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[Video: WTCC drivers try to get pole position by going... slower?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/19/wtcc-drivers-try-to-get-pole-position-by-going-slower/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/19/wtcc-drivers-try-to-get-pole-position-by-going-slower/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/19/wtcc-drivers-try-to-get-pole-position-by-going-slower/#commentsFiled under: , ,

WTCC Salzburgring slow qualifying

Question: When does the desire to win dictate that a racing driver try to drive slower than everyone else? Answer: When those drivers are attempting to qualify for the opening of the World Touring Car Championship at the Salzburgring track in Austria.

And now for the why. It seems that, after racing hard for the first several minutes of the qualifying session, several drivers decided to slow down to let others pass them in an effort to follow close behind in the slipstream. It's a well-known fact that drafting is one way to gain an advantage in close wheel-to-wheel racing, but the desire to catch a competitor has never proven so comical as it did in this instance.

The final lap of qualifying was so slow that time ran out as the field limped their way around the track. Officials were not amused, and after it was all said and done, 12 drivers were handed penalties, leaving Michel Nykjaer, who was not penalized, on pole. Check out the ridiculous scene of poor sportsmanship on video below.

Continue reading WTCC drivers try to get pole position by going... slower?

WTCC drivers try to get pole position by going... slower? originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 19 May 2013 13:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>poor sportsmanshipqualifyingSalzburgringwtccwtcc penaltiesSun, 19 May 2013 13:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Study: Autonomous cars found trustworthy in global study]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/19/autonomous-cars-found-trustworthy-in-global-study/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/19/autonomous-cars-found-trustworthy-in-global-study/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/19/autonomous-cars-found-trustworthy-in-global-study/#commentsFiled under: ,

Driverless car study

"Consumers Desire More Automated Automobiles." That's the title of one page of a new study published by Cisco Systems as part of its Customer Experience Report, which focuses on the "automobile buying and driving experience." The study specifically targeted technology and its integration into the cars and trucks of today and tomorrow, and, not surprisingly, roughly half of all those surveyed globally (1,500 consumers across 10 countries, says Cisco) "value the technology adoption reputation of a brand when selecting a vehicle." We also think it's of interest that "83 percent of global consumers prefer to research online for information on a car."

Perhaps the most intriguing bit of information gleaned from the study pertains to driverless automobiles. A full 57 percent "stated they would be likely to ride in a car controlled entirely by technology that does not require a human driver," with Brazil, India and China cited as the countries most willing to trust autonomous technology. When Cicso asked drivers if they'd let their kids ride in driverless cars, however, the figures dropped dramatically - just 46 percent found that idea acceptable.

In the United States, 60 percent of those surveyed said they would trust driverless cars, and that dropped to 48 percent when children were included. Japanese drivers were least likely to trust their lives or their children's lives to automated technology. Scroll down below for a press release from Cisco highlighting more of its findings.

Continue reading Autonomous cars found trustworthy in global study

Autonomous cars found trustworthy in global study originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 19 May 2013 08:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>autonomousciscocisco customer experience reportdriverlesstechnologySun, 19 May 2013 08:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Of course, Dubai Police add Bugatti Veyron to fleet]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/18/of-course-dubai-police-add-bugatti-veyron-to-fleet/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/18/of-course-dubai-police-add-bugatti-veyron-to-fleet/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/18/of-course-dubai-police-add-bugatti-veyron-to-fleet/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Dubai Police Bugatti Veyron

Well, now it's official: Nobody in Dubai is going to be able to outrun the police. You see, in addition to the Aston Martin One-77, Ferrari FF and Lamborghini Aventador that were already part of its stable of police cars, the constabulary in Dubai have most recently procured a Bugatti Veyron to add to the force. And, since the Veyron is the fastest production vehicle in the world, it'd take something truly special to evade the long arm of the law.

The image you see above was tweeted by Dubai's Chief of Police, and as you can see, it's painted up in the green and white hues we've come to expect from its ilk. We do have to wonder, though, if they drilled holes in the Bugatti's roof for the light bar or if it's held on by suction cups or something else less likely to damage the delicate carbon fiber bodywork...

Of course, Dubai Police add Bugatti Veyron to fleet originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 18 May 2013 13:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bugattibugatti veyrondubai policedubai police bugatti veyronpoliceSat, 18 May 2013 13:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: NASCAR racer Dick Trickle dies of self-inflicted gunshot wound]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/16/nascar-racer-dick-trickle-dies-of-self-inflicted-gunshot-wound/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/16/nascar-racer-dick-trickle-dies-of-self-inflicted-gunshot-wound/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/16/nascar-racer-dick-trickle-dies-of-self-inflicted-gunshot-wound/#commentsFiled under: ,

Dick Trickle

Well-known NASCAR racer Dick Trickle has dies of an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound. Trickle was 71 years of age.

According to reports, police in Lincoln County, NC were informed via an anonymous phone call (very likely made by Trickle himself) prior to the suicide where to find the body. Trickle's body was found at the Forest Lawn Cemetary in Boger City, NC, next to his pickup truck.

Our thoughts go out to Trickle's friends and family. Please keep any comments respectful and remember that this is not the time for jokes.

NASCAR racer Dick Trickle dies of self-inflicted gunshot wound originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 16 May 2013 17:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dick tricklenascarripThu, 16 May 2013 17:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Official: Pics Aplenty: Porsche 918 Spyder shows its production body]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/16/2015-porsche-918-spyder-official-details/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/16/2015-porsche-918-spyder-official-details/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/16/2015-porsche-918-spyder-official-details/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2015 Porsche 918 Spyder

We've seen it (in concept form, in officially rendered form, in flat black, and in Martini Racing livery), we've heard all about its 4.6-liter V8 with 608 horsepower, buoyed as it is by twin electric motors, its sophisticated all-wheel-drive system and carbon fiber monocoque chassis. We've even taken a ride in one. What we haven't had, up until now at least, is had all of these details about the Porsche 918 Spyder in one convenient press blast. And we also now know that it will be a introduced as a 2015 model.

Along with the official specifications, Porsche has seen fit to release a new batch of images showing its production body from all angles. We get a good look at the car's interior bits and pieces, including a few shots showing how people fit underneath the removable hardtop panel.

Porsche sums up its baby with the following words: Maximum driving fun with minimal fuel consumption. We like the sound of that, and we think it's cool that the 918 can travel up to 18 miles on electricity alone, with performance statistics that aren't far off what we had from sports cars from a few short decades ago.

We think you'll find plenty of interesting information in the press release below, but first, you'll want to browse through the high-res image gallery above to take in all the unique visuals. Enjoy!

Continue reading Pics Aplenty: Porsche 918 Spyder shows its production body

Pics Aplenty: Porsche 918 Spyder shows its production body originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 16 May 2013 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2015 porsche 918 spyderporsche 918 spyderporsheThu, 16 May 2013 14:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Toyota sudden acceleration class action may cover 22 million owners]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/16/toyota-sudden-acceleration-class-action-may-cover-22-million-own/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/16/toyota-sudden-acceleration-class-action-may-cover-22-million-own/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/16/toyota-sudden-acceleration-class-action-may-cover-22-million-own/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Distorted Toyota logo

A total of 22.6 million current and former Toyota owners have been sent notices that they may be eligible to receive compensation from the automaker for damages related to the unintended acceleration fiasco that has dominated headlines in 2009 and 2010. The total payout may be as high as $1.63 billion, according to The Detroit News.

Steve Berman, a lawyer for the owners, calls the potential deal "a landmark, if not a record, settlement in automobile defects class action litigation in the United States." Still, there's some debate about whether or not Toyota's proposed settlement is fair, as it includes $30 million for safety research and driver education programs - in other words, Toyota seems to be suggesting that drivers need more education on how to drive their correctly working and fully functional vehicles. For those keeping track, Toyota would also be paying lawyer fees of $200 million.

A US District Judge in California is scheduled to hold a so-called "fairness hearing" on June 14 that could decide the fate of this particular settlement. Further courtroom wrangling will be required to hash out any wrongful death suits levied against Toyota stemming from unintended acceleration claims, as those are not part of this class-action suit.

Toyota sudden acceleration class action may cover 22 million owners originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 16 May 2013 09:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>class actionsudden accelerationtoyotatoyota settlementunintended accelerationThu, 16 May 2013 09:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Official: Domestics win majority of annual Total Quality awards]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/15/domestics-win-majority-of-annual-total-quality-awards/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/15/domestics-win-majority-of-annual-total-quality-awards/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/15/domestics-win-majority-of-annual-total-quality-awards/#commentsFiled under:

2013 Strategic Vision Total Quality

Strategic Vision has released its annual Total Quality awards, and some of the winners may come as a surprise. To quote Alexander Edwards, President of Strategic Vision, "For the first time in over a decade our comprehensive and complete study of Quality resulted in more domestic winners than imports."

That's not to say import brands performed poorly. Volkswagen was voted the best overall corporation in Total Quality for the eighth-straight year, and Audi tied with Lexus for the best individual brand. Breaking things down on a model-by-model basis, here are some notable victories: Scroll down below for the full list of winners, both import and domestic, in each and every category.

Continue reading Domestics win majority of annual Total Quality awards

Domestics win majority of annual Total Quality awards originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 15 May 2013 09:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auto qualitycar qualitystrategic visiontotal quality awardsWed, 15 May 2013 09:13:00 EST<![CDATA[Official: HSV unholsters Holden Gen-F lineup [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/14/hsv-unholsters-holden-gen-f-lineup-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/14/hsv-unholsters-holden-gen-f-lineup-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/14/hsv-unholsters-holden-gen-f-lineup-w-video/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Holden HSV Gen-F GTS

Here it is, folks. Right on schedule, Holden has revealed full details on its reborn range of HSV Gen-F models. The bulk of the new HSV machinery will go on sale next month, though the baddest of them all, the supercharged HSV GTS, will reportedly be delayed until September.

The GTS may well be worth the wait, however, as its 430kW supercharged V8 engine (known as the LSA, the engine makes 580 horsepower and 556 pound-feet of torque in the US-market Chevy Camaro ZL1) will make this the fastest Holden ever produced. Lower-level ClubSport models will come equipped with a 6.2-liter LS3 V8 with 317kW of power. A ClubSport R8 sedan with a 325kW version of the engine and a ClubSport SV with a 340kW engine will also be available.

Bodystyle choices range from a sedan to a wagon and, of course, an El Camino a Ute called the Maloo, since this is Australia after all. Long-wheelbase Grange model and an upscale Senator model will be offered with slightly more toned-down exterior looks for those who'd rather blend in to the crowd. Pricing has yet to be announced, but you're welcome to scroll down below to watch a video before checking out all the details from Holden here.

Continue reading HSV unholsters Holden Gen-F lineup [w/video]

HSV unholsters Holden Gen-F lineup [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 14 May 2013 19:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>australiagen-fholdenhsvhsv gen-fhsv gtsTue, 14 May 2013 19:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Read This: Wall Street loves Tesla's Elon Musk, values the brand higher than Fiat]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/14/tesla-stock-value-extremely-high-elon-musk/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/14/tesla-stock-value-extremely-high-elon-musk/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/14/tesla-stock-value-extremely-high-elon-musk/#commentsFiled under: ,

Tesla side marker

Tesla's value on the stock market far exceeds the number of vehicles it contributes to the automotive market. According to a report from Automotive News, Tesla is currently valued at $8.8 billion. Almost unbelievably, though we've never claimed to have a firm grasp on the inner workings of the stock market, that's a full billion dollars more valuable than Fiat and three times more valuable than PSA Peugeot Citroën, says the report.

How unfathomable is that statistic? Consider the fact that Tesla, a ten-year-old company, just managed to turn its very first profit last quarter and has produced fewer than 10,000 vehicles in its lifetime. How does that compare to an automotive giant like Fiat? Well... it doesn't - The brand sold 44,772 Fiat 500s in the United States alone in 2012, and it owns or controls the Chrysler portfolio of brands along with Ferrari and Maserati... not to mention the hundreds of thousands of cars Fiat Group sells yearly in the rest of the world.

Granted, the number of vehicles sold by a brand is just a small portion of its value, but you may still wonder, Why is such a seemingly small player in the global automotive marketplace such a big deal on Wall Street? According to AN, it has a lot to do with its controversial and headline-grabbing CEO, Elon Musk, and the way he disseminates company information to his investors. How so? We suggest you take a good look at the article here for the whole story.

Wall Street loves Tesla's Elon Musk, values the brand higher than Fiat originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 14 May 2013 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>elon muskstock marketteslatesla stocktslaTue, 14 May 2013 10:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Infiniti hybrid sports car coming by 2016 after all?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/14/infiniti-hybrid-sports-car-coming-by-2016-after-all/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/14/infiniti-hybrid-sports-car-coming-by-2016-after-all/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/14/infiniti-hybrid-sports-car-coming-by-2016-after-all/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Infiniti Emerg-E Concept

Infiniti makes plenty of good cars, crossovers and SUVs. The premium Japanese brand also has a well-defined presence in racing on the world's largest stage in the form of a partnership with Red Bull in Formula 1. What Infiniti doesn't have, though, is a range-topping halo car.

A report from Autocar in the UK suggests that Infiniti's gaping top-shelf hole may soon be plugged by 2016 with a new hybrid sports car along the lines of the well-received Emerg-E and Essence concepts. This report is contrary to news we heard from Autocar late last year, when company officials reportedly told the publication that a swoopy and fuel-efficient machine like the Emerg-E wouldn't be produced.

Interestingly, Infiniti is said to sense strong demand from so-called "little emperors ... who are used to getting what they want," many of whom live in Asian countries, who are also environmentally conscious. Infiniti exec Andy Palmer told Autocar to expect something "like the Tesla sports car option, but with more flexibility in terms of range."

Reading between the lines, we picture a luxurious coupe with some combination of electric motors and gasoline engines providing power levels between 400 and 500 horsepower. We may not qualify as "little emperors" ourselves, but we certainly welcome the notion of high-performance machines that also happen to be fuel efficient.

Infiniti hybrid sports car coming by 2016 after all? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 14 May 2013 08:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>emerg-eessencehalo carhybrid sports carinfinitiinfiniti emerg-einfiniti hybridTue, 14 May 2013 08:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: GM to go coastal on dealer improvements]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/14/gm-to-go-coastal-on-dealer-improvements/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/14/gm-to-go-coastal-on-dealer-improvements/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/14/gm-to-go-coastal-on-dealer-improvements/#commentsFiled under: ,

Cadillac dealership

According to a report from The Detroit News citing "sources familiar with the company's plan," General Motors will spend $200 million to revamp dealerships on the East and West Coasts, specifically in California, New York and New Jersey. Many dealerships will be restyled, some will be relocated and some will be closed entirely.

Car buyers in coastal regions of the US, particularly in California, tend to prefer import brands, but GM's market share falls short even when compared to crosstown rivals Ford and Chrysler. Naturally, GM senses a prime opportunity to attract a larger share in these locations and has reportedly seen improvements already in some metropolitan areas in California where it has focused on making inroads.

In addition to restyling its East Coast dealerships, GM will reportedly move some of their service departments to offsite locations to free up space for better facilities.

GM to go coastal on dealer improvements originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 14 May 2013 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>californiagmgm dealershipsnew jerseynew yorkTue, 14 May 2013 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Breaking: Lamborghini unveils Egoista Concept for selfish supercar owners]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/12/lamborghini-egoista-concept-supercar/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/12/lamborghini-egoista-concept-supercar/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/12/lamborghini-egoista-concept-supercar/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



Does the mere desire to own a ridiculously high-performance and stupendously expensive supercar automatically make its prospective owner a little selfish? Not necessarily, but if said supercar has just one seat, a case could certainly be made that its megalomaniacal owner simply doesn't want to share the experience with his friends...

For such an owner, Lamborghini has presented the Egoista Concept - perhaps fittingly, the car was unveiled at a private 50th birthday party that the automaker seems to have thrown for itself. From what we can glean without any official announcement from Lamborghini to go by, the Egoista Concept has room for a single occupant, is powered by a 5.2-liter V10 engine and boasts styling said to be inspired by an Apache helicopter.

While we eagerly await more details from Lamborghini, we suggest you click on the image above to view the Egoista in high resolution. With just one angle to go by, we can't really offer much commentary on its design, other than to say it joins the Veneno as one of the more memorable self-given birthday presents in recent memory.

*UPDATE: Full image gallery and press release from Lamborghini added.

Continue reading Lamborghini unveils Egoista Concept for selfish supercar owners

Lamborghini unveils Egoista Concept for selfish supercar owners originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 12 May 2013 02:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>lamborghinilamborghini birthdaylamborghini egoistaSun, 12 May 2013 02:19:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: Watch Sebastien Loeb take first drive in Peugeot 208 T16 Pikes Peak racer]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/09/sebastien-loeb-drives-peugeot-208-t16-pikes-peak-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/09/sebastien-loeb-drives-peugeot-208-t16-pikes-peak-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/09/sebastien-loeb-drives-peugeot-208-t16-pikes-peak-video/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Peugeot 208 T16 Pikes Peak racer with Sebastien Loeb

The annual Pikes Peak International Hill Climb is one of the few events in motorsport with an Unlimited Class that is truly... well, unlimited. To put the word 'unlimited' in perspective, consider the Red Bull-sponsored Peugeot 208 T16: its 3.2-liter bi-turbo V6 engine puts out 875 maximum horsepower, sending power to all four wheels through a six-speed sequential gearbox. That's powerful enough to catapult the T16 from 0-62 miles per hour in a scant 1.8 seconds. Keep it planted and it'll hit 125 in 4.8 seconds and 150 in 7.0 flat.

That, ladies and gentlemen, is freakishly fast.

Just ask Sébastien Loeb, a man who's no stranger to high-performance machinery, having won nine World Rally championships, who said of the T16 after his first testing session: "I've never driven anything that accelerates so fast! ... It's got the downforce of a Formula 1 car, the wide tires of an endurance racing prototype and a differential like a WRC car."

And that right there is the automotive definition of 'Unlimited.' Oh, did we mention that the T16 is one of the meanest looking four-wheeled vehicles we've ever laid eyes on? See for yourself in the high-res image galleries, press release and video below.

Continue reading Watch Sebastien Loeb take first drive in Peugeot 208 T16 Pikes Peak racer

Watch Sebastien Loeb take first drive in Peugeot 208 T16 Pikes Peak racer originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 May 2013 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>peugeotpeugeot 208 t16pikes peakred bullsebastien loebunlimited classvideoThu, 09 May 2013 19:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: Leno drives a V8-powered Morgan Plus 8 hot rod]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/08/leno-drives-a-v8-powered-morgan-plus-8-hot-rod/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/08/leno-drives-a-v8-powered-morgan-plus-8-hot-rod/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/08/leno-drives-a-v8-powered-morgan-plus-8-hot-rod/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Morgan Plus 8 Hot Rod in Jay Leno's Garage

We love Morgan for its quintessentially British approach to motoring charm, and while the automaker has recently ventured into more modern machinery with the launch and development of its Aero line, it's the classic Plus 8 and Roadster that have stood the test of time, having first been released back in 1968.

Of course, classic cars are all well and good for those who covet the joy of driving, just so long as it's kept to weekends and sunny days, but there's always room for tinkering and improvement to bring things up to modern levels of performance and reliability. With that in mind, we suggest you scroll down below to watch Jay Leno put a hot-rod Morgan Plus 8 through its paces with its builder, Jason Len of XKs Unlimited, along for the ride.

Continue reading Leno drives a V8-powered Morgan Plus 8 hot rod

Leno drives a V8-powered Morgan Plus 8 hot rod originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 08 May 2013 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>jay lenojay lenos garagemorganmorgan plus 8videoxks unlimitedWed, 08 May 2013 14:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: Scion FR-S pitted against oldtimers RX-8 and S2000]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/07/scion-fr-s-pitted-against-mazda-rx-8-honda-s2000/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/07/scion-fr-s-pitted-against-mazda-rx-8-honda-s2000/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/07/scion-fr-s-pitted-against-mazda-rx-8-honda-s2000/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Scion FR-S vs Mazda RX-8 vs Honda S2000

There are very few vehicles available today that compare directly with the Scion FR-S and Subaru BRZ twins. A case could be made for the Mazda MX-5 Miata, and possibly even six-cylinder versions of American coupes like the Ford Mustang. Pretty much everything else is either too expensive or is powered by the wrong set of wheels.

The boys from EverydayDriver on YouTube decided the only fair way to judge the inherent qualities of the Toyobaru twins was to pit them against two standard-bearers of years past: The Honda S2000 and Mazda RX-8. Neither of these cars is an exact matchup, with the Honda boasting a convertible top and the RX-8 offering more practicality via a rear seat and two reverse-opening doors for easier access. What they do offer, however, are similar performance stats and proven reputations for excellent handling.

None of this talk answers the real question, though: Which one wins the comparison test? Scroll down to watch the video, and be prepared for something of a surprise conclusion.

Continue reading Scion FR-S pitted against oldtimers RX-8 and S2000

Scion FR-S pitted against oldtimers RX-8 and S2000 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 07 May 2013 19:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 scion fr-shondahonda s2000mazdamazda rx-8scionscion fr-svideoTue, 07 May 2013 19:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: Red Bull RX-7 goes drift crazy on New Zealand's Crown Range]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/07/red-bull-rx-7-goes-drift-crazy-on-new-zealands-crown-range/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/07/red-bull-rx-7-goes-drift-crazy-on-new-zealands-crown-range/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/07/red-bull-rx-7-goes-drift-crazy-on-new-zealands-crown-range/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Red Bull Crown Range drifting by Mad Mike

For the first time ever, the Crown Range, New Zealand's highest paved road, was closed off for the drifting pleasure of one man. That man is Mad Mike Whiddett, and the machine he's piloting is a heavily modified Mazda RX-7 sponsored by the energy-rich crew from Red Bull and powered by a 750-horsepower quad-rotor engine. There will be smoke. Lots and lots of smoke.

Mad Mike hits speeds in excess of 140 miles per hour over the course of the road's six and a half miles, which boasts 47 individual corners at over 3,500 feet of elevation. Scroll down for all kinds of fire-belching, tire-squealing and smoke-inducing action. Or, as Mad Mike himself puts it, "A dream turned into reality."

Continue reading Red Bull RX-7 goes drift crazy on New Zealand's Crown Range

Red Bull RX-7 goes drift crazy on New Zealand's Crown Range originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 07 May 2013 18:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crown rangedriftingmad bikemazdamazda rx-7mazda rx-7 drift carnew zealandred bullrotary drift carvideoTue, 07 May 2013 18:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Read This: Tesla to earn $250 million from sales of California environmental credits]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/06/tesla-to-earn-250-million-from-sales-of-california-environmenta/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/06/tesla-to-earn-250-million-from-sales-of-california-environmenta/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/06/tesla-to-earn-250-million-from-sales-of-california-environmenta/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Tesla Model S

Tesla Motors is expected to release quarterly earnings figures within the next few days, and the Silicon Valley automaker is thought to have attained profitability for the first time ever. As it turns out, a good bit of that profit will reportedly come from the State of California.

According to an article from the LA Times, Tesla, which is reportedly on pace to sell 20,000 vehicles in 2013, receives as much as $35,000 in environmental credits from California for each Model S it sells. These credits can then be sold to other automakers that do business in the state but don't sell zero-emission vehicles of their own. Some experts believe Tesla could earn up to $250 million from such ZEV credits.

While profits from ZEV credits equals good news for Tesla, some experts and rival automakers aren't very pleased with California's strong-arm tactics when it comes to the sales of electric vehicles. "At the end of the day, other carmakers are subsidizing Tesla," said Thilo Koslowski, an analyst at Gartner Inc.

Mary Nichols, chairwoman of the California Air Resources Board, counters by saying, "We are in the air pollution business, not the car business... There is some jealously of Tesla going on here." Check out the entire article from the LA Times here, it's an interesting look into the inner-workings of the business side of the eco-friendly automotive marketplace.

Tesla to earn $250 million from sales of California environmental credits originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 06 May 2013 19:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>californiacarbelectric carteslatesla model szero emissions vehiclezev creditsMon, 06 May 2013 19:15:00 EST<![CDATA[38k GM eAssist hybrids recalled for circuit board, fire risk]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/06/38k-gm-eassist-hybrids-recalled-for-circuit-board-fire-risk/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/06/38k-gm-eassist-hybrids-recalled-for-circuit-board-fire-risk/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/06/38k-gm-eassist-hybrids-recalled-for-circuit-board-fire-risk/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

2013 Chevy Malibu Eco

General Motors has issued a recall covering 38,197 2012 and 2013 model-year Chevy Malibu Eco, Buick LaCrosse and Regal sedans equipped with eAssist, and sold in the United States. The automaker will check the generator control module for proper operation. Only vehicles built before December 2012 are being recalled.

According to the automaker, a malfunctioning generator control module could slowly drain the battery, causing an indicator to light up in the dash. If that indicator is ignored, the driver may experience a stalling engine, and in some cases, "a burning or melting odor, smoke, and, in rare instances, a fire in the trunk."

GM says the issue is not with the eAssist battery pack; the smoke and fire comes from overheating of the control board. One trunk fire has been reported, but no injuries are known. Scroll down below for the official press release from GM.

Continue reading 38k GM eAssist hybrids recalled for circuit board, fire risk

38k GM eAssist hybrids recalled for circuit board, fire risk originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 06 May 2013 13:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>buickbuick lacrossebuick regalchevychevy malibu ecoeassistgmrecallMon, 06 May 2013 13:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Alfa exec confirms SUV to arrive within 2-3 years]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/03/alfa-exec-confirms-suv-to-arrive-within-2-3-years/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/03/alfa-exec-confirms-suv-to-arrive-within-2-3-years/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/03/alfa-exec-confirms-suv-to-arrive-within-2-3-years/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Alfa Romeo Kamal

"There will certainly be an SUV in the next two or three years," said Damien Dally, head of the Alfa Romeo brand in the UK, speaking to The Telegraph. We've known for quite some time that Alfa Romeo had plans for a sport utility vehicle - the automaker has gone so far as to produce a concept of what such a machine may look like, as seen by the Kamal above.

We've even heard a few dates from Alfa Romeo about when to expect its production SUV, and so far, each of them has come and gone with nary a 'ute to be seen. Still, where there's smoke there's fire, and we really do think the Italian automaker is cooking up an SUV or two, possibly based on underpinnings borrowed from either the Jeep Cherokee, Grand Cherokee, or both - remember, both Jeep and Alfa fall under the massive Fiat umbrella held up by Sergio Marchionne.

Of course, we've been waiting for Alfa Romeo's return to the United States for what feels like an eternity, so we're not holding our breath for a flock of US-market machines anytime soon. That said, we'll keep our ears to the ground for more on any potential new Alfa SUVs or crossovers, and as soon as we know anything solid, so will you.

Alfa exec confirms SUV to arrive within 2-3 years originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 03 May 2013 10:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alfa romeoalfa romeo crossoveralfa romeo kamalalfa romeo suvFri, 03 May 2013 10:44:00 EST<![CDATA[Motorsports: X Games announces finalists to host Summer 2014 event [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/03/x-games-announces-finalists-to-host-summer-2014-event-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/03/x-games-announces-finalists-to-host-summer-2014-event-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/03/x-games-announces-finalists-to-host-summer-2014-event-w-video/#commentsFiled under: ,

X Games rally

It's the end of an era. The Summer X Games have been held in and around downtown Los Angeles for more than 10 years, but the summer of 2013 will be the last appearance for the foreseeable future of the X Games in The City of Angels. For those keeping track, the X Games first took place in Rhode Island, followed by San Diego and San Francisco and then finally Philadelphia before finding a semi-permanent home in LA.

So, where will the Summer X Games be in 2014? That has yet to be decided, with ESPN (which runs the event) announcing a list of potential locations: Chicago, IL; Detroit, MI; Austin, TX; and Charlotte, NC. Whichever city wins will get a contract with the X Games for three years, meaning there may be another host city in 2017.

According to ESPN, "Detroit has been the most vociferous in its desire to host the games." We'd love to see X Games in Detroit, not that we have any sway over the decision, and you're welcome to watch a teaser video from some Detroit X Games backers down below.

Continue reading X Games announces finalists to host Summer 2014 event [w/video]

X Games announces finalists to host Summer 2014 event [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 03 May 2013 09:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>espnsummer x gamesx gamesx games detroitFri, 03 May 2013 09:59:00 EST