Autoblog: News Thread
- Thread starter monkeyboy
- Start date
Kam
Just Call Me Keith
There's an article on PH at the moment. Sure it said that the Ultima GTR720 has already unofficially been around the TG track in 1:12 but that was not driven by the Stig. TG still won't allow the Ultima to do an official flying lap.
Ultima want to use there GTR800 for the attempt.
Ultima want to use there GTR800 for the attempt.
Stuart
Godzilla
This is what I have been saying.
Ferrari are going to get lighter (and maybe smaller).
They are going to go after greater efficiency. The mpg is much worse than Porsche at the moment.
I think the idea that the F430 replacement will just have a bigger engine with 550 bhp is wide of the mark. As I mentioned.
Ferrari are going to get lighter (and maybe smaller).
They are going to go after greater efficiency. The mpg is much worse than Porsche at the moment.
I think the idea that the F430 replacement will just have a bigger engine with 550 bhp is wide of the mark. As I mentioned.
Autoblog: Detroit 2007 Preview: Chrysler ecoVoyager Concept
Filed under: Concept Cars, Detroit Auto Show, Sedans/Saloons, Chrysler
click above image for more views of the Chrysler evoVoyager Concept
Chrysler has released sketches today of three eco-minded concepts it will be unveiling at the 2008 Detroit Auto Show in January, and the first we'll tell you about is the Chrysler ecoVoyager Concept. The ecoVoyager Concept appears to be a series hybrid, much like the Chevy Volt or Ford Airstream Concept, that uses a lithium-ion battery pack for jaunts of 40 miles or less and a hydrogen fuel-cell range extender to reach distances up to 300 miles away. Power is expected to be in the range of 200 kW total, which Chrysler claims is good for reach 60 mph in around eight seconds. The exterior features an extreme cab forward design creating an arch profile with flowing character lines coming from the front and back that intersect on the sides. The interior design is described as being like a luxury jet, though no images of the concept's innards have been released yet. We'll have to wait until we meet the ecoVoyager Concept in person come January to tell you more, but for now gaze upon Chrysler's first of three concepts that's slated for introduction on the biggest stage of the year.
[Source: Chrysler]
Gallery: Chrysler ecoVoyager Concept
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Filed under: Concept Cars, Detroit Auto Show, Sedans/Saloons, Chrysler
click above image for more views of the Chrysler evoVoyager Concept
Chrysler has released sketches today of three eco-minded concepts it will be unveiling at the 2008 Detroit Auto Show in January, and the first we'll tell you about is the Chrysler ecoVoyager Concept. The ecoVoyager Concept appears to be a series hybrid, much like the Chevy Volt or Ford Airstream Concept, that uses a lithium-ion battery pack for jaunts of 40 miles or less and a hydrogen fuel-cell range extender to reach distances up to 300 miles away. Power is expected to be in the range of 200 kW total, which Chrysler claims is good for reach 60 mph in around eight seconds. The exterior features an extreme cab forward design creating an arch profile with flowing character lines coming from the front and back that intersect on the sides. The interior design is described as being like a luxury jet, though no images of the concept's innards have been released yet. We'll have to wait until we meet the ecoVoyager Concept in person come January to tell you more, but for now gaze upon Chrysler's first of three concepts that's slated for introduction on the biggest stage of the year.
[Source: Chrysler]
Gallery: Chrysler ecoVoyager Concept
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Autoblog: Alonso to announce today, Ghosn throws wrench into the works
Filed under: Motorsports, Hirings/Firings, Renault
The motorsport press is reporting that Fernando Alonso will announce sometime today whose car he will be driving next season. The two-time world champion was recently released from his contract with McLaren-Mercedes, with whom he had a very tumultuous last season. Rumors have been circulating the paddock as to where he'd be heading as a newly free agent, but Flavio Briatore, his former boss at Renault, has made no secret of the door he's left open and the light he's left on for Alonso to come back home.
Briatore's plans, however, could be stalled by an unexpected intervention from his boss, Carlos Ghosn. Although the Renault-Nissan CEO rarely appears to stick his nose into the day-to-day running of the racing team, sources quote him as saying Renault would not give Alonso a one-year ride. The champion has stated that he'd only sign with Renault for a single season, fueling speculation that he could be headed to Ferrari in 2009, despite Kimi Raikkonen and Felipe Massa doing a great job for the Scuderia and being under contract through 2009 and 2010, respectively.
Briatore is reportedly eager to accept Alonso's terms, but according to Ghosn, "It's three years or nothing." Stay tuned for more news.
[Source: F1-Live.com]
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Filed under: Motorsports, Hirings/Firings, Renault
The motorsport press is reporting that Fernando Alonso will announce sometime today whose car he will be driving next season. The two-time world champion was recently released from his contract with McLaren-Mercedes, with whom he had a very tumultuous last season. Rumors have been circulating the paddock as to where he'd be heading as a newly free agent, but Flavio Briatore, his former boss at Renault, has made no secret of the door he's left open and the light he's left on for Alonso to come back home.Briatore's plans, however, could be stalled by an unexpected intervention from his boss, Carlos Ghosn. Although the Renault-Nissan CEO rarely appears to stick his nose into the day-to-day running of the racing team, sources quote him as saying Renault would not give Alonso a one-year ride. The champion has stated that he'd only sign with Renault for a single season, fueling speculation that he could be headed to Ferrari in 2009, despite Kimi Raikkonen and Felipe Massa doing a great job for the Scuderia and being under contract through 2009 and 2010, respectively.
Briatore is reportedly eager to accept Alonso's terms, but according to Ghosn, "It's three years or nothing." Stay tuned for more news.
[Source: F1-Live.com]
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Autoblog: Guangzhou 2007: Live shots of Mazda2 and Ford Verve sedans
Filed under: Concept Cars, Sedans/Saloons, China, Ford, Mazda, Misc. Auto Shows
click either image to view high-res galleries
The ever increasing importance of the Chinese auto market is on full display this week at the 2007 Guangzhou Motor Show, and fortunately we have the Autoblog Chinese crew pounding the show floor as we speak. You can check out their coverage here (translated courtesy of Google), although for those not fluent in Chinese (like us) you'll have settle for looking at all the pretty pictures. Yesterday we told you about the debut of both the Mazda2 sedan and Ford Verve Sedan Concept at the Guangzhou show, and today we have live shots from the show floor courtesy of Autoblog Chinese. Technically these two cars are very much related, as the Verve concept is expected to inspire a production car of the same name that will be sold in the U.S. and markets abroad. That new small car will be based on the same platform as the Mazda2, and after the strong showing of four-doors in China this week, we bet a sedan version of the production Verve is certainly being planned alongside a three-door hatch. Click any image below to view either gallery of high-res shots taken from the floor of the 2007 Guangzhou Motor Show.
Gallery: Mazda2 Sedan
Gallery: Ford Verve Sedan Concept
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Filed under: Concept Cars, Sedans/Saloons, China, Ford, Mazda, Misc. Auto Shows
click either image to view high-res galleries
The ever increasing importance of the Chinese auto market is on full display this week at the 2007 Guangzhou Motor Show, and fortunately we have the Autoblog Chinese crew pounding the show floor as we speak. You can check out their coverage here (translated courtesy of Google), although for those not fluent in Chinese (like us) you'll have settle for looking at all the pretty pictures. Yesterday we told you about the debut of both the Mazda2 sedan and Ford Verve Sedan Concept at the Guangzhou show, and today we have live shots from the show floor courtesy of Autoblog Chinese. Technically these two cars are very much related, as the Verve concept is expected to inspire a production car of the same name that will be sold in the U.S. and markets abroad. That new small car will be based on the same platform as the Mazda2, and after the strong showing of four-doors in China this week, we bet a sedan version of the production Verve is certainly being planned alongside a three-door hatch. Click any image below to view either gallery of high-res shots taken from the floor of the 2007 Guangzhou Motor Show.
Gallery: Mazda2 Sedan
Gallery: Ford Verve Sedan Concept
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Autoblog: Rumormill: Solstice to get G6 GXP-look schnoz?
Filed under: Etc., GM, Pontiac
Oh no. Blogger Mickey Kaus says that he's seen an updated Pontiac Solstice ('09, presumably, since the '08 is unchanged), and that the new front clip sports the unbecoming, "tongue-thrusting" look of the current G6 GXP. Let's hope what Kaus saw was just some driver with poor taste rolling with an aftermarket nose, because the Solstice is not in need of a factory-prescribed rhinoplasty. GM would do well to focus on further refining the next generation of the car and not engage in ill-advised interim facelifts just for the sake of having them.
The Solstice is a great-looking, fun little go-kart that's not without its flaws. None of those, however, involve the car's appearance, which is its strongest suit. The new-look G6 GXP fascia is so overwrought that it effectively ruins an otherwise appealing package (GXP trim is the only way to get the G6 with the 3.6L V6 and 6-speed auto, and be advised: the GXP sedan gets the Gene Simmons mug, too). Don't do that to the Solstice, Pontiac. When you're trying hard to rekindle the Excitement Division, it's probably not a good idea to remind folks that you were the Aztek Division not so long ago. Unnecessary silliness like this does precisely that, so we hope this is one report that never leaves the proverbial rumormill.
[Kausfiles via Instapundit]
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Filed under: Etc., GM, Pontiac
Oh no. Blogger Mickey Kaus says that he's seen an updated Pontiac Solstice ('09, presumably, since the '08 is unchanged), and that the new front clip sports the unbecoming, "tongue-thrusting" look of the current G6 GXP. Let's hope what Kaus saw was just some driver with poor taste rolling with an aftermarket nose, because the Solstice is not in need of a factory-prescribed rhinoplasty. GM would do well to focus on further refining the next generation of the car and not engage in ill-advised interim facelifts just for the sake of having them. The Solstice is a great-looking, fun little go-kart that's not without its flaws. None of those, however, involve the car's appearance, which is its strongest suit. The new-look G6 GXP fascia is so overwrought that it effectively ruins an otherwise appealing package (GXP trim is the only way to get the G6 with the 3.6L V6 and 6-speed auto, and be advised: the GXP sedan gets the Gene Simmons mug, too). Don't do that to the Solstice, Pontiac. When you're trying hard to rekindle the Excitement Division, it's probably not a good idea to remind folks that you were the Aztek Division not so long ago. Unnecessary silliness like this does precisely that, so we hope this is one report that never leaves the proverbial rumormill.
[Kausfiles via Instapundit]
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Autoblog: In The Autoblog Garage: 2008 Toyota Highlander Sport
Filed under: Garage, SUVs, Crossovers/CUVs, Toyota
click above image to view high-res gallery of the 2008 Toyota Highlander
The Highlander's undergone a nearly Kafka-esque transformation from its start as essentially a Camry wagon with all-wheel-drive and extra ride height. For 2008, Toyota's middle-child 'ute has been bulked up into more of a maxi-cruiser than previously. At first glance it appears what's emerged from the chrysalis is a grotesquely overinflated Forester, but the new Highlander is more butterfly than cockroach.
Gallery: 2008 Toyota Highlander Sport
All photos (C)2007 Dan Roth / Weblogs, Inc.Continue reading In The Autoblog Garage: 2008 Toyota Highlander Sport
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Filed under: Garage, SUVs, Crossovers/CUVs, Toyota
click above image to view high-res gallery of the 2008 Toyota Highlander
The Highlander's undergone a nearly Kafka-esque transformation from its start as essentially a Camry wagon with all-wheel-drive and extra ride height. For 2008, Toyota's middle-child 'ute has been bulked up into more of a maxi-cruiser than previously. At first glance it appears what's emerged from the chrysalis is a grotesquely overinflated Forester, but the new Highlander is more butterfly than cockroach.
Gallery: 2008 Toyota Highlander Sport
All photos (C)2007 Dan Roth / Weblogs, Inc.Continue reading In The Autoblog Garage: 2008 Toyota Highlander Sport
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Autoblog: Audi S4 to get 330-HP biturbo 3.0L TFSI V6
Filed under: Sedans/Saloons, Sports/GTs, Audi
Audi is returning to turbos in a big way lately. Look no further for proof than the RS6 Avant sporting a twin-turbo V10 producing 510 HP. The smaller S4 sedan, however, hasn't been force fed since the B5 version with its biturbo 250-horsepower V6. The next two generations were powered by the brand's ubiquitous 4.2L V8 in both non-direct inject and direct-injected versions. AudiWorld has revealed that the newest B8 iteration of the S4 will return the car to turbos once again when it debuts with a biturbo 3.0L TFSI direct-inject engine producing 330 horsepower. This is significant news for a couple of reasons. For one, as AudiWorld points out, the new S4 will be far more receptive to modification than the last two generations with their naturally-aspirated V8s. Presumably it will also be more frugal with fuel than the 4.2L V8-powered S4s before it while producing almost as much power. Finally, the S4's 340 horsepower will best the BMW 335i with its 3.0L twin-turbo inline-six by some 30 horsepower. It's a small victory, but we're sure Audi will take it. Along with high-po powerplant, the B8 S4 is also expected to get Audi's vectoring quattro system that can dynamically send the twist to any wheel it wants. The previous active sport differential system could only split torque between the rear wheels. AudiWorld also reports that the new S4 will go on sale in the U.S. in late 2008, the same time as the A4. This means we should expect the S4 to debut at either the Detroit Auto Show in January or the Geneva Motor Show in March.
[Source: AudiWorld]
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Filed under: Sedans/Saloons, Sports/GTs, Audi
Audi is returning to turbos in a big way lately. Look no further for proof than the RS6 Avant sporting a twin-turbo V10 producing 510 HP. The smaller S4 sedan, however, hasn't been force fed since the B5 version with its biturbo 250-horsepower V6. The next two generations were powered by the brand's ubiquitous 4.2L V8 in both non-direct inject and direct-injected versions. AudiWorld has revealed that the newest B8 iteration of the S4 will return the car to turbos once again when it debuts with a biturbo 3.0L TFSI direct-inject engine producing 330 horsepower. This is significant news for a couple of reasons. For one, as AudiWorld points out, the new S4 will be far more receptive to modification than the last two generations with their naturally-aspirated V8s. Presumably it will also be more frugal with fuel than the 4.2L V8-powered S4s before it while producing almost as much power. Finally, the S4's 340 horsepower will best the BMW 335i with its 3.0L twin-turbo inline-six by some 30 horsepower. It's a small victory, but we're sure Audi will take it. Along with high-po powerplant, the B8 S4 is also expected to get Audi's vectoring quattro system that can dynamically send the twist to any wheel it wants. The previous active sport differential system could only split torque between the rear wheels. AudiWorld also reports that the new S4 will go on sale in the U.S. in late 2008, the same time as the A4. This means we should expect the S4 to debut at either the Detroit Auto Show in January or the Geneva Motor Show in March.
[Source: AudiWorld]
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Autoblog: New 'Ring record: BMW M3 CSL laps in 7:22.8 seconds
Filed under: Auction Action, Etc.
<span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;" />The era of 'Ring attacks has begun. Next atop the heap of Nord-lappers is a lightweight, supercharged BMW M3 CSL that took a full five seconds off the Pagani Zonda F's best run. The car has, of course, been modified, but the changes aren't outrageous -- you might see more extreme mods at your local M3 gathering.
The incredible thing is that the car puts out 532.7 rear-wheel horsepower and weighs 3,139 pounds with thirty liters of fuel. That means it has 70 fewer HP and weighs 400 pounds more than the Pagani Zonda F it dethroned. The car can't be faster down the straights, so this must be all in the corners. We wouldn't mind seeing videos of the two laps side-by-side to find out where the BMW leaves its Italian competition behind.
And get this: you can win this car in an auction. The Loaded.se team is putting the car up via bid2aid.com, and to win you have to place the lowest unique bid. That means that whatever you bid needs to be the only bid of that amount. Crazy concept for an auction, so good luck with your bid of $.02. Check out the video after the jump and see what you think.
Thanks for the tip, Maestro1!
[Source: Carscoop]Continue reading New 'Ring record: BMW M3 CSL laps in 7:22.8 seconds
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Filed under: Auction Action, Etc.
<span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;" />The era of 'Ring attacks has begun. Next atop the heap of Nord-lappers is a lightweight, supercharged BMW M3 CSL that took a full five seconds off the Pagani Zonda F's best run. The car has, of course, been modified, but the changes aren't outrageous -- you might see more extreme mods at your local M3 gathering.
The incredible thing is that the car puts out 532.7 rear-wheel horsepower and weighs 3,139 pounds with thirty liters of fuel. That means it has 70 fewer HP and weighs 400 pounds more than the Pagani Zonda F it dethroned. The car can't be faster down the straights, so this must be all in the corners. We wouldn't mind seeing videos of the two laps side-by-side to find out where the BMW leaves its Italian competition behind.
And get this: you can win this car in an auction. The Loaded.se team is putting the car up via bid2aid.com, and to win you have to place the lowest unique bid. That means that whatever you bid needs to be the only bid of that amount. Crazy concept for an auction, so good luck with your bid of $.02. Check out the video after the jump and see what you think.
Thanks for the tip, Maestro1!
[Source: Carscoop]Continue reading New 'Ring record: BMW M3 CSL laps in 7:22.8 seconds
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Autoblog: It's (apparently) official: The Ford Ranger is dead come 2009
Filed under: Detroit Auto Show, Trucks/Pickups, Ford
One little fact buried in the linked piece about Ford's $2 billion UAW savings is this: the Ranger is dead come 2009. It has been known for a while that the Twin Cities Plant in St. Paul, MN that makes the Ranger would close, and the closure date has been pushed back one year, to 2009. The Cleveland plant that casts engine blocks will also close that year. Credit goes to Automotive News for teasing out these new nuggets of info.
We wrote earlier about possible rescue scenarios for the Ranger, but it looks like the Ranger mine has been shut down and sealed off. Mulally has said that Ford will be more forthcoming about its plans at the Detroit show, so anything is still possible. However, after 26 years, it looks like the compact pickup truck thrill is gone. For you Ranger fans out there, the tune you're looking for is "Taps."
[Source: Auto News, sub req'd]
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Filed under: Detroit Auto Show, Trucks/Pickups, Ford
One little fact buried in the linked piece about Ford's $2 billion UAW savings is this: the Ranger is dead come 2009. It has been known for a while that the Twin Cities Plant in St. Paul, MN that makes the Ranger would close, and the closure date has been pushed back one year, to 2009. The Cleveland plant that casts engine blocks will also close that year. Credit goes to Automotive News for teasing out these new nuggets of info.
We wrote earlier about possible rescue scenarios for the Ranger, but it looks like the Ranger mine has been shut down and sealed off. Mulally has said that Ford will be more forthcoming about its plans at the Detroit show, so anything is still possible. However, after 26 years, it looks like the compact pickup truck thrill is gone. For you Ranger fans out there, the tune you're looking for is "Taps."
[Source: Auto News, sub req'd]
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Autoblog: Detroit 2007 Preview: Jeep Renegade Concept
Filed under: Concept Cars, Detroit Auto Show, SUVs, Green, Jeep
click above image for more views of the Jeep Renegade Concept
var digg_url = 'http://www.digg.com/environment/Jeep_unveils_hybrid_Renegade_Concept_with_110_MPG'; The final concept of Chrysler's trio for the 2008 Detroit Auto Show is the Jeep Renegade Concept. We actually find this one the most interesting, both in terms of design and feasibility. The Renegade features all-aluminum construction to keep its weight down, as well as what appears to be a parallel hybrid drivetrain consisting of the same 40-mile lithium-ion battery pack used in the Chrysler ecoVoyager Concept sharing duties with a small-displacement BLUETEC diesel engine. Jeep claims the Renegade would be good for more than 110 miles per gallon, which we think is probably accurate. Hopefully we'll begin seeing fuel economy numbers like that when lithium-ion battery packs become more prevalent, as well as diesel engines for that matter.
The Renegade's design is typical Jeep, focusing on adventure in all weather conditions. The speedster windshield and roll bar add some sportiness to the aesthetics, while the lower-door openings and hosable interior show it's a true Jeep with a trail-busting attitude. The lack of any front overhang and the vertical headlights give the front end an aerodynamic yet rugged look that we think works well Jeep's trademark seven-slot grille.
That's the last of Chrysler's concept trio that we were given a sneak peak of today, though all will be present and accounted for in January at the Detroit Auto Show. We're not sure yet what the company plans to show in terms of production cars, redesigns and refreshes, but when we find out you'll be the first to know.
[Source: Jeep]
Gallery: Jeep Renegade Concept
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Filed under: Concept Cars, Detroit Auto Show, SUVs, Green, Jeep
click above image for more views of the Jeep Renegade Concept
var digg_url = 'http://www.digg.com/environment/Jeep_unveils_hybrid_Renegade_Concept_with_110_MPG'; The final concept of Chrysler's trio for the 2008 Detroit Auto Show is the Jeep Renegade Concept. We actually find this one the most interesting, both in terms of design and feasibility. The Renegade features all-aluminum construction to keep its weight down, as well as what appears to be a parallel hybrid drivetrain consisting of the same 40-mile lithium-ion battery pack used in the Chrysler ecoVoyager Concept sharing duties with a small-displacement BLUETEC diesel engine. Jeep claims the Renegade would be good for more than 110 miles per gallon, which we think is probably accurate. Hopefully we'll begin seeing fuel economy numbers like that when lithium-ion battery packs become more prevalent, as well as diesel engines for that matter.
The Renegade's design is typical Jeep, focusing on adventure in all weather conditions. The speedster windshield and roll bar add some sportiness to the aesthetics, while the lower-door openings and hosable interior show it's a true Jeep with a trail-busting attitude. The lack of any front overhang and the vertical headlights give the front end an aerodynamic yet rugged look that we think works well Jeep's trademark seven-slot grille.
That's the last of Chrysler's concept trio that we were given a sneak peak of today, though all will be present and accounted for in January at the Detroit Auto Show. We're not sure yet what the company plans to show in terms of production cars, redesigns and refreshes, but when we find out you'll be the first to know.
[Source: Jeep]
Gallery: Jeep Renegade Concept
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Autoblog: Detroit 2007 Preview: Dodge ZEO Concept
Filed under: Concept Cars, Detroit Auto Show, Green, Hatchbacks, Dodge
click above image for more views of the Dodge ZEO Concept
var digg_url = 'http://digg.com/environment/No_HEMI_Dodge_Zeo_electric_vehicle_concept_to_debut_in_January'; The second of three concepts that Chrysler LLC has planned for the 2007 Detroit Auto Show is the Dodge ZEO Concept. It's eco-friendly credentials come via its all-EV powertrain, which consists of a lithium-ion battery pack capable of an impressive 250-mile range. That's theoretical and on-paper we presume, but it's nice to dream. The ZEO is a 2+2, four-passenger sport wagon that features the familiar cross-hair grille up front with a design that looks more Japanese than American to us. The hatchback profile looks like something we've seen on recent Mazda and Honda concepts, though the haunchy fender flares are all Dodge. Unfortunately, that's all we know about the ZEO until January when Dodge debuts the concept in Detroit.
[Source: Dodge]
Gallery: Dodge ZEO Concept
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Filed under: Concept Cars, Detroit Auto Show, Green, Hatchbacks, Dodge
click above image for more views of the Dodge ZEO Concept
var digg_url = 'http://digg.com/environment/No_HEMI_Dodge_Zeo_electric_vehicle_concept_to_debut_in_January'; The second of three concepts that Chrysler LLC has planned for the 2007 Detroit Auto Show is the Dodge ZEO Concept. It's eco-friendly credentials come via its all-EV powertrain, which consists of a lithium-ion battery pack capable of an impressive 250-mile range. That's theoretical and on-paper we presume, but it's nice to dream. The ZEO is a 2+2, four-passenger sport wagon that features the familiar cross-hair grille up front with a design that looks more Japanese than American to us. The hatchback profile looks like something we've seen on recent Mazda and Honda concepts, though the haunchy fender flares are all Dodge. Unfortunately, that's all we know about the ZEO until January when Dodge debuts the concept in Detroit.
[Source: Dodge]
Gallery: Dodge ZEO Concept
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Autoblog: Brabus builds its own Exelero, hits 205 mph at Nardo
Filed under: Aftermarket, Sedans/Saloons, Maybach, MINI, Brabus
Click on the images to view in high-speed and high-resolution
Remember the Maybach Exelero? The ultra-premium marque from Merceceds-Benz built it almost two years ago as a high-speed test vehicle based on its Maybach 57 luxury sedan, but unfortunately never offered production versions to the public. To the rescue comes Brabus, those whacky German tuners who give the go-fast treatment to everything produced by the three-pointed star, from the Smart ForTwo all the way up to this 730-hp limousine.
Like the Exelero, Brabus' monster is based on the Maybach 57 and was built in order to achieve the highest speeds attainable. To get there, Brabus tuned the Maybach's twin-turbo V12 to the same standard as the CLS-based Brabus Rocket speed record car: that means boosting power from 550 hp to 730, thanks to an increase in displacement from 5.5 liters to 6.3, coupled with a new crankshaft, pistons, cylinder heads... the works. The turbos were beefed up, and along with the intercoolers, a custom exhaust was installed and the ECU was reprogrammed.
The result is a top speed of 330.2 km/h (205.2 mph in American speak) achieved at the same Nardo test track in Italy where the Exelero was put through its places. A far cry from the 218.4 mph achieved by the Exelero, but not to shabby in its own right. And here you thought the S versions of the Maybach 57 and 62 were obscene enough....
Check out the images in the gallery below, and the press release after the jump.
[Source: Brabus]
Gallery: Brabus Maybach 57 @Nardo
Continue reading Brabus builds its own Exelero, hits 205 mph at Nardo
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Filed under: Aftermarket, Sedans/Saloons, Maybach, MINI, Brabus
Click on the images to view in high-speed and high-resolution
Remember the Maybach Exelero? The ultra-premium marque from Merceceds-Benz built it almost two years ago as a high-speed test vehicle based on its Maybach 57 luxury sedan, but unfortunately never offered production versions to the public. To the rescue comes Brabus, those whacky German tuners who give the go-fast treatment to everything produced by the three-pointed star, from the Smart ForTwo all the way up to this 730-hp limousine.
Like the Exelero, Brabus' monster is based on the Maybach 57 and was built in order to achieve the highest speeds attainable. To get there, Brabus tuned the Maybach's twin-turbo V12 to the same standard as the CLS-based Brabus Rocket speed record car: that means boosting power from 550 hp to 730, thanks to an increase in displacement from 5.5 liters to 6.3, coupled with a new crankshaft, pistons, cylinder heads... the works. The turbos were beefed up, and along with the intercoolers, a custom exhaust was installed and the ECU was reprogrammed. The result is a top speed of 330.2 km/h (205.2 mph in American speak) achieved at the same Nardo test track in Italy where the Exelero was put through its places. A far cry from the 218.4 mph achieved by the Exelero, but not to shabby in its own right. And here you thought the S versions of the Maybach 57 and 62 were obscene enough....
Check out the images in the gallery below, and the press release after the jump.
[Source: Brabus]
Gallery: Brabus Maybach 57 @Nardo
Continue reading Brabus builds its own Exelero, hits 205 mph at Nardo
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Autoblog: Rendered Speculation: CTS Wagon to show at Detroit, CTS coupe to follow
Filed under: Coupes, Sedans/Saloons, Wagons/Estates, Cadillac
In Europe, Cadillac hasn't been moving the new CTS in the kind of numbers it wanted, and the BLS has always been somewhat of a disappointment. On account of this, Cadillac is once again being said to seriously consider broadening the CTS range to include a coupe and wagon, the better to compete with its German rivals in Europe. Word is that the CTS wagon could bow at Detroit in January, with a CTS coupe coming some time after that. While rumors of a CTS Wagon and Coupe have been around for at least a year, additional European demand for such models could sway the General into giving these cars the green light.
We can't say it strongly enough: Cadillac, do it. And in case that still wasn't enough: we double dog dare you. Cadillac wants its new CTS to swipe buyers from both BMW and Mercedes. Sure, the CTS is COTY, but -- and with all due respect to Motor Trend -- no one buys a 3-Series or C-Class because it wins COTY. The fact that Cadillac doesn't want to offend its core buyers attract new, trendy import buyers with a single four-door sedan is a challenge that we have yet to see anyone overcome. And certainly not a challenger starting from Cadillac's perceived image.
If Cadillac really wants to show the coastal metropolitan crowd that it's serious, it needs to offer more than one great choice of car. A coupe, a wagon, and throw a diesel in, as well... those are great places to start.
[Source: World Car Fans]
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Filed under: Coupes, Sedans/Saloons, Wagons/Estates, Cadillac
In Europe, Cadillac hasn't been moving the new CTS in the kind of numbers it wanted, and the BLS has always been somewhat of a disappointment. On account of this, Cadillac is once again being said to seriously consider broadening the CTS range to include a coupe and wagon, the better to compete with its German rivals in Europe. Word is that the CTS wagon could bow at Detroit in January, with a CTS coupe coming some time after that. While rumors of a CTS Wagon and Coupe have been around for at least a year, additional European demand for such models could sway the General into giving these cars the green light. We can't say it strongly enough: Cadillac, do it. And in case that still wasn't enough: we double dog dare you. Cadillac wants its new CTS to swipe buyers from both BMW and Mercedes. Sure, the CTS is COTY, but -- and with all due respect to Motor Trend -- no one buys a 3-Series or C-Class because it wins COTY. The fact that Cadillac doesn't want to offend its core buyers attract new, trendy import buyers with a single four-door sedan is a challenge that we have yet to see anyone overcome. And certainly not a challenger starting from Cadillac's perceived image.
If Cadillac really wants to show the coastal metropolitan crowd that it's serious, it needs to offer more than one great choice of car. A coupe, a wagon, and throw a diesel in, as well... those are great places to start.
[Source: World Car Fans]
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Autoblog: Officially Official: VW Scirocco a no-go in the U.S.
Filed under: Car Buying, Coupes, Euro, Hatchbacks, Volkswagen
Well, it's official, the upcoming Volkswagen Scirocco will not be making an appearance in North American showrooms. VW of America boss Stefan Jacoby told Car and Driver magazine that there's no room for the Scirocco here with the GTI and R32 already headlining the market segment for the automaker. In the same interview, Jacoby stated that what we could see is a return of the Phaeton, but this time with a diesel underhood. That'd give the primo sedan a unique selling point, to be sure, but there's still no evidence to suggest that an oil-burner will suddenly lessen buyers' reluctance to part with big ducats on a VW-branded luxury car.
[Car and Driver via German Car Blog]
Gallery: Volkswagen IROC
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Filed under: Car Buying, Coupes, Euro, Hatchbacks, Volkswagen
Well, it's official, the upcoming Volkswagen Scirocco will not be making an appearance in North American showrooms. VW of America boss Stefan Jacoby told Car and Driver magazine that there's no room for the Scirocco here with the GTI and R32 already headlining the market segment for the automaker. In the same interview, Jacoby stated that what we could see is a return of the Phaeton, but this time with a diesel underhood. That'd give the primo sedan a unique selling point, to be sure, but there's still no evidence to suggest that an oil-burner will suddenly lessen buyers' reluctance to part with big ducats on a VW-branded luxury car.
[Car and Driver via German Car Blog]
Gallery: Volkswagen IROC
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Autoblog: Lutz promises viable demonstration of Volt by Easter
Filed under: Hybrids/Alternative, Green, Chevrolet, GM
We can hear the hallowed halls of GM headquarters ringing with the chant, "Let Lutz be Lutz!" When Maximum Bob Lutz takes off the gloves, things get done, and the automaker's vice chairman bared his fists recently at a meeting of the Western Automotive Journalists Association in San Francisco. Lutz drew a line in the proverbial sand by promising that the feasibility of the Chevy Volt series hybrid will be proven by Easter when Chevy Malibu mules hiding the Volt's drive system and lithium-ion battery pack will be on the road. The particular aspect of the Volt that most would like to see demonstrated is its supposed ability to travel 40 miles on battery power alone, a feat that some consider optimistic given current battery technology.
Lutz specifically addressed his counterpart at Toyota, Kazuo Okamoto, who has made headlines in the past by calling out GM on its plan to produce the Volt, saying the whole effort is a marketing ruse, and according to BusinessWeek, referring to the car as "completely wacky" and "nonsense". Mr. Lutz: "Let's wait for the Easter Bunny. Somebody's going to have egg on their face. And I don't like having egg on my face."
The war of words between GM and both Toyota and Honda on the viability of the Volt has become quite the soap opera, though from the cheap seats we see GM only benefitting from the additional free press that its competitors seem happy to supply by bashing its uber-hybrid. Now all GM has to do is make it work in time for the Easter Bunny to call shotgun.
[Source: BusinessWeek]
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Filed under: Hybrids/Alternative, Green, Chevrolet, GM
We can hear the hallowed halls of GM headquarters ringing with the chant, "Let Lutz be Lutz!" When Maximum Bob Lutz takes off the gloves, things get done, and the automaker's vice chairman bared his fists recently at a meeting of the Western Automotive Journalists Association in San Francisco. Lutz drew a line in the proverbial sand by promising that the feasibility of the Chevy Volt series hybrid will be proven by Easter when Chevy Malibu mules hiding the Volt's drive system and lithium-ion battery pack will be on the road. The particular aspect of the Volt that most would like to see demonstrated is its supposed ability to travel 40 miles on battery power alone, a feat that some consider optimistic given current battery technology.
Lutz specifically addressed his counterpart at Toyota, Kazuo Okamoto, who has made headlines in the past by calling out GM on its plan to produce the Volt, saying the whole effort is a marketing ruse, and according to BusinessWeek, referring to the car as "completely wacky" and "nonsense". Mr. Lutz: "Let's wait for the Easter Bunny. Somebody's going to have egg on their face. And I don't like having egg on my face."
The war of words between GM and both Toyota and Honda on the viability of the Volt has become quite the soap opera, though from the cheap seats we see GM only benefitting from the additional free press that its competitors seem happy to supply by bashing its uber-hybrid. Now all GM has to do is make it work in time for the Easter Bunny to call shotgun.
[Source: BusinessWeek]
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Autoblog: Amateur designer daydreams: What a 2010 Bugatti Royale could look like
Filed under: Concept Cars, Sedans/Saloons, Sports/GTs, Supercars, Bugatti
Bugatti has stated that it is not going anywhere, and that there will be another model, and that it won't be an entry-level model. (Never mind the fact that an "entry level" Bugatti could still cost $800,000.) What they haven't stated is what kind of model it will be, except to say that it will remain the best of the best.
We aren't sure who's responsible for the rendering above, but if Bugatti were to go the sedan/limo route, this is one person's idea of a new Bugatti Royale. From this angle, we are definitely in. It's a car in which we could see going very fast, very comfortably, on our way to Biarritz with three of those damsels we met at the craps table in Monaco.
From the rear, however... well, things go less... winningly. We can understand the concept of a shooting brake -- but a Bugatti Royale Wagon? Looking at that elegantly sloping expanse just makes us want to go shopping. Very quickly, still, and for very expensive stuff... but shopping nonetheless.
[Source: Autoweb.cz via Caradisiac]
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Filed under: Concept Cars, Sedans/Saloons, Sports/GTs, Supercars, Bugatti
Bugatti has stated that it is not going anywhere, and that there will be another model, and that it won't be an entry-level model. (Never mind the fact that an "entry level" Bugatti could still cost $800,000.) What they haven't stated is what kind of model it will be, except to say that it will remain the best of the best.
From the rear, however... well, things go less... winningly. We can understand the concept of a shooting brake -- but a Bugatti Royale Wagon? Looking at that elegantly sloping expanse just makes us want to go shopping. Very quickly, still, and for very expensive stuff... but shopping nonetheless.
[Source: Autoweb.cz via Caradisiac]
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Autoblog: VIDEO: Kia mimics Flashdance in disturbing year-end sales ad
Filed under: Marketing/Advertising, Videos, Kia
click above image to view video
It's that time of year again when Santa can be seen in the same store window as jack-o-lanterns and Thanksgiving turkeys. But it's also the time when you can see car sales reps trying their best to get rid of year-end stock. They get a little crazy, and you might say, act like maniacs.
We assume this is what Kia's PR team attempts to invoke with its new ad campaign featuring a reworked version of the song "Maniac" set to the same choreographed dance Jennifer Beals performed oh-so-flawlessly in the movie Flashdance. As the impassioned and perspiring Kia salesman dances around the showroom tossing keys to satisfied customers, the song plays with lyrics like, "He's a maniac . . . and he's selling like he's never sold before."
It's a fun little commercial with a memorably classic tune for a soundtrack and tributes to Flashdance that will at the same time make you cringe and smile. One thing's for sure, though: if Jennifer Beals were dancing like that at a Kia dealership, we might be interested in an '07 Optima.
[Source: Kia via Adage]Continue reading VIDEO: Kia mimics Flashdance in disturbing year-end sales ad
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Filed under: Marketing/Advertising, Videos, Kia
click above image to view video
It's that time of year again when Santa can be seen in the same store window as jack-o-lanterns and Thanksgiving turkeys. But it's also the time when you can see car sales reps trying their best to get rid of year-end stock. They get a little crazy, and you might say, act like maniacs.
We assume this is what Kia's PR team attempts to invoke with its new ad campaign featuring a reworked version of the song "Maniac" set to the same choreographed dance Jennifer Beals performed oh-so-flawlessly in the movie Flashdance. As the impassioned and perspiring Kia salesman dances around the showroom tossing keys to satisfied customers, the song plays with lyrics like, "He's a maniac . . . and he's selling like he's never sold before."
It's a fun little commercial with a memorably classic tune for a soundtrack and tributes to Flashdance that will at the same time make you cringe and smile. One thing's for sure, though: if Jennifer Beals were dancing like that at a Kia dealership, we might be interested in an '07 Optima.
[Source: Kia via Adage]Continue reading VIDEO: Kia mimics Flashdance in disturbing year-end sales ad
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Autoblog: FIA rejects McLaren appeal, confirms Raikkonen's title
Filed under: Motorsports
Kimi Raikkonen and the boys at Ferrari can breathe a sigh of relief, as their championship has been formally confirmed by the FIA. The title was appealed by the incredibly sore losers at McLaren, who insisted that because of a temperature irregularity in the fuel in BMW's and Williams' cars at the season closer in Brazil, those four cars should have been disqualified, thereby catapulting McLaren's Lewis Hamilton to the championship. (Yeah, they were serious.)
Hamilton, it should be noted, stated that he didn't want to win the championship that way. And nobody else wanted him too, either. Even F1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone threatened to quit the sport if the FIA took the title away from Raikkonen and awarded it to Hamilton over the technicality.
The ruling was issued by a specially-convened panel of the FIA's International Court of Appeal, presided over by a Czech motorsport judge and three others from the United States, Greece and Portugal. The court, which heard testimonies from BMW, Williams and McLaren, convened in London instead of the FIA's headquarters in Paris due to traffic issues in the French capital.
Our take: Rules are rules, but if the FIA had stripped Raikkonen of his title, it would have been bad for him, bad for Hamilton, bad for F1 and bad for motorsports. We'll be waiting for Ron Dennis to find a way to blame us for this, too.
Full statement from the FIA after the jump.Continue reading FIA rejects McLaren appeal, confirms Raikkonen's title
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Filed under: Motorsports
Kimi Raikkonen and the boys at Ferrari can breathe a sigh of relief, as their championship has been formally confirmed by the FIA. The title was appealed by the incredibly sore losers at McLaren, who insisted that because of a temperature irregularity in the fuel in BMW's and Williams' cars at the season closer in Brazil, those four cars should have been disqualified, thereby catapulting McLaren's Lewis Hamilton to the championship. (Yeah, they were serious.)Hamilton, it should be noted, stated that he didn't want to win the championship that way. And nobody else wanted him too, either. Even F1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone threatened to quit the sport if the FIA took the title away from Raikkonen and awarded it to Hamilton over the technicality.
The ruling was issued by a specially-convened panel of the FIA's International Court of Appeal, presided over by a Czech motorsport judge and three others from the United States, Greece and Portugal. The court, which heard testimonies from BMW, Williams and McLaren, convened in London instead of the FIA's headquarters in Paris due to traffic issues in the French capital.
Our take: Rules are rules, but if the FIA had stripped Raikkonen of his title, it would have been bad for him, bad for Hamilton, bad for F1 and bad for motorsports. We'll be waiting for Ron Dennis to find a way to blame us for this, too.
Full statement from the FIA after the jump.Continue reading FIA rejects McLaren appeal, confirms Raikkonen's title
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