01983 885500 Motoring towards a greener future
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Harwoods Group Fiat News

January 3rd 2012

 

NEW FIAT PANDA COMING SOON...

 

See the all new Fiat Panda in our showroom on Saturday 25th and Sunday 26th February at our special weekend launch event.

 

Opening times;

 

Saturday; 9am-5pm

Sunday; 10am-4pm

 

 

 

 

 

 

TwinAir: The Revolution Starts Here.

 

 

 

 

 

PRESS RELEASE

TwinAir 85 HP, world preview

The new two-cylinder engine family made by FPT - Fiat Powertrain Technologies, called TwinAir, has made its debut. This is a brand-new concept on the worldwide auto scene and confirms the leadership of the Fiat Group in this field.
Using next-generation technology, the new engine implements the revolutionary MultiAir system combined with special fluid dynamics optimised for maximum fuel efficiency. Furthermore, by taking the concept of downsizing to the extreme and masterfully tuning the basic mechanics, the new family – delivering from 65 to 105 HP – emits 30% less CO2 than an engine of equal performance.

On sale from September 2010, the 500 will be the first Fiat model to adopt this, which will be the progenitor of a new family of engines: a 85 HP (900 cc) turbo two-cylinder with the lowest CO2 emission for a petrol engine (92 g/km with a Dualogic robotised gearbox and 95 g/km with manual gearbox) without skimping on performance or driving pleasure. This is thanks to the small-sized turbine which, combined with dedicated valve management strategies, minimises transient response times and, at the same time, keeps maximum power levels high. In this way, despite its small size, the engine ensures excellent performance and an appreciable reduction in fuel consumption: compared with a 1.2 8v, the new 85 HP turbo has 23% more power and a 30% better performance index. In fact, the performance of the two-cylinder is not only equivalent to a 1.4 16v, but consumption is a remarkable 30% lower.

Equipped in this way, the Fiat 500 reaches a top speed of 173 km/h and accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in only 11 seconds. This remarkable performance corresponds to a significant reduction of fuel consumption and emissions: 4.1 l/100 km and 95 g/km respectively on the urban cycle (with manual gearbox), that becomes 4.0 l/100 km and 92 g/km with a Dualogic robotised gearbox. Furthermore, the Fiat 500 with TwinAir 85 HP is provided with an ECO button – positioned on the dashboard – for further cutting fuel consumption in cities and guaranteeing very eco-friendly running. Two driving modes can be selected: Normal and ECO.

In the first mode, the ECO function is off and the engine delivers the maximum available torque (145 Nm), guaranteeing prompt, brilliant response and a "sportier" driving feel. Steering assistance is also specifically calibrated for Normal mode. No indication appears on the dashboard in this mode (City is not selected). Consequently, this configuration is recommended for maximum response and full enjoyment of all available torque.

In ECO mode, instead, the emphasis is on "eco-friendly" engine running: torque delivery is cut off to 100 Nm at 1750 rpm to minimise consumption and promote a driving style more suitable for city traffic. The steering wheel is lighter (CITY mode is automatically selected). The driver only needs to press the specific button on the dashboard to activate the ECO function. The lettering ECO will appear on the panel (the letter "E" will appear on the panel if the car has a Dualogic robotised gearbox). Furthermore, the Dualogic shifting strategy also switches to ECO mode to further optimise fuel consumption.

Furthermore, compared with a medium-sized four-cylinder of equal performance, the new engine is significantly shorter (-23%) and lighter (-10%), opening the way to further developments, such as methane fuel supply or hybrid technology combinations, again on the theme of greater eco-friendliness. In particular, a methane version of the TwinAir will be available soon providing a further CO2 emission reduction, by adopting a pair of special injectors in addition to the petrol injectors on the intake manifold ducts. Improving on these fuel saving results using internal combustion engines will be difficult and alternative technologies will need to be developed. The combination of traditional engines and electric motors appears particularly promising. Due to its reduced size, the TwinAir is quite suitable for being paired with an electric engine and in general with a device located between the engine and gearbox for recovering and storing the energy that is normally wasted during braking.

Interestingly, the TwinAir 85 HP comes with "Start&Stop" as standard. This device temporarily stops the engine and restarts it, ensuring reductions in fuel consumption and noise in the passenger compartment. The Gear Shift Indicator (GSI) associated to the Start&Stop system is a genuine "co-pilot" that discreetly suggests when to shift gear, leading to more efficient use of the engine in terms of fuel consumption. For example, the GSI may suggest shifting up, by means of an indication on the control panel, to allow the engine to burn a leaner mixture, i.e. one containing less fuel, or shifting down to make best use of the available torque.

Nothing short of an engineering gem, the two-cylinder implements the revolutionary MultiAir technology developed and patented by FPT – Fiat Powertrain Technologies, which was introduced on FIRE engines last year for the first time. The heart of MultiAir is a new electro-hydraulic valve management system that reduces fuel consumption by controlling air directly via the inlet valves (without using the throttle). MultiAir reduces polluting emissions (thanks to combustion control) and also considerably improves performance by boosting driveability with respect to a traditional petrol engine of equal displacement. In brief, the advantages of MultiAir technology applied to petrol engines are:

  • maximum power boosted by 10% compared with a traditional engine of equal size;
  • 15% more torque at low rpm and during transitions by applying early intake valve closing strategies to maximise the air introduced into the cylinders;
  • less fuel consumption and consequently lower CO2 emissions, equal to 10% by eliminating pumping losses and precise parameter calibration for optimising combustion;
  • lower polluting emissions from the engine by optimising valve control strategies during the intake stroke;
  • prompter response to accelerator commands due to the constant air pressure upstream of the cylinders combined with extremely fast control of the intake valves.

Also, the new TwinAir engine takes the concept of downsizing to an extreme: by combining a small-sized engine with a next-generation turbocharger performance comparable to – or even better than – that of a larger engine is obtained but with less fuel consumption and lower emissions. Not only that, the turbo significantly increases the maximum torque, making it available at a very low rpm, with the result of offering greater flexibility and an unrivalled responsiveness compared to conventional aspirated engines. All this comes with a simple build to the benefit of strength and reliability.

Last but not least, the new engine was painstakingly optimised and tuned. For instance, the basic two-cylinder architecture – combined with the low friction of internal parts – ranks this engine best in the world as far as friction is concerned. Furthermore, calculated simulations have been used to identify the best possible unit displacement in terms of thermo-dynamic efficiency, and the best fluid dynamic configuration to optimise and get the best out of the MultiAir system. Finally, special attention has been placed on the NVH (Noise, vibration, and harshness) aspect to ensure vibration performance at least equivalent to that of a four-cylinder, with equal performance but with a characteristic sound. For this purpose, a balancing countershaft was used to maintain optimal vibration levels in all operating conditions of the engine, from idling speed to top power.

 

 

 

11th March 2010

 

New Fiat Doblò: meet the “family space” vehicle

The model in brief

Meet the new Doblò, the new Fiat that is all about space. A space to be shared with family and friends, a liveable space for travelling and socialising, for whoever chooses the Doblò as a partner for leisure or work.
It was designed with practicality and comfort in mind to make the best of space on board and accommodate up to seven occupants. An authentic “family space” vehicle that can rely on top-class safety, cost-effective running and environment-friendliness.
Compared to the previous version, of which approximately one million units were sold in all its variants, the new Doblò has been revamped throughout with a new style, new engines and new technical features. These aspects make the new Fiat Doblò the best-in-class in terms of capaciousness and emission reduction. These results were achieved by a new platform, more room for passengers (with a wheelbase of 2755 mm, it is the longest in its segment), a roomy 790 litre boot (3200 litres with the seats folded down), lower CO2 emissions (129 g/km with the 1.3 Multijet 90 HP engine, the lowest in its category), an innovative Bi-link suspension layout for extra comfort, standard safety equipment and highly modular interiors with folding, reclining seats.

Style and comfort
The design is particularly innovative. With a central shield and side protection perfectly integrated into the front end combines protection and sophistication while the side puts the accent on the vehicle`s strength and agility.
The streamlined tailgate emphasises the accessibility and generous size of the boot. Sparkling clear light clusters and expansive windows add a touch of elegance to the look of the new Doblò.
The interiors have also been designed with functionality in mind to create appealing, welcoming environments with different combination of colours, materials and trims.
Smart solutions for the best use of on board space, such as a range of oddment compartments and flexible interiors with up to seven seats make Doblò perfect for enjoying with family and friends.

Environment and economy
The Fiat Doblò will be launched with four engine versions: a 95 HP petrol engine and three diesel Multijet engines (90, 105 and 135 HP). The range will later be complemented with the addition of a Natural Power engine with dual fuel system (petrol and methane) and another diesel engine with Dualogic robotized gearbox.
The entire engine range is Euro 5 compliant (except for the 1.3 Multijet - 90 HP). Standard equipment includes Start&Stop, a system which temporarily cuts off the engine when stopped in order to cut fuel consumption and emissions. All diesel engines are fitted with a DPF anti-particulate filter as standard.
All Doblò engines are lively with smooth torque delivery. They are distinguished by driving satisfaction, excellent performance, quietness, low running costs (fuel consumption and maintenance), as well as reliability and eco-friendliness.

Safety
For optimal dynamic behaviour, comfort and active safety in all road and load conditions, the Doblò is equipped with an innovative Bi-link rear suspension layout with variable component calibrations depending on specific variants. The Doblò implements state-of-the-art electronic stability control devices, such ABS with EBD electronic brake force distribution and, above all, ESP complemented by a Hill Holder system (standard on the entire range) that assists the driver when starting on a slope, for consistent, predictable handling.
With crumple zones, front airbags and innovative front side bags for head and chest protection (standard on all versions), the new Doblò is designed and built to reach the highest passive safety standards.
The new Fiat Doblò offers technical solutions and high-tech equipment to improve on board comfort and help focus on driving: automatic climate control system with rear distribution, MP3 stereo with controls on steering wheel, cruise control, parking sensors and a Blue&Me hands-free system and integrated “Blue&Me TomTom” navigation system.

 

 

Ends

 

 

1st March 2010

Fiat Automobiles dominates CO2 emission reduction ranking in Europe for the third year running

Among Europe`s best-selling automotive brands and for the third year running, Fiat Automobiles has logged the lowest average value for CO2 emissions of cars sold in 2009: 127.8 g/km (it was 133.7 g/km in 2009). The accomplishment was recognised by JATO, the world leader in automotive advisory and research services, founded in 1984 and now operating in over 40 countries. The bottom line shows FIAT ahead of Toyota (130.1 g/km), Peugeot (133.6 g/km), Renault (137.5 g/km), Citroen (137.9 g/km), Ford (140.0 g/km), Opel/Vauxhall (148.9 g/km), Volkswagen (150.4 g/km), AUDI (160.9 g/km) and Mercedes (176.4 g/km).

Fiat also ranks first among groups (131.0 g/km), ahead of Toyota, PSA, Renault and Hyundai. The success of the Group is driven firstly by Fiat`s achievement, but also by the excellent result of Alfa Romeo, which with an average reduction of 18.3 g/km and 109,542 cars sold, totalled the best global reduction on the entire range.

Fiat’s commitment has always aimed at the real needs of the public and will not be stopping here. The eco-friendly achievement is the result of a long-term strategy based on a two-pronged approach: implementing technological solutions aimed at containing consumption and emissions and raising the awareness of motorists to spur a more responsible, eco-compatible use of their car.

Firstly, unique, exclusive engines, such as the unprecedented Twin-Air two-cylinder which will be debuting in world preview at the Geneva Motor Show from 4th to 14th March 2010. Visitors to the Swiss event will have the opportunity to admire the first application of the engine in a Fiat 500 - the first Fiat model on which it will be introduced next September. With a displacement of  900 cc, a power of 85 HP and CO2 emissions equal to 95 g/km, it is the benchmark in its class.

Innovative solutions which are already available today include Multiair technology for petrol engines: by implementing a new electro-hydraulic valve control system, combustion is optimal at all times, CO2 emissions are cut by 25% and power is increased by 10% at the same time.

State-of-the-art technology is implemented also in the field of diesel engines, with second-generation 1.3 Multijet engines delivering a power of up to 95 HP. With 8 injections per cycle, the 1.3 Multijet II improves low rpm torque delivery by up to 25% and cuts emissions by 6%.

A fundamental boost to obtaining this result was given by the extraordinary growth of methane, the eco-friendliest, most cost-effective fuel available on the market today. A forward-thinking choice, started over ten years ago, has made Fiat become undisputed European leader, as demonstrated by 350,000 units sold until today and a wide range counting seven models for responding to all mobility needs.

Furthermore, Fiat has other innovative eco-tech solutions not strictly related to motor engineering, like the Start&Stop system, introduced on most models of the Euro 5 range, which temporarily stops the engine and starts it up again when the engine is idling and the car is standing: this reduces average fuel consumption by up to 12% on the urban cycle.

The second approach of the Fiat environmental protection strategy consists in raising the awareness of motorists to promote an increasingly more responsible, eco-compatible use of their car. These principles are implemented in eco:Drive, an innovative software program for analysing driving behaviour and helping motorists to optimise consumptions and emissions by connecting through the USB port of the Blue&Me system.

Since it was launched in October 2008, the application has been downloaded (free of charge from www.fiat.com/ecodrive)  approximately 100,000 times and is habitually used by nearly 35,000 motorists. This is a remarkable success in terms of popularity and above all a success for the environment, considering that the eco:Ville community has saved in total nearly 3,000 tons of CO2. The system has been recently complemented by the introduction of eco:Drive Fleet, a very easy to use, new version of the program dedicated to more efficient fleet management providing benefits for the ecosystem and for business.
 
Ends

 

 

 

2009 Isle of Wight `Fiat 500 Fun Run` 

(Click above for pictures and comments from the weekend).

 

 

 

 

16th February 2009

 

FIRST OFFICIAL PICTURES OF NEW 500 CONVERTIBLE

 

 

These are the first official pictures of the new Fiat 500 Cabriolet unveiled at the Geneva motor show last month.

The sardine tin-style electrically operated folding roof has been designed to maximise the Fiat 500 Cabriolet’s boot space, as well as referencing its Topolino ancestor. That means the new Fiat 500C has the same 185-litre load space as the hatchback, and also ensures that changes to the structure of the 500 body are kept to a minimum, reducing production costs and maintaining the 500`s attractive profile. The design also provides a more rigid structure improving roll over protection.

The new Fiat 500C will come with the same line-up of three engines that`s found in the hatch, and will be offered with the new ‘Start&Stop’ system as an option. All 500C`s will be fitted with air conditioning or climate control as standard.

Two new paint colours have been introduced - Pearl Red and Warm Grey - to compliment the ivory, red and black roof.

Prices are expected to start at around £11,300 when the Fiat 500C went on sale in May.

 

http://www.fiat.co.uk/500C/#future500c/landing

 

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8th August 2008

 

LEADING ISLAND PROPERTY AND ESTATE AGENTS TAKE DELIVERY OF 11 NEW FIAT 500`S

 

 

 

NEW ECO-FRIENDLY COMPANY CARS

Date Added: 08/08/2008

When the time came to replace part of their fleet of company cars, the partners at Hose Rhodes Dickson were not faced with a difficult decision. Richard Dickson, managing partner, said “we knew that we wanted something stylish and eye-catching and that it needed to be environmentally friendly, economic to run and safe to drive. The only car that ticked all the boxes for us was the new Fiat 500.”

Following a re-brand last year Hose Rhodes Dickson now have eye-catching white, green and red boards which can be seen across the Island, and they wanted a car which would fit in with their new image. Hence the decision was taken to purchase eleven of the most eye-catching cars available on the market today. All eleven are fitted with the ‘Italia’ stripe which ties in with the firm’s colours and also nods to the car’s Italian heritage. Numbered 1-11, each car forms part of the distinctive Hose Rhodes Dickson team which can be spotted out and about at a property near you.

Everyone at Hose Rhodes Dickson has been particularly impressed by the IW Council’s ‘Eco Island’ strategy. In keeping with the strategy environmental issues were a key factor in choosing the Fiat 500 which, with its 1.2 litre petrol engine emitting just 119 g/km of carbon dioxide, certainly helps to reduce the firm’s carbon footprint. Richard Dickson said, “we’re pleased to be doing our bit for the environment, particularly when this is supported by free car parking in any Council car park for vehicles with such low emissions”.

Obviously financial concerns are also high on the agenda and in the present financial climate it is perhaps surprising to see a firm of estate agents splashing out on eleven new cars, but that bears testament to the excellent value for money offered by the Fiat 500. Not only is free car parking on offer, but with road tax at just £35 per year and an economic petrol engine covering 55.4 miles per gallon this is a small car which offers Hose Rhodes Dickson big savings.

The Fiat 500 does not disappoint on safety either. A five star EuroNCAP safety rating, unusual in such a small car, ensures the firm’s staff and clients are afforded maximum protection in case of an accident, and ticks the last box on the partners’ checklist of requirements.

The staff and partners at Hose Rhodes Dickson are keen to support other local Island businesses and were pleased to be able to go to Harwoods for their new vehicles. With their servicing support these eleven little cars with big personalities are sure to keep a smile on the face of all who see and drive them for a long time to come.

The 11 identical 500`s line up ready for a photo-shoot at Newport Football Ground.

For friendly, expert advice from the Islands leading Property and Estate Agency simply click on the link below to visit the Hose,Rhodes and Dickson website.

http://www.hose-rhodes-dickson.co.uk/

Sales Consultant Tim Thomson hands over car No 9..

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HARWOODS OPENS ITS DOORS ON A WHOLE NEW FIAT EXPERIENCE.

 

 

A new, modern and bright showroom awaits visitors to our Fiat Dealership in Wootton. The result of a major investment in the franchise, the new showroom will display the latest Fiat range in one of the best showroom environments on the Island. Customers will also be able to experience Fiat Digital, a new and exciting interactive ‘virtual’ showroom, where they can build their ideal car and view it in full 3D on screen as well as see their model of choice in motion.

Following the success of the new Panda and Grande Punto and with the newly launched Bravo, Fiat Auto is going from strength to strength. UK sales were up by more than 62% last year helping Fiat to become the fastest growing main brand in Europe. However it was the imminent arrival of the eagerly awaited Fiat 500 and the launch of the new Fiat Identity programme that prompted Harwoods to make the investment in the new facilities. Peter Hand, group managing director said “ we are very excited about the Fiat franchise, it seems Fiat have found their direction and reinvented themselves in the process, the products are among the most attractive in the market and quality is evident throughout the range”

Harwoods looks forward to welcoming its customers, past, present and future to its new Fiat Centre.

 

 

 

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13th July 2008

THE FIRST ISLAND FIAT 500 OWNERS FUN RUN

 

 

 

At the crack of dawn on Sunday 13th July, twenty highly enthusiastic Fiat 500 owners added the finishing touches to their beautiful new cars before making their way to our site in Wootton for the start of the first Island 500 owners Fun Run. With gleaming paint and spotless wheels each and every car had been personalised to its owners preference using the available 500,000 combinations of specification and trim to full and very dramatic effect.

 

 

After lining up for a photo shoot the drivers and their passengers – over 50 people in total – were given a goody bag with vital supplies and a model Fiat 500 before being handed a Treasure Map. The Treasure Map contained over 100 clues the answers to which were to be found along a carefully planned route, which took the 500’s to Newport Quay, on  to B&Q for a small task, then to Carisbrooke Castle, Gatcombe. Rookley, Godshill and Shanklin Sea Front where the teams were split and sent in two different directions to prevent any cheating !!

 

Finally after some thirty miles the 20 Fiat 500’s together with their owners and passengers arrived at the Crab Inn in Shanklin where they were greeted by the ever hospitable Derry and Tina (themselves owners of a new 500) who had laid on a superb spread for our Fun Run participants.

 

Scores were calculated and the winners presented with their prizes. With the first fun run over and clearly a huge success, plans are already in place to hold a second event later in the year by which time over 70 new 500’s will have been delivered to Island Owners promising the event will be even bigger and even better than the last.

 

Peter Hand Managing Director of Harwoods said, “ the Fiat 500 presented us with the perfect opportunity to put some fun back into motoring, this fabulous little car has captured the publics imagination and offers an ideal solution for those wanting a green and economical car but who don’t want to compromise on style and fun. The 500 is also very safe having achieved the maximum 5 stars in the European NCAP crash tests. So often we deliver a new car and then don’t see the customer until its time for a service, events like this help to strengthen our partnership with our customers and create a more pleasurable ownership experience”.