Ultra Luxury Cars | Chrysler Gives Its Okay To The Imperial

A venerable name in autodom is being resurrected and it will soon grace the body of a large, rear wheel drive luxury car. After a successful "concept car" debut at a pair of recent auto shows, the Chrysler Imperial will be built and should be in U.S. showrooms in 2010. Yes, it will be a long wait for the Imperial's return but the car must first await additional changes within DaimlerChrysler before it can be built. Read on to learn more about the Imperial's impending return.

The Chrysler Imperial that has been currently making the rounds at various auto shows has been well received. Visitors have remarked favorably about the car's Bentley like look as well as its cavernous interior and luxury appointments. Currently, the brand has nothing larger or more luxurious to offer buyers who might want to upgrade from the 300C, thus Chrysler has been regularly losing buyers to more luxurious brands, something parent DaimlerChrysler [DCX] wants to stem.

The Imperial name can be traced all the way back to 1926 when Walter P. Chrysler decided to take on Lincoln and Packard with a luxury model all of its own. From its inception, the Imperial has always represented the top of the line vehicle for Chrysler and it has, at various times, been marketed as its own make. Various versions of the Imperial have shown up over the years, with most of them being ultra luxurious versions of Chrysler's New Yorker model.

The 2011 Chrysler Imperial will be similar in design to the concept car, but without the suicide doors. Chrysler put the special doors on the concept car in order to make it easier for auto show visitors to see inside the vehicle. Still, reports from the company are indicating that the 22 inch wheels, Bentley grille, boxy body, and leather/wood trim would be included. Prices for the Imperial will not be announced for several more years, but it could retail for as high as $60,000 according to some reports. Currently, the top of the line 300C maxes out at around $42,000.

So, why the hold up? Well, for one thing the Imperial program will be an added expense for DCX. Currently, the company is in the process of making its Mercedes line up more profitable and that involves the expense of updating several models. Based on the Mercedes "R Class" body, the coming Imperial is likely to be built on an updated version of the R Class platform. Both cars would arrive in dealer showrooms at the same time as 2011 models, hence the long lead time.

The Imperial concept sits on a frame with a 123 inch wheelbase. The car measures 214 long, much longer than the 300C. Reports are indicating that the concept car dimensions are likely to be retained.

For Chrysler fans, the Imperial represents further strengthening of the Chrysler-Mercedes relationship. By using a Mercedes platform, the Imperial can be built and will give Chrysler a much needed product. With a standard V8 mated to a five or six speed automatic the car will certainly not be on the fuel efficient side. However, my best guess is that the car will also come optionally equipped with a thrifty Mercedes built turbo diesel, a first for any Chrysler car.

Copyright 2006 - Matt Keegan is The Auto Writer covering topics from automotive trends to car insurance information. Please visit his car blog for the latest automotive news and trends.

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Ultra Luxury Cars | The Audi Cross Coupe Quattro - A Power SUV

Audi, luxury unit of Volkswagen and recipient of quality VW auto part like VW serpentine belt, has presented last week at the Shanghai Motor Show a study that defines a new segment in the field of crossover vehicles. The Audi Cross Coupe Quattro combines the design and dynamism of a compact premium sports car with the comfort and versatility of a four-seat sport utility vehicle or SUV.

The Cross Coupe Quattro will be used as the basis for models that will go into production and will arrive in 2010 to challenge dominating brands like BMW's X3 and others. Audi also claimed that the new Cross Coupe will offer new ways of achieving efficiency, innovative technical solutions, driving comfort and pleasure and everything that is typical of an Audi. The visual appearance of the new Audi Cross Coupe clearly tells how capable this car is on all roads whatever the condition may be.

The silhouette is typically Audi including the design of the study which was painted in Liquid Silver is more of a reminiscent of the sporty models produced by the Ingolstadt brand. The proportions as well as the large 20" wheels point clearly show the off-road potentials of the Cross Coupe Quattro. There is a new element that can be found on the Coupe Quattro and it's in the form of the fabric folding roof which when opened provides optimum levels of headroom and fresh air. In addition the hood is also electrically operated.

And speaking of new, the diagonally installed four-cylinder inline TDI engine is newly developed with common-rail fuel injection and piezo injectors. The TDI engine revs up 204 bhp and 400 Nm of torque, this power gives the vehicle a sporty performance and an amazing degree of efficiency. On the average the ultra-modern 2.0 TDI needs just 5.9 liters of diesel per 100 km.

The Cross Coupe's diesel particulate filter and Bluetec system help reduce soot and controls the harmful nitric oxide emissions. If there's one thing that the Cross Coupe can be proud of it's the fact that it satisfies the emissions standards of the future.

The Cross Coupe is also equipped with what Audi refers to as numerous electronic systems to support the driver. The Audi drive select system enables the driver to select three highly individual configurations for the engine, steering, gearbox and adaptive shock absorbers resulting to the car's flexibility.

Aside from the standard "dynamic" drive select mode and the "sport "setting, the Audi Cross Coupe is also equipped with the "efficiency" driving program. This program modifies the engine map and shift points to enhance driving efficiency resulting to a greater fuel economy. The system also deactivates the components that are considered as energy-hungry like for instance air conditioning compressor and others.

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Benjamin Hudson works as a supervisor at one of the top engineering firms in the business district of Louisiana. He is also a freelance journalist and has passion for anything automotive.

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Ultra Luxury Cars | Infiniti Unveils the 2011 M

Audiences at the Concours d'Elegance in Pebble Beach were the first to get a glimpse at the new 2011 Infiniti M...sort of. Infiniti showcased the 3rd generation of their renowned M series in a virtual format by projecting images onto a blank foam model, creating a state-of-the-art presentation for these state-of-the-art vehicles.

The 2011 M37 will feature a 3.7-liter V6 VVEL engine and the 2011 M56 will knock your socks off with a 400 horsepower 5.6-liter V8 engine. Both vehicles have more powerful, larger displacement engines but have also been designed to reduce fuel consumption. The result is increased acceleration and a more fluid feeling of performance.

Infiniti engineers further enhanced the M with a blind spot intervention system. This revolutionary technology assists the driver by sending a warning if another vehicle is too close then helps the driver to navigate back into the original lane.

The body has been completely re-crafted with more dramatic rounded styling and more pronounced detail. The lines are sleek, smooth and appear to be in motion even when sitting still. The classic elegance of the new M is already being compared to the likes of Jaguar and Rolls Royce. The interior is equally beautiful with hand-crafted silver powdered wood accents and custom leather seats. An advanced climate control system and extraordinary audio components complete the ultra luxurious experience.

The 2011 Infiniti M37 and M56 will be the first to be sold across all of Infiniti's 32 markets around the world, including Western Europe, and are scheduled to arrive at dealerships spring 2010.

See some great pictures and get some information on the New Infiniti M at San Jose Infiniti Dealer.

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Ultra Luxury Cars | New Lexus Compact Planned to Rival the BMW 1 Series

Later this month, at the Frankfurt Motor Show, Lexus will unveil their new compact model to rival the BMW 1 Series and Audi A3. The premium Japanese car maker does not currently have a compact hatch model and is launching its new 'baby Lexus' to take the market head-on. The new model is based on their LF-Ch concept car, and Lexus aim to have the car on sale by 2010.

The new car will be capable of running in full EV mode (electric vehicle), but conventional petrol and diesel engine versions are also expected to be available. Lexus has released a single image of the car, but more details are expected to be revealed soon. The sleek lines and curves of the concept car make it look very futuristic and sporty, but hopefully the car will be practical as well as good-looking.

Lexus, like many car brands, has suffered in recent months, with luxury cars seemingly forgotten in the recession. Even the successful scrappage scheme, launched in May, has not really helped boost sales, as consumers shun luxury models in preference of small super minis. Lexus is hoping to enter the small car market with this new model which will act as an entry-level luxury model, appealing to the empty-nester market who may require a smaller car, or traditional luxury car buyers who are now on fixed incomes. There are around 50 UK dealerships that specialise in Lexus. Dorset, Oxford, Manchester and Newcastle are just some of the locations in the UK.

Lucy Penn is an online marketer and researcher who is currently researching Lexus dealers in Dorset.

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Ultra Luxury Cars | The 2010 Bentley Mulsanne

The classic appeals of the first Bentley cars come with an even more powerful motoring at the creation of the 2010 Bentley Mulsanne. Designed as a grand tourist car, it is the new flagship vehicle of the luxury line automaker. And what can be said about performance? Its engineers put our expectations forward to an effortless performance of an energy efficient and fuel conserving technology.

Named after the highly esteemed curve and straight of Le Mans 24 Hours where the racing cars push the limits of their speed to the maximum, the Mulsanne will take a smooth and speedy roll in the streets. In the words of Chairman and Chief Executive Dr Franz-Josef Paefgen: "The challenge we set our engineers was to create a grand new Bentley that would stand as the pinnacle of British luxury motoring, offering the world's most exclusive driving experience. They have responded to this challenge with real passion, and the result is a luxury grand tourer that sets new standards in terms of comfort, effortless performance and handcrafted refinement - the very qualities for which Bentley is renowned."

The Mulsanne will go on sale from mid 2010 but after marking its highly anticipated debut at Pebble Beach Concours D'Elegance in California, the first unit was straight off to the auction block and was sold at a half-million mark to an undisclosed bidder over the phone. The price of the auctioned car almost swung down to $300K from the starting bid of $500K simply because Bentley remains tight-lipped about the many other features of the car, which are usually of interest to collectors. There is little detail about the car available for Bentley fans and followers.

A full-size luxury, it is roomy and definitely embodies the precision of handcrafted artistry. In the eyes of its originators, it holds the passion of the artisan, devoting one of the ever-sought-for resources in the world if only to achieve the perfected built of the concept drawn in their minds: TIME. Despite of its volume, it carries a refined look, making it a comfortable luxury passenger carrier.

There is little that we know as of this time about the many other details which are of interest to most buyers. But with six victories at the 24 Hours of Le Mans throughout their years of racing, it will be the iconic 6.75 L V8 for this all-new Mulsanne designed entirely by Bentley. The car is equipped with a light but potent V8 engine. The 2010 Bentley Mulsanne integrates modern technologies into its system for reduced vibration and noise, which should clear the AC Condenser and the rest of the components of the air conditioning system from being supposed the culprit of the noise when the AC is turned on and running. If for one thing, this distinctly serene exhaust sound buys the V8 engine its popularity for high performance autos and racecars. This also makes it is perfect for the speedy luxury tourist car which in Bentley language is "made by individuals for individuals" with great attention to the details of its quality.

A management trainee, the adventurous car quests of Colleen Hensley was wielded thru her auto mechanic father whose greatest delight is mentoring her with stuffs like the Engine, Exhaust, AC Condenser, and the like.

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Ultra Luxury Cars | 2010 Ford Focus Review - Out of the Box Thinking Done Right by Ford

Ford has done things a little differently with the new Focus, especially the four-door sedan model. It launched the Focus range at the Paris Motor Show in late September last year, but the prototype Focus Concept, a thinly disguised Focus sedan, was actually revealed three months earlier in June at the Beijing Motor Show.

Why would Ford showcase its best-selling European model in Asia before its world premier in Europe? Perhaps it is because, unlike the previous Focus, the new one - especially this saloon version - is targeted at the Asian markets.

The first thing one notice about the sedan is that it looks well-proportioned and neat, unlike the last model, which looked like it had its boot grafted on as an afterthought. What has also helped is that the new Focus has leaner and more elegant lines and these lend themselves better to a four-door sedan than the aggressively bold styling of the previous model. From the rear three quarters, the Focus sedan comes across as crisp and discreet, with triangular rear lamps that make it look like a scaled-down Mondeo, an important point in status-conscious Asian markets.

The last Focus set a benchmark in its class, and the new sedan has been developed to expand the Focus' reach even beyond its better-known three-and five-door siblings, even if the cabin space is the same as offered by the five-door hatchback, boot aside. It's also interesting to note that apart from the Renault Megane sedan, the Focus is the only other European engineered and built 1.6-litre car in the market.

One thing that remains unchanged is that Ford has not forgotten to give the new Focus an impressive list of technical features. Even on the entry-level 'Trend' spec, four-wheel disc brakes with a sophisticated Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) are standard equipment. More commonly found on large, high-performance cars, an ESP system acts like a co-pilot, monitoring the traction at each wheel, either braking or cutting power to should the vehicle begin to lose composure or grip. While the Focus' chassis set-up is inherently impressive and allows the car to handle beautifully, it is reassuring to know that the car is actually intelligent enough to Intervene should its road holding limit* be reached. On the other hand, 11 rivers who want to pretend to be Mr Colin McRae, slipping and sliding on loose gravel, there is the option of switching the ESP off.

The other high-tech feature on the new Focus is the three-mode automatic gearbox. On the face of it, this might seem outmoded - after all, the latest auto boxes have intelligent adaptive programmes that 'learn' driving patterns, negating the need for the driver to choose between 'economy' or 'power' modes. That being said, no matter how clever a transmission is, it doesn't read minds, and can only react to, and not predict situations. Ford has partially solved this problem by allowing the driver to select from three programmed modes: adaptive, sport or economy. True to their titles, the transmission behaves differently in each mode, with 'economy' making the car feel under powered because it changes up at the earliest opportunity and is reluctant to change down when the accelerator is floored.

Instead of buttons next to the transmission gate, switching transmission modes is performed through the left stalk on the steering column. This stalk also manipulates the trip computer and there is even a thumb wheel to scroll through the different readouts on the instrument binnacle. While it is impressive that so much information is handled through a single input device, it does take some time to fully comprehend and use this one-stalk computer mouse.

In fact, this multi-functional stalk best sums up the new Focus. As with the previous model, it is well-engineered and entertaining to drive, but the new model comes fully-loaded with the latest technical equipment to once again raise the bar in the family car segment. On the other hand, most of these goodies are largely invisible, and while they are tangible, they are also unseen. In 'Trend' trim, this is particularly obvious, as being the price-leader, it appears well-built but quite spartan, and does not have the bells and whistles that come with the Ghia trim. At the moment, only the five-door hatchback is offered in Ghia trim, with the sedan version only available later in the year.

This means the Focus' success in Asia is still not the fait accompli as Ford had planned, crisp styling notwithstanding. The sedan looks better than it ever did, but in Trend trim, it does not feel luxurious nor as well-appointed as some of its rivals.

Get behind the wheel though, and one will be impressed with the Focus' engine, chassis and overall ability. The problem is, there is already a good looking, 1.6-litre family sedan that drives and handles well, replete with the Focus' impressive chassis and suspension set-up - it's the Mazda 3. How ironic that the car that probably poses the greatest challenge to the Focus sedan is from Mazda, a company that Ford also owns.

Kenji Alexis has been writing car reviews in the automotive industry for close to a decade. Come visit his latest website over at http://www.motorstop.asia to check out the in depth Honda cars reviews and all the latest automotive news.

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Ultra Luxury Cars | 7 Seater Cars - Enter Audi Q7

There have been many big players in the 7 seater cars section and there are already numerous cars in the market that fall in the category of 7 seater suv and 7 seater cars as such. In 2006 Audi decided to enter this arena with the launch of its first ever 7 seater car; the Audi Q7, which happens to be a crossover luxurious SUV during the Auto Show in Los Angeles and it is built on the famous Volkswagen Group PL71 platform. Presently the latest version of the Audi Q series happens to be the Audi Q5. Q5 was recently showcased in 2010. The SUVs are supposed to be importantly for the off road travels, but it seems based on the Audi's concept car, the Pikes Peak Quattro; Audi has designed the Q7 keeping in mind the on road features than the off road ones. Even though the Audi Q7 features the four wheel drive system coupled with the CDL (central differential lock), and the air suspension system whose height is adjustable, it is unable to compete the cars in the SUV segment which are manufactured mainly for the off-road purposes.

Safety Features Kept Safe

Audi has introduced a new level of safety in its Q7 car. Among all other 7 seater cars out there, it seems no other car is able to beat Audi's Q7 safety features. In America, NHTSA rated a total of 5 out of 5 for side and front impact tests in fourteen categories. And it has to be that way, because Audi Q7 features Electronic Stability Programme and variety of safety electronics combined with the numerous airbags to protect the passengers. Although in America this car received good ratings, in Europe, the NCAP rated 4 out of 5 for safety, and Audi claims that it was a design error which has been fixed in the later car releases. Many other tests have been conducted on Audi Q7 and the testers have found that Audi has implemented many innovative ways to protect the passengers sitting within.

Q7 Variants for North America

North America got a good set of Q7 variants to drive. The first one was the Audi Q7 hybrid which is basically a hybrid car that is built upon the Q7 and features an electric motor along with a 4.2 FSI engine; which is able to output a torque of more than 200Nm. This particular hybrid is powered by a battery of Nickel-Metal Hydride and this system pushes the car to an acceleration of 0 to 100 km per hour within 6.8 seconds. But this hybrid is comparatively heavier when compared to the petrol version of the Q7. Audi has actually announced that it would be rolling out even more hybrids but the number would be limited. As of now, Audi seems to be focussed on development of Q5 hybrids that will feature the Lithium-Ion battery.

Audi Q7 has quickly gained its reputation among other 7 seater cars in the present market.

Seven Seater cars are a great way to pack your family and take them for trip. If you are planning on buying a 7 seater Audi; do consider visiting our site.

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Ultra Luxury Cars | Jaguar Reinvents XJ220 As Stunning New R8 Beater

Exciting news for Jaguar fans this week, as Britain's Auto Express magazine revealed that the company is planning to reinvent the legendary XJ220. The magazine, well-regarded for its new car scoops, claims a dramatic new mid-engined sports car is being developed by Jaguar as a rival to the Audi R8.

While the concept is denied by Jaguar, the magazine claims that the car will make its debut at a major international motor show within the next 18 months - indicating that plans must already be well advanced. In a nod to the marque's iconic E-Type, the two-seater is tipped to be badged the XE, heralding a return to a more raw, sporting side of Jaguar's heritage.

However this isn't the first Jaguar concept thought to be set for the badge. Last year it was speculated that it would adorn a Porsche Boxster-rivalling baby coupe-convertible that would sit below the XK in the range.

Plans for an R8 rival would mark another big step in the company's revival of its dated model range.

XFR breaks record

The revelation comes as the sports version of Jaguar's new XF model has smashed the company's speed record.

In a graphic demonstration of the progress made in car design and engineering since the 1990s, an uprated four-door XFR saloon hit a top speed of 225.675 mph at the Bonneville Salt Flats, going even faster than the 217.1mph record set by the XJ220.

Rumours are that the minor developments to the showroom XFR that boosted the car to the record will debut on the road as a hotter XFR S model.

With a price that will undercut significantly the BMW M5, the flagship XFR is set to be a tough package to beat at the top of the executive saloon sector.

Looking ahead

Jaguar had a mixed year in 2008, launching the widely-praised new XF model and seeing UK sales rise by nine percent while many other luxury car brands faced a sales slump.

But this success was overshadowed by news towards the end of the year of extended shut downs at the company's Castle Bromwich plant and job losses. With the company's current focus on developing its new XK and XF models, as well as launching an all-new luxury XJ saloon due in 2010, the XE is not likely to be seen in the showrooms before 2012.

Stuart Coster is editor of motoring advice site KwikGuides.com, which provides free guides and tools to help with buying, selling and running a car. The site's latest guide is on Choosing Car Insurance and Cutting the Cost.

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Ultra Luxury Cars | Top 5 Vehicles For 2010

The global automotive industry is showing signs of revival since the beginning of 2010 after last two turbulent years which witnessed the filing of bankruptcy by auto giant General Motors due to turmoil in the economy. Worst recessionary trends witnessed in 2009 look poised to fade, albeit at snail's pace, with consumer spending yet to return to normalcy.

The hallmark of the global auto industry is innovation and we have come a very long way from the day of invention of the wheel and powering of the first motor car. Vehicles like cars and trucks no longer portray symbols of status, but have become part of essential necessities in developed countries and ever-increasing list of developing countries.

The major players in the auto industry, including Ford, Toyota, General Motors, Hyundai and Suzuki Motors, have unleashed a range of new models to capture the eye of the consumer, who is holding back his purse strings struggling to fight recession.

What should you look for in a vehicle in 2010?

The technological advancements have changed and redefined the concept of vehicle design. The insistence on high level of safety standards, and adoption of greener technologies, coupled with energy and fuel efficiency has brought the best of the design from the auto manufacturers. Energy conservation, fuel economy, comfort, style and affordability are the major things that an avid customer looks for in a vehicle in the present circumstances.

A new model unleashed by Toyota Motor, the sleek-looking Prius, is one that will catch the eye of the customer. Not only is the car unique in the sense it is a full hybrid electric car, but the looks and style appears pleasing to say the least. Slightly on the higher side, of course, on cost comparisons, Toyota's Prius would be a serious contender among alternatives for a customer who looks for that little extra style and comfort in addition to fuel economy.

In the luxury class, a host of manufacturers are tying to catch the eye of the customer who values luxury, style and comfort in addition to fuel economy and safety standards.

BMW, the other name for style in automotive industry, unleashed a range of vehicles to the style-savvy customer. The new 2010 BMW 5 series, having the new V8 engine that is capable of boosting 0 - 60 mph in less than 6 seconds, is a serious contender in the luxury brand while not compromising on fuel economy and other interior features.

For the connoisseurs of luxury and style, 2010 Audi 8 model car will be a real teaser. The unique feature of this extravagant vehicle is the splendid interiors made of leather and wood inlays, and acres of comfort for the passengers, in addition to the stylish looks and superior performance on the road.

For the middle and upper middle class and nuclear family segment that is growing at a faster pace in emerging countries, the ideal picks would include Scion from Toyota Motor and Honda Civic Si from the stable of Honda motors.

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Ultra Luxury Cars | Hybrids Hit Mainstream For Manufactures

Would you believe me if I told you that Ferrari has unveiled a hybrid model?

A year ago, I would have laughed with you at the idea of a lean, cherry-red, Italian supercar with a hybrid power unit.

The Ferrari 559 is a radical departure for the company, but not for the hybrid unit alone - the car came not with the signature red paint job, but appreciatively green!

Obviously, this is not last year - it is 2010 and Ferrari is only one of a number of major car manufacturers announcing and unveiling hybrid models.

English car research and bespoke engineering company, Lotus has supplied a number of hybrid power unit "plug-ins" for Malaysian car manufacturer, Proton.

Hybrids have been the domain of the Japanese for the last five years, but the American car giants have been catching up (especially with the Congressional strings attached to bail-out funding and Presidential demands for cleaner and fuel-efficient cars). Now the Europeans are getting in on the act, and several manufacturers will undoubtedly be taking a share in the US market.

The Volkswagen Passat, diesel powered, has been voted the greenest car in the US for 2009, but it is not a hybrid. VW are addressing this glaring omission in their line-up with the introduction of the 2011 Toureg, an SUV which has shed over 460 pounds and has an added gas/electric unit. Though the Toureg comes in lighter than previous models, it has managed to retain its dimensions, so it is not in fact a smaller vehicle (just lighter).

Porsche have also launched the hybrid version of the Cayenne which shares the same platform as the Toureg (VW owns Porsche which is run as an independent unit), and the same hybrid unti will power the 2011 hybrid model too. It should come as no surprise that Audi are also getting in on the act - Audi is, of course, also owned by VW - and the same power unit is seen in the Audi S4.

Staying with VW a moment longer, Audi has launched the A8 Hybrid as its first major entry into the hybrid market. One difference from Audi's approach compared to the rest of the market is that Audi have focused on enhancing fuel efficiency from the petrol unit and not the electric one. Thanks to this, it is not the greenest car you can buy, but then again it is not a "small" car which seems to have been eschewed by the major European car makers. They are all competing for the high-end car buyer who wants green credentials but no sacrifice in performance and luxury.

BMW is also introducing a new 5-series range this year, but what really caught everyone's attention was not the new range but the 5-series Concept under BMW's ActiveHybrid brand. BMW has dabbled with hybrid concepts before, but the 5-series is the company's flagship range (closely allied with the 3-series). The 5-series range is probably BMW's best bet for entering the US hybrid market, and this is what has grabbed observers attention more than anything else, though the 7-series has already been put into production.

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Ultra Luxury Cars | GM Okays Electric Cadillac Converj

Cadillac will one day have its own Voltec based vehicle thanks to a decision by GM management to produce the concept coupe. The Converj has made the auto show rounds of late, a stylish two door model that shares the same technology designed for the upcoming Chevy Volt.

Voltec Technology

Though production has been approved for the Converj, GM has yet to set a date for when the car will be built and made available to consumers. Right now, GM is concentrating on getting the Volt ready which is expected to roll off an assembly line in November 2010 as a 2011 model. The Volt is powered by a lithium-ion battery pack and will have a 40 mile pure electric range which will be extended by a few hundred miles thanks to a supplemental 1.4L I4 gasoline engine.

Theoretically, a Volt driver would be able to commute back and forth to work daily without gasoline provided his mileage is held below that 40 mile threshold. The Converj would feature a similar arrangement, providing an uncommon but welcome luxury option for buyers.

Core Brands

News that Cadillac would get the Converj comes as the automaker battles with lagging sales. To date, Cadillac has lost the most sales of GM's four core brands (Cadillac, Buick, GMC, and Chevrolet) and is in need of some fresh product. Recently, the Cadillac CTS wagon and all new Cadillac SRX crossover were added to the brand's line up, but the company's own offerings pale with what its chief European competitors, BMW and Mercedes, have to offer.

To help its Voltec platform effort, GM is spending more than one billion dollars to bring the Volt to market, building a battery pack facility in Michigan to supply the car. Opel will also get a Voltec car, the Ampera, while GM may extend the technology to cars sold in other markets including Holden in Australia or possibly Buick in China.

Budding Electrification

As the Volt comes to market, several manufacturers will already have their electric cars available for sale. Right now, the Tesla Roadster is available with the Fisker Karma expected next year. Mitsubishi, Nissan and Ford have models promised which could mean that by 2015 the auto industry could be radically different, with electric and hybrid models dominating the market.

GM's decision to build the Converj comes after months of speculation that this radical looking electrified coupe would, indeed, be built.

Matthew C. Keegan is a freelance writer who resides in North Carolina. Matt is a contributing writer for Andy's Auto Sport an aftermarket supplier of quality parts including Cadillac wheels and Cadillac rims.

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