Autoblog

Dodge is launching the SRT-8 model of the Challenger first. There's a head-spinning amount of variations on the Mustang GT theme. GM's not going to be left in the dust by the real-life rehashing of the late 1960s. An eagle-eyed member of the Camaro5 forums spotted an unusually dressed Zeta Camaro prototype near the Mesa, AZ proving grounds and managed to snap a cellphone shot of the car. The white mule wearing distinctive matte-black striping reportedly emitted a demonic whistle at idle, perhaps indicating the presence of the LS9 or LSA. A sinister-sounding bestriped Camaro – could it be the SS? We hope. Thanks to everyone who tipped!

[Source: Camaro5]

three high-res pics available by clicking image above

Looks like Nissan is SHIFTing even more heavily into its truck development. With the popularity of crossovers, SUVs and pickups expected to stay strong, Nissan decided to add an off-road test facility to its Motegi proving grounds. Today they opened that extreme off-road track in the Tochigi Prefecture facility. At 2.3 hectares, it is said to be one of the largest tracks in Japan. Is that the same as a parsec?

The new track segments were "designed to replicate different real-world driving conditions from across the world." It includes a rocky section simulating rough mountain terrain, a desert road and a 30-degree incline slope. The obvious advantage of having such a facility is to test four-wheel drive systems, but also to do it in a safe and controllable environment. Being able to replicate tests with a great degree of accuracy and having control over the conditions makes this a nice addition to any test center.

[Source: Nissan]

Mazda Motor Corporation unveiled their new test facility in western Japan on Thursday, complete with an opening ceremony with local government dignitaries and high-ranking company officials including President and CEO Hisakazu Imaki. The facility, known as the Mine ('me-nay') Proving Ground, is located in Mine City in Japan's Yamaguchi Prefecture. The research and development operation includes a seven turn, 3.3 kilometer test track, a 'multi purpose driving course,' and is the company's second "major business installation" in the prefecture-- the company already maintains its Hofu manufacturing facility in the area.

[Sources: Mazda via ACNnewswire; MazdaNews.com]

 

General Motors Corp.'s 3,200 acre proving grounds in Mesa, Ariz. is on some pretty hot property, and the city is hoping the automaker will be willing to relocate in order to clear the way for new homes and other developments, according to Arizona's East Valley Tribune. GM hasn't made a decision one way or the other, but assuming it can find a suitable alternative site in Arizona and the price is right, the deal could go through and help the company's troubled bottom line.

[Source: East Valley Tribune]