Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Ford F-150 EcoBoost hits 100,000 sales]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/26/ford-f-150-ecoboost-hits-100-000-sales/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/26/ford-f-150-ecoboost-hits-100-000-sales/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/26/ford-f-150-ecoboost-hits-100-000-sales/#commentsFiled under: , ,

ecoboost f-150

Ford bet big on the combination of light duty pickup trucks and boosted V6 power, and it appears the gamble has paid off. The Detroit News reports that Ford has already reached 100,000 F-150 sales in 2011, just as the automaker promised it would.

Overall EcoBoost models accounted for 40 percent of all F-150 sales, which is impressive considering that the boosted mill comes with a $895 price premium compared to the very capable 5.0-liter V8. Still more impressive is the fact that Ford also sold plenty of 3.7-liter V6 models as well, and the overall take rate of V6 engines is over 50 percent on the year. Ford hasn't sold this many six-cylinder F-150 models since Doc Brown turned a DeLorean into a time machine (1985).

With V6-powered F-150 models selling this well, we're expecting General Motors and Chrysler to follow suit with their own six-cylinder offerings. It seems truck buyers would be more than okay with the decision.

Ford F-150 EcoBoost hits 100,000 sales originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 26 Dec 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>100000 sales2011ecoboostecoboost v6f-150fordpickuptruckv6Mon, 26 Dec 2011 18:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20134715/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/26/ford-f-150-ecoboost-hits-100-000-sales/20134715/article-detail.xml 20134715 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/2011-ford-f-150-ecoboost-fx2-red_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/2011-ford-f-150-ecoboost-fx2-red.jpg <![CDATA[Mercedes creates "aero trailer" concept to improve big rig fuel efficiency]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/28/mercedes-creates-aero-trailer-concept-to-improve-big-rig-fuel/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/28/mercedes-creates-aero-trailer-concept-to-improve-big-rig-fuel/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/28/mercedes-creates-aero-trailer-concept-to-improve-big-rig-fuel/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Every time you drive by a semi and feel your car get pushed away from the rig, it reinforces the reality that tractor trailers punch a big, ragged hole in the atmosphere. It takes a lot of power to force those big boxes through the wind, and Mercedes Benz is working to please both fleet operators and the environmentally conscious by taking some of these heavy haulers for a spin in the wind tunnel for a much-needed aerodynamic tuneup.

The result is a trailer that features a front airdam, side trim panels rear diffuser, and a tapered rear design that adds up to an 18 percent reduction in wind resistance when paired with the Mercedes Actros tractor. Mercedes projects that a truck averaging 150,000 kilometers per year (93,205 miles) will save 2000 liters of diesel (528 gallons) while releasing five fewer tons of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.

The wind-cheating changes leave the cargo box completely unaffected, though the aero trailer is going to need special legislative dispensation to allow its extra length on the road. The tail extension makes the trailer a half-meter too long than the current law allows, though other specialty trailers, like those with forklifts, have been given such consideration, paving the way for the more-efficient Mercedes trailers. See the full press release after the jump.

Continue reading Mercedes creates "aero trailer" concept to improve big rig fuel efficiency

Mercedes creates "aero trailer" concept to improve big rig fuel efficiency originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 28 Nov 2011 08:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>actrosmercedes-benztrailertruckMon, 28 Nov 2011 08:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20114766/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/28/mercedes-creates-aero-trailer-concept-to-improve-big-rig-fuel/20114766/article-detail.xml 20114766 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/mercedes-aero-trailer-3-1322451656_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/mercedes-aero-trailer-3-1322451656.jpg <![CDATA[How to use a motorcycle to close a pickup tailgate]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/13/how-to-use-a-motorcycle-to-close-a-pickup-tailgate/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/13/how-to-use-a-motorcycle-to-close-a-pickup-tailgate/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/13/how-to-use-a-motorcycle-to-close-a-pickup-tailgate/#commentsFiled under: ,

pickup truck tailgate stunt

When we need to open or close a pickup truck tailgate, we usually just use our hands. Makes sense, right? Of course it does, but apparently there are some who feel that it's not a big enough challenge.

Hit the jump to see how to close an F-150 tailgate using only a street bike and a little skill. We're pretty sure this isn't a good idea, but then again we aren't this talented on two wheels. The video is only 12 seconds long, but it's definitely worth a look.

Continue reading How to use a motorcycle to close a pickup tailgate

How to use a motorcycle to close a pickup tailgate originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 13 Nov 2011 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f-150motorcyclestunttailgatetruckSun, 13 Nov 2011 10:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20103954/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/13/how-to-use-a-motorcycle-to-close-a-pickup-tailgate/20103954/article-detail.xml 20103954 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/truck-bike_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/truck-bike.jpg <![CDATA[Scion considering Daihatsu-based pickup for US?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/10/scion-considering-daihatsu-based-pickup-for-u-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/10/scion-considering-daihatsu-based-pickup-for-u-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/10/scion-considering-daihatsu-based-pickup-for-u-s/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Scion Badge

The mini-truck is dead. Long live the mini-truck!

We aren't alone in our love for compact cargo haulers. AutoGuide recently took the time to sit down with Jack Hollis, the vice president of Scion, who apparently shares our affinity for the smallest of pickups. While Hollis didn't go so far as to say that a Scion pickup was first on his list of things to do, he did mention that he's very interested in the idea and that a lot of Scion customers are, as well.

Don't think that means we'll see Scion-badged Toyota Tacoma models roaming the wastes anytime soon, though. Hollis says that in an ideal world, Scion would partner up with Daihatsu to create an entirely new vehicle in a similar fashion as what Scion cooked up with Subaru for the FR-S. Dragging one of the Toyota subsidiary's current products through the federalization gauntlet would cost more than the effort would be worth, Hollis says.

We won't exactly hold our breath for the model to arrive anytime soon, but we're still thrilled to hear that the upper ranks of at least one automaker is giving the mini-truck segment serious consideration.

Scion considering Daihatsu-based pickup for US? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 10 Nov 2011 08:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>daihatsumini truckscionscion mini truckscion pickuptruckThu, 10 Nov 2011 08:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20102673/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/10/scion-considering-daihatsu-based-pickup-for-u-s/20102673/article-detail.xml 20102673 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/scion-badge-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/scion-badge-628.jpg <![CDATA[Ram Special Services Police Truck gives the Five-O a 5.7]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/08/ram-special-services-police-truck-gives-the-five-o-a-5-7/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/08/ram-special-services-police-truck-gives-the-five-o-a-5-7/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/08/ram-special-services-police-truck-gives-the-five-o-a-5-7/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Ram Special Services Police Truck

Law enforcement agencies may now sink their teeth into a specially prepared version of the Ram pickup truck. The Special Services Police Truck is built to take the abuse that only police officers can throw at a vehicle with additional door supports to handle the weight of optional ballistic protection, a 220-amp alternator for added electronic gadgetry and a 390-horsepower 5.7-liter V8 engine.

Each truck is built with a unique wiring harness specifically engineered to endure the heavy loads of the radar, computer, lighting and radio equipment officers need in the field. Speaking of fields, this is one pursuit vehicle that can chase you anywhere you run thanks to the presence of a four-wheel-drive system.

Ram isn't saying how much the Special Services Police Truck will cost municipalities or whether or not regular-Joe buyers can tick the right boxes and get their own service truck. We do know that with 407 pound-feet of torque on tap and a 3.92 axle ratio, this vehicle will be plenty quick off of the line when it comes time to give unruly motorists a stern talking to. Hit the jump for the press release.

Continue reading Ram Special Services Police Truck gives the Five-O a 5.7

Ram Special Services Police Truck gives the Five-O a 5.7 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Nov 2011 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1500law enforcementpolicepolice carpolice carspolice truckramram 1500ram police truckram special services police trucktruckTue, 08 Nov 2011 00:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20100819/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/08/ram-special-services-police-truck-gives-the-five-o-a-5-7/20100819/article-detail.xml 20100819 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/01-ram-police-truck-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/01-ram-police-truck-628.jpg <![CDATA[Resourceful thief lifts Jeep from dealer using crane]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/20/resourceful-thief-lifts-jeep-from-dealer-using-crane/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/20/resourceful-thief-lifts-jeep-from-dealer-using-crane/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/20/resourceful-thief-lifts-jeep-from-dealer-using-crane/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Security camera screen capture

A car thief in La Porte, Indiana recently put his own spin on the old smash-and-grab routine. The enterprising individual drove a flatbed truck that would typically be used for logging onto a car lot after hours on Sunday, October 16. Our man hopped out and used a giant crane to hook a 2008 Jeep Wrangler through the roof and drop it onto the bed. The whole operation took less than six minutes, though the crime's brevity didn't stop police from tracking down a suspect fairly quickly. Officials arrested a suspect in connection with the theft on Wednesday, October 19.

The Wrangler had a snow plow attached, and Matt Magnuson, general manager at La Porte Chrysler, said that the vehicle had sold that Saturday for $25,000. Magnuson also said that in all of his years selling vehicles, he had never seen anything quite like the stunt pulled off on his lot. Hit the jump to check out the video of the theft for yourself.

Continue reading Resourceful thief lifts Jeep from dealer using crane

Resourceful thief lifts Jeep from dealer using crane originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 20 Oct 2011 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>car theftcar thiefcranegrand theft autola porte chryslertheftthieftruckThu, 20 Oct 2011 14:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20086399/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/20/resourceful-thief-lifts-jeep-from-dealer-using-crane/20086399/article-detail.xml 20086399 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/la-porte-chrysler-theft_thumbnail.gif http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/la-porte-chrysler-theft.gif <![CDATA[Car-on-truck crashes less deadly]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/28/car-on-truck-crashes-less-deadly/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/28/car-on-truck-crashes-less-deadly/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/28/car-on-truck-crashes-less-deadly/#commentsFiled under: , ,

IIHS SUV Crash

According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, today's pickup trucks and SUVs pose less of a threat to drivers in cars and minivans than they did in the past. For the first time in recent memory, trucks and SUVs aren't more likely to be involved in crashes that involve fatalities than cars and minivans of the same weight. Between 2000 and 2001, trucks and SUVs weighing between 3,000 and 3,499 pounds were involved in accidents with cars and minivans that resulted in a traffic fatality at a rate of 44 deaths per million registered vehicles.

IIHS says that number has fallen to 16 deaths per million registered vehicles between 2008 and 2009. The research institute says that the decline is largely attributable to better crash protection in cars and minivans thanks to the addition of side-curtain airbags and more advanced crash structure, but the fact that modern SUVs and trucks now use front ends designed to better align with those crash structures plays a large role as well. Hit the jump to view the full press release.

Continue reading Car-on-truck crashes less deadly

Car-on-truck crashes less deadly originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 28 Sep 2011 19:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>iihsInsurance Institute for Highway Safetysuvsuv crashestruckWed, 28 Sep 2011 19:26:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20068813/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/28/car-on-truck-crashes-less-deadly/20068813/article-detail.xml 20068813 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/suv-crash-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/suv-crash-628.jpg <![CDATA[GM design gives a sneak peek into birth of Holden Colorado pickup concept]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/08/gm-design-gives-a-sneak-peek-into-birth-of-holden-colorado-picku/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/08/gm-design-gives-a-sneak-peek-into-birth-of-holden-colorado-picku/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/08/gm-design-gives-a-sneak-peek-into-birth-of-holden-colorado-picku/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

holden colorado show car
Holden Colorado - Click above to watch the video after the jump

The next generation Chevrolet Colorado hasn't been announced for the U.S. just yet (and we're not holding out much hope for its arrival, either), but the sharp-looking truck will be heading to Thailand later this year. In fact, the overhauled pickup, which will reportedly feature a 2.8-liter diesel at launch, will likely make its way into several markets around the world, including Australia. The only real difference is that the Chevrolet Bowtie will be replaced with Holden badging.

Beyond the jump is a four-minute video that shows how the Colorado went from design to show truck. It's always interesting to see all that goes into designing a new vehicle, and this video includes all computerized design, clay modeling and last-minute detailing you'll ever need to see. Hit the jump to watch the video for yourself.

Continue reading GM design gives a sneak peek into birth of Holden Colorado pickup concept

GM design gives a sneak peek into birth of Holden Colorado pickup concept originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 08 Jul 2011 12:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2.8-liter dieselaustraliachevroletcoloradoholdenholden coloradoholden pickuptruckFri, 08 Jul 2011 12:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19984841/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/07/08/gm-design-gives-a-sneak-peek-into-birth-of-holden-colorado-picku/19984841/article-detail.xml 19984841 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/holden-colorado_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/holden-colorado.jpg <![CDATA[What would a BMW X5 pickup look like?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/05/what-would-a-bmw-x5-pickup-look-like/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/05/what-would-a-bmw-x5-pickup-look-like/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/05/what-would-a-bmw-x5-pickup-look-like/#commentsFiled under: , ,

bmw x5 pickup truck

There are no pickup trucks in the BMW lineup, save for one very special M3. But, dare we ask, what would a real Bimmer truck look like? Automotive manipulator Theophilus Chin was curious, so he fired up his favorite photo editing software and created the beast you see here. Behold, the X5 GranLastwagen.

According to Google Translate, "lastwagen" is German for "truck," and we assume the "Gran" was added simply because it's, well, grand. That, or because it still retains the X5's luxurious five-passenger interior. Want to take in this curious creation from other angles? You can see more of the BMW X5 pickup at Chin's website.

What would a BMW X5 pickup look like? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 05 Jul 2011 19:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwpickuptruckx5Tue, 05 Jul 2011 19:26:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19983733/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/07/05/what-would-a-bmw-x5-pickup-look-like/19983733/article-detail.xml 19983733 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/bmw-x5-truck_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/bmw-x5-truck.jpg <![CDATA[Coral Gables to issue tickets to pickup owners who park in their own driveways overnight]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/15/coral-gables-to-issue-tickets-to-pickup-owners-who-park-in-their/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/15/coral-gables-to-issue-tickets-to-pickup-owners-who-park-in-their/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/15/coral-gables-to-issue-tickets-to-pickup-owners-who-park-in-their/#commentsFiled under: ,

2011 ford f-150
Truck ownership in Coral Gables, Florida just got a bit more expensive. According to the Miami Herald, the city is ready to start enforcing a rule that's been on the books since the '60s. Truck owners are not allowed to park their pickups on city streets between 7pm and 7am. The rule doesn't stop at the street, however, because truck owners also aren't allowed to park their vehicles in their own driveways.

The town is currently handing out warning notices to offending truck owners. Beginning August 9th, parking enforcement will start handing out real fines. The first offense will cost you $100, but after that the fine can climb to $500. We would poll you and ask if you think this is outrageous, but we're pretty sure we're mostly in agreement on this one.

Coral Gables to issue tickets to pickup owners who park in their own driveways overnight originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 15 Jun 2011 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>coral gablescoral gables parking enforcementcoral gables truck parkingfloridaparking finespickup truckstrucktruck parkingWed, 15 Jun 2011 17:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19968074/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/06/15/coral-gables-to-issue-tickets-to-pickup-owners-who-park-in-their/19968074/article-detail.xml 19968074 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/03-2011-ford-f-150-supercrew-review-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/03-2011-ford-f-150-supercrew-review-opt.jpg <![CDATA[2011 Ford F-150 Harley-Davidson [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/04/2011-ford-f-150-harley-davidson-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/04/2011-ford-f-150-harley-davidson-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/04/2011-ford-f-150-harley-davidson-w-video/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Wooing With Big Power, Questionable Bling

2011 Ford F-150 Harley-Davidson
2011 Ford F-150 Harley-Davidson - Click above for high-res image gallery

It was fun to own a truck for a while, but fuel prices and a global recession eventually caught up to the recreational truck owner. Sales of the Ford F-Series came in at 413,000 units in 2009, while 2010 improved to 528,000. Combined that adds up to roughly the same amount of trucks Ford sold in '05 alone. Does the precipitous drop in truck sales mean that high-dollar pickups of the past are on the outs? Not even close.

The F-150 lineup now features Lariat, Platinum, King Ranch and particularly awesome Raptor variants, each with their own hefty price tag. The Raptor is an off-roading beast of epic proportions, while the Lariat, Platinum and King Ranch offer plush accommodations and equipment that are matched by great looks and supreme capability. And if none of those options appeal to the $50,000 truck buyer, Ford continues to offer the F-150 Harley-Davidson edition.

For 2011, Ford's brand-borrowing super truck now boasts more power, new looks and an even fancier (for better or worse) cabin. We took the reins of a fully loaded Harley-Davidson-branded F-150 to see if this pricey pickup has the right mix of luxury and performance to bring back the low impact luxury truck owner. Continue reading...

Continue reading 2011 Ford F-150 Harley-Davidson [w/video]

2011 Ford F-150 Harley-Davidson [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 04 May 2011 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 ford f-150 harley-davidson editionautoblogf-150f-seriesfeaturedfordford f-150 harley-davidsonharleyharley-davidsonreviewreviewstruckWed, 04 May 2011 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19928883/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/05/04/2011-ford-f-150-harley-davidson-w-video/19928883/article-detail.xml 19928883 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/2011-ford-f-150-harley-davidson-carousel1_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/2011-ford-f-150-harley-davidson-carousel1.jpg <![CDATA[Ford Ranger Wildtrak making global debut in Geneva]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/28/ford-ranger-wildtrak-making-global-debut-in-geneva/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/28/ford-ranger-wildtrak-making-global-debut-in-geneva/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/28/ford-ranger-wildtrak-making-global-debut-in-geneva/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2011 ford ranger
2011 Ford Ranger Wildtrak - Click above for high-res image gallery

Ford is bringing its grown-up Ranger to the 2011 Geneva Motor Show. Making its world debut is the Ranger Wildtrak, Ford's top-of-the-range pickup packed with premium tech features. The full list of toys has not yet been released but Ford has announced that the Wildtrak boasts voice recognition and a rear-view camera in addition to satellite navigation and Bluetooth connectivity.

More important than its interior gadgets, the Ford Ranger Wildtrak is designed to be a tough vehicle when the road disappears. It's capable of wading through water up to 31.5-inches deep and has just over nine inches of ground clearance. Under the hood, the Ranger can be fitted with a 2.2-liter four-cylinder Duratorq engine with 277 pound-feet of torque, or a larger 3.2-liter five-cylinder that churns out 347 lb-ft.

Beyond its interior gewgaws, the Wildtrak is differentiated by different exterior color splits and graphics, along with features like a a standard roof rack and 'sports hoop' (read: faux roll bar) and 18-inch wheels.

As you likely already know, the new Ford Ranger will not be offered for sale here in the United States. If you must have one, book a ticket to London because it goes on sale in Britain this November.


Gallery: 2011 Ford Ranger


[Source: Ford]

Continue reading Ford Ranger Wildtrak making global debut in Geneva

Ford Ranger Wildtrak making global debut in Geneva originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 28 Feb 2011 13:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 ford ranger wildtrakfordford rangerford ranger wildtrakgenevageneva 2011geneva motor showpickuprangerranger wildtraktruckwildtrakMon, 28 Feb 2011 13:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19861819/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/02/28/ford-ranger-wildtrak-making-global-debut-in-geneva/19861819/article-detail.xml 19861819 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/02/lede-new-ranger-wildtrak-rear-view_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/02/lede-new-ranger-wildtrak-rear-view.jpg <![CDATA[Video: This is <i>not</i> how you make a Ferrari F150]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/31/video-this-is-not-how-you-make-a-ferrari-f150/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/31/video-this-is-not-how-you-make-a-ferrari-f150/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/31/video-this-is-not-how-you-make-a-ferrari-f150/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Ferrari 458 crashes into Ford F-150
Ferrari 458 seeks tough truck for rough play - Click above to watch video after the jump

The new Ferrari F150 is a single-seat Formula One racecar that will be the object of affection for millions of Tifosi around the globe. One Florida fan of the Italian automaker recently purchased a brand-new 2011 458 Italia. He wasn't planning on turning his into an F150, but he did turn into an F-150... a Ford F-150.

The accident happened in Brandon, Florida, when the Ferrari driver allegedly decided that the yellow paint on the ground didn't apply to him (investigation still pending...). When he went to pass another car, he found a Ford pickup heading straight for his front bumper. The F-150 didn't stop at the low-lying nose and ended up with its left-front tire on the hood of the 458. Fortunately, it appears that no serious injuries resulted.

If you want to see the aftermath of a failed attempt at Ferrari F150 construction, all you have to do is click past the jump. Thanks for the tip, Michael!

[Source: YouTube via Examiner.com]

Continue reading Video: This is not how you make a Ferrari F150

Video: This is not how you make a Ferrari F150 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 31 Jan 2011 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>458458 italiaaccidentcrashf-150ferrariferrari 458 italiafordford f-150truckvideoMon, 31 Jan 2011 14:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19821288/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/01/31/video-this-is-not-how-you-make-a-ferrari-f150/19821288/article-detail.xml 19821288 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/01/ferrari-458-and-f-150_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/01/ferrari-458-and-f-150.jpg <![CDATA[Video: The very worst kind of lift-off close call]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/14/video-the-very-worst-kind-of-lift-off-close-call/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/14/video-the-very-worst-kind-of-lift-off-close-call/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/14/video-the-very-worst-kind-of-lift-off-close-call/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Truck falls off lift
Hmm, that doesn't seem centered anymore - Click above to watch video after the jump

Working with a car on a lift can be a dangerous if you don't understand what you are doing. Procedures have to be followed and safety is the name of the game. As one very lucky mechanic learned, even when something looks centered on a lift, it may not be safe.

Timing is, as we often hear, everything in life. The guy in this video should feel pretty good that the other person came in to talk to him. Otherwise he might have been the meat in a Dodge Ram/Concrete floor sandwich. Slip off the jump to see why garage lifts require that you always stay alert when a vehicle is in the air. Thanks for the tip, IHateAirplanes!

[Source: Youtube]

Continue reading Video: The very worst kind of lift-off close call

Video: The very worst kind of lift-off close call originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 14 Oct 2010 19:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dodge ramgaragegarage liftheavy duty ramhydraulic liftliftmechanicramsafetysingle post lifttruckvideoThu, 14 Oct 2010 19:24:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19674084/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/10/14/video-the-very-worst-kind-of-lift-off-close-call/19674084/article-detail.xml 19674084 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/truck-on-lift-sg_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/truck-on-lift-sg.jpg <![CDATA[Chevy challenges Ford to HD towing contest, gets turned down]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/04/chevy-challenges-ford-to-hd-towing-contest-gets-turned-down/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/04/chevy-challenges-ford-to-hd-towing-contest-gets-turned-down/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/04/chevy-challenges-ford-to-hd-towing-contest-gets-turned-down/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,



Numbers like maximum horsepower, torque and tow ratings are the heart and soul of the full-size heavy duty pickup truck segment. No shocker there. But how much reliance can consumers actually put on figures provided by the manufacturer? And, keeping in mind that the average test drive doesn't include hooking up a ten-ton trailer, how might we all get a proper frame of reference when judging one massive diesel beast with another?

Such questions may soon get an answer... other than this one, decided upon just a few weeks back. It seems that General Motors has issued a pretty straightforward challenge to Ford: a towing duel up mountain grades, followed by a comparison of factory-issued exhaust brakes on the way back down. (Sorry, Ram... guess you're not invited out to play.) Seems simple enough, no?

Here are some relevant statistics: Ford's (reflashed) 6.7-liter Power Stroke diesel V8 engine punishes the tarmac with an even 400 horsepower and 800 pound-feet of torque. That's class-leading, as GM's 6.6-liter Duramax pumps out 397 horses and 765 pound-feet. Looking at those numbers, Ford wins... right?

Not so fast, says Chevrolet Silverado Marketing Manager Tony Truelove, "Numbers on paper are fine," he said. "Let's go work these trucks in the mountains, and may the best truck win." To which Ford Trucks spokeswoman Anne Marie Gattari replied, "We challenge our trucks against the competition in grueling prove-out tests continually, and the customer gives us the results - sales leadership year after year."

That's right, The Blue Oval plainly and unsurprisingly declined Chevrolet's invitation. But the show must go on, and our friends at Pickuptrucks.com promise to be on hand in their very best black-and-white-striped shirts to serve as referees for the main event. Let's get ready to rumble!


Gallery: PickupTrucks.com Heavy-Duty shootout 2010


[Source: PickupTrucks.com]

Chevy challenges Ford to HD towing contest, gets turned down originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 04 Oct 2010 08:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chevroletchevrolet silverado dieselchevrolet silverado hdfordFord Super Dutyford super duty dieselFord Super Duty pickupsford super-dutyHD pickupHD truckhd trucksHeavy Dutyheavy duty dieselheavy duty pickupheavy duty truckspickupSuper Dutysuper duty dieseltruckMon, 04 Oct 2010 08:27:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19655857/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/10/04/chevy-challenges-ford-to-hd-towing-contest-gets-turned-down/19655857/article-detail.xml 19655857 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/hd-truck-faceoff_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/hd-truck-faceoff.jpg <![CDATA[New Volvo has 13-liter engine, 500 horsepower]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/19/new-volvo-has-13-liter-engine-500-horsepower/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/19/new-volvo-has-13-liter-engine-500-horsepower/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/19/new-volvo-has-13-liter-engine-500-horsepower/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Volvo FMX - Click above for high-res image gallery

No, we didn't miss a decimal point. Volvo (well, Volvo Trucks, to be more precise) has just pulled one very big sheet off of a new heavy-duty construction truck called the FMX. The leviathan bears a host of features designed to help it excel on the manufacturing and construction sites of Europe, including impressive ground clearance, substantial skid plates and one badpush-bar. Of course, there's also that impressive engine.

Volvo will let you equip your very own FMX with either an 11-liter powerplant capable of anywhere between 330 and 450 horsepower or a 13-liter lump with 380-500 horsepower depending on configuration. The larger of the two engines produces around 1,800 lb-ft of torque - more than both the 2011 Ford Super Duty and 2011 Chevrolet Duramax combined.

The FMX also comes with i-Shift - unique gearbox programming that senses the truck's load, then adjusts gear ratios accordingly to climb or descend hills. It will also let you rock the vehicle back and forth to get free of sticky mud or loose sand.

Yes, Volvo says the FMX is built to boost the company's presence in the construction market, but we're thinking those three- millimeter-thick bumpers would stand up well in your run-of-the mill post-apocalyptic scenario. Zombies, militias, recession-induced governmental collapse - the FMX could handle it all. Hit the jump for the press release.


Gallery: Volvo FMX


[Source: Volvo Trucks]

Continue reading New Volvo has 13-liter engine, 500 horsepower

New Volvo has 13-liter engine, 500 horsepower originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 19 Apr 2010 18:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Constructionconstruction equipmentconstruction vehicleConstructionEquipmentConstructionVehicleFMXTruckVolvoVolvo FMXvolvo trucksVolvoFmxVolvoTrucksWork TruckWorkTruckMon, 19 Apr 2010 18:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19445311/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/04/19/new-volvo-has-13-liter-engine-500-horsepower/19445311/article-detail.xml 19445311 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/04/01-fmx-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/04/01-fmx-630.jpg <![CDATA[Report: GM may euthanize Chevy Colorado/GMC Canyon small pickups]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/24/report-gm-may-euthanize-chevy-colorado-gmc-canyon-small-pickups/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/24/report-gm-may-euthanize-chevy-colorado-gmc-canyon-small-pickups/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/24/report-gm-may-euthanize-chevy-colorado-gmc-canyon-small-pickups/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2010 Chevrolet Colorado - Click above for high-res image gallery

The future of the small pickup truck market in the United States doesn't look good. A new global Ford Ranger is in the works, though we have good reason to doubt that will replace the model currently available in North America. For its part, Chrysler has plans to nix the Dodge Dakota next year, and new reports suggest that the Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon twins may have their plugs pulled, as well.

In speaking with General Motors vice chairmain Bob Lutz, PickupTrucks.com asked about plans to kill off the two models, with Lutz responding, "It's uncertain at this point...They may well [go away]."

GM has not announced any official plans to update or kill off the Colorado and Canyon, but we won't be surprised if these two dated models meet that Great Car Crusher in the sky over the next couple of years.


Gallery: 2010 Chevrolet Colorado


[Source: PickupTrucks.com]

Report: GM may euthanize Chevy Colorado/GMC Canyon small pickups originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 24 Feb 2010 17:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>canyonchevroletchevrolet coloradoChevroletColoradocoloradogeneral motorsGeneralMotorsgmGMCgmc canyonGmcCanyonPickuppickup truckPickupTrucktruckWed, 24 Feb 2010 17:20:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19371547/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/02/24/report-gm-may-euthanize-chevy-colorado-gmc-canyon-small-pickups/19371547/article-detail.xml 19371547 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/2010chevroletcoloradoopt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/2010chevroletcoloradoopt.jpg <![CDATA[Video: Leaping SEMA truck proves the meek and well engineered shall inherit the earth]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/01/27/video-leaping-sema-truck-proves-the-meek-and-well-engineered-sh/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/01/27/video-leaping-sema-truck-proves-the-meek-and-well-engineered-sh/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/01/27/video-leaping-sema-truck-proves-the-meek-and-well-engineered-sh/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

This doesn't end well - click above to watch the video

Oh dear. See that big bad truck up above? It's about to jump over some dirt. The landing is not going to go well. How not well? According to our sources you are looking at $350,000 worth of truck. We're not modified truck experts, but we'd be willing to guess that the truck is worth substantially less than $350,000 after said jump. Speaking of jumps, you should make our jump to watch the video and then read the world's quickest technical break down of exactly what went wrong. Tip of the desert flap hat to Brad!

Continue reading Video: Leaping SEMA truck proves the meek and well engineered shall inherit the earth

Video: Leaping SEMA truck proves the meek and well engineered shall inherit the earth originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 27 Jan 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>FailOff RoadOffRoadSEMASEMA FailSEMA TruckSemaFailSemaTruckTruckWed, 27 Jan 2010 19:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19333683/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/01/27/video-leaping-sema-truck-proves-the-meek-and-well-engineered-sh/19333683/article-detail.xml 19333683 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/01/oyvey_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/01/oyvey.jpg <![CDATA[Hummer grinds gears: production of 2010 H3 and H3T resumes]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/11/hummer-grinds-gears-production-of-2010-h3-and-h3t-resumes/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/11/hummer-grinds-gears-production-of-2010-h3-and-h3t-resumes/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/11/hummer-grinds-gears-production-of-2010-h3-and-h3t-resumes/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


2010 Hummer H3 - Click above for high-res image gallery

Although the Hummer sale isn't officially official - which is to say, the Chinese authorities haven't told Tengzhong "Proceed!" - it is official enough that GM has restarted production of the 2010 H3 and H3T at its Shreveport, LA plant. General Motors didn't want to be stuck with dead models, so it closed the Hummer spigot while its side of the deal with Tengzhong was finalized. By the beginning of this month, though, the bottom of the inventory barrel was starting to peek through, with just 1,183 units on hand.

Even though Hummer sales are down more than 50 percent, nevertheless people are still buying, and the company's two H3 models are obviously the most popular. According to Automotive News, a Hummer spokesman reports that the 2010s should be arriving in dealerships in December - and as we reported earlier, you may even find them in two new colors and with biofuel capability.


Gallery: 2010 Hummer H3 and H3T


[Source: Automotive News, sub. req'd]

Hummer grinds gears: production of 2010 H3 and H3T resumes originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 11 Nov 2009 14:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 h32010 h3t2010 hummer2010 hummer h32010 hummer h3t2010H32010H3t2010Hummer2010HummerH32010HummerH3th3tmanufacturingplantssuvtruckWed, 11 Nov 2009 14:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19231198/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/11/11/hummer-grinds-gears-production-of-2010-h3-and-h3t-resumes/19231198/article-detail.xml 19231198 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/11/2010-hummer-h3_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/11/2010-hummer-h3.jpg <![CDATA[The Tony Fox "Proud American" and "Bonneville Boss" Rocket Truck]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/08/the-tony-fox-proud-american-and-bonneville-boss-rocket-truck/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/08/the-tony-fox-proud-american-and-bonneville-boss-rocket-truck/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/08/the-tony-fox-proud-american-and-bonneville-boss-rocket-truck/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

The Proud American and Bonneville Boss - Click above for high-res image gallery

Before our favorite weekly Southern California car gathering this Saturday, we had been told by a friend that he'd be bringing his new rocket truck. Rocket truck? What the heck's a rocket truck? Visions of rocket-powered pickups and semis running the quarter mile immediately came to mind. Did some drag racer sell Tom his race truck? Is that what he was bringing to the show?

As soon as we came around the corner we knew he hadn't. We knew this with absolute certainty because we saw a giant nosecone towering above the treeline. There was, in fact, a rocket-powered land speed record (LSR) car positioned at a launch-worthy angle atop a most amazing truck. Rocket, truck... Rocket truck. Makes sense now. But what was this thing and where did it come from? You can read the whole wacky story after the jump.


Gallery: Tony Fox "Proud American" and "Bonneville Boss"


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

Continue reading The Tony Fox "Proud American" and "Bonneville Boss" Rocket Truck

The Tony Fox "Proud American" and "Bonneville Boss" Rocket Truck originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 08 Nov 2009 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BonnevilleBonneville Bossbonneville salt flatsbonneville speed recordbonneville speed weekBonnevilleBossBonnevilleSaltFlatsBonnevilleSpeedRecordBonnevilleSpeedWeekcars and coffeecars coffeeCarsAndCoffeeCarsCoffeecustom truckCustomTruckDean MoonDeanMoonhaulerhydrogen peroxideHydrogenPeroxideKy MichaelsonKyMichaelsonland speed recordland speed record carLandSpeedRecordLandSpeedRecordCarLSRLSR carLsrCarProud AmericanProudAmericanrocket carRocketCarTony FoxTonyFoxtransporttruckSun, 08 Nov 2009 19:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19227683/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/11/08/the-tony-fox-proud-american-and-bonneville-boss-rocket-truck/19227683/article-detail.xml 19227683 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/11/proudamericanbonnevilleboss---00_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/11/proudamericanbonnevilleboss---00.jpg -1 2