Cadillac Ciel Concept

The Cadillac Ciel Concept - pronounced "C-L," the French translation for sky - is a four-seat convertible that opens a new chapter in Cadillac's design and product ascent, pushing the brand's Art & Science philosophy into a new stratum. Ciel is a new expression of Cadillac's historical grandeur, as well as a celebration of open-air motoring.
"Large, expressive luxury is innate to Cadillac and the Ciel recalls that heritage, while suggesting where the brand can go in the future," said Clay Dean, global design director for Cadillac. "Authentic luxury is driven by experiences, not just products, and Ciel is about the experience of the journey."

The spacious and elegant Cadillac Ciel Concept is a grand gesture that explores themes driving Cadillac's explorations into range-topping flagship luxury. It is powered by a twin-turbocharged version of the 3.6-liter Direct Injection V-6 engine, paired with a hybrid system using lithium-ion battery technology.
Coastal inspiration
Driving California's Highway 1 in an open car while the sun sets, from Big Sur north to Monterey, is the type of journey the Ciel team envisioned during its design.
"The Ciel is about the romance of the drive," said Dean. "It emulates the great touring cars seen on the greens at Pebble Beach, but with a modern flair that projects Cadillac's vision for the future."
The four-door Cadillac Ciel Concept embraces the social aspects of a recreational journey, with generous room for two couples. It evokes the spirit of the classics with a long, low proportion. The doors are French-style, with the rear doors hinged at the rear - there is no B-pillar - to reveal a sweeping view of the dramatic interior. Distinguishing fender lines run from nose to tail, and nickel-plated bright work accents the body lines, enhancing the visual length of the car and honoring Cadillac touring cars of the past.
Cadillac Ciel Concept's exterior flows seamlessly into the cabin, with the body color rolling over on top of the interior door panels. Like the exterior, the passenger space is accented with sweeping nickel-plated trim. It divides the body-color upper sections from a complementing beige lower color. Italian Olive wood, machined aluminum and hand-tipped leather are elements that flow through the interior, complementing the primary colors with warm, rich tones.
"There is authentic craftsmanship in the way the exterior and interior elements meld, much like a vintage wooden boat," said Gael Buzyn, interior design manager. "It is romantic, not only in its form, but the materials - nothing smells as good as real wood and leather. It blends together for a rewarding feeling of uncompromising luxury."
Cadillac Ciel Concept literally and figuratively reflects the driving experience along the California coastline. The Cabernet paint color, developed specifically for Ciel, is inspired by the rich translucence of a glass of red wine held up to the sunlight.

A prominent, polished aluminum windshield frame serves as in important structural element of the vehicle, as well as aesthetic one, recalling classic open cars of the past. Additional exterior cues, including a shield grille and vertical lighting elements, are pure Cadillac, but suggest a more organic interpretation of the brand's signature design language that emphasizes the artistic and natural sides of it. The body sides, for example, are more rounded, sweeping upward. Bright work is used to bring contrast to the deep paint color, but plays a more supporting role.
The car rides on large, beautifully finished wheels that feature brushed nickel plating over milled billet aluminum, matching the materials and appearance of other trim. Carbon ceramic brake rotors are visible behind the 22-inch rims, a visual clue to the Ciel's foundation of performance.
And owing to Cadillac's heritage of advanced technology, the headlamps and taillamps feature LED lighting elements - including a unique daytime running light graphic on the front of the vehicle that is generated with gradated LED lighting.
Elegant, authentic details
Simplicity, authenticity and spaciousness were the guiding principles when it came to developing the Cadillac Ciel Concept's interior.
"With the Ciel, the journey is the thing, so the interior is a place of uncompromising comfort and elegance, with technology that only makes the journey more enjoyable," said Buzyn. "Simplicity and lightness ensure nothing distracts from the open driving experience, while the color and materials lend the feeling that the vehicle's environment blends with the surroundings."
A wheelbase of 125 inches - about 12 inches longer than a CTS sedan - provides generous space. Luxurious seats are bisected by a "floating" center console that runs from the instrument panel to the rear of the interior. It effectively creates a very personal space for each passenger and houses access to hidden connectivity portals for each person in the vehicle - allowing them to make dinner reservations, check the weather at their destination or even upload photos of the trip via social media sights.
Simplicity is also the watchword with the Cadillac Ciel Concept's instrument panel, which features a minimalist gauge cluster that doesn't impede or distract from the outward view. But while reserved in its form, it exemplifies Cadillac's attention to details and its priority on authentic materials. The climate vents, for example, are mostly hidden and their airflow is distributed indirectly.
Transparent gauges deliver their information within a detailed, brushed-aluminum housing that has the intricate depth of a high-quality chronograph. They offer dual readouts - analog and digital - as well as an information hierarchy. Additional interior features include:

• Sloping bolsters on the seats that allow passengers to slide into the seats more comfortably
• A personal device storage area on the front of the console with inductive charging and Bluetooth connectivity
• A power-assisted transmission shifter that deploys as soon as the engine is started
• Lighting in the armrests that combines a natural light well for daytime driving and ambient lighting for nighttime drives
• Door storage areas that are inspired by premium fashion accessories and open with high-quality zippers
• Pull-out blankets are available for all three passengers and retract automatically
• All the seats have heating and cooling features, along with a drawer containing sun lotion, sun glasses and towels, as well as aromatherapy that is controlled from the rear armrest.

But perhaps the defining element of the Ciel's cabin is the incorporation of Italian Olive wood on the doors, instrument panel, console and the front seatbacks, adding warmth and craftsmanship to a car designed to provoke an emotional response.
"Milled solid wood delivers richness and a sensual feeling of authenticity in the visual impact of the grain, its feel and aroma, which a veneer simply cannot," said Buzyn. "Even in our high-tech, connected world, luxury customers crave touches of old-world craftsmanship - the Cadillac Ciel Concept simply reflects that with a blend of the latest technology."
Italian Olive wood is a premium yet sustainable material and the material used in the Ciel came from a single fallen and recycled tree, from a west coast producer of premium olive oil. It was painstakingly prepared, including drying in a kiln, before it was cut for the concept vehicle. The numerous pieces were then photographed so that the grain could be matched precisely. Each component was hand-milled and finished by expert woodworking craftsmen.
The rear seating area is detailed with elegant flourishes. The rear seat passengers can pull a leather tab, which reveals a cashmere blanket that stretches across the seating area to ward off a chill. The wood trim in the rear center console opens to reveal a small humidor, stocked with a few cigars.
"From the materials used to create it to the space and experience it offers passengers, the Cadillac Ciel Concept represents a unique perspective on luxury, but not the only one," said Dean. "Along with other concepts, such as the ULC, Cadillac is demonstrating that the bandwidth of the Art & Science philosophy is wide, indeed - and we're going to make it even wider."
The Cadillac Ciel Concept was developed at GM Design's North Hollywood Design Center, which is managed by Frank Saucedo. Niki Smart was the lead exterior designer, with Buzyn leading interior development.

Fisker Surf

In a design masterstroke, Fisker Automotive has created a completely original vehicle: the first electric luxury/sports automobile for an active and eco-friendly lifestyle. The Fisker Surf builds on the success of the ground-breaking Karma Electric Vehicle with extended range (EVer™) by adding additional, flexible load-carrying capability, along with a spirited new attitude all its own.
Fisker Surf combines performance, luxury, style, utility, and economy with an enduring concern for the sustainable use of resources and respect for our natural environment.

As a global company Fisker Automotive will offer the Surf in all its markets around the world for the 2013 model year. The Fisker Surf will create a new niche and open new customer markets for Fisker, by appealing to those looking for this unique blend of advanced technology, innovative design and environmental sensitivity, with added versatility. Europe, in particular, has demonstrated a historic fondness for sport-wagon design, and it is there where Fisker anticipates strong demand.
The Fisker Surf is the first vehicle of its kind and a radical departure from traditional vehicles offered by other manufacturers. It brings added energy to Fisker's focus on Uncompromised Responsible LuxuryTM and Pure Driving PassionTM.
Exterior Design
Very early in the development of the original Karma sedan, company CEO and Executive Design Director, Henrik Fisker decided a more versatile variant would be part of the model lineup. So when the time came for the evolution from Karma to Surf the path had already been defined for combining utility with bold and striking design.

Ford Formula 2012

Ford unveiled a bold new 2012-specification Formula Ford car to visitors at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show. It's the formula that has been an essential step in the professional racing driver's career for more than 40 years and this all-new car for next season will have talented young drivers around the world eager to get behind the wheel to prove their mettle.
The new-generation Formula Ford cars will use a production-based 1.6-litre Ford EcoBoost direct injection, turbocharged engine, limited to producing around 165PS and 220Nm, and mated to a 6-speed sequential transmission with mechanical shift mechanism. The 2012 specification car represents another advance in technology and performance for the formula.

Freedom of chassis design, engine build and numerous technical items of specification have always been standout features of Formula Ford and this continues with the 2012 specification car. With only Formula 1 and Formula 3 offering this same level of freedom, it helps drive technical standards to exceptionally high levels from car manufacturers, teams and drivers alike. The different implications of car set-up and each individual chassis variation, create a steep learning curve for drivers in particular, helping to accelerate the development of their abilities to take the next step in motorsport.
Ford's global kinetic design philosophy is also echoed in the new-generation car, giving fans of the championship a style they can easily recognise. Car manufacturers will still be able to add that crucial individual touch to their cars though, with only the requirement to keep specific parts developed for aerodynamic equivalence mandated in the regulations.

Creating a safe environment is a key concern for Formula Ford, and the new car boasts increased levels of safety including a tubular chassis - the first in a single seat racer to comply with the latest, stringent FIA safety standards - front and rear carbon crash structures, side intrusion panels, FIA specification head restraint system, wheel tethers and an FIA removable seat.
FIA compliance will allow the 2012 specification car to be applicable for Formula Ford championships around the globe, especially in emerging markets where alignment to FIA regulations is commonplace.
"The 2012 specification car's FIA approved safety attributes, powerful Ford EcoBoost engine and striking kinetic design, make for a really appealing proposition for race teams and drivers," said Mike Norton, motorsport manager, Ford of Europe. "Formula Ford is already well-known as the perfect proving ground for up-and-coming drivers and engineers, and it is Ford's desire to continue nurturing this by supporting teams and manufacturers across the globe with the safest environment, latest technologies and most attractive packages. Formula Ford is in its 44th consecutive year and remains a very popular choice for drivers around the world. Many Formula Ford drivers have gone onto careers in Formula 1. This is a great compliment to Formula Ford and we are at Ford proud of this achievement."
For race teams and car manufactures Formula Ford represents a fantastic opportunity to prove their abilities and highlights Ford's dedication to continuing its support of motorsport. From World Rally Championship to single seat racing, Ford's motorsport heritage is one of the longest and strongest of any manufacturer. The 2012 specification Formula Ford car will carry that torch into the future with some style.

Alonso: A 'moral obligation' to fight

This year's Championship has not been a first-class one for Ferrari who were slow out of the blocks. The Scuderia had to wait until round nine of the season, the British GP, to record their first race victory and to date it has been their only one.

With just 215 points to their tally, the Italian stable trails leaders Red Bull Racing by 168 points in the Constructors' Championship while Alonso, Ferrari's best-placed driver in the race for the World title, is 89 points behind Sebastian Vettel.

But despite the huge deficits and the momentous task ahead, Alonso is adamant they will not give up on their season.

"We must try and win as numerous races as possible," he said during a visit to the Dolomites for Ferrari's Wrooom Summer 2011.

"We are sensible and the Championship situation is what it is, but we have seen so often that there can be sudden reversals.

"And after all, we are Ferrari and we have a ethical obligation, especially for the millions of fans spread around the world, to always think of the utmost goal.

"We can't ever say we will undertake eight races without having the Championship in the back of our mind: we will always have an eye on the title, at least until there is no longer the least chance.

"Of course we must start winning and we have to expect that Vettel makes a few mistakes or has some problems."

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Alonso: A great month for Ferrari

After a trying start to the Championship, which resulted in wholesale changes within the Scuderia, Ferrari and Alonso have come superior in recent races.

The Spaniard has bagged five podium finishes in six races and achieved his fourth consecutive top-three result in Hungary on Sunday afternoon.

Starting the race from fifth on the grid, Alonso made the most of the changing conditions to work his way up into third place, adding a further 15 points towards his title campaign.

"I think we are positive we can do a good second part of the Championship," he said. "The car has improved a lot, we are fighting for podiums, pole positions.

"July was a fantastic month. I am the driver who scored the most points in July, in three different conditions, at three dissimilar tracks. The team did a step onward and McLaren also did a good step forward so competition is quite fun.

"Unfortunately it was not very hot in July. We love high temperatures so expectantly August and September will be better for us."

As for Sunday's grand prix, the double World Champ will most likely wonder about what could have been had he not been bogged down at the start, losing places to both Mercedes GP drivers before coming up behind Mark Webber.

"I think in these type of conditions the race is very, very long - you need to be always paying attention with so many pitstops and so many weather conditions," he said.

"The start did not go as predicted, both Mercedes GP cars overtook us at the start, so I had to overtake Nico Rosberg and Michael Schumacher then with pit stops I was stuck at the back Webber.

"After that I was able to push with free air, and was quite quick, but for the first 20 laps we were after Mercedes and Mark."

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Webber to bring Vettel back to earth

Vettel has conquered all before him this season, winning six of the eight races thus far, a performance that has seen him open an 87-point gap on Webber and McLaren's Jenson Button.

Webber admits that the place he finds himself in is a strange one.

"It is astonishing to be a little bit disappointed sitting second in the Drivers' Championship," he told the Daily Mail.

"It almost certainly hasn't gone completely as I would have liked but it is a fine line isn't it?

"Seb is obviously on a phenomenal run, which has made it solid for all the rest of us. There is only one guy that is really wrapped with his period up to now and that is Seb."

Despite Vettel's superior showing, Webber is still confident of clipping the German's wings, starting at this weekend's British GP where Webber triumphed last time out.

"He (Vettel) can be caught," insisted the resolute Australian.

"But he can also go on a roll again after he is caught. For somebody to outscore him by 80 points will be a phenomenal effort. So you have got to keep boxing and hang in there. Someone has got to get on a roll with some victories themselves."

Webber's future at Red Bull has been the subject of much discussion, with the 34-year-old's contract failing at the end of the season and a host of drivers connected to his position.

However, he isn't too worried that he doesn't yet have a deal in place for next year.

"Red Bull have been great and they are very keen to keep me, no query about it," said Webber.

"We are talking but there is no real importance from both sides. Timing is critical in anything in life. At the moment I am still getting some great results and I'm very, very close to getting some extraordinary results again," he added.

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