The NOVITEC ROSSO designer suit for the Ferrari 458 Spider Carbon aero kit, superlight forged wheels, 609 hp and 325 km/h

Haute Couture at the highest performance level: NOVITEC ROSSO not only tailors a thrilling designer suit made from lightweight clear-coated carbon fiber for the Ferrari 458 Spider. Superlight forged wheels in a unique staggered 21- and 22-inch combination together with a sophisticated suspension system featuring hydraulic ride-height adjustment make the drop-top sports car even more dynamic. In addition, there is a power increase to 609 hp / 448 kW and an equally lightweight high-performance exhaust system with sound management by means of a butterfly valve. Further custom details such as black lamps or interiors custom-tailored to the owner’s individual preferences substantiate NOVITEC ROSSO’s leading global position in tuning and refining the sports cars from Maranello.

Carbon fiber is not only the top choice in Formula 1 racing, but also for the NOVITEC ROSSO aerodynamic-enhancement components for the Ferrari 458 Spider. The designers concentrated not merely on striking looks, but first and foremost on aerodynamic efficiency, which was fine-tuned in the wind tunnel of the University of Stuttgart.

The standard front fascia is upgraded with a two-piece front spoiler and side flaps for further reduced lift at high speeds. To round out the carbon-fiber look the wings in the air scoops and the ventilation grilles in the front fenders are also manufactured from this material. Tasteful carbon-fiber covers on the exterior mirrors complete the ensemble.

NOVITEC ROSSO carbon-fiber sill skirts can give the two-seater an even more sporty side appearance.

Also made from this high-tech material are the NOVITEC ROSSO diffuser and the bezel surrounding the rear fog lamp. To generate even more downforce on the rear axle the Spider can be upgraded either with a tasteful rear spoiler lip or a rear wing – both made from carbon fiber as well.

Further NOVITEC ROSSO styling features are black taillights, which are also emphasized visually with carbon-fiber bezels, black side markers and the black auxiliary LED brake light.

The new NOVITEC ROSSO NF4 forged wheels perfectly combine visual assets with increased driving dynamics thanks to reduced unsprung weight. To give the Ferrari even more of a wedge-shaped appearance a staggered tire/wheel combination with diameters of 21 and 22 inches was developed. Despite their king-sized dimensions – 9Jx21 in front and 12Jx22 on the rear axle – these wheels with five delicate double spokes weigh just 9.9 and 13.5 kilograms. This makes the NOVITEC ROSSO wheels some of the lightest of their type in these sizes. Technology partner Pirelli supplies PZero high-performance tires in sizes 255/30 ZR 21 and 335/25 ZR 22. The popular three-piece NOVITEC ROSSO NF3 wheels with diameters of 20, 21 and 22 inches will continue to be available as an option.

Another NOVITEC ROSSO high-tech development is the hydraulic suspension system for the 458 Spider. At the push of a button in the cockpit the front of the car can be raised by 40 millimeters to navigate safely past curbs or to enter an underground parking garage. At a second push of the button or automatically upon reaching a speed of 80 km/h the front reverts to its original position. In addition, NOVITEC ROSSO sport springs lower the ride height of the Spider by some 35 millimeters. It goes without saying that the standard damper adjustment of the 458 Spider is retained fully.

NOVITEC ROSSO sport sway bars are available to further minimize body roll in fast corners and to improve turn-in.

This makes the 458 Spider perfectly suited for an extra helping of power. The most powerful version to date is the NOVITEC ROSSO Performance Level 1. In this case the 4.5-liter V8 is fitted with a special carbon-fiber air box with modified air routing and a NOVITEC ROSSO high-performance exhaust system. The exhaust system, manufactured from INCONEL, a highly stress-proof yet extremely lightweight material also used on exhausts for Formula 1 engines, consists of two high-performance manifolds, sport catalysts and a rear muffler. The latter is optionally available with a butterfly valve for changing the exhaust note with the Manettino on the steering wheel. The sport exhaust plays not only a crucial role in the increase in power by 39 hp / 28.7 kW, it also weighs 21 kilograms less than the production exhaust.

In order to perfectly coordinate the interaction of all high-performance components the engine conversion also comprises newly programmed engine electronics with custom mapping for ignition and injection.

After the conversion the engine produces a peak power of 609 hp / 448 kW at 9,100 rpm and a peak torque of 569 Nm at 5,400 rpm. Even more important for day-to-day driving situations are the even more aggressive throttle response and the moderately higher redline speed for further improved shift points. The Ferrari 458 Spider with NOVITEC ROSSO engine tuning reaches a top speed in excess of 325 km/h.

NOVITEC ROSSO goes beyond simply offering more power. The engine design itself is of an extremely sporty character with clear-coated carbon-fiber covers that turn the engine compartment into a feast for the eyes as well.

NOVITEC ROSSO also adds some outright racing highlights in the interior with tasteful carbon-fiber touches such as the center console that has been extended downward, the bezels above the speedometer and the climate sensor as well as with shift paddles that are longer than their production counterparts. Naturally there are also exclusive NOVITEC ROSSO all-leather interiors in any color imaginable.

C 63 AMG Coupé Black Series provides for safety in the DTM: The new DTM Safety Car: the most powerful C-Class of all time

A further highlight of the 2012 DTM season in addition to the spectacular new Mercedes-AMG C-Coupé will be the DTM Safety Car: right from the off, C 63 AMG Coupé Black Series will be providing the necessary safety for the world’s most popular touring car series. With a maximum output of 380 kW (517 hp), this two-seater is the most powerful C-Class of all time. The German Touring Car Masters (DTM) gets underway at the Hockenheimring on 29 April 2012.

The Safety Car is deployed under the direction of the German Motorsport Association (DMSB), which is responsible for implementing safety measures, ensuring compliance with safety standards and discharging the attendant official sporting functions in accordance with the DTM rules. The C 63 AMG Coupé Black Series Safety Car driven by racing driver Jürgen Kastenholz (44) is intended to ensure maximum safety for racing drivers, spectators and track marshals in case of dangerous situations, such as extreme weather conditions, accidents or other incidents. In response to a radio message from the race organisers, the Safety Car enters the track and leads the DTM field around the circuit until normal racing can be resumed.

The most powerful C-Class of all time stands for spectacular design, technology transfer from the field of motorsport and driving dynamics of the very highest calibre. As such, the C 63 AMG Coupé Black Series only required modification to a few points of detail for deployment as the DTM Safety Car. The most striking feature distinguishing it from the series production version is the aerodynamically optimised light bar on the roof. Energy-efficient, fast-response LEDs in green and orange keep the DTM racing drivers informed of the current situation.

Green: the two central green lights on the front and rear are always active when the C 63 AMG Coupé Black Series enters the field at the beginning of a Safety Car phase. Continuous green is the signal for all DTM drivers to overtake the Safety Car.

Orange: as soon as the Safety Car is in position in front of all DTM vehicles, the green LEDs are switched off and the orange LEDs are activated. The flashing orange lights at the outer ends of the light bar indicate that overtaking is absolutely prohibited.

The stroboscope-like flashing LED lights on the front and rear remain active throughout the Safety Car phase. The license plate with Safety Car lettering which is illuminated by LEDs on the boot lid provides for better visibility in poor weather.

Engine, power transmission, chassis, suspension and brake system corresponding to series production variant The AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine corresponds to the series-production engine: with a maximum output of 380 kW (517 hp) and maximum torque of 620 Newton metres it even tops the roughly 377 kW (500 hp) V8 engine in the Mercedes-AMG C-Coupé which is being used in the DTM. The high-speed naturally aspirated engine enables acceleration to 100 km/h from a standing start in 4.2 seconds and a top speed of 300 km/h (electronically limited). With the spectators at the race track and the TV audience in mind, the C 63 AMG Coupé Black Series Safety Car is fitted with a modified AMG sports exhaust system. The special rear silencer guarantees a distinctive AMG V8 sound.

Engine cooling, power transmission, chassis and suspension, brake system – these areas have been honed to perfection and did not require any modification. The AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission with four drive programmes, double-declutching function and RACE START guarantees direct and fast gear-shifting. As is customary in motorsport and typical for a Black Series model, the AMG sports suspension is designed as a coil-over suspension. It covers a broad range of adjustment options for an individual race track set-up. The standard-fit AMG rear-axle differential lock with locking effect in acceleration and deceleration mode combines with the 3-stage ESP® for reliable traction. The AMG high-performance braking system featuring motorsport-tested compound brake disks at the front offers extremely short stopping distances and fade-resistant deceleration performance.

Optional equipment from the AMG Performance Studio The C 63 AMG Coupé Black Series DTM Safety Car is equipped with the AMG Track package, the AMG Aerodynamics package, the AMG Exterior Carbon-Fibre package and forged AMG light-alloy wheels. The AMG Track package comprises active rear axle gear cooling and sports tyres. The radiator is positioned in front of the diffuser insert in the rear apron, where it effectively takes in the air stream. The specially developed Dunlop Sport Maxx Race sports tyres in size 255/35 R 19 at the front and 285/30 R 19 at the rear are fitted on forged AMG wheels which are painted matt black with a high-sheen rim flange.

The AMG Aerodynamics package includes so-called flics and a functionally designed genuine carbon-fibre front splitter on the front apron, plus a fixed carbon-fibre rear aerofoil with adjustable blade. All three components provide the vehicle with a sharper profile while optimising its aerodynamic balance. The AMG Exterior Carbon-Fibre package covers exterior mirror housings, the inserts in the side sill panels and a diffuser insert in genuine carbon fibre. All optional equipment items come from the AMG Performance Studio and are available ex-factory for every C 63 AMG Coupé Black Series.

Functional race-track atmosphere in the interior The interior also corresponds to the series production model, with a few exceptions. The two AMG sports bucket seats ensure optimum lateral support for driver and co-driver. In view of the intended deployment on the race track, four-point seat belts are used. Optimum control of the vehicle is guaranteed by the AMG Performance steering wheel in nappa leather/DINAMICA with flattened top and bottom rim sections and aluminium gearshift paddles.

AMG carbon-fibre trim featuring the “AMG Black Series” logo underscores the functional race-track atmosphere. For communication with the race organisers, the Safety Car is equipped with a two-way radio system and TV monitor. The camera located next to the rear license plate provides the co-driver with a view of the DTM cars following the Safety Car. Under the monitor there are four buttons in blue, green, orange and silver for operating the light bar, the stroboscope-type flashing LED lights and the horn.

DTM Safety Car provided by Mercedes-AMG since 2000 Mercedes-AMG has been providing the Safety Car ever since the beginning of the “new” DTM in 2000, alternating with Audi from race to race – and since 2012 with BMW also. In the Formula 1 World Championship, an SLS AMG is deployed as an Official F1 Safety-Car and a C 63 AMG Estate serves as an Official F1 Medical Car.

2013 SRT® Viper – The Return of the Snake

Street and Racing Technology (SRT®) brand’s flagship performance machine returns with more power and performance, superior craftsmanship, new technologies and creature comforts Two new models include SRT® Viper and SRT Viper GTS All-aluminum, mid-engine 8.4-liter V-10 delivers an estimated 640 horsepower and 600 lb.-ft. of torque – the most torque of any naturally aspirated sports car engine in the world Chassis enhancements bring 50 percent improvement in torsional stiffness Triple-digit weight reduction results in Viper best power-to-weight ratio Standard safety features include electronic multistage stability control, traction control and new 4-channel anti-lock brake system (ABS) All-new, innovative interior designs set new standards with premium materials, new technologies and superior craftsmanship All-new carbon-fiber and aluminum skin is sculpted for high-speed stability and a slippery .364 drag coefficient (Cd) Timeless exterior design incorporates iconic Viper styling cues with a contemporary execution

Auburn Hills, Mich., Apr 4, 2012 - The all-new 2013 SRT® Viper was unveiled to the world today at the New York International Auto Show, marking its highly anticipated return to the high-performance sports car market.

The fifth generation of the iconic two-seat, American-built supercar has been deliberately evolved to incorporate superior craftsmanship, a host of new technologies and ergonomic improvements while respecting its visceral legacy of outright performance.

“After a gut-wrenching period of uncertainty, the Street and Racing Technology brand team is extremely proud that our hand-built in Detroit, flagship supercar is back and ready to take on the performance car world,” said Ralph Gilles, President and CEO – Street and Racing Technology Brand and Motorsports, Chrysler Group LLC. “Beyond being the flagship for the new SRT brand, the launch of the 2013 Viper proves that we simply would not let the performance icon of the Chrysler Group die. Willed to live on by a very special group of performance enthusiasts inside the company and across Viper Nation, this SRT team under our new leadership was challenged to not just continue the legendary Viper, but to create a world-class supercar that would showcase the very best we have to offer.”

Two new models for any performance buyer

For the 2013 model year, two new models of the iconic supercar will be hand built at the Conner Avenue Assembly Plant in Detroit – the home for Viper since 1995. Both SRT Viper and SRT Viper GTS models offer new interior and exterior designs incorporating premium materials and new exterior surfaces with aerodynamically functional details that are beautifully integrated into the high-tech carbon fiber and aluminum skin. On the inside, designers and engineers strived to rethink all touch points; and upgrade all material appointments and technologies.

“The SRT Viper model is meant to offer a perfect blend of extreme performance and a deliberate preservation of what has become the iconic DNA of the Viper,” Gilles added. “We strove to deliver a supercar that continues to bring the driver as close as possible to the machine.”

The SRT Viper GTS builds on the DNA of the SRT Viper model with more technologically advanced solutions, like two-mode active suspension, to allow this world-class GTS to find new limits on the track while also opening up its envelope as a more premium and mature evolution of the classic, extreme performance formula. Designed and built with premium features and materials inside and out, the Viper GTS will compete with the best performance vehicles in the world with a wide range of creature comforts, advanced drivetrain and interior technologies.

“We’ve purposely evolved the iconic soul and raw performance formula that Viper has maintained over the years,” Gilles said. “Our returning customers will see the world-class levels of pride, quality and hand craftsmanship built into the 2013 Viper. With two price classes of the SRT Viper and SRT Viper GTS, we have offerings for both the traditional core Viper customer and for the new customer who wants the same performance in a package with more technology and premium creature comforts.”

Awe-inspiring V-10 powertrain

At the heart and soul of the 2013 SRT Viper is the venerable, hand-assembled 8.4-liter all-aluminum, V-10 overhead-valve engine.

Improvements for 2013 include a new, ultra-high flow and lightweight composite intake manifold, high-strength forged pistons, sodium-filled exhaust valves, new catalysts to reduce back pressure and an aluminum flywheel that reduces reciprocating losses. More than 25 pounds has been shaved from the fully dressed engine.

Preliminary performance ratings for the SRT-engineered V-10 Viper are 640 horsepower and 600 lb.-ft. of torque – the most torque of any naturally aspirated engine in the world.

The Tremec TR6060 six-speed manual transmission has been improved with a shorter throw shifter, closer gear ratios and a final drive ratio that has been shortened to 3.55 from 3.07. The 2013 Viper models will be more engaging to drive and top speed is now achieved through 6th gear with maximum engine speed (redline) at 6,200 rpm.

Outstanding ride, handling and capability

Starting with a stiffer structure that provides 50 percent more torsional rigidity, the chassis of the 2013 SRT Viper benefits from numerous enhancements – many learned through racing efforts with Viper GTS-R and Competition Coupe models.

Major updates include the addition of a new aluminum “X” brace under the hood that ties the suspension pickup points to the magnesium cowl super casting and contributes to improved torsional rigidity and stiffness. A new aluminum impact beam at the front of the car contributes to overall mass savings and improved weight distribution while providing excellent crashworthiness.

Structurally, many areas of the chassis were reworked to take advantage of new materials, reduce thickness in some areas and reshape components for more structural rigidity in others. The result is an overall weight savings of approximately 100 pounds.

At the rear, the suspension has been re-engineered with the toe link moved forward of the axle for better tow control and dynamic stability.

A new, driver selectable two-mode suspension system, featuring Bilstein DampTronic Select shock absorbers with both street and track settings, is standard on GTS models.

For 2013, SRT Viper models ride on standard Pirelli P Zero, Z-rated tires with substantially improved overall performance, cold weather performance, enhanced overall grip and steering response on a variety of road surfaces while also broadening the performance envelope. An optional SRT Track Package features Pirelli P Zero Corsa, “soft”-tuned, “racing-type” compound tires that improve handling and precision further on the road or the race track.

For the first time, standard safety technologies such as electronic stability control and traction control help to maximize traction performance at virtually any speed and driving environment.

All 2013 Viper models will come with a steering-wheel-mounted launch control switch, allowing for optimal acceleration from standing starts.

Benchmark braking

Stopping performance for the 2013 SRT Viper is engineered to provide shorter stopping distances, better modulation, improved durability and balanced brake performance without fading under extreme conditions.

Four-piston Brembo brakes with fixed-aluminum calipers, and vented rotors with a diameter of 355 mm by 32 mm, are used at all four corners. Brake calipers are forged and weight optimized by fully machining all surfaces. The calipers are among the stiffest available with distortion from heat nearly eliminated even under the most demanding braking conditions.

The available SRT Track Package features lightweight and slotted two-piece rotors from StopTech.

New premium materials, craftsmanship and technologies

The all-new, driver-oriented interior cabins of the SRT Viper models have been totally revamped for 2013 with superior craftsmanship, premium material appointments and performance-oriented technologies.

For the first time, all major interior surfaces are sewn and wrapped with additional padding applied in comfort areas. On the Viper GTS model, all surfaces are fully leather skinned, and standard accent colors are applied to the seats, doors, center console and stitching.

Quality fit and finish across the lineup is showcased by triple-paint-finished Gun Metal appliqués on the cluster bezel, HVAC outlets, window switch bezels, shifter base, park brake bezel and the integrated passenger grab handle on the center console.

Standard high-performance racing seats from Sabelt feature a lightweight Kevlar/fiberglass shell created by a state-of-the-art resin transfer molding technology for mass reduction and long-term durability. Both driver and passenger enjoy improved comfort from thigh support and deep side bolsters designed to match the extreme lateral acceleration capabilities of the SRT Viper.

Seating position in the 2013 SRT Viper models is 20 mm lower for more room and enhanced performance-driving ergonomics. Seat travel is extended by 90 mm overall, which enables expanded seating options from a more rearward positioned bulkhead. For the first time, seat height can be adjusted by up to 40 mm – manually on the SRT model and power controlled on the GTS.

The new 2013 Viper is the most spacious model in the history of the nameplate. The floor pan and bulkhead have been extended approximately 90 mm to provide improved legroom and more rearward seat track movement.

Designed specifically for the 2013 SRT Viper, the new 7-inch, full-color, customizable instrument cluster display uses a full-time analog tachometer readout in the center to confirm the performance driving feedback philosophy of the Viper. Drivers have a wide range of custom and personal options such as an additional digital speedometer readout just below the tachometer. The vehicle information is clearly communicated with easy-to-understand icons. Intuitively controlled through a simple four-way steering-wheel control, the driver can configure the screens to display the information they desire, easily mixing and matching information.

Uconnect® Access provides new level of connectivity

The 2013 SRT Viper lineup includes the new, next generation Uconnect® Access in-vehicle connectivity system that provides drivers with access to more information, emergency services, more entertainment and improved graphics.

Viper customers can choose between two Uconnect Media Centers, RA3 and RA4, which provide a range of new features and multiple ways to control media in the vehicle. The system includes an 8.4-inch touchscreen along with a set of hard keys for commonly used functions, including traditional knobs for tuning the radio bands and radio volume. Touchscreen buttons along the bottom of the screen allow drivers to easily access the radio, climate controls, navigation, phone, and new, select, certified applications. The new, highly sculpted steering wheel has a host of finger-tip mounted controls for audio, Uconnect, cruise control (first application) and launch control.

SiriusXM Travel Link also is available with Uconnect, providing premium data services and information to make every trip more efficient. SiriusXM Traffic works with the vehicle’s navigation system to display traffic speed and traffic flow information along with accident information to assist drivers in routing around congested areas. An expanded SiriusXM channel lineup includes exclusive programming, including the new SiriusXM Latino channels, an auto industry first.

A range of Harman Kardon® surround-sound systems are available across the SRT Viper lineup that feature the latest in audio system technology. All Harman Kardon audio systems include a high-voltage class D amplifier with tracking power supply and up to 11 channels of amplification. The Harman Kardon system with exclusive Logic 7 surround-sound processing is available in the Viper GTS model with a total of 18-speakers, including four subwoofers located behind the seats. All Harman Kardon systems in the 2013 SRT Viper lineup include high-performance, high-efficiency GreenEdge technology loudspeakers that are extremely light and include rare earth magnets. The magnets inside each speaker ensure efficient speaker operation and enhanced performance. The audio systems operate on 32 volts – so the new and improved sound system achieves more than double the acoustic power of the current system.

Refined evolution of SRT’s hallmark – aggressive and functional exterior designs

The all-new, timeless exterior design blends contemporary execution with evolutionary refinement.

All-new carbon-fiber hood, roof, decklid and aluminum door panels are firsts for SRT Viper models resulting in significant weight reduction, improved high-speed stability and a slippery .364 drag coefficient.

The forward-hinged hood carries the redesigned Viper badge – aptly named “Stryker” by the Viper Club of America – positioned in the center; and offers unobtrusive access to several service points and the SRT-engineered V-10 powerplant.

The classical low-stance and the extreme cab rearward proportions that have become the unmistakable silhouette of the iconic supercar, return on the 2013 SRT Viper models along with the dramatic fender “gills” – another traditional Viper design cue that helps to extract heat from the engine compartment.

The 2013 Viper models feature a contemporary take on the traditional “double-bubble” roof configuration that maximizes headroom for the driver and passenger while maintaining a low frontal area – allowing additional room for helmets during recreational competitive driving.

Dual-function, bi-xenon projector headlamps are tightly packaged with white light-emitting diode (LED) daytime running lamps and LED turn signals in a sinister “snake eye” configuration.

Functional “blisters” incorporated into the 70 mm projector headlamp lenses create a three-dimensional view that gives Viper a distinctive glare.

The lower-front grille is purposefully designed as an evolution of the traditional Viper low-profile cooling opening configuration and discretely carries a refined V-shape structure.

The exhaust system continues to exit forward of the rear wheels and now carries further refinement with cast aluminum, sill-mounted exhaust bezels.

For the first time, the 2013 SRT Viper models carry LED taillamps that integrate stop-and-turn illumination in one element. Snakeskin texture in the lens carries the surface work seen in the gills and hood textures. With dark-masked lenses, the horizontal lamps appear dark until the LED elements fire. Each lamp carries 50 LEDs that provide a unified “crystallized” illumination effect.

The five-spoke, forged-aluminum “Rattler” wheel design on the 2013 Viper model is available with fully polished (standard), fully painted Hyper Black or fully painted low-gloss black finishes.

The Viper GTS has a split six-spoke forged-aluminum “Venom” wheel design with three available finishes, including polished face with graphite-painted pockets (standard), fully painted Hyper Black or fully painted low-gloss black.

Available SRT Track Package wheels are ultra-lightweight, track-ready wheels in Hyper Black or matte black finishes.

About SRT

The Chrysler Group’s Street and Racing Technology (SRT) brand uses a successful product development formula featuring five proven hallmarks: awe-inspiring powertrains; outstanding ride, handling and capability; benchmark braking; aggressive and functional exteriors and race-inspired and high-performance interiors to remain true to its performance roots.

The expansion of the SRT vehicle lineup in the 2012 model year features four new products that are world-class performance contenders and bring the latest in safety technologies and creature comforts. These products include the Chrysler 300 SRT8®, Dodge Challenger SRT8 392, Dodge Charger SRT8 and Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8.

Making its highly anticipated return to the high-performance sports car market in late 2012 is the new 2013 SRT Viper and SRT Viper GTS. The SRT flagship performance machines arrive with more power and performance, superior craftsmanship, new technologies and creature comforts.