Obama's New Cadillac Limo Officially Unveiled

President-Elect Barack Obama's getting a new Cadillac Limousine in time for his inauguration on January 20th. Here are the first official photos. The new limo’s a rolling symbol of the President’s power and GM’s marketing.

While the new Cadillac One may look like a stretched Cadillac DTS, it’s in fact based on the gigantic GMC Topkick truck platform. Security tech likely includes five-inch thick bulletproof glass, ultra high strength ceramic armor and cellphone jammers, but the Secret Service is putting the kibosh on official details for security reasons. One tech item they are talking about are the LED spotlights that’ll illuminate the fender-mounted flags at night.

The press release follows:

2009 NAIAS Preview: Audi Sportback concept

Audi will unveil the Sportback concept show car at the 2009 North American International Automobile Show.
With systematic refinements to the brand’s characteristic design elements, the five-door model offers a glimpse at the Audi's future design vocabulary. With its pronounced coupé-like silhouette and large rear hatch, the 4.95 m long (16.24 ft), 1.93 m wide (6.33 ft) and only 1.40 m high (4.59 ft) vehicle is boldly progressive for the luxury class. The technology of the Audi Sportback concept is markedly futuristic. Power is provided by the world’s cleanest diesel technology: the 3.0-liter V6 TDI clean diesel almost completely eliminates nitrogen oxides. This engine already meets the emissions limits of all 50 U.S. states and the EU6 standard scheduled to take effect in 2014. And numerous measures to ensure top efficiency mean that the Audi Sportback concept is expected to achieve impressive fuel consumption figures of 5.9 liters of diesel per 100 kilometers (39.87 US mpg).

Source: Audi

Mercedes Mounts Dodge Neon, We Giggle

This forcible humping of a Mercedes and Neon resulted when a woman was trying to perform a three-point turn. Looks to us like the Mercedes was trying to pull off the coveted Eiffel Tower instead.

A woman in the UK decided instead of gently pressing the brake pedal, she jammed down on the accelerator while attempting a three-point turn, causing her Mercedes to mount the front end of a little Neon. The owner of the car was awoken by a loud crashing sound and rushed out to make sure that the driver was okay. It turned out it was his neighbor's wife, so they all had a laugh over some tea and crumpets - all so British, wouldn't you say?

All involved did not feel so jolly as the house was reported saying that it was not happy with the unexpected mounting and therefore would not complete the necessary steps to complete the Eiffel Tower maneuver. The Neon was heard mumbling "Hi!" Another steamy shot of the car-on-car duo below.

We're big fans of crazy drivers and we've provided another great attempt at parking below.

[via dailymail.uk, YouTube]

Audi A4 is Germany’s most successful premium model in 2008

The latest vehicle registration numbers verify that the Audi A4 is Germany’s most successful premium automobile. No other model in the premium segment surpassed the 98,714 A4 models registered last year. The Audi A6 also topped its segment with 45,304 registrations. The second generation of the Audi TT design icon was registered 10,630 times in Germany – making it the most successful sports car in Germany in 2008.
AUDI AG was able to expand its market share on the domestic German market to 8.1 percent – an increase of 0.8 percent. In Western Europe, Audi boosted its market share by 0.4 points to 4.8 percent: No other premium brand succeeded in strengthening its market position this significantly.

“Audi is presently experiencing stronger growth than any other premium brand in the region – and thanks to new models we will maintain this dynamism,” says Rupert Stadler, Chairman of the Board of Management of AUDI AG. “In a difficult market environment, we want to further expand our market share in Germany and Western Europe.”

The Audi A4 is presently undergoing further upgrading: The top versions of the model line – the S4 Sedan and Avant – are now arriving in Europe’s showrooms. The new A4 Avant was just launched in April 2008. In addition to the fleet award from Auto-Flotte magazine, Audi’s best-selling model has already won countless accolades and has beaten the competition in all relevant comparison tests.

The product improvement of the A6 was launched in September 2008. Also the winner of the fleet award in its class, today the A6 is Germany’s most successful business sedan.

With the Audi TTS, the top version of the TT line, Audi introduced the first S model in this class. The Audi TT TDI debuted as the first production sports car powered by a diesel engine.

Source: Audi AG

First 2010 Ford Shelby GT500, SVT Raptor to Join First Camaro at Barrett-Jackson

Despite the dire state of the automotive industry, automakers, collectors and celebrities are donating a record 14 vehicles to the 38th Annual Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction held January 11-18, 2009 in Scottsdale, Arizona. Proceeds from the donated vehicles will go directly to a variety of charities. Highlighted in the bunch are the first retail production 2010 Ford Shelby GT500 (whose First Look can be seen here) and 2010 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor. Joining the Fords will be the first 2010 Chevrolet Camaro, which had already been announced as going on the block.

General Motors' contribution will benefit the American Heart Association and comes complete with certified VIN No. 100001. Added to the package is the lucky Camaro buyer's option to spec out the car to their exact wishes once the sale is finalized.

The pair of firsts from Ford -- the 540-HP Shelby GT500 and Baja-tested F-150 SVT Raptor -- will come with equal prestige and are slated to benefit the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.

Also among the lot of donated rides are a 1970 Plymouth Superbird by YearOne, a 2007 Chevrolet Monte Carlo NASCAR driven by Tony Stewart, a 2008 Ford Mustang GT Roush P-51A, and a 1957 Ford Thunderbird.

Source: Barrett-Jackson

Rumormill: Nissan GT-R-based sedan and SUV in the works, LF-A on track, Supra planning comeback

InsideLine's correspondent in Japan says that despite the global economic crisis that has caused the demise of the Acura NSX, there are plenty of good things on the way from Japan's top automakers.

Adding fuel to the rumormill fire, Peter Lyon reports that Nissan is hard at work developing two models based off the Nissan GT-R: the oft-rumored four-door Infiniti and a Porsche Cayenne-fighting SUV, a vehicle that has already been denied by Nissan. Naturally, he doesn't disclose his sources, nor does he go into detail about the automakers efforts, but both models are expected to be released sometime in 2011.

The rumored demise of the Lexus LF-A is also open to debate – yet again – and according to Lyon's logic, after Toyota made the decision to continue its Formula One campaign, the automaker "still wants to bring its first true supercar to market." The V10-powered luxo-coupe is supposedly 12 to 18 months off and pricing is expected to retail for close to $340,000.

Two other vehicles on the chopping block that Lyon says have been spared are the Honda S2000 replacement, which could debut in late 2011 or early 2012, as well as Toyota's plans to bring back the Supra with V6 power in 2011. The all-new Subaru Legacy which debuted in Detroit is also slated to arrive in production form this May, with sales beginning sometime in the fall.

We are not entirely convinced that any of these projects are sure things, so until we get confirmation from the individual automakers, we'll remain comfortably numb to the news.

[Source: InsideLine]

Making Canada a Better Place: Ontario Jumps on EV Infrastructure Band Wagon

Ontario, Canada, is the latest to jump on the Better Place electric wagon. The California-based project aims to eliminate gasoline dependence and emissions by establishing a network of battery exchange stations for electric vehicles. Israel, Denmark, Australia, California and Hawaii have already pledged support to the idea.

That idea is to create a network that supports emissions-free transportation. Better Place attempts to accomplish this by powering its network with renewable sources of energy. Under the planned system, subscribers could charge vehicles at home or at the office. During a longer drive, the depleted batteries would be exchanged with new, charged ones at service stations. As of now, the project utilizes electric versions of the Nissan Rogues and Renault Megane.

In Canada, Better Place will partner with Bullfrog Power to charge the Ontario infrastructure and Macquarie Group to devise a network roll out. Although launched just two years ago, Better Place claims it will start activating networks country-by-country by 2010.

Source: Better Place

Barrett-Jackson 2009: The Corvettes

Corvettes have always been well represented at Barrett-Jackson, and with GM's Heritage Collection added to the list, there are plenty of interesting 'Vettes set to cross the auction block. Among the collection is a one-off 1997 Corvette Tiger Shark concept, a 1989 Corvette Snake Skinner that sold for $176,000 on Wednesday, and the very first ZR-1 built for 1992. If that particular ZR-1 doesn't suit your fancy, there are a few others available including a 1990 coupe and 1993 anniversary model, although they each have to be purchased with a corresponding 2009 model. Some other notable offerings include a C5 chassis display, a 750-horsepower Lingenfelter Corvette, and a beautiful 1967 coupe with a modern Z06 motor and transmission. Browse through the high-res gallery below and pick out your favorite. Note that the gallery is not a full list of the Corvettes at the auction, but does represent some of the better examples.

BMW F 800 GS wins Best Trailie Bike of the Year

It was another successful evening for BMW Motorrad UK at this year’s Motor Cycle News (MCN) Awards, as Europe’s largest and most successful motorcycle manufacturer scooped a brace of honours. The BMW F 800 GS won Best Trailie Bike of the Year while the marque also received a ‘Special Commendation’ in the Accessories category for its Lowered Suspension Option, available on almost a third of its motorcycle range.
The awards, which took place at the Carole Nash International Motorcycle and Scooter Show at the NEC in Birmingham, are widely considered to be the most prestigious awards for the motorcycle industry, recognising success in all areas of motorcycling.

The all-new all-terrain F 800 GS completely lives up to its illustrious GS (Gelande Strasse) heritage, all at a very affordable price. This recent addition to the BMW range has surpassed the expectations of even the most demanding enduro riders and, not surprisingly, has quickly caught the public’s imagination.The awards, which took place at the Carole Nash International Motorcycle and Scooter Show at the NEC in Birmingham, are widely considered to be the most prestigious awards for the motorcycle industry, recognising success in all areas of motorcycling.

The all-new all-terrain F 800 GS completely lives up to its illustrious GS (Gelande Strasse) heritage, all at a very affordable price. This recent addition to the BMW range has surpassed the expectations of even the most demanding enduro riders and, not surprisingly, has quickly caught the public’s imagination.

Chrysler "Driving America" With 0% Financing, following $1.5 Billion Loan

Chrysler Financial is back in action following the approval of $1.5 billion in Federal loans, sourced from the $700 billion financial bailout. To celebrate, the automaker is beginning a new 0% financing promotion for up to 60 months starting tomorrow. The incentive will be available on 2008 and 2009 models in hopes that it will spark more showroom traffic to help offset a dismal December.

"Dealers told us after December that not having Chrysler Financial cost us 20 to 25 percent sales," said Steven Landry, executive vice president for North American sales and service, to Automotive News. "We could see a significant lift."

Chrysler will publicize the promotion with a "Driving America" campaign that starts next week, though it should be noted that leasing a new Dodge or Chrysler through Chrysler Financial is still off the table.

Although the conditions of the financing offer vary by vehicle, here are the vehicles included:

• Chrysler Town & Country
• Chrysler 300
• Chrysler 300C
• Jeep Grand Cherokee
• Jeep Commander
• Jeep Wrangler
• Dodge Grand Caravan
• Dodge Charger
• Dodge Magnum
• Dodge Challenger
• Dodge Ram (regular and Heavy Duty)

Don't expect this to be the last low-interest loan promotion from Chrysler in the near future. The $1.5 billion is just a transitional loan until the Federal Reserve starts a "far larger consumer-lending program," according to Automotive News.

Barrett-Jackson 2009: 1951 Willys Jeep

Before this 1951 Willys Jeep went on the auction block, we thought it was little more than a curiosity among the more prestigious and rare hardware lining the halls at Barrett-Jackson. Apparently, we were wrong. The little ex-military GP vehicle sold for a staggering $104,500 after all was said and done, and it's certainly a fine example of the genre, with its period-specific detailing and high-quality frame-off restoration. Perhaps it sold so well because of the show that the vehicle put on as it was being driven on stage, with its siren startling those in attendance just a few minutes before its propane and oxygen powered "gun" caused a few hearts to skip a beat.

Suzuki launch new XC range

Suzuki GB is offering a refreshing alternative for Hare and Hounds and Cross-Country riders this winter, with the introduction of the two-stroke RM XC range.Available in 125 and 250 versions, the new XC models are derived from the hugely popular and established RM range, boasting everything a Hare and Hounds or Cross-Country rider needs, featuring a larger capacity fuel tank, hand guards, O-ring chain and a Relentless Fast Eddy replica graphics kit.

Talking about the introduction of these models was Suzuki GB's George Cheeseman, who commented, "This element of the sport is not only a growing area, but also a discipline that is close to many of us at Suzuki. We appreciate the demand for bikes that are more focussed for this sport, while recognising that many riders do not require full-spec enduro bikes with the additional registration and road fund costs. With the XC range, we are able to offer a proven machine that is a focussed but cost effective alternative to the usual choices."

Available from all authorised off-road Suzuki dealers, with just a £200 increase in retail price over the standard models, the RM125XC has a recommended retail price of £3920 and the 250XC will be £4210 inc VAT.

The RM125 and 250XC models will be used by Relentless Suzuki Enduro rider, Paul Edmondson (Fast Eddy), at various events in the forthcoming season.

Source: Suzuki

Collection of Corvette ZR-1s (and ZR1s) to Cross the Block at Barrett-Jackson

The Corvette ZR-1 and ZR1 are rare cars, but you wouldn't know it looking at this year's line-up at the annual Barrett-Jackson auction in Scottsdale, AZ. 12 Classic ZR-1s and two brand-new ZR1s have crossed or are preparing to cross the block at the collector car auction.

As of this writing, seven vintage ZR-1s have already crossed the block, going for $25,300 to $176,000. Of them, four were privately owned (Lot #s 91, 353, 644.1 and 760), low-mile originals, the best of which was a red 1990 model with only 2,500 miles on the clock that went for $66,000. The other three came from GM's Heritage Collection, which the company is selling off both to raise cash and save money on storing the massive number of vehicles in its collection. The first was the 1990 Active Suspension Prototype (Lot #82), the first car on which GM experimented with an early form of active suspension. It sold for $150,700. Later, one of the 83 1989 model ZR-1s that GM built for press fleets and car shows but never released to the public sold for $110,000 (Lot #96).

The star of the early ZR-1s at the auction is the 1989 "Snake Skinner" car that John Heinricy and company built to demonstrate the Corvette's supremacy (Lot #396.1). It features a special 475-hp LT5 DOHC V-8 built by Mercury Marine for the project and is just one of 83 models made in 1989. The white "Snake Skinner," so-named for its domination of Mustang Cobras and Dodge Vipers, sold for $176,000.

Later tonight, two more Corvettes will cross the block, this time being sold together. They are a brand-new 2009 ZR1 in limited production Cyber Gray and a 1993 40th Anniversary ZR-1, number 250 of only 448 built. The maroon car hails from the year that the ZR-1's power was upgraded from a stout 375 hp to an impressive 405 hp. Since they're being sold as a package deal (Lot #s 1021 and 1021.1), expect them to fetch a hefty premium.

The fun won't end with the work week, either. On Saturday, the last four ZR-1s and the other ZR1 cross the block. Of them, two are privately owned (Lot #s1261 and1344.2), with one holding the distinction of being the first ZR-1 off the assembly line for the 1992 model year. Another ZR-1 is another of the 83 press cars built in 1989 and never released to the public (Lot #1230.4). The final two are being sold as another package deal by a dealer. One is a red 1990 model -- the first year for the ZR-1 - with only 310 miles on the clock and the other is a brand-new yellow 2009 ZR1 (Lot #s 1332 and 1332.1). Again, expect this duo to be the big seller for the day.

The 2009 Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction is just about two-thirds over now and will wrap up on Sunday. All of the cars sold so far and awaiting their turn are available for viewing at Barrett-Jackson's website.

Source: Barrett-Jackson

BMW 320d Winter Concept with 199HP by Miranda-Series

German tuner Miranda-Series has introduced a new winter sport package for the pre-facelift BMW 320d. Starting off from the bimmer's 2.0-liter 4-cylinder turbo diesel engine, Miranda-Series has optimized the car's ECU raising output by 22HP to 199HP. Other improvements include the Eibach Pro-Street-S coilover suspension and the Stop-Tech brakes with 6-piston brake calipers and 355x32mm slotted discs.

The modified 320d now rides on new, black colored, 19-inch alloy wheels that are wrapped in winter sports Dunlop tires available in two sizes, 235/35-19 and 265/30-19. The winter sport package is completed with a set of front passenger Recaro bucket seats. Even though the modifications are relatively subtle, there's nothing subtle about the price for the complete package as it has been set at €13,544 -approximately $17,720 with today's exchange rates.

Honda to Shut Down UK Swindon Plant until June!

Matters are going from worse to bad for the workers at Honda's Swindon plant as, in addition to halting production in February and March, the Japanese automaker has extended the temporary shutdown of its U.K. factory for the months of April and May. "The global financial situation has continued to affect consumer confidence in the car market," Honda of the UK Manufacturing (HUM) said in a statement on Friday. The announcement from Honda was met with dismay by Unite, the UK's largest union.

"This latest, additional shutdown underlines the urgent need for state assistance for our car industry," said Derek Simpson, joint general secretary for Unite. "With demand for Honda's products collapsed and a plunge in this year's production figures, one of our leading plants must stand idle for four months."

"Now, the Honda workforce is facing a 50 percent cut in wages, and are frightened for their jobs and futures. They, along with the rest of the car and components industry, desperately need to see some form of lifeline being thrown to the sector from the Government. We also need immediate financial support for workers, such as those at Honda, who must take a cut in pay in order to keep their jobs," added Simpson.

Yamaha’s sharp looking XJ6 arrives at Yamaha dealers

Yamaha are delighted to announce the arrival of the XJ6, contender for the middle-weight crown! This all-new Yamaha will entice new customers and experienced riders alike, attracted by its clean and contempory lines, complemented by its strong 600 cc liquid-cooled 4-stroke inline 4-cylinder engine, with all-new internals.
The XJ6 is available now in limited quantities initially at authorised Yamaha dealers, priced at £4499.00 (*not including road fund and first registration fee).

This naked all-rounder delivers a really easy riding experience together with strong all-round performance. A newly designed easy-action clutch makes for smooth gear shifting and the stylish 4-1 exhaust and compact midship muffler give this new 600 a seriously sporty image. The combination of a lightweight tubular diamond-type frame together with 41mm front forks and an efficient Monocross rear suspension system ensure agile handling performance, whether cruising down the motorway or riding spiritedly down your favourite country lane. A low seat height enhances overall controllability at low speeds and an ABS version is available as an option which attracts a retail price* of £4849.00. This version will follow.

Barrett-Jackson 2009: 1982 Pontiac Trans Am K.I.T.T. replica

Well, what do you know? K.I.T.T. was a big hit here at Barrett-Jackson today. We'd never have guessed that there would be enough fans (with money) of the original Knight Rider series here at the auction to drive bidding all the way to $40,000 (add another $4K in fees), but indeed there were. This isn't actually one of the original cars that was used by the Hoff in the '80s, but bits and pieces of it were in fact used in the craptastic new version that our own Mr. Núñez so lovingly mocks each and every week in his hilarious live blog. Not all is lost, though, for fans of the real K.I.T.T., as this is a fully functioning replica, complete with the trademark flashing front strobe lights and two working monitors inside. Plus, how many of your friends have talking cars that are signed by George Barris? None. Perhaps it was worth the dough after all.

Thread of the Day: What Changes Would You Make to a Current Production Car?

No car is perfect for every type of buyer. Some prefer performance over luxury, comfort over styling, brand image over gas savings.... you get the point; the list could go on forever. That being said, designers and engineers aim to please the greatest number of consumers with the least amount of controversy in order to garner the most dealership sales. Since not everyone looks for the same features in a particular model, what kind of changes would you make to an existing -- otherwise perfectly fine -- model in order to suit your needs and desires? We're not talking about putting a 500-plus hp GM Performance crate motor in an Aveo or boosting your Dodge Viper's power to 1000-hp through a fantasy Mopar twin-turbo kit. We're looking for practical, more sensible options/improvements the factory could have offered its variety of buyers. As an example, TOTD author atvman says he would have preferred a 2010 Ford Mustang GT500 with an all-aluminum 5.4L V-8 instead of the cast iron 5.4L unit. An updated independent rear suspension in place of the antiquated, yet useful for some, live rear axle would be great as well, atvman explains. Other examples included a 2010 Jaguar XK with all-wheel-drive and a lighter, more performance tuned 135i (which is rumored to already be in the works).

Nostalgically Trimmed 2009 Dodge Challenger R/T Classic on Sale from $34,005

As if the new 2009 Challenger isn't already the embodiment of retro design, Dodge has launched a new version of the coupe called "Classic" that adds more nostalgic flavor to the reborn muscle car. Based on the Challenger R/T with Chrysler's 5.7-liter V8 Hemi that delivers 376HP when paired to a six-speed manual and 372HP with an automatic transmission, the Classic is available for order now with a starting price of $34,005 which includes a $725 destination fee.

So what's so special about the Challenger R/T Classic? Well, on the outside it sports heritage-inspired dual-wide body-side R/T stripes, 'Challenger' fender badging in classic script, 20-inch polished-chrome heritage alloy wheels with all-season performance tires, classic egg-crate grille with a heritage 'R/T' badge, body-color rear spoiler and a chromed fuel-filler door.

Buyers will be able to choose from a palette of six colors: Brilliant Black Crystal Pearl, Bright Silver Metallic, Stone White and three Dodge heritage colors-HEMI(R) Orange, TorRed and B5 Blue.

From London to Timbuktu... via Parajet SkyCar?

You know that saying, "From here to Timbuktu?" Apparently the people at Parajet do, and the 'here' in this case will be London. You see, the British flying car maker decided to use that phrase quite literally to show the world that their paragliding dune buggy can actually, well, fly. They've launched an expedition that will take them from London to Timbuktu, driving where they have roads available, and flying wherever they don't.

We first told you about the Parajet Skycar journey in November but now the adventure has officially launched. A Parajet Skycar took off from London, and the plan is to fly over France, Spain, Morocco and the Sahara, then – God-willing – arrive in the Malian capital of Timbuktu sometime in February. When we saw the Parajet Skycar at the Goodwood Festival of Speed last summer, we learned that it makes use of a biofuel-powered Yamaha motorcycle engine to power either the rear wheels when ground-bound, or an airboat-type caged propeller when taking flight.

It needs just 200 meters of runway and has a cruising speed of (just) 68 miles-per-hour at 3,000 feet, but the Skycar can reportedly reach altitudes of 15,000 feet. Thankfully, parachutes are included. When driving, the car has a top speed of 108 mph and a range of 240 miles. We'll try to keep you posted about their progress, but check out the iMOTORTV clip we found of the Parajet Skycar in action, after the jump.

[Source: The Telegraph]

Toyota 2000GT Replica Based on Nissan 240Z with GT-R Engine

At last weekend's Tokyo Salon 2009, Mr. Makoto Kobayash and his company Road Star Garage from Aichi, Japan, launched their latest Toyota 2000GT replica, this time based on the 1970's Datsun Fairlady Z S30 - known in most markets as the 240Z and later as 260Z and 280Z. Whereas the original 1965 Toyota 2000GT used a 2.0-liter, naturally aspirated, straight six producing around 150HP, Road Star Garage fitted the replica with a Nissan Skyline GT-R derived and NISMO prepped, twin-turbocharged RB26 N1 six-cylinder unit.

The Japanese firm hasn't published any performance or output figures, but understandably, this replica holds a mighty punch under its hood. As some might remember, Road Star Garage also produces a Toyota 2000GT convertible based on the underpinnings of the Mazda MX-5 / Miata - see here.

Carscoop thanks Mr. Makoto Kobayash for the Tokyo Show Photos

Link: Road Star Garage

South Side Performance introduces 820 hp turbo upgrade for Nissan GT-R

Most of this week's Nissan GT-R tuning news has been coming out of the Tokyo Auto Salon, but South Side Performance is making its own headlines. The tuning firm based in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, is offering a set of upgraded stock turbochargers for the GT-R that have the potential to boost output to 820 hp when used in conjunction with other (undisclosed) performance modifications.

The upgrade consists of swapping out the stock turbos' center section with remachined compressor and turbine housings, sized 68mm and 53.8mm, respectively. The aluminum compressor wheel is good for up to 32 psi of boost, and since the basic hardware remains, the swap appears to be a simple bolt-on affair. According to South Side, the turbos make more power at stock boost levels and provide a linear power band throughout the rev range.

GT-RR.com is distributing the GTR820RR kit for South Side, and owners can send their stock turbos and $6,499 for the upgrade, with an approximate turnaround time of one week. Of course, the next question is: how will the stock clutches and transmission hold up to the additional power? Check out the images of the setup in the gallery below and hit the jump for the press release.

Big dollar cars don't meet reserves at RM's Arizona auction

Across town from Barrett-Jackson at the Bitmore Resort, RM Auctions held its "Automobiles of Arizona" auction highlighted by several multi-million dollar cars including a one-of-five 1963 Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport and a past Pebble Beach winner 1937 Bugatti 57SC Atalante Coupe (much like the one that was recently found in a barn). Unfortunately, neither car saw a bid that met the reserve price, perhaps an indication that current economic conditions are finally catching up with the high-end collector car market. The Grand Sport went unsold with a top bid of $5 million, and the Bugatti failed to meet its reserve with a high bid of $4.4 million. A 1958 Ferrari 250 GT Tour de France also went unsold with a top bid of $1.8 million. One notable car that did find a new owner was the 1954 Dodge Firearrow III Concept with the hammer falling at $800,000 before auction fees. There were plenty of other beautiful cars that did sell, and you can check out the full list at RM's web site.

Ford Ka to the U.S.? Maybe, maybe not

When Ford introduced the world to its latest Ka microcar last year at the Paris Motor Show, we had serious doubts as to whether the diminutive little hatch would ever make it over to the United States. A few months have passed, and we're still left wondering. A few days after the car's first appearance, it was said that Blue Oval CEO Alan Mulally would like to see the Ka make it Stateside, and now news comes that the man at the helm is still championing the car's U.S. arrival. Still, no matter how much Mulally may want to see the Ka in Ford's home country, the final decision reportedly lies with Derrick Kuzak, who is said to disagree with his boss's opinion that it would sell in sufficient quantities in America. What's the problem? Remember that the Ka is built overseas and is an inexpensive machine, so there are serious questions as to whether it could possibly be profitable in the U.S.

Detroit 2009: Volvo S60 Concept introduces 4-cylinder EcoBoost

Volvo rolled out a new concept sedan here that previews the next generation of its mid-size S60 sedan. The swoopy sedan has almost coupe-like proportions with its flowing back-light and curves that a 240 fan would never recognize as a Volvo. Most important is what's under the hood. The 1.6L four cylinder is a preview of Ford's first small displacement EcoBoost engine. With direct injection and turbocharging, the 1.6L mill produces 180 hp and scores a combined 47 mpg (U.S.). Carbon dioxide emissions are a mere 119g/km. In addition to the GTDI engine, the S60 is equipped with automatic start/stop, a dual clutch 6-speed gearbox, electric power steering and a grille shutter. That last element closes off air-flow to radiator when not needed and reduces aerodynamic drag. The new engine is due to start production later in 2009 for European Fords and we'll probably see it here eventually.

Tokyo Auto Salon 2009: The best from TAS, but first...

With the Detroit Auto Show finally winding down, we can turn our attention to the east (or west, depending on your continental perspective) to take in the motoring madness and engineering wizardry coming out of the 2009 Tokyo Auto Salon.

Each year, Japan's top tuners descend on the Makuhari Messe to show their wares to the public and press, and with over a year to develop, modify and produce components for the Mitsubishi Evolution X, Subaru Impreza WRX STI and the new darling of the aftermarket scene – the Nissan GT-R – this year's show had the potential to trump anything we've seen out of Tokyo in the last decade. By many accounts, it did, and with the help of Autoblog Chinese and some of our favorite JDM-obsessed sites, we'll be bringing you the best TAS has to offer.

Since we'll be focusing almost exclusively on the products that make you go faster and stick harder, we'll get the weird out of the way right now. Behold the NATS GT-K. Captured by our friends at LeBlogAuto, the GT-K is based on the Suzuki Cappuccino, and aside from the GT-R duds, the Kei car features a modified version of the 657cc DOHC inline-three equipped with a larger turbo and intercooler, along with a coilover suspension, upgraded brakes and a set of gloriously hideous 18-inch chrome wheels. We were able to keep our dinner down long enough to look at NATS' 911-inspired Cappuccino, at which point we grabbed the nearest trash can and heaved away. Ambition: 1. Execution: 0. More to follow. Stay tuned...

Soon, we’ll see if the new Camaro has the tricks to last

By its spec sheet., The 2010 Chevrolet Camaro looks like the final evolution of the pony car. The big question is if there is enough buyer’s pony-car for support over the long haul.

The gasoline cost $ 2.30 per gallon when the world has gone ga-ga over the Camaro concept of the exhibition automatic Detroit in January 2006. She made more than the average $ 4.00 nationally on July 21, when Chevrolet unveiled the Camaro production at its technology center in Warren, Michigan. Most projections suggest $ 5.00 per gallon before the car hits showrooms in spring 2009.

With the transition in gas prices and more difficult economic times, car buyers have moved to the practice - and economical fuel. Yet if Chevrolet is expressed concern about the new Camaro, Vice-president Ed Peper of Chevy does not leave.

“We are excited about the launch now because so many people had expected,” Peper said in the statement. “We have style, value and fuel economy which is ahead of the competition.”

VW BlueSport Mid-Engined Roadster Concept with 180HP Diesel Achieves 55MPG

Sporty, good looking and extremely frugal; what else could one ask from a two-seater roadster? VW's long-awaited Concept BlueSport made its debut at the 2009 Detroit Show. Even though the German automaker makes no word of a production version, we're all crossing our fingers that the roadster study will get the green light. Behind the two bucket seats of the 3.99 meter long Concept BlueSport, there's 180HP strong 2.0-liter turbocharged Clean Diesel (TDI) engine that transfers power to the rear-wheels via 6-speed DSG dual clutch transmission.

With this unit that produces 350Nm of torque, the Concept BlueSport can sprint from zero to 60 mph in just 6.2 seconds (0-100 km/h: 6,6 seconds) while its top speed is 140 mph (226 km/h). Even more impressive is the car's excellent fuel economy rating of 55 mpg U.S. (4,3 l/100 km) that is combined with an ultralow CO2 level of 113 g/km CO2. Two features that help the mid-engined, soft-top roadster achieve these figures is the automatic start-stop system and the brake energy regeneration system.

Technical data of the Volkswagen concept car Concept BlueSport

Volkswagen Concept BlueSport
Body / Chassis
Length	3,990 mm
Width	1,745 mm
Height	1,260 mm
Track, front	1,490 mm
Track, rear	1,520 mm
Front suspension	McPherson suspension
Rear suspension	Multi-link system
Engine
Configuration	4 cylinder TDI, 2.0 liter displacement
Max. power at engine speed	132 kW / 180 PS at 4,200 rpm
Max. torque at engine speed	350 Nm at 1,750 rpm
Drivetrain / Wheels
Transmission	6-speed direct shift
Final drive	Rear-wheel drive
Tires, front	235/35 ZR19
Tires, rear	245/35 ZR19
Performance / Economy
0-100 km/h	6.6 seconds
0-60 mph	6.2 seconds
V/max	140 mph / 226 km/h
Fuel consumption (Euro 6)	4.3 liter/100 km / 55 mpg
CO2 emissions*	113 g/km
* in Eco mode: Start-stop & regeneration
Colors
Exterior paint	Flex silver
Convertible top	Orange

Detroit 2009: Lincoln MKT debuts with a big, toothy smile

Ford has a major-league hit on its hands with the 2009 Flex crossover – with the media. Sadly, despite its varied and considerable charms, sales haven't met the Blue Oval's admittedly lofty expectations. Blame the recession, blame the marketing department, blame the Flex's divisive styling, blame what you will, but Dearborn is plainly going to have to find more volume for its D4 platform. Enter the 2010 Lincoln MKT.

It doesn't take more than a brief glance to realize that Ford's stylists have exacted much more than a quick nip/tuck on the rectilinear Flex en-route to minting this new Lincoln. But beyond the crossover's assertive looks, there is a host of new technology on offer inside and out that should help put the MKT on luxury crossover shopping lists. Follow the jump to learn more about the MKT and read Lincoln's official press release.

Citroen's facelifted C1 on Sale in the UK from £7,595

The modestly updated C1 mini car is now on sale in the UK with prices ranging from £7,595 for the entry-level 68HP 1.0-liter petrol version to £9,395 for the 55HP 1.4-liter diesel variant. Featuring a restyled front end, new body colors and trims, as well as lower CO2 emissions and improved fuel economy, the C1 is available in two trims, VT and VTR. Hit the jump for detailed pricing.

2009 CITROEN C1 PRICES
VT	1.0i 12V 68hp 3Dr	£7,595.00
	1.0i 12V 68hp 5Dr	£7,945.00
VTR	1.0i 12V 68hp 3Dr	£8,095.00
	1.0i 12V 68hp 5Dr	£8,445.00
	1.4HDi 55hp 5Dr	£9,395.00

CES 2009: Wireless gadget charging coming to your

You've probably heard of wireless battery charging technology, but soon you might just see it showing up in your car. Fulton Innovation has teamed up with Leggett & Platt to bring eCoupled Intelligent Wireless Power Technology to your mobile phone, MP3 player, radar detector or just about anything else that needs electricity.

Instead of a web of snarled power cords, the eCoupled system charges any enabled gadget resting on the power pad. As in the illustration, enabled devices resting within range of the pad would be juiced up just as if they were plugged in.

Bret Lewis, director of Fulton Innovation, gave us a demo of the eCoupled system Wednesday night. Fulton had outfitted an iPhone and a Motorola Bluetooth headset with an eCoupled coil. Lewis took the two devices, laid them on a wooden bowl and, as if by magic, the two began to charge. The only indication the bowl was anything but dead tree was an electrical cord running from the back. Underneath, the bowl had been hollowed to accommodate a metal plate with the coil inductor. The same type system could easily be incorporated into a car's console or instrument panel.

Ideally, Lewis says, gadget manufacturers would incorporate the technology into portable devices as they're designed. In the real world, of course, there are potentially billions of legacy devices that could benefit from a third-party attachment to allow the wireless batter charging.

But it gets better! Lewis says the system can also transfer data, potentially allowing wireless coupling of music players and mobile phones with you car.

We also spoke with Ross Haith Jr. of Leggett & Platt who let us in on some commercial vehicle projects they have ready to launch as soon as this year. Read about that as well as press releases from the two companies after the jump.

Corvette ZR1

Feel free to read that headline as many times as necessary, but yes, it's true: Clarkson-san wrote "Out of nowhere, my car of the year," the Corvette ZR1. The man who pooped on the spearhead of electric cars has given an American high horsepower pushrod V8 the gold and glory. And this is after comparing the ZR1's predecessors to Big Macs: "Cheap, plastic and at the right time, and in the right place, sort of just what you want."

Not only that, but to put the ZR1 on its pedestal, Clarkson went so far as to remove the Caterham 500 he had previously placed there. On the show, he said that the Caterham was the best of the year, but in his article writes, "However, if you broaden the search engine and look simply for the best car of the year, the Caterham isn't in with a shout because it's ugly and geeky and I wouldn't have one even if the option was the loss of my right testicle."

And so the ZR1 reigns, even though "it's not built very well." In Clarkson's words, it is "both docile and extraordinarily savage," looks good, goes fast in a straight line and around corners, "most of the time bumbles about like a forgetful uncle," and costs "lots for a Corvette" but is a bargain for the performance. His only lament about the car was this: "unless the healthcare and pensions company that makes it can be turned around, it will be the last of the breed." The ZR1 - winning hearts and minds... Hat tip to Pdexter!

Nissan Brings GT-R NISMO Club Sports and 370Z NISMO S-Tune to Tokyo Salon

The NISMO-prepped GT-R and 370Z will be two of fifteen Nissan models to make their way to the Tokyo Auto Salon, which runs January 12-14. While not as exclusive as the GT-R SpecV that was officially revealed on Wednesday -see details here, the GT-R NISMO Club Sports features several improvements over the standard car. Developed collaboratively with the GT-R product development team and Nismo engineers, the GT-R Club Sports most prominent aspect is the Chassis Package.

The pack includes a set of race-spec Bilstein Damptronic adjustable dampers, stiffer front (18.5kg/mm) and rear springs(9.6 kg/mm) and new 20-inch Rays forged aluminum wheels wrapped in Bridgestone RE070R run-flat tires, sized 225/40 and 285/35, front and rear.

Nismo also added a new lightweight titanium exhaust system that removes 11 pounds from the GT-R's overall weight and a set of the carbon fiber backed and leather trimmed manually adjusted bucket seats that save an extra 13 pounds. Nissan supports that at the Sendai Hi-land Raceway, the GT-R NISMO Club Sports outrun the standard GT-R model by a full second

As for the 370Z or as it's called in Japan, Fairlady Z, the NISMO S-tune package features a more rigid body brace, sports suspension and the "Aero Package" body kit.

Land Rovers to get same new diesel V6 as Jaguar XF, but not here

The Jaguar 3.0L V6 diesel engine that we learned about last week will also find a home under the hood of the leaping cats corporate siblings at Land Rover. The Land Rover Discovery (now sold in the US as the LR3) and the Range Rover Sport will both get the V6 in 237 hp and 272 hp flavors, respectively. In AutoCar's report it's not clear if the old 2.7L V6 will be discontinued but it seems likely that it will since the new engine is both more powerful and more fuel efficient. The Land Rovers will reportedly get a single turbocharger configuration rather than the dual turbo setup on the Jags. The new diesel will launch in the SUVs when they are facelifted this fall for the 2010 model year.

[Source: AutoCar]

No Tears: Mitsubishi to Kill Raider Pickup Truck

These days, it seems like every company is killing a model in its line-up. The latest victim of this widespread policy is the Mitsubishi Raider pickup truck that will be discontinued in mid-2010. The Raider, which is nothing more than a rebadged Dodge Dakota, has been on sale in the U.S. since 2005. This year, Mitsubishi saw the Raider's sales plummet 64.5 percent to a mere 2,935 units from 2007. And why not just put the Raider out of its misery right now, you may ask? Well, unfortunately for Mitsubishi, the contract with Chrysler which supplies the pickup truck, ends in 2010.

Via: Autonews

Big Game: 700 horsepower, 2323 lb-ft of torque and... a Volvo badge w/VIDEO

And so, the new, top-secret Volvo S60R should kick a lot of BMW ass. Okay, we kid. Obviously. Those numbers go with the FH16 700 and yes, as you can see, it's a semi - the world's most powerful, according to Volvo Trucks. It replaces the FH16 660 as the company's range-topping long-haul model, and at the heart of the matter is the D16G engine. In addition to the 700 horsepower variety, this 16-liter six-cylinder diesel also comes in 600 hp and 540 hp flavors. Volvo says it's quieter and more efficient than its predecessor, as well as being clean enough to meet the Euro 5 emissions standards that are scheduled to take effect later this year. Three cab styles are offered, each of which can be rather nicely appointed from the looks of things. So, if you have the need to, say, move EuroDisney from Paris to Geneva, load up a few of these bad boys and you ought to be good to go. Click on the jump to check out the FH16 700's official video game and see video of the truck in action.

Pulp Fiction: Zolfe Orange comes back from the drawing board

Britain has a rich heritage in niche sportscars, but unfortunately for American customers, few of them end up making it over to the Colonies. The oddly-named Zolfe Orange, however, stands as a unique exception. We first reported on the Zolfe Orange two years ago, when it was set to enter production under Suzuki Hyabusa power. But a lack of space and other concerns sent the lightweight GT back to the drawing board, finally to re-emerge, and all the better for it.

The revised Zolfe Orange now incorporates Ford-sourced engines, starting with a 2.3-liter Duratec driving an entirely respectable 185 horsepower to the rear wheels via the Mazda MX-5's five-speed manual. More powerful engines, a six-speed manual or an available automatic, and a limited-slip differential will be offered, promising to deliver strong performance from the composite body draped over a spaceframe chassis that weighs 1543 pounds. The project is lead by Nic Strong of British Midlands plastics manufacturer Spatz Arlon and former Caterham engineering chief Jez Coates, benefiting from additional input from other cottage automakers through the Niche Vehicle Network. AP supplies the brakes, Avon the tires and the interior ergonomics were benchmarked against the Audi TT. Best of all, the first year's run of 30 vehicles are almost all earmarked for the American market, so if you've got £27,500 (approximately $42k in greenbacks) on hand and are looking for something a little different, the juicy little Orange may be your kinda squeeze

Very Collectible Trucks Offered at Barrett-Jackson, from GM Heritage Collection

This year’s Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale Auction can be summed up in this way: GM Heritage Collection Customized Show Vehicles, GM Heritage Collection Production Milestone Vehicles, GM Heritage Collection Engineering Studies, GM Heritage Collection Historic Vehicles, GM Heritage Collection Racing and Support Vehicles, a Ford 4-AT-E Tri-Motor Airplane (yes, they are auctioning off a significant historical Airplane!), and the remaining cars left to be auctioned. After going over the inventory listing that Barrett-Jackson plans on offering over the week long extravaganza in Scottsdale, I was truly amazed at the number of slots the Heritage Collection occupies. There are over 250 vehicles from the collection that GM needs to sell off.

This isn’t the way for GM to get top dollar for any of them, so the following prime trucks should be available at rock bottom prices. However, the Barrett-Jackson organization seems to have the magic touch as far as getting the most money for the vehicles they offer, so who knows.

The top photo showcases a 1925 Chevrolet House Car, and is scheduled for the Tuesday Auction. This was built on the Chevrolet 1-Ton chassis. Before motor homes were available commercially, many campers produced in the early days were built around plans supplied to a carpenter or cabinet maker. It rides on a 125″ wheel bass with a 171cid/35hp 4 cylinder engine and 6 volt electrical system. The custom built wood body has oak with mahogany trim, maple floor and counter tops, dark blue mohair cushions, dark blue wool carpet, dark blue roller shades with blue and white gingham curtains, a sink with hand pump water faucet using 5 gallon oak barrel for water storage, a commode with removable bucket for waste, auto flip down front step, interior 6 volt electrical lights and kerosene lamps, interior kerosene heater, single burner kerosene stove, and toll fee payment door. This is a piece that deserves preserving.

The next image is that of a 1916 GMC 1 ton Stake Bed Truck. This truck includes a 4 cylinder engine producing 33 horsepower. These had shaft drive and worm drive. There is very little information about this particular truck, but again, it’s worth preserving for future generations.

Continuing on, here is another significant GMC. It is a 1948 GMC Firetruck, and utilizes the first post-war styled body for GMC. According to the listing, GMC offered 347 different body and chassis models. This particular fire truck was part of the Pontiac, Michigan GMC Truck Plant Fire Brigade. This should find a home, and will be very interesting to see what the final bid price will be.

SUVs became quite popular in the mid 80’s right up to this past summer. This next truck is actually part of the foundation for their success. It is a 1978 GMC Suburban, featuring a body style introduced in 1973. This GMC Suburban has tri-tone stripes on its exterior and the custom interior of the super-graphics era of American Design. How can you not love a truck from the 70’s?

Any history about GMC Trucks would not be complete without a couple of real performance trucks. And at this auction, there are two such examples. The first is a 1991 GMC Syclone PPG Pace Truck, that saw track usage at many venues and is a great example of the now legendary first super truck. The second truck is equally as impressive and it’s a 1993 GMC Typhoon. This one-year-only GMC Typhoon represented a highwater mark for high performance compact sport utility trucks. With its conservatively rated 280hp blown and intercooled V6 and AWD, the Typhoon could easily cover a 1/4 mile in under 14.3 seconds and accelerate from 0-60 in less than 6.0 seconds with little effort and with its specially tuned suspension. it handled as well as it looked. Classy and comfortable, this polite street brawler is the last one built.

Scion xB Release Series 6.0: The first limited-edition Scion

Scion today announced that it will show its first limited-production car at the 2009 North American International Auto show in Detroit next week. The new Scion xB Release Series 6.0 will make its world debut next week and will be available at dealers starting next month.

The 2009 xB Release Series 6.0 comes in an Absolutely Red exterior paint with a custom black finish front grille and Release Series wheel covers. A rear-spoiler is available as an option. Inside, the limited-edition xB features a touch-screen Pioneer Audio Visual Navigation headunit with flash memory, voice recognition, MSN Direct, and Bluetooth. The AVN unit supports USB, SD card, and iPod connectivity. The 5.8-inch high-resolution WVGA LCD touch display allows the passenger and driver to play DVDs and iPod videos.

Other cool features include color-tuned four-in-one interior lights, RS 6.0 illuminated door sills, and accented interior trim and color-tuned seat fabric. Each unit comes with a numbered badge.

Scion will built on 2,500 units of the xB RS 6.0 with pricing to start at $17,493 with a manual transmission and $18,443 for the automatic.

Audi Photos Show Up on the Web...Is this the 2010 Audi A8?

The Audi A8 is definitely one of the oldest cars in Audi's lineup and a redesign is in the works. The forum Gulf4Cars has posted a few photos of what we can expect the 2010 Audi A8 to look like, but the main question is are these photos real or just photo shopped.

If these photos are indeed real, the next A8 is going to feature a more evolutionary redesign. The front of the cars features the same grille that we've now used to from Audi mated to new headlights that are similar to the rest of the new Audi lineup. The rear end also features taillights that are very similar to the new A4 and A6.

Tokyo Auto Salon 2009: GTRBlog Visits Zele International

We are well and truly in the lead up to the biggest Japanese tuner show of the year, Tokyo AutoSalon, now. Today we paid a pre-TAS visit to one of my favourite workshops, Zele International.

Zele have two workshops not far from Tokyo. The first is at Atsugi while the main showroom is situated in Yokohama. We went to their Yokohama workshop to meet with Zele’s President, Satoshi Kamata-san to discuss their AutoSalon plans and plans for the sale of the new Zele Complete Edition package which is making it’s public debut in Japan at the show on Friday.

As already revealed, just eight Zele Complete Edition cars will be built. They are available to anyone worldwide with the caveat that you ship your GT-R to the Zele Yokohama workshop for the work to be carried out.

While many of the Zele Performance parts like the front bumper, side skirts and rear underspoiler are available through dealers, the key Zele Complete Edition dry carbon pieces will at this time, not be available to buy outside the Complete Edition full car package. This includes, the dry carbon front bumper (not including the regular FRP front bumper), the dry carbon rear wing, the dry carbon side mirrors and the dry carbon roof.

While we were there we got to check out both the Type-1 and Type-2 FZ-Titanium exhaust systems. The Type-1 was installed on the Zele Complete Edition demo car. The video below is what the FZ-Titan Type-1 exhaust sounds like on the FZ-ROM ECU Type-3 (550ps) tuned GT-R.

The FZ-Titan Type-2 exhaust is also an option on the Zele Complete Edition package. This more conventional looking quad outlet exhaust is of the best quality possible. We took a set of detailed photos for those undecided on which exhaust to go for on their GT-R.

Last but not least we got some exclusive photos of the last optional item on the Zele Complete Edition package not yet seen by the public. We will be posting those in the next 24hrs so stick around to find out what it is.

For those interested in meeting up with the NAGTROC and GTRBlog teams, we’ll be holding a meetup at TAS on Friday the 9th of January from 3:00pm - 3:30pm at the Zele International booth (#215) at Tokyo AutoSalon 2009.

Motorcyclists celebrate opening of London bus lanes

There are plenty of happy campers in London now that the city's bus lanes have been opened up to motorcyclists looking to ride safely while saving a little time and using a bit less fuel. To celebrate Transport for London's recent decision, a group consisting of local Honda motorcycle dealers, members of the Motorcycle Industry Association, the Institute of Advanced Motorists, the British Motorcyle Federation and the Metropolitan Police BikeSafe squad decided to take a first commemorative ride through the city, ending at the historic Ace Café in Wembley.

Pro-motorcycling groups have created a Code of Conduct that all cyclists are urged to follow while using the bus lanes. As it is, just 5 percent of London's roads are made up of red bus lanes, but the impact on the city's traffic should be much larger. It's hoped that if things go well over the 18-month trial period that the Mayor of London has instituted, other London boroughs may make similar allowances for bikers.

Mercedes-Benz pays $28.9m in fines for fuel efficiency crimes

According to the NHTSA, more than $37 million in fines were collected last year for cars sold in 2007 from manufacturers that failed to meet current CAFE standards. Of the six manufacturers that paid fines, Mercedes-Benz was hit the hardest, racking up an astounding $28.9 million bill that was paid in December. That's a huge figure, especially in this troubled automotive market, but it's actually a bit smaller than the $30.3 million fine paid by DaimlerChrysler the previous year -- a figure that still holds the record. Go Daimler!

Other marques that failed to meet CAFE requirements included Volkswagen, which was hit with a $4.5 million sum, along with Porsche and Maserati, both of which paid fees of $1.2 million and Ferrari, which managed to skate by with a relatively paltry $1.1 million fine.

With increasingly strict regulations expected in the near future, these fines don't exactly bode well for the manufacturers of higher-end luxury vehicles, and the fact that the timing for these requirements is still undecided makes it even tougher to plan for them.

[Source: Detroit Free Press]

Home Send us a tip Contact Us Buzz Garage 2008 LA Auto Show Live Coverage Latest Headlines * - 2010 Cadillac SRX Revealed Before

After raking up the 2009 Motor Trend Truck of the Year of award, the 2009 FordF-150 reestablished its leadership in the pickup segment after the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety awarded it 5-stars in crash-test ratings.

Ford says that the 2009 FordF-150 features more standard safety features than any other half-ton truck. Standard safety features include Safety Canopy side curtain air bags, AdvanceTrac with RSC (Roll Stability Control) and a patented “K-bag” seat-mounted air bag.

The 2009 FordF- recently earned 5-star frontal and 5-star side impact crash-test ratings - the highest possible score from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

Ford said that it has more U.S. government 5-star safety-rated vehicles than any other brand and more IIHS “Top Safety Picks” than any other automaker. Just another reason to go Drive One.

GM's Holden to Build New Compact Model Based on Opel Astra & Chevy Cruze

The official teaser sketch you see above gives us our first glimpse of Holden's upcoming, Australian built compact car that will available in late 2010 in both four-door sedan and hatchback versions. The yet unnamed compact model will be based on GM's global Delta small car architecture that underpins the Chevy Cruze as well as the next-generation Opel / Vauxhall / Saturn Astra. It will be GM Holden's first locally produced car beyond the Commodore (sold in the States as the Pontiac G8) since the demise of the Vectra production in 1998.

Local design and engineering work on the Australian vehicle will take place at GM Holden's Port Melbourne headquarters in the State of Victoria. The front-wheel drive model will be offered with an array of 4-cylinder direct injected petrol and diesel engines while Holden said that it is also considering a range of alternative fuel or fuel saving technologies including E85, LPG, CNG and start-stop hybrid capability.

Further details about the compact model including its nameplate, design specifications and pricing will be revealed at a later date.

Production of Holden's second carline at the firm's Elizabeth manufacturing facility in South Australia will start in the third quarter of 2010 with support from the Federal and South Australian Governments. According to GM's Australian subsidiary, the program will require 500 to 600 existing employees at Elizabeth and is estimated to provide 500 to 600 local supplier positions.

GM Holden Chairman and Managing Director, Mark Reuss said the announcement provided opportunity to take a leading role in developing alternative fuel and fuel saving technologies in Australia for Australians. Mr Reuss said the program would be a major contributor to the economy, generating an estimated $70 million to $80 million in wages and $30 million in research and development.

"Together with Government, we are extending the scope and consumer appeal of our local manufacturing efforts," Mr Reuss said. "We have been building Holden cars to suit the needs of Australian motorists for 60 years. These plans build on that tradition. We recognise the needs and desires of motorists are evolving with growing concern around environmental factors and shifting consumer sentiment."

"Just as our leading Commodore range will continue to undergo technological development, this new vehicle will cater for growing demand for smaller cars focussed on economy," Mr Reuss added.

Nissan R35 GT-R SpecV

Last night, at about 11pm Central Time, the new Nissan GT-R SpecV was introduced to the world. With it’s black Opaq paint job and new carbon fibre splitter, it’s sure to get some attention.

The color is in fact more like Midnight Purple II (see my blog about Paul’s GT-R for an example) and this new SpecV brings… a lot less to the table, for a lot more. It comes with new RAYS Engineering wheels that slightly resemble TE37s, and the rear seats are gone. Custom NISMO exhaust and a carbon fiber wing set it off. The requisite SpecV badge has been added (in accordance with the long line of previous V-Specs) and no increase in horsepower has been reported thus far. Expect firmer springs, and better handling.

The rarity of this car only sets its beauty off more, with only seven dealers in Japan selling the car.

Wondering what it takes to get into the club? Well, it’s not available in the U.S. (as of yet), but in Japan you’ll have to dig deep and pull out 15,750,000 Yen, which is roughly $173,000 U.S. dollars.

BMW recalls 200,000 vehicles over issue with front passenger air bag

BMW is recalling 200,000 units of its 3 Series, 5 Series and X3 SUVs to repair potentially faulty air bag sensors. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration website says the recall campaign covers 2004-2006 5 Series, 2004-2006 X3 and 2006 3 Series vehicles, though only those equipped with sport seats.

Apparently the problem is with the front passenger sport Seat that, over time, develops cracks in its covering. An air bag sensor beneath the area can then be damaged so that the car no longer senses the weight of a passenger. That means, of course, the passenger airbag might not be deployed in an accident.

BMW is doing the right thing by quickly addressing the issue even though no accidents or incidents have been reported in relation to the problem. Also, according to NHTSA, the company will extend the warranties of several of BMW models to cover the issue for 10 years with no mileage restriction. A summary of the recall No. 08V384000 is available here from NHTSA.

It’s Truck Day (from the GM Heritage Collection) at Barrett-Jackson

These are some of the tacky trucks that will be auctioned off for the GM Heritage Center. Most of them will be available on Tuesday, January 13, with a sprinkling available during the rest of the event right up through Sunday January 18th. Most of the trucks illustrated are one-off custom jobs, with wild paint, jacked up, or lowered, non production wheels, and questionable taste.

Many were commissioned for SEMA, or were done as a cooperative venture. All I know is that these trucks are all pretty wild, and I will be surprised if Barrett Jackson doesn’t get top dollar for each of them. So without further ado, here are some of the contestants:

You will notice that the top image is a “Tonka” truck, but i never realized that this was a 1999 Chevrolet Silverado. It still looks good, if a little garish. However, the next truck actually tosses good taste right out the window. It is a 2007 Chevrolet 3500 Silvarado titled “Country Music”. The use of chrome, and the rather tasteless decals can easily be removed. There is few details as to who commissioned it, or what it was used for.

Here is a current generation Silverado, done up to look like a roadside assistance vehicle. There is almost every piece of gingerbread hung on this thing, so much so that there will be a lot of reconstructive surgery to bring it back to something useful.

Speaking of show trucks, this one is made up to proclaim the advantages in using E85. Remember the Live Green, Go Yellow campaign GM used to showcase their Flex Fuel vehicles? Here’s what’s left of that experiment.

How about this one? A collaborative effort between GM and the Orange County Chopper team inspired this one-of-a-kind chromed, slammed and flat out sinister looking Silverado. Powered by a LS7 7.0 Liter/505hp Gen IV V8 with GM Performance Rockers. It also features custom OCC inspired wheels/tires, chopper-like “Big & Littles” that are 22″ x 9″ on the front and 20″ x 16″ rear. The bed also features a custom engine rack with four H & L Performance 124cid engines, a twin chopper “fuel tank” bed, OCC tribal flames on grille/tailgate and Billet OSRC mirrors. Isn’t this show canceled yet?

The next truck is actually kind of cool, as it’s a re-interpretation of the classic K5 2 door full size Blazer. This special was built off a chopped 2000 Tahoe, and has an open-air rear cargo bed with removable carbon-fiber top and 180-degree rearward opening rear doors. It actually looks production ready!

I’m a sucker for the really big trucks, and I will leave you with this image. It’s a 2003 GMC C7500 Topkick Crew Cab, including an aluminum Rollback Car Carrier. It’s truly a good looking recovery vehicle.

2009 Aprilia SMV 750 Dorsoduro makes U.S. debut

The supermoto genre may have initially emerged when people began spooning 17-inch wheels and tires from road-going sportbikes in place of the larger-diameter hoops with knobbies that their dirtbikes came with from the factory, but things have certainly diverged from there. There's a big difference between single-cylinder machines like the Suzuki DR-Z400SM and much larger bikes like the Ducati Hypermotard, despite the fact that both platforms are said to fulfill a similar purpose. Aprilia recently joined the ranks of manufacturers going after the higher-end supermoto category, and the SMV 750 Dorsoduro is finally set to join the firm's other lighter-weight supermoto machine, the SXV550, in the American market.

Aprilia's self-developed liquid-cooled V-Twin engine displaces 750cc in this application and offers up 92-horsepower, making it a natural competitor for the air-cooled 1100cc Hypermotard from Ducati. Suspension and braking bits are suitably up to the task, with 43mm inverted front forks holding wave-shaped disc brakes clamped by radial calipers. Wheelies and stoppies are sure to ensue. Get yours now in either black or red for $9,599.

Euro-spec Honda Insight rated at 53 mpg (US), 101 g/km CO2

As the clock runs down to the official unveiling of Honda's new Insight for 2009, more information is leaking out of Europe, this time directly from Honda. A new brochure covering the entire European lineup, including the Insight, has gone live on the Honda Belgium site. According to the brochure, the new Insight's 1.3L engine is rated at 87 hp in European trim and it's paired up with a 13 hp motor in the IMA system. On the EU test cycle, the new hybrid is rated at a combined 53 mpg (US) while emitting just 101 g/km of CO₂.

We had an opportunity to drive the US-spec Insight just before Christmas but we can't tell you anything else about it right now. For that you'll have to wait until 9am EST Sunday morning. Come back then to read all about the Insight and stick around for our full coverage of the Detroit Auto Show. Thanks to Julian for the tip!

Project Kahn's Tastly Modified Rolls Royce Phantom Drophead Coupe

Unless you're a fan of 'Pimp my Ride', there are only so many mods one can perform to a Rolls Royce Phantom Drophead Coupe without making it look like a rice-racer. Project Kahn, tuning specialist of all expensive and exotic vehicles, knows this all too well. Their subtle tuning proposal for the convertible Phantom limits the exterior changes to 22-inch alloy wheels (two different designs) and the polished front radiator grille. For the interior, Project Kahn adds a Rolls Royce Logo embossed in the front headrests, elm cluster veneer wood fascia panels, piano black steering wheel spokes and an iPod connector.

Fisker Sunset Concept coming to Detroit

Our friend JF from Fast Lane Daily tipped us on a new Fisker concept that will debut at the 2009 Detroit Auto Show. Known as the Fisker Sunset, the concept will be revealed alongside the production version of the Fisker Karma plug-in hybrid sedan.

Little detail is known about the Fisker Sunset, but from what we gather we’re going to say that it’s a convertible version of the Fisker Karma (hence the Sunset badge). Earlier this year, Fisker showed a teaser of a convertible version of the Karma hybrid sedan that it said will also the basis for a Fisker Karma coupe.

Fisker is expected to use the same architecture and drivetrain from the Karma hybrid sedan. We’ll bring you more details from the 2009 Detroit Auto Show next month.

Smart recalls ForTwo for bad paint, which could lead to loss of windshield or roof

Of all the possible reasons that a vehicle could be recalled, a poor paint job doesn't at first seem all that newsworthy. After all, cars could theoretically be recalled for exploding gas tanks, runaway engines or any number of horror-inducing problems. Bad paint? No harm, no foul -- just take it back and have it repainted properly. Unless, of course, that paint problem could lead to the loss of your windshield or roof while driving. This is exactly the worry that the NHTSA has with 43 Smart ForTwo's, all sold in 2008. It seems that some adhesive was laid over the problematic paint, and if the paint lets go... so does the glue. While it's never happened to us personally, we tend to agree with the NHTSA's assessment that the sudden loss of either the glass in front of you or the ceiling protecting your dome could potentially lead to a crash. Anybody who's concerned can contact their dealer, assuming that they haven't already been notified of the problem.

TAS2009: Blitz R35 GT-R Goes Rear Wheel Drive, Manual Gearbox

Tokyo AutoSalon is here today. One of the biggest surprises of the show for many is the Blitz Nissan GT-R. Blitz are developing the Nissan GT-R for the D1 drift series in Japan.

Speaking with a Blitz representative, Kawabata-san, today we have learnt that Blitz have a desire to have Nomuken drive this car in an upcoming D1 season. While they wont commit to a definite date, 2010 was not out of the question.

Blitz have not yet completed the car but the removal of a significant amount of AWD drivetrain has lightened the car considerably. The job’s not completed however so they cannot give a definitive answer on exactly how much.

New on the exterior of the Blitz GT-R for TAS09 is Blitz ZRR suspension, Blitz Carbon Infusion carbon hood, BRW09MAG forged magnesium wheels. The carbon hood is top quality looking item. When we asked if it was dry or wet carbon we were told it was a “carbon infusion". We’ll have to translate the text on their explanation for exactly what that process means.

On the interior we see a custom carbon panel for the gear shifter, the gearbox is a Hollinger sequential unit so no need for a H-Pattern. The A/C is also removed and the controls replaced with a trio of Blitz gauges. The seats remain standard but perhaps a set of Bride seats will find there way to this car, Blitz said.

When asked about engine modifications, Blitz were confident that the standard motor with the full Blitz exhaust would be suitable for the development of the drift car and that no hard core power modifications are planned at this time.

Notice the three pedals in the photo below. This is a first for the R35 GT-R and something many people wanted to see. Dont forget to follow the jump to see the rest of the photos from the Blitz R35 GT-R.

Words/Photos: GTRBlog.com © Usage requires a link to GTRBlog.com

2009 Dodge Challenger Starts at $21,995

For those of us that can't quite afford the $40K for the Dodge Challenger SRT8, Dodge is releasing two cheaper models the 2009 Dodge Challenger SE and R/T models.

The base Dodge Challenger SE starts at $21,995 and is powered by a 3.5L V6 that puts out 250 horsepower and 250 lb-ft. of torque. The engine

is mated to a four-speed automatic transmission and achieves 18 mpg city and 25 mpg on the highway.

The Dodge Challenger R/T starts at $29,995 and is powered by a 5.7L HEMI V8 engine that puts out 370 horsepower and 398 lb-ft of torque when it is mated to the five-speed automatic transmission. When the R/T model is paired with the automatic transmission the engine features multi-displacement (MDS) technology to increase fuel economy by as much as 20 percent. A six-speed manual is available that adds $995 to the price of the R/T, but also bumps up the power to 375 horsepower and 404 lb-ft. of torque.

The top-spec Challenger the SRT8 starts at $39,995 and is powered by a 6.1L HEMI V8 that puts out 425 horsepower and 420 lb-ft. of torque.

Jaguar recalls some XFs for faulty seat belts

If you have a 2009 Jaguar XF, you should hop down to your dealer to have the rear safety belt assembly looked at. Jaguar is recalling 7,900 of the '09 cars because in an accident the rear occupants might not be properly restrained. To find out more you can call Jaguar at 1-800-452-4827, or make an appointment at your local Jaguar dealer.

2010 Jaguar XF Diesel S: 0 to 60 mph in 5.9 seconds and a 35 mpg fuel-economy

• AJ-V6D Gen III S 3.0L twin-turbo diesel with 275-hp and 443 lb-ft torque.
• 0 to 60 mph in 5.9 seconds; top speed of 155 mph.
• Estimated fuel-economy of 42mpg (35 mpg U.S.).

Prior to the launch of the jauger XF-R which is scheduled for the 2009 Detroit Motor Show next month, Jaguar has dropped the details on the new 2010 Jaguar XF Diesel S.

Powered by the most advanced, powerful and efficient Jaguar diesel engine ever, the 275-hp XF V6 diesel can go from 0 to 60 mph in 5.9 seconds and 50 to 70 mph in 3.2 seconds. Even with that performance level, the XF Diesel S averages an estimated fuel-economy of 35 mpg. Jaguar says that it is 12 percent more efficient than the 2.7L V6 diesel XF and offers 33 percent more power and 61 percent more torque. The engine is mated to Jaguar’s 6-speed ZF 6HP28 automatic transmission.

There is also a 240-hp version of the 3.0L diesel engine available as well. It gets 16 percent more power and 15 percent more torque over the 2.7L diesel. 0 to 60 mph comes in just 6.7 seconds while fuel-economy comes in at the same 35 mpg.

Pricing for the 2010 jaguar XF S and the 2010 Jaguar XF Diesel will be announced closer to its launch date. Unfortunately, there is no word whether the models will make it to the U.S. to take on the upcoming BMW 535d.

Honda to Present S2000 and Fit / Jazz Modulo Concepts at 2009 Tokyo Auto Salon

Two new concept cars will be the main attraction at Honda's booth at this weekend's Tokyo Auto Salon 2009 that will be held from Friday, January 9, to Sunday, January 11, 2009, at Makuhari Messe in Chiba, Japan. The S2000 and Fit (called Jazz in Europe and other markets) concepts have both been developed by Honda's in-house customization brand, Modulo. The Japanese firm has not released any specific details on the two cars other than that the Sports Modulo S2000 Concept combines 'superior performance' with a 'premium interior finish' and that the Sports Modulo Fit Concept is a compact and practical, yet sporty automobile.

From the official press shots, we see that the S2000 Modulo Concept gains a wider front bumper and a new grille adorned with LED lights, side sills and multispoke alloy wheels. Inside, Modulo has uprated the S2000's cabin with new leather seats and carbon fiber trim.

As for the Sports Modulo Fit Concept, it too features a sportier front bumper with LED lights, side sills and dark alloy wheels. The Fit's two-tone interior has been extensively modified with the addition of bucket seats, an alcantara sport steering wheel, carbon-fiber trim finished in orange and extra gauges around the instrument panel.

REPORT: PSA will rebadge and sell the Mitsubishi i MiEV in Europe

France's PSA Group, which includes Peugeot and Citroen, will be jumping into the electric car game in 2011 courtesy of Mitsubishi. The Japanese carmaker will start selling its i MiEV later this year in Japan and will reportedly supply a re-badged version to sell through European dealers. Mitsubishi is planning to start with just 2,000 examples this year, with plans to double that volume each year over the next few years. With the additional volume going to PSA, the total number of cars is expected to double with half going to the French. That will mean Lithium Energy Japan, the JV between Mitsubishi and GS Yuasa will also have to crank up its production volumes. There are already some examples of the iMiEV being tested by electric utilities here in the US, but Mitsubishi hasn't yet committed to actually selling the car here.

2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback Will be Unveiled in Paris

Mitsubishi is going to unveil a new version of its Lancer compact, the Lancer Sportback at the Paris Motor Show.

The 2009 Lancer Sportback and Lancer Sportback Ralliart are going to be officially unveiled at the Paris Motor Show this October. The Lancer Sportback will be introduced in Europe this fall. The Sportback will be available with 1.5L, 1.8L or 2.0L engins. The Sportback Ralliart is powered by a turbocharged 2.0L engine that is mated to the Twin Clutch SST transmission that routes power to all four wheels.

PRESS RELEASE:

Mitsubishi Motors unveils Lancer Sportback at Paris Motor Show

— Lancer Ralliart 4WD sports sedan also on display —
Tokyo, June 11 2008 — Mitsubishi Motors Corporation will unveil, for the first time at an international motor show, the Lancer Sportback at the Le Mondial de l’Automobile 2008 (Paris Motor Show 2008) being held in Halls 1-8 of the Paris Expo Porte de Versailles from October 2 (October 4 for the general public) through October 19. The Lancer Sportback will have its European launch this fall with a phased introduction into the various countries in the region.

The company will also be displaying the Lancer Ralliart and Lancer Sportback Ralliart models that are based on the Lancer*1 sports sedan and Lancer Sportback. These models are powered by a turbocharged engine mated to Mitsubishi’s Twin Clutch SST (Sport Shift Transmission) and delivering power to all four wheels through an Active Center Differential.

*1 Named the Galant Fortis in Japan

With its inverted-slant nose and trapezoidal grille that defines the Mitsubishi Motors design identity the sporty Lancer Sportback is a 5-door sport hatchback, a body type that is very popular in Europe. The model is available in versions powered by 1.5-liter (109PS) or 1.8-liter (143PS) gasoline engines or by a 2.0-liter (140PS) turbo diesel engine. The Lancer Sportback offers an “auto-folding function” which enhances luggage compartment convenience through adjustable rear floor height and rear seatbacks that can be tipped forward via a lever located in the luggage compartment. The series is due to be joined by a model powered by Mitsubishi Motors’ new diesel engine in spring of 2009.

The Lancer Ralliart and Lancer Sportback Ralliart models use a new turbocharged 2-liter 4-cylinder DOHC MIVEC*2 engine [maximum output 177 kW (240PS), maximum torque 343 Nm (35 kgm)]. This is mated to Mitsubishi’s high-efficiency Twin Clutch SST transmission with an Active Center Differential, for extremely responsive steering and traction through tailoring the amount of torque fed to each wheel to optimally suit driving conditions. Also helping to significantly raise the basic performance attributes of these cars over the Lancer base model are 2-pot caliper front brakes and a larger brake master cylinder.

*2 Mitsubishi Innovative Valve lift and timing Electronic Control system

Mitsubishi to supply iMiEV to PSA, to be sold as Citroën and Peugeot

We've known since June that PSA has an agreement with Mitsubishi to work together on electric cars. What's new is a report in the Nikkei (subs req'd) about Mitsubishi supplying the all-electric MiEV to PSA an OEM agreement to be sold under the PSA brands Peugeot and Citroën. This is an agreement that benefits both partners, since Mitsubishi isn't that much of a powerful brand in Continental Europe and PSA will now have a readily-developed electric vehicle to have at showrooms. PSA could sell about 10,000 MiEVs in 2011, which would double Mistubishi's expected production figures. Most European countries are currently offering, or have announced, significant tax breaks and direct subsides to purchase electric cars. PSA had already developed a few EV models and you could actually buy a converted Peugeot 106 electric, some of which are used for car sharing in La Rochelle, France.

2009 Impala recalled over faulty airbags

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says passenger airbags in some 2009 Chevrolet Impalas may have a potentially deadly flaw. Not only could the devices fail to inflate in a crash, but the inflator tube could rupture and hurl pieces of it at passengers. Sounds pretty bad, but there is good news for most Impala owners. According to NHTSA, the recall will only affect 79 Impalas, and not all of them will need replacement. Airbags found to be faulty will be completely replaced under the recall campaign at GM service centers.

Notices will be mailed out sometime this month to Impala owners who need to have their vehicles inspected. You can read the entire NHTSA description here.

2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class: Leaked Brochure Reveals Interior, Exterior and Engine Details

In about a week's time, Mercedes plans to lift the wraps on its next-generation E-Class. However, thanks to an internal leak in December when three exterior photos found their way into the internet and a new leakage that occurred today and concerns the official German market brochure, there won't be much to talk about when Merc unveils the 2010 E-Class, known internally under the codename W212. Aside from the new exterior pictures, the brochure scans reveal the executive sedan's squared-shapes interior as well as the E-Class' full engine line-up and dimensions.

Following in the footsteps of the C-Class and more recently the GLK, the new E-Class exterior gets taut body surfacing and angular design elements such as the four diamond shape headlamps up front. Same goes for the interior, though in a less tacky way than the GLK's cabin which looks like it was built from bricks. Apparently, Merc's designers are trying -we not saying that that they succeeded- to evoke the robustness of the mid 1980s E-Class.

Not surprisingly, Mercedes-Benz's BMW 5-Series and Audi A6 rival has slightly grown in dimensions compared to the outgoing E-Class, measuring 4.868 mm in length (+12 mm), 1.854 mm in width (+32 mm) and 1.470 mm in height (-13 mm) with a wheelbase of 2.874 mm (+20 mm).

Powering the new E-Class is an updated range of diesel and gasoline engines. Diesel lovers will be able to choose from five different units: a new 2.1-liter 4-cylinder engine with 136, 170 and 204 HP and a 3.0-liter V6 with 231HP (BlueEFFICIENCY) and 211HP (BLUETEC).

Those who favor petrol can select between five different engine options: a 1.8-liter direct injection 4-cylinder with 184 and 204HP; a 3.5-liter V6 (for the 4MATIC model) delivering 272HP; a 3.5-liter direct injection V6 producing 292HP and at the top of the range, a 388HP 5.5-liter V8 that can be combined with RWD or AWD layout.

During the year, Mercedes plans to enrich its E-Class range with the introduction of the Estate (station-wagon) and Coupe models while in 2010 - 2011, the German automaker will add a hybrid version(s) and an AMG model aimed squarely at the BMW M5 featuring a 6.2-liter V8 engine that should be good for around 550-horsepower.

Via: Germancarzone

Hennessey HPE700: bastard love child of Camaro SS and Corvette ZR1

Following in the footsteps of such legendary Camaro tuners as Yenko Chevrolet, Hennessey Performance Engineering has unveiled the HPE700, which mates a standard 2010 Camaro SS with the supercharged LS9 V8 from the Corvette ZR1. As if that engine alone weren't enough, HPE has tuned the LS9 to produce 705 hp and 717 lb-ft torque. That should make for an awesome pavement pounder in the quarter-mile, or else a neat way to scorch the earth and create mushroom clouds of tire smoke.

Other performance goodies include 15-inch carbon ceramic brakes cribbed from the ZR1, upgraded suspension bits and HRE alloy rims shod with Michelin PS2 rubber. HPE chose not to leave well enough alone in the looks department, either. The HPE700 has inherited the controversial see-through hood from the ZR1, along with a body package that includes a full carbon fiber ground effects kit and a unique front fascia with faux-hideaway headlights and a billet aluminum grille. We like it, you may not.

The HPE700 is a lot of car, and to help drivers reign it in, a 1-day performance driving course is included in the asking price of $109,500. The first orders will be accepted next week to registered bidders at the Barret-Jackson auction in Scottsdale, AZ with regular orders being taken the following week. See the rest of Hennessey's official details in the press release after the jump.

[Source: Hennessey Performance Engineering]

PRESS RELEASE:

HENNESSEY PERFORMANCE ENGINEERING ANNOUNCES LIMITED EDITION 705 HP LS9 POWERPLANT FOR THE 2010 CAMARO

Extreme Performance Makeover Transforms the 2010 Camaro from Muscle Car to Super Car!

SEALY, TX – Hennessey Performance Engineering (HPE), well known for their extreme performance sports cars and muscle cars, announces their Limited Edition 2010 HPE700 Camaro.

At the heart of the beast is GM's new LS9 supercharged V8 tweaked as only HPE could to 705 horsepower and 717 lb-ft torque. To qualify as a supercar under the HPE banner it can't just go, it has to whoa. With optional 15 inch carbon brakes from the stunning new Corvette ZR1, light weight HRE wheels with Michelin PS2 tires and full suspension upgrades the HPE700 Camaro will be able to make full use of its new found power.

In addition to the power and handling upgrades., Hennessey will also be offering an exterior aerodynamics package to improve downforce at high speed. Penned by British designer, Steve Everitt, Hennessey's Cam-Aero ™ body upgrades include: Carbon fiber rear lip spoiler, carbon fiber side rocker panels, carbon fiber front splitter, front fascia with hideaway-look headlights and front billet grille. Completing the look of the HPE700 is a ZR1 inspired hood design with window showing off the Hennessey's tweaked LS9 powerplant.

"The HPE700 Camaro allows our customers to combine supercar power and performance with classic American muscle car looks in a modern, daily-drive usable sportscar with a backseat and a trunk!," said John Hennessey, President and CEO of Hennessey Performance Engineering. "We will be announcing other Hennessey turnkey vehicle packages for the 2010 Camaro in the near future along with an extensive list of aftermarket performance parts and accessories. But for now, the LS9-powered HPE700 Camaro, replete with ZR1 inspired looks and performance promises to be at the top of the American muscle car food chain later in 2009.

HPE700 buyers will also receive a 1-day performance driving course at Lonestar Motorsports Park – a ¼ mile dragstrip facility located adjacent to Hennessey's 24,000 square foot production facility and showroom.

Hennessey is offering the first HPE700 Camaros exclusively to registered bidders at the 2009 Barrett-Jackson auction in Scottsdale, AZ. Orders can be placed at the Hennessey display at the show or by phone or email beginning Tuesday, January 13 through Sunday, January 18, 2009. On Monday, January 19, 2009 the HPE700 Camaro will be available to the general public and can be ordered from select Chevrolet dealers as well as directly from Hennessey Performance Engineering.

Base price for the 2010 HPE700 Camaro is $109,500.

Located just west of Houston Texas at the Lonestar Motorsports Park complex, HPE has been building American supercars for nearly two decades with its Veyron-beating Venom Vipers, Ford GT's and recently released Dodge Challengers.

Mitsubishi Concept CX Photo Leaked

Mitsubishi released a sketch of the upcoming Concept CX, now an official photo has surfaced. The car is set to be unveiled at next month's Frankfurt Motor Show. You can think of the CX Concept as a sort of Lancer hatchback, since it has a similar front end as the compact sedan.

The CX will be powered by a 1.8L diesel engine and a twin-clutch transmission. The concept is Euro 5 emissions compliant and features a variable-geometry turbocharger, a diesel oxidation catalyst, and a diesel particulate filter.

The interior of the car is made of environmentally-friendly Green Plastic. The CX Concept features electronic 4WD and a split rear tailgate.

Streetfire Long Term Test - 2009 GT-R Review - Part 1

Some people can really nail things on the head when they write about the GT-R and I think Adam from StreeFire has done just that. Recently he took delivery of his new 2009 Nissan GT-R to replace his E46 BMW M3 and has had the pleasure of running it in during tropical storm Fay’s road drenching conditions.

Great writeup and a must read with a lot of good things to say about the GT-R so go and check it out.

KTM partners with University to design eco-friendly concepts

Austrian motorcycle manufacturer KTM has seemingly made a successful introduction to the four-wheeled world with its X-Bow roadster, and the company has assured us that there is more to come. While we anxiously await production electric and hybrid motorcycles along with small city cars from KTM, we can at least feast our eyes on a few eco-concept vehicles that were designed by industrial design students at FH JOANNEUM University with the assistance of KTM designers.

All of these concepts are amazing, but two of them in particular caught our eye, since they are intended to be run on electricity and they seem fairly production feasible.

• KTM sr 85 Deuce - An environmentally-friendly lightweight vehicle
• KTM 360° - A super-light, silent electric bike

Ina addition to the two electric vehicles, there is an off-road-ready four-wheeler, two water-bound machines and one that flies. See 'em all in our gallery below.

GT-R SpecV: It's Finally Here! Official Press Launch Photos and Details

The official media launch of the latest evolution of the Nissan GT-R, The R35 GT-R SpecV was held today at Nissan headquarters in Ginza, Tokyo Japan.

The SpecV had finally arrived for Japanese media to get a look at and photograph. GTRBlog was in town for the launch and now our readers can get their first look at the Spec-V in final production trim. There were three Ultimate Opal Black SpecV GT-Rs and one Brilliant White SpecV GT-R at the launch.

The Nissan GT-R SpecV contains quite a number of improvements over the base model GT-R. Most of which we covered in previous posts on the subject but today Nissan GT-R Chief Engineer, Kazutoshi Mizuno cleared up the details in a detailed talk on the new car.

Carbon Ceramic Brakes

The SpecV is the first Nissan production car to be offered with carbon ceramic brakes. The Brembo 6 piston aluminium calipers are delineated from the standard GT-R by their aluminium colouring and “Brembo Carbon Ceramic” markings. The calipers are physically the same as their standard GT-R cousins but they are fitted with special SpecV brake pads.

The carbon ceramic rotors themselves save significant amounts of unsprung weight while they are also increased in size to 390mm. Both rotors were on hand to pickup and compare. The carbon rotors feeling featherweight compared to the standard items.

Overboost Button

The SpecV features a steering wheel mounted overboost button which shares a switch with the cruise control function. An electronic circuit designed to provide more than standard boost for a short period of time to increase power for overtaking maneuvers for example. When used, the dashboard overboost green light illuminates and the SpecV’s midrange torque is increased for the next 80 seconds.

Ultimate Opal Black Color

A second new color is added to the Nissan GT-R lineup this year (after the new Brilliant White was added on the MY09 GT-R series II) called Ultimate Black Pearl. This color is very similar to the Midnight Purple colours on previous GT-R generations. Under some lights it can appear as anything from purple to bronze.

Engine Bay

The engine bay features a new engine cover specific to the SpecV.

Rear Spoiler
The rear spoiler is changed from the standard GT-R. It is slightly higher and is designed to increase rear downforce for sports driving. The wing element section is made from dry carbon fibre with a matte clear coat to protect it from the elements.

One of these new SpecV GT-Rs will set you back 15,750,000 yen including Japanese consumption tax Nissan say. The online SpecV configurator now available however says you can pay up to 17,835,450 yen for the optioned out model including tax.

Raiders of the Lost Truck: Mitsubishi killing forgotten pickup

Don't look now, but the U.S. is quickly losing its supply of small-volume, badge-engineered trucks. Just yesterday, we learned that at month's end, Isuzu plans to shut off the trickling flow that is its passenger vehicle business in the States, taking the Ascender SUV and i-Series pickups along with it. Today, there is word that Mitsubishi will drop the Raider pickup, itself a substantially restyled Dodge Dakota.

According to Automotive News, the slow-selling carryall will tuck into oblivion sometime mid next-year, as Mitsubishi looks to overhaul its product lineup in order to focus more on fuel-efficient small cars. In its present form, the Raider has been around since 2005, and while it it has never been a big seller, last year, the mid-size pickup sold under 3,000 units. Interestingly, an often overlooked and altogether different Raider was marketed as a Dodge-branded rework of the Mitsubishi Montero SUV in the late Eighties.

With America's badge-engineered workadays dropping like flies, how long will it be until the Grim Reaper shows up at the door, looking for the Mazda B-Series? Who will save the children? Buy them while you can, folks.

2009 Honda Insight Hybrid Official Specs, Plus Mega Gallery with 55 Photos

Thanks to the January 2009 issue of Honda's official Belgian magazine, we won't have to wait until the opening of the Detroit show this weekend to learn about the new Insight Hybrid's technical specifications. Even though the magazine is in French, it doesn't take a rocket scientist to make ends-meet. First of all, as anticipated, the Insight will use the same hybrid drivetrain as the Civic IMA Hybrid combining a 1.3-liter 4-cylinder petrol engine that delivers 88HP (IMA: 95 PS) at 5.800 rpm and 123Nm (90 lb.ft) of torque at 4.600 with an electric motor producing 13.6 HP and 103Nm (76 lb.ft) of torque.

The hybrid drivetrain is matted to a continuously variable transmission (CVT). As with the IMA, the Insight utilizes a set of batteries to store the energy that would otherwise be lost during braking. The energy is then used to power the electric motor. Honda claims that the Insight achieves a combined fuel consumption in the European test cycle of 4.4 liters per 100 km (53.5mpg US) with CO2 emissions of only 101 g/km.

Comparatively, the Civic Hybrid consumes on average 4.6 liters per 100 km (51.3mpg US) while the soon-to-be-replaced Prius III, 4.3 liters per 100km (54.7mpg US) with CO2 emissions of 104 g/km.

The spec sheet reveals that the Insight is slightly more compact than the current Toyota Prius measuring in at 4,395 mm in length, 1,695 mm in width and 1,425 mm in height (Prius: 4,450 mm x 1,725 mm x 1,490 mm).

The Belgian Insight and, most likely, all European market models, will be available in two trims, Comfort and Elegance. From what we were able to translate from the magazine, the base model's standard equipment will include ABS, VSA (Vehicle Stability Assist), airbags, 15-inch wheels, automatic climate control and a radio-CD. Enhancing to the Elegance will add Bluetooth, a parking assist system, cruise control, fog lights, heated front seats and rain sensors.

For details of the North American market Insight, we'll have to wait until January 11 when the Detroit Show opens its doors to the members of the press. Until then, enjoy the full image gallery of the Insight that has been updated with new photos.

Nissan GT-R SpecV: Details, live and images

Nissan's press release on the GT-R SpecV left a lot of unanswered questions, particularly the geeky tidbits that we thrive on. So with the help of our friends at GTRBlog who were on hand for the unveiling in Japan, and a few of our super-secret sources abroad, we were able to scrounge up some of the more salient details on Nissan's upgraded Godzilla. Follow the jump to find out the inside scoop on Nissan's most super of supercars.
To begin with, Nissan maintains that the GT-R SpecV is aimed at the discerning enthusiast, the same kind of buyer that would pass up the Porsche 911 GT3 for the RS variant. For $170,000, that's a very select group of consumers, but we doubt Nissan will have much difficulty moving the 20 to 30 SpecVs it'll be producing each month when sales begin February 8th.



Peak output remains the same, at 478 horsepower, but a switch on the right of the steering wheel (shared with the cruise control) activates an electronic circuit to boost mid-range torque by 15 lb-ft (up to 449 lb-ft). A green light illuminates on the dash when the overboost function is enabled, giving drivers 80 seconds to perform any overtaking maneuvers, and then defaulting back to the standard setting.



The SpecV's carbon ceramic brakes were developed in conjunction with Brembo and are painted silver to differentiate the upgraded stoppers from the standard GT-R. Although the six-piston (front) caliper size remains the same, the discs have been upgraded to 390mm (15.35 inches) and fitted with SpecV specific brake pads. Nissan claims a weight savings of 11 pounds per corner and –2.0 Gs worth of stopping power, but the system comes at a cost: $45,000.




The 20-inch RAYS forged aluminum wheels – the same units offered on the NISMO Clubsports GT-R -- also contribute to the overall weight savings, which comes in 132 pounds lighter than the standard model at 3,704 pounds. As mentioned in our previous post, Nissan replaced several components with lightweight carbon fiber, including the seats, interior trim (even the seat-back adjuster), grille and brake ducts, along with the trick dry carbon fiber rear wing (coated in clear matte paint) that increases downforce. The Bilsteins have been retuned to be more responsive on the racetrack and the engine cover has been replaced with a SpecV-only piece. The standard GT-R hues are available, but if you want to stand out, the Ultimate Opal Black paint job will set you back an additional $6,100.



Nissan hasn't released 0-60, 0-100 or quarter mile times yet, but we expect some official figures in the coming weeks. And as for a Nurburgring time... just you wait.

First Coulomb ChargePoint stations now available in San Jose, CA

Coulomb Technologies has launched its first public EV charging stations on its ChargePoint network this week in downtown San Jose CA. The Smartlets, which were announced last summer at the Plug-In 2008 conference, use a subscription service to allow drivers to park and charge their vehicles. When a driver signs up for the service (currently free after a $9.95 processing fee) they receive a smart card. Waving the card in front of the Smartlet unlocks the door and gives access to a plug. After plugging in, the door locks again until the driver is ready to leave (see more details here). The Smartlet is connected to a network and sends the subscriber data to Coulomb's servers for verification and then charges the subscriber's account. Eventually Coulomb will be offering several plans on its ChargePoint network, much like different cellular plans. Currently, there are three ChargePoint Smartlets located near the San Jose State University campus, but ChargePoint is negotiating with several other cities to install its system. If you live in San Jose and have a plug-in vehicle you can sign up at mychargepoint.net and use the system for yourself. The website lets subscribers find Smartlets in their area and will even tell them if they are available or occupied.

Fiat’s Abarth 500 DA 0 A 100

The Abarth 500 DA 0 A 100 is a tuned version of the ever so popular Fiat 500 — by far the best-selling Fiat car in Europe and the most anticipated Fiat ever in the United States. This DA 0 A 100 was designed to celebrate Abarth’s founder’s 100th birthday — and they’ve done a great job creating a sporty and spicy cinquecento — I love it!

SEMA Preview: Hyundai Genesis Sedan by RIDES Packed with Apple Accessories

For its second SEMA Show Genesis Sedan project Hyundai has joined forces with RIDES magazine. The customized Korean luxury sedan is packed with the latest gadgets in digital accessories including two Mac Mini computers, a MacBook Air, iPod Touch, iPhone 3G, high-speed Wi-Fi internet connection and a movie theater-quality surround sound system. And if that ain't enough to impress you, the Genesis' trunk also houses another Mac mini computer along with a 20-inch Apple Cinema Display and a motorized tray containing the mouse and keyboard. -Continued

"This Genesis perfectly suits the mobile executive, with multiple Mac computers and its own mobile Wi-Fi network," said Ben Harris, associate publisher, RIDES. "All of the modifications compliment the Genesis' natural attributes and emphasize the sleek look and luxury interior. We are looking forward to the SEMA show and displaying this amazing vehicle."

Exterior modifications to the car include 22-inch custom-made, three-piece alloy wheels wrapped around in Pirelli rubber, custom-molded front body kit and side skirts, lowered suspension and smoked headlights. Custom dual-tip stacked exhausts and custom-molded rear bumper along with blue paint job complete the look.

Freshman NY Congressman's "zero emissions" trip to DC

If nothing else, politics is about showmanship, grandstanding and appearances. If you've ever watched a Congressional hearing on C-Span you might have noticed that members of Congress tend to spend a lot more time speechifying than actually asking questions of the witnesses and listening to answers. I think it's safe to say that new Congressman Eric Massa (D-NY) will fit right in. For his trip from his upstate New York District to DC earlier this week for the new session of Congress, Massa decided to set an example by driving down in a zero emissions vehicle. General Motors' fuel cell research center in Honeoye Falls sits in Massa's district, so Massa decided to drive a fuel cell Chevy Equinox from his home in Corning to Washington.

The problem is that the Equinox has a maximum range of about 200 miles and it's about 280 miles from Corning to the Shell hydrogen station on the outskirts of Washington. To get around this little unfortunate detail, Massa drove from Corning to Harrisburg, PA where a second, fully-fueled Equinox was waiting. That second vehicle was towed from the DC hydrogen station behind a Tahoe hybrid. At the changeover point, the Tahoe hooked up the used Equinox and towed it back to Honeoye Falls. Just like other "zero emission" vehicles transfer their emissions to some remote location, this one transferred emissions to the Tahoe hybrid. Not a jet, but most certainly not zero emissions, either.

[Source: New York Times]

Nissan GT-R named Car of the Year by Automobile Mag

Nissan has hit a major home run with its latest Skyline, known as the GT-R here in the States. In fact, the car was knocked so far out of the park that it seems an obvious choice for anyone's Car of the Year. Nissan's latest supercar boasts enough performance to take on the best from the rest of the world regardless of price, making it an amazing value despite costing upwards of $80,000. As such, the new GT-R has been awarded the Car of the Year trophy from Automobile Mag. Who are we to argue?

Other winners of Automobile's year-end awards include Audi's stunning A5 coupe, which takes the award for Design of the Year, though it seems it feels like the A5's already been around for more than a year. Man of the Year goes to Honda's CEO, Takeo Fuki, who's company is now reaping the rewards for staying true to its initial vision of rational, fuel efficient designs after all these years. It's pretty hard to take exception with these choices, though 2009, which is right around the corner, is shaping up to be the year of fuel efficiency. Follow the jump for Automobile Mag's official press release, which has a few extra award winners we didn't mention.

Burned Rubber: Kumho delays holiday bonuses indefinitely

Rubber factory workers in South Korea haven't had a very happy holiday season this year, and they can blame it on the negative traits of the trickle-down effect.

Because Hyundai/Kia has been hit as hard as any other automaker in this economic crisis, business has been down for the country's second-largest tire maker, Kumho, as well. Due to the resulting dearth in liquidity, Kumho Tire Co. has just announced that it is unable to pay its workers their annual bonus. At 2.5 million won ($1,883) per worker and 3000 workers waiting for their cash, that's a lot of money, and Kumho says they don't have it... and don't know when they will.

Looks like it's tire-swings all around for Junior next Christmas, too...

[Source: TradingMarkets.com]

Celebrating 60 Years of Bentley Racing at Silverstone

The Bentley Drivers Club is celebrating its 60th year of racing at Silverstone with its first ever two-day meeting, on 8-9 August 2009. Everything from Vintage Bentleys to modern-day machines will take to the track in this, the 60th anniversary of the Club’s first Silverstone race meeting – honouring a continuous run of annual BDC events at the circuit, from 1949 to the present day.
Among the highlights at the 60th Anniversary Meeting will be the traditional Bentley handicap race, a unique feature of BDC meetings and a firm favourite with both participants and spectators. The handicap race allows Bentleys of every era to take part in a genuinely competitive battle for victory. Since each car is started from the pit-lane, a 1925 Bentley 3 Litre might have a full two-lap head start on a more modern Turbo R, and the fight is on – right down to the chequered flag.

Equally popular is the Bentley Drivers Club ‘All-Comers’ race. Here, as well as a large helping of Bentleys, you can expect to see cars varying from a humble Lotus Sunbeam or Triumph GT6, through to a modern McLaren or Lola T70.

Meanwhile, there will also be the traditional Bentley Parade on the Saturday, which invites any club member who turns up in a Bentley, new or old, to drive three laps of the Silverstone circuit – topped off by a taste of ultimate performance, with a track demonstration of the 2003 Le Mans-winning Bentley Speed 8. Off-track, spectators can wander through an impressive display of significant Bentley race cars, including past Le Mans winners, Brooklands cars, and Bentleys that have raced at BDC events throughout the past 60 years.

“The annual Bentley Drivers Club meeting is acknowledged for presenting the very best of ‘proper’ club racing – highly competitive on-track, but relaxed and friendly off-track,” says Sebastian Welch, Competitions Captain of the BDC. “While there are a number of races exclusive to the Bentley marque, we’re also delighted that the Aston Martin Owners’ Club will be racing at the two-day BDC meeting, along with a round of the Morgan Championship, the Masters Top Hat historic saloons and Cloth Cap pre-’66 sports GTs – plus the Equipe GTS for sports and GT cars. This looks set to be the most exciting – and certainly the most extensive – race meeting the Bentley Drivers Club has ever run.”

REPORT: Dongfeng to launch coupe in 2009

Dongfeng began as one of Chairman Mao's pet projects in 1968, but lately, the Chinese automaker has been feeling left behind, despite being one of the largest carmakers in the pentad of China's auto industry. According to reports, Dongfeng intends to change that by introducing a new sport coupe of its own, with sales beginning sometime in 2009. While the pignosed monstrosity on the right isn't necessarily the final design, it's an enduring tribute to the first-generation Hyundai Tiburon after ransacking the Pep Boys' "shiny crap" aisle. At least there will be rockin' tunes supplied by that bitchin' concertina built into the hatchback. To be fair, what we've seen so far is a concept, so we'd expect an actual production car -- rumored to be aimed at the premium buyer and powered by Mitsubishi -- to be toned down. Here's hoping.

Mazda Furai Concept heads for BIMS

The sensational Mazda Furai concept car, which made its world premiere at the Detroit Show in January and performed at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, will head a line-up of 18 Mazda cars on display at the British International Motor Show from 23 July.
Celebrating over 40 years of Mazda’s rotary engine and international motorsports heritage, the two-seater, mid-engined, rear-wheel drive 180mph Furai is the raciest interpretation of the NAGARE design language (the ‘embodiment of motion’) to-date. Joining the Furai on Stand 19 in the South Hall at ExCeL, will be the new Mazda RX-8 R3 four-door sports coupe and the upgraded Mazda BT-50 pickup, making their European premieres.

The Furai (pronounced ‘foo-rye’ – Japanese for ‘sound of wind’) is the sort of car that could only come from a company that incorporates the ‘Soul of a Sports Car’ into everything it builds. Furai was created at Mazda North American Operations’ (MNAO) studio in Irvine, California under the leadership of Franz von Holzhausen, Director of Design. The design team set out to develop a car that blurred the boundaries between road-car and racecar.

The team began by taking a 450ps Mazda rotary-engined Courage C65 carbon-composite racecar chassis (successfully campaigned in the LMP-2 class of the American Le Mans Series), and adding a closed cockpit and Nagare design elements. But while the four previous concept cars explored Nagare’s emerging design aesthetic, every element of the Furai’s textures and details serve a functional purpose.

Channelling, rather than just visually interpreting the flow of air, Furai’s Nagare ‘flow lines’ actually enhance the vehicle’s aerodynamic performance, by directing air under, over and around the body surface. An under-car diffuser below the tail helps to draw the volume of air flowing through the radiators and engine bay, out of the car to ‘exhaust’ between the rear wheels – achieving the goals of improved cooling and generating handling stability through aerodynamic downforce.

New Mazda RX-8 R3

Also at BIMS, Mazda is introducing a new version of its unique rotary-engined, four-seater, four-door coupe – the Mazda RX-8 R3. Powered by an improved version of the 231ps twin-rotor engine, the new R3 will offer drivers a heightened experience with faster steering, chassis and engine responses, more refinement, more equipment and even greater value. On sale from late August, the new Mazda RX-8 R3 will be priced at £24,995 (on-the-road) and, together with the Mazda MX-5, is sure to maintain Mazda’s position as ‘Britain’s favourite sportscar brand’ with a 25 per cent share of that market sector.

Mazda RX-8 has always had the appearance of a classic sportscar. The new R3 version enhances this look with a new front bumper design incorporating a larger five-point grille and oil cooling vents, new headlamps, new front fenders, new twin round LED rear lamps and a redesigned rear bumper with larger 90mm twin exhaust pipes.

Standard in the UK, the new RX-8 R3 comprises a sports front bumper, side skirts and rear wing all finished in body colour. The new model’s more aggressive appearance is complemented by new larger diameter 19-inch alloy wheels with five ‘rotor-shaped’ spokes, finished in dark titanium.

The uniquely high-revving RENESIS engine of the new RX-8 is evolved to deliver sharper responses and even more driving fun, although the outright power (231ps) and torque (211Nm) are unchanged.

Marketed as a single model, the new R3 will be so highly specified that no factory-fitted options are available and each car will be fitted with more than a dozen items of equipment not previously available on a Mazda RX-8, including new Recaro sports front seats, an integrated Bluetooth® system and a BOSE® premium audio system with nine speakers.

New 3-litre diesel for upgraded Mazda BT-50 in the UK

The refined, upgraded Mazda BT-50 making its European debut at BIMS, inherits the athletic looks of the current model, while incorporating a touch of brawny truck toughness into the exterior design. Combined with a broader range of exterior colours, the refreshed look conveys rugged reliability, an individualistic character and strong road presence.

Especially and exclusively for the UK market, the new BT-50 4x4 Double Cab Intrepid, with a 3.0-litre common-rail turbo diesel engine will be available, offering 9 per cent more power and 15 per cent more torque than the 2.5-litre engine. The new 156ps, 380Nm, engine, which makes the BT-50 even more of an ideal companion for an active lifestyle, is matched to a new five-speed automatic transmission with a high fifth ratio for quiet economical cruising.

All other versions of the upgraded BT-50 are powered by the popular 143ps, 330Nm 2.5‑litre turbo diesel engine which is carried over unchanged, together with a five-speed manual gearbox. The Drivetrain is still offered in two versions – a 2WD only version and a 2WD/4WD version that is ideal for commercial use or for more adventurous lifestyles.

Available with a choice of three body styles, the upgraded Mazda BT-50 retains all the technical features and attributes of the current model. The Upgraded BT-50 range, which goes on sale from 1st September priced from £10,629 (commercial vehicle on-the-road), now comes with a new auxiliary (AUX) jack at the base of the centre console to allow users to connect a portable audio player and listen to their favourite music through the vehicle’s audio system with two, four or six speakers – depending on model.

Thrilling Zoom-Zoom Challenge returns to ExCeL following 2006 success

Mazda has confirmed its plans to return to the British International Motor Show, with the thrilling ‘Mazda Zoom-Zoom Challenge’ attraction. A major success at the 2006 Show, the Zoom-Zoom Challenge will allow over 5,000 members of the public to get behind the wheel of Mazda’s cars, at no charge, to experience their spirited handling and entertaining drive.

Competitors will compete against the clock in a technically demanding driving challenge around a specially-constructed test track as they strive to achieve the fastest lap time and demonstrate the most accomplished car control. Professional racing drivers will take each participant around the track for a familiarisation lap followed by a warm-up circuit behind the wheel and a timed circuit in both the iconic Mazda MX-5 sports car and all-new Mazda2 3dr supermini.

Top prize will be the use of a £11,000 plus 1.5-litre Mazda2 3dr Sport for the competitor posting the highest score throughout the two weeks of the Motor Show.

Source: Mazda

New Twingo Renaultsport unveiled

The reveal of ING Renault F1 Team’s all-new R28 Formula One race car and driver line-up guarantees excitement, but today’s launch was enhanced further with the exclusive world premiere of the new Twingo Renaultsport.
Renault's new, affordable, high-performance car slots into the Renaultsport range alongside its bigger sister cars, Clio and Mégane Renaultsport, and will be on sale in the UK in the autumn.

Twingo Renaultsport is a genuine hot hatch with looks to match and was designed to deliver both enjoyable road-holding and sports performance.Its efficient,balanced chassis has been combined with a punchy but flexible 133hp engine to form a package that is sure to appeal to all those who seek sporting sensations and driving pleasure during everyday motoring.

Unmistakable sporting credenti

Renault has produced an affordable high-performance car which sits alongside Clio and Mégane Renaultsport in the Renaultsport range. Twingo Renaultsport's compact proportions and incisive, assertive styling are taken from the Twingo Concept show car which was unveiled at the 2006 Paris Show. Twingo's existing lines are underpinned by a more aggressive stance and the newcomer's sporty style is further emphasised by its wider front and rear wings, profiled sills and rear spoiler.

Driving pleasure and sporting sensations during everyday motoring

Twingo Renaultsport is the response of Renault Sport Technologies' experts to a two-pronged challenge, namely to deliver sports performance while at the same time ensuring that the new car is comfortable to use on a daily basis. Twingo Renaultsport’s chassis is both responsive and finely tuned to provide precise, balanced handling, while specific work on its new 133hp 1,598cc engine reveals a punchy temperament.

The rest of the world’s media and the public will get the chance to see the New Twingo Renaultsport close-up and in its full glory at the forthcoming Geneva Motor Show in March.

Source: Renault

Nissan 370Z officially rated at 332 HP

Images of the all new 2009 Nissan 370Z have been trickling out of Nissan for the past few weeks as a lead up to the car's official unveiling at the 2008 LA Auto Show. Details have been mostly speculation thus far, but now some of the rumors can be laid to rest, thanks to information in a photo caption from the LA Auto Show's website. The new Z will reverse the recent automotive trend of bloated model redesigns by featuring a reduced wheelbase and more lightweight body pieces. We also now know that its VQ37 engine will put down exactly 332 horsepower. That is a couple more ponies than are currently produced by the same engine inside the Infiniti G37. For those who like to rest their left foot while driving, a 7-speed automatic transmission will also finally be offered. And for those who enjoy some fancy footwork, but don't have a perfectly calibrated heel-toe, a rev-matching downshift system will be available for the 6-speed manual. Thanks for the tip, RDS!

Brand new 1988 Pontiac Fiero GT on sale, just $35k!

So you're a Pontiac diehard, but you don't need the space of the G8 GT GXP and the Solstice GXP is just a bit too "me too." So what's a Big Chief enthusiast to do? Well, if you've got $35,000 kicking around in your automotive slush fund, how about a brand-new, never-titled 1988 Pontiac Fiero GT? The mid-engined, V6 Fiero that General Motors should have been building the whole time, but only got around to developing just before they sent they took the plastic-bodied model out back? Yes, that GT.

Evidently thinking ahead, some enterprising chap found a fire-engine red example and promptly mothballed it. Quite likely the only "brand new" Fiero on the planet (GT or otherwise), this time warp rear-driver has just 221 miles on it, and is still on MSO. Heck, we're willing to bet that the cassette player has never even seen a copy of White Snake's Greatest Hits!

If you're interested, the optimistically-priced but irreplacable Fiero can be found at Hinton Chevrolet-Buick in Lynden, Washington. Thanks for the tip, Farris!

MCR Readying Nissan 370Z for Tokyo Auto Salon

At this week's 2009 Tokyo Auto Salon that runs from January 9 to 11, Japan's Matchless Crowd Racing (MCR) will reveal a fully modded Nissan 370Z packed with accessories and performance items from various manufacturers. We don't have all the details yet, but we do know that MCR's 370Z show car will get a NISMO aero-package with a front and rear spoiler, side skirts and a rear wing, Enkei alloy wheels wrapped in Yokohama tires, uprated Endless brake system, a sport suspension and a lightweight sport exhaust system. Check out some more photos of the 370Z from MCR after the jump…

Leakage: Euro-spec 2009 Honda Insight

We're still six days away from the official unveiling of the 2009 Honda Insight at the Detroit Auto Show, but the crew at Carscoop just couldn't wait to release images of the European-spec hybrid ahead of its debut.

The Euro model shown here won't differ too much from the U.S. version (we like our steering wheels on the right-hand side), but the stylistic differences between the production version and its conceptual predecessor are obvious at first glance. As we've seen before, the front fascia carries over largely unchanged, although the technorific LED headlamps, deeply recessed fog lamps/air intakes and gaudy brightwork are all left on the designer's desk. The side mirrors have grown in proportion to the door handles, and the C-pillar is noticeably thicker than the concept that bowed in Paris. The rear has also been smoothed over, with the Prius-esque (or is that CRX-inspired?) hatch losing a bit of glass, along with the contoured cut-out for the license plate, which is now mounted lower on the bumper, with a prominent "H" badge floating on a body-colored panel.

Although the interior hasn't been revealed in full, we get a brief glimpse of the central-mounted tach, "eco" gauges and second tier speedo, which benefits from a backlight that transitions from green to blue when the driver mashes the accelerator and unleashes the full fury of the small-displacement engine through the CVT gearbox.

Sales will begin in the U.S. and abroad this spring, with a starting price rumored to hover around $20,000.

Porsche puts diesel back on the table

Within the past month, Porsche has stated that it has no intention of installing diesel engines in itsvehicles and would instead focus on hybrids. The automaker has also threatened to pull out of the European market if new mandatory CO2 regulations go into effect. Now, Porsche research head Wolfgang Dürheimer is backtracking. Although he says that Porsche is not currently developing a diesel because it wouldn’t make sense for just one market, they are monitoring developments, and anything is possible in the future.

Manic Hyundai Sunday: Genesis Coupe to debut in Super Bowl ad

After discovering that Hyundai would be running two separate commercials during the Super Bowl to introduce the Genesis coupe to the masses, we've been trying to imagine what kind of "precision driving footage" Rhys Millen would provide "matched to a completely distinct soundtrack" from cellist Yo-Yo Ma. The two spots share a single theme, "The Epic Lap."

Rhetorical ads aside, we're genuinely excited about the upcoming Genesis Coupe, which will be offered with either a 210-horsepower (220 with premium fuel) 2.0L turbocharged four or a 306 hp 3.8L V6 driving the rear wheels. Considering how cool Hyundai's other Genesis Coupe commercials have been, we're looking forward to seeing this one too. You can count us among the millions of viewers who'll be tuning into the big game on Sunday, Feb. 1st, regardless of who happens to be playing.

Later, Hyundai will launch a contest where online users can edit their own "Epic Lap" commercials. That sounds like it should get the creative juices flowing rather nicely. Hit the jump to read the press release and thanks to all who tipped in!

Manic Hyundai Sunday: Genesis Coupe to debut in Super Bowl ad

Click above for a high-res gallery of the Hyundai Genesis Coupe

After discovering that Hyundai would be running two separate commercials during the Super Bowl to introduce the Genesis coupe to the masses, we've been trying to imagine what kind of "precision driving footage" Rhys Millen would provide "matched to a completely distinct soundtrack" from cellist Yo-Yo Ma. The two spots share a single theme, "The Epic Lap."

Rhetorical ads aside, we're genuinely excited about the upcoming Genesis Coupe, which will be offered with either a 210-horsepower (220 with premium fuel) 2.0L turbocharged four or a 306 hp 3.8L V6 driving the rear wheels. Considering how cool Hyundai's other Genesis Coupe commercials have been, we're looking forward to seeing this one too. You can count us among the millions of viewers who'll be tuning into the big game on Sunday, Feb. 1st, regardless of who happens to be playing.

Later, Hyundai will launch a contest where online users can edit their own "Epic Lap" commercials. That sounds like it should get the creative juices flowing rather nicely. Hit the jump to read the press release and thanks to all who tipped in!

SEMA Preview: Hyundai Genesis Sedan by RIDES Packed with Apple Accessories

For its second SEMA Show Genesis Sedan project Hyundai has joined forces with RIDES magazine. The customized Korean luxury sedan is packed with the latest gadgets in digital accessories including two Mac Mini computers, a MacBook Air, iPod Touch, iPhone 3G, high-speed Wi-Fi internet connection and a movie theater-quality surround sound system. And if that ain't enough to impress you, the Genesis' trunk also houses another Mac mini computer along with a 20-inch Apple Cinema Display and a motorized tray containing the mouse and keyboard.

"This Genesis perfectly suits the mobile executive, with multiple Mac computers and its own mobile Wi-Fi network," said Ben Harris, associate publisher, RIDES. "All of the modifications compliment the Genesis' natural attributes and emphasize the sleek look and luxury interior. We are looking forward to the SEMA show and displaying this amazing vehicle."

Exterior modifications to the car include 22-inch custom-made, three-piece alloy wheels wrapped around in Pirelli rubber, custom-molded front body kit and side skirts, lowered suspension and smoked headlights. Custom dual-tip stacked exhausts and custom-molded rear bumper along with blue paint job complete the look.

• Related Story:
• SEMA Show Hyundai Genesis V8 by RKSport
  

Rendered Speculation: Honda to intro A-segment car, challenge, iQ, up!, smart

The smallest Honda we can currently get here in North America is the B-segment Fit. Back in Japan however, Honda has always offered smaller A-segment and the even smaller 660cc Kei-class cars. These have not been available outside of Japan but that could soon change. Honda will apparently be introducing an A-segment model to challenge the Toyota iQ, Volkswagen up! and Hyundai i10. There's still no word on whether the new mini will make it to the US. We'll probably have to wait and see whether the iQ and up! come here and if they sell well.

Honda will try to keep the price of its new small car down and less subject to volatility by sticking to conventional products rather than some more advanced materials. It's possible the new car will even get equipped with Honda's IMA hybrid system. We may see the new car in concept form at the Tokyo Motor Show this fall.

Rumormill: BMW 135i "SuperSports" model coming in 2010

According to a report originally posted at Germancarzone and then repeated at BMW Blog, a certain Bavarian automaker is currently working on a new performance version of its 1 Series. Although it wouldn't be called an M1 -- since that moniker is reserved for supercar status -- the so-called 135i SuperSports would get a bunch of improvements, consisting mostly of lightweight body panels, a decontented interior, as well as an upgraded suspension and brake package. Power is said to come from the latest version of BMW's outstanding 3.0L turbocharged inline-six that's rated at 326-horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque in the 2009 7 Series.

We wouldn't be surprised to see the upgraded engine migrate down the line from its placement under the hood of the latest flagship, but we're a bit dubious that an upcoming lightweight SuperSports edition will see daylight beyond that. We'd rather see the 1 Series get these light weight mods (in a tii model perhaps?) along with a smaller four cylinder engine option, complete with a price that's a bit easier to swallow than the current model. We're also still holding out hope for the 123d.

Tata Motors sales plunge by nearly half

Even when you (intend to) make the cheapest brand-new car in the world, you can't escape an economic downturn. Global jitters and year-end hemming and hawing have conspired to slice Tata's December sales figures nearly in half compared to a year ago. December is a traditionally slow month for auto sales as buyers try to put off expenditures until the next year (when incentives are more attractive on existing stock), but even accounting for the bargain hunters, this is a major drop.

Everyone, everywhere is down, and Tata Motors stock has taken a beating thanks to the economy and costly external issues like plant troubles. That said, recent interest rate cuts have buoyed company shares in hopes that the Nano (not to mention Saint CarBuyer) will soon arrive, and if nothing else, they still have the Indica's longevity to celebrate.

Reva Electric Car Company offering lithium ion option

India's most famous electric car maker, Reva, is now giving prospective buyers in Europe the opportunity of turning their new REVAi into a REVA L-ion by offering a lithium-ion power source for the 2+2 city car. The modern battery gives the little EV increased performance while reducing charging time and maintenance. Numbers-wise, that means a 75-mile range with a 50 mph top speed. Acceleration times haven't been released but we expect that just the reduced weight of the cars power source alone will go a little way towards adding some pick-me-up. Equipped with a proprietary battery management system (BMS), the lithium ions should offer owners a substantially longer battery-pack lifetime and will come with a three-year warranty.

Also available now is an off-board charger, one that requires 3-phase power, that can give you a 90 percent charge in an hour. That's substantially less than the 6 hours it takes to fill up from an ordinary socket. The current lead acid batteries take 8 hours to charge completely. If you already own the REVAi model, which is itself an upgraded version of the not-so-crashworthy original, you will be able to purchase a lithium ion kit a little later on in the year. Get all the niggling details in the press release after the break. Thanks to Jeff for the tip!

Audi A5 sportback:New information

We have some fresh information on the Audi A5 Sportback, expected in 2010.
The wheelbase of the A5 Sportback is identical to that of the A4, on which the A5 coupe is based. But the A5 Sportback will be lower and sleeker than the A4. It features historical references: "The side-window and rear treatments were inspired by the classic Audi 100 Coupe," says Sielaff.
Engines will be taken from Audi's parts bin and could theoretically stretch from efficient four-cylinder diesel engines up to high-performance V-8 models rated at well over 400 hp. We expect the A5 Sportback to be offered with a version of the 2.0-liter TFSI engine and the supercharged 3.0-liter V-6 recently launched in the new S4 and refreshed A6 lineup. Europe will get four-cylinder and V-6 diesel options, too.
Audi remains tight-lipped on exact specifications and launch dates, but we believe the company could unveil the A5 Sportback as soon as the 2009 Frankfurt auto show. Look for the A5 Sportback at U.S. dealers in the 2010 calendar year as a 2011 model.

Smaller Rolls-Royce RR4 previewed in latest design sketches

Rolls-Royce has recently been undertaking significant organizational changes with the appointment of CEO Tom Purves from parent company BMW, the introduction of the new Drophead Coupe and most recently, the development of a smaller Rolls-Royce model codenamed the RR4 that has been slightly revealed in these design sketches. Due out in late 2010, the RR4 will accompany the Phantom lineup of vehicles and will be built on a modified Rolls-Royce assembly line at Goodwood, England. Paint, wood and leather shops will be expanded for increased production, as well as a second shift will be added to the manufacturing plant. According to Chief Designer Ian Cameron, a bigger emphasis on driving was instilled in the RR4's "more informal" design. Even with smaller dimensions and a "more organic form" that emphasizes owner's likeliness to drive the car rather than be driven, the Phantom's little brother is still expected to command at least a $350,000 price tag. Key to the new design will be a BMW-sourced V-12 powerplant that is speculated to produce 470-plus horsepower. The engine will utilize BMW's HPi system that enables the V-12 to produce less emissions and more power on high quality fuel. Although the revised engine will likely be shared with the upcoming fifth-generation BMW 7 Series and the vehicle derived from the Concept CS sport sedan slated for 2011, sources close to the project have indicated that the RR4's engine will be "of a unique capacity, larger than the 6.0-liter that will be fitted to the 7 Series." Currently the Phantom and Phantom Drophead Coupe employ a Rolls-Royce-like 6.75-liter (or as they state a 6-3/4-liter) V-12 that will most likely serve as engineering inspiration for the smaller four-door's power supply. According to company chairman Ian Robertson, the RR4 is anticipated to greatly "expand the appeal of the brand" and further details of the new model will be revealed in the coming months nearing its release. Rolls-Royce posted a 25 percent increase in sales for 2007 with 1010 cars -- a record amount for one year. Source: Rolls-Royce

Michigan State Police hit the test track with latest cop cars

Every September since the 1950s, the Michigan State Police have conducted vehicle performance testing on the latest cop cars. Prior to the early 1970s when the first oil embargo occurred, they would go out for bids every year and then test just the low bid vehicle. In those days, testing was limited to acceleration, top speed and braking distance.

According to Lt. David Halliday of the Michigan State Police, as carmakers were struggling at that time and scrambling to sell their bigger vehicles, they all started submitting bids around the same price with only a $45 spread covering all the contenders one year. Around that time they decided to start testing all of the available vehicles and they also made their test results available to all interested police agencies. For the past three decades, a chunk of that annual testing has been conducted at the Chrysler Proving Ground in Chelsea, MI.



All of the manufacturers that officially offer what are termed as "special service" vehicles bring out their wares to be evaluated for this annual get together. Special service vehicles are what Jake and Elwood would have called cop cars with cop motors, cop suspensions, and cop brakes. These vehicles are made available for fleet sales for police and fire departments, taxis and other uses. They'll typically have heavy duty cooling systems, possibly transmission coolers, different brake linings for better heat resistance and stripped down interiors.

Since the 1970s, the testing regimen has certainly been expanded. In addition to the top speed, acceleration and braking tests that are run at Chelsea, they take the vehicles across the state to Grattan Raceway near Grand Rapids for a series of vehicle dynamics tests. Because many of the vehicles are equipped with flex-fuel engines, there are two examples of each of those vehicles tested, one with gas and the other with E85. After all of the testing is completed, the Michigan State Police publish their test results and make them available online for any police agency to access.



The most recent addition to the police car ranks are the Dodge Charger and Magnum. As the only rear wheel drive sedan alternative to the ancient Crown Victoria, these have proven quite popular with police forces since their introduction in 2006. According to a Chrysler representative, they have sold over 11,000. Various agencies also purchase other Chrysler vehicles like the Durango and assorted Jeeps, but these aren't officially offered so they weren't on test.



General Motors offers a wider variety of vehicles with special service packages including the Impala
sedan, the Express full-size van, and the Tahoe and Suburban SUVs. The Chevy vehicles are flex-fuel capable and currently the SUVs are the only ones equipped with rear-wheel drive.



Ford has the widest variety of vehicles available including the ancient Crown Victoria and the Econline van. They also offer the Escape, Explorer, Expedition and F-150 pickup with police packages. While the Crown Vic special service vehicle seems like it's been around since the time of Henry Ford, it still accounts for about 50,000 annual sales out a total of about 60 - 65,000 total.

Part of the reason the Vic still dominates in spite of the arrival of the Charger is legacy equipment. If you've ever looked inside a modern police car, you'll find the front is packed with equipment including radios, computers, gun racks and more. All of the mounting hardware for this equipment is specifically built to fit into a specific vehicle and when vehicles are replaced, much of this equipment is just moved from the old car to the new car. Switching cars means buying more auxiliary equipment, as well. There is also the issue of training service personnel and stocking new parts.

The Crown Vic also has an advantage in trunk space compared to the Charger. For State police and rural forces that may spend an entire shift patrolling a significant distance from their post, the ability to carry all of the necessary equipment, including emergency equipment, is critical. The Ford's 20.6 cu.ft. trunk trumps the Charger's 16.2 cu.ft.


The Crown Vic on the left, Charger on the right. The spare tire tray in the Vic slides out for easier access.

When asked about the future of the Crown Vic, a Ford representative said that there are no current plans to redesign the current car. The current model remains very popular among police forces and cab companies and maintains some advantages in size compared to the newcomers. They will be making incremental improvements to powertrains to improve performance and fuel efficiency. Diesels are out of the question, although some variation of the Twin-Force engine is a distinct possibility. Twin-Force is Ford's branding for smaller displacement engines with turbocharging and direct-injection that will debut next year in the Lincoln MKS. A rear-wheel drive variant of the twin-turbo GDI V-6 is expected in the next Mustang in 2010, and this engine could make its way to the police interceptor.

Performance wise, all of the four-wheeled vehicles were pretty even, with acceleration times of 0-60 mph from about 8.2 to 8.8 seconds. The one exception were the 5.7L Hemi-powered Dodges, which ran the same test in 6.35 seconds. Braking performance was also pretty similar in the range of 135 - 145 feet for the cars and 156 feet for the SUVs. Although pretty much all of the police forces are running their vehicles on gasoline today, they may eventually transition to ethanol as it becomes more available. Diesel is also a future option that some forces are looking at and Chrysler is willing to consider it if enough demand exists. For more on that check out the AutoblogGreen report on alternative fuels for cop cars.

Holden cuts Commodore V8 power to save gas

For the first time in many years, the engineers at Holden, GM's Down Under division, have cut the power of a V8 engine in the big Commodore sedan. The 6.0L V8 automatic transmission combination in the Commodore is now equipped with Active Fuel Management, GM's terminology for cylinder deactivation. The system allows four cylinders to be shut off at light load conditions. In the Commodore (which is sold in North America as the Pontiac G8) the power drops from 362 hp to 349 hp while combined fuel efficiency goes from 16.44 mpg to 18.23 mpg (US). That's still not particularly impressive, but the 1.8 mpg increase is at least notable.

[Source: Drive.com.au]

REPORT: Suzuki's Kizashi program stillborn

We're going to have to get used to feigning shock when new models are scrapped seemingly just weeks away from production. If the reports are true, Suzuki's long-awaited Kizashi sedan is to be the latest victim in this growing syndrome. We've already seen a number of prototypes running around in what looks like full-production sheetmetal, but now we're hearing that the car's 2010 launch may have been scuttled wholesale - yet another victim of the deteriorating global economy.

Over the last year, Suzuki has made some very public overtures to the family sedan segment with its lauded string of Kizashi concept cars, but warning signs for the model's viability began to emerge in September when Suzuki CEO Osamu Suzuki hinted to Reuters that the car could still be nixed.

In North America, at least, Suzuki has yet to kick its reputation as the redheaded stepchild of Asia's automakers (an unfortunate mantle it inherited when Isuzu pulled out of the passenger car market), despite building some compelling products like the SX4 Crossover. If reports of the Kizashi's death are true, we can't see Suzuki climbing off the bottom rung anytime soon.

All Aboard the Bandwagon: Lotus Reportedly Planning Electric Car

Lotus, Geneva Motor Show, Lotus Elise, Coupes, Hybrid

Lotus, which made a splash in 2008 with its well-received Evora 2+2 (pictured), will produce a high-performance electric vehicle, according to a report in the Financial Times citing comments from Lotus chief executive Michael Kimberley. The move shouldn’t come as a surprise, as Lotus already supplies versions of its vehicles to automakers for use as electric cars.

Lotus assembles bodies for the Lotus-Elise based Tesla Roadster, and the Dodge ENVI concept is essentially a Lotus Europa with an all-electric powertrain. Kimberley told the FT that the Lotus effort will differ from the Telsa and ENVI in that it will utilize a gasoline engine hooked to a generator as a range extender -- much like GM's coming Chevrolet Volt and the Fisker Karma. The Karma is making its production debut at the rapidly-approaching 2009 Detroit auto show.

Kimberley also told FT that the company is working with a "major automotive manufacturer," on the car's range extender and related electric tech. It's more than likely that the manufacturer in question is GM, which is supplying Fisker with its 260-hp, 2.0L turbocharged Ecotec four as the Karma's range-extending engine. Both GM and Fisker say their cars will have an overall range of at least 300 miles, with 40 or so of those miles possible using power from a lithium-ion battery pack only.

Kimberley told the FT to expect the electric Lotus shortly. It's possible a concept version of the car could be unveiled as early as this March at the 2009 Geneva motor show. Of course, we'll bring you more on the new electric Lotus as it becomes available.

Source: Financial Times

Castrosua unveils Tempus, its first hybrid bus

Spanish busmaker Castrosúa has unveiled its first hybrid bus. Named Tempus, the new electric-diesel-powered bus will be ready this summer. Developed with a company called Mormendi, the Tempus is the child of a young industrial engineer called Jaime Moreno. Tempus has already won the "Spanish Bus of the Year" award for 2009 - that was fast - and Madrid and Barcelona are among the cities that will get some units for testing. The Tempus has two electric motors that power the rear wheels. The motors get their juice from chloride-sodium batteries placed inside the vehicle's roof. The electric powertrain is mated to Iveco's smallest diesel engine and the bus uses just 80 liters to go 300 km, a 50 percent reduction compared to similar units. The Tempus is designed for very tight routes; it measures 9.5 meters long and 2.55 meters wide, perfect for old city centers.

[Source: El Mundo]

Germans? Delay? VW postpones Chattanooga groundbreaking ceremony

When building a new factory, especially one as large and complex as an auto manufacturing plant, there are plenty of elements that can throw things off schedule. Scheduling itself, however, is rarely the problem, especially for a German company. But that's the reason why Volkswagen has delayed the groundbreaking ceremony for its new plant in Chattanooga, Tennessee. According to VW spokespersons, the ceremony is being delayed until March due to several members of the company's management board in Wolfsburg wanting to be present, but can't make it any earlier. (And it's not even Oktoberfest yet!)

However, Volkswagen insists that construction of the $1 billion plant is progressing as planned. This also includes the city's preparations for hosting the factory, refurbishing office buildings downtown, the opening of a new school for the German-speaking children of VW employees, stores and restaurants to cater to the workforce, as well as space for the vendors and suppliers who are expected to come to town to support the factory. In the words of the director of the local development organization, "We're so fortunate that, given the economy and that kind of thing, we have robust employers in downtown." Indeed.

[Source: msnbc.com]

Kizashi Killed: Suzuki Reportedly Canceling Large Car Plans

Suzuki Motors will reportedly scrap its plans for a larger, more upscale sedan based on its trio of Kizashi concepts in an effort to cut costs and production. In a report last week by Reuters citing Nikkei, Suzuki will focus on reducing its expenditures rather than investing in the development an all-new car in an ever-shrinking segment already occupied by well-established players. Its larger, more luxurious models were slated to make their debut sometime in 2010, but as global demand dwindles on all segment levels, such a huge project was deemed too much for the Japanese automaker. In concept form, the Kizashi cars utilized highly fuel efficient powertrains ranging from a 2.0L turbo diesel four-cylinder to a more powerful 3.6L V-6 engine The Nikkei also reported that Suzuki officials have opted to delay the 2010 opening of plants in Russia and Thailand as a result of lackluster sales. Source: Reuters

MotoCzysz working on new green motorcycle?

Michael Czysz has been working on a new American sportbike for the last few years, one that he hopes will someday compete with the best machines in the world. Oddly, despite being a huge market for motorcycles and for motorsports, America doesn't really have a competitive presence at the world's top levels of two-wheeled racing. There have been efforts in the past, but nothing sustained. MotoCzysz hopes to change all that with the radical C1 prototype, but there's still a long way to go and funding is tight.

Is there another way Czysz could attack the problem that might attract more investment? Sure, he could try and go green. In fact, the team is already working on a green motorcycle concept, though it doesn't seem to be taking center stage at this point. We're unclear as to what's powering the prototype, but Czysz says it's not electric - yet. Diesel? Could be, as Czysz mentions oil-burners by name along with direct injection. We're pretty sure all of this is in the early planning stages, but it's something we'll keep our eyes on in the future.

[Source: Superbike Planet]

2008 Skoda Roomster review

CarAdvice rating:

Model Tested: 1.9 TDI manual

Recommended Retail Price: $26,990 (1.6 FSI), $28,990 (1.9 TDI)

Options Fitted: None

- by Karl Peskett

What’s the definition of cute? Ugly, but interesting.

Certainly by definition then, the new Skoda Roomster is cute. However it hasn’t had the warmest reception, judging by the responses we got in our week long test drive. Men were indifferent, but women, without exception, said it was ugly.

Are they justified? Well it’s certainly unusual. And it’s designed for that reason. But here’s the thing: Judging a book by its cover is a serious sin. Those who are critical will be the ones missing out.

You see, not only is the Roomster immensely practical, it’s also brilliant to drive. And fun too. You know the old saying - “Looks can be deceiving”, and in this case, it’s certainly true. Although it has a tallboy stance, the Roomster’s stability on the road has to be experienced to be believed.

In the same way that the Mitsubishi Colt Ralliart alters your perception about defying a high centre of gravity, the Roomster simply hangs on to the road, and doesn’t roll anywhere near what you’d expect.

Fiat First Solar Energy Car Named Phylla

Phylla is the name of a prototype electric car with solar energy that could debut in 2010 and he sees involved in the project and Fiat and other companies, mostly Piedmonts. Finally arriving photos of the prototype and the statements by the president of the Piedmont Region, ready to buy a first batch of cars as a pilot experiment to produce in large series.

JDM Nissan Gets "Sunny" Behandlung

Amerikaner, immer darum bemüht, wieder alles in die Kategorie der "Muscle Cars", wahrscheinlich wäre ein bisschen mehr zweifelhaft, was zu tun mit so etwas wie dieser frühen 1970er Nissan B110 (Datsun 1200 für Sie und mich) Pick-up. Eine solche Problem japanischen Tuning-Shop RS-Yasu, die gehackt haben und resto'd dieser "Sunny" Sanitora zu einer Hüft-und schöne Ergebnis. Details sind selten als Quelle Website ist auf Japanisch, aber die Bilder zeichnen ein recht vollständiges Bild über ihre eigene, genießen sie in unserer Galerie vor.

Kia reveals next generation Borrego fuel cell vehicle

Kia Motors Corporation’s Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle (FCEV) programme has taken a major technological step forward with the global unveiling of the all-new Kia Borrego FCEV at the Los Angeles International Auto Show.
Numerous innovations including a higher output 154 horsepower fuel cell and a new 450-volt Supercapacitor give the Borrego FCEV higher performance, a greatly extended driving range and cold-weather starting capability to operate in sub-zero temperatures.

Available with two and three tank systems with 70MPa pressure, the Borrego FCEV’s power plant is located under the centre floor and boasts an additional 47 horsepower of power to produce a peak output of 154 horsepower (a 44-percent increase compared to the previous generation) and propels the vehicle to a top speed of 161 kph while boasting a best-in-class system efficiency of 62 percent. With a 202-litre hydrogen storage tank located underneath the vehicle and ahead of the rear wheels, this latest Kia Motors research vehicle has a range of around 685 km.

“Entering this new phase of our program is really exciting,” said Dr. Hyun Soon Lee, president of research and development for the Hyundai-Kia Automotive Group.

“Now we will be able to build fuel cell electric vehicles in higher volumes and lower cost for fleet testing and the latest Borrego FCEV drives us closer to making fuel cell vehicles available for consumers.”

Demonstrating its ability to conduct engineering of both gasoline/diesel production models and fuel cell research vehicles simultaneously, Kia Motors will be able to significantly improve the efficiency and quality control of future fuel cell vehicle manufacturing processes.

With the use of lightweight aluminum body shell components, the Borrego FCEV has a power-to-weight ratio that is similar to the new production model SUV. The FCEV also retains the roomy cabin, low noise levels and overall driving refinement of its new gasoline/diesel-powered sibling.

The Borrego follows on from Kia’s current environmental technology showcase model – the Sportage FCEV.

Source: Kia

Mercedes & Audi Warn U.S. Dealers to Stop Exports

No thanks to the weak dollar, the U.S. car market has become a very attractive market for overseas buyers looking to take advantage of the current exchange rates that favour several currencies including the Euro.

According to a report from Automotive News, Mercedes-Benz & Audi USA have discovered a significant number of cars designated for the U.S. ending up in the hands of overseas buyers. Neither company knows the exact number of exported vehicles –at least that’s what they support. While the two German luxury carmakers say that they won’t take immediate actions, they did warn their dealers that in doing this, they could be violating their franchise agreement.

Via: AN (sub. Req.)

Source: Mercedes & Audi Warn U.S. Dealers to Stop Exports

SEAT prices the old Audi A4 new Exeo

When SEAT announced it was to launch a new flagship that was little more than an old Audi A4 with some new trim, we were puzzled. Everyone was puzzled. Was this Volkswagen’s big plan to revive its Spanish subsidiary? Indeed it was, as we quickly discovered when we got to Paris to find it sitting there right in front of us. And now, the re-schnozzed A4 has a pricetag.

The Exeo will be offered in four trim levels and with three different engine options, including 141- and 168-horsepower versions of the group’s common-rail turbo-diesel, as well as a 198 hp turbo four gasoline engine, each mated to a six-speed manual transmission. So, just how much will it cost overseas buyers to buy an old Audi with a less prestigious nameplate? Pricing in the UK starts at £17,740 (around $25,600 USD). That’s a couple grand shy of what an A4 costs in the British market (or the list price what a then-new A4 ran a couple of years ago).

Suzuki unveil new Intruder C1800RT

Suzuki GB has added a flagship model to its growing cruiser range, with the addition of the all-new Intruder C1800RT. Arriving in dealers now, the new model fills the gap at the top of the range, by taking the mighty power of the M1800R sports cruiser and giving customers a long distance, traditionally styled cruiser with a host of additions offered as standard to aid touring.
Featuring a large touring windshield, saddlebags, passenger backrest, pullback handlebars and floorboards, the new C1800RT is available in very limited quantities with just 90 models coming to the UK.

Suzuki GB's George Cheeseman announced the new addition, commenting, "The M1800R was launched just over two years ago and has proved a huge success. While it offered exceptional power and styling, we have been missing a model designed for covering larger distances on, and so it's great to be able to offer the C1800RT in the UK. With its relaxed riding position and additional touring kit, it's the perfect cruiser to cover vast distances on in comfort."

The Intruder C1800RT is available to order from all authorised Suzuki dealers, with a recommended retail price of £10,000. With just 90 coming to the UK, interested customers are advised to move fast.

Source: Suzuki

Third-gen Audi A8 to be “stronger, sharper, more precise”