With rising gas prices and new fuel economy standards, automakers are finding their own ways to make vehicles more efficient. One common way is to enhance old engines or launch new ones.
There are a few ways that engines can be upgraded. One common approach is the downsizing in displacement and cylinders in exchange for turbocharging or supercharging. This often does achieve the better fuel economy that the engine was designed for, as well as the power of a larger engine. However, the power delivery of a naturally aspirated engine and a turbocharged engine vary drastically. Many turbocharged engines have turbo-lag or a delay between driver input and engine response. This is because some larger turbos take time to spool up before providing their forced induction. Turbochargers can be expensive too, and the customer is likely the one who has to pay for it.
The best modern engines are the new naturally aspirated ones. A naturally aspirated engine provides the direct response and the better power curve then a turbo does. In high performance automobiles, the most power is made at the higher rpms. While slightly impractical, this is very fun. In other cars, the power is more accessible while being more linear and responsive than a forced induction.
While offering a better driver experience, naturally aspirated engines can be efficient too. Many automakers have improved their "NA" engines rather than going forced induction. Automakers use technologies like direct injection, variable-valve timing, and cylinder deactivation. Most importantly though is that these features add horsepower and torque. In some cases, automakers can downsize displacement while maintaining similar power and getting better fuel efficiency. Porsche has done just that with their 991 Carrera base model, moving from a 3.6 liter 6 cylinder to a 3.4 liter while producing nearly identical power and raising efficiency. Mercedes with their new 3.5 liter V-6 maintained displacement, but made it more powerful by 34 horsepower, and more efficient. Technology has allowed manufacturers to provide engine enhancements without sacrificing performance.
Today, exclusivity is being taken to a whole new level. While only very few can afford to purchase a 6-figure car, many of those discerning individuals ask for an extremely custom product. Bespoke personalization lines are now becoming increasingly popular among premium manufacturers and consumers alike.
There is one primary reason why automakers like to offer personalization programs. Not surprisingly, automakers make a lot of money on these extra and exclusive items. Manufacturers can warrant charging a fortune on these special items as they are not mass produced, but instead personalized for the owner. The difference in production costs and the price the consumer pays is even larger than what is seen on the "standard" option list. This additional profit from customer options is even more important to brands with limited vehicle output.
Buyers love these personalization programs too. Customers want to have a car that is unique to them which fits their taste and lifestyle. For the ultra-premium brands, pretty much anything the customer desires can be done. It is not uncommon to get any color or combination of colors one, wants both exterior and interior. Many buyers are having their name engraved into the door sill plates or head rest. Some even are encrusting fixtures in carbon fiber, gold, or diamond. In some cases hardware has been added or changed. The possibilities are endless. And all of this comes right from the factory so it is seamlessly integrated.
Take rates for exclusive options has never been higher. For instance, over 90% of Rolls-Royce Phantom orders are through their bespoke program. It is not just the exotic automakers offering this, albeit others are to a lesser extent. Programs like BMW Individual and Porsche Exclusive offer a similar concept while providing the same benefits for both parties. For money, anything can be done!
