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[VIDEO: The Fastest Yellow and Red - Best (and most ambitious) stop-motion diecast car film ever?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/video-the-fastest-yellow-and-red-best-and-most-ambitious-st/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/video-the-fastest-yellow-and-red-best-and-most-ambitious-st/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/video-the-fastest-yellow-and-red-best-and-most-ambitious-st/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Fastest Yellow and Red -- Click above to watch video

It took just one minute and 13 seconds into this video for us to scream "Epic!" In fact, we're not sure there's enough epic epicness in that single word to properly describe the epic proportions contained therein.

This 1970's JDM homage has got it all: A yellow Pontiac Trans-Am of the Screaming Chicken era, a race-prepped red Nissan GT-R police car, a yellow Datsun Fairlady 280ZX and lots of meddling trucks. As if that weren't enough, there are little green army men and a special effects regime that could have been overseen by Michael Bay. And it has a really odd name. Luxe37, we have no idea who you are, but we salute you. Follow the jump to watch the stop-motion mayhem.

[Source: YouTube]

Continue reading VIDEO: The Fastest Yellow and Red - Best (and most ambitious) stop-motion diecast car film ever?

VIDEO: The Fastest Yellow and Red - Best (and most ambitious) stop-motion diecast car film ever? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Dec 2009 12:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>280Zanimationarmy menArmyMendiecastFairladyfastest yellow and redFastestYellowAndRedJDMNissan GT-RNissanGt-rPontiac trans-amPontiacTrans-amstop motionstop-motionStopMotionTrans-Amvideovintage japanVintageJapanyoutubeWed, 16 Dec 2009 12:29:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Last Mustang Unleashed short combines magic and Las Vegas strip]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/last-mustang-unleashed-video-combines-magic-and-las-vegas-strip/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/last-mustang-unleashed-video-combines-magic-and-las-vegas-strip/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/last-mustang-unleashed-video-combines-magic-and-las-vegas-strip/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Steve Wyrick's Mustang Unleashed stunt -- Click above to watch video

There have been rallies and skateboards and drag races and tattoos, among other things. Now, the tenth and final film of the 2010 pony car festival that is Mustang Unleashed has gone out in smoky style, with a big Las Vegas number filmed on the strip. This time Vaughn Gittin, Jr. plays a support role to Hard Rock's illusionist Steve Wyrick, who pulls off a little sleight-of-car-and-body that channels Houdini and almost any Nicholas Cage stunt scene that has a car in it.

Like the best tricks, it isn't long but will have you wondering how it was done. If you get any ideas, the video warns you not to try this at home - not even driving - without the use of magic. Follow the jump to see it for yourself.

[Source: Mustang Unleashed]

Continue reading VIDEO: Last Mustang Unleashed short combines magic and Las Vegas strip

VIDEO: Last Mustang Unleashed short combines magic and Las Vegas strip originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Dec 2009 11:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 ford2010 ford mustang2010 mustang2010Ford2010FordMustang2010Mustangmarketingmustangmustang unleashedMustangUnleashedvideoWed, 16 Dec 2009 11:28:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Gag Me With a Yule Log - GM allows kids to track Santa Claus via Onstar]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/15/video-gag-me-with-a-yule-log-gm-to-allow-kids-to-track-santa/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/15/video-gag-me-with-a-yule-log-gm-to-allow-kids-to-track-santa/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/15/video-gag-me-with-a-yule-log-gm-to-allow-kids-to-track-santa/#commentsFiled under: ,

Santa pays a visit to OnStar -- Click above to view the video after the jump

OnStar has provided nothing but good press lately for General Motors, and the automaker is going to ride that pony all the way to the finish. The next person in line to take advantage of OnStar's benefits is that Arctic gadget freak himself, Santa Claus. Unveiled as an installed option on his new sleigh - which he picked up when he dropped by OnStar HQ - it comes with at least one extra feature you won't be getting anytime soon: a reindeer health meter.

But you haven't been left out of the bonanza. GM has partnered with NORAD so that if you have an OnStar subscription, you can keep track of K. Kringle during his midnight run. From 6 a.m. on Christmas Eve until early Christmas morning, press the blue button and OnStar will update you on the hour with info relayed by the guys deep in the mountain.

It's not a Red Ryder BB gun with a compass in the stock, but it's a start. Follow the jump for the press release and watch Santa get his Christmas present.

[Source: OnStar]

Continue reading VIDEO: Gag Me With a Yule Log - GM allows kids to track Santa Claus via Onstar

VIDEO: Gag Me With a Yule Log - GM allows kids to track Santa Claus via Onstar originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 15 Dec 2009 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>etcnoradonstarsantasanta clausSantaClausvideoTue, 15 Dec 2009 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: The Michael Winslow of engine impressionists]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/14/video-the-michael-winslow-of-engine-impressionists/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/14/video-the-michael-winslow-of-engine-impressionists/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/14/video-the-michael-winslow-of-engine-impressionists/#commentsFiled under: ,

The engine impressionist (warning: NSFW language) -- Click above to watch video

Remember Michael Winslow, the guy from the Police Academy movies and The Man of 10,000 Effects? When it comes to cars, this gent could be his follow-up act, having worked out his own technique for imitating a number of powerplants.

There are a selection of engine sounds on offer, including a convincing import four-cylinder, two-stroke motorbike, a V6, and a Weedwacker among others - and what else are you going to do while the xBox loads up a game? You can check out his repertoire in the video after the jump. *WARNING: NSFW language. Thanks for the tip, Duy!

[Source: YouTube]

Continue reading VIDEO: The Michael Winslow of engine impressionists

VIDEO: The Michael Winslow of engine impressionists originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 14 Dec 2009 19:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>engine soundsEngineSoundsimpressionimpressionistimpressionsmichael winslowMichaelWinslowvideoyoutubeMon, 14 Dec 2009 19:24:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: 2010 Camaro UNC Tarheels Edition is for diehards only]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/07/video-2010-camaro-unc-tarheel-edition-is-for-diehards-only/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/07/video-2010-camaro-unc-tarheel-edition-is-for-diehards-only/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/07/video-2010-camaro-unc-tarheel-edition-is-for-diehards-only/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

UNC Tarheels Edition 2010 Chevrolet Camaro - Click above to watch the video

Many of us Autobloggers went to colleges that cultivated rabid alumni, but having seen this 2010 Chevrolet Camaro, our graduates were amateurs. In fact, we didn't realize you could love college, or its title-winning basketball team, so much. But a CarDomain forum member called "QuMongous" loves him some University of North Carolina Tarheels, and put his car in the game to prove it. Argyle pinstripes, his school's logo on the door, a hand-painted mascot on the rear quarters, and massive blue Dubs with UNC center caps have made this muscle car a tailgating hero. And wait until you see the back window.

Day-um. That's all we have to say. Follow the jump to see a walkaround of the car. And to you Tarheels players, you owe this guy another championship.

[Source: Tampa Sports Car Examiner]

Continue reading VIDEO: 2010 Camaro UNC Tarheels Edition is for diehards only

VIDEO: 2010 Camaro UNC Tarheels Edition is for diehards only originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 07 Dec 2009 16:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 camaro2010 chevrolet camaro2010 chevrolet corvette grand sport2010 chevy2010 chevy camaro2010Camaro2010ChevroletCamaro2010ChevroletCorvetteGrandSport2010Chevy2010ChevyCamarochevroletChevrolet CamaroChevroletCamarochevyChevy CamaroChevyCamarogo heelsGoHeelstarheelsUNCUNC tarheelsUncTarheelsUniversity of North CarolinaUniversityOfNorthCarolinavideoMon, 07 Dec 2009 16:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Chevy Volt: The Song]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/07/chevy-volt-the-song/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/07/chevy-volt-the-song/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/07/chevy-volt-the-song/#comments
Chevy Volt and Me song -- Click above to watch the video

The Kraft company recently held a competition inviting the public to name its new Vegemite cream cheese spinoff. The name that won, and made it to shelves, was "iSnack 2.0." Really. It took one day of public cacophony to encourage Kraft to change the name to "Cheesybite," but we hear you can still find jars of iSnack 2.0 if you're inclined. Why do we bring this up? Because sometimes we wonder what insights marketers are using to make product roll-out decisions.

And what's that got to do with the Chevy Volt? The Chevy Volt's new theme song, Chevy Volt and Me. In this case, we know what the thought process was. Said the Volt's director of global marketing,

Our goal is to craft that education [about the Volt] in a manner that is family friendly (as it should be because we are America's original mass /heart brand), entertaining and simple to understand for a rather sophisticated product.

A Volt song helps us to achieve those objectives. 'Chevy Volt and Me' explains what Volt is all about as a better EV in simple friendly terms.

All right then. So it ain't Eye of the Tiger or Diesel Power, but it is catchy. Fast-paced, too, so you better pay attention because there's a lot in it. Follow the jump to watch a video of the Volt's gestation, made by the folks at the GM Volt site and set to the new tune. We dare you to listen to it once and not find yourself humming for the rest of the day, "It's so simple like a dimple plug it in and see."

[Source: GM-Volt.com]

Continue reading Chevy Volt: The Song

Chevy Volt: The Song originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 07 Dec 2009 12:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 chevrolet volt2011 chevy volt2011 volkswagen touareg2011ChevroletVolt2011ChevyVolt2011VolkswagenTouaregchevroletChevrolet VoltChevroletVoltchevy voltChevyVoltmarketingvideovoltMon, 07 Dec 2009 12:32:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: TN Senator Corker's daughter carjacked, suspects apprehended via OnStar]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/07/video-tn-senator-corkers-daughter-carjacked-suspects-apprehen/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/07/video-tn-senator-corkers-daughter-carjacked-suspects-apprehen/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/07/video-tn-senator-corkers-daughter-carjacked-suspects-apprehen/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Senator Corker praises OnStar -- Click above to watch the video

Tennessee Senator Bob Corker had this opinion of OnStar a month ago: "Each month I get the bill for OnStar and [I think], 'I don't want to pay this again.'" Then his daughter Julia was carjacked in Washington D.C. last week driving his Chevrolet Tahoe, and having been yanked out of the car by her throat, she was left lying in the street.

Thankfully, Corker's daughter was all right, and she was able to call her father who was nearby. She also remembered that the vehicle as equipped with General Motors' OnStar system, and within an hour, the service had notified the D.C. police that the Tahoe was parked at a Taco Bell seven miles away in Maryland. Corker said that the carjacking happened about 9:15 pm, and by midnight the suspects had been identified and he was headed back home with his daughter.

His opinion of OnStar now: "this is an incredible service." Follow through to the jump to hear about the ordeal in Corker's words (the OnStar talk begins at about 2:15), or check out CNN for the nitty gritty details. And for proof of the extent of Southern politesse, Corker begins the tale with "A gentleman appeared, opened the door, grabbed her by the neck... and he threw her on the pavement and drove away." A "gentleman?" Hat tip to Berto!

[Sources: Politico; CNN]

Continue reading VIDEO: TN Senator Corker's daughter carjacked, suspects apprehended via OnStar

VIDEO: TN Senator Corker's daughter carjacked, suspects apprehended via OnStar originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 07 Dec 2009 09:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bob corkerBobCorkercarjackcarjackingcorkeretcgovernmentonstarsenator bob corkersenator corkerSenatorBobCorkerSenatorCorkervideoMon, 07 Dec 2009 09:29:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Old Dirty Bastards - The glory of Group B]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/06/video-old-dirty-bastards-the-glory-of-group-b/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/06/video-old-dirty-bastards-the-glory-of-group-b/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/06/video-old-dirty-bastards-the-glory-of-group-b/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Group B Quattro
The gorgeous insanity of Group B - Click above to watch the video

You know, there's a reason people talk about Group B racing - and the drivers who participated in it - in practically hushed tones. After all, we're currently in an era where motorsports news is just as likely to be about ever-more-restrictive regulatory efforts or the deranged hooker fantasies of the F1 illuminati as it is about, you know, racing. But during Group B's brief, crazy tenure, it was the regulations that fostered the lunacy, giving us unforgettable, insanely-powered cars and legendary drivers.

Of course, immense power and infinitesimal margins for error meant that the dangers were high -- for the drivers, obviously, but also for the spectators, who were, in their own ways, as bonkers as the factory pilots they idolized and flocked to see, forming masses of humanity that routinely spilled onto the circuits as the hyper-powered rally cars flew by. Eventually, those dangers led to tragedy, which, in turn, led to the abrupt end of the Group B era. But it's not easily forgotten, and every so often, someone posts a reminder why.

Follow the jump for eleven minutes of heaven, edited together (miraculously) without a lick of crappy, distracting music. The only soundtrack you'll hear is the one coming from Group B cars engineered to explore the limits, piloted by drivers who routinely (and expertly) exceeded them. It is, in a word, beautiful. Thanks to Danijel for the tip.

[Source: YouTube via MyCarVid]

Continue reading VIDEO: Old Dirty Bastards - The glory of Group B

VIDEO: Old Dirty Bastards - The glory of Group B originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 06 Dec 2009 10:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>group bGroupBnostalgiaracingrallyRally CarRallyCarrallyingvideoSun, 06 Dec 2009 10:55:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: STR8 Weird: Euro cologne TV spot sounds like Mopar, looks like Chevy, but mostly stinks]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/05/video-str8-weird-european-cologne-commercial-sounds-like-mopar/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/05/video-str8-weird-european-cologne-commercial-sounds-like-mopar/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/05/video-str8-weird-european-cologne-commercial-sounds-like-mopar/#commentsFiled under: , ,

STR8 Cologne TV commercial
STR8 Challenger cologne TV commercial -- Click above to watch the video

According to one of the YouTube commenters for the STR8 Challenger cologne commercial embedded after the jump, it was made for Polish television. Which , of course, makes perfect sense, since the whole thing's in English. Regardless, the ad features Captain Generic Macho driving a Chevy Camaro, which gradually transforms into a giant robot tsunami of cologne that deposits him into the arms of Random Desert Babe. Frankly, "STR8 Challenger" sounds a lot more more like a certain Mopar than some quasi pheromone for European dudes. Check out the video after the jump to see how you too can have it "STR8 My Way." Or, at least, smell like you do. Or something. Hat tip to our man in Poland, Rafal!

[Source: YouTube]

Continue reading VIDEO: STR8 Weird: Euro cologne TV spot sounds like Mopar, looks like Chevy, but mostly stinks

VIDEO: STR8 Weird: Euro cologne TV spot sounds like Mopar, looks like Chevy, but mostly stinks originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 05 Dec 2009 19:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advertisingcamarocolognecommercialpolandvideoyoutubeSat, 05 Dec 2009 19:57:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: 2011 Ford Mustang with 305-HP V6 gets seen and heard in motion]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/video-2011-ford-mustang-with-305-hp-v6-gets-seen-and-heard-in-m/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/video-2011-ford-mustang-with-305-hp-v6-gets-seen-and-heard-in-m/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/video-2011-ford-mustang-with-305-hp-v6-gets-seen-and-heard-in-m/#commentsFiled under: , ,


2011 Ford Mustang - Click above to watch the video after the jump

The 2011 Mustang is only one year removed from a major refresh, but that didn't stop Ford from adding a host of upgrades, especially to the V6 model, to better-compete against its new pony car competition. While we certainly don't discount the V6 Stang's new suspension and packaging updates, the big story resides under its bonnet. The new 3.7-liter V6 packs 305 horsepower mated to a six-speed auto tranny (a six-speed manual is also available, but you lose 1 mpg) giving the new Mustang a big advantage over its predecessor while reportedly delivering the 30 mpg efficiency the masses are looking for.

We got our hands on some b-roll video of the new Mustang V6, with both static and moving shots. If that's not a good enough reason to watch there is also some aural pleasure courtesy of the new 3.7-liter V6. Unfortunately, the engine sounds are only audible when the Stang is in park but it still sounds pretty meaty when inside the cockpit. Hit the jump to see and hear the 2011 Mustang V6 in action.


Gallery: 2011 Ford Mustang 3.7-liter V6


[Source: Ford]

Continue reading VIDEO: 2011 Ford Mustang with 305-HP V6 gets seen and heard in motion

VIDEO: 2011 Ford Mustang with 305-HP V6 gets seen and heard in motion originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 Dec 2009 14:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 ford mustang2011 ford mustang v62011 mustang2011FordMustang2011FordMustangV62011Mustang3.7l v63.7lV6305 hp305Hpfordford mustangford mustang v6FordMustangFordMustangV6mustangmustang v6mustang videoMustangV6MustangVideovideoThu, 03 Dec 2009 14:59:00 EST<![CDATA[LA 2009 LIVE VIDEO: Bob Lutz Keynote address]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/la-2009-live-video-bob-lutz-keynote-address/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/la-2009-live-video-bob-lutz-keynote-address/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/la-2009-live-video-bob-lutz-keynote-address/#commentsFiled under: ,

Click above to view the live video feed after the jump

With Fritz Henderson's resignation termination as General Motor's CEO, the General's generals had to pull a last-minute swap with today's keynote speaker at the LA Auto Show. None other than Maximum Bob Lutz will be manning the podium in a few minutes and in addition to live-blogging the proceedings (coming in 5...4...3...), we've got streaming video of the address after the jump.

Continue reading LA 2009 LIVE VIDEO: Bob Lutz Keynote address

LA 2009 LIVE VIDEO: Bob Lutz Keynote address originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Dec 2009 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bob lutzbob lutz video la auto showBobLutzBobLutzVideoLaAutoShowlala 2009la auto showLa2009LaAutoShowvideoWed, 02 Dec 2009 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: <i>Titan</i> trailer celebrates the glory that is the Nürburgring]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/27/video-titan-trailer-celebrates-the-glory-that-is-the-nur/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/27/video-titan-trailer-celebrates-the-glory-that-is-the-nur/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/27/video-titan-trailer-celebrates-the-glory-that-is-the-nur/#commentsFiled under:

Titan movie teaser - Click above to watch video

As any parent knows, when a child finds a video he likes he can watch it a kabillion jillion times with undiminished joy. That's exactly the kid we turn into any time you cut up race footage and set it to classical music and exhaust notes. This time it's the preview of the movie Titan, by French director Stephane Benini, which strings together action from the 1000 KM of the Nürburgring and features modern and vintage racers and motorcycles.

The movie has its own Facebook page if you really want to declare your love, or you can do the secret admirer thing and just enjoy the 6-minute HD clip from YouTube after the jump. The sound of the GT2 Corvette and DB9R is nothing short of knee-trembling. Follow the jump for the clip, and try not to spill your pureed peas...

[Source: Clash Productions]

Continue reading VIDEO: Titan trailer celebrates the glory that is the Nürburgring

VIDEO: Titan trailer celebrates the glory that is the Nürburgring originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 27 Nov 2009 12:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>clash productionsClashProductionsmovieNurburgringtitanvideoyoutubeFri, 27 Nov 2009 12:59:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Audi tracks down the last Horch... in Texas?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/26/video-audi-tracks-down-the-last-horch-in-texas/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/26/video-audi-tracks-down-the-last-horch-in-texas/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/26/video-audi-tracks-down-the-last-horch-in-texas/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The search for the last Horch -- Click above to watch video

You have August Horch to thank for Audi. A former engineer for Karl Benz, Horch started the second oldest company of the original four companies that merged to form Auto Union (the first was Wanderer). But it was Horch whose name, translated into Latin, became "Audi."

The last Horch was built in Ingolstadt in 1953, and Audi wanted to find it. They put their vintage car locator, Ralph Hornung, on the case and he ended up in a field in West Texas. Follow the jump to view a video explaining the search and how the once mighty V8 found its way to a lonely Lone Star pasture. And on a side note, Hornung has a most awesome job... Thanks for the tip, Alex!

[Source: Audi TV via YouTube]

Continue reading VIDEO: Audi tracks down the last Horch... in Texas?

VIDEO: Audi tracks down the last Horch... in Texas? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 26 Nov 2009 20:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audiAuto UnionAutoUnionchasing classic carsChasingClassicCarsclassic carclassic carsClassicCarClassicCarshorchIngolstadtRalph HornungRalphHornungtexasvideoThu, 26 Nov 2009 20:19:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Inside the cockpit of the Viper ACR's record lap at Laguna Seca]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/25/video-inside-the-cockpit-of-the-viper-acrs-record-lap-at-lagun/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/25/video-inside-the-cockpit-of-the-viper-acrs-record-lap-at-lagun/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/25/video-inside-the-cockpit-of-the-viper-acrs-record-lap-at-lagun/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Dodge Viper ACR laps Laguna Seca - Click above to watch the video after the jump

Pushing a performance monster like the Viper ACR around a race track at ten tenths takes some pretty massive cojones. But few tracks require the testicular fortitude of Laguna Seca.

The iconic circuit in Northern California is packed full of decreasing radius corners, off-camber turns, and the indomitable corkscrew. Fortunately, Dodge test driver Chris Winkler was up to the task, and pushed the ACR around dry lagoon to a record-breaking lap time of 1:33.944, edging out its cousin the Devon GTX in the process to claim the fastest road-car lap time around the track.

Now we've got footage that takes us inside the cockpit for the record run, which may seem like old hat to the video game crowd, until you realize this was happening in real life. Follow the jump to check it out.

[Source: Chrysler via YouTube]

Continue reading VIDEO: Inside the cockpit of the Viper ACR's record lap at Laguna Seca

VIDEO: Inside the cockpit of the Viper ACR's record lap at Laguna Seca originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 25 Nov 2009 18:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chris williamschris winklerChrisWilliamsChrisWinklerdodge viperdodge viper acrdodge viper acr laguna secaDodgeViperDodgeViperAcrDodgeViperAcrLagunaSecalaguna secaLagunaSecalap recordlap timeLapRecordLapTimevideoviperviper acrViperAcrWed, 25 Nov 2009 18:44:00 EST<![CDATA[Spike announces nominees for Best Driving Game of the Year]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/21/spike-announces-nominees-for-best-driving-game-of-the-year/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/21/spike-announces-nominees-for-best-driving-game-of-the-year/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/21/spike-announces-nominees-for-best-driving-game-of-the-year/#commentsFiled under: ,

Spike's Video Game Award finalists -- Click above to watch trailers at Spike.com

Spike TV has opened up the voting for its Video Game Awards, and the finalists are down to four: DiRT 2, Need for Speed: Shift, Forza Motorsport 3, and Gran Turismo PSP. It's a bit of a motley list, but then again it's been a motley year for driving games, and we're still waiting for a vision of the unicorn otherwise known as Gran Turismo 5. If you want to vote, cast your ballot on Spike's site. If you need a refresher because you insist on being an informed voter, follow the jump and check out some gameplay.

[Source: Spike]

Continue reading Spike announces nominees for Best Driving Game of the Year

Spike announces nominees for Best Driving Game of the Year originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 21 Nov 2009 13:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>awardsdirt 2dirt2Forza Motorsport 3ForzaMotorsport3gran turismo pspGranTurismoPspneed for speed shiftNeedForSpeedShiftspikespike tvSpikeTvvideovideo gamesVideoGamesSat, 21 Nov 2009 13:09:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Yes, the 2010 Audi S4 can drift]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/19/video-yes-the-2010-audi-s4-can-drift/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/19/video-yes-the-2010-audi-s4-can-drift/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/19/video-yes-the-2010-audi-s4-can-drift/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Click above to view the video after the jump

When we drove the 2010 Audi S4, we praised the sedan's trick electronic rear differential for its ability to shuffle torque between the rear wheels to give the sensation, if not the exact effect, of oversteer. Unfortunately, our track time was spent in an e-diffless model, so we didn't get to fully exploit its potential around Infineon. However, hot-shoe Ignacio Perez did just that at Spain's Jarama circuit.

After the jump you can watch Perez putting the new S4 into full-on drifts around the track with one nervous front seat passenger and his camera-wielding companion in tow. Although getting the S4 sideways isn't too difficult (we did it a few times in the standard model), you can see in the video that speed drops off precipitously at corner the exit. Regardless, modern-day Audis are no longer relentlessly pushing, nose-heavy beasts and, what's more, Perez was wagging his tail in an S4 Avant, the five-door version we can't get in the States... dammit.


Gallery: Review: 2010 Audi S4


[Source: Fourtitude]

Continue reading VIDEO: Yes, the 2010 Audi S4 can drift

VIDEO: Yes, the 2010 Audi S4 can drift originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 14:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20102010 audi s42010 audi s4 avant2010 audi s4 wagon2010AudiS42010AudiS4Avant2010AudiS4WagonaudiavantdriftingIgnacio PerezIgnacioPerezs4videowagonThu, 19 Nov 2009 14:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Pole Dance: NHTSA to add new side-impact crash test? [w/VIDEO]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/18/pole-dance-nhtsa-to-add-new-side-impact-crash-test-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/18/pole-dance-nhtsa-to-add-new-side-impact-crash-test-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/18/pole-dance-nhtsa-to-add-new-side-impact-crash-test-w-video/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

NHTSA side-impact pole test - click above to watch the video

Not satisfied with cars that manage crash forces well enough to avoid spilling your drink, and engines that run so clean they'll barely asphyxiate ants, a new crash test is reportedly coming in the works from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Along with the test will come new dummies and new testing equipment, all of which means it's likely to have a big impact on future car designs. The side-impact pole test will simulate side collisions with objects like trees or telephone poles, a type of accident that current side-impact tests don't accurately simulate.

According to The New York Times, the new test will use a 10-inch round pole that will collide with the car at speeds of up to 20 mph. A 75-degree angle will be used, and the point of impact will be just aft of the A-pillar. Naturally, automakers won't have to pass the test all at once, the standard will be phased in. For 2011, 20 percent of an automaker's fleet will have to meet the standard and by 2014, the pole crash standard will be at 100 percent - all new cars will have to comply.

It's a change that could potentially change the face of auto design, the same way pedestrian impact standards in Europe have led to some peculiar front sheetmetal. Materials changes may also be employed to meet the regulation, with additional high-strength steel being substituted. The more conventional metals currently used are easier to form, while stronger metals require all sorts of hot pressing and tempering to be put into shape. Manufacturing cost will go up, which means prices will probably also increase, or profit will decrease while prices hold steady. Safe cars are a laudable goal, but how safe is safe enough? Follow the jump to see a video of how Ford's 2010 Mustang GT convertible and coupe models fare, then let us know what you think by leaving a comment.

[Source: The New York Times]

Continue reading Pole Dance: NHTSA to add new side-impact crash test? [w/VIDEO]

Pole Dance: NHTSA to add new side-impact crash test? [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 18 Nov 2009 14:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crash testcrash test videocrash test videoscrash testingcrash testsCrashTestCrashTestingCrashTestsCrashTestVideoCrashTestVideosfordford mustangford mustang crash testFordMustangFordMustangCrashTestmustangmustang crash testMustangCrashTestnhtsanhtsa standardnhtsa videoNhtsaStandardNhtsaVideopole impact crash testPoleImpactCrashTestvideovideosWed, 18 Nov 2009 14:56:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: McLaren releases first webisode of MP4-12C development]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/13/video-mclaren-releases-first-webisode-of-mp4-12c-development/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/13/video-mclaren-releases-first-webisode-of-mp4-12c-development/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/13/video-mclaren-releases-first-webisode-of-mp4-12c-development/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Inside McLaren: developing the MP4-12C - Click above to view the video after the jump

McLaren Automotive has just dropped a new video, the first in a series, that promises to show the story behind the company's upcoming MP4-12C supercar. This first episode gives us a peek at the car's development background, introduces us to some of the key players in the process, and even gives us a look at some of the key venues in the gestation of the new Lamborghini and Ferrari fighter from Woking.

This first short film, which you can find after the jump, is entitled: Inside McLaren: developing the MP4-12C. Pretty straightforward then, as is the dialogue. Technical Director Dick Glover takes us on a brief tour of McLaren's facilities - Racing, Electronics and Automotive, which he describes as the heart of the operation. He even points out the F1 simulator, where drivers and engineers have worked on race setups for the past 12 years. The MP4-12C team gets to play in there, too.

Next up is Chief Test Driver Chris Goodwin. He talks about the tracks and roads used in the development process, tracks like the Nürburgring Nordschleife and the Top Gear track at Dunsfold, which happens to be close to the McLaren facilities. Chris also gives us an idea of the extreme temperatures the 12C has been tested in, from the Arctic to Bahrain. Episode 1 wraps up with an introduction to some of the key engineers on the team, including Simon Andrew, Rob Tyers and Steve Hayes.

All of this is punctuated with glimpses of the 12C in action, which is why we're really all here in the first place. As cool as the McLaren facility is, the car is the star. Follow the jump for the video and full press release from McLaren.

[Source: McLaren]

Continue reading VIDEO: McLaren releases first webisode of MP4-12C development

VIDEO: McLaren releases first webisode of MP4-12C development originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 13 Nov 2009 15:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mclarenMcLaren MP4-12CMcLaren p11MclarenMp4-12cMclarenP11MP4-12CvideoFri, 13 Nov 2009 15:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Arcade Fire: Sega Outrun console being turned into driveable car [w/VIDEO]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/11/arcade-fire-sega-outrun-console-being-turned-into-driveable-car/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/11/arcade-fire-sega-outrun-console-being-turned-into-driveable-car/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/11/arcade-fire-sega-outrun-console-being-turned-into-driveable-car/#commentsFiled under: ,

Sega Outrun GPS video arcade console scooter -- Click above to view the video after the jump

When we hear the phrase "contemporary artist" we usually say, "Just show us what you're doing because there's little chance we'll understand rationale." Garnet Hertz, the artist in question, is combining a Sega Outrun arcade console with an EVT America Electric Trike (a three-wheeled scooter), an iPhone, and custom GPS software. The result will be a drivable arcade game -- like on the road at up to 20 mph -- that overlays Outrun graphics on live GPS maps.

The GPS software finds the vanishing point of the road and then, in the manner of Google Maps' hybrid setting, puts the Outrun Testarossa and road into the live-action setting. The iPhone's internals keep track of progress and keep the screen moving in 'real-time.'

If you really want to know the rationales, they are the "Un-Simulation of Driving," and "GPS Navigation Parallax & Mixed Reality." Make of those what you will, just know they involve "obfuscation." Sadly, deception and inveigling weren't mentioned. You can check out the video after the jump, which is mostly a guy holding a laptop walking away from the camera. Or you can check out the gallery of images below.


Gallery: Sega Outrun Arcade Console Scooter


[Source: Concept Lab via GameSetWatch]

Continue reading Arcade Fire: Sega Outrun console being turned into driveable car [w/VIDEO]

Arcade Fire: Sega Outrun console being turned into driveable car [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 11 Nov 2009 19:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artgamesoutrunsegasega outrunSegaOutrunvideovideogamesWed, 11 Nov 2009 19:28:00 EST<![CDATA[<i>Top Gear</i> in trouble for mock ad depicting suicide]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/10/top-gear-in-trouble-for-mock-ad-depicting-suicide/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/10/top-gear-in-trouble-for-mock-ad-depicting-suicide/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/10/top-gear-in-trouble-for-mock-ad-depicting-suicide/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Top Gear ad for the VW Scirocco -- Click above to view the video after the jump

It should be well known by now that if you play with suicide on screen, you're going to hear about it. Sometimes it's from prevention groups who want shows to "stop using suicide as a punchline." When it comes to Jeremy Clarkson, though, it isn't a question of whether he knows, but whether he cares. Probably not. But this time the complaint isn't from a health group, it's from the UK's television watchdog the Office of Communication (Ofcom).

Top Gear is in the crosshairs again -- in fact, the show is coming close to making more news for the news it makes than the cars it covers -- for depicting graphic violence before the 9 PM opening for such images. The show made a mock ad for the VW Scirocco that includes a slightly violent and lingering treatment of suicide, and fifty people complained about it. In a case of art predicting life, you can see the agency exec's reaction in the fauxmercial after the jump, and Captain Slow's tidy summation.

[Source: Times Online]

Continue reading Top Gear in trouble for mock ad depicting suicide

Top Gear in trouble for mock ad depicting suicide originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 10 Nov 2009 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>top gearTopGearukvideoTue, 10 Nov 2009 09:01:00 EST