Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Report: Bentley fires staff priest before Christmas]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/02/bentley-fires-staff-priest-before-christmas/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/02/bentley-fires-staff-priest-before-christmas/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/02/bentley-fires-staff-priest-before-christmas/#commentsFiled under: , ,



This sounds like a scene out of A Christmas Carol, but it appears to be real. The resident chaplain for Bentley at Crewe was removed from his post - just days before Christmas. Reverend Francis Cooke had visited Crewe once a week for the last decade, but was relieved of his duties when it was feared by management that his presence at the factory might offend a multi-faith workforce.

According to Rev. Cooke, "The reason I have been given is that there are too many people of different faiths to warrant a Christian chaplain." Cooke pointed out that no complaint had ever been brought against him, and that he helps all faiths at the factory - not just Christians.

Bentley issued a statement, addressing its decision, "We have a wide range of faiths and want to take a multi-faith outlook. It would be very difficult to have somebody from each faith."

The Bentley staff did not take this well, and have launched a petition to restore the reverend to his position of the last ten years. According to one Crewe employee, "Everyone is really angry about it as a few of us have been on courses with him." The unnamed employee continued, "To do this before Christmas is shocking." There is no word yet on the progress of the petition, or the hopes of Rev. Cooke's reinstatement at Crewe.

Bentley fires staff priest before Christmas originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Jan 2013 09:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bentleycrewecrewe ukrev cookereverend cookereverend francis cookeWed, 02 Jan 2013 09:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: EV owners in WA to pay extra $100 annual fee]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/30/ev-owners-in-wa-to-pay-extra-100-annual-fee/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/30/ev-owners-in-wa-to-pay-extra-100-annual-fee/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/30/ev-owners-in-wa-to-pay-extra-100-annual-fee/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Anyone purchasing an EV in the state of Washington will have to pay an extra $100 with their registration - a bit counter-intuitive, considering that the government generally promotes EV purchases with incentives. You see, owners of gasoline-powered vehicles in WA pay an annual gasoline tax, and this new EV fee ensures that all drivers pay for the annual upkeep of roads.

According to the new rule, vehicles powered by electricity and capable of speeds in excess of 35 miles per hour will have to pay $100 with their registration, starting on or after February 1, 2013. "$100 isn't that big of a deal, but it's not well-balanced policy," says Jay Friedland, legislative director of Plug In America. "EV drivers really want to pay their fair share," he continued,"but it seems ridiculous from a policy standpoint."

It does seem incongruous due to the fact that the state offers tax exemptions for the purchase of EVs. It should also be noted that the new fee provides for "evaluating the feasibility of transitioning from a revenue collection system based on fuel taxes to a road user assessment system." For us, it might be a moment of bureaucratic irony, but for EV drivers in Washington state, its $100 more out of their pocket.

EV owners in WA to pay extra $100 annual fee originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 30 Dec 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric vehiclesev taxevsgasoline taxhybridcars.comwawashingtonwashington ev taxSun, 30 Dec 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Motorsports: Meet the Smart Fortwo that should be competing in the 2013 Dakar Rally [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/28/meet-the-smart-fortwo-that-should-be-competing-in-the-2013-dakar/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/28/meet-the-smart-fortwo-that-should-be-competing-in-the-2013-dakar/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/28/meet-the-smart-fortwo-that-should-be-competing-in-the-2013-dakar/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



When it comes to specialty applications of the Smart Fortwo, "off-road motorsports" may seem about as likely as "amphibious assault vehicle." Yet a team has come up with just that (the former, not the latter), creating a rally-ready runabout dubbed the Smart Dakar.

The team used a Fortwo to create a "Smart Buggy 4x4." The creator's website claims that the vehicle is in compliance with FIA regulations, and weighs only 750 kilograms (1,653 pounds). As the name suggests, the intent of this vehicle is to compete in the Dakar Rally, and it looks the part.

It may be the most hard-nosed Smart that you'll ever find, but it has an uphill battle to make it to competition. The race team, headed by Jose Luis "JL" Alvarez, does not have the funds to field a full assortment of vehicles, including two Smarts and a Honda CRF-450, and now all plans have been canceled for this year's Dakar Rally.

JL even appealed to his fans via a YouTube video with the hopes of crowd-funding the project, though it appears that attempt has failed. At any rate, the 2013 Dakar Rally starts January 5 in Lima, Peru, and ends January 20 in Santiago, Chile, and it appears that this team, with its unique ride, will not be attending.

Continue reading Meet the Smart Fortwo that should be competing in the 2013 Dakar Rally [w/video]

Meet the Smart Fortwo that should be competing in the 2013 Dakar Rally [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 28 Dec 2012 20:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 smart dakardakarfortwosmartsmart dakar 2013smart fortwoFri, 28 Dec 2012 20:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Teased: Alfa Romeo teases 4C, confirms 2013 arrival]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/28/alfa-romeo-teases-4c-confirms-2013-arrival/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/28/alfa-romeo-teases-4c-confirms-2013-arrival/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/28/alfa-romeo-teases-4c-confirms-2013-arrival/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Any time you open up your promotion for a new vehicle with the claim of a "car to end all cars," you better have the goods to back it up. If any automaker has said goods, it is Alfa Romeo. The brand behind the stunning 8C has promised a new car to debut in 2013. We all know that vehicle will be the 4C (a name which has been trademarked in America), which has been running ahead of schedule in development. With this teaser shot, it seems that a production version should be imminent. The report from Motor Authority, suspects that could be as early as the 2013 Geneva Motor Show.

We've been enamored with the 4C ever since we saw the first concept for it at Geneva in 2011. Since then, we've heard word of convertible variants and various facts and figures, such as a sub-2000-pound curb weight, and a 1.8-liter mill. The low weight, combined with the claimed 200 horsepower could put the 4C's zero to 60 times below four seconds.

As promising as this teaser is, our hopes of Alfa's tearing up American roads have been repeatedly dashed by reports from the Italian brand. Time and again, Alfa's supposed entry into the US has been delayed. Let us hope that this new teaser serves as warning that Alfa Romeo's invasion is imminent.

Alfa Romeo teases 4C, confirms 2013 arrival originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 28 Dec 2012 18:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 alfa romoe 4c4c4c coupealfa 4calfa romeoalfa romeo 4cFri, 28 Dec 2012 18:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Official: Beetle R-Line coming to America, orders now being accepted]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/28/beetle-r-line-coming-to-america-orders-now-being-accepted/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/28/beetle-r-line-coming-to-america-orders-now-being-accepted/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/28/beetle-r-line-coming-to-america-orders-now-being-accepted/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Volkswagen has jilted American enthusiasts once, by denying them the chance to pilot the Scirocco in the US. In September, it seemed like the German automaker was going to take the same course of action with the sporty Beetle R-Line. Now, comes word that the R-Line bug may be headed our way after all. This news comes from AskAVWSalesGuy.com. As you may have guessed, it is a blog written by a Volkswagen salesperson. According to the recent post, Volkswagen is now taking orders for the new Beetle R-Line, with delivery set for February or early March.

We've reached out to Volkswagen and it has been confirmed that the R-Line version of the Beetle will he coming to the US. In fact, it was brought to our attention that this news broke back in November, but may have been overshadowed by the buzz around the Beetle Convertible.

If you recall, the R-Line is the latest in what is becoming a growing family of Volkswagen Beetle variants. The package includes revised bodywork, 19-inch alloy wheels, bi-xenon headlights, LED running lights and LED license plate lights. Inside the R-Line receives leather seating surfaces and a navigation system. In Europe, the exterior package alone will cost 1,290 euros (about $1,665) and both the exterior and interior combined will set you back 1,675 euros ($2,162). European customers can select this package with either the 1.4 TSI Beetle or the TDI model. US pricing for this package has not yet been announced, but it is worth noting that the R-Line will be offered only on the Beetle Turbo. To learn more about the sported-up Bug, check out the press release below

Continue reading Beetle R-Line coming to America, orders now being accepted

Beetle R-Line coming to America, orders now being accepted originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 28 Dec 2012 15:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 volkswagen beetle r-linebeetlebeetle r-linebeetle turbo r-liner-linevolkswagenFri, 28 Dec 2012 15:43:00 EST<![CDATA[Official: Meet the 701-hp Mazzanti Evantra]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/28/meet-the-701-hp-mazzanti-evantra/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/28/meet-the-701-hp-mazzanti-evantra/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/28/meet-the-701-hp-mazzanti-evantra/#commentsFiled under: , ,



If you've heard of upstart boutique supercar maker Mazzanti, we salute you. About a year ago, we brought you news of this small Italian firm, which then was under the name Faralli & Mazzanti. The creation was the Evantra, and as the name of the company has changed, so has the car. The Mazzanti Evantra has been updated, and the previous turbocharged flat-six has been replaced with a 7.0-liter V8. The six-cylinder had two versions, capable of 403 or 603 horsepower. That is kid's stuff compared to the V8, which can put out an astounding 701 horsepower and 624 pound-feet or toque. That power allows it to get from zero to 62 miles per hour in just 3.2 seconds.

Other updates include a rear spoiler, reworked styling, and 20-inch OZ wheels wrapped in Continental tires. Power is sent to the rear wheels through a paddle-shift-operated direct shift gearbox, developed specifically for the Evantra by transmission producer Sila. The lightweight supercar (curb weight not given for Evantra V8, but original was 2645 pounds, so we don't suspect its much more than that.) will be brought to a stop by Brembo brakes that are six-piston in the front and four-piston in the rear.

Other kit includes a racing-style instrument closer, Bosch infotainment system and an "infinite" number of cabin material selections. While the swatches may be infinite, the number of Evantra V8's being produced is very small - only five will be made per year. No pricing has been given, though we suspect the old cliche "if you have to ask, you can't afford it," applies.

Meet the 701-hp Mazzanti Evantra originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 28 Dec 2012 15:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>7-liter V8boschfaralli mazzantiitalianitalymazzanitsupercarv8Fri, 28 Dec 2012 15:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: 2014 Volvo XC60 scooped before launch]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/28/2014-volvo-xc60-scooped-before-launch/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/28/2014-volvo-xc60-scooped-before-launch/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/28/2014-volvo-xc60-scooped-before-launch/#commentsFiled under: ,



A Chinese automotive site has snagged the first spy shots of the updated Volvo XC60, completely uncovered. While the overall profile of the vehicle remains intact, the headlights are heavily revised. Gone are the two-piece units, which featured the separate light strip between the main cluster and the grille. In place now are larger lenses, somewhat reminiscent of those found on the S60 sedan. Also updated is the grille, which gets a little wider to meet the new headlights. The grille receives more chrome, while the lower front fascia has been revised with wider openings. A pair of LED fog lights are pushed way out to the corners.

Out back, the license plate holder gets a bold chrome strip above it, and the recessed exhaust is replaced with chromed, dual exhaust outlets that have been integrated into the bottom of the rear bumper.

Inside, the instrument panel has been revised, with a large, centrally mounted speedo, featuring a digital display in the center. According to reports, this is a similar setup to that of the new V40. As such, it appears that the changes are thoughtful efforts to move the XC60 forward by incorporating the most current Volvo design elements.

2014 Volvo XC60 scooped before launch originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 28 Dec 2012 11:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 volvo xc60faceliftledredesignvolvoxc60Fri, 28 Dec 2012 11:26:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Toyota shares rise on smaller-than-expected settlement news]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/27/toyota-shares-rise-on-smaller-than-expected-settlement-news/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/27/toyota-shares-rise-on-smaller-than-expected-settlement-news/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/27/toyota-shares-rise-on-smaller-than-expected-settlement-news/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Toyota emblem

Following news that Toyota has proposed a massive settlement to address the owners of vehicles effected by the unintended acceleration recall, shares for the automaker are up 2.6 percent. Over the course of this year, Toyota's stock has jumped 51.7 percent.

"My initiate reaction would be 'that's it'... $1 billion charge that covers recalls and everything else and you are looking at a $250 million compensation fund, that's nothing," said a senior trader at a foreign brokerage to Automotive News. This settlement has been set aside to cover class-action lawsuits from 16 million owners of Toyota, Lexus and Scion vehicles and is separate from other impending lawsuits - including one consumer protection suit in California and another unfair-business-practices case brought on by 28 attorneys general.

In other positive news for investors, the Japanese yen has weakened compared to the US dollar. That likely means improved financial performance from the big Japanese automakers, the largest of which is Toyota.

Toyota shares rise on smaller-than-expected settlement news originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 27 Dec 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>National Highway Traffic Safety Administrationnhtsasettlementtoyotatoyota lawsuittoyota settlementtoyota unintended accelerationunintended accelerationThu, 27 Dec 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Speed bumps used to diagnose appendicitis?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/27/speed-bumps-used-to-diagnose-appendicitis/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/27/speed-bumps-used-to-diagnose-appendicitis/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/27/speed-bumps-used-to-diagnose-appendicitis/#commentsFiled under: ,



This... doesn't seem right, but just bear with this report from Wired. It seems as though driving over speed bumps can reveal those who are enduring acute appendicitis. This was a rumored thing among medical circles based purely on anecdotal data, but now there is an empirical study by the University of Oxford and Stoke Mandeville Hospital in the UK to back it up.

Apparently, when attempting to diagnose appendicitis, some doctors would ask if pain worsened when driving over speed bumps. It was not exact medicine, but according to Dr. Helen Ashdown of Oxford, it has been "as good as many other ways of assessing people with suspected appendicitis."

The Oxford study showed that the speed bump test was more helpful at ruling out appendicitis than confirming its diagnosis since other abdominal issues could also cause pain in those situations. So patients with acute appendicitis would experience pain going over a speed bump, but those who don't feel a jolt can be ruled out entirely as having acute appendicitis. That said, don't go driving over speed bumps expecting to perform your own diagnosis. Your results may vary!

Speed bumps used to diagnose appendicitis? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 27 Dec 2012 17:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apendicitisautopiadoctorhealthuniversity of oxfordwiredwired.comThu, 27 Dec 2012 17:14:00 EST<![CDATA[ETC: Volkswagen Sweden builds a Touareg tank to tackle winter]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/26/volkswagen-sweden-builds-a-touareg-tank-to-tackle-winter/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/26/volkswagen-sweden-builds-a-touareg-tank-to-tackle-winter/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/26/volkswagen-sweden-builds-a-touareg-tank-to-tackle-winter/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



When it comes to the ingenuity of the automotive aftermarket, a good bit of inspiration often seems to come from the creator's native market. Lifted Jeep Wrangler creations climb out of mountainous regions like Moab, while low-riders flow from the massive urban sprawl of Los Angeles. The vehicle you see above is no different. Dubbed the "Snowareg," it is a creation by Volkswagen of Sweden, and is perfectly suited for harsh Swedish winters. Based on a Touareg V8 TDI, the Snowareg sends 340 horsepower and 590 pound-feet of torque to a modified set of treads at each wheel.

Very little information is given outside of that, but from what we can tell from these photos, anyone lucky to venture into the elements with the Snowareg will be doing so in style. It appears to come with the full bevy of VW options, including Dynaudio stereo, panoramic moonroof, dual-zone climate control and (of course) heated seats. As we said, very little information was given, but it's a fair assumption that this monster isn't foreshadowing any future options packages...

Volkswagen Sweden builds a Touareg tank to tackle winter originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 26 Dec 2012 18:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>snowaregswedentouaregtracked vehiclevolkswagenvolkswagen of swedenvolkswagen snowaregWed, 26 Dec 2012 18:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Suzuki demand in US rises after bankruptcy]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/26/suzuki-demand-in-us-rises-after-bankruptcy/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/26/suzuki-demand-in-us-rises-after-bankruptcy/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/26/suzuki-demand-in-us-rises-after-bankruptcy/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Following word that Suzuki is ceasing car sales in America, it appears that demand for the Japanese automaker's wares have increased. According to The Detroit News, American Suzuki Motor Corp. will import an additional 2,500 vehicles to quench demand that has jumped since the company announced that it was filing for bankruptcy and ending sales in America.

Dealers recently informed their sales personnel that no more vehicles would be produced and that this was the final push. With heavy incentives and a seven-year warranty as value-adds, November sales for Suzuki rose in November some 22 percent, up to 2,224 vehicles. December sales also rose, but neither month's gains outweigh the long-term losses for the automaker. While Suzuki will sell roughly 22,000 cars this year in the US, it was selling about 120,000 annually before 2008.

As it stands, Suzuki will sell off the rest of its vehicle inventory, including the 2,500 additional units, and dealers will continue to provide parts an warranty work. With all of this negative news for the automaker, it's impressive to see an interest in Suzuki vehicles even with the imminent shuttering of its North American car sales.

Suzuki demand in US rises after bankruptcy originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 26 Dec 2012 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chapter 11suzukisuzuki bankruptcysuzuki motor americathe detroit newsWed, 26 Dec 2012 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[ETC: Innovative trailer concept inspired by USB drive [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/23/innovative-trailer-concept-inspired-by-usb-drives-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/23/innovative-trailer-concept-inspired-by-usb-drives-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/23/innovative-trailer-concept-inspired-by-usb-drives-w-video/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



When it comes to camping, Americans tend to either rough it with tents or go for broke in massive bus-size recreational vehicles. Down in Australia and New Zealand, the caravan reigns supreme. Not to be confused with the Dodge minivan offering, caravans provide humble accommodations for vacationing, but they can be pulled by much smaller vehicles than, say, a fullsize Airstream trailer.

New Zealand-based design house W2 has unveiled a new twist on the caravan with the Romotow, and it is clearly not your ordinary camper trailer. Claimed to be inspired by a USB drive, this trailer folds in and out of itself, providing extra living space. Lightweight materials are used, and the concept also features power-assisted braking, self-leveling pads and shocks and a backup camera. The interior features a bathroom, kitchenette, louvers for cross ventilation, and available features such as deck area and sliding doors.

W2 is currently at the design and testing stage. A fully functional Romotow should be ready by 2015. If you are a camper that's tired of roughing it, or one who enjoys the outdoors but would prefer more domestic confines, the Romotow looks like a solid option for a camping tr- er, caravan. Check out more on this wild concept in the video below.

Continue reading Innovative trailer concept inspired by USB drive [w/video]

Innovative trailer concept inspired by USB drive [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 23 Dec 2012 08:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>campercamper trailercaravanromotoww2w2 romotowSun, 23 Dec 2012 08:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Official: New Chrysler 300C Motown Edition spot features music mogul Berry Gordy Jr.]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/21/new-chrysler-300c-motown-edition-spot-features-music-mogul-berry/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/21/new-chrysler-300c-motown-edition-spot-features-music-mogul-berry/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/21/new-chrysler-300c-motown-edition-spot-features-music-mogul-berry/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Chrysler 300 Motown Edition - commercial screencap

We're not sure if you heard, but Chrysler likes to celebrate the fact that it's from Detroit. You know, with the whole "Imported from Detroit" campaign featuring Eminem? It seems brand synergy may have reached its peak in the form of the Chrysler 300 Motown. According to Chrysler, this special edition sedan sedan "pays tribute to the Motor City's resurgence and determination through Detroit-born style and world class ingenuity." In real terms, that means extra chrome bits here and there, including a chrome grill and 20-inch polished "heritage" style aluminum wheels, all accented with black Chrysler and "Motown" badges.

Inside, the 300 Motown gets unique Pearl White Nappa leather seating, while the rest of the interior fittings are black. In a nice nod, the Uconnect 8.4 infotainment system's SD card reader has been pre-loaded with 100 tracks from original Motown artists. That collection of music pumps though the 10-speaker Beats Audio system, complete with 12-channel amplifier. The 2013 Chrysler 300 Motown is set to arrive this spring, with an MSRP of $32,995, which does not include a $995 destination charge.

This special edition is no random celebration of Detroit's music, as "Motown: The Musical" is arriving to the Lunt Fontanne Theater in New York City today. To that end, Chrysler has a new television spot, featuring Berry Gordy Jr., founder of Motown Records. Check out the video and learn more about the new 300 Motown by scrolling below.

Continue reading New Chrysler 300C Motown Edition spot features music mogul Berry Gordy Jr.

New Chrysler 300C Motown Edition spot features music mogul Berry Gordy Jr. originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 21 Dec 2012 19:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 chrysler 300300300 motownbeats audiobeats by dreberry gordychryslerdetroitmotownmotown editionmotown musicalmotown recordsmotown the musicalFri, 21 Dec 2012 19:14:00 EST<![CDATA[Online Find Of The Day: 1992 Italdesign Aztec Barchetta is street-legal awesomeness]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/21/online-find-of-the-day-1992-italdesign-aztec-barchetta-is-stree/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/21/online-find-of-the-day-1992-italdesign-aztec-barchetta-is-stree/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/21/online-find-of-the-day-1992-italdesign-aztec-barchetta-is-stree/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

1992 Italdesign Aztec Barchetta - front three-quarter view

Where do concepts go when their auto show circuit life is over? For many, it's off to the scrap heap, while others manage to find their way into various automotive museums and private collections. Yet it is a select few that enjoy the honor of actually being driven on open roads. What you see here is the latter.

In 1988, design house Italdesign brought its wildly futuristic Aztec Barchetta concept to the Turin Motor Show. Visually, there were a lot of things going on here with the design, including spacecraft-styled rear quarter panels, see-through doors and a bold dual cockpit design. The body was constructed out of aluminum, Kevlar and carbon fiber. Additionally, the coupe features an intercom so the driver and passenger can hold conversations at speed.

While the styling is fit for an auto show floor, the mechanicals are borrowed from some of Europe's rallying greats, including the 250-horsepower five-cylinder of the Audi Quattro and a transmission borrowed from the Lancia Integrale's parts bin.

Yet you'll deduce from the 1992 model year on our headline that this isn't the same car that premiered in Turin in 1988. That's right, this is a street-legal production car. As the story goes, Myakawa, a Japanese industrial corporation, bought the rights to the concept and had German-based Audi tuner, Motoren-Tecknik-Mayer (better known as MTM) produce the Aztec Barchetta in very limited numbers. The first one built performed exhibition laps at the 1992 Monaco Grand Prix, and the originals sold for hundreds of thousands when new.

Very few were made (estimates vary wildly, from 15 to 50), with this model being assembled in EU spec. The seller, Specialized Vehicle Solutions, Ltd. of Manchester, England, is offering this silver example with just 75 miles on the odometer, though the listing doesn't disclose how much it's asking to digital tire-kickers.

Online Find Of The Day: 1992 Italdesign Aztec Barchetta is street-legal awesomeness originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 21 Dec 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aztecaztec barchettabarchettaitaldesignitaldesign azteclanciamotoren technik mayermtmmyakawaFri, 21 Dec 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Former Porsche CEO Wiedeking indicted over VW takeover bid]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/20/former-porsche-ceo-wiedeking-indicted-over-vw-takeover-bid/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/20/former-porsche-ceo-wiedeking-indicted-over-vw-takeover-bid/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/20/former-porsche-ceo-wiedeking-indicted-over-vw-takeover-bid/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Former Porsche CEO Wendelin Weideking at podium with arms up

Do you recall the failed efforts by Porsche to take over Volkswagen? According to a Bloomberg report, former Porsche CEO Wendelin Wiedeking (above) and ex-CFO Holger Haerter have finally been charged with market manipulation over the exercising of options as part of the German sportscar manufacturer's ill-fated attempt to take over the much larger VW. That failed bid eventually resulted in the reverse coming true - VW swallowing Porsche.

The charges leveled by Stuttgart prosecutors come after a three-year investigation centered around allegations that Porsche execs made a concerted effort to increase the company's share in VW to 75 percent in preparation for a hostile takeover. Porsche had previously told its investors on at least five occasions that it had no intention to buy VW.

Portions of the investigation have subsided, according to prosecutors, citing an inability to prove certain improprieties with a "necessary degree of certainty." The number of charges is down to 5 from a previous 14 counts regarding "information-based market manipulation."

For its part, Porsche has been quick to point out that the investigation centers around two men who are no longer with the company - Weideking and Haerter stepped down in July of 2009.

Former Porsche CEO Wiedeking indicted over VW takeover bid originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 20 Dec 2012 14:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>holeger haerterinsider tradingporscheporsche volkswagenstock manipulationvolkswagenvolkswagen porschevwwendelin wiedekingThu, 20 Dec 2012 14:16:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: <i>Petrolicious</i> drinks in the glory of two Datsun Roadsters in wine country]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/19/petrolicious-drinks-in-the-glory-of-two-datsun-roadsters/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/19/petrolicious-drinks-in-the-glory-of-two-datsun-roadsters/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/19/petrolicious-drinks-in-the-glory-of-two-datsun-roadsters/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Datsun Petrolicious video

The latest Petrolicious video, entitled "Napa Valley Roadsters," features high-def footage of Japanese metal rolling though beautiful California hill country. Specifically, the classic two-liter Datsun Roadster.

Like many of the Petrolicious videos that proceeded it, this is a celebration of the personal connection that one has with an automobile. What's more, it's always heartwarming to see how a mutual interest can bring two complete strangers together, who are now close friends. And finally, who doesn't enjoy watching classic machinery mosey through beautiful scenery?

Check it out for yourself in the video below.

Continue reading Petrolicious drinks in the glory of two Datsun Roadsters in wine country

Petrolicious drinks in the glory of two Datsun Roadsters in wine country originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 19 Dec 2012 19:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>240z280z510datsundatsun 240zdatsun 280zdatsun 510datsun roadsterpetroliciousWed, 19 Dec 2012 19:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Official: Volkswagen headed back to Super Bowl with new ad [w/videos]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/19/volkswagen-headed-back-to-super-bowl-with-new-ad-w-videos/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/19/volkswagen-headed-back-to-super-bowl-with-new-ad-w-videos/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/19/volkswagen-headed-back-to-super-bowl-with-new-ad-w-videos/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Volkswagen has proven that it can make a big splash among the high-dollar Super Bowl ad blitz. In the 2011 edition of the Big Game, the German automaker debuted The Force spot, which was widely popular, arguably maintaining its significance even after the 2012 Super Bowl spots aired. Recognizing the popularity of that ad and capitalizing upon it, VW unveiled The Bark Side.

According to VW, its ad campaign pulled huge numbers, with more than 55 million online views for The Force, and said helped contributed towards VW's 35 percent year-to-date sales increase. Volkswagen sees this year's Super Bowl as another chance to make gains in the American automotive marketplace. To that end, it is returning a fresh new ad. While no details were given as to the content of the ad, the Star Wars-inspired ads will be a hard act to follow. Check out the previous VW Super Bowl ads below and let us know if you think VW will go the Star Wars route again in the comments below.

Continue reading Volkswagen headed back to Super Bowl with new ad [w/videos]

Volkswagen headed back to Super Bowl with new ad [w/videos] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 19 Dec 2012 19:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>super bowlsuper bowl adthe bark sidethe forcetv avvolkswagenvw adWed, 19 Dec 2012 19:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Volkswagen to resume Routan minivan production in 2013 after all]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/18/volkswagen-to-resume-routan-minivan-production-in-2013-after-all/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/18/volkswagen-to-resume-routan-minivan-production-in-2013-after-all/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/18/volkswagen-to-resume-routan-minivan-production-in-2013-after-all/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Last week, we reported that production of the Chrysler-based Volkswagen Routan minivan had been halted since July, and its future seemed grim. It appears now that the Volkswagen minivan will live on, with production resuming in 2013. According to an Automotive News report, the Routan will be unchanged for the 2013 model year (surprise!) and continue to be produced at the Windsor, Ontario facility, where Chrysler assembles the Town and Country.

Questions over the future of the Routan have stemmed from its poor sales performance. Just 8,882 Routans were built through December 15 of this year - a drop of 38 percent over the same time period last year - and 9,923 Routans were sold in the US through the end of November, which is down 17 percent compared to that same stretch of time in 2011. The contract that VW has with Chrysler is set to end with the conclusion of the 2014 model year. Nether company has announced intentions to extend that contract.

As part of Volkswagen's plan to sell 800,000 vehicles by 2018, the minivan seems less and less a part of that strategy. Far more effective, would be a large, three-row crossover, to compete with the Ford Explorer and Honda Pilot, and we'll be seeing such a vehicle at the Detroit Auto Show next mont. So while the Routan may live on in the immediate future, its long-term hopes are certainly in question.

Volkswagen to resume Routan minivan production in 2013 after all originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 18 Dec 2012 15:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 volkswagen routanchryslerroutantown and countryvolkswagenvwTue, 18 Dec 2012 15:46:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Toyota to pay $17.35M federal fine for delayed Lexus RX recall]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/18/toyota-to-pay-17-35m-federal-fine-for-delayed-lexus-rx-recall/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/18/toyota-to-pay-17-35m-federal-fine-for-delayed-lexus-rx-recall/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/18/toyota-to-pay-17-35m-federal-fine-for-delayed-lexus-rx-recall/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

2010 Lexus RX hybrid - front three-quarter view

This summer, we brought you news that Lexus was recalling over 150,000 RX and RX hybrid crossovers tied to its massive pedal entrapment issue. An update to that story included word from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration that it was considering launching a federal investigation into potential delays by the automaker in notifying owners about the problem. Now comes news that parent company Toyota will pay a hefty $17.35 million in fines for delaying its recall of the 2010 Lexus RX 350 and RX 450h. According to The Detroit News, the Japanese automaker is being forced to pay the maximum fine for delaying recalls - and this isn't the first time. In fact, this is the fourth time since 2010 that Toyota has been required to do so, including paying $48.8M in civil penalties in 2010 for failing to recall vehicles in a timely manner - in three separate campaigns.

In addition to the fines, Toyota has agreed to restructure the way it handles quality control and review "safety-related issues." Though the Japanese automaker has not admitted any wrongdoing, Toyota has agreed to meet with NHTSA for six months on the matter and may extend the meetings another six months.

US Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood says he is counting on Toyota to improve its ability to address such safety issues: "With today's announcement, I expect Toyota to rigorously reinforce its commitment to adhering to the United States safety regulations," he said in a statement.

According to the report, Toyota has recalled more vehicles than any other automaker so far this year - 5.3 million in 13 separate campaigns - putting it about two million units ahead of second-place Honda.

This latest fine is a drop in the bucket compared to Toyota's expected global profits of $9.7 billion by the end of March, 2013. That said, Congress has already agreed to a new fine that will push the maximum penalty for delayed recalls up to $35 million. This increase will take effect in 2013.

Toyota to pay $17.35M federal fine for delayed Lexus RX recall originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 18 Dec 2012 13:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 lexus rx 3502010 lexus rx 450hlexusnational highway traffic safety administrationnhtsapedal entrapmentrxrx 350rx 450hrx recallrx450rx450hTue, 18 Dec 2012 13:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: Australian go-kart driver plays in traffic]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/17/australian-go-kart-driver-plays-in-traffic/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/17/australian-go-kart-driver-plays-in-traffic/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/17/australian-go-kart-driver-plays-in-traffic/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Go-kart recorded in city traffic in Sydney, Australia

From the files of "wouldn't it be cool if..." comes this case of mistaken vehicular identity. See, the driver of this go-kart must think that he's piloting an actual street-legal motor vehicle. That has to be the explanation as why someone would be crazy enough to take a go-kart on busy city streets. The poster of this video was on his way to Sydney, Australia's Kingsford-Smith Airport, when he spotted this very brave - or very stupid - individual. We're leaning towards the latter.

At one point, the kart driver appears to either nearly lose control of his diminutive vehicle or intentionally try to spin it, in either case, he almost careens into oncoming traffic. This video should serve as a reminder as to why we have sensible traffic laws and regulations for motor vehicles. Apparently the Sydney police agree, and are reportedly keeping an eye out for the driver. We hope this guy made it to work safely, but really, this is a little ridiculous. Fair warning: There is quite a lot of accent-tinged foul language in this one, so it might be Not Safe For Work.

Continue reading Australian go-kart driver plays in traffic

Australian go-kart driver plays in traffic originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 17 Dec 2012 16:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>australiadriving go-kart in trafficgo kartgo-kartgokartkartnsfwsydneyvideoMon, 17 Dec 2012 16:59:00 EST