Autoblog: News Thread

Autoblog: In Japan, the road serenades YOU!

Filed under: Etc., Videos, Driving
melody_road.jpg


When you get right down to it, music is all about assembling the right vibrations at the right time. Thus, it should come as no surprise that roads can be designed to sing you a song. In Japan, there's a stretch called Melody Road, which has a series of grooves cut into it with spacing varied to produce different tones as car tires roll over them at speed. The quarter notes painted on the road surface are a visual indicator to unsuspecting motorists that their car is not going to puke its driveshafts out, it's just the pavement having a little fun.

Here in the US, we've only got the wakeup strips in front of tollbooths and those warning divots cut into the shoulder to let you know when you're about to drift into the median. We wonder if designers of the singing roads start with simple riffs, like "Smoke On The Water," before moving on to more complex pieces. The first guy who manages to get a Bach Fugue down in asphalt will have our undying admiration. Do old roads get old songs? If that's the case, they'll be teaching the youngsters Sukiaki.

Video embedded after the jump.

Thanks for the tip, Ben!Continue reading In Japan, the road serenades YOU!

Permalink | Email this | Comments
</img> </img>
184206858


More...
 
Autoblog: Peugeot 908 HDI wins LeMans Series

Filed under: Motorsports, Peugeot
peugeot-908.jpg


The Le Mans Series wrapped up it's 2007 racing season this past weekend at the Interlagos track in Sao Paulo Brazil, and the Peugeot team finished it's clean sweep.The new Peugeot 908 HDi diesel powered prototypes took six victories in six races including a pair of one-two finishes. The No 8 car of Marc Gene and Nicolas Minassian led their teammates Pedro Lamy and St&eacute;phane Sarrazin across the line after 1,000 miles of racing, although the latter pair had accumulated enough points over the course of the season to take the championship. Unfortunately the only time the French diesels got to face off against the Audi R10s was at Le Mans where one of the two Audis won.

[Source: Peugeot]Continue reading Peugeot 908 HDI wins LeMans Series

Permalink | Email this | Comments
</img> </img>
184188172


More...
 
Autoblog: Toyota delivers pair of plug-in Prius to California universities

Filed under: Trends, Hybrids/Alternative, Green, Toyota


Leaving no stone unturned when looking at a more efficient future, Toyota has teamed up with the Univerisity of California to further study the viability of plug-in hybrid versions of the Prius. As part of the research, Toyota donated two prototype Prius models modified for plug-in operations to the Institute of Transportation Studies at UC Berkeley and the Advanced Power and Energy Program at UC Irvine. The two university programs will study ways to measure and test fuel economy and emissions, including upstream emissions from power generation, as well as what sacrifices people are willing to make, how much they'd actively seek to plug their cars in, and what type of range and charge time they're willing to live with.

The current Prius provides a good base for the research, and didn't change drastically to pull PHEV duty. There's a larger battery pack occupying the space normally reserved for the spare tire, and the powertrain controller allows more frequent EV-mode operation, as well as running on battery to about 60 mph. The battery pack size will shrink as new technologies come online, and the limited (7 miles) range in EV mode will likely also increase. Quite an about-face from the days not too long ago when Toyota was vociferously denouncing PHEV conversions of their cockroach-shaped four-wheeled eco-statement.

Hit the jump for Toyota's press release.Continue reading Toyota delivers pair of plug-in Prius to California universities

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments
</img> </img>
184180852


More...
 
Autoblog: BMW slaps a refreshed nose on the 6, plus new prices

Filed under: Car Buying, Convertibles, Coupes, BMW

Click the image above for a gallery of high-res pics of the 2008 BMW 6-series.

BMW released the details on the 2008 6-series today, and after wading through the lengthy press release, the only exterior changes we could come up with is a mildly revised fascia and LED taillamps. On the engineering side, BMW added a lane-departure warning system and a new electronic shifter with an optional Sport Automatic that blips the throttle when you grab the "-" paddle on the steering wheel. The new cost of entry for the 650i coupe is $76,375, while the 650i convertible comes in at a cool $83,475.

BMW's exceeding long-winded press release is posted after the jump.

Gallery: 2008 BMW 650i - Coupe and Convertible

Continue reading BMW slaps a refreshed nose on the 6, plus new prices

Permalink | Email this | Comments
</img> </img>
184282901


More...
 
Autoblog: Redesigned Forester coming to Detroit, first unconfirmed sketch materialize

Filed under: Detroit Auto Show, Wagons/Estates, Subaru


While there's no way to verify if this particular sketch foretells the future of the Subaru Forester, we think it's probably not too far off the mark. Considering Subaru's blandification of its lineup - from the Impreza to the Tribeca - the new nose seems entirely plausible, and the upkicked D-pillar seems to be all the rage nowadays.

As in the past, the Forester will be built atop the Impreza platform, so we can expect a slightly longer wheelbase that won't necessity Yoga-like poses for passengers entering and exiting the rear seats. More trunk space out back is also assured, while power will likely come from the same naturally-aspirated 2.5-liter found in the base Impreza. We're not going to hold our breath (again) for an STI variant, but we think it's simply a matter of time before Subaru throws in the turbo'd mill from the WRX to make another XT version of the Forester.

[Source: NASIOC via Straightline]
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments
</img> </img>
184268281


More...
 
Autoblog: What else is new? Lexus "struggling" to develop LF-A supercar

Filed under: Tokyo Motor Show, Supercars


Toyota's showing in Tokyo was rife with disappointments, none more so than what was over at the Lexus booth. Beyond its LF-Xh hybrid crossover, rumor had it that a revised version of the LF-A supercar would make an appearance. No such luck. Instead, the same show car we've seen over the last year stood alone, longing for refinement.

According to Winding Road's Japan correspondent, the reason for the dismal showing was a shakeup on the engineering side of Lexus' new halo. A number of "key engineers" have apparently been yanked off the project to work on other programs within Toyota, and that, partnered with problems providing power from both a V10 and a gas-electric hybrid V8, along with reaching the 218 MPH targeted top speed, has caused delays in development.

The business plan for the LF-A includes building 26 units per month, and sources suggest that sales are likely to begin in 2009 - the same year Acura will bring its own supercar to market.

[Source: Winding Road]

Gallery: Lexus LF-A Concept


Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments
</img> </img>
184248223


More...
 
Autoblog: 2008 Porsche 911 GT2 introduction: Engine technology

Filed under: Motorsports, Sports/GTs, Tech, Supercars, Porsche


Squeezing 480 HP from a 3.6L flat-six is an impressive feat, and the latest 911 Turbo does it with a level of sophistication, refinement, and reliability that would have been thought impossible just a few years ago. Everything is relative, though, and "more" is always the operative word when it comes to Porsche's GT2. So, how does one squeeze fifty additional ponies from an such a powerplant? Considering all the different challenges - emissions, durability, drivability, and fuel economy - it's certainly not an easy task. Fortunately, Porsche has no small amount of experience squeezing more power from turbocharged boxers, and that knowledge was put to good use on the new 2008 GT2.

Gallery: 2008 Porsche GT2 intro

Continue reading 2008 Porsche 911 GT2 introduction: Engine technology

Permalink | Email this | Comments
</img> </img>
184236063


More...
 
Autoblog: News Thread.

Filed under: Tech
borgwarner_dsg.jpg

BorgWarner's dual-clutch DSG (direct-shift gearbox) transmission systems have been showing up in Volkswagen and Audi vehicles since 2003. The system utilizes two clutches to select gears, allowing for smooth, uninterrupted power delivery. The clutches are electro-hydraulically actuated, allowing for virtually instant gear changes and control logic that pre-selects the next required gear. While BorgWarner's original DSG design has allowed for greater fuel-efficiency over traditional automatic transmissions, it has had room for improvement. The original design is a wet-clutch system, meaning the clutches operate in a bath of oil to keep temperatures down and eliminate wear. The oiling system requires large pumps to keep up the constant flow through the system and it also creates hydraulic drag that affects efficiency.
However, with recent announcements coming out of the BorgWarner camp, it is apparent they are still on the leading edge of dual-clutch transmission development. The company is slated to provide systems for the upcoming Nissan GT-R and BMW M3. These are high power output applications that would be hindered by BorgWarner's original DSG design without improvements. For these next generation systems the wet-clutch system has been changed to a moist-clutch system requiring less lubrication and therefore a smaller oil pump. This also reduces hydraulic drag on the system, thus reducing drivetrain losses. The clutch materials have also been improved for heat transfer and wear properties. The use of materials that do not degrade with friction or waste mechanical energy through heat generation allow the clutch design to live in these more stressful environments and to do so more efficiently.
[Source: BorgWarner via CNNMoney.com]

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments
</img> </img>
184340616


More...
 
Autoblog: IIHS wrecks new Scion xD. Rates average, good

Filed under: Safety, Hatchbacks, Scion


The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) did its worst to the new Scion xD, and after performing both the frontal offset test and a side impact test with the standard front and rear head curtain airbags and front seat torso airbags, the xD came away with ratings from "good" to "average."

On the frontal offset crash, the IIHS found that the dummy's movement was well controlled, although the rebound caused its head to strike the roof rail. The possibility of injury to the neck and chest garnered an "average" rating, while the safety cage, foot protection and restraint system were all rated as "good."

The side impact test rated the Scion xD as "good" all around, save an "average" rating for the structure/safety cage portion. Although there's no IIHS data for the Scion xA - the model the xD replaced - NHTSA gave the old model four out of five stars.

[Source: IIHS]
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments
</img> </img>
184327248


More...
 
Autoblog: Abt tunes the VW Tiguan

Filed under: Aftermarket, Tuners, Crossovers/CUVs, Volkswagen, Misc. Auto Shows


Next month's Essen Motor Show will feature a ton of tuned vehicles from Europe's best and brightest, and among them will be Abt's interpretation of the new Volkswagen Tiguan. The new crossover has just hit the market abroad, but Abt has already done its best to make this new cute 'ute stand out from its stock counterpart.

On the outside, a two-tone body kit plays off the Tiguan's relatively staid styling to create a substantially more aggressive persona, complete with new front and rear spoilers, flared wheel arches, side skirts and a larger front grille. Abt didn't get into specifics about what suspension modifications were performed to drop the Tiggy over optional 18-, 19- or 20-inch rollers, but new brakes are part of the package.

Buyers who opted for the 1.4-liter turbocharged FSI engine will get a significant boost in output from 150 HP to 200 HP, while the 2.0-liter turbodiesel can either be had in 170 HP or 200 HP flavors. There's no mention of torque figures for either engine, nor are there performance estimates available in the press release after the jump.

Gallery: Abt Volkswagen Tiguan

Continue reading Abt tunes the VW Tiguan

Permalink | Email this | Comments
</img> </img>
184372971


More...
 
Autoblog: Diesel option added to Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo

Filed under: Car Buying, SUVs, Jeep
gcdiesel_smlogo.jpg
The price of getting into a Jeep Grand Cherokee with a diesel engine just got a little lower, as Chrysler has expanded the 3.0L oil-burner's availability to the Laredo trim level (with X Package). $35,685 gets you behind the wheel of a 4x2 model, while $38,305 is the price of the 4x4. Either way, the Laredo Diesel seems pretty well-equipped, including SIRIUS satellite radio, power sunroof, remote start, and a host of other features. Additionally, Chrysler has dropped the price of both the Grand Cherokee Limited Diesel and Grand Cherokee Overland Diesel by $1,000. So, now all you need is the will, the means, and residence in any state except CA, NY, CT, ME, VT, MA, PA or RI. For more info on the Grand Cherokee Diesel, check out AutoblogGreen's October review of the SUV. Complete details on the Laredo Diesel availability and the Limited/Overland price drops are in the press release pasted after the jump.

[Source: Chrysler]Continue reading Diesel option added to Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo

Permalink | Email this | Comments
</img> </img>
184362357


More...
 
Autoblog: New Vector WX8 revives iconic American supercar name

Filed under: Concept Cars, LA Auto Show, Time Warp, Supercars
vector_avtech_wx_8.jpg


If the name Gerald Weigert sounds familiar, you're probably a car nut of a certain age that remembers his travails trying to launch his pet supercar project, the Vector, back in the '70s, and the ensuing limited production run and financial difficulties during the '80s and early '90s. Originally powered by a turbocharged GM V8 in W8 guise, they eventually were fitted with a Lamborghini-sourced V12 in the M12 model. Fast forward to 2007, and the man that created quite a stir a generation ago with his All-American supercar is at it again. Vector Motors sent out a press release announcing their newest offering, the Vector Avtech WX8.

The full specs on the car are in the release (which you'll find after the jump), but it's fairly similar to the original plan. A race developed chassis with a bunch of aerospace technology, powered by a big V8. In this case it appears to be a Z06 mill that has been tweaked to produce 600HP, or a whopping 750 with an optional supercharger. Claimed acceleration is right in the middle of the supercar pack with 0-60 mph happening in 3.3 seconds, the quarter in 11.3 sec. at 138 mph, and a top speed of 260-270 MPH, given the proper gearing.

We'll see the car at the LA Auto Show this week, but Jalopnik ran these photos which make it look a bit like a mid-engined previous gen Camaro. We're not sure if this is the final look or not, so we'll reserve judgment.

[Source: Vector Motors via Jalopnik]Continue reading New Vector WX8 revives iconic American supercar name

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments
</img> </img>
184403616


More...
 
Autoblog: Pininfarina struggling, seeks new partners

Filed under: Concept Cars, Euro, Plants/Manufacturing
Legendary design house Pininfarina is looking for some new partners to help stop the flow of red ink. A few high-profile projects in the past several years haven't done much to diminish the losses, apparently. As much as we loved the Glickenhaus Ferrari 612 P4/5 and 612K, a couple of gorgeous one-offs couldn't possibly be enough to keep an operation of this size afloat. Although Pininfarina is also building the Alfa Romeo Brera coupe and Spider, Ford Focus Coupe Cabriolet, Mitsubishi Colt CZC, and the Volvo C70, times are tough.

The company has lost almost twice as much money so far this year as they did during the same period last year: 39.1 million euros compared to "just" 16.3 million euros for the same period in 2006. After letting Ken Okuyama get away from them and losing Lorenzo Ramaciotti to FIAT, they need to make some important decisions soon if they want to keep the house of Farina afloat. To help right the ship they've already started working with automotive consultant Roland Berger and with financial advisers, Rothschild.

The initial plan is to add manufacturing partners to help reduce Pininfarina's financial risks in this unpredictable contract manufacturing business. The brand name is golden, but it hasn't managed to attract enough projects recently. Hopefully these new advisers will be able to save this great Italian institution.

[Source: Automotive News, sub. req.]
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments
</img> </img>
184389397


More...
 
Autoblog: LA 2007: 2009 Lincoln MKS brings new look to American luxury

Filed under: LA Auto Show, Sedans/Saloons, Lincoln

click above image to view high-res gallery of the 2009 Lincoln MKS

var digg_url = 'http://digg.com/business_finance/2009_Lincoln_MKS_unveiled_new_look_for_American_luxury_pics'; For the past two decades, the only thing consistent about Ford's Lincoln division has been its inconsistency. To put it lightly, the brand has struggled to find it's place in the automotive landscape. The vehicles from Ford's premium domestic division haven't had a coherent look since the early '80s. Several of its models, such as the LS and the Navigator, have sold well at times, but the absence of a Lincoln DNA hasn't helped. In 2006, North American Design chief Peter Horbury set about changing all that. He gave his team the task of examining past Lincolns to determine what set them apart.

The first new model intended to set Lincoln on it's path to rebirth is the 2009 MKS, which is making its debut in production form at the LA Auto Show later today. The MKS first appeared as a concept at the 2006 Detroit Auto Show. It's based on the same platform as the Ford 500/Taurus, which originated at Volvo under the S80/XC90. When the concept first appeared it was reasonably well received as a pleasant if not daring design for the marque. Subsequently, Horbury's team began its quest for the soul of Lincoln and came up with a list of seven elements that would be part of future Lincoln designs. Most of these appeared on the 2007 MKR concept that we saw in Detroit. While most of the MKS was already locked in for production, after the show Ford management made the decision to adopt one of most prominent elements from the new MKR concept, its grille.

[Source: Lincoln]
Gallery: LA 2007: Lincoln MKS

Continue reading LA 2007: 2009 Lincoln MKS brings new look to American luxury

Permalink | Email this | Comments
</img> </img>
184487223


More...
 
Autoblog: AutoblogGreen for 11.14.07

Filed under: Hybrids/Alternative, Green


Ahh, the L.A. Auto Show. From the green side of the aisle, we recall with some fondness GM's announcement last year regarding the plug-in Saturn Vue hybrid. This year, the news we can release thus far is about the Chevrolet Silverado Two-Mode Hybrid and the new engine sizes for the Chevrolet Impala E85. More to come throughout the day, so stay tuned.
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments
</img> </img>
184515594


More...
 
Autoblog: LA 2007: Audi creates another niche with the Cross Cabriolet quattro

Filed under: Concept Cars, LA Auto Show, Convertibles, Crossovers/CUVs, Audi

Click the Cross Cabriolet Quattro for a high-res gallery

At the Los Angeles Auto Show today, Audi carves out yet another niche in the market by attempting to answer the question of what happens when a TT roadster and a Q7 head behind the barn for some fun. Apparently, the answer is the Cross Cabriolet quattro. This new crossover with a retractable soft-top features Audi's obligatory quattro all-wheel-drive and gets propulsion via the latest version of the 3.0L TDI V6.

The updated TDI has 240hp and 369 lb-ft of torque and is fully compliant with the Euro 6 emissions regulations. The diesel is equipped with a particulate filter and uses urea injection to clean up the NOx emissions. The fifteen foot long four-seater has 110.6-inch wheelbase. All the torque is distributed to the corners by way of an eight speed automatic transmission and motion is arrested by big ceramic brakes. Check out the details after the jump.

[Source: Audi]

Gallery: LA 2007: Audi Cross Cabriolet Quattro

Continue reading LA 2007: Audi creates another niche with the Cross Cabriolet quattro

Permalink | Email this | Comments
</img> </img>
184673130


More...
 
Autoblog: LA 2007: 2009 Chevy Silverado Hybrid

Filed under: LA Auto Show, Trucks/Pickups, Green, Chevrolet, GM

Click image for hi-res gallery

GM is spreading the full-size 2-Mode hybrid wealth from its big SUVs to its trucks. While the last Silverado Hybrid's claim to fame was its ability to act as a worksite generator, the all-new 2009 version is designed to deliver markedly improved fuel economy. Powered by the same 332 hp/367 lb-ft 6.0L V8 hybrid drivetrain as the Tahoe, Yukon and Escalade hybrids, GM claims that the truck will see a 40% increase in city fuel economy and a 25% overall bump compared to its non-hybrid sibling, making it the most fuel-efficient full-size pickup on the market (EPA numbers are still TBD). It can run in all-electric mode up to 30 mph, even when towing (up to 6,100 lbs). Depending on the state of battery charge, all-electric operation can continue for up to one full mile. GM engineers also implemented a number of improvements to make driving quieter under all conditions, which is a.) nice for the occupants and b.) makes for a more seamless transition between electric-only and engine-on modes. In addition to the quiet tuning, the Silverado Hybrid receives aero tweaks in the form of a new front air dam and a standard tonneau cover for the bed. The most obvious tradeoff owners have to make is the loss of some potential in-cabin cargo space, as the battery pack resides under the back seat. That floorspace is normally unoccupied in non-hybrid Silverados and can be used to haul items when the seat bottom is flipped up and out of the way. Some of that utility is obviously lost in this application. Pricing hasn't been announced yet, but expect to pay a premium for the green tech when the truck arrives in showrooms during the latter half of 2008.

[Source: GM]

Gallery: 2008 Chevy Silverado Hybrid

Continue reading LA 2007: 2009 Chevy Silverado Hybrid

Permalink | Email this | Comments
</img> </img>
184661774


More...
 
Autoblog: Who needs a Lexus LS? I want a Malibu!

Filed under: Car Buying, Etc., Chevrolet, GM

click above image for more high-res pics of the 2008 Chevy Malibu

The media is giving the new Chevy Malibu more love than any midsize product donning the bow tie has gotten in years. As it turns out, there are a few people in the market for a new car that are just as excited. Maximum Bob Lutz was nice enough to share on his FastLane Blog a story about how much one man likes the new Malibu, and he's going through great lengths to get one in his garage. The guy in question hadn't given a GM product the time of day since 1979, but the new Malibu looked so good to him that he was willing to purchase one from a dealer friend in California. Since he lives in Michigan, he plans on flying out to pick up his new ride and then driving it nearly 3,000 miles back to his home.The part of the story that undoubtedly has Mr. Lutz the most giddy is the fact that the gentleman in question is currently driving a Lexus LS and had been driving several Mercedes prior to his that. We certainly liked the Malibu during our short time with the vehicle, but if we were to purchase one for ourselves, we'd likely wait until one was available a little closer to home.

[Source: FastLane Blog]

Gallery: First Drive: 2008 Chevrolet Malibu


Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments
</img> </img>
184727520


More...
 
Autoblog: LA 2007: VW space up! blue

Filed under: Concept Cars, LA Auto Show, Minivans/MPVs, Green, Volkswagen

Click image for photo gallery

VW has adapted its globe-trotting up! concept for California's green sensibilities, packaged it like a micro-sized microbus and has brought the result to Los Angeles. The space up! blue is a fuel cell hybrid with plug-in capabilities. It leverages a high-temperature fuel cell (the world's first, according to VW) in concert with a lithium-ion battery array to power a rear-mounted electric motor. A solar panel on the roof also helps charge the onboard batteries. On battery power alone, the little cruiser has a range of 65 miles with a full charge. When the fuel cell is added into the mix, maximum range increases to 220 miles. VW claims that its high temperature fuel cell (FC-HT) is more production-viable in the long tun than competing fuel cell tech because it's lighter, more geared to everyday use and less costly to produce. That's very encouraging news, to be sure. Now, if only they had figured out a way to allow for roof-mounted surfboards without blocking the solar panel...

[Source: VW]
Gallery: VW space up! blue

Continue reading LA 2007: VW space up! blue

Permalink | Email this | Comments
</img> </img>
184711899


More...
 
Autoblog: The Roewe 550 is not beautiful

Filed under: Sedans/Saloons, China, Roewe


The E-Type Jaguar is beautiful. The Lamborghini Miura is beautiful. Most reasonable individuals bestowed with the gift of sight would not argue those points. Alas, "beautiful" as an adjective is regularly abused. Case in point: the new Roewe 550, which is inexplicably described as such by our Sino-focused blogging brothers at China Car Times. We strenuously disagree. We understand that there are many ugly Chinese cars, and that when the nation's auto industry produces one that doesn't cause onlookers to instantaneously turn to stone, it's noteworthy. That said, "not overwhelmingly ugly" does not equal "beautiful." The Roewe 550's front end looks as if a modern Nissan/Infiniti (grille shape & slats), a Saturn Aura (everything below the front bumper), and a last-gen Chrysler Sebring or 300M (headlamps) got caught in a horrific Star Trek transporter accident. As you can see, the result is far from beautiful, despite the generous claims of China Car Times. They're entitled to their opinions, of course, but if this is beautiful then the new Malibu looks like Malcom Pray's 1939 Delahaye by comparison.

[Source: China Car Times]
Permalink | Email this | Comments
</img> </img>
184704725


More...
 
Back
Top