All posts by Francis Mitterrand

2023 Jaguar F-Type 75 Special Edition

Before ending the long-running era of its conventionally powered sports cars, Jaguar has decided to introduce special editions of the F-Type 75 and F-Type R 75.

Both Jaguar models will be offered in Giola metallic green. They will be equipped with front fender badges depicting the “unmistakable silhouette of the F-Type”, LED lights, stainless steel door sill plates and a set of 20-inch wheels in gloss black, with carbon-ceramic brakes and yellow brake calipers (optional).

The interior of both vehicles is equipped with the Black Pack package, which includes Windsor leather-trimmed seats and a suede-covered headliner. In front of the driver is a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster.

When it comes to the powertrain, the power of both models will vary depending on the market, and will be offered in three options. The first is a turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder Ingenum engine with 298 hp (219 kW) and RWD, the second option is a supercharged 5.0L V8 engine with 444 hp (327 kW) and RWD or AWD. The third, most powerful option is a supercharged V8 engine with 567 hp (417 kW) and (700 Nm) of torque, and AWD. It reaches 62 mph in less than 4 seconds with a top speed of 186 mph (300 km/h). All engines are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.

The order book is open, and the first deliveries can be expected at the beginning of next year.

Source: Jaguar

Ferrari SF90 Spider with 1,109 hp

The first Ferrari model with PHEV technology, the Ferrari SF90 Spider, is one of the most powerful cars of the Italian manufacturer. Now, thanks to the German tuner Novitec, it has become a super powerful beast.

Under the hood is a 4.0L V8 engine combined with three electric motors delivering a total of 1,109 hp (816 kW) and 590 lb-ft (800 Nm) of torque. Compared to the standard SF90 Spider, the power has been increased by an additional 109 hp, which is enough to push the car to 62 mph in 2.4 seconds with a maximum speed of 211 mph (340 km/h). It is mounted on 21-inch Vossen rims wrapped in 255/30 (front) and 325/25 (rear) tires.

The car received a new carbon aerodynamic body kit that includes a new central spoiler with detachable side parts on the front fascia, a rear spoiler, a new rear diffuser, front fenders, mirror upper part, triangle cover side window, a set of sports springs, a new exhaust system (with and without electronic sound management system with active valve control), 112 mm diameter tailpipes with carbon details and visual enhancements (optional). All this makes the SF90 Spider more aggressive, but also creates more downforce for better stability and handling.

When it comes to the interior, Novitec offers customers a wide selection of Alcantara in any color.

Source: Novitec

Porsche’s new aerodynamic solutions

Strict regulations on CO2 emissions are forcing manufacturers to electrify cars. This significantly affects the consumption of the vehicle, which has a great impact on the owner’s wallet, but also limits the vehicle’s range. However, aerodynamics also affects consumption, so manufacturers and owners use different aerodynamic solutions that are sometimes a bit strange. Porsche is the leader in one of them.

Researchers at the University of Stuttgart are working on a vibrating car, using a number of methods to improve the vehicle’s aerodynamics. “We are investigating whether it is possible to reduce the value of the Cd coefficient at certain points of the car body by systematically introducing vibrations. If you introduce a pulse into the air flow around the car with a speaker, it can affect its separation behavior when energized,” said Professor Andreas Wagner, head of the automotive engineering program at the university.

There are numerous methods by which aerodynamics can be favorably influenced. “A good Cd value can be achieved in different ways. If, for example, you want to optimize the rear end, you can change the height of the tailgate and the diffuser in the chassis,” says Marcel Straub, lead engineer for aerodynamics and thermal processes at Porsche Engineering.

Porsche believes that the generated sound and vibrations should not damage the construction of the vehicle, so it is necessary to prevent the sound from affecting the comfort of the passengers while driving. Until this solution becomes a reality, Porsche will continue to work on active aerodynamic elements.

Source: Porsche