Ferrari Profits Down in 2009

2009 Ferrari California Picture

Ferrari SpA said its operating profit plunged 28 percent in 2009, due in part to "unfavorable exchange rates" including a weak U.S. dollar. The automaker's vehicle sales saw a modest dip of only 5 percent, to 6,250 cars, while worldwide revenues fell 7 percent, to $2.4 billion.

Operating profit declined to $334 million last year, from $465 million in 2008.

Noting the "challenging economic climate," Ferrari Chairman Luca di Montezemolo said, "2010 will be a very difficult year, and the first small signs of recovery will not come until next autumn."

Among the bright spots was the Ferrari California, as 60 percent of customers are new to the Ferrari brand, according to the automaker. The new 458 Italia went on sale at year's end and thus had a minimal contribution to the firm's revenues in 2009.

2011 ALPINA B7 BMW luxury Sport Sedan

Both short- and long-wheelbase models will be offered. The BMW ALPINA B7 will make its North American premiere at the 2010 Chicago Auto Show in February, and go on sale at authorized BMW Centers in Spring of 2010. Bmw announced today the prices for the 2011 Alpina B7 for US - $122,875 (standard wheelbase) and $126,775 (extended wheelbase). BMW of North America announced that the BMW ALPINA B7 sedan will join BMW’s North American product range as the most dynamic 7 Series model. The BMW ALPINA B7 represents the second generation of ALPINA automobiles based on the BMW 7 Series to be offered in the US. The first BMW ALPINA B7 was offered as a limited edition for the 2007 and 2008 model years. Newly interpreted and based on the current BMW 7 Series platform, the B7 will again set the benchmark in terms of performance, refinement, technology, luxury and exclusivity. However, Alpina B7 is slightly less powerful that the 760i, but it looks very very sporty and aggressive.

2011 ALPINA B7 BMW luxury Sport Sedan 

Yielding exquisite levels of power and torque from the twin-turbocharged 4.4 liter V8, and in conjunction with the electronically-adjustable suspension with active roll stabilization, the new B7 promises to offer a spectrum of driving experiences so broad as to be unheard of in this class of automobiles. The evolution of the traditional 20-spoke 21” ALPINA CLASSIC wheels underline the fresh design language found throughout the B7 and impart it a distinctive appearance and powerful stance.

ALPINA – a name famous in Europe and the wider world for putting a particular performance accent on BMWs, though not yet so well-known in North America. BMW – a name famous all over the world for motor vehicles of performance, quality, luxury and safety.

The two companies, both at home in the German state of Bavaria, have a long history of working together to produce special BMW automobiles. Burkard Bovensiepen, son of the founder of ALPINA Business Machines and an enthusastic racing driver/engineer, began his automotive career path in 1961 by developing a dual-carburetor setup for the just-introduced BMW 1500 sedan. It was a predictive beginning: to take an already fine-performing BMW (which also just happened to be a practical sedan) and making it perform even better.

2011 ALPINA B7 BMW luxury Sport Sedan 

By 1964, BMW had officially recognized ALPINA’s contribution to BMW performance. Not long thereafter, Burkard Bovensiepen founded the ALPINA company – ALPINA Burkard Bovensiepen KG – that continues today, creating special versions of BMW automobiles that offer a particular brand of performance for discriminating auto enthusiasts. Yet outside the circle of dedicated BMW enthusiasts, ALPINA has kept a low profile in North America. In addition to racing versions of BMWs, ALPINA has developed a progression of BMW-based cars based on 3, 5, 6, 8, Z4 and Z8 models and offered them on a limited-production basis. ALPINA is located in the small Bavarian city of Buchloe, some 50 miles southwest of Munich, BMW’s headquarters city and the capital of Bavaria.

 2011 ALPINA B7 BMW luxury Sport Sedan 

The B7 is the newest manifestation of the unique BMW-ALPINA synergy – once again based on the BMW 7 Series luxury sedan. Currently, BMW offers ultra-performance models of its 3, 5, 6, X5 and X6 Series developed by BMW M, BMW’s own performance subsidiary. For an ultra-performance version of the 7 Series – a vehicle defined by luxury and generous interior space – something other than “M” performance character was called for. In recent models, ALPINA has concentrated on delivering very high levels of performance with moderate rpm ranges and automatic transmission. Most appropriately, the new BMW ALPINA B7 applies this philosophy to the newest 7 Series to produce a luxury sedan of stunning performance. “A 7 Series Beyond,” one might say.

2010 McLaren MP4-25 Race Car

While yesterday was Ferrari's turn to present his car, McLaren did today. The team presented the MP4-25, the model that will run Lewis Hamilton and Jenson Button in the Formula 1 season starting on March 14 in Bahrain. The McLaren team that will be the last two world champions in Formula 1, Jenson Button and Lewis Hamilton. According to the company, the 'MP4-25', is a car that carries the British team has worked "more than ever" to tackle "an exciting year."

2010 McLaren MP4-25 Race Car   

The McLaren Mercedes team launched its new car for the 2010 season on Friday morning, with the target of clinching both titles after a mixed campaign in 2009. The Mercedes-powered MP4-25 was unveiled at Vodafone UK's headquarters in Newbury. The Vodafone McLaren Mercedes team revealed its brand new MP4-25 chassis – the car in which reigning world champion Jenson Button and 2008 world champion Lewis Hamilton will contest the 2010 FIA Formula 1 World Championship.

2010 McLaren MP4-25 Race Car   

Unveiled at Vodafone UK’s stunning headquarters in Newbury, the 2010 car looks noticeably different from last year’s race-winning MP4-24. MP4-25 features a radical aerodynamic overhaul and a significantly larger fuel tank to take full advantage of this year’s new regulations, and its design team is confident it has explored every possible avenue to maximise the car’s performance.

2010 McLaren MP4-25 Race Car   

Horsepower once again comes from our friends in Stuttgart. Mercedes-Benz’s FO 108X V8 subtly improves upon an engine that has become the benchmark in Formula 1, winning the last two drivers’ world championships.

2010 McLaren MP4-25 Race Car   

The team kicks off its 2010 campaign with a stunning driver pairing: 2009 world champion Jenson Button and 2008 world champion Lewis Hamilton. It is the first time since 1989 – when it ran Alain Prost and Ayrton Senna – that the team has fielded a joint-world champion driver line-up, and marks the first time in Formula 1 history that the sport’s two most recent world champions have been partnered together.

2010 McLaren MP4-25 Race Car   

However, the driver line-up represents only a fraction of the team’s remarkable strength in depth. Members of the design team who contributed to the development of MP4-25 can also trace their involvement back through an incredible seven of the team’s 12 drivers’ world championships, five of the team’s eight constructors’ world championships and 112 of the team’s 164 grand prix victories.

The Vodafone McLaren Mercedes team begins pre-season testing with MP4-25 at the Circuit de la Comunitat Valenciana Ricardo Tormo on Monday.

2010 McLaren MP4-25 Race Car

While yesterday was Ferrari's turn to present his car, McLaren did today. The team presented the MP4-25, the model that will run Lewis Hamilton and Jenson Button in the Formula 1 season starting on March 14 in Bahrain. The McLaren team that will be the last two world champions in Formula 1, Jenson Button and Lewis Hamilton. According to the company, the 'MP4-25', is a car that carries the British team has worked "more than ever" to tackle "an exciting year."

2010 McLaren MP4-25 Race Car   

The McLaren Mercedes team launched its new car for the 2010 season on Friday morning, with the target of clinching both titles after a mixed campaign in 2009. The Mercedes-powered MP4-25 was unveiled at Vodafone UK's headquarters in Newbury. The Vodafone McLaren Mercedes team revealed its brand new MP4-25 chassis – the car in which reigning world champion Jenson Button and 2008 world champion Lewis Hamilton will contest the 2010 FIA Formula 1 World Championship.

2010 McLaren MP4-25 Race Car   

Unveiled at Vodafone UK’s stunning headquarters in Newbury, the 2010 car looks noticeably different from last year’s race-winning MP4-24. MP4-25 features a radical aerodynamic overhaul and a significantly larger fuel tank to take full advantage of this year’s new regulations, and its design team is confident it has explored every possible avenue to maximise the car’s performance.

2010 McLaren MP4-25 Race Car   

Horsepower once again comes from our friends in Stuttgart. Mercedes-Benz’s FO 108X V8 subtly improves upon an engine that has become the benchmark in Formula 1, winning the last two drivers’ world championships.

2010 McLaren MP4-25 Race Car   

The team kicks off its 2010 campaign with a stunning driver pairing: 2009 world champion Jenson Button and 2008 world champion Lewis Hamilton. It is the first time since 1989 – when it ran Alain Prost and Ayrton Senna – that the team has fielded a joint-world champion driver line-up, and marks the first time in Formula 1 history that the sport’s two most recent world champions have been partnered together.

2010 McLaren MP4-25 Race Car   

However, the driver line-up represents only a fraction of the team’s remarkable strength in depth. Members of the design team who contributed to the development of MP4-25 can also trace their involvement back through an incredible seven of the team’s 12 drivers’ world championships, five of the team’s eight constructors’ world championships and 112 of the team’s 164 grand prix victories.

The Vodafone McLaren Mercedes team begins pre-season testing with MP4-25 at the Circuit de la Comunitat Valenciana Ricardo Tormo on Monday.

2011 Third-generation Toyota Sienna Minivan

Toyota is the first carmaker in North America to be offering this innovation. The Auto Access Seat has a seat-mounted ingress/egress switch and a wireless remote control that allows for easy and flexible seat operation. The seat is able to rotate 90 degrees and can be lowered to within 19 inches of the ground to further facilitate easier passenger transfers at the exact height required. The Toyota Sienna is well known as a transportation solution for moving people and cargo comfortably and efficiently. The third-generation Toyota Sienna will look and drive more like a sedan, conform to new ideas about personal comfort, easily accommodate cargo, and handle big loads. The Toyota Sienna will come in five conveniently configured grades, all sharing a distinctly new visual direction and features. Toyota unveiled the all-new, third-generation Toyota Sienna minivan at a media conference at the 2009 Los Angeles Auto show.

2011 Third-generation Toyota Sienna Minivan

The 2011 Sienna has been reinvented to handle these needs as it shifts to a more expressive and dynamic vehicle with a stronger profile, high shoulder character and responsive handling. The 2011 Toyota Sienna may be the Japanese automaker's third-generation minivan, but Toyota emphasizes that the new Sienna is becoming more carlike than ever. The Sienna gets smart updates to its drivetrains and to its interior package for 2011-but not to its seating configurations, which still lag the class-leading Dodge Grand Caravan and Nissan Quest in flexibility. The Sienna is offered in a broad model range, and continues to be the only minivan with an all-wheel-drive option.

2011 Third-generation Toyota Sienna Minivan

The third-generation Sienna combines a contemporary style with features not previously seen in a minivan, and a fun-to-drive spirit that will surprise many, along with the flexibility, spaciousness and features that have defined the segment. The Sienna was designed by Toyota's Calty Design Research and developed at Toyota Technical Center in Ann Arbor, Mich., with assembly being accomplished at Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Indiana.

2011 Third-generation Toyota Sienna Minivan

A Toyota first rear-seat Dual View Entertainment Center is another innovative option. The system uses two displays side-by-side to create a seamless 16.4-inch widescreen image from a single source. When two separate entertainment options are called for, the system can split the screen into two individual screens, each with input from separate sources. Used as a single screen, it can be easily seen from the third row, and it can be operated from any seat via remote control. Used as two screens, the system can accommodate the preferences of two separate passengers who might want to play a video game or watch a second DVD simultaneously via auxiliary inputs.

2011 Third-generation Toyota Sienna Minivan

A choice of two responsive DOHC engines will be available: a 3.5-liter V6 or 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine. By adding the alternative of a four-cylinder engine, the 2011 Toyota Sienna is the first minivan in years to stray from the V-6-engine-only formula. Both engines offer the latest in efficient, lightweight technology, including Dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i), roller rocker arms and an Acoustically Controlled Induction System (ACIS) that changes the length of the air-intake pipe to supply more torque on demand. 

2011 Third-generation Toyota Sienna Minivan

The 3.5-liter V6 makes 266 horsepower at 6,200 rpm, with expected EPA-estimated mileage ratings of 18 mpg city/24 mpg highway (16 mpg city/22 mpg highway on AWD models). It also has a 3,500-pound tow capacity. With 187 horsepower at 5,800 rpm, the 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine produces responsive power that exceeds some competitors V6 performance, while delivering expected EPA-estimated fuel efficiency ratings of 19 mpg city and 26 mpg on the highway. Given its upgraded engineering, every Toyota Sienna will ride well and track cleanly through corners, but none more so than the newest addition to the line: the sporty SE.

2011 Third-generation Toyota Sienna Minivan

The Limited is designed for customers who want all the features with more luxury. The standard equipment list is extensive, including new second-row Lounge Seating and a power 60/40 Split & Stow third-row seat, front and rear parking sonar, dual moonroof, Smart Key, and Safety Connect™. Select options include those available on the XLE plus HID auto high-beam auto-high beam headlamps, rain-sensing wipers, and Pre-Collision System (PCS) with Dynamic Radar Cruise Control.

2011 Third-generation Toyota Sienna Minivan

The Toyota Sienna will come in five grades: Sienna grade, LE, SE, XLE and Limited. All-wheel-drive is available with the V6 on LE, XLE and Limited models. The all-new 2011 Toyota Sienna will begin arriving at Toyota dealerships in February 2010.

2011 Third-generation Toyota Sienna Minivan

Toyota is the first carmaker in North America to be offering this innovation. The Auto Access Seat has a seat-mounted ingress/egress switch and a wireless remote control that allows for easy and flexible seat operation. The seat is able to rotate 90 degrees and can be lowered to within 19 inches of the ground to further facilitate easier passenger transfers at the exact height required. The Toyota Sienna is well known as a transportation solution for moving people and cargo comfortably and efficiently. The third-generation Toyota Sienna will look and drive more like a sedan, conform to new ideas about personal comfort, easily accommodate cargo, and handle big loads. The Toyota Sienna will come in five conveniently configured grades, all sharing a distinctly new visual direction and features. Toyota unveiled the all-new, third-generation Toyota Sienna minivan at a media conference at the 2009 Los Angeles Auto show.

2011 Third-generation Toyota Sienna Minivan

The 2011 Sienna has been reinvented to handle these needs as it shifts to a more expressive and dynamic vehicle with a stronger profile, high shoulder character and responsive handling. The 2011 Toyota Sienna may be the Japanese automaker's third-generation minivan, but Toyota emphasizes that the new Sienna is becoming more carlike than ever. The Sienna gets smart updates to its drivetrains and to its interior package for 2011-but not to its seating configurations, which still lag the class-leading Dodge Grand Caravan and Nissan Quest in flexibility. The Sienna is offered in a broad model range, and continues to be the only minivan with an all-wheel-drive option.

2011 Third-generation Toyota Sienna Minivan

The third-generation Sienna combines a contemporary style with features not previously seen in a minivan, and a fun-to-drive spirit that will surprise many, along with the flexibility, spaciousness and features that have defined the segment. The Sienna was designed by Toyota's Calty Design Research and developed at Toyota Technical Center in Ann Arbor, Mich., with assembly being accomplished at Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Indiana.

2011 Third-generation Toyota Sienna Minivan

A Toyota first rear-seat Dual View Entertainment Center is another innovative option. The system uses two displays side-by-side to create a seamless 16.4-inch widescreen image from a single source. When two separate entertainment options are called for, the system can split the screen into two individual screens, each with input from separate sources. Used as a single screen, it can be easily seen from the third row, and it can be operated from any seat via remote control. Used as two screens, the system can accommodate the preferences of two separate passengers who might want to play a video game or watch a second DVD simultaneously via auxiliary inputs.

2011 Third-generation Toyota Sienna Minivan

A choice of two responsive DOHC engines will be available: a 3.5-liter V6 or 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine. By adding the alternative of a four-cylinder engine, the 2011 Toyota Sienna is the first minivan in years to stray from the V-6-engine-only formula. Both engines offer the latest in efficient, lightweight technology, including Dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i), roller rocker arms and an Acoustically Controlled Induction System (ACIS) that changes the length of the air-intake pipe to supply more torque on demand. 

2011 Third-generation Toyota Sienna Minivan

The 3.5-liter V6 makes 266 horsepower at 6,200 rpm, with expected EPA-estimated mileage ratings of 18 mpg city/24 mpg highway (16 mpg city/22 mpg highway on AWD models). It also has a 3,500-pound tow capacity. With 187 horsepower at 5,800 rpm, the 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine produces responsive power that exceeds some competitors V6 performance, while delivering expected EPA-estimated fuel efficiency ratings of 19 mpg city and 26 mpg on the highway. Given its upgraded engineering, every Toyota Sienna will ride well and track cleanly through corners, but none more so than the newest addition to the line: the sporty SE.

2011 Third-generation Toyota Sienna Minivan

The Limited is designed for customers who want all the features with more luxury. The standard equipment list is extensive, including new second-row Lounge Seating and a power 60/40 Split & Stow third-row seat, front and rear parking sonar, dual moonroof, Smart Key, and Safety Connect™. Select options include those available on the XLE plus HID auto high-beam auto-high beam headlamps, rain-sensing wipers, and Pre-Collision System (PCS) with Dynamic Radar Cruise Control.

2011 Third-generation Toyota Sienna Minivan

The Toyota Sienna will come in five grades: Sienna grade, LE, SE, XLE and Limited. All-wheel-drive is available with the V6 on LE, XLE and Limited models. The all-new 2011 Toyota Sienna will begin arriving at Toyota dealerships in February 2010.

2010 Ferrari F10 Specifically to compete in the Formula 1 World Championship

Scuderia Ferrari unveiled today its 2010 challenger, the Ferrari F10. The F10 single-seater was presented with a new livery, with both the front and the rear wing white painted. The F10 is the fifty-sixth single-seater built by Ferrari, specifically to compete in the Formula 1 World Championship. The name of the car renews the tradition of being linked to the year in which it makes its debut in the Championship. The project, which went by the internal code number 661, represents the Scuderia's interpretation of the technical and sporting regulations which apply in 2010. 

2010 Ferrari F10  Formula 1

The rule clarifications issued by the FIA during the course of the previous season as regards to the diffuser have opened up new scenarious for the designers in terms of freeing up this area, thus representing the opportunity to deliver potentially great performance advantages. Compared to the F60, the F10 was obviously conceived with the aim of maximizing the aerodynamic performance of the double diffuser. Therefore the engine mountings to the chassis have been modified in a specific way and also redesigned is the shape of the gearbox casing and the rear suspension layout.

2010 Ferrari F10  Formula 1

It only takes a quick glance to note that the front part of the chassis is considerably higher than on last year's car and that the central upper and lower surfaces are hollowed out, in order to improve airflow. Another major rule change is that race refuelling is banned, which means the fuel cell has to be big enough to allow the car to get to the end of the race, whatever type of circuit. Inevitably, the car is longer to accommodate the new fuel tank and to allow the installation of longer and narrower radiators so that the sidepods have a smaller higher aperture with a more cut-out shape at the bottom. A further tapering as been achieved thanks to a revised and unconventional configuration of the exhausts.

2010 Ferrari F10  Formula 1

The need to start the race with a much heavier car than in the past has required a redesign of the basic characteristics of the braking system, carried out in conjunction with Brembo as well as a new design for the relevant cooling system.

2010 Ferrari F10  Formula 1

Safety levels have been increased thanks to the introduction of new crash tests of the rear bulkhead and the cell with a full load. In light of past incidents and the fact that pit stops will take less time, the wheel nuts have been updated so as to increase security when the car is sent back out on track.

2010 Ferrari F10  Formula 1

Before its track debut, the F10 underwent an intensive dynamic and static bench test program. Significant developments on all areas of the car are built into the program, not just in the run up to the opening round of Bahrain, but throughout the entire year. 

2010 Ferrari F10  Formula 1

As always, much attention has been paid to the performance and optimization of the materials used, at the design stage and through quality control, in an effort to extract the maximum level of performance combined with the highest possible safety levels.