Showing posts with label Sema2009. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Sema2009. Show all posts

Friday, November 20, 2009

SEMA 2009: Yenko Camaro makes it's debut


Well that was quick. It was only a couple of weeks ago that we had some nice artist renderings of the new Yenko Camaro, and now we get to see it in the flesh at SEMA.

Behold, the Phase I. It features an LS3, the same 6.2 liter present in the Camaro SS. While that may not match the cubes of the original's 427 big block, it does make a stout 600 horsepower thanks to a supercharger.

The Phase II and Phase III are in the pipeline with what is expected to obviously be more horsepower. Think perhaps an LS7, or LS9?


SEMA 2009: A pair of Camaro convertibles



Even though you are unable to purchase a Camaro convertible from Chevrolet right now, you were able to see a couple of them at SEMA in Las Vegas.

The first drop top comes to us from the appropriately named Drop Top Customs, and is pretty easy to spot thanks to it's screaming yellow paint. The guys at Drop Top are experts, and build a solid car. If you can't wait for Chevrolet to put out it's own Camaro 'vert, they might be the way to go.

The next convertible is a conversion done by Newport Convertible, and it looks a little less OE with it's custom chrome grill and and wheels.


Thursday, November 19, 2009

SEMA 2009: Specter Werkes C6 GTR Corvette


Specter Werkes, based out of Troy MI, was kind enough to come out and show off their version of a C6 Corvette, the GTR. Their latest super 'vette packs an LS7 under it's bonnet that is force fed with twin Lingenfelter turbos and produces 800 hp.

Lots of visual upgrades accompany the incredible power and are covered in Pearl Blue paint. A body kit, deep chin spoiler, and sculpted fenders look nice without being over the top. Check out the press release below for full details.

PRESS RELEASE

The latest Corvette GTR by Specter Werkes/Sports debuts Nov. 3 at the annual SEMA Show in Las Vegas. Distinguished by its unique, BASF Pearl Blue exterior color and HRE CF40 carbon fiber wheels, the newest GTR will be on display outside the Las Vegas Convention Center's Central Hall, as a feature vehicle for HRE.

Based on the Corvette Z06, this new GTR also represents a collaboration between Specter Werkes and Lingenfelter Performance Engineering, with a Lingenfelter twin-turbo system powering the car – and pumping its 7.0-liter LS7 engine to 800 horsepower.

"Specter GTRs have been featured at SEMA for many years and we're excited to debut the most unique example to date at this year's show," said Jeff Nowicki, president of Specter Werkes/Sports. "From the BASF pearl paint and HRE carbon wheels, to the Lingenfelter engine, there's never been a GTR like this one and we think it will resonate with sports car enthusiasts of all stripes."

Featuring dramatic bodywork and carbon fiber details, the GTR blends racing-inspired design cues with uncompromising luxury and performance. The Specter Werkes/Sports GTR package is available on all C6 Corvette models, including the base coupe and convertible, the Z06 and ZR1. The new, Pearl Blue example's carbon fiber wheels and other carbon accents are complemented by a matte black rear fascia.

The use of HRE carbon fiber wheels is a first on a GTR. They weigh only 22 pounds apiece and are wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport PS2 Zero Pressure tires. Additional features on the new GTR include:

StopTech STR big-brake package, featuring six-piston front calipers and four-piston rear calipers
Mobil 1 synthetic fluids
Corsa exhaust system with GTR-specific exhaust tips
Spinneybeck hand-tipped leather interior accents
Matte-finish carbon fiber accents, including the headlamp housing, front splitter, outside mirrors and more
Specter Werkes/Sports is an automotive prototype and fabrication facility based in Troy, Mich. It specializes in race-proven engine performance enhancements and creating specialty accessories for the C5 and C6 Corvette, the Cadillac CTS and more.

For more information, visit www.spectergtr.com or call 248-583-9559.


Tuesday, November 17, 2009

SEMA 2009: Ford shows off pair of GT500s


Ford was really showing off in their booth this year with this pair of GT500s, both old and new. A 1967 and 2010 model sat side by side, perfectly matched with their Wimbledon White paint with Guardsman Blue stripes.

The '67 is a real original, number 3139 in the Shelby Registry. The '10 is a one off, dubbed the Patriot Edition, and features a host of upgrades to make it more closely resemble it's predecessor.

The big news, however, is that this beautiful duo can be yours. The two cars are being raffled off to raise money for the Healing Heroes Network, a charity that benefits injured Veterans. Go here if you are interested.

Monday, November 16, 2009

SEMA 2009: Dodge Challenger Mopar Edition


Despite the Chevrolet Camaro's huge presence at SEMA, Dodge had it's fair share of Challengers as well. The version you see here is simply called the "Mopar Edition" and features numerous items straight from the Mopar catalog. Check out the list of stuff below, complete with prices so you can build your own dream list.


PRESS RELEASE:

Custom-designed, matte black Go-Wing Rear Spoiler MSRP: $316
Mopar Nostalgia Wheels are a throw back to Mopar's heritage with 20-inch, 5-spoke forged-aluminum wheels featuring both a polished and clear-coat finish. MSRP: $583/each
Black 5.7-liter HEMI® Engine Cover with HEMI logos show off the powerplant in a not-so-subtle style. MSRP: $326
Hood Prop Kit replaces the single-hood prop rod with two gas struts and fasteners for easy hood travel. MSRP: $51.60
Cold-air Intake Kit provides noticeable gains in horsepower and torque, improved performance when accelerating and emits an aggressive sound from under the hood. MSRP: $371
Front and Rear Splash Guards provide excellent protection for front fenders, rocker panels and rear fascias with a custom-molded design. MSRP: $52.75 pair
Stainless-steel Cat-back Exhaust features a free-flow system that provides gains in horsepower and torque in addition to improved fuel economy and a deep-toned exhaust note. MSRP: $1,190
Chromed Fuel Door offers bright, bold complement to any exterior paint color while providing a retro look. MSRP: $176
One-piece Wheel Lock Kit provides protection with four chrome-plated locking nuts and one exclusive Mopar key. MSRP: $43.45
Custom Strobe Stripe Graphic adds a black stripe that begins on both front fenders and fades out midway through the door panel for an added performance look. MSRP: $182
Uconnect™ Navigation includes AM/FM/DVD player and Sirius Satellite radio with 30-gigabyte hard drive, USB connection and mini stereo jack. MSRP: $2,050
Sound system includes 368-watt amplifier (MSRP: $210), two 6-inch x 9-inch speakers in front (MSRP: $115), two 6-inch x 5-inch KICKER speakers in rear (MSRP: $79), and dual 10-inch square KICKER Subwoofer (MSRP: $885)
Ambient Lighting Kit illuminates the entire front footwell and cupholder areas with multi-color LEDs controlled with a rotary knob. MSRP: $274
Mopar Sirius Satellite Radio Antenna Kit delivers a new level of depth and content with more than 100 channels of digital entertainment from coast to coast. MSRP: $158
Chromed T-handle Shifter featuring a Mopar logo enhances the interior appearance by replacing the stock shift knob on the automatic-equipped Dodge Challenger. MSRP: $137
Interior Bezel Kit upgrades the center stack and console trim plate bezels with a two-piece, carbon-weave hydrographic finish. MSRP: $172
Easy-to-install Pedal Dress Up Kit showcases bright stainless-steel pedal covers for a performance-accented look. MSRP: $82.25
Mopar's brushed stainless-steel Door-Sill Guards make scratches to the interior sills a thing of the past. MSRP: $140
Premium front and rear Floor Mats feature 24-ounce luxury carpet that is color-coordinated to match any interior color. Front mats are custom-contoured for an exact fit and feature the Dodge Challenger logo on top of a rubber-nibbed backing which keep them firmly in place. MSRP: $82.25/set of four
Challenger-branded Cargo Area Mat is made of 24-ounce luxury carpet that is custom fit with a surged-edge binding for easy removal. MSRP: $107
Mopar's Stage II Coilover Suspension Kit allows up to a 1.625-inch ride-height drop for a low, custom look while maintaining a sporty, comfortable ride. MSRP: $1,750
Made from heavy gauge, powder-coated steel, the Strut Tower Brace reduces body flex in the front end and improves handling and driveability. MSRP: $359
Hood Pin and Cable Kit adds an extra touch of exposed chrome to Dodge Challenger's front end. MSRP: $71
Mopar-edition Hood Decal MSRP: $350


Sunday, November 15, 2009

SEMA 2009: WD-40 Camaro


One of the many Camaros in the sea of SEMA, this WD-40 show car does pack a nice punch. A 600 hp 6.2L V8, to be exact. Not only that, but the car was built for a good cause, the SEMA Cares charity and will be auctioned off at the next installment of the Barrett-Jackson Auction in Scottsdale. Proceeds will benefit the Childhelp and Victory Junction Gang charities, among others.

PRESS RELEASE:

WD-40/SEMA CARES CAMARO TO BE UNVEILED AT SEMA SHOW, AUCTIONED AT BARRETT-JACKSON

LAS VEGAS (SEMA Show, Booth #10737), Oct. 21, 2009 – The WD-40®/SEMA Cares Camaro is making its debut inside the SEMA Show Grand Lobby Nov. 3-6, two months before it gets auctioned to help children in need.

The vehicle, a custom 2010 Chevrolet Camaro SS/RS with a 6.2-liter V8 engine and more than 600 horsepower, features a body kit, custom interior, entertainment system, and paint that emulates WD-40's signature blue and yellow can. A virtual version of the vehicle will also appear in Nitto 1320 Legends, an online racing game and social network with more than 900,000 members.

After debuting at the SEMA Show, the WD-40/SEMA Cares Camaro will appear at select West Coast auto-related events and then be auctioned at the Barrett-Jackson Classic Car Show and Auction Jan. 18–24 in Scottsdale, Ariz. Proceeds of the sale of the vehicle will go to Childhelp®, an organization that provides services to abused and neglected children, and The Victory Junction Gang® Camp, which provides life-changing camping experiences to special needs and chronically ill children.

"This vehicle honors a product that has helped mechanics, aftermarket professionals and auto enthusiasts get the job done for more than 50 years, and its sale will support great charities," said Tim Lesmeister, vice president of marketing at WD-40 Company. "We're having a lot of fun with the project, and we know it would not be possible without the time, energy, dedication and resources of our build partners."

Partners involved in the build of the Camaro include: APE Wraps; Audio Innovations; Cie Studios; DynoMax; Eclipse; Forgeline Motorsports; Haddad Motorsports; Hedman Hedders; House of Tints; Katzkin Leather; L&G Enterprises; MGP Caliper Covers; Nitto Tires; Odyssey Batteries; Paxton Automotive; Pedders USA; PhotoTouch Inc.; PPG Industries; Sony Computer Entertainment America; Street Scene Equipment; and Top Quality Powder Coating.

For more information about the vehicle, visit wd40.com/camaro-build.

WD-40 Company, with headquarters in San Diego, is a global consumer product company dedicated to delivering unique, high-value and easy-to-use solutions for a wide variety of maintenance needs of "doer" and "on-the-job" users by leveraging and building the brand fortress of the company. The company markets two multi-purpose maintenance product brands, WD-40®, and 3-IN-ONE® and eight homecare and cleaning product brands: X-14® hard surface cleaners and automatic toilet bowl cleaners, 2000 Flushes® automatic toilet bowl cleaners, Carpet Fresh® and No Vac® rug and room deodorizers, Spot Shot® aerosol and liquid carpet stain removers, 1001® carpet, household cleaners and rug and room deodorizers, and Lava® and Solvol® heavy-duty hand cleaners.

WD-40 Company markets its products in more than 160 countries worldwide and recorded sales of $292 million in fiscal year 2009.


Monday, November 9, 2009

SEMA 2009: Camaros preview new options


GM was present at SEMA with several Camaros, some of which were there to preview upcoming options for the reborn muscle car. These cars, named Snergy, Chroma, Dusk and Graphics, each highlighted an element destined for production in the future.

Synergy shows off a new limited production color.

Chroma features lots of Bowtie accessories such as a body kit, graphics package, 21 inch wheels, blade spoiler, and a new grille.

The Dusk is a concept that GM says is "Inspired by the style of young, urban professionals... It is a very tailored look that is stylish and sophisticated, but with a distinct American accent." It has a number of features including BBS wheels, ground effects, Brembo brakes, and a tech package with Boston Acoustics stereo, WiFi, and an Iphone dock.

The Graphics Camaro sports a series of four looks that rotated through the GM booth each day of the show. attendees can vote for their favorite look, with the winner possibly going into production. You can vote for your favorite on the Camaro's Facebook page.

Press Release:

CAMARO EXTRAVAGANZA: CHEVROLET HITS THE SEMA SHOW WITH FIVE INSPIRED CONCEPTS OF THE RED-HOT SPORTS COUPE

LAS VEGAS - Chevrolet unveiled five dramatic Camaro concepts at the annual automotive aftermarket extravaganza known as the SEMA Convention, each representing a different vision of style, personalization and performance.

The Camaro concept vehicles include:
* A race-ready, twin-turbocharged V-6 concept built for talk show host and auto enthusiast Jay Leno
* The Camaro Synergy concept that reveals a new, limited-production exterior color for spring 2010 and is accented with a number of production accessories and custom touches
* The Camaro Chroma, an SS-based concept with a number of future accessories
* The Camaro Dusk, which incorporates current and proposed accessories to create a contemporary tuner aesthetic
* Camaro Graphics, highlighting six proposed accessory graphics packages, with online voting by the public to gauge interest in potential future production of one or more of the packages.

"During the annual SEMA Convention, the popularity of a new car can be easily judged by the number of 'tuner' versions used by various companies to showcase their latest products; and the Camaro is our runaway hit this year, with countless examples displaying everything from mild styling accessories to wild performance modifications," said Brent Dewar, vice president, Global Chevrolet Brand. "We're thrilled by all the creative ideas, but especially proud of the cars we developed in-house. They represent modern interpretations of the Camaro that could easily be created by owners using the accessories offered by Chevrolet."

Many of the Camaro accessories can be ordered through Chevy dealers for installation at the time of the vehicle's purchase. This allows customers to personalize their cars to their exact wishes, with installation handled by the dealer and the cost rolled into the monthly payments.

In addition to the Camaro contingent, Chevrolet is also showing the Silverado ZR2 concept and an accessorized Corvette Grand Sport at SEMA. Here's a closer look at each of the concepts:

The Jay Leno Camaro
Powered by a twin-turbocharged version of the 3.6L direct injected V-6 that is standard in Camaro LS and LT models, Leno's Camaro blends high performance with surprising efficiency in a racing-ready package. A pair of Turbonetics T-3 turbochargers blows through a custom air-to-air intercooler, force-feeding the engine about seven pounds of boost and lifting its horsepower level to about 425. That's about 40 percent greater than stock and in normal driving (when the turbochargers aren't making boost), there's virtually no penalty in fuel economy over the non-turbocharged 3.6L engine.

"Jay's Camaro offers style, performance and efficiency in a big way," said Dewar. "It delivers the power of a Camaro SS on demand, but with the fuel economy of a V-6."

Supporting upgrades for the turbo system include a larger-capacity Be-Kool radiator and a custom exhaust system, as well as a Centerforce-supplied clutch and pressure plate for the six-speed manual transmission. The tubing for the turbo system is powder-coated blue. The powertrain was designed to deliver consistent, controllable power for both the street and race track. In fact, road racing was a primary mission for the car during its development.

Additional vehicle also support its racing intent:
* Brembo six-piston brake package
* Pedders coil-over lowering kit
* New front fascia with custom fog lamps and integral brake cooling vents
* Air extractor-style hood

The exterior styling of Leno's car is the most radical of all the Camaro concepts at SEMA. The front fascia and hood are one-off creations, as are the unique upper and lower grilles and the ground effects package (including a rear diffuser). The heritage-inspired vent styling in front of the rear wheels has been replaced with functional brake cooling ducts.

Camaro Synergy
The Camaro Synergy concept previews a new Synergy Green production exterior color that will be offered on a special-edition Camaro in the first half of 2010. It also features a host of the latest Camaro accessories offered through Chevy dealers. They dramatically enhance the performance appearance of the car, demonstrating the personalization possibilities open to Camaro owners. Designers took liberties with the accessories, creating a totally unique package. Details include:
* 21-inch wheels, with a black center finish and polished rim
* Ground effects kit
* Cyber Grey Rally hood stripes
* High wing rear spoiler (future accessory)
* Performance air intake

The ground effects include pronounced rocker moldings, a rear diffuser-type styling piece and a front spoiler. They, along with the rear wing spoiler and rally stripes, are finished in the production Cyber Grey color, although the ground effects and spoiler can be painted to match the exterior of the car. The Rally stripes are adhesive-backed and are offered in grey, black or white. They're part of a broader range of heritage-inspired graphics that also include "hockey stick" stripes for the front fenders.

Chevy designers further enhanced the concept with a Pedders coil-over lowering kit and a set of large, Brembo brakes, as well as color-coordinating the Jet Black interior with Synergy Green accent stitching, piping and other accents. The lowering kit, brakes and interior accents are not among the accessories offered for the Camaro, but represent common and popular aftermarket upgrades. Chevrolet will gauge public interest in the features for possible inclusion in future accessory offerings.


Camaro Chroma
It looks like the custom creation of a tuner shop, but the Camaro Chroma simply demonstrates how carefully selected accessories available through Chevy dealers can create a look like nothing else. The Camaro Chroma is based on an SS/RS model in Summit White and uses a combination of current and not-yet-released components, including:
* A new silver stripe package
* 21-inch wheels (future product, with silver-painted spoke centers and a Victory Red stripe)
* "Blade" rear spoiler (future product)
* Summit White ground effects package
* Rear fender vent graphics
* Accessory front grille with body-color outer frame (future accessory)

"With its silver graphics on the Summit White paint, this car has a tailored, tone-on-tone appearance that is simultaneously racy and subdued," said Todd Parker, design manager, GM Accessory Studio. "It is a sophisticated-looking car that is easily duplicated by any customer, because all of the parts are available to build it."

From a performance standpoint, the Camaro Chroma's standard LS3 V-8 engine is equipped with current accessories, including a performance intake, shorty headers and performance exhaust system. There's also a Victory Red engine cover and a Hurst short-throw shifter for the six-speed manual transmission, as well as red-painted Brembo brake calipers.

Inside, the black-and-grey leather seats feature red accent stitching, as do the shifter boot, floor mats and door trim. Accessory inserts for the dashboard and door panels (in silver) are also included as available accessories.

"What's great about the Camaro Chroma is it speaks to the almost unlimited possibilities that the accessories offer," said Parker. "You can build your Camaro mild or wild, but build it your way."


Camaro Dusk
Inspired by the style of young, urban professionals, the Camaro Dusk concept rolls with a contemporary tuner aesthetic. It is understatedly aggressive looking, with a lowered ride height, new 21-inch wheels, the rear spoiler from an SS model and a custom ground effects package.

"This is a car with an international flair, bringing the Camaro to a place it hasn't traditionally been," said Parker. "It is a very tailored look that is stylish and sophisticated, but with a distinct American accent."

The ground effects package includes a racing-inspired front splitter, rocker extensions and a rear diffuser. They are prototype parts that may enter production as dealer-available accessories at a later date; the same goes for the 21-inch wheels from BBS. Many of the details, such as the taillamp and fog lamp bezels, match the finish of the wheels, lending a more premium look to the car.

The Camaro Dusk's body is painted Berlin Blue, while the ground effects are painted a contrasting color. Additional performance items include the exhaust system and Brembo brakes from a Camaro SS (with painted calipers). The interior is trimmed in stylish Jet Black and Sedona, with complementing features including footwell lighting, premium door sill plates and other details.

Today's young professionals expect advanced technology and premium audio options and this concept delivers with a crisp, well-tuned Boston Acoustics sound system, WiFi connectivity and a convenient cradle for an iPhone.

Camaro Graphics
Camaro designers dreamed up half a dozen proposals for accessory graphics packages, with the intent of soliciting feedback from Camaro enthusiasts for possible production. Chevrolet then launched the graphics campaign in mid-October, asking Camaro fans on Facebook to pick their favorite design.

The top four designs were produced and brought to the SEMA Convention, where a Silver Ice Metallic Camaro will wear each contender on a different day. At the conclusion of the convention, after thousands of enthusiasts see the graphics on the car in person and on Facebook, another round of voting will occur. The top vote-getter will be considered for future production.

"Camaro has thousands of fans on the various social media sites and this is a great way to demonstrate that Chevrolet is connected to our customers," said Dewar. "With so many great designs to choose from, we're sure the voting will be close, but whatever the outcome, the real winners will be the customers who personalize their Camaro with the winning graphics package."

The Camaro Graphics display vehicle will be located prominently in the GM display during the SEMA Convention, starting on Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2009. At the close of the convention each day, the graphics package will be changed.

All of the proposed graphics packages can be viewed and voted on by logging onto Camaro's Facebook page: www.facebook.com/chevycamaro.

About Chevrolet
Chevrolet is one of America's best-known and best-selling automotive brands, and one of the fastest growing brands in the world. With fuel solutions that go from "gas-friendly to gas-free," Chevy has nine models that get 30 miles per gallon or more on the highway, and offers three hybrid models. More than 2.5 million Chevrolets that run on E85 biofuel have been sold. Next year, Chevrolet will soon offer the Volt, an extended-range electric vehicle scheduled for production in late 2010. Chevy delivers expressive design, spirited performance and provides the best value in every segment in which it competes. More information on Chevrolet can be found at www.chevrolet.com.


Saturday, November 7, 2009

SEMA 2009: Lingenfelter T/A Concept


Will the real Camaro-based Firebird recreation please stand up? We will make a case for this, the Lingenfelter T/A concept, since it really looks like a modern day version of a 455 Super Duty.

While the looks of the car are stunning and retro, it isn't all about looks. Under the hood lies a genuine 455 V8 packing 655 horsepower and 610 lb-ft torque. Check out the press release below for full details.



PRESS RELEASE:

DECATUR, Ind. - Creating vehicles with astounding performance capabilities and "stop-in-your-tracks" curb appeal is nothing new for Lingenfelter Performance Engineering (LPE), and they've done it once again with their newest concept car the Lingenfelter T/A.

Readied for its debut in the Nitto Tire booth #46115 at the 2009 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show at the Las Vegas Convention Center, Las Vegas, the Lingenfelter T/A utilizes "all the styling and muscle from the past combined with the technology and elegance of today," according to Ken Lingenfelter, owner of Lingenfelter Performance Engineering.

The vehicle, a modified 2010 Camaro with exhaustive engine and performance refinements as well as custom-molded body styling, harkens to the muscle-heavy '70s cars so beloved by enthusiasts.

"Lingenfelter Performance Engineering designed and built this vehicle with one goal in mind - to celebrate, in a most pronounced manner, America's muscle-car heritage," said Lingenfelter. "Just one look at its spirited design is all it takes to realize Lingenfelter knows power. And a turn of the key confirms that fact as all 650 horses start running."

First and foremost is the Lingenfelter T/A's power plant - a custom Racing Head Service (RHS) aluminum engine block with an impressive 455 cubic inch displacement. It features 4.155" bore Diamond 11.5:1 compression ratio pistons and a 4.200" stroke Lunati forged crankshaft. Lingenfelter Performance Engineering-brand CNC ported and polished LS7 heads and an LSX FAST 102 intake finish off the engine, which produces 655 hp and 610 ft.-lbs. of torque.

To assist the Lingenfelter T/A in handling that raw power, the car also features a Lingenfelter 6-bolt LS9 twin disk flywheel and clutch assembly and heavy-duty Driveshaft Shop halfshafts.

Body enhancements to the Lingenfelter Performance Engineering concept vehicle include a dramatic new hood with a shaker scoop and blue keyed stripe. A new front fascia borrows from the vehicle's inspired muscle car heritage, and incorporates custom head lamps, grille and turn signals for authentic detailing. The car's fender has a functional side extractor scoop and the rear quarter has a leading edge wheel flair. Dramatic details in the back again point to the vehicle's 1970s roots. Rear corners of the car have been extended nearly 4-inch with a wrapped down stand-up spoiler. Custom-created taillight housings nicely complement the package.

Wheels are custom designed 20-inch Honeycomb's with bright brushed aluminum details and are shorn with Nitto Tires in size 275/40ZR20 fronts and 315/35ZR20 rears.

A custom-designed CORSA Performance stainless steel exhaust provides even more torque for the Lingenfelter T/A concept vehicle, which is finished in an icy, bright white with an electric blue stripe running from front to rear.

Finally, to complete the muscle car experience, bright blue woven vinyl seat inserts and metal turned instrument panel accents highlight the interior. And Lingenfelter badges, indicating the vehicle's authenticity as a certified Lingenfelter creation, adorn the exterior.

For more than 30 years, Lingenfelter Performance Engineering has created a matchless heritage of bringing astounding new capabilities to the world's most sought-after sports cars. This legendary record of precision engineering continues today, as the highly skilled Lingenfelter production team continues to target design excellence in engine packages, superchargers and high-performance aftermarket components that refine power, speed and control. For more information, visit www.lingenfelter.com, contact Lingenfelter Performance Engineering at 1557 Winchester Road, Decatur, IN 46733, or call 260.724.2552.


Sunday, November 1, 2009

Pictured: Lingenfelter 455 T/A Concept


Car and Driver is the first to snap some real life pictures of the Ligenfelter 455 T/A Concept, and it's a keeper. Lingenfelter isn't the first to take the looks of the Firebird Trans-Am and apply them to a Camaro body, but they have arguably done the best job.

It is likely that after the show is over, Lingenfelter could offer the body and engine package for light production or sale by kit. The engine is the real deal, a 455 CID/7.5-liter V8 that packs 11.5:1 compression, ported and polished LS7 heads, a new intake and a forged crankshaft. Altogether that adds up to 655 horses and 610 lb-ft. of torque.


Monday, October 26, 2009

Ford previews 2009 SEMA Mustangs

Ford Mustangs and the aftermarket go together like peanut butter and jelly, and the annual SEMA show is the gold standard of hopped up pony cars. While there are historically great examples of aftermarket Mustangs at SEMA, there are also historically ugly and horrible examples as well. Either way, it's good press for Ford and it sells cars off the lot.

Ford has released a preview of this year's SEMA show and some of the Mustangs we can look forward to seeing under the bright lights in Las Vegas. The list promises to appease pretty much every fan of the venerable pony car, and promises to offer up lots of options for the new-this-year 2010 model.

2010 Ford Mustang by 3dCarbon


Galpin Motor Sports


H&R Special Springs


Paul's High Performance


Steeda Q350


Street Scene Equipment


Mustang RTR-C


Ford Vehicle Personalization


PRESS RELEASE:

LAS VEGAS – The Ford Mustang, America's favorite muscle car, is also the most customized car in the $31.8 billion aftermarket industry, and there will be no shortage of polished-up ponies at this year's SEMA (Specialty Equipment Market Association) show, which is being held Nov. 3-6 at the Las Vegas Convention Center.

"The Mustang is an iconic car," said Melvin Betancourt, Ford SEMA design manager. "People always want to reinvent it, and everybody has an idea about what the next Mustang should be."

According to Allison Revier, Ford Mustang marketing manager, much of Mustang's popularity in the aftermarket is steeped in tradition.

"Many fathers pass down their classic Mustangs to their sons to restore," she said. "They form emotional ties to the car and create special memories."

But what really drives Mustang's success is a universally shared desire among owners to make their steed unique, says Revier. "The Mustang is a 'Look at me' car," she said. "You don't want to have the same Mustang that the guy down the street has. You want to stand apart."

In an effort to feed customization-hungry pony car enthusiasts, Ford recently launched the 2010 Mustang Customizer at www.the2010Mustang.com, a Web site offering an online experience that allows people to create their own virtual Mustangs, choosing colors and decals to complement the all-new design.

"Since we know the first thing customers do when they buy a Mustang is customize it, we wanted to show them everything they could do," explained Revier. "Some of it is concept – changing colors and stripes – but the site also gives us a chance to showcase our Genuine Ford Accessories as well as other aftermarket parts."

The response has been overwhelming. In just two months, more than 1 million custom Mustangs have been built on the site. "The Mustang Customizer allows users to get closer to this new product, as well as connect to the brand in a creative way because they can truly make it their own," said Adam Barrow, Ford digital marketing analyst. "Self-expression is what this brand is about."

Self-expression is evident with the Mustang project vehicles on display at this year's SEMA show, according to Revier. "They all look dramatically different, and that's what I think is so great about it," she said. "Everyone starts out with the same vehicle, but each aftermarket builder turns it into something completely distinctive."

Ernie Bunnell, vice president of sales and marketing for 3dCarbon of Newport Beach, Calif., says his Mustang is unique because it is a modern-day version of 3dCarbon's award-winning 2005 Mustang Boy Racer.

"We are introducing the 2010 Boy Racer – an evolution of styling from the old to the new," said Bunnell. "With its bold, aerodynamic design, this vehicle is sure to turn heads."

In addition to a 3dCarbon Boy Racer body kit, the red Mustang with white racing stripes features a front "E" grille, rear window trim, window louvers with gel decal inserts, headlight splitters and decklid spoiler – all created by 3dCarbon.

The official motto of Steeda Autosports, "Speed matters," is most certainly reflected in the Steeda Mustang that will be on display at SEMA.

"The Steeda Q350 is embodied with the very soul of Mustang performance," said Dario Orlando, president of Steeda Autosports. "It combines the dynamics and agility of a high-performance sports racer with the everyday practicality and comfort of America's original pony car – all in one integrated package."

The Steeda Mustang has an array of modifications, including a functional body kit with unique aerodynamic features, an upgraded street/track suspension system, numerous powertrain enhancements and a top-notch sport interior.

Ford Vehicle Personalization also will have a Mustang on display at SEMA. The vehicle, which features Ford Custom Accessories, sports a unique Carbon Black Metallic custom-colored exterior accented with satin gold 20-inch wheels and gold-tinted headlights and fog lamps. The interior continues the gold theme, with gold leather seat and door trim inserts, seat piping, steering wheel cover and shifter boot.

"Metallic gold is currently very much in fashion throughout the design world," said Mark Conforzi, chief designer, Ford Vehicle Personalization. "There is a wide variety of modern gold finishes that can be seen in fashion apparel designs from Stella McCartney, Dior, Prada and Alexander McQueen. I would like to encourage gold finishes on our future products, in subtle and technical applications presented in a modern way."


Tuesday, August 11, 2009

SEMA Preview: 2010 FlatBack Mustang


This year's SEMA show in Las Vegas is still a few months away, but that won't stop tuners from showing some of the goods they plan on bringing to the table in November. The first Mustang to be previewed for the show is this, the "FlatBack" from CGS Motorsports.

The black on black 'Stang features goodies like a two tone paint job, 22 inch wheels, Roush body kit, Baer brakes, KW coilover suspension, and a Whipple twin screw supercharger to up the pony count. Check out the press release below for all the details.

PRESS RELEASE:

CGS Motorsports is one of the leading manufacturers of High Performance Cat Back Exhaust Systems and Air Intake Systems for late model cars, trucks, & SUVs.

Besides being one of the leading manufacturers of Performance Products, CGS has also become one of the leading creators of many SEMA Show vehicles over the years. CGS has built several trucks and SUVs for the Big 3.

Once again, CGS is creating another SEMA Show vehicle for Ford, which will be showcased at the 2009 SEMA Show. They will be customizing a new 2010 Ford Mustang, designed by Sean Smith of SS Designs, and named "FlatBack"

This modern day street machine will feature custom matte paint by BASF Refinishes with paint preparation by 3M, 22" one-off Colorado Custom wheels, Pirelli Tires, custom seats by Recaro, coil over suspension by KW, body kit by Roush, Baer racing brakes, and a supercharger by Whipple Superchargers.

As illustrated in the rendering, FlatBack will feature a Matte grey metallic paint, with gloss black graphics. So be sure to check out the completed FlatBack at this year SEMA show in Las Vegas, NV.