'Freelander Supercharged-Performance by Callaway' Promises Potent Performance,
Showcases Callaway's Advanced Vehicle Engineering Expertise
LAS VEGAS, Oct. 30 /PRNewswire/ -- For the 2001 SEMA show, Callaway and
Land Rover have teamed up to debut the "Freelander Supercharged-Performance by
Callaway," an all-new concept that follows closely on the heels of the
Freelander's U.S. introduction. The vibrant Azul Blue concept vehicle
elegantly showcases how extraordinary street performance and legendary off-
road capability mesh seamlessly in one powerfully engineered package.
Sporting a Callaway Freelander badge, the concept defines Callaway's vehicle
development philosophy -- as well as the responsiveness, creativity and
precision performance engineering capabilities of the Callaway organization.
Developed in just over six weeks, the concept vehicle features a full
complement of Callaway enhancements, from extensive engine, chassis and
suspension modifications to a beautifully executed exterior design treatment.
True to Callaway's engineering approach, the company's entire team of seasoned
vehicle specialists -- spanning two continents, three countries, and four
separate facilities -- contributed to the project. The result is a concept
vehicle that delivers the superior performance and distinctive design that
today's driving enthusiast demands, without sacrificing the Freelander's
essential character.
Supercharged, Super Smooth, Super Efficient -- This Powerplant Compromises
Nothing
Callaway's engine development group welcomed the challenge of infusing the
Freelander's standard 174-bhp 2.5L naturally aspirated V6 with a significantly
higher level of power. The result is a custom-engineered 250-bhp supercharged
powerplant, featuring 260 lb.-ft torque at 4000 rpm and a broad, user-friendly
powerband. Unofficial performance estimates point to 0-60 mph speeds in the
7.7-second range, with a standing-start quarter mile potential of 15.9 seconds
at 89 mph. The concept also delivers impressive 0.93g lateral acceleration.
"Our engineering objective was to combine superior driveability with the
flattest possible torque curve for the broadest range of high performance --
all without sacrificing fuel economy," explained Jim Jones, Callaway's engine
development manager. To achieve this "no compromises" objective, the Callaway
Advanced Technology team opted for the supercharged engine application.
Callaway engineers designed and fabricated an exclusive aluminum intake
manifold, featuring an optimized intake length that ensures strong, consistent
performance from idle through 6200 rpm. In addition, engineers developed an
exclusive liquid-cooled intercooler/heat exchanger system. The system
features a high-capacity electric pump for rapid water circulation and optimal
cooling efficiency. The front-mounted heat exchanger ensures that the
Freelander is as cool at idle or low revs as it is powering along the
Interstate. The Callaway team also designed an all-new throttle housing, CNC
machined from billet aluminum and featuring dual throttle ports and integral
idle air control construction. For a flawless finish, a special Callaway
carbon fiber engine cover wraps around the Supercharger, hinting at the
engine's remarkable performance.
Callaway also repositioned and modified the entire exhaust system to gain
equal power distribution to the twin exhaust pipes. The new performance
exhaust includes a stainless steel muffler design, as well as resonated
stainless steel exhaust tips. The exhaust outlet area is surrounded by a
distinctive dual-purpose billet heat shield. Designed to protect the rear
bumper from exhaust heat, the aluminum shield also serves as an aesthetic
"finale" by repeating the extruded fastener design elements found in the
concept's wheels.
Callaway Performance Includes Custom Chassis and Suspension Refinements
To channel all that added power in a civilized manner, Callaway applied
its engineering expertise to the Freelander's standard four-wheel independent
suspension. Modifications include a full complement of Callaway Sport Tuned
increased rate springs and revalved compression rebound dampers, as well as
several custom-engineered and machined components, such as a larger-diameter
anti-roll bar. The concept sits a full two inches lower than the standard
Freelander.
The added performance is matched by equally impressive braking power.
Callaway adapted the race car bred Callaway C12's superb brake system for the
Freelander concept. The grooved and ventilated front (332 x 32) and rear
(304 x 25) rotors are enormous, and well suited to performance driving
requirements. A custom aluminum rotor hat, anodized in Callaway blue to match
the concept's brilliant Azul blue body color tops off each rotor. Massive
four-piston brake calipers, also adapted from Callaway racing technology, are
capable of comfortably managing even the most spirited on- or off-road driving
behavior. To direct additional airflow to the concept's brakes, Callaway also
designed and fabricated exclusive carbon fiber brake ducts, integrated in the
front bumper.
High-performance 255/45/R18Z Pirelli P-Zero tires are mounted on
distinctive 18-inch, two-piece lightweight alloy wheels. The wheels,
featuring custom wheel hub pilots, were especially selected for this
application by Callaway's Germany-based competition affiliate, Callaway
Competition. The spoke design allows a clear view of the Callaway-branded
brake calipers. In addition, each wheel integrates a special Callaway wheel
cap.
Powerful Exterior Stance Sets Stage for Freelander's Star Performer Role
Montreal-based designer Paul Deutschman's artistic sensibilities are
fueled by an engineering background, a unique combination of talents that
results in vehicle designs that seem to move -- even when standing still.
Deutschman has collaborated with Callaway on several previous projects,
including the company's own Callaway C7 and the C12 Speedster. For the SEMA
concept, Deutschman had a clear design target, namely to interpret Callaway's
performance vision into an equally compelling exterior design.
The success of Deutschman's work is in evidence front to rear. A unique
front bumper integrates an aerodynamic splitter, a horizontal extruding lip
that provides stabilizing downforce -- for when the going gets fast. The
splitter is complemented by a metallic silver skid plate -- for when the going
gets deep and tough. Also designed into the front bumper are Callaway
Competition crafted carbon fiber brake ducts.
Moving toward the rear, the design elements continue to point to the
concept's performance heritage. Rocker panels provide aerodynamic skirting
that further enhances vehicle stability at high speeds. Styled to suggest a
metallic extruded beam, each rocker sports dual-purpose body colored end caps.
True to the vehicle's dual nature, both on- and off-road enthusiasts needs are
met. When wheel flaps are mounted on the rear of the wheel openings, they
serve as mud guards. When mounted at the front of the openings, they serve as
air deflectors, forcing the air around the tire for less drag at high speeds.
The rear of the Callaway Freelander sports an "air diffuser" lip in the
lower bumper area. The final visual focal point is the distinctive aluminum
exhaust heat shield that integrates exposed fasteners -- a styling element
that links directly to the wheel design.
Callaway and OEM Partners: A Shared Passion for Delighting Performance
Enthusiasts
Callaway has been synonymous with powerfully engineered high-performance
cars and products for over 25 years. Founded in 1976 by Reeves Callaway, the
company has put its distinctive signature on some of the world's most
exclusive brands, including the highest-performance Range Rover ever built,
the 1999 Range Rover 4.6 HSE Callaway. With a company heritage that is firmly
rooted in racing, the Callaway philosophy of vehicle development embraces
three core attributes: potent performance, sophisticated driveability and
craftsman-quality reliability. These attributes are the catalyst for every
Callaway product, from the company's own line of Le Mans racers and super
sports cars to the high-output engines, performance systems and complete
specialty cars Callaway develops for manufacturer partners.
Callaway has always specialized in unlocking the true performance
potential of every project its team takes on. This single-minded focus has
positioned the company as a valued OEM partner in the rapidly growing
specialty vehicle market segment. "Today's car buyers thirst for
personalization and exclusivity," says Reeves Callaway, founder and president
of Callaway Companies. "That's why limited edition brand extensions that
enhance, not compromise, a product's true character are an ideal addition to a
manufacturer's existing product portfolio."
About Callaway Companies
Callaway Companies' world-class engineering team blends master
craftsmanship with the latest automated technologies at the company's U.S.
headquarters in Old Lyme, CT. The 18,000-square-foot facility is home to
Callaway Companies' two core business units.
Callaway Cars helps manufacturers capture the exclusive high performance
enthusiast market through team-based development of limited edition, high-
performance automotive, motorcycle and marine products. This unit also
manufacturers the 440-bhp Callaway C12, and its GT racer sibling, the 480-hp
Callaway C12R.
Callaway Advanced Technology (CAT) supports OEM engineering needs by
delivering a full range of rapid-response, efficient contract engineering
services, with special focus on high-performance parts and systems. CAT
offers the latest in computer-aided design applications, in-house machining,
craftsman-quality assembly and complete dynamometer and validation services.
CAT's in-house team of engineers have access to the latest technologies and
equipment, including such leading software solutions as PTC's PRO/Engineer(R).
Callaway maintains its focus on racing activities through its Leingarten,
Germany-based affiliate, Callaway Competition GmbH. Located just a few miles
from Stuttgart, Germany, the subsidiary builds world-class Sports GT
competition cars, including the Callaway C12R. Callaway Competition features
the latest in advanced composite structure design, fabrication and molding,
and offers complete in-house construction of roll cages and components.
Callaway Competition also offers complete motor sports preparation and set-up
services, along with a heritage of successfully competing in many of the
world's greatest races, including the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans.
SOURCE Callaway Companies
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Related links:
http://www.callawaycars.com
CONTACT:
Elke Martin of BrandwarePR, +1-973-283-4609,
or mobile, +1-973-615-5424, or emartin@brandwaregroup.com , for
Callaway Companies
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