The service is currently being offered in San Francisco as a beta test. When a member rents an Audi, the concierge delivers it with a full tank, and retrieves the car when finished. Pick up and drop off hours are 7 am to 8 pm, but vehicles can be reserved 24/7 through the app. Renters can also receive their vehicles from an official Audi on Demand garage.

Only the R8 and S/RS models have a 200 mile limit, the others have one, giving customers the true freedom of a super luxury vehicle. While a special card key can be issued, it isn’t necessary for vehicle operation. The Audi on Demand app has special features which allow renters to access certain parts of the vehicles, such as door locks and ignition. An almost completely app-based service.

While other companies offer the option of renting a luxury vehicle, currently no other manufacturers or brands have gotten into the rental market. Audi on Demand is a market first, offering luxury vehicles straight from the maker. Costs will range from around $200 to $1300 a day, a reasonable price for luxury.

You can find the Audi on Demand app in the itunes market place. Check out the webpage for more details. For more on the story, head over to Business Insider. For more about Audi, check out our previous articles on the TTS Competition and the Q7. Would you rent an Audi? Would you use an app-based rental service? Have you ever? Tell us what you think in the comments section down below. Remember to rate, share, and subscribe to keep up to date on the latest in luxury. Like us on Facebook for even more!

Photo Credits: itunes.apple.com, blog.caranddriver.com, luxurydaily.com, autoguide.com, cartrade.com

On Friday, Porsche declared their intent to create an Apple Watch app, and get into the smartwatch game. Porsche wasn’t the only company to make a statement, though. BMW also disclosed a bit about their smartwatch strategy. In their statement, BMW revealed some detailed about the Apple Watch app. The app is engineered for the i3 and i8, BMW’s two plug-in electric vehicles, and was featured in Apple’s debut presentation.

With these three heavy hitters in the auto industry and luxury world jumping into smartwatch technology, its only a matter of time before other automakers join in. Hyundai, working with Blue Link, is expecting to have an app out soon. Ford motor company has one in the works too. Alan Hall, Ford Spokesman says,

“Nothing to share yet, but it’s some exciting stuff.”

Porsche had more to say about their Apple Watch app, claiming it would enable drivers the ability to control many of their vehicles functions remotely. The Porsche Car Connect app will let the user see if windows are rolled up, the sunroof is shut, the doors and trunk are closed, and if the vehicle is locked and secure. The watch app will also help guide the owner to their vehicle in a crowed lot via their wrist. If desired, the app will cause the horn and lights to flash when the wearer of the smartwatch is near. Porsche says,

“Integrating the Apple Watch adds a new level of individuality and comfort to communication between driver and vehicle.”

Owners of a BMW i3 city car, or i8 hybrid sports car, will take pleasure knowing their Apple Watch app is available for free in the iTunes store. This app is unique, as its functions are designed around an electric car. The app will alert the wearer when their vehicle is finished charging, and how much battery charge is left when not on the charger.

BMW’s app is slightly more sophisticated than Porsche’s in respect to navigation. It will also guide an owner back to their vehicle, but it does one better! After parking, the BMW app can guide the wearer to their final destination on foot. The owner can also adjust cabin temperature from their Apple Watch – great for a cool down or a warm up after walking.

More apps are sure to come, and we’re excited to see the integration of technology and luxury. For more on this story, head over to USA Today. You can get all the specifics from Porsche and BMW. What do you think of these smartwatch apps? Do you want an app for your vehicle? Do you have one? What about a smartwatch? Tell us what you think in the comments! Rate, share, and subscribe and you’ll never be out of the luxury loop.

BMW Apple Watch App

BMW App Guides

Preset the interior temperature

Porsche Apple Watch App

Porsche Car Connect

Photo Credits: usatoday.com, porsche.com, diariomotor.com, technewstoday.com

Owners of an Audi luxury vehicle will never have to miss a delivery again. Audi has chosen to team up with Amazon, the market leader for online ordering, and DHL, an express deliver and international shipping company. This triple threat of a team has come up with the solution to missed packages. Luca de Meo, Audi board member spoke on the program,

“With comprehensive connectivity, we are transforming the car into a service device and integrating it even more closely into the everyday lives of our customers. Audi Connect Easy Delivery helps save time and offers more convenience and flexibility, advantages that are increasingly important for the target group of a premium brand.”

Audis, parked at home or maybe at work, will receive the package via trunk if nobody is home to claim the prize. How? DHL carriers will be issued a temporary keyless authorization code, so they may open the trunk, leave the package, close it up, and be on their way. This method will save drivers time and the company money. Drivers won’t have to make a second trip for another attempt at delivery.

Will these codes work whenever? Not at all. The team has taken special precautions to keep this method secure. The code works only once, and is only active during a certain time period. After the trunk has been shut, the code expires and the Audi is locked and secure. Future plans include package pick up for Audi owners. They’ll be able to ship and receive all from the trunk of their car! The pilot program is said to launch next month in Munich, Germany.

For more information on this ultimate luxury delivery service, check out USA Today or WIRED. Head over to the Audi Media site for more specifics. What do you think of this new delivery method? Is it safe? Is it time saving? Do you drive an Audi? Does this make you want to? If you’re thinking of buying an Audi, the 2015 TTS Competition Edition would be a luxurious choice. Share your thoughts down in the comments section. Remember to rate, share, and subscribe for the latest in luxury.

Photo Credits: wired.com, geekwire.com, frenomotor.com, retailgazette.co.uk, fredzone.org, wot.motortrend.com

“Aston Martin Vulcan is, by its very nature, a rare and thrilling supercar. Designed and engineered to deliver a genuinely bespoke driving experience that draws on our rich heritage, this car tailors its power and handling to both the capabilities of the driver and the characteristics of the track.”

Aston Martin Racing stepped in to help design the Vulcan’s 7.0 liter, V-12 engine. Naturally-aspirated, this engine can produce over 800 horsepower! Since this speed-machine wasn’t built for street use, the Aston Martin team worked hard to engineer the best track racer in the world. A magnesium torque tube is connected to the engine, as well as a drive-shaft made of carbon fiber. Vulcan uses a push-rod suspension system. The anti-dive geometry was designed specifically for use with Multimatic’s Dynamic Suspension Spool Valve adjustable dampers. These features work well with the variable traction control. The driver can also adjust the anti-lock break system for total vehicle control. Mix in an Xtrac six-speed gearbox, and you have a contender for top racer.

This sleek sports car’s monocoque body is composed of carbon fiber and has an extreme, futuristic design. Aside from the front and rear anti-roll bars, the body was designed with luxury and speed in mind. The aerodynamic figure is bold and cutting edge, with indulgent features like the spoiler and large windows. Holding all this glory up are Michelin brand racing tires, built for the wear and tear of the track. Aston Martin added in some Brembo racing calipers with carbon-ceramic discs for superior braking abilities. With all this in mind, the vehicle still meets all FIA safety standards, so race on! 

“A sports car for true sports car lovers, I believe the Aston Martin Vulcan – and the unique ownership programme that sits behind it – sets a whole new standard in the ultra-high luxury supercar class.” – Dr. Andy Palmer, CEO Aston Martin

The Vulcan will truly be an exclusive luxury sports car. Only 24 will be built and sold, with a price range of over $2 million. At that price though, you’ll be able to fully and truly customize your ride. All color and trim options are at the owner’s discretion. New owners will also have the chance to participate in a track driving program. The extensive training program will help owners hone their racing skills. Darren Turner, of Aston Martin Racing, along with other experienced racers, will help refine driver technique. Participants will also be put through a driving course and other training events.

Drooling yet? Scroll for some seriously striking photos to drool some more. Head over to the Aston Martin site for more information about this high-speed dream. You can review the full press release, or check out Mike Duff’s review from Car and Driver. What do you think of the Aston Martin Vulcan? Are you excited by the new design? Ever drive a sports car on a track? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments section!

Photo Credits: astonmartin.com/vulcan, autocar.co.uk, digitaltrends.com, theverge.com, motortrends.com

Though this fourth-generation vehicle has gotten a sophisticated update, the new design is still completely recognizable. After a legacy of fifteen distinctive years, this year’s luxury SUV will surely set the new standard for high-tech, hand-tailored craftsmanship. Cadillac has a bright future ahead of them with the release of the elegant 2015 Escalade.

One of the big differences is in the headlamp design. Cadillac has upgraded to some futuristic light features; the full-LED lamps are high-tech and bold, with a vertical display. Total Internal Reflection LEDs are for using the high-beam function, the first in the industry on the market. It is made up of four crystal lenses and LEDS stacked vertically, while the low-beam function uses 5 LEDs and crystal lenses. The headlamp bezel is branded with the Cadillac logo.

The rear end is just as well lit and high-tech. The taillamps are comprised of tall and thin LEDs that stretch all the way to the top of the vehicle. They’re also embellished with the iconic brand symbol that illuminates the night. Those opting for extra luxury should choose the Premium Collection, featuring door handles illuminated by LED. Another edition variation includes the ESV, extended-length edition. It comes with a longer wheelbase and about 20 extra inches in length. This gives passengers in the third row the most amount of space, and adds almost 60% cargo space behind the third row, compared to the Escalade Standard.

2015 Escalade comes fully loaded with a new EcoTec 3 engine. This 2.6L V8 engine passes its predecessors in power and efficiency. This new component is matched only by the transmission. The Hydra-Matic 8L90 transmission is an eight-speed, automatic beauty, and is, of course, enhanced with TapShift control. Plus, the Magnetic Ride Control (MRC) that was once only available in Tour and Sport models, is now a standard feature. The MRC adds to precision and control to the driving performance.

The new Escalade also boasts a smoother ride with it’s updated chassis and suspension system. The frame is a full-box and composed of over 75% high-strength steel, making for a durable and solid base. Cadillac has been able to reduce vehicle vibrations by adding shear-style body mounts. They’ve also added a five-link/coil-spring rear suspension and a coil-over-shock front suspension, as well.

Escalade stands strong, especially with the improved, wider, rear track. Standard models come with 20” wheels, but 22” onces are also an option. New to the 2015 Escalade is a 9.5” rear axle and an automatic locking rear differential. This SUV more fuel efficient than previous models too, thanks to the electric variable-assist power steering system. It does this by tailoring steering assist to the vehicle’s current speed. Along with electric variable-assist, this model will feature StabiliTrak (electronic stability control), auto grade braking, and hill start assist. The brake system has also been revamped. Cadillac has incorporated four-wheel-disc brakes with Duralife rotors, as well as re-engineered pedal operations, for a double the life and better braking performance.

The inside is where the true luxury shines. The cabin is spacious, completely technically integrated, and sophisticated; truly a fine piece of craftsmanship. The dash is made up of a gorgeous, hi-res, 12.3” digital driver display, powered by Cadillac’s genius CUE infotainment system. This console is reconfigurable, as is the additional display. The second display is full-color, and shows other crucial data for the driver, like system information, navigation systems, Bluetooth, and audio details. It is adjusted through controls on the steering wheel.

The furnishings are cushy and luxurious. Real wood, premium materials, and suede accents take the traveler to a new place, without ever leaving the driveway. The lighting is ambient, accentuating the elegance of the interior. The seats have been remodeled too. They’ve gone with a more sculpted look, and made them way comfier. The seats have been designed with dual-firmness foam that will retain it’s shape and keep you comfy, even on extra-long trips. Driver and front passenger seats are equipped with heating and cooling functions. The front row doesn’t get all the luxury! The second row has heated bucket seats, and the third row can recline like everyone else. If you prefer a bench in the second seat, it is available with outboard heating and reclining functions as well.

As usual, this Cadillac 2015 Escalade is quality made, and a deluxe addition to the American automotive industry. You can get the full specs over at Green Bay Press Gazette. Visit the Cadillac website for all the information on the 2015 Escalade. You can also follow the company on their various social media accounts. Are you a fan of Escalade or the Cadillac brand? Have you ever driven one? Share your thoughts in the comments section.

Photo Credits: cadillac.com

Aston Martin has a long line of styles and accessories in their Lifestyle collection. They’ve previously collaborated with many top names, including Audiomoda, Parkerson, Grant MacDonald, FPM, and Jaeger-LeCoultre. Adding the luxury eyewear company Marma to the mix is a smart choice. Marma is an eyepiece genius, incorporating beautiful Italian designs with high-tech lenses. They know, like Aston Martin, how to meet the luxury consumer’s tremendous standards. Katia Bassi, Aston Martin brands director, had to say,

“Marma luxury eyewear is a perfect complement to our luxury sports cars and both share the same attributes of superb style and excellent performance.”

The 36 piece collection is comprised of 6 frame options. Each frame comes in 6 different colors. Only the highest quality materials are used in the manufacturing process, and each pair is handcrafted by expert Italian craftsmen in the traditional fashion. High-tech lenses, timeless designs, and stunning colors are combined to make a pair of Marmas. You can check out all the options online, but they are only available for purchase in store. Senior account executive Tina Masciadrelli of The O Group believes this match has some positive potential,

“Aston Martin and Marma sunglasses are two brands that align on values of timeless design, unrivaled craftsmanship and cutting edge technology.”

While you’re checking out the full Aston Martin collection on Marma’s website, you can also look at their other lines, read their story, or find a store near you. Luxury Daily and Auto Evolution have the full scoop. Check out what Aston Martin is currently working on at their site. What do you think of the new collection? What’s your favorite frame style? Tell us your thoughts in the comments down below. Like the article, rate and share!

Photo Credits: marma.co.uk, luxurydaily.com

Audi hasn’t changed much in respect to design – they know when they’re on to something. The 2015 Q3’s engines have been updated, powered by the roaring 2.0 liter TFSI engine. Audi, the first manufacturer in the world to build a turbocharged direct injection engine, hasn’t stopped improving since they first broke from tradition. The Audi TSFI uses forced induction supercharging, also known as turbocharging, along with direct injection. This creates a responsive, more efficient vehicle with superior power output. You can feel the difference in the powerful thrust and feel good about lower emissions.

The TSFI engine can’t take all the credit for the Q3’s high performance and adroit maneuverability, the S-tronic Transmission is also essential. The seven-speed, dual-clutch transmission is truly an engineering marvel. S-tronic blends the advantages of an automatic with the classic characteristics of a manual. Gear changes within the gearbox are executed quickly and effortlessly. Easily switch from fully automatic to manual mode, and back again, by the gearshift paddles located on the steering wheel. The S-tronic’s dual clutch is the technical wizard behind it all. Each clutch is always working; one is set for odd-numbered gears and reverse, while the other engages the evens. When in motion, one gear is in operation while the other is in a pre-selection mode, ready to shift power in a moments notice. This makes for nearly seamless shifting. S-tronic shifts in less than 0.2 seconds with no break in power. Combined, the engine and transmission give the driver unmatched responsiveness and a luxury force to be reckoned with.

No more will the Q3 be typecast as a city street courier, though it will always reign supreme of metropolitan motor vehicles. The all-wheel drive system is cleverly designed, welcoming drivers to back roads and unbeaten paths, as well as reducing slippage in inclement weather and hazardous conditions. Audi has also implemented a hill descent control function making for safer travels down the slopes. The Q3 is a reasonably high-rider, with clearance enough for most obstacles, and has a remarkably narrow turning radius. Audi’s little SUV is tremendous – as luxurious as it is sophisticated.

Inside, the Q3 has discarded all the outmoded technology from previous models and “sibling” vehicles, opting for fresh and functional features like climate control, reverse camera, side assist, and parking senors on both front and rear ends of the car. Audi designed the interior with a minimalistic, but elegant, theme. The panels are coherent and classy, harmonizing well with the beautiful trimmings and dash. Both surfaces are adorned with soft-touch materials on contact points. Leather seats are roomy and luxurious, and the rear seat is incredibly spacious. MMI navigation with voice control system comes with 2015 Q3, and it is fully integrated with a dynamic BOSE sound system.

There are plenty of extra special features, packages, and add-ons available for the Audi 2015 Q3. The Premium Plus starts at $32,500 and comes with a panoramic sunroof and Xenon plus headlights, while the Prestige offers heated mirrors and driver’s seat as well as a dual moonroof for only $36,400. Head over to the Q3 Crossover page to find out more, or check out Audi USA to see all the latest models. Sam Hall of Drive, Australia, had the chance to test out the Q3 in all it’s glory. For more photos, specs, and Sam’s review check out the article. What’s your favorite feature of the Q3? Are you an SUV fan? Let us know what you think down below. Remember to rate, like, and share!

Photo Credits: autos.jdpower.com, caranddriver.com, drive.com.au, inautonews.com, autoblog.com

Producers of the film haven’t revealed what exciting new gadgets the Bond car will feature, but previous goodies include ejector seats, defibrillators, and rocket launchers. Aston Martin has revealed they are working hand in hand with director Sam Mendes to create the ultimate spy car. Pictures of the vehicle have been released, but even the interior details about the Aston Martin DB10 are being kept hush hush. The reason most likely being is this is a design of a future model for the company; they can’t risk any secrets being leaked to competitors. Aston Martin isn’t saying a word about the car, and they won’t be selling it either. At least, not until after the filming is finished and it’s been fully driven by Mr. Bond. It’s been 50 years since Bond last drove an Aston Martin. You might remember the ultra-sleek DB5 with Sean Connery behind the wheel from Goldfinger.

Aston Martin DB10

Other scenes yet to be shot include a fantastic plane jump in which Bond will parachute onto the Ponte Sisto, a bridge over the Tiber from the 17^th century. Not everything has been going smoothly for producers or the crew, as many obstacles stand in the way. An epic chase in the luxury cars around Rome’s baroque fountains had to be cut from the movie due to complaints from officials of the city’s cultural heritage department. Multiple injuries have taken place on set as well. Daniel Craig, star of the show, hurt his knee last week in an intense action scene. It is said to be hindering production, among other incidents. On Tuesday, a crew member was also in a serious accident. A camera truck swerved off road and crashed into a nearby barn. The second unit assistant director, Terry Madden, sustained serious injuries to his leg.

Daniel Craig was spotted all around Rome, looking sleek and stylish in the Aston Martin DB10. On one occasion he was decked out in a luxurious three piece suit and matching black driving-gloves. On Thursday, he and Monica Bellucci (the stunning new Bond girl), were seen shooting a funeral scene. Which character is done for is still a mystery. Craig looked classy in the crisp white shirt with matching black tie and trousers. The rest of the ensemble really made him look the part: leather gloves, sunglasses, and a full-length black coat. Bellucci looked just as posh in her pencil skirt, little black jacket, and luxe suede knee-high boots. The small hat perched on her head really completed the outfit. She wore her hair in a tight bun, while a veil seductively concealed part of her face.

Future hot spots for shooting include London, Mexico City, Tangier and Erfoud in Morocco, and a few gorgeous locations in Austria. Spectre will be opening in theaters everywhere early November of this year. Daily Mail reports on the story, and has over 50 pictures here. Check out the official James Bond website for all the news and updates on their latest projects, including Spectre. You can also see the new lines of luxury at Jaguar or Aston Martin at their sites. What was your favorite Bond film? Are you a fan of Daniel Craig as James Bond? Tell us what you think in the comments down below!

Daniel Craig on set with Aston Martin DB10

Stunt Driver on top, Daniel Craig at the wheel

Aston Martin DB10

Daniel Craig goes for a drive

Bond in Rome

Aston Martin by the Tiber

Bond Villain’s Jaguar CX75

Craig was spotted in another Aston Martin

Car Chase Set near Tiber River

Daniel Craig

Daniel Craig is James Bond

Daniel Craig and Monica Bellucci

Photo Credits: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/

The Vanquish Volante has some fierce engines, putting out whopping 568bhp with an AM29 6.0liter V12. You can go from a dead stop to 60mp in only 3.6 seconds with this wild ride. Controlling that powerful engine is an eight-speed Touchtronic III ZF automatic transmission. The eight gears, composed of four sets, and five shift elements make for optimal shifting and incredible acceleration. The gears shift in 130 milliseconds; now that’s fast.

This convertible is the king of all others. The roof, made of a lightweight, three-layer fabric folds in under 14 seconds. You can drop the roof at up to 30mph too, so no need to stop and get out to fight with an unruly top. The 100W Band & Olufsen BeoSound system is smart and exceptional. The system monitors whether the roof is up or down, and acclimates to the perfect sound balance. The Vanquish Volante has a 50% higher boot loading capacity than the DBS model.

“Breakthrough engine technology; machined combustion chambers, enlarged throttle bodies and knock sensing ensure AM29, new for the 2015 Vanquish Volante delivers power throughout the rev range.” – Aston Martin

The cabin is completely customizable and 100% deluxe. Aston Martin took the exquisite details and materials from the Vanquish Coupe but made them more awesome and visible for this model. You’ll have your choice of finishes, including Ocellus Teal, Viridian Green, Yellow Tang, and Diavolo Red new for 2015. Pick the perfect leather color for you. Match the calipers or keep them hidden. Whatever you want to do, Aston Martin allows you to style the car down to every detail.

Head over to the Aston Martin site to customize your own Vanquish, or peruse the web page to check out the full line. You can get the technical specs here. If you didn’t get your fill of photos, you can look at more on carbuzz.com. Are you a convertible person, or do you prefer the hard top? Is Aston Martin your favorite convertible designer? Let us know what you think in the comments down below! If you like the article, please rate and share!

Photo Credits: carbuzz.com

Jaguar F-TYPE Leather Cuff

Schimpke’s pieces range from $450 to $10k, a wide variety of luxuriousness not just catering to women. Crash Couture creates fashionable items for men and women, as well as unisex styles. In fact, some of her most popular pieces are for men, and include robust leather cuffs, money holders, fobs, and sharp cuff-links. Men can make their own fashion statement with the likes of the Jaguar F-TYPE cuff ($110), a sleek and classic look, or the Upcycled Mercedes-Benz G550 Cuff ($94),- a more rugged and modern fashion statement.

Artsy Audi S7

Crash Couture’s unique pieces currently feature semi-precious stones, riveted onto carefully selected metal from damaged luxury vehicles. These rivets are the only way to fasten the ornate stones, but this method makes for a firm and durable hold. The metal, after being pressed and polished back into prime condition, is engraved, by hand, with elaborate designs. Some of the most eye-catching and dazzling works include the Artsy Audi S7 ($460) – cuff engraving and styling reminiscent of 19^th stained glass, the floral and fashionable Mercedes-Benz SLS Malachite cuff ($380), and the wild Upcycled Porsche Leopard Print earrings ($189).

The future looks bright for Christi and Crash Couture. She told Forbes when asked about what was next for Crash,

“I just acquired a Lamborghini Gallardo in a very special color – Arancio Argos – a gorgeous orangey red… I am in the process of designing a cuff with diamonds and colored gemstones set into the car metal for a much more luxurious experience.”

The next line will feature pieces with custom VIN numbers to indicate their exclusivity and limited availability. An inscription on the inner band will display the car make, complementing the Certificate of Authenticity, which provides the details of make, model and creation date of the piece. For an additional bit of luxury, you can opt-in for a leather or lambskin cuff liner. These little liners are form-fitted to the cuff and are completely color customizable, transforming an elegant piece an everyday element.

You may have spotted some of these hot treasures adorning CEO’s and celebrities. Like the earrings worn by Katerina Graham or Olga Fonda in “Vampire Diaries”, both were fabulous gold earrings. Brigid Barnnagh of “Army Wives” is a fan of Minabea, and Terry Crews’ wife, Rebecca was spotted wearing a gorgeous necklace. If you’d like to own one of these unique and extravagant pieces, head over to the Minabea site to look the the Crash Collection. For the full story from Forbes, check out the article by Jim Dobson. Keep up the latest news by following the Minabea blog. They’ve also got a Pinterest and a Facebook page to follow. If you liked this article, remember to rate  and subscribe. Let us know your thoughts in the comments!

Christi Schimpke at her Workbench

Photo Credits: forbes.com, prweb.com, minabea.com