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[Brick By Brick: James May's Lego house comes down]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/23/brick-by-brick-james-mays-lego-house-comes-down/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/23/brick-by-brick-james-mays-lego-house-comes-down/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/23/brick-by-brick-james-mays-lego-house-comes-down/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Top Gear host James May went to Dorking, England and built a Lego fort house in an orchard with more than three million Lego pieces. Now it's time for him to vacate the premises, and the house has been torn down. Mays had tried to get the structure taken to the Lego park in Windsor, but the cost and logistics were too challenging for the park to accept.

So now it's dismantled, all the way down to its red Lego slippers. With the plastic fantastic house in pieces, all of the bricks will go to charity and "they have all been allocated, so people can't just turn up with a bucket." That means you. Yet we do wonder if that goes for the Lego toilet as well...

[Source: Get Surrey | Image: Huladancer/Flickr/CC]

Brick By Brick: James May's Lego house comes down originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 23 Sep 2009 07:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>captain slowCaptainSlowdorkingenglandjames mayJamesMaylegolego houseLegoHouselegossurreytop gearTopGeartoysukWed, 23 Sep 2009 07:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Steering wheel for the... iPhone?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/10/steering-wheel-for-the-iphone/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/10/steering-wheel-for-the-iphone/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/10/steering-wheel-for-the-iphone/#commentsFiled under:


CTA Digital iPod steering wheel -- Click above to view the video after the jump

If you've been trying to raise your high score on that iPhone or iPod Touch racing game but you just can't get your chi going without a steering wheel, this baby could be for you. Made by CTA Digital, you clip the phone into a holder, clip the holder into the wheel, and channel your Herr Schumacher.

Splurge for the top-of-the-line model and the wheel is attached to a suction cup by an adjustable arm, and you can go past Schumi straight to Kwai Chang Caine -- that's straight up Kung Fu badness. We won't mention how it might make you look, but you're not worried about that, are you? In case you're wondering, though, you can get a glimpse in the video after the jump. Hat tip to James

[Source: cnet]

Continue reading Steering wheel for the... iPhone?

Steering wheel for the... iPhone? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 10 Aug 2009 08:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gamesiphoneipod touchIpodTouchsteering wheelSteeringWheeltoysvideo gamevideo gamesvideogamevideogamesMon, 10 Aug 2009 08:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Gran Turismo PSP adds Lamborghini to the mix]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/06/gran-turismo-psp-adds-lamborghini-to-the-mix/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/06/gran-turismo-psp-adds-lamborghini-to-the-mix/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/06/gran-turismo-psp-adds-lamborghini-to-the-mix/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Exclusive cars for GT5 PSP -- Click above for high-res image gallery

An entirely galaxy could have been birthed in the time it's taking for Gran Turismo 5 to arrive, but at least Sony is trying to make it worth everyone's while when the portable driving sim shows up October 1. If you pre-order Gran Turismo PSP, you'll be able to add one of five cars in select colors, the most special among them being a 1974 Lamborghini Countach LP400 in luscious Arancio (that's orange).

This is the first time Lamborghini has made it to the pixelated world of GT, and the marketing manager promised it won't be the last. The other vehicles available include a Bugatti Veyron in Black M, an Enzo in Giallo (yellow), the GTbyCitroen in a deeper hue of butter, and a GT-R Spec V in metallic blue.

You can still get the cars later even if you don't pre-order, just not in those colors, but in the meantime check them out in the high-res gallery below.Thanks for the tip, Seminole


Gallery: Exclusive Cars for GT5 PSP


[Source: Playstation.com via Joystiq]

Gran Turismo PSP adds Lamborghini to the mix originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 06 Aug 2009 15:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gamesgran turismogran turismo 5gran turismo 5 prologuegran turismo pspGranTurismoGranTurismo5GranTurismo5PrologueGranTurismoPspgt5gt5 pspGt5PsplamborghiniplaystationpsptoysvideogamesThu, 06 Aug 2009 15:29:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: James May to build life-sized Lego house. But what's in the garage?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/27/report-james-may-to-build-life-sized-lego-house-but-whats-in/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/27/report-james-may-to-build-life-sized-lego-house-but-whats-in/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/27/report-james-may-to-build-life-sized-lego-house-but-whats-in/#commentsFiled under: , ,



James May, a.k.a. Captain Slow on Top Gear, has a BBC show called James May's Toy Stories. After building an award-winning Plasticine garden and the world's largest model airplane, the next thing on May's list is a house built of Legos. A two-storey house. And he intends to live in it for a weekend.

The house will be built in Dorking, England and everything that can be made out of Legos will be made out of Lego. Said May, "I've got a man working on a flushing Lego lavatory. We think it's possible." Seeing that Legoland doesn't even have a house made of Lego - and certainly not Lego toilets - this should indeed be a "pioneering Lego cause." So far, three million Lego bricks have been contributed to the build, but May is looking for more in case you have any lying around.

[Source: BBC]

REPORT: James May to build life-sized Lego house. But what's in the garage? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 27 Jul 2009 08:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bbcbuilding blockbuilding blocksBuildingBlockBuildingBlockscelebrityenglandetcjames mayJamesMaylegolegolandlegostop gearTopGeartoytoysukMon, 27 Jul 2009 08:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Spec out your own Maserati - in 1/43 scale]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/19/spec-out-your-own-maserati-in-1-43-scale/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/19/spec-out-your-own-maserati-in-1-43-scale/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/19/spec-out-your-own-maserati-in-1-43-scale/#commentsFiled under: , ,



If you're looking for a Maserati that's easier on your wallet, or a treat for a Maserati lover, then you should check out the Maserati model configurator. Three base models in 1/43 scale are available: Quattroporte, Quattroporte S, and Granturismo S. From there you can choose from among seven exterior and two interior colors, four or five different brake caliper colors, two or three different kinds of rims, and select a sunroof which is made of glass. No, it doesn't open.

You can even select a personalized license plate written in one of four fonts. Naturally, once you're finished, you can buy it. The models are €230 ($320 US), which includes shipping, and are sent within 30 days. If your Maserati doesn't match your expectations, you can return it (good luck doing that with a real car). If you don't want to go all the way then you can just display your modeling prowess in the virtual showroom. Everybody wins.

[Source: Maserati]

Spec out your own Maserati - in 1/43 scale originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 19 Jun 2009 18:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>etcgiftgiftslifestylemaseratimodelmodelstoysFri, 19 Jun 2009 18:32:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Volvo The Game now available for free download]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/26/video-volvo-the-game-now-available-for-free-download/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/26/video-volvo-the-game-now-available-for-free-download/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/26/video-volvo-the-game-now-available-for-free-download/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


Volvo - The Game - Click above for gameplay videos

Starting grids, chicanes, kerbs and locking up the brakes diving into hairpins make you think of what car brand? Of course, Volvo. As promised, Volvo - The Game has been released today for free download for PC only - sorry Mac lovers (a group that probably includes a lot of Volvo owners...). Developed by SimBin, the game offers six Volvo models for turns on two tracks: the Eco Drive Arena in Gothenburg, Sweden and the Chayka track in Kiev, Ukraine.

When you're good enough to p0wn both those tracks and you tire of beating yourself, you can enter the Global Competition and go against Mad Swedish Maxes from around the world. But you better hurry - the first global competition begins today and runs until June 9 on the Eco Arena. The next one goes from June 10 to June 24. First prize for winning the global comp is a set of Pirelli tires up to 18 inches.

You can check out two gameplay videos and a development video after the jump, and download it yourself at the link below.

[Source: Volvo]

Continue reading VIDEO: Volvo The Game now available for free download

VIDEO: Volvo The Game now available for free download originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 26 May 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>concept carsConceptCarslifestylemotorsportstoysvideovolvovolvo gamevolvo s60volvo s60 conceptvolvo s60 gamevolvo s60 rvolvo the gameVolvoGameVolvoS60VolvoS60ConceptVolvoS60GameVolvoTheGameTue, 26 May 2009 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Childhood Redeemed: Lego artist creates jaw-dropping four-wheeled creations]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/25/childhood-redeemed-lego-artist-creates-jaw-dropping-four-wheele/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/25/childhood-redeemed-lego-artist-creates-jaw-dropping-four-wheele/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/25/childhood-redeemed-lego-artist-creates-jaw-dropping-four-wheele/#commentsFiled under: ,


Firas Abu-Jaber's Lego cars - click above for a high-res gallery

This is how you tell the master from the journeyman: Give them a common task, place the same tools in each of their hands, and while journeyman's results will be acceptable, the master's results will be amazing. Firas Abu-Jaber has a way with Legos that certainly qualifies him as a master in the medium when it comes to building cars.

By his own admission, having played with Legos since he started eating cereal, he is now proficient enough with the regular blocks - not the specialized sets - to create all manner of realistic vehicles and interiors. His work speaks for itself, so have a look at the gallery below to see what passion can do with a set of Legos.


Gallery: Abu-Jaber Lego Cars


[Source: MOC Pages (via Jalopnik)]

Childhood Redeemed: Lego artist creates jaw-dropping four-wheeled creations originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 25 May 2009 17:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abu-jabaretclegolegosmodelmodel carsModelCarsmodelstoysMon, 25 May 2009 17:04:00 EST<![CDATA[New SuperCar Challenge for PS3 under development]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/02/new-supercar-challenge-for-ps3-under-development/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/02/new-supercar-challenge-for-ps3-under-development/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/02/new-supercar-challenge-for-ps3-under-development/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above for high-res gallery of SuperCar Challenge screen caps

System 3 has a follow-up title to last year's Ferrari Challenge: SuperCar Challenge. The new game will offer 40 cars to choose from, not all of which are Ferraris this team. The roster will include such cars as the Aston Martin DBR9, Lamborghini Murcielago RGT, McLaren F1, Maserati MC12 and, of course, a supercar or two from Maranello like the Ferrari FXX. You'll be able to race them on 20 real and fictitious tracks and the graphics of each car have been improved with better polygon counts, texture details and buffing. Multiplayer capability can link 16 drivers at once, sim players will get good handling and tuning options, and there'll be an arcade mode for folks who just want to tear up the pavement. The AI has also been redesigned to be more consistent, and there's a "Legendary" AI setting meant to challenge the best drivers.

It will be available exclusively for the PS3 this Spring. While you wait, check out the high-res screenshots below and the video about the game's innovative camera angles by clicking here.

Gallery: SuperCar Challenge


[Source: Gamers Hell]

Continue reading New SuperCar Challenge for PS3 under development

New SuperCar Challenge for PS3 under development originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 02 Mar 2009 08:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gadgetsplaystationplaystation 3playstation3ps3racingtoysvideovideo gamesvideogamesMon, 02 Mar 2009 08:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Mobile microwave takes Mhz and hot food on the go...]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/02/mobile-microwave-takes-mhz-and-hot-food-on-the-go/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/02/mobile-microwave-takes-mhz-and-hot-food-on-the-go/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/02/mobile-microwave-takes-mhz-and-hot-food-on-the-go/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Have you ever been on the road and hungry, and thought "By golly, if I only had a microwave I could heat... anything... and eat it!" Well, neither have we. But that hasn't stopped Maplin Electronics from coming up with a portable, 12-volt microwave that you can operate through your cigarette lighter or hooked up directly to your car battery.

The 14-inch wide, 10-inch high stainless steel heater-upper can crank out 175W when plugged in to the cigarette lighter. When you don't have time for all that slow roasting and need to get your ham cooked quickly, connect the portable microwave to the battery -- terminals included -- and you'll get 660W of fast-cooking power. We can only hope this contraption is an answer to a question no one was asking. However, if you want to be king of the tailgating party, your crown will only cost you £69.98.

[Source: Daily Mail]

Mobile microwave takes Mhz and hot food on the go... originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 02 Jan 2009 16:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accessoriesetcfoodgadgetsmicrowavetoysFri, 02 Jan 2009 16:33:00 EST<![CDATA[We want Limited Edition Dodge Challenger sculptures ]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/09/we-want-limited-edition-dodge-challenger-sculptures/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/09/we-want-limited-edition-dodge-challenger-sculptures/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/09/we-want-limited-edition-dodge-challenger-sculptures/#commentsFiled under: ,


Click above for image gallery of the Bend Rod Garage Challenger sculptures

We've come to that time of year when hear sentences that sound like this: "You wanted X (insert obscenely out-of-reach gift here), but that didn't work out so let us present Y!" And Y is always some little tchotchke that relentlessly reminds you that you don't have the X you want. Well, that's not the case with these Dodge Challenger sculptures, because we want one of them even though we're not in the market for an actual Challenger. The 12-inch resin sculptures made by Bent Rod Garage come in three factory colors, are limited to a run of just 300 units and will only cost you $120 out the door. Check out the gallery of images below, visit Bent Rod Garage for yourself and see if you think there's a better way to say "funky" this holiday season. Thanks for the tip, Tobias!

Gallery: Bent Rod Garage Challenger Series


[Source: Bent Rod Garage via Musclecars]

We want Limited Edition Dodge Challenger sculptures originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 09 Dec 2008 13:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bent rod garageBentRodGaragechristmas giftsChristmasGiftsdodge challengerdodge challenger sculpturesDodgeChallengerDodgeChallengerSculpturesgiftsmodelstoysTue, 09 Dec 2008 13:58:00 EST<![CDATA[$1 Hot Wheels car blinged out to $140,000]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/02/18/1-hot-wheels-car-blinged-out-to-140-000/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/02/18/1-hot-wheels-car-blinged-out-to-140-000/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/02/18/1-hot-wheels-car-blinged-out-to-140-000/#commentsFiled under: ,


click above for more high-res pics

A few years ago, Bruce Pascal paid more than $70,000 for a single Hot Wheels car. The car was an extremely rare rear-loading Beach Bomb with an even more rare pink coat of paint. But it didn't have even a single diamond or ruby, which makes us wonder what Mr. Pascal thinks about this jewel-encrusted toy car commissioned by Mattel to celebrate the 40th anniversary of Hot Wheels.

Jeweler to the stars, Jason of Beverly Hills, transformed this $1 toy into a $140,000 dust-collecting bauble. Almost every surface of the car is covered in some type of precious stone. The car's 18-karat white-gold body shimmers with blue diamonds, the base features white and black diamonds, rubies are set in the car's taillights, and black diamonds were used on the car's tires. Even the tiny interior is jeweled as is the engine. There are 2,700 jewels on the car at a weight of nearly 23-karats.

The car was introduced at the 2008 Toy Fair in New York by Nick Lachey (who's sorry now, Jessica?), who will auction off the toy later this year with the proceeds going to Big Brothers Big Sisters. The lucky (by which we mean having more money than sense) winner will also get a custom-made display box that features 40 more diamonds, one for each year of Hot Wheels production.

Gallery: $140k diamond Hot Wheels 40th Anniversary Car


[Source: Gizmodo, Mattel, Photos by Rob Loud/Getty]

Continue reading $1 Hot Wheels car blinged out to $140,000

$1 Hot Wheels car blinged out to $140,000 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 18 Feb 2008 10:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Hot WheelsHot Wheels 40th AnniversaryHotWheelsHotWheels40thAnniversaryJason of beverly hillsJasonOfBeverlyHillsmost expensive Hot WheelsMostExpensiveHotWheelsNick LacheyNick Lachey automobilesNick Lachey carsNick Lachey hot wheelsNickLacheyNickLacheyAutomobilesNickLacheyCarsNickLacheyHotWheelstoy carToyCartoysvaluable toy carValuableToyCarMon, 18 Feb 2008 10:37:00 EST<![CDATA[Become a car designer, just $19.99!]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/11/27/become-a-car-designer-just-19-99/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/11/27/become-a-car-designer-just-19-99/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/11/27/become-a-car-designer-just-19-99/#commentsFiled under: , ,



From time to time we've all been tempted to purchase that fake diploma from the endlessly circulating email, right? The last time I checked, though, they weren't offering fake certificates from the Art Center College of Design, or the Academy of Art University. If you still held onto the dream of someday shaping cars, even after all your sketch pads had been confiscated, the normal path was that you'd go to an institution where you could learn industrial design through a rigorous academic program. That's the reason why those of us who continue to doodle four wheeled conveyances are reduced to sketching while on boring phone calls; to truly design real cars takes years of practice, hard work, and skill. Alternatively, you could drop a measly 20 bucks and start computerating up some fun looking vehicles with Topics Entertainment's Sports Car Designer software.

In the end, it's still no replacement for learning to render a form on paper with perspective, shading and foreshortening; all those things that take years to develop skill with. From what we can see, you're limited to a profile view, but the options for body shape creation are wide ranging enough that you can whip up some interesting forms. We're not seeing a tremendous amount of variety or originality in the screenshots at the support website sportscardesigner.com, but for $20 at Best Buy what do you want, Cinema 4D? When you're done with your masterpiece of the moment, you can export it as a .jpg, or you can spit CAD data out so that another program might be able to stitch the entire car together for you in 3-D space. It's a fun way to divert some hours, and hey, it'll keep that eternally fidgeting car-crazy pre-teen quiet for the vast span of 15 minutes, at least.

Thanks for the tip, Larry!

Become a car designer, just $19.99! originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 27 Nov 2007 13:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>best buyBestBuybodybody designBodyDesigncarcar designCarDesigndesignetcsoftwaresportssports carsports car designerSportsCarSportsCarDesignerstylingtoysTue, 27 Nov 2007 13:35:00 EST<![CDATA[All we want for Christmas is a Ford GT]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/10/27/a-ford-gt-for-the-masses/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/10/27/a-ford-gt-for-the-masses/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/10/27/a-ford-gt-for-the-masses/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



The Ford GT has always been badass. When it went into production in 2003, all of those kit cars from back in the day suddenly paled in comparison to a genuine GT40-inspired supercar. It was a relative bargain, too. Of course, when we say relative bargain, we mean expensive. Always willing to settle, we've found a way to claim with a straight face that we own a GT. It's still not cheap, but it's hundreds, not hundreds of thousands. Winding Road has pointed us to the 1:6 scale remote control Ford GT over at wowzzers.com. Equipped with a 23cc engine, this three-plus foot long vehicle can buzz around at a maximum speed around 60 mph. Christmas is coming, and it's only $650.

[Source: Winding Road]

All we want for Christmas is a Ford GT originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 27 Oct 2007 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>controlfordford gtford gt 40FordGtFordGt40gtgt 40Gt40remoteremote controlRemoteControlscale modelScaleModeltoysSat, 27 Oct 2007 11:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Takara's palm-sized R/C... Crossovers?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/08/03/takaras-palm-sized-r-c-crossovers/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/08/03/takaras-palm-sized-r-c-crossovers/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/08/03/takaras-palm-sized-r-c-crossovers/#commentsFiled under: ,


Click image for photo gallery

Ok, they're not all crossovers -- one of them's a Prius, the Corolla Fielder's a wagon, and the Honda Stream's an MPV -- but Takara Tomy's new CAUL R/C lineup is still CUV-heavy. The nicely-detailed palm-sized R/C cars cost just ¥600 in Japan (a little over $5 at current exchange rates), and while that low price makes them very appealing as kids' toys, the company expects to sell a lot of them to male R/C aficionados between the ages of 20 and 30. The budget-friendly price point also encourages collecting, which is, of course, good for Takara Tomy, which plans to release a total of 28 different models. Incidentally, CAUL seems to be an acronym for Car Action Units Line. Yeah, we don't quite get it either.

The initial 7 cars offered are:
  • Honda Crossroad
  • Honda Stream
  • Toyota Corolla Fielder
  • Toyota Harrier
  • Nissan Murano
  • Nissan Dualis
  • Toyota Prius
[Source: Takara Tomy via Carview]

Gallery: Takara Tomy CAUL R/C Cars

Takara's palm-sized R/C... Crossovers? originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 03 Aug 2007 21:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>600 yen600Yencaulr/ctakaratomytoysFri, 03 Aug 2007 21:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Ridemakerz coming to a mall near you]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/31/ridemakerz-coming-to-a-mall-near-you/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/31/ridemakerz-coming-to-a-mall-near-you/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/31/ridemakerz-coming-to-a-mall-near-you/#commentsFiled under: ,



Great, another retail establishment that can't spell. Here's a tip: "Z" does not equal "S." Using Z to pluralize words will also not make you hip or cool. Rather, it will point out that it's an obvious stab at being cool, without actually attaining coolness. Alphabet abuse aside, the concept of RideMakerz is cool. From the soft, cuddly folks at Build-A-Bear Workshop (and Chip Foose, natch) comes a less fluffy, more greasy idea. Those of us who spent hours inhaling Testor's model glue fumes finally have a mall refuge for our car-freak offspring. Kids can pick the type of vehicle they want to build, trick it out with accessories (pardon us, accessoriez), add decals, and even customize the license plate and add remote control capabilities, depending on Mom and Dad's available credit. The first store opens in Myrtle Beach this week, and the Mall Of America is going to get one soon, too. If they make you kiss the engine, turn around three times and recite some incantation, just watch out for the fan blades.

[Source: RideMakerz via Jalopnik]

Ridemakerz coming to a mall near you originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 31 May 2007 10:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>build a bearBuildABearchildrenchip fooseChipFooseetcgadgetskidsmallridezshoppingtoysThu, 31 May 2007 10:37:00 EST<![CDATA[Watch the Transformers toys transform]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/21/watch-the-transformers-toys-transform/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/21/watch-the-transformers-toys-transform/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/21/watch-the-transformers-toys-transform/#commentsFiled under:



It's one thing to design a Transformer in CGI and have it magically transform from a car to a 40-foot-tall robot in 24 frames of animation. It's entirely different to produce a toy that actually does transform with moving parts that have to work together in total harmony. HASBRO is in charge of producing the full gamet of Transformers toys this time around and has a website up that shows us exactly how Optimus Prime will go from big rig to big robot. Click here, skip the intro and, unless you have a pair of cardboard 3D glasses handy, click on the 2D link. Here you'll find animations that show how Optimus Prime, Scorponok, Ratchet and Ironhide will actually transform when pulled from their plastic packaging.

The site also has 360 degree views of each Transformer toy, as well as some extra items like a wearable Optimus Prime helmet. Our search for a Halloween costume this year is officially over.

[Source: 3Dtransformers.com via tfw2005]

Gallery: Transformers Movie Pics

Watch the Transformers toys transform originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 21 May 2007 15:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>HASBROMichael BayMichaelBaytoysTransformersMon, 21 May 2007 15:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Hot Wheels offers limited edition Camaro and Challenger]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/17/hot-wheels-offers-limited-edition-camaro-and-challenger/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/17/hot-wheels-offers-limited-edition-camaro-and-challenger/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/17/hot-wheels-offers-limited-edition-camaro-and-challenger/#commentsFiled under: ,




At the very least we're about one year away from seeing the production version of the Dodge Challenger, probably longer for the Chevy Camaro. We can't wait that long, and we're guessing neither can you. Hot Wheels has come to the rescue with two pairs of limited edition miniature motors.

Beginning Tuesday morning at 9 AM PST, Hot Wheel Collector's Club members (membership is free) can buy the Real Riders Chevy Camaro and the Real Riders Dodge Challenger sets. The Camaro set has the iconic 1967 and 2006 concept versions of Chevy's pony car, and for the MOPAR fans, the Challenger set comes with a 1970 and 2006 concept versions. All four cars are much more detailed than any Hot Wheel car you'll find in stores, and feature rubber tires on special chrome wheels and a metal base. Each pack is limited to only 12,000 copies and at $9.99 each, are likely to sell out very quickly.

Check the jump for photos of the Challenger cars then go to the HWC website for even more photos of both.

Continue reading Hot Wheels offers limited edition Camaro and Challenger

Hot Wheels offers limited edition Camaro and Challenger originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 17 Feb 2007 11:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Around our office, we're always passing small files between the multiple workstations via USB flash drives. Chinese toymaker Marsilli has come up with a fun way for us to amuse ourselves as we pass files back and forth. Their 512MB flash drive that doubles as an RC car comes with its own race track, though the first thing we'd try is zooming these little buggers around from room to room. They're controllable with your cellphone, though we're not sure if it's via Bluetooth or some other scheme. The USB port jutting out the back of the New Beetle is also just about the correct scale to match some of the inane drainage-pipe exhausts we've seen on clapped out rides around town, too. It's too bad we don't have an office pet, as we bet these zoomy little cars would do great on smooth surfaces and drive cats and dogs absolutely bonkers. We know we'd giggle like schoolgirls for a good half hour, maybe more. We're not sure where to find these in the US just yet, but we haven't looked terribly hard, either. We've been avoiding actually finding them because they're just what we need, more excuses to be unproductive while we hold out for that dream job of GranTurismo beta tester.

[Source: engadget.com]

Wacky USB remote-controlled car provides minutes of fun originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 23 Jan 2007 19:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bluetoothcarcontroldriveflashmarsilliremoteremote controlremote control carRemoteControlRemoteControlCartoysusbusb flash drive remote control carUsbFlashDriveRemoteControlCarTue, 23 Jan 2007 19:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Hong Kong company revives Mustang II, Pacer]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/01/16/hong-kong-company-revives-mustang-ii-pacer/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/01/16/hong-kong-company-revives-mustang-ii-pacer/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/01/16/hong-kong-company-revives-mustang-ii-pacer/#commentsFiled under:



And the Gremlin and the Pinto. Yeah, all scale models, but didn't your jaw drop just a little after reading the headline? Mine did after spotting these at a major discount retailer's toy department last week. Available in 1:60, 1:24 and as a remote control 1:16 scale, these bad-rep rods of the 70s are part of the Fresh Cherries lineup from Motormax.

Surrounded by other, more respectable models like a Bugatti Veyron, the 2006 Camaro Concept, and a Ferrari F40, the 1:60-sized Gremlin on my work desk has sparked many conversations. The kitsch factor of these small mechanical monsters goes to 11. At less than $4 for the smallest versions, you can afford to have your very own ignoble garage, or recreate an 80s-era used car lot. For even more realism, set the Pinto on fire, and leave the Mustang II next to the Gremlin in the yard to build up some nice rust. We imagine the remote control Mustang II might cost more than a 1:1 scale version, though it would probably hold its value better.

We can't wait for the next round. What should be on that list? Hmm. Vega, Citation, maybe a Le Car.

Check the jump for a larger promotional photo from Motormax.

Continue reading Hong Kong company revives Mustang II, Pacer

Hong Kong company revives Mustang II, Pacer originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 16 Jan 2007 16:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AMC GremlinAMC PacerAmcGremlinAmcPacerautomotive toysAutomotiveToyscar toysCarToysChevrolet VegaChevroletVegaFord Mustang IIFord PintoFordMustangIiFordPintoGremlinMustangMustang IIMustangIiPacertoysTue, 16 Jan 2007 16:11:00 EST<![CDATA[The Autoblog After Christmas Sweepstakes #3: Win a Power Wheels Jeep Hurricane!]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/12/28/the-autoblog-after-christmas-sweepstakes-3-win-a-power-wheels/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/12/28/the-autoblog-after-christmas-sweepstakes-3-win-a-power-wheels/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/12/28/the-autoblog-after-christmas-sweepstakes-3-win-a-power-wheels/#commentsFiled under:



Congratulations to Alix, whose comment was plucked from obscurity among the 188 left on our last post. Alix will receive a complete set of Automoblox toys that includes seven vehicles, an expansion block set and a t-shirt. But now it's time to focus our efforts on the grand prize of the Autoblog After Christmas Sweepstakes: a Power Wheels Jeep Hurricane! We posted on the Power Wheels Jeep Hurricane a while back because we were in awe over the advancements made in kiddie-sized, battery-powered transportation since we were kids, and a Power Wheels vehicle has long been the one gift that we always wanted under our tree but never got. The Power Wheels Jeep Hurricane features Ultimate Terrain Traction to tackle wet grass with aplomb, a real FM radio, and cup holders! Thanks go out to Fisher Price and Power Wheels for supplying this great prize.

Entering to win the Power Wheels Jeep Hurricane is as easy as the last two sweepstakes in our series. Just leave a comment on this post telling us what's the one gift you always wanted for Christmas but never got. In other words, how has Santa snubbed you? We'll randomly select a comment from the list tomorrow at 3PM and announce the winner. Hopefully one lucky person will have all their childhood issues of neglect repaired in one fell swoop when this Power Wheels Jeep Hurricane arrives at the door. Good luck everyone!

Some quick basic rules:
  • You can enter each of the three drawings once, but you can only win one prize
  • You must be 18 years old to enter
  • Winners must be a resident of the continental U.S. (we're working on broadening our reach for future sweepstakes, giveaways and contests)
  • Prizes will be shipped after all drawings are completed.
Check out the official rules here.

The Autoblog After Christmas Sweepstakes #3: Win a Power Wheels Jeep Hurricane! originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 28 Dec 2006 15:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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