm to 2,750 rpm delivers high pulling power. Married to the highly efficient eight-speed Tiptronic S, the six-cylinder turbo diesel powers the new Gran Turismo from a standing start to 60 mph in 6.6 seconds, with a top speed of 150 mph (242 km/h). The Panamera Diesel is exclusively available with rear-wheel drive.

2012 Porsche Sport Cars Panamera Diesel

The model’s 3.0-litre V6 engine is state of the art in diesel technology: common rail direct injection through piezo valves at a pressure of 2000 bar, turbocharging employing electrically controlled variable geometry turbochargers (VGTs) and emission control achieved by controlled exhaust gas recirculation, oxidation catalyst and particle filter.

2012 Porsche Sport Cars Panamera Diesel

Every Panamera, including the new Diesel model, has a high level of standard specification that includes leather interior, Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM), Bi-Xenon headlights, front and rear ParkAssist, tyre pressure monitoring, automatic dimming rear view mirrors, Porsche Communication Management with touch-screen satellite navigation and audio controls, cruise control and a three year warranty.

2012 Porsche Sport Cars Panamera Diesel

Fitted to every Panamera is a Porsche Vehicle Tracking System (VTS), a sophisticated vehicle security package approved to Thatcham Category 5 standard, and customers will also be able to explore the potential of their new car by participating in a complimentary course at the Porsche Experience Centre, Silverstone.

2012 Porsche Sport Cars Panamera Diesel

Developed from the outset as a four-seater vehicle, in terms also of interior design and the individual comfort of each and every occupant the Gran Turismo ploughs its own furrow. Notwithstanding its distinctive flat and stretched silhouette, 4.97 meters in length and a mere 142 centimeters high, the Panamera Diesel affords generous accommodation for all four seats. The new model can be recognized by the lettering "diesel" on the front doors.

The 2012 Porsche Sport Cars Panamera Diesel costs ( £62,134 ) 80,183 euro in Germany including VAT and country-specific equipment and will be available for delivery from August 2011. At this time, there is no information about a possible introduction of this model on the North American market.

2012 Porsche Sport Cars Panamera Diesel

2012 BMW Sport Cars 650i Convertible

2012 BMW Sport Cars 650i Convertible

The all-new BMW 650i Convertible fulfils the wishes of the most discerning automotive enthusiast as The Ultimate Driving Machine with groundbreaking luxury and crisp good looks. BMW has opened a new chapter in the tradition of open-top cars. The 2012 BMW Sport Cars 650i Convertible will go on sale in the Spring of 2011 in the United States. Final pricing, options, and packages will be announced closer to the on-sale date.

2012 BMW Sport Cars 650i Convertible

With the BMW 6-Series Coupe Concept debuting at the 2010 Los Angeles International Auto Show as its backdrop, BMW announced the production-ready 2012 BMW Sport Cars 650i Convertible. In the premium convertible market, the 2012 BMW Sport Cars 650i Convertible presents a convincing case with the most advanced chassis technology and most innovative comfort, infotainment and safety features.

2012 BMW Sport Cars 650i Convertible

A sweeping hood, aft-set passenger compartment, long wheelbase and muscular profile embody the hallmark proportions of a BMW Convertible. The new 2012 BMW Sport Cars 650i Convertible combines these features with a classic soft-top roof with flying buttress design. Powerfully contoured surfaces of its lines promise the anticipated BMW driving experience. The luxurious ambience of the interior is highlighted by a driver-oriented cockpit which wraps the front and rear passengers in a feeling of aesthetic security. Nowhere is the high-class functionality of the interior underlined more prominently than in the redesigned freestanding 10.2" Central Display of the standard iDrive control system.

2012 BMW Sport Cars 650i Convertible

The 4.4-liter V-8 engine develops a maximum 400 hp between 5,500 and 6,400 rpm, and makes peak torque of 450 lb-ft between 1,750 and 4,500 rpm (preliminary). This unique "reverse-flow" engine, whose turbochargers are positioned in the V-area between the cylinder banks, produces an instantaneous and sustained wave of power, making it an energetic delight for the enthusiast driver. Instantaneous power and torque are the stand-out features of the V-8 engine available of the new 2012 BMW Sport Cars 650i Convertible. The engine combines sporting character with outstanding smoothness, linear power delivery, and exceptional efficiency. The engine can be paired with either BMW's new 8-speed Sport Automatic gearbox or BMW's traditional 6-speed manual transmission, quite popular with North American enthusiasts.

The 2012 BMW Sport Cars 650i Convertible completes the sprint from 0 to 60 mph in 4.9 seconds with the manual transmission (4.9 seconds with the 8-speed automatic), and top speed is electronically limited to 155 mph. This engine also boasts extraordinary efficiency for a model in its output class. EPA figures will be available closer to the on-sale date in 2011.

2012 BMW Sport Cars 650i Convertible

The 8-speed Sport Automatic transmission fitted to the new BMW 650i Convertible boasts a perfect combination of speed, flexibility, sportiness, and efficiency. Its minimal torque converter slip and rapid gear changes set it apart. An innovative gear set configuration allows this transmission to offer eight gears, optimizing the sprinting power yet allowing the driver to save fuel by driving at low revs. Naturally, the driver can choose to select gears manually via shift paddles on the standard Sport leather steering wheel.

2012 BMW Sport Cars 650i Convertible

The new 2012 BMW Sport Cars 650i Convertible is the first car in its class that can be equipped with Integral Active Steering. This system combines the Active Steering system for the front axle (available on the previous generation 6-Series Convertible) with a new, steerable rear axle. Precisely harmonized steering angle movements at both axles create a virtual lengthening or shortening of the vehicle's wheelbase, which fosters greater high-speed stability and enhanced maneuverability for parking and city use.

2012 BMW Sport Cars 650i Convertible

Like its predecessor, the new 2012 BMW Sport Cars 650i Convertible is the only vehicle in its class with an optional Head-Up Display system. By projecting important information onto the windshield, directly in the driver's line of sight, the Head-Up Display minimizes distraction from the road and traffic. The new-generation system brings a further improvement in display quality: the symbols are projected as three-dimensional graphics and in ultra-clear resolution onto the windshield. Full-color capability makes the road sign symbols even more realistic. At the same time the Head-Up Display is now able to present a wider range of information. Depending on vehicle specification, guidance information supplied by the Navigation system, Check Control messages, status messages from the Lane Departure Warning System and warnings from the BMW Night Vision system can all be shown in the Head-Up Display. The positioning of the messages on the windshield is highly ergonomic, so that drivers are aware of them without having to refocus or take their eyes off the road.

2012 BMW Sport Cars 650i Convertible

The new 2012 BMW Sport Cars 650i Convertible is built at the BMW plant in Dingolfing, Germany. Also rolling off the assembly line at the BMW Group's largest production plant are the BMW 7-Series and BMW 5-Series models. The flexible and efficient processes at the plant combine state-of-the-art production technology with a standard of quality defined by meticulous craftsmanship in the manufacture of premium cars configured to customer requirements.

2012 Chevrolet Sport Cars Camaro SS Honor and Valor Edition

2012 Chevrolet Sport Cars Camaro SS Honor and Valor Edition

Press Release – Apr 28, 2011 – Chevrolet is proud to announce the exclusive 2012 Chevrolet Honor & Valor Limited Edition Camaro SS – a vehicle whose rare combination of power, performance and precision exemplifies the indomitable spirit of our troops, and is ready for action as America’s 21st century sports car.

2012 Chevrolet Sport Cars Camaro SS Honor and Valor Edition

General Motors released in 2012 Chevrolet Sport Cars Camaro SS Honor and Valor Edition for the armed forces of the United States, to show their appreciation for the American troops. In recognition of Chevrolet’s 100th birthday, only 99 units of the “Honor & Valor” Limited Edition Camaro SS will be built and are only available to eligible members* of the military (the first unit will be auctioned with net proceeds going to Cell Phones for Soldiers). Orders are now being accepted and will be prioritized on a first-come, first-served basis.

2012 Chevrolet Sport Cars Camaro SS Honor and Valor Edition

This model is basically a collection of 2012 Camaro SS, which comes with special accents such as a painted body kit, white side stripes, premium floor mats, XM Satellite Radio, black leather seats, a so-called special “honor” badge, a grille insert and surround similar and in addition to the rumbling, American-as-it-can-get 6.2-liter V-8 with a choice of manual or automatic transmission. (We say get the manual, as it hooks to the 426-hp LS3 in place of automatic models’ 400-horse L99.) The 2012 Chevrolet Sport Cars Camaro SS Honor and Valor Edition will officially debut at Indy 500 military personnel parade on May 28.

2012 Chevrolet Sport Cars Camaro SS Honor and Valor Edition will only be available in red, white, and –er, black. Production is limited to 99 examples, and much like Harley-Davidson’s police and firefighter edition models, cars will only be made available to buyers actively serving in the U.S. Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, or Coast Guard. Interested buyers can place an order through www.gmmilitarydiscount.com

2012 Chevrolet Sport Cars Camaro SS Honor and Valor Edition

Chevrolet Sport Cars is celebrating National Military Appreciation Month by expanding its GM Military Discount  to military spouses and retirees; offering an exclusive “Honor” badge to anyone who buys an eligible Chevrolet through the program. For each eligible vehicle sold, GM will donate $100 to Cell Phones for Soldiers.

2012 Chevrolet Sport Cars Camaro SS Honor and Valor Edition

“We are committed to offering military professionals and their family members the best value in the industry,” said Dan Akerson, General Motors Chairman and CEO.  “As a former Navy man, I hold the highest regard for the men and women of our Armed Forces – past and present – who help keep our country safe and preserve our precious liberties.”

2012 Chevrolet Sport Cars Camaro SS Honor and Valor Edition

The GM Military Discount program is extended to spouses of Active and Reserve members, as well as retirees, of the U.S. Air Force, Army, Navy, Marines, National Guard and Coast Guard. The discount is available on most Chevrolet, Buick and GMC models with discounts typically ranging between $500 and $4,000 off MSRP.

2012 Chevrolet Sport Cars Camaro SS Honor and Valor Edition

Production of this special 2012 Chevrolet Sport Cars Camaro SS Honor and Valor Edition military model begins in July, and deliveries are scheduled for August.

2012 Nissan Sport Cars Nissan Leaf Nismo RC Concept

2012 Nissan Sport Cars Nissan Leaf Nismo RC Concept

Nissan will unveil a racing variant of the Leaf electric car at the 2011 New York Auto Show, but the Nissan Leaf NISMO RC has little in common with its more pedestrian "sibling." NISMO started with a lithium ion battery pack and badging from a stock Leaf, then built a completely new vehicle around it.

2012 Nissan Sport Cars Nissan Leaf Nismo RC Concept

Despite featuring the same electric underpinnings as the production LEAF which went on sale in the US, Europe and Japan in December, the 2012 Nissan Sport Cars Nissan Leaf Nismo RC Concept – for ‘Racing Competition’ – is a genuine performance hatch. According to Nissan engineers, the 2012 Nissan Sport Cars Nissan Leaf Nismo RC Concept has achieved 0-100km/h sprint times of 6.85 seconds in preliminary testing, making it faster than a Volkswagen Golf GTI. Its top speed is a less spritely but still impressive 150km/h.

2012 Nissan Sport Cars Nissan Leaf Nismo RC Concept, the name that is written on its back panel just under the huge rear-wing. Its powertrain is 100% zero-emission Lithium-ion battery design, just like the one on the world’s first affordable mass market electric vehicle. Despite the lack of rear doors, rear seat, audio system, navigation, and other amenities, there is obvious family resemblance. But that’s where the similarities of the production Nissan Leaf and the Nissan Leaf Nismo RC end.

2012 Nissan Sport Cars Nissan Leaf Nismo RC Concept

There are no rear doors; the carpeting, navigation and stereo system are gone; and the battery pack has been relocated to the middle of the vehicle for better weight distribution. Speaking of weight, the 2012 Nissan Sport Cars Nissan Leaf Nismo RC Concept is about 40 percent lighter than the production Leaf, as a carbon fibre monocoque platform and more compact dimensions cut total weight to just 2,068 pounds. The race-ready Leaf is also a foot shorter and 6.7 inches wider, and with a scant 2.4 inches of ground clearance.

The 2012 Nissan Sport Cars Nissan Leaf Nismo RC Concept was created at the Nissan Global Design Centre in Japan and features removable front and rear sections, driver-adjustable rear wing, fixed windows, LED headlights, four-coat Pearl White paint, 18-inch six-spoke alloy wheels and Bridgestone racing tyres.

2012 Nissan Sport Cars Nissan Leaf Nismo RC Concept designed as a true racing machine car, starting with its full carbon fiber. The three body parts includes removable front and rear, fixed windows, LED headlights and taillights and rear wing adjustable. Special paint pearl white coat with 4-blue Nismo / Zero Emission graphics complete the exterior. 2012 Nissan Sport Cars Nissan Leaf Nismo RC Concept, which the “RC” stands for Racing Competition – makes its world debut at the 2011 New York International Auto Show, built to deliver a new meaning to the term “Racing Green.”

2012 Nissan Sport Cars Nissan Leaf Nismo RC Concept

Nissan says the NISMO RC will be used for demonstration purposes, so don't expect this Leaf to compete any time soon. The automaker does say, however, that it's considering a zero-emission spec series for the future. With an estimated run time of 20 minutes under racing conditions, the 30 minute quick-charge time (to achieve 80 percent capacity) would make for some leisurely pit stops. When the 2012 Nissan Sport Cars Nissan Leaf Nismo RC Concept is in motion, its 80kW AC motor generates 107 horsepower and 207 pound-feet of torque; good enough for a 0-60 time of 6.85 seconds and a 150-kph top speed of 93 miles per hour. It is projected to have a running time of around 20 minutes under racing conditions.

2012 Nissan Sport Cars Nissan Leaf Nismo RC Concept

“Combining the talents of Nismo, Nissan’s world renowned motorsports group, and engineers behind some of the company’s Super GT and FIA GT1 race teams, the Nissan Leaf Nismo RC will serve as a rolling laboratory for the accelerated development of EV and aerodynamic systems, as well as a platform for the development of new green motorsports series,” said Carlos Tavares, chairman, Nissan Americas in a statement. “Nissan LEAF owners are fully embracing this new world of zero emission technology. We believe the same potential exists in the motorsports world as well, with Nissan proud to be first on the starting grid.”