naias 2015

Track Testing at the ‘Ring Inspired Shelby GT350 Aero Updates

This entry was posted in cars Ford technology and tagged 2015 ford shelby gt350 mustang aerodynamics ford gt350 gt350r mustang naias 2015 naias2015 on by (updated 3633 days ago)

 

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The 2015 Ford Shelby GT350R Mustang gets a more prominent spoiler inspired by track testing at the Nurburgring

 

When the new track-focuse Ford Shelby GT350R drifted its way onto the stage in Detroit’s Joe Louis Arena on Monday morning, the most obvious visual difference compared to the base model was the massive rear wing.

When the white baseline Shelby was initially revealed at the LA Auto Show in November, only a subtle black Gurney strip was added to the trailing edge of the trunklid, the same setup that appeared on the prototypes that were spotted circulating the Nurburgring last July. Here in Detroit, that same baseline Shelby had a significantly larger, more aggressive rear spoiler similar to those found on non-Shelby Mustangs for 2015.

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When it was revealed in Los Angeles in November, the GT350 had a subtle Gurney strip on the trailing edge of the decklid

 

It turns out the testing at the ‘Ring and other tracks was behind the change. I spoke with Chris Svensson, Ford design director, the Americas while checking out the new GT and the GT350R on the show floor in Detroit.

“After analyzing the data from testing in Germany and validating it in the wind-tunnel and other tracks, we realized need to adjust the total downforce and balance front to rear,” said Svensson. “The front splitter and the rear spoilers have all had some additional development to optimize the high-speed handling.”

The baseline 2015 GT350 also gets a more prominent rear spoiler for extra downforce and better balance

The baseline 2015 GT350 also gets a more prominent rear spoiler for extra downforce and better balance

The result is an even more aggressive look to the already mean looking Mustang although Ford has yet to reveal specific details about precisely how much downforce or power the new pony will generate. Let the battle between the GT350R and Z/28 begin.

 

Production 2016 Acura NSX to Debut at Detroit Auto Show

This entry was posted in cars and tagged acura detroit auto show fuel cell vehicle honda hondajet naias naias 2015 nsx on by (updated 3660 days ago)

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After what seems like about 63 concept versions of a second-generation NSX since 2007, Acura will finally reveal the definitive production model at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit on January 12, 2015. The following day, at the Honda press conference, the company will show the final concept version of the new fuel cell car that will go on sale in early 2016. American Honda executive vice president John Mendel declared that 2015 would be the “Year of Honda.”

Over the next 12 months, Honda will launch the new NSX, begin deliveries of the HondaJet executive jet, return to Formula One racing with McLaren and start production of a new downsized turbocharged engine at the Anna, Ohio engine plant. This winter, Honda will also launch the new subcompact crossover HR-V followed by an all-new Pilot in the spring.

The first production HondaJet achieved its first flight on Friday, June 27, 2014. The flight marks another milestone toward aircraft certification and entry into service in 2015.

The first production HondaJet achieved its first flight on Friday, June 27, 2014. The flight marks another milestone toward aircraft certification and entry into service in 2015.

For enthusiasts, the big news is the production NSX with an all-new engine and a three-motor hybrid system. The three motor layout was announced at the 2013 Detroit show with two motors on the front axle for all-wheel-drive and a third motor integrated with the new V6 engine at the back. In a teaser video to be released by Honda today, we get our first hint of what the NSX will sound like and it’s clear that this is no Prius.

Honda hasn’t yet revealed details about the displacement or configuration of the new Ohio-built engine or which cars it will be installed in. It will be part of the first turbocharged member of the Earth Dreams family of direct-injected engines and will of course use Honda’s VTEC variable valve timing system.