When are green cars going to be green enough to be worth buying? With the cost of gas increasing at the current rate, electric plug-in vehicles are becoming the brightest alternative. Why bother with a gasoline engine when you can plug in your car each night for the same cost as running your washer or dryer? Not to mention having a virtually silent power source for your car. It seams like a no-brainer to me. So what are the options available today and in the near future?

In keeping with our name Fast Wallpapers, the Tesla Roadster is the only high performance model available to date. With a 0-60 mph time in around 4 seconds and a top speed of 130 mph, these stats touch into super car territory. With up to 250 miles per charge and a charging time of 3.5 hours using an electrician-installed home kit, this is the best out there. Charging from a standard outlet is available too.

You can see lots more Pictures and Wallpapers of the Tesla at fastwallpapers.com/Cars/Tesla/

A recent addition to the Electric car line up is the Subaru R1e. The R1e is still in testing mode, but it looks like Subaru is intent on taking this little car to production. No word on when this would be. Some suggest that the R1e could be available to consumers in Japan as early as 2009. With the constant improvements in battery technology, it is hard to say what the production R1e will be capable of, but there are prototype versions already on the streets capable of 75 miles on a single charge. Engineers estimate that the production version may be capable of 125 miles on a charge. This joint battery development between Subaru and NEC is reported to be capable of recharging to 90% capacity in five minutes with a lifespan in excess of 93,000 miles. You can read more about this economy electric car at drive.subaru.com.

You can Download your Wallpaper of the R1e at fastwallpapers.com/Cars/Subaru/R1e/

The California based Aptera, Greek for “wingless flight” has a very promising prototype. The Aptera Typ-1 is technically a motorcycle, this two-seat, three-wheeled vehicle looks more like an experimental aircraft then a car. Manufacturing the Typ-1 is set for later this year. The first production versions could be rolling down the streets of California as early as October. They are planning on producing 2 versions, the Typ-1e and Typ-1h. The e denotes electric and the h, gasoline electric hybrid. The Typ-1e is said to have a range of 120 miles and a complete charge in 2 to 4 hours at a projected cost of $1-2.

Pricing for the all-electric version will be $26,900, and the plug-in hybrid should be about $29,900. You can even reserve yours at their website aptera.com.

You can get your Aptera Wallpaper at fastwallpapers.com/Cars/Aptera/

Tesla Roadster Charging

Subaru r1e American Debut

Aptera Typ-1 e

Its official, after years of anticipation the “Ferrari Dino” or “Baby Ferrari” F149 is here and it has been worth the wait. Only limited details about the new California, as it will be called have been released to date. The California will be V8 powered despite speculation of a V6 propelling the baby Ferrari. The engine will be an all new 4.3 liter V8 engine, which is the same size as the engine in the current F430. This new engine will feature direct injection and a flat crankshaft, power is said to be around 450 at 7,500 rpm, which would make it marginally less powerful then its bigger brother the F430 but more fuel efficient and easer on the sky thanks to reduced C02 emissions.   Option reductions limit customers to only a 7 speed dual clutch transmission.  Performance has not been sacrificed with 0-60 mph run said to be accomplished in under 4 seconds.  The California will only be available as a hard-top convertible, which is a departure from Ferrari’s traditional canvas soft-top. Pricing is expected to be in the realm of Porsche 911, Aston Martin V8 Vantage, Mercedes Benz SL class with which it will co. More info will be available right here when the 2009 Ferrari California is reviled at the Paris Auto Show.

Ferrari Press Release: 
Maranello, May 13th 2008 – The first official photographs have been published of the Ferrari California, the latest addition to the new generation of Ferraris launched in 2004 with the 612 Scaglietti and added to more recently with the 430 Scuderia.The Ferrari California joins the Prancing Horse’s 8-cylinder family which has always been defined by power and performance. It also flanks the flagship 612 Scaglietti in the prestige sporty Grand Tourer segment.The new Ferrari California will satisfy even the most demanding of owners in term of its superb vehicle dynamics and driving pleasure. The new model will be available exclusively as a convertible with a folding hard top. Both chassis and bodywork are aluminium, in line with the rest of the current range. The California will be powered by a new V8 engine mounted for the first time in the marque’s history in the mid-front position.In line with Ferrari tradition, the new model also features several innovations. Apart from its folding hard top, these include the original 2+ concept which guarantees exceptional versatility of use in the rear of the car. The California’s 4,300 cc V8 engine features direct fuel injection and a “flat” crankshaft. It generates 460 CV at 7,500 rpm with a torque curve that enhances vehicle dynamics and provides maximum driving pleasure which is typical for Ferrari.As per the traditional Ferrari transaxle layout, the engine, which allows the Ferrari California to sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in less than 4.0 seconds, will be coupled to a 7-speed dual clutch transmission that boosts the car’s performance while enhancing the driving pleasure, improves ride comfort and reduces fuel consumption and emissions (c.310 g/km CO2). The comfort is further enhanced by a new multilink rear suspension system. The Ferrari California is also equipped with the exclusive F1-Trac traction control system which made its debut on the 599 GTB Fiorano and has been further honed to suit the typical driving conditions expected for this new GT. Brembo brakes featuring carbon-ceramic material disks as standard guarantee superbly efficient braking.In addition to sporting the marque’s classic styling cues, the cabin has also been beautifully trimmed using quality materials by Ferrari’s own skilled artisans. New accessories and equipment, such as the seats, steering wheel, instrument panel and infotainment system, together with optimised aerodynamics ensure that this is a highly ergonomic and enjoyable car to drive regardless of whether the top is up or down.The Ferrari California is aimed at owners who desire a car which embodies everything the Prancing Horse represents in terms of sporty design and innovation, but also seek a car with greater versatility than ever. The car will be officially unveiled to the public at the Paris International Car Show. However, over the coming weeks, new photographs and further details about it will also be published. 

Its the best 911 ever, even faster then a Carrera GT. Check out Fastwallpapers hot new Porsche 997 GT2 Gallery.

This Italian beauty is coming to America so watch out.

Check out the Fastwallpapers 8C Competizione Gallery

Subaru has at last revealed the new Impreza WRX STI. This new version is a step away from the old philosophy. The word refined comes to mind when siting in the new plush cabin. The wagon only styling is a real let down. The STI styling is a big improvement from the base WRX but wider body work and spoilers aren’t enough. Why won’t Subaru build a 2 door Impreza coupe again? That is what so many sports car enthuses want. Who in the right mind wants a 4 door sports car? All that extra weight slows the car and hurts fuel economy. Smaller is better when it comes to sports cars. Check out our gallery for lots more hi-res desktop wallpapers of the 2008 Subaru WRX STI.

Check out the Impreza Gallery at Fast Wallpapers

Aston Martin has made the best-looking cars since 1913. And the V12 Vantage RS is no exception. The V12 Vantage RS is based on the V8 Vantage. The V8 Vantage has been beloved ever since its introduction in 2006. The only criticism for the V8 has been its lack of power. A 380 horsepower 4.3 liter V8 produced good power but lacked real Super Car performance. Now free from the death grip of Ford motor company, Aston’s new leadership decided to make big news with a V12 Vantage RS concept. The engine of choice was the V12 engine from the DBR9 racecar that produces over 600 hp. This engine would add just under 200 pounds to the curb weight of the Vantage, but Aston engineers’ found a way to strip over 300 pounds from the chaise to a total weight of 3420 pounds.

To put this all in perspective, the 2007 Subaru STI weighs in at 3300 pounds and with 300 horsepower it can accelerate to 60 in 4.7, which is the same as the V8 Vantage. The V8 Vantage’s additional 80 hp is not enough to push the 300 extra pounds faster than the Subaru. The V12 Vantage’s 610 horsepower is almost double the original output and improves the Vantage’s time to the sub 4-second range. This 610 hp engine is also in the new DBS. With the DBS’s additional 350 pounds, it slows its 0-60 sprint to 4.3 seconds. All in all very respectable performance from the new V12 Vantage RS.

When the V12 Vantage RS hits showrooms in 2009 except to pay close to 200,000 each in a limited run of around 100 unites per year. It may be one of the most beautiful cars Aston Martin has ever produced and better looking than the DBS.

Check out our pics and wallpapers of the Aston Martin V12 Vantage RS

The DBS was feathered in the latest James Bond movie and gave car enthusiasts the first look at the new flagship Aston. The DBS represents the ultimate DB9. The DBS symbolizes outstanding power, race-bred technology and excellent design. Powered by a hand-built V12 engine producing 510 bhp, the DBS delivers breathtaking power and performance. Beneath the flowing lines of the lightweight bodywork, the DBS’s components have been honed to create an exhilarating driving experience: taut, dynamic and fast, and more controlled then the base DB9. The styling of DB9 has been adapted to give a more purposefully look.

Click Here to see more of the DBS

Check out our GT-R gallery for the latest wallpapers and desktops for the 2008 Nissan GTR. The design has been slightly reworked for production which takes away some of the attitude that the prototype have plenty of. See pictures of the prototypes as well as the final production GT-R.

Check out the Nissan GT-R Gallery

Aston Martin unveiled the DBS for the first time along with two new special editions – the Aston Martin DB9 LM and the V8 Vantage N400. Both special editions draw inspiration from the company’s recent achievements at Le Mans and the Nurburgring 24-hour races. The V8 Vantage N400 commemorates Aston Martin’s achievements at the Nurburgring, where the company enjoyed success in the grueling ADAC 24-hour race with the V8 Vantage N24 production racecar. Aston Martin develops and tests all of its road cars extensively on the Nurburgring Nordschleife circuit and the Vantage N400 recently broke the eight-minute benchmark around the legendary 14-mile circuit.

The 2008 Vantage N400 includes a number of performance improvements as well as enhancements to the car’s styling and standard features. The limited-edition model receives a needed boost in power to Aston’s 4.3 liter V8 engine, peak power rises from 380 to 400bhp, torque is up to 414lb ft. The handling has been improved as well, thanks to a Sports Package, which includes lighter-weight, graphite-finished alloy wheels and up-rated springs and dampers and a larger rear anti-roll bar.

The Vantage N400’s most noticeable exterior design improvement is the clear rear taillights. Side skirts have also received a more sculpted look. The Vantage N400 will be available in three new exterior colors; Bergwerk Black, Lightning Silver or Karussell Orange.

Interior enhancements include perforated black leather seats, micro-spin alloy interior trim and a unique numbered sill plaque. Transmission choice is between Sportshift automated manual or conventional manual transmission. Additionally, the Vantage N400 comes equipped with a range of normally optional equipment, including Satellite Navigation, 700W Aston Martin Premium Audio System, Bluetooth telephone preparation, HID headlamps, cruise control and memory/heated seats.

All in all the V8 Vantage has been a very good bargain form Aston and now it just got even better thanks to the upgrades in the M400 special edition.

The DB9 LM celebrates Aston Martin’s GT1 class victory in the Le Mans 24-hour endurance classic in June with the DBR9 – a racecar derived from the DB9.

This special edition car, available in Coupe form only with Touchtronic transmission, includes a unique Sarthe Silver exterior paint finish, meshes and rear crossbar finished in Magnum Silver and red brake calipers. Inside, the DB9 LM is fitted with handcrafted black leather finish, perforated leather inserts, unique ‘Tertre Rouge’ interior trim and numbered sill plaque. The car is also equipped with the normally optional DB9 Sports Pack as standard, including the lighter-weight wheels seen on the Vantage N400.

Check out the Gallery’s of all three cars DBS, N400, and DB9 LM

Alpine white with standard 18in wheels

Alpine white Rear view

The most anticipated new BMW heads state side in early 2008. The M3 has been BMW’s most sought after model since its original debut over two decades ago. The newest version, the fourth generation named the E92, is the best yet and deserving of the M title. With its technology, this M3 has managed to become closer to its racing pedigree while maintain the highest level of comfort and usability.

The most notable improvement from the last M3 is the 4.0L V8, which produces the most beautiful sound. This engine is worth a second look. Compared to the 5.0L V-8 in the previous M5 generation, this new 4.0L engine is nearly 100 lbs lighter and produces 20 additional horsepower. The current engine is 30 pounds lighter than the previous E46 M3’s I-6.

Thanks to individual throttle butterflies and Double-VANOS technology, the engine is more responsive and more fuel efficient throughout the rev range, which does not stop until 8,400 RPM. The M3’s engine is essentially a chopped version of the 5.0L V-10 found in the current M5 (E60) and M6 (E63). The M3’s V-8 produces 420 hp compared to the M5 and M6’s V-10’s 500 hp.

4.0L V-8 Engine

Aluminum hood with powerdome in Melbourne red

According to BMW, average fuel consumption of this powerhouse V-8 is said to be a respectable 22.8 mpg, proving the engineering skill of the BMW engine designers. Other journalists have found less then 15 mpg when flogging the M3 around mountain roads. The lightweight cylinder block is made with the same aluminum/silicon alloy that is used for BMW’s Formula 1 team engine blocks. These materials are proper supercar stuff.

BMW’s exceptional 6-speed manual transmission will be standard as usual and will incorporate temperature related oil cooling and a mass inertia optimized double plate clutch. Those who want an automatic (SMG) gearbox will have to wait till 2009. The M3’s body developed from the 3 Series Coupe only shares the doors and trunk. All the other components have been painstakingly developed with overall performance in mind. The hood swells to hint at the power below, two intake openings frame the hood. The fenders are flared to hide wider rubber. Front fenders incorporate typical M style grills with turn signal indicators. 18in wheels are still standard while optional 19in’s are much better looking and fill the wheel wells much better. The roof is made of carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic to reduce weight where it is needed most, on the top of the car. 11 pounds was shaved from the roof thanks to this hi-tech material.

Silverstone silver with optional 19in wheels

Melbourne red with 18in wheels and side grill

One of the new features of the M3 is Brake Energy Regeneration. A new technology BMW has implemented to cut on fuel consumption and ensure that as much power as possible is going to the road. During application of the brakes, this energy being created is harnessed and charges the battery. The battery provides much of the power to the car’s electronics, eliminating the resources of the engine power.

Electronically adjustable suspension, which is taking the supercar world by storm is finally in the M3, which BMW calls Electronic Damper Control (EDC), this great option lets the driver choose between three distinct ride profiles: Normal, Comfort and Sports. Engine response can be changed as well.

Melbourne red side mirror

Interior with Novillo leather in Palladium silver

The exterior mirror design does not strike me as good looking.
They may be more aerodynamic, and the double arm design is very reminiscent of the E36 M3’s mirror design, but I find the standard 3 series equipment to be much more attractive.

One option that should not be over looked by any track enthusiasts, driver and passenger seats with adjustable backrest width. The standard seats are well bolstered but the ability to tighten the seat around ones self during spirited driving and the ability to relax the seats and be conferrable on long journeys is valuable feature.

This M3 is the most desirable model BMW has produced. The engine is quite possible the best of the year and driving experience would put a smile on the toughest of critiques, while at the touch of a button it becomes docile enough to be enjoyed as a daily driver. BMW has succeeded in making a multi purpose racecar.

Check out what these others have to say about the M3:

Top Gear

Auto Car Magazine

Edmunds

More pictures:

Download BMW M3 E92 Wallpapers Here (1600X1200 Resolution)

Browse all of our BMW Model wallpapers Here