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[GM gives $100k to Red Cross for Texas-like emergencies]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/24/gm-gives-100k-to-red-cross-for-texas-like-emergencies/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/24/gm-gives-100k-to-red-cross-for-texas-like-emergencies/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/24/gm-gives-100k-to-red-cross-for-texas-like-emergencies/#commentsFiled under: ,



The General Motors Foundation has provided a $100,000 grant to the American Red Cross to assist with relief efforts in West, Texas. Last Wednesday, the fertilizer plant in the town of 2,800 people caught fire and then exploded, the blowup registering as a 2.1-magnitude earthquake and felt up to 45 miles away. Fourteen people died, ten of them the firefighters and first responders who were there to put out the fire and get people to safety, 200 people were injured and entire blocks of the town were destroyed.

The GM Foundation grant will keep the Red Cross able to respond quickly to disasters in The Lone Star State, the incident in West being just one of the 6,000 annual efforts that the Red Cross makes in Texas alone.

A press release below has more information on the grant and the history of the foundation.

Continue reading GM gives $100k to Red Cross for Texas-like emergencies

GM gives $100k to Red Cross for Texas-like emergencies originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 24 Apr 2013 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>american red crosscharitygeneral motorsgmgm foundationgrantphilanthropyred crosstexaswestwest texasWed, 24 Apr 2013 18:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20547634/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/24/gm-gives-100k-to-red-cross-for-texas-like-emergencies/20547634/article-detail.xml 20547634 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/plant-explosion-texas-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/plant-explosion-texas-628.jpg <![CDATA[Wonder Woman Kia Sportage is anything but invisible]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/28/wonder-woman-kia-sportage-is-anything-but-invisible/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/28/wonder-woman-kia-sportage-is-anything-but-invisible/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/28/wonder-woman-kia-sportage-is-anything-but-invisible/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Wonder Woman Kia Sportage - live at 2013 NY Auto Show

The spectacular partnering of Kia and DC Entertainment (the company we grew up loving as DC Comics) continues here at the New York Auto Show, with this Wonder Woman-inspired 2013 Kia Sportage. Ardent Autoblog readers will undoubtedly remember the fruits of earlier Kia/DC efforts: Batman Optima, Flash Forte Koup, Green Lantern Soul, Cyborg Forte, Aquaman Rio and Superman Optima Hybrid. (We're still trying to figure out who Cyborg is, too.)

The Wonder Woman Sportage, sporting the Amazing Amazon's particularly patriotic livery, is perhaps the most, eh, eye-catching super-Kia to date. (Actually, no, none of the superhero rides seared our eyeballs like Supe's hybrid.) Red, white and blue paint with spangled sides, an aggressively low body kit and a WW logo grille really sell the theme. Of course, The Lasso of Truth is represented too, showing up in the design as a subtle gold line that wraps around the bodywork.

As with the earlier DC concept cars, the Wonder Woman Sportage's real goal - aside from entertaining the kid-contingent of auto show goers - is to raise awareness for the We Can Be Heroes charity. The DC charitable program seeks to raise money and awareness about the hunger crisis in Ethiopia, Kenya and Somalia. Get a better look at Wonder Woman's crossover in our attached galleries and find the Kia press release below.

Continue reading Wonder Woman Kia Sportage is anything but invisible

Wonder Woman Kia Sportage is anything but invisible originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 28 Mar 2013 14:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 kia sportage2013 new york auto showcharitydc comicsdc entertainmentkiakia sportagenew yorknew york auto showwe can be heroeswonder womanwonder woman kia sportageThu, 28 Mar 2013 14:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20521632/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/28/wonder-woman-kia-sportage-is-anything-but-invisible/20521632/article-detail.xml 20521632 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/wonder-woman-kia-sportage-ny_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/wonder-woman-kia-sportage-ny.jpg <![CDATA[Ram raises a quick $1 million for farmers with Super Bowl ad]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/10/ram-raises-a-quick-1-million-for-farmers-with-super-bowl-ad/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/10/ram-raises-a-quick-1-million-for-farmers-with-super-bowl-ad/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/10/ram-raises-a-quick-1-million-for-farmers-with-super-bowl-ad/#commentsFiled under: , ,



While Chrysler has been behind the Super Bowl's most talked-about commercials for the past few years, this is the first year the automaker has added an element of charity to its marketing plans for the big game.

Chrysler aired a pair of two-minutes ads during the Super Bowl this year, one for Jeep called Whole Again, and the other for the Ram brand called Farmer. As we mentioned earlier in the week, Jeep has promised to give up to $300,000 to the United Services Organization (USO). The brand, whose own history is forever tied to this country's military, will donate $1 for every tweet with the hashtag #joinOSR, or visit to Yahoo.com or the Jeep Operation SAFE Return website.

Ram had somewhat loftier goals, pledging to give up to $1 million to the Future Farmers of America. The plan was to donate $100,000 for every 1 million times the commercial was seen, shared or emailed from its website. Now we have word from Ram brand chief Fred Diaz that the million-dollar goal has been reached less than five days after the ad first aired.

The ad has reportedly done wonders for Ram, as well, with traffic to its website up ten-fold and dealers reporting their showrooms are fuller than before, sometimes with people who just want to say how much the ad had touched them. If you feel moved to watch the ad again, feel free to scroll down below for the video.

Continue reading Ram raises a quick $1 million for farmers with Super Bowl ad

Ram raises a quick $1 million for farmers with Super Bowl ad originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 10 Feb 2013 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>charitydonationfarmerfuture farmers of americaramsuper bowlSun, 10 Feb 2013 13:15:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20454303/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/10/ram-raises-a-quick-1-million-for-farmers-with-super-bowl-ad/20454303/article-detail.xml 20454303 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/ram-ad-farmer_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/ram-ad-farmer.jpg <![CDATA[Superman-inspired Kia Optima Hybrid helps those affected by drought and famine in Africa]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/07/2013-kia-optima-hybrid-superman-concept-chicago-2013/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/07/2013-kia-optima-hybrid-superman-concept-chicago-2013/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/07/2013-kia-optima-hybrid-superman-concept-chicago-2013/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2013 Kia Optima Hybrid Superman concept - live at 2013 Chicago Auto Show reveal

Kia, DC Entertainment and Super Street magazine worked as a team to develop this one-of-a-kind Superman-themed Optima Hybrid that made its debut at the Chicago Auto Show today. The joint effort is designed to raise awareness for DC Entertainment's "We Can Be Heroes" campaign, a charitable relief effort to bring help and hope to people affected by drought and famine in the Horn of Africa.

The metallic blue and red sedan, which thankfully manages to look better in person than it does in the pictures, is the seventh vehicle in a 10-month partnership between the automaker, comic book company and tuner as they build themed vehicles representing all of the Justice League heros. A yet-unseen eighth vehicle will be an amalgamation of all seven Super Heroes in one.

There is no mistaking the blue metallic finish with red chrome accents, or the world's most recognizable superhero's chest emblem glowing on the hood, but you have to look closer to see the Superman logo on the rear fascia and catch the red glow from the headlights. The theme has been carried into the cabin, where occupants will find custom upholstery and Superman's iconic shield on the seats and airbag cover. While the hybrid sedan's gasoline-electric powertrain remains untouched, the Optima features flared fenders, oversize 22-inch wheels and a height-adjustable suspension that is controlled from the cockpit. Read more in the official press blast below.

Continue reading Superman-inspired Kia Optima Hybrid helps those affected by drought and famine in Africa

Superman-inspired Kia Optima Hybrid helps those affected by drought and famine in Africa originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 07 Feb 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 kia optimacharitychicagochicago 2013chicago auto showdc entertainmenthorn of africakiaoptimaoptima hybridsupermanwe can be herosThu, 07 Feb 2013 18:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20452820/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/07/2013-kia-optima-hybrid-superman-concept-chicago-2013/20452820/article-detail.xml 20452820 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/optima62830_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/optima62830.jpg <![CDATA[eBay Find Of The Day: Chevrolet Corvette Stingray press kit for charity]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/16/ebay-find-of-the-day-chevrolet-corvette-stingray-press-kit-for/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/16/ebay-find-of-the-day-chevrolet-corvette-stingray-press-kit-for/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/16/ebay-find-of-the-day-chevrolet-corvette-stingray-press-kit-for/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Members of the motoring press who were invited to the 2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray reveal all left with a pretty sweet press kit. The individually numbered black box within a black box contained not only a chunky little flash drive, but a paperweight adorned with an actual Stingray badge.

Before we even left the press reveal, at least one had popped up on eBay. There are several there now, including one being auctioned by Chevrolet for charity. Chevy's auction features number 1 of the 2,014 produced. Not only that, but the interior black box has been signed by "key GM executives."

With just about a half a day left on the timer, the bidding has reached more than $1,500 for this piece of rare Vette memorabilia. Considering it's the first kit in the series and the money will go to the American Cancer Society, we can't really argue with the steep price. Happy bidding, Corvette fans.

eBay Find Of The Day: Chevrolet Corvette Stingray press kit for charity originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Jan 2013 08:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 detroit auto show2014 chevrolet corvetteauctionc7charitychevroletchevrolet corvette stingraychevroletcorvettestingraychevychevy corvette stingraychevycorvettestingraycorvettecorvette stingraycorvettestingraydetroitdetroit 2013ebaypress kitpresskitstingrayWed, 16 Jan 2013 08:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20428750/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/16/ebay-find-of-the-day-chevrolet-corvette-stingray-press-kit-for/20428750/article-detail.xml 20428750 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/c7-presskit-ebay_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/c7-presskit-ebay.jpg <![CDATA[Truck decked out in festive lights gets owner a ticket for Christmas [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/15/truck-decked-out-in-festive-lights-gets-owner-a-ticket-for-chris/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/15/truck-decked-out-in-festive-lights-gets-owner-a-ticket-for-chris/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/15/truck-decked-out-in-festive-lights-gets-owner-a-ticket-for-chris/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Truck in Christmas lights

Nobody likes getting a ticket from the police, but a $300 fine given to David Hill of Wichita, KS could prove to be some of the cheapest PR a charity could receive. Hill had his Ford F-350 Super Duty covered in 856 Christmas lights to help raise awareness to his charity, One Spark Can Start a Fire, when a Wichita police officer pulled him over and ticketed him for being a distraction on the road and illegally displaying red and blue lights on a vehicle (although it's hard to believe that anyone could confuse this truck for any sort of emergency vehicle).

The lights were attached to the truck using magnets and powered by an 8,000-Watt generator mounted in the bed of the truck. The lights are a great way to draw local attention to his charity, but Hill sees the ticket as a way he can draw even more attention to One Spark, which is a non-profit organization intent on performing random acts of kindness such as collecting clothes and providing food for the homeless, according to the organization's Facebook page.

Be sure to scroll down to watch the news report video, and check out Hill's charitable cause here.

Continue reading Truck decked out in festive lights gets owner a ticket for Christmas [w/video]

Truck decked out in festive lights gets owner a ticket for Christmas [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 15 Dec 2012 16:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>charitydavid hillf-350fordone spark can start a firepolicesuper dutySat, 15 Dec 2012 16:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20401542/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/15/truck-decked-out-in-festive-lights-gets-owner-a-ticket-for-chris/20401542/article-detail.xml 20401542 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/lights-truck_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/lights-truck.jpg <![CDATA[Chrysler to start charity foundation to honor Marchionne]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/08/chrysler-to-start-charity-foundation-to-honor-marchionne/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/08/chrysler-to-start-charity-foundation-to-honor-marchionne/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/08/chrysler-to-start-charity-foundation-to-honor-marchionne/#commentsFiled under: ,

Sergio Marchione

Chrysler is moving to start a charity in honor of CEO Sergio Marchionne. The company's board of directors has voted to create a foundation to grant educational awards. Ronald Thompson, Chrysler's lead director, said the charity is a fitting tribute to Marchionne and all he has accomplished since coming to the American manufacturer.

"This foundation will ensure that the values and impact of his leadership will be felt by many others," Thompson said.

Marchionne, meanwhile, acknowledged that the charity will allow Chrysler to support causes that dovetail with the values of the company, including "the educational needs and ambitions of our employees' children." Chrysler will begin making its first contributions to the charity in 2013 and will award its first scholarships in 2014. You can take a look at the full press release below for more information.

Continue reading Chrysler to start charity foundation to honor Marchionne

Chrysler to start charity foundation to honor Marchionne originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 08 Dec 2012 11:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>charitychryslerchrysler charitymarchionnesergio marchionneSat, 08 Dec 2012 11:06:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20395892/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/08/chrysler-to-start-charity-foundation-to-honor-marchionne/20395892/article-detail.xml 20395892 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/sergio-smiling_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/sergio-smiling.jpg <![CDATA[Ferrari F12 Berlinetta auction raises $1.5M for Hurricane Sandy relief]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/19/ferrari-f12-berlinetta-auction-raises-1-5m-for-hurricane-sandy/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/19/ferrari-f12-berlinetta-auction-raises-1-5m-for-hurricane-sandy/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/19/ferrari-f12-berlinetta-auction-raises-1-5m-for-hurricane-sandy/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Ferrari F12 Berlinetta Auction

Ferrari has managed to raise $1.5 million for victims of Hurricane Sandy during an auction in Austin, Texas for the very first F12 Berlinetta in the US. The funds will go to the American Red Cross and be earmarked for Hurricane Sandy relief. Ferrari started bidding on the F12 at $315,888, but the most powerful production model from the company fetched $1.125 million by the time the gavel fell through bids sourced both in person and over the phone. The company also managed to raise a further $345,000 in in-kind donations before the auction began, and donors gave an additional $50,000 during the event itself.

Ferrari debuted the F12 Berlinetta at the 2012 Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance, and the company is set to deliver its first model to a US customer in the second quarter of 2013. The automaker reminds its fans that it is still possible to donate to the Hurricane Sandy relief fund by visiting a special Ferrari section of the American Red Cross page. You can take a closer look at the full press release below for more information.

Continue reading Ferrari F12 Berlinetta auction raises $1.5M for Hurricane Sandy relief

Ferrari F12 Berlinetta auction raises $1.5M for Hurricane Sandy relief originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 19 Nov 2012 17:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 ferrari f12 berlinettaamerican red crosscharitycharity auctionf12f12 berlinettaf12berlinettaferrarihurricane sandyred crosssandyMon, 19 Nov 2012 17:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20383257/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/19/ferrari-f12-berlinetta-auction-raises-1-5m-for-hurricane-sandy/20383257/article-detail.xml 20383257 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/f12-berlinetta-auction-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/f12-berlinetta-auction-628.jpg <![CDATA[Ferrari auctioning first F12 Berlinetta in North America for Sandy relief]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/09/ferrari-auctioning-first-f12berlinetta-in-north-america-for-sand/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/09/ferrari-auctioning-first-f12berlinetta-in-north-america-for-sand/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/09/ferrari-auctioning-first-f12berlinetta-in-north-america-for-sand/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Ferrari F12berlinetta at speed on track

Stop lurking around your local Ferrari retailer, as the first F12 Berlinetta set to arrive on North American soil won't be sold through traditional channels. Instead, the Italian automaker will auction off its all-new flagship in Texas next weekend in an effort to help victims of Hurricane Sandy. According to Ferrari, proceeds from the special event will be donated directly to the American Red Cross (the money will be earmarked specifically to support the relief efforts).

The special Ferrari will be painted in Rosso Berlinetta with choice of black or cuoio (read: camel) upholstery. Special options will be available (e.g., the buyer may ask for its hood to be signed by F1 drivers) and the coupe will be delivered with an official letter recognizing its status as the first in North America. As an added benefit, the new owner may attend the Ferrari Corso Pilota driving course at a location of their choice (Fiorano, Italy or Mont-Tremblant, Canada).

Those looking to get in on the action should contact their local Ferrari dealership to bid in person, absentee or over the telephone. For those who can't swing the $300,000-plus price tag, Ferrari has also set up a special Ferrari-American Red Cross contribution page.

Ferrari auctioning first F12 Berlinetta in North America for Sandy relief originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 09 Nov 2012 18:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 ferrari f12 berlinetta2013 ferrari f12berlinettaamerican red crosscharityf12f12 berlinettaf12berinettaf12berlinettaferrariferrari auctionferrari f12berlinettared crossFri, 09 Nov 2012 18:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20375560/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/09/ferrari-auctioning-first-f12berlinetta-in-north-america-for-sand/20375560/article-detail.xml 20375560 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/23-2013-ferrari-f12628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/23-2013-ferrari-f12628.jpg <![CDATA[Kia under fire for "likes for food" Facebook promo [w/poll]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/29/kia-under-fire-for-likes-for-food-facebook-promo-w-poll/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/29/kia-under-fire-for-likes-for-food-facebook-promo-w-poll/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/29/kia-under-fire-for-likes-for-food-facebook-promo-w-poll/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Kia, like just about every other business, is trying hard to find its way in the ever-evolving world of social media. Some might say the Korean automaker is trying too hard, though, judging by responses to its new Facebook campaign. The initiative was born out of an attempt to build the company's Facebook likes, while at the same time raising money for charity with a program called "1 Like = 1Day Food for 1 Family."

Kia's Facebook campaign asked users to click on the social media site's ubiquitous thumbs-up "Like" button. In return, the carmaker promised that for every like, it would donate a day's worth of food for a whole family of starving refugees in Sudan through charity World Vision.

The effort garnered Kia almost 4,000 likes and, presumably, 4,000 days-worth of food for hungry refugees. But it's also gotten dozens of derisive comments calling Kia's campaign words like "disgraceful" and "sickening." The big objection to the effort is the idea that Kia is looking to boost brand awareness by taking advantage of people's charitable impulses. As one commenter said, "Either donate or don't... the emotional blackmail... is sickening." Another said, "If you really care, Kia, just help them anyway and don't boast about it for your own brand awareness."

Kia says it has been caught off guard by the criticism and "...did not anticipate this type of interpretation." The company has since changed the link on their Facebook page from the like button to a World Vision link.

University of Canberra social media researcher Julie Posetti tells stuff.co.nz that campaigns like this always have "potential for backlash."

"Bottom line: it's rarely a good look to try to leverage potential customers' social concern for hungry, war-orphaned children in the interests of advertising clout," Posetti said.

How do you feel about Kia's campaign? Cast your vote in our poll below, then speak your mind in Comments.


View Poll

Kia under fire for "likes for food" Facebook promo [w/poll] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 29 Oct 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1 day food for 1 familycharityfacebookkiakia facebooksocial mediasudanworld visionMon, 29 Oct 2012 11:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20363812/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/29/kia-under-fire-for-likes-for-food-facebook-promo-w-poll/20363812/article-detail.xml 20363812 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/kia-like-for-food_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/kia-like-for-food.jpg <![CDATA[Batman-inspired Kia Optima concept headed for Gotham reveal]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/11/batman-inspired-kia-optima-concept-headed-for-gotham-reveal/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/11/batman-inspired-kia-optima-concept-headed-for-gotham-reveal/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/11/batman-inspired-kia-optima-concept-headed-for-gotham-reveal/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,



DC Entertainment is leading a charity campaign called "We Can Be Heroes" to raise awareness of hunger in The Horn of Africa. With help from artist Jim Lee and Rides magazine, Kia has joined the Justice League with a Batman-themed Optima SX apparently inspired by the Dark Knight's darkest nights.

Looking like Batman went to SEMA, a set of coilovers gets the Optima SX hunkered down over an intense bodykit and 20-inch wheels. The exterior is done in matte black and piano black, but a carpet of yellow LEDs will make sure it never gets lost in the night - they even shine from behind the massive brakes, the Batwing-shaped grille and the HID headlights etched with the Bat-Signal. The interior gets lots of black leather with Batman logos, "utility throwing stars" in the console and a Batsuit and cowl in the trunk.

The one-off Kia will be unveiled in Gotham City, and it's the first of eight custom Kias playing doppelgangers to DC characters. There's more about it in the press release below, and NYC's Time Warner Center is where you want to be to see it in person.

Continue reading Batman-inspired Kia Optima concept headed for Gotham reveal

Batman-inspired Kia Optima concept headed for Gotham reveal originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 11 Oct 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 kia optimabatmancharitydc comicsdc entertainmenthorn of africakianew yorkoptimaoptima sxphilanthropythe dark knighttime warner centerwe can be heroesThu, 11 Oct 2012 13:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20347469/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/11/batman-inspired-kia-optima-concept-headed-for-gotham-reveal/20347469/article-detail.xml 20347469 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/batmankiaoptima_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/batmankiaoptima.jpg <![CDATA[Mini Canada's former ad agency selling one last car]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/14/ex-mini-ad-agency-selling-one-last-car-on-its-way-out/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/14/ex-mini-ad-agency-selling-one-last-car-on-its-way-out/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/14/ex-mini-ad-agency-selling-one-last-car-on-its-way-out/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



It isn't always kittens and cotton candy when a client splits with an advertising agency, especially at the end of a long relationship. If either side makes a statement at all, it's usually full of platitudes and the kind of celebrity divorce tone that leads you to wonder, "What happened there?"

There's none of that after Mini Canada separated from its agency of ten years, Taxi in Toronto - well, almost none of it. Instead, Taxi is taking its own 2008 Mini, the one it displayed in its boardroom, for one final publicity splurge by auctioning it on eBay and donating the proceeds to Toronto's Covenant House. It is an excellent way to go.

At the time of writing the bidding is up to $10,500 Canadian (about the same in U.S. dollars). Have a look below for a few samples of Taxi's work for Mini over the years, and head over to eBay to get in on the charity action.

Continue reading Mini Canada's former ad agency selling one last car

Mini Canada's former ad agency selling one last car originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 14 Jul 2012 16:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ad agencyadvertisingauctioncanadacharityebayminitaxitaxi ad agencytaxi of torontoSat, 14 Jul 2012 16:02:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20276511/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/07/14/ex-mini-ad-agency-selling-one-last-car-on-its-way-out/20276511/article-detail.xml 20276511 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/taximini_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/taximini.jpg <![CDATA[From Prague to Mongolia in an abused Renault Kangoo]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/30/from-prague-to-mongolia-in-an-abused-renault-kangoo/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/30/from-prague-to-mongolia-in-an-abused-renault-kangoo/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/30/from-prague-to-mongolia-in-an-abused-renault-kangoo/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Last Rat Renault Kangoo Mongol Rally

If you haven't heard of the Mongol Rally, we suggest you acquaint yourself. The charity event starts in Europe and ends in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. Unlike most rallies, there is no defined route or support staff. Participants must simply survive long enough to make it to the finish line in one piece. That would be challenging enough in a well-equipped off roader like a Nissan Patrol or Toyota Hilux, but those who take up the challenge must do so in either a vehicle with an engine displacing no more than 1.2 liters or an emergency services vehicle like an ambulance or fire truck.

At the end of the rally, the surviving vehicles are either auctioned or donated to cash-strapped local organizations. This year, New Yorkers Ota Ulc and Nick Jarret have partnered with Prague local Karel Vancura in an attempt to trace the 10,000 miles from Prague to Mongolia in a Renault Kangoo. The "Last Rat to Mongolia" team bought their car sight-unseen and have outfitted the quirky little van for the trek with the help of a local mechanic. Skid plates, rally lights, a roof rack and a gaggle of jerry cans are all part of the plan.

A total of 300 teams will attempt the continental crossing, each supporting their own charities along the way. The Last Rats are raising funds for UNICEF and Lotus Children's Centre Charitable Trust. You can follow their progress on Facebook or at the Mongol Rally site, and can kick them a couple of bucks via the team's JustGiving site. What else are you going to use the money for? Another coffee?

From Prague to Mongolia in an abused Renault Kangoo originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 30 Jun 2012 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>charitylast rat to mongolialotus childrens centre trustmongol rallymongol rally 2012mongoliapraguerallyunicefSat, 30 Jun 2012 14:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20263251/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/06/30/from-prague-to-mongolia-in-an-abused-renault-kangoo/20263251/article-detail.xml 20263251 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/last-rat-kangoo-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/last-rat-kangoo-628.jpg <![CDATA[Ferrari holding online auction to benefit Italian earthquake victims]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/31/ferrari-holding-online-auction-to-benefit-italian-earthquake-vic/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/31/ferrari-holding-online-auction-to-benefit-italian-earthquake-vic/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/31/ferrari-holding-online-auction-to-benefit-italian-earthquake-vic/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Ferrari 599XX Evoluzione

Italy is unfortunately no stranger to earthquakes, thus neither is the exotic automaker and racing team whose logo bears the country's flag. When disaster struck in Abruzzo, Ferrari launched a special-edition F430 to raise funds for its relief, and has been contributing to rebuilding the stricken region ever since. When the tsunami hit in Japan, Ferrari contributed millions to its aid. Now another earthquake has hit Italy - in the same part of the country that hosts Ferrari's headquarters in Maranello. The company immediately halted operations to let its employees be with their families, and is now preparing for an online auction to raise funds for relief efforts in the region.

The auction will be hosted at FerrariStore.com, and will of course include all manner of Ferrari-branded merchandise - including racing helmets and suits worn in grands prix by Fernando Alonso and Felipe Massa. But there are some bigger items as well, including a V8 engine from one of the Scuderia's F1 cars, and, at the top of the list, a 599XX Evoluzione. The most advanced of the company's developmental track cars, the 599XX Evo is worth over $1.6 million, but will likely raise far more than that - and help the disaster relief efforts that have forced the new Italian federal government to raise fuel taxes - when the bidding starts next week. Check out more details by scrolling below.

Continue reading Ferrari holding online auction to benefit Italian earthquake victims

Ferrari holding online auction to benefit Italian earthquake victims originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 31 May 2012 18:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>599xx599xx evo599xx evoluzioneauctioncharitydisasterdisaster reliefearthquakeferrariferrari 599xx evoferrari 599xx evoluzioneferrari storeferraristoreferraristore.comItaly earthquakemaranelloreliefwww.ferraristore.comThu, 31 May 2012 18:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20248710/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/31/ferrari-holding-online-auction-to-benefit-italian-earthquake-vic/20248710/article-detail.xml 20248710 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/599xxevo_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/599xxevo.jpg <![CDATA[Mini previews 2012 Life Ball Roadster]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/06/mini-previews-2012-life-ball-roadster/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/06/mini-previews-2012-life-ball-roadster/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/06/mini-previews-2012-life-ball-roadster/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Life Ball Mini Roadster

Mini has been involved with Life Ball, one of Europe's largest charity events, since the brand first bowed in 2001. This year, the automaker turned a brand-new Mini Roadster over to Franca Sozzani, chief editor of Italian Vogue, for a complete makeover. Sozzani dipped the convertible two door in matte Deepest Purple paint with contrasting rally stripes and added steel accents on the side mirrors and wheels to help set the machine apart from the standard model. The charity car also sports a unique floral design on the roof. Mini will auction off the special Roadster at the Hall of Ceremonies at Vienna's Hofburg palace.

Life Ball highlights the fight against AIDS. The celebrity-studded event features live music and a fashion show, and Mini says that sales of its past Life Ball models have raised over $654,000 for AIDS research. Scroll past the break for the full press release.

Continue reading Mini previews 2012 Life Ball Roadster

Mini previews 2012 Life Ball Roadster originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 06 May 2012 16:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aidscharityfranca sozzanilife balllife ball mini roadsterminimini roadsterroadsterSun, 06 May 2012 16:05:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20232174/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/06/mini-previews-2012-life-ball-roadster/20232174/article-detail.xml 20232174 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/life-ball-mini-roadster-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/life-ball-mini-roadster-628.jpg <![CDATA[First Mercedes-Benz SL63 AMG in America to be auctioned off at Boca concours]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/03/first-mercedes-benz-sl63-amg-in-america-to-be-auctioned-off-at-b/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/03/first-mercedes-benz-sl63-amg-in-america-to-be-auctioned-off-at-b/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/03/first-mercedes-benz-sl63-amg-in-america-to-be-auctioned-off-at-b/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

2013 Mercedes-Benz SL

Of all the car shows around the calendar year, the Boca Raton Concours d'Elegance doesn't typically fall on our radar screen. But maybe it should, because the annual event in Florida - young as it is - has a history of offering firsts. Maybe not the first time a vehicle is seen in North America, mind you, but a first just the same.

Last year the event included the sale of the first examples of the Ferrari FF, Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Roadster and Audi R8 GT to be delivered in America. The year before that, it was the Audi R8 5.2 FSI (yeah, that's the one with the V10) and Ferrari California. And before that, the event's auctioneers sold off the first Audi R8 Spyder, Ferrari 458 Italia and Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG.

Noticing a pattern here? Organizers have no intention of dropping the ball this year, when they'll be auctioning off the first U.S. deliveries of the new Mercedes-Benz SL63 AMG. Now if you're thinking that we haven't even seen the new SL63 AMG yet, you're absolutely right. The new SL itself has been shown, but not the AMG version, which is expected to pack Affalterbach's 5.5-liter twin-turbo V8 with 571 horsepower on tap. Once the car has been unveiled and deliveries commence, the winner of the auction is guaranteed to be the first to get one in the United States.

As if that's not enough, there will also be an Audi R8 GT Spyder - one of only 50 slated for production and the only one in red to be made available in the U.S. - as well as a Lamborghini Aventador and a whole mess of special-edition Shelby muscle cars, with proceeds going to the Boys & Girls Clubs of America. Follow the link for more info, or head down on February 25th to see the bidding frenzy at the Boca Raton Resort & Club.

First Mercedes-Benz SL63 AMG in America to be auctioned off at Boca concours originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 09:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 mercedes-benz sl63 amgauctionaudiboca ratonboca raton concours delegancecharitymercedes-benzr8 gtr8 gt spydershelbysl63 amgFri, 03 Feb 2012 09:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20161452/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/03/first-mercedes-benz-sl63-amg-in-america-to-be-auctioned-off-at-b/20161452/article-detail.xml 20161452 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/02-2013-mercedes-benz-sl_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/02-2013-mercedes-benz-sl.jpg <![CDATA[Radar Tires debuts pink-wall radials to fight breast cancer]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/29/radar-tires-debuts-pink-wall-radials-to-fight-breast-cancer/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/29/radar-tires-debuts-pink-wall-radials-to-fight-breast-cancer/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/29/radar-tires-debuts-pink-wall-radials-to-fight-breast-cancer/#commentsFiled under: ,

Ring of Hope tires

Radar Tires has initiated a new charity campaign to fight breast cancer. The Mobilizing Hope campaign is aimed at stirring awareness through various channels, including the Ring of Hope project, which features a limited-edition pink sidewall tire. Based on the Radar Tires RPX900 all-season performance tire, the rubber will initially be available in two sizes: 195/60R15 and 205/55R16. Radar Tires says that those sizes will fit a variety of popular vehicles, including the Mini Cooper, Ford Focus, Honda Civic, Volkswagen Beetle, Chrysler PT Cruiser and BMW 3 Series among others. Look for the limited edition tires to hit the market in the first quarter of 2012.

Radar Tires has been donating $1 for every four tires it sells to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation since May of 2011, and the Ring of Hope project is simply a more visible way to underscore the company's commitment to fighting breast cancer. Radar Tires will donate a minimum of $250,000 annually to the charity. Hit the jump for the full press release and check out the company's Facebook page for more information.

Continue reading Radar Tires debuts pink-wall radials to fight breast cancer

Radar Tires debuts pink-wall radials to fight breast cancer originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 29 Nov 2011 18:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breast cancerbreast cancer research foundationcharitypink sidewall tirespink tiresradar tirestiretiresTue, 29 Nov 2011 18:33:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20116631/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/29/radar-tires-debuts-pink-wall-radials-to-fight-breast-cancer/20116631/article-detail.xml 20116631 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/ring-of-hope-tires-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/ring-of-hope-tires-628.jpg <![CDATA[Former VW CEO Pischetsrieder settles tax evasion charges with charity]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/27/former-vw-ceo-pischetsrieder-settles-tax-evasion-charges-with-ch/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/27/former-vw-ceo-pischetsrieder-settles-tax-evasion-charges-with-ch/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/27/former-vw-ceo-pischetsrieder-settles-tax-evasion-charges-with-ch/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Bernd Pischetsrieder, former VW CEO

Former Volkswagen CEO Bernd Pischetsrieder has successfully managed to avoid tax evasion charges in Germany by agreeing to donate around $193,000 to various charities, according to Automotive News. Pischetsrieder had been charged with evading more than €230,000 in taxes between 2000 and 2003 (around $322,500 USD) by transferring interest on loans between various properties. The ex-VW executive went on trial on Monday, and according to reports, Pischetsrieder told the court that he never set out to intentionally evade taxes and that he hadn't hidden his activities from authorities.

Pischetsrieder served as Seat CEO from 2000 to 2002, when he replaced Ferdinand Pi

ëch

as VW Group CEO. Pi

ë

ch then moved to become VW Group Chairman, and in 2006, the two had a falling out that saw Pischetsrieder ousted from the company. Martin Winterkorn replaced Pischetsrieder at that time, and he continues to serve as VW Group CEO.

Former VW CEO Pischetsrieder settles tax evasion charges with charity originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 27 Oct 2011 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bernd pischetsriedercharitycharity donationevasiontax evasiontaxesvolkswagenvwThu, 27 Oct 2011 11:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20091830/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/27/former-vw-ceo-pischetsrieder-settles-tax-evasion-charges-with-ch/20091830/article-detail.xml 20091830 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/-bernd-pischetsrieder_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/-bernd-pischetsrieder.jpg <![CDATA[Ford designer creates special Parnelli Jones Mustang Boss 302 for charity]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/14/ford-designer-creates-special-parnelli-jones-mustang-boss-302-fo/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/14/ford-designer-creates-special-parnelli-jones-mustang-boss-302-fo/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/14/ford-designer-creates-special-parnelli-jones-mustang-boss-302-fo/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Eleven years ago, Ford designer Melvin Betancourt suffered a serious heart problem and had to undergo intense open-heart surgery at the Henry Ford Hospital in Dearborn, Michigan. The surgery was a total success, with Betancourt crediting Henry Ford's doctors with saving his life. Now, the designer uses his expertise as a way to give back to the medical field that helped give him a second lease on life.

This special edition 2012 Mustang Boss 302 Laguna Seca has been done up as a modern interpretation of the famed coupe Parnelli Jones raced to victory in the 1970 Trans-Am Championship. Painted in School Bus Yellow and complete with black accents and number decals, the Boss will be auctioned off at the Get Your Heart Racing benefit on October 15. The benefit is sponsored by Ford Motor Company and the Henry Ford Health System and raises money for cardiovascular care, research and education. More information is available in Ford's press release after the jump.

Continue reading Ford designer creates special Parnelli Jones Mustang Boss 302 for charity

Ford designer creates special Parnelli Jones Mustang Boss 302 for charity originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 14 Oct 2011 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 ford mustang boss 302betancourtboss 302charityfordford charitylaguna secamustangparnelli jonestrans-amFri, 14 Oct 2011 13:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20081677/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/14/ford-designer-creates-special-parnelli-jones-mustang-boss-302-fo/20081677/article-detail.xml 20081677 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/2012boss302-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/2012boss302-628.jpg <![CDATA[Chevy fielding pink Camaro for safety, charity]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/04/chevy-fielding-pink-camaro-for-safety-charity/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/04/chevy-fielding-pink-camaro-for-safety-charity/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/04/chevy-fielding-pink-camaro-for-safety-charity/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Pink Chevy Camaro Pace Car

Chevrolet plans to do more with its NASCAR Camaro pace car than merely slow the field down. For the next two races at Atlanta Motor Speedway and Richmond International Raceway, a Camaro doused in pink to support breast cancer research will lead the field. As if the hue weren't enough, when the safety car comes out, Chevrolet will donate $200 per lap to the American Cancer Society.

The tie-in is part of the Bowtie's lead-up to Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October and its November 3 birthday. Not that we're hoping for any crashes during the next two Sprint Cup rounds, if they happen, at least they'll be more than just screeching spectacle. Follow the jump for the press release, and check out the pink muscle car in the high-res gallery below.

Continue reading Chevy fielding pink Camaro for safety, charity

Chevy fielding pink Camaro for safety, charity originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 04 Sep 2011 12:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>american cancer societyatlanta motor speedwaycamarocancercharitychevrolet camaronascarnascar pace carpace carRichmond International RacewaySun, 04 Sep 2011 12:02:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20034460/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/04/chevy-fielding-pink-camaro-for-safety-charity/20034460/article-detail.xml 20034460 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/breastcancercamaro_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/breastcancercamaro.jpg -1 2