| Please add updates@feedmyinbox.com to your address book to make sure you receive these messages in the future. | |
| RESCUING A GM BRAND: Penske close to buying GM's Saturn division
June 4, 2009 at 10:23 pm
|
|   Detroit business lion Roger Penske, who led the city's Super Bowl preparations and downtown cleanup program and revived Grand Prix racing on Belle Isle -- all while running the nation's No. 2 auto retailer -- is on the verge of rescuing General Motors Corp.'s embattled Saturn brand. GM is close to selling its Saturn division to Penske in a deal that could keep the brand alive and allow a new manufacturer to provide vehicles to the dealer network, people briefed on the matter said Thursday.  When it comes to dealership closings, there is a big divide between what General Motors, Chrysler and President Obama's auto task force want and what dealers and Congress want.  Hummer HX Concept - Click above for a high-res image gallery Now that General Motors has all but officially offloaded the HUMMER brand to Chinese machinery and equipment manufacturer Sichuan Tengzhong Heavy Industrial Machinery Company Ltd.  General Motors appears to have dodged a bullet that could have crippled its ability to develop the fuel-efficient and profitable vehicles its recovery plan promises to bring American buyers.  BEIJING -- Hummer owners are an unusual breed, but a little-known Chinese company's surprise purchase of the U.S. maker of gas-guzzling, military-style SUVs is audacious, even by their standards.
|
| Mitsubishi's Too-Cute EV Rolls Out This Year
June 4, 2009 at 10:15 pm
|
|   It's official: Mitsubishi's adorable i-MiEV electric car hits the streets of Japan this year, and the automaker says the Lilliputian runabout is "the pioneer that will open the door to the next 100 years of our automobile society." That's a tall order for a small car, especially one with a price tag approaching $50,000. But Mitsubishi firmly believes the i-MiEV will help usher in the era of electric cars. It hails the i-MiEV as "the ultimate eco-car,  Mitsubishi i MiEV - click above for high-res image gallery Mitsubishi launched series production of its iMiEV electric car today at its Okayama, Japan factory. Mitsubishi...  You knew that something like this was coming sooner or later: at least one of Magna's clients have found the supplier's majority stake in Opel to be a conflict of interest.  Chris Duffey - East Bay Express The California Air Resources Board has modified a proposed rule that would have likely put most plug-in hybrid conversion shops in the state out of business.
|
| Reader Spy: 2010 Suzuki Kizashi caught in Colorado
June 4, 2009 at 8:24 pm
|
|   2010 Suzuki Kizashi - Click either image for a high-res gallery Spy shots of the upcoming Suzuki Kizashi are becoming rather common as the mid-size sedan gets ready to launch later this year, but what we've yet to see – what we've needed to see – is a shot of what's inside. Thanks to Autoblog reader Curtis Lewis, we finally have our first glimpse of the Kizashi's interior, and we've got to say, it's looking good.  Ettore Bugatti's own 1936 Bugatti Type 57C – Click above for a high-res image gallery The concept of an "ordinary Bugatti" doesn't exist, all the more so when you're talking about the ultra-desirable Type 57.  Auto Union D-Type Silver Arrow – Click above for a high-res image gallery The history of the notorious Silver Arrow racers parallels that of the nation which bore its birth.  Lamborghini Reventón – Click above for a high-res image gallery If you've been waiting for Lamborghini to replace the aging Murcielago and were disappointed by recent reports that its successor may not arrive until 2012...  2009 Infiniti G37 Convertible - Click above for a high-res image gallery As our First Drive revealed, Infiniti's first folding tin-top is a decent performer and markedly more attractive in appearance than its Germanic competition.
|
| Daily U-Turn: What you missed on 6.4.09
June 4, 2009 at 8:20 pm
|
|  Hands-On: Rolls-Royce Ghost is 100% Roller... so far
Is the all-new Rolls-Royce Ghost a Baby Roller or a glorified 7 Series? We take an in-depth look at the new 'entry-level' model from Rolls-Royce to see what's what. We're impressed, but until we drive it, the jury is still out.  Forza Motorsport 3 – Click above for new high-res image gallery Autoblog visited the official unveiling of Forza Motorsport 3, Microsoft's latest racing title for the XBox, at the E3 expo.  Audi TT RS Coupe and Roadster - Click above for a high-res gallery Audi has released a plethora of new beautiful photographs of the Audi TT RS Coupe and Roadster, and...  Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost – Click above for high-res image gallery What is a brand? Beyond the badge, what separates a Louis Vuitton bag from a purse that might be just as good...  Hamann Rolls-Royce Phantom – Click above for a high-res image gallery With seemingly ever luxury automaker under the sun going after BMW's coveted balance between sport and luxury...
|
| Mitsubishi launches production of the iMiEV
June 4, 2009 at 8:12 pm
|
|  Mitsubishi i MiEV - click above for high-res image gallery Mitsubishi launched series production of its iMiEV electric car today at its Okayama, Japan factory. Mitsubishi is the first of the major automakers to kick off full scale production of a new EV and will be followed by most other automakers over the next two years. The automaker plans to build about 2,000 units through the remainder of this fiscal year and then crank that up to 5,000 next year. The first cars are going to corporate fleet customers but retail sales are expected to start later in the year. It's official: Mitsubishi's adorable i-MiEV electric car hits the streets of Japan this year, and the automaker says the Lilliputian runabout is "the pioneer that will open the door to the next 100 years of our automobile society. Ettore Bugatti's own 1936 Bugatti Type 57C – Click above for a high-res image gallery The concept of an "ordinary Bugatti" doesn't exist, all the more so when you're talking about the ultra-desirable Type 57. Auto Union D-Type Silver Arrow – Click above for a high-res image gallery The history of the notorious Silver Arrow racers parallels that of the nation which bore its birth. Lamborghini Reventón – Click above for a high-res image gallery If you've been waiting for Lamborghini to replace the aging Murcielago and were disappointed by recent reports that its successor may not arrive until 2012...
|
| VIDEO: Jeremy Piven's The Goods tackles ever-fertile comedy ground of used car sales
June 4, 2009 at 8:10 pm
|
|  The Goods trailer: Click above to watch the preview after the jump The used car salesman is typically thought of as a bit of a slime ball. You know the guy. Hair greased to the side, cheesy sport coat, promises you anything to get you to buy. But if you get down to brass tacks, a real used car guy can flat out ball on the sales floor. The creators of Talladega Nights and Step Brothers want to take the used car salesman to a new level of awesomeness with a new movie called The Goods, and Jeremy Piven is playing the Don Ready, the lead character. Sounds like a match made in heaven.  May was another dismal month for car sales pretty much everywhere, including Volkswagen. There was however one bright spot at VW: sales of its Jetta TDI. Overall, sales of the Jetta were up 27.  After a long hiatus, American consumers appear ready to return to auto showrooms to buy new cars, experts say, although not in the large numbers seen in past years. A rise in new U.  After filing for bankruptcy protection, General Motors is pushing a new ad campaign promising it will emerge from its financial troubles leaner and stronger. Is this...  He started as an understudy and has become an icon, and with his last taping of the Tonight Show hours away, Jay Leno has secured another car honor. The Concorso Italiano...
|
| 110-MPG Wonder Engine Quits the X Prize
June 4, 2009 at 8:04 pm
|
|  An Ohio entrepreneur who claims to have developed a 400-horsepower wonder engine that gets 110 mpg has withdrawn from the Progressive X Prize competition just days after opening a factory to produce the super motor. Doug Pelmear, president and CEO of HP2G, said it is "no longer in the company's best interests to compete in or be associated with the Progressive Automotive X Prize competition." Audi TT RS Coupe and Roadster - Click above for a high-res gallery Audi has released a plethora of new beautiful photographs of the Audi TT RS Coupe and Roadster, and...  AC Schnitzer Mini Cooper S convertible – Click above for a high-res image gallery From the base model all the way up to the JCW, there's no shortage of trim levels available for the Mini and its various body-styles.  Assuming that everyone reading this knows about the GM bankruptcy, let's go straight to the quote highlight reel. During a recent interview with NPR, GM Chief Financial...  Piaggio MP3 Hybrid - Click above for a high-res image gallery As expected, Piaggio has apparently begun production of the three-wheeled MP3 Hybrid. Currently, the bike is only available in Europe with a price of under €10...
|
| Ettore's Bugatti: Founder's Own Type 57C up for auction at Pebble Beach
June 4, 2009 at 8:01 pm
|
| Ettore Bugatti's own 1936 Bugatti Type 57C – Click above for a high-res image gallery The concept of an "ordinary Bugatti" doesn't exist, all the more so when you're talking about the ultra-desirable Type 57. But even by Bugatti standards, this example is... well, exemplary. What you're looking at here is Ettore Bugatti's own Bugatti, a unique example built in 1936 for the founder's birthday, and managed to stay in pristine condition ever since. Auto Union D-Type Silver Arrow – Click above for a high-res image gallery The history of the notorious Silver Arrow racers parallels that of the nation which bore its birth. Lamborghini Reventón – Click above for a high-res image gallery If you've been waiting for Lamborghini to replace the aging Murcielago and were disappointed by recent reports that its successor may not arrive until 2012... 2009 Infiniti G37 Convertible - Click above for a high-res image gallery As our First Drive revealed, Infiniti's first folding tin-top is a decent performer and markedly more attractive in appearance than its Germanic competition.  2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid - Click above for a high-res image gallery When we saw the Ford announcement that the new Fusion Hybrid is "the most patented car in history," we wondered how it stacked up against a truly revolutionary car like the EV1.
|
| Obama responds to governors' biofuels concerns
June 4, 2009 at 7:58 pm
|
|  Presidents and biofuels. Seems to be a theme today. Back in February, the Governors' Biofuels Coalition sent a letter to President Obama asking for a stronger ethanol position, specifically asking that the national blend be increased to E13 and that the government consider promoting the sustainability of biofuel feedstocks and making sure there is a market for the finished product (it's something they've called for before).  Driving around mid-Michigan over the weekend, I couldn't help but notice how much gas prices have jumped in the last few weeks. According to AAA, the national average price for a gallon of regular gas has jumped up 50 cents in the past month to $2.
|
| Lamborghini Cuts CO2, Keeps 0-60
June 4, 2009 at 7:50 pm
|
|  Some car companies are well-known for their low-emissions offerings: the Tesla Roadster, the Chevy Volt and Toyota Prius come to mind. Get ready to add Lamborghini to the list, as they've promised to make their new cars greener, cleaner and even meaner than ever before. The folks in Sant'Agata Bolognese announced that they're investing nearly $50 million to working to cut emissions across the model range by 35 percent before 2015. In addition to greening their fleet, Lamborghini Reventón – Click above for a high-res image gallery If you've been waiting for Lamborghini to replace the aging Murcielago and were disappointed by recent reports that its successor may not arrive until 2012...  Tesla Motors faces a Herculean task getting the sweet Model S sedan built by 2011, but that isn't keeping CEO Elon Musk from looking ahead to several projects that include the next-gen Roadster.  The Chevrolet Volt program could be compared to a World War II bomber flying through heavy flak over occupied Europe. Somehow, against the odds, it keeps flying. And despite declaring bankruptcy on Monday...  Jon Lauckner is GM's VP of product development and along with Bob Lutz, co-inventor of the Chevy Volt. "We're closing one chapter and opening a new chapter," he said.
|
| Penske close to buying GM's Saturn brand
June 4, 2009 at 7:35 pm
|
| Detroit business lion Roger Penske, who led the city's Super Bowl preparations, downtown cleanup program and revived Grand Prix racing on Belle Isle ? all while running the nation's No. 2 auto retailer ? is on the verge of rescuing General Motors' embattled Saturn brand. GM is close to selling its Saturn division to Penske in a deal that could keep the brand alive and allow a new manufacturer access to the dealer network, people briefed on the matter said today. An official announcement could occur within 24 hours. Detroit business lion Roger Penske, who led the city's Super Bowl preparations and downtown cleanup program and revived Grand Prix racing on Belle Isle -- all while running the nation's No. When it comes to dealership closings, there is a big divide between what General Motors, Chrysler and President Obama's auto task force want and what dealers and Congress want. Hummer HX Concept - Click above for a high-res image gallery Now that General Motors has all but officially offloaded the HUMMER brand to Chinese machinery and equipment manufacturer Sichuan Tengzhong Heavy Industrial Machinery Company Ltd. General Motors appears to have dodged a bullet that could have crippled its ability to develop the fuel-efficient and profitable vehicles its recovery plan promises to bring American buyers.
|
| Auto Union D-Type Silver Arrow back on the auction block at Bonhams in August
June 4, 2009 at 7:00 pm
|
| Auto Union D-Type Silver Arrow – Click above for a high-res image gallery The history of the notorious Silver Arrow racers parallels that of the nation which bore its birth. In the years leading up to WWII, Adolf Hitler was bent on world conquest – not just on the battlefield, but on the race track as well. Convinced that motor racing was the perfect venue to exhibit what he viewed as Germany's superiority, Mitsubishi i MiEV - click above for high-res image gallery Mitsubishi launched series production of its iMiEV electric car today at its Okayama, Japan factory. Mitsubishi... Ettore Bugatti's own 1936 Bugatti Type 57C – Click above for a high-res image gallery The concept of an "ordinary Bugatti" doesn't exist, all the more so when you're talking about the ultra-desirable Type 57. Lamborghini Reventón – Click above for a high-res image gallery If you've been waiting for Lamborghini to replace the aging Murcielago and were disappointed by recent reports that its successor may not arrive until 2012... Forza Motorsport 3 – Click above for new high-res image gallery Autoblog visited the official unveiling of Forza Motorsport 3, Microsoft's latest racing title for the XBox, at the E3 expo.
|
| Boris Johnson to welcome the 2009 Eco-Rally from Brighton to London
June 4, 2009 at 6:59 pm
|
|  The traditional London to Brighton Veteran Car Run marks the abolition of the 'Red Flag Act' that required motorized vehicles to be preceded by a man on foot. However, now there's an Eco-rally taking place next Monday the 8th that will follow the same route but in reverse and to bring alternative fuel technologies to the British capital. Starting from Madeira Drive in Brighton, It's official: Mitsubishi's adorable i-MiEV electric car hits the streets of Japan this year, and the automaker says the Lilliputian runabout is "the pioneer that will open the door to the next 100 years of our automobile society. Detroit business lion Roger Penske, who led the city's Super Bowl preparations and downtown cleanup program and revived Grand Prix racing on Belle Isle -- all while running the nation's No. An Ohio entrepreneur who claims to have developed a 400-horsepower wonder engine that gets 110 mpg has withdrawn from the Progressive X Prize competition just days after opening a factory to produce the super motor.
|
| REPORT: Ford sells off former PAG headquarters in Irvine
June 4, 2009 at 6:55 pm
|
|  Not long ago, Ford's Premier Auto Group was filling the halls of a big office building in Irvine California. In recent years, Aston Martin, Land Rover and Jaguar were sent packing, and Lincoln dragged itself back to Detroit, leaving the halls lonely for sole survivor Volvo, which is also headed back to Rockleigh, New Jersey. It's official: Mitsubishi's adorable i-MiEV electric car hits the streets of Japan this year, and the automaker says the Lilliputian runabout is "the pioneer that will open the door to the next 100 years of our automobile society. Detroit business lion Roger Penske, who led the city's Super Bowl preparations and downtown cleanup program and revived Grand Prix racing on Belle Isle -- all while running the nation's No. An Ohio entrepreneur who claims to have developed a 400-horsepower wonder engine that gets 110 mpg has withdrawn from the Progressive X Prize competition just days after opening a factory to produce the super motor.
|
| GM expects to return to profitability by 2011
June 4, 2009 at 6:06 pm
|
| WASHINGTON ? General Motors Corp. expects to return to annual profits in 2011, and estimates stock in the new company it will launch from bankruptcy will be worth $38 billion to $48 billion. According to financial estimates filed today as part of its bankruptcy case, the new GM will count on a rebound in U.S. vehicle sales to about 16 million a year by 2012 to pull it back into profitability, pumping up its output from 3.8 million vehicles worldwide this year to 6 million by 2014. When it comes to dealership closings, there is a big divide between what General Motors, Chrysler and President Obama's auto task force want and what dealers and Congress want.  With a little help from Fiat and the U.S. government, among others, it seems Chrysler and GM are both on a pathway to solvency — or are they? On June 1, President Barack...  WASHINGTON ? Fighting to survive, top executives from General Motors and Chrysler today defended their decisions to slash dealerships around the country, calling the moves unavoidable despite the pain to many loyal dealers and customers.  General Motors' bankruptcy filing is only a few days old, but the struggling automaker already seems to be pressing ahead full steam. The General has already announced 14 plant closings...
|
| REPORT: VW takes issue with Magna/Opel tie-up
June 4, 2009 at 5:51 pm
|
| You knew that something like this was coming sooner or later: at least one of Magna's clients have found the supplier's majority stake in Opel to be a conflict of interest. As it turns out, Volkswagen was the first automaker to cry foul. Magna is a major supplier for VW and its brands, while Opel is a big-time competitor. Spokesman Michael Brendel says the company going to "monitor this development very closely." We're guessing that translates roughly to "'if Opel receives any preferential treatment over VW whatsoever, heads will roll."  We've finally uncovered the name of VW's as-of-last-we-heard-unnamed-or-maybe-something-more-robustly-named pickup truck. It'll be called the Volkswagen Amarok. The name comes from the Inuit Eskimo word for "wolf. General Motors appears to have dodged a bullet that could have crippled its ability to develop the fuel-efficient and profitable vehicles its recovery plan promises to bring American buyers.  GM Europe has itself been rescued through a German government brokered deal selling portions of the company to Canadian auto parts maker Magna and Russian lender Sberbank.  DETROIT - With an almost certain bankruptcy filing days away, General Motors is beginning its reinvention, planning to retool one factory to make its smallest vehicles ever in the U.
|
| Bill Clinton: don't destroy the forest to make ethanol
June 4, 2009 at 5:49 pm
|
| 
During the big Ethanol Summit 2009 down in Brazil this week, former President Clinton gave a bit of advice to that country's ethanol industry: don't destroy so much forest land just to make biofuel... It's official: Mitsubishi's adorable i-MiEV electric car hits the streets of Japan this year, and the automaker says the Lilliputian runabout is "the pioneer that will open the door to the next 100 years of our automobile society. Detroit business lion Roger Penske, who led the city's Super Bowl preparations and downtown cleanup program and revived Grand Prix racing on Belle Isle -- all while running the nation's No. An Ohio entrepreneur who claims to have developed a 400-horsepower wonder engine that gets 110 mpg has withdrawn from the Progressive X Prize competition just days after opening a factory to produce the super motor.
|
| Looking up? Hybrid market share up in May
June 4, 2009 at 5:42 pm
|
| 
The fact that auto sales are down from the levels recorded a year ago is no surprise. Mitsubishi i MiEV - click above for high-res image gallery Mitsubishi launched series production of its iMiEV electric car today at its Okayama, Japan factory. Mitsubishi...  Auto sales in 2009 have been a real stinker, but companies are starting to feel a bit more bullish about the immediate future of the industry. Earlier this week, Ford announced that it was bumping Q3 production by 10%... BEIJING -- Hummer owners are an unusual breed, but a little-known Chinese company's surprise purchase of the U.S. maker of gas-guzzling, military-style SUVs is audacious, even by their standards.  We weren't expecting this, especially from General Motors, which was forced to sell cars and trucks last month amidst rumors of impending bankruptcy (something that came to fruition as soon as the month was over).
|
| Top Gear Preview: Clarkson and company destroy Mitsubishi Evo on army base
June 4, 2009 at 5:34 pm
|
|  Jeremy Clarkson kills a Mitsubishi Evo – Click above for high-res gallery The automotive enthusiast world is waiting with bated breath to see what the chaps at Top Gear have up their clever sleeves for season 13. So far, we know that TG will be cutting back on the fancy a bit, as the wildly popular British car show has been handed a substantial budget cut. It's official: Mitsubishi's adorable i-MiEV electric car hits the streets of Japan this year, and the automaker says the Lilliputian runabout is "the pioneer that will open the door to the next 100 years of our automobile society. Detroit business lion Roger Penske, who led the city's Super Bowl preparations and downtown cleanup program and revived Grand Prix racing on Belle Isle -- all while running the nation's No. An Ohio entrepreneur who claims to have developed a 400-horsepower wonder engine that gets 110 mpg has withdrawn from the Progressive X Prize competition just days after opening a factory to produce the super motor.
|
| Rumormill: Lamborghini working on short-wheelbase V12 Jota, Reventón Roadster
June 4, 2009 at 5:27 pm
|
| Lamborghini Reventón – Click above for a high-res image gallery If you've been waiting for Lamborghini to replace the aging Murcielago and were disappointed by recent reports that its successor may not arrive until 2012, the mavens over at Autogespot may have some good news for you. While the Murci may stay on for another few years, word has it that Lamborghini is working on another model, apparently to run in parallel. The reports suggest that the new model, Mitsubishi i MiEV - click above for high-res image gallery Mitsubishi launched series production of its iMiEV electric car today at its Okayama, Japan factory. Mitsubishi... Ettore Bugatti's own 1936 Bugatti Type 57C – Click above for a high-res image gallery The concept of an "ordinary Bugatti" doesn't exist, all the more so when you're talking about the ultra-desirable Type 57. Some car companies are well-known for their low-emissions offerings: the Tesla Roadster, the Chevy Volt and Toyota Prius come to mind. Get ready to add Lamborghini to the list... Auto Union D-Type Silver Arrow – Click above for a high-res image gallery The history of the notorious Silver Arrow racers parallels that of the nation which bore its birth.
|
| VW BlueSport roadster is ready to leap from concept to showroom:
June 4, 2009 at 5:18 pm
|
|   The old red Volkswagen Golf GTI screams to a halt. Before we know what's happening, its young driver leaps out and is firing questions in a broad southern German accent. We're pretty sure it went something like this: "How much? When? What engine?" It was all we could do to stop the guy from jumping into the empty seat next to us. Forza Motorsport 3 – Click above for new high-res image gallery Autoblog visited the official unveiling of Forza Motorsport 3, Microsoft's latest racing title for the XBox, at the E3 expo.  Jaguar's owner Ratan Tata has made it clear that he wants to expand Jag's sportscar offerings beyond the scope of the current XK, and this is what the British rumormill has cooked.  Tesla Roadster - Click above for a high-res image gallery From the first to the 100th and now to the 500th, the story of Tesla Motors and their initial offering - the Roadster - has been pretty heavily documented.  Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport – Click above for a high-res image gallery The marque's faithful (read: the obscenely wealthy) have been waiting a long time for a convertible Bugatti.
|
| 2009 Infiniti G37 Convertible starting at $43,850
June 4, 2009 at 4:24 pm
|
| 2009 Infiniti G37 Convertible - Click above for a high-res image gallery As our First Drive revealed, Infiniti's first folding tin-top is a decent performer and markedly more attractive in appearance than its Germanic competition. And now that pricing has been revealed, the 2009 Infiniti G37 Convertible just got a bit more desirable. The seven-speed, automatic-equipped model starts at $43,850, 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid - Click above for a high-res image gallery When we saw the Ford announcement that the new Fusion Hybrid is "the most patented car in history," we wondered how it stacked up against a truly revolutionary car like the EV1. AC Schnitzer Mini Cooper S convertible – Click above for a high-res image gallery From the base model all the way up to the JCW, there's no shortage of trim levels available for the Mini and its various body-styles.  Chevy Cruze gets the Bumblebee treatment – Click above for a high-res image gallery The idea behind building a stunning performance car like the new Chevy Camaro... Hummer HX Concept - Click above for a high-res image gallery Now that General Motors has all but officially offloaded the HUMMER brand to Chinese machinery and equipment manufacturer Sichuan Tengzhong Heavy Industrial Machinery Company Ltd.
|
| CARB backs off of plug-in conversion shop
June 4, 2009 at 4:13 pm
|
| Chris Duffey - East Bay Express The California Air Resources Board has modified a proposed rule that would have likely put most plug-in hybrid conversion shops in the state out of business. The rule would have required conversion shops to conduct the same emissions tests done by automaker to verify that conversions did not increase noxious emissions. The tests can cost upwards of $200,000 and smaller shops like 3Prong Power simply couldn't afford it.  Tata's dirt-cheap Nano microcar, which is a huge hit in India even before it hits the streets, just might be headed to America. The Indian automaker says it would have...  The 2009 Infiniti G37 convertible will carry a $44,715 sticker price, including shipping charges, when it rolls into showrooms later this month, the luxury automaker said Thursday. Chevy Cruze gets the Bumblebee treatment – Click above for a high-res image gallery The idea behind building a stunning performance car like the new Chevy Camaro...  General Motor is attempting to cushion the blow of dealers losing their franchises as part of the automaker's bid to pare down its network. According to Automotive News...
|
| Sneak Peek: Forza Motorsport 3
June 4, 2009 at 3:57 pm
|
| Forza Motorsport 3 – Click above for new high-res image gallery Autoblog visited the official unveiling of Forza Motorsport 3, Microsoft's latest racing title for the XBox, at the E3 expo. With graphics playing on numerous flat screens that, to borrow the phrase, moved the game on, and with the backing of an Audi partnership and a gleaming red R8 V10 on a plinth among the crowd, everyone involved was bullish enough on FM3 to make an actual bull think "Better watch out for those guys. 2009 Infiniti G37 Convertible - Click above for a high-res image gallery As our First Drive revealed, Infiniti's first folding tin-top is a decent performer and markedly more attractive in appearance than its Germanic competition. 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid - Click above for a high-res image gallery When we saw the Ford announcement that the new Fusion Hybrid is "the most patented car in history," we wondered how it stacked up against a truly revolutionary car like the EV1. AC Schnitzer Mini Cooper S convertible – Click above for a high-res image gallery From the base model all the way up to the JCW, there's no shortage of trim levels available for the Mini and its various body-styles. Chevy Cruze gets the Bumblebee treatment – Click above for a high-res image gallery The idea behind building a stunning performance car like the new Chevy Camaro...
|
| Tata May Bring the Nano to America
June 4, 2009 at 3:44 pm
|
| Tata's dirt-cheap Nano microcar, which is a huge hit in India even before it hits the streets, just might be headed to America. The Indian automaker says it would have a lot of work to do prepping the car for the American market - little challenges like meeting U.S. emissions and crash worthiness regulations come to mind - but could have the job done by 2011. Chris Duffey - East Bay Express The California Air Resources Board has modified a proposed rule that would have likely put most plug-in hybrid conversion shops in the state out of business. The 2009 Infiniti G37 convertible will carry a $44,715 sticker price, including shipping charges, when it rolls into showrooms later this month, the luxury automaker said Thursday. Chevy Cruze gets the Bumblebee treatment – Click above for a high-res image gallery The idea behind building a stunning performance car like the new Chevy Camaro... General Motor is attempting to cushion the blow of dealers losing their franchises as part of the automaker's bid to pare down its network. According to Automotive News...
|
| Infiniti G37 convertible carries $44,715 sticker price:
June 4, 2009 at 3:40 pm
|
| The 2009 Infiniti G37 convertible will carry a $44,715 sticker price, including shipping charges, when it rolls into showrooms later this month, the luxury automaker said Thursday. Would you prefer that your G37 convertible have the six-speed manual transmission instead of the seven-speed auto? Add another $50 to the sticker's bottom line. Chris Duffey - East Bay Express The California Air Resources Board has modified a proposed rule that would have likely put most plug-in hybrid conversion shops in the state out of business. 2009 Infiniti G37 Convertible - Click above for a high-res image gallery As our First Drive revealed, Infiniti's first folding tin-top is a decent performer and markedly more attractive in appearance than its Germanic competition. Tata's dirt-cheap Nano microcar, which is a huge hit in India even before it hits the streets, just might be headed to America. The Indian automaker says it would have... Audi TT RS Coupe and Roadster - Click above for a high-res gallery Audi has released a plethora of new beautiful photographs of the Audi TT RS Coupe and Roadster, and...
|
| G.M. Is Giving Up Its Private Jets
June 4, 2009 at 3:02 pm
|
|  General Motors will eliminate its fleet of private jets, as the company moves through Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection - a move that's sure to please Capitol Hill. Last November, chief executives from the three Detroit automakers were reprimanded by members of Congress for flying private jets to Washington to ask for emergency government loans. When it comes to dealership closings, there is a big divide between what General Motors, Chrysler and President Obama's auto task force want and what dealers and Congress want. Hummer HX Concept - Click above for a high-res image gallery Now that General Motors has all but officially offloaded the HUMMER brand to Chinese machinery and equipment manufacturer Sichuan Tengzhong Heavy Industrial Machinery Company Ltd. General Motors appears to have dodged a bullet that could have crippled its ability to develop the fuel-efficient and profitable vehicles its recovery plan promises to bring American buyers. BEIJING -- Hummer owners are an unusual breed, but a little-known Chinese company's surprise purchase of the U.S. maker of gas-guzzling, military-style SUVs is audacious, even by their standards.
|
| Pics aplenty: 2010 Audi TT RS is ready for its closeup
June 4, 2009 at 3:00 pm
|
| Audi TT RS Coupe and Roadster - Click above for a high-res gallery Audi has released a plethora of new beautiful photographs of the Audi TT RS Coupe and Roadster, and it just makes us want them to change their mind about bringing the car to the United States even more. After all, what's not to love? The 2.5-liter turbocharged five-cylinder puts out 340 horsepower and 332 lb-ft torque running through a six-speed manual transmission and Audi's quattro all-wheel drive system. The 2009 Infiniti G37 convertible will carry a $44,715 sticker price, including shipping charges, when it rolls into showrooms later this month, the luxury automaker said Thursday.  With the EURO-V emissions regulations coming into full effect this year, Mercedes Benz has updated the engine lineup for its big Sprinter vans. The Sprinter uses a range...  Bewerp Savage Revale Roadyacht GTS - Click above for a high-res image gallery The last time we checked, the name "road yacht" wasn't exactly complimentary, but bespoke...  Following last week's announcement of the production version of the new BMW 5-series Gran Turismo comes a new more fuel efficient engine variant. For the last two years, BMW has offered a twin turbocharged 3.
|
| 2009 VW Jetta Sportwagen TDI, Part Two
June 4, 2009 at 3:00 pm
|
|   Yesterday we reveled in the frugal performance of the VW Jetta Sportwagen TDI's diesel engine, but bemoaned the awful DSG gearbox. Join us today as we examine the Jetta's abilities in detail. Exterior Design: *** Utterly innocuous, but in a handsome way. The Jetta SportWagen's not going to offend anyone, but it's not going to set hearts alight either. Like a black jellybean with chrome accents, it's lucky that those accents actually look nice and restrained. The Jetta could fit into any crowd from a college campus to fancy valet parking. The old red Volkswagen Golf GTI screams to a halt. Before we know what's happening, its young driver leaps out and is firing questions in a broad southern German accent. Chris Duffey - East Bay Express The California Air Resources Board has modified a proposed rule that would have likely put most plug-in hybrid conversion shops in the state out of business. Forza Motorsport 3 – Click above for new high-res image gallery Autoblog visited the official unveiling of Forza Motorsport 3, Microsoft's latest racing title for the XBox, at the E3 expo. 2009 Infiniti G37 Convertible - Click above for a high-res image gallery As our First Drive revealed, Infiniti's first folding tin-top is a decent performer and markedly more attractive in appearance than its Germanic competition.
|
| Zero to 120 MPH in Seven Seconds, Silently
June 4, 2009 at 2:58 pm
|
|  We've got just one thing to say about the motorcycle MotoCzysz is running in the TTxGP green grand prix: Damn. Make that hot damn. Wes Siler over at Hell for Leather got his Alpinestar-clad hands on a leaked photo, which we've shamelessly lifted (thanks, Wes!), of the MotoCzysz E1pc and some specs. It has 10 batteries and three motors, and according to Siler's source it'll accelerate from zero to 120 mph in seven or eight seconds.  In 2007, Royal Mail issued a set of stamps commemorating Britain’s Formula One greats. With six slots for eight world champions and Sir Stirling Moss, the stage was set for a philatelic battle royale.  Famous motorcycle builder and all-around celebrity Jesse James plans to attempt a new world record top speed run for a hydrogen-powered vehicle later this month on a dry lake bed somewhere in California.  The guys at Mission Motors have been working like mad preparing for the upcoming TTxGP green motorcycle grand prix and they sent us some video of their sexy bike on the track. The Chevrolet Volt program could be compared to a World War II bomber flying through heavy flak over occupied Europe. Somehow, against the odds, it keeps flying. And despite declaring bankruptcy on Monday...
|
| Tesla Motors wins Globe Sustainability Innovation Award in Sweden
June 4, 2009 at 2:55 pm
|
|  Tesla Roadster - Click above for a high-res image gallery
At a ceremony in Stockholm, Sweden the other day, Michael van der Sande, the Marketing VP at Tesla Motors, accepted the Sustainability Innovation Award given out by the Globe Forum... Tesla Roadster - Click above for a high-res image gallery From the first to the 100th and now to the 500th, the story of Tesla Motors and their initial offering - the Roadster - has been pretty heavily documented. Tesla Motors faces a Herculean task getting the sweet Model S sedan built by 2011, but that isn't keeping CEO Elon Musk from looking ahead to several projects that include the next-gen Roadster.  General Motors said it has entered into a memorandum of understanding with a buyer for the Hummer brand. You can find more details of the deal in Nick Bunkley's report here, but G.  Aprilia Scarabeo 200 - Click above for a high-res image gallery Considering a scooter but not sure if you're cut out for the two-wheeled lifestyle? Piaggio believes it may have the answer to this common problem with its latest promotion...  Tesla Roadster - Click above for a high-res image gallery With all of the attention garnered these days at Tesla's Model S sedan, it may be easy to forget all about the fledgling EV-maker's current product, the Roadster.
|
| Toyota's zero-emission CARB complaince could cost $1 billion
June 4, 2009 at 2:54 pm
|
|  Toyota Highlander FCV - Click above for a high-res image gallery
Forza Motorsport 3 – Click above for new high-res image gallery Autoblog visited the official unveiling of Forza Motorsport 3, Microsoft's latest racing title for the XBox, at the E3 expo. 2009 Infiniti G37 Convertible - Click above for a high-res image gallery As our First Drive revealed, Infiniti's first folding tin-top is a decent performer and markedly more attractive in appearance than its Germanic competition. 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid - Click above for a high-res image gallery When we saw the Ford announcement that the new Fusion Hybrid is "the most patented car in history," we wondered how it stacked up against a truly revolutionary car like the EV1. AC Schnitzer Mini Cooper S convertible – Click above for a high-res image gallery From the base model all the way up to the JCW, there's no shortage of trim levels available for the Mini and its various body-styles.
|
| REPORT: Chrysler's sale to Fiat put on hold temporarily to hear debtor objections
June 4, 2009 at 2:45 pm
|
|  The state of Indiana has a big problem with Chrysler's bankruptcy proceedings. Indiana state treasurer Richard Mourdock explained that "Indiana retirees and Indiana taxpayers have suffered losses because of unprecedented and illegal acts of the federal government." The home of the Indianapolis 500 has $42 million worth of retirement funds invested in the Pentastar; less than 1% of the $6.9 billion in secured debt owed by Chrysler. Indiana's appeal of the Fiat sale officially puts any deal with the Italian automaker on hold until a resolution has been made. When it comes to dealership closings, there is a big divide between what General Motors, Chrysler and President Obama's auto task force want and what dealers and Congress want. With a little help from Fiat and the U.S. government, among others, it seems Chrysler and GM are both on a pathway to solvency — or are they? On June 1, President Barack...  Hallelujah! The first child born of the Fiat-Chrysler marriage arrives in just 18 months when the Italian automaker brings the awesome 500 to the United States. Better yet...  Chrysler's bullet-train ride through bankruptcy defied experts and frustrated dealers, suppliers and creditors, but demonstrated that a powerful government and an impatient buyer can achieve radical change quickly.
|
| Chrysler dealers question cuts
June 4, 2009 at 1:53 pm
|
| NEW YORK -- A parade of Chrysler dealers slated to lose their franchises took the stand today in the automaker's bankruptcy protection case, many of them touting their sales and service records over the years and questioning how they were chosen for termination. Just under 20 dealers were sworn in at the beginning of what was expected to be a lengthy day of testimony from both dealers and Chrysler LLC executives. Arguments on the motion are scheduled for Tuesday. Chris Duffey - East Bay Express The California Air Resources Board has modified a proposed rule that would have likely put most plug-in hybrid conversion shops in the state out of business. Tata's dirt-cheap Nano microcar, which is a huge hit in India even before it hits the streets, just might be headed to America. The Indian automaker says it would have... The 2009 Infiniti G37 convertible will carry a $44,715 sticker price, including shipping charges, when it rolls into showrooms later this month, the luxury automaker said Thursday. Chevy Cruze gets the Bumblebee treatment – Click above for a high-res image gallery The idea behind building a stunning performance car like the new Chevy Camaro...
|
| Little Schnitzer: German tuner tweaks the Mini Cabrio
June 4, 2009 at 1:51 pm
|
| AC Schnitzer Mini Cooper S convertible – Click above for a high-res image gallery From the base model all the way up to the JCW, there's no shortage of trim levels available for the Mini and its various body-styles. But if you're looking for something a little different, BMW tuner par excellence AC Schnitzer has released a full tuning package for the latest R57 Mini Cabrio. Forza Motorsport 3 – Click above for new high-res image gallery Autoblog visited the official unveiling of Forza Motorsport 3, Microsoft's latest racing title for the XBox, at the E3 expo. 2009 Infiniti G37 Convertible - Click above for a high-res image gallery As our First Drive revealed, Infiniti's first folding tin-top is a decent performer and markedly more attractive in appearance than its Germanic competition. 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid - Click above for a high-res image gallery When we saw the Ford announcement that the new Fusion Hybrid is "the most patented car in history," we wondered how it stacked up against a truly revolutionary car like the EV1. Chevy Cruze gets the Bumblebee treatment – Click above for a high-res image gallery The idea behind building a stunning performance car like the new Chevy Camaro...
|
| REPORT: Detroit execs grilled on dealer cuts by Congress, Henderson agrees to cough up closure list
June 4, 2009 at 1:48 pm
|
| When it comes to dealership closings, there is a big divide between what General Motors, Chrysler and President Obama's auto task force want and what dealers and Congress want. The bankrupt Detroit automakers say that closing dealerships will save money, streamline vehicle delivery, improve brand image, and improve the health of remaining retail stores. WASHINGTON ? Fighting to survive, top executives from General Motors and Chrysler today defended their decisions to slash dealerships around the country, calling the moves unavoidable despite the pain to many loyal dealers and customers.  Accusing a cross-town rival of influencing Chrysler to shut down its business so they could acquire the customers, Florida's Monarch Dodge has filed a civil suit against Massey-Yardley Dodge.  Lexus LF-A Nurburgring - Click above for a high-res image gallery Last year's reports about the demise of the Lexus LF-A may have been greatly exaggerated, and according to the fabulists at AutoExpress...  Now that the current version of the Astra is going to be replaced, perhaps it's time to remember the previous generation. This model didn't make it to the States but was quite popular in Europe.
|
| Patent comparison: Ford Fusion hybrid = 119, EV1 = 23
June 4, 2009 at 1:43 pm
|
| 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid - Click above for a high-res image gallery When we saw the Ford announcement that the new Fusion Hybrid is "the most patented car in history," we wondered how it stacked up against a truly revolutionary car like the EV1. Turns out, whatever patents were used to get that initial electric car to market, they weren't as numerous.  Ford tossed down the gauntlet on gee-whiz dashboard gauge clusters with the Smartgauge in the Ford Fusion Hybrid and Mercury Milan Hybrid. Now supplier Yazaki is going one step further with a fully-reconfigurable concept cluster running on Linux.  2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid - Click above for a high-res image gallery More technology than ever before is being added to modern automobiles, and much of this whiz-bang tech has been created to cut down on fuel consumption and reduce emissions.  2010 Ford Mustang GT convertible Hard to beat the performance for the bucks 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata 1953 Buick Woody station wagon Strap on the surfboards and drive to...  Toyota Prius - Click above for a high-res image gallery Toyota Prius fans in the UK have a little something to celebrate today. Prices for the upcoming third-generation...
|
| VIDEO: Codemasters' FUEL features 5,000+ square miles of drivable terrain
June 4, 2009 at 1:29 pm
|
|  Codemasters Fuel – Click above to watch the video Getting tired of driving over the same virtual circuits over and over again? Sure, it's a good way to get to know a track, but if can get tiresome. That's why Codemasters – the game studio behind DiRT, Grid and the upcoming F1 series – is releasing Fuel. The old red Volkswagen Golf GTI screams to a halt. Before we know what's happening, its young driver leaps out and is firing questions in a broad southern German accent. Chris Duffey - East Bay Express The California Air Resources Board has modified a proposed rule that would have likely put most plug-in hybrid conversion shops in the state out of business. Forza Motorsport 3 – Click above for new high-res image gallery Autoblog visited the official unveiling of Forza Motorsport 3, Microsoft's latest racing title for the XBox, at the E3 expo. 2009 Infiniti G37 Convertible - Click above for a high-res image gallery As our First Drive revealed, Infiniti's first folding tin-top is a decent performer and markedly more attractive in appearance than its Germanic competition.
|
| In Soviet Russia, Half-Hour-Old Ferrari Fires You!
June 4, 2009 at 1:00 pm
|
|  This Ferrari 612 Scaglietti was only 30 minutes old when its new Russian owner noticed things were getting a little hot around the collar, resulting in her watching this brand-spanking-new Italian stallion burn to the ground. The Ferrari 612 Scaglietti normally would run you $320k, but in Russian it ran its new owner almost $850k, making this Italian campfire even more gut wrenching.  We talked about the uncommon but still serious cases of fires caused by biodiesel enthusiasts making the biofuel in their back yard just the other day. Even at industrial facilities...  While fuel prices are nothing like they were last summer (but they are climbing), there are still plenty of reasons to want to make your own biodiesel. Homebrew biodieselers are...  A reader posed us an interesting question the other day about air intakes and grilles. Specifically: do electric vehicles need them at all and why do many internal combustion vehicles have such large examples.
|
| Hands-On: Rolls-Royce Ghost is 100% Roller so far
June 4, 2009 at 12:57 pm
|
|  Rolls-Royce Ghost – Click above for high-res image gallery
What is a brand? Beyond the badge, what separates a Louis Vuitton bag from a purse that might be just as good, but made by someone else? We come to that question on the occasion of the Rolls-Royce Ghost which, in some quarters, is being considered a Rolls only in name... Forza Motorsport 3 – Click above for new high-res image gallery Autoblog visited the official unveiling of Forza Motorsport 3, Microsoft's latest racing title for the XBox, at the E3 expo. 2009 Infiniti G37 Convertible - Click above for a high-res image gallery As our First Drive revealed, Infiniti's first folding tin-top is a decent performer and markedly more attractive in appearance than its Germanic competition. 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid - Click above for a high-res image gallery When we saw the Ford announcement that the new Fusion Hybrid is "the most patented car in history," we wondered how it stacked up against a truly revolutionary car like the EV1. AC Schnitzer Mini Cooper S convertible – Click above for a high-res image gallery From the base model all the way up to the JCW, there's no shortage of trim levels available for the Mini and its various body-styles.
|
| GM offering dealers up to $1 million to 'wind-down' retailers?
June 4, 2009 at 10:58 am
|
| General Motor is attempting to cushion the blow of dealers losing their franchises as part of the automaker's bid to pare down its network. According to Automotive News, the bankrupt automaker is offering some dealerships between $100,000 to $1 million to assist in the "wind down" of their businesses. In the case of Pontiac-specific dealers, GM is offering between $10,000 and $200,000. Auto sales in 2009 have been a real stinker, but companies are starting to feel a bit more bullish about the immediate future of the industry. Earlier this week, Ford announced that it was bumping Q3 production by 10%...  Tata Motors' tiny Nano car made headlines with its low price, but most buyers are ordering optioned-up versions, the Indian automaker reports. The Nano has a headline-grabbing base price of just under $2...  With last year's round of bank bailouts, John Stewart's comedic cup overfloweth with material. Now, with General Motors' bankruptcy official, Stewart takes aim at the late, great automaker in the segment "BiGMess. With a little help from Fiat and the U.S. government, among others, it seems Chrysler and GM are both on a pathway to solvency — or are they? On June 1, President Barack...
|
| Vancouver 2009: California Fuel Cell Partnership member describes the long drive
June 4, 2009 at 10:51 am
|
|  Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles arrive at the Vancouver Convention Center - click for a full gallery As the hoopla surrounding the arrival of the hydrogen fuel cell caravan began to die down at the Vancouver Convention Center yesterday, we ran into Roy Kim from the California Fuel Cell Partnership. Kim was along for all 1,700 miles of the whole Road Tour and was ready to go back to a normal schedule. Before could let that happen, though, we asked him about the tour and how the vehicles survived the drive.  Pretty much everyone in the auto industry has drunk the electric Kool-Aid, but some are still betting on hydrogen. Volkswagen is right there with them, and it brought...  Hydrogen cars in Vancouver - click above for a high-res gallery Vancouver is hosting the Hydrogen + Fuel Cells 2009 conference this week, and that give us a chance to learn a bit more about the city's ongoing hydrogen fuel cell vehicle tests.  Morgan LifeCar - Click above for a high-res gallery By far the most interesting title for a presentation here at the Hydrogen + Fuel Cells 2009 conference in Vancouver...  Suzuki Crosscage - Click above for an image gallery It's been a little while since we last heard from Suzuki regarding its planned hydrogen fuel cell motorcycle, but apparently...
|
| REPORT: Independent Hummer sees alt-fuel model within five years, still looking at H4
June 4, 2009 at 10:47 am
|
| Hummer HX Concept - Click above for a high-res image gallery Now that General Motors has all but officially offloaded the HUMMER brand to Chinese machinery and equipment manufacturer Sichuan Tengzhong Heavy Industrial Machinery Company Ltd., the next logical question is where does the brand go from here? Perhaps the best person to answer that question would be Jim Taylor, the man who was put in charge of the brand to get it ready for sale and who will reportedly stay on to lead Hummer under its new ownership.  Last Sunday, New York City sealed off Broadway to traffic at Times Square and Herald Square, from 35th to 33rd Streets. A day later 350 lawn chairs were set out where cars had previously reigned supreme.  K07 - Click above for a high-res image gallery Anybody can start sketching cars in their basement and call themselves a design studio. Of course it helps if you've got... BEIJING -- Hummer owners are an unusual breed, but a little-known Chinese company's surprise purchase of the U.S. maker of gas-guzzling, military-style SUVs is audacious, even by their standards. 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid - Click above for a high-res image gallery More technology than ever before is being added to modern automobiles, and much of this whiz-bang tech has been created to cut down on fuel consumption and reduce emissions.
|
| Judge: Chrysler has good case for franchise cuts
June 4, 2009 at 10:21 am
|
|  NEW YORK - The judge overseeing Chrysler's bankruptcy case said Thursday that the automaker has a good case for the termination of 789 of its dealer franchises as part of its ongoing restructuring. U.S. Judge Arthur Gonzalez said that under Chrysler LLC's plan, those dealers, which represent about 25 percent of the company's dealer base, will remain with "Old Chrysler," a collection of assets that aren't slated to be sold to a group led by Italy's Fiat Group SpA. With a little help from Fiat and the U.S. government, among others, it seems Chrysler and GM are both on a pathway to solvency — or are they? On June 1, President Barack...  General Motors makes more than a few world-class automobiles. As true as that statement may be, that alone wasn't enough to stall the automaker's steady decline –... Chrysler's bullet-train ride through bankruptcy defied experts and frustrated dealers, suppliers and creditors, but demonstrated that a powerful government and an impatient buyer can achieve radical change quickly.  With GM and Chrysler both now in bankruptcy, a relatively healthy Ford stands to benefit, even its its two struggling Detroit rivals gain the advantages of powerful government backing.
|
| Toyota to lease 200 PHEV Priuses in Japan starting in late 2009
June 4, 2009 at 9:50 am
|
|  They won't look like the second-generation Prius plug-in pictured above, but Toyota has announced the first of its non-European leasing programs for its new PHEV (see here). Starting late this year Toyota will start leasing 200 plug-capable Priuses to government and commercial fleets in Japan. A similar program has been mentioned by Toyota executives for the U.S. market in the past and an announcement on that should probably be coming soon.  There's some competition for the Tesla Model S. Santa Monica, Calif.-based Coda Automotive unveiled its first electric car on Wednesday, and it's no golf cart. The Chinese-made...  2010 Toyota Prius – Click above for high-res image gallery Either Toyota intentionally downplayed initial numbers or the sluggish economy is not affecting Prius sales as much as the company feared.  WASHINGTON -- President Barack Obama will announce on Monday the bankruptcy of General Motors Corp., launching a complicated, $59-billion effort to prevent the century-old juggernaut of American manufacturing from collapse.  Click above for a high-res gallery of the 2010 Toyota Prius File this one under slightly sketchy (AFS Trinity style). A Florida Toyota dealer is taking a Prius on what he calls an "epic" 1,100-mile trip to Washington, D.
|
| Top Gear episodes now available on Xbox Live Marketplace
June 4, 2009 at 9:35 am
|
|  Here around Autoblog's virtual offices, there are few things on which we love to spend our down time more than watching Top Gear and playing on our Xbox 360. So it comes as a special bit of parenthetical news that the hit British BBC show has now become available directly on the Xbox Live Marketplace. Season 10, 11 and 12 are now available on the Microsoft content site, with each 570MB episode costing 160 points (equivalent to $2). Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles arrive at the Vancouver Convention Center - click for a full gallery As the hoopla surrounding the arrival of the hydrogen fuel cell caravan began to die down at the Vancouver Convention Center yesterday... General Motor is attempting to cushion the blow of dealers losing their franchises as part of the automaker's bid to pare down its network. According to Automotive News... Hummer HX Concept - Click above for a high-res image gallery Now that General Motors has all but officially offloaded the HUMMER brand to Chinese machinery and equipment manufacturer Sichuan Tengzhong Heavy Industrial Machinery Company Ltd.  Spend just a few minutes driving on congested New York City streets, and you'll immediately see some of the world's worst driving. GMAC's fifth National Drivers Test reveals...
|
| REPORT: Toyota sees U.S. turnaround in sight, plans to boost production
June 4, 2009 at 9:33 am
|
| Auto sales in 2009 have been a real stinker, but companies are starting to feel a bit more bullish about the immediate future of the industry. Earlier this week, Ford announced that it was bumping Q3 production by 10%, and now Toyota is getting more aggressive still by adding 65,000 units to its Q2 quota. The Aishi, Japan-based automaker plans to add production to its most popular models. The Camry, Corolla, Sienna, Tundra, Tacoma and Rav4 are all going to see more action during the summer months. General Motor is attempting to cushion the blow of dealers losing their franchises as part of the automaker's bid to pare down its network. According to Automotive News... Tata Motors' tiny Nano car made headlines with its low price, but most buyers are ordering optioned-up versions, the Indian automaker reports. The Nano has a headline-grabbing base price of just under $2... With last year's round of bank bailouts, John Stewart's comedic cup overfloweth with material. Now, with General Motors' bankruptcy official, Stewart takes aim at the late, great automaker in the segment "BiGMess. With a little help from Fiat and the U.S. government, among others, it seems Chrysler and GM are both on a pathway to solvency — or are they? On June 1, President Barack...
|
| GM CEO: we goofed, now let's move forward
June 4, 2009 at 9:32 am
|
| Assuming that everyone reading this knows about the GM bankruptcy, let's go straight to the quote highlight reel. During a recent interview with NPR, GM Chief Financial Officer Ray Young said the following: We do believe that gasoline prices will increase in the future; we do believe that consumers will demand more fuel-efficient and greener vehicles. From our perspective, we're going to make that commitment, make that investment to allow us to have these products in great quantities in the future.  GM Chief Executive Fritz Henderson said today in a televised address that General Motors has embarked on "a defining moment in the history of General Motors." He called the bankruptcy that GM filed today "a fast-track plan to form a leaner .  Just back in off a plane from LA, we made it to the GM Building here in midtown Manhattan in their world financial headquarters, blogging live from the center of the automotive...  At 6:00 AM EST this morning, it was official: General Motors filed for bankruptcy. The pundits, editorialists, arm-chair quarterbacks and newly-minted auto analysts began having their say late last night.
|
| New York, New Jersey Top List Of Dumbest Driver States
June 4, 2009 at 9:00 am
|
| Spend just a few minutes driving on congested New York City streets, and you'll immediately see some of the world's worst driving. GMAC's fifth National Drivers Test reveals just how horrible — along with news drivers nationwide are getting worse. The study, the fifth annual GMAC Insurance National Drivers Test, found 20.1% of licensed Americans — roughly 41 million drivers — would not pass a 20-question standard DMV written drivers test exam if taken today. Last Sunday, New York City sealed off Broadway to traffic at Times Square and Herald Square, from 35th to 33rd Streets. A day later 350 lawn chairs were set out where cars had previously reigned supreme.  As its stock tumbled to a stunning 75 cents a share, General Motors Corp. tied up several loose ends Friday as it prepares to file for bankruptcy reorganization Monday.  Tezzari Zero - Click above for a high-res image gallery Interested in the chance to purchase the very first Tazzari ZERO sold in America? Good news then, you're free to bid on it on eBay.  John McElroy has returned as the host of this week's Autoline After Hours, and in addition to being joined by the show's two regulars – former PR man Jason Vines...
|
| Times Square Traffic Shutdown Reveals World Without Cars
June 4, 2009 at 8:20 am
|
| Last Sunday, New York City sealed off Broadway to traffic at Times Square and Herald Square, from 35th to 33rd Streets. A day later 350 lawn chairs were set out where cars had previously reigned supreme. Is this the future? After the city sealed off Broadway to traffic at Times Square and at Herald Square, from 35th to 33rd Streets, where it intersects with the Avenue of Americas, that might be a logical question. Especially when on Monday — Memorial Day — the Times Square Alliance, a group that represents local businesses, set out 350 lawn chairs and 26 chaise lounges. Spend just a few minutes driving on congested New York City streets, and you'll immediately see some of the world's worst driving. GMAC's fifth National Drivers Test reveals... They won't look like the second-generation Prius plug-in pictured above, but Toyota has announced the first of its non-European leasing programs for its new PHEV (see here). Assuming that everyone reading this knows about the GM bankruptcy, let's go straight to the quote highlight reel. During a recent interview with NPR, GM Chief Financial... Here around Autoblog's virtual offices, there are few things on which we love to spend our down time more than watching Top Gear and playing on our Xbox 360. So it comes...  Says James Corbett, professor of marine policy at the University of Delaware: "Ship pollution affects the health of communities in coastal and inland regions around the world...
| | | 
| |
No comments:
Post a Comment