The XC90 V8: A Purebred Performer with Its Supercharged Volvo Performance PartsWritten by Jenny McLane
Volvo has achieved many environmental milestones over years. The ULEV-II certified low emission vehicles including XC90 V8 is another testimony to its commitment to environment. The production Volvo XC90 V8 has makings of purebred performer. With 311 horsepower and 325 ft.-lb. or torque at a low 3,900 rpm Volvo XC90 stresses its position as one of most successful SUV models in premium segment.The new V8 engine marks a new turning point in Volvo Cars' history. Since 1927, it is first V8 company has produced and Volvo XC90 is first model to be powered by new engine. One absolute requirement for new V8 engine was that it had to be installed transversely in engine compartment, just like all other Volvo engines. A transverse engine is helpful in maintaining frontal crumple zones in XC90 and thus not compromise on protective safety," says Hans Wikman. For this reason, extremely compact external dimensions were essential for new engine. This also explains choice of just 60 degrees between two banks of cylinders -- as opposed to more conventional 90 degrees. The XC90 V8 has an estimated 600 horsepower with use of a massive supercharger, revised engine mapping and low restriction exhaust. That power is routed through Volvo's Haldex electronically controlled all-wheel-drive system. The system is "pre-charged" which means that power may be instantly routed to wheel with most traction. A new 6-speed automatic "Geartonic" transmission rounds out driveline. Volvo C90 V8 engine has compact dimensions and weighs just 418 pounds, which is necessary for low fuel consumption. It has ultra high performance alloy wheels, ultra deep front air dam, small, high intensity fog lamps, and custom fabricated wheel arches, 13-inch floating rear brakes, shod with 4-piston calipers. 15-inch floating discs with 8-piston calipers handle brake duty up front.
| | Replacement Parts for the Mercedes Benz S Class Hybrid SedanWritten by Jenny Mc Lane
The combination of electric drive with 7G-Tronic automatic transmission ensures that S-Class "Hybrid" constantly operates at optimum level. "This reduces fuel consumption by 15 to 25 percent depending on driving cycle, while at same time enhancing comfort," says Prof. Herbert Kohler, Head of Vehicle Body and Drive Systems Directorate at DaimlerChrysler AG.Combining a V8 diesel engine with latest generation of hybrid drive systems developed jointly by DaimlerChrysler and General Motors, Mercedes Benz introduces S Class Hybrid, which unlike many conventional hybrids, system dispenses with a torque converter; this is replaced by hybrid-specific components. The hybrid concept is based on 7G-Tronic automatic transmission in combination with P1/2 hybrid transmission, which thanks to its compact dimensions does not restrict interior space. "The use of 7G-Tronic automatic transmission makes for a comfort level that is unique in world of hybrids," emphasized Weber. "Shifting is even faster and more convenient in continuously variable mode." Setting a new record for cars with hybrid drive system, S Class has a maximum output of 340 horsepower. The two electric motors have a combined output of 70 horsepower. The diesel can be started at any time without transition, independently of driving mode. The V8 diesel engine recharges battery while vehicle is in motion while energy is recovered during braking. The hybrid concept is based on 7G-Tronic automatic transmission in combination with P1/2 hybrid transmission, which thanks to its compact dimensions does not restrict interior space. The system dispenses with a torque converter; this is replaced by hybrid-specific components.
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