Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Volkswagen pretends its Chinese hover car is real]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/25/volkswagen-pretends-its-chinese-hover-car-is-real/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/25/volkswagen-pretends-its-chinese-hover-car-is-real/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/25/volkswagen-pretends-its-chinese-hover-car-is-real/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

VW Hover Car

Last year, Volkswagen China began its People's Car Project, which gathered crowdsourced concepts for future VWs. Among the three concepts chosen from the submissions - the Music Car, a Beetle wrapped in LEDs that change colors to match the driver's choice of music; the Smart Key that can track the status of your car; and a a zero-emissions, two-seat Hover Car - it was the latter that earned a four-minute video showcasing its imagined technology.

The video posted below is the same one that was released three months ago, but it's now been subtitled so that we can actually follow what's happening. Turns out it doesn't feature the woman who designed the Hover Car, Wang Jia, but her parents, who take their daughter's creation for a spin around Chengdu. We're disappointed that they didn't stop for kung-fu tea. Scroll down to have a look for yourselves.

Continue reading Volkswagen pretends its Chinese hover car is real

Volkswagen pretends its Chinese hover car is real originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 25 Aug 2012 20:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beijingbeijing 2012beijing motor showconcept carhover carpeoples car projectsmart keyvideovideosvolkswagenwang jiayoutubeSat, 25 Aug 2012 20:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20309059/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/08/25/volkswagen-pretends-its-chinese-hover-car-is-real/20309059/article-detail.xml 20309059 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/vwpeoplecarvid_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/vwpeoplecarvid.jpg <![CDATA[China chastizes Beijing Motor Show over scantily clad models]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/17/china-chastizes-beijing-motor-show-over-scantily-clad-booth-prof/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/17/china-chastizes-beijing-motor-show-over-scantily-clad-booth-prof/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/17/china-chastizes-beijing-motor-show-over-scantily-clad-booth-prof/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,



Our post on China's "Tiger mom" phenomenon was illustrated with that above picture; it's the Jeep Wrangler Dragon Design Concept at the 2012 Beijing Motor Show, accompanied by a booth professional. The model - her, not the Jeep - made a fair few friends in the Autoblog Comments section, but it turns out she and her kind attracted the ire of the Chinese authorities.

The Capital Ethics Development Office gave the Beijing show organizers a caning because the "scantily clad" models had "a negative social impact," and the show was warned not to let "such vulgar publicity" occur again. There's a lot of room between that leather bustier and a burqa, however, so all's not lost for next year's show in Shanghai.

Scroll down to watch the Bloomberg video on the matter.

Continue reading China chastizes Beijing Motor Show over scantily clad models

China chastizes Beijing Motor Show over scantily clad models originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 17 May 2012 17:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auto show modelsbeijingbeijing 2012beijing motor showbooth babesbooth professionalscapital ethics development officechinaethicsmodelsshow modelsspokesmodelThu, 17 May 2012 17:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20239049/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/17/china-chastizes-beijing-motor-show-over-scantily-clad-booth-prof/20239049/article-detail.xml 20239049 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/beijingmodelstrouble_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/beijingmodelstrouble.jpg <![CDATA[Volkswagen's People's Car Project in China has produced three concepts [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/09/volkswagens-peoples-car-project-in-china-has-produced-three-co/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/09/volkswagens-peoples-car-project-in-china-has-produced-three-co/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/09/volkswagens-peoples-car-project-in-china-has-produced-three-co/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



In 2011, Volkswagen commenced its People's Car Project in China to create crowdsourced concepts of the VW of the future. More than 33 million people visited the site, and three concepts were created from the inputs: the Music Car, the Hover Car and the Smart Key.

The Music Car is a Beetle wrapped in LEDs that change colors to match the driver's choice of music. The Hover Car is a zero-emissions two-seater that, no surprise, hovers over electromagnetic road networks. The Smart Key is Big Brother for your car, in your pocket: the high-def touchscreen on the nine-millimeter key can track the status of your car and keep an eye on it via "satellite transmission."

The project is continuing, so you can still post your thoughts to VW's future. In the meantime there's a video and a couple of press releases below the fold for more on the story.

Continue reading Volkswagen's People's Car Project in China has produced three concepts [w/video]

Volkswagen's People's Car Project in China has produced three concepts [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 09 May 2012 08:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beijingbeijing 2012beijing motor showconcept carhover carmusic carpcppeoples car projectsmart keyvideovideosvolkswagenyoutubeWed, 09 May 2012 08:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20229413/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/09/volkswagens-peoples-car-project-in-china-has-produced-three-co/20229413/article-detail.xml 20229413 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/vwbeijing12concs_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/vwbeijing12concs.jpg <![CDATA[Renault says very little about its new Talisman sedan]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/27/renault-says-very-little-about-its-new-talisman-sedan/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/27/renault-says-very-little-about-its-new-talisman-sedan/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/27/renault-says-very-little-about-its-new-talisman-sedan/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Renault Talisman

The breadth and scope of the Chinese car market has ballooned to such an extent that it makes sense for many foreign automakers to design cars specifically for China. Case in point: the new Renault Talisman.

Instead of building the Talisman in China through a joint venture, manufacturing is handled in nearby Korea by Renault Samsung Motors - the same division that has already brought Renault eight awards and sales increasing fourfold since 2009 due to the success of the Koleos crossover.

As for the Talisman itself, Renault has releases suspiciously little information, and even less photos. It's billed as a "casual luxury" sedan, whatever that means, but more than that we couldn't tell you. Which is just fine, because unless you live in China, you'll probably never see one. Feel free to peruse the press release below.

Continue reading Renault says very little about its new Talisman sedan

Renault says very little about its new Talisman sedan originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 27 Apr 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 beijing motor showbeijingbeijing 2012beijing motor showrenaultrenault samsungrenault samsung motorsrenault talismantalismanFri, 27 Apr 2012 09:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20223269/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/27/renault-says-very-little-about-its-new-talisman-sedan/20223269/article-detail.xml 20223269 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/webtalisman_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/webtalisman.jpg <![CDATA[Acura NSX concept turns red in China]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/26/acura-nsx-concept-turns-red-in-china/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/26/acura-nsx-concept-turns-red-in-china/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/26/acura-nsx-concept-turns-red-in-china/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Acura NSX Concept in red - front three-quarter view

Hey look! A red version of the Acura NSX Concept for the Beijing Motor Show. Because it's China, you know. Get it? Red. As in "Red China."

And if that doesn't prove Acura is too clever by half, take a good look at the new photos of the red car in the gallery, then check out our related gallery, which has the first series of official images Acura PR released for the car's debut in January at Detroit.

If you're thinking that all that happened here was that someone clicked a few buttons in Photoshop, well... they wouldn't do that, would they? Well, yes, they probably would, but the NSX is actually on display at Auto China in crimson, too. Nifty.

Acura NSX concept turns red in China originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 26 Apr 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 acura nsxacuraauto chinabeijingbeijing 2012beijing motor showdetroit auto shownsxnsx conceptThu, 26 Apr 2012 14:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20224935/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/26/acura-nsx-concept-turns-red-in-china/20224935/article-detail.xml 20224935 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/acura-nsx-concept-at-beijing-motor-show01-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/acura-nsx-concept-at-beijing-motor-show01-opt.jpg <![CDATA[CH Auto's Lithia EV strikes an Audi-like profile in China]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/26/ch-autos-lithia-ev-strikes-an-audi-like-profile-in-china/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/26/ch-autos-lithia-ev-strikes-an-audi-like-profile-in-china/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/26/ch-autos-lithia-ev-strikes-an-audi-like-profile-in-china/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



There's a certain German sports car that the designers at CH Auto might have been dreaming about before they penned the Lithia. We don't think this kind of inspiration is anywhere near criminal, though, and before anyone broaches the topic of Chinese design, they should know that the CH Auto's design chief is an ex-General Motors man: Dan Darancou, who has work on the Buick Invicta Concept and the SEMA Chevrolet Camaro Black on his resume.

CH Auto helps automakers prepare cars for sale in China, from design through to engineering - part of Darancou's brief is to make sure those two departments work together. The Lithia, showed off at the Beijing Motor Show, has probably been done as a company calling card. Powered by lithium-ion batteries, the spec sheet claims a 150-kilometer range (93 miles).

CH Auto's Lithia EV strikes an Audi-like profile in China originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 26 Apr 2012 10:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audi r8beijing 2012beijing motor showch autoch auto lithiadan darancoulithiar8Thu, 26 Apr 2012 10:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20224500/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/26/ch-autos-lithia-ev-strikes-an-audi-like-profile-in-china/20224500/article-detail.xml 20224500 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/chautolithia_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/chautolithia.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota Dear Qin hatch, sedan foreshadow new global FWD models [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/24/toyota-dear-qin-hatch-sedan-foreshadow-new-global-fwd-models-w/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/24/toyota-dear-qin-hatch-sedan-foreshadow-new-global-fwd-models-w/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/24/toyota-dear-qin-hatch-sedan-foreshadow-new-global-fwd-models-w/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Toyota Dear Qin hatchback concept - on display in Beijing

Toyota Dear Qin sedan concept - on display in BeijingDetails on the pair of Dear Qin concepts that Toyota unveiled at the Beijing Motor Show this week are sparse, but they do hint at something interesting coming to every market where the Japanese automaker sells cars.

Calling them "global-strategic concepts," Toyota says the sedan and hatchback versions of the Dear Qin models have "a design aiming to attract more people to the user base." With that curious statement in mind, the first promotional video for the Dear Qin models (which you can watch by scrolling below) is both language- and information-free, emphasizing the design of the cars for a global audience. With explosions and lightning, of course.

Reports have said that Toyota is working on a new global, front-wheel drive model that is supposed to be launched in 2013. We can imagine these concepts foreshadowing those cars, and hope we get a pair of highly efficient compacts out of the design process. We'll skip the explosions and lightning, though.

Continue reading Toyota Dear Qin hatch, sedan foreshadow new global FWD models [w/video]

Toyota Dear Qin hatch, sedan foreshadow new global FWD models [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Apr 2012 18:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beijingbeijing 2012beijing motor showdear qintoyota concepttoyota dear qintoyota fwd compacetoyota qinTue, 24 Apr 2012 18:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20223277/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/24/toyota-dear-qin-hatch-sedan-foreshadow-new-global-fwd-models-w/20223277/article-detail.xml 20223277 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/toyota-dear-concept-hatchback-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/toyota-dear-concept-hatchback-628.jpg <![CDATA[Mercedes-Benz rolls in to Beijing in tricked-out Viano Vision Diamond]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/24/mercedes-benz-rolls-in-to-beijing-in-tricked-out-viano-vision-di/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/24/mercedes-benz-rolls-in-to-beijing-in-tricked-out-viano-vision-di/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/24/mercedes-benz-rolls-in-to-beijing-in-tricked-out-viano-vision-di/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Mercedes-Benz Viano Vision Diamond - front three-quarter view

Limousines? That's so last millennium. These days the pampered and rich in the know get chauffeured around in the back of pimped-out vans. Sure, they may look utilitarian on the outside, but inside, they're as luxe as a private jet. Mercedes-Benz has been at the forefront of the scene with its much-modified Sprinter vans, but that's not the only big box in its portfolio. And to drive that point home, the German automaker has just rolled in to Beijing with this tricked-out Viano.

Called the Viano Vision Diamond, the custom Benz wagon has a two-tone paint job that only hints at the Maybach-grade cabin that awaits inside. The windows (including the partition inside) have the same Magic Sky Control tinting technology as the roof on the new SL, the cabin is done up in Nappa leather (black for the chauffeur, white for the passengers), and the rear features reclining, temperature-controlled massage chairs, a champagne cooler with flutes, lighting, 40-inch flat screen and Bang & Olufsen sound system (all controlled by a specially-designed iOS app), wireless internet and diamond trim.

Drive us to the airport in one of these and we'd be inclined to just stay in the back, lapping up the luxury of it all. Instead, we'll just admire from afar in the high-res image gallery and press release after the jump.

Mercedes-Benz rolls in to Beijing in tricked-out Viano Vision Diamond originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Apr 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beijingbeijing 2012beijing motor showmercedesmercedes-benzmercedes-benz vianomercedes-benz viano vision diamondvianoTue, 24 Apr 2012 18:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20222237/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/24/mercedes-benz-rolls-in-to-beijing-in-tricked-out-viano-vision-di/20222237/article-detail.xml 20222237 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/webviano-diamond_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/webviano-diamond.jpg <![CDATA[Beijing Motor Show is further proof of China's automotive importance]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/24/beijing-motor-show-is-further-proof-of-chinas-automotive-import/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/24/beijing-motor-show-is-further-proof-of-chinas-automotive-import/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/24/beijing-motor-show-is-further-proof-of-chinas-automotive-import/#commentsFiled under: ,

Why The World's Top Automakers Are Flocking To Beijing

Beijing Motor Show

Beijing's government has had to resort to a registration lottery to hold down its growth.

Skip a couple years in China, as I had, and you're not likely to recognize it when you return, especially the capital city of Beijing. Peering out from my hotel, through the ever-present smog, new high-rises have transformed the landscape and even on the Sunday afternoon I arrived I could see and hear the construction crews at work across the city.

My first trip to China came shortly after General Motors opened its first joint venture assembly plant a dozen years ago. Back then, Beijing was a city of countless hutongs, the narrow alleys and neighborhoods where most residents once lived. Today, most of those traditional communities are gone, the few remaining ones hidden behind modern skyscrapers.

Those old streets never could have handled today's traffic. Not that the grand new boulevards and highways are coping much better. You can still find the odd rickshaw in tourist neighborhoods. And motorcycles and electric scooters are everywhere. But today, the automobile is king, and traffic is so thick the local government has had to resort to a registration lottery to hold down its growth.

Paul EisensteinPaul A. Eisenstein is Publisher of TheDetroitBureau.com and a 30-year veteran of the automotive beat. His editorials bring his unique perspective and deep understanding of the auto world to Autoblog readers on a regular basis.

Continue reading Beijing Motor Show is further proof of China's automotive importance

Beijing Motor Show is further proof of China's automotive importance originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Apr 2012 17:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beijingbeijing 2012beijing motor showchinaeisenstein on autoblogopinionPaul EisensteinThe Detroit BureauTue, 24 Apr 2012 17:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20222234/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/24/beijing-motor-show-is-further-proof-of-chinas-automotive-import/20222234/article-detail.xml 20222234 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/beijing-2012_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/beijing-2012.jpg <![CDATA[Autoblog Podcast #279]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/24/autoblog-podcast-279/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/24/autoblog-podcast-279/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/24/autoblog-podcast-279/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Lamborghini Urus, Beijing Motor Show, Scion xB and xD dropped, diesel vehicle sales up

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Episode #279 of the Autoblog Podcast is here, and this week, Chris, Dan, and Chris Paukert are joined by the phenomenon that is Jim Hall of 2953 Analytics to chat about the Lamborghini Urus, the Beijing Motor Show, the end of the Scion xB and xD, and the uptick in diesel vehicle sales. Your questions and comments power the end of the 'cast, and for those of you who hung with us live on our UStream channel, thanks for taking the time. We've embedded our Q&A module after the jump for you to scroll through and follow along, too. Thanks for listening!

Autoblog Podcast #279:
In the Autoblog Garage
2012 Infiniti G37XS Coupe
2012 BMW 328i
Long-Term 2011 Mini Cooper S Countryman


Hosts: Dan Roth, Chris Shunk, Chris Paukert
Runtime: 01:50:38
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Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #279

Autoblog Podcast #279 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Apr 2012 16:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2953 analyticsautoblog podcastautoblog podcast 279beijing motor showbmw 328diesel salesfeaturedinfiniti g37 coupejim halllamborghini urusscion xBscion xdTue, 24 Apr 2012 16:40:00 ESTAutoblog Podcast #279Autoblog01:50:38 http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20223170/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/24/autoblog-podcast-279/20223170/article-detail.xml 20223170 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota debuts China-only Yundong Shuangqing hybrid concept in Beijing]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/24/toyota-debuts-china-only-yundong-shuangqing-hybrid-concept/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/24/toyota-debuts-china-only-yundong-shuangqing-hybrid-concept/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/24/toyota-debuts-china-only-yundong-shuangqing-hybrid-concept/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Toyota Yundong Shuangqing hybrid concept - live Beijing reveal

It's not the most pronounceable model name, but that's not our problem, is it?

Toyota debuted its sharply styled Yundong Shuangqing hybrid concept at the Beijing Motor Show today, announcing that a production version will be sold in China at some point in the future. The Yundong Shuangqing was joined on stage by the Dear Qin compact and the GT 86 rear-wheel-drive sports car.

Toyota developed the Yundong Shuangqing's hybrid powertrain mainly at the automaker's research and development plant in Changshu, China. "We would like to put smiles on the faces of our Chinese customers with hybrid technology," Toyota President Akio Toyoda said in prepared remarks at the show. "I want the people of China to be able to experience the beauty of hybrid technology through a hybrid car born in China."

In 2005, China became the first place outside of Japan where the Prius hybrid was built when Sichuan FAW Toyota Motor Co. Ltd. started making the third-generation model. And two years ago, GAC Toyota Motor Co., which is in China's Guangdong Province, started making the Camry Hybrid.

Earlier this month, Honda said it would launch at least four hybrids specifically for the Chinese market under either its moniker or the Acura brand in order to capitalize on what's likely to be surging car sales in that country. Honda will introduce the CR-Z, Fit and Insight Hybrids in China later this year, and will likely sell its promised hybrid-powered Acura NSX sports car in China as well.

Continue reading Toyota debuts China-only Yundong Shuangqing hybrid concept in Beijing

Toyota debuts China-only Yundong Shuangqing hybrid concept in Beijing originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Apr 2012 16:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beijingbeijing 2012beijing motor showchinatoyotatoyota hybridtoyota yundong shuangqingYundong ShuangqingTue, 24 Apr 2012 16:21:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20223245/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/24/toyota-debuts-china-only-yundong-shuangqing-hybrid-concept/20223245/article-detail.xml 20223245 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/toyota-yundong-shuangqing-concept-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/toyota-yundong-shuangqing-concept-628.jpg <![CDATA[Bugatti unveils one-off porcelain-trimmed Veyron Grand Sport Wei Long edition in Beijing]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/24/bugatti-unveils-one-off-porcelain-trimmed-veyron-grand-sport-wei/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/24/bugatti-unveils-one-off-porcelain-trimmed-veyron-grand-sport-wei/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/24/bugatti-unveils-one-off-porcelain-trimmed-veyron-grand-sport-wei/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Wei Long 2012

It takes a lot to grow jaded at the thought of a one-of-a-kind, seven-figure, record-breaking supercar, but that's what's happened after this many years of special edition Bugattis. The latest: a unique version of the Grand Sport roadster created for the Beijing Motor Show and one lucky (read: obscenely wealthy) customer.

Called the Wei Long edition, this one-off Veyron celebrates the Year of the Dragon. It was born out of the same collaboration with Königliche Porzellan Manufaktur that gave us the previous blue-and-white marbled Grand Sport L'Or Blanc edition. Only this one is white with red trim.

Like what you see? It can be yours for €1.58 million - chump change over two million greenbacks. Scope it out in the high-res image gallery and the press release below.

Continue reading Bugatti unveils one-off porcelain-trimmed Veyron Grand Sport Wei Long edition in Beijing

Bugatti unveils one-off porcelain-trimmed Veyron Grand Sport Wei Long edition in Beijing originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Apr 2012 14:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beijingbeijing 2012beijing motor showbugattibugatti veyron grand sport wei longgrand sportveyronveyron grand sportveyron wei longwei longyear of the dragonTue, 24 Apr 2012 14:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20222899/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/24/bugatti-unveils-one-off-porcelain-trimmed-veyron-grand-sport-wei/20222899/article-detail.xml 20222899 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/web01-veyron-wei-long_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/web01-veyron-wei-long.jpg <![CDATA[Rolls-Royce makes room for updated Phantom Extended Wheelbase in Beijing]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/24/rolls-royce-makes-room-for-updated-phantom-extended-wheelbase-in/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/24/rolls-royce-makes-room-for-updated-phantom-extended-wheelbase-in/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/24/rolls-royce-makes-room-for-updated-phantom-extended-wheelbase-in/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2013 Rolls-Royce Phantom Extended-Wheelbase driving through city at night

Considering how short some product lifecycles have become, it boggles the mind to think that Rolls-Royce has had the Phantom on the market for nearly ten years now. And with the next-generation model not expected to arrive for another few years, the model that relaunched the brand under BMW ownership stands to reach its Bar Mitzvah before it's replaced. But in the meantime, Goodwood is keeping the Phantom fresh with the Series II update.

The revisions include a refreshed front end with new bumpers and adaptable LED headlamps, the latest in infotainment systems and a new eight-speed automatic transmission to help the 6.75-liter V12 marginally improve its emissions and fuel consumption figures.

New versions of the Phantom sedan, coupe and DHC convertible are already finding their way to eagerly awaiting (and obscenely wealthy) customers around the world, but Rolls opted to wait until the Beijing Motor Show to unveil the new Extended Wheelbase model. Particularly popular in the Chinese market where extra rear-seat legroom is deemed the pinnacle of luxury, the Phantom Series II Extended Wheelbase model measure a whopping 20 feet long.

That's more than a foot longer than the now-departed Ford Excursion, and you can check it out in the gallery of high-resolution images above.

Continue reading Rolls-Royce makes room for updated Phantom Extended Wheelbase in Beijing

Rolls-Royce makes room for updated Phantom Extended Wheelbase in Beijing originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Apr 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 rolls-royce phantom extended wheelbase2013 rolls-royce phantom series iibeijingbeijing 2012beijing motor showphantomrolls-roycerolls-royce phantom extended wheelbaserolls-royce phantom series iirolls-royce phantom series ii extended wheelbaseTue, 24 Apr 2012 14:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20221975/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/24/rolls-royce-makes-room-for-updated-phantom-extended-wheelbase-in/20221975/article-detail.xml 20221975 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/rolls-roycephanton-ii-ext-lead_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/rolls-roycephanton-ii-ext-lead.jpg <![CDATA[Aston Martin rolls out Dragon 88 special editions in Beijing]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/24/aston-martin-rolls-out-dragon-88-special-editions-in-beijing/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/24/aston-martin-rolls-out-dragon-88-special-editions-in-beijing/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/24/aston-martin-rolls-out-dragon-88-special-editions-in-beijing/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Aston Martin Virage Dragon 88 - front three-quarter studio image

Bentley, Rolls-Royce, Jaguar and Land Rover all unveiled new special editions at the Beijing Motor Show, and Aston Martin wouldn't miss the opportunity to join in their company. Hence the Dragon 88 Limited Edition.

A special trim level available on the DBS Volante, Virage Coupe and V8 Vantage S, the Dragon 88 range is outfitted at the hands of the Q by Aston Martin division that tricked out the matte-violet Virage we saw in Geneva. The Dragon 88 celebrates the Year of the Dragon with such special touches as 24-carat gold badges, embroidered headrests, special interior trim, commemorative sill plates and a choice of three unique exterior colors.

As the name implies, only 88 examples will be offered, exclusively in China, at an as-yet undisclosed price. Since your chances of ever seeing one up close, then, remains rather slim, the high-res image gallery above (joined by the press release after the jump) is probably your best shot.

Continue reading Aston Martin rolls out Dragon 88 special editions in Beijing

Aston Martin rolls out Dragon 88 special editions in Beijing originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Apr 2012 13:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aston martin dragonbeijingbeijing 2012beijing motor showdbsdragon 88v8 vantagev8 vantage svantagevirageyear of the dragonTue, 24 Apr 2012 13:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20222898/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/24/aston-martin-rolls-out-dragon-88-special-editions-in-beijing/20222898/article-detail.xml 20222898 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/webvirage88_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/webvirage88.jpg <![CDATA[Peugeot Urban Crossover Concept barges in to AutoChina]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/24/peugeot-urban-crossover-concept-barges-in-to-autochina/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/24/peugeot-urban-crossover-concept-barges-in-to-autochina/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/24/peugeot-urban-crossover-concept-barges-in-to-autochina/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Peugeot's Urban Crossover Concept - shadowy front three-quarter studio view

In keeping with the CUV-crazy theme of this year's Beijing Motor Show, Peugeot has introduced this Urban Crossover Concept penned by the French lion's design studios in Paris, Shanghai and São Paulo. Eight inches shorter and three inches narrower than a Ford Focus hatchback, the concept is meant to be the ultimate expression of the company's decades of popular small cars, crossovers and design.

It is also said to show off Pug's new design cues, but we aren't told exactly which cues those are. At the moment, Peugeot isn't talking about what (if anything) powers its UCC, but perhaps we'll learn more as the vehicle continues to make the rounds of the auto show circuit. In the meantime, check out the press release by scrolling below and admire its angles in the high-res gallery.

Continue reading Peugeot Urban Crossover Concept barges in to AutoChina

Peugeot Urban Crossover Concept barges in to AutoChina originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Apr 2012 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beijingbeijing 2012beijing motor showparis 2012paris motor showpeugeotpeugeot uccpeugeot urban crossover concepturban crossover conceptTue, 24 Apr 2012 10:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20222680/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/24/peugeot-urban-crossover-concept-barges-in-to-autochina/20222680/article-detail.xml 20222680 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/peugeoturbancuvconc_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/peugeoturbancuvconc.jpg <![CDATA[Volkswagen is living Lavida loca in Beijing]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/24/volkswagen-is-living-lavida-loca-in-beijing/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/24/volkswagen-is-living-lavida-loca-in-beijing/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/24/volkswagen-is-living-lavida-loca-in-beijing/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2013 Volkswagen Lavida

Volkswagen has taken the occasion of the Beijing Motor Show as opportunity to debut its latest sedan. Called the Lavida, it's the second-generation of a model produced in China specifically for the Chinese market.

Can't figure out what you're looking at? Call it a Chinese version of the Jetta, with which it shares its platform. Shanghai Volkswagen - the joint venture under which the Lavida is produced - had sold 700,000 units of the first-generation model from its introduction in 2008 through January 2012. The company surely hopes the new Lavida will sell even more. Read all about it in the press release below.

Continue reading Volkswagen is living Lavida loca in Beijing

Volkswagen is living Lavida loca in Beijing originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Apr 2012 08:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 beijing motor show2013 volkswagen lavidabeijingbeijing 2012beijing motor showlavidavolkswagenvolkswagen lavidavwTue, 24 Apr 2012 08:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20221467/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/24/volkswagen-is-living-lavida-loca-in-beijing/20221467/article-detail.xml 20221467 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/weblavida_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/weblavida.jpg <![CDATA[Audi unveils Q3 Jinlong Yufeng in Beijing]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/23/audi-unveils-q3-jinlong-yufeng-in-beijing/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/23/audi-unveils-q3-jinlong-yufeng-in-beijing/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/23/audi-unveils-q3-jinlong-yufeng-in-beijing/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Audi Q3 Jinlong Yufeng by the seashore - front three-quarter view

Audi has just unveiled a special concept version of the company's Q3 at this week's 2012 Beijing Motor Show to commemorate the year of the dragon. The 2012 Q3 Jinlong Yufeng, or "Golden Dragon In The Wind," caters to the kite surfers of the world thanks to its two roof-mounted carbon-fiber reinforced polymer boards and a clever kite pouch that can also be used to hold wet articles of clothing or serve as a beach umbrella. Designers have also thrown in a set of removable, wireless video cameras that can easily be attached to a sail bar or helmet.

The Q3 Jinlong Yufeng wears Liuli Yellow paint outside as well as a few special off-road body components based on production pieces. Brushed stainless steel running boards, LED spotlights mounted in the grille and integrated dual-exit exhaust are all part of the package. Indoors, designers have stitched the vehicle's surfaces with yellow contrasting thread. The seats use woven leather covers and each door panel features a yellow leather insert.

A turbocharged 2.5-liter direct-injection five-cylinder engine delivers 310 horsepower through a seven-speed transmission and Quattro all-wheel drive - enough, Audi says,to power the Q3 Jinlong Yufeng to 62 mph in 5.5 seconds. Hit the jump for the full press release.

Continue reading Audi unveils Q3 Jinlong Yufeng in Beijing

Audi unveils Q3 Jinlong Yufeng in Beijing originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 23 Apr 2012 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audiaudi cuvaudi of chinaaudi q3audi q3 jinlong yufengbeijingbeijing 2012beijing motor showchinaconceptjinlong yufengq3Mon, 23 Apr 2012 19:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20221836/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/23/audi-unveils-q3-jinlong-yufeng-in-beijing/20221836/article-detail.xml 20221836 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/01-audi-q3-jinlong-yufeng628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/01-audi-q3-jinlong-yufeng628.jpg <![CDATA[Rolls-Royce showcases Ghost Six Senses concept in Beijing]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/23/rolls-royce-showcases-ghost-six-senses-concept-in-beijing/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/23/rolls-royce-showcases-ghost-six-senses-concept-in-beijing/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/23/rolls-royce-showcases-ghost-six-senses-concept-in-beijing/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Rolls-Royce Ghost Six Senses - front three-quarter studio shot

"Stock" is a relative term. Stock cars, for example, like those raced in NASCAR, are anything but showroom stock. And at the opposite end of the spectrum, "stock" is just the starting point when ordering a new Rolls-Royce. The high-end marque offers its customers a virtually endless array of personalization options, and to drive that point, home Rolls-Royce is showcasing the show car seen here at this week's Beijing Motor Show.

Called the Six Senses concept, this specially equipped Ghost is designed to stimulate each of the five senses - sight, sound, scent, taste and touch - and proffers the singular luxury of a Rolls-Royce as the sixth sense. Sure beats seeing dead people.

The concept is painted in pearlescent Carrara White, with unique forged alloys and an interior decked out in walnut burr veneer, deep-pile lambswool carpeting (even in the trunk), leather headliner with panoramic sunroof, an upgraded sound system and champagne cooler. Check it out in the gallery above and follow the jump for the details in the press release.

Continue reading Rolls-Royce showcases Ghost Six Senses concept in Beijing

Rolls-Royce showcases Ghost Six Senses concept in Beijing originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 23 Apr 2012 18:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 beijing motor showbeijingbeijing 2012beijing motor showghostrolls-roycerolls-royce ghostrolls-royce ghost six sensesrolls-royce ghost six senses conceptMon, 23 Apr 2012 18:40:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20221976/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/23/rolls-royce-showcases-ghost-six-senses-concept-in-beijing/20221976/article-detail.xml 20221976 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/webrolls-royceghost-senses3_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/webrolls-royceghost-senses3.jpg <![CDATA[Chrysler marks return to China with 300 Ruyi design concept]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/23/chrysler-marks-return-to-china-with-300-ruyi-design-concept/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/23/chrysler-marks-return-to-china-with-300-ruyi-design-concept/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/23/chrysler-marks-return-to-china-with-300-ruyi-design-concept/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Chrysler 300 Ruyi design concept - shadowy studio shot

Considering the rate at which the Chinese market gobbles up Buick models, you'd think it would be a prime market for Chrysler. Yet the House of the 300 wasn't present in China at all in recent years, as the brand has just announced at the Beijing Motor Show its return to the Chinese market.

In the coming months, it will begin selling both the 300C and the Grand Voyager, and to mark the occasion it has presented a special design concept of its top-of-the-line sedan. Much like sister-brand Jeep adopted the dragon symbol for its special-edition Wrangler, the Chrysler brand went with the Ruyi - a scepter-like object symbolizing prosperity and good fortune - for its 300 show car.

The design concept is distinguished by unique ten-spoke 22-inch wheels, dark chrome trim to complement the black paint and tone-on-tone "speed stripe," aero kit, custom grille, tinted glass and special badging. Meanwhile the interior is done up in a variety of metal finishes, with French-stitched beige suede and leather upholstery. Check it out in the gallery above and the press release by scrolling below.

Continue reading Chrysler marks return to China with 300 Ruyi design concept

Chrysler marks return to China with 300 Ruyi design concept originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 23 Apr 2012 18:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>300300 ruyi300cbeijingbeijing 2012beijing motor showchryslerchrysler 300chrysler 300 ruyichrysler 300 ruyi design conceptchrysler 300cruyiMon, 23 Apr 2012 18:20:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20221712/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/23/chrysler-marks-return-to-china-with-300-ruyi-design-concept/20221712/article-detail.xml 20221712 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/web300ruyi_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/web300ruyi.jpg <![CDATA[Audi tries hand at luxury PHEVs with A6 L e-tron concept]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/23/audi-tries-hand-at-luxury-phevs-with-a6-l-e-tron-concept/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/23/audi-tries-hand-at-luxury-phevs-with-a6-l-e-tron-concept/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/23/audi-tries-hand-at-luxury-phevs-with-a6-l-e-tron-concept/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Audi A6 L e-tron Concept - tight three-quarter view

Audi has finally spread its plug-in hybrid technology to the A6 L. The German automaker unveiled the A6 L e-Tron technology study on Monday at the 2012 Beijing Motor Show, complete with an all-electric driving range of nearly 50 miles at 37 mph. Liquid-cooled lithium-ion batteries power the 95-horsepower electric motor, though a 211-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder can step in at any time for more acceleration or additional range. The A6 L e-tron can operate in fully-electric, hybrid or gasoline mode as needed. While the A6 L e-tron concept is technically an engineering study at the moment, Audi does admit the sedan could indicate what a Chinese-built A6 hybrid could look like in the future.

The cabin offers buyers the same level of space and comfort as the internal-combustion A6 L, though a new instrument panel and vehicle information display conveys data on battery charge status, range and available drive system power. Audi's engineers have have also specifically calibrated the sedan's MMI touch system to recognize 29,000 Chinese characters, which we can only imagine was no mean feat. Scroll below for the full press release.

Continue reading Audi tries hand at luxury PHEVs with A6 L e-tron concept

Audi tries hand at luxury PHEVs with A6 L e-tron concept originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 23 Apr 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a6a6 l e-tronaudiaudi a6audi a6 l e-tronbeijingbeijing 2012beijing motor showe-tronhybridplug-inplug-in hybridMon, 23 Apr 2012 18:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20221981/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/23/audi-tries-hand-at-luxury-phevs-with-a6-l-e-tron-concept/20221981/article-detail.xml 20221981 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/01-audi-a6-e-tron-concept-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/01-audi-a6-e-tron-concept-628.jpg -1 2