Autoblog Police/Emergency http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog Police/Emergency http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/favicon-v5.png 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/ Dan Roth, Zach Bowman and Jeff RossThe podcast by the people who obsessively cover the auto industry. <![CDATA[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/#comments Filed 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 cars Wed, 19 Jun 2013 11:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20626755/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20626755/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/06/19/carbon-motors-officially-files-for-bankruptcy-lawsuits-follow/20626755/article-detail.xml 20626755 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/carbon-motors-e7-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/carbon-motors-e7-628.jpg <![CDATA[Emissions equipment causes DC ambulance to shut down, patient dies]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/03/emissions-equipment-causes-dc-ambulance-to-shut-down-patient-di/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/03/emissions-equipment-causes-dc-ambulance-to-shut-down-patient-di/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/03/emissions-equipment-causes-dc-ambulance-to-shut-down-patient-di/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

Ambulance diesel exhaust fluid warning - video screencap

Every minute matters when life is on the line. That's why ambulances exist and why we all (well, most of us, anyway) pull over when we see their flashing lights and hear sirens coming our way. And it's also why ambulances need to be as reliable as possible, with maintenance kept up so that they are in perfect working order at all times.

Of course, modern vehicles are extremely complicated pieces of equipment, and sometimes new technologies catch operators by surprise. Such is the case with recent emissions equipment designed to reduce the amount of harmful pollutants emitted by diesel engines, as they have the power to bring the vehicle to a grinding halt if not properly serviced.

A grinding halt is exactly what one ambulance in the Washington, DC area came to recently while carrying a 34-year-old man to the hospital. According to Firefighters Union President Ed Smith, a four-level warning system should have let operators know the ambulance was low on diesel exhaust fluid (read: urea), but the system apparently did not function as designed. The US Environmental Protection Agency does not require emergency vehicles to be equipped with engine shutdown systems, according to this PDF, but it would appear some ambulances have not been retrofitted with the proper modifications to keep them running.

Sadly, the critically injured patient died at the hospital. The ambulance had come to a stop on a highway, and a second ambulance had to be dispatched to pick up the man being transported, adding between five and seven minutes to his trip to the hospital. The incident is currently being investigated. Click here to read more about diesel exhaust fluid and its role in reducing emissions, and scroll down below to watch a video report from WUSA9, a local news station.

Continue reading Emissions equipment causes DC ambulance to shut down, patient dies

Emissions equipment causes DC ambulance to shut down, patient dies originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 03 Jun 2013 13:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> ambulanceambulance safetydiesel ambulancediesel exhaust fluiddiesel fluidureaurea injectionvideowashington dc Mon, 03 Jun 2013 13:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20596982/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20596982/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/06/03/emissions-equipment-causes-dc-ambulance-to-shut-down-patient-di/20596982/article-detail.xml 20596982 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/diesel-ambulance_thumbnail.png http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/diesel-ambulance.png <![CDATA[How Mercedes is using QR codes to help accident victims]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/24/how-mercedes-is-using-qr-codes-to-help-accident-victims/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/24/how-mercedes-is-using-qr-codes-to-help-accident-victims/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/24/how-mercedes-is-using-qr-codes-to-help-accident-victims/#comments Filed under: , ,

Mercedes-Benz Rescue Sheet QR Code

Mercedes-Benz is working on a system that may help emergency workers quickly and safely rescue trapped occupants in wrecked vehicles. The system pairs rescue sheets that show firefighters, police and paramedics information on exactly how and where to use rescue sheers to extract trapped passengers, the location of major hydraulic lines, air bags and electrical cables as well as other important vehicle data with QR codes. Using two stickers with the codes prominently displayed, rescue workers can scan the code and instantly pull up the necessary information quickly with an internet connection. The plan could reduce rescue times and help save lives.

Currently, rescue workers have to rely on hard copy rescue sheets or must look up the information online, assuming the sheets are available at all. Mercedes-Benz has waived the right to patent the system in the hope that other automakers will take advantage of the technology. You can read the full press release below for more information.

Continue reading How Mercedes is using QR codes to help accident victims

How Mercedes is using QR codes to help accident victims originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 24 May 2013 08:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> emergencyfirefightermercedesmercedes safety sheet qr codepoliceqr codesafetysafety sheet Fri, 24 May 2013 08:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20581419/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20581419/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/24/how-mercedes-is-using-qr-codes-to-help-accident-victims/20581419/article-detail.xml 20581419 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/mb-qr-code-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/mb-qr-code-628.jpg <![CDATA[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/#comments Filed 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 veyronpolice Sat, 18 May 2013 13:05:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20574621/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20574621/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/18/of-course-dubai-police-add-bugatti-veyron-to-fleet/20574621/article-detail.xml 20574621 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/dubai-police-bugatti-veyron_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/dubai-police-bugatti-veyron.jpg <![CDATA[Portland police pursuit quack down caught on dash cam]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/portland-police-pursuit-quack-up-caught-on-dash-cam/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/portland-police-pursuit-quack-up-caught-on-dash-cam/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/portland-police-pursuit-quack-up-caught-on-dash-cam/#comments Filed under: , , , ,



One driver in Portland, OR should make a hefty donation to his or her local wildlife conservation group after a family of ducks got the person out of a speeding ticket. A Portland police officer clocked a car going 52 miles per hour in a 35-mph zone, but when the officer went to pursue the speeder, a mother duck and her two ducklings ran some unintended interference.

Rather than just going around the ducks, the officer blocks the street to usher the waterfowl from the road. While the speeder got away, it's nice to see some compassion from the authorities. Besides, the gesture might've saved more than just the ducks from an unfortunate accident on the rain-slicked road. Scroll down to watch the video taken from the patrol car's dash cam.

Continue reading Portland police pursuit quack down caught on dash cam

Portland police pursuit quack down caught on dash cam originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 17 May 2013 16:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> dash camdash camedashcamduckmallard duckpolicepolice campolice chaseportland policespeeding ticketvideo Fri, 17 May 2013 16:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20573938/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20573938/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/17/portland-police-pursuit-quack-up-caught-on-dash-cam/20573938/article-detail.xml 20573938 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/police-chase-ducks_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/police-chase-ducks.jpg <![CDATA[2014 BMW M5 facelift shows up online]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/14/2014-bmw-m5-facelift-shows-up-online/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/14/2014-bmw-m5-facelift-shows-up-online/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/14/2014-bmw-m5-facelift-shows-up-online/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

2014 BMW M5 leaked image - front three-quarter, blue

Is it that time already? Like its predecessors, the current BMW M5 has been endangering US licenses since it first went on sale here in 2012, but its design became a known quantity back at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show. Apparently that also means that the F10 generation has already grown tired enough to the "Must Have Latest Set" who can afford these sorts of super saloons that a facelift is in order.

If these leaked images sourced from Autocar are anything to go by, BMW stylists have used a predictably light hand to rework their hottest 5 Series, with a revised grille that echoes the M6 along with modestly resculpted headlamps. The rear end appears wholly unaltered. Interior changes gleaned from a look at the cabin photos include an updated touchpad-equipped iDrive controller and a new steering wheel cribbed from the M6.

No new word on changes to the 4.4-liter, twin-turbo V8 powertrain, but in late April, we heard that BMW was readying new competition packages for the M5 and M6. The packages are said to include 15 more horsepower, revised suspension and steering, along with new wheels and blackened exhaust tips. Given that BMW is known for habitually underrating its cars' horsepower outputs (particularly its M models) we can't help but wonder if its engineers will need to do anything other than wave a magic wand to corral those extra ponies underhood...

2014 BMW M5 facelift shows up online originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 14 May 2013 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2014 bmw 5 series2014 bmw m5bmwbmw 5 seriesbmw m5 Tue, 14 May 2013 18:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20568468/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20568468/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/14/2014-bmw-m5-facelift-shows-up-online/20568468/article-detail.xml 20568468 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2014-bmw-m5-leak-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2014-bmw-m5-leak-628.jpg <![CDATA[Translogic takes post-mortem spin in Carbon Motors E7 police car]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/30/translogic-takes-post-mortem-spin-in-carbon-motors-e7-police-car/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/30/translogic-takes-post-mortem-spin-in-carbon-motors-e7-police-car/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/30/translogic-takes-post-mortem-spin-in-carbon-motors-e7-police-car/#comments Filed under: , , ,

Carbon Motors E7 on Translogic

It's a shame Carbon Motors seems to be dead on arrival. The company's E7 Police Cruiser is a purpose-built law enforcement vehicle with plenty of well-executed innovations. Rather than slather a civilian vehicle in gear and call it a day, the company engineered the E7 with law enforcement in mind from the very beginning.

Unfortunately, funding dried up before the company could really get its legs under it, and as a result, Carbon Motors has shuttered the E7 program. Before that happened, our friends at Translogic got the chance to ride along in a fully functional version of the cruiser.

Carbon Motors Vice President Stacy Dean Stephens took the time to show off all of the impressive technology available on the E7, from license plate recognition software to infrared cameras, extensive speed detection hardware and even the unique front seats built to accommodate an officer's utility belt. Check out the video below for yourself.

Continue reading Translogic takes post-mortem spin in Carbon Motors E7 police car

Translogic takes post-mortem spin in Carbon Motors E7 police car originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 30 Apr 2013 16:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> carbon motorscarbon motors e7carbon motors e7 police cruiserpolicetranslogic Tue, 30 Apr 2013 16:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20552964/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20552964/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/30/translogic-takes-post-mortem-spin-in-carbon-motors-e7-police-car/20552964/article-detail.xml 20552964 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/carbon-motors-e7-translogic-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/carbon-motors-e7-translogic-628.jpg <![CDATA[Police using 43-year-old Plymouth Satellite to patrol Seattle streets [w/video]]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/29/police-using-43-year-old-plymouth-satellite-to-patrol-seattle-st/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/29/police-using-43-year-old-plymouth-satellite-to-patrol-seattle-st/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/29/police-using-43-year-old-plymouth-satellite-to-patrol-seattle-st/#comments Filed under: , , , ,



It's like throwback uniform days at the ballpark, only this happens every day and it's at the police station. A story and video by the Associated Press takes a look at Seattle police officer Jim Ritter and his 1970 Plymouth Satellite police cruiser (the Satellite was renamed Fury in 1975) - and yes, that's him above with the car, Ritter in his period-correct police uniform. As you might guess, this is one of those community relations efforts, but it's no show pony - the Satellite is Ritter's daily driver and he'll ride in convey with Crown Victorias to answer any kind of police call.

Ritter started the Seattle Metropolitan Police Museum 15 years ago, and there are 14 cars in its collection of automobiles. This one was offered by a retired Seattle city worker living in Nebraska, and after it was determined that it was indeed part of the King County Police Department in 1970, the museum restored it with the help of local businesses. It hasn't been made modern, though - it's got no air conditioning, no computer, and 43-year-old ride quality.

Nonetheless, as a woman remarks in the video below, it's "filthy," which means "awesome." You can read even more about it over on KOMO News.

Continue reading Police using 43-year-old Plymouth Satellite to patrol Seattle streets [w/video]

Police using 43-year-old Plymouth Satellite to patrol Seattle streets [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 29 Apr 2013 16:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 1970 plymouth satellitejim ritterplymouthplymouth satellitepoliceseattleseattle police departmentvideoyoutube Mon, 29 Apr 2013 16:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20552124/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20552124/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/29/police-using-43-year-old-plymouth-satellite-to-patrol-seattle-st/20552124/article-detail.xml 20552124 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/1970-plymouth-satellite-police-cruiser-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/1970-plymouth-satellite-police-cruiser-628.jpg <![CDATA[Florida cop under investigation for pedestrian hit-and-run caught on camera]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/16/florida-cop-under-investigation-for-pedestrian-hit-and-run-caugh/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/16/florida-cop-under-investigation-for-pedestrian-hit-and-run-caugh/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/16/florida-cop-under-investigation-for-pedestrian-hit-and-run-caugh/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

Police Officer Strikes Pedestrian - traffic camera screencap

We can't say for certain, but we imagine that "don't run down pedestrians" is somewhere near the top of every police officer's daily to-do list. One patrolman in Orlando seems to have missed that memo.

Three months ago, officer Michael Fiorentino-Tyburski struck 36-year-old Tetris Nunn as he was attempting to cross the street at a crosswalk. The policeman exited the vehicle, asked Nunn if he was harmed, blamed him for being in the street against the signal and left after a few minutes. Nunn subsequently called 911 to report being hit, and later, a witness called 911 saying Nunn needed medical attention, whereupon the responding officers found him at fault for being in the road. The entire incident was captured on a traffic camera.

Fiorentino-Tyburski has been charged with leaving the scene of an accident, but the Orlando Police Department is allowing the officer to continue his patrols as the investigation continues. You can watch a local WFTV video news report on the incident below for more information.

Continue reading Florida cop under investigation for pedestrian hit-and-run caught on camera

Florida cop under investigation for pedestrian hit-and-run caught on camera originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 16 Apr 2013 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> michael fiorentino-tyburskiorlandoorlando policeorlando police departmentpedestrianpolice officer hits pedestriantetris nunntraffic cameravideo Tue, 16 Apr 2013 12:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20542492/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20542492/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/16/florida-cop-under-investigation-for-pedestrian-hit-and-run-caugh/20542492/article-detail.xml 20542492 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/police-officer-strikes-pedestrian-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/police-officer-strikes-pedestrian-628.jpg <![CDATA[Dubai police welcome Lamborghini Aventador cop car]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/11/dubai-police-add-lamborghini-aventador-to-cop-car-fleet/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/11/dubai-police-add-lamborghini-aventador-to-cop-car-fleet/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/11/dubai-police-add-lamborghini-aventador-to-cop-car-fleet/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,



There is a long history of law enforcement adding supercars to their police cruiser fleets. The latest comes from a likely place, Dubai, where one-upping the rest of the world in conspicuous consumption has become a national point of pride.

The Dubai police force announced yesterday that they've added a Lamborghini Aventador to their fleet, the Italian supercar capping a broader upgrade to their selection of cruisers that also reportedly includes new examples of the Chevy Camaro.

The 700-horsepower Aventador has a starting price in the US of nearly $400,000 and can reach speeds up to 217 miles per hour. Reports, however, say that the Dubai police force won't be using the car's 0-60 performance of 3.9 seconds to catch any crooks, but rather that the supercar will be used in tourist areas to impress foreign travelers.

The announcement of the car's arrival was made via the police force's Twitter account with a tweet that read "Latest #Dubai_Police patrols, now at your service," and was accompanied by an image of the new law-enforcement-liveried Aventador driving outside the Dubai Mall, which happens to be the world's biggest shopping center.

Dubai certainly isn't the first to add a supercar to its cruiser fleet, nor is it even the first to choose a Lamborghini. The most famous Lamborghini cop car is perhaps the Gallardo LP560-4 used by the Italian State Police. The blue-and-white bringer of justice was even immortalized with its own official Lego set.

Dubai police welcome Lamborghini Aventador cop car originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 11 Apr 2013 11:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> dubaidubai policelamborghinilamborghini aventadorlamborghini police car Thu, 11 Apr 2013 11:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20537550/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20537550/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/11/dubai-police-add-lamborghini-aventador-to-cop-car-fleet/20537550/article-detail.xml 20537550 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/dubai-police-lamborghini-aventador_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/dubai-police-lamborghini-aventador.jpg <![CDATA[Carbon Motors pulls out of Indiana plant, future uncertain]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/01/carbon-motors-pulls-out-of-indiana-plant-future-uncertain/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/01/carbon-motors-pulls-out-of-indiana-plant-future-uncertain/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/01/carbon-motors-pulls-out-of-indiana-plant-future-uncertain/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

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

Three years ago, Carbon Motors chose one corner of a shuttered Visteon plant in Connersville, Indiana as the location to build its diesel-powered E7 dedicated police cruiser. Carbon intended to invest $350 million to start production, providing 1,500 jobs at the same time. That investment, however, relied the US Department of Energy approving a $310-million loan to Carbon through the Advanced Technology Vehicles Manufacturing Loan Program, a loan that was ultimately denied.

Without that money, the arrival of the E7 and Connersville's return to manufacturing have apparently been put on hold. According to the Indianapolis Business Journal, Carbon's plant development officer wrote the mayor of the city, Leonard Urban, to tell him that he had resigned, and all traces of Carbon Motors have been removed from the plant, including Carbon Drive that leads to it. Urban said he has no idea what the company's plans are, and Carbon hasn't commented.

Carbon Motors pulls out of Indiana plant, future uncertain originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 01 Apr 2013 14:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> carbon motorscarbon motors e7carbon motors indianaconnersvilleconnorsvilledepartment of energydoe loanse7indiana Mon, 01 Apr 2013 14:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20524743/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20524743/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/01/carbon-motors-pulls-out-of-indiana-plant-future-uncertain/20524743/article-detail.xml 20524743 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/carbonmotorse7indiana_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/carbonmotorse7indiana.jpg <![CDATA[Wealthy Russians hiring ambulances to cut through Moscow traffic]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/31/wealthy-russians-hiring-ambulances-to-cut-through-moscow-traffic/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/31/wealthy-russians-hiring-ambulances-to-cut-through-moscow-traffic/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/31/wealthy-russians-hiring-ambulances-to-cut-through-moscow-traffic/#comments Filed under: , ,

Ambulance in Moscow

We're not sure how widespread the practice is, but the option is apparently out there: Russian police have discovered companies on the Internet offering rides in "ambulance-taxis" through notoriously bad Moscow traffic. For roughly 6,000 rubles per hour - about $193 US, which doesn't sound like much for a wealthy Russian - the 'customer' will get to cut through gridlock in an ambulance with flashing lights and the proper paint scheme outside but a refitted, leather-lined interior.

Police say they've already stopped one ambulance with a "strange" driver that was found to have a bunch of people in civilian clothing in the back. The National Post reports that police have been told to keep an eye on the emergency-looking vehicles and to make sure they're actually being used for emergencies, which would appear to mean they're going to be tailing and perhaps stopping ambulances that are actually in the middle of emergency services. And that can't be good for anyone.

Wealthy Russians hiring ambulances to cut through Moscow traffic originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 31 Mar 2013 17:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> ambulancepolicerichrussiarussianwealthy Sun, 31 Mar 2013 17:03:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20523761/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20523761/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/31/wealthy-russians-hiring-ambulances-to-cut-through-moscow-traffic/20523761/article-detail.xml 20523761 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/russian-ambulance_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/russian-ambulance.jpg <![CDATA[Nissan NV200 finds new work as ambulance, Gibson guitar repair truck]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/28/nissan-nv200-gibson-guitar-new-york-2013/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/28/nissan-nv200-gibson-guitar-new-york-2013/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/28/nissan-nv200-gibson-guitar-new-york-2013/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

Gibson NV200 Mobile Repair & Restoration Van

We live in a world now where not every police cruiser and taxi is a Ford Crown Victoria, not every executive car is a Lincoln Town Car and not every ambulance is based on a Ford Econoline van. Vehicles like the new Nissan NV200 are making inroads into the service, livery and emergency vehicle markets, and we've got a couple cases in point to share.

The first one is a fleet of 30 new ambulances based on the heavier-duty NV2500 chassis. They are entering the Mexican Red Cross fleet of emergency vehicles this year after performing well in pilot tests last year. The Mexican Red Cross says it receives 1,200,000 ambulance service requests per year, so the mettle of these new machines will be tested in a hurry.

The second example is less useful for life-saving, but may save a guitar from going to the scrap heap. Called the Gibson NV200 Mobile Repair & Restoration Van, it can take the services of an authorized Gibson rep anywhere they're needed to repair or restore an axe in need. The van features a whole aesthetic designed to evoke the classic Gibson look, with wood veneer and shades of brown and black used throughout. There's a guitar rack that holds four instruments, a sliding 56-inch long repair table, toolbox, genuine Gibson stools and a sound system by Gibson Pro Audio.

The Gibson van will debut this week at the New York Auto Show, and we wouldn't be surprised to see more collaborations like this between these two companies in the future, as they're both local to Tennessee. Feel free to learn more in the press release down below.

Continue reading Nissan NV200 finds new work as ambulance, Gibson guitar repair truck

Nissan NV200 finds new work as ambulance, Gibson guitar repair truck originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 28 Mar 2013 10:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 new york auto showgibsonnew yorknew york auto shownissannissan nvnissan nv ambulancenissan nv200nissan nv200 gibson mobile repair vannissan nv250 Thu, 28 Mar 2013 10:33:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20518329/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20518329/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/28/nissan-nv200-gibson-guitar-new-york-2013/20518329/article-detail.xml 20518329 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/nissan-gibson-nv200-guitar-van_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/nissan-gibson-nv200-guitar-van.jpg <![CDATA[Check out these safe new ways police can stop criminals in their tracks]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/08/check-out-these-safe-new-ways-police-can-stop-criminals-in-their/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/08/check-out-these-safe-new-ways-police-can-stop-criminals-in-their/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/08/check-out-these-safe-new-ways-police-can-stop-criminals-in-their/#comments Filed under: , , ,



We've all seen police chases where officers have to throw spike strips into the roadway, but an Arizona-based company called Pacific Scientific has created some new tools to stop bad guys without putting any officers in harm's way. Both the Pit-BUL (Ballistic Undercarriage Lanyard) and the NightHawk are innovative devices designed to quickly, safely and easily disable a vehicle that is either attempting to run from police or enter a restricted area.

The coolest of the two is the Pit-BUL, which looks like a conventional speed bump but can deploy a net, as seen above, that almost immediately disables vehicles running over it. Designed more to protect an established position such as check point, border crossing or a military base entrance, this device works by using spikes attached to a large netting to lock up the front wheels. Each Pit-BUL costs up to $29,000, and since the nets are only useable for one application, additional net kits cost as much as $3,000.

As more of a mobile tool, the NightHawk is a deployable spike strip that can operate remotely to keep officers out of danger. When deployed, a beanbag-like projectile is fired from the container and carries with it the spike strip. After the intended vehicle has run over it, an internal motor can retract the strip so other vehicles don't accidently get flat tires.

Scroll down to watch both devices in action.

Continue reading Check out these safe new ways police can stop criminals in their tracks

Check out these safe new ways police can stop criminals in their tracks originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 08 Mar 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> immobilizernighthawkpacific scientificpolicepolice chase videopolicechasevideospike stripstop stickstop sticksvehicle arresting technologyvehicle immobilizationvideo Fri, 08 Mar 2013 20:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20495071/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20495071/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/08/check-out-these-safe-new-ways-police-can-stop-criminals-in-their/20495071/article-detail.xml 20495071 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/ballistic-undercarraige-lanyard_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/ballistic-undercarraige-lanyard.jpg <![CDATA[Chevrolet donates 300 vehicles damaged by Sandy to help train first responders]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/28/chevrolet-donates-300-vehicles-damaged-by-sandy-to-help-train-fi/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/28/chevrolet-donates-300-vehicles-damaged-by-sandy-to-help-train-fi/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/28/chevrolet-donates-300-vehicles-damaged-by-sandy-to-help-train-fi/#comments Filed under: ,



Super Storm Sandy took out a lot of automobiles in its path of destruction through the Northeast last October. The number surpassed 250,000 at last count, and a few of those were owned by Chevrolet - cars either sitting on dealership lots or waiting at port to be shipped off. Rendered unsellable by the water damage inflicted by Sandy, these vehicles were facing the crusher. But Chevy didn't send them there.

Instead, Chevy had a better idea: It will be donating 300 of these vehicles damaged by Sandy to help train first responders at Guardian Centers in Perry, GA. Chevy is the official automotive partner of Guardian Centers, which is an 830-acre facility that trains first responders in disaster preparedness. Junked cars are practically a consumable commodity there, where a full-size cityscape simulator gives trainees an entire urban center in which to train for all sorts of rescue operations and disaster scenarios.

Chevy says its particular vehicles will be used "in conjunction with role players for wide area searches, traffic congestion in emergency situations, counter terrorism, public order and mass casualty exercises." While grim scenarios all, we're certainly glad there are people out there preparing for the unexpected. While a zombie apocalypse isn't officially on the list of potential disasters to prepare for, when the virus hits, we'll be hot-footing it to Perry, GA to hang with these guys and gals.

Continue reading Chevrolet donates 300 vehicles damaged by Sandy to help train first responders

Chevrolet donates 300 vehicles damaged by Sandy to help train first responders originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 28 Feb 2013 17:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> chevroletcruzedonationguardian centerssandysuper storm sandy Thu, 28 Feb 2013 17:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20482977/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20482977/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/28/chevrolet-donates-300-vehicles-damaged-by-sandy-to-help-train-fi/20482977/article-detail.xml 20482977 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/chevrolet-first-responder-guardian-centers-05-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/chevrolet-first-responder-guardian-centers-05-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Notorious Ohio speed trap takes a hit as state laws change [w/video]]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/26/notorious-ohio-speed-trap-takes-a-hit-as-state-laws-change-w-vi/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/26/notorious-ohio-speed-trap-takes-a-hit-as-state-laws-change-w-vi/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/26/notorious-ohio-speed-trap-takes-a-hit-as-state-laws-change-w-vi/#comments Filed under: , ,

Officer writing traffic ticket

Anyone who's ever lived in the Midwest or driven through Ohio probably knows that the Buckeye State is legendary for the strict speed traps along its highways. After March 22, motorists driving along Interstate 71 near Cleveland will have a little more breathing room. That's because new state legislation will be shutting down eight of the mayor's courts in Ohio, including one in Linndale, the state's most notorious and controversial speed trap city. According to The Cleveland Leader, Linndale has but one exit and a quarter-mile section of the interstate inside its borders, yet "in 2011, Linndale police issued 4,000 traffic tickets, which accounted for over $400,000 in revenue." That's eight times as many citations per 100 citizens as any other place in Ohio. In fact, if you take a Google Street View look at I-71 as it runs through Linndale, you can see a police officer camped out in the shadows of a bridge.

The outgoing mayor's courts system allow a mayor-appointed city employee - not a judge - to preside over traffic cases, and all of the ticket revenue would then be funneled to the city. All of this for a small town with fewer than 200 residents. With the new law, Linndale police will still be able to patrol the Interstate and ticket speeders, but the revenue from fines will then be split with other government entities.

Check out a video from a local news station below.

Continue reading Notorious Ohio speed trap takes a hit as state laws change [w/video]

Notorious Ohio speed trap takes a hit as state laws change [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 26 Feb 2013 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> law enforcementlinndalelinndale speed trapmayors courtohio speed trapohio speed trapsspeed trapspeed trapsspeeding Tue, 26 Feb 2013 19:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20474974/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20474974/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/26/notorious-ohio-speed-trap-takes-a-hit-as-state-laws-change-w-vi/20474974/article-detail.xml 20474974 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/speeding-ticket-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/speeding-ticket-628.jpg <![CDATA[Watch a 12-year-old girl lead police on car chase in the Carolinas]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/21/watch-a-12-year-old-girl-lead-police-on-car-chase-in-the-carolin/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/21/watch-a-12-year-old-girl-lead-police-on-car-chase-in-the-carolin/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/21/watch-a-12-year-old-girl-lead-police-on-car-chase-in-the-carolin/#comments Filed under: , , ,

12-year-old girl leads police chase in stolen pickup - video screencap

A young girl led police on a lengthy low-speed chase through South Carolina and into Charlotte, North Carolina Monday night. Police say the 12-year-old girl fought with her father earlier in the evening and slipped from their South Carolina home after he fell asleep. From there, the pre-teen stole a pickup truck from the local VFW parking lot with the intent of driving to a relative's house in Fort Mill. Officers originally spotted the girl thinking she was a drunk driver and a chase ensued. The girl reached speeds of up to 70 mph and roamed Interstate 85 and 77 until police finally boxed her in and brought the scene to a stop.

No charges have been filed as of yet, though some reports indicate the girl was taken to a local hospital with a broken finger. It's unclear where that injury originates from. You can watch a local news report on the incident below for more information.

Continue reading Watch a 12-year-old girl lead police on car chase in the Carolinas

Watch a 12-year-old girl lead police on car chase in the Carolinas originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 21 Feb 2013 19:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 12 year old girl police chaselittle girl police chasepolice chasevideo Thu, 21 Feb 2013 19:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20472347/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20472347/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/21/watch-a-12-year-old-girl-lead-police-on-car-chase-in-the-carolin/20472347/article-detail.xml 20472347 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/stolen-truck-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/stolen-truck-628.jpg <![CDATA[Suit claims Utah trooper faked DUI arrests]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/03/suit-claims-utah-trooper-faked-dui-arrests/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/03/suit-claims-utah-trooper-faked-dui-arrests/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/03/suit-claims-utah-trooper-faked-dui-arrests/#comments Filed under: ,

Utah Highway Patrol Corporal Lisa SteedAn officer with the Utah Highway Patrol was relieved of duty after allegations surfaced that she falsely arrested more than 40 people for driving under the influence. The New York Times reports that a lawsuit stemming from the allegations was filed on December 14 in Salt Lake City's District Court. The suit accuses Corporal Lisa Steed of arresting drivers who weren't even drinking. In some cases, those arrested were people who claim they don't actually drink alcohol at all. Robert Sykes, one of the lawyers on the case, says in many cases, his clients were arrested even after passing a sobriety test.

In those cases, the charges were either dropped or reduced, but not until the accused had paid bail, had their vehicles impounded and racked up court fees in excess of $1,000.

According to the report, Steed had been a rising star within the UHP - she was even named trooper of the year in 2007. But she was fired in November amidst allegations of wrongdoing, though she is currently appealing her termination. Greg Skordas, Steed's lawyer, said the allegations were overblown, arguing that most of her arrests had stood up in court. Even so, Davis County attorney Troy Rawlings has said he will dismiss any case where Steed was the primary investigator or witness. Three years ago, a Highway Patrol sergeant reviewed 20 of Steed's marijuana-impairment arrests and found that the drivers had no traces of the drugs in their system.

Suit claims Utah trooper faked DUI arrests originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 Jan 2013 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> driving under the influencedrugged drivingduidwihighway patrollisa steedpolice misconductrobert sykessalt lake cityutah highway patrol Thu, 03 Jan 2013 14:15:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20415876/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20415876/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/03/suit-claims-utah-trooper-faked-dui-arrests/20415876/article-detail.xml 20415876 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/steed-250_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/steed-250.jpg <![CDATA[Carbon Motors strikes back with new police truck]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/18/carbon-motors-strikes-back-with-new-police-truck/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/18/carbon-motors-strikes-back-with-new-police-truck/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/18/carbon-motors-strikes-back-with-new-police-truck/#comments Filed under: ,



Carbon Motors couldn't have picked a better time to get into the police car business with the departure of the Ford Crown Victoria leaving the market wide open, but with its purpose-built E7 police sedan still a few more years away from production, the Indiana-based company decided to launch another vehicle for first responders. There was a big demand to get something out quick, and that something is the TX7. Designed to be more of a multipurpose vehicle, the TX7 is able to fill many roles making it a more practical expense for police agencies.

Unlike the E7, the TX7 is based on an existing powertrain and chassis, which allowed Carbon to develop the truck in less than eight months, but the company has not yet announced where it got these components from. What we do know is that a diesel V8 producing at least 300 horsepower and 660 pound-feet of torque is under the hood, and it is paired to a four-wheel-drive system and a six-speed automatic transmission.

Referred to as a "multi mission vehicle," the TX7 is designed to be more practical than a standard SUV police vehicle while costing hundreds of thousands of dollars less than a full assault-type SWAT truck. Carbon spokesman Stacy Dean Stephens said that most specialized police vehicles, like SWAT trucks, are not used on a frequent basis, but the TX7's 10-passenger capacity makes it a versatile vehicle for first responders.

"Command post vehicles and SWAT trucks can sit around unused for most of the year," Stephens said. "The TX7 can perform many different tasks while costing far less... including being a command post following natural disasters or acting as a prisoner transport."

The TX7 is not available with the heavier armor meaning it won't be able to be used in all extreme situations, but Stephens also said it's a much less imposing vehicle than a SWAT vehicle, which he says can "scare the community."

The Carbon TX7 is priced at $149,950, and with deliveries taking place during the second half of next year. Scroll down for the official press release.

Continue reading Carbon Motors strikes back with new police truck

Carbon Motors strikes back with new police truck originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 18 Dec 2012 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 carbon tx7carbon motorsemergency vehiclepolice carpolice trucktx7 Tue, 18 Dec 2012 16:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20405255/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20405255/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/18/carbon-motors-strikes-back-with-new-police-truck/20405255/article-detail.xml 20405255 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/2013-carbon-tx7_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/2013-carbon-tx7.jpg <![CDATA[Ford Falcon GT becomes Australia's most powerful police car ever]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/25/ford-falcon-gt-becomes-australias-most-power-police-car-ever/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/25/ford-falcon-gt-becomes-australias-most-power-police-car-ever/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/25/ford-falcon-gt-becomes-australias-most-power-police-car-ever/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,

Ford Falcon GT Police Car

The highway patrol in New South Wales, Australia has a new toy. As part of a community outreach program, it has added a Ford Falcon GT to its stable of pursuit vehicles. Though the car has been fitted with the lights, radio and speed-monitoring tech of its more common cruisers, officers intend use the car more to reach out to young motorsports fans than to run down baddies. So far, it seems to be working. Police took the sedan to the Sydney Dragway at Eastern Creek, and the supercharged Falcon GT had no problem drawing a crowd.

As you may recall, the Falcon GT is the most powerful vehicle to ever roll out of Ford Australia. The four-door boasts 450 horsepower from the factory, though the pursuit model makes closer to 536 hp thanks to tweaks like a new fuel map and free-flowing exhaust. Throw in all of the law-enforcement tech, and this car has a final price tag of over $105,000 at current conversion rates.

Ford Falcon GT becomes Australia's most powerful police car ever originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 25 Nov 2012 12:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> australiafordford falcon gthighway patrolhighway patrol ford faclon gtnew south wales Sun, 25 Nov 2012 12:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20387694/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20387694/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/25/ford-falcon-gt-becomes-australias-most-power-police-car-ever/20387694/article-detail.xml 20387694 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/ford-falcon-gt-police-car-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/ford-falcon-gt-police-car-628.jpg -1 2