Techart showed strength at the Nardo-circuit, managing 321,2 km/h with a Cayenne producing 680 HP.
From the press release:
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321,2 km/h – Fullsize-SUV high speed record for TECHART
Leonberg, December 2009. TECHART Automobildesign really set the sparks flying at this year`s trial of strength at the High Speed Event in Nardo/Italy. Test driver Sandro Reuter reached a top speed of 321,2 km/h, respectively 200 mph, with the TECHART refined Porsche Cayenne Turbo. TECHART thus secured a new speed record for Fullsize-SUVs. The circular 12.4 kilometer track is still considered to be the world´s fastest motor racing circuit, even ahead of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in the United States. The winner car, refined with the TECHART equipment, is based on a Porsche Cayenne Turbo with Turbo S technology. The installed TA 055/2.2 performance kit takes the engine up to 680 hp, an increase of 130 hp compared with the standard production model. The Aerodynamics Kit I, together with the “Sport” air suspension module, additionally delivered the necessary performance on the circuit. But thought was also given to TECHART´s usual external upgrades on the vehicle. The TECHART daytime running lights, sports steering wheel, carbon kit, aluminium pedals, decorative stitching and seat belts in gray, additional leather in Luxury Black and illuminated door entry guards with the TECHART logo made the car to a highlight in the pit lane. Along with the driver`s skills, this success was primarily driven by the perfect, systematic adjustment of the wheels and the suspension. For the record run at moderate temperatures the TECHART Team chose Continental Cross Contact UHP high-performance tires on 22-inch TECHART Formula rims, which were exposed to specific loading as a result of the one-sided cornering on the circuit. Longstanding TECHART test driver Sandro Reuter said with great satisfaction: “The SUV was ideally prepared for the event. Both the engine and the tires showed a high level of performance and consistency.”
TopGear has put two of the most serious heavyhitters of all time up against each other. Veyron vs F1. Tell me which one you would prefer. Come on, comments please!!
Sorry guys, I normally enjoy G-Powers wild M3s, M5s and M6s. But this just doesn´t do it for me. I will reconsider if the company shows the cars in all black. More stealthy. But I do like the 600+ HP and 300+ km/h topspeed.
Here is what the company says:
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Derived from the G-POWER Widebody-Kit TYPHOON, G-POWER presents an excitingly styled aerodynamics pack made of full carbon which renders 15 percent more cooling power to the 4.4l V8 BI-Turbo engine in the BMW X5 M and X6 M and therefore clears the way for increasing the basic performance by 45 hp to altogether 600 hp. The first thing catching your eye with M-models modified by G-POWER, is the front skirt made of full carbon which entirely replaces the original component part. The front skirt with the striking air inlets derives from the G-POWER Widebody-Kit TYPHOON RS and turns the visual appearance of the BMW X5 M and X6 M significantly more aggressive. Due to the elaborate design, the aerodynamic lifting forces at the front axles could be also reduced. A further highlight is the G-POWER TYHPOON bonnet made of Kevlar hybrid or full carbon which ensures an improved removal of the hot exit air from both turbo chargers out of the engine compartment by a central Venturi engine compartment ventilation for driving and 2 lateral ABS-grids for the standard ventilation. Moreover, the new face of the BMW X5 M and X6 M are formed in a subtle way.
Moreover, the G-POWER full carbon add-ons for the serial side skirts perfectly and harmonically combine the visual intersection between the wheel houses. With the X5 M, these contain forged, one-part G-POWER SILVERSTONE EDITION aluminium wheels in the dimensions 11x23 and 12x23 inches, whereas the X6 M is equipped with three-part G-POWER RS forged wheel in the same dimension (if desired, also available in 22 inches). As far as the tyres are concerned, G-POWER counts on balance and uses 315/25 ZR 23 high performance tyres by its development partner Michelin for optimal traction and dynamic handling which are further enhanced by the G-POWER sports spring set and a lowering by additional 30 mm.
The BMW X5 M and X6 M are both perfected by the G-POWER full carbon diffuser which elegantly emphasises the 4 x 100 mm end pipes with G-POWER logos. Optionally, also a G-POWER full stainless steel end muffler is available. It enhances the 4 x 100 mm end pipes also with the patented DEEPTONE sound which is so typical for G-POWER. Exclusively for the BMW X6 M, a rear spoiler made of full carbon which additionally reduces the downforce at the rear axle can be optionally ordered with the rear diffuser.
But the appearance of the BMW X5 M and X6 M is not only visually improved by the G-POWER TYPHOON S aerodynamics pack. Due to the enlarged air inlets at the front skirt and the exit air outlets at the bonnet, more cold air reaches the water coolers and oil coolers at the car front. Therefore, the cooling performance improves by 15 percent. This is the basis for a thermally healthy performance enhancement by an electronic optimisation developed by G-POWER which is based on changing the engine characteristics and removing the V-max limitation. Therefore, an additional 45 hp are generated and the overall performance rises to mighty 600 hp at 6,000 r.p.m and 700 Nm torque from 2,000 r.p.m. The enormous performance potential of the BMW V8 BI-Turbo engines modified by G-POWER empower the two “Off-road cars“ with driving performances catapulting them into the top group of their vehicle class: the acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h only takes 4.5 seconds. After 16.2 seconds, already 200 km/h are achieved. The maximum speed is more than 300 km/h.
One of the most crazy cars, oooops, sorry. SUVs this year? Think so....
A shortened version of the press release:
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Dubai, December 11th, 2009 With a top speed of 322.3 km/h (200.3 mph) the BRABUS GLK V12 has set a new speed record for street-legal SUVs on the Italian high-speed test track on October 19th, 2009. The exclusive special model, powered by a twelve-cylinder twin turbo engine with 750 hp (740 bhp) / 552 kW, celebrates its world debut at the DUBAI INTERNATIONAL MOTOR SHOW. The BRABUS GLK V12 starts at 397,000 Euros MSRP.
The new BRABUS SV12 R Biturbo 750 engine was implanted in the small engine bay of the GLK with meticulous precision. The engineers and technicians drew upon their experience and know-how gathered from the development and production of the special model BRABUS BULLIT, based on the latest Mercedes C-Class. The motor delivers 750 hp (740 bhp) / 552 kW at 5,500 rpm and produces a peak torque of 1,350 Nm (995 lb-ft) at 2,100 rpm, limited in the car electronically to 1,100 Nm (811 lb-ft). To achieve this kind of performance, the engine –based on the latest Mercedes 600 twelve- cylinder engine – was completely re-engineered in the BRABUS engine department. Displacement is increased from 5.5 to 6.3 liters with the help of a special crankshaft, larger cylinder bore, special pistons and piston rods. In addition the three-valve heads are precision-machined and fitted with special camshafts. For maximum power yield the BRABUS engineers have developed a special twin turbo system with two larger turbochargers and more efficient intercoolers. Free-flow metal catalysts and a fully stainless-steel high-performance exhaust system custom-tailored to the GLK body let the BRABUS SV12 R 750 Biturbo engine breathe more freely. Custom-programmed engine electronics ensure an optimal symbiosis of power yield, running smoothness and especially eco-friendly exhaust emissions. The enormous power is transferred to the rear wheels via a reinforced five-speed automatic transmission and a BRABUS limited-slip differential with a locking rate of 40 percent.
Together these measures make the BRABUS GLK V12 the fastest street-legal SUV in the world. But it is not just the incredible top speed of 322.3 km/h (211 mph) that are the basis for its fascination. With an acceleration time from rest to 100 km/h (62 mph) of just 4.2 seconds and 12.8 seconds to 200 km/h (124 mph) the five-door sets new standards for its kind. BRABUS manages this extraordinary SUV performance with custom modifications to aerodynamics, suspension and brakes. The front apron of the BRABUS WIDESTAR version was developed in the wind tunnel. Its large air dams provide radiators and front brakes with ample cooling air. In combination with a carbon-fiber spoiler lip the front apron also minimizes aerodynamic lift on the front axle –a prerequisite for directional stability beyond 300 km/h (186 mph).
Favorable aerodynamic properties were also a top priority for the design of the BRABUS WIDESTAR fender flares on front and rear axle. The larger wheel houses of the record car provide space for BRABUS Monoblock wheels up to king-size wheels with a diameter of 22 inches. The size 10Jx22 wheels come in five different designs: GLK V12 customers can choose from the new BRABUS Monoblock G five- spoke forged wheels, three-piece Monoblock VI alloy wheels and one-piece Monoblock E, Q and S wheels. High-performance tires from BRABUS technology partners Pirelli and YOKOHAMA can be mounted up to size 285/25 ZR 22.
The BRABUS coilover sport suspension was developed specifically for the twelve-cylinder SUV. It is height-adjustable on front and rear axle and features ten selectable settings each for bound and rebound. To handle the extreme performance the brakes were upgraded as well and trimmed for maximum stopping power and endurance. The BRABUS high-performance brakes system features 12-piston aluminum fixed calipers and vented and grooved steel discs measuring 380 x 37 millimeters (15 x 1.5 inches) on the front axle. The rear axle stops on six-piston aluminum fixed calipers and vented and grooved 360 x 28 millimeter (14.2 x 1.1 inches) discs.
Novitec Rosso launched their California today, and this is what the press-release says: (pics in hi-res by clicking)
Tasteful refinements with aerodynamic benefits characterize the NOVITEC ROSSO design program for the sports car from Maranello. All aerodynamic-enhancement components are made from especially lightweight yet high-strength clear-coated carbon fiber.
The NOVITEC ROSSO front spoiler attaches to the production bumper and lends the sports car an even more striking face. Its sophisticated shape further reduces lift on the front axle for even better directional stability at high speeds.
The sides are upgraded with striking NOVITEC ROSSO rocker panel moldings for an even more clearly defined racing look. Black side markers add further individual highlights.
To reduce lift on the rear axle and thus achieve an optimal aerodynamic balance NOVITEC ROSSO equips the California with a newly designed diffuser for the rear apron and a spoiler lip on the trunk lid.
Three-piece NOVITEC ROSSO NF3 wheels also play a major role in the even more stunning appearance of the refined Ferrari. By choosing a staggered combination of size 9Jx21 wheels in front and size 11.5Jx22 on the rear axle NOVITEC ROSSO further emphasizes the wedge shape of the car. Technology partner Pirelli supplies high-performance tires custom-tailored to this Ferrari. The front axle features tires in size 255/30 ZR 21. In the rear tires in size 315/25 ZR 22 provide optimal traction.
NOVITEC ROSSO sport springs are custom-calibrated to match these ultra-low-profile tires, and lower the ride height by some 35 millimeters. At the same time the NOVITEC ROSSO specialists have developed an additional feature to further improve the everyday utility of the Ferrari California. The NOVITEC ROSSO hydraulic front lift system raises the front of the car by some 40 millimeters at the push of a button in the interior. That allows drivers to safely navigate parking garage ramps or speed bumps. At a second push of the button or automatically when reaching a speed of 80 km/h the front reverts to its original position.
Even faster throttle response and more power characterize the first NOVITEC ROSSO tuning stage for the Ferrari California, which increases power output of the 4.3-liter V8 engine by 40 hp / 29.4 kW to 500 hp / 368 kW. Simultaneously peak torque grows from 485 to 518 Nm at 5,300 rpm.
This injection of extra power comprises on the one hand a newly calibrated engine management system with custom mapping for injection and ignition, including a new higher redline speed of 8,300 rpm. The tuning package also includes the NOVITEC ROSSO stainless-steel high-performance exhaust system with metal catalysts and a flap actuator operated from the Manettino switch on the steering wheel.
NOVITEC ROSSO fulfills customer demands for interior customization with perfectly finished leather and Alcantara interiors. The choice of available colors and meticulously sewn upholstery designs is virtually unlimited.
I am a bit uncertain about the design. Its cool enough, but it would not hurt with more punch, boldness and ground breaking lines. After all, it is the top model from Audi.
This is the holy grail, sorry, the most wanted Porsche among many Porsche diehards. This video from Porsche Experience TV with Gordon Robertson gives you a clear clue whats all about.
More or less as I have been suspecting; the new Corvette is a delight. 500 HP in a lightweight car with decent underpinnings makes this a bargain. Just listen to Jeremy.
LOMA Performance must be regarded as the company that made the most brutal Corvette in 2009. This is what they tell about the Bat-Corvette with 794 turbo-HPs in their pressrelease.
The name of this vehicle is a show in itself: C6.BlackforceOne. It is clearly reminiscent of the legendary Boeing Air Force One of the United States president - doubtless no accident by tuner LOMA-Performance. Yet when the C6.BlackforceOne available in Stealth matt black, Eurofighter matt grey and White Storm matt white (other colours on request) comes thundering round the corner, it is soon clear that it more than deserves its name - and has far more to offer than just an exciting label...
No less than two metres from outside wheel to outside wheel, the C6.BlackforceOne is based on the "normal" Corvette (original width: 179cm) and not on a Z06 or ZR1 model. This means around ten centimetres more on each side and creates a real masculine feel. LOMA-Performance makes no effort to disguise the source of the additional width - indeed clearly and stylishly displays the carbon fibre wheel arch extensions and carbon fibre side skirts available with or without visible screws: the ultimate racing look. LOMA has installed a carbon fibre front lip and rear diffuser with integrated LED reverse light alongside the extensions, also in carbon fibre. The optional LOMA-Performance rear spoiler with a carbon fibre finish is easy to fit and detach. Circular daytime running lights are an eye-catching feature of the headlights. The front lip, rear diffuser and daytime running lights are incidentally available for all C6 Corvettes, including the Z06 and ZR1.
794 PS with bi-turbo charging The bi-turbo engine conversion is, however, exclusive to the C6.BlackforceOne and raises an incredible 794 PS from the V8 engine. 675 PS still reach the rear axle after transfer via a LOMA-Performance carbon fibre sports clutch, highly durable carbon fibre drive shafts and an overhauled gear unit; skilled hands are certainly needed at the wheel of the high-speed Corvette. It should hit 100km/h in just 3.4 seconds to furious roars from the LOMA Cup Sport Superlight exhaust unit and reach 330km/h. "Only" 330km/h? Yes, that's right, because LOMA believes in good acceleration in all situations rather final speed as a status-symbol, and has adjusted the C6.BlackforceOne accordingly. A propos adjustment: coilover suspension is fitted beneath the body to allow separate adjustment of pressure and rebound damping. Even the stabilisers are adjustable. An extra 8 centimetres' tread at the front and all of 14 centimetres at the rear ensure the C6 really hugs the road. The impression of sheer unlimited curve speed is of course also down to the Michelin Sport Cup high performance tyres in the dimensions 275/30R19 and 335/25R20 mounted on 10 x 19 and 12 x 20-inch shining black OZ Racing Ultraleggera HLT alloy wheels.
Racing technology for the road LOMA-Performance can install a carbon fibre/ceramic brake unit from Mov'it for brutal deceleration to match the brutal acceleration. This is an impressive 15.5 kilograms lighter on the front axle and 10 kilograms lighter on the rear axle than, say, ZO6 brakes. In the interior, too, the team headed by Managing Director Mario Radosavljevic have been hard at work creating a great ambience with both technical and luxury features. The door panels, for example, are finished in carbon fibre and sections of the cockpit are covered with Alcantara. C6.BlackforceOne customers can choose from 300 different types of leather. The sports steering wheel - 34 centimetres in diameter with Alcantara - is smoothed off on the underside; the refitted seats with shoulder rests are only half as thick as their series equivalents. Special foam ensures these ultimate sports seats are still comfortable and great for long journeys. All electrical functions have been retained as has full airbag functionality.
Limited Edition C6.BlackforceOne production is strictly limited to 25 vehicles. All are numbered and come with a full guarantee. LOMA provides an additional 12-month guarantee for the spectacular engine tuning. The prices for a complete vehicle start at 190,000 euros.
Even before the SLS has left the factory, the tuners are all over the supercar. Here is what Kicherer says in their pressrelease:
True to the firm‘s philosophy to only make con- clusive additions to the basic AMG form and to keep the lines of a vehicle an in essence even more sporty version of the wingdoored car was developed. Especially the aerodynamics were able to enjoy a final high class polish. In addition the developers conceived and mounted a front spoiler lip, a roof ..., a rear diffusor and larger air intakes to better cool the 6.3 litre V8 engine. All new elements developed by KICHERER are, of course, made of high class Carbon. An immediate eye-catcher on the front of the SLS is the large handcrafted frontgrill made of stainless steel, which is optionally also available in a discreet gold tone. The optics of the vertical struts are meant to remind one of the window grill on the original Pan-American vehicle. A further highlight on the sportscar are the 3 part 20 inch RS-1 lightweight wheels. The classic double spoke design harmonises perfectly with the equally classic sportscar silhouette of the KI- CHERER SLS 63 CP. At the rear of the vehicle KICHERER lets the stain- less steel exhaust with four oval endpipes melo- diously release the exhaust gases into the air. An integrated valve control gives the driver - fitting to the occasion - the choice between a sonorous and a discreet tone. Various performance enhancers for the 575 PS strong aggregate are optionally available but in- itially only on demand.
I had the pleasure of being in Munich today to see more of the new 5-series from BMW. Here is BMWs designchief Adrian van Hooydunk before and after the curtain was raised. He is very happy with the design, and told me that BMW is broadening their designexpression to make space for completely new models. The interview will be printed in Motor-magazine.
speedART is the first company to show the future of tuned Panameras at the upcoming Essen Motorshow. I think they have done a terrific job, although the interior is not my style. Click on the pics for high res. Here is the press release:
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Press release 11/09:
speedART PS9 – 650 will be released at Essen Motorshow 2009 (please visit us in hall 11, stand 203 from 27.11. – 6.12.2009)
speedART presents the PS9 – based on the new Porsche Panamera:
Power kits (just for Turbo engine): Power kits with 520, 550, 600 and 650 hp up to 890 Nm consits of bigger turbo chargers and intercoolers (just 600 + 650 hp), sport exhaust with sound switch, sport catalysts, sport air filter and ECU update. The 650 hp car accelerates in 3.5 seconds from 0 – 62 mph and the top speed is over 200 mph.
Brakes: Sport brake system with modular 380 mm discs and 6 piston brake calipers
Sound: -sport exhaust systems; optional with sound switch control -sport catalyst (OBD2-compliant) for impressive 8 cylinder sound and more power and torque -different design twin tail pipes, polished or matt black
Aerodynamic: fully CAD designed body kit consists of: -front chin spoiler for more downforce with integrated brake cooling system -engine hood air outlets -rear diffuser for enhanced down force and a very sportive design -rear bumper with air outlets on the side to give the back a racy look and to interrupt the big curves of the factory-provided back -side skirts for a wide body look -rear spoiler on rear bonnet for optimized downforce and an impressive styling
Wheels: -speedART designed three-pieces forged wheel in 22” with 23” center star, type „LSC FORGED“ in 9,5 + 11 x 22” with 265/35 and 305/25 ZR22” tyres, many colored versions available
Interior: -upholstered sport steering wheel with F1-shift paddles (available in 340 mm and 365 mm with aluminium-, wood- or carbon inlays) -real-carbon body trim in special colours -colored stiches on door panels and seats (many colors availiable) -instrument dial plates (many colors availiable) -design floor mats
Munich. The world debut of the new BMW 5 Series Sedan once again marks the epitome of aesthetic design and supreme driving pleasure in the upper midrange segment. Through its sporting and elegant looks, driving dynamics typical of the brand, outstanding efficiency as well as innovative comfort and safety features, the sixth generation of BMW’s executive express convincingly reflects the supreme standard of the world’s most successful manufacturer of premium cars throughout the entire process of development.
Driving experience: supreme dynamics and outstanding comfort. The most advanced drivetrain and suspension technologies ensure supreme sportiness and an even higher standard of motoring comfort all in one. At the same time optional Dynamic Driving Control enables the driver to set the suspension individually to his personal requirements. The new BMW 5 Series Sedan is available with Adaptive Drive encompassing Dynamic Damper Control and Dynamic Drive stability control, as well as BMW’s Integral Active Steering. The new BMW 5 Series Sedan is making its debut with one eight-cylinder and three six-cylinder petrol engines as well as two six-cylinder diesels. The range is rounded off by a four-cylinder turbodiesel with an aluminium crankcase and common-rail direct injection. Maximum output in this case of 135 kW/184 hp makes the BMW 520d fitted as standard with Auto Start Stop the new efficiency benchmark in its segment. Average fuel consumption in the EU5 test cycle is just 5.0 litres/100 kilometres (equal to 56.5 mpg imp), the CO2 emission rating is 132 g/km (provisional figures). The top-of-the-range BMW 550i comes with an eight-cylinder boasting BMW TwinPower Turbo Technology and High Precision Injection for maximum output of 300 kW/407 hp. The straight-six with BMW TwinPower Turbo, High Precision Injection and VALVETRONIC in the BMW 535i delivers maximum output of 225 kW/306 hp, while the two straight-six power units featuring High Precision Injection and lean-burn operation develop 190 kW/258 hp in the BMW 528i and, respectively, 150 kW/204 hp in the BMW 523i. Straight-six diesels with the most advanced technology give the BMW 530d maximum output of 180 kW/245 hp and the BMW 525d an equally impressive 150 kW/204 hp. Fitted with optional BMW BluePerformance technology, the BMW 530d fulfils the EU6 emission standard. And it almost goes without saying that all versions of the new BMW 5 Series Sedan comply in full with the EU5 standard in Europe.
BMW EfficientDynamics: BMW 5 Series increasing the lead. All versions of the new BMW 5 Series Sedan are available as an option with BMW’s new eight-speed automatic transmission. The BMW 550i comes as standard with BMW’s automatic transmission optimised for efficiency, just like EPS Electric Power Steering featured on all models. BMW EfficientDynamics technologies are naturally featured as standard in appropriate combinations on each model, with features such as Brake Energy Regeneration, a gearshift point indicator, active air flap control, and on-demand operation of ancillary units including a detachable a/c compressor. Intelligent lightweight construction, finally, is ensured by features such as the doors, engine compartment lid, front side panels and suspension components made of aluminium.
Innovative driver assistance systems with BMW ConnectedDrive. The driver assistance systems offered for the first time in the context of BMW ConnectedDrive include a Parking Assistant, Surround View, collision warning with application of the brakes in conjunction with Active Cruise Control plus Stop & Go, and a new Speed Limit Device. Further features also available are Lane Change Warning, Lane Departure Warning, Speed Limit Info, a Head-Up Display, BMW Night Vision with detection of individual persons, and a back-up camera.
Joint development and production together with the BMW 7 Series. The world debut of the new BMW 5 Series Sedan opens up the latest chapter in a truly impressive story of success. In the course of five model generations, overall sales of the BMW 5 Series already amount to more than 5.5 million units. Now the new model is based on a newly developed vehicle architecture also featured in the BMW 7 Series luxury sedans. Joint production of the BMW 5 Series Sedan and the BMW 7 Series at BMW Plant Dingolfing, together with the extensive use of shared components, ensures highly efficient production with a supreme standard of quality following the most demanding benchmarks in the market.
New Lightweight Battery Option for the Porsche 911 GT3, 911 GT3 RS, and Boxster Spyder
World Debut: Starter Battery in Lithium-Ion Technology
Stuttgart. Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG, Stuttgart, is the first car maker in the world to offer a starter battery in lithium-ion technology. Weighing less than 6 kg or 13 lb, the new battery is more than 10 kg or 22 lb lighter than a conventional 60 Ah lead battery.
The new lithium-ion battery will be available as of January 2010 for the 911 GT3, 911 GT 3 RS, and Boxster Spyder as an option delivered with the car, selling at a price in the German market of Euro 1,904 including 19 per cent value-added tax.
The battery is delivered as a separate unit together with the car and may subsequently be fitted as an alternative to the regular, conventional starter battery.
The cars are delivered with both batteries, therefore they are ready for use throughout the whole year. Since, while the lightweight battery offers a very high standard of everyday driving qualities, its starting capacity is limited at temperatures below 0o C or 32o F due to its specific features.
The primary reason for developing and introducing the new battery was its lower weight. In sports cars built consistently for superior driving dynamics such as the two versions of the 911 GT3 and the Boxster Spyder, less weight naturally means even greater agility and driving dynamics.
In its length and width the lithium-ion battery comes in the same dimensions as the regular battery, but is approximately 70 millimetres or 2.8” lower. The fastening points, electrical connections and voltage range are fully compatible with the respective models, allowing simple and quick replacement of the standard lead battery by the lightweight unit, for example when racing on the track.
With its nominal capacity of 18 Ah, the lithium-ion battery, through its specific features, offers a level of practical output and performance not only comparable to that of a 60 Ah lead battery, but rather even better in many cases.
On a conventional car battery only about 30 per cent of the total capacity is actually available for practical use due to the configuration of the system, while this restriction does not apply to the lithium-ion battery. On the contrary, through its characteristic structure – and, in particular, the independence of the chemical composition of the electrolytes from the charge status – a lithium-ion battery consistently offers almost 100 per cent of its capacity.
Delivery of power by the lithium-ion battery throughout its useful charge range is likewise significantly better, providing its full power, for example, when starting the engine almost independently of the current charge level.
After the engine has started, the new Porsche battery shows further benefits in the charge process, being able through its smaller internal resistance to take up more power than a conventional battery and thus re-charge more quickly.
Yet a further benefit is that a lithium-ion battery allows a significantly greater number of charging and discharging cycles, plus the two further advantages that the self-discharging effect is lower and the service life of the battery longer.
The lithium-ion battery being introduced by Porsche as the pioneer in this area is made up of wound film of carbon and iron phosphate with a ceramic film moisturised by the electrolyte serving as a separating layer in between. Compared with other types of lithium-ion batteries using a combination of manganese oxide, cobalt oxide or nickel, this lithium-iron-phosphate battery, as it is called, offers advantages when used as a starter battery. It is robust and consistently guarantees the usual voltage of 12 V in the car’s on-board network.
The lightweight battery is made up of four cells and integrated control electronics. This battery management system protects the battery from major discharge and guarantees a consistent charge level within the individual cells. Once battery voltage drops below a certain threshold, a warning signal reminds the driver to re-charge the battery either simply by driving the car through the power of the engine running or by means of a conventional battery charger.
The new lithium-ion battery will also be available for retrofitting from February 2010 on the three models mentioned from Porsche Tequipment. The sales price in Germany when retrofitted after delivery of the car is Euro 2,499 including 19 per cent value-added tax.
