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[Nissan V2G wins LA's 2009 Design Challenge]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/09/nissan-v2g-wins-las-2009-design-challenge/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/09/nissan-v2g-wins-las-2009-design-challenge/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/09/nissan-v2g-wins-las-2009-design-challenge/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Nissan V2G -- Click above for high-res image gallery

The LA Auto Show's Design Challenge has a victor from among its Youthmobile 2030 entries: the Nissan Vehicle-to-Grid, aka V2G. It envisions a nationwide electric highway system (the "grid") driven on by Generation Z, and their cars will pay for use of the grid like a mobile phone plan. The V2G doesn't offer much in the way of variety, but it's ultra-efficient, cheap to run, and convoys of them can gather in interlocked formations called "flocks."

But when the Gen Z'ers get their hacking fingers on it, they customize it so it can be taken off-grid, creating the V2G Unlimited and the Halo-esque future we are beginning to think is inevitable. Sadly, none of the customized demos feature guns, which is all the V2G Unlimited appears to lack and will make it difficult to deal with the Covenant.

When the V2G is finished providing useful service, it can be recycled. Made of bioresin impregnated carbon nanotube cloth, a specially yet-to-be-created bacteria would devour the bioresin and leave only the cloth, which can be used to build another V2G. Or something. Check out the V2G in the high-res gallery below and start studying for the future, now.


Gallery: LA 2009 Design Challenger Winner: Nissan V2G


[Source: Car Body Design]

Nissan V2G wins LA's 2009 Design Challenge originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 09 Dec 2009 09:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>awardsconcept carConceptCardesign challengeDesignChallengela 2009la auto showla auto show design challengeLa2009LaAutoShowLaAutoShowDesignChallengenissannissan v2gNissanV2gv2gWed, 09 Dec 2009 09:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumormill: Mini Coupe and Roadster could go on sale as early as 2011]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/09/rumormill-mini-coupe-and-roadster-could-go-on-sale-as-early-as/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/09/rumormill-mini-coupe-and-roadster-could-go-on-sale-as-early-as/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/09/rumormill-mini-coupe-and-roadster-could-go-on-sale-as-early-as/#commentsFiled under: , ,

MINI Coupe and Roadster Concepts - Click above for high-res image gallery

The Mini Coupe and Roadster concepts have been making their way around the auto show circuit since Frankfurt in September, and when we saw the two vehicles at the LA Auto Show we got the impression that the high end micros were near production ready. If a story from MotoringFile is to be believed, the next two Mini variants could be even closer to production than we thought.

The Mini-obsessed site is claiming that its sources tell them that engineering for the the Coupe and Roadster is well under way. Further, the final model could hit the assembly plant in Oxford by next June with full production commencing in October. If that time line holds true, the first Mini two doors could be hitting dealer showrooms in Europe by early 2011 at the latest, with models crossing the Atlantic soon after.


Gallery: LA 2009: MINI concepts and special editions


[Source: MotoringFile]

Rumormill: Mini Coupe and Roadster could go on sale as early as 2011 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 09 Dec 2009 09:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>frankfurt auto showFrankfurtAutoShowla 2009la auto showLa2009LaAutoShowmini coopermini coupemini roadsterMiniCooperMiniCoupeMiniRoadsterWed, 09 Dec 2009 09:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Autoblog Podcast #156]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/08/autoblog-podcast-156/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/08/autoblog-podcast-156/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/08/autoblog-podcast-156/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


Click above for the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes, RSS or listen now!

Editor Chris Paukert has apparently been bitten by the podcasting bug, and he once again joins Shunk and Roth for Episode #156 of the Autoblog Podcast. We dive right in to reminiscence about the recently finished Los Angeles Auto Show. Moving on from there, we talk about Audi's new A7 Sportback and its extreme gorgeousness, as well as the new A8 and all its massive awesomeness. Speaking of awesomeness, Shunk thinks that the $199,950 Aston Martin Rapide is one very attractive four-place supercar. Going to the other end of the spectrum, rumors about Volkswagen's upcoming Jetta replacement gets some head scratches from us before we moved on to prognosticating about a unibody Dodge Dakota replacement. We wrap up a chewy hour-and-forty-five minutes by addressing some of your questions and calling it a night.

Don't forget to check out our colleagues at Joystiq and Engadget, and let us know what you think of our podcast by dropping us an email at Podcast at Autoblog dot com, reviewing the show in iTunes, filling out our survey, or even leaving us a voicemail on our Google Voice line 734-288-8POD (734-288-8763). Thanks for listening!

Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #156

Autoblog Podcast #156 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Dec 2009 16:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a7 sportbackaston martinaston martin rapideAstonMartinAstonMartinRapideaudiaudi a7audi a8audi s8AudiS8autoblogautoblog podcastchryslerdakotadodgedodge dakotaDodgeDakotafeaturedjettaLA 2009LA Auto showla auto show 2009la show 2009La2009LaAutoShowLaAutoShow2009LaShow2009los angeles auto showlos angeles auto show 2009los angeles autoshow 2009los angeles autoshow2009LosAngelesAutoShowLosAngelesAutoshow2009podcastsportbackunibody dakotaunit body dakotavolkswagenvolkswagen jettavwvw jettaTue, 08 Dec 2009 16:40:00 ESTAutoblog Podcast #156Autoblog01:41:22la auto show; aston martin; aston martin rapide; rapide; audi a7; sportback; a8; audi; volkswagen; jetta; dakota; dodge dakota; podcast; autoblog podcast<![CDATA[REPORT: Diesel Beetle, electric Up! coming from Volkswagen]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/07/report-diesel-beetle-electric-up-coming-from-volkswagen/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/07/report-diesel-beetle-electric-up-coming-from-volkswagen/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/07/report-diesel-beetle-electric-up-coming-from-volkswagen/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Volkswagen Up! Lite concept - Click above for high-res gallery

Volkswagen Group of America President, Stefan Jacoby, has confirmed that the next-gen New Beetle, due to hit North American as a 2012 model, will be offered with a clean diesel engine. The current New Beetle was last offered with a 1.9-liter TDI in 2006, but was discontinued the following year due to tougher emissions requirements.

In addition, the U.S. market will reportedly get an electrified version of the Up! hatchback in 2014, but it will not be the gasoline version (the diesel/electric Up! Lite concept debuted at the LA Auto Show last week). Ulrich Hackenberg, head of technical development for Volkswagen AG, says the car will be manufactured in Germany and sold in the European marketplace before it makes its way across the Atlantic.

The complete Up! lineup -- including a hatchback, minivan, and sedan -- all are slated to go on sale in Europe during 2011. but still no word on which models will make it to the U.S.


Gallery: LA 2009: Volkswagen Up! Lite


[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req.]

REPORT: Diesel Beetle, electric Up! coming from Volkswagen originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 07 Dec 2009 15:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>LA Auto ShowLaAutoShowProduction newsProductionNewsStefan JacobyStefanJacobyUlrich HackenbergUlrichHackenbergUpUp conceptUp HatchbackUp minivanUpConceptUpHatchbackUpMinivanvolkswagenVolkswagen MinivanVolkswagenMinivanMon, 07 Dec 2009 15:31:00 EST<![CDATA[2009 LA Auto Show Wrap Up]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/2009-la-auto-show-wrap-up/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/2009-la-auto-show-wrap-up/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/2009-la-auto-show-wrap-up/#commentsFiled under:

Did you miss our coverage of the 2009 LA Auto Show? Don't know where to look to find it? No worries. We've assembled the best parts for you below, and you can visit our LA Auto Show page to view every last piece of coverage we did.

THE CARS
Allard J2X MkII
Gallery | Post		 Audi e-tron
Gallery | Post		 Audi R8 Spyder
Gallery | Post
2011 Cadillac CTS Coupe
 Gallery | Post		 2011 Chevrolet Cruze
 Gallery | Post		 2011 Chevrolet Volt
 Gallery | Post
2011 Dodge Viper
 Gallery | Post		 2011 Ford Fiesta
 Gallery | Post		 2011 Ford Mustang V6
 Gallery | Post
Honda P-NUT Concept
 Gallery | Post		 2011 Hyundai Sonata
 Gallery | Post		 2011 Hyundai Tucson
 Gallery | Post
2011 Infiniti G
 Gallery | Post		 2011 Infiniti M
 Gallery | Post		 2011 Kia Sorento
 Gallery | Post
2011 Mazda2
 Gallery | Post		 2011 Porsche Boxster Spyder
 Gallery | Post		 2010 Range Rover Sport Autobiography
 Gallery | Post
2010 Scion xB Release Series 7.0
 Gallery | Post		 2010 Spyker Aileron C8 Spyder
 Gallery | Post		 2010 Subaru WRX STI Special Edition
 Gallery | Post
Toyota Prius Plug-In
 Gallery | Post		 2011 Toyota Sienna
 Gallery | Post		 Toyota Billabong Venza
 Gallery | Post
2011 VW Final Edition New Beetle
 Gallery | Post		 VW Up! Lite Concept
 Gallery | Post

THE NEWS
LA 2009: Maximum Bob, Maximum Live Blog
We're here in the City of Angels to watch Fritz Henderson deliver GM's keynote address to all us media types here at LA Auto Show. Only thing is, Fritz resigned yesterday, and for some reason interim CEO Ed Whitacre will not be delivering the keynote. Which can only mean one thing -- GM's Vice Chairman of Marketing and Communications Bob Lutz will be delivering the opening address.
LA 2009: Ford Taurus and Volvo XC60 named International Car and Truck of the Year
Hold onto your hats folks, because while magazine award ceremonies appear to be just about finished, the auto show trophies are just starting to be handed out. This time, it's the International Car of the Year at the LA Auto Show, and we've got two winners from within the Ford empire. The Ford ...
LA 2009: Audi A3 TDI named 2010 Green Car of the Year in diesel repeat
At the LA Auto Show this morning, the Audi A3 TDI was crowned the 2010 Green Car of the Year, wresting the title away from last year's winner, the Volkswagen Jetta TDI. Even though three hybrids made this year's list of finalists, the A3's win marks the second year in a row that a TDI diesel car ...
LA 2009: Lexus LFA wireframe cutaway wows us
Wow. Lexus brought their new LFA supercar to the LA Auto Show this year. That might not seem particularly wow-worthy, but it definitely becomes more surprising when you hear that they actually brought an LFA and a half. While a white LFA was happily humming along, spinning slowly on a rotating ...
"Viridian Joule" picked as winner of Chevy Volt Paint Color Contest
The votes have been cast, the tallies tallied and the winner determined: Viridian Joule will be the official name of the silvery-green hue as seen on a slew of Chevrolet Volt marketing material for what seems like the last decade or so. So, um, what does Viridian Joule mean? We'll let the winner ...

BUT WAIT, THERE'S MORE...

2009 LA Auto Show Wrap Up originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 04 Dec 2009 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 la auto show2009LaAutoShowlala 2009la auto showla auto show wrap upla showLa2009LaAutoShowLaAutoShowWrapUpLaShowFri, 04 Dec 2009 19:58:00 EST<![CDATA[LA 2009: Random beauty in the City of Angels]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/la-2009-random-beauty-in-the-city-of-angels/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/la-2009-random-beauty-in-the-city-of-angels/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/la-2009-random-beauty-in-the-city-of-angels/#commentsFiled under: ,

Just some of the beauty in LA - Click above for high-res image gallery

With the state of the economy, it didn't come as much of a surprise that manufacturer presence was down at the LA Auto Show this year. The carmakers that did show up, however, brought their "A Game" - mostly. As much as that was true for new vehicle introductions, it also applied to the deployment of booth professionals as well.

Many booths didn't hire models this year, unfortunately, and companies that have traditionally been reliable sources of model employment weren't even here in 2009. We're looking at you, Ferrari, Lamborghini and Maserati. Still, it was nice to see even a few smiling faces while we scoured the darkened halls of the LA Convention Center trying in our obsessive search for postworthy material.

While we didn't encounter many spokesmodels, we did find a lot of beauty in the City of Angels. We've assembled a small gallery of random shots and artsy-fartsy images to give all of you a taste of this year's show from LA. Click below to see our small but satisfying high-res gallery.


Gallery: LA 2009: LA beauty


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

LA 2009: Random beauty in the City of Angels originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 04 Dec 2009 19:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>babe galleryBabeGallerybabesbooth professionalsBoothProfessionalsla 2009la auto showLA Auto Show 2009LA Convention CenterLA ladyLA ShowLA womanLa2009LaAutoShowLaAutoShow2009LaConventionCenterladiesLaLadyLaShowLaWomanlos angeles auto showlos angeles international auto showLosAngelesAutoShowLosAngelesInternationalAutoShowspokesmodelspokesmodelsFri, 04 Dec 2009 19:29:00 EST<![CDATA[LA 2009: Ford Super Duty Fire Truck developed for charity, doing good in LA]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/ford-super-duty-fire-truck-la-2009/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/ford-super-duty-fire-truck-la-2009/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/ford-super-duty-fire-truck-la-2009/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2011 Ford F-550 Super Duty Fire Truck - Click above for high-res image gallery

We're always up for a good cause, and that's exactly what this Ford Super Duty Fire Truck represents. According to Ford, it will make an initial $10,000 contribution to the Los Angeles County Firefighters Widows and Orphans Fund, plus $10 for each person that visits its stand at the LA Auto Show and another $20 for every person that takes a test drive in a new Ford vehicle throughout the duration of the show - up to a maximum of another $6,000 per day.

Naturally, Ford is looking for a little exposure along the way, and we don't really have any problem with that. After all, it's certainly not uncommon to see Super Duty chassis cabs upfitted as fire department vehicles, and that's exactly what Ford has on display right now in LA. Included in the makeover are a 300-gallon water tank, eight-gallon foam cell, two pumps, an electric rewind reel with 150 feet of hose, three-stage winch with 8,000-pound capacity and 100 feet of wire rope.

Naturally, the top-spec 6.7-liter turbocharged diesel Power Stroke V8 engine is present and accounted for, along with a heavy-duty TorqShift six-speed automatic transmission that features available Live Drive Power Take Off (PTO), which allows the truck's engine to power axillary equipment whether the truck is stationary or in motion. See more in the press release after the break and check out our photo gallery below.


Gallery: 2011 Ford F-550 Super Duty Fire Truck


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

[Source: Ford]

Continue reading LA 2009: Ford Super Duty Fire Truck developed for charity, doing good in LA

LA 2009: Ford Super Duty Fire Truck developed for charity, doing good in LA originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 04 Dec 2009 15:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 F-5502011 F-550 Super Duty2011 F-series2011 Ford2011 ford f-5502011 super duty2011F-5502011F-series2011Ford2011FordF-5502011SuperDutyblue ovalBlueOvalchassis cabChassisCabF-550F-550 Super DutyF-550SuperDutyf-series super dutyF-seriesSuperDutyfire truckFireTruckfordford super dutyford super duty chassic cabford super duty fire truckFordSuperDutyFordSuperDutyChassicCabFordSuperDutyFireTruckla 2009la auto showLa2009LaAutoShowLaShowlashow2009Los Angeles County Firefighters Widows and Orphans FundLosAngelesCountyFirefightersWidowsAndOrphansFundsuper dutysuper duty chassis cabsuper duty fre truckSuperDutySuperDutyChassisCabSuperDutyFreTruckFri, 04 Dec 2009 15:31:00 EST<![CDATA[LA 2009: Toyota and Billabong craft one funky Venza]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/toyota-venza-billabong-los-angeles-2009/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/toyota-venza-billabong-los-angeles-2009/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/toyota-venza-billabong-los-angeles-2009/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Billabong Toyota Venza - Click above for high-res image gallery

No, this isn't a leftover post from SEMA, although to be perfectly fair, it is a leftover vehicle from SEMA. While reporting on the Hot Rod Toyota Tundra and Tacoma All-Terrain Gamer, we somehow missed this tricked-out Venza. Kitted out by the Australian surfwear mavens at Billabong, it's called the Ultimate Venza Concept. Umm, yeah. While the vast majority of Venza crossovers are probably never going to be used off-road, this Ultimate Venza apparently wants us to know that any extreme sports fan will be happy in one.

Toyota had Street Image do the build. They started with a 2009 Venza and added a body kit with Outback-worthy fender flares and alloy wheels. That crazy custom roof rack can accommodate surfboards, snow boards and wake boards, and can be lowered for easier loading. There's even a hidden cargo rack that allows skis and snow boards to be mounted at the back. There are front and rear hitch receivers, a Grinch Winch to "pull wake boarders into waves or snow boarders and skaters across flat land to a jump or rail," and a TRD big brake kit in there as well.

Besides being identified by the massive graphics along the flanks, Billabong also chipped in wet suit material for the seats and an homage of sorts on the headliner which features a collage of Billabong athletes in action. The vehicle also incorporates certain "living" features like a heated shower system to help you rinse off after surfing and a Verizon Wireless access point router to keep you abreast of current surf and snow conditions. Look for it at upcoming Billabong surf events, read more about it in the press release after the jump, and see it in our high-res gallery below.


Gallery: LA 2009: Billabong Toyota Venza


Photos copyright (C)2009 Frank Filipponio/Weblogs, Inc.
[Source: Toyota]

Continue reading LA 2009: Toyota and Billabong craft one funky Venza

LA 2009: Toyota and Billabong craft one funky Venza originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 04 Dec 2009 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 Toyota2010 Toyota Venza2010Toyota2010ToyotaVenzaBillabongBillabong Toyota VenzaBillabong VenzaBillabongToyotaVenzaBillabongVenzala 2009la auto showLA Auto Show 2009LA ShowLa2009LaAutoShowLaAutoShow2009LaShowSEMASEMA 2009SEMA2009toyota venzaToyotaVenzavenzaVerizon WirelessVerizonWirelessFri, 04 Dec 2009 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[LA 2009: Allard J2X MkII drops our jaw]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/la-2009-allard-j2x-mkii-drops-our-jaw/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/la-2009-allard-j2x-mkii-drops-our-jaw/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/la-2009-allard-j2x-mkii-drops-our-jaw/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Allard J2X MkII - Click above for high-res image gallery

Tucked away into the nookiest cranny of the LA Auto Show and literally parked behind a Morgan sits the Allard J2X MkII, perhaps the most breathtaking car in the joint. You nerds out there might be saying, "They dragged an admittedly concours-condition J2X out to Los Angeles? Big deal." Which is precisely what we thought as we strolled right past the spiffy, spankin' Allard for nearly two days. But then we took a closer look. Why would someone fit humongous Wilwood brakes to a vintage car?

Because this puppy ain't vintage. See that "MkII" suffix hanging off the end of the title there? This Allard is all new. As in a modern, hand-built continuation of the original Allard. Not only does the Allard Registry recognize the roadster and issue each one its own continuation serial number, but the president of Allard Motor Works is named Roger Allard - though he's not a descendant of founder Sydney Allard. But even if it wasn't a bang-on recreation of the hugely successful 1951-1954 J2X race car, this car would tickle us you know where.

Why? So many reasons.



Besides the usual "Just look at it!" bloviation, the frame is built from tubular steel with double roll bars covering the cowl and fuel tank. And inboard rear-brakes. Then there's the absolutely stunning, jewelery-like hand-fitted instruments and aluminum dash. And the red leather. And the leather hood straps. And the (functional) portholes. The knock-off hubs. The twin side-pipes. And on and on and on. And on.

Then there's the little (or not so little) matter of what's under the hood. In this particular car, it's a 5.7-liter Chrysler Hemi V8 with a massive throttle body and a lot of other reworked jazz that's good for around 500 horsepower. You want a 600-hp 6.1-liter Hemi? Not a problem. You can also opt for a Chevy 350, Caddy Northstar or Ford 351. The sprint from zero to 60 happens in about 4.5 seconds and, depending on the motor, you could pop off a quarter-mile in the low 12 seconds at 110 mph.

Currently the Allard J2X is being built in two places (Montreal and Upstate New York), although there are plans to move to a single factory soon. Roger Allard plans on keeping the new Allard pretty exclusive, limiting its numbers to just one hundred per year. Oddly, about a quarter of that total is slated for Australia. Or maybe not so oddly, as when we shut our eyes we can totally picture ourselves blasting across the Outback in a J2X MkII, bugs in our teeth and roos bouncing off the nerf bars. Cost of entry? The new Allard starts at $138,500.


Gallery: LA 2009: Allard J2X MkII


[Source: Allard]

LA 2009: Allard J2X MkII drops our jaw originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 04 Dec 2009 12:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 la auto show2009LaAutoShowAllardAllard J2XAllard J2X MkIIAllardJ2xAllardJ2xMkiiHemiLA 2009LA Auto ShowLA ShowLa2009LaAutoShowLaShowSydney AllardSydneyAllardFri, 04 Dec 2009 12:59:00 EST<![CDATA[LA 2009: Spyker C8 Aileron Spyder proves the devil is in the details]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/la-2009-spyker-c8-aileron-spyder-is-the-devil-in-the-details/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/la-2009-spyker-c8-aileron-spyder-is-the-devil-in-the-details/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/la-2009-spyker-c8-aileron-spyder-is-the-devil-in-the-details/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Spyker C8 Aileron Spyder - Click above for high-res image gallery

Where to even start? Oh right - that interior! With the possible exception of a couple of British-ish cars (BMW-owned Rolls-Royce Phantom, Volkswagen-owned Bentley Mulsanne, Tata-owned Jaguar XJ), no interior even comes close. And frankly, being honest, those luxo-barges just pale in comparison to the blinged out old-world splendor of a Spyker cockpit. And the C8 Aileron Spyder ups that already pricey ante. And get this - all C8s are now built in Coventry, England, shaving about $9,000 off the asking price, which is somewhere south north of $200,000 depending on baubles options.

Normally, photographing cars at auto shows feels like a strange, exotic form of torture, at least for us writerly types. The bright lights, the bumrush, the awkward positions (you try crawling on your hands and knees between a posing CEO's knees to get a shot of a wheel) - it's not fun. But when photographing this car, we were overcome with a rush of (let's just say) endorphins. We could imagine ourselves winding up the California coast, fondling that leather-wrapped aluminum gear shifter for hundreds of breezy, dreamy miles. And get this - it's an automatic... and we don't care!

For you number junkies who choose to hastily look past the incredible innards, the C8 drop top is powered by a 4.2-liter Audi V8 good for 400 hp and 354 lb-ft of torque. That medium-amount of gumption is routed to the rear-wheels via a 6-speed slushbox. Top speed is 187 mph and 0-60 happens in 4.5 seconds. Spyker claims that the car's strength is in the frame (stouter than a Ferrari F430, so they say) and therefor chopping off the roof has limited negative structural impact. Want more tech details? See our post from Monterey.



Let's get back to that interior. If you're into fancy cars (hi mom!) you've no doubt heard of special leather coming from "free range" cows raised without barbwire so as to ensure the leather is flawless. Well get this, the leather in the Aileron Spyder comes from a Dutch tannery that works with free range cold weather cows. Why cold weather? No mosquito bites. No, really. And you can get that interior in any of fourteen colors, most of which are (hopefully) equally eye-searing. Finally, anyone else as in love with the tonneau cover-mounted quilted leather briefcase as we are?


Gallery: LA 2009: 2010 Spyker C8 Aileron Spyder

LA 2009: Spyker C8 Aileron Spyder proves the devil is in the details originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 04 Dec 2009 12:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 la auto show2009LaAutoShowAudiC8C8 Aileron SpyderC8 SpyderC8AileronSpyderC8SpyderLA 2009LA Auto ShowLA ShowLa2009LaAutoShowLaShowSpykerSpyker C8Spyker C8 AileronSpyker C8 Aileron SpyderSpykerC8SpykerC8AileronSpykerC8AileronSpyderFri, 04 Dec 2009 12:32:00 EST<![CDATA[LA 2009: 2010 Kia Forte and Forte Koup crowned NADAguides.com COTY]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/la-2009-2010-kia-forte-and-forte-koup-crowned-nadaguides-com-co/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/la-2009-2010-kia-forte-and-forte-koup-crowned-nadaguides-com-co/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/la-2009-2010-kia-forte-and-forte-koup-crowned-nadaguides-com-co/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


2010 Kia Forte - Click above for high-res image gallery

With a brief press release and a trophy handoff at the LA Auto Show, car pricing authority NADAguides.com has heaped the first of what we could be many accolades upon the stylish and affordable 2010 Kia Forte and Kia Forte Koup by naming the duo their Car of the Year for 2009. Citing the pair's "best in class" features and stylish interior and exterior design, the group said these Kia compacts were standout vehicles in a pretty impressive field. Other contenders for the crown included such significant and praiseworthy vehicles as the Ford Fusion Hybrid, Mercedes-Benz E350 and Nissan 370Z Roadster.

In our own review of the Kia Forte, we praised its styling, build, layout and performance, and especially its budget-minded pricing, so we see where NADA is coming from. Sometimes, we have to scratch our heads a bit when one of these sorts of awards are announced, but in this case, we certainly think the cars are deserving.


Gallery: Review: 2010 Kia Forte SX


[Source: NADAguides.com]

Continue reading LA 2009: 2010 Kia Forte and Forte Koup crowned NADAguides.com COTY

LA 2009: 2010 Kia Forte and Forte Koup crowned NADAguides.com COTY originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 04 Dec 2009 10:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 Kia2010 Kia Forte2010 Kia Forte Koup2010Kia2010KiaForte2010KiaForteKoupcar of the yearCarOfTheYearCotyforteForte CoupeForte KoupForteCoupeForteKoupkiaKia ForteKia Forte CoupeKia Forte KoupKiaForteKiaForteCoupeKiaForteKoupKoupla 2009la auto showLA Auto Show 2009LA Showla show 2009La2009LaAutoShowLaAutoShow2009LaShowLaShow2009nadanada guidesNadaGuidesnadaguides.comFri, 04 Dec 2009 10:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Jay Z vandalizing 2011 Jaguar XJ for 'On to the Next One' video?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/jay-z-vandalizing-2011-jaguar-xj-for-on-to-the-next-one-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/jay-z-vandalizing-2011-jaguar-xj-for-on-to-the-next-one-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/jay-z-vandalizing-2011-jaguar-xj-for-on-to-the-next-one-video/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,



On Wednesday night, as part of the run-up to the LA Auto Show, Jaguar held a sizable soiree at SoCal's Milk Studios to show off its latest wares to the public and press, with a heavy focus on its 2011 XJ flagship.

With the British automaker's latest model taking center stage, Mike O'Driscoll, Jaguar's managing director, discussed the finer points of the super saloon before announcing that rapper Jay Z will feature the XJ in his upcoming music video, "On to the Next One," a track from his new album The Blueprint 3. The 60-second trailer we saw didn't set our hearts on fire, but with Jaguar's renewed focus on "making Jaguar Jaguar again" and its push to appeal to a broader swath of the world's elite, the collaboration - although slightly awkward and mildly forced - could pay itself forward. It's just a shame about Jay Z's new logo being painted on the flanks of the luxury sedan.

Jay Z vandalizing 2011 Jaguar XJ for 'On to the Next One' video? originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 04 Dec 2009 10:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 Jag2011 Jaguar2011 jaguar xj2011 XJ2011Jag2011Jaguar2011JaguarXj2011Xjblueprint 3Blueprint3HovajagJaguarjaguar xjJaguarXjjay zjay z jaguarjay z jaguar xjjay-zjay-z jaguarJay-zJaguarJayZJayZJaguarJayZJaguarXjJiggalala 2009la auto showla showLa2009la2009showLaAutoShowLaShowlashow2009music videoMusicVideoOn to the Next OneOnToTheNextOneThe Blueprint 3TheBlueprint3Fri, 04 Dec 2009 10:29:00 EST<![CDATA[LA 2009: Toyota debuts its plug-in Prius for North America]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/toyota-prius-plug-in-hybrid-los-angeles-2009/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/toyota-prius-plug-in-hybrid-los-angeles-2009/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/toyota-prius-plug-in-hybrid-los-angeles-2009/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


Toyota Prius plug-in hybrid - Click above for high-res image gallery

Toyota rather unceremoniously parked their plug-in Prius hybrid prototype at its North American market debut during the LA Auto Show, while their new Sienna minivan got a royal welcome at its coming out party. At a show that saw the production-ish Chevrolet Volt appearing in public for the first time, it might have seemed likely that Toyota would have made a bigger deal of this model, but we just sort of stumbled upon it while checking out its big brother, the Lexus LFA.

The company did issue a press release, which you can read in its entirety after the jump. In it, they announce that a global demonstration program will start this month in Japan and that the first batch of 500 Lithium-Ion batteries for those vehicles is moving down the assembly line as we speak. The 2010 Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid (PHV) uses Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive package but adds their first generation lithium-ion battery so it can go all-electric further and more quickly than a traditional hybrid. The electric-only range is just 13 miles, but the Prius PHEV will be able to run all the way up to 60 mph in electric-only mode.

Beyond that, the plug-in Prius reverts to regular hybrid mode with the gas engine and electric motor trading off depending on load and demand. The gas engine is important on this Prius PHEV and cars like the Volt because it lessens the "range anxiety" drivers might feel in a pure electric - That uneasiness that comes from thinking you could be stranded when the batteries run down.

Japan and Europe split the first batch of 350 vehicles, but early next year, the next 150 examples are coming Stateside. These first PHEV vehicles will serve as a test program for real world driving needs, kind of like the MINI E program going on right now. Toyota has already announced that Boulder, CO is going to be the first community to get some of these plug-in hybrids - a surefire way for Toyota to see how cold temps affect battery performance. You can read the rest of the presser after the jump and there's a gallery available by clicking any image below.


Gallery: LA 2009: The plug-in Prius


Photos copyright (C)2009 Frank Filipponio/Weblogs, Inc.
[Source: Toyota]

Continue reading LA 2009: Toyota debuts its plug-in Prius for North America

LA 2009: Toyota debuts its plug-in Prius for North America originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 04 Dec 2009 08:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>la 2009la auto showLA Auto Show 2009LA ShowLa2009LaAutoShowLaAutoShow2009LaShowplug inplug in hybridplug-inplug-in hybridplug-in priusPlug-inHybridPlug-inPriuspluginPlugInHybridtoyota priustoyota prius hybridtoyota prius plug intoyota prius plug in hybridToyota Prius plug-inToyotaPriusToyotaPriusHybridToyotaPriusPlug-inToyotaPriusPlugInToyotaPriusPlugInHybridFri, 04 Dec 2009 08:29:00 EST<![CDATA[LA 2009: Custom "Mazdaspeed2" tops the fun-per-pound charts in LA]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/la-2009-mazdaspeed2-tops-the-fun-per-pound-charts-in-la/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/la-2009-mazdaspeed2-tops-the-fun-per-pound-charts-in-la/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/la-2009-mazdaspeed2-tops-the-fun-per-pound-charts-in-la/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Mazdaspeed2 Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

As cool as some of those custom Ford Fiestas are at the LA Auto Show, these even tidier Mazda2 customs really jumped out at us. Okay, maybe not all of the concepts so much as the "Mazdaspeed2" you see above. The Active2 Surf and Active2 Snow barely registered when we saw this green and grey fun machine. Dubbed the 2Evil Special and not really an official Mazdaspeed2 at all, this concept blends weekend track car with urban commuter in just the right proportions.

The other two concepts aren't quite as eye-catching as the 2Evil, but are fun nonetheless. The Active2 Surf has a slightly restyled exterior, 17-inch wheels, an H&R coil over suspension and was painted a bright green with MINI-like white wheels and mirror caps. We really dug the carbon fiber surfboard in the Thule roof rack, too. The Active2 Snow gets similar bodywork tweaks, along with the 17-inch wheels and the H&R setup with another Thule roof rack sporting matching snowboards.. Both cars also wear Active2 graphics. These two cars look like they are going to be easily duplicated by accessing the Mazda Accessories catalog.

Meanwhile, the 2Evil sits even lower thanks to its H&R coil-over setup, and is visually lowered even more courtesy of the aggressive body kit with its curb-scraping front lip and deep side skirts. The 2Evil also includes a new diffuser and spoiler in the back, limo-black windows, Le Mans-winning Mazda 787B tribute graphics, 17-inch wheels wrapped in Yokahama Advan tires, and a Magna performance exhaust system. The green highlights really bring the whole thing together to make it look like a spec series racer. Now if Mazda could just shoehorn in the Mazdaspeed3 turbo mill, they'd really be onto something. We can just imagine Grand-Am adding a CC (commuter car) class for fun little runabouts like this Mazda2, the MINI Cooper, Fiesta, Fiat 500, Honda Fit and the like.


Gallery: LA 2009: Custom Mazda2 Concepts


Photos copyright (C)2009 Frank Filipponio/Weblogs, Inc.
[Source: Mazda]

Continue reading LA 2009: Custom "Mazdaspeed2" tops the fun-per-pound charts in LA

LA 2009: Custom "Mazdaspeed2" tops the fun-per-pound charts in LA originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 Dec 2009 22:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 la auto show2009LaAutoShow2Evil2Evil Special2evilSpecialActive2Active2 SnowActive2 SurfActive2SnowActive2Surfla 2009la auto showLA Auto Show 2009LA ShowLa2009LaAutoShowLaAutoShow2009LaShowmazdamazda2mazdaspeed2Thu, 03 Dec 2009 22:02:00 EST<![CDATA[LA 2009: Luna and Toby model the 2010 Honda Element Dog Friendly package]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/2010-honda-element-dog-friendly-los-angeles-2009/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/2010-honda-element-dog-friendly-los-angeles-2009/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/2010-honda-element-dog-friendly-los-angeles-2009/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Luna, left, and Toby, model the Honda Element Dog Friendly edition - Click above for high-res image gallery

Honda certainly can't be accused of running a dog and pony show here at the LA Auto Show, because there were no ponies. They did, however, have the adorable Luna and Toby on hand to demonstrate their clever Dog Friendly system on this Honda Element. It's essentially a collapsible ramp and pup tent (couldn't resist) with tethers that keeps dogs secure in back while protecting the interior of your vehicle from stains and pet hair.

We've shown you this Dog Friendly setup before, but couldn't resist snapping a few pics of the system in action, especially now that it's available. The Dog Friendly package is available on any 2010 Honda Element model for an extra $995. besides the nylon kennel and ramp, the system includes a cushioned bed, a spill-proof water dish, a small 12-volt ventilation fan, seat covers for the second row, and rubber floor mats with a bone motif. Seems like a reasonable price for keeping one's pets safe and secure, especially considering it's a custom fit package from the people who actually build the vehicle itself. There's a full press release after the jump and some more pics of Toby and Luna in our high-res gallery below.


Gallery: LA 2009: Dog Friendly Honda Element


Photos copyright (C)2009 Frank Filipponio/Weblogs, Inc.
[Source: Honda]

Continue reading LA 2009: Luna and Toby model the 2010 Honda Element Dog Friendly package

LA 2009: Luna and Toby model the 2010 Honda Element Dog Friendly package originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 Dec 2009 20:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dog friendlyDog Friendly carDog Friendly ElementDog Friendly Element ConceptDog Friendly HondaDog Friendly Honda ElementDog Friendly Honda Element Conceptdog safetyDogFriendlyDogFriendlyCarDogFriendlyElementDogFriendlyElementConceptDogFriendlyHondaDogFriendlyHondaElementDogFriendlyHondaElementConceptDogSafetyhondahonda doghonda dog friendlyHonda dog-friendly Element concepthonda elementHondaDogHondaDog-friendlyElementConceptHondaDogFriendlyHondaElementla 2009la auto showLA Auto Show 2009LA ShowLa2009LaAutoShowLaAutoShow2009LaShowpet safepet safetyPetSafePetSafetyThu, 03 Dec 2009 20:58:00 EST<![CDATA[LA 2009: Hands-on with Hughes and Mercedes-Benz's new telematics apps]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/la-2009-hands-on-with-mercedes-benz-new-telematics-apps/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/la-2009-hands-on-with-mercedes-benz-new-telematics-apps/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/la-2009-hands-on-with-mercedes-benz-new-telematics-apps/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Hughes Telematics recently announced its partnership with Mercedes-Benz on the automaker's new line of "mbrace" mobile telematics solutions. The system, which connects mbrace-equipped vehicles with an app installed on the user's Apple iPhone or RIM Blackberry, allows people to lock and unlock their doors, contact roadside assistance, get in touch with a local dealer or find their vehicle in a crowded parking lot. It's a relatively trick technology that we spent some time with at the LA Auto Show, and there's plenty of potential on the horizon.

Continue reading LA 2009: Hands-on with Hughes and Mercedes-Benz's new telematics apps

LA 2009: Hands-on with Hughes and Mercedes-Benz's new telematics apps originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 Dec 2009 19:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 la auto show2009LaAutoShowhughes telematicsHughesTelematicslala 2009la auto showla showLa2009LaAutoShowLaShowmbracemercedes-benzThu, 03 Dec 2009 19:59:00 EST<![CDATA[LA 2009: Galpin Motors makes up for Aston Martin no-show, brings the whole lineup]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/la-2009-galpin-motors-makes-up-for-aston-martin-no-show-brings/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/la-2009-galpin-motors-makes-up-for-aston-martin-no-show-brings/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/la-2009-galpin-motors-makes-up-for-aston-martin-no-show-brings/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Galpin Aston Martin at the 2009 Los Angeles Auto Show - Click above for a high-res image gallery

It's been a meager LA Auto Show this year for exotic cars. Many didn't even show up, including Ferrari, Lamborghini, and Bentley. Aston Martin wasn't on the list as well, but to our surprise their full line of cars was on display. Apparently Galpin Motors decided to pick up the slack and brought a decent selection of the inventory from the Van Nuys, CA showroom. We generally don't think of Aston Martin when we hear about Galpin, but the world's largest Ford dealer also has an impressive showroom for the British marque. In fact, it's where we were able to get up close and personal with the Aston Martin One-77.

Beau Boeckmann, Vice President of Galpin Motors, told us that they considered the show important enough for their Aston Martin sales to make the investment. This makes us wonder how the absence of Ferrari, Lamborghini and the like will impact local dealers. If so, we can see many following Galpin's lead and bringing cars next year like many of the regional shows. Only time will tell, but we can't imagine the exotic car manufacturers staying away from the auto show in one of their most important markets for too long.


Gallery: LA 2009: Galpin Aston Martin


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

LA 2009: Galpin Motors makes up for Aston Martin no-show, brings the whole lineup originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 Dec 2009 19:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 la auto show2009LaAutoShowAston MartinAstonMartinGalpin Aston MartinGalpin MotorsGalpinAstonMartinGalpinMotorsLA 2009LA Auto ShowLA ShowLa2009LaAutoShowLaShowThu, 03 Dec 2009 19:32:00 EST<![CDATA[LA 2009: Audi A3 TDI named 2010 Green Car of the Year in diesel repeat]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/2010-audi-a3-tdi-green-car-of-the-year-los-angeles-2009/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/2010-audi-a3-tdi-green-car-of-the-year-los-angeles-2009/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/2010-audi-a3-tdi-green-car-of-the-year-los-angeles-2009/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Audi A3 TDI - Click above for high-res image gallery

At the LA Auto Show this morning, the Audi A3 TDI was crowned the 2010 Green Car of the Year, wresting the title away from last year's winner, the Volkswagen Jetta TDI. Even though three hybrids made this year's list of finalists, the A3's win marks the second year in a row that a TDI diesel car took top honors in the Green Car Journal competition.

The judges selection kind of meshes with AutoblogGreen readers, who overwhelmingly picked the VW Golf TDI from the list of five finalists. The other contenders were the Honda Insight, the Mercury Milan Hybrid (we still don't get why this car beat out the better-selling and nearly identical Ford Fusion Hybrid) and the Toyota Prius.

Each year, Green Car Journal picks the five finalists and then hands over selection duties to celebrity jurors (Jay Leno, Carroll Shelby, and the Sierra Club's Carl Pope, to name a few). During the award ceremony, Green Car Journal editor Ron Cogan said that the five finalists are notable because they are all mainstream vehicles that are available today. They exist because that's what the market is asking for. Whaddya think? Is the A3 TDI this year's rightful Green Car of the Year?


Gallery: Audi A3 TDI - 2010 Green Car of the Year


[Source: Green Car Journal]

Continue reading LA 2009: Audi A3 TDI named 2010 Green Car of the Year in diesel repeat

LA 2009: Audi A3 TDI named 2010 Green Car of the Year in diesel repeat originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 Dec 2009 18:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 la auto show2009LaAutoShow2010 audi A32010 Audi a3 tdi2010AudiA32010AudiA3Tdia3a3 tdiA3Tdiaudiaudi a3audi a3 tdiaudi dieselAudiA3AudiA3TdiAudiDieseldieselgreen cargreen car journalgreen car of the yearGreenCarGreenCarJournalGreenCarOfTheYearla 2009la auto showla showla2009LaAutoShowLaShowlos angeleslos angeles 2009LosAngelesLosAngeles2009tdiThu, 03 Dec 2009 18:41:00 EST<![CDATA[LA 2009: Bye-bye boxy, hello 2010 Hyundai Tucson]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/2010-hyundai-tucson-at-2009-la-auto-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/2010-hyundai-tucson-at-2009-la-auto-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/2010-hyundai-tucson-at-2009-la-auto-show/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2010 Hyundai Tucson - Click above for high-res image gallery

Hyundai just took the wraps off their all new 2010 Tucson CUV. A right-sized (i.e. compact) crossover designed in Frankfurt, Germany - as opposed to the California designed Sonata we saw yesterday - but still uses Hyundai's new design language, the oddly named Fluidic Sculpture. Like the Sonata, the new bigger-yet-lighter Tuscon (61 pounds, to be precise) has been designed to convey a sense of motion. Of course, whether they succeeded or not is up to the beholder's eye.

Hyundai feels that the compact CUV market is growing (as does the rest of the industry), however the small crossover buyer is changing. Used to be that when people shopped for say a Tucson, it was because they couldn't afford an Excursion. No more. The new small CUV buyer expects a higher level of comfort and refinement from their little truck-like rides. If what Hyundai's peddling proves true, the Tucson's impressive list of standard bells and/or whistles fits this projected market to a tee (see the press release for the full lowdown).

The most impressive Tuscon attribute is in likelihood its frugal MPG rating. 23 miles per gallon in the city, 31 at highway speeds. In addition to the slight weight reduction, the Tucson achieves these numbers via innovations such as a switch away from parasitic hydraulic power-steering in favor of an electric system. There's also an all new six-speed automatic that uses 62 fewer parts than the outgoing five-speed. Interestingly, the new slusher is built fully in house by Hyundai.

The engine of course contributes to the good-for-a-CUV mileage. The new Tucson comes with a 2.4-liter Theta II four-cylinder that produces 176 hp and 168 lb-ft of torque. You will notice that the Tucson does not come with the more powerful Gasoline Direct-Injection (GDI) Theta II that ships with the new Sonata. We asked Hyundai if a future iteration of the Tucson (say the 2011) would in fact receive the GDI motor. "That's a logical conclusion."

We also asked if the turbocharged GDI motor would make it into the Tuscon. "It would fit." We then asked if we'll see a hybrid version as the new Sonata will eventually show up in gas-electric guise. "No comment." Then after a pause, "We all have to get to 35.5 mpg." Finally, we asked if we'd see an all-electric version of the Tucson. We received another "No comment," but Hyundai North America President and CEO John Krafcik did state that they will be selling an electric car in the States. As to when, "Not next year." Read the press release, after the jump.


Gallery: LA 2009: 2010 Hyundai Tucson


Gallery: 2010 Hyundai Tucson

Continue reading LA 2009: Bye-bye boxy, hello 2010 Hyundai Tucson

LA 2009: Bye-bye boxy, hello 2010 Hyundai Tucson originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 Dec 2009 18:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 la auto show2009LaAutoShow2010 Hyundai Tucson2010HyundaiTucson2011 Tucson2011TucsonFluidic DesignFluidicDesignHyundaiHyundai TucsonHyundaiTucsonLA 2009LA Auto ShowLA ShowLa2009LaAutoShowLaShowTucsonThu, 03 Dec 2009 18:19:00 EST<![CDATA[Best Buy Geek Squads to start testing Mitsubishi i-MiEV]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/best-buy-geek-squad-mitsubishi-i-miev/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/best-buy-geek-squad-mitsubishi-i-miev/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/best-buy-geek-squad-mitsubishi-i-miev/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Mitsubishi Geek Squad i-MiEV - Click above for high-res image gallery

While Mitsubishi didn't unveil any new vehicles at the LA Auto Show today, company president Osamu Masuko did announce the latest step in his company's plan to bring plug-in vehicles to North America. The vehicle - well, one of them - is an all-electric i-MiEV plastered with Best Buy's Geek Squad logo. The electronics giant will start using them in January (after they're shown off at CES) at some Geek Squad locations in California. Details have not yet been totally worked out, but the Geek EVs will start with a fleet of four vehicles and then expand and rotate to other stores over the course of three years. Most likely, the i-MiEVs will be doled out in pairs and the probable early cities where these vehicles will make house calls include Chicago, New York, Portland and San Francisco.

Best Buy plans to use the i-MiEVs just like any other fleet car, with the exception that they will be right-hand drive. Best Buy's Senior Vice President of emerging business, Rick Rommel, told AutoblogGreen that the idea is to learn "how these will fit into a Geek's daily life." The plug-in vehicle tests with Geek Squad are unrelated to how select West Coast Best Buy stores are selling electric bikes. That said, Rommel admits that the key thing is that Best Buy likes to conduct new experiments, and these EVs fit into that general concept.


Gallery: Best Buy Geek Squad i-MIEV


Live photos copyright (C)2009 Sebastian Blanco / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Best Buy Geek Squads to start testing Mitsubishi i-MiEV

Best Buy Geek Squads to start testing Mitsubishi i-MiEV originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 Dec 2009 17:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 la auto show2009LaAutoShowbest buybest buy electric vehiclesbest buy evsBest Buy Inc.Best Buy StoresBestBuyBestBuyElectricVehiclesBestBuyEvsBestBuyInc.BestBuyStoresGeek SquadGeekSquadi-mievimievla 2009la auto showLA Auto Show 2009la showLa2009LaAutoShowLaAutoShow2009LaShowlashow2009mievmitsumitsubishimitsubishi imievMitsubishiImievosamu masukoOsamuMasukoPX-MiEVrick rommelRickRommelThu, 03 Dec 2009 17:58:00 EST