Potent Performance Promised By Supercharged Freelander by Callaway

Showcases For Callaway's Advanced Vehicle Engineering Expertise

LAS VEGAS, Oct. 30 -- 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.