Three international design awards for Automobili Lamborghini



The Lamborghini Gallardo recently received the highly acclaimed Red Dot Design award for its ‘high design quality’ by the Design Zentrum Nordrhein Westfalen shortly before its market introduction.

The Red Dot Design Award is one of the most prestigious international design prizes which judges products in all commercial sectors. The award was handed to Luc Donckerwolke, head of the Centro Stile Lamborghini.

In addition, the “icon” Murciélago was honoured with the famous Red Dot Design Award in the category ‘Best of the Best for the highest design quality’.

Unveiled two years ago, the Murciélago was the first model to represent the introduction of Lamborghini’s new design philosophy. It has subsequently received world-wide acclaim, numerous design prizes and has been successfully sold on an international level.

The Lamborghini brand, which was relaunched at the IAA Frankfurt Motorshow in 2001 and represented by a new stand concept, was crowned with the Red Dot Award for it’s impressive and strong corporate design.

In the year of its 40th Anniversary, Automobili Lamborghini will reach a production volume exceeding 1000 units in 2003.

Over 600 of these will be Gallardos.



Sant’Agata Bolognese, 4 July 2003

and...

The Gallardo is
“the world’s most beautiful car”
among the supercars




The Lamborghini Gallardo has been selected by an international jury, which gathered in Milan, as “The world’s most beautiful car in 2003” in the sport and supercar category.

The jury – made up of designers, automobile historians and art experts, as well as specialised journalists – have chosen Lamborghini from prestigious national and international candidates which were displayed together with fifty cars of all categories, in the charming background of the castello Sforzesco in Milan.

“This represents a very important award, not just for the Gallardo and for its unique design concept – Lamborghini’s President Werner Mischke commented – but also for all the people who work in the Sant’Agata plant.

The award will be handed over on the forthcoming 5th March on the occasion of the Milan Triennale.

In 2001, the first model in the new Lamborghini’s range, the Murciélago, also received a special award.


Sant’Agata Bolognese, 12 November 2003

SUZUKI AUTO SHINES ON THE STRIP

DURING 2007 SEMA SHOW

Suzuki debuts sportbike-inspired SXForce based on all-new 2008 SX4 Sport

SX4 WRC and Grand Vitara Dune appeal to off-road enthusiasts

Five-door SX4 Crossover flaunts concept- and production-based accessory line




LAS VEGAS – (Oct. 29, 2007) – American Suzuki Motor Corp. showcases four spirited and dynamic vehicles at the 2007 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) trade show, including its never-before-seen, sportbike-inspired SXForce LIVE vehicle based on the all-new 2008 four-door SX4 Sport. A vehicle designed for four-wheel and two-wheel tuner enthusiasts, SXForce communicates Suzuki’s “Way of Life” brand philosophy as a company that builds fun-to-operate vehicles, from its widely recognized and high-performance motorcycles to its exciting and versatile cars and SUVs.




To further demonstrate the company’s bold and adventurous DNA, Suzuki displays its SX4 WRC car and rugged Grand Vitara Dune LIVE vehicle – two Suzuki machines designed for ultimate off-road performance. In addition, Suzuki offers aftermarket enthusiasts a sneak preview of a number of performance-based concept accessories – specifically developed for this year’s show – and an array of style-enhancing Genuine Suzuki Accessories for its 2008 five-door SX4 Crossover.




“Suzuki always looks forward to SEMA because of its upbeat and somewhat irreverent energy,” said Gene Brown, vice president of marketing and PR, American Suzuki Automotive Operations. “The overall enthusiasm for cars and for life that underlies the entire event meshes perfectly with our brand philosophy and parallels the passion infused into the concepts we have on display this year and the vehicles currently in our showrooms.”






SXForce

With the arrival of the 2008 SX4 Sport, Suzuki expands its highly popular and media-acclaimed Suzuki LIVE Series (LIFESTYLE VEHICLES) – a line of brand-dedicated concept vehicles specially designed for life enthusiasts, adventurers and thrill-seekers.

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Reinforcing the link between the company’s rich motorcycle heritage and versatile line of fun-to-drive automobiles, Suzuki introduces the SXForce, a sportbike-inspired concept based on the on the all-new 2008 SX4 Sport. Designed and built by Road Race Motorsports of Santa Fe Springs, Calif., the SXForce boasts a powerful 250-horsepower, 2.0-liter, turbocharged engine matched to a five-speed manual transmission.




The exterior shell of the SX4 Sport has been modified to be eye-catching to both four-wheel and two-wheel enthusiasts. It features a striking blend of carbon fiber, Flash Pearl White and Orange Metallic paint and showcases a number of performance-based automotive parts and stunning motorcycle accents, including sportbike-style side rearview mirrors and dual exhaust, also found on the championship-winning GSX-R1000.




While the SXForce is sure to be a showstopper on display, it was designed to look even better on the road. The fully drivable, track-tested SX4 Sport concept receives several performance enhancements, including a fully tuned performance suspension system, F1-style outlet gills to help underhood air flow, tailored rear bodywork with carbon fiber diffuser, Carbontrix rear wing, Tein coilover suspension height and damper setup, and reinforced structure to further enhance rigidity for optimal handling. The SXForce is outfitted with 18-inch Enkei racing wheels and a staggered high-performance Toyo T1-R tire package – 225/45-18 in the front and 235/40-18 in the rear. It also is equipped with Rotora six-piston calipers with two-piece 355mm rotors for sportbike stopping power.




The motorcycle theme continues inside the SXForce, beginning with suede and leather seats and interior appointments, mimicking sportbike leathers. Other interior enhancements include motorcycle instrument cluster and controls, roof air intake for optimal breathing and a revised track-themed interior, featuring carbon fiber components and accents. Engine vitals are monitored via a Zeitronix ZT-2 wideband data logger. All vital engine parameters are logged on a laptop and viewed on the ZT-2 gauge mounted on the Hayabusa handlebars. The SXForce is equipped with an integrated Garmin navigation system, and its rear seats have been removed and replaced by a high-output Rockford-Fosgate audio system.



















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S


X4 WRC

With its sports-minded heritage, coupled with a passion to excel in the world’s most competitive venues, Suzuki Auto drives toward another motorsports challenge with its entry in the World Rally Championship (WRC).




Derived from the five-door SX4 Crossover, a prototype model of the SX4 WRC was first unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in February 2006. Developed as a driver-friendly World Rally Car offering high controllability under a wide range of rally conditions, this creation by Suzuki Sport, Suzuki’s motorsports division, has involved an extensive testing program on many different types of surfaces. As a supplement to the testing, Suzuki Sport chose two events in 2007, the Rallye de France and the Wales Rally GB, to closely represent the majority of surface types. The Rallye de France is known as one of the most challenging tarmac events, and the Wales Rally GB, held later in the year, is well regarded for similar reasons.




The SX4 WRC boasts a 2.0-liter turbocharged J20 engine with full-time 4WD drivetrain and a five-speed sequential gearbox. The vehicle’s 1,997 cc engine delivers 320 brake horsepower between 4,000 and 4,500 rpm, along with a maximum torque of 590 N-m (435 lb.-ft.) at 3,500 rpm.




The SX4 WRC’s powertrain features a carbon three-disc clutch, electronically controlled center differential and mechanical front and rear differentials. Its well-balanced chassis and rigid structure allow the front and rear MacPherson struts with coil springs work to their full potential, and its Reiger shocks deliver dynamic, responsive handling. For tarmac, the vehicle is fitted with 20/65-18 tires fitted on 8X18-inch wheels. On gravel, 17/65-15 rubber is mounted to 7X15-inch wheels.




The SX4 WRC sits on a wheelbase of 2,500mm, stands 1,450mm high and weighs 1,230 kg (the minimum authorized). All specs reflect those of the final-phase development-test vehicle and are not necessarily indicative of the 2008 entry. As noted by Nobuhiro Tajima, vice president of Suzuki Sport, the endeavor is still in the early stages of development, including the engine, transmission and suspension.




The WRC effort builds on Suzuki’s outstanding success in the JWRC, where the Swift Super 1600 has enjoyed an excellent record, creating even more excitement and anticipation in 2008.

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Grand Vitara Dune

First introduced at the 2005 SEMA Show, the Grand Vitara Dune is designed for off-road enthusiasts who demand off-road capabilities. Well-equipped with 11.5 inches of minimum ground clearance and a towing capacity of 3,000 lbs., the Dune provides enough muscle to add a huge dose of exhilaration to any weekend. This Grand Vitara concept also features off-road skid plates, fender flares, wear-reducing cladding and running boards, all dressed in lightning yellow paint to match the color scheme of Suzuki ATVs. Roomy on the inside, the five-passenger Dune features a rear off-road gear storage and “mobile garage” work station, ideal for last-minute adjustments. The Dune also is equipped with a built-in GPS and navigation system.




SX4 Crossover Accessories

To complement Suzuki’s versatile, stylish product line, the company offers an array of Genuine Suzuki Accessories – a line of style-enhancing trim packages and accessories designed to personalize Suzuki cars and SUVs sold in the United States. Suzuki showcases a number of pre-production performance-enhancing parts and interior and exterior accessories for the sporty SX4 Crossover.




Concept Accessories:

Cat back Exhaust – Features stainless steel design, improves horsepower and offers deep performance tone that remains 50 state “sound level legal.”

Cold Air Intake – Intake system improves horsepower and offers performance pitch.

Sport Suspension – Lowers ride height (approx. 1.5 inches) for a firmer ride.

Alloy Wheels – Custom-designed 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels, available in a chrome finish or machined surface with black paint. Includes chrome lug nuts and Suzuki center cap.




Genuine Suzuki Accessories:

Rear Spoiler – Rally-inspired rear deck spoiler is molded in sturdy, lightweight polyurethane and is available color-matched to the SX4 Crossover.

Hood Mask – Custom-fit hood mask made of durable vinyl and soft fleece backing helps protect the front of the SX4 Crossover from damage caused by minor road debris.

Silver Finish Front Grille – Front grille replaces original black version and matches the lower bumper trim on the SX4 Crossover.

Carbon Fiber Dash Trim (Red) – Dash trim accents made of real carbon-fiber weave material with an exterior-grade urethane topcoat and screened SX4 logo are available in three different colors to coordinate or contrast with the interior of the SX4 Crossover. Trim fits both automatic and manual transmission models.

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Carbon Fiber Door Sill Trim (Red) – Door sill accents made of real carbon-fiber weave material with an exterior-grade urethane topcoat and screened SX4 logo are available in three different carbon-fiber weave colors or a brushed aluminum finish to coordinate or contrast with the interior of the SX4 Crossover.

Billet Sport Pedals – Sport pedal set, including dead pedal, is made of lightweight aluminum and non-slip rubber inserts, offering a highly polished look with engraved Suzuki logo.

Billet Battery Tie Down & Billet Oil Cap (Sold as a package) – Highly polished aluminum battery tie down and oil filler cap with engraved Suzuki logo to dress up your engine bay.

Blueconnect®, Bluetooth Phone System – Speaker- and microphone-integrated communication system that offers wireless interaction with any bluetooth-compatible cell phone, allowing dialing and hands-free communication with the touch of a button. Installation required (for non-sunroof models only).

Rear Bumper Protector – Adhesive-backed applique to help protect from minor nicks and scratches.



2008 Suzuki Auto Product Line

Beyond its show vehicles based on the spirited four-door SX4 Sport, bold and functional five-door SX4 Crossover and rugged Grand Vitara compact SUV, Suzuki Auto’s 2008 vehicle line includes the exciting XL7 midsize SUV, popular Forenza sedan and Forenza Wagon, and the European-styled Reno. Every vehicle in the line provides Suzuki’s standout virtues of toughness, leading-edge style and high-end features at very competitive prices. All 2008 Suzuki automobiles are backed by America’s #1 Warranty: a 100,000-mile/seven-year, fully transferable, zero-deductible powertrain limited warranty.




About Suzuki Auto
The Brea, Calif.-based Automotive Operations of American Suzuki Motor Corporation was founded in 1985 by parent company Suzuki Motor Corporation (SMC) and currently markets its vehicles in the United States through a network of approximately 500 automotive dealerships in 49 states. Based in Hamamatsu, Japan, SMC is a diversified worldwide automobile, motorcycle and outboard motor manufacturer with sales of more than two million new automobiles annually. Founded in 1909 and incorporated in 1920, SMC has operations in 187 countries. For more information, visit http://www.media.suzukiauto.com/.

The World’s MOST EXTREME PORSCHE - "Wicked Porsche" - Gives Racing Fans of All-Ages a Chance to Test Their "Need for Speed" at SEMA 2007

WHAT:
Calling ALL gamers and racing fans – you don’t need to buy a ticket to SEMA to see "Wicked Porsche" at SEMA, and to test drive some of the hottest new video games on the market on one of the car’s 13 + video screens! The world’s most extreme Porsche, "Wicked Porsche", is an F5 Porsche 986 GT S by A.I. Studios. It is the ONLY Porsche in the world with a full 128 track Pro-Tools recording studio built into it. A.I. Studios will be featuring their latest designs on "Wicked Porsche" at the 2007 SEMA Show in Las Vegas. The annual Show by SEMA (Specialty Equipment Market Association) is the world’s largest and most exciting trade show, which gathers vendors, buyers and enthusiasts from every corner of the earth under one huge roof (and several football-field-sized outdoor racetracks) for one week in Las Vegas. This year A.I. Studios will demonstrate the design features they have incorporated in "Wicked Porsche" which are based on the "Wicked’s" owners’ favorite video game - Need for Speed ™ by Electronic Arts. There will be gaming stations set up in and around "Wicked Porsche" so fans can play the newest games on the market (including a pre-release game set for retail release November 14, 2007) on one of the car’s 13+ video screens.

MAIN POINTS:
• SEMA Show 2008 will feature "Wicked Porsche" (the world’s only car with a full video & music recording studio built into it) from 10/30/07 – 11/2/07 at the Las Vegas Convention Center.
• Interactive gaming stations built into "Wicked Porsche" will allow fans of all ages to play the hottest video games (some even weeks before it’s released in stores - just in time for your Holiday Gift List).
• Up and Coming Cyren Records’ recording artists Didi, Alter Image, and Sunny Lane will be onsite to meet their fans, sign autographs, and challenge attendees to a round or two on the video games (where challengers can receive free t-shirts, music CDs, video games, etc…).
• A.I. Studios will present the new design updates to "Wicked Porsche" including vertical doors, 3 carbon-fiber bottle NOS Nitrous Oxide System, 8000 Watt SONY competition class sound system, modified air intake system for horse-power increases, 30" DLP projection video, wireless 2" video monitors incorporated into the custom chrome Carrera Sport Wheels, Artist Kit Rae’s fantasy blades incorporated into the door handles and other panels, solar-powered high intensity LED fog and security lights, etc…
• A.I. Studios will be hosting a Convention After-Party every night (10/30 – 11/2/07) from 10 pm – 5 am at the Sapphire Club.
• Live bands and DJs will perform through "Wicked Porsche’s" intense sound system.
• SONY Give Aways (like hats, t-shirts, posters, etc…)
For more information, go to www. http://www.semashow.com/

SEMA Zone TV

SEMA ZONE TV SERIES OFFERS ALL ACCESS PASS TO AFTERMARKET INDUSTRY

Former SEMA Chairman Corky Coker Hosts New SPIKE TV Show

Irvine, CA (October 31, 2007) – As the premier automotive specialty product trade event, the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show attracts professionals from across the world for a glimpse of the hottest products, trends, events, and players in the aftermarket industry.
Although the annual SEMA Show is not open to the general public, many automotive enthusiasts desire the latest aftermarket business news throughout the year. To meet the demand of these enthusiastic aftermarket addicts, the new SPIKE TV television series “SEMA ZONE” will provide an insider look into the industry’s most influential personalities, ideas and innovative products. Following the premier episode on February 2, 2008, this new exciting automotive aftermarket program will air on Spike TV weekly.

SEMA ZONE features interviews with celebrities, designers, low riders, hot rodders, modifiers and tuners while showcasing garages and modifiers specializing in extreme paint jobs, performance exhaust systems, tricked out rims, ground effects and more. In addition to the professional and celebrity interviews, the show will discuss the latest and greatest in the car hobby with everyday enthusiasts. Created by Art Royce, co-founder and CEO of the Irvine, CA based Coast Media Teleproductions, Inc. and Coast Media Worldwide, Inc., this high energy series entertains and educates viewers about the newest innovations and the brightest minds in the automotive aftermarket.

With his diverse background as an actor, musician, automotive engineer, film and television show producer, Royce founded Coast Media Teleproductions with his wife Joyce in 1987. Since 2001, Royce has been involved in creating, producing and directing the live and broadcast versions of “The Meguiar's Award,” an annual event at the Kodak Theatre in Hollywood that honors the person of the year in the car hobby. In 2004, Royce began producing and directing Car Crazy TV, which is now one of the high rated shows on SPEED. Royce previously produced live television coverage of the SEMA Show for Car Crazy's SEMA TV.

“No other television program covers the entire automotive aftermarket industry like the new SEMA ZONE show,” said Royce, who also produces and directs each episode. “Corky Coker’s undeniable passion for cars and aftermarket background makes him the ideal host for such a diverse show.”

As former chairman of the SEMA and president of Coker Tire, a family business celebrating their 50 year anniversary in 2008, Corky Coker has a life long connection to the collector car hobby and over three decades in the automotive aftermarket business. Joined by customization guru David “the Fishman” Rivera, “bling” expert/hip hop artist DJ Skribble and other colorful segment hosts, Coker will utilize his unique perspective, automotive expertise, Southern charm and quick wit to give viewers an inside look at the automotive aftermarket industry. Coker wraps up each episode by addressing new proposed laws that affect the hobby. This “Heads Up” segment informs the audience on how to make difference in these important issues and offers responses to viewer letters.

“I am so excited to be a part of the new SEMA ZONE television series,” said Coker. “SEMA ZONE offers the public a backstage pass for the all the innovative products, news and influential personalities in this relentlessly growing industry.”

For more information or videos from each show, please visit the SEMA ZONE website: www.xtremezone.tv.

Coker Tire Company, Inc. of Chattanooga, Tennessee is the world's largest supplier of collector vehicle tires, with distributors in more than 30 countries. The company offers vintage bias-ply and nostalgia-style radial tires for collector vehicles from the late 1890s through the mid 1970s, including products for antique autos and trucks, hot rods, vintage race-cars and vintage motorcycles. Coker Tire also sells vintage-style wheels and rims, Michelin memorabilia, novelty bicycles and unicycles. Customers can visit www.cokertire.com to shop, request a catalog, and place an order or call (800) 251-6336 for more information.