McLaren Automotive looks to the future with breath-taking Ultimate Vision Gran Turismo car in partnership with PlayStation 4 video game Gran Turismo Sport

McLaren Automotive looks to the future with breath-taking Ultimate Vision Gran Turismo car in partnership with PlayStation 4 video game Gran Turismo Sport

McLaren Automotive looks to the future with breath-taking Ultimate Vision Gran Turismo car in partnership with PlayStation 4 video game Gran Turismo Sport

An extreme McLaren Gran Turismo racing car is today confirmed as an exclusive choice for gamers in the hugely anticipated PlayStation 4 title, Gran Turismo Sport, which will be available starting October 17, 2017.

The McLaren Ultimate Vision Gran Turismo was designed in response to a call from game creator, Kazunori Yamauchi, for vehicle manufacturers to design ‘visionary GT cars’ to compete in Gran Turismo Sport. While not a prototype for any future McLaren model, the Ultimate Vision Gran Turismo showcases the kind of car that McLaren could produce beyond 2030. Players will be able to choose from three liveries: Performance, Ulterior and Noir.

Designing for the virtual world and unburdened by production car constraints, the team that created the McLaren Ultimate Vision Gran Turismo pushed the boundaries of McLaren design well beyond current realities, while remaining true to inherent principles.

The design form of the McLaren Ultimate Vision Gran Turismo follows its function, meaning every single line and detail has a purpose. Just like McLaren’s road cars, the teardrop cabin and extensive glazing ensure exceptional visibility. And being single-minded in putting the driver first, meant an innovative approach to seating – the driver is positioned not just forward and centrally in the chassis, but lying on their front, with the rest of the car ‘shrink wrapped’ around them.

“We wanted to break new ground and to innovate and the McLaren Ultimate Vision Gran Turismo does exactly that. It puts the driver absolutely at the centre of the action, delivering a sensory overload with incredible sound and awe-inspiring acceleration. From the game player’s point of view, the driving experience in this car will be like nothing else: the amazing glass cockpit and the motorcycle-like driving position – with your head far forward, almost right above the front axle – combine to allow you to see exactly where the apex of the corner is so you can shave vital milliseconds off each lap.More than anything though, the McLaren Ultimate Vision Gran Turismo is a stunning looking car. The design form communicates exactly what the car’s mission is and what its intentions are: it’s the ultimate expression of the McLaren design pillars and principles we have already established, futured into the 2030s.” Rob Melville, Design Director, McLaren Automotive

McLaren Automotive looks to the future with breath-taking Ultimate Vision Gran Turismo car in partnership with PlayStation 4 video game Gran Turismo Sport

McLaren pioneered the use of carbon fibre in Formula 1 and the strong, yet lightweight material forms the chassis of all McLaren road cars. Featured extensively in the upper structure and body of the McLaren Ultimate Vision Gran Turismo as well as in the chassis, carbon fibre helps to deliver a virtual kerb weight of just 1,000 kg.

The McLaren Ultimate Vision Gran Turismo features ultra-advanced active aerodynamic technology. Called Integrated Active Aero, it works by opening tiny aperture covers around air inlets on key surfaces during cornering to create drag and generate downforce, rather than moving the surfaces altogether. This gives the handling benefits of active aerodynamics with a reduced number of moving parts that benefits both complexity and weight. Centrally mounted carbon-ceramic disc brakes reduce unsprung mass and the driver is also able to monitor brake temperatures during racing.

Power comes from a break-through hybrid drivetrain. A twin-turbo, 4.0-litre McLaren V8 engine drives the rear wheels, while high output electric motors are housed in each of the front wheel ‘pods.’ Game players will be able to call upon maximum power of 1,150 PS, with 1,275 NM of torque available instantly from launch, thanks to the electric propulsion and all-wheel traction. Capturing the essence of the spine-tingling sound experienced when driving a McLaren at full throttle was a critical part of the McLaren Ultimate Vision Gran Turismo brief and as such, the exhaust system and hybrid drive work together to generate a unique thrill for the ears, even in the cabin.

McLaren Automotive looks to the future with breath-taking Ultimate Vision Gran Turismo car in partnership with PlayStation 4 video game Gran Turismo Sport

“I created the Vision Gran Turismo project to give car manufacturers the opportunity to design something that has all of the characteristics of their brand, and will live on as a playable vehicle in Gran Turismo. Many of the cars have become legendary in their own right, continuing to shine for years and attracting players from different eras. For me, a car needs to be an extension of the driver; I am focused not just on the appearance, but on the handling, the sound of the engine, and the feeling you get when you are racing. So, it was an honour to work with McLaren to bring the Ultimate Vision Gran Turismo to life, and to put such a car on the circuits of Gran Turismo Sport for players to enjoy driving at the limit.” Kazunori Yamauchi, Gran Turismo creator, President of Polyphony Digital Inc.

Gran Turismo Sport, which will be available starting October 17 of this year, is the latest release in the world-renowned Gran Turismo series for the Sony PlayStation. Gran Turismo Sport gives players the opportunity to choose their preferred car from a range of production and concept vehicles and compete at one of 17 locations, including the Nürburgring 24 Hour circuit, Brands Hatch and other world-class circuits. Designed exclusively for the game, the McLaren Ultimate Vision Gran Turismo will join real-life McLaren models such as the McLaren 650S Coupe and 650S GT3.

courtesy: media.mclarenautomotive.com

Fascinating aesthetics, sporty elegance and thrilling dynamic performance: BMW M Performance Parts for the new BMW 6 Series Gran Turismo.

BMW M Performance Parts for the new BMW 6 Series Gran Turismo

BMW M Performance Parts for the new BMW 6 Series Gran Turismo

The new BMW 6 Series Gran Turismo is fascinatingly elegant, highly versatile and outstandingly dynamic to drive. In order to demonstrate the sporty character of the model, the model-specific BMW M Performance Parts will already be available at market launch in November 2017. The customised and motor racing inspired retrofit parts for drive, suspension, exterior and cockpit enhance dynamic driving even further and give the new BMW 6 Series Gran Turismo an individual and powerfully expressive appearance.

The well-established racing expertise of BMW M GmbH, which was made use of in developing the parts, is reflected in the authentic style of the BMW M Performance Parts range. All components are fully subject to the high BMW Group standards in terms of material selection, design and quality of workmanship. Retrofitting these items has no impact whatsoever on the warranty terms as applicable to the vehicle in question.

The BMW M Performance exhaust silencer system gives the new BMW 6 Series Gran Turismo a truly impressive acoustic and visual dimension. It gives the rear a striking look and ensures a sporty sound which is, however, also suitable for long-distance travel. The silencer is made of stainless steel and was especially developed for the petrol engine models BMW 630i Gran Turismo (combined fuel consumption: 6.6 – 6.2 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 152 – 142 g/km), BMW 640i Gran Turismo (combined fuel consumption: 7.4 – 7.0 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 169 – 159 g/km), BMW 640i xDrive Gran Turismo (combined fuel consumption: 8.2 – 7.7 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 187 – 177 g/km). Depending on engine type and equipment, it comes with either round or trapezoid tailpipe trims in chrome or carbon fibre. The round tailpipes feature an engraved M logo and the trapezoid tailpipes the M Performance inscription.

Driving dynamics and visual appeal of the new BMW 6 Series Gran Turismo both profit from the 21 inch BMW M Performance light alloy wheels. They are manufactured using weight-saving forging methods and feature a two-level double-spoke design in bi-colour composition. The high-gloss paintwork is combined with burnished surfaces for the outer spoke level and the wheel rim. The exclusively designed wheels have mixed tyres in the sizes 245/35 R21 on the front axle and 275/30 R21 on the rear axle, complete with emergency running properties. The sport braking system, which is also available for the new BMW 6 Series Gran Turismo, optimises both the dynamic driving experience as well as the car’s visual impact. Even when driven in extremely dynamic fashion, the new BMW 6 Series Gran Turismo achieves constant braking performance by means of inner vented, perforated lightweight construction brake discs with 4-piston fixed caliper brakes made of aluminium on the front axle and single-piston floating caliper brakes on the rear axle. Red brake calipers serve as a visual indication of the fact that the design of the BMW M Performance sport brake system is derived from motor racing.

The high-gloss black BMW M Performance kidney grille gives the front of the new BMW 6 Series Gran Turismo a specifically dynamic look. In combination with the black trim bars of the air flap control, the BMW kidney grille receives a perfectly colour harmonised appearance.

The BMW M Performance exterior mirror caps in carbon fibre are yet another visual highlight. The components made of carbon fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) are elaborately crafted by hand especially for the new BMW 6 Series Gran Turismo. Multi-layer paintwork and high-gloss finishing give the car’s surfaces their striking intensity. The BMW M Performance Frozen Black foil superbly accentuates the sporty-elegant lines and the harmonious proportions of the new BMW 6 Series Gran Turismo. The matt black and grey trim stripes match the car’s geometry perfectly.

The BMW M Performance sports steering wheels gives the new BMW 6 Series Gran Turismo a special motor racing touch inside the cockpit. Its alcantara-covered grip areas, large thumb rests and the slightly flattened lower section make it a pleasure to hold, provide optimum grip and ensure direct steering response. Soft nappa leather both in the upper and lower section as well as on the steering wheel trim, a silver-grey cross-stitch seam and the red central marking at the 12 o’clock position round off the highly dynamic design of the BMW M Performance sports steering wheel. It also features shift paddles for manually selecting gears in conjunction with the 8-speed Steptronic sports transmission. BMW M Performance foot mats are also available in the cockpit product range.

The model-specific retrofit options from the BMW M Performance range will be available right from the launch of the new BMW 6 Series Gran Turismo. All products form part of the Original BMW Accessories program, sold and installed through the BMW dealer network, BMW sales subsidiaries and BMW Service Partners.

courtesy: www.press.bmwgroup.com

The new BMW 6 Series Gran Turismo

The new BMW 6 Series Gran Turismo

The new BMW 6 Series Gran Turismo

BMW is presenting an extensively updated successor to one of the most creative vehicle concepts of recent years. The new BMW 6 Series Gran Turismo blends the long-distance comfort of a luxury sedan with alluring coupe style.

 

The impressive functionality offered by this body format and the high standards of driving comfort and spaciousness that provide the ideal setting for a relaxing journey are among the features that defined the character of the new car’s predecessor – the founder of this vehicle genre. These strengths have now been further honed in the new BMW 6 Series Gran Turismo, whose systematic evolution from the BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo is particularly evident in the new model’s sporting elegance, highly advanced equipment features, innovative control and assistance systems, and a leap forward in dynamism and efficiency.

“The BMW 6 Series Gran Turismo offers a unique combination of luxurious interior comfort and flexible practicality, packaged within a truly elegant design. Coupled with the sporty, dynamic driving characteristics our customers enjoy, this car is an outstanding vehicle which further enhances the upper end of our BMW model line-up,” comments Dr Ian Robertson, Member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, responsible for Sales and Brand BMW.

The new BMW 6 Series Gran Turismo will make its public debut at Frankfurt’s International Motor Show (IAA) in September 2017. The market launch will then get underway in November 2017, when there will initially be a choice of three engines from the BMW Group’s latest generation of power units. The BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive system will also be available for two model variants from launch.

Lighter, sportier, more comfortable and more efficient.

A combination of intelligent lightweight engineering and increased use of aluminium and high-strength steel grades for body and chassis components has shaved an average of around 150 kilograms off the weight of the new BMW 6 Series Gran Turismo compared to the outgoing model. Together with the considerable improvement in the car’s aerodynamic properties, the increase in power and the superior efficiency of the new engines, this endows the car with sportier performance at the same time as optimising fuel economy. Depending on the engine variant, the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) is completed up to 0.7 seconds quicker (BMW 630i Gran Turismo) than in the equivalent predecessor model, while fuel consumption and emissions figures in the NEDC test cycle are as much as 15 per cent lower (BMW 640i Gran Turismo, BMW 630d Gran Turismo). Handling dynamics and driving comfort in the new BMW 6 Series Gran Turismo both reap the benefits of the extensive improvements made to chassis technology. Self-levelling air suspension comes as standard at the rear axle, while ride comfort especially can be further enhanced by opting for the Adaptive suspension (featuring front and rear air suspension plus Dynamic Damper Control). The Executive Drive option, which is offered in combination with the Integral Active Steering system and also includes active roll stabilisation, gives the vehicle a sportier edge. The two-axle air suspension allows the vehicle’s ride height to be adjusted manually, meaning that ground clearance can be increased by 20 millimetres at the touch of a button to negotiate dirt tracks or steep ramps, for example. The vehicle can also be lowered by 10 millimetres – either manually by again pushing a button, or automatically when SPORT mode is engaged via the Driving Experience Control switch or the car’s speed exceeds 120 km/h (75 mph). All optional suspension systems are now available in conjunction with BMW xDrive.

Design: dynamic proportions and elegant, flowing lines.

An exterior length of 5,091 millimetres (an increase of 87 millimetres on its predecessor), an unchanged width of 1,902 millimetres and a reduction in height of 21 millimetres (to 1,538 millimetres) give the new BMW 6 Series Gran Turismo dynamically stretched proportions. The front end has a distinctive, powerful appearance, with the lenses of the standard LED headlights extending all the way to the large BMW kidney grille. BMW’s signature sporting elegance comes to the fore particularly prominently when the car is viewed in profile, thanks to familiar features such as the long bonnet, set-back positioning of the cabin, a wheelbase of 3,070 millimetres, doors with frameless windows, and an elongated window outline stretching deep into the rear end. The roofline sweeps down, coupe-style, to merge into a tail section that is now 64 millimetres lower in height. Rear lights with three-dimensional styling add an eye-catching touch.

The low-slung silhouette also has a beneficial effect on the car’s aerodynamic properties, combining with active air flap control and other measures including Air Curtains, Air Breathers and an automatically extending rear spoiler to lower the drag coefficient (Cd) from the predecessor’s figure of 0.29 to as little as 0.25.

Ideal blend of driving pleasure, long-distance comfort and functionality.

The interior has been designed to provide a driver-focused cockpit and an extremely spacious passenger compartment. The raised seating position optimises the driver’s all-round view and, together with the faultlessly ergonomic arrangement of the controls, helps to create an imperious sense of driving pleasure. The cabin’s lines, materials and precision workmanship imbue it with a highly sophisticated, premium feel. The rear compartment of the new BMW 6 Series Gran Turismo comprises three full-size seats offering maximised legroom. Exhaustive optimisation of the cabin’s packaging sees the new model’s far flatter roofline still translating into extra headroom, while the restyled rear seat unit and improved soundproofing make it even more comfortable to travel in. The electrically-adjustable comfort seats optionally available for the rear allow the backrest angle to be altered at the push of a button.

The BMW 6 Series Gran Turismo features a one-piece tailgate that opens and closes electrically as standard. The boot capacity of 610 litres is 110 litres larger than the predecessor model’s. The boot sill has been lowered by more than five centimetres and is now flush with the boot floor. The 40 : 20 : 40 split backrest can be released remotely and folded flat electrically via a button in the boot. All of which means that maximum load space has increased to 1,800 litres – up 100 litres on the outgoing model. The two-piece luggage compartment cover has a rigid structure and can be stowed away in a compartment underneath the boot floor.

New generation of engines, eight-speed Steptronic transmission as standard, BMW xDrive as an option.

The line-up of engines available for the new BMW 6 Series Gran Turismo feature cutting-edge TwinPower Turbo technology and team up with the eight-speed Steptronic transmission as standard. The 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol unit in the new BMW 630i Gran Turismo delivers a maximum output of 190 kW/258 hp and peak torque of 400 Nm (295 lb-ft). It propels the car from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 6.3 seconds and posts combined fuel consumption of 6.6–6.2 litres per 100 kilometres (42.8–45.6 mpg imp)* and CO2 emissions of 152–142 grams per kilometre*.

Generating an output of 250 kW/340 hp and maximum torque of 450 Nm (332 lb-ft), the 3.0-litre six-cylinder in-line petrol engine enables the new BMW 640i Gran Turismo to accelerate to 100 km/h (62 mph) from rest in 5.4 seconds, while the new BMW 640i xDrive Gran Turismo is a tick faster at 5.3 seconds. The combined fuel consumption of the two models comes in at 7.4–7.0 litres per 100 kilometres (38.2–40.4 mpg imp) and 8.2–7.7 litres per 100 kilometres (34.5–36.7 mpg imp)* respectively, which equates to CO2 figures of between 169 / 159 grams and 187 / 177 grams per kilometre*.

The 3.0-litre six-cylinder in-line diesel engine producing 195 kW/265 hp and peak torque of 620 Nm (457 lb-ft) can likewise be combined with all-wheel drive as an option. The new BMW 630d Gran Turismo and the new BMW 630d xDrive Gran Turismo race from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 6.1 seconds and 6.0 seconds respectively. The combined fuel consumption and emissions figures are 5.3–4.9 litres per 100 kilometres (53.3–57.7 mpg imp)* and 139–129 grams per kilometre* for the BMW 630d Gran Turismo and 5.9–5.5 litres per 100 kilometres (47.9–51.4 mpg imp)* and 154–144 grams per kilometre* for the BMW 630d xDrive Gran Turismo.

Uniquely versatile control system.

The new BMW 6 Series Gran Turismo is equipped with a display and control system offering unrivalled versatility for operating vehicle, navigation, communication and infotainment functions. At the heart of it all is the iDrive system, complete with the Touch Controller on the centre console and the Control Display, now in the form of a freestanding touchscreen. The high-resolution display has a screen diagonal of 10.25 inches, while its tile-style menu layout with animated graphics in live mode facilitates intuitive operation. The new BMW 6 Series Gran Turismo also offers the convenience of both enhanced voice control and BMW gesture control. And customers can specify the new-generation BMW Head-Up Display, too, whose projection area is 70 per cent larger than before.

Assistance systems that smooth the way to automated driving.

The driver assistance systems fitted in the new BMW 6 Series Gran Turismo make use of the standard stereo camera as well as optional radar and ultrasonic sensors to monitor the vehicle’s surroundings. The Collision and Pedestrian Warning with City Collision Mitigation comes as standard, while the list of options includes the new, improved version of Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go function operational at speeds between 0 and 210 km/h (130 mph). The Steering and lane control assistant (active in the same speed range) represents another step along the road to automated driving. It uses road markings and vehicles driving ahead for orientation and helps the driver to keep the vehicle in the detected lane. The Lane Departure and Lane Change Warning systems, Side Collision Warning and the evasion aid likewise enhance convenience and safety by coming to the driver’s assistance with corrective steering inputs. The Crossing traffic warning, Priority warning, Crossroads warning and Wrong-way warning systems similarly do their bit to avoid potentially hazardous situations. And the BMW 6 Series Gran Turismo can also be ordered with the Remote Control Parking feature.

BMW Connected: personal mobility assistant, new services.

BMW 6 Series Gran Turismo owners can also enjoy the benefits of BMW Connected, intelligent connectivity enabling this digital personal mobility assistant to help drivers reach their destination easily and with minimal stress – and not only when they are in their car. To this end, calendar entries from a smartphone can be used for route planning, for instance, the ideal departure time can be calculated on the basis of real-time traffic data and the navigation destination can be transferred to the owner’s car. Once inside, drivers are able to manage calendar, e-mail and contact data via the Microsoft Exchange function. Their smartphone is integrated wirelessly via Bluetooth and inductive charging is also possible.

Real Time Traffic Information indicates the presence of tailbacks and slow-moving traffic, On-Street Parking Information helps to find available parking spots at the side of the road, and the Remote 3D View function allows drivers to view live images of their car and its immediate vicinity on their smartphone.

Model variants from launch:
BMW 630i Gran Turismo:
Four-cylinder petrol engine, eight-speed Steptronic transmission.
Capacity: 1,998cc, output: 190 kW/258 hp at 5,000 – 6,500 rpm,
max. torque: 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) at 1,550 – 4,400 rpm.
Acceleration [0 – 100 km/h (62 mph)]: 6.3 seconds,
top speed: 250 km/h (155 mph).
Fuel consumption, combined*: 6.6 – 6.2 l/100 km (42.8 – 45.6 mpg imp),
CO2 emissions, combined*: 152 – 142 g/km.

BMW 640i Gran Turismo / BMW 640i xDrive Gran Turismo:
Six-cylinder in-line petrol engine, eight-speed Steptronic transmission.
Capacity: 2,998cc, output: 250 kW/340 hp at 5,500 – 6,500 rpm,
max. torque: 450 Nm (332 lb-ft) at 1,380 – 5,200 rpm.
Acceleration [0 – 100 km/h (62 mph)]: 5.4 seconds / 5.3 seconds,
top speed: 250 km/h (155 mph) / 250 km/h (155 mph).
Fuel consumption, combined*: 7.4 – 7.0 l/100 km (38.2 – 40.4 mpg imp) / 8.2 – 7.7 l/100 km (34.5 – 36.7 mpg imp),
CO2 emissions, combined*: 169 – 159 g/km / 187 – 177 g/km.

BMW 630d Gran Turismo / BMW 630d xDrive Gran Turismo:
Six-cylinder in-line diesel engine, eight-speed Steptronic transmission.
Capacity: 2,993cc, output: 195 kW/265 hp at 4,000 rpm, max. torque: 620 Nm (457 lb-ft) at 2,000 – 2,500 rpm.
Acceleration [0 – 100 km/h (62 mph)]: 6.1 seconds / 6.0 seconds,
top speed: 250 km/h (155 mph) / 250 km/h (155 mph).
Fuel consumption, combined*: 5.3 – 4.9 l/100 km (53.3 – 57.7 mpg imp) / 5.9 – 5.5 l/100 km (47.9 – 51.4 mpg imp),
CO2 emissions, combined*: 139 – 129 g/km / 154 – 144 g/km.

courtesy: www.press.bmwgroup.com