Automobile News

Electrically powered super sports cars are currently the favourite goal for many small car manufacturers. The American company Shelby Super Cars (SSC) wants to gain some attention through their announcement of a new model with up to 1000 HP. The Ultimate Aero EV should come onto the market in the beginning of 2009 and at first only possess an electric engine with 368 kW/ 500 HP; but later it should add an additional engine to double its performance. The battery technology is said to be truly revolutionary: according to the company, the power accumulator only needs to be charged after a few years of use.

The technical feasibility of such a car remains in doubt, but SSC is clearly appealing to a new trend. After the Californian company Tesla began building their own super fast electric sports car despite multiple delays, other companies are following suit with similar models. LCC already introduced an electric model at the London Motor Show with 700 horse power, and Fisker wants to build a luxurious Gran Turismo with a hybrid engine.

The 221 kW/ 300 HP high performance Ford Focus compact car is coming to the UK in the beginning of 2009. The front wheel drive vehicle is celebrating its premiere at the Motor Show in London, taking place from July 23rd to August 3rd. The three door car is recognisable on the outside through the ventilation slots right behind the front wheel house, the two ventilation slots on the engine hood, a two part rear spoiler, and deep indents below the side doors. A diffuser at the rear, which is flanked by a chrome exhaust pipe, provides for extra propulsion.

The engine comes from an improved version of the 2.5 litre turbo spark-ignited engine, which is recognisable from the Focus ST. The five cylinder engine possesses a maximum torque of 410 Nm and should make it possible to accelerate from 0 to 60 miles per hour in less than six seconds.

In order to bring the immense power onto the street, the front axel has had to be redeveloped. It possesses a limited slip differential, and a special suspension. The rear axel has also received a strengthened stabiliser. The brakes are also on board with increased power.

Ford is again starting up the “RS” brand with the new super Focus. The letters were first used to describe particularly powerful models back in the late 60’s. One of the most well known RS models is the Escort RS1600 introduced in 1970. The prices for the new edition remain undecided.