Lancia Delta will be the “Official Car” of the world celebration of twenty years since the fall of the Berlin Wall

Lancia renews its commitment to pressing social issues by taking on a starring role in one of the most significant celebrations of the last few years. The fall of the Berlin Wall changed history forever, and today it is increasingly seen as a symbol of all the struggles against the barriers to knock down, both physical ones as well as cultural ones in particular.

On 9^th November, a fleet of Lancia Delta cars will be accompanying all the numerous institutional guests along the streets of the German capital up to Brandenburg Gate where the spectacular celebration ceremony will take place.

Lancia’s engagement will also be testified by one of the dominos for the Festival of Freedom onto which the brand will be able to imprint its DNA, interpreting this historic moment through its values and its own identity.

“Delta” is the symbol for difference, for that additional factor which drives every evolution, every improvement and this is why the Lancia saloon has always been the carrier of messages and actions which have defied the status quo.

An example of this is the advertising campaign starring Richard Gere which raised awareness amid the public opinion on the Tibetan issue and the moving 30’’, aired at the beginning of the year, which paid homage to Aung San Suu Kyi, Nobel Peace winner in 1991, in support of her liberation. This latter project was devised on the occasion of the 9^th World Summit of Nobel Peace Prizes which took place last December in Paris and scheduled this year to take place in Berlin itself, following the celebration of twenty years since the fall of the Wall.

The 10^th World Summit of Nobel Peace Prizes will in fact open its doors on 10^th November and the main theme will be the knocking down of social and cultural barriers, which still exist in many places around the globe today. Lancia will be the Main Sponsor of the Summit and the fleet of Lancia Delta cars placed at the disposal of the event will have the honour of accompanying the Nobel prize winners taking part.

Lancia Delta - affordable luxury

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The Lancia Delta perfectly embodies the notion of affordable luxury by fulfilling the modern requirements of mobility and prestige thanks to the concept of downsizing, i.e. ensuring performance and luxury at reduced cost, size and consumption levels. In order to remain a benchmark for the segment, the 2009 Delta range was recently revamped with the introduction of a new engine, a new version and new technological features.

Executive - the new Lancia flagship

The Delta Executive is the top-of-the-range model for a sophisticated clientele: one that cares about technology but is mindful of tradition, which demands substance but also exclusivity and prestige. These people are businessmen, managers and professionals that can mix tradition with innovation and rationality with emotion, but they are also figures from the institutional and diplomatic arenas.
Because it is aimed at customers seeking more style and comfort, the exclusive rear seating area of the Delta Executive offers the same comfort as a business-class seat on a long-haul flight. In fact, the comfort in the rear is the best in its class, proving that Lancia has given plenty of thought to the passenger area. That is what makes the Executive perfect for important official events.
On the outside, the Delta Executive boasts a two-tone chassis (light bronze body and glossy black roof), special two-tone diamond-edged alloy wheels, the golden "D" logo on the pillar and the word "Delta" on the rear window, as well as the special fog light design. On the inside, the Lancia Delta Executive has luxury beige Frau Pieno Fiore leather-upholstered seats with wrap-round head restraints and chocolate-brown piping, black leather dashboard and gear stick frame with black lacquered inserts, two smoked ceiling courtesy lights and leathers embellished with new and elegant beige and chocolate-brown stitching.
The new version can be fitted with the powerful 200 hp 1.8 Di Turbojet (Euro 5) and Sportronic automatic gearbox, or with the 190 hp 1.9 Twin Turbo Multijet and 165 hp 2.0 Multijet turbodiesel engines. Inspired by the Delta Platino, the exclusive Executive comes with the following as standard: electronic variable damping suspension (Reactive Suspension System), rear parking sensors, six airbags, dual-zone automatic climate control, Granluce sunroof, Instant Nav satellite navigation, Absolute Handling System with Drive Steering Torque (DST), fog lights with cornering function and front armrest with cooling compartment.

200 hp 1.8 Di TurboJet
The whole world acknowledges the ability of Italian carmakers to produce fiery and gritty engines, real jewels born out of the experience and passion of the engineers combined with years of technical know-how. The new 200 hp 1.8 Di TurboJet (Euro 5) is no exception.
Produced by FPT – Fiat Powertrain Technologies, the new engine delivers maximum power of 200 hp (147 kw) at 5,000 rpm and a peak torque of 320 Nm (32.6 kgm) at 1,400 rpm. Combined with a Sportronic six-speed automatic/sequential gearbox, the 200 hp 1.8 Di TurboJet offers unparalleled driveability: it has a top speed of 230 km/h and goes from 0 to 100 km/h in just 7.4 seconds. Despite this incredible performance, fuel consumption and emissions are surprisingly low: 7.8 l/100 km in the combined cycle and 185 grams of CO2 per kilometre respectively.
This innovative engine therefore underlines Lancia Automobiles' commitment to the environment both in terms of low emissions and reduced fuel consumption. All this further enhances the liveliness, flexibility and driveability that have always been features of the model. To achieve these results, the 200 hp 1.8 Di TurboJet uses direct petrol injection, a turbocharger and two continuous variable valve timing units for exhaust and intake. The combination of these various technologies gives the customer key benefits such as direct injection, which enables reduced fuel consumption in relation to engine performance. In addition, the turbocharger linked to the twin variable valve timing units provides quick acceleration thanks to a particularly good torque curve.
Here, in detail, are all the new features brought in by the 200 hp 1.8 Di TurboJet, which was designed and developed by engineers at Fiat Powertrain Technologies (FPT), the division of the Fiat Group that is wholly responsible for the innovation, research, design and production of engines and gearboxes for any type of machine: from cars to industrial vehicles, and from boats to agricultural equipment. With around 20,000 employees, 16 factories and 11 research centres across nine countries, the division is one of the most important global players in the power unit field. At FPT, around 3,000 highly specialised technicians are dedicated to developing and engineering innovative technologies. More than 40 patents filed every year is proof of the quality and seriousness of this commitment, making FPT a centre of excellence for technology and continual innovation.
Scavenging technology: the brilliant performance of the engine is largely the result of using advanced scavenging technology to maximise torque even at very low speeds, ensuring incredible responsiveness.
Effective scavenging is achieved by continuously monitoring and optimising the engine operating parameters such as fuel dosage, the position of the two variable valve timing units, the ignition advance and the injection timing. In practice, it is possible to define valve overlap angles and times with extreme precision, generating a direct air flow from the intake manifold to the exhaust manifold and driving the turbocharger in very short times. This new system therefore makes far better use of the turbocharger than conventional turbo petrol engines. It is controlled by an innovative ECU installed with ultra-modern engine parameter management software. The results are surprising: peak torque at 1,400 rpm is 70% greater than that of a conventional turbo engine and response times have been more than halved, closely approaching those of a naturally aspirated engine.
Direct injection: lowers temperatures in the combustion chamber through fuel evaporation and considerably reduces the likelihood of explosion. This allows superior performance to be achieved even at quite high compression ratios (around 9.5) and guarantees low fuel consumption at partial throttle settings.
Direct injection is essential for reducing emissions through an advanced dual-injection system. Direct control over the injection process also ensures that no fuel escapes from the exhaust port during the scavenging phase to compromise the functioning of the catalytic converter. Finally, the second-generation injection system features a new, high-pressure pump (capable of managing fuel pressures of 150 bar) and innovative seven-hole injectors capable of guaranteeing perfect fuel vaporisation under all engine operating conditions.
Twin variable valve timing units: the two continuous variable valve timing units on the intake and exhaust camshafts optimise valve timing at all engine speeds and loads, minimising both fuel consumption and emissions. With the two valve timing units linked to the turbocharger, it is possible to manage the scavenging strategy by establishing the ideal valve opening and closing overlap. When the driver demands a sudden increase in torque, the system ensures rapid response even at very low revs.
Turbo: the engine is fitted with a next-generation turbocharger linked to an innovative pulse converter exhaust manifold that optimises the use of exhaust pressure waves to increase torque at low engine speeds. Both the manifold and the turbine are made of microcast steel to withstand the very high operating temperatures (up to 1020°C) needed to reduce fuel consumption while driving at medium-high speeds, on motorways for example.
Thermal fluid dynamics: the intake ducts are designed and optimised through the use of mono- and three-dimensional computing technologies that have enabled them to reach a high enough level of turbulence. The design of the combustion chamber has also been optimised by extending the squish areas and minimising the ratio between surface area and volume, to the benefit of combustion. Lastly, the exhaust ducts have been designed to work in sync with the exhaust manifold and to maximise its pulse converter effect.
Friction: the entire engine has been designed to minimise power losses through friction. The pistons feature rings with low tangential load, and advanced materials have been used to minimise wear. The cylinder head incorporates valve-controlled roller rocker arms that have reduced sliding contact losses at 2,000 rpm by 65% compared with direct control. It is a solution commonly used in premium-brand engines.
Optimised crank design based on a very long connecting rod and a fairly short piston stroke has minimised the vibrations normally associated with straight-four engines at high speed. In this way, balancing countershafts can be dispensed with, making the engine even lighter and therefore reducing consumption.
Performance: the scavenging technology and an innovative management system enable the engine to set new performance benchmarks. Specific torque is exceptional at 185 Nm/l, one of the highest figures for any modern engine. Maximum torque of 320 Nm is reached at only 1,400 rpm – another excellent value. This guarantees superb acceleration, making the car extremely responsive and avoiding the need for frequent gear changes. Finally, the engine reaches a high specific power of 115 hp/l at the relatively low speed of 5,000 rpm and keeps this power level constant up to 5,500 rpm.
In short, the 200 hp 1.8 Di TurboJet (Euro 5) boasts a torque comparable to that of an aspirated V6 with almost double the cubic capacity but, thanks to downsizing, you can bank on significant weight reduction to improve efficiency.
Emissions: one of the priorities for technicians at FPT – Fiat Powertrain Technologies was ensuring, together with excellent performance, minimum emissions, in keeping with Lancia Automobiles' philosophy of using care for the environment as a reference point for creating and constantly improving its products. Just like the three Lancia Delta diesel engines (190 hp 1.9 Twin Turbo Multijet, 120 hp 1.6 Multijet and 165 hp 2.0 Multijet), the brand new 200 hp 1.8 Di TurboJet (Euro 5) is Euro-5 compliant, ahead of the regulation coming into force.

Next-generation systems and technology
In keeping with the Lancia tradition, the Delta makes significant strides in technological innovation for driving dynamics, safety and comfort. The best example is the inclusion of next-generation systems and devices (some appearing for the first time in the segment) that can make even the shortest journey a pleasant experience. Here are three key features now available in the Delta range.

Sportronic: six-speed automatic gearbox
Combining the 200 hp 1.8 Di TurboJet with an automatic six-speed gearbox really enhances the flexibility and pick-up of the engine, which gives the Lancia Delta a smooth drive that can satisfy the tastes of different customers by providing comfort and sportiness.
The gearbox is compact and light, and has been designed with particular attention to reducing fuel consumption. Efficiency has been improved by using a low-friction oil and the inclusion of a sixth gear is particularly useful for motorway driving. The precise management software recognises different road conditions and adapts handling through the following functions: braking assist, slope recognition, cornering, sporty or comfortable drive.
Driveability is further enhanced by the option of choosing Winter, Norm and Sport programmes, as well as the manual mode (TIP), with steering wheel controls that underline the sporty nature of the Delta.

Electronic variable damping suspension (Reactive Suspension System)
The Lancia Delta's suspension system uses a solid framework that is comfortable and light: at the front, it is MacPherson-type with crossmember and wishbones optimised for new load conditions; at the rear, there is a torsion beam and anti-roll bar for excellent handling.
The major innovation on this model is a feature developed in collaboration with Magneti Marelli: an avant-garde oscillation damping system (Reactive Suspension System) reserved until now for the most modern cars in higher categories and applied for the first time by the Fiat Group to a mid-class car. The Reactive Suspension System - through real-time electronic control of the shock absorbers - reduces vehicle oscillation in all driving conditions, ensuring better safety, comfort and handling. Using sensors, the system identifies the best control mechanisms for the driving and road surface conditions. Among these mechanisms is the Sky Hook function, which isolates the passenger compartment by completely protecting it from outside stresses and strains.
In addition, thanks to the high calculation capacity of the ECU and the instantaneous response of precise electrovalves, the system immediately neutralises bumps from uneven road surfaces and enables excellent dynamic control even in sporty driving mode (which can be selected) by improving handling and precision.
Finally, the Reactive Suspension System shortens the car's stopping distance (by around 5% thanks to optimum contact between tyre and road) and ensures timely intervention in the event of emergency manoeuvres in order to restore safe conditions smoothly.

Magic Parking: parking assistance
It is often hard to find a parking space in towns and cities with a lot of traffic. Of course, once you find one, actually parking the car can prove rather challenging because the space is so tight. That is why the Lancia Delta has an innovative parking aid that helps the driver to judge whether a space is big enough and to actually carry out the parking manoeuvre. First, the system measures the length of the free space and indicates whether it is big enough for your car.
Then, it automatically steers the car during reversing, allowing the driver to concentrate solely on controlling speed by using the accelerator and brake.
With one single manoeuvre, the vehicle parallel parks in such a way to limit the number of subsequent realignments made by the driver. Of course, the driver is always in control by operating the pedals, and can deactivate the system by turning the steering wheel or disengaging reverse gear, or by pressing the appropriate button.
In essence, the system consists of a radar sensor on each side of the vehicle, located inside the front bumper. The radar is beamed into the space on the right (or left) and the echoes are picked up by the sensor, which reconstructs a map of the area between the parked cars, visualises the free space and identifies any obstacles. At the same time, using information coming from wheel speed measurement, the system can measure the length of the free area.
The driver is informed that the parking space is ok if the measurement is equal to the length of the car plus 130 centimetres (65cm at the front and 65cm at the back), i.e. a total of at least 5.82 metres. If a suitable space has been found, there is a beeping noise and a message on the display indicates whether the parking manoeuvre can be completed in a single or multiple stages.
If the driver feels the space is suitable and engages reverse gear, the system can control lateral movement through electronic steering, allowing the driver to take his/her hands off the wheel and concentrate on controlling the car with the accelerator and brake. At this stage, the maximum speed is 7 km/h and the driver can cut out the system simply by taking control of the wheel again.

Lancia at the 63rd Frankfurt International Motor Show

Image by pietroz via Flickr

Lancia is back at the Frankfurt International Motor Show with the Delta, the Ypsilon and the Musa - prestigious cars that showcase the best of Italian style.
The main attraction is the brand new Ypsilon ELLE, the show car born out of a collaboration between Lancia and the ELLE brand, a symbol of modern femininity that sets trends each season with a vast range of women’s clothing and accessories. Further evidence of the link between Lancia and the world of fashion at the Frankfurt show comes in the shape of the Musa Poltrona Frau, the top-of-the-range version of the "city limousine" that has been the best-selling MPV in Italy for nearly two years. This version combines the style and attention to detail of Lancia cars with the exclusive, sophisticated leather and the craftsmanship of Poltrona Frau.
Also making its first appearance on the Musa is the new Start&Stop system, developed by Engineering & Design and FPT in partnership with suppliers such as Bosch and Magneti Marelli, which temporarily switches off and then restarts the engine (when the car is stationary and the engine is idling). Coming just a few months after the launch of the ECOCHIC hybrid petrol/LPG versions, this is yet another example of Lancia being constantly aware of environmental issues by researching and developing concrete and affordable solutions. This strategy can be summed up in the motto "The environment is a luxury we can all afford".
Alongside these exclusive versions, let us not forget the Lancia Delta - a model that embodies the notion of affordable luxury by fulfilling the modern requirements of mobility and prestige thanks to the concept of downsizing, i.e. ensuring performance and luxury at reduced cost, size and consumption levels.
Lancia's latest offerings are on display in new and evocative surroundings: the exhibition area moves away from trade show traditions in favour of a more poetic stand. At the centre of it all are children, their world and their hopes for the future; a forward-looking brand knows how important it is to listen to its customers of tomorrow. This gives rise to a unique setup where children’s universe - particularly their handwriting - joins together with the latest fashions and colours. Large blackboards form the ideal surfaces for a story; leaves on the pavement become footrests with displays; the road itself is simply drawn out in chalk. A child's handwriting is conspicuous on the walls, while the black slate is dominated by trails of white and blue light. Everything can be written on - there are no boundaries to fantasy.
At Frankfurt the public can see the Delta Executive, the new flagship car aimed at business and institutional customers as well as those in diplomatic circles. Its main feature is the rear area of the passenger compartment. The seats are business class: cosier and more comfortable. As they are set further back, there is more legroom, which is especially nice for long journeys. The Delta Executive therefore represents a real modern alternative to bigger, heavier, more expensive flagship cars with higher fuel consumption levels. No wonder it was chosen to transport international delegations at the recent G8 Summit in L'Aquila.
Not forgetting that the Lancia Delta has become the car of the cinema. In fact, over the last year this model has been the official car of the most prestigious film festivals sponsored by the brand: after its debut at the 65th Venice International Film Festival, a fleet of Deltas accompanied film stars to the red carpet in Rome, Barcelona, Milan and Turin. Also, the Lancia Delta was written into the Columbia Sony Pictures film Angels and Demons. But the relationship between the Delta and the cinema does not stop there. Remember that the exclusive saloon was launched internationally in an advert that was more like a short film, featuring the acting talents of Richard Gere and a soundtrack composed by Oscar winner Ennio Morricone.
The second new feature of the Lancia Delta 2009 range is the 200 hp 1.8 Di TurboJet engine - the most powerful in its class. It is an innovative direct petrol injection engine that underlines Lancia's sporty nature and its respect for the environment in terms of low emissions and reduced fuel consumption. All this further enhances the liveliness, flexibility and driveability that have always been features of the model. Produced by Fiat Powertrain Technologies (FPT) and coming with a modern Sportronic six-speed automatic gearbox, the engine has a maximum output of 200 hp (147 kW) at 5,000 rpm and a peak torque of 320 Nm (32.6 kgm) at 1,400 rpm. With this setup, the Lancia Delta has a top speed of 230 km/h and goes from 0 to 100 km/h in just 7.4 seconds. The car also stands out for its low fuel consumption (7.8 litres per 100 km), reduced CO2 emissions (185 g/km) and Euro 5 compliance.
Visitors to the Motor Show can get a close look at some of the innovative devices recently introduced to enhance comfort and driveability. First, there is the electronic variable damping suspension (Reactive Suspension System) that reduces oscillations and ensures the best possible safety, comfort and handling. Then there is the brand new Sportronic six-speed automatic gearbox with steering wheel controls, which comes together with the 200 hp 1.8 Di TurboJet engine. Lastly, the Lancia Delta features the semi-automatic Magic Parking system.
Many of these technological features - together with the bi-xenon self-adjusting headlights (Adaptive Xenon Light) and built-in satellite navigation system (Instant Nav) - were created as a result of collaboration between Lancia and Magneti Marelli. Not forgetting that the partnership between Fiat Group Automobiles, Magneti Marelli and Microsoft gave rise to Blue&Me, a system that Lancia Delta was the first to offer complete with a 'services' function after teaming up with Telecom Italia, as well as the traditional hands-free, stereo and navigation functions. It should also be remembered that the Blue&Me platform was recently enhanced by a new device: the MediaPlayer Blue&Me adaptor, which allows the car to communicate easily and quickly with an iPod or iPhone.
Finally, the public will be introduced to the products of FGA Capital, a financial joint venture between Fiat Group Automobiles and Crédit Agricole specialising in the automotive sector. Promotional material will be handed out and there will be customised display stands. The company, which works alongside major carmakers, operates in Italy and Europe with a single purpose: to support the sales of Fiat, Alfa Romeo, Lancia, Fiat Professional and Abarth branded cars by offering innovative financial products incorporating high-added-value services that are aimed at the dealer network as well as private and business customers.

Fiat Group Automobiles triumphs at the 56th Cannes Advertising Festival

Fiat Group Automobiles triumphed at the fifty-sixth edition of the Cannes International Advertising Festival winning, for the first time in its history, four of the sought-after prizes (a Grand Prix, two Gold Lions and a Bronze Lion), which are awarded to the best advertising and communication campaigns put out during the year. The Cannes Festival is the most important event of its kind in the world and brings together companies and advertising agents to choose the best TV adverts and designs, subdivided into various categories:

The two Gold Lions (Film and Outdoor categories) were won by the Fiat Brand with the campaign (TV and poster) devoted to the 500. The campaign was designed in France and effectively reflects the positioning of a manufacturer that is concerned with safety and the environment, with the most environmentally-friendly product range in Europe. In order to convey this twofold message, creative staff from the Marcel Paris dreamed up an original and amusing TV and poster campaign depicting some animals – representing endangered species – aboard a Fiat 500 during crash tests, all passed in complete safety due to the vehicle's qualities. A short text commented "designed to reduce impact on the environment" with the double meaning of eco-friendly/safety, demonstrating that safeguarding the environment and saving human lives are not mutually exclusive goals. When awarding the prizes, the festival panel recognised the originality of the campaign and the open way this topic was dealt with: the brand does not deny the impact of the motoring world on the environment but is doing all it can to minimise it.

The Fiat brand also won the prestigious “Grand Prix” in the Cyber category (for a campaign designed by the AKQA agency in London), awarded to the Eco:Drive project, which showed Fiat putting into practice the idea that a car manufacturer's environmental responsibility also extends to the way people drive their cars. For this purpose, the owners of cars equipped with Blue&Me can download a specially-created software application (from the address www.fiat.com/ecodrive) to check their driving style. Eco:Drive gathers all necessary information on a car's efficiency through the USB port of the Blue&Me system onto a pen drive. Once entered onto a computer, the system displays the car's detailed environmental performance, including its CO₂ emission levels for each trip. It also analyses the driving style and gives tips on how to change your driving style to achieve a lower level of CO₂, thus encouraging drivers to improve their environmental impact.

Worldwide, Fiat is one of the automotive companies offering the best response in the battle to beat the environmental impact of transport. To achieve this significant goal, Fiat offers specific products that make it the European leader in the production of compact vehicles, which are by definition the most eco-friendly. Two years ahead of time, the Fiat 500 and Fiat Bravo have introduced their Euro 5 power units; the numerous methane models make it possible to minimise atmospheric emissions and Fiat has continued to stay abreast of the international scenario with its LPG range on the Panda, Grande Punto and Bravo and its new Pur-O₂ range specific to 500, Croma and Bravo models. All this has allowed the Fiat brand to record the lowest average CO₂levels in its cars sold both in 2007 (137.3 g/km) and in 2008 (133.7 g/km): the record was acknowledged by the company JATO, world leader in automotive consultancy and research. The most recent Fiat models have also been awarded a five star EuroNCAP ranking, making them among the very safest cars.

Lancia also won a Bronze Lion in the Oudoor category with a campaign created and distributed in France on the Delta and its Autoparking System: in a typical Parisian setting, the driver and passenger are both able to read a newspaper unconcernedly while the car parks itself unaided.

This campaign also shows that Fiat Group Automobiles has invested a lot in innovation, not merely in its products but also in its way of communicating, making it more responsible and at the same time more appealing.

Lancia is the sponsor for the RomaFictionFest

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Lancia is the official sponsor for the RomaFictionFest 2009, scheduled to take place in the Italian capital between 6 and 11 July. It's the largest festival in the world dedicated to international television fiction in all its formats; from serials to TV movies, from mini-series to sitcoms. RomaFictionFest is put forward as the most comprehensive annual event to focus on global production, offering interesting new shows, some previewing for the first time.

The organisation will make available a fleet of 50 cars, customised with the show's trademark which will accompany all the stars and hosts of the RomaFictionFest onto theOrange Carpet.

Lancia will also support the 'Seriale' section of the Festival, which is the show's most represented. All works competing in this section will be screened in the Sala Lancia inside the Cinema Adriano.

Those taking part in the showings in the Sala Lancia may go into any Lancia dealership with their ticket counterfoil and try the new Lancia Delta.

By pairing up with the RomaFictionFest, Lancia is consistently continuing with its choice to support the seventh art even in its television expression. The values of the Lancia brand and its cars can also be found in quality fiction: style, quality of life, original and innovative solutions, personality, elegance and spirit.

Lancia Delta 1.8 Di Turbo Jet 200 HP

Lancia Delta reflects perfectly the concept of "Anticrisis Luxury" as it fulfils the current requirements of prestige and mobility thanks to the logic of downsizing - i.e. it ensures high quality and performance, reducing cost, size and fuel consumption. Thanks to these winning characteristics, in March this model became the leader of its car range in Italy and is fast growing at European level. In order to improve these results, today Lancia launches a new engine and a new version together with a number of technological changes that make this car the reference product for this car range.

The main innovation is represented by the 200 HP 1.8 Di TurboJet engine, the most powerful one of its range. It is an innovative petrol direct injection engine that confirms Lancia's preference for sports cars and, at the same time, its commitment to protect the environment by limiting emissions and fuel consumption.
These qualities are achieved by enhancing its brilliance, flexibility and the pleasure of driving which have always made this model stand out. This engine is produced by FPT – Fiat Powertrain Technologies - and is provided with a modern 6 speed automatic transmission. It delivers a maximum power of 200 HP (147 kw) at 5,000 rpm and a maximum torque of 320 Nm (32.6 Kgm) at 1,400 rpm. With such equipment, Lancia Delta can reach a maximum speed of 230 km/h and goes from 0 to 100 km/h in only 7.4 seconds. At the same time, the car stands out for low fuel consumption (7.8 litres per 100 km), reduced CO2 emissions (185 g/km) and a Euro 5 homologation.
The second innovation is the exclusive Executive version: a car addressed to clients who look for top luxury and comfort. The "top range" was designed to fulfil the requirements of business clients and members of the diplomatic and institutional worlds - as the attention invested in designing a comfortable passenger compartment shows. Seats are wrap around and comfortable as they are designed to business class standards. The back seats are comfortable for long trips with plenty of room for the legs. Therefore, Lancia Delta Executive offers a real, modern, in tune with the time alternative to bigger, heavier and more expensive cars. The fact this car was chosen to be the Official Car for the 9th World Summit of the Nobel Peace Prize held from 11th to 13th December 2008 in Paris - of which Lancia was the Main Sponsor - is not a coincidence. A Lancia Delta Executive fleet will also drive the international authorities to the G8 summit that will take place from the 8th to the 10th of July.
Lastly, the third innovation of the Lancia Delta 2009 range is represented by the marketing of some innovative devices aimed at making driving a comfortable and pleasant experience. First of all, there are the electronic suspensions with a variable damping system (Reactive Suspension System), capable of reducing car vibrations and ensuring maximum levels of safety, comfort and driveability. Then there is the brand new Sportronic 6 gear automatic transmission with controls on the steering wheels (currently the device is provided with only a 200 HP 1.8 Di TurboJet engine). The last technological innovation of the Lancia Delta is represented by the semi-automatic parking system called “Magic Parking”.
All these technological innovations - together with the self-adaptive bi-xenon headlights (Adaptive Xenon Light) and the integrated satellite navigator (Instant Nav) – were made thanks to the cooperation between the Brand and Magneti Marelli. We cannot forget that the cooperation between Fiat Group Automobiles, Magneti Marelli and Microsoft has given birth to Blue&Me™, a system complete with Telecom service functions - which Lancia Delta is the first one to offer - together with hands free, music player and navigation functions.

Lancia Delta was engaged for the Columbia Sony Pictures "Angels and Demons" new film kolossal. This film, inspired by Dan Brown's bestseller of the same title, is on the same line of the "The Da Vinci Code" and is also directed by Ron Howard, with Tom Hanks in the role of professor Langdon. Lancia celebrates this important product placement with a Delta Special Series that enhances the double soul of this model: an angel in terms of carbon emission and a devil in terms of performances. The proof is in the two engines available for this version, the 200 HP 1.8 Di TurboJet and the 190 HP 1.9 TwinTurbo, which ensure a better CO2/HP ratio for this range - i.e. maximum power for minimum emissions. The same winning features can be found in the other two models that make up the “Première Collection”: 105 HP Ypsilon 1.3 Multijet and 95 HP Musa 1.3 Multijet.
The Lancia Delta Limited Range, which is characterized by its pastel colours, a white main body and a polished black roof, has elegant interiors with a black leather and "Sport" Alcantara® covering. The rich equipment makes this range even more interesting: from the climate control system to the fog lights, from the CD MP3 radio to the steering wheels in leather with radio controls, from the Blue&Me™ system to the alloy wheels.
For the movie launch of "Angel and Demons" scheduled for the 15th May, Lancia has decided to launch an original communication campaign that goes under the slogan "One angel, 200 demons". Actions, performance and temperament: these three concepts dominate the commercial that, thanks to an agreement with Sony Pictures, exclusively shows some of the film shots of which the new 200 HP Delta 1.8 Di TurboJet is the protagonist. The press campaign is as sensational as the film as it combines one of the most emblematic film shots with a double image of the new Delta which clearly refers to its double soul: angelic on the outside, but with 200 demons inside. Lastly, a banner campaign and a web competition organised with the help of Sony Pictures, whose prize is of course a Lancia Delta, are about to be launched on the Internet.
However, the relationship between Delta and the film industry does not stop with the new "Angels and Demons" movie. The exclusive sedan was launched at international level with a commercial that is a true short film starring Richard Gere in the main role and with a soundtrack composed by the master, Oscar winning Ennio Morricone.
Furthermore, for the 9th World Summit of Nobel Peace Prizes, a film was produced to support Aung San Suu Kyi, winner of the Nobel Peace Prize in 1991 and prisoner of her own country. In Italy, the commercial was supposed to have the voice of Dario Fo as the narrator, a winner of the Nobel Prize for Literature.
Lancia Delta is increasingly the car chosen by stars. Since last year, this model has been the Official Car of the most prestigious film festivals sponsored by Brand: following its launch at the 65th Venice Film Festival, a fleet of Delta cars drove cinema stars to the red carpets in Rome, Milan and Turin.

Delta Executive, the new flagship Lancia

Geneva sees the debut of the Delta Executive, the new Lancia flagship which exactly matches the requirements of a refined customer who is alive to technological developments but knows the value of tradition, who wants a solid product but also exclusivity and prestige. These are businessmen, managers and independent professionals who know how to combine conceptually opposing values such as tradition and innovation, rationality and emotion, but who are also representatives of the institutional and diplomatic milieus.
Aimed, therefore, at customers seeking greater elegance and comfort, the Delta Executive offers an exclusive rear seat providing the same comfort as a business class seat on an intercontinental flight. In addition, the roominess of the rear passenger compartment in the Delta is the best in the market segment, confirming that Lancia has devoted the utmost attention to the space reserved to passengers rather than just the driver. So the original Executive version is also the perfect answer for prestige representation purposes.
The version shown at Geneva is fitted with the powerful 1.8 liter Di TurboJet engine developing 200 HP and Euro 5 compliant, coupled with a new 6-speed automatic transmission. In addition, from the outside, the Delta Executive is distinguished by its two-tone bodywork (body in Light Bronze and “Eclipse” gloss black roof), the special two-tone diamond-edged alloy rims, the gold “D” logo on the door pillar and the word “Delta” on the rear window as well as the special trims. Inside, the Lancia Delta Executive offers high-quality seats with new wraparound head restraints and dashboard covered in Frau Pieno Fiore beige leather with special chocolate brown edging, “Montblanc” black dashboard, double tinted glass courtesy light on the roof liner and leather embellished with new elegant stitching. Developed from the Delta Platino, the new version offers as standard: Reactive Suspension System, parking sensors, 6 airbags, dual-zone automatic climate control, Granluce sunroof, Instant Nav, Absolute Handling System, fog lights with cornering function, and a front armrest with refrigerator compartment.
Let’s look in detail at three very interesting features of the new Executive version of the Lancia Delta: the Absolute Handling System and DST (Drive Steering Torque) steering wheel; the electronic suspension with variable damping (Reactive Suspension System); and the new semi-automatic parking assistance system (Magic parking).


Absolute Handling System and DST (Drive Steering Torque) steering wheel

To ensure perfect control of the car by the driver, the Lancia Delta uses the “Absolute Handling System” – a development of ESP (Electronic Stability Program) - the system which intervenes in conditions close to the limit, when the stability of the car is at risk, and helps the driver to control the vehicle. In addition, two further systems are coupled to the Absolute Handling System: the Hill Holder system, which assists the driver on hill starts; the ASR anti-slip system (Anti Slip Regulation), which optimizes traction at all speeds using the brakes and engine control; and the MSR system (Motor Schleppmoment Regelung – Drag Torque Regulation), which cuts in and reduces engine torque when the gear is shifted down abruptly when climbing.
But the Absolute Handling System on the Lancia Delta is an “advanced” type in that it introduces some very important functions such as LTF (Linearisation Torque Feedback) and TTC (Torque Transfer Control). In addition, the new control system always intervenes “discreetly” thanks to its association with DST (Drive Steering Torque), the “active electronic steering system” which automatically makes corrections and corrects oversteer on low grip surfaces.
DST (Drive Steering Torque) is the innovative system which improves both driving safety and handling behavior. Under all driving conditions, the electronic steering system suggests to the driver the correct maneuvers to be performed, resulting in optimum roadholding and instilling a great sense of security. It is the result of the continuous interaction between the electric power steering (which applies torque to the steering wheel) and electronic dynamic control (Absolute Handling System). In effect, DST automatically makes corrections, helps maintain control of the vehicle and makes the intervention of the Absolute Handling System more “discrete”.
There are three conditions under which the DST system proves particularly useful:
- In the event of oversteer the system performs the most appropriate maneuver to maintain control of the car under all conditions.
- MCF (Mu-Split Control Function) intervenes in the event of driving on surfaces with variable grip (for example, it often happens in winter that two wheels are on ice while the other two are on asphalt). In this particular case, the DST system orders an automatic countersteer which controls the car (avoiding a spin) and at the same time stopping as quickly as possible (braking distance reduced by 10%).
- LTF (Liberalization Torque Feedback): in sports driving, if the system detects increased lateral acceleration (above 0.6 g) it cuts in, providing increased torque against the steering wheel. In this way, it markedly improves the sensation of control on bends, especially at high speeds.
Finally, Lancia Delta offers the new TTC system (Torque Transfer Control) which improves the transfer of engine torque to the wheels and, in particular, guarantees optimum behavior of the car on bends, making it safer and more enjoyable in sports driving or in low grip conditions. The TTC system is based on exploiting the braking system which, accurately operated by the electronic control unit of the Absolute Handling System, creates behavior very similar to a limited slip differential (in other words the TTC system electronically simulates the presence of a self-locking differential). In particular, the front braking system, under acceleration on bends, operates on the inside wheel, thereby increasing the motive power of the outside wheel (higher load), thereby distributing the torque between the front driving wheels dynamically and continuously in accordance with the driving conditions and road surface.


Electronic suspension with variable damping (Reactive Suspension System)

The suspension layout used by the Lancia Delta makes use of a consolidated architecture optimized for comfort and lightness: the front suspension is MacPherson type with mechanical crossmember and wishbones optimized for the new load conditions; at the rear a torsion bar and anti-roll bar solution was chosen to achieve optimum driving performance.
But the biggest novelty of the model is the introduction of a system created in collaboration with Magneti Marelli: the innovative oscillation damping system (Reactive Suspension System), hitherto reserved for the most modern cars in the top segments and applied for the first time by the Fiat Group to a car in the medium segment. The Reactive Suspension System – using real time electronic control of the shock absorbers – reduces oscillations of the car body under all driving conditions, thereby guaranteeing the highest levels of safety, comfort and drivability. Using several sensors, the system identifies the driving scenario and the road conditions and chooses the most appropriate control programs. These include the function known as “Sky-Hook”, which isolates the passenger compartment and makes it notionally motionless with respect to external disturbances.
In addition, thanks to the computing power of the electronic control unit and the instantaneous response of precise electrovalves, the system immediately cancels out disturbances coming from uneven road surfaces and provides optimal dynamic control even in sports driving mode (selectable), improving handling and steering precision.
Last but not least, the Reactive Suspension System reduces the stopping distance of the car (by about 5%, due to the perfect contact between wheel and ground) and provides prompt intervention in the event of emergency maneuvers with subsequent smooth resumption of safety conditions.


Semi-automatic parking assistance system (Magic parking)

Finding a suitable parking space is often a difficult operation in cities with high traffic densities. And once one is found, due to the narrowness of the spaces available, the maneuver can be quite demanding. To counter this, the Lancia Delta has an innovative parking assistance system which helps the driver both to recognize whether a parking space is big enough, and to perform the actual entry maneuver. In fact, the system first measures the length of the free space, indicating whether it is sufficient for the car. Next, the system automatically steers the vehicle when reversing, leaving the driver to adjust the speed using accelerator and brake.
In a single maneuver, the vehicle is positioned correctly in a parallel parking space, optimizing entry into the free space available in order to limit the number of successive alignment maneuvers of the vehicle by the driver. Obviously, the driver has full control of the whole operation by operating the pedals, and can deactivate the system by operating the steering wheel or disengaging reverse gear, or alternatively pressing the dedicated push button.
The heart of the system is a radar sensor installed on the right and left sides of the vehicle, inside the front bumpers. The radar beam is sent into the space to the right (or left) and the echoes are detected by the sensor, which generates a map of the area between the parked cars, “sees” the free space and identifies other possible obstacles. At the same time, using the information coming from the measurement of wheel speed, the system is able to measure the length of the free spaces.
The driver is notified of the presence of a suitable parking space if the length measured is compatible with the dimensions of the vehicle plus 130 centimeters (must be at least 5.82 meters): an acoustic signal indicates recognition of a suitable space, while the display indicates whether the parking maneuver can be calculated in a single or several operations.
If the driver considers the parking space identified acceptable and engages reverse gear, the system is able to control the lateral movement of the vehicle using the power steering, allowing the driver take his hands off the steering wheel and control the movement of the vehicle exclusively with the accelerator and brake pedals: in this phase, the maximum speed allowed is 7 km/h and, if the driver wants to interrupt operation of the system, he need only resume control of the steering wheel.

New 1.8 Liter Di Turbo Jet engine producing 200 HP (with 6-speed automatic transmission) for Delta

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Lancia Delta is the ideal answer to the three fundamental and often opposing demands of the modern customer: it offers the space of a big sedan but the length of a compact; the power of a sports car, but with ecologically friendly emission levels and economic consumption; top of the range equipment, but at a “realistic” price. Lancia Delta therefore meets the needs of today's prestige customers by “downsizing”, in other words providing superior performance and luxury with low cost, size and consumption. In this context we have the debut of the new “direct gasoline injection” engine: the powerful 1.8 liter Di TurboJet engine producing 200 HP (Euro 5). Coupled with an advanced 6-speed automatic transmission, the innovative engine confirms the commitment of Lancia Automobiles in the field of environmental compliance in terms of containing emissions and reducing consumption. All of which further enhances the sparkle, flexibility and driving pleasure which have always been the hallmark the make.
Produced by FPT – Fiat Powertrain Technologies, the new engine delivers a maximum output of 200 HP (147 kw) at 5000 rpm and maximum torque of 320 Nm (32.6 Kgm) at 2000 rpm. Combined with a 6-speed automatic/sequential transmission, the new 1.8 liter 200 HP Di TurboJet engine provides unmatched excitement and driving pleasure. As shown by the performance values - maximum speed of 230 km/h and acceleration of 0 to 100 km/h in just 7.4 seconds. And, despite this exciting performance, the consumption and emissions of the Lancia Delta fitted with this engine are low: respectively 7.8 l/100km in the combined cycle and CO2 emissions of 185 g/km. The new engine is Euro 5 compliant.
To provide high power, remarkable flexibility and sparkling output, the new engine introduces direct gasoline injection and turbocharging using continuous dual VVT (variable valve timing) on both the inlet and exhaust side. The combination of these different technological solutions offers customers significant advantages. For instance, direct injection gives low fuel consumption in relation to the power produced by the engine. And the turbocharger linked to the dual VVT allows rapid response, due to a particularly favorable torque curve.
It should be emphasized that combination with a 6-speed automatic transmission further enhances the characteristics of flexibility and speed of response, giving the Lancia Delta 1.8 liter 200 HP Di TurboJet engine an exceptionally smooth ride to suit customer preferences and the choice of comfort or sports driving. In particular, the system is distinguished by a compact and light transmission, which is designed with particular attention to reducing consumption: the use of low friction oil gives increased efficiency, and the 6th gear is designed to be particularly useful for motorway driving. The precise management software recognizes varying road conditions and adjusts drivability by means of braking assist, recognition of gradients and bends, preference for sports or comfort driving. Driving pleasure is further enhanced by the possibility of choosing “Winter,” “Normal” and “Sport” programs automatically, in addition to manual mode (TIP) with steering wheel controls which further illustrate the sporting character of this car.

Lancia at the 79th Geneva International Motorshow

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At Geneva Lancia is presenting new features on all the models in the Ypsilon, Musa and Delta ranges in terms of both style and power units. For these important previews a highly attractive and stylistic stand has been created, based on a haute couture showroom, in which black contrasts with the purity of white and the elegance of silver. In the same way, the fittings and materials used reflect the care and quality of craftsmanship used in the interiors of the Lancia models. The “Lancia Café”, a rendezvous and oasis of calm, makes a welcome return, as it did at the latest film festivals - Cannes and Venice – where it became a “must” for actors and show business stars. Designed to welcome the public in an elegant and engaging manner, the exhibition area allows the public to admire the latest developments in car design and, at the same time, experience the emotions of the Lancia environment.
The spotlight is on both the new Delta Executive, the luxurious flagship intended for customers looking for maximum exclusivity and comfort, and the novel Delta Hardblack, a show-car which has a completely matt Lava Black body and interior finish in Alcantara Starlite, also black.
The Delta Executive and Hardblack are fitted – in their world preview version - with the powerful 1.8 liter Di TurboJet engine developing 200 HP and Euro 5 compliant driving a new automatic 6-speed transmission. This is an engine with direct gasoline injection which, despite a sparkling performance (maximum speed 230 km/h - 0 to 100 km/h in 7.4 seconds), limits consumption and emissions respectively to 7.8 l/100km in the combined cycle and 185 g/km CO2.


Delta Executive, the new Lancia flagship

The Delta Executive is aimed at business, diplomatic and institutional customers. The main feature is the design of the rear passenger compartment. The seats are more supportive and comfortable, designed for a business class standard. With the front seats moved back, there is plenty of leg room, a real boon on long journeys. The Delta Executive therefore offers a real alternative, which is modern and in the spirit of the times, a flagship with better dimensions, weights, consumption and prices.
The Delta Executive is also the beneficiary of the latest Lancia technological advances, and in particular introduces the new variable damping electronic suspension system (Reactive Suspension), which is also available as an option on the rest of the range. Lancia will also be marketing its Magic Parking semi-automatic parking system after the Geneva show.


Ypsilon Versus, preview international

After its appearance as a show-car at the Paris show, the Lancia Ypsilon Versus has arrived for the first time in its production version. Conceived together with the Versus and produced in a limited edition of 1000, the Ypsilon Versus clearly states, in terms of car design, the stylistic features and typical colors of the new design label of the Versace Group. The new model will be on sale from March.
The other car born in partnership with the “Made in Italy” symbol is the Musa Poltrona Frau, which Lancia is offering at Geneva with interiors in shades of red and blue. The Musa Poltrona Frau represents the top of the Musa range, in which the spaciousness and compactness of the City Limousine are enhanced by leather inserts worthy of the best living room.


Ypsilon and Musa “Ecochic”: the new LPG range

The Musa, Ypsilon and Delta all represent an environmentally friendly car concept, being luxurious but accessible, spacious but compact, sparkling but frugal in consumption. At Geneva, Lancia is further enhancing its “green” credentials by presenting, as a world preview, a dual-power LPG and gasoline range. Known as “Ecochic”, the range includes the Musa and Ypsilon models fitted with the 1.4 liter twin-fuel engine producing 77 HP, and will be available from March.


Lancia a partner in the film “Angels and Demons”

Lancia is celebrating its major product placement in the film “Angels and Demons”, the follow-up to the hit “The Da Vinci Code”, with a limited edition of the Ypsilon, Musa and Delta. Under the dual concept banner “angel and demon”, the three models of the “Première Collection” feature a white body and a black roof. The three advanced engines are those which best express the twin spirit of the Lancia models: the Ypsilon 1.3 liter engine (105 HP), the Musa 1.3 liter Multijet engine (95 HP) and the Delta 1.9 liter TwinTurbo engine (190 HP) are in fact the cars with the best CO2/HP ratio in their category, in other words maximum power with minimum emissions.
Finally, the Lancia stand has a special corner dedicated to the growing collaboration between Lancia and Magneti Marelli and the technological equipment produced for the Lancia models: the Reactive Suspension System, the Adaptive Xenon Light headlights, the integrated GPS (Instant Nav) and the robotized transmission (Selectronic). In addition, the collaboration between Fiat Group Automobiles, Magneti Marelli and Microsoft has produced Blue&Me™, a system which for the first time Lancia Delta is offering complete with the “services” functionality in partnership with Telecom, as well as the standard functions of hands-free phone, music player and GPS navigation.

Fiat’s innovative “concierge for cars” mobility service demonstrated at the GSMA Mobile World Congress in Barcelona

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Innovative mobile services for Fiat, Lancia and Alfa Romeo cars will be showcased at the GSMA Mobile World Congress in Barcelona (Spain), at the Fira de Barcelona conference center, from February 16 to 19, 2009. The Congress is the world’s largest conference and innovations exhibition for the mobile industry.

The new Lancia Delta – the first new car of Fiat Group Automobiles to offer these services -, will be at the Congress’s “Innovation Zone”, an exhibition showcasing the latest applications, services and technological advancements from the world’s foremost innovators.
Fiat Group Automobiles and Telecom Italia, in collaboration with Accenture, jointly developed the mobility service capability. Visitors will be able to discover and test these innovative services:

- Info Service and Drive Me: With a simple push of a button, drivers are able to speak with an operator to get information on hotels, restaurants, museums, and even cinemas. The address is received directly via SMS to the car’s navigation system
- SOS Emergency: Drivers can push a button to request assistance. The car’s position is sent automatically to a service provider so the vehicle can be located and emergency services dispatched. This can also happen automatically in case of an accident.
- On-line Insurance Services: the car’s position can be recorded through the onboard global positioning system receiver and sent to an insurance company, providing a “tracking service”, with benefits in term of insurance costs.

This innovative system is based on Blue&Me Nav, the latest development of Blue&Me, which was first presented at the Geneva Motor Show 2006 by Fiat and Microsoft. Fiat Group Automobiles was the first motor manufacturer with whom Microsoft worked at developing a completely new on board platform. In the subsequent eighteen month period, this platform was followed by two further satellite navigation versions, namely Nav and Map and environment friendly application EcoDrive.
Launched in June 2008, the Lancia Delta is the first car to be offered with Blue&Me Nav with this wide range of services, thanks to the partnership with Telecom Italia.
Since the launch three years ago, nearly 700,000 Blue&Me systems have been sold (of which 70,000 have been Nav versions), all fitted to Fiat, Lancia, Alfa Romeo and Fiat Professional vehicles, with an average take-up of some 30%.
Within the Blue&Me, project Telecom Italia, supported by Accenture, has developed a dedicated ICT infrastructure, called “Infomobility Platform” enabling for Fiat Group Automobiles Service Delivery, Billing, Account Receivable & Credit Management and Mobile Communication Services to Fiat Group Automobiles for both consumer and business customers. The service is available within the major European markets (Italy, Spain, France, Great Britain, Germany).
This platform, using the underlying mobile telco capabilities, enables a multimedia connection between the car and the service; in addition a complete CRM – Service Desk feature set that allows to supply the complete, service creation, service delivery and order to cash processes.
“Blue&Me Nav” with all the on-line service suite is now available on all new Fiat Group Automobiles vehicles. In Europe Telecom Italia manages the Mobile connections between vehicle’s devices and the Infomobility platform, which also operate as a gateway for third parties support.
Telecom Italia plays the role of full service & business partner, supported by Accenture, in application design and service delivery platform implementation, which is integrated with the on-board electronic systems of Fiat Group Automobiles.
The Infomobility Platform is growing fast in order to be able to manage a wide range of services for OEM and Aftermarket Telematic Devices. Concerning this last market share, the tema.mobility consortium launched in 2008 between Telecom Italia and Magneti Marelli (Fiat Group) represents an important step to keep growing.
The fully integrated feature setof IT and Mobile Broadband capabilities of the Blue&Me Nav project represent one of the first and more advanced experience in market as a result of a complete synergy between Automotive and ICT Service Leaders.
Olivier Francois, CEO Lancia Automobiles, said: “The new Lancia Delta compact sedan introduced a new car concept in the automotive business. The fact that Lancia Delta was chosen to represent the latest developments in terms of info-telematics is an acknowledgment of our leading technology applied to customer care and service which always has been in Lancia's DNA. It also recognizes the great job done with all our partners."
Pasquale Ruggiero, Telecom Italia’s Marketing Manager for Transportation & Infomobility Services, said: “Telecom Italia is driving the market towards a new generation of Networked IT Services where devices, networks and platformswork togetherto create aneffective and easy-to-use experience. Infomobility is a strategic area where this approach is necessaryin orderto achievegreat performance and business goals”
“This is an excellent example of the way companies are moving to incorporate mobile networking into their products and services, and the Accenture platform on which these services are based facilitates communications across devices,” said Andy Zimmerman, Accenture’s managing director of New Business.

Fiat Group cars receive praise in Italy, Germany and the United Kingdom

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Image by Spillone via FlickrThe Fiat Group starts the new year by winning a number of coveted prizes awarded by the public or by authoritative panels of judges consisting of trade journalists. Readers of the Italian auto. magazine Quattroruote have taken part in two surveys (“Novelty of 2008” and “The Cars I Prefer 2008”) exceeding 157,000 votes received by telephone, the web or postcard. The prize for “Novelty of 2008” was assigned to the Alfa Romeo Mito which obtained 31.28% of the votes. Second was the Lancia Delta with 17.1%, and third was the Audi Q5 with 11.46%. The precious trophy was collected by Sergio Cravero, CEO Alfa Romeo Automobiles SpA, during the "Quattroruote Day" held in Milan.

Extraordinary success for the Fiat Group also in the second event - “The Cars I Prefer” – organized by Quattroruote jointly with other trade magazines of 17 different countries (scoring being monitored nationally). In the 10 categories envisaged, there were 6 Italian cars, namely the Fiat 500, which was first of the city-cars (51.7% of votes), the Alfa Romeo MiTo in the small car class (46.5%), the Lancia Delta in the medium-small class (24.7%), the Alfa Romeo 8C Spider in the cabrio class (25.9%), the Maserati Quattroporte in the flagship class (41.5%) and the Ferrari F430 Scuderia in the sports car class (14.3%).

The Fiat 500 won the “City Car of the Year” award sponsored by the “BusinessCar” magazine and, for the second time running, the coveted “Die Besten Autos 2009” sponsored by the German journal “Auto Motor und Sport” which mustered the opinion of 445,000 readers. In particular, this last award saw the small Fiat ahead of the Alfa Romeo MiTo (29.5%) in the imported vehicle category with 38.9% of the votes.

The Fiat Grande Punto Natural Power won the “Clean Car of the year 2008” award sponsored by “Autoambiente.com”, the on-line periodical entirely devoted to eco-sustainable mobility. The jury, consisting of trade journalists, expressed their opinion based on CO₂ footprint, performance, fuel efficiency and sales price of 35 cars – all marketed in Italy during 2008 – according to seven classes, namely Diesel, Gasoline, Dual-fuel LPG and Dual-fuel NG, the first three classes divided into categories up to 1.5 liter and over 1.5 liter respectively. The trophy – a wooden sculpture carved by the artist Fausto Lancini – will be presented to Lorenzo Sistino, CEO Fiat Automobiles, at the forthcoming Geneva Motorshow.