McRae Buggy and Tim Coronel are working on the first electric buggy for the 2012 Dakar Rally, and it finally got the chance to test in some real race conditions at the 2011 Spanish Baja, running as the opening car for the Super Special stage. With a base weight of just 1,440 pounds for the McRae 4x2 buggy it's based on, the electric is designed to...
Sunday, July 31, 2011
McRae Electric Dakar Buggy In The Rain: Video
McRae Buggy and Tim Coronel are working on the first electric buggy for the 2012 Dakar Rally, and it finally got the chance to test in some real race conditions at the 2011 Spanish Baja, running as the opening car for the Super Special stage. With a base weight of just 1,440 pounds for the McRae 4x2 buggy it's based on, the electric is designed to...
China?s Car Design Develops a Signature Style
Straight from the award ceremony in Beijing, here's the best of Chinese automotive design.
Source: http://www.wired.com/autopia/2011/07/this-is-chinese-automotive-design/
Is support dwindling for NAT GAS Act? [w/video]
Filed under: Legislation and Policy, Natural Gas, USA
GigaOM interviews T. Boone Pickens - Click above to watch video after the jump
Senior energy executive Karl W. Miller says he strongly supports establishing a comprehensive energy plan for the U.S. However, Miller says government handouts "do not work, never have and never will" and believes that natural gas is no different. Miller claims nobody can "jam natural gas" down consumers' throats by forced consumption, media blitzes and government taxes. Miller is no T. Boone Pickens, that's for sure and he says that opposition to the NAT GAS Act, a bill promoting the use of natural gas vehicles, is rising. Miller says the "failed Pickens Plan" is "dead on arrival in Washington" and claims that numerous Republicans have already and publicly withdrawn their support for the proposed NAT GAS Act (H.R. 1380 - PDF warning).
H.R 1380 has never been taken up by the House Committee on Ways and Means, meaning that an official vote on it could still be years away. However, as we see it, subsidizing natural gas is almost a side issue here. The NAT GAS Act seems to be controversial 'cause it will tack on an estimated $10 billion in debt at a time when the U.S. government's finances are already stretched thin.
For a bit of background information, we've embedded video of an interview GigaOM did with Pickens after the jump prior to the NAT GAS Act's official announcement back in April.
[Source: NEAH]
Continue reading Is support dwindling for NAT GAS Act? [w/video]
Is support dwindling for NAT GAS Act? [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 29 Jul 2011 14:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | CommentsSource: http://green.autoblog.com/2011/07/29/is-support-dwindling-for-nat-gas-act-w-video/
Official: BMW i3 and i8 revealed [UPDATED w/video]
We've just touched down in Frankfurt to get all the details on BMW's new electric cars, but before we get into the nitty-gritty of BMW i, its philosophy and the engineering behind it, here's a brief introduction to the first two models, the i3 and i8. Officially, the two artfully greenhoused cars seen above are 'concepts,' but they're actually anything but. Click through to the jump to read all about them.
UPDATE: Added a few live images, along with the first promo vid. More to come.
[Source: BMW]
Continue reading Official: BMW i3 and i8 revealed [UPDATED w/video]
Official: BMW i3 and i8 revealed [UPDATED w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 29 Jul 2011 09:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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Toyota Prius Coupe Coming in 2014
Toyota is set to release a new seven-seater Prius Plus into UK showrooms next year, but aside the awaited event the manufacturer plans to launch three all new models among them being a stunning coupe, in the next three years, as it intends to develop Prius into a independent brand. This daring plan includes seeing hybrids sold trough specific dealers by 2014.
Which is also the same date for the arrival of the next Prius saloon. Features such blade-like headlamps and distinctive LED running li...
Which is also the same date for the arrival of the next Prius saloon. Features such blade-like headlamps and distinctive LED running li...
Source: http://www.autoevolution.com/news/toyota-prius-coupe-coming-in-2014-37553.html
2012 BMW 6 Series Has Hidden Alter Egos
Following a partnership with Ensemble and Plum Marks, German automaker BMW has just announced the launch of a new short film series titled Alter Egos. The series is created to promote the redesigned BMW 6 Series and reveals the hidden alter egos of personalities such as Donna Karan, Ed Norton, Kevin Bacon, Glenn O'Brien, Tory Burch and David Yurman.
The concept acknowledges that individuals maintain a public persona, in addition to having a private, off hours persona where they indulge in the...
The concept acknowledges that individuals maintain a public persona, in addition to having a private, off hours persona where they indulge in the...
Source: http://www.autoevolution.com/news/2012-bmw-6-series-has-hidden-alter-egos-37515.html
Saturday, July 30, 2011
2012 Fiat 500 Gets Mopar Accessories
Owners of the Fiat 500 and new 500 Cabrio will be able to dress up their cars in quite a number of different ways, 150 different ways in fact, thanks to a number of accessories unveiled today by Chrysler’s official aftermarket division Mopar. The pint-sized Fiat is one of the most accessorized vehicles in Europe and the Italian automaker...
Lux Research ranks LG Chem tops in lithium-ion battery industry
Filed under: EV/Plug-in, Hybrid
Chevrolet Volt battery pack - Click above for high-res image gallery
In its latest report, Lux Research ranks lithium-ion battery manufacturers and makers of ultracapacitors on its Lux Innovation Grid, a proprietary framework that supposedly assesses the relative performance of companies, The report, titled "Using Partnerships to Stay Afloat in the Electric Vehicle Storm," claims that lithium-ion battery manufacturer, LG Chem, leads the industry and that Maxwell Technologies heads up the ultracapacitor field.
Lux Research assigns scores for each company's technical value, business execution and maturity. Based on these scores, analysts plot a firm's relative potential on the Lux Innovation Grid, which consists four quadrants: Dominant, High-Potential, Long-Shot, and Undistinguished. Among the report's highlights:
- LG Chem Power leads the li-ion battery-maker pack. LG Chemical subsidiary LG Chem Power sits atop the grid's Dominant quadrant, with strong technical value, due to its high-energy lithium-manganese-spinel-based cells and strong cycle life at costs that are among the most competitive in the market. Its multitude of supply partnerships with the likes of General Motors, Eaton, and Ford, however, are what justify the company's strong business execution score.
- A123 Systems and Ener1 garner more headlines than momentum. The two land well out of the Dominant quadrant of the Lux Innovation Grid. Motivated by the potential for major automotive supply deals, both were originally building significant manufacturing capacity. But despite a few minor partnerships, neither has scored a major deal that will drive significant revenue.
- Maxwell leads the Dominant quadrant of the Lux Innovation Grid for supercapacitors. Its high score for technical value derives from cost competitiveness and strong device performance, while its high business execution score stems from multiple partnerships.
[Source: Lux Research]
Continue reading Lux Research ranks LG Chem tops in lithium-ion battery industry
Lux Research ranks LG Chem tops in lithium-ion battery industry originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Sat, 30 Jul 2011 12:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | CommentsBMW Introduces i3, i8 Range With Official Video
With its introduction of the concepts for the BMW i3 and i8 this morning, BMW has launched in earnest its attempts to define a new brand, centered around themes that sound a bit like double-speak, but which really boil down to efficient driving with a bit of style. Terms like "sustainability," "personal mobility," "visionary," and "inspiring,"...
Pirelli Extends World Superbike Tire Deal Through 2015
Pirelli has extended its contract to supply the World Superbike and World Supersport classes with tires for another three-year term. The Italian tire manufacturer has been the official tire supplier for the series since World Superbikes went to a single supplier back in 2004, and series organizer Infront Motor Sports has been happy to keep the relationship going, extending the contract until the end of 2015.
The switch to a single supplier was a controversial one at the time, and was one of the reasons for the factories withdrawing their support from the series for a brief period, gradually returning to the series over the past 4 years. But the move has widely been regarded as a successful one, especially given the nature of the Pirellis - much softer and forgiving than the spec Bridgestones, though with significantly shorter tire life - which is widely credited with keeping the racing in the series close and exciting.
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
British Off-Road Company Bowler To Build Road-Going Super-SUV
Many readers may never have heard of Bowler but for those who have they will know that the British firm is an off-road specialist that manufactures racing SUVs based on the Land Rover Defender and Range Rover. The company is now planning an expansion into the world of road-going cars and recently appointed a former Land Rover chief engineer, Steve...
Report: Mitsubishi expects to profit on sales of plug-in vehicles in 2 years
Filed under: EV/Plug-in, Mitsubishi, Japan, USA
How much money can you make selling a $20,000 electric car? Mitsubishi Motors thinks you can make plenty and, according to Japan's Nikkei business daily, expects its plug-in vehicles to turn a profit in two years. In the U.S., the company's i EV will cost $27,990 (or just $20,490 after the federal tax incentive is factored in). A company like Mitsubishi obviously looks at profit on a global basis, so we hope our lede wasn't too deceptive.
In any case, Mitsubishi's executive vice-president, Hiizu Ichikawa, reportedly told the Nikkei that the Japanese automaker expects to surpass its break-even point of 70,000 units sold annually by the fiscal year ending in March 2014. At that time, Mitsubishi's plug-ins will begin to contribute to the automaker's annual earnings.
Mitsubishi projects that sales of "green vehicles" will hit 25,000 units by the end of 2011, but with the addition of a plug-in hybrid version of its Outlander Sport in 2013, Mitsubishi is getting ready for annual sales of its plug-ins to steadily climb.
[Source: Automotive News - sub. req.]
Report: Mitsubishi expects to profit on sales of plug-in vehicles in 2 years originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Sat, 23 Jul 2011 16:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Read | Permalink | Email this | CommentsTRG Goes 1-2 Again
The Racer's Group (TRG) BOWMANVILLE, ONTARIO (July 25, 2011) Moves into GTC Class Lead with Win at Mosport TRG moved into the GTC class lead by scoring its second one-two finish in a row with another owerful and consistent performance...
Source: http://www.motorsportsjournal.com/archives/2011/07/trg_goes_1-2_again.php
Monday, July 25, 2011
Video: Nissan Leaf attempts mountainous Tour de France stage
Filed under: EV/Plug-in, Nissan, Europe/EU
Nissan Leaf at Tour de France - Click above to watch video after the jump
Remember that zany Dutch electric vehicle enthusiast that charged a Nissan Leaf by towing it behind a Toyota Tundra? Well, now he set out on a quest to complete the craziest stunt of all: driving a 68-mile mountain stage of the Tour de France in a Leaf... without recharging.
Yes, the Leaf's official EPA range rating is 73 miles, but that figure doesn't take into account two monstrous mountain climbs that are part of the 68-mile stage, nor does it assume the Leaf will be driven up a slope with an average incline of eight percent for 8.5 miles at famed Tour de France site, Alpe d'Huez.
Regardless, Vincert Elverts and Gaby Zwaan set out to see if the Leaf could complete the 68-mile stage that made Lance Armstrong the legend that he is today. So, how'd they do? You'll have to hit the jump to watch the Leaf drive up the famed Alpe d'Huez to find out. Hat tip to Remco!
[Source: You Tube, Autopia]
Continue reading Video: Nissan Leaf attempts mountainous Tour de France stage
Video: Nissan Leaf attempts mountainous Tour de France stage originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Mon, 25 Jul 2011 18:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | CommentsSource: http://green.autoblog.com/2011/07/25/video-nissan-leaf-attempts-to-complete-tour-de-france-stage/
BMW ActivE Drivers to Use ChargePoint Network in Boston
As the ActiveE electric mobility car is being assembled in BMW's manufacturing plant in Leipzig, the German automaker is busy making sure its clients will have where to charge their cars. The lease-only BMW ActiveE all-electric vehicle will thus profit from the expansion of the ChargePoint Network into the Boston Metro, the company announced today following a partnership with Coulomb Technologies.
According to an official statement from BMW, more than 150 charging stations for EVs are now be...
According to an official statement from BMW, more than 150 charging stations for EVs are now be...
Source: http://www.autoevolution.com/news/bmw-active-drivers-to-use-chargepoint-network-in-boston-37412.html
Classic car buyer reunites man and machine after 46 years
Filed under: Etc.
Gerry Mandel knows what it's like to have loved and lost. We're not referring to his wife, to whom Gerry has been married for 46 years, but to the 1965 Oldsmobile Jetstar 88 convertible the pair drove away from their wedding all those years ago. The moment was documented in a photograph (shown above, right). We don't know much about the car after that, except that decades later, it would wind up in the hands of a young man named Shawn.
The Olds was a dust-covered barn find. Shawn brought it back to life, installing a rebuilt 425-horsepower Delta 88 motor and reviving the paintwork's shine. Shawn was curious about the Olds' history, so he sought out the original owner and eventually wound up on the phone with Mr. Mandel.
Shawn told Gerry he wanted to show him the car. Forty-six years after saying "I do" to his wife, Gerry said "Okay" to Shawn. After being reunited with the Olds, Gerry and his wife even posed for a recreation of their wedding-day photo (shown above left). In the end, everyone walked away with a great story to tell, and new images that will last long after the memories themselves begin to fade.
For more on this Oldsmobile owners' reunion, head over to the forum where the story unfolded.
Classic car buyer reunites man and machine after 46 years originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 24 Jul 2011 18:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | CommentsSource: http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/24/classic-car-buyer-reunites-man-and-machine-after-46-years/
Fuel Efficiency Drives American Airlines? Record Order
American Airlines announced a record-setting order for new aircraft today, and it shows where the airline industry is headed.
The Dallas-based company will buy 460 planes from Airbus and Boeing, with options for another 465. The massive order comes as airlines rush to reduce operating costs by replacing their aging fleets with new, more fuel-efficient aircraft. [...]
The Dallas-based company will buy 460 planes from Airbus and Boeing, with options for another 465. The massive order comes as airlines rush to reduce operating costs by replacing their aging fleets with new, more fuel-efficient aircraft. [...]
Source: http://www.wired.com/autopia/2011/07/fuel-efficiency-drives-american-airlines-record-airplane-order/
Video: Tame Pikes Peak With Rhys and the Monster
The Pikes Peak International Hill Climb is among the most insanely awesome events in all of motorsports. Each summer, some of the best drivers in the world assault 156 curves and brave precipitous drops in a flat-out sprint to the summit at 14,115 feet.
Reaching the top in less than 10 minutes has long been the [...]
Reaching the top in less than 10 minutes has long been the [...]
Source: http://www.wired.com/autopia/2011/07/video-tame-pikes-peak-with-the-monster/
John Hopkins Gets Wildcard Appearance At Brno
John Hopkins continues to sidle up on a full-time MotoGP return, this time with a wildcard ride at Brno in mid-August. The Rizla Suzuki team today announced that the American will join Alvaro Bautista for the Czech Grand Prix at Brno, aboard a second Suzuki GSV-R. Hopkins previously replaced Bautista at Jerez, after the Spaniard broke his femur in the opening round of the series, the American finishing in 10th. There has been talk that Hopkins would be racing as a wildcard for some months now, but the details had to be finalized. That has now happened, and Hopkins, who is second in the British Superbike Championship, will make his first appearance at Brno.
Below is the text of the press release announcing Hopper's wildcard:
Hopkins and Rizla Suzuki re-unite
Publish Date: Thursday, July 21, 2011
John Hopkins will race for the Rizla Suzuki MotoGP team in the Czech Republic round of the MotoGP World Championship at Brno on Sunday 14th August.
Sunday, July 24, 2011
Ford Goes Trough Rough Times With UAW Negotiations
Ford Motor Company is going through rough times given the fact that the company finds itself is in an uncomfortable position when it comes to negotiating with the UAW. Ford is the only American automaker that faces a possible worker strike and can't simply take its union to a third-party arbitration. It's also worth mentioning the fact that Ford doesn't have a ban on strikes and it can't force binding arbitration. This way, UAW advantages its rivals General Motors and Chrysler.
The manufactur...
The manufactur...
Source: http://www.autoevolution.com/news/ford-goes-trough-rough-times-with-uaw-negotiations-37405.html
Video: Tame Pikes Peak With Rhys and the Monster
The Pikes Peak International Hill Climb is among the most insanely awesome events in all of motorsports. Each summer, some of the best drivers in the world assault 156 curves and brave precipitous drops in a flat-out sprint to the summit at 14,115 feet.
Reaching the top in less than 10 minutes has long been the [...]
Reaching the top in less than 10 minutes has long been the [...]
Source: http://www.wired.com/autopia/2011/07/video-tame-pikes-peak-with-the-monster/
Best Porsche third on the grid
PORSCHE American Le Mans Series Round 4 in Mosport/Canada, Qualifying Mosport/Canada Sat, Jul 23, 2011 With the Porsche 911 GT3 RSR fielded by Flying Lizard Motorsports, Joerg Bergmeister (Germany) and Patrick Long (USA) take up round four of the American...
Source: http://www.motorsportsjournal.com/archives/2011/07/best_porsche_third_on_the.php
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Opinion: Stack of potential suitors line up at Ford for Life After Mulally
Filed under: Hirings/Firings/Layoffs, Ford
Who Could Possibly Replace Ford's Golden CEO?
Insiders say the jockeying for Mulally's position has already begun.
There was a time when some folks in Detroit were convinced Lee Iacocca's last name was really an acronym for: I Am Chairman of Chrysler Corp. Always. Indeed, it took a shove from an increasingly frustrated board to finally get Lido to name his successor.If anything, those on the Ford Motor Co. board of directors are putting CEO Alan Mulally in a bear hug, Chairman Bill Ford suggesting he'd keep the chief executive firmly planted in his office at Glass House until he was 80. For his part, the still-boyish former Boeing executive has said on more than one occasion that despite turning 65, he's not rushing to leave as long as he's having "fun." But as his fifth anniversary in Dearborn approaches it is no surprise that there's plenty of speculation about who might eventually replace Mullaly, if not when.
In decades past, Ford was land of the long knives, where power trumped all, and doing away with your rivals was only slightly less bloody than when the Borgias ruled in Rome. Mulally has made much of instilling a sort of "greater-good" mindset and one of the reasons for the maker's recent success has been that the highly political nature has been toned down a number of notches. Nonetheless, insiders say the jockeying for position has already begun.
Paul A. Eisenstein is Publisher of TheDetroitBureau.com, and a 30-year veteran of the automotive beat. His editorials bring his unique perspective and deep understanding of the auto world to Autoblog readers on a regular basis.Continue reading Stack of potential suitors line up at Ford for Life After Mulally
Stack of potential suitors line up at Ford for Life After Mulally originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 22 Jul 2011 17:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | CommentsSource: http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/22/stack-of-potential-suitors-line-up-at-ford-for-life-after-mulall/
Eisenmann Creates Sport Exhaust for 1-Series M Coupe [Video]
It seems that everybody wants a piece of the action when it comes to one of BMW's hottest M products ever, the 1M. We've seen all kinds of custom mods, ranging from the light all they way to the extreme, and now its time for Stuttgart-based exhaust specialist Eisenmann to show what it's got. The company has announced a complete replacement of the BMW baby-M's system, changing of a middle silencer and rear muffler.
We wouldn't have bothered bringing you this package and the interesting little...
We wouldn't have bothered bringing you this package and the interesting little...
Saturday, July 23, 2011
New Teaser of 2013 Infiniti JX Crossover Concept Released
No, we aren't talking about a new generation of Jaguar XJ saloon, but Infiniti's contender to the luxury crossover market. This is the latest piece of the puzzle from the Japanese carmaker and it covers the seven-seater's side. We'd say the C pillar looks a bit like Lexus' SUV, but that last kink at the very top definitely ads spice to the rear end.
The last teasers showed us a headlight, front fascia and the wheel, plus the tail lamp and its side, which are broken up by a wavy belt line, all...
The last teasers showed us a headlight, front fascia and the wheel, plus the tail lamp and its side, which are broken up by a wavy belt line, all...
Ford to Phase Out CD Players In Its Cars
Ford has foreseen the direction it must take in order to stay up to date with the modern day technology. But in some people's point of view the decision seems to be taken a bit sooner than expected. The change that Ford is keen tomake targets the CD players in its models. Ford is looking to phase out CD players in its cars as it moves to digital only in-car entertainment systems.The first step was taken by the Focus which has scrapped the once-popular multi-disc CD changers. Also worth mentioni...
Source: http://www.autoevolution.com/news/ford-to-phase-out-cd-players-in-its-cars-37400.html
Official: Diesel Chevrolet Cruze coming to U.S. in 2013
Filed under: Diesel, Chevrolet
Rumors of a diesel-powered Chevrolet Cruze have been floating around the Intertubes ever since the sedan's launch last year, but now, we have the official word straight from General Motors: A diesel Cruze is definitely coming to the United States. Unfortunately, we won't see the oil-burning Cruze until sometime in 2013, likely as part of the car's mid-cycle refresh.
As of this writing, GM has yet to confirm any powertrain details, though earlier rumors had suggested that a 2.0-liter engine with 147 horsepower and 235 pound-feet of torque could be the powerplant of choice. In Australia, though, under the hood of the Holden Cruze, the 2.0-liter diesel is good for 160 hp and 265 lb-ft.
Since GM is using the new diesel model as a way to "bolster the already fuel-efficient Cruze lineup," we wouldn't be surprised if a less-powerful but more-efficient engine was offered. Currently, the Cruze Eco with a 1.4-liter turbocharged inline-four is good for 138 hp, 148 lb-ft and up to 42 miles per gallon on the highway.
What say you, readers? Could a diesel-powered Cruze hit the lofty 50 mpg mark? Give us your best fuel economy estimates in the comments, and hit the jump for GM's official press release.
Photos Copyright 2011 Zach Bowman / AOL
[Source: GM]
Continue reading Official: Diesel Chevrolet Cruze coming to U.S. in 2013
Official: Diesel Chevrolet Cruze coming to U.S. in 2013 originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 22 Jul 2011 17:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | CommentsSource: http://green.autoblog.com/2011/07/22/diesel-chevrolet-cruze-coming-to-u-s-in-2013/
Fuel Efficiency Drives American Airlines? Record Order
American Airlines announced a record-setting order for new aircraft today, and it shows where the airline industry is headed.
The Dallas-based company will buy 460 planes from Airbus and Boeing, with options for another 465. The massive order comes as airlines rush to reduce operating costs by replacing their aging fleets with new, more fuel-efficient aircraft. [...]
The Dallas-based company will buy 460 planes from Airbus and Boeing, with options for another 465. The massive order comes as airlines rush to reduce operating costs by replacing their aging fleets with new, more fuel-efficient aircraft. [...]
Source: http://www.wired.com/autopia/2011/07/fuel-efficiency-drives-american-airlines-record-airplane-order/
Mercedes-Benz Advance Design Center Opens in Beijing
Daimler's fifth Mercedes-Benz advanced design studio worldwide opened today in Beijing, as China's influence in needs and trends grows stronger and stronger. Joining the other studios being located in Germany, Italy, Japan and the USA, the Beijing one covers an area of almost 1,000 sqm.
The new Beijing-based Advanced Design Center will serve as a seismograph, recording and analyzing stylistic trends and incorporating them into the creative process.
The design team will draw on inspiration ...
The new Beijing-based Advanced Design Center will serve as a seismograph, recording and analyzing stylistic trends and incorporating them into the creative process.
The design team will draw on inspiration ...
Source: http://www.autoevolution.com/news/mercedes-benz-advance-design-center-opens-in-beijing-37371.html
Friday, July 22, 2011
AdSpotting: Prius goes funny... At Last
Filed under: Hybrid, Marketing/Advertising, Videos, Hatchback, Toyota, Humor
Company: Toyota Motor Sales
Brand: Toyota
Medium: TV
Ad Agency: Saatchi and Saatchi
Product: Prius
Campaign:"What Happens After Practice"
What We Like: Going to back when Toyota launched its very amusing campaign for its Sienna "Swagger Wagon" TV ad and Youtube videos, the Japanese automaker has been looking for ways to engage consumers by not taking its very practical models so damn seriously. The Prius is an unabashed market success. It defines the hybrid segment. And it is the market leader in fuel economy. It does everything but run on actual crunchy granola in the gas tank. Prius ads do not need to play up the fact that they are super fuel efficient. Everyone knows. So, as we showed you a few days ago, turning to this approach of having NBA star Steve Nash talk about how driven he is, as if it was a Nike ad, is a creative homerun. His deadpan monologue about how competitive he is, talking about making constant adjustments and improvements to his game, while driving a Prius and finally edging out a grandma for a parking space is a way to stand out from the usual hybrid ad that merely screams the highway fuel economy rating. Gotta love Nash's trash-talk dance at the end too.
What We Don't Like: Tough one here. The agency nailed it.
Strategy: Prius has owned the hybrid market. But it is undeniable that Ford Fusion Hybrid and the Dearborn, MI automaker's coming C-Max all hybrid brand will begin to cut into Prius's perceived leadership. If there is a weakness in the Prius brand at all, it is that it is widely viewed as a car for celery eaters. Honestly, the current Prius is a bit bloodless to drive. Pumping some hemoglobin into it via clever advertising that doesn't take the car so deadly serious seems like a decent idea for a brand that is this mature.
Grade: A
Watch the video after the jump and give it your own grade below.
Continue reading AdSpotting: Prius goes funny... At Last
AdSpotting: Prius goes funny... At Last originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 22 Jul 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | CommentsSource: http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/22/adspotting-prius-goes-funny-at-last/
Report: Gordon Murray's Batmobile crashes during show rehearsal [w/video]
Filed under: Etc., Celebrities, Specialty
Gordon Murray can design a Batmobile, but he can't teach the Dark Knight how to drive it. Murray's latest automobile was created for the new Batman Live show, a stage production that tells the story of how Batman and Robin came to team up. Murray's take on Bruce Wayne's iconic ride plays a major role... during an early live rehearsal, that role included crashing into a Bank of Gotham set piece.
There were no reports of any injuries, and a stand-by Batmobile was ready to fill in. Batman Live will make its way stateside later this year. In the meantime, at least one Batmobile is currently undergoing repairs in the Bat Cave.
Click past the break to see some video of Murray's Batmobile being unveiled.
Continue reading Gordon Murray's Batmobile crashes during show rehearsal [w/video]
Gordon Murray's Batmobile crashes during show rehearsal [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 22 Jul 2011 11:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | CommentsSource: http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/22/gordon-murrays-batmobile-crashes-during-show-rehearsal-w-video/
Ford VP Jim Farley dropped the F-bomb on General Motors
Earlier this week, we have discussed about the rivalry between Hyundai and Kia, which seemed to be a little bit out of place when concerning two sister companies. It seems that phenomenon is spreading towards U.S. manufacturers Ford and G.M. A new book about the Detroit auto industry rebuilding itself is showing that old rivalries are still alive and kicking behind closed doors.
We're going to beat on them, and it's going to be fun, F*** GM. I hate them and their company and what they stand ...
We're going to beat on them, and it's going to be fun, F*** GM. I hate them and their company and what they stand ...
Source: http://www.autoevolution.com/news/ford-vp-jim-farley-dropped-the-f-bomb-on-general-motors-37397.html
GMC and Buick Combine Configurating and Facebook Connectivity
Buick and GMC understand the importance of social networking and have set up online shopping experiences that are engaging, letting site visitors build, save and share their configured vehicles, after which they can be shared on Facebook.
After you've decided on all the bells and whistles you want on your car, you can now share it with your friend on Facebook, who can comment and like it.
We recognize that car buyers are not only looking for product information when shopping for their next...
After you've decided on all the bells and whistles you want on your car, you can now share it with your friend on Facebook, who can comment and like it.
We recognize that car buyers are not only looking for product information when shopping for their next...
Report: Nerf gun assault leads to man being run over by car
Filed under: Etc., Government/Legal, Humor
Drive-bys are a little different in Quincy, Massachusetts. According to local news reports, a pair of teens stopped by a Wal-Mart, purchased a set of Nerf guns and commenced driving around their neighborhood shooting at pedestrians. Drive-by Nerfing - sounds like a typical Friday night, right?
All was well until the dynamic duo fired upon a pair of resting construction workers, who gave chase in their own vehicle down a dead-end road. With the teens cornered, the workers approached the vehicle and retrieved one of the guns from inside. That's when the driver decided to make his hasty escape.
The teen cut the wheel, threw the car into reverse and promptly ran over one of the construction workers' legs before driving forward over a 10-foot retaining wall and totaling the vehicle. Police have charged the teen with a litany of charges, including assault and battery, assault and battery by means of a dangerous weapon and driving to endanger.
In this case, the dangerous weapon was the car... not the Nerf gun.
Nerf gun assault leads to man being run over by car originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 21 Jul 2011 17:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | CommentsSource: http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/21/nerf-gun-assault-leads-to-man-being-run-over-by-car/
Thursday, July 21, 2011
Bike Fixtation is a cyclists dream vending machine
Filed under: Etc., On Two Wheels
Bicycles are incredibly efficient transportation tools, right? They're also a blast to ride. Well, they're a blast unless you get a flat tire and realize you've forgotten your repair kit. That's where Bike Fixtation comes in. If you happen to "break down" close to one of these, you'll be all set no matter what time it is.
Bike Fixtation offers self-service kiosks on an extended-hours basis. The vending machines offer tubes, patch kits, use of adjustment tools and even access to a pump to fill up your tires. Each self-service Bike Fixtation kiosk features:
- Universal bike mounting system for on-site repairs
- Aircraft cable tethered bicycle repair tools
- Self-contained tire-inflation system compatible with presta and schrader valves
- Snacks and beverages
[Source: Gizmag, Bike Fixtation]
Bike Fixtation is a cyclists dream vending machine originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 21 Jul 2011 10:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Read | Permalink | Email this | CommentsSource: http://green.autoblog.com/2011/07/21/bike-fixtation-is-a-cyclists-dream-vending-machine/
Update: Maserati Birdcage At Mecum Isn't A Fake, It's A Reconstruction
UPDATE: We were the first on the Web to bring you word that the 1960 Maserati Tipo 61/60 "Birdcage" chassis no. 2459 coming up for auction at the Mecum Monterey Auction to be held during Pebble Beach's classic car week. Today, we received word from Sam Murtaugh at Mecum that the auction description for the car has been updated with more complete...
First Drive: 2012 Dodge Charger SRT8
Filed under: Sedan, Performance, Chrysler, Dodge, First Drives
Meet The Modern Muscle Sedan
"Did you know that it was never supposed to be called a Charger?"
The man posing the question is Ralph Gilles, President and CEO of Chrysler's SRT group. According to Gilles, the modern Charger was styled to have been branded differently, but the suits wanted a sporty full-size four-door. The design team delivered what was asked and the marketers went ahead and applied the name. Much to the chagrin of many a Mopar fanboy on the planet.
Thankfully, our time with the the affable Mr. Gilles wasn't spent pondering the last generation LX's branding issues. Or refinement issues. Or interior gaffes. Instead, Chrysler rounded up its newest factory-fettled performance superstars in Southern California so we could get some quality time with the latest generation of SRT machines, including the 2012 Dodge Charger SRT8.
This updated model provides a welcome change compared to its predecessor. Some may still feel that the last-gen Charger may not have deserved to wear the badge, but Chrysler's latest is clearly closer to its B-Body brethren. To find out just how close, we strapped in and ran down some of California's finest roads on our way out to Willow Springs for some track time.
Continue reading 2012 Dodge Charger SRT8
2012 Dodge Charger SRT8 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 21 Jul 2011 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | CommentsSource: http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/21/2012-dodge-charger-srt8-first-drive-review/
History Of The BMW 3.0 CSi: Video
The BMW CS coupe range, known internally as the E9, was a luxurious two-door built for BMW by Karmann during the late 1960s and early ‘70s. It was developed from the BMW 2000 CS coupe of the time, which was enlarged to hold the automaker’s classic M30 straight-six engine, and in its original 2800 CS trim developed 170 horsepower from a...
1957 Ferrari 250 TR prototype expected to break records at Gooding's Pebble Beach auction
Filed under: Classics, Convertible, Auctions, Ferrari, Specialty, Racing
The last several years have seen classic Ferraris sell at auction for record-breaking prices including a 1961 Ferrari California Spyder that sold for over $10 million in 2008 and a 1957 Ferrari 250 TR that fetched more than $12 million in 2009. While those numbers seem astounding, they could be surpassed next month with auction house Gooding & Company offering up one of the most significant Ferrari race cars of all time, the 1957 250 TR prototype.
One of just 22 pontoon-fendered 250 TR race cars, the prototype has an extensive, although somewhat unsuccessful, racing history, with no less than three appearances at the 24 Hours of Le Mans as well as showings at Sebring, the Nurburgring and at the Targa Florio. The car also has an impressive show history, attending the Pebble Beach Concours four times (winning its class twice), and regularly garnering accolades at events like the Cavallino Classic and the Rodeo Drive Concours. It has also appeared several times at the Monterey Historics, most recently in 2008 where it narrowly avoided an accident after spinning at the corkscrew.
The car's current owner and caretaker, just the second in a span of more than forty years, recently restored the 250 TR prototype back to its 1958 Le Mans configuration, installing the original engine, correcting bodywork and applying its 1958 racing livery.
Gooding fully expects this special Ferrari to break the overall sales record for a car sold at auction, and we wouldn't be surprised if they achieved the feat. We'll bring you the news come August 21st, along with the rest of our live coverage from Monterey next month. Until then, check out our gallery of the 1957 Ferrari 250 TR prototype or read more about the car and the auction in the press release after the jump.
1957 Ferrari 250 TR prototype expected to break records at Gooding's Pebble Beach auction originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 20 Jul 2011 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | CommentsSource: http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/20/1957-ferrari-250-tr-prototype-expected-to-break-records-at-goodi/
Behold the One Car Bugatti Fears
By Bill Caswell, Jalopnik
CHICHESETER, West Sussex, England — Everyone had to deal with a playground bully, the kid twice your size who repeated first grade just so he could be bigger and stronger than everyone else. In the automotive world, that bully’s name is Bugatti, and I saw him back down from a fight with [...]
CHICHESETER, West Sussex, England — Everyone had to deal with a playground bully, the kid twice your size who repeated first grade just so he could be bigger and stronger than everyone else. In the automotive world, that bully’s name is Bugatti, and I saw him back down from a fight with [...]
Source: http://www.wired.com/autopia/2011/07/hennessey-venom-gt-2/
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
Ross Rankine Scores Podium Finish at Kil-Kare Raceway
Nine Racing Ross Rankine Brownsburg, Indiana (July 18, 2011) Ross Rankine continues to run strong in the USAC Midwest Ford Focus Midget Series as he claimed a third-place finish at Kil-Kare- Raceway in Xenia, Ohio, on Friday night, July 15....
Source: http://www.motorsportsjournal.com/archives/2011/07/ross_rankine_scores_podiu.php
Next Generation VW Golf GTI to Get Power Boost
The Volkswagen Golf GTI is a natural born hot hatch but as expected the time has come for the next generation VW to get an power upgrade. The next generation GTi is tipped to feature a mild increase in peak power using a carryover version of today's 2.0 liter turbocharged engine.
The power boost will make the next generation GTI to put out 220hp. The figure was achieved by tweaks to the EA888 engine which is the unit used in today's Volkswagen Golf GTI, including a new valve lift system devel...
The power boost will make the next generation GTI to put out 220hp. The figure was achieved by tweaks to the EA888 engine which is the unit used in today's Volkswagen Golf GTI, including a new valve lift system devel...
Source: http://www.autoevolution.com/news/next-generation-vw-gti-to-get-a-power-boost-37311.html
Porsche 911 GT1 Goes on Sale for $1.7 Million
If it comes to Porsche, there are few words that can describe the carmaker's offering, one of them might be amazing. But only one model can look as if it has just arrived from the race track, and that is the Porsche 911 GT1 Strassenversion (street version).In case you are wondering this 911 GT1 is the road-going version of the Porsche 911 GT1 race-car, which was built as part of a homolgation process that required a handful of such models to be built, more specifically 25 units.
Also, the 911...
Also, the 911...
Source: http://www.autoevolution.com/news/porsche-911-gt1-goes-on-sale-for-17-million-37322.html
Official: Big Daddy Audi A8 L W12 priced from $133,500*
Filed under: Car Buying, Audi
The paint is still drying on the 2011 Audi A8, but the Four-Ring automaker is already ready to roll out its 2012 lineup. A8 fans can now say hello a familiar variant of the flagship sedan which was missing upon launch of the launch of its redesign. The 2012 Audi A8 L will now be offered with a W12 engine under its hood and a $133,500 starting price on the window sticker. For that, you get a dozen cylinders giving 500 horsepower and 463 pound-feet of torque - enough to launch Audi's Big Daddy to 60 mph in a scant 4.4 seconds.
Any other items of note for the 2012 model year? Yes, we're glad you asked.
The sporty 2012 Audi TT-RS can be yours if you have $56,850 to spare. The redesigned 2012 A6 sedan starts at $41,700 for the front-wheel-drive 2.0T and $49,900 for the 3.0T with Quattro all-wheel-drive. Finally, the Audi R8 GT, if you haven't already heard, will run you $196,800. Still no word on when the Spyder derivative will arrive to add a $200,000 car to Audi's lineup.
*Prices do not include taxes or destination and handling.
Continue reading Big Daddy Audi A8 L W12 priced from $133,500*
Big Daddy Audi A8 L W12 priced from $133,500* originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 20 Jul 2011 10:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | CommentsSource: http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/20/big-daddy-audi-a8-l-w12-priced-from-133-500/
Alfa Romeo US Market Return Pushed Back to Mid-2013
The launch of the Alfa Romeo brand on US shores is harder to predict than total global reserves. The big problem here is that the company used to be known for making affordable sportscars with plenty of spice and not a lot of power. Bringing their current offering of FWD sedans priced to compete with BMW won't work, so the brand needs to reinvent itself.
To this end, Marchionne needs to pump Fiat's resources into Alfa, but they are stretched at the moment. Alfa's US return has thus been pushe...
To this end, Marchionne needs to pump Fiat's resources into Alfa, but they are stretched at the moment. Alfa's US return has thus been pushe...
Source: http://www.autoevolution.com/news/alfa-romeo-us-market-return-pushed-back-to-mid-2013-37292.html
Porsche Revives the Passion
All photos and video: Porsche
Source: http://www.wired.com/autopia/2011/07/porsche-revives-the-passion/
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
Opinion: What if it turns out there's plenty of oil? [w/video]
Filed under: Plants/Manufacturing, Videos, Autoline on Autoblog
As the relative price of gasoline drops, people are not motivated to buy small, fuel efficient cars.
All the top executives in the auto industry tell me that oil supplies will only get tighter this decade. They predict that fuel prices will do nothing but go up. And they say customers will be clamoring for small, fuel-efficient cars. Or electric ones. But what if it turns out they're wrong?After all, over the last century the price of a gallon of gasoline in the United States, on an inflation-adjusted basis, has always come down. Always. Data from the Energy Information Administration shows that since 1919 the price of gasoline has spiked during war time or global turmoil, but it has always come down after that. This is a key reason why Corporate Average Fuel Economy regulations have not worked. As the relative price of gasoline drops over time, people are not motivated to buy small, fuel efficient cars.
A decade ago, the Peak Oil theory attracted a lot of adherents. It postulated that global oil production would peak in 2006, and that the following shortage would send oil prices skyrocketing. Sure enough, in 2008 a barrel of oil shot to $150. It looked like the Peak Oil theory was coming true. But less than 12 months later it dropped to under $40 a barrel. And though the price is now closer to $100 you don't hear as much talk about Peak Oil anymore. Here's why.
John McElroy is host of the TV program "Autoline Detroit" and daily web video "Autoline Daily". Every week he brings his unique insights as a Detroit insider to Autoblog readers.Continue reading What if it turns out there's plenty of oil? [w/video]
What if it turns out there's plenty of oil? [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 19 Jul 2011 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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GM Investing $328 Million in Flint Plant to Build Next-gen Full-sized Pickups
General Motors has recently announced that it will invest $328 million in its Flint, Michigan assembly plant to produce its next-generation GMC and Chevrolet full-size pickups. Those trucks are currently manufactured in Silao, Mexico, and were built in Canada before. However, the Flint Assembly Plant already builds the heavy-duty versions of the Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra so it's perfectly suited for the job.
This investment will allow us to continue building award-winning full-size p...
This investment will allow us to continue building award-winning full-size p...
Fiat 500 Wins ADI Golden Compass Award
Fiat's little 500 has scooped up the coveted "Compasso d'Oro ADI" (ADI Golden Compass), Europe's oldest and most prestigious design award. An international panel, chaired by Arturo Dell'Acqua Bellavitis and made up of industry experts, selected the Fiat 500 and presented the trophy to Roberto Giolito, Fiat director of design, who attended the awards ceremony yesterday held in Rome at the Pelanda Museo Macro del Testaccio.
With the 5-star EuroNCAP and 40 awards it has won internation...
With the 5-star EuroNCAP and 40 awards it has won internation...
Source: http://www.autoevolution.com/news/fiat-500-wins-adi-golden-compass-award-37272.html
Londoners Bought the Most Eco-friendly Cars in the UK
Londoners come 1st when it comes to buying eco-friendly cars in the U.K., a fact was revealed by Ecovelocity, the organizers of the Dynamic Festival of Green Motoring planned for September 8-11th at Battersea Power station.The figures state that Londoners are the greenest motorists in Britain because they buy the most cars with emissions below 100g/km.
On top of the eco-buyers list sits London with 28% of the cars registered so far this year. The list goes on with the SW regions including Cl...
On top of the eco-buyers list sits London with 28% of the cars registered so far this year. The list goes on with the SW regions including Cl...
Source: http://www.autoevolution.com/news/londoners-bought-the-most-eco-friendly-cars-in-the-uk-37268.html
Ferrari 458 Spider Hard Top Details: Report
Talk surrounding the open-top version of Ferrari's new 458 Italia has long hinted at a folding hardtop solution, unlike the cloth top of its predecessor, the F430 Spider. We've even seen spy shots of the folding hardtop in testing on an F430 mule as far back as 2008. Since then, the presence of a hardtop has been a continued point of interest, and...
Nicky Hayden and Valentino Rossi talk about their 8th and 9th positions at Sachsenring
Clearly today’s race for Nicky Hayden and Valentino Rossi didn’t end up like the photo above, because Alvaro Bautista stuck it to the two Ducatisti, taking the seventh spot after an[...]
Monday, July 18, 2011
Podium finish in France brings Belgian Audi Club WRT Team closer to the top!
Belgian Audi Club Team WRT European FIA GT3 - Round 4 Paul Ricard (FR) Sun, Jul 17, 2011 It was a very positive week-end in the South of France for the Belgian Audi Club Team WRT, as Gr�gory Franchi and...
Source: http://www.motorsportsjournal.com/archives/2011/07/podium_finish_in_france_b.php
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