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Steve Cropley meets Ford Global Product Development Vice President Raj Nair We窶决e at Ford窶冱 Lommel test track on the Belgian-Dutch border. Raj Nair is talking animatedly with a group of his engineers, making classic cornering gestures with his hands as they walk towards the glassy, chalet-like cabin the dynamics team maintains for conferences and meetings.It is hidden well away from the admin offices, squeezed between an enormous skidpan called The Black Lake and the now-famous Track Seven handling circuit. Here, every European Ford of the past 20 years has had its steering and handling polished to market-leading levels.A year ago, 48-year-old Nair was appointed to a job that has become iconic both within Ford and beyond. The title is vice president, global product development, which means that, across the 110-year-old group窶冱 worldwide empire, Nair leads the teams that create every new model and takes personal responsibility for making them good. Why does this job matter outside Ford? Because two recent incumbents, Richard Parry-Jones in the 窶�90s and Derrick Kuzak in the 2000s, brought enormous improvements to the driving quality of traditionally indifferent Fords 窶� and then sold the idea of good dynamics to customers so effectively that Renault, PSA, Opel and even Volkswagen were forced to lift their game.It is no exaggeration that because of Ford窶冱 progress with the Focus, the VW Golf, formerly a champion of the cheap-to-make torsion beam rear suspension, was forced to adopt a multi-link layout to match the Ford on ride.Like the most modern managers, Nair is modest about his elevation and you get the feeling that self-deprecation has always come easily. 窶弋his is the dream job,窶� he says, 窶忖ntil you get it. I窶冦 not sure I ever saw myself in a job so big. "In fact, it窶冱 best not to think too much about the number of people who technically work for me [later revealed as 20,000]. You窶决e better concentrating on the decisions you窶况e got to make. And Ford has great people to help me with those. I窶况e worked with a lot of them already.窶�Nair is the ultimate car guy (he calls it 窶徃earhead窶�). As a newly licensed kid in St Louis, he crashed his father窶冱 Dodge estate, then persuaded him to replace it with 窶徭omething we could both live with窶�: a Dodge Cordoba coupﾃｩ with a 6.5-litre V8 and four-barrel carb.At his old college 窶� he won a place at the GM Institute in Flint, Michigan, now renamed Kettering University 窶� they tell stories about him riding a motorcycle to Atlantic City, breaking his collarbone in an accident, then riding 700 miles home. While studying, he also saved enough money working in GM窶冱 St Louis truck plant to put himself through the Skip Barber racing school, getting good enough to race the instructors and progress to Formula 2000. 窶弸ou think you窶决e good,窶� he says dismissively, 窶彗nd then you meet the guys who really are. I enjoyed driving, but it made much more sense to stick to engineering.窶�Understandably, given his background, Nair is quick to acknowledge the role of car enthusiasts in the creation of good cars. 窶弋hey窶决e big influencers,窶� he says. 窶弃eople look for the guy who knows cars, to see what he thinks. But we like them for other reasons, too. They understand the emotional side that also sells cars. And we like making the cars that excite them, like that Fiesta out there.窶� He gestures at a gleaming red ST visible through the glass. Later, Nair and I take to Track Seven, in both the ST and an astonishing prototype of the forthcoming 1.0-litre Mondeo, where he swiftly demonstrates that he is a quick, smooth, analytical driver.Back in the chalet, Nair briskly dumps my suggestion that despite One Ford, a model from one part of the empire might not fit another. He insists even the Mustang, an American icon once renowned for soggy handling, will hit Ford窶冱 global standards and give a good account of itself in Europe. Specifically, he rejects my suggestion that the next Mondeo might lack 窶廢uropean edge窶� because much of the work was done in the US. 窶弩e don窶冲 drape ourselves in any flag,窶� he says.窶廾ur teams have global experience. Our vice president of powertrains is a Brit, who is now based in Dearborn and spent much of his career in Germany. Our vice president of engineering is a Vietnamese American. Our vehicle dynamics supervisor is a Belgian, working in the US to a global DNA. The guys who make our decisions are a cosmopolitan group, but what unites us is we窶决e all from Ford. Cut us and we bleed blue.窶�None of which is to suggest that today窶冱 Fords are perfect. Nair readily acknowledges 窶彗reas in our cars that cause concern窶� but points out that such an attitude makes them better. The Focus窶冱 steering feel, loved in its early iterations, became less loved (while still being close to class best) when the third edition adopted all-electric power steering. It窶冱 clear from his expression that Nair knows the subject well and it has received a lot of work.窶弋he latest set-up happens to be close to what was originally the European settings,窶� he explains, 窶彙ut it窶冱 no longer a matter of European or American tuning. We窶决e shooting for the same standards globally.窶�Nair doubts that really big leaps 窶� like the giant stride from Escort to Focus 窶� are likely on his watch. 窶弋he spread between good and bad is tighter now. Future differences will lie in how you differentiate your products from others. What窶冱 the vision? Which things are you going to prioritise? Everyone will have a view; right now, you can see big differences between Volkswagen and us. Getting that right will drive successful companies. And we intend to be successful.窶�

2013/05/22 05:30 Autocar RSS Feed

We pitch Vauxhall's new Cascada convertible against the Audi A5 cabriolet. Which is better? Let窶冱 be honest: when you窶决e buying a convertible, the importance of how well it drives is nearly always overridden by how good it looks and the kind of statement it makes. So you窶囘 take a rag-top Audi over a similar-sized Vauxhall, wouldn窶冲 you?Perhaps not any more. Vauxhall has given us an intriguing question to answer with its latest soft-top, the sleek and desirable Cascada. It has jumped a class in size over the forgettable Astra TwinTop that preceded it, gaining an attractive new look, a much more premium cabin and higher price as a result. Almost right into Audi A5 cabriolet territory, in other words. So in a class where image is everything, would you still go for that Audi when Vauxhall is offering much of the same for that bit less?To give the Cascada a fair chance, we窶决e testing an apple against an apple 窶� a model with an already near-range-topping engine/trim combination that has been made plusher (so more Audi-like) with optional extras. The base price of ﾂ｣27,595 of our 163bhp 2.0 CDTi model in range-topping Elite trim quickly heads north of ﾂ｣35,000 once desirable options such as an Audi-style Nappa leather interior, a whole host of electronic trickery and adaptive dampers are added.The A5 cabriolet that matches this Cascada窶冱 spec closest on paper is the 175bhp 2.0 TDI (admittedly, with an automatic gearbox against the Cascada窶冱 manual, so we窶冤l leave this out of the comparison) in ﾂ｣37,445 S-line trim, which swells to just over ﾂ｣40,000 with some added infotainment options and something that窶冱 surely now crucial in Baltic Britain: heated seats.Baltic are the conditions awaiting us as we head down the M3 and M27 towards England窶冱 answer to France窶冱 Mediterranean coastline in search of picturesque locations to pose the convertibles in front of and to introduce them to some well heeled and image-conscious locals. Our first port of call is Sandbanks, surely Britain窶冱 most exclusive seaside postcode. It still seems shut for the winter, despite this being spring, so it窶冱 over the river on the car ferry to the pretty seaside town of Swanage for some topless motoring.On the morning drive to the ferry, it窶冱 the Vauxhall that impresses more. Its cabin seems to stay that bit toastier than the Audi窶冱 in the wintery weather and it proves to be a more comfortable motorway companion. You窶囘 expect 19-inch wheels and a convertible body style to be a recipe for discomfort, but not so in the Cascada. Indeed, it rides noticeably better than the A5, which wears smaller 18-inch alloys. The Vauxhall窶冱 adaptive dampers make things much more supple than the passive dampers in the Audi. The telltale sign of scuttle shake 窶� a wobbly rear-view mirror 窶� is absent in the Cascada and marginal in the A5. Let窶冱 be clear: the Audi is never uncomfortable, but you窶决e always aware that dynamic compromises have been made in chopping the roof off 窶� something the Vauxhall does a better job of disguising. Around town, neither car does a particularly good job of concealing its heft or compromised structure by crashing over more abrasive road surfaces, but the Vauxhall noses it in this department, too. The A5 cabriolet is another Audi that, in S-line trim, just doesn窶冲 ride with any real grace or suppleness on UK roads.Where the Audi does trump the Vauxhall is in engine refinement and performance. The A5窶冱 2.0-litre turbodiesel is a noticeably quieter engine than the Cascada窶冱 similar-sized unit, and the small power and torque advantages that the Audi has on paper are amplified more on the road. The A5 feels much brisker. Back into town and to Swanage, and we pose the cars on a public slipway for some pictures. Locals and tourists that have braved the cold have a nosey as they walk past. The biggest seal of approval is given to 窶徼he red one窶�, as the Audi quickly becomes known, but the Vauxhall is not without its fans. Certainly, no one turns up their nose at the fact that it is wearing 窶椀nly窶� a Vauxhall badge.It窶冱 the Vauxhall that I jump into for the drive back through Dorset and Hampshire into the New Forest on some quieter roads. On first acquaintance, the Cascada has one of the finest and most luxurious interiors ever to grace a Vauxhall. The quality of the leather on the big, comfortable seats and stitched dashboard is exemplary, but it cannot hide a centre console lifted straight out of the Astra, on which the Cascada is based.In a car with premium aspirations, the ugly, black, plasticky array of buttons is unwelcome. Contrast this to the Apple-like simplicity and quality of the A5, and the Vauxhall cannot compete. It窶冱 as much an issue of perceived quality as anything. We doubt that the volume knob is going to fall off the Cascada, for instance, but everything about the Audi 窶� from the fonts and graphics used on the sat-nav to the tactile response you get from pressing buttons 窶� is superior.Which is a shame, because when we reach some twistier, more demanding roads in the New Forest, the Cascada outshines the A5 again. Neither car has particularly communicative steering, but you get more feedback from the Cascada, and extra weight can be added by hitting the Sport button on the dashboard.It窶冱 a similar story when you throw the cars into some hard corners. Neither is particularly involving (these are cars designed for touring, remember), but the Vauxhall comes closer to putting a smile on your face. That extra stiffness and body control are evident, helped by the torque steer-reducing and stability-improving HiPerStrut front suspension, taken from Vauxhall窶冱 Astra and Insignia VXR models. Heading back up the M3 to London, it would appear that we have a winner: the Cascada. Well, erm, no. It all comes back to that original point of why you buy a convertible. That the Vauxhall is the better car to drive is clear, but whether it is the better car is a moot point in a class with much wider considerations. The Audi窶冱 interior is that much nicer, and it feels special enough for its dynamic shortcomings to be slightly excused. And you can always opt out of the S-line suspension for a more comfortable life.Neither car is exceptional to drive; the Vauxhall is good, the Audi acceptable. But the gap between them is not wide enough to declare that you should overlook the extra desirability, quality and better residuals of the Audi to buy the Vauxhall.It all comes back to image, something that new Opel/Vauxhall boss Karl-Thomas Neumann has admitted is a problem for the brand as he seeks to shift Vauxhall out of the middle market and into the semi-premium segment that Volkswagen has pretty much got sewn up at the moment. The cars aren窶冲 the problem, says Neumann. It窶冱 the badge.Toppling the A5 was always going to be a tough task for the Cascada. That it gets so close is commendable. Had it been up against a convertible a rung lower in the premium stakes 窶� the VW Eos, for instance 窶� the result would likely have been different.Vauxhall should not give up hope in its semi-premium quest. It窶冱 certainly more likely to get there with image-boosting cars like this than with boasts in Powerpoint presentations. We窶决e pleased that the Cascada exists, and should it go on to achieve the success that it deserves, Vauxhall may no longer have an image problem on its hands after all. 

2013/05/22 05:10 Autocar RSS Feed

Ford Motor, aiming to boost output of key models, is scaling back its annual summer shutdown to one week from two weeks at 20 North America plants.

2013/05/22 05:01 Automotive News Breaking News Feed

Filed under: Toys/Games, McLaren Those of you who were following along with the live Xbox One keynote this afternoon have likely already seen this video, but for the rest of the world, this is the first look at the all-new Forza Motorsport 5. Slated to be a launch title for the new Xbox gaming console, Forza 5 is tipped to offer racing like no other video game before it, with controls and graphical presentation on a new level. The demo seen here shows that, to no one's surprise, the McLaren P1 will have a star turn in the next-generation game. The video shows both the P1 and its F1 forefather in a race through narrow city streets, with both cars rendered in eye-popping detail. Actual game play footage will ultimately have to win us over, but it's safe to say that all signs point to a killer racing sim. Check out the video for yourself below.Continue reading The first Forza Motorsport 5 trailer is hereThe first Forza Motorsport 5 trailer is here originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 21 May 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

2013/05/22 01:00 Autoblog

Filed under: Etc., Videos, NissanLike presumably any other 17-year-old out there, Zach Sobiech was ecstatic when a Nissan GT-R rolled into his driveway. As you can see in the image above, he had an ear-to-ear smile as he got to spend a week driving his dream car - but what you can't see is that he was just weeks away from losing a four-year battle against a rare form of bone cancer called osteosarcoma. Nissan found out about the teen and his dream of driving a GT-R, and actually did something about it. Says Mike Disser from Nissan Marketing Communications, "The team at Nissan was inspired by Zach's story. Loaning a GT-R to Zach to help make one of his dreams come true was an opportunity to do something uplifting and rewarding for a very special car-guy." "You don't have to find out you're dying to start living" Diagnosed with the cancer at the age of 14, Zach fought back with inspiring optimism and an infectious smile, but he ultimately lost his battle with cancer on May 20. In the video posted below, Zach says "you don't have to find out you're dying to start living," and hopefully, his heartwarming spirit will live on with those who watch it. Zach's love for the GT-R starts to show around the 5:30 mark, but we definitely suggest that you grab a box of Kleenex and watch the entire 22-minute video. This video was posted on his 18th birthday ­- May 3 - when he had just weeks to live. Be sure to check out some of the videos for songs that he wrote including "Clouds" (also embedded below).Continue reading Zach Sobiech was a Nissan GT-R fan, will always be our heroZach Sobiech was a Nissan GT-R fan, will always be our hero originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 21 May 2013 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

2013/05/22 00:30 Autoblog

The National Automobile Dealers Association and General Motors began reaching out Tuesday with assistance to dealers and victims affected by Monday's tornado in Oklahoma.

2013/05/22 00:23 Automotive News Breaking News Feed

Filed under: Car Buying, Minivan/Van, Sedan, Kia, Luxury What, you didn't think that Kia was going to let Hyundai have all the big-dollar fun, did you? Hyundai may have blazed a trail upmarket with its Genesis Sedan and more recently, the Equus, but its corporate sibling, Kia, has arguably been autodom's hottest brand the last few years, with increases in style, tech, consumer consideration and sales that are the envy of the industry. So it's no surprise that it isn't stopping its North American product onslaught with its just-introduced 2014 Cadenza sedan, it's reportedly readying its premium-minded rear-drive Quoris cruiser for a launch here next year. That's according to a new report from Automotive.com, which spoke with Kia officials at the media launch of the Cadenza. The oddly named Quoris ("derived from the English words 'core' and 'quality,'" says Kia), will likely nuzzle up against its Equus stablemate when it debuts, carrying an estimated $50,000 to $70,000 price tag. To our eyes, the Kia looks markedly more contemporary than the Equus inside-and-out (no surprise, it's a much newer design). And there's even more reason for optimism on Kia's behalf: the Hyundai Equus has been doing just fine on the sales front - even before its recently introduced facelift. So it's not unreasonable to interpret the luxury sedan market as open to the idea of owning a full-size luxury sedan from a non-traditional country. In other news, Kia recently exhumed its elderly Sedona minivan, dusting it off, putting a little more frosting on its flanks and trotting it out to customers anew for 2014. The people mover's odd, Lazarus-like reanimation moment apparently isn't lost on Kia executives, who still very much want a modern minivan. According to the same report, an all-new Sedona, likely informed by 2011's funky KV7 Concept, is still a ways off - but we could hear more about it as early as later this year.Kia to make push upmarket with Quoris next year, new Sedona also likely originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 21 May 2013 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

2013/05/22 00:00 Autoblog

Posted on 05.21.2013 19:00 by Simona

2013/05/21 19:00 Top Speed

Ford is confident it can preserve its manufacturing profile in Canada despite uncompetitive operating costs tied to the high Canadian dollar, the company's top executive in the country said today.

2013/05/21 17:49 Automotive News Breaking News Feed

Major automakers and auto dealers told a Senate panel Tuesday that they remain opposed to legislation that would prohibit rental car companies from renting or selling vehicles that are subject to a federal safety recall.

2013/05/21 23:34 Automotive News Breaking News Feed

Filed under: Etc., Safety, Diesel Before you head to the pharmacy to refill your Lipitor prescription, check this out. The American Heart Association's journal on Arteriosclerosis, Thrombosis and Vascular Biology has concluded that high levels of vehicle emissions can cause high cholesterol in mice, which could indicate that air pollution is a contributing factor in high cholesterol or vascular disease. In the study, mice were exposed to diesel exhaust for two weeks "at a particulate mass concentration within the range of what mine workers usually are exposed to" (according to UCLA), which, not surprisingly, had a negative effect on the bloodstream. First, the air pollution altered the HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein, a.k.a. "good cholesterol") to the point that the positive properties of the protein were reduced and could lead to high levels of LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein, "bad cholesterol") and hardening of the arteries. While this seems like a study related to extreme pollution, it draws yet another linkage between our environments and our health.Car emissions can turn good cholesterol bad originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 21 May 2013 18:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

2013/05/21 23:33 Autoblog

Posted on 05.21.2013 18:00 by Justin Cupler

2013/05/21 18:00 Top Speed

Filed under: Budget, Sedan, Mitsubishi It's been about a month since we first saw the Mitsubishi Concept G4 at the Shanghai Motor Show, but now the automaker has revealed the first images for the sedan in production trim. Wearing the Mitsubishi Attrage nameplate, this sedan will go on sale this summer in Thailand and could eventually makes its way to the US. Despite being essentially a sedan version of its subcompact Mirage, Mitsubishi refers to the Attrage as its next-generation global compact sedan, suggesting it's a fair bit larger than its hatchback counterpart. We only have this single image to go on, but the new Attrage obviously has the same overall look as the Concept G4. As expected, it does lose some of the more conceptual bits, including the fancy headlights, grills and wheels. While the styling has us thinking back to the late 1990s, the true advantage of the Attrage is likely to be its fuel consumption. US fuel economy for the Attrage hasn't been released, but the closely related 2014 Mirage is expected to return 37 miles per gallon in the city and 44 mpg on the highway using the same 1.2-liter inline four-cylinder engine paired with either a five-speed manual or a continuously variable transmission. Scroll down for the brief press release for the Thai-built Attrage.Continue reading Mitsubishi previews new Attrage global sedanMitsubishi previews new Attrage global sedan originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 21 May 2013 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

2013/05/21 23:01 Autoblog

Filed under: EV/Plug-in, Hybrid, Fisker Chinese company Wanxiang was in the news earlier this year, as it moved to acquire bankrupt automotive battery company A123. Turns out, while that was taking place in the public eye, Wanxiang was also working with VL Automotive - of Bob Lutz and Destino fame - to try and buy out Fisker Automotive. According to unnamed sources speaking to Reuters, VL and Wanxiang made Fisker an offer earlier in May to buy the troubled plug-in hybrid automaker through a "prepackaged bankruptcy deal." The talks are apparently ongoing and could well fall through, but it certainly makes sense for both Wanxiang and VL to want Fisker to survive in some manner. A123 supplied the Karma's battery cells and VL needs Karma bodies if it's going to build more than a small number of V8-powered Destinos. At the end of April, Lutz wrote an article about Fisker's DOE Loan in which he called the Karma, "quite possibly the most beautiful four-door sedan ever." In that article, he also wrote, "The green craze is, frankly, ebbing, and interest in conventional cars remains strong." He's also called his gasoline-powered Destino the Karma that people will actually want to buy. Reuters also notes there is another deal in the works from European and Hong Kong investors that would buy Fisker's $171-million debt that it owes the US DOE.Bob Lutz and VL Automotive, Wanxiang trying to buy Fisker originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 21 May 2013 17:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

2013/05/21 22:27 Autoblog

Filed under: Coupe, Performance, Videos, Ferrari, Design/Style It's been a couple of years since we last heard about Holger Schubert and his award-winning office/garage, but it looks like the city of Los Angeles, thankfully, did not force him to tear down the bridge that gives his Ferrari 512 BBi arguably the nicest parking spot in California. Petrolicious is back again with another well-done video, which finally introduces us to Schubert as well as his lust-worthy Ferrari. As for the structure, it is half garage and half work space with an office, couch, bookshelf and television, and one hell of a view. There is a ramp that raises to allow the Ferrari to roll backward out of the garage before starting up on the aforementioned bridge that sits 16-feet above the ground. The car itself is an equally admirable piece of art, with a wedge-like shape and its reserved dark gray hue. If you're not the jealous type, scroll down to meet Schubert and his incredible Ferrari.Continue reading Meet the man whose house is designed around his carMeet the man whose house is designed around his car originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 21 May 2013 16:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

2013/05/21 21:57 Autoblog

Posted on 05.21.2013 17:07 by Sulthoni , Serafim

2013/05/21 17:07 Top Speed

Posted on 05.21.2013 17:00 by Simona

2013/05/21 17:00 Top Speed

Filed under: Etc. Are you the next new member of the Autoblog team? We're looking to add a new contract freelance writer to our ranks, and if you're it, we want to know. You are hopefully familiar with our style and already know that we write about cars and the automotive industry obsessively, authoritatively and with a personal touch. Here's what we're after: Daily news writer: This position will require 6-8 hours of availability per day, five days per week to write and produce daily news posts. Availability during normal North American working hours is preferable, though not a requirement. Likewise, location in North America, particularly Michigan, California or New York City is preferred, though not required. Professional writing experience is necessary, and preference will be given to those with experience in the automotive space. This position, at least initially, will not include reviewing vehicles or attending auto shows (either foreign and domestic). Maybe you'll get there, but that's not what we are looking for or need right now. Want to apply? Read on!Continue reading Want to work for Autoblog? We're looking for a new writer! [UPDATE]Want to work for Autoblog? We're looking for a new writer! [UPDATE] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 21 May 2013 11:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

2013/05/21 16:31 Autoblog

Volkswagen plans to refit more than a quarter million 2009-12 diesel cars to prevent North American customers from mistakenly pumping gasoline into the fuel tanks.

2013/05/21 21:36 Automotive News Breaking News Feed

Filed under: Performance, Videos, Hatchback, Renault, Specialty The Renault Mégane R.S. Red Bull Racing RB8 is a special edition hatchback celebrating the company's third year in a row powering Infiniti Red Bull Racing to the Formula One Constructor's Championship. The French carmaker did the same thing last year with the Megane R.S. Red Bull Racing RB7, but whereas last year's model came in the black and yellow livery associated with Renault factory racing teams, this one hews closer to Infiniti Red Bull colors, with an exclusive Crépuscule Blue finish and platinum gray accents. Other signs as to the hatchack's purpose are the Red Bull logos on the rear quarter panels, the badging on the sills and inside and the laurel stickers on the rear windows. Helping fulfill the buyer's need for speed are a set of 19-inch black wheels shod in the same Bridgestone rubber that got the Megane around the Nürburgring in record time for a production front-wheel-drive car. The car also includes the first use of Renault's new R-Link multimedia tablet and the second generation of the R.S. Monitor. It will go on sale in 26 countries that sadly fail to include ours. Its arrival in French dealerships is slated for June at a starting price of 36,000 euro ($46,445 US, taxes included), and it will be withdrawn from sale on September 30, 2013 to make good on its limited-edition promise. There's more on it in the press release and video below.Continue reading Renault and Red Bull Racing team up for awesome sports Megane [w/video]Renault and Red Bull Racing team up for awesome sports Megane [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 21 May 2013 16:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

2013/05/21 21:31 Autoblog

Filed under: Podcasts, Spy Photos, Technology, BMW, Honda, Mercedes-Benz, Nissan, Design/Style2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, BMW 2 Series, People trust autonomous cars Episode #334 of the Autoblog Podcast is here, and this week, Dan Roth, Zach Bowman and Jeff Ross talk about the 2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, the BMW 2 Series recently snagged by spy photographers, and a new study that indicates public support for autonomous automobiles. We wrap up with your questions and comments, and for those of you who hung with us live on our UStream channel, thanks for taking the time. You can follow along after the jump with our Q&A. Thanks for listening! Autoblog Podcast #334: Topics: 2014 Mercedes Benz S Class BMW 2 Series People (apparently) trust autonomous cars In the Autoblog Garage: 2013 Nissan Juke 2013 Honda Civic Hosts: Dan Roth, Zach Bowman, Jeff Ross Runtime: 01:35:28 Get the podcast: [UStream] Listen live on Mondays at 10PM Eastern at UStream [iTunes] Subscribe to the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes [RSS] Add the Autoblog Podcast feed to your RSS aggregator [MP3] Download the MP3 directly Feedback: Email: Podcast at Autoblog dot com Review the show in iTunes

2013/05/21 21:16 Autoblog

Filed under: Coupe, Performance, Honda, McLaren As one of the premier sports cars in the world, the Porsche 911 is always driving around with a target on its rear-engined backside. If a new report is to be believed, the latest automaker with plans to build a 911-fighting sports coupe could be McLaren. Motor Trend is reporting that the recent news that Honda and McLaren are teaming up to build Formula One racecars could bear road-going fruit as well. According to the article, the unnamed entry-level McLaren coupe may be powered by a Honda-sourced engine, but a detuned version of the 3.8-liter V8 from the MP4-12C is said to be more likely. All in, though, there is no solid information on the car just yet. As a reminder, M/T points out that the last time McLaren partnered up with a mainstream automaker, the world was introduced to the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren.McLaren pondering Honda-powered 911 killer? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 21 May 2013 16:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

2013/05/21 21:02 Autoblog

Posted on 05.21.2013 16:00 by Simona

2013/05/21 16:00 Top Speed

After three frenetic years overseeing Ford's ambitious Asia Pacific expansion plans, including the construction of nine plants, Joe Hinrichs returned to the Dearborn, Mich.

2013/05/20 05:01 Automotive News Breaking News Feed

Filed under: BMW, Toyota, Earnings/Financials An annual market study of the strongest brands across various industries has seen Toyota leapfrog BMW as the world's most valuable automotive brand. Toyota's 2013 brand value rose to $24.5 billion, up 12 percent versus 2012 numbers according to market research company Millward Brown's BrandZ Top 100 Most Valuable Global Brands list. BMW's value fell slightly; down by 2 percent to a total of $24 billion. Mercedes-Benz finished in third place in the automotive category, up 11 percent from 2012 for a valuation of $18 billion. Honda ($12.4 billion, down 2 percent) and Nissan ($10.2 billion, up 3 percent) rounded out the top five for the category. Volkswagen was the only other auto brand that finished in the top 100 overall, in 100th place. Audi made the greatest percentage gain over 2012, up 18 percent to $5.5 billion, but finished outside of the top 100. Technology companies dominated the overall list, with Apple, Google and IBM ranking one through three. Couture brand Prada was 2013's biggest gainer, rising by 63 percent over 2012.Toyota passes BMW as most valuable car brand originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 21 May 2013 15:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

2013/05/21 20:33 Autoblog

In order to reduce alcohol-related deaths, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) recommended that all 50 states lower the legal blood alcohol content (BAC) level to 0.05. The recommendation was among 19 other suggestions, which include stiffer punishments, better enforcement of existing laws, and wider use of technology to curb alcohol-related crashes and deaths. According [...]

2013/05/21 19:40 Rumor Central

Ever since its introduction, the R35 Nissan GT-R has kept its supercar competitors up at night. Since it originally debuted, Godzilla has evolved with power upgrades, suspension and chassis revisions, and now a new Track Edition model. That car is put to the test on this episode of Ignition to find out whether the GT-R [...]

2013/05/21 19:30 Rumor Central

Posted on 05.21.2013 15:00 by Simona

2013/05/21 15:00 Top Speed

Car dealers were recovering from damage and organizing aid to survivors today after a two-mile-wide tornado ravaged an Oklahoma City suburb, but there were no reports of the massive twister directly hitting dealerships.

2013/05/21 20:06 Automotive News Breaking News Feed

Filed under: Safety, Videos, The List Would you know what to do if your car crashed into the sea and began to sink? For every foot you descend towards Davey Jones' Locker, 850 pounds of pressure are being exerted on your car door, making the simple act of opening it and exiting an impossibility at the worst possible time. For this episode of The List, we've brought our hosts, Jessi and Patrick, to the experts at Amphibious Medics to learn the various techniques for escaping a car underwater. That's right, there's more than one school of thought on the best course of action in these situations, and we're going to try them all. While our hosts express their preference for which technique worked best for them, we're no experts and encourage you to do your own research. Of course, we set up a completely controlled situation wherein we could ensure the safety of Jessi and Patrick, so don't try this at home with your winter beater and a local pond. We found a location perfectly suited for dunking cars, hired some trained medics and divers to watch their backs, and enlisted the services of the show's trusty BMW 3 Series (see its other starring roles in Work as a Professional Stunt Driver and Buy a Used Car Online) to play the part of the hapless sinking auto. Will this knowledge ever come in handy? About 400 people die from vehicle-related drownings in the United States each year, so the odds are ever in your favor on this one. But if you ever do find yourself slowly sinking underwater in your car, you'll be glad you scrolled down to watch. Have an RSS feed? Click here to add The List. Click here to subscribe to The List in iTunes. Click here to learn more about our hosts, Jessi and Patrick. Click here to find out when the next episode of The List will be televised on Speed. Continue reading The List #0147: Escape a Car UnderwaterThe List #0147: Escape a Car Underwater originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 21 May 2013 14:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

2013/05/21 19:57 Autoblog

Two congressmen -- one a former Ohio auto dealer and the other a Pennsylvania new- and used-car dealer -- have asked the U.S.

2013/05/21 19:36 Automotive News Breaking News Feed

Plans for BMW I-4, Toyota platform

2013/05/21 18:30 Rumor Central

Filed under: Toys/Games Microsoft has just unveiled the third generation of its Xbox gaming console, called Xbox One, and the first game demoed on stage was the fifth installment of the Forza Motorsport franchise. The teaser trailer for Forza Motorsport 5 shown during the keynote pitted the two supercars of McLaren against each other: the original F1 and the upcoming P1. Developed by longtime steward of the franchise, Turn 10 Studios, Forza Motorsport 5 will return to the more traditional simulation-style format of its forebears, as opposed to the open sandbox party world of the more recent Forza Horizon. The new game will be a launch title for Xbox One, so expect a release date in Q4 2013 in time for the holiday shopping season. With a built-in Blu-ray drive, 500 GB hard drive, 8 GB of RAM and 64-bit system architecture, the Xbox One should have the bits underhood to make the best-looking console racing game ever (assuming Sony doesn't move Gran Turismo 6 to its upcoming next-gen Playstation 4 console). We're also pretty excited about the system's built-in Kinect, with a 250k pixel depth sensor. In addition to facilitating gesture- and voice-based commands for Xbox One, the sensor is said to be sensitive enough to measure human body temperature - that's as cool as it is freaky and could have interesting ramifications for hardcore racing simulations. The Xbox One keynote presentation has just finished up, but you can view the whole thing on Xbox.com. Expect a lot more news about the system, Forza 5 and other racing titles as we get close to E3 in June.Forza Motorsport 5 announced for new Xbox One originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 21 May 2013 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

2013/05/21 19:15 Autoblog

A boutique carmaker led by a former General Motors executive Bob Lutz and China's largest auto parts supplier submitted an offer to buy cash-strapped automaker Fisker Automotive, people familiar with the matter told Reuters today.

2013/05/21 19:02 Automotive News Breaking News Feed

Posted on 05.21.2013 14:00 by Tom Burkart

2013/05/21 14:00 Top Speed

Filed under: Budget, Toyota To date, the best idea we have of what the 2014 Toyota Corolla will look like is the shape and styling of the Furia Concept from this year's Detroit Auto Show. Obviously the compact car will turn down the wick a fair bit from that orange machine, and now we have one more scintilla of an idea of what the final product will look like. Published today on Toyota's official Facebook page, the image above clearly shows the rear quarter of the 2014 Corolla S. Though the low angle is pretty wonky, we can make out that the shape of the taillight cluster is very similar to that of the Furia, albeit without the same LED treatment, A hint of a trunk-lid spoiler is also in evidence, and also follows the Furia's lead. Toyota points out that the new Corolla will be shown in earnest on June 6. Expect to see the full version of the car by that date at the latest - online leaks have a tendancy to speed these things up.2014 Toyota Corolla shows just enough to keep us interested originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 21 May 2013 13:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

2013/05/21 18:28 Autoblog

It took Aston Martin six months to transform early sketches of the CC100 Speedster concept into a full-size, running concept car – but, thanks to the magic of this well-shot video, you can watch the entire metamorphosis in four and a half minutes. Although scant on precise details, this video does illustrate the entire process. [...]

2013/05/21 17:40 Rumor Central

Posted on 05.21.2013 13:00 by Simona

2013/05/21 13:00 Top Speed

Posted on 05.21.2013 12:38 by Sulthoni , Serafim

2013/05/21 12:38 Top Speed

When it comes to the 2014 Lexus IS, Japan is one step ahead of the U.S. Toyota Racing Development has announced that visual and performance parts are available to enhance the 2014 Lexus IS F Sport. Japanese consumers can toughen up their sport sedan with a TRD body kit that adds new side skirts and [...]

2013/05/21 17:00 Rumor Central

Filed under: Convertible, Performance, Etc., Marketing/Advertising, Videos, Mazda, UK Playing a game of Frisbee is rarely about power - it's more about agility, precision and open-air enjoyment. Much the same can be said of the Mazda MX-5 Miata, whose charm has always originated more from its finesse and tactility rather than brute strength and outright speed, qualities the evergreen roadster has traditionally lacked. So consider it a fine match that Mazda has taken a couple of its popular convertibles out with a handful of crack Frisbee players and put them on a closed circuit in Surrey, England for a stylish game of catch. It's a simple recipe for entertainment - check out the video by scrolling below.Continue reading Mazda MX-5 Miata is the ultimate Frisbee partnerMazda MX-5 Miata is the ultimate Frisbee partner originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 21 May 2013 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

2013/05/21 17:45 Autoblog

LR2 to become Discovery-based.

2013/05/21 16:30 Rumor Central

Filed under: Sedan, Bentley, First Drives, LuxuryRedefining Super Luxury On A Shrinking Planet Anyone on Earth with access to the Internet, a television or radio for the last 20 years knows that China is no longer the poor stronghold for strict Communist ideals that it was for much of the 20th Century. (Well, at least not in some places.) Traveling to China twice in less than a month - first to Shanghai for a very international auto show and now to Beijing to drive and review the 2014 Bentley Flying Spur - I've learned that there's no lack of personal wealth, at least in two of the world's largest cities. And yet, even I think the scene before me is a little bit ridiculous. Here I am, slowly climbing up a hillside to reach a fortification at something called Zhuanduo Pass, where roughly a dozen pristine examples of Western decadence sit idling their hand-built 12-cylinder engines in the shadow of China's revered and awesome Great Wall. Not five kilometers south of here, I'd passed an old man in traditional all-black garb, literally carrying a bundle of sticks on his back from one side of a village to the other. Now as I look through the snug-fitting and silent side glass of the my $200,000+ palace on wheels, I'm more apt to see fat German tourists crisping in the hot Chinese sun while blowing the equivalent of an average Chinese monthly paycheck on lunch and a few Great Wall souvenirs. Of course, it's nothing like the average Chinese person that Bentley is targeting with this new Flying Spur. There is a rapidly ballooning class of rich and super rich in the People's Republic these days; China can now lay claim to around 100 billionaires (in US dollars), as well as some 60,000+ individuals worth more than $16 million and, famously, now more than 1 million millionaires. Considering that Bentley had a booming year in 2012 by selling 8,510 vehicles, the importance of what is quickly becoming the world's biggest luxury car market is easy to see. And that's why, despite the cost of hauling me from Ann Arbor to Beijing and back, and despite the cognitive dissonance of driving a $200,000+ car through villages whose buildings are probably worth less in total, Bentley jumped through a whole lot of hoops to pull off what it says is the first-ever global vehicle launch in China. I've got to tell you, if this is what being a trailblazer feels like, I could get used to it.Continue reading 2014 Bentley Flying Spur2014 Bentley Flying Spur originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 21 May 2013 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

2013/05/21 16:57 Autoblog

2013/05/21 15:32 Car news

Luxury sedan arriving 2015.

2013/05/21 15:30 Rumor Central

Chrysler-Fiat CEO Sergio Marchionne has issued a written apology to an Italian-American anti-bias organization for saying at the Detroit auto show that an Alfa Romeo needed a "wop" engine.

2013/05/21 16:44 Automotive News Breaking News Feed

Filed under: Etc. Are you the next new member of the Autoblog team? We're looking to add a new contract freelance writer to our ranks, and if you're it, we want to know. You are hopefully familiar with our style and already know that we write about cars and the automotive industry obsessively, authoritatively and with a personal touch. Here's what we're after: Daily news writer: This position will require 6-8 hours of availability per day, five days per week to write and produce daily news posts. Availability during normal North American working hours is preferable, though not a requirement. Likewise, location in North America, particularly Michigan, California or New York City is preferred, though not required. Professional writing experience is necessary, and preference will be given to those with experience in the automotive space. This position, at least initially, will not include reviewing vehicles or attending auto shows (either foreign and domestic). Maybe you'll get there, but that's not what we are looking for or need right now. Want to apply? Read on!Continue reading Want to work for Autoblog? We're looking for a new writer!Want to work for Autoblog? We're looking for a new writer! originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 21 May 2013 11:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

2013/05/21 16:31 Autoblog

Luxury sedan arriving 2015.

2013/05/21 15:30 Rumor Central

Filed under: Performance, Chrysler, Dodge, SRT A monstrous supercharged V8 engine could be in store for Chrysler and SRT products, if recent rumors are to be believed. Allpar is reporting that the forced-induction V8 - Chrysler's first, if this goes down - could make its debut this summer. The story goes that the Hellcat would be based on a 6.2-liter Hemi engine, rather than on the existing 5.7- or 6.4-liter versions of the company's vaunted mill. In any case, the general consensus is that the motor will have gobs of power. Modest estimates call for between 500 to 570 horsepower, with some outliers predicting a figure as high as 600 hp. That figure would put the output would place the Hellcat awfully close to that of the 640-hp V10 in the SRT Viper, too. Allpar contends that a slightly lower powered version would allow Chrysler to keep costs below that of the more powerful Ford Shelby GT500, which might be a sweet spot. The Hellcat could debut in a number of SRT products. SRT versions of the Charger, Challenger and 300 are all up for grabs, as is the rumored SRT Barracuda.Chrysler readying Hellcat V8 with Viper-like power originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 21 May 2013 10:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

2013/05/21 15:57 Autoblog

Two executives at Toyota-affiliated supplier Denso have agreed to plead guilty to conspiring to fix prices and have agreed to cooperate with an ongoing criminal investigation, the federal Justice Department said today.

2013/05/21 15:54 Automotive News Breaking News Feed

Filed under: EV/Plug-in, Tesla Motors Despite the company's recent string of successes, there's still a lot of skepticism about Tesla out there. Some of the negativity focuses on the lack of recharging infrastructure, some on the company's expensive cars and how it'll be difficult to make a mass-market car. And when it comes to the company's stock price - TSLA is currently at around $90 - the predictions are all over the map. Some say it's still worth shorting (that is, predicting it will drop). Some say it could reach $200 before too long; others warn it will fall to somewhere in the $20-$40 range. "There is a fundamental view of a scenario where Tesla becomes the next GM or Ford." Still, the big news - that is, something that's actually happened, not just bloviations about the future - is that Tesla raised more than a billion dollars in cash last week by increasing the amount of debt and equity it was offering. Instead of selling a total 2.7 million common shares, CEO Elon Musk put up 3.39 million, and bought $100 million himself. This showed confidence, which was admittedly already there, and Tesla raised far more than the $830 million originally expected. The money will be used, in part, to pay back the US government for the $465-million Department of Energy loan. The good news prompted an unnamed banker to tell IFR what it looks like on the other side of the skepticism spectrum: "[CEO Elon] Musk has a vision of creating a $50 billion-plus company in five years," adding, "There is a fundamental view of a scenario where Tesla becomes the next GM or Ford." *UPDATE: Musk just Tweeted that Tesla will likely pay back the DOE loan Wednesday.Tesla raises $1 billion as stock climbs; predictions have it at $200 (or $37) *UPDATE originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 21 May 2013 08:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

2013/05/21 13:45 Autoblog

Posted on 05.21.2013 11:00 by Simona

2013/05/21 11:00 Top Speed

Former executives suspected of accounting fraud charges It's been reported that three former executives of Saab have been released, having been arrested earlier today on accounting fraud charges.Swedish prosecutor Olof Sahlgren said that the three former executives are suspected of "aggravated attempts to avoid tax controls" by allegedly falsifying parts of Saab's accounts between 2010 and 2011. The crime carries a maximum sentence of four years in prison.The three executives, named as Jan Ake Jonsson, Kristina Geers and Karl G Lindström allegedly worked for Saab while it was under the ownership of Spyker. The Dutch car maker bought Saab from General Motors.Hong Kong-owned company National Electric Vehicle Sweden subsequently bought the car maker after it filed for bankruptcy in December 2011, and has on-going plans to make electric cars under the Saab brand.

2013/05/21 10:17 Autocar RSS Feed

Hybrid version of third-gen Lexus IS has predictable strengths, but it窶冱 too devoted to calmness and efficiency to really enjoy driving The car that completes the gradual hybridisation of the Lexus range. The new IS executive saloon becomes the final piece of the jigsaw. There now isn窶冲 a model from the Japanese luxury brand that doesn窶冲 come with at least the option of petrol-electric power. The firm窶冱 flirtation with diesel is over. A few petrol-only models remain, but they窶决e dwindling in number. And so 窶� fourteen years and three generations into the life of the car that really launched Lexus as a fully-fledged European premium automotive brand - 窶路ybrid Synergy Drive窶� becomes the weapon that Toyota wields for a renewed assault on the BMW 3-series, Audi A4 and Mercedes C-class.It窶冱 a bid that should attract plenty of attention 窶� albeit, says Lexus, perhaps only five thousand UK sales in a full year. Having added 75mm to the overall length of the IS saloon, and taken the usual painstaking approach to redesigning it from top to bottom, Lexus has developed an all-new hybrid powertrain for the IS saloon, which mates a 2.5-litre four-cylinder 178bhp Atkinson cycle petrol engine with a 141bhp electric motor, both feeding the rear wheels.The IS300h窶冱 petrol engine, like all of Toyota and Lexus窶� hybrid motors, runs on the Atkinson combustion cycle for a high expansion ratio and increased efficiency. Fitted with a new fuel injection system with injectors positioned both in the chamber and in the port, it also has exhaust gas recirculation for reduced operating temperature and high thermal efficiency. There are low-friction piston rings fitted, as well as a low-friction timing chain, low-friction valvegear, and an intelligent oil pump. It runs at a very high compression ratio of 13.0:1. Meanwhile, power for the 141bhp, 221lb ft, rear-mounted electric motor comes from a 230-volt, 192-cell Nickel-Metal-Hydride battery pack.It's satisfying to find the IS300h free of many of the compromises we窶况e seen in hybrid saloons before. In entry-level SE trim, it窶冱 hardly any more expensive than a mid-spec 2.0-litre diesel Audi A4. No longer must owners stomach an unpalatable premium for the privilege of occasional zero-emissions running. The performance stats are competitive, too. The boot is all-but as large and usable as any rival窶冱. And then come the numbers to really lure you in: 99g/km of CO2 and 65.7mpg on the combined cycle. The former stands to save a company car driver three figures on his annual tax bill, even compared with an equivalent BMW 320d Efficient Dynamics, via Benefit in Kind liability at just 11 per cent.Yet in spite of the headline-making efficiency it offers, the new IS300h isn窶冲 a martyr to the cause. Apparently. 窶廬t窶冱 a car to change your mind,窶� says Toyota honcho Akio Toyoda - about hybrids and about Lexus.Using new joining techniques and lightweight materials, the company says it窶冱 added significantly to the torsional stiffness of the IS窶� body-in-white without adding to its weight. Stiffer anti-roll bars make the car 20 per cent more roll-resistant at the front axle, while a new multi-link suspension setup has added 15 per cent more grip at the rear. New steering and braking systems are alleged to bring quicker response, smoother control and greater feedback.

2013/05/21 13:54 Autocar RSS Feed

Filed under: Technology One of the largest hurdles facing autonomous vehicles is cost. The technology to implement driverless cars is already here. Google, Audi and other companies have proved over and over again that the tech is viable and at least theoretically safe for public streets, but few people feel comfortable shelling out the $75,000 premium it would take to make your car chauffeur you about. Ionut Budisteanu, a 19-year-old student from Romania, may have found a way to make autonomous driving tech more affordable. Budisteanu won a $75,000 scholarship in the International Science and Engineering Fair for creating a system that uses a cheaper, lower-resolution three-dimensional radar system paired with a webcam in place of the pricey high-definition 3D radar Google uses. As a result, Budisteanu was able to cut costs from $75,000 to $4,000. His system uses artificial intelligence software to identify curbs, lane markings and other small objects on the road with the webcam while the radar system locates people, cars and houses. In his tests, the system performed as intended 47 out of 50 times. He believes he can improve accuracy with a slightly higher definition radar system while still keeping costs low.Student wins Intel science fair with super cheap autonomous car tech originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 21 May 2013 10:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

2013/05/21 15:14 Autoblog

While we’ve seen the BMW 1 Series Active Tourer prototype before, this week we get a sneak peek of the extended-length version parked outside a BMW testing center. The extended prototype is a three-row version of the Active Tourer concept from the 2012 Paris auto show. While the camouflaged prototype appears to share many of [...]

2013/05/21 14:00 Rumor Central

Posted on 05.21.2013 10:00 by Kirby Garlitos

2013/05/21 10:00 Top Speed

The Subaru Forester small SUV beat the Honda CR-V and other rivals in testing by Consumer Reports, which ranked the model as its top pick in that segment.

2013/05/21 14:38 Automotive News Breaking News Feed

Filed under: Audi, India, Luxury By the end of this decade, India is expected to be one of the top three car markets in the world, but automakers are already starting to duke it out for sales. In terms of premium brands, Automotive News says that Audi has jumped out to an early lead for sales in the country due in large part to the recent introduction of the Audi Q3 (shown above). In 2012, Audi's sales increased 43 percent, rising to 9,350 units and outselling BMW (8,686) and Mercedes-Benz (7,015), both of which experienced a drop in sales last year of 9.5 percent and 5.4 percent, respectively. While none of these sales figures are particularly significant on a global scale, the article says that the market for premium cars in India is expected to quadruple by 2020 up to around 120,000 units. AN attributes Audi's lead to its offering of new SUVs while its rivals have been focusing on small hatchbacks.Audi passes BMW as top luxury brand in India originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 21 May 2013 09:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

2013/05/21 14:28 Autoblog

Filed under: EV/Plug-in, Tesla Motors Despite the company's recent string of successes, there's still a lot of skepticism about Tesla out there. Some of the negativity focuses on the lack of recharging infrastructure, some on the company's expensive cars and how it'll be difficult to make a mass-market car. And when it comes to the company's stock price - TSLA is currently at around $90 - the predictions are all over the map. Some say it's still worth shorting (that is, predicting it will drop). Some say it could reach $200 before too long; others warn it will fall to somewhere in the $20-$40 range. "There is a fundamental view of a scenario where Tesla becomes the next GM or Ford." Still, the big news - that is, something that's actually happened, not just bloviations about the future - is that Tesla raised more than a billion dollars in cash last week by increasing the amount of debt and equity it was offering. Instead of selling a total 2.7 million common shares, CEO Elon Musk put up 3.39 million, and bought $100 million himself. This showed confidence, which was admittedly already there, and Tesla raised far more than the $830 million originally expected. The money will be used, in part, to pay back the US government for the $465-million Department of Energy loan. The good news prompted an unnamed banker to tell IFR what it looks like on the other side of the skepticism spectrum: "[CEO Elon] Musk has a vision of creating a $50 billion-plus company in five years," adding, "There is a fundamental view of a scenario where Tesla becomes the next GM or Ford."Tesla raises $1 billion as stock climbs; predictions have it at $200 (or $37) originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 21 May 2013 08:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

2013/05/21 13:45 Autoblog

Posted on 05.21.2013 09:00 by Kirby Garlitos

2013/05/21 09:00 Top Speed

Posted on 05.21.2013 08:00 by Kirby Garlitos

2013/05/21 08:00 Top Speed

Filed under: Aftermarket, Convertible, Performance, Luxury, McLaren A host of carbon fiber parts designed and made in Germany are what turn the McLaren MP4-12C Spider into the Gemballa GT Spider. The 625-horsepower, twin-turbo V8 is untouched, almost everything else is heavily touched. There's the body kit that includes new front and rear bumpers, side skirts, new tailpipes and logos. Swing up the doors and you'll find a reskinned interior in leather and Alcantara in your choice of color, plus color-matched gauges. That will run you 19,980 euro ($25,647 US) including paint and installation, but it can alternatively be shipped internationally if you'd like to have your own people install it. The GForged-one wheels are an inch larger than the standard units, at 20 inches up front and 21 inches in back, but don't change the weight of the car. There are two styles and two finishes available, and shod in Michelin Pilot Super Sport rubber they'll require 7,980 euro ($10,243) of your hard earned. Throw down a little more and you can have the brake calipers painted, too. If this number whispers seductive German nothings in your ear, check out the press release below and the high-res gallery above.Continue reading McLaren 12C Spider worked over by GemballaMcLaren 12C Spider worked over by Gemballa originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 21 May 2013 07:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

2013/05/21 12:59 Autoblog

Three former Saab executives, including former CEO Jan-Aake Jonsson and Chief Financial Officer Karl-Gustav Lindstroem, were arrested by Swedish prosecutors in an accounting-fraud probe.

2013/05/21 12:04 Automotive News Breaking News Feed

Aston Martin CC100 revealed; new Mercedes S-class launched; Porsche 918 Spyder tested; Kia Cee'd buying guide; full Nissan Juke Nismo road test This week's Autocar magazine stars three key cars — the shock new Aston Martin CC10 concept, the new Mercedes S-class and the Porsche 918 Spyder hypercar.The CC100 takes top billing, with our four-page story and interview with chief designer Marek Reichman outlining exactly how it will influence future Aston Martin design. Steve Cropley also reports live on the impact it made at the Nürburgring 24 Hours race.The Mercedes S-class stands out for being the new technical flagship of the Mercedes range; and with the firm's long-standing commitment to drip-feed that technology back down to all the cars it builds, it makes the new car especially relevant. Hilton Holloway reports live from the launch, and outlines all the technology that makes the S-class special.Greg Kable, meanwhile, gets behind the steering wheel of a Porsche 918 Spyder prototype and reports back on why it delivers a sensational driving experience and could even out-punch the more feted LaFerrari and McLaren P1 in terms of its breadth of technical capability.First drive reviews include the new 200mph Bentley Flying Spur, Skoda Superb, Jeep Grand Cherokee, MG 5 and Skoda Octavia 4x4 estate. Long-term test updates include the Mitsubishi Outlander, Jaguar XKR-S, Toyota Auris and VW CC. The Nissan Juke Nismo hot hatch is the subject of our eight-page road test.In our features section Andrew Frankel compares a modern Caterham to a 30-year-old example as he charts the progression of the marque, Mark Tisshaw joins Lamborghini's 50th anniversary tour through Italy and reports back on the colour and sounds generated by 190,000bhp and Steve Cropley meets the man tipped for Ford's top job, Mark Fields.Fresh from his used car special last week, James Ruppert tells you all you need to know about buying a cheap Ford Fiesta from £300 through to a fast and cheap Ford Fiesta from £3000. We also give you the lowdown on buying the best secondhand car £3000 can get you, the Kia Cee'd.Autocar magazine is available through all good newsagents, and available to download from Zinio, Newsstand and the Apple iTunes store.

2013/05/21 11:11 Autocar RSS Feed

Special version of the Mégane Renaultsport celebrates third F1 constructor title A new version of the Renault Mégane Renaultsport has been revealed, called the Red Bull Racing RB8.To celebrate its third constructor's world title in Formula 1, Renault and Red Bull have created the new model to become a flagship for the range.The RB8 comes with a range of additional equipment including Red Bull Racing branding, Recaro seats, R-Link multimedia and a TomTom Live navigation system, Bridgestone Potenza tyres and the latest version of the on-board RS Monitor.Red Bull branding continues inside, with bespoke aluminium kickplates and carpets.An exclusive Twilight Blue finish with Platinum Grey detail will also be available on the hot hatch. The RB8 will use the same 2.0-litre turbocharged 261bhp engine with stop-start as the Mégane Renaultsport 265 Cup.Als with the Cup, the RB8 features stiffer springs, dampers, anti-roll bar, limited-slip differential and grooved discs with Brembo callipers.

2013/05/21 10:47 Autocar RSS Feed

Posted on 05.21.2013 06:20 by Sulthoni , Serafim

2013/05/21 06:20 Top Speed

Former executives arrested on accounting fraud charges It's been reported that three former executives of Saab have been arrested on accounting fraud charges.Swedish prosecutor Olof Sahlgren said that the three former executives are suspected of "aggravated attempts to avoid tax controls" by allegedly falsifying parts of Saab's accounts between 2010 and 2011. The crime carries a maximum sentence of four years in prison.The three executives have not been identified, but allegedly worked for Saab while it was under the ownership of Spyker. The Dutch car maker bought Saab from General Motors.Hong Kong-owned company National Electric Vehicle Sweden subsequently bought the car maker after it filed for bankruptcy in December 2011, and has on-going plans to make electric cars under the Saab brand.

2013/05/21 10:17 Autocar RSS Feed

A host of new Ford models expected as vice president announces focus on manufacturing Ford will launch more than 15 new vehicles in Europe within the next five years, with most of them being powered by British-built engines.That was the pledge made by executive vice president of Ford Stephen Odell to the Future of Manufacturing summit, held at Cranfield University.He also said that engines built by Ford in the UK could potentially power one third of all Fords globally.Speaking at the summit Odell issued a call to create better market conditions that would enable manufacturers to flourish.To help face the challenges of the modern marketplace Ford will invest in new technologies to drive product appeal and seek out better-qualified engineers for its operations.Odell spoke about the skills deficit in the UK and emphasised the importance of a workforce with the right skills and qualifications in the industry. He called on the motor trade to 窶彭o more in the interests of schoolchildren窶� to help encourage more careers in engineering and science.Despite tough economic conditions Odell concluded his speech by saying he was confident that European and UK manufacturing could survive under the right business conditions. Odell continued: 窶弩e expect Europe窶冱 volume car makers, preferably encouraged and aided by Brussels, to follow the hugely successful American example and do what everybody knows needs to be done: to restructure, to cut excess manufacturing capacity and to reinvigorate their product range. And to develop industry-leading technology for the world.窶�

2013/05/21 10:01 Autocar RSS Feed

2013/05/21 09:02 Car news

Hybrid Hydrogen Rapide S racer becomes first to compete in international racing An Aston Martin Rapide S Hybrid has become the first race car to complete emissions-free laps of an international motor race.The car, using a Hybrid Hydrogen system, also became the first car of its kind to compete in an international race during the Nürburgring 24 Hours.Aston Martin CEO Dr Ulrich Bez led the Rapide S driver line-up. He said the target of achieving a complete lap of the 12.8mile Nürburgring course was “very ambitious”.The car was the sole entry within the special E1-XP2 race classification. The Rapide S used was fitted with a hydrogen fuel supply system, tank and proprietary engine management system. Proving the durability of the concept, the system ran faultlessly throughout the race.Fuel refills took just 30 seconds with the hydrogen being stored at 350 bars of pressure.During the event the Aston Martin reached a top speed of around 160mph, running on nothing but pure hydrogen. 

2013/05/21 09:01 Autocar RSS Feed

BMW M models to benefit from Competition Package upgrade, which will provide more power and improved traction BMW has revealed a new option for its M5 and M6 models dubbed the Competition Package.The option, available from July, boosts the output of the V8 engine powering the M5 and M6 by 15bhp to 567bhp. The package also adds chassis modifications, which include extra tuning to the stabiliser bars. The M5, equipped with the Competition Package, is also lowered by around 10mm.BMW窶冱 Active M Differential has also been given its own control unit as part of the Competition Package. In conjunction with the other adaptations the end result is improved traction and enhanced driving precision, says BMW.Aesthetically the Competition Package includes a new 20-inch M wheel design along with a sport exhaust system, featuring twin tailpipes finished in black chrome.Prices for the Competition Package have not yet been revealed.

2013/05/20 09:57 Autocar RSS Feed

More Canadian Elk than African Antelope

2013/05/20 09:00 All Motor Trend Stories RSS

Leaf-based Infiniti will showcase 'neater' induction-based charging technology The launch of a luxury Infiniti electric car based on the Nissan Leaf hinges on a standard process of induction charging being introduced around the world.The new Infiniti will have a completely different exterior and interior from the Nissan hatchback and it will be used to showcase induction technology, which does away with charging cables.“The whole concept of not having to couple up cables to a plug socket, dragging them on the ground and on you as you go, is in keeping with luxury motoring,” said Infiniti boss Andy Palmer.“It is this technology we want to shine a light on, so while there is no world standard on methods, the roll-out will be dependent on region.”Infiniti is currently pushing for car makers to develop induction technology on an open source basis, rather than individually investing in their own systems.

2013/05/21 06:16 Autocar RSS Feed

Posted on 05.21.2013 01:58 by Sulthoni , Serafim

2013/05/21 01:58 Top Speed

Next generation of the popular Land Rover SUV will lose Freelander name The all-new Land Rover Freelander replacement will become a member of an extended Discovery family, according to company sources. The new car, based on a stretched Evoque platform, is expected late next year.The Freelander badge, first seen in 1997, will be dropped. The name was discontinued in the US market in 2006 when the second-generation model was launched. The Freelander and Discovery are known as LR2 and LR4 in the US.Land Rover窶冱 decision to create a family of Discovery models is based on a number of considerations. Perhaps most importantly, Land Rover suffers from a profusion of confusing brands. Although the company is called Land Rover, Range Rover is also its own well established brand. And the company sells three families of vehicles under the Freelander, Discovery and Defender nameplates, which are arguably distinct sub-brands in their own right.At Land Rover窶冱 recent 65th anniversary celebrations, global brand director John Edwards made a point of telling journalists that the company was based on 窶徼hree iconic brands: Range Rover, Discovery and Defender窶�.The three nameplates will lead to three distinct vehicle families, as Autocar revealed last year (News, 7 November). The Range Rover family has already been marked out with the eponymous luxury version as a flagship, stretching down to the highly successful Evoque. The new Range Rover Sport is close to being launched and sources expect a fourth Range Rover model in the medium term. It has already been dubbed 窶櫓voque XL窶� and is designed to fill the gap between the compact Evoque and the Range Rover Sport. It is now clear that the Discovery replacement will be used as a flagship to create a new family of rugged models designed for everyday use and aimed at adventurous families and outdoor enthusiasts. Insiders say today窶冱 Discovery 窶� which combines generous seven-seat space with the ability to carry huge loads 窶� has become an icon in its own right, and the customer satisfaction and brand image it delivers is such that it will be the inspiration for Land Rover窶冱 mainstream range.The new Discovery range will be topped by two flagship models based on the Range Rover窶冱 PLA all-aluminium architecture. They will be joined by two models to replace the Freelander 窶� a seven-seater and a five-seater. Propping up the range 窶� if it is given the green light 窶� will be a compact urban model, not much more than four metres long and based on a shortened Evoque platform. The new Discovery models will be powered by JLR窶冱 new AJ-200 range of four-cylinder engines, including a supercharged petrol unit.Plans for a third brand family, which will replace the ancient Defender line-up, have also recently been shaken up. 

2013/05/21 05:13 Autocar RSS Feed

Tesla Motors may repay its federal Department of Energy loan as early as Wednesday, CEO Elon Musk said in a message on Twitter on Monday.

2013/05/21 03:41 Automotive News Breaking News Feed

Toyota has overtaken BMW as the world's most valuable automotive brand, an annual ranking of the world's top brands shows.

2013/05/21 00:15 Automotive News Breaking News Feed

Filed under: Etc. We're almost ready to record Episode #334 of the Autoblog Podcast. Check out the topics below, add your own to the Q&A and join us live via UStream, as well. Keep reading for our embedded UStream player, and thanks for listening! Discussion Topics for Autoblog Podcast Episode #334 2014 Mercedes Benz S Class BMW 2 Series People (apparently) trust autonomous cars Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #334 goes LIVE at 10PM Eastern!Autoblog Podcast #334 goes LIVE at 10PM Eastern! originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 20 May 2013 21:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

2013/05/21 02:45 Autoblog

Filed under: Motorsports, Truck, Videos, Ford, Specialty, Racing The Silver Lake sand dunes see their fair share of well-built trophy trucks executing impressive jumps. Drivers build insane pieces of machinery for the express purpose of sailing through the air like mad men and women. Mike Higgins is no stranger to the area. His heavily modified Ford trophy truck has gone flying through the sky on more than one occasion, but he recently bit off more than he could chew. After hitting a particularly lofty dune, Higgins went airborne for a ridiculous 180 feet before becoming intimately familiar with the finer points of gravity. While Higgins nailed the jump, his landing fell short of wowing the judges. The impact very nearly broke his truck in two. Despite the mechanical mayhem, the driver walked away without a scratch, proving that occasionally miracles really do happen. You can check out the jump and the subsequent destruction below for yourself. Be warned: there's a fair bit of foul language.Continue reading The big dune jump and the damage doneThe big dune jump and the damage done originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 20 May 2013 19:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

2013/05/21 00:57 Autoblog

Filed under: Etc., GM Universities are right now trotting out Grade-A commencement speakers to motivate this year's graduating class of collegiates to change the world, or at least vacate their parents' property before the age of 30. Some of the most inspiring commencement speeches of all time include the one Steve Jobs gave at Stanford in 2005, and this year's address du jour is one given by the late David Foster Wallace at Kenyon College in 2008 (watch them both below). Automaker executives are often invited to the podium to speak as well. Former General Motors CEO Rick Wagoner spoke in 2011 at Virginia Commonwealth University, and Chrysler CEO Sergio Marchionne just recently addressed graduates at Walsh College. Over the weekend, current GM CEO Dan Akerson took to the podium to inspire students embarking from the Mendoza School of Business at Notre Dame. Did Akerson, who graduated from Annapolis in 1970, motivate the next Jobs, Musk or Gates to lead us all into a bright and promising future? We'll let you read the transcript below and judge for yourself. His message had to do with what constitutes a good leader, those qualities being the ability to define reality by setting priorities, allocating capital and resources to meet those priorities, a willingness to serve and leading by example. Speaking to a room full of business school graduates, Akerson also remarked, "If all you intend to do with this knowledge and influence is see how many points you can score on your personal wealth scorecard... then something is terribly wrong." An interesting, if convenient, revelation from someone whose salary topped $11 million in 2012.Continue reading Graduates! The CEO of GM has some wisdom to shareGraduates! The CEO of GM has some wisdom to share originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 20 May 2013 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

2013/05/21 00:30 Autoblog

Porsche, after a six-month review of advertising agencies, has opted to keep its creative advertising account for the United States parked at Cramer-Krasselt, the incumbent agency that has held the account since 2007.

2013/05/21 00:16 Automotive News Breaking News Feed

B456 Systems, the bankrupt electric-car battery maker formerly called A123 Systems, won court approval of a plan to exit bankruptcy that pays creditors from the proceeds of selling virtually all its assets.

2013/05/20 20:19 Automotive News Breaking News Feed

Posted on 05.20.2013 19:00 by Simona

2013/05/20 19:00 Top Speed

Filed under: Performance, BMW, Toyota Earlier this year, BMW and Toyota confirmed a four-part joint venture mostly focusing on increasing improving vehicle efficiency using fuel cells, lightweight materials and better battery technology. Also tucked into the announcement was a "feasibility study" for a shared platform to underpin a future midsize "sports vehicle." In terms of the latter, it seems that things have stepped up from the feasibility stage to the conceptual stage, as Motor Trend reports we could see a pair of new sports car concepts debut later this year in at the Tokyo Motor Show. There isn't much information about the new program, but the article suggests the sports cars could be all-wheel drive hybrids, with electric motors powering the front wheels and a gas engine powering the rear wheels. While a partnership between Toyota and BMW might not lend itself to a catchy portmanteau like "Toyobaru," here's hoping it will bear fruit that is as exciting as the ones produced by the Toyota/Subaru tie up. BMW-Toyota sports car heading towards Tokyo debut originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 20 May 2013 18:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

2013/05/20 23:44 Autoblog

Filed under: Spy Photos, Sedan, Chevrolet, Specialty When it comes to fleet vehicles, the Chevrolet Impala definitely plays an important role for General Motors, and it looks like GM is hard at work developing the next-gen Impala for bulk-buying businesses. The Motoring Journal recently spotted a handful of Impalas testing in Colorado with minor camouflage, but upon closer inspection, these appear to be test mules for a new compressed natural gas (CNG) model - a powertrain combination far more likely to find favor with fleet buyers than everyday consumers. Aside from the obvious "CNG" stickers affixed to the decklid, these cars also have different exhaust outlets than what we saw on the V6-equipped Impalas during our first drive of the sedan back in March. Images also show under the hood with a different engine cover and plenty of exposed wiring as the CNG system continues testing. There was also an electrical connector poking out of the front fascia, and at least one of the sedans had a receiver-style trailer hitch. During the launch of the 2014 Impala, Chevrolet said that it is looking to flip the current fleet-to-retail from 70:30 to a more profitable and resale-friendly 30:70 ratio, and this new CNG Impala could be a good way to retain some of that 30-percent fleet business. We reached out to GM for word on when a CNG Impala might arrive, and received this response: We do offer a CNG van and a bi-fuel pickup truck, but still studying the demand for CNG powered passenger cars. Infrastructure is a consideration for anyone buying these types of vehicles. Unfortunately, there's nothing to announce today on this front. Our best guess is that it could debut for the 2015 model year, since the ninth-generation model is carrying over for fleet-only sales as the 2014 Impala Limited.Is Chevrolet readying a CNG-powered Impala? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 20 May 2013 18:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

2013/05/20 23:15 Autoblog

Posted on 05.20.2013 18:00 by Kirby Garlitos

2013/05/20 18:00 Top Speed

Filed under: Europe, Government/Legal, Saab The Associated Press reports three former Saab executives have been arrested on charges of accounting fraud. Swedish prosecutor Olof Sahlgren has refused to identify the individuals, but says they're suspected of attempting to evade taxes by falsifying Saab accounts between 2010 and 2011 during the Spyker years. Other reports indicate the parties involved include former General Counsel to Saab Kristina Geers (seen to the left of former CEO Victor Muller, above), a 15-year-veteran of the company - her husband, Eric, was the company's communications director for 9 years as well. Saab filed for bankruptcy in 2011, and was purchased shortly thereafter by National Electric Vehicle Sweden. If convicted, the trio could face up to four years in prison for their crimes under Swedish law.3 former Saab execs charged with tax evasion originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 20 May 2013 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

2013/05/20 22:30 Autoblog

Filed under: Aftermarket, Performance, SUV, Ford, Off-Road Start with a Ford F-150 SVT Raptor as your base vehicle for modification, and chances are high that you'll end up with something pretty cool. Now, have those modifications done by professional lunatics Hennessey Performance, make the project turning the pickup into an ultra-long SUV, and the result stands a real chance of being a total kick in the ass. Let us present the Hennessey VelociRaptor then, in all of its awesomeness. Hennessey has taken care in grafting a "Expedition style" rear cabin onto the Raptor, complete with an optional third row. The pictures we have show a cabin that's up to the fit and finish standards of the original Ford truck, too. The cab added over the bed also makes room for a massive load space out back, accessible via split out-folding doors and long enough for a person to lay down in (see video). Mechanically, the truck-turned-SUV sticks with Ford's stock 6.2-liter V8, rated at 411 horsepower, or can be had with a supercharger and some 600 hp. Hennessey says the stock-motor VelociRaptor will run from 0-60 miles per hour in 7.5 seconds, while the hi-po version takes just 5.9 seconds. The SUV does take some of the off-road ability away from the Raptor, with the company saying it hasn't yet had the opportunity to test its capabilities. On-roading and "moderate off-road duties" are the current prescription. Hennessey will build just 30 copies of the VelociRaptor per year, offered at a starting price of $149,500. If that seems like an absorbent markup over the Raptor's $43,920, well, you're welcome to go out and build your own. Scroll down for a video walk around of the VelociRaptor, and one showing the supercharged version on a dyno.Continue reading Hennessey completes first VelociRaptor SUV conversion [w/video]Hennessey completes first VelociRaptor SUV conversion [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 20 May 2013 16:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

2013/05/20 21:57 Autoblog

Frisbee-throwing fun in a Miata.

2013/05/20 21:15 Rumor Central

Posted on 05.20.2013 17:00 by Simona

2013/05/20 17:00 Top Speed

Posted on 05.20.2013 16:43 by Sulthoni , Serafim

2013/05/20 16:43 Top Speed

Filed under: Etc., Technology, BMW, Mercedes-Benz We're set to record Autoblog Podcast #334 tonight, and you can drop us your questions and comments via our Q&A module below. Subscribe to the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes if you haven't already done so, and if you want to take it all in live, tune in to our UStream (audio only) channel at 10:00 PM Eastern tonight. Discussion Topics for Autoblog Podcast Episode #334 2014 Mercedes Benz S Class BMW 2 Series People (apparently) trust autonomous cars [RSS] Add the Autoblog Podcast feed to your RSS aggregator var vhm_widget_settings = { eventId: 3217278, colorScheme: 'redblack', width: 628, height: 550, sizeClass: 3};Can't see the EventBox? Click Here.Voices Heard MediaSubmit your questions for Autoblog Podcast #334 LIVE! originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 20 May 2013 16:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

2013/05/20 21:46 Autoblog

Filed under: Safety, Videos, Jeep, Off-Road A 20-year-old woman was killed in Edmonton, Canada on Satuday, reports CTV News, in a freak accident resulting from a rollover during a Jeep demonstration. As part of a fundraising enthusiast event called "Jeeps Go Topless," the driver of one Jeep Wrangler drove up and onto the top of the tire of another. CTV reports that the owner of the topmost Jeep then switched the vehicle off, posed for pictures and then dismounted from his vehicle. His movement off of the Jeep apparently caused it to tip over, crushing a woman who was on top of an adjacent vehicle. Edmonton police are currently investigating more fully what caused the parking lot accident to occur. Scroll below to watch the CTV News video report about this tragic incident.Continue reading Freak accident during Jeep demonstration turns fatalFreak accident during Jeep demonstration turns fatal originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 20 May 2013 16:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

2013/05/20 21:28 Autoblog

Chevrolet brought some more attention to its role in "Mad Men" on Twitter after last night's episode.

2013/05/20 21:11 Automotive News Breaking News Feed

Filed under: Sedan, Performance, BMW, Luxury The leaked facelift images and the Competition Package rumors were accurate: These are the 2014 BMW M5 and M6 models, with exactly three nips and four tucks distinguishing them from their outgoing counterparts, as well as an expected track-day overhaul package. The standard M5 boasts 560 horsepower from its 4.4-liter, twin-turbo V8, and the new Competition Package ups that to a preliminary 575 hp, with shifting options remaining the seven-speed dual-clutch transmission or the six-speed manual. Unsurprisingly, the M6 family - including the two-door coupe, convertible and four-door Gran Coupe - get this optional treatment as well. The go-fast packs make a lot more changes around the cars, though. It lowers them by ten millimeters, recalibrates the steering, differential, front bushings, coil springs, dampers and M chassis control system while adding stiffer anti-sway bars and black chrome exhaust tips. All models sit on 20-inch M light alloy wheels and can be specced with carbon ceramic brakes. For the dragsters among you, the result is a 0-62 mph time that drops by 0.1 second in all models but the M6 convertible. Inside, on all 2014 M5 and M6 models, there's a new look to the steering wheel, a touchpad for the iDrive controller, more storage and more chrome trim. Two more paint colors and two more leather hues have been announced, with more Frozen paint finishes on the way as well. We're told prices will be announced closer to the models' August on-sale date. For now you read what BMW has to say about them in the press release below.Continue reading 2014 BMW M5 and M6 add Competition Package bundles, stay close to home otherwise2014 BMW M5 and M6 add Competition Package bundles, stay close to home otherwise originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 20 May 2013 15:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

2013/05/20 20:44 Autoblog

Legacy starts at $21,090, Outback at $24,320.

2013/05/20 20:15 Rumor Central

Posted on 05.20.2013 16:00 by Justin Cupler

2013/05/20 16:00 Top Speed

AutoNation's lead-referral subsidiary today unveiled an online service that lets consumers search dealership Web sites for new and used vehicles based on monthly payments.

2013/05/20 20:09 Automotive News Breaking News Feed

Filed under: Aftermarket, Classics, Coupe, Performance, Videos, Toyota Our friends at XCAR have taken the time to train their lenses on the iconic Toyota Supra. With Toyota finally back into the performance car game, it seems only logical to remember one of the brand's most legendary sports cars. While we're all busy ladling praise onto the Scion FR-S and Subaru BRZ twins, it's important to remember that Toyota used to produce all manner of fun-to-drive machinery. The Supra once sat at the top of that list, its most recent iteration giving buyers the option of a ludicrous forced-induction inline six, gorgeous styling and plenty of presence. Of course, the legend didn't stop once the Supra fell off American order sheets in 1998. Always an aftermarket darling, the Supra has gone on to become a tuner favorite in nearly every corner of grassroots motorsport. From drag racing to road racing and everywhere in between, the Supra is remains a force to be reckoned with nearly 15 years after it last prowled the US auto market. You can catch the tribute from XCAR below.Continue reading Toyota Supra ready for its retrospective video closeupToyota Supra ready for its retrospective video closeup originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 20 May 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

2013/05/20 20:00 Autoblog