Michael, Author at OVALNEWS.com - Always fanatical; Occasionally interesting Land Rover & Range Rover News

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InControl Touch Pro in the new XF reveals more of what’s to come for Range Rover infotainment & digital gauges

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It sounds really good on paper – we’ll have to see how good it is in real life.

InControl Touch Pro

The all-new Jaguar XF is the first model to feature the equally new InControl Touch Pro™ infotainment system. At the heart of InControl Touch Pro is a 10.2-inch capacitive touchscreen. There are no buttons on either side, instead, all the functionality has been neatly integrated into the bottom section of the touchscreen.

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"Jaguar InControl Touch Pro is the most sophisticated infotainment system we’ve ever developed and uses a quad-core processor, solid-state driver and Ethernet to deliver exceptional performance. The 10.2-inch touchscreen and features such as our latest navigation that can learn your commute make every journey in the all-new XF more rewarding." – Ian Hoban, Vehicle Line Director, Jaguar XF

Like a smartphone, the home screen can be customized; wallpaper can be set to any image, and widgets can be added to provide shortcuts to favorite features. It’s even possible to add extra home screens. The touchscreen also features ‘pinch to zoom’ gestures familiar to all smartphone users.

Map data for InControl Touch Pro™ is stored on a solid-state drive (SSD) that can be accessed in a fraction of the time taken with conventional hard drive systems. Dead-reckoning functionality, which interprets vehicle data up to 40 times a second, can accurately position the vehicle even when GPS signals can no longer be received.

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Utilizing a data connection enables even greater functionality and location-based features and information. The all-new XF offers door-to-door route planning and guidance incorporating public transport options, Commute Mode which learns your daily drive so that it can automatically offer alternative routes to avoid congestion using historical and real-time traffic information, and Approach Mode which shows a 360° interactive view of your destination when you’re approximately 650ft away.

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On-board, Gracenote album art stored on the SSD drive enrich the music listening experience while functions such as ‘Play more like this’ make it simpler to access all of your favorite tracks. Adding to the experience, InControl Touch Pro™ includes a 17-speaker, 825W digital surround sound system developed with renowned British audio experts Meridian™. The system benefits from the Meridian Trifield™ and Audyssey’s MultEQ XT technologies which ensure optimum sound reproduction with benchmark low levels of distortion.

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The modules which make up InControl Touch Pro™ are connected using Ethernet. With a bandwidth of up to 1Gbit/ second, Ethernet can handle massive amounts of data, enabling very high infotainment system performance.

Together with a powerful quad-core processor and the solid-state drive, Ethernet allows InControl Touch Pro™ to deliver smooth graphics and extremely fast response times. These two technologies also ensure that the system’s capability can be further enhanced in the future.

Reconfigurable, 12.3-inch full-TFT instrument cluster

It only took Jaguar Land Rover using the digital gauge cluster tech for 5 years before they make something that actually competes with other manufacturers who started later but didn’t seem to compromise. It does look good!

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Michael2015-04-01T11:13:56-04:00April 1, 2015|

North American updates for the 2016 Range Rover, HSE is getting 380hp V6 from Range Rover Sport HST

All things we’ve already read about but in a more detailed list – new items:

New for the 2016 Range Rover HSE is a 380hp supercharged V6 engine
A turbodiesel Range Rover HSE will be available in North America for the first time
Surround Camera System improvements; when surround view is selected; the images from each camera combine to create an overhead view of the vehicle.
Hands-Free Gesture Tailgate is activated via sensors at sides of bumpers for easy curb access
I’m going to call out the details on the Automatic Access Height system as the most interesting new information:

For the 2016 model year, the driver-adjustable access height function becomes fully automated. The Automatic Access Height system automatically lowers the vehicle’s air suspension once the transmission is placed in Park (P), for improved entry and exit into the vehicle.

When the ignition is switched off or the driver’s seatbelt is removed, the vehicle automatically lowers by 1.4in (35mm) to aid entry and exit. Should any door handle be activated, the height decreases by an additional 0.6in (15mm) for enhanced convenience. The total time from switching the ignition off or removing the seatbelt to achieving a maximum ride height reduction of 2in (50mm) is three seconds. The vehicle automatically returns to its optimized ride height at a speed of 9mph (15km/h).

Official PR:

2016 Model Year Range Rover line-up

Complementing the introduction of SVAutobiography, a comprehensive suite of revisions will be available for the 2016 Range Rover line-up, underlining its status as the ultimate luxury SUV. Key updates extend to a more powerful V6 engine and turbodiesel options for the HSE model, all-new convenience features including a Gesture Tailgate, Automatic Access Height, improved Surround Camera System and enhanced smartphone connectivity with a revised suite of Land Rover InControl™ technologies.

New for the 2016 Range Rover HSE is a 380hp supercharged V6 engine. Building on the all-aluminum 3.0-liter supercharged V6 engine, with its laser-drilled injectors, two-stage oil pump and diamond-like coating for pistons and gudgeon pins, Land Rover engineers have carried out detailed calibration changes to achieve extra power for the 2016 model year. A potent 380hp, increased by 40hp over the previous version is the result.

With maximum torque available at 3500rpm and a broad power band, the new 380hp supercharged V6 provides effortless in-gear acceleration coupled with outstanding levels of refinement.

A turbodiesel Range Rover HSE will be available in North America for the first time as part of the 2016 model year enhancements. Featuring a single turbocharger, Low Pressure Exhaust Gas Recirculation (LPEGR) and a two-stage oil pump to reduce losses, the 3.0-liter Range Rover Td6 engine offers a powerful 254hp and 28mpg highway, providing excellent performance, reduced running costs and an exceptional cruising range of up to 658miles (Highway) for maximum convenience. Peak torque of 440lb. ft. is available at just 1,750rpm to ensure effortless in-gear acceleration and the capability to tow up to 7,716lbs (3500kg) with exceptional flexibility.

A Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) system uses Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) to reduce NOx emissions, ensuring the Td6 achieves US LEV 3 status. The DEF is injected into the exhaust and, as the resulting mixture passes through the SCR, NOx is turned into harmless nitrogen gas.

In addition to the cleansing efficiency of the SCR, every aspect of the Td6 engine has been optimized to ensure emissions are as low as possible. This includes the new Low Pressure EGR system which has been critical to success of Td6 emission ratings and further improves fuel economy.

All-Terrain Progress Control (ATPC) makes the world-renowned off-road capability of the Range Rover more accessible. Operational from 1.1mph to 19mph (1.8km/h to 30km/h) in forward and reverse gears, ATPC allows an ultra-low creep speed to be set using the steering wheel-mounted cruise-control interface when stationary or when the vehicle is in motion². This allows the driver to concentrate purely on steering the vehicle over and around obstacles, while it maintains a constant speed that may otherwise be difficult to achieve over very challenging terrain. By reducing driver distractions and optimizing traction in this way, ATPC enhances off-road capability and safety. ATPC can be overridden by simply pressing the brake or accelerator.

The new Surround Camera System² provides improved clarity, creating sharper and clearer images on the central touchscreen display. A network of four cameras positioned in both front and rear bumpers and the side mirrors crisply relays the vehicle’s surroundings to the driver for maximum safety and convenience. The reverse camera automatically displays the view behind the vehicle when reverse gear is engaged; when surround view is selected; the images from each camera combine to create an overhead view of the vehicle.

A standard rear-camera wash system operates in conjunction with the rear window wash function to improve visibility in inclement weather.

The standard Hands-Free Gesture Tailgate integrates hands-free functionally to the powered electric tailgate. Vehicle owners will simply have to point a foot under either rear corner of the vehicle to gain access into the luggage area. The proximity sensors are located to the sides of the rear bumper rather than the center, allowing the tailgate to be conveniently operated from the curb. This feature is also fully compatible with a tow bar, so the exceptional 7,716lbs towing capacity of the Range Rover is uncompromised.

The suite of Land Rover InControl® connected-car technologies continues to expand for 2016, with advanced new standard features.

InControl® Remote™ allows drivers to remotely activate vehicle systems using a smartphone app. Functions include:

Remote Lock/Unlock enables owners to verify the vehicle’s status, and lock or unlock the doors as desired
Remote Alarm Reset sends a smartphone alert if the vehicle alarm is sounding, and provides the option to remotely reset if required
Remote Beep and Flash helps to locate the vehicle in a busy parking lot by flashing its lights and sounding discreet alarm pips
Remote Engine Start allows owners to bring the cabin to a pre-set temperature using the climate control system

InControl® Protect™ can connect the driver with Roadside Assistance through the simple push of a button or can automatically call emergency services and notify them of the vehicle’s location should the airbags deploy. InControl® Remote™ & Protect™ are subscription based services, which are complimentary during the new vehicle warranty period.

InControl® Apps™ allows smartphone users to seamlessly access and control compatible third party apps stored on their device through the vehicle’s touchscreen³.

The Range Rover SVAutobiography, along with the updated Range Rover 2016 Model Year line-up, will be on sale Fall, 2015.

Michael2015-03-29T20:49:51-04:00March 30, 2015|

550PS Range Rover SVAutobiography is real and replaces the Autobiography Black

My bullet points from this 2016 Range Rover SVAutobiography – official PR follows below:

Range Rover SVAutobiography replaces Autobiography Black
Available in Standard Wheelbase(SWB) & Long Wheelbase(LWB)
Duo-tone body paint – always Santorini Black on top with a choice of 9 colors for lower body
Lots of solid knurled aluminium touch points – really nice touches
Other general 2016 Range Rover Updates: Gesture Tailgate, Washer Jet for rear camera, Automatic Access Height

RANGE ROVER SVAUTOBIOGRAPHY TAKES

LUXURY TO NEW HEIGHTS

· New flagship Range Rover SVAutobiography debuts at the 2015 New York International Auto Show, delivering enhanced design sophistication and craftsmanship

· Most powerful production Range Rover ever with 550PS V8 Supercharged engine specially tuned for SVAutobiography

· Distinctive Duo-Tone paint available for the first time, complementing an enhanced interior

· SVAutobiography exclusively produced by Jaguar Land Rover Special Vehicle Operations

· Powertrain enhancements and new technology features also announced for all Range Rover variants

Whitley UK, 30 March 2015 – Land Rover will unveil the Range Rover SVAutobiography at the 2015 New York International Auto Show, adding even more luxury, design sophistication and performance to an enhanced line-up.

Speaking ahead of the exclusive model’s world premiere in New York, Land Rover’s Design Director and Chief Creative Officer Gerry McGovern stated: “With the SVAutobiography we have taken the opportunity to optimise the Range Rover’s luxury execution and precision while delivering beautiful detailing that considerably enhances the customer’s experience of our flagship vehicle.”

Exclusively crafted at Special Vehicle Operations’ (SVO) Technical Centre in the UK, SVAutobiography features unique exterior design enhancements, an exclusive premium leather interior with unique trim finishes and the option of a 550PS 5.0-litre V8 supercharged engine for the first time. As a result, the SVAutobiography is the most luxurious and powerful series-production Range Rover in the model’s successful 45-year history.

John Edwards, Managing Director of Jaguar Land Rover Special Operations, said: “Range Rover originally defined the luxury SUV segment and the new SVAutobiography, developed by Special Vehicle Operations, takes Range Rover to another level of comfort, craftsmanship and refinement.”

Exclusive design enhancements

Available in standard and long wheelbase derivatives, the 2016 Model Year SVAutobiography takes the flagship Range Rover to even greater heights of design sophistication and levels of luxury execution. New features and exquisite detailing further consolidate its position as the world’s most luxurious and capable vehicle.

For the first time on Range Rover, customers of the 2016 Model Year SVAutobiography are able to specify a unique Duo-tone body colour option. The combination of Santorini Black upper body and nine colour choices for the lower body create true distinction and individualism.

The 2016 Model Year vehicle is distinguished with new Range Rover bonnet lettering and the tailgate is adorned with the new SVAutobiography badging. The unique front grille is finished in distinctive Graphite Atlas and polished chrome, further promoting its visual differentiation.

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On the most powerful 550PS supercharged V8 version, quad tailpipes subtly hint at the huge reserves of power available.

World-class luxury interior

Much of the driver’s switchgear including the start-stop surround and rotary controls are machined from solid aluminium with beautiful knurled details, as are the foot pedals. This detailing continues to both the front and rear centre consoles, with distinctive materials for the cup holder and socket covers. New armrest adjusters not only bring a similar level of machined detail, but also make them even easier to use.

Rear-seat passengers relax in luxurious seating complete with a chiller compartment and powered deployable tables. Solid aluminium coat hooks are incorporated into the rear pillars while, on the floor, aluminium seat rail finishers and deep twist pile mohair carpet mats complete the feeling of sumptuous luxury.

A leather-covered handbook and polished Autobiography key fob with knurled finish add finishing touches.

New to Range Rover for 2016 Model Year, the SVAutobiography offers the option of a sliding loadspace floor. Made from beautifully crafted aluminium and a choice of veneer options, the floor extends rearwards to optimise practicality and ease of use for loading and unloading.

For those customers who enjoy the versatility of Range Rover’s split tailgate, SVO has developed ‘Event Seating.’ Stowed in the luggage compartment, these can be quickly and easily deployed to provide comfortable seating for two adults on the tailgate lower. Hand crafted from beautiful Windsor leather with a highly durable aluminium frame, this option will appeal to those who appreciate the duality of Range Rover’s ‘business and pleasure’ characteristics.

Incredible performance, unrivalled comfort

Replacing the Autobiography Black at the top of the Range Rover line-up, SVAutobiography is available with a sensational 550PS V8 supercharged engine, combining peerless luxury with the most powerful engine in Range Rover’s history. The all-aluminium 5.0-litre V8 supercharged engine, used to power the high performance Range Rover Sport SVR, has been re-tuned for the SVAutobiography. The potent engine produces an outstanding 550PS and 680Nm of torque, noticeable increases of 40PS and 55Nm respectively, compared with existing V8 supercharged Range Rover derivatives.

With maximum torque available at 3,500rpm and a smooth and sophisticated ZF eight-speed automatic transmission, the SVAutobiography provides a breath-taking blend of performance, in-gear flexibility and refinement, no matter how challenging the terrain.

The 550PS derivative has been engineered and optimised for unparalleled comfort and refinement, and features Brembo front brake callipers in gloss black finish.

Alongside the V8 supercharged engine, SVAutobiography customers can choose from the SDV6 Hybrid and SDV8 powertrain derivatives with increases in efficiency and performance for the 2016 Model Year.

Desirable enhancements across the 2016 Model Year Range Rover line-up

Complementing the introduction of SVAutobiography, a comprehensive suite of revisions underlines Range Rover’s status as the ultimate luxury SUV.

Courtesy of detailed calibration changes, the SDV6 Hybrid benefits from even lower CO₂ emissions, and SDV8 derivatives are now offered with advanced stop-start technology, delivering 33.6mpg and CO₂ emissions of 219g/km.

Unrivalled off-road capability is a hallmark of the Range Rover line-up but Land Rover has provided even greater confidence for customers by extending the availability of its innovative All-Terrain Progress Control system to include SDV8 derivatives.

Underlining its status as the most luxurious SUV in the world, the 2016 Model Year Range Rover benefits from a host of additional and improved convenience features. These include a new, improved Surround Camera System with crisper graphics for enhanced clarity and an integrated washer jet for the rear camera.

The new Gesture Tailgate standard feature provides hands-free access to the luggage area while Automatic Access Height automatically lowers the vehicle once parked, for improved entry and exit.

Land Rover’s InControl™ technologies continue to develop and now offer even greater smartphone connectivity, user convenience and market availability. InControl™ Remote Premium allows owners to remotely check the fuel level, lock and unlock the doors and flash the lights or sound the horn to help identify the vehicle in crowded car parks, all using a smartphone app.

Priced from £148,900/$199,495, the Range Rover SVAutobiography will be on sale from summer 2015. The updated Range Rover 2016 Model Year line-up will also be on sale this summer.

Michael2015-03-29T21:17:23-04:00March 29, 2015|