Tags: Mercedes-Benz R-class Mercedez-Benz R-class Audio tuning
Alpine Electronics of America,
Inc. today unveiled its new show car at the 2007 International Consumer Electronics Show (CES). The car, which started life as a Mercedes Benz R500, was transformed into a show-stopping, elegant, rolling IMPRINT sound system demonstration.Designed and built by Alpine’s in-house Advanced Application R & D team of Steve Brown, Gary Bell, Brent Davison and Glen Swackhamer from Alpine of Canada, the IMPRINT RLS is the newest creation to emerge from Alpine’s North American headquarters in Torrance, Calif.
The goal of the Alpine team was to build a great-sounding show car that was sleek and sophisticated, yet with custom work that would make it one-of-a-kind. The striking shape of the RLS was created entirely by hand, using only the original roof from the R500. The front, rear and sides of the RLS were shaped from fiberglass to give the car a sophisticated, flowing shape. The RLS differs from recent Alpine show cars which had bold custom airbrush paint designs. Instead, the RLS was sprayed with an elegant custom-mixed BASF R-M Carizzma Candy Cherry Cola Brown hue, which accentuates the shape of the car. The details and shadows on the external door panels, which have curves that undulate into the depths of the door, become more prominent depending on how light reflects off of the one-of-a-kind paint. One of the most striking elements about the RLS is that it has two doors, rather than the four doors that it began with. It is also a center-drive car, a characteristic that is reminiscent of previous Alpine show cars. But upon further inspection inside the RLS, one would wonder how it could be center drive if there are two front seats. The answer lies in that the RLS can be driven from either the left or right front seat. The custom-cut aluminum and leather steering wheel is located in the center console next to the shifter, and gas/brake pedals were provided for both front seats. The driver can enter the RLS from either the left or right door. Each door is actually connected to a seat, and each door/seat module is on a motorized rotating platform that automatically rotates the seat outward -- and the door inward -- to allow the driver access to the completely custom-made interior. Once two lucky passengers are inside, they are in for the ultimate sound quality experience thanks to Alpine’s new IMPRINT sound technology.
One of the most striking elements about the RLS is that it has two doors, rather than the four doors that it began with.The strategy behind building a two-seater, center drive car was not just for eye-candy. The RLS’ interior and audio system were specifically designed to showcase the capabilities of the IMPRINT sound architecture. IMPRINT allows the listener to experience music the way the artist intended. Using the CDA-9887 CD/MP3/WMA/AAC receiver and its IMPRINT Sound Manager software kit, the build team was able to easily – and automatically -- tune and calibrate the RLS’ sound system. A specially designed microphone measures the acoustic environment of the car’s interior, analyzing acoustical problems. The software then applies advanced acoustical corrections to ensure that the signal that the speakers are being fed are exactly what the artist had intended.
The entire automated tuning process takes approximately 20 minutes, which is light-years faster than traditional sound tuning procedures.For the Alpine team, it was a good thing that the system could be tuned so quickly, so that they could concentrate on other aspects of the RLS. An iPod® loaded with Apple Lossless-encoded music supplements the CDA-9887’s AM/FM/CD sources and is connected via the KCE-422i Full Speed Connection for iPod cable. A SIRIUS® Satellite Radio Sportster 4 also adds an endless amount of music and entertainment sources, and is connected through the KCA-SC100 SIRIUS satellite radio interface.Two PDX-4.150 amplifiers power the front and rear speakers. The front soundstage consists of the first PDX-4.150 running four 6.5-inch mids from the SPX-17REF component set, along with channels 1 and 2 of the second PDX-4.150 running two tweeters from the SPX-17REF component set. The rear sound comes from channels 3 and 4 of the second PDX-4.150, running an SPX-17REF component set.To get impressive bass impact in the front of the car, the team installed four SPX-1043D 10-inch subwoofers in a sealed enclosure built into the custom-made dash. Each of these woofers is powered by one PDX-1.1000 amplifier for maximum dynamic response.All of the PDX amplifiers are showcased on a handmade motorized cylindrical amplifier display that emerges from the back of the vehicle. The amplifier display is embellished with a custom-made aluminum,11-inch diameter, CNC-machined Mercedes Benz emblem. At the touch of a button, the display travels 27 inches out the back of the RLS while simultaneously rotating 360 degrees.The RLS began as a glimmer in the eyes of the Alpine team, and Roybal Designs helped with the vehicle rendering to get the RLS on the path to reality. With support from Mercedes Benz, the RLS project began its 3.5-month long transformation. Monster Cable wiring is used throughout the RLS, while Kinetik batteries supply power to the car and the audio system.
The RLS rides on one-off TIS Wheels (26-inch in the front, 30-inch in the rear) and Pirelli tires, with massive stopping power from Brembo brakes. Custom interior lighting was provide by Pilot, to complement the custom leather upholstery work and airbrushed wood grain panels. Indie Beach Productions supplied editing for the video content that plays in the monitors in the front and rear of the RLS as well as on the free-standing external LCD monitors that will flank the RLS at shows.“The IMPRINT RLS takes Alpine back to its roots by showcasing excellent sound quality,” said Stephen Witt, vice president, Marketing, Alpine Electronics. “Beneath the RLS’ custom interior and exterior fabrication lies the heart of the sound system -- the IMPRINT sound architecture – which can be easily and automatically tuned for optimal sound reproduction in any vehicle.” The IMPRINT RLS will be on display at trade and consumer events throughout 2007.About Alpine Electronics Alpine Electronics is an automotive electronics system supplier and an ISO certified global corporation. Alpine specializes in engineering and manufacturing products for mobile media systems that include audio, video, satellite-linked navigation and connectivity solutions. With research and development facilities in Asia, Europe and the U.S., Alpine is the automotive specialist for premium sound systems and vehicle navigation for both aftermarket and OEM factory installations. Alpine Electronics is a consolidated subsidiary of Alps Electric Co., Ltd., one of the world’s premier manufacturers of electronic components for computer, communications and car electronics equipment.
Visit www.alpine-usa.com to learn more about Alpine products or to find an authorized retailer. -----
Tags: Carlsson 78th International Geneva Motor Show tuning Mercedes-Benz CL C M-class Geneva Motor Show 2008 / Hall 2, Stand 2240The 78th Geneva Motor Show opens its doors from 6 to 16 March and Carlsson is taking part for the first time with a stand in the manufacturers' halls. 
In addition to the complete Carlsson range, the company will also present two world premières at Stand 2240 in Hall 2:WORLD PREMIERE No. 1: Carlsson CD32 based on the C 320 CDI C Class Estate (S204)Carlsson now turned its attention to the 320 CDI version of the C Class Estate and, in Geneva, presents the CD32, an automobile that meets the highest expectations in terms of looks and performance. Equipped with the Carlsson C-Tronic® system of the latest generation, the CD32, which has been developed for all Mercedes-Benz models with the current 320 CDI engine, is boosted by 45 to 269 bhp, a significance increase over the 224 bhp of the standard model. Torque is up to a solid 612 Nm. Also impressive is the acceleration from 0-100 km/h, which is cut by around a second compared to the standard model. Correction maps ensure that the engine's reserves are only used when it is safe to do so. Thus, the cooling-water temperature is monitored and the power increase only generated when the correct operating temperature has been reached, i.e., when water temperature is between 65 and 100 °C. Moreover, the intelligent control system ensures that the optimum settings are selected under all operating conditions. Carlsson gives a three-year warranty on the new generation C-Tronic® CD32. The environment also benefits from Carlsson's C-Tronic® Diesel performance kits. Thanks to its clever use of technology, the C-Tronic® reduces average fuel consumption and, therefore, CO2 emissions by up to 10 %. At the same time it reduces pollutant emissions. Naturally, the special requirements of the particle filter are met in full. The Carlsson CD32 C Class Estate is distinguished by sporting aerodynamic qualities. Consisting of front apron, rear apron with diffuser look, side mouldings and rear spoiler, the aerodynamic kit in OEM quality reduces lift and radiates elegance and power. The kit also includes a stylish, electro-polished grille insert and double-headlamp units with fog and driving lights for better luminous efficiency and greater safety. Handling and looks are both improved by loweringthe car with special springs developed on the racetrack. The appearance is also upgraded by the new 1/14 RS wheel that Carlsson is also presenting as a WORLD PREMIERE in Geneva. Inside the car, passengers find a sporting, comfortable and elegant interior that makes even the longest journey a pleasure.WORLD PREMIERE No. 2Carlsson 1/14 RS wheelFor the first time, Carlsson presents a brand-new cast wheel, the one-piece 1/14 RS, which is available in the dimensions 8.5 and 9.5 x 19" for the Mercedes C Class (W204), SLK, CLS, E Class and CLK models.
Carlsson offers the brand-new creation in a modern black finish on a finely turned surface. The evolution of Carlsson's successful, classic 15-spoke wheel stands out thanks to its extremely sporting looks.SWISS PREMIERE:Carlsson Aigner CK65 RS Eau RougeCarlsson and international leather-lifestyle brand Etienne Aigner have joined forces to develop the Carlsson Aigner CK65 "Eau Rouge". Made in an exclusive small series of 10 cars, the luxury coupé based on the Mercedes-Benz CL produces over 700 bhp and 1,100 Nm after being breathed on by Carlsson, which puts it almost in the Formula 1 class and does justice to its name commemorating the famous 'Eau Rouge' curve at the Spa Francorchamps racetrack. The engine conversion by Carlsson includes a special electronic control unit, sports air filters, a stainless-steel sports exhaust system with high-performance metal catalytic converters and sports silencers, as well as improved intercooling, which reduces charge-air temperature. Thus, the V12 is always raring to go and the driver can rely on having more than adequate power on hand regardless of the situation.
Also impressive: a top speed of 320 km/h, which is electronically regulated (!) for safety reasons and an acceleration time of just 3.9 seconds for the standing start from 0-100 km/h. For € 305,000, ten selected customers receive a small-series work of art on four wheels. The complete interior is fully redesigned and made individually by craftsmen. With the finest Aigner leather matching the high-quality, two-tone exterior paintwork, the Carlsson Aigner CK65 Eau Rouge is a rare gem among the world's best automobiles.Carlsson ML CD32 based on the M Class Significantly more athletic and luxurious than ever before is the Carlsson ML CD32 based on the ML 320 CDI. Thanks to the easy to install and reinstall Carlsson C-Tronic® Diesel POWER control unit, this big but light-footed vehicle can boast an output of 269 bhp (198kW) and torque of 612 Nm. 
The correction maps of the C-Tronic® ensure high safety standards by only using the engine's reserves when the engine is at the correct operating temperature. More power and sound is promised by the stainless-steel rear silencers, each of which is fitted with double oval tailpipes and optimised in terms of back pressure and pipe run. The electronic C-Tronic® SUSPENSION system lowers the vehicle by up to 40 mm resulting in a more sporting appearance and – thanks to less body roll – improved handling. At the same time, C-Tronic® SUSPENSION reacts intelligently to the road conditions. On poor surfaces, the ride height reverts to the standard level to permit the spring travel necessary for constant comfort. Externally, the CD32 is characterised by the sporting aerodynamics typical of Carlsson. The front spoiler and rear-apron lip are distinguished by the company's familiar diffuser look. Fitted with Carlsson 1/11 Evo Brilliant Edition wheels with the dimensions 11 x 22“, the M Class benefits not only from an optical effect but also from technical advantages, e.g., less weight. Naturally, the CD32 also spoils the driver and passengers inside with only the finest materials being used for the interior appointments. A combination of Alcantara and leather represents an invitation to get in and feel at home. Illuminated door sills show the way into a world of luxury and elegance.
In addition to the complete Carlsson range, the company will also present two world premières at Stand 2240 in Hall 2:WORLD PREMIERE No. 1: Carlsson CD32 based on the C 320 CDI C Class Estate (S204)Carlsson now turned its attention to the 320 CDI version of the C Class Estate and, in Geneva, presents the CD32, an automobile that meets the highest expectations in terms of looks and performance. Equipped with the Carlsson C-Tronic® system of the latest generation, the CD32, which has been developed for all Mercedes-Benz models with the current 320 CDI engine, is boosted by 45 to 269 bhp, a significance increase over the 224 bhp of the standard model. Torque is up to a solid 612 Nm. Also impressive is the acceleration from 0-100 km/h, which is cut by around a second compared to the standard model. Correction maps ensure that the engine's reserves are only used when it is safe to do so. Thus, the cooling-water temperature is monitored and the power increase only generated when the correct operating temperature has been reached, i.e., when water temperature is between 65 and 100 °C. Moreover, the intelligent control system ensures that the optimum settings are selected under all operating conditions. Carlsson gives a three-year warranty on the new generation C-Tronic® CD32. The environment also benefits from Carlsson's C-Tronic® Diesel performance kits. Thanks to its clever use of technology, the C-Tronic® reduces average fuel consumption and, therefore, CO2 emissions by up to 10 %. At the same time it reduces pollutant emissions. Naturally, the special requirements of the particle filter are met in full. The Carlsson CD32 C Class Estate is distinguished by sporting aerodynamic qualities. Consisting of front apron, rear apron with diffuser look, side mouldings and rear spoiler, the aerodynamic kit in OEM quality reduces lift and radiates elegance and power. The kit also includes a stylish, electro-polished grille insert and double-headlamp units with fog and driving lights for better luminous efficiency and greater safety. Handling and looks are both improved by loweringthe car with special springs developed on the racetrack. The appearance is also upgraded by the new 1/14 RS wheel that Carlsson is also presenting as a WORLD PREMIERE in Geneva. Inside the car, passengers find a sporting, comfortable and elegant interior that makes even the longest journey a pleasure.WORLD PREMIERE No. 2Carlsson 1/14 RS wheelFor the first time, Carlsson presents a brand-new cast wheel, the one-piece 1/14 RS, which is available in the dimensions 8.5 and 9.5 x 19" for the Mercedes C Class (W204), SLK, CLS, E Class and CLK models.Carlsson offers the brand-new creation in a modern black finish on a finely turned surface. The evolution of Carlsson's successful, classic 15-spoke wheel stands out thanks to its extremely sporting looks.SWISS PREMIERE:Carlsson Aigner CK65 RS Eau RougeCarlsson and international leather-lifestyle brand Etienne Aigner have joined forces to develop the Carlsson Aigner CK65 "Eau Rouge". Made in an exclusive small series of 10 cars, the luxury coupé based on the Mercedes-Benz CL produces over 700 bhp and 1,100 Nm after being breathed on by Carlsson, which puts it almost in the Formula 1 class and does justice to its name commemorating the famous 'Eau Rouge' curve at the Spa Francorchamps racetrack. The engine conversion by Carlsson includes a special electronic control unit, sports air filters, a stainless-steel sports exhaust system with high-performance metal catalytic converters and sports silencers, as well as improved intercooling, which reduces charge-air temperature. Thus, the V12 is always raring to go and the driver can rely on having more than adequate power on hand regardless of the situation.
Also impressive: a top speed of 320 km/h, which is electronically regulated (!) for safety reasons and an acceleration time of just 3.9 seconds for the standing start from 0-100 km/h. For € 305,000, ten selected customers receive a small-series work of art on four wheels. The complete interior is fully redesigned and made individually by craftsmen. With the finest Aigner leather matching the high-quality, two-tone exterior paintwork, the Carlsson Aigner CK65 Eau Rouge is a rare gem among the world's best automobiles.Carlsson ML CD32 based on the M Class Significantly more athletic and luxurious than ever before is the Carlsson ML CD32 based on the ML 320 CDI. Thanks to the easy to install and reinstall Carlsson C-Tronic® Diesel POWER control unit, this big but light-footed vehicle can boast an output of 269 bhp (198kW) and torque of 612 Nm. The correction maps of the C-Tronic® ensure high safety standards by only using the engine's reserves when the engine is at the correct operating temperature. More power and sound is promised by the stainless-steel rear silencers, each of which is fitted with double oval tailpipes and optimised in terms of back pressure and pipe run. The electronic C-Tronic® SUSPENSION system lowers the vehicle by up to 40 mm resulting in a more sporting appearance and – thanks to less body roll – improved handling. At the same time, C-Tronic® SUSPENSION reacts intelligently to the road conditions. On poor surfaces, the ride height reverts to the standard level to permit the spring travel necessary for constant comfort. Externally, the CD32 is characterised by the sporting aerodynamics typical of Carlsson. The front spoiler and rear-apron lip are distinguished by the company's familiar diffuser look. Fitted with Carlsson 1/11 Evo Brilliant Edition wheels with the dimensions 11 x 22“, the M Class benefits not only from an optical effect but also from technical advantages, e.g., less weight. Naturally, the CD32 also spoils the driver and passengers inside with only the finest materials being used for the interior appointments. A combination of Alcantara and leather represents an invitation to get in and feel at home. Illuminated door sills show the way into a world of luxury and elegance.------
Tags: Mercedes-Benz M-class Mercedes-Benz M-class "Edition 10" new modelsMercedes-Benz is celebrating the 10th birthday of its successful M-Class, the top-selling premium SUV with 850,000 units to its name.
To mark the occasion, Mercedes-Benz is bringing out the attractive special “Edition 10” model. The specification includes 20-inch wheels, bi‑xenon headlamps and special bodywork highlights in titanium-look as well as dark-tinted tail lights. The sporty, refined interior features two-tone all-leather appointments, sports instruments and stainless steel sports pedals. The “Edition 10” can be ordered from autumn 2007.The “Edition 10” is a fitting tribute to mark the tenth anniversary of the most successful Mercedes-Benz premium SUV. It recalls the market launch of the M‑Class a decade ago, a vehicle now regarded as the pioneer of the premium SUV. Compared with the series-production models, the anniversary edition sporting the special “Edition 10” logos on the wings features even higher-grade appointments and is instantly recognisable from the exterior, courtesy of its eye-catching design and engineering details. Highlights include the 20-inch light-alloy wheels shod with 265/45 R 20 V tyres. Depending on the customer’s preference, the light-alloy wheels in gleaming silver provide an interesting contrast to the “Edition 10” design ‑ or blend in harmoniously with if the darkened “chrome shadow” finish is specified. The darkened housings for the bi-xenon headlamps with Active Light System and identically styled fog lamps with integral cornering light function lend the vehicle’s front end an even more striking appearance. The package of measures at the front end is rounded off with a special radiator grille and simulated stainless steel underride guard, both in titanium-look. Dark-tinted tail light clusters, a simulated stainless steel underride guard in titanium-look and twin-pipe exhaust system with separate chrome tailpipes adorn the rear of the M-Class “Edition 10”. Blue-tinted glass and special chrome trim elements on the door handles, rub strips, radiator grille and rear bumper add the finishing touches to the striking appearance. The special model is available in obsidian black, iridium silver or calcite white.
The two-tone all-leather appointments in cashmere beige and black create an interesting contrast in the interior. The black roof lining, the sports instrument cluster and wood trim elements either in “anthracite poplar” or “pale birch” further enhance the interior refinement. Velour floor mats with an embroidered “Edition 10” logo welcome occupants, while the driver can enjoy the special touch of brushed stainless steel sports pedals. Power-adjustable front seats and the interior lighting package round off the specification.The standard equipment of the powerful trendsetter includes the seven-speed automatic transmission 7G-TRONIC with DIRECT SELECT, ESP®, 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive and the 4ETS traction system with additional functions including Downhill Speed Regulation, hill-start assist and off-road ABS. Difficult terrain is easier to negotiate with the optional Off-Road Pro engineering package, which includes a low-range ratio, electronically controlled multi-disc differential locks for the centre and rear differentials and increased ground clearance. Optional extras include the AIRMATIC air suspension system with the Adaptive Damping System ADS, the COMAND APS telematics system or KEYLESS-GO, all of which add extra comfort and convenience.A choice of five “Edition 10” modelsIn addition to the powerful V8 diesel engine with its 700 Nm of torque in the ML 420 CDI 4MATIC, two superlative V6 diesel units are available. The V6 entry-level unit in the ML 280 CDI produces 140 kW / 190 hp, the ML 320 CDI develops 165 kW/224 hp from the same displacement. The ML 350 and the ML 500 with the new 5.5-litre V8 unit bring two petrol versions to the line-up with outputs of 200 kW/272 hp and 285 kW/388 hp respectively.Ten years in Tuscaloosa – a German-American success storyThe first generation of the M-Class (W 163) was launched in 1997, paving the way for today’s premium SUVs. Fitted with all-wheel drive as standard, it combined the comfort and handling safety of a passenger car with the ruggedness of an off-road vehicle. The Sports Utility Vehicle also offered ample room and optimum adaptability, virtually assuring its success from the off: some 600,000 units of the first-generation M-Class were sold worldwide before it was replaced by the all-new model generation in 2005. The W 164 series consummately perpetuates this success story; around 250,000 Mercedes-Benz customers have already purchased this model.Like the first generation, the current M-Class is manufactured at the DaimlerChrysler Tuscaloosa plant in the U.S. state of Alabama. The production facility was opened on May 21, 1997, two years after construction began, and was the first Mercedes-Benz passenger car plant outside Germany. Shortly after production started, worldwide M-Class demand easily outstripped forecasts. In addition to the initial 300 million U.S. dollars, the company invested another 100 million U.S. dollars to increase capacity from 60,000 to 80,000 vehicles a year. In 2002, more than 88,000 M-Class vehicles were produced in Tuscaloosa, setting a new record. Between 1999 and 2002, the M-Class was also produced at Magna Steyr in Graz, Austria, where the legendary G-Class is built.The Mercedes-Benz all-wheel-drive story began a hundred years ago In addition to marking the 10th anniversary of the model series, the launch of the M-Class “Edition 10” in 2007 also recalls another significant event. In 1907 – exactly a hundred years ago – the Berlin-Marienfelde plant rolled out the world’s first all-terrain all-wheel-drive passenger car. This one-off vehicle, painstakingly designed by Paul Daimler, was used by the German Imperial Colonial Office in German Southwest Africa, now Namibia. The technology used in the 3.6-tonne vehicle with its touring car body and six seats was ahead of its time. In addition to the permanent all-wheel drive, the large vehicle even had all-wheel steering for better manoeuvrability. The entire powertrain was encapsulated, making it perfectly suited to the ubiquitous dusty desert tracks of German Southwest Africa. A sturdy underride guard protected the transmission.The “Dernburg Wagen”, named after Bernhard Dernburg, the head of the German Imperial Colonial Office, was used successfully for several years, mainly in the area around Windhoek and Swakopmund, and clocked up no less than 10,000 kilometres. The trail of this unique vehicle went cold in the post-colonial era – its whereabouts are now a mystery.
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