Shape and kinematics of elliptical galaxies: evolution due to merging at   z < 1.5
  Aims:In this study we investigate the evolution of shape and kinematics of elliptical galaxies in a cosmological framework.   Methods: We use a set of hydrodynamic, self-consistent simulations operating in the context of a concordance cosmological model where relaxed elliptical-like objects (ELOs) were identified at redshifts z=0, z=0.5, z=1 and z=1.5.   Results: The population of elliptical systems analysed here present a systematic change through time, i.e. evolution, by becoming rounder in general at z=0 and, at the same time more velocity dispersion supported. This is found to be primarily due to major dry mergers where only a modest amount of angular momentum is involved into the merger event. Despite the general trend, in a significant amount of cases the merger event involves a higher specific angular momentum, which in general causes the system to acquire a higher rotational support and/or a more oblate shape. These evolutionary patterns are still present when we study our systems in projection, mimicking real observations, and thus they should become apparent in future observations. 
A. C\'esar Gonz\'alez-Garc\'ia, Jos\'e O\~norbe, Rosa   Dom\'inguez-Tenreiro and M. \'Angeles G\'omez-Flechoso