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: Is your brain predisposed to make you love Rolls-Royce?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/19/is-your-brain-predisposed-to-make-you-love-rolls-royce/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/19/is-your-brain-predisposed-to-make-you-love-rolls-royce/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/19/is-your-brain-predisposed-to-make-you-love-rolls-royce/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

1973 Rolls-Royce Corniche

XCAR has taken a look at what could very well be one of the most quintessential British cars ever built: the 1973 Rolls-Royce Corniche. The question at hand is whether or not expensive luxury items like artisan foods, designer clothing and yes, high-end automobiles are worth their monetary cost. Do they bring some undefined additional value to the table over their low-buck counterparts, or are they simply an excellent way to part a fool from his dollar bills? While the video below can't comment on four-course meals or $400 jeans, our valiant host does have a word or two on the joy a Rolls-Royce can bring to your life.

That's even true of a model like the '73 Corniche. Built during one of the darker days of the company's history, the convertible was designed and manufactured by an automaker on the verge of collapse. Still, it manages to hold on to that essential spirit of luxury so crucial to the Rolls-Royce brand. Check out the video below to see what we mean.

Continue reading Is your brain predisposed to make you love Rolls-Royce?

Is your brain predisposed to make you love Rolls-Royce? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 19 Jun 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1973 rolls-royce cornichecornicherolls-roycerolls-royce cornichevideoxcarWed, 19 Jun 2013 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Official: PGO launches Cévennes Speedster in Europe]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/19/pgo-launches-cevennes-speedster-in-europe/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/19/pgo-launches-cevennes-speedster-in-europe/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/19/pgo-launches-cevennes-speedster-in-europe/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2013 PGO Automobiles Cevennes

Now, from the "weird little French car" file, we give you the 2013 PGO Automobiles Cévennes speedster. Powered by a turbocharged 1.6-liter BMW four-cylinder engine mounted midship, the little roadster serves up a healthy 181 horsepower and 177 pound-feet of torque. The modest muscle gets to the rear wheels via a six-speed manual transmission. Consider our interest piqued.

PGO Automobiles says the new model tips the scales at a scant 2,200 pounds and features a theoretical top speed of 140 miles per hour. That's plenty fast enough to get you in trouble or get you dead. Fortunately, engineers also managed to bolster the car's rigidity by 15 percent and a new MacPhereson strut setup front and rear helps the car handle the twisties with a bit more composure than previous efforts from the automaker.

As you may recollect, PGO Automobiles got its start manufacturing kit cars modeled after the Porsche 356. Its clear the company's designers have held on to some of their favorite elements from that car. Rounded fenders front and rear as well as familiar-looking headlights all harken back to the little German droptop, but elements like the smallish windshield and variety of air inlets clearly identify the car as French. We dig it.

PGO launches Cévennes Speedster in Europe originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 19 Jun 2013 19:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 pgo automobiles cevennespgopgo automobilespgo cevennesWed, 19 Jun 2013 19:13:00 EST<![CDATA[Read This: PickupTrucks.com's latest test results in a familiar winner [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/19/pickuptrucks-coms-latest-test-results-in-a-familiar-winner-w-v/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/19/pickuptrucks-coms-latest-test-results-in-a-familiar-winner-w-v/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/19/pickuptrucks-coms-latest-test-results-in-a-familiar-winner-w-v/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

2013 PickupTrucks.com Light Duty Challenge

PickupTrucks.com has gone and thrown the latest batch of half-ton pickups into a cage match to see who would come out on top. The site put the 2014 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, GMC Sierra 1500, 2013 Ford F-150, Ram 1500, Toyota Tundra and Nissan Titan through a battery of tests. Those included 0-60 miles per hour acceleration, 60-0 mph deceleration, fuel economy, a hill climb, and payload and towing. They even threw the rigs on an autocross course to evaluate overall handling. Each truck was given points based on how it scored in each evaluation.

Who came out on top? Somewhat surprisingly, the 2013 Ford F-150 walked away with the gold, though fewer than 50 points separated first and fourth place. Head over to PickupTrucks.com to read the full evaluation and the final results. You may be shocked to see exactly where some of the segment's newest additions placed. You can also watch a video on the test below.

Continue reading PickupTrucks.com's latest test results in a familiar winner [w/video]

PickupTrucks.com's latest test results in a familiar winner [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 19 Jun 2013 16:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chevroletchevrolet silveradofordford f-150gmcgmc sierranissannissan titanpickuptrucks.comtoyotatoyota tundraWed, 19 Jun 2013 16:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Official: Aston Martin unveils new Gulf livery for Le Mans]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/19/aston-martin-unveils-new-gulf-livery-for-le-mans/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/19/aston-martin-unveils-new-gulf-livery-for-le-mans/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/19/aston-martin-unveils-new-gulf-livery-for-le-mans/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Aston Martin Racing Vantage GTE Gulf Livery

Aston Martin has pulled back the sheets on the company's new Gulf livery for this weekend's 24 Hours of Le Mans. Penned by Jonathan Wesley, the Number 97 Vantage GTE will wear the colors throughout race week as the car prepares to compete in the 90th 24 Hours of Le Mans. Darren Turner, Stefan Mucke and Peter Dumbreck will all take turns behind the wheel of the car. Wesley said he designed the livery using the four Gulf corporate colors arranged from lightest to dark, with the right side painted white and the left painted dark blue to symbolize the change in race conditions from daylight to dusk.

Fans chose Wesley's design from a spate of others as part of a Gulf contest. As a result, the designer will spend Le Mans weekend as a VIP guest with Aston Martin. The company says the No. 97 car will compete along with four other Vantage GTE bruisers, but will be the only one to carry the special livery. You can read the full press release below for more information.

Continue reading Aston Martin unveils new Gulf livery for Le Mans

Aston Martin unveils new Gulf livery for Le Mans originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 19 Jun 2013 16:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 24 hours of le mans2013 le mans24 hours of le mansaston martinaston martin vantageaston martin vantage gtegulf liveryvantage gteWed, 19 Jun 2013 16:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Study: New J.D. Power Initial Quality Study puts Porsche, GM in spotlight]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/19/new-j-d-power-initial-quality-study-puts-porsche-gm-in-spotlig/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/19/new-j-d-power-initial-quality-study-puts-porsche-gm-in-spotlig/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/19/new-j-d-power-initial-quality-study-puts-porsche-gm-in-spotlig/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Porsche Emblem

J.D. Power and Associates has released its annual Initial Quality Study, and this year, Porsche and General Motors took the spotlight. The study, which asks new car owners to report problems experienced during the first 90 days of ownership, found that overall, the industry averages 113 problems per 100 vehicles.

Porsche managed a score of just 80 problems per 100 vehicles, while GMC took the second spot on the podium with 90. Lexus filled out the top three with 94 problems per 100 vehicles, followed by Infiniti at 95 and Chevrolet at 97. The study also looks at specific models, and found the Lexus LS to enjoy the best initial quality at 59 problems per 100 vehicles.

Interestingly enough, the report found that around two-thirds of most owner problems experienced in the first 90 days are attributable to vehicle design instead of mechanical failure. Specifically - echoing a refrain we've been hearing for the last few years - owners are having a hard time figuring out how to use the technology present in their new vehicles. Head over to the J.D. Power site for more information, or scroll down below for the company's related press release.

Continue reading New J.D. Power Initial Quality Study puts Porsche, GM in spotlight

New J.D. Power Initial Quality Study puts Porsche, GM in spotlight originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 19 Jun 2013 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gmgmcjd powerjd power and associatesjd power inital quality studyporscheWed, 19 Jun 2013 15:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Korres Project 4 is an on- and off-road Corvette-powered juggernaut [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/19/korres-project-4-is-an-on-and-off-road-corvette-powered-juggern/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/19/korres-project-4-is-an-on-and-off-road-corvette-powered-juggern/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/19/korres-project-4-is-an-on-and-off-road-corvette-powered-juggern/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Korres Project 4

It looks as if the Local Motors Rally Fighter will soon have some competition. The Korres Project 4 boasts a 7.0-liter LS7 V8 lifted from the Chevrolet Corvette Z06. With 505 horsepower shoved into a 3,527-pound package, the creation should have no trouble covering ground very quickly. Dimitris Korres, the Greek architect behind the Project 4, says his creation can clip to 60 miles per hour in 3.8 seconds on its way to a top speed of 186. That's all par for the course, but it's the machine's innovative suspension that makes it stand out from the crowd.

Capable of increasing or decreasing its ride height as necessary, the Project 4 can cover all sorts of terrain at speed. With locking differentials front, center and rear, the creation has the potential to be very impressive. You can check out a pair of videos below for a better look. Note that the photos in the gallery show the bruiser with its body panels removed for a better look at its innovative suspension and bare aluminum chassis, and check out this link for more.

Continue reading Korres Project 4 is an on- and off-road Corvette-powered juggernaut [w/video]

Korres Project 4 is an on- and off-road Corvette-powered juggernaut [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 19 Jun 2013 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>korreskorres project 4project 4videoWed, 19 Jun 2013 14:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Carbon Motors officially files for bankruptcy, lawsuits follow]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/19/carbon-motors-officially-files-for-bankruptcy-lawsuits-follow/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/19/carbon-motors-officially-files-for-bankruptcy-lawsuits-follow/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/19/carbon-motors-officially-files-for-bankruptcy-lawsuits-follow/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Carbon Motors E7 diesel police car - front three-quarter view

So much for Carbon Motors. The would-be police pursuit vehicle manufacturer has officially filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy (read: liquidation) according to the Indianapolis Business Journal. The company officially lists its liabilities at $21.7 million and its assets at a mere $18,976, including one prototype, a few bits of furniture, books and the company's intellectual property. Some of the largest debtors are investors and suppliers, including BMW. The German automaker claims Carbon Motors owes them some $3 million.

Carbon Motors built a business model around for its diesel-powered E7 police car by securing a Department of Energy loan through its Advanced Technology Vehicles Manufacturing program for $310 million, but the US Government denied the company's application in March of 2012. From that point, it was evidently only a matter of time before the company caved in on itself. The warning signs were already thick on the ground when it was revealed that the company had quietly pulled out of its Connerville, Indiana plant back in April.

Bankruptcy protection shields Carbon Motors from lawsuits against the manufacturer. That's good news, considering three former executives have already filed a lawsuit against the company earlier this year for $600,000 in deferred wages.

Carbon Motors officially files for bankruptcy, lawsuits follow originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 19 Jun 2013 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bankruptcycarbon motorscarbon motors bankruptcycarbon motors e7diesel police carpolice carsWed, 19 Jun 2013 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Official: 2014 Aston Martin Vanquish Volante drops its mind-blowingly beautiful top]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/19/2014-aston-martin-vanquish-volante-reveal-gallery/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/19/2014-aston-martin-vanquish-volante-reveal-gallery/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/19/2014-aston-martin-vanquish-volante-reveal-gallery/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2014 Aston Martin Vanquish Volante - front three-quarter view, blue

Behold the 2014 Aston Martin Vanquish Volante in all its convertible glory. Like its hard top twin, the convertible Vanquish boasts a 5.9-liter V12 engine with 565 horsepower and 457 pound-feet of torque. That thrust is good enough to push the car to a top speed of 183 miles per hour, and Aston Martin says the 2014 Vanquish Volante is the first of the company's convertibles to bow with body panels comprised entirely of carbon fiber. It also offers the stiffest body structure in the history of the automaker's droptop efforts.

The machine's power three-layer top can be put up or down at speeds of up to 30 mph and can do its dance in around 14 seconds. Interestingly, designers went with a full-length windshield, which runs directly up to the cloth top. there is no sheetmetal (or in this case, carbon fiber) header between the glass and the roof. Very cool.

A six-speed automatic transmission handles shifting duties and a new set of springs and dampers help cope with altered dynamics of the convertible. Aston Martin claims the 2014 Vanquish Volante offers up a weight distribution of 51:49, and a set of carbon-ceramic brakes help bring the whole party down from speed. If you want one, get ready to shell out at least $297,995 for the pleasure. Deliveries are set to begin early next year. Check out the full press release below once you stop gawking at the gallery above.

Continue reading 2014 Aston Martin Vanquish Volante drops its mind-blowingly beautiful top

2014 Aston Martin Vanquish Volante drops its mind-blowingly beautiful top originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 19 Jun 2013 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 aston martin vanquish2014 aston martin vanquish volanteaston martinaston martin vanquishvanquish volanteWed, 19 Jun 2013 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Official: Volkswagen builds 30-millionth Golf]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/18/volkswagen-builds-30-millionth-golf/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/18/volkswagen-builds-30-millionth-golf/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/18/volkswagen-builds-30-millionth-golf/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Volkswagen Golf Generations

Volkswagen has officially built 30 million Golf units since the first hatch rolled off the assembly line in early 1974. The company says the accomplishment has cemented the compact's place as the most successful European car ever built, though we imagine the original Beetle might have something to say about that. Even so, Volkswagen says that statistically speaking, the company has sold 2,000 Golf units for every day of production. Chew on that notion for a moment. The Golf has remained relevant over the past four decades thanks to a steady stream of generational updates, and last year, the Volkswagen Golf took the honor of being named the World Car of the Year.

A Golf TDI was the 30 millionth unit produced, and Volkswagen says the machine will be on display at the automaker's Wolfsburg facility. You can read the full press release below for more information, including a generational breakdown of each Golf model.

Continue reading Volkswagen builds 30-millionth Golf

Volkswagen builds 30-millionth Golf originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 18 Jun 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 vw golf30 million vw golfsvwvw golfTue, 18 Jun 2013 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: LiveMap develops augmented reality motorcycle helmet]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/18/livemap-develops-augmented-reality-motorcycle-helmet/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/18/livemap-develops-augmented-reality-motorcycle-helmet/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/18/livemap-develops-augmented-reality-motorcycle-helmet/#commentsFiled under: , ,

LiveMap Helmet

While mobile navigation for cars has evolved into a staple, in-cabin feature, motorcyclists have been stuck with paper maps and aftermarket solutions for years. A new Russian company is out to change that with a helmet that boasts integrated nav. LiveMap uses a microphone, light sensor, ear phone and micro display to convey pertinent travel information in full color that the rider can control using voice commands. The system works just like the heads up display found in modern fighter jets.

The system projects directions in the center of the rider's visor rather than in the upper right hand corner as with Google Glass. The team behind the development says this actually safer since the light sensor keeps the directions transparent no matter what the time of day. It also allows the rider to stay focused on what's ahead of the bike. An integrated gyroscope and digital compass keeps the projection oriented correctly even as the user tilts his head or leans the bike. Very cool.

The LiveMap helmet is supposed to offer up to a day's worth of use thanks to a pair of lithium-ion batteries, though a USB charge plug can provide extra juice when necessary. Right now, LiveMap is sourcing funding through Indiegogo. The company is looking to raise $150,000 to create a working prototype. After that, production models could cost around $2,000. That's steep, but hopefully the cost could come down over additional generations. Check out the introductory video below for more information.

Continue reading LiveMap develops augmented reality motorcycle helmet

LiveMap develops augmented reality motorcycle helmet originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 18 Jun 2013 17:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>helmetlivemapmotorcycle helmetmotorcycle navigationnavnavigationTue, 18 Jun 2013 17:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: Lamborghini Cabrera spotted, ready to fill Gallardo shoes]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/18/lamborghini-cabrera-spotted-ready-to-fill-gallardo-shoes/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/18/lamborghini-cabrera-spotted-ready-to-fill-gallardo-shoes/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/18/lamborghini-cabrera-spotted-ready-to-fill-gallardo-shoes/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Lamborghini Cabrera

Facebook user Marchettino (already a minor YouTube celebrity for his supercars channel) spotted the successor to the Lamborghini Gallardo throne out and about on public streets and was kind enough to snap a few photos of the machine. Word has it that a concept car precursor to the newest supercar will bow at the upcoming Frankfurt Motor Show this September under the Cabrera name. As you've likely already heard, the model is said to ride on the second-generation Audi R8 platform, complete with a composite aluminum and carbon fiber construction to reduce weight as much as possible. How light will will the Cabrera be? Lamborghini is reportedly shooting for a curb weight of around 3,300 pounds.

Power will likely come from a massaged version of the 5.2-liter V10 in the current Gallardo. Expect around 600 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque.

The vehicle in these photos looks to have abandoned some of the Gallardo's angles in favor or more organic lines, though it's possible body cladding is hiding the car's true design. Murcielago SV-style sills and side air intakes serve up quite a bit of aggression and the quad exhaust looks properly menacing as well. We can't wait to see the finished product.

Lamborghini Cabrera spotted, ready to fill Gallardo shoes originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 18 Jun 2013 08:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gallardolamborghinilamborghini cabreralamborghini cabrera photoslamborghini cabrerar spy shotslamborghini gallardospy photosspy shotsTue, 18 Jun 2013 08:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Read This: Meet TVR's new owner and learn his plans for the future]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/16/meet-tvrs-new-owner-and-learn-his-plans-for-the-future/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/16/meet-tvrs-new-owner-and-learn-his-plans-for-the-future/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/16/meet-tvrs-new-owner-and-learn-his-plans-for-the-future/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

TVR Sagaris

It's hard not to be worried about the reborn TVR. The company's new owner, entrepreneur Les Edgar, recently sat down with PistonHeads to discuss his plans for the fabled brand. Unfortunately, Edgar was no less dodgy about the future of TVR in his latest interview than he has been in the past. Evasive on everything from what the TVR brand means to him to which of the company's cars he's owned in the past, the former video game developer is either the most cautious individual to ever get into the automotive manufacturing game or is woefully unprepared for his new undertaking.

When asked what's at the heart of TVR, Edgar responded, "I think it's the people that buy them. We're looking [for] a demographic that is probably different from what it was 15-20 years [ago]. We build cars that hopefully people want to buy, and they may not be the same type of people that bought them 10 years ago. At the base of it - the DNA - has got to be the same thing running through."

Right.

Edgar then went on to dance around the question of what that DNA is, exactly. You can check out the full interview by heading over to PistonHeads. We sincerely hope we're wrong about Edgar and his intentions for the brand, but the executive's early comments haven't quite passed our sniff test.

Meet TVR's new owner and learn his plans for the future originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 16 Jun 2013 12:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>les edgarles edgar interviewtvrSun, 16 Jun 2013 12:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Official: Bob Lutz, Jackie Stewart among Automotive Hall of Fame inductees]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/14/bob-lutz-jackie-stewart-among-automotive-hall-of-fame-inductees/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/14/bob-lutz-jackie-stewart-among-automotive-hall-of-fame-inductees/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/14/bob-lutz-jackie-stewart-among-automotive-hall-of-fame-inductees/#commentsFiled under: ,

Bob Lutz

Jackie StewartThe Automotive Hall of Fame has announced this year's inductees, and both Bob Lutz (above) and Jackie Stewart (right inset) are among the lucky handful of honorees. A total of ten individuals from automotive past and present are being inducted for 2013. Those include Robert Bamford and Lionel Martin, the duo who founded Aston Martin some 100 years ago, as well as David E. Cole, the founder of the Center for Automotive Research. Cole also served as the director of the Office for the Study of Automotive Transportation.

Bob Lutz likely needs no introduction. He's served as an executive with multiple automakers, but is most well-known for his time at both Chrysler and as General Motors vice chairman. Jackie Stewart, meanwhile, remains one of the world's top racing drivers. Having competed in Formula One, Can Am and nearly every other venue that pits two cars against each other or the clock, Stewart is a legend of motorsport.

The Automotive Hall of Fame is also giving the Distinguished Service Citation Award to four individuals, including Bo Anderson. Anderson is the president and CEO of Russia's GAZ Group and is largely responsible for helping turn the company around. Neil De Koker, founding president of the Original Equipment Suppliers Association will also receive the award as will James McElya. McElya helped steer Cooper-Standard through a difficult restructuring.

Bob Lutz, Jackie Stewart among Automotive Hall of Fame inductees originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 14 Jun 2013 07:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>automotive hall of fameautomotive hall of fame inducteesbob lutzjackie stewartFri, 14 Jun 2013 07:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: Motor Trend sits down with Warren Mosler to talk MT900]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/13/motor-trend-sits-down-with-warren-mosler-to-talk-mt900/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/13/motor-trend-sits-down-with-warren-mosler-to-talk-mt900/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/13/motor-trend-sits-down-with-warren-mosler-to-talk-mt900/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Mosler MT900

You've got to admire Warren Mosler. The guy's life-long love affair with composite-bodied vehicles began with his first car, a Volkswagen Rabbit. After seeing just what could happen when he pulled the running gear from the little VW and dropped it into a much more aerodynamic, lighter body, Mosler became obsessed with pushing composite construction forward. His first effort, the Consulier GTP was the first production car in the world with no structural metal, and served up supercar-besting grip, acceleration, braking and safety in the mid '80s.

Motor Trend recently sat down with Mosler for a nice long chat about his inspirations, where he's been and how he wound up building the MT900. The clip shows off plenty of Mosler designs, from his bizarre fuel efficient vans to his incredible Consulier GTP race cars and the luscious MT900. You can watch the full interview below for yourself.

Continue reading Motor Trend sits down with Warren Mosler to talk MT900

Motor Trend sits down with Warren Mosler to talk MT900 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 13 Jun 2013 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>moslermosler consulier gtpmosler mt900warren moslerThu, 13 Jun 2013 12:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Does the future of Fiat-Chrysler include Dodge?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/13/does-the-future-of-fiat-chrysler-include-dodge/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/13/does-the-future-of-fiat-chrysler-include-dodge/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/13/does-the-future-of-fiat-chrysler-include-dodge/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Dodge Emblem

Ward's Auto reports the future of Dodge is looking uncertain. Fiat has more or less laid out its game plan for the next few years, and while the Chrysler, Fiat and Jeep lines are set to receive plenty of love, Dodge isn't so lucky. Fiat has already hobbled Dodge significantly by splitting off the brand's trucks into a separate Ram line.

Ward's says that after the Avenger rides off into the sunset early next year, Fiat-Chrysler won't replace the model, leaving a gaping midsize hole in the Dodge lineup. The report also cites unnamed sources as saying that at least two other current Dodge products will move to the Chrysler line.

One of those could very well be the Grand Caravan. Chrysler has already made it clear that it plans to trim redundancy between its minivan offerings, but it has yet to clarify which other vehicle could sail under the Chrysler banner moving forward. Either way, such changes to the product line would theoretically leave Dodge with just four models.

Does the future of Fiat-Chrysler include Dodge? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 13 Jun 2013 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chryslerdodgefiatfuture of dodgeThu, 13 Jun 2013 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: NA auto output to reach 11-year peak]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/13/na-auto-output-to-reach-11-year-peak/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/13/na-auto-output-to-reach-11-year-peak/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/13/na-auto-output-to-reach-11-year-peak/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Nissan plant production

According to Automotive News, automakers are expected to manufacture 16 million light vehicles in North America in 2013. That's up 500,000 units from last year and marks the largest number since 2002. The prediction comes courtesy of LMC Automotive and IHS Automotive, which point to the improving US economy as a bellwether for total production. LMC Automotive says North America will produce 16 million vehicles while IHS has a slightly more optimistic forecast of 16.1 million units. A total of seven automakers are slated to increase production on the continent this year. Nissan is set to see the largest jump at 20 percent over last year.

Volkswagen, meanwhile, is one of the only manufacturers predicted to scale back production. Analysts expect the German company's output to fall by 23 percent to 170,000 units, thanks in part to slow demand for the Volkswagen Passat and Jetta.

NA auto output to reach 11-year peak originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 13 Jun 2013 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>manufacturingnissannorth americaproductionvolkswagenThu, 13 Jun 2013 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Quick Spin: 2013 BMW M6 Coupe [UPDATE]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/12/2013-bmw-m6-coupe-quick-spin-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/12/2013-bmw-m6-coupe-quick-spin-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/12/2013-bmw-m6-coupe-quick-spin-review/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The Act And The Exclamation

2013 BMW M6

The 2013 BMW M6 is a rolling obscenity - one that begins with the capital letter "F." It is both the act and the exclamation, the curse and the encouragement. It courts no logic. It is all want and no need, and it is unbecoming of the BMW roundel. Whereas the brand's products once strove to unite man and machine in a duet of blissful performance, the M6 seems built solely to stand between the driver and the road. You are very clearly in its way every second you're behind the wheel, slowing it down and generally being the Monday morning to its two-day trance festival. It's clear this car is very fast, but it has no interest in making you fast in the way that the M3 or even the M5 are wont to do.

But somehow, all that doesn't stop the car from stoking every last lick of lust in your gut. A 560-horsepower twin-turbocharged V8 will do that for you.

Driving Notes
  • I think this may very well be the most beautiful machine in the BMW stable right now. The fascia, wheels and carbon fiber roof of the M line all help sharpen the standard 6 Series nicely, turning the car from an awkward bubble into a lithe and purposeful grand tourer. It snatches eyeballs like a cleptomaniac Doctor Frankenstein at the optometrist's office: with both purpose and glee.
  • The real magic of this car is at its heart: a 4.4-liter turbocharged V8 with 560 horsepower 500 pound-feet of torque. The thrust out of this engine is fiendish in its delivery, and you can't help but get the sense that the only thing keeping this powerplant from leaping out of the coupe's nose and terrorizing the countryside is you. The car strains against the brake pedal at every stop light, and the exhaust burbles and pops in some of our favorite anti-social tones. It is the rolling embodiment of Skynet.
  • Our tester came with a seven-speed double-clutch transmission. The logic can be switched between "sane" and "why am I in the next county?" There is no middle ground, but the paddle shifters feel great. The shift lever, meanwhile, might as well have been imported from another planet. In the future. In an alternate dimension. It's that counterintuitive.
  • Speaking of switches, there are independent controls for the shift logic, dampers and steering. You can save your presets by plowing through the iDrive system or by pressing and holding a button on the steering wheel, but it all feels like an unnecessary added step. The M6 doesn't simply remember which settings the driver preferred from one jaunt to the next. The result is a car that's in your way more often than not. It's either the best or worst first world problem in the history of our species.
  • BMW didn't hold back with the carbon fiber on this machine. Our tester came with a composite roof and carbon-fiber trim indoors. It originally wore the optional carbon ceramic brakes as well, but some yokel had already roasted the rotors off of the car. BMW went back with steel. At $8,700 for the option, we don't blame them.
  • This all sounds like a lot of bellyaching, but don't misunderstand. There are only a handful of cars out there that can evoke the sort of emotion this one does, and most of them carry price tags more than double the $123,345 of our tester. That's not saying it's worth the coin, but the car has its place.
UPDATE: BMW informs us the carbon-ceramic brake option was removed due to the fact that that this particular model was manufactured in 2012. The carbon-ceramic rotors were only available on models built in 2013. While the vehicle's monroney showed the option at $8,700, BMW says the brakes are available for $9,250, but are covered under the company's four-year, 50,000 mile maintenance program.

2013 BMW M6 Coupe [UPDATE] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 12 Jun 2013 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 bmw m6bmwbmw m6quick spinquickspinWed, 12 Jun 2013 14:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: Gas or Diesel? Xcar asks which is better in Audi's A6]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/12/gas-or-diesel-xcar-asks-which-is-better-in-audis-a6/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/12/gas-or-diesel-xcar-asks-which-is-better-in-audis-a6/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/12/gas-or-diesel-xcar-asks-which-is-better-in-audis-a6/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

XCAR host stands with diesel and gas Audi A6 models - video screencap

You know our answer. While gasoline certainly holds a special place in our hearts, it's difficult to deny the efficiency and power available from diesel fuel. XCAR recently added to their impressive list of videos by putting two Audi A6 models to the test: one with the company's stalwart supercharged 3.0-liter V6 under the hood and another powered by the company's twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter diesel V6. Our host finds plenty to love in both engines, and while the video ultimately concedes that most performance-minded buyers will still wind up with the gasoline mill in their personal vehicle, the clip makes a good case for the diesel's potent thrust and superb fuel economy.

Of course, that's in an imaginary world where all engines and fuels share similar costs. Here in the US, it's a bit harder to justify the steep entry fee for a diesel engine. Throw in how expensive diesel fuel can be, and the argument becomes even more tenuous. Still, those issues don't dampen our enthusiasm for the beautifully shot video below. Check it out.

Continue reading Gas or Diesel? Xcar asks which is better in Audi's A6

Gas or Diesel? Xcar asks which is better in Audi's A6 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 12 Jun 2013 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 audi a6audi a6audi a6 tdidieselgasolinetdivideoxcarWed, 12 Jun 2013 12:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: More than 50% of NY drivers fail basic road test]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/11/more-than-50-of-ny-drivers-fail-basic-road-test/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/11/more-than-50-of-ny-drivers-fail-basic-road-test/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/11/more-than-50-of-ny-drivers-fail-basic-road-test/#commentsFiled under: ,

Crazed teenage girl motorist behind the wheel

A new analysis of data from New York State has revealed that less than half of those who took a driving test in New York City last year passed the on-road exam. According to the New York Daily News, a total of 46 percent of the 181,196 individuals who took the basic road test in 2012 passed the assessment, down from 52 percent the year prior. Not surprisingly, the American Automobile Association and driving school owners point to the fact that schools have cut driver's education in an attempt to save money as the main culprit behind the slide. Ill-qualified family members often step in to fill the educational gap, and the result is young drivers who aren't properly prepared for a road test.

In New York, those applying for a driver's license are required to first get a learner's permit and complete a five-hour driving course. New drivers under the age of 18 must complete 50 hours of driving practice while supervised by a licensed driver. The state requires 15 of those hours to be at night.

More than 50% of NY drivers fail basic road test originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 11 Jun 2013 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>drivers licensedriving testnew york citynew york drivers fail driving testnew york statetestTue, 11 Jun 2013 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Rent-a-tire business inflating]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/11/rent-a-tire-business-inflating/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/11/rent-a-tire-business-inflating/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/11/rent-a-tire-business-inflating/#commentsFiled under:

Car tires stacked creatively

The Los Angeles Times is reporting that America's tire rental business is growing. Companies that previously specialized in rent-to-own wheels are now shifting their business to provide low-income drivers with rent-to-own tires. Customers can pay as little as $14 per month for new rubber, but may wind up paying as much as four times the retail price by the time all's said and done. While the first rent-to-own wheel and tire dealer surfaced in the mid '90s, the business has been expanding.

Part of the issue is that tire prices have increased dramatically in recent years - according to the story, trade publication Modern Tire Dealer says that the average price of a passenger car tire increased some 57 percent between 2006 and 2012. The boom in business is also being attributed to statistics that say that average household income has fallen by more than five percent since 2009, and the number of individuals with severely damaged credit has jumped to 35 percent since then. Rent-to-own businesses often don't require a credit check, ask for relatively small down payments and allow customers to return merchandise at any time without penalty. All told, the rent-to-own market in the US is an $8.5 billion per year business, and while tires make up a tiny slice of that total figure, the business is growing.

Meanwhile, customers who miss payments can face aggressive lenders. Since the rent-to-own businesses technically own the property until the last payment is made, some states place failure to pay on the same level as theft, which can lead to police involvement. As The Los Angeles Times reports, RimTyme, which operates in North Carolina, Virginia and Georgia, makes as many as three repossessions per week.

Rent-a-tire business inflating originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 11 Jun 2013 18:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bad creditno creditpoor creditrent to ownrent to own tiresrimtymetire salestiresTue, 11 Jun 2013 18:29:00 EST