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[Android integration comes to your car's mirror [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/19/android-integration-comes-to-your-cars-mirror-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/19/android-integration-comes-to-your-cars-mirror-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/19/android-integration-comes-to-your-cars-mirror-w-video/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Android rear-view mirror

Just when you thought manufacturers couldn't cram any more technology into a vehicle, CES rolls through Las Vegas to show off all-new levels of car-bound gadgetry. A company by the name of Rydeen hopes to produce a new range of stereo head units that run the Android operating system. The double-DIN units partner up with a touch-screen enabled rear-view mirror serve up all of the relevant applications we've come to know and love from our Android devices. Currently, Rydeen says it's just using the touchscreen rear-view mirrors as research tools, though a production version may hit the market by 2013.

That version will likely boast a more simple interface that should be easier for drivers to use without killing everyone else on the road. We're big fans of that plan, though we have to wonder about the viability of putting the touch screen in the rear-view mirror to begin with. Here's hoping Rydeen will turn to a traditional dash-mounted system in the future. Hit the jump to check out a video of the mirror for yourself.

Continue reading Android integration comes to your car's mirror [w/video]

Android integration comes to your car's mirror [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 19 Jan 2012 10:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidandroid rear view mirrorcesces 2012las vegasrear view mirrorrydeentechThu, 19 Jan 2012 10:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20150506/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/19/android-integration-comes-to-your-cars-mirror-w-video/20150506/article-detail.xml 20150506 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/android-mirror-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/android-mirror-628.jpg <![CDATA[General Motors, BMW to shack up on fuel cell development]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/12/general-motors-bmw-to-shack-up-on-fuel-cell-development/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/12/general-motors-bmw-to-shack-up-on-fuel-cell-development/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/12/general-motors-bmw-to-shack-up-on-fuel-cell-development/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

BMW Logo

Reuters reports that General Motors and BMW are headed toward a partnership that may see the two automakers join forces on the creation of a fuel cell system. German business magazine Wirtschafts Woche has cited unnamed industry sources as saying talks between the companies are already quite advanced, and that the duo may formalize the agreement soon.

GM has already established itself as an industry authority on fuel cell vehicles, and BMW is likely hoping to leverage some of that knowledge into its own products. GM has refused to comment on the partnership, though BMW has said that the two companies are "speaking about various future technologies."

The German automaker seems to be on the equivalent of a green-tech land grab. Earlier this month, the company announced a similar partnership with Toyota designed to foster collaboration toward new green technology.

We aren't surprised to see automakers joining forces on green tech. Research and development can be costly, and it only makes sense to spread that financial burden out amongst as many collaborators as possible.

General Motors, BMW to shack up on fuel cell development originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 12 Dec 2011 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwbmw gm collaborationcollaborationfuel cellfuel cell technologygeneral motorsGMgreentechtechnologyMon, 12 Dec 2011 09:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20125390/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/12/general-motors-bmw-to-shack-up-on-fuel-cell-development/20125390/article-detail.xml 20125390 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/bmw-logo-6287_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/bmw-logo-6287.jpg <![CDATA[Low-cost collision avoidance tech on the horizon for cheaper vehicles?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/low-cost-collision-avoidance-tech-on-the-horizon-for-cheaper-veh/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/low-cost-collision-avoidance-tech-on-the-horizon-for-cheaper-veh/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/low-cost-collision-avoidance-tech-on-the-horizon-for-cheaper-veh/#commentsFiled under: , ,



The fact is that small cars get into more accidents than large and mid-sized cars, and the fatality rates for small cars are about twice as high as their larger siblings. Yet it's the large - and usually expensive and luxurious - cars that get features like collision avoidance technology. That could change soon if TRW Automotive can get car makers to adopts its less expensive collision avoidance radar system.

The company introduced a 77-GHz collision warning radar for the Volkswagen Phaeton eight years ago. It has since developed a 24-GHz system that could be sold at a price point that makes sense for B- and C-segment cars. The lower price does come with a trade-off: the radar is most effective up to 87 miles per hour, and then its efficacy drops off. However, TRW is pitching its unit at the American market, where an 87-mph peak performance threshold would be plenty for the intended class of vehicles.

TRW is in talks now with automakers for a 2013 launch. For the time being, the company is mum on plans to launch in Europe.

[Source: Ward's Auto]

Low-cost collision avoidance tech on the horizon for cheaper vehicles? originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 01 Oct 2010 07:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>24 ghz radar77 ghz radarcollision avoidancecollision detectionradartechtrwtrw automotiveFri, 01 Oct 2010 07:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19648796/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/10/01/low-cost-collision-avoidance-tech-on-the-horizon-for-cheaper-veh/19648796/article-detail.xml 19648796 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/trwradarsmall_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/trwradarsmall.jpg <![CDATA[Rumormill: McLaren looking into hybrid tech for future sports cars]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/13/rumormill-mclaren-looking-into-hybrid-tech-for-future-sports-ca/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/13/rumormill-mclaren-looking-into-hybrid-tech-for-future-sports-ca/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/13/rumormill-mclaren-looking-into-hybrid-tech-for-future-sports-ca/#commentsFiled under: ,


McLaren MP4-12C - Click above for high-res image gallery

Last summer, McLaren Automotive posted a job vacancy for a senior engineer specializing in hybrid powertrain technology. This summer there's a new hybrid-related posting: one for an electrical engineer of hybrid electric vehicle systems. McLaren has made no secret of looking into hybrid propulsion, so this isn't exactly unexpected, it just reminds us the firm is very serious about it. According to a report in Autocar, McLaren wants to stay in the race with the hybrid systems that Lamborghini and Ferrari have mentioned.

The House of Ron Dennis plans to launch three cars in five variations over the next few years, but unlike Ferrari and Lamborghini, it only plans to sell 4,000 per year. It will be interesting to see what the English firm comes up with, knowing that McLaren aims to innovate and win, not merely keep up. We also wonder how closely it could tie into a KERS system from the Formula 1 team, a la Williams providing the solution for the Porsche GT3 R Hybrid.

Gallery: Getting Intimate with the McLaren MP4-12C


Photos Copyright (C) 2010 Drew Philips
[Source: Autocar]

Rumormill: McLaren looking into hybrid tech for future sports cars originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 13 Sep 2010 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mclarenmclaren hybridmclaren hybrid engineertechMon, 13 Sep 2010 09:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19630086/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/09/13/rumormill-mclaren-looking-into-hybrid-tech-for-future-sports-ca/19630086/article-detail.xml 19630086 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/mclarenhybridtech_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/mclarenhybridtech.jpg <![CDATA[Report: Mercedes-Benz developing 'Magic' active body control]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/09/report-mercedes-magic-active-body-control-coming/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/09/report-mercedes-magic-active-body-control-coming/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/09/report-mercedes-magic-active-body-control-coming/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Mercedes-Benz CL Class

Mercedes-Benz has codenamed its latest suite of driver convenience aids "Magic," and the automaker will soon introduce a Magic Carpet Magic Body Control suspension technology and a Magic Sky Control roof tech. Sadly, there are no wizards nor Tinkerbells involved in any of this, just a whole bunch of electro-hydraulic and magnetorheological engineering.

Magic Body Control is the next generation of Active Body Control. Created with the help of ZF, the system of bushings atop the strut towers neutralizes wheel and body movements at two different frequencies. Daimler's testing indicates that MBC reduces 80 percent of unsavory suspension reverberations. It will show up on the S-Class and CL-Class in 2013.

Magic Sky Control will be seen as soon as next year on the new SLK. Working like photochromatic sunglasses that get darker in the sun, a magnetorheological glass offers a range of opacity from "near totally clear" to "dark blue." It doesn't alter the form of the roof and can be applied to any window, so expect to see this new development work its way through Mercedes-Benz's lineup. This technology could be used around a car's entire greenhouse and perhaps obviate the need for sun visors.

[Source: Inside Line]

Report: Mercedes-Benz developing 'Magic' active body control originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 Sep 2010 19:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 Mercedes-Benz2011Mercedes-benz2012 mercedes2012 mercedes slk2012 Mercedes-Benz SLKcl-classmagic body controlmagic sky controlMagicSkyControls-classslktechThu, 09 Sep 2010 19:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19625961/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/09/09/report-mercedes-magic-active-body-control-coming/19625961/article-detail.xml 19625961 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/clclass630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/clclass630.jpg <![CDATA[Ford begins using WiFi to install Sync on assembly lines]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/31/ford-begins-using-wifi-to-install-sync-on-assembly-lines/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/31/ford-begins-using-wifi-to-install-sync-on-assembly-lines/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/31/ford-begins-using-wifi-to-install-sync-on-assembly-lines/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



In case you thought installing SYNC into Ford vehicles was a ho-hum-whatever affair, that's not the case - Ford puts a lot of thought into it. The Blue Oval's latest assembly line advance is to have SYNC's infotainment software installed into the 2011 Ford Edge via WiFi. Made possible by the the latest version of SYNC with WiFi access, the new process allows Ford to save money on parts and inventory by using a common module among vehicles in different cars and made in different plants. After the Edge, the Lincoln MKX and 2011 Explorer will gain the same systems. Follow the jump for the press release.

[Source: Ford]

Continue reading Ford begins using WiFi to install Sync on assembly lines

Ford begins using WiFi to install Sync on assembly lines originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 31 Aug 2010 08:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 edge2011 explorer2011 ford2011 ford edge2011 ford explorer2011 lincoln2011 lincoln mkx2011 mkx2011Edge2011Explorer2011Ford2011FordEdge2011FordExplorer2011Lincoln2011LincolnMkx2011Mkxford edgeford syncFordEdgeFordSyncsynctechTue, 31 Aug 2010 08:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19612353/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/08/31/ford-begins-using-wifi-to-install-sync-on-assembly-lines/19612353/article-detail.xml 19612353 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/08/fordsyncwifiinst_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/08/fordsyncwifiinst.jpg <![CDATA[It Will Never End: Mercedes-Benz reportedly working on nine-speed automatic]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/19/it-will-never-end-mercedes-reportedly-working-on-nine-speed-aut/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/19/it-will-never-end-mercedes-reportedly-working-on-nine-speed-aut/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/19/it-will-never-end-mercedes-reportedly-working-on-nine-speed-aut/#commentsFiled under: ,



According to Autocar, an admission by a Mercedes-Benz engineer proves that the company is working on a nine-speed automatic transmission. That isn't exactly new, since talk of such a beast has been broached before. The difference this time is that Autocar's sources says the gearbox will be "introduced on large-capacity engines."

With no numbers for context we can't be sure what's meant by "large-capacity." However, Motor Trend reported that the baby SLS would get a nine-speed double-clutch transmission for it's twin-turbo-V6-hybrid engine, and Automobile said that all of the next generation S-Classes, arriving in 2012, would "have hybrid powertrains and a new nine-speed automatic transmission."

We don't expect any of those engines to be of particularly large displacement, especially now that the SSK AMG appears to have gone from a twin-turbo V8 to a V6 twin turbo with electric assistance. Still, we have no doubt we'll see a nine-speed transmission somewhere. And when the Mercedes engineers opine that "nine ratios is the maximum that is technically possible, as well as being the most that customers will be able to cope with," we believe they're wrong. A company is really going to leave double-digit transmission bragging rights on the table? Uh, no. Can I get a ten-speed... anyone...?

[Source: Autocar]

It Will Never End: Mercedes-Benz reportedly working on nine-speed automatic originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 19 Jul 2010 16:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mercedesmercedes s-classmercedes sskmercedes-benzmercedes-benz s-classMercedes-benzS-classMercedesS-classMercedesSsknine speed transmissionNineSpeedTransmissions-classssk amgSskAmgtechTransmissionMon, 19 Jul 2010 16:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19559082/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/07/19/it-will-never-end-mercedes-reportedly-working-on-nine-speed-aut/19559082/article-detail.xml 19559082 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/07/mercedes9-speedtran_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/07/mercedes9-speedtran.jpg <![CDATA[Lamborghini announces new carbon fiber research center]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/14/lamborghini-announces-new-carbon-fiber-research-center/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/14/lamborghini-announces-new-carbon-fiber-research-center/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/14/lamborghini-announces-new-carbon-fiber-research-center/#commentsFiled under: ,

Lamborghini's Advanced Composite Research Center - Click above for high-res image gallery

Lamborghini has announced its intentions to build lighter cars, and that means more carbon fiber and carbon composites. The stampeding bull is already deep into the stuff, with the Murcielago replacement (rumored to carry the Jota name) swapping out the Murci's steel frame for one of carbon fiber, and the Gallardo LP 570-4 Superleggera winning The Biggest Loser due to its CF parts.

Getting ready for the long term and knowing it will need to do more than merely hang carbon parts on its wares, Lamborghini has opened an Advanced Composites Research Center in Sant' Agata Bolognese. The 30-strong workforce will develop new processes for designing, shaping and producing parts for the "extremely complex carbon-fiber structures" we hope to see on Lamborghinis of the future. Follow the jump for the full press release on the center.


Gallery: Lamborghini Advanced Composites Research Center


[Source: Lamborghini]

Continue reading Lamborghini announces new carbon fiber research center

Lamborghini announces new carbon fiber research center originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 14 Jul 2010 08:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advanced composites research centerAdvancedCompositesResearchCentercarbon fiberCarbonFiberlamborghini advanced composites research centerLamborghiniAdvancedCompositesResearchCentertechWed, 14 Jul 2010 08:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19551363/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/07/14/lamborghini-announces-new-carbon-fiber-research-center/19551363/article-detail.xml 19551363 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/07/lamborghinicfcenter_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/07/lamborghinicfcenter.jpg <![CDATA[Video: BMW's iDrive gets improved iPod functionality]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/09/video-bmws-idrive-gets-improved-ipod-functionality/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/09/video-bmws-idrive-gets-improved-ipod-functionality/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/09/video-bmws-idrive-gets-improved-ipod-functionality/#commentsFiled under: , ,


BMW's iDrive features for the iPod - Click above to watch video after the jump

One of the next steps to evolve BMW's iDrive into Connected Drive is increasing the communication the car has with peripherals. In this case, work is nearly complete on you being able to control your iPod Touch (and, we're guessing, your iPhone) and all of its applications using the same Apple interface on the car's console screen.

Not only might it make navigation of your music files easier, but it would make any application you download for your iPod Touch immediately usable in your Bimmer. BMW doesn't give much away in terms of how this all comes together, but does say that the feature will be available on BMW's as soon as early 2011. Follow the jump to see the vid.

Continue reading Video: BMW's iDrive gets improved iPod functionality

Video: BMW's iDrive gets improved iPod functionality originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 09 Jul 2010 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>connected driveConnectedDriveidriveiphoneipodipod touchIpodTouchtechFri, 09 Jul 2010 18:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19547236/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/07/09/video-bmws-idrive-gets-improved-ipod-functionality/19547236/article-detail.xml 19547236 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/07/bmwidriveiphone_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/07/bmwidriveiphone.jpg <![CDATA[Michelin Primacy MXM4 uses sunflower oil to make the world better]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/24/michelin-primacy-mxm4-uses-sunflower-oil-to-make-the-world-bette/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/24/michelin-primacy-mxm4-uses-sunflower-oil-to-make-the-world-bette/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/24/michelin-primacy-mxm4-uses-sunflower-oil-to-make-the-world-bette/#commentsFiled under:

The oldest and fiercest tire war is not the one waged for any motorsport victory, but the one that is still trying to win your hearts and wallets. In fact, the latter begets the former. And in a new and changing - and supposedly more caring - world, tire makers are turning to increasingly novel ways to make their tires better and get your attention. Michelin is the latest to catch our eyes with its Primacy MXM4 rubber that uses sunflower oil to help "the tire to maintain its edge in wet and snowy weather and stop up to 19 feet shorter than its competitor."

Called a Luxury Performance Touring All-Season tire, the MXM4 employs Michelin's proprietary Helio Compound+. Get it, "helio?" The sunflower oil helps maintain the rubber's elasticity at low temperatures, which will give you better grip and handling on both wet and wintry roads, as well as shorter braking distances. It also stabilizes the tread block's rigidity, increases mileage and lowers CO2 emissions. It officially goes on sale July 1. In the meantime, we figure Michelin is raiding the bathroom cupboard looking for the next advance in hoops...

[Source: Michelin]

Michelin Primacy MXM4 uses sunflower oil to make the world better originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 24 Jun 2010 07:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>michelinmichelin primacymichelin primacy mxm4MichelinPrimacyMichelinPrimacyMxm4techtiresThu, 24 Jun 2010 07:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19523993/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/06/24/michelin-primacy-mxm4-uses-sunflower-oil-to-make-the-world-bette/19523993/article-detail.xml 19523993 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/06/michelinprimacymxm4_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/06/michelinprimacymxm4.jpg <![CDATA[Skobbler first totally free turn-by-turn navigation app for iPhone]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/05/25/skobbler-first-totally-free-turn-by-turn-navigation-app-for-ipho/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/05/25/skobbler-first-totally-free-turn-by-turn-navigation-app-for-ipho/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/05/25/skobbler-first-totally-free-turn-by-turn-navigation-app-for-ipho/#commentsFiled under: ,



Skobbler has introduced a completely free, turn-by-turn navigation app for the iPhone, with one new and unusual detail: you help play the role of cartographer. Sort of like Linux for thoroughfares, you download the Skobbler app and then use CloudMade, a community-sourced mapping to add "hyperlocal" detail to the map, which Skrobbler then updates on its servers. The more information gets added by community mappers, the more detailed and up-to-date the instructions are available to the nav-app's users, with updates pushed to the program in real-time. We're unsure of how granular the details are in the current CloudMade maps, but the app is free and this could be your chance to be a pioneer.

[Source: Mac Daily News]

Skobbler first totally free turn-by-turn navigation app for iPhone originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 25 May 2010 08:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appapp storeappleAppStorecloudmadeiphoneipod touchIpodTouchitunesnavigationskobblertechTue, 25 May 2010 08:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19486077/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/05/25/skobbler-first-totally-free-turn-by-turn-navigation-app-for-ipho/19486077/article-detail.xml 19486077 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/05/skobbleriphoneapp_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/05/skobbleriphoneapp.jpg <![CDATA[Ford hires U.S. military's virtual soldier as assembly line avatar]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/05/22/ford-hires-virtual-soldier-from-military-as-assembly-line-avatar/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/05/22/ford-hires-virtual-soldier-from-military-as-assembly-line-avatar/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/05/22/ford-hires-virtual-soldier-from-military-as-assembly-line-avatar/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Santos
Santos, Ford's manufacturing avatar - Click above for high-res image gallery

Technology is your friend, but no one said it's always going to be not creepy nice to look at. The fellow there next to the Ford Fiesta is named "Santos." He's a U.S. Department of Defense creation working part-time at Ford as a "computerized avatar." His job? To perform "actions in the virtual world that can allow Ford to improve quality, safety and ergonomics in factories before an assembly line is built."

Translation: Santos and his virtual musculoskeletal structure can test assembly line procedures at The Blue Oval, helping production-line engineers organize stations in a manner that maximizes efficiency and worker comfort. We're just waiting for the day when Santos says, "The most efficient way to do this is... to eliminate the humans." Enjoy the gallery of high-res photos below and the video after the jump - while you still can.


Gallery: Santos, Ford's vitual manufacturing avatar


[Source: Ford]

Continue reading Ford hires U.S. military's virtual soldier as assembly line avatar

Ford hires U.S. military's virtual soldier as assembly line avatar originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 22 May 2010 09:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avatarlaborsantossantoshumantechSat, 22 May 2010 09:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19484514/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/05/22/ford-hires-virtual-soldier-from-military-as-assembly-line-avatar/19484514/article-detail.xml 19484514 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/05/fordsantos_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/05/fordsantos.jpg <![CDATA[Report: Apps coming to future Audi models - but not the way you think]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/05/20/report-apps-coming-to-future-audi-models-but-not-the-way-you/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/05/20/report-apps-coming-to-future-audi-models-but-not-the-way-you/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/05/20/report-apps-coming-to-future-audi-models-but-not-the-way-you/#commentsFiled under: ,



When Audi says it is going to have apps available for download to its cars by the end of the decade, it doesn't mean an app like Bejeweled 2 - it means an app like heated seats. Taking the term "app" back to its more expansive origin in "software application," Audi plans to make cars upgradable after the purchase by allowing owners to download software that would activate hardware already installed in the car.

An evolution of the touchscreen introduced on the latest A8 would provide the user interface. Navigation, chassis, and audio software upgrades are mentioned as other possible uses of instant reconfigurability, but with all that's run on code nowadays we imagine almost every aspect of the car could be touched by the development. Along with making its products more adaptive "learning machines," having equipment pre-installed, even if not activated, would also streamline the build and could save the company money over the long term. It could also open open up an interesting opportunity for aftermarket hacking, but we digress...

[Source: Autocar]

Report: Apps coming to future Audi models - but not the way you think originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 20 May 2010 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>A8appappsAudiaudi a8AudiA8auto hackingAutoHackingcar hackingCarHackingsoftware applicationsSoftwareApplicationstechThu, 20 May 2010 18:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19484341/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/05/20/report-apps-coming-to-future-audi-models-but-not-the-way-you/19484341/article-detail.xml 19484341 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/05/audiappsarrive2_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/05/audiappsarrive2.jpg <![CDATA[Speed launching internet-only Speed2 broadband network this summer]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/05/13/speed-launching-internet-only-speed2-broadband-network-this-summ/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/05/13/speed-launching-internet-only-speed2-broadband-network-this-summ/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/05/13/speed-launching-internet-only-speed2-broadband-network-this-summ/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Speed Network is about to launch broadband Internet channel to complement its broadcast channel, but only for those who subscribe to the network through Time Warner Cable (TWC). You don't, though, need to be a TWC Internet subscriber to get the channel. Among the many offerings will be FIA GT1 and GT3 championships, touring car series' WTCC and BTCC, the FIM Enduro World Championship and programs from SpeedTV's 14-year-old programming library. Follow the jump for the press release; and don't you think it's about time we get more complete motorsports coverage over here, even if you do need to be online to watch... or you were looking for a good reason to buy a Boxee Box...

[Source: SpeedTV]

Continue reading Speed launching internet-only Speed2 broadband network this summer

Speed launching internet-only Speed2 broadband network this summer originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 13 May 2010 09:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>speed2speedtvtechThu, 13 May 2010 09:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19471923/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/05/13/speed-launching-internet-only-speed2-broadband-network-this-summ/19471923/article-detail.xml 19471923 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/05/speed2chan_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/05/speed2chan.jpg <![CDATA[Scosche developing first official iPad dash-mount kit]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/05/03/scosche-developing-first-official-ipad-dash-mount-kit/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/05/03/scosche-developing-first-official-ipad-dash-mount-kit/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/05/03/scosche-developing-first-official-ipad-dash-mount-kit/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Scosche's iKit for in-car iPad installation - Click above to watch video after the jump

Two years ago at the SEMA Show in Las Vegas we were told by a number of car interior designers that iPhone control of in-car infotainment systems was going to be a huge thing in the near future. In the meantime, it looks like iPad installation will be the huge in-car peripheral of the present - in more ways than one.

Scosche has developed a double-din solution called the iKit for installing the new iPad where your stereo used to go. It's not the most elegant setup because it's intended to keep your iPad portable, with a rotating dock at the end of a ball-joint mounted in the dash. But if you just gotta jack your iPad into your car and still have it handy when the ride's over, the iKit could be for you. Follow the jump for Schosche's official demonstration vid of the iKit with all the details.

[Source: Scosche]

Continue reading Scosche developing first official iPad dash-mount kit

Scosche developing first official iPad dash-mount kit originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 03 May 2010 10:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appleapple ipadAppleIpadikitipadscoschescosche ikitScoscheIkittechMon, 03 May 2010 10:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19460873/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/05/03/scosche-developing-first-official-ipad-dash-mount-kit/19460873/article-detail.xml 19460873 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/04/scoscheipadikit_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/04/scoscheipadikit.jpg <![CDATA[Report: Hyundai to introduce stop-start tech in two years]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/21/report-hyundai-to-introduce-stop-start-tech-in-two-years/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/21/report-hyundai-to-introduce-stop-start-tech-in-two-years/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/21/report-hyundai-to-introduce-stop-start-tech-in-two-years/#commentsFiled under: , ,



The Hyundai-Kia train and its full head of steam don't look likely to give out any time soon. To wit, the company has been adding style to its price and fuel frugality, and technology isn't being left out. The Sonata Hybrid is on its way for next year and will boast better mileage than the 35-mpg Elantra Blue, and now the company has announced it will be engineering stop/start ability into much of the H-K model line in America over the next two years.

We won't see those cars until "the next product cycle" in 2012, but when we do, the projections are that it will yield three percent better fuel economy. True, that might only take the Sonata Hybrid up to 38/40 mpg, but who knows how much a gallon of gas will cost by then - we're sure every little bit will count. CO2 reduction should be equally improved.

[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req'd]

Report: Hyundai to introduce stop-start tech in two years originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 21 Apr 2010 08:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 hyundai2012 kia2012Hyundai2012Kiastop startStopStarttechWed, 21 Apr 2010 08:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19446416/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/04/21/report-hyundai-to-introduce-stop-start-tech-in-two-years/19446416/article-detail.xml 19446416 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/04/hyundstop-start_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/04/hyundstop-start.jpg <![CDATA[Report: Japanese automakers developing e-tag system to streamline auto shipments]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/08/report-japanese-automakers-developing-e-tag-system-to-streamlin/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/08/report-japanese-automakers-developing-e-tag-system-to-streamlin/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/08/report-japanese-automakers-developing-e-tag-system-to-streamlin/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Cars might be techno-marvels, but the way cars get from the factory to your driveway, in large part, isn't. Plain old ink and paper, with carbon copies for good measure, still factors into the process - and that means an extra dose of time and (potential) error as well.

Japan's Yomiuri Shimbun says that reduce all of that, Toyota, Nissan and Mitsubishi will begin working with the NYK Line shipping company to develop an e-tag system that will automate the process from factory to dealer. As with the introduction of electronic systems into all sorts of industrial processes, the plan is that with an instantly accessible inventory system, everyone will be able to react more quickly to provide what's needed. Manufacturers will get a better idea of current inventory, and dealers will be better able to resupply.

NYK Line ships 30 percent of new car inventory. Honda, Hyundai, Kia, Hitachi, and Mitsubishi electronics have also shown interest, so assuming the system is developed and completed, it will come online in 2013 and is predicted to become a global standard.

[Source: Yomiuri Shimbun | Image: John-Morgan - C.C. License 2.0]

Report: Japanese automakers developing e-tag system to streamline auto shipments originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 08 Apr 2010 09:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Cargocargo shipCargoShipe-taghitachiMitsubishiNissanNYKnyk lineNykLineRFIDshippingtechToyotaThu, 08 Apr 2010 09:38:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19427456/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/04/08/report-japanese-automakers-developing-e-tag-system-to-streamlin/19427456/article-detail.xml 19427456 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/04/nyk-cc-ship_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/04/nyk-cc-ship.jpg <![CDATA[If they can't be fixed, more visible potholes are better than nothing]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/29/if-they-cant-be-fixed-more-visible-potholes-are-better-than-no/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/29/if-they-cant-be-fixed-more-visible-potholes-are-better-than-no/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/29/if-they-cant-be-fixed-more-visible-potholes-are-better-than-no/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Pothole

Here's the theory: make potholes easier to see, and they'll be easier to avoid. How would it work? Employ a base layer underneath the road in some garish color, and when tarmac divots appear, voila, the things stick out like wounds. Both theories have been suggested by Domenico Diego and Cristina Corradini, students at the Polytechnic University of Milan, while looking for a way to make streets safer.

The duo will test the ideas in the Italian city of Rho this spring - a small-scale trial to examine costs and benefits. If that's successful, the next stage would be figuring out a new process for making road surfaces in order to create a 'skin' on top and a contrasting 'flesh' below. And the stage after that, as far as we're concerned, would be how to keep pothole-laden streets from turning into slalom courses as drivers try not to connect the dots.

[Source: New York Times via Kicking Tires]

If they can't be fixed, more visible potholes are better than nothing originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 29 Mar 2010 07:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>italypolytechnic university of milanPolytechnicUniversityOfMilanpotholesroadstechMon, 29 Mar 2010 07:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19417268/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/03/29/if-they-cant-be-fixed-more-visible-potholes-are-better-than-no/19417268/article-detail.xml 19417268 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/paintedpotholes_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/paintedpotholes.jpg <![CDATA[Roewe 350: The first car to run on Android]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/26/roewe-350-the-first-car-to-run-on-android/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/26/roewe-350-the-first-car-to-run-on-android/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/26/roewe-350-the-first-car-to-run-on-android/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Google and the Chinese government are having a little row right now, but that hasn't stopped China's love for Google goods. The production lines for the Roewe 350 have started rolling out sedans, and the little four-door, designed as a sign of SAIC's automotive futur,e is certainly headed for hundreds of thousands of Chinese homes. In the process, it will employ Google's Android operating system, up until now only seen primarily on mobile phones and a handful of cheap PCs.

Android was developed from Linux, and is a highly customizable OS with a huge range of adaptability. In the Roewe 350, the Android interface running through the DVD system will give occupants web access and even online chatting, in addition to mundane things like real-time traffic. It's a neat choice to make, and with Android's app possibilities it might mean you could share information from car to car and skip the step of reading directions and other information from your phone. And if there's a virus... well, we won't worry about that just yet...

[Source: China Car Times]

Roewe 350: The first car to run on Android originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 26 Mar 2010 17:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>android 2.1Android2.0Android2.1google android cupcakeGoogleAndroidCupcakeGoogleNewsroewe 350Roewe350techFri, 26 Mar 2010 17:39:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19415820/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/03/26/roewe-350-the-first-car-to-run-on-android/19415820/article-detail.xml 19415820 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/roeweandr_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/roeweandr.jpg <![CDATA[Report: GM developing twin-turbo 3.0L V6 to fight EcoBoost]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/24/report-gm-developing-twin-turbo-3-0l-v6-to-fight-ecoboost/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/24/report-gm-developing-twin-turbo-3-0l-v6-to-fight-ecoboost/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/24/report-gm-developing-twin-turbo-3-0l-v6-to-fight-ecoboost/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



These are the days when V6 engines are getting all the love, and the reasons are obvious. Chrysler has finally got its Phoenix Pentastar V6 on, and down under General Motors recently rolled out the facelifted Commodore line with its 3.0-liter SIDI V6. The point is to provide solid power and go easy on the gas, and in the U.S. the V6 that's been making that point very well is Ford's 3.5-liter V6 EcoBoost found in the Flex and Lincoln MKS and MKT.

GM's got its eye on that lump as it prepares a twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6 engine provisionally called LF3, a derivative of the same High Feature LF1 V6 (pictured) in the new Commodore. According to GM Inside News, we should "expect the engine to rival" the EcoBoost. The Ford motor comes in at 350 horsepower and 355 pound-feet of torque, compared to the 3.0-liter SIDI V6 at 270 hp and 213 lb-ft.

Where would this engine appear? Up at this end of the Earth we can probably expect it in the newly confirmed Cadillac XTS (Cadillac worked with Holden to develop the HF1) and perhaps even the Cadillac ATS and the Camaro. Look for it in 2011 or 2012... hopefully.

[Source: GM Inside News]

Report: GM developing twin-turbo 3.0L V6 to fight EcoBoost originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 24 Mar 2010 13:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ecoboostenginegeneral motorsGeneralMotorslf1lf3motortechv6Wed, 24 Mar 2010 13:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19412680/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/03/24/report-gm-developing-twin-turbo-3-0l-v6-to-fight-ecoboost/19412680/article-detail.xml 19412680 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/gmlf3ecobo_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/gmlf3ecobo.jpg -1 2