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A saloon with features from the segment above

After the reveal of All-New Mégane in 2015 and All-New Mégane Sport Tourer in March 2016, All New Mégane Grand Coupé is the latest model in the Mégane family.

The new four-door saloon is part of the renewal of the Renault range. Its dynamic and prestigious styling is reflected in sculpted surfaces, well-balanced proportions, a Renault-family front end, and a distinctive C-shaped front lighting signature. The glass roof linking the windscreen to the rear window lends an elegant and aesthetic two-tone look.

All New Mégane Grand Coupé boasts top-level rear-seat space. The new model’s three-box body also benefits from a capacious boot (508 dm3 VDA) with easier access thanks to the hands-free ‘Easy Boot Access’ system.

All New Mégane Grand Coupé benefits from the cost-cutting CMF C/D architecture (Common Module Family) and brings motorists the same driving pleasure and superior features as the rest of the Mégane family, including a 7-inch colour TFT instrument panel, an 8.7-inch multimedia tablet, R-Link 2, Multi-Sense, Easy Park Assist and an extensive line-up of additional comfort equipment and driving aids such as Advanced Emergency Braking System and Lane Departure Warning. All New Mégane Grand Coupé meets the expectations of customers looking for a stylish vehicle with refined features.

Depending on the country, the engine range comprises of two petrol engines:

• The SCe 115, available with a 5-speed manual gearbox or a continuously variable transmission (CVT)
• The TCe 130, available with a 7-speed dual-clutch EDC automatic gearbox or a 6-speed manual gearbox

Three diesel engines are available, also depending on the country:

• The dCi 90, available with a 6-speed manual gearbox
• The dCi 110, available with a 6-speed manual gearbox or the EDC 6-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox
• The dCi 130, available with a 6-speed manual gearbox

All New Mégane Grand Coupé will be produced at the Bursa plant in Turkey and sold in more than 20 countries around the world*.

(*): All New Mégane Grand Coupé will be sold in the following countries: Algeria, Saudi Arabia, Australia, Bulgaria, Croatia, Egypt, United Arab Emirates, Estonia, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Israel, Latvia, Lebanon, Lithuania, Morocco, Poland, Czech Republic, Romania, Serbia, Slovenia, Tunisia, Turkey and Ukraine.

Citroën is today unveiling The New Citroën C3, the latest take on a best-seller that has sold more than 3.5 million units since 2002. With its distinctive design and colourful personality, it’s  brimming over with an exuberant freshness and optimism that will rock the market. Its unique morphology and original graphic features express energy and confidence. Audacious by design and extensively customizable, leaving full scope for individual expression. The interior is carefully thought out to make driver and passengers feel comfortable, to make each journey a pleasurable experience. And the car is fitted out with the very latest technologies, including a world première appearance for Citroën ConnectedCam™, an on-board HD camera that lets you share your road-trip photos and videos directly.

With the arrival of New C3 there’s a wind of change blowing through the motoring scene. The versatile little hatchback sets a style of its own, standing out from the crowd with its perky, colourful, appealing personality. New Citroën C3 offers a delightfully offbeat take on in-car living.

“The new C3 has all the Citroën brand markers and all the qualities to give the brand new impetus. A major challenge for our best-seller, which accounts for almost one sale in five in Europe for Citroën. A comfortable car with real personality, it is set to appeal to new customers looking for a modern car of character.” Linda Jackson, Citroën Brand CEO

The New C3 embodies the core values of Citroën:

• « OPTIMISTIC »  New C3 is audacious by design, with a strikingly unique morphology whose keynote features are a high-standing, charismatic front end and generous curves, producing a powerful, energetic posture. The slick, smooth outline, graphic signature and cool colours make New C3 an undeniable trend-setter. And the car’s strong personality readily accommodatesextensive customization capabilities, designed with a global approach, for coherence and value enhancement. This is an affordable mid-range model addressing a broad sector of the population with the promise of a singular car that can match individual tastes and aspirations. For the two-tone exterior, there’s a choice of three roof colours, plus colour choices for the foglamps, wing mirrors, rear C pillar graphic and Airbumps®. Inside, customers can choose between four different mood packs addressing three different motoring outlooks. As soon as you step in, the interior feels remarkably spacious, a sensation enhanced by the upholstery and uncluttered horizontal dashboard.

• « HUMAN » New C3 exudes an unmistakable impression of well-being. The design was guided throughout by the Citroën Advanced Comfort® programme, which charts an up-to-the-minute approach to Citroën’s time-honoured supremacy in motoring comfort. The sensation of superlative comfort starts with the seats, visually as well as physically comfortable, the panoramic sunroof that floods the passenger compartment in light, the ingenious stowagefeatures, and the generous space allocations. These first impressions are confirmed by the colours and materials, which draw overt inspiration from the worlds of furniture and travel,consistent with New C3’s aim to make people feel literally at home when travelling by car.The deliberately designed cocoon effect filters out disturbances from the outside world, and offers ergonomic usage with all functions accessible from the 7” screen, plus hands-free ignition. Equipped with 5 doors, the new C3 is practical while remaining compact with its length contained to 3,99m.

• « SMART » New C3 brings up-to-the-minutes technologies, starting with the world première of Citroën ConnectedCam™, a fully integrated and connected HD camera system that films your on-the-road experience for immediate sharing on the social network or for subsequent viewing (or as evidence in the event of an incident, for example).  Advanced driver assistance systems include: 3D connected navigation with speech recognition, reversing camera, lane departure alert, and blind spot monitoring. The efficiency of New C3 also extends to a full range of high-performance, high-efficiency engines (PureTech petrol, BlueHDi diesel) and the EAT6 latest-generation automatic transmission.

“With its unique body style, personalised features and connectivity, the new C3 is a bold, fresh, modern car. It illustrates the ongoing Citroën product offensive!”

Xavier Peugeot, Citroën Brand Product Director

01 «OPTIMISTIC» : AUDACIOUS BY DESIGN

1. Distinctively offbeat

There’s nothing like The New C3 on the road today, in terms of audacious design and charisma. Its offbeat attitude bristles with freshness end energy, backed by rugged strength. It shuns the usual stereotypes of its segment to prefer a highly individual and instantly recognizable outline of its own, lending a distinctively dynamic slant to the curves that endeared its predecessor to such a wide audience.

In volumes and proportions it takes on a unique morphology, in true Citroën style.  The high-standing front end is strong and compelling, giving a powerful impression of robustness with a horizontally balanced outline right through from the waist. The resulting vehicle posture looks natural and steady. The fluid curves and muscular flanks lend vigour and power. The pure, wholesome, unaggressive appearance is highlighted by potent graphic features. New C3 is different. It’s energetic and modern, yet calm and reassuring.

With Citroën’s characteristic two-tier front light signature, the car seems to looks upward, enhancing the impression of bonnet height. The double chrome bar underlining the chevrons runs right through to the LED daytime running lamps, enhancing the impression of width. The round headlamps express a strong technological content. The protective bumper below is in the body colour, again to enhance the sense of height and lend a go-anywhere spirit. The foglamps feature colour surrounds for a touch of sparkle.

Looking at the side, the first detail you notice is the floating roof held by the black windscreen pillars, and the taut roof curves accentuating the dynamic outline. The car’s protective function shows through clearly in the balanced proportion between body panels and glazed surfaces. The horizontal belt line continues the deliberately high bonnet line, producing a steady, stable, reassuring posture. Body surfaces are fluid and unaggressive, extending down over the wheels, which have the largest diameter of any car in this segment (640 mm), another strong character feature. The large wheels also contribute to vehicle comfort, making for a high flank (even with 17” wheels) and filling the arches, which can be fitted with extensions for a crossover appearance. At the rear, the generously sized, muscular wings give the car a dynamic appearance, an impression accentuated by the very short overhangs.

The Airbump® panels (air-filled bumps with a scratch-proof surface as seen on Cactus) are a Citroën signature feature, giving personality and style, as well as protecting the vehicle. The aliphatic thermoplastic polyurethane material used in the Airbump® panels gives excellent resistance to everyday aggression, from sunlight, water, ageing, scratches, etc. Each comprises six air-filled bumps at the door bottom, an especially vulnerable area of the car in an urban environment. The Airbump® panels have a white or red graphic, depending on the version.

The rear of the vehicle emphasizes width, with smooth surfaces providing an ideal backdrop for the 3D rear lamps, which lend a unique, high-tech identity to New C3. The lower protection affords good everyday protection. The C3 badge is different to that sported by the previous model: the figure 3 appears in black with a chrome surround, recalling the gloss black chevrons with chrome surround used by Citroën models since C4 Cactus.

In tune with its times, all-round attention has been given to aerodynamics on C3. The roof is 4 cm lower than on the previous model. And all surfaces are optimized allowing a clean a controlled airflow.

2. Spacious interior designed as a living area

The New C3 interior is designed to feel like an extension to the driver’s home, a place it feels good to be in. It’s welcoming, contemporary, intuitive and superbly comfortable. It’s safe and peaceful. The Citroën designers drew inspiration from non-automotive worlds (architecture, furniture, decoration, etc.) to define its volumes and materials. It’s also an incitement to escapade, expressed through detailed features such as the trunk straps on the doors, another little offbeat signature of the Citroën range.

The basic interior design principles taken up in New C3 are uncluttered space, consistency, full and soft shapes. The perception of space is immediately suggested by a horizontal layout, and especially by the horizontal dashboard, which runs right across the whole vehicles width. The uncluttered, monolithic dashboard immediately clarifies the simplicity-oriented design approach to the passenger compartment as a whole. Technological content is prominent, in the form of the 7” touchscreen that appears suspended in the centre. The chrome-surround air vents at either side of the dashboard again enhance the impression of width.

The dashboard design features a broad crosswise trim that lends a sense of both width and character. The customer has a choice of finishes for this feature, which makes a strong statement on design quality. It can be painted, wrap with textile or TEP lining, with or without over-stitching, and a chrome or colour surround. It matches the seat material.

The seats, key items in on-board wellbeing, have a unique design, wide and generous. Again we see the pervasive emphasis on width, a crosswise prominence amplifying the impression of space and expressing the virtues of comfort. The impression of comfort is further stated in the choice of bright, warm materials having a deliberately non-automotive look and feel. There is a very strong sense of overall stylistic coherence throughout.

3. Extensive customization capability, unique for a mid-range model

Customization is an increasingly widespread social phenomenon, in response to people’s wish to express their own personal style choices. New C3 is the first mid-range model to offer an extensive and coherent customization capability, which goes further than add-on colour choices to ensure a quality, harmonious end result consistent with both personality and value. Customization covers both exterior and interior. Exterior appearance choices range from pop to classic, from sportslike to trendy. And the interior mood can emphasize warmth and cosiness, or dynamism and technology.

Freedom of expression, to create a car matched to the driver’s personality, starts with the two-tone vehicle exterior colour scheme. There’s a choice of nine body colours (Banquise White, Perla Nera Black, Shark Grey, Aluminium Grey, Ruby Red, Almond Green, Cobalt Blue, Power Orange and Sand) and three roof colours (Opal White, Onyx Black, Aden Red), which make for 36 possible combinations in all. So customers might like to brighten up a classic body colour with a colourful roof, or moderate a perky body colour with a more sober roof. Breadth of choice is an important factor contributing to the fresh, modern stance taken by New C3.

Colour choice goes beyond the body alone, with various features taking on the roof colour to produce both character and good overall consistency. The roof colour is found in the foglamp trims at the front, the Airbump® surrounds at the side, the wing mirror shells and the rear C pillar graphic.

Interior customization takes the form of a choice of four possible moods, each expressed in upholstery material, matched to the dashboard trim, and various colour and harmony features. There’s something for everybody.

• The standard mood is uncluttered and neutral, with yellow over-stitched upholstery.
• The Metropolitan Grey mood puts the emphasis on warmth and brightness, with soft colours and textiles, on the dashboard trim as well as the seat upholstery.
• The Urban Red mood combines dark and bright colours to produce a dynamic feel. The lined dashboard trim features red over-stitching and has a red surround over the whole width.
• The Hype Colorado mood uses soft upmarket materials and special upholstery, with a colour contrast effect and width-wise signature, harmonizing with a two-tone leather-covered steering wheel.

02.  «HUMAN» : ON-BOARD WELLBEING

Design of New C3 was driven throughout by the Citroën Advanced Comfort® programme - global, contemporary, coherent comfort. This innovative programme seeks to offer driver and passengers the unique experience of feeling genuinely at home in their cars.

1. An overriding design emphasis on driver and passenger wellbeing

The sensation of wellbeing starts with the comfortable seats, the panoramic sunroof that floods the passenger compartment in light, the large stowage features, and the generous space allocations. These first impressions are confirmed by the colours and materials, which draw overt inspiration from the worlds of furniture and travel.

The emphasis on wellbeing pervades the interior mood, produced by meticulous attention to colours, volumes, materials and light.  Shapes are full and soft, there is no clutter, and there’s a strong width-wise design orientation to enhance the impression of space. Overall harmony is also expressed in the stylistic coherence between doors, seats and dashboard, with the same soft, bright textile affording visual continuity and sense of quality. The harmonious interior is eminently cheerful and optimistic. It’s practical yet offbeat. It’s everything but dull. New C3 innovates by inviting driver and passengers to feel genuinely at home.

The interior is spacious, the most spacious in this vehicle category. The visual impression of width, in the dashboard and seat design, is confirmed by the actual shoulder width of 1379 mm (2 cm more than on the previous model). And legroom for rear-seat passengers is top-level too. The line of the front seats and the shape of the seat back uppers gives optimum visibility, bringing the rear-seat passengers nearer the front for a friendlier in-car atmosphere, bright and homely thanks to the panoramic sunroof.

Great attention was given to the New C3 seats, which appear sculpted in a modern style to suggest generous width and comfort. Seat bottom and back dimensions give an immediate impression of space. The line of the seats is engaging, inspired by furniture design to suggest relaxation and extend an invitation to pleasurable travel.

The seats use quality exterior materials and supple interior foams to give excellent lumbar support and approach comfort. So comfort involves a two-stage process: soft and welcoming when the passenger takes the seat but firm and reassuring thereafter. The supple seat foams have another purpose, namely to filter out the untoward effect of irregular road surfaces. This is another important factor contributing to the overall sense of in-car comfort.

Particularly agile thanks to its 10.7m turning diameter of radius, the new C3 measures 3,99m and offers compactness in town. It has 5 doors and 5 places making it practical in all circumstances.

2. Advanced ergonomics for a smooth driving experience

For true homely comfort, the car also has to offer a hassle-free user experience, with fluid, intuitive access to vehicle functions. Under the Citroën Advanced Comfort® programme, New Citroën C3 was designed with ergonomics uppermost in mind, as seen in the numerous ingenious stowage features, the clearly staged presentation of driver information, and a wealth of intuitive technologies for making life easier.

New C3 promises great everyday practicality. Designers paid special attention to stowage facilities, designed for optimum functionality without compromising interior harmony. There’s an ingenious central cubby, designed to keep maximum free space at the front of the vehicle. And the glove box is the largest in this vehicle segment. The front doors have capacious and ingenious cubbies, in a light colour to contrast with what’s in them, making things easier to find. And the New C3 boot volume approaches 300 litres, which cuts down on the often difficult task of deciding what to take and what not to take.

A smooth driving experience also calls for an intuitive, interactive and responsive interface, which New C3 offers through its 7” touchscreen tablet, acting as the vehicle control centre. This provides modern, intuitive access to all vehicle functions, and makes for a superbly uncluttered dashboard. The tablet uses capacitive screen technology, for optimum response. And the groove at the bottom acts as a handrest, for optimally comfortable usability.

Convenience continues with the car’s hands-free access and ignition system, which means you can lock/unlock and start the car without even needing to take the key out of your pocket. The car recognizes its driver as you approach.

03 «SMART» : UP-TO-THE-MINUTE TECHNOLOGIES

1. Citroën ConnectedCam™

The Citroën ConnectedCam™ system is a practical, convenient and friendly Citroën-made technology making its first worldwide appearance on New C3. It’s a connected camera (wide 120° angle, full HD, 2 million pixels) with GPS and a 16 GB internal memory, fitted just behind the rear-view mirror, from where it records what the driver sees through the windscreen, logging the driving experience for two main purposes:

• The driver can click to safely take photos (scenery, sunsets, whatever), for keeping or sharing on the social networks immediately, or keep the button pressed to shoot films up to 20 seconds long for sharing once the car is stationary. Stored content is directly accessible for keeping or sharing via the free application Citroën ConnectedCamTM.
• In the event of vehicle impact, the system switches on automatically to record and save. The video can run for up to 1½ minutes (30 seconds before and 60 after). This footage can be useful as evidence following an incident

With the Citroën ConnectedCam application you can also geolocate your vehicle and store the position so that you can find it easily.

2. A wealth of useful technologies

The PSA Group A platform was optimized for this new model, bringing an excellent footprint/space ratio, an appealing morphology, and superb comfort and efficiency. For comfort, an advanced suspension system was used, based on a proven axle system architecture (pseudo Macpherson with deformable strut). This very effectively filters out road surface irregularities, letting the body “breathe” through minor vertical motion, a typically Citroën suspension signature. Soundproofing is as good as it gets, as is safety, with features such as the new “H” crossbar under the seats, for the best possible impact withstand.

New C3 comes with a choice of latest-generation highly efficient and fuel-economical PureTech petrol and BlueHDi diesel engines. There’s a choice of three PureTech three-cylinder petrol engines, with manual transmission: PureTech 68, 82 and 110 (Stop & Start). And there are two manual diesel powertrains: BlueHDi 75 (Stop & Start) and 100 (Stop & Start). For the ultimate in driveability and comfort, New C3 will shortly be coming in an EAT6 automatic version too.

New C3 comes with a vast array of useful assistance, safety and comfort technologies making life on board easier and enhancing the driving experience:

Technologies for assistance:

• CITROËN Connect Nav on 7" Touch Drive interface is a new-generation connected touch-operated satnav system controlled by voice or from the 7” touchscreen tablet. It ties in with connected services such as TomTom Traffic, for realtime traffic information, geolocation and price details for service stations and carparks, weather forecasts, and information on local points of interest. There’s also an optional “danger zones” service that provides visual and audible warnings of accident black spots and dangers, in realtime. Car-driver interaction is enhanced by speech recognition for navigation, phone and media. functions

• Mirror Screen technology duplicates the driver’s smartphone screen directly on the vehicle’s central screen. The driver can access to his multimedia content and monitor directly his smartphone from the digital screen. Available with Apple CarPlayTM, Android Auto (available early2017) and MirrorLink®.

• The reversing camera, with parking aids, switches on automatically when reverse gear is selected, to provide valuable extended-vision assistance during vehicle manoeuvres, in the form of a main-screen display of what’s behind the car, along with colour markers indicating distance to any obstacles.

• Hill-Start Assist helps with pullaway from standstill on gradients steeper than 3%, preventing unwanted vehicle motion down the slope when the brake pedal is released by stabilizing the car for two seconds.

Technologies for safety:

• Lane Departure Warning System helps guard against driver drowsiness and momentary inattention, at speeds from 65 km/h. If the car crosses a lane marker line without the indicator having been activated, the system issues a visual and audible warning.

• The Blind-Spot Monitoring System detects whether there is a vehicle in the blind spot, and shows this as a pictogram in the wing mirror. This system, which uses the same principle as a reversing radar, provides a valuable safety boost on routes such as urban motorways.

• Driver Attention Alert warns the driver when it’s time to take a break, i.e. after two hours’ uninterrupted driving at speeds above 70 km/h, then every hour thereafter.

Utility services:

• Citroën Connect Box with SOS Pack puts the driver in touch with a specialized assistance service. In the event of accident, a short message is sent in manual or automatic mode via GSM to a platform hosting the call processing service. The message includes vehicle identification, driver phone number and precise geographical location details.

• Services available through Citroën Connect Packs, requiring the Citroën Connect Box with SOS Pack and assistance, come in three packs: the Monitoring pack (free), which includes a virtual service log and eco-driving advice; the Mapping pack (optional), for geolocating the vehicle; and the Tracking pack (optional), which maximizes the chance of finding a stolen vehicle. Pack subscriptions can be taken out at the dealership or online on the website MyCitroen.fr

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS:

Length: 3.99 m

Width: 1.75 m

Height: 1.47 m

Wheelbase: 2.54 m

Boot volume: 300 l

DEARBORN, Mich., June 27, 2016 – The all-new 2017 Ford GT will be available in a limited-edition Heritage theme honoring the GT40 Mark II driven to victory by Bruce McLaren and Chris Amon at Le Mans in 1966 – part of the historic 1-2-3 Ford GT sweep. The car will feature unique interior and exterior color themes, and an exclusive wheel finish.

“Celebrating the anniversary of Ford’s historic victories at Le Mans has always been a part of the return of the Ford GT,” said Raj Nair, Ford executive vice president, product development, and chief technical officer. “The 2017 Ford GT ’66 Heritage Edition is a stunning tribute to the car that kicked off Ford’s string of Le Mans victories in 1966.”

The Ford GT ’66 Heritage Edition features a Shadow Black exterior in either gloss or matte finish with silver stripes and exposed carbon fiber package. The car sports Frozen White #2 hood and door graphics, and 20-inch one-piece forged aluminum wheels in a gold satin clearcoat with black lug nuts.

The interior of the limited edition model wraps the Ford GT carbon-fiber seats in Ebony leather, with pillowed inserts and plow-through stitching, and the seats’ head restraints and the steering wheel are debossed with the Ford GT logo. The instrument panel, pillars and headliner also features an Ebony-leather wrap, with gold appliqués on the instrument panel, the seat’s X-brace and shift paddles. Like the 1966 race car, the steering wheel is leather wrapped, with seat belts featuring a unique blue webbing.

Rounding out the modifications to the Ford GT ’66 Heritage Edition are a unique serialized identification plate, the #2 interior door graphic, and exposed matte carbon fiber door sills, air register pods and center console.

Garen Nicoghosian, exterior design manager for the car, says the team set out to highlight where it all started with the Ford GT. “While the looks are distinctly based on the GT40 Mark II race car,” he says, “we’ve accentuated new styling cues to provide a modern interpretation.”

Torsten Müller-Ötvös, Chief Executive Officer, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars

“With the Rolls-Royce VISION NEXT 100 we were mindful not to dwell on the past. We wanted to be as innovative as possible and at the same time transcend the design history of the marque.”

Giles Taylor, Director of Design, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars

In a spectacular event at London’s Roundhouse today, the Rolls-Royce VISION NEXT 100 was presented. The car defines the future of luxury mobility. Codenamed 103EX, it is the marque’s first ever pure ‘Vision Vehicle’.

The Rolls-Royce VISION NEXT 100 presents an intriguing and aesthetically dynamic vision of the future of luxury mobility  – a completely personal, effortless and autonomous Rolls-Royce experience, wrapped in a design that ensures a ‘Grand Sanctuary’ for its occupants, and a ‘Grand Arrival’.

The Rolls-Royce VISION NEXT 100 anticipates the mobility demands of the luxury customer of the future. Brought to life by Rolls-Royce after many months of study and consultation with current patrons of the brand, the car represents their clearly expressed desire for an assurance that the marque’s plans for the future of luxury personal mobility will continue to embody the key attributes that have made Rolls-Royce the preferred marque of the most discerning and powerful patrons in the world for over a Century.

With the Rolls-Royce VISION NEXT 100, the brand provides just such an assurance to its valued customers – present and future. It makes a bold and definitive statement of confidence in a future where Rolls-Royce rejects the notion of anonymous, utilitarian and bland future modes of mobility. Through an intimate understanding of its customers’ thinking and their demands in the future, Rolls-Royce presents an exciting and highly appealing vision of effortless, autonomous, spacious and beautiful luxury mobility, as personal as each individual customer.   

Background

This ‘Vision Vehicle’ is one of four announced by the BMW Group in Munich on 7 March 2016, as it launched its centenary celebrations – THE NEXT 100 YEARS. In addition to being the centenary of the BMW Group, 2016 also represents a seminal moment in the history of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars. 

For Rolls-Royce, the end of production of the seventh generation Phantom – considered by aficionados to be "the best car in the world" – represents the completion of the first phase of the Rolls-Royce brand’s renaissance under BMW Group custodianship. The success of Phantom, Ghost, Wraith and now Dawn serves as the foundation for a bold new chapter.

This highly successful era for the world’s most celebrated luxury brand has been driven by a restless commitment to always looking forward.

In this spirit, the Rolls-Royce VISION NEXT 100 is presented – a truly revolutionary, highly authentic exploration of the future of luxury mobility. It provides a fully authentic look into the potential demands and desires of the wealthy connoisseur of the future. 

The Rolls-Royce VISION NEXT 100 – a vision of the future of luxury mobility

In creating the Rolls-Royce VISION NEXT 100, the Rolls-Royce Motor Cars design team, led by Director of Design Giles Taylor, asked themselves the question, “How can we recast luxury for the next 100 years?” Within that question the team found that they had to address two further questions: “What will a Rolls-Royce owner expect of his or her Rolls-Royce in the coming decades?” and “How do we at Rolls-Royce today envision how we meet those expectations?”. These questions allowed the team to dream of the staggering possibilities for Rolls-Royce’s future.

Rolls-Royce intimately understands its patrons and their likely desires and motivations in the future. It understands that true luxury is deeply personal and that the hallmarks of every Rolls-Royce past and present are key to its future. The designers therefore distilled four key tenets that not only underpin the elegant solution that is the Rolls-Royce VISION NEXT 100, but epitomise the future of luxury mobility as a whole:

• The Personal Vision
• The Effortless Journey
• The Grand Sanctuary
• The Grand Arrival

In presenting the Rolls-Royce VISION NEXT 100, the marque has rejected the common notion that the future of personal transport is a utilitarian and functional one. Rolls-Royce has stepped bravely into the future to propose a no-compromise, fully autonomous, coachbuilt, personalised vision to those customers who wish for an emotional attachment to their car. This reasoning led them to the first key tenet: The Personal Vision.

The Personal Vision

The Rolls-Royce VISION NEXT 100, as presented in London on Thursday 16 June 2016, is but one example of a number of possible personal visions of a Rolls-Royce of the future. Indeed, in an evolution of the Rolls-Royce Bespoke experience of today, the customers’ taste will influence the exact design of his or her Rolls-Royce and how it will be configured.

In the spirit of the great coachbuilt cars of the past, Rolls-Royce will create the chassis of the future, hand-built from the most advanced materials and powered by a zero emissions powertrain. Advanced manufacturing technologies will enable customers to involve themselves even more in the design of the shape, size and silhouette of their personal Rolls-Royce vision. The future customer will commission his or her own concept. Rolls‑Royce will design and manufacture this personal vision of each customer and make every Rolls-Royce a unique Bespoke masterpiece.

In short, the Rolls-Royce VISION NEXT 100 utilises envisioned advances in technology to herald the return to authentic coachbuilding.

The Rolls-Royce VISION NEXT 100 is the vision of the Rolls-Royce Motor Cars design team, led by Director of Design Giles Taylor. Their deep understanding of the Rolls-Royce customer of the future and the world in which they will live led them to conceive of a motor car that would serve and augment its patron’s lifestyle in every way.

“The Rolls-Royce patron will continue to be a famous figure in the future,” explains Taylor. I envision that the Rolls-Royce VISION NEXT 100 will play a key role in these people’s lives, guiding and conveying them effortlessly through their life’s journey in an exquisite sanctuary where they can reflect in peace ahead of arriving in the grandest style.”

The Effortless Journey, the Grand Sanctuary and the Grand Arrival. The next three tenets and hallmarks of the Rolls-Royce VISION NEXT 100.

The Effortless Journey

For the 105 years since her creation in 1911, the Spirit of Ecstasy, modelled by sculptor and artist Charles Sykes, on Eleanor Thornton, has silently guided every Rolls-Royce and its owner through the momentous events of their lives. She has stood as an elegant presence at some of history’s most notable events. 

Today, the ‘Voice of Eleanor’ inhabits the Rolls-Royce VISION NEXT 100, delivering the dream of an effortless future to her owners. Digitally connected to every aspect of her owners’ lives and her surrounding environment, ‘Eleanor’ becomes their virtual assistant and chauffeur, freeing them of all effort and encumbrance. Imbued with her own artificial intelligence, she works intuitively to advise her owners on itineraries, schedules and options before they leave their residence, reminding about appointments and tasks and making suggestions to ease any anticipated impediments.

She ‘brings’ the car around when her passengers are ready to travel and, whilst conveying her charges to their next destination, helpfully but discreetly makes suggestions and recommendations, briefing them ahead of their arrival so they are ready to ‘perform’. And ever vigilant, ‘Eleanor’ safely delivers her passengers to their destination, having already predicted the situation and surroundings that await them.

This Effortless Journey is enhanced by the hallmark Rolls-Royce ‘magic carpet ride’ delivered through a blend of a futuristic, powerful, zero-emission drivetrain and advanced suspension that sees the vehicle almost skim across the road surface. As a V12 combustion engine is most unlikely to exist in the future, one can only surmise how this Rolls-Royce will be powered. A hint may appear in the Grand Sanctuary that is the interior of the Rolls-Royce VISION NEXT 100.

The Grand Sanctuary

“Simplicity is the keynote of all true elegance.” Coco Chanel

Already prepared by ‘Eleanor’ for the next journey in their event-filled lives, our owners are met by the Rolls-Royce VISION NEXT 100 which awaits their departure. Entering the Grand Sanctuary, our passengers step in unbowed, with consummate grace and dignity, as with the state carriages of old, taking their place on the best seat in the house. Cocooned in the futuristic but handcrafted lounge atmosphere, the coach door and clamshell canopy glide closed to envelop them in uninterrupted silence and luxury.

As one would expect from a Rolls-Royce, the environment of the Grand Sanctuary is crafted from the most precious and contemporary of materials. What is unexpected is the feeling of lightness and simplicity, an effortless elegance.

True to this spirit, the cabin is encircled by the most modern handcrafted fine-line Macassar wood panelling, sweeping across the interior from the coach door, continuing around behind the generous OLED screen and up beside the second passenger to the side of the sofa. This ensures a continuous, beautifully clean and sculptural surface when the screen is extinguished.

The centrepiece of the cabin is the beautiful sofa. The best seat in the house, it is an exquisite, futuristic interpretation of modern furniture design. Clothed in the most opulent fabrics, it gives the impression of floating within the cocoon of the cabin thanks to the artful use of lighting and modern materials.

Inspired by the early regal Rolls-Royces, but also by the ground-breaking work executed on the 2015 Phantom Serenity, the designers used the symbol of ultimate elegance – silk – to clothe the sofa. This most natural and sensual of materials is combined with wool to create a beautifully textured, ivory-coloured luxurious throne upon which our passengers are conveyed, and from which they command.

A final sensual touchpoint within the cabin is the finest one-off deep-pile ivory wool carpet woven especially in London, which our passengers can enjoy as they luxuriate in the ample space created by the removal of the chauffeur. 

This sense of space is accentuated as our passengers’ view from their seats is uninterrupted by a cockpit or steering wheel which are now superfluous. From their powerful position within the Rolls-Royce VISION NEXT 100, “All the world's a stage, and all the men and women merely players…”.

Should they choose to drop their eyes from that world stage for a moment and ask ‘Eleanor’ for visual cues, she will provide them on the transparent OLED screen that dominates the front wall of the cabin. Here our passengers can view information regarding their journey, their destination and the people they are expecting to meet. Or they may simply choose to retreat from the outside world and be entertained by their favourite show for a while.

Or they may just contemplate the finely crafted analogue clock that hovers in a central position above the screen, which serves both as a reminder of Sir Henry Royce’s humble beginnings as an electrical pioneer making electric dynamos, and of time as the ultimate luxury.

“Rolls-Royce design today is the epitome of elegance,” Taylor comments, “and this elegance is achieved through simplicity of design under which lies the technology that makes our patrons experience effortless.”

The Grand Arrival

Certain truths are constant over time. One of these truths is how the powerful have always understood the symbols through which they express their standing. From the lavish chariots of the Roman Emperors to the individually hand built state carriages and cars of Monarchy – such as the coachbuilt Rolls-Royce Phantom IV used during Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation – such fine vehicles have been designed to project the importance of the individual inside to those waiting outside.

Waiting with bated breath for a grand arrival, the crowds were never anything but impressed by the stately arrival of their idol. In the future, Rolls-Royce believes that its powerful patrons will wish to continue projecting their power and status in such a manner.

This truth is reflected in the most dramatic aspect of the Rolls-Royce VISION NEXT 100 – its iconic, imposing and futuristic presence which ensures a Grand Arrival for its occupants. Yet whilst it powerfully expresses the future of luxury, it remains constant to the iconic tropes of any true Rolls-Royce: The Spirit of Ecstasy, the Pantheon grille, the long bonnet and the iconic proportions of the entire vehicle.

The very size of the Rolls-Royce VISION NEXT 100 announces the importance of its precious cargo. At 5.9 metres long and 1.6 metres high, it mirrors the perfect dimensions of today’s Phantom Extended Wheelbase, whilst the ever constant Spirit of Ecstasy grows in stature, harking back to the regal Phantoms of the 1920s. Hand-crafted by the finest European glassmakers of today, she lights the way to the future of luxury. She is poised atop the re-imagined, yet still iconic, Pantheon grille with the red Double-R badge of an experimental Rolls-Royce.

From these timeless icons of Rolls-Royce design flow the graceful, sweeping lines and expressive surfaces that combine to create a completely futuristic vision of a possible Rolls-Royce exterior.

The polished metal of the grille flows up over the nose, around the base of the Spirit of Ecstasy and along the top of the suspended laser-headlight hoops, before narrowing to shoot down the side of the vehicle’s long bonnet, as a dividing line between upper and lower sections of the car. Not stopping at the extremes of the bonnet, this beautiful metal feature creates a beautiful ‘horseshoe’ as it flows along the top edge of the coach door, describes a parabola up and over the pronounced rear shoulder, encircling the rear of the glass canopy and back down the other flank.

This dividing line accentuates the car’s two-tone design scheme. The upper section is entirely comprised of dark glass. It flows fluidly as a daring fastback, creating a glass canopy over the occupants that provides privacy whilst allowing them to contemplate the majesty of the stars in the firmament above as they glide through the night; a window on the world ahead before resolving itself into the bonnet of the car.

The lower section is more dramatic in its design and in what it achieves. Draped in a silk-like ‘Crystal Water’ colour scheme, its surfacing achieves a lightness that belies the vehicle’s size. This is automotive ‘Haute Couture’. From whatever angle the Rolls-Royce VISION NEXT 100 is viewed, it seems to float, whether at rest or in motion.

This lightness is achieved through the paring back of this vehicle to the essence of a Rolls-Royce by the Design team, who were freed from their current constraints by the new propulsion and coach-build technologies now available to them. So, for example, where an engine would once have occupied the entire under-bonnet area of the car, a luggage compartment is positioned just aft of the front wheels.

In conceiving this bold vision of the future of luxury, the designers remain steadfast in their commitment to imbuing every element of the Rolls-Royce experience with effortlessness. The luggage compartment therefore opens automatically following arrival and disembarkation, presenting two Grand Tourer cases. In the case of the Rolls-Royce VISION NEXT 100, the cases are fittingly personalised to CS Rolls and FH Royce.

The newly liberated Pantheon grille is now the unencumbered prow of the Rolls-Royce VISION NEXT 100. It is the front of a fully enclosed and smooth-bottomed hull that echoes the form language of 1920’s Rolls-Royces, with its ‘boat-tail’, and within which the entire accommodation area is located.

Constructed from light yet incredibly strong materials, the hull ‘floats’ above the road surface as it is suspended from the vehicle’s wheels via exposed arms and struts.

The 28-inch tall but narrow wheels upon which the car glides are each hand-built from 65 individual pieces of aluminium, and enclosed to deliver the impression of a futuristic catamaran.

Seen from the side, the coachwork delivers hallmark Rolls-Royce privacy to the occupants as it rises gracefully like a fine cloak over the shoulders at the rear of the car. However, this fine drapery flatters to deceive as this rear shoulder line also imparts an air of powerful but graceful forward motion, accentuated by the rising beltline that thrusts upwards in a manner reminiscent of the great pre-war Rolls-Royces.

Whilst this radical new design language also contributes to an effortless, unruffled journey thanks to improved air flow and reduced air resistance, its unquestioned drama delivers a grand arrival.

Rolls-Royce and the art of the Grand Arrival

In the era of the stately carriage, and even of the early coachbuilt limousine, one was guaranteed an arrival befitting one’s stature. As we have seen, the exterior design and adornment of such conveyances announced one’s importance, as did the luxurious appointment of the interior.

However, one other aspect of such vehicles contributed to their suitability for such occasions: their elevated position, suspended as they were on large wheels. Combined with the high ceiling typical of carriage or limousine, one could normally stand before stepping out in a graceful and dignified manner. Modern aerodynamic considerations meant that even modern limousines’ rooflines had to be lowered, thereby reducing headroom and requiring one to stoop slightly when alighting from one’s vehicle.

Unwilling to accept such stricture and compromise in the future, Giles Taylor and his team set to work to reinstate the Grand Arrival as it should be. 

The Grand Arrival of the Rolls-Royce VISION NEXT 100 is first signalled by the Spirit of Ecstasy and Pantheon grille illuminating to cast an ethereal, otherworldly glow from the front of the car. As this vision of the future gracefully sweeps up to its destination, the ethereal glow spreads from the trailing edge of the front wheel arch to the rear of the single coach door, signalling that something momentous is about to happen. As the Rolls-Royce VISION NEXT 100 gracefully comes to a halt, something magnificent occurs.

Hinged on the left of the vehicle, the glass canopy lifts to allow the occupant to stand whilst providing shelter from above and behind. Then, in one effortless movement, the single coach door sweeps open and a step emerges from below the running board. As a final flourish, a red light is projected, carpet-like, from the underside of the step as a welcome.

Thus, as in Botticelli’s ‘The Birth of Venus’, our guest is framed and ready to step gracefully into the limelight and greet their audience.

“The Grand Arrival gesture of the Rolls-Royce VISION NEXT 100 creates a stage for our important passengers as they arrive at their ultimate destination,” comments Taylor. “It is an expression of our intrinsic understanding of the possibilities for a true luxury brand and the desires of its customers.”

The Personal Vision, the Effortless Journey, the Grand Sanctuary and the Grand Arrival. Rolls-Royce’s vision of the next 100 years. Rolls-Royce VISION NEXT 100. A vision of the future of luxury.

Virtual Vision

Rolls-Royce has also harnessed the power of the virtual space to bring the experience of the Vision NEXT 100 closer to those unable to personally see the vehicle in London.

The Vision 360 CGI experience immerses the viewer in a journey from Goodwood, the Home of Rolls-Royce, through to vision of the future of luxury. Viewers can enjoy and explore the fine detail of Rolls-Royce 103EX, guided by the voice of the original Spirit of Ecstasy, Eleanor Thornton, on YouTube 360°.

-Ends-

Further information:

Photographs of the Rolls-Royce VISION NEXT 100 will be available from 12.20 BST on Thursday 16 June 2016. They are to be found at www.rolls-royce103EX.com and the Rolls-Royce Motor Cars PressClub.

You can find all our press releases and press kits, as well as a wide selection of high resolution, downloadable photographs and video footage at our media website, PressClub. You can also find the communications team at Rolls-Royce Motor Cars on Twitter and Instagram (RollsRoyceMedia).

Note to editors:

A brief history of Rolls-Royce Coachbuilding: A personal work of art

"Taste", as the 19^th century American essayist Ralph Waldo Emerson noted, "is the love of beauty, whilst the creation of beauty is art". This could easily be the maxim of Rolls-Royce patrons – many of whom are known to be great collectors of art ­– as they commission beautiful coachbuilt Rolls-Royces, which are considered to be artworks in their own right.

Historically, Rolls-Royce's patrons demonstrated their excellent taste by commissioning coachbuilders such as Barker, Hooper, Gurney Nutting, Park Ward and James Young to create truly individual Rolls-Royces. These stunning one-off pieces presented deeply personal statements of taste to the world. Indeed, it was one such car, the Silver Ghost of 1907, which first claimed for Rolls-Royce the title of "the best car in the world".

For its first 50 years, Rolls-Royce was inextricably linked to the coachbuilders of the day, but as the passage of time and technology marched on, the marque would eventually join the rest of the motor car industry in designing and building pressed steel bodies, designed to serve as a perfect blank canvas upon which patrons of luxury could express their tastes and lifestyles.

Rolls-Royces, of course, remained at the pinnacle of car manufacture, synonymous with the most pre-eminent men and women of their respective eras.   

For example, between 1950 and 1956, Rolls-Royce produced the ultimate in contemporary luxury, the Phantom IV – built exclusively for Royalty and Heads of State. Only 18 of these cars were ever produced. The later Phantom V and VI coachbuilt cars were available to anyone with the money to purchase one. As well as the Heads of State and royal families, Phantoms were the motor car of choice of the newly wealthy. 

Futuristic Coachbuilding: A vision of the ‘Future of Luxury’

Rolls-Royce VISION NEXT 100

The renaissance of the Rolls-Royce brand was confirmed in 2003 with the launch of the seventh generation of Phantom. Since then Rolls-Royce Motor Cars has striven tirelessly to realise an intrinsically forward-looking vision of luxury on behalf of its patrons. Phantom has remained the “best car in the world” ever since, according to aficionados, experts and media alike.

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars also redefined the meaning of a true luxury good, from the inside out, through the medium of its Bespoke programme. Completely personalised marquetry, paint colours, leather or material treatments and many other exquisitely designed and crafted touches have resulted in some of the most beautiful one-off Rolls-Royces ever made. Witness the Celestial and Serenity Phantoms of recent years. They are the epitome of what a true luxury good is. Unique, hand-crafted, comfortable, beautiful and above all, rare.  

And whilst the only limit to what a Rolls-Royce can become is the customer’s imagination, certain time-bound present-day technology and scientific limitations have to be obeyed.  Human imagination has leapt towards the far reaches of the cosmos but our dreams are harnessed by technology and science. 

Now however, technologies are emerging that enable Rolls-Royce Motor Cars to lead with its authoritative vision of the future of luxury. The Rolls-Royce VISION NEXT 100 embodies that vision.

Affalterbach. From the world's most demanding racetrack directly onto the road: Never before has Mercedes‑AMG packed so much motorsport technology into a production vehicle than into the new AMG GT R. The front-mid-engine concept with transaxle, the twin-turbo V-8 engine rated at 430 kW/585 hp, the extensively modified suspension, the new aerodynamics and the intelligent lightweight construction lay the foundations for an especially dynamic driving experience. Even from afar, the exclusive "AMG green hell magno" special paintwork leaves no doubt as to the sports car's origin, having spent most of its development time in the "Green Hell" of the Nurburgring racetrack. Wider front and rear wings allow an increased track width for optimum grip and even higher cornering speeds. The new front fascia with active elements, the large rear aerofoil and the new rear fascia with double diffuser enhance aerodynamic efficiency and help ensure optimum grip. The lightweight forged wheels shod with cup tyres as standard are likewise designed for maximum driving dynamics. The same applies to other new features such as the active rear-wheel steering, the nine-way adjustable traction control system and the adjustable coil-over suspension with additional electronic control. What is more, the new AMG Panamericana grille emphasises the unique standing of the AMG GT R. Its characteristic form with vertical fins celebrated its world première on the Mercedes‑AMG GT3 customer-sport racing car and now for the first time features on an AMG production vehicle.

Mercedes-AMG continues to grow and is expanding the top end of its product range with the introduction of the new AMG GT R. "Our sports-car and performance brand AMG has its roots in motorsport and, ever since its formation, has repeatedly faced up to the competition on the racetrack. These genes are particularly prevalent in the new AMG GT R. Boasting a wealth of technological innovations, the new top-of-the-range model is proof of the close collaboration between our constructors of racing cars and road-going vehicles," states Professor Thomas Weber, Member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG, responsible for Group Research and Mercedes‑Benz Cars Development.

"With the new AMG GT R, we have reached the next level of driving performance. This road-going sports car with motor-racing genes and innovative technical solutions offers an ultimate driving experience that allows people to feel our motorsport origins in every fibre. It combines the driving dynamics of our AMG GT3 racing car with the everyday practicality of the AMG GT. Those with petrol in their veins will be thrilled by the radical longitudinal and lateral acceleration, the precise turn-in, and the sensational grip. We have modified all performance-relevant components and linked them together intelligently for maximum driving dynamics," says Tobias Moers, CEO of Mercedes‑AMG GmbH.

The data at a glance:

 *Kerb weight according to DIN, not including driver and luggage; **Kerb weight according to EC, including driver (75 kg)

The third member of the AMG GT family is the new spearhead of the AMG model range. Featuring pioneering technologies, the AMG GT R was designed with racetrack use firmly in mind. Its development was largely based on vast motor-racing experience in AMG GT3 customer sport and the German Touring Car Masters. Figures such as 3.6 seconds from zero to 100 km/h and a top speed of 318 km/h, combined with the outstanding driving dynamics, will undoubtedly translate into extremely fast laps on the racetrack. The new exclusive colour "AMG green hell magno" alone establishes a visual link to the "Green Hell", the nickname for the legendary "North Loop" of the Nurburgring, emphasising that the car's roots are firmly embedded in the racetrack. Sharpened racetrack performance comes courtesy of the intelligent lightweight construction incorporating aluminium and carbon, specific reinforcements in the body shell, the uprated twin-turbo V-8 engine with the specifically adapted seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, the innovative aerodynamics with active components, and the new suspension with active rear-wheel steering and uniball joints.

The concept with front mid-engine and transmission in transaxle configuration on the rear axle, a tried-and-tested feature of the AMG GT and AMG GT S, makes for a beneficial rear-biased weight distribution of 47.3 to 52.7. In conjunction with the vehicle's low centre of gravity, this translates into extremely agile handling and permits high cornering speeds. With a power-to-weight ratio of 2.66 kilograms per hp, the Mercedes-AMG GT R takes up pole position in its segment.

Close collaboration between design and aerodynamics experts

Aerodynamics engineers and designers worked together more intensively than ever during development of the new AMG GT R. The AMG design idiom of "Dynamic Presence" forms the basis for the far more expressive overall appearance and the very distinct look. Form follows function, and function supports form: All elements have an inherent technical benefit and contribute to the enhanced driving dynamics, while the aerodynamics experts have made the designers' wishes a reality. This networking even resulted in an innovation that now has a patent pending.

The design of the AMG GT R embodies sensuous clarity – hot & cool. Apart from the powerfully sculpted body and the motorsport components, the new AMG Panamericana grille is a real eye-catcher. This unique feature also comes from the world of motorsport and is celebrating its standard-production première in the AMG GT R: Its 15 chrome-plated vertical fins cite the look of the new AMG GT3 racing car. The basic form of the new radiator grille goes back to the Mercedes‑Benz 300 SL racing car that won the legendary Panamericana road race in Mexico in 1952.

Unbridled forwards thrust even when stationary: the front end

The low-slung front section and the forwards-inclined radiator grille create a distinctive "shark nose" impression and make the car appear to sit lower on the road. At the same time, this shape lowers the vehicle's back-pressure point, enhancing the flow of cooling air and the car's aerodynamic performance.

The more V-shaped arrow-like appearance of the front end also enhances the dynamic looks, thus embodying the uninhibited forward thrust of the AMG GT R even before it moves. A front fascia featuring a completely new-look jet-wing design (based on the A-wing) emphasises the feeling of width and lends the car a more road-hugging appearance. In terms of their shape, the large outer air intakes in the front fascia are reminiscent of jet engines. They ensure that the increased cooling-air requirements of the AMG GT R drive system are met. For this reason, they sport two aerodynamically shaped horizontal fins in place of meshes and as a result route the airflow to the radiators without loss.

The wide front splitter reduces lift at the front axle. Additional Air Curtains on the outside of the front fascia calm the airflow, improving the Cd value of the AMG GT R. Thanks to their narrow, vertical openings, the Air Curtains also guide the air specifically towards the wheel arches, optimising the flow properties in this area. To ensure ideal airflow through the double wheel arch radiators, the AMG GT R additionally features new and unique wheel arch liners with special cooling-air slits.

All-new active aerodynamics profile in the underbody

A special engineering feat is the completely new active aerodynamics profile, which is concealed almost invisibly in the underbody in front of the engine. At a speed of 80 km/h in RACE mode, this carbon component, weighing only about two kilograms, automatically moves downward by about 40 millimetres and changes the airflow considerably. This process results in what is known as the Venturi effect, which additionally "sucks" the car onto the road and reduces the front-axle lift by around 40 kilograms at 250 km/h.

The driver can feel this in the steering: the AMG GT R is even more precise to steer when cornering at high speed and exhibits even better directional stability. Especially during fast cornering and under high lateral acceleration, the AMG GT R delivers far more agile response with clear steering-wheel feedback while remaining easily controllable at all times.

In addition, the drag coefficient is improved. As a result, the downforce on the rear axle remains at an unchanged high level.

This innovation was developed using computer simulation at first and then optimised during many hours in the wind tunnel. The results were confirmed in extensive test drives, including on the North Circuit of the Nurburgring. The new-look aerodynamics profile is barely visible on the underbody and thus blends in harmoniously with the overall silhouette.

When the electrically operated profile is extended, the radiator air outlet opens at the front end and precisely guides the air flow towards the double rear diffuser, which therefore also benefits from an optimal flow of air. This improves the handling stability of the rear axle while reducing the temperature level of the hotspots at the rear. At the same time, the aerodynamics package ensures optimised stopping power by routing more cold air to the wheel discs specifically. To protect against damage, the component is spring-mounted and can therefore flex upwards easily.

Louvres control the airflow: the active air management system

Another technical highlight improving the aerodynamics of the AMG GT R is the active air management system. This system has vertical louvres positioned in the lower area directly behind the front fascia. These louvres are electronically controlled and can be opened and closed in around a second by an electric motor to improve the airflow and consequently the aerodynamic performance.

The louvres are normally closed ‑ including at top speed, during braking and when cornering at high speed. This position lowers drag and makes it possible to route the air to the underbody to reduce front lift even further. Only once predefined components have reached certain temperatures and the demand for cooling air is particularly high do the louvres open and allow the maximum amount of cooling air to flow to the heat exchangers. This calls for highly intelligent and fast control.

The overall aerodynamics concept of the AMG GT R ensures an optimal balance of lift and downforce in all operating states and furthermore reduces drag compared with the AMG GT.

Powerful and long: the side view

The front wings of super-light carbon add a total of 46 millimetres to the width of the AMG GT R at the front and make room for the wider track and large wheel/tyre combinations. The powerfully sculpted wings emphasise the longitudinal dynamics in addition. A further distinguishing feature is the special wing signet featuring a fin and a large air outlet through which the waste heat from the engine bay flows. This fin is perforated and incorporates the AMG diamond logo with five slats.

The side view additionally benefits from the new, optional AMG Performance forged wheels in matt black. The especially lightweight 10-spoke wheel is exclusive to the AMG GT R and its highly elaborate design includes a drop-centre rim, a milled groove and two high-sheen rim rings of different width. There are size 10.0 J x 19 ET56 wheels at the front and 12.0 J x 20 ET52 at the rear. The lightweight design of the wheels has three advantages: it reduces the overall weight, the rotatory mass and the unsprung masses. Efficiency and performance are enhanced, while the wheel suspension and steering deliver even more precise response, all of which also has a positive effect on the chassis and suspension control systems.

The wheels afford a clear view of the brake callipers, which are painted in yellow exclusively for the AMG GT R. New side sill panels make the vehicle look even lower stance on the road, while inserts in high-gloss black set an individual tone. The same applies to the high-gloss black caps on the housings of the door mirrors.

The AMG GT R comes as standard with a roof made of high-grade carbon to underscore the high-contrast look of the vehicle.

Emphasis on width and aerodynamic optimisation: the rear end

The rear end also features numerous, conspicuous innovations: The new aluminium side walls widen the rear of the AMG GT R by a total of 57 millimetres, creating space for the larger 20-inch wheels and the wider track. Both measures make for improved traction while allowing higher cornering speeds.

The wider design of the rear fascia with large outer vent openings and vertical swaging improves the airflow at the rear end, as does the double diffuser. The overall heat dissipation of the silencers is optimised as the warm air is exhausted by the double diffuser while driving.

A small air outlet is incorporated between the tail lamps for additional dissipation of the heat generated by the rear silencer. A further distinguishing feature of the AMG GT R is the large exhaust tip with centre spar, which is centrally positioned in the rear fascia. It is flanked by two more black exhaust tips on left and right in the diffuser.

The large rear wing is rigidly mounted on the hatch and increases the downforce on the rear axle. The aerofoil mounts are painted in vehicle colour whereas the blade is finished in high-gloss black. Depending on the type of use or racetrack conditions, the precise angle of the blade can be adjusted manually ‑ yet another technique also used in motorsport.

The result: all of the aerodynamic measures combined increase the surface contact at top speed by 155 kilograms compared with the AMG GT. The new AMG GT R therefore offers maximum grip, perfect drivability and a powerfully proportioned design that integrates the aerodynamic functions harmoniously. And there's more: despite its higher engine output, extra width, chunkier tyres, larger rear aerofoil, raised cooling-air demand and increased downforce, the AMG GT R has a lower drag coefficient (Cd) than the AMG GT.

Individual set-up: AMG coil-over suspension

The suspension of the new AMG high-performance sports model is also systematically designed for racetrack use. Wishbones, steering knuckles and hub carriers on the front and rear axle are manufactured entirely out of forged aluminium in order to reduce the unsprung masses. The double-wishbone concept locates the wheel firmly, with minimal elastic movements. The high camber and toe-in stability results in high cornering speeds and also provides the driver with an optimum feel for the road when cornering at the extreme limits.

The uniball spherical bearings on the lower wishbones of the rear axle are also inspired by motorsport. They are significantly more wear-resistant than wishbone bushings and due to their design have no play, which means toe-in and camber do not change even under high loads. As a result, the AMG GT R can be driven with even more precision.

In addition, the rear axle is fitted with a thicker tubular anti-roll bar. It has been adapted to the heightened driving dynamics requirements of the AMG GT R and saves weight due to its hollow design.

The new AMG coil-over suspension was designed specifically for the AMG GT R. Like in professional motorsport, drivers can select their personal set-up and infinitely adjust the spring pre-load manually. This makes it possible to influence the dive and roll behaviour as well as the grip of the AMG GT R precisely as needed to tailor them to personal preferences or to the particular racetrack.

The coil-over suspension is combined with the AMG RIDE CONTROL continuously variable, adaptive damping system. The system is electronically controlled and automatically adapts the damping on each wheel to the current handling situation, the speed and the road conditions. The damping characteristics are modulated rapidly and precisely by two separate valves for the rebound and compression forces in the dampers. A harder damping rate, for example when cornering and braking, effectively reduces rolling movements. The continuous adjustment of the damping to the current speed also ensures the best possible road contact even at high speeds, thus enhancing safety.

Furthermore, the driver can adjust the adaptive damping characteristics at the touch of a button in the AMG DRIVE UNIT or by using the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive modes. Three modes are available: "Comfort", "Sport" and "Sport Plus". The purpose of each of the three damping characteristics is clear: "Comfort" is the right choice for public roads; "Sport" is perfect for racetracks like the Nordschleife (North Circuit) of the Nurburgring, in other words for highly dynamic driving on partially undulating racetracks with maximum ground contact. "Sport Plus" is ideal for more flat, modern Grand Prix circuits such as Hockenheim and conveys a high degree of structural rigidity.

Conventional suspension measures include the wider front and rear track as well as the standard-fit Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres, of size 275/35 ZR 19 at the front and 325/30 ZR 20 at the rear. The street-legal racing tyres allow faster laps and up to 50 percent more mileage on the racetrack.

Agility and stability: the active rear-wheel steering

The new AMG GT R is even more sensitive to steering inputs thanks to standard-fit active rear-wheel steering, which is being used for the first time on a Mercedes-AMG model. The system offers an ideal combination of agility and stability ‑ handling characteristics that are normally in direct conflict.

Two steering actuators replace the conventional control arms on the rear axle of the AMG GT R. At the heart of the system are two electro-mechanical actuators (electric motors with jackscrew) that are not mechanically connected to the steering wheel. This "by-wire" system adjusts the rear wheels within a predefined operating map by means of electronic control. The maximum toe angle change on the rear wheels of the AMG GT R is 1.5 degrees.

Up to a speed of 100 km/h, the rear wheels are turned in the opposite direction to the front wheels, corresponding to a virtual shortening of the wheelbase. The advantage of the AMG GT R is far more agile when steering into bends, resulting in even greater driving enjoyment and less steering effort ‑ especially on small and winding roads, narrow racetracks on which there are multiple changes in direction, or slalom courses. Further benefits include increased manoeuvrability and a smaller turning circle in everyday driving situations ‑ such as when turning or parking.

Once the speed of the AMG GT R exceeds 100 km/h, the system turns the rear wheels in the same direction as the front wheels, corresponding to a virtual lengthening of the wheelbase and improving handling stability. At the same time, the lateral force on the rear wheels builds up considerably faster when changing direction, which makes the response to steering inputs quicker. Drivers also notice that the AMG GT R delivers massive grip on the rear axle and strong stability during fast changes in direction without the otherwise perceivable twitching effect at the rear end.

The active rear-wheel steering not only improves cornering, it also assists the driver in the event of sudden evasive manoeuvres and thus enhances active safety, This makes the AMG GT R easier to control at the limit.

The standard 3-stage ESP® with the settings "ESP ON", "ESP SPORT Handling Mode" and "ESP OFF" works in perfect unison with the limited-slip differential and is optimally tuned to the outstanding driving dynamics of the AMG GT R. The programming for the ESP OFF mode is taken from the AMG GT3.

Grip to the power of nine: AMG TRACTION CONTROL

In ESP OFF mode, another innovation allows the driver to exert even more influence on the handling characteristics of the AMG GT R. The new AMG TRACTION CONTROL system also comes directly from motorsport. It allows drivers to pre‑select the slip on the driven rear axle in nine levels. Just like in the current AMG GT3, it isolates the grip on the driven wheels and does not affect the stabilisation provided by the ESP®. Corresponding characteristic maps are programmed into the vehicle electronics to this end.

Control is via a special rotary switch located in the centre console below the ventilation outlets. Depending on the setting, the system permits more or less slip on the rear wheels ‑ very helpful in varying road conditions. Level 1 is programmed for driving in the wet with high safety reserves. Level 9 allows maximum slip on the rear axle. A luminescent band of LEDs around the rotary switch indicates the current setting ‑ this display logic likewise has its origins in motorsport. In addition, the setting is indicated on the instrument cluster's central display.

The AMG development has a major advantage over conventional systems in that it anticipates situations with the help of a virtual µ(mu) simulator and other data processed by a control unit within fractions of a second. The maximum permissible slip on the driven rear wheels is calculated depending on the selected AMG TRACTION CONTROL level. When the wheels reach this level of slip during acceleration, the traction control modulates the engine output so that this level is not exceeded and the vehicle continues accelerating with this specified slip. The effect of the electronic limited-slip differential is also included in the adjustment scope. This control therefore takes place without lag, further enhancing both driving enjoyment and performance.

The driver receives assistance for one of the most challenging aspects of driving, namely selecting the optimum engine torque and the optimum torque increase when accelerating out of a turn. Drivers can get as much grip as they want and have dialled in. The precisely measured power delivery of the engine when accelerating out of a turn is one of the most important criteria for achieving a top lap time.

Electronically controlled: the rear-axle limited-slip differential

As standard, the AMG GT R is equipped with an electronically controlled limited-slip differential on the rear axle, which is integrated into the compact transmission housing. Its sensitive and rapid control elevates the physical handling limits to a new level. It not only further improves the grip of the driven wheels, but also increases the cornering speeds at the limit. The system operates with a variable locking effect in acceleration and overrun mode, and is perfectly tuned to various handling conditions and road friction coefficients.

Variable ratio: speed-sensitive sports steering

The speed-sensitive sports steering features a variable steering ratio, which enhances vehicle handling and agility at low speeds while maintaining driving safety at high speeds. The power assistance is a particular highlight: It responds not only depending on the given road speed, but also according to the current lateral acceleration and the selected AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive mode. The result: The driver has a perfect feel for the vehicle thanks to the direct feedback from the road.

Ready to race: the interior design

To give the driver of the new AMG GT R ideal conditions in which to drive, the interior is also strongly inspired by motorsport. Extremely light, manually adjustable AMG sports bucket seats upholstered in nappa leather and DINAMICA microfibre come as standard. They offer the necessary lateral support even in extreme driving manoeuvres. Alternatively, tried-and-tested AMG performance seats can be ordered as an option at no extra cost. The optional yellow seat belts, dials with yellow highlights, the AMG Interior Piano Lacquer package and special controls, including those for the new AMG TRACTION CONTROL, underline the unique standing of the new AMG GT R.

The wide-looking dashboard is reminiscent of a powerful wing and continues the aviation design theme. Four central spotlight-style vents and the individual vents at the right and left ends of the dashboard reinforce this impression. In conjunction with the high beltlines, the concave-shaped door panelling and the dynamic centre console, the AMG GT R comes across as the ultimate driving machine and consummately integrates the driver into the cockpit thanks to the low seat position.

The shape of the dominant centre console reminiscent of a NACA air intake and the authentic materials suggest that it has been adopted directly from motor racing. Positioned centrally, the free-standing central display is another eye-catching feature. Attention to detail is also echoed in the AMG DRIVE UNIT controls: They are arranged like eight cylinders in a V layout, emphasising the powerful and hi-tech impression made by the centre console.

The new AMG Interior Night package likewise comes as standard. In this package, the shift paddles, steering wheel bezel, door sills and boot cross member are finished in high-gloss black, which combines with the standard-specification AMG Interior Piano Lacquer package to further emphasise sportiness. As an option, customers can order the trim in matt black carbon fibre.

More equipment, less weight: AMG Lightweight Performance

One key factor that influences the performance of a sports car is weight. Mercedes-AMG uses an intelligent material mix for the structure of the AMG GT R: various aluminium alloys for the chassis and body, steel for the boot lid and magnesium for the front deck. This extremely light element at the front reduces the inertia ahead of the front axle, thus improving the vehicle's agility.

The weight-optimised spaceframe is made of die-cast and extruded aluminium sections. The high bending and torsional strength of the entire design enables extreme linear and transverse forces from the drivetrain and suspension to be absorbed and transferred. Unwanted flexibility is thus reduced, with the vehicle responding precisely and directly. The result: The driver experiences a sports car with maximum dynamics that responds with outstanding precision.

Materials from motor racing

A host of further measures contributes to weight reduction as part of the AMG lightweight-performance strategy. A variety of components all play a role in this respect. The use of carbon fibre, the lightweight and high-strength material from motorsport, helps to achieve the ambitious goals. Carbon fibre is the material of choice for, among other things, the front wings, the roof and the torque tube between engine and transmission.

Now weighing in at just 13.9 kilograms, the carbon-fibre torque tube is about 40 percent lighter than its already weight-optimised aluminium counterpart in the AMG GT. As a structural component of the transaxle drivetrain, it creates a connection between the engine and the transmission with extreme flexural and torsional stiffness. It permits a very direct connection of the drivetrain that is favourable to driving dynamics and also plays a role in the vehicle's balanced weight distribution.

Further weight advantages come from the standard-fit forged wheels, the titanium rear silencer and fewer soundproofing materials. Overall the new AMG GT R is 15 kilograms lighter than the AMG GT S, despite incorporating far more technical features such as the large rear aerofoil, the rear-wheel steering, the active aerodynamics, and the body and chassis reinforcements.

New: carbon-fibre tunnel cross for maximum torsional rigidity

The AMG experts designed the new lightweight-construction component to reduce the weight while also increasing the torsional rigidity. The new carbon-fibre tunnel cross of the AMG GT R replaces three different aluminium components of the GT. The cross is mounted under the exhaust system and the torque tube.

It further stiffens the body considerably for withstanding the high torsional loads that occur during racing. To this end, it braces the two vehicle sides against each other even more effectively in the tunnel area for the torque tube, increasing the torsional rigidity by some 7.5 percent. This increase is especially remarkable because even the standard AMG GT already boasts a high level of torsional rigidity. After the first few metres already, the driver gets an extremely precise driving impression, which is maintained even in the event of extreme vehicle loads when driving at the dynamic limits. The fact that the body of the car is more composed allows even better control of the AMG GT R under difficult racetrack conditions such as fast, bumpy corners and means that less steering effort is required.

Over and above this, two diagonal braces in the engine bay stiffen the front end. In the AMG GT R, they are likewise made of carbon fibre and represent weight savings of about 50 percent over steel components.

Intelligent mix of materials: composite wheel-catch struts

The AMG lightweight construction experts use an intelligent material mix for the so‑called wheel-catch struts made of a composite material. In an accident, these components help to guide the front wheels onto the side members as part of the intended crash kinematics, and to catch them there. The composite struts are about 50 percent lighter than equivalent steel components. Compared with carbon fibre, a composite material has the advantage of being significantly more deformable while offering good material strength.

Fade-resistance and consistent performance: the brakes

The high-performance composite brake system ensures excellent deceleration and high fade-resistance with internally ventilated and perforated brake discs of diameter 390 millimetres on the front axle and 360 millimetres on the rear axle. The brake callipers are painted yellow.

A ceramic high-performance composite brake system is available as an option. The advantages of this system are a weight saving of 17 kilograms, a longer service life and even better fade resistance thanks to the ceramic brake discs with a diameter of 402 millimetres at the front and 360 millimetres at the rear.

More power, more torque, faster response: the engine

The heart of the new high-performance athlete is pumping stronger than ever: the AMG 4.0-litre twin-turbo engine in the AMG GT R has an output of 430 kW (585 hp), which is 55 kW (75 hp) more than the previous top-of-the-range engine in the GT S. The peak torque of 700 Nm is available between 1900 and 5500 rpm. 

The increase in performance was achieved with the help of new turbochargers with modified compressor machining, smaller wastegate aneroid capsule and sharpened engine mapping. The boost pressure supplied by the turbochargers has been increased from 1.2 bar in the AMG GT to 1.35 bar. In addition, the exhaust ports have been optimised and the compression ratio modified. The entire combustion process has been retuned.

A correspondingly modified application of the accelerator characteristics, charge-pressure build-up and transmission parameters ensures that the engine responds to load changes even more spontaneously and that gear changes are effected with even greater speed. The fact that the two-mass flywheel is 0.7 kilograms lighter than its counterpart in the AMG GT S likewise contributes to the highly agile impression.

The eight-cylinder unit thrills with its spontaneous response, precisely measured power output and linear power delivery with powerful thrust in all engine speed ranges, all of which makes the car far easier to control when driving at the limit. To make this possible, the sophisticated engine control electronics also take into account the current driving status and control the accelerator characteristics as a function of the occurring lateral forces also.

The AMG 4.0-litre V-8 engine features the tried-and-tested twin turbochargers, which are not mounted on the outside of the cylinder banks but rather inside the V configuration – experts call it a 'hot inside V'. The benefits are: a compact engine design, spontaneous response from the turbochargers and low exhaust gas emissions thanks to optimum air flow for the close-coupled catalytic converters. This basic principle of the new AMG V-8 family has been further optimised for the AMG GT R and enables further improved performance. The maximum charge pressure is 1.35 bar; the turbochargers have a maximum speed of 186,000 revolutions per minute.

For optimum power output even when outside temperatures are high, Mercedes‑AMG uses indirect air-to-water intercooling. With optimum flow of air and water, the intercoolers have a separate, two-stage low-temperature water circuit. The first cooler stage involves two parallel coolers in the left and right wheel arch. Together with the large radiator at the front of the vehicle as a second radiator stage, the system is even more effective than in the AMG GT S. The downstream water-cooled intercoolers ensure that the charge air compressed and heated by the turbochargers is cooled effectively prior to entering the combustion chambers. It therefore remains at a constantly low level even under full load. A large radiator at the car's front end ensures controlled cooling of the water circulating in the low-temperature circuit. Extremely short charge-air ducting makes for optimum responsiveness.

The combination of twin turbochargers and direct petrol injection with spray-guided combustion increases thermodynamic efficiency and output. Particularly fast and precise piezo injectors spray the fuel at high pressure into eight combustion chambers. Multiple injection occurs on-demand, ensuring a homogeneous fuel/air mixture. The delivery of fuel is electronically controlled and fully variable for a fuel pressure between 100 and 200 bar.

The aluminium crankcase is produced using sand casting technology and features a closed-deck design. This ensures extreme strength while keeping the weight as low as possible, and allows high injection pressures of up to 140 bar.

The NANOSLIDE® coating of the cylinder liners is also used in the Formula One engines of MERCEDES AMG PETRONAS. It is far harder than conventional grey cast-iron liners and therefore less susceptible to wear. In addition to this, its reduced friction in combination with the aluminium forged pistons helps to increase efficiency.

Four overhead camshafts control a total of 32 valves. Camshaft adjustment on the intake and exhaust side enables an excellent throttle response and optimises the gas cycle for each operating point.

The dry sump lubrication also ensures the oil supply even with high lateral forces and allows the engine to be installed lower, thus moving the centre of gravity closer to the road and forming the basis for high lateral acceleration.

The engine for the AMG GT R is also fitted by hand in the hand-finishing section of AMG's production plant in Affalterbach based on the "One Man - One Engine" philosophy. This means that each engine is assembled by a highly qualified engine builder who applies the strictest quality standards. This engineer is responsible for everything from installing the crankshaft in the engine block and assembling the camshafts to wiring the engine and filling it with engine oil ‑ as clearly evidenced by the signature on the AMG engine badge.

Even more suitable for the racetrack: the dual-clutch transmission

The seven-speed dual-clutch transmission configured in transaxle layout at the rear axle has likewise been extensively revised by the AMG developers, who modified the hardware and the software to make the transmission even more suitable for the racetrack. First gear in the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission has a longer ratio, while seventh gear and the final drive have shorter ratios to allow a more agile acceleration experience overall and very spontaneous response to fast accelerator pedal movements.

The previous limits governing shift performance and response time have been extended substantially. The RACE START function is now even more impressive thanks to the increased starting revs, the more sensitive wheel slip control and the sports tyres fit for the racetrack. Furthermore, the transmission cooling has been adapted to the tougher requirements of racing.

Drivers can tailor the AMG GT R to their personal preferences using the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT controller. Various modes are available: "C" (Comfort), "S" (Sport), "S+" (Sport Plus) and "I" (Individual). The "RACE" mode optimally adjusts the shift strategy of the dual clutch transmission to the needs of racetrack usage – shortest shift speeds and highly emotional engine sound are included. By pressing the separate "M" button in the centre console, the driver can activate the manual transmission mode in any drive mode.

Comfort and agility: the dynamic engine and transmission mounts

Dynamic engine and transmission mounts are likewise installed as standard in the AMG GT R. The engine and transmission mounts assume an important function in the case of a transaxle design: soft mounts improve comfort since they provide more effective decoupling of noise and vibration. However, handling and agility benefit from a generally stiffer mount set-up.

Mercedes-AMG resolves these conflicting objectives using dynamic mounts, which adjust their stiffness continuously and almost instantaneously to the respective driving conditions and handling. This function is performed by a special control unit, which identifies handling situations on the basis of CAN data, is connected to the electronic limited-slip rear differential and thus ensures optimum balanced driving dynamics. AMG has gone a step further in the implementation of this technology: the engine and transmission mounts are even actuated independently of each other. The advantage of this innovative solution is that it provides an additional substantial improvement in driving precision and lateral dynamics.

Pure sound: the AMG performance sports exhaust system

The specially developed exhaust system not only delivers genuine racing car sound, it also saves around six kilograms of weight compared with the AMG GT S thanks to the use of titanium for the rear silencer and thin-walled stainless steel for the front section of the exhaust system.

With its special, hexagonal form, the large tailpipe tip centred in the rear fascia emphasises the car's motor-racing character. Two more tailpipes are located on the left and right in the diffuser. Their tips are sheathed in carbon fibre like in motorsport to protect the diffuser against high exhaust temperatures. The exhaust system features two infinitely variable exhaust flaps as standard, which have a direct influence on the sound of the AMG GT R.

The exhaust flaps open and close depending on the selected AMG DRIVE SELECT mode, although they can also be controlled individually using a separate button in the AMG DRIVE UNIT. In the "Comfort" and "Sport" settings, the low-frequency sound typical of a V-8 is designed for comfort. In "Sport Plus" and "RACE" modes, meanwhile, the sound composition is far more emotive.

The market data

The Mercedes-AMG GT R celebrates its world première on 24 June 2016 at the site of the Mercedes-Benz World located at one of England's most tradition-steeped racing circuits: Brooklands. The car will go on sale on 21 November 2016, and the market launch in Europe begins in March 2017.

Volvo Cars has revealed performance-inspired R-Design models of the new S90 saloon and V90 estate.

Central to the S90 and V90 R-Design is an advanced sport chassis that delivers an energetic, road-hugging drive.

“R-Design delivers an edge to our elegant estate and saloon models in our 90 Series, with a winning combination of a sportier, more responsive drive with clearly visible performance styling,” said Björn Annwall, Senior Vice President of Marketing, Sales and Customer Service at Volvo Cars.

Sporting a new front-end design with spoiler-integrated foglights, the R-Design models come with a unique grille and piano black trim on both the front and rear. A new five-spoke matt black diamond-cut wheel adds to the performance feel.

A wide range of styling cues are included on the inside – from unique deco trim, pedals and mats, to the sporty contour seats and special steering wheel, including a high-level interior illumination package that radiates attention to detail.

Order books are now open for the S90 and V90 R-Design models. UK prices will be announced in Q3 2016