High performhttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gifance electric vehicle trial

A consortium made up of specialist UK vehicle manufacturers, a green consultancy and an eco-friendly vehicle rental company has just launched a new project to road test 14 high performance electric vehicles (EV) for the next 12 months. Every aspect of performance will be closely monitored as the drivers taking part in the EEMS Accelerate project put the vehicles through the same kind of dynamic driving conditions encountered by users of regular road cars. The gathered data is to be published and used by government officials to help boost green transport manufacture in the UK.

Toyota GRMN Sports Concept II

Toyota will continue the growing trend among auto makers of announcing new models and concept cars at places other than auto shows by unveiling the GRMN Sports Concept II at the Nürburgring 24-hour race this weekend. The GRMN is a lightweight, petrol-electric hybrid convertible with 295 bhp. The 245 bhp V6 is located centrally and drives the rear wheels while the front wheels are electrically-powered to complete the sports-hybrid AWD system.

Aston Martin Virage Volante Car best photos

Aston Martin introduces the new Aston Martin Virage – supremely elegant and powerful, yet juxtaposed as an understated sports car. The marque can now provide customers with a class-leading range, all with different characters, yet with the same unique Aston Martin soul and luxury.

Beautiful, dynamic and prestigious, the Aston Martin Virage combines outright sports car performance with luxury, comfort and refinement. The front mid-mounted V12 engine’s torque delivery provides outstanding performance, coupled with the car’s inherent agility and perfect weight distribution delivering the ideal balance between outright sports car performance and trademark sporting luxury exemplified by modern Aston Martins.

The Aston Martin Virage sits between the enduringly elegant DB9 and overtly sporting DBS, providing customers with a car that remains luxurious and understated but delivers increased performance and crucially performance that is always accessible for effortless driving.

Aston Martin’s revered hand-built 6.0 litre V12 engine produces 490 bhp (365 kW/497 PS) and 570 nM (420 lb. Ft) of torque and through its carbon fibre prop shaft, is mated to a six-speed Touchtronic II automatic transmission mounted on the transaxle contributing to perfect 50:50 weight balance.