High Performance People at Park Place Volvo Dallas-April 2017

Park Place Dealership’s commitment to provide client service excellence is not just a “catch phrase”…it is a pledge to deliver extraordinary ownership experiences to each and everyone one of our clients. To consistently uphold a standard as high as ours is no easy task- but, Park Place is proud to have a team full of high performance people who go above and beyond to provide our clients with an authentic and unmatched client experience- 100% of the time.

Germaine Ambres, New Car Sales Director, is our High Performance Member of Month for Park Volvo- because of his commitment to ensuring his team delivers a unique high performance ownership experience to all clients.

Germaine is a native Texan, born in Houston to loving, hard working parents from the rich-in-culture southern Louisiana. Over 10 years ago, he moved to Dallas in search of new opportunity with his wife.

“Typically Houstonians don’t like Dallas, but North Texas felt like home.”

He was highly encouraged by clients and colleagues to join the Park Place team and this month, April 2017, marks his 10 year anniversary at Park Place Dealerships. Initially, Germaine accepted a position as a Sales Consultant but later filled other roles such as Finance Manager, Business Manager, and now currently serves Park Place Volvo as the New Car Sales Director.

He employs the Platinum rule when helping clients through the purchasing process- treating people the way they wish to be treated. An integral part of his approach is to remember his client’s names- it’s not uncommon for Germaine to remember a client’s name from many years later.

“Everyone loves to be remembered. Creating the “Cheers” experience is priceless.”

When Germaine is not at Park Place Volvo, he enjoys landscaping to defend his ‘yard of the month’ status and spending time with his lovely wife. He can also be found serving in various areas of his church, including deacon and his passion, marriage ministry. His deeply rooted values are a result of the “village” of men and women, and his amazing family, who poured into him.

Germaine Ambres of Park Place Volvo lives out the culture of Park Place to the highest degree- providing clients with nothing less than exceptional experiences. He believes that what you give out will come back to you- a belief reinforced by a go-to mantra “Goodness and mercy will follow me all my days.”

So why is Park Place, Germaine’s Place?

“Every time there is an opportunity to serve a client, it is also an opportunity to impact the person in positive way for a lifetime.”

If you’re keen on a new Volvo, be sure to stop by Park Place Volvo and meet with Germaine, and his high performance team, for a memorable ownership experience!

April 17, 2017April 17, 2017

Masarati GT1 Day Experience

Maserati Dallas Invites those who appreciate driving experiences that thrill body, soul, and above all the heart to experience the Master Maserati Driving Courses. Feel the adrenaline rush that comes from being in control of a Maserati on the racetrack. The Master GT1 Day program is a limited series available by invitation only. In addition to on-track and classroom instruction, the program includes meals and world-class overnight hotel accommodations at PGA National Resort & Spa.

Master Maserati GT 1 Day Details

Driving participants cost $2,800 per person including premium accommodations, arrival day reception/dinner, meals, classroom and on track instruction, plus transportation. Non-driving companions cost $300 per person which includes shared lodging and program meals with registered participant, and a spa package at the host resort.

The Trident Experience Details

Invitation only 2 hour opportunity to experience the entire Maserati line-up in a dynamic, closed course course setting. The cost is $150 per person (minimum age of 25)

April 11, 2017November 1, 2019

Designed in Sweden and built in Italy – the Volvo 262C turns 40

Forty years ago, Volvo turned perceptions of what its brand stood for upside down. The Volvo 262 Coupé left no one unmoved and sold significantly better than expected, despite costing more than twice as much as the basic model in the 200 series.

The Volvo 264 was presented in the autumn of 1974, and two years later it was time for Volvo’s first six-cylinder estate: the 265. But that was far from the end of it – at the Geneva Motor Show in March 1977, perhaps the most unexpected model version saw the light of day: a two-door coupé with heavily slanting windscreen pillars and the roof lowered by 60 mm. To get the car to be perceived as sleeker, the rear spare wheel pods had been removed – the remainder of the body was identical.

What really made the 262C into what it was could be found in the passenger compartment. This offered an extravagance of leather and hardwood. The seats, headrests, door sides – even the curve handles had been upholstered in leather.

When the Volvo 1800ES was discontinued in 1973, there was no natural successor to the role of top range sports model. Volvo’s CEO Pehr G Gyllenhammar saw this as a problem. It was especially important that there was a model of this kind in Volvo’s biggest export market in the USA and a luxury coupé seemed more right at the time than another sports car.

Volvo’s chief designer Jan Wilsgaard did sketches for the shapes of the prestige car, but no clay model was ever built. Instead, he used a Volvo 164 that had been used to test new interiors. It was taken to the Italian designer Sergio Coggiola’s company in the Italian city of Turin, where the four-door body was rebuilt into a two-door body with a lower roof. The roof was clad with vinyl and the wide C-pillar adorned with three crowns – Sweden’s heraldic national symbol. The three crowns were replaced with one larger one on the production car, which is one of the very few differences between it and the prototype – except the obvious one that it was based on a 164.

The engine in the 262C was initially a 2.7 litre, 140 hp V6. It was shared with all the other body versions in the 260 series and had been developed together with Peugeot and Renault. Manufacturing took place in Douvrin in France under the auspices of the Société Franco-Suédoise de Moteurs-PRV company. Volvo’s engine designation was B27E and thanks to engine blocks and cylinder heads made from aluminium, it weighed less than 150 kg.

Such a niche product, built in small numbers, didn’t fit into the Volvo plant in Gothenburg. Instead, final assembly took place at the Italian Carozzeria Bertone, who also built the 264TE limo. Kits were sent to Turin where the bodies were modified, painted and assembled into finished cars. A small badge on the lower part of the front fenders showed that Bertone had built the car.

For the first few years, the 262 was only available in silver metallic with a black vinyl roof. From 1979, it was also available in gold metallic without a vinyl roof. That year, all saloon models in the 200 series also received a new rear with a boot that went down at the rear edge. The tail lights were also new and went around the body corners. In 1980, black and light blue metallic and silver metallic with vinyl roof was phased out. In the USA, the model was sold under the name of the Volvo Coupé from 1980.

The model year that stands out the most was also its last. In 1981, the 200 series underwent a major update with new, more slender bumpers and a new headlight set up. The B27E became a B28E as the engine gained in terms of cylinder volume and had another 14 horsepower added to it. The new colour combination was a two-tone paint job in gold and nougat.

The aim was to manufacture 800 units per year, but expectations for demand had been set far too low. Apart from in 1977 when production started late in the year, and the final model year, production figures were more than double the forecast. When the final cars were sold in 1981, they were already considered to be collectibles. In total, 6,622 cars were built between 1977 and 1981.

It was only in 1985 that the successor to the 262C was presented, Volvo 780. The collaboration with Bertone continued, but the 780 was both designed and built in Italy.

Five things you should know about the Volvo 262C

1. The 262C was not the first two-door model in the 260 series. In 1976-77, 3,329 262 GLs were manufactured exclusively for the North American market. They had a standard two-door body like a 242, but with a V6 engine and the far more exclusive front from the 260 series.

2. The 262C is the only Volvo to be delivered from the factory with vinyl over the steel roof.

3. The unique prototype built by Coggiola is now part of the Volvo Museum collection in Gothenburg.

4. The independent firm Solaire built a cabriolet edition of the 262C on behalf of Volvo Cars of North America. Only five units were ever manufactured.

5. Volvo’s CEO Pehr G Gyllenhammar had a specially made 262C as his company car. It was painted red and its entire interior was also red – even the headrests! It did not feature the usual V6 engine, which was replaced by the four-cylinder B21ET turbo engine. The body frames and grill were in matte black, which heralded the high black grill that the GLT and Turbo would feature in 1984.

April 10, 2017April 19, 2017

High Performance People at Park Place Jaguar- April 2017

Brad Pyatt, Sales Experience Manager, is our High Performance Member of Month for Park Place Jaguar Plano– because of his commitment to excellence day in and day out- for the past 15 years!

Brad’s exceptional service stems from his long journey to Park Place. Deeming himself an Army Brat, Brad moved around quite a lot when he was young, specifically every 10 months until he was 11 years old. His client first mentality began developing at a young age, thanks to his Grandpa, his role model, who was an old school county dentist. He taught Brad key things like patience, understanding, that there is more to life than material gains, and most importantly how to love his wife.

“He [My Grandfather] and my Grandmother were married in 1946 after having known each other for less than 6 months. At the time of his death at 94, they were married for 68 years…what an example”

After graduating high school, he attended Texas Tech, in Lubbock, to pursue a degree in marketing and management. Opportunity came knocking after graduation, and he moved to Dallas, and eventually made his way to Park Place after reading an AD in the Sunday paper (that’s right, the newspaper). He officially joined the Park Place team in 2002, and he has been thriving in the every-changing atmosphere that accompanies automotive sales. He emphasizes why this role at Park Place is a perfect fit for him because, “In sales, every day is different and growing up as I did I don’t really care for the same old thing over and over again. How boring is that?”

Some additional fun Facts about Your Park Place Jaguar High Performance Member of the Month include:

Personal Mantras: “There’s no harm in not knowing the answer” & “Sometimes it’s OK if we don’t have a plan…we can wing it”
In his free time he takes his Jeep Wrangler on Jeep Jamboree and other off-roading trips and boating on Lake Hubbard

Taking his grandfather’s life lessons to heart, Brad says that he doesn’t do anything “crazy” to provide a unique experience to all of his Park Place clients, rather he just wants to keep his client’s at ease and make the experience an enjoyable one by keeping treating people right and keeping his clients laughing.

“I just treat people right, don’t sound like a “car salesman”, don’t use sales people jargon but most important…just have fun. I like to keep my clients laughing and make friends.”

So why has Park Place been Brad’s Place for the last 15 years?

Authenticity, genuine relationships, and great leadership: “Park Place is my family away from home. I spend more time here than anywhere else but it doesn’t feel like work. We have a great atmosphere at Jaguar that starts at the top with Cuzzo. He is a great guy. He’s fair, he’s reasonable, and he’s approachable. What more could you ask for in a leader?”

So if you’re looking for a unique experience driven by you that’s delivered by a high performance team of experts in excellence, give Brad Pyatt of Park Place Jaguar Plano a call- he’d be more than happy to make Park Place, Your Place.

April 3, 2017April 7, 2017

High-Performance Jaguar Service is Making The Leap To Grapevine

This summer, our Jaguar dealership will join Land Rover in a new state-of-the-art facility in Grapevine. Jaguar Land Rover DFW will be conveniently located and easy to access from wither TX-114 or TX-121. You’ll fine two of the premier automotive brands in the world with all the perks of leading-edge technology, along with the same award-winning level of excellence you’ve come to expect at our Plano location.

You can expect:

A convenient and easily accessible location just North of DFW Airport on TX-114
A single, dedicated sales consultant to handle all your purchasing needs
Certified service experts who know your name – and really know your car
A work-friendly client lounge, sumptuous amenities and complimentary luxury loaners
An all-luxury dealership group with 30 years of award-winning excellence

Look for more information on the official opening date of Jaguar Land Rover DFW soon and reserve your dream vehicle today!

April 3, 2017April 3, 2017

2018 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet Brings Open-Air Driving Pleasure

Mercedes-Benz is completing its E-Class family with the new E-Class Cabriolet. This open-top four-seater combines puristic, sensuous design with long-distance comfort for four occupants and the latest E- Class technology. This includes comprehensive Smartphone Integration and available Inductive Wireless Charging, a widescreen cockpit and the latest driver assistance systems. A powerful engine and comfortable suspension ensure a sporty and luxurious driving experience. The Cabriolet is available with AIRCAP® and AIRSCARF® neck-level heating system to enhance comfort when driving with the roof down. For the first time, E-Class the Cabriolet is also available with 4MATIC all-wheel drive.

The new Cabriolet is the newest member of Mercedes-Benz’s new E-Class family, which has been entirely renewed within the last year. At the same time, the Mercedes-Benz brand is continuing its tradition of high-caliber cabriolets with a classic fabric soft top. “The passion for extraordinary vehicles, which we share with our customers, is reflected in our new E-Class Cabriolet in a unique way. It is a car that lets people enjoy comfort and luxury in the open air,” says Britta Seeger, Member of the Board of Management at Daimler AG with responsibility for Mercedes-Benz Cars Marketing & Sales.

When the soft top is up, the E-Class Cabriolet has a silhouette similar to that of the E-Class Coupe and displays the same expressive proportions. The close ties between the two models are likewise apparent in the pure design with an emphasis on surfaces with clean lines and sensuous forms. The “hot and cool” design idiom represents both elegance and intelligence, and shapes the appearance of the Cabriolet, which nevertheless exudes a unique character – especially when the soft top is down.

A striking front section with a low-positioned diamond-block grille and centrally located star, LED headlamps (or optional LED Intelligent Light System), a drawn-out hood with power domes and fully retractable side windows underline the sportiness of the Cabriolet. The tautly-stretched soft top flows harmoniously into the muscular-looking rear. Its elongated, sensuously sculpted shoulders and two-piece, extremely slim LED taillamps emphasize the sporty character of the four-seater. In addition to this, the taillamps exude a glow reminiscent of that given off by a jet engine. As a new feature with the optional LED Intelligent Light Sysem, the taillamps also put on a special light show for the driver when they approach or leave the car.

Suspension that is 0.6-inches lower than that of the Sedan likewise emphasizes the luxuriously sporty character of the E-Class Cabriolet. The car thus demonstrates its sporty credentials even with the standard 18-inch wheels.

Premium-class fabric soft top

Available in dark brown, dark blue, red or black, the fully automatic acoustic soft top comes as standard. Its multi-layered structure with sophisticated insulation reduces wind and driving noise, which makes it easy for the occupants to hear each other talk, even when driving at higher speeds. The soft-top structure has an equally positive effect when it comes to climate comfort and makes the Cabriolet suitable for use all year round.

Derived from the S-Class Cabriolet, the soft top also meets high quality standards in terms of durability and operation. It can be fully opened and closed in 20 seconds when travelling at a speed of up to 30 mph. After opening, it folds down quietly and precisely and is stored in the soft-top compartment in the trunk. A retractable cover separates the soft top from the remaining trunk space. Thanks to the fully electrical control included in the available Cabriolet Comfort package, the driver does not have to stop to operate the trunk separator manually. The trunk capacity offers all the right ingredients for a high level of everyday practicality. The all-new 50:50 folding rear seat backrests create a through-loading feature in the interior – another advantage when it comes to everyday practicality.

Interior – sophisticated style and sporty luxury

The interior of the new E-Class Cabriolet has a clear basic form. The upper section of the dashboard appears to be hovering and rests against generously proportioned trim elements which flow sensuously into the front doors. The exceptionally high- quality materials and finish emphasize the car’s sporty, stylish character and exude outstandingly high-class appeal.

A 12.3-in COMAND® display is equipped as standard. A 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster is optionally available–a unique selling point in this segment–and is merged beneath a shared glass cover creating a widescreen that appears to be floating in thin air while simultaneously blending in smoothly between the upper and lower sections of the cockpit. The driver can choose from three different styles for the virtual instruments in the instrument cluster: Classic, Sport and Progressive.

The driver has multiple options for operating the instrument cluster, multimedia system and other functions: Touch Control Buttons in the steering wheel, a touchpad that recognizes handwriting and the controller in the center console, voice control and direct-access buttons for controlling functions such as the air conditioning and activation and deactivation of certain driver assistance systems.

Distinctly sporty highlights include air outlets in Silver Shadow with a shape inspired by turbine engines.

The luxurious seats for all four occupants have a sportily sculpted individual-seat character. The sport seats feature sturdy side bolsters, organically integrated head restraints and available AIRSCARF® neck-level heating. Standard-fit automatic belt presenters for the front seats help the occupants to fasten their seat belts. The rear seats now provide a through-loading feature, further enhancing the car’s suitability for all-year-round use and its claim to be a fully-fledged four-seater.

High-grade materials and contemporary color landscapes come together to create a sporty, contemporary luxury. The attractive appointments in Yacht Blue in combination with Macchiato Beige lend the Cabriolet a cool, exclusive yachting look. Leather upholstery, available in four different colors, is equipped as standard, while optionally available Nappa leather comes in three different colors. There are seven different trim options to choose from, including two Natural Grain wood trims.

The interior lighting makes exclusive use of durable, energy-saving LED technology. The same applies to the enhanced ambient lighting with 64 colors and a special feature in the shape of a rear light in the roof liner of the Cabriolet soft-top.

Summer heat a constant companion

Customers opting for a cabriolet like to drive with the top down as often as possible. Maximum open-air comfort is possible in the E-Class Cabriolet thanks to the available AIRCAP® and the AIRSCARF® neck-level heating, which make the fresh air much more enjoyable even at low outside temperatures. The AIRCAP system was developed specifically for Mercedes-Benz cabriolets and consists of an electric wind deflector module inconspicuously integrated into the roof frame and an electric wind blocker behind the rear seats. At the press of a button, this system reduces the interior turbulence for the rear passengers, too. The combination of AIRCAP and AIRSCARF neck-level heating for the driver and front passenger allows enjoyment of open-air driving by circulating warm air around the neck area when temperatures are low outside.

Larger and more luxurious

Compared with its predecessor, the new E-Class Cabriolet has grown in length, width and wheelbase: with a vehicle length of 190-in, a width of 73.2-in and a height of 56.2-in, the new E-Class Cabriolet is by far the larger model. The principal beneficiary of the wider track, with 63.3-in at the front and 63.5-in at the rear, is the driving dynamics. Its considerably larger footprint benefits passengers in the rear in particular. On each of the four high-quality seats – which all feel like individual seats in their own right – the driver and all passengers can all enjoy true comfort even on long journeys.

Powertrain

With a 3.0L V6 biturbo engine, the new E-Class Cabriolet will be available for the first time as a 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive vehicle. Equipped as standard with a 9G-TRONIC nine-speed automatic transmission, the new Cabriolet allows for faster gearshifts and lower engine speeds.

Suspension: sporty, agile and comfortable

The suspension on the new E-Class Cabriolet is designed to offer agile driving pleasure as well as a highly comfortable ride. A sporty, lowered suspension with adjustable damping is available as a stand-alone option. With this suspension, the driver can modify the vehicle’s damping characteristics using the switch for the DYNAMIC SELECT system. There is a wide range of adjustment options available between the Eco, Sport and Sport+ modes, as well as an Individual mode.

AIR BODY CONTROL multi-chamber air suspension

The Cabriolet also has the option of AIR BODY CONTROL multi-chamber air suspension, as already seen on the E-Class Sedan and Wagon. Thanks to three chambers of different size in the spring struts of the rear axle and two in the spring struts of the front axle, the driver can control the firmness of the suspension in three stages. In this way, the occupants enjoy soft basic suspension, along with the secure feeling of good handling stability at higher speeds.

The multi-chamber air suspension is augmented by an electronically controlled adaptive damping system. It adjusts the damping at each individual wheel automatically to suit the current driving situation and condition of the road – such as in the case of evasive maneuvers or on rough roads. The system therefore delivers good ride comfort along with excellent driving dynamics.

Using the DYNAMIC SELECT switch, the driver can also select different suspension characteristics in combination with the AIR BODY CONTROL system: Comfort, Eco, Sport, Sport+ and Individual.

DYNAMIC SELECT – choose your own driving characteristics

The DYNAMIC SELECT system not only makes it possible to select the suspension characteristics in combination with AIR BODY CONTROL, it also enables the driver to influence other vehicle settings – such as the throttle response, ECO Start/Stop function, shift points of the automatic transmission and more. Depending on the equipment level, DYNAMIC SELECT provides the following transmission modes: Comfort, Eco, Sport, Sport+ and Individual. “Individual” allows the driver to configure their own preferred transmission settings.

Light and safe body shell

In a cabriolet, the lack of a roof often results in reduced body rigidity. Mercedes engineers employed specific measures to counteract this during development. For instance, they made the body shell structures at the front end and on the floor exceptionally stiff, allowing a high level of driving dynamics.

Intelligent lightweight construction in aluminum hybrid design – a feature of the Coupe – has been retained. Most of the body shell components are made of die- cast aluminum and sheet steel. The front fenders, hood and trunk lid are made of sheet aluminum. The Cabriolet not only meets all current national and international crash requirements, but also the more stringent internal Mercedes-Benz safety standards.

Safe protection

In the event of an accident, the high structural safety of the body and the extensive array of restraint systems offer optimum protection. These include:

Pyrotechnic belt tensioners and belt force limiters on all front and rear seats
PRE-SAFE® reversible belt tensioner on the front seats
Front airbags for driver and passenger
A knee bag on the driver’s side
Thorax/pelvis bags for driver and front passenger Side bags in the rear

The roll-over protection system has been developed specifically for the Cabriolet. It consists of two cartridges that are fully retracted behind the rear seats and therefore invisible. If a roll-over is imminent, these cartridges are pyrotechnically fired, whereupon they shoot out to provide a survival space together with the A- pillar.

All E-Class innovations on-board

As a member of the current E-Class family, the new Cabriolet offers all the familiar features from the E-Class Sedan, Wagon and Coupe. Active Brake Assist comes as standard and is able to warn the driver of an imminent collision, provide optimum support with emergency braking and, if necessary, can also assist in applying the

brakes. In addition to slower-moving, stopping or stationary vehicles, it can also detect pedestrians crossing in the danger zone ahead of the vehicle.

MAGIC VISION CONTROL with Cabriolet function

MAGIC VISION CONTROL® – the intelligent and highly efficient wash/wipe system for the windscreen – is integrated into both sides of the wiper blade and supplies cleaning fluid to a point just in front of the wiper blade lip. It allows ideal cleaning of the windscreen without the familiar splash of water that can briefly disrupt the driver’s field of view. Furthermore, when the soft top is down, the Cabriolet’s electronic control system reduces the amount of water, supplying just the required amount of water, mainly on the downward stroke of the wiper arm. In this way, the windscreen can be conveniently cleaned at any speed and with the roof open – without any of the water spraying into the vehicle’s interior. The complete system, including the wiper blades, is heated when the outside temperature falls to prevent snow or ice from sticking in winter.

Individual highlights

The Cabriolet already comes with a high equipment specification as standard, augmented by a wide range of individualization options. The AMG Line is available to underline the sportiness of the Cabriolet with differences in the design of the bumpers, side skirts and larger wheels with AMG body styling. The dots in the diamond-block grille are chrome-plated, while the brake discs on the front axle are perforated.

Cabriolet suitable for use all year round

The E-Class Cabriolet boasts an exceptionally high level of everyday practicality. It is suitable for all seasons and all weather conditions thanks to the available AIRCAP® and the AIRSCARF® neck-level heating as well as a number of other features:

Acoustic soft top insulated to protect against heat and cold
Heat-reflecting leather in conjunction with leather appointments
Individually folding rear seat backrests with through-loading feature
Available 4MATIC all-wheel drive

Full Smartphone Integration

The standard COMAND® Navigation system heralds a new era in networking and digitalization. It enables effortless integration of the smartphone into the system by means of wireless charging for compatible mobile phones. It is possible to use Apple’s smartphone-based infotainment system CarPlay® as well as Google’s Android AutoTM.

mbrace® Concierge: personalized attention

A further comfort highlight is the mbrace® Concierge Service, which is available on all carlines for customers with mbrace® Connect and mbrace® Secure. For participating customers, the range of services includes a host of personalized assistance options: from making a restaurant reservation to obtaining tips about tourist routes, information on cultural and sporting events and bookings to sending navigation destinations directly to the vehicle.

Access is straightforward – registered mbrace® subscribers can call up the Concierge Service either via the iCall button in the vehicle or on the Mercedes me app. The personal assistant takes care of everything else.

March 29, 2017April 3, 2017

Jaguar Reveals F-TYPE 400 SPORT Available For One Model Year Only

Every F-TYPE stands out from the crowd, but the F-TYPE 400 SPORT Special Edition is truly unmistakable. Utilizing a 400ps (395hp) version of Jaguar’s 3.0 Liter Supercharged V6 engine, this model exclusive combination rockets drivers from 0-60mph in 4.9 seconds with strong, progressive power delivery, while engulfing them in unique styling cues that set this ride apart from any other.

Sharp styling in the F-TYPE 400 Sport includes premium leather performance seats, accented with distinctive Yellow or Cirrus stitching, while the steering wheel, console finisher, headrests, and treadplates carry the 400 SPORT motif. Exterior paint colors are limited to Yulong White, Indus Silver, and Santorini Black, creating a unique palate that further sets this special edition vehicle apart, while a Sport Design Pack and Dark Satin Grey finishing touches accent various points around the vehicle.

Adaptive Dynamics, 380 mm front ant 376mm rear brakes, and Configurable Dynamic Mode all come standard to amplify the driving experience to match this unique vehicle’s sophisticated style.

Learn more about the F-TYPE 400 SPORT Special Edition at Park Place Jaguar Plano.

March 29, 2017November 1, 2019

All-New Lexus LS 500h Makes Its World Premiere at the 2017 Geneva Motor Show

The 2018 Lexus LS 500h, the full hybrid version of Lexus’ new flagship sedan, was unveiled in March in Geneva.

The model, which follows the world premiere of the twin-turbo gas V6-powered LS 500 at the 2017 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit, is a further manifestation of how Lexus has reimagined the luxury sedan, presenting bold design, enhanced performance and a sophisticated appeal to capture the imagination of forward-thinking customers.

The car’s design successfully brings together the virtues of a long-wheelbase four-door sedan with a low, coupe-like profile, positioning the LS perfectly across the growing sedan and coupe segments.

The cabin has benefited from an equally new approach, focusing on “progressive comfort,” interpreting Japanese aesthetics and craftsmanship traditions in the context of an advanced, luxurious and innovative vehicle interior such as the unique door trim ornamentation. Notably, the LS 500 was honored at the NAIAS with the EyesOn Design Award for Design Excellence – Interior Design.

Conceived as the new global pinnacle of the Lexus brand, the LS goes beyond what the world expects from a luxury car. Chief Engineer Toshio Asahi explained: “Developing such a flagship model required a massive paradigm shift. Rather than being bound by the conventions that had defined luxury cars in the past, we aimed to create a car with innovative, emotional and sensual appeal that would draw customers’ eyes away from other luxury cars and provide entirely new values.”

The LS 500h is equipped with the new Lexus Multi Stage Hybrid System, which provides enhanced responsiveness and linear acceleration, particularly when accelerating from a full stop. The powertrain features a 3.5-liter V6 Dual VVT-i V6 gasoline engine and two electric motors, together delivering maximum system power of 354 hp.

The LS 500h is built on the new Lexus Global Architecture – Luxury (GA-L) platform, which is shared with the all-new LC. This platform ensures a low center of gravity and optimum weight distribution, contributing to the car’s essential stability and handling agility, which in turn deliver increased driver rewards. The fundamental high rigidity of the chassis allows the new multi-link suspension to be tuned to achieve enhanced handling performance and the supreme comfort for which the LS is renowned. The car’s dynamic performance also benefits from the coordination of braking, steering and stability systems through Lexus Dynamic Handling.

Advanced technologies are further used to deliver impressive safety performance. The LS 500h’s available Advanced Safety Package features the world’s first Intuitive Pedestrian Detection system with Active Steering within the lane.

Omotenashi, expressing the unique sense of Japanese hospitality, defines the LS 500h’s whisper-quiet and luxurious interior. Supreme comfort is provided by front and rear seats with multiple power adjustment, heating, cooling, and massage functions. There is also an optional rear seat arrangement that includes an extending leg ottoman and the most generous leg room of any LS generation. At 123 inches, the wheelbase of the new LS is in fact 1.3-inches longer than on the current long wheelbase LS 600h L.

Lexus Takumi craftsmanship also contributes to the special quality of the LS 500h’s cabin, in luxurious new trims, materials and detailing, including a new pleating treatment and Kiriko glasswork on the inner door panels.

IMAGINATIVE TECHNOLOGY

Full hybrid powertrain with 3.5-liter V6 Dual VVT-i gas engine
The LS 500h’s Lexus Multi Stage Hybrid System combines a 3.5-liter V6 Dual VVT-i gas engine with two electric motors, together delivering a total output of 354hp. The engine makes optimal use of Dual VVT-i (intelligent variable valve-timing), with timing precisely gauged in line with driving conditions, helping to secure high torque at all engine speeds. Measures to reduce friction losses and thus improve engine efficiency include the adoption of narrow, lightweight roller rocker arms and low-friction timing chains, while D-4S direct fuel injection helps create optimum combustion conditions, contributing to enhanced fuel economy.

Lexus Multi Stage Hybrid System
The new LS 500h is equipped with Lexus’ Multi Stage Hybrid System, a breakthrough technology that enriches the hybrid powertrain performance experience and is also seen on the all-new LC. The system adds a four-stage shifting device to the Lexus Hybrid Drive combination of a 3.5-liter V6 gas engine and two electric motors. The result is more direct response to driver inputs while maintaining the characteristic smoothness and efficiency for which Lexus hybrids are renowned.

In a conventional full hybrid vehicle, engine output is boosted by the electric motor via a reduction gear, but with the new Multi Stage Hybrid System the power from the V6 engine and the hybrid battery can be amplified by the four-stage shifting device, allowing much greater drive power to be generated when accelerating from stationary and achieving a 0-60 time of 5.4 seconds.

The design of the system places the multi-stage shift unit immediately behind the power split device, on an axis aligned with the engine crankshaft. Although the unit has four speeds, the D range has a simulated shift control pattern that delivers the feel of driving with a 10-speed gearbox. As vehicle speed rises, engine speed increases with a linear, direct and continuous acceleration feel, free from the “rubber band” effect witnessed in some continuously variable transmissions. In the 10th gear range, the CVT control allows for high-speed cruising at lower engine revs for quiet, smooth and fuel-efficient performance.

The transmission further benefits from an improved version of the artificial intelligence shift control found in conventional automatics. This enables intelligent, optimum gear selection to be made in line with driving conditions and driver inputs, for example when going up or downhill. By reading the vehicle’s acceleration, deceleration and lateral G trajectories, the system can adjust gear shifts to suit the driver’s style and behavior, without the driver having to select a different drive mode to get the kind of performance they want from the transmission.

Thanks to the Multi Stage Hybrid System’s design, the driver is able to take advantage of an M mode to select and hold gears manually, using paddle shifts mounted behind the steering wheel – a function not previously available on a Lexus hybrid. Thanks to the coordinated control of the Power Split Device and the gear shifting mechanism, the gear shift will start instantaneously with the computer receiving the signal from the paddle shift, giving an exceptionally quick response.

Lithium-ion hybrid battery
The LS 500h is fitted with a compact, lightweight, lithium-ion hybrid battery. It is 20 percent smaller than the nickel-metal hydride unit featured in the current Lexus LS 600h, yet has a higher power density. Using lithium-ion technology has also reduced the component’s weight, helping reduce the car’s overall mass, thus supporting overall fuel economy, emissions performance and handling balance.

It is the first Lexus hybrid battery to feature a satellite construction design, in which the cell voltage monitoring function has been made separate from the battery ECU. This allows for efficient use of what would otherwise be empty space inside the battery pack to house the wiring harness and battery cooling blower, thus reducing the unit’s overall dimensions. The cooling blower itself has been made more powerful and thinner in size.

LUXURY INTERIOR INSPIRED BY OMOTENASHI
Omotenashi, the Japanese concept of hospitality, is a common thread that has run through all LS models. In the context of a luxury automobile, it means taking care of the driver and passengers, anticipating their needs, attending to their comfort and protecting them from hazards.

Takumi Craftsmanship
The quality, precision and pride in perfection that define Lexus’ Takumi craftsmanship are richly evident in the luxury detailing in the new LS, as befits a flagship sedan. Lexus has produced a unique aesthetic for the new LS which can be witnessed in elements such as the interior lighting and an exceptional attention to detail in the finish and appearance of everything you see and feel.

Inspired by Japanese culture and traditions
Natural woodwork and the application of sophisticated sliced wood and laser cutting technologies have been used to produce new interior finish options, including Art Wood/Organic, Art Wood/Herringbone and Laser Cut Special. The grain pattern of Art Wood is achieved by combining different color woods and is an original Lexus design, created using Takumi craftsmanship skills. The LS’ new cross grain finish is larger with sharper contrasts between light and dark, creating a more vibrant effect. The new Laser Cut Special trim emphasizes the contrast between precise metal lines and natural wood.

Hand-pleated door trims were inspired by origami, the Japanese art of creating three-dimensional forms from a single piece of paper. The door panels were originally rendered in paper by a skilled fabric artisan. The finished three-dimensional pattern captures the Lexus “L” motif in its intricate and precise folds, conveying a different effect when seen in daylight or the cabin’s night-time illumination.

For the ornamentation panel, the aim was to express Lexus’ Time in Design philosophy. To achieve this, the team called on the skills of Kiriko artisan glassworkers who produced hand-carved designs that capture the contrast created by light and shadow. Through painstaking trial and error, a design was chosen that looks beautiful and sensual from any angle. Although fragile in appearance, the glass has been treated using reinforcement technology to ensure it is robust for use in a vehicle interior. The hand-carved design was reproduced using advanced glass production technology, which precisely scans and digitizes tens of thousands of facets. In the next step the glass ornamentation undergoes a series of treatments such as polishing and strengthening conducted by specialized Japanese Takumi craftsmen.

March 14, 2017

How it Werks at Park Place BodyWerks

Park Place BodyWerks is the #1 volume collision repair and paint & body shop facility in Texas with three locations in the DFW area. The success of the shop is intertwined with that of Park Place Dealership’s first Mercedes Dealership off Lemmon Avenue in Dallas, which was bought 30 years ago. Fast forward to 2017 and BodyWerks now has additional presences in Grapevine and Fort Worth.

From major accidents and incidental dings to hail damage, Park Place BodyWerks has any vehicle covered with first class service, thanks to the expert shop team and their dedicated leadership. Our teams understand the complicated process of getting an exceptional vehicle back to pre-damage condition and they are more than happy to guide all clients through the repair process to make it as seamless and stress free as possible.

Eric McKenzie, Director of Body Shop Operations, answered some frequently asked questions about BodyWerks and how our team can make your vehicle restoration a uniquely first class (and easy) experience.

Q: What’s the difference between a dealership service department and a BodyWerks repair shop?

A: Your dealership service department takes care of vehicle maintenance and warranty mechanical repairs for their new and pre-owned clients. BodyWerks handles insurance claims, collision, and storm damage repairs for all Park Place Clients.

Q: What are some examples of damages that are fixed by BodyWerks?

A: BodyWerks can perform all collision, paint and body, and structure repairs to most vehicles on the road. All three locations are manufacturer certified for all brands that are sold by Park Place, specializing in primarily luxury vehicle repairs.

Q: Who’s performing the repairs on my vehicle and are they certified?

A: Our manufacturer certified technicians work on the vehicles. All technicians are manufacturer trained and many have more advanced training for Park Place specific brands using the latest technologies and equipment available especially as it pertains to the more advanced materials.

Q: Will my insurance cover my damage?

A: Yes, insurance should cover most claims. The only thing our clients need to do is initiate the claim, then the experts at BodyWerks will handle and guide you through the rest of the process.

So why choose Park Place BodyWerks among other body shops in Texas? Park Place BodyWerks are one of the only few shops in the state that are certified to repair all the Park Place brands. The technicians are highly specialized and far more equipped to repair Park Place exclusive vehicles than an average shop that lacks access to manufacturer training and advanced technology to repair today’s luxury vehicles.

Another differentiating factor is that BodyWerks shops are not a Direct Repair Provider or Preferred shop for any insurance company. What does this mean? It means that repairs can be made to meet Park Place’s, and most importantly, your standards – not the insurance company’s. At Park Place BodyWerks, the client truly comes first- and our seasoned shop managers and technicians, will treat you like no other body repair facility in the Dallas Fort Worth Metroplex.

To make an appointment call any one of our three locations, or visit us online at www.parkplace.com/BodyWerks-About

March 14, 2017November 1, 2019

2018 Mercedes – AMG E63 S Sedan – E-Class Intelligence, Unbridled Power

The 2018 Mercedes-Benz AMG E63 S Sedan takes all the innovative technology of the 2017 E-Class and combines it with the pure force of Mercedes – AMG to create the most powerful E-Class of all time. The new E63 takes performance to the extreme with a 603 horsepower 4.0L V8 biturbo engine boasting a blistering 0-60 time of 3.3 seconds, and 627 lb-ft of torque.

The AMG cylinder deactivation system improves fuel economy as the AMG performance 4MATIC drive system turns power into precision alongside a re-engineered AMG sport suspension, providing unparalleled stability and impressive cornering speeds. AMG DYNAMIC SELECT offers four drive programs with variable torque distribution, giving you total personalized control over the vehicles performance.

Key Highlights

AMG 4.0L V8 biturbo engine
Two twin-scroll turbochargers
603 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque*, **
0-60 mph in 3.3 seconds; governed top speed of 186 mph**
AMG Cylinder Management cylinder deactivation system
AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT (Multi Clutch Technology) nine-speed sport transmission
AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive
AMG sport suspension based on AIR BODY CONTROL
AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive programs
Rear differential lock for optimal traction
Extended wheel arches for greater track width
New grill with chrome louvers, vertical black struts, and AMG lettering

Visit your nearest Park Place Motorcars Location for more information.