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[Gordon Murray working on EV version of city car?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/07/gordon-murray-working-on-ev-version-of-city-car/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/07/gordon-murray-working-on-ev-version-of-city-car/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/07/gordon-murray-working-on-ev-version-of-city-car/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Gordon Murray's T25 city car looks pretty impressive on paper. It boasts higher cargo capacity and more seats (three) than a Smart Fortwo - and it promises to be built for maximum efficiency. According to Autocar, Gordon Murray says the T25 will be motivated by both naturally-aspirated and turbocharged versions of the 660-cc Mitsubishi engine, but Murray is also reportedly working on an electric version of the still unseen city car.

The aim of the T27 would be to make the most efficient electric vehicle on earth, although details of the propulsion system are at this point nonexistent. The alleged EV city car has reportedly been made possible by a £4.5 million ($7.46 million USD) investment from the U.K.'s government-backed Technology Strategy board along with £3 million ($4.975 million) from Gordon Murray design and £1.5 million ($2.48 million) from Zytec Automotive Technology.

If Murray's plans for the T27 are anything like those of the T25, the successful F1 designer won't produce the vehicle himself, instead opting to sell the rights to build the car to third-party assemblers like Apple, Sony or Virgin. The aim of the 16-month T27 project is to build four prototypes and eventually develop a manufacturing facility that utilizes Murray's reportedly brilliant iStream manufacturing process.

[Source: Autocar]

Gordon Murray working on EV version of city car? originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 07 Nov 2009 18:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>citicarcity carCityCarf1 designerF1Designergordon murrayGordonMurrayistream manufacturingIstreamManufacturingmicrocart25T25 city carT25CityCart27Sat, 07 Nov 2009 18:26:00 EST<![CDATA[SEMA Preview: Subaru bringing tuned STI, Legacy and 1969 360 van]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/30/sema-preview-subaru-bringing-tuned-sti-legacy-and-1969-360-van/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/30/sema-preview-subaru-bringing-tuned-sti-legacy-and-1969-360-van/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/30/sema-preview-subaru-bringing-tuned-sti-legacy-and-1969-360-van/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

1969 Subaru 360 SPT Delivery Van -- Click above image for high-res gallery

SEMA is just around the corner and aside from the inevitable Camaro riot that will be taking place in the convention center's parking lot, many auto folks are showing up with tuned rides. Like, for instance, Subaru. SPT is Subaru's in house tuning division and they're cooking up three nifty cars to put on display, each one better than the next.

First up is the WRX STI by SPT designed to demonstrate, "what a WRX STI owner can build at home using just the SPT catalog as a source for bolt-on parts." It's got ten more ponies (315, up from the stock STI's 305 hp), big old gold wheels, and special springs, sway bars and a lower chassis brace. Surely nice, but nothing new.

In Tokyo, it's all about "bippu," which is JDM for VIP. As such, Subaru has gone ahead and built a Legacy 2.5GT VIP for big ballers everywhere. What sets it apart? Well, for one thing, bippu means going low. To facilitate this, the top mounted Subaru intercooler is removed and replaced with a Mishimoto front-mounted intercooler to make room for the custom engine bay cover. But you got to go lower than that -- so the Legacy VIP gets air suspension to really kiss the ground. There's a whole bunch more, too, including Shinjuku Black Plum paint and the pleated leather interior.

But, the car we're really excited about is the van. Yeah man, a 1969 Subaru 360 delivery van to be precise. An honest to goodness microcar! Ten feet long. Four feet wide. Two-cylinder, two-stroke 25-hp engine. Suicide front doors -- and it's being fully restored as an SPT parts delivery van. But here's the cool part for those of you not making it out to SEMA -- the SPT parts van will tour the country going from dealership to dealership. Have you ever seen anything so close to perfection in your life? Didn't think so. Big old press release, after the jump.


Gallery: SEMA 2009: Subaru Preview


[Source: Subaru]

Continue reading SEMA Preview: Subaru bringing tuned STI, Legacy and 1969 360 van

SEMA Preview: Subaru bringing tuned STI, Legacy and 1969 360 van originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 30 Oct 2009 15:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Legacy VIPLegacyVipMicrocarMicrocarsSPTSTISubaruSubaru 360Subaru 360 VanSubaru LegacySubaru Legacy 2.5GTSubaru Legacy 2.5GT VIPSubaru Legacy VIPSubaru360Subaru360VanSubaruLegacySubaruLegacy2.5gtSubaruLegacy2.5gtVipSubaruLegacyVipWRXWRX STI by SPTWrxStiBySptFri, 30 Oct 2009 15:29:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Ridiculous vintage JDM action! Roller-skating ninja vs. Bubu 501]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/27/video-ridiculous-vintage-jdm-action-roller-skating-ninja-vs-b/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/27/video-ridiculous-vintage-jdm-action-roller-skating-ninja-vs-b/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/27/video-ridiculous-vintage-jdm-action-roller-skating-ninja-vs-b/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Ninja vs. BuBu - Follow the jump to watch video

No need to belabor this - you really just need to watch. The three-wheeled hero car is a BuBu 501 by Mitsuoka, and yes, it's being chased and attacked by a group of ninja. On roller skates. Doing stunts. (Don't miss the absurd roller disco-style maneuver that has one ninja pull another through his legs for no discernible reason whatsoever.)

Even if you've seen this vintage Japanese footage before, you're going to want to revisit it, so follow the jump and let the awesome wash over you.

[Source: YouTube via Twitter]

Continue reading VIDEO: Ridiculous vintage JDM action! Roller-skating ninja vs. Bubu 501

VIDEO: Ridiculous vintage JDM action! Roller-skating ninja vs. Bubu 501 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 27 Aug 2009 12:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>501awesomebubububu 501Bubu501martial artsMartialArtsmicrocarmitsuokaninjaninja movieNinjaMovieThu, 27 Aug 2009 12:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: Mystery concept caught in Spain]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/23/spy-shots-mystery-concept-caught-in-spain/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/23/spy-shots-mystery-concept-caught-in-spain/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/23/spy-shots-mystery-concept-caught-in-spain/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Mystery concept car in Barcelona -- Click above for image gallery

Autoblog Quiz of the Day: the minicar pictured above was spotted in Barcelona, Spain at Central del Poblenou Park, during what sounds like a photo or commercial shoot. Two people were caught driving it, the one in the sky blue outfit and hat looks to be a model/actress. The car, devoid of any logos or identifying marks, was accompanied by several trucks with French license plates - along with about ten people who didn't appreciate the person taking photos. Can anyone help us solve the mystery? Check out the image gallery below, and leave your guessses in 'Comments.'


Gallery: Mystery Concept Car in Barcelona


[Source: Autoblog Spanish (translated) | Photo credit: X15A]

Spy Shots: Mystery concept caught in Spain originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 23 Jul 2009 11:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>barcelonaconcept carConceptCareuropemicrocarminicarspainspy photosspy shotsSpyPhotosSpyShotsurban carUrbanCarThu, 23 Jul 2009 11:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Rendered Speculation: Honda to create mini-hatch for emerging markets]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/09/rendered-speculation-honda-to-create-mini-hatch-for-emerging-ma/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/09/rendered-speculation-honda-to-create-mini-hatch-for-emerging-ma/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/09/rendered-speculation-honda-to-create-mini-hatch-for-emerging-ma/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



Lost in the jeers following Honda's move to cancel the NSX - a car it could probably sell based solely on its ridiculously wonderful exhaust note - is news that the Big H is planning an A-segment car for markets outside of Japan. Now that the microcar segment is what's cooking, and the smart fortwo isn't doing so bad on its American voyage, cars like the Toyota iQ, Volkswagen up!, and Hyundai i10 are getting lots of attention.

To keep the cost down, Honda is expected to stick to traditional materials and probably focus on packaging. The powerplant is rumored to be a 1.4- or 1.5-liter turbodiesel with anywhere from 60 hp to 100 hp. But before you get excited, this car isn't automatically destined for America. Of course, none of this would-be Honda's competitors are headed this way yet either, and until the microcar trend is firmly established in the US - either by smart or another vehicle - we wouldn't advise holding your breath.

[Source: Paul Tan]

Rendered Speculation: Honda to create mini-hatch for emerging markets originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 09 Jan 2009 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-segmenteconomyemerging marketsEmergingMarketshatchbackhondai10iqmicrocarsmartupFri, 09 Jan 2009 19:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Upgraded Bunny: Suzuki unveils updated Alto Lapin]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/30/upgraded-bunny-suzuki-unveils-updated-alto-lapin/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/30/upgraded-bunny-suzuki-unveils-updated-alto-lapin/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/30/upgraded-bunny-suzuki-unveils-updated-alto-lapin/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above for a hi-res gallery of the Suzuki Alto Lapin

Sporting a name that could roughly mean "high pitched rabbit" is loveably quirky, and so it fits that the name is affixed to a kei car. Suzuki's 660cc microcar, styled in the same idiom that has shaped Nissan's Cube, though the 'Zuki calls to mind the original Mini more than other squared-off micros. The styling is about the only thing that Suzuki hasn't changed on the Alto Lapin, which has been on sale since 2002. There are upgrades to the platform, powertrain, and interior, making the Alto Lapin a virtually new vehicle. The interior rework brings a newfound sense of space, if that can truly be said about anything so tiny, and the stylish design is rendered in classy materials. A new CVT makes the most of the 53 naturally aspirated or 63 turbocharged horsepower while delivering nearly 58 mpg. The car, with its inherent cuteness, is aimed at women buyers (like many other keis, it's offered in pink), and there's a whole line of "Lapin Goods" to go along with the car. With a price between $11,000 and $15,000, there's some scratch left over for trinkum that will make you nearly as stylish as your Alto Lapin. Click here for a translated version of Suzuki's press release.

Gallery: Suzuki Alto Lapin


[Source: Suzuki via Autofiends]

Upgraded Bunny: Suzuki unveils updated Alto Lapin originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 30 Nov 2008 16:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alto lapinAltoLapinkei alto lapinKeiAltoLapinmicrocarsuzuki alto lapinsuzuki keisuzuki lapinsuzuki microcarSuzukiAltoLapinSuzukiKeiSuzukiLapinSuzukiMicrocarSun, 30 Nov 2008 16:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Toyota releases pricing and spec info for European iQ]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/10/toyota-releases-pricing-and-spec-info-for-european-iq/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/10/toyota-releases-pricing-and-spec-info-for-european-iq/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/10/toyota-releases-pricing-and-spec-info-for-european-iq/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the production Toyota iQ

IF you're in Europe and hoping to get your name on a list for a Toyota iQ, now's the time. Toyota has opened up the order banks for the cleverly packaged microcar prior to its January availability date, while also giving up the goods on available specs, options, and pricing. The iQ comes in only two trim levels, iQ and iQ2, and pricing starts at £9,495 for the manual, and £10,495 for the multidrive CVT transmission. All iQ models come with 15-inch alloys, heated and electrically adjustable door mirrors, air conditioning and six speaker audio system with auxiliary socket. Checking the box for the iQ2 adds another £1,000, but for the money you receive high-gloss wheels, fog lamps, auto headlights and rain sensing wipers, smart entry and start system and climate control.

The iQ is pretty damn small, but Toyota is stuffing the tiny coupe with plenty of standard safety features, including ABS, Vehicle Stability Control, Traction Control and nine airbags, including the world's first rear window airbag. Toyota also offers five different option packages including leather seats, navigation, and iSport, iUrban and iStyle packages. The iQ may be small, but after looking at the specs, it looks like Toyota went out of its way to give you just about any option you can dream up for a bargain basement price. You just can't get one if you live in the US, at least not yet. Hit the jump to view Toyota's detailed press release.

Gallery: Production Toyota iQ


[Source: Toyota]

Continue reading Toyota releases pricing and spec info for European iQ

Toyota releases pricing and spec info for European iQ originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 10 Oct 2008 18:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>europeiq specs and pricesIqSpecsAndPricesmicrocartoyota iqToyotaIqFri, 10 Oct 2008 18:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Nissan's Nuvu electric car to compete with Toyota iQ]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/09/09/nissans-nuvo-electric-car-to-compete-with-toyota-iq/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/09/09/nissans-nuvo-electric-car-to-compete-with-toyota-iq/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/09/09/nissans-nuvo-electric-car-to-compete-with-toyota-iq/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

October's Paris Motor Show will be the stage for Nissan to unveil their new Nuvu concept, an electric 2+1 micro-car that would compete with the Toyota iQ if the automaker rolls it out. At less than ten feet long, the Nuvu will be about the same size as a smart fortwo, but powered solely by a battery. There are two main seats and an extra seat for a third passenger. According to Nissan, there is "sufficient space for a typical supermarket or shopping expedition". Demonstrating Nissan's commitment to EV technology, and their environmentally-conscience green side, the Nuvu's all-glass roof is covered with solar panels placed in the pattern of leaves on a tree. The "trunk" of the tree is the conduit feeding the power to the battery. Nissan hasn't released pictures of their newest EV, but we promise full details and a gallery when we see it in person next month.

[Source: Autocar]

Nissan's Nuvu electric car to compete with Toyota iQ originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 09 Sep 2008 16:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electricMicro CarMicroCarNissan MicrocarNissan NuvuNissanMicrocarNissanNuvusolar panelsSolarPanelsTue, 09 Sep 2008 16:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Details on Mazda1 revealed]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/26/details-on-mazda1-revealed/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/26/details-on-mazda1-revealed/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/26/details-on-mazda1-revealed/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



High energy costs and growth in emerging markets have automakers scrambling to downsize their product plans, and ultra-small transportation like the VW up! is bound to bring low-cost city cars to the masses. Mazda intends to be a serious player in this burgeoning segment and will unveil the Mazda1 concept in Paris this fall, expected to look like the sketch above and influenced by the Nagare design language.

Mazda promises that the production vehicle will be more "radical" in production trim, though it likely won't carry fuel cells and batteries like the concept. The automaker does plan on offering amenities like navigation, Bluetooth and iPod connectivity, and the micro will have sliding doors and seats to make getting in and out easier. Mazda engineers are also working hard to make sure the Mazda1 is environmentally friendly, which means low emissions, small powertrains, and low weight. Fortunately, those very same attributes will also help keep costs down, which should help Mazda offer the vehicle everywhere from India and China to more developed regions like Europe and the US.

[Source: Auto Express]

Details on Mazda1 revealed originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 26 May 2008 16:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BluetoothconceptipodMazda1microcarnavigationparisMon, 26 May 2008 16:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Nissan/Renault considering Nano competitor for India]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/08/nissan-renault-considering-nano-competitor-for-india/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/08/nissan-renault-considering-nano-competitor-for-india/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/08/nissan-renault-considering-nano-competitor-for-india/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Countries like China and India are a hotbed for the auto industry, and every major automaker is looking to improve its standing in the emerging markets while they're still on the ground floor. Low-cost micro cars are all the rage in the East, and Nissan/Renault is looking into getting a piece of that action by producing a Nano fighter. Nissan Motor India Director Neeraj Garg told The Times of India that while higher priced sedans and SUVs are also scheduled for India's booming auto market, a low-priced hatch is also on the wishlist if the pricing is right.

Company officials say that the low-cost transportation could be among six new products scheduled for India by 2012, and with the country's low-cost labor, Nissan/Renault could also export any vehicles it makes there.

[Source: The Times of India]

Nissan/Renault considering Nano competitor for India originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 08 May 2008 09:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Indiamicro carMicroCarNissanRenaultTata NanoTataNanoThu, 08 May 2008 09:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Nissan 360: the Cube]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/29/nissan-360-the-cube/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/29/nissan-360-the-cube/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/29/nissan-360-the-cube/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the Nissan Cube.

Let's just get this out of the way right now: this blogger is going to buy one of these cars when they come to America. And I'm a die-hard 385-plus-horsepower sports car owner for years now. And I live in LA. But the Cube is just that great. So Nissan, don't pull a bait-and-switch, please...

The Cube is basic, and makes no attempt to dress it up. In fact, not only is the car not gussied up, but the entire interior of the car I drove was beige. And it was still hot. It's basic done completely right, with tons of cubbies and comfort in an enormous (relatively speaking) cabin and a unified design theme inside and outside that ties it all together.

The 1.5-liter, 107-HP engine has got the giddy-up-and-go, and the car is so much fun to drive that you'll cackle like an old hen every time you throw it around a corner. I admit I won't be buying one in sky blue, and it won't have the third row -- that row is more than a bit optimistic -- but I will have no problem showing everyone I know that "cool" is now spelled "cube."

You can check out the Nissan 360 event site for more details on all the vehicles in Nissan's lineup. In the mean time, be sure to check out the gallery of hi-res photos below.

Gallery: Nissan 360: the Cube



Our travel and lodging for this media event was provided by the manufacturer.

Nissan 360: the Cube originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 29 Apr 2008 19:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cubekei carKeiCarmicro carmicrocarnissannissan 360nissan cubeNissan360NissanCubeTue, 29 Apr 2008 19:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Toyota considering Indian plant for small car production]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/29/toyota-considering-indian-plant-for-small-car-production/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/29/toyota-considering-indian-plant-for-small-car-production/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/29/toyota-considering-indian-plant-for-small-car-production/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above for more high-res images of the Toyota iQ

Toyota has been working on an affordable small car that will be cost-competitive in emerging markets, and Autocar is reporting that India is being considered as a destination for production. India makes sense due to its low-cost labor, and with competitors like the Tata Nano going for as little as $2,500, the world's biggest automaker will need to cut cost everywhere it can. There is no word as to exactly what vehicle would be produced in India, but one option is Toyota's production iQ from Geneva, which is scheduled to begin production later in 2008. Toyota is looking for initial sales of the iQ to crest 100,000 units.

Gallery: 2009 Toyota iQ


[Source: Autocar via Winding Road]

Toyota considering Indian plant for small car production originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 29 Apr 2008 08:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>IndiaiQMicrocarTata NanoTataNanoToyotaTue, 29 Apr 2008 08:56:00 EST<![CDATA[eBay Find of the Day: the Goggomobile]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/08/06/ebay-find-of-the-day-the-goggomobile/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/08/06/ebay-find-of-the-day-the-goggomobile/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/08/06/ebay-find-of-the-day-the-goggomobile/#commentsFiled under: ,

Years ago in Australia there was a TV commercial for the phone company's yellow pages that featured a man looking for parts for his Goggomobile. Since no one knew what he was talking about, he was always having to spell the car's name. In a Scottish brogue (yes, a Scottish actor in an Aussie ad) he'd repeatedly belt out G-o-g-g-o. Finally, with the help of the yellow pages, he finds a parts supplier who speaks his language. I haven't seen the commercial in years but every once in a while I'll get the urge to don a Scottish accent and spell the car.

In fact, I had never even seen the car until a tipster sent this one in from eBay. Looking like something straight out of the movie Cars, the Goggomobile was a Bavarian micro car built from 1955 to 1969. It has a 2-cylinder, air-cooled engine behind the rear wheels. That powerplant is about 24 cubic inches and gets about 20 hp. You won't get anywhere quickly, but you'll be cute as a button while you're doing it. The seller claims it's one of less than ten in the US. For a slice of exclusivity and Germano-Scotus-Australian history, the bidding begins at $2,000.

Thanks for the tip, Jordan!

[Source: eBay]

eBay Find of the Day: the Goggomobile originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 06 Aug 2007 10:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>germanygoggomobilemicro carMicroCarMon, 06 Aug 2007 10:51:00 EST<![CDATA[Frankfurt preview: VW to debut rear-engine city car]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/08/02/frankfurt-preview-vw-to-debut-rear-engine-city-car/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/08/02/frankfurt-preview-vw-to-debut-rear-engine-city-car/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/08/02/frankfurt-preview-vw-to-debut-rear-engine-city-car/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


The Tiguan is one of eight models making their Frankfurt debut.

Volkswagen is gearing up for Frankfurt and has no intention of disappointing the seething throngs of media-types when it lifts the curtain on its home turf. A total of eight new models will debut, including the Tiguan, six BlueMotion-equipped models and, most intriguing, a new micro car dubbed the City Expert that's equipped with a powerplant that "will beat where the flat-four 'Boxer' engine once did in the Beetle."

We've reported on rumors of a rear-engine vehicle in the past, and although it was easy to dismiss with a shrug, the market is ripe for an ultra-inexpensive model that VW claims is "sensationally flexible." That last part leaves us wondering what kind of body styles the City Expert will be available in, likely a three-door hatch, four-door sedan and five-door wagon. It's safe to expect that luggage space will be at a premium, considering the rear-mounted mill and the radiator, A/C and battery are likely to be fitted up front.

The real question is what kind of motor will fill the trunk, and rumors are beginning to circulate that two- and three-cylinder powerplants will provide motivation. We'll have to wait until next month rolls along to get all the official details, but in the meantime get your speculation caps on and read through the press release after the jump.

[Source: VW]

Continue reading Frankfurt preview: VW to debut rear-engine city car

Frankfurt preview: VW to debut rear-engine city car originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 02 Aug 2007 08:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bluemotioncity carcity expertCityCarCityExpertmicro carMicroCarrear enginerear-engineRearEnginetiguanvolkswagenvwThu, 02 Aug 2007 08:26:00 EST<![CDATA[Have money, need growth: GM to invest $6b in Daewoo]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/07/28/have-money-need-growth-gm-to-invest-6b-in-daewoo/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/07/28/have-money-need-growth-gm-to-invest-6b-in-daewoo/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/07/28/have-money-need-growth-gm-to-invest-6b-in-daewoo/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



GM has been rapidly expanding in countries outside the US, and South Korea-based Daewoo has been a major contributor to the company's growth in developing markets. GM is redoubling their commitment to Daewoo by investing $6 billion in the once bankrupt automaker over the next few years. President and chief executive of GM DAT Michael Grimaldi says the money will be used to expand design, engineering, and for new plants and products. Among the projects on the table are a mini car and a small car, which could mean that some form of the Beat, Trax, or Groove could be in the pipeline. With relatively low labor costs and a free trade agreement with the US, GM Daewoo could expand their role of providing low-cost economy cars to our shores, but with a Chevy badge.

[Source: Channel NewsAsia]

Have money, need growth: GM to invest $6b in Daewoo originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 28 Jul 2007 10:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BeatDaewooGMGrooveMicro carMicroCarSmall CarSmallCarTraxxSat, 28 Jul 2007 10:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Toyota set to unveil microcar in Frankfurt]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/04/30/toyota-set-to-unveil-microcar-in-frankfurt/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/04/30/toyota-set-to-unveil-microcar-in-frankfurt/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/04/30/toyota-set-to-unveil-microcar-in-frankfurt/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Automotive News has a quick blurb about a new model set to debut from the folks at Toyota during this year's Frankfurt Motor Show. According to AN, Toyota's 3000mm-long microcar will be known as the Endo and will slot in below the Aygo, the smallest vehicle in the automaker's European lineup.

Styling of the SMART-competitor will be similar to the concept that debuted at the 2005 Frankfurt Motor Show, sharing the same name. The seating arrangement of the Endo will be somewhat unconventional, with a 3+1 setup that will seat three adults, along with a smaller, foldable throne behind the driver's seat that can fit a youngin.

Automotive News' inside source says that sales may begin in the summer of 2008, although we wouldn't expect such a vehicle to find its way across the Atlantic - unless SMART starts doing a booming business.

[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req.]

Toyota set to unveil microcar in Frankfurt originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 30 Apr 2007 06:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Why you ask? They already have the Yaris taking care of the B-segment market, why on earth would they want to import something even smaller? One word: SMART.

According to Inside Line's sources, Toyota may bring the Aygo, already a popular city-car in Europe, over to the U.S. in two-door form to battle the SMART by DaimlerChrysler. Even though D.C.'s mini-mobile hasn't even hit our shores and proven itself in a viable segment, Toyota may be expecting a blockbuster and doesn't want to be left out in the cold when a possible contender is waiting in the wings.

If Toyota does decide to bring a 'micro' to the States, expect it in 2008, along with the possibility of competition from the usual suspects, Honda, Nissan and Subaru.

[Source: Edmunds' Inside Line]

Toyota Aygo may make it to U.S. originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 20 Sep 2006 08:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Browsing the inventory of The Bruce Weiner Microcar Museum, we ran across this little beast. Based on BMW's Isetta 3-wheeler, a car barely able to get out of its own way, Weiner's Isetta "Whatta Drag" is, um, considerably quicker than the original model.

A case of life imitating art (or in this case, imitating toys), the Isetta thrill-ride is inspired by a Hot Wheels toy of the same name. Powered by a blown Chevy 502 cubic inch V8 putting out an estimated 730 hp, and weighing all of 1520 lb., we can assume that the demon Isetta has inspiring acceleration capabilities. Although the museum doesn't cite performance figures for the car, it's described as "very very fast" and "very very loud," and we believe it. Top speed is listed as "unknown," which could well mean that the museum has yet to find anyone willing to fully explore the car's performance envelope.

The Whatta Drag Isetta is described as able to "smoke any other microcar out there," and we don't doubt it for a moment. And with 730 hp driving just one 285/35 rear tire, we're betting that "smoke" would be the operative word... And of course, where there's smoke there's fire - the car is fitted with a switch that lets the driver throw flames out about 4 feet on each side.

More pics after the jump! Follow the link to browse the museum's collection - it's an amazing place.

[Source: The Bruce Weiner Microcar Museum]

Continue reading Find of the Day: 1959 BMW Isetta drag racer

Find of the Day: 1959 BMW Isetta drag racer originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Aug 2006 15:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmw isettaBmwIsettabubblecardrag racerdragsterhot rodHotRodisettamicrocarwhatta dragwhattadragTue, 08 Aug 2006 15:57:00 EST<![CDATA[i on the prize? Mitsubishi's unique new city car tested]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/06/11/i-on-the-prize-mitsubishis-unique-new-city-car-tested/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/06/11/i-on-the-prize-mitsubishis-unique-new-city-car-tested/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/06/11/i-on-the-prize-mitsubishis-unique-new-city-car-tested/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

AutoWeek spent a few days with the Mitsubishi i, the company's new microcar, in its native environ of Tokyo, Japan. While acknowledging some problems (seats designed for smaller frames, some ride discipline issues), the magazine came away impressed with its diminutive packaging, nippy handling, and amount of standard equipment.

AW indicates that Mitsubishi has brought over a pair of testers Stateside to see how the urban runabout fairs on North American roads.

Does this presage a move by Mitsubishi to sell the i in the U.S.? Given the company's precarious financial situation and ailing reputation, Autoblog's take is that this is highly unlikely. That said, we can certainly see a market for a vehicle like this in crowded city centers. With rising gas prices and the increasing hip-quotient of small cars in the U.S, thanks to vehicles like the MINI Cooper and Scion xB, a distinctive and thrifty motoring experience might just sell Americans.

[Source: AutoWeek]

i on the prize? Mitsubishi's unique new city car tested originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 11 Jun 2006 13:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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DaimlerChrysler Chief Executive Dieter Zetsche thinks that's the big question as the company readies the Smart ForTwo city car for sale in the U.S.

In a German magazine interview, Zetsche openly said that the company is looking for a U.S. retail partner, stating "The sales network is decisive...It is certain that we want to cooperate with a third party."

Although Mercedes-Benz Canada has been selling all the ForTwo's it can get its hands on since the brand's Canadian launch in late 2004, Zetsche doesn't think that solution will work in the U.S., perhaps concerned that adding Smart would dilute the luxury-market positioning of the Mercedes-Benz brand.

Dodge is the most likely DaimlerChrysler candidate to get Smart, but Zetsche doesn't think it's good fit, possibly thinking that the premium city car wouldn't fit well in the small car part of Dodge's product portfolio. The entry-level price for the ForTwo in Canada is about $15,000 USD.

Despite the distribution channel conundrum, Zetsche remains confident that DaimlerChrysler will find a way to sell the Smart in the U.S.

Us? Given DCX's recent tie-up with Volkswagen, we'd like to see them resurrect the fortunes of VW's killer ZX-3 trike, and pair it with Smart in some sort of alternative sales channel, perhaps partnering with a motorcycle or scooter outfit.

[Source: Reuters]

Who will sell Smart in the U.S.? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 08 Jun 2006 14:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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