| Please add updates@feedmyinbox.com to your address book to make sure you receive these messages in the future. | |
| Back to the Future Toyota Tacoma: Pickuptrucks.com tests Marty McFly's reborn ride
September 11, 2009 at 8:58 pm
|
| Filed under: Concept Cars, SEMA Show, Truck, Toyota, Off-Road 
Toyota Tacoma Truck concept - Click above for high-res image gallery
Today, we hearken back to the days when Toyota's trucks were simply called, uh... Toyota Trucks. Suddenly, its 1985 all over again. We may be getting somewhat tired of the constant retro influences invading today's automotive marketplace, but we'll gladly give the Japanese automaker a pass if it finds a way to put the Tacoma Truck Concept - better known to many as the Back to the Future Truck - from last year's SEMA Show into production.
We'd take the BTTF Truck exactly as it sits in concept form, complete with the cream pearl exterior with retro black graphics. Inside, the multi-toned brown and beige surfaces are period perfect, though it may be tough finding an adequate supply of 20 year-old Recaro fabric. Stick with the solid front and rear axles along with the standard four-wheel drive too, but we'd prefer to see a slightly more powerful powerplant up front (diesel anyone?) than the stock 159-horsepower 2.7-liter.
As far as driving impressions go, PickupTrucks.com managed to snag some seat time in the not-so-futuristic truck, finding that it handles dirt roads with aplomb. Toyota admits that this particular concept was assembled a bit too hastily to tackle the real tough stuff, but the hardware is all there to make for a real-life off-road rambler with a few more weekends worth of wrench spinning. So, could it ever enter production? Normally, we'd say there's a snowball's chance in... the Sahara. But, you know, never say never.
[Source: PickupTrucks.com]Back to the Future Toyota Tacoma: Pickuptrucks.com tests Marty McFly's reborn ride originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 11 Sep 2009 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments 
 |
| VIDEO: Second teaser for pair of Mini concepts steps further into Bizzareland
September 11, 2009 at 8:29 pm
|
| Filed under: Frankfurt Motor Show, Coupe, Videos, MINI 
The second video has arrived for the "2 B THRILLED" and "2 B DESIRED" Mini concepts that will show up in Frankfurt next week. This one moves things on a bit from the last one, but it's just as girl-power-ified and just as odd.
At this point, if we find the two concepts in a cage wearing bikinis at the show or in a subsequent video, we will not be surprised. Follow the jump to see the latest vid.
[Source: Mini]Continue reading VIDEO: Second teaser for pair of Mini concepts steps further into Bizzareland VIDEO: Second teaser for pair of Mini concepts steps further into Bizzareland originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 11 Sep 2009 19:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments 
 |
| Daily U-Turn: What you missed on 9.11.09
September 11, 2009 at 8:20 pm
|
|
Daily U-Turn: What you missed on 9.11.09 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 11 Sep 2009 19:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments 
 |
| Remember that 'No Women on Top Gear' thing? Forget it. Hammond wants Angelina
September 11, 2009 at 7:58 pm
|
| Filed under: Etc., UK, Celebrities 
Last month, Jeremy Clarkson said that introducing a female host to Top Gear "would be a disaster." The relative youngster among the Top Gear crew, Richard Hammond, isn't so sure he'd call it a disaster, depending on the female in question. Hammond's opinion is that old fogies Clarkson and May are simply out of it, and "If we had to have a female co-host, I think we'd all choose Angelina Jolie," because she "has a Land Rover and guns."
It doesn't hurt that a fair bit of the population finds Jolie rather attractive, and Hammond is no different. And there is where Hammond might have just proved Clarkson's point about a female host being a catastrophe. Calling Jolie "utterly, utterly gorgeous," Hammond says with her on the crew "I'd just keep fainting." And how good could TG be with Clarkson, Captain Slow, Jolie, and a comatose Hamster?
[Source: IOL | Photo by Vince Bucci/Getty]Remember that 'No Women on Top Gear' thing? Forget it. Hammond wants Angelina originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 11 Sep 2009 18:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments 
 |
| Everything you wanted to know about the Mercedes SLS AMG
September 11, 2009 at 7:29 pm
|
| Filed under: Coupe, Performance, Mercedes-Benz, Luxury 
Mercedes-Benz has unveiled the microsite for the SLS AMG called "From the Ground Up," and it has all the information you need on gullwinged retro rocket from the space from to components to the magnesium backrests in the seats.
At the end of it all, there's a visualizer so you can start building the SLS you would will order when they go on sale in a little over a year, so start saving. We would say that the microsite will has enough info to keep you busy until the car shows up next year, but you won't have to wait that long -- we'll be bringing you even more info from its unveiling next week in Frankfurt. Hat tip to USB!
[Source: Mercedes-Benz]Everything you wanted to know about the Mercedes SLS AMG originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 11 Sep 2009 18:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments 
 |
| REPORT: GM employees pay cuts to be restored - but not for senior execs
September 11, 2009 at 6:58 pm
|
| Filed under: GM, Earnings/Financials 
2009 has been a rough year for General Motors' white collar workforce. The embattled workers have endured bankruptcy, job cuts and pay reductions, but today some good news came via email. The Detroit News is reporting that Human Resources Vice President Mary Barra sent out an official missive today telling workers that the 3%-7% paycuts the workers received back in May would be restored effective September 1. Executive pay cuts of 10% are also being restored, though the base salary reductions of senior executives will not be restored.
GM says it saved $50 million by instituting the cuts during the four months they were in effect, but the decision to restore the pay levels was made by GM's new board of directors and executive management. Company spokesman Tom Wilkinson says the paycuts would help retain the employees it had left, adding "we've got a much smaller company now and the quality of our people is more critical than ever. We are in risk of losing good people."
Recent news for white collar workers at GM isn't all rosy, though, as the company plans to cut up to 6,000 salary workers through attrition and involuntary layoffs. GM stated earlier this week that it plans to reduce its white collar headcount by 1,000 workers by the end of September.
[Source: Detroit News | Image: Bill Pugliano/Getty]REPORT: GM employees pay cuts to be restored - but not for senior execs originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 11 Sep 2009 17:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments 
 |
| Frankfurt Preview: Toyota unleashes the goods on its Auris HSD Concept
September 11, 2009 at 6:29 pm
|
|  Toyota Auris HSD Full Hybrid concept - Click above for high-res image gallery
We've already received a sneak peek at some early images of the Toyota Auris HSD concept, but Toyota was woefully tight-lipped about disclosing on any actual details at that time. No longer, as the Japanese automaker has just dropped all the pertinents and a bunch of new images of its upcoming hybrid ahead of the car's official debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show.
As we noted, there are solar panels installed on the Auris HSD's roof that Toyota says are a further development of the solar-powered ventilation system which debuted on the 2010 Prius. Additional solar panels on the car's dashboard develop enough juice to recharge mobile phones and portable electronics using built-in charging trays.
As expected, the Auris HSD is powered by a 1.8-liter four cylinder engine mated to Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive technology as used in the Prius. Toyota expects the run to 60 mph to take about 10 seconds and carbon emissions to be below 100 grams per kilometer. LED lights join a slew of aerodynamic tweaks that reportedly drop the car's drag coefficient to .28 round out the exterior features unique to the concept.
Inside, blue Gaucholino leather joins a pearl white console to offer a unique showcar appearance. We're not sure how many of these touches will make it into production (which is scheduled to begin next year at Toyota's Burnaston factory in England with sales scheduled to start during the second half of 2010), but we'd like to see the mobile chargers make the leap. Click past the break for the official press release and be sure to check out our updated gallery below.
[Source: Toyota]
Continue reading Frankfurt Preview: Toyota unleashes the goods on its Auris HSD Concept Frankfurt Preview: Toyota unleashes the goods on its Auris HSD Concept originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 11 Sep 2009 17:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments 
 |
| BMW planning special-edition X5 xDrive35d as model turns 10
September 11, 2009 at 6:03 pm
|
| Filed under: SUV, BMW, Diesel, Luxury BMW X5 10-Year Edition -- Click above for high-res image gallery
To celebrate ten years of X5 sales, BMW is introducing an xDrive35d 10-Year Edition X5. The special edition SUV gets unique wheels, aluminum trim, and a panoramic glass sunroof, along with Nappa leather, comfort seats, and BMW Individual Piano Black trim inside.
There will be just 2,000 of the 10-Year Editions made, with 200 of them going to the UK. The diesel has been a huge mover on the isle, making up 95% of volume. If you want one you can get it now for an out-the-door price of £53,075 ($88,507 U.S.). If you just want to get a better look at it, there's a press release after the jump and high-res photos below.
[Source: BMW]
Continue reading BMW planning special-edition X5 xDrive35d as model turns 10 BMW planning special-edition X5 xDrive35d as model turns 10 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 11 Sep 2009 17:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments 
 |
| REPORT: High-tech muffler speakers make diesel engine sound sporty, cut noise levels by 20 dB
September 11, 2009 at 5:30 pm
|
| Filed under: Etc., Safety, Technology 
An exhaust-system and heating-solution supplier has reportedly engineered an electronic way to modify the sound coming from a vehicle's tailpipe. The company, Eberspächer, claims the innovation can make diesel-powered vehicles sound sportier and add an audible sound track to near-silent electric vehicles.
While mechanical devices - including flaps, dampers, or acoustic materials - have become commonplace in modern exhaust systems, this unique technology utilizes a dedicated electronic control unit (ECU) to emit sound waves to counter much of the unwanted frequencies (similar to the process of noise-canceling headphones). Of course, the same speaker technology that generates the "white noise" may be used to create new exhaust notes.
The obvious benefits are more appealing exhaust tunes, but it doesn't just stop there. This sound-deadening technology allows automakers to reduced the size of the existing mufflers (saving both weight and cost), and it may add some needed noise to the electric vehicles navigating our roads and highways.
[Source: SAE International]
REPORT: High-tech muffler speakers make diesel engine sound sporty, cut noise levels by 20 dB originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 11 Sep 2009 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments 
 |
| Hidden Porsche Turbo configurator discovered - play with it while you can...
September 11, 2009 at 4:58 pm
|
| Filed under: Etc., Porsche 
If you simply log onto Porsche's website, you aren't given the opportunity to customize the new-for-2010 911 Turbo. However, thanks to the arcane keystrokes of AB reader Matt, the Turbo configurator has been discovered, and you can play with it... at least until Porsche disables it.
To play: go to the 911 C4S configurator and click "Models," then "From Scratch," then choose the 911, and then choose any one of the 13 variants offered. A pre-configured car will come up, choose "View Configuration," then "Customize," then "Accept Changes," and voilà! a Porsche Turbo canvas awaits your tasteful palette. You can't change the red interior color, however.
It's a little work, sure, but it's a Porsche Turbo of your very own - and besides, what else were you really going to do with your Friday night?
[Source: Porsche]Hidden Porsche Turbo configurator discovered - play with it while you can... originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 11 Sep 2009 15:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments 
 |
| New Ford Scorpion mascot looks like lost Journey LP cover
September 11, 2009 at 4:29 pm
|
| Filed under: Truck, Marketing/Advertising, Ford, Diesel
Yes, this really is the new mascot for Ford's 6.7-liter turbodiesel Scorpion V8 engine. We thought General Motors had the inside track on all Transformers-related marketing goods, but it seems Ford may have had Scorponok on the brain when it set out to design this particular bit of '80s rock band-inspired figure.
Our friends at PickupTrucks.com report that the mechanized Scorpion mascot was designed using actual diagrams of the diesel engine's internal bits and pieces. Note the engine block body, connecting rod pinchers and the tail that protrudes from the turbocharger. Yeah, it's a bit odd... but as children of the '80s, we kinda dig it in an oddball nostalgic kind of way. We'll take ours silkscreened on a plain white t-shirt to be worn at the next local swap meet.
[Source: PickupTrucks.com]
New Ford Scorpion mascot looks like lost Journey LP cover originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 11 Sep 2009 15:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments 
 |
| Frankfurt Preview: 507-hp Wiesmann MF5 Roadster
September 11, 2009 at 3:58 pm
|
| Filed under: Frankfurt Motor Show, Convertible, Performance, Europe, Specialty, Luxury  Weismann MF5 Roadster - Click above for high-res image
Wiesmann's made an all-out drop-top assault in 2009, beginning with the 367-hp V8-powered MF4 Roadster unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in March. As reported earlier, the retrotastic automaker hailing from Dulmen, Germany is bringing another open-aired creation to the Frankfurt Motor Show, and it's finally released a teaser shot to whet our appetites ahead of the big day.
Powered by the BMW M5/M6-derived V10, Weismann says the 507-hp MF5 Roadster hits the magic 60 MPH mark in 3.9 seconds - the same as its fixed roof sibling - and can blast to a top speed of 192 mph.
Aside from the cloth roof, the body remains unchanged and all the standard equipment carries over to the Roadster, including the dual airbags, ABS and stability control. Pricing is expected to crest the $250,000 mark, but with Weismann only planning to produce 55 examples, we have little doubt they'll find their way into enthusiastic collector's garages. Make the jump for the official release.
[Source: Wiesmann]
Continue reading Frankfurt Preview: 507-hp Wiesmann MF5 Roadster Frankfurt Preview: 507-hp Wiesmann MF5 Roadster originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 11 Sep 2009 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments 
 |
| Chrysler to resume leasing vehicles soon?
September 11, 2009 at 3:28 pm
|
| Filed under: Car Buying, Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Earnings/Financials 
2009 Dodge Ram - Click above for high-res image gallery
In late July 2008, Chrysler announced that it would stop leasing vehicles effective August 1. The news helped exasperate the decline of Chrysler group vehicle sales while giving customers fewer options for getting into a new vehicle. After leasing was discontinued, Chrysler's market share dropped from 11.3% to 9.2%. The decline came in part because of Chrysler's very public bankruptcy proceedings and its lackluster product lineup, but there is little doubt that the end of vehicle leasing was also a major contributor to the automaker's precipitous decline.
In an effort to get back on the right track, Automotive News is reporting that dealer sources say leasing could return to the Pentastar as soon as September 18. Chrysler is reportedly waiting until after next Tuesday to make an announcement so it can look over residual value data from the Automotive Lease Guide before making a final decision. Chrysler, which uses GMAC as its finance arm, could follow General Motors' lead and offer leasing only on select vehicles. AN estimates that the Dodge Ram, Journey, Nitro and Grand Caravan, the Jeep Grand Cherokee and the Chrysler Town & Country could be among the vehicles ready for lease duty.
[Source: Automotive News]
Chrysler to resume leasing vehicles soon? originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 11 Sep 2009 14:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments 
 |
| Sneak peek at Jaguar's 'Limo-Green' series hybrid concept
September 11, 2009 at 2:58 pm
|
| Filed under: Sedan, Jaguar, Lotus, Alternative Fuel
For the past year, Jaguar, Lotus, Caparo Vehicle technologies and the MIRA proving ground have been working on a UK government-funded project dubbed Limo-Green. The goal of the project was to develop and build a series hybrid luxury sedan. Earlier this week, Jaguar showed off the car for the first time. Most of the powertrain development work was done using a last generation XJ, but recently all the hardware was moved into the just launched 2010 Jaguar XJ.
Like the Chevy Volt and Fisker Karma, the Limo-Green uses an electric motor for propulsion, in this case a 145 kW, 295 lb-ft unit. A lithium battery pack moves the car for 30 miles on a charge and then the Lotus-developed 1.2-liter range extender takes over for the remainder of the 600-mile range. We've contacted Jaguar for more information, but we're still waiting to hear back. In the meantime, AutoCar is reporting that the big Jag gets 47 mpg (US) on the EU combined cycle with CO2 emissions under 120 g/km.
[Source: AutoCar]
Sneak peek at Jaguar's 'Limo-Green' series hybrid concept originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 11 Sep 2009 13:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments 
 |
| Family Style: 2010 Ford Grand C-Max hits web ahead of Frankfurt rollout
September 11, 2009 at 2:29 pm
|
| Filed under: Frankfurt Motor Show, Minivan/Van, Wagon, Europe, Hatchback, Ford  2010 Ford Grand C-Max - Click above for high-res image gallery Last week, we gave you a sneak peek at Ford of Europe's new 2011 C-Max people mover. That Iosis Max-inspired "compact multi-activity vehicle" will officially debut in a few days at the Frankfurt Motor Show. Based on the company's new global C-platform architecture that will underpin the next Ford Focus, the 2011 Ford C-Max will be powered by a new 1.6-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder. Beyond that we don't know much else about this Honda Fit-challenging tall hatch. What we do know is that it will be joined at the Messe by a bigger brother.
This morning, word (and official images) leaked out about the seven-seat, sliding door, extended version seen here - the 2010 Ford Grand C-Max. Looking a lot like its little sibling, the Grand C-Max is based on the same platform, with an extended wheelbase to house its three rows of seats. The greenhouse also gets tweaked in the taffy-pulling exercise, as does the roof. The biggest change is the use of the sliding rear doors, which make this Grand C-Max more like the Mazda5. We'll have further information as it's released and plenty of live pictures from Frankfurt when it is officially unveiled. Until then, check out the gallery below.
[Source: Ford via WorldCarFans]
Family Style: 2010 Ford Grand C-Max hits web ahead of Frankfurt rollout originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 11 Sep 2009 13:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments 
 |
| Mazda MX-5 Superlight leaked ahead of Frankfurt
September 11, 2009 at 1:57 pm
|
| Filed under: Concept Cars, Frankfurt Motor Show, Convertible, Performance, Mazda, Specialty  Mazda MX-5 Superlight - Click above for high-res image gallery
With an endless string of concepts cars peppered across these pages, we often find ourselves saying, "Yeah, I'd drive that." But with the Frankfurt-bound Mazda Superlight concept, we're saying "Hey - I wanna build that!"
Conceived and created as a way to celebrate the MX-5 Miata's 20th anniversary - along with showcasing Mazda's focus on lightweight performance - the Superlight's new profile and 2,194-pound curb weight is the brainchild of the automaker's European R&D center in Oberursel, Germany.
Based off the recently facelifted roadster, the most obvious change to the Superlight is its speedster profile, which involved removing the windshield, retractable roof and frame. From there, Mazda's European team extended the aluminum hood towards the cabin and mounted an aluminum, wide-angle rear-view mirror, along with a set of roll-over hoops fitted with LED brake lights.
The passenger compartment benefits from a thorough stripping, with the removal of the sound insulation, carpeting and air conditioning unit. In their place goes a set of carbon fiber racing buckets coated in the same brown leather as the steering wheel, armrests and aluminum shifter and hand brake. The dash is a custom fiberglass and plastic unit, with the stock MX-5's gauges joining an engine-start button bringing to life the standard 1.8-liter four-cylinder (putting out 126 hp and 123 lb-ft of torque) and equipped with a Mazdaspeed cold-air intake and exhaust. But with the diet and minimal engine mods, the run from 0-to-60 MPH comes in at 8.9 seconds.
The track has been increased by 50mm all around to accommodate the larger four-piston calipers and slotted discs, with the whole package dropped by 30mm courtesy of a Bilstein B16 coil-overs. Eibach anti-roll bars are fitted front and rear, and the Superlight rolls on stock 17-inch wheels coated in 205/45 rubber.
According to Mazda Motor Europe's Chief Designer, Peter Birtwhistle, "I've dreamed of building a Mazda MX-5 with this kind of radical form for a long time. Now that weight reduction has become a dominant factor in automotive development, the time is ripe for it." Ripe indeed, and color us inspired. Now if we can just find the right donor car...
[Source: Mazda via Carscoop]Continue reading Mazda MX-5 Superlight leaked ahead of Frankfurt Mazda MX-5 Superlight leaked ahead of Frankfurt originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 11 Sep 2009 12:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments 
 |
| VIDEO: Mexican Ford Focus commercial features familiar soundtrack, surprise ending
September 11, 2009 at 1:29 pm
|
| Filed under: Budget, Marketing/Advertising, Videos, Hatchback, Ford
The Ford Focus is an automotive study in duality. Europeans get a really good, second generation version of Ford's C-segment wunderkind, while motorists here in the U.S. make do with an updated family based on the first-generation model. Actually, we call the second-gen Focus the "Euro" model, but the fact is that most of the free world receives the newer, superior model, while America waits patiently for the 2011 model to come hither. Our Mexican neighbors to the south have nothing to wait for, for in the land of Pancho Villa, the upgraded Focus is the Focus of record.
Beyond the jump is the latest commercial for the Focus, and it's a good one. For starters, Ford's marketing team chose some sweet tunes for the commercial's sound track. Here's a hint on the song: you'll want to wax vintage automobiles and paint acres of fencing as soon as you hear it.
The commercial appears to be some sort of Skip-Barber-meets-Tim-Burton driving school, with a Bourne Supremacy-style pursuit and an ass-kicking parallel parking job. At the end of the video, members of the Mexico viewing audience gets a quick glimpse of a lime green 2010 Focus RS in all its 300 horsepower glory. Hit the jump to view the video - and if you can't remember where you've heard that soundtrack before, watch the second video as well. Thanks for the tip, Miguel!
[Source: Ford via YouTube]
Continue reading VIDEO: Mexican Ford Focus commercial features familiar soundtrack, surprise ending VIDEO: Mexican Ford Focus commercial features familiar soundtrack, surprise ending originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 11 Sep 2009 12:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments 
 |
| Shelby lowering price of $20k GT500KR hood after web outrage erupts
September 11, 2009 at 12:57 pm
|
| Filed under: Aftermarket, Coupe, Performance, Ford, Earnings/Financials  Shelby GT500KR - Click above for high-res image gallery
When we drove the Shelby GT500KR at Miller Motorsports Park last May, we were impressed with the steps that Ford and Shelby had taken to make its new King of the Road a special vehicle. Not only was the KR a huge improvement over the GT500 (which led to the development of the 2010 GT500), but the car featured trick items like a carbon fiber hood and lightweight wheels wrapped with R-compound tires. At that time, Shelby also proudly told us that none of the KR-specific parts would be available for sale separately to ensure that owners of lesser Mustangs could not make shadetree replicas that might compromise the KR's image. Of course, all of this exclusivity and performance came at a price: $79,995 to be exact.
$18,400 for a new hood, $3,392.50 for a front spoiler, and $632.50 for a set of hood pins Unfortunately, as one GT500KR owner has learned the hard way, replacement parts for this pony car can be surprisingly dear. After an unfortunate incident with a critter on the road resulted in a modestly damaged front end, the owner in question was shocked to learn about the high cost of his vehicle's replacement parts. And as is increasingly the way these days, he aired his displeasure on the web. That initial report has since touched off a firestorm in the online Shelby community, with the issue spreading to numerous forums and chat rooms.
So just why were these replacement parts such a contentious issue? In the main, it's a numbers thing. As in $18,400 for a new hood, $3,392.50 for a front spoiler, and even $632.50 for a set of hood pins, among other things. Further, the disgruntled owner informed a forum member that Shelby requires any damaged KR parts to be returned to their facility in Las Vegas before new replacements can be sent out.
Obviously, a bit of due diligence was needed to verify the claimed replacement pricing and parts return policy, so we got on the phone with Jim Owens, vice president of marketing and communications at Shelby to get the straight scoop. Click through to the jump to hear what we learned.
Photos copyright (C)2009 Drew Phillips / Weblogs, Inc.
[Sources: Spokentorque.com, Team Shelby]Continue reading Shelby lowering price of $20k GT500KR hood after web outrage erupts Shelby lowering price of $20k GT500KR hood after web outrage erupts originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 11 Sep 2009 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments 
 |
| Limited-edition CCXR Trevita to shine like a diamond. Well, millions of them, actually.
September 11, 2009 at 12:28 pm
|
| Filed under: Coupe, Performance, Technology  Koenigsegg CCXR Trevita - Click above for high-res image gallery
With much of the recent news regarding Koenigsegg being about their acquisition of Saab, you might have forgotten that the Swedish auto manufacturer builds supercars. Well, probably not, but it was refreshing to see Koenigsegg throw a changeup and release details of their latest special edition model, the Trevita.
Based on the CCXR model, the limited-edition supercar appears to have a simple silver paint job from a distance, but a closer look reveals a bare carbon fiber body coated with a unique diamond finish put directly into the weave using a process specially developed by Koenigsegg. According to the company, use of the "Koenigsegg Proprietary Diamond Weave" (catchy, eh?) means that "When sunlight hits the car, it sparkles like millions of silvery white diamonds infused inside the visible carbon fiber weave bodywork."
Along with diamond weave finish, the Trevita, which evidently means "three whites" in Swedish, features a double carbon wing, paddle shifters, an upgraded exhaust system, carbon ceramic brakes, an infotainment system, and more. There's no word on pricing, but just three will be produced and we're guessing that they will demand a hefty premium over the "standard" CCXR.
No official word yet on whether the Trevita will roll out at next week's Frankfurt show, but we'll have our SLRs at the ready just in case. For now, though, you'll have to content yourself with the high-res gallery below.
[Source: Koenigsegg via GTSpirit.com]Continue reading Limited-edition CCXR Trevita to shine like a diamond. Well, millions of them, actually. Limited-edition CCXR Trevita to shine like a diamond. Well, millions of them, actually. originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 11 Sep 2009 11:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments 
 |
| Frankfurt Preview: Bentley Continental Series 51
September 11, 2009 at 12:00 pm
|
| Filed under: Frankfurt Motor Show, Convertible, Coupe, Performance, Bentley, Luxury 
Bentley Continental GT/C Series 51 -- Click above for high-res image gallery
As with Rolls-Royce and its Bespoke Collection, at the Frankfurt Motor Show, Bentley will be introducing its Continental Series 51 cars for the GT and GTC. These will be a cadre of models further tailored by Crewe's designers. Each car "will feature a highly distinctive interior color palette and unique exterior design cues." The first car to show off the line wears an interior in Imperial Blue, Linen, and Newmarket Tan, with color-matched floor mats with contrasting stitching.
You can top the tri-tone interior with a two-tone paint job outside, and throw Bentley's new self-leveling wheel center caps on the 20-inchers. The Series 51 cars will be available to order from this month. You can read all about them in the press release after the jump and check the first one out in the gallery of high-res photos below.
[Source: Bentley]Continue reading Frankfurt Preview: Bentley Continental Series 51 Frankfurt Preview: Bentley Continental Series 51 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 11 Sep 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments 
 |
| Honda Accord Crosstour to be built at East Liberty, Ohio plant
September 11, 2009 at 11:30 am
|
| Filed under: Plants/Manufacturing, Crossover, Honda  2010 Honda Accord Crosstour - Click above for image gallery
This week, Honda marked the thirtieth anniversary of the start of motorcycle production in the United States with a tree planting ceremony and a new production announcement. Legions of Facebook "fans" of the new Honda Accord Crosstour will surely be thrilled to learn that the company's new lifted hatchback thingy will be built at the East Liberty, OH assembly plant. East Liberty already builds Accord sedans and coupes, making it a natural to build the new bodystyle. As with other American-built Hondas, most of the major components are also locally sourced. Honda's nearby Anna, OH engine plant will ship over the V6 engines while the Russells Point facility will build the transmissions.
The Marysville plant that got motorcycle production started three decades ago is now being transformed into a consolidation center to feed parts and systems to the other nearby assembly plants. Honda has decided that it makes more sense for them to focus on building cars in America than bikes. Whether it makes sense to build this particular car anywhere, however, will be determined not on Facebook, but on dealer forecourts.
[Source: Facebook]Continue reading Honda Accord Crosstour to be built at East Liberty, Ohio plant Honda Accord Crosstour to be built at East Liberty, Ohio plant originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 11 Sep 2009 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments 
 |
| REPORT: Porsche Panamera will evade gas guzzler tax
September 11, 2009 at 11:30 am
|
| Filed under: Sedan, Performance, Porsche  2010 Porsche Panamera - Click above for high-res image gallery
As far as high-end sports cars go, the Porsche lineup is pretty fuel efficient. Light weight and six-cylinder engines usually do the trick, but those attributes don't exactly describe the new Panamera. The large, four-door Porsche comes standard with a bare minimum of 400 horsepower, and while it isn't a Biggest Loser candidate, it won't balance the scales of justice with a GT3 on the opposing dish, either.
Inside Line is reporting that the impressive size and power of the Panamera won't lead to a gas guzzler tax, citing an email from Porsche Cars North America spokesman Gary Fong that reportedly tabs fuel economy for the 4.8-liter, 400-horsepower Panamera S and 4S models at an impressive 16 mpg city and 24 mpg highway. The 500 pony Panamera Turbo will reportedly still have a respectable 15/23 rating. For comparison's sake, Maserati's rival Quattroporte GT S achieves just 12 mpg/18 highway, and it is down 66 horses on the Porsche.
Fuel economy numbers for the Panamera are surprisingly handsome, beating even some sport coupes in the $100,000+ range. Reasons for the car's remarkable fuel economy numbers include its dual clutch transmission and the inclusion of start/stop technology. The Environmental Protection Agency hasn't yet published the official fuel economy numbers for the range, so we'll just have to sit tight for now with these preliminary figures.
[Source: Inside Line]
REPORT: Porsche Panamera will evade gas guzzler tax originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 11 Sep 2009 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments 
 |
| Lotus announces first Evora race edition, Type 124 endurance car
September 11, 2009 at 11:00 am
|
| Filed under: Motorsports, Coupe, Performance, Lotus 
Lotus Evora Type 124 - click above for high-res image gallery
It's only been a week since Lotus delivered the first production Evora to a customer, and now the sports car maker has unveiled the first race-ready version of its newest model. The new Type 124 Evora is built to FIA GT racing specs and will debut next year at the Nürburgring 24 Hour race.
The Evora already has many of the basic elements needed to make a robust race car thanks to its bonded aluminum structure and mid-engine layout. But the racing version receives a revised version of the stock car's Toyota V6 cranking out over 400 horsepower, along with a new paddleshift sequential six-speed gearbox.
Even with a full roll cage and fire extinguisher system installed, the Type 124 gains about 440 lbs of "lightness" dropping the car to about 2,600 pounds. How'd that happen? Lotus has replaced the standard bodywork with lightweight composite and carbon panels that add front splitter and rear diffuser elements, along with a prominent rear wing.
That rear wing will push on a tweaked suspension system (both the four-way adjustable dampers and the anti-roll bars are tunable) and the car will run on wider 18-inch Pirelli slicks. Braking will be provided by a Bosch ABS system optimized for competition and a set of six-piston AP Racing calipers.
Lotus says it will support a factory team in 2010 and 2011 and presumably offer customer cars as well. Want to learn more? Check out the official press release after the jump and the high-res gallery below.
[Source: Lotus]
Continue reading Lotus announces first Evora race edition, Type 124 endurance car Lotus announces first Evora race edition, Type 124 endurance car originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 11 Sep 2009 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments 
 |
| Frankfurt Preview: Renault's four electric concepts from the top
September 11, 2009 at 10:29 am
|
| Filed under: Concept Cars, Frankfurt Motor Show, Coupe, Minivan/Van, Sedan, Crossover, Renault, Alternative Fuel  Renault Zero Emission teaser image - Click above to enlarge
A few months ago, Renault announced plans to bring three electric vehicles to the Frankfurt Motor Show: production versions of all-electric Megane and Kangoo, plus a new concept EV. Turns out, we're going to be treated to four all-electric concepts next week in Germany.
Details remain slim, but Renault says it will debut a new range called Renault Zero Emission next week and has released the bird's eye view teaser seen above. The most unusual shape belongs to the tiny one-seater on the left. The others look like traditional concept car goodies, full of designs that will never make it to the real world. Details in the press release below the fold.
[Source: Renault]
Continue reading Frankfurt Preview: Renault's four electric concepts from the top Frankfurt Preview: Renault's four electric concepts from the top originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 11 Sep 2009 09:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments 
 |
| Chrysler officially done building engines with Hyundai, Mitsubishi
September 11, 2009 at 10:01 am
|
| Filed under: Plants/Manufacturing, Chrysler, Hyundai, Mitsubishi 
In a terse statement issued last night, Chrysler made official what had been expected for at least a couple of weeks: The Global Engine Manufacturing Alliance is no more. Chrysler Group LLC has bought out its former partners Hyundai and Mitsubishi, and the Dundee, MI engine plant that builds Chrysler's four-cylinder engines for a variety of vehicles is now wholly owned by the company.
No buyout price was announced and the status of the engine designs was not mentioned. Presumably, the Japanese and Korean automakers which also build versions of the same engines will be allowed to continue doing so for the foreseeable future at their own manufacturing facilities. Mitsubishi uses a version of this engine in the latest versions of its Lancer, including the EVO. The Dundee plant began production in 2005.
[Source: Chrysler]Continue reading Chrysler officially done building engines with Hyundai, Mitsubishi Chrysler officially done building engines with Hyundai, Mitsubishi originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 11 Sep 2009 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments 
 |
| REPORT: Saab developing hybrid powertrain for upcoming 9-5
September 11, 2009 at 9:29 am
|
| Filed under: Hybrid, Sedan, Saab, Rumormill 
2010 Saab 9-5 sedan - Click above for high-res image gallery
We've already heard about the five engine options slated for the Saab 9-5 upon its debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show next week. Apparently, there's plenty more on the horizon in the coming years, including Saab's first production hybrid powertrain. According to Autocar, the hybrid system will match diesel fuel economy numbers while providing lower emissions and competitive performance.
It seems Saab will pair an electric motor with excellent torque characteristics right from idle with a highly-tuned 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that puts out 120 horsepower. That gasoline-fed powerplant should be able to manage good power at higher engine speeds, making for adequate overall acceleration across the rev range.
If there's any truth to this rumor, Saab is planning to use a relatively small battery pack that's not expected to power the car for long periods of time. Pricing information isn't yet known, but the Swedish automaker is said to want to undercut upcoming hybrids from its German competition.
[Source: Autocar]REPORT: Saab developing hybrid powertrain for upcoming 9-5 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 11 Sep 2009 08:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments 
 |
| |
No comments:
Post a Comment