Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[REPORT: BAIC/Koenigsegg may produce Saab 9-5 in China]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/07/report-baic-koenigsegg-may-produce-saab-9-5-in-china/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/07/report-baic-koenigsegg-may-produce-saab-9-5-in-china/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/07/report-baic-koenigsegg-may-produce-saab-9-5-in-china/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Beijing Automotive Industry Holding Co. (BAIC), announced as a minority partner in Koenigsegg's deal to purchase Saab from General Motors two months ago, plans to produce the Saab 9-5 on Chinese soil next year. The involvement of BAIC in the Saab transaction helps Koenigsegg close the deal and gives the Chinese company leverage to re-badge the previous-generation Saab 9-5 as its own or to simply expand the brand's existing reach within the country.

In September, Saab CEO Jan-Ake Jonsson told reporters he wanted to double the number of Chinese Saab dealers from 15 to 30, and that he had an interest in local Chinese production. "Beijing Auto is an opportunity for us to establish ourselves in the Chinese market with their experience," the CEO said. Under current plans, Saab imports all cars to China, where they're sold under the Shanghai General Motors network. Sales have been slow, but promoting the brand under the watchful eye of BAIC may help the brand gain traction in China's huge automotive market.

[Source: Gasgoo]

REPORT: BAIC/Koenigsegg may produce Saab 9-5 in China originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 07 Nov 2009 14:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>9-5BAICBAIC SaabBaicSaabBeijing Automotive Industry Holding CoBeijingAutomotiveIndustryHoldingCoBejing AutoBejingAutoChinaInventoryJan-akeJonssonKoenigseggManufacturingPartnershipPrevious generationPreviousGenerationProductionSaabShanghai GM networkShanghaiGmNetworkSat, 07 Nov 2009 14:26:00 EST<![CDATA[Triumph and TAG Heuer honor Steve McQueen with special Bonneville]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/07/triumph-and-tag-heuer-honor-steve-mcqueen-with-special-bonnevill/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/07/triumph-and-tag-heuer-honor-steve-mcqueen-with-special-bonnevill/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/07/triumph-and-tag-heuer-honor-steve-mcqueen-with-special-bonnevill/#commentsFiled under: ,

Triumph Bonneville Heuer - Click above for high-res image gallery

Triumph and TAG Heuer have joined forces to create a one-of-a-kind Bonneville Heuer motorcycle. Inspired by Steve McQueen and the Porsche 917 K that the famous actor, racer and motorcycle rider piloted in the classic film Le Mans, the Bonneville Heuer is painted up in the classic Gulf Oil blue and orange scheme and will be used for promotional purposes.

McQueen famously wore a Heuer Monaco watch in the aforementioned silver screen race drama and was a renowned Triumph enthusiast. Says Neil Morley, Triumph's Head of Brand Communications:
We are delighted to play our part in this exciting project. The Triumph Bonneville and TAG Heuer Monaco are both timeless masterpieces, celebrating their respective 50th and 40th anniversaries this year. We also both have a natural connection with Steve McQueen, who famously wore a Monaco watch in the film Le Mans and was renowned for his love of our bikes, making this a very natural collaboration.
As much as we'd like to tell you this will be an optional color choice for the production Bonneville, that's not currently the case. If you like it as much as we do, perhaps a phone call to your local Triumph dealer is in order.


Gallery: Triumph Bonneville Heuer


[Source: Triumph]

Continue reading Triumph and TAG Heuer honor Steve McQueen with special Bonneville

Triumph and TAG Heuer honor Steve McQueen with special Bonneville originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 07 Nov 2009 12:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bonnevillebonneville heuerBonnevilleHeuerheuersteve mcqueenSteveMcqueentag heuerTagHeuertriumphtriumph bonnevilletriumph bonneville heuerTriumphBonnevilleTriumphBonnevilleHeuerSat, 07 Nov 2009 12:22:00 EST<![CDATA[SEMA 2009: Gran Turismo Best in Show is the Trans-Cammer Mustang]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/07/sema-2009-gran-turismo-best-in-show-is-the-trans-cammer-mustang/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/07/sema-2009-gran-turismo-best-in-show-is-the-trans-cammer-mustang/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/07/sema-2009-gran-turismo-best-in-show-is-the-trans-cammer-mustang/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Philip Koenen's "Trans-Cammer" 1970 Ford Mustang. Click above for high-res image gallery

Phillip Koenen brought a really gorgeous, miles-deep-black, 1970 Mustang to SEMA and came away with another fine piece of hardware:The Gran Turismo Best in Show award. For the past several years, Sony Computer Entertainment America has hosted these awards, which honor some of the coolest cars at SEMA.

Koenen's SOHC 427-powered "Trans-Cammer" snagged the Best Hot Rod award in addition to winning Best in Show. Gran Turismo creator Kazunori Yamauchi awarded the trophy himself at the awards ceremony, which rocked The Palms' Rain nightclub Wednesday night. In addition to the the trophy, Koenen's beloved "Trans-Cammer" Mustang wins the right to be featured in a future installment of the Gran Turismo series.

Other Gran Turismo Award winners included Scott Bailey and Tony Vanillo's Ford F-250 Unlimited 2 Class short-course race truck in the Best Truck/SUV category; Chris Rado's World Racing Unlimited front-wheel-drive time attack Scion TC as Best Asian Import; KC Howet's 2009 Underground Racing Lamborghini LP560-4TT in Best European Import; and Nicholas Ashby's Moment Carbon Camaro for Best Domestic Automobile. Sounds like a dream garage to us. Follow the jump to read the official press release, and don't forget to check out the gallery as well.


Gallery: SEMA 2009: 1970 Trans-Cammer Mustang


Photos copyright (C)2009 Frank Filipponio/Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading SEMA 2009: Gran Turismo Best in Show is the Trans-Cammer Mustang

SEMA 2009: Gran Turismo Best in Show is the Trans-Cammer Mustang originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 07 Nov 2009 10:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1970 Ford Mustang1970 Mustang1970FordMustang1970MustangChris RadoChrisRadogran turismogran turismo awardsGranTurismoGranTurismoAwardsKazunori YamauchiKazunoriYamauchiKC HowetKcHowetKoenenMustangNicholas AshbyNicholasAshbyPhillip KoenenPhillipKoenenScott BaileyScottBaileySEMAsema 2009Sema2009Tony VanilloTonyVanilloTrans CammerTrans Cammer Ford MustangTrans-CammerTrans-Cammer Ford MustangTrans-Cammer MustangTrans-cammerFordMustangTrans-cammerMustangTransCammerTransCammer Ford MustangTranscammerFordMustangSat, 07 Nov 2009 10:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Laptop steering wheel desk is real. And real funny.]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/07/laptop-steering-wheel-desk-is-real-and-real-funny/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/07/laptop-steering-wheel-desk-is-real-and-real-funny/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/07/laptop-steering-wheel-desk-is-real-and-real-funny/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Laptop DeskYou know, when we're driving along, eating buffalo wings and trying to manage a Super Slurpee while playing Cooking Dash on the iPhone, it sure would be helpful to have a place to keep all that stuff organized. Thankfully, there's the Laptop Steering Wheel Desk, which accomplishes all of the above AND finally gives us a place to keep our bleu cheese and celery sticks, to boot. (You see, our cupholders are already occupied by french fries.) This "Why didn't I think of that?" stroke of genius slides right around your steering wheel, which it uses as an anchor for your much-needed flat surface.

Listen, steering is overrated anyway, right? Actually, the official product description on Amazon.com says, "For safety reasons, never use this product while driving." But come on, we're excellent drivers. We're pretty sure we can handle this. Based on the user reviers, others have found this device to be exceedingly convenient. Some of the user-submitted photos suggest that the Laptop Steering Wheel Desk may indeed be troublesome in the hands of less experienced drivers, but we remain skeptical. We think we'll put one in the shopping cart with that Three Wolf Moon T-Shirt we've been eying. Then, when it arrives, we're hunting for a drive-thru pizzeria. Thanks for the tips, everyone!

[Source: Amazon.com]

Laptop steering wheel desk is real. And real funny. originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 07 Nov 2009 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>buffalo wings are awesomeBuffaloWingsAreAwesomecompletely safeCompletelySafedistracted drivingDistractedDrivinglaptop steering wheel deskLaptopSteeringWheelDesksteering wheel deskSteeringWheelDeskSat, 07 Nov 2009 09:01:00 EST<![CDATA[SEMA 2009: Booth Professionals are anything but stock]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/sema-2009-booth-professionals-are-anything-but-stock/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/sema-2009-booth-professionals-are-anything-but-stock/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/sema-2009-booth-professionals-are-anything-but-stock/#commentsFiled under: ,


Lisa Angeline, aka Catwoman - Click above for high-res image gallery

This year's SEMA show in Las Vegas didn't have quite the gravitas of years past, as the state of the economy and the automotive industry in particular seemed to be a wet blanket over the whole proceedings. Thank goodness there were plenty of friendly faces throughout the halls to keep our spirits up.

One smiling face especially caught our eye, although we weren't sure why. The eyes and smile were familiar but we couldn't quite put our finger on where we had seen them before. And then it hit us, it was our beloved Catwoman (a.k.a. Lisa Angeline) from last year's BatSmart gallery! We hardly recognized her stripped of her catsuit. We saw her in the Vertical Doors booth. We know this with great certainty because the name of the company was written in very strategic locations - like on the banner above her head and (*ahem*) elsewhere. Smart folks behind that BatSmart. But to be honest, we weren't really paying too much attention to the cars there, so perhaps this strategy is flawed.

This happened quite a bit during the week. We'd go down to shoot a certain car, and an hour later, we'd be scratching our heads wondering what we had come down for in the first place. Take a look at the gallery and you'll probably agree - down year or no, the distractions were quite spectacular.


Gallery: SEMA 2009: Booth Professionals


Photos copyright (C)2009 Frank Filipponio/Weblogs, Inc.

SEMA 2009: Booth Professionals are anything but stock originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 06 Nov 2009 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>babebabe galleryBabeGallerybabesbooth babebooth babesbooth professionalsBoothBabeBoothBabesBoothProfessionalscatwomanfemale modelsFemaleModelslas vegasLasVegasLisa AngelineLisaAngelinemodelsSEMAsema 2009Sema showsema show 2009Sema2009SemaShowSemaShow2009show girlsShowGirlswomen of semaWomenOfSemaFri, 06 Nov 2009 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SEMA 2009: What we didn't get to cover]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/sema-2009-what-we-didnt-get-to-cover/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/sema-2009-what-we-didnt-get-to-cover/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/sema-2009-what-we-didnt-get-to-cover/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,


2009 SEMA Show Las Vegas - Click above for high-res image gallery

Every year at SEMA, we fill the week with posts featuring special vehicles and products that we felt were important enough to share. Generally, they are the most newsworthy projects and new model introductions, but sometimes they are just things that caught our eye. When all is said and done, we think we've given all of you a good taste of what's on offer here in the desert.

Of course, there are always things we see and shoot that don't make it into the regular posts from the days we are here. We end up with a few hundred photos of random weirdness and cool stuff that just didn't make it into a dedicated post. That's what this post is for. It's basically a chance to dump some of that random wackiness and wonder that is SEMA into one big bowl and invite you all to take a sip. Click on the gallery below and you'll see race cars, hot rods, muscle cars, motorcycles, wheels and more. None are labeled, but all should provide a unique look at what we saw at SEMA 2009.


Gallery: SEMA 2009: Random sightings


Photos copyright (C)2009 Frank Filipponio/Weblogs, Inc.

SEMA 2009: What we didn't get to cover originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 06 Nov 2009 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aftermarketcarcarscustomcustom carcustom carsCustomCarCustomCarslas vegasLasVegasSEMAsema 2009Sema showSema2009SemaShowFri, 06 Nov 2009 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Daily U-Turn: What you missed on 11.06.09]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/daily-u-turn-what-you-missed-on-11-06-09/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/daily-u-turn-what-you-missed-on-11-06-09/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/daily-u-turn-what-you-missed-on-11-06-09/#comments

First Drive: 2011 Kia Sorento finally crosses over

2011 Kia Sorento - Click above for high-res image gallery Sometimes it's hard to remember what you did just yesterday, but think back to 2003 when Kia first introduced the Sorento mid-size...

SEMA Sweeps: Win one of five Sony PSP/Gran Turismo bundles - Day 5

We've made it to the last day of our SEMA Sweeps! We've given away four limited-edition PSP/Gran Turismo bundles, but we've got one left. Yesterday's winner has been randomly selected and...

REPORT: Toyota execs deny cover-up after feds rebuke automaker over runaway car investigation

Remember Toyota's massive 3.8 million unit unintended acceleration recall that was attributed to pesky floor mats? It appears defective floor mats doesn't tell the whole story, as the Department...

Also of interest:

Browse our archive of Daily U-Turn posts or subscribe to the RSS feed

Daily U-Turn: What you missed on 11.06.09 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 06 Nov 2009 19:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>uturnFri, 06 Nov 2009 19:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Autoline on Autoblog with John McElroy]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/autoline-on-autoblog-with-john-mcelroy/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/autoline-on-autoblog-with-john-mcelroy/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/autoline-on-autoblog-with-john-mcelroy/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

CHRYSLER CONSIDERS GETTING BACK INTO BIG RIGS

One of the more intriguing tidbits that dribbled out of Chrysler's grueling 8-hour press conference on Wednesday is that the company is considering getting back into the heavy truck business. They're not talking about heavy duty pick-ups, they're talking about 18-wheelers.

Up until the early 1970's Dodge sold heavy trucks, including semi-tractors. In fact, Dodge trucks were famous the world over. But like GM and Ford, the Chrysler Corporation decided to get out of that business at a time when the commercial truck sector was under pressure.

When times are good heavy trucks generate a significant amount of profits. Mercedes-Benz, Volkswagen, Renault, Toyota (Hino), Nissan and Mitsubishi (Fuso) are still in the business. But it takes a lot of capital investment to get into and stay in the highly cyclical heavy truck segment, which is why the American car companies abandoned that market years ago.

In this case, the idea to get Chrysler back into the heavy truck market is Fiat's, not Chrysler's. And that is precisely why this could actually happen.

____________________________________________________________________________________

John McElroy is host of the TV program "Autoline Detroit" and daily web video "Autoline Daily". Every week he brings his unique insights as an auto industry insider to Autoblog readers.
____________________________________________________________________________________

Continue reading Autoline on Autoblog with John McElroy

Autoline on Autoblog with John McElroy originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 06 Nov 2009 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>autoline detroitautoline on autoblogAutolineDetroitAutolineOnAutoblogchryslerchrysler big rigchrysler semichrysler trucksChryslerBigRigChryslerSemiChryslerTrucksfeaturedfiativecojohn mcelroyJohnMcelroyFri, 06 Nov 2009 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Quieter Spirit: Rolls reportedly planning hybrid Ghost for 15% better economy]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/quieter-spirit-rolls-reportedly-planning-hybrid-ghost-for-15-b/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/quieter-spirit-rolls-reportedly-planning-hybrid-ghost-for-15-b/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/quieter-spirit-rolls-reportedly-planning-hybrid-ghost-for-15-b/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Rolls-Royce Ghost - Click above for high-res image gallery

If you've been pondering getting on the list for a Rolls-Royce Ghost but you're hesitant because of the negative environmental impact (and social standing) of the big, beautiful boat's V12 engine, we've got good news for you. British site Autocar is reporting that a hybrid version of the Ghost is in the works. It's rumored to be based off the mild hybrid system of the BMW ActiveHybrid 7, which makes sense considering that the two luxury sleds utilize the same platform. The nearly 18-foot long Ghost will likely still sport a 6.2-liter V12, but the brutish powerplant will be aided and abetted by a 20kW electric motor capable of an extra 15 hp and 155 lb-ft fitted into the baby Rolls' eight speed ZF auto transmission.

Battery power will reportedly come courtesy of a .6 W/h lithium-ion battery pack fitted to the Ghost's substantial trunk. The reported hybrid Ghost won't have the ability to run on battery power alone, but the luxury barge will employ start/stop tech and due to the battery's presence it won't need an alternator, either. The net result of the of the (relative) greenification of the Ghost will reportedly be a 15% bump in fuel economy.

A 15% efficiency bump probably won't do much to improve the Ghost's likely miserable fuel economy figures, but the added twist from the Ghost's electric motor may help it hit 60 mph more quickly than the gasoline-only 4.8 seconds (U.S. spec).

Sure, if this hybrid Rolls ever sees the light of day it'd make the already massive Ghost even heavier and more costly, but the negatives pale in comparison to the gratification of telling other rich people that your chauffeur drives a hybrid.


Gallery: Hands-On: Rolls-Royce Ghost


[Source: Autocar]

Quieter Spirit: Rolls reportedly planning hybrid Ghost for 15% better economy originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 06 Nov 2009 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 Rolls-Royce Ghost2010Rolls-royceGhostactivehybridactivehybrid 7Activehybrid7bmwLithium IonLithiumIonrolls royceRollsRoyceFri, 06 Nov 2009 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Funny Car Commercial of the Day: Ready for winter?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/funny-car-commercial-of-the-day-ready-for-winter/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/funny-car-commercial-of-the-day-ready-for-winter/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/funny-car-commercial-of-the-day-ready-for-winter/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Ready for Winter? Click above to watch the video after the break

As someone who happened to have grown up in snowy climes of the Great Lakes States for the first 25 years of life, this author knows exactly how nasty it can be in the morning to walk out of your nice, toasty house on a cold and blustery winter day. It's even worse when you need to drive somewhere and your car is covered in a hard-as-rock coating of ice and snow.

Having since moved to the sunny state of Arizona, however, dealing with the scenario particular situation isn't on this blogger's agenda any time soon.

That said, it is in the forecast for many Autoblog readers, and so we've decided to dig up this oldie-but-a-goody Statoil commercial to get you in the mood. Click past the break to watch the video and check out veryfunnyads.com for more gut-busting ads from around the world.

[Source: veryfunnyads.com]

Continue reading Funny Car Commercial of the Day: Ready for winter?

Funny Car Commercial of the Day: Ready for winter? originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 06 Nov 2009 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>funnyfunny carfunny car commercialfunny car commercial of the dayfunny car commercialsfunny commercialfunny commercialsFunnyCarFunnyCarCommercialFunnyCarCommercialOfTheDayFunnyCarCommercialsFunnyCommercialFunnyCommercialsstatoilvery funnyvery funny adsVeryFunnyVeryFunnyAdsFri, 06 Nov 2009 18:01:00 EST<![CDATA[SEMA 2009: Chevy Graphics Camaro not bashful about changing in public]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/sema-2009-chevy-graphics-camaro-not-bashful-about-changing-in-p/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/sema-2009-chevy-graphics-camaro-not-bashful-about-changing-in-p/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/sema-2009-chevy-graphics-camaro-not-bashful-about-changing-in-p/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


2010 Chevrolet Camaro graphics options - Click above for high-res image gallery

Chevrolet decided that it might be fun to have a contest to pick out a new decal pack for its hot new Camaro. They posted six different possible decal sets on Facebook a while back and after letting their online friends vote, the automaker chose four finalists.

Those four looks were applied to a silver Camaro over the course of the four-day SEMA show in Vegas. We stopped by the booth every day except Friday and took some pics to show you how the stickers looked in person. We've assembled a gallery so you can peruse each and then head over to the Camaro's Facebook page to cast your vote for the winner.


Gallery: SEMA 2009: Chevy Graphics Camaro

TuesdayWednesday

Photos copyright (C)2009 Frank Filipponio/Weblogs, Inc.

SEMA 2009: Chevy Graphics Camaro not bashful about changing in public originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 06 Nov 2009 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auto graphicsAutoGraphicsCamaroCamaro graphicCamaro GraphicsCamaroGraphicCamaroGraphicscar graphicsCarGraphicschevroletChevrolet CamaroChevroletCamaroGraphic Camarographic designGraphicCamaroGraphicDesigngraphicsSEMAsema 2009Sema2009Fri, 06 Nov 2009 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[SEMA 2009: Galpin builds custom '69 Mustang right on the show floor]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/sema-2009-galpin-builds-custom-69-mustang-right-on-the-show-fl/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/sema-2009-galpin-builds-custom-69-mustang-right-on-the-show-fl/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/sema-2009-galpin-builds-custom-69-mustang-right-on-the-show-fl/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Galpin Auto Sports '69 Mustang build - Click above for high-res image gallery

While those of us in the media walked around the show floor at SEMA looking for the cool, the crazy, and the just plain awesome, there were people doing actual work. Real work. No, we're not talking about the security people that wouldn't let us in the show before 9:00am no matter how we tried to convince them, nor the food vendors charging $40 for a lousy pizza. We're talking about the guys at Galpin Auto Sports who spent each day of the show building a custom 1969 Ford Mustang from scratch.

The Mustang started off at the start of the show in literally thousands of pieces, and every time we walked by, we could see that the car was just a little bit closer to completion. The 427ci V8 was already in the Mustang the last time we saw it, and while we left before we could see the car completed, everyone at GAS seemed pretty confident that it would be finished by the time the show ended this afternoon. From the looks of all of the individual pieces, the end product should be pretty cool looking. Check out our high-res gallery below to see just how many parts it takes to build a '69 Mustang.


Gallery: SEMA 2009: Galpin '69 Mustang Build


Photos copyright (C)2009 Drew Phillips / Weblogs, Inc.

SEMA 2009: Galpin builds custom '69 Mustang right on the show floor originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 06 Nov 2009 16:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1969 Ford Mustang1969FordMustangFordFord MustangFordMustangGalpinGalpin Auto SportsGalpin FordGalpinAutoSportsGalpinFordMustangSEMASEMA 2009Sema2009Fri, 06 Nov 2009 16:57:00 EST<![CDATA[SEMA 2009: Knee-high tri-axle pickup by Air-Zenith is down and (not so) dirty]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/sema-2009-knee-high-tri-axle-pickup-by-air-zenith-is-down-and/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/sema-2009-knee-high-tri-axle-pickup-by-air-zenith-is-down-and/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/sema-2009-knee-high-tri-axle-pickup-by-air-zenith-is-down-and/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Air-Zenith custom pickup - Click above for high-res image gallery

We're not exactly sure what this used to be in its former life, but it all kinds of cool in its current iteration. Just knee-high to a Hobbit, this six-wheel convertible was parked in the shadow of Bigfoot and we almost tripped over it.

We were able to locate an Air-Zenith banner on the windshield, however, we couldn't find any other info. But really, what else do you need to know? Air-Zenith is the same group that dropped the drag pickup we saw at SEMA 2008. That one might have been quicker, but this one has a cool bike in the bed!


Gallery: SEMA 2009: Knee-high tri-axle AirXenith pickup truck


Photos copyright (C)2009 Frank Filipponio/Weblogs, Inc.

SEMA 2009: Knee-high tri-axle pickup by Air-Zenith is down and (not so) dirty originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 06 Nov 2009 16:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Air-ZenithAir-Zenith pickupAir-Zenith slammed pickupAir-zenithPickupAir-zenithSlammedPickupairbagairbrushbaggedflame jobFlameJobflamesPickuppickup truckPickupTruckSEMAsema 2009Sema2009triple-axleFri, 06 Nov 2009 16:39:00 EST<![CDATA[SEMA 2009: 1951 Henry J gasser is a 7-second blast from the past]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/sema-2009-1951-henry-j-gasser-is-a-7-second-blast-from-the-past/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/sema-2009-1951-henry-j-gasser-is-a-7-second-blast-from-the-past/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/sema-2009-1951-henry-j-gasser-is-a-7-second-blast-from-the-past/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


1951 Kaiser Henry J - Click above for high-res image gallery

Here's another black beauty that caught our attention in the halls of SEMA 2009. It's a 1951 Kaiser Henry J owned and raced by Chris Beanes of California.

Running in A/Gas, this gloss-free gasser can storm the quarter in the mid-7s at better than 174 MPH. We read somewhere that it's powered by a Chevy 400 that's backed by a four-speed transmission, but other than that we don't have a lot more details. What we do have are a few pics in the gallery below that hopefully capture the magic of this nostalgic dragster.


Gallery: SEMA 2009: 1951 Henry J gasser


Photos copyright (C)2009 Frank Filipponio/Weblogs, Inc.

SEMA 2009: 1951 Henry J gasser is a 7-second blast from the past originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 06 Nov 2009 16:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1951 Henry J1951 Kaiser1951 Kaiser Henry J1951HenryJ1951Kaiser1951KaiserHenryJAGasChris BeanesChrisBeanesdrag racerdrag racingDragRacerDragRacingdragstergasserHenry JHenryJkaiserKaiser Henry JKaiserHenryJnostalgiaSEMASEMA 2009:sema showSema2009:SemaShowFri, 06 Nov 2009 16:20:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: With F1 program scrapped, where will Toyota Motorsports land next?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/video-with-f1-program-scrapped-where-will-toyota-motorsports-l/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/video-with-f1-program-scrapped-where-will-toyota-motorsports-l/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/video-with-f1-program-scrapped-where-will-toyota-motorsports-l/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Toyota GT-One - Click above for high-res image gallery

As Toyota president Akio Toyoda announced the withdrawal of his company from the Formula One World Championship, he reiterated Toyota's commitment to motorsport competition. But while this may have been pure lip-service, the Japanese automaker has a long history in racing, leading to speculation over where Toyota could land next. According to Toyoda:
Motor sports remain an important means of personalizing the automobile in the eyes of customers. Motor sports also remain an important means of cultivating human resources and our R&D operations. ... We will rethink our motor-sports activities with an eye to maximizing those benefits while addressing economic realities.
Even in the absence of a renewed F1 program, Toyota continues to compete in series as diverse as Formula Nippon, NHRA, Grand Am, Super GT and NASCAR. While the beancounters in Tokyo could continue to rely solely on these and other existing programs - or worse, start pulling out of more - sources point to potential racing programs at Le Mans, in the new FIA GT1 World Championship or possibly in the shifting World Rally Championship. Any of these categories would give Toyota a more direct tie-in to its road-going products, but which - if any - the Japanese motor giant will ultimately choose remains to be seen. In the meantime, enjoy the short clip after the jump highlighting the company's history and continued involvement in motor racing worldwide.

[Source: PistonHeads]

Continue reading VIDEO: With F1 program scrapped, where will Toyota Motorsports land next?

VIDEO: With F1 program scrapped, where will Toyota Motorsports land next? originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 06 Nov 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>F1FIA GT1FiaGt1Formula 1Formula NipponFormula OneFormula1FormulaNipponFormulaOneGrand AmGrandAmGT1NASCARNHRASuper GTSuperGttoyotatoyota fia gt1toyota le manstoyota motorsporttoyota motorsportstoyota racingtoyota racing developmenttoyota trdtoyota wrcToyotaFiaGt1ToyotaLeMansToyotaMotorsportToyotaMotorsportsToyotaRacingToyotaRacingDevelopmentToyotaTrdToyotaWrctrdWorld RallyWorldRallyWRCFri, 06 Nov 2009 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SEMA 2009: The rest of the best at the Ford display]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/sema-2009-the-rest-of-the-best-at-the-ford-display/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/sema-2009-the-rest-of-the-best-at-the-ford-display/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/sema-2009-the-rest-of-the-best-at-the-ford-display/#commentsFiled under: , ,


The rest of the Ford display - Click above for high-res image gallery

SEMA is an interesting show. We go in knowing full well that 60-75% of the cars we'll be walking past and/or covering are just trash. Sorry if this bombshell offends anyone, but your Chrysler 300C doesn't need 26-inch hoops, nor seventy gallons of sparkle orange paint. Or diamonds. But, as Doyle Brunson might say if he covered cars instead of being the Godfather of Texas Hold 'Em, that's SEMA.

We mention this in the "other Fords" post because some of these custom FoMoCos look fantastic, or at least pretty good. But 60-75% of them, well, we're not entirely sold. Let's start with the good. Despite the two-tone paint job, we're pretty darn smitten with the Fusion T4 by MRT above. More cars need big old intercoolers taking up the whole lower fascia. And while they might be an inch (or three) too big, the wheels are nice. And that white Lincoln MKS? Nice.

But then you got the other cars contained in this here gallery, and... um.... we like the Lincoln MKT, because well, we just like MKTs. But we're not sold on the Focus upgrades, especially since Ford saw fit to bring a Euro Focus RS to the show. Game, set, outmatched. And don't even get us started on the Edge they've cooked up here. Specifically, the wing on the back. No really - see for yourself.


Gallery: SEMA 2009: The rest of the Ford display


Photos copyright (C)2009 Drew Phillips / Weblogs, Inc.

SEMA 2009: The rest of the best at the Ford display originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 06 Nov 2009 15:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EdgeFlexFocusFocus RSFocusRsFordford edgeford focusford fusionFord Transit ConnectFordEdgeFordFocusFordFusionFordTransitConnectFusionLincolnLincoln MKSlincoln MKTLincolnMksLincolnMktSEMASEMA 2009SEMA ShowSema2009SemaShowTransit ConnectTransitConnectFri, 06 Nov 2009 15:39:00 EST<![CDATA[SEMA Sweeps: Win one of five Sony PSP/Gran Turismo bundles - Day 5]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/sema-sweeps-win-one-of-five-sony-psp-gran-turismo-bundles-day/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/sema-sweeps-win-one-of-five-sony-psp-gran-turismo-bundles-day/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/sema-sweeps-win-one-of-five-sony-psp-gran-turismo-bundles-day/#comments

We've made it to the last day of our SEMA Sweeps! We've given away four limited-edition PSP/Gran Turismo bundles, but we've got one left. Yesterday's winner has been randomly selected and contacted, so here's how you can win today.

We're doing this in honor of the SEMA Show in Las Vegas, and with it, the Seventh Annual GT Awards, so take advantage of our generosity and follow the directions below for your chance to win.

For the last prize, we want to know which car you think should be the cover car of Gran Turismo 5. Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG? Corvette ZR1? Something else? This is your last chance to win, so make sure to follow the directions below and enter for your chance to win!

Entering is easy. All you have to do is:
  • Leave a comment in this post telling us what vehicle you think should be the cover car of Gran Turismo 5.
  • You must be 18 years or older and a resident of the U.S. or Canada (excluding Quebec, désolé!)
  • Limit 1 entry per person per day
  • This entry period ends at 3:00PM EST on Saturday, November 7
  • At that time, we'll randomly select one winner to receive one PSP/GT bundle (ARV $199.99) that includes a Mystic Silver PSP-3000 system, Gran Turismo PSP game on UMD, a PlayStation Network downloadable voucher for a white Chevrolet Corvette ZR1, 2GB Memory Stick PRO Duo, PlayStation Network downloadable movie voucher (title TBD) and Sony MusicPass voucher good for 10 downloadable songs.
  • For a list of complete rules, click here
That's it - it's free and easy. Good luck!

SEMA Sweeps: Win one of five Sony PSP/Gran Turismo bundles - Day 5 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 06 Nov 2009 15:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>psp gran turismoPspGranTurismosema sweepsSemaSweepssonysony pspSonyPspFri, 06 Nov 2009 15:20:00 EST<![CDATA[SEMA 2009: The Chevrolet Camaro 'splosion!!!]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/sema-2009-the-chevrolet-camaro-splosion/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/sema-2009-the-chevrolet-camaro-splosion/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/sema-2009-the-chevrolet-camaro-splosion/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Every 2010 Chevrolet Camaro we could find at SEMA - Click above for high-res image gallery

In past years at SEMA, there has always been a single vehicle that seems to be the most popular at the show. Last year, it was the Dodge Challenger and Nissan GTR, but there weren't enough to be overwhelming.

This year, the 2010 Chevrolet Camaro came and infested the Las Vegas convention center like a muscle car cockroach. We couldn't seem to take ten steps without running into one, and by the end of the day, we had witnessed just about every way a Camaro could be customized. You want Lambo doors? You got 'em. How about slammed? Sure. Green? Yellow? Gold? Matte Blue? How about a convertible? Make it two. How about wide? Or ever wider. Engine swaps? Don't get us started. Try an LS7 or even an LS9. If forced induction is your thing, there were both turbocharged and supercharged Camaros. If you'd rather have a Pontiac, there were not one but two different Trans-Am conversions. Tuners like Callaway, Lingenfelter, Hurst, and Hennessey all brought out turnkey versions. There were pace car Camaros, drifter Camaros, movie theme Camaros, anniversary edition Camaros and charity auction Camaros.

To say the least, we've had our fill of Camaros for a long time. Still, we couldn't leave Las Vegas without sharing it all with you, so enjoy through the 100+ shot photo gallery below of every 2010 Camaro saw at SEMA.


Gallery: SEMA 2009: Camaro 'splosion


Photos copyright (C)2009 Drew Phillips / Weblogs, Inc.

SEMA 2009: The Chevrolet Camaro 'splosion!!! originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 06 Nov 2009 15:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 Chevrolet Camaro2010ChevroletCamaroCamaroChevroletSEMASEMA 2009SEMA showSema2009SemaShowFri, 06 Nov 2009 15:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Introduction to Karting - Part 6]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/introduction-to-karting-part-6/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/introduction-to-karting-part-6/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/introduction-to-karting-part-6/#commentsFiled under: ,

RACE DAY


It's taken a long time to get here, many months accelerated through the magic of the internet, but now it's finally time to hit the track in anger, to fight for position, to make some daring passes - or at least to try and avoid getting lapped more than once. Learning all about karting was interesting, shopping was a chore, hitting the track to practice was a blast, but it was all about wheel-to-wheel competition. In this installment of the series we'll take you through our first race day and our first time turning a wheel on fresh rubber, an experience we shall not soon forget. Oh, and we've given our kart a bit of a make-over too. Click on through to see how it looks, and how we managed under our first green flag.

Continue reading Introduction to Karting - Part 6

Introduction to Karting - Part 6 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 06 Nov 2009 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featurefeaturedfeaturesintroduction to kartingIntroductionToKartingkart racingkartingKartRacingFri, 06 Nov 2009 14:58:00 EST<![CDATA[BMW unleashes 2010 R 1200 GS with DOHC boxer engine]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/bmw-unleashes-2010-r-1200-gs-with-dohc-boxer-engine/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/bmw-unleashes-2010-r-1200-gs-with-dohc-boxer-engine/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/bmw-unleashes-2010-r-1200-gs-with-dohc-boxer-engine/#commentsFiled under: ,

2010 BMW R 1200 GS - Click above for high-res image gallery

Anyone who follows motorcycling would likely tell you that BMW's R 1200 GS sets the standard when it comes to building a proper adventure touring motorcycle - and with good reason. As we found out when we threw a leg over the 2009 edition, BMW's big air-cooled mule can pretty much go anywhere the rider points it, and it'll tackle gnarly off-road conditions with just as much aplomb as it attacks paved back roads and long stretches of superslab.

Still, nothing is perfect (we actually sorta prefer the little brother F 800 GS off the road), and BMW saw fit to update its best-seller for the 2010 model year with a revised boxer engine that now sports dual-overhead cams. That's a major modification and it allowed BMW to locate five-percent more horsepower than the previous mill. Those 110 galloping ponies join 88 lb-ft of torque that BMW says is spread more evenly throughout the rev range than before. We'll take it - more power is always a good thing, right?

As you'd expect, there's also an upgraded R 1200 GS Adventure model for those who truly need the most capable bike they can get their grubby mitts on. Updates over the standard model include spoked (not cast) wheels, greater suspension travel and a monster 8.7-gallon fuel tank. See both new models in all their glory in our image galleries below.


Gallery: 2010 BMW R 1200 GS


Gallery: 2010 BMW R 1200 GS Adventure


[Source: BMW]

BMW unleashes 2010 R 1200 GS with DOHC boxer engine originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 06 Nov 2009 14:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1200cc2010 bmw r 1200 gs2010 bmw r 1200 gs adventure2010BmwR1200Gs2010BmwR1200GsAdventurebmwbmw r 1200 gsBmwR1200Gsmotorbikemotorcycler 1200 gsr 1200 gs adventureR1200GsR1200GsAdventureFri, 06 Nov 2009 14:40:00 EST