Luxury Living Blog

Steam Powered Cars, That’s Hot

Steam powered engines were quite popular for a brief time around 1900, but lost its grip to the internal combustion engine.  External combustion engines are nothing new, and if Cyclone Power Technologies Cyclone Power Technologies Mark V Steam Enginehave their way, the steam-powered car will once again be as popular as gasoline-powered vehicles.

The gas powered cars eventually won the contest, as they were more convenient, with low maintenance and boasted better performance than the steam powered variety.  Prior to the electric starter, however, steam power was the champ.

Cyclone Power Technologies have developed a compact car that will burn any liquid fuel, kicking out 850 foot-pounds of torque at startup.  The Cyclone’s Mark V engine is about the size of a lawnmower engine, and features a closed loop water system, alleviating the need to tote along extra water.  And Oil?  No need!  The vapor drives and lubricates the pistons, freeing you from the oil crisis.

This technology may not be embraced quickly, as the automotive world is still taking tentative baby steps toward a greener future.  So how does it work?

There is a combustion chamber perched on the motor, where fuel is ignited and used to produce superheated steam.  The steam then coils within the combustion chamber, within just a few seconds.  Unlike the old steam powered automobiles, the startup is reached within 5 seconds, with full power available after about 15 seconds.  The six pistons form a radial configuration, hooked to a patented spider bearing which in turn rotates the crankshaft.  Like an electric motor, the Mark V engine reaches max torque at low RPMs, eliminating the need for a transmission.

After the steam is heated and used to power the pistons, it goes to a condensing unit where it is cooled and returned to liquid form, where it can be used again.  The Mark V can be powered with as little as four gallons of water, that is around 30 pounds!

Like I said, steam power, electric motors and other forms of hybrid technology remain in their infancy.  There are, of course, issues with steam power that need to be tweaked.  For example, the high-pressure superheated system could escape containment and be harmful.

I am picturing myself pulling up to a gas station and filling up with water.  Imagine if all the world’s cars, SUVs, luxury rental cars and more were powered by water!  I somehow just cannot picture a steam powered Ferrari just yet, but I dig the idea.  The environmental impact would be astonishing.
 

 

Cyclone Power Technologies will be ironing out the bugs, and I will keep you updated on this exciting historical yet futuristic auto technology.
 

 

 

 

Post by Imagine Lifestyles Luxury Rentals

Boutique Hotel Hides Within Chicago

Chicago’s Hidden Gem:  The Hotel Burnham 

Located inside one of Chicago’s oldest skyscrapers that once housed office buildings now houses one of the United States best boutique hotels according to Conde Nast.  The hotel is named for David Burnham, a famous Chicago architect, and is located on State and Washington right across from Macy’s, formerly the also-famous Marshall Fields.  Much of the original architecture was preserved in the 1999 renovation and is very evident as you walk into the main lobby and see all of the marble wainscoting on the walls and ceilings.  The rooms offer guests a very European feel and are placed inside the former offices of Chicago businessmen and executives alike. One can feel the glamour of this boutique hotel inside and out.   On some occasions parked outside you spot a Lamborghini, Aston Martin or Bentley. 

Hotel Burnham Chicago Ill

Most often when visiting Chicago, people think of the Peninsula, Ritz, or Trump as the place to stay for top-notch luxury and style.  Boutique hotels might not carry the weight of the corporate global name but that does not mean they cannot compete with the heavyweights of the hotel industry anymore.  Chicago has recently seen an increase in the amount of boutique hotels opening in the city and will most likely continue to do so as their popularity and success increases.  Next time you visit Chicago give Hotel Burnham a chance and see what happens.  If it is anything like what all the travel magazines and industry publications have to say you will not be disappointed.  

 

 

Post by Imagine Lifestyles Luxury Rentals

Ask Imagine: Labor Day Residence Rental Miami

Dear Imagine Lifestyles,

I will be in Miami for a week to celebrate Labor Day with a group of friends.  I do not think a traditional luxury hotel will suffice, and would prefer a residence rental Miami style to ensure that all of my guests are comfortable.  What luxury hotel also offers residence or condo rentals?

  I would also prefer that it be located within proximity of South Beach’s nightclubs, restaurants, shopping and hot spots. 
 

 

Thanks,

Scott, Manhattan

 

 

  

Imagine Lifestyles Luxury Rentals

Hello Scott,

Thanks for seeking us out for advice; we strive to be the source of luxury living in Miami, New York, Chicago and LA.  A Labor Day trip to Miami is always a great idea to draw a close to summer, and we are happy to give you some tips for your stay!

I am going to recommend that you stay at the Setai South Beach or the W Hotel South Beach, as both are in prime locations and offer luxury condo rentals with Oceanfront views.  There are one and two bedroom luxury condo rentals available within the residence sections of both hotels.  The W Hotel enjoyed its South Beach debut just this year, so everything is state of the art and brand spanking new. 

The Setai offers all of the same amenities, with a serene ambiance, quite the escape just off the streets of South Beach!  When you enter the Setai, you almost forget you are in the busy district of Sobe, with the deliciously designer recessed lighting, controlled noise levels and luxurious Eastern-infused décor. 

Both the W Hotel and the Setai are beachfront luxury hotels, within walking distance to South Beach’s entertainment hot spots, sultry nightclubs, swanky restaurants and sought after shopping destinations.  Both luxury hotels South Beach also offer their own upscale dining options, nightclubs and entertainment within the hotel.
 

We hope this is helpful to you, let us know when you plan to arrive, and if we can also assist you with a luxury car rental or SUV rental for your stay.
 

 

Sincerely,

Imagine Lifestyles

 

 

 

 

 

Post by Imagine Lifestyles Luxury Rentals

Le Mans Into the Future Event Sparks Imagination & Green Ignitions

The prestigious Le Mans race was rather creative and forward thinking this year, hosting an event called “Le Mans into the future” prior to the 78th annual event. 
 

The event highlighted unfolding eco-friendly concepts, hybrids and luxury technology.  Eco vehicles made demonstration laps during the event, including the following models and brands:

1.    Andros electric racecar
2.    Audi R8 e-Tron concept
3.    BMW Hydrogen 7
4.    Mazda RX-8 Hydrogen RE
5.    Peugeot RCZ Hybrid4
6.    Porsche 911 GT3 Hybrid
7.    Secma F16 Electrique
8.    Tesla Roadster
9.    Volkswagen Scirrocco Natural Gas

 

Le Mans Into the Future EventLe Mans is not a traditional style race because the winner is the vehicle that travels the farthest distance in a 24-hour time frame.  For this reason, efficiency is the name of the game, and the “Future of Le Mans” pre-race event was entirely fitting and fun.

When you really think about it, racing is a contest of fuel economy, rather than simply speed.  The less stops a car must make, the faster they will reach the finish, assisted by their power, of course.  This theory holds true for long distance races, where it is necessary to refuel.  Efficiency is king in longer distance racing, and Le Mans seems to be embracing a future of technology and showcasing the cars that will begin to deliver that change.

Yes, it certainly seems that the racing industry has began to explore alternative energy, starting with the revolutionary and diesel-powered Audi R10 racer a few years ago.   Audi claimed all three spots on the podium that year, conquering Peugeot, who also used diesel power.

Currently, Audi, Porsche, and Ferrari have all created some form of adaption to technology, and this seems to have inspired other car brands.  Everyone is predicting a green future, brimming with luxury hybrids, alternative fuels, reduced impact on the environment and dependence on fossil fuels.  Imagine a Ferrari hybrid boasting as much power as its fuel-sipping predecessor!  Technology is advancing in that direction!
 

 

Check out our fleet of luxury rental cars, aircraft charter and yacht charters on your way out!

 

 

 

 

 

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Luxury Rental Item: Roll Out in a Rolls Royce Ghost Rental!

When you think of an exotic car rental, some see a sparkling red Ferrari and hear the orgasmic hum of many, many horses.  While there is certainly nothing wrong with the described mental image, some forget about the old school glamour of a classic Rolls Royce.Rolls Royce Ghost Rental Miami

You look like you have seen a ghost.  Before you get to absorbed in flashbacks of days gone by, take a gander at the modern and fresh Rolls Royce rental car, our Ghost.  

The body of the Rolls Ghost retains most of the classic design cues that we all love, yet projects a modern and edgy vibe following a makeover.  The Ghost rental is an excellent choice to impress clients, celebrate a special event, indulge in an anniversary, or be chauffeured for that intimate occasion!

Now that I have your uh, wheels spinning, you should know that the 2010 Rolls Royce Ghost rental is exceptionally smooth and silent, and every bit as comfortable as it is luxurious and beautiful.   Our clients and friends are continually surprised by the lurch-free starts and stops, and the power it produces in spite of its larger size. 

If you opt for the Rolls-Royce chauffeured, you enjoy the luxury rental car just as much as if you personally were to drive it, as the interior and amenities were made to cater to passengers.   Yes, all modern amenities, electronics and gadgets can be found in the cabin of a Rolls Royce Ghost.

Let us know when you are ready to sit in the literal lap of luxury with a Rolls rental to drive or be driven in Miami, South Beach, New York, Chicago or Los Angeles in!  To find out more about this beautiful exotic rental car, contact us for a free quote.  A Rolls rental also makes a thoughtful gift idea, don't let the name spook you.

 

 

 

 

Post by Imagine Lifestyles Luxury Rentals

Big List: The $1 million Mercedes-Benz G-Class

This luxury SUV appears to have been based on a simple cardboard box…just replace the cardboard with carbon fiber.  Oh, and slap on a price tag of $1 million smackeroos.  Meet the Mercedes G-Couture.

This SUV is not only an eyesore; it makes no logical sense, yet there it is.  Yet, it does please me greatly that companies are willing to add luxurious carbon fiber to SUVs, it will not only look great, but lighten the gas-guzzling load and lower environmental impact. 

In my humble opinion, the G-Class SUV still bears too much of a resemblance to its original tank-ish beginnings.  Now it is a tank with a luxury badge, and demands a heavy wallet.  Now let’s get down to specs!
 

Engine:  5.7-liter supercharged (I love that word)
Power/Torque:  700 bhp
Top Speed:  158 miles per hour
0-60 Mark:  4.3 seconds
Fuel Economy:  Don’t ask
Competition:  Lunar Shuttle, Brabus G-Wagon, TechArt Magnum, Chuck Norris

 

Yes, the Mansory G-Couture is certainly generating its fair share of attention; hope it isn’t feeling to ‘boxed’ in.  The engine is from the Mercedes SLR, some take a shine to that, there is just something endearing about a ‘hand-me-down’.

You can likely deduce based on its proportions and power that this is not a luxury hybrid, but rather the environmental Antichrist.  That said, I still do not foresee the company encountering any trouble selling all 7 of these luxury boxes.   The intro pricing is around $700,000 for the basic model, with customizations available that hit the million marker.
Mercedes G-Class SUV $1 Million
The interior of the G-Couture is luxe, laced with rich carbon fiber.  The steering wheel is carbon fiber, the center console and there are awesome racing seats with carbon fiber shells!  Outstanding.  The way I see it is, if you are inside of this bad boy, you do not have to suffer looking at it!  Not sure it is quite luxury SUV rental material, however.

This is definitely a big list item, and among the priciest luxury SUVs available.  The type of buyer that can afford one of these likely already owns a Bugatti, Ferrari, Lambo, a few Porsches and a climate controlled storage facility already.  Bring on the pain.

 

Click here if you would like to see our full Luxury List.

 

 

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Million Dollar Yacht Washes Ashore Empty at Redington Beach

A mystery yacht has washed up on Florida’s west coast on Wednesday, with the motor running and no one onboard.  Authorities have been unsuccessful in locating its owner, and the 48-foot Sea Ray Sundancer luxury yacht is valued at around $1 million dollars, according to the company website. 

At this point of the mystery, authorities have located its previous owner, who sold it about two years ago.  Who knows how many times the vessel has changed hands after that sale, if any.  The luxury yacht is blue and white, with the name ‘Makin’ Waves’ and the most recent registration is out of Delaware.  Abandoned yacht is similar to one pictured at right.

There are two flags, a Mexican flag secured to the bow and an American flag at the stern.  Because the motor was running, and the strange circumstances of the abandoned yacht, foul play has not been ruled out, alth48' Sea Ray Sundancer Abandoned in Floridaough no immediate clues were available onboard and no missing persons have been reported at sea.

The luxury yacht could belong in Mexico or America, its origin is a mystery at this point. It does not seem to have been registered after the sale two years ago, a fact that could indicate a possible owner in Mexico. Officials from Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office and the U.S. Coast Guard are both searching for clues.

It is not uncommon for people to abandon property they can no longer afford, and that is also a possibility with the mystery yacht.  Thieves also abandon things at sea, and kids untie boats, yachts and other watercraft as pranks.  But when a million-dollar yacht hits shore with engines running, it peaks curiosity and suspicion.  We will be watching for an update as the story unfolds.
 

 

Check out our fleet of luxury yacht charters and luxury rental cars on your way out!
 

 

 

 

Post by Imagine Lifestyles Luxury Rentals

Luxury News of the Week: The Bentley Mulsanne

Luxury News of the Week: Bentley Mulsanne

How does a company such as Bentley, makers of some of the finest automobiles in the World, outdo itself?  Most who have seen or been lucky enough to drive the new Mulsanne would point directly to their latest creation and just smile.  Design Director Dirk van Braeckel successfully integrated hints of classic Bentleys into a completely contemporary shape.  Viewing from the front, one might assume they are looking at a Rolls Royce Phantom until you notice the trademark B on the hood.  The design from the roof into the wide back end might remind some of the Continental R’s of the 90’s but the larger doors and pillars bring in elements of the more modern Flying Spur.  This Bentley truly is one like you have never seen before even though it has some recognizable characteristics from Bentley’s of yesterday.  This may be the perfect sedan to add to a Chicago exotic rental cars fleet.

Bentley Mulsanne Exotic Rental Car ChicagoLike all Bentley’s, the elegance is not the only thing that stands out especially when you take a look under the hood.  The Mulsanne did not spare anything when engineers designed the all-new 6 ¾ liter, V-8 that cranks out 505 HP.  The Mulsanne also incorporates paddle shifting behind the steering wheel for the first time ever on a Bentley model.  Another rare feature of the Mulsanne is the twin-booster braking system that uses iron and aluminum discs along with electronic brakes to bring this monster to a rest on a dime.  The Mulsanne doesn’t come cheap though with a price tag of roughly $340,000.  Don’t sweat the high cost though because the car also comes with the world’s most powerful production in-car amplifier with 2200 Watts, eight DSP modes and 20 custom made speakers.  Making any home-audio system look meager is just one of the many qualities that make the new Bentley Mulsanne one of the finest automobiles currently available for sale in the world.

Imagine Lifestyles Chicago is proud to carry Bentley rental cars within its fleet of luxury rental cars and would love to add the Mulsanne to the fleet down the road.  For those of you who want to get a taste of Bentley and all it has to offer the lucky driver, contact Imagine Lifestyles to set up an exotic car rental for yourself.

 

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Top 10 Celebrities We Are Holding a Free Luxury Rental Car For

I bet these celebs wish they could get behind the wheel of one of our cars, and now they can.  For free.  Well, almost free.  We would, of course, want a video testimonial expressing how badass it was to peel through South Beach in one of our sumptuous luxury cars. 
 

So, will the real celebs please stand up, and take us up on our offer?  Sit down Kayne, we will let you finish later.

1.   LeBron James
2.   Ashton Kutcher
3.   Brad Pitt
4.   Tiger Woods
5.   Megan Fox
6.   Justin Timberlake
7.    Ellen Degeneres
8.    Cameron Diaz
9.    Perez Hilton
10.  Guy Kawasaki

 

LeBron James has just made the big decision to join Miami Heat this season, and we have mentioned before that we are holding some special luxury car rentals just for him, though he has yet to take us up on our offer.  Welcome to Miami, LeBron!

Ashton Kutcher would be awesome to encounter, and we really wish he would use one (or more) of our luxury rental cars Miami for one of his infamous pranks!  C’mon Ash, don’t be a punk!  Love watching him do that.

Up next is Brad Pitt.  I am aware that he is now viewed as a pair, but we just want the solitary Brad Pitt, the raw material.  Sorry Angelina Jolie, but a luxury car rental is no place for smashed French fries and spoiled milk.  I can see Brad plowing through the streets of South Beach in a car as hot as he is, it would heat up even Miami!  I just watched his old movie ‘Kalifornia’ the other day, and realized all over again how talented he truly is.

Tiger Woods is also gracing our list of celebs that we are offering free luxury car rentals.  I feel like it would be fun to see Tiger and Ludacris riding along together through South Beach, with Luda’s new track playing “I come out swingin, like Tiger Wood’s wife!” …ok, he likely will not go for that.  But Tiger should go for one of our luxury SUV rentals next time he is down for some golf, we can hook him up nicely.Imagine Lifestyles Luxury Rentals

Megan Fox.  The answer to this is simple:  It is Megan Fox.  Who wouldn’t want to see this Fox behind the wheel of a luxury car rental like a red hot Ferrari F430 Spider?  Megan, it is free, we will do anything for you…please love us! 

Justin Timberlake is next because the boy is on fire.  Everything he touches seems to scorch, and our exotic rental cars would be no different.  Hey Justy, we will give you ‘Four Minutes’ to show us some ‘Summer Love’.  (You know that was funny).

Ellen Degeneres.  Hands down one of the best people out there, down for humanity and in possession of an actual personality!  Hey Ellen, while ours are not nearly as hot as yours, you are welcome to try out one of our Porsche rentals, or any other luxury car you like!  You may even bring Portia, and let her drive the Porsche, too!  I think Ellen’s video testimonial would be bursting with awesomeness.

Cameron Diaz is sneaky.  She appears to be a girly-girl, but we all know she is just an awesome boy trapped in a really hot body.  I would like to challenge Cameron to choose one of our luxury rental rides and create a funny and original video testimonial with it.  There is just something about this girl…and Mary.

Perez Hilton.  Not to be confused with the other Paris Hilton, we welcome Perez to test out a luxury rental car of his choosing, and feel more confident that he would remain sober or be smart enough to opt for a chauffeur.  I also would love to read what Perez would write in his celebrity blog about experiencing South Beach in one of our rides.  Perez, LOVE LOVE LOVE your blog (Perezhilton.com).  Give us a call, Perez, let’s do this, you know you wanna.

Last but certainly not least we invite Guy Kawasaki to drive one of our hot car rentals for free.  We love Guy, and we love Apple.  Enough said.

So to the above-mentioned celebs, we hope that you take us up on our offer, there is something special about all of you.   Notice we did not offer a free car rental to Lindsay Lohan…I think she has received her Burn Notice from society.  Speaking of, the cast of Burn Notice would be welcome to drive our fleet of luxury rental cars, too!  We are in fact, neighbors.  It would just be the neighborly thing to do.

 

 

 

 

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Luxury Rental Of The Week: Lamborghini Gallardo

Lamborghini Gallardo

The Lamborghini Gallardo rental car is Lamborghini’s most-produced model ever made by the company.  Named after a famous breed of fighting bull, the Lamborghini Gallardo provides plenty of power for the lucky owner or client.  Our Gallardo exotic rental car has an advanced six-speed transmission, which enables much faster and easier shifting for the driver.  The electro-hydraulically controlled transmission is controlled as the driver shifts with paddles located just behind the steering wheel.  The Gallardo also has the option of being driven in an automatic mode as well as an automatic sport mode giving the driver a plethora of options.  Take a test drive in this exotic rental car this weekend in Chicago.
  While you are testing our Lamborghin stay awhile and check out our fleet of Chicago exotic rental cars

The powerful V10 engine enables the driver to reach top speeds of 196 mph.  Drivers will also reach 0-60 in 4.0 seconds, making it one of the faster cars on the road today.  The car weighs in at 3,153 pounds, enabling the lighting quick acceleration speeds.  The car will also turn every head on each block it turns down. Clients who rent it and people who see it often refer to our gun-metal grey Gallardo as the Batmobile.Lamborghini Gallardo

The Gallardo was originally envisioned in 1997 and was often referred to as the “Baby Lambo” by company executives.  Finally, in 2003 the first Gallardo was introduced and was meant to be a more accessible and feasible car for the consumer.  The Lamborghini Bull emblem on the front hood and steering wheel, along with the Lamborghini word mark on the back end make sure to signal to everyone on the road that you are in the presence of perfection and beauty.  The lovely sound of the engine roaring will also signal your presence wherever you might be.  Arguably the greatest street legal sports car available for purchase, the Lamborghini is a car lover’s dream car.  With so much racing history behind them, Lamborghini can guarantee the ultimate sports car.  If you can’t afford your own Lamborghini Gallardo, then rent ours this weekend.

This weekend only, the Lamborghini Gallardo exotic rental car is available for just $1299 per day.  Contact Imagine Lifestyles immediately to set up your rental before it’s too late.

 

Post by Imagine Lifestyles Luxury Rentals