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| McLaren MP4-12C: First batch of details and images surface
September 8, 2009 at 9:39 pm
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| Filed under: Performance, MISC  McLaren MP4-12C - Click above for an image gallery
Today's a big day for McLaren. After ambitiously launching its own separate automotive division to follow in the footsteps of arch-rival Ferrari, the British race engineering firm has finally released its long-anticipated new supercar. Called the MP4-12C, it's been developed entirely in-house, and features the latest advances in automotive technology derived from the Formula 1 circuit.
Ooh, where to start? The MP4-12C is built around an extremely light and rigid carbon fiber tub. But rather than the heavier multi-piece tubs used by its competitors and predecessors, the MP4's is made from a single piece, weighing a spritely 176 pounds). The body panels are all carbon fiber and composites, making the new McLaren more expensive to build than its competitors and resulting in an expected £160,000 ($265k) price tag - higher than either the new Ferrari 458 Italia or the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4, but lighter in weight, too.
Behind the tub sits a twin-turbo 3.8-liter V8 engine producing around 600 horsepower and 433 lb-ft of torque, offering what McLaren claims is the highest horsepower to CO2 ratio of any internal combustion engine on the market - gasoline, diesel or even hybrid. Contrary to earlier speculation that suggested Mercedes could continue furnishing its erstwhile partner with at least the engine blocks while producing its own SLS supercar and furnishing Pagani as well, McLaren says the unit was developed entirely in house. The bespoke mill features a flat-plane crank, dry sump and can rev up to 8,500 rpm, though 80% of the torque is said to be available from as low as 2,000 rpm. That ought to be good for a 0-60 time in the low threes and a 200+ mph top end.
While you might have expected carbon ceramic brakes to keep all that power and speed in check, McLaren says its conventional discs actually weigh less. They're aided by a Brake Steer system that brakes the inside rear wheel to combat understeer. But the real trick system is in the seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, where Pre-Cog lets the driver load up the next gear by half-squeezing the paddle and then engaging with gunshot speed.
With the new MP4-12C, McLaren's betting the economy will bounce back soon. It's planning on building 1000 units in 2011, a quarter of which will go each to the domestic UK market and over here to the United States. The C designation also suggests that they're planning a roadster version to join the coupe. But for now, we'll just enjoy this first batch of images in the gallery below and peruse the lengthy press release after the jump.
[Source: McLaren via CAR Magazine]
Continue reading McLaren MP4-12C: First batch of details and images surface McLaren MP4-12C: First batch of details and images surface originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Sep 2009 20:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments 
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| 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG leaks out
September 8, 2009 at 9:28 pm
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| Filed under: Frankfurt Motor Show, Coupe, Performance, Mercedes-Benz, Luxury  2010 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG - Click above for an image gallery
Despite an achingly long roll-out, the first cracks in the 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG dam have begun to appear, courtesy of CarPoint.
Due to be revealed at next week's Frankfurt Motor Show, the 300SL-inspired "Gullwing" is packing a front/mid-mounted version of the venerable 6.3-liter V8 fitted to the majority of AMG's offerings, mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox channeling 563 hp and 480 lb-ft of torque to the rear wheels. Weight is pegged at around 3,500 pounds, allowing the SLS to run from a rest to 60 in 3.7 seconds. Top speed is 197 mph and optional carbon ceramic discs should bring the party to a halt with supreme authority.
Although we've seen an endless string of spy shots of the SLS over the past year, we finally get a clear view of its upright fascia, drawn headlamps and curvaceous rump that draws a few cues from the departed McMerc and modern M-Bs.
Color choices will include Alubeam Silver, Syvanite Grey, Alanite Grey and red, complimenting the leather and alcantara interior and ten-spoke forged wheels. Production will begin in late 2010 with sales starting the following year, and early pricing suggests a €177,310 MSRP in Germany. Get your first eye-full in the gallery below before all the official details are delivered next week.
[Source: CarPoint]
2010 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG leaks out originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Sep 2009 20:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments 
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| Spanish designer's Honda RA-X concept has us intrigued
September 8, 2009 at 8:58 pm
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| Filed under: Concept Cars, Coupe, Performance, Honda 
Honda RA-X Concept by Xuacu Perez -- Click above for high-res image gallery
With the S2000 going, going, gone and sports car fans left to wait until the CR-Z arrives, some car designers have taken to creating Honda sports cars on their own. This effort is from Spaniard Xuacu Perez, who wanted to design a modern Honda that spoke to the company's Formula 1 cars from the sixties.
It's called the RA-X, the first two letters pulled from Honda's F1 nomenclature, with a direct tie being the exhaust outlets, which mimic those on the RA300 from 1967. Quite compact at just 13.3 feet long, 3.8 feet high, and 6.4 feet wide (4050 mm / 1163 mm / 1940 mm), theoretical power could be in excess of 350 hp from the mid-engined, rear-wheel drive layout.
The X in the name comes from the cross formed by the side's design elements. It's all kinds of edges and smooth bits all mixed together, with a rear end that reminds us of a slightly softer Zenvo ST1... which gets us to wondering what a small, nimble, Zenvo-by-Honda could be... And that's reason alone to justify the RA-X's existence. Hat tip to LoboSylva
[Source: Xuacu Designs]
Spanish designer's Honda RA-X concept has us intrigued originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Sep 2009 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments 
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| Is BMW poised to take the luxury sales crown from Lexus?
September 8, 2009 at 8:28 pm
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| Filed under: BMW, Lexus 2009 BMW 3-Series - Click above for high-res image gallery
Lexus has been the undisputed king of luxury automotive sales in the U.S. for the 21st century. It hasn't even been close. BMW has played second fiddle the entire decade, but through the first eight months of 2009, the German luxury car maker has made some major gains on its Japanese luxury competitor. In fact, through August only 2,293 vehicles separate BMW from becoming the new king of the mountain.
BMW's climb to the top of the sales charts comes during a sales downturn the likes of which hasn't been seen in decades, yet the Bavarian automaker has weathered the storm much better than Lexus. BMW sales are down 33,000 units versus the first eight months of 2008, a 28 percent decline. Lexus is down an amazing 40 percent through eight months, a 40,000 unit decline. BMW owes much of its momentum to the venerable 3-Series, which is down 24 percent on the year yet still handily outselling the Lexus IS and ES. Lexus is staying in the lead on the back of its perennially successful RX crossover, which is down only four percent over the year.
While BMW has plenty to be proud of in a down year, catching Lexus is no sure thing. Lexus actually bested BMW by a substantial 3,600 units in August, proof that Toyota's luxury arm is getting stronger as the year progresses. In the end, top luxury sales is only good for one thing, and that's marketing. Lexus has been number one so long that it doesn't even need to brag any more, but if BMW manages to pull out the win in 2009, we're sure there'll be more than a couple celebratory commercials.
[Source: Free Press]Is BMW poised to take the luxury sales crown from Lexus? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Sep 2009 19:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments 
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| Daily U-Turn: What you missed on 9.8.09
September 8, 2009 at 8:20 pm
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Daily U-Turn: What you missed on 9.8.09 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Sep 2009 19:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments 
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| REPORT: Subaru considering using more CVTs
September 8, 2009 at 7:58 pm
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| Filed under: Sedan, Subaru 
2010 Subaru Legacy - Click above for a high-res image gallery
The 2010 Legacy will be the most fuel efficient Subaru in the Japanese automaker's US lineup, but only when it's powered by the 2.5i boxer engine mated to a CVT transmission. According to the EPA, that powertrain returns 31 mpg on the highway, a full four mpg better than the six-speed manual. With fuel economy standards set to climb over the next decade, Subaru is going to need more mpg success stories, and more CVTs could be a big part of the equation.
Japan's Nikkei Sangyo business daily reports that Subaru will flood its product lineup with CVTs over the next two years, starting with the popular Forester and Impreza models. The CVT, which is made at Subaru's engine plant in Oizumi, will eventually be offered on all models.
While the CVT is new for larger Subarus, the company has been using the transmissions in JDM city cars since 1987. Last week, Subaru began using a CVT in its Japan market Exiga MPV, which will soon be extended to the Australian market.
[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req.]
REPORT: Subaru considering using more CVTs originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Sep 2009 18:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments 
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| Lexus at it again with tennis ball fuzz-covered IS350
September 8, 2009 at 7:28 pm
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| Filed under: Sedan, Lexus, Specialty Lexus IS350 Tennis Ball Edition - Click above for an image gallery
Andy Roddick, your new ride awaits. Lexus has followed up its golf ball-dimpled LS 460 L built to commemorate the automaker's sponsorship of the U.S. Open earlier this year with another uniquely-finished car that's got us scratching our heads. In this case, the Lexus in question is covered in tennis ball fuzz in the traditional yellow-green hue.
This fuzzy fluorescent IS350 was on display last weekend in New York City during the ongoing US Open festivities. Sorry tennis fans, we don't imagine this will be a factory option, though we do wonder if the finish could alleviate the pesky unmanned shopping carts that leave dents and scratches in our cars at the local grocery store. See? There is a practical application after all.
The boys from Kicking Tires happened to be in town while the Open was going down and they snapped off a few shots of the car in question. Take a look at a few of the shots in our gallery below and then check out Kicking Tires for the rest.
[Source: Kicking Tires]
Lexus at it again with tennis ball fuzz-covered IS350 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Sep 2009 18:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments 
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| Autoblog Podcast #144
September 8, 2009 at 7:15 pm
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| Filed under: Frankfurt Motor Show, Podcasts, Acura, Audi, Ford, Honda, Lexus, Rolls-Royce  Click above for the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes, RSS or listen now!
Episode #144 of the Autoblog Podcast is here. Chris, Sam, and Dan took some time on Labor Day to ruminate over some automotive subjects, and it wound up being another near-epic length 'cast. The Frankfurt Motor Show is coming, and on that note, we start off with the Lexus LF-Ch, expected to debut there soon. More Frankfurt anticipation is built as we talk about the Ford CMax, and then we move on to the Rolls Royce Ghost, the debacle surrounding the Honda Crosstour and social media, Time Magazine's unexciting list of exciting cars, and wrap it all up with the disparaging remarks Audi's chief directed at the Chevrolet Volt. We hit the questions before calling it a night well past the hour and a half mark. Thanks for taking the time to listen, welcome to all the new listeners who've discovered us through everyone's reviewing efforts in iTunes, thanks for the help on the survey, and as always, hit us up at Podcast at Autoblog Dot Com. See you next week, but in the meantime, check out this, or this!
Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #144 Autoblog Podcast #144 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Sep 2009 18:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments 
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09-08-09-autoblog-E144.mp3 (MP3 Audio, 1 KB)
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| 'Blue States' reportedly biggest winners in Cash For Clunkers
September 8, 2009 at 6:58 pm
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| Filed under: Etc., Government/Legal, Earnings/Financials 
In the wake of the government's Cash for Clunkers program, analysts are crunching the data to determine who benefited the most from the month-long incentive program. Interestingly enough, it appears that "Blue States" (states where the residents predominantly vote for Democrat) benefited the most. USA Today reports that the 28 states that voted for Barack Obama have requested nearly $2.13 billion in rebates. On the other hand, states that voted for John McCain (a.k.a. "Red States"), have only requested $757 million.
Political analysts are puzzled, as there is no clear-cut indicator to explain the findings. One has suggested that middle-class Americans in Blue States took advantage of the rebate, even if they weren't in the market for a new car. Another suggested that it was up to the dealers. "I know in Tennessee, dealers were pulling back, whereas in Illinois, the dealers were all gung-ho," said a democratic pollster. One significant deciding factor was credit. Mississippi (a red state) finished second from the bottom. "I'm sure there are a lot of people who would have loved to trade in, but in Mississippi, income and credit right now are the worst I've seen," said the general manager of a dealership in the state.
[Source: USA Today]'Blue States' reportedly biggest winners in Cash For Clunkers originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Sep 2009 17:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments 
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| REPORT: Mercedes-Benz may buy a stake in Brawn GP
September 8, 2009 at 6:40 pm
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| Filed under: Motorsports, Mercedes-Benz 
The Daily Telegraph reports Mercedes-Benz is considering purchainsg a stake in the Brawn GP team. The Brawn team was born out of the ashes of Honda F1 at the end of 2008 when the Japanese automaker decided to withdraw. At the time, Brawn was able to strike a deal with Mercedes for a supply of engines for 2009. Team principal Ross Brawn quickly demonstrated what his team could do by firing off a string of victories. According to the Telegraph, Mercedes actually considered buying the team as McLaren struggled.
This would come as a dramatic turnaround if the deal does come to fruition. Earlier this year, McLaren reportedly looked at following Honda out the door at the prompting of board member Helmut Lense. Now the paper reports that besides possibly buying into Brawn, the automaker could expand its engine supply to Red Bull in addition to McLaren, Brawn and Force India.
[Source: Daily Telegraph]REPORT: Mercedes-Benz may buy a stake in Brawn GP originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Sep 2009 17:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments 
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| REPORT: 'Old' Chrysler defaulting on loan obligations
September 8, 2009 at 6:20 pm
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| Filed under: Government/Legal, Chrysler, Earnings/Financials, Canada 
Before there was a Motors Liquidation Co, post-bankruptcy GM's hived-off shelter for useless assets, there was Old Carco LLC. That's the company Chrysler built to house its useless assets, and unsurprisingly, it doesn't have good news for unsecured creditors. Old Carco was left with liabilities of $20.5 billion, but has less than half of that to pay off everyone it owes.
The latest accounting says there is $2.345 billion to pay things off. With a shortfall that drastic, even the U.S. Treasury and the Canadian governments are waiting for their money, with a $3.34 billion loan and $29 million in interest going not being repaid. The Treasury sent Old Carco a notice of default last month, which strikes us as a waste of a stamp and paper.
And since Old Carco isn't allowed to borrow any more money, there is almost no chance that creditors will be made whole. At this point, as the company tries to unload leftover factories and property, it looks like the best anyone's going to get is pennies on the dollar -- or just fractions of that -- and that could be for the folks first in line. Old Carco is dead, long live Chrysler...
[Source: Detroit News | Image Source: Bill Pugliano/Getty]REPORT: 'Old' Chrysler defaulting on loan obligations originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Sep 2009 17:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments 
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| Frankfurt leakage: Fiat tweaking 500 to create the 695 Tributo Ferrari
September 8, 2009 at 5:58 pm
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| Filed under: Frankfurt Motor Show, Hatchback, Fiat 
If the 500 Abarth isn't a hot enough hatch for your tastes, Fiat is about to add some Ferrari-flavored habenero to the mix. AutoExpress released (then retracted) pics and details of the 695 Tributo Ferrari ahead of its debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show, and according to the Brit pub, the crew at Abarth have cranked the 1.4-liter turbo from the usual 135 horsepower to over 180 ponies and added paddle shifters to the six-speed gearbox to give drivers a bit more of that Ferrari feeling.
Just like its Maranello inspiration, the body shell is finished in Scuderia Red and a set of Brembo brake calipers squeeze cross-drilled rotors beneath a gorgeous set of spidery alloys. Additionally, Ferrari was reportedly tapped to re-tune the suspension to help keep things under control. No word on how many of these beasties will get built, but they should be a hoot if they make it to dealers.
[Source: AutoExpress]Frankfurt leakage: Fiat tweaking 500 to create the 695 Tributo Ferrari originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Sep 2009 16:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments 
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| EMC Flash truck unveiled: 40 miles of electric power in a F-150 body for $50,000
September 8, 2009 at 5:28 pm
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| Filed under: Truck, Alternative Fuel
Electric Motors Corporation has been working on upgrading Ford F-150 trucks with more advanced powertrains for a while now. The company's drives incorporate PML-Hi-Pa electric motor technology and were in the F-150 that was at SEMA last year (see more here). But EMC has bigger plans, including a pair of plug-in serial hybrid trucks, called Flash and Thunderbolt, that it hopes to start building next year. The company took the wraps off of the Flash prototype at its Wakarusa, Indiana headquarters over the weekend during the Green Jobs for America Exposition.
Pickuptrucks.com's Mike Levine snapped some images of the new and unconventional vehicle and got the story from EMC CEO Wil Cashen about the two-truck project. The Flash has lithium-ion batteries that will be able to drive for 40, 100 or 250 miles, depending on which option the buyer chooses. All versions use a 1.2-liter gas engine as a range extender. The electric motor and powertrain should be enough to to tow 5,700 pounds and cary 1,940 pounds, but won't be able to go off-road. Price: under $50,000 for the base model before a potential federal tax credit of $7,500. The Thunderbolt will be even more powerful and is intended to serve as a power source at work sites and have built-in WiFi.
Cashen described his company's methods as Tesla-like, saying, "It's an electric truck with an onboard range-extender generator system. We've taken an F-150 and have done something similar to Tesla, where they used a Lotus sports car for the underpinnings of their electric car. We're using an American-made vehicle for [the underpinnings] of our truck." There's a video of Cashen speaking about his company on Indiana Business after the jump.
[Source: EMC, Pickuptrucks.com]
Continue reading EMC Flash truck unveiled: 40 miles of electric power in a F-150 body for $50,000 EMC Flash truck unveiled: 40 miles of electric power in a F-150 body for $50,000 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Sep 2009 16:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments 
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| REPORT: Danica Patrick to drive NASCAR in 2010, remain with IndyCar Series
September 8, 2009 at 4:56 pm
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| Filed under: Motorsports, Hirings/Firings/Layoffs, Celebrities  Danica Patrick's SI Swimsuit Issue photo shoot - Click above for high-res image gallery
The rumors were apparently true. According to ESPN, IndyCar driver - and, without a doubt our favorite Go Daddy spokesmodel - Danica Patrick will "all but certainly" take part in NASCAR racing next year. It seems Patrick will be limiting her exposure to the Nationwide Series and Truck series and will continue to race the full IndyCar schedule for Andretti Green Racing.
If ESPN's sources are accurate, Danica will join Stewart Haas Racing and partner up with Tony Stewart, who will serve as her mentor in the sport. Stewart enjoyed a successful career in open wheel racing before switching to stock cars. As you might expect, the top female driver here in the States shouldn't have an issue with sponsorship money and the move could provide just the ratings boost NASCAR sorely needs.
[Source: ESPN]
REPORT: Danica Patrick to drive NASCAR in 2010, remain with IndyCar Series originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Sep 2009 15:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments 
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| Honda to launch first-ever dual clutch gearbox for motorcycles with new VFR
September 8, 2009 at 4:33 pm
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| Filed under: Technology, Honda, Motorcycle 
Honda Dual Clutch Transmission - Click above to enlarge
When Honda's upcoming VFR1200 hits the American and European markets in 2010, the new sports tourer will be equipped with the first dual clutch transmission designed for the two-wheeled market. Like the highly-regarded DSG transmissions from Volkswagen and Audi, two separate clutches inside the gearbox act on the even gears (two, four and six) and the odd gears (one, three and five).
Honda promises both improved performance and efficiency from the dual clutch design. Three operating modes can be selected from the gearbox: D-Mode when regular automatic operation is desired, S-Mode for sportier performance and a fully manual mode that works just like a traditional six-speed sequential manual gearbox.
Though the transmission will debut on the new VFR, Honda says the technology can be applied to existing engines and platforms already in Honda sportbike lineup. We can't say for sure what "traditional markets" Honda is referring to, but we're thinking there's a decent chance a dual clutch box could soon make an appearance in the CBR line. As for Honda's automobile offerings? Not quite yet. Hit the jump for the press release.
Continue reading Honda to launch first-ever dual clutch gearbox for motorcycles with new VFR Honda to launch first-ever dual clutch gearbox for motorcycles with new VFR originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Sep 2009 15:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments 
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| VIDEO: Another reason to watch rallying: Burcu Cetinkaya
September 8, 2009 at 3:58 pm
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| Filed under: Motorsports, Videos, Opel, Skoda  2008 Castrol Fiesta Sporting Trophy winner Burcu Centikaya - click the image above to view the video after the jump
Move over Sabine Schmitz. It's been nice, but looks like us gross internet troll types have a new hot-shoed hottie to leer and drool over. Meet Burcu Cetinkaya. She's 28-years-old and she's a rally driver. First of all, Burcu starts of by explaining that her dream car at 18 was an Opel Clibra 4x4. That's not exactly normal teenage girl thinking. Of course, Burcu admits to crashing the Calibra several times, but only because she was "trying to go so fast with it." We can respect that. And there's actually some fairly gnarly footage of her crashing a rally car in the 2008 Ypres rally in Belgium. But, Burcu explains, the tires were cold and professionally she's only crashed twice, which is quite low actually for a rally driver.
Halfway through the video, Burcu winds up in Austria where she gets to test out the new to her Skoda Fabia Super 2000. Not surprisingly, her coach (Raimund Baumschlager) feels she has the stuff to make it into WRC, explaining, "You teach a little bit, you tell her something and immediately she does the right thing. I think this is the most important thing for a rally driver." Also of note, Burcu admits to idolizing Michelle Mouton, the legendary Audi Pikes Peak driver and modern day glass ceiling smasher for female racecar drivers. And just because we're a bunch of dudes, if you think Burcu is attractive for a racer, just wait until you meet her co-driver, Cicek Guney. Full video, after the jump.
[Source: Axis of Oversteer]
Continue reading VIDEO: Another reason to watch rallying: Burcu Cetinkaya VIDEO: Another reason to watch rallying: Burcu Cetinkaya originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Sep 2009 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments 
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| Fisker announces fuel economy estimate for Karma - 67.2 mpg and CO2 emissions of just 83 g/km
September 8, 2009 at 3:29 pm
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| Filed under: Hybrid, Sedan, Fisker, Luxury 
Fisker Karma - Click above for high-res image gallery
The miles per gallon rating of a vehicle that can get energy from an electrical outlet is a difficult thing to accurately calculate and get the public to accept. Just ask AFS Trinity, with their "150 mpg" SUVs, or GM with its 230 mpg number for the Chevy Volt. Still, it's valuable to have some sort of number to compare vehicles against one another, and Fisker Automotive has released the first such numbers for its Karma plug-in luxury hybrid: 3.5 liters per 100 kilometers (equivalent to 67.2 mpg U.S.) and CO2 emissions of just 83 grams per kilometer.
Fisker is basing these numbers on SAE methodology for measuring emissions for PHEVs. We're trying to confirm this with Fisker, but we think this means the J1711 methodology, about which you can read more here or in this PDF. (UPDATE: It's actually J2841) In any case, Fisker says that the Karma's CO2 emissions will be, on average, "less than that of today's cleanest production cars and 75 percent less than that of competing vehicles." If the company meets its ambitious goal of selling 15,000 Karmas a year starting when it goes on sale next year and then through 2016, they estimate that 248 million gallons of gasoline will be saved.
[Source: Fisker]
Continue reading Fisker announces fuel economy estimate for Karma - 67.2 mpg and CO2 emissions of just 83 g/km Fisker announces fuel economy estimate for Karma - 67.2 mpg and CO2 emissions of just 83 g/km originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Sep 2009 14:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments 
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| Ludacris gives away 20 used cars and free gas to struggling contest winners
September 8, 2009 at 3:01 pm
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| Filed under: Etc., Celebrities  If you're like us, when you think Ludacris, you think bad acting (Darius Parker on Law and Order SVU) and fantastic rapping. Fo' rizzle, Area Codes needs a special recognition Grammy. It's that brilliant. However, when you think Ludacris, you don't think "philanthropist." But you should. Not only does Chris "Ludacris" Bridges head up The Ludacris Foundation (TLF), but that same foundation just held the Metro Atlanta Ludacris Stimulus Package which sought essays from licensed Georgia residents in need of a car. Thousands of essays were submitted and on September 6, TLF held an event called, "Stars for Cars - The LudaDay Giveaway" where twenty winners were handed the keys to their new(ish) cars.
Says the Illinois-born rapper, "People are getting laid off and now are looking for jobs. To be efficient, you need some transportation of your own to get there. That's why I wanted to give back to those who need it." The cars come with free gas for 30 days, although the contest winners are responsible for tags, registration, tax and insurance. Sounds like a good deal to us. Especially as the winners didn't get previously owned Chevettes. Ludacris partnered with a Nissan dealer to supply the used cars and at least one winner got a Maxima.
One of the more moving essay winners was from a man named Mading Duor who described how his mother, father and five brothers and sisters were killed in Sudan. Not only that, but after moving to Atlanta, Duor's son was killed by a drunk driver. Said Ludacris, "His story touched my heart. He's endured so much in his life and he's still here standing. I'm very proud to have helped him."
Thanks for the tip, Wes!
[Source: The Associated Press | Image: AP Photo/Paul Abell]Ludacris gives away 20 used cars and free gas to struggling contest winners originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Sep 2009 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments 
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| Frankfurt Preview: In lieu of warp drive, Brabus drops 750 HP under SV12 R's hood
September 8, 2009 at 2:29 pm
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| Filed under: Aftermarket, Frankfurt Motor Show, Sedan, Performance, Europe, Mercedes-Benz, Luxury 
BRABUS SV12 R - Click above for high-res image gallery
When Brabus one day announces that they've developed a G-Wagen that can simply teleport from place to place, we won't be the least bit surprised. After all, getting there faster is the company's mission, and the Mercedes-Benzes it works its black magic on are certainly capable of that. Take, for instance, the latest ride to emerge from the skunkworks in Bottrop: the S600-based SV12 R.
The Brabus SV12 R is a car for drivers who feel that the 612-horsepower S65 AMG is lacking underhood. Fret-not, deep-pocketed speed freaks: Brabus has your back. The SV12 R features a 6.3-liter twin-turbo V12 that shovels out 750 horses and a completely insane 995 lb-ft of torque. How do we know it's insane? Because the Brabus folks - who aren't exactly shrinking violets when it comes to the gonzo power numbers - electronically cap it at 811 lb-ft to protect the transmission. (Somewhere in Germany, there must be a shady character named Klaus with a flash tuner doing back-alley torque liberations.) Regardless, that much twist going to the rear wheels ought to put you on a first-name basis with your local tire retailer, as you're likely to be in there every 45 minutes or so for new rubber. Brabus says that zero to 60 takes just four seconds, and that the SV12 R's top speed is an electronically-limited 211 mph.
What else? The de rigeur aero kit is in play, as are a variety of wheel designs for maximum curb appeal. Inside, the car can be outfitted with "BRABUS Yachting precious-wood" accents and a fully-equipped backseat office, allowing you to finalize that corporate takeover PowerPoint deck while your retired DTM-racer chauffeur breaks every traffic law ever written in a bid to get you to your meeting on time. The car will make its debut later this month at the Frankfurt Motor Show. For more, check out the high-res image gallery below, and follow the jump for the lengthy press release.
[Source: Brabus]Continue reading Frankfurt Preview: In lieu of warp drive, Brabus drops 750 HP under SV12 R's hood Frankfurt Preview: In lieu of warp drive, Brabus drops 750 HP under SV12 R's hood originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Sep 2009 13:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments 
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| Circuit Logic: Mazda captures Laguna Seca on Google Street View
September 8, 2009 at 2:00 pm
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| Filed under: Motorsports, Technology, Mazda
Looking for a corkscrew? If it's a bottle of wine you're looking to open, we're afraid we can't help you there, pal. But if you want to take an interactive look at one of America's best race tracks, Mazda and Google have come to the rescue.
The Japanese automaker has captured the Laguna Seca race track (which it sponsors) from every which angle and placed it on Google Street View, making it the first circuit available on the online service. The interactive feature allows you to check out the track from start to finish, Andretti hairpin to the famous Corkscrew downhill kink, all from the comfort of your own home. In fact, we've placed the widget together with the press release right after the jump for your convenience, along with a brace of high-resolution images in the gallery below.
[Source: Mazda]Continue reading Circuit Logic: Mazda captures Laguna Seca on Google Street View Circuit Logic: Mazda captures Laguna Seca on Google Street View originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Sep 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments 
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| Refreshed Volvo C30 peeks out ahead of Frankfurt
September 8, 2009 at 1:31 pm
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| Filed under: Frankfurt Motor Show, Coupe, Hatchback, Volvo  2010 Volvo C30 - Click above for high-res image gallery
As expected, Volvo will do the nip tuck on its entry-level model, the C30 hatchback, for the 2010 model year. The first official pictures and an accompanying press release have just been unleashed ahead of the car's upcoming debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show, and, not surprisingly, the updates focus mainly on the front and rear fascias and closely mirror the modifications made to the C70 hardtop convertible.
Up front, an interesting mixture of sharp angles and creases join organic shapes and headlamps that are stretched well back into the fenders. Prominent badging puts Volvo's iron mark front and center in the shapely new grille. At the rear, the brand name is spelled out in larger script on the C30's trademark glass hatchback.
Besides the refreshed appearance, the 2010 C30 will also sport a bevy of new color options, including an Espresso/Blond interior combination. Chassis mods start and end with an available Sports package that lowers the car by 10 millimeters, adds stiffer bushings, dampers and stabilizer bars and a quicker steering ratio. Want more? Check out our gallery below and hit the jump for the U.K. press release.
[Source: Volvo]
Continue reading Refreshed Volvo C30 peeks out ahead of Frankfurt Refreshed Volvo C30 peeks out ahead of Frankfurt originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Sep 2009 12:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments 
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| First Drive: 2010 Shelby Super Snake as good as a Ford Mustang gets
September 8, 2009 at 12:57 pm
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| Filed under: Coupe, Performance, Ford, First Drive  2010 Shelby Super Snake - Click above for high-res image gallery
In just under ten months, this blogger has gone from not having been inside a Mustang in 13 years (and a used one at that), to driving, in this order, a 2010 Mustang GT, a Mustang GT with the Track Pack, a Shelby GT500 Mustang and a Roush 427R. That sequence also defines our order of favorites; every successive steed has made us say "We have a new favorite!" In Monterey, we were handed the keys to the brand new 750-horsepower Shelby GT500 Super Snake, and when we gave them back we not only said: "We have a new favorite," we declared "All hail, we have a new king!"
Photos copyright (C)2009 Jonathon Ramsey / Weblogs, Inc.Continue reading First Drive: 2010 Shelby Super Snake as good as a Ford Mustang gets First Drive: 2010 Shelby Super Snake as good as a Ford Mustang gets originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Sep 2009 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments 
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| Reader Spy: 2010 Honda Accord Crosstour caught out again
September 8, 2009 at 12:30 pm
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| Filed under: Spy Photos, Wagon, Crossover, Hatchback, Honda 
2010 Honda Accord Crosstour spy photos - Click above for a high-res image gallery
Reader Jackson De Oliviera dropped us a line this weekend to let us know he caught the highly-controversial Honda Accord Crosstour out in the wild and had posted the shots he took on his blog, DriveToEscape.com. Jackson was kind enough to allow us to reprint those photos in our gallery below. In short, Jackson's pics probably aren't about to change any minds regarding the Crosstour's looks.
In its coverage of the ongoing Crosstour Facebook debacle, Automotive News (posting to CNET's CarTech blog) notes the open revulsion the car has been met with on Honda's dedicated Facebook page, as well as in the comment sections of blogs like the one you're reading right now. AN also repeats the hastily-assembled Honda PR narrative that the negative reaction of "enthusiasts" is to be expected, and that market research indicates that the Crosstour will fare well with the "crossover intenders" that Honda views as the image buyers for the car.
This may well turn out to be true, but it wasn't so long ago that Honda's styling once had an inherent, universal appeal - to enthusiasts and casual observers alike. That, however, has given way to a stream of increasingly polarizing designs culminating with the Accord Crosstour. Polarizing can sell; just ask BMW. But judging by the peanut gallery's comments and many of our staffers murmurings over here, we'll take Honda's old-style elegance and understatement over seemingly forced weirdness any day. Designing the Crosstour specifically for "crossover intenders" may deliver a vehicle that niche buyer will happily pay for, but it all remains to be seen.
Photos Copyright (C)2009 Jackson De Oliviera/DriveTo Escape.com. Used with permission.
[Source: CNET.com | Images: Drive To Escape]Reader Spy: 2010 Honda Accord Crosstour caught out again originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Sep 2009 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments 
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| Frankfurt Preview: Peugeot iOn is French for "Mitsubishi iMiEV"
September 8, 2009 at 11:58 am
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| Filed under: Frankfurt Motor Show, Hatchback, Mitsubishi, Peugeot, Alternative Fuel 
Peugeot iOn electric vehicle - Click above for high-res image
Mitsubishi and Peugeot aren't exactly strangers to each other. Remember, for example, that the current Peugeot 4007 SUV is just a reskinned Mitsubishi Outlander. Apparently, that collaboration has worked out well so far, because the two are planning a new project together, only this one figures to be a lot "greener," as it involves the introduction of the Peugeot iOn in Frankfurt. If the iOn pictured above looks familiar, that's because it's simply the Mitsubishi iMiEV sporting Peugeot's lion badge in front. The French carmaker plans to launch the lithium ion battery-powered electric kei car in Europe at the end of 2010.
With 64 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of instantaneously available torque, Pug officials say the iOn's range will be 130 km (approx. 80 miles) on a full charge. Plugging the car into a conventional 220V outlet will give it a full recharge in six hours. A fast-charger system will also be available, and Peugeot says that it will allow the urban runabout to be charged to 80% capacity in jst 30 minutes. Will Europeans discover that they have a taste for electric-flavored jellybeans? We certainly enjoyed the Mitsubishi version when we drove it, and we'll have live coverage of the car's reception at the Frankfurt Motor Show later this month. You can check out a high-res version of the image above by clicking on it, or the official press release after the jump.
[Source: Peugeot]Continue reading Frankfurt Preview: Peugeot iOn is French for "Mitsubishi iMiEV" Frankfurt Preview: Peugeot iOn is French for "Mitsubishi iMiEV" originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Sep 2009 10:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments 
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| Nearly 12,000 Volvo S80, XC60, and XC70 models recalled over stall concerns
September 8, 2009 at 11:30 am
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| Filed under: Government/Legal, Recalls, Safety, Volvo 
2010 Volvo XC60 - Click above for high-res image gallery
A software glitch is responsible for 11,993 Volvo models being recalled by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The campaign includes model year 2008-2010 S80 models, 2010 S60 models, 2009-2010 XC70 models, and the 2010 XC60, all running faulty software in their central electronic modules (CEM). According to NHTSA, the signal from the CEM may fail to reach the fuel pump electronic module (PEM), inhibiting the fuel from reaching the engine even as the vehicle's throttle is depressed.
Normally, this would just result in an engine that fails to start. However, residual pressure in the system may allow the vehicles in question to drive a short distance before the engine quits... and if the vehicle stalls in certain conditions, a crash could occur. Affected owners are asked to contact NHTSA (888-327-4236 ) or Volvo (800-458-1552), to see if their vehicle requires a free software update to remedy the problem. Full press release after the jump.
[Source: NHTSA]Continue reading Nearly 12,000 Volvo S80, XC60, and XC70 models recalled over stall concerns Nearly 12,000 Volvo S80, XC60, and XC70 models recalled over stall concerns originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Sep 2009 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments 
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| Ferdinand Porsche or an Unknown Jew? New book documents the father of the Volkswagen Beetle
September 8, 2009 at 11:00 am
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| Filed under: Porsche, Volkswagen, Design/Style  We all know the story of the Volkswagen Beetle: In his vision to motorize Germany, Adolf Hitler wanted a "People's Car" of sound design and quality to transport the subjects of his Third Reich around an expanding empire. The Beetle became that car. It made automotive and world history, two of Germany's biggest automakers and Ferdinand Porsche's career. But was it really his design as history recorded? New evidence suggests otherwise.
According to Dutch author and historian Paul Schilperoord in his new book Het Ware Verhaal van de Kever ("The True Story of the Beetle"), Porsche may have taken the credit for a design from a Jewish engineer named Josef Ganz (pictured right). The Hungarian-born engineer and automotive journalist had a revolutionary idea for a new type of car which he called the Maikäfer (May Beetle), characterized by an engine mounted behind the cabin, an independent suspension and a smaller, more streamlined shape than the bloated cars that existed at the time.
The design was credited by many as the precursor to the Volkswagen Beetle, but without the financial backing to build his car, Ganz began publishing articles calling for a revolution in car design. According to Schilperoord, Antisemitic laws in Nazi Germany made him an easy target for the established automakers who viewed him as a threat, eventually leading to his arrest by the Gestapo on trumped-up blackmail charges. Ganz was eventually released and tried in vein to build his car in Switzerland, only for the Swiss government to try and steal his design themselves. Enamored of its originality, Hitler allegedly charged Porsche with building the car instead, giving no credit to its Jewish parentage.
After years of legal battles, Ganz moved to Australia where he worked for Holden and eventually died poor and in relative obscurity. Although his name remained known for generations by car designers and engineers, Schilperoord's new book is the first major publication tell the story. The publisher is currently in negotiations to produce documentary films based on the book in several languages, so stay tuned. Thanks to Peter for the tip!
[Source: Ganz-Volkswagen.org and AD.nl Autowereld - translated]Ferdinand Porsche or an Unknown Jew? New book documents the father of the Volkswagen Beetle originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Sep 2009 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments 
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| REPORT: GM will no longer allow fleet buyers to skip out on side curtain airbags
September 8, 2009 at 10:30 am
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| Filed under: Government/Legal, Safety, GM 
Little known fact: fleet customers could receive a $145 discount by opting not to have side airbags in certain vehicles from General Motors. That doesn't sound like a lot of money, but when, for example, Enterprise Rent-A-Car purchased 66,000 Chevy Impalas sans curtains, the company saved nearly $10 million. It's not like omitting side curtain airbags is illegal, either, as the safety equipment isn't mandatory. Further, similar vehicles from other OEMS don't have side airbags as standard equipment.
Safety advocates and many customers had a problem with the practice, though, as the vehicles would enter the used car market without the safety tech and some less scrupulous dealers were advertising the ex-rental vehicles as having the air bags intact.
GM had offered the discounts on 2006-2009 model vehicles, but The General has decided to stop the practice beginning with the 2010 model year. General Motors has also taken steps to ensure that customers know they're not getting side curtain airbags on older vehicles coming off fleet duty. The Detroit, MI based-automaker has modified its GM Certified website so that when dealers print out the window sticker on affected models, the correct information is displayed. GM has also notified companies like AutoTrader and Cars.com that the airbags weren't standard on some fleet vehicles. Dealers with certified used vehicles were also notified via phone to place the correct sticker windows on affected vehicles. GM estimates that over 200,000 vehicles were sold to fleets without side curtain airbags.
[Source: Detroit News]REPORT: GM will no longer allow fleet buyers to skip out on side curtain airbags originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Sep 2009 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments 
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| Will Chrysler get Fiat Ducato or Iveco Daily to replace departing Sprinter?
September 8, 2009 at 9:59 am
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| Filed under: Minivan/Van, Work, Chrysler, Dodge, Mercedes-Benz, Fiat, Specialty  Fiat Ducato - Click above for high-res image gallery
Easy come, easy go - that's apparently Chrysler's luck with repurposed European-market work trucks. For the last few years, Chrysler has offered the German-designed Sprinter van under the Dodge nameplate. Mercedes-Benz wants its rig back, so it's taking the well-regarded work vehicle out of Pentastar dealerships and anointing about 120 of its own dealerships as Sprinter outlets. Consider it more terms of Chrysler's divorce from its one-time masters.
Now that Chrysler's ownership has moved south to Italy's Fiat, the Euro-work-truck hole in the showroom may be filled by something from the new management's portfolio. The Iveco Daily from Fiat's work truck division might easily fill the Sprinter's void. About the same size as the full-length Sprinter, the Daily might be a little too much for buyers considering the shorter versions of the captive Daimler. Fiat's Ducato might be a better fit, offering the tall format that Sprinter buyers have found useful without being quite as large at the Iveco.
If either truck heads this way to fill the void, it will not be badged as a Fiat. Gualberto Ranieri, Chrysler's Senior Vice President of Communications, has asserted that "the only Fiat vehicle in North America will be the Fiat 500. Period."
[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req'd]
Will Chrysler get Fiat Ducato or Iveco Daily to replace departing Sprinter? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Sep 2009 08:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments 
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| Citroën teases a modern 2CV ahead of Frankfurt debut
September 8, 2009 at 9:26 am
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| Filed under: Concept Cars, Frankfurt Motor Show, Hatchback, Citroen  Citroën Frankfurt teaser - Click above to view in high-resolution
If the show won't come to France, then France will go to the show. So while it may be Frankfurt's turn to host the alternating European car show this year while Paris sits this one out, that doesn't mean that French automakers haven't got a few tricks up their sleeves. Although we're still waiting to see what Bugatti has got in store for the Frankfurt show, Renault is coming with three new electric vehicles, Peugeot's using the venue to unveil the new 3008 HYBrid, 5008 and 308 RCZ, and Citroën has got the new C3 and its premium counterpart DS3 to show off. But the chevron-emblazoned PSA auto division has just released a teaser shot of yet another vehicle on the docket for unveiling in Frankfurt, and it could be the most interesting of them all.
Not much in the way of information accompanies the teaser you see above, but reports suggest this could be a new C1 or C2 hatchback. Bearing ties to the original, iconic 2CV that put Citroën on the map, the new show car isn't expected to form part of any other Citroen project currently under way, so we'll have to wait until the show to find out more. Check out a higher-res version of the image above by clicking on it, as well as the super short press statement available after the jump.
[Source: Citroën]Continue reading Citroën teases a modern 2CV ahead of Frankfurt debut Citroën teases a modern 2CV ahead of Frankfurt debut originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Sep 2009 08:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments 
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| Frankfurt Preview: Reva to show next-gen EVs, remote wireless charging?
September 8, 2009 at 8:58 am
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| Filed under: Frankfurt Motor Show, Technology, Hatchback, India, Alternative Fuel 
Reva, the Indian company that builds Jeremy Clarkson's favorite car, the G-Wiz, is preparing for its second act next week at the Frankfurt Motor Show. The company will unveil two new upcoming models and a new charging technology. The first of the new models is the NXR, and it is billed as a four seat hatchback "family car." Judging from the image above, it will have to be a very small family since the NXR doesn't look any bigger than the "four seat" G-Wiz.
The second model is a two seat removable roof sportster called the NXG. The NXR is due to launch in various world markets for 2010 while the NXG should arrive a year later.
The new technology that Reva will announce is called REVive. The company claims that this will address range anxiety by allowing customers to call or text Reva for "instant remote recharge." We're not sure how this will work, but given the trouble that AT&T has had just sending picture messages to iPhones, we'll be curious to see how Reva manages to send enough electrons to keep a car going without a plug. Let's just say we're not holding our breath on this one. Check out the complete press release after the jump, and thanks to throwback for the tip!
[Source: Reva]Continue reading Frankfurt Preview: Reva to show next-gen EVs, remote wireless charging? Frankfurt Preview: Reva to show next-gen EVs, remote wireless charging? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Sep 2009 07:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments 
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| Bourdais gets his groove back in Superleague Formula
September 8, 2009 at 8:30 am
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| Filed under: Motorsports, Hirings/Firings/Layoffs 
Sebastien Bourdais may not have made a go of it in Formula One, but after winning the Champ Car World Series four years in a row and coming in second at Le Mans two years running, the Le Mans native clearly has plenty to offer. Between the lower formulas, touring cars, sports car racing and countless other forms of motorsport, there's probably more options for a failed F1 driver today than there ever has been before. So where did the French driver end up? Superleague Formula.
While we've seen this racing series around before, it's never really registered all that large on our radar screens. In a rather unusual cross-discipline sports initiative, the idea behind the Superleague Formula is to have teams representing the biggest soccer squads in Europe face off against each other on racing circuits using identical single-seater racers. Panoz DP09 chassis running 750-horsepower 4.2-liter V12s with six-speed sequential gearboxes and slick tires, to be precise. And while it may seem more like a publicity stunt than anything else, it has attracted a handful of former F1 drivers - including Robert Doornbos, Antônio Pizzonia and Giorgio Pantano - and has now snagged Bourdais.
The once promising French driver made his race debut this weekend for the Sevilla team at Estoril in neighboring Portugal, and won on his first time out. Not too shabby. Bourdais will, of course, be trying to find his way back into an F1 race seat, but in the meantime, football fans may want to hold him down for a while longer.
[Source: Superleague Formula]
Bourdais gets his groove back in Superleague Formula originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Sep 2009 07:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments 
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