With the European launch of the Chevrolet Camaro just around the corner, General Motor's semi-official tuning partner across the pond, Irmscher, is gearing up for the presentation with the release of a limited production version of its i42 Camaro study, which was showcased at this year's Essen Motor Show.

For the creation of the i42 Camaro, Irmscher joined forces with Auto Magnus und Velocity Performance Parts. Based on the Camaro SS with the 6.2-liter V8, the i42 benefits from a bevy of upgrades, the most important being the addition of a supercharger and a new custom exhaust system, which boost output to 509-horsepower. The tune allows the Camaro i42 to complete the 0-100km/h (62 mph) sprint in about 4.0 seconds and reach a top speed of 275 km/h or 171 mph.

Irmscher also fitted the American muscle car with a sports brake system comprising of 380 mm front discs with 6 piston calipers and 355 mm rear discs with 4 piston calipers, plus an adjustable sports suspension. The car now rides on new 22-inch alloy wheels with a funky black and silver design. The package is rounded off with black racing stripes and matching "Since 68" logos.

Depending on the configuration, the Irmscher i42 Camaro can be had in Germany from €49,000, or about US$64,900.

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In support of the German Automobile Tuner Association’s “Tune it! Safe!” campaign, AC Schnitzer built the MINI E Police Look Concept, which is being showcased at the 2010 Essen Motor Show. The idea behind the campaign is to create a car that can satisfy tuning aficionados and also meet safety standards.

The BMW Group's MINI E is powered by an electric motor with 204 hp on tap and plenty of low-down torque (maximum is 220 Nm or 162 lb-ft). It completes the standard sprint from standstill to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 8.5 seconds and has a limited top speed of 152 km/h (95 mph).

AC Schnitzer’s comprehensive tuning package made it even better while the police livery is an interesting take on the “safety” theme.

Finished in the classic Polizei colors, the concept has the latest signaling system from Hella mounted on the roof and special wraps from Foliatec. Modified front and rear bumpers, plus lowered side skirts, improve the car's looks, while bonnet vents and a large roof spoiler complete the bodykit.

The tuner opted for new alloys, too. The 18-inch MI 2 wheels feature an 8-spoke design and are wrapped in high-performance Hankook Ventus S1 Evo tires. Stopping power is provided by an upgraded brake system, boasting 328mm 4-pot caliper (in front) ventilated disks. There is also a complete suspension kit.

Inside, the boys in blue are greeted by aluminum pedals, footrest and handbrake handle.

AC Schnitzer says that most of the tuning accessories shown on the concept model are either already available or will soon be offered for the production MINIs.

By Csaba Daradics

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Sharing the spotlight with myriads of modified production and concept cars at this year's edition of the Essen motor show in Germany, are the booth professionals, which are always strategically placed to draw the attention of the male crowd. Below you will find a photo collection of some of the ladies of this year's tuning show, which runs from November 27 to December 5. And for those of you wondering, the older tall blonde woman with the short hair and tight black outfit is none other than Dutch actress and TV persona, Brigitte Nielsen.

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For most people, the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG 'Gullwing' looks just fine in factory tune. But not for Brabus. The German tuning house chose this week's Essen Motor Show to present its "wide-body" take on the Gullwing model.

The aero package is called Widestar and it encompasses a front spoiler, a rear apron with a new diffuser, blistered rear wheel arches with air inlets and outlets, and a boot lid spoiler. Engineers also sculpted the rocker panels, optimizing airflow between axles, and added bigger air outlets for the front fenders.

All components are made from carbon fiber and have been tested in the firm's wind tunnel. Clients can choose between a matte or glossy clear-coated finish for the body parts. If that's not their thing, optionally, the company can paint them in the body's color or in a contrasting tone.

To complement the SLS' new look, the ride height was lowered by 30 mm and a new, height-adjustable suspension was developed in collaboration with Bilstein. The driver can adjust the suspension's height with the touch of a button to make the car sportier or more comfortable than the stock SLS. Stiffer sway bars are also on the [optional] menu.

There's no Brabus without a proper set of wheels and the Widestar SLS is no exception. The Germans offer custom tailored ultra-light 20- and 21-inch front and rear Monoblock F Platinum Edition forged wheels, wrapped around in 275/30 ZR20 and 295/25 ZR21 Yokohama rubber. The new rims are bigger and lighter reducing unsprung weight and, thus, improving handling, the tuner claims.

Under the bonnet you'll find the same 6.2-liter V8 engine, albeit fitted with a high-performance and lighter (-12 kg or -26 lbs.) titanium exhaust system with sound management, which increases power by 10 hp.

As for the interior, Brabus offers a plethora of custom options, ranging from carbon fiber inlays in any desired color to an ergonomically shaped steering wheel. Premium upholstery is also offered, made from the fine leather and Alcantara.

By Csaba Daradics