A unique one-off created with the Maserati Fuoriserie team, the GranTurismo Luce is a daring interpretation of the Trident’s full-electric direction. A rocket on wheels, the GranTurismo Folgore masterly delivers up to 760 CV and can reach a speed of 100 km/h in just 2.7 seconds. All electric, all Maserati-style thrills.
Girard-Perregaux is joined by Aston Martin to premiere a special edition of the Maison’s signature Laureato model. For the first time, the timepiece will be attired in a green ceramic build and will be offered in both 42mm and 38mm case sizes in a limited quantity.
Girard-Perregaux and Aston Martin proudly present the Laureato Green Ceramic Aston Martin Edition, the first Laureato timepiece to feature a green ceramic case and bracelet. This is the latest collaboration between the prestigious Swiss maison and the British ultra-luxury marque, two institutions with a rich history of creating iconic products that stand the test of time, through excellence in design, materials and craftsmanship.
While some of the materials used for this new timepiece are ultra-modern, the essence of Girard-Perregaux’s inaugural 1975 Laureato, which translates to English as ‘Graduate’ and was named following the 1970s film, has been respected. The highly exclusive Laureato Green Ceramic Aston Martin Edition is offered in a choice of two case sizes – 42mm and 38mm – and limited to just 388 and 188 examples.
Sleek, contemporary and notably elegant, the design of the Laureato Green Ceramic Aston Martin Edition encompasses elements inspired by Aston Martin cars, from powerful engines to sleek contours and lightweight construction. It is this latter trait which encouraged Girard-Perregaux to equip this new model with skeletonised ‘baton’ type hour and minute hands, both light and functional. The watch dial is presented in a cross-hatch design, a diamond-like pattern found on Aston Martin’s original ‘AM’ logo used from 1921-1926, as well as the quilted leather upholstery found in some of the marque’s high-performance vehicles.
In the same way that the timeless design of the Laureato has attracted the admiration of enlightened commentators and watch aficionados, Aston Martin has repeatedly shown its prowess for sculpting iconic shapes that have never lost their appeal. Whether it’s a DB4 of the early 60s, a DBS V8 of the 70s or a modern-day Vantage, all models share the same attributes of elegance, luxury and performance.
Aston Martin’s iconic association with the colour green began many decades ago, when manufacturers raced in the colours of their country of origin, in this case British Racing Green. Since then, Aston Martin racing cars have competed in various shades of green before resting on the now familiar Aston Martin Racing Green, which adorns its Formula 1® cars. It was a logical conclusion for this co-branded timepiece to be dressed in green, a colour that evokes thoughts of performance and success.
Patrick Pruniaux, CEO of Girard-Perregaux, said: “From the outset, the design of the Laureato was distinctive, yet cohesive. Its styling encompassed geometric, clean-cut lines while exhibiting a slightly gentle character. Contrasting polished and satin finished surfaces, an ergonomic integrated bracelet and, of course, as always, an in-house movement… these are the essential ingredients which have made the Laureato a remarkable success. The same ingredients are much in evidence with the new Laureato Green Ceramic Aston Martin Edition, along with the addition of an interesting, highly contemporary material”.
Marek Reichman, Executive Vice President and Chief Creative Officer, of Aston Martin added: “Our goal was to conceive an advanced luxury product. Interestingly, Patrick and I spent a lot of time talking about the folklore of the Laureato and the design play between shape and proportion of its iconic bezel. When he shared GP’s exploration into the optical properties of technical ceramics, micro beads and microns, I became quite enchanted by this idea of the past becoming the future. We’re always exploring combinations of technology, colour, and materials in Aston Martin sports cars to enrich performance, functionality and owner enjoyment. Together we’ve fused these ideas and attributes to generate this cool new Aston Martin GP Laureato”.
Both Aston Martin and Girard-Perregaux operate within a world of excellence, where time-honoured skills imbue products with a distinctive character and an enduring quality, creating rare objects that confer lasting appeal. The Laureato Green Ceramic Aston Martin Edition is the latest offering from this unique collaboration, which began in 2021.
Presented in a 42mm or 38mm model, the new timepiece will be available to buy worldwide in selected Girard-Perregaux retailers from June 2023. For more information, come into the beautiful and timeless world of Girard-Perregaux.
The world’s fastest accelerating production car broke a series of speed records at India’s Natrax test facility in February. The pure-electric Battista by Automobili Pininfarina secured its place as the fastest in the world to complete the ¼ mile and ½ mile sprints, in doing so taking the title of fastest road-legal car ever on Indian soil.
With VBOX data systems in place to verify Battista’s incredible performance, the ¼ mile time of 8.55 seconds and ½ mile result of 13.38 seconds were the highlights of a flurry of remarkable results for Automobili Pininfarina’s first luxury electric car. With Autocar India’s Hormazd Sorabjee and Renuka Kirpalani joining the Italian brand’s Performance, Test and Validation Team including Development Driver Stefano Costa at the event, the aim was to showcase the exceptional performance accessible to all Battista owners and drivers. Exciting short films showcasing the achievements may be seen here: https://youtu.be/GWuZ5YruhF8
The Battista top speed test was undertaken with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres fitted. In this test, Hormazd Sorabjee secured with ease a top speed of 358.03km/h on track – eclipsing the previous top speed record in India of 332km/h, which was also held by Autocar India. Renuka Kirpalani went on to clock 357.10km/h, setting the record for the fastest Indian female driver in the world. Both these top speed records were validated by the Federation of Motor Sports Clubs of India (FMSCI), the Indian sporting body affiliated to the FIA.
With the Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2R tyre then fitted for acceleration tests, Battista registered two new production car world records for sprints over ¼ and ½ mile distances. Both sets of Michelin tyres are available to order with Battista at the point of purchase.
The Battista produces over 1,900hp and 2,340 Nm torque, with power distributed across all four wheels via four motors and through a unique, sophisticated torque vectoring system tuned by Automobili Pininfarina’s engineers at the luxury carmaker’s development centre in Italy.
Hormazd Sorabjee was joined by Autocar India colleague and experienced road tester Renuka Kirpalani for its debut Indian performance test. Hormazd said: “Nothing prepares you for the brutal acceleration and pace of the Battista. It’s like being shot from a cannon. Equally amazing is the ease with which Battista hit its top speed, within just half a straight of Natrax’s high speed track. Even at VMax, the Battista felt rock solid, relaxed, and discreet. This is the future of speed”.
A unique livery adorns the beautiful, exposed carbonfibre body of the Battista tested in India, crafted by Automobili Pininfarina’s talented Colour, Materials and Finishes Design team. The special Battista was the undisputed star of the Hyderabad E Motor Show, then making its spectacular dynamic debut at the 2023 Greenko Hyderabad E-Prix, where superstar former cricketer Sachin Tendulkar was treated to an electrifying lap of the street circuit alongside Mahindra Racing reserve driver Jehan Daruvala.
For more information, come into the beautiful world of Pininfarina.
Lionsgate recently released the first official trailer for ‘Lamborghini: The Man Behind The Legend’. ‘Based on the incredible true story’ of Automobili Lamborghini founder Ferruccio Lamborghini, the upcoming film chronicles “the long life of the iconic entrepreneur, from the manufacturing of tractors at the start of his career, to creating military vehicles during World War II, and then on to designing and building the Lamborghini cars that ultimately defined his profound legacy”.
Set against the backdrop of post-war Italy, this story mirrors the complex transformation of his homeland. From Lamborghini’s modest beginnings building tractors to the infamous rivalry he shared with Enzo Ferrari, his unparalleled genius made him a true icon in the automobile industry. However, his passions also ignited emotional turmoil in his personal life, which was full of both romance and tragedy. Told through a tightly constructed narrative style and imaginative visual design, ‘Lamborghini – The Legend is the true story of the man behind the machine’.
‘Lamborghini: The Man Behind The Legend’ stars Frank Grillo as Ferruccio Lamborghini, with Mira Sorvino, Eliana Jones, Francesca De Martini, Luca Riemma, Giorgio Cantarini, and Gabriel Byrne as his rival Enzo Ferrari. Written and directed by Bobby Moresco, a great focus is placed on Ferruccio’s rivalry with Enzo but a striking throughline throughout the project is the Lamborghini founder’s pursuit of unwavering perfection.
Watch the trailer for ‘Lamborghini: The Man Behind The Legend’ set to release in select theaters nationwide and on VOD November 18.
Lamborghini had lifted the veil off the track-focused Urus Performante during the Monterey Car Week in California. The Italian manufacturer has now followed it up with a new entry-level model of the high-performance SUV that replaces the standard Urus. Behold the 2023 Lamborghini Urus S which is slotted right below the Performante in the lineup but packs the same power. You might remember that Lamborghini did something similar for the Aventador which received the ‘S’ suffix for its mid-life update. Interestingly, it’s the first time Urus is available in two different versions ever since it debuted in 2017.
Starting with the powertrain, the Urus S is powered by the same, updated twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 twin-turbo found in the Performante version that is capable of churning out 666 horsepower and 627 pound-feet of torque. That’s a gain of 16 horsepower over the outgoing base Urus. However, what makes the ‘S’ version different from the ‘Performante’ is the lack of all the track-focused, lightweight components that helped the latter shed 104 pounds of weight.
As a result, the Urus S is two-tenths of a second slower to reach 62mph from zero. Lamborghini says the Urus S will hit 62mph in 3.5 seconds, 124mph in 12.5 seconds, and reach a top speed of 190mph (305km). Additionally, the Urus S is equipped with air suspension, while the Performante rides on steel springs.
Additionally, there’s new exterior detailing for the ‘Urus S’, that includes a revised front bumper with horizontal grille elements instead of the hexagonal design found on its predecessor, a stainless steel underbody skidplate finished in matte black, and a carbon fiber hood with matte black air intakes.
The options list gets a carbon fiber roof and the choice to upgrade the standard 21-inch wheels with 22- or 23-inch options. Lamborghini has also introduced new color and trim options for the cabin.
The interior of the Urus S expresses contemporary sophistication through its design, offering luxurious comfort with leather surfaces, trim elements in a variety of finishes and comprehensive high-tech Lamborghini equipment. In addition, the broad range of Ad Personam options allows you to appoint this super SUV to reflect your own personal sense of style.
Its state-of-the-art navigation, comfort, safety and entertainment features are the elements of both onboard and remote connectivity that make driving your Urus S an unparalleled experience.
You can order yours now. Lamborghini’s new Urus S model has a starting selling price of $189,789 USD. For more information, come into the beautiful world of Lamborghini.
Aston Martin proud to introduce the new V12 Vantage Roadster – a uniquely exciting and ultra-exclusive limited production model which combines the thrilling performance of the most powerful Aston Martin Vantage ever made with the freedom and sensory stimulation of roof-down driving.
No surprise! The Aston Martin V12 Vantage is now also available as a convertible. Shortly after debuting its ultra-rare DBR22, Aston Martin has now followed up with the unveiling of a new Vantage Roadster that packs the automaker’s 5.2-liter twin-turbo V12 engine.
With production strictly limited to just 249 customer examples globally, with all examples sold ahead of release, the V12 Vantage Roadster boasts a compelling combination of dramatic widebody design, ground-hugging wide-track suspension and – for the first time in a Vantage Roadster – the mighty 5.2-litre Twin-Turbo V12 engine. With searing straight-line speed and the unfiltered howl of Aston Martin’s sonorous 700PS 12-cylinder engine, the V12 Vantage Roadster elevates the open-top driving experience to a scintillating new level.
Key to this exhilarating driving experience is the powerhouse of the engine. Developing 700PS at 6500 rpm and 753Nm of torque at 5,500 rpm, the quad-cam 60-deg 5.2-litre V12 is a true force of nature. With a power-to-weight ratio of 372PS-per-ton and an endlessly impressive delivery which combines effortless in-gear response with epic acceleration, every squeeze of the V12 Vantage Roadster’s throttle leads to an unforgettable adrenaline rush.
We have worked extremely hard to ensure the V12 Vantage Roadster possesses the same potency and dynamism that characterises the V12 Vantage, while surpassing it in terms of raw sensory excitement that you only achieve with roof down driving. With more power and torque than any Vantage Roadster before it, a wide-track chassis with precisely tuned suspension calibration, and up to ten times the downforce of the series production Vantage Roadster, this is a breathtaking machine created for our most enthusiastic customers.
Roberto Fedeli, Aston Martin Chief Technical Officer
Accelerating from rest to 60mph in just 3.5sec and with a top speed of 200mph the V12 Vantage Roadster occupies the very highest echelon of open-top sportscar performance. With a ZF 8-speed automatic transmission and mechanical Limited-Slip Differential (LSD) mounted at the rear, the car possesses the purity and balance of a front-mid-engined rear-wheel drive layout. An optimised transmission calibration minimises shift speeds and maximises driver interaction, while adaptive software in the transmission’s control system monitors operating conditions and driver demands to enhance the driver’s feeling of response and control.
Sharing the same suspension hardware as the V12 Vantage, but featuring a bespoke tune for its adaptive dampers, the V12 Vantage Roadster’s dynamics have been honed to the keenest possible edge. The steering calibration mirrors that found in the V12 Vantage, to offer maximum steering feel and quick response, improvements which bring the car alive through corners and can be felt with every steering input.
Like the V12 Vantage, the V12 Vantage Roadster features powerful Carbon Ceramic Brakes (CCB) as standard. Measuring 410mm x 38mm the front discs are gripped by 6-piston calipers, while the 360mm x 32mm rear discs are paired with 4-piston calipers. With much increased stopping power and tremendous resistance to brake fade at high temperatures, the CCB technology also makes a considerable 23kg of unsprung weight saving compared to steel brakes, benefitting steering response and ride quality.
In order to further reduce overall mass the V12 Vantage Roadster’s front bumper, clamshell bonnet, front fenders and side sills are made from carbon fibre, with the rear bumper and deck lid made from weight-saving composite material. Additional savings have been made with the adoption of a lightweight battery and a special centre-mounted twin-exit exhaust system fabricated from lightweight 1mm stainless steel. Tuned to ensure the V12 Vantage Roadster has a rousing voice to match its looks, this new system weighs 7.2kg less than the Vantage Roadster’s exhaust.
It’s an indication of the V12 Vantage Roadster’s monstrous performance that its dramatic form is driven by function. For example, the formidable physique of the widebody design is necessary to accommodate the widetrack suspension, which is 40mm wider than Vantage. The new front bumper design, complete with full width front splitter generates additional downforce and aerodynamic balance, while increased cooling is achieved by the reshaped front grille, which is 25% larger, and the ‘horse shoe’ engine vent in the bonnet.
Aerodynamic performance also informs the new sculpted single-piece sills and rear bumper, which comes complete with integrated diffuser – the effectiveness of which has been improved by the routing of the centre mounted, twin tailpipe, exhaust system. In contrast to the V12 Vantage, the V12 Vantage Roadster comes without the dramatic rear wing as standard, though it can be specified as an option. Those who choose the more understated look can do so in the knowledge that aerodynamic balance is maintained thanks to detailed management of underbody airflow.
Final visual touches come in the form of impressive 21in alloy wheels, which are offered in two finishes, satin black or satin black diamond turned. An optional lightweight forged wheel option is also available in both satin black and satin black diamond turned, which saves a further 8kg of unsprung mass. Michelin Pilot 4S high performance tyres – 275/35 R21 front and 315/30 R21 at the rear – are standard fitment on all rims.
As flagship of the Vantage range, the V12 Roadster is fitted with Sports Plus Seats trimmed in full semi-aniline leather and featuring ‘Wings’ quilt and perforation pattern as standard. A carbon fibre performance seat with exposed twill carbon fibre shell and manual 6-way adjustment can be had as an option for those looking for the ultimate in dynamic design and maximum support for high performance driving, also saving 7.3kg without skimping on occupant comfort.
Aston Martin V12 Vantage Roadster customers can further boost the exclusivity of their car by engaging the services of the marque’s bespoke personalisation service, Q by Aston Martin, for everything from striking exterior graphics and liveries to woven leather. With extensive use of exposed carbon fibre in its design, the V12 Vantage Roadster also lends itself perfectly to Q by Aston Martin: Commission’s range of tinted lacquers, which change appearance under different lighting conditions to make a spectacular feature of the hand-laid carbon fibre panels.
From a design perspective, V12 Vantage Roadster is a combination of living sculpture and physiology, such as the functions of an elite runner or thoroughbred racehorse. On one hand, much like the way their systems are developed to handle the stresses of peak performance and trained to work together to increase efficiency and power using oxygen, V12 Vantage Roadster was designed to maximize the benefits of airflow into, throughout and around the car. And on the other, for our Drivers, we created this explicit open-top sports car for those craving excitement and drama. The platform presented us with a design opportunity to make a contemporary visual statement of intent. The result is a living, breathing, driving sculpture with a level of control that sits at the fingertips.
Marek Reichman, Aston Martin Chief Creative Officer
Production of the V12 Vantage Roadster is due to commence in Q3 of 2022, with first deliveries scheduled to begin during Q4 2022. Come into the beautiful world of Aston Martin.
German carmaker Porsche continues to add expand its high-performance and race-ready concepts. Porsche has officially launched the road-legal high performing race-ready sports car, the new 911 GT3 RS.
With 518 horsepower and top aerodynamic elements, the 2023 road-legal racer has proved to be a force to be reckoned with, redefining the meaning of power amongst its turbocharged competition. By manipulating the airflow outside of the engine, engineers have created a more aggressive aerodynamic 911 GT3 RS that adjusts performance based on how efficiently the body moves through the environment around it.
The road-legal high-performance sports car takes full advantage of technology and concepts from motorsport (911 GT3 RS: Fuel consumption* combined (WLTP) 13.4 l/100 km, CO₂ emissions* combined (WLTP) 305 g/km, Fuel consumption* combined (NEDC) 12.7 l/100 km, CO₂ emissions* combined (NEDC) 289 g/km). Even beyond the high-revving naturally aspirated engine with racing DNA and intelligent lightweight construction, it is, above all, the cooling and aerodynamic systems of the 911 GT3 RS that connect it most directly with its motorsport brother, the 911 GT3 R.
Central-radiator concept inspired by motorsport – the foundation for active aerodynamics
The basis for a significant performance boost is the concept of a central radiator – an idea that was first used in the Le Mans class-winning 911 RSR and subsequently in the 911 GT3 R. Instead of the three-radiator layout seen in previous cars, the new 911 GT3 RS relies on a large, angled centre radiator in the car’s nose, positioned where the luggage compartment is located on other 911 models. This has made it possible to use the space freed up on the sides to integrate active aerodynamic elements.
Continuously adjustable wing elements in the front and on the two-part rear wing, in combination with a number of other aerodynamic measures, provide 409 kg of total downforce at 200 km/h. This means that the new 911 GT3 RS generates twice as much downforce as its 991.2-generation predecessor and three times as much as a current 911 GT3. At 285 km/h, total downforce is 860 kg.
A drag reduction system (DRS) is fitted in a production Porsche for the first time. To achieve low drag and higher speeds on straight sections of the track, the DRS allows the wings to be flattened out at the push of a button, within a specific operating range. The airbrake function is activated during emergency braking at high speeds: the wing elements at the front and rear are set to maximum, creating an aerodynamic deceleration effect that significantly supports the wheel brakes.
The look of the new 911 GT3 RS is characterised by the large number of functional aerodynamic elements. The most prominent feature of the GT sports car is the swan-neck-supported rear wing, which is significantly larger in all dimensions. The rear wing consists of a fixed main wing and an upper, hydraulically adjustable wing element.
For the first time on a Porsche production vehicle, the upper edge of the rear wing is higher than the car’s roof. In addition, the front end of the 911 GT3 RS no longer has a front spoiler, but instead features a front splitter that divides the air flowing over and underneath. Sideblades accurately direct air outwards. Front wheel arch ventilation is provided via louvred openings in the front wings.
Inlets behind the front wheels, in the style of the iconic Le Mans-winning 911 GT1, reduce the dynamic pressure in the wheel arches. Sideblades behind the intake ensure that the air is directed to the side of the vehicle. Air from the centrally positioned radiator flows out via large nostrils on the front lid. Fins on the roof direct the air outwards, ensuring cooler intake temperatures in the rear.
In the new 911 GT3 RS, the openings in the rear side panel are used exclusively to improve aerodynamics and not to draw in process air. The rear wheel arch also features an intake and a sideblade for optimised airflow. The rear diffuser comes from the 911 GT3 and has been slightly adapted.
Track suspension that can be adjusted from the cockpit
Even the suspension comes in for aerodynamic attention. Because the wheel arches of the new 911 GT3 RS are subject to powerful airflows, the components of the double-wishbone front axle are designed with teardrop-shaped profiles. These aerodynamically efficient links increase downforce on the front axle by around 40 kg at top speed and are otherwise only used in high-end motorsport applications. Because of the wider track (29 millimetres wider than the 911 GT3), the double-wishbone front axle links are also correspondingly longer.
To ensure that the downforce balance between the front and rear axles is maintained even when braking from high speeds, the suspension engineers have significantly reduced pitching under braking. On the new 911 GT3 RS, the front ball joint of the lower trailing arm has been set lower on the front axle. The multi-link rear axle has also been adjusted, with modified spring rates. The driver assistance systems and rear-axle steering also have an even more dynamic set-up here.
The 911 GT3 RS offers three driving modes: Normal, Sport and Track. In Track mode, the basic settings can be individually adjusted. Among other settings, the rebound and compression damping of the front and rear axles can be adjusted separately and in several stages. The rear differential can also be adjusted via rotary controls on the steering wheel. This is done quickly and intuitively with an operating and display concept also borrowed from motorsport.
Four individual rotary controls and a button for the Drag Reduction System (DRS) are located on the steering wheel. These rotary controls are clearly displayed via graphics in the instrument cluster during the adjustment process. The 911 GT3 RS also features the track screen already familiar from the 911 GT3. At the touch of a button, the driver can reduce the digital displays on the two seven-inch side displays to essential information only. The gearshift indicators to the left and right of the analogue tachometer have also been taken from the GT3.
High-revving four liter six-cylinder boxer engine
The 4.0-litre high-revving naturally aspirated engine has been further optimised compared with the 911 GT3. The increase in power to 386 kW (525 PS) is achieved primarily via new camshafts with modified cam profiles. The single-throttle intake system and the rigid valve drive are derived from motorsport.
The seven-speed Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) has a shorter overall gear ratio than the 911 GT3. Air intakes on the underbody ensure that the transmission can withstand even extreme loads during frequent use on track. The 911 GT3 RS accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 3.2 seconds and reaches a top speed of 296 km/h in seventh gear.
Aluminium monobloc fixed-calliper brakes with six pistons each and brake discs with a diameter of 408 mm are used on the front axle. Compared with the 911 GT3, the piston diameters have been increased from 30 to 32 mm. In addition, the thickness of the discs has been increased from 34 to 36 mm. The rear axle continues to be fitted with 380-mm brake discs and four-piston fixed-calliper brakes.
The optionally available Porsche Ceramic Composite Brake (PCCB) has 410-mm discs on the front axle and 390-mm discs on the rear axle. The new 911 GT3 RS comes standard with forged light-alloy centre-lock wheels. Road-legal sports tyres measuring 275/35 R 20 at the front and 335/30 R21 at the rear ensure a high level of mechanical grip.
Lightweight construction all the way
Intelligent lightweight construction has been a basic principle of all RS models ever since the legendary 911 Carrera RS 2.7. Thanks to an array of lightweight construction measures such as the extensive use of CFRP, the 911 GT3 RS weighs in at only 1,450 kg (kerb weight according to DIN) despite many larger components. The doors, front wings, roof and front lid, for example, are made from CFRP. Lightweight CFRP is also used in the interior, for example in the standard full bucket seats.
Available with Clubsport and Weissach packages
When it comes to its interior, the new GT sports car is finished in typical RS style: black leather, Racetex and carbon-weave finish characterise the purist, sporting ambience. The 911 GT3 RS is available with the Clubsport package at no extra cost. This includes a steel rollover bar, a hand-held fire extinguisher and six-point seat belts for the driver.
Intelligent lightweight construction has been a basic principle of all RS models ever since the legendary 911 Carrera RS 2.7. Thanks to an array of lightweight construction measures such as the extensive use of CFRP, the 911 GT3 RS weighs in at only 1,450 kg (kerb weight according to DIN) despite many larger components. The doors, front wings, roof and front lid, for example, are made from CFRP. Lightweight CFRP is also used in the interior, for example in the standard full bucket seats.
Available with Clubsport and Weissach packages
The Weissach package, which is available at extra cost, involves considerably more. The front lid, roof, parts of the rear wing and the upper shell of the exterior mirrors feature a carbon-weave finish. The front and rear anti-roll bars, the rear coupling rods and the shear panel on the rear axle are made of CFRP and contribute to a further enhancement of the driving dynamics. The rollover bar, constructed for the first time from CFRP, saves around six kilograms compared with the steel version.
Another highlight of the Weissach package is the PDK shift paddles with motorsport-derived magnet technology. This makes gear changes even more dynamic thanks to a more precise pressure point and a clearly perceptible click. Optionally available with the Weissach package are magnesium forged wheels, which save another eight kilograms.
Exclusive Porsche Design Chronograph
Inspired by the motorsport mindset – where maximum precision is paramount – Porsche’s own watchmaking operation in Solothurn, Switzerland, has developed the 911 GT3 RS chronograph. This mechanical watch is reserved for owners of the car. It is based on a glass-bead blasted case, made from either natural or black titanium, and with a screw-down crown. Inside the watch is the mechanical Porsche Design chronograph calibre WERK 01.200, which has been COSC-certified for its high accuracy.
Its flyback function allows the wearer to start, stop and reset the second hand with a single action. The chronograph pushers, which feature ‘Start/Stop’ and ‘Next Lap’ laser engravings, reveal that this chronograph is not just about telling the time. In addition to innovations, such as the pulsometer scale on the bezel, many design features and materials from the GT3 RS are also found.
The new 911 GT3 RS is now available for order and starts at €229,517 (Germany) or approximately $233,525 USD. For more information on the specs of the new road-ready racer, come into the beautiful world of Porsche.
Monterey Car Week is upon us, and we already have a surprise announcement from Bugatti. The French brand took to social media Monday morning with a simple-yet-tantalizing teaser video promising to ‘unlock an icon’ on Friday at The Quail.
As all 500 Bugatti Chirons an 40 Bolides sold out at the beginning of this year, the high-performance automaker now teases a radically different hypercar in a short video clip captioned ‘unlock an icon’. The announcement comes as Aston Martin recently revealed its all-new DBR22 Speedster and Bentley looks to offer a first look at its limited-run Mulliner Batur this weekend.
Take a look for the new Bugatti model to arrive on August 19 at the Quail.
The teaser video doesn’t shed much light on the mystery, though the four horizontally dashed headlights and surrounding lines deviate significantly from the Chiron, suggesting something new altogether. While vaguely resembling more of the Divo, it’s still unclear whether the supercar will be a special edition model, concept, or other. Bugatti recently merged with EV company Rimac Automobili in late 2021 for Bugatti Rimac, so their first jointly developed project could potentially be arriving soon.
Come into the beautiful world of Bugatti.
Aston Martin has chosen the 2022 Monterey Car Week to unveil the spectacular DBR22 for the first time: A V12-engined two-seater coach-built design concept, celebrating the marque’s extraordinary bloodline of open-cockpit sports racers.
The creation of the DBR22 design concept, unveiled in California, is the latest in a long line of extraordinary projects expertly handled by in-house bespoke division, Q by Aston Martin, which this year celebrates a decade of building exclusive cars for the world’s most discerning customers. Iconic one-off commissions such as Aston Martin Victor, and low volume specials such as Vulcan – limited to 24 examples worldwide, and Vantage V600 – limited to just 14, are truly magnificent examples of these collaborations. It seems only fitting then, that the DBR22 design concept should also form the basis of a production reality example for an ultra-exclusive number of Q by Aston Martin customers.
By mating the classic art of coachbuilding with advanced materials and cutting-edge manufacturing technologies, DBR22 is a perfect blend of design purity, engineering precision, heart-pounding performance and true passion. A perfect celebration of Q by Aston Martin and its limitless potential. All underlined by the knowledge it is one of the rarest Aston Martins in the marque’s rich 109-year history.
With classic proportions and immaculate, muscular curves, DBR22 unashamedly speaks of tradition – specifically Aston Martin’s lifelong lineage of world-beating two-seater open-cockpit sportscars such as the DBR1 and DB3S – but expresses it with a dynamic new take on this compelling theme.
DB3S represents an important piece of Aston Martin’s competition history. Introduced in 1953, Frank Feeley’s alloy DB3S body became known for its curves and aerodynamic efficiency, establishing Aston Martin as a serious Le Mans contender and scoring some impressive results along the way. DBR1, known as the ultimate Aston Martin sportscar, took Feeleys design language a stage further and became one of the most important, influential Aston Martins of all time – winning a number of notable races, the most famous of course being Le Mans in 1959, driven by Carroll Shelby and Roy Salvadori, and taking the Aston Martin team onto the ultimate victory: winning the World Sports Car Championship in the same year (‘59.)
The DBR22 design concept showcases a completely new body from the designers at Aston Martin. Its exceptional coach-built form is created from a minimal number of body panels to create a more sculpted, muscular presence. The result: a smooth and effortless blend of exceptional drama and elegance, with several unique design features to compliment.
A particularly noteworthy feature is the entirely new front grille which incorporates a unique carbon fibre design in place of the usual veins seen on series production Aston Martins. This design takes inspiration directly from the DBR1 and DB3S, giving a unique identity; one which clearly draws from Aston Martin’s heritage but uses this inspiration to create a truly contemporary design.
The bonnet features a dramatic horseshoe vent, recessed to aid airflow from the 5.2-litre V12 Twin-Turbo engine that sits beneath it. This long, unbroken bonnet line draws your eye back towards the cockpit, over the lowline wind deflector and delicate mirrors, which are mounted to the tops of the doors on slender, wind-cheating carbon fibre arms.
Sitting perfectly within the wheel arches is a set of all-new 21in alloy wheels. Featuring a unique 14-spoke design created especially for the DBR22, these lightweight wheels feature a motorsport-derived centre-lock hub, which is also available to spec from an extensive colour pallet.
We set our design systems to ‘hyper-drive’, pushing the exploration of formalism further and endeavouring to express a future in the here today. Where could we go with the surfaces, proportion and form. Combining this approach with advanced process, technology, and materials, we’ve effectively modernised our racing bloodline and created a new pedigree. DBR22 is a hot-blooded, purebred Aston Martin sports car full of speed, agility and spirit, and a machine that we think will be the basis of many of tomorrow’s icons.
Marek Reichman, Aston Martin Chief Creative Officer
The DBR22 design concept also showcases an entirely bespoke paint colour, developed specifically for the occasion using ‘Paint to Sample’ – an exclusive option available through Q by Aston Martin, demonstrating again the vast design possibilities attainable through the marques bespoke service.
The DBR22’s cockpit continues the fusion of classic and contemporary approaches with many unique components and an extensive use of both leather and exposed carbon fibre. With architecture defined by the all-new dashboard and sleek infotainment displays, it sets the tone for a clean, uncluttered environment.
Though taking inspiration from Aston Martin’s world-beating competition cars, the DBR22 is no bare-bones racer inside. Supple aromatic hides swathe the contemporary dashboard, the carbon fibre performance seats and extend over the tops of the doors to create an inviting hint of the interior.
Rising from behind the seats are twin nacelles which smooth the airflow behind the driver and passenger’s heads. At the rear, DBR22 design concept has an unmistakable horizontal light graphic courtesy of the slim, full-width light bar made specially for this application. Beneath it sits a perforated panel to allow hot air to exit the tail. This beautifully sculptural piece is yet another unique highlight of the DBR22 intriguing design. Together with the smoothly integrated diffuser and pair of large diameter exhaust tailpipes, the DBR22 has incredible road presence, perfectly capturing the raw emotion of the driving experience.
With an extensive options palette available through the celebrated bespoke service, Q by Aston Martin offers customers of all Aston Martin models the chance to create something completely unique. As well as paint colours and finishes, bespoke graphics through to tinted carbons and bespoke materials on both the interior and exterior, every Q by Aston Martin car can push the limits of design and desire and is completely tailored to the customer.
Thanks to an immensely potent 5.2-litre V12 Twin-Turbo powertrain the DBR22 backs-up its extraordinary looks with truly breath-taking performance; peak outputs of 715PS and 753Nm providing sufficient propulsion to accelerate the DBR22 from a standstill to 60mph in just 3.4sec and on to a top speed of 198mph/319kmh. With nothing but the slipstream between the driver and this epic engine’s unforgettable twelve-cylinder howl, the DBR22 promises to be an intense sensory stimulation.
Dynamically the DBR22 targets true driver connection, with a chassis honed to deliver precision, agility and tactility in equal measure. Unique calibration of the engine and 8-speed paddle-shift automatic transmission uses torque shaping to give the DBR22 a manner and delivery unlike any other model. A pinned steering column brings greater accuracy but also provides more detailed feedback so the driver can build a more accurate picture of available grip.
Attention has also been paid to the DBR22’s chassis structure. Unique front and rear shear panels further increase tortional rigidity, with a bespoke calibration for the adaptive dampers providing precision and pliancy for a blend of body control and ride refinement that will make the DBR22 an absolute pleasure to drive – on road or racetrack.
Technology is pivotal in the construction of DBR22, with extensive use of carbon fibre throughout, and the use of 3D printing for the manufacture of a structural component. As such DBR22 showcases Aston Martin’s unique capabilities, with world-class design combined with an agile, intelligent approach to engineering and production. For a car that was designed to celebrate the ultimate bespoke customisation service, the engineering developments mean DBR22 truly has the dynamic theatre to match, ensuring the drive is just as addictive as its looks.
Roberto Fedeli, Aston Martin Chief Technical Officer
The DBR22 also features a 3D printed rear subframe – the first time Aston Martin has introduced such a method. The component is made from multiple 3D printed parts printed from aluminium, which are then bonded to form the finished subframe. The advantages are clear, with a significant weight saving and no reduction in stiffness, plus the ability to make special parts for ultra-low volume models, where required.
Monterey Car Week kicks off later this week, and it’s looking like it’ll be a doozy. Acura, Bentley, and others have big reveals planned, and those are the debuts we know about. Pebble Beach always delivers a few big surprises, too, so keep an eye out. The Aston Martin DBR22 design concept will be displayed at Pebble Beachthe Concours d’Elegance from August 19th through August 21st.
Come into the beautiful world of Aston Martin.
Ares Modena landed in the beautiful Sardinia. For the third consecutive year, their exclusive summer studio at the Waterfront Costa Smeralda has officially opened its doors. They can’t wait to show you their masterpieces and experience many emotions along the Sardinian coast!
For more information, come into the beautiful world of Ares.
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Yakymour 