Hummer HX Concept

HUMMER HX CONCEPT PROVIDES VISION OF A RUGGED, OPEN-AIR HUMMER

DETROIT – With its unmistakable HUMMER design and a compact, go-anywhere driving ethic, the HUMMER HX concept challenges the hierarchy of the trail. HUMMER displayed the nimble, reconfigurable off-roader at the 2008 North American International Auto Show.



More compact than a HUMMER H3 – 81 inches (2,057 mm) wide, with a 103-inch wheelbase (2,616-mm) – the HX concept is an open-air, two-door off-road vehicle that packs the off-road acumen for which HUMMER has become legendary, along with an easily convertible body that acclimates to varied trail conditions, cargo needs or passenger whims. Its design is based on the ideas developed by a trio of young designers who are new to the HUMMER studio.

"The HX is HUMMER's vision an agile, trail-ready, open-air vehicle that fits the lifestyles of everyone who needs or wants to drive off road," said Martin Walsh, HUMMER general manager. "Of course, it carries exceptional off-road capability and the distinctive styling for which all HUMMERs are known."

The HX offers an open-air driving experience via a pair of removable roof panels above the driver and front passenger, and a modular, removable rear roof assembly. With the roof panels and roof assembly removed, the HX is transformed into a true convertible.



Easy removal of the roof panels and rear-roof assembly enables quick conversion from a closed vehicle to an open one. The HX also was designed with several roof assemblies, allowing this versatile vehicle to be configured as an SUT (with the roof assembly removed), a stylish slant-back or a traditional, wagon-like design that offers a bit more cargo space.

The HX was shown with a slant-back configuration, wearing a desert-inspired matte olive paint scheme, at the North American International Auto Show. Additional convertible features include:

- Removable doors – easily removable pins in the exposed hinges allow the doors to be removed quickly – an appreciated feature of many serious off-roaders
- Removable fender flares – attached with quarter-turn quick-release fasteners, the composite fender flares can be quickly removed for additional trail/rock clearance, or if the flare is damaged during off-road driving

"The modular design of the roof and removable body panels mark an evolution of HUMMER's design aesthetic," said Carl Zipfel, director of design. "These features demonstrate a deeper understanding of enthusiast desires when it comes to off-road driving – and the slant-back design gives the HX a look all its own."



Purposeful exterior

The design of the HX was driven by input from three young designers who were new to GM and the HUMMER design studio. The HUMMER design challenge gave our newest designers an opportunity to sprint."

"The HX has an aggressive appearance and great proportions, with beauty lying in its functional austerity."

Classic HUMMER design cues make the HX instantly recognizable, including the round headlamps located in square housings, an upright windshield profile, minimal overhangs, hood vents and prominent air intakes. "The 'cut-off' circles suggest larger, heavy-duty components that were trimmed to fit the compact HX," said Rojas.

Aeronautically inspired interior

From aircraft-inspired seats to integrated, off-road-ready tools, the HUMMER HX's interior has a beauty that lies in its purposeful intent. "Aeronautical parts are designed to be both lightweight and strong, and that is the feeling exuded by the HX's cabin," said Stuart Norris, interior design manager. "The instrument panel is a styling element of the HX, and the removal of the top cover reveals a secondary design that enhances the vehicle's core design ethic," said Norris. A rubberized floor and ballistic nylon-material covering on the instrument panel and other interior components reinforces the functional aesthetic.



Seating and console details

Like aircraft seats, the HX's seats are constructed on a lightweight framework with minimal components that feature lightening holes and strength-enhancing cross braces or triangulations. The HX seats four, with a pair of bucket-type seats in the second row. The rear seats mimic the front seats' design and can be removed to generate more cargo room. The inner seat track on both front seats is located beneath the outer edges of a prominent center console.

Gauges and tools

The "cut-off circles" motif of the exterior is seen even more so on the HX's interior, as the gauge cluster, instrument panel vents and even the steering wheel carry the design element.

A three-element gauge cluster – each of the three instrument "pods" carries the cut-off circle design – delivers crucial driver information in either a highway or off-road mode. The off-road mode features of the instrument panel comprise the virtual tools of the HX, while others are mounted for physical use, including a folding shovel, flashlight and first-aid kit. They all carry the "clipped circle" design motif found throughout the vehicle.

Like all HUMMER production models, the HX has sturdy, body-on-frame construction, onto which is mounted front and rear independent suspensions.

The front suspension features an electronic-disconnecting stabilizer bar for enhanced maneuverability when driving off road, and the rear suspension is located with CNC-machined, billet trailing arms. Heavy-duty shocks with piggyback reservoirs were custom-made for the HX by renowned racing shock manufacturer Fox; one is mounted at each wheel position.

A full-time 4WD system pulls the HX over, through and around off-road obstacles.

World's Most Expensive Cars

World's Most Expensive Cars 2010-2011

What is the most expensive car in the world? The 1931 Bugatti Royale Kellner Coupe was sold for $8,700,000 in 1987. However, that car and many alike will not be included in this list because it is not available on the market today. It is hard to imagine someone would actually spend 8 million dollars on a car instead of using it for something more productive. However, if you have the money and the opportunity, you will definitely spend a small fraction of it to place a few of these supercars in your garage. Here are the 10 most expensive production cars on the market

1. Bugatti Veyron $1,700,000. This is by far the most expensive street legal car available on the market today. It is the fastest accelerating car reaching 0-60 in 2.6 seconds. It claims to be the fastest car with a top speed of 253 mph+. However, the title for the fastest car goes to the SSC Ultimate Aero which exceed 253 mph pushing this car to 2nd place for the fastest car



2. Lamborghini Reventon $1,600,000. The most powerful and the most expensive Lamborghini ever built is the second on the list. It takes 3.3 seconds to reach 60 mph and it has a top speed of 211 mph. Its rarity (limited to 20) and slick design are the reasons why it is so expensive and costly to own.



3. McLaren F1 $970,000. In 1994, the McLaren F1 was the fastest and most expensive car. Even though it was built 15 years ago, it has an unbelievable top speed of 240 mph and reaching 60 mph in 3.2 seconds. Even as of today, the McLaren F1 is still top on the list and it outperformed many other supercars



4. Ferrari Enzo $670,000. The most known supercar ever built. The Enzo has a top speed of 217 mph and reaching 60 mph in 3.4 seconds. Only 400 units were produced and it is currently being sold for over $1,000,000 at auctions



5. Pagani Zonda C12 F $667,321. Produced by a small independent company in Italy, the Pagani Zonda C12 F is the 5th fastest car in the world. It promises to delivery a top speed of 215 mph+ and it can reach 0-60 in 3.5 seconds



6. SSC Ultimate Aero $654,400. Don't let the price tag fool you, the 6th most expensive car is actually the fastest street legal car in the world with a top speed of 257 mph+ and reaching 0-60 in 2.7 seconds. This baby cost nearly half as much as the Bugatti Veyron, yet has enough power to top the most expensive car in a speed race. It is estimated that only 25 of this exact model will ever be produced.



7. Saleen S7 Twin Turbo $555,000. The first true American production certified supercar, this cowboy is also rank 3rd for the fastest car in the world. It has a top speed of 248 mph+ and it can reach 0-60 in 3.2 seconds. If you are a true American patriot, you can be proud to show off this car.



8. Koenigsegg CCX $545,568. Swedish made, the Koenigsegg is fighting hard to become the fastest car in the world. Currently, it is the 4th fastest car in the world with a top speed of 245 mph+, the car manufacture Koenigsegg is not giving up and will continue to try and produce the fastest car. Good luck with that




9. Mercedes Benz SLR McLaren Roadster $495,000. A GT supercar, the SLR McLaren is the fastest automatic transmission car in the world with a top speed of 206 mph+ and reaching 60 mph in 3.8 seconds. It is a luxurious convertible with a really powerful engine, which results in outstanding performances and style



10. Porsche Carrera GT $440,000. A supercar with dynamic stability control and a top speed of 205 mph+ and it can reach 0-60 in 3.9 seconds. The Porsche Carrera GT applies the absolute calibers of a true racing car to offer an unprecedented driving feeling on the road.

MAYBACH 62 Landaulet

Maybach 62 Laundaulet to Enter Production



In what is set to be the world's most expensive production drop-top, the Maybach 62 Landaulet is set to enter production sometime this year and will set you back a cool US$1.19 million for the base model.



Despite selling only 400 cars worldwide last year, the ultra-luxury car maker clearly believes the Landaulet model can overturn its fortunes by creating a niche market with an exclusive luxury car that features a large folding roof for passengers in the rear



The engineers at Maybach have removed the rear roof module in order to afford passengers an unobstructed view of the sky above. When closed, the black soft-top of the Landaulet rests on an integral tubular steel structure frame formed by the roof bows, and is wind and weather-proof

HUMMER H2 Black Chrome

2009 HUMMER H2 Black Chrome Limited Edition




The HUMMER marque's been having a torrid time recently with slumping sales figures in the US this year leading to a strategic review which saw the closure of four assembly plants



In a bid to overturn the sales slump, GM has released images of the upcoming limited edition H2 "Black Chrome" - the annual H2 special edition for 2009. With blacked out shadow chrome replacing the shiny chrome accents on regular models, the "Black Chrome" edition has a more mysterious 'stealth-like' feel to it. The new black chrome effect can be found on areas such as the grille, the fuel door and the SUV’s 21-inch wheels.



The Black Chrome Limited Edition will be available in three colors, but only the Sedona Metallic paint scheme (pictured) will be exclusive to the Black Chrome version of the H2, complete with matching interior. Only 1,300 units will be available worldwide

SSC Ultimate Aero

SSC Ultimate Aero

SSC Ultimate Aero specs
Top Speed: 273 mph / 439.5 km/h
0-60 mph: 3 seconds
Engine: Supercharged V-8 1046 HP

America no longer takes a backseat in the world of supercars. The 2006 SSC Ultimate Aero is the fastest American car on the road. Shelby Super Cars (SSC) has created the Ultimate Aero as direct competition to the new Bugatti Veyron. The Ultimate Aero is best known for its stability and endurance at speeds greater than 250 mph. In fact, it is estimated (in wind tunnel tests) that the supercar's top speed is closer to 273 mph



Exclusive and Record Breaking Speed
The Ultimate Aero is an exclusive automobile to own. Only twenty-five Aeros will be created throughout 2006 and 2007. There is not an exact breakdown, however, of the number of traditional Aeros and Ultimate Aeros in that number. The traditional Aero sports car is nothing to sneeze at with top speeds around 240 mph, but the SSC Ultimate Aero rules the road. In fact, in the Ultimate Aero broke the Road & Track slalom record formerly held by the Ferrari Enzo.



Distinctive Design
The Aero is designed with scissor doors, much like the Lamborghini and Ferrari sports cars. It also makes good use of carbon fiber and titanium. This keeps the overall weight of the Aero low to help with overall speed. Fast car Ultimate Aero has further modifications, including making almost all equipment optional, to further reduce weight. For example, the Ultimate Aero has no air conditioning or trunk space, but most would consider this a fair trade for the power the vehicle produces.



The Bottom Line
The SSC Ultimate Aero sports car is a premium example of American craftsmanship. Of course, supercars such as this come with a price tag capable of making a serious dent in your bottom line. The base Aero is available from around $240,000, while the Ultimate Aero is projected to reach a price closer to $650,000.

For those able to afford the ultimate in speed, no price is too high for such an exclusive and exotic machine. The rest of us will have to be content watching for the Ultimate Aero's performance on the International Show Circuit beginning in November, 2006.

Saleen S7 Twin Turbo

Saleen S7 Twin Turbo specs
Top Speed: 248 mph / 399 km/h
0-60 mph: 2.8 seconds
0-100 mph: 5.9 seconds
0 - 1/4 Mile: 10.7 secs. @ 136 mph
Engine: V8, 7-liter 750 HP Twin-Turbo

Saleen's S7 is America's first and up to date the only exotic supercar with mid-engine configuration. When in 2002 S7 went on sale, it was the only street-legal car in the United States that has more than 500 horse power output and 500 lb-ft of torque. S7 Twin-Turbo is the successor of the already legendary supercar S7. Like in any other true supercar, the doors of Saleen S7 Twin-Turbo open upward and away from the body. It features an even more powerful all-aluminum V8 engine, which produces 750 horse power @ 6300 rpm and 700 lb-ft of torque. Redline is at 6500 rpm. Acceleration from 0 to 200 mph (322 km/h) takes just 27 seconds. 2006 version of Saleen exotic car also has one unique interior feature - a video rear-view mirror. There actually is a small video camera mounted in the rear of this 2-door coupe, which transmits the view to the driver. The main idea here was not to use standard rear-view mirrors in favor of aerodynamics, thus reducing aero drag and increasing down force.

Pagani Zonda Tricolore

Pagani Zonda Tricolore specs
Top Speed: 220 mph
0-60 mph: 3.4 seconds
Engine: 7.3L mid-mounted V12 678 HP


2011 Pagani Zonda Tricolore takes on center stage on the occasion of the 50th anniversary celebration of the "Frecce Tricolori", Italy's world renowned national aerobatic team. The Zonda Tricolore is the fitting tribute to the demonstration team of Italian Air Force by this hyper-exotic Modenese automaker. While the regular Pagani Zonda takes the general configuration of a jet fighter, the latest special Zonda edition bears a color scheme commonly associated with the aeronauts, and these include the distinctive carbon fiber elements and the pairs of white, green and red flarings that run through its hood.

Ferrari may have foisted the name "Italia" in the new 458, but rival Pagani is taking a different tack, albeit equally significant, as it takes on the tag of "Frecce Tricolori" in what is expected to be the culmination of a series of Zonda editions that will pave the way for the entry of the new Pagani C9. Being the last entry from the Zonda line, the 2011 Pagani Zonda Tricolore is expected to be the epitome of all the great innovations that were started from earlier special Zonda editions. The Tricolore is developed from special composite carbon-titanium core material. Its dominant red, green and white stripes perfectly complement its dynamically designed fin air intakes.

The looks of the Tricolore gives the impression that it is designed for action above ground, which is definitely in stark contrast to what it was actually made for - a terrestrial speedster that easily reaches new highs in ground speed. The LED running lights of the Zonda Tricolore is another distinct element that will surely make heads turn as it zooms and attains top speed on the ground. Just like its airborne counterpart, experts metaphorically define the experience of driving a Zonda as "fast fly-high."

As a take-off from the overall design theme of the Zonda Cinques, the 2011 Pagani Zonda Tricolore also comes with a tub and body that is crafted from the distinctive weave of titanium and carbon elements. It is powered by the Mercedes Benz's 7.3L mid-mounted V12 engine which delivers 678 hp and is matched by 6-speed sequential transmission system that is designed and developed by Pagani. This allows the Zonda Tricolore to zoom to 62 mph in just 3.4 seconds and reach a top speed of 220 mph. If you are looking for speed, this speedster definitely gives you the rush.

In as far as production details are concerned, Pagani is only coming out with just one Zonda Tricolore, so expect that its price will also reach new highs. In fact, industry observers believe that the Zonda Tricolore will come down as the most expensive sports car that will ever be sold. This single unit Zonda model is expected to be sold at a whopping $1.75M.

In contrast to its predecessors, the 2011 Pagani Zonda Tricolore is not just about straight-line speed performance. It is also a dizzying speedster and reliable corner-hugger. Regardless at how you handle a bend and no matter what you do with the steering wheel and the pedals along the curved portion of the road, the Zonda brings you through with some extras to spare. If you are coming down the bend at break neck speed, you just step on the brakes, make the turn and you are ready to go in a split of a second.


More Pagani Cars:
Pagani Zonda F
Pagani Zonda C12 S


The Zonda Tricolore interior is classy in every sense of the word. If you have the urge to test the limits of its lateral performance and reliability, then you may try to be more daring and take her off its traction control. Drain the Zonda of all her speed juices in the middle of the sharp turn, and you will be surprised at how the Zonda easily settles into a controllable oversteer.

Mechanically, the Pagani Zonda Tricolore (2011) does not offer anything new or any enhancement that is not seen in its predecessors. The Tricolore is an ultra-wide rear wheel showstopper that boasts of an enhanced double wishbone suspension system, Brembo brakes and a powerhouse engine. The sportscar's high-precision handling goes back to weight, thrust and balance parameters. Everything is made possible by the adoption of carbon fiber construction of the Zonda Tricolore. This series-ending version of the Zonda is a full thousand pounds lighter than the Lamborghini Murcielago. Starting from its monocoque chassis down to its wiper mounts, the Zonda is definitely the rider's dream.

While the Pagani Zonda Tricolore may not tip the scales the way Enzo enthralls and beguiles sports car connoisseurs, its pod-like interior design score big points in terms of comfort, cutting off its close competitors in this aspect including the Porsche Carrera GT and the Mercedes SLR. The cabin bears the finely-stitched leather and elegantly-woven carbon fiber with matching topnotch ergonomics. For the more discriminating souls, there are elements in the Zonda that may seem to appear a bit off tangent. These include the toggle switches which are seen to be out of proportion to the rest of the control switches and the ventilation periscope that is mounted on the dashboard, which appear to be made more for practicality than aesthetics. On the overall though, the Zonda cockpit is still the best place to be for those in need of some adrenaline rush.

For those who can see a masterful creation when they see one, this supercar is over-the-top. When it comes to quality, the Pagani Zonda Tricolore (2011) is unsurpassed in every sense of the word. Its fiery character brings forth an excitement from a supercar that seems to fly high every time it takes on the road. When it comes to perfect fit and elegant finish, it is definitely second to none.

Though Pagani is not inclined to provide us with the fuel consumption variables of the Zonda Tricolore, you must expect that we are going for gallons of fuel per mile. Then again, if you are ready to be blown by millions of dollars to get behind the wheel of the Tricolore, the extra fuels bills is something you can dismiss as trivial.

Pagani Zonda F

Pagani Zonda F specs
Top Speed: 214 mph / 345 kph
0-60 mph: 3.6 seconds
Engine: AMG 4 valve V-12 7.3 liter

One of the fastest supercars that ever was, Pagani Zonda F is a winner from the stable of famed Italian sports car manufacturer, Pagani. The mind-blowing finish and fit is made possible due to the modern carbon fiber construction which has been Pagani's forte in supercars for a long time now. The superior styling of the Pagani Zonda F sports car means that it is real competition to its counterparts manufactured by other leading automobile giants such as Ferrari and Porsche.

The Pagani Zonda F is a special edition car that takes on the modifications of another sports car from the home of Pagani, the C12-S Monza. The entire packaging though is vastly superior and the packaging more appealing. The result is a more powerful and yet lighter supercar that incorporates the best of technology and styling. The secret of the incredible speed of this fast car lies in its aerodynamic design. Every minute aspect in the design has been done with aerodynamics in mind. Even the relocated mirrors are a good example for attention to detail. The windows are placed in such a manner so to as to facilitate undisturbed flow of air. The rear diffuser and the large front splitter means that the stabilizing 'wings' on the sports car create a powerful down force. This enables this fast car to be so stable even at high speeds. The use of cutting–edge technology is evident when it comes to the braking system of the sports car. The low center of gravity and flat design of the car is designed in such a manner that the supercar comes to a screeching halt even when traveling at high speeds.



The Pagani Zonda F sports car zooms from 0 to 60 mph in a matter of 3.6 seconds. This amazing sports car is designed to achieve a top speed of 214 mph / 345 kph. All the amazing power inside the Zonda F is generated from the potent Mercedes–Benz V 12 engine. The 7.3 liter engine is capable of generating a whopping 620 bhp of pulsating power. There is also a 'club sport' version of the Pagani Zonda F sports car which is available. This model comes allows for 650 bhp. The larger brakes in this fast car means instant braking whether on the highways or inside the city. The wheels come with the latest titanium wheel nuts. This apart you can also find that most of the trimmings in the supercar are made up of carbon fiber. All these specifications reduce the weight of the sports car substantially. The car weighs around 1,230 kilograms (2,712 lbs) with an empty fuel tank.

More Pagani Cars:
Pagani Zonda Tricolore
Pagani Zonda C12 S

The chrome-molybdenum alloy and other aluminum alloys used in the sports car make for the superior styling that is on offer. The upholstery features selected leathers. Fine craftsmanship has gone into making this racing car light, luxurious and fast. Once you tweak the keys and the engine comes alive, you will feel that the Pagani Zonda F sports car literally slices through the air. Apart from the speed, care has been taken to incorporate the latest safety features in the fast car. The user-friendly instrumental panel, which is ergonomically designed and placed, is one good example for the attention to details. Yet another good example for this aspect would be the 'Nardi' steering wheel. Anyone driving this car will feel as though his/her hands are directly in contact with the surface with this steering system. A fantastic combination of aesthetics and power is what you get with a Pagani Zonda F.

Maserati MC12 Corsa

Maserati MC12 Corsa specs
Top Speed: 202 mph / 326 km/h
Engine: V12 6.0 liter 756 HP

Maserati MC12 Corsa supercar is a new $1,7 million (1,3 million euro) track-only version of the World Championship winner road legal Maserati MC12. This could as well be called Maserati's version of the Ferrari FXX. Corsa is powered by its V12 6.0 liter engine that is capable of producing 756 horse power (564 kW). It will be sold only to the most valued customers of Maserati who will be restricted to driving this fancy exotic car on private tracks, because Corsa isn't a road legal car. Total production of the Italian supercar MC12 Corsa will be limited to 12 units worldwide making it a true collectible limited edition gem.


More Maserati Cars:
Maserati MC12

Maserati MC12

Maserati MC12 specs
Top Speed: 205 mph / 330 km/h
0-60 mph: 3.8 seconds
Engine: 6-liter V12

Now owned by it's once most fiercefull rival Ferrari, Maserati made MC12, a two door coupe sports car which is designed first and foremost to annihilate its competition on the racing track in FIA GT Championship. While MC12's design is slightly related to the famous Ferrari Enzo, it is a truly respectable competitor not only to Lamborghini or Porsche supercars, but to Ferrari's own power beasts.
MC12 has a V12 engine that was down-tuned from the supercar Ferrari Enzo 660 PS to 630 PS (at 7000 rpm). However it remains a DOHC with 65 degree with four valves per cylinder.



MC12´ gearbox is also identical to the one used in Ferrari Enzo sports car, it´s Ferrari´s six-speed manual gear shifting box with paddles behind the steering wheel for quick and easy access.
Only 25 models of fast car MC12 were built in 2004 and another 25 in year 2005. Only the luckiest sports car and supercar collecting enthusiasts were able to obtain themselves one of these exotic car beauties.

More Maserati Cars:
Maserati MC12 Corsa