Shimon Haber

The new Volvo S80, V70 and XC70

The new elements in Volvo’s new S80, V70 and XC70 are based on their humane approach which is Volvo’s trademark for more than 85 years. These elements raise the elegant sophistication of the models to a new level, says Shimon Haber. This is one of the most comprehensive model refreshes in the history of company, [...]

A beginning of a new era for Citroen

Soon Citroen will be presenting its new Technospace Concept MPV that will mark the future operating period of this manufacturer, states Shimon Haber. With Citroen Xsara Picasso, C4 Picasso, Grand C4 Picasso and C3 Picasso, Citroen has achieved a lot of success and became recognized as being a leader in the compact MPV segment. Since [...]

Shimon Haber - TECHNOSPACE CITROEN Concept

Chevrolet Corvette C7 Stingray

Stingray 2014 is the most powerful standard model of Corvette ever and offers around 450 hp (335 kW) and 610 Nm of torque. The car accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in less than four seconds. Just like the Sting Ray from 1963, the best Corvette delivers leadership in performance, offer revolutionary technology, beautiful designs [...]

Volvo in 2012

During 2012, which was marked by the global economic recession and the great challenges for the automotive industry, Shimon Haber thinks that Volvo has made some significant strategic steps that ensured them a successful future. Swedish company has continued to pursue their strategy of development in spite of the global unfavorable business climate. They presented [...]

Peugeot 208

Peugeot 208 is a city car that is classified in the B segment. It was launched in 2010 at the Geneva Motor Show, as a successor of the 207 model adds Shimon Haber. From the very beginning of the development that took place under the codename “A9″, this project was the most ambitious since Peugeot [...]

Kia Sportage road testing and detailed review

December 21st, 2012

shimon haber

I’ll start with one comparison. When a man climbs stairs, unconsciously the brain adds Shimon Haber, gets used to the height so quickly and accurately that if a stair is few millimeters larger or smaller can lead almost to a loss of balance, and you can very easily fall. What does this have to do with cars? What does this have to do with anything? Maybe nothing, but this is a nice comparison for making analogies.

This car is perfectly assembled and I stand behind this, almost perfectly. And what’s even more interesting, somehow I believe it will remain that way for quite a few years. Simply, it is a sentiment, not a claim based on experience or laboratory simulations. The fractures of the body from the front, the lights carved into the sides of car, the breaks in this part makes the car to look sporty , aggressive and distinctive, The curves on the back makes Sportage unique and that it will not be mistaken for any other car. The mask has the oval badge with three simple letters “KIA” while around it is a chrome frame. The “outbursts” of the chrome around the mask, above and below the characters, appears to be typical for Kia Sportage, because similar geometric figures can be found on the top of the windshield, and rear says Shimon Haber.

What is the Sportage interior? Simple and enjoyable. The steering wheel is in the perfect diameter. Visually three-way, and in fact has four arms on the steering wheel. The steering wheel does not require getting used to, and for what they thought I was not going to get used to is the shift lever. As I sat in the car it seemed somehow elevated. A transmission with a longer stroke and the ball on the handle that resembles like something already seen.

Porsche 918 Spyder will be faster than LaFerrari and McLaren P1

May 16th, 2013

shimon haber

Although Ferrari and McLaren versions with hybrid drive have more power than the Porsche 918 Spyder they will not be faster than the aforementioned roadster, says Shimon Haber. So at least say people at Porsche stating that their 918 Spyder will surpass its rivals in cornering. Regardless of the lack of power and greater weight what is more important is the better sorted chassis and suspension which should bring Porsche’s athlete an advantage over a lot more powerful competition.

Porsche is still not completely done with the makeup of its hybrid athlete. Although 918 Spyder in its production form was shown since last year, the company from Stuttgart is still polishing the aerodynamics and hybrid circuit, so that the car could bring even better performance than the previously announced 327 km / h and a sprint from zero to hundred is completed in less than 3 seconds. The final weight of the car will be 1,700 kg and despite the Porsche 918 Spyder will be heavier and less powerful than the competition like Ferrari LaFerrari and McLaren P1 it will outbid them both on and off the track.

Key thing for that is its drive which ensures a much higher speed when entering a curve which is not the case with the Ferrari and McLaren. Porsche earlier announced and a model with Weissach package which will take off the car an additional 50 kilos and for that package decided to go as much as 50 percent of the buyers of these 918 cars which Porsche is going to make, finishes Mr. Haber.

Shimon Haber - Concept of Mercedes-Benz GLA

The Concept of Mercedes-Benz GLA is ready to appear in Shanghai

April 18th, 2013

shimon haber

Those impatient are already counting the hours until the opening of the Shanghai Motor Show, says Shimon Haber. Among the impatient is also and Mercedes-Benz, which has just released the first public photos of their concept crossover GLA whose world premiere is expected there. The compact crossover is based on the new A-class will arrive in Shanghai in a concept form that will not be changed a lot before entering into production, and arriving on the market in the spring next year.

The Mercedes GLA has shown its face last Saturday at the opening of the new dealers’ showroom in Shanghai. This Mercedes novelty based on the latest generation of A class brings much masculine lines and serious face befits one crossover. The vehicle which Mercedes prepared for China is 4,380 mm long, 1,970 mm wide and 1,570 mm high, which indicates that the GLA is greater than the model on which it is based. Despite the larger dimensions of the vehicle, wheelbase remains the same – 2,690 mm.

With its robust character which is provided by a new bumpers, protecting them, roof rails, larger wheel arches, 20-inch alloy wheels wearing 255/45 R20 tires and a new front grille complemented by new lighting circuits, the GLA concept also received and different suspension, adds Shimon Haber. Motorization should be the same as with the A-class and the 4MATIC all-wheel drive together with the 7G – DCT transmission. The interior of this vehicle does not differ too much from what offers the new A Class. There are just different combinations of colors and materials and slightly different front console.

Ferrari workers received three additional salaries and a bonus

April 1st, 2013

shimon haber

It is not bad to be a Ferrari employee. Every day you watch and listen to the world’s best race cars, and every now and then you are surprised by the excess money on your account, says Shimon Haber. Even during the Geneva Motor Show, Ferrari’s boss, Luca di Montezemolo said something about bonus that awaits all employees of Ferrari. All 3,000 employees in Maranello had already received three additional wages, and in a few days their account should lay down a bonus of $ 6000.

When during 2009 was made a plan for the period from 2010 by 2012, this brand has committed for any successful year within the plan to each employee pay an additional salary. Since Ferrari in the last three years has operated more than well, the brand leadership decided to fulfill their promise and each of the 3,000 workers pay at least $ 7000. We get this amount if we take as an example the lowest salary in Ferrari, which is around $ 2500, while the number that was recently paid out from Ferrari, at the end of next week will rise up for another $ 6000 – a bonus for last year’s excellent job.

Last year Ferrari again broke some records when it comes to selling their cars. The trend that is going on for several years now and the new models that Ferrari has launched are hint that this practice will continue on, says Haber. When money flows in from all sides then giving away such bonuses is not an issue, and Montezemolo has announced a new bonus that will come to the accounts of the Ferrari workers in 2015.

Shimon Haber - CLS63 AMG Stealth turned into a Clockwork Orange

German Special Customs has turned their CLS63 AMG Stealth into a Clockwork Orange

March 27th, 2013

shimon haber

German tuner GSC is weak when it comes to Mercedes CLS 63 AMG. Last year, this tuner has prepared a special set of aerodynamic extras intended for the previously mentioned car, says Shimon Haber. CLS63 AMG Stealth, along with some visual changes also got 750 hp and 1150 Nm of torque extracted from AMG’s 5.5 liter V8 engine, which was enough for the tuned CLS63 AMG go up to a maximum of 220mph and comes to 60 mph in just 3.7 s. German Special Customs has now refreshed the car, painting it with orange color.

CLS63 AMG Stealth except for its aerodynamic details was known for the matte silver film in which the car was wrapped. In order to make it even more attractive, GSC has changed this sports car with the use of orange foil. All those details that the Stealth package brought to CLS63 AMG are still there. Higher floor, a different front bumper, vented hood, new front and rear spoiler, rear diffuser and twin tail pipes are still there as well as the 5.5 liter V8 from which to the back wheels went 750 horses and 1150 Nm of torque.

In addition to the previously mentioned reinforced engine CLS63 AMG Orange from the Stealth model took and KW adjustable suspension. Orange color now also prevails and in the cabin where you can find the orange / black leather seats, central pillar, front console and panel on the door. That interior is further strengthened by details made of carbon, finishes Haber.

New Porsche 911 GT3 RS comes without manual transmission

March 22nd, 2013

shimon haber

The new Porsche Carrera GT3 revealed her face at the Geneva Motor Show, which is now behind us, says Shimon Haber. The novelty, which Porsche promoted at their 50th birthday, represent some sort of a departure from their tradition. The most visible evidence of this is the use of polished engine which can be found in the classic 911 model, instead of a machine prepared for competition, and nothing less than bypassing a tradition is excluding the manual transmissions for the GT3 model. This new implementation will also be used and for the upcoming RS derivative of this car, which is scheduled for year 2014.

Although such a thing is unlikely to appeal to supporters of traditional GT3 RS, the new Porsche 911 will also get electric powered steering and seven-speed PDK gearbox, similar to the sequential gearbox that Porsche uses in his racing cars. It will deliver a better handling to the new Carrera GT3 RS, similar to that of the current GT3 RS 4.0, while the dual-clutch transmission changes will result in faster and better times on the track and off it.

Porsche gave up from the manual gearbox for a simple reason – its use requires changing the whole configuration of the car, and since Porsche management are trying to simplify their tasks, PDK is the only option for the new GT3 RS, says Shimon Haber. Other than the, in a good deal, refined engine and automatic transmission, the new 911 GT3 RS will also get a new titanium exhaust, larger rear spoiler and aerodynamic modifications along with about 500 hp.

Kia Cee’d GT and Pro Cee’d GT are exhibited in Geneva

March 12th, 2013

shimon haber

While we were earlier introduced with the appearance of new GT models, one part remained extremely secretive until the Geneva Motor Show, which is now officially open to all visitors, says Shimon Haber. These were technical data Cee’d GT and GT Pro Cee’d that now we have at last.

Kia Cee’d GT and GT Pro Cee’d under the hood have same engine. It is a 1.6-liter GDI petrol engine with twin-scroll turbo which sends 204 hp and 265 Nm of torque to the drive wheels of the car. That power is quite enough to reach maximum speed of 230 km/h and up to a hundred come in 7.7 s.

This performance won’t cost you a lot because according to Kia, engine consumes 7.4 l/100 km and emits 171 g CO2/km.

Except for a stronger engine GT, another versions of the Cee’d GT and Pro Cee’d received refined suspension, a 18-inch alloy wheels clad in low-profile tires, and there is a much more aggressive look of both cars which is accomplished using a new front grille, larger and more aggressive designed bumpers, twin exhaust pipes, characteristic fog lights and red brake trained pliers.

Those who have already decided to buy the new Pro Cee’d GT will be further rewarded because the first 500 examples of this car will be with enhanced accessories like adaptive Xenon headlights, automatic air conditioning, panoramic sunroof, navigation, aluminum foot controls, a sports steering wheel with flat-bottomed, red-lit GT markings, special carpets and plate with the number “1st Edition” release, adds Shimon Haber. There’s still time to order one of these equipped cars because the new Cee’d GT and GT Pro Cee’d moving into production in May.

Shimon Haber - Land Rover Defender Electric at Geneva

Land Rover exposes its Defender Electric at Geneva

March 1st, 2013

shimon haber

It is more than certain that electric cars are the future of road traffic. More and more manufacturers decide to launch electric cars and electricity-powered version of their famous models, says Shimon Haber. They are now joined by Land Rover which prepares to enter the market with its model Defender All-Terrain Electric – electric version of its timeless SUV.

Land Rover Defender All-Terrain Electric is not a vehicle that will soon be on sale. This is just a test lab on wheels that should help Land Rover develop and improve its technology which will in the near future be implemented into their electric cars. Brits had completed seven of those SUVs that should help them in the development of technology that will be able to function in the most extreme and demanding conditions and situations.

In order to be created, Land Rover’s Defender had its classic diesel engine and transmission removed and replaced with an electric motor with 94 hp and 300 NM of torque. This engine gets its power from a lithium-ion battery with a capacity of 27 kWh. That power is in fact sufficient for easy driving with speeds not exceeding 50 mph. In terms of light off-roading Land Rover Defender All-Terrain Electric can be operational for up to eight hours. In order to fully recharge its batteries, vehicle need up to 10 hours using a conventional charger or four hours of using a quick, 7 kW, power charger.

Despite the greater mass, which was increased by 220 pounds, Defender All-Terrain Electric has retained all of its off-road abilities, and doesn’t even have problems with deep water, which in practice could completely disable an electric car. The only difference between the classical and electric Defender is the transfer of power to wheels. Instead of a conventional gearbox there is a gearbox with a 2.7:1 speed reduction. Its world premiere, this test car, will have next week in Geneva Motor Show, concludes Shimon Haber.

The new Volvo S80, V70 and XC70

February 21st, 2013

shimon haber

The new elements in Volvo’s new S80, V70 and XC70 are based on their humane approach which is Volvo’s trademark for more than 85 years. These elements raise the elegant sophistication of the models to a new level, says Shimon Haber. This is one of the most comprehensive model refreshes in the history of company, with a focus on increasing the quality and putting attention to details.

Numerous novelties on the exterior design strengthen the sophisticated advantages of the new Volvo S80. New front and rear bumpers give the impression of wider and lower car. The new daytime running lights give a modern look of the front, while the rounded tail lights visually make the car seem lower. S80 can be equipped with 19-inch wheels, with no loss in terms of driving comfort. The whole face-lift procedure is to give the car a sophisticated appearance, while chrome details emphasize the elegant premium feel, says Shimon Haber.

The new V70 comes with redesigned rear bumper, exhaust tailpipes, additionally has chrome accents and a redesigned rear lights. The car is also available with 19-inch wheels.

Renault Scenic XMOD arrives in Geneva

February 14th, 2013

shimon haber

After the presentation of Renault Captur earlier this year, Renault now launches its Scenic XMOD – says Shimon Haber. Sporty and stylish, scenic XMOD is a winning combination for a crossover looking SUV. With high ground clearance and special alloy wheels, the car boasts its design inspired by Crossovers: There is front and rear bumper, sill protectors and chrome roof rails. The new front end is also prominent with its distinctive LED daytime running lights.

In the new Scenic XMOD driver enjoys an environment similar to aircraft cockpits, with a unique center console and a series of controls. There is the all-new “Extended Grip” traction control system and a handle for multimedia management system which is close to hand reach. The dashboard with digital touch TFT screen controls the entire multimedia system. The best-equipped version of XMOD has flat-bottom steering wheel, pedals and gearshift knob covered with aluminum and an entirely new interior. The offer rounds up with leather package for seats and interior.

A beginning of a new era for Citroen

February 8th, 2013

shimon haber

Soon Citroen will be presenting its new Technospace Concept MPV that will mark the future operating period of this manufacturer, states Shimon Haber.

With Citroen Xsara Picasso, C4 Picasso, Grand C4 Picasso and C3 Picasso, Citroen has achieved a lot of success and became recognized as being a leader in the compact MPV segment. Since year 1999 the brand has sold nearly 3 million vehicles which carry its signature. Today, Citroen moves one step further with this dynamic and revealing CITROËN TECHNOSPACE, which probably displays the future look of CITROEN compact MPVs. The vehicle is going to be launched during the second half of 2013.

This model proves the actual Créative Technologie motto of CITROEN and marks the beginning a new era thanks to its:

- Extremely low CO2 emissions of 98 g / km which is achieved as a result of implementation of the new modular platform EMP2 (Efficient Modular Platform 2), an architecture that combines efficiency with optimized mass of the vehicle;

- Numerous technologies which should service the comfort, including a touch interface with a panoramic 12 inch screen with high resolution;

- Offering unusual proportions for the vehicle which connect the compactness (length of 14.5ft, width of 6ft and height of 5.3ft) and exceptional roominess with a record for the boot volume (19 cubic feet);

- A distinctive and expressive style of dynamic lines and technological headlights along with tail lights with 3D effects that are inspired by the latest concept vehicles of the manufacturer.

Shimon Haber states that TECHNOSPACE CITROEN Concept will be unveiled at the upcoming Geneva Motor Show, later this year.