18 Mar 2019
AU NZ
ATECO Permalink

THE ATECO GROUP EXPANDS TO MEET GROWING DEMAND

March 18, 2019

The Ateco Group, the largest Australasia-owned independent automotive distribution company, has moved to a new office, training and warehouse facility in the Sydney suburb of Lidcombe to meet growing demand for the products of the brands it represents in Australia, New Zealand and South Africa.

“The rapid growth of LDV in Australia in particular, but also the development of Maserati and RAM, have meant that the Ateco Group had outgrown its office and training facility in Waterloo,” explains Neville Crichton, Executive Chairman of the Ateco Group. “The new offices, training facility and warehouse in Lidcombe enables the Ateco Group to provide support services for sales and training at a level that will match the growth in sales, meet the demands of a changing market place and provide our staff with a modern, well designed facility within which to work.”

The Ateco Group now provides products, parts and services to more than 100 dealers across Australia and New Zealand. A key element of this service to dealers is providing training and the move to Lidcombe has enabled the Ateco Group to more than triple the space it has available for training. This includes both classrooms and dedicated technical training areas with their own vehicle hoists, tools and equipment.

Typically, the Ateco Group provides up to 40 hours of training per technician for the launch of each new model into the Australian market, as well as sales and marketing training. The growth in dealer numbers, sales and new models required an entire new training centre to meet demand for training. To support the fleet market across Australia, LDV has its own national fleet market team and its own fleet of demonstrator vehicles. Lidcombe not only provides space from which to run these vehicles, but also Lidcombe is much more centrally located in Sydney and it is amongst the many fleet customers with which it is now working.

The move to Lidcombe has also enabled the Ateco Group to install the latest information technology and support facilities for its staff so that they may work with people quickly and easily, be they in the next street or on the other side of the planet. The company maintains state of the art technology so that it may not only run its own business but also have seamless digital communication with the computer systems of the companies with which it works in Asia, Europe, Africa and North America.

“The multi-million dollar move to Lidcombe represents the largest investments Ateco has made in facilities over the last 35 years,” says Mr Crichton. “But this level of investment is essential to ensure that we provide a benchmark quality of service to our dealers, to the brands we represent and to our customers. It is a clear and unequivocal sign of the Ateco Group’s commitment to the automotive industry in Australia, New Zealand and South Africa.”

15 Mar 2019
AU
Maserati Permalink

MASERATI LEVANTE VULCANO ON SALE IN AUSTRALIA

March 15, 2019

The Maserati Levante Vulcano is on sale in Australia with seven of the 150 produced for Europe and Asia coming to Australia.

The Maserati Levante Vulcano is recognisable thanks to its matte “Grigio Lava” paint finish and a choice of red Pieno Fiore leather with black stitching or black Pieno Fiore leather with red stitching for the interior.

Based on the Levante GranSport, the Vulcano’s exterior uses the Nerissimo Collection with dark look rear light clusters, black chrome front grille and logos, gloss black window surrounds, body-coloured door handles and burnished exhaust tailpipes. There are laminated privacy windows and the matt finish of the body extends to the 21 inch Helios wheels. The red brake calipers have the six-piston Brembo Dual Cast braking system.

Inside the new Levante Vulcano there are heated and ventilated Pieno Fiore leather sports seats, featuring electrical adjustment with memories and with contrasting embroidered Trident logo on the headrests. High gloss carbon fibre is also used for the insert on the electrically adjustable sport steering wheel and gearshift paddles. The interior is completed by the chromed aluminium badge on the centre console bearing the legendary Trident, along with the Vulcano logo and the words “one of 150“.

The Vulcano is fitted with the Bowers&Wilkins premium sound system, soft close door closure system, front and rear parking sensors and full-LED Matrix adaptive headlights.

The Levante Vulcano limited edition is powered a 350 hp twin-turbo V6 engine with 500 Nm of torque spread across 1,750 – 4,750 rpm enabling it to accelerate to 100 kmh in six seconds and on to a top speed of 251 kmh.

The Maserati Levante Vulcano uses Q4 Intelligent All-Wheel-Drive with rear Limited-slip Differential and suspension that includes adjustable Air Springs, Skyhook shock absorbers. It offers handling biased towards the rear with four wheel drive system coming into action when required enabling the Levante to traverse difficult conditions.

14 Mar 2019
AU NZ
Maserati Permalink

MASERATI AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND’S OFFICIAL MAGAZINE, IL TRIDENTE, APPOINTS NEW EDITOR AND MEDIA SALES AGENCY

March 14, 2019

European Automotive Imports, the official distributor of Maserati performance and luxury cars in Australia and New Zealand, today announced the appointment of Katarina Kroslakova as Editor in Chief, and Publisher’s Internationalé as the media sales agency for Il Tridente, Maserati’s official magazine.

These new appointments are part of an ongoing strategy to adapt the way it communicates with its customers as the media landscape, along with luxury consumer behaviour across Australia and New Zealand, continue to evolve.

Glen Sealey, Chief Operating Officer of Maserati Australia, New Zealand and South Africa says: “Maserati recognises the importance of tailoring our communication strategy to meet significant changes in the market since Il Tridente was launched. As such, we are excited to make these two key directional changes to the publication.

“We’d like to welcome Katarina Kroslakova as Il Tridente’s Editor in Chief. With a career spanning almost 20 years writing and editing for premium lifestyle and luxury titles, including eight at the helm of AFR’s Life & Luxury and Luxury magazines, Katarina has detailed knowledge of every facet of the exclusive lifestyle enjoyed by Maserati owners and is an authoritative voice on luxury and lifestyle.

“With her lively, informative and honest style we can’t think of a more perfect person to transform Il Tridente into a lifestyle media publication that luxury consumers enjoy, accessing and engaging across a range of platforms including print and digital. Our readers are men and women from all walks of life, whose passion, skills and intelligence has enabled them to achieve a level of success and financial security where they can indulge in luxury. Under Katarina’s direction, our readers will enjoy features on motoring, travel destinations and hotels, food and wine, jewellery and watches, fashion, art, design and culture.”

Mr Sealey continues: “Additionally, we are proud to announce Publisher’s Internationalé as Il Tridente’s official media sales agency. Publisher’s Internationalé has a unique reputation, reach and understanding of the Australian and New Zealand luxury market, as well as Il Tridente’s unique offering in this space.

“With their expertise, we look forward to engaging more advertisers with a readership every bit as unique and exclusive as the cars they own, and we have no doubt that their clients will find Il Tridente a valuable and distinctive addition to their portfolio.”

The past six years have seen Maserati undergo remarkable changes. Sales in Australia have increased six-fold thanks to a blend of new models – including the Ghibli and Levante that have carried the brand into new market sectors, and the development of all-new versions of existing models such as the Quattroporte, that have further broadened and deepened its appeal.

Maserati has also taken its traditional values of exclusivity and personalisation to another level with brand new features such as Zegna silk interiors and, following an expansion of its dealer group, ensured its wider customer-base receive the ongoing top-quality service the brand is renowned for.

Overall, Maserati are finding their consumers are younger, more female-skewed and, depending on the model, up to 90 per cent are first-time Maserati owners.

Mr Sealey says: “What unifies Maserati owners is their passion for being a part of the Maserati family, and a desire to immerse themselves in all the Italian luxuries that make our brand so unique. The future of Il Tridente is to provide a platform for our customers to enjoy this community, and with a contemporary voice showcasing the quality, craftsmanship and exclusivity of our cars along with luxury travel, food and wine, art and design and other cultural pursuits that appeal to our audience.

“We are excited to have Katarina and Publisher’s Internationalé on our team to guide Il Tridente in this direction, and deliver the best results for our customers.”

Published twice a year, with a growing readership of over 35,000, Il Tridente is distributed by direct mail to customers in Australia and New Zealand and copies are available at all Maserati dealerships, selected boutique hotels and at Maserati sponsored events.

05 Mar 2019
AU
RAM No Comments Permalink

RAM SALES UP MORE 1000% IN FEBRUARY AND A NEW AUSTRALIAN PRODUCTION RECORD SET

March 5, 2019 No Comments

RAM increased its Australian sales by more than 1000 percent in February compared to the same month last year driven by the new RAM 1500 launched in mid-2018, official VFACTS figures released today (05 March 2019) have revealed and RAM’s Melbourne factory is also celebrating passing the 200 a month Australian production mark for the first time, doing so in the shortest month of the year.

“RAM remanufactured more trucks in a month than ever before in February, but we are still chasing demand from across Australia and New Zealand for the RAM range and, in particular, for the Hemi V8 powered RAM 1500,” says Alex Stewart, General Manager of RAM Trucks Australia. “Given that demand is running well ahead of supply and we are responding by continuing to ramp up production in our Melbourne factory, February will be just the first of record-busting production months this year.”

Fully factory-supported and backed by 37 RAM dealers across Australia, the RAM range sets new benchmarks for performance and ability while the remanufacturing process in Melbourne is a major source of employment in automotive engineering, design and production both for RAM Trucks Australian production facility and the Australian component companies that keep the factory supplied with Australian made parts.

Every RAM truck is built specifically for the Australian market with a host of features and equipment from rear lights to the audio system. They are then shipped to Melbourne where they are remanufactured to right hand drive in a factory-approved process that ensures that they have the quality and consistency of the original vehicle.

Leading the charge for RAM is the 1500 which is squarely amongst the Australia Ute market but with decisive advantages from its considerably larger interior and load tray, its market leading towing capacity of up to 4.5 tonnes, a choice of axle ratios and unique options such as the versatile RamBoxes load system. Not to mention the performance offered by the standard 291 kW Hemi V8 engine matched to an eight speed gearbox.

“RAM is uniquely capable for Australian buyers based, it has a made considerable contribution to the Australian economy and its production in Melbourne has boosted Australia’s reputation for engineering and production prowess,” says Mr Stewart. “So, while our February production figure is an outstanding performance from everyone involved, it is another stepping stone towards RAM becoming a major player in the Australian automotive market.”

RAM sales in Australia are up from 14 in February 2018, when the range was restricted to the RAM 2500 and 3500 Heavy Duty models, to 172 sales in February 2019 according to February VFACTS figures which list this as an increase of more than 999 per cent.

Other utes claim performance – The Hemi 291 kW V8 RAM 1500 delivers

Under the bonnet of the RAM 1500 is a legend. The Hemi name comes from its hemispherical combustion chambers which gives an efficient combustion chamber with an excellent surface-to-volume ratio, with minimal heat loss to the head, and allows for two large valves. It was first developed for the P-47 Thunderbolt fighter aircraft and M47 Patton battle tank before finding its way under a whole raft American muscle and motorsport cars.

The latest Hemi continues to power racing cars and muscle cars, as well as the RAM 1500 and matches the timeless Hemi design with the latest technology including a coil-on-plug distributorless ignition system, Variable valve timing (VVT) and two spark plugs per cylinder to shorten flame travel leading to more consistent combustion and reduced emissions. Its also now a smart engine to save fuel with Multi-Displacement System (MDS) is used in some versions which can shut off two cylinders on each bank under light load to improve fuel economy. The engine bay also features active grille shutters, which only allow the right amount of cool air to enter engine bay. This means more consistent engine temperatures, faster warm up from cold starts and less aerodynamic drag.

When the active grille shutters are closed, airflow is redirected over and around the front of the truck, enhancing aerodynamic performance rather than creating turbulence in the engine compartment. Engine coolant temperature and vehicle speed determine shutter position. The shutters remain closed when less engine cooling is required, and aerodynamic drag is most significant; the system will open the shutters when the truck’s cooling demands require additional airflow, for example traveling up a hill or pulling a trailer in high-temperature environments.

Behind the wheel of the Hemi power RAM 1500 this translates into effortless performance that, thanks to its eight-speed gearbox, is delivered smoothly and efficiently, all the while accompanied by the emotive V8 burble.

Owners will appreciate an innovative rotary e-shift dial for RAM 1500 trucks that controls the TorqueFlite eight-speed transmission that replaces both column and floor shifters. The exclusive rotary e-shift dial enables intuitive operation with a direct and confident feel, even with gloves on. The convenient, dash-mounted, easy-to-understand and operate system provides total control of the sophisticated eight-speed transmission and is Ram Truck’s innovative approach to electronic shifters. This new design allows quick blind-shift transitions from “Reverse” to “Drive” when towing or navigating out of mud, snow or busy parking lots and crowded worksites. The new rotary e-shift dial also yields space for more functional and usable storage in the console.

The Ram 1500 features electric power steering (EPS). By using an electric motor to power the truck’s rack and pinion steering system, the engine is relieved from the task of a constantly turning a hydraulic pump, improving fuel efficiency up to 1.8 percent and adding 5 horsepower. Also, the introduction of EPS reduces complexity by removing the previous hydraulic pump, high-pressure hydraulic hoses and cooling apparatus. This greatly streamlines manufacturing and maintenance. With EPS, each Ram 1500 model can be specifically calibrated to optimize steering effort and precision regardless of body or powertrain configuration. Additionally, EPS senses constant input from the driver, for example a crown in the road, and compensates for improved comfort.

The RAM 1500 – Built to tow to the max!

The RAM 1500 is, quite simply, built to tow, with a range of features that combine to make it uniquely capable and safe.

Uniquely in this market sector, the RAM 1500 is available a choice of two axle ratios. In addition to the 3.92 ratio fitted to the Express and RAM 1500 Black Pack as standard, the 1500 Laramie offers the addition choice of 3.21 ratio which makes for a more relaxed driving experience, improved fuel consumption and reduced emissions. It is the ideal choice for the owner who is not planning to take the RAM 1500’s impressive towing capabilities to the maximum.

But this unique feature is just the start of the RAM 1500’s towing features. In addition to the usual swath of electronic safety features, the RAM 1500 adds Trailer Sway Control, Ready Alert Braking and, on the Laramie, trailer brake control.

Trailer Sway Control does what it says – it works to counter one of the most common problems with towing, a traying weaving behind the tow car. Using sophisticated electronics combined with the RAM 1500’s brakes, it detects and counters a trailer swaying and pulls it back in line behind the RAM 1500, allowing the driver to maintain full control.

Ready Alert Braking has two functions, first if the driver suddenly takes their foot off the accelerator, the brake system pumps up the brakes ready to provide maximum braking performance in the time it takes the driver to move their foot from accelerator to brake pedal. Additionally, in the Laramie, when the automatic rain sensing wipers are activated by rain the Ready Alert Braking system moves the brake pads slight closer to brake disks so that they sweep any water off their surface to ensure maximum, instant braking ability.

The Laramie also has slider controls on the dashboard for to control the electric brakes on a trailer or caravan. These also bring up a choice of two readouts on the display screen in the instrument cluster to inform the driver exactly what setting the trailer’s brakes are set.

A not inconsiderable part of the RAM 1500’s excellent towing ability is built on the foundations of its advanced separate chassis and sophisticated suspension which is mounted on it.

The front rails are 20 per cent stronger thanks to the use of high-strength steel while portions of the frame are hydroformed for dimensional accuracy (hydroforming reduces the amount of welding that leads to distortion), and side rails are fully boxed for both strength and durability. The front frame section incorporates advanced, high-strength steel that maintains overall strength and durability and to further improve NVH, new larger body mounts are located on the front frame rails and at the C-pillar.

All of this ability provides the RAM 1500 with capability to offer a class leading maximum braked towing capacity of 4.5 tonnes with 70 mm tow ball in the RAM 1500 Express, the RAM 1500 Black Pack and the RAM 1500 Laramie with the 3.92 axle. The maximum gross combination mass is a mighty 7.2 tonnes with the 3.92 axle and a still hefty 6.2 tonnes with the 3.2 axle. Needless to say, a heavy duty tow bar is standard on all RAM 1500 versions, as is a seven pin towing harness plug.

The Ram 1500 uses an exclusive multi-link, coil-spring rear suspension and this innovative rear suspension provides improved ride and handling characteristics with no loss of capability. A coil-spring design centralizes and absorbs bumps and impacts, while reducing the amount of friction in the spring system and it is some 20 kilos lighter than a leaf-spring configuration.

The front independent suspension combines upper control arms, aluminum lower control arms and retuned geometry with coil springs for improved responsiveness and handling while robust ball joints on the front suspension yield greater durability and are engineered with improved sealing methods.

Four-wheel disc brakes are standard on all Ram 1500 Truck models. The front rotors measure 13.2 inches (336 mm) in diameter and are clamped with dual-piston calipers, while rear rotors are 13.8 inches (352 mm) and utilize single-piston calipers. ABS brakes lead a whole phalanx of electric chassis assistance packages that reduce the chances of a road accidents by a significant margin.

The RAM 1500 is the latest in a long line of Pick-up Trucks that have become legends in North America, but it has taken Australian expertise to make the RAM 1500 fully available in Australia. The right-hand drive RAM 1500 has been designed and developed in Australia and refined for Australian requirements. It is built in North America and then remanufactured on a brand-new state of the art production line in Melbourne. This process means production quality and consistency. An Australian market RAM 1500 is built specifically for this market, imported by the factory appointed distributor, remanufactured to right hand drive in Melbourne and then sold through a nationwide dealer network.

The RAM 1500 is backed by a three year/100,000 km warranty with roadside assistance and requires a service every 12 months or 12,000 km.

The RAM 1500 – ready for Australia

“Our aim has always been that, so far as the customer is concerned, buying and owning a RAM, be it the new 1500 or its heavy-duty brothers, the 2500 and 3500, should be absolutely no different from buying any other mainstream vehicle,” says Alex Stewart, General Manager of RAM Trucks Australia. “This means everything from production line quality and consistency of product, to a national dealer network, a factory supported warranty, through to back up of a full parts and accessory warehouses in Sydney and Auckland that can deliver parts to anywhere in the country within 24 hours.”

“The RAM 1500 resets the ability, value and style measures for the Australian Ute market,” says Mr Stewart. “We fully expect it to have as dramatic effect on RAM sales in Australia as it has done in the USA, where the RAM brand has enjoyed eight years of consecutive growth, making RAM a significant player in the top end of the Australian Ute market.”

05 Mar 2019
AU NZ
Maserati No Comments Permalink

MASERATI THE 2019 GENEVA MOTOR SHOW

March 5, 2019 No Comments

Europe’s biggest Motor Show of the year gets under way and Maserati presents a Maserati Levante ONE OF ONE giving a glimpse of the future customization programme. It has been customized to fit the requirements of Allegra Antinori, Vice President of Italian wine producer Marchesi Antinori.

At the 89th edition of the Geneva international Motor Show, Maserati further highlights customization and the superlative expression of Italian identity combined with exquisite craftsmanship, state-of-the-art technology and sophisticated aesthetics: a unique, exclusive mix achieved through an interactive experience involving the Italian materials of excellence present on the stand.

MASERATI LEVANTE: THE ALLEGRA ANTINORI ONE OF ONE

At the 2019 Geneva International Motor Show, Maserati presents a unique offering: the Levante ONE OF ONE, a preview of Maserati’s future customization programme. The stand showcases a Maserati Levante ONE OF ONE entirely customized by Allegra Antinori, Vice President of Italian wine firm Marchesi Antinori, world leader in quality wines.

The Maserati Centro Stile assisted Allegra Antinori in the configuration of her car, in a true process of shared creation, a concept which is much more than the mere choice of accessories.

A unique project in which she expresses herself, her emotions and her story. Implemented in this way, the special bond between Maserati’s ground-breaking innovation and the attention to detail normally found in the workshops of traditional craftsmen comes to life in a unique Maserati.

In this first example of the new customization process, every detail Allegra Antinori has defined is closely linked to a facet of her personality. The external configuration is a distinctive tri-coat green, a special colour inspired by the shades of the Tuscan hills. The external details (door handles, side air vents and grille inserts) are finished in dark look chrome, toning to perfection with the body colour to give the Maserati SUV a truly sophisticated overall look.

The interiors of Allegra Antinori’s ONE OF ONE features many unique combinations, which have never previously been used on a Levante. The lower dashboard, door panel, central tunnel unit and seat colour references the warm hues of the earth of Tuscan vineyards.

The unique “Pieno Fiore” leather used for the seats is another exquisite choice: it is coloured with aniline and oils, with no surface finishes, but is embellished with classical button-tufted effect 3D embroidery. The technique used provides exceptional depth of colour and a very smooth tactile sensation, and like a fine wine, this leather will simply improve with age.

The central tunnel is in a special finish using a material that is new even for Maserati: carbon fibre with copper wire and high gloss finish. Here again, there are clear references to the Antinori estate and the concept of Cor-Ten, the weathering steel used for the construction of the Antinori Winery in the Chianti Classico area, midway between Florence and Siena.

The 100% natural mohair wool mats provide the final, exclusive touch to a tailor-made customization with attention to every single detail.

AN INTERACTIVE EXPERIENCE INVOLVING WORKING TABLES OF ITALIAN PRODUCTS OF EXCELLENCE

Maserati will host in their stand – together with Ermenegildo Zegna, a longstanding partner and a leader in the field of men’s luxury clothing – two other leading artisanal firms in their field: Giorgetti, the internationally renowned Italian woodworking company, known for its furniture and unique design pieces, and De Castelli, a leading metalworking firm, specializing in the production of unique home design accessories, custom surfaces and projects.

The stand provides an interactive journey through three different thematic areas, each of them with a dedicated working table. Each area will feature a display of materials and components that bear witness to the unending quest for excellence, style and originality, typical of products designed and Made in Italy, and therefore typical of Maserati.

Speaking of innovation and design, when it comes to customizing the stand, for the first time ever in Maserati’s Customization Area, there will be a D-Table, the only multi-touch, interactive table featuring an elegant and sophisticated design. Latest-generation software will enable customers to configure their cars by selecting external and internal combinations, colours and materials at a touch. Customers will be offered a unique experience for the configuration of their individual Maserati, using the customization features present on the stand.

Ermenegildo Zegna – Working Table

The Zegna working table illustrates the Zegna-Maserati tailoring atelier, from the preliminary phase of weaving the PELLETESSUTATM using spools of sturdy bands of leather, through to the rolls of resulting woven material in the Maserati leather colours (black, tan, red and dark brown).

Like a fine, made-to-measure shoe, this PELLETESSUTATM (woven leather) adapts its shape to the sinuous surface of the Maserati Quattroporte dashboard (the featured element of the interior, over which the PELLETESSUTATM fits perfectly; the three-dimensionality of the woven strips of leather create a tactile surface for this component, restoring light and texture, imbuing the volume of this component with expressive force). Two Quattroporte dashboard fascias covered with black and tan PELLETESSUTATM are available to view.

Also on display on the table are five decorative Maserati Levante door panel trim elements, which reveal the opportunities for chromatic customization of the Maserati PELLETESSUTATM.

The PELLETESSUTATM tiles represent studies and design research between the Ermenegildo Zegna Style Centre and Maserati, exploring jacquard designs that mix colours, graphic elements and patterns with an eye to potential customizations.

The sketches depict the research carried out by the Maserati Centro Stile into textures, their visual application to the various components and efforts to balance and harmonize colours within the context of the car interior.

Giorgetti – Working Table

The Giorgetti working table features outstanding woodworking and cabinetry skills. By means of three Quattroporte dashboard inserts Giorgetti illustrates the central role of wood when it comes to Maserati components, highlighting how initial mechanical processes are followed by manual ones, operations like precision carving work, turning and modelling in three of the 12 Giorgetti wood varieties: Ash, Walnut and Maple.

The table also features a wooden panel in antiqued Ash with Shibori decorations, the inspiration for the two Quattroporte dashboard fascias which feature this technique in a micro-shibori version, styled and expressed all-over pattern sections. The smallest dashboard inserts feature the same treatment for larger elements on the dashboard in antiqued Ash burl wood and natural Ash burl wood.

Finally, the sheets of veneer complete the table as elements of stylistic research in which Giorgetti and Maserati experiment with wood varieties which are transformed into graphic landscapes in the case of the Ziricote wood, or dynamic textural effects in the case of the Tanganika Frise.

De Castelli – Working Table

The working table illustrates the meeting between the Italian excellence of De Castelli, when it comes to creative metal surfacing, and Maserati’s eagerness to embrace and interpret this poetry in metal. The sophistication of the metal working processes applied to its interior components (the dashboard fascia and the pedal trims) serves to further enhance the interior, not only functionally but also by introducing a sense of poetry and textural allure. A storytelling inspired by the chromatic richness of the Italian sea- and landscape.

The four sheets of metal demonstrate the process of working the semi-finished material. The sheet of raw material in its pure form is subjected to a manual hammering phase, fashioning it into the shape of the Maserati Quattroporte dashboard. The featured element of this interior, is perfectly suited to communicating the subtle chromatic and poetic transitions of the DeMarea finish, selected for this exquisite work of art. The other two elements illustrate the phases of oxidation and surface transformation of the brass: human manuality, creativity and sense of aesthetic pleasure decide when to stop time and halt the process of oxidation, ascertaining the perfect moment for obtaining the DeMarea gradient. This process is simply defining the uniqueness of each detail.

On the artisan’s working table and creative space, the process of storytelling unfolds with the help of tools or historical instruments, where metal sheet is shaped into a work of art.

Subjected to various surface treatments, the sheets of metal convey the excellence of the De Castelli world, not to mention Maserati’s flair for design.

The working table also displays a Quattroporte dashboard fascia with the DeMarea Iron, DeMarea Copper and DeMarea Brass finish. The DeMarea trilogy illustrates a single process composed of superimposed, polysemous manual oxidation operations. These are all inspired by Italian sea- and landscapes, creating “watercolour” effects, conveying highly textural sensations and evocations of waves lapping against Venice’s signature mooring posts.

The collaboration between De Castelli and Maserati also expresses itself in the pedals. These key elements for operating a car have been embellished with a hand-applied oxidation treatment, boasting a more sophisticated flair in the DeMarea Copper kit, combined with the luxurious pad in vegetal-tanned Saddle Extra leather, which is inspired by the soles of made-to-measure shoes. While a more “art workshop” flair distinguishes the DeMarea Iron kit, brandishing logos engraved with the Maserati name

The sketches depict the research carried out by the Maserati Centro Stile into textures, their visual application to the various components and efforts to balance and harmonize colours within the context of the car interior.

26 Feb 2019
AU
RAM No Comments Permalink

RAM IS READY TO RUMBLE: THE BLACK SHEEP OF THE RAM FAMILY ARRIVES IN AUSTRALIA

February 26, 2019 No Comments

The black sheep of the RAM family is now in 37 Australian RAM showrooms across the country with the arrival of the RAM 1500 Black Pack.

Bathed in Brilliant Black Metallic Paint, the RAM 1500 Black Pack lives up to its name with 20 inch black alloy wheels, black front and rear bumpers, a black grille, darkened headlights and all the badging is in black – with one exception.

That exemption hints at how the RAM 1500 Black Pack has the power to back up its dark good looks with the one badge not blackened stating – in red – 5.7 litres, the capacity of the awesome 291 kW Hemi V8 engine that lifts its performance above all its rivals.

The RAM 1500 Black Pack operates in stealth mode with just an inimitable Hemi V8 rumble to hint at the awesome performance it offers or, with the optional RAM Sport Exhaust system fitted, the rumble turns into an orchestral V8 roar that enables the RAM 1500 Black Park to audibly announce its arrival, whether it’s the unmistakable rumble at low speeds or V8 roar under full bore acceleration.

Like the entire RAM 1500 range, the 1500 Black Pack sets new standards for towing capacity, tub size, interior space and comfort and, with the legendary 5.7 litre HEMI V8, the Black Pack further extends the return to the Australia market of the that national icon, the V8 Ute.

Based on the RAM 1500 Express, the RAM 1500 Black Pack has the Quad Cab with an interior space of 3.3 cubic metres placing it ahead of majority of conventional Utes, while impressive levels shoulder and hip room make it a comfortable place to be, front or back. Out the back is a huge six foot four inch tray and a standard heavy duty tow bar. That heavy duty tow bar is needed because the RAM 1500 Black pack can tow a class leading load of up to 4.5 tonnes.

The RAM 1500 Black Pack is available in two versions, the standard RAM 1500 Black Pack and with the unique RamBoxes loading system. The RAM 1500 Sports Exhaust System is a dealer fit option, so is also available to existing owners.

“The RAM 1500 Black Pack slots in neatly between the standard RAM 1500 Express and the luxurious RAM 1500 Laramie to provide a combination of a strong unique visual appeal and the sound of Hemi V8 that goes to the heart of why hot Utes are so popular,” explains Alex Stewart, General Manager of RAM Trucks Australia. “The RAM 1500 Black Pack does everything in terms of space, towing ability and tray size expected of class-leading Ute, to which it adds dark, muscular good looks and, matching the unique performance, the sound track that can only be delivered by a full size V8 engine. In short, the hot V8 Ute is back, and it comes in Black with the RAM badge, front and back!”

Other utes claim performance – The Hemi 291 kW V8 RAM 1500 delivers

Under the bonnet of the RAM 1500 is a legend. The Hemi name comes from its hemispherical combustion chambers which gives an efficient combustion chamber with an excellent surface-to-volume ratio, with minimal heat loss to the head, and allows for two large valves. It was first developed for the P-47 Thunderbolt fighter aircraft and M47 Patton battle tank before finding its way under a whole raft American muscle and motorsport cars.

The latest Hemi continues to power racing cars and muscle cars, as well as the RAM 1500 and matches the timeless Hemi design with the latest technology including a coil-on-plug distributorless ignition system, Variable valve timing (VVT) and two spark plugs per cylinder to shorten flame travel leading to more consistent combustion and reduced emissions. Its also now a smart engine to save fuel with Multi-Displacement System (MDS) is used in some versions which can shut off two cylinders on each bank under light load to improve fuel economy. The engine bay also features active grille shutters, which only allow the right amount of cool air to enter engine bay. This means more consistent engine temperatures, faster warm up from cold starts and less aerodynamic drag.

When the active grille shutters are closed, airflow is redirected over and around the front of the truck, enhancing aerodynamic performance rather than creating turbulence in the engine compartment. Engine coolant temperature and vehicle speed determine shutter position. The shutters remain closed when less engine cooling is required, and aerodynamic drag is most significant; the system will open the shutters when the truck’s cooling demands require additional airflow, for example traveling up a hill or pulling a trailer in high-temperature environments.

Behind the wheel of the Hemi power RAM 1500 this translates into effortless performance that, thanks to its eight-speed gearbox, is delivered smoothly and efficiently, all the while accompanied by the emotive V8 burble.

Owners will appreciate an innovative rotary e-shift dial for RAM 1500 trucks that controls the TorqueFlite eight-speed transmission that replaces both column and floor shifters. The exclusive rotary e-shift dial enables intuitive operation with a direct and confident feel, even with gloves on. The convenient, dash-mounted, easy-to-understand and operate system provides total control of the sophisticated eight-speed transmission and is Ram Truck’s innovative approach to electronic shifters. This new design allows quick blind-shift transitions from “Reverse” to “Drive” when towing or navigating out of mud, snow or busy parking lots and crowded worksites. The new rotary e-shift dial also yields space for more functional and usable storage in the console.

The Ram 1500 features electric power steering (EPS). By using an electric motor to power the truck’s rack and pinion steering system, the engine is relieved from the task of a constantly turning a hydraulic pump, improving fuel efficiency up to 1.8 percent and adding 5 horsepower. Also, the introduction of EPS reduces complexity by removing the previous hydraulic pump, high-pressure hydraulic hoses and cooling apparatus. This greatly streamlines manufacturing and maintenance. With EPS, each Ram 1500 model can be specifically calibrated to optimize steering effort and precision regardless of body or powertrain configuration. Additionally, EPS senses constant input from the driver, for example a crown in the road, and compensates for improved comfort.

The RAM 1500 – Built to tow to the max!

The RAM 1500 is, quite simply, built to tow, with a range of features that combine to make it uniquely capable and safe.

Uniquely in this market sector, the RAM 1500 is available a choice of two axle ratios. In addition to the 3.92 ratio fitted to the Express and RAM 1500 Black Pack as standard, the 1500 Laramie offers the addition choice of 3.21 ratio which makes for a more relaxed driving experience, improved fuel consumption and reduced emissions. It is the ideal choice for the owner who is not planning to take the RAM 1500’s impressive towing capabilities to the maximum.

But this unique feature is just the start of the RAM 1500’s towing features. In addition to the usual swath of electronic safety features, the RAM 1500 adds Trailer Sway Control, Ready Alert Braking and, on the Laramie, trailer brake control.

Trailer Sway Control does what it says – it works to counter one of the most common problems with towing, a traying weaving behind the tow car. Using sophisticated electronics combined with the RAM 1500’s brakes, it detects and counters a trailer swaying and pulls it back in line behind the RAM 1500, allowing the driver to maintain full control.

Ready Alert Braking has two functions, first if the driver suddenly takes their foot off the accelerator, the brake system pumps up the brakes ready to provide maximum braking performance in the time it takes the driver to move their foot from accelerator to brake pedal. Additionally, in the Laramie, when the automatic rain sensing wipers are activated by rain the Ready Alert Braking system moves the brake pads slight closer to brake disks so that they sweep any water off their surface to ensure maximum, instant braking ability.

The Laramie also has slider controls on the dashboard for to control the electric brakes on a trailer or caravan. These also bring up a choice of two readouts on the display screen in the instrument cluster to inform the driver exactly what setting the trailer’s brakes are set.

A not inconsiderable part of the RAM 1500’s excellent towing ability is built on the foundations of its advanced separate chassis and sophisticated suspension which is mounted on it.

The front rails are 20 per cent stronger thanks to the use of high-strength steel while portions of the frame are hydroformed for dimensional accuracy (hydroforming reduces the amount of welding that leads to distortion), and side rails are fully boxed for both strength and durability. The front frame section incorporates advanced, high-strength steel that maintains overall strength and durability and to further improve NVH, new larger body mounts are located on the front frame rails and at the C-pillar.

All of this ability provides the RAM 1500 with capability to offer a class leading maximum braked towing capacity of 4.5 tonnes with 70 mm tow ball in the RAM 1500 Express, the RAM 1500 Black Pack and the RAM 1500 Laramie with the 3.92 axle. The maximum gross combination mass is a mighty 7.2 tonnes with the 3.92 axle and a still hefty 6.2 tonnes with the 3.2 axle. Needless to say, a heavy duty tow bar is standard on all RAM 1500 versions, as is a seven pin towing harness plug.

The Ram 1500 uses an exclusive multi-link, coil-spring rear suspension and this innovative rear suspension provides improved ride and handling characteristics with no loss of capability. A coil-spring design centralizes and absorbs bumps and impacts, while reducing the amount of friction in the spring system and it is some 20 kilos lighter than a leaf-spring configuration.

The front independent suspension combines upper control arms, aluminum lower control arms and retuned geometry with coil springs for improved responsiveness and handling while robust ball joints on the front suspension yield greater durability and are engineered with improved sealing methods.

Four-wheel disc brakes are standard on all Ram 1500 Truck models. The front rotors measure 13.2 inches (336 mm) in diameter and are clamped with dual-piston calipers, while rear rotors are 13.8 inches (352 mm) and utilize single-piston calipers. ABS brakes lead a whole phalanx of electric chassis assistance packages that reduce the chances of a road accidents by a significant margin.

The RAM 1500 is the latest in a long line of Pick-up Trucks that have become legends in North America, but it has taken Australian expertise to make the RAM 1500 fully available in Australia. The right-hand drive RAM 1500 has been designed and developed in Australia and refined for Australian requirements. It is built in North America and then remanufactured on a brand-new state of the art production line in Melbourne. This process means production quality and consistency. An Australian market RAM 1500 is built specifically for this market, imported by the factory appointed distributor, remanufactured to right hand drive in Melbourne and then sold through a nationwide dealer network.

The RAM 1500 is backed by a three year/100,000 km warranty with roadside assistance and requires a service every 12 months or 12,000 km.

The RAM 1500 – ready for Australia

“Our aim has always been that, so far as the customer is concerned, buying and owning a RAM, be it the new 1500 or its heavy-duty brothers, the 2500 and 3500, should be absolutely no different from buying any other mainstream vehicle,” says Alex Stewart, General Manager of RAM Trucks Australia. “This means everything from production line quality and consistency of product, to a national dealer network, a factory supported warranty, through to back up of a full parts and accessory warehouses in Sydney and Auckland that can deliver parts to anywhere in the country within 24 hours.”

“The RAM 1500 resets the ability, value and style measures for the Australian Ute market,” says Mr Stewart. “We fully expect it to have as dramatic effect on RAM sales in Australia as it has done in the USA, where the RAM brand has enjoyed eight years of consecutive growth, making RAM a significant player in the top end of the Australian Ute market.”

03 Feb 2019
AU
Maserati No Comments Permalink

MASERATI UNLEASHES THE GHIBLI SCATENATO

February 3, 2019 No Comments

Maserati is opening 2019 by unleashing just 20 in Australia of the limited-edition Maserati Ghibli Scatenato which hones the performance and style of Maserati’s sports saloon with a generous additional equipment package.

The Maserati Ghibli Scatenato – which is Italian for ‘Unleash’ – is powered by the Maserati designed, Ferrari built twin turbo 3.0 litre V6 engine that pumps out 350 hp and that launches the Ghibi Scatenato to 100 kmh in 5.5 seconds and on to, where the law permits, a top speed of 267 kmh. At the same time this technically advanced engine, combined with its electronically controlled eight speed gearbox sips fuel at a rate of just 11.0 l/100 km on the combined test cycle.

To the already generous equipment package boasted by the Maserati Ghibli 350 hp, the Scatenato adds 21 inch Titano forged alloy wheels which are wrapped around brake calipers in Maserati Blue. Inside the standard seats have been up graded to wrap-around Sports Seats upholstered in supple leather that enable the driver to use the new Maserati Sports Steering wheel to fully exploit the added grip endowed by the 21 inch wheels and for passengers to enjoy the ride in cosseting comfort. The front seats are heated and also offer 12 way electric movement with two memory settings for the driver. The interior trim is completed by the finest black piano finish. Safety is not overlooked with the Ghibli Scatenato also including traffic sign recognition and active blind spot warning, while the active cruise control combines safety and convenience.

“Unleashed is very much the right word to describe the Maserati Ghibli Scatenato,” says Glen Sealey, Chief Operating Officer of Maserati Australia, New Zealand and South Africa. “The combination of the 350 hp Maserati Ghibli, this unique equipment package, the exclusivity of just 20 for Australia and an equally remarkable price will mean that when the Scatenato is unleashed in Australian dealers, it will not be around for long!”

The Maserati Ghibli Scatenato is available in Australian Maserati dealerships from 1 January 2019. As well as Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth, Maserati dealerships are now open on the Gold Coast and in Canberra.

03 Feb 2019
AU
LDV No Comments Permalink

PARRAMATTA LIONS GET ON THE ROAD WITH LDV

February 3, 2019 No Comments

The Parramatta Lions will be able to spend more time on the road to making Parramatta a better place to live, work and grow, raising funds for a wide range of charities and providing vital assistance in emergencies thanks to LDV Parramatta which has provided the Parramatta Lions with a brand new LDV G10 van to use for their work.

The new LDV G10 represents a double milestone, with it joining the Parramatta Lions as they mark 60 years of local community service and their new G10 is the 10,000th new LDV to be delivered in Australia since China’s largest vehicle maker launched its commercial vehicle division in Australia just three years ago.

To celebrate these milestones as well as acknowledging the international work carried out by the Lions globally, the vehicle was presented to Parramatta Lions President, Shabeen Wahid, by Yao Liwan, the Chief Financial Officer of LDV’s parent company, SAIC Motor Commercial Vehicle Company, and in presence of the President of LDV Maxus, Lan Qingsong, both of whom travelled from China for presentation.

“The Parramatta Lions could not be more honoured not just to receive this LDV G10 to help us with our work, but also for the recognition of our work by the most senior executives in one of the world’s largest companies,” says Shabeen Wahid, President of the Parramatta Lions. “Both Mr Lan and Mr Yao were keenly interested in our work as we explained to them how the LDV G10 will be used to benefit the community in Parramatta by expanding and extending the work we carry out along with fund raising exercises and how it could be called upon to assist with emergency programmes. Community involvement by business is clearly as important for them as it is for the Parramatta Lions.”

Parramatta is playing a key role in the growth of LDV in Australia, with the company investing in two sites in Parramatta. Its sales site in Church Street is undergoing a multi-million redevelopment to provide an all-new showroom and display centre, while in River Road West, LDV Parramatta has opened a new service centre for the burgeoning numbers of LDV vehicles in Western Sydney.

“LDV Parramatta is now part of this community, through both the vehicles and services we provide and the people we employ locally,” says Ian Mason, Dealer Principal of LDV Parramatta. “But to be really part of the Parramatta community we know that this is not enough and we are both proud and pleased to be able to support the Parramatta Lions. For 60 years this organization has worked selflessly to help make Parramatta the thriving, diverse and supportive community that it is today. The provision of this G10 to help them grow their work and the acknowledgment of this by the most senior LDV executives from China is clear and unequivocal statement of what the Lions have done for Parramatta over the past six decades and what they will do for Parramatta in the future.”