Alfa Romeo Concept Pandion [Reviews]

After two years of absence from the international stage, Bertone, returned to the Geneva Motor Show, revealing the concept car Alfa Romeo Pandion: an aggressive yet beautiful coupe designed as a tribute to Alfa Romeo, "an anniversary one hundred years.

Alfa Romeo Concept Pandion: an extreme and controversial Bertone, the typical sports car fashion. The whole concept car (4620 mm long, 1971 mm wide, 1230 mm, 2850 mm wheelbase) is a compact sports car, the exterior dimensions of a great sense of sports car design interior, all powered by a 4.7 liter, 450 bhp 8 - cylinder Alfa Romeo engine.

Alfa Romeo concept Pandion is the first car produced by Mike Robinson in his new role as design and brand manager Bertone. "Dream Car" A pure concept of Pandion Alfa Romeo takes his rightful place as a member of the family stories Bertone Alfa Romeo cars have always been style icons, the influence of the history of Italian craftsmanship and quality car in excellent design, showing themselves as the undisputed benchmark in the world of automotive design.

The name comes from the animal world, as Pandion haliaetus is the scientific name of an osprey, a sea hawk nesting and living in coastal areas. The designers, led by Mike Robinson, was inspired by the wing of this predator to invent mechanisms spectacular opening of the door, and facial markings hawks project a sense of the traditional family in the new Alfa era of design.

In nearly a century of tradition Bertone is not the first time that the natural wonders that have inspired the name of concept cars. Just think of the Corvair Testudo (1963) and, coincidentally, the Alfa Romeo Babysitting (1964), Carabo (1968) and Delfino (1983).

Design: The original concept of

Muscular body Alfa Romeo Pandion Concept is the result of an original interpretation of the Alfa Romeo badge, where the man-eating snake photographed representing the attraction of style (what we call "skin") and the cross symbolizes the aristocratic the rigor of rational thinking, technological aspects (what we call "context"). Under this interpretation, the design of Alfa Romeo Concept Pandion, like any Alfa Romeo, a perfect synthesis of "skin and frame," an ideal balance as a result of a tension between opposites: the technology and sensuality, rationality and instinct, architecture and sculpture, structuralism and organicism, industry expertise and excellent craftsmanship.

Alfa Romeo Pandion design concept is based on the concept of Robinson called "Skin & Frame" - a new interpretation of the nature of duality, a 100 year old Alfa Romeo logo. "Skin" logo means the snake, which represents the famous Italian excellence in a beautiful, seductive forms, and the "frame" refers to the logo of the cross, which represents the mechanical excellence, high-performance Italian racing cars. The combination has become a dynamic line looking for the perfect balance between the tension between opposites: the technology, and sensuality, the rational and the emotional, the architectural layout and contoured shape, structure and organic excellence industrial and craft of excellence.

Under this interpretation, it is the vibrant energy of each Alfa Romeo represented by "the spinal structure (or" Pandion Framework ") that crosses the length of the car from the V-shaped radiator grille in the nose of the car bumper bumper V-shaped back of the car crosses inside a visual aesthetic that structural supports surrounding the shell (or "skin").

Design: The details of the average

Alfa Romeo Pandion forward concept has a long sculpted hood and the creation of what is pending, for all practical purposes, a mask, like the ancient warriors helmets. "Family Feeling" The Alfa Romeo, instantly recognizable at first glance, does not allow even a hint of nostalgia and retro look in the future with the elegance and revolutionary romanticism. There is no doubt that this is an Alfa Romeo with a look that has never been seen before. Alfa quad headlights typical depth in the outer edges of the grill and T-shaped, with emphasis on the reduction of wonder out of position. Four white bars of light strikes the curiosity of observers, two lights above and below the two lights, creating a virtual bi-plane of light at night. The five horizontal bars on each radiator grille typical Alfa Romeo rarely seen here, with reference to the historical identity of the brand.

The grid is filled with thousands of tiny leaves that contribute to the interlocking design of new algorithms in the car.

Alfa Romeo Concept Pandion is the profile of a true sports car, no room for compromise. The architectural design is "behind the cabin," which means that the cabin is located at the rear of the car and the long hood pushes the visual center of the car back. The side of the body visually connects the front sensual the razor sharp edges of the rear side window using a very long flowing arch that extends from the front wheel on the back, improving the accessibility of this great little sports coupe bodied. Since the sports cars are traditionally difficult to get in and out of, this important activity ergonomics has become easier with an extra large door to compensate for the low roofline. This new formula not only adds a graphical hit new visual division between the upper and lower body, but it also offers an incredible panoramic window for passengers inside.

The back has a surprising range of the crystal blades that are woven in various widths and lengths, projecting into space. Rear of the car is actually the body, or look "pixelated", he-of-the-comet metaphor, so to speak, the sheer speed of the vehicle is pulled, technical background "frame" back, away from the sensual, flowing "Skins" above. This phenomenon of "dematerialization" in the car has created a natural form of the business, which means that the car looks like you are moving, although it is still standing.

There are also two small solid white shields under the rear bumper that keeps the quad exhaust pipes, creating a visual continuity of the side panels that appear white wrap around under the car.

The rear lights are completely integrated into the fabric of organic leaf and disappear when turned off. The feeling is the new Alfa Romeo family once again visible in the rear of the car with the same V-shaped shield is in front of the vehicle traveling along the length of the body, forming a powerful Alfa Romeo virtual backbone.

Doors, like many other Bertone designed masterpieces (such as the Alfa Romeo 1968 carabot, 1970 Lancia Stratos 0, the Lamborghini Countach 1972 and 2007, the Fiat Barchetta), open a way of great visual impact. Almost hinged around the axis of the rear wheel, the Alfa Romeo Concept Pandion open doors by turning back, finishing with a perfect 90 degrees at the center of the rear wheel lifts the entire body side of the front fender and rear fender. When fully opened are more than 3.6 meters high. This is a great solution is designed primarily glamorous, bringing the factor 'wow' in the automotive industry banal today. This mechanism brings futuristic looks is also practical. Since all the "extreme" sports cars are literally impossible to enter and exit, the Alfa Romeo Concept Pandion is designed to take advantage of the horizontal space in the car because the vertical space is so limited.

If an accident that causes the 'roll over' the doors off of the car chassis, so that passengers can exit the car.

Interiors: Minimalist glam

The figures, which makes the spring Alfa Romeo Pandion Concept to life is the result of a design study to create an organic whole, without the use of shortcuts in order to ensure continuity between inside and outside A perfect balance between architectural rigor and spectacular forms of living organisms.

Body language is used to create the cab has resulted in a fluid environment, the equipment, which seem to grow spontaneously, without ever having been either designed or constructed. We have the name of this code is an expressive, never before seen in a car in the field to date, algorithmic design. The concept, which has taken the world of mathematics, says a biological alternative to the traditional design and is "the addition of random shapes." And 'as if the design would be the following types of complex development, which is not linear and geometric form to produce "self-organization" to "natural growth" algorithms such as "swarms" or "lives".

Looking at the interior of the Alfa Romeo concept of Pandion, the first things that attract attention are the front seats. Car design is typical of Alfa Romeo cutting, ie 2 +2. While the two rear seats are "blanks" classic, the two front seats are incredibly thin (30 mm), ergonomic chairs, chaise longue. They have a carbon fiber cover (mimicking the style of the car's exoskeleton or "skin") covered Technogel ® and backlit with light ® fabric that conforms to the shape of the body of the driver or passenger. The principle that has inspired the designers was "zero gravity", ie, a warm and welcoming, bringing a sense of quality of life, at first, but ... zero gravity.

In fact, all the furniture inside the cabin, all have a tendency to float visually break the magical blue light. Behind the minimalist choice, however, lies in the study of ergonomics: the seats are the result of a perfect synthesis of performance, flexibility and lightness. Clear the floor is illuminated in the same "pool blue" color of the place, which offers a splendid view of the continuing voluptuous seats, the 'boundary flows, where the driver and passenger can feel truly protected by a shell magic.

The steering wheel is clearly that of a sports car, while the controls are similar to those of Alfa Romeo racing cars, with two analog clocks placed directly on the steering column. Three of the four LCD screens offer a view into the cabin (two faces, one on the windshield) and that are directly connected to external video cameras replacing the mirrors is usually placed outside the car. The largest screen in the center (9 ") in the center console - and available to passengers and the driver - also displays information about vehicle systems (air conditioning, sound system, Sat Nav etc... ..)

The strong diagonal dark light division in the rear of the side view accentuates the powerful rear wheel drive configuration, and draws particular attention to the opening mechanism is hidden.

Alfa Romeo TZ3 Stroke

Atelier Zagaton informing the introduction of Alfa Romeo TZ3 the twelfth stroke of the Villa d'Este Concours d'Elegance.

Stroke TZ3 is to design a training session. It does not take inspiration from just 90 years of cooperation in two brands, not just what Milan between Alfa Romeo and Zagaton. TZ3 Corsa is a car racing, honoring 100 years of competitions, and useful throughout the twentieth century.

It celebrates the men and machines for the Alfa Romeo Zagaton a common tradition. Scuderia Ferrari is a 20-30, Alfa Corse, as well as 40 and 50, auto delta of 60 and 70 until the new Scuderia Zagaton 80 and 90.

Recalling the emotions of the race, the TZ3 Corsa chassis is based on a single tube of carbon fiber hull, with a tubular chassis and a lightweight aluminum body. Which has technical partners such as Pirelli and OMP.

The assets of the gentlemen Zagato driver, the car was commissioned by the Alfa Romeo Zagato collector Martin Kapp during Tribute to Zagato Zandvoort event where over 130 Alfa Romeo Zagato celebrated 90 years of the brand.

Martin Kapp owns, including his collection Alfa Romeo SZ Coda Coda Tonda and Tronca SZ, TZ and TZ2, Junior Z and SZ.

Alfa Romeo TZ3 Road

The Stradale Alfa Romeo Zagato TZ3 by chassis is based on the mechanics Viper ACR with carbon fiber body. "Bellezza Needed" is the inspiration for this car which corresponds to a first power train and the U.S. be the first American to Alfa Romeo.

Heritage Zagaton driver following gentlemen, the race has ordered Alfa Romeo TZ3 Zagaton collector Martin Kapp. The first Alfa Romeo TZ3 Road was presented in the U.S., and Alfa Romeo Zagaton collector (and Board of Directors of the Saratoga Automobile Museum of Directors), Eric King. TZ3 Road No 2 and 3 is delivered in Japan and Europe.

The Corsa and two TZ3 TZ3 offers typical Stradale Kamm-tail (K-line) design. This solution became famous in Italy with the "trunk Coda" the body that have been tested by Zagato in the early 60's. Peaked in the Alfa Romeo TZ and TZ2. Kamm effect is part of the functional design process, which aims to aerodynamic efficiency. According to this document, the CX can keep the volume down at once so compact. The reduction in wind resistance is provided by Kamm tail design, without a very tight "release" form of the tail.

2011-Alfa Romeo Giulietta [reviews]

After its world premiere of the 2010 Geneva Motor Show, the new Alfa Romeo debuted in May 2010 and gradually sold in all major markets, which is relaunching the brand in one of the most important segments in Europe.

The centennial year Alfa Romeo Giulietta was appointed a tribute to a car and an Alfa Romeo legend. In the fifties, took Alfa Romeo Giulietta the imagination of car enthusiasts around the world, making the dream of owning an Alfa Romeo and enjoy the high level of expertise and comfort techniques available for the first time.

Now, the Centro Stile Alfa Romeo has produced a new Alfa Romeo, five doors and clear the appearance of the Alfa Romeo and are able to express such is the most challenging agility and comfort for all day trips. This is a new compact platform that allows advanced technical solutions to serve the suspension, Dual Rack and pinion control active, sophisticated materials and manufacturing techniques used to implement, allows to get the Alfa Romeo Giulietta Exceptionally high standards as well as in terms of ship comfort and driving dynamics and safety (active and passive).

A new forum to improve the safety grip and agility, comfort and total

Alfa Romeo Giulietta introduces an entirely new platform - called Compact - designed to meet the most demanding customers in terms of grip, agility and safety. This provides both outstanding performance and comfort with dynamic solutions to sophisticated techniques used for the suspension, a new generation of operating system, a lightweight and rigid made of materials such as aluminum and high strength steel, and production techniques of avant-garde.

This new system allows the Alfa Romeo Giulietta meet the needs of all customers in this category, which combines the comfort of a train, functional interiors and generous boot capacity, where the dynamic properties, which include all the Alfa Romeo. In addition to driving pleasure and comfort can be customized to meet the needs of each client, thanks to the Alfa DNA switch, a device that measures the behavior of the vehicle under different road conditions and driving styles. A new forum for the Alfa Romeo Giulietta is designed to combine the in-car systems and exploit them fully, which emphasizes the establishment of the three functions (Dynamic, Normal and All Weather), through the Alfa DNA switch.

This device, installed by default on the full range of the new model is designed to change the operating parameters of the engine, gearbox, steering and electronic differential Q2, in addition to the system control logic for vehicle dynamic behavior (VDC).

Sporty and comfortable, Italian style

The perfect blend of sportiness and style, the Alfa Romeo Giulietta redefines the technology standards of the brand and the emotional values.

On the face of a new interpretation of a classic dish embedded in the front bumper and the break between the air intakes. This is the starting point for designing the entire car, which combines a strong personality clearly an elegant form. The headlights are LED daytime running lights and the light of day as a measure of active safety.

The profile of the Alfa Romeo Giulietta is full of personality, giving the impression of a car that is agile and strong. This is mainly due to the side windows to remember the look of a coupe, emphasized the dynamism and fluidity of form, thanks to the hidden door behind the handles. The ribs seem to stretch the sides of the vehicle in the car and clean lines that extend to the rear of the car shows the angular shape of the body.

The back, as the front and sides, the different aesthetic that focuses on the feeling of a muscle car, clinging to the road surface. Moreover, as headlights, tail lights also use innovative LED technology, not only for reasons of style, but also preventive safety.

Finally, measuring the amount of compact and dynamic shape of the new car for a very comfortable and spacious boot (350 liters): it is 4.35 meters long, 1.46 meters high and 1.80 meters wide , with a wheelbase of 2.63 meters.

Advanced features such as passenger comfort

The attention to detail and quality materials used in the interiors are now, as always, the most developed expression of Italian style. Specifically, the key concept in the interior of the new model is a lightweight. The lines are clean and the panel expands horizontally. The seats are comfortable and its shape is designed to provide maximum comfort during long trips.

Thanks to an advanced ergonomic design, each switch is in an ideal position: the most important are grouped in the center of the dashboard, and have the same model as the Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione.

The navigation system with pop-up screen allows drivers to check the safety of the route or the operating parameters established by the Alfa DNA mechanical device, without taking his eyes off the road.

There are practical open storage compartments located in different areas of the cab in front of the gearbox in the center console and door linings. There are storage compartments closed - depending on the version - at the top of the dashboard instrument panel facing the front passenger (cooled with dual zone climate control) and front and rear armrests.

Innovative engines for an exciting, eco-driving

Alfa Romeo Giulietta guarantees the highest performance and technology with a range of engines that are state-of-the-art technologies, levels of performance and environmental friendliness. Since its commercial launch, the four engines Turbo is available, all in accordance with Euro 5 and with Start & Stop system to reduce consumption and emissions are fitted as standard: two petrol versions (120 hp and 170 hp 1.4TB 1.4TB Multiair ) and two diesel engines (105 hp and 170 hp 1.6 JTDM 2.0 JTDM, both second generation Multijet engines). The range is complemented by high-performance 235 1750 TBi HP direct injection and control scan in combination with exclusive interior Quadrifoglio Verde.

This latest version has a-235-horsepower engine is perfectly TBI 1750 as Alfa Romeo, offers the best in this segment. Not only the means of transport, but a vehicle that really connects with the customer. There is a strong acceleration thanks to higher torque at low revs, smooth response minimizes the use of the gearbox is the characteristic species of modern gasoline engines, and the note of the engine, taking advantage of ever becoming intrusive. Detail, 1750 diesel Turbo offers advanced technological solutions, such as direct injection, variable valve timing continues, turbocharger and a revolutionary control system of cleaning, get rid of any turbo lag. The resulting performance is comparable to - or better - that for many 3-liter continue to produce the fuel consumption of a typical four-cylinder compact.

Note that the specific power of 134 hp / liter is the highest in the world in a 4-cylinder unit installed in this vehicle category, while the highest ever for a production of Alfa Romeo engines. The pair also specific for a total of 194 Nm / liter, the highest of all gasoline engines in this category, while the maximum torque of 340 Nm, is just 1,900 rpm, is excellent.

Our engines available to meet the needs of all customers. First, the 1.4 TB 120 bhp engine is ideal for those looking for a car that can handle city traffic with ease, while the lowest operating costs possible. Turbo engine ensures a fast response even at low rpm (peak torque is reached only 1750 cycles), when the Start & Stop, in the city, reduces fuel consumption and harmful emissions significantly without sacrificing the comfort and safety of ships .

1.4 TB 170 bhp engine Multiair is a combination of technology, which combines a high performance level of the lowest emissions and fuel consumption of petrol engines in its class with this power. This is an excellent and flexible engine with a generous maximum torque of 250 Nm (if set to Dynamic) with Start & Stop levels and fuel consumption and emissions more similar to diesel than petrol, this time with a power (4.6 l/100 km in the urban cycle and 134 g / km of CO2). The combination of this new engine platform for Alfa Romeo at the peak of the segment as well as its dynamic properties and comfort and practicality of everyday use.

The 105 bhp 1.6 JTDM diesel has a flexible and cost that will surprise customers because of its rapid response (in dynamic mode, max. Torque of 320 Nm at just 1,750 rpm generous), combined with very low fuel consumption (the extra-urban cycle is just 3.7 l/100 km). This is possible by combining the latest technology Multijet second and Start & Stop system. Therefore, an engine is dedicated to all those who seek a car with character and distinctive style, with the agility and handling typical of an Alfa Romeo is still able to combine these with limited operating costs.

Customers who use the car for the road more, or who require maximum performance levels of the diesel engine, the Alfa Romeo 2.0 JTDM offers 170 hp. Again, it is a combination of technology, technology that combines second generation Multijet Start & Stop system. The result is a performance of a vehicle in its segment, a very smooth driving (where the group selector DNA in Dynamic mode, the available torque at 1750 rpm is a generous 350 Nm), the lowest fuel consumption and emissions of its category for cars that power (124 g / km of CO2 and 4, 1 100 km in the extra-urban cycle). Thank you for the exceptional features of the new compact platform, this version is able to combine beautiful and dynamic driving performance, comfort and practicality in its class.

All engines are combined with a manual of the state of the art 6-speed, belonging to the family of three shaft that can withstand and transmit torque up high. Then the Multiair and 170 HP 2.0 JTDM engine is also associated with an innovative dual-clutch automatic.

Alfa Romeo 4C Concept-reviews

Alfa Romeo 4C concept made its debut at the 81st International Motor Show. This compact "supercar" that represents the true essence of a sports car, based on brand values: performance, Italian style and technical excellence for maximum driving pleasure with safety.

The new concept presented in the classic formula for a two-seater, rear wheel drive coupe, that engine in the middle, about 4 meters long and the pace is less than 2.4 meters, the size, which are used both to highlight the size compact car and the agility to highlight it. Distinguished by clean lines and graceful exterior, the same principles apply within the concept design for special trains to maintain the properties and equipment that directly reflect the car's sporting spirit.

And 'Concept Alfa Romeo 4C, technology and materials derived from the 8C Competizione to find a home - coal, aluminum, rear-wheel drive - and the technology of Alfa Romeo models currently on sale: 1750 turbo engine with gasoline direct injection gasoline, "Alfa TCT" dry dual-clutch transmission and the Alfa DNA switch dynamic.

Simply, this vehicle is the Alpha and screams. The soul of a sports car to create a unique driving experience, as well as road and when you compete with the speed and lateral acceleration of more demanding.

Born from the experience of the Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione and 8C Spider models, the new shares of its concept car with rear-wheel drive super exclusive cars, and philosophy based on achieving maximum driving pleasure and the legendary Alfa Romeo handling. It is a goal that the 8C Competizione and 8C Spider continuing mainly due to their increased power, while Alfa Romeo 4C Concept follows the route of a limited weight, made possible by the extensive use of coal, which is also a structural role and warrants outstanding agility with a weight / power ratio is less than 4 kg / hp. The frame supports a body made entirely from coal, in which there is room for driver and passenger, while the structure of the rear frame and crash box use aluminum extensively.

The end result is a significant reduction in weight, is limited to less than 850 kg, and optimize the center of gravity of the car, giving the advantage of flexibility and maneuverability in the most difficult routes.

The name "4C Concept" is evocative of the pleasure of sporty driving, as only the spectacular "4 cylinder" 1750 Turbo petrol engine that offers more than 200 hp can bring. Already presented a number of production models, such Quadrifoglio Verde Giulietta engine boasts advanced technical solutions, such as direct injection, dual continuously variable valve timing, turbocharged and revolutionary control system that eliminates turbo lag scan .

Located at the back center of the vehicle, the engine on the Alfa Romeo 4C concept guarantees a return that equals or exceeds that of a 3-liter engine, while still providing moderate fuel consumption, which is typical of a 4-cylinder compact. Along with the new automatic transmission "Alfa TCT" dual-clutch transmission dry, launched a few months ago and the MiTo will soon be available in the Giulietta, the powerful turbocharged petrol engine enables the 1750 Alfa Romeo 4C concept reach a top speed of over 250 km / h and accelerate from 0 to 100 km in less than 5 seconds. The car features Alfa DNA technology and a philosophy that brings together all the technology on board, so it is nice and customizable to the driver and further accentuating the "competitive" nature of the concept compared to other cars available today.

Alfa Romeo 4C concept is very sophisticated suspension layout (high wishbone front MacPherson strut rear) to ensure maximum agility and runnability. This solution, along with rear-wheel drive and the extra weight / power ratio, to ensure the pleasure of driving the Alfa Romeo, even better weight distribution (40% and 60% on the front, rear). Concept takes Brand sports tradition that brings us back to the start when agility and power / weight ratio was the key to a successful racing car, and combining these with the Alfa Romeo that sails on a daily basis.

This car is not just a styling exercise created for the Motor Show, it goes on sale in 2012 and is set to strengthen Alfa Romeo global growth.