Ultimatecarpage.com update (01-24-06)

[Wouter Melissen]

Thanks in part to extensive rule changes, the 2006 Formula 1 season is one of the most highly anticipated in recent years. With the number of cylinders and displacement dropping to eight and 2.4 litres respectively, all teams had to start their development from scratch. Many of the engines had already run in hybrid 2005 racers, but this week saw the introduction of three complete packages. Earlier today Ferrari took the wraps off the 248 F1, which could very well restore the Scuderia's dominance. Always a strong competitor, McLaren showed their MP 4-21 in what is sadly expected to be run in a temporary papaya orange livery. It will be interesting to see how the part German, part Swiss BMW Sauber F1.06 will fair in the team's maiden season.
Somewhat overshadowed by the Detroit news was the introduction of a new powerhouse from Down Under; the 354 bhp Holden Commodore SS. Yet another highlight from the North American International Auto Show was the Mazda Kabura Concept, which combines the MX-5 chassis with an attractive coupe body. At the Lexus stand all eyes were on the latest generation LS. This highly advanced sedan comes standard with novelties like an eight speed automatic gearbox and body-heat sensors. Not quite as cutting edge, but equally interesting was the Lincoln MK S Concept, which might help Ford's luxury brand to gain considerable ground on the competition.

Enjoy the links:

Acura RDX Concept
http://www.ultimatecarpage.com/frame...hp&carnum=2666

BMW Sauber F1.06
http://www.ultimatecarpage.com/frame...hp&carnum=2663

Ferrari 248 F1
http://www.ultimatecarpage.com/frame...hp&carnum=2669

Holden VZ Commodore SS
http://www.ultimatecarpage.com/frame...hp&carnum=2664

Hyundai HCD 9 Talus Concept
http://www.ultimatecarpage.com/frame...hp&carnum=2627

KIA Soul Concept
http://www.ultimatecarpage.com/frame...hp&carnum=2618

Lexus LS 460
http://www.ultimatecarpage.com/frame...hp&carnum=2667

Lincoln MK S Concept
http://www.ultimatecarpage.com/frame...hp&carnum=2665

Mazda Kabura Concept
http://www.ultimatecarpage.com/frame...hp&carnum=2612

McLaren MP4-21
http://www.ultimatecarpage.com/frame...hp&carnum=2670